Columbia Valley Pioneer - March 7, 2024

NEWS

Invermere child care taking baby steps

Columbia Valley Pioneer staff

Rocky Mountain School District No. 6 is continuing full steam ahead with its new child care projects in Invermere and Marysville.

Secretary treasurer Alan Rice gave the board an update on Feb. 13. He presented a report on the new space being built directly south of Invermere’s Eileen Madson Primary School, a project that was announced in May of 2023 with provincial funding of $8.6 million (and Columbia Basin Trust funding of $300,000).

Rice reported that MQN Architects have been awarded the design contract, adding that topographical and geotechnical surveys have been completed. He noted that the conceptual site plan has been completed and reviewed with the District of Invermere, and that the development permit application is being prepared.

Rice said the final proposed site plan is done, pointing out that the construction site slopes away from 15th Avenue, with the design team focusing on determining the facility’s elevation to minimize excavation. In addition, the landscape architect has created a conceptual plan for the outdoor play area.

It was also reported that a traffic

engineer is conducting an impact assessment, a requirement of the development permit.

Rice noted that the Marysville facility design will be used as a template for the Invermere facility.

Steve Wyer, assistant superintendent of schools, told the Pioneer it is hoped the project will go to tender in April. He noted the facility will have the capacity for 24 group child care spaces (for those under 36 months), 100 spaces (for 30 months to school age/preschool children), and 24 spaces (for school age children).

Wyer said the  construction timeline for the project is January 2025 for completion, however, this is subject to change. He pointed out it is important to note that once construction is completed, there will be an internal and external facility licensing process handled by Interior Health before the facility can operate. He added this four to six-week process falls outside of school district control. But once these inspections have been cleared, the building can open.

Wyer said the Windermere Valley Child Care Society will need time to go through the required licensing process with Interior Health and hire staff prior to beginning operations.

A groundbreaking ceremony was held last year to herald a new child care facility to be built at Eileen Madson Primary School. From left are Karen Shipka, district superintendent; Al Miller, mayor of Invermere; Sophie Timmermans, former chairperson of Windermere Valley Child Care Society; Don McCormick, board member of Columbia Basin Trust; and Amber Byklum, chairperson of Rocky Mountain School District No. 6. The

go out in April, and it is hoped construction will be completed in January of 2025.

RCMP REPORT

By Sgt. Ed deJong Columbia Valley RCMP

This past week, February 26 to March 4, the Columbia Valley RCMP responded to 68 calls for service. The following is a summary of some of the files our officers responded to:

Between March 1 and March 4 suspects broke into the Frito Lay warehouse on Laurier Street in Invermere. If anyone has information regarding this break and enter, please call the Invermere RCMP at 250-3429292 or Crimestoppers.

With the blast of winter weather over the weekend, the Columbia Valley RCMP responded to a number of motor vehicle collisions and stranded drivers both in Kootenay National Park and other areas around the Columbia Valley.

If you are travelling at this time of year, be sure to be prepared for all weather as conditions can change rapidly; especially through the mountain passes.

Always ensure you have a full tank of fuel, good winter tires, and bring winter clothing to keep warm in the event you are stranded for a period of time.

Slow down and move over

Columbia Valley Pioneer staff

BC Highway Patrol and Columbia Valley’s own RCMP commander are urging drivers to slow down and move over to protect roadside workers.

In less than three hours on February 27, BC Highway Patrol targeted almost 200 drivers for violating some or all of the ‘Slow Down, Move Over’ legislation on Highway 3/95. All of the drivers were issued a “warning” in the form of an educational pamphlet.

From 2008 to 2017, 230 workers were hit by motor vehicles and 12 of those workers passed away, according to BC Highway Patrol.

Last week the nearly 200 motorists could have received a $173 violation ticket (each) for failing to slow down and move over for roadside workers.

“The goal of the operation was to improve the safe-

ty of first responders, highway maintenance workers and tow operators,” said Inspector Chad Badry, officer in charge of Kootenay Highway Patrol. “We are asking drivers to ‘slow down and move over’ to make our highways safer for emergency responders and roadside workers.”

Columbia Valley RCMP Sgt. Ed deJong told the Pioneer that everyone who works on the roadside has a concern about this on busy highways.

“In my experience the issue has been mitigated with education, but there are still instances where drivers are not slowing down and moving over when they see flashing lights; whether it be for a police officer, road maintenance worker, ambulance, fire, or a tow truck operator,” deJong said.

“This poses a serious risk to those who are required to work roadside.”

VFC Raise the Roof event a smash success

By Steve Hubrecht  steve@columbiavalleypioneer.com

The Valley Fitness Centre (VFC) wants to raise the roof, quite literally, for its facility.

The nonprofit group and the fitness and health programs it runs are immensely popular in the Columbia Valley. As a result the VFC has been looking to expand for some time.

The group has, over the past few years, examined the possibility of creating a new facility, but that’s a very expensive and very difficult undertaking that would be many years in the works. So, in the meantime, the VFC is getting creative about the space it does have in its downtown 14th Street location, and plans to create a new weightlifting room above its current weightlifting venue, in space that once was an old squash court.

To raise the funds for this refit, the VFC recently held its Raise the Roof fundraiser. The event saw loquacious local resident Drew Bragg host his very own mock talk show (anyone who knows Bragg can attest that he is ridiculously well suited to this role), in which Bragg interviewed fellow Invermere resident and local celebrity Alan Tenta, as well as Tenta’s wife Lisa.

As many local residents recall, Tenta, an outdoor education teacher at David Thompson Secondary School (DTSS), achieved no small degree of fame within the Columbia Valley and beyond last summer when he starred on and won season 10 of the History Channel’s hit reality outdoor survival show ‘Alone.’

The Raise the Roof event was a huge success, reported VFC executive director Teresa Rogal.

“It was phenomenal,” she told the Pioneer. “Drew was supposed to interview Alan for one hour. But it went about two hours and the audience was so captivated you could’ve heard a pin drop.”

Rogal said she had watched Tenta on Alone, but hearing him describe his experiences made things so much more vivid. “I felt like Alan almost took us inside the show . . . it was inspiring,” she said.

The evening also featured entertainment — with East Kootenay musician Emma Kade playing — and food, with appetizers, desserts and drinks. The menu included three foods that Tenta craved while he was on Alone — Hawaiian pizza, sweet chilli heat Doritos, and peanut M&Ms.

The Raise the Roof event raised more than $26,000 for the VFC. The night was a sell-out, with more than 300 tickets sold.

The total cost of the renovations the VFC plans is roughly $350,000, and through various other efforts the group has already secured $130,000, leaving it more than one-third toward its goal.

“We are well on our way, we are hopeful we may even begin (the renovations) this fall,” Rogal told the Pioneer, adding the group already has engineering and planning in place, and is in the process of firming up a contractor.

To raise the remaining $220,000, the VFC is looking at grants and will take part in at least four other joint fundraising efforts with other nonprofit groups in the coming months.

“We’re going to be busy,” said Rogal.

The VFC has always been a nonprofit entity but also recently received registered charity status, and so can issue tax receipts for any donations.

“We have worked with DK on both sides of our purchase in Radium. She helped us purchase our condo unit and we immediately thought of her when it was time to sell. She is very efficient, professional, and trustworthy - as well as very approachable and enjoyable to work with. Whether you are looking to purchase and want someone who will narrow down the market to your requirements, or need someone to find the right buyer quickly, you’ll be hard-pressed to find a harder-working Realtor® in the valley!” -Stephanie Moan

Emma Kade plays guitar during the Raise the Roof fundraiser. At bottom left, Alan Tenta is interviewed on the Drew Bragg Show.

Dental care confusion

Editorial

Many years ago a mother took her young daughter to the dentist for a checkup. In utter fear, the little girl thought the doctor was going to hurt her with those shiny little tools on his tray.

