Columbia Valley Pioneer - November 9, 2023

Vol. 20/Issue 45

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The Columbia Valley

November 9, 2023

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November 9, 2023

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November 9, 2023

The Columbia Valley Pioneer

VALLEY NEWS

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Lakes, rivers, and shores closed in KNP

By Steve Hubrecht steve@columbiavalleypioneer.com All shorelines and waterbodies in Kootenay National Park are closed until March in an effort to stop the spread of a parasite that is deadly to fish.

The parasite — myxobolus cerebralis — causes whirling disease in salmon, trout and mountain whitefish.

Similar waterbody and shoreline closures are also in effect in Yoho National Park. The closures were announced last week, about a month after Parks Canada found the first suspected case of whirling disease in Emerald Lake in Yoho.

Parks Canada conducted tests after that first case and found more suspected cases of the disease in the Kicking Horse River, Wapta Lake, Finn Creek, Monarch Creek, and at the confluence of the Kootenay and Emerald Rivers, all in Yoho.

These are the first reported suspected cases of whirling disease anywhere in B.C. Parks Canada Lake Louise, Yoho and Kootenay field unit superintendent Francois Masse told media the closures are necessary because the mortality rate among fish that get the parasite is very high (up to 90 per cent), and because Yoho and Kootenay contain at-risk fish species that are vulnerable to whirling disease, such as the iconic Kokanee salmon and westslope cutthroat trout.

Parks Canada officials outlined that the parasite causing whirling disease is very difficult, if not impossible, to eradicate once it is present in an ecosystem.

Whirling disease typically affects

younger fish, making them “whirl” in corkscrewing circles when they try to swim (which is what gives the ailment its name). This makes it difficult for the fish to get food and to avoid getting eaten themselves.

Visitors not only need to stay out of waterbodies, they need to stay well back from them – no closer than three metres.

This means no hiking or walking along shorelines, and obviously no fishing, swimming, wading and or use of boats, paddleboards or other watercraft.

The only exceptions are: crossing a waterbody on a bridge or other part of an official trail, or fording a stream or river as part of an official trail; collecting treatable water for drinking; crossing a frozen waterbody or shoreline; and using the rental canoes at Emerald Lake in Yoho.

Whirling disease is spread through an ecosystem mainly by fish moving upstream or downstream, but can also easily be spread by humans, especially those recreating. In fact, Parks Canada officials suspect that recreational activities are likely what brought the parasite into B.C. They warned the public that transporting items such as fishing gear, paddleboards and kayaks from an area with whirling disease to one without comes with risk of introducing the disease.

The parasite can live in most forms of water and even in mud. It has been present in Alberta, including in the Bow Valley, which borders both Yoho National Park and Kootenay National Park, for several years.

Westslope cutthroat trout and Kokanee salmon are vulnerable to whirling disease, resulting in the closure of shorelines and waterbodies in Kootenay National Park.

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The Columbia Valley

November 9, 2023

SERVING THE COLUMBIA VALLEY ONLINE OR IN PRINT

This past week, October 30 to November 6, the Columbia Valley RCMP responded to 49 calls for service.

The following is a summary of some of the files our officers responded to: This week has seen a slowdown in our calls for service as the shoulder season in the valley is upon us. Halloween saw lots of ghosts and goblins wandering the streets; however, everyone was behaving themselves and fun and candy was had by all.

Some of the ghosts and goblins may have even received some candy from one of our RCMP members on duty that night.

On Saturday, Nov. 4, a few off-duty RCMP members attended the 50th annual Firefighter’s Ball at the Columbia Valley Centre. It was a great event with good food and lots of items available to be won and bid on. Congratula-

tions to those firefighters that received awards.

Our members are very appreciative of the invaluable skills our fellow first responders in the community bring to calls for service.

This coming Saturday is Remembrance Day. This past year was an unprecedented year in Canadian policing.

Along with remembering our fallen military brothers and sisters, we remember the eight police officers in Canada who have died in the line of duty since last Remembrance Day: Cst. Gregorz Pierzchala, Ontario Provincial Police - Dec 27, 2022; Cst. Travis Jordan and Cst. Brett Ryan, Edmonton Police Service – March 16, 2023; Sgt. Maureen Breau, Surete Du Quebec – March 27, 2023; Cst. Harvinder Singh Dhami, Strathcona County RCMP – April 10, 2023; Sgt. Eric Mueller, Ontario Provincial Police – May 11, 2023; Det-Cst. Steven Tourangeau, Ontario Provincial Police – May 29, 2023; Cst. Rick O’Brien, Ridge Meadows RCMP – September 22, 2023.

Call Jamie at 250-341-6299 ext 103 to discuss your advertising needs.

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Cadets have been out in full force in Radium Hot Springs during the annual Remembrance Day poppy drive campaign.

Photo by Ryan Watmough

November 9, 2023

The Columbia Valley Pioneer

The Columbia Valley

PIONEER NEWSPAPER

Norm Julien from Edgewater has been chosen volunteer of the year for Area G. He is seen here with RDEK director Roberta Schnider, who presented him with a gift recently. Julien has been giving back to the community for decades.

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Norm Julien named VOTY

By Steve Hubrecht steve@columbiavalleypioneer.com Edgewater resident Norm Julien has been quietly lending a helping hand whenever, wherever and however it’s needed around his community for decades. Those efforts have not gone unnoticed, however, and last week Julien was officially recognized as Regional District of East Kootenay (RDEK) Area G volunteer of the year.

Like a great many other valley residents, Julien originally came from eastern Canada (Hamilton) before he moved out west in 1978.

“I went to Calgary to make a fortune in the oil business,” he told the Pioneer.

But fate had other plans.

Julien had a friend in the Columbia Valley. He came for a visit and was instantly hooked by the mountains, the river and lake, as well as the hiking and skiing and other outdoor pursuits.

“I found a job here, I had a place to stay with my friend, and well, I just never left,” he explained.

That first job was working with residents of Pynelogs, which at the time was a home for adults with mental development disabilities.

“It was a really great bunch of people. It was really a lot of fun,” remembered Julien.

He later began working for the local school district (now called Rocky Mountain School District No. 6). “They were looking for bus drivers and maintenance workers. I had my licence (to drive buses),” he said.

And so he began driving kids on big yellow buses and doing maintenance work at the schools in Canal Flats (there were two schools there then).

Julien stayed with the school district for nearly four decades, but kept things fresh by changing roles every five years or so. He said the change-ups sometimes felt like he was getting a whole new career.

He ended up as a school district operations supervisor, ensuring buildings and grounds were in tip-top shape, before finally retiring in 2017.

Julien lived in Invermere initially, but a few decades ago he moved to Edgewater where he still lives with his wife. There’s been plenty to keep him busy in retirement.

There’s family of course (two of his wife’s three kids still live in the valley, as do the grandkids), but also Julien has been a part of a great many volunteer endeavours in Edgewater.

A big fan of promoting literacy, Julien volunteered each week at Edgewater Elementary School for many years as part of the school’s ‘One to One’ reading program.

Continued on page 7

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The Columbia Valley Pioneer

PERSPECTIVE

The soldier in the trench

November 9, 2023

Historical Lens

Editorial The downpour felt like molten mercury drops on his face as he looked up from the trench to see another airstrike.

The soldier, all of 22, sat huddled in a depression that a comrade previously dug to escape the deluge, but the walls were caving in fast . . . like his mind. His comrade lay dead in a growing pool of muck.

It was only a few hours ago that they showed each other faded photographs of their wives that they left behind. His compatriot’s wife was pregnant.

The soldier pulled out the wrinkled photo of his wife again; she had promised him a child when he returned.

Yep, he was going to be a dad, and that was all that mattered.

Another round of mortars rocked the trench, accompanied by distant machine gun fire. His thoughts drifted back to the proud day he enlisted. He felt it was his duty to stand against tyranny and protect the lives of his friends and family. If he didn’t, they would have no freedom in a world of oppression, and he couldn’t allow that to happen.

“I’ll wait for you no matter how long it takes,” she had said when he departed, wearing her best dress.

“Come back to me,” she whispered in his ear.

As he sank deeper in the mud, another explosion lit up the night sky. He didn’t want to think of the death toll all around him, he only wanted to think of her . . . and the family they would create together.

But the ultimate sacrifice would mean that would never happen. He was prepared to die, but this was one time in his life he felt truly terrified. Would they lay a wreath in his memory? Would they call out his name at the town cenotaph? His mind could barely keep up with his staccato thoughts.

It was just before dawn that the rain subsided, leaving the soldier camouflaged against the trench wall like he didn’t exist. Enemy troops would have missed him during their reconnaissance, only if he kept his eyes closed. But he wasn’t so sure now as he heard an armoured vehicle approaching . . . and voices, yet he couldn’t make out what they were saying.

He frantically checked his magazine to see how many rounds he had left; surely not enough. A wayward sliver of sunlight through brooding clouds stabbed his eyes as a towering figure appeared silhouetted above him. A rifle rested against his hip.

“On your feet, soldier! This ain’t no knitting club,” his commanding officer barked, spitting a straight stream of tobacco in front of the wide-eyed recruit.

Lyonel Doherty, editor

Five women and a man sit in front of a local business in Wilmer in 1912-13.

Photo provided by the Windermere and District Historical Society

Homes withstanding extremes It seems like we’ve just finished trying to decide whether or not to open our windows at night – do we let the cool air in or keep the smoke out? Now those same windows may be frosting up and letting the cold air in, even though they are closed.

