Columbia Valley Pioneer - September 7, 2023

Photo by Jane Shopland

Photos

New valley RCMP commander arrives

By Steve Hubrecht steve@columbiavalleypioneer.com

At long last the Columbia Valley RCMP has a new official detachment commander.

The position has been vacant since former Columbia Valley RCMP Sgt. Darren Kakuno left to start a new role in Cranbrook at the start of the new year.

Corporal Jeff Witzke has ably stepped in to fill the gap on an interim basis, doing everything Sgt. Kakuno did, including (as avid Pioneer readers are no doubt aware) penning the ever-popular RCMP report that appears on page 4 of the Pioneer each week. A few weeks ago Witzke finally got at least a bit of respite (and a new byline appeared on the RCMP report) when new Sgt. Ed DeJong arrived in the Columbia Valley.

DeJong brings nearly two decades of policing experience to the role, and much like his predecessors he loves the outdoor lifestyle the Columbia Valley offers.

“It’s been great so far. It’s a beautiful place,” DeJong told the Pioneer, adding he’s an avid golfer, skier and hiker, and is delighted to be able to do all those pursuits in his new home.

DeJong’s most recent posting was in Tsay Keh Dene, a remote and relatively

isolated First Nations community in north central B.C., near Williston Lake. He arrives here with his wife and two small dogs (the couple’s kids are now grown adults, living elsewhere in B.C), and DeJong said the change in climate from northern B.C. to the valley is welcome.

“It’s very temperate and there is a lot of sun. That was a big draw, especially for my wife; the extra sunshine,” said DeJong, adding “the amenities here are great too.” He explained the ample selection of grocery stores, shops and restaurants in Invermere just doesn’t exist back in Tsay Keh Dene.

For DeJong policing is a second career; his first was in the hotel and resort industry. At age 35 he decided to switch and joined the Calgary Police service in 2005. In 2007 he transferred to the RCMP.

DeJong was born in northern B.C, but his dad moved a lot for work, and as a result DeJong grew up all over B.C. and Alberta. Decades later, DeJong found his RCMP career took him on a similar path all over those same two provinces, with multi-year stops in (chronologically) Terrace, Gabriola Island, the Drayton Valley, and Terrace again, before Tsay Keh Dene.

Most of that time was spent as a general duty officer doing front-line policing, before he became a corporal during his

second stint in Terrace, and then a sergeant in Tsay Keh Dene.

“The thing that always drew me to policing was the variety,” said DeJong. “Every day is different. You’re out interacting with the community. And you have a chance to make a real difference.”

DeJong concedes that as a commander some of those benefits are somewhat removed now that he’s “stuck behind the desk a little bit more” but added he finds plenty of appeal in leadership roles.

“I do enjoy the responsibility that comes with that. I enjoy mentoring younger detachment members, helping them learn the job,” he explained, wryly adding that supervisor positions also means less time on the night shift.

Becoming Columbia Valley RCMP sergeant marks the first time DeJong has lived in either the East or West Kootenay (the closest he came was living in Vernon, in the Okanagan, as a kid).

Sergeant Ed DeJong is the new commander of the Columbia Valley RCMP. He brings nearly two decades of policing experience to the job. Photo submitted

RCMP Report

Sgt. Ed DeJong Columbia Valley RCMP

This past week, August 28 to September 4, the Columbia Valley RCMP responded to 94 calls for service. The following is a summary of some of the file our officers responded to:

On August 29, police received a report of a mobility scooter that had been stolen some time in the previous 10 days from downtown Invermere. The scooter is described as a red Victory Model 10.

If anyone has any information regarding the theft or the scooter’s whereabouts, please call the Columbia Valley RCMP or Crimestoppers.

On August 31, a member of the Columbia Valley RCMP was patrolling on Hwy 93-95 near Dry Gulch when they observed a vehicle driving in an abnormal manner. A traffic stop was conducted and the subsequent investigation led to the seizure of a suspected 3D printed

firearm. The driver of the vehicle was released without charge pending the results of the analysis of the suspected firearm.

On September 1, Columbia Valley RCMP received a report of a fraud that had occurred through Facebook Marketplace.

The complainant had found an item he wanted to purchase and agreed to send the seller an e-transfer for the purchase amount, with the seller promising to ship the item to the Columbia Valley. The item was never shipped and the seller’s account has been deleted.

Police provided the victim some tips to prevent getting scammed in the future, such as looking into the seller’s history to see if there are repeat listings for the same items, the length of time the seller has been on the platform (as most scammers will create new accounts regularly), or arranging to meet the seller in a public space to exchange the item for the agreed price.

Parents need to be e-savvy

Columbia Valley Pioneer Staff

Gone are the days when a simple piece of paper from school did the trick. Now, School District 6 is embarking on a project to make forms electronic.

In a recent newsletter, JA Laird Elementary School asked parents to fill out their start-up forms electronically. It says the goal is to “reduce paper consumption” and reduce the risk of losing forms containing sensitive information. Schools also want to reduce the duplication of information and make administrative tasks “less paper intensive.”

For parents who aren’t Internet savvy, they can contact the school for help and even set up one-on-one support.

Instead of reading information on a piece of paper sent home with students, parents are asked to utilize

two free apps to download in order to get information on school events and notifications. The free apps are The SchoolGuide App and the (new) BusStatus App. It is noted that the current bus status app needs to be updated in order to receive notifications after Sept. 29. A helpful setup guide is available at https://sd6.rallyonline.ca/download/375964.

School District 6 is now sharing news on Facebook, and parents are urged to follow the district to stay up to date on busing information and student stories. For example, a recent “we’re hiring” post calls for bus drivers in Invermere. Another outlines that “equity, diversity and inclusion” is a strategic priority in the district.

Parents are also informed that report cards are now changing to align with the curriculum. “These changes mean that report cards might not

look the same as when you were in school,” the district says.

The district has also posted an important reminder for all motorists to be cognizant of school bus safety. Flashing yellow lights mean caution; the bus is preparing to stop. Flashing red lights mean stop; children are boarding or preparing to leave the school bus. “It’s not just an offence to drive past a school bus when the red lights are flashing; it risks the life of a child . . . please don’t rush the bus.”

At Windermere Elementary School, staff participated in many immersive Indigenous learning opportunities, such as visiting St. Eugene’s Resort and the Ktunaxa Interpretive Centre to learn about residential schools. A “blanket exercise” was also on the back-to-school schedule for teachers courtesy of Indigenous education support workers.

Fall highway closure should be the last

By Steve Hubrecht steve@columbiavalleypioneer.com

The Trans-Canada Highway will soon be closed once again between Golden and Field, and once again all cross-country traffic will be re-routed through the Columbia Valley on roads not truly built to handle such volumes of vehicles. This means the risk of traffic accidents will increase.

But valley residents can breathe a sigh of relief because this should be the final such closure and traffic diversion before the Kicking Horse Canyon project is more or less complete.

The project involves substantial and badly-needed upgrades to the Trans-Canada Highway (including making the road at least two lanes in each direction) through a notoriously dangerous stretch (the eponymous Kicking Horse Canyon) in order to make it safer.

These upgrades have caused the complete closure of the Trans-Canada for several weeks to several months each spring and fall, from 2021 onward. As a result, traffic is forced to make an enormous, 200-plus kilometre detour off the Trans-Canada from Castle Junction (near Lake Louise) down Highway 93 south through Kootenay National Park to Radium Hot Springs and from there back up north along Highway 95 up to Golden to rejoin the Trans- Canada.

The first few closures — in spring 2021 and then again in fall 2021 — not only saw an astronomical surge in the amount of traffic pouring into and out of the Columbia Valley but also an accompanying dramatic spike in the number of motor vehicle accidents, many of them very serious. Several horrific and fatal accidents dominated headlines, and anecdotal accounts abounded among valley residents of death-defying near misses and of being run off the road while driving through Kootenay National Park. A number of residents told the Pioneer at the time that they outright refused to drive Highway 93 while the Trans-Canada closures were in effect.