So, when he approached her mouth, she gave him a swift kick.

The dentist immediately ordered the mother to take her unruly child out of his office, which she did in haste, never to return.

Today, that same mother still chuckles about the incident, particularly after receiving a letter from the federal government regarding the new Canadian Den tal Care Plan (CDCP), which is reportedly causing some confusion among many seniors.

According to the Ontario Dental Association (ODA), many patients will be in for a surprise when they find out this dental care may not be free (depend ing on their income).

Not all dentists will agree to participate in the new benefits plan, which could come with a lot of red tape. Therefore, people are encouraged to talk to their den tist about the plan and whether they support it.

Dr. Rob Wolanski, president of the BC Dental As sociation, admits the plan is an unprecedented oppor tunity to improve the health of Canadians, but it lacks clarity and collaboration.

As a result, he says dentists cannot make an in formed decision whether to participate or not, noting the plan won’t proceed if it is carried on the backs of oral health care providers.

Further to this, Dr. Brock Nicolucci, president of the ODA, says there is an unrealistic expectation that care will be free under the new program.

The mom with the unruly child, who is not so un ruly now, is waiting for a response from the govern ment on what the plan will cover.

On the Government of Canada website (canada. ca), it answers some questions about the plan, includ ing how to apply, what services are covered, and who is eligible.

For example, to qualify for the CDCP, you must not have access to dental insurance and must have a fam ily net income of less than $90,000.

If you have dental coverage through a government social program, you can still qualify for the CDCP.

The website notes that oral health providers’ par ticipation in the CDCP will be on a voluntary basis.

For more information, see https://www.canada.ca/en/services/benefits/ dental/dental-care-plan/coverage.html#wb-cont

Lyonel Doherty, editor

Leap year always makes this reader think

Leap year.

As this rolls around, it always makes me think about it.

Why is there a leap year? It has been said it takes Earth 365.2422 days to make the trip.

So what to do with those extra minutes it takes for the Earth to go around the sun?

To keep our method of time in check with the universe, it was decided to add the extra minutes into a day that will be counted every four years.

Babies born on February 29 are Pisces are “dreamers of the Zodiac, caring and sympathetic; you typically enjoy helping others and dislike confrontation.” On

the other hand, you have a hard time saying “no,” and are emotional and moody.

The chance of being born on February 29 is one in about 1,461.

Is it lucky? I think I’ll buy a bunch of lottery tickets this year!

I used to say when I was a kid, “well, I may not get a birthday every year but when I’m 40 I will really be only 10 years old.  My parents always made my birthdays special every year—a big celebration on February 29.

People always found it amusing and a bit confusing to figure out my real age. I used to get teased by

friends and co-workers and got age-appropriate gifts too. So, I was still receiving Barbie Dolls, colouring books and jewelry-making kits well into my 20s. It was fun and still is.

As I turn 68, I giggle at the idea of only having 17 “real” birthdays. It’s one way to stay young; you know the old saying … “you’re only as old as you feel.”

So, when February 29 rolls around, think of us as unique.

I wonder: how many babies will be born this leap year in 2024 and have a very special life ahead?

I have.

Linda Warner, Invermere

Be more respectful of girls and women

Continued from page 6

“Women’s agency is key; humanity is not male/female; sharing power demonstrates truly confident manhood; being able to live our full life means no artificial restrictions due to gender; motherhood shouldn’t be an obstacle for advancement in women’s careers; men play crucial roles in fostering inclusion of women and admonishing other men for abusive behaviour; the push/pull of patriarchy is still overarching; how do we inspire more conversation and less silence?”

In her article, “Intimate partner violence is not just a women’s issue”, journalist, author and human-rights activist Sally Armstrong points out that while the status of women has been altered dramatically – the number of students enrolled in law and medicine is now

gender equal – the number of women in this country suffering from IPV (intimate partner violence) remains a disgrace.

She thinks that it is well past time for men to act.

By championing inclusion, individuals, organizations and communities can harness the full potential of diverse perspectives, leading to better decision-making and innovation.

What if all men took a look at their respective workplace environments and home lives to see how they can be more inclusive of and respectful to women and girls that they are in regular contact with?

That would make a difference. That would be inspiring.

Carolyn Rogers, Invermere

Coaches get kudos

I am the athletic director at David Thompson Secondary School.

I'd like to highlight the excellent work our volunteer basketball coaches did this season at DTSS.

The athletics program is getting

stronger and stronger at our high school, and a big part of our success is our incredible volunteer coaches and leaders. Thanks for all you do coaches!

Matt LeBourdais, Invermere

Clarification

Columbia Valley Pioneer staff

The Pioneer would like to clarify two items in the February 29 issue that readers may have found misleading.

One was a page 19 story on proposed fire protection expansion in Edgewater and Panorama.

The RDEK merely gave three readings to the proposals, but final approval must come from the provincial govern-

ment before the expansions are officially adopted.

The second item was a photograph on page 23 that showed smoke coming from a burn pile at the Canal Flats transfer station.

The material that was burning was not refuse but wood waste that was part of routine operational burning in a controlled manner with proper venting and monitoring.

Travel Columbia Valley announces fund

By Steve Hubrecht  steve@columbiavalleypioneer.com

Travel Columbia Valley – the valley’s destination marketing organization (DMO) — has a new sponsorship fund that it hopes will help create more events here.

The fund totals $30,000 for its first year, and event organizers can apply for grants of up to $2,000 each. The money can be used for new events as well as for existing events that need support. It can be spent on marketing or on the actual logistics of putting on the event. The definition of event is fairly broad, and can include cultural festivals, sports competitions, art ex-

hibitions, outdoor events and more. Those who apply for funding can be event organizers, local businesses, community groups, and non-profit organizations.

"Travel Columbia Valley is always looking for new ways to encourage the growth and development of our community and the enrichment of the visitor experience," said Travel Columbia Valley executive director Jessica Fairhart. "Our new event sponsorship fund is a major step forward in this work. By supporting local events, we contribute to the regional economy and create elevated opportunities for residents and visitors to connect, celebrate, and make lasting memories in the heart of the Columbia Valley. It's a win-win for our community and for those who come to experience it."

Fairhart outlined that local events play an important role in boosting tourism and attracting new visitors to the valley, and they can showcase the natural beauty and culture of the Columbia Valley.

The money for the fund comes from Travel Columbia Valley’s operational funding, explained Fairhart.

When it comes to deciding which applicants will get the funding “our primary focus is on events that will attract visitors to the region. Priority will also be given to shoulder season events,” she told the Pioneer “You can think of it as seed money to start new events or to take existing events to the next level.”

Those wishing to learn more about the fund can visit travelcolumbiavalley.com.

Travel Columbia Valley has announced a new event sponsorship fund to support existing events or create new ones. Shown here are the Invermere Light Up and Santa Claus Parade, the Radium car show and Radium’s Friday night Market on Main.

New RMT offers evening, weekend hours

By Steve Hubrecht  steve@columbiavalleypioneer.com

Windermere resident Matt Robertson recently launched a new massage business — Robertson Massage Therapy — based in the Valley Fitness Centre (VFC).

For Robertson, the business is another step in putting down roots in a community he’s come to love. He originally grew up on the coast, eventually moved to Vernon, and then Calgary. In 2017 he and his wife Susan came to the valley from Alberta on a camping trip and to visit friends.

“We had an instant attraction to the area,” remembers Robertson. Instant attraction indeed: later the same year, the couple bought a home in Windermere. They continued to live in Alberta, visiting the valley on weekends and vacations. When the COVID-19 pandemic struck in 2020, they moved here and worked remotely.

“We enjoyed it so much, we didn’t want to go back,” said Robertson. The pandemic has subsided but the couple and the family’s Siberian forest cat Olliver remained in the valley. Robertson has already tweaked his career path a few times, so he decided to tweak it once more: he went back to school and became a registered massage therapist. The change allows him to work face-toface with people, and help them with their health and wellness goals — something Robertson much prefers to sitting on a computer all day long.

