Columbia Valley Pioneer, March 9, 2023

The

The Invermere hospital, and the backcountry beyond in the Purcells, was the centre of the attention in the Columbia Valley (and internationally) last week after tragedy struck. An avalanche swept up a group of 10 people (nine guests and a guide) with local heliski company RK Heliski, leaving three dead and four injured, and prompting dozens of rescuers, emergency personnel, helicopter pilots, and medical staff at the hospital to spring into action. See story on page 3.

Photo by Joanne MacQuarrie

The night of Saturday, Mar. 4 saw a waxing Gibbous moon that was 96.25 per cent illuminated. Which was plenty of light for some evening skating on Lake Windermere. Photos by Ryan Watmough

Participants mash moguls and catch air during the Kootenay Freestyle Classic, hosted by the Freestyle Panorama Ski Club from Friday, Mar. 3 to Sunday, Mar. 5.

Photo by Ryan Watmough

Deadly avalanche tragedy shakes Columbia Valley

By Steve Hubrecht steve@columbiavalleypioneer.com

Last week a large avalanche in the Purcells, near, but not right at Panorama Mountain Resort, caught a group of heli-skiers and prompted a flurry of response from emergency personnel.

The ripples of the incident spread through the Columbia Valley as dozens of residents became involved with efforts to help.

The avalanche was likely skier-triggered and occurred on Wednesday, March 1. By the early morning on Thursday, Mar. 2 RCMP confirmed that 10 people were caught in the avalanche — three of them were killed and four were injured, some of them seriously.

Local residents heard the distinct and ominous sounds of helicopters and sirens of emergency vehicles starting about mid-day on Wednesday, Mar. 1, and lasting several hours. The sheer number of helicopters and vehicles involved, and the number of personnel bustling around outside the local hospital gave clear indication that the incident was very serious indeed, long before any reports of the fatalities and injuries became public.

By that evening national media outlets were carrying news stories outlining that a group with local heli-ski company, RK Heliski, had been involved in the accident. Panorama Mountain Resort reportedly closed their upper lifts to help make rescue efforts smoother.

On Mar. 2 the Columbia Valley RCMP detachment issued a press release with details about the incident, confirming the numbers and outlining that one of the seriously injured people was the group’s guide. The other nine were non-Canadians, and their identities are not being released until authorities notify their next of kin.

The avalanche occurred around noon on Mar. 1, and Columbia Valley Search and Rescue and Parks Canada began to join the rescue efforts, but stood down when all the buried skiers were accounted for. BC Emergency Health Services was also involved, taking care of the deceased and injured skiers, who were flown to the Invermere hospital.

“It’s (the incident) heartbreaking, quite honestly,” Invermere mayor, Al Miller, told the Pioneer. “It’s not something we are used to in our small town. We have very good quality (tourism) operators who operate to a very high standard of safety. We just don’t see this kind of thing. Unfortunately Mother Nature is sometimes just unpredictable... It’s hard on everybody involved. It’s hard on the community.”

Miller said that Invermere is “a tight-knit community. We came together in hard times. That’s what’s happening now, but that doesn’t make it easy”.

His sentiments were echoed by Regional District of East Kootenay (RDEK) Area F director, Susan Clovechok. It was in Area F that that the avalanche occurred.

“This is a small valley and we all care deeply for one another. There are no words that adequately can convey our sorrow for the lives lost and all of the lives affected by this tragedy,” said Clovechok in a press release, extending her thoughts and prayers to all impacted and thanking all those involved in the response.

On the afternoon of Mar. 2, RK Heliski held a news conference and issued a statement: “the guests and the guides who ski with us each season are part of our family. We are heartbroken about the accident that happened yesterday near Invermere, B.C. It is impossible to put into words the sorrow that we feel and the sadness that is shared by our guests, their families and all of our staff. Our thoughts and prayers go out to everyone involved, their loved ones and the community.”

The company outlined that it was grateful to its team and all other groups helped with the incident, saying “we would like to thank the professional ski patrollers from Panorama Mountain Resort, CMH Bugaboos for their dedicated team of professional Association of Canadian Mountain Guides (ACMG) guides and supporting aircrafts from Coldstream Helicopters, Silver King Helicopters, Glacier Helicopters and CMH helicopters.”

RK Heliski added it has asked the Canada’s national heli-ski industry association, HeliCat Canada, to activate a Critical Incident Stress Management (CISM) team of peer responders to support its staff.

Avalanche Canada communications co-ordinator, Lisa Perazzoli, said in a statement on Mar. 2 that the avalanche occurred on a southwest aspect, in the alpine at an elevation of about 2,500 metres and said the weak layer deep in the snowpack, which formed across much of B.C. early in the season, was a factor.

By the evening of Mar. 2 German media were reporting that the three dead skiers were Germans from Bavaria, two of them from the small village of Eging am See. The three included a 57-year old management consultant, his 57-year old friend (who was also a municipal councillor for Eging am See), and his 34-year old son in-law. Also

The snow capped Purcells rear up above the Toby Creek drainage. A backcountry avalanche last week claimed the lives of three German guests skiing with RK Heliski and left four more people, including the group’s guide, seriously injured. Avalanche Canada issued a statement after the incident implicating a weak layer buried deep in the snowpack, which has plagued much of Western Canada. It’s been a terrible winter for avalanche fatalities in B.C., with 12 so far in the province in 2023, including last week’s incident.

caught in the avalanche, but surviving, was the consultant’s 25 year old son. The four were reportedly on the trip to celebrate the 25-year old’s recent completion of his bachelor’s degree.

Eging am See has a population of 3,900 people, just as Invermere does. Just like Invermere, one of Eging am See’s main attractions is summertime beach and water recreation.

Eging am See mayor, Walter Bauer, told German media that his small community is stunned and shocked.

Photo by Ryan Watmough

RCMP Report

Released by: Cpl. Jeff Witzke

Columbia Valley RCMP

February 27 through March 5, the Columbia Valley RCMP responded to 64 calls for service. The following is a summary of some of the file our officers responded to.

On March 1, RCMP were made aware of an avalanche in the backcountry with multiple heli-skiers buried. This tragic event sadly saw three foreign nationals pass away and four others injured, including a local ski guide. This was no doubt a sad day for all involved and

our hearts go out to all those affected by this incident. The RCMP would like to acknowledge all those who assisted throughout the incident; local heli-ski and helicopter companies, Panorama Ski Patrol, BC paramedics, Fire Department, Victim Services, Search and Rescue, Interior Health and all staff at the Invermere District hospital.

In the early morning hours on March 5, RCMP were dispatched to a collision on Hwy 93/95 near Dry Gulch. A vehicle had collided with a power pole which caused a power outage for several residents. Alcohol is believed to have been a factor and an investigator is underway.

Former small business owner wins Invermere by-election

By Steve Hubrecht steve@columbiavalleypioneer.com

The long-vacant seat on Invermere council is now filled. According to preliminary results in a by-election local voters have elected longtime resident and former Columbia Valley abattoir manager, Grant Kelly, to the role.

Voting day was on March 4, and once sworn in, Kelly, who is also known in the community as the former owner of Grant’s Foods, and through his volunteers efforts with the Columbia Valley Rockies and minor hockey, will take the council seat that has been open for four months, after councillor-elect, Mark Topliff, stepped down for personal reasons in the fall of 2022.

Turnout for the by-election was high, with 507 votes cast. That’s an eye-catching total, given that there was only one councillor position to be filled. The last time Invermere electors headed to the polls back in 2018, voter turnout was 1,062 to elected candidates to five different roles — one mayor and four councillors. The municipal election prior to that, in 2014, with four positions to be filled, saw voter turnout of 760.

Not only was turnout high this time, but the margin of victory was tight: Kelly was the voters’ top choice with 140 votes, only narrowly ahead of Stephanie Stevens (who garnered 128 votes), with David Goldsmith (107 votes) and Grey Bradatsch (100 votes) not all that far behind, and with Juanita Violini (32 votes) coming in fifth. By percentage, Kelly earned 27.5 per cent of the vote, Stevens 25 per cent, Goldsmith 21 per cent, Bradatsch 20 per cent and Violini six per cent.

“I was very excited. I’m looking forward to working the council and the mayor,” Kelly told the Pioneer. He and fellow new councillor, Theresa Wood (who was acclaimed to her position during last October’s municipal election), will later this week be attending a conference in Kimberley for fresh municipal politicians.

