Columbia Valley Pioneer - November 30, 2023

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VOL. 20/ISSUE 48

Your Weekly Source For News And Events

NOVEMBER 30, 2023

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BREATHING FIRE

3 THE LAST OF ANNIE

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The Invermere Light Up and Santa Claus parade definitely got people in the Christmas spirit on November 25. Here, Bella and Skyler get a horse-drawn carriage ride through town.

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THE COLUMBIA VALLEY PIONEER

NOVEMBER 30, 2023

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THE COLUMBIA VALLEY PIONEER

VALLEY NEWS

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Local entrepreneur breathes fire on ‘Den’

By Steve Hubrecht steve@columbiavalleypioneer.com Local business owner Sue-Rose Read was the talk of the valley last week after appearing on the hit CBC show ‘Dragons’ Den.’ Read is well known in the Columbia Valley as the founder of Oneberrie Innovations Corp., which makes unique hands-free baby towels, as well as baby lotion, wash cloths and hand towels.

Read, an engineer by training and an entrepreneur by trade, hit upon this idea of hands-free baby towels a decade ago when she was a new mother.

As she explained to the dragons in a segment that first went live on the show’s website on Wednesday, Nov. 22, when her first child arrived, like so many other new moms, she felt under qualified for the sudden and enormous responsibilities of parenthood.

Of course, Read turned out to be a great mother (she now has two daughters and a son). But there were plenty of inherent frustrations, small and large, along the way.

One of those was trying to wrap up a baby in a towel after a bath, when the infant was slippery and wet. Read outlined how she was constantly needing to tuck the towel under her chin, in her teeth or sling it haphazardly over her shoulder while using both hands to hold her child.

“It’s huge for my company . . . it was so exciting (to be on the show).”

Sue-Rose Read Surely, she thought, there must be a better way. But there was nothing on the market that was. So she created the first Oneberrie bath towels, which take care of the how-to-hold-the-towel problem with a simple but wonderfully effective button-and-loop system that lets parents easily strap the towel around their necks while picking up their child and then just as easily slip it off when putting the child down.

Dragons’ Den has been running on CBC since 2006, and is based on a Japanese show that began five years before that. In the show, entrepreneurs pitch business and investing ideas to a group of ‘dragons’ (high profile venture capitalists) hoping to get one or more dragons to make a deal: the entrepreneur usually offers a stake in their company in return for financing and business advice from the dragon.

Read was offering 10 per cent of Oneberrie in return for $100,000 to help grow her business. She gave a quick demonstration to the dragons, with help from an adorable infant named Aria.

Read outlined that since Oneberrie began in 2016, she’s done a total of $1.2 million in sales, including $300,000 last year. This year the company is on track for $400,000 in sales. Read also emphasized her social mission, outlined her commitment to building a business in small town Invermere and her employment of local moms, who need flexible working hours.

Despite the large and growing sales figure, Read said she’d posted a loss last year, noting that direct-to-consumer (D2C) sales only account for 30 per cent of her overall business.

“Invermere is very logistically to do D2C,” she told the dragons, pointing out it costs her $22 to ship a bath towel to Ontario.

One by one, four of the dragons — Arlene Dickinson, Wes Hall, Michele Romanow, and Vincenzo Guzzo — decline to enter into a deal. Several of them explain that they think Oneberrie is a great business, but express doubt if it can be scaled up to the levels where it would generate the type of returns they would want to see as investors.

This leaves just one dragon — Manjit Minhas.

“I like you. I really do. I like the innovation. Because it is innovation,” Minhas tells Read, later adding “you just need to go sell, sell, sell, sell . . . and I’m going to help you.”

Minhas then offers Read $100,000 for 20 per cent of Oneberrie.

Read asks if she will consider $100,000 for 15 per cent. Minhas declines that counteroffer, so Read then says “let’s do it,” accepting the $100,000 for 20 per cent.

The segment was filmed in May in Toronto and Read has been sworn to secrecy ever since.

“It’s huge for my company,” Read told the Pioneer last week, the day after the segment went live.

She is a huge fan of Dragons’ Den and had actually applied twice before to be on the show, without getting on. As it turns out, the third time is the charm.

“It was so exciting (to be on the show),” said Read.

Where did Aria come from? She is the daughter of a friend of the Dragon’s Den producer assigned to Read for the show.

“It really is a huge production, there are about 50 to 100 people working on the show,” she explained.

Read said that although the dragons come across as sharp on the show, they are in fact “all very lovely” in person. They do ask pointed questions, explained Read, but most of her interaction with them is left on the cutting room floor, and only the most dramatic bits are left in.

Continued on page 5

Sue-Rose Read is seen here on Dragons’ Den pitching her Oneberrie idea in hopes to secure a dynamic deal.

PHOTO DRAGONS’ DEN/CBC

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THE COLUMBIA VALLEY PIONEER

NOVEMBER 30, 2023

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Columbia Valley RCMP confirm that a local resident (pilot) died in a plane crash north of Brisco on November 24.

Sgt. Ed deJong said police received a report at approximately 4 p.m. that a small plane went down on the Bugaboo alpine area of the valley.

“A hunter had observed the plane apparently having engine trouble, then go down in a wooded area,” deJong said.

Columbia Valley Search and Rescue, the Joint Rescue Coordination Centre, and Transport Canada were all advised and provided resources.

“On the morning of November 25, the crash site was located and it was discovered the pilot and lone occupant did not survive the impact,” the officer stat-

ed. “Our condolences go out to the family of the pilot who is a local area resident.” deJong thanked the partner agencies involved in the search for the plane, noting that Transport Canada will be the lead investigating agency going forward.

Transportation Safety Board of Canada (TSB) spokesperson Liam MacDonald told the Pioneer that a witness reported the crash on Friday, Nov. 24. The RCMP and search and rescue crews subsequently located the wreckage.

“We are currently gathering information and assessing the occurrence; however, we do not intend on deploying investigators to the site,” MacDonald said.

No further information is being released by the TSB at this time. Neither the RCMP nor the TSB is releasing the name of the deceased pilot.

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The RCMP reported the crash took place in the Columbia Valley between Brisco and the hydro line that runs on the west side of the valley.

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NOVEMBER 30, 2023

THE COLUMBIA VALLEY PIONEER

No single-use plastic ban for Invermere Mayor says federal rules make bylaw moot point

By Steve Hubrecht steve@columbiavalleypioneer.com Invermere residents pushed hard for a municipal ban in the district on single-use plastics for a couple of years prior to the COVID-19 pandemic, and then again after the pandemic.

In June 2022, the efforts appeared to have paid off. Local resident Steph Van de Kemp appeared before Invermere council, pressing them on the ban, and pointing out that more than 1,000 signatures were gathered on a petition asking council to ban single-use plastics in the district. Invermere council members of the time voiced their agreement with Van de Kemp, and Invermere Mayor Al Miller said, “It’s time to move forward. It needs to be put on a priority list.”

Later that year, the District of Invermere hired environmental planner Anne-Sophie Corriveau, who began working on the bylaw. In February 2023 Corriveau was at an Invermere council meeting seeking guidance on how broad to make the bylaw — should it cover just plastic bags or should it cover a broader range of single-use plastics (such as drinking straws, takeout containers and styrofoam)? Most council members voiced opinions in favour of banning a broader range of single-use plastics. Councillor Kayja Becker was acting as mayor at the meeting (in the absence of Miller) and said, “We need to get it going as a municipality as quickly as possible. We need to do the right thing.”

