Columbia Valley Pioneer May 18, 2023

Photo by Steve Hubretch

Photos by Ryan Watmough

VALLEY NEWS New childcare facility breaks ground

Columbia Valley Pioneer staff

e burdening waitlist for childcare in Invermere is destined to get smaller thanks to the groundbreaking of a new childcare facility at Eileen Madson Primary School.

On May 10, members of School District No. 6, District of Invermere, Columbia Basin Trust (CBT), and Windermere Valley Child Care Society broke ground on the $8.6 million project funded by the federal/provincial government and $300,000 from CBT.

e 148-space facility will accommodate children ages 0 to 10, including 24 infant/toddler spaces, 100 pre-school, and 24 after-school spaces.

“We are aware of the extensive waitlists for child care in the Invermere and surrounding areas,” said school district superintendent Karen Shipka.” is facility will help to address some of those concerns for families.”

Shipka noted the board of education supported the hiring of a director of early learning and childcare last year, saying Crystal MacLeod has been working tire-

lessly to build strong partnerships with third-party providers such as Windermere Valley Child Care Society.

Board chair Amber Byklum thanked the above partners who made it all happen.

Lana Osborne-Paradis, board chair of the Windermere Valley Child Care Society, said they have been supporting families in the Columbia Valley since 1975 and are thrilled to continue this work. She noted the project will allow them to “continue delivering important childcare programs for the hardworking parents of the Columbia Valley.”

Osborne-Paradis said Windermere Valley manager Pat Miller and assistant manager Tiffany Traverse have been instrumental in this collaboration.

Columbia Basin Trust president and CEO Johnny Strilaeff said they recognize the significant impact that accessible childcare has on the growth of families and careers in Invermere. “ is much-needed facility will be a valuable addition to an already thriving community.”

Continued on page 9

Residents rally for rainbows

By Steve Hubrecht steve@columbiavalleypioneer.com

Rainbows are nothing if not resilient. Local residents — led by the David ompson Secondary School (DTSS) Gender Sexuality Alliance (GSA), students from J.A., Laird Elementary School and the Columbia Valley Pride (CV Pride) group — painted two rainbow crosswalks in the district last week – refreshing the one by J.A. Laird and painting a brand new one downtown.

e efforts left a multi-hued glow of goodwill that not even the intentional efforts of vandals could undo. After the students, Pride and other community members spent the entire day on Sunday, May 14 redoing the rainbow crosswalk by J.A. Laird, a vehicle burned out atop the rainbow some time that night, defacing the symbol of inclusivity with skid marks.

e response from Pride, students and other community members was swift and strong: there’s no place for that kind of behaviour.

“It was a beautiful day (on May 14), and I was moved to see just how much support this community has for youth . . . one of the youth said they feel it is important to come from a place that is proud of who they are, and they feel this is the case,” said Pride member Nadine Hale. In

terms of the skid marks, she added “we’re not going to stand for it. It’s completely unacceptable. Ninety nine point nine per cent of the community is deeply upset about this. e support we’ve had (since the skid marks) has been fantastic, and emphasizes that they (those who made the marks) really are just a small, outside group.”

Invermere Mayor Al Miller was out all day at the rainbow crosswalk painting on May 14 and told the Pioneer, “I’m frustrated. Invermere is a welcoming, inclusive community, so this (the skid marks) is malicious.” Miller added that as far as he’s concerned the rainbow crosswalks are a key part of the District of Invermere’s infrastructure.

Undeterred by the skid marks, community members rallied and were out in force again on the evening May 15 painting a new rainbow crosswalk across 12th Street on the eastern side of its intersection with 7th Avenue. e prime location smack in the middle of Invermere’s downtown is meant to bring greater awareness of, and hopefully empowerment to, the local 2LGBTQiA+ community.

“Seeing the crosswalks and being a part of painting inspires me and gives me hope for a bright future for Invermere’s queer community,” said DTSS GSA member Finn King.

A groundbreaking ceremony was held May 11 to herald a new childcare 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 School District No. 6.

Photo submitted

RCMP Report

Corporal Jeff Witzke Columbia Valley RCMP

During the past week, May 8 to 14, the Columbia Valley RCMP responded to 62 calls for service. e following is a summary of some of the files that our officers worked on.

On May 14, police responded to a downed paraglider near Lake Windermere. On scene, members were told there was a malfunction which made the non-powered paraglider descend at a high rate of speed, colliding with the embankment next to the railway tracks. e operator was transported to local hospital with minor injuries.

On May 13, RCMP received a phone call from a

stranded hiker in the Panorama area. e hiker was alone, had cell reception and had already been hiking for six hours and was unsure of his location. Search and rescue were dispatched and located the hiker who was brought back to safety.

e RCMP and Search and Rescue are reminding people heading into the backcountry this spring/summer to be prepared. Have a plan, notify people of those plans, have extra food and water along with extra clothing. Depending on conditions, Search and Rescue might not be able to respond immediately and there’s been circumstances in the past where people in need of rescuing have had to spend the night in the backcountry. Also, please be mindful that most areas do not have cell reception.

Lake Windermere Pulse Check

www.lakeambassadors.ca

Submitted by Lake Windermere Ambassadors, May 9, 2023

Average Water Temperature: 15C

Average Water Depth (m): 7.73

Average Turbidity (NTU): 2.68

Average D.O. (mg/L): 9.475

Average pH (H+): 8.17

We had a rainy and cloudy morning on the boat for our weekly sampling, but that didn’t stop us! Our team spotted a beaver near Windermere Creek. As the weather warms, remember to keep an eye out for all the exciting wildlife returning. We still have spots open to volunteers that would like to join us on the boat on Tuesdays for water sampling. To join please email Jacob at Intern@lakeambssadors.ca. anks to our sponsors: Columbia Basin Trust, Totem Charitable Foundation, BC Gaming, Dis-

trict 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.

Stewardship inspires her

e Pioneer is re-publishing a story that contained errors in last week’s edition regarding two achievement awards that Brisco resident Kat Hartwig received. e awards were not business or Indigenous related but reflected Hartwig’s work as an environmental and freshwater steward. e Pioneer apologizes for the error and the harm it may have caused to Hartwig, Living Lakes Canada, and our local Indigenous communities.

Kat Hartwig of Brisco is the recipient of two BC Achievement awards, which were presented to her during a formal ceremony held at Government House in Victoria on May 10.

As the founder and executive director of the Nelson-based water stewardship organization Living Lakes Canada, Hartwig is one of 20 individuals across the province to be recognized with a 2023 Community Award, and is the sole recipient of the distinguished Mitchell Award.

“I am grateful to be here, and it is a distinct privilege to speak on behalf of my fellow award recipients whose stories and achievements are both uplifting and inspiring,” said Hartwig in her address to an audience that included the Honourable Janet Austin, Lieutenant Governor of British Columbia. “I have been privileged enough to find a path of work in environmental and water stewardship. is work has been deeply rewarding despite the overwhelming sense of urgency to address the climate and the biodiversity crises we have put ourselves in.”

e annual BC Achievement Community Awards

recognize extraordinary British Columbians who build better, stronger and more resilient communities. e Mitchell Award of Distinction recognizes one individual in particular who demonstrates “an unwavering commitment to elevating people around them.” Hartwig’s lifelong work in environmental conservation, and her selfless leadership style that empowers others to lead and excel, was the rationale provided by the BC Achievement Foundation for singling out Hartwig as this year’s Mitchell Award designate.

Since founding Living Lakes Canada in 2010, Hartwig has impacted countless communities across the Columbia Basin and Canada. Under her leadership, Living Lakes Canada has created award-winning water stewardship programs, helped pilot new water monitoring technologies, developed a suite of new water monitoring frameworks to track climate impacts on freshwater sources, updated federal lake survey protocols, and played a role in guiding both provincial and federal policies around freshwater protection. roughout her paradigm-shifting approach to water management, Hartwig has tirelessly advocated for the inclusion and leadership of Indigenous voices and the valuing of Indigenous knowledge in water policy and science. In the Columbia Basin alone, partnerships with local First Nations have been established across all Living Lakes Canada programs offered in the region, from water data sharing agreements vis a vis the Columbia Basin Water Hub, to the selection of water monitoring sites, to helping fund water monitoring equipment.