Kelly thanked those that voted for him and thanked the other four candidates for a good electoral race, saying collectively they seemed to have re-sparked an interest in local politics, picking up from an October municipal election that didn’t actually see a vote, as a lack of candidates in Invermere meant everybody was acclaimed to their roles.

Invermere mayor Al Miller was pleased with the voter turnout, saying “it was pretty good for a by-election. I feel good about it. It’s a reasonable representation, and we ought to be happy about that.” Miller added he suspected a decent number of electors would head to the polls. “With that many candidates, I thought they would be pushing to get the vote out, and quality of the candidates helped too,” he said, adding those factors also led him to surmise that it was going to be a close race.

“The best part is that we now have a proper number of council members again. There will good debates, and we no longer need to worry about tie votes (there have been a few votes at Invermere council in the past few months that have ended deadlocked at two-two),” continued Miller.

Official results of the by-election were set to be confirmed earlier this week, just after the Pioneer went to press. Kelly will be sworn in as councillor during the upcoming Tuesday, Mar. 14 council meeting.

Columbia Valley cowboy mows moguls to triple Canada Winter Games podium

tain, New Brunswick. The 18-year old Carey, who grew up at Panorama Mountain Resort and graduated from David Thompson Secondary School (DTSS) last June, made good on the once-in-a-lifetime chance, earning a gold, silver and bronze medal in the three events he participated in.

The gold came in the team moguls event, the silver in the dual moguls, and the bronze in the single moguls.

Those old enough to remember Canadian Jean-Luc Brassard’s neon-yellow-kneed run to Olympic glory in Lillehammer know exactly what a mogul competition entails. But to explain for those younger than middle age: the event involves skiers doing a timed run down a mogul-filled slope (i.e. one dotted with large, thigh-high bumps), linking turns through the bumps and troughs, while twice launching themselves off steep jumps, performing tricks as they do.

By Steve Hubrecht steve@columbiavalleypioneer.com

A mogul-mashing, cowboy Columbia Valley teen turned a hat trick of medals recently at the Canada Winter Games.

‘Cowboy’ Cole Carey has been competing on the NorAm circuit with the B.C. provincial freestyle team this year, and had the opportunity of his athletic lifetime this winter when he earned a spot on B.C.’s team at the Canada Winter Games, held in February and March in Prince Edward Island and at Crabbe Moun-

In the single moguls event, skiers take to the course solo, one after the other. In the dual event, skiers compete on parallel courses side-by-side. Each round of the dual event involves two skiers going head-to-head, with the winner of the two progressing, knockout style, to the next round. The team event involves two teammates, one male and one female each competing in a dual race (against another male-female team). The team with the better combined score advances, knockout style, to the next round.

The Canada Winter Games are for athletes 20 years old or younger, and are held once every four years, meaning most athletes usually only get one chance to participate.

“I was so stoked. I couldn’t believe it. It was tough competition. My goal was just to put down a run or two I could be happy with, and so then when I ended up with a trio of medals, I was amazed. It couldn’t have gone any better,” Cole told the Pioneer

Cole’s parents were at the Canada Winter Games, to cheer their son on and told the Pioneer that the experience was one to remember for the whole family.

“It really is like a mini-Olympics. There’s a torch run beforehand, an opening ceremony, and there’s even an athlete’s village...The Maritime hospi-

tality was wonderful. Everybody was so excited for these young athletes to have the spotlight,” said Cole’s mom Julie.

She was delighted for Cole just to be able to attend the Games, and even more so that he did so well.

“He was on point, he was on fire,” Julie told the Pioneer. “He’s over the moon, and so are we.”

‘Cowboy’ Cole has caught attention on the NorAm circuit for more than just his performances. He steadfastly wears a cowboy hat, cowboy boots, jeans, and button-down shirt everywhere he goes. Asked why, he replies that that’s just who he is.

“I grew up in a genuinely Western family. My dad has been volunteering at the Calgary Stampeded for decades and now I do too. I’m actually the first fourth-generation volunteer the Stampede has ever had. I love it,” said Cole.

His cowboy persona certainly came to the fore earlier this winter when he was part of an equestrian skijoring event in Banff. To the extent that people are familiar with skijoring at all, they are familiar with it featuring a dog (or a team of dogs) pulling a human on skies behind, but technically any animal (or even motor vehicles) can be used, and the horse skijoring in Banff created some buzz on social media.

“It was awesome, a pretty unique event....I love horse. I love skiing and this was the best of both worlds,” said Cole.

As winter winds down, Cole still has several moguls events before the season is over. When the Pioneer caught up with Cole, he was preparing for a NorAm moguls event in Val Saint-Come, Quebec and was next headed to another NorAm race in Vermont.

Cole Carey celebrates with his parents Neil and Julie at the Canada Winter Games. Photo by Justin Brown

Panorama’s ‘Cowboy’ Cole Carey grabs a hat trick of medals (a gold, silver, and a bronze) at the Canada Winter Games.

Photo by Jeff Beairsto

Cole Carey catches some air while skijoring behind horses in Banff earlier this winter. Photo by Daniel Hagen

Be wary of scams

By Joanne McQuarrie editor@columbiavalleypioneer.com

Being defrauded of money and property is financially and emotionally devastating. There have already been 6,610 reports of fraud in Canada as of January 31 this year; victims of fraud numbers 3,923 and money lost to fraud is at $43.6 million, says a Government of Canada website.

Seeing such high numbers already in the early part of the year is disturbing.

Statistics from 2022 show how deeply scams and fraud having seeped into society. There were 91,190 reports of fraud; victims of fraud numbered 57,055 and $531 million was lost to fraud.

A huge variety of scams and fraud happen in Canada and new ones are invented daily, the site reads. Many attempt to imitate government services to gain access to your personal and financial information. For example, there are messages claiming to be from Service Canada or 1 800 O-Canada, or from the Canada Revenue Agency, Immigration, Refugees, Citizenship Canada and Canada Border Services Agency.

There are phone call scams, email scams, prepaid cards, bitcoin, and e-transfer payment scams, text messages/instant messaging scams, mail scams, scams aimed at newcomers to Canada, COVID-19 scams and fraud. People have had their social insurance numbers used, along with their birth certificate, driver’s license, health card other province or territory-issued documents, immigration documents and passports.

Grandparent scams have been been in the spotlight lately. A Government of BC website says these are also called grandchild scams and they target seniors. There’s usually a phone call from someone who pretends to be your grandchild. “If you get a call like this, be prepared: the scammer may already know your grandchild’s name and what your grandchild calls you (for example, a nickname like Nona or Grampy),” the site reads. “Acting as your grandchild, the scammer claims to be in trouble and asks for your help. The scammer may try to convince you that your grandchild was in a car accident or has been arrested. You may be asked to wire money right away, without telling anyone.”

If you get a call like this don’t wire money or give the caller any further information. Hang up and call your grandchild or another family member to find out what’s going on.

For this and other kinds of scams, report the incident to the RCMP; get a file number for future reference. If you find suspicious activity on your credit report, update your file with the RCMP. Contact the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre; call, toll free, 1 888 495-8501; email info@antifraudcentre.ca or go over information at Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre website. Contact your financial institution. Tell family, friends, neighbours and co-workers if you’ve been scammed. You might prevent it from happening to someone else.

Athalmer village in flood

Challenges remain including gender-based violence

Dear Editor:

International Women’s Day (March 8) is a global day celebrating the social, economic, cultural, and political achievements of women. The day also marks a call to action for accelerating women’s equality. IWD 2023’s campaign theme is #EmbraceEquity. Equality (equal rights, status and opportunities) is the goal, and equity (fairness and justice) is the means to get there.

While there has been progress with gender equality over the last decades, many challenges remain including gender-based violence. The United Nations states that violence against women and girls is one of the most prevalent human rights violations in the world. Yet it remains shrouded in a culture of silence. Still.

As a woman impacted by abuse, I have been reflecting on this year’s theme and wondering how to boldly use my voice and responsibly be an ally. Although heart-wrenching and disturbing, I decided that sharing just a few of so many women’s stories of inequity from 2022 may be the most revealing of truth and a call to action:

Kyla Frenchman, a mother from the Thunderchild First Nation, told police that her child’s father was dangerous and she was worried for the baby’s safety. Her child is now dead, and the father has been charged with second-degree murder.

Elnaz Hajtamiri was assaulted by two men and hit

in the head with a frying pan; three weeks later, she was abducted and is still missing. Her ex-boyfriend has been charged with criminal harassment and kidnapping.