But Corriveau went on maternity leave a few months later, and has since moved to Smithers, and in the ensuing months the idea of a single-use plastic

ban has fallen by the wayside.

“We haven’t worked on it of late,” conceded Invermere Mayor Al Miller.

“We did initially push forward on it, but now it is coming up at higher levels.”

Miller’s comment was in reference to the federal government’s vow to ban the sale of single- use plastics (including checkout bags, straws, and takeout containers) this December. That, he outlined, makes any Invermere single-use plastic ban bylaw a moot point.

He also pointed out that district staff have been tied up with urgent infrastructure issues, such as badly needed water and sewer upgrades.

“Those infrastructure issues had to take priority. It was dire,” said Miller.

He did note that many businesses in Invermere and elsewhere in the valley have already done away with much of their single-use plastics.

“People seem to want to do the right thing on their own, and to me that’s great,” he said.

Still, some local residents involved in the push to ban or reduce single-use plastic were disheartened that the would-be bylaw never came to be.

The Pioneer sought comment from Van de Kemp but was unable to reach her prior to press deadline. But it was able to talk with two David Thompson Secondary School (DTSS) students — Virginia Denchuck and Anika Rievaj — who did a capstone project last spring addressing single-use plastics in Invermere.

The pair conducted a survey of downtown businesses to find out what they knew about single-use plastic regulations, whether those businesses were prepared for such regulations (either federal or a potential municipal bylaw), and if not, what they needed help with.

Only 20 to 25 of Invermere’s down-

A single-use plastics ban in Invermere has fallen by the wayside to the disappointment of some advocates.

PHOTO SAKDAWUT14/GETTY IMAGES town businesses ended up responding to the survey, explained Virginia, but of those that did respond “a lot of them did not know much about the issue at all.”

In fact, “a lot of them asked us for more information,” added Anika.

“Many of them thought it was a good idea, but didn’t know how to go about doing anything about it,” said Virginia.

She cited plastic straws as an example.

“They were worried because the quality of plastic straws is sometimes better than paper straws, but they didn’t know what else to replace the plastic straws with except for paper straws.”

Anika and Virginia were surprised the district did not end up following through on a municipal single-use plastic ban bylaw, given that 20 other communities in B.C. have already done so.

“It is disappointing they didn’t go ahead with it. It is an issue that’s been discussed in the valley for years,” said

Virginia.

“I don’t see any benefit in not doing it. It would have shown the community that council is on board with dealing with plastics,” said Anika.

Do Anika and Virginia worry that the federal government may end up not fully implementing its single-use plastics sale ban this December, and that with no municipal bylaw in place, the single-use plastic situation in Invermere could remain the same?

“I have been wondering that. I do have that worry. But I think it would be pretty bold of the federal government to not go through with it now, weeks away,” said Virginia.

Anika shared Virginia’s opinions, but noted that if it were to be the case that the federal regulations get delayed, “it could be hard to get rolling again (for a single-use plastics ban). There was a lot of public momentum on it.”

Deal not a ‘Den’ deal Continued from page 3 In all, she spent about 40 minutes pitching Oneberrie to the dragons, which was edited into an eight-minute segment.

In the end, after the filming was done, the deal did not go through, however. This does happen with Dragon’s Den, explained Read. The deal made on the show is not 100 per cent final, and both parties have a chance to do some homework after the fact. In the end the timing was not quite right for Minhas and Read’s deal.

“So we (Oneberrie) are still open to an investor,” said Read, adding even

5

though the deal didn’t work out, she is delighted to have been on Dragon’s Den and to see how the exposure of being on a hit national television show can help Oneberrie.

Read is also glad to have helped underscore the difficulties new mothers face and to bring some attention to women who juggle being a parent with entrepreneurship.

“If being an entrepreneur is a marathon, then raising babies while also building a business is an Ironman,” she said.

To find out more about Oneberrie visit oneberrie.ca.

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THE COLUMBIA VALLEY PIONEER

NOVEMBER 30, 2023

PERSPECTIVE

Behaviour bylaw intriguing idea When first introduced, one might initially question the need for a respectful behaviour bylaw in Invermere. Sounds like something you might see in a new board game: roll the dice, land on ‘pick your policy’ and read the instructional card – “Residents call for a new bylaw regulating how people treat each other.

Do you give it first reading to win votes, or do you simply issue a proclamation instead?”

Ummm . . . this game is boring.

In truth, such a bylaw that Invermere council is considering may not be so trivial after all, but still, one would think being respectful is part of human nature, so why regulate it? Therein lies the problem: not everyone is respectful. In fact, some people can be downright vicious in their views and comments towards others. Standing outside the Summit Youth Hub with a sign reading, “Hey kids, trannies = terrorists/satanists” is not what you would call amiable. And according to Columbia Valley Pride, some of its committee members have been threatened through social media.

So maybe a new bylaw is necessary. But like councillor Gerry Taft said, it may not have much effect since you can’t legislate respect. Establishing more rainbow crosswalks may (or may not) create more tolerance and respect, but more must be done to tone down all this hate. Perhaps new signs and banners would help get the point across that we are all human beings despite how we choose to identify ourselves.

If council does enact such a policy, it will be very interesting to see how people’s behaviour is regulated and how enforcement plays out.

Many towns and cities in B.C. have established a ‘good neighbour bylaw’ that encourages good relationships among residents by regulating everything from noise to being a nuisance. Yes, there are a few people out there who get off on being lousy neighbours; just ask any bylaw enforcement officer.

There is one documented case in the South Okanagan where a man harassed his neighbours for years via noise, erecting cameras, and generally being as irritating as possible. Police were involved on several occasions, and in one instance, a man couldn’t take the harassment any longer and assaulted the old fellow.

In another neighbourhood across town, a senior couple put up fake cameras to deter thieves, but in the end their neighbour accused them of spying on her, which led to a big row and a story in the local newspaper.

A respectful behaviour bylaw might not be a bad idea; at least it would give bylaw officers the authority to act if someone is being a pain in the butt or downright hateful. At the same time, council must be careful not to come off like ‘big brother’ who is watching everyone to ensure they behave like good little boys and girls.

Lyonel Doherty, editor

Historical Lens

Wearing fancy hats in the 1890s are sisters Rose Jergen Stoddart and Eleanora Stoddart who reportedly married a pair of brothers.

PHOTO PROVIDED BY THE WINDERMERE AND DISTRICT HISTORICAL SOCIETY

Help stop spread of disease As recently reported in the Pioneer, whirling disease among fin fish has temporarily closed all waterbodies and shorelines in Yoho National Park and Kootenay National Park until March 31.

The Government of Canadian explains that whirling disease does not pose any direct risk to humans, but it can be detrimental to trout, salmon, and whitefish.

There is no treatment for whirling disease, and it spreads by humans through the transport of infected live or dead fish, contaminated worms, equipment, or water sources.

Here are some things that you can do to help stop the spread: • Clean, drain and dry when moving between water bodies. This includes all watercraft, trailers, motors, paddlecraft, floaties, fishing gear and any equipment

that has contact with the water.