Continued on page 9

The Ultimate Guide to Backyard BBQ

May 20 & 21

Indulge in an enjoyable and savory afternoon while benefiting from the combined expertise of two celebrated pitmasters Double Aces Backyard BBQ and Get Smoked BBQ have joined forces to offer a backyard BBQ course that will equip you with the skills to outshine your friends, neighbors, and even in-laws!

Get tickets - or just come & watch from the deck

Kat Hartwig, Executive Director of Living Lakes Canada, receives the 2023 Mitchell Award of Distinction from Walter Pela, Chair of the BC Achievement Foundation, and the Honourable Janet Austin, Lieutenant Governor of British Columbia. Hartwig also won the 2023 BC Achievement Community Award. Photo by LLC

Body cameras long overdue

We applaud the RCMP for field-testing body cameras ahead of the national rollout which is more than a year away.

For many people, it’s overdue.

While American law enforcement agencies are no stranger to this technology, Canada has fallen a little behind and needs to catch up.

ere’s no doubt that body-worn cameras are integral to enhancing public trust and accountability with the police, some of whom have brought disrepute to their profession, which has unfortunately tarnished the reputation of the majority.

It seems there is a cell phone on every corner waiting to record everybody’s actions, especially those of the police, almost with the hope of catching them being overzealous or using excessive force so they can post to social media.

Body cameras have many advantages in law enforcement. ey not only record important evidence, but they keep officers on the straight and narrow when they interact with the public during conflicts.

Don’t forget, every tense situation could be an officer’s last. is has sadly been proven by the deaths of several police officers in Canada over the past year. ese men and women never know if they will return to their families at the end of a shift. ey could walk into an ambush, respond to a deadly domestic call, or end up at the end of a knife during a mental wellness check. During these unpredictable crises, officers are pumped with adrenaline and must be prepared to act within seconds to save someone’s life or their own.

is is where body cameras can be very helpful. ey certainly could have shed more light on the tragic deaths of those officers. ree were “ambushed” in Ontario last week, with one sergeant being killed by gunfire. And in Burnaby last October, Cst. Shaelyn Yang died of stab wounds after checking on a homeless man in a tent.

In another Ontario case, prosecutors plan to use body camera evidence in the trial of two people accused in the death of rookie officer Cst. Greg Pierzchala, 28. He was gunned down when he checked on a vehicle in a ditch. at video footage could be the Crown’s best compelling evidence in the case.

We need to reiterate that body cameras are an essential tool to keep law enforcement officers on their best behaviour. Whether it’s excessive use of force or unconscious racism or bias, a body camera will tell all like a reliable witness.

Historical Lens Historical Lens

Kudos to Legion for donation

Cycling Without Age Invermere would like to thank the Royal Canadian legion Branch 71 for their generous donation of $2,500 to our program.

e Legion becomes one of an extensive list of local organizations that have helped us build and improve our service to seniors, less abled individuals as well as the community as a whole.

e money is earmarked for a purpose-built cabinet to safely store and charge our Lithium-Ion batteries. ere has been a lot of media coverage over the past year about fires caused by Lithium-Ion batteries. It seems most are caused by improper handling, storage or charging, and

many times involve poor quality aftermarket products. While we use only high-quality parts from very reputable suppliers, the cabinet adds a further level of safety to our program and ensures we are following best practices using industry leading edge technology. We would also like to thank Invermere Fire Department Deputy Chief Colin Matheson for his advice and assistance with this project. Now that spring is here, look for our awesome group of volunteers out there giving rides, creating smiles and memories once again. Give them a honk, thumbs up or a high five.

Implementing body cameras as a regular part of the uniform is a step in the right direction. ey offer a transparency that didn’t really exist before; a window that definitely needed cleaning.

Lyonel Doherty, Editor

Cycling Without Age Invermere

Royal Canadian Legion Branch 71 executives Ken Carlow (left) and Marius Hoofd (right) shake hands with Blaine Nester and Don Devlin after generously donating $2,500 to the Invermere Cycling Without Age program.

Photo submitted

Residents fed up with reeking lagoon

By Steve Hubrecht steve@columbiavalleypioneer.com

A pervasive stench wafted over parts of Invermere throughout the early part of May, creating a stink both literal and figurative among many residents.

e source of odour was the municipal sewage lagoons in Athalmer, and a group of residents fed up with the problem came to last week’s Invermere council meeting seeking answers to their questions, and hopefully a solution to the pungent issue.

“I am sure I am not the first resident to express my concerns and complaints, and certainly this is not the first time we have called asking questions about the odour, but we have yet to be given any satisfactory answers,” outlined Invermere resident Carol Pope at the Tuesday, May 9 meeting.

Pope and her husband have owned a home on 13th Avenue, above the public works yard in Athalmer (where the lagoons are) for more than 20 years. She noted that up until five or six years ago there was no smell issue at all, but over the past few years it has grown increasingly worse, and is “exceedingly bad this year.”

It is now “so putrid that we can no longer enjoy any outdoor time on our deck or patio. We are embarrassed to entertain guests as we never know when that horrible smell will come drifting up the bank. We are not even able to have our windows open at any time because the smell fills the house,” noted Pope.

She added that she’s heard complaints from residents living not just on 13th Avenue, but many different parts of Invermere, and that aside from quality of life, the issue has implications for property values.

Pope and other concerned residents expressed frustration at the many and varied responses they’ve received from district employees about the problem. “It’s almost comical . . .it does start to seem like just excuses,” said Pope.

Invermere director of public works and operations Angela MacLean explained that the district had just, that very morning, begun using a new natural product to address the odour.

e product (which, believe it or not, is called DAZZel sewer sweetener) is a blend of plant-based essential oils that work to reduce smell by binding and breaking down organic waste compounds.

“I’m hoping it will take effect shortly. It took awhile to get the product here, get it into the system and get the dosing right,” said MacLean.

Pope also expressed concerns about Invermere’s sewage system capacity, pointing out that other East Kootenay municipalities have left that particular problem for too long and as a result now have no choice but to implement very expensive solutions.

“We haven’t hit max capacity yet . . . it is something to plan for the future,” responded MacLean, later adding, “there are currently parts of our wastewater collection system that are stressed and are overflowing.”

Several of the concerned residents commended MacLean, contrasting her responses to them to the lack of answers they’d gotten previously. “When we hear something is being done, we feel good about it,” said Pope.

Invermere Mayor Al Miller conceded that communication could have been better, but added that the public works department is going through transition.

“Staffing tends to be a challenge, to find experienced

operators everywhere. Even (summer) students have been a challenge,” said MacLean, adding the district is looking to hire a public works staff member who, among other tasks, would deal with reporting and communications on such issues.

“Does the salary (for that position) match the education needed?” asked Pope.

“I’m not a human resources expert, I can’t accurately answer that,” replied MacLean.

Invermere resident Ray Vowels asked, “would you consider any of the gases (creating the smell) to be pathogenic?” MacLean replied no.

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File photo

Woman noted for achievements

Continued from page 5

In her former position as part of the leadership team for the conservation organization Wildsight, Hartwig was one of the initiators of the internationally renowned Jumbo Wild campaign to protect Jumbo Valley, a key grizzly bear and wildlife corridor located in the Purcell Mountain Range.

“Kat recognizes that global water challenges caused by climate change need to be addressed at a local community level. She’s a dedicated leader and change-maker on international, national and regional environmental advocacy issues, and a passionate and empowering role model for young people, particularly women, in the water sector,” said Living Lakes Canada team member, Claire Pollock-Hall.