In some ways, becoming a registered massage therapist has brought Robertson’s career full circle. When he was a kid he was active in sports such as volleyball, basketball, and track and field and had several injuries. He was fascinated by the way physiotherapists and other health practitioners helped him heal. It sparked something in him.

“I realized that was what I wanted to do — guide others to help them improve

their function. I’d had that help, and I wanted to give it to others,” he said.

Robertson graduated from university with a degree in kinesiology and became a professional kinesiologist, working in clinics with other health practitioners. He ended up assisting ICBC clients with their rehabilitation, and eventually became a Canadian registered safely professional, starting a whole new career.

As a safety pro, Robertson helped organizations big and small make sure their health and safety practices were top notch. It was this work that took Robertson to Vernon, where he met Susan, and then on to Alberta, first in Airdrie, then in Calgary. But now they’ve been full-time valley residents for more than three years and have no intention of ever moving back to Alberta.

“This is the lifestyle we’ve always wanted. It’s incredible here,” said Robertson. The pair spend time skiing, snowboarding, hiking, or out on the lake. Robertson loves every outdoor pursuit, but when you press him to pick an absolute favourite, he’ll tell you it’s a powder day at Panorama Mountain Resort, ripping down the Heli High run.

“You look out from there, and it’s amazing,” he said.

In setting up Robertson Massage Therapy, Robertson has found an open niche in the valley’s health and wellness industry that he wants to fill — he works Fridays through Tuesday, right over the weekend, and he works evenings (until 7 p.m.) each night. He noted it can be hard for active, working valley residents to squeeze massage appointments into the Monday to Friday timeframe, so he wanted to offer something alternative. He’s ICBC approved, and also offers mobile massage services (i.e. he will come to the patient’s home) for those with mobility issues or who might otherwise have trouble accessing appointments.  To learn more visit robertsonmt. com.

Registered massage therapist Matt Robertson has launched a new business in Valley Fitness Centre. He is shown below with his wife Susan. PHOTOS

OUT OF OFFICE…

Leading Positive Change

I’m a few months into my position at the Columbia Valley Chamber of Commerce and while I wouldn’t say I have learned the ropes yet; I can confidently say that I am starting to find some of them! They are very nice ropes.

I recently had the opportunity to attend a webinar put on by the Chamber of Commerce Executives of Canada entitled “Return on Membership and the Brand Driven CEO” by Rory Ring, from the Sault Ste. Marie Chamber of Commerce and it was very thought-provoking seminar. While focusing on increasing membership, the strategies suggested were not as straightforward as one might assume – instead of direct recruitment, Rory Ring suggests that it is

far more important to create a positive environment where people feel like they are a part of something bigger; something that creates a positive lasting effect in their environment, on a small or large scale. This is an approach that I am intimately familiar with – if you create an environment where people feel not just accepted, but welcomed, people want to be there. It’s human nature! Right now, you have the opportunity to become a part of leading positive change – the CV Chamber is hosting their Annual General Meeting on Wednesday March 27th and everyone is welcome to attend (if you are a member and can’t attend, please consider registering and assigning a proxy so that your voice

can still be heard). Please register for the AGM on the website (cvchamber.ca).

Leading positive change and creating multi-faceted support is something that the Columbia Valley Chamber strives to do for the business community throughout the valley – after all, this is an incredible place to live and maintaining it as an awesome place to have a business just makes sense! I’m beyond excited to be a part of an organization that prioritizes support for their present and future members, regardless of their business type, goals or status. Let’s work on learning these ropes together!

-Deanna Berrington

Thursday, March 7

• 1:00pm-5:00pm: Job & Volunteer Fair. Columbia Valley Centre. Drop by and see what employment and volunteer opportunities are available in the Columbia Valley!

• 10:30am-11:30am: Senior’s Fitness Columbia Valley Centre, $2 drop-in. **please note that this week this event will take place at the Invermere Seniors Hall**

• 11:30am-12:00pm: Little Lambs – Baby Program. Radium Public Library. Join us for songs, rhymes, and stories with your babies! No registration required.

• 2:00pm-3:00pm: Needles & Hooks. Invermere Public Library. Join us on the 1st & 3rd Thursday of each month at 2:00pm for Needles & Hooks. Bring your current yarn project and meet with other makers. All welcome!

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

• 7:30pm: Families Housing that Fits. Zoom meeting with host Ben Postmus. Inclusive and supportive housing in your community. diversefamilyroots@gmail.com

• 7:30pm: Trivia Night Windermere Whitehouse Pub. Host Mandi Cox $3/ person, teams of more than 6 will be split into two groups. Ages 19+

Friday, March 8

• 7:00pm: Slide Show: Pat Morrow & His Mountains. Edgewater Community Hall. Admission by donation, refreshments to follow. Everyone Welcome.

• 7:00pm: International Women’s Day World Day of Prayer. Christ Church Trinity. We invite all people of good will to join us.  Refreshments to follow. Join us virtually with Zoom if you can't join us in person - Link available through WVSM.ca

• 10:30am-11:00am: Family Storytime. Invermere Public Library. Join us weekly on Fridays for Family Storytime at the library! With stories, songs & a craft. Geared towards preschool age (2-5) but all welcome.

• 2:00pm-3:00pm: Friday Funday. Invermere Public Library. STEAM: Open-ended play with Ozobots, Dash bots and other fun tech. Drop-in programming. Drop-off for ages 7+. Younger children are more than welcome to join with a grown-up.

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

Saturday, March 9

• 10:30am-11:00am: Family Storytime. Invermere Public Library. Join us weekly on Saturdays for Family Storytime at the library! With stories, songs & a craft. Geared towards preschool age (2-5) but all welcome.

• 11:00am-12:30pm: LEGO/Duplo Club Invermere Public Library. We'll have Lego, Duplo, big blocks & more out to play with on Saturday mornings! All ages welcome.

• 2:00pm-4:00pm: Buddy Reading. Invermere Public Library. Contact us to book a 30 minute session to read with a librarian. Practice reading aloud one-on-one to build skill, confidence & a love of reading! Open to all ages and reading abilities.

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

Sunday, March 10

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

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

• 7:30pm: Dads Matter. Zoom meeting with host Ben Postmus. Dads connecting, Dads Supporting, Dads Inspiring. Do you have a son or daughter with Diverse Abilities? So do I. diversefamilyroots@gmail.com

Monday, March 11

• 10:00am-11:00am: Senior's Yoga Columbia Valley Centre, Invermere. $2 drop in, open to all seniors.

• 10:15am-11:15am: Baby Goose. Invermere Public Library. Learn new songs and rhymes to share with your baby and meet other parents/ caregivers with young children. Drop-in program. Hosted by Columbia Basin Alliance for Literacy- Windermere Valley. Six-week session from Feb. 12-March 18.

• 6:30pm: Poker (Chip up for Charity). The Station Pub $20 buy-in. Every Monday.

Tuesday, March 12

• 3:00pm-5:00pm: Seniors’ Game Days. Invermere Seniors’ Hall. Come out to the Invermere Seniors' Hall for an afternoon of playing board games and connecting!  Snacks and beverages will be provided.  This is a free event and pre-registration is encouraged: wvcoordinator@cbal. org or call/text 250-409-4251.

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

• 10:30am-11:30am: Homeschool Meetup. Invermere Public Library. Drop-in, all-ages programming with open-ended STEAM play, group activities and art projects. A chance for homeschool kids and families to get together! Please contact us to get on the Homeschool email list to stay up to date and see what extended programs are coming up.

• 1:00pm-3:30pm: Art in the Afternoon. Radium Public Library. A free program for local artists and art enthusiasts! Whether you sketch, paint, carve, knit or crochet, bring your supplies and work alongside fellow artists.

