November 28, 2020 Vol. 17/Issue 48
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The Columbia Valley Pioneer • 1
November 26, 2020
The Columbia Valley
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2 • The Columbia Valley Pioneer
November 28, 2020 Highlights of the @LiveColumbiaValley Instagram account, brought to you by the Columbia Valley Community Economic Development Office, a service of the RDEK.
Bruno’s Plumbing Service Mike Sylvestre 250.342.5105 brunosplumbing@shaw.ca ~ We now service drains ~ Serving The Columbia Valley
UPCOMING EVENTS! Ser
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HIGHLIGHTS
Try our Reading Challenges on Beanstack!
e Co lumbia Va lle y
Teen Reading Challenge: Win a Huion HS611 Drawing Tablet! 10 to try this fall: 19+, win a library book bag or Tim Hortons gift card! Bookworms Challenge: ages 5-12, win a Lego Mini Figure or new book! Details on our website.
invermere.bc.libraries.coop
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Want a brand new $9M recreation amenity all to yourself? Get out on the Markin-MacPhail Westside Legacy Trail. While it has had over 41,000 users this summer and fall, they’re spread out over the day, over the season, and over 25 km, between Fairmont Hot Springs and Invermere. Snow, rain, or shine.
Serving the Columbia Valley since 1995
• ICBC Glass Express • Auto Glass Replacement and Chip Repair • Shower Doors • Sealed Units Slowly. Ice is taking over the Columbia Valley. Jack Frost has tucked in Lake Windermere & Columbia Lake, as they begin their long winter nap. Conversely, volunteers behind the Toby Creek Nordic Ski Club & Windermere Whiteway have quickly sold 475 memberships!
• Deck and Hand Railings Serving Residential and Commercial Clients
#3, 109 Industrial #2, Invermere B.C. 250-342-3659 • Fax: 250-342-3620
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N E W S PA P E R
Holiday Deadlines Our office will be closed from December 24th, 2020 thru Jan. 3rd, 2021. Please note our firm advertising deadline: Edition
Booking Deadline
Ad Material Deadline
December 17th
Thursday, December 10th at noon
Monday, December 14th
December 24th
Thursday, December 10th at noon
Monday, December 14th
December 31st
Thursday, December 10th at noon
Monday, December 14th
Wishing everyone a safe and joyous holiday! The staff of the Pioneer
Check out all the hard work and creativity from retailers “lighting up the holidays!” Local shops have taken the pandemic in stride by decorating and setting up their stores to be welcoming and safe. Throughout the fall, business has been good, as shoppers realize it’s wise to shop early and avoid disappointment. Along with late night shopping tonight, participating businesses are running a collection of “shop local & win” promotions until December 13. Find out how through the Columbia Valley Chamber of Commerce’s ValleyStrong.ca. Thanks for the generous support of Columbia Basin Trust and all the participating businesses. Submitted by Ryan Watmough
Thank you for your support! 250-342-0562 877-877-3889
www.eagleranchresort.com
We are committed to the health and safety of our guests, our team members, and our communities, to help reduce the spread of COVID-19, Eagle Ranch will temporarily close until Spring Season, 2021. We look forward to serving you again in the near future.
CEL
EBRATING
YEARS 2000-2020
November 28, 2020
The Columbia Valley Pioneer • 3
VALLEY NEWS
Masks mandatory, no social gatherings in Columbia Valley and right across B.C. Sweeping measures implemented in effort to contain B.C.’s second wave of COVID-19 pandemic By Steve Hubrecht steve@columbiavalleypioneer.com A spike in COVID-19 cases in B.C. has lead provincial health officer Dr. Bonnie Henry to announce sweeping new measures and restrictions to contain what is looming as the second wave of the pandemic in the province. Among the most prominent of the measures are mandatory medical masks in all indoor public spaces and commercial spaces in B.C. and restrictions on all social gatherings with anybody beyond people’s households. These measures are effective right across the province, and Invermere mayor Al Miller said, obviously, that means masks are now mandatory here too. “We’re, of course, going to follow the provincial order,” Miller told the Pioneer. “I know it doesn’t fit everybody’s agenda, that there are some naysayers out there on masks. I respect everybody’s right to their opinion, but in our public buildings in Invermere, we are now mandating masks,” said Miller. “It’s not a time to be blaming and arguing. We need to work together on this to get through this as quickly as possible.” In terms of the mask mandate in retail spaces, Miller pointed out that the responsibility and authority to enforce the mask mandate in local businesses do not rest with the district of Invermere. “The order is a provincial order, so it’s up to the retailer or commercial entities to respect and follow the order,” he said. The order outlines that, in some cases, police and other compliance officers can enforce provincial orders, and that employers are expected to enforce the mandatory mask policy with both their staff and their customers. Miller added that the pandemic has been tough on people, and implored Invermere residents to do their best to push forward in as positive a manner as possible. “We’ve been in the COVID-19 situation for about eight months now and I’ve seen a lot of emotion from people. Some people are having a really hard time with this, including some really strong people. I’m asking people to be kind, to be caring. That’s what we need right now,” he said.
Dr. Henry announced the measures — which are not yet a full-scale lockdown like the one recently put in place in Toronto — on Thursday, Nov. 19, as COVID-19 numbers in the province spiked to 6,929 active cases, the highest number B.C. has seen so far. The no-social-gathering restriction means people are not allowed to meet with anybody outside of their immediate household for any social reason whatsoever. This means not inviting any extended family or friends into your house, not having any gatherings in your backyard (even if it is possible to maintain a physical distance of at least two metres between people in your backyard), not
es, retail spaces, commercial spaces, common workplaces, restaurants, bars and pubs, but not to schools. Officials also announced a travel advisory, asking people to avoid all non-essential travel and stay within their local health region. This means no travel in or out of B.C. and also means no travel within different regions of B.C., except for essential reasons. Essential travel was defined as regular travel for work within your region or travelling for things such as medical appointments and hospital visits. Travelling for vacations or to visit friends and family outside your household or outside your core bubble is explicitly defined as non-essential. The advisory specifically addressed mountain sports, saying not to travel to participate in mountain sports, instead recommending “ski or snowboard at your local mountain.” Addressing out-of-province visitors, the advisory read “at this time, people travelling to B.C. from another province or territory within Canada should only come for essential reasons.” All indoor and outdoor community and social events of any kinds are suspended, even if less than 50 people are attending. All in-person (i.e. non-digital) faith services are suspended. No spectators are allowed at sporting events, and nobody is allowed to travel outside their community for a sporting event. Indoor group fitness activities, including hot yoga, Photo by Mika Baumeister on Unsplash spin classes and high intensity interval training are suspended, although dance lessons, martial having any outdoor gatherings, and not arranging play- arts, and cheerleading may go ahead with new updated dates for your kids in parks and other public outdoor safety protocols and guidelines. Gyms and fitness centres areas. offering individual (as opposed to group) fitness training Dr. Henry outlined that it would still be okay for may stay open with new updated safety protocols and grandparents, for instance, to pick up kids from school guidelines. or look after kids if parents cannot due to work commitWeddings, funerals and baptisms can go ahead, with ments, for parents to carpool kids to school, for contrac- no more than 10 people, including officiants, but no retors to do work in people’s homes, and for people to go ceptions associated with these events are allowed. Emfor a walk with a friend so long as physical distance of at ployers have been asked to suspend any returns-to-office least two metres is maintained for the whole walk. for employees who have been working from home. MedShe also said people who live completely alone may ical group meetings and support group meetings, includcontinue to regularly meet with a ‘core bubble’ of a max- ing addictions services, meeting, are still allowed, with imum of two people, that may be partners, relatives, pandemic protocols in place. Municipal council meetings friends, or co-parents, who live in a different household. and business meetings are still allowed to go ahead, proThe mask mandate applies to all indoor public spac- vided COVID-19 protocols are in place.
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4 • The Columbia Valley Pioneer
RCMP Report
SECURITY Est. 2005
• • • •
Uniformed Guards Mobile Patrol Alarm Response Property Checks
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Submitted by Sgt. Darren Kakuno Detachment Commander Columbia Valley RCMP
Commercial – Residential Installation – Maintenance – Repairs
This past week, Nov 16 through Nov 22, the Columbia Valley RCMP responded to 48 calls for service. The following is a summary of some of the files our officers responded to.
