Columbia Valley Pioneer - October 19, 2023

Vol. 20/Issue 42

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The Columbia Valley

October 19, 2023

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October 19, 2023

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During a recent unseasonably warm week, the valley was full of vibrant shades of blue and gold. In autumn, the Columbia River is a wildlife photographer’s dream. A kayaker puts their paddle down and picks up the camera for a chance to capture a bird of prey.

Photos by Ryan Watmough

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Many, many more draws will continue through 2023

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October 19, 2023

The Columbia Valley Pioneer

VALLEY NEWS

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STR survey waiting for residents’ feedback

By Steve Hubrecht steve@columbiavalleypioneer.com Invermere is conducting an online survey to get feedback about its proposed short-term rental (STR) bylaw.

A bylaw to regulate STRs in the District of Invermere has been years in making, but the process is nearly done and a bylaw could be in place as early as this winter.

The number of STRs has grown dramatically in recent years across the country, but even more acutely so in destination communities such as Invermere. Other municipal entities in the Columbia Valley moved more swiftly than Invermere, with the Village of Radium Hot Springs having adopted an STR bylaw more than two years ago, and the Regional District of East Kootenay (RDEK) adopting its STR bylaw earlier this summer (The Village of Canal Flats does not have an STR bylaw, but also does not have the same staggering numbers of STRs as does Invermere, Radium and parts of the RDEK). Invermere’s slow pace led to criticism from local residents who questioned why the district was lagging behind.

The proposed bylaw was recently put to the public during a series of three information and engagement meetings on Friday Oct. 5 which collectively attracted 54 people. At the same time, the district launched an online survey on its website to gauge public opinion. The deadline to fill out the survey is Friday, Oct. 27.

Invermere’s proposed STR bylaw entails a two-pronged approach to dealing with STRs — with business licensing as the primary means of regulation, and temporary use permits (TUPs) a secondary means. The district is considering setting a limit of one business licence per STR owner; having a maximum occupancy of 10 people in an STR (and a maximum of five bedrooms in STRs in R2 residentially zoned areas); setting a minimum 30 minute response time for STR operators to deal with complaints; having STR operators provide contact information to the district and close neighbours (within 25 metres); and having STR operators create parking plans.

There have been discussions of — but no firm decisions yet — restrictions on operation of hot tubs, pools, and fire pits in STRs; limits on the number of STRs permitted within a given geographical area; and on noise monitoring of STRs. At one time Invermere officials had talked about creating a bylaw with very steep fines for those who break it — up to $50,000, but the latest approach outlines a five-step series of escalating penalties for breaking the STR bylaw, beginning with a friendly letter and a $50 fine, then a

cautionary letter and a $500 fine, a probationary letter and a $2,000 fine, termination of business licence and a $5,000 fine, and finally a referral to provincial court and a $5,000 fine.

“We’re looking at something a little more reasonable (than $50,000) but that is high enough thats it’s not just viewed as the cost of doing business,” Invermere Mayor Al Miller told the Pioneer, explaining the $5,000 figure. He noted that the cost for not following the bylaw could still escalate beyond $50,000 “but that would be getting into going to court.”

Miller was pleased with the turnout at the engagement sessions. “There were some good conversations, I was impressed. There are obviously some concerns and legitimately so. People got their points across.”

One of the most common concerns raised was the proliferation of STRs in single family residential neighbourhoods (often those with R1 residential zoning).

“Families living in these neighbourhoods are seeing more STRs in these areas, and that’s bringing in a lot of traffic,” said Miller. “People are worried about keeping a sense of community. How do we make sure the feel of Invermere doesn’t change (as a result of STRs)? I don’t blame them, Invermere does have a good community feel. How do we retain that?”

Has that feedback inspired council members to implement a limit on the number of STRs in a neighbourhood?

Not yet, although it will be a point of further discussion before the bylaw is adopted.

“These are things we have to contemplate,” said Miller. “We’ll take the feedback, crunch that together and try to make some good decisions.”

Miller said that everything can still be changed – both things that do not yet have any potential direction indicated (limits on number of STRs in a neighbourhood; hot tubs, pools and fire pits; noise monitoring) and things that do have potential direction indicated (fines and penalties; maximum occupancy limits; even the whole idea of a two-pronged approach).

“Nothing has been finalized yet,” he said.

Miller added he feels some STRs in Invermere are not only inevitable, but are in fact needed, saying, “we have a lack of hotel rooms. STRs are a way for visitors to travel to and enjoy our community. They spend in our town, keep our economy rolling and help create jobs.”

He expects the bylaw will be adopted some time in January or February.

To fill out the survey, visit: questionnaire.simplesurvey.com/f/l/STR or request a hard copy at the District of Invermere office.

The District of Invermere is proposing a new bylaw to regulate short-term rentals and is encouraging residents to fill out the survey.

Photo by Pawel Kacperek/Getty Images

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The Columbia Valley Pioneer

October 19, 2023

SECURITY • • • •

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Invermere & Surrounding Areas

UPCOMING EVENTS Ser

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WRITE ON! Writers’ Group

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6:00-6:30 pm How-to Session 6:30-7:00 pm Project Sharing October 25 - At the Library or Zoom.

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Please Email publiclibrary@invermere.net for details.

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By Sgt. Ed deJong Columbia Valley RCMP This past week, October 9 to 16, the Columbia Valley RCMP responded to 88 calls for service. The following is a summary of some of the files our officers responded to: On October 9 a member was conducting patrols for an unrelated file when they observed a white pickup truck with Alberta plates parked in a driveway. The truck was confirmed stolen out of Calgary and a male was arrested on outstanding warrants. The man was held in custody for court and the charges will be forwarded to Crown in relation to the stolen vehicle.

The Columbia Valley RCMP have received several

reports of community mailboxes being broken into over the past week. It is likely the suspects are looking for government cheques. An investigation revealed a white, four- door hatchback may be related to the thefts. If anyone has information regarding these thefts, please contact the Columbia Valley RCMP at 250-342-9292.

There has been an increase in fraud/scammer complaints where victims are being convinced to purchase gift cards for various reasons.

If anyone calls you and attempts to get you to purchase (and send) gift cards or any other item online, hang up and report the incident to the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre at 1-888-495-8501 or online at www.antifraudcentre-centreantifraude.ca.

Canfor mill fire double-teamed

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Columbia Valley Pioneer staff A fire at Canfor mill in Radium Hot Springs on October 11 was a great example of how mutual aid works between fire departments.

Eight firefighters initially responded to the blaze at around noon when it was determined that a structure that houses wooden shavings (and dust) caught fire.

It was soon evident that more resources were required to deal with the incident, so the Radium Fire Department requested mutual aid and received help from the Columbia Valley Rural Fire & Rescue Services, which used its aerial apparatus (ladder truck) to tackle the fire.

There was no report of any injuries, and no information on damages.

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October 19, 2023

The Columbia Valley Pioneer

Council tries to stop stink

By Steve Hubrecht steve@columbiavalleypioneer.com The District of Invermere’s sewage lagoons cast an awful stench across parts of the community this past spring, prompting a number of upset residents to appear before council pleading with the district to do something about the problem.

A similar reek next spring may be averted, after council last week approved spending $293,000 to install a new aeration system in the lagoons.

The money will come out of a surplus in last year’s municipal sewer operating fund and will include $226,000 for a larger aeration system in sewage lagoons one and two, $30,000 for a continuous dissolved oxygen monitoring system, and a 15 per cent contingency of $37,000.

“With the situation we have, we pretty much have to install a new aeration system instead of refitting the existing system,” Invermere director of public works and operations Angela MacLean told council members during their Tuesday, Oct. 10 meeting.

In a report to council she explained that dissolved oxygen levels in lagoon one were very low during last spring’s stink, and were probably reaching anoxic conditions, meaning the “good” bacteria that break down sewage waste die off.

The lagoon’s aeration system put oxygen into the water by bubbling air through the water column. “Over

time the equipment that creates the bubbles breaks down resulting in larger bubbles and less overall oxygen transfer. The environment of the lagoon system and the cold winters in Invermere tend to be very hard on these systems and some components in the current system have likely reached the end of their useful service life,” wrote MacLean in the report. “With the setup of our current system, steel pipes are connected to diffuser socks on the bottom of the lagoon. Because of this it is very difficult for staff to monitor equipment performance or make repairs to the aeration system without draining the lagoon.”

The new system staff plan to install will be easier to inspect and repair, and means such work can be done without draining the lagoon.

Adding a continuous dissolved oxygen monitoring system will give district staff a “better understanding of lagoon performance and (they) can make adjustments to the operation of the system sooner,” wrote MacLean.

Council members were quick to agree to the idea.

MacLean explained that the bulk of the cost for the new aeration system — $160,000 — is for the manufacturing of the equipment, and it would be at least six weeks from when the district agrees to buy the system until it can be installed. MacLean said this means the new system could possibly still be installed by this fall, so long as the lagoons do not freeze up too early.

“Let’s not delay any further then,” said Invermere Mayor Al Miller. “Please have it in place by the spring.”

“We are trying,” MacLean responded.

We would like to thank Tara Field and the staff at Kootenay Savings Invermere for choosing Cycling Without Age as the recipient of their “Care Wear” funds to be used in support of our program. We are thankful for their support and recognition and will use the funds to continue giving rides to the elderly and less mobile members of our community!

-Thank you, Blaine Nester and Don Devlin

BC Timber Sales Operating Plan #24-3 East Kootenay Operating Area The public is invited to review and comment on Operating Plan #24-3 being prepared by BC Timber Sales under its approved Forest Stewardship Plan #601. Comments will be accepted on or before November 20, 2023.

Operating Plan #24-3 includes proposed logging and road construction located in the vicinity of: Mia Creek Wildfire perimeter – Fire #N22240 Horsethief Creek Wildfire perimeter – Fire #N22242 Kamma Creek Wildfire perimeter – Fire #N71918 Maps can be viewed online at: https://bit.ly/BCTS_OP24-3 Comments must be submitted in writing to: Planning Forester East Kootenay Field Team 1902 Theatre Rd, Cranbrook, BC, V1C 7G1 tko.ref@gov.bc.ca 250-426-1766

Residents press for ‘Step’

By Steve Hubrecht steve@columbiavalleypioneer.com Local residents are urging Invermere council to adopt the Zero Carbon Step — the final step in B.C.’s Energy Step Code — as soon as possible.

Zero Carbon is the fifth out of five steps in the program. The District of Invermere adopted Energy Step Code Step 3 this past January, which requires all new homes be built to meet energy efficiency standards. Step Code 5 (the Zero Carbon Step) requires that all homes be constructed to “net-zero” standards, meaning they produce as much energy as they consume.

