Columbia Valley Pioneer - August 24, 2023

Photo by Chris Moseley

In top photo, the beauty of green and farming in Brisco. At right, when peaks are socked in with smoke, why not chase waterfalls? You don’t have to go to far to find this one at Templeton/Salmon Falls Rec Site in Brisco.

Photos by Ryan Watmough

Horsethief Creek evacuation alert rescinded

Columbia Valley Pioneer Staff

“Progress” has resulted in the Horsethief Creek wildfire evacuation alert being rescinded.

The Regional District of East Kootenay (RDEK) reports that the alert for the Lake Enid, Bear Mountain and Horsethief Creek areas has been lifted.

“In spite of challenging weather and fire conditions last week, the BC Wildfire Service has continued to make progress and have the fire in a place where they felt comfortable recommending the alert be lifted.” says Emergency Operations Centre Information Officer Loree Duczek. “This is a good day. It is not easy being on alert, particularly when the fire behaviour is elevated and visible as it has been on this fire, and I want to acknowledge the residents of the alert area for their resilience and cooperation over the past three-plus weeks.”

The alert had been in place since July 24 and affected 27 dwellings.

Although it has been lifted, the BC Wildfire Service continues to action the fire and it will remain an active worksite. The “area restriction” remains in place and closed to public access. To view the map visit www.bcwildfire.ca.

The rescind along with the corresponding maps can be found on the evacuations and alerts page under Emergency Information on www.rdek.bc.ca.

Conditions remain extremely dry and in spite of the potential for rain this week, all residents of East Kootenay need to remain diligent, aware and prepared, says Duczek. Along with the potential for precipitation is the potential for thunderstorms and lightning, which could cause new fire starts.

The Horsethief Creek fire is still mapped at approximately 3,900 hectares. Work continues monitoring guards and hotspots.

The BCWS says last Friday’s wind event tested containment lines and the fire remained within guards, with the exception of small spots that have been extinguished.

The evacuation alert for the Panorama/Toby Creek area (926 dwellings) was also rescinded. Structure protection has been demobilized in that area where it’s no longer required.

Resources across the Horsethief Complex are downsizing (including Mia and Yearling Creek fires) where they are no longer necessary.

Guards to protect priority areas have

been established and tested, and forecast weather conditions will be cool and showery. Firefighters will continue to monitor and patrol the fires, extinguish any hotspots and strengthen containment in priority areas.

The RDEK reminds everyone who uses the backcountry to ensure they are looking at the BC Wildfire Service map before they travel. Determine if it’s a good place to go. If your destination is in (or

near) an area with active fires, this is not the time to go there. Choose an alternate location, or postpone your adventure until conditions improve.

Determine if there is an area restriction in effect. If there is, it is critical to look at the area restriction detail page and map and stay out of closed/restricted areas. To view the area restrictions for this region, visit: https://www2.gov.bc.ca/…/ fir…/southeast-fire-centre-bans

Mexican crews work to clear grass and weeds away from power poles to protect electrical utilities during the Horsethief Creek wildfire.

Photo by BCWS

SECURITY SECURITY

RCMP Report

UST C ALL R YAN 4035104098

Corporal Jeff Witzke Columbia Valley RCMP

This past week, August 14 to 20, the Columbia Valley RCMP responded to 100 calls for service.

On August 16 police were made aware of a theft of a pedal bike from a local shop in Invermere. Members were able to positively identify the suspect and with the help of the local community, the individual was located. He was arrested and the stolen bike was recovered. Charges are pending.

On August 18 the RCMP along with fire and EHS responded to a serious motor vehicle collision between a car and a motor home on Hwy 93/95 between Invermere and Radium. It is believed that one of the vehicles crossed left of centre and collided head on with the other. One person was taken to hospital in critical condition while

Lake

Submitted by Lake Windermere Ambassadors, August 15, 2023

ACCEPTINGFUNDINGAPPLICATIONS

ThePanoramaFoundationisabout supportingcommunityprojectsproviding cultural,environmentalandsocialbenefits intheColumbiaValley.

Pleasereachoutto: panorama.foundation@panoramaresort.com toreceiveanapplicationorformoreinformation.

Wewillreviewallfundingapplications atournextboardmeetingon Thursday,September7,2023.

Average Water Temperature: 22.1

Average Water Depth (m): 4.87

Average Turbidity (NTU): 1.4

Average D.O. (mg/L): 8.5

Average pH (H+): 8.0

It was a sizzling sunny day on the lake for sampling today. A big thank you to Gavin Jacobs for being our volunteer boat captain for water quality sampling again this year. Gavin has been a volunteer with the ambassadors for over 10 years now! If you are interested in volunteering with the Ambassadors, please visit our website or email Pam at Intern@lakeambssadors. ca to find current volunteer opportunities.

Thanks to our sponsors: Columbia Basin Trust,

the others were treated for minor non-life-threatening injuries. BC Highway Patrol has taken over the investigation. Police are asking anyone who may have witnessed or have dash cam footage of the incident to notify them as soon as possible.

Later that evening police were called to Canal Flats to deal with an intoxicated male causing issues at Flats Fest.The individual had been kicked out of the event, however kept attempting to get back in. Once police arrived the suspect attempted to make a run for it but was apprehended in quick order by security personnel. The suspect was arrested and lodged in cells for the evening.

On August 20 members were dispatched to a complex in Radium where some guests were reported to be intoxicated, yelling and slamming doors and were no longer welcome. Two individuals were arrested and lodged in cells for the night to prevent any further issues.

www.lakeambassadors.ca

Totem Charitable Foundation, BC Gaming, District of Invermere, Regional District of East Kootenay, TD Friends of the Environment Foundation, Columbia Valley Community Foundation, Columbia Valley Local Conservation Foundation, and British Columbia Conservation Foundation.

Situation Table to reach out to vulnerable

By Lyonel Doherty lyonel@aberdeenpublishing.com

Work is underway in the Columbia Valley to establish a “Situation Table” to start reaching out to vulnerable people in crisis as early as this fall.

Corporal Jeff Witzke from the Columbia Valley RCMP can’t help but think this collaborative group could have made a difference in the life of one homeless person who passed away last summer.

“This person had nowhere to live, had alcohol addictions and I'm sure other mental health issues,” the officer said. “We, the police, were made aware of his conditions as were other stakeholders, however, we only dealt with him at his worst as would other agencies. If we had the ‘table’ we could have discussed this matter collectively and approached this person when he was sober and offered support and services.”

Witzke explored this successful model while he was working at another detachment and helped in the initial stages of setting up the table there. These government-funded community safety hubs work in other communities such as Kelowna, Penticton, Terrace and Campbell River where local agencies sit at a table to identify vulnerable individuals and connect them to services before they experience a crisis (as opposed to reacting after a traumatic event).

These tables empower agencies to reduce risks (of victimization, overdose, eviction, etc.) that can impact a person’s safety and well-being. In the long term, these service referrals can reduce the demand on emergency and police resources. Police often find themselves responding to calls that are not criminal in nature but primarily related to addiction and mental health issues. Some communities now have a program where mental health experts accompany the RCMP during patrols to better assist in these calls.

Witzke said the Columbia Valley table has been approved for funding and is currently in the training stage. He noted that some of the agencies involved include School District 6, Interior Health, Family Dynamix, Victim Services, and local Indigenous bands.

The officer stated this model has proven to reduce crime, but the other aim is to reduce the burden on social service providers.

“This model allows all agencies/stakeholders to work together and collectively offer support and services to those vulnerable/high-risk persons on a ‘good day’ opposed to only dealing with them when in crisis.”

Witzke said they hope to have the table up and running this fall.

Area F director Susan Clovechok said she is very pleased to hear that Cpl. Witzke's efforts to start a Situation Table in the Columbia Valley are gaining traction.

RDEK gearing up for new 911

Columbia Valley Pioneer Staff

A next generation 911 emergency system is on its way across Canada, and the Regional District of East Kootenay (RDEK) is preparing for it with the help of $45,000 in funding.

“We are grateful to the Ministry of Citizen’s Services for these funds and look forward to working with our 911 delivery partners at E-Comm and Kelowna Fire Dispatch to determine how to best prioritize its use,” said RDEK board chair Rob Gay.

The funding has been provided to all local governments and modern treaty First Nations to support the local implementation of the new 911 system. The money can be used for everything from public education to mapping, GIS, and staff training.

