Columbia Valley Pioneer - February 29, 2024

MLA not seeking re-election

Columbia Valley Pioneer staff

fident he is making the best decision for the future.

Health challenges have prompted Columbia River-Revelstoke MLA Doug Clovechok to announce he is not seeking re-election this fall.

He noted it was a difficult decision but the right one for him and his family.

“It has been an honour and privilege to serve the constituents of Columbia River-Revelstoke as your MLA for nearly eight years now. I am incredibly proud of the work we have been able to accomplish for our communities,” he said.

“While my health challenges are being managed, and ultimately I am going to be fine, we concluded that serving another four-year term as your MLA was not in the cards for me.”

Clovechok previously committed to running in the next provincial election in October, but since that time health issues creeped up, prompting him to have serious discussions with his wife Susan and his children.

The MLA stated that he loves his job but he is con-

Clovechok will remain the MLA for Columbia River-Revelstoke until the election and says he will continue to “work hard” for his constituents.

“Under the leadership of Kevin Falcon, and all of my BC United colleagues, I am excited about the vision that Kevin has for our province, and I know he will fix the mess created by this NDP government.”

Clovechok noted he looks forward to supporting his successor in the upcoming campaign to bring much-needed change to B.C.

The sun shines hard on the last of winter in the Columbia Valley where blankets of crystalized snow still cover the landscape.

PHOTO SYD DANIS

VALLEY NEWS

Council nixes pedestrian-only main street

By Steve Hubrecht  steve@columbiavalleypioneer.com

There will be no pedestrian-only main street in Invermere on Fridays and Saturdays this summer.

The Columbia Valley Chamber of Commerce undertook a downtown experience survey earlier this winter asking the opinions of local business owners and residents on that topic. Last week, during a committee of the whole meeting on Tuesday, Feb. 20, Chamber executive director Pete Bourke presented the results of the survey to council members.

The results showed a clear majority of local residents either strongly agree or somewhat agree with creating a vehicle-free pedestrian area in downtown Invermere on some days during the summer by closing down main street to vehicle traffic. But local business owners were sharply and almost evenly divided, with slightly more than half not agreeing with the idea and slightly less than half either strongly agreeing or somewhat agreeing with it.

“The (survey) results were not overwhelmingly in favour of a closure. There was a clear split in opinion (from business owners),” Invermere Mayor Al Miller told the Pioneer at the council meeting that immediately followed committee of the whole. “At this point I don’t see any main street closure coming this year, unless something changes in the next few months.”

Controversy has erupted at least twice in the past decade over the idea of a main street closure to create a pedestrian-only area downtown. In early 2020 there was considerable backlash from downtown business owners upset and angry that such a closure would negatively impact their business. Following that backlash, council quickly dropped discussions on the topic. After the 2020 hubbub councillors vowed that, in the future, any main street closure plans would need to originate from the local business community.

This time the discussion on a pedestrian-only downtown was indeed started by the Invermere Business Com-

mittee, but Miller pointed out that the survey did not show a strong majority of downtown business owners in support.

“The regular public supports this, but the business community is mixed on it,” said Miller, adding the business owners are the ones with their livelihood possibly in jeopardy with a main street closure and their concerns need to be respected.

The survey garnered 45 responses from downtown businesses and organizations. Of those, 51 per cent did not support a vehicle-free pedestrian area in downtown Invermere, while 49 per cent either strongly supported it or somewhat supported it. (That further broke down as 40 per cent strongly in support of a vehicle-free pedestrian area, and nine per cent somewhat in support of it.)

Several business owners added written comments to their survey responses. These were kept anonymous in the report given to Invermere council. Almost all of these comments included in the report were against a main street closure. One comment read: “The logistics of this would be a nightmare and if not done perfectly will be a flop and mimic the feeling of a ghost town.” The commenter suggested creating new events or attractions in the shoulder season instead of the summer “would be more valuable to our downtown than worrying about how to make our busiest time of the year busier.”

The survey got 989 responses from the general public. That included 815 from full-time Columbia Valley residents, 148 from part-time residents, 17 from visitors and nine “other.” The full-time valley residents included 542 from Invermere, 83 from Windermere, 81 from Radium Hot Springs, 54 from Fairmont Hot Springs, 28 from Edgewater and seven from Canal Flats. Of those, 69 per cent either strongly or somewhat agreed with a pedestrian-only downtown area, while 31 per cent did not agree with it. (Those in favour further broke down to 58 per cent strongly in support of a pedestrian-only zone and 11 per cent somewhat in support of it.)

Invermere council has given the thumbs down to closing the main street this summer to pedestrian-only traffic.

RCMP REPORT

Sgt. Ed deJong

Columbia Valley RCMP

This past week, February 19 to 26, the Columbia Valley RCMP responded to 70 calls for service. The following is a summary of some of the files our officers responded to:

On February 23 police responded to a break and enter in progress in the 1700 block of 7th Avenue. Four individuals were located and arrested in the residence or fleeing from the residence. Two of the suspects were found to be in possession of firearms and are currently in custody pending further court appearances. This was a targeted event and there is no further risk to the general public.

Over the past week police have located and seized an amount of suspected stolen property. If you have

had tools recently stolen and have not reported to police, please contact the Columbia Valley RCMP to determine if we have your property.

Further to the media release by Cpl. Grandy regarding the arrest of a school teacher from David Thompson Secondary, police would like to clarify that the school and the school district were involved in the investigation from the start and the teacher was put on leave immediately after the allegations came to light. Once our investigation determined that charges were applicable an arrest was made.

As a reminder to all drivers in the Columbia Valley, the octagonal red signs are not merely suggestions. You are required to come to a complete stop before proceeding (or turning) through the intersection. Failing to obey a stop sign comes with a $167 fine and three demerit points.

Occupants, dogs escape fire

Columbia Valley Pioneer staff

A family including two dogs escaped a structure fire in Fairmont last week.

Firefighters observed a significant amount of smoke coming from the home (a duplex) where a chimney fire had extended into the attic space.

“The extremely hard work of the responders on scene prevented the fire from progressing and saved the home with little damage,” said Columbia Valley Rural Fire & Rescue Service Assistant Chief Joss Advocaat. “Two occupants and their two dogs evacuated the building and are safe,” he added.

Fire crews from the Fairmont Fire Department responded to the call along with members from the Windermere Fire Department with their ladder truck. RCMP, BC Ambulance Service and BC Hydro also provided support.

The fire is not considered suspicious, according to officials, who are reminding residents about the importance of chimney cleaning.

“We have already seen a great deal of destruction this winter due to chimney fires,” said Advocaat. “It’s important that residents keep chimneys clear of animal nests, leaves, and residue to ensure proper venting.”

Invermere local highlights STR concerns

By Steve Hubrecht  steve@columbiavalleypioneer.com

As the District of Invermere continues to wind its way to implementing short-term rental (STR) regulations later this year, its efforts continue to generate plenty of discussion among local residents.

During last week’s Invermere council meeting on Tuesday, Feb. 20, councillors received a letter from local resident Pat Bavin on the topic of STRs. Bavin had spoken about STRs at a previous council meeting on January 23 and sent the letter to highlight some areas of continued concern stemming from that meeting.

Bavin noted that several STR owners and operators presented arguments in favour of large STR properties (with at least five or six bedrooms) as key contributors to the local economy.

“I have concerns about the validity of the data used in this presentation,” wrote Bavin, suggesting that more research, perhaps even a District of Invermere-led study, could be helpful to determine average occupancy, average nightly rates, and — consequently — gross revenue for those who own STRs in Invermere. He also questioned what percentage of STR owners live in Invermere or other parts of the Columbia Valley and consequently reinvest the revenue they earn into the local economy, and what percentage of STR owners live outside the valley (and are less likely to reinvest the revenue they earn in the local economy).

“Many short-term renters pack their food and necessities from outside the community and the economic activity associated with those STR stays would be difficult to track,” wrote Bavin.

He urged councillors to weigh the economic benefits of housing long-term residents and workers as compared with housing short-term visitors in residential neighbourhoods.

“As a resort municipality, our visitors have many excellent options for accommodation in the District of Invermere and area, however, the long-term community members that serve our visitors do not,” wrote Bavin.

He also raised concerns about how the district will enforce its proposed STR regulations, writing that only a bylaw officer or RCMP officer will have the skills

needed to deal with problematic STR guests who create noise or make other disturbances, and that given how busy Invermere’s summer tourist season is, neither the bylaw officer nor the police may have time to deal with those issues.

“It will require an on-call, 24/7 service between May long weekend and Thanksgiving with likely three to four bylaw officers required to manage all shifts into the night,” suggested Bavin.

“What is council’s plan to ensure proper enforcement of this new regulation so that the requisite fines, documentation of complaints and processes set out by the bylaw are adhered to by members of the community?”

He also touched on community well-being, outlining that “as a long-time Invermere resident, it has been concerning to witness members of my peer group losing their long-term rental accommodations to STRs and then having to face inflated rental rates that are, in many cases, beyond what their fixed or limited incomes can sustain. Additionally, on the other end of the age continuum, young to middle aged families and individuals are struggling to secure housing . . . the economic challenges our youth, families and elderly are facing are likely to increase and they need support in order for them to support our service-based economy.”

Bavin said that overall he is supportive of the district proposal for regulating STRs, but that serious tweaks are needed.

He referenced the 2022 Vital Signs report (a community check-up report led by the Columbia Valley Community Foundation), noting that “when Vital Signs asked residents ‘why would you leave the Columbia Valley?’ 41 per cent selected ‘cost of living’.”

Bavin added he believes “regulation of STRs will help mitigate the trend of ever-increasing rental rates, help to address a lack of long-term housing supply, and bring stability for full-time and even seasonal residents and workers. Many of those most impacted by housing costs and supply issues are young individuals and families who serve our tourism economy.”

Council members acknowledged the letter during the February 20 meeting, but did not further discuss any of Bavin’s points.

Property crime still a thorn

By Steve Hubrecht  steve@columbiavalleypioneer.com

Property crime continues to be a thorn in the side of Radium Hot Springs and Canal Flats, according to the Columbia Valley RCMP.

Detachment Sgt. Ed deJong appeared before both councils on Monday, Feb. 12 when he outlined law enforcement in these areas during the last quarter.