Darren Ross Box 72, Canal Flats, B.C. V0B 1B0
Cell: 250-341-7727 • Fax: 1-778-523-2426 • poolman-911@hotmail.com
•On Monday, Nov 16, at 4:30 a.m., police were called to a single vehicle motor vehicle incident on Highway 93 in Kootenay National Park. The driver of a Hyundai Accent lost control of his vehicle and went over an embankment. The driver was uninjured. •On Tuesday, Nov 17, at 2:50 a.m., an officer conducted a traffic stop with a vehicle on Kootenay # 3 Road in Windermere. While speaking to the driver, the officer noticed a male passenger who had an outstanding warrant for breaching his probation. The male was arrested without incident and released on an Appearance Notice
DISTRICT OF INVERMERE
914 – 8th Avenue, PO Box 339 Invermere, B.C. 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 windrowed snow and ice to the degree that the mobility of vehicular and pedestrian traffic shall not be compromised.
from the RCMP and Municipal Police Agencies from all regions of the province. Since 2008, an estimated 102,841 impaired drivers have been Constable Andrew Henneberry removed from B.C.s roads for alcohol and drug related driving offences. of the Columbia Valley RCMP DeTo be considered for Alexa’s Team, tachment has been recognized for his an officer must remove a minimum efforts in removing impaired drivers of 12 drivers from the road by way from our roadways. He was one of 38 officers in the Southeast District who of an Immediate Roadside Prohibition, Administrative Driving Prohibiearned the distinction of being on Alexa’s Team. tion, Drug Recognition Evaluation or Criminal Code investigation in one The Alexa’s Team program recognizes dedicated police officers across year. British Columbia who diligently work “We’re very fortunate to have Cst. Henneberry working in our detachto reduce the number of drivers affectment. He has a passion for traffic work ed by alcohol or drugs on B.C.s roads. The team is named for Alexa Midde- Submitted photo of Cst. Henneberry and our communities are safer because laer, who was killed by an impaired of his commitment to road safety. Not driver in 2008, while feeding a horse with her aunt in only does Cst. Henneberry spend countless hours on our highways, he was also the driving force behind re-estabDelta, B.C. Since its inception, Alexa’s Team has grown from 26 lishing our volunteer Speed Watch group and Citizens to over 2,900 new and returning Alexa’s Team members on Patrol.” Submitted by Sgt. Darren Kakuno Detachment Commander Columbia Valley RCMP
• 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. 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 cooperation!
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to attend court at a later date. •On Tuesday, Nov 17, at about 4:00 p.m., officers attended a residence on 11th Avenue in Invermere after receiving a complaint of a guest who was refusing to leave. Upon police arrival, the male made the decision to leave on his own accord. •On Tuesday, Nov 17, at 8:45 p.m., an officer attended the residence of an individual to ensure she was complying with her court ordered condition to be at her residence 24 hours a day. The individual was not located at the residence during the check and was arrested later in the evening for breaching her Conditional Sentence Order. The female was held for a bail hearing and later released. •On Saturday, Nov 21, at about 7:30 a.m., police responded to an address on Kootenay # 3 Road in Windermere for a male who was reportedly causing damage inside the residence. Police located and arrested an intoxicated adult male for mischief. The male was held in cells until sober.
Columbia Valley Officer Earns a Spot on Alexa’s Team
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November 28, 2020
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November 28, 2020
The Columbia Valley Pioneer • 5
PRESENTING THE Draft
Active TransportatioN Network Plan We are developing a joint Active Transportation Plan between Shuswap Indian Band and the District of Invermere. We’d like to share the draft plan including:
Pioneer file photo
Larger runoff and reduced electricity demand means waters levels up in Kinbasket Reservoir By Steve Hubrecht steve@columbiavalleypioneer.com B.C. Hydro recently released its Columbia River operations summary report for the past year. The report gives an update on the organization’s activities along the Columbia River. The Columbia River is the fourth largest river in North America, and the many dams along its main steam, along with others on its tributaries, produce more hydroelectricity than any other river system in North America. Construction of these dams began more than fifty years ago, and stopped runs of salmon from the Pacific reaching the upper parts of the river systems. Although the Canadian headwaters of the Columbia (which begins near Canal Flats, flows north through Columbia Lake, by Fairmont Hot Springs, through Lake Windermere, through the Columbia River wetlands past Radium, Edgewater and other local communities on route to the ocean) account for only 15 per cent of the Columbia River Basin’s total area. The terrain in this part of the basin is mountainous, with considerable winter snowpack, and consequently, this area is the source of more than a third of the entire river system’s runoff. The report outlines that renegotiation of the Columbia River Treaty, the international agreement that governs the Columbia dams and reservoirs, began in spring 2018
and that negotiations session has been ongoing every two months since. “Snowpack in the Columbia Basin this year was above normal due to cold and wet conditions for much of the operating year. This resulted in above normal runoff forecast of 104 per cent for the entire Columbia Basin between April and September 2020 and 108 per cent of normal for the Canadian portion of the basin. By comparison, the overall runoff in the Columbia basin in 2019 was only 87 per cent of normal,” read the report. The report gave a detailed breakdown of each of the major reservoirs in the Canadian part of the Columbia Basin. The closest of these to the Columbia Valley is the Kinbasket Reservoir, just north of Golden. The minimum water level reached in Kinbasket in 2020 was 720.12 metres (2,362.6 feet) on Apr. 20; about 5.30 metres (17.4 feet) higher than the minimum level in 2019. From February to August 2020, reservoir inflows were about 110 per cent of average. “Due to high inflows and a reduced demand for electricity due to COVID-19, the reservoir refilled to reach a maximum level of 754.44 metres (2,475.2 feet) on Aug. 23... Similar high water levels were observed in 2012 and 2013 during high runoff conditions,” read the report, noting that this maximum water level for 2020 was about 8.29 metres (27.2 feet) higher than the highest level in 2019.
Supporting your ideas years. and efforts for
View it now online: ourtrust.org/magazine
• Answer your questions & collect your feedback
Join us for A ZOOM WEBINAR! DECEMBER 3, 2020 SESSION 1 3 – 4PM
SESSION 2 6 – 7PM
REGISTER ON EVENTBRITE @
atnp-engagement.eventbrite.ca Questions? Rory Hromadnik, Development Services District of Invermere t: 250-342-9281 Extension 1235 e: planning@invermere.net
DISTRICT OF INVERMERE
914 – 8th Avenue, PO Box 339 Invermere, BC V0A 1K0 Tel: (250) 342-9281 • Fax: (250) 342-2934
CALL FOR VOLUNTEER INVERMERE PUBLIC LIBRARY BOARD MEMBERS Are you an avid reader? Would you like to see a new library? Would you like to be a part of your library’s future?
To be eligible, you must be a resident or elector of the District of Invermere.
‘GivingTuesday’ is a global movement for giving and volunteering, taking place every year.
in your mailbox, featuring remarkable stories of people and places in the Columbia Basin.
• Opportunities for additional active transportation crossing between Shuswap Indian Band & Invermere
Membership on the Board will be for a two-year term, commencing January, 1st, 2021.
THE SPIRIT OF GIVING
Our Trust magazine
• Policy recommendations
In accordance with the Library Act, the District of Invermere is inviting applications for membership on the Invermere Public Library Board.
25
Watch for the 25th anniversary edition of
• Long-term walking & cycling infrastructure plan
December 1st is Opening Day of the Giving Season It’s a time when charities, companies and individuals join together and rally for favourite causes. It is a way for communities to come together for those in need. To participate in this special day you can donate at www.valleyfoundation.ca or directly to the charity of your choice.