It’s clear our climate is changing. Heat record after heat record was broken this summer. It appeared like the warm days of fall would never end, and then suddenly plunged into winter.

Our homes are our refuge, so it is important that they help us withstand the extremes, keeping us safe and comfortable. That may mean getting a heat pump

to keep you cool in the summer and warm in the winter. Or perhaps we need to add insulation to our attics or walls. Maybe we need an air filter to clean the air of smoke in the summer. But the how-to of all of this can be overwhelming. Where to start and how to pay for it (there are lots of rebates available, but they can be hard to navigate).

The Home Retrofit Fair can help answer your questions. Many experts on site, door prizes, and food. See you at the Columbia Valley Chamber of Commerce on November 12 from 1-5 p.m.

Tracy Flynn, Fairmont Hot Springs

The Columbia Valley

CANADIAN COMMUNITY NEWSPAPER AWARD 2013

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November 9, 2023

The Columbia Valley Pioneer

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Edgewater man chosen as VOTY for Area G

Continued from page 5 “The idea is just to get them interested in reading. It was always fun,” said Julien. “I knew the principal and teacher were looking for volunteers for it, and once I retired, I finally had the time.”

His background with the school district also came in handy when he volunteered with the Steamboat Mountain Music Festival. The festival was held on the school grounds for years, and Julien put his knowledge of those grounds to good effect, helping to organize set-up for the festival.

Julien has also been deeply involved with many of the Edgewater Recreation Society’s projects over the years, including the new baseball backstop at Wittman field, and the rebuild of Frank’s Rink, Edgewater’s famous covered outdoor rink. He spent many hours coordinating support partners, recruiting volunteers, plowing through the mountains of paperwork and permits the project involved, and even working as the finishing carpenter. Now that the rebuild is done, Julien is a member of the volun-

teer rink committee, which helps make and maintain the ice there.

“I always liked playing outdoor sports, so I wanted to give back and help others enjoy them too,” said Julien.

In the summer Frank’s Rink plays host to the Steamboat Mountain Pickleball Club, and no surprise Julien is a volunteer with that group as well, having painted the lines for the pickleball courts and helping set up and store the nets.

“Pickleball is a fun sport. It gets you out and moving and you get to meet all sorts of people you might not otherwise meet,” he said.

Julien is self-effacing about his volunteerism and about his volunteer of the year award.

“I was definitely surprised. I couldn’t believe it. There are so many people who step forward to help out, and I was just one of the many who do. In some ways I feel I don’t deserve it (the award), because I was just one part of a large team,” he told the Pioneer. “Edgewater is such a great community in that way. It’s a really great bunch of

people living here, and everyone pitches in to help out.”

Area G Director Roberta Schnider presented the award to Julien during a celebration at the Edgewater Community Hall on Thursday, Nov. 2.

“Norm has long been a patient and hardworking volunteer who quietly steps in to fill a gap wherever needed. He has played a role in building, maintaining, or supporting so many of the recreational amenities that Edgewater enjoys and has had a profound impact on his community,” said Schnider.

We would like to extend an invitation to all members and interested parties to the

ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING

WINDERMERE VALLEY YOUTH CENTRE SOCIETY Thursday, November 16th, 2023 7:00 pm Summit Youth Centre Hub 201 7th Ave, Invermere Review 2023 operations and provide 2024 outlook.

Please advise if interested in joining the board. www.invermeresummityouthcentre.org 250-342-3033

Edgewater Legion president Noreen Lang (second from left) pins a poppy on RDEK director (Area G) Roberta Schnider, while Sgt. at Arms Darel Lang pins a poppy on acting mayor of Radium Dale Shudra at the Edgewater cenotaph.

Photo submitted

We want your feedback.

CLIMATE ACTION PLAN

PUBLIC SURVEY NOW OPEN

The RDEK is developing a Climate Action Plan for its six electoral areas to increase climate resilience and reduce emissions contributing to climate change. As part of this process the RDEK is seeking public input via online survey.

Reducing emissions, or climate mitigation, includes any actions that work to reduce or prevent the emission of greenhouse gases and is an important part of responding to climate change. The Plan will also focus on increasing resilience, or climate adaptation measures, which will help us adjust to impacts already felt in our region and reduce our vulnerability to the harmful effects of climate change.

Your input is important and will help shape the future of your community.

Please take the time to complete the survey by November 30 at engage.rdek.bc.ca/climate FOR MORE INFORMATION, please contact Krista Gilbert kgilbert@rdek.bc.ca | 250-489-0314 | 1-888-478-7335

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

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The Columbia Valley Pioneer

November 9, 2023

Chief Donald Sam reflects on language

By Julia Magsombol Local Journalism Initiative julia@columbiavalleypioneer.com Every 24th of October, The Ktunaxa celebrate their language. The Ktunaxa language is one of the most unique languages in the world — it is isolated, meaning it’s a language that has no genetic relationship with another language.

Last week, the Pioneer had the chance to speak with ?Akisq’nuk First Nation’s Chief Donald Sam. He explained his relationship with the language and how this connects with his family and ancestors.

The Ktunaxa language is also known as the “Kootenay.”

Chief Sam Language is vital to our undertanding of who we are and how we relate to the world around us. Q’apsin Kin qatwi· The phrase means, what do you think? What do you want? In the Kootenay language, qatwi· means the heart. “What is in your heart?” -Implies we think with our heart. ?Akisq’nuk is the Indian Reserve be-

tween Fairmont and Windermere, but in our language, it translates to the land of the two lakes- Our language is descriptive.

I remember, as a child, hearing the elders speaking in Kootenay — Granny Alice, Aunt Phyllis, Uncle Frank, Papa Jack, Pea-Soup, and Aunt Jenny Alpine, to name a few. The sounds seemed to come naturally, yet I never understood what they said. But today, the language gives me an emotional response, bringing back to those formative years. Oh, I long to hear them again I would tell them “hun ?upxini” I understand.

What I didn’t know then but know now is why the Ktunaxa language was in critical danger of extinction.

To the Ktunaxa, our ancient language tells us who we are as a people — where we come from and how we relate to each other; it teaches us culture. I didn’t know then the pains my Elders endured to retain the knowledge of our language. I didn’t know why our language had been decreasing.

Since the 1950s, the number of people speaking the Ktunaxa language has

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been decreasing. This is a direct result of the genocide exacted by colonial laws and policies over the past 150 years. The most notable one is the residential school system. These were strategically made to break-up the family and interrupt the teachings of our children, including the language. The people running the residential schools would physically harm children from the ages of 5 to 16 just for speaking their native language. My mom was beaten for speaking Kootenay.

Today, we have fewer than a dozen fluent Elders.

To reverse the trends, to give life back to our language, and to speak and understand each other in our language is what we call language revitalization.

In some instances, revitalization can and does occur at home with parents and grandparents teaching children. Some of our Elders remember the language but cannot speak it; we call them silent speakers. Some have been trying to learn with various success, using various materials developed with the guidance of Ktunaxa knowledge holders.

The Kootenay language is a linguistic isolate, meaning it is not spoken anywhere in the world and is not related to any other language family. Dedicated revitalization efforts are needed if our language is to survive.

In the 1970s, a linguist worked with Kootenay people and developed a writing system for our oral language. This has been an excellent resource for us to learn using the subsequent materials developed over the past 40 years or more.

I have been skeptical about teaching the language to the public or in public schools. It always seemed like a charade, like it was not the enough. But when I witnessed an event with local government leaders in Cranbrook attempting to say Ki?su?k kyu?kyit, a greeting in our language. It was a simple act demonstrating thoughtfulness and a sincere desire to connect. It was respectful and opened the

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Chief Donald Sam

Photo submitted

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Now, I believe our schools today can help reverse what the Residential Schools started. It would need to be a thoughtful respectful approach, not doing for but doing with. Starting with teaching simple phrases or hosting a Knowledge Holder, most of all making a welcoming environment for our language to exist.

What is ironic is that on Ktunaxa Literacy Day, our school district reprimanded an employee for sharing Ktunaxa resources with Indigenous Education Support workers. The same Resources that were developed by Ktunaxa people, used and shared in other schools.

That is the opposite of creating a safe environment or welcoming place for our language or people in schools. Instead, it demonstrates the challenge in creating a safe place for the Ktunaxa language to flow. It demonstrates the need for relationship building in our education system from the top down.

For those that wish to learn more, keep trying. I encourage everyone to learn a little bit of or speak a little Kootenay every day, even a simple greeting “KeySue-k Que- kyit.”

Ki?su?k kyu?kyit.

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November 9, 2023

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Invermere hopes to keep remote worker

By Steve Hubrecht steve@coumbiavalleypioneer.com The District of Invermere’s environmental planner has moved to northern B.C., but the district hopes to keep her in the role, working remotely.

In summer 2022 the district hired Anne-Sophie Corriveau as its environmental planner after months of trying to fill the position.

The search and the hire came after sustained lobbying from local residents to hire a designated environmental planner.

At the time Corriveau was already working for Invermere as its FireSmart coordinator, and initially didn’t apply for

the job because she modestly didn’t consider herself qualified. When district staff found out about her background, including her Master’s degree in Earth Science, they urged her to apply.