There have been so many cases of rape in the capital region of Kyiv, Ukraine, doctors have had to order 5,000 pregnancy termination pills for women and girls as young as fourteen.

Lorelei Williams, MMIWG advocate, explains “When I look at reconciliation, the genocide actually has to stop. Not a lot of people know this or want to believe this but it is still happening.”

There is almost no international response to the Taliban’s intensifying attack on women as almost every human right disappears. Journalist Yalda Ali reports “They’ve brought back the burka, banned women from driving and backtracked on girl’s education.”

An Ottawa woman’s victim impact statement at convicted sex offender Jacob Hoggard’s sentencing hearing reveals “the assault took away my worth, my privacy, my body, my confidence and my voice.” She was also traumatized by the court proceedings as the defence tried to undermine her credibility.

One in three women and girls in our own Columbia Valley either has or will experience gender-based violence in her lifetime.

Carolyn Rogers,

Continued on page 7

Invermere BC

Frank Richardson’s store, Lim Man Yu’s store, old Catholic Church, McGuinesse’s House, Coronation Hotel (far east on southside (not in order). Circa 1933. Courtesy of Windermere District Historical Society

Wildlife extermination is an industry says reader

Dear Editor:

The way it’s going soon there won’t be any wildlife. This all started when the Harper government gagged or fired Canada’s science department, handing the responsibility of wildlife management to the private business sector—to try to make a buck on. Now wildlife extermination is an industry, with the more marketable animals getting rounded up and relocated to privately-owned game farms. It’s happening right now under your nose. Big business and your government have cooked up a plan to turn wildlife into money—and you’re not in it.

Powerful business associations for industries such as logging and cattle ranching, mostly regard wildlife a nuisance cutting into profit, competition they’d like to get rid of—or at least lock-up in cages and charge admission. Now about the only government-approved “conservation” program we have is culls and relocations. Most troubling, the public has essentially been eliminated from any of the decision-making. Change that. Get involved.

Bryan Stawychny Edgewater

- 10 a.m. This free family-friendly event will be held at the Radium Centre. We have a lot of fun activities planned, including an outdoor scavenger hunt, goodie bags, and crafts. Our special guest, the Easter Bunny, will make an appearance and will be available for photos. Refreshments will also be provided.

This week’s column was written by Jacqueline Wagner, director of the Radium Public Library, which is located at 4683 Stanley Street. Call 250-347-2434 for more information.

We have a busy spring planned at the Radium Library! We offer a range of free programming and services for all ages. Every Tuesday from 1 - 3:30 p.m. we host an ‘Art in the Afternoon’ program where local artists and art enthusiasts gather at the library to work on individual projects. We also offer a Storytime every Wednesday at 11:15 a.m., and on Thursdays the Columbia Basin Alliance for Literacy provides one-on-one tech support at the library from 2 - 4 p.m. We also now offer a weekly craft program on Saturdays at 10:30 a.m. On Saturday, March 11, we will be offering a St. Patrick’s Day-themed craft, and on Saturday, March 18 we have a STEAM-themed activity. And on Wednesday, March 22 we will be offering a scrapbooking workshop for seniors from 2 - 4 p.m. We are also hosting a free tax clinic through the CRA’s Community Volunteer Income Tax program until April 30. Those with a modest income and simple tax income are eligible for assistance. The Radium Library is also excited to announce that we will be hosting our third annual Easter Egg Scavenger Hunt on Saturday, April 8 from 9

Friends of the Radium Library Update

By Donna Tunney

The Friends of the Radium Library is a group of volunteers who promote, support, and fundraise for the Radium Hot Springs Library. Check out our new Facebook page @ Friends of Radium Library. Hit that ‘LIKE’ button to stay in the loop for all our exciting, upcoming events. And mark these dates on your calendar because you won’t want to miss a minute. On the Saturday of the May long weekend, we’re repeating our successful annual yard sale, in partnership with the Radium Fire Department and the Radium Rotary Club. If you have household items, toys, tools, and sporting equipment you no longer need, donate them to us. Better for you, better for the environment, and the library will get more books to share among its patrons. You included! Contact us on Facebook, or at 250-347-2434, if you have items to contribute. Look for our pop-up book sales throughout the summer - especially at the Columbia Valley Classics Show and Shine in September. Cars and books? They’re a great combination. Reading is the perfect way to enjoy a stopover when you’re on the road, whether you’re relaxing in the hot springs, chilling at the campgrounds, or enjoying Radium’s popular car show.

8th Annual

Hospice Gala

Celebrating the 10th Anniversary of the Hospice Society of the Columbia Valley.

Theme: “For the Love of Chocolate”

Invermere formally adopts new sewer parcel tax

Resident will soon see notices in mail about new tax that will pay for desperately needed sewer work

By Steve Hubrecht steve@columbiavalleypioneer.com

Sautrday, April 22nd, 2023

Doors open at 5:30 p.m.

Eagle Ranch Resort

Tickets $60

Casual or going out for dinner dress. Buy 8 tickets for a table reservation.

Purchase your tickets at HospiceSocietyCV.com or call the Hospice o ce at 778-526-5143 or drop by the o ce between noon and 4 p.m.

Proceeds

Celebrating the 10th Anniversary of the Hospice Society of the

First Annual Golf Tournament

April 22nd, 2023

18 holes Scramble, with cart and box lunch

Registration 9:15 to 10 a.m. Start time at 10:30 a.m. $140/per person.

Purchase your tickets at HospiceSocietyCV.com or call the Hospice office at 778-526-5143 or drop by the office between noon and 4 p.m.

Hosted by:

It’s official: Invermere has a new parcel tax to pay for sewer and water system upgrades.

The tax amounts to about $50 per parcel, and was the subject of a Pioneer news story two weeks ago, which outlined that the tax will pay for phase two of the water and sewer upgrades along 13th Avenue. Invermere undertook the first phase of work in summer 2021. The second phase began last summer, has been on pause while the ground is frozen this winter, and will be finished early this spring.

The total cost of the second phase is $3.3 million, which the district funded partly by using its own reserves, and partly by borrowing $1.5 million. It’s this $1.5 million in debt that the new parcel tax will pay for.

Local residents should get notice about the tax in the mail very soon, if they haven’t already.

Invermere council has been discussing the borrowing and the resultant parcel tax for almost a year now, and during the Tuesday, February 28 council meeting, they voted to adopt the proposed bylaw making the tax official.

As Invermere chief financial officer, Karen Cote, outlined at the meeting there was “a very public, monthslong process through 2022” that has now culminated in the bylaw.

Councillor Kayja Becker asked if all Invermere residents connected to the sewer system are subject to the parcel tax, with those on their own septic systems exempt. Cote responded that yes, that’s correct, but added an important additional qualifier: not only parcels in Invermere that are connected to the sewer system but also those that are capable of being connected to the sewer system, will need to pay the tax. This means that currently vacant lots, with no buildings on them, but which could be hooked up to the district’s sewer system in the future, will also be charged.

During the previous council meeting on Feb. 14, Invermere chief administrative officer (CAO), Andrew Young, underscored just how badly needed the upgrades on 13th Avenue were, saying that “we’d reached the point where where (the sewer and water system) was operating under surcharge — that is pressure — rather than gravity, as it is supposed to,” and adding that as a result, sewage backup into houses was a very real threat.

During the Feb. 14 meeting, when the bylaw got its first three readings, Invermere councillor Gerry Taft has said “$50 a year — that’s a bit more than $4 a month — is not a lot to pay in order to not having sewage backing up into homes”.

Wings Over the Rockies seeks star guest next year

By Steve Hubrecht steve@columbiavalleypioneer.com

The annual Wings Over the Rockies Festival is gunning to bring in a very high profile guest speaker for next year’s festival.

The popular nature festival has been a staple of the Columbia Valley’s spring events calendar since the 1990s; the 26th edition is set for May 8 to 14 this year. However, organizers are already thinking about the 2024 version of the festival, when they hope to bring renowned science journalist, Bob MacDonald, to town as a speaker.

MacDonald is famous across the country as the host of the Quirks & Quarks radio program, and is a member of the Order of Canada.

Invermere council enthusiastically threw its weight behind the plan during last week council meeting, when they unanimously agreed to give a letter of support to the festival as it pursues a grant to help secure MacDonald as a guest. The festival is applying for some of the recently-announced new grant funding from the provincial BC Fairs, Festival and Events Fund to help offset the cost of getting MacDonald on the festival’s program bill.