• Remember that the disease can live in mud and water.

• The disease can be transported through contaminated mud, aquatic plants, and aquatic animals.

• Never transport or release fish, plants, or animals from one water body to the next • Do not introduce live fish from another country into the natural waters of Canada.

• Do not use fish that were bought in a grocery store as bait for fishing.

• When cleaning and gutting fish, dispose of all waste in your municipal garbage.

For more information visit our website www. lakeambassadors.ca Pam Saunders, Lake Windermere Ambassadors

The Columbia Valley

CANADIAN COMMUNITY NEWSPAPER AWARD 2013

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NOVEMBER 30, 2023

THE COLUMBIA VALLEY PIONEER

Radium gives tax break for new LTRs

By Steve Hubrecht steve@columbiavalleypioneer.com Anyone creating new long-term rental housing in the Village of Radium Hot Springs will get a decade-long break on municipal taxes.

Radium council adopted a bylaw making the tax exemption official at a council meeting earlier this month. The move is meant to encourage more longterm rentals in the village, which like much of the rest of the Columbia Valley has been caught in a housing crunch during the last several years. The crunch is multi-pronged — housing prices have bumped up dramatically since the COVID-19 pandemic, and at the same time long-term rental housing has become harder to find (and more expensive).

“Council has identified housing development, and incenting long-term rental housing, as a priority for the village”, said acting Radium mayor Dale Shudra in a statement. “From the (municipal election) campaign into this council’s first year, it has been and will remain a point of focus of council and village staff.”

Large-scale developments that involve creating more than five new units of long-term rental housing can get a 100 per cent municipal tax break over 10 years, so long as the property owners sign a long-term housing agreement with BC Housing. Smaller-scale developments (those that create five or fewer new units of long-term rental hous-

ing) can get a 75 per cent municipal tax break, if the owners sign a housing agreement with the Village of Radium Hot Springs.

The bylaw applies not only to brand new housing, but also to new secondary suites and accessory dwelling units.

Long-term rentals that existed prior to mid-November this year are not eligible, and neither are short-term rentals.

Back in September, when the village gave second reading to the bylaw, Radium Mayor Mike Gray (who is currently away on vacation) explained to the Pioneer that “the idea here is if you are creating something that’s of value to the community, and in this case that’s long-term rental housing, we’re willing to provide a tax exemption. It’s an extra nudge to build the long-term rentals that our community really needs. We’re hoping that, combined with incentives or programs from the federal government and provincial government, it will result in more long-term rentals in Radium.”

Gray noted that municipal revitalization tax exemptions are usually offered in commercial areas “but we are applying it to a residential area, because we think it fits.”

Earlier this year, in another move meant to help bolster long-term housing in Radium, the village used grant money to buy a three-unit long-term rental building in the community, to be managed by the Columbia Valley Housing Society.

The Village of Radium is offering a good deal to those who bring long-term rental housing to the community.

PHOTO www.fotogestoeber.de/Getty Images

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Radium council has adopted a bylaw offering a 10-year municipal tax exemption to encourage more long-term rental housing in the village.

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THE COLUMBIA VALLEY PIONEER

NOVEMBER 30, 2023

Local author launches Christmas novella

By Steve Hubrecht steve@columbiavalleypioneer.com A Columbia Valley author is launching her latest book just in time for the holiday season.

If you’ve got a literature lover on your Christmas shopping list, you’re in luck, as Maureen Thorpe’s ‘A Most Unusual Christmas’ will make a great stocking stuffer.

It’s Thorpe’s sixth book overall, as well as the fifth (and Thorpe says the final) in her popular series about time-travelling hereditary witch Annie Thornton.

Local readers first came to know Annie in ‘A Tangle of Time’ (Thorpe’s debut novel), which saw Annie go back to a 15th century English manor home.

Next up Annie visited Viking times in ‘Sailing to Byzantium’; Roman Britain in 300 A.D. in ‘Coventina’s Well’, and finally went to Shakespearean times in 1600s London in ‘All the World’s A Stage’. In addition to churning all those out, Thorpe also wrote a novella unrelated to the Annie Thornton series in summer 2022 — ‘Murder in the Market’ — which was a mystery set in a farmer’s market in a small mountain town.

‘A Most Unusual Christmas’ features Annie Thornton once again, but there’s a twist: this time Annie stays firmly put in the present day and age. Instead it’s friends from various centuries (who Annie met while time travelling) who come to see her in modern times. For Christmas, of course.

But the festive time-travelling visitations are not just for fun and merriment. Annie – who has settled down with a husband and now has a pair of four-year-old twins — is encountering some difficulties in her marriage.

She’s told her husband Adam about her time-travelling, and he simply doesn’t believe her. In fact, he thinks she needs to start seeing a psychiatrist. So Annie enlists her friends from ages past to come to the 21st century and convince Adam that she is in fact telling the truth.

Alas, things don’t go quite as planned.

“It all goes downhill from there. The holiday unravels, spiralling out of control, in a big way,” Thorpe told the Pioneer.

How exactly does it unravel? You’ll have to read the book to find out. But suffice it to say, there’s a good deal of humour.

“You can imagine, if you came to the 21st century from Roman Britain, or from Viking times, you’d suddenly be confronted with things such as mobile phones, televisions, and toilets. And each of the characters (from the past) does that, and each comes to terms with these things in a different way,” explains Thorpe.

She added it was a good brain exercise — and a lot of fun — thinking through and then writing those aspects of the book.

There’s tension too. Will Annie’s plan backfire to the point that she ends up losing her family? That too is something you need to pick up the book to learn. If you’ve been following Annie’s escapades from the start, you’ll also want to get the book to see how the series concludes. While Thorpe has always enjoyed penning the Annie series, she said it has come to a natural conclusion with ‘A Most Unusual Christmas’.

“It just feels it’s time to go. It’s been enough . . . I feel quite good about where the series is at,” says Thorpe. “That, and I’ve run out of time periods that I’m really interested in and that I want to drag Annie to . . . it’s a bit sad for me, because these characters — Annie and her friends — they’ve been a big presence in my head for a few years now. So in ending the series, it’s like I’m saying goodbye to them.”

Make no mistake: although Thorpe is bidding adieu to Annie Thornton and company, she is not done as an author.

“Once you start writing, you can’t stop,” admits Thorpe.

So what will her next book be about?

“That I really don’t know,” she says She did indicate there may be a

bit of a break from the furious pace at which she’s been writing over the past few years. Her first book — ‘A Tangle of Time’ — took five years to create. But once that initial novel was published, the next five books came out in a mere four and a half years.

Thorpe is holding two launch events for ‘A Most Unusual Christmas’. The first will be at the Invermere Public Library on Wednesday, Dec. 13 from 5:30 to 7

p.m. and will include mulled apple cider and Maureen’s Scottish shortbread cookies. The second will be at Four Points Books in downtown Invermere.

As of press time an exact date and time for the Four Points event had yet to be determined, although Thorpe says she thinks it will also be in mid-December.

Check out fourpointsbooks.ca or call 250-341-6211 to find out more.

Time traveller Annie Thornton is back in Maureen Thorpe’s new book ‘A Most Unusual Christmas.’