Living Lakes Canada’s regional programs have tripled water monitoring in the region since 2021 in order to gather the data needed to help communities and the ecosystems they rely on adapt to a changing water cycle. Recognizing the Columbia Basin’s freshwater sources are

threatened by climate change (e.g. diminishing glaciers, record-breaking summer temperatures, longer dry periods), Hartwig and the Living Lakes Canada team are addressing the water data deficit identified in a series of reports since 2006.

Examples include the large-scale Columbia Basin Water Monitoring Framework project, which completed a round of East and West Kootenay public meetings earlier this year to gather local community water concerns; the High Elevation Monitoring program, which tracks climate impacts on remote creeks and lakes; and the Groundwater Program, which now monitors 32 observation wells across the Columbia Basin complementing the seven wells in the provincial groundwater network.

Salmo resident Gerry Nellestijn, founder of the Salmo Watershed Streamkeepers Society, was also recognized with a 2023 BC Achievement Community Award.

For more information on the BC Achievement awards, visit www.bcachievement.com.

More daycare spaces on way

Continued from page 3

Grace Lore, Minister of State for Child Care, said they are creating childcare spaces where they are needed the most, pointing to approximately 300 new spaces in Invermere and Kimberley.

“We know childcare is life-changing for families, which is why we are partnering with the Rocky Mountain school district and others (to build

affordable and accessible child care).”

Karina Gould, Minister of Families, Children and Social Development, stated that these inclusive facilities “give children across Canada the best possible start in life.”

She told the Pioneer that the new childcare spaces in Invermere will definitely make a difference to local families struggling to find them, noting she has heard from parents who

are having a hard time finding spaces. She said while the government has significantly reduced childcare fees (by an average of 50 per cent), there is no moving forward unless spaces are available; that’s why the recent announcement in Invermere is so important, she stressed.

Gould noted their plan is to increase childcare spaces in Canada by 250,000 in 2025-26.

e Honourable Janet Austin, Lieutenant Governor of British Columbia (right) presents Kat Hartwig, Executive Director of Living Lakes Canada, with a 2023 BC Achievement Community Award at Government House in Victoria.

Photo by LLC

Thursday, May 18

• 9:15 a.m.: StrongStar t/C AP-C at Edgewater Elementar y on Tuesdays and Thursdays Join this free drop -in program; ages 0 to 5 + caregivers

• 10 a.m.: Parent & Tot Connec t at Frater Landing Parents & ages 0-6 are invited to this FREE drop -in program. Tuesdays & Thursdays.

• 10 a.m.-noon: Pickleball Club drop -in play

• 10:15 a.m.: Tech Time at the Invermere Public Librar y Come for one - onone tech help drop -ins.

• 10:30 a.m.: Senior's Fitness at the Columbia Valley Centre, $2 drop -in.

• 12- 1 p.m.: Seniors' Lunch at the Legion, to reser ve call Jan: 250-3421196

• 2- 3 p.m.: Senior's Tea at the Invermere Public Librar y All community members welcome to stop by the librar y for a cup of tea and a chat! Ever y 2nd & 4th Thursday of the month.

2 p.m.: Tech Time at the Radium Public Librar y Come for one - on- one tech help – bring your device

• 3 p.m.: FREE Youth Drop -In Fun at the Summit Youth Centre Hub Grade 7-12 come to meet, hang out and enjoy time with friends

• 6:30 p.m.: Invermere Pickleball League play

• 6:45 p.m.: Texas Hold 'Em Poker Tournament at the Invermere Legion ever y Thursday for members and guests $30 buy-in.

• 7:30 p.m.: Trivia Night at the Windermere Whitehouse Pub, 3 person, teams of more than 6 will be split into two groups

Friday, May 19

• 9:15 a.m.: Strong Star t Eileen Madson. Ever y Monday and Friday; Ever y 1st and 3rd Wednesday For children 0- 5 and caregivers!

• 10 a.m.-noon: Pickleball Club drop -in play

• 10:30 a.m.: Family Stor ytime at the Invermere Public Librar y Join us at the librar y each week for stories, songs and a crafts!

• 1 p.m.: FREE Youth Drop -In Fun at the Summit Youth Centre Hub For grades 7-12, come meet, hang out and enjoy some great times with your friends

• 3 p.m- close: Wings & Things at the Legion, pub grub done right!

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

• 6:30 -8:30 p.m: Dynamic Archer y Speed Shooting Come tr y Archer y at Luxor Corrals Call 250-347-9048 to register

7 p.m. - 9 p.m.: Drop -In Adult Parkour Unit 6, 1340 Industrial Road #3. Adults are invited to drop -in for $20! Ever y 2nd Friday

• 9 p.m.: K araoke Windermere Whitehouse Pub Ages 19+

Saturday, May 20

✰ May 20-21: The Ultimate Guide to Backyard BBQ: The Fairmont Chronicles Limited tickets available, Call 250-345-6070. Learn from 2 award winning pitmasters

10 a.m.-noon: Pickleball Club drop -in play

• 10:30 a.m.: LEGO/D uplo Club at the Invermere Public Librar y We'll have Lego, Duplo, big blocks and more out to play with on Saturday mornings!

10:30 a.m.: Pokemon Club at Main Street Fun & Games for ages 7+, Reading proficienc y required

• 3 p.m. - 11:59 p.m.: Wings & Things, Meat Draw & 50/50 at the Legion, pub grub done right!

Sunday, May 21

• 10a.m.: Indoor Pickleball at the Invermere Curling Club

• 11 a.m -2 p.m.: Toast & (music) Jam at the Village Social, Canal Flats Bring your own instrument, join the jam or come enjoy live music

• 2 p.m.: Cards, Cribbage and Dar ts Come to the Invermere Legion and have some fun! Members and guests welcome

• 2 p.m.: Invermere Pickleball open play

3 p.m. - midnight: Wings & Things at the Invermere Legion, pub grub done right!

Tuesday, May 23

• 9 a.m.: StrongStar t/C AP- C at Edgewater Elementar y Tuesdays and Thursdays, 9 - 11:30 am Join this free, drop -in program for children ages 0 to 5 and their caregivers

• 10 a.m.: Parent & Tot Connec t at Frater Landing Parents and their young children (ages 0-6) are invited to this FREE drop -in program!

• 10 a.m.-noon: Pickleball Club drop -in play

• 10:30 a.m.: Seniors Fitness Columbia Valley Centre on Tuesdays, $2 drop -in.

• 3 p.m.: FREE Youth Drop -In Fun at Summit Youth Centre Hub For grades 7-12, come hang out and enjoy some great times with your friends. FREE fun!

• 6:30 p.m.: Pickleball Club Skills and Drills

• 7 p.m.: 19+ Games Night Ullr Bar, $5/card Prizes and giveaways weekly

Wednesday, May 24

• 9 a.m. - 11 a.m.: StrongStar t Canal Flats Join this free, drop -in program for kids 0-5 and their caregivers Songs, stories, play centers, crafts, snacks, and more!

•

7 p.m.: Live Music at Horsethief Creek Pub & Eater y Accompanied minors are permitted No cover

Monday, May 22

9:15 a.m.: StrongStar t at Eileen Madson. Ever y Monday and Friday, ever y 1st and 3rd Wednesday for children 0-5 and their caregivers!

• 10 a.m Senior's Yoga at the Columbia Valley Centre $2 drop in, open to all seniors

• 10:00 a.m.-noon: Pickleball Club drop -in play

• 3 p.m.: Youth Drop -In at The Edge in Edgewater Youth grades 4-8 are invited to drop -in for fun with the Summit Youth Hub

• 4 p.m.: FREE Youth Drop-In Fun: LGBTQ+ Summit Youth Centre Hub. For grades of 7-12, come to meet, hang out and enjoy your friends FREE fun! Mondays are for LGBTQ+ and allies!

• 5 p.m.: Industr y Night at the White House Pub in Windermere. Free pool + cheap drinks for resor t and restaurant staff

• 6:30 p.m.: Pickleball Club open play

• 6:30 p.m.: Poker (Chip up for Charity) at the Station Pub. Butter hosts poker night for a $20 buy-in.

