Columbia Valley Pioneer - August 17, 2023

Photo submitted

VALLEY VIEWS

A family of Merganser ducks follows some paddle boarders (in the distance) up the Columbia River on a sleepy weekday evening. Hey, what’s that on the far right, a young Ogopogo? Darn, it’s only a log. In right photo, a sensitive nesting area for bank swallows (in background).

Photos by Ryan Watmough

WATERMETERREADS

TheDistrictofInvermerewillbereadingwatermeters

Ifyouhaveanolderwatermeterandwouldliketo participateinourmeterexchangeprogram, pleasecallthenumberbelow. Ifyouhaveanyquestionsorconcerns,pleasecontact theMunicipalOfficeat250-342-9281.

VALLEY NEWS

Council to spend $190K to tackle odour

Columbia Valley Pioneer Staff

The District of Invermere will spend up to $190,000 and install an enhanced aeration system to mitigate the “offensive odour” arising from its wastewater treatment lagoons.

Council passed the resolution at its August 8 meeting after a report from Director of Public Works and Operations Angela MacLean.

She said that residents and district staff noticed the strong sewage odour this spring, when the source was identified as Lagoon 1 at the Wastewater Treatment Plant. She noted the odour lasted approximately four weeks before the lagoon stabilized.

MacLean said staff discovered that the dissolved oxygen (DO) in Lagoon 1 was very low, causing the good bacteria (that breaks down the waste products)

to die off. This condition likely occurred due to a quick change in the weather from winter to spring, in addition to issues with the aeration system. She noted the odour problem demonstrated that the infrastructure was “struggling to provide enough dissolved oxygen to maintain the necessary aerobic conditions for the system to operate properly.”

MacLean said installing a system that can continuously monitor the DO levels will give staff a better understanding of lagoon performance, allowing them to make adjustments in a timely manner. She noted they are investigating ways to retrofit the existing system, adding the preferred proposal is to install a large number of commercial air diffusers. In the end, the new system will be easier to inspect, repair and replace as necessary, MacLean pointed out.

The estimated cost to replace the

current aeration system is $160,000, but this project is not included in the 2023 Capital Plan already adopted by council. Therefore, staff recommended that the funds from the prior year surplus in the Sewer Operating Plan be used. This fund had a balance of $1.4 million as of December 31, 2022.

Staff plan to start the project immediately to permit installation this fall.

“If the aeration improvements are not installed prior to this winter, then there is a high likelihood of odour issues occurring in spring 2024,” MacLean said. Mayor Al Miller told the Pioneer that he believes the retrofit will correct the odour issue. “The explanation from our engineering (department) certainly made sense to me. Our system is aging and needs to be updated as well.”

The District of Invermere has approved spending $190,000 to address the offensive sewage odour from Lagoon 1. At left is Director of Public Works and Operations Angela MacLean.

File photos

SECURITY SECURITY

RCMP Report

Corporal Jeff Witzke

This past week, August 7 to 13, the Columbia Valley RCMP responded to 106 calls for service.

The following is a summary of some of the files our officers responded to:

to be an impaired driver, further investigation led to the discovery that the vehicle had been stolen.

The vehicle was inspected for fingerprints with negative results and returned to the owner. No suspects have been identified.

The RCMP would like to remind everyone to make sure to lock up your vehicles and do not leave the keys or any valuables inside.

Applicationformsfororganizationswhichmightbeeligiblefor aPermissiveTaxExemptionarenowavailableattheMunicipal Office,914–8thAvenueandonourwebsiteat www.invermere.net under“ImportantLinks”onthehome page.

APermissiveTaxExemptionisameansforCounciltosupport organizationswithinthecommunitywhichfurthercouncil’s objectivesofenhancingqualityoflifeanddeliveryofservices economically.APermissiveTaxExemptionisstrictlyatthe discretionoftheDistrictofInvermereCouncil.

Theapplicationformsareforataxexemptionfor2024property taxesasperregulationssetoutinthe CommunityCharter. Tobeeligible,natureoftheorganizationmustbe:

•Notforprofitorganization

•Charitableorphilanthropicorganization

•Anathleticorservicecluborassociation

•Carefacilityorlicensedprivatehospital

•Partnerofthemunicipalitybyagreementunders.225of theCommunityCharter

•Otherlocalauthority

•Organizationeligibleunders.220statutoryexemption(e.g. publicworship,seniorhome,hospital)

Deadlineforthereceiptofapplications: September1,2023at4:30pmlocaltime.

Pleasecallourofficeat250.342.9281ifyourequireanyadditional information.

On Tuesday Aug. 8, police responded to a stolen vehicle in Invermere. The owner was sitting in the living room just after 10 p.m. when they heard their vehicle back out of the driveway. Initial patrols were negative, but on August 13 an observant citizen reported a suspicious vehicle matching the description nearby. Members attended and confirmed it was the stolen vehicle. It was promptly returned to its grateful owner with no damage.

That same night, another vehicle was located after a minor collision with a well-built fence. Initially thought

On Sunday, Aug. 13 members were on patrol when they noted a suspicious vehicle fail to stop at a controlled intersection.

Officers began to follow the vehicle and were about to attempt a traffic stop when the vehicle took off and tried to evade the police. A brief pursuit was initiated, however, it was over quickly as the suspect’s vehicle appeared to have blown the transmission and coasted to a stop. The driver was arrested for failing to stop and dangerous operation of a motor vehicle.

Evacuation Order downgraded

Columbia Valley Pioneer Staff

A recent Evacuation Order for the Horsethief Creek wildfire has been downgraded to an Evacuation Alert.

The Regional District of East Kootenay (RDEK) says that fire crews continue to make progress.

“With the recent downturn in weather and all the great work that the BC Wildfire crews have been putting in, the Order that was still in place has been able to be downgraded to an Alert. Residents that are in the Alert area should stay prepared and be ready to leave on a moment’s notice should conditions change and an Order needs to be re-issued,” says Regional Emergency Operations Centre Director, Christina Carbrey.

The Evacuation Alert area that was put in place on July 30 remains in effect. The full list of affected areas can be viewed at www.rdek.bc.ca.

A new “Area Restriction” has been put in place by BC Wildfire Service in relation to the Horsethief Creek fire. This restriction reflects the need to protect the public in areas where fire suppression activities are taking place. This means that nobody is permitted on Crown land within this fire zone.

The fire is still classified as out of control at a size of

3,936 hectares. Resources include 121 firefighting personnel, 13 helicopters and 11 pieces of heavy equipment. Crews continue to maintain guards. No structures have been reported damaged.

Crews have been focusing on securing the Bruce and Neave drainage where planned ignitions recently took place. Work continues on a contingency guard up the Horsethief Canyon and a direct guard up to Law Ridge. Preparation was underway for a potential 10-hectare planned ignition near the Jackpine bowl ridgeline to remove pockets of unburned fuel and bring fire safely to a guard.

Firefighters from the US have been vital to the response in the Horsethief Complex near Invermere. The Tahoe Hotshots from the Tahoe National Forest have been working to contain the Horsethief Creek fire by building guard, actioning the fire with direct and indirect attack tactics, and conducting aerial planned ignitions.

Increased smoke may be visible if planned ignitions proceed.

The RDEK information line remains open at 250426-2188 or toll free 1-855-346-2188 and, when not staffed, will have a recorded message with the most updated information.

Columbia Valley RCMP

Call volume down for valley RCMP

Columbia Valley Pioneer Staff

Lawbreakers in the Columbia Valley haven’t taken a summer break, but the RCMP’s call volume is down, according to a quarterly report presented to the District of Invermere on August 8.

In a delegation to council, acting Sgt. Jeff Witzke said the RCMP responded to 871 calls for service in the first quarter of 2023 (April to June), compared to 941 calls during the first quarter of 2022. In 2021 the detachment received 992 calls.

The report indicates that calls within the Invermere area accounted for approximately 23 per cent (202 in the first quarter, compared to 238 during the same period last year).

When at full strength, the detachment consists of one sergeant, two corporals, eight constables, three administrative staff, and one victim services worker.

Witzke said they said goodbye to Cst. Henneberry, who had been with the detachment for about five years. They have welcomed Cst. McMillan, a three-year member who was recently posted to Creston. And back from maternity leave is Cst. Tracz.

Witzke pointed out the new detachment commander is Sgt. Ed DeJong.

In his presentation, Witzke outlined the detachment’s priorities, which include road safety, crime reduction, mental health/employee wellness, and community relations.

Road safety

In the past three months numerous violation tickets have been issued along with approximately 10 excessive speeding violations, several of which have been within Kootenay National Park. Witzke said these violators are issued a court date and their vehicles are impounded for seven days.

“The focus moving forward into the summer months will be to maintain visibility on the highway and roadways as well as to roadblocks to check for impaired drivers.”

Witzke noted this year’s objective includes having some of the new members trained on laser and radar techniques as well as conducting more joint operations

with BC Highway Patrol.

Property crime

Witzke said their main strategies for reducing crime are law enforcement, community and situational prevention.

