Columbia Valley Pioneer, January 5, 2023

Shuswap Band

Columbia River in over 82 years and represents Shuswap Band’s commitment to salmon reintroduction.

We completed renovations in our community hall, allowing us to host awesome events for our members, including regalia and ribbon skirt/shirt making, salve making, meat cutting, bingo, a school district engagement meeting, and plenty more. Our youth danced in the Alpine World Junior Championship opening ceremony, showing Shuswap pride in beautiful regalia.

We worked hard to improve community infrastructure through road paving, water pump improvements, home renovations, and green energy installations. We continue to be one of 55 Bands across Canada with full financial management system certification. We introduced a community-designed logo, representing Mount Nelson, the Columbia River, sweetgrass, and salmon.

Shuswap Band administration had another exciting year of growth and success across all departments.

This included welcoming several new staff in health, territorial stewardship, finance, public works, education, and the creation of a new department – culture and heritage – to better serve our membership.

We held our first ceremonial salmon release in March, which included Ktunaxa and Okanagan members. This marks the first time sockeye have been in the

Shuswap Band elections welcomed Richard Martin to Council. We thank Tim Eugene for his service, Kukstsemc! Our National Indigenous Peoples’ Day, District of Invermere Friendship Ceremony, and Salmonfest events were attended by membership and the local community as a whole; thank you all for participating. We hope to see you at future events.

Have a wonderful holiday season. We look forward to more great work in 2023!

District of Invermere

Programs, events, return

Submitted by Cortney Pitts, leisure services manager

or scaled back. (But) the return of events was not a gradual recovery, they came back faster than a freight train!

Facilities went back to full capacity and Invermere and the surrounding areas made a comeback with the return of annual programs, events and festivals. This brought some sort of normalcy back into our lives and I am happy to say 2022 brought us more highs and then lows!

As the District of Invermere’s leisure services manager I am fully dedicated to providing plenty of fun events and programming for our residents and visitors. This doesn’t start or end with my role. It is the involvement from the community that really pulls everything together. This truly is such an incredible community and I am so proud to be part of it!

Over the last two years, events were completely cancelled, held online,

Every year our community proudly offers a rich variety of special events, tournaments, races, festivals as well as many other recreational and cultural activities for all ages. If you are new to town… welcome! You will soon find out how many events our little town actually produces in a year and yes, it is quite impressive!

Thank you to all of our dedicated volunteers that give their time and effort at our local programs & events. You deserve to know how much you are appreciated!

Wishing you all the very best for an enjoyable, healthy, and active holiday season! Looking forward to seeing you all at the Invermere Snowflake Festival on January 20th, 2023!

Submitted by Tess MacDougall Territorial Stewardship Project Coordinator

Shuswap Band members at the Sockeye salmon release and Salmon Chief ceremony for Councillor Mark Thomas. Photo by Jeremy Williams, River Voices Productions.

Village of Radium

Submitted by Mike Gray, mayor

2022 --what a year of change for the Village of Radium, with renewal in many areas of the village organization!

In October I was elected mayor and three new members – Erin Palashniuk, Christi Ferguson-Huston, and Carey Collin - joined incumbent councillor, Dale Shudra and me on village council.

Long-time mayor, Clara Reinhardt, and councillors, Todd Logan and Tyler McCauley, left council after years of service to the village.

There were several new hires and positions created, including a new chief administrative officer (CAO), Adrian Bergles, and new managers in the finance, corporate services, and public works departments.

Some outcomes of council’s and staff’s efforts in 2022 include: a new zoning bylaw to support growth in the village; a new sign bylaw business owners and a high quality of signage in the village; a bylaw amendment to allow food trucks and mobile vendors

on suitably-zoned private land and; adoption of an active transportation network plan about ongoing development of walking and cycling pathway infrastructure in the village.

2022 was the first summer for the village’s new splash park, and there was a creation of an accessible pathway network.

Events that shaped the year include: a fire at the Canfor mill in September: Thanks to the village fire department and mutual aid from other Columbia Valley departments who kept the village safe and; the Kicking Horse Canyon highway diversion which ensured a busy summer and fall on our village roads.

The village continues to fundraise toward development of a sheep overpass across Highway 93/95 south of Radium to support the threatened Radium-Stoddart herd. A link to donate can be found on the village website: https://radiumhotsprings.ca/saveour-sheep/

Village of Canal Flats

Submitted by Jean Strong, communications coordinator, Canal Flats

It has been a year of change for the Village of Canal Flats. A number of major projects were completed and the village is well positioned for 2023.

The village welcomed a new chief administrative officer, Richard Wayken. In June the arena got a new paved parking lot, funded through the Columbia Valley Recreation Service area. The Canal Flats Cruise In welcomed show-stopping trucks and cars, and many people, to the community.

In July the village opened the new multi-court, a

public space to play tennis, pickleball and basketball, on.

In August, Flats Fest, with 21 bands from across Canada, drew more than 1,000 people to the town to listen to live country music.

Phase two of the Shore-to-Shore pathway was completed this summer, giving residents bike access to Tilley Memorial Park. The pathway will eventually connect the Kootenay River to Columbia Lake. The village will be completing at least 250 m of paving on Phase 1 in the spring.

The fall brought more four new councillors and a new mayor, Mark Doherty. In November, a position for

MLA Clovechok is working on many issues including cost of living, protection of waters

Submitted by Doug Clovechok, MLA Columbia River-Revelstoke

As we reflect on this past year, I wish to thank each of you who took the time to contact myself and my offices. Together we worked to address your concerns and issues.

From a constituency perspective, access to healthcare continued to be one of the top issues. Over this past year I have met and worked with our health care providers to better understand the gaps in our rural Health Care system which range from transportation issues to the continuing fight for Intra-Provincial BC/Alberta care. I have been in contact with the Alberta Minister of Health who assured me that Alberta recognizes their responsibilities under the Canada Health Act and are willing, when space is available, to help provide care for our boarder communities as we provide the same for them.

The Kicking Horse Canyon project is an ongoing challenge and I want to thank everyone for their patience during the Highway 1 closures. I continue to work with MOTI, the RCMP, municipalities, highway contractors and others to address the issues that have resulted. The upside is that the project is close to being completed and it will become a huge asset for our region.

Throughout the year I have worked on wildlife management issues, continually advocating the government for science-based policies. Affordability, whether the price of gas, food, or a place to live, continues to falter under the current government as does the pandemic of mental health and addictions. We have offered the government many potential solutions, but none have been acted upon. In my role as a member of His Majesty’s Loyal Opposition, I will continue to fight for solutions that will make life better for the people of Columbia River-Revelstoke and I will hold the government to account.

As Shadow Minister for Columbia Basin Initiatives, I closely monitor the Columbia River Treaty negotiations with the United States – the protection of our waters is critical.

I am also very proud to continue in my role as a Caucus Officer in the position of Whip. It is my privilege to serve all of you and I wish you all the very best for the coming New Year and look forward to working with you on the great opportunities we have before us.

communications coordinator was created and new valley resident, Jean Strong, was hired.

The dog park was fenced this fall and will be ready in the new year, with the addition of a bench and other amenities.

Canal Flats Fire Rescue, did training in-house for the first time and began renovations on the fire hall.

On December 16, the village hosted an open house for the brand-new daycare facility which will provide care for 40 children in the community.

