Vol. 20/Issue 44
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The Columbia Valley
November 2, 2023
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Serving the Upper Columbia Valley including Akisq’nuk and Shuswap First Nations, Spillimacheen, Brisco, Edgewater, Radium, Invermere, Windermere, Fairmont and Canal Flats
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ALL FALL DOWN
Leaves dot the autumn landscape like multi-coloured checkerboards in the Columbia Valley. Soon, the snow will be a permanent fixture.
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The Columbia Valley Pioneer
Bruno’s Plumbing Service Mike Sylvestre 250.342.5105 brunosplumbing@shaw.ca
November 2, 2023
VALLEY VIEWS
Serving The Columbia Valley
Auto Glass Replacement & Chip Repair Shower Doors | Sealed Units | Deck & Hand Railings
250-342-3659
UPCOMING EVENTS Ser
vin g th
e Co lumbia Va
Conversation on Climate Screening
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with author of Fire Weather John Vaillant Nov. 8th 7:30 pm With Wildsight Invermere. All welcome invermere.bc.libraries.coop RO
S SR OAD S
C
MA
RKET
These are just a few of the
Halloween Colouring Contest
GREAT GAS GIVEAWAY
While the term “food security” may be new to some, old barns like this one on Hewitt Road in Edgewater show that local food security infrastructure is not new at all. Meanwhile, this photographer goes paddleboarding with a shovel? Digging up old tires that people have thrown in the river. Sad but true.
Karin Binder
Photos by Ryan Watmough
WINNERS
This week’s winner is… Draws will continue through 2023
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Call Jamie at 250-341-6299 ext 103 to discuss your advertising needs. Visit our website at: www.columbiavalleypioneer.com
TRACEY HALLADAY Kimberly Olson KARSEN SEEL Shane Haltman
OCT 4 - OCT 28
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PYNELOGS Cultural Cen tre
November 2, 2023
The Columbia Valley Pioneer
VALLEY NEWS
3
Fire SPU set for upgrade By Steve Hubrecht steve@columbiavalleypioneer.com The Invermere fire department’s sprinkler protection unit (SPU) proved a boon to provincial wildland firefighters this past summer. The fire department recently appeared before Invermere council seeking funding to help improve the SPU so that if the need for it arises again, the device is ready to go. The wildland firefighting crews were in the Columbia Valley battling a trio of large wildfires (collectively known as the Horsethief Complex) that threatened the valley and left many residents either under evacuation order or evacuation alert. The crews specifically used the Invermere SPU on two of these three fires — the Horsethief Creek fire that burned on the northern slope of Mount Bruce and prompted the evacuation of parts of Toby Benches, and the Yearling Creek fire, which burned on the southern edge of Kootenay National Park and forced the closure of Nipika Mountain Resort. Invermere Fire Chief Jason Roe and Deputy Chief Colin Matheson were at the Tuesday, Oct. 24 council meeting, outlining that the Invermere fire department’s SPU is functional, but is, as Matheson explained, “only partially complete” and that it needs significant upgrades to meet provincial standards. The pair sought council authorization to spend $115,000 to finish fully tricking out the SPU. Matheson noted that the Invermere fire department made $80,000 last summer by leasing out the SPU to wildland firefighters, and said the remaining $35,000 could come from the fire department’s equipment and machinery reserve, which has a balance of $494,821. SPUs are like trailers equipped with sprinklers, hoses
and pumps. Fire crews use them in advance of approaching wildfires to help protect homes and other structures. The Invermere SPU, though only partially complete, was credited with saving multiple local structures in the Horsethief Creek drainage during the 2023 wildfire season, Matheson told council. “They are a valuable tool in fighting wildfires, helping to create a defensible space around properties, and reducing the risk of catastrophic damage,” he said. Matheson told council the fire department wants to make the upgrades this fall while the required equipment is still in stock. “There are supply chain delays. We hope to put in the order very soon if we can,” said Matheson, adding this will help ensure the trailer is set should it be needed again during the 2024 wildfire season. What will the upgrades entail? “It’s more hoses and pumps, hoses and sprinklers, and then there are some other bells and whistles,” Matheson told the Pioneer after the meeting. More specifically the SPU needs 14 different new pumps (for a total cost of $25,800); assorted tools for a pump tool kit ($9,700), 105 new sprinklers ($6,500), 224 new hoses ($21,500), 169 water thieves ($9,700), 73 adapters ($3,900), four bladders ($6,200), 21 chainsaws ($4,800), and assorted other tools ($4,000). Invermere council quickly and unanimously agreed to authorize the funding to upgrade the SPU.
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Invermere council has unanimously supported a request for funding to help the fire department improve its sprinkler protection unit. Photo submitted
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The Columbia Valley Pioneer
4
November 2, 2023
SECURITY Est. 2005
• • • •
RCMP Report
Uniformed Guards Mobile Patrol Alarm Response Property Checks
www.valleyhawk.com Licensed & Insured
250-688-HAWK
Invermere & Surrounding Areas
Sgt. Ed deJong Columbia Valley RCMP
Annual General Meeting
Saturday, November 18, 2023 | 9:30-11:30 am Invermere Lion’s Hall/Columbia Valley Chamber of Commerce - Light refreshments served -
ALL WELCOME! For more information contact wingsovertherockies@gmail.com
Gutter Cleaning and...
On October 24 the Columbia Valley RCMP were travelling Hwy 93/95 between Invermere and Radium when they came across a collision in the Dry Gulch area. A tractor trailer had T-boned a pickup with the driver of the pickup being ejected and the passenger trapped in the vehicle. Columbia Valley firefighters and EHS attended, using the Jaws of Life to cut out the passenger. Both of the injured parties were flown to outside hospitals with significant injuries. The investigation revealed the pickup pulled out in front of the tractor trailer, giving no time for the driver of the tractor unit to make evasive manoeuvres. The driver of the pickup had failed to clear the snow from his driver’s side window, which likely prevented him from seeing the approaching tractor trailer. On October 25 the Columbia Valley RCMP responded to a suicidal male. Upon arrival, members en-
countered a male with a large knife and bear spray, who was threatening to spray the members and use the knife on himself. Members were able to de-escalate the situation and safely take the male into custody, transferring him to the hospital to speak with a doctor. The members involved showed their ability to professionally, compassionately, and safely deal with a volatile situation, resulting in a person in crisis obtaining the help they needed. On the morning of October 27, police responded to multiple collisions between Dry Gulch and Edgewater. The roads in this area were extremely slippery due to black ice, causing multiple vehicles to go off road in various locations. There was also a multi-vehicle collision involving tractor trailers and a bus. Fortunately, there were no serious injuries. This past week has provided the valley with the first blast of sustained winter weather. Please check road conditions at www.DriveBC.ca prior to leaving on a trip and ensure you have the proper winter tires and a winter survival kit in your vehicle. Always give yourself extra time to reach your destination safely.