ILLUSTRATION SUBMITTED

Edgewater Senior Society

Join Us! It’s the second show of our Mountain Man Series This show will feature the life of renowned mountaineer Leo Grillmair...what an extraordinary life he had.

Enjoy refreshments and a visit with Leo’s wife Lynne following the show.

Dec 1 at 7:00pm - Edgewater Community Hall Admission by donation Everyone Welcome!

Presented by Pat Morrow

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NOVEMBER 30, 2023

THE COLUMBIA VALLEY PIONEER

District looks at ‘alternate delivery’ Columbia Valley Pioneer staff Rocky Mountain School District No. 6 has given first reading to a policy that would allow students and their parents to arrange for “alternate delivery” of sensitive educational topics.

The physical and health education K-9 and 10 curriculum have certain topics related to reproduction and sexuality that some students may find uncomfortable learning in a regular classroom setting. That’s why the board is looking at offering alternate learning arrangements. These must be in consultation with the school, and does not mean students can opt out of the curriculum; they still must adequately demonstrate their knowledge of these topics.

There are several ways alternate delivery can be accommodated, such as home instruction using school (or other agreed-upon) materials. Self-directed study is another method.

Assistant Superintendent Steve Wyer said the alternative delivery approach is a Ministry of Education policy related only to the content of the physical education and health curriculum.

He noted this is the only curricular area in which alternate delivery is allowed.

Wyer pointed out that the sexual orientation and gender identity (SOGI) resource that school districts are looking at is a separate issue that is not fac-

tored into the alternate delivery model.

“SOGI is not a curriculum and is not contemplated by the Ministry in this policy.”

Wyer said it is important to note the significance of the term ‘alternative delivery,” adding this policy does not permit schools to omit addressing or assessing any of the required learning standards within the physical and health curriculum.

“Neither does it allow students to be excused from meeting any learning standards related to health,” he said.

Wyer explained that the policy recognizes the family as the primary educator in the development of children’s attitudes, standards, and values. But it still requires that all learning standards be addressed.

He said families would notify schools about their wishes for alternative delivery. The school would then work with the family to determine how student understanding (of the material) would be assessed.

Wyer recently presented school trustees with an informational update on the SOGI resource. The key word here is “inclusion” where every student is made to feel that they belong regardless of how they identify themselves.

Wyer said SOGI applies to everyone. “Regardless of how one identifies, the term is inclusive.” But he acknowl-

edged there is some inaccurate information circulating about SOGI, noting there are people who see this resource as divisive, which has led to protests.

He pointed out that SOGI 123 has been in existence in BC education for seven years, adding that it advances the priority of equity, diversity and inclusion in order to make everyone feel safe and welcomed in school.

“Rather than focus on the teaching of inclusion, protest groups seek to place the focus on the aspects of sexual orientation and gender,” Wyer said, adding the district is ensuring the education is all about inclusion.

Wyer indicated that acknowledging and sharing your pronouns in the early

9

grades is not likely to be developmentally appropriate since students at this age don’t fully understand their own identity or what inclusion means. But for senior students, pronouns (they/ them) are acknowledged because it “allows people of marginalized gender to feel safe and included,” Wyer explained.

He said principals are aware of this and monitoring SOGI activities to ensure they are consistently connected to the larger goal of inclusion.

“Sensitive topics require a gentle approach in diverse communities.

Without careful school planning and communication, educators run the risk of further alienating those we seek to include,” he stated.

The school district is looking at a policy that would allow students and their parents to arrange for ‘alternate FILE PHOTO delivery’ of some sensitive topics in physical and health education.

Every evening at 6 PM, Kayla from the DTSS drama club opens the night with a reading of ‘Twas the Night before Christmas Christmas at the Outside Gazebo.

Tickets also available by cash or cheque at The Brick Invermere.

Tickets must be purchased in advance.

FRI DEC 15

5:30 PM Mayor Al Miller Opening Ceremony - ribbon cutting 6:15 PM Emma Miller sings 6:30 PM The Laird Singing Bananas

SAT DEC 16

6:15 PM Bryant Oleander sings 6:30 PM The Laird Amazing Ukulele Troup 7 & 7:30 PM Spring Burke plays violin 8:00 pm Slone Leman sings

7 & 7:30 PM Janice Boulet sings 8:00 PM Tyson Avis plays piano

FRI DEC 22

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6:15 PM Emma Miller sings 6:30 PM Valley Voices 7 & 7:30 PM Bryant Oleander sings 8:00 PM Danica Colucci sings

SAT DEC 23

6:15 PM Emma Miller sings 6:30 PM Valley Voices 7 & 7:30 PM Spring Burke plays violin 8:00 PM Steve Fowler plays guitar and sings 8:30 PM Closing & Presentation of Favourite Tree

Scrumptious bites and decadent drinks sold all evening.

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THE COLUMBIA VALLEY PIONEER

NOVEMBER 30, 2023

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NOVEMBER 30, 2023

Thursday, November 30 • 10:30am-11:30am: Senior’s Fitness Columbia Valley Centre, $2 dropin.

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

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

• 7:00pm-9:00pm: CV Arts AGM Pynelogs. Columbia Valley Arts Annual General Meeting. All welcome.

• 7:30pm: Trivia Night Windermere Whitehouse Pub.

Friday, December 1 • 3:30pm-8:00pm: Pop Up Book Sale. Invermere Library Mezzanine during the Holly Jolly Market. Friends of Invermere Library present a Pop Up Book Sale just in time for gifting or stocking up on winter reading. Browse a huge selection of current books including kids' books, popular authors, top picks, mystery, cook books and more.

All funds raised support Invermere Public Library. Cash Sales Only.

• 4:00pm-8:00pm: Holly Jolly Market. Columbia Valley Centre. The jolliest bunch of vendors this side of the Rockies!

• 7:00pm: The Life of Leo Grillmair, Mountaineer, A Film.

Edgewater Community Hall. A film by David Goldsmith. See for yourself, the extraordinary life of Leo Grillmair. Admission by Donation, refreshments and a visit with Leo’s wife Lynne following the film. Everyone welcome.

• 10:30am-11:00am: Family Storytime. Invermere Public Library.

Join us weekly on Fridays and/or Saturdays for Family Storytime at the library! With stories, songs & a craft. Geared towards preschool age (2-5) but all welcome.

• 2:00pm-3:45pm: Wild Woolies: Radium Public Library. Join our fibre arts circle! Everyone and every skill level welcome. No registration required.

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

• 7:00pm-10:00pm: Columbia Valley Rockies vs Fernie

THE COLUMBIA VALLEY PIONEER

• 10:00am-4:00pm: Pop Up Book Sale. Invermere Library Mezzanine during the Holly Jolly Market. Friends of Invermere Library present a Pop Up Book Sale just in time for gifting or stocking up on winter reading. Browse a huge selection of current books including kids' books, popular authors, top picks, mystery, cook books and more. All funds raised support Invermere Public Library. Cash Sales Only.

• 7:00pm-9:00pm: Invermere Community Drum Circle. Pynelogs.

Rhythm By Nature and the Columbia Valley Arts Council bring you a fully interactive and immersive experience twice a month at the Invermere Community Drum Circle. Professionally facilitated, you will learn about the history of the drum, drumming cultures, and drumming techniques but that's only the beginning! https://www. tickettailor.com/events/rhythmbynature/store • 10:30am-11:00am: Family Storytime. Invermere Public Library.