Bob Johnstone, Susan Clovechok, RDEK Area F director, Doug Clovechok, MLA, Columbia River-Revelstoke attended the Cherry Creek Falls Park anniversary celebration.

Photo submitted

Christmas Tr� Pick Up

Saturday, January 7, 2023

Have trees out front of your house early Saturday Morning

• All the money collected from this project helps support the Canadian Cystic Fibrosis Foundation

• Any donations are gratefully accepted

• Trees will be disposed of in an environmentally friendly manner

Sponsored by the Kinsmen Club of Windermere Valley

HAPPY HOLIDAYS from the Kinsmen Club and their families!

Regional District East Kooteney

Susan Clovechok, Area F director

2022 has been another dynamic year for Area F. While I can’t fit everything into this article, I do want to share a few highlights.

Housing has been a focus across the valley this year. I have been working alongside the CV community economic development office; the CV chamber; stakeholders; First Nations and; levels of government through the newly-formed Columbia Valley Housing Society to explore options to address attainable housing in our valley. It is a complex issue and we will continue our efforts in 2023.

With the escalation of construction costs, the Cold Spring Creek debris flow mitigation project design is being modified to fit within the budget. The construction tender is expected to be released in February, with construction next year.

The Columbia Valley directors continue to work with BC Transit on an expansion of the Columbia Valley transit service that will improve access to the service and ridership while balancing costs. New signage is being erected and routes are always being evaluated. We are hoping to see a modified service expansion considered for 2023.

The short term rentals project is moving into the implementation phase and staff will be working to develop regulatory framework and implement temporary use permits for STRs.

After a two-year planning process, the Columbia Lake management plan was adopted in June. Thank you to everyone who contributed throughout the process and shared their vision for the future of the lake.

Merry Christmas to all and may 2023 bring us all much light and joy.

Rob Gay, RDEK board chair

Here are a few RDEK highlights from 2022: Our engineering team continues to work on the Cold Spring Creek debris flow mitigation project. In environmental services, we are working to establish a transfer station and Recycle BC Depot in Radium. Our staff continue to do a tremendous job at our arena and on our parks and trails. In development services, our short-term rentals project will be shifting into implementation in 2023.

Our EK emergency management program and Regional Emergency Operations Centre activated in support of a number of emergencies this year, including several wildfires. Our East Kootenay FireSmart program continues to grow and we commend all residents and community champions who’ve adopted FireSmart principles and worked to make their homes, properties and neighbourhoods more resilient to wildfire. Learn more at: engage.rdek.bc.ca/firesmart.

Earlier this year, long-time Columbia Valley Rural Fire & Rescue Chief, Jim Miller, retired. Drew Sinclair is our new chief, and is joined by deputy chief, Jon Tames, and assistant deputy, Joss Advocaat. We want to extend our appreciation to all of our firefighters for your dedication to our communities. Thank you!

In October, local elections were held and over 50 per cent of our board is made up of new directors. This spring we will hold a strategic priorities planning session to establish our priorities for the coming onetwo years.

On behalf of the board and staff, the very best to you and yours and all the best for the year ahead.

Notice is hereby given by Fairmont Hot Springs Utilities Ltd. that an application has been made to the Comptroller of Water Rights for a Certificate of Public Convenience and Necessity for the proposed construction and operation of a waterworks distribution system to serve the following land:

Civic Address: 5086 Hot Springs Road

Legal Description: Lot 54, District Lot 46, Kootenay District Plan 8377

Parcel ID: 013-506-994

Any person wishing further information in connection with this application should apply directly to

Fairmont Hot Springs Utilities Ltd. 5225 Fairmont Hot Springs Road, Fairmont Hot Springs, B.C. V0B 1L1

Any objections to this application are to be forwarded to the Secretary to the Comptroller of Water Rights, Ministry of Forests, Lands & Natural Resource Operations, PO Box 9340 Stn Prov Govt, Victoria BC V8W 9M1, chris.mcmillan@gov. bc.ca and should be received on or before:

February 6th, 2023

Fairmont Hot Springs Utilities Ltd.

Roberta Schnider, Area G director

One of the biggest changes in 2022 was the retirement of long-time Area G director, Gerry Wilkie, and my election as Area G director in October. Thank you, Gerry, for your tremendous service. I am both honoured and excited to represent Area G.

The Edgewater redevelopment planning committee has been working hard to look at opportunities and possibilities for the future development of the post office, former Credit Union property and the vacant lots that are kitty-corner to Pip’s Country Store. The committee will continue its work in 2023 and we encourage residents to participate in the process.

Congratulations to Area G Volunteers of the Year: Sue and Tom Hoyne. They have made such an incredible impact in Wilmer (and beyond) with their volunteerism.

From communities like Wilmer who’ve achieved national FireSmart designations to others like Edgewater who are just beginning their FireSmart initiatives, it is great to see so many individuals, neighbourhoods and communities in Area G stepping up to proactively increase their resilience to wildfire. I encourage everyone in Area G to get involved. To learn more visit engage.rdek.bc.ca/firesmart.

One of my commitments as your Area G director is to meet regularly with my constituents and keep open lines of communication so that we can work together to continue to make the Columbia Valley a better place to live. I look forward to these community conversations and encourage you to reach out at any time.

Wishing you all the best for the holiday season and for the year ahead.

Columbia Valley CommunityEconomic Development Office

Submitted by Pete Bourke

The Columbia Valley Community Economic Development Office (CVCEDO) is a service of the Regional District of East Kootenay (RDEK) and receives input and recommendations from the CVCEDO Advisory Commission, comprised of up to 15 members.

Most recently the commission completed a three-year strategic plan which will shape our focus through to 2025. Some key areas within this are: Our integrated priorities which guide our intentions, actions and deliverables: Columbia Valley Sustainability – Supporting locally delivered services and products; produced, consumed, imported to and exported from the valley. Environmental Sustainability – Promoting environmentally sustainable practices, in line with Canada’s commitment to net zero emissions by 2050. Local Indigenous communities – Respecting the deep relationship Indigenous Peoples and communities have with the land and resources, recognizing the important historical and contemporary presence.

Our three strategic areas of focus: 1. Workforce development and resident attraction; 2. Communication and community awareness; 3. Investment and growth in local businesses.

Woven throughout the new plan we will continue to work with our local partners on things such as the CV events strategy, HR roundtables, market managers meetings, way-finding signage and enrollment in the BC entrepreneur immigration program. We also played a significant role in the formation of the Columbia Valley Housing Society and the soon-to-be launched Work In Columbia Valley initiative.

To stay connected on things that we are up to, visit our website, www.investcolumbiavalley.ca, and follow us on social media (Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, and Twitter), or email our CVCEDO Pete Bourke at cvced@rdek.bc.ca.

Wildsight Invermere

Submitted by Baiba Morrow

As the long-standing environmental group of the Columbia Valley, Wildsight Invermere continues to focus on public education, engagement, and advocacy so that biodiversity and wildlife can thrive all around us.