Members of the Invermere District Council, employees of the District of Invermere and employees of the existing Library Board are not eligible. Members of the Invermere Public Library Board are guardians of a “public trust”. They have a legal and moral obligation to ensure that the public library provides relevant and efficient service to the community that it supports. Successful candidates must possess a strong sense of community service, willingness to work respectfully as part of a team and have good communication skills. Normal Board activities include: • Assuring that adequate funding is available; • Assessing the needs of the community and advocating for the library; • The development and revision of library policy; • The development and implementation of a vision and strategic plan; • Assisting the Library Director in implementation of the strategic plan in accordance with Policy. New board members must be willing to attend training and information sessions designed to assist them in the work they undertake on behalf of the Invermere Library Board. Interested persons are invited to submit written applications on or before Deceeber 11th, 2020 at 4 p.m. to: Kindry Luyendyk Corporate Officer Box 339, Invermere, BC V0A 1K0 or to corporateservices@invermere.net
6 • The Columbia Valley Pioneer
November 28, 2020
PERSPECTIVE
Garbage system By Camille Aubin camille@columbiavalleypioneer.com
We live in the territory of magnificent wildlife; we should be as respectful as a guest in someone else’s place. More often than not, we forget about this. We behave like we own this place, this valley, and we don’t think twice about any repercussions our actions might have on wildlife. We should feel lucky enough to live here in this beautiful area surrendered by nature and all the species that enjoy the same fresh air as us. In the Pioneer’s Nov. 12 issue, Invermere mayor Al Miller, spoke about the new residential garbage bins, “these (heavy steel fabricated containers) are very, very, very expensive. I imagine most residents would be pretty unhappy at paying the bills involved in getting those. And they would not be easily transportable, not by any stretch.” If we cannot afford this protection to our wildlife, what can we do, as a community, that is cost-efficient, so wildlife doesn’t have to pay the ultimate sacrifice? Did we think further than the cost of an appropriate system? Did we think about the repercussion on us, on our safety? But most importantly, did we consider the harmful side effect on the bear life or any wildlife. Not reflecting on this is an easy way to forget about this problem, our problem, and put it on the bears shoulder. If, as a community, we are unhappy to invest in adequate containers to keep the wildlife wild, we must act and compensate for that. How? Corinna Strauss, WildSafe BC Columbia Valley community coordinator, advised us, in that same issue, to put our garbage bin in a place where the animals cannot reach it. Advice might not be powerful enough. We must keep our garbage out of the way. It should already be done by now. Look around town, and you will see black bins standing in front of the main door of many residencies. So, what happens to a bear that keeps coming back for our trash once the animal understands how to crack it? We will most likely relocate him or even kill him, if he shows behaviour that he has become too familiar with humans. We can do this. We own this place. Maybe a solution is to put a bylawin place to persuade people to act, as the recommendation doesn’t go far enough. Just like the B.C. government, which has just made medical masks mandatory, we must act and change our habits with a sense of urgency. Keeping bears wild should bring the same feeling of seriousness. We must act now. It is a critical period for us, and for them.
Historical Lens A great fish story! Joyce and Bill Holland with 17 rainbow trouts caught in the Columbia Lake. C2200, 1946, courtesy Windermere District Historical Society
Feeling dehumanized Dear Editor:
It seems like just yesterday, but it was actually feb. 1 that we were to isolate for two weeks to prevent the spread of COVID-19. Then, it became another two weeks and then another two weeks and then another...it is now nine months! My mother is in Ivy House, and I have not seen her in nine months, except through a small window. No hug, no touching, just a small window! Thanksgiving came and went without my 96 year old mother, who is cognizant of what is going on. The staff at Ivy House are in no way responsible for the fact that I cannot see my mother! They have to follow the protocol laid out for them by the Minister of Health! In fact, I am are so appreciated for the excellent care they are giving my mother. The family was recently told that one of us could visit mom once a week, but only one of us. My younger sister filled that position. So I still couldn’t see my mom. To not be able to see my elderly mother for nine months when she is 96 years old is cruel and unusual punishment. Health Officials are changing the dynamics of society worldwide. Are they the new dictators of the world? It’s an extremely authoritarian view of which our behaviour should be – it smacks of nazism: no partying, no socializing, no touching etc. Understand those good intentions can be bad ideas!
Shutting down the economy is a bad idea. Use your farsighted to see this is true! Taking the being out of human beings is a bad idea. We are organic; it is a fact that we are meant to die. It’s natural. To use psychology against humankind to deliberately impose fearmongering is a crime against humanity. Fear porn = false evidence appearing real poisoning our rights and norms! “It is no measure of health to be well adjusted to a profoundly sick society.” Does anyone else feel dehumanized? That our freedoms are taking another blow? Is not social distancing an oxymoron? Is not new normal an oxymoron? Is not thinking and questioning part of being a human being? Is there not a difference between expertise and common sense? Is not this pandemic a plague of corruption? What is the real agenda? We must wake up and do our own research – talk about it – share your knowledge! Be brothers + sisters. Did our creator not give us an immune system? We all are learn with adenoids and tonsils, which are part of our lymphatic system. They are meant to clear away infection and keep bodily fluids in check. Our health is always determined by our own immune system, how strong or weak it is – Good health to all! Breathe the fresh B.C. air and enjoy the sunshine while you can. A human Being. Margaret Porcina
The Columbia Valley
CANADIAN COMMUNITY NEWSPAPER AWARD 2013
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is independently owned and operated, published weekly by Robert W. Doull, President and Publisher, Misko Publishing Limited Partnership. Box 868, #8, 1008 - 8th Ave., Invermere, B.C. V0A 1K0
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The Columbia Valley Pioneer is available free of charge at 13 essential businesses in the Upper Columbia Valley, limited to one copy per reader. This publication has been made possible, in part, by the Government of Canada and the support of our advertisers and is published every Thursday. The Columbia Valley Pioneer may be distributed only by its authorized contractors and employees. No person may, without the prior written consent of The Pioneer or its Publisher, take more than one copy of each issue of The Pioneer. The content is protected by copyright. Reproduction by any means is prohibited except with the permission of the Publisher.
November 28, 2020
LETTERS
Unmasking truth Dear Editor: During the trial that accompanied Jesus’ passion and death, Pontius Pilate posed the question, “What is truth ?”. It’s an important question. If you’ve been following the election in the land of our neighbours to the south, and in particular, listening to her current leader, “Truth” has been AWOL, missing in action throughout the election campaign and, indeed, the duration of the current Administration. The concerted effort to mislead people has been especially damaging to the health and lives of America’s citizens during this pandemic. To date, the death toll in the US has exceeded 245,000, and active cases continue to rise. Canada continues its struggle with COVID as well but on a much smaller scale. Joni Mitchell, a Canadian icon, famously sang, “Don’t it always seem to go, that you don’t know what you got till it’s gone”. In those lyrics, she gave us one of those universal truths that says much about the current state of our world. I think about all the first responders, the doctors, nurses, police officers, teachers, and others trying so hard to cope with a sad and devastating reality that refuses to go away. And the truth is that many continue to be in denial about it. Refusal to accept science has brought great pain and cost many lives. No one would deny the complexity of the pandemic that has overtaken us and the challenge it presents to our lives, our health and our economy. There is no easy way out of its grip. But pretending it is “rounding the corner” and ignoring the advice of science is denying the truth, and that contravenes efforts to resolve this crisis. There are moral consequences of denying the truth. Human lives continue to be lost because of it. Don’t we have a responsibility to defend truth, to commit ourselves to it? When the truth is abandoned at the expense of others, everyone loses. Democracy cannot survive without truth. Tom Graves, Radium Hot Springs
The dark side of the new garbage system Dear editor: I am, first of all, a senior. I read all the instructions last week on how to prepare both garbage and recycle bins. When wheeling out the garbage this week, I hit a section of ice and shot forward, trying to control this awkward bin. I managed to recover. It felt as if I was holding up a runaway Rickshaw in India. My neighbour kindly places it back by my garage door as I can’t manage it up the slight slope of my driveway. This morning, I went out to my garage, determined to follow directions placing items in blue bags, so the paper is not scattered in the wind by the dumping process. I am not a monkey with long arms and was unable to reach the bottom items. I did manage to load up three bags, with the lid falling down and banging me on my head as I tried to reach the bottom items. I am still not able to find chip #. The new collection is the way to go, with a lot of work put into the design of operation and bins. I thank the town council for all the work put into this new system. I only wish the bins came in smaller versions with a less awkward wheeling system. Joan Birkett, Invermere
We want to hear from you Email your letters to info@columbiavalleypioneer.com or visit our website at www. columbiavalleypioneer.com. Mail your letters to Box 868, Invermere, V0A 1K0, or drop them in at #8 1008-8th Avenue. Letters to the editor should be sent only to The Pioneer, and not to other publications. We do not publish open letters or third-party
letters. Letters for publication should be no longer than 400 words, and must include the writer’s address and phone numbers. No attachments, please. Letters may be shortened for space requirements. We reserve the right to edit for space, clarity, civility and accuracy. Opinions expressed are those of the writer, not The Pioneer.