• 6:30pm-8:00pm: Second Winds Community Band. Practice at Invermere Catholic Church Annex. For info please email dalvande@ shaw.ca

• 7:00pm: Ullr Presents: Musical Bingo with Tim Richards. Ullr Bar. Every Tuesday - $5 per card.

• 7:30pm: Families on Tuesday. Zoom meeting with host Ben Postmus. Families connecting, Families Sharing, Families Supporting Families: Support, Listening, Sharing, Connecting. diversefamilyroots@gmail.com

• Wednesday, March 13

• 10:00am-11:00am: Senior's Yoga Columbia Valley Centre, $2 dropin.

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

• 3:00pm-4:30pm: After School Club. Invermere Public Library. A window of transition time between school and home or extracurriculars. Come colour, bead, play with LEGO and catch up with friends! Open to all school-aged kids and teens. Drop-off allowed for Grade 2 students and up. Younger kids are welcome with a grown-up. Please bring your own snacks! Register. https://invermere.bc.libraries. coop/

• 6:00pm-9:00pm: Wednesday Dinners & Meat Draw & 50/50 Invermere Legion. All welcome.

SPORTS BEY ND THE BLUE LINE

Inspirational fan support (top photo) is a huge boost to the Rockies during the playoffs. At left, injured Rockies player Teo Fath adds his excitement behind the glass. At right, Oleg Bitus (#10) looks ahead during play.

Rockies primed to haunt Ghostriders

By Stephanie Stevens

It took grit, guts and hard work. And a cheering crowd didn’t hurt either.

The first round of the Eddie Mountain Division series ended February 29 and the Columbia Valley Rockies took the series of seven games from the Kimberley Dynamiters in their own barn in game five.

“The guys came out in this series and just out-competed Kimberley,” said head coach Tayler Sincennes.

“We played with desperation and that's a good thing to have in a playoff series against a higher seeded team.”

Game four was played in the Eddie on February 27 and ended 3-1 for the Rockies.

Opening up the scoring in the first was Kobe Mason (assists from Kyran Gromnisky and Bryan Kim) with a power play goal, followed in the second period by Luke Hamilton (assists from Kaelan Shelton and Wyatt Wurtz). The third period saw Jamieson Franz beat the Nitros’ goaltender with an assist from Kade Cochlan. Rockies netminder Nate Glenn once again stepped up and stopped 33 of 34 shots on goal.

“We really adopted the underdog mentality and wanted to show everyone what we were capable of doing,” said Sincennes. “I think there was fuel added

to the fire in that 9-3 game they beat us in a couple of weeks ago.”

For what ended up being the final game in the Kimberley Arena the Rockies skated onto the ice towards a roaring crowd of Columbia Valley supporters, something Sincennes said gave the team an added boost.

“Having the fans travel from Invermere to Kimberley was truly incredible … the guys fed off their energy and it was awesome to see the support we are getting from the community right now.”

With Glenn once again between the pipes, first period scoring was courtesy of a power play goal by Kim (assist from Shelton), with Franz stepping up again in the second (assists from Gage Sather and Oleg Bitus) and Carter Velker adding another (assists from Teo Fath and Gromnisky). The third period and final goal of the first round went to Bitus (assist from Velker and Sather) in a power play.

“I think we showed ourselves it doesn't matter where we play with achieving three of four wins on the road,” said assistant coach Tanner Wit. “We played physical and set the tone early, not to mention we had great goaltending which isn't that surprising.”

Wit echoed Sincennes’ sentiments about the energy and support the team gleaned from the fans that

followed them on the road.

“(We are) excited to play Fernie as it will be a really energetic series and I'm excited to play in front of our very passionate crowd.”

Associate coach Tucker Braund said he watched the team get better as the first round went on and is looking forward to the second round against the Fernie Ghostriders.

“We've made some adjustments and the guys have bought into how we want them to play which is really why we are getting success,” he said. “They are motivated right now. It's good. We can play spoiler again with this match-up … I think our guys like the matchup with Fernie.”

While the Ghostriders led the Eddie Mountain Division in points in the regular season, the ‘Riders and Rockies are even with eight points each going into the second playoff round.

Games one and two will be played in Fernie this Friday, March 8 and Saturday, March 9, with back-toback home games on Monday the 11th and Tuesday the 12th. Short of one team taking all four first matchups, the fifth game will be in Fernie Thursday the 14th, the sixth (if needed) will be home in the Eddie again and (if needed) the tie breaker in Fernie on Monday, March 18.

PHOTOS STEPHANIE STEVENS

Key recommendations ignored: Beaudin

By: Julia Magsombol Local Initiative Reporter julia@columbiavalleypioneer.com

Kim Beaudin, national vice-chief of the Congress of Aboriginal Peoples (CAP), attended the final inquest of Myles Sanderson last week, but unfortunately he felt unheard.

“When the recommendations came down, people were asked for their comments . . . I didn’t have an opportunity to address those,” Beaudin said.

The inquest shone a light on Sanderson’s case in which the troubled man killed 11 people and injured 17 others during a stabbing spree on James Smith Cree Nation in 2022.

Beaudin described how many people were at Sanderson’s inquest, and how the recommendations he made through CAP weren’t included or addressed.

“There should have been a national inquiry. Why are we into this? What happened?”

From past interviews, it was known that Sanderson suffered from mental health issues and was traumatized in his childhood. Read more at https://www.columbiavalleypioneer.com/cap-passionate-to-help-indigenous-inmates/)

Beaudin said out of 29 recommendations made in the first inquest and four in the second, healing lodges

or mental health facilities were not discussed at the inquest, which he believes should have been addressed.

“I was frustrated,” he noted. “They don’t even know what they’re talking about. And [they] kept referring to policy all the time.”

Beaudin felt they needed to dig deeper with the inquest, especially the recommendations.

Beaudin explained that in the Canadian Civil Liberties Association (CCLA) report, “80 per cent of people are innocent, rotting in prisons right now.” He said those people probably did not have proper court hearings. Those prisoners also did not receive any healing programs, according to Beaudin.

“What happened to the accountability to our own people?” he questioned. “How come the Indigenous people who end up in the system are not accountable to their people? From a colonial point of view, they believe that if they are accountable, we’re going to cut them a break and give them a get-out-of-jail card, and that is not true at all. So it is a lot easier for you to go through the justice system as an Indigenous person when there’s no accountability to your own people.”

Beaudin said Sanderson died because of a drug overdose, noting it is still a big question how Canadian prisoners have access to drugs and eventually die inside their cells.

Recently, it was reported that the deaths in Que-

Barn bats seek new home in Fairmont

Columbia Valley Pioneer staff

While bats may strike fear in some people, one local advocate is trying to prevent a colony from being homeless in Fairmont Hot Springs.

For years, the old barn at Fairmont Hot Springs Resort has stood as a beloved and familiar landmark to local residents and visitors alike, says Rachel Milner, a volunteer with the Kootenay Community Bat Project (KCBP).

Milner points out the barn serves as a summer home for several bat species, but notes the resort is planning to demolish the building, which will leave the colony without a home. But she adds there is a solution, citing help from the Columbia Valley Local Conservation Fund that offers artificial roosting habitats, including a 'bat condo' as alternative housing. Milner says the only

requirement is the resort's permission to place the condo on a corner of their land near the old barn.

“Unfortunately, despite being informed of the protected status of all bat species in BC under the Wildlife Act, the resort has declined to grant permission.”

Milner states that providing bats with a condo would help prevent them from inhabiting other buildings where they might not be wanted. In addition, the presence of a bat condo could serve as an educational opportunity for the resort's visitors, enhancing its wildlife-friendly image, she points out.

The Pioneer contaced Fairmont Hot Springs Resort for comment but there was no response by press time Tuesday.