“Wings has plans for a big name speaker in 2024 as a catalyst to increasing our ticket buying base which has been diminishing, and thus, will incur larger than usual expenses to make that happen. We are planning to bring in Bob McDonald of CBC fame,” wrote festival volunteer, Joan Galloway, in a letter to council.

Councillors were more than happy to send a letter of support to Galloway.

“It’s a great event for the valley,” said Invermere mayor, Al Miller, adding that council supporting the festival in any way it can is “just the right thing to do”.

at Pynelogs

Getty Images

All Proceeds to benefit Hospice Society of the Columbia Valley

Columbia Valley

3-Course Meal • Live Entertainment by Bryant Olender Silent, Live and Dessert Auction • Free chocolate tasting provided by Wild Mountain Chocolate

All

to benefit Hospice Society of the Columbia Valley

Hospice Society of the Columbia Valley Presents

Spring Ktunaxa language course added due to popular demand

By Chadd Cawson Local Journalism Initiative Reporter

New 12-week session began on March 1

it down to the next generation of Ktunaxa Peoples.

Stevens said, “It is a step towards truth and reconciliation. It makes me feel that we are finally being recognized as an independent Nation, because we are not only in Canada but also in Montana, Idaho, and Washington, in the Northwestern United States.”

“It is very important to me to mentor and demonstrate to my children and grandchildren a pride in our language and culture and for them to know that I am working to bring it back,” he continued. It is my hope for

the teachers and participants to understand and practice the culture and language itself in all parts of their lives so that the language is right in their minds- that they can speak it. So that they can speak with the children in Ktunaxa at all times. This is the only way that we can learn so that we think and speak in Ktunaxa – that we take back what was taken from us. It is important that everyone is involved in bringing back the language, everyone living in Ktunaxa ‘amakis.”

Ktunaxa Elder, George Stevens, outside Columbia House where he resides, is a student in Elder Alfred Joseph’s Ktunaxa language course, will be co-teaching this term’s fifth class on March 29. The sign behind him reads in Ktunaxa as well as other Indigenous languages: We are grateful to elders in the Ktunaxa, Shuswap, and Métis Communities for gifting us with these words of welcome.

Indigenous languages such as Ktunaxa were some of the parts of Indigenous Peoples’ culture stripped away during the time of residential schools. Due to the popularity of the winter Ktunaxa language course, in partnership with Columbia Basin Environmental Educational Network (CBEEN), with Ktunaxa facilitators, Elder Alfred Joseph and Mara Nelson, a second one has been added. The classes are underway and run virtually on Wednesday nights at 7 p.m. mountain standard time (MST).

“It is my hope for the teachers and participants to understand and practice the culture and language itself in all parts of their lives so that the language is right in their minds- that they can speak it,” ”

George Stevens, Ktunaxa Elder

“There is no other place or time that I need to be in than right now,” said Mara Nelson, Ktunaxa Language educator and course developer. “This momentum needs to keep going. Beginning in 2024, we will be offering a second, higher level of learning for those that have completed the first session.”

CBEEN executive director, Duncan Whittick, said the first course held in 2022 had 50 participants; this past winter course had 80. Due to its rising popularity, an additional 60 spots were added to this year’s second Ktunaxa language course. Throughout these 12 weeks participants learn the sounds, words, and some history of the Ktunaxa Language.

“Learning local language is such an important step towards a deeper understanding of local Indigenous knowledge and perspectives,” said Whittick. “It also is a way of showing respect for local Indigenous people and communities. It has been wonderful to have both Indigenous and non-Indigenous participants learning language through this course together.”

Ktunaxa Elder and Columbia House resident, George Stevens, who has been working diligently to bring back the language, is one of Joseph’s students, and will be co-teaching this term’s fifth class on March 29. Stevens, a survivor of St. Eugene’s residential school said he not only wants to learn more about what’s been taken by residential schools, but through his own learning of the sacred Ktunaxa language, he wants to be a part of passing

Don’t Wait ONLY

starting at $519,900

VISIT US IN OUR SHOW HOME

Thursday to Sunday 11:00am – 4:30pm or by appointment #21 – 1904 Pineridge Mtn Link, Invermere 250-688-1247 Call today for more details or to book your personal viewing.

•

Photo by Chadd Cawson

OUT OF OFFICE…

Innovative Low-Carbon Business Park to Address Retail and Commercial Needs in Columbia Valley

A new initiative aimed at addressing the need for additional retail, office, and commercial facilities in the Columbia Valley has been launched by the Light House Development Co-op. The group consists of 7 companies that recognize the need to create sustainable solutions for businesses in the area. The result of their efforts is the Columbia Valley Low-Carbon Business Park, a model for a sustainable business park powered entirely by renewable energy sources.

The business park will feature a mix of retail, office, and commercial facilities (staff housing is being considered too) connected within a microgrid powered by wind and solar energy, with low-energy and low-carbon products such as LED lighting and heat pumps. The park will also utilize hydrogen for back-up energy storage and Zero Emission Vehicle (ZEV) fuel sources, and will provide combined heat and power through electrolysis.

Phase 1 of the project, which includes the construction of the

first round of facilities, will take place over the next 24 months. These facilities aim to meet Step 5 building code standards. In phase 2, the park will generate additional electricity on-site to establish electric and hydrogen fueling stations for zero-emission vehicles. These zero-emission fuels will be available to tenants to help them transition to zero-emission fleets and low or net-neutral carbon operations. Phase 3 of the project will open additional electric and hydrogen vehicle fuelling stations to the general public.

Businesses in need of new or expanded facilities are encouraged to complete a survey by March 15th. The Lighthouse Development Co-op will then contact survey respondents in April to discuss further details of the Columbia Valley Low-Carbon Business Park. The initiative represents a new path towards sustainability and equity in the Columbia Valley.

To participate in the survey please visit: www.kootenaysolar. com/facilities

WHAT’S HAPPENING?

cvevents.ca

POWERED BY THE COLUMBIA VALLEY CHAMBER

ursday, March 9

• 9 a.m.: StrongStart/CAP-C at Edgewater Elementary. Tuesdays and Thursdays, 9 - 11:30 a.m. Join this free, drop-in program for children ages 0 to 5 and their caregivers.

• 10 a.m.: Parent & Tot Connect Frater Landing. Parents and their young children (ages 0-6) are invited to this FREE drop-in program! 10-11:30 a.m. Tuesdays and Thursdays.

• 10:15 a.m.: Tech Time at the Invermere Public Library. Are you an adult or senior needing some help with your computer, phone, or tablet? We have one-on-one help available for you!

• 10:30 a.m.: Senior's Fitness at the Columbia Valley Centre on Thursdays 10:30-11:30 a.m., $2 drop-in.

• 12 p.m. - 1 p.m.: Senior’s Lunch. Join friends, make new friends and have a great lunch! To reserve call Jan, 250-342-1196. 525 13th Street, Invermere.

• 2 p.m. - 3 p.m.: Senior's Tea. All community members welcome to stop by the library for a cup of tea and a chat! Every 2nd and 4th Thursday of the month at 2 p.m. 646 4th Street, Invermere.

• 2 p.m.: Tech Time at the Radium Public Library. Are you an adult or senior needing some help with your computer, phone, or tablet? We have one-on-one help available for you!

• 3 p.m.: FREE Youth Drop-In Fun at the Summit Youth Centre Hub. If you are between the grades of 7-12, the Summit Youth Centre is your place to meet, hang out and enjoy some great times with your friends.

• 5:30 p.m. - 7 p.m.: International Women's Day Social. This event is a great opportunity for you to connect and network with other business women in the Columbia Valley, all while enjoying a lovely setting and delicious refreshments. 9581 Eagle Ranch Trail, Invermere. Register at www. cvchamber.ca

• 6:45 p.m.: Texas Hold 'Em Poker Tournament at the Invermere Legion every Thursday for members and guests. $30 buy-in.

• 7:30 p.m.: Trivia Night at the Windermere Whitehouse Pub. Thursday night is TRIVIA NIGHT in Windermere! Hosted by Mandi Cox, $3/person, teams of more than 6 will be split into two groups.

Friday, March 10

• 9:15 a.m.: StrongStart at Eileen Madson Primary School. Every Monday and Friday, every 1st and 3rd Wednesday. Join this free, drop-in program for children ages 0 to 5 and their caregivers!

• 10:30 a.m.: Family Storytime at the Invermere Public Library. Join us at the library each week for stories, songs and a craft!

• 1 p.m.: FREE Youth Drop-In Fun at the Summit Youth Centre Hub. Grades of 7-12, the Summit Youth Centre is your place to meet, hang out and enjoy some great times with your friends. FREE fun!

