Columbia Valley Pioneer, January 26, 2023

WINTERY AND WONDROUS...

The past week the Columbia Valley has seen plenty that’s snowy and fun, with the Snowflake Festival on Friday, Jan. 20, the annual Bonspiel on the Lake from Friday, Jan. 20 to Sunday, Jan. 22, and the B.C. section of Tyler McGregor’s amazing Sledge Skate of Hope on Monday, Jan. 23. See more on pages 2, 12, 13, 17, 19, and 22. Shown here: Kinsmen Beach (site of all three events), as seen beside (and as seen through) an ice sculpture created as part of the Snowflake Festival.

Photo by Steve Hubrecht

VALLEY VIEWS

(Top) A few bright lights is all it takes to get through January. These fireworks dazzled attendees at the Snowflake Festival on Friday, Jan. 20.

(Bottom) A quintessential Canadian mountain experience involves curling under the stars, at the Bonspiel on the Lake, and last weekend was great for it. The cold dry weather was perfect.

Photos by Ryan Watmough

Photos by Ryan Watmough

VALLEY NEWS

Big renovations begin at Radium Hot Springs

By Steve Hubrecht steve@columbiavalleypioneer.com

The federal government last week announced some big spending on the Radium Hot Springs pools.

The iconic pools were the subject of local grumbling (and a Pioneer news report) a month ago when officials reminded the public that entry fees for the pools would double beginning on January 1 this year.

At the time, Parks Canada chief operating officer for Canadian Rockies Hot Springs, Julian England, had explained that Parks Canada had so far, spent $15 million on upgrading the Radium pools, and that more renovations were on the way in the future.

That future, as it turns out, has arrived quite quickly, with the Canadian Ministry of Environment and Climate Change outlining on Wednesday, Jan. 18 that it will spend a further $13 million restoring the pools. When the Pioneer spoke with England again right after the announcement, contractors were already on site at the pools, beginning preparations for the work.

The money is meant to help Parks Canada conserve the heritage value of the pools, while improving visitor experience, England told the Pioneer

The upgrades that the money will go to include installing culverts under the main hot pools building (to prevent the foundation from eroding), new concrete work on the cool pool and on a new accessible lift.

“The building actually has a creek (Sinclair Creek) that runs right under it, as well as under the hot pools deck,” said England. “That’s been great for the last 70 years, but now the creek is starting to erode the building foundations. When it was built, there was no code in place for concrete structures like the building... We had to look at how to stop the erosion. The best way is contain the creek under the building into a culvert, so that it does not affect the foundation.”

The culvert has been pre-fabricated and the sections will be lowered down and then assembled under the building. Once in place, the culvert will change the water flow and dynamics of the creek, and by preventing erosion, will also help protect fish habitat along the creek, particularly where the water exits the building. There will also be some habitat improvements for rubber boas, a type of snake that is a species-at-risk, and which lives near the hot pools.

“They are a totally harmless snake and they do hang out, sometimes right on the pool decks, when it’s quiet,” said England.

Extensive repairs to the concrete in the cool pool will also be undertaken.

“It’s also showing its age,” said England, adding that corrosion from the hot mineral water is the main culprit and that additionally, the lining of the cool pool “is near the end of its life”.

Since the concrete is getting re-done, Parks Canada will take the opportunity to modernize the pool a bit. The water surface level will be raised so that is equal to the cool pool deck and a surface-level gutter system installed, eliminating the ‘lip’ of concrete that juts up from the current cool pool surface. Some kids love to literally hang on this lip, but levelling it off will make it far easier for lifeguards to do rescues, and for swimmers to enter and exit the pool.

“This will make the pool calmer,” noted England, since the walls formed by the lip bounce waves created by swimmers back into the pool.

“It’s perhaps not a big deal for many pool users, but it is a big deal for competitive

swimmers,” he said. “Surface level pools are known to be ‘quicker’ for swimmers (because of the lack of reflected waves). It will be interesting to see if the Columbia Valley Swim Club (the Otters) set some new record times.”

Parks Canada will also be replacing its current accessible lift (used by those with mobility challenges) “with a more modern, more effective lift,” added England.

The renovations mean the cool pool will be closed for about three months, starting on Jan. 30. The hot pool will be open through the upgrades, although England noted “there may be some construction noise”.

The upgrades haven been two years in planning and work is set to start immediately.

This image shows the pipes that will be used to divert the creek while construction takes place. (Inset) The creek flowing beneath the building where the new culvert will be constructed Photo submitted by Parks Canada

Upgrades will see cool pool closed for three months, but hot pool to remain open

The rear of building from the creek. Photos submitted by Parks Canada

RCMP Report

Released by: Cpl. Jeff Witzke

Columbia Valley RCMP Detachment

This past week, January 16 through to January 22, the Columbia Valley RCMP responded to 39 calls for service. The following is a summary of some of the files our officers responded to.

On January 19 the RCMP received a call from a person who fell victim to a crypto currency fraud. The victim believed the online company to be real and began depositing money upwards of $2000 per week. However, when they went to redeem their money, the company told them they would call back and the victim has never heard from them since. The victim suspects they lost over $15,000.

On January 17 a member of the Columbia Valley RCMP was conducting speed enforcement on Hwy 93/95 near Windermere when they initiated a traffic stop

for speeding. The vehicle sped up initially then slowed and began to pull over, however at the last second, turned around and sped off. The police officer did not pursue the vehicle as he was able to obtain the license plate and identified the registered owner, who can be charged for failing to stop for police.

On January 18 members of the Columbia Valley RCMP were conducting road safety road checks when they observed a vehicle almost rear end another vehicle as they approached the road check. Members identified the driver and formed suspicion that they were operating a motor vehicle with alcohol in their system. As such, the ASD (approved screening device) demand was read and the driver provided two failed readings, indicating he was above the legal limit. The driver was issued a 90-day provincial immediate driving prohibition and the vehicle was impounded for 30 days.

Columbia Valley Housing Society seeks program manager

By Steve Hubrecht steve@columbiavalleypioneer.com

The Columbia Valley Housing Society is looking to hire a program manager.

The nonprofit society was formed last summer as a joint effort by the Columbia Valley Chamber of Commerce, local elected officials and other community leaders, with the goal of dealing with some of the valley’s ongoing housing issues.

The Columbia Valley has for years, been troubled by a lack of affordable housing, a lack of stable long term rental housing, and a lack of seasonal rentals for tourism industry workers. These issues were already bad enough to begin with, but have become dramatically more acute over the past two years as housing prices exploded upwards in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic. Formal housing needs assessments in local municipalities conducted in 2021 and 2022 indicated a severe housing crunch in both Invermere and Radium Hot Springs. (The situation was not as dire in Canal Flats.)

Through the later part of 2021 and the early part of 2022, the chamber spearheaded efforts which eventually morphed into a plan to form a nonprofit society focussed specifically on increasing the valley’s resident-restricted and workforce housing. The society was officially incorporated last July and then set about electing a board of directors (which comprises president Kyla Lam, vice president Adrian Bergles, secretary Caitlin Hall-Sharp, treasurer Richard Haworth, and directors Gerry Taft, Jeff Martin, Ben Green and Lee Peet).

This past fall, the society was able to secure $30,000

in funding from the Economic Trust of the Southern Interior of British Columbia (ETSI-BC) to use toward hiring a program manager, subject to matching funds being contributed by local governments. Last week, the society presented before the Regional District of East Kootenay (RDEK)’s Columbia Valley Services Committee, seeking precisely those match funds. It requested a collective total of $25,000 in funding from the Columbia Valley’s three incorporated municipalities (Invermere, Radium and Canal Flats) and both its rural electoral areas (RDEK Area F and RDEK Area G).

Other committed funding or in-kind contributions so far total $25,000, and other as-yet unconfirmed funding possibilities add up to $15,000. All this amounts to total projected cost of $95,000 for the project manager: a one-year salary of $70,000; incremental staff expenses of $20,000; a $2,500 marketing and promotion budget (which would be mostly spent on community engagement and education); and $2,500 in travel expenses.

“To be able to take it to the next level, we need to start understanding what opportunities there are to work with each of the communities and what projects are coming down the road so that we can start obtaining some (housing) inventory,” chamber executive director, Pete Bourke, told the Pioneer. “Hiring a program manager will really accelerate our work in that regard going forward.”

When the Pioneer spoke with Bourke late last week about the position, it had just been posted, and there had not yet been any applicants. “But we do expect to see some solid interest for this role and are excited to see which applicants come forward,” said Bourke.

Vital Signs report aims to get the community working together, for the community

By Joanne McQuarrie editor@columbiavalleypioneer.com

The third Vital Signs report released by the Columbia Valley Community Foundation (CVCF) shows among the issues identified needing action, affordable housing is one of the most predominant.