“Here in the valley the members have done an excellent job at keeping on top of our prolific or repeat offenders when it comes to offences such as property crime,” he stated. “However, we would like to have a more collaborative, proactive approach within the community that could prevent some offences from happening altogether.”

Witzke said this could be done by way of information sharing on topics such as fraud awareness or crime prevention through environmental design. “Simple messaging regarding locking up vehicles and taking the valuables out can significantly reduce theft from vehicles,” he pointed out.

Witzke said the detachment would like to seek input from community leaders on how to best present on these topics. For example, a town hall meeting or messaging on signs around town or via radio or social media.

Mental health

Witzke noted the detachment continues to be part of a “wellness collaborative” group, which is in the midst of getting the proper training required to establish a “Situation Table” for vulnerable people in the valley. Many communities such as Kelowna and Penticton have set up these “hubs” to rapidly connect people in crises to services before they experience a negative or traumatic event, such as victimization, overdose or homelessness. In the long term, this reduces the demand on emergency services and police resources. In many incidences, law enforcement officers find themselves dealing with individuals on a mental health basis as opposed to a criminal basis.

Regarding the mental health of RCMP members in the valley, Witzke said they have one member and a victim services worker trained in critical incident stress management (CISM), along with several members in neighbouring detachments. When stressful incidents occur, debriefings are offered to affected members.

“The Columbia Valley detachment is very committed to the wellness of its employees. Overall, the morale within the detachment continues to be high,” Witzke stated. He noted that work/life balance is a priority and every effort is made to ensure that all members get adequate time off. Officers are encouraged and reminded to take time to unwind with their families.

“The RCMP is taking positive steps to address the growing need to nurture a psychologically healthy and safe workplace,” Witzke said. This includes programs such as Peer to Peer, Employee Assistance service, stress injury programs, and CISM.

Community relations

Witzke reported the detachment continues to be engaged with the community by attending as many events as possible, on and off duty. During the first quarter, members presented to the Grade 6 and 7 class at JA Laird Elementary School on drug awareness and bullying. At David Thompson Secondary School, they attended a lockdown drill and law class debates. Officers also attended the Bike Rodeo and Fun Day at Eileen Madson Primary School, as well as the Grade 7

The Columbia Valley RCMP responded to 871 calls for service in the first quarter of 2023 (April to June), compared to 941 calls during the first quarter of 2022. Calls within the Invermere area accounted for approximately 23 per cent (202 in the first quarter, compared to 238 during the same period last year). The detachment’s priorities include road safety, property crime reduction, mental health/employee wellness, and community relations. Shown here is an RCMP officer attending the Scooter Rodeo at Columbia Garden Village.

year-end barbecue in Edgewater. Witzke said members presented to an elders group on fraud awareness and prevention, presented at the annual minor hockey awards night, marched in the annual Grad March, and even served hamburgers and fries at the McDonalds drive-thru in support of McHappy Day.

In addition, several boat patrols have already been made with plenty of safety education being provided, Witzke pointed out.

Mayor Al Miller said he feels confident with the work the RCMP are doing.

“We are also very thankful we are at full manpower. Some communities are not so fortunate.”

Miller noted that one of the key issues the RCMP face is the lack of good cell service in the region.

“In the parks it’s a guessing game as to what to expect as the communication is very weak at best. Our service providers need to step up their game in the Columbia Valley and park areas,” said Miller, who added that more cell towers would make a big difference to the quality of service that people expect.

Photo submitted

Customer service . . . what customer service? There is none anymore, especially dealing with large corporations.

Every time you have to call a bank, utility or big service provider there is a despairing groan that starts in the pit of your stomach and works its way up. Because you know you’re in for a long, agonizing wait to speak to a human being who, more than likely, will pass you onto someone else for yet another round of elevator music.

Long gone are the days when you could dial a number, reach a live person in seven seconds and have your question answered within 10 more. Now that was service, which you can still receive from many smaller, independent businesses today, thank goodness. But with the larger companies, forget it.

Case in point: a mother of two on holiday had to call her bank because her account was flagged. She waited an hour to get through and was then directed to the fraud department, which took another hour to reach someone with a heartbeat. That person apologized for the wait and explained that agents were constantly dealing with fraud cases due to, and this is our explanation – low-life miscreants who can’t make an honest living because it’s too hard.

Waiting an hour to receive service may be commonplace today but is totally unacceptable. Surely, these companies that are profiting in the millions (and billions) can afford to hire more people and resources to improve their customer service and cut wait times (to at least 30 minutes, if not 15).

Consumers pay a lot of money to these companies for various products and services, so one would think that wait times to resolve problems or answer simple questions would be minimal. Think again and put those naive thoughts out of your head. One also wonders if these frustrating wait times are strategically designed to prevent too many calls, with the hope that people just give up. That’s one less call to take by an overworked representative. But let’s hope this is far from the case and that there are simply too few employees available to take your call in a timely manner.

We have to assume that countless people have already complained about this lack of service, and still nothing is done about it, making one feel more like a number than a valued customer. Consumers are really caught between a rock and a hard place since society dictates that we need these services to get by.

Solidarity (protests and boycotts) to hold these companies accountable is not very realistic in Canada because of our reliance on these services. Sure, you can throw up your hands and vow to live off the grid, but good luck with that one.

Lyonel Doherty, editor

Chair praises wildfire response

It’s been nearly one month since the St. Mary’s River fire ignited, prompting a multi-agency response and an unofficial start to an active July fire season in the East Kootenay.

As a region, we are profoundly grateful for the tireless efforts of the BC Wildfire Service, from their front-line personnel to the contractors, pilots, heavy equipment operators and support staff. We also want to acknowledge the incredible efforts and support of the structure protection personnel who have arrived in this region from across B.C. to help protect homes and infrastructure in all three of our RDEK sub-regions; our Emergency Operations Centre personnel, Emergency Support Services volunteers and search and rescue teams, who have worked day and night to support the firefighting efforts and those who have been evacuated or put on alert; and, all the residents who’ve been stepping up to support people in whatever way they can from taking in pets, to helping move livestock, donating supplies,

or assisting friends, neighbours and even strangers.

Over the course of 10 days, the East Kootenay went from having one wildfire of note to three in addition to multiple active fires. Thousands of people were on Evacuation Alert across the region, while hundreds were evacuated.

The cooperation between the BC Wildfire Service, Emergency Program personnel, affected municipalities and ?aq'am has been incredible and serves as a model for other regions. While we are deeply saddened by the loss of seven homes in ?aq'am, we are grateful that so many others have been saved and I want to thank every individual who has played a role in this year’s wildfire response, no matter how big or how small their role may have been.

While a number of alerts and orders have been rescinded, there are still numerous active fires within the region and a number of alerts remain in effect. The Regional Emergency Operations Centre remains activated

in support. The Regional Information Line is open at 250-426-2188 or 1-855-346-2188 and has a recorded message with the latest information when not staffed.

We still have another month of fire season ahead of us and another hot, dry stretch in the forecast. Every resident in the region is urged to take steps to ensure they are prepared and staying on top of the latest news and information about local conditions. If you have not already registered for the Regional Evacuation System, you are urged to do so as this is one of the fastest ways to be notified in the event your property is under Evacuation Order or Alert.

For the latest information on local wildfires, visit www.bcwildfire.ca. To learn more about how to prepare your home or family during wildfire season – or for any emergency - visit Prepared BC or contact the RDEK.

Rob Gay, chairperson, Regional District of East Kootenay

Residents return home as fire ‘held’

By Julia Magsombol Local Journalism Initiative julia@columbiavalleypioneer.com

The St. Mary's River wildfire that ignited on July 17 is now classified as being “held,” with ?Aq'am residents finally returning home.

"Being held is good news when opposed to an outof-control fire . . . it's a fire that's received sufficient suppression action, and it is not likely to spread further under forecast conditions," said Kirk Verner, an information officer with the BC Wildfire Service.

Located on the traditional territory of the Ktunaxa First Nation, the suspected cause was downed power lines, but the investigation is ongoing.

A recent update from the BC Wildfire Service showed that the fire is approximately 4,640 hectares. Fire crews expect the size to increase in the coming days, but it's not something to worry about.

"Don't be too concerned; that's just from planned ignitions," said Daniel Klein, the Incident Commander at the Regional District of East Kootenay (RDEK) "We're downsizing a little bit, but we are remaining with adequate resourcing here to make sure that we really bring this across the finish line."

For more information, visit: https://wildfiresituation.nrs.gov.bc.ca/incidents?fireYear=2023&incidentNumber=N11805.

Verner added that the situation is being monitored by a drone that flies over the fire at night and does a thermal scan. This helps the crews to find hotspots. Once they find these, they do mop-ups with water to ensure these areas are cool to the touch. Then they move on to find other hotspots.

Verner added that some smoke will still be visible in the area. "We have firefighters working with heavy equipment and some aviation support; we're making sure that area is going to be all safe for the future. We'll be monitoring it with flights and with vehicles moving forward.”