At a Radium council meeting in early 2022, then councillor Mike Gray (he is now mayor) and then councillor Tyler

McCauley pressed provincial officials involved with the project. The officials conceded there were some issues with what they termed “bad behaviour” among drivers but then suggested that council needed to take that issue up with the RCMP.

That exchange left many valley residents spluttering, since then Columbia Valley RCMP Sgt. Darren Kakuno had previously and repeatedly outlined to Invermere and Radium council members that the local RCMP detachment was understaffed and hard pressed to deal with the huge leap in traffic infractions in Kootenay National Park.

“It’s been hard on the detachment. It’s been rough,” Kakuno said at the time. “We don’t have the resources, the bodies we need to properly cover the area. We’re just trying to keep up.”

Eventually, after some lobbying, extra Highway Patrol police officers from Cranbrook and Golden were assigned to patrol Highway 95 between Golden and Radium, and to patrol Highway 93 south through the park. This, in conjunction with better weather in the spring and fall 2022 closures, upgrades to Highway 95, and more flexible timing of the closures (i.e. the Trans-Canada was kept open on busy long weekends in spring and fall) helped reduce some of the problems. Traffic volumes were still very high, and the number of accidents was higher than normal, but not so dramatically as during the 2021 closures.

Still, many local residents continued to dread the closures, and continued to shun travelling on those roads while the re-routing was happening.

No surprise then, that local officials were happy that the work seems nearly done.

“We don’t have official word yet, but we are hoping this might be the last full closure they have . . . from what I understand they are on target to be substantially completed this fall, doing the final pour, and then it may be just cosmetic work in the spring,” said Radium Mayor Mike Gray.

Gray’s sentiments were echoed by Invermere Mayor Al Miller who said he also heard, unofficially, that this will be the final big closure. Continued on page 7

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Sinclair Canyon (shown here) will again be filled with vehicles this fall, when planned closures of the Trans-Canada Highway between Field and Golden will divert cross-country traffic through Radium Hot Springs, but these should be the final such closures.

Photo by Ryan Watmough

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Convoy now convoluted

They may or may not be rebels, but the tough as nails North Shuswap residents defying evacuation orders definitely have a cause.

The group has risen in opposition to authorities in their fight to protect their homes in the Bush Creek East wildfire that has transformed neighbourhoods into a charred celestial apocalypse.

As “freedom convoy” leaders finally answer to charges for taking over downtown Ottawa in 2022, it makes one wonder what this group and other like-minded protesters have been up to these days.

Armed with hoses, shovels and axes, they have been beating back flames to save whatever they can, risking their own safety and that of fire crews, according to government and BC Wildfire officials. Meanwhile, the RCMP are following directives by blocking roads and supplies in the evacuation zone, leaving these people basically cut off from society and the help they need. In one case, supplies bound for this group were stopped and turned around by the police enforcing the order.

Unfortunately, this has turned the situation into an “us vs them” scenario in a time of crisis. How sad.

What immediately comes to mind is their confrontation with RCMP in North Shuswap where a highway checkpoint was set up to stop people from entering a fire evacuation zone. These so-called “truth and freedom” activists challenged the authorities on their right to block the road. The protest reportedly prompted the BC Wildfire Service to pull its crews out of the area.

There have also been reports of missing and/or stolen equipment from BC Wildfire, with the suspicion that these residents are using this inventory to carry on their fight. Desperate people turn to desperate measures.

Observing the futility, many Shuswap homeowners have rallied together to bring supplies to the group by boat, refusing to see their local heroes abandoned in their time of need.

The freedom convoy was born after Canada set COVID-19 restrictions and vaccine mandates to protect citizens during the pandemic. Protesters in many cities gathered to challenge these edicts, saying the public should not be forced to abide by these arbitrary rules, adding that it should be an individual’s choice whether to get the rushed-to-market vaccine injected into their bodies. That argument alone did not seem unreasonable, however, it was countered that the mandates were established for the greater good.

On one hand, we have a band of strong-willed property owners breaking the law by flouting the evacuation order that is designed to protect the safety of everyone in the area. If the fire takes another turn and threatens these people’s lives, fire crews must risk theirs to rescue them. Is that fair to the sons, daughters, wives and husbands of these wildfire crews who are already putting themselves at risk showing up for work each day? No.

Certainly, people have a right to challenge something they feel will negatively impact their health and well-being, but many of these activists went beyond the law and disrupted the lives of millions of people by blocking roadways and disrupting commerce, such was the case in Ottawa. Protesters even set up outside public schools causing confrontations with students and parents, yet another example of this movement entering the realm of inappropriate behaviour.

The convoy had no legitimate reason to gather in the North Shuswap in their attempt to circumvent what the RCMP were tasked to do – protect the safety of the public during an evacuation order that had nothing to do with COVID-19 restrictions or mandates.

On the other hand, these rebels, if you want to call them that, have made the decision to hunker down and protect their assets, with or without help. For various reasons they don’t want to leave their future in the hands of the government, so they are using whatever means necessary to fight until the last drop of water drips out of their hoses. Crazy or commendable, it’s a decision they have made. So at least give them a hand. Don’t abandon them by blocking access to supplies. Don’t put their safety in more jeopardy than it already is. Show a little compassion.

Speaking of which, most if not all of these restrictions have long been lifted, so why are convoys still holding up signs on street corners and waving the Canadian flag? Try living in Syria and see how much freedom you have there.

Interestingly, one researcher told the CBC that without anger and a feeling of injustice, the freedom convoy cannot thrive. Now we see them attaching themselves to any issue as long as it challenges Trudeau and his government.

Here is a shout out to the lone BC Wildfire crew member who apparently saved a West Kelowna home with a garden hose last week. A backyard camera captured him running back and forth extinguishing the approaching flames that the owners thought for sure would destroy their home. A true testament to the dedication of these crews who fight real dragons for a living.

We feel for the chief and 13 members of the Wilson’s Landing fire department who lost their homes during that fire. Even while their own houses were burning down, these firefighters were steadfast in saving other homes down the street. Two that were injured wanted to continue the fight on the next shift.

Lyonel Doherty, editor

Freedom of speech and assembly are cornerstones of democracy and should never be curtailed, and yes, authorities should be questioned when their decisions, such as lockdowns, have a negative impact. But when your actions disrupt, agitate, and intimidate, you have crossed the line and weakened your cause to the point of losing support and respect.

Lyonel Doherty, editor

From left, surveyors Art Duncan, Art Hennigan and O.A. McGuinness relax in a Radium Hot Springs pool in the early 1900s.

Photo provided by the Windermere and District Historical Society

The Royal Canadian Legion Windermere District #71 is pleased to donate to the Windermere Valley Museum $5,500 to assist in the museum’s need to upgrade its computer and related equipment. Legion Vice-President Brian Pilatzke (left) and executive member Madelene Lange (in blue) present the cheque to Museum President Marg Christensen (middle), chairperson of the computer committee Shelley Hopkins (second from left), and Museum Curator JD Jeffery (right).

Photo submitted

Photo shows men and dog at a campsite at the start of surveying for the Banff-Windermere highway in the 1920s.

Photo provided by the Windermere and District Historical Society

Last closure?

Continued from page 5

If that is true that “would be tremendous,” he said.

Miller agreed that Highway 93 south has, at least at times, been quite dangerous during the closures.

“If everybody remains at the speed limit that road could theoretically manage heavy traffic. The problem is there always seems to be somebody who decides they have to drive faster than what is possible. And that’s when things go downhill,” said Miller.

He added the same thing applies on Highway 95 between Radium and Golden; although all the upgrades have made it a beautiful piece of infrastructure “there are some days when it’s fine and there are some days when somebody decides they just can’t wait. And then it becomes problematic.”

With Gray and Miller having both heard things unofficially, what is the official word from those in charge of the project?