Reader speaks out on speeding
FREE E QUOT
The following letter is addressed to Kootenay-Columbia MP Rob Morrison. Could you please tell me why there is absolutely no RCMP speed enforcement of trucks on Highway 95? These people set their own speed limits and write their own laws and no one cares. They massacre the wildlife and kill/maim/destroy the lives of poor unsuspecting motorists with complete impunity. Then they get in their trucks and drive off to do it again and again and again. I have lived here 25 years and have never seen a truck
For all your Christmas light needs
403-510-4098 justcallryan@aol.com
pulled over for speeding. This morning the highway was closed at Edgewater again because of trucks and their uncontrolled, disgusting speeds. I am terrified to drive that highway because you and the RCMP do not protect your constituents from these care-about-nothing (but themselves) motorists. A speed camera would be a godsend in this valley. Would you please tell me why trucks are allowed to write their own traffic laws without repercussion?
PLEASE RECYCLE THIS NEWSPAPER
Gord Crawford, Edgewater
An Edgewater resident is calling for more speed enforcement for big trucks on Highway 95. Photo by vitpho/Getty
New Winter menu coming November 2023
NEW WINTER MENU COMING NOVEMBER 2023
OPEN FOR DINNER 7 DAYS A WEEK STARTING NOVEMBER 1st!
November 2, 2023
The Columbia Valley Pioneer
5
Well-known ski racing enthusiast Bruce Hamstead has been named volunteer of the year for Area F. He is shown here with Area F director Susan Clovechok from the Regional District of East Kootenay. Photo submitted
Recycling questions? BC RECYCLING HOTLINE 604-732-9253 1-800-667-4321 RECYCLING COUNCIL OF B.C. MEMBER
ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING Thursday, November 9, 2023 at 10am The AGM will be held at Panorama Mountain Resort and virtually. Please email: Panorama.Foundation@panoramaresort.com for meeting information or for funding applications.
Hamstead named VOTY By Steve Hubrecht steve@columbiavalleypioneer.com Panorama Mountain Resort resident Bruce Hamstead has been named Regional District of East Kootenay (RDEK) Area F volunteer of the year (VOTY) Hamstead earned the accolade for his decades of volunteering with Panorama’s ski racing program and with the Panorama Subdivision Owners Association. He was formally recognized during an Area F town hall meeting in Windermere on Monday, Oct. 23. He told the Pioneer the award was unexpected. “My reaction was, number one, surprise. And, number two, humbled,” said Hamstead. “When you think of all the people who are volunteers helping the valley, from firefighters to the Health Care Auxiliary Society, and how much they do, well, how it is that I am being grouped with them is a bit of a mystery to me, and it is certainly humbling.” Hamstead first came to the Columbia Valley more than 55 years ago, when he bought a home at Panorama in 1967. Not long after arriving here, he started volunteering with Panorama’s youth ski racing program. He became a national and international level ski racing coach, was a delegate for Canadian groups and global ski conferences, and has been acknowledged in particular for his efforts to help improve the quality, performance and reliability of the safety netting used in ski races. Hamstead also was deputy chairman of the organizing committee when Panorama recently hosted the World Junior Alpine Ski Championships. He told the Pioneer that skiing has always appealed to him because he loves “just being out in the mountains.” Hamstead explained he’s been very lucky to be able to
ski around the world and “all over, the people who you meet in the mountains, who you meet skiing, tend to be interesting, free-thinking people. It’s a wonderful sport in that way.” The start structure for races at Panorama — the Hammer Hut — was dedicated in Hamstead’s name several years ago. Hamstead served as president of the Panorama Subdivision Owners Association for years, a role in which he interacted with provincial agencies and helped provide services to the resort community. Asked about that role, Hamstead was modest, trying to pass off his volunteer dedication as “self interest” since the services he was working to help provide were ones that he benefited from as a Panorama homeowner. He did concede, however, that even if started from self-interest “it did become more inclusive, trying to make sure the interests of the resort at Panorama were looked after, dealing with the highways department and water rights boards and things like that.” In a speech at the Windermere town hall meeting, RDEK Area F director Susan Clovechok said Hamstead has worked to ensure the growth and sustainability of Panorama’s ski racing program, and that “he was always at the forefront, ensuring Panorama was a venue that enjoyed global acclaim.” Clovechok continued that “Bruce has volunteered countless hours that have benefited and will benefit young athletes from our communities, his neighbourhood and the tourism sector for many years to come.” She also passed on comments from Panorama Mountain Resort chief executive officer Steve Paccagnan, who described Bruce as “the heart and soul of our local community” and that “his selflessness shines through in the countless hours he dedicates to helping others.”
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
The Columbia Valley Pioneer
6
PERSPECTIVE
November 2, 2023
Kids come first
Along with the three Rs, school districts have seemingly added another responsibility to their mandates – feeding hungry students. Breakfast programs, lunch programs and free snacks are now commonplace in our schools where a number of children arrive every day without proper nutrition. Pushing the rewind button to our hallowed halls of yesteryear, there was not a free muffin to be found in school, unless a friend or a sympathetic teacher handed it over. Some kids brought in mini-smorgasbords in their lunch boxes while others came to class with merely an apple or a couple of cookies, if that. These were the kids who were labelled poor and sadly carried around that stigma like a tire around their neck. Many people can remember taking a bologna sandwich to school, only to take two bites and throw it in the nearest garbage can. Then they wolfed down their cream-filled Half Moons and Twinkies like there was no tomorrow, later terrified under the dentist’s drill held by an old guy who looked like Peter Cushing from Hammer Films. Times have obviously changed, and for the better. Over the years educators have noted students coming to school with empty stomachs. In fact, many showed up without even consuming a piece of toast for breakfast, yet they were still expected to learn. Fortunately, after seeing the writing on the wall, community groups (volunteers) and schools pooled their resources and established food programs, starting with fruit and muffin days, and eventually expanding to offer more healthy choices. These volunteers and school officials must be commended for doing all they can to address this problem, which is everyone’s responsibility. The sentiment: it takes a whole community to raise a child is so true. We are really “Feeding Futures” here, as the name of the food program implies. Another initiative that deserves high praise is the “Mental Health in Schools” program. Many parents can relate to having a child struggling with high anxiety these days; it’s quite common now compared to growing up in the 1970s and 80s when stress wasn’t a big issue. Back then many kids were told to “grow up” or “don’t be such a wimp” when they expressed any type of worry. And when they were bullied, their fathers told them to fight back, which is not the politically correct advice today. Thanks to modern times, and social media pressures, anxiety and depression among youth have hit disturbing levels. More students are in need of mental health support than ever, and it is paramount that schools confront this head-on. Parents don’t often have the expertise to deal with this problem, which eats them up inside when they see their children suffering. Kudos to the Ministry of Education and the Rocky Mountain School District for taking the reins on these crucial programs for the well-being of our kids’ future. Lyonel Doherty, editor
From left, Ted Fuller and David Walker take a walk on the shores of Lake Windermere (looking northeast) in 1940. Photo provided by the Windermere and District Historical Society
STR policy is problematic The RDEK recently approved the Short Term Rental (STR) Temporary Use Permit (TUP) Policy and is now accepting applications. It is problematic due to the following: • The lack of long-term rental housing was not adequately addressed despite the RDEK Housing Needs Assessment (Nov/2021) recommending actions including limiting where STRs are permitted in high tourist areas and requiring owners to be on-site when a STR operates. • To operate legally, STR owners in residential areas must now apply for a STR Temporary Use Permit (TUP). These are not required in commercial and tourist accommodation areas as they are permitted in these zones. • There is a two-tiered STR TUP application process. If an operator complies with STR TUP Policy regulations and pays a $1,000 fee, they can apply for a Delegated TUP and staff will make a decision to approve or refuse it. If an operator does not meet the STR TUP Policy regulations, they can pay $2,000 and apply for a Non-Delegated TUP. The RDEK board then reviews the application and will approve/refuse the STR based on criteria yet to be communicated to the public. • STR operators are required to post contact information for a person who will be available 24/7 to address issues during a STR rental. This will be posted inside the unit and only sent to properties 25m (82ft) from the STR. This notification is not far enough as noise, lighting, smoke, etc. travel much farther than 25m (82ft). • Outdoor hot tubs, fire pits, swimming pools are permitted. While applicants must describe measures to mitigate possible guest misbehaviour, there is no provi-