“At this time, we are awaiting more details on what the new system will look like, how it will operate, and what the expectations will be for local governments around its implementation, said Gay. “Once we have those details, we will best be able to determine how we will utilize this funding for maximum impact.”

The new 911 will modernize the current system to allow for newer technology such as video and real-time text and will include greater capacity for 911 operators to gather situational awareness and location information from callers.

The RDEK has until August 2, 2026 to utilize the approved funding, which is part of a $150 million dollar commitment by the province to assist with technological upgrades and implementation costs. The new system is anticipated to be in place across Canada in March 2025.

RDEK chair Rob Gay says the board is awaiting more details on what the new 911 system will look like and how it will operate in the region. File photo

“Having various agencies collaborate to provide people with the care and the services they need in a timely manner is obviously in the best interest of the individual, but also good for their family and our communities,” she said. “This type of initiative makes sense as it focuses the appropriate resources on the individual. “Whenever we can have organizations and agencies collaborate effectively on any situation our communities can only benefit.”

Area F director Susan Clovechok is anticipating the social benefits of the Situation Table. File photo

Helping the vulnerable

Our very own “Situation Table” is making its way to the Columbia Valley and it’s just what the social crisis doctor ordered. But not everyone is convinced that this model works.

On paper, these collaborative hubs are a great idea, a model enthusiastically utilized in other BC communities where vulnerable people have fallen through the cracks, consumed by homelessness, addiction, and a myriad of mental health problems.

The table consists of a group of agencies that work together to identify at-risk individuals and connect them with the services they need to address or overcome their personal crisis. It could be a local teen who steals to provide for his family, or a single mother at the end of her rope and facing eviction. The scenarios are plenty and more than represent what’s going on in our society today. It appears that people are struggling with more social ills than ever before. All you have to do is look around. In Kelowna, for example, a family was recently dining in a downtown patio when they were accosted by a street person who demanded food off their plates, leading to an altercation. In another incident, a man reported that a street person kicked his car while he was picking up a pizza order in Kelowna. The suspect reportedly accused the driver of “stalking” his lady and allegedly threatened him with a gun.

Something really has to be done about this as innocent people seem to be routinely victimized on a daily basis. So, perhaps these “situation tables” are the answer. It makes sense to reach out to these offenders to determine what the root problem is and offer them the help they need. The fact is these individuals are taking up valuable emergency resources that are better utilized elsewhere. Too often police officers are tied up dealing with people’s mental health issues rather than focusing on the real criminals creating havoc on our streets.

Of course, there are the naysayers who argue that Situation Tables are violating people’s privacy and have little oversight or accountability. But some members will tell you that these tables are working and have shown the intended results by matching at-risk individuals with appropriate services. And it’s all confidential and voluntary.

The Centre for Public Safety and Criminal Justice Research at the University of the Fraser Valley reported (last year) that Situation Tables appear to be theoretically sound but notes there have been no comprehensive assessments on their success.

Either way, it’s a step in the right direction to at least reach out and do something instead of ignoring a problem that appears to be spiraling out of control.

Lyonel Doherty, editor

Mayor takes hat off to responders

On July 24, Invermere and Columbia Valley residents and visitors heard about, and soon saw, the smoke from the Horsethief Creek wildfire. What started as a small wildfire that afternoon quickly grew by the end of its first day into a major concern for the people living, working, and vacationing in the Invermere and Panorama Resort area. As anyone here at that time could see the flames of the wildfire were backlighting the crest of Bruce Mountain, a sight of concern for everyone in the area. Fortunately, that night the prevailing wind direction changed which helped redirect the fire away from developed areas and services. We should, however, not forget that other communities have not been as fortunate and have been heavily impacted this summer by wildfires including the ?aq'am community where the St. Mary’s River wildfire destroyed several homes and other structures less than month ago, and very recently the devastating wildfires that have swept through West Kelowna and the communities near Shuswap Lake.

Since July 24, many BC Wildfire Service firefighters, now supported by firefighters from the USA, Australia, Mexico, and elsewhere, have been deployed to the Columbia Valley and the East Kootenay region to help contain and suppress the Horsethief Creek wildfire and many other wildfires that have sprung up in the region. Currently it is estimated that more than 250 personnel have been deployed to the Columbia Valley area to help fight local wildfires (e.g., Horsethief Creek, Yearling Creek, Mia Creek, Birchlands Creek, Jubilee Mountain, Castle Mountain, and others). In addition to personnel, many helicopters, water bombers, other fixed wing aircraft, pieces of heavy equipment, fire trucks, and structural protection units, have been deployed every day for

the last month to help support this important work.

On behalf of Invermere council, and the people of Invermere, a ‘big thank you’ to all of the wildfire personnel (front line personnel, contractors, pilots, heavy equipment operators, incident command, and support staff) who are helping to keep our homes and communities safe from wildfires.

We also are sending out a big thank you to Emergency Operations Centre personnel, Emergency Support Services volunteers, and Search & Rescue teams, who have responded by working day and night to support firefighting efforts and the people put on alert (or evacuated) to date. And finally, a big thank you to residents and businesses that have responded by giving help to others during their time of need.

While we don’t know what the next several weeks of warm summer weather will do, we can expect to see more wildfire activity during part of it. Everyone living or working in Invermere and the Columbia Valley area is therefore urged to ensure they are prepared to respond appropriately to evacuation alerts or orders. If you have not already registered for the Voyent Emergency Notification System with the RDEK, please do so. It is one of the best ways to be notified in the event an evacuation alert or order is issued. To do so, use the following link: https://www.rdek.bc.ca/. To learn more about how to prepare your home or family during wildfire season, or for any emergency, visit Prepared BC at: https://www2. gov.bc.ca/gov/content/safety/emergency-management/ preparedbc. And for the latest information about local wildfires in B.C., visit www.bcwildfire.ca.

Keep safe and keep calm.

Mayor Al Miller, District of Invermere

Graduate expresses legitimate concern

The following is a letter to School District 6 and the board of trustees

I am a 2023 graduate and valedictorian of David Thompson Secondary School. I am writing to voice both my observations and concerns in regards to the senior administration of School District 6.

Over the last two years, countless SD6 staff have taken leave, resigned, or quit. Coincidences do happen, but I have a different idea.

During my time at DTSS, I was a member of the District Student Advisory Council (DSAC), so I spent some time with senior administration. Every time we would have a meeting, I had this bad gut feeling. Some administrators would do their best to seem interested for five minutes, and then would either answer their phone, or leave for a meeting. Wait, aren’t we at a meeting?

Ironically, on community engagement night, one administrator was more engaged to their cell phone. Interesting, how can administrators of our district know what's best for students when they don't appear to have genuine interest or compassion?

Visions, missions, strategic plans, data analysis. Cool, but we’re not trying to franchise an IKEA. 'Limitless potential' sounds like a Nike slogan. We're children. Each student is too complex to fit within

the confines of a strategic plan. 'Limitless potential' is not curriculum based. Not data based. Not percentage based. It's individuality. It’s curiosity. It’s passion.

Guess what? Teachers have a passion too. They teach, guide, and inspire hundreds of little humans each day. Arguably one of the most fulfilling jobs, don’t you think? So I can only imagine how difficult it would be for a teacher making the tough decision of leaving because they feel they can no longer teach, guide, and inspire students in this environment that is SD6. I know some of the teachers personally who have left, and they left feeling defeated, frustrated, and disappointed.

So, what’s the solution? Reconsider the corporate heads of SD6? Maybe (it would help). But I think you have to pull the curtain back. I don't mean a new slogan or survey. I mean understanding the students, how they learn, what motivates them, what keeps them curious. Trust me, sitting at a desk with no movement while a phone is buzzing in your pocket, listening to a monotone lecture being read from a textbook written 40 years ago doesn't cut it today. You have to listen to the teachers and students, and be adaptive to the change or you will lose the battle. Remember who all of this is for. They are the future.

Daven McMurray, Invermere

Do you or don’t you tip? That is the big question

Have to look up the definition for the word “tipping?”

Well, there are many definitions and the reference to offering someone a percentage on top of the cost of goods was low on the list. One that was at the top was: Tipping was brought over from Europe in the early 1900’s to help people out that struggled because they were in lower paying jobs, mainly in the hospitality industry. The purpose of leaving some extra above the cost of the food was to recognize “exemplary service.”