ThinkBright Homes Ltd. director Meredith Hamstead appeared before Invermere council at its Tuesday, Oct. 10 meeting, making the case for Invermere to adopt the Zero Carbon Step well before the provincial government is scheduled to mandate it in 2032. (Step 4 is scheduled to become mandatory in 2027).

“It’s an unbelievable opportunity,” Hamstead told council. “It’s absolutely viable, it’s absolutely affordable.”

Hamstead shared a few statistics to begin her presentation; pointing out that natural gas, fuel oil, and propane burned in buildings make up 12 per cent of B.C.’s overall carbon emissions.

In the Columbia Basin those three sources make up

29 per cent of the basin’s overall carbon emissions. And here in Invermere they account for 34 per cent of the district’s overall carbon emissions.

A total of 55 per cent of building emissions in Invermere come from residential fossil fuels — 34 per cent from residential propane and 21 per cent from residential heating oil. What is that energy used for? As Hamstead outlined, 64 per cent gets used for space heating; 35 per cent for water heating; and just one per cent for cooking.

This is actually good news when it comes to reducing emissions, since traditional home heating systems and water heating systems can relatively easily be replaced by electric heat pumps and electric water heaters. Hamstead noted, under the Zero Carbon Step, wood burning stoves are still allowed, which would be “great for our region.”

She used a thinkBright Home constructed in 2018 in Westside Park as a case study, noting that it was built in excess of Step 3 requirements (which were not even in place at the time), yet cost roughly the same to construct as a house built to code requirements of the time.

“It’s very, very airtight,” Hamstead said of the house, adding that energy efficiency is “a matter that can be sorted out in design . . . there’s no need to say only fancy homes can have this kind of energy efficiency. This is a modest home.”

Continued on page 7

REACH OUT

95th Birthday Celebration for

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The Columbia Valley Pioneer

PERSPECTIVE

Editorial Starting your own business is an exciting but scary proposition.

The thought of being your own boss and answering to nobody but yourself is uplifting. If you screw up, you can’t be berated or fired, and your lunch breaks won’t be timed by a bean counter. And hey, you just might make enough money to retire some day.

On the other hand, running a small business can keep you up at night stressing over financials, new hires, and customers who aren’t always right. And when was the last time you scheduled a holiday around a seven-day work week?

Yes, you shed a lot of blood, sweat and tears operating a business, but it’s yours and something to be proud of as you contribute to the economy every day. In fact, you make the world go around by spending money and keeping people employed. So, our hats off to you and the Columbia Valley Chamber of Commerce for recognizing local businesses during its 24th annual Business Excellence Awards.

A Statistics Canada report says smaller businesses employed more than 10 million people (63 per cent of all employees) in 2022. Big business employed 3.6 million individuals (21 per cent). You can see how small enterprises really shape the economy.

But another Statistics Canada survey in early 2023 points to a number of obstacles hindering small business, such as rising inflation, debt, supply chain issues, and an expectation of lower profits.

According to collected data, five per cent of small businesses do not survive their first year; more than 70 per cent fail because of management issues.

But take heart, there are countless stories about successful businesses, which is why the Chamber is honouring them. These businesses succeeded because they did their market research, balanced the books, and hired the right people (and treated them well).

These dedicated entrepreneurs work very hard in the valley to keep our economy moving in the right direction, but they can’t do it alone – they need “you.” Shopping local is critical to their survival. Are you really saving money by travelling outside the valley for a deal? Our financial well-being depends on your dollars staying here so that these businesses can continue to serve you and keep families employed.

Businesses of the bizarre We leave you with these strange business ventures: • Cuddle parties where you can cuddle with others • Send rotten flowers or glitter bombs to enemies • Smash things in an “anger room” • Reserve a spot in heaven?

• Be the hero in a customized novel • Hire a professional potty trainer • Rent a man or woman to be your “hot” date.

• Sober up in a hangover clinic • Hire people to fill seats at your wedding • Cover up a lie with an airtight alibi.

• Hire paparazzi to follow you around in public.

Lyonel Doherty, editor

A group of men plays a game of curling on Lake Windermere in 1911. You can see Mount Swansea in the background.

Photo provided by the Windermere and District Historical Society

Fill out the survey for STRs I wish to thank the staff and council members of the District of Invermere (DOI) who expressed their initiative and concerns during the three public presentations and input meetings on Thursday, Oct. 5 regarding short term rentals (STRs) in town.

I now have a better understanding of the impacts and issues of STRs within the community and neighbourhoods (of the DOI and the province) that are altering the fabric of “place and space living” for full-time residents and second homeowners.

There is a survey available online regarding the “Proposals to Regulate Short-Rental Accommodation Units” which you can find by googling “Invermere STR rental survey.”

While I'm not totally opposed to this accommodation gold rush of STR properties, I do believe the survey

is necessary to give the DOI council your opinions for needed regulation, management and enforcement of this upcoming bylaw. This survey is available until Friday, Oct. 27 and takes a short time to complete which could alter how you enjoy your privacy, authenticity, and community development in the future.

Decisions will come quickly as the first reading with the DOI council will take place on Tuesday, Nov. 14.

So after two years of process here is your opportunity to support and influence the STR bylaw, whether for or against.

Please be pro-active by becoming more informed and fill out the survey so that STRs can be properly zoned, managed and enforced very soon in Invermere.

Pat Bavin, Invermere

The Columbia Valley

CANADIAN COMMUNITY NEWSPAPER AWARD 2013

PIONEER

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October 19, 2023

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The Columbia Valley Pioneer is available free of charge at 13 essential businesses in the Upper Columbia Valley, limited to one copy per reader.

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

October 19, 2023

The Columbia Valley Pioneer

Visitor report shows return to travel

Columbia Valley Pioneer staff A 2022 year-end report by Valley Visitor Services (VVS) shows a return of travel despite lingering impacts from the COVID-19 pandemic.

In last week’s correspondence to the Regional District of East Kootenay (RDEK), VVS reported a “very strong year” with the return of US, European and Asian visitors.

It was noted that the Kicking Horse Canyon project prompted another two rounds of Highway 1 closures, resulting in visitor service teams fielding many questions and concerns from travellers. But hiring young people familiar with the Columbia Valley strengthened the network this season, VVS reported, noting Radium Visitor Centre was successful in hiring four summer staff in part-

Valley Visitor Services reports that 2022 saw a return of a more normal travel year.

Photo by Ryan Watmough

nership with Friends of Kootenay National Park. In fact, visitors were booking longer stays and exploring more amenities and activities, according to VVS. The VVS saw a number of challenges last year, including more competition attracting visitors, underfunding of wage costs, and difficulty hiring workers to open the Fairmont or downtown Invermere kiosks.

Last year Radium Hot Springs Visitor Centre saw 54,780 visitors, compared to 24,851 in 2020. A team of talented youth was hired to work in the centre, and at the end of August, Tourism Radium hired a new visitor centre and administration manager, and retained an ad-

ditional full-time staff member for fall/winter.

At Invermere Crossroads Visitor Centre, a total of 2,547 individuals passed through in 2022, compared to 2,616 in 2020. The most common request during the summer months continues to be hiking recommendations. Overall, Columbia Valley visitor origin in 2022 were as follows: Local residents (1,204), BC (4,775), Alberta (12,835), other Canada (3,055), Washington (235), California (222), US/Mexico (2,753), Europe (2,309), Asia/Australia (179), other (64).

“Overall, 2022 saw the return of a more ‘normal’ travel year,” the VVS reported.

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Zero Carbon Continued from page 5 Hamstead outlined that the Columbia Valley as an advantage when it comes to going Zero Carbon: it does not have a natural gas, so there is no need to wean people off that fossil fuel as a home energy source. It’s a different story in Kimberley and Cranbrook, where natural gas is the main energy source in a great many homes.

With no natural gas, high propane prices, and most homes in Invermere already using electricity as their primary energy source “in our region it’s not a question of cost,” she said, later adding “something like this will always ruffle some feathers, but if the District of Invermere were to early adopt this (Zero Carbon Step), the consequences would be essentially none.” She further added that Step Code 5 would apply only to new builds and “it doesn’t hit people who are already in their homes”.

Councillor Theresa Wood said that although the Zero Carbon Step may not entail any extra costs, public perception could well be very much the opposition.

“There’s an education piece there that may be missing,” said Wood, adding that with the district in the grip of a housing crisis, anything that is perceived to be making things more expensive, even if the perception is untrue, would not be well received by the public. Wood also asked if it was wise to “put all the eggs in one basket” by using electricity as the only primary energy source for homes.

Hamstead said this is a legitimate concern, but not a credible reason not to go forward. She noted the planet is heating up and becoming more combustible each year.

Local resident Tracy Flynn outlined that there are many rebate programs to help homeowners looking to become more energy efficient.

7

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The Columbia Valley Pioneer

October 19, 2023

Renowned art show features local man

By Steve Hubrecht steve@columbiavalleypioneer.com

Stephen McGarva is shown here outside the art show.

Photo submitted

The family of Wayne Geiger would like to thank the doctors and nurses of Invermere District Hospital and the Home Care angels for their kindness to Jayne.

A very special Thank You to Dr. Maslowska for her care and compassion.

-Wayne

A Windermere man is spending October in Siena, Italy where his drawings are being displayed in a renowned art show.

Stephen McGarva grew up in the Columbia Valley before moving to southern California as a young adult.

He still lives there now, with his wife and daughters, but returns to the valley (which he still calls “home”) at least several times a year, most recently this past summer for his 40th high school grad reunion. It was as a boy in Windermere that he first developed a love of art, influenced by the valley’s many artistic residents.

That talent earned him a scholarship to the Emily Carr University of Art + Design upon graduating from David Thompson Secondary School (DTSS), but guidance counsellors persuaded him to choose a more practical career path. He became a mechanic instead, but the desire to create stayed with him, and he would sculpt and create in his spare time. Eventually, he began devoting more time to art, a move that ended up with him in Tuscany this month.

The show — the Cavalli d’Autore — has a horse theme, and that’s no coincidence, as Siena’s main public square is the site of the famed Palio horse race. McGarva’s younger daughter Ella, 11, has long been drawn to horse and rides competitively in dressage. Beyond that, Ella seems to have a unique ability with horses.

“People will say, ‘oh, that horse can’t be ridden, can’t be tamed. But then Ella will ride it. She seems to have a connection with horses,” said McGarva. That connection inspired him, and he began drawing horses. He posts images of his art on his social media accounts, and one day, out of the blue, he received a call from one of the Cavalli d’Autore organizers, asking him to be part of the show.

McGarva hesitated at first — his life is full and family is his first priority. He explained he was too busy, thanked the organizer for her interest and hung up. His wife, Pamela, asked who had called and he explained.