For more information on bats, visit the BC bat website at https://www. kcbp.ca/

bec prisons rose by 87 per cent. Beaudin stated that some are women, and it is through assault and suicide. See https://montreal.ctvnews.ca/deaths-in-quebecprisons-rise-by-87-per-cent-study-1.6777762

“You’re sent to a facility as punishment, not for punishment, and there’s a big difference,” Beaudin explained, adding that the current situation of inmates in Canada’s prisons is not good.

Some of the recommendations that CAP and Beaudin created include the ones that were not addressed in the inquest, such as the responsibility for Treaty obligations. It also includes Indigenous Peoples who are not to be limited to elders’ teaching and mental health workers specifically.

CAP calls on the government to work cooperatively to fulfill its responsibilities towards Canada’s First Nations people.

Beaudin will meet with commissioners next week and will bring up the recommendations that were ignored during Sanderson’s inquest, hoping his voice and thousands of Indigenous Peoples will be heard.

“We’re trying to do everything we can to create an environment where they’re actually treated like people . . . human beings,” he said.

For more information about the recommendations, contact CAP’s director of media relations, Nigel Newlove at n.newlove@abo-peoples.org.

PUBLIC NOTICE

As

the public is invited to comment on the updated forest development proposals in the areas listed below.

Forest License A19040/K1W/A94545 - Elko/Sparwood/Cranbrook

Area Landscape Unit/ Location West Fork C06 / Upper St. Mary’s

Gilnockie/Sunrise C09 / Yahk River

Larch Ck/Wickman Ck/ Bloom C10 / Caven

Cabin/Wigwam River C15 / Lodgepole

Flathead/Lodgepole C16 / West Flathead

Corbin C19 / Corbin Creek

Teepee Ck C37 / Linklater

Contact Paul Picard, RPF @ 250-402-3681 or email at paul.picard@canfor.com

Forest License A20212/A20214/A94264 - Creston

Area Landscape Unit/ Location

Mahon/Cryer Ck K02 / Moyie River

Cold Ck K03 / Hawkins Creek

Contact Paul Picard, RPF @ 250-402-3681 or email at paul.picard@canfor.com

Forest License A18978 - Canal Flats

Area Landscape Unit/ Location

Skookumchuck FSR 18km I03 / Skookumchuck Lussier River I05 / Lussier/Coyote

Kootenay Bypass I10 / Nine Mile

Lower Findlay Creek I12 / Doctor/Fir

Contact Brian Feeney, RFT @ 250-347-6655 or email at brian.feeney@canfor.com

Forest License A18979 - Radium

Area Landscape Unit/ Location

Brewer Creek South I14 / Brewer/Dutch

Lower Cochran Creek – Forest Health I21 / Cochran Ravenshead I24/Pedley

Gopher Cr. To Green Barn Access Rd. I26 / Horsethief

South Steamboat Mountain/Horsethief FSR I29 / Steamboat

Contact Brian Feeney, RFT @ 250-347-6655 or email at brian.feeney@canfor.com

Tree Farm License 14 - Parson

Area Landscape Unit/ Location

Vowell Creek/Summit Ridge South I34 / Bobbie Burns

Lower Spillimacheen various areas I35 / Lower Spillimacheen

Twelve Mile Benches I38 / Twelve Mile

Contact Brian Feeney, RFT @ 250-347-6655 or email at brian.feeney@canfor.com

Please contact the appropriate Planner at the numbers listed above to arrange a mutually agreeable time to review the plans. Comments received by April 5, 2024 will be considered in the planning and harvesting phases.

A volunteer with the Kootenay Community Bat Project fears that the planned demolition of the old barn on Fairmont Hot Springs Resort property will leave many bats homeless.

By: Julia Magsombol Local Initiative Reporter julia@columbiavalleypioneer.com

Columbia Valley Métis Association (CVMA) offers a Métis sash weaving course steeped in tradition from March until June.

The Métis sash is a key part of Métis traditional dress. It has bright colours and can incorporate beads and other embellishments. Like ribbon skirts, the sash is sometimes available in different Indigenous clothing stores. When you enter these stores, sashes can first attract your attention due to their colours.

It is known that a majority of strands of sash are similar in colour, and some represent a shared history, traditions and identity. Different shades represent the uniqueness of Métis individuals and communities.

Most sashes are hand-woven wool belts; their fringed ends are specifically decorative.

For men, sashes are worn around the waist or over the shoulder. Métis women also occasionally wear it over the shoulder.

Sashes are usually worn in ceremonials as decoration, and to show pride in Métis heritage.

Historically, only men wore the

sash, but today, wearing the sash varies in different Métis communities — it also represents the strength of Métis people together.

A quote from the Gabriel Dumont Institute: “One strand of wool alone, even the strongest strand, can be broken easily the first time it is stressed. The same strand, however, woven together with other strands is supported on all sides. Weak spots along any strand are compensated by the strength of the other strands. A single strand has a lesser risk of breaking when it is woven among the other strands. By weaving the strands together, you strengthen the sash. In other words, weave all of the strands of a cultural and education community together, and you strengthen the community. All of the strands woven together become something beautiful and strong.”

Today, the sash has a variety of uses, such as scarves, tumplines, washcloths, towels, and blankets.

Learn more from https://albertametis.com/culture/symbols-of-culture/

The CVMA offers a three-month sash weaving course for all ages. It is self-paced, therefore easy for beginners.

However, registration for this course is closed since the class is full.

250-341-6299

info@columbiavalleypioneer.com

Bottle Drive Fundraiser

Saturday March 9 - 9am-1pm

Drop off at DTSS parking lot 1535 14 Street

Serving

Invermere & Area

cell 250-341-1202 gerry@gerrytaft.ca

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 250-878-2448 or 250-342-8392

Alcoholics Anonymous. If alcohol is causing problems or conflict in your life, AA can help. All meetings are at 7 pm. Columbia United AA, Invermere: Saturday, Sunday, Tuesday and Wednesday at the BC Service Building, South End-624 4th St. Invermere. Please call 250-3422424 for more information or to speak with someone from our fellowship.

Narcotics Anonymous. Open meeting.

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

Valley Fitness Society AGM

March 21, 2024  6:00 pm

Invermere Inn Boardroom

All are welcome!

All funds raised are going towards Dry Grad. Not able to drop off?

Call Melody 250-688-1738 to arrange pick-up

CHEERS

Double Cheers to a beautiful neighbor Mark Kline who unexpectedly brought me a cheesecake for my 69th birthday. What a thoughtful gesture!!

Cheers to Tracey, Cheryl and Seena from the Crossroads Market for the wonderful customer service you give to this senior citizen. Your many acts of kindness are very much appreciated.

Cheers to Jessie of Pow Pizza in Windermere. After reading the article in the Columbia Valley Pioneer, drove down to your neat location in Windermere and enjoyed a very delicious veggie pizza. Great pizza and great customer service. I will be back!

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

A HUGE cheers to Pat Bavin, C. Bakos, and Ryan Watmough for the research they have done and for their very thoughtful letters regarding the impact of STR’s within INVERMERE.

Cheers to Syd Danis for the great phots taken at the Oldtimers tournament in Canal Flats last weekend.

B. B.’s Home and Design Services Renovations, Masonry & Handyman Services, Blinds, House checks, eavestrough/ yard cleaning/dump runs. 250-688-2897 or 403-861-8782

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

Landscaping, Asphalt Pads, General Contracting, Cleaning Gutters, House Checks, Pressure Washing. Call Ryan 604-346-5087

Local Electrical Contractor looking for Journeyman Electrician. Wage DOE. Email resume to: ekelectric@telus.net.

www.columbiavalleypioneer.com

In Loving Memory

Donabelle Cathaleen Williams

October 27, 1940 — February 18, 2024

It is with great sadness that our family announces the passing of Donabelle Cathaleen Williams (nee McKee) on February 18, 2024, at the age of 83, in Columbia House in Invermere, BC. She was born on October 27, 1940 in Regina, Saskatchewan.