A B.C. Ministry of Transportation and Infrastructure spokesperson provided a statement to the Pioneer explaining that “no more multi-day full closures are anticipated after the fall extended closure, which ends just ahead of the Thanksgiving holiday long weekend . . . the project is to be substantially complete by the end of this fall. Remaining work over the winter/early spring 2024 will focus on completing landscaping, fencing, some paved surfaces and line painting.”

The statement confirmed Gray’s understanding that this fall will see the final pour, outlining more specifically that this will “involve pouring of concrete to fill gaps between previously poured bridge and viaduct deck segments.” The ministry went on to add, however, that concrete pours will continue into the fall beyond this fall’s extended closure as barriers and other structural features are completed.

The project was first announced more than four years ago with a target completion date of winter 20232024. At the time many local residents were skeptical about the finish date, and suggested the upgrades would stretch years beyond the initial timeline. But it seems the upgrades will be finished more or less on schedule. The statement from the ministry was quick to credit the contractor for this, noting the contractor had come up with some innovative solutions to keep things moving on track and also explained that the project is exceptional for its size and complexity.

Columbia River-Revelstoke MLA Doug Clovechok was delighted that the closures are to be the last, and pleased the project will be done on time, but noted that it is also $115 million over budget.

The closures this fall will include an extended full closure from noon Sept. 18 to noon Sept. 22; another extended full closure from noon Sept. 25 to noon Oct. 6, a pause for the Thanksgiving long weekend from noon Oct. 6 to noon Oct. 10, and then a combination of 30 minute closures during the day and evening as well as some full nighttime closures between 10 p.m. and 7 a.m. for the rest of the fall.

Wildfires burn valley’s tourism industry

By Steve Hubrecht steve@columbiavalleypioneer.com

The threat posed by the major wildfires still flickering in the Columbia Valley has been dimming since mid-August, and has now receded even further thanks to cool weather and a decent burst of rain last week. But in a case of financial damage instead of physical damage, while the flames crackled and smoke billowed, the valley’s tourism industry — a key part of the local economy — took a hit during a time (the busy summer period) when it is normally at its peak.

Several local officials explained to the Pioneer that even when the trio of fires (collectively known as the Horsethief Complex) were no longer at risk of sweeping through the valley, provincial travel restrictions unfortunately lumped the East Kootenay region in with other parts of the B.C. Interior (which at the time faced much higher risks). This compounded an already difficult situation for local tourism operators and accommodators.

“There definitely has been an impact,” said Pete Bourke from the Columbia Valley Chamber of Commerce, adding this stemmed from both the fires and the travel restrictions. “Sometimes the messaging (about the travel restrictions) seemed to be more broad and not necessarily specific to an area.”

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Invermere Mayor Al Miller offered similar opinions.

“Absolutely there’s been an economic impact. There’s been a lot of room cancellations and the wildfires and smoke were behind that . . . people have decided to cancel their trips to Invermere. Even though the community has been fairly busy this summer, the accommodation industry has been hurt, and I’ve heard from a lot of people. It’s been tough.”

Miller said it was “a little frustrating (that later in the summer) the East Kootenay wasn’t in the same situation as other areas of B.C. in terms of fires. People could have travelled to our area, and enjoyed some activities as long as they stayed away from the problem areas (the restricted areas surrounding the actual fires). But the restrictions applied to us anyway, at least initially.”

In Radium Hot Springs, Tourism Radium executive director Jessica Fairhart concurred that “there definitely has been an impact” but also pointed out that “in the broad scope of the year there have been some positives . . . overall it has been a relatively strong summer. We’ve seen the return of U.S. visitors and the return of international visitors.”

Radium Mayor Mike Gray also owns the Horsethief Creek Pub and Eatery and estimated that, while the Horsethief Creek fire on Mount Bruce was burning

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and casting significant amounts of smoke over the valley, business at the pub was down “10 to 25 per cent depending on the day, and that plunged to 50 per cent during the travel restrictions . . . the travel restrictions were definitely a thing in terms of economic impact.”

Gray was quick to add that he completely understands and supports the need for such travel restrictions when they are necessary, and said he heard that in some other parts of B.C. it was hard to find any kind of accommodation for wildland firefighters on hand to battle fires.

“If BCWS needs places to stay, or if residents under evacuation orders are displaced, yes, of course we will set down our economy and make sure they are covered,”

said Gray. “But, in this case, the problem was that the rooms and resources were not needed for firefighters or for evacuees, and in the end our economy paid a sort of collateral damage.”

Both Miller and Gray were quick to credit Columbia River-Revelstoke MLA Doug Clovechok for his hard work to have the travel restrictions lifted for the East Kootenay, and said his efforts helped make sure the associated economic hit did not become a prolonged slump.

Gray said that currently, with the fires much abated and the restrictions long since lifted, business at the pub is still “slower than normal, but it’s not catastrophic.”

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Wildfires definitely had an impact on the local economy (tourism) this summer.

Photo by Ryan Watmough

RDEK seeks public input for trails plan

By Steve Hubrecht steve@columbiavalleypioneer.com

The Regional District of East Kootenay (RDEK) is keen to create more trails, but wants public feedback on how best to go about it. To that end, the RDEK has launched an online survey.

The trails would be part of that Columbia Valley Active Transportation Plan that the regional government is working to develop.

such as walking, biking, skateboarding, in-line skates, as well as wheelchairs or other wheel-based forms of human-powered self-propulsion.

Clovechok emphasized that such alternative methods of transportation are important and need to be accessible to everyone.

The survey will help inform the plan as will input from a technical committee. The planning process should be finished some time in early 2024. The resulting plan will provide a long-term framework on how best to connect the Columbia Valley’s communities and is meant to help the RDEK prioritize projects.

ready and we can hit send and go for those opportunities. Will it take 20 to 25 years to make it happen? Who knows, that will depend on what funding opportunities do come up. We need to make sure what we do makes sense.”

RDEK Area G director Roberta Schnider said, “We want to hear from as many residents and trail users in the Columbia Valley as possible. Public engagement in the survey and throughout the planning process is extremely important as residents have the most knowledge on how the trails are currently used and what future opportunities could look like.”

a healthy lifestyle and emitting less carbon into the atmosphere. When I was out campaigning (during the municipal election) one of the topics was bike paths for Area G. This could be one of the pieces in that puzzle. Imagine a path (or) plan that connects communities from Spillimacheen to Canal Flats and includes Wilmer and Panorama (and) what that could do for recreation, work force and with zero emissions? Amazing.”

What kind of trails, and where would they be? Well, that’s what the RDEK wants to find out from Columbia Valley residents.

“Personally I think active transport is something people really want. That’s what I’m hearing on the ground. But we need to validate that through this survey and to find out where we can have the biggest impact,” RDEK Area F director Susan Clovechok told the Pioneer last week. Active transportation includes any type of human-powered transportation,

“It’s exciting. Ideally we’d be able to connect Spillimacheen to Canal Flats. But we need the input and the support of residents,” said Clovechok. “We want to know how people are using active transportation, what is their preferred mode of active transportation, how far do they go, where do they go, what improvements do they want to see, and what challenges are there stopping people from using active transportation.”

While connecting the entire Columbia Valley through a trail network would be amazing, Clovechok did concede that would take “a lot of time and a lot of money. That’s why it has to be a phased approach. If we have a plan in place, when funding opportunities come up, we’re

Schnider told the Pioneer that “not only are we connecting communities in the Columbia Valley, we are promoting

The survey runs until Oct. 16. To access the survey and to find out more about the project, visit engage.rdek.bc. ca/ActiveTransportationCV. If you don’t have access to a computer, hard copies are available at the RDEK’s Columbia Valley office.

“It’s exciting. Ideally we’d be able to connect Spillimacheen to Canal Flats”

Susan Clovechok, Area F director

Photo by Ryan Watmough

OUT OF OFFICE… Invermere Mural Project

The District of Invermere is undergoing an artistic makeover with the Invermere Mural Project. Supported by funding from the Resort Municipality Initiative (RMI), this project is all about enhancing the town’s tourism appeal and showcasing its unique character through art.