Once hired, Corriveau immediately began working on a number of projects, including setting up electric vehicle stations (for both electric cars and E-bikes), the district’s proposed plastic bag ban bylaw, an updated flood plain bylaw, looking at the potential environmental impacts of a planned trail along the Invermere dike, and Invermere’s storm water management issues. She also set about pursuing grants to help Invermere pay for some of these projects.

But then life intervened, in a positive way, as Corriveau and her partner welcomed their first child. She left on maternity leave, before the family relocated to Smithers for work opportunities for Corriveau’s partner.

Invermere planner Rory Hromadnik has taken up some of the projects Corriveau is working on, but he and other district staff simply don’t have enough time or the background to completely fill her shoes.

How will the district do that? Invermere chief administrative officer Andrew Young explained to the Pioneer that Corriveau is not, in fact, totally gone.

“We are hoping she can continue on

a contractual basis, as a remote worker, at least for a period of time,” said Young, adding this arrangement would be subject to approval in Invermere’s budgeting process, which begins soon.

“She (Corriveau) has done some amazing work for us,” added Young.

Corriveau is originally from Quebec.

She joined the B.C. Wildfire Service and worked as a smoke jumper for several summers, before parlaying that experience into her role as Invermere’s FireSmart coordinator. For a time Corriveau was working as both Invermere’s FireSmart coordinator and its environmental planner, before Carey Colin took over the FireSmart position.

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Former wildland firefighter Anne-Sophie Corriveau hopes to continue as environmental planner for the District of Invermere on a contractual (remote) basis.

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The Columbia Valley Pioneer

November 9, 2023

OUT OF OFFICE… Breaking Ground for Our Forever Home: Peaks Gymnastics We are thrilled to share some incredible news with our beloved Peaks Gymnastics community and the Columbia Valley at large. After years of hard work, dedication, and unwavering support from our local community, we are embarking on an exciting journey to build our forever home. This is a momentous occasion that promises to transform the way we serve athletes and the community.

The journey began with a vision to provide a state-of-the-art facility that would nurture talent, promote physical well-being, and create lasting memories. Today, we are one step closer to turning that vision into reality.

We owe our deepest gratitude to the Lake Windermere Lions Club for their invaluable support and generosity of leasing Peaks the land on which our forever home will stand, demonstrating their unwavering commitment to the betterment of our community.

Our new facility will not only provide a safe and inspiring space for gymnasts of all ages and skill levels to pursue their passion, but it will also allow us to expand our programs and reach more individuals.

Whether it’s recreational gymnastics, competitive training, or collaborative training programs with other sports groups, Peaks Gymnastics will continue to be a place where dreams take flight.

This project is not just about bricks and mortar; it’s about investing in the future of our youth and building a stronger, healthier community. We will continue to collaborate with local organizations, schools, and families to ensure that the benefits of our forever home extend far beyond our gymnastics mats.

As we break ground and embark on this remarkable journey, we invite you to join us and be a part of our exciting future. Together, we will build a legacy that will inspire generations to come.

Stay tuned for updates and thank you once again to the Lake Windermere Lions Club and their ongoing support and effort to make this dream a reality. The best is yet to come!

November 9, 2023

Thursday, November 9 • 6:30 Radium Rotary Bingo. Radium Hall. Starts at 7 – 50/50 and door prizes.

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

• 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: Seniors Tea. Invermere Public Library. Join us for a cuppa and a chat on the 2nd & 4th Thursday of each month. All welcome!

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

• 7:00pm-10:00pm: Columbia Valley Rockies vs Fernie • 7:30pm: Trivia Night Windermere Whitehouse Pub.

Friday, November 10 • 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-3:45pm: Wild Woolies: Radium Hot Springs Public Library. Join our fibre arts circle! Everyone and every skill level welcome. No registration required.

• 6:00pm-7:00pm: Pride Coffee Club: Stolen Church Gelato and Coffee.

Connecting the 2LGBTQiA+ community and their allies. Second Friday of every month.

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

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

Saturday, November 11 • 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.

• 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.

The Columbia Valley Pioneer

• 2:00pm-4:00pm: Buddy Reading. Invermere Public Library. Book a one-onone 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!

Sunday, November 12 • 1:00pm-5:00pm Home Retrofit Fair. Lions Club Hall. Get started on your energy-saving home retrofit by consulting the professionals knowledgeable speakers and renovation experts. Drop by anytime 1-5pm.

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

Members and guests welcome.

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

Monday, November 13 • 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: Poker (Chip up for Charity). The Station Pub $20 buy-in. Every Monday.

Tuesday, November 14 • 9:30am-10:30am: Parent Tot Yoga. Mountain Home Yoga. Well-rounded 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, lovingkindness and compassion, while practicing breath and playing with postures.

All ages welcome!

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

• 10:30am-11:30am: Homeschool Meetup. Invermere Public Library. Dropin, 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-8:00pm: Second Winds Community Band. Practice at Invermere Catholic Church Annex. For info please email dalvande@shaw.ca

•

Wednesday, November 15

• 5:00pm-8:00pm FireSmart Info Session. Invermere Library. Join Carey Collin, the Invermere FireSmart Coordinator, to chat about wildfire readiness and our Community Wildfire Resiliency Plan. Bring any questions you may have!

• 7:00pm-9:00pm: Invermere Community Drum Circle. Pynelogs. Rhythm

By Nature and the Columbia Valley Arts Council bring you a fully interactive and immersive experience twice a month at the Invermere Community Drum Circle. Professionally facilitated, you will learn about the history of the drum, drumming cultures, and drumming techniques but that's only the beginning! https://www.tickettailor.com/events/ rhythmbynature/store • 10:00am-11:00am: Senior's Yoga Columbia Valley Centre, $2 drop-in.

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

• 2:00pm-3:30pm: Wholesome Hobbies. Radium Public Library. Every third Wednesday join us for a rotating series of projects and activities for adults 50+. This week is‘Tea & Board Games’. Registration required and limited.

• 3:00pm-4:30pm: After School Club. Invermere Public 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-9:00pm: Wednesday Dinners & Meat Draw & 50/50 Invermere Legion. All welcome.

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The Columbia Valley Pioneer

November 9, 2023

Indigenous women highlighted on film

By Julia Magsombol Local Journalism Initiative julia@columbiavalleypioneer.com They say that movies are special as they deliver hope to the audience. This is the goal in mind for Carrier Sekani Family Services (CSFS) as they seek expressions of interest that highlight the stories of Indigenous women across Canada.

“We’re looking to make beautiful, creative mini-documentaries that will share some life lessons and cultural practices,” said Matt Smiley, a film director and producer who has been collaborating with CSFS for almost 10 years.

Smiley has also worked with Mary Teegee, the Executive Director of CSFS, who has been one of his longtime producing partners. They first started their collaboration on Highway of Tears, a documentary film produced in 2015 that screened all over the world and aired on Netflix.

Once again, Smiley and Teegee are teaming up again to produce another impactful project with CSFS next year. He noted the cross-country project will be a series of mini-documentaries focused on Indigenous women.

The series is called We Are Hope, We Are Strength. CSFS has received funding from Women and Gender Equality to create this meaningful project.

CSFS and Smiley want to showcase the lives of Indigenous women — where they feel they have been successful. The films will showcase messages of hope and strength, and will share their culture and traditions.

They are also open to sharing their stories of violence and discrimination and how some have helped themselves to change that.

The series will feature the artistic beauty of Highway 16 — the Highway of Tears. According to CSFS, this may be to respond to the calls for justice and challenge [the audiences] to think: What will I do to be a part of the change?”

“We’re looking for storytellers and filmmakers from all walks of life that have a very strong vision — maybe something within their community where they would want to showcase their stories of strength and hope, with a spotlight on Indigenous women within their communities,” said Smiley. “Who has inspired them in their lives? Where do they get their strength from?” He explained they are not only considering women’s work on this project but also from men, who empower and help women to make changes in their communities. The project is also open to LGBTIQA+ for submissions.

“Collaborating with CSFS for many years now has always been an eye-opening experience. It’s beautiful to see how much

growth has been there and to witness how much improvement we can see within the communities and they service,” Smiley said.

“On this project in particular, what I do love is to witness first hand the evolution of progress. I started my journey with Highway of Tears. To see that we’re veering towards the Highway of Hope and focusing on stories of hope and strength is inspiring. We can never forget what happened in the past and cognizant that women & girls continue to go missing, but I’m

happy that we can showcase the beauty of Indigenous culture. The next generation has the opportunity to thrive under the guidance of their elders and community leaders who have worked tirelessly to ensure their culture can be enjoyed by future generations.”

Smiley and Mary Teegee also produced the award winning film For Love, narrated by Shania Twain which is currently streaming on Netflix. The film received many positive reviews and feedback.

A series of documentaries called ‘We Are Hope, We Are Strength’ will highlight the different life stories of Indigenous women.

Photo submitted

District reviews school renaming policy Columbia Valley Pioneer staff Rocky Mountain School District No. 6 is reviewing a new policy to guide the board in case it has to name or rename one of its schools.

The issue was discussed at last week’s regular meeting, prefaced by a report.

Superintendent Karen Shipka told the Pioneer that Policy 2900 was initiated because the district does not have a policy that would guide this process should the

SUBMIT YOUR

PHOTOS!

If you have a good snapshot you’d like to share, please send it to: admin@columbiavalleypioneer.com

need arise.

Over the past year, the district moved all three alternate schools under the administration of one principal, Lisa Tenta, who is also the administrator for the Rocky Mountain Online Learning School.