DeJong began by saying the detachment has 15 staff — one sergeant, two corporals, eight constables, three administrators and one victim services worker. Since the last RCMP update Cst. Sarah Desjardins joined the Columbia Valley detachment from RCMP Depot, administrator Christine Sadler joined from Nelson (bringing with her a wealth of experience working with the RCMP), and Cst. Brennan Kish left for Chilliwack in January.

“Currently there are no staffing changes anticipated in the near future and we are fully staffed at all positions,” explained deJong.

He noted that property crime continues to account for a large portion of calls for service to the RCMP, with 141 calls during the third quarter (October 1 to De-

cember 31) — 17.8 per cent of total calls for service in the third quarter were related to property crime.

“This crime involves both local criminals as well as travelling criminals and is often linked to illicit drug use. Many property crimes are crimes of opportunity that can be prevented by simply putting valuables away and locking doors and windows,” explained deJong, expounding on a message that has been repeatedly emphasized by every RCMP detachment commander for the past decade.

From October 1 to December 31, 2023 the Columbia Valley RCMP responded to 792 files; up only slightly from 785 files during the same period last year. In 2022 there were 795 third-quarter calls for service, and in 2021 there were 985 third-quarter calls for service.

Over the first three quarters of 2023-2024 the detachment responded to a total of 2,871 files, only four fewer than the 2,875 files over the same period the year prior.

The local RCMP continue to pay attention to mental health concerns, and since April 2023 they have responded to 83 calls where the primary concern was mental health. A total of 38 of these came during the third quarter, representing almost five per cent of all third-quarter calls.

BUY or SELL REAL ESTATE

DK

RT Rice

EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY

Temporary Library Director

Start Date: Tuesday May 14, 2024

End Date: June 14, 2025

Term:

13 months (35 hours per week Tuesday to Saturday)

Wage and Benefits:

$24.00- $30.00/hr (To be negotiated based on experience). This is a non-unionized position.

A strong candidate will have an understanding of the community and surrounding areas the Library serves, be familiar with library management and organization and be able to work and interact with others from varying backgrounds and abilities. While prior experience working as a Library Director is ideal, a combination of alternative experience, education and local knowledge will be considered. Interested Candidates are invited to email boardchair@radium.bclibrary.ca for a full job description.

To apply, please email boardchair@radium.bclibrary.ca with a cover letter and resume by March 15, 2024. While we appreciate interest from all applicants, only those selected for an interview will be contacted. https://radium.bc.libraries.coop/

Invermere’s proposed short-term rental regulations continue to spark concern among locals.

PHOTO RYAN WATMOUGH

Free to read

The thought of a panel of self-righteous individu als or even a couple of parents applying to have a book censored or banned from the public is maddening.

All hail recent Freedom to Read Week, which opened many eyes to the fact there are people who have taken it upon themselves to decide what you shouldn’t read because it offends their own sensibil ities.

It almost brings tears to the eyes thinking about the countless books that have been destroyed (burned) in the past due to their subject matter. Even today, many books are challenged or banned by self-proclaimed censors who frown upon anything they deem as inap propriate for publication.

For example, Margaret Atwood’s novel maid’s Tale has been challenged by many parents for its violence, language and sexual content, in addition to the claim that it is anti-Christian.

In 2021 a decision was made by Dr. Seuss En terprises that six of its well-known children’s books would no longer be published due to “hurtful” con tent. A Dr. Seuss book hurtful? Reasons given includ ed perceived negative stereotyping of certain people. And that’s just for starters.

When the news broke out about these books, Val ue Village jumped on the bandwagon by charging ex orbitant sums for them. On Ebay, copies were selling for hundreds of dollars, but even that marketplace began its own censorship by prohibiting sellers from listing the six books.

Many argue that the questionable content in these delightful reads is nothing to get one’s knickers in a twist after all these years.

While censorship is an affront to our freedom to read, here’s a challenging debate: Infamous serial kill er Robert Pickton (aka the pig farmer) wrote a contro versial book in prison after being convicted in 2007 of murdering several women. (If you can believe it, he is now eligible for day parole.)

Somehow Pickton managed to get his manuscript out of prison and into the hands of a small publisher who printed the book that was basically a defence “in his own words.” Amazon began selling the book but soon took it off its website after an outcry from the public, mainly the family members of Pickton’s vic tims. The provincial government chimed in, saying it was a travesty of justice since the killer should never have been allowed to publish the book. Which brings us to the debate: Should the book be allowed for pub lic consumption? Is this type of censorship justified?

Libraries across North America have some very nasty, gnarly and ultra violent books on their shelves that people can borrow any day of the week. Even chil dren have access to these literary atrocities, yet they won’t be able to find any new copies of Dr. Seuss’s fa mous six tales.

Meanwhile, rappers continue to spew out the foulest lyrics imaginable, some of it extremely misog ynistic. Should that be censored? What a great debate that would be.

stay in an STR at any time.”

• “Not more than four bedrooms, and not more

LETTERS

Bill 44 disaster intensifies in province

By Riley Donovan

I thought B.C. NDP Bill 44, which abolishes single-family zoning and public rezoning hearings in municipalities with more than 5,000 residents could not possibly get any worse.

Oh, how wrong I was!

My coverage of this heavy-handed piece of legislation has mainly focused on how throwing open the floodgates to unregulated development will impose a significant strain on infrastructure like water, sewers, and parking.

As if that was not enough, more and more unintended consequences keep rolling in.

By the way, did Premier David Eby and Housing Minister Ravi Kahlon really think that unilaterally seizing zoning authority from B.C. towns would have no unforeseen effects?

The latest revelation is that a provision of the bill banning public rezoning hearings will eliminate one of the most important means of preventing environmental damage: community oversight.

The Narwhal (thenarwhal.ca), an independent B.C. investigative journalism outfit, published a lengthy piece on February 6 predicting that Bill 44 will lead to a “catastrophic” loss of trees in urban environments.

The piece showcased the example of Saanich, a district neighbouring Victoria, home to the beautiful but endangered Garry oak ecosystem.

Only three per cent of Garry oak meadows and woodlands, which are as-

sociated with more than 100 at-risk species, remain in a natural state.

Up until now, concerned citizens could regularly attend rezoning hearings and question developers on how their plans would impact this ecosystem.

These hearings did not prevent all development. Rather, they allowed citizens to pressure developers to build responsibly.

In some cases, Saanich council would request a modification in the building plan to save a certain grove of Garry oak trees or preserve a treasured green space.

If Bill 44 comes into effect on June 30, these rezoning hearings – and town council modifications to development plans – will be a thing of the past.

Under this bill, municipalities will have to rewrite their official community plans to reflect a ‘policy manual’ written by the B.C. NDP.

Public rezoning hearings for housing projects consistent with official community plans will then be phased out.

This will even apply to mixed-use projects, where just 50 per cent of the project actually involves housing.

A seizure of power on this scale might sound like something that would take place in a banana republic, but all of this information is publicly available in explanatory documents released by the provincial government.

Saanich is just one particularly revealing example out of hundreds: every B.C. town has a unique ecosystem,

whether wetlands, woodlands, or grasslands, and a duty to protect it for current and future generations.

Bill 44’s provision greenlighting the construction of three to six residential units (such as row houses, townhouses, and triplexes) on lots previously designated as single-family, while at the same time banning rezoning hearings, is an environmental disaster in the waiting.

Under this bill, a single-family home on a small, forested acreage could be legally torn down, and the trees chainsawed to make room for a triplex – with no public input allowed.

Housing Minister Kahlon has framed Bill 44 as an expansion of freedom, claiming that single-family zoning

is “exclusionary.”

The reality is just the opposite.

In transferring zoning authority from B.C. towns to the B.C. NDP, and in prohibiting citizens from influencing development in their communities, this bill is a profoundly authoritarian restriction on democratic rights.

B.C. citizens still have four months to pressure their mayors to speak out with a united voice against Bill 44.

As the timeline draws closer, I expect the bombshell revelations about this disastrous bill to start dropping with increasing frequency and intensity.

(Riley Donovan is a B.C. journalist and columnist living on Salt Spring Island.)

Council needs to act in interest of locals

Continued from page 6

There are simple hacks available to trick these noise monitoring sensors, like covering it with a pillow case or other sound attenuating material. And do you think STR operators will turn a deaf ear to excessive guest noise, as they pocket lucrative profits? Sure they will.

The tiny penalties, if ever levied, will simply be a cost of doing business for the STR operators, and not a meaningful deterrent.

• “One dedicated off-street parking stall must be provided on-site for 1-4 guests in an STR, and two dedicated off-street parking stalls must be provided for 5-8 guests in the STR.”

• Off-site parking (i.e., parking of guests’ vehicles on the street) will not be permitted.

Just because these are minimum parking requirements doesn’t mean you won’t have situations where all eight guests (or more ‘visitors’) drive separately, or more ‘guests’ are ‘just visiting.’

If your neighbours have a party or reunion a couple of times a year, one usually won’t mind them park-

ing in front of your house. In fact, you’ll probably offer your driveway or lawn for their guests to use. But when this happens every weekend with a revolving door of STR clients, the goodwill quickly evaporates.

If this is policy is adopted, it won’t be uncommon for a residence with four bedrooms and four vehicles suddenly has eight vehicles parked in front and around it, all bringing their coolers full of Kirkland Signature supplies.

Who has any faith that parking will be monitored, followed or controlled? And who will be paying the full cost of parking enforcement? Every resident in Invermere!

• No outdoor pool/s will be allowed in any STR operation unless permitted by TUP.

Once a TUP is approved, what is to stop a STR operator from installing a pool or other party amenity and making lucrative profits for the next three years? The pool will be paid for within the first summer, and then the property can be flipped, further driving up local residential real estate prices.

Face it. Invermere council has slept on this issue for so long they are trying to normalize the commercial

take-over of our residential neighbourhoods. What started as people swapping homes while on vacation once a year, or occasionally renting out a room in their oversized house, has evolved and consolidated into larger and larger corporations. Council has done the very least they can and plan to leave STR issues for the neighbours to deal with.

So, end the foolishness now. Council needs to act in the interest of local residents, of voters, not corporations.