Pamela told McGarva he was crazy, that very-well known artists can go a whole career trying to get into this show and not make it. So McGarva called the organizer right back and sheepishly explained he would in fact be delighted to be part of the show.

“Luckily they were still interested in having me,” said McGarva. In fact, of the 18 artists in the show this year, McGarva is the only one to have more than a single piece of art featured.

McGarva’s drawings of horses, including the two in the Cavalli d’Autore, are not ordinary drawings. They are instead a type of art called ‘stippling’. To create them, McGarva uses an ultra-fine pencil (just 0.1 millimetres thick, about 1/10 the width of a dime) to make dots. Quite a lot of dots. He makes eight to 12 dots per second, and then continues making them at that pace for dozens, if not hundreds of hours. The dots together form an image that has a vivid, photo-realistic look. In fact many people who see his art initially mistake it for photography.

His main piece at the Cavalli d’Autore, for instance, took 180 hours to make, and is composed of — by conservative estimate — 5.4 million dots.

“Horses are a really unique subject. They are very difficult to draw . . . you really have to study them, to understand them, before you can draw them,” McGarva told the Pioneer. “I feel each subject requires a different medium. For me, when it comes to horses, this (stippling) is mine.”

McGarva explained that black and white stippling, which he’s done for about three years now, was not his first choice for a medium. “In fact, my mind tends to think in vivid colours and three dimensions, totally different to what I’ve done for the show,” he said.

So how did he end up stippling?

“I’ve always been fascinated by black and white photography, by Ansel Adams. But I didn’t want to do photography. So I found a different way to create a similar effect. The dotting is quite interesting in that respect — you can create all this shading, from the deepest darks to the lightest highlights, all with dots,” he said. “But, yes, it is insanely time-consuming.”

A typical day sees McGarva wake up early and work on his art until his wife and daughters are awake. After breakfast, McGarva whisks the girls to school while Pamela heads off to work. McGarva comes home, working on his art until mid-afternoon, when he picks his daughters up. In the evening, after dinner, he’ll spend a few more hours on his art, and then some more time on the weekends.

Continued on page 14

THE TOWN HALL MEETINGS ARE COMING. Area

F

OCT 23

7:00PM – VOLUNTEER OF THE YEAR CELEBRATION: HONOURING

BRUCE HAMSTEAD

7:30PM – TOWN HALL MEETING

7:00PM

TOPICS FOR THE TOWN HALL MEETING INCLUDE:

COLUMBIA VALLEY CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

• • • •

651 HWY 93/95, Invermere

Director’s Report Short Term Rentals Regulation Update Five-Year Financial Plan Cold Spring Creek Debris Flow Mitigation & Guidance Projects and more • Climate Action Plan

Area

G

NOV 2

7:00PM

EDGEWATER COMMUNITY HALL 4818 SELKIRK AVE, Edgewater

7:00PM – VOLUNTEER OF THE YEAR CELEBRATION: HONOURING

NORM JULIEN

7:30PM – TOWN HALL MEETING

TOPICS FOR THE TOWN HALL MEETING INCLUDE: • • • • • •

Director’s Report Short Term Rentals Regulation Update Five-Year Financial Plan Radium Transfer Station Update Climate Action Plan and more CV Active Transportation Project

19 – 24 Avenue South, Cranbrook BC V1C 3H8 | 250-489-2791 | 1-888-478-7335 | Fax: 250-489-3498 | info@rdek.bc.ca | www.rdek.bc.ca

October 19, 2023

The Columbia Valley Pioneer

PUBLIC HEARING NOTICE – BYLAW 3255 – New Zoning Bylaw – Area F and Area G The Regional District of East Kootenay (RDEK) Board of Directors is considering adoption of the Columbia Valley Zoning Bylaw. The zoning bylaw will replace the current Upper Columbia Valley Zoning Bylaw No. 900.

Bylaw No. 3255 is cited as“Regional District of East Kootenay – Columbia Valley Zoning Bylaw No. 3255, 2023.”Bylaw No. 3255 applies to all land within Electoral Area F and Electoral Area G. A public hearing will be held via Zoom webinar conference: Wednesday, November 1, 2023 at 7:00 pm.

The Board has delegated the holding of this hearing to the Directors for Electoral Area F and Electoral Area G.If you believe that your interest in property is affected by the proposed Bylaw, you may prior to the hearing: • inspect the Bylaw by viewing the Bylaw and associated Map Schedules at: engage.rdek.bc.ca or requesting that an information package be emailed to you by contacting kmacleod@rdek.bc.ca. Information packages may be requested up until Monday, October 30, 2023 at 4:30 pm; • mail or email written submissions to the address shown below before Monday, October 30, 2023 at 4:30 pm; • present verbal submissions at the public hearing.

You must pre-register in order to attend and provide verbal presentations or make comments at the hearing. The deadline to register is Monday, October 30 at 4:30 pm.

Register in advance for this webinar: https://us02web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_khCfmHN6TLGX6ftIJSJ00g or by visiting www.rdek.bc.ca (Meetings/Minutes, Public Hearings and Meetings page).

SUBMISSIONS CANNOT BE ACCEPTED AFTER THE PUBLIC HEARING. All submissions will form part of the public record and will be published in a meeting agenda posted online. Personal contact information such as phone and email will be removed from written submissions. Questions about the disclosure of your personal information may be referred to the Corporate Officer at 250-489-2791 or 1-888-478-7335.

This notice is not an interpretation of the Bylaw. For more information, contact Karen MacLeod, Planning Supervisor at 250-489-0313 or toll free at 1-888-478-7335 or email kmacleod@rdek.bc.ca.

PUBLIC HEARING NOTICE – BYLAWS 3256 & 3257 – Bylaw Amendments – Windermere North The Regional District of East Kootenay (RDEK) Board of Directors is considering an application by Shawn & Christine Colbert, Roscoe Dalke, Kindry Luyendyk & Helen Metcalfe to amend the zone designations for three parcels to permit increasing the size of the two smaller parcels and facilitate a two lot subdivision on the larger parcel and to amend the OCP designation for those parts being added to the existing residential lots.

Bylaw No. 3256 cited as“Regional District of East Kootenay – Lake Windermere Official Community Plan Bylaw No. 2929, 2019 – Amendment Bylaw No. 10, 2023 (Windermere North / Colbert, Dalke, Luyendyk, Metcalfe)”will amend the designations for those parts of Lot 1, District Lot 704, Kootenay District, Plan 5353 and Lot 2, District Lot 704, Kootenay District, Plan 2554, Except Parts Included in Plans 2737, 5216, 5353, 8480, 11998 and Reference Plan 141750I and Lot C, District Lot 704, Kootenay District, Plan 11998 from SH, Small Holdings to R-SF, Residential Low Density.

Bylaw No. 3257 cited as“Regional District of East Kootenay – Upper Columbia Valley Zoning Bylaw No. 900, 1992 – Amendment Bylaw No. 394 (Windermere North / Colbert, Dalke, Luyendyk, Metcalfe)”will amend the designations for Lot 1, District Lot 704, Kootenay District, Plan 5353 and Lot 2, District Lot 704, Kootenay District, Plan 2554, Except Parts Included in Plans 2737, 5216, 5353, 8480, 11998 and Reference Plan 141750I and Lot C, District Lot 704, Kootenay District, Plan 11998 from R-1, Single Family Residential and SH-2, Small Holding Semi-Rural to R-1(A), Single Family Residential (A) and SH-1, Small Holding Residential.

A public hearing will be held via Zoom webinar conference: Wednesday, November 1, 2023 at 7:00 pm.

The Board has delegated the holding of this hearing to the Directors for Electoral Area F and G. If you believe that your interest in property is affected by the proposed Bylaws, you may prior to the hearing: • inspect the Bylaws and supporting information by requesting that an information package be emailed to you by contacting bkormos@rdek.bc.ca. Information packages may be requested up until Monday, October 30, 2023 at 4:30 pm; • mail or email written submissions to the address shown below before Monday, October 30, 2023 at 4:30 pm; • present verbal submissions at the public hearing.

You must pre-register in order to attend and provide verbal presentations or make comments at the hearing. The deadline to register is Monday, October 30, 2023 at 4:30 pm.

Register in advance for this webinar: https://us02web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_khCfmHN6TLGX6ftIJSJ00g or by visiting www.rdek.bc.ca (Meetings/Minutes, Public Hearings and Meetings page).

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

SUBMISSIONS CANNOT BE ACCEPTED AFTER THE PUBLIC HEARING. All submissions will form part of the public record and will be published in a meeting agenda posted online. Personal contact information such as phone and email will be removed from written submissions. Questions about the disclosure of your personal information may be referred to the Corporate Officer at 250-489-2791 or 1-888-478-7335.

This notice is not an interpretation of the Bylaws. For more information, contact Brett Kormos, Planning Technician at 250-489-0306 or toll free at 1-888-478-7335 or email bkormos@rdek.bc.ca.

PUBLIC HEARING NOTICE – BYLAW 3259 – Bylaw Amendment – Fairmont The Regional District of East Kootenay (RDEK) Board of Directors is considering an application by Marble Ridge Developments Ltd. to amend the zoning designation of part of their property to permit future development. The property is located at 5150 Fairway Drive, as shown on the attached map.

Bylaw No. 3259 cited as“Regional District of East Kootenay – Upper Columbia Valley Zoning Bylaw No. 900, 1992 – Amendment Bylaw No. 395, 2023 (Fairmont / Marble Ridge Developments Ltd)”will amend the zone designation of that portion of Lot 1, District Lot 18, Kootenay District, Plan NEP 86780, Except Strata Plan EPS111 (Phases 1 to 3) & Common Property Strata Plan EPS111 from RES-4, Resort Core Zone to RES-3, Resort Lodge Zone.

A public hearing will be held via Zoom webinar conference: Thursday, November 2, 2023 at 7:00 pm The Board has delegated the holding of this hearing to the Directors for Electoral Areas F and G. If you believe that your interest in property is affected by the proposed Bylaw, you may prior to the hearing: • inspect the Bylaw and supporting information by requesting that an information package be emailed to you by contacting bkormos@rdek.bc.ca. Information packages may be requested up until Tuesday, October 31, 2023 at 4:30 pm; • mail or email written submissions to the addresses shown below before Tuesday, October 31, 2023 at 4:30 pm; • present verbal submissions at the public hearing.

You must pre-register in order to attend and provide verbal presentations or make comments at the hearing. The deadline to register is Tuesday, October 31, 2023 at 4:30 pm.

Register in advance for this webinar: https://us02web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_j5gUHGUOQIemWEqivN2tdg or by visiting www.rdek.bc.ca (Meetings/Minutes, Public Hearings and Meetings page).