• 7 p.m. - 9 p.m.: Drop-In Adult Parkour. Adults are invited to drop-in for a fun parkour sessions! Every 2nd Friday, 7-9 p.m., $20/person. Unit 6, 1340 Industrial Road #3, Invermere.

• 9 p.m.: Karaoke at the Windermere Whitehouse Pub. Fridays are Karaoke nights. Ages 19+ Hosted by Mandi Cox, 9 pm-midnight.

• 3 p.m. - midnight: Wings & Things at the Legion, pub grub done right! 525 13th Street, Invermere.

• 6:30 p.m. - midnight: Meat Draw and 50/50 in the Legion! Members and guests welcome! 525 13th Street, Invermere.

• 7 p.m. - 9 p.m.: Dynamic Intuitive Archery Speed Shooting. Come try your hand every Friday at the Bisco Community Hall. First lesson is FREE! Call Luraina at 250-688-1451 to register. 4930 Dorney Road, Brisco.

Saturday, March 11

• 10:30 a.m.: LEGO/Duplo Club Invermere Public Library. We'll have Lego, Duplo, big blocks & more out to play with on Saturday mornings!

• 10:30 a.m.: Pokemon Club at Main Street Fun & Games will be hosting a weekly club for ages 7+! Reading pro ciency is required.

• 3 p.m. - midnight: Wings & Things at the Legion, pub grub done right! 525 13th Street, Invermere

• 6:30 p.m. - midnight: Meat Draw and 50/50 in the Legion! Members and guests welcome! 525 13th Street, Invermere

Sunday, March 12

• 2 p.m. - midnight.: Cards, Cribbage and Darts. Who dosen't like to play cards or throw some darts with friends? Come to the Legion and have some fun! Members and guests welcome! 525 13th Street, Invermere.

• 2 p.m. – 4 p.m.: Valley Talent Show 2023. It's back, after a 28 year hiatus. Sunday, March 12, 2023, 2-4 p.m. FREE to attend! 646 4th Street, Invermere.

• 3 p.m. - midnight.: Wings & Things at the Legion, pub grub done right! 525 13th Street, Invermere

• 7 p.m.: Live Music at the Horsethief Creek Pub & Eatery every Sunday evening, 7-9pm! Accompanied minors are permitted. No cover

Monday, March 13

• 9:15 a.m.: StrongStart at Eileen Madson Primary School. Every Monday and Friday, every 1st and 3rd Wednesday. Join this free, drop-in program for children ages 0 to 5 and their caregivers!

• 10 - 11 .a.m.: Senior's Yoga at the Columbia Valley Centre on Mondays and Wednesdays, $2 drop-

in. 646 4th Street, Invermere.

• 3 p.m.: Youth Drop-In at The Edge in Edgewater. Youth from grades 4-8 are invited to drop-in for fun with the Summit Youth Hub at The Edge every Monday and Wednesday! 3-8 p.m.

• 4 p.m.: FREE Youth Drop-In Fun: LGBTQ+ Summit Youth Centre Hub. If you are between the grades of 7-12, the Summit Youth Centre is your place to meet, hang out and enjoy some great times with your friends. FREE fun! Mondays are for LGBTQ+ and allies!

• 5 p.m.: Industry Night at the Windermere Whitehouse Pub. Free pool + cheap drinks for resort and restaurant sta !

• 6:30 p.m.: Poker at the Pub. Butter hosts poker night at The Station Pub every Monday! $20 buy-in. Winners get the pot. We chip up $20 for charity: no $ goes to the pub.

• 6 p.m. - 8 p.m.: Dynamic Intuitive Archery Speed Shooting. Come try your hand at Dynamic Intuitive Archery Speed Shooting! Call Doug at 250-347-9048 to register.

Tuesday, March 14

• 9 a.m.: StrongStart/CAP-C at Edgewater Elementary. Tuesdays and Thursdays, 9 - 11:30 a.m. Join this free, drop-in program for children ages 0 to 5 and their caregivers.

• 10 a.m.: Parent & Tot Connect at Frater Landing. Parents and their young children (ages 0-6) are invited to this FREE drop-in program!

• 10:30 a.m.: Homeschool Meetup at the Invermere Public Library. All homeschool families welcome to join.

• 10:30 a.m.: Senior's Fitness at the Columbia Valley Centre on Tuesdays 10:30-11:30 a.m., $2 dropin.

• 1 p.m.: Artists' Gathering at the Radium Public Library. Radium Library is hosting weekly get-togethers for budding artists of all forms and skill levels! Bring your own supplies. No registration required.

• 3 p.m.: FREE Youth Drop-In Fun at the Summit Youth Centre Hub. If you are between the grades of 7-12, then SYC is your place to meet, hang out and enjoy some great times with your friends. FREE fun!

• 7 p.m.: 19+ Games Night Ullr Bar. Games Nights every Tuesday at Ullr Bar! 7 p.m. start time, $5/ card. Huge prizes every week! Ages 19+, drink specials available.

Wednesday, March 15

• 9 - 11 a.m.: StrongStart. Join this free, drop-in program for children ages 0 to 5 and their caregivers. Songs, stories, play centers, crafts, snacks, and more! 4891 Beatty Ave, Canal Flats.

• 9:15 -11:45 a.m.: StrongStart. Every Monday & Friday, every 1st and 3rd Wednesday. Join this free, drop-in program for children ages 0 to 5 and their caregivers! Songs, stories, play centers, crafts, snacks, and more! 2001-15th Avenue, Invermere,.

• 10 a.m.: Parent & Tot Connect at the Canal Flats Village O ce. Parents and their young children (ages 0-6) are invited to this FREE drop-in program!

• 3 p.m.: FREE Youth Drop-In Fun Summit Youth Centre Hub. If you are between the grades of 7-12, the Summit Youth Centre is your place to meet, hang out and enjoy some great times with your friends. FREE fun!

• 10 a.m. - 11 a.m.: Senior's Yoga at the Columbia Valley Centre on Mondays & Wednesdays, $2 drop-in. 646 4th Street, Invermere.

12th Annual General Meeting

Thursday, March 16th, 6 p.m.

You are invited! Please visit our website for more details

www.lakeambassadors.ca/2023agm/

Little Rascals-Columbian

Ground Squirrels

THE WILD FILES

It’s our nature

HEALTH REL ATED PROJEC TS Spring Funding 2023

The Invermere Health Care Auxiliar y Society is pleased to invite non profit organizations to apply for funding for projects that will enhance health care and healthy living in our community

The source of funding for the IHCAS is the Invermere Thrift Store, 130 volunteers work ing tirelessly to strengthen health initiatives in the Columbia Valley Applicants are required to be qualified donees as required by CRA. For Funding Applications and instructions and any questions please email: seona@shaw ca

Deadline for applications being received is March 24th, 2023. Successful applicants will be notified mid April 2023

P.S. We will be look ing for students to work summer shifts in the store Email IHCASAP@outlook.com for more information.

By Chadd Cawson Local Journalism Initiative Reporter

Groundhogs may get all the limelight, but it is their little cousin, Columbian ground squirrels that we see more frequently popping up on the unceded territories of the Secwépemc, and Ktunaxa Peoples, and the land chosen as home by the Métis Peoples of British Columbia (B.C.). With 38 species of ground squirrels across North America, Columbian ground squirrels often referred to as gophers are the second largest members of the genus Urocitellus also known as the Marmotini tribe which aside from groundhogs also include marmots, chipmunks, and prairie dogs. Out of all ground squirrels the Columbian is the only species that are true herbivores, primarily eating succulent vegetation. Their average life span is two to three years but they live up to 10 years in the wild.

The colours of these little furry rascals can vary from a dark or reddish brown to grey, including olive tones. Their undersides are a lighter grey or often white. Columbian ground squirrels are typically 72 centimetres (cm) long and weigh an average of eight kilograms (kg). They have long slender bodies for their short stature, their legs are short, but they have long claws making them excellent diggers. Found in alpine and sub-alpine areas, their preferred habitats are rocky or grassy fields. Columbian ground squirrels love to burrow underneath it, where they build their homes and hibernate.

Creative Critters

Next to the Arctic ground squirrel, the Columbian ground squirrel is the second largest out of 38 species of ground squirrels across North America. These cute critters are known for being fearless and friendly around humans and for standing at attention when taking in their surroundings.