The Columbia Valley Pioneer • 7
Radium bike trail
Dear Editor:
I was visiting with a friend from the North Coast, she has been a commercial fisher for fifty years, a hatchery manager and representative on many federal and provincial panels looking into the crash of our British Columbia fish stocks. I asked her what she thought had had the greatest impact on fish. She said, “There was no one thing, it was death by a thousand cuts”. A few weeks ago, it was pointed out in the Pioneer that every time we see a pickup truck with a pair of bicycles hanging on the tailgate, we should imagine $125 per bike being deposited in our bank account. But the reality of the tailgate bike vision as portrayed in advertising and thrill-craft videos is a person hyped on adrenaline riding a knobby tired bicycle cutting a dirt trail through wildland plant communities and careening down gouged out trails. Regarding the proposed Invermere - Radium bike trail: strategies to protect our diminishing valley bottom grasslands from vandalism are needed. Grasslands are the most endangered habitat in the Province, in all makeup only 2 per cent. Impact assessments of the effects of such an explosive intrusion are needed. Inviting tens of thousands of unaware recreationists into an arid grassland environment or alpine habitat for that matter is a sure death by knobby tired cuts for endangered plant communities and the animals that rely on them. The area below Dry Gulch is in the Columbia Wetland Wildlife Management Area, a designation that puts wildlife values first. Paving a road through CWMA prime winter range and turning tens of thousands of unaware bicycle riders and irresponsible thrill seekers loose on wheels in a protected area is reckless. “No Wheels” is the right concept for this area. A place that respects natural values and provides a wildland park setting adjacent to Radium is needed. We had already witnessed the uncaring destruction of the last valley bottom refuge of the Radium Big Horn Sheep when “Greenways”, began advertising the Old Coach Road as a destination for mechanized recreation. While one expects recreational activity at ski hills Mt. Swansea, another Mountain Sheep winter range and Steamboat Mountain have been illegally transformed and are now advertised as rangeland recreation destinations. Is it possible to have fun without destroying wildland habitat? Trails carrying mechanized recreationists between villages can run alongside established transportation corridors where along with other vehicles, there is an opportunity to regulate activities, mitigate impacts and prevent the further vandalism of critical grassland habitat. P Christensen, Radium Hot Springs
Synurbization Dear Editor: Scientists have a term for it: synurbization. Synurbization, or “urban wildlife syndrome” is the adjustments birds and wild animals make in adapting, or trying to adapt, to the loss of their habitat; it’s a worldwide phenomenon. Symptoms appeared here almost 20 years ago with urban deer. Instead of researching cause and preventative, governments blew millions destroying evidence that we even have a problem. Besides the industrial deer cull, BC conservation(?) officers in the past eight years killed 4,341 black bears and 162 grizzly bears — 542 black bears and 26 grizzlies in 2019. Starving and emaciated, bears were shot because “they lost their fear of man;” that’ll teach them! Humans have a reputation of exploiting our planets fellow lifeforms. In the past 500 years we’ve caused the extinction of over 800 species. Since 1970 while humanity doubled, the populations of mammals, birds, amphibians, and reptiles have plummeted by a staggering 68 percent. Recently BC lost half of its elk population. Now government is considering exterminating 80 percent of the wolf population — so they don’t eat the last of the starving caribou. What do wildlife experts say? Hate to remind you: there are no wildlife experts; there is no science or scientists either. Stephan Harper got rid of all that — Trudeau never put it back. Experts would have foreseen and prevented this mess. We have economists. Business committees calculate the economics of whether animals live or die. If there was any sincerity for a solution, we’d be addressing the cause not the symptoms. This is no time to remain silent. Bryan Stawychny, Edgewater
8 • The Columbia Valley Pioneer
November 28, 2020
Summit Youth Hub won BCPVPA Partnership Awards “This year, mental health initiatives have been the main focus of the Youth Hub. The staff at the Youth Hub collaborated with local schools to provide an eight-week mental wellness series to students in Grades 4-7, across the Columbia Valley.”
riers, such as transportation, that prevent youth from accessing support at the Hub. Youth Workers will be able to connect with youth and build trust and healthy relaThe B.C. Principals’ & Vice-Principals’ Association tionships, while teachers will benefit from the expertise (BCPVPA) Partnership Awards acknowledge the valuof our Youth Workers. We know that working in partnerable support provided to Principals, ship with schools increases students’ Vice-Principals, teachers and students success. When students see their larger by individuals and groups who have, community working together to supover an extended period of time, port them, they see their value and shared their time, energy and experthey benefit from a network of cartise to support schools. Partners are ing individuals.” said Kelsey Prichard, nominated by the BCPVPA’s local Award recipient and centre director at Chapters. Lisa Tenta is the chapter the time. president for the Rocky Mountain The Partnership Award print feaPrincipals and Vice Principals. She tures an owl and eagle. The artist Bill had the opportunity to give the award Bedard explained that the eagle travto the Summit Youth Hub. els between the physical world and In the nomination letter, Tenta exspiritual world and signifies focus, plained why the Summit deserves the strength, peace, leadership, and presaward, “Over the past year the Youth tige. The Owl reflects the wisdom Centre has supported 163 youth and the world of educators and their through the Food Insecurity Project. supporters because “the work does not Youth attending the Summit Youth end when the students go home, but Centre identified a need for a program requires many nights of hard work and that would support their food-related reflection as we strive to prepare our needs after school, on weekends, and students for a better tomorrow.” through the summer months. To supA short period of time after port this initiative, Youth Centre staff their reopening, due to the updated reached out to the Columbia Valley Submitted photo of Lisa Tenta, chapter president for the Rocky Mountain Principals and Vice COVID-19 provincial restrictions, Food Bank, parents, schools, and comthe Youth Centre has been required Principals and Kelsey Prichard Award recipient and centre director at the time. munity volunteers. They received so to close until Dec. 7. The Centre has much support from the community through in-kind do“We are humbled to be nominated for this award. planned some interactive online activities for the next few nations, volunteer hours and grant funds that they were Providing our support inside schools is so important. weeks to keep in touch with the youth. Visit invermereable to provide summer lunches and after school meals It means that students receive information and services summityouthcentre.org/ for more information or contact to children and youth across the Columbia Valley.” and from the Youth Centre right at school! This reduces bar- the Centre by email at summit.centre@gmail.com. By Camille Aubin camille@columbiavalleypioneer.com
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The Columbia Valley Pioneer • 9
Gentlemen’s Christmas Lunch cancelled Submitted by Gentlemen’s Christmas Lunch Organizing Team By this time of year our invitations are normally all sent. They always start with stating the purpose of the day. “It is the season of Christmas and you as a seasoned gentleman are invited to share in the fellowship, humour and fine food in the spirit of camaraderie and good will towards others.” This year would be the 22nd consecutive year for the Gentlemen’s Christmas Lunch, but the Covid 19 pandemic means that the lunch will have to be cancelled this year. So although we will not be able to sit through some of the groaners which pass as humour and endure some interest-
ing and unique song stylings from some of the tables, we are determined to continue with the parts of the program that we can do. We can still share in fellowship and good humour – just not all in the same place. We can still have fine food – but you’ll have to make it yourself and we can still provide good will towards others. This year we will continue with the tradition of asking gentlemen to make a contribution so we can support local families in need. You can expect your invitation soon with the details. While we cannot get together, we can still make a difference. Be kind, be safe and be generous. Merry Christmas to all.
The spirit of giving Submitted by the Columbia Valley Community Foundation According to reports from Imagine Canada and reporting in The Star, over one in five charities across Canada have ceased programs or suspended operations because of the ongoing COVID pandemic. Over 70% of charities nationwide have seen revenues drop by at least one third at a time when demand for assistance is severely outstripping resources. Worstcase projections have the charitable sector losing over $15 billion in fundraising and donations in 2020 due to the pandemic. In our community, charities provide social assistance, food security, youth mental health, bereavement and elder support, and many other vital programs that assist our family members, neighbours, and friends. The generosity of those living in the
Upper Columbia is unsurpassed. This year, with the support of over 200 donors and government grants, the Columbia Valley Community Foundation has distributed $126,000 in emergent COVID relief to local charities, but the need remains great. Tuesday, Dec. 1 marks the eighth anniversary of Giving Tuesday, encouraging Canadians to donate time and resources to organizations close to their hearts. The Columbia Valley Community Foundation encourages you to offer your support. Funds can be donated through our website at www.valleyfoundation.ca/ community-response-fund/. Charitable receipts will be issued for donations of $20 or more. Donations may also be sent directly to your charities of choice. As we continue to deal with the fallout from the COVID pandemic, the needs of our community have never been more pressing.
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To our are valued shoppers and donors Donation Notice Donations will only be accepted Wednesday and Thursday, 9 am – 4 pm until further notice. Illegal drop offs outside these hours will be monitored.