• 6:30 p.m - 8:30 p.m.: Dynamic Archer y Speed Shooting Come tr y your hand at Archer y at Luxor Corrals Call 250-347-9048 to register

• 9:15 a.m. -11:45 a.m.: StrongStar t Ever y Monday & Friday Ever y 1st & 3rd Wednesday

• 10 a.m.: Parent & Tot Connec t Canal Flats Village Office Parents kids (ages 0-6) are invited to this FREE drop -in program!

• 10 a.m. - 11 a.m.: Seniors Yoga at the Columbia Valley Centre on Mondays & Wednesdays, $2 drop -in.

• 1 p.m.: Tennis Club at Kinsmen Beach Cour ts

• 3 p.m.: Youth Drop -In at The Edge Edgewater youth grades 4-8 can drop -in with the Summit Youth Hub at The Edge 3-8 p.m.

• 6 p.m. - 9 p.m.: Wednesday Dinners. Join us for dinner at the Legion. Members and guests welcome! Members enjoy a 10% discount!

• 6:30 p.m. Meat Draw and 50/50 at the Invermere Legion. Members and guests welcome

• 7 p.m.: Trivia Night at the Station Pub in Invermere! $5/player Max. 6 players per team.

• 8 p.m.: Live Music: James Rose & Friends Ullr Bar Ever y Wednesday at ULLR BAR

OU T O F O F F I C E

Recognition of 2023 Economic Development Week

The international event highlighted local effor ts to increase the quality of life in ever y community

Submitted by Columbia Valley Community Economic Development:

May 8 to May 12, 2023 was Economic Development Week Created in 2016 by International Economic Development Council (IEDC), the largest international professional trade association for economic developers, Economic Development Week aims to increase awareness for local programs that create jobs, advance career development oppor tunities, and improve the quality of life in communities everywhere

During this week, communities across Nor th America celebrated and recognized the contributions made by professional economic developers to create more economically vibrant and livable communities “As local and regional economies evolve, the role of economic developers and development organizations are crucial in energizing, preparing, and promoting local economic growth,” says IEDC President & CEO Nathan Ohle “The 2023 Economic Development Week recognizes, distinguishes, and shows appreciation for the innovation and leadership of our community leaders building an equitable, sustainable, resilient, and inclusive future ”

The Columbia Valley Community Economic Development contract is held by the Columbia Valley Chamber of Commerce and is service provided by the

Regional District of East Kootenay As an organization, our mission is to connect Columbia Valley communities by working with community par tners, existing and prospective businesses, to build a diverse and resilient economy

We recognize that small businesses are the backbone of our community, and as such, we provide a variety of resources and services to suppor t their success We offer workshops and training sessions on topics ranging from marketing to financial management, as well as one-on-one consultations with business advisors

Our organization is par ticularly attuned to the needs of solo-preneurs, which make up 80% of the registered businesses in the Columbia Valley We understand the unique challenges faced by individuals running a business on their own and strive to offer tailored suppor t and assistance to these entrepreneurs Since 2016, over 150 new businesses have registered in the Columbia Valley

The entrepreneurial spirit of small rural towns like those found in the Columbia Valley is truly remarkable We are proud to suppor t and be a par t of this community of hardworking and innovative individuals who are driving economic growth and creating oppor tunities for themselves and their fellow residents

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Paul Glassford

Double Truck May 18 12 x 13.92

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Half an acre building lot overlooking Lake Windermere, with beach access across the street, this proposed subdivision lot is perfect for a cabin tucked away in the trees fantastic views of the lake and mountains.

Young cyclists on right track at rodeo

Students at Eileen Madson Primary (EMP) School held their annual Bike Rodeo on Friday, May 12. Young cyclists wheeled their way through figure-eights, curvy pylon courses, a human-and-pool-noodle mock traffic light, a tire pumpup and a bicycle inspection station.

Photos by Steve and Jenny Hubrecht

Lower Kootenay Band Pow Wow coming up

By Julia Magsombol Local Journalism Initiative julia@columbiavalleypioneer.com

Whenever Lisa ree Feathers thinks about Pow Wow celebrations, she realizes how resilient Aboriginal people are since overcoming so many challenges over thousands of years of living.

upcoming (May 20-21) Pow Wow defined the event as a gathering and celebration where First Nations sing, dance, play drums, and honour their culture and ancestry.

"So whether you are First Nations or not, in regalia or not — everybody's welcome to dance. It's a celebration for all," ree Feathers said.

She explained that the first Pow Wow

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Radium Transfer Sta tion

Informa tional Open House

Residents of Area G and the Village of Radium are invited to an Informational Open House regarding the new Radium Transfer Station, which will be under construc tion later this year

Tuesday, May 30 | 5pm – 7pm

Radium Communit y Centre – 4863 Stanley Street, Radium Hot Springs

The Open House will be an informal, drop -in format where people can view the proposed site plan, learn more about the many new rec ycling ser vices that will be offered at the site, talk to staff and have their questions answered

For more information, visit engage.rdek.bc.c a or call the RDEK .

was held in 1991 at the Lower Kootenay Band complex in the Yaqan Nukiy community, where people wanted to celebrate the completion of the building.

"It was a really big accomplishment to have…. a really nice big building that would be available for many different events. We have just continued that celebration every year during the same time,” ree Feathers explained. “ ere was a lot of laughter at the very first Pow Wow, and that's what we want in our community.”

ree Feathers shared that she had attended every Pow Wow and was quite young when she took part in the first one. Now, after almost 30 years, she is the chair of the event and is proud of how much it has grown.

e Pow Wow banner she sent out says, “Celebrating 30 years of Resilience.”

When asked what it means, ree Feathers explained this is the theme of this year’s celebration.

e event was planned for 2020, but COVID happened, and they were not allowed to gather. ree Feathers described how they lost some people in their nation because of COVID.

"But we're still here," ree Feathers stated.

It's not only COVID that represents this theme of resilience. ree Feathers also highlighted the resilience of Indigenous people throughout the years. Despite racism, residential schools, substance abuse and colonialism, they are "still here today, and [they're] still as strong as ever."

ree Feathers is so happy for the chance to come back together and celebrate.

e Pow Wow will include drummers playing different songs, and a lot of people will showcase their culture through singing and dancing. And of course, there will be a big feast for everyone.

ree Feathers said organizing a Pow Wow takes a lot of time, but it is a fun experience and worth every minute.

“I just really hope that we never lose it. I just want to continue forever, for as long as we can possibly have it."

e Pow Wow will be held at 830 Simon Road in Creston. ere is no cost to attend. For more information, contact ree Feathers at 250-977-5749 or visit www.facebook.com/yaqan.nukiy

e chair of Lower Kootenay Band’s

is image represents the first Pow Wow held in 1991. is year’s Pow Wow will be held at 830 Simon Road in Creston on May 20-21.

Photo submitted

Funds committed to housing initiatives

By Steve Hubrecht steve@columbiavalleypioneer.com

e Columbia Valley Tourism Marketing Society (CVTMS) and the Invermere-Panorama Destination Marketing Organization (DMO) recently announced that, starting next year, half of the region’s online accommodations platform (OAP) tax revenue will go to housing initiatives in the valley.

e OAP funds, which are also known as the short-term rental (STR) tax, are collected by the provincial government on all legally run and registered STR operations, such as those on Airbnb and VRBO. e province gives the OAP money back to the regions and municipalities it is collected from, often through those areas’ destination marketing organizations, with the stipulation that it be spent on tourism programs, marketing and projects. A few years ago, changes in regulations allowed the money to also be spent on affordable housing initiatives.

And earlier this spring, that’s exactly what the CVTMS and Invermere-Pan-

orama DMO collectively decided to do, effective February 2024, when the organizations will funnel 50 per cent of their OAP funds to housing.

CVTMS executive director Jessica Fairhart explained that this funding underscores how tourism (and the non-resident spending it brings in) is an economic driver in the Columbia Valley, both directly and indirectly.