sion to ensure operators take the action indicated on their application. • The STR TUP Policy was approved and applications accepted prior to an enforcement strategy being developed. It is still unclear how non-compliance and enforcement of the policy will be dealt with effectively. • Up to 10 persons are permitted per Delegated STR. There is no requirement to provide the number of legal bedrooms and how many beds/guests each bedroom will accommodate. • Parking requirements are inadequate. In addition to minimum zoning and bylaw requirements, the following off-street parking spaces are required: STRs with a maximum guest occupancy of 1-4 guests must provide one space, 5-8 guests; two spaces and 9-10 guests; three spaces. The province just passed the Short Term Rentals Accommodations Act to return units to the long-term rental market. It requires STRs be located in a principal residence plus one secondary suite or accessory dwelling unit. Unfortunately the Act only applies to communities with over 10,000 residents. This does not address the housing shortage in RDEK‘s Area F. However, municipalities under 10,000 residents can ask the province to extend the requirements to their community. If you have concerns with the STR TUP Policy and its impact on your neighbourhood, contact all 15 RDEK board of directors at 1-888-478-7335 or https://www. rdek.bc.ca/about/board_of_directors/ Colleen Roberts, Chair Committee for an Equitable RDEK STR Policy
The Columbia Valley
CANADIAN COMMUNITY NEWSPAPER AWARD 2013
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is independently owned and operated, published weekly by Robert W. Doull, President and Publisher, Misko Publishing Limited Partnership. Box 868, #8, 1008 - 8th Ave., Invermere, B.C. V0A 1K0 Phone: 250-341-6299 | Toll Free: 866-496-8047 info@columbiavalleypioneer.com | www.columbiavalleypioneer.com
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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.
November 2, 2023
The Columbia Valley Pioneer
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School district focuses on mental health
By Lyonel Doherty lyonel@aberdeenpublishing.com Rocky Mountain School District No. 6 is implementing a strategy to protect the mental well-being of students and staff. On October 10 the board reviewed a report by Director of Instruction Sharon Collin, who updated trustees on the district’s ‘Mental Health in Schools’ plan. She noted that staff continue to be concerned about data reported by the Ministry of Education’s Student Learning Survey as well as other data describing the mental and physical state of students. According to the Canadian Institute for Health Information (CIHI), nearly one in four hospitalizations for children and youth aged 5 to 24 in 2020 were for mental health conditions. Females aged 15 to 17 were twice as likely to be hospitalized as males the same age. The CIHI also reports there has been a steady increase in the use of anxiety medication by children and youth aged 5 to 24 in the past five years. Rates were more than twice for females. The rate of hospitalizations for eating disorders also saw an increase. Beginning in the 2023-24 school year, the district plans to provide timely and appropriate support for children and youth through three core elements: social emotional learning and instruction, mental health literacy, and systems of support. Collin indicated that social emotional learning is a key component in promoting mental health since it fosters interpersonal skills such as cooperation, conflict resolution, and self-control. Regulating a child’s stress and emotions, forming positive relationships, and acting with compassion are all vital components in their mental well-being. It is believed that a comprehensive school approach, in partnership with Interior Health, will encourage healthy lifestyle choices, such as proper eating habits and saying no to substance use. “Schools are recognized as the most appropriate environment for universal mental health promotion, as well as early recognition of mental health challenges,” Collin said in her report. Lastly, the district will actively engage community partners to ensure that students are able to access mental health services. Connections with Foundry East Kootenay and Child and Youth Mental Health are two examples. Collin said the district has received financial support from the province in the amount of $55,000 to support the strategy. The district defines mental illness characterized by alterations in thinking, mood or behaviour associated with distress and impaired functioning. It gives examples such as anxiety, depression, eating disorders, substance use and personality disorders. “Students learn best in a safe and encouraging environment where adults understand and care about themselves and others,” the district states. The strategy’s objectives are: to encourage, empower and nurture employees through professional learning opportunities; foster a stigma-free culture that encourages self-care and mutual support; and to help all educators develop strategies to manage stress and support mental well-being. In a recent national survey, 70 per cent of Canadian teachers identified the need for more knowledge about mental health and illness. Steve Wyer, the district’s assistant superintendent, said their strategy filters down from the ministry’s initiative.
“All the evidence supports the foundational premise that students can only learn if they are feeling safe, welcome, and that they belong at school,” he noted. This notion of belonging ranges from feeling a connection to school to seeing oneself reflected in what is valued at the school, Wyer pointed out. He stated that reported data indicates that Rocky Mountain School District No. 6 shows trends for student well-being that are increasing each year. See https:// studentsuccess.gov.bc.ca/school-district/006/report/student-satisfaction. However, there is still potential for more growth,
Wyer said. Specifically, on this student survey, students are asked about their experience learning about mental health in school as well as their ability to use strategies to care for their own well-being. School district and provincial data on this point is in the 40 to 50 per cent range of students feeling able to care for their mental health. “This is motivating data to support mental health literacy for students in schools. Certainly, the district hopes to see improving trends in this data with the implementation of a detailed Mental Health in Schools plan,” Wyer said.
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The Columbia Valley Pioneer
November 2, 2023
Author-musician offers new book, albums
By Steve Hubrecht steve@columbiavalleypioneer.com A missing dog, a vanished lover, and a guitar-slinging protagonist running from toughs intent on killing him, all amid the soaring peaks and wide open horizons of the west. It’s a classic tale told with swashbuckling verve in both words and in song by Invermere author and musician James Rose. He recently launched a new book and, earlier this summer, a pair of albums. The flurry of creativity is no coincidence — the novel and the music tie together forming a larger, multi-layered project set in a tourism-based mountain town. Pioneer readers with decent memories will recall Rose serving two stints as a staff reporter at the Pioneer in recent years. Rose also grew up in the Columbia Valley, and although he wrote the book and composed the albums while living in Banff over the course of the past year, he does concede that the valley, as well as his experiences living in Banff, helped inform both the novel and the music. In fact, the valley is where the later half of the book’s first chapter takes place (the protagonist is taking a break from Banff). The novel — ‘King Hell Spectacle’ — tells the story of Banff folksinger Cliff Beauregard. Cliff lands a major record deal, but loses his girlfriend and his French Algerian bulldog, before a case of mistaken identity
Invermere author-musician James Rose has something to say . . . and sing. Photo submitted results in a pair of mysterious agents on Cliff’s tail for reasons that aren’t altogether clear. There’s plenty of twists and turns to keep readers hooked, but perhaps the most intriguing part is that each chapter begins with the lyrics to a song. The songs are the ones that the fictional Cliff is writing for his debut record. They also happen to narrate the story of the wild ride Cliff’s life has taken since getting his big break. Each chapter begins with these lyrics. The text of the chapter then expands on the song.