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10 • The Columbia Valley Pioneer
Proposals delivered no later than 4:00pm (MT), December 3rd, 2020 clearly marked Kinsmen Beach Water Sports Proposals in a sealed envelope. Proposals received after the stipulated time will be rejected and returned to the individual unopened. Faxed or e-mailed proposals are acceptable. If mailed use the address provided below: District of Invermere 914 – 8th Avenue Invermere, BC V0A 1K0 There will be no public opening for this Invitation for Proposal. Proposals will be opened privately by District of Invermere after the closing time specified for receipt of Proposals. If you wish to contact District of Invermere in response to the awarding, please do so after the closing time specified above. The Owner reserves the right not to award a contract at all, and the highest or any Proposal will not necessarily be accepted. For information please contact or Kindry Luyendyk at 250-342-9281. DISTRICT DISTRICT OF OF INVERMERE INVERMERE
914 – 8th Avenue, PO Box 339 Invermere, B.C. V0A 1K0 Tel: 250-342-9281 • Fax: 250-342-2934
INVITATION FOR PROPOSALS Kinsmen Beach Concession The District of Invermere (“Owner”) invites Proposals for the 2020 Kinsmen Beach Concession contract. Contract documents may be viewed at or obtained from the Municipal office at 914 8th Avenue Invermere or the website at www.invermere.net. Proposals delivered no later than 4:00pm (MT), December 3rd, 2020 clearly marked Kinsmen Beach Concession Proposals in a sealed envelope. Proposals received after the stipulated time will be rejected and returned to the individual unopened. Faxed or e-mailed Proposals are acceptable and will be. If mailed use the address provided below: District of Invermere 914 – 8th Avenue Invermere, BC V0A 1K0 There will be no public opening for this Invitation for Proposal. Proposals will be opened privately by District of Invermere after the closing time specified for receipt of Proposals. If you wish to contact District of Invermere in response to the awarding, please do so after the closing time specified above. The Owner reserves the right not to award a contract at all, and the highest or any Proposal will not necessarily be accepted. For information please contact Kindry Luyendyk at 250-342-9281.
D
The District of Invermere (“Owner”) invites Proposals for the 2021 Kinsmen Beach Water Sports contract. Contract documents may be viewed at or obtained from the Municipal office at 914 8th Avenue Invermere or the website at www.invermere.net.
After working in administration at the Tobacco Plains Indian Band for nearly 30 years, Evelyn Caroline Basil developed Type 2 diabetes and high blood pressure. The now 63-year-old Tobacco Plains member, who is part of the Ktunaxa Nation, was 55 years old at the time made a difficult decision. She resigned from work to mitigate the health risks that stem from working in an office with a sedentary lifestyle to focus on reducing daily stressors, developing a meal plan and implementing an exercise plan. “I always said when I’m 50, I’m going to quit working and go to learn silverworking,” she said. “But the years just kept creeping by and creeping by, and I pushed myself into it when I got sick. Now, I really love it.” But in 2017, after the winter’s craft fairs and Christmas markets were completed, Basil suffered from a heart attack. “I’ll never forget it,” she said. “It was the day that Donald Trump was sworn into office as the president. I told my husband that I was going outside to work on the porch and was hammering designs on these two heartshaped pieces for a project I was working on when I knew something was wrong, so I told him and we ended up going to Calgary for (treatment).” But as a resilient person, Basil found positivity in the experience of taking time away from work and focused on the cathartic nature of learning how to become a silversmith and making jewelry. “When I quit work, I staved off the inevitable,” she said. While Basil is largely self-taught, she credits a lot of what she learned to free and paid-for content to learn about silversmithing from online video tutorials as well as through trial and error. She believes it took roughly three years to gain proficiency in the artistry of becoming a silversmith, while learning how to properly sauter, create hinges and set stones. Now, Basil focuses on creating culturally significant artwork as an Indigenous jeweller with an expansive list of products ranging from rings to earrings, and silver-plated necklaces that are one-of-a-kind. “I try to recreate some of the items that were worn
LE
Kinsmen Beach Water Sports
By Breanne Massey Local Journalism Initiative Reporter
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INVITATION FOR PROPOSALS
Ktunaxa jeweller finds solace
NC
914 – 8th Avenue, PO Box 339 Invermere, B.C. V0A 1K0 Tel: 250-342-9281 • Fax: 250-342-2934
7th Annual
back in the early days that I’ve seen in pictures in the 1800s and 1900s, but a lot of the pieces that men wore were ceremonial,” said Basil. “A lot of the pieces that they wore daily were plain. Just straight silver discs and things like that where as ceremonial wear would have claws and feathers and teeth. They were used in the dress, so I try to recreate them and a lot of people wear them in the dayto-day, and they are appealing to the eye, so I try to recreate those patterns. It’s not for everybody but I find a lot of the younger crowd, they like the more trendier pieces that kind of follow a certain line of where there’s a lot of bling on them. I use a lot of gemstones that are made in Canada that have an Indigenous story with them.” While the Ktunaxa were traditionally known for their intricate beadwork, it was never the art that appealed to Basil so she’s focused on incorporating culturally significant materials into her designs as a jeweller. “The elk was, and still is, a big part of our culture, so just about everything on the elk we used (historically) in one form or another,” said Basil. “We used the hip bones to make our saddles. Elk ivory was always used for jewelry, so I’m trying to develop what I consider a Ktunaxa platform in silver jewelry.” Members of the Ktunaxa Nation will often provide antlers, elk ivory or animal paws to Basil to incorporate into her crafts. She aims to feature plants and animals in her handcrafted jewelry. However, Basil does not restrict her craftsmanship to Ktunaxa designs. “Basically, a lot of it, I try to draw on the cultural aspects, even if it’s not our own,” she said. “When I make a piece with labradorite, I bring up the story of the people in labrador and the area where it’s from. They look at it as a salmon stone because the people were cast into the stone, and that’s why you get all the different colours then the people come out and play at night. That’s the aurora borealis, then they go back into the stone.” She hopes culturally significant jewellery can help to raise awareness to the teachings of Indigenous people in Canada. To learn more about Basil’s jewelry or to view it, please visit www.facebook.com/TobaccoPlainsGifts or www. facebook.com/Line49Auctions-2698784100347209.
We’re Hiring!
CA
DISTRICT DISTRICT OF OF INVERMERE INVERMERE
November 28, 2020
Due to new COVID-19 restrictions, the coming together to light the Hospice “Tree of Lights” ceremony is canceled. The lights will still be turned on for each tree in Radium Hot Springs, Invermere, Fairmont Hot Springs and Canal Flats, but there will no gathering of people. The Hospice is encouraging everyone to still purchase a light for $10 to commemorate a loved one, by visiting our website or by calling the office at 778-526-5143. The purchase of the lights will continue until December 24th. Lighting a ‘candle’ is not only to remember those we lost, but is also a universal symbol of hope. The year 2020 has been challenging for our communities and the world and people experienced loss in more than one way. The Hospice invites everyone to light up and make wishes for a better year to come.
www.hospicesocietycv.com
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Are you a self-starter with 3 to 5 years HR experience? Do you enjoy diverse work? Apply by Dec. 6.