The Invermere Mural Project is an exciting endeavor that blends art and community spirit. Through a series of captivating murals, it aims to capture Invermere’s rich history, local culture, and natural beauty. These murals create an open-air art gallery that adds an artistic flair to the town.

Local businesses are encouraged to get involved in this project. The RMI program offers to cover up to 75% of the mural’s cost, with a maximum grant of $5,000. This means that local businesses can participate by contributing to the remaining costs. “The Legion is honoured to have been accepted to receive a grant to have a mural made” Says Marius Hoofd, President of the Invermere Legion. “Local artist Kelsey van Raay has created a design that embodies the Legion theme of remembrance. We could not do this without the support of Mr. Doug Kipp, owner of Lambert-Kipp Pharmacy and our Columbia Valley Chamber of Commerce.”

Collaborating with local artists not only beautifies business premises but also fosters a sense of community and creativity within Invermere. It’s a great opportunity for businesses to be part of

something bigger. Kelsey van Raay, pictured below is an experienced artist and muralist living in Invermere. “It is really great to have the local government supporting public art. As I am painting, lots of people are passing by and commenting how great it is. The reception from the community has been great”

The Invermere Mural Project is not just about aesthetics; it’s also an economic opportunity. These murals are expected to attract tourists and art enthusiasts, which can benefit local businesses. As visitors explore the town to admire the murals, they’ll also support local shops and restaurants.

The Invermere Mural Project is a limited time initiative but there is still an opportunity for businesses to apply for the RMI grant. By joining this project, businesses can enhance their image and tap into the growing number of tourists and art enthusiasts visiting Invermere.

The Invermere Mural Project is a testament to the power of art and community collaboration. Thanks to RMI support, Invermere is on its way to becoming an even more attractive destination. If you’re a local business looking to be part of this artistic transformation, now is the time to get involved. To apply for a mural grant or for more information, email Theresa Wood at advisor@cvchamber.ca

Thursday,September7

•10:00am-12:00pm:OutdoorPickleball Mt.Nelson AthleticPark,Drop-inPlay.

•10:30am-11:30am:Senior’sFitness ColumbiaValley Centre,$2drop-in.

•2:00pm:LadiesGolfDay CopperPointGolfCourse(every Thursdayofsummer).Play9or18holes,call250-341-3392 tolearnmore.

•2:00pm-3:00pm:Needles&Hooks.InvermereLibrary. Joinusonthe1st&3rdThursdayofeachmonthat2:00pm forNeedles&Hooks.Bringyourcurrentyarnprojectand meetwithothermakers.Allwelcome!

•6:30pm:IndoorPickleball InvermereCurlingClub. AdvancePlay.

•6:45pm:TexasHold‘EmPoker InvermereLegion.

•7:30pm:TriviaNight WindermereWhitehousePub.

Friday,September8

•9:00am-11:00am:InvermereTennisClub attheKinsmen BeachCourts.

•10:00am-12:00pm:OutdoorPickleball Mt.Nelson AthleticPark,Drop-inPlay.

•10:30am-11:30am:Pop-upStorytime.SerenityFarms Windermere.HostedbyInvermerePublicLibrary

•2:00pm-3:30pm:WildWoolies.RadiumHotSprings PublicLibrary.Whetheryouareaseasonedcrocheteror youarepickingupasetofknittingneedlesforthefirst time,everyoneiswelcometosharetechniques,enjoy friendlyconversation,andlearnanewskill.

•6:00pm-7:00pm:CoffeeClub.StolenChurchGelato& Coffee.Connectingthe2LGBTQiA+community.Let'sget toknoweachother!Joinusforacoffeeortwothesecond Fridayofeverymonth,6-7PM.

•6:30pm-close:MeatDrawand50/50 intheLegion! Membersandguestswelcome!

•6:30pm-8:30pm:IndoorPickleball InvermereCurling Club.

•6:30pm-8:30pm:DynamicArcherySpeedShooting. CometryArcheryatLuxorCorrals.Call250-347-9048to register.

Saturday,September9

•9:00am-1:00pm:InvermereFarmersMarket Lakeview ParkingLot.

•10:00am-12:00pm:OutdoorPickleball Mt.Nelson AthleticPark,Drop-inPlay.

•10:30am-12:00pm:LEGO/DuploClub InvermerePublic Library.We'llhaveLego,Duplo,bigblocks&moreoutto playwithonSaturdaymornings!

•10:30am-11:30am:PokemonClub atMainStreetFun& Gamesforages7+,Readingproficiencyrequired.

•10:30am-11:00am:FamilyStorytime.InvermerePublic Library.JoinusweeklyonFridaysand/orSaturdaysfor FamilyStorytimeatthelibrary!Withstories,songs&a craft.Gearedtowardspreschoolage(2-5)butallwelcome.

•11:00am-12:00pm:BacktoSchoolCraft.RadiumHot SpringsPublicLibrary.Joinusforafunbacktoschool themedcraft/activity!Ages5+

•2:00pm-4:00pm:BuddyReading.InvermerePublic Library.30minOne-on-onereadingsessionwithlibrary staffmember,Blair,whohasmorethantenyearsof readingtutorexperience.Byappointment,publiclibrary@ invermere.net.

•6:30pm:MeatDrawand50/50 intheLegion!Members andguestswelcome!

Sunday,September10

•2:00pm-12:00am:Cards,CribbageandDarts Come totheLegionandhavesomefun!Membersandguests welcome.

•2:00pm-4:00pm:IndoorPickleball OpenplayatCurling Club.

•7:00pm:LiveMusicHorsethiefCreekPub&Eatery. Accompaniedminorsarepermitted.Nocover.

Monday,September11

•9:00am-11:00am:TennisClub KinsmenBeach,doubles.

•10:00am-12:00pm:OutdoorPickleball.Mt.Nelson AthleticPark,Drop-inPlay.

•10:00am-11:00am:Senior'sYoga ColumbiaValley Centre,Invermere.$2dropin,opentoallseniors.

•6:30pm:Poker(ChipupforCharity).TheStationPub $20buy-in.EverysecondMonday.

•6:30pm-8:30pm:IndoorPickleball.InvermereCurling Club.

•6:30pm-8:30pm:DynamicArcherySpeedShooting CometryArcheryatLuxorCorrals.Call250-347-9048to register.

•5:00pm-10:00pm:LGBTQ+&Allies attheHub.Summit YouthHub.OnMondaysattheHUB,theLGBTQ+youth andtheirallieshaveasafeplacetohangout.

Tuesday,September12

•10:00am-12:00pm:OutdoorPickleball. Mt.Nelson AthleticPark,Drop-inPlay.

•10:30am-11:30am:Senior'sFitness ColumbiaValley Centre.$2drop-in.

•6:30pm-8:30pm:IndoorPickleball InvermereCurling Club,SkillsandDrills.

•m:Pickleball InvermereCurlingClub,SkillsandDrills.

Wednesday,September13

•9:00am-11:00am:TennisClub KinsmenBeachCourts.

•10:00am-12:00pm:OutdoorPickleball. Mt.Nelson AthleticPark,Drop-inPlay.

•10:00am-11:00am:Senior'sYoga ColumbiaValley Centre,$2drop-in.

•11:15am-11:45am:StoryTime.RadiumHotSprings PublicLibrary-preschool&allages.

•6:00pm-9:00pm:WednesdayDinners&MeatDraw& 50/50 InvermereLegion.Allwelcome.

•6:30pm:IndoorPickleball InvermereCurlingClub, LadiesNight.

•7:00pm-9:00pm:InvermereCommunityDrumCircle Pynelogs.Setfreeyourinnerrhythm,connectwithyour community,andletthebeatmoveyou!Getyourtickets here: https://rhythmbynature.ca/drum-circles/

Métis speak out against sterilization

By Julia Magsombol Local Journalism Initiative julia@columbiavalleypioneer.com

In this century, forced sterilization in Canada is no longer in effect, but there have been recent reports of sterilization in some places, according to the President of Women of the Métis Nation.