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

SUBMISSIONS CANNOT BE ACCEPTED AFTER THE PUBLIC HEARING. All submissions will form part of the public record and will be published in a meeting agenda posted online. Personal contact information such as phone and email will be removed from written submissions. Questions about the disclosure of your personal information may be referred to the Corporate Officer at 250-489-2791 or 1-888-478-7335.

This notice is not an interpretation of the Bylaws. For more information, contact Brett Kormos, Planning Technician at 250-489-0306 or toll free at 1-888-478-7335 or email bkormos@rdek.bc.ca.

19 – 24 Avenue South, Cranbrook BC V1C 3H8 | 250-489-2791 | 1-888-478-7335 | Fax: 250-489-3498 | info@rdek.bc.ca | www.rdek.bc.ca

9

10

The Columbia Valley Pioneer

October 19, 2023

OUT OF OFFICE… 24th ANNUAL

BUSINESS EXCELLENCE AWARDS The time is here! Join the business community this evening for the 24th Annual Business Excellence Awards – we’ve been talking about them for weeks, and today is the day. The Rockies Hockey team will be on hand to provide a safe ride home after your enjoyable evening, so let loose and have fun! You’ve earned it! And if you are reading this after Thursday, a huge congratulations to our amazing list of winners…

Ha! Just kidding! You’ll have to wait until next week if you missed the party!

Also coming up on the schedule are a few other exciting events at the Chamber: Monday October 23 is an update with local government representatives from Radium, Invermere, Area F & Area G will present their priorities and experiences from the recent UBCM conference. This event runs from 11:30am to 1:00pm at the Chamber Lions Hall and includes a delicious catered lunch of your choice from Smokehouse 93 for $25. Come for the politicians, stay for the food! Please register so we know how much food to order.

Next up on Thursday October 26 is Taxes for Home Based Businesses. Kyla from Aspire Professional Corp will be on hand to help with the slightly more fun inevitability. This workshop will equip you with essential knowledge to manage your home-based business’s taxes effectively. Whether you’re a freelancer, sole proprietor, or small business owner, you’ll leave with valuable insights to save money and grow your venture. Join us at the Chamber Lions Hall at 9am for coffee and taxes – please register!

And finally, we are in the midst of Small Business Month in Canada. While we celebrate in a big way by recognizing excellence throughout the valley, it’s important to celebrate in small ways as well – make a point to buy something from a brick-and-mortar store, leave a social media review for a home-based business, or just tag a local business you love! Even the small things can make a big difference, and our strength as a community depends on us BEING a community. All right; sappy rant over. I’m going shopping!

Deanna Berrington Communications & Member Events Coordinator

October 19, 2023

Thursday, October 19 • 10:00am-12:00pm: Outdoor Pickleball Mt. Nelson Athletic Park, Drop-in Play.

• 10:30am-11:30am: Senior’s Fitness Columbia Valley Centre, $2 dropin.

• 11:30am-12:00pm: Little Lambs Radium Hot Springs Library. Join us for songs, rhymes, and stories with your babies! No registration required.

• 2:00pm-3:00pm: Needles & Hooks. Invermere Library. Join us on the 1st & 3rd Thursday of each month at 2:00pm for Needles & Hooks. Bring your current yarn project and meet with other makers. All welcome!

• 6:30pm: Indoor Pickleball Invermere Curling Club. Advance Play.

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

• 7:30pm: Trivia Night Windermere Whitehouse Pub.

Friday, October 20 • 10:00am-12:00pm: Outdoor Pickleball Mt. Nelson Athletic Park, Drop-in Play.

• 10:30am-11:00am: Family Storytime. Invermere Public Library. Join us weekly on Fridays and/or Saturdays for Family Storytime at the library! With stories, songs & a craft. Geared towards preschool age (2-5) but all welcome.

• 2:00pm-3:00pm: Friday Funday. Invermere Library. Crafternoon: fun new craft each session! Fall and Halloween themed this month. Drop-in programming. Drop-off for ages 7+. Younger children are more than welcome to join with a grown-up.

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

• 6:30pm-8:30pm: Indoor Pickleball Invermere Curling Club.

• 7:00pm-10:00pm: Columbia Valley Rockies vs Grand Forks

Saturday, October 21 • 1:00pm-4:00pm: Peter Peter Pumpkin Eater Classic District of Invermere, Ullr Bar & Begginnings Restaurant. Side-by-side elimination race of handcrafted, decorated Pumpkin Racers. Enter a pumpkin racer or come as a spectator. All entries must be pre-registered. The Great Pumpkin Street Race will be held on 13th St near Begginnings Restaurant & Ullr Bar at 1pm sharp!

• 10:00am-12:00pm: Outdoor Pickleball Mt. Nelson Athletic Park, Drop-in Play.

• 10:30am-11:00am: Family Storytime. Invermere Public Library. Join us

The Columbia Valley Pioneer

weekly on Fridays and/or Saturdays for Family Storytime at the library! With stories, songs & a craft. Geared towards preschool age (2-5) but all welcome.

• 10:30am-11:30am: Pokemon Club at Main Street Fun & Games for ages 7+, Reading proficiency required.

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

• 11:00am-12:00pm: STEAM Games & Activities. Radium Hot Springs Public Library. Our STEAM sessions are designed to encourage children to develop an interest in Science, Technology, Engineering, Art and Math at a young age. There will be new activities and gadgets featured at each STEAM session! Children under 12 must be accompanied by an adult • 2:00pm-4:00pm: Buddy Reading. Invermere Library. Book a one-on-one 30 minute reading session to practice reading aloud! Build skill, confidence, and a love of reading. Contact us to book a 30 minute session between 2-4 pm on Saturdays at the library. All reading abilities welcome. publiclibrary@invermere. net • 6:30pm: Meat Draw and 50/50 in the Legion! Members and guests welcome!

• 7:00pm-10:00pm: Columbia Valley Rockies vs Summerland

Sunday, October 22 • 2:00pm: Cards, Cribbage and Darts Come to the Legion and have some fun!

Members and guests welcome.

• 2:00pm-4:00pm: Indoor Pickleball Open play at Curling Club.

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

Monday, October 23 • 10:00am-12:00pm: Outdoor Pickleball. Mt. Nelson Athletic Park, Drop-in Play.

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

• 5:00pm-7:00pm: Super Happy Fun Time!! Valley Voices Choir. Christ Church Trinity. We want you!!!! Come Sing With US!!! Super fun happy times!! Emailbryantolender@icloud.com. see you soon!!

• 6:30pm-8:300pm: Indoor Pickleball. Invermere Curling Club.

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

11

Tuesday, October 24 • 9:30am-10:30am: Parent Tot Yoga. Mountain Home Yoga. Wellrounded yoga practice and play. Follow along, or attend to your child, no pressure to participate (this grace is extended to your instructor Laura and her daughter Winnie too!) Here we invite the littlest of us to learn mindfulness, loving-kindness and compassion, while practicing breath and playing with postures. All ages welcome!

• 10:00am-12:00pm: Outdoor Pickleball. Mt. Nelson Athletic Park, Drop-in Play.

• 10:30am-11:30am: Senior's Fitness Columbia Valley Centre. $2 drop-in.

• 10:30am-11:30am: Homeschool Meetup. Invermere Library. Drop-in, all-ages programming with open-ended STEAM play, group activities and art projects. A chance for homeschool kids and families to get together! Please contact us to get on the Homeschool email list to stay up to date and see what extended programs are coming up.

• 6:30pm-8:30pm: Indoor Pickleball Invermere Curling Club, Skills and Drills.

• 6:30pm-8:00pm: Second Winds Community Band. Practice at Invermere Catholic Church Annex. For info please email scndwinds@gmail.com

•

Wednesday, October 25

• 10:00am-12:00pm: Outdoor Pickleball. Mt. Nelson Athletic Park, Drop-in Play.

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

• 11:30am-12:00pm: Story Time. Radium Library - preschool & all ages.

• 3:00pm-4:30pm: After School Club. Invermere Library. A window of transition time between school and home or extra-curriculars. 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 grown-up. Please bring your own snacks! Register. https:// invermere.bc.libraries.coop/ • 6:00pm: Write On! Invermere Library. Join us at the library or on Zoom. 6pm: How to write Family Stories 6:30pm: Share projects and receive feedback.

Attend both, or only one. All welcome! Please email publiclibrary@invermere. net to register.

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

• 6:30pm: Indoor Pickleball Invermere Curling Club, Ladies Night.

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♻

The Columbia Valley Pioneer

national

WASTE REDUCTION week

October 19, 2023

With 6 Recycle BC Depots, Yellow Bins and many municipalities offering curbside pick-up, recycling has never been more convenient in the East Kootenay.

However, not all programs are the same. This guide will help you distinguish what goes where and how the various services differ. = Recycle BC Depots

= Kimberley Curbside system

= Yellow Bins

= Fernie Curbside system

= Cranbrook Curbside system

= Invermere Curbside system

October 15 – 21

PAPER & CARDBOARD PRODUCTS

CONTAINERS

YES.

YES.

• Newspapers/flyers

• Coated paper cups (hot or cold)

• Magazines/catalogues

• Cartons and boxes for milk and milk substitutes

• Office paper/envelopes

• Frozen dessert boxes

• Paper gift wrap/greeting cards

• Soup containers (tin

• Corrugated cardboard

• Milk jugs

• Boxboard (cereal/shoe/tissue/etc. boxes)

• Containers for food products (oil, vinegar, condiments, etc.)

• Paper towel roll cores

• Detergent/fabric softener jugs

• Molded boxboard (take-out containers, egg cartons, etc.)

• Body care product containers

• Kraft paper (paper grocery bags, envelopes, etc.)

• Plastic take-away clamshells

• Multi layered paper bags (sugar, flour, etc.)

• Plastic cold drink cups

• Pizza boxes

• Plastic garden pots/trays

Nope.

• Plastic pails less than 25L

• Ribbons/bows

• Rigid plastic packaging • Margarine/yogurt/sour cream/ cottage cheese tubs

• Musical greeting cards

• Plastic jars (peanut butter, jam, vitamins, nuts, etc.)

• Wax coated cardboard boxes

• Single use coffee/tea pods (empty with lid removed)

• Foil gift wrap/bags

• Black bottom/clear top deli trays

• Foil/paper layered bags

• Aluminum cans/lids

• Plastic/paper layered bags

• Aluminum foil wrap/containers

• Paper towels/tissue/napkins

• Empty aerosol containers (not spray paint)

• Juice cartons and boxes return for refund

• Steel food cans/cookie tins

Nope.

GLASS CONTAINERS Accepted at RECYCLE BC DEPOTS ONLY.

YES.

• Clear glass containers • Coloured glass containers

• Plastic/foil blister packs

• Garden hoses

• Clear glass bottles

• Plastic paint containers

• Coloured glass bottles

• Pails larger than 25L

Nope.