Presents: City Lights & Mountain Nights
Fashion Show
“So there’s the song, and then there’s the prose. What you’re reading, when you read the rest of the chapter (after the lyrics), is the prose behind the song,” Rose explained to the Pioneer. “Songs telling a story are very much in the folk tradition of ballads.” Cliff’s lyrics are, of course, written by Rose. But Rose has done more than just write lyrics — he’s written music, on acoustic guitar and harmonica. So most of the songs in the book (there are three exceptions) are actual songs in real life. Together these songs make up ‘While A Record Played,’ Rose’s debut album. “There’s a lot of overlap — the songs are in the book. The songs tell a story, the book tells a story, and they are both intertwined,” said Rose. The music is a mix of country, folk and blues. If you listen to snippets of each song, one of the tunes is bound to get stuck in your head for the rest of the day (for the Pioneer this was the catchy ‘Tango in Durango’). ‘While A Record Played’ is a fulllength album with 11 songs, and not long after it was released, Rose put out an EP with five more new songs. These too feature acoustic guitar and enigmatic, tale-telling lyrics in the vein of Bob Dylan. Several of them also appear in ‘King Hell Spectacle’. “I like when a story is being told (in a song). It doesn’t really matter what the genre is, if it’s good music and a good narrator, I like it,” said Rose. “That’s what I was trying to do with my songs.” Rose recorded ‘While A Record Played’ and ‘Cantina’ quickly, with the intention of capturing the raw, imperfect
Grab a friend for a fun night to celebrate the latest fashions in the Valley November 9th, 2023 Doors open at 5:30pm • Show Starts at 7:00pm Columbia Valley Centre • Tickets $45 No tickets sold at the door!
King Hell Spectacle by local author James Rose tells the twists and turns story of Banff folksinger Cliff Beauregard, who lands a major record deal, but loses his girlfriend and his French Algerian bulldog, before a case of mistaken identity results in a pair of mysterious agents on Cliff’s tail.
Tickets include free hors-d’oeuvres from 5:30 pm until 6:45 pm. Wine bar available - $6 per glass. MC Brittany Schaffer
Photo submitted
Tickets Available at: La Galeria II, Avenue Ladies Boutique, Inside Edge, and Hospice Office - or call at 778-526-5143
REACH OUT
I am working for you!
www.DougClovechok.ca
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doug.clovechok.mla@leg.bc.ca As your MLA I am listening to what matters most to the people of Columbia River-Revelstoke
energy of the moment. The cover for ‘While A Record Played’ will look very familiar indeed to Columbia Valley residents, as it is a fine art oil painting of Columbia Lake and the mountains beyond as viewed from the north. It was done by local artist Denise Lemaster, who just so happens to be Rose’s mom. Although ‘King Hell Spectacle’ launched as a novel a few weeks ago, Rose serialized the tale earlier this year, releasing it chapter by chapter through his online newsletter. The first chapter came out in mid October 2022, and the chapters were released regularly online every few weeks thereafter. Rose told the Pioneer he had no overall plot outline for the book, and was making up each chapter as he went. This is a radical departure from his usual style, which involves creating detailed plot outlines first and then churning out a book at a torrid pace, essentially pounding it out in one large push. “My first three books were very much a blitzkrieg approach, getting as much done as possible every day,” said Rose. “This was a very different way to go about it and to impose some parameters on myself. It gave me more time to think.” Rose said he was inspired to serialize his novel by Tom Wolfe’s ‘Bonfire of the Vanities’ which was originally released in serial form in the 1980s in Rolling Stone magazine. ‘King Hell Spectacle’ is available at Four Points Books in downtown Invermere, as well as online through Four Points Books website (fourpointsbook.ca) or through Amazon.
November 2, 2023
The Columbia Valley Pioneer
9
School board continues ‘Feeding Futures’
Columbia Valley Pioneer staff Feed a student, feed the future. That’s the ideology behind the Rocky Mountain board of education’s food program in schools. At its regular meeting on Oct. 10, the district reviewed a report by Director of Instruction Sharon Collin on “Feeding Futures,” based on the initiative by the Ministry of Education and Child Care to expand school food programs across the province. Funding is used to purchase food (through partnerships with local growers), hire staff to coordinate the provision of meals and snacks, and expand kitchen facilities. Collin said the initiative has allowed the district to address the need for dedicated staff to support food programming in local schools. She noted that a survey showed that most elementary schools have a breakfast or snack program in place. The stated goal for primary schools is to further develop the scope of the program to make it universal. Collin added that high school cafeteria programs offer low-cost lunch options for students. “However, after review, secondary schools will be expanding food programs to include no-cost, universal breakfast options.”
The report indicates an increased need for counter and cupboard space in several school kitchens, as well as the need for appliances for food storage. It was noted that a recent capital grant was received to support kitchen upgrades at Edgewater Elementary School, Eileen Madson Primary School, and Windermere Elementary School. The district is requesting additional funds to implement breakfast programs across school communities ($100,000 for kitchen upgrades and $80,000 for equipment in 2024/25). The provincial government says it is supporting school food programs so that students can focus on learning, not on being hungry. Minister of Education and Child Care Rachna Singh said these programs help reduce the pressure on busy parents and their wallets while tackling student hunger. Pam, Alexis, Minister of Agriculture and Food, said these children will be getting more nutritious food grown in B.C. “Together with our farmers and food businesses, we are helping to feed the minds of the next generation of British Columbians,” she said. Along with feeding hungry kids in school, the programs will help families reduce the challenges of rising food costs.
Monthly film festival series launches soon By Steve Hubrecht steve@columbiavalleypioneer.com A new monthly film festival series is set to kick off in the Columbia Valley Centre next week, taking advantage of the centre’s brand new, state-of-the-art digital laser cinema projector. The series is dubbed IFF Movie Nights and is being put on by the nonprofit Invermere Film Festival group. The plan is to show a different film on the first Tuesday of each month. The first one is next week on Tuesday, Nov. 7, when IFF will screen ‘Blackberry’. “It’s going to be great,” enthused series co-organizer Chris Jones. “The projector is brilliant, the new screen is huge and I’m sitting beside a lot of boxes of popcorn here in the office.” Jones is quick to give credit for the new film series to Invermere Film Festival organizer Bill Johnston, who thought that if Invermere is receptive to an annual film festival (which is held in February each year) then a monthly movie series would be a hit too. The new projector, new screen (which is 36 feet wide) and a new audio system were co-funded by the IFF society and the District of Invermere, and Jones explained
that the new equipment creates a movie-going experience unlike anything ever before experienced in Invermere. “It really is top-calibre,” he said. “We could be playing ‘Barbie’ here. It’s that good. It’s commercial quality ... it’s going to knock people’s socks off.” The films will come from the Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF) catalogue. ‘Blackberry’ is a comedy-drama telling the story of the dramatic rise and the subsequent equally dramatic collapse of Waterloo-based company Research in Motion (RIM), the creator of the once ubiquitous Blackberry devices. “It’s got an amazing cast, a great soundtrack and a lot of really good reviews,” said Jones. The film series will continue in December and January, take a break in February (when the Invermere Film Festival happens), then resume from March through June. Tickets for the first screening are $12 for general admission, $10 for children and seniors. For more information about accessing the films including tickets, visit iffmovienights.eventive.org.