In 2022, our Fire and Ice program offered an ambitious series of events that explored the climate impacts of wildfires and melting glaciers. We went out into our forests to better understand our connectivity, forest management, and the age-old wisdom of First Nations; we hiked to the toe of a glacier with a mountain hydrology expert; and we investigated the sources of Invermere’s drinking water. After all, ice, water, and life are all connected. As part of our Wild Connections program, we celebrated BC Rivers Day on the Columbia and International Mountain Day in the pub. Our volunteers came out to pull weeds at Ray Brydon Park along with the East Kootenay invasive species council. Our electric car share program with a zippy Chevy Bolt (outfitted with a ski and bike rack) continues to give residents a low carbon transportation alternative (check out gospark. ca). Our annual fundraiser, the ninth Wild & Scenic Film Festival on November 19 was a resounding success. Wildsight Invermere has existed as a small, non-profit society for 33 years because of the passion and commitment of our community. We thank you all, including our members, volunteers, generous donors, and funders.

Kootenay Conservation Program reflects on its Columbia Valley roots

Submitted by Kootenay Conservation Program

The Kootenay Conservation Program (KCP) celebrated its 20th anniversary this year! It was right here in the Columbia Valley that 20 years ago, concerned residents and organizations recognized the value of working in partnership for private land conservation. In response, the East Kootenay Conservation Program (EKCP) was started. Eight years later, in 2008, the EKCP worked in partnership with the Regional District of East Kootenay (RDEK) to create the Columbia Valley Local Conservation Fund (CVLCF), a tax-based fund dedicated to local conservation projects and the first of its kind in Canada. The success of EKCP piqued the interest of organizations in the west Kootenay, and it wasn’t long before ‘east met west’; KCP took on a Kootenay-wide focus in 2012 as a partnership of organizations working to conserve healthy, functioning ecosystems in both the east and west Kootenays. The passion and dedication of Columbia Valley residents created this successful model! In 2022, KCP continued to co-deliver the CVLCF with the RDEK, which awarded funding to nine conservation projects directly benefiting the Columbia Valley’s natural ecosystems and wild spaces. In 2022, KCP also continued to coordinate Kootenay Connect in the Columbia Valley, the four-year federally funded conservation initiative focused on protecting species at risk in four focal areas in the Kootenays, one being the internationally-recognized Columbia Wetlands. Together we’re taking care of our natural landscapes and Kootenay way of life! Warmest wishes and all the best for a happy, healthy holiday season from the KCP Team.

Columbia Valley Chamber of Commerce: a busy year

Submitted by Pete Bourke, Executive director, CV Chamber of Commerce

The Columbia Valley Chamber of Commerce (CVCC) had a year of strong returns to many of our favorite chamber things to do. There were signature events such as our business best ball golf tournament, and the business excellence awards. Those events are some of our key fundraising initiatives that support our chamber operation. We were able to continue with our shop local programs, both in the spring and now to again finish the year. Our goal is that these shop local programs will generate over one million dollars in purchases this year!

At our annual general meeting (AGM) in March we welcomed in some amazing new board members. We also saw the planned transition of our president seat, with Cris Leonard now at the helm and Dee Conklin as our past president.

We remained active throughout on the provincial stage with the BC chamber and with our close-knit network of 20, Kootenay-Boundary chambers. We continue working with our amazing partners, including Tourism Radium who we work with on many initiatives, and with our contracted work for the CV Community Economic Development office, a service of the Regional District of East Kootenay RDEK. Some major projects that are largely an outcome of these collaborations and are launching at the end of this year are the CV Housing Society and the Work in CV initiative.

All of this is possible through our amazing members and fabulous team, both past and present. Visit our website (www.cvchamber.ca) and reach out if there is anything we can do to support you.

Mountain water scientist, Caroline Aubrey-Wake told folks on the Fire and Ice hike to Farnham Glacier on August 5 about how melting glaciers and a changing climate will impact our water resources in the future. Photo submitted

Forester, Randy Harris, talked about tree rings during the Wildsight Invermere forestry walk at Lake Enid. Photo submitted

Living Lakes Canada: Committed to protecting Columbia Valley water

Living Lakes Canada is the nationally-respected water stewardship NGO that was founded right here in the Columbia Valley. In addition to our B.C. and Canada-wide projects, we remain committed to protecting the water here at home through local programs. The Columbia Valley is particularly vulnerable to the impacts of climate change given that our source water begins with the region’s glaciers and snowpack, both of which are projected to continue to decline in coming years.

The Columbia Valley is one of three pilot areas in our large-scale water monitoring project that aims to track climate impacts on the Columbia Basin’s water supply. In 2022, we formed local reference groups and consulted with First Nations to better understand local priorities and concerns around water. The feedback helped inform the selection of monitoring sites, and 11 hydrometric stations, 3 lake level loggers and 2 climate stations were installed in the fall.

We hosted hydrometric trainings in Invermere and Canal Flats, and co-hosted a LakeKeepers workshop with the BC Lake Stewardship Society at Premier Lake.

Our monitoring of groundwater levels in the Columbia Valley continued in 2022 using volunteer observation wells donated by private landowners including the villages of Radium and Canal Flats. And we continued to collaborate with the Columbia Wetlands Stewardship Partners on water monitoring and wetlands restoration in the Columbia Wetlands.

Submitted by Tourism Radium

Tourism Radium has been actively marketing, supporting operators, and working with stakeholders in the village all year round. Here’s what we’ve been up to over the last 12 months! In January, Tourism Radium hosted the ‘Nordic Ski for Free’ program for accommodators to drive direct bookings through the winter by giving visitors a choice of passes to two great ski areas: Nipika Mountain Resort or the Lake Windermere Whiteway. Come February, Tourism Radium supported the grassroots Save the Sheep campaign by producing new entranceway signage for the Village of Radium, reminding motorists to Slow Your Roll, Save the Sheep!

In March, Tourism Radium represented stakeholders

Lake Windermere Ambassadors: a successful year

2022 marked another successful year for the Lake Windermere Ambassadors’ water monitoring and community outreach programs. Programming included community-based water monitoring, training citizen science volunteers, community clean ups, community presentations, free educational children’s summer camps, a BC Rivers Day celebration, farmers market participation, and boat launch education booths.

In addition to this yearly programming, we were able to offer Green Shores for Homes training to 17 individuals in the community. The training introduced participants to basic shoreline ecosystem principals and shoreline management practices, emphasizing how homeowners can apply the Green Shores for Homes approach to protect their properties from erosion, while benefitting healthy shoreline habitat.

Thanks to concerned members of the community who came together; we were also able to begin a recreational carrying capacity study on Lake Windermere. The study aims to understand recreation impacts on Lake Windermere’s aquatic ecosystems and focuses on water quality, ecologically significant habitats, drinking water intakes, and aquatic life. The study will result in comprehensive mapping of preferred areas for recreation and zones of sensitivity, to make recommendations on the quantity or density of vessels a particular area can safely support without harming habitat or people. The study will highlight areas of concern prone to sediment disturbance, shoreline erosion, sensitive habitats such as kokanee and burbot spawning and rearing areas, water intakes, and significant habitat for trout, native mussels, and waterfowl.

If you would like to support us and the work we do, please become a member or donate at www.lakeambassadors.ca

Tourism Radium

at the first tradeshow in three years, the Calgary Outdoor Show. Business owners and community members enjoyed roundtable networking at the annual general meeting (AGM) in April, before the Tourism Radium team was busy hosting travel writers and media in May.