“As part of this shift, a process was required to explore options for renaming these schools to better reflect the new school design,” Shipka said, adding they will initiate a committee process to rename these schools in light of the new policy.

OPEN HOUSE November 16, 10am - 4pm New Women’s Resource Centre #1-505 7th Avenue, Invermere Come and see us in our new location!

The policy states that the board would rename an existing school only in exceptional circumstances and after thorough study.

“Existing schools will not normally be renamed, however, we must recognize the colonial legacy in the naming of our schools,” the policy says, adding the district should keep in mind the naming protocols of the Ktunaxa, Secwe’pemc and Métis bands.

However, one piece of feedback the board received from a member of the public disagreed with renaming schools due to the current “negative political colonial legacy spin.”

The respondent goes on to say, “I am proud of the multi-generations of ancestors in Canada and what they have done – paying taxes and fought in two world wars for this country. I do not want schools renamed as more important protocols to be First Nation . . . we are all Canadians.”

November 9, 2023

The Columbia Valley Pioneer

13

Fundraiser with films, auction for wild

By Baiba Morrow Wildsight Invermere Films have the power to inspire, entertain and provoke us, and the 10th Wild & Scenic Film Festival on November 18 promises to do all of this.

The evening program is packed full of thought-provoking, funny, and informative films centred around the environment, wildlife, and the enduring human spirit.

With the new 36-foot screen and a high-definition projector, the venue at the Columbia Valley Centre now offers an exceptional audience experience.

With an underlying festival theme of Turn Your Passion into Action, the evening is an opportunity to be connected to your mountain community. It’s about supporting efforts to protect biodiversity, wildlife habitat and a thriving ecosystem. It’s Wildsight Invermere’s annual fundraiser.

The Auction for the Wild is already in motion with 53 items donated by the arts, wellness, and outdoor communities from both sides of the Rockies. Bidding is online at 32auctions.com/wildsightinvermere. The items will be on display at the Columbia Valley Centre on the night of the festival.

“As we count down the days to the festival and the auction bidding gains momentum, we’re touched by the support we’ve received,” says Karen Barkley, Wildsight Invermere’s branch manager. “For example, the wonderful women from the Valley Piecemakers, the local quilting guild, have stitched together a mountain-themed quilt.

Why? Because they like supporting local causes. And then, when Radium Brewing came to us with the idea of putting our logo on their new beer cans of Purcell Pilsner

and Kootenay Park Pale Ale, we were thrilled. Of course, that’s the beer we’ll all be drinking at the festival. With 18 festival sponsors and dozens of in-kind donations for door prizes and the auction, we know that our message of environmental advocacy resonates in the Columbia Valley. We thank everyone for their support.”

As in previous years, students from David Thompson Secondary School will be up at the lectern to introduce one of the films. Feeling the Apocalypse takes on the topic of societal anxiety about climate change. Who better than the teens to address this.

Continued on page 14

Photo submitted

Purchase one of our homes currently under construction, or choose one of our beautiful Pineridge lots and the plan that fits your mountain home lifestyle! from the $600s

The Capilano—This single family home currently under construction has spectacular views from the covered deck. There is still time to choose your colours and finishes! from the $800s

The Villas — 2 bedroom single level living, currently under construction 1403 – 1708 sq.ft. with optional lower level development.

The two car garage can even be enlarged to fit a boat! from the high $600s

NOW SELLING! NEW!

MOUNTAIN VILLAS AND COTTAGE HOMES

A Recre

ation Community

50% goes to Camp and 50% goes to the:

Nov. 13 – 19 At participating restaurants in Canada. © Tim Hortons, 2023

Hospice Society of the Columbia Valley is happy to announce this year it will be the recipient of proceeds from the Tim Hortons Holiday Smile Cookies Campaign.

Make sure you purchase some as you pick up your favourite beverage or food, in-store or at the drivethrough.

Do you have a staff meeting or a get together? You can pre-order your cookies by completing the form online at www.hospicesocietycv.com Support your Hospice and the Tim Hortons Summer Camps as well by investing in the most delicious cookies.

NEW! DEVELOPING LIFESTYLES FOR HALF A CENTURY

Stop by our Sales Centre we would love to meet you.

21, 1904 Pineridge Mtn Link, Invermere 9am – 5pm Tuesday through Sunday We are also happy to meet at a time that works for you, either at the Sales Center in Invermere or our design centre in Calgary.

403-369-3000 877-578-4493 pineridgemountain.ca

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The Columbia Valley Pioneer

November 9, 2023

Film festival will be ‘wild & scenic’ for all

Continued from page 13 For an alternate take on the traditional wildlife film, My Neighbour is a Bear offers a heartfelt ode to the joys of coexisting with wild nature. Travel the world through the 10 films - from Brazil to Baffin Island to Chile, Italy and Nevada - and then vow to take action. As Tim Shields, the unconventional field biologist profiled in Eco-Hack! states, “If we don’t want a really lonely planet that’s just us, and ravens, and rats and cockroaches, we’ve got a whole ton of work to do.”

See you at the festival on November 18. Go to wildsight.ca/events/2023wsff-invermere/ for more information and tickets. Cost is $25 for members, $30 for non-members, and youth (15 and younger) $10. Doors open at 5 p.m., with films running from 6:30 to 9:30 p.m. For more details call 250-409-5708 or email invermere@wildsight.ca.

INVERMERE SENIORS ASSOCIATION

Left, biologist Tim Shields has watched Mojave Desert tortoise populations plummet since the 1990s. The latest threat? Ballooning raven populations from increased human activity. Bottom, Erik Boomer and Sarah McNair-Landry embark on a bold, multi-sport 45-day expedition in the remote landscape of Baffin Island.

Left photo by Gregg Segal

Beginner’s Bridge (Real Beginners)

5-6 weeks of Lessons by Andrea and Terry Beginning Nov 13, 4-6 pm at the Seniors’ Hall $2 per lesson (maybe a gift for the instructors)

Contact Andrea at a.petzold@shaw.ca if you have questions.

Take time to remember

By Donna Tunney Friends of the Radium Library

Farm SMART Program

Apply now

Upgrade your Farm.

Learn more

ourtrust.org/farmSMART

Columbia Basin Trust gratefully operates on the unceded traditional territories of the Ktunaxa, Lheidli T’enneh, Secwépemc, Sinixt and Syilx Nations.

ourtrust.org

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

Take time to remember.

During Veterans’ Week, November 5 to 11, Canadians take time to remember and honour the brave individuals who served our country, as well as those who continue to serve. November 8 marks National Indigenous Veterans’ Day – a day of remembrance and commemoration of the contributions of Indigenous veterans in Canada’s war efforts and peacekeeping operations.

Remembrance Day, November 11, marks the final day of Veterans’ Week.

The Radium Library will have resources and educational materials available at the library during Veterans’ Week – provided by Veterans Affairs Canada.

There will also be books and information on display. The Radium Library will be closed on Saturday, Nov. 11 in observance of Remembrance Day.

Circle Saturday, November 25 on your calendar because you won’t want to miss our third annual book sale. This is a terrific opportunity to stock up on a stellar selection of gently used paperbacks and hardcovers at low prices.

You’ll find all your favourite authors and dozens of genres — women’s fiction, mystery, thrillers, non-fiction, and more.

Great for reading when you’re curled up by the fire this winter or basking in the sun next summer. Peruse our coffee table books for that perfect one to add to your décor.

We’ve got specialty handcrafted gift items too, separately priced, all to help you check off those names on your Christmas list. Bring the kids along. There’s an assortment of children’s books for them too. Let them show off their artistic talents with our colouring sheets. Or they can get a head start on their letters to Santa and enjoy a visit with Mrs. Claus.

When you’re finished shopping, relax at our refreshment stand, where we’re serving up homemade cookies and cider for purchase by donation.

It’ll be a fun time for the whole family — Saturday, Nov. 25, from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m at the Radium Hot Springs Centre, 4863 Stanley Street.

November 9, 2023

The Columbia Valley Pioneer

BEYOND BEY ND

15

THE BLUE BLUE LINE THE LINE

By Stephanie Stevens Winning is the one of the best feelings a team can have.

But sometimes a loss is what teaches the most important lessons.

The Columbia Valley Rockies found themselves on both ends of the spectrum last weekend with a win against the Nelson Leafs on Friday, Nov. 3 and a shutout loss to the Castlegar Rebels Nov. 4.

Friday’s win was a well matched game, with no scoring until the second period when Tysin Mulligan opened it up (assists from Carter Velker and Danny Schmirler). The Leafs tied it up shortly before the end of the second period, but Mulligan’s second goal of the night (unassisted) won

the game for the Rockies.

Saturday’s tilt with the Rebels, however, was a bitter pill to swallow.

“I think there is a lot to learn from a game like that,” said head coach and general manager Tayler Sincennes. “We were right there and kind of lost our cool with a couple of bad bounces and it threw us off.

We need to stay more in the moment and not worry about the little things out of our control.”

The Rockies host the Fernie Ghostriders on Nov. 9 in the Eddie Mountain Memorial Arena and on Nov. 10 the Kimberley Dynamiters will be in town to try their luck. The Rockies head on the road for the weekend, with 100 Mile House and Kamloops on the map.

Seniors know a lot, but there’s always more to learn.

First it was a win against the Nelson Leafs, then a shutout loss to the Castlegar Rebels. Here, is this a new kind of meditative yoga for Rockies’ goal scorer Tysin Mulligan?

