Columbia Valley Pioneer - September 21, 2023

Staff housing in industrial park gets TUP

By Steve Hubrecht steve@columbiavalleypioneer.com

A plan to convert office space in the Athalmer industrial park into employee housing has stirred up controversy.

Invermere council voted to give the building owner a temporary use permit (TUP) for the proposed staff housing, but other business owners and managers in the area voiced their opposition to the move. The application came from Invermere Mayor and Home Hardware owner Al Miller. He made the application in his role as Home Hardware owner, not in his capacity as mayor, and he was in fact absent from last week’s Invermere council meeting on Tuesday, Sept. 12 when the TUP was discussed.

Home Hardware purchased the building, which once housed local wood framing and manufacturing company Dusk Building Systems Ltd.

wandering around an industrial area, especially at night will increase the crime which is already increasing. If it happens renters have kids, it would be very dangerous for them. Keep residential residential and industrial industrial.”

The second letter opposed was from Dusk Building Systems general manager Sheldon Mose, who wrote that “in conversation with other local businesses in the area, no one is happy with the idea of bringing more permanent residents to the area. More people in the area only increases the already significant problem of vandalism and stolen property. The added stress of full-time residents showering and living on the existing weak infrastructure would be a concern. There is a shortage of industrial space in town, use it for its intended purpose.”

Mose added “However, I see that work has already begun on the conversion, so I'm sure that this proposal will be carried through. All while our proposal for more industrial development land is met with opposition.”

“Because we have a shortage of rentals for our staff and others, we would like to turn the front office area into shared living with four bedrooms. We will be leasing out the shop portion and land separately. I would like to use the TUP for this, and see how it all works out,” wrote Miller in the application to council. “If it does not work out as planned, we can always use the renovated area for an office in the future. But right now, I need to get people into a safe home.”

During the meeting Invermere planner Rory Hromadnik outlined to council that the accommodation would be “essentially dorm-style, with four bedrooms, a shared bathroom and a shared kitchen.” Hromadnik noted that even though the Athalmer industrial park is not zoned residentially, some caretaker suites have historically existed there, not all of them legally. He added the district received two letters opposed to the application (both from other industrial park business owners) and one in support. The one in support was received after the deadline for inclusion with council meeting documents, and so was not available to the public at the time of the meeting.

The first of the two letters opposed came from Lakeland Contracting owner Rick Luyendyk, who wrote “I feel this is a mistake. It would be like the hostel in Athalmer which seems to generate transients and crime. Having more people

The last comment is in reference to an application Dusk Building Systems, which has moved to a new location in the Athalmer industrial park, made earlier this year, to lease Crown land next to its new site in order to expand its wood manufacturing operations. Invermere council did not assent to the move, citing environmental concerns. The matter came up again this summer at a committee of the whole meeting in July and at the time, when asked about the situation, Miller said staff were engaging with the province to discuss next steps.

Another Athalmer business owner — Warwick Enterprises Ltd. owner Dave Tomalty — was in the audience during the Sept. 12 meeting. He outlined many of the same concerns as Luyendyk and Mose did in their letters, and added that many other business operators in Athalmer also feel the same.

“We’re really opposed to allowing any residential space in the industrial park. We really do have very limited commercial space there,” Tomalty told council.

“It’s (the four bedrooms) different than the caretaker suites. This is staff accommodation in Athalmer for a business that is not in Athalmer (Home Hardware is located on Shuswap Band land by the crossroads).”

Tomalty in particular expressed skepticism that a TUP for four people would translate to just four people living in Athalmer. “We know that just doesn’t happen. It will start with four and before you know it, you’ll have 20. You just can’t control it,” he said. “Look at AirBnBs. How have we done with limiting AirBnBs?”

Continued on page 5

Screenshot from Invermere council documents showing the location of the Athalmer building containing the office that will be converted into staff housing for four people.

“We’re really opposed to allowing any residential space in the industrial park.”

Business

owner Dave Tomalty

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Man, 26, presumed drowned

ExteriorCleaning

Columbia Valley Pioneer staff

The Columbia Valley RCMP is working with search and rescue crews to locate a 26-year-old man who is presumed drowned on Lake Windermere.

On September 16 at approximately 3:10 p.m., police received a call for assistance after a man had gone in the water off a rental pontoon boat and did not resurface. The RCMP, Windermere firefighters and members of Columbia Valley Search and Rescue (CVSAR) attended

RCMP Report

Sgt. Ed DeJong Columbia

Valley RCMP

If you have a good snapshot to share, please send it to: admin@columbiavalleypioneer.com

This past week, September 11 to 18, the Columbia Valley RCMP responded to 81 calls for service. The following is a summary of some of the files our officers responded to:

Twenty-one per cent of calls for service related to traffic complaints and/or motor vehicle collisions.

the area but were not able to locate the male. An aerial helicopter search was also conducted.

Police Sgt. Ed DeJong said an RCMP underwater recovery team began searching on Monday, which included a lake bottom search. As of Tuesday, there was no further update from the RCMP.

Anyone with information about this incident is urged to call the Columbia Valley RCMP at 250-3429292.

With the paving project on Hwy 93/95 between Windermere and Canal Flats, along with the imminent closing of Hwy 1 and re-routing of traffic through Kootenay National Park and Hwy 95 to Golden, we are asking members of the public to be patient and abide by the posted speed limits.

These temporary inconveniences are required to continue to improve the highway system in our area.

The Columbia Valley RCMP and search and rescue crews have been trying to locate a 26-year-old man who is presumed drowned on Lake Windermere.

Housing TUP approved despite opposition

Continued from page 3

He cited security risks, noting concern over this was almost nonexistent among Athalmer business owners decades ago, but has been on the rise in the past few years.

Tomalty also pointed to safety concerns for the residents who would be living in the industrial park, noting that it is simply not designed as a place for people to live (“if you are familiar with the industrial park, you are familiar with the risks,” he said). And he also said that, to be fair to everybody, there should be consistency in zoning and land use, saying that people who bought land for commercial purpos-

es in the industrial park likely assumed it would stay a commercial and industrial area without permanent residents.

“If I went and put up a wood shop right next to the Station Pub, things would explode,” said Tomalty, adding the same principle should apply the other way around.

“It is an interesting conversation,” said Invermere councillor Gerry Taft. “Compared to many industrial parks, ours is very light industrial. There are businesses in our industrial park, such as a crossfit gym that you wouldn’t find in a heavy industrial park. Unfortunately a lot of space down there is used, it seems, just to store

boats . . . there’s a lot of junk sitting down there and not a lot of employment being generated from it.”

But, on the other hand, Taft did share some of Tomalty’s concerns, saying he could see how an employee might suddenly have a partner living with them, or perhaps a kid or pets.

“It’s hard to argue against staff housing, but I do agree you don’t want to have 12 people hanging out there. We need to make sure that in trying to solve a problem we don’t create another problem.”

In response to the concerns, Invermere councillors made some amendments to the TUP, specifying that the TUP has

a strict limit for four people only, each in one bedroom, and those four people must each be employed by the building owner, or associated businesses, through a formal staff rental agreement.

The TUP is for three years, but councillors agreed to review it after one year, in case issues do arise.

With those amendments, councillors voted unanimously to approve the TUP.

“The housing situation is dire. These four spots in the industrial park are four more than we would otherwise have. Those four people will be really grateful,” said Invermere councillor Theresa Wood.

District field trip policy worries parents

By Lyonel Doherty lyonel@aberdeenpublishing.com

An updated policy affecting field trips in Rocky Mountain School District No. 6 is worrying some parents who fear that outdoor education for children may be compromised. But senior board officials say the intent is to mitigate the risks and to ensure the safety of all students.

The board discussed the issue last week at its regular meeting where the policy (under third reading) outlines the rules and regulations surrounding field trips, including supervisor-to-student ratios which are a bone of contention for some parents and guardians.

Field trips are divided into three categories: outdoor classroom activities (short walking trips), lower-care (farm visits, ice skating), and higher-care excursions (skiing, mountain biking, and rock climbing that require special safety considerations).

In the 2022-2023 school year, there were nearly 900 lower-care and higher-care field trips (not including outdoor classroom activities) taken in the district. Of the 883 field trips, 125 were higher care (14 per cent) and 758 were lower care (86 per cent). These trips included visiting lakes, parks, and museums, as well as participating in Indigenous learning opportunities.

It is noted that downhill skiing is only offered to students beginning in Grade 4.

The supervisor-to-student ratio for lower-care trips are 1:6 for kindergarten to Grade 3, 1:10 for Grade 4 to 7, and 1:15 for Grade 8 to 12. The ratios for higher-care trips are 1:4 (K-3), 1:6 (Grade 4-7), and 1:8 (Grade 8-12).

Katrina Chapman, secretary of the Eileen Madson Primary Parent Advisory Council (EMP PAC), told the Pioneer that parents don’t recall being consulted about the policy with a clear understanding of the ramifications. She also pointed out that the committee received no response from the board to a succinct letter it sent

earlier this year.

Chapman said the EMP PAC membership feels that a downhill skiing trip at the Grade 2 and 3 level could be appropriately managed to score an acceptable rating. “We also believe that the mental and physical health of this age group would benefit from participating in this popular outdoor activity,” she said, adding the PAC is concerned that many activities, particularly outdoor activities, will soon be out of reach to many children and families, for whom some of these activities are cost prohibitive to access.

Chapman said they had multiple quality discussions with the school principal, noting that it is at the district level that parents do not feel adequately represented.

“The complete lack of response from the district even acknowledging that they received our letter only resulted in parents feeling that our voices and relevant concerns do not matter to the current administration.”

She also noted that parents understand they have a role to play in risk mitigation to support continuing the annual ski trip for Grade 2 and 3 students. In the end, however, a decision was made to cancel the trip, citing staff comfort levels and other assessed factors.

Chapman said that the PAC respects the reasons behind this decision, noting that current teachers don’t want to take on that kind of risk and responsibility. She also pointed out that the historical nature of these ski trips, having been successful and safely executed in the past, demonstrate they are feasible, safe, and beneficial to the children.