The Market & Music on Main was back for the last weekend in June, accompanied by the late July Street Party featuring The Hip Replacements. In August, Tourism Radium worked to capture photo and video assets for marketing. Tourism Radium was happy to welcome new staff members in September, along with celebrating the return of the Columbia Valley Classics Car Show & Shine. In November, the Tourism Radium team was busy with strategic planning and the ‘Hot Springs on Us’

Amanda Nason Associate Publisher/ Sales

Steve Hubrecht Magazine Editor/ Reporter Ext. 105

Chadd Cawson Local Journalism Initiative Reporter Ext. 106

Emily Rawbon Graphic Design Ext. 104

The Columbia Valley Pioneer is available free of charge at 13 essential businesses in the Upper Columbia Valley, limited to one copy per reader. This publication has been made possible, in part, by the Government of Canada and the support of our advertisers and is published every Thursday. The Columbia Valley Pioneer may be distributed only by its authorized contractors and employees. No person may, without the prior written consent of The Pioneer or its Publisher, take more than one copy of each issue of The Pioneer. The content is protected by copyright. Reproduction by any means is prohibited except with the permission of the Publisher.

Christina Boucher Office Administrator Ext. 101

Joanne McQuarrie Editor Ext. 107

An important water source for several uses, Delphine Creek was one of the sites selected for monitoring by Living Lakes Canada in 2022. MacHydro Photo

Submitted by Nicole Trigg, Communications director, Living Lakes Canada

Submitted by Amy Baxter, program coordinator

Staff with the Lake Windermere Ambassadors do a lot of field work. Photos submitted

program for accommodators before December’s business networking opportunities and festive holiday events.

A couple of hikers checked out a great view of Radium Hot Springs. Photo by Kootenay Rockies Tourism/Mitch Winton

Windermere Valley Minor Hockey

Submitted by Gregg Walker, president

In 2022, minor hockey was back in full swing in the Columbia Valley. There were teams at every age level in our association, and the number of participants was up from previous years. All of the teams had busy seasons, had fun, and worked hard. The U13 B team won the banner in their division within the East Kootenays. The U13 A team were Tier 4 provincial champions, and they also won the Fair Play award at the Championship Tournament. Many thanks to the volunteer board, coaches, managers, players, and others who made the WVMHA in 2022!

A U7 player with Windermere Valley Minor Hockey headed out to the ice in a recent game. Photo submitted.

Kinsmen Club of Windermere Valley

Looking back at 2022, we had a successful Christmas tree pickup in Invermere in January, our annual fundraiser for the Canadian Cystic Fibrosis Foundation.

Last January saw the annual fishing derby see its largest participation yet! We had 193 paid entrants and they helped us raise a bunch of money for the valley - and it was also a lot of fun for the kids and adults, too.

The drive-thru registration was a big hit. We are always looking for donations of prizes for this family event; reach out if you would like to donate.

Our next big event, perhaps the biggest, is the Kinsmen Canada Day Fireworks which takes place on the evening of June 30 as it becomes July 1. This event was great last year after a couple years hiatus, but it was a spectacular show once again.

Our club’s major fundraising this past few years has come from our partnership in picking up bottles and cans from the Invermere Transfer station and from Akiskinook Resort. Thank you all for your donations, it really adds up. We could always use an extra truck or two for pickup and returning the collected and sorted bottles.

Our group sits at 11 members, with three potentials and we are always looking for more men who would like to help serve our community. We have operated at low numbers for many years, yet we keep operating at a strong level.

The club accepts e-transfers for Kinsmen Canada Day Fireworks at invermerefireworks@gmail.com. To join the club or check it out, reach out via email or social media - general donations are always accepted at kinsmenwv@gmail.com

Oakes added, “Contact us on our Facebook page for more information about our events, or our club: @kinsmenclubofwindermerevalley. And thank you for being a part of our community.”

Invermere Health Care Auxiliary Society

generosity and commitment to community

Submitted by Madelene Lange, IHCAS secretary

The Invermere Health Care Auxiliary Society is a registered charitable organization with over 140 volunteers, who are dedicated to raising funds for the improvement and enhancement of health care in the Columbia Valley.

The Thrift Store operates seven days a week, (four of which are ‘behind the scenes’) with 20,000 hours of volunteer time.

Since 1977, the Thrift Store started recycling, reusing and re-purposing donated goods. Over the years, the Society has raised hundreds of thousands of dollars for equipment and patient comfort in the Columbia Valley. The Thrift Store depends on the generous donations of new and gently used goods from the community, but due to space, we cannot accept larger items.

Donations to the community in 2022 have totalled $245,932.00. This includes $70,204 to Qualified Recipients (Community Donations), $18,000 in Scholarships and $157,728 to the Hospital and EKFH for hospital equipment in Cranbrook, Invermere, Golden and Canal Flats). Since 2001, the donations total is $2,661,609!

Donation times have remained Wednesday and Thursday 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Shopping hours are Thursday 10-4 p.m., and Friday and Saturday 10-2 p.m. Come in and shop for some incredible bargains!

The Thrift Store can provide these incredible services to the Columbia Valley residents through our volunteers. Without them, we would simply cease to exist. The volunteers, members and people in our community who are generously donating all the goods that we are selling, really make a difference.

The Invermere Health Care Auxiliary Society would like to extend a BIG THANKYOU to all in the community who donate so generously!

Summit Youth Hub

This past year has been a year of tremendous growth and community building. Our calendar year for 2021 saw 2693 youth visits. This year has already seen 3850 by the start of December. These numbers do not include all our in-school programming or community events.

Not only have we grown in numbers, but we have also grown in the number of programs we offer. We offer drop-in in Invermere and Edgewater, the mobile youth Hub, LGBTQ+ programming, in-school programming and more. We are currently developing an after-hours referral line for youth to access when they need someone to talk to.

A major project this year was our creativity collective. This project brought community professionals to teach their creative outlets in the schools. From there, youth were able to submit their creative works to Youth Roots magazine; over 1000 copies were distributed through the valley.

Most importantly, we provided youth with opportunities to grow into their best selves through our programming and connections with various community organizations. We may primarily serve youth, but youth are our community’s future, and we are helping to shape them into amazing individuals that are proud, contributing members of our community. After all, it has been said, and remains true, ‘It takes a community to raise a child’. Further to that though, is that it takes youth who have been provided the best opportunities to grow, to have a healthy, flourishing community.

Summit Youth Hub staff and visitors enjoyed a festive gathering. had a get together in festive clothing.

Submitted by the Kinsmen Club

One of the biggest events the Kinsmen Club of Windermere hosts each year is the Kinsmen Canada Day Fireworks event on the evening of June 30.

Photo by Bram Rossman

Submitted by Alison Bortolon, Executive Director, Summit Youth Hub

Summit Youth Hub staff had a get-together in Christmasy attire. Photo submitted

Photo submitted

OUT OF OFFICE… New opportunities in 2023

The Basin Business Advisors have three new education courses. The first two are part of the agriculture education series, and the third is useful data science tips and analysis for any business.

Raising Livestock in the Columbia Basin

In a shifting regulatory environment, there are expanded options for primary meat producers to process their animals and gain entry into the meat industry. Get an overview of these options and discuss what model might work best for your farming operation. This Webinar is 60 minutes on January 17, 2023 at 8 p.m.

Succession Planning for Farms: Planning for the Next Generation

Growers are increasingly wondering who will take the reigns as the current generation of food producers move toward retirement. Numerous support, planning, and matching services are available to growers who want to make a plan for the future of their farms. Get an overview of these options and chart a course to build and implement your success plan. This is a 60 minute webinar on January 26 at 11 a.m.