“It’s great we’re able to support housing initiatives in the Columbia Valley. e housing issue is not unique to our area, but it certainly does affect the Columbia Valley. It affects residents, and it affects employment, which in turn affects the tourism industry,” Fairhart told the Pioneer

at 50 per cent will likely amount to about $50,000 a year, which Fairhart noted is “a significant amount” when it comes to affordable housing initiatives.

Invermere Mayor Al Miller said the lack of affordable housing in the Columbia Valley negatively impacts all communities, as well as tourism-oriented businesses and operations, and that conse-

quently the District of Invermere supports the CVTMS and Invermere-Panorama DMO’s decision.

“Visitors from near and far visit the Columbia Valley to find more of themselves and experience our natural and breathtaking experiences. As residents of

Artym Gallery hosts show

Submitted advertorial

Back by popular demand, Angela Morgan and Bayot Heer are coming to the Artym Gallery for the May long weekend. is is a perfect combination for an exhibition. Angela’s paintings are delightful and colourful, an ideal match with Bayot’s dazzling, engineered jewellery.

Join us Saturday, May 20 with the artists in attendance between 10 a.m. and 2 p.m.

When asked about what we will be seeing from the artists, Bayot replied “Late last year I had the good fortune to learn hands-on the art of chain weaving, a skill I had been desiring to acquire for many years.”

e outcome definitely did not disappoint, seeing and feeling these hand-woven chains after hours of patiently looping a single wire in a rhythmic pattern to its final length. ese sensuously supple neck pieces are available in Sterling silver and 18 karat gold. “I can create these chains in any length and also as a bracelet that fits your size. Continuing on the theme of handmade, the new collection is predominantly hand fabricated. Designing with this process in mind I can create more

individualistic pieces with delicate and ergonomic lines that fit your hand comfortably, such as rings. My most important point for inspiration is a beautiful cut gemstone that shapes the design of every piece I create.”

Angela’s adds: “As with a night out with the girls we like to finish with ‘just a splash’ of bubbly; that is also true in my paintings - just a splash more colour is always running through my head … another dot of pink or just one more stroke of teal should do it! Colour, movement and joy all go together and this spring show should brighten the walls - all the colours of the wheel - from bold backgrounds to maybe a little bit of mayhem! Fields of flowers, orchestrating picnics and dressing to impress . . . I have swim suits to tiaras and tire tubes to carousel to showcase. I’ve used every colour in that deluxe package of crayons I coveted when I was six years old! And speaking of colour, let’s not forget jewel tones - I love being paired with Bayot!”

Well, we can’t wait to see what they have created. If you can’t make it to the show in person, please view online at www.artymgallery.com

the region, we are incredibly fortunate to call the Valley home, and this investment in our community represents the ongoing commitment of the tourism industry as an economic contributor and community partner moving forward,” said Fairhart.

Saturday, May 20 with Angela & Bayot in attendance from 10 am – 2 pm

Exhibition continues until May 26

Half of the region’s online accommodations platform (OAP) tax revenue will go to housing initiatives in the Columbia Valley. Photo by Ryan Watmough

O Box 340, 4836 Radium Blvd, Radium Hot Springs, B C , 250-347-6455

Accessibility Committee

The Village of Radium Hot Springs is recruiting people with lived and learned accessibility experience to join our Accessibility Committee that has been created in suppor t of the Accessible BC Act We are also looking for members who represent the diversity of British Columbia, including those who are Indigenous. Committee members will work together to:

• Identify, prevent and eliminate barriers to accessibility and inclusion for people with disabilities;

• Contribute to development of an Accessibility Plan for our organization

To meet legislated deadlines, the Committee will meet in-person, as required, until the Accessibility Plan is adopted by Council later this year Following adoption of the Plan, meetings will be as needed This is a 3-year term, and is a voluntar y position, with no monetar y compensation.

For more information, or to receive an application form, please visit the Village website at www radiumhotsprings ca, or contact Jill Logan, Corporate Officer, at corporate@radiumhotsprings ca, p 250-347-6455 ext 4, by May 29th, 2023

Lake report raises concerns about cyanobacteria

By Steve Hubrecht steve@columbiavalleypioneer.com

A report on recreational impact and sediment quality in Lake Windermere showed elevated levels of arsenic, copper and lead in the lake, as well as very high densities of an algal-bloom forming and potentially toxic phytoplankton cyanobacteria at Kinsmen Beach.

e report was conducted in 2022 by environmental consultants Ecoscape Ltd. and was commissioned by the Lake Windermere Ambassadors. It was completed earlier this year and made public by the Ambassadors last week, during the Tuesday, May 9 Invermere council meeting.

e study was meant to assess the impact of recreation on environmental values (such as habitat disruption and lakeshore erosion), on sediment quality and suspension; and on drinking water (as plumes containing contaminants can travel from disturbed areas to drinking water intakes on the lake).

“Wake turbulence is particularly concerning given the extensive shallow areas, or littoral zone, of Lake Windermere. Fine organic and silty sediments accumulated on these shallows are easily re-suspended with wake turbulence from prop wash, which can be exacerbated when large ballasts are present in boats to create larger wakes,” read the report.

Part of the study included taking measurements at nine sites throughout the lake: by the Athalmer boat launch; at Kinsmen Beach; at a ‘deep site’ at the deepest point of the lake (roughly halfway between Windermere and Invermere); along the northern part of the lake’s

western shore; by each of three marinas on the eastern side of the lake; by Lake Windermere Provincial Park; and at a control site in the middle of the far south end of the lake.

Sediments cores taken during these measurements found elevated arsenic, copper and lead, to a level exceeding the 80 per cent of maximum allowable concentration warning threshold.

“Of these, only arsenic exceeded the B.C. sediment quality guideline...with seven of the nine sites exceeding the guideline by as much as double the deep and control sites,” read the report.

Phytoplankton densities were also measured. ey were moderate in the southern half of the lake, but very high at the two northernmost sites (the Athalmer boat launch and Kinsmen Beach). e phytoplankton was predominately Anacystis sp — a type of cyanobacteria that it potentially toxic and is associated with algal blooms.

“ e beach sample contained 21,410 cells per millilitre of cyanobacteria, a concerning result for a popular swimming area. While this is unlikely to lead to acute cyanotoxicity, chronic low dose exposure cannot be ruled out,” read the report.

e study also developed a method of assessing boat density, with recommendations for a full year of data collection to determine which parts of the lakes see the most recreational use. Once that is complete, the reports outlines that recommendations can be made on which are the most appropriate areas of the for recreational use.

Continued on page 24

Experience Winderberry Garden Centre this long weekend!

A recent report shows Lake Windermere has elevated levels of arsenic, copper and lead and, at Kinsmen Beach, has high densities of algal-blooming causing and potentially toxic cyanobacteria.

Photo by Ryan Watmough

Local teacher stars in survival reality show

By Steve Hubrecht steve@columbiavalleypioneer.com

A local man is set to feature in a major continent-wide television program next month.

Last fall David ompson Secondary School (DTSS) outdoor education teacher Alan Tenta went from teaching students outdoor survival skills such as shelter building and fire lighting to actually using these techniques to survive on this own in remote northern Saskatchewan as a contestant on the 10th season of the History Channel’s popular survival reality show ‘Alone’.

e filming took place last year, but the show is only now set to air this coming summer. Valley viewers who love the outdoors, who were once taught at DTSS by Tenta, or who are just plain curious to see a local fellow test his mettle in the wilds can tune in to the season 10 premiere on ursday, June 8 at 8 p.m. MST.

Each season of the hit show stars 10 people. e 10 are dropped off, each by themselves, in a remote wilderness location during the fall. ey are allowed to bring just 10 items with them, aside from the clothes they are wearing. e contestants then try to survive, alone, for as long as possible.

ey have no contact with other humans, aside from medical checkups (which become more frequent as the contestant progresses). Contestants are given cameras, which they keep on constantly. Television producers edit and compile the footage to create the show. Participants can choose to ‘tap out’ (i.e. voluntarily leave) at any time, and they can be “pulled out” for failing a medical checkup. ey spend most of their time building shelters, and trying to procure food, in order to last as long as possible.

e winner is the contestant who lasts the longest, and gets $500,000 for their troubles.