The letter that the PAC sent to the board alluded to Windermere Elementary School planning a downhill skiing trip, whereas Edgewater Elementary School was denied, causing the perception of bias and whether the policy is subjective.

The PAC went on to say: “If we are not supporting our children to explore the opportunities that come with rural life, many which are generally seen as more risky than those in urban centres, our children are really at a

disadvantage and are not provided with the education and skills necessary for life in the Columbia Valley.”

The letter clearly supports ski trips for Grades 2 and 3 due to the benefits they offer to physical and emotional development. The PAC advocates ski trips where students are given lessons facilitated by trained instructors, adding that there would be plenty of parent volunteers to support the ratios.

District Superintendent of Schools Karen Shipka told the Pioneer that the policy is not intended to prevent field trips but to ensure that those planning them are aware of the potential risks. She noted the ratio recommendations (based on research), are flexible and there are options to mitigate the risks to students. These may include increasing supervision, changing a location or including specialized training. Continued on page 7

Christmas Bureau meeting Tuesday,September26,2023-6:30pm

ChristTrinityChurch 1107thAve,Invermere,BC SeeourFacebookpageformoredetails.

SATURDAY8.00AM TO4.00PM

SUNDAYCLOSED

Sorryforanyinconvenience.

Animal society grateful for aid

As the days on the calendar approach Thanksgiving, two main thoughts come to mind for the members and staff of Invermere Companion Animal Network Society (ICAN).

Forgive us if our first is for the animals: Please remember that garlic, onions, and bones have detrimental effects on our two most prolific furry friends – dogs and cats. At best, they can cause stomach upset, vomiting and diarrhea. At worst, they can cause intestinal blockage and damage to organs which can be irreversible. Please keep that in mind when including your companions in the feasting.

This is also the time we reflect on what we have accomplished and where we have yet to go; to thank all those who have helped us along the way and who will provide the means to move forward.

ICAN received its BC registered society certificate and its Canada Revenue Agency tax receipt number in 2009, but our kitchen-table beginnings go back to 2007. Since then, ICAN has transitioned over 1,500 animals, including rats, rabbits, guinnea pigs, hamsters, pigs, ducks, goslings and reptiles as well as dogs and cats of all ages. There have been heart-warming success stories and a few tear-jerkers who crossed the rainbow bridge and are still remembered.

Some of the highlights of our past: We arranged to have a companion transported to Vancouver Island when it was found after the guardian moved, having had to leave without locating it. We relocated a “Manx-syndrome” tri-pod cat to Best Friends, where it was successfully re-homed. We sent a kitten with a heart murmur for

medical assessment in Calgary where it found aid and a “furr-ever” home with veterinary staff. We booked surgical correction for a kitten with a severely luxating patella to prevent her being crippled. She still has a stiff leg but otherwise lives an active life in a loving home.

We currently have six special needs cats who require regulated diets and medication, but all are thriving. And there are still feral colonies that need addressing; companion animals that need re-homing because current guardians must move to new residences that have no-pet policies, and companions with unwanted litters which will need care and guardians.

Throughout all of the ups and downs, the people of the Columbia Valley have extended care, concern, helping hands and encouraging words. The vets, their techs, and receptionists; the business owners, farmers, and groundsmen; visitors and school children; shop workers, and entrepreneurs alike; millwrights, construction workers, electricians, plumbers, carpenters, masons, weekend gardeners, and avid adventurers of all stripes have been forthcoming with time, energy, funds and in-kind aid.

Each and every bit has helped provide our charges with food, shelter, medical aid, behavioural and emotional needs so that they go to loving adoptive homes as healthy, well-adjusted companions.

Hundreds of loved, animated, carefree, insane, goofy, murder-clawed, fuzzy balled “hooligans” thank you. From the bottom of every furry little floof ball’s heart, we thank you.

Invermere Companion Animal Network Society

Student safety top priority, board says

Continued from page 5

The superintendent pointed out that multiple outdoor learning experiences take place in the district every week in order to take advantage of the Columbia Valley’s beautiful locations.

But parent Mike Caswell from Invermere sees the updated policy as severely limiting the ability for students to take part in field trips under the “guise” of managing risk. He is specifically concerned about the board singling out skiing as a banned activity for students in K-3.

“The policy makes it harder to get classes outdoors,” he says, noting that complex forms and excessive supervision ratios contribute to a “crippling parasitic drag on the classroom.”

Caswell points out that outdoor education improves kids’ mental health, academic performance and behaviour management.

In a feedback report to the board, another individual raised a concern about the policy, saying it appears to be “over the top.” They wrote that risk is necessary for social development and these field trips have been conducted for years with little to no issues. “Wrapping kids in bubble wrap is not giving the next generation a leg up.”

School board chair Amber Byklum told the Pioneer they acknowledge the concerns, clarifying the ratios do not affect trips that are an extension of the classroom, such as walks to the community garden or the museum.

“Where we need extra care and caution is for the low risk and higher care field trips that can pose some bigger safety issues if not planned correctly,” Byklum said, adding that having sufficient supervisor ratios is a major factor in mitigating issues for teachers.

“The ratios are not far from what teachers and principals would have asked for in the past to ensure their students were well looked after for the higher-risk type field trips.”

The chair continued by saying the district and the field trip committee will always work with teachers and principals to ensure that field trips take place.

Byklum said she can’t speak to field trips that are only approved by principals, but for the ones that are approved by the board’s field trip committee, “no, we have not declined any for lack of supervision.”

The chair stressed that student safety is always the top priority, but the board also has a responsibility to teachers to provide them with a safe and healthy work environment. “And a responsibility to parents so they know that their children are in a safe learning environment even when outside the walls of the schools.”

When asked about the perception that safety and liability have gone too far in education, Byklum said she has three children who have attended various schools in the district.

“At all times it was my expectation that the district had the safety of my child as their top priority and took

Mitigation work begins

Columbia Valley Pioneer staff

A $13.5 million debris flow mitigation project is underway in Fairmont.

The Regional District of East Kootenay (RDEK) has awarded a construction contract to MacKay Contracting from Cranbrook for the highly anticipated Cold Spring Creek Debris Flow Mitigation Project.

“There has been extensive work by staff (with support from our board) during unprecedented construction cost fluctuations to secure funding and refine the design and project scope to allow the project to move forward,” said Electoral Area F Director Susan Clovechok.

As the project site is located on property owned by Fairmont Hot Springs Resort, she said the RDEK is grateful for the company’s ongoing support and contribution to the project.

There are four key components to the project: a barrier and outlet structure to capture debris; a creek diversion and basin for debris storage behind the barrier; rein-

forcement and relocation of some of the water lines that service the community of Fairmont; and construction of an access road.

Brian Funke, RDEK manager of engineering, said the first priorities for construction will be focused on the access road, water main relocation, creek diversion, basin excavation and starting the outlet structure. Later in 2024, the concrete debris barrier and outlet structure will be built.

“Throughout the course of the construction, the work area will be closed to the public for the safety of both the public and workers,” Funke noted

As the work is expected to start this week, the most noticeable impacts within Fairmont will be an increase in traffic, according to the RDEK. To help mitigate this, there will be signage posted and flaggers when necessary; however, the RDEK is urging residents to use extra caution throughout the construction phase.

The project is expected to be complete by the end of 2024.

all the steps to ensure they were safe because I didn’t have eyes and hands on them as they were skiing down a ski slope.”

She said if a concerned parent was to look at the safety plans the board has in place they would feel extremely satisfied that their child would be safe on their first day of rock climbing, mountain biking, hiking, skiing, kayaking, survival camping or travelling abroad.

Photo by Getty Images

Cold Spring Creek debris flow in 2020. The $13.5 million mitigation work has begun.

Photo by RDEK

Invermere seeks input on STR bylaw

By Steve Hubrecht steve@columbiavalleypioneer.com

The long process of regulating shortterm rentals (STRs) took another big step closer to becoming reality last week when Invermere councillors voted to proceed with public consultations on the proposed new STR business licensing bylaw.

The consultation will take the form of a public information and engagement meetings on Thursday, Oct. 5.

The number of STR rentals in Invermere has mushroomed in recent years, and many local residents (as well as the district’s 2021 housing needs assessment) put part of the blame for the increasingly acute lack of long-term rental housing and affordable housing on the rapid rise of STRs.

Invermere has been taking steps to regulate STRs for years now, and has faced repeated criticism from some residents over what they see as the district’s slow pace of progress. They contrast Invermere’s efforts with those of the Village of Radium Hot Springs, which adopted an STR bylaw more than two years ago, and the Regional District of East Kootenay (RDEK) which adopted its STR bylaw earlier this summer.

There’s still some distance to go before Invermere adopts its bylaw, but councillors at the Tuesday, Sept. 12 council meeting were glad to be a few moves closer to that end.

Over the summer Invermere staff had consulted with STR operators and STR management firms. That consultation has not resulted in any major changes to Invermere’s proposed STR bylaw, but councillors still felt that consultation had been

worthwhile.

“It’s fair to say that it’s taken a long time to get here and most people in the public would say we should have done this some time ago,” said Invermere councillor Gerry Taft, adding he hopes the silver lining is that Invermere has learned some lessons from Radium and the RDEK, and consequently will have an easier time implementing and enforcing its STR bylaw.

“It’s easy enough for local governments to pass bylaws, it’s sometimes another thing to get them followed,” he said.

Taft pointed out one key difference between Invermere’s proposed STR bylaw and those in place in some other small towns that are big outdoor recreation destinations, such as Nelson and Tofino: In Nelson and Tofino STR licenses are only granted to people who both own the property and live on the property in which the STR is located, but Invermere’s STR bylaw will not have such a requirement.

“The Columbia Valley is unique in terms of the sheer number of second homeowners here, so it (a requirement for the owner to live on the property) doesn’t make sense,” said Taft, adding that, however, the Invermere STR bylaw will have a requirement for a property manager with contact info to be listed for each STR.