Donabelle is survived by her husband Howie, their sons and wives Scott and Annette, Chris and April, and son-in-law Wayne, loving sisters Glenda, Marlene and brother-in-law Bruce. She is pre-deceased by her daughter Shelley and granddaughter Amanda.

Donabelle’s biggest love was family. She and Howie were blessed with grandchildren Nathan, Ben, Matthew, Brenden, Kailey, Amanda, Amber and great-grandchildren Angus, Isaac, Colin, Amelia, Lochlan, Chloe, Tyler, and Tykrawh.

Donabelle and Howie met at RCAF Base Moose Jaw in 1958. She was a stenographer, and he was an RCAF Aeroengine technician. On April 18, 1960, they were married and within 10 months they were blessed with their daughter Shelley. Two years later her brother Scott arrived and 8 years later a surprise blessing, Chris.

Donabelle was called Mom by numerous “honorary daughters” who either lived with her and Howie for a short time or needed a loving mom.

She and Howie lived in several provinces and in Germany for 4 years during their 36 years of Airforce life. Germany was her favourite place, as it opened to her many international possibilities, which she embraced fully.

Donabelle loved travelling to different places and thoroughly enjoyed twelve cruises, two of which were renewal of vows ceremonies with family on board. There will be a Celebration of Life Service at Lake Windermere Alliance Church at 1:00 pm (13:00 hrs) on Wednesday March 27, 2024. Colourful attire is preferred, black optional.

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

www.columbiavalleypioneer.com

Columbia Valley Pioneer staff

A building bylaw will never make the ‘best seller’ list, but residents of the Regional District of East Kootenay (RDEK) are being encouraged to read how the latest update will impact them.

The new document will take effect next month.

“Starting on April 1, there will be an excavation and footings inspection prior to concrete place-

ment, which will put us in step with all of our neighbouring jurisdictions,” says RDEK Building Supervisor Kenley Barros.

Additionally, there will be a non-refundable fee that will be required at the time of application submission. This cost will be deducted from the total building permit fee once the application is approved.

“The goal of this new fee is to partially recover the costs for in-

complete applications, applications that cannot be approved, or applications that are cancelled prior to issuance,” Barros says.

The building bylaw has been updated to align with the standard template set by the Municipal Insurance Association of BC Building Bylaw.

For more information on these changes, visit the RDEK website at rdek.bc.ca.

Adolf “Eric” Deimling

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Eric in the early morning hours of February 22, 2024.

Eric is survived by his loving wife of 47 years, Eileen (nee Heinaman), as well as three children – Gordon, Angela and Robert. Additionally, he is survived by four stepchildren - Sharon, Brent, Brenda and Colleen.

Eric immigrated to Canada in 1951 as a Master cabinet maker, gaining his experience in Germany. Upon immigrating to Canada, he gained his status as a Master Carpenter. He worked for Dominion Construction as a supervisor. He also worked at Fort MacMurray AB on the Suncor Project.

Throughout his life Eric always instilled in everyone around him to strive to be the best that they can be and do things to the best of their ability.

Upon retirement Eric and Eileen moved to Radium so Eric could be closer to his beloved mountains. His last large construction project was to hand-build the house he and Eileen shared for the past 31 years.

It was Eric’s wish to be cremated. Arrangements for interment in the cemetery located in Grenfell, Saskatchewan will be made at a later date.

Eric touched many people in his life through his endeavours and actions, and he will be sorely missed.

CBT supports projects

Columbia Valley Pioneer staff

Columbia Basin Trust (CBT) is supporting four new projects to enhance the ecological health of the region.

The group is providing $257,000 to improve native biodiversity in:

Bummers Flats

Activities include removing dikes and ditches and re-establishing natural inlets and outlets to the Kootenay River. The five-year project will positively impact ecosystems along the river, improving habitat for species like the Columbia spotted frog and the at-risk northern leopard frog.

“The project vision is to return Bummers Flats to a naturalized, self-sustaining ecosystem, driven by natural flood pulses and processes,” said Matthew Wilson, head of conservation programs. He added the project will create a mosaic of wetland habitats to enhance the landscapes for many native species.

Steeples mountain range

The Rocky Mountain Trench Natural Resources Society is undertaking a five-year project on Crown land to improve habitat on 60 hectares of forest, 7,000 square metres of wetland ecosystems, and 163 hectares of grasslands. Activities include grass seeding, manual thinning of the forest and managing in-

vasive plants.

“The plan will result in tangible benefits for wildlife through restoration of grassland, wetland and forest ecosystems,” said Marc Trudeau, coordinator/ project manager. “It will enhance forested wintering habitat for bighorn sheep; grasslands to the benefit of elk, deer and livestock; and overall ecosystem health and function around the wetland.”

Bull River grassland corridor

The plan is to give Rocky Mountain bighorn sheep, Rocky Mountain elk, white-tailed deer, mule deer, and the American badger better room to roam.

The project includes restoring 28 hectares of dry open forest and grasslands by thinning the forest, creating trees and controlling invasive plants.

“Forest thinning will seek to mimic historic, fire-maintained conditions, increasing the quantity and quality of the forage available for ungulates, and improving sight lines to support free movement and avoidance of predators,” said Michelle Daniel, senior field operations coordinator

Slocan River

Woody debris will be placed in the water, while live trees and shrubs will be planted along the bank, all to benefit juvenile rainbow trout by enhancing its rearing habitat.

EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY

Summer Students

The District of Invermere has openings for Summer Students in the Parks Labourer, Garden Labourer and Events Labourer positions in the Public Works Department. This is a temporary full-time or part-time position within the CUPE Local 2982 bargaining unit starting in May until the end of August. Students will be able to work up to 40 hours per week, however we will also consider students for temporary part-time positions for less than 40 hours per week.

DESCRIPTION

Parks Labourers

Under general supervision, the Student Labourer performs a variety of semiskilled and manual labouring duties. Work typically involves tasks such as parks and cemetery landscaping, garbage pick-up, painting, pothole filling, driving, graffiti removal and other tasks as assigned. The days will consist of 8 hour days, with a typical start time of 8 am, however start time may be as early as 6:00am. Typical work days are Monday to Friday, however some weekend shifts will be required.

Gardeners

Under general supervision, the Student Gardener is primarily focused on flowerbed planting and maintenance. Work typically involves helping with the preparation of flowerbeds, gardening tasks involving the cultivation of a variety of flowers and plants in large garden areas, planting, weeding, fertilizing, and pruning numerous varieties of plants, flowers, shrubs, bushes, and trees. The days will consist of 8 hour days, with a typical start time is between 6:00am and 8:00 am depending on activities and weather. Typical work days are Monday to Friday; however some weekend shifts will be required.

Events

Under general supervision, the Student Event will assist with the set up and take down of Movies in the Mountains every Monday evening in July and August between the hours of 4:00 pm-1:00 am. These hours will vary based on the movie start times and daylight hours. Other assigned duties could also include assisting with the set up and take down of other District of Invermere events during July and August.

EMPLOYMENT TERM:

Employment will commence in early May and will terminate in late August.

STARTING PAY RATE:

The current starting wage for a student is $19.65.

REQUIRED KNOWLEDGE, ABILITIES AND SKILLS

1. Must be enrolled in high school or post secondary school.

2. Some related experience or an equivalent combination of training and experience.

3. Knowledge of Occupational Health & Safety Regulations as related and appropriate.

4.Valid Class 5 BC Drivers License.

HOW TO APPLY:

If you are interested in this position, please send a cover letter and resume outlining your qualifications and experience to corporateservices@invermere. net or the address below quoting “Summer Student 2024 – the position you would like to apply for”.