Has this action become expected instead of earned?

Do you tip even if the food was bad, the service was less than expected or you feel sorry for them? Do you tip but the service you received was unsatisfactory?

Recently I came across a restaurant

that outlined suggested amounts to tip at the bottom of my check. One amount shocked me: 40 per cent!

Did you know that tipping in Canada is not mandatory? There are a number of “service industries” that never or rarely see a tip. Every shop you go into is providing a “service,” are they not? If you tip for a cup of coffee, why don’t you tip your shoe salesperson? Your butcher? Your baker? Your pharmacist? Your grocery cashier? Aren’t they providing service? Your book seller? I could go on.

I was recently told by a manager when I asked for a small donation for an event, “I’m sorry we have reached our allotment for donations this year, so therefore I can’t help you out.”

Perhaps I can use this excuse the next time I go out for a drink, a haircut or a burger.

Sorry, no tip today, I have reached my allotment for tips this year. Don’t we all have a “tipping point?”

Is tipping getting out of hand?

Elle Warner, Invermere

“Has this action become expected instead of earned?”

‘Bones of Crows’ filled with horror, hope

By Julia Magsombol Local Journalism Initiative julia@columbiavalleypioneer.com

For over a hundred years, thousands of Indigenous children were taken by the Canadian government and forcibly sent to residential schools where they were imprisoned under the rule of religious officials.

Many children died behind the walls of these frightening institutions, and their bodies are still being discovered in unmarked graves. Many survivors continue to suffer and struggle to find peace and justice. Their stories are unimaginable and painful to hear, but it is quite different to see it play out in a movie Bones of Crows, a Canadian film released in spring 2023.

The film is about the genocide that took place in these schools. Written and directed by Métis director Marie Clements, it focuses on the perspective of the protagonist, Aline Spears (played by Grace Dove, Carla-Rae, and Summer Testawich), a Cree woman who was taken to a residential school in Manitoba with her three siblings in the 1930s.

The film is challenging to watch for some people as it tackles the negative lifetime effects of the residential school on the characters. The movie revolves around

mental health issues and the long-time trauma on families as well.

The movie has a non-linear plot, showing every significant and memorable moment of the characters' lives — good or bad; it makes it easier to understand each of their present actions and choices.

For Aline, her present life seems to be affected whenever she remembers her time in the school. In one scene, the old Aline remembers being punished when she stood on the stool outside during the winter, damaging her hands. She loses consciousness in this part of the movie. She stands up on a stool once again outside of her home. With her children's help, she regains consciousness.

Aline’s husband, Adam Whallach (played by Phillip Lewitski and Tyler Peters), is also one of the significant characters in the movie. He suffers from a drinking addiction and survives the war. But he also suffers from the flashbacks of when he attended a residential school and witnessed a suicide. As a handicapped non-status Indigenous veteran, he could not get any support from the government. Through him, the audience learns how a man can be failed by his country by being Indigenous. Adam is traumatized by the horror of the school and the war, which leads him to some of his choices at the end

The hard-hitting film ‘Bones of Crows’ takes a bleak look at residential schools and their long-lasting effects on families.

One of the major supporting characters is Aline’s sister, Perseverance Spears (played by Alyssa Wapanatâhk, Sierra Rose McRae, and Kwetca'min Dawn Pierre); like Adam, she also suffers from addiction. She would also have several flashbacks, which made her addictions severe, and she eventually lost her children to this.

The three characters survived the school, but not the trauma and painful memory it gave them.

To go over what's in this film is what Canada's Indigenous Peoples need to face and endure. Again, their existence seems to be failed by the Canadian government, justified through colonialism and racism.

This movie proves how residential schools and the trauma they gave to survivors can never be forgotten, and it’s all engraved in their minds and hearts.

At the same time, what makes the most sense in this movie is what the survivors have before and after attending the school — their families and the happy memories surrounding them.

Unlike the other characters in the story, Aline seems to realize something at the end. As a survivor, she continues to fight for herself and her people. What helps her to continue to fight is the preserved, beautiful memories she has — her family dancing and celebrating their heritage, the time she first met her husband, her pregnancy with her kids, and so on.

This movie is not disjointed after all those non-linear plots of Aline and the

other characters. Instead, the non-linear plots help the characters’ actions be more understandable and empathetic. The performances of each cast are also impressive, as it feels very much authentic.

From the astounding shots of landscapes in Canada to the claustrophobic, dark shots of residential schools, the film's themes are easily shown.

I personally give this film a score of 4 out of 5. The only flaw is the scene where the director somehow tried to humanize the nun's actions. It could be a character development for her or to show that humanity isn't dead. But from this movie and its point of view, the religious officials' actions should never be justified or humanized. However, it can definitely be debatable for some viewers.

Bones of Crows is a challenging yet powerful film that shows the truth of what many Indigenous children experienced.

The black crows play an essential role in the movie. Crows are shown in different scenes throughout the film, but at the end, a dove takes over in the part where Aline tells her story. It may be a hint that a dove is the start of something. But this scene proves that fear exists within survivors, but love, hope, new beginnings, and resiliency are much stronger.

A mini-series expansion will be coming out later this year on CBC, so check it out.

People who are interested can watch Bones of Crows here: https://youtu. be/-VubqcqojVw?feature=shared

Photo by Getty Images of the movie.

fund of $145K

Five local projects have received a monetary boost of $145,000 through the government of Canada’s Community Services (COVID) Recovery Funds.

The announcement was made on Aug. 17 by the Columbia Valley Community Foundation that heralded the following projects:

• The Columbia Valley Greenways Trail Alliance received $14,000 to create and execute a new donor engagement program and fundraising strategy.

• The Columbia Basin Environmental Education Network received $29,000 to support the development of a remote learning platform about local environmental

Issue mitigated

A report on the management of stormwater discharge in the District of Invermere is good news for Lake Windermere.

An engineer from Urban Systems Ltd. recently presented council with an update on the stormwater impact on the lake and what has been done to mitigate that.

In her report, Sara Anderson noted that stormwater runoff from the downtown business core used to be collected and discharged directly into the lake. Subsequently, the district expressed concerns about a visible “greyish” plume over the ice. It also expressed concern about ditch erosion on 13th Street, south of the arena.

The district wanted to mitigate these issues and retained Urban Systems to prepare a study on the 13th Street drainage system and recommendations on how to address the stormwater discharge into the lake. It was believed that the greyish plume consisted mostly of gravel collected by the stormwater system.

One of the recommendations was the installation of an oil/grit separator near the intersection of 14th Street and 4th Avenue. This separator would remove sediment, debris sands and hydrocarbons prior to the discharge into the lake.

In 2022 the installation of the separator was completed as part of downtown improvements.

As a point of interest, Anderson noted that other entities are contributing to stormwater discharge into the lake, including adjacent private properties and CP Rail.

topics.

• The Shuswap Band received $44,000 to support accounting upgrades.

• Columbia Valley Search and Rescue Society received $18,000 to purchase IT equipment that will aid member training and terrain familiarization.

• Family Dynamix Association received $40,000 to update organizational policies and procedures to reflect evolving challenges.

Since the early phases of the COVID-19 pandemic, community organizations have struggled with increased

demand for their services, reduced revenues, and declines in charitable giving due to the rising cost of living.

Jenna Sudds, minister of Families, Children and Social Development, said these organizations are the “heart” of communities like the Columbia Valley that create a sense of belonging. She noted that the recovery fund will enable these groups to adapt and modernize their programs and services.

“Together we can rebuild from the isolation of the COVID-19 pandemic and build a more just and equitable future for those in the Columbia Valley.”

Columbia Valley Pioneer Staff

Columbia Valley Pioneer Staff

OUTOFOFFICE… TakeYourBusinessElectric

Intheever-evolvinglandscapeofbusinesssustainability,thetransitionfromgas vehiclestoelectriconesisgainingtractionasagame-changingmove.Beyond theenvironmentaladvantages,thisshiftholdssubstantialbenefitsforbusinesses, rangingfromcostsavingstoenhancedbrandreputation.