Amanda Nichol, first vice-president of the BC Confederation of Parent Advisory Councils, said the emphasis is to not have students hungry at school. “All our students should have access to nutritious food so that they can focus on learning in order to reach their full po-
tential.” Viveca Ellis, executive director of Single Mothers’ Alliance, said food programs in schools help low-income families save time and money, and supports economic recovery and food security.
Under the ‘Feeding Futures’ program, secondary schools in the district will be expanding food programs to include no-cost, universal breakfast options. File photo
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The Columbia Valley Pioneer
November 2, 2023
OUT OF OFFICE… Columbia Valley Retro Fit Fair:
Transforming Homes, Transforming Communities Looking to lower your home costs and your environmental impact? Then the Columbia Valley Retro Fit Fair is for you! Scheduled for November 12th from 1:00 to 5:00pm at the Chamber of Commerce Lion’s Hall, this event is not just a fair; it’s a rallying point for homeowners looking to make a positive impact on the environment. Organized by the Columbia Valley Economic Development and Wildsight Invermere, the fair emphasizes the importance and advantages of environmentally friendly renovations to homes. As our carbon footprint becomes a critical concern, retrofitting homes for energy efficiency is a proactive step towards a greener, more sustainable future. Local businesses will be on-site, showcasing their offerings for eco-friendly renovations. From energy-
efficient appliances to sustainable building materials, attendees will have the opportunity to explore and engage with businesses committed to sustainable practices. Workshops on retrofits will be a highlight of the fair, providing valuable insights and guidance on how to make homes more energy-efficient. Homeowners can learn about the latest technologies and methods to reduce energy consumption, lower utility bills, and contribute to a healthier planet. One of the key attractions is the availability of grants for homeowners interested in making eco-conscious renovations. The fair serves as an information hub, connecting residents with resources to make their sustainability dreams a reality.
The Community Energy Association will be on-site, offering test drives of electric vehicles. This hands-on experience allows attendees to explore the benefits of electric transportation, a crucial aspect of reducing carbon emissions in our communities. As a gesture of appreciation for community involvement, free refreshments will be available for all attendees. The fair isn’t just an event; it’s a celebration of collective efforts towards a sustainable and ecofriendly future. The Columbia Valley Retro Fit Fair isn’t just about upgrading homes; it’s about transforming communities and fostering a shared commitment to a greener, healthier planet. Join us on November 12th to be a part of this transformative journey.
November 2, 2023
Thursday, November 2 • 10:30am-11:30am: Senior’s Fitness Columbia Valley Centre, $2 dropin. • 11:30am-12:00pm: Little Lambs Radium Hot Springs Public Library. Join us for songs, rhymes, and stories with your babies! No registration required. • 2:00pm-3:00pm: Needles & Hooks. Invermere Public 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! • 6:45pm: Texas Hold ‘Em Poker Invermere Legion. $30 buy-in. • 7:30pm: Trivia Night Windermere Whitehouse Pub.
Friday, November 3 • -5-8pm: Artist Soiree with live music. Pynelogs. Slone Leman & Tyson Avis • 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. • 6:30pm - close: Meat Draw and 50/50 in the Legion! Members and guests welcome! • 7:00pm-10:00pm: Columbia Valley Rockies vs Nelson
Saturday, November 4 • 6:00pm-1:00am: 50th Annual Fireman’s Ball. Their biggest event of the year, and all funds raised will be used to purchase and build a Type II Structure Protection Unit. There will be a fabulous dinner, a dance, awards ceremony, and tons of games and prizes! Dinner will be catered by Trotters Catering, with meat provided by Konig Meats. Music and entertainment provided by live band Liquid Rhythm of Calgary, and by local DJ Dustin Murray. • 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
The Columbia Valley Pioneer
but that's only the beginning! https://www.tickettailor.com/events/ rhythmbynature/store • 7:30pm-11:00pm: Kimberly Horrorfest at Ullr. Join the Ullr Crew in Invermere to see all the amazing horror flicks, enjoy the full bar and don't scream. Limited tickets to this event so get yours now! Tickets include one free blood bag and one draft beer. Draft beer will be $5.00 per 16oz pour all night. • 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. • 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! • 7:00pm-10:00pm: Columbia Valley Rockies vs Castlegar
Sunday, November 5 • 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 6 • 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.
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Tuesday, November 7 • 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! • 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 8
• 11:30am-12:00pm: Firefighter Story Time! Radium Public Library. Drop in and join Emilie and a Firefighter from the Radium Hot Springs Volunteer Fire Department for a special storytime! preschool & all ages. • 7:00pm-9:30pm: Author John Valliant Zoom watch party & Conversation on Climate Screening. Invermere Public Library. Wildsight Invermere & Invermere Public Library invite you to join us for a screening of a zoom interview with John Valliant, author of Fire Weather: The Making of a Beast, and Fatima Syad, climate reporter at the Narwal. The zoom event is brought to us by BC Library Federation. In the library mezzanine from 7pm - 9:30pm. For more information or to let us know you are coming please email invermere@wildsight.ca • 10:00am-11:00am: Senior's Yoga Columbia Valley Centre, $2 drop-in. • 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 schoolaged 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. • 6:30pm: Indoor Pickleball Invermere Curling Club, Ladies Night.
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The Columbia Valley Pioneer
November 2, 2023
Many people attended the Ktunaxa Literacy Day event on October 23 and 24, when the Ktunaxa language was celebrated with the sentiment that it needs to be brought back every day. Photo submitted
Ktunaxa Literacy Day celebrates language By Julia Magsombol Local Journalism Initiative julia@columbiavalleypioneer.com They say that language is part of a culture, but it may also be something that defines ourselves. This is how many Ktunaxa felt while attending the Ktunaxa Literacy Day cele-
bration on October 23 and 24 at St. Eugene Resort. “It’s been part of who I am,” said Vickie Thomas, the director of the Traditional Knowledge and Language sector at Ktunaxa Nation Council. Thomas attended the meaningful event and is one of the main organizers. She said this is truly a celebration of the
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Columbia Basin Trust gratefully operates on the unceded traditional territories of the Ktunaxa, Lheidli T’enneh, Secwépemc, Sinixt and Syilx Nations.