• Deposit glass (return for refund) • Drinking glasses or dishes

• Aluminum drink containers return for refund • Spray paint cans • Propane cylinders

• Cookware

• Foil lined cardboard containers

• Window glass

learn more

• Plastic wrap

• Biodegradable/compostible packaging

• Glass soap packaging

• Light bulbs

• Motor oil, vehicle lubricant or antifreeze containers

• Lawn edging or tarps

• Glass food packaging

• Ceramic products

)

• Microwavable containers

• Hardcover or paperback books (donate ‘em)

• Mirrors

& carton

• Coat hangers

Make sure to give your dirty recyclables a rinse before you recycle them.

engage.rdek.bc.ca/recycle

• Paint cans • Metal hardware or scrap metal

October 19, 2023

The Columbia Valley Pioneer

Recycle BC Depots

Yellow Bins

Fernie, Cranbrook & Kimberley Curbside

Invermere Curbside

The Recycle BC system is the BEST option when it comes to residential packaging and paper product recycling.

Recycle BC Depots (located at all RDEK Transfer Stations) offer the greatest opportunity for keeping products out of the trash. The Recycle BC system is funded by producers that supply packaging and paper products to BC residents and the RDEK is PAID per tonne of materials collected. So, you can recycle more and it costs less to operate - it’s a win, win! Please use Recycle BC as much as possible for your residential recycling.

h

The Fernie, Cranbrook and Kimberley curbside programs are also part of the Recycle BC program however, due to the nature of the collection, not all products can be placed in the curbside bins. Plastic bags, flexible packaging, glass and styrofoam must be taken to a Recycle BC Depot. So to reduce household waste, please set these items aside and make a quick trip to a transfer station every so often.

The Yellow Bin Program used to be the only option for recycilng, but has been largely replaced by Recycle BC and is now intended primarly for businesses, institutions and the rural areas of our region that don’t have nearby access to Recycle BC Depots. The yellow bins accepted a limited variety of products and are TOTALLY separate from Recycle BC. The Yellow Bin Program is funded by taxpayers and because the RDEK has to PAY for every tonne of material collected, is extremely costly. The more we can divert to the Recycle BC program, the better it is for all.

The Invermere curbside program collects the same materials as the Yellow Bin Program, but gives the convenience of curbside pick-up. In order to reduce the amount of waste generated in your home we encourage you to set aside products that are not accepted in the curbside program but that CAN be recycled at the Invermere Recycle BC depot and drop them at the Transfer Station in the Industrial Park when you have time.

Thanks for doing your part to keep our region moving forward.

FLEXIBLE PLASTICS YES.

WHITE STYROFOAM YES.

Accepted at RECYCLE BC DEPOTS ONLY.

• Grocery bags

• White foam meat trays

• Bread bags

• White foam produce trays

• Squishy foam packaging

• White un-printed foam cups

• Bulk food bags

• White foam packaging

• Water softener salt bags

• White un-printed foam take-out containers

• Driveway salt bags/garden soil/manure bags

• White un-printed foam disposable bowls/plates

• Mattress overwrap

Nope.

• Frozen food bags

• Foam insulation

• Outer wrap for paper towels/toilet paper

• Absorbing pads used in meat trays

• Zippered pouches

• Packing peanuts/chips

• Deli meat packaging • Stand-up pouches • Potato chip bags/candy bar wrappers • Cheese slice wrappers • Net bags (avocados, onions, etc.)

• Cereal bags/pasta bags • Plastic padded mailers/bubble wrap/air packets

• Labels/tape on foam packaging • Squishy/flexible foam • Furniture/mattress foam

COLOURED/PRINTED STYROFOAM YES.

Accepted at RECYCLE BC DEPOTS ONLY.

• Woven plastic bags (rice, etc.)

• Foam meat trays

• Pet food bags

• Foam produce trays

• Baby food pouches

• Foam egg cartons

• Shrink wrap

• Coloured foam packaging

• Transparent recycling bags

• Printed foam cups

• Plastic drop sheets

• Printed foam take-out containers

Nope.

• Printed/coloured foam disposable bowls/plates

• Plastic lined paper (laminated)

• Packing peanuts/chips

• Plastic strapping

• Labels/tape on foam packaging

• Stretch wrap/cling wrap

• Squishy/flexible foam

• 6-pack rings

• Furniture/mattress foam

• Biodegradable plastic

• Absorbing pads used in meat trays

• Plastic squeeze tubes

Nope.

• Foam insulation

• PVC/vinyl

A place for everything & everything in its place.

The way that products are collected and sorted matters. The products that are collected in the yellow bins and Invermere curbside program are taken to a sorting facility where they are manually sorted, separated, baled and sent to market. The products that are collected in the big green Container and Paper/Cardboard bins at the Recycle BC Depot in the Invermere Industrial Park are manually sorted and baled before being shipped to Recycle BC recyclers. Flexible plastics, glass and styrofoam are collected in big white tote bags at the Recycle BC Depot. These totes are loaded directly onto trucks and are shipped straight to designated Recycle BC recycling facilities. This is why there are separate areas for some materials and why others (like containers) are co-mingled.

You’ve got options.

13

A14

The Columbia Valley Pioneer

October 19, 2023

Famous art show calls Windermere man

Continued from page 8 “I can easily lose a whole Saturday. I will go in the morning and start (drawing), and then next thing I know one of the kids is walking in telling me it’s suppertime, and I will reply ‘wait, what – suppertime?” he said. “I guess you know you’ve found your calling, when it’s so absorbing that you miss a whole day without noticing.”

McGarva travelled to Siena a week before the Cavalli d’Autore’s opening day (Friday, Oct. 5) to get prepared and he will be there until even after the show ends on Monday, Oct. 30. The Pioneer spoke with him the day after the grand opening and he was in a buoyant mood.

“It’s been fantastic,” he said.

The opening gala was an event “true to form of the Italian way of life. A party just like you’d expect Siena to have,” complete with large crowds and local celebrities, explained McGarva. “There are some really heavy hitter artists here. I just feel honoured to be among them.”

But the best part so far for McGarva has been having local Tuscan school kids come visit the Santa Maria della Scala museum to see the show. He has been giving talks to the kids, with the aim of getting them interested in art and in horses (animal welfare).

“It’s been really fun, it’s a way of giving back and I love it,” he said.

McGarva’s road from Windermere to the Tuscany art show has been anything but straightforward. But a winding route is perhaps not surprising, given that he has always followed his heart.

After graduating from DTSS in 1983, McGarva spent three years in Southeast Asia working and volunteering in refugee camps, first on the three-way Laos-Cambodia-Thailand border and then in a massive garbage dump in metro Manila in the Philippines. The dump site was home to kids who had lost their parents and were living on the streets and in the dump, in informal street gangs.

“Those kids were tough but welcoming. They were usually apprehensive about grown-ups, but when I turned up, I had a skateboard and a guitar — I was sort of a big kid myself, so they welcomed me right in,” said McGarva.

He also spent time in Singapore (in a hospital, recovering from malaria), China, Malaysia and Indonesia. Eventually he returned to the Columbia Valley, where he stayed several years working as a mechanic.But he grew restless again, and headed south to California, which has always held a special meaning for McGarva. When he was still young, his father passed away.

His grandparents bought McGarva, his mom and McGarva’s two brothers tickets to California — part of a way to help the family heal.

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McGarva has a fascination with horses, seen here in this unique stippling art medium.

Photo submitted “Even at the time, I remember thinking, I’ll come live here one day,” said McGarva. “So many years later, that’s what I did. I didn’t have much with me, and I crossed the border without a green card, but somehow I made it work.”

In southern California, McGarva carved out an existence cobbled together from cash-in-hand employment. He worked odd jobs (“anything I could to make ends meet,” he said), before getting a steady mechanic gig in an auto shop.

He got into rock climbing as well as paragliding and hang gliding and became an instructor in both those pursuits. And on the side, he dabbled in art.

“I was working in the car shop during the day, and the owner let me do sculpture in the back of the shop in the evening.

It was actually a pretty great life — fixing cars during the day, doing sculpture at night, then climbing and flying on the weekends,” he said.

It was while instructing rock climbing that he met Pamela one day in 1994.

“I was teaching, she was paying,” said McGarva. As he was walking the group out to the rock climbing site, he could feel the person behind walking too close to him (“tailgating” as McGarva put it).

“I turned around to say something and in doing that, I accidentally clocked her,” he remembered. “Of course, I felt awful so I went to help her up. I pulled down my sunglasses, and as I did, we locked eyes, and, well, that was happily ever after.”

Smitten as he was, McGarva couldn’t bring himself to ask Pamela out. “I was way too shy for that. I was a non-dater. So,

of course she was the one that had to ask me on the first date,” he explained.

They were married in 1995.

Pamela is involved in cancer research and the biotech industry, and her work took the couple all over the world – from California to Bavaria, to Italy, to Boston, to Rhode Island, and eventually back to California. Along the way Pamela convinced McGarva to return to school and finally get an art degree.

“I think our marriage works because we are both willing to take on new adventures,” said McGarva. The couple had kids later in life, when McGarva was already well into his mid 40s, and he was happy to become a stay-at-home dad. Their elder daughter Frejya is 14, three years older than Ella, and McGarva said he is constantly amazed by what he learns from his children.

He also gave credit to many different valley residents for helping him on his life’s path, specifically mentioning former Akisqnuk First Nation chief Alfred Joseph, who taught McGarva how to lead trail rides and handle horses.

“I never did drugs and I’m not a drinker or big partier. Working with horses kept me out of trouble. It was huge,” said McGarva. He also referred to the Bavin family. “They were a great influence, both artistically and in terms of getting me into outdoor sports. I still remember John Bavin teaching me to roll a kayak,” he said.

McGarva noted that he is “forever indebted” to the influence of the Columbia Valley.

October 19, 2023

The Columbia Valley Pioneer

15

Wrongful convictions concern vice-chief

By Julia Magsombol Local Journalism Initiative julia@columbiavalleypioneer.com Kim Beaudin, the national vice-chief of the Congress of Aboriginal Peoples (CAP), has some strong convictions about Wrongful Conviction Day that took place on October 2.

“I think people should read, reflect, and ask themselves, if this is the kind of justice system that Canadians want, where we’re putting innocent people in prisons and jails across Canada,” he said.

CAP released a press release on Wrongful Conviction Day, an annual event, insisting the Government of Canada and Minister of Justice, Arif Virani take action and address the high number of Indigenous Peoples who are or were wrongfully convicted and have spent years in prisons.

“I don’t trust Canada’s justice system at all. It’s not fair. It doesn’t treat people equally. It will probably take centuries before it ever does,” said Beaudin.