With a theme of ‘Managing Growth - Challenges & Opportunities’, a meeting hosted by the CVCF on January 13 at the Columbia Valley Chamber of Commerce building, focused on conversations with residents, businesses, community organizations, government representatives and universities and colleges.

With 45 participants, “It was a really good meeting,” said Thiloma Hofer, CVCF executive director. “Overall we were pleased with the attendance and pleased with how people were engaged in the topics. It was a launch for the report and to get people know what the statistical facts are. (There’s) a lot of anecdotal (information) from the community. It was an opportunity to hear actual facts and figures.”

The report showed affordable housing is a key issue: 49 per cent of survey respondents spend more than 30 per cent of their monthly income on housing costs, “which is kind of the danger point; it’s a really high number”, Hofer said, and added, “That percentage is higher”, that the CVCF “didn’t get all of the underrepresented population counted” in the survey.

“If you are really struggling to make ends meet, you don’t have time to fill out surveys,” she pointed out.

As well, a press release indicated the study noted continued population growth is expected through part-time residents transitioning to permanent residents. Part-time residents transitioning to permanent residents belong to older age categories and will further increase the median age of… communities.

“We spoke about how our population is aging and what that means going forward. We’re growing rapidly; (there’s) stress on our infrastructure,” Hofer said. Food insecurity and healthcare access were also topics of discussion.

Hofer emphasized in the press release, “This year’s Vital Signs report demonstrates the importance of community knowledge and leadership in addressing the social challenges that the Columbia Valley faces. This groundup approach puts the needs of our community at the heart of how we build communities where everyone enjoys a good quality of life.”

Hofer said there will be upcoming community events where the CVCF will share information with folks, about the Vital Signs report. “We hope (the community) uses it to (see) what’s happening, and moving forward. It’s easy to read; we want people in the community to use it; our goal is to make it engaging and get people started. There are copies available at the Chamber of Commerce building, Invermere and Radium public libraries. Copies are available on CVCF’s website as well.

The Columbia Valley 2022 Vital Signs report is part of a global program that has engaged more than 100 communities in Canada and around the world to mobilize the power of community knowledge for greater local impact. Vital Signs is a national program led by community foundations and coordinated by Community Foundations of Canada (CFC); it leverages local knowledge to measure the vitality of communities and support action towards improving a collective quality of life. It’s the national network for over 200 community foundations in Canada.

CVCF has been bringing donors to the table as community builders since 2001. “Together we are building a vibrant and caring community where everyone is valued, contributes, and feels they belong,” the release reads. “Through the Vital Signs research and reports, we identify important local issues and ensure our donors are investing in programs that create lasting impact and change.

Budget in place for design of proposed hall

By Steve Hubrecht steve@columbiavalleypioneer.com

The past half decade or so has seen brand-new multi-million dollar community centres go up in both Invermere and Radium Hot Springs, and now Canal Flats has just taken the first ever-so-small step toward its own possible new civic centre.

The Columbia Valley Centre opened in Invermere in 2017. A year later, Radium Hot Springs inaugurated the Radium Hot Springs Centre. This left the Village of Canal Flats as the only incorporated municipality in the valley without a new community hall.

It now seems that may possibly change, although not any time soon. The project is not a certain bet and even if it does go ahead, it will be years before ground is broken, much less any ribbons cut. But a baby step taken in the direction of a new Canal Flats facility is still a step; earlier this month Canal Flats council unanimously agreed to include $50,000 in the village’s 2024 budget for architectural design of a new civic centre.

The move comes after Canal Flats residents voted in favour of hiring a professional to create designs and examine potential costs involved with a new community hall. The vote was a plebiscite held at the same time as the 2022 Canal Flats village election last October. The tally of the plebiscite was 177 voters (56 per cent) in favour of the idea, and 138 voters (44 per cent) opposed.

Canal Flats staff have emphasized that the plebiscite was non-binding and that it is council’s choice to go ahead with this project or to abandon it. By pushing the $50,000 to the 2024 budget, the project is now ‘on the books’ but will not affect the budget in 2023.

Vancouver-based architectural firm Urban Arts Architecture had previously — back in January 2021 —

given the Canal Flats council of the time, an expression of interest in doing a civic centre feasibility study. The quote the firm sent then was for $32,750 and included public consultation, architectural design and class C cost estimates.

The firm is already familiar with the Columbia Valley — Urban Arts Architecture designed the Radium Hot Springs Centre. That design later won a Wood WORKS! B.C. Community Recognition Award for its striking design and innovative use of wood, which included the province’s first dowel-laminated timber roof structure.

Canal Flats staff have pointed out that if the village has a ‘shelf-ready’ design, it will be easier to pursue any grants that could help fund some of the work. The costs of creating a new community hall would almost certainly far exceed any grant funding, however, and building such a centre would likely require a village referendum on borrowing money to fund its construction.

Canal Flats certainly has plenty of open space within the village boundaries, as shown in this view-from-above taken from atop Mount Sabine, should it decide to go ahead with a new civic centre. Photo by Ryan Watmough

PERSPECTIVE

Gino Odjick: a hero on and off the ice

By Joanne McQuarrie editor@columbiavalleypioneer.com

Gino Odjick was a hero to many people, on and off the ice. The well-loved and respected Odjick, who played 12 seasons in the National Hockey League (NHL), passed away from a heart attack on January 15, at the age of 52.

Odjick was known for his fighting skills on the ice, but when he retired from the NHL in 2002, he focused on being a positive role model for Indigenous youth. Odjick delivered workshops about bullying, effective communication skills, relationship building and goal setting ( Indspire, an Indigenous national charity that invests in the education of First Nations, Inuit and Metis Peoples for long term benefit of they, their families, communities and Canada).

Odjick was born on the Algonquin reserve of Kitigan Zibi outside of Maniwaki, Quebec on September 7, 1970 to Joe and Marie-Antoinette Marchand, the fourth of six offspring. When he was nine years old Odjick was sent to a residential school in Spanish, Ontario. He was given the registration number of 29, which he used later during his playing career.

Odjick, a 6’ 3” left winger, was known as an enforcer during his career with the Vancouver Canucks, New York Islanders, Philadelphia Flyers and Montreal Canadiens. That earned him the nickname, ‘Algonquin Assassin’ and ‘Maniwaki Mauler’ in reference to his heritage and his skills as a fighter.

His longest run was with the Canucks. Odjick was drafted for the team in the 1990 NHL entry draft. He played 17 games for the Canucks’ minor league affiliate before he joined the Canucks full time in 1990.

Odjick quickly became a fan favourite, with chants of ‘Gino, Gino!’ from the crowd as he played.

In 2014 Odjick revealed he had been diagnosed with the rare terminal disease, AL amyloidosis, a rare blood disorder. He was given only months to live and turned to experimental treatment; three years later his heart was working at 60 per cent capacity. (Wikipedia)

In 2020, in a statement (Vancouver Canucks Alumni/Twitter) Odjick said the disease had returned and he was receiving treatments.

Odjick was given the Inspire Award in 2015 in recognition of his career and years spent giving back to his community. He was formally inducted into the B.C. Sport Hall of Fame in 2020.

In March, 2020, Odjick gave an address on First Nations Night, held at Rogers Arena in Vancouver. Recorded on Youtube, Odjick said, in part, “I thank the Canucks and their entire organization for honouring Indigenous People this evening, where reconciliation starts with understanding, and understanding our songs, language, regalia and history is a good start. My work in Indigenous communities was not just about sports and athletics, but, more importantly, education. When you have an education you have the freedom to make choices. I encourage all of Canuck Nation to take the time to understand Indigenous People, educate themselves and join us in working toward a better future. This is true reconciliation.”

Historical Lens Historical Lens

is independently owned and operated, published weekly by Robert W. Doull, President and Publisher, Misko Publishing Limited Partnership. Box 868, #8, 1008 - 8th Ave., Invermere, B.C. V0A 1K0 Phone: 250-341-6299 | Toll Free (866) 496-8047 info@columbiavalleypioneer.com | www.columbiavalleypioneer.com

No need for motorized recreation trail between Alberta and Canal Flats reader says

Dear Editor;

Your piece on the proposed Alberta - Canal Flats motorized recreation trail was an interesting read.