Oneofthemostsignificantbenefitsforbusinessesthatswaptheirgasvehiclesto electricisthesubstantialcostsavingsoverthelongterm.Electricvehicles(EVs) haveloweroperationalcostsduetotheirmoreefficientpowertrainsandreduced maintenancerequirements.Theabsenceofcomplexenginecomponentsand theuseofregenerativebrakingresultinfewerwear-and-tearissues,translating intoreducedmaintenanceandrepairexpenses.Furthermore,EVsbenefitfrom significantlylowerfuelcostscomparedtotheirgascounterparts,especiallyas electricitypricesremainrelativelystable.

However,thetransitiontoelectricvehiclesdoesrequireaninitialinvestment.Thisis wheregovernmentrebatesplayacrucialrole.Theserebatescanoffsetaportionof theupfrontcostsofpurchasingelectricvehiclesorinstallingcharginginfrastructure. Withrobustfederalandprovincialgovernmentrebatessweeteningthedeal,the economiccaseforsuchaswitchbecomesevenmorecompelling.

“EV’saresuper-efficient.Theydon’tidleandtheyuseregenerativebrakingwhich

actuallymakeselectricitywhenslowingdownorgoingdownhill.Electricenergy makesalotofsenseinBCwheremostofourelectricitycomesfromhydro.”Says StephanieVandeKemp,Co-ownerofCleanlineAutomotiveinInvermere.“We madeadecisiontobecomeanEVCertifiedShopin2019becausewewereexcited aboutzero-emissionvehicle(ZEV)technology.”

Federalandprovincialrebatesareavailableonbothpassengerandcommercial vehicles.Dependingonthevehicletheymaybeeligibleforbothrebatesandthe amountcanaddupto$9,000.Forexample,theSubaruSolterrawithandMSRPof $54,295iseligibleforaprovincialrebateof$4,000andafederalrebateofupto $5000.Tosearchthroughalleligiblevehicles,visit www.goelectricbc.gov.bc.ca

Theadvantagesoftransitioningfromgastoelectricvehiclesextendfarbeyond environmentalconsiderations.Costsavingsthroughreducedoperationalexpenses andmaintenance,combinedwithgovernmentrebates,createacompellingfinancial caseforbusinessestomaketheswitch.Additionally,thepositiveimpactonbrand reputationandalignmentwithsustainabilitygoalsfurthersolidifythebusiness case.Astheworldacceleratestowardsagreenerfuture,convertinggasvehiclesto electricisn’tjustaresponsiblechoice—it’sastrategiconethatpositionsbusinesses attheforefrontofinnovationandlong-termsuccess.

Thursday,August24

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

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

•10:30am:EdgewaterStorytime EdgewaterCommunityHallPark.Free FamilyFun.

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

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

•2:00pm-3:00pm:Senior’sTea. InvermereLibrary.Joinusforacuppaanda chat!

•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,August25

»8:00pm-11:00pm:BastardsandtheBuzzards. ArrowheadBrewing. Six-pieceFolk/Funkband.$10cover.

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

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

•10:30am-11:30am:Pop-upStorytime. EdibleAcresFarm.Hostedby InvermereLibrary

•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,August26

»7:00pm-9:00pm:RyanLanglois. ArrowheadBrewing.Anthemic indelivery,LangloisreflectsanimpassionedSpringsteen-esqueleader. Tickets: https://www.eventbrite.com

»10:00pm-8:00pm.CreativeSeries:GinaSarro. EffusionArtGallery. Ginapaintsdreamyimpressionisticlandscapesthataddabeautiful serenitytoanyspace.

»11:00am-2:00pm.PaintingDemo:KaylaEykelboom. EffusionArt Gallery.Kaylawillbeatthegalleryfeaturingherbeautifulnewcollection oflandscapesandcreatingliveon-site.

•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,August27

»4:00pm-6:00pm:DannyandhisDisappointments. Arrowhead Brewing.DannyBellandHisDisappointmentsplayNorthernbcfolk/ country/punkwithinfectionscharm.

•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,August28

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

•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.CometryArcheryat LuxorCorrals.Call250-347-9048toregister.

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

Tuesday,August29

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

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

•2:00pm-3:00pm:NovelIdeaBookClub.InvermereLibrary.Joinusfor ourmonthlybookclub!DiscussingMarianneCronin'sTheOneHundredYears ofLenniandMargot.Allwelcome&Copiesavailableatthefrontdeskofthe library.

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

•m:Pickleball InvermereCurlingClub,SkillsandDrills.

Wednesday,August30

»6:30pm-8:00pm:LocalsLive. ConcertSummerSeries.PotholePark. ClannaMorna.

•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.

•2:15-2:45pm:CanalFlatsStorytime.CanalFlatsLionsPark.Withstories, songsandacraft!Drop-in,allwelcome(gearedtowardsages2-5butanyone whowantstolistentostoriescanjoin!).

•3:00pm-4:15pm:JourneyThroughTime SummerReadingClub.Canal FlatsLionsPark.Ages5-12.RegisteratInvermere.bc.libraries.coop

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

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

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

•6:00-7:00pm:Writeon! Writer’sGroup.InvermereLibrary.Emailusat publiclibrary@invermere.nettogetonourWriteOn!List.Alllevelsofwriting welcometojoinustobuildskill,shareworkandreceivefeedback.Meetingat thelibraryandonZoom.

•6:30pm:IndoorPickleball InvermereCurlingClub,LadiesNight.

Billboards to honour missing/murdered

By Julia Magsombol Local Journalism Initiative julia@columbiavalleypioneer.com

New billboards have been installed along the “Highway of Tears” to honour Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls (MMIWG).

On Tuesday, Aug. 15, four billboards were unveiled by Carrier Sekani Family Services (CSFS) and the Highway of Tears governing body. The partnership of both organizations resulted in the creation of the billboards.

Mary Teegee, the CSFS executive director of Child and Family Services, said the governing body of Highway of Tears comprises the victims' families, and was established in 2006. She noted there was a report consisting of 33 recommendations, one of which was to erect the billboards.

These billboards are for the Indigenous girls and women who died and for them to be honoured and remembered. The route has been called Highway of Tears as more than 40 women and girls, mostly Indigenous, have gone missing and murdered since 1969.

The words on the billboards include, "We are hope. We are strength. Keep Highway 16 safe."

This message of hope and strength provides more awareness and safety along the highway.

"There will be two (billboards) at one end of the highway and two at the other end of the highway, and this is to commemorate the missing and murdered wom-

en and to really raise awareness and actually keep awareness going," said Teegee. "It's been quite a few years to get to this place, so we've had a lot of time to think about these billboards," she added.

If you are interested in reading more about the Highway of Tears, visit: https://www.thecanadianencyclopedia.ca/en/article/highway-of-tears

For years, there were billboards on the highway, but the old signs are much different than the new ones. The old signs were much like warning signs that said, "Girls don't hitchhike, killers on the loose," with the images of the victims. The new billboards are not a warning sign anymore but a message of hope and resilience in Indigenous communities.

"We hope these billboards act as a visual reminder to travellers to be part of keeping Highway 16 safe for everyone," Teegee said.

Julie Daum, executive director of justice at Carrier Sekani Family Services, said,” We want to switch the message and the narrative that has been going on about this place of despair and loss and pain. We want to acknowledge that this is our home. This is a beautiful territory, and we all deserve to be safe and protected.”

Teegee added, "You must remember your past and never repeat the same mistake, so we need to always keep it at the forefront of people's minds.”

They also added that being able to change the name of Highway of Tears to Highway of Hope will be a key step forward to making this roadway full of hope.

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.

KarenCoté DirectorofFinance

Four members of Invermere Fire Rescue have answered the call for help in the McDougall Creek wildfire that has destroyed many homes in West Kelowna. Captain Erik McLaughin, Capt. Janice Dallaire, and firefighters Brendan Garies and Nick Melnyk have deployed with an engine to assist many other departments in the fight. Meanwhile, the remaining members in Invermere have stepped up to ensure full coverage at home. According to the department, it can spare this resource without jeopardizing regular duties and protection.“We’re extremely proud and appreciative of the sacrifice this crew is making, to drop everything on a moment’s notice to help our fellow British Columbians in this devastating time of need,” the department says on its Facebook page.

FallSpecialsatWinderberry forallourSpecialCustomers

20%OFFTrees,Shrubs,Evergreens(few exceptions)andPerennials

30%OFFTropicals,Cactus’sandHousePlants

25%-50%assorteddecorativepots,including ourentireterracottaselection.