“How well do you think they (the property managers) will answer the phone at 2 a.m?” asked resident Dave Tomalty, who was in the audience gallery at the meeting.

Taft said the district needs a carrot (enticements) and stick (consequences) approach. “From what we saw, I think there are about 180 AirBnBs in Invermere — almost 100 of them are in Lake Windermere Pointe and 80 throughout the rest

of Invermere. Of those there’s probably about 10 to 12 that are causing almost all the problems,” he said, adding those problematic ones are ones that the ‘sticks’ will be needed for.

“I am still concerned about how this thing unfolds,” said Invermere resident John Rouse. “AirBnBs begin to break down what a community is . . . is there anything to address that . . . at the end of the day is this going to create more homes for the people that desperately need them today or tomorrow? I don’t think so.”

Taft replied “there isn’t an easy solution because it’s so expensive to build (homes).” He said the expenses are so great, and inflation has been so high during the past two years, that being a long-term rental landlord often no longer makes much financial sense. “In the

future it may only be government or corporations that do long-term rentals” hypothesized Taft.

Invermere Mayor Al Miller was not at the meeting. He talked with the Pioneer a few days after the meeting, and speaking on when an STR bylaw might be finished, he said “we are getting there.” More specifically he said Invermere could have an STR bylaw in place as early as late October or early November, but “that will depend on how this public consultation (on Oct. 5) goes.”

The information and engagement meetings will be held at the Columbia Valley Centre. Presentations by district staff will be at noon, 3 p.m. and 6 p.m. The district is asking would-be attendees to RSVP and register for a time slot, if possible.

Questions raised about CBT surplus amid cuts

By Steve Hubrecht steve@columbiavalleypioneer.com

At their annual general meeting last week, Columbia Basin Trust (CBT) officials faced questions from the public about cutting back funding for programs, including one query in particular about no longer giving money to outdoor and environmental education.

The topic has been bubbling in the Columbia Valley since last spring, when the CBT announced they would stop funding for environmental education programs. That created no small uproar in the valley, as it directly impacted several local nonprofit groups, including the Columbia Basin Environmental Education Network (CBEEN), the Lake Windermere Ambassadors and Wildsight. Residents turned out in droves at a community meeting in Invermere to voice their displeasure at the move.

The issue flared up again last week (as reported in the Pioneer), when the CBT released its 2023-2024 draft management plan. Local outdoor education advocates were shocked to see the plan included no mention of education at all.

The CBT’s annual general meeting was held Thursday Sept. 14 in Kaslo but residents (and the Pioneer) were

able to attend virtually. CBT president and chief executive officer Johnny Strilaeff and board chair Jocelyn Carver spoke for the first half of the meeting, while the second half of the meeting was dedicated to questions from residents (both in-person attendees and digital attendees). Most of the questions centred on the CBT’s financial position, but one touched on the topic of program cuts in a general sense.

“For every new program that launches, we have to reduce or even eliminate other existing programs,” replied Strilaeff, adding “those are difficult decisions . . . it’s complicated. There’s no specific formula.” Carver added that board decisions on which programs get prioritized are based on public feedback.

Shortly thereafter came another question, outlining that more than 1,000 people across the Columbia Basin region spoke out in the spring in favour of outdoor education, and noting that the CBT’s just released annual financial report mentions a surplus of $10 million in total, and that water and environmental initiatives specifically were $1.5 million under budget. The questioner asked if some of that surplus could go to environmental education and queried if the board could commit in a general sense to funding outdoor education.

“I think it’s a bit premature to even address that question (about committing to outdoor education funding),” said Strilaeff, adding the answer should become clear “at the end of this year or the beginning of next year.”

Strilaeff said the surplus shown in the report does not take into account the CBT’s debts that need to be repaid or loans done in partnership with Columbia Basin business.

“This (surplus) has a lot to do with timing,” he continued, adding that the CBT often enters into agreements with partners but the details are not sorted until after the financial year cutoff date. As a result “in any given year, you see some variability,” said Strilaeff, adding that in 2022 environmental and water initiatives were in fact over budget “and that was also due to timing.”

He did concede that “yes, environmental education is a priority, but it is one of many different priorities across the region.” The input during the public meeting last spring is “part of the broad bucket of input” that the board will consider, he added.

Strilaeff acknowledged that some long-running environmental education programs had to close as a result of CBT’s funding cuts, but characterized this as “a small number.”

The District of Invermere is taking another step towards regulating short-term rentals with public consultations.

Photo by Getty Images

OUTOFOFFICE…

AnalyzingtheImpact:2023ColumbiaValleyBusinessWalkResults

InJune2023,agroupofdedicatedvolunteersembarkedonamission toconductinterviewswith92businessesinthepicturesqueColumbia Valley.Thepurpose?Togainvaluableinsightsintothechallengesand opportunitiesfacedbythesebusinessesand,moreimportantly,to chartacoursefortheirgrowthandprosperity.Today,wedelveintothe resultsofthisendeavorandexplorehowtheColumbiaValleyCommunity EconomicDevelopment(CVCED)andtheColumbiaValleyChamberof Commerceplantosupportlocalbusinesses.

The2023ColumbiaValleyBusinessWalkwasacommendableeffort thatsoughttoconnectwithbusinessesacrossvarioussectors,from hospitalityandretailtoagricultureandtechnology.Volunteersengaged inmeaningfulconversationswithbusinessownersandmanagers, allowingthemtoexpresstheirconcerns,sharetheirsuccesses,and provideaglimpseintotheiraspirations.

OneofthestandoutfindingsoftheBusinessWalkwastheresilience andadaptabilityofColumbiaValleybusinesses.Despitetheongoing challengesposedbytheglobalpandemicandeconomicfluctuations,the majorityofbusinessesareexperiencingsteadyorgrowingbusiness.

Thesurveyresultsalsoshedlightonsomekeyareaswherebusinessesare seekingsupport.Itisnosurprisethatfindingemployeesandattainable housingweretopconcernsforbusinesses.Italsobecameapparentthat thereisaneedforbusinesssuccessionplanningefforts.

Toaddresstheseissues,theCVCEDandtheColumbiaValleyChamber ofCommercehaveanumberofinitiativesunderwaytosupportthese challenges.OnSeptember28at9:30am,thepublicisinvitedtoa workshopattheLakeWindermereLion’sHall.Wewilldiscusstheresults ofthebusinesswalkandwhatactionsareresultingfromit.Wewould alsoliketohearfromyou,yourideasandthoughtsonhowwecanassist

Thursday,September21

•10:00am-12:00pm:OutdoorPickleball Mt.NelsonAthleticPark,Drop-in Play.

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

•11:30am-12:00pm:LittleLambs RadiumPublicLibrary.Joinusforsongs, rhymes,andstorieswithyourbabies!Noregistrationrequired.

•2:00pm-3:00pm:Needles&Hooks.InvermereLibrary.Joinusonthe1st& 3rdThursdayofeachmonthat2:00pmforNeedles&Hooks.Bringyourcurrent yarnprojectandmeetwithothermakers.Allwelcome!

•6:30pm:IndoorPickleball InvermereCurlingClub.AdvancePlay.

•6:45pm:TexasHold‘EmPoker InvermereLegion.

•7:30pm:TriviaNight WindermereWhitehousePub.

Friday,September22

•7:00pm-10:00pm.ColumbiaValleyRockiesvsSpokaneBraves. Invermere,EddieMountainMemorialArena.Comeonoutandbepartof raisingtheRegularSeasonBannerfromthe2022-2023Season!

•10:00am-12:00pm:InvermereTennisClub attheKinsmenBeachCourts.

•10:00am-12:00pm:OutdoorPickleball Mt.NelsonAthleticPark,Drop-in Play.

•10:30am-11:00am:FamilyStorytime.InvermerePublicLibrary.Joinus weeklyonFridaysand/orSaturdaysforFamilyStorytimeatthelibrary!With stories,songs&acraft.Gearedtowardspreschoolage(2-5)butallwelcome.

•2:30pm-3:30pm:TeenConnect&Create. RadiumPublicLibrary.Connect withotherteenswhilemakingdifferentcreationseachmonth!Forages13to 18.Noregistrationrequired.

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

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

Saturday,September23

•10:00am-3:00pm:FallFest&GreatScarecrowCompetition. Invermere. JoinusfortheInvermereFarmers&ArtistsMarket,JailNBailFundrasier, fungames,familyactivities,livemusicandentertainment.TheInvermere LegionPatiowillbeopen&theLegionBBQservingbrats,hotdogs &hamburgers!ThiseventwillalsokickoftheInvermereScarecrow Competition&Tour!

•7:00pm-10:00pm:ColumbiaValleyRockiesvsPrincetonPosse. Invermere,EddieMountainMemorialArena

•10:00am-12:00pm:OutdoorPickleball Mt.NelsonAthleticPark,Drop-in Play.

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Sports court conundrum continues

a 90-day trial basis.

This came as a surprise to local teen Craig Hale, who showed up at the MNAP courts to play basketball one morning this summer, as he has most mornings for the past several summers, only to find both courts filled with pickleball players. He came back another morning and was greeted with the same situation. Hale asked when he would be able to play, and that’s when he found out the pickleball club had booked the space every morning of the week except Sundays.

that passionate about getting outside for sports, and would opt to just stay inside. He also told councillors that as he doesn’t have a driver’s licence, he can’t easily access the basketball courts at the Columbia Lake Recreation Centre at the Akisqnuk First Nations.

Pickleball is not the only game in town. At least one basketball player in Invermere is trying to get some hoop time in.

By Steve Hubrecht steve@columbiavalleypioneer.com

Conflict over recreational court space continues in Invermere.

The Invermere Pickleball Club has been booking out the Mount Nelson Athletic Park (MNAP) courts in Invermere on a trial basis throughout the summer, but the move has left at least one resident who used to regularly use the courts for morning hoops practice with nowhere to shoot.

Pickleball has exploded in popularity across the continent over the past few years, including here in the Columbia

Valley, and the Invermere Pickleball Club has been seeking dedicated outdoor court space somewhere in the district for some time. The club lobbied Invermere council passionately and extensively for such space starting in spring 2022, turning out in huge numbers at multiple council meetings to make their case.