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November 28, 2020
The Columbia Valley Pioneer • 11
Fuel management program concludes
By Breanne Massey Local Journalism Initiative A safety moment at Panorama Mountain Resort has united the Shuswap Indian Band (SIB), Wildlands Eco-Forestry Inc. (WEF), the BC Wildlife Service (BCWFS) and the Panorama Mountain Resort community this autumn. Up to nine hectares of Panorama Mountain Resort lands were recently treated in a fuel management project geared toward protecting the public and preventing wildfires from spreading in the core of the resort and beyond. The primary objective of this year’s fuel management program was a trifecta: to ensure public safety, to protect the structural integrity of the community, and to mitigate the risk of potential forest fires before the summer of 2021 on lands that the Sécwepemc historically utilized for traplines in the southeastern corner of the province — those same lands remain part of the SIB’s traditional territory in the Columbia Valley. “This contract comes after years of Shuswap and other entities trying to bring attention to the need for Wildfire Protection in the area of Panorama,” explained Sierra Stump, SIB’s interim lands manager to the Pioneer by e-mail. “It is our hope that through this project, the B.C. Government will support and endorse the SIB leading projects of all types within our traditional territory and that partnerships like the one (that was just completed), we will create with the Frontline Operations Group (and) will continue to flourish.” Between Oct. 13 and Nov. 6, the SIB and their longstanding partnerships with WEF, and a last minute assist from Jake Roos of Loki Tree Service, the fuel management program on Crown land was successfully completed with BCWFS. “This was accomplished by crews from the (SIB) manually removing smaller diameter trees, pruning of retained trees to reduce ladder fuels, and the removal of
This year’s fuel management program at Panorama Mountain Resort was recently completed thanks to a collaborative community effort. Submitted photo excess fuel accumulations on the ground,” said Reg Nolander, senior manager or major projects at the Mountain Resorts Branch on behalf of the Ministry of Forests, Lands, Natural Resource Operations and Rural Development. “The gathered fuel was then piled and burned. The result is an improved (standing) healthy forest stand and a readily defensible, safe area in which the local Fire Department and BC Wildfire Service can suppress fires.” In addition, the fuel management program at Panorama Mountain Resort created three employment opportunities for SIB members to work as labourers, First Aid responders and chainsaw operators. “As someone who has worked with the SIB for sev-
eral years locally, it’s wonderful news to be involved in more of these projects and for the band to get credit for treating the lands and protecting the SIB members and lands, as well as all of the associated communities nearby,” said Brad Munroe, WEF spokesperson. “The SIB has worked with DOI on a number of past partnerships, and I think it’s worth mentioning the expanding role that the SIB can play in the community.” To learn more about the Crown Land Fire Risk Reduction projects in B.C., please visit www2.gov.bc.ca/ gov/content/safety/wildfire-status/prevention/funding-for-wildfire-prevention/crip/wrr
Cathartic beading business flourishes By Breanne Massey Local Journalism Initiative Reporter During the throes of adolescence, Amanda Joe had inner aspirations to learn the art of Ktunaxa beadwork. As the daughter of a residential school survivor, she did not grow up beading with family. But she did learn how to perform on the pow wow trail with her family. “I did grow up learning how to sing,” she explained. “We had a drum group in my family with my mom, my auntie and sisters — singing the old Ktunaxa songs, and we started travelling with our drum group, then I started becoming more familiar with other tribes and seeing how all of their regalia were fully beaded and I wanted a fully beaded regalia — that was my goal. At that time, that was my goal.” At the mere age of 17, Joe set out to learn how to bead through trial and error. She also would sit with elders from the Akisqnuk First Nation community and watch others bead to learn more about the cultural protocols and techniques passed down for generations. “I started learning how to bead on my own and over the years, I just learned from my mistakes and kept perfecting what works best for my artwork,” said Joe. “For just over 20 years now, I’ve been beading.” Today, the 40-year-old artisan and member of the Aq’am community has successfully met her goal of beading distinctly Ktunaxa regalia for herself, adding details to it gradually over time.
She has also devoted time toward making fully beaded regalia for each of her children with nearly every passing summer. In fact, Joe now accepts custom beading orders to make regalia, earrings, brooches and necklaces for others upon requests. “I really like it. I have my whole system down now where I can get a project done,” she said. “I can get a pair of earrings down in a day-and-a-half. When I first started, it would take me a month to finish a beret. Now I can get two-or-three projects done a week.” Over time, Joe has learned how to bead her family’s crest and how to be respectful to other families by checking with elders if certain designs are apt in her work. Culturally, she has learned how to focus on her state of mind before beginning any new beading projects. “I was self-taught, but there are certain protocols that I was taught,” she said about beading. “Even though I wasn’t specifically taught (how to bead), I learned that you shouldn’t bead when you’re feeling angry from elders. You should only bead when you’re feeling good because it’s like medicine. There’s generations of knowledge that you’re putting into your project and you want good things so you want good energy with it.” She encourages others from the community to be mindful of their state of mind before embarking on new beading projects and to consult with elders to ensure the designs can be used in an ethical, safe way that respects local Ktunaxa members. Continued on page 13
The Christmas Bureau of the Columbia Valley is a non-profit organization that provides assistance to families in need over Christmas. Everyone should be able to celebrate the season without the added stress and financial burden that often comes with it, so each family is provided a grocery gift card, a small box of “goodies” and a gift for children aged 12 and under and a gift certificate for teens 12 through 18. In order to do this, the generous support of the Columbia Valley community is needed. There are a variety of ways you can help: 1. Sponsor an individual or family (or families) at a cost of $100-$300/ family depending on the family size. This means you provide the funds to cover the cost of the grocery gift card and also assemble a wrapped gift box of goodies (shoe-box size). If you are unable to assemble the gift box, there is an option to provide an additional $25 to cover that cost. 2. Make a flat donation to the Christmas Bureau. 3. If you are not able to provide funds to cover the cost of the grocery certificate but you want to help, you may choose to donate a box of “goodies”. 4. Donate any items that would be suitable to enclose in a gift box, such as candy, baking, toothbrushes, soaps, dish/face cloths, games, puzzles, crayons, coloring books, scratch tickets, homemade items, etc. These items will then be used by the volunteers to make “goodie” boxes for any unsponsored families. 5. Visit one of the Angel trees at Fields, Red Apple or Main Street Fun and Games, pick up a tag and purchase a gift for a child and/or senior. Return wrapped and labeled gifts to the store by December 10th. Email cvcb@shaw.ca or call Angie at 250-342-2611 to advise how you would like to support or if you have any questions. If you are a family in need of support over the Christmas season, registration forms are available at The Family Dynamix Association, Shuswap Band Hall, Akisq’nuk Band Hall, Ministry of Children and Family Development and the Canal Flats Food Bank or email cvcb@shaw.ca. Find us on Facebook.
12 • The Columbia Valley Pioneer
November 28, 2020
Motorists urged to slow down, drive with caution in wake of bighorn sheep fatalities in Radium Pair of mature ewes killed in collisions as rut season begins
By Steve Hubrecht steve@columbiavalleypioneer.com Wildlife enthusiasts in Radium Hot Springs are asking the driving public to slow down and drive with caution in the village, and indeed throughout the Columbia Valley, particularly during the fall rut season, after two bighorn sheep were hit and killed in Radium recently. The first incident happened in late October, just north of Radium, when a vehicle struck a mature bighorn ewe on Highway 95. She was hit by a southbound vehicle in the 60 kilometre per hour zone at the bottom of the hill approaching the new Radium Hot Springs roundabout. The sheep was hit with enough force that its body was propelled more than 40 metres down the highway, ending up on the opposite side of the road. There were “no vehicle skid marks present on the highway surface to show there was even an attempt to slow down before impact, (and the) only things present at scene were many, many broken plastic parts from the vehicle, which were spread around the impact area,” noted local avid outdoorsman Kent Kebe, adding the sheep’s 16 month old male lamb stayed at the scene waiting by itself for quite some time after the collison. The second bighorn fatality occurred in early November, when a vehicle hit and killed another mature bighorn ewe on the Forster’s Landing Road on the way from the Radium roundabout down to the mill. “From what I can see, it was probably a big semi truck, as there were no vehicle parts left on the road (which suggests the vehicle was large and strong enough not to be damaged by colliding with the animal). It happened at 8 p.m., after dark, and there were, again, no skid marks to indicate an effort to stop,” said Kebe, adding this incident occurred in a 50 kilometre zone, and given that the sheep was more than 200 feet down the road from the collision site, speeding may well have been a factor. Both ewes were likely around five or six years old, according to Kebe. “People driving through Radium, be they visitors or locals, need to realize they are in a bighorn sheep zone and drive accordingly,” Kebe told the Pioneer, adding the north end of Radium, as well as the Radium hill (coming south out of the village, heading to Invermere), are particularly notorious spots for vehicle-related wildlife fatalities and that bighorn sheep are often the biggest victims in these zones.