New billboards reflect hope and resilience on the Highway of Tears.

Bottom photo by Getty Images

Photo by Invermere Fire Rescue

OURHARDWORKINGFARMTEAM. DELICIOUSFARMFRESHANDFROZENMEALSAT THECAFE.PATIO&INDOORGREENHOUSESEATING.

DISTRIC T OF INVERMERE DISTRICTOFINVERMERE

PERMISSIVEPROPERTYTAX EXEMPTIONFOR2024

August 9 special day for Indigenous Peoples

By Julia Magsombol Local Journalism Initiative julia@columbiavalleypioneer.com

On August 9 we celebrated the International Day of the World's Indigenous Peoples, an opportunity to raise awareness and protect all the rights of Indigenous individuals.

Based on the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO), Indigenous Peoples live and occupy 22 per cent of their global land area. At least 370-500 million Indigenous Peoples represent cultural diversity.

There are 70 Indigenous languages being spoken in Canada. Some languages are still growing. Indigenous languages in Canada, such as Haisla, Halkomelem, Heiltsuk and Michif, have increased by a third (33.3 per cent) or more since 2016.

Despite their rich and diverse cultures, Indigenous Peoples face problems regarding the protection of their rights as distinct people. Many continue to be confronted with marginalization, poverty, homelessness, and other human rights violations. They face systemic issues, including racism and discrimination as well.

Through the resolution and general assembly in December 1994, the United Nations General Assembly decided that August 9 must be dedicated to observing the International Day of the World's Indigenous Peoples. The general assembly contains recognizing, recalling, and reaffirming their rights.

If you are interested in reading more about the general assembly, visit https:// documents-dds-ny.un.org/doc/UNDOC/ GEN/N95/767/05/PDF/N9576705.pdf?OpenElement

It marks the day of the first meeting in the year of 1982 of the UN Working Group on Indigenous Populations. Every

summer, UNESCO marks this day as a celebration for many Indigenous Peoples. They share information about the projects and activities relevant to the annual theme.

"Marked every year on August 9, the International Day of the World's Indigenous Peoples is an opportunity to celebrate these communities and their knowledge," said Audrey Azoulay, the Director-General of UNESCO. "That is why UNESCO is committed to the preservation of Indigenous cultures. Today, we celebrate the International Day of the World's Indigenous Peoples, as we do every year, to symbolize our commitment to them, which lies at the heart of our mandate.”

Communities can do many things on this day and for the remaining days of August.

• Read different Indigenous stories.

• Listen to podcasts of Indigenous leaders.

• Join events.

• See how different disasters such as COVID-19 is affecting different communities and search for ways to help.

• Support local Indigenous artists and businesses.

• Visit the UN's International Day of the World's Indigenous Peoples website.

• Donate to many Indigenous-led solutions organizations at https://www. ellecanada.com/culture/society/11-indigenous-organizations-to-support

"We must empower young people to take their rightful place in our institutions so that together we can meet the challenges of the 21st century," said Azoulay.

With this, we can help Indigenous Peoples to the path of healing and reconciliation.

Visit UNESCO's information website at https://www.unesco.org/en/international-day-worlds-indigenous-peoples

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.

August 9 marked the Day of the World’s Indigenous Peoples.

Photo by Getty Images

Another alert lifted in Yearling Creek fire

More good news in the Horsethief Creek wildifire complex - the evacuation alert in the vicinity of the Yearling Creek fire has been rescinded due to the progress made by the BC Wildfre Service.

The alerts covered six private dwellings, Nipika Mountain Resort, the Cross River Education and Retreat Centre, and Horseshoe Rapids Recreation site.

“As this is an immensely popular area for recreation, we want to remind the public that although the evacuation alert has been rescinded, there are still active fires within the vicinity and crews continue to work on the Yearling Creek fire specifically,” said Information Officer Loree Duczek.

Recreationalists are urged to check bcwildfire.ca before heading out into any backcountry areas to ensure they are choosing locations away from active fires and are aware of all area restrictions and their associated boundaries.

“While it is immensely encouraging to see these

alerts being lifted, we cannot afford to have a false sense of security. Conditions remain extremely dry and in spite of the potential for rain this week, all residents of East Kootenay need to remain diligent, aware and prepared,” added Duczek. “We need to be responsible in choosing when and where we recreate. If you are planning to go into any area with an active fire, we are encouraging you to choose a different destination at this time even if there is no area restriction in effect. If there is an area restriction in effect, respect it. Period.”

The alert rescind along with the corresponding map can be found on the evacuations and alerts page under Emergency Information on www.rdek.bc.ca. Although the alert has been lifted, the BC Wildfire Service continues to action the fire and it will remain an active work site.

There are currently nine area restrictions in place around fires within the East Kootenay, which essentially means those areas are closed to public access. To view the map of the area restrictions or get the latest updates on the fires, visit www.bcwildfire.ca.

NoticeofIntent

RockyMountainDistrictRoadClosure

Noticeisgiven,pursuanttoSection60(2)ofthe TransportationAct,thatthe MinistryofTransportationandInfrastructurehasreceivedanapplicationto permanentlyclosetheunconstructedright-of-wayofStoddartBoulevardin Windermere,B.C.

Theunconstructedright-of-waytobeclosedisadjacenttoproperties locatedatLots2through9,DistrictLot20,KootenayDistrictPlanNEP2125. TheclosedroadwillbevestedpursuanttoSection60(2)ofthe TransportationAct

Local wins ‘Alone’

Outdoor education teacher Alan Tenta is no longer “Alone.”

The 52-year-old staff member from David Thompson Secondary School won the 10th season of the History Channel’s popular reality TV show.

Tenta lasted 66 days in remote Saskatchewan to be crowned the winner in the finale that came down to three participants from a total of 10 that competed for the $500,000 prize.

Tenta lasted two days longer than the

runner-up and nearly gave up at one point because he was physically and mentally exhausted trying to live off the land on his own.

In a news release, Tenta expressed how grateful he was to his family, friends and students for all their support.

He attributed the win to being prepared since he spends a lot of time outdoors getting to know plants and animals.

Stayed tuned for a follow-up feature where the Pioneer finds out how he survived on the show.

Anyonesupportingorobjectingtothisroadclosureshouldsubmit writtencommentstotheministry’sRockyMountainDistrictoffice at12910thAvenueSouth,Cranbrook,B.C.,V1C2N1,orbyemailto rmddevapp@gov.bc.canolaterthanAugust31,2023.

Formoreinformationoracopyoftheplan, pleasecontactRockyMountainDistrictDevelopmentServices at250420-6550 oratrmddevapp@gov.bc.ca

Columbia Valley Pioneer Staff

David Thompson Secondary School outdoor education teacher Alan Tenta has won season 10 of the History Channel’s survival reality television show ‘Alone.’

(Image courtesy of Brendan George Ko / The HISTORY Channel)

Columbia Valley Pioneer Staff

The evacuation alert for the Yearling Creek wildfire has been rescinded. Photo by BCWS

Crews keep airport busy

By Lyonel Doherty lyonel@aberdeenpublishing.com

As predicted, wildfires have kept the Columbia Valley Airport in Fairmont very busy these past few days.

“It’s probably the busiest time we’ve had in the last four years,” said operations manager Tex Deagnon over the din of aircraft noise last week.

The airport’s dedicated group of volunteers have been accommodating many aircraft in the Horsethief Creek complex since July 24. Planes and helicopters have been using the airport to refuel and conduct maintenance and repairs.

Deagnon estimated the airport does between 12 and 20 refuellings per day, adding that 25 to 30 trips are made out of the site daily by crews fighting the fires.

He pointed out they had to turn away other aircraft because there was no room for them to park. That’s how busy it was.

Deagnon said that wildfires are very unpredictable, recalling that it felt like

“all hell broke loose” on July 24 when the Horsethief Creek fire started. In talking to some BC forestry personnel a few days ago, it was believed that the fire would soon be under control, but those hopes faded when fire activity picked up and 926 properties in the Panorama area were issued an evacuation alert.

Deagnon said he has observed how hard fire crews are working. “They’re fully devoted to getting this fire under control,” he stated, despite the fact some personnel are showing fatigue.

Andrea Tubbs, secretary of the Columbia Valley Airport Society, said it would be much more cumbersome and makeshift for the BC Wildfire Service if the Fairmont airport didnt exist.