On August 8, RDEK determined that the situation was safe, and the Evacuation Order was rescinded for 36 homes in the ?Aq'am community, meaning these families can return home.

“The community of ?Aq'am heads home after 23 days . . . we are grateful to see people heading home," said St. Mary's Indian Band on their Facebook page.

But the Band also mentioned that seven homes were lost in the wildfire due to the strong winds and tinder-dry conditions. And several roads within ?Aq'am will remain closed to the public (open for local residents only). For example, the Mission Wasa Low Road is closed to the public until further notice. The Mission Road through to LD Ranch Road is closed to public access until it is safe and the danger of tree falling is mitigated.

The RDEK and the ?Aq'am community are asking the public to stay out of the area to provide complete and open access to responding fire crews.

More information is available at https://www.rdek. bc.ca/departments/protectiveservices/emergencyinfo/ evacuation_alerts_orders/

After hard work and dedication from ground crews and aviation resources, the St Mary’s River wildfire is classified as being held. This means that due to suppression efforts, the fire is not expected to grow beyond predetermined boundaries.

SATURDAY11:00AM-1:00PM 5731HIGHWAY95EDGEWATERB.C

Wonderfulhobbyfarmwithover7acresofrollingland,this propertyatEdgewater,B.C.isadreamwithagorgeousview ofthePurcellMountainrangeandtheRockies.Youwillsee thatthishomehasbeendiligentlycaredforanditshowsto bereadytomovein.Thehomeoffersthreebedrooms,three bathrooms,loadsofstorageareasandaworkroom.Enjoythe heatfromthemainfloorwoodstoveandthelargewindows overlookingthepasture.Theoutsideisgreatwithanoversized garage30x26,yardequipmentshed,steelquonsetbuilding with16’doorand30x30baywithengineeredconcretefloor. Sundeckseverywhereandloadsofwater.

Photos by BCWS

Music festival coming to ranch near you

Submitted

The Mountain-Mere Music Fest is coming to the Columbia Valley on August 19, featuring an extraordinary lineup of musical performances ranging from contemporary through to classical, big band and jazz.

A series of local acts will lead off the event, which starts at 3 p.m., including solo guitarist and vocalist Kevin Olson, the energetic Smarty Pants (Bill Cropper/Kurt Reichler), and entertainer and music director Bryant Olender, the new leader of the Valley Voices.

Calgary periodontist Dr. Thomas Yu, perhaps the

world’s most recognized current amateur pianist, will perform later in the program, immediately prior to the headline act which will feature a Canadian all-star jazz ensemble, assembled and led specifically for this event by Grammy Award nominee trumpeter Jens Lindemann, featuring multiple Juno winner Robi Botos on piano, and including Kristian Alexandrov (percussion and piano), Kodi Hutchison (double bassist), Derek Stoll (pianist) and other “special guests.” Steinway Gallery of Calgary is providing one of their new technology “Spirio” player pianos for this talented lineup of musicians.

Mountain-Mere Music Fest is being presented entirely by volunteers and has been robustly supported by an incredible group of donors and sponsors who have provided financial and in-kind support which more than cover the expenses of the event. All proceeds will be donated to support youth mental health and well-being programs of the Windermere Valley Youth Centre Society, which delivers programming throughout the Columbia Valley from Canal Flats to Spillimacheen.

General admission tickets are on sale at $100/person, and will provide access to the grounds for the day with festival seating. Food and beverage sales will be available for purchase on site. For tickets visit www.invermeresummityouthcentre.org or call 2503423033.

Artisan market coming Aug. 18

By Julia Magsombol Local Journalism Initiative julia@columbiavalleypioneer.com

Come and support local artists in the upcoming Indigenous Artisan Market at St. Eugene Golf Resort & Casino in Cranbrook.

“We are excited to host the first-ever Indigenous Artisan Market,” said Sarah Gravelle, the Indigenous Ambassador at St. Eugene Resort.

The market will open on August 18 from 4 to 7 p.m. in the resort’s courtyard. There is no admission fee and everyone is welcome.

Gravelle said the vendors who come and sell their arts and crafts don’t need to pay any fees for their spot.

“This is an opportunity for Indigenous artists to showcase their work and gain exposure,” she noted.

Gravelle said they have unlimited space to host the artists, adding that several have already confirmed their attendance. Vendors can arrive at 3 p.m. to set up their goods.

“We hope to grow quickly and get our artists the recognition they deserve,” Gravelle stated.

Any artists who are interested in reserving a spot can call Gravelle at (250) 420-1216 or email sgravelle@steugene.ca.

The Artisan Market will be held at St. Eugene resort on August 18 from 4 to 7 p.m.

Photo submitted

CLRC ready for another Family Fun Day

By Julia Magsombol Local Journalism Initiative julia@columbiavalleypioneer.com

Located on ?Akisq’nuk First Nation, the Columbia Lake Recreation Centre (CLRC) is presenting another Family Fun Day in the fall after their first successful one in July.

“The success [of the recent one] was one of the reasons. People were asking for the next one . . . but we truly want to celebrate the end of summer and the return to school of the kids with a fun, happy event,” said Trisha Clowers, one of the staff at CLRC.

The event will take place on Sept. 3 from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. with activities such as bouncy castles, games, face painting and more.

“[We want] families to have fun and enjoy their last weekend before the school craziness starts,” she stated.

The Pioneer asked Clowers how it feels to be supported by the community.

“It was amazing! We wanted everyone to enjoy and have fun and see that happen, which made the behindthe-scenes craziness, mishaps, and stress so very much worth it,” she said.

Clowers and the CLRC team want this event to be a continuous one at the recreation centre.

“We appreciate the support we receive from valley residents and visitors.”

For more information, visit https://www.facebook. com/ColumbiaLakeRecreationCentre.

The second Family Fun Day hosted by Columbia Valley Recreation Centre will be held

OUTOFOFFICE…

NewStudyAimstoBoostRuralEngagementinBC’sHealthcarePlanning

Aground-breakinginitiativetoamplifyruralvoicesinhealthcare decision-makingisunderwayinBritishColumbia(BC).Theproject, “ClosingtheGap,”isapartnershipbetweentheUBCCentreforRural HealthResearch(CRHR)andtheBCRuralHealthNetwork(BCRHN) andisfundedbytheSocialPlanningandResearchCouncil(SPARC) ofBC.

BC’sruralcommunitiesarehometohundredsofthousandsof residents,whooftenfeeltheirhealthcareneedsareovershadowed byurban-focusedhealthpolicies.Thisstudylookstoaddressthisgap byinvestigatingtheroleofruralcommunitiesinhealthpolicymaking, identifyingcurrentdisconnects,anddevelopingstrategiesformore effectiveengagement.

Ablendofinterviewswithpolicymakersandruralleaders,alongsidea province-widesurvey,willshedlightonthestatusofruralcommunity

involvementinhealthplanning.Thefindingsareexpectedtohelp craftamoreinclusive,representativehealthcareplanningprocess inBC, promotebetterhealthoutcomesforruralcommunities,and contributetothecreationofanonlineplatformforpublicinputon healthcarepolicies.

“Understandingcurrentcommunityexperiencewithengagementin healthplanningisthefirststeptoclosingthegap,”saystheprincipal co-investigator,Dr.JudeKornelsen.“Thisisaprocessthatisof growingconcerntomanyruralcommunitiesasresidentsfeeltheir solutionstohealthcarechallengesarenotbeingtakenintoplanning consideration,”addedPaulAdams,ExecutiveDirector,BCRuralHealth Network.

Tocompletethesurveygoto: https://bit.ly/3DYjNco

Thursday,August17

•9:00am-12:00pm:OutdoorPickleball Mt.NelsonAthleticPark,Drop-in Play.

•9:30am-12:30pm:StoryWalk LearningTogether.Enjoytheoutdoorsand astory!ActivitiesandGiveaways!Differentlocationsthroughoutthesummer. https://www.facebook.com/columbiabasinallianceforliteracywindermerevalley

•10:30am-11:30am:Senior’sFitness ColumbiaValleyCentre,$2dropin.

•10:30am:EdgewaterStorytime EdgewaterCommunityHallPark.

•11:15am-12:30pm:JourneyThroughTime SummerReadingClub. EdgewaterCommunityPark.Ages5-12.RegisteratInvermere.bc.libraries.coop

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

•3:00pm-8:00pm:TheSummitYouthHubDrop-In CanalFlatsSkatePark.

•6:30pm:IndoorPickleball InvermereCurlingClub,SkillsandDrills.

•6:45pm:TexasHold‘EmPoker InvermereLegion.

•7:30pm:TriviaNight WindermereWhitehousePub,$3/person.

•8:00pm:TriviaNight UllrBar,$5/person.

Friday,August18

»6:30pm-11:00pm:FlatsFest.CanalFlats.KipMoore.www. flatsfest.ca/2023-schedule

•9:00am-11:00am:LittleBadgersPlaygroup.Forcaregiversandkids0-5: natureplay,songs,stories,snacks.