The two sheep fatalities came when Radium’s famous bighorn sheep started into their annual rut (mating season), which typically lasts from early November until some point in December. Kebe outlined that this timing is anything but a coincidence. “The rams are cruising constantly during the rut, moving from the Springs (golf course) to the restoration area to the Resort (golf course) to the Radium hill to near the hot pools. They’re looking for ewes, and they are a bit more focused on that and are not as skittish of vehicles or people as they are at other times of
“People driving through Radium, be they visitors or locals, need to realize they are in a bighorn sheep zone and drive accordingly.” Kent Kebe, Radium outdoorsman year,” Kebe told the Pioneer. “So this is typically the time of year we see more rams getting hit.” When the Pioneer spoke with Kebe in mid November, he noted that the bighorns had begun congregating on the Radium hill, a spot they like in winter because snow tends to be somewhat less deep on the steep roadside slopes beside the highway on the hill, which makes it easier for them to get food, but also leaves them in close proximity to Highway 93/95, a proximity that proves deadly to multiple sheep every year. Kebe estimates that Radium herd loses an average of between eight to 20 of its members to vehicle collisions each year. “People would be shocked if they knew how much wildlife gets hit on the highways in the Columbia Valley. The amount of roadkill is almost overwhelming. There is a lot. A lot. And all kinds: the sheep get hit all the time, but also elk, mule deer, whitetail deer, black bears, coyotes. The only thing I haven’t found lying in the ditch on the Radium hill yet is a moose or a grizzly bear,” said Kebe. Kebe talked with the Pioneer shortly after completing a bighorn count, which is something Kebe and fellow wildlife enthusiasts try to conduct every few weeks through the fall. The count takes in Radium as well as two other areas on the Rockies side of the Columbia Valley popular with bighorn sheep: Mount Swansea and Stoddart Creek. The mid November count was the third of the year, and Kebe and colleagues Submitted by Anil-Emre Ayik spotted 60 sheep. The
Submitted by Denise Hoffgaard first count found 138 sheep, the second found 130. The low number on the third count is no reason to panic, as Kebe pointed out that count numbers can vary quite a lot, depending on weather conditions, seasonal factors such as food availability, and the sheep’s propensity to wander around a lot. “It’s quite likely that the sheep decided to move up a bit with the storm, going up to steep slopes where the snow is perhaps not as deep, instead of staying in the village, where the snowdrifts and accumulates,” said Kebe, referencing the relatively heavy mid-November snowfall that was covering the Columbia Valley when the Pioneer spoke with him. “It’ll change. When winter comes, and the snow is deep up high, there will be a lot of sheep in the village during our counts.” Kebe, in fact, was delighted to have spotted three bighorn sheep in Stoddart Creek during the mid-November count, and 14 at Swansea during the second count. “It’s been a while since we’ve seen them at Stoddart, so that’s great,” he said. The B.C. Ministry of Transportation and Infrastructure, B.C. Ministry of Environment, Parks Canada, Village of Radium Hot Springs, Lake Windermere District Rod and Gun Club and other groups have been collectively looking at different options that could help reduce bighorn sheep fatalities at the Radium hill. “The idea is to see if fencing plus an overpass or underpass is feasible for the bighorn sheep and other wildlife,” said Kebe, adding if it is a success, this would not only help the sheep, but also make the situation safer for the public by reducing collisions. “But fencing could end up pushing animals to cross in certain places, which may possibly turn out not to be a good thing,” he added. “Let’s hope it comes out as a positive if it goes ahead.” “Something needs to be done, as the overall bighorn sheep numbers are indeed dwindling”, said Kebe, pointing out that the Radium herd numbered about 240 sheep just 30 years ago and is now down to 140 sheep. The problem could get a good deal worse relatively soon, with the construction work on the TransCanada Highway scheduled for 2021 expected to close the Kicking Horse Canyon between Lake Louise and Golden. This will leave TransCanada traffic re-routed down Highway 93 from Lake Louise to Radium, then up to Golden on Highway 95. Kebe noted this will bring a tremendous increase in volume of vehicle traffic through Radium, which will likely negatively affect the bighorn sheep. Continued on page 13
November 28, 2020 “The new roundabout in Radium is another factor that has the potential to adversely affect the bighorn sheep,” explained Kebe. “It’s wonderful for traffic, much more efficient. It’s great for drivers, no question about it,” he said. “But what we’ve noticed is that traffic is going noticeably quicker because of the roundabout and the added lanes. That could be bad for the sheep.” “Radium is known internationally for its bighorn sheep herd, and people literally come from all over the world to the village to see such wildlife,” pointed out Kebe. “They are important, we need to look after them,” he said. “Right now is actually a nice time of year for people, either visitors or valley locals, to come look at the sheep, and take in the spectacle of the rut. You can get some great photos. And it’s quite unique, because the sheep actually come to us, here in the village.” “Observing the rut hasn’t always been quite as easy as it is now,” noted Kebe. “Sheep didn’t always live right in the village, although they have always been on the Radium hill,” said Kebe, adding their move right into Radium has been driven partly by the change in vegetation around Radium and throughout the Columbia Valley over the past century, and partly by the addition of golf courses — which the bighorn sheep find make decent enough winter habitat — in Radium. “If you look at photos of Radium 100 years ago, you can see there was no thick vegetation really anywhere. Continued ‘Cathartic beadind’ from page 11 “Ask elders if it’s okay to use designs before beading to ensure you’re not using a family’s design,” she explained of the ethical protocols from the community. “Generally each tribe has different designs in their artwork. For example, the plains tribes will have more symmetrical designs with squares and diamonds, whereas tribes around this area will have florals. You’ll notice a lot of flowers in the beadwork, and a long time ago, that’s how you could tell where someone is from at pow wows. It would be a lot more flowers that you’d see in this area. Like four or five petal flowers.” Lately, Joe has focused on beading animals from the Ktunaxa Creation Story to honour and respect their contributions to living on the land, and local flowers that are reminiscent of her childhood in the Columbia Valley. “In mine, you’ll see a lot of different flowers and a lot of them are symbolic,” she said. “You’ll see a lot of purple crocuses in my beadwork. To me, that is a memory that is special because my Dad would make me flower crowns out of crocuses. He passed away when I was 17, so when I miss him, I’ve noticed that a lot of purple crocuses will show up in my bead.” But the cultural significance of moccasins has remained one of her favourite pastimes. She makes them for her children to pass down cultural beliefs in her family and values that moccasins can be worn to ceremonies. “Moccasins are probably my favourite because of the cultural significance that it has,” she said. “When I’m making those for my kids, I know that when they’re using it, it will help with our culture beliefs. I feel that when I’m making things like that for them to take into ceremonies, it holds a lot more meaning. It has a lot more sentimental value from our cultural roots.” To view some of her work, please visit Ktunaxa. QT on Instagram at www.instagram.com/ktunaxa. qt/ or on Facebook at www.facebook.com/ktunaxaqt-Amanda-Joes-Creations-111145737221412 To make a purchase, please visit Joe’s Etsy page at www.etsy.com/people/6ulzf857?ref=hdr_ user_menu-profile
The Columbia Valley Pioneer • 13 But then fire suppression became the norm, and now on the Rockies side of the valley, it’s really thick with fir trees. The sheep don’t like that, they need somewhere open,” he said. “Golf courses are open. If you ever see the sheep on the golf course, you’ll notice they are always right in the middle, where they can see any threats coming. They like to be able to escape. That’s their strategy, to run off somewhere steep and rocky when they feel threatened. And the Springs course has those cliffs between the course and the railway. The sheep love that: they have an open area, with a great escape route into those cliffs.” Throughout the conversation with the Pioneer, Kebe repeatedly emphasized the need for both visitors and locals to drive with extra care in and around the village during the rut, and in fact, throughout the whole winter. “Please everyone spread the word to others to slow
Submitted by Tourism Radium down in areas of higher concentrations of our very valuable wildlife species and in the Radium area, where we know the bighorn sheep are present and can be in front of your vehicle in an instant,” said Kebe. “It’s disheartening to be picking them up out of the ditch. We’re at two, and we’re barely at the middle of November.”
14 • The Columbia Valley Pioneer
November 28, 2020
HERE TO SERVE YOU BUSINESS OF THE WEEK
SERVICES
SERVICES
BUSINESS OF THE WEEK
SERVICE EXCELLENCE IN THE COLUMBIA VALLEY
SINCE 1991 ICBC Glass Repair Out of Province Vehicle Inspections Auto Body Repairs • Painting • Quality Parts
Make Purple Cow Gift Shop your first stop for the holidays! Perhaps a gift for family or friend… new home, or to welcome a new baby… or to treat yourself to a new game and some cozy PJ’s for the winter season. Come in for fun around every corner! Visit www.purplecowgifts.ca Shop at Purple Cow before December 13th and win $5,000 in cash and prizes. Find out more: visit www.valleystrong.ca
We give all students 15% off with valid student ID
P H A R M A C Y ( 2 0 1 9 ) LT D . Come in and browse our giftware
Irena Shepard, B.Sc. (Pharm.)., Émilie Lamoureux, Pharm D., Laura Kipp, Pharm D. Your Compounding Pharmacy
Open Monday – Saturday, 9 a.m. - 6 p.m. and Sunday, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
1301 - 7th Avenue, Invermere
250-342-6612
INSURANCE
Tire Sales and Installation
Sales ~ Service ~ Installation
valleysolutions@shaw.ca
House Checking and more! Bob: (250) 341-5014
PROVIDING SOLUTIONS FOR THE VACATION HOME OWNER SINCE 2006
PHARMACIES
LAMBERT-KIPP
All Makes and Models
141 Industrial Rd. 2 • 250-342-9424 • Open Monday - Saturday, 8:30 am - 5:30 pm
Judy: (250) 341-1903
JOIN YOUR CHAMBER AND REAP THE REWARDS! P. 250-342-2844 E. membership@cvchamber.com
North American Warranty
UNIVERSAL DOORS & EXTERIORS Arnold Scheffer 250-342-6700
unidoorext@live.ca • unidoorext.ca
Industrial ~ Commercial ~ Residential
WINDOW COVERINGS SHOWROOM • • • •
Doors Windows Flooring Painting/Interior/ Exterior • Kitchen Renovations • Window Coverings
• Bathroom Renovations • Additions • Decks • Finish Carpentry • Basement Renovations
KITCHEN CABINETS & COUNTER TOPS
915 7th Avenue, Unit B, Invermere • EMAIL: fairmontridge@telus.net • 250-342-4663
• Air Conditioning/Heat Pumps • Fireplaces • Full Heating and Ventilation Systems
Beat the fall rush ~ clean your Chimney this spring! ROCKY MOUNTAIN CHIMNEY SWEEPS LTD. 804 Almberg Road, Golden, BC V0A 1H2 CELL: 250.272.5599 OFFICE: 250.344.7323 todd@rockymountainchimneysweeps.com rockymountainchimneysweeps.com
Call for your FREE consultation and estimate
CLEANING & MAINTENANCE ON ALL WOOD BURNING APPLIANCES • WETT INSPECTIONS
WETT Certified
P.O. Box 130 Invermere, BC V0A 1K0 Office: 250-342-2175 • Fax: 250-342-2669 Cindy.mackay@kootenayinsurance.ca
www.kootenayinsurance.ca Scott Postlethwaite
Residential, Commercial Electric Furnace and Hot Water Tank Repair and Service For All Your Electrical Needs
INSURANCE AGENCIES LTD.