Becoming a Data Scientist: Analysis for everyone

Sometimes intuition and guesswork don’t make the grade in times that are fast

changing and beyond our control. Using your own financial data to help make decisions is achievable. When should you pursue that new market or hire that new employee? Is it time to look for an investor or make that big capital purchase? Data-driven decisionmaking is a foundational part of running your business successfully. This webinar is 90 minutes on January 19 at 12 p.m.

You can register for these sessions at: https://bbaprogram.ca/

The New Year is a great time to learn, expand and grow! There are always professional development opportunities on our Professional Development Calendar: cvchamber.ca/chamber-events-professionaldevelopment/

WHAT’S HAPPENING? cvevents.ca

POWERED BY THE COLUMBIA VALLEY CHAMBER

ursday, January 5

• 9- 11:30 a.m.: StrongStart/ CAP-C at Edgewater Elementary

• 10-11:30 a.m.: Free Parent and Tot Connect for kids 0-6 at the Early Years Center; 926 7th Avenue, Invermere.

• 10:15 a.m.-1 p.m.: Tech Tutor at the Invermere Public Library (free computer, tablet, phone support drop-in).

• 10:30 a.m.: Rhyme Time at Radium Public Library. Children 0-2, register: wvcoordinator@cbal.org

• 10:30-11:30 a.m.: Seniors Fitness at Columbia Valley Centre. $2 Drop In.

• 12 p.m.: Seniors Lunch at the Invermere Legion, $5 every second Thursday.

• 2 p.m.: Needles and Hooks – bring your craft project to the Invermere Public Library to work on it with other fellow crafters.

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

• 2-4 p.m.: Tech Tutor at the Radium Public Library (free computer, tablet, phone support drop-in)

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

• 3:30 p.m.: Thursday Fundays at the Invermere Public Library. STEAM and Crafternoons on alternating weeks.

• 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, January 6

● 7:30 p.m.: Columbia Valley Rockies vs. Fernie Ghostriders

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

• 9:15-11:45 a.m.: StrongStart at Eileen Madson Primary School.

• 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. 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.

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

Saturday, January 7

● Christmas Tree Pickup – have your tree on the curb Friday night for the Kinsmen club to pick up Saturday Morning.

● 7 p.m. – Rockies vs the Creston Valley Thundercats

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

• 10:30 a.m.: Pokemon Club at Main Street Fun and Games. Reading pro ciency required, ages 7+.

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

Sunday, January 8

• 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, January 9

• 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.

• 9-11 a.m.: StrongStart/ CAPC at Martin Morigeau Elementary School.

• 9:15-11:45 a.m.: StrongStart/ CAPC at Eileen Madson Primary.

scan me!

• 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+ & Allies Drop-In & Hangout: Youth Centre Hub.

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

Tuesday, January 10

● 7 p.m.: 19+ Games Night at Ullr.

• 9 a.m.: StrongStart/ CAPC at Edgewater Elementary

• 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.

• 1- 3:30 p.m.: Afternoon events for artists at the Radium Public Library. Weekly get-together for budding artists. Sketch, paint, knit, carve crochet, or anything else. Bring your own supplies.

• 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, January 11

• 9:15 a.m.: StrongStart/ CAPC: Windermere Elementary every 2nd & 4th Wednesday.

• 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.

• 1:30-4 p.m.: StrongStart/ CAPC: Every 1st & 3rd Wednesday at Eileen Madson Primary

• 12-8 p.m.: 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.

• 3:45 p.m.: Teen Library Drop-in at the Invermere Public Library.

• 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.

• 8 p.m.: Live Music: James Rose and Friends at Ullr.

Groundswell Community Gardens and Greenhouse

Growing food sustainability in the valley

Hard working green-thumbed volunteers and staff kept the gardens growing food for local markets, throughout the pandemic. Sabrina Boileau, greenhouse manager in 2022, introduced a new way of growing tomatoes that quadrupled output.

Our partnership with CBT and Invermere Home Hardware increased food production and created 16 gardening programs. The JA Laird Elementary School gardening program, helped students learn to grow food and donate it to the food bank. Garden workshops taught methods to grow more food using sustainable methods, resulting in more fresh produce on our local tables. Groundswell Market Garden and caommunity bed renters contributed produce to the food bank, the food box program and the Agrimarket food coupon program.

rescue program saves bears and contributes apples to the food bank.

Given the rising cost of groceries, we need to be creative. You can contribute to producing more local food by visiting our website – www.groundswellnetwork.ca/ foodsustainability.

Groundswell’s mandate is to provide food sustainability education. This year our valley was cut off by fires, floods and avalanches, emphasizing how extremely vulnerable we are.

Groundswell partnered with the Invermere Library on a Seeds 101 workshop, contributing seeds to their new seed library, which are available for anyone wishing to grow edibles. The seed library is a heritage seed storage, and a critical factor in food sustainability.

Groundswell veggie bedding plants aided local gardeners in a strong start, despite the cold spring. Our market gardens added to the valley’s fresh produce. The apple

Columbia Valley Community Foundation

Submitted by the Columbia Valley Community Foundation

It has been a record setting year for the Columbia Valley Community Foundation!

In May, the foundation approved the distribution of an all-time high $118,400 in student awards. While this record resulted from the accumulation of unused funds in the COVID years, the foundation expects to grant at robust levels going forward; the scholarship endowment grew by $470,000 in June, with the final settlement of Arnold Ellis’ bequest.

June also saw the creation of the foundation’s largest named fund to date— the Jim and Gaetane Ashworth Community Fund. This fund will support a wide variety of projects through the community grants program, beginning in 2023.

On July 31, the foundation supported the third #BrettBrettBaltacBoatConcert. The audience enjoyed another amazing performance from Brett Kissel on a magical summer evening - calm and nearly smoke-free! Our sincerest thanks to W. Brett Wilson and friends who organize the concert and fund all event costs. A very big thank you to all the attendees that showed their appreciation by donating to the community in return. The 2022 concert garnered a record $136,000 in donations and pledges. These funds will be distributed alongside the foundation’s annual community grants to a wide variety of organizations in late 2022 and early 2023.

Our 2022 Vital Signs project is now nearly complete— follow the foundation’s social media for details of the official launch in January 2023.

Our deep gratitude to all our partners and supporters - we are proud to work with you to build a thriving community in this beautiful valley. Happy holidays from the board and management of the Columbia Valley Community Foundation!

HERE TO SERVE YOU

Submitted by the Groundswell Community Greenhouse and Gardens

JA Laird students planned their garden with Laura McKinnon, greenhouse manager. Photo submitted

Students in the area learn about food sustainability in a greenhouse in town. Photo submitted

Country music star, Brett Kissel performed at a 2022 concert.

Photo by Thiloma Hofer

Al-Anon Are you concerned about or affec ted by someone else’s drinking? If so, please join us on a “ZOOM” meeting ever y Monday at 7 p m For more information or to speak with someone from our fellowship, please call 250-342-8392

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 250342-2424 for more information or to speak with someone from our fellowship.