District of Invermere

Attn: Kindry Luyendyk, Corporate Officer

Box 339, Invermere, BC, V0A 1K0

Tel: (250) 342-9281

Fax: (250) 342-2934

Email: corporateservices@invermere.net

This opportunity will remain open until it is filled.

We thank all applicants for their interest; however, only those considered for an interview will be contacted.

Additional information about this opportunity may be requested by contacting the District’s Corporate Officer.

A paddle adventure down the Columbia

By Steve Hubrecht  steve@columbiavalleypioneer.com

Hannah Griffin paddled under the three bridges that span the Columbia River in Revelstoke. It was a beautiful day, the water was clear and Hannah and her partner Steve Hews were flying along the river. Friends had spotting their canoe in the current and cheered them on from atop Boulder Mountain earlier in the day.

The pair were arriving back home, having paddled almost 500 kilometres of the Columbia, all the way from Canal Flats, over the previous nine days. They pulled up to shore in downtown Revelstoke, along a stretch of the Columbia that Hannah knows well — she walks her two husky dogs there often, swims with friends in the currents there in the summer, and frequently glimpses the river from the mountain slope above during the winter. But her relationship to the river had started to change during the past nine days. It would keep doing so as she continued paddling downstream — this time on her own (Steve had to go back to work) — for 800 kilo-

Invermere

on the Lake

metres more, before ending her trip in Washington State.

Readers with acute memories will recall that the Pioneer published a letter to the editor from Hannah and Steve several months ago, deploring golf balls in the Columbia where the river passes Fairmont Hot Springs. To mark and celebrate International Women’s Day (which falls on Friday, March 8), the Pioneer reached out to Hannah to find out more about her long trip, which began last July.

At least, that’s when the paddling began. The origins stretch back farther, to a love of canoe tripping that Hannah developed while working in summer camps in northern Ontario. She moved to B.C. more than a decade ago, living first at Panorama Mountain Resort, then other Kootenay communities, Vancouver Island and Squamish, before eventually settling in Revelstoke. In between all that she spent time in New York and in Mongolia. She worked as a journalist and then in the tech industry. But memories of the joys of long days spent paddling always remained in the back of her mind. And when she and

DISTRICT OF INVERMERE

914 – 8th Avenue, PO Box 339 Invermere, BC V0A 1K0

Tel: (250) 342-9281 Fax: (250) 342-2934

EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY

Environmental Planner (Temporary Part-Time Contract)

The District of lnvermere is seeking an experienced and customer service focused individual to join our team as Environmental Planner. Reporting to the Director of Development Services, the Environmental Planner is a member of the District’s planning and development team and plays a crucial role in reviewing and reporting on development applications, and identifying climate change risks and mitigation opportunities for action by the municipality.

THE POSITION:

We are seeking a proactive individual with superior verbal and written communication skills, exceptional project management skills, and highly effective decision-making skills. You should also have a successful track record of using your technical expertise and problem-solving abilities to find successful innovative solutions. You are also known for working collaboratively with all interested parties to find win-win solutions that protect community interests and make solid recommendations to District Council.

You will be working with a group of highly experienced staff who will be expecting you to bring energy and enthusiasm to the position, communicate effectively and positively, while being sensitive and respectful to differing opinions. Your collaborative work style will help sustain a positive and respectful workplace climate.

This is an excellent opportunity to join a team dedicated to creating a vibrant, sustainable, complete, and livable community.

HOW TO APPLY:

If you are interested in this position, please send a cover letter and resume outlining your qualifications and experience to the email or the address below by 4:00 pm (MT), April 4th, 2024 quoting “Environmental Planner 2024”.

District of Invermere

Kindry Luyendyk, Corporate Officer Box 339, 914 – 8th Avenue

Invermere, BC, V0A 1K0

corporateservices@invermere.net

Tel: 250-342-9281

Steve first moved to Revelstoke, she was fascinated by the fact that water flowing just a few blocks from their home eventually went all the way to the Pacific. What would it be like to paddle it? Hannah couldn’t get that thought out of her head.

Last spring she lost her job. The tech company she worked for wasn’t doing as well as hoped, and so cut staff, including Hannah. Most people would be devastated. But for Hannah it seemed like an opportunity had just opened up — she now had the time available to follow the current of the Columbia. She spent months preparing for the trip – studying the route, reading accounts of those who had done it before (which were few and far between), dehydrating food and packing.

On July 31, Hannah and Steve launched at Tilley Memorial Park in Canal Flats. A brisk tail wind bore them up Columbia Lake. They dodged herds of people floating the river near Fairmont, then camped beside the rail tracks on the western shore of Lake Windermere. After Lake Windermere, they paddled the braided, serpentine stretches of the Columbia River that wind through the world-famous Columbia Wetlands, between Invermere and Golden.

This part of the trip was a major highlight. “There are so many bird species,” said Hannah. “The river is flowing free, not affected by dams like it is lower down. You’re surrounded by high

mountains on all sides. It’s special.”

Beyond Golden, the couple paddled Kinbasket Lake, the huge reservoir formed by the Mica Dam. The surroundings were beautiful, but the effects of the reservoir — erosion and debris on the shore — were evident. It was windy too, forcing the pair to paddle from 6 a.m. to 10 a.m., then stop for most of the day to wait out the gusts, and begin paddling again at about 5 p.m. At one point they paddled along the shore while a wildfire raged on the mountain slopes overhead.

“You could see the trees erupting in flames . . . the forest down closer to the shore was charred black. You could still feel the warmth in the air,” said Hannah.

It was a remote spot, a very long way from help of any sort, which only heightened the mood. The couple thought about paddling to the other side of the lake to be further from the flames. But doing so would’ve entailed a potentially treacherous crossing of an arm of the lake notorious for high winds. These very same winds had, decades ago, whipped down the arm, capsizing a group of canoeists, leaving some of them to succumb to hypothermia. Hannah and Steve decided to avoid the arm, and kept paddling under the fire.

Long portages around Mica Dam and Revelstoke Dam followed, before the couple eventually made it back to Revelstoke.

Continued on page 19

Revelstoke resident (and former Panorama resident) Hannah Griffin paddled 1,300 kilometres of the Columbia River last summer, starting in Canal Flats and ending in Vantage, Washington State, doing much of the trip solo. She’ll finish the paddle this summer.

PHOTOS SUBMITTED

Solo paddle lonely but unforgettable

Continued from page 18

Then Hannah set out on her own, down the Arrow Lakes, across the border and on through Washington state. Dams (including the famous Grand Coulee) and reservoirs cropped up far more frequently, and the Columbia was not really a free-flowing river any more. The landscape became flatter and more arid. People were everywhere.

“I realized I’d never done a trip through a populated area. It was always somewhere remote, like Algonquin or Temagami,” said Hannah. “The dams were really eye-opening. From one side to the other, you were so much lower in elevation. And the water on the other side, the way it moved, the way it flowed, was so different.”

Hannah began to feel exhausted and run down. She chalked it up to long days paddling and the fact that, on some days, smoke from summer wildfires was so thick she could barely see 15 feet ahead. The exhaustion got so bad that Hannah could barely manage to paddle four hours a day before she needed to stop. Normally she could paddle nine to 10 hours a day.

Hannah waited for things to get better. They didn’t. Near the town of Vantage, Washington, she decided to end the trip, 600 kilometres from the Pacific. Steve drove down and brought her back to Revelstoke.

She spent days in bed, barely able to get up. Testing revealed she’d come down with an intense case of giardia (also known as beaver fever).

“It must have slipped through my water filter somehow,” she ruefully recalled.

Hannah rested and recuperated and immediately began planning her return to the Columbia this coming summer,

to finish her paddle to the sea. Steve will join her on those final 600 kilometres. Hannah is grateful to have had the experience of a long solo paddle, but will be happy not to be alone on the river this summer.