Past seasons have seen participants last anywhere from six hours to 100 days in locations ranging from Patagonia to Vancouver Island, the Arctic, northeastern Labrador and northern Mongolia.

Tenta is a Kootenay boy through and through, having grown up in Fruitvale (near Trail). ere he developed a love of fishing (starting on the small creek below his house), hunting and archery, and even today his favourite outdoor pursuits are fly fishing and bow hunting. at said, he does just about everything else you can do outdoors in the Columbia Valley: hiking, camping, mountain biking, rock climbing, cross country skiing and more.

“When I’m outside, it’s my solace. It’s where I feel the most alive. My senses just ignite,” Tenta told the Pioneer

For as long as he’s been heading outdoors, he’s been comfortable being alone there. In fact, he enjoys the solitude. “I really like just sitting and watching my surroundings. I find it extremely relaxing

. . . there’s a peace I get from it,” he said.

After graduating teacher’s college at the University of British Columbia (UBC), Tenta and his wife Lisa (who is a vice-principal at DTSS) worked in Fort Nelson, in northern B.C, before settling in the Columbia Valley in 2010, along with their son Davis and daughter Mackenzie. Tenta’s family also enjoys the outdoors, just not in quite the same solo-immersion-in-wilderness way that he does.

After several years teaching English, social studies and physical education in the valley, Tenta went to the local school board and proposed adding an outdoor education class at DTSS, something the school did not have at the time. e board agreed, and the class began, with Tenta teaching in 2016. Students in the class learn how to tie flies, how to fly fish, ice fish, cross country ski, rock climb, mountain bike, canoe, build shelters, start fires, track animals, identify birds, and are taught survival skills among other things.

One day, in February 2022, the class was doing knife carving woodwork. Tenta had ‘Alone’ playing on a screen in the background, since it fit well with the class curriculum. “ ey said, ‘Mr. Tenta, you should apply (to be on the show)’,” he recalled.

Tenta checked out the possibility. He found a casting call for season 10, and in response to it, he fired off a quick email. His message was only four or five sentences long, and he didn’t expect much to come from it. But he got a reply, with an application form.

He sent that back, and then got another response. For the next few months he then proceeded through round after round of applications. More than 40,000 people applied to be on season 10, and so the History Channel’s process of whittling those down to 10 contestants was, understandably, quite lengthy. Finally, in July 2022, Tenta found out he would be on the show.

“I never even expected to make it as far as I did through the application process,” said Tenta, adding that, consequently, upon learning he would actually be on the show, “I was so elated. It’s incredible. One of the 10 most exciting moments of my life.”

Tenta is bound to secrecy about what happens during the show, and could only tell the Pioneer that when he set off for filming last year, he was very much looking forward to the mental and physical challenges that lay ahead.

Residents with long memories will recall that Tenta is in fact the second Columbia Valley resident to appear on ‘Alone.’

Canal Flats resident and outdoorsman Greg Ovens appeared on season 3, which was filmed in Patagonia and which aired in late 2016 and early 2017. Ovens lasted 51 days before tapping out due to hypothermia. ose 51 days were good enough for Ovens to end in a tie for sixth place, out of the 10 contestants.

David ompson Secondary School outdoor education teacher Alan Tenta will appear on season 10 of the History Channel’s survival reality television show ‘Alone’ on ursday, June 8 at 8 p.m. MST. Images courtesy of Brendan George Ko / e HISTORY Channel

Upcoming FireSmar t™ Events

E D G E WAT E R – Communit y Debris Bin

May 26 – June 9 | Edgewater

This goal of this event is to give residents in the Edgewater area a more convenient place to dispose of yard waste as the usual spring clean-up happens The bin will accept materials up to 8 inches in diameter and be left out for t wo weeks so that residents are able to drop debris off on a schedule that works best for them. The green bin will be loca ted in the parking lot on Sinclair Street, southeast of the post office

More info: RDEK Local FireSmar t Representative: Thomas Dobbin at 250-342-6214 or tdobbin@rdek.bc.c a

W I N D E R B E R R Y / E D I B L E A C R E S – FireSmar t Landscaping Event

May 28, 12:00 PM |

Winderberr y/Edible Acres,1681 Hw y

93/95

FireSmar t BC Landscape Exper t, Karla Hoffman, will be making a presentation on FireSmar t landscaping and gardening. She has designed, installed, and maintained landscapes – from small residential sites, to commercial, universit y, and municipal grounds and will offer some insight on where to star t when beginning your FireSmar t gardening and landscaping journey

More info: RDEK Local FireSmar t Representative: Thomas Dobbin at 250-342-6214 or tdobbin@rdek.bc.c a

B A LTA C – Communit y Chipping Event

May 29 – June 12 | Baltac

Residents are encouraged to use this oppor tunit y to dispose of tree and shrub materials from spring clean-up Materials are to be placed on the road at the end of your driveway and they will be picked up for chipping on June 13.

More info: RDEK Local FireSmar t Representative: Thomas Dobbin at 250-342-6214 or tdobbin@rdek.bc.c a

CO LU M E R E PA R K – Communit y Chipping Event

May 29 (material collec tion day) | Columere

This is the 6th annual wildfire risk reduc tion in Columere Material will be collec ted May 29.

More info: FireSmar t Neighbourhood Champion: Ken Joyce at columerefiresmar t@gmail.com

RDEK Local FireSmar t Representative: Thomas Dobbin at 250-342-6214 or tdobbin@rdek.bc.c a

I N D I A N B E A C H E S TAT E S – Communit y Work Bee & Chipping Event

June 3, 9:00 AM – 2:00 PM | Indian Beach Estates

Volunteers and neighbours will be working together to remove flammable vegetation from their neighbourhood in order to increase their wildfire resilienc y The communit y will meet at the IBE Pump House to star t the day Please bring gloves and safet y glasses A representative from the East Kootenay FireSmar t Program will be in attendance

More info: FireSmar t Neighborhood Champion: John Conley at 403-771-6911 Local FireSmar t Representative: Yvan K athriner at 250-919-8567

E A S T KO O T E N AY – RDEK Agricultural Wildfire Preparedness Forum

June 3, 9:30 AM – 3:00 PM | Wasa Hotel – For

t Steele Heritage Town

The East Kootenay FireSmar t program in collaboration the Kootenay Livestock Association will be hosting the RDEK Agricultural Wildfire Preparedness Forum, focusing on emergenc y preparedness for wildfire events as it relates to farms and ranches. The day will include guest speakers, door prizes, demonstrations, testimonials, as well as discussion on wildfire risk mitigation, animal-related emergencies, and suppor t systems available Lunch and refreshments to be provided Registra tion required by 12:00 pm on May 31 (RSVP to kla@kootenaylivestock.ca).

More info: Kootenay Livestock Association: Tanya Molle at kla@kootenaylivestock.c a

Local FireSmar t Representative: Carla Hayday at rocky wildfireresilience@gmail.com

Indigenous learning experience a hit

By Julia Magsombol Local Journalism Initiative julia@columbiavalleypioneer.com

People say that knowledge is power, but it can also tell you the truth — and that's what Columbia Basin Environmental Education Network (CBEEN) offers: the truth about Indigenous reconciliation.

CBEEN had a successful “Four Seasons of Reconciliation,” a learning challenge and experience of Indigenous knowledge and perspective that ran for months. It started October 2022 and will end this June.

"Almost 4,000 people participated in the first year. It was crazy," said Duncan Whittick, the Executive Director of CBEEN. "But it was also exciting."

Jenna Jasek, the District Vice-Principal for Indigenous Learning and Equity, said she "wanted to provide a platform" for people to "share their stories" when

she and Whittick decided to make this learning experience.

Whittick and Jasek have been working together since 2018. eir work aims to encourage and empower people, including themselves, to "truth and reconciliation." us, the Four Seasons of Reconciliation was created.