Valley Fitness Societ y AGM

6 p m Januar y 26th at the Invermere Inn and Suites B oardroom. B oth Communit y and VFC members welcome Please RSVP to teresa@valleytnesscentre.ca

Big Cheers to Cor winn and Cam from Universal D oor for installing a new Sensor and Controls for our aging Garage D oor. You were ver y competent and professional with your installation and you made a senior citizen ver y happy. Happy New Year.

Cheers to all the special ladies ( Tammy, Norma, Judy) who work in the deli depar tment of Sobey's You give rst class ser vice and always with a smile Your kindness is ver y much appreciated. Happy New Year!

Cheers to all who donated to the Wilmer reworks includingThe Station Pub, K5 Mechanical, Kootenay Insurance Ser vices, Rocky R iver Grill, Konig Meats, Lamber t- Kipp Pharmac y, John Cook and an anonymous donor

Cheers to Pat Allen for treating me to lunch today I had a lovely time and enjoyed our visit You are a special lady, I am grateful to have you as my friend Cheers to Rosanna and Shane for rescuing me and helping to shovel my driveway.

Cheers to the new clock, it's about time!

• Phone: 250-341-6299

• Email: info@columbiavalleypioneer.com

• Web: www.columbiavalleypioneer.com

Cheers to Keith W You helped me shovel so that I could get in and out of my driveway I don’t know what I would do without you. You are such a kind and generous person You are the best!

Cheers to Keri Jobe for bringing me the most beautiful Christmas ower arrangement and for shovelling my walkway What a lovely friend you are Cheers to my neighbour Dan for coming out to help me shovel my way out of the driveway after the plow went by and blocked me in on D ecember 25 You were a godsend! Cheers to you.

Cheers to the Pioneer for providing e -Editions! I love keeping up with the news from my hometown while I'm at universit y- how else would I stay updated with the town clock placement and pickleball negotiations?!

Cheers to Keith and Arnie for both of you coming to the rescue of a senior citizen on a cold, winter y day Keith you were able to get my furnace working properly and Arnie you ordered a par t for my garage door so that it would open when I pressed the remote control. First class ser vice from t wo nice gentlemen Happy New Year

Here’s to Jerr y and James best Christmas present E VER!

Lots of loving Cheers to all the yummy donations that were made to the Invermere Ambulance Station over the holiday season Your treats were ver y much appreciated Wishing you a safe and happy new year!

Triple Cheers to the C V Christmas Bureau for the wonder ful work you do!

Cheers to Robyn and Shona at Potter y Playground for opening a fun and welcoming space for all ages to create with clay I have had a wonder ful time at your classes and will continue to use studio space Bravo to a great new business Bravo to you for creating it.

ACREAGES FOR SALE

2 5 to 3 4 acre parcels

Great mountain views, privac y, individual wells, no building time commitment Located on sunny side of the Valley

For more information contac t Elkhorn Ranches 250-342-1268 w w w elkhornranches com

BUSINESS SERVICES

B B 's Home & Design Ser vices

Renovation's, Masonr y & Handyman Ser vices, Blinds & Install Cabinchecks/yard care/eavestrough cleaning/junk removal/dump runs

Call 250-688-2897

Fur ther position details can be found at: https://w w w.sd6.bc.ca/careers

If you are interested and qualified for this position, please submit a cover letter, resume, and two professional references: hr@sd6.bc.ca

Wanted 2 F/T Restaurant Cooks, Rocky R iver Grill, 8888 Arrow Road, Invermere, B C Permanent, F/T shifts, over time, weekends, days and evenings, $16/hour for 40 hours per week O ver 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

THE HEARTFELT COMPANION: Services for Seniors

Since 2014 we’ve provided kind and compassionate non-medical care, transportation to Cranbrook, overnight care, meal prep, grocery shopping and more. Excellent local references. 250-341-5683 Heartfeltcompanionservices.com

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Hospice Society of the Columbia Valley

Submitted by Barb Gagatek

The Hospice Society of the Columbia Valley is about the living!

The Society supports: Those living with a life-limiting diagnosis and their families who are anticipating the death; those living with bereavement including grief due to suicide and traumatic death; children and their families living with loss through death, divorce, or deployment.

A registered clinical councillor is now available for complicated and traumatic grief.

Lake Windermere District Rod and Gun Club

Submitted by Peter Von Niessen

In 2022 the Lake Windermere Rod and Gun Club was awarded the Roderick Haig Conservation Award for the work done to Able Creek for salmon spawning. This project was spearheaded by Ben Mitchell-Banks and Richard Hoar.

We partnered with Columbia Wetlands Stewardship Partners (CWSP). To continue the turtle basking log project and in late spring volunteers helped place a dozen basking logs in-between Spillimacheen and Brisco.

In May, the club also attended the Wings over the Rockies, and children’s festival this year informing the public of some of the ongoing projects like the turtle basking logs at Dorothy Lake and the Ben Able Creek.

Family fish day in June had a huge turn out at Lake Lillian, where members were able to share their love of fishing with the general public.

This summer we had several successful shotgun shoots and an archery shoot at the Radium Range and continued with weekly archery nights and Sunday practice shoots. In July we hosted the BCWF KIDZ Camp where the kids assembled pre-cut bluebird and duck nesting boxes that were donated to the Nature Trust of B.C who installed them south of Invermere, in the Columbia Valley wetlands.

We partnered with the Western Bat Conservation Society to construct a bat condo that will house four to five thousand bats in the Wetlands near Parson, B.C. Bob Walker led the way on behalf of the club with many volunteers helping to get as much completed on the condo before winter set in.

Ice huts are out at Lake Windermere and Lake Lillian for club use and it is looking like a great season of fishing!

All volunteers who work with clients are specially trained to work with individuals or lead a group through their bereavement journey. This past year, volunteers gave 2000 hours and were able to positively impact the lives of 116 clients!

The new NAVCARE program links people who have life-limiting illnesses with the services that are available in the valley. Often, they just need the visit of a compassionate Hospice volunteer who connects them to services such as Interior Health, Heartfelt Companions, Family Dynamix and the Caregiver Network, etc.

This year, dedicated Hospice volunteers raised funds to provide FREE programs through the following events:

Recharge your Summer raffle; Art Auction; Leo Grillmair movie night; Hike for Hospice; Fashion Show and; Tree of Lights.

The Hospice Society of the Columbia Valley relies on the generosity of our community, our visitors to the community, our part-time residents, local Businesses and yearly sponsors.

If you or anyone you know is grieving, experiencing loss or needs the services available through the NAVCARE program, please call us (778-526-5143) or visit us.

Our door is open to everyone weekdays 12 – 4 p.m.!

• Designer Kitchen

• Large Master Suite with Walk-In Closet and Ensuite

• 3 Bedrooms

• Computer Bay

• 2 1/2 Bathrooms

• Second Floor Laundry

• Deck with Amazing Views

• 2 Car Garage

• 1441-1458 sq.ft. Two Storey

MOVE-IN READY!

If you prefer, choose your colours and finishes. Call today for more details and to book a personal visit. 250-688-1247

By fax to: 250-342-2934

By email to: corporateser vices@invermere.net

From: 9 a m Januar y 17th, 2023 (MT ) To: 4 p m Januar y 27th, 2023 (MT ) Excluding sta tutor y holidays and weekends Originals of faxed or emailed nomination documents must be received by the Chief Elec tion O fficer by 4:30 pm on Februar y 3rd, 2023

Interested persons can obtain information on the requirements and procedures for making nominations including nomination forms at the Distric t of Invermere beginning December 19th, 2022 during regular office hours (8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., Monday through Friday) to the close of the nomination period. Please note that the Municipal office will be closed for the week of December 26th – December 30th and will be re- opening Januar y 2nd, 2023.