What proponent, Tom Kramer, forgets to mention is that one can already walk from Alberta to B.C., or ride on horseback, or bike for that matter, and there really is no need for any such trail network for these users. He also does not seem to understand that hikers and ORV users are often mutually exclusive in their mountain pursuits. The quiet wilderness sought by hikers and horse riders is simply shattered by the roar of Razors, dirt bikes and 4x4s. It seems like he is just leveraging his motorized concept of ‘inclusive’ use as a tool to get approval for more motorized trail construction. He also forgets to mention that the jurisdictions he cites with ‘top-notch” trail systems (West Virginia, Ontario, Quebec) presumably have enforceable laws and realistic consequences for law breakers, plus resources to actually enforce infractions. ORV users stick to established trails or face hefty fines levied by a well-funded compliance and enforcement team backed by clear laws that are readily enforced. BC currently has none of this. Because of this reality, BC also has a sad, consistent track record of motorized users, both locals and visitors from Alberta, either ignoring the assorted voluntary guidelines we have in place, and the few legal closures that do exist until they just get rescinded to allow motorized access, or just ignored after the original hiking or horse trail is completely and utterly destroyed by uncontrolled, unregulated ORV use, then ultimately claimed as a ‘historical right’. Upper Spillimacheen, Brewer Creek, Maus Creek, Meachen Creek, AngusCreek, Cooper Lake, and basically the back

of every valley in the Kootenays have seen uncontrolled trail damage and ORV use right up into sensitive alpine meadows. Dirtbikes were encountered at the back of Sunken Creek last summer at Sunken Pass/Dibble Glacier, tearing up the historic five passes hiking route (and a critical wildlife movement corridor). Rokons, the slow, two-wheel drive, fat-tire motorbikes, are going everywhere, including up unroaded Diorite Creek trail near Skookumchuk, and up to the alpine ridges where few would believe motors could access. Snowbikes tearing up caribou closures, new dirt bike trails at Tata Creek in the critical ungulate winter range every year, quad trails into the East Side Columbia Lake critical ungulate winter range and into every single quiet pocket of the wildlife-rich Lost Dog area north of Kimberley; I’m sure this list could go on to fill the pages of the Pioneer. As evidenced by the ‘motorized blitzkrieg’ currently at play in our backcountry, responsible ORV users cannot manage their entire user group on their own, especially if they are only visiting a region infamous for its lack of rules. Until we have resources for enforcement, and clear legislation that can actually lead to realistic consequences for infractions, and until the motorized community as a whole acknowledges that there are some places in our shared wilderness, such as sensitive grasslands and alpine ecosystems that should remain quiet and not torn to shreds by hi-torque, heavily-lugged wheels, there is NO justification to sanction increased motorized use or access through our mountain corridors for ANY reason.

Ext. 102

The Columbia Valley Pioneer

Amanda Nason Associate Publisher/ Sales Manager

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

Dave Quinn, Kimberley, B.C.

Boy and man running tractor in the fields south of Mt. Swansea, east of Windermere. Circa 1950’s Courtesy of Windermere District Historical Society

REQUEST FOR QUALIFIC ATIONS

SMALL CIVIL WORKS CONTRAC TS FOR WATER AND SEWER UTILITY INFRASTRUC TURE (< $50,000)

RFQ Documents available from:

Kinbasket Water & Sewer Company Ltd Contac t: Jarret St John, Public Works Manager

E: public works@shuswapband ca T: 250-341-3678

All RFQ documents must be in the form provided. and received no later than 23 Februar y 2023.

Area resident, Joe Lucas, photographed amazingly-shaped ice crystals at the beginning January. “While the valley has seen warmer weather, the top of Swansea has stayed quite cold,” Lucas said in an email. “Cold enough to grow five to eight centimetre-long spikes of ice crystals that are a few millimetres thick. It was like all the trees had turned into porcupines. Fragile, not deadly.”

Citizen urges people to respect the Canadian flag

Dear Editor;

What is a national flag? On the surface, a national flag is just a piece of fabric; some have a series of colours and others have a series of colours with a symbol overlaid on them. But is that all a national flag is?

If one looks deeper, a national flag is a symbol that represents all of a nation’s principles and values. It is a symbol that allows citizens of the country to, by flying the flag, show their pride in their country.

When Canada first became a colony of Britain, the national flag was the Union Jack, the flag of the British commonwealth. The people of Canada proudly flew the Union Jack because they were proud of their country and their place within the commonwealth.

In 1965, Canada adopted a new national flag - the maple leaf - to proclaim its growth and maturation as an independent country. When the maple leaf flag was first raised over capital hill in Ottawa at 12 p.m. on February 15, 1965, Prime Minister Lester B. Pearson said, “May the land over which this new flag flies remain united in freedom and justice... sensitive, tolerant and compassionate towards all.”

What is the significance of the design of the maple leaf flag? What do the colours and the single maple leaf stand for? The red and white stripes are taken from the Canada General Service Medal, which was awarded to soldiers who served between 1866 and 1870. The maple leaf has been acknowledged as a symbol of Canadian identity since the beginning of the 19th century, but it became known worldwide as the emblem of Canada when it was used as the cap badge of the Canadian Expeditionary Force during the First World War.

A single maple leaf is carved on many of the headstones of the Canadian service men and women who gave their lives fighting for the democracy, rights and freedoms that we, as citizens of Canada, enjoy today. Freedom isn’t free.

Since the beginning of the COVID 19 pandemic, I have noticed that some folks have taken to flying our national flag upside down. I assume they believe they are making a statement against our government. I would like to say to them that if they don’t agree with the government’s policies and ethics, go out and vote for a government that is more aligned with their beliefs, go to Ottawa or Calgary or Vancouver or Invermere and join peaceful protests.

But don’t disrespect our national flag, our national symbol. It stands for everything that we as Canadians hold dear. Our flag stands for all of the rights and freedoms that Canadians enjoy today: the right to speak freely, the right to protest things that we oppose, the right to an education; if we are female, the right to go out in public with our face uncovered. There are places in this world that, should you disrespect the national flag by flying it upside down, you will be executed. Closer to home, try going south of the US/Canada border - the longest undefended border in the world - and try driving through the countryside flying the US flag upside down, and see where it gets you.

I would like to remind the folks who choose to disrespect our national symbol by flying it upside down, that they are making a far broader statement than just disagreeing with our current government’s policies and ethics. They are spitting on the very fabric of what it means to be a Canadian. Governments come and go, sometimes every four years (another right that Canadians enjoy - the right to elect a new government if we don’t like the old one.) If they don’t like the life they enjoy in Canada, perhaps they should move to Iran or Afghanistan maybe...just saying.

Rick Dendy, a proud Canadian Edgewater, B.C.

Box 159, 8866 Grainger Rd , Canal Flats, B C V0B 1B0 Phone: 250-349-5462 • Fax: 250-349-5460 • village@c analflats c a

REQUEST FOR QUOTE TREE REMOVAL

The Village of Canal Flats is preparing for a dike upgrade along the shore of the Kootenay River Dike regulations requires that trees and shrubs be removed along the dike berm slopes to a distance of 2m away from the toe of berm Per the Tree Removal Plan, the projec t requires that all trees and shrubs be removed on the existing dike slopes up to and including the 2m berm toe buffer Tree stumps to be left in place The approximate length along the berm to be cleared of trees is 1,300m Tree size varies between 50mm to 400mm caliper All larger caliber trees (300 mm and above) shall be bucked (16” lengths) and stock piled

The works must be completed by March 15, 2023.

Please send proposal and qualifications to Richard Wayken, CAO cao@canalflats ca or the address below by 4 p m MT, Januar y 31, 2023

Richard Wayken, CAO

Village of Canal Flats

PO Box 159, 8866 Grainger Road Canal Flats, BC V0B 1B0 250-349-5462

Additional information is available at the Village office upon request

V0A 1K0

PUBLIC NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN AS FOLLOWS: NOTICE OF ADVANCE VOTING

ADVANCE VOTING DATES AND LOCATION

ADVANCE VOTING will be held as follows:

Wednesday, February 22nd, 2023

Between 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. -and-

Thursday, March 2nd, 2023

Between 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

Location Address

District of Invermere O ce 914 – 8th Avenue, Invermere, BC

ELECTOR REGISTRATION

You may register at the time of voting by completing the application form available at the voting place and making a declaration that you meet the requirements to be registered as set out below:

RESIDENT ELECTORS:

To register as a resident elector you must:

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

• be a Canadian citizen;

• be a resident of British Columbia for at least 6 months immediately before the day of registration (at time of voting);

• be a resident of the [municipality or electoral area] on the day of registration (at time of voting); and

• not be disquali ed under the Local Government Act or any other enactment from voting in an election or assent voting and not otherwise disquali ed by law.

NON-RESIDENT PROPERTY ELECTORS:

To register as a non-resident property elector you must:

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

• be a Canadian citizen;

• be a resident of British Columbia for at least 6 months immediately before the day of registration (at time of voting);

• be a registered owner of real property in the [municipality or electoral area] for at least 30 days immediately before the day of registration (at time of voting);

• not be entitled to register as a resident elector; and

• not be disquali ed under the Local Government Act or any other enactment from voting in an election or assent voting and not otherwise disquali ed by law.