Join us weekly on Fridays and/or 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. Book a one-on-one 30 minute reading session to practice reading aloud! Build skill, confidence, and a love of reading. Contact us to book a 30 minute session between 2-4 pm on Saturdays at the library. All reading abilities welcome. publiclibrary@invermere.net • 6:30pm: Meat Draw and 50/50 in the Legion! Members and guests welcome!

Sunday, December 3 • 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.

• 7:00pm-10:00pm: Columbia Valley Rockies vs Creston Valley

Saturday, December 2

Monday, December 4

• 10:00am-4:00pm: Holly Jolly Market. Columbia Valley Centre. The jolliest bunch of vendors this side of the Rockies!

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

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

11

Tuesday, December 5 • 6:00pm-9:00pm: Rustic Wreaths for a cause! Lions Club Hall.

Enjoy a festive evening with friends, while helping make magic for both the Garden of Lights fundraiser and your own home.

Make two wreaths- one for us, and one to take home for yourself.

You’ll work fast and efficiently on the Groundswell wreath and then get more creative on your own. Most materials will be supplied- please bring any 'special' home decorations that you may want to add. Sign up at Events for November 2023 (groundswellnetwork.ca) • 9:30am-10:30am: Parent Tot Yoga. Mountain Home Yoga. Wellrounded yoga practice and play. Follow along, or attend to your child, no pressure to participate (this grace is extended to your instructor Laura and her daughter Winnie too!) Here we invite the littlest of us to learn mindfulness, loving-kindness and compassion, while practicing breath and playing with postures. All ages welcome!

• 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.

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

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

•

Wednesday, December 6

• 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.

12

THE COLUMBIA VALLEY PIONEER

SPORTS

NOVEMBER 30, 2023

The Golden Rockets Indigenous players from left to right are Deegan Wapass, Jake Yakubowski, Draeden Bear, and Nathan Andrew. All proudly wear their Indigenous names on the back of their jerseys.

PHOTO GOLDEN ROCKETS WEBSITE

Players wear Indigenous names on jerseys

By Julia Magsombol Local Journalism Initiative julia@columbiavalleypioneer.com This year four junior hockey players from Golden Rockets are wearing orange jerseys with their Indigenous names on the back.

The idea came from Nathan Andrew, an 18-year-old junior player and former graduate of Mount Baker Secondary School.

"I took the chance. I was inspired by what Ethan Bear [a Cree-Canadian professional hockey defenceman] did with his last name. I thought it'd be pretty cool. I never had the chance to express or show people that I'm proud to be Indigenous," said Andrew.

He explained that the idea started when he played in the Okanagan Hockey Club last year when he had the chance to have his Indigenous name on his jersey. This year he heard that his team would be wearing an orange jer-

sey, so he thought he might just add the names again.

"I'm sure some of the other Indigenous guys were thinking the same thing. We're excited to be able to get the chance to wear this and be supported by the community. It feels pretty good."

Andrew shared that one of his goals is to bring awareness to other players; that anyone can play the game. It doesn't matter where they’re from, who they are, or what race they are.

"It's the game of hockey; you're just out there to play. And if you've given it all, then it will work out for you."

Golden Rockets posted on their social media that their plan is “to also raise awareness for Indigenous communities and the effect that residential schools had on them."

The back of Andrew's jersey has his Indigenous name in Ktunaxa language, which is 'Big Swan' in English.

He explained that this name came from his mother's side of the family and his

REACH OUT

great-grandfather's last name.

Andrew said when they get to a certain age, the elders decide whether they are ready for the name. He explained that it's like a responsibility to carry on the last name from their past generation.

"I was pretty excited. I was ready to have this last name. I can take on the responsibility."

The Pioneer asked what does wearing this specific jersey mean to him.

"Firstly, it made me very proud.

Growing up in an all-white environment, there are not a lot of native kids around my school. I was slightly shy growing up about my Indigenous roots.

But as I got older, I became more proud of it. I'm not afraid to let people know I'm proud to be Indigenous and wear my last name."

Coming from Aq'am Community with both Indigenous parents, Andrew started playing hockey with his father when he was four years old.

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"Someone gives you a chance to represent your people and community. I know it makes my community and family pretty proud. And it also makes me proud too — to be able to do something and spread awareness with my family's name and my people."

Andrew hopes to continue to wear his jersey in future games.

"I want to be a role model to my community. I just want to be the guy the community looks up to,” he said.

“Hopefully, I can go to college, play hockey, and maybe be a pro someday.

Then people from my community can see that anything's possible, and you just got to work for things that you want."

Andrew advises young players to enjoy their time on the ice and give it all they have every day . . . to enjoy their moments with their teammates, friends, and family.

For more information, visit Golden Rockets at https://www.goldenrockets. com.

NOVEMBER 30, 2023

THE COLUMBIA VALLEY PIONEER

SPORTS

13

Local goalie signs deal with Royals

By Steve Hubrecht steve@columbiavalleypioneer.com A local teenager with top-notch puck stopping skills signed a scholarship and development agreement with a Western Hockey League team (Victoria Royals) last week.

It’s the latest step in Invermere-raised Ryan Tamelin’s goalkeeping career, and could even see the 17 year old playing a few major junior hockey games later this season.

The deal was announced on Wednesday, Nov. 22, and comes as Ryan has a standout season with the under 18 (U18) Okanagan Hockey Academy (OHA)’s prep team, which is based in Penticton and plays in the Canadian Sports School Hockey League (CSSHL).

In fact, Ryan was named CSSHL player of the month for October. In six games, he has a 1.00 goals against average (GAA) and .961 save percentage, while getting two shutouts. The OHA U18 team has won every game that Ryan has played.

“He’s pretty excited (about the Royals deal),” said Ryan’s dad Darren last week. “He’s been working really hard during the last year and a half.”

Last year Ryan played with the OHA’s U17 prep team. He played 19 games, won 12 and had a 2.35 GAA and .928 save percentage, with two shutouts.

“He was among the top four or five goaltenders in his league last year, and this year he’s on track to be the best,” said Darren. “He’s not just working hard on the rink but at school too, and we’re really proud of him.”

Ryan may play a few games for the Royals this year, and he will be at the Royals camp at the start of next season.

“It (the camp) can be pretty ruthless. Every game you need to perform, or they could drop you and move on to the next guy. So there’s a lot of pressure for sure,” explained Darren. “But for now, we just want to let him enjoy this moment.”

“They (the Royals) called me up and told me they

were interested. They are having a bit of goalie trouble this year, so they wanted to sign me,” Ryan told the Pioneer. “With me so tall, there’s interest.”

Ryan is six feet and eight inches tall, and 201 pounds — a commanding presence in net.

Like many kids growing up in the Columbia Valley and across Canada, Ryan has loved hockey since

he was young. Why did he choose to be a netminder?

“I thought the goalie gear was really cool,” he explained.

Ryan was originally selected by the Spokane Chiefs in the 2021 WHL Prospects Draft. He was later released by the Chiefs, which freed him up to sign with the Royals.