Based on the Aboriginal Peoples Television Network (APTN) news, the Canadian registry “identifies 83 wrongful convictions, 16 of which represent Indigenous Peoples.” Read more: https://www.aptnnews.ca/national-news/wrongful-convictions-registry-indigenous-peoples-pris-

on-innocence/#:~:text=The%20team%20 said%20it%20took,of%20which%20 represent%20Indigenous%20Peoples.

But Beaudin argues that these numbers are higher.

“If you have a 32 per cent federal population right now, who make up Indigenous inmates overall, then 32 per cent are federally incarcerated,” he noted.

“I believe some of them are innocent, but they’re in prison. Up to 85 per cent of our provincial jails across Canada are Indigenous People.”

Beaudin believes the situation has a lot to do with signed treaties with the Crown hundreds of years ago. 1871 was the first treaty.

“They’re not honouring those treaties, and they never really honoured them.

Most of our leaders and chiefs are in prisons and are on reserves.”

He also explained there are always legal proceedings throughout the courts, but from what he experienced and learned, the government did not want Indigenous Peoples to be part of the settler community. And the only way they could maintain this was to put most of them in jail and on reserves. “[It seems they] don’t want you to know anything. If you come off that reserve, they will starve you out. If you’re on reserve you are not allowed to do any-

thing. You can’t have economic development, nothing on it. And that’s how they wanted to eradicate every Indigenous person in Canada. As you know, genocide one-on-one,” he added.

Beaudin said that many Indigenous People are stuck in the justice system and they take pleas. They believe that the system is stacked against them. And so, they no longer see any chance of fighting against the government when they know they will lose anyway. “[Defence lawyers] rarely ask the Indigenous Peoples if they are innocent or if they want to fight for their innocence.

They always cut them a deal with the Crown and prosecutions,” he explained.

Under Section 718.2 of the Criminal Code, a Gladue report is a pre-sentencing and bail hearing report that an Indigenous offender can have when a Canadian court sentences them, only if the judge formally requests and orders the report. It takes into account the racism and discrimination that Indigenous Peoples face, and their background involving substance use, health issues and abuse.

“Gladue reports take prominence, but in Saskatchewan, the government will not put any money towards it. They rarely put any …. I don’t think they budget it, because they don’t care,” Beaudin said.

He pointed out that the Gladue re-

Ktunaxa language being preserved

By Julia Magsombol Local Journalism Initiative julia@columbiavalleypioneer.com The Ktunaxa Literacy Day is on October 24 — a day to celebrate and give importance to one of the world's most unique and isolated languages.

"To be able to carry something that was lost in my family two generations ago, to be able to stand with others that speak it, and to be able to carry our words forward means everything to me. It's a way to give back to my grandmothers and grandfathers who are no longer here,” said Mara Nelson, a Traditional Knowledge and Language Support worker from Ktunaxa Nation.

Nelson has been learning the Ktunaxa language for the past three years with Nukin’ka ?akc’ika?is and Alfred Joseph, the Lower Mainland Ktunaxa Language Learners and Vi Birdstone and Leanna Gravelle-Twigg a respected mentor from the Ktunaxa Nation.

Learning the language has affected her identity and everything she has been doing now. "This is significant and it is empowering. It enables me to be stronger

in who I am; it brings back a family connection to not just me but many other family members. It helps us recognize our future, while cherishing and honouring our family's history,” Nelson said. "And it's something that I will continue doing for the rest of my life.”

It is thought that only 215 people in Canada fluently spoke the language. But Nelson is uncertain as to how many.

Mara helps facilitate a Ktunaxa language course with Joseph every Monday night, where the class is filled with hopeful people willing to learn the language.

Learning any language is quite difficult, but since this language is part of her identity, Nelson pulls from her history and that helps ease the learning curveballs.

"I have a drive and a desire because it is part of my being. It is part of my DNA, part of me becoming a whole person. So it's not that it's not difficult," she added.

“Its just something I enjoy more than the struggle! I enjoy working in the schools and sharing my teachings . . . there is jubilation in having elementary students share the language with their peers. Those have been my most cherished moments.”

Continued on page 24

port did not take effect with the case of the Quewezance sisters. Nerissa Quewezance and her sister Odelia Quewezance spent went almost 30 years in prison for what they describe as a wrongful conviction.

They were wrongfully convicted of a second-degree murder and were sentenced to life in prison in 1994 for the death of Kamsack farmer Anthony Joseph Dolff.

“I believe that there is hope for them.

A lot of their time was wasted in prison,” Beaudin lamented.

The Quewezance sisters were conditionally released from custody in March of this year. They applied for a judicial review and hoped to determine a miscarriage of justice in their case.

For more information: https:// www.cbc.ca/news/canada/saskatchewan/quewezance-sisters-bail-decision-1.6790372 “[Wrongful Conviction Day] is important, and I hope that we can let more Canadians know about it. Many Indigenous people in our prison system shouldn’t even be there,” Beaudin said.

CAP and Beaudin will continue to help and support Indigenous Peoples who were wrongfully convicted and imprisoned.

“Don’t give up. Keep up the fight.

Reach out to people who can help you.

Fight back if you can,” Beaudin advises.

DISTRICT OF INVERMERE

914 – 8th Avenue, PO Box 339 Invermere, BC V0A 1K0 Tel: 250-342-9281 • Fax: 250-342-2934

PUBLIC SURVEY regarding proposals to regulate

Short-Term Rental Accommodation Units (STRs) The District of Invermere is seeking public input on proposed Short-Term Rental Accommodation Unit (STR) regulations, and other updates to the District of Invermere’s Business Licencing Bylaw. The District of Invermere has posted a public survey regarding these proposals on the municipal website in the “What’s New” section: https://invermere.net/news/ Paper copies of the survey are available at the District’s Municipal Office located at 914 - 8th Avenue, Invermere, BC between 8:30 am and 4:30 pm Monday through Friday.

Survey responses can be submitted either on-line or on paper until 4:00 pm, Friday, October 27, 2023.

Background information regarding the proposed STR regulations and updates to the District’s Business Licencing Bylaw can be found on the municipal website: www.invermere.net . Alternatively, information about the proposals can be obtained by contacting the District of Invermere Municipal Office using the following contact information: email: info@invermere.net Telephone: 250-342-9281 FAX: 250-342-2934 Rory Hromadnik

Andrew Young, MCIP, RPP

District of Invermere Email: planning@invermere.net Telephone: 250-342-9281 ext 1235

District of Invermere Email: cao@invermere.net Telephone: 250-342-9281 ext 1225

Director of Development Services

Chief Administrative Officer

16

The Columbia Valley Pioneer

SPORTS

October 19, 2023

Young runners compete against the clock

Seventeen young athletes from Windermere Elementary, J.A. Laird Elementary, and DTSS competed in a cross-country running race in Fernie last week.

Photos by Christine DuBois

The runners were trying to best their previous times, so it was all about competing against the clock.

October 19, 2023

BEY

The Columbia Valley Pioneer

ND

THE BLUE LINE

By Stephanie Stevens National Hockey League player (and second all-time NHL defencemen in goals, assists, and points) Paul Coffey once said, “You work hard to get good and then work to get better.”

That is the mindset Columbia Valley Rockies’ head coach and general manager Tyler Sincennes and his coaching team are working to instill in the 2023/24 team. And it shows.

While the weekend of Oct. 6 and 7 was a win and a loss, there were still gains, especially in the team’s specialty plays.

“The team took a step in the right direction and I was happy with both of our games,” said Sincennes. “The penalty kill is going much better and our power play showed signs of improvement as well.”

While the Oct. 6 3-0 loss to the Revelstoke Grizzlies was disappointing, Sincennes said the Grizzlies are a good team and the Rockies were right with them.

“We missed a couple of really good chances to score and make it a game. On Saturday (vs the Golden Rockets) those chances went in and we played really well in a 5-2 win. We heavily outshot Golden.”

Scoring against the Rockets Oct. 7 was #5, Govind Dhillon (assists from #18 Maxence Guay and #12 Kaelen Shelton) and #14 Tysin Mulligan (assists from #24 Luke Hamilton and #22 Kobe Mason) in the first period.

The second period saw scoring from

#4 Theo Fath (assists from Dhillon and Hamilton) and Guay (assists from #26 Justin King) and then one more in the third period from Shelton (assisted by #17 Ben Sharp).

Last Friday, Oct 13 the Rockies hosted the Kimberley Dynamiters in the Eddie Mountain Memorial Arena and sent the Dynamiters packing with a 3-0 win for the hometown boys.

Shelton opened up the scoring in the second period (assists from Mulligan and Sharp), followed by Velker unassisted with an empty netter, and the third saw one more unassisted goal by #16 Gage Sather.

“I thought we defended fairly well in the Kimberley game,” said Sincennes.

“They had a lot of shots but a lot were from the outside. When they did have chances our goaltender (#30) Nate Glenn made some big saves.”

Sincennes added, “In Creston, we didn’t have our best game, but we still managed to find a way to win which is good to see. Anytime you get four division points in a weekend you are happy.”

Bringing in the win in Creston was #10 Oleg Bitus (assists from #13 Josh David and #11 Wyatt Wurtz) in the first and Mulligan (assist from Sather) in the third.

The Rockies are back home next weekend with the Grand Forks Border Bruins in the hometown barn on Friday, Oct. 20 and the Summerland Steam coming in Saturday, Oct. 21.

The Columbia Valley Rockies sent the Kimberley Dynamiters packing with a 3-0 win at Eddie Mountain Memorial Arena on Oct. 13.

Photo by Stephanie Stevens

17

Volunteer gardeners recognized for work

By Darla Spiry During the summer months, our village (Columbia Garden) has been fortunate to have a wonderful volunteer Gardener: Lila Fodchuk.

Lila and her student helper, Cora Fitzpatrick, have kept our Ivy House gardens and seating areas beautiful, clean of debris, and with vibrant colours throughout the summer. This was no small task for a retired woman who hauled water daily out to the gardens.

These two dedicated volunteers swept the areas daily, provided planters for the

placement of debris, and were present every day to water the beautiful flowers, plants, and herbs.

Lila has been collecting the flower seeds for next year's plantings, and seeds from sunflowers (as shown) for arts and crafts in the winter.

Our Ivy House is very appreciative of Lila and Cora, and each has been provided a small token of our appreciation for their efforts throughout the entire summer.

We wish them both a healthy and warm winter, and we hope they will return to volunteer with our Ivy House again in the summer of 2024.

Lila Fodchuk (left) with her prize sunflowers is shown here with Darla Spiry.

Photo submitted

18

The Columbia Valley Pioneer

October 19, 2023

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Name/logo contest now on Submitted by Windermere Valley Minor Hockey Association Windermere Valley Minor Hockey Association invites all current members and alumni to help name and design a logo to help brand and advertise their home tournaments.