In addition, for non-resident property electors:

• The only persons who are registered owners of the property, either as joint tenants or tenants in common, are individuals who are not holding the property in trust for a corporation or another trust.

• If more than one individual is registered owner of the property, only one of those individuals may, with the written consent of the majority of the individual owners, register as a non-resident property elector.

In addition, in order to register at time of voting:

Resident electors must produce 2 pieces of identi cation (at least one with a signature). Picture

identi cation is not necessary. The identi cation must prove both residency and identity.

Non-resident property electors must produce 2 pieces of identi cation (at least one with a signature) to prove identity, proof that they are entitled to register in relation to the property, and, if there is more than one owner of the property, written consent from the majority of the property owners.

TYPES OF DOCUMENTS THAT WILL BE ACCEPTED AS IDENTIFICATION

You must produce at least two (2) documents that provide evidence of your identity and place of residence, at least one (1) of which must contain your signature. The following classes of documents will be accepted:

a) a Driver’s Licence; b) an Identi cation Card such as i. a photo BC services card; ii. a non-photo BC services card; c) an Owner’s Certi cate of Insurance and Vehicle Licence issued by ICBC

d) a BC CareCard or BC Gold CareCard; e) a Ministry of Social Development and Economic Security Request for Continued Assistance Form SDES8, (now “Monthly Form EA181);

f) a Social Insurance Number card; g) a Citizenship Card; h) a real property tax notice; i) a credit card or debit card; or j) a utility bill, (such as electricity, natural gas, water, telephone or cable services).

The above listed identi cation documents MUST be accepted by election o cials. An election o cial may also accept other forms of documents that provide evidence satisfactory to the election o cial (e.g., a valid, current passport).

MAIL BALLOT VOTING

REQUESTING A MAIL BALLOT PACKAGE:

Mail ballot applications are available and can be submitted to the District of Invermere o ce between February 7th, 2023, to March 2nd, 2023 at 4 p.m.

If you would like to receive a mail ballot to vote by mail, an application must be submitted to the District of Invermere o ce by February 10th, 2023, at 4 p.m.

If you would like to receive a mail ballot and submit it to the o ce an application must be submitted to the District of Invermere o ce by March 2nd, 2023, at 4 p.m.

Applications are on the District of Invermere website at www. invermere.net, or can be requested by email corporateservices@ invermere.net and the municipal o ce located at 914 – 8th Avenue.

To be counted, your mail ballot must be received by the Chief Election O cer no later than 8:00 pm on Saturday, March 4th, 2023, of General Voting Day.

For further information on the election process, please contact: Kindry Luyendyk, Chief Election O cer 250-342-9281 corporateservices@invermere.net

CVCF’S Doerr Family Youth Fund (Remembering Tommy) reaches

$1,000,000

Submitted by Columbia Valley Community Foundation

For many years, Harvey and Sherry Doerr have worked to strengthen the Columbia Valley community both through hands-on, hard work and financial contributions.

Sherry served as the board chair of the Summit Youth Centre for 10 years and remains a valued advisor today. In 2016, Harvey and Sherry established an endowment fund which has provided community grants to a myriad of projects.

In July 2022, the Doerrs tragically lost their son Tommy. To honour his memory, they established a new endowment fund: The Doerr Family Youth Fund (Remembering Tommy). The fund’s purpose is to ensure the sustainability of high-quality programming for youth in the Columbia Valley. The fund’s income shall be used to ensure that organizations offering such programs have access to funding to support their continued operations.

Many of the Doerrs’ family members and friends donated to the Doerr Family Youth Fund over the summer and fall. In December, Harvey, Sherry and their son Robert collectively donated $1,000,000- bringing the value of the Youth Fund to $1 million and the Doerr Family Community Fund to approximately $144,000.

These donations are amongst the most generous gifts that the CVCF has ever received and will have a very meaningful impact to our community; increasing the amount of money to be disbursed annually in the Foundation’s community grants program by about 40 per cent.

We need to ensure a vibrant and supportive community for our youth to ensure a healthy community for us all. The Doerr Family funds will serve a critical role in allowing the Foundation to support initiatives and organizations working toward this end.

Sherry Doerr and Harvey Doerr, back row, with their son Robert, front left, established an endowment fund in memory of Tommy Photo submitted

By Chadd Cawson Local Journalism Initiative Reporter

The countdown is on for film buffs. The fourth annual Invermere Film Festival runs from February 2 to 5 at the Columbia Valley Centre (CVC). The festival will be selling passes to see all seven films for $35 and individual film tickets for $10. When purchasing tickets online, festival goers will have the option to donate to Mountain of Hope.

“We’re doing a lot of new stuff this year,” said Bill Johnston, festival organizer. “On Feb. 2, we will be showcasing the best films of the B.C. and Alberta filmmaking competition. It was open to all B.C. and Alberta amateur or seasoned filmmakers. Over 100 entries were received.”

“We will always have strong and truthful Indigenous films that come up, and we will always be looking for them. We’re thrilled to bring ‘Susap’ to Invermere,” said Johnston.

Filmmaker Dan Caverly’s 2022 documentary, ‘Susap: Keeper of Knowledge’ will be the first film shown; it shows at 4 p.m on Feb. 3. For as long as he can remember, Caverly has been a storyteller and has done so professionally in radio, TV, and film. In August 2021, he was approached by the Lower Kootenay Band in Creston to see if he would take on telling Robert Louie Sr.’s story.

‘Susap Keeper of Knowledge’ is my first film of (this) kind. This was first I had heard of it and of course said I’d be honoured to do the film,” said Caverly. “What a compelling and amazing story to be told! We knew we were running out of time because Robert’s health was failing. I started planning immediately, with the first order of business being to make Robert feel comfortable in telling me his story on camera.” The film tells Louie Sr.’s story as Leader, Elder, and residential school survivor.

“I learned a great deal throughout the process about the travesties bestowed upon Indigenous Peoples throughout history. The most memorable part of the making of this film was the learning and re-enacting of Robert’s abduction and subsequent escape from the residential school in Cranbrook. I just can’t imagine a seven year old climbing out a window at night and then spending the next 21 days and nights in the forest finding his way back to his home in Creston. Unbelievable!”

The Creston Arts Council raised the funds for the making of this film.

The documentary ‘Carry It On’, will be shown next. It’s about the life, music and activism of legendary Indigenous singer-songwriter, Buffy Sainte-Marie, who was the first Indigenous person to win an Oscar: she received it in 1983 for best original song, ‘Up Where We Belong’, which she co-wrote for the movie, An Officer and a Gentleman.

“It’s unbelievable,” said Johnston. ‘Carry It On’ is very powerful and well made, and Sainte-Marie is brilliant. I feel it’s going to play well.”

Something on the lighter side is planned for Saturday night; the film to be featured is being decided on.

The festival will close on Feb. 5 with the film, Riceboy Sleeps.

“It’s very powerful and well done,” said Johnston. “It was voted best film at both the Calgary and Whistler film festivals this year.

celebrates its fourth year

OUT OF OFFICE…

Hello Food Industry, this workshop is for you!

The Columbia Valley Chamber of Commerce team is calling everyone in the food industry to come meet for a Columbia Valley Food Systems workshop. We know that expanding the infrastructure of the local food industry is integral to our economy, and we are always looking for opportunities to support these endeavors.

After partnering with the Basin Food Expo in October, there has been a new level of excitement and energy around the local food industry and what can be implemented to support the growth of this sector. This event re-connected us and introduced us to many new people in the industry, some of which are local aspiring food entrepreneurs with some great ideas.

In the past, we have discussed and researched the feasibility of having a meat hub and food hub in the valley. We would like to review the findings of these reports, hear feedback, collaborate, and listen to new ideas in circulation.

This workshop will take place on February 13th from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. in the Lions Hall (651 Hwy 93/95). We invite any growers, processors, makers, sellers and distributors who are interested in learning more, and anyone who would like to contribute ideas to the conversation. We are hoping this will be the first meetup of many! To RSVP, please visit www.cvchamber.ca

WHAT’S HAPPENING? cvevents.ca

POWERED BY THE COLUMBIA VALLEY CHAMBER

ursday, January 26

● 7 p.m.: Trivia Night at Arrowhead with the Invasive Species Council. Come Test your environmental knowledge (costs $10) and goes to environmental outreach e orts.

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

• 9:45 a.m. – Beginner Pottery Wheel Throwing at Pottery Playground

• 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 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 Windermere Whitehouse Pub. $3/ per person, ages 19+

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

Friday, January 27

• 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.: Free Youth Drop-in Fun at the Youth Centre 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 28

● 9 a.m.: 23rd Annual Fishing Derby. Get tickets in advance at Taynton Bay Spirits or the Station Pub. Be there at 8 a.m. to register and get set up that day!