•9:00am-11:00am:InvermereTennisClub attheKinsmenBeachCourts.

•9:00am-12:00pm:OutdoorPickleballMt.NelsonAthleticPark,Drop-in Play.

•10:30am-11:30am:Pop-upStorytime.SerenityFarmWindermere.Hosted byInvermereLibrary

•10:30am-12:00pm:RadiumSummerReadingClub.RadiumLibrary.Every Friday.Ages5-8.

•1:00pm-2:30pm:RadiumSummerReadingClub.RadiumLibrary.Every Friday.Ages9-12.

•4:00pm-7:00pm:RadiumMarketonMain. JoinusfortheannualMarket onMaineveryFridayEveningfrom4-7pmthroughJuly&AugustattheVisitor CentreinRadiumwhereweeatandshoplocally.

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

•6:30pm-8:30pm:IndoorPickleball InvermereCurlingClub,SkillsandDrills.

•6:30pm-8:30pm:DynamicArcherySpeedShooting.CometryArcheryat LuxorCorrals.Call250-347-9048toregister.

Saturday,August19

»12:00pm-11:00pm:FlatsFest.CanalFlats.Trooper. www.flatsfest.ca/2023-schedule

»1:00pm-3:00pm:PaintwithNancy.Pynelogs.Interactive paintingsessionwithNancySorenson.$55. www.columbiavalleyarts.com/workshops

•9:00am-1:00pm:InvermereFarmersMarket LakeviewParkingLot.

•9:00am-12:00pm:OutdoorPickleball Mt.NelsonAthleticPark,Drop-in Play.

•10:30am-12:00pm:LEGO/DuploClub InvermerePublicLibrary.We'llhave Lego,Duplo,bigblocks&moreouttoplaywithonSaturdaymornings!

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

•2:00pm-4:00pm:BuddyReading.InvermereLibrary.30minOne-on-one readingsessionwithlibrarystaffmember,Blair,whohasmorethantenyearsof readingtutorexperience.Byappointment,publiclibrary@invermere.net.

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

Sunday,August20

•2:00pm-12:00am:Cards,CribbageandDarts CometotheLegionandhave somefun!Membersandguestswelcome.

•2:00pm-4:00pm:IndoorPickleball OpenplayatCurlingClub.

•6:00pm:ArcheryattheRange LakeWindermereRod&GunClub.Equipment availabletorent.www.lwdrodgun.com

•7:00pm:LiveMusic HorsethiefCreekPub&Eatery.Accompaniedminorsare permitted.Nocover.

Monday,August21

»9:30pm:MoviesintheMountains.Mondaynightsatdark. PotholePark."Luca".

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

•9:00am-12:00pm:OutdoorPickleball. Mt.NelsonAthleticPark,Drop-in Play.

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

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

•6:30pm-8:300pm:IndoorPickleball.InvermereCurlingClub,Skillsand Drills.

•6:30pm-8:30pm:DynamicArcherySpeedShooting.CometryArchery atLuxorCorrals.Call250-347-9048toregister.

•5:00pm-10:00pm:LGBTQ+&AlliesattheHub.SummitYouthHub.On MondaysattheHUB,theLGBTQ+youthandtheirallieshaveasafeplaceto hangout.

Tuesday,August22

•9:00am-12:00pm:OutdoorPickleball. Mt.NelsonAthleticPark,Drop-in Play.

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

•11:00am-12:30pm:JourneyThroughTime.SummerReadingClub. InvermereLibrary.Ages5-8.Registrationrequiredatinvermere.bc.libraries. coop.

•2:00pm-3:30pm:JourneyThroughTime.SummerReadingClub. InvermereLibrary.Ages9-12.Registrationrequiredatinvermere.bc.libraries. coop.

•6:30pm-8:30pm:IndoorPickleball InvermereCurlingClub,Skillsand Drills.

•m:Pickleball InvermereCurlingClub,SkillsandDrills.

Wednesday,August23

»6:30pm-8:00pm:LocalsLive.ConcertSummerSeries.Pothole Park.WilsonandtheDisilludes.

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

•9:00am-12:00pm:OutdoorPickleball. Mt.NelsonAthleticPark,Drop-in Play.

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

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

•3:00pm-7:00pm:TechHubOpenHouse. InvermereLibrary.Comeexplore everythingonofferinourTechHub!Allfreetouse!Demosandquestions answered.

•3:00pm-6:30pm:Agri-ParkFarmersMarket Crossroads.

•3:00pm-8:00pm:TheSummitYouthHubDrop-In TheEdgeSkate Park.Edgewater.

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

•6:00pm:ArcheryattheRange LakeWindermereRod&GunClub. Equipmentavailabletorent.www.lwdrodgun.com.

•6:30pm:IndoorPickleball InvermereCurlingClub,LadiesNight.

Lady with ‘OCD’ always in a pickle

By Lyonel Doherty lyonel@aberdeenpublishing.com

Sophie Timothy is always in a pickle, and there’s nowhere else she’d rather be.

In fact, she suffers from OCD - “obsessive canning disorder.” Ahh, that explains it.

The ‘pickle lady,’ as she is affectionately known, needs no introduction in the Columbia Valley where she operates Sophie’s Original Choice in Edgewater. And she has an accomplice named Dean, who’s also renowned for his amazing garden towers.

Sophie was born in Brantford, ON to Polish immigrants who had a stupendous garden. “My mom canned everything,” Sophie recalls.

She met Dean in high school and later moved out west, settling in Edgewater in 1995 when she began working in School

District 6 as a teacher’s aide and casual custodian. She subsequently took a fulltime job as a custodian, retiring this year.

“Some of the kids were dear to my heart; they were more than students,” she said, noting she had the pleasure of watching these kids grow up and have their own children.

She was a friend who listened to them. If they needed something they would seek her out and say, “Hey, Miss Sophie.” She often surprised them with acts of kindness that they never forgot.

While she was working at David Thompson Secondary School, she brought in a Japanese fighting fish in a bowl and displayed it in the cafeteria for students and staff to admire. The fish soon stole the heart of Grade 12 student Ariel, who named the fish “Avocado” and cleaned his tank regularly.

“She loved that fish. Well, grad was

Notice of Intent

Rocky Mountain District Road Closure

Notice is given, pursuant to Sec tion 60(2) of the Transpor tation Act, that the M inistr y of Transpor tation and I nfrastruc ture has received an application to permanently close the unconstructed right-of-way of Stoddar t Boulevard in Winder m ere, B C

The unconstruc ted r ight- of-way to be closed is adjacent to proper ties located at Lots 2 through 9, District Lot 20, Kootenay District Plan NEP2125

The closed road will be vested pursuant to Sec tion 60(2) of the Transpor ta tion Act

soon approaching and Ariel was sad to leave Avocado. I couldn’t let those two not be together, so I gave Avocado to Ariel. We hugged and cried happy tears.”

Ariel went off to college to become a helicopter mechanic, and guess who followed – Avocado. Ariel is a mother now, and when she comes home she visits the Farmer’s Market and talks about life with Sophie.

The pickle lady reminisces about the messes she had to clean up in school, saying if there wasn’t a mess, it wasn’t a school. The students respected her and gave her a hand when needed. She’ll never forget one bathroom where the boys kept missing the garbage can with their paper towels. So, she took the can home and painted it to look like a basketball hoop.

“The kids liked it. I liked it. Problem solved!”

Sophie was born into the gardening/ canning world since her mom and dad knew the importance of growing your own food in the Second World War era.

Her father fought in the Polish army and became a prisoner of war in a concentration camp until freed by American General George S. Patton.

Her mother was a war child who escaped Poland and ended up in a camp in Africa.

“The stories my mom shared broke my heart. When growing up my mom had to raid garbage cans for food. She found potato peels and brought them home where her grandmother made soup.”

After the war her parents came to Canada and moved to Brantford, four blocks away from where hockey legend Wayne Gretzky lived. They had four girls and a garden.

“Not an inch of space was empty. I was afraid to walk in there; you had to walk one foot in front of the other (like a driving under the influence test). It was the best garden on the block, and that garden was our grocery store.” Sophie said.

Continued on page 13

For more information or a copy of the plan, please contact Rocky Mountain Distric t Development Ser vices at 250 420-6550 or at rmddevapp@gov.bc.ca

Sophie Timothy has been a lady of many costumes over the years during her interactions with school children and staff.

Photo submitted

She thrives on obsessive canning disorder

Continued from page 12

The kids grew up with dirty nails as they picked, canned, baked, dried, and froze everything by hand. Years later, Dean was “hooked” by all this food and now Sophie can’t get rid of him, she laughs. “It must have been those hot onions and the dirt under my nails.”

It was only a matter of time before Sophie’s Original Choice was established, starting with pickled asparagus. From that point on, all of her chemical-free products were “packed with love and memories of my mom,” she says.