“It's still ongoing,” said Melanie Omeniho. “Our women have been impacted by this, and in many instances, are not even aware that they've been impacted by it.”

Omeniho stated that Indigenous women represent Mother Earth, and they bring life. They are sacred and powerful beings. However, this concept has been disrupted because of coerced sterilization.

It refers to the practice of sterilizing Indigenous women without informed consent. The Sexual Sterilization Act was in effect or passed in British Columbia in 1933, ending in 1973.

Under the Act, a board of Eugenics, people who aim to improve the human population through breeding, believed that Indigenous women should undergo genetic editing and screen fetuses for disabilities. However, in one study, it was concluded that racism and sexism were the result of this coerced sterilization and perpetuated violence against Indigenous women and girls.

Based on the studies of the Women of the Métis Nation, this forced sterilization has been a targeted practice in Canada that is rooted in colonialism.

See https://metiswomen.org/wp-con-

tent/uploads/2021/06/Forced-Sterilization-Report.pdf

Women of the Métis Nation and Omeniho have been working diligently to raise awareness of this issue.

"The work that we've done is to develop and create awareness amongst Métis women so that they have an understanding of their right to their bodies and the right to have free choice, which are the same rights that everybody else in this country takes for granted, which isn't always available for Indigenous women," Omeniho explained. "And we've also been, in the meantime, advocating and lobbying the government, if there needs to be consequences for medical people that do this, and that there should even be criminal charges against people that take these kinds of actions.”

Unfortunately, although forced sterilization has ended, it did not end for some hospitals and clinics.

In November 2019, it was reported that Dr. Andrew Kotaska, a former clinical director of obstetrics at Stanton Territorial Hospital in Yellowknife, removed the left fallopian tube of a 37-year-old Indigenous woman during her surgery. The woman consented in writing only to have her right fallopian tube and ovary removed. The patient filed a civil lawsuit against Kotaska and the Northwest Territories Health and Social Services Authority in April 2021. For more information, read:https:// www.cbc.ca/news/canada/north/nwt-doctor-complaint-ruling-1.6298184

Omeniho also mentioned a recent allegation of forced sterilization in 2022 and

early 2023 in Quebec. A lawsuit was filed Aug. 21 regarding two doctors identified as R.M. and Y.B., and from the estate of a third, M.T. All three of whom the plaintiffs say committed coerced sterilization.

The plaintiffs gave birth five times in the hospital and were allegedly given tubal ligations after their fifth births. They denied having consented to these sterilizations.

For more information, read: https:// montreal.ctvnews.ca/quebec-court-authorizes-class-action-over-alleged-sterilization-of-indigenous-women-1.6529550

"They shouldn't be doing this, it's a further genocide of Indigenous women, just like missing and murdered Indigenous women and girls," said Omeniho.

Omeniho added that the Women of the Métis Nation also support the healing of women who've been impacted by death. She met some of the victims.

"Some of them are very, very hurt. Some are very strong advocates and allies trying to educate young Indigenous women about their rights. But some of them are still suffering and are angry over what has happened to them and that the issues and decisions taken out of their hands are impacting their lives …. for the rest of their lives. There's a lot of work that needs to be done in the healing," she said.

Omeniho added that these women feel their stories aren't being heard. Sadly, she also explained that many Indigenous women are going up against medical professions around the world. The fact is racism exists in the Canadian healthcare system which is difficult to combat.

She mentioned that she's glad these issues are starting to come to light, but it's heartbreaking to hear this kind of news. "I am crushed because they're hurting," she lamented. Continued on page page 13

Melanie Omeniho, president of the Women of the Métis Nation, is still concerned about the alleged practice of coerced sterilization of Indigenous women.

Photo submitted

Women continue to face abuse

Continued from page 12

This challenging situation has impacted Omeniho in many ways. She noted that her great-grandmother is a midwife and she’s proud of her for helping many Indigenous women give birth in the past. And now that she's in a more civilized and developed society, it's heartbreaking to see many women suffer in these painful circumstances.

"I'm sitting here watching women who are being challenged, and even how women are being treated medically, to find support. It has impacted me. I have three daughters. I have two grand-daughters. I come from a large line of Métis matriarchs. And it offends me that those privileges that other communities seem to have and take for granted are taken

away from these very women." she added.

What's upsetting is that the government has compensated the victims with money, but this is not enough for these women, Omeniho pointed out.

"What they've done is not going to repair or be enough money to heal them,” she said.

Regarding these recent allegations, it hasn’t been decided what will happen to these doctors. But Omeniho believes that they should be punished and they should give compensation to their victims.

"Indigenous people are resilient. No matter what, we're still here. We're still moving forward, and we're not going away. We are strong; we are resilient." She added that peo-

ple need to listen to women and let them tell their stories.

"I hope people stop treating Indigenous women like they're a part of a disposable society. That's what I learned. That's what my hopes and dreams are. I hope that my granddaughters and great-granddaughters and the future generations behind me won't have to go through the same issues we've dealt with in our lifetime."

Omeniho stressed that we have to give these women the power to move forward and heal from all of this.

For more information, visit: https://metiswomen.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/06/Forced-Sterilization-Report.pdf Women of the Metis Nation says that forced sterilization of Indigenous women is still a problem that needs to be addressed.

NOTICE: The Columbia Valley Food Bank won’t be at the Radium Show and Shine this year to accept donations.

To donate, please drop by the food bank on Friday, September 15th from 11am to 4pm, during the Show & Shine Poker Run!

WatermainFlushing

Themunicipalitywillbeflushingitscommunitywatersystemfor thenext6weeksbetweenSeptember5th andOctober10th. Thisprogram,carriedouttwiceyearly,isnecessarytomaintain thequalityofourwatersupply.Theremaybesomeshort interruptionsinthewaterserviceandtemporarydiscoloration ofwaterasaresultofthesedimentandorganicmaterialsthat arebeingflushedfromthewatermains.Duringthisperiod, disinfectionbychlorinationwillbecontinued.Toassistthe PublicWorksDepartmentduringtheflushingoperation,users areadvisedthatiftheyareexperiencingpersistentdiscoloration orodourproblemswiththewater,toimmediatelynotifythe MunicipalOfficeandexplainthenatureoftheproblem. TheDistrictapologizesforanyinconveniencescausedbythis operation.Forfurtherinformation,pleasetelephonethe municipalofficeat250-342-9281.

SalmonFestival

ShuswapBandwouldliketoinviteyoutocelebratewithus:

•HandDrummers

•ColumbiaRiverHeadwaterDanceTroup

•HoopDancePerformance

•Vendors

Photo by Getty Images

P IONEER C LASSIFIEDS

THORNTON DavidSidney

August24,1945

~August25,2023

DavidwasborninEngland andcametoCanadaasababy withhismotherRose.

Alcoholics Anonymous. If alcohol is causing problems or conict 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.

Narcotics Anonymous Open Meeting

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

DaviddiedinInvermereDistrictHospitalaftera shortanddifficultillness.

HeissurvivedbyhislovingwifeJudyPocha (Thornton),daughterSandraEastbrook,sonShane (Sharon)Thornton,stepchildrenSharon(Chris) Murray,GregPocha.

DavidwaspredeceasedbyhisfatherSidney Thornton,hismotherRoseThorntonandsonDavid ThorntonJr.

Davidwasadozeroperatorandenjoyedhisjobfor manyyearsondifferentjobsiteshereinthevalley andnumerousareasaroundtheprovince.Healways lovedmovingmoundsofmaterialandcuttinggrade withhisdozer.

In1983Davemethispartnerandtheloveof hislife,JudyPocha.Theymadetheirfirsthomein Wilmer,BCforafewyears,thenofftoInvermere, BCfor12years,thenmovedtoRadium,BCwhere hedevelopedhisgreenthumbandcreatedabeautiful oasisforhimselfandJudy.

Davewasakindandcaringhusbandwholovedto visitandsharehismanyfunfilledlifestorieswith familyandfriends.

Daveadoredandlovedspendingasmuchtime ashecouldwithhismanygrandchildrenandgreat grandchildren,theybroughtgreatjoyandpleasureto him.