• 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 29

● 1 p.m.: Kids in the Kitchen. This adult & kids baking class is for kids 6 and up. Email invermere@cotr.bc.ca to learn more and register.

• 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 30

• 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

• 9:45 a.m.: Beginner pottery wheel throwing at Pottery Playground

• 9:15-11:45 a.m.: StrongStart/ CAPC 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.

scan me!

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

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

• 6 p.m.: Poker Night at the Station Pub. Chip up for charity. Ages 19+

Tuesday, January 31

• 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.: Artists Gathering at the Radium Public Library. 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.

• 7 p.m.: Games night at Ullr (19+). Costs $5/card, with prizes to be won each week.

Wednesday, February 1

● 7 p.m.: Community Drum Circle at Pynelogs. Email columbiavalleydrumming@ gmail.com to save your spot.

• 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 Centre ($2 drop in).

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

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

• 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.

• 5 p.m.: Date night at Rustica – Eagle Ranch. Date night features a weekly special, appetizers, and 2 glasses of wine for $100.

• 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.

Sledge Skate of Hope draws big early morning crowd to Kinsmen Beach

By Steve Hubrecht steve@columbiavalleypioneer.com

Canada’s national para hockey men’s team captain, Tyler McGregor, sledged skated the B.C. leg of his Sledge Skate of Hope on the Lake Windermere Whiteway earlier this week, drawing a large crowd of local well-wishers and supporters.

More than a hundred valley residents turned out at Kinsmen Beach early on the morning of Monday, Jan. 23, as McGregor took to the ice at Kinsmen Beach.

McGregor, as previously reported in the Pioneer, is in the midst of a winter-long, cross-country fundraising campaign. He is sledge skating a full marathon (42 kilometres) in each of Canada’s provinces, often on iconic ice skating trails (Ottawa’s Rideau Canal, the Forks in Winnipeg, and of course the Whiteway), in an effort to raise

more than $100,000 for the Terry Fox Foundation. Like Fox, McGregor became an amputee at a young age fol-

B.C. Temperatures were well below zero and conditions cloudy when he arrived at Kinsmen Beach early on Monday morning. As the clock ticked down to McGregor’s starting time, more and more residents also came down to the beach – some to cheer McGregor on his way and others to skate with him for as long as they could last. About two dozen of the gathered crowd set off with McGregor for the first few hundred metres of his three laps around the lake.

lowing a diagnosis of bone cancer (McGregor had spindle cell sarcoma, while Fox had osteosarcoma).

The marathon on the Whiteway was McGregor’s third, following one earlier this month in Nova Scotia, and one in Alberta just a few days before he arrived in

Babies of 2022

Evelyn Lisa Jane Allen

Born: March 22, 2022

Weight: 6 lbs. 13 oz.

Parents: Janine and Jordan Allen

Grandparents: Inga and Peter Sweetman Christina Boucher

Fun facts: Ticklish. Loves to smile and laugh.

Colby Nixon Fletcher

Jude, Landon and Abigail

Jude, Landon and Abigail were born to Katie & Dane, Kelsey & Dan, Mike & Kendra on February 8, February 20th and June 22, 2022. Delighted grandparents are Art & Marilyn. All three babies love peekaboo and clapping to “If You’re Happy and You Know It”.

Nolan Mark Allen Bidinger

Just before taking to the ice, he spoke with the Pioneer, and described how grateful he was to see so many people out.

“It’s amazing. It’s been very uplifting — it seems each marathon has grown bigger in terms of participation,” said McGregor.

He had arrived in Invermere the night before and said “it is an incredibly beautiful place, and the small town hospitality has been wonderful.”

The U18 Columbia Valley Rockies hockey team was out in force at the skate, with most of the team joining McGregor on his skate. The team undertook a tremendous fundraising effort for McGregor, and by the end of the day on Jan. 23 had raised more than $10,000 to donate to the Sledge Skate of Hope.

“I’m really please with the turnout, and I’m not surprised to see so many locals out early on a Monday morning. When our valley sees a good cause, they come together,” Invermere mayor, Al Miller, told the Pioneer at the event.

“It is truly inspiring, and I think it is a true tribute to the legacy of Terry Fox,” added Columbia River-Revelstoke MLA, Doug Clovechok, who recalled seeing Fox in Calgary more than four decades ago.

Born: January 24, 2022

Weight: 9 lbs. 3 oz.

Parents: Adam Fletcher and Amber Swindell

Grandparents: Mark and Christine Swindell

Fun fact: Colby loves his big brother so much. He couldn’t wait to keep up with him so he was walking by 10 months!

Born: March 8, 2022 at 11 p.m Weight: 7.5 lbs

Parents: Matthew Bidinger and Brooke Richardson

Fun fact: Natural born snowboarder

Invermere resident and Toronto Maple Leafs fan Daxton Eastick-Smith, here with his mom Sarah Eastick, was delighted to learn McGregor is also a big Leafs fan.

“It’s amazing. It’s been very uplifting — it seems each marathon has grown bigger in terms of participation.”

Tyler McGregor, speaking on the turnout of 100 people to the Sledge Skate of Hope on the Whiteway.

Canadian men’s para hockey captain Tyler McGregor was in the Columbia Valley on Monday, Jan. 23, sledge skating the B.C. section of his Sledge Skate of Hope on the Lake Windermere Whiteway, starting at Kinsmen Beach. Many residents came to skate with McGregor or support his efforts. Local Indigenous Peoples, led by Shuswap Band member Suzie Thomas, marked the start of his journey (top), while Columbia Valley RCMP Constable Jens Dubreuil gave McGregor a lucky quarter (middle), McGregor began his 42-kilometres skate at Kinsmen Beach (bottom)

MINOR 2022/2023 HOCKEY

U7 U9

U 7 MEMBERS

Coaches

Front:

Back:

U11A MEMBERS

Front:

U9

Front: Cooper Smith, James Smith, William Huntly, Jules Pemberton, Daxton Eastick Smith, Talon Jones-Julian, Braya Botterill, Johnny Shane, Henry Read, Symon Mercado, Charlie Dyballa.

MEMBERS

Back: Gwen Dubielewicz, Trygg Miller, Everett Johnston, Griffin Witzke, Liam Morrison, Teddy Wood, Sawyer Jones, Porter Olauson, Jack Moseley, Weston Shanks, Brayden Peterson.

Absent from photo: Calder Schaffer. Photo by Chris Moseley

Coaches

Missing:

Front:

Back:

Absent

U11B MEMBERS

Steve Bush left and George Pemberton

Coach Kane McAffer. Managers Jessica Gramlich and Alicia Shanks

Colin Gallaway, Bruce Bush, Roy Bush, Parker Moll, Oliver Lapointe, Alexandra Brunner, Olivia Macdonnell.

Nate Shanks, Henry McAffer, Ronan Pemberton, Judah Johnson, Jace Smith, Tucker Godlien.

from photo: Tuck Taylor. Photo by Chris Moseley

left to right: Aldene Atkinson (manager) Steve Atkinson, Jason Botterill, Jean Bourbeau, Tom Smith

Anders Olauson, Maverick Seel, Jayce Biddinger, Eliot Girimonte, Marshall Dewey, Blain Atkinson, Scarlett Smith, Finnleigh Botterill

Tristan Shaw, Rennen Cullen, Conrad Caswell, Max Brown, Rèmi Bourbeau, Ashton Wierenga, Samuel Koss. Missing Violet Caswell

Photo by Chris Moseley

Coaches: Richard Vernon left and Simon Gramlich right. Manager, Jessica Gramlich (missing)

Bentley Vernon, Jack Gramlich, Jack Hildes, Hudson Lapointe, Bryan Wood.

Back: Charlie Breau, Teeg Stapleton, Luke Cropley, Nash DuBois. Absent from photo: Addison Chasse, Owen Brown. Photo by Chris Moseley

~ Sidney Crosby

MINOR 2022/2023 HOCKEY

U13

U15

U13 MEMBERS

Front: Theo Wilson, Crosby Vernon, Benjamin Saunders, Everett Hysert, Teagan Wolfenden, Pistol Keith, Nicholas Buttle.

Left to Right

Back: Zoe Hetherington, Katherine Moseley, Ethan Dewey, Bryce Konge, Hayden Walker, Emersyn Johnson, Wyatt Witzke.

Absent from photo: Dylan Khunkhun, Jaecie Chursinoff, Jakob Cable, Jordan Maville, Sawyer Wight.

U15 MEMBERS

Missing manager: Jodie Cropley

Left to right coaches: Greg Nyuli, Grant Kelly, Carl Kinsey, Justin Stanbury

Front: Etienne Desilets, Tanner Cropley, Lewis Turgeon, Gage Nyuli, Caden Culham, Myan Twogood.