Airport volunteer Dennis Herman said what is amazing is seeing nearby residents bringing treats, lunches, and dinner to pilots and their engineers who really have no other opportunity to eat with their busy schedule.

Wildfire crews have kept the Columbia Valley airport in Fairmont hopping during the Horsethief Creek complex fires. Aircraft have used the airport for fuelling and maintenance purposes with the help of volunteers. Crews are very thankful to local residents who have been bringing food for them during their busy schedules.

Photos courtesy of Columbia Valley Airport

By Mike and Christine Dubois

A few years ago, you may recall seeing a photo of a boat washed up on the east shore of Lake Windermere during a north storm. We don’t know all of the particulars of the incident but our guess is that the boat was travelling north (against the storm wind) and the waves were crashing over the front of the boat, swamping it. The bilge couldn’t keep up and eventually the boat sank but luckily the driver was able to make it to the beach albeit his boat was full of water and getting thrashed against shore. It was a pretty sad situation but we believe this could have been avoided. Many amateur boaters don’t understand how boat chop and waves are best tolerated in a boat. Here are some tips to avoid what happened in that storm a few years back.

• Raise the bow - if you get caught in a storm and water is washing into your bow, power your boat just enough to get the bow up and move your passengers to the back of the boat. In previous articles, we spoke about not plowing when you are coming in and out of your dock, but in a storm or when meeting big waves, plowing is the best option to keep those waves out of your bow. In many newer V-drive boats there is a trim tab that can be raised to bring up the bow but all boats will plow as you begin to power them up. For those of us that have ski boats, this technique is essential when meeting a surf wave. That wave will swamp our ski boat every time at idle but by giving it a little power and getting the nose up, we can get through it dry.

How to manage waves, storms and boat chop

• Take the waves at 45 degrees. If you’ve ever hit a large wave head on at high speed you are likely a good customer at the chiropractor’s office. Instead, take large waves at a 45 (or less) degree angle – this will allow your boat to roll over the wave as opposed to “hit” it. If you parallel those waves, this will cause some very uncomfortable side to side rocking and we’ve heard stories of passengers being knocked out of the boat when getting rocked from the side. Anywhere from 15-45 degrees will alleviate a big smack.

• Slow down – When you see waves approaching, slow down, not to idle but just to a safe speed so you don’t take such a hard impact. This is especially important when towing. As you approach the wave give your rider the signal of waves approaching (stick your arm out to the side and make an up down motion.) This tells the rider they should get directly behind the boat in the white wash. Next, slow down slightly, then (if required) give your rider a right arm or a left arm, this will indicate that you are going to veer slightly to take the wave at 45 degrees. Once you are over the waves, get back to speed and continue on your original course.

• Alter your course - If the waves are hitting you head-on in a storm, alter your course 45 degrees to the wind direction, your boat will travel much smoother and you will notice that the spray off the water will be a little more tolerable than heading perfectly into or perpendicular to the storm.

• Take refuge - As soon as a storm hits, head for home as quickly as possible using the strategies above. Or, if that is not

possible because you are far from home, find a spot on the lake to take refuge. In a north storm wind, the best options are Baltac Bay or behind the Windermere island.

Story of the week

This is a good news story, different from the usual bad decisions and bad endings that we feature here. A big north storm hit the lake on July 30. It was late afternoon and many boats were caught in the big waves and fierce wind. In situations like this if you can get off the lake quickly and safely then that is a great option. However, if it is a long ride back or if it is going to be unsafe to try to park in your marina, there is a better option. On that particular afternoon, we watched

a very smart boater take shelter behind the island in Windermere and ride out the storm in calm water and no wind.

These north storms usually only last 30-45 minutes. This group hung out in the perfectly calm protected water then made their way home after the storm passed. Smart move! Many things can go wrong when trying to park or trailer your boat in big waves and strong wind. You could damage your boat or dock, or even worse, someone else’s.

During the next north wind storm, if you can’t make it home, lets make it a party and we can meet in either Baltac Bay or behind the Windermere Island, both of which are well protected from the north storms.

Tickets(AdultOnly)$65 • Wine&Beer:$6

Ticketsavailableonhospicesocietycv.comandattheHospiceOffice(778-526-5143)

The DuBois family from Windermere took home some hardware from the WSWBC (waterski wake sports BC) Wakesurf Provincials Aug. 19 at Kookanusa Village. Kaylee took Bronze in the Amateur 13-18 girls, Nash won Bronze in the Junior Boys 12 and under, and Christine won Silver in the Masters womens event.

Photos submitted

The Columbia Valley Airport in Fairmont has been like a second home to some fire crews of late.

Photos by Chris Moseley

READY MIX

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.

Cheers to Bruce M. for dropping off ice cream treats at the office. You are so thoughtful!

Cheers to Deb Fisher for holding an item for me. It totally slipped my mind and when I nally remembered 3 days later you were still holding it for me. Small town living- it’s awesome!

Cheers to Lisa Kraig for being a great person. You are kind and caring, always listen, with no judgement. You are the best!

Cheers to Lynn at Canadian Tire for helping me when I couldn’t walk waaay back to the north 40 for hockey tape. You were so kind. First rate customer service!

Cheers to the amazing CVAS volunteers running Fairmont Hot Springs Airport.

Cheers to the organizing committee for the good job on the Celebration of Life for Emily!

Cheers to Greg Mantyka of Wildlands Eco-Forestry! On August 2nd our son Jack broke his ankle while mountain biking at Lake Lillian. Greg was working nearby, and made a huge effort to get his truck into a difficult spot- but he did itand got Jack and bike out! Cheers!

CHEERS to Shawn Doherty and the organizers of the Canal Flats Fest. A wonderful weekend had by all. Good planning for the kids, and all the wonderful music

CHEERS to Michelle Cramton for organizing the Scooter Rodeo at the Columbia Garden Village. Planning and organizing takes a great amount of time and effort - and Michelle had worked on this event for two months!

Kudos to Michelle for a wonderful event!

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

Saturday August 26 8am-12 behind Tim Hortons @12 B Wolf Cres . China cabinet, kids tablet, kids table & chairs small appliances, Dr Ho’s massage chair, furniture, household, clothes, kids and baby stuff, plants

Garage Sale

Saturday August 26, Sunday August 27, 7a-4p

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

BUSINESS SERVICES

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

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.

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

Small Engine Repair

Part-Time SalesAssociate

TheInvermereThriftStoreexecutiveteamisseekingamotivatedindividualtoworkinourretailThrift Store.Thisfunandfast-pacedretailsalesenvironmentiswithinalargeandvibrantvolunteer organization.Thisisapart-timeposition,approximately24hours/week.

Dutiesinclude:workinginretailsalesincludingcashhandling,packingofmerchandiseandgeneral storeduties;attendingmonthlyteamrepresentativemeeting.

•Applicantsshouldbecomfortableinteractingwiththepublicandpeopleofallages.

•Previoussalesexperienceisanasset.

•Applicantswillberequiredtostandforextendedperiodsoftimeandtoliftandhandlemerchandise.

•MustbeavailableThursday,FridayandSaturday.

Pleasesendresumebyemail: ihcasAP@outlook.com orbyregularmail: InvermereThriftStore,IHCAS,POBox571,Invermere,BCV0A1K0

Attention:HumanResourceCommittee

Joinourteamandsupportyourlocalcommunitythriftstore

MINING APPRENTICESHIP PARTNERSHIP (MAP)

Currentpositions available

•HeavyDuty Equipment

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

APARTMENTS/CONDOS

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 $309,000 + GST For more information contact Elkhorn Ranches 250-342-1268 www.elkhornranches.com

Large 5 bedroom home in Fairmont. $2500/month

Smokers need not apply. Clean responsible renters required.

Available September 1 Call Garry 250-341-7304

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

BrainardCustomContractingisgrowing again,righthereintheColumbiaValley!

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

WhatwehavetoofferYOU:

» Topwagesinthevalley

» Monday-Friday,noweekends

» Flexiblescheduletoassistwithpersonaland familyneeds

» Anemployerthatrespectsandvaluesyou!