Photos by Stephanie Stevens

Help ensure your later years are safe and secure by learning about programs, services, and information available for seniors.

Canada.ca/seniors 1 800 O-Canada

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The Columbia Valley Pioneer

November 9, 2023

A cheery Kayla Wolfenden can’t wait for the Garden of Lights event in December. At right, the first lights are put up by Summit Trail Makers volunteers, led by Doug Andrus.

Photos submitted

Feed the heart, nourish a community

By Barbara Thrasher Groundswell “Everyone has the right to healthy food. It’s our first line of defence against costly and debilitating illness,” says Groundswell board member Michele Wall. “It is a sad state when a head of lettuce isn’t affordable. Ensuring organic food through local gardening has become the responsibility of everyone.”

Here’s your chance to support this important issue while making your holiday season a little brighter - Mark your calendar: Dec 15/16 and Dec 22/23 – the first an-

Thank You!

Groundswell Community Greenhouse and Gardens Annual Apple Rescue Program would like to thank our volunteers in making this our biggest year ever!

Our 37 board members and the Columbia Valley Food Bank volunteers worked hard and harvested 1.5 tons of apples, crabapples, pears and apricots. Food was distributed back to our community including schools, daycares, Mountain Heart Hub, foodbank and local farms.

Thank you to all who participated!

nual Garden of Lights – four glamorous holiday evenings showcasing music, food, and festivities under 10,000 twinkling lights at Groundswell Community Greenhouse and Gardens in Invermere, a non-profit run by volunteers. Yes, this is the group that grew eight community garden beds into 50, partnered with Home Hardware to teach 245 JA Laird Elementary students how to grow food and donate it to the Columbia Valley Food Bank, tripled the tomato production for many happy home gardeners, and keeping bears safe with the Apple Rescue program, all while educating on permaculture and living soil; treating the earth gently while it provides for us.

Many in the valley have seen how quickly our grocery shelves empty during fires, floods, and avalanches, and are doing their part to raise money for more food production in the valley by producing some special holiday memories for you.

The Invermere Brick was the first to step up making the evenings possible. Owner, Robin Aldred says, “The Brick Invermere is honoured to be the lead sponsor for the Garden of Lights supporting food sustainability. This is a subject that I and many other locals feel very strongly about as the need in the community is apparent and ongoing. After speaking with volunteers who work so diligently to make sure that The Groundswell Network operates as optimally as possible, it becomes clear how large that need is. I feel that it is our shared responsibility as community members to help support those that endeavour to make the valley a better place for all of us, and The Brick Invermere is proud to be able to give back to our community.”

HI Jinx’s talented owner Arly Franson and her creative team are heading up decorating to bring Candyland, Wonderland and Whoville to the gardens.

REACH OUT

Linnea and Louise are making ‘gingies’, lollys, and gum drops a feast for your eyes.

The David Thompson IA students are creating a Starland that will light the sky with their brilliance.

Summit Trail Makers, led by Doug Andrus, are putting down their chainsaws and picking up their staple guns to install a rainbow of lights for you and your little ones to stroll through.

The Home Hardware team, a strong supporter of food sustainability, is building stands for 50 trees decorated by individual sponsors … you will vote on your favourite tree – from fantasy to fantastic to funny; you will share laughter with neighbours as you enjoy them all.

Columbia Valley Arts partnered up to give us our awesome Entertainment Director Slone Leman, an upand-coming recording artist, who is creating a musical tapestry that includes the new JA Laird choir, Spring Burke with her violin romancing you in the greenhouse, and Bryant Olender kicking out the beat in the gardens as you dance around the fire.

The little ones will enjoy Kayla Wolfenden, appearing as Cindy Lou, with a reading of The Night Before Christmas each evening at 6 p.m. Stand by for much more.

Tayton Bay will have a hot toddy ready to warm you, The Smoke House’s mouth-watering pulled pork on a bun will fill your tummy, and Sweet Mountain Ice will have your favourite popcorn treat. They’ll be joined by the students of JA Laird who will be selling hot chocolate to raise money for their garden program.

Tickets are on sale now at www.groundswellnetwork. ca/gardenoflights/tickets (tickets will only be available online).

Come and connect at the Garden of Lights!

I am working for you!

www.DougClovechok.ca

1-844-432-2300

doug.clovechok.mla@leg.bc.ca As your MLA I am listening to what matters most to the people of Columbia River-Revelstoke

November 9, 2023

The Columbia Valley Pioneer

17

Windermere man gets new memorial

By Steve Hubrecht steve@columbiavalleypioneer.com On Remembrance Day, the Columbia Valley remembers.

In the weeks leading up to Nov. 11, the faces of local veterans from conflicts old and new grace banners on downtown Invermere’s lampposts as part of the ‘Honour Our Veterans’ Banner Program. Some veteran’s faces and names are very familiar to today’s valley residents. Other veteran’s faces and names are less familiar — the details of life histories having become hazy through the long march of time.

But familiar or less familiar, all these faces have a story to tell. And all should be remembered.

Harold Braathen is one veteran featured on a banner, his name perhaps less familiar to current Columbia Valley residents because the Second World War (in which he served) ended almost eight decades ago and also because the Braathen family moved from the valley decades ago.

Even a member of the Braathen family contacted by the Pioneer in Vancouver conceded that the details of Harold’s service, and the family’s time in Windermere, were not well known to her, having faded slightly through the decades; a bit more lost each time a member of the older generation passed away.

But Harold’s story and that of the Braathen family in the Columbia Valley have been revived in recent years, thanks to the connective power of the Internet and the research efforts of a dedicated dad in the United Kingdom and an author in northeastern B.C. The dad — Mike Wainwright — has a personal interest in the Second World War. His own father, John (Jack) Wainwright, served as a bomb aimer with the British Royal Air Force (RAF) during the war. Like many who served in the war, Jack didn’t talk much about it afterwards with his family.

One of the few things Mike knew was that Jack was part of a bomber crew that was shot down near the town of Beauvais, France, during a bombing raid on July 4, 1944.

Jack survived, was picked up by members of the French Resistance and lived for a time posing as a Frenchman before returning to safety in the U.K. In 2004 Mike’s son James was given a school assignment to complete over the Easter holidays — to write a 30-page report about the Second World War. James decided to write about his grandfather, who had died in 1978. Mike pulled out Jack’s medals and memorabilia.

Then he and James began digging around for other information, finding tidbits in various online records and archives, not just about Jack but about other members of the crew flying with Jack on July 4. The bomber had a crew of eight when it was shot down. Two (including Jack) survived), but six of the crew were killed, including

its Canadian second navigator, Harold Braathen.

“We just followed all the various rabbit holes (of information) that popped up,” Mike told the Pioneer.

“There was a lot.”

James compiled all the information and got an A+ on his assignment. Then Mike posted it on a website he created. The website attracted attention and additional information from families of the other crew members, as well as people such as British Columbia author Dan Cimini, who was researching a book about B.C. veterans.

As more information came in, Mike expanded the website, then later re-launched it.

Harold was the eighth man aboard the Lancaster ME699 when it was shot down. He was originally born in Sweden in 1916. The Braathen family moved to Canada in 1927, while Harold and his siblings were still young, settling in Windermere in the Columbia Valley. The kids attended the Windermere elementary school and then high school in Invermere. After graduating, Harold stud-

ied at the University of British Columbia (UBC), taking courses in math and education. He began working as a teacher in Cecil Lake in northeastern B.C.’s Peace region in 1938.

In 1942, Harold enlisted in the military. A reviewing medical officer wrote on Harold’s enlistment form that the young man was joining, with a desire to be aircrew because “he felt it was time he was in it” and that Harold was “pleasant, sincere, co-operative and quite intelligent.

From his motivation and apparent lack of aggressiveness he is not too impressive as pilot material but should be alright as a navigator.”

Harold began training in 1942 in Edmonton, with some courses in Regina. In May 1943, little more than a month before being posted overseas, Harold married Cecil Lake resident Audrey Framst in a small ceremony.

He arrived in the U.K. in July 1943. There he continued training, finishing on the last day of June 1944. Four days later he joined Australian pilot Bill Young’s Lancaster crew, flying as a ‘second dickie’ (an extra navigator) to get experience before navigating his own crew.

Bill Young’s Lancaster crew had already successfully flown 20 missions over France and Germany. The July 4 flight was their 21st operation together. For Harold, on the other hand, the July 4 raid turned out to be his first and only combat flight. The crew reached and attacked their target (the V1 storage and assembly centre in the Saint Leu d’Esserent caves) and were shot down while returning home. Three members of the crew managed to bail out of the aircraft and two of these (including Jack Wainwright) parachuted to safety and were hidden undercover by the French Resistance. The other five (including Harold) died when the plane crashed and exploded in an orchard near the hamlet of Laversines, close to Beauvais. The remains from the crash site were buried in the Marissel military cemetery.

“Navigator (Harold’s job) was an extremely technical job. You had to be well-educated and pretty smart to do it,” Mike Wainwright explained to the Pioneer, adding that it was not uncommon for members of the Royal Canadian Air Force to be assigned to the British RAF. Diana Braathen, Harold’s niece, lives in Vancouver, and filled in more details about the family for the Pioneer. The family is originally from Norway, but Harold and most of his five siblings were born in Sweden. Harold’s youngest brother (Diana’s father) Richard, however, was born in the Invermere hospital. Their father Einar worked as a horticulturist in Windermere on the Dominion Experimental Farm. The eldest Braathen brother, Emil, tragically drowned in Lake Windermere in 1935 when he was 20. Emil’s gravesite is still in the Windermere cemetery.