The first sitting of the Parcel Tax Review Panel will be held at the Municipal Office at 914 – 8th Avenue, Invermere, B.C. on Thursday, March 16, 2023 at 10 a.m. The Parcel Tax Review Panel may review and correc t the Parcel Tax Roll and hear complaints on one or more of the following grounds:

• there is an error or omission respec ting a name or address on the parcel tax roll; there is an error or omission respec ting the inclusion of a parcel;

• there is an error or omission respec ting the taxable area or the taxable frontage of a parcel;

• an exemption has been improperly allowed or disallowed

The Parcel Tax Roll will be open for inspec tion at the Municipal Office during regular office hours

A complaint shall not be heard by the review panel unless notice of the appeal has been made in writing to the Direc tor of Finance of the Distric t of Invermere, Box 339, Invermere, B.C. V0A 1K0 by 10 a.m. on March 14, 2023.

Karen L. Coté

Direc tor of Finance

These little rascals have been described as quite clever and creative for the intricate burrows they claw out. Mammalogist, Vernon Orlando Bailey, who studied Columbian ground squirrels at an elevation of 2,100 metres (m) in Glacier National Park, found an adult female bringing up soil daily to the burrow’s main entrance. Upon further examination of the burrow, it was discovered that aside from the main entrance, it had two alternates which led into two main shafts of the burrow, 89 millimetres (mm) in diameter. Bailey describes that on top of various chambers that were dug out, a nest made of leaves and grass was constructed 2.4 m from the burrow’s main entrance.

Sleeping beauties

A group of Columbian ground squirrels is called a colony or scurry. They hibernate eight to nine months of the year in their burrows, which they may occupy for

many years. During hibernation, a scurry positions itself vertically in a tight ball. Their temperature drops, respirations become scarcer, and the group’s heart rate slows significantly during this time. The first to emerge from hibernation are the adult males, who need to regrow their testes for breeding because they shrink in size and cease sperm production during their long underground slumber. Mating and social interaction in the spring can involve courtship ground squirrel kisses of their noses and mouths connecting. These affectionate greetings last one to five seconds, while copulation happens underground. Females wake up a week after the male Columbian ground squirrels do. Females begin breeding as early as six to eight months of age and raise one litter per year that can contain five to seven kits which are born blind, naked, and toothless. After the first week their weight doubles, and by day 17, their eyes begin to open.

Soldiering squirrels

The traditional Inuit name for ground squirrels is ‘siksik’ which stems from the unique alarm cry they make. Columbian ground squirrels are known for standing at attention like little soldiers when taking in their surrounding and on alert for predators such as the grizzly bear, coyote, and grey wolf, to name a few. In many Indigenous cultures, ground squirrels are a symbol of resourcefulness and preparation. Some American tribes believe them to have a trickster spirit. Hunting ground squirrels was popular for many Indigenous Peoples. Some First Nations and Tribes often skinned and roasted them, while children would tan their hides to make toy tipis.

Deadline for First Nations Drinking Water Settlement claim extended

By Chadd Cawson Local Journalism Initiative Reporter

First Nations and Indigenous individuals can breathe a sigh relief as the deadline to submit for compensation with the First Nations Drinking Water Settlement has now been extended. The First Nations Drinking Water Settlement is a settlement (agreement) between the Government of Canada (Canada) and certain First Nations and their members. Any Indigenous individual or First Nation affected by a long-term drinking water advisory that lasted for at least one year between November 20, 1995, and June 20, 2021, will now have until March 7, 2024, to submit their claims.

“The extension will be excellent for our members to be able to submit a claim,” said Shuswap Band Chief, Barb Cote. “There was little time provided for Shuswap to be able to engage with our communities and guide them on this process. The extension will not affect dates of compensation being delivered to our community members.”

All claims are received and reviewed by Deloitte, the acting Administrator for the First Nations Drinking Water Settlement. Deloitte is a global provider of audit and assurance, consulting, financial advisory, risk advisory, tax, and related services. Claims for individual damages submitted before March 7, 2023, will be assessed by the Administrator, and eligible payments will be processed. Claims submitted between March 8, 2023, and March 7, 2024, will be assessed, and eligible payments will be processed after March 7, 2024. All claims for specified injuries compensation will be processed after March 7, 2024.

Photo by Chadd Cawson

Columbia Lake Recreation Centre to celebrate opening on March 10

By Chadd Cawson

Local Journalism Initiative Reporter

After much anticipation and a few delays such as the pandemic, the Columbia Lake Recreation Centre, located on Akisqnuk First Nation between Windermere and Fairmont along Highway 93, will be opening on March 10 from 1 to 3 p.m., open to all residents and visitors. There will be speakers and refreshments served. ?akisq?nuk in the Ktunaxa language refers to the two lakes (Windermere Lake and Columbia Lake).

“The original opening date was supposed to be June 27, 2019,” said Jason Nicholas, recreation coordinator. “We were only open a short time until COVID rules and regulations appeared, and we were unfortunately forced to close our doors. Staffing issues have also caused a delay as well, but we’re happy to announce that we are now fully staffed.”

The centre houses a gymnasium, elevated running track and fitness room and offers open gym time as well. It is currently open Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. After the hard opening on March 10, the centre will also be open on Saturdays and Sundays from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Membership and drop-in fees are still to be determined.

Since its opening in 2019 this Columbia Basin Trust-supported project, and the biggest the Akisqnuk community has ever undertaken, has not only been a space for recreation and celebration but has also provided jobs and training for community members. Nicholas said the inspiration behind the centre was the legacy of sports in the Columbia Valley that goes back to the 1970’s and ‘80’s with the ball clubs and hockey teams from the reserves.

“Sports have been a positive influence on many of us that grew up watching the

2021. Individuals can also apply for specified injuries compensation for injuries they experienced while complying with drinking water advisories.

teams and playing when we got our chance,” said Nicholas. “It brings us great joy to give an opportunity to the youth coming up today with a beautiful rec centre, something that would have been appreciated in our youth.”

Invitations for the long-awaited opening were sent out to chiefs from surrounding First Nations, Columbia Valley Metis, mayors from all surrounding towns, as well as school representatives, local media and youth club representatives and organizers.

“For the Akisqnuk community we have a sense of pride that we have a recreation centre that can be utilized by the whole Columbia Valley,” said Nicholas. “We want all valley residents and visitors to feel welcome and enjoy our facility with us, and realize it’s a safe, and fun place to be. We already have many youth from the community enjoying the facilities and it brings us happiness to see that.”

The deadline to submit claims for the First Nations Drinking Water Settlement has been extended to March 7, 2024.

To be eligible for compensation that First Nations Drinking Water Settlement will provide, individuals must be a member of a First Nation and must have been impacted by a long-term drinking water advisory (boil water, do not consume or do not use) that lasted at least a year between November 20, 1995, and June 20, 2021. For those submitting a claim on a loved one’s behalf they must not have passed away before November 20, 2017.

For claimants born before November 20, 1995, they must have ordinarily resided or lived on an impacted First Nation during a long-term drinking water advisory that lasted continuously for a year or longer, anytime between November 20, 2013, and June 20, 2021. If born on or after November 20, 1995, the claimant must have ordinarily resided/lived on an impacted First Nation during a long-term drinking water advisory that lasted continuously for a year or longer, anytime between November 20, 1995, and June 20,

D“The news in general for the settlement will benefit our community and membership immensely,” said Cote. “This will give Shuswap the ability it needs to begin discussions with Canada for a much-needed water system upgrade. This upgrade will benefit Shuswap members by being able to build more homes for our people, expand economic development and strive to create the respectful, prosperous, and self-sufficient community we know we deserve. First Nations still being plagued with unsafe drinking water in 2023 or that have no access to running water is disheartening. Canada must make the commitment that water on First Nation Reserves, meets the stricter of the federal requirements or provincial stan-

“The news in general for the settlement will benefit our community and membership immensely,” ”

Barb Cote, Shuswap Band Chief

dards governing residential water quality. For greater clarity, the nature and quantity must be sufficient to meet all standards required in a similarly situated Canadian home.”

There are resources available to support First Nations and individuals in completing their claims. The First Nations Drinking Water website includes a list of impacted First Nations and interactive guides which provide step by step instructions on completing and submitting a claim form.