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THE COLUMBIA VALLEY PIONEER

NOVEMBER 30, 2023

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THE COLUMBIA VALLEY PIONEER

15

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Everyone invited to Christmas Bird Count Columbia Valley Pioneer staff Another Christmas Bird Count is fast approaching and everyone is invited.

This year the count in the Invermere area will take place on Saturday, Dec. 16. Experienced or not, all are welcome to participate in this great outdoor activity.

Starting in 1900, the annual count is North America's longest-running Citizen Science project that focuses on the winter bird population. Many birds leave the local area for warmer climates while other species arrive from the far north.

The information collected by thousands of volunteers forms one of the world’s largest sets of wildlife survey data and is used daily by biologists to assess population trends and bird distribution. The results are submitted

to the Audubon/Bird Studies Canada databases and collated for all of North America.

Each Christmas Bird Count is completed within a previously established 24-km diameter area on a single day.

Anyone interested in counting the ‘feathered friends’ in Invermere can contact Gareth Thomson at gareth@ biosphereinstitute.org. Bring your binoculars, camera or just yourself and you will be matched with a group of experienced birders for the outing. At the end of the day on December 16, birders gather for an optional potluck dinner to get to know each other better and exchange notes from the day.

Another way to participate is to observe and count the birds at your feeder.

For details, contact Thomson before the day of the count. Note that your location must be within the count circle (12-km radius from Wilmer).

The Christmas Bird Count in the Invermere area is scheduled for December 16. Experienced or not, all are welcome to take part in the event.

TOP PHOTO CLAUDE RIOUX BOTTOM PHOTOS PAT MORROW

16

THE COLUMBIA VALLEY PIONEER

NOVEMBER 30, 2023

PIONEER CLASSIFIEDS 250-341-6299

info@columbiavalleypioneer.com

ANNOUNCEMENTS

OBITUARY

Al-Anon. Are you concerned about or affected by someone else’s drinking? Meeting Mondays 7:15 pm. at Canadian Martyrs Parish front side door.

712 12 Ave. Invermere. For more information or to speak with someone from our fellowship, please call 250-8782448 or 250-342-8392.

Alcoholics Anonymous. If alcohol is causing problems or con ict in your life, AA can help.

All meetings are at 7 p.m.

Columbia United AA, Invermere: Saturday, Sunday, Tuesday and Wednesday at the BC Service Building, South End – 624 4th St., Invermere. Please call 250342-2424 for more information or to speak with someone from our fellowship.

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

Notice: There will be NO table top Christmas trees this year..The table top Christmas tree elf is not well! Hope to be back next year

It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Patsy (Pat) Grace Spocchi. Pat was a cherished wife, mother, grandmother, sister, niece and friend. She passed away peacefully November 20, 2023 at the age of 71 with her loving husband Rene by her side.

Pat left us far too soon and though we were blessed to be touched by her love and friendship, the imprint she left on our hearts far exceeds the time that she was with us.

Pat is survived and lovingly remembered by her husband Rene, son Dean (Sarah) Spocchi, daughter Tania (Wes) Nygaard-Peterson, grandchildren Emma, Holly, Morgan and Hunter, sister Peggy (Ron) Trafford, brother Ronald (Tia) McDermid, sister Judy McDermid, nieces and nephews Barry, Chrystal, Lorlie, Merlin, Kyle, Katie and Jordan.

Pat was predeceased by her parents John and Stella McDermid and her sister Ilene Kachkowski.

A Celebration of Life will be organized by family & friends sometime in the new year. Details will be shared when they are finalized.

To view Pat’s full notice please visit the McPherson Funeral Services website.

CHEERS

Biggest cheers & gratitude to Fairmont Goldsmith. Almost each time I've gone in with various minor needs for watches & rings, and the x was a quick & easy one, it's always been "no charge". I just can't say enough for how appreciated it is!! Many Many cheers!!

Big cheers for the District Bylaw Officer. Always helping out the Town and manning roadblocks for Santa and the light-up parade. Cheers DOI.

Arts cheers to Irena for her Klimt murals in historical Delphine Hotel, Wilmer CHEERS to Sharron and Gerry (and your helpers) for all of your time and effort that went into creating and installing the entrance sign to Wilmer.

It is people like you that make us proud to live in Wilmer!

OBITUARY

Spocchi, Patsy (Pat) Grace

CHEERS

CHEERS! To Robin at the Brick for service above the norm on Thursday.

www.columbiavalleypioneer.com

WANTED

PLANTS / SHRUBS / TREES

BUSINESS SERVICES

B.B.'s Home & Design Services Woodworth Tree Farm Renovations, Masonry & pop up store Handyman Services, Blinds, Douglas r Christmas trees Housechecks, eavestrough/ Wreaths, swag and garland yard cleaning/dumps runs Family friendly 250-688-2897 Friday 1-8 Saturday 10-8 Get-ER-Done Handyman Sunday 10-4 Landscaping, Asphalt Pads, 9364 Pinto Rd Juniper Heights

Seeking Stories & Memories Christmas Lights set up, from anyone who may have Plants for sale. Tropical plants, General Contracting, known/grown up with small and large. Contact 250- Cleaning Gutters, House Checks Victor (Vic) Thygesen.

Call Ryan 604-346-5087 688-0484 All stories mean more to my husband than you can know!

THE HEARTFELT COMPANION: MISC. Please email Services for Seniors HOME SERVICES Kristin@remaxinvermere.com to Since 2014 we've provided Are you looking for a share, and THANK YOU, SO kind and compassionate house sitter!

MUCH! non-medical care, I am senior in good health, transportation to Cranbrook, former home, business owner. overnight care, meal prep, FIREWOOD Reliable and dependable.Good grocery shopping and more. with pets and small dogs.

Excellent local references.

PINE FIREWOOD Contact 250-688-0484 for 250-341-5683 250-342-6068 Heartfeltcompanionservices.com services

DONALD (DON) WAYNE STEEDMAN MARCH 17, 1946 ~ NOVEMBER 19, 2023 The family of Don Steedman is sad to announce his sudden passing in Rocky View Hospital in Calgary after a short illness.

Born in Red Deer, Alberta in 1946, the eldest son of John and Helen Steedman, he spent his early school years in Calgary. In 1960 Don and his family moved to Windermere where his parents bought and ran the Rio Lynne grocery, gas station and cabins.

Growing up Don was a avid sportsman, playing sports of all kinds including basketball, hockey, and baseball. In his later life his love of sports brought him to cycling and he became very involved with the local cycling club.

Don was perhaps best known in the valley for his many years of owning and operating Rockies Pizzeria in Radium. After suffering a stroke in 2016, Don worked hard at his rehabilitation and deciding to make the best of his situation, got himself a scooter for getting around Invermere. He could often be found downtown visiting various businesses, going for coffee with friends, or venturing out on the Legacy Trail with his three wheeled adaptive E-bike.

Don made many friends over the years and became a part of many families, where he would share his funloving and positive attitude.

Passing before him were his parents, Helen and John and his brother, Bob. He is survived by his brother Jack (Glenda), Windermere, his sister Carol Dobson(John), Brisco and many nieces and a nephew.

Join us as we celebrate and remember Don on Friday, December 8th, 3:00 pm at the Windermere Community Hall.