Last spring council debated having a booking system to let various recreational user groups have guaranteed dedicated times at the district’s various recreation facilities. This summer Invermere council assented to letting the pickleball club book the MNAP courts from 9 a.m. to noon on Mondays through Saturdays, on

During last week’s Tuesday, Sept. 12 Invermere council meeting, Hale appeared as a delegation before councillors. “I can’t play in the evenings,” he explained, outlining that, like many local teens, he works a summer job during July and August. Most summer jobs for teens are in the local restaurant industry, continued Hale, which means working during the evenings.

That left Hale and his friends with the choice of playing in the early afternoons, playing only on Sundays, or not playing at all. The problem was that, with temperatures often in excess of 30 degrees Celsius during July and August, playing in the early afternoon — when the sun is at its most intense — is less than ideal, said Hale.

“It was really hot out then. I did end up playing at that time, because I’m not going to not play basketball,” he said, adding, however, that most teens are not

Speaking after the meeting, Hale told the Pioneer that given how ubiquitous phones and screens are these days “it’s way easier than ever to just stay inside all day . . . for me getting outside is just part of my life. But for some, that little bit of basketball might be all they do outside. They might spend the rest of the day inside.”

Hale said that having one user group book out both courts “six out of seven mornings a week over the summer holidays does seem a bit unfair.” He suggested that perhaps the pickleball players could book both courts for exclusive use two mornings a week over the summer, or they could book one court for exclusive use four mornings a week and leave the other court open to other user groups.

Councillor Grant Kelly emphasized that the 90 days was just a trial. It was only a temporary arrangement because “we anticipated there could be issues . . . we’ve had a few of these comments,” said Kelly. Fellow councillor Gerry Taft added, “the ultimate solution is more court space. Multi-use courts or multi-use facilities sound good in theory, but really what we’ve seen is that everybody wants their own dedicated time.”

Elder video series created

By Julia Magsombol Local Journalism Initiative julia@columbiavalleypioneer.com

The Columbia Valley Métis Association (CVMA) is making a short video series about Métis elders.

"We want to share the stories of our elders — our local Métis elders that have lived in the Columbia Valley for a long time,” said CVMA community coordinator Kelsey Prichard. “They can share the story of their family and how they got here . . . it could also be stories, like their memories of childhood or what it was like growing up as a Métis person."

Elders who want to take part in the video project can contact the CVMA. "They can share whatever is important to them," Prichard noted.

She said there will be an interviewing

process and filming included. The CVMA has been planning this project for almost a year, and this would be their first video project.

"Hopefully, it's something that we can showcase on our website or play in our Métis spaces. We want to honour our elders and their stories in their lives," Prichard said.

The filming and interviewing will take place in the following months. Prichard explained that the video will be available next year.

"We can [hopefully] feel the honours of our elders and respectfully share their stories. It'll give us some insight into how everyone got here," she added. "I hope the younger folks involved learn something."

All Métis elders can participate by contacting the CVMA at columbiavalleycc@mnbc.ca or by calling 250-270-0291.

Photo by Getty Images

Elders of the Columbia Valley Métis Association will be the topic of a video series focusing on family.

Photo by Getty Images

‘Practice Differently’ new campaign for CSFS

By Julia Magsombol Local Journalism Initiative julia@columbiavalleypioneer.com

The Carrier Sekani Family Services (CSFS) presents 'Practice Differently,' a new recruitment campaign that focuses on representing the meaningful work that CSFS does. This is supported by a short story advertisement video that was released on Sept. 13.

"Our services are holistic, and they are meaningful. And so we wanted this video to portray that to potential applicants," said Marlaena Mann, the executive director of Communications and Technology at CSFS.

The CSFS is an organization that offers different services to First Nations people. These include health, child, family, legal and research services, which they have been offering for the past 30 years. Many of these services have been “swept under the rug” through colonization for a long time, according to elders.

The end goal is to empower Indigenous Peoples and First Nations to thrive.

Mann explained that the idea of producing a video came from the CSFS.

"We are growing, and we need more nurses, doctors, social workers, lawyers, and all of the professions. We need more people to help both from our communities, as well as allies to be able to help us to do the good work that we do," she said.

The video, entitled “Sarah’s Story,” is three minutes long. It follows a young Carrier girl from her birth until her growth into adulthood — but it also follows her grandmother, who was there for her from the beginning.

Family night

By Julia Magsombol Local Journalism Initiative julia@columbiavalleypioneer.com

On Sept. 27 the Columbia Valley Métis Association (CVMA) will have a family connection night, where there will be resources and information available for the community.

"[The] family connections workers are coming to the Columbia Valley to explain what different services are available through the Métis Nation of British Columbia (MNBC)," said Kelsey Prichard, the community coordinator of the CVMA.

The free event will occur at Little Badgers Learning Centre at 5:30 p.m. There will be a free meal provided. Some of the early learning program services that will be provided are the child care benefit and the connection to Métis culture.

Prichard added there is support for finding other Métis citizens that live in the valley, and for forming connections with, and for building relationships with, other Métis citizens.

She said "it's not just for folks that use Little Badgers daycare; it's for anyone interested in learning about Métis family connections." She noted they want to get as many Métis-identifying people as possible to come and listen and hear about the programs and services available.

Prichard explained that Little Badgers noticed that a few families identify as Métis, but they don't have their Métis citizenship yet. "This night is to encourage people to start the application process so they can access these awesome programs and services available to them," she noted. "It should be an informative night."

For more information, visit https://www.facebook. com/CVM2014.

While the story evolves around them, various interactions with CSFS staff, their nurses, social workers, and legal services are helping the young girl and providing for her needs.

The video portrays the significance of CSFS to those who access their services. It also shows how the workers are impacted successfully and meaningfully.

"The storyline touches on different points in a person's life because our services go from cradle to grave throughout the life cycle model. And so we wanted to highlight different touch points as to where our services might touch someone and their life during their journey," Mann noted.

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The video took two years of planning, which included working with 6ix Sigma Productions to produce. The story arc came from Mary Teegee, the executive director of CSFS.

"It was based on some stories we want to share for our jurisdiction work because we're currently going through a project to re-assume the legal jurisdiction over Child and Family Services,” Mann said, adding how proud she feels about this meaningful project. “A lot of people worked hard to make it happen . . . the entire goal of our organization is to empower our 11 member nations. Through this campaign, we hope to attract the right talent to help us realize that goal."

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What is flowing into Lake Windermere?

Watershed Wanderings

By Lake Windermere Ambassadors

In addition to the Columbia River, there are several feeder tributaries that recharge Lake Windermere. The quality and quantity of water entering lakes from tributaries are influenced by the geology, activities, and infrastructure of the watershed they flow over or through.

A watershed is the entire area of land that first receives water, then moves it to a common place of deposition, such as a lake. It is more than just the immediate land surrounding a waterbody. It represents a much larger area than one usually considers.

An undisturbed watershed can purify and buffer against environmental impacts and small amounts of pollution. However, when poor land use practices occur in watersheds, it can affect the water quality and quantity of the downstream environment.

The Lake Windermere watershed drains approximately 1,325 km2 of land under a variety of uses, including railroads, highways, housing developments, golf courses, agricultural areas, ski hills, marinas, mining, septic and wastewater, wells and groundwater, logging and forestry zones, grasslands, campgrounds, and beaches. Water flowing across or through these different types of landscapes can pick up material and then deposit it into our lake. The most concerning input is pollution.

The Government of Canada and of British Columbia classify environmental contamination into two main categories - point source and non-point source (NPS) pollution. Briefly, point source pollution enters the environment from an easily identified and confined place (such as a pipe from a wastewater treatment plant, a sep-

tic system leak, a factory or industrial plant, municipal landfills, and runoff from a highway).

A non-point source pollution generally is the release of contaminants that are carried over a broader area by rain or snow melt before depositing into lakes, rivers, wetlands, coastal and ground waters. They are often an accumulation of pollution from multiple sources. This polluted runoff is usually a result of urban and land development, residential and agricultural runoff, forestry practices, stormwater and sewer leakages and outflows, infrastructure drainage or seepage, boating and marina activities, and environmental alteration.

A Land Use Table prepared by the Ministry of Forests, Lands, Natural Resource Operations and Rural

Development (found on our website) identifies forested land as the dominant land use in the Lake Windermere watershed. Open range, agriculture, and lakeshore residential are also identified in smaller amounts.

NPS pollution may be a problem in certain areas of the Lake Windermere watershed, but little is known about its source and what impact it may be having on our lake.

In a preliminary land use survey previously conducted by the Lake Windermere Ambassadors (see our website) areas of concern and potential sources of non-point source pollution were identified as follows: golf courses and resorts, residential properties and developments, agricultural land, which may include greenhouses, nurseries, ranches, and hobby farms; highways, bridges and other urban structures and developments, septic and sewer systems, marinas, boating practices, and gas docks, storm drains and ponds.

Concerns include the proximity to Lake Windermere and surrounding tributaries, the use of fertilizer, herbicides and pesticides, bacteria and nutrient runoff from pet and livestock waste, oil, grease and toxic chemicals from recreational practices and urban runoff, heavy metals from motor vehicles and finally, sediment transport.

The impacts of non-point source pollution can range from minimal to astronomical for Lake Windermere, a water body that has seen a large variety of land use and an accelerated increase in development.

It is evident that further investigation and surveying is needed.

For tips you can take to minimize pollution in your watershed and for sources consulted in this article please refer to our website www.lakeambassadors.ca

Heat, wind pushed fire

Columbia Valley Pioneer staff

Increased fire behaviour has been seen on the Horsethief Creek wildfire due to hot, dry and windy conditions.

Although the fire is still being held, the BC Wildfire Service reported an uptick in fire behaviour last weekend.

“The fire is burning within the existing perimeter at high elevation and has found pockets of previously unburned fuels . . . smoke is now visible from Radium, Invermere and surrounding areas,” the BCWS noted.