Continued on page 25

Former Windermere resident Harold Braathen is buried in the Marissel French Military Cemetery in Beauvais in a gravesite shared with five other crew members of an RAF plane shot down over France on July 4, 1944.

Photo submitted

18

The Columbia Valley Pioneer

November 9, 2023

It is our duty to remember the fallen

By Jerry Meadows Royal Canadian Legion Br. 71 This year we celebrate a number of milestones in Canada’s history.

One hundred and fifty years ago on May 23, 1873, the North-West Mounted Police were created by an Act of Parliament. In 1904 King Edward VII awarded the title ‘Royal’ and they became the Royal North-West Mounted Police. In 1920, legislation was passed by the Borden government to change the name to Royal Cana-

We Will

Remember INVERMERE SENIORS ASSOCIATION

dian Mounted Police, and the Royal North-West Mounted Police and the Dominion Police were joined.

The new Royal Canadian Mounted Police were assigned federal policing in all of Canada. Today the RCMP have 658 detachments throughout the country.

Eighty years ago saw more than 93,000 Canadians serve in the Italian campaign during the Second World War. Nearly 6,000 died.

We also celebrate 75 years of peacekeeping duties around the world. Fifty years ago we were peacekeepers in Vietnam. More than 125,000 Canadian Armed Forces members and more than 4,000 RCMP and other police force members have served as peacekeepers. One hundred and thirty died.

This year also marks the 70th anniversary of the end of the Korean conflict. Over 26,000 Canadians served with more than 500 losing their lives.

And this year we saw the beginning of an era – with the Coronation of King Charles II. It is our duty to remember the fallen and the sacrifices they made. Remembrance Day began 105 years ago in 1918 when the First World War World ended on the

11th hour of the 11th day of the 11th month.

They shall grow not old, As we that are left grow old.

Age shall not weary them, Nor the years condemn.

At the going down of the sun and in the morning, WE WILL REMEMBER THEM. We must remember. Lest we forget. Lest we forget.

Lest We Forget

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Lest We Forget

November 9, 2023

The Columbia Valley Pioneer

19

Soldier serves in Forces and Marines

By Lyonel Doherty lyonel@aberdeenpublishing.com There’s nothing worse than boredom, but in Alan Clause’s case, it pointed him in the right direction as a restless teen.

“I got bored with high school at 17.

I asked my parents to give me their permission to enlist in the Canadian Forces, which they did.”

Born in Hamilton, Ontario in 1947, he grew up with a passion for the outdoors.

But he got antsy in secondary school and needed something more at his age. After his mom and dad let him join the army, he was sent to the infantry regiment called the Royal Canadian Regiment 2nd Battalion.

Clause spent six months in London, Ontario where he became an armoured personnel carrier operator for A company.

At the age of 18, he was sent to Soest, Germany for 30 months with the 4th Canadian Infantry Brigade. Then he became a gunner for an anti-tank platoon.

“It was a good education to see Europe,” Clause told the Pioneer.

In 1968 he was honourably released with a special service medal with a NATO bar, Duke of Edinburgh Brooch, Queen Elizabeth 11 Golden Jubilee medal, and a Nijmegen marching medal.

Boredom caught up with him again, so he joined the United States Marines in

1968.

“I got my wish as a heavy equipment operator; I built and repaired roads, loaded and unloaded convoys, built runways and helicopter pads, and did road sweeps in the mornings looking for booby traps.”

Clause served 17 months and seven days overseas in southeast Asia in Vietnam and Okinawa, and was honourably released as a sergeant in 1971.

His most memorable experience?

“The only thing I can remember when I arrived in Vietnam was the heat, the smell of the country, and the red dirt.

Oh, and when I flew to Dong Ha from Dang we came under small arms fire.

When we got out of the way of the cargo, which was let loose after we left the C-130 (Hercules), it never stopped, which we called ‘touch and go.’ We were in the middle of the runway looking for shelter when someone yelled ‘over here!’ Then we took off like scared rabbits.”

Clause said he received recognition for his service in the Marine Corps, including the Purple Heart (wounded in rocket and mortar attack), the National Defense Service Medal, the Vietnam Service Medal with four stars, the Vietnam Cross of Gallantry with Palm Medal, and the Meritorious Mast.

Recently, Clause was presented a Quilt of Valour in Invermere by representative Cindy Postnikoff.

Schedule of Events

Remembrance Day November 11th INVERMERE

Alan Clause in Royal Canadian Regiment battle dress.

He also served in the United States Marine Corps.

Photo submitted

WeWe Remember

Remember

the sacrifices made by all who serve our country.

Please take time to reflect on November 11.

EDGEWATER

10:30am

Parade forms outside legion General public please gather at Cenotaph Park

3:45pm

10:50am

Parade moves to Cenotaph Park

4:00pm

11:30am

Parade leaves Cenotaph Park

4:30pm

11:35am

Parade dismisses at Legion

4:40pm

11:45am

Open House Reception at Legion

4:50pm

CANAL FLATS 10:30am

Gathering at Cenotaph at Lion’s Park

11:45am

Reception at CF Civic Centre

Doug Clovechok, MLA Working for You in Columbia River-Revelstoke www.DougClovechok.ca

Remembrance Day – November 11th

20

The Columbia Valley Pioneer

November 9, 2023

Band honours Indigenous veterans

By Julia Magsombol Local Journalism Initiative julia@columbiavalleypioneer.com For years Indigenous war veterans were not recognized or honoured for their service, but Shuswap Band is making sure they get the acknowledgement they deserve.

Shuswap Band honoured Indigenous Veterans Day on November 8 in Shuswap Community Hall, starting with a welcome song. A moment of silence and an honour song followed.

"We never forget our veterans who sacrificed what

they had done to help in the wars and the accomplishments and to start the healing of truth and reconciliation, because a lot of the Aboriginal people did not, and were not recognized in being in the wars," said Clarissa Stevens, the Cultural/Family Liaison and Indian Registry Administrator of Shuswap Band.

Stevens explained that many Indigenous Peoples back in the war had never been acknowledged or honoured. She said even if they gave up their lives for their country, they were not recognized because they were Indigenous Peoples. One of them was her grandfather and other relatives.

"A lot of them were heroes. They did not honour them with the medal or the pin that they deserved because they were Indigenous — they didn't consider them good enough to be heroes like that," she pointed out.

And so on November 8 they were remembered, making the day very special.

"Pay respects to them and remember them. It's to recognize and acknowledge the Indigenous veterans in the past and present, and acknowledge their work in their efforts of being in the wars," Stevens said. She shared that her father would always honour his grandfather every day, but on this day, he would always wear a pin for him.

Shuswap Band says many Indigenous soldiers served in past wars but were never properly recognized or honoured. On Nov. 8 the Band did just that during a special ceremony.

Photo submitted

In Flanders fields the poppies blow Between the crosses, row on row, That mark our place; and in the sky The larks, still bravely singing, fly Scarce heard amid the guns below.

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The Columbia Valley Pioneer

21

First Nations, Inuit and Métis of Canada have a long and proud tradition of military service. According to the Government of Canada, more than 4,000 First Nations served during the First World War. By the end of 1945 in the Second World War, more than 3,000 Indigenous people served their country.

Photo submitted

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22

The Columbia Valley Pioneer

November 9, 2023

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DON’T LOSE YOUR LOCAL NEWS E

, August 10

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I T C E P S PER

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Banners throughout Invermere pay tribute to war veterans who made the ultimate sacrifice for our freedoms.

Photo by Syd Danis

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2023

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Kelsey Van Raay captures this beautiful photo of Lake Windermere during a cold morning when ice and mist converge to create a stunning image of the local environment.

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24

The Columbia Valley Pioneer

P IONEER C LASSIFIEDS

November 9, 2023

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

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

Narcotics Anonymous Open Meeting Mondays 7 p.m. at the BC Service Building, South End. 624-4th St. Invermere.

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.

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.

Kamphuis, Prof. Dr. Bill (Jan Willem) With heavy hearts we announce the passing of Prof. Dr. Bill (Jan Willem) Kamphuis on Monday, October 30, 2023. He is survived and very much missed by the family that he loved and made laugh - wife Nelly, daughters Vicki (Keith) and Melanie (Robin), his own cousins as well as the large extended family on his wife’s side.

Bill was a brilliant, generous and loving man, with an exuberant sense of humour. He was a leader and a mentor to his family, church, university students and the international Coastal Engineering community. His other passions were sailing, skiing and music, including playing organ at church. We will all miss Bill terribly, and cherish the great times we had with him. Bill was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s in September 2020.

Ultimately he was taken from us after a thankfully short struggle with cancer.

A private burial service was held on Friday, November 3. A visitation was held on Saturday, November 4 from 2-4 at James Reid Funeral Home (1900 John Counter Blvd., Kingston). The Celebration of Life will be at the First Christian Reformed Church, (310 Kingscourt Ave, Kingston, ON) on Thursday, November 23 at 11 am. Donations in Bill’s name will be gratefully received by First CRC, attention: organ fund.

CHEERS WITHOUT TEARS

CHEERS WITHOUT TEARS

Cheers to Tasha Shellborn for your kindness and thoughtfulness. How did you know Gerbers are one of my favorite owers? You brightened my day!