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NOVEMBER 30, 2023

THE COLUMBIA VALLEY PIONEER

17

CVSAR sends out hazard alert

HELP WANTED

Columbia Valley Pioneer staff Columbia Valley Search and Rescue (SAR) is sending out a friendly alert to backcountry enthusiasts to be careful out there.

The volunteer group says winter is approaching and that a lot of early season hazards exist just under the surface (hiding hard objects that can damage your skis, snowmobile or your body).

“Our glaciers have also taken a big hit from a hot summer,” SAR says on its Facebook page. “Lots of melt and change have created new crevasses as well as a

growing complexity to the crevasses. What you once knew about the glacier may not be true anymore.”

SAR points out that snow depths on the ice are also minimal with poor bonding, making glacier travel especially risky. “Make sure you carry the appropriate glacier travel, rope rescue and avalanche rescue equipment and make sure everyone knows how to use it.”

SAR advises people to practise their crevasse rescue and avalanche rescue skills with their friends at home while the snow accumulates in the mountains.

We are Hiring!

Are you a skilled Heavy DutyTicketed Mechanic?

CS McLean Contracting is on the lookout for a talented individual to join our team. The successful candidate will be responsible for troubleshooting, repairs and maintenance on a variety of heavy equipment as well as hauling trucks and trailers. Must have proven experience in heavy equipment maintenance and repair, have strong diagnostic and problem solving skills, and have the ability to work independently and collaboratively.

We offer a competitive wage, health and wellness benefits, and a positive and collaborative work environment. If you are passionate about heavy equipment and thrive in a challenging yet rewarding role, we want to hear from you! To apply please send your resume and references along to csmcleancontracting@gmail.com

Columbia Valley Search and Rescue is advising residents to use caution when adventuring in the backcountry. Shown here are the Purcell Mountains.

DISTRICT OF INVERMERE

914 – 8th Avenue, PO Box 339 Invermere, BC V0A 1K0 Tel: (250) 342-9281 Fax: (250) 342-2934

WINTER OPERATIONS The District of Invermere would like to remind everyone to take extra care while travelling during the winter season.

Residential and commercial driveway entrances and sidewalks are the responsibility of the owner to be cleared of snow and ice to the degree that the mobility of vehicular and pedestrian traffic shall not be compromised.

Here’s how you can help...

• Be a good neighbour.

• Do not park on the street during a snowstorm or while snow clearing operations are underway.

• Pile snow on the right side of your driveway (when facing the road) if possible when shoveling.

• Remove snow from around fire hydrants on or near your property to enable quick access by emergency personnel if the need arises.

• If there’s any obstructions along District owned Right-of-Ways (i.e. rocks, flower pots) please have those moved.

The District apologizes for any inconveniences caused by snow removal operations. For further information, please telephone the municipal office at 250- 342-9281.

The District of Invermere thanks you for your co-operation!

PHOTO CVSAR

RDEK re-elects Gay, Clovechok as leaders Columbia Valley Pioneer staff Rob Gay and Susan Clovechok have been re-elected by acclamation to head the Regional District of East Kootenay (RDEK) for another term.

During recent elections, Electoral Area C Director Gay was given a vote of confidence for this 13th term as chair.

“Our board has developed strong, respectful working relationships and I’m looking forward to another productive year,” said Gay, who has been on the board since 2005 and is the RDEK’s longest serving chair.

Electoral Area F Director Clovechok was elected as vice-chair for a fourth year.

“I am grateful for the continued confidence and support of my fellow directors in re-electing me,” she said.

“I have learned a tremendous amount over the past three years and am honoured and energized by being able to work on behalf of the residents of our region in this capacity.”

Gay will be providing his year-in-review in December. “My outline includes a few sentences on emergencies and wildfires of course, but drought is also a concern for all residents,” Gay told the Pioneer.

The chair noted the RDEK has made some major policy changes in 2023 including updating its building regulations and rolling out a short-term rental policy. “In terms of dollars ($12 million), our largest project is debris/ flood control on Cold Spring Creek in Fairmont, which is underway.”

Gay said the RDEK has a long list of projects tied to its new strategic plan.

“During Q1/24 a big focus is on our financial plan. Protective services, recreation projects, and making improvements in our solid waste and waste diversion services will consume much of staff's time in 2024,” he pointed out.

On the Kootenay East Hospital Board side, adding a new tower to include renal and maybe cancer treatment is on the wish list, Gay said.

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THE COLUMBIA VALLEY PIONEER

NOVEMBER 30, 2023

Group eyes food security as top priority

By Julia Magsombol Local Journalism Initiative julia@columbiavalleypioneer.com Food recovery and security for all residents is uppermost on the minds of Columbia Valley Food and Farm (CVFF).

CVFF is a local non-profit established to address several issues surrounding food in the valley. Their mission is to promote, advocate for and highlight the importance of a local food supply, a belief that strongly resonates with community members.

CVFF has worked hard to increase food security in the valley for the last several years, and now the group is laying the groundwork for its most ambitious project yet. CVFF wants to start a food recovery program which would help feed people in the valley, make healthy food choices more accessible, and keep waste food out of the landfill.

Food waste is a huge problem around the world. In Canada, it is estimated that more than half of all of the food produced is wasted—more than 35 million tons.

At the same time, more and more Canadians are having a hard time feeding themselves because of rising food prices. And when waste food ends up in a landfill, it produces methane which is a powerful greenhouse gas.

Food recovery programs target food that grocery stores, restaurants, institutional kitchens and oth-

er sources throw out on a regular basis, even though much of it is still edible and healthy. The food is sorted and processed, and then distributed to people in the community. Food deemed unfit for human consumption can be turned into compost or used to feed farm animals.

“Most grocery stores rotate their food quickly, and that excess food often ends up in the landfill, usually because it has an expiration date that might be quite arbitrary,” said CVFF board chair Sylvia Page. “Some foods are still good even two weeks after the expiration date.”

One need only look down the road to Kimberley to see the major impact that a food recovery program can make. In five years, the depot there has diverted more than 450,000 pounds (204,116 kilograms) of food. The group relies on a huge amount of volunteer effort to process the food and works closely with social service agencies to distribute it. Local chefs are also paid to turn recovered food into healthy meals. The depot is also open to the general public one day per week.

Establishing a food recovery program is a complex undertaking which will involve a great deal of coordination. CVFF has established a sub-committee, Nourish Columbia Valley, to meet this goal. The Columbia Valley Food Bank, which already recovers food from some stores, is represented on this committee, as are other community members.

CVFF plans to host a public forum bringing to-

gether the different groups necessary for a dynamic food recovery system. It will be a chance to learn from other communities, such as Kimberley and Cranbrook that already have successful programs in place.

“In Canada, there are still a lot of people who go hungry every day. We also have many farmers and producers who are producing goods and services that may not be fully utilized,” said Page. “Wasted food ends up in the landfill when it could be feeding hungry residents. Our hope is to establish a viable food recovery system that would benefit all members of the Columbia Valley.”

More information on this topic can be found on the website of Second Harvest, Canada’s largest food recovery organization, and on the Government of Canada’s website at Canada.ca/content/dam/eccc/ food-loss-and-waste.