"We have lots of meetings. We always have ideas. Whittick brings them to fruition, and it just grows from there," Jasek explained.

Whittick and Jasek did a tryout on this learning last year, and it was successful.

e learning is a partnership with Rocky Mountain School District 6, the First Nations University of Canada, and Reconciliation Education.

Whittick said that people who register in this learning experience can learn more about the history, treaties, and what Indigenous peoples have gone through.

He believes that a day is not enough to learn these things, but it "needs to be a continuous learning," which is why the lesson ran for months.

During the learning process, participants need to complete an online module. ey also have the opportunity to gather virtually with Indigenous leaders to learn more about truth and reconciliation. is runs for an hour a month, and at the end of the course, a certification of completion from the First Nations University of Canada will be offered.

e module contains different lectures on colonial history, racism, treaties, residential schools, reconciliation, restitution, and more. Participants need to work on this module for 20 to 30 minutes per month.

Jasek explained that she's trying to get back the culture that was taken away from her, a culture that she didn't get to learn. She hopes to "grow more opportunities to

learn about Indigenous ways of knowing and being."

“We all have our own stories, and they all need to be honoured and respected," Jasek said.

rough all of this, Whittick and Jasek feel validation. ey said there was so much positive feedback from people, which shows that what they're doing is a must for the community.

Whittick described this learning as "life-long." He believes that to truly move towards truth and reconciliation, through this course, people need to "be inspired and empowered, and make this [learning] part of their lives."

Registration for the 2023-2024 learning experience is now open. For more information, visit https://outdoorlearningstore.com/4-seasons/

To read about past learning experiences, visit https://cbeen.ca/every-child-matters-learning-challenge/

Jenna Jasek and family hold up an “Every Child Matters” banner in the beautiful Columbia Valley. CBEEN had a successful “Four Seasons of Reconciliation,” a learning challenge and experience of Indigenous knowledge and perspectives.

Photo submitted

P IONEER C LASSIFIEDS

• Phone: 250-341-6299

• Fax: 1-855-377-1312

• Email: info@columbiavalleypioneer.com

• Web: www.columbiavalleypioneer.com

ANNOUNCEMENT CHEERS WITHOUT TEARS HELP WANTED CHEERS WITHOUT TEARS

Al-Anon Are you concerned about or affec ted by someone else’s drinking? 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 conic t 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 Ser vice 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

Wednesdays 5:30-6:30 p.m. at the BC Ser vice Building, South End. 624-4th St. Invermere.

COMING EVENTS

The 12th Annual STEAMBOAT MOUNTAIN MUSIC FESTIVAL LAUNCH PARTY

Edgewater Legion

6:00 pm on Friday, May 26th

Enjoy the Legion’s Famous Wing Night and Cash Bar

Local Music Jam

Early Bird Festival Ticket - $25

Cheers to Constable Brent Ayers for all you do for this communit y Your willingness to help, your care and concern are so appreciated. It's people like you that give the RCMP a good name You are awesome!

Cheers to EMP BIKE Rodeo!

Thank you to Chereesa and the other parent volunteers, RCMP Members, and Lakeside Bike Co. The obstacle course was fun and informative and the free tune ups were much appreciated!

Cheers to Linda B at Home Hardware Always a smile (even when she is aching ) The most helpful in store person in the valley

Cheers to S andra B. for sharing your seeds with me. Too bad I missed out on getting your plant pots This gal needs all the help I can get Your kindness and generosit y is appreciated

Cheers to Ute at FDX for your care and concern about my well being during a difficult situation You are ver y kind!

Warm CHEERS to Alana, Monique & Sophie at Radium Canada Post (and anyone else working there) They are always so cheer ful, helpful & they listen to me and others with a kind ear They have a ver y difficult, but ver y impor tant job, & we, the people of Radium appreciate them

Thousands of cheers to Pam Mar tin and her crew for protec ting the Radium Bighorn sheep

LISTINGS NEEDED!

I WA NT TO SELL YOUR HOUSE!

WHY LIST WITH GERRY?

✔ Website/Social Media

✔ 3D Tour, YouTube, Drone

✔ Responsive, Local, Expert LIST WITH GERRY: FOR RESULTS!

*Not intended to solicit those already working with an agent.

BUYING OR SELLING CALL 250-341-1202 gerrytaft.ca Personal Real Estate Corporation

Rockies West Realty Independently owned and operated

Cheers to Columbia Valley Pride for their continued hard work and dedication to making the valley a better place for all!

Cheers to Lyonel Doher t y for his May 11 Perspec tive ar ticle, We owe it to the vic tims As a sur vivor of woman abuse now suppor ting other women, I know the call for more accountabilit y in our justice system is accurate and urgent I implore our politicians to ac tion!

Cheers to the Fairmont Hot Springs Resor t for organizing a fantastic Mother's Day Walk in suppor t of Invermere Women's Shelter It was well organized, great staff and lots of FUN Cheers to the sponsors and businesses that suppor ted this event!

PASSION FOR CANNABIS?

In front of Canadian Tire is accepting resumes

We are look ing for a great individual to join our team as a

B U D T E N D E R

The successful applicant will:

• Assist store management and work as a team with staff

• Per form all duties within the store, receiving, cash and customer ser vice

• Work quickly and efficiently with attention to detail

• Be able to work weekends

• Be available to work days or evenings

• Take pride in great customer ser vice - knowledge of Cannabis produc ts an asset

• Tra ining and education available

Must obtain Selling it Right Cer tification as required to work with cannabis (Costs reimbursed) Must be 19 years+ to apply

If you are interested in working in a fun and produc tive work environment with competitive wages, submit resume to: Bob Benvenuti, invermerec annabisstore@gmail.com or hand deliver to: Invermere Cannabis Store (in front of Canadian Tire) Attn: Bob Benvenuti

We’re looking for hardworking, energetic and reliable people just like you!

CASHIERS/PRODUCE CLERKS

experience required Days/Nights/Weekends Apply in person. 471 Arrow Road, Invermere, B.C.

Framers/Carpenters needed. Work in the Windermere/ Invermere area. Willing to train, zoom boom on site Competitive wages. Contac t Rene @ 250-688-2068

Wanted 2 F/T Restaurant Cooks, Rocky R iver Grill, 8888 Arrow Road, Invermere, B C Permanent, F/T shifts, over time, weekends, days and evenings, $16/hour for 40 hours per week O ver time after 40 hours. Minimum several years' experience and completion of secondar y school DUTIES:

Duck Race Ticket - $10

Society Membership - $5

Become a Festival Volunteer

ACCOMMODATION WANTED CHEERS WITHOUT TEARS

ACCOMMODATION WANTED

Cheers to Irene D for your thoughtfulness The gerber daisy is on the desk, just as you requested.

To the new young man that is working and driving for Lordco, you are a breath of fresh air, always smiling and helpful Cheers to Invermere Seniors executive for another great lunch And to Gerrianne for keeping us up to date on coming events and local happenings.

Students in the Hospitalit y Management Diploma program are star ting studies and work in the communit y mid-May

Please call 250-342-3210 x 7101 if you have housing oppor tunities

Cheers to Dr Walsh and Interior Health for getting needed tests out of town and locally Quickly

Prepare and cook full course meals, prepare and cook individual dishes and foods, ensure qualit y of food por tions, work with minimal super vision, prepare dishes for customers with food allergies or intolerances Inspec t kitchens and food ser vice areas. Please for ward resume to Justin Atterbur y by fax 250-342-8889 or email: justatterbur y@hotmail.com

CVMA hosts ‘Fun Night’

By Julia Magsombol Local Journalism Initiative julia@columbiavalleypioneer.com

At night when we feel lonesome, we hope to go somewhere for emotional support. To that end, the Columbia Valley Métis Association (CVMA) hosted a successful community gathering for people who need help with resources and support.

Family Fun Night was held on May 5, a celebration promoted by CVMA and Métis Nation British Columbia (MNBC).

"It's about building the community . . . making people feel that they belong and that they are part of a larger community," said Kelsey Prichard, community coordinator of CVMA. "I think we achieved that goal."