Photo by Chadd Cawson

Columbia Lake Recreation Centre will be celebrating their hard opening on March 10 from 1 to 3 p.m. to welcome all Columbia Valley residents and visitors. Photo submitted

Local librarian spends winter in Japan as ski nanny

By Steve Hubrecht steve@columbiavalleypioneer.com

Nightly soaks in onsen hots springs, a restaurant with

a robot cat server, top-notch sushi from convenience stories, a fire festival, a sumo wrestling tournament, a hidden back alley bar that you enter through a door that looks like a cigarette vending machine, a dinner out in a wedding dress and a Mickey Mouse hat, and — oh yeah — endless, fluffy, waist deep-powder snow pretty much every other week. It’s been a winter to remember for Blair McFarlane.

Blair, who is well known to a great many kids up and down the Columbia Valley as a librarian at the Invermere Public Library and as a ski instructor at the Fairmont Hot Springs Resort ski hill, has been spending the season as a ‘ski nanny’ in Japan.

The opportunity came when Windermere residents James and Nadine Robb (who divide their time between the Columbia Valley and Japan, where they run a ski school and backcountry guiding business) decided they could use a hand with their two kids, Summer and Joey, for the winter. They posted on Facebook, looking for a live-in ski nanny. Blair applied for the job (and a threemonth leave from her full-time position at the library) and presto, little more than a month later she was jetting across the Pacific.

Mention the word ‘Japan’ to ski bums the world over, and they immediately think ‘Hokkaido’ — Japan’s northernmost island, land of legendary powder snow. But that’s not where Blair is. Instead she joined the Robbs in Hakuba, a valley and village in the Japanese Alps on Hons-

hu, Japan’s main island. It’s not as famous as Hokkaido and perhaps doesn’t get quite as much snow, but make no mistake — the powder is absurdly deep and absurdly abundant in Hakuba too. The mountains are steeper there, and it’s not quite as crowded as the big Hokkaido resorts.

Even though Blair is half a world away, the town of Hakuba is similar in many ways to Invermere, and the Japanese Alps are (aside from being covered with hardwood trees instead of conifers) are quite reminiscent of the Purcells.

“It reminds me a ton of home — ski towns are kind of universal, and draw similar kinds of people to them,” she said when the Pioneer talked to her across the Pacific.

TO SERVE YOU

Photo submitted

Al-Anon

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 or to speak with someone from our fellowship

CHEERS to the EMP PAC for organizing and ser ving such a wonder ful lunch to our school Cheers to From Scratch, AG Valley Foods, Sobeys and GFS & Sysco for making the meal possible!

Huge cheers to the people in Windermere for taking Ellanore (my dog) in for safe keeping after she ran away from her care keepers in the early morning hours of Februar y 24th I'm sorr y not sure of your names Ver y much appreciated

Cheers

Local View for the quick turnaround time on my business cards Excellent customer ser vice!

Cheers to Christine store manager at Canadian Tire for your help Thursday evening You were great and ver y patient with me O utstanding customer ser vice!

Cheers to Jaye and Heath at Selkirk Cellulars The ser vice is always top notch!!

Cheers to Jefferson Contrac ting They are fast, ver y good at what they do and ver y friendly.

Cheers to Megan at Home Hardware for the great customer ser vice.

Cheers to Mister Tire, Invermere Ver y late S aturday afternoon, I noticed tire pressure low on my truck Mike Heisler and crew at Mister Tire were about to close but they said they could x it but I didn' t have my wheel lock nut adapter. Mike said ... no problem go home and get it They waited for me and xed it! Great customer ser vice!

RO GER JEAN PAUL GAGNÈ

Januar y 6, 1941 - Februar y 26, 2023

Roger passed away peacefully at home after a battle with Pulmonar y Fibrosis and Dementia on Sunday, Februar y 26, 2023.

Roger leaves behind his wife Claudette, his daughters Fabienne (Dan), Annie (Travis), Nadia and his grandchildren Andre (Tara), Marianne and Danae (James).

A memorial ser vice will be held at McPherson Funeral Ser vices Cranbrook, BC on March 25th 2023 at 1 p.m. See the McPherson Funeral Ser vice Cranbrook website and Facebook for a more detailed obituar y

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Roger’s name to Alzheimer Society of B.C. or Canadian Pulmonar y Fibrosis Foundation.

Cheers to R ick Lake for being an amazing person. You have rescued me once again D on’t know what I would do without your help. You can x anything!

FOR SALE BY OWNER

Blind Repair Business For S ale

Small business operating in the Valley for 16 years, includes all tools needed for xing/installing blinds Includes ex tensive inventor y of par ts/cording in many sizes/colors

The per fec t little business to add to your existing business or great for semi-retired handyman! $8,000 Call Cathy

B B's Home & Design Ser vices

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

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

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

HAY FOR SALE

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

NOTICE TO REMOVE PRIVATE LAND FROM

WOODLOT 0481

Please be advised the William Pr y tula is proposing to remove 50 hectares of private land from Woodlot Licence W0481 located in the vicinity of Harrogate, BC, Parcel Identifier 007-180 -781 described as THAT PART OF THE NORTHWEST QUARTER OF SECTION 28 LYING NORTH AND EAST OF THE RIGHT OF WAY OF THE KOOTENAY CENTRAL RAILWAY AS SHOWN ON PLAN 1155

TOWNSHIP 23 RANGE 18 WEST OF THE 5TH MERIDIAN KOOTENAY DISTRICT EXCEPT (1) PARCEL A (REFERENCE PLAN 74066I) AND (2) PART INCLUDED IN PLAN 6516 AND (3) EPP74485.

Inquiries/comments to this proposal must be submitted to William (Bill) Pr y tula, 4419 13 St NE, Salmon Arm, BC V1E 1C9 by April 12, 2023

Only written inquiries received by the above date will be responded to

Information about this proposal can be obtained by contacting William (Bill) Prytula, 250 -344 -8183, wprytula@gmail.com.

DISTRIC T OF INVERMERE DISTRIC T OF INVERMERE

M P LO Y M E N T

The Distric t of Invermere is accepting applications for:

• Summer Students to work as par t of our Public Works Staff as Parks Labourers, Gardeners, and to suppor t outdoor events. These are temporar y, full-time positions (40 hours per week) within the CUPE Local 2982 bargaining unit.

General Hours of work: (days and hours may var y)

Parks Labourers

• 6:00am – 6:00 pm Monday to Friday with some weekend shifts

• Mondays - 4:00 pm – 12:00 am (Movies in the Mountains events in July & August)

Gardeners

• 6:00am – 6:00 pm Monday to Friday with some weekend shifts

Employment Term:

• Employment will commence in early May and will terminate in late August

Star ting Pay Rate:

• Star ting at $17.65 per hour

Please visit w w w.invermere.net for full job descriptions These positions will remain open until filled

Distric t of Invermere

Attn: Kindr y Luyendyk, Corporate O fficer PO Box 339

Invermere, BC, V0A 1K0

Email: corporateser vices@invermere.net

In winter, Hakuba is full of foreigners (particularly Australians and Brits) there to work in the ski industry, just like the Columbia Valley, and Blair has fast formed a circle of international friends.

Being a ski nanny is essentially a general nanny gig, with skiing on the side, described Blair. She helps out with the Robb family’s morning routine, getting the kids dressed, fed and out the door to hoikuen (a kind of Japanese day care) or to the ski hill. Some days she skis with the kids, other days she teaches ski lessons with Hakuba Ski Concierge (the ski school Nadine runs), and other times she’s off skiing on her own. In the afternoon she’s often with Summer and Joey again, playing and reading with them.

She’s also finding time to continue working, remotely, for the Invermere Public Library, and — as if that weren’t enough — she’s also completing an online Master’s degree in Library and Information Science through the University of Alberta. Busy? Yes, very much so, con-

cedes Blair, quickly adding that although it’s a tricky balancing act “I can’t really complain about doing grad school work in Japan”.

In the evening it’s dinner with the Robb family, watching a movie with the kids, and then heading out to an onsen (Japanese hot spring) to soak with friends, and perhaps hitting up some of Hakuba’s bars and restaurants. Or to bed early (not from exhaustion mind you, but more so to be up early and catch the first chairlift the next day).

Spending so much time with Summer and Joey has been a great experience, said Blair. “Both kids are little rippers on the mountain...Joey (age four) is fearless and loves the jumps and boxes. Summer (age six) was tearing up the powder down a black diamond run with me the other day.”

Blair has been a staple of the Fairmont ski school for more than a decade, and has found she loves being a ski instructor in Japan just as much. So far, in Hakuba, she’s taught Australians, Swedes, Americans, Hong Kongers, Singaporeans, Thais and a family from Qatar who are originally from Hungary (and who had, remarkably, driven through Invermere once, years before). “It’s been cool meeting people from all over the world and helping them learn how to ski,” Blair told the Pioneer.