LAND ACT Notice of Application for a Disposition of Crown Land Take notice that I/We, Larry Cooper and Kerry Lee Peacock-Cooper, from Foothills, AB, have applied to the British Columbia Ministry of Forests (FOR), Kootenay Boundary Region, for a Licence of Occupation for Residential (Historic Fill) purpose situated on Provincial Crown Foreshore located in the vicinity of Fairmont, BC. FOR invites comments on this application, the Lands File is 4406428. Written comments concerning this application should be directed to Sr. Authorization Specialist, FOR, Kootenay Boundary Region, at 1902 Theatre Road, Cranbrook, BC V1C 7G1. Comments will be received by FOR up to December 21, 2023. FOR may not be able to consider comments received after this date. Please visit the website at http://comment.nrs.gov.bc.ca/ for more information.

Be advised that any response to this advertisement will be considered part of the public record. Access to these records requires the submission of a Freedom of Information (FOI) request. Visit http://www.gov.bc.ca/freedomofinformation to learn more about FOI submissions.

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Sylvia Page is chair of Columbia Valley Food and Farm that sees food security as paramount.

PHOTO COURTESY OF CVFF

PUBLIC NOTICE As part of Canfor’s Forest Stewardship Council Certification and Sustainable Forest Management Plan, 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 Gilnockie Ck area

Landscape Unit/ Location C09/ Yahk

Binguay Ck Area, Binguay Creek Wildfire

C23/West Elk River

Englishman Ck/Lk, Chain of Lakes area, Sink 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

Carroll Ck, Mission Ck

K02/Little Moyie River

Hawkins/Yahk Face, 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 Mud Creek North

Landscape Unit/ Location I10 / Nine Mile

South Whitetail Mt.

I12 Doctor

Whitetail Mountain

I14 / Brewer

Contact Brian Feeney, RFT @ 250-347-6655 or email at brian.feeney@canfor.com Forest License A18979 - Radium – no proposed areas Tree Farm License 14 - Parson – no proposed areas Please contact the appropriate Planner at the numbers listed above to arrange a mutually agreeable time to review the plans. Comments received prior to Friday December 22nd, 2023 will be considered prior to final plan preparation.

NOVEMBER 30, 2023

THE COLUMBIA VALLEY PIONEER

BEYOND

19

DISTRICT OF INVERMERE

THE BLUE LINE

914 – 8th Avenue, PO Box 339 Invermere, BC V0A 1K0 Tel: (250) 342-9281 Fax: (250) 342-2934

PUBLIC NOTICE TRAFFIC PATTERN CHANGES IMPACTING USE OF FORT POINT BRIDGE

Rockies forward Kyran Gromnisky (left) faces off against a Kelowna Chiefs rival in last Friday’s home game.

PHOTO STEPHANIE STEVENS

Rockies whip Chiefs

By Stephanie Stevens The Columbia Valley Rockies had a good weekend points-wise, adding three of four to their Kootenay International Junior Hockey League (KIJHL) standings in games against the Kelowna Chiefs and Fernie Ghostriders.

Friday Nov. 24 saw Kelowna on the ice in Eddie Mountain Memorial Arena but the Chiefs left empty handed after a 6-1 whomp-down by the Rockies.

“Friday was a big game for us to prove to ourselves that we can keep up offensively while taking care of the defensive side of the puck,” said assistant coach Tanner Wit. “It’s a good thing to learn for a young group.”

Scoring for the Rockies on Friday was Kyran Gromnisky in the first period (assists from Luke Hamilton and Teo Fath), along with Tysin Mulligan (assists from Carter Velker and Kaelan Shelton) and then Gromnisky (assist from Hamilton). Second period goals were courtesy of Shelton (assists from Mulligan and Velker) on a power play followed by Velker (assists from Mulligan and Shelton). Carter Krause added one more to the tally in the third (assists from Gromnisky and Hamilton).

Netminder Jaiden Jakubowski kept 30 of 31 shots at bay.

Saturday in the Fernie Memorial Arena saw the Rockies start slow, something head coach Tayler Sincennes felt cost them the 4-3 game.

“They (Fernie) scored two in the first 10 minutes of the game and we did a good job of battling back, but we wouldn’t need to if we started better,” he said.

Wit added that Fernie is a tough place to play for the first time, a senti-

ment echoed by associate coach Tucker Braund.

“They (the players) are learning the league and they even have to learn about the arenas,” said Braund.

“Playing in Fernie is tough because it’s a small sheet with a lot of good fans . . . it’s intimidating at first, but we eventually got used to it. We did a good job of battling back, even getting the lead.”

Goalie Nate Glenn kept 35 of 39 shots on goal out, but Fernie managed to get one more past him for an overtime win.

A nod to Tysin Mulligan is due as he took his spot at the British Columbia Hockey Prospects game on Tuesday, Nov. 28 at the McArthur Park Arena in Kamloops.

“It’s a nice nod of attention for him,” said Braund. “He was a late Saskatchewan Junior Hockey League cut and he’s showing people he is a top player in this league at 18. He’s working hard and learning different parts of the game. He is a very good skater with a high hockey IQ and great skill set.”

Wit and Sincennes expressed similar sentiments.

“Mulligan is a great kid who deserves the opportunity to go and showcase his talent at the prospects game,” said Wit. “We are proud of him and what he’s accomplished so far this season.”

“He’s worked hard and deserves the honour of representing our club and community there,” added Sincennes.

The Rockies were in the Eddie Tuesday, Nov. 28 hosting the Golden Rockets and will be back in their home arena again Friday, Dec. 1 to square off with Fernie. They have a 3 p.m. matchup on Sunday against the Creston Valley Thunder Cats.

The District of Invermere is in the process of making changes to the Fort Point Bridge on 4th Avenue (shown on the illustration below).

Vehicle traffic will not be permitted within 1.5 metres of the sidewalk, and the bridge will operate with a single lane of traffic only. The changes are recommended in a recent engineering report received following the annual bridge inspection and are needed for public safety until a replacement bridge is constructed. Motorists may continue to use the Fort Point Bridge provided the traffic pattern changes described below are followed: • Motor Vehicles must keep at least 1.5 metres away from the pedestrian sidewalk located on the east side of the bridge. A set of barriers will be placed near the North and South ends of the bridge to help motorists keep motor vehicles near the centre line of the road.

• Maximum Gross Vehicle Weight (GVW) of 9 tonnes (including towed trailers) on the bridge at any time.

• Speed limit of 30 km/hr for all motor vehicles approaching and crossing the bridge.

Please pay careful attention to the changes and yield to oncoming traffic when approaching the Fort Point Bridge. The District of Invermere apologizes in advance for any traffic delays or disruptions that these important changes to motor vehicle movements may impose on the public.

If you have any questions or concerns about the changes to the movement of motor vehicles over the Fort Point Bridge, please contact the District of Invermere by telephone 250-342-9281 or by email to: info@invermere.net Angela MacLean, P.Eng.

Director of Public Works & Operations

Andrew Young, MCIP, RPP Chief Administrative Officer

20

THE COLUMBIA VALLEY PIONEER

Light Up boosts festive spirit

NOVEMBER 30, 2023

Columbia Valley

Churches 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

If the spirit of Christmas wasn’t apparent last week, it certainly was in Invermere on November 25 during the community Light Up. Along with fun activities, the annual parade got people in the mood for the holidays.

PHOTOS CORTNEY PITTS RIGHT PHOTO CVSAR

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

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