The idea, presented by board member Aldene Atkinson, intends to create an event that other teams recognize and seek out to attend.

“The idea behind the contest is to find a name and image that sticks with people. We want hockey players to wear our merchandise and come back to Invermere again

and again for our events,” says Atkinson.

The Tournament Naming Committee for the WVMHA hopes to find a design and name that becomes as familiar as Columbia Valley Soccer Club’s ‘Clash of the Titans.’

The contest has already been advertised to Windermere Valley Minor Hockey Association members and submissions will be collected until October 27.

The winner of the contest will receive recognition and the first official printed hoodie with their tournament logo and name. Submissions can be emailed to tournaments.wvmha@gmail.com.

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October 19, 2023

The Columbia Valley Pioneer

19

HERE TO SERVE YOU SERVICES

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The beauty of fall is shown here at the south end of Whiteswan Lake below the Sharktooth range.

Photo by Syd Danis

Library brimming with fall programming

This week’s column was written by Blair McFarlane, community outreach programmer for the Invermere Public Library, which is located at 201 7th Avenue. Visit their website or call 250-342-6416 for more information.

You really “autumn” know about all the great programs we have at the library this fall. Read on to see what is upcoming –there is something for all ages.

Two storytimes a week: Fridays and Saturdays at 10:30 a.m. With different books and facilitators at each session, you can come to one or both. Geared towards ages 2-5 but all welcome. Dallas is back for Saturday Storytime and we couldn’t be happier!

Lego Club: Drop in on Saturday mornings from 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. for Lego and Duplo fun! A good chance to

spend some quality family time in play.

Buddy Reading: Saturdays between 2-4 p.m. Book a 30-minute session to read with a librarian. Build skill, confidence and a love of reading.

After School Club: Wednesdays from 3 to 4:30 p.m. Come colour, bead or play with LEGO. This is intended as a chill transition time between school and home or extracurriculars. Open to all school aged kids (drop-off only allowed for Grade 2 and up). Find the registration on our website.

Homeschool Meetup: Homeschool Meetup happens on Tuesday mornings from 10:30 to 11:30 a.m. All ages of homeschoolers are welcome to join us for open-ended games, art projects, STEAM play and more. This year we will also be running two Homeschool-plus sessions a month. This is our extended program where we will do some more indepth projects geared at specific age groups. Oct. 31 from 11:45 a.m. to 12:45 p.m. will be a book club discussion on We’re Not From Here by Geoff Rodkey.

Craft Connections Club: Our next craft night for adults is on November 22

at 6 p.m. We’ll be making some fun and adorable (find specifics on our website soon). We are also having our Christmas Craft Night on December 6 at 6 p.m. with a few different craft stations set up.

Registration is required for these events and will open in November.

Write on! Writer’s Group: Come learn how to write family stories at this month’s meeting on Oct. 25 at 6 p.m.

Our writing group is for all writing abilities and experience levels. The first half of our meetings will be a “how to” portion, or mini lesson on a certain style/genre/etc. of writing. The second half of our meetings will be for project sharing and getting feedback on your work.

Novel Idea Book Club: This month’s Novel Idea pick is The Little Paris Bookshop by Nina George. Meeting on Oct. 31 at 2 p.m. Copies of the book are available at the front desk.

Screening with Wildsight: On November 8 at 7:30 p.m. join Wildsight at the library for a screening of a Zoom conversation with John Vaillant, author of Fire Weather: The Making of a Beast and Fatima Syed, climate reporter at The Nar-

whal.

Fire has changed communities across B.C. this year. After the most devastating wildfire season in recorded history, many are wondering how these fires got so big, what we can learn from our current responses, and whether we are prepared for an ever warming future. All are welcome.

FireSmart Info Session: Carey Collin from FireSmart Invermere will be hosting three information sessions in November to chat about wildfire readiness and the Community Wildfire Resiliency Plan (in progress). Drop-in to one of the three sessions on: Nov. 14 from 12 to 3 p.m., Nov. 15 from 5 to 8 p.m., or Nov 16 from 12 to 3 p.m.

Needles & Hooks: Join other yarn enthusiasts and share tips and tricks at our bi-monthly Needles & Hooks group.

Meetings every 1st and 3rd Thursdays of the month at 2 p.m. Oct. 19th and Nov. 2nd are the upcoming days.

Senior’s Tea: Come for a cup of tea and lively conversation at 2 p.m. on the 2nd and 4th Thursdays of the month.

Oct. 26 and Nov. 9th are the upcoming days.

20

The Columbia Valley Pioneer

P IONEER C LASSIFIEDS ANNOUNCEMENT

ATTENTION

ASPIRING MUSICIANS

from Parson to Canal Flats Applications are open for the Carol Wilkie Memorial Steamboat Mountain Music Bursary Musicians of all levels and any age may apply.

Funds may be used for: workshops, music camps, lessons, master classes, college, or university music programs.

Deadline: November 15 Download application: www.steamboatmtnmusicfest.ca

• Phone: 250-341-6299 • Email: info@columbiavalleypioneer.com • Web: www.columbiavalleypioneer.com

CHEERS WITHOUT TEARS

A loving CHEERS to Heart and Narcotics Anonymous Soul Medicine Horses and the Open Meeting Dora Porcina Memorial Parade.

Mondays 7 p.m. at the A big cheers from Ivy House and BC Service Building, South End. Columbia Garden Village 624-4th St. Invermere.

Residents and families. A cheers Alcoholics Anonymous. If alcohol is causing problems or con ict 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 Service Building, South End – 624 4th St., Invermere. Please call 250342-2424 for more information or to speak with someone from our fellowship.

Al-Anon. Are you concerned about or affected by someone else’s drinking? Meeting Mondays 7:15 pm. at Canadian Martyrs Parish front side door.

712 12 Ave. Invermere. For more information or to speak with someone from our fellowship, please call 250-8782448 or 250-342-8392.

October 19, 2023

HELP WANTED

Robert Paul Pritchard December 26, 1955 – October 10, 2023

to the organizers of the event for their donation for our Recreation Programs. The memories for our folks, priceless.

Cheers to Della's Esthetics for the great job on my brows!

Cheers to Randy at McDonald’s for the great customer service!!

Cheers to the all the Athalmer Transfer Station workers. The ladies are always kind and helpful, and keep the grounds clean. Makes a trip to the station rewarding knowing our trash is being disposed in the best possible way.

BUSINESS SERVICES B.B.'s Home & Design Services Renovations, Masonry & Handyman Services, Blinds, Housechecks, eavestrough/ yard cleaning/dump runs 250-688-2897 THE HEARTFELT COMPANION: Services for Seniors Since 2014 we've provided kind and compassionate non-medical care, transportation to Cranbrook, overnight care, meal prep, grocery shopping and more.

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It is with peace and contentment that we share with you the news of Paul Pritchard’s passing on October 10th, 2023, surrounded by his loved ones in Invermere, B.C. As he faced his biggest mountain yet, Paul chose to see it as a new adventure and climbed upward and onward one step at a time.

There will be no service in honor of Paul’s wishes. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that you make a donation to the Summit Trail Makers Society.

Our desire is to have a permanent bench in honor of Paul, so there is a place for those to go and remember him as they stop and pause along the way on one of his favorite trails, Assiniboine Lake. Please remember to send a note along with your donation so it is known that it is specifically for Paul’s bench.

Or, alternatively you could roll up your sleeves and donate your blood to the Canadian Blood Services or offer a monetary contribution to any good cause you believe in as Paul always valued giving.

If you would like to leave your favorite story of Paul or a note for our families please follow this link: https://memoriesofpaulpritchard.fromabirdie. com/contribute. It brings us joy hearing all the stories about Pauly P and we hope to keep them alive for years to come.

To read the full obituary for Paul, please visit his memorial page on the McPherson Funeral Services website.

250-342-6919

SNOW?!

Who’s thinking about snow?

We are, and we’re looking for people to add to our team!

Are you retired, but looking to keep busy while earning some extra income? A student who wants to work a couple of hours before school? A seasonal worker looking for something to do in the cold months? This is a great way to earn some extra money!

Whether you’re available for full shifts or just a few hours in the morning, whether you’re an old pro in a skid steer or prefer a shovel, we offer a variety of opportunities!

If you appreciate working with good equipment, an organized company, and other hardworking individuals, this is the opportunity for you!

Because it’s weather dependent, the hours in snow and ice management can be hit or miss. You must be available and committed to work on an on-call basis. To be a good fit for this position you must be reliable, punctual, and hard working.

We expect the best from our crew, so we pay them $25-$30 (depending on position and experience) from day one!

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

Shuswap Band is looking to hire for our newly posted EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR position!

Recycling questions?

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

Come join our dynamic team and enjoy a flexible work environment, health & wellness benefits, an employer-matched pension plan, 2 weeks off at Christmas plus 2 weeks vacation, a bi-weekly healthy food box, and more!tion, a bi-weekly healthy food box, and more!

Visit our website at: www.shuswapband.net/employment-opportunities/

or email: RECYCLING COUNCIL OF B.C. MEMBER

HR@shuswapband.ca for more information.

PLEASE RECYCLE THIS NEWSPAPER

October 19, 2023

The Columbia Valley Pioneer

HELP WANTED

HELP WANTED

DISTRICT OF INVERMERE

914 – 8th Avenue, PO Box 339 Invermere, BC V0A 1K0 Tel: (250) 342-9281 • Fax: (250) 342-2934

EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY RECEPTION/CASHIER CLERK PERMANENT FULL-TIME The District of Invermere has an opening for a Reception/Cashier Clerk position in its Administration and Finance Department.

Reporting to the Chief Administrative Officer, the Reception/Cashier Clerk position performs a variety of routine and non-routine clerical tasks, word processing, spread sheeting, record keeping, cashiering, facility booking, photocopying, and other duties as assigned. The Reception/Cashier Clerk position possesses a sound knowledge of specific department procedures and municipal bylaws and regulations.

Under supervision, the Reception/Cashier Clerk position is required to exercise some independent judgment and action within the limits of departmental systems and procedures. The Reception/Cashier Clerk position must deal courteously and effectively with the public and municipal clients. Performance will be reviewed for completeness and accuracy of work undertaken and assigned, as well as adherence with the District’s procedural guidelines.

The preferred candidate for this position will have completed a business college or secretarial program with extensive computer training. Municipal work experience would be an asset. Applicants interested in applying for this position must possess the following skills and abilities: • Completion of Grade 12 (Senior Secondary School Graduation); • Completion of a minimum of a six (6) month office administration training program; • Proficient word processing skills and a minimum net keyboarding speed of 50 to 80 words per minute; • Working knowledge of and experience using standardized business letter formats in English, as well as record management systems; and • Knowledge and proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite (i.e., Word, Outlook, Excel, Power Point, and Access) as well as Adobe software.