Akiskinook

Includes

$1200/month 403-281-3991

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

WhatyouneedtoofferUS:

» Mustbereliableandrespecthardwork

» Mustwanttobepartofateamandhavea greatattitude

» Musthaveownvehicleforworkwithinthe ColumbiaValley

Pleaseemaillistofqualificationsto: BrainardCustom@gmail.com

Welookforwardtoworkingwithyou!

Please

BriscoWoodPreserversLtd.,isamajorCanadianPoleProducerofCCAtreated woodpoles,supplingWesternutilitiesandcommunicationscompanies. OurmaintreatingfacilityislocatedinBriscoBC,justnorthofRadiumHot SpringsinthebeautifulColumbiaValley.BriscoWoodPreservers’second treatingfacilityislocatedinPeers,Alberta.WealsoCustomTreatavarietyof woodproductsincludingPosts&Rails,PlywoodandLumber.

PositionOverview:

WearecurrentlyrecruitingforanOfficeAdminAssistanttobelocatedat ourmainofficeinBrisco,BC.Asamemberofourteamyouwillprovidedata entry,inventorycontrolandothersupportservicesforaveryfastpaced office.

KeyResponsibilities:

•PerformfullscopeofDataentry,inventorycontrol,answeringphones, somereception,inventoryreporting.

•Filing–maintainorganizedfilesforallpaperworkthathavebeen processed.

•Assistandprovidebackupsupporttootherofficestaffasrequired.

•Ad-hocdutiesasassigned.

Qualifications:

Thesuccessfulcandidatewillbringthefollowingexperienceandexpertise:

•Minimum5years’experienceindataentryorotherrelateddutieswith midtolargesizecompany.

•GoodworkingknowledgeofMSOfficeapplications(Outlook,Excel, Word,andPowerPoint).

•Stronganalyticalskillsandaloveofnumbers.

•Excellentattentiontodetailanddataentryskills.

•Abilitytoprioritiseworkfortimesensitivedeadlines.

•Technicaladministrativeorbusinesstrainingand/orrelatedexperience isanasset.

•PreviousexperienceinForestryproductsadefiniteasset.

Thisisafull-timepositionwhichoffersaverycompetitivewageand comprehensivebenefitpackage.

Wewishtothankallapplicantsfortheirinterest,however,onlythose selectedforinterviewswillbecontacted.

HowtoApply:

PleaseaddresscoverletterandresumetoElkePetersenande-mailPDFfile to: epetersen@briscowood.com orfaxto 250-346-3218. Deadlineforapplicationis5:00pm(MST)ThursdayAugust31st,2023.

TheColumbiaValleyPioneer islookingforafull-time PrintandDigital Reporter/Photographer forournewsoperationbasedin Invermere.Weoperateadailynewssiteandaweeklyprint publication.

Thesuccessfulcandidateworkswellinateamsetting,butisself motivated.Youwillberesponsibletowritemultiplenewsstoriesevery weekforprintandon-linepublication,takephotographstoaccompany stories,attendcommunityeventsandlayoutpages(allwhilerespecting SocialDistancingrequirements).

Qualifications

•Journalismeducation:degree,diplomaorcertificate;orequivalent workexperience.

•Validdriver’slicenseandreliablevehicle.

•Positiveattitude,mustbeorganizedandabletoworkboth independentlyandinateamsetting.

•ExperienceinInDesign,Photoshop,andpostingtosocialmedia. Thecompanyofferscompetitivebenefitandpensionplans.

Interestedcandidatesshouldforwardtheirresumeto AmandaNason,AssociatePublisher/SalesManager: advertising@columbiavalleypioneer.com

Applicationsareopenuntilthepositionisfilled andisbasedinourofficeat 8–1008,8thAveInvermere,B.C.

Director urges public cooperation

Columbia Valley Pioneer Staff

An RDEK director is urging the public to cooperate with “area restrictions” in the Horsethief Creek wildfire complex.

As the last active Evacuation Alert in the Columbia Valley has been lifted, Area F director Susan Clovechok is praising the wildfire response and urging the public to continue to be aware of ongoing area restrictions around the valley and beyond.

“I am profoundly grateful to everyone who has been actively engaged in responding to the wildfires in our region. To all the BCWS personnel, frontline firefighters, the support crews and countless others who have worked day and night to protect homes, businesses and keep our communities safe, thank you,” Clovechok said.

She also acknowledged the tremendous efforts put forth at the community level over the past four weeks.

“From businesses stepping up to do whatever is needed, to volunteers operating the airports or people opening their homes and hearts by offering support to friends and neighbours, our valley has ris-

en up together and it has been wonderful to see this incredible community response during such a difficult time for so many.”

While there has been progress on the fire front, Clovechok is urging residents to continue to be aware and responsible with their recreation.

“We still have a number of active fires and extremely dry conditions. This cooler reprieve in the weather will be short lived and we need to ensure we are exercising diligence and personal responsibility when we are out recreating and using the backcountry,” the directed added.

“Please respect all area restrictions. Take time to ensure you are aware of the local closures and current conditions where you are heading, even if it’s just for a short day trip or bike ride.”

The RDEK is asking all recreationalists and backcountry users to choose an alternate destination if their plans have them visiting an area near an active wildfire. People are encouraged to visit www. bcwildfire.ca prior to heading out to check both the wildfire map and the bans and restrictions page.

AdministrativeAssistant

Reporter/Photographer

NEWSPAPER

RobertRobertson September5,1939-August2,2023

ItiswithsadnessthatthefamilyofRobertRobertsonannouncehispassingon Wednesday,August2,2023attheageof83.Robpassedawaypeacefullyathomein FairmontHotSpringswithhisfamilybyhisside.

BorninGreenStreetGreen,England,Sept.5,1939,hewasthesonofthelateIvy (Robertson)BlakeneyandWarrantEngineerRobertRobertson,whoservedon theHMSOxley.HewasalsothesontothelateCapt.FrederickE.Blakeney(Dad), formerRSM,SecondBattalionBlackWatch.

RobwaseducatedinGreatBritainandWolfvilleNSbeforeenlistingintheRoyal CanadianNavyatage16,workingthroughtheranksandeventuallytakinghis commission.Roblovedhistimeservinghiscountry.OriginallyintheNavy,Robwas stationedinShearwaterNS,whereheflewoffoftheaircraftcarriertheBonaventure inTrackers.RobthentransferredtotheAirforceandbecameanavigatorsohecould tellpilotswheretogo.

Heendedhismilitarycareerwiththe435AirSquadron,outofEdmonton,where hespentmanyyearscircumnavigatingtheglobeinhisbelovedHerculesAircraft. Robaccumulated10,000flyinghours,ararityinaviationandatestamenttohislove flying.Robretiredin1987.

AfterleavingtheArmedForces,Robjoinedhiswife,Sylvia,inthefamily’srealestate businessandbothretiredin1996movingtoFairmontHotSprings,BC.

Forover25yearsRobandSylvialivedontheColumbiaRiverwithaspectacular viewofthemountains.Duringthistime,hebecamepassionateaboutgrowing Dahliasandsoonbecameknownasthe“Dahliaman”intheneighborhood.His displayofflowerswasoutstandingandagreatsourceofpride.Helovedhislifeand enjoyedmanyyearsoffishing,golf,travel,andplentyoffun-filledoccasions(usually involvingfood)withSylvia,familyandfriends.

Besideshislovingwife,Sylvia,FairmontHotSprings,BC,heisalsosurvivedbyhis sonIan,Ian’spartner,SandyGonekwhosekindnessandfriendshipRobcherished; asisterPauline(Bissett)andbrother-in-law(Dr.RichardsBissett),MonctonNB, grandchildren,SamanthaLawless(AdamLawless),ZacharyLausen,andgreat grandsonLinconLawlessplusniecesKatherine(Leaman)andPatricia(Pelletier) andnephewPaulBissett.Heisalsosurvivedbybrothers-in-lawEarlandRobert Hiltz,niecesJenniferHiltzRogers&MoniqueHiltzaswellasseveralgreatnephews andnieces.HewillbemissedbyhisfamilyandmanyfriendsacrossCanadaand England.

Hewaspredeceasedbyhismother,father,Dad,brotherIanandsister,Sandra. ACelebrationofLifewillbeheldSeptember5th,2023at1:00pmatChristChurch Trinity,inInvermere,BC

Inlieuofflowers,thefamilywouldappreciatedonationstotheCanadianCancer Society.Rob’swishwastoberememberedwithasmileandastory.