The new fire behaviour continued through the weekend as the hot, dry

weather pattern persisted. The fire is burning between natural containment features (slide paths and rock scree slopes), but no structures or infrastructure are immediately threatened. Fire crews will continue to monitor the situation over the coming days.

An area restriction is still in effect in the vicinity of the Mia Creek wildfire. Even when an area restriction is not in effect, the public must stay out of active fire areas.

Public interference in firefighting operations is dangerous and impedes the ability to work efficiently, effectively and safely.

File photo

Fire behaviour in the Horsethief Creek wildfire increased last weekend due to heat and wind. The fire is still being held.

Photo by BCWS

T&R Day at the library

language led by Robyn and Tisha Tardif

Indigenous speakers keep audience rapt

By Julia Magsombol Local Journalism Initiative julia@columbiavalleypioneer.com

Invermere’s Four Points Books presents their September Speaker Series, featuring three leaders from the local Indigenous Peoples.

“Leading into Truth & Reconciliation Day, we wanted to help our community learn more about the Indigenous Peoples with whom we share the Columbia Valley,” said bookstore owner Grant Hofer.

The Speaker Series featured senior Métis representative Debra Fisher on Sept. 14. The next event in the series will be held Sept. 28 at 6:30 p.m and includes representatives from Secwépemc and K’tunaxa nations Everyone is welcome to attend for free and can register in advance online.

Fisher, who is the regional director of Métis Nation BC (Region 4) and past president of the Columbia Valley Métis Association (CVMA), discussed the definition of “Truth and Reconciliation.”

One of the topics she shared was the connection between the government and citizens.

“I would have to say that reconciliation is stronger from the people than it ever will be from the government. It’s action. It’s the action that will heal us. Not the words of the government,” Fisher said last Thursday.

As a respected Métis elder and educator, Fisher’s past and current work also focuses on making the educational system better for the youth of today.

She mentioned there are a lot of students from her past that are being missed and not being recognized.

Fisher had a job in a high school years ago and admitted that she knew some students who committed suicide. And through them, they are the reason why she’s here right now and advocating for many youth.

“I would do absolutely everything in

my life to make sure that no First Nations child would get left behind as their story is important, each and every one of them,” she added.

Hofer said Fisher’s presentation was very special, noting, “she’s had a tremendous impact on our community . . . the stories she shared about her life, her family and her people were both engaging and insightful. It was honest and – at times –raw. Her openness was very well received.”

On Sept. 28, two Indigenous councillors, Mark Thomas from Kenpesq’t (Shuswap Band of the Secwépemc people) and Lillian Rose from Akisqnuk (K’tunaxa) First Nation, will speak.

Hofer said, “this has been a great experience so far and one we hope to repeat going forward. We are all fortunate to be living on the sacred and unceded territory of the Secwépemc and K’tunaxa Peoples, and the chosen home of the Métis. We look forward to learning more about their perspectives on our valley and truth and reconciliation.”

Hofer said the main goal of the speaker series is to learn more about the Indigenous Peoples of the Columbia Valley.

“In addition to telling us about their people, we asked each speaker to address how truth and reconciliation relates to their members and provide thoughts about the future.”

The idea to host the speaker series came from Hofer and his wife, who have many other events in the works, featuring local experts in the valley. “Our community is full of amazing people doing great things, and we’d like to help them share their stories,” said Hofer.

The book lover shared his thoughts on Truth and Reconciliation Day.

“It means acknowledging that, as Canadians, we bear responsibility for righting the many mistakes made with our Indigenous Peoples . . . I certainly don’t know what the path to reconciliation looks like, but I believe it starts with compassion, understanding and authentic engagement.”

This week’s column was written by Blair McFarlane, Community Outreach Programmer for the Invermere Public Library, which is located at 201 7th Avenue. Visit their website or call 250-342-6416 for more information.

September 30 is the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation. This became a national holiday in response to the Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada’s Call to Action # 80. This is a day to honour First Nations, Inuit and Métis survivors of residential schools, their families and communities, as well as honouring those who never returned home.

While this is a statutory holiday, the Invermere Library will remain open on the 30th to help support learning and to encourage our community to hold the “truth” of this country’s history of residential schools and how that harmful legacy continues today. (We will be closed on Monday, Oct. 2 for the stat in lieu). With a variety of events taking place, there is a chance for all ages to come and learn alongside us.

Events at the Invermere Library on September 30:

• 10:30 am: Storytime featuring Indigenous books, including Phyllis Webstad’s story and how Sept. 30 became Orange Shirt Day. While not shying away from the topic at hand, it will be appropriate for our regular Storytime age group (3-5+).

• 11 am: Special Every Child Matters

communal craft with Tisha Tardif

• 11:30 am: Intro to Secwepemctsin

We are incredibly grateful to have Robyn and Tisha Tardif, members of Kenpesq’t (Shuswap Band) and recent graduates of the Stselxméms r Secwépemc (Secwépemc Knowledge Institute) Secwépemc Language Proficiency Diploma Program, to teach us a few words of Secwepemctsin. This workshop will be for all ages, and we will learn a few basic words, including language for our local area/mountains/rivers etc.

• 2 pm: Book discussion on Bob Joseph’s 21 Things You May Not Know About the Indian Act

In the afternoon, we are hosting a discussion that will follow the teachings in Bob Joseph’s 21 Things You May Not Know about the Indian Act. We have copies of the book available to borrow at the library. This is a great read that tackles the complex issues around the Indian Act in a digestible, easy to follow way. Everyone is welcome to join the discussion, and reading the book is not required.

We hope to see you at the library on September 30 in your orange shirt if you have one. To see tangible reconciliation in action, we must be willing to learn about and hold the truth of Canada’s mistreatment of First Nation, Inuit and Métis Peoples. From there, we can work together to ensure everyone has the freedom and safety to honour their culture and foster strong communities.

Getty Images

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TheIHCASisawardingScholarshipstostudentsenteringtheirsecondormoreyearof studyinaHealthRelatedProgramatarecognizedpost-secondaryinstitution. PreferencewillbegiventostudentswhohaveattendedDavidThompsonSecondary School,whohavenotreceivedthisfundinginthepast,andhavevolunteeredatthe InvermereandDistrictHospital,ColumbiaHouseorotherhealthrelatedinstitutions.

ApplicationsforboththeCommunityFunding,andPostSecondaryScholarshipsareto bereceivedbyemailorregularmailnolaterthanOctober20,2023.Foranapplication andinformationpleaseemailto: SeonaHelmer- seona.helmer@gmail.com

Debra Fisher addresses her audience during the Speaker Series hosted by Four Points Books on Sept. 14. The next series is scheduled for Sept. 28.

Photo submitted

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Car show attracts many

Submitted

The Columbia Valley Classics annual Show & Shine was the highlight of last weekend.

It marked the 33rd year of this local event with 726 vehicles registered and dozens more lining the streets of Radium.

It is estimated that more than 3,400 people attended the show hosted on the gorgeous driving range of the Springs Golf Course.

The Poker Run on Friday afternoon was the largest yet with 275 players. Columbia Valley Classics is 100 per cent volunteer based; special thanks to all members for working so hard to make this event an annual memory for so many residents and visitors to the Columbia Valley. Proceeds of the event are donated to Angel Flight, an organization that provides medical transport flights to people in need.

Photo

Classic cars, trucks shine at big show

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Photo by Chris Moseley

Top left aerial photo by Max Powers. Check out the submitted photo of the old hearse and coffins.

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Al-Anon. Are you concerned about or affected by someone else’s drinking? Meeting Mondays 7:15 pm. at Canadian Martyrs Parish front side door. 712 12 Ave. Invermere. For more information or to speak with someone from our fellowship, please call 250-8782448 or 250-342-8392.

Alcoholics Anonymous. If alcohol is causing problems or conict in your life, AA can help. All meetings are at 7 p.m. Columbia United AA, Invermere: Saturday, Sunday, Tuesday and Wednesday at the BC Service Building, South End – 624 4th St., Invermere. Please call 250342-2424 for more information or to speak with someone from our fellowship.

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foracheerful,responsible, energeticteammemberwho wouldenjoyservingourcustomers andlovesfreshpastriesandcoffee. Ifyouliketoworkinawelcoming, quick-paced,creativeenvironmentwith incentiveswewouldlovetohearfromyou! ApplywitharesumeattheBakeryStore ore-mailtooffice@invermerebakery.com

aimroadshr.ca@acciona.com

KITTEN ADOPTION ALERT!

FAMILYSUPPORTWORKER

PermanentPart-TimePosition

Hours: Upto21hoursperweek

Salary: $28.32perhour

ShiftSchedule: Flexibledays,eveningsandweekends,asrequired

LISTINGS NEEDED!

IWANTTOSELL YOURHOUSE!

WHYLISTWITHGERRY?

✔ Website/SocialMedia

✔ 3DTour,YouTube,Drone

FunctionalResponsibilities

Provideaprogramofsupport,informationandreferralstohelpstrengthenthefamily unit,andtohelpresolveidentifiedissuesthatareplacingchildrenatrisk,inaccordance withtheagency’scontractwiththeMinistryforChildrenandFamilies.Referralsfromthe MinistryforChildrenandFamiliesaretobegivenfirstpriority.

OperatingResponsibilities

1.Supportandinformationservices

•Meetwithfamilymembersintheirhome,watchingtheinteractionsanddynamicsof thefamilyunit,andprovidingpracticalsupport.

•Developaplantohelpthefamilysetandachieverealisticgoalswhichhavebeen identifiedasimportanttoimprovefamilyfunctioning.Thiswilloftenrequireresearch andpreparationworkonthepartofthefamilysupportworker.

•Assistthefamilytodrawuponitsownstrengthstohelpresolveissuesandidentified risks.

•Beflexibleinschedulingappointments,inordertomeettheneedsoffamiliesin crises.

2.Referralservices

•Contributetoassessingfamilyneedsandhelpingtomatchthoseneedswithexisting communityresourceswhichcanprovideadditionalsupport.