Asperhisrequest,therewillbenoservice.

ShwedOrestNicholas

Oct.26,1932-Sept.11,2012

Rememberingyouiseasy Wedoiteveryday

Missingyouisthehardestpart

Asitnevergoesaway

Tohearyourvoice

Toseeyoursmile Tositwithyou

Andtalkforawhile, wouldbe

Ourgreatestwish

Today,tomorrow

Ourwholelifethrough Weshallalwayslove Andrememberyou.

Youwillforeverbeinour hearts.Yourlovingfamily.

David’sfamilywouldliketothankDr.Simonand stafffromE.K.D.H.inCranbrook,Dr.Walsh,the nursesandstaffofInvermereDistrictHospitalforthe kindnessandcareshowntoDaveduringthisvery difficulttime.Weappreciateallthatwasdoneforhim. Thankyou.

CHEERS WITHOUT TEARS

A huge THANK YOU and cheers to Christina at the Columbia Valley Pioneer. She is amazing to work with and a great friend too!

Cheers and more Cheers to Christine and her team at Invermere McDonalds. Everyone is so friendly and always call me by name. They go above and beyond to provide good customer service. Cheers to all of you!

CHEERS WITHOUT TEARS

Cheers to Brittany at Invermere Health Centre. You were very patient and kind and answered all my endless questions. You are awesome!

MacDONALD STEWARTROSS

March7,1957–June8,2023

LovingmemoryofRossMacDonald,whopassedin theearlyhoursofJune8.

AcrossaParksCanada careerspanningthirty fouryears,Ross’proudest accomplishmentwas theDavidThompson BicentennialCelebration whichheco-createdand stewardedforovera decade.TheCelebration commemorated Canada’shistory,built ontheinfluenceofplaceandpeople.Itincluded internationalprojects,documentaries,books,scholarly work,eventsindozensofcommunities,andtwocrosscountrycanoetrips.

RecentyearshaveseenRosstakeontheroleof FestivalPresidentforWingsOvertheRockiesNature Festival,amongthelargestnaturefestivalsinCanada. Thisyearthefestivalhostedmorethan100eventsover sevendays.

ThosewhoknewRosswillrememberhisquick wit,infectiouslaugh,andalife-longpassionfor photography.Hewasnevermorealivethanbehinda camera.

Rossissurvivedbywife(Eloise),son(Bren), brothers(NeilandBruce),niece(Shauna),andnephew (Evan).

Athisrequestaformalservicewillnotbeheld,but thosewantingtohonourRossareinvitedtoplantatree inhismemory.

CHEERS WITHOUT TEARS

Cheers to Sarah for bringing treats to the office on Friday of the September long weekend. What a kind gesture, so thoughtful of you!

To the guy with the coiffed hair playing poker at the Legion on August 31-you really missed your calling. You should be in Vegas lighting it up. The new Daniel Negreanu it would seem.

Cheers to Ricky M. for being such a kind and thoughtful person. I love the goodies you drop off at the office for me. You are a special lady!

ACREAGES FOR SALE

2.5 to 3.4 acre parcels. Great mountain views, privacy, individual wells, no building time commitment. Located on sunny side of the Valley. Starting at $329,000 + GST For more information contact Elkhorn Ranches 250-342-1268 www.elkhornranches.com

LESSONS/TRAINING

Cheers to Heather at Saunders Specialty Foods. Your butter tarts

DirectorofProgramManagement

Hours:upto30hoursperweek

Startdate:ASAP

Duties: TheDirectorofProgramManagementplans, develops,implementsandoverseestheday-to-day operationofthedirectserviceprogramsdeliveredbythe FamilyDynamix.TheDirectorofProgramManagementwill providedaytodaysupervisionofprogramstaff.

Qualifications: Degreeinarelatedhuman/socialservice fieldispreferred.

TrainingandExperience: Three(3)yearsrecent relatedexperienceincluding(2)yearssupervisoryand administrativeexperience,oranequivalentcombinationof education,trainingandexperience.

Applicationprocessanddeadline

Submitaresumeandcoverletterto:

PatCope ExecutiveDirector Pcope@fdx.family by 4:00p.m.,September5,2023.

Barista/SalesPerson

Part-time/Full-time

CareerOpportunity

foracheerful,responsible, energeticteammemberwho wouldenjoyservingourcustomers andlovesfreshpastriesandcoffee. Ifyouliketoworkinawelcoming, quick-paced,creativeenvironmentwith incentiveswewouldlovetohearfromyou! ApplywitharesumeattheBakeryStore ore-mailtooffice@invermerebakery.com

TheInvermereBakery

DowntownInvermere

Open8am-4pm

phone250-342-4422 fax250-342-4439 invermerebakery.com

ShuswapBandishiring!

Ourcurrentlyopenpositionsinclude:

•GeneralManager,KHL

•Receptionist

•CommunityNurse (matleavecover)

•ShuttleDriver

Comejoinourdynamicteamandenjoyaflexible workenvironment,health&wellnessbenefits, anemployer-matchedpensionplan,2weeksoff atChristmasplus2weeksvacation,abi-weekly healthyfoodbox,andmore!

Visitourwebsiteat: www.shuswapband.net/employment-opportunities/ oremail: HR@shuswapband.ca formoreinformation.

Receptionist/OfficeAssistant

Big Horn Café, Radium Hot Springs- Looking for Full time and/or Part time Barista also includes light food prep. If you're interested in joining a dynamic fun team. Shifts are doing the day there is some exible as to the shift –de nitely No evenings. Negotiable per hour wage and bene ts. Please apply at bighorncafe1@outlook.com or phone 403-861-2978

B.B.'s Home & Design Services Renovations, Masonry & Handyman Services, Blinds, Housechecks/ yard / window/ eavestrough cleaning/ dump runs. 250-688-2897

Shane's Window Cleaning " GET A NEW VIEW " Call/ Text today for your free quote. 250-341-5884

THE HEARTFELT COMPANION: Services for Seniors

2 bedroom farm house in Fairmont Hot Springs adjacent to Funtasia Fun Park available October 15 to March 31. Conditional to taking care of the animals and light snow removal. (1.5 – 3 hours daily) Rent $790 + utilities. Contact Tanya 250 342 5165 or funtasia@shaw.ca with resume. No smoking, no pets.

DON’T LOSE YOUR LOCAL NEWS

Since 2014 we've provided kind and compassionate non-medical care, transportation to Cranbrook, overnight care, meal prep, grocery shopping and more. Excellent local references. 250-341-5683 Heartfeltcompanionservices.com

Radium Suite for Rent

Radium newly renovated, unfurnished 3 bedroom suite. $1550 with water/sewer included, hydro/internet excluded. Apply through Tenancy page on cvhousingsociety.ca

LifeSkillsWorker-YouthWithSpecialNeeds

FamilyDynamixislookingforanexperiencedtemporarypart-time Receptionist/OfficeAssistanttojoinourteamofvibrant,sincere,and professionalindividuals.

Position: TemporaryPart-time

Hours: 22hoursaweekuntilDecember31,2023

Location: Women’sServices

Duties: Provideavarietyofreception,generalclericalassistancefortheFamily Dynamix,wherecommunity-basedprogramsandservicesaredelivered. Maintainsvariousrecords,files,andrelatedfilingsystems.

Qualifications: Grade12diploma,plussixmonthsrecentexperienceingeneral officework.Oranequivalentcombinationofeducation,training,andexperience. Mustbeabletoworkinateamenvironment.Demonstrablemultitaskingabilityin abusyofficeenvironmentandworkingwellwiththepublic.Proficiencyneeded incomputerandofficeskills,MicrosoftWord,Excel,andPublishersoftware. MicrosoftAccesswouldbeanasset.

Applicationprocess: SubmitaresumeandcoverlettertoUteJuras,Directorof ProgramManagement,FamilyDynamixAssociationat ujuras@fdx.family,or Box 2289,Invermere,BC.,V0A1K0 by 4pmonMonday,September18,2023.