Back: Hunter Wood, Chase Kinsey, Keegan Kelly, Caldan Stanbury, Stefan Viik, Kade Shaw, Tyler McGowan. Chayton Martin, Odin Oddy, Sophia Bacon.

Photo by Chris Moseley

coaches: Rich Vernon, Fergus Dewey, Gregg Walker

Photo by Chris Moseley

MINOR 2022/2023 HOCKEY

U18

U18

U18 MEMBERS

Coaches left to right: Jody Brooks, Jason Pike, Jens Dubreuil (missing)

Front: Brayden Roe, Ryan Digney, Thomas Meena, Cameron Charette, Carter Digney, Cole Vander Vinne, Brendan Niemi, Myles Altmann.

Back: Jesse McIntosh, Cameron Jacobsen, Teagan Pike, Baylan Douglas, Ethan Spencer, Adam Kubian, Carson Jefferson, Leif Dubreuil, Connor Von Niessen, Timm Benedict Denecke, Kaydn Chasse, Addison Kreuh.

Absent from photo: Braxton Guilliford, Brayden Mastroianni, Carter Thorne, Connor Brooks, Lucas Pfisterer. Photo by Chris Moseley

Coaches left to right: Craig Wilcock, Jody Brooks, Doug Schick, Jody McConnachie

U18 FEMALE MEMBERS

Front: Cara Jaskela, Meika Vander Vinne, Maya Eccles, Cimone Zimmer, Sydnee Brooks, Maggie Sheltgen, Saffian Douglas.

Absent from photo: Cadence Hembruff. Photo by Chris Moseley

Back: Ireland Brunner, Payton Kruger, Avery McConnachie, Sahara Eccles, Taya Anderson, Naomi Gervais, Makenna O’Connor, Kadie Schick, Alyssa Shaw.

Tyler McGregor accepted a cheque for $10,010.65 from Jens Dubreuil, coach of the U18 Columbia Valley Rockies. The team, in a semi circle behind McGregor and Dubreuil, worked hard to raise the huge sum of money to donate to the Sledge Skate of Hope (top left) Pictured with Tyler McGregor, centre, are Brandon Chandler, his manager, and RCMP Constable Jens Dubreuil on Lake Windermere on January 23, during the Sledge Skate of Hope event (top right). A huge number of people went to Lake Windermere on January 23 in support of Tyler McGregor and his Sledge Skate of Hope event (2nd middle)Tyler McGregor, far left, joined the U18 Columbia Valley Rockies on January 23. Photos by Tanya Roe

McGregor is shown skating with members of the U18 Columbia Valley Rockies (top left) and other valley residents (top right ) joining in. As McGregor passed Windermere, Windermere Elementary School (WES) students came down to the Windermere beach and held out a large Canadian flag for McGregor to skate under (middle bottom). The U18 Rockies with a massive fundraising effort, raised more than $10,000 for the Sledge Skate of Hope.

Photos by Steve Hubrecht and Mark Rievaj

S chaal, B etty (Annie E lizabeth)

August 10, 1938Januar y 2, 2023

We are heartbroken to announce the passing of Betty on Januar y 2nd, 2023, in Fairmont Hot Springs, BC at the age of 84.

Betty was born in Grande Prairie, AB and grew up working on the family farm. There were many years of hard work and chores to be had, leading her to become a hard worker, practical thinker and would always lend a hand where needed

Betty met her husband Carl in Grande Prairie while working at the Coca Cola plant and he was at a nearby office working for Karran’s Plumbing They married in Aug 1959 and welcomed 3 children over the next few years.

While raising their children, Betty was always available to coach in minor hockey and baseball She thoroughly enjoyed those years, leading the teams to many victories and supporting each sport her children loved There were numerous road trips both in the winter and summer and those prairie winter roads were never a deterrent for getting the boys to their tournaments. Betty was a leader in growing and developing the Grande Prairie ladies minor hockey auxiliar y She spent many years volunteering at the bake and equipment sales, swap meets and many evenings working in the concession booth and sewing crests onto jerseys for the teams. Being involved in sports was just part of Betty’s participation in her children’s interests. She was also a Girl Guide leader for many years, meeting weekly and even taking her pack on weekend camping trips. Helping to create skits and crafts, lead in singalongs and growing self confidence in the girls was an important aspect of Betty’s life Growing up on the farm, Betty knew that whatever a boy could accomplish, a girl was just as able She decided to form and play in a female hockey team. Something not common in those days, and because there were only enough ladies to form a team, they played against the boys she had been coaching This led to some interesting games. Betty also played fastball for many years.

As the kids grew up Betty continued to volunteerand became certified with St John’s Ambulance We recall many evenings being dummies so she was able to practice life saving skills, making slings and bandaging wounds.

She was also involved in the Grande Prairie hospital ladies auxiliar y and many days the kitchen table was covered in fabric as she sewed nightgowns for preemies.

Betty and Carl thought retirement was a good idea, but after a short time of quiet, they started a landscaping company and Betty also tried her hand working in the retail business. Always being successful, she soon became a regional manager and travelled to assist in setting up stores and checking on their progress.

Carl and Betty were always happy to tend to their acreage clearing the land, putting up fencing and modifying the farmhouse into a tack shed She joined the Grande Prairie Gymkhana Club and travelled to weekend events. Betty’s passion was being with her horses and spending time riding and competing A horse lady to the core, Betty would often talk about Mantracker and never missed a show She was ver y proud of her signed shirt and hat she received from him and the signed portrait she kept close It was also around this time, Betty decided to get her license as a driving instructor with Start Rite She was ver y proud when a student would call or come in and let her know they passed She really cared about people and helping them gain confidence behind the wheel and in life

Her grandchildren were also important to her and so loved by her She enjoyed making crafts and baking with them especially during Easter and Christmas. She was always offering love and encouragement to them and taught the value of being humble by example

Mom, thank you for always peaking from behind the curtains making sure we made it home safely at night. We always knew you were there, and you never complained about the worr y we caused you, always thinking it wasn’t about you, it was about us just being safe

We know you are free and riding with horses through the mountains and trails.

We want to thank the Kelowna and Invermere hospital doctors, nurses, home care and the Cranbrook Oncology Department for their respect and kindness shown to mom.

Betty is predeceased by her husband Carl, parents Francis and Pauline Gibney, brother William and sister-in-law Sharon She is survived by her 3 children Gar y and wife Kelly, Brian and wife Corrie, Karen and husband Bill, grandchildren Zachar y, Marriah, Ilianna, Jeremy, Brett, Alexandra, Luke and great grandchild Ezra, brother John and wife Margaret, Bob and wife Juanita, sister Dorothy and family and sister-in-law Joanne and family

A ser vice for Betty and Carl is planned for April 22nd in Invermere, location to be announced

ANNOUNCEMENT

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

• Phone: 250-341-6299

• Email: info@columbiavalleypioneer.com Web: www.columbiavalleypioneer.com

HAY FOR SALE

Top qualit y round bales Stored in shed Phone Elkhorn Ranch 250-342-1268

Cheers to Kim of KRS Photography for doing the Elder Projec t The care and concern you showed for my mother means a lot You took a personal interest in her I am grateful for your compassion

CHEERS to the Invermere Fire Depar tment. HO, HO, HO. Alcoholics Anonymous If alcohol is causing problems or conic t in your life, AA can help All meetings are at 7 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

Cheers to Lordco staffer who went above and beyond to assist me with my vehicle last week

Cheers to Alicia at Huckleberr y's. The ser vice on the evening of Januar y 17th was greatfriendly and efficient.

Cheers to all the staff at A & W Invermere for the friendly, efficient ser vice!

Cheers to Mike Topping of Home Hardware for the rst class ser vice you gave to me last week and for selling me the proper sealer paint for my furnace room oor You even delivered the paint to my car.

Cheers to Steve and Audrey Mant yka for all the kind things you do to help others What a wonder ful example you are of friendship in the rst degree

ANNOUNCEMENT

Fully furnished, shared home available Februar y, March and April 2023 Central Invermere $690 a month, plus approx $125 00 (1/2 ac tual hydro cost) For a single person with references.

Email: recipesandblessings@gmail com for full details

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

Hear tfeltcompanionser vices com

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

POLE PEELER OPERATOR POSITION

Brisco Wood Preservers Ltd., a major Canadian treated wood producer specializing in utility poles and agricultural products, is seeking to hire a Peeler Operator for our plant in Brisco BC.

Our main treating facility is located just north of Radium Hot Springs in the beautiful Columbia Valley in British Columbia. Brisco Wood Preservers’ second treating facility and Dowel Post plant is located in Peers, Alberta. Brisco sells treated Poles, posts, rails, and we also custom treat a variety of wood products.