3.Reporting

•Advisethesocialworkerofanysignificantfamilyissues,assoonaspossible,i.e., domesticdisputes,childabuse,severeparent-childconflict,etc.

•Submitmonthlynarrativereportsoneachfamily.

•Submitmonthlystatisticalreportsonjobfunctions.

Accountability

FamilysupportworkersareaccountabletotheDirectorofProgramManagementandin herabsencetheExecutiveDirector.Theyreceiveclinicalsupervisiondeterminedbythe FamilyDynamixmanagementteam.

Qualifications

Oneyearofpost-secondaryeducationinahumanservicesdisciplineplustwoyearsof relevantjobexperience,ortwoyearsofpost-secondaryeducationinahumanservices disciplineplusoneyearofrelevantjobexperience.Otherappropriatecombinationsof educationandexperiencemaybeconsidered.

Applicationprocess: SubmitaresumeandcoverlettertoUteJuras,DirectorofProgram Management,FamilyDynamixAssociationat ujuras@fdx.family,or Box2289,Invermere,BC.,V0A1K0,byOctober9,2023at4pm.

✔ Responsive,Local,Expert LISTWITHGERRY: FORRESULTS!

*Notintendedto solicitthosealready workingwithanagent.

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

RockiesWestRealty Independentlyownedandoperated

Cheers to Amanda and Bernard at Invermere Post Office. You were very helpful when I had a problem with a packaged that was damaged. I appreciate your calm demeanor and your explanation of how I should handle the matter. You two are great!

Cheers to Cathy and Dave C. for thinking of me and passing along the puzzles you have completed. You two are awesome!

ICAN has wonderful cuddly fur babies, we have been lucky to foster 5 of them, Snoopy (black/White) Sammy (orange tabby) Summer (calico) are still in our care and we would love for them to nd a forever home. 2 is often better than 1 for play and companionship!

Please contact ICAN for more info info@icanbc.com 250-341-7888

B.B.'s Home & Design Services Renovations, Masonry & Handyman Services, Blinds, Housechecks/ yard / window/ eavestrough cleaning/ dump runs. 250-688-2897

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

THE HEARTFELT COMPANION: Services for Seniors

2 bedroom farm house in Fairmont Hot Springs adjacent to Funtasia Fun Park available October 15 to March 31. Conditional to taking care of the animals and light snow removal. (1.5 – 3 hours daily) Rent $790 + utilities. Contact Tanya 250 342 5165 or funtasia@shaw.ca with resume. No smoking, no pets.

$1200

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

Heartfeltcompanionservices.com

GET-ER-DONE HANDYMAN

phone250-342-4422 fax250-342-4439 invermerebakery.com Akiskinook

Landscaping, Asphalt Pads, Hanging Christmas Lights, General Contracting, Cleaning Gutters, House Checks. Call Ryan 604-346-5087

Cheers to Brian! You keep Berrey Rd in shape when the provincial contractors don't. Thanks from your grateful neighbors.

HELP WANTED

TIRES

APARTMENTS/CONDOS FOR RENT HELP WANTED

CHEERS

Mr.HannaMassoud

BornJerusalem1942,passedattheInvermereHospitalSeptember7,2023

ThefamilyofHannawouldliketoinviteanyonewhoknewHannaorknewofhim toacelebrationofhislifetobeheldSeptember25at11:00aminRadiumattheSable Ridgecondominiums,intheSocialRoom.FatherFranciswillbeofficiating.

WewouldliketothankthepeoplewhomadeadifferenceinHanna’slifeandours, thislastyear.

Wewouldliketothankaboveall,theCareAideswhogottoknowhim,andthe gentlemanhewas.WewouldliketheLPNstoknowwerespectedtheirrolein Hanna’scare.

WewouldliketothankDarlaandCharleneforencouragingHannatoparticipatein theirplannedactivities.

WewouldliketothankJen,Cam,andSandyforworkingsohardtokeepIvyHouse socleanandodorfreeandbecomingourfriends. WewouldliketothankDr.Sveenforalways listeningtousonHanna’sbehalf.Wewould liketothankthedoctorsandnursesof InvermereHospitalPalliativeCarefortheir compassionandcare.

BLACK,MiltonJames June20,1949-September8,2023

WesadlyannouncethepassingofMiltBlackSept.8,2023.BorninSt Boniface,ManitobaJune20,1949toHazelStroudBlack(neeCober) andDavidJamesBlack,heleavesex-wifeSigridBarbaraBlack(nee Gollub),sistersBeverleyMcLeodandMaureenOlson,theirchildren andgrandchildren.

Miltwas36thNHLdraftpickin1969,fortheChicagoBlackHawks. WhentheWinnipegJetsbuilttheirfirstWHAteamin1972,hometown boyMiltwasrecruitedwithothergreatslikeBobbyHull.A fter3seasons, MiltplayedinSwedenandGermany.HispointsrecordforAugsburg EVremainsunbeaten.Afteracareer-endingleginjuryMiltsettledin Matlock,thenfulfilledhisdreamsbymovingtoInvermereBCtowork atPanoramaSkiResortandRadiumGolfCourse. Agentlesoul,hisdeeploveofmusiccouldbringhimtotears.Heloved tolaughandfoundhumourinmanyeverydaysituations.Hisfamous appetiterangedfromchoicesteakstoKraftdinner.Helovedasimple life:spend ingactivetimeoutdoorshiking,skiing,andgolfing,orwith familyandfriends,includinghis3bestfriends,SigridBlack,Alexander DryburghandRickWagner.

Hewillbemissed,buthismemorywillinspireustobeourbest,dowhat welove,savourtimeswithlovedones,andembracethesimplethings inlife.See https://mcphersonfh.com/tribute/details/3674/Milton-Black/ obituary.html#tribute-start

Panneton,Judy

November23,1953-August30,2023

JudyPannetondiedverysuddenlyonAugust30thafteralovelydinnerwith herfriends.

JudylovedtheInvermerecommunity,especiallyherlifeatLakeviewManor whereshewasanenthusiasticparticipantinprogramswithherfriendEllie. Judy’sgreatestpassionwasreading.ShehadadegreeinClassicsfromQueen’s Universitywhichledtoacareerinthelibraryandalifelongloveoflibraries. Shelovedallbookdiscussionsandwashappiestwhensharingbookswith friends.Shewasalsoanaspiringpoet,belongedtoawriters’collectivefor manyyearsandhadseveralpiecespublished.

Judywaskindnessitself.Shewasknownforhersmileandinfectiouslaughand hergenerousspirit.Judy’sdaughterHeather(Chris)andhergrandchildren Phoebe,AlexisandElijahwerethejoyofherlife.Shewasalsolovedbyher sisterLibbie(Judi)andbrotherDougandherniecesKate,Emily,Zoe,Rachel, andAndrea,hernephewDavidandsomanyfriendsinInvermere.

Hersuddendeathhasleftahugesadnessinallourlives. TherewillbenomemorialforJudybutpleaserememberherwhenyounext pickupagreatbook,especiallyifit’sfromtheInvermerelibrary.

INLOVINGMEMORY

FionaMillar

July21,1955–Sept8th,2023

ItiswithprofoundsadnessthatthefamilyofFionaMillarannouncesherpassing onFridaySept8,2023,atherhomeinWindermereB.C.Fionabeganherjourney onJuly21,1955inCalgary,Alberta.Shegrewupthere,afterhighschoolmoving toVancouvertoattendUBCwhereshewouldgraduatein1977.Followingher graduationFionamovedtotheColumbiaValleywhereshewouldbejoinedbyher parentsfollowingtheirretirement.

FionawasintroducedtoherloveDougin1982andtheyweremarriedayearlater. AfterFionaandDougweremarried,theypackedupandmovedbacktoCalgaryfor betterworkingopportunities.ShortlythereaftertheywelcomedtheirdaughterLana in1987.AfterlivingandworkinginthebigcityforawhileFionaandherfamily movedbacktothevalleywhichtheylovedsomuch.Shetrulyenjoyedbeingapart ofhercommunityandspentmanyhourshelpingoutattheWindermereSchooland helpingsomeoftheseniorslivinginWindermere.Fionawillberememberedfor hersparklingeyesandwarmlaughter.Shehadahugeheartandlovedheranimals, especiallycats.Fionaalsoenjoyedsewingandquilting.Hergreatestlovewasher family.

Fionaissurvivedbyherlovinghusbandof40yearsDougWilfley,andtheirdaughter LanaKerr(Spencer)andgrandchildrenOwenandEvie,andmanynieces,nephews, andextendedfamily.

SheispredeceasedbyhermotherandfatherJoyceandRoyMillarandbrother Douglas.

ACelebrationofFiona’slifewilltakeplaceSundaySept24that2pmatThe WindermereValleyGolfCourse.Inlieuofflowerspleaseconsideradonationto DiabetesCanada.

Ukass,Zeltite

December7,1925-September9,2023

ItiswithheavyheartsthatweannouncethepassingofZeltiteUkass(Robeznieks) attheageof97onSeptember9,2023inInvermere,BC.

ZelwasborninNereta,Latvia,December7,1925.In1944,herfamilywasforced tofleethelong-timefamilyfarmduetoRussianoccupation.Withhertwoyoung children,ArijaandImants,shefledtoGermanytoresideataninternmentcamp.

In1951,shemovedtoCanadaresidinginHamilton,Gleichan,Calgary,and finallysettlinginInvermere,wh ereshemarriedOjarsUkass,alocallumberman alsofromLatvia.Theyhadtwosons,GunarsandArturs,andoperatedafamily loggingandsawmilloperationforover40years.

Zelwasastrongmatriarch,bookkeeper,homemaker,andprolificgardenerwho valuedfamilyaboveallelse.SheenjoyedthesweetthingsinlifesuchasaKitKat bar,ChiChi’s,andasweetglassofwine.Shewasalsoanavidrockcollectorwho enjoyedspendingtimeoutinnature,especiallythemountains,andv aluedthe freedomaffordedtoherinCanada.