Follow the rest of the province which has made regulations that will restrict short-term rentals to principal residences and either a secondary suite or an accessory dwelling unit in many B.C. communities starting May 1. Some B.C. municipalities have even more stringent controls because they actually value their residents and the vibrancy they create.

Suddenly, and definitely after May 1, if this proposed bylaw is adopted those communities that put their residents and workforce first are looking much more livable.

R. Watmough, Invermere

The NDP’s Bill 44 will reportedly abolish the requirement for some public hearings during the rezoning process. PHOTO

Ministry stalls on health care

Submitted by Better Care for BC

The BC health care system is in crisis.

One in five people do not have a family doctor. Emergency rooms are stretched beyond their limits as patients wait many hours or days for care.

Doctor Michelle Teo is launching the Better Care for BC campaign to encourage the provincial government to support the widespread adoption of Specialists Team Care.

Specialists Team Care is a team-based care model used in 10 different specialities that increases patient access to outpatient care. It has proven to increase the average patient capacity by 100 per cent in six months. Over 90 per cent of patients are very satisfied with the care they receive. The health care workers experience less burnout and have greater job satisfaction.

In 2022-2023, the Specialists Services Committee (composed of Ministry of Health and Doctors of BC) funded the first cohort of Specialists Team Care. Doctor Teo, a community rheumatologist, was co-lead for the initiative. With the overwhelming success of the Specialists Team Care initiative, there is a large demand for Specialists Team Care from patients and a growing waitlist of physicians across BC.

Doctor Teo left her medical practice in June 2023 to advocate for making Specialists Team Care widely available in BC. She gave the BC Ministry of Health a research proposal to offer Specialists Team Care to all physicians in outpatient care; funding is required to implement this health care reform. The provincial government will not commit to expediting the expansion of this proven health care solution.

The BC Ministry of Health will be receiving $3.3 billion from the federal government over the next 10 years, prioritizing access to primary care, reducing waitlists and supporting health care workers. Specialists Team Care addresses these priorities in as little as six months.

CAP empathizes with Indigenous inmates

By Julia Magsombol Local Journalism Initiative

julia@columbiavalleypioneer.com

After attending many court cases, Kim Beaudin, national vice chief of the Congress of Aboriginal Peoples (CAP), speaks out about Corrections Service Canada (CSC).

Beaudin has been attending Myles Sanderson’s inquest, an Indigenous man who murdered 11 people in 2022. Read https://www.saskatchewan.ca/government/news-and-media/2024/january/26/inquest-into-the-death-of-myles-sanderson

Beaudin realized many things while attending Sanderson’s inquest: these court case systems have different recommendations — a report written to propose or recommend the options available to solve a problem.

Elder Geraldine Arcand, who has worked with CSC for the past decade, was involved with Sanderson in the initial intake process when he began serving a federal prison sentence in 2019.

“The first day I met him, he was quiet, but he spoke. He was respectful and talked about his childhood and all that transpired from there,” she said.

Beaudin added that Sanderson, whose childhood was marked by violence, participated in programs even though he was struggling.

“He sort of snapped, and we’ll never know what happened,” he said.

Sanderson died in police custody four days after the killings on James Smith Cree Nation in Saskatchewan.

According to Beaudin, the help most Indigenous Peoples receive in prison is not sufficient.

APTN News reported that “$1 billion represents the approximate amount of money CSC spends incarcerating Indigenous Peoples each year, who represent 32 per cent of people in federal prison.”

https://www.aptnnews.ca/national-news/reportcalls-on-feds-to-strip-1b-from-correctional-serviceof-canada-budget/

As Beaudin described, CSC’s budget in 2023-24 for federal prison is only $3.05 billion, up from $4 million from the previous budget. This is relatively low, he pointed out.

“There’s no funding element attached to those [Sanderson’s case] recommendations,” Beaudin said. “They have a massive budget, and only five per cent of that budget reaches community people, only five per cent. That’s so low. It’s really small . . . $3.1 billion is nothing.”

Beaudin said this money should be distributed to the community so people can truly address the over-incarceration warehousing of Indigenous Peoples. He also said this budget should focus on the care

of mental health of Indigenous prisoners.

Moving forward, Beaudin plans to have five recommendations ready for his next court attendance. He will have updates on Sanderson’s inquiry soon.

For more information about Sanderson’s case, read https://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/saskatoon/ james-smith-cree-nation-inquest-day-11-1.7096644

Kim Beaudin, vice-chief of the Congress of Aboriginal Peoples, says Indigenous inmates are not getting the help they need in prison.

Well, this is a good sign that perhaps spring is finally on its way to the Columbia Valley. At least this muskrat thinks so while working on its next project.

PHOTO SYD DANIS

Survey indicates mental health slipping

Columbia Valley Pioneer staff

Rocky Mountain School District No. 6 is keeping a close eye on the mental health of its students after a 2023 survey prompted concerns.

The board recently reviewed the topic brought up by acting superintendent Steve Wyer based on a report by director of instruction Sharon Collin. The report focused on the BC Adolescent Health Survey that local students participated in last year.

The survey shows 75 per cent of students rated their overall health as good, compared to 81 per cent in 2018. As for mental health, only 62 per cent rated it as good or excellent, compared to 76 per cent five years ago.

In 2018, 27 per cent had smoked tobacco, compared to 22 per cent in 2023. Thirty three per cent had used cannabis (no change last year), while 36 per cent said they had vaped; there was no vaping statistic in the 2018 survey.

Five years ago 56 per cent of students said they slept for at least eight hours, compared to 48 per cent in 2023. In 2018 a total of 16 per cent said they did not eat breakfast on school days, compared to nearly 30 per cent in 2023.

In 2018, 25 per cent had skipped school in the past month, compared to 33 per cent last year. And five years go nearly 80 per cent said they planned to attend

post-secondary school, compared to 69 per cent in 2023.

Collin said the decline in student mental health has been replicated over the last couple of years in other surveys. To address this, the school district introduced its Mental Health in Schools strategy last fall with the goal of improving social/emotional learning and mental health literacy among students.

Collin noted the district wants to positively impact the 17 per cent of students who did not access mental health services they needed because they didn’t know where to go. “They were concerned about their confidentiality or were afraid of the stigma of seeking and accepting help.”

She pointed out there is a commitment to realign school counselling services to academic supports for students, guiding them to intervention services in the community. She further suggested the district would be well served to evaluate high school planning and post-secondary transition as a priority in future operations.

When asked about supports in the community, 84 per cent of students in the survey were able to identify one caring adult, Collin noted.

In the survey, students identified sexual health as a topic they wanted to learn more about. In fact, one 12 year old said they had a lot of questions but are “too embarrassed to ask.”

FireSmart Workshop March 23

Collin said 95 per cent of students surveyed said they had a phone or a tablet.

“The rise in instances of sextortion, sexting and online sexual exploitation of children and youth make it more important than ever to help students understand privacy, consent, and health relationships, she added.

multi-award-winning

will consist of two parts; with an open session in the morning for anyone in the region interested in learning more about FireSmart and an afternoon workshop for current Neighbourhood Champions.

March 23 | 10:00 am – 5:00 pm | Prestige Rocky Mountain Resort (209 Van Horne St S, Cranbrook)

AM session: 10:00 am – 2:00 pm (10-12 introductory session then lunch & guest speaker)

PM session: 12:00 pm – 5:00 pm (12-2 lunch and guest speaker, 2-5 Champions session)

This event is FREE and open to everyone. Registration required by 12:00 pm on March 8 (RSVP by visiting engage.rdek.bc.ca/firesmart).

For more info visit: engage.rdek.bc.ca/firesmart

The BC Adolescent Health Survey suggests that mental health among students has taken a tumble over the past five years.

PHOTO CHAY TEE/GETTY IMAGES

The East Kootenay FireSmart Program will be holding an educational workshop next month with featured guest speaker,

emergency management and fire safety educational specialist, Christina Hanger. The workshop

International Women’s Day

Celebrate women, aspire to equality! Inter national Women’s Day (IWD) is a global event that is for all people and all groups that celebrates the achievements of women in social, economic, cultural, and political spheres throughout the world and history It is a movement towards accelerating equality across geographical, social, and economic borders. This year, the theme of IWD is ‘Inspire Inclusion’ from the website: “Imagine a gender equal world A world free of bias, stereotypes, and discrimination. A world that’s diverse, equitable and inclusive. A world where difference is valued and celebrated. Together we can forge women’s equality Collectively we can all #InspireInclusion.”

This year, the Columbia Valley Chamber of Commerce is celebrating a bit early – on March 6th they are hosting a networking event at the Black Forest Restaurant from 5:30-7:00pm with wine and appetizers and awesome women! Cost is $35 per person and you can register on the chamber

website: www.cvchamber.ca (if you want to have dinner afterwards, please feel free to make a reservation: 250-342-9417). This inclusive event is a way to celebrate women in business throughout the Columbia Valley – we hope to see you there!

Keep an eye out for Inter national Women’s Day events throughout the valley – this day is celebrated by many different organizations in many different ways. IWD encourages all people to recognize this day in solidarity with women everywhere, from every background, and from every walk of life. On the IWD website they have put forward suggestions and ways that organizations can #InspireInclusion:

• forging women’s economic empowerment

• recruiting, retaining and developing female talent

• supporting women and girls into leadership, decision-making, business and STEM

• designing and building infrastructure meeting the needs of women and girls

• helping women and girls make informed decisions about their health

• involving women and girls in sustainable agriculture and food security

• providing women and girls with access to quality education and training

• elevating women and girl’s participation and achievement in sport

• promoting creative and artistic talent of women and girls

• addressing further areas supporting the advancement of women and girls

This is a day that encourages us to do better and be better – recognizing and advocating for the equality of women throughout the world benefits all of us in the long run. Join the Chamber of Commerce at the Black Forest Restaurant on March 6th to acknowledge and advocate for women’s equality and to inspire inclusivity!

-Deanna Berrington

Thursday, February 29

• 10:30am-11:30am: Seniors' Fitness Columbia Valley Centre, $2 dropin.