General Summary: Reporting to the Plant Site Manager, the Peeler Operator primary responsibility is to operate the pole Peeler and related system components as well as general cleanup and other duties as required.

Key Responsibilities:

• Perform tasks efficiently focusing on Safety, Quality and Production while meeting deadlines.

Process barkie poles through the Peeler, cleanly remove bark.

• Maintains Peeler system equipment including daily service of parts, grease, inspect, cleaning.

Documents and reports quality, mechanical and operations production to the supervisor.

• Assists in maintenance and repair of system equipment as required.

• Communicates production quality concerns with appropriate individuals. Fill out paperwork accurately.

• Work effectively together with assigned crew.

• Following established procedures to safely produce high quality results.

Qualifications:

Experience in running a Peeler an asset. Willing to train the right candidate.

• Experience with minor mechanical repairs an asset.

Ability to follow direction and work together with others to complete assigned tasks.

Background in the Forest Industry a definite asset.

• Self-reliant, organized, motivated and quality oriented.

This is a full-time position, which offers a competitive wage, and comprehensive benefits package.

We wish to thank all applicants for their interest, however, only those selected for interviews will be contacted.

How to Apply: Please address cover letter and resume to Kevin Olson – Plant Site Manager and e-mail pdf file to: epetersen@briscowood.com or Fax to 250-346-3218

Deadline for application is 5 p.m. (MST) Friday, February 3, 2023.

Invermere Optometry Full-time Receptionist

Apply with resume in person to Invermere Optometry 1325 7th Avenue, Invermere or email moneo@telus net

If you previously applied, in the past year on Indeed.ca, please reapply directly to Invermere Optometry.

Tax Professional/ Office Manager

H&R Block (Franchise Office) Invermere, BC

H&R Block is seeking an Tax Professional/Office Manager to join our team This is an in-office position

As a representative of H&R Block you are responsible for preparing complete and accurate tax returns while delivering outstanding Client Service

Duties include:

• Conducting Tax Interviews with clients and preparing tax returns

• Ensuring Client Confidentiality and Privacy

• Delivering outstanding Client Service

• Other duties as assigned

Experience in a fast-paced tax environment is preferred, however, will train the right candidate

Please send resume to connie freestone@hrblock ca For more information, please call 250-489-5388

Brainard Custom Contracting LTD is growing again! We are hiring for Skilled Labourers/Journeyman Carpenters to join our team in Invermere B.C. Now is your chance to join a local company, right here in the Columbia Valley! Wages will be negotiated depending on experience.

What we have to O er YOU:

• Fun, no-stress workdays

• Monday to Friday, no weekends

• Flexible schedule to assist with personal and family needs

• An employer that respects and values you!

What you need to O er US :

• Must be reliable and respect hard work

• Must want to be part of a team and have a great attitude

• Must have own vehicle for work within the Columbia Valley Please email list of quali cations to BrainardCustom@gmail.com or call 250-341-7421. Have questions? Ask! We look forward to working with you!

OPEN TO TENDER

Head Coach-Technical Director

Columbia Valley Youth Soccer-Columbia Valley Football Club is seeking to hire a new Head Coach and/or Technical Director.

Responsibilities include but not limited to:

• Individual and group Team Coach support and training

• Player support and training (direct and through Team Coaches)

• Systematic/scheduled approach to programing through the season

• Support and Fostering of overall Club culture

• Liaising with the Board of Directors

Please include any credentials, skills and experience you feel is relevant. You are welcome to include your value-added proposition in your submission as well as share any personal philosophy or approach you feel is important.

Please submit your proposal to the CVYS-CVFC Board via the current Chair at soccercvys@gmail.com by February 10th, 2023. Only shortlisted applicants will be contacted for interviews.

THANK YOU FOR YOUR SUPPORT OF LOCAL SOCCER!

TITANS!

Ice carving at Snowflake Festival

Groundswell Community Greenhouse and Gardens needs your help!

Groundswell Community Greenhouse and Gardens is seeking new volunteers for both our working board as well as team liaisons for 2023! We are a non-profit organization, focused on food production and food sustainability for the Columbia Valley and helping to ensure nutritious and delicious produce is abundant for generations to come. We need your help!

We are looking for individuals with: - a passion for education about growing local, natural produce and supporting our physical and mental health - a willingness to learn as you go along - an ability to connect with other like-minded people and learn from the experts

- skills in organization, event planning, fundraising, greenhouse maintenance, nutrition and food supply, education, biodiversity, co-creating with other valley organizations to maximize resources.

Not a gardener? You can still contribute as a board member or on a committee and learn more about gardening. If you are an experienced gardener, we would love to hear from you too - your knowledge and expertise is always needed!

We are looking for five board members and several team members to join us at Groundswell. Roles are tailored to your individual availability, both here in the valley and when you are away. Come join a community who loves to create beauty, abundance, and have fun in the process.

The Groundswell Network Society will be holding their 2023 annual general meeting (AGM) and member social on Monday, March 6 at 6:30 p.m. at Pynelogs Cultural Centre in Invermere. Become a member at the event and join other members for food, drinks and socializing with other gardeners.

Find out more about Groundswell online at: www.groundswellnetwork.ca

Interested in becoming a board member? Contact us by Thursday, Feb. 2. You can learn more at: partners@groundswellnetwork.ca

Become a member before the AGM online at: https://groundswellnetwork.ca/ membership

Print and Digital Repor ter/Photographer

The

The successful candidate works well in a team setting, but is self motivated. You will be responsible to write multiple news stories ever y week for print and on-line publication, take photographs to accompany stories, attend community events and lay out pages (all while respecting Social Distancing requirements).

Qualifications

• Journalism education: degree, diploma or certificate; or equivalent work experience.

• Valid driver’s license and reliable vehicle.

• Positive attitude, must be organized and able to work both independently and in a team setting

• Experience in InDesign, Photoshop, and posting to social media

The company offers competitive benefit and pension plans.

Interested candidates should for ward their resume to Amanda Nason, Associate Publisher/S ales Manager: adver tising@columbiavalleypioneer.com

Applications are open until the position is filled and is based in our office at 8 – 1008, 8th Ave Invermere, B.C.

Western Canadian ice carver extraordinaire Kelly Davis (power carver, cold creative) was at this year’s Snowflake Festival, fashioning an icy dream catcher that was spectacular by day and stunning at night! Local residents and festival goers enjoyed seeing the sculpture take shape from the start the finish.

Bonspiel on the lake

Photos by Cortney Pitts

Curling en plein air was at its finest last weekend during the annual Bonspiel on the Lake.

Photos by Theresa Wood

Columbia Valley Pioneer is looking for a full-time Print and Digital Reporter/Photographer for our news operation based in Invermere. We operate a daily news site and a weekly print publication.

Sentient salamanders- tiger salamander

THE WILD FILES

It’s our nature

By Chadd Cawson Local Journalism Initiative Reporter

Chinese New Year was celebrated across the world on January 22, marking the transition from the 2022 water tiger to the 2023 water rabbit. The type of tiger we see around waters such as the Columbia River and many of its tributaries is the tiger salamander.

Worldwide, there are 410 species of salamanders; 21 of those are native to Canada, including the tiger salamander, one of the largest terrestrial salamanders in North America. With an average lifespan of 12 to 15 years, adult salamanders grow to an average length of 20 cm. The largest species of salamander in the world is the Chinese giant salamander - typically 183 centimetres (cm) long.

Much like tigers, tiger salamanders also have markings on their back, heads, and tails which can range in hue from a brownish to greenish yellow, while their bodies themselves vary from dark brown, grey, or black. Tiger salamanders, like other mole salamanders, have five toes on each of their hind feet, and four toes on their front. They are known for their strong legs, thick neck, short snout, and lengthy tail, although the female’s tail is shorter and does not flatten like the male’s during breeding season.

Mating

The love dance looks a little different for every creature. Courtship for the salamander begins with nudging and tail lashing. The lashing of the tails prompts the male salamander to deposit a sperm packet called a spermatophore either on the ground or on debris in a vernal pool. The female then retrieves it with her vent. Females lay their eggs every other year in water that is less than a metre deep. They can lay up to 120 eggs which usually become attached to stones or plants underwater in their nesting area. Salamanders mate in the winter, and the females lay their eggs in the spring.

Salamanders are cannibalistic

When it comes to diet, that of a tiger salamander mostly consists of small insects, worms, snails, slugs, and frogs. However, it is not that rare that a tiger salamander and will become cannibalistic and eat one of its own. Studies show that this type of cannibalism among salamanders stems from an overabundance of predators within an area and a lack of prey. If opportunity presents itself, the tiger salamander will also chow down on smaller salamanders, baby snakes (snakelets), and mice.