QUALIFIC ATIONS FOR OFFICE

A person is qualified to be nominated, elec ted, and to hold office as a member of local government if they meet the following criteria:

• Canadian citizen;

• 18 years of age or older on general voting day March 4, 2023;

• resident of British Columbia for at least 6 months immediately before the day nomination papers are filed and

• not disqualified under the Local Government Ac t or any other enac tment from voting in an elec tion in British Columbia or being nominated for, being elec ted to or holding the office, or be other wise disqualified by law

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PERIOD

A great year for Wings Over the Rockies

Submitted by Ross MacDonald

2022 was remarkable year for Wings Over the Rockies. From May 9 to 15, Wings celebrated nature with its first face-to-face festival since 2019. This highly successful week had 100 expert-led outings and presentations spread from Golden to Canal Flats. Highlights of the 25th Wings festival included a gala dinner and keynote presentation by conservationist and photographer Dr. Harvie Locke. There was a sold-out music performance by The Wardens band; a Kids Fest, organized by Mainstreet Fun and Games and; a photo contest.

In October, the Columbia Chamber of Commerce recognized Wings with the Sustainable Business Practices Award. Capping off the year, in November, the Canadian Museum of Nature recognized Wings’ cofounder Larry Halverson with a Lifetime Achievement Award.

Learn about the plans for Wings 2023 at www.wingsovertherockies.org.

Submitted by Susan Malone, ICAN volunteer

This year, ICAN’s 15th anniversary was another busy year for our animal rescue. Shelter, food, socialization and the veterinary needs of animals in our care, including spay/neuter surgeries and vaccinations, are provided. And of course, the love and affection given to those waiting to be adopted, whether they are with us for a few days, weeks or months, is never ending.

Over 100 rescued and owner-surrendered cats in need of homes, ranging from very young kittens to very elderly seniors, were assisted this year. We will begin 2023 with cats and kittens already with us, waiting to be adopted. At the same time new ones will be arriving to take the place of those we helped in 2022.

It takes a community to run an animal rescue shelter and without ICAN’s dedicated volunteers, we would not be able to operate. You can become a member for $10 a year! If you have time, please volunteer! We are always needing cleaners, bottle sorters, kitty cuddlers, foster homes and much more. Please visit our website to fill out a volunteer or membership form, or phone 250-341-7888 for information.

We cannot do what we do without everyone who assists ICAN in so many ways throughout the year. To our devoted volunteers, the Invermere Veterinary Hospital, donors, and all those who have opened their hearts and homes to help us help over 2,000 companion animals since 2007, we thank you for your support.

Toby Creek Nordic Ski Club

Submitted by Dallas Husar

2022 was another fantastic year for the Toby Creek Nordic Ski Club (TCNSC). We teamed up with Nipika and Panorama Nordic to offer the tri-area pass, allowing members to enjoy the trails on the Whiteway, Lake Lillian, Nipika and Panorama. This year saw the return of in-person events. The Banff Mountain Film Festival world tour returned and the Whiteway Challenge saw participants enjoying the Whiteway, Nipika and Panorama trails to cover as much distance as they could. In collaboration with Panorama, the first annual candlelight ski saw roughly 150 people enjoy any evening of nordic along the Toby Creek. Nipika also hosted a club favourite event, learn to ski, for members. We also announced the return of our annual Loppet for early 2023.

TCNSC is extremely proud of our youth programming. Our younger participants had fun learning new skills and skiing with friends. Our older skiers hit the race scene, including Western Canadian Championships and the Alberta Cup. Several of our athletes earned spots at the BC Winter Games. We are so proud of all our Creekers - they show up week after week to train and have fun! We are also grateful to all the volunteer coaches who make this program what it is.

The 21/22 season also saw the successful launch of adult programming. There was a class for every skier, from beginners to advanced, offering an opportunity to improve skills while having fun with like-minded people.

We look forward to a fantastic 2022/23 season! www.tobycreeknordic.ca

The Regional District of East Kootenay (RDEK) Board of Directors is considering an amendment to the Lake Windermere Official Community Plan Bylaw No. 2929, 2019. Bylaw No. 3188 is cited as “Regional District of East Kootenay – Lake Windermere Official Community No. 2929, 2019 – Amendment Bylaw No. 9, 2022 (Miscellaneous / RDEK).” This bylaw amendment proposes to update the shoreline development permit areas to reflect the most current data available. Development permit processes and requirements are not changing substantially with this amendment. The overall development permit area would be reduced from 55% of the shoreline to 49%.

The amendment will also remove the policies related to requiring an agrologist report for all Agricultural Land Commission applications. The Board issued a blanket exemption from these reports in 2020 and therefore these policies are obsolete

A public hearing will be held via Zoom webinar conference: Wednesday, January 11, 2023 at 6:00 pm. The Board has delegated the holding of these hearings to the Directors for Electoral Area F and G. If you believe that your interest in property is affected by the proposed Bylaw, you may prior to the hearing:

• inspect the Bylaw and supporting information by requesting that an information package be emailed to you by contacting kgilbert@rdek.bc.ca. Information packages may be requested up until Monday, January 9, 2023 at 4:30pm;

• mail or email written submissions to the addresses shown below before Monday, January 9, 2023 at 4:30 pm;

• present verbal submissions at the public hearing.

You must pre-register in order to attend and provide verbal presentations or make comments at the hearing. The deadline to register is: Monday, January 9, 2023 at 4:30 pm. Register in advance for this webinar: https://us02web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_2s6en0xPSQqYiJ4LYIX0DA or by visiting the Public Hearings and Meetings page on the RDEK website

Please note that a question and answer period will not occur during the Zoom webinar conference. You must address any questions relating to the bylaw to the Planner prior to the above date.

SUBMISSIONS CANNOT BE ACCEPTED AFTER THE PUBLIC HEARING.

All submissions will form part of the public record and will be published in a meeting agenda posted online. Personal contact information such as phone and email will be removed from written submissions. Questions about the disclosure of your personal information may be referred to the Corporate Officer at 250-489-2791 or 1-888-478-7335. This notice is not an interpretation of the Bylaw. For more information, contact Krista Gilbert, Planner at 250-489-0314 or toll free at 1-888-478-7335 or email kgilbert@rdek.bc.ca.

TO PRE-REGISTER visit the Meetings page on rdek.bc.ca and choose Public Hearings & Meetings

The Regional District of East Kootenay (RDEK) Board of Directors is considering an amendment to the Steamboat – Jubilee Mountain Official Community Plan Bylaw No. 3022, 2021. Bylaw No. 3084 is cited as “Regional District of East Kootenay – Steamboat – Jubilee Mountain Official Community No. 3022, 2021 – Amendment Bylaw No. 1, 2022 (Miscellaneous Amendment / RDEK).” This bylaw amendment proposes to include an exemption to the Environmentally Sensitive Area Development Permit guidelines that will allow RDEK staff to conduct a site visit to the applicant’s property to determine whether an environmentally sensitive area exists on the property. If identifying the presence or absence is beyond the expertise of RDEK staff, a Qualified Environmental Professional may conduct a site visit to determine if the environmentally sensitive area is present on the parcel A public hearing will be held via Zoom webinar conference: Wednesday, January 11, 2023 at 6:00 pm. The Board has delegated the holding of these hearings to the Directors for Electoral Area F and G. If you believe that your interest in property is affected by the proposed Bylaw, you may prior to the hearing:

• inspect the Bylaw and supporting information by requesting that an information package be emailed to you by contacting kgilbert@rdek.bc.ca. Information packages may be requested up until Monday, January 9, 2023 at 4:30pm;

• mail or email written submissions to the addresses shown below before Monday, January 9, 2023 at 4:30 pm;

• present verbal submissions at the public hearing.