Prichard said that MNBC travels around chartered communities and hosts different community events and gatherings – and CVMA is one of these communities. So, they collaborated to host an event that celebrates and promotes the Métis culture.

MNBC representatives, Family Connections & Child Care Support from the Ministry of Education, funded and supported the fun night.

"And it's just to let parents and families know what they can access through Métis Nation British Columbia," Prichard added.

e gathering is also for the community wanting to know more about CVMA and the support and benefits they offer. But overall, the event is for fun and connecting with many individuals to "express themselves freely" and "have somewhere where they can go for support and resources," Prichard reiterated.

e evening attracted more than 40 people and featured food, musical bands, a campfire, and activities for children. "It was so much fun," Prichard said.

She noted this is their first time hosting the event and they plan to make it an annual gathering that builds a sense of community, pride and culture.

For more information, people can call 250-2700291 or visit columbiavalleycc@mnbc.ca

e Columbia Valley Metis Association hosted a Family Fun Night at Wilmer Community Hall on May 5. e event was all about “building community” and giving people a sense of belonging.

Photos submitted

Lake report unveils several concerns

Continued from page 16 e report was presented to council by Lake Windermere Ambassadors employee Amy Baxter, patching in via video link.

“ e findings have raised concerns about water quality and drinking water,” said Baxter.

Baxter pointed out that wake from ballasted wake boats can have considerable impact on bodies of water up to eight metres deep. “ e majority of the lake (Windermere) is three or four metres deep, and its deepest point has a maximum depth of six metres, so the whole lake is susceptible to these impacts,” she said, adding a 25 per cent increase in the level of phosphorus can be measured after just two wake boat passes.

She noted that although a full-year of data has not yet been crunched “the carrying capacity for boating is likely exceeded on busy weekends.”

Baxter outlined that there has been a trend of increasing phosphorus in Lake Windermere over the last seven years. At the same time, over the past 11 years, the average summer lake temperature has increased 1.7 degrees Celsius, she explained. ese two trends, she pointed out, could spell trouble, since high levels of phosphorus and warming water conditions are both associated with excessive algal blooms.

Baxter did explain that cyanobacteria can be a confusing organism. It can be present when there are no algal blooms to be seen. Conversely, there can be extremely visible cyanobacteria-related algal blooms, but the cyanobacteria present may not be toxic. And, just to complicated things further, non-toxic cyanobacteria can change and become toxic cyanobacteria.

She said the highest levels of cyanobacteria were measured at Kinsmen Beach in September and suggested that perhaps the prevailing winds and the comparatively more stagnant water in the Taynton Bay

might explain the high measurements. ( e winds tend to come from the south helping ‘trap’ the water in Taynton Bay, while the rest of the lake has a relatively high flushing rate, since it is really just a widening of the Columbia River).

Baxter recommended the District of Invermere put up ‘Watch Your Wake’ signs, develop a cyanobacteria response plan for Kinsmen Beach and incorporate Green Shore for Homes principles into the Athalmer Neihgbourhood Plan.

Invermere councillor Gerry Taft suggested there could be resistance to restrictions on boating, unless the Ambassadors engage the boating community right from the start, saying “my fear is there could be a fight,” especially if a final outcome is a map showing areas where boating should and shouldn’t occur.

Baxter countered that other places that have created such maps (such as Kalamalka Lake in the Okanagan) have seen a positive response, rather than a negative one.

“I truly think that if we get maps into the hands of people, they will do their best to stay in the areas deemed to best for boating from an ecological and water quality standpoint,” she said.

Others councillors did not share Taft’s quibble, and were eager to implement Baxter’s recommendations.

“We need a (cyanobacteria response) plan,” said councillor Kayja Becker, adding the district also needs a way to inform residents and visitors when cyanobacteria levels at Kinsmen Beach are particularly high “so they’re not just swimming and have no idea... at would be scary to not having anything, if these kinds of events (cyanobacteria) are going to continue to get worse.”

Baxter concurred that would be a good idea, and added “I was not expecting those (cyanobacteria) numbers to be that high.”

FAITH

The lost art of scripture

Bred Woodard Anglican/United Church

Karen Armstrong has written a book called “ e Lost Art of Scripture.” e title says so much. Scripture, all scripture – Jewish, Christian, Buddhist, Muslim, Hindu, and others – is art. It was written as art and it needs to be read and understood as art. But it has been “lost” as art for various reasons. Often in our modern world, those who care about scripture want to see it as fact, as science, as history and as biology. If it is not historically, biologically or factually “true” for them, then they are worried it may not have any truth in it at all. It is also “lost” to those who don’t care about scripture. Because they don’t see it for the art it is, they don’t care to see it at all.

Karen writes about the difference between the left hemisphere and the right hemisphere of the human brain. e left hemisphere has more to do with language, analysis and problem-solving. It suppresses information it cannot grasp conceptually. “ e right hemisphere” she writes, “has a holistic rather than an analytical vision; it sees each thing in relation to the whole and perceives the interconnectedness of reality. It is, therefore, at home with metaphor. … e left hemisphere, cares about sur-

vival and is competitive and self-centered. … e right hemisphere is more attuned to others and can see an-other point of view.”

We live, Karen says, in a very left hemisphere world. But, she says, from a very early period, “certain gifted individuals have deliberately cultivated what we would now call a right-hemispheric awareness and have had apprehensions of the ineffable unity of reality.”

From some of these “gifted individuals” have come movements and then religions. Scripture has emerged from these movements. Scripture has tried to capture this right-hemisphere way of seeing the world. In that way, scripture is art.

It doesn’t mean, of course, that the left hemisphere isn’t important. As Karen says, “the left hemisphere has unquestionably been of immense benefit to humanity. It has expanded our mental and physical horizons, dramatically enhanced our understanding of the world, greatly reduced human suffering, and enabled more people than ever before to experience physical and emotional well-being.” But the right hemisphere is crucial for a human being and a society to be balanced. It allows people to be less self-centered and helps them to attune to the greater whole of which they are a part.

It is helpful for me to see scripture as art, and that its purpose is to help people develop a right hemisphere way of seeing the world.

Farmer’s Market opening May 24

Submitted

Don’t miss the fun and socialable Farmer’s Market on Wednesdays opposite Copper Point Resort from 3-6:30 p.m.

e market features the ever popular: Bugaboo Ranch; Caleb View Farm; Scratch-A Mountain Kitchen; Edible Acres and Old Blue Truck Farm (July onwards); Frustrated Farmers; Granny’s Vans; Apple Island Naturals; along with a great selection of artists, bakers and specialty craft vendors.

e market is privileged to enjoy live music with the charismatic fun loving talent of Marty Beingessner.

It’s a great way to meet your local farmers and producers.

is season look out for some of new vendors including Weaver’s Honey, Baby Root Designs; and Riverside Farm.

e market is a great place to source a variety of small production, grassfed, ethically produced meat, eggs, honey, veggies, salad crops, local salad dressings, dips, jams and jellys.

Also check out the organic fruit and berries in season.

e market is located on Highway 93 at the Invermere Crossroads, next to the Chamber of Commerce Information Office.

Martyrs, Invermere: Saturday 5 p.m., Sunday 9 a.m. St. Joseph, Radium: Sunday 11 a.m.

Father Jojo Augustine • 712 -12th Ave., Invermere 250-342-6167

S

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

Sunday 10 a.m. Worship service

Pastor Wayne and Linda Frater • 250-342-6633 No 4, 7553 Main St Radium • 250-347-9937

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

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

CHURCH OF CHRIST (Iglesia ni Cristo)

Worship Ser vice: Sunday 9 a.m., Thursday 7:45 p.m Chamber of Commerce (Lions Hall) For inquiries: 250-688-1643 250-270-2208 or 250-688-0629

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

e Farmer’s Market is held every Wednesday from 3 to 6:30 p.m. opposite Copper Point Resort on Highway 93. It features a variety of produce and specialty crafts.

Photo by submitted