With customers from all over the world, Sophie could never produce enough; she was always running out of product. “They aren’t looking to cure my condition (OCD) because it keeps me alive.” It also gets kids eating vegetables that their parents thought they never would.

While Dean doesn’t have a green thumb like Sophie, he was experimenting one day and came up with his garden tower idea. These towers are made of big plastic barrels with slots to grow vegetables.

“Dean is so obsessed with his tower that he installed a solar night light at the top pointing down into his tomatoes in case he sees bugs from the deck,” Sophie chuckles. Seriously, she sees these towers as a solution to address the world’s food

security issues.

“There has to be billions of these barrels around and they can be recycled into these amazing garden towers. Can you imagine these barrels lined up on an acre of land with 40 growing slots in each barrel?”

Sophie says she can see these barrels feeding a lot of hungry people in Ukraine.

In the end, it’s really up to Mother Nature, she points out, noting that nothing is guaranteed anymore. “I think it’s something we have to live with. We have to go back to make, bake and grow and not depend on others.”

Sophie truly believes that change is needed to nurse the planet back to health, but it’s going to take a concerted effort from politicians, corporations and private citizens to make a difference.

“Our farmers can grow the best tasting produce in the world. It doesn’t ripen in a box, it ripens in their hands.”

As the sun sets after bargaining with the wind, rain and heat, she looks back at her other careers with great fondness – working with people with special needs and school children blossoming into mature adults. Now it’s time to open up a new chapter in her life. She’d love to work with seniors to make their later years more comforting. But don’t worry, she’ll still be in a pickle.

Sophie and Dean represent a lot of passion for farming. Dean is seen here maintaining his unique garden towers.

Photos submitted

Please watch your wake

By the Lake Windermere Ambassadors

The Lake Windermere Ambassadors can be contacted at info@lakeambassadors. ca or call the office at (250) 341-6898.

Understanding how to minimize your impact while enjoying recreation on the lake benefits not only you but all users of the lake – including people, birds, fish and wildlife. Each lake has unique physical, ecological and chemical features with differing recreational capacities and will respond differently to various stressors. For example, Lake Windermere has a soft sediment bottom and is a slow widening of the Columbia River with an average depth of only three to four metres.

Did you know that type of boat and speed influences wake size? Some powerboats can disturb lake bottoms up to six metres deep and a downward propeller wash can stir up lake beds (especially soft bottom lakes like Lake Windermere). Studies show that boat wakes in shallow waters can reintroduce previously settled phosphorus, nutrients and heavy metals back into the water column, and can increase turbidity. This can have a negative effect on drinking water and overall water quality while increasing the likelihood of algae blooms. Studies have also shown that propellers can rip up sensitive aquatic vegetation in shallow areas, affect native mussel habitat, and disrupt spawning beds and fish populations.

Boat wakes not only disturb lake bottoms but also impact shorelines. These transition zones, where the land meets the water, are unique and often high-

ly productive ecosystems. High wave energy from boat wakes can cause an increase in the rate of erosion of these shorelines, swamp shore bird nesting sites, and damage human infrastructures such as retaining walls, homes and docks. Lake Windermere sees thousands of boaters each year, and all this impact adds up!

Here are a few simple ways boaters can help to reduce these impacts on our lake:

• If you are travelling within 30 metres of the shore, a slower speed can help reduce the impact that the wake creates.

• If you are travelling in areas less than six metres in depth, going at a slower speed can help to reduce sediment resuspension. In Lake Windermere, there is a small area where the depth reaches around six metres. A depth map can be found on our website. If you are needing to travel at faster speeds, consider using this stretch of the lake.

• If boating at faster speeds, travel in straight lines up and down the middle of the lake and avoid going in circles, this helps to create more room for other boats in the deeper section of the lake.

• If you wish to be anchored or stationary, please avoid doing so in the deepest area on the lake, allowing for others wishing to travel at faster speeds the space to do so.

• Pay attention to your depth reader (if your boat is equipped with one).

• Learn more about how you can protect your lake on our website.

We are grateful to our generous sponsors and funders who support our work. For further information on our sources or to learn more about the work we do and how you can help, please visit our website at www.lakeambassadors.ca.

Photo submitted

District mulls TUP

Columbia Valley Pioneer Staff

A temporary use permit (TUP) to convert an office building into rental living space is being considered by the District of Invermere.

The application by North Invermere Holdings Inc. seeks to vary the existing zoning bylaw (Light Industrial Zone) to allow the conversion of an existing office building (bordering Industrial Road 1, 2, 3) into a four-bedroom, shared living space for employees and others in need of housing.

Residential use beyond a caretaker unit is not currently a permitted use within the M-1 Light Industrial Zone.

The remainder of the property, shop, and land is to be leased separately.

Temporary use permits have a term of up to three years with one extension of an additional three years.

Council will consider the application at its regular meeting on September 12 at 914-8th Avenue at 7 p.m.

Anyone who believes this permit affects their interest in the property may attend the meeting and make comment during public comment period. Alternatively, they can fax written comments to (250) 342-2934, email to planning@invermere.net or drop them off at the District of Invermere office by Friday Sept. 8 at noon.

Anyoe can inspect the proposed notification on the District of Invermere web site at https://invermere.net/news/

Learn to Swim

Painted turtles very patient

By Julia Magsombol Local Journalism Initiative julia@columbiavalleypioneer.com

Turtles are known to be one of the oldest members of the reptile family. The oldest reptile groups that existed were dated from 220 million years ago.

In Indigenous culture, they are known to be sacred creatures, and they are mostly viewed as timekeepers.

Painted turtles in BC

The western painted turtle is the remaining native freshwater turtle species that continues to live on the BC coast.

The male painted turtle can grow up to 17 centimetres long, weighing 800 grams. The females can grow up to 22 centimetres, weighing 1400 grams. The females are heavier as they have larger shells.

The top of painted turtle shells are usually black and green. They have yellow stripes on the head, neck, tail, and legs. A red marking also exists around their bellies. A female turtle can be distinguished by having light colouration, whereas the males have a darker colouration.

Painted turtles usually live in muddy ponds, small lakes and streams. They love staying in rivers with a lot of aquatic plants. They usually live in southern interior valleys, like the Rocky Mountain Trench north to Golden, the Creston and Nelson areas, the Okanagan Valley, and the Kamloops-Shuswap Lake area.

Their nest is within 150 metres of ponds and dikes. They need warm and dry soil to lay their egg. As they prefer warm places to give birth, a place where it includes floating logs and other sites surrounded by water is good habitat for them.

Males are sexually mature as young as four years old, and females can be at the age of seven or eight. They usually mate in spring, and the female lays white eggs from

June to July.

What is surprising is this process takes a long time. After the female lays eggs, they are incubated for another 70 to 80 days. They hatch in late August and early September. The hatchlings remain in the nest until the spring of next year.

With turtles being slow on land and having full lives after birth, they are truly patient. They are the epitome of the 'slowly but surely' phrase.

Painted turtles eat insects, larvae, snails, frogs, and tadpoles. They also digest aquatic plants. It is reported that young turtles are carnivores, and as they grow older, they become more herbivorous.

Endangered

According to the Nature Conservancy of Canada (NCC), Western painted turtles on the Pacific Coast are threatened. The main threats are habitat loss and road mortality. Human activity also affects their endangerment by illegal captivity.

The Kootenay conservation group is working to help protect the painted turtle. Read more at https://www. cbc.ca/news/canada/british-columbia/turtle-day-kootenays-1.6825184

Turtles in Indigenous communities

In Indigenous communities, turtles are very important. Most communities believe they represent healing, wisdom, safety, longevity, protection, and fertility. Due to the turtle's hard shells, they also believe that it represents protection and perseverance. Some communities believed that the turtles were part of creation. They believe that turtles went into the waters to retrieve mud to create Mother Earth.

To read more about painted turtles, visit: https:// www2.gov.bc.ca/assets/gov/environment/plants-animals-and-ecosystems/species-ecosystems-at-risk/brochures/painted_turtle.pdf.

Invermere Dairy Queen and a private donor delivered lots of ice cream bars to the Horsethief Creek wildfire camp kitchen last week. What a treat that was! Pictured is one of the hard working camp chiefs.

Photo submitted

For the love of Summer Reading Club

library to gather as a community and let our imaginations soar?

This week’s column was written by Blair McFarlane, Community Outreach Programmer at the Invermere Library, which is located at 646 4th St. Call 250-342-6416 for more information.

We have been “journeying through time” for this year’s Summer Reading Club (SRC), and what adventures we have been on! We’ve been archaeologists finding dinosaur bones, architects building bridges strong enough to hold 50 books, engineers launching bottle rockets, and so much more.

It has been a record-breaking summer with 104 kids registered for our Invermere SRC programs, 21 in Canal Flats and 20 in Edgewater. Even our Pop-up Storytimes for preschoolers have been averaging around 50 kids a week! Find us at Serenity Farm on August 18 at 10:30 a.m. and Edible Acres on the 25th at 10:30 a.m.