Cheers to the Invermere District Hospital Nurses for all your kindness to the old lady waiting for her grandson in the ER. Keep up the great work!

Cheers to Cathy and Dave C. for keeping me in mind when you are ready to sell your puzzles.

You two are awesome!

Cheers to Dina at Invermere McDonald's. You are always smiling and remember my name each time I am there.

Cheers to your excellent customer service skills!

Cheers to Kevin at The Brick. You found the best deal on a mattress. I appreciate the great customer service. Happy customer right here!

AUCTIONS

Sentinel Storage Located at:

BUSINESS SERVICES

BUSINESS SERVICES

FOR SALE - MISC

B.B.'s Home & Design Services HONDA SNOW BLOWER THE HEARTFELT COMPANION: Renovations, Masonry & Services for Seniors Model # HSS1332; 32 inch Handyman Services, Blinds, Since 2014 we've provided intake, crawler tracks, light use, Housechecks, eavestrough/ kind and compassionate yard cleaning/dumps runs very good condition. non-medical care, 250-688-2897 New price around $5,000 transportation to Cranbrook, GET-ER-DONE selling for $1,400.00. overnight care, meal prep, HANDYMAN grocery shopping and more.

Phone: 250.341.3540 Landscaping,Asphalt Pads, Excellent local references. email: prapro@shaw.ca Christmas Lights Set Up, 250-341-5683 This unit will move a lot of General Contracting,Cleaning Heartfeltcompanionservices.com Gutters,House Checks. snow.

Call Ryan 604-346-5087

1508 Hwy 93/95 Windermere BC V0B 2L1 Hereby gives notice under the Warehouseman’s Liens Act of auction of a

2006 Citation 5th Wheel #J13, S. Mooney Auction to be held on www.ibid4storage.com on Wednesday Nov.15, 2023.

Terms are debit or credit only.

Cash deposit required. See website for terms and conditions.

CHEERS! To Michele,Alice and Mikelle for shovelling the driveway-Love you sisters.

CHEERS CHEERS

A Huge Cheers to Columbia Valley Sewer & Drain for donating Edgewater Elementary School’s November Hot Lunch!

We appreciate your generous support to our Schools program!”

Cheers to Arnold Malone for yet another brilliantly written and insightful article. "It's the people problem, folks". We wish you were a syndicated columnist so the World could read, hear and listen to the wisdom and act.

HELP WANTED

Ravenhead Fabrication Services is seeking an experienced Metal Fabricator/Welder to join our team. Please see our posting on Indeed.com, or email resume to jobs@ravenheadfab.ca The Columbia Valley

PIONEER NEWSPAPER

SERVING THE COLUMBIA VALLEY ONLINE OR IN PRINT Call Jamie at 250-341-6299 ext 103 to discuss your advertising needs.

Visit our website at columbiavalleypioneer.com

PLEASE RECYCLE THIS NEWSPAPER

November 9, 2023

The Columbia Valley Pioneer

HELP WANTED

Report

HELP WANTED

Eagle-Eye Tours The Village of Canal Flats is a Genuine Lifestyle community. Come join us and be a part of all the good things happening in the village!

Arena Operator We are seeking a highly skilled and versatile individual to join our team as an Arena Operator with additional responsibilities in Parks and Recreation. This position offers an exciting opportunity to support and maintain our arena facilities while also contributing to the development and management of various recreational programs in our community.

Reporting to the Parks and Recreation Manager, the arena operator will support the day-to-day operations of the arena, ensuring smooth functioning of all facilities, equipment, and systems which includes: • Perform routine inspections and maintenance tasks to ensure the arena meets safety standards and remains in optimal condition.

• Coordinate with maintenance staff to address any repairs, renovations, or upgrades required for the arena facilities.

• Manage the scheduling and allocation of arena resources, including ice time, equipment, and staff, to meet the needs of various user groups.

• Collaborate with event organizers to coordinate logistics for sports competitions, and other special events hosted at the arena.

• Support park maintenance activities, including landscaping, trail maintenance, and playground inspections, as needed.

Valid driver’s license and ability to operate small vehicles or equipment as needed.

As an arena operator with additional responsibilities in Parks and Recreation, you will play a crucial role in ensuring the smooth operation of our arena facilities while also contributing to the overall enhancement of recreational opportunities within our community. This position offers a dynamic and diverse work environment, providing opportunities for personal and professional growth.

25

Client Services & Logistics Eagle-Eye Tours is based in Windermere, BC and is Canada’s largest birding tour operator, offering 60+ tours worldwide each year. To continue delivering exceptional experiences for our clients, we need someone who can handle client correspondence and help pull these tours off without a hitch. This is a long-term position where we can discuss your preferred number of hours/week (30-40). You will have a variety of tasks to keep you busy from researching hotels in Australia to helping clients going to the Arctic. This job requires that you can manage multiple projects simultaneously.

Core responsibilities include: · Client correspondence (inquiries, invoicing, etc.) · Logistics (planning tours, booking hotels, vehicles and flights) Requirements include: · Strong computer skills · Ability to work independently · Excellent customer service skills · Excellent communication skills (written & oral) · Rigorous attention to detail and strong organizational skills · Ability to manage competing priorities · An interest in travel We offer a competitive wage, flexibility, interesting work, and a collegial positive work environment. We anticipate work beginning as soon as you are available.

Please submit your resume and a brief story about a personal travel experience by 5 pm on Nov 20th to Cam via eagle-eye.com/careers.

Ph: 250-342-8640.

Columbia Valley Pioneer staff The latest Ombudsperson quarterly report to the Regional District of East Kootenay (RDEK) highlights a number of complaints that were investigated and subsequently “closed” by the provincial office.

Some of the more common complaint topics included bylaw enforcement (44 cases - 29 per cent), disagreement with decisions (80 cases - 38 per cent), process or procedure (43 cases - 20 per cent), and zoning development (25 cases - 17 per cent).

Other topics were: council member conduct (including conflict of interest), fees and charges, services (garbage, sewer and water), accessibility, administrative error, communication, discrimination, COVID-19, labour relations, appeal process, and treatment by staff.

The full description and job qualifications can be found at www.canalflats.ca This is a full-time position. The Village of Canal Flats offers a competitive salary with benefits and provides opportunities for professional development through additional classes and training.

To apply for the position, please submit a comprehensive resume and cover letter to Mathieu Fournier, arena@canalflats.ca P.O. Box 159, 8866 Grainger Road, Canal Flats, BC, V0B 1B0 Phone: 250-349-5462 Fax: 250-349-5460 Email: village@canalflats.ca

NOW HIRING! Permanent full-time position available immediately on our amazing Client Experience Team.

We are looking for someone energetic, detail orientated, positive, social, creative and who can work efficiently prioritizing tasks.

If you value a work environment that is fun, professional and have a genuine passion for helping people and putting smiles on faces, then this is the perfect position for you!

The position does require office administration responsibilities so experience in a clinic setting is required. MOA is an asset but not mandatory.

We take pride in our excellent customer service, strong teamwork, hearing expertise!

Interested? Please email resumes to krista@hearingloss.ca We can’t wait to have you on board!

Harold remembered Continued from page 17 Harold was in fact one of three Braathen brothers to enlist in the Second World War. It was noteworthy enough that the Vancouver Province ran a news story with the headline “B.C. Swedish Family Sends Three Sons to Battle Nazis’.

Hans Braathen was, like Harold, in the air force. Hans too ended up being shot down, in Normandy during D-Day. But Hans survived his crash, unlike Harold.

Nels Braathen served and was wounded with an anti-tank unit in the Netherlands.

When Nels later died, after the war, he too was buried in the Windermere cemetery.

The Braathen family moved to Prince George at some point in the 1940s (Diana is not entirely sure when) where Einar had another horticultural job. From there, the family slowly scattered across Canada, with some living in northwest B.C., some in Calgary, some in Ontario, and some in other parts of the country. Many Braathens died relatively young, outlined Diana, and gradually the various branches of the family began to lose touch with each other. But thanks to digital technology, that has changed.

Diana was amazed and delighted, for instance, to learn that her Uncle Harold is honoured as part of the Invermere banner program. And very grateful to have been able to connect with Mike Wainwright through his website, to find out

more about that fateful flight on July 4, 1944, and to fill in Harold’s background for Mike.

In 2006, Diana visited the Columbia Valley with her dad and some cousins. “The family home is still standing in Windermere, so we saw that,” she explained. It’s an old log house facing the lake, not far from the cemetery. They found some old historical photos in the Windermere Valley Museum showing a very young Hans Braathen as a student at Windermere elementary school.

“It is very interesting to see the family come to life again, in some ways, after all these years,” said Diana.

In a final twist to the story, Harold along with the five other crew members who perished in Laversines will soon be honoured with a new memorial, created by a French Second World War research group wishing to commemorate the crash.

The plan is for the memorial to be unveiled this coming summer, on July 6 — almost 80 years exactly since the crash happened.

“Laversines is a very small village. A plane being shot down there would’ve been a major event in the history of the village. A lot of the old people there still remember it,” Mike Wainwright told the Pioneer. “The idea is to honour them and to pay respect to the enormity of what they did.”