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language. “We need to focus on bringing back our language every single day, not just Literacy Day” she added. On the night of October 23, a key panel of orators like Charlene George from the Squamish Nation, Bonnie Harvey from ?Aq’am, and Barbara Fisher from the ?akisq’nuk First Nation spoke about language revitalization and their language journey. “Everybody was feeling rejuvenated afterwards. Everybody was excited,” Thomas added. On October 24, the date of Ktunaxa Literacy Day, people listened to Ktunaxa songs and stories. Seven elders who are fluent in Ktunaxa also spoke. It was truly a gift to the participants to hear them speak. One of the presenters was Caitlin Sherwood, who embraces the Ktunaxa language as a learner. In fact, she hopes to incorporate the language into different games such as Dungeons and Dragons. Going back in time, the first Ktunaxa Literacy Day was declared in 1994. But in terms of the gathering and celebration, this was the first time the language was celebrated together as Ktunaxa n’intik in a very long time. There are fewer than 10 people who are considered fluent in the Ktunaxa language, which is a critically endangered language. “It was just such a heartfelt, emotional day. I’m a dedicated learner, but this is just to ensure that I know that I’m on the right path. Sometimes it’s a lonely road, there’s a lot of work to do, but these moments are the fuel that is needed to keep us going,” said Mara Nelson, the Traditional Knowledge and Language support
educator from Ktunaxa Nation. Nelson attended the event, saying we are responsible for how the language lives on for another thousand years. “There was a lot of laughter, and there were some times when the emotions were very high,” she added. “It was just a phenomenal experience, and to be in that room with that many incredible language speakers, and our knowledge keepers, it was just the biggest gift.” And in every gift, there is a celebration behind it. “Literacy Day is for celebration and reminding ourselves to celebrate and enjoy the knowledge that we can learn,” Thomas said. She mentioned that her grandmother was a Ktunaxa speaker, so the Ktunaxa language has been very close and important to her. She is still a learner and is trying to learn the language through Alfred Joseph’s class, a respected Elder from ?akiq’nuk Ktunaxa Nation. Nelson is also learning the language with them. “Instilling that appreciation for the language . . . it’s been in my entire life,” Thomas said. ?aqanmiyit su?kni ?uk’tuqakwum is Thomas’ favourite phrase in Ktunaxa. It means every day is a good day to speak Ktunaxa. Nelson added: “It grounded me personally; it grounded me in the work that I know I’m going to want to focus on.” To read more about the Ktunaxa language and Nelson’s story, visit https:// www.columbiavalleypioneer.com/ktunaxa-language-being-preserved/ Thomas and Nelson are confident that the language will continue to be spoken for thousands of years.
November 2, 2023
The Columbia Valley Pioneer
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New ‘Teddy Bear Picnic’ event Nov. 17
By Julia Magsombol Local Journalism Initiative julia@columbiavalleypioneer.com On November 17, Invermere will have a Teddy Bear Picnic consisting of fun activities and services for families and children. “This is our first Teddy Bear Picnic event. We’re hoping that if it goes well, we can make it an annual event” said Glenn Goslin, the district principal of early
learning for Rocky Mountain School District No. 6. The event will take place in Columbia Valley Centre on Friday, Nov. 17 from 10 to 11:30 a.m. Everything is free, including the snacks. Attendees will have access to many free resources and materials, including picture books. The picnic is a Ready, Set, Learn event funded by the Ministry of Education and Child Care. It will provide preschool children (birth to five years of age) and their
families with information about free programs and services before entering school. He added that the activities offered will depend on each service provider. For example, the Invermere Public Library will lead a storytime for the kids. The children are welcome to wear costumes from their favourite book characters. Every station of service providers will have blankets and stuffed toys, which is why it’s called a ‘picnic.’ Goslin added that despite the cold weather, families and chil-
dren can still have a picnic indoors. The Akisqnuk First Nation, Shuswap Band, and Métis Association are important members of our community and have been invited to participate in the event. “It’s really fulfilling to see when families can access the services and programs that are available to them. It helps our kids to feel connected before they begin school. It just improves their lives. I believe that early learning is where we can make a difference,” said Goslin.
Families are invited to the first ever ‘Teddy Bear Picnic’ at Columbia Valley Centre on November 17. The free event will offer fun activities for children and information for parents on the many services available in the community. Photos submitted
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Columbia Basin Trust gratefully operates on the unceded traditional territories of the Ktunaxa, Lheidli T’enneh, Secwépemc, Sinixt and Syilx Nations.
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The Columbia Valley Pioneer
November 2, 2023
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Go straight! Go straight! Unfortunately, you can’t tell a pumpkin on wheels what to do, especially during the Peter, Peter Pumpkin Eater Street Race Classic in Invermere on Oct. 21. Photos by Dayle Denton
November 2, 2023
The Columbia Valley Pioneer
15
Over the past year, the Invermere Public Library received $24,500 from the “Friends” fundraising events to support programs and services. Don’t miss the next Pop-Up Book Sale on December 1-2 at the Columbia Valley Centre in conjunction with the Holly Jolly Market. Photo submitted
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The Columbia Valley Pioneer
P IONEER C LASSIFIEDS ANNOUNCEMENT
CHEERS WITHOUT TEARS
ATTENTION
Cheers to Catherine at McDonald's. You are so friendly and always smiling. Your customer service is above and beyond! Cheers to Hailey who works at Quality Bakery for the great customer service. So friendly and personable. Cheers to everyone who attended Edgewater/ Radium Hospital Auxiliary tea. So much fun! See you next year!!!
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.
Cheers to Elaine Vandale for coming to our moms assistance when she fell. Cheers for contacting the family and Deadline: November 15 calling the ambulance. It was a Download application: lot to deal with and your calm www.steamboatmtnmusicfest.ca demeanour and quick thinking Al-Anon. Are you concerned was very much appreciated. about or affected by someone Cheers to our sister Michelle for else’s drinking? Meeting coming from Edmonton to help Mondays 7:15 pm. at Canadian Martyrs Parish front side door. take care of our mother. Your 712 12 Ave. Invermere. For help was appreciated more than more information or to speak you know. with someone from our Cheers to Rosanna & Shane fellowship, please call 250-878- Gillard for always be there to 2448 or 250-342-8392. help during a crisis. Don’t know Alcoholics Anonymous. If what we’d do without you. alcohol is causing problems or con ict in your life, AA can help. Our community has been so All meetings are at 7 p.m. fortunate to have had ‘The Columbia United AA, Invermere: Insectarium’ or Bug Zoo’ for 2 Saturday, Sunday, Tuesday and years! My grandson & I have Wednesday at the BC Service learned so much about a part of Building, South End – 624 4th nature we don’t often see. Cheers to Bruce and his whole St., Invermere. Please call 250family for providing this active, 342-2424 for more information live museum of creatures and or to speak with someone from stimulating the curiosity of so our fellowship. many visitors of all ages. It was Narcotics Anonymous a grand learning space and is Open Meeting missed already.
Mondays 7 p.m. at the Cheers to the Louise Wiglie and BC Service Building, South End. Jace Barrault, the lucky winners 624-4th St. Invermere. of the Edgewater Radium CHEERS WITHOUT Health Care Auxiliary's Money TEARS Board raffle. A a big cheers to all Cheers to Nicole at Sobeys!! who supported this fundraiser. Great customer service from Cheers to Sophie Berkhoff for Edgewater/ Radium Hospital being such a kind, caring and Auxiliary. Cheers to Sobeys for compassionate person. I always leave your place feeling the donation. wonderful after my massage. Cheers to Tracy of Valley Lockworks for your prompt and You have healing hands.