• 11:30am-12:00pm: Little Lambs – Baby Program Radium Public Librar y Join us for songs, rhymes, and stories with your babies! No registration required

• 6:45pm: Texas Hold ‘Em Poker Invermere Legion. $30 buy-in.

• 7:30pm: Families Housing that Fits Zoom meeting with host Ben Postmus Inclusive and suppor tive housing in your community diversefamilyroots@gmail.com

• 7:30pm: Trivia Night Windermere Whitehouse Pub Host Mandi Cox $3/ person, teams of more than 6 will be split into two groups Ages 19+

Friday, March 1

• 10:30am-11:00am: Family Stor ytime Invermere Public Librar y Join us weekly on Fridays for Family Stor ytime at the librar y! With stories, songs & a craft. Geared towards preschool age (2-5) but all welcome.

• 2:00pm-4:30pm: Wild Woolies: Radium Hot Springs Public Librar y Ever y 1st and 3rd Friday of the month Join our fibre ar ts circle! Ever yone and ever y skill level welcome. No registration required.

• 6:30pm - close: Meat Draw and 50/50 in the Legion! Members and guests welcome!

Saturday, March 2

• 10:30am-11:00am: Family Stor ytime Invermere Public Librar y Join 2:00pm-3:00pm: Seedy Saturday. Invermere Public Librar y. Join us to launch our Seed Librar y for the 2024 growing season! Learn seed saving tips and tricks with local enthusiast and take home info sheets Bring seeds to swap with others & to donate to our collec tion! We have envelopes available for donations going into our seed librar y All welcome!

• 10:30am-11:00am: Family Stor ytime Invermere Public Librar y Join us weekly on Saturdays for Family Stor ytime at the librar y! With stories, songs & a craft Geared towards preschool age (2-5) but all welcome

• 11:00am-12:30pm: LEGO/D uplo Club Invermere Public Librar y We'll have Lego, Duplo, big blocks & more out to play with on Saturday mornings! All ages welcome

• 2:00pm-4:00pm: Buddy Reading. Invermere Public Librar y. Contac t us to book a 30 minute session to read with a librarian Prac tice reading

aloud one - on- one to build skill, confidence & a love of reading! Open to all ages and reading abilities

• 6:30pm: Meat Draw and 50/50 in the Legion! Members and guests welcome!

Sunday, March 3

• 2:00pm: Cards, Cribbage and Dar ts Come to the Legion and have some fun! Members and guests welcome

• 7:00pm: Live Music Horsethief Creek Pub & Eater y Accompanied minors are permitted No cover

• 7:30pm: Dads Matter Zoom meeting with host Ben Postmus Dads connec ting, Dads Suppor ting, Dads Inspiring Do you have a son or daughter with Diverse Abilities? So do I diversefamilyroots@gmail.com

Monday, March 4

• 10:00am-11:00am: Seniors' Yoga Columbia Valley Centre, Invermere $2 drop in, open to all seniors.

• 10:15am-11:15am: Baby Goose Invermere Public Librar y Learn new songs and rhymes to share with your baby and meet other parents/ caregivers with young children. Drop -in program. Hosted by Columbia Basin Alliance for Literac y- Windermere Valley Six-week session from Feb 12-March 18.

• 6:30pm: Poker (Chip up for Charity). The Station Pub $20 buy-in. Ever y Monday

Tuesday, March 5

• 10:30am-11:30am: Seniors' Fitness Columbia Valley Centre, $2 dropin.

• 10:30am-11:30am: Homeschool Meetup Invermere Public Librar y Drop -in, all-ages programming with open- ended STEAM play, group ac tivities and ar t projec ts A chance for homeschool kids and families to get together! Please contac t us to get on the Homeschool email list to stay up to date and see what ex tended programs are coming up.

• 1:00pm-3:30pm: Ar t in the Afternoon Radium Public Librar y A free program for local ar tists and ar t enthusiasts! Whether you sketch, paint, car ve, knit or crochet, bring your supplies and work alongside fellow ar tists

• 6:30pm-8:00pm: Second Winds Community Band Prac tice at Invermere Catholic Church Annex. For info please email: dalvande@shaw.ca

• 7:00pm: Ullr Presents: Musical Bingo with Tim Richards Ullr Bar Ever y Tuesday - $5 per card

• 7:30pm: Families on Tuesday Zoom meeting with host Ben Postmus Families connec ting, Families Sharing, Families Suppor ting Families: Suppor t, Listening, Sharing, Connec ting. diversefamilyroots@gmail. com

• Wednesday, March 6

• 5:30pm-7:00pm: International Women’s Day Networking Event Black Forest Restaurant The Columbia Valley Chamber of Commerce is pleased to host an event celebrating IWD. We have some amazing Women in Business in the Columbia Valley - let's get together and celebrate them! Join us at the Black Forest Restaurant for wine and appetizers on March 6th at 5:30-7:00pm. $35 per person. Register at w w w.c vchamber.ca

• 6:00pm-8:45pm: Invermere Community Drum Circle Pynelogs

Professionally facilitated, par ticipants will learn about and experiment with different drums and drumming techniques from all around the world You'll experience a fun and inclusive drumming workshop, but that's only the beginning! Please tex t if you intend to stop by to experience the magic! +1-250-409-4110. rhythmbynature.ca

• 7:00pm-8:30pm: Stories of Ice with Lynn Mar tel. Four Points Books Join us for an inspiring evening with outdoor photographer and guide Lynn Mar tel as she explores Canada's Glaciers Lynn will share captivating stories and photos from her book, Stories of Ice, showcasing the adventures and industr y that shape these majestic landscapes! Admission is free, but registration is required at Four Points Books to secure your seat

• 10:00am-11:00am: Senior's Yoga Columbia Valley Centre, $2 dropin.

• 11:30am-12:00pm: Stor y Time Radium Public Librar y - preschool & all ages

• 3:00pm-4:30pm: After School Club Invermere Public Librar y

A window of transition time between school and home or ex tracurriculars Come colour, bead, play with LEGO and catch up with friends! Open to all school-aged kids and teens Drop - off allowed for Grade 2 students and up. Younger kids are welcome with a grownup Please bring your own snacks! Register: https://invermere bc.libraries.coop/

• 6:00pm-9:00pm: Wednesday Dinners & Meat Draw & 50/50 Invermere Legion. All welcome

WIB Women In Business

Local photographer offers IWD shoot

By Steve Hubrecht  steve@columbiavalleypioneer.com

A local woman is launching a new business with a special event on International Women’s Day.

Invermere resident Jewel Casey has lived in the Columbia Valley for two years, and recently decided to turn her passion and considerable skill at photography into a full-time business: KC Images.

She’s not one to do things by half measures (in her own words: “I’m jumping in with both feet)”, and has set up a photo shoot event at Kinsmen Beach on Friday, March 8. That’s International Women’s Day and the timing is no coincidence.

The photo shoot is open to local women and is meant to celebrate and capture empowering moments as well as the diverse and inherent beauty of all women.

Casey told the Pioneer the idea for the photo shoot came to her while watching some of Dove soap brand’s self-esteem project commercials which try to challenge traditional beauty stereotypes by promoting women of all different body types and ethnicities.

“I want to do something like that, but here locally,” said Casey. She wants her photo shoot to help women feel confident and beautiful, emphasizing their unique strength and their individuality.

The event will have a backdrop of the lake and mountains, and although details are yet to be 100 per cent ironed out, Casey is planning on extras such as

gift bags for each woman and a special night event.

International Women’s Day is important, Casey explained. She’s seen firsthand many examples of discrimination and outright sexism in past jobs and wants to do something to help turn that tide.

Casey grew up in Brighton, Ontario, and first fell in love with photography when she was just nine years old. Her mother bought her a green Olympus handheld point-and-shoot digital camera. During a trip to Ontario Place amusement park Casey shot image after image of a giant bucket of water tipping over.

“All day, I was obsessed with capturing the water falling out,” she said.

Casey’s fascination with capturing the moment remains to this day, but after graduating from high school she first pursued other careers, going to college for policing, becoming involved in the food and beverage industry, and working as a mechanic in the automotive industry.

“The automotive industry was very eye-opening. There’s pay grade differences and perception of capability that women have to deal with. There was a lot of chauvinism and sexist comments.  There was a lot in food and beverage as well,” she said.

“For women, especially young women, it can be tough. You either have to just listen to it, or you stick up for yourself. But if you stick up for yourself you start to get labelled. You get called rude or the b-word.”

Back in early 2022 Casey decided to

change her life completely, moving out west to the Columbia Valley. She took a job with Fairmont Hot Springs Resort and stayed in staff accommodation initially, before finding a place to live in Invermere and now starting KC Images.

So far she has focused on real estate and event photography. She’d been busy recently shooting the Recreation Adapted (RAD) Society’s Polar Plunge, a Valentine Day dinner atop Kicking Horse Mountain Resort, and another event for ULLR.

“Everyone does have a camera right there on their phones these days. So to stand out you need to do something dif-

ferent than just snap a photo. And that’s what I offer – it’s more than just a photo,” said Casey.

The International Women’s Day photo shoot on March 8 will begin at 11 a.m. at Pynelogs, followed by a march around town starting from Pynelogs at 3:30 p.m., concluding back at Pynelogs at 5 p.m. Tickets are $75.

Time slots are available for booking. To find out more visit www. facebook.com/kcimagesss?mibextid=LQQJ4d, www.facebook.com/ share/9WiJCakKpojMtvVd/?mibextid=9l3rBW or email kc.images@outlook.com.

I am the proud owner of KC Images, located in Invermere BC Since the age of 9 I have loved being behind a camera My passion is to capture your moments and make them last a lifetime, whether it’s a family photo, stand-alone or weddings I work with my clients so the special moments are captured the way you would expect. Please call Jewel at KC Images for your next photo.

Lin Egan & Anna Steedman Owners

Heading into our 6th season as owners of Winderberry but have many more years of growing and playing a part in the business under our belts. We come by the hard work and love of growing honestly from watching our Mom put her heart and soul into the business while we were growing up We are passionate about what we do and believe it shows in the high quality product that we take pride in providing for the Columbia Valley. Going forward and raising our families with morals and work ethic that we were raised with has been a dream

Shelley Kuhn

Owner - SC2 Strength Training Performance

WIB

Shelley is the founder of SC2, established in 2014. Her mission is to inspire physical excellence through elite gym experiences, motivating individuals to discover their inherent strength and limitless potential

With 20 years of experience, Shelley has coached some of Canada’s best endurance athletes, and has become a sought-after resource for women’s postpartum health.