P.S. Wethankallapplicantsfortheirinterest,howeveronlythoseshortlistedfor interviewwillbecontacted.

Position: Permanentpart-time(8hoursperweek)

ShiftSchedule: Weekdays,eveningsandweekendsasrequired

StartDate: Immediately

Duties: Providesdirectgoal-orientedassistancetoyouthbetween13and18 yearsofagewhohaveadevelopmentaldisabilityor,haveadiagnosisofAutism SpectrumDisorder.Thisassistancecanincludethedevelopmentofappropriate social,lifeorotherparticularskillsbytheyouth,supportingindividualswith workexperienceactivitiesinthecommunityand/orthedevelopmentofchild managementorotherparentingskillstofamilies.

Qualifications: Preferablyadiplomainarelevantdiscipline,withoneyear ofrelatedjobexperience.Otherappropriatecombinationsofeducationand experiencemaybeconsidered.AvalidB.C.driver’slicenseisessential.Pursuant toprovinciallegislation,theapplicantmustagreetoundergoacriminalrecords investigation.FOODSAFELevel1certificationorwillingnesstogetitdoneisa requirementofthejob.

Applicationprocess: SubmitaresumeandcoverlettertoUteJuras,Directorof ProgramManagement,FamilyDynamixAssociationat ujuras@fdx.family,or Box 2289,Invermere,BC.,V0A1K0 by 4pmonMonday,September18,2023.

P.S. Wethankallapplicantsfortheirinterest,howeveronlythoseselectedforinterview willbecontacted.

NOTICEOFINTENT

TEMPORARYUSEPERMIT23.01

LOT10,DISTRICTLOT375KOOTENAYDISTRICTPLANNEP14927

PID009-606-815(SUBJECTPROPERTY)

TheDistrictofInvermereisconsideringaTemporaryUsePermit application,TUP23.01,byNorthInvermereHoldingsInc.to:

VaryZoningBylawNo.1145,2002Section5.24(1)LightIndustrial ZonepermittedUsestoallow:

•Theconversionofanexistingofficebuildingintoa4(four) bedroomsharedrentallivingspaceforemployeesandothers inhousingneed.Residentialusebeyondacaretakerunitisnot currentlyapermittedusewithintheM-1LightIndustrialZone.

•TheremainderoftheLightIndustrialProperty,includingtheshop andland,tobeleasedseparately.

TemporaryUsePermitshaveatermofuptothreeyearswithone extensionforanadditionalthreeyearspossible.

TUP23.01isbeingproposedatthelocationillustratedbelow:

Rev your engines for Show and Shine

By Steve Hubrecht steve@columbiavalleypioneer.com

One of the biggest dates on the Columbia Valley’s events calendar is just around the corner: the Show and Shine Classic Car Show hosted by the Columbia Valley Classic Car Club next weekend.

This year’s show will be the 33rd edition of the long-standing annual event, and the Show and Shine promises to be as big as ever.

Organizers are expecting more than 800 cars this year, said Columbia Valley Classic Car Club member Pete Jensen, adding that the car show has attracted as many as 1,000 cars in the past.

“We’ve heard that a lot of the motels are already booked full for that weekend, and that’s a good sign” said Jensen.

The fun this year will start on Friday, Sept. 15 with the Columbia Valley Classic Poker Run from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. The Show and Shine is the next day (Saturday, Sept. 16) at The Springs course driving range from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. There will be a volunteer firefighter’s pancake breakfast at the Radium hall on Sept 16 from 7 a.m. to 10:30 a.m. at the Radium Hot Springs Centre and the Radium Rotary Club will host a Show and Shine dance at the centre that night from 8 p.m. to midnight.

Registration is from 7 p.m. to 9 p.m. on Friday, Sept. 15 or at the gates of the Springs when entering the car show on Sept. 16.

The Poker Run will involve seven stops – at each stop participants will get one playing card. They then use their best five cards as their poker hand. The top

CouncilwillconsiderTemporaryUsePermitTUP23.01atitsregular meetingonSeptember12,2023.CouncilMeetingsareinpersonand heldattheDistrictofInvermereoffice,914-8thAvenueat7:00pmMT. Ifyoubelievethispermitaffectsyourinterestintheproperty,youmay attendtheSeptember12th,2023meetingandvoiceyourinterestfor considerationduringthePublicCommentPeriod,alternatively,you mayfaxwrittencommentsto(250)342-2934,emailthemtoplanning@ invermere.netordropthemoffattheDistrictofInvermereOfficeby Friday,September8that12:00pmnoon.

YoumayinspecttheproposednotificationforTUP23.01attheDistrict ofInvermerewebsitehttps://invermere.net/news/ Toobtainmoreinformation,pleasecontactRoryHromadnik,Director ofDevelopmentServicesat(250)3429281,ext.1235orplanning@ invermere.net

DATEDthis7thDayofAugust2023

RoryHromadnik, DevelopmentServices

three hands will win prizes.

“We’ve got friends who come to be part of the show from Washington State, from Alberta, the Northwest Territories, even from Manitoba. People just seem to love it,” said Jensen.

Part of the appeal may lie in the unique setting, he explained. “Most car shows are on pavement. The Show and Shine is on grass, on the driving range. It’s different and it is beautiful.”

For those who love classic cars “it’s a sort of a sickness. A good sickness,” conceded Jensen with a laugh. “I’ve been into classic cars all my life. As soon as I sell one, I get another . . . some of it might come down to a sort of nostalgia. You see all these old cars driving around Radium and Invermere that weekend, and it looks like something straight out of the 1950s or 1960s.”

The Show and Shine benefits many local businesses, especially gas stations, restaurants and accommodators, noted Jensen.

“We hope everybody has fun and stays safe,” he added.

Radium Mayor Mike Gray is excited to have the car show back, saying that “it is a keystone event for Radium and for the whole Columbia Valley. The fun it brings is great, and the economic impact is a big deal. It’s an economic shot in the arm we are excited to have, especially after this summer (when wildfires impacted tourism).”

The Show and Shine will go ahead weather permitting. For more information visit columbiavalleyclassics.ca/

Don’t miss the Show and Shine Classic Car Show hosted by the Columbia Valley Classic Car Club starting on Friday, Sept. 15.

Photo by Ryan Watmough

Conservation fund accepting 2024 proposals

Golden; natural and human-made habitat enhancements for bats by the Wildlife Conservation Society Canada; stewardship of important habitat on agricultural lands through the Farmland Advantage program via the Windermere District Farmers’ Institute; mitigating the risk of disease transmission to bighorn sheep populations by the Wildsheep Society of BC; preserving biodiversity in the internationally recognized Columbia Wetlands by the Columbia Wetlands Stewardship Partners; treatment of the invasive plant leafy spurge by the East Kootenay Invasive Species Council; and wetland restoration and environmental training for Indigenous youth by the BC Wildlife Federation and Shuswap Band.

KCP, which works in partnership with the RDEK to administer the fund, is encouraging non-profit organizations and Indigenous nations operating in the

Columbia Valley to submit funding proposals for 2024 projects. Community groups and individuals can also apply by partnering with an eligible organization. If you have a new project idea, it is highly recommended that you contact KCP prior to submitting an application to discuss your project idea.

The deadline for applying is 4:30 p.m. MT on Oct. 31, 2023. In November, a Technical Review Committee will review project proposals and make recommendations to the RDEK directors for final funding approval.

For more information and how to apply, visit https://kootenayconservation.ca/columbia-valley-local-conservation-fund/. For phone or email inquiries, contact KCP Local Conservation Fund Coordinator Kendal Benesh at 1-844775-2722 (Ext. 203) or kendal@kootenayconservation.ca.

By Kootenay Conservation Program

Kootenay Conservation Program (KCP), on behalf of the Regional District of East Kootenay (RDEK), is now accepting 2024 project proposals for the Columbia Valley Local Conservation Fund.