“There were a few people I met who did wonder what it was like (paddling the Columbia) as a solo woman . . . but I was fine. They asked ‘aren’t you scared?’ I thought it was mostly about being alone. To be honest, the idea of it being a gender thing didn’t even occur to me,” Hannah told the Pioneer.

Instead, the reason she’s happy to have Steve along for the final stretch of the trip is loneliness. In the populated parts of the Columbia River in Washington State Hannah saw people every day — picnicking on the shore, zooming by in speedboats – but she rarely interacted with them. There were no other long-distance paddlers. Hannah was among people, but somehow strangely apart from them.

“It’s very satisfying to know I can do something like (an extended paddle trip) on my own,” she said. “But now I know that when I do something like that, I like to experience it with other people.”

Paddling the Columbia has changed the meaning of the river for Hannah.

“I think a lot about how it’s a microcosm for so many issues,” she told the Pioneer. “Before it was just a river that went through town (Revelstoke). Now I see it, when I’m running out on the flats (a part of the Columbia River in Revelstoke) or when I’m looking down from the ski hill and I think about water levels. I think about salmon. I think about the Columbia River Treaty and how it may change. And I still think about how crazy it is the water I see going by here is heading all the way to the Pacific.”

EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY

Engineering/Planning Summer Student

The District of Invermere is accepting applications for an Engineering or Planning undergraduate student to work as part of our Public Works and Planning Departments. This is a temporary full-time or part-time position within the CUPE Local 2982 bargaining unit starting in May until the end of August. This position works 35 hours per week.

DESCRIPTION

Under general supervision, the Student Engineering position will work on a variety of projects including development of maintenance programs, assistance with development applications, sourcing quotations for projects, information research, records updates, involvement with civil construction project and other tasks as assigned. The days will consist of 7 hour days, with a start time of 8:30 am, Monday to Friday.

EMPLOYMENT TERM:

Employment will commence in early May and will terminate in late August.

STARTING PAY RATE:

The current starting wage for a student is $26.65

REQUIRED KNOWLEDGE, ABILITIES AND SKILLS:

1. You must be attending school, college or university and enrolled in a Civil Engineering or Planning undergraduate during the last school term and returning to your studies in the subsequent academic year.

2. Knowledge of word-processing, spreadsheets, desktop publishing, and records management would be an asset.

3. Knowledge of municipal operations would be an asset.

4.Knowledge of Occupational Health & Safety Regulations as related and appropriate.

HOW TO APPLY:

If you are interested in this position, please send a cover letter and resume outlining your qualifications and experience to corporateservices@invermere.net or the address below quoting “Summer Student 2024 – Engineering/Planning”.

District of Invermere

Attn: Kindry Luyendyk, Corporate Officer

Box 339, Invermere, BC, V0A 1K0

Tel: (250) 342-9281

Fax: (250) 342-2934

Email: corporateservices@invermere.net

This opportunity will remain open until it is filled.

We thank all applicants for their interest; however, only those considered for an interview will be contacted.

Additional information about this opportunity may be requested by contacting the District’s Corporate Officer.

During one leg of her trip last summer, Hannah Griffin couldn’t avoid wildfire smoke that tainted the landscape.

FAITH Columbia Valley Churches

Women’s Day, prayer held

Submitted by Sally Woodard

On March 8, there will be an evening gathering at Christ Church Trinity that will recognize both International Women’s Day as well as The World Day of Prayer.

International Women’s Day is a global day to recognize and celebrate women’s and girls’ social, economic, cultural, and political achievements.

World Day of Prayer is an international, inter-church event that began around 100 years ago bridging social, geographic, and political barriers in 146 countries. Together we pursue justice, peace, and reconciliation by standing together in prayer and action; uniting to pray for relevant issues affecting wom-

en and children.

The 2024 service seems especially compelling as it was prepared by a committee of Christian women of Palestine.

During the gathering we will be encouraged to reflect on the history and challenges faced by this area as citizens struggle for security, peace and independence as well as the efforts that women have made during changes in ruling influences over the last century.

The gathering on March 8 begins at 7 p.m. A virtual option of Zoom is also available with the link available through the wvsm.ca website. All people of goodwill are welcome.

Please consider joining us.

Life upgrades are available

Rev. Terry Dyck Lake Windermere Alliance Church

Our church recently upgraded our online video camera and sound board.

We had some great help from a friend who loves to apply his expertise and assist groups like ours. We were able to secure a ‘new to us’ mixer and connections, purchase a camera that will significantly improve our ability to live stream, and provide accompanying sound online and in the church.

We may not have high end equipment or studio quality sound but when you move from equipment with diminishing functionality and a borrowed phone camera – it’s a serious upgrade. And don’t get me wrong, the setup was

working, sort of, and the equipment had served us well. But it was time for an upgrade. Perhaps you have upgraded recently and you realize that even when you upgrade an audio/visual system there are elements that come into play, beyond the equipment. Elements like the quality of the installation, having the right tools for the job, connections, and more.

You may have also discovered that even if you have the best equipment, if your signal or raw product coming into your system is low grade, you will have limited improvements.

This can have an application for our personal lives. Can you identify an area or areas of your life that are in need of some kind

of upgrade or change? Are there some patterns in your personal life or relationships that are in need of an upgrade? Maybe you’ve lived in a way that used to work well and now, not so much.

Upgrade equipment – find someone who you observe is thriving. Ask them what they are doing to thrive.

Setup – what is one new habit that would provide an opportunity for positive forward movement?

Right tool for the job – let go of what is not working. Inner life work may require a person with inner life experience and expertise.

Raw product or signals - what is coming into your life? What are you feeding yourself, in media, who are the people you hang out with?

I love interacting with people who are ready or looking for personal ‘upgrades.’ Be encouraged there are upgrades available.

LAKE WINDERMERE ALLIANCE CHURCH

While you are with us, you are always welcome to join us.

Sunday at 10:30 am

326 10th Avenue, Invermere 250-342-9535 | www.lwac.ca

WINDERMERE VALLEY

SHARED MINISTRY ANGLICAN-UNITED

Minister: Brent Woodard

Sundays at 10:30 am, in-person or on Zoom.

For the Zoom link, please visit our website at wvsm.ca. 110 - 7th Ave. in Invermere.

VALLEY CHRISTIAN ASSEMBLY

Pastor: Justin Furse

Sunday 10 a.m. Worship Service 4814 Highway Drive, Windermere 250-342-9511 | www.vcachurch.net

ROMAN CATHOLIC CHURCH

St. Anthony’s, Canal Flats: Saturday, 4 pm

Canadian Martyrs’, Invermere: Saturday 5 pm, Sunday 9 am St. Joseph’s, Radium: Sunday 11 am

Father Francis Dela Cruz | 712 -12th Ave., Invermere 250-342-6167

ST. PETER’S LUTHERAN CHURCH

Sunday 1:30 p.m. Worship Service at Valley Christian 4814 Highway Drive, Windermere lutheranstpeter@gmail.com

RADIUM CHRISTIAN FELLOWSHIP

Sunday 10 a.m. Worship service

Pastor Wayne and Linda Frater | 250-342-6633 #4, 7553 Main St. Radium | 250-347-9937

CHURCH OF JESUS CHRIST OF LATTER-DAY SAINTS

Worship Service, Sunday, 10 a.m. Relief Society, 11:15 a.m.

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

CHURCH OF CHRIST (Iglesia ni Cristo)

Worship Service: Sunday 9 a.m., Thursday 7:45 p.m. Chamber of Commerce (Lions Hall)

For inquiries: 250-688-1643 250-270-2208 or 250-688-0629

Love is in the air as evidenced by this pair of Canada geese that stop for a heart-shaped kiss while on a stroll in the Athalmer wetlands.

PHOTO LARRY HALVERSON

For more info about the church, you can Google online at incmedia.org or pasugo.com.ph