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November 2, 2023
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Diamond, Douglas HUGH Douglas Hugh Diamond, AKA (Hugh) passed away on October the 15th 2023 in Invermere hospital, with his loving Fiancé and son by his side. Hugh was born in Port Perry Ontario to Alex and Sylvia Diamond. Hugh was raised on a 100acre farm in Port Perry with his three brothers Bill, Mike, and Pat along with their sister Denise. Hugh grew up as a farm boy, getting in Duke boy trouble. He would later get a job in the General Motors plant in Oshawa before his adventurous spirit took him West to British Columbia. While he was in BC Hugh became a high lead logger and after spending some time in woods, he knew there was no going back to factory work for him. Before long Hugh became a hooktender and he knew he found his calling. One evening, Hugh found himself in the Kent Hotel and bar, in Agassiz BC. It was there that he met Sylvia Lee-Anne Smith, AKA (Lee-Anne). The two fell in love, and after a few moths Hugh and Lee-Anne moved in together. The couple got married in Edgewater Anglican Church in 1978 and had their first and only child Doug a year later. The three of them lived a short time in Vancouver, then Lyle Island, before renting numerous homes up and down Vancouver Island, continuing to look for greener pastures. Later in life Hugh and Lee-Anne found themselves moving to Edgewater to be close to his wife’s ailing parents and ended up living in their family home after they passed. They made a home for themselves in Edgewater, with their son Doug usually close by. Over time the couple began to grow roots and amassed a number of close friends. On December 23rd 2017, Lee-Anne Passed away due to medical complications. Shortly after, Hugh’s son Doug and Hugh’s good friend Dave lived together in Lee-Anne’s family home for a couple of years, before Hugh found his last love Doris Thierbach. Hugh ended up moving in with Doris and the two were engaged to be married, before his untimely passing. Hugh had a brutalist style of charm that made him many friends and even more laughs. He was a great storyteller that would have you hanging on his every word and was the first to help someone that was down and out. Hugh is survived by his son Doug, his fiancé Doris, his grandsons Kuruk and Kohen, his brother Pat, his nephews Kenton and Lee and his niece Michelle. Hugh had many loved ones that will miss him dearly. His family will be having a Celebration of Life for him close to his birthday in late November which will be advertised as it nears.
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AUCTIONS
Sentinel Storage Located at:
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.
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November 2, 2023
The Columbia Valley Pioneer
HELP WANTED
17
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. 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
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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.
CLASSES / TRAINING
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The Columbia Valley Pioneer
November 2, 2023
New B.C. rules on STRs won’t affect valley
By Steve Hubrecht steve@columbiavalleypioneer.com The B.C. government announced new regulations for short-term rentals (STRs) earlier this month, but they will not affect the Columbia Valley. That’s because all municipalities and rural electoral areas here are well below the threshold population of 10,000 for the new rules. And even if populations here were larger, there are exceptions in the new provincial regulations for B.C.’s 14 official designated resort municipalities, which include Invermere-Panorama Mountain Resort (which count together) as well as Radium Hot Springs. The announcement about the Short Term Rental Act came on Monday, October 16 and when making it B.C. Premier David Eby explained it was aimed at least partly at turning STRs back into long-term rentals. The act will limit STRs to one per property and limits STRs to principal residences (i.e. homes and property on which the owners live themselves). This means second homes and vacation homes cannot be rented as STRs. It will allow fines for those breaking municipal STR bylaws to increase from $1,000 per infraction to $3,000. But the new rules will, for the most part, only apply to communities with a population of 10,000 and will not apply to any of the province’s designated resort municipalities. A few communities with populations under 10,000 will be subject to the regulations, but only if they are within 15 kilometres of a larger centre of 10,000 or more people. Communities to which the new regulations do not apply (including those in the Columbia Valley) can choose to opt in to them if they wish. On the other hand, communities that fall under the new regulations can apply to opt out, if they have vacancy rates of three per cent or greater. Here in the Columbia Valley, the District of Invermere has been working on a STR bylaw for the past several years and is likely to adopt it this winter. The Village of Radium Hot Springs adopted its STR bylaw more than two years ago. The Re-
The majestic beauty of trumpeter swans in flight. Photo by Syd Danis
gional District of East Kootenay (RDEK) adopted an STR Temporary Use Permit (TUP) policy this past summer. Local officials indicated that, for now, they intend to stay the course with their chosen municipal approaches to STR regulation rather than trying to ‘opt in’ to the new B.C. regulations. “It’s something we could look at in the future, but right now we want to keep following our own trail,” Invermere Mayor Al Miller told the Pioneer. Miller noted that the designated resort municipalities have long been different than other B.C. municipalities, particularly larger urban centres in terms of demographics, in the percentage of second home owners, and in the importance of their tourism industry as a proportion of the local economy. “Personally, I would rather we have some STRs in Invermere. We simply do not have enough hotel rooms to cater to all the visitors who want to come to the valley. But it is important that we regulate them, and to me the most important part of that is that the STR has a manager who is here in the valley rather than elsewhere, and who can respond quickly to issues that arise.” The latest draft version of Invermere’s proposed STR bylaw outlines a five-step series of escalating penalties for breaking the STR rules, 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 court and a $5,000 fine. The initial $50 fine in Invermere’s draft bylaw contrasts with the $3,000 per infraction in the province’s new STR regulations. Miller told the Pioneer that he personally is a fan of steep fines, saying “my own opinion is that fines that elevate quickly are important. I think that is the only way you can really get attention.” Invermere just finished conducting the latest round of public consultation on its proposed STR bylaw, with an online survey that wrapped up on Friday, Oct. 27.