In my nine years of running SRC, this has been one of the best attended summers we’ve had. Thank you to everyone who has joined us on our journeys through time. What better place than the

We’ve handed out 125 reading logs for kids to keep track of their summer reading (and win a Lego mini figure). As of August 10, 18 logs have been returned, which equals approximately 290 hours of reading time. Logs will be accepted until September 8, so there is still lots of time to read and earn your prize.

Battle of the Ages

Our SRC wrap-up day is on August 22 and it will be the Battle of the Ages where three ancient civilizations will build their forts, shields, helmets, and weapons (pom-pom shooters). Then we will have a big battle in the yard! For ages 5-8, we will be battling from 11 a.m. to 12:30, and warriors ages 9-12 will battle from 2 to 3:30 p.m.

If you haven’t made it to the library this summer, this is the day to stop by and have some fun! Drop-ins are welcome.

Tech Hub open house

A reminder about our Tech Hub open house on Wednesday, August 23 from 3 to 7 p.m. Come see how you can digitize old slides, photos, VHS, records or DVDS. Come check out Photoshop and the full suite of Adobe apps. We’ll have our Apple pencils out to try digital drawing and lots more.

Everything in the Tech Hub is free to use and no library card is required.

FireSmart your home for added protection

Columbia Valley Pioneer Staff

FireSmarting your home cannot be overstated.

When a wildfire is threatening a structure, like someone’s home, the BC Wildfire Service deploys Structure Protection Specialists (SPS) to triage and coordinate structural defence.

They arrive on fires in trailers called Structural Protection Units (SPU), which contain a variety of specialized equipment. This includes sprinkler systems that moisten roofs and other surfaces to prevent embers from

igniting the structure.

Structure Protection Specialists prioritize the deployment of SPUs based on: how defensible a property is, fire activity and anticipated growth, where the need for SPU is greatest, and vailability of SPU resources.

But when you FireSmart your home, it makes everyone’s job much easier. For example, move flammable materials at least 10 metres away from buildings, and rake up leaves and pine needles to prevent burning embers from igniting them. And don’t forget to prune tree branches away from your roof .

Creativity among children is one of the many goals at the Invermere Library where learning opportunities are endless.

Photo submitted

BCWS photo

P

Al-Anon. Are you concerned about or affected by someone else’s drinking? Meeting

Mondays 7:15 pm. at Canadian Martyrs Parish front side door. 712 12 Ave. Invermere. For more information or to speak with someone from our fellowship, please call 250-8782448 or 250-342-8392.

Alcoholics Anonymous. If alcohol is causing problems or 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.

LISTINGS NEEDED!

IWANTTOSELL YOURHOUSE!

WHYLISTWITHGERRY?

✔ Website/SocialMedia

✔ 3DTour,YouTube,Drone

✔ Responsive,Local,Expert

LISTWITHGERRY: FORRESULTS!

*Notintendedto solicitthosealready workingwithanagent.

BUYINGOR SELLING CALL 250-341-1202 gerrytaft.ca PersonalRealEstateCorporation

RockiesWestRealty

Independentlyownedandoperated

Cheers to Sue Hoyne at Invermere post office for the great service. You are always so friendly, knowledgeable and willing to go the extra mile. I appreciate the help you give me.

Cheers to all the re ghters. Cheers to the people of the community that offered help and support people affected by the forest res. Your kindness and generosity is overwhelming.

Cheers to Carolyn and her staff at La Galeria in Fairmont. What a great store with the best clothing and bathing suit selection! The customer service is top notch!. It is well worth the short drive to Fairmont.

Cheers to Club Towing for being so respectful to walkers on the road.

A heartfelt cheers to Fairmont Lions, Mountainside & Riverside Ladies Golf, Fairmont Hot Springs Resort, Fairmont Mountainside Market & the many individuals making & delivering daily hot food, sandwiches & goodies to the pilots, engineers & volunteers based at the Fairmont Airport while working on the wildres around the valley.

Because Christina at The Pioneer front desk was so helpful, I was able to nd my car keys and also because Jhonna did the right thing. Cheers!

Cheers to Hopkins Harvest and their Swansea Sourdough baker! Authentic and insanely delicious with discreet “latte style” art on each. If you nd yourself upon some freshly baked loaves you’re in luck! But save a couple for me!

Cheers to Irena at Lambert Kipp Pharmacy for providing professional, caring advice about my medications and an inoculation.

Cheers to Jordan at Rocky River Grill. You are a fantastic server and a very hard worker. Great service!

Cheers to Marlene and her team at Coy's Bistro for making our family gathering an evening to remember! Everything was outstanding!

Cheers to the Thompson family: Tate, Avery Olin, & their father Curtis for the great tree trimming and the wonderful clean-up.

Cheers to Keija from The Blue Room Studio for the great pedicure. One of the best pedicures ever!

Cheers to the ower ladies at DOI. It’s so nice to look out the office window and see the lovely blooming owers. Great job!

Cheers to the good samaritan who stopped in at the Legion on August 10th and paid for all of the seniors' lunches.

Small Engine Repair

Phone 250-342-6068

THE HEARTFELT COMPANION:

Services for Seniors

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

Get-er-Done Handyman

Need landscaping?

Need Christmas lights hung?

Give Ryan a call. 604-346-5087 rgoertz4@gmail.com

Golf cart and lawn tractor tune-ups. Pick up and delivery service available. We buy used golf carts. Call Jeff 250-341-8146. Please leave a message.

B.B.'s Home & Design Services Renovations, Masonry & Handyman Services, Blinds. Cabin checks/ yard care/ eavestrough cleaning/dump runs. Call 250-688-2897

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 $299,000 + GST

For more information contact Elkhorn Ranches 250-342-1268 www.elkhornranches.com

George“Howard”Stafford,91,passedawaypeacefullyonAugust3,2023in Invermere,BC.withhisdaughterGayleathisside.

HowardwasborninCalgaryonApril14,1932andspenthisearlychildhoodyears inTurnerValley,AB,eventuallymovingwithhisparentsin1948toWetaskiwin, AB,wherehemetandmarriedhishighschoolsweetheartDoreenThorn,in1955. HowardandDoreensettledinCalgaryin1955wheretheyraisedtheirthree children.

AftergraduatingfromtheUniversityofAlbertawithadegreeingeology,Howard beganhisexemplaryoilandgascareerwiththeEnergyResourcesConservation Board,followinginthefootstepsasa4thgenerationoil&gasindustryworker. DuringhiscareerwiththeERCB(nowAER),Howardwasinvolvedintheevaluation ofoilandgasreservesandoilsands,regionalgeologicalstudies,andadministration ofprovincialregulatorypolicies.HowardwentontobeanadvisortotheAlberta SecuritiesCommissionandretiredfromtheEnergyResourcesConservationBoard in1987.

ONE BEDROOM CONDO

FH Springs, Riverview Road. Includes all utilities, including internet.

Corner deck, BBQ, re place, 2 - TV'S, New king bed. Well furnished, with great view. Available for 6 months, Oct to April, for one or two persons.

$1,500/month

Contact Don 1-204-389-4007 donmcd007@gmail.com

Please email classified ads to info@columbiavalleypioneer.com

Afterretiring,HowardandDoreenmovedpermanentlytotheirsecondhomein FairmontHotSpringswhereheplayedgolfallsummerandheadedsouthtothe USAandMexicoforthewinterstocontinuehispassionforgolf.Howardalso excelledinmanyothersportsthroughouthislifeincludingcurling,hockey,and baseball.

Howardwaspredeceasedbyhiswifeof67years,Doreen,andhissonGrant.He issurvivedbyhissonRodStafford(CindyOliver),hisdaughterGayleDougall (Morley);hisgrandchildrenCurtisStaffordandAdrianSanchez-Avery(Haydn) andtheirmotherCindyStafford,aswellas4greatgrandchildren,Blakely,Keaton andbrandnewtwingirlsHannahandWhitney.

Howard’sfamilycommendstheexemplaryandcompassionatecaregiventoHoward overtheyearsbyhisdoctor,Dr.MikeWalsh,ofInvermere,BC. Inlieuofflowers,pleasemakeadonationtothehealthcharityofyourchoice. Detailsofmemorialservicetobeannouncedatalaterdate.

Lost at Lake Lillian on August 2nd. 4 Blackfoot pedals and 4 aluminum rods for an inatable kayak. If found, please call 403-816-6379

Rocky Mountain Swim Lessons

welcomes swimmers back to Fairmont Hot Springs Resort. Please visit rockymountainswimlessons.ca to sign up online

AlmarieMargaretBowers

June10,1948-July28,2023

ItiswiththegreatestsadnessthatweannouncethepassingofAlmarieMargaret Bowers(Moreau)onJuly282023.AlmariewasbornonJune10,1948toAlexand MaryMoreauinPenetanguishene,Ontario.Whenshewasayoungadultshemoved westtoBanffandfellinlovewiththemountains.Almariemademanygoodfriends onthisadventureandkeptincontactwithmanyofthem.Almariethenmovedto BritishColumbiawhereshemet,fellinlovewithandmarriedJimBowers.Theywere marriedfor30yearsuntilhisuntimelydeathin2001.