She now offers personal training and small group training at Copper City Physical Therapy, as well as online, remote training plans Shelley continues working toward enhancing health and movement practices, and our local community vitality.

“Elite strength coaching should not be limited to elite athletes! The application of current sport science practices, blended creatively with fun and compassion forms the art of my programming; and is the guarantee for training success with SC².”

shelley@scsquared2 com | www scsquared2 com

WIB Women In Business WIB

Cindy MacKay

Hi, my name is Cindy. I am the Kootenay Insurance Branch Manager. With over 20 years of experience in the insurance industry, I am also licensed in Alberta and am a Commissioner for Affidavits for ICBC documents. I was born and raised in the Columbia Valley. Many of you may know me from camping, fishing, and quadding I have a great team that works alongside me. Give us a call with your insurance needs.

Sue Jopp

Hi, I’m Sue Many of you still recognize me from years of experience in the insurance industry. Raised in the valley, I began my career at Lambert Insurance in the early 90s Since then, I have worked at Westland and now part-time at Kootenay Insurance. I love helping my clients, past, and present, with all their insurance needs On my days off, I enjoy spending time with my granddaughters and family out at the farm.

Krystle Roberts

Owner - Krystle Beauty

WIB

Located in Radium Hot Springs, BC, Krystle believes beauty is more than skin deep, and her goal is to make her clients feel confident, empowered, and beautiful both inside and out. Krystle is committed to providing a clean, safe, and hygienic space for clients, using only the best products and techniques to ensure their health and well-being

Krystle’s mission is to make each client feel unique and valued, where clients become friends, feeling like they truly matter – and they do From lashes to toes, Krystle specializes in enhancing your natural beauty Being born and raised in Cape Breton, Nova Scotia gives her a unique perspective on life. She is married to the love of her life, Jeremy, and they have 4 beautiful children In 2017 they moved to Invermere, where her journey in the beauty industry began

778-527-2710 | krystlebeautybc@gmail com

Kootenay Insurance Ser vices, Ltd. - Invermere

Laurie Stober

Hi, my name is Laurie. I was born and raised in the Columbia Valley and am happy to call Invermere my home My insurance career began back in 1989 at Lambert Insurance I worked in the industry for 13 years before taking a break to raise my family and run our own business Once my daughters graduated high school, I resumed my career and joined Kootenay Insurance in 2018. I enjoy working with the KIS team and engaging with clients again

Sara Hamil ton

Hi, my name is Sara I moved to Invermere from Ontario 10 years ago. I had come out for a summer job at the Blue Dog Café. I knew right away this was where I wanted to call home I started in the insurance industry in 2017 as an ICBC representative. My favorite part about this job is getting to know the people in the community

Kate Kittmer

Owner - Healthy Soles Radium, BC

Healthy Soles provides safe, sterile and professional services in advanced foot care for senior, diabetics and other problematic foot care needs

• B/S Brace System-Effective treatment for ingrown and involuted nails without surgery Eliminates pain while correcting the nail

• Various massage techniques for poor circulation and neuropathy in lower leg and foot

Kate Kittmer cmp, cpod Certified Podologist Advanced Foot Care

250-342-1157 | kittmerkate@gmail.com

Brandy Hamilton

WIB Women In Business WIB

Owner - Brandyfied Personal Services

WIB

My Name is Brandy and I travel to your home to provide services to help the individuals who have a hard time getting out of their homes and prefer the comfort of their home.

Services I provide:

Hairstylist, makeup artist, registered Caregiver, photography and house cleaning.

Brandyfied Personal Services

Brandy.promakeup@gmail.com 250-342-1066

www.brandyfied.ca

Christine Johansen

Owner - Christine’s Hair Design

WIB

I moved to Invermere, in 1991 where I worked in salons gathering more skills. In 2003 Christine’s Hair Design was established and in 2022 I opened my own store front salon in the beautiful former Panache building

My goal is to get to know my clients in terms of their hair habits, likes, dislikes, and skill set. Helping someone find their style is so fulfilling as a hair dresser because your hair truly is everything

My favourite service to do and why I specialize in it, is trendy mature women’s hair, but still thoroughly enjoy all family hair care. I offer hair cutting, perms, colour, highlights, as well as ear piercing, facial waxing , eyelash and eyebrow tinting. I have been in the valley for 33 years now and have raised a beautiful daughter here The community has such a wonderful small town atmosphere with a big city bustle feeling to it!

christines-hair-design com

Brenda Braund-Read

Brenda moved to The Columbia Valley in 2002, having become attracted to the breathtaking mountain vistas, wildlife, many recreational activities, schools, and employment opportunities The scenic villages and towns are friendly and unique Who wouldn’t want to live here?

Kimberly Olson

OwnerTraditional Thai Massage and Yoga, Kimberly Olson Art

WIB

Kimberly is a curious and adventurous person with a passion for connecting with others She owns and operates Traditional Thai Massage and Yoga, where she has offered the ancient healing arts of Thai massage and bodywork for the past twelve years Guided by insights from generations of gracious teachers in Thailand, Canada, and the US, Kimberly uses various massage techniques alongside gentle stretching, range of motion, and other traditional methods that facilitate a sense of freedom in the body, easing accumulated tension, stress, and discomfort

Kimberly also teaches yoga and meditation to individuals, groups, organizations, and businesses, where she helps guide clients into the present moment through body and breath work, helping them feel expansive in their bodies and peaceful in their minds. In addition to her work with the healing arts, Kimberly creates and sells fine art. Her artwork embodies the varied fluctuations of living a human life and playfully creates spaces that promote healing and a sense of reprieve from our busy lives.

Kimberly wishes you health and happiness in the coming spring!

www.kimberlyolson.ca

www.kimberlyolsonart.ca

Professional Real Estate Representative, Royal LePage, Rockies West Invermere

WIB

In her capacity, Brenda has become a knowledgeable ambassador for each community, passing along important information to help clients decide where they would like to live in the Valley and how best to sell.

For 17 years, Brenda has facilitated the Real Estate process for buyers and sellers She enjoys navigating folks through the complexities of listing, purchasing, selling property, and discussing clients’ expectations in an honest and comprehensive manner. Brenda’s expertise assures her clientele that their Real Estate transactions are managed well, working with a committed professional at the helm

Brenda’s business focus is on communication, dedication, transparency, contract law, and skillful negotiations These, combined with passion, expertise, and using current technology have earned her the prestigious Royal LePage Diamond, Gold, and Award of Excellence along with many other accolades throughout her years of professional service. Brenda says that helping clients accomplish their goals is the ultimate reward in her Real Estate career.

Brenda welcomes an opportunity to chat!

Brenda Braund-Read, Professional Real Estate Representative with Royal LePage - Rockies West Realty, Invermere

WIB Women In Business WIB

Monika Juras

Owner Purcell Styling Co.

After graduating from DTSS in 2015, Monika obtained her professional hairstyling license and eventually settled in Canmore, Alberta During her time in Alberta, she dedicated herself to honing her skills and staying up-to-date with the latest trends and techniques in the ever-evolving world of hair She quickly discovered her niche, specializing in creating natural, low-maintenance and personalized looks for her clients

Although Monika enjoyed the change of scenery and built a solid client base, she wanted to come back home to be closer to her family. When the opportunity came up in December 2023, she began the renovation of a space above Columbia Cycle & Ski, and Purcell Styling Co was established

“Growing up in Canal Flats, I’ve always had a strong connection to the Columbia Valley Returning to the valley allows me to combine my passion for hairstyling with the love I have for the place I call home, serving the community that raised me.”

250-919-3718 | purcellstyingco@gmail com | purcellstylingco com

Dee Conklin Owner - Palliser Printing & Signs

WIB

Dee Conklin moved to the Valley back in 2003 to buy Palliser Printing. Dee and her staff have weathered many economic highs and lows over the years and have come out stronger at each end.

In 2023 she was thinking perhaps it was time to look at retirement. But after sitting with her financials and a buyer, she actually decided not to sell but to expand and give her creativity one more boost of energy. She made a deal with Lori from Sign Artists and merged the 2 companies to make Palliser Printing and Signs in June 2023. She and her staff have been creating an exciting new look with many new offerings to help support the community and the needs of business. Call 250-342-2999 or email info@palliserprinting.com or signs@palliserprinting.com

WIB

Christine, the proud owner of Triptician, the Vacation Specialists, brings over 30 years of experience in the Travel Industry to her clients. A passionate advocate for personalized vacations, she is known for her exceptional customer service and dedication to prioritizing her clients’ needs.

As a Certified Vacation Specialist, Christine excels in creating tailored vacation experiences From the initial planning stages to your return home, she remains a steadfast guide. In the words of Christine, “I am always here for my clients, ready to assist in creating your dream vacations. Feel free to call or email me anytime.

christine@triptician.ca

250-341-5751 | www triptician ca

Sarah Moseley, CPHR Owner - Rockies HR Consulting

WIB

Sarah has been working in HR for over 12 years. She has built a reputation as a knowledgeable and thorough HR professional in Alberta and British Columbia. Sarah’s approach is both personable and direct, which allows for dependable results and high confidence in addressing a wide range of HR matters. Rockies HR is your local human resources consulting business offering a range of human resources consulting services for small- and medium-sized businesses. She can help you with your HR needs so you can focus on what you do best - run your business! Whether you are a business owner or an HR Professional looking for assistance, we can help.

Sarah is a lifelong learner with varied interests and background and loves the Columbia Valley. Like many people, she has been fortunate to have multiple career paths which has allowed for a breadth and depth of knowledge across several industries. This knowledge and adaptability has allowed Sarah to transfer learning and apply it in new and unconventional ways.