JoyceAnnNixon

December21,1952-July31,2023

ThefamilyofJoyceAnnNixonissadtoannouncethatontheeveningofMonday, July31,2023,JoycepassedawayfromcardiacarrestattheKelownaGeneral Hospital.JoycewasbornonDecember21,1952attheoldPynelogshospitalin Invermere,B.C.toDaveandRubyNixon.ShegrewupjustoutsideofWilmerat thefamilyhomestead.

JoycehadworkedretailthroughoutthetownofInvermerebutwasgreatly rememberedmostlyfromtheGreatCanadianDollarStore.Shewasableto successfullymanageoneofthemostrenownedGreatCanadianDollarStores throughoutthecountryformanyyearsuntilsheretiredin2012.Herbrightsmile, generosityanduniquesenseofhumourmadeherstandoutandcreatedfond memoriesformany.Joyceadoredandspoiledhernieces,nephews,great-nieces andgreat-nephewswhenevershecould.Shewouldalwaysenjoygoingtotownand chattingwitholdcustomersandfriends.

Joyceissurvivedbyherthreesiblings;AudreyBearhamandherdaughterElizabeth (Kevin);RayNixonandhischildrenJarrettandJessica(Levi)andtheirmother CynthiaAppleby;andPamNielsenandherchildrenJustin(Charity),Nissa (Murray)andWhitney(Stacy).Shealsoleavesbehindhergreat-niecesandgreatnephewsDeclan,Hadley,Shawn,Krista,Grace,Isabelle,Gabryle,Brooklynneand Morrison.JoycewaspredeceasedbyherparentsDaveandRubyNixonofWilmer, brothers-in-lawHarryBearhamandLarryNielsen,nephewJerryMiles,nieceCola Marie,andmanyauntsanduncles.

TherewillbeafamilygravesideserviceheldatMountViewCemeteryinInvermere atalaterdate,asperherwishes.

June9,1937-August7,2023

LongtimevalleyresidentandaccountantRogerSmith passedawayonAugust7,2023,attheageof86.Despite his10-yearbattlewithdementia,hewassmilingand laughing(andcrackingjokesthebesthecould)tothe end.

BorninMelvilleSKandraisedinWatrous,uponhigh schoolgraduationRogerattendedtheUniversityof SaskatchewanandarticledinCalgarybeforemoving toInvermereintheearly1960’swherehemethiswife, Dorothy(Dot).

Rogerwaswell-knowninthecommunity.Heplayed old-timershockeyandwasaregularatmen’snightat thegolfcourse.HealsowasactiveintheRotaryClub andenjoyedspendinghisFridayeveningsattheLegion hopingtowinthemeatdraw.

Rogerissurvivedbyhistwosons,Graeme(Nancy)and Doug(Mercy),andtwograndchildren,GradyandEmma.

Interior Health gives air quality guidance

Columbia Valley Pioneer Staff Communities across the Interior Health region are experiencing heavy impacts from wildfire smoke.

People with chronic conditions, such as asthma, heart disease, or diabetes, as well as pregnant women, infants, and young children, are most affected by wild-

fire smoke.

The best way to protect your health from wildfire smoke is to reduce your exposure to smoke and seek cleaner air.

During smoky conditions, stay indoors and reduce time spent outside to protect your health. Reduce outdoor physical activity and refer to the Air Qual-

ity Health Index and decrease physical exertion when air quality is poor. Consider wearing a well fitted respirator if you cannot access cleaner air. Use a well fitted respirator (e.g., N95, KN95) to reduce exposure to particulate matter in smoke. Activate medical management plans and ensure your plan to self-manage any chronic

diseases (e.g., respiratory and cardiovascular diseases) is in place and up-to-date, and that adequate rescue medications are available

Use a home clean air shelter. Spend time in a room in your home with a portable air cleaner with HEPA filtration to reduce smoke exposure.

RogerSmith

GENERALLABOURER

BaymagInc.,anindustrialmineralcompanyspecializingintheproductionandinternational marketingofMagnesiumOxide,isacceptingapplicationsfora GeneralLabourer forouropen pitminelocatednearRadiumHotSprings,BC.

•TheLabourerpositionisanentry-levelpositioninanopenpitminingenvironment,withpotentialfor advancement.

•Validdriver’slicenseandabilitytooperateprocessandmobileequipmentinasafemannerisarequirement.

•Mustbeabletomeetthephysicaldemandsofthejobatalltimes.

•Mustbeaself-starterwithagoodemploymentrecordandabletoworkshiftworkwithminimalsupervision.

•Musthaveahighschooldiploma.

•MustbeabletocommutetoRadiumHotSprings

•Workexperienceinanopenpitminingfacilityisadefiniteasset.

•Startingrate$34.77perhour

•BenefitsincludeDentalcare,ExtendedHealthcare,Visioncare,RRSPmatch •8&10hourdayshifts,weekendavailability

Webelievethatourpeopleareattheheartofourcompanyandthekeytoourfuturesuccess.We’re growingandarealwaysonthelookoutforpassionatepeopletojoinahard-workingteam,makea differenceandenjoyahealthywork/lifebalance.

EnvironmentalResponsibility

Webelieveinminimizingourimpactontheenvironmentandwe’reinbusinesstohelpourcustomers dothesame.

CommittedtoSafety

Weadheretothehighestequipmentandsafetystandardsandworkhardtomaintainourpositivesafety culture

Stability

Wehavebeeninoperationsince1982andgrowingeveryyear.YoucanresteasyknowingthatBaymag willbeinbusinessyearafteryear.

Pleasesendresumesto jobs@baymag.com

Baymagthanksallapplicantsfortheirinterest,howeveronlythose candidatesunderconsiderationwillbecontacted.

Doug Clovechok, MLA

Columbia River-Revelstoke

www.DougClovechok.ca

Can BC deliver the dream?

The enemy of truth is blind acceptance. It has become clear to me that the B.C. NDP government want you to blindly accept their word that the province and my constituents are doing better than ever. Well folks, that is just not true!

The truth is that there is a significant affordability crisis in this province that is affecting all of us. My staff and I speak daily with people sharing stories of losing hope. Seniors, families, business owners, and single people are trying as hard as they can, but so many are struggling emotionally and financially.

The cost of housing in B.C. is the highest in Canada. Gas prices are through the roof, the cost of groceries continue to escalate, seniors and people on fixed incomes have never been in worse shape.

Housing supply is in crisis and there are simply not enough places to live. Renters can’t find a roof to put over their heads. Educated professionals are living in their vehicles.

On the health care front, wait times to see specialists have never been longer. One in five British Columbians do not have a family doctor. There aren’t enough treatment centres for mental health and addiction. My constituents still are not being allowed to go see Alberta doctors despite my efforts to get our health minister to do something about this.

Everywhere you look there are help wanted signs, with no workers to fill the jobs. Business owners are exhausted.

What happened to $10 a day childcare for everyone? Centres constantly tell me that there are just not enough childcare workers.

Crime is on the rise and people aren’t feeling safe.

The B.C. NDP are overspending by billions of dollars every year and delivering troubling results. It took 145 years for B.C. to accumulate $44 billion in debt. In just seven years the NDP has doubled that debt.

In 2017 and again in 2020, the NDP promised a better life for British Columbians.

They promised 114,000 new housing units would be built in 10 years. It’s been seven years and the NDP has built less than 20 per cent.

They promised an annual $400 renter’s rebate. Seven years later, renters have not yet received a dime.

They promised faster access to mental health services, when and where people need it. There are no new resources in our riding.

This all sounds horribly negative, but as a member of the opposition it is my duty to challenge the government on their policies and the shortcomings of their policies. It is my duty to advocate for the well-being of the people who hired me. Until you have the truth, blind acceptance of policy from a faltering government becomes the new reality.

There is hope for our amazing province, but it will take leadership with bold and most importantly, accountable vision and policies. Ask yourself this question:

“Am I better off than I was seven years ago?” I know you deserve a better B.C.

I want to hear from you about any concerns you have about this or any other issue. I read every email I receive. Please reach out to me at doug.clovechok.mla@leg.bc.ca or call my office in Kimberley at (250) 432-2300 or Revelstoke at (250) 805-0323.

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

Night waterman John Pona from the Radium golf course works diligently after hours to keep the greens well watered.

Photo by Linda Kodnar