Theresia G ertner

Sale and Gear Return

Sunday August 27th 9a-5p

at Sentinel Storage Unit A 78

All clients of Revolutions Gear Swap are invited to come pick up any remaining inventory. We will also be selling off any excess inventory for outdoor enthusiasts. It's worthwhile to come check it out.

Garage Sale. Aug.19. 9-3

8833 Dehart Road

Household items, treadmill, York weight machine, power tools ( cut-off saws, planer, tablesaw, and sawmill. Hand tools, motors—gas and diesel Highbanker sluice box and so much more!

Garage Sale

Saturday August 19, Sunday August 20 , 7a- 4p

Nice Harley Davidson leathers, lots of tools, welder and generator. electric golf carts with new batteries. $3000 8523 Eacrett Road, Radium Mountain Shadows Resort Lot 3

Almariewasastrongwoman(droveacrossCanadawith3smallchildren!!),afunny woman(nevercouldresistapun)andhadagreatloveformeetingnewpeople.Almarie hadmanydifferentjobs,butherfavoritewastheoneforwhichshevolunteered,the SPCAinKelowna.Sheputherheartandsoulintomakingsurethoseanimalsfound therighthome.Almarie’spassinghasleftahugeholeintheheartsofthepeoplewho lovedher.

AlmarieissurvivedbyherchildrenSusan(Roy)McMurter,Laurie(John)Turnbull; grandchildrenChris,Tucker,Josi,JamesandJax;great-grandchildWyatt;siblings Keith(Janice),MaryLou,Greg,ElizabethAnn(Rob),MaryEllen(Rob)(Denise); andherniecesandnephews.

Predeceasedbyherdadandmom(Alex&MaryMoreau),husbandJimBowers,son DavidBowersandbrotherErnestMoreau.

IwouldliketosendahugeTHANKYOUtothedoctors,nurses,careaidsand ambulanceattendantswholovinglycaredforourmom.Yourkindnesswashugely appreciated.

Dennis Gillies

December28,1941~August2,2023

InlovingmemoryofDennisGillies,whopassedawayin InvermereBConAugust2,2023.Hewasthedevotedhusbandof Arlene,lovingfatherofKevin(Nicole), Susan(Dean)andLesley,andproudgrandfatherofRiver, Sarah,Ben,Jake,StellaandGemma.Heissurvivedbyhis brothersRon(Darlene)andGord(Gail)andlifelongfriendof 75years,Patrick(Patricia)Carey.DenniswasbornonDecember 28,1941inRosetown,Saskatchewan,raisedhisfamilyinSaskatoon, SaskatchewanandmovedtoInvermerein2015.

Dennismadefriendsandspreadlaughterandwisdomwhereverhelivedandtravelled–whetheritwasaroundthecampfireatEmmaLake,inhisPalmSpringscommunity,orwalking theneighborhoodofCastleRock.Healwayshadastorytotellandnomatterthelocationor companyhewasbothmemorableandbeloved.

November30,1929~August5,2023

TheresiaClaraGertnerpassedawaypeacefullyatRiverRidge SeniorsVillageinMedicineHatonSaturday,August5,2023,at theageof93years.

Lefttocherishhermemoryareherchildren:GloriaGertner, PeggyCrouch,GladysBohnet,Phyllis(Marcel)Berube,Harold (Tana),Gertner,MarilynDonaldson(EricStills),Dale(Tammy) GertnerandDoug(Shannon)Gertner;grandchildren:April Albrecht,TeresaHansen,ShawnBohnet,LoganGertner,Dallas Dutchik,MontyGertner,AmberBennett,TimDonaldson,Adam Gertner,JordanGertner,JustinGertnerandLayneGertner;17 great-grandchildrenand4great-great-grandchildren.Shewill alwaysberememberedbyherniecesandnephews-especially hersister,Mary’skidswhofrequentlyvisitedher.

Theresiawaspredeceasedby10siblings;thefatherofherchildren,PhilipGertner;twobrothers-in-law,PaulandChris;two grandchildren,MichaelDonaldsonandKelvinMeier;twosonsin-law,StanCrouchandLorneWebster.

TheresiawasborntoMargarethaandJosephBuettnerinthe Rosenthalarea.ShestartedhermarriedlifeonthefarminFox Valleyhowever,aftertenyearsdecidedtomovetoMedicine Hat.Theresiawasalwaysbusycooking,baking,canning,cleaningandsewing.Shealsohadatalentforpaintingandcould paintaroomwithoutusinganytape!

Theresialatermovedtoothervarioustownsbeforeendingupin CanalFlats,B.C.Shelivedtherefor15yearsandworkedat FairmontHotSpringsResorttheentiretime.Shemadealotof friendsbutalwaystalkedoftheHat.

WhenTheresiamovedbacktotheHat,herhealthbegantofail asshesufferedaseriousbrainaneurysm.Shewasnever expectedtosurvivebutthroughdetermination,shemadeitback toindependentliving.

Shelovedplayingcardsandtaughtthegrandkidshowtoplay andplaytowin!BingowasanotherpassionforTheresia.She wasstilldoingpuzzles,cards,andbingoinherfinalweekofher life.

Large 5 bedroom home in Fairmont. $2500/month Smokers need not apply. Clean responsible renters required. Available September 1

Call Garry 250-341-7304

12 foot kayak

$275

Call 250-688-1544

Hehadabrilliantmechanicalmindandcouldfixorbuildprettymuchanything.Hefirstused histalentsasanairconditioningandrefrigerationrepairmanandlaterinhiscareerhesharedhis expertiseasaknowledgeableandrespectedinstructorattheSaskatchewanInstituteofApplied SciencesandTechnology(SIAST),nowknownasSaskatchewanPolytechnic.

Denniswasextremelyactiveandexercisedthroughouthislife–biking,walkingandplaying oldtimershockeyuntiltheageof70.Helovedsportsandparticularlyenjoyedseeinghis grandsonsplayhockey,soccerandvolleyball.Hewasacommittedgymmember,somuchso thathewasgivenalifetimemembershiptotheSIASTgymuponhisretirementandwasoneof theoldestmembersofValleyFitnessCentreinInvermere.

Denniswasadedicatedfamilymanandtookpleasureinanyandeverytimespenttogether. Familyholidayswerespentcamping,hiking,boating,waterskiingandroastingmarshmallows attheEmmaLakecabinandskiingatPanorama.Hisgrandchildrenwerehisgreatestpride,and hecreatedanabundanceofunforgettablememorieswiththem.

Dennis’slifewastrulyonewell-livedandloved.Hetouchedeveryonehemetwithhis humourandbigheart.Hewillalwaysberememberedwithjoyandlaughter.

OurfamilyisincrediblygratefultothenursingstaffatInvermereDistrictHospitalwho showedourdadandfamilysuchcompassionandempathyinhislastweeksoflife.Alsoa sincerethankyoutoDrWeberwhowentaboveandbeyondtoprovidesupportfordadinhis finaljourney.TheroomsinPalliativeCarewereaplaceofcomfortandsolaceforourfamily.

Inlieuofflowers,donationsmaybemadetotheInvermereHealthCareAuxiliarySociety (directto PalliativeCare)Box571,InvermereBCV0A1K0

ACelebrationofLifewillbeheldonSaturdaySeptember91:00–3:00PM

attheResidenceofArleneandDennisGillies: #12600RiverRockWay(CastleRock)InvermereBC

HealthissuescontinuedwithAlzheimer’ssettinginandshehad beenlivinginvariouscarehomes.Forthelastfiveyearsshe residedatRiverRidgeSeniorsVillagewheresomeofthestaff treatedherlikegold.Thankyoufromallofus!Livingto93years ofageisabigachievementespeciallywhenyouconsiderallof theobstaclessheovercame.Momfinallygotherwings...no morewheelchair!

Momwascrematedwithdignityandhermemorywillbesilently rememberedbyfamilyandfriends.

(Condolencesmaybeexpressedbyvisitingwww.cooksouth land.com)Honouredtoservethefamilyis

Spark BessieMae

December8,1934

~August7,2023

BornBessieMaeDunseathandgrewuponthe homesteadinCarrotRiver,Sask.SheMarriedAndy SparkinRosetownonJuly26,1954.Theymovedto Calgaryandhad3boys-Douglas,Randall&Wade.

ShewasalifeguardatKillarneypoolfor 30years.Bessie&Andywereavidhockey parents,CCskiers,&lovedtocamp/coffee/ drinkBlackRussianswithfriendsandfamily.

Andypassedawayin2001.Bessie’shealth deterioratedafteracardiaceventin2021until shesufferedastrokeonAug7,2023which tookherlife,butnotherspirit.Asshesaidon manyoccasions;“I’velivedagreatlifeandifI hadtodoitalloveragain,Iwouldn’tchange athing!”SheissurvivedbyhersisterBeatrice (&Dave)andher3sons(+TrevorGadd)& theirfamilies-whoalladoredBessieMae.