There are ten ski resorts in the Hakuba valley, all interconnected by bus. Although each only has about 15 to 20 runs, together they pack a collective punch, and many of them conveniently have chairlifts right to gates leading to the backcountry.

And the backcountry is where Hakuba goes from great to exceptional. The snowpack is generally much more stable in Hakuba than in B.C. (although there is still avalanche risk), and Blair has been skiing backcountry in Japan much more than she ever has at home.

Her first foray off the resort was memorable: a storm had deposited 40 centimetres (cm) of fresh powder, prompting a 40-minute hike with a group of Canadian, English and German friends. Blair is fit, but struggled to keep pace, her heart thumping and legs burning. Then the descent: floating down through snow unlike anything in Canada, whizzing through birch and beeches trees with their branches spreading out overhead into snow-coated canopies. Clumps of bamboo bushes poked through the powder. Cutting through the ultra-dry snow was like slicing through silk.

“It was amazing. Awesome. You just fly through. It really is like floating,” said Blair.

The quaint nature of Hakuba suits Blair just fine, she said.

Continued on page18

If you possess the necessary qualifications

Photo submitted

“I think in North America generally there’s the impression that Japan is super high tech and advanced, but that’s not really the case (outside the cites). There is some cool tech stuff but everyone largely uses cash, everything is done on paper forms and through fax. The ski hill infrastructure is quite old. Ski hills came into fashion here in the 1980s and not a lot has changed since. The lifts are quite old, lots of chairlifts don’t have a safety bar,” she said. “The benefit, though, is that skiing is much cheaper here — around $60 for a day pass at one resort, $75 for the pass that gets you onto all ten resorts in the valley. I don’t think I had any real set impressions of Japan, but travelling is a good reminder that while people eat different foods or organize things a bit differently, we’re all just people, and in Hakuba in particular, everyone is keen to ski or board and enjoy the mountains.”

That said, Blair has had some experiences in Hakuba that just wouldn’t have happened in Invermere, for instance, being served in a restaurant by a three-foot high cat-shaped robot waiter. Or the fact that ATMs are closed sometimes, because Japanese people believe machines need a rest too.

Or finding a great ‘secret’ bar in a Hakuba back alley that is accessed by a door that is disguised as a cigarette vending machine. Blair and her friends thought it was, in fact, a cigarette vending machine. Then they watched another group of people walk up the ‘machine’ and slide it open, revealing a bar behind. Then there was the dinner Blair attended along with Nadine and another friend, in which she wore a wedding dress and a Mickey Mouse ball cap. Everybody was given 15 minutes and $15 to purchase an outfit for another member of the group. Hakuba has plenty of secondhand stores with great prices, and, as it turns out, some unusual dinner attire. “We were all out, dressing in these outfits — it was certainly a fun night,” recalled Blair.

The food in Hakuba has been delicious — yakiniku barbeque, top-notch ramen, Japanese curry and rice, and outstanding sushi everywhere, including from 7/11 and other local convenience stores.

There’s also the onsens – traditional Japanese hot springs.

“They are all over, and are a way different set up than Radium or Fairmont. First off, they are all nude baths — separated into men and women’s baths. You undress and have a shower first. Everyone gets very clean before they go in for a soak. It was a bit weird at first, but you get over it quickly and they are so nice after a day on the slopes,” explained Blair. “There’s around ten to fifteen in Hakuba alone. Some have

so their kids were amped up with excitement on Christmas morning. Later the family held a huge potluck dinner for all their ski school’s instructors, with roast chicken and the fixings (but sushi too).

Blair has been able to make a few trips beyond Hakuba: taking in a sumo wrestling tournament in Tokyo, visiting the old imperial capital of Kyoto, and going to the Nozawa Onsen Fire Festival. Kyoto was a blur of shrines, Japanese macaques, a bamboo forest, and cherry blossoms. The sumo tournament was a ton of fun, though Blair learned you need to pay close attention: most bouts last less than 10 seconds.

And the fire festival was something else entirely: each winter villagers in Nozawa Onsen spend days choppidown beech trees and building a 60-foot high wood

little one-person tubs, most have a bigger pool for everyone. There’s one here with a beautiful view of the mountains and ski hills. They are also very cheap between $6 to ten dollars to get in.”

Blair has picked up a few Japanese phrases but has been surprised at how easy it is to get by in Hakuba just speaking English.

This winter was the first Christmas Blair has spent away from her family, and the holiday is not a big deal in Japan, but there still plenty of festive spirit, outlined Blair. The Robb family is Canadian,

shrine. When evening falls on the festival night, the fun beings: all the villagers (and great many of the onlookers who have flocked to the town) consume liberal quantities of sake. Once the mood is jovial, the village parade in the direction of the shrine, all bearing large bamboo torches, which are blazing. It it the job of all 25-year-old and 42-year old village men to defend the shrine from the fire-wielding villagers. The 42-years olds perch on top of the shrine, singing songs and taunting the villagers. The 25-year-olds hang off a lower level of the shrine by ropes and use pine boughs to battle back the villagers and to put out any parts of the wooden structure that catch alight.

“The songs are going full tilt, there’s the torches, the sake, and there are fireworks going off everywhere at the same time,” said Blair. “It’s pretty crazy, but it was amazing to watch.”

And yes, she noted, the next day people have scratches and minor burns. But it’s all in good fun and apparently participants are rarely badly hurt.

Photo submitted

Photo submitted

Photo submitted

libraian

FAITH

The new normal

By Pastor Wayne Frater Radium Christian Fellowship Church

What is the new normal? You hear about it, and yet nobody really knows what it is, still we are supposed to accept it and live in it.

Well in my opinion, if we are living for God, the new normal should be the same as the old normal. Hebrews 13:8 tells us that “Jesus Christ the same yesterday, and today, and for ever.” And if He is the same yesterday, today and forever, then it stands to reason that His Word, the bible, is the same yesterday, today and forever.

Where then should we get our direction on how to live our day to day lives in these times of ‘the new normal’? The news, YouTube, maybe Facebook?

For me the answer is actually simple, I get my direction from His word, from Jesus. No matter what we

are going through in these troubled times, no matter what problems may come our way, Jesus, in His Word, has an answer for us. Take time, search out His answer for you. A good place to start is in the Gospel of John. Read what Jesus did, is doing, and what He is going to do. What was normal for Jesus, should be our normal.

He is calling us to live in His normal, today and forever.

Take His word and renew your mind so every thought, every step, is in His normal, in all its forms, in truth, in purpose, and in power.

Do you believe it?

Eph 1:19-23: “And what is the exceeding greatness of His power to us-ward who believe, according to the working of his mighty power, which He wrought in Christ, when he raised him from the dead, and set him at His own right hand in the heavenly places, far above all principality, and power, and might, and dominion, and every name that is named, not only in this world, but also in that which is to come: And hath put all things under His feet, and gave Him to be the head over all things to the church, which is His body, the fulness of Him that filleth all in all.”

What is God’s normal for us?

Matt 28:18-20: And Jesus came and spoke to them, saying, “All authority has been given to me in heaven and on earth. Go therefore and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of

the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all things that I have commanded you; and lo, I am with you always, even to the end of the age.” Amen.

John 14:12-15: Verily, verily, I say unto you, He that believeth on me, the works that I do shall he do also; and greater works than these shall he do; because I go unto my Father. And whatsoever ye shall ask in my name, that will I do, that the Father may be glorified in the Son. If ye shall ask any thing in my name, I will do it. If ye love me, keep my commandments.

1 Cor 3:9: For we are God’s fellow workers; you are God’s field, you are God’s building.

In these times of the so called ‘new normal, Jesus makes it clear as to what we are called to do. We are called, to be about the Fathers business.

After about an hour or so, the shrine is properly ablaze, and the 25-year-olds and 42-year-olds clamber down and abandon their defence of the structure. Everybody and has a big party while one of the largest bonfires you will ever see roars away in the middle of the town square. By midnight, there’s nothing left but ashes, and the festivities wind down.

Blair will be back in Canada later this month, and although it’s been perhaps the best winter of her life, she said she is eager to see her family in the Columbia Valley and is also looking forward to catching up with her library co-workers, and “all my little library friends”.

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 W

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.

V A L L E Y C H R I S T I A N A S S E M B L Y Sunday 10 a.m. Worship ser vice 4814 Highway Drive, Windermere 250-342-9511 • www.valleychristianonline.com

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

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

Photos submitted