The selected candidate will be expected to: • Maintain accurate, dependable, high-quality work; • Communicate effectively (i.e., orally and in writing); • Possess good organizational skills; • Possess excellent interpersonal skills; and • Maintain harmonious relationships with the public and staff.

This position is within C.U.P.E. 2982 bargaining unit. The current wage rate for this position falls within the range of $32.05 - $32.97 per hour plus benefits as detailed in the Collective Agreement. The Reception/Cashier Clerk position is expected to work 35 hours per week Monday to Friday from 8:30 am to 4:30 pm.

A job description for this position is available but is currently under review.

Persons interested in applying for this position are invited to submit their resumes by 2:00 pm on Monday, November 6th, 2023 to:

District of Invermere Attn: Kindry Luyendyk, Corporate Officer Box 339, Invermere, BC, V0A 1K0 Email: corporateservices@invermere.net

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

SEXUAL ASSAULT CLINICAL COUNSELLOR Union Classification: Clinical Counsellor, Grid Level 16P Permanent Part-Time Position Hours: 14 hours per week Salary: $41.78 per hour Shift Schedule: Monday to Friday 8:30am to 4:30pm Job Summary Provides accessible and inclusive clinical counselling to persons of any age who are survivors of sexual assault, including historical sexual assault, after assessing client’s social, psychological, emotional and/or behavioral issues and by developing therapeutic programs and interventions. These services will ensure the personal and physical safety of clients and the counsellor.

Key Duties and Responsibilities: 1 Identifies, assesses, and monitors client’s needs in conjunction with caregivers and/or other service providers.

2. Develops and implements short-term therapeutic counselling plans necessary to meet client goals and objectives. Provides individual and group counselling interventions using therapeutic techniques depending on client need.

3. Will collaborate with clients to identify the circumstances that have led the client to seek or be referred for counselling.

4. Maintains knowledge of community resources, and in agreement with the client, provides resources and appropriate referrals to meet their needs, with respect of Indigenous cultural and healing practices. When appropriate referrals to other local service providers including, the safe homes and transition house, victim services, alcohol and drug programs and mental health services will be undertaken.

5. Performs other related duties as required.

A more detailed job description is available upon request.

Accountability The Family & Individual Counsellor is accountable to the Director of Program Management and/or Executive Director. Clinical supervision is provided by Family Dynamix. The counsellor is responsible to read and follow the employment policies and procedures of Family Dynamix Association.

Qualifications Master’s Degree in Counselling Psychology or a related field.

A. Registered membership in one of the following professional associations is a minimum requirement: I. Canadian Counselling and Psychotherapy Association II. BC Association of Clinical Counsellors III. BC Psychological association; and, B. Experience or training in: I. Counselling survivors of Sexual Assault II. Trauma-informed Practice; and, III. Indigenous cultural safety Training and Experience: Two (2) years recent related experience. education, training, and experience.

In Loving Memory of Our Son

Of all the special gifts in life, however great or small To have you as my son was the greatest gift of all.

A special time, a special face, a special son I can’t replace.

With aching heart I whisper low, I miss you son and love you so.

-Love Mom, Dad, Cory, Jagar and Grandma Rose

Or an equivalent combination of

Application process and deadline: Submit a resume and cover letter to Cari Stewart, Director of Program Management, Family Dynamix Association at cstewart@fdx.family, or Box 2289, Invermere, BC., V0A 1K0 by Monday, October 30, 2023 at 4pm.

PS: We thank all applicants for their interest, however only those shortlisted for interview will be contacted.

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The Columbia Valley Pioneer

October 19, 2023

P O S I T I O N AVA I L A B L E

Heavy Duty Mechanic (On/Off Road) Baymag Inc., an industrial mineral company specializing in the production and international marketing of Magnesium Oxide, is accepting applications for a Heavy Duty Mechanic for its open pit mine located near Radium Hot Springs, BC. We believe people are at the heart of our company and the key to our future success. We’re growing and are always on the lookout for passionate people to join a hard-working team, make a difference and enjoy a healthy work/life balance.

As a certified Heavy Equipment Technician (HET) you will leverage your expertise to contribute to Baymag’s mine on Mt Brussilof, located near Radium Hot Springs, British Columbia. In collaboration with the mine team, you will be responsible for maintaining a safe, productive and efficient fleet. You will be joining an extremely talented team that will look to you for your technical competency, knowledge and business acumen. Regular working hours will be 8:00 – 16:00 Mon – Fri. Overtime will be required on an as-needed basis.

Responsibilities & Duties • Inspecting haul trucks, bulldozers, excavators, graders, and other heavy construction equipment for proper performance, and inspect equipment to detect faults and malfunctions • Diagnosing faults or malfunctions using computerized and other testing equipment to determine the extent of repair required • Adjust equipment and repair or replace defective parts, components or systems using hand and power tools • Testing repaired equipment for proper performance and to ensure that work meets manufacturers’ specifications • Clean, lubricate and perform other routine maintenance work on equipment • Service attachments and working tools such as blades, buckets & booms • Mentor apprentice mechanics Qualifications & Skills • Interprovincial Heavy Equipment Technician (HET) Certification • Safety conscious Baymag provides an excellent work environment, a competitive compensation plan and an attractive benefits package.

Please note that you must be able to commute to Mt. Brussilof located near Radium Hot Springs, BC. Job Types: Full-time, Permanent Ability to commute/relocate: • Radium Hot Springs, BC: reliably commute or plan to relocate before starting work (required) Experience: • Journeyperson - 3 years (preferred) • 3rd or 4th year apprentice may be considered Work Location: In person We believe that our people are at the heart of our company and the key to our future success. We’re growing and are always on the lookout for passionate people to join a hard-working team, make a difference and enjoy a healthy work/life balance.

Environmental Responsibility: We believe in minimizing our impact on the environment and we’re in business to help our customers do the same.

Committed to Safety: We adhere to the highest equipment and safety standards and work hard to maintain our positive safety culture Stability: We have been in operation since 1982 and growing every year. You can rest easy knowing that Baymag will be in business year after year.

Please send resumes to jobs@baymag.com Baymag thanks all applicants for their interest, however only those candidates under consideration will be contacted.

October 19, 2023

The Columbia Valley Pioneer

Supporting kids and families in your community!

Every dollar goes towards new books & supporting family literacy programs!

Make a difference:

• Buy the famous Blue Sky socks • Order your Rather Be Reading t-shirt • Make a donation

https://cbal.org/booksforkids/

Last year over 5,200

children, youth and adults attended family programs in the Basin & Boundary region!

Since 2001, the Columbia Basin Alliance for Literacy has been providing free community literacy programming.

Please help us raise funds for CBAL’s literacy programs for children and families in our community.

Every donation makes a difference! $50

$100

$500

Purchases new books to give away

Purchases supplies for take-home kits

Supports a 4-week literacy program

$1000 Supports an 8-week literacy program

CONTACT INFORMATION: GOLDEN: Kim Weatherall goldencoordinator@cbal.org 250-439-9665

ELK VALLEY: Chrisy Hill elkvalleycoordinator@cbal.org 250-946-7257

KIMBERLEY: Kayla Wilson kimberleycoordinator@cbal.org 250-687-4681

CRANBROOK: Alison Facey cranbrookcoordinator@cbal.org 250-420-7596

CRESTON: Gillian Wells crestoncoordinator@cbal.org 250-402-3534

WINDERMERE VALLEY: Misty Hawes wvcoordinator@cbal.org 250-409-4251

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The Columbia Valley Pioneer

October 19, 2023

FAITH

Columbia Valley

Churches

When women aren’t safe

By Brent Woodard Anglican/ United Church Years ago, I received material from the larger United Church that could be used in a worship service on the topic of women living with violence and abuse.

I used some of the material on the Sunday after Thanksgiving. The next week a woman with three children asked to speak to me about the violence and abuse she experienced from her male partner. It was a terrible situation. She was obviously suffering, feeling trapped, and not knowing who to talk with or what her options were. I was grateful that the church had equipped me to ‘break the silence,’ and that by doing so this woman had taken a step of reaching out.

I am grateful for the people in my life now who continue to make me aware of how important this issue is and of the fine resources that are available for women and for those who care about them.

I was struck last year when I heard on the news an RCMP officer in the Maritimes say, “the abuse of women in relationships has become epidemic here.” It’s a big problem. In 2018, 44 per cent of women in Canada who had ever been in an intimate partner relationship reported experiencing some kind of psychological, physical, or sexual abuse.

LAKE WINDERMERE ALLIANCE CHURCH

I find it helpful to learn that there are many different types of abuse. The obvious one is physical, but the less obvious ones can be more hurtful and crippling. Financial, psychological, verbal, sexual, spiritual, emotional, intellectual, social and using children and pets.

Often the man blames the woman for the abuse he dishes out. Often the man is experienced differently in public than he is experienced in private.

Often there is a cycle of behaviour, where the man is in a better mood and way of behaving for a while but then cycles into a lower mood and way of behaving. It often leaves the woman unsure and unsafe – walking on eggshells.

Most people do not go to church, but it is important that we in churches do not create an environment that supports abuse in relationships. We need to be educated about the many aspects of this matter.

I’m grateful to have been made aware of the book “When Love Hurts” by Jill Cory and Karen McAndless-Davis. It can be ordered through the library, a local bookstore or online.

I believe it could be a great relief for a woman in an abusive relationship to read. Of course, there are people in the community who are able to help.

Local support, resources and counselling can be accessed through Family Dynamix at 250-341-3963 (Call Monday-Thursday from 9 to 3:30). 1-800-200-3003 is a 24/7 line to call for emergency help in getting out and being safe.

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

Saving Ktunaxa language Continued from page 15 On Ktunaxa Literacy Day, Nelson encourages everyone to learn the Ktunaxa greeting and the Ktunaxa place names of the towns we live — in doing so we breathe the language to its lands while ensueing its reciprocal relationship continues in many ways.

"It will be spread from one end to the other. My great grandchildren will be speaking Ktunaxa. There'll be bookshelves full and we will have many songs being sung. We will see it on TV, in Ktunaxa made movies and in video games.

It will be living and breathing," Nelson said of the language’s future. ?akukin means to try or to attempt or do something in the Ktunaxa language. This is Nelson's favourite word this month.

"It's an easy word, but it has so much in it. If I weren't open to trying every day, I wouldn't be able to speak our language – for a small word, it is pretty mighty.”

Nelson said there is no word for endangered in Ktunaxa, and they “intend to keep it that way.”

People who are interested in learning about the language can contact Nelson at ktunaxalanguagelearner@ gmail.com

DON’T LOSE YOUR LOCAL NEWS lle lumbia Va 6 • The Co

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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

, August 10

2023

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

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