In BC’s tourism and hospitality industry, Sarah works with go2HR as an HR Consultant (https://www.go2hr.ca/about-us/meet-the-team). For all other industries in BC and all Alberta industries, she works with Rockies HR.

info@rockieshr.com | https://rockieshr.com

Rhiannon Tutty

Owner - Tutty Financial

Rhiannon’s entire professional life has been within the financial sector, and almost 10 years ago she joined her father’s firm as a Sun Life Financial advisor. After 20 years as an advisor, he is now retired, leaving Rhiannon to continue that legacy Rhiannon’s passion for helping is also demonstrated in her volunteer efforts As many know, she has dedicated much of her time to Columbia Valley Youth Soccer, but now she focuses on supporting businesses A long-standing board member at Columbia Valley Chamber of Commerce, she is about to take on the position of Chair “I believe in the #valleystrong mindset!” Rhiannon explained, “I am very excited about the upcoming work for me with CVCC.”

WIB

This passion for supporting others, and her years of experience shows when working with her Rhiannon treats her clients as individuals, meeting their specific needs She works with business owners, individuals, and families, from young adults to retirees. She gives advice, shares financial knowledge, while also provides the solutions required. “A financial plan, or financial roadmap is sometimes all that is needed” Rhiannon shared “But most often they need the tools as well ” Some provided services include Life Insurance, Critical Illness, Group Benefits, Investment, and wealth accumulation. “Clients are often surprised when they come in, because the industry often has an intimidating perception, but I focus on providing an experience that is personal and approachable I understand that it is your life, your business, your family, your retirement. This can be an emotional and important conversation, and I want you to feel heard and understood.”

Christine Winchester Owner - Triptician

ENTERTAINMENT

Musical trio La Cafamore coming to town

Submitted

La Cafamore is in its 26th year of touring the Kootenays with classical chamber music concerts.

For founding member and manager Carolyn Cameron, it is a dream come true.

“My plan in life was to go to music school, then med school and have my music as well as a medical career.”

As it turned out, med school came first and she never made it to music school.

“It is one of my regrets in life, but I’ve tried to compensate with music camps, private lessons and lots of performing. That’s partly why this group is so important to me as it allows me to take a piece and develop it beyond the amateur level.”

The group has allowed her to work with professional musicians as well as high level amateurs.

Cameron’s medical career did not last long as family commitments took over. However, once the kids were independent she was able to devote more time to music.

“That’s when La Cafamore really took off. We started as a local string quartet but over the years the core membership dwindled to just myself.”

One of the advantages of the situation is being able to vary the instrumentation of each concert, even incorporating dance.

“Nowadays, I have enough of a pool of collaborators so that the configuration will often be decided by who is available and funding. Over the years we have had tremendous support from the Columbia Basin Trust and the Columbia Kootenay Cultural Alliance.”

If not for that support, keeping the group going would be difficult. “The combination that you are going to hear

at this concert (in Invermere on March 21) is one of my favourites,” says Cameron, who is joined by pianist Nina Horvath and cellist Maria Wang.

“These musicians played the group’s first set of concerts post-COVID. I think the opportunity to perform live again, the inspiring program (Arensky #1, Piazzolla Four Seasons of Buenos Aries), and my wonderful fellow musicians was the perfect storm. When that set of concerts was over, we were all planning when we could get together again.”

Trying to re-create the magic, the group has chosen Brahms piano trio #1 and Dvorak Dumky trio.

“I’m glad that Nina picked the Brahms because typically piano parts for piano trios are massive undertakings. This one is no exception, and I wouldn’t want to be the one assigning it to a pianist.”

The pairing with Dvorak is interesting in that it was Brahms who edited the Dumky trio, being an admirer and mentor to Dvorak.

The Dvorak provides slightly lighter fare to Brahms’ romantic sweeping masterpiece, providing a set of six pieces inspired by Bohemian folk music.

Invermere has been one of La Cafamore’s recurring sites for many years. “Christ Church Trinity is such a wonderful venue, and we have a devoted audience.

Also, Inspire Flowers has been amazing in selling advance tickets for us, as well as Anne Jardine who has put up countless posters for me,” says Cameron.

The concert at Christ Church Trinity is Thursday, March 21 at 7:30 p.m. Tickets are $20 for adults, but free for children 12 and under.

Advance tickets are available at Inspire Flowers at1046A - 7th Ave. Tickets are also available at the door.

Classical trio La Cafamore will grace the stage at Christ Church Trinity in Invermere on March 21 at 7:30 p.m.

Games learning experience for judo athletes

Submitted by Jeanette Riches

Head Sensei of Invermere Judo Club

What does judo teach you? Sportsmanship, mastery of one's self, patience and perseverance.

And what better way to evaluate one's self than during the BC Winter Games.

This year's games were hosted in Quesnel and Zone 1 Kootenays (judo) was able to prepare five athletes from Creston and Invermere for the competition.

One of the Creston athletes, Noah Watson, experienced a broken foot while training for the games and was unable to travel with the team. The team’s sole early bloomer Konnor Cavanagh from Invermere took on the challenge this year of training and competing above his regular age bracket.

Although Konnor didn't bring home any metals, his teammates and coaches beamed with pride over his strong and determined performance on the mats and his team spirit off the mats.

The other athletes hailed from Creston: Tiang Tanapima, Elisha Moore and Kaitlyn Sandoval travelled together for a second time building up the Kootenay tiny but mighty team. Tiang had one

of the largest weight divisions, leaving no room for error. Tiang sadly finished the two days of the tournament with no metals after double elimination rounds. Elisha and Kaitlyn are both coming home with silver metals in the individual tournament. These young ladies worked amazingly hard all weekend to be the best versions of themselves.

Everyone knows losing is hard, but we sometimes forget the burden to win with grace. These amazing young people showed maturity to grow and be anything they desire.

Judo BC encourages mentorship for up and coming coaches and Zone 1 Kootenays was privileged to have two junior coaches on our roster. Cassia Riches stepped up to coach the girls team and Lenni Stich coached for the boys team. Both of these young adults rose to the challenge and radiated perfection, sharing there past experiences, participating in warm ups, and motivating the athletes with helpful competition tips. Lenni and Cassia were invaluable in helping Creston head coach Sensei Laura Knudsen from beginning to end.

No matter where life takes these two young adults they will always be welcome on any team I coordinate.

upon sale of a STR proper ty;

Spring 2024

The Invermere Health Care Auxiliar y Society is pleased to invite non profit organizations to apply for funding for projec ts that will enhance health care in our communities The source of funding for the IHCAS is The Invermere Thrift Store, 150 volunteers working tirelessly to strengthen health initiatives in the Columbia Valley Applicants are required to be qualified donees as required by CRA. For Funding Applications, instruc tions and any questions please email seona.helmer@gmail.com

Deadline for applications being received by mail or email is March 22nd 2024. Successful applicants will be notified mid-April 2024.

(psssst…we will be looking for Students to work for the summer in the store.

Email IHCASAP@outlook.com for more info)

4 Removes the prorated fee after June 30th

All persons who consider themselves affected by the adoption of the proposed Shor t Term Rental Business Bylaw No 503, 2024 may make representations to Council by:

1 Providing a written submission by mail, fax or email to be received by 4:00 PM on Wednesday March 6th, 2024 (contact information below); or by

2 Presenting written and/or verbal submi ssions at the Council meeting

There will be an oppor tunity to attend the Council meeting vir tually, with details provided on the Council meeting agenda, which will be posted in the Document Centre on the Village website on Thursday, March 7th, 2024 Submissions cannot be accepted after the Council meeting

The Bylaw is available for inspection on our website: w w w radiumhotsprings ca

Athletes from the Invermere and Creston judo clubs competed at the BC Winter Games in Quesnel last weekend.

Columbia Valley Pioneer staff

It’s “business as usual” for the Columbia Valley Chamber of Commerce (CVCC) as it tackles economic development in 2024.

Economic development officer Pete Bourke recently presented the Regional District of East Kootenay (RDEK) a recap of 2023 and planned objectives for the new year.

The report detailed priorities based on focus areas including workforce development and resident attraction, community awareness and communication, and local business growth and investment.

Bourke outlined the work plan used to achieve these priorities, which include resident restricted (workforce) housing, public transit, childcare, education, staffing and living wage, physician recruitment, business walk program, business start-ups and support, business retention, and a ‘green economy.’

Bourke presented the CVCC’s financial request for 2024 as follows: $79,200 per year (plus taxes), monthly service fee of $6,000, monthly administration fee of $600, and $5,000 per year for special projects.

RDEK approves fire protection expansion

Columbia Valley Pioneer staff

The fire protection area in Edgewater and Panorama has been expanded.

On February 8 the Regional District of East Kootenay (RDEK) approved the expansion of Edgewater’s service area to 50 additional properties. In Panorama, the expansion includes 12 additional properties.

Regional protective services manager Christina Carbrey explained that the RDEK received requests from property owners in Edgewater (Area G) to be included in the fire protection area, including properties around Spur Valley and Elk Park ranches.

Carbrey said there have been concerns that some homeowners outside of the protection area may be unaware that they are not included in the service, while others, who previously didn’t want to be included, now want to have protection.

After a review, with consultation with the fire chief, it was decided to include the additional properties, Carbrey noted. She added this prevents confusion for fire crews and residents when the fire department enters an unprotected area enroute to another protected area.

Carbrey gave a similar report for Panorama (Area F), saying the expansion ensures there will be no further gaps for any future development within the fire protection area. The area expansion includes fire protection, fire suppression, rescue services and medical first responder services.

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

Narcotics Anonymous Open Meeting

Mondays 7 p m at the BC Ser vice Building, South End 624-4th St Invermere

Valley Fitness Societ y AGM

March 21, 2024 6:00 pm

Invermere Inn B oardroom

All are welcome!

Cheers and more Cheers to Catherine at Invermere McD onald's for the outstanding customer ser vice. You are always willing to go the ex tra mile to make sure things are done right You are amazing!

Cheers to Rosanna and Shane Gillard for your generosit y. You are always willing to lend a helping hand when needed We appreciate your generosit y

CHEERS! To The DOI for doing a great job cleaning up 8th ave!

Cheers to Kirsten at H & R Block for the great job you are doing I appreciate the help you give me with my taxes.