Ifyouwouldliketodonate,Bessie supportedSTARSandtheWildlifeSociety, orjustgoplaybingooneSundayafternoon!

MariaEgresits

July4,1925—July30,2023

MariawasborninFuzesabony,Hungaryand cametoCranbrookin1957,whereshefound herhusbandSandorandwherehersonAlex anddaughterKathywerebornbeforemovingto Invermere,whereherchildrengrewup.Herolder daughterMarikaarrivedfromHungaryin1965. Mariawasalovingmotherandwife.Sheenjoyed manycraftsandgardening,andshewasan amazinghostessandlovedtosocialize. Mariawillbemisseddearlybyallwhoknewher. PredeceasedbyherhusbandSandorEgresits,and great-grandsonKaidenFinley.

SheissurvivedbyherdaughterMarikaRoberton, sonAlexEgresits(Dawne)andDaughterKathy Allenby(Don)andmanygrandchildren,great grandchildrenandgreat,greatgrandchildren.

HELP

WANTED

POSITIONSAVAILABLE CONSTRUCTIONLABOURER CAPENTER’SASSISTANT

NiaxDevelopmentIncishiringforthe positionsofconstructionlabourerand carpenter’sassistant.

Wageis$25-$35/hrwithfullbenefits. 40+hours/weekstartingimmediately.

Contactatinfo@niax.ca

NiaxDevelopmentInc.

T 250-688-0780

BrainardCustomContractingisgrowing again,righthereintheColumbiaValley!

Wearehiringfor SkilledLabourers and SiteLeaders tojoinourteam.Wageswillbe negotiatedbetween$25-50/hour,dependingon experience.

WhatwehavetoofferYOU:

» Topwagesinthevalley

» Monday-Friday,noweekends

» Flexiblescheduletoassistwithpersonaland familyneeds

» Anemployerthatrespectsandvaluesyou!

July8th,1941

-August7th,2023

82YearsOld

lawspouseSandraThetfordof20years;his3daughter’sAnne TemplewithhusbandKyle,SusanneWolstenholmewith husbandCurtisandJenniferSteeveswithhusbandRussell; hisgrandchildrenAshley,Haylee,Tianna,Joss,Sarah,Jacob, John,ColeandTaylor;hisgreat-grandchildrenHudsonand Ariah;hisbrotherMarvinPalmer,sisterSherryPaulandhis latesisterElaineSmithalongwithmanycousins,nieces, nephewsandfriends.Hewaspredeceasedbyhisparents Capt.John(Jock)EnderPalmerandIvyTegartPalmer.

JohnwasbornonJuly8th,1941inLethbridge,Alberta. HeandhisfamilymovedtoHighRiver,Albertawherehe graduatedfromHighRiverHighSchool.Afterhighschool Johnpursuedhishockeycareerbyplayingbothjuniorhockey andsemi-pro.

ProceedinghishockeycareerJohnmovedtoCalgaryand pursuedacareerinrealestateworkingforMiltonandRoyal LePagefor20+years.Tiredofthehustleandbustleofcity lifeJohnmovedtothesmallcommunityofBrisco,BCwhere helivedontheRock-a-booRanchwhichisnestledinthe ColumbiaValley,alsowherehisancestorsresidedformany years.Thereheraisedquarterhorses,cattleandsheep.

Johnwasanavidpainter,storyteller,andpoet.Heenjoyed spendingtimewithfamilyandfriendsandwasveryproudof hisheritage.HisfatherCapt.JohnEnderPalmer(nickname Jock)isknownasthe“GrandfatherofAlbertaAviation” andJohnisalsoadescendantofoneofthefirstpioneering familiesoftheColumbiaValley.

Funeralserviceswillbeheldoffatthis timeandacelebrationofJohn’slifewilloccur inthesummerof2024.

DirectorofProgramManagement

Hours:upto30hoursperweek

Startdate:September1,2023

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

WhatyouneedtoofferUS:

» Mustbereliableandrespecthardwork

» Mustwanttobepartofateamandhavea greatattitude

» Musthaveownvehicleforworkwithinthe ColumbiaValley

Pleaseemaillistofqualificationsto: BrainardCustom@gmail.com

Welookforwardtoworkingwithyou!

John William Ender Palmer passedawayonMonday, August7thattheageof82.Johnissurvivedbyhiscommon-

JohnWilliam EnderPalmer

‘Yee-haw’ Scooter Rodeo a blast for all

Columbia Garden Village hosted its’ third Scooter Rodeo on Tuesday, Aug. 8, featuring many games, obstacles and races. One RCMP officer even rode around on a borrowed scooter to get a feel for it. No speeding tickets were handed out that day.

SeekingCommunityVolunteers

EastKootenayAccessibilityAdvisoryCommittee

WeareseekingindividualswhowouldliketojointhenewlyestablishedEastKootenayAccessibility AdvisoryCommittee.

Applicationscanbefilledoutat engage.rdek.bc.ca/accessibility orpickedupattheColumbiaValleyorCranbrookRDEKoffices DeadlinetosubmitapplicationsisAugust28,2023

Aspartofthenew AccessibleBritishColumbiaAct andassociatedregulation(BCReg105/2022),an accessibilitycommitteewillbeestablished,anaccessibilityplanwillbedeveloped,andawayfor publictoprovidefeedbackregardingaccessibilitywillbecreated.

Tofacilitatetheworkofthe AccessibleBritishColumbiaAct,theEastKootenayAccessibilityAdvisory Committeewasformed.InadditiontotheRDEK,theparticipatingmunicipalitiesaretheCityof Cranbrook,theVillageofCanalFlatsandtheDistrictofInvermere.

ThepurposeoftheEastKootenayAccessibilityPlanistoidentify,removeandpreventbarriersto individualsinorinteractingwiththeRDEKandmembermunicipalities.Barriersmaybepresentin thebuiltenvironment,informationandcommunications,orthedeliveryofprogramsorservices thatarewithintheRDEK’sandmembermunicipalities’jurisdiction.

Photos submitted

That end-of-life discussion

By Brent Woodard Anglican/ United Church

When I first started in ministry in 1983, in a small prairie town, there was an end-of-life culture. Most everyone had a funeral service, in a church or the funeral chapel, led by a religious leader, whether the people were religious or not. The minister was the only person who spoke, including giving the eulogy. We sang the same somber funeral hymns at every service because that’s what people knew.

Gradually, this end-of-life culture changed. We moved from mostly full-casket funerals to mostly cremation/memorial services. Increasingly, more people participated. Family and friends gave eulogies. PowerPoint presentations were added. There was an open time for people to share a story or memory. Grandchildren or friends read scripture. Music, both sacred and secular, was uplifting and meaningful. The service felt more spiritual and less religious.

Forty years ago, there weren’t many options for how people could honour a loved one after they passed. Today, there are options. For example, when my father passed away, we invited friends to a restaurant and, after the meal, people shared a memory, and then we had a toast

to him. It felt honouring and fitting.

I know some people ask that there is no service, no gathering, no “celebration of life” for them after they die. I wonder if they don’t know of the options that are possible these days. I wonder if they think end-of-life celebrations have to be religious. I wonder if they think endof-life gatherings need to be sad and they don’t want their loved ones to be sad. I wonder if they are being humble and modest and don’t want people to make a fuss because of them. (Maybe they’re afraid of what people will say about them.)

In life’s journey we celebrate people when there is a birthday, graduation, wedding, retirement and at Christmas. It’s a way of saying “I’m glad you are you, that you are in this world and that you are in my/our life.” That’s a nice message to give and to receive.

I know there are other important aspects to an endof-life commemoration – acknowledgment and sharing of the loss, change and grief; showing support and care; recognizing that death often invites deeper reflection on what life is about. It is thoughtfully said that a commemoration is not for the one who died, but for the ones left behind. A good question to ask then is “what do I/they need to say goodbye, to say thank you, to have pain acknowledged, to heal, to carry on?”

I invite us to have conversations with loved ones about what might be helpful, fitting and meaningful for us, for them, at this time of our journey.

CWA reaches milestone

Submitted by Cycling Without Age Invermere

The Invermere chapter of Cycling Without Age (CWA) is very excited to announce that since its inception in 2018, it has reached the milestone of giving 10,000 kilometres of rides to more than 1700 wonderful passengers.

It has been a fantastic journey and the support from the entire community has been overwhelming. A huge shout out to all the awesome volunteers who make these

rides so enjoyable; the resulting smiles make it worthwhile.

The group looks forward to many more years of seeing the freedom and enjoyment these simple rides provide to everyone involved.

New volunteers are always welcome. If you are looking for a very rewarding, fulfilling, and flexible volunteer opportunity, CWA wants to hear from you.

For more information, contact Blaine Nester at blaine.nester@gmail.com.

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

Cycling Without Age Invermere has provided 10,000 kilometres of rides to many passengers since its inception in 2018.

Photo submitted