The province’s new regulations on short-term rentals will not affect the situation in the Columbia Valley and other designated resort municipalities. Photo by Olivier Le Moal/Getty Images Miller said more than 300 surveys had been completed by local residents, adding he’s pleased with that result. “It’s a strong response. I’m glad to see that. It is quite the topic, it affects a lot of people,” he said. “There is a lot of reading (of survey results) to do before we (Invermere council) can make any decisions.” In Radium Hot Springs, village councillor Dale Shudra (who is acting mayor while Radium Mayor Mike Gray is away on vacation) explained to the Pioneer that Radium too has no immediate plans to opt in to the new provincial STR rules. Shudra cautioned that he was speaking personally, since the matter has not yet been discussed by Radium council, but did tell the Pioneer that if Radium were to decide to opt in “it would be something that would need to be carefully thought through and be discussed with the community (through public consultation).” He noted that any such move would have a tremendous impact in Radium, since as
far as he understands, more than 90 per cent of STR permits issued in Radium since the village adopted its bylaw have been to non-primary residence homeowners. The RDEK feels the same as Invermere and Radium. “While the pending provincial legislation offers new regulatory and enforcement opportunities for local governments, further review is needed to determine how the RDEK can best utilize the proposed tools,” said planner Justin Cook in a press release. “Ensuring that short-term rental uses conform to zoning regulations remains a top priority, and the new shortterm rental temporary use permit process is not impacted at this time.” The RDEK began taking applications for TUPs to run STRs in rural areas on October 1. For more information on that process, visit: engage.rdek.bc.ca/temporaryusepermit
November 2, 2023
The Columbia Valley Pioneer
19
Teachers gather to enhance education
By Julia Magsombol Local Journalism Initiative julia@columbiavalleypioneer.com Columbia Basin Environmental Education Network (CBEEN) recently gathered with local educators for the 2023 ‘Inquiring Voices’ professional development day for teachers. “This gathering aims to bring environmental educators together to strengthen the connections among themselves within the network of CBEEN that would last long after they leave the gathering,” said Sanne van der Ros, the Inquiring Voices event coordinator. The three-day collaboration at Blue Lake Camp on Oct. 19-21 saw educators from Golden, Nelson, Edgewood, Revelstoke, Cranbrook, Kimberley (k’aqawakanmituk in Ktunaxa language), Castlegar, Fernie, ?aq’am, Canal Flats, Elkford, Crowsnest Pass, Creston, and Windermere. “The experience of gathering in person at Blue Lake Camp was amazing. Being able to sense each other’s energy and share the space for several days made for a special feeling of connectedness and community,” van der Ros said. “Meeting in person helped develop relationships among educators across the Basin who can support one another, even from a distance, if they don’t live in the same area. I
would describe it as magical; magic happens when you bring passionate people together to connect, share, and learn from one another, given enough time and the right setting.” The meeting included orientation, activities, ceremonies, networking and awards. van der Ros also said that the main point of the gathering is that the attendees work actively on improving their teaching through the sharing of best practices in environmental education among educators — this happens through the ‘Open Spaces’ sessions, a five-minute sharing session and conversations throughout the educators’ time together. “The understanding is that the best nuggets of learning and inspiration often come from the informal conversations at a conference and the connections you make,” she added. van der Ros noted that 33 educators met and seven received awards. One of the educators who received the Indigenous Educator Award was Alfred Joseph from the Ktunaxa Nation and the past chief of the Akisqnuk Nation. He spoke about the importance of revitalizing the Ktunaxa language. She said the event has a partnership with the Outdoor Learning Store, which supports the gathering financially. The collaboration was inspired by a
similar event held at Sea to Sky Outdoor School on the Sunshine Coast. Monica Nissen, Wildsight’s Education Director and CBEEN member, was one of the convenors of the first ‘Voices’ event in the Columbia Basin in 2007. The goal of the event is to bring educators together to form learning communities that
will help education move forward. “I felt grateful to see it all come together so well after a couple of years of planning,” van der Ros said. “ It is amazing to be part of building a network of education professionals who can support one another as they do their important work.”
Educators had a great time collaborating at Blue Lake Camp in October for the ‘Inquiring Voices’ professional development day. Photos submitted
BEY ND THE BLUE LINE Rockies win, lose games in overtime play Beyond the Blue Line By Stephanie Stevens Two overtime games for the Columbia Valley Rockies last weekend saw good effort and excellent goaltending. Friday Oct. 27 saw the Creston Valley Thundercats in the Eddie Mountain Memorial Arena, but despite a tight game, the ‘Cats’ went home without the win. Head coach and General Manager Taylor Sincennes said the home team showed resilience in both games, ultimately grabbing three of four division points. Friday scoring was opened up in the first period by #14 Tysin Mulligan (assists from #12 Kaelen Shelton and #9 Carter Velker), followed up by #8 Theo Fath, unassisted. Second period scoring was courtesy of #24 Luke Hamilton (assists from #19 Johnny Lozeman and #11 Wyatt Wurtz). The winning overtime goal was scored by Velker (assists by #5 Jamieson Franz and Mulligan).
While Saturday’s away game in Kimberley was ultimately an overtime loss for the Rockies, Sincennes said the team proved their mettle clawing their way back into the game with only five minutes left. Scoring in the first was #10 Oleg Bitus (assists from Wurtz and #18 Maxence Guay) and scoring the late third period comeback goals were Shelton (assists from Mulligan and #28 Paddy Donahue) and #16 Gage Sather (unassisted). “We had really good goaltending performances in both games,” Sincennes noted. Minding the net for the Friday game was #1 Jaiden Jakubowski and between the pipes in Kimberley Saturday was #30 Nate Glenn. The Rockies are back in Eddie Mountian Memorial Arena this Friday, Nov. 3 against the Nelson Leafs. On Saturday, Nov. 4 the Castlegar Rebels will try their luck against the Rockies in the hometown barn.
The Rockies #8 Theo Fath follows the action against the Creston Valley Thundercats in Eddie Mountain Memorial Arena on Friday, Oct. 27. Fath scored unassisted that evening. Photo by Stephanie Stevens
20
The Columbia Valley Pioneer
It’s the people problem, folks Fresh old ideas
By Arnold Malone Pioneer Columnist Toronto has a Green Belt consisting of two million acres of recreational and prime farm land. They may be developed for housing. The larger cities of Canada do have a housing crisis. In fact, most citizens living in large urban centres are unable to afford a house and renting swallows up the largest chunk of most people’s income. In the original Canada, only eight per cent of our massive territory was suitable for food production. Much of that eight per cent is now rendered non-agricultural. There is a historical desire to build cities smack in the centre of our best food producing soils. We need to realize there are only two sources for human food: one is soil and the other is water. The world’s biggest problem is that there are too many people. When cities such as Toronto or Vancouver expand beyond their natural limits there are bound to be serious repercussions. It is a hard-held opinion in North America that population growth is required to sustain a viable economy. However, expanding the human population is a practice that cannot be sustained across the fulness of time. The United Nations has a committee that evaluates the best countries in the world in which to live. Switzerland ranked first, Norway second and Denmark sixth. What is interesting about these countries is that for decades they have recorded stable populations. In Canada, by contrast, the Prime Minister’s office – along with an organization called Century 21- advocates that Canada should have a population of 100 million by the end of this century; more than double our present numbers. Four big issues currently concern society: climate change, housing shortage, world food security and bio
diversity. These problems are caused by over-population. It took 1,850 years after the birth of Christianity for this planet to reach a population of one billion. In the next 87 years the world’s population grew to 2.2 billion. Those 87 years brings us to 1937, the year I was born. In just my lifetime the planet has added another six billion persons; and it wasn’t my fault. As a child, I never once heard a discussion about climate change, housing shortage, food security (within Canada) or the need to protect the rights of other species. Some demographers argue that the world will grow the human population to 10 billion and then stabilize and perhaps decline. However, eight billion people is already too many to sustain our necessary resources. What is needed is a world-wide effort to educate and economically advance the lives of those people in the world’s poorest countries. All countries with an advanced middle class have a stable or declining birth rate. Western Europe, North America, Australia, New Zealand, along with other countries, have birth rates that are in decline. The question that needs to be asked is: How many people should this planet have at any one time so as to sustain humanity across the centuries? If each family, world-wide, had half a child less – in practical terms, every second family having one less child - then our population would reduce by one billion in a generation. Ukraine is supported by 42 countries in her defence against the aggressive invasion by Russia. Surely, we can get a collection of advanced countries to help solve the world’s greatest problem by educating people world-wide. Today we are immigrating people to build houses for the immigrants who have already arrived. Anyone who imagines that population growth can continue without end is someone who is blind to the obvious. A world with eight billion people cannot help but experience climate problems, a housing crisis, food shortages and be a threat to all other species. (Arnold Malone served as MP for Alberta’s Battle River and Crowfoot ridings from 1974 through 1993. He retired to Invermere in 2007.)
November 2, 2023
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 recent 43rd Terry Fox Run saw 55 participants, a number of ‘first-timers’ and four volunteers. A total of $1,030 was raised at the registration table, with a total of $15,410 raised in pledges as of run day. Photo by Donna Scheffer
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