Cheers to Kr ys at Sobeys for going above and beyond to help out a customer

Cheers to my friend Doris C you are kind, generous, and make the best jelly Cheers to you for sharing with me

Cheers to my friend R icky M for phoning me to see how things are going It's nice to know someone cares enough to check in when we haven' t seen each other in a while Your kindness means a lot to me

Affordable options for ltered water. No more buying bottled water. We can treat your well water also Hard Water, Iron, Arsenic, Bac teria, Manganese, Sulphate etc O ffering a 10% percent discount on all systems until the end of winter Call us at 250-342-5089 or email us at info@aquair water com for more information

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

FIRE WOOD

Pine and Fir or mixed Call 250-342-6068

Searching for Traditional Ar tist with experience in sewing moosehide

Phone or tex t 250-688-1581

B.B.'s Home & D esign Ser vices Renovations, Masonr y & Handyman Ser vices, Blinds, Housechecks, eavestrough/ yard cleaning/dump runs 250-688-2897 or 403-861-8782

Family Dynamix is looking for an experienced par t-time bookkeeper to join our team of vibrant, sincere, and professional individuals

Responsibilities include a variety of book keeping and clerical duties in suppor t of the organization’s accounting policies and procedures within a computerized accounting system. Submit a resume and cover letter to Cari Stewar t, Direc tor of Program Management, Family D ynamix Association at cstewar t@fdx.family, or Box 2289, Invermere, BC., V0A 1K0, by March 4, 2024 at 4pm

Mountaineer presents show

Submitted

Over the past few months, the Edgewater seniors have been sponsoring shows of local mountaineers. The first show was last April when they chose to start out with the big gun: The Life and Times of Conrad Kain presented by Pat Morrow, two very well-known mountaineers both from Wilmer. This show, of course, was very successful and sparked a lot of interest.

After taking the summer off, they kicked off the new season this past November with the very entertaining film by David Goldsmith of renowned mountaineer Leo Grillmair and his remarkable life, and what an interesting, exciting, and sometimes rocky life it was!

Continuing on with the series, this year in February they featured Klondike Ken Dyck and his slide show of natural beauty. At this show, many breathtaking shots of our beautiful country were seen as Ken took us on a

journey from southern Alberta near Waterton Park all the way up to the Arctic Ocean. It was very enjoyable.

The upcoming featured mountaineer is none other than the renowned Pat Morrow who will be presenting his show on March 8. There’s not much we can say about Pat that most of you don’t already know, including the fact that he has climbed mountains all over the world. He is the first person to climb the highest peaks in all seven continents. Very impressive. This is a show you won’t want to miss. Come and see Pat and his ski-mountaineering pictures at the hall in Edgewater on March 8 at 7 p.m. Enjoy refreshments and a visit with Pat after the show.

All shows are admission by donation.

Pat Morrow will present a slide show of some of his amazing photographs. Shown here is a photo of Brian Nesbitt from Invermere.

Ravenhead Fabrication Ser vices is seeking a detail- oriented Metal Fabric ator/Welder to join our team

in person at 128-B Industrial Rd 2, Invermere, or email resume to jobs@ravenheadfab.ca

SPORTS BEY ND THE BLUE LINE Rockies start strong in playoff battle

By Stephanie Stevens

The 2024 Kootenay International Junior Hockey League playoff season has begun, and the Columbia Valley Rockies came through the gate ready to play.

The first round of the Eddie Mountain Division playoffs has the Rockies squaring off with the Kimberley Dynamiters, a team they have struggled with this season, particularly in away games. But that streak ended with the first game on Friday, Feb 23 with a 3-2 overtime win in the Kimberley Arena.

The Nitros were up by two after the first two periods but the Rockies stepped it up and Gage Sather started off the third with an unassisted goal, followed a few minutes later by Oleg Bitus (assists from Paddy Donahue and Kaelan Shelton) to tie the game.

Teo Fath scored the winning overtime goal (assists from Wyatt Wurtz and Carter Velker), but the game ended with a brouhaha that resulted in a bench game misconduct for the Rockies and a three-game suspension for Dynamiter Justin Sommer.

“Our players came off the bench to celebrate the goal but we are supposed

to keep on the bench until the other team clears or the ref says go,” explained associate coach Tucker Braund.

The early celebration was cut short when Sommer cross-checked Shelton in the back of the head which sparked the short-lived brawl.

Head coach Tayler Sincennes received a one-game suspension and sat out the Saturday game, also in Kimberley.

While their head coach was on the bench, Braund and assistant coach Tanner Wit led the boys into a second playoff victory, this time a 1-0 shutout. The lone goal was courtesy of Bryan Kim (assists from Jamieson Franz and Ellis Mcgeough).

“We did a really good job in games one and two going on the road and simplifying our games which is exactly how we need to play,” said Sincennes. “In game three there were a few moments where we got away from that and it cost us the game.”

Game three was home in Eddie Mountain Memorial Arena and ended in a 4-3 loss for the Rockies but despite that it was a fast-paced tilt that entertained an appreciative crowd.

Kobe Mason put the puck in the net in the first (assists from Shelton and Bitus) and then again in the second (assists from Kyran Gromnisky and Kade Cochlan). Mcgeough brought in a third in the third (assist from Johnny Lozeman) but Kimberley potted one more late in the third to take the game.

“Our penalty kill throughout the series has been very good and our power play is struggling but generated some more good opportunities in game three,” said Sincennes.

Netminder Nate Glenn was between the pipes for all three games and stood on his head, stopping 80 of 86 shots on goal.

Game four was slated for Tuesday night so there was no information for press time, and game five is tonight, Feb 29 in Kimberley. The boys will be back in the Eddie tomorrow for what could be the final game of this series, with the seventh game (if needed) slated for Sunday back in the Kimberley barn.

The Columbia Valley Rockies demonstrated their power on the road with two wins heading into the playoffs.

Mother pleads, charges against twins dropped

By: Julia Magsombol Local Initiative Reporter julia@columbiavalleypioneer.com

The mother of a pair of twin sisters in Toronto has pleaded guilty to fraud after her daughters claimed to be Indigenous.

In the summer of 2023, Amira and Nadya Gill were investigated and later charged with fraud after they claimed to have an Inuit status and identity in their education scholarship and bursary applications.

For more information on the story, read, https://www.columbiavalleypioneer.com/toronto-twins-in-hot-water-with-indigenous-charity/

The sisters faced two counts of fraud over $5,000 for allegedly defrauding two Inuit organizations in Nunavut.

Karima Manji, their birth mother, who previously claimed to have been their adopted mother — faced three counts of fraud.

Manji's legal representative, J. Scott Cowan, and Crown prosecutor Sarah White, stated that Manji submitted forms to enrol her children as Inuit beneficiaries in Nunavut Tunngavik Inc. (NTI).

The twins were unaware of this and their mother’s actions, so the charges against them were withdrawn.

According to the agreed statement of facts presented in court, the Gill sis-

DISTRICT OF INVERMERE

914 – 8th Avenue, PO Box 339 Invermere, BC V0A 1K0

Tel: (250) 342-9281

Fax: (250) 342-2934

EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY

Engineering/Planning Summer Student

The District of Invermere is accepting applications for an Engineering or Planning undergraduate student to work as part of our Public Works and Planning Departments. This is a temporary full-time or part-time position within the CUPE Local 2982 bargaining unit starting in May until the end of August. This position works 35 hours per week.

DESCRIPTION

Under general supervision, the Student Engineering position will work on a variety of projects including development of maintenance programs, assistance with development applications, sourcing quotations for projects, information research, records updates, involvement with civil construction project and other tasks as assigned. The days will consist of 7 hour days, with a start time of 8:30 am, Monday to Friday.

EMPLOYMENT TERM:

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

STARTING PAY RATE:

The current starting wage for a student is $26.65

REQUIRED KNOWLEDGE, ABILITIES AND SKILLS:

1. You must be attending school, college or university and enrolled in a Civil Engineering or Planning undergraduate during the last school term and returning to your studies in the subsequent academic year.

2. Knowledge of word-processing, spreadsheets, desktop publishing, and records management would be an asset.

3. Knowledge of municipal operations would be an asset.

4.Knowledge of Occupational Health & Safety Regulations as related and appropriate.

HOW TO APPLY:

If you are interested in this position, please send a cover letter and resume outlining your qualifications and experience to corporateservices@invermere.net or the address below quoting “Summer Student 2024 – Engineering/Planning”.

District of Invermere

Attn: Kindry Luyendyk, Corporate Officer

Box 339, Invermere, BC, V0A 1K0

Tel: (250) 342-9281

Fax: (250) 342-2934

Email: corporateservices@invermere.net

This opportunity will remain open until it is filled. We thank all applicants for their interest; however, only those considered for an interview will be contacted.

Additional information about this opportunity may be requested by contacting the District’s Corporate Officer.

ters had more than $158,000 in funding between September 2020 and March 2023. An additional $64,413 was on hold for Amira Gill in the spring of 2023 but was unpaid. The funding sums up to more than $220,000.

It is reported that Manji has a criminal record involving fraud. She was sentenced in 2017, for which she received a conditional sentence of two years less a day, followed by one year probation.

A sentencing date for Manji has been scheduled for June 24 at the Nunavut Court of Justice.

"Colonization consisted largely of the theft of our lands and valuable resources, and this kind of identity theft represents a modern-day iteration of

those same colonial practices," said Aluki Kotierk, an Inuk politician, in a statement after charges were withdrawn against the twins.

In a past interview, Kim Beaudin, national vice-chief of the Congress of Aboriginal Peoples (CAP), said, "We want to ensure that Indigenous students have an opportunity to further their education and get the degree or diploma they need to become part of the community."

For more information, read: https:// www.aptnnews.ca/national-news/ president-of-nunavut-tunngavik-incsays-dropping-charges-against-gilltwins-not-acceptable/

Doug Clovechok, MLA

Columbia River-Revelstoke

For weeks, I have heard loud and clear from my constituents in Columbia River-Revelstoke that the NDP’s proposed changes to the Land Act must be halted.

My office has been contacted by local rod and gun clubs, backcountry users, tenure holders, tourism operators, water stewards, and concerned citizens. From the very beginning, my colleagues in BC United and I have relentlessly opposed these flawed and dangerous changes and worked diligently to inform the public of the impacts the proposed legislation could have. As a result of this work, and the outcry from people across the province, the NDP have backtracked on their plan — for now. We know that the NDP plans to resume these changes at the next opportunity.