26

The Columbia Valley Pioneer

November 9, 2023

Kat Hartwig receives conservation award

Submitted by Kootenay Conservation Program The Kootenay Conservation Program announced the recipients of its annual Conservation Leadership Awards last month as part of the 2023 ‘KCP Fall Gathering: Kootenay Connect Summit’ which was held in Cranbrook. For the East Kootenay the 2023 award recipient is Kat Hartwig, who was recognized for her leadership with Living Lakes Canada.

Congratulations to Hartwig, founder and Executive Director of Living Lakes Canada. In her former position as part of the leadership team for Wildsight, Kat played a key role in many large-scale, environmental conservation initiatives in the East Kootenay – from the campaign to fight the proposed ski resort for Jumbo Valley (a key grizzly bear and wildlife corridor located in the Purcell Mountain Range), to the removal of 300 cars that historically had been dumped into the Wilmer wetlands, to helping the Columbia Wetlands obtain its international RAMSAR Designation.

Since 2010, she has brought that same passion to her role with Living Lakes Canada, and has spearheaded the development of numerous Kootenay-wide water stewardship programs, including

a community-based lake stewardship model that led to the development of the Lake Windermere Ambassadors; the East Kootenay Integrated Lakes Management Partnership (EKILMP); the Columbia Basin Foreshore Inventory and Mapping for Aquatic Species at Risk Project; the Columbia Basin Groundwater Monitoring Program; the open source Columbia Basin Water Hub database; and the Columbia Basin Water Monitoring Framework project that’s helping track and understand climate impacts on the region’s freshwater sources.

Hartwig has tirelessly advocated for the inclusion of Indigenous voices in water management and valuing Indigenous knowledge in water policy and science.

She’s also an empowering role model for young people and women in the water sector, with a strong desire to empower youth to make a meaningful contribution towards addressing the climate and biodiversity crisis facing their generation.

Her passion has led her to be recognized with multiple awards and as someone who ‘gets things done’ in Canada’s water world. Her dedication to fostering partnerships has led to countless collaborations, influenced the highest level of government policy, and advanced conservation for the Kootenays and beyond.

Kat Hartwig is the 2023 recipient of the East Kootenay Conservation Leadership Award from the Kootenay Conservation Program. She received a framed photograph of the Columbia Wetlands by Pat Morrow.

Photo submitted

TER CAR CARE WINTER CAR CARE WINTER CAR CA

Don’t get stranded

Columbia Valley Pioneer staff

Automotive Repair • Tire Sales & Repairs You can rely on K5 Mechanical, an Integra Tire Centre, to give you good advice and the highest levels of service. Staff have the knowledge and experience to do it right and keep you safe on the road, and you will always be served efficiently, courteously and with integrity.

3 - 140 Industrial Rd #2, Invermere, B.C. • 250-342-9316 Monday to Friday: 8 a.m. - 5:30 p.m. Saturday with appointment

Admit it, some of you are trying to squeeze another season out of your winter tires despite them looking a little “smooth” around the edges. Is it worth the risk to you and your family? Better to be safe than sorry.

Invest in good quality tires so you are ready for anything that winter throws at you. Besides, it’s the law in many provinces including B.C. The fact is the rubber in winter tires is more flexible in cold temperatures unlike all-season tires that don’t grip as well in snow and ice.

The following are winter car care tips from the Canadian Automobile Association: • Check your tire pressure more regularly in winter since it tends to go down in cold weather.

• Check your battery for signs of corrosion. Also look at your spark plugs, wires, and distributor cap to rule out anything faulty. You don’t want to break down in the middle of a snow storm.

• Ensure that your brakes are up to snuff. If you notice any change in how they feel or sound, get them serviced before a patch of ice sends you into the ditch. Remember, when you pass cars in the ditch you always say to yourself, “I’m glad that’s not me.”

• Check the condition of your wiper

blades so they can withstand winter. You gotta’ hate when you start seeing streaks on your windshield where the wipers are not properly contacting the glass.

• Make sure your fluids are topped up, and ensure your coolant meets the requirements of local temperatures. Replace if it has been more than two years since your last flush.

• Check radiator hoses and drive belts for cracks and leaks. Also test the strength and level of your anti-freeze.

• Consider using a block heater to reduce engine stress in winter.

• Keep your fuel tank at least half full to reduce the build-up of condensation that can freeze and stop fuel from reaching your engine.

• Keep an emergency kit in your vehicle just in case. Items can include booster cables, shovel, flashlight, first aid supplies, and a blanket.

Photo by trendobjects/Getty

November 9, 2023

Triumph beyond guns, bombs Fresh old ideas

By Arnold Malone Pioneer Columnist Standing proud before a backdrop of flowers on their home lawn, surrounded by trees that allowed ribbons of sunlight, stood a vibrant young man.

He was dressed in uniform complete with a side cap. He had signed up for the Royal Canadian Air Force and was about to go to war in the defence of Europe, liberty and freedom.

The Second World War was in the midst of its awful activity. Young men and women from across Canada were called upon to stop the invasion of Europe. There was a great conflict in the heart of a mother who, with pride, knew that her son was about to defend a worthy value. It was also a gripping fear that when this day was over and her boy left for service there was no certainty that he would ever be seen again.

The young man was my cousin. His family lived in a small village of 150 people. His dad owned the general store and post office.

In homes across Canada during those days the radio was our window to the war. Each day the noon news brought reports on our progress and our set-backs. It reported the numbers missing in action and those confirmed dead.

At noon we ate our meal without making the slightest sound while the news was broadcast. Any report of a missing Canadian plane was a cause for anxiety.

Then one day in 1943 our relatives got the awful telegram. Their son was missing in action. A few days later there was a second telegram — he was confirmed dead.

I was five years old at his funeral and I did not understand why my cousin was not present for his event or why

his mother was sobbing uncontrollably.

In 2019 Susan and I toured some war cemeteries in the Netherlands, Germany and France. The gigantic monument near Arras, France is a First World War memorial to our success in capturing Vimy Ridge at a cost of 3,600 Canadian lives along with 7,000 wounded after the French and British armies failed to remove the entrenched Germans.

In Germany we toured a Canadian war cemetery that was about the size of two city blocks. Row after row of unending headstones each scripted with a name and a date of death.

Each headstone was a marker for a mother’s grief, a father’s pain and a family’s empty chair.

We walked beside the graves with whispered speech.

Even amoung others we were utterly alone. Silence rang in our ears. This immaculate area of patterned headstones marked the price of freedom. So many mothers – so many families – cried the pain of reality. Families by the thousands aching with emptiness. Just unending grief. In that cemetery we found my cousin’s grave. On his headstone was his name along with the words, “died March 5th, 1943 an Officer of the Royal Canadian Air Force; age 23.”

Like intruders we walked in this impeccable setting.

Headstones behind us, beside us and without sense they diminished to a far-off boundary. On the tombstones were the names of our youth. Ages inscribed: 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23. Some graves were grouped with five or six headstones clustered together. The aircraft was known but the deceased were not recognized. Imagine back home those worried families and their endless waiting.

That day, we were in just one Canadian cemetery; across Europe there are 62. Victory does not assure freedom. Freedom must be defended generation after generation. Through responsible caring for one another and with our choice to abide by rules may we learn to live in communion. May our thoughtful determination allow us to triumph beyond guns and bombs.

So, this question arises, “If that was the sacrifice, then what now is our responsibility?”

The Columbia Valley Pioneer

27

Columbia Valley

Churches LAKE WINDERMERE ALLIANCE CHURCH While you are with us, you are always welcome to join us.

Sunday at 10:30 am 326 10th Avenue, Invermere 250-342-9535 | www.lwac.ca

WINDERMERE VALLEY SHARED MINISTRY ANGLICAN-UNITED Minister: Brent Woodard Sundays at 10:30 am, in-person or on Zoom.

For the Zoom link, please visit our website at wvsm.ca.

110 - 7th Ave. in Invermere.

VALLEY CHRISTIAN ASSEMBLY Pastor: Justin Furse Sunday 10 a.m. Worship Service 4814 Highway Drive, Windermere 250-342-9511 | www.vcachurch.net

ROMAN CATHOLIC CHURCH St. Anthony’s, Canal Flats: Saturday, 4 pm Canadian Martyrs’, Invermere: Saturday 5 pm, Sunday 9 am St. Joseph’s, Radium: Sunday 11 am Father Francis Dela Cruz | 712 -12th Ave., Invermere 250-342-6167

ST. PETER’S LUTHERAN CHURCH Sunday 1:30 p.m. Worship Service at Valley Christian 4814 Highway Drive, Windermere lutheranstpeter@gmail.com

RADIUM CHRISTIAN FELLOWSHIP Sunday 10 a.m. Worship service Pastor Wayne and Linda Frater | 250-342-6633 #4, 7553 Main St. Radium | 250-347-9937

CHURCH OF JESUS CHRIST OF LATTER-DAY SAINTS Worship Service, Sunday, 10 a.m.

Relief Society, 11:15 a.m.

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

CHURCH OF CHRIST (Iglesia ni Cristo) Worship Service: Sunday 9 a.m., Thursday 7:45 p.m.

Chamber of Commerce (Lions Hall) For inquiries: 250-688-1643 250-270-2208 or 250-688-0629 For more info about the church, you can Google online at incmedia.org or pasugo.com.ph

The five headstones (forefront) would be the crew from a bombing plane that was shot down during the Second World War. Photo by Arnold Malone

PLEASE RECYCLE THIS NEWSPAPER

28

The Columbia Valley Pioneer

November 9, 2023

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