You must pre-register in order to attend and provide verbal presentations or make comments at the hearing. The deadline to register is: Monday, January 9, 2023 at 4:30 pm. Register in advance for this webinar: https://us02web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_2s6en0xPSQqYiJ4LYIX0DA or by visiting the Public Hearings and Meetings page on the RDEK website Please note that a question and answer period will not occur during the Zoom webinar conference. You must address any questions relating to the bylaw to the Planner prior to the above date.

SUBMISSIONS CANNOT BE ACCEPTED AFTER THE PUBLIC HEARING.

All submissions will form part of the public record and will be published in a meeting agenda posted online. Personal contact information such as phone and email will be removed from written submissions. Questions about the disclosure of your personal information may be referred to the Corporate Officer at 250-489-2791 or 1-888-478-7335. This notice is not an interpretation of the Bylaw. For more information, contact Krista Gilbert, Planner at 250-489-0314 or toll free at 1-888-478-7335 or email kgilbert@rdek.bc.ca.

TO PRE-REGISTER

Our Board meets each month and all meetings are open to the public. Board Meetings will be the second Friday of the month and start at 9:00 am in the Board Room at the RDEK office in Cranbrook. The Thursday immediately before the Board Meeting, we hold Committee Meetings. The Committees make recommendations to the Board and these meetings are also open to the public. Agendas can be viewed a week prior to the Board Meeting on our website www.rdek.bc.ca

PUBLIC HEARING NOTICE – BYLAW 3084 – Bylaw Amendment – Steamboat/Jubilee Mountain

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 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

Recycling questions?

BC RECYCLING HOTLINE 604-732-9253 1-800-667-4321

Cycling without age 2022 wrap up

Submitted by Cycling Without Age Invermere

After an unseasonably cool spring, our Cycling Without Age program jumped into full swing this year. While still following required COVID 19 protocols, we were able to enjoy a full season of rides once again. Whether cruising around town, a trip to the beach, or the popular stops for a beverage or treat, big smiles were the norm.

Generous donations from the Invermere Health Care Auxiliary and the Rotary Club of Invermere enabled us to complete our transition to a fleet of three updated and improved trishaws that will serve us well for many years to come.

Thanks to Lakeside Bike Co. for enthusiastically maintaining the bikes, always with a welcoming smile, and to the District of Invermere for their continued support, and of course our awesome group of volunteers. Every day we are reminded of what a great community we are so fortunate to live in.

More volunteers are always welcome. If you can occasionally spare an hour or two for a fun and rewarding bike ride, we want to hear from

Hong Kong: Fragrant Harbour

By Jane Thurgood Sagal

I stop in Hong Kong, en route to Myanmar, for a few days and stay in a hotel on Kowloon Peninsula. Hong Kong’s name is derived from its Cantonese name, Heung Gong, which translates to ‘Fragrant Harbour’. Some speculate that Fragrant Harbour may have referred to the sweet and fragrant waters of the Pearl River, or the sweet smell of agarwood which is popular and used in making fragrances.

There are 262 islands that comprise Hong Kong – 20 with inhabitants. Housing a population of over seven million, Hong Kong is divided into three areas: Kowloon Peninsula, Hong Kong Islands, and New Territories. 70 per cent of Hong Kong is open land with 70 square kilometres (seven per cent) devoted to residential purposes. Most residents live in a high-rise building.

DISTRICT OF INVERMERE

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Hong Kong is located on the eastern side of the Pearl River Delta, bordering Guangdong Province in the north and facing the South China Sea in the east, west, and south. Hong Kong was a dependent territory of the British from 1842 until the transfer of sovereignty to the People’s Republic of China in 1997. The airport, opened in 1998, is an island. To reach Kowloon Peninsula from the airport, we drive on the 2.2 km Tsing Fa Bridge, the longest bridge in the world.

NOTICE TO ALL DOG OWNERS

All dogs over the age of four months residing in the District of Invermere require an annual dog license, from January 1st to December 31st. Licensing allows Dog Control to contact you as soon as possible if your dog has been impounded or if the dog has been injured.

If you live within the District of Invermere and own a dog, please drop by the municipal o ce at your earliest convenience to purchase a dog tag. O ce hours are 8:30 a.m.- 4:30 p.m., Monday – Friday and payment can be made by cash, cheque, or debit.

UNSPAYED or UNNEUTERED DOG ................ $35

SPAYED or NEUTERED DOG ......................... $15

We encourage all pet owners to have their dogs spayed or neutered to assist in promoting the health of your animal and to minimize the potential for unwanted pups in the community. As an incentive to spay or neuter your dog, the various license and impound fees for spayed or neutered animals are less than if your animal is not spayed or neutered.

For dog control issues within the municipality, please contact our Dog Control O cer at 250-342-1707.

As we now know, plastic is not so fantastic. Up to a trillion plastic bags per year are used around the world. While most of them go to land ll sites where, scientists estimate, takes up to 1,000 years to break down, millions still end up in waterways, trees, and in our oceans where it eventually ends up in stomachs of sh and birds. We encourage you to use biodegradable dog waste bags, which are available at various sites throughout town.

A little over seven percent of the population owns a vehicle. There is no sales tax but there is a new car and registration tax that equals 70 per cent of the cost of a cheap car and 120 per cent of the cost of an expensive car! Feel free to pause here and gasp.

I board a ferry to cross Victoria Harbour from Tsim Sha Tsui to Central, the heart of Hong Kong’s financial district. A funicular railway (opened in 1888) takes me to Victoria Peak. It’s the most expensive, prestigious place to live in Hong Kong, at an altitude of 552 metres. For lunch at the Jumbo Floating Restaurant, which can hold 1,000 people, it’s dim sum – a veritable feast of pork steam buns, shrimp dumplings, noodles, pork fried rice, shrimp wonton, and egg rolls.

Following lunch, I stroll along the beach at Repulse Bay where a Buddhist temple materializes at the end of a long line of cafés facing the sea. After the stroll, I browse through Stanley Market, a typical example of a traditional open-air market in Hong Kong. Dinner in the evening includes lotus root, one of my favourite dishes.

On my last morning, I walk along the promenade by the sea. In the afternoon, I visit the Wong Tai Sin Temple, a colourful and noisy venue with aromatic incense wafting through the air, and locals shaking fortune telling sticks out of a small handheld tube. From here, I visit the temple near Chi Lin Nunnery. Unlike the previous temple, this temple is quiet with floating lily pads in ponds and it borders the tranquil Nan Lian Garden – a peaceful end to my brief stay in Fragrant Harbour.

Lisa Rohrick enjoyed one of many rides with her parents on a beautiful summer day. Photo submitted