In 2019, when the NDP implemented the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples, they promised 17 times that this legislation would not provide a de-facto veto to First Nations, which falls in line with the directives set out by the Supreme Court of Canada for meaningful reconciliation. However, their words do not fit with their actions when it comes to the proposed changes to the Land Act.

Despite the potential wide-ranging impacts on how Crown land could be used for mining, agriculture, forestry, and recreation, the NDP began a quiet consultation process without so much as a news release. Furthermore, they planned to introduce this legislation before the public commenting period ends on March 31. This was the most recent example of a long line of broken

MLA Minute

promises and secrecy that has led to the BC NDP being named the most secretive government in Canada.

Creating a de facto veto only serves to create division rather than unity among people. It’s important that we prevent the NDP’s hidden agenda from resurfacing after the next election. BC United is committed to providing a different approach that promotes reconciliation while leaving Crown land in the hands of the public.

A Kevin Falcon-led BC United government will change the name of ‘Crown land’ to ‘public land’ to reflect the interests of our communities. We will end NDP secrecy by ensuring public consultations and transparent land management processes. Furthermore, we will set strict timelines and collaborate with First Nations to expedite permitting, ensuring responsible and prosperous land use. We have also committed to important initiatives such as our proposed Indigenous Loan Guarantee program that will create more opportunities for First Nations to participate in natural resource projects.

BC United will continue to act in the best interests of all British Columbians and hold the government accountable for providing transparency to our communities.

I want to hear from you about any concerns you have about this or any other issue. I read every email I receive. Please reach out to me at doug.clovechok.mla@leg.bc.ca or call my office in Kimberley at (250) 432-2300 or Revelstoke at (250) 805-0323.

Have a Heart Day, think of the children

By: Julia Magsombol Local Initiative Reporter julia@columbiavalleypioneer.com

Valentine's Day is not only about the love for your partner but also for everyone around you, especially the children that need it - that's what Have a Heart Day does.

Have a Heart Day 9 (February 14) was organized by Canada's First Nations Child and Family Caring Society. It happens annually, and activists, organizers, and community members around Canada march to parliament to raise their voices against the discrimination faced by Indigenous Peoples of Canada, especially the children.

It was established in 1998. The organization's goal is to bring awareness to the discrimination faced by Indigenous children.

Based on statistics from the Government of Canada, a higher proportion of Indigenous Peoples self-reported experiencing childhood physical and sexual maltreatment before the age of 15, compared to their non-Indigenous counterparts. Yet these numbers continue to grow.

From 2007 to 2011, more than one-quarter of all deaths among Indigenous children up to 17 were due to external causes of injury. See https://www. aihw.gov.au/reports/indigenous-australians/indigenous-child-safety/summary

Unfortunately, in most cases, a family member was most frequently self-reported as the adult perpetrator. Most are violence committed by parents and guardians.

In 2011, all children under the age of 15 in foster care were primarily Indigenous.

For more information about the Indigenous children and youth abuse report, read https://www.justice.gc.ca/ eng/rp-pr/jr/jf-pf/2017/july03.html.

Have a Heart Day is a day to connect victims' families with resources and support.

The goal of First Nations Child and Family Services of Canada is to build a bridge between communities as the people address the hardships faced by Indigenous families.

For more information about Have a Heart Day, read: https://nationaltoday. com/have-a-heart-day/

Invermere on the Lake

Tel:

914

EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY

Summer Students

The District of Invermere has openings for Summer Students in the Parks Labourer, Garden Labourer and Events Labourer positions in the Public Works Department. This is a temporary full-time or part-time position within the CUPE Local 2982 bargaining unit starting in May until the end of August. Students will be able to work up to 40 hours per week, however we will also consider students for temporary part-time positions for less than 40 hours per week.

DESCRIPTION

Parks Labourers

Under general supervision, the Student Labourer performs a variety of semiskilled and manual labouring duties. Work typically involves tasks such as parks and cemetery landscaping, garbage pick-up, painting, pothole filling, driving, graffiti removal and other tasks as assigned. The days will consist of 8 hour days, with a typical start time of 8 am, however start time may be as early as 6:00am. Typical work days are Monday to Friday, however some weekend shifts will be required.

Gardeners

Under general supervision, the Student Gardener is primarily focused on flowerbed planting and maintenance. Work typically involves helping with the preparation of flowerbeds, gardening tasks involving the cultivation of a variety of flowers and plants in large garden areas, planting, weeding, fertilizing, and pruning numerous varieties of plants, flowers, shrubs, bushes, and trees. The days will consist of 8 hour days, with a typical start time is between 6:00am and 8:00 am depending on activities and weather. Typical work days are Monday to Friday; however some weekend shifts will be required.

Events

Under general supervision, the Student Event will assist with the set up and take down of Movies in the Mountains every Monday evening in July and August between the hours of 4:00 pm-1:00 am. These hours will vary based on the movie start times and daylight hours. Other assigned duties could also include assisting with the set up and take down of other District of Invermere events during July and August.

EMPLOYMENT TERM:

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

STARTING PAY RATE:

The current starting wage for a student is $19.65.

REQUIRED KNOWLEDGE, ABILITIES AND SKILLS

1. Must be enrolled in high school or post secondary school.

2. Some related experience or an equivalent combination of training and experience.

3. Knowledge of Occupational Health & Safety Regulations as related and appropriate.

4.Valid Class 5 BC Drivers License.

HOW TO APPLY:

If you are interested in this position, please send a cover letter and resume outlining your qualifications and experience to corporateservices@invermere. net or the address below quoting “Summer Student 2024 – the position you would like to apply for”.

District of Invermere

Attn: Kindry Luyendyk, Corporate Officer

Box 339, Invermere, BC, V0A 1K0

Tel: (250) 342-9281

Fax: (250) 342-2934

Email: corporateservices@invermere.net

This opportunity will remain open until it is filled.

We thank all applicants for their interest; however, only those considered for an interview will be contacted.

Additional information about this opportunity may be requested by contacting the District’s Corporate Officer.

A plume of smoke rises from the Canal Flats transfer station as a pile of refuse burns behind an overturned trailer.

PHOTO SYD DANIS

FireSmart workshop planned

Columbia Valley Pioneer staff

A planned FireSmart workshop may give you the peace of mind needed as another wildfire season approaches.

The East Kootenay FireSmart Program is hosting an educational workshop for prospective and current ‘Neighbourhood Champions’ next month.

The workshop will feature an open session in the morning to help people make their home and property more resilient to wildfire. The afternoon workshop is designed for current Neighbourhood Champions of the program.

“We want to be able to answer questions for anyone who is interested in the program and give them some insight to what would be involved in getting the FireSmart Program in their own neighbourhood,” said

RDEK Wildfire Resilience Supervisor Terry Balan. At the same time it will provide a learning opportunity for those who have already been involved in the program and are “looking for next steps and peer connections,” Balan added.

The workshop will take place at the Prestige Rocky Mountain Resort in Cranbrook on March 23.

The introductory portion will run from 10 a.m. to noon, followed by lunch and a guest speaker. The ‘Champions’ are invited to join for lunch, the guest speaker, and the rest of the afternoon.

The workshop is free to attend, but spots are limited, so advance registration is required. To register, visit engage.rdek.bc.ca/firesmart by March 8.

To learn more about the Champions program contact Balan at tbalan@rdek.bc.ca or call 250-464-5454.

Board debates CVHS grant

Columbia Valley Pioneer staff

The Columbia Valley Housing Society (CVHS) has been granted $25,000 to do more work to bring more housing to the region.

Earlier this month the Regional District of East Kootenay adopted a resolution to grant this funding from the Columbia Valley Economic Development Service, but not without some debate first.

The original ask was $50,000 but the RDEK did not support that, so an amendment was made to explore $30,000.

Director Mike Gray pointed to the work that CVHS has done so far, noting the board has expanded with a new member from Canal Flats.

“They have two projects to show for it . . . they are part of a something that we need in the valley,” the di-

rector said.

“This is some of the best money we’ve spent in 2023. They want to do more, we need to let them do more. If we only fund 25,000, we are going to see a very demoralized staff.”

Gray said he would like to see the grant higher than $35,000.

But Area F director Susan Clovechok supported the $25,000 amount, which she said is not indicative of how important housing is. “We are not the only source of revenue for this organization,” she pointed out.

Clovechok noted the provincial three per cent tourism industry tax can be applied to housing.

“The money is there . . . [but] I do not believe it falls on residential property owners who are struggling already in increases in taxes. We have a responsibility to find other ways to fund (the CVHS).”

Columbia Valley Churches

LAKE WINDERMERE ALLIANCE CHURCH

While you are with us, you are always welcome to join us Sunday at 10:30 am 326 10th Avenue, Invermere 250-342-9535 | www lwac ca

WINDERMERE VALLEY

SHARED MINISTRY ANGLICAN-UNITED

Minister: Brent Woodard

Sundays at 10:30 am, in-person or on Zoom

For the Zoom link, please visit our website at wvsm ca 110 - 7th Ave. in Invermere.

VALLEY CHRISTIAN ASSEMBLY

Pastor: Justin Furse

Sunday 10 a m Worship Service 4814 Highway Drive, Windermere 250-342-9511 | www.vcachurch net

ROMAN CATHOLIC CHURCH

St. Anthony’s, Canal Flats: Saturday, 4 pm Canadian Martyrs’, Invermere: Saturday 5 pm, Sunday 9 am St. Joseph’s, Radium: Sunday 11 am

Father Francis Dela Cruz | 712 -12th Ave., Invermere 250-342-6167

ST. PETER’S LUTHERAN CHURCH

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

RADIUM CHRISTIAN FELLOWSHIP

Sunday 10 a.m Worship service

Pastor Wayne and Linda Frater | 250-342-6633 #4, 7553 Main St Radium | 250-347-9937

CHURCH OF JESUS CHRIST OF LATTER-DAY SAINTS

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

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

CHURCH OF CHRIST (Iglesia ni Cristo)

Worship Service: Sunday 9 a m , 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

The most powerful ball of energy on earth brings beauty with its brilliance that reaches out in a radiant renaissance to bring light to dark places.