Sheissurvivedbyhertwosons,Gunars(Paige),andArturs,alongwith grandchildren,Amanda,Teresa,Jordan,Taryn,Madison,andHudson,aswellas 6greatgrandchildrenandniece.

Zelwaspredeceasedbyherparents,MartaandJanis,husbandsVillisandOjars, childrenArijaandImants,andhernieceMara.

TherewillbeagravesideserviceheldinCalgarywhereherparentswerelaidto restinafamilyplot,attendedbyfamily.

Inli euofflowers,donationsmaybemadetotheInvermereHospitalAuxiliary. AspecialthankyoutoIvyHousestaffforalltheattentionandcaregiventoMum.

GenerousHeartsIlluminateOurCommunity:

AHeartfeltThankYoutothe

MountainMereMusicFestivalFundraiserDonors

Celebratingthecommunityspiritthroughmusic.

Windermere,August19th2023

-Inaworldwherecompassionandgenerositycan oftenfeelscarce,theMountainMereMusicFestivalFundraiserheldatSwansea Ranchstandsasashiningtestamenttotheboundlesspotentialofkindness.With heartsfullofgratitude,weextendourdeepestthankstotheremarkabledonorsand sponsorswhomadethiseventanoverwhelmingsuccess.

Thejazzfestival,whichtookplaceonAugust19th,wasaresoundingtriumph, bringingtogetherindividualsfromallwalksoflife,eachunitedbyacommonpurpose –tomakeadifferenceinthementalhealthofouryouth.

Ourheartfeltgratitudegoesouttothenumerousindividualsandorganizationsthat openedtheirheartsandwalletstosupportourcause.Theirgenerouscontributions allowedustoexceedourfundraisinggoals,enablingustoprovidecriticalassistance toyouthinneed.Amongthemanydonorswhodeservespecialrecognition,wewant toapplaudSherryDoerr.Aheartfeltthanksforyourremarkablegenerosity.Your commitmenttoourcauseistrulyinspiring.Yourongoingsupportisthecornerstone ofoursuccess.Yourcontributionscontinuetomakeasignificantdifferenceinour community.

Thesuccessofthischarityeventisatestamenttothepowerofcollectivegiving.It underscoresthefactthatwhenwecometogetherasacommunity,wecanachieve remarkablefeats.Everydollardonated,everyvolunteerhour,andeverykindwordof supportplayedacrucialroleinthesuccessofthisevent.

Thefundsraisedduringthiseventwillbeusedtosupportvitalinitiativessuchas fundingafterschoolprogramsforyouth,sponsoringcounselling,guaranteeingfood access,andhiringprofessionalstoteachlifeskills.

Inclosing,weextendourwarmestthankstothegenerousdonorswhomadethis charityeventaresoundingsuccess.Yourkindnessandcompassionarethelifeblood ofourcommunity,andyoursupportwillcontinuetotransformlives.Together,we haveshownthatwhenweuniteforacommoncause,thereisnolimittothegoodwe canachieve.In2024,wewillcelebratethe30thanniversaryofWindermereValley YouthCentreSociety,letthishugemilestone.Thespiritofgivingisaliveandwellin ourcommunity,andwithcontinuedsupport,wecanstrivetomakeanevengreater impactinthenextthirtyyearsahead.

Withheartsfullofgratitude,

PaulineChevanne,she/her CentreManager SummitYouthCentre

Summit.centre@gmail.com

MLA MINUTE

Doug Clovechok, MLA Columbia River-Revelstoke www.DougClovechok.ca

Can BC deliver the dream?

LAKEWINDERMERE ALLIANCECHURCH

DISTRICTOFINVERMERE 914–8th

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

Debt is like any other trap - easy enough to fall into, but hard to escape. The B.C. NDP are now trapped by their own overspending, and British Columbians are going to pay the price for years to come.

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

Whileyouarewithus,youare alwayswelcometojoinus. Sundayat10:30a.m 32610thAvenue,Invermere 250-342-9535•www.lwac.ca

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

it in just seven years. The NDP are on a spending spree that promises everything but has delivered very little.

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

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

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

WINDERMEREVALLEYSHARED

MINISTRYANGLICAN-UNITED

Minister:BrentWoodard

NOTICEOFPUBLICINFORMATION& ENGAGEMENTMEETINGS

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

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

Since my last MLA Minute, I’ve heard from many of you. My constituents are paying attention to what’s happening with provincial finances, and the sky-rocketing debt is a real concern. Well, it should be. We are now shouldering in unprecedented debt without the results that we were promised.

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

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

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

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

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

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

Everywhere you look there are help wanted signs, with no workers to fill the jobs. Business owners are exhausted. What happened to $10 a day childcare for everyone?

Centres constantly tell me that there are just not enough childcare workers.

There is an urgent financial crisis burning in the background of this province. It is difficult not to sound alarmist, but the numbers speak for themselves. Now more than ever, good people in this province are realizing how the mounting debt is affecting them, their families, their businesses, and their future.

I want to hear from you about any concerns you have about this or any other issue. I read every email I receive.

Please reach out to me at doug.clovechok.mla@leg.bc.ca or call my office in Kimberley at (250) 432-2300 or Revelstoke at (250) 805-0323.

If you know the stress of having your credit cards racked up to the max, you know that your dreams are put on hold if you’re only able to make the minimum payments. For some, it means not taking that vacation or buying that new car, but for so many others, credit is being used to meet basic needs like groceries. When you have crippling debt, it becomes suffocating.

The province’s finances are in this same position right now. An independent report from the Parliament Budget Officer is warning that B.C. is on an increasingly unsustainable fiscal path under Premier David Eby and the NDP. The report projects that B.C. will again become a havenot province and will again be receiving equalization payments. Further, the report finds that B.C. and Quebec are predicted to experience the slowest growth in labour productivity in the country.

It took 125 years to acquire $44 billion in debt in this province up until 2017. Since then, the NDP has doubled

WedonothaveservicesinJulyandAugust. SundayserviceswillresumeSept3rdat10:30am. Pleasevisitourwebsitebygoingtowvsm.ca.

VALLEYCHRISTIANASSEMBLY

Sunday10a.m.Worshipservice

4814HighwayDrive,Windermere 250-342-9511•www.valleychristianonline.com

ROMANCATHOLICCHURCH

St.Anthony’s,CanalFlats.,CanadianMartyrs’–Invermere,St.Joseph’s–Radium.

CanalFlats:Saturday,4p.m. CanadianMartyrs,Invermere: Saturday5p.m.,Sunday9a.m.

St.Joseph,Radium:Sunday11a.m.

A significant contributor to this is the 36 per cent expansion of the B.C. public sector. Ask yourself this question: Have the services you receive from this government increased by 36 per cent over the last seven years? Clearly, the answer is “no!” Yet there are 137,193 new positions under the NDP, at an additional cost of $17.1 billion annually. And in the last fie months, the NDP has quietly given their senior staff raises equivalent to a 17 per cent increase. Your money is paying for more staff, not better results.

FatherFrancisDelaCruz•712-12th Ave.,Invermere 250-342-6167

ST.PETER’SLUTHERANCHURCH

Sunday1:30p.m.WorshipServiceatValleyChristian 4814HighwayDrive,Windermere lutheranstpeter@gmail.com

RADIUMCHRISTIANFELLOWSHIP

regarding

ProposedShort-TermRentalAccommodationUnit(STR)regulations, andotherupdatestotheDistrictofInvermere’s BusinessLicencingBylaw

TheDistrictofInvermereisholdingInformation&EngagementMeetings onOctober5,2023,toseekpublicinputonProposedShort-TermRental AccommodationUnit(STR)regulations,andotherupdatestotheDistrict ofInvermere’sBusinessLicencingBylaw.

Thepublicinformationandengagementmeetingsareschedule das follows:

Thursday,October5,2023

Sunday10a.m.Worshipservice

PastorWayneandLindaFrater•250-342-6633 No.4,7553MainSt.Radium•250-347-9937

CHURCHOFJESUSCHRIST

OFLATTER-DAYSAINTS

WorshipService,Sunday,10a.m. ReliefSociety,11:15a.m.

PresidentKendynMackensie•ColumbiaValley Branch•5014Fairway,FairmontHotSprings

250-439-9041

As the provincial debt continues to increase, where are the 114,000 new homes that you were promised? Where is the affordability you were promised? Where are the improvements to the health care system? Where are the $10-a-day childcare spaces? The list of expensive broken promises goes on and on.

CHURCHOFCHRIST(IglesianiCristo)

WorshipService:Sunday9a.m.,Thursday7:45p.m. ChamberofCommerce(LionsHall) Forinquiries:250-688-1643 250-270-2208or250-688-0629 Formoreinfoaboutthechurch,youcanGoogle onlineatincmedia.orgorpasugo.com.ph

(startingat12noon,3:00pm,and6:00pm)

ColumbiaValleyCentreat646–4thStreet,Invermere,BC PresentationsbyDistrictofInvermereStaffwilltakeplaceat: 12noon,3:00pm,and6:00pm

PleaseRSVPtoregisterforatimeslot–thiswillhelpensurethemeeting sizeiscomfortableforeveryoneattending,supportsdiscussions,and question&answersessions.

ToRSVP,pleasecontact:

CortneyPitts,ManagerofLeisureServices tel :250-342-9281ext.1232

orbyemail:events@invermere.net

Recyclingquestions?

BCRECYCLINGHOTLINE

604-732-9253

1-800-667-4321

RECYCLING

This current David Eby-led NDP government needs to stop the bleeding and get off this merry-go-round of irresponsible spending that’s failing to yield any meaningful results. Our kids and our grandkids don’t deserve to inherit this debt. Millions of dollars will be spent on interest for this debt. That’s your money, and it’s not being used to benefit you and your family.

They say that the world has become too complex for simple answers. I disagree. Here in B.C. it is very clear that this province cannot afford this NDP government.