“The Columbia Valley Local Conservation Fund (CVLCF) supports local projects that help conserve the valley’s fish and wildlife habitat, water quality and other conservation values,” says Kendal Benesh, KCP Local Conservation Fund Coordinator. “For $20 per parcel per year, landowners are helping conserve and restore the Columbia Valley’s world-renowned natural areas.”

The CVLCF is a tax-based service

that provides dedicated financial support (each year) to local projects ranging from ecosystem restoration and invasive species control, to wildlife conservation, water quality monitoring, and more. From 2010 to 2022, the CVLCF disbursed 110 grants totalling $2.68 million. This funding has helped raise nearly nine times that amount in additional grants and in-kind contributions — a substantial return on initial investment.

In 2023, 10 projects successfully received CVLCF funding: lake monitoring and education on Columbia Lake and Lake Windermere by the Columbia Lake Stewardship Society and the Lake Windermere Ambassadors; habitat enhancement for at-risk swallows by Wildsight

ColumbiaValley LocalConservationFund RequestforProposals

KootenayConservationProgram(KCP)andtheRegionalDistrictofEastKootenay(RDEK)areseeking proposalsforprojectsthatwillbenefitconservationintheareafromSpillimacheentoCanalFlats utilizingtheColumbiaValleyLocalConservationFund(CVLCF).

ThepurposeoftheFundistoprovidelocalfinancialsupportforimportantprojectsthatcontribute totheconservationofourvaluablenaturalareas.CVLCFfundingisavailableforconservation projectsthatresultinthereductiontoaknownthreattobiodiversity.ThethemesfortheFundare waterconservation,wildlifeandhabitatconservation,andopenspaceconservation.

Prioritywillbegiventoprojectsthataretechnicallysoundandeffectiveandprovidevaluefor moneythroughpartnershipswithotherfunders.Proponentsmustbearegisterednon-profit organization,FirstNation,orlocalgovernment.Unqualifiedgroupsororganizationsmaypartner withaqualifiedorganization.ATechnicalReviewCommitteewillreviewprojectproposalsand makerecommendationstotheRDEKforfinalfundingapproval.

Toapplyforfundinggotohttps://kootenayconservation.ca/columbia-valley-local-conservationfund/.ReviewtheFund’sTermsofReference(payingparticularattentiontoSection8–FundDesign) andApplicationGuide,andthenapplyusingtheapplicationformsprovided.PleasecontactKCPto discussideasfornewprojectsortoaddressanyquestionspriortoapplyingforfunding.

Closingdatesforprojectsubmissionsis4:30pmMTOctober31,2023.

Projectproposalsmustbedeliveredbyemailtokendal@kootenayconservation.ca.

Restoration design planning in the Sun Creek watershed near Canal Flats. Phase 2 of this project is led by the ?akis’qnuk First Nation, and aims to restore a minimum of five hectares of wetland habitat and train First Nations youth to become stewards of the land.

Photo by Birch Matkowski, BCWF

Two citizen-scientists monitor breeding activity at a Bank Swallow colony near Invermere, for the Upper Columbia Swallow Habitat Enhancement Project.

Photo by Rachel Darvill

A questionable temptation

Fresh old ideas

By Arnold Malone Pioneer Columnist

On Saturday evenings during the winter months of the 1940s the farm chores were done with haste. The animals needed to be bedded, dairy cows milked and the feeder stock fed. Once the milk was separated in to cream and cooled in an old well, we young ones could come in for an early supper. It was Saturday and that meant it was Hockey Night In Canada.

The radio with its A, B and C batteries was rationed. However, Hockey Night was special. There was great excitement when Foster Hewitt’s voice rang into our kitchen with the words, “Good evening hockey fans across Canada, the United States and Newfoundland it is Hocky Night In Canada.”

It was pure hockey.

Fast forward to the sports world of today and it is clear that much has changed. Sport is now about big money. Real big money. One of the great benefactors of hockey wealth is no other than NHL commissioner Gary Bettman with a career total, calculated into today’s dollars, at over 200 million.

The top ranked baseball player, Shohei Ohtani, playing for the Los Angeles Angels pulls in a whopping $65 million per year in salary and endorsements.

One might conclude that the billionaires who own the sports franchises and the players who earn those exaggerated salaries well above an average worker might be delightfully satisfied with their life. Yet, the sports world is hungry to squeeze more money out of her supporting fans.

Most recently there has been a surge in sports betting schemes. Advertised by some as the “game within the game.” A chance to test your predictions and change your life.

In just one province, Ontario, there are 31 sports betting agencies. One fact that we know with certainty is that the “house” – the agency that operates the betting activity – is richly profitable. One more time sport becomes a vortex for sucking money from the masses.

Sport is about the game. In the betting world your interest is divided between the sport and the hope that your bet might gift you with a reward. If the bet becomes the focus, then sport is diminished.

The problem isn’t so much gambling as it is the ads asking us to gamble. There is a constant invitation to go beyond the sport. The claim is, there is more fun to be had. The truth is some agency has decided there is more money to be extracted.

If gambling is a person’s desire, then put on a coat and drive to a casino or an outlet that provides for gambling. But surely, the high rollers don’t need to be the uninvited intruders inside our home. Sport is about the excellence of our physical and mental being. It is a test of our speed, strength and endurance. We need not be tempted by some agencies’ thirst for money.

There are 365 days in a year and one betting site, Bet365 hopes that you will gamble every one of them.

It is difficult today to watch a sports program and not be asked to gamble. The UK, Spain, Poland, Italy, Belgium, and the Netherlands have all regulated sports betting. Statistics Canada indicates that there are 19.3 million online gamblers in Canada. Of the world’s 193 countries Canada ranks eighth for the highest rate per capita of money spent through online gambling.

Lower income families tend to spend less on gambling but those who do are more likely to end up addicted to it.

Let’s leave our living rooms for our families to manage without the pressure that rare luck might fall upon us. You have more chance of being struck by lightning than by winning a bet. May we soon return to the purity of sport.

LAKEWINDERMERE ALLIANCECHURCH

Whileyouarewithus,youare alwayswelcometojoinus. Sundayat10:30a.m

32610thAvenue,Invermere

250-342-9535•www.lwac.ca

WINDERMEREVALLEYSHARED

MINISTRYANGLICAN-UNITED Minister:BrentWoodard

WedonothaveservicesinJulyandAugust.

SundayserviceswillresumeSept3rdat10:30am. Pleasevisitourwebsitebygoingtowvsm.ca.

VALLEYCHRISTIANASSEMBLY

Sunday10a.m.Worshipservice

4814HighwayDrive,Windermere 250-342-9511•www.valleychristianonline.com

ROMANCATHOLICCHURCH

St.Anthony’s,CanalFlats.,CanadianMartyrs’–Invermere,St.Joseph’s–Radium.

CanalFlats:Saturday,4p.m.

CanadianMartyrs,Invermere: Saturday5p.m.,Sunday9a.m. St.Joseph,Radium:Sunday11a.m.

FatherFrancisDelaCruz•712-12th Ave.,Invermere 250-342-6167

ST.PETER’SLUTHERANCHURCH

Sunday1:30p.m.WorshipServiceatValleyChristian 4814HighwayDrive,Windermere lutheranstpeter@gmail.com

RADIUMCHRISTIANFELLOWSHIP

Sunday10a.m.Worshipservice

PastorWayneandLindaFrater•250-342-6633 No.4,7553MainSt.Radium•250-347-9937

CHURCHOFJESUSCHRIST OFLATTER-DAYSAINTS

WorshipService,Sunday,10a.m. ReliefSociety,11:15a.m.

PresidentKendynMackensie•ColumbiaValley Branch•5014Fairway,FairmontHotSprings 250-439-9041

CHURCHOFCHRIST(IglesianiCristo) WorshipService:Sunday9a.m.,Thursday7:45p.m. ChamberofCommerce(LionsHall)

Forinquiries:250-688-1643

250-270-2208or250-688-0629

Formoreinfoaboutthechurch,youcanGoogle onlineatincmedia.orgorpasugo.com.ph