Threat of congress

A group of salamanders is called a congress and they can be quite a threat to most frog species. Immune to it themselves, tiger salamanders transmit the fungus batrachochytrium dendrobatidis which cause the disease, chytridiomycosis, in most amphibians. This disease not only ravages the skin of frogs and toads, but it also throws off their water and salt balance, causing heart failure. While chytridiomycosis is the biggest threat salamanders are the cause of, the biggest threat to them is the loss of wetlands, especially those with vernal pools. Tiger salamanders thrive in wetlands such as the Columbia Lake North wetlands near the headwaters of the Columbia River. This past December, The Nature Trust BC purchased 165 acres of this wetland that is crucial to the survival of much wildlife, including the tiger salamander. Without the conservation of wetlands such as this, salamanders will have to travel farther to find suitable breeding sites.

Sponsor a Student Gardener

To play, learn, grow and contribute through gardening Green our valley, slow climate change …

When you think about charitable contributions do you think food? Yet food sustainability is a critical issue for the valley. Over the past 2 years our roads have been cut off several times and grocery shelves emptied rapidly. Plus rising food costs are making nutritious meals challenging in many valley homes.

The tiger salamander is one of 21 species that is native to Canada and one of the largest in North America. They depend on wetlands such as the Columbia Lake North Wetlands for habitats and breeding. Submitted by The Nature Trust BC

The Groundswell Student Gardener Program in partnership with Home Hardware is a hands on gardening program in the Mt Nelson Community Gardens. Students plan, plant, grow, care for and harvest throughout the growing season. This year we will be adding freezing and canning to their learning, ensuring they enjoy the benefits of their gardens nutrition throughout the winter months. There are 90 more students lined up wanting into the program this year….We need your help!

When you invest in Groundswell’s Student Gardeners Program you are Investing in a student’s…

• Mental and physical well being

• Ability to improve their own and their families diet

• Improved focus and attention, which in turn improves their grades

• Increased self-confidence

• Sense of belonging to a meaningful community

Hold that tiger salamander

Tiger salamanders are becoming more popular as pets. While their average life expectancy in the wild can range from 14 to 16 years, in captivity and cared for, they can live to the age of 25. They are known to quickly overcome their natural fear of humans, and studies show from inside their enclosures (they) will follow their keeper’s movements. Their skin is very delicate, so when attempting to hold one, they should be handled with care. Salamanders are not cold-blooded creatures but instead are sentient beings that can perceive things and fully feel pain and suffering like cats and dogs.

Fire salamander

In some Indigenous cultures, and other cultures, the salamander’s symbolism is like that of the phoenix. It is believed that they can walk through flames without harm. They are associated with rebirth, immortality, power, and passion.

• Understanding the value of giving back to their community

• Valuing hard, physical work

• Improved immune system

• Reducing anxiety around climate change by giving them control to do something to improve it.

Double your impact - investing in this program gives you a double win as the additional produce grown is given to the Columbia Valley Food Bank. Last year they gave 500 kg of fresh produce.

Donate today to invest in a student at www.groundswellnetwork.ca and tap on Donate. For further details or tax receipt info email us at: events@groundswellnetwork.ca For further details email us at: events@groundswellnetwork.ca

Grow Healthier Kids & Community

Mayvis Goranson shares her donation with students. She remembers a time when families could feed themselves all year from their gardens. She wants to see more of that. This is “a teach them to sh” investment with a high return long into the future.

There is a fresh wind a-blowing FAITH

LAKE WINDERMERE ALLIANCE CHURCH

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

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 Ministr y). 110 - 7th Ave. in Invermere.

Sunday 10 a.m. Worship ser vice 4814 Highway Drive, Windermere 250-342-9511 • www.valleychristianonline.com

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

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

Sunday 10 a.m. Worship service Pastor Wayne and Linda Frater • 250-342-6633 No 4, 7553 Main St Radium • 250-347-9937

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

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

CHURCH OF CHRIST (Iglesia ni Cristo)

Worship Ser vice: Sunday 9 a.m., Thursday 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

By Pastor Wayne Frater Radium Christian Fellowship Church

Here we are - a brand new year! 2022 is gone and 2023 is only a few weeks old. I believe God wants to do something new and fresh in our lives.

Isaiah 43:18,19 NKJV: “Do not remember the former things, Nor consider the things of old. Behold, I will do a new thing, Now it shall spring forth; Shall you not know it? I will even make a road in the wilderness And rivers in the desert.”

Is. 58:11,12 “The Lord will guide you continually, And satisfy your soul in drought, And strengthen your bones; You shall be like a watered garden, And like a spring of water, whose waters do not fail. Those from among you, Shall build the old waste places; You shall raise up the foundations of many generations; And you shall be called the Repairer of the Breach, The Restorer of Streets to Dwell In.”

I know we have all made mistakes in the past, but I believe that the Lord is telling us here, that He would like to do something new and fresh.

God loves us and is willing to deliver us from all our past mistakes, no matter what wrong choices we have made. He has forgiven us, if we ask Him to, and He wants us to move forward. He wants to give us a fresh start. What better time than the beginning of a new year,

to decide to give God a chance, to work change in our lives? I believe that He wants to. He is simply waiting for us to ask Him to do it. Let’s make 2023 the year that we have a fresh start in life, beginning with us putting our trust in Him.

In Isaiah 43:18, God is telling us to put behind us all the mistakes of the past, and in verse 19, He is telling us that He wants to do something new - in fact it says that He has already began. He is telling us that He will make a way, through Jesus.

Jesus is the author of eternal salvation, the light of the morning, the restorer of our soul, the dayspring from on high, the strength to the poor, the great physician, the finisher of our faith, the lifter of our head, the word of life, The bread of life, and the gift of God.

For Jesus is our fresh start. For Jesus is the way in the wilderness. For Jesus is the river in our dry desert place. This is our moment, this is our season.

Do you want this fresh start in your life? It is really quite simple. Get your life right with Jesus, get in His presence, confess your sin, and accept His forgiveness.

God has already begun this fresh start, all we have to do is to choose to accept it.

Romans 10:9,10: “that if you confess with your mouth the Lord Jesus and believe in your heart that God has raised Him from the dead, you will be saved. For with the heart one believes unto righteousness, and with the mouth confession is made unto salvation.”

Give Jesus a chance in your life. You will be amazed at what He can do, if you let Him.

Bless you, and the very best of the new year to you and yours.

Peaks Gymnastics Society hosted Winter Cup

By Joanne McQuarrie editor@columbiavalleypioneer.com

Around 30 female athletes from ages six to 15 participated in the Winter Cup competition January 21-22 at David Thompson Secondary School (DTSS), hosted by the Peaks Gymnastics Society.

“It (was) the first competition of the season in our zone,” said Alyssa Chaykowski, head coach. She explained the zone includes Golden, Cranbrook, Nelson and Fernie.

The gymnasts have been training since September and each competed in four events: floor, bars, beam and vault.

“The girls have been working super hard this year,”

Chaykowski said. “They’re (were) excited to show their friends and family, and the community, their skills.” She noted with “the club in general; we have kids as young as one year old up to adults, (and) males as well as females”.

In the competition, “each athlete gets score per event, as well as receiving an overall score,” Chaykowski said. “There (were) 30 to 35 kids per session and (we ran) three sessions.” Each session was followed by awards for the participants in it, and then the next group followed.

Chaykowski is grateful for the coaches and volunteers for making the competition happen, including Abby Larrabee, as well as 20 local businesses who donated items such as coffee, hats and tea, for raffle baskets.

KINDERGARTEN REGISTRATION

NEW THIS YEAR ONLINE REGISTRATION

Link to registration can be found on our website www.sd6.bc.ca

If you need assistance or are unable to register your child by February 3, 2023, please contact your neighbourhood school

Edgewater Elementary School

Eileen Madson Primary School

Martin Morigeau Elementary School

Windermere Elementary School

RMOL (Learning @ Home Program)

Candace Scheffer, Admin Assistant 250-347-9543

Becky Gray, Admin Assistant 250-342-9315

Holly Pietrosky, Admin Assistant 250-349-5665

Nicole Nelson, Admin Assistant 250-342-6640

Crystal Chasse, Admin Assistant 250-342-9213

More Kindergarten information can be found on our website under the Early Learning page at https://www sd6 bc ca/early-learning /kindergarten

W I N D E R M E R E V A L L E Y S H A R E D M I N I S T R Y A N G L I C A N - U N I T E D

V A L L E Y C H R I S T I A N A S S E M B L Y

R O M A N C A T H O L I C C H U R C H

S T. P E T E R’S L U T H E R A N C H U R C H

R A D I U M C H R I S T I A N F E L L O W S H I P

C H U R C H O F J E S U S C H R I S T O F L A T T E R - D A Y S A I N T S