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

Ifyouareunabletoattendoneofthemeetingsbutwouldliketo havemoreinformationabouttheproposedShort-TermRental AccommodationUnit(STR)regulations,andotherupdatestothe District’sBusinessLicencingBylaw,pleasecheckthe“What’sNew” sectiononourmunicipalwebsite:www.invermere.net

Alternatively,moreinformationabouttheseproposalscanbeobtained bycontactingtheDistrictofInvermereMunicipalOfficeusingthe followingcontactinformation:

email:info@invermere.net

Telephone:250-342-9281

FAX:250-342-2934

RoryHromadnik

DirectorofDevelopmentServices

DistrictofInvermere

Email:planning@invermere.net

Telephone:250-342-9281ext1235

STEPUP SHOWUP MAKEANIMPACT

FIREFIGHTERRECRUITMENTDRIVEONNOW

CommunitiesintheRDEKrelyontheindividualswhomakeupoureightpaid-on-callfire departmentstohelpprotecttheircommunitiesfromemergenciesandassistwithmedicalaid whenneeded.Theytrain,practiceandmaintainequipmentsotheyarereadywhenthecall comes.Theysupportcommunityeventsandarepartoftheheartoftheircommunities. Nomatteryourskillset,youcancontributetopublicsafetyinyourcommunity.

AndrewYoung,MCIP,RPP

ChiefAdministrativeOfficer

DistrictofInvermere

Email:cao@invermere.net

Telephone:250-342-9281ext1225

Radium

Photo by Linda Kodnar

Doug Clovechok, MLA Columbia River-Revelstoke www.DougClovechok.ca

FAITH

FAITH

Barbie!

Hey, Barbie!

By Brent Woodard Anglican/ United Church

movwife. found it one over “I enmovie or laugh.” were the characters were making – namdynamics that normally don’t get named. the difference between living in Barworld) and the real world. Barbieland society where women (Barbies) professions like doctors, lawyers and polday is a perfect day. Men (Kens) beach. That is their profession. A fantasy world, and Barbie needs self-discovery. She needs to want to things are. Ken also goes on his self-discovery. It becomes, for both of them, immaturity to maturity. They are helped “outcasts.” These are women and men help others be self-reflective.

I went to see the movie “Barbie” with my wife. I enjoyed it and found it thought provoking. At one point my wife leaned over to me and whispered, “I don’t know what I’m enjoying more, the movie or listening to people laugh.”

People in the audience were amused at comments the characters were making – naming female/male dynamics that normally don’t get named.

GrantUlysses Lambert

April22,1955September13,2023

Grant’sfamilyissaddenedtoannouncehispassing,hisphysicalbeing hasmovedon,buthisspiritwillremainhereinthemountains.Grant livedhislifeonthemove,livinginClinton,Wilmer,Nanaimo,Vancouver, FortSt.John,Golden,Kelownaandhisfinalrestingplace,Invermere. GrantmarriedNancyPennoofGolden,BConOctober5,1979inFort St.Johnandhadthreedaughters-Stacey,Ashley&Asia.Anartistand musician,Grantlovedtodrawandplaythedrumsandguitar.Grant spentthelaterpartofhislifeinawheelchairafterbeingparalyzedin abikingaccident.HeresidedinColumbiaHouseandenjoyedtimein theColumbiaHouseHealingGarden.SurvivedbyStacey,Ashley&Asia andfivegrandchildren.SistersElnaMantyka(GaryElliott)andMeade Stevason,manynieces,nephewsandfriends.Predeceasedbywife Nancy,brothersRussell,Alex,sistersOpal,Lillian.Inlieuofflowers, donationsinGrant’snamecanbemadetotheColumbiaHouseHealing Garden.ThankyoutotheCohoStafffortakingcareofGrant.

ColumbiaValley Churches

LAKEWINDERMEREALLIANCECHURCH

Whileyouarewithus,youarealwayswelcometojoinus. Sundayat10:30am

32610thAvenue,Invermere

250-342-9535|www.lwac.ca

WINDERMEREVALLEY

SHAREDMINISTRYANGLICAN-UNITED

Minister:BrentWoodard

Sundaysat10:30am,in-personoronZoom. FortheZoomlink,pleasevisitourwebsiteatwvsm.ca. 110-7thAve.inInvermere.

VALLEYCHRISTIANASSEMBLY

Sunday10a.m.WorshipService

4814HighwayDrive,Windermere 250-342-9511|www.valleychristianonline.com

living in a fantasy world is worth

The movie shows the difference between living in Barbieland (a fantasy world) and the real world. Barbieland is an ideal matriarchal society where women (Barbies) hold prestigious professions like doctors, lawyers and politicians and where every day is a perfect day. Men (Kens) spend each day at the beach. That is their profession. A rupture comes into this fantasy world, and Barbie needs to go on a journey of self-discovery. She needs to want to know the truth of how things are. Ken also goes on his journey of self-discovery. It becomes, for both of them, a journey from immaturity to maturity. They are helped along the way by “outcasts.” These are women and men who don’t fit in, but help others be self-reflective.

Perhaps it is human to imagine a world looks, the perfect marriage, with career, perfect relationships, no challenges and nothing that takes psychological comfort zone. Sounds nice, reconcile our fantasy world with the real shows people falling under the spell (patriarchy means “father rules,” or “men literally waking up from under being asleep is worth reflecting we are asleep until we wake up. asleep to patriarchy. But we can also alcohol/drug/entertainment-based culdevice-based culture, a violence-based culture, an I’m-entitled-to-conkind of ideology, conspiracy theories, and societal trauma and condition-

The idea of living in a fantasy world is worth reflecting upon. Perhaps it is human to imagine a world where we have perfect looks, the perfect marriage, with perfect kids, a perfect career, perfect relationships, no medical or financial challenges and nothing that takes us out of our psychological comfort zone. Sounds nice, but how do we reconcile our fantasy world with the real world?

The movie also shows people falling under the spell of patriarchy (patriarchy means “father rules,” or “men rule”). It shows people literally waking up from under this spell. The idea of being asleep is worth reflecting upon. We don’t know we are asleep until we wake up. And, yes, we can be asleep to patriarchy. But we can also be asleep to an alcohol/drug/entertainment-based culture, an electronic device-based culture, a violence-based culture, a media-shaped culture, an I’m-entitled-to-consume-culture, some kind of ideology, conspiracy theories, our own childhood and societal trauma and conditioning, and so much more. It feels fair to say we are all asleep to something, we just don’t know it when we’re asleep. And we no doubt have defenses and resistance that make it hard to wake up.

It feels fair to say we are all asleep don’t know it when we’re asleep. defenses and resistance that make scripture included a line from Paul what time it is, how it is now the wake from sleep.” I find it interesting years ago, and it remains a main now. Like Barbie and Ken, we all journey of self-discovery, waking up, the truth about how things are.

Last Sunday the scripture included a line from Paul that says, “you know what time it is, how it is now the moment for you to wake from sleep.” I find it interesting that he wrote this 2,000 years ago, and it remains a main task for humankind now. Like Barbie and Ken, we all need to keep on the journey of self-discovery, waking up, and wanting to know the truth about how things are.

THORNTON DavidSidney

August24,1945

~August25,2023

DavidwasborninEngland andcametoCanadaasababy withhismotherRose.

DaviddiedinInvermereDistrictHospitalaftera shortanddifficultillness.

HeissurvivedbyhislovingwifeJudyPocha (Thornton),sisterTina(Gary),nieceEmber,nephew GaryJr.Kroonen,brotherDennisThornton,daughter SandraEastbrook,sonShane(Sharon)Thornton, stepchildrenSharon(Chris)Murray,GregPocha.

DavidwaspredeceasedbyhisfatherSidney Thornton,hismotherRoseThorntonandsonDavid ThorntonJr.

Davidwasadozeroperatorandenjoyedhisjobfor manyyearsondifferentjobsiteshereinthevalley andnumerousareasaroundtheprovince.Healways lovedmovingmoundsofmaterialandcuttinggrade withhisdozer.

In1983Davemethispartnerandtheloveof hislife,JudyPocha.Theymadetheirfirsthomein Wilmer,BCforafewyears,thenofftoInvermere, BCfor12years,thenmovedtoRadium,BCwhere hedevelopedhisgreenthumbandcreatedabeautiful oasisforhimselfandJudy.

Davewasakindandcaringhusbandwholovedto visitandsharehismanyfunfilledlifestorieswith familyandfriends.

Daveadoredandlovedspendingasmuchtime ashecouldwithhismanygrandchildrenandgreat grandchildren,theybroughtgreatjoyandpleasureto him.

Asperhisrequest,therewillbenoservice.

David’sfamilywouldliketothankDr.Simonand stafffromE.K.D.H.inCranbrook,Dr.Walsh,the nursesandstaffofInvermereDistrictHospitalforthe kindnessandcareshowntoDaveduringthisvery difficulttime.Weappreciateallthatwasdoneforhim. Thankyou.

ROMANCATHOLICCHURCH

St.Anthony’s,CanalFlats:Saturday,4pm CanadianMartyrs’,Invermere:Saturday5pm,Sunday9am St.Joseph’s,Radium:Sunday11am

FatherFrancisDelaCruz|712-12th Ave.,Invermere 250-342-6167

ST.PETER’SLUTHERANCHURCH

Sunday1:30p.m.WorshipServiceatValleyChristian 4814HighwayDrive,Windermere lutheranstpeter@gmail.com

RADIUMCHRISTIANFELLOWSHIP

Sunday10a.m.Worshipservice

PastorWayneandLindaFrater| 250-342-6633 #4,7553MainSt.Radium| 250-347-9937

CHURCHOFJESUSCHRIST

OFLATTER-DAYSAINTS

WorshipService,Sunday,10a.m. ReliefSociety,11:15a.m.

PresidentKendynMackensie•ColumbiaValleyBranch• 5014Fairway,FairmontHotSprings 250-439-9041

CHURCHOFCHRIST(IglesianiCristo)

WorshipService:Sunday9a.m.,Thursday7:45p.m. ChamberofCommerce(LionsHall)

Forinquiries: 250-688-1643 250-270-2208 or 250-688-0629

Formoreinfoaboutthechurch,youcanGoogle onlineat incmedia.org or pasugo.com.ph