BOX 2228 742 - 13th STREET INVERMERE, BC V0A 1K0 P: 250-342-3031 F: 250-342-6945 info@lambertinsurance.ca
N E W S PA P E R
BOX 459 7553 MAIN STREET RADIUM HOT SPRINGS, BC V0A 1M0 P: 250-347-9350 F: 250-347-6350 TOLL FREE: 1-866-342-3031
For all your advertising needs, call 250-341-6299
Free Estimates
invermereelectric@gmail.com
1710 10th Avenue – Invermere, B.C. V0A 1K0
• Interior/Exterior Painting • Staining • Clear Coat • New Construction • Renovations
HOW WE ROLL Gerard Rehman 4950 Hot Springs Rd. Fairmont Hot Springs, B.C. V0B 1L1
Ph: 250-688-ROLL (7655) LetUsRoll4U@Gmail.com
20 years experience • Satisfaction guaranteed!
(Servicing the Valley since 1999)
NEW SEWER CAMERA
• Septic Tank Pumping • Portable Toilet Rentals
• A well maintained septic system • Complete sewer/drain repairs should be pumped every 2-3 years • Reasonable rates – Seniors’ discount • Avoid costly repairs • Speedy service – 7 days a week
Bruce Dehart 250.347.9803 or 250.342.5357
November 28, 2020
The Columbia Valley Pioneer • 15
HERE TO SERVE YOU CONTRACTING
CONTRACTING
Kekuli Bay Cabinetry
CONTRACTING
DESIGN BUILD UILD
Specializing in all heating, electric, gas and wood.
kekulibaycabinetry.com
• Fireplaces • Commercial and residential • New builds • Renovations.
New Builds, Renovations, Additions, & Kitchens
We also offer roundthe-clock service calls.
A licensed, registered and bonded company
Give us a call! James, 250-688-1267 or Jerry, 250-342-5299 Email: jeffersoncontractingltd@gmail.com
• Authorized dealer • Designer • Installer
Dale Elliott Contracting
25 years experience installing cabinets Custom Woodwork and Finishing Serving the Columbia Valley for over 40 years.
dale@decontracting.ca • 250-341-7098
• Trusses • Engineered Floors • Wall Panels Tel: 250.341.6075 Fax: 250.341.3427 Email: info@duskbuildingsystems.com www.duskbuildingsystems.com
1320 Industrial Road #3 Box 159, Invermere, B.C. V0A 1K0
P U R S U I T
paulaubrecht.houzz.com
Office: 250-342-6500 • Toll Free: 1-888-341-2221
SERVICES
Proudly Serving the Valley for over 50 years
For competitive prices and prompt service, call: 250-342-3268 (plant) 250-342-6767 (office) • Ready Mix Concrete • Commercial concrete sealer • Concrete Pumping retarder for exposed • Over 50 colours available aggregate and in stock • DELIVERED ON TIME • Concrete stamps for rent at a fair price • Full range of coloured release • Full range of sand and agents for stamping gravel products.
Phone: 250-342-5833 • Cell: 250-270-9444
All products are available at 9120, Hwy 93/95 which is five kilometres north of Tim Hortons CARPET CLEANING
CARPET CLEANING Enjoy life, we’ll clean it up!
Your Weekly Source for News and Events
TILE AND GROUT CLEANING
N E W S PA P E R
Office Administrator/ Sales
Established since 1993
Concrete Pump • Sand & Gravel Heavy Equipment Rentals • Crane Service
• Environmentally responsible • Steamed aggregate beds for top quality year-round concrete supply • We stand behind our service, quality and products
1756 Hwy 93/95 Windermere B.C.
Amanda Murray
Best of
2020
SERVICE
• Architectural Design • Interior Design • Building Permits • Construction Management
READY MIX CONCRETE
O F
EXCELLENCE Skandia Concrete • Manufacturers & suppliers of quality concrete & gravel products • Experienced, professional operators and the right equipment to get your job done • Serving the valley for over 30 years
250-342-5698
Best of
2020
DESIGN
CONCRETE
CONCRETE I N
Paul Aubrecht, Dipl. Arch. SAIT
#8, 1008 - 8th Avenue PO Box 868, Invermere, B.C. V0A 1K0 Ph: 250-341-6299 ext: 101 www.columbiavalleypioneer.com amanda@columbiavalleypioneer.com
Business: 250-342-9692
RR#4 2117–13 Ave. Invermere, BC V0A 1K4
Cell: 250-342-1273 Fax: 250-342-9644
ptarmiganrugclean@gmail.com
Call NOW:
250-688-0213
• Carpets dry in 1 hour • Environmentally friendly products • Disinfectant kills COVID-19 • Fresh clean scent – no steam • Area rugs and upholstery • Protector • 100% guarantee • Prompt reliable service Visit www.heavensbest.com for more information
www.columbiavalleypioneer.com Phone: 250-341-6299 • Email: amanda@columbiavalleypioneer.com
N E W S PA P E R
16 • The Columbia Valley Pioneer
November 28, 2020
P ioneer C lassifieds ANNOUNCEMENT
ICAN , your animal rescue center in Invermere is looking for your help this year as their normal fundraising events have had to be cancelled due to COVID-19. Your tax deductible donations can be made through the following: info@icanbc.com Thank you in advance.
ATTENTION ASPIRING MUSICIANS FROM PARSON TO CANAL FLATS Applications are open for the Steamboat Mountain Music Bursary. Musicians of all levels and any age may apply. Funds may be used for: workshops, music camps, lessons, master classes, college, or university music programs. Deadline: Monday, November 30th, 2020. Download application: www.steamboatmtnmusicfest.ca
Alcoholics Anonymous. If alcohol is causing problems or conflict in your life, AA can help. All meetings are at 8 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. Al-Anon. Are you concerned about or affected by someone else’s drinking? If so, please join us on a “ZOOM” meeting every Monday at 7 p.m. For more information or to speak with someone from our fellowship, please call 250-342-8255.
CHEERS & JEERS Great big Cheers to John Bradbury who makes me smile every time I see him. (Oh it’s you again? ... I am always here!
• Phone: 250-341-6299 • Email: info@columbiavalleypioneer.com • Web: www.columbiavalleypioneer.com
LEGAL NOTICE
CHEERS & JEERS
COMMERCIAL SPACE
LOT/ACREAGE FOR SALE
NOTICE TO CREDITORS In the Estate of Joseph Charles Hemmelgarn deceased All claims against the above estate, duly verified by statutory declaration and with particulars and valuation of security held, if any, must be sent to the undersigned before the 15th day of December 2020. B. Kirsch, 1605 15th Ave. Invermere, BC, V0A 1K4
Cheers to the hospital nurses. doctors, ambulance, cooks and cleaners in Invermere, Cranbrook and Kelowna from February to August and of course my wife.
Downtown, 1021 6th Ave . 170 sq ft office with 400 sq ft warehouse 250-341-1408.
ELKHORN COUNTRY ESTATES
CHEERS & JEERS
3 bedrooms, finished basement, garage, yard! Low strata fees!
Cheers to the fencing contractor from Edgewater who helped us after we locked our keys and cell phone in the car by Westside trail on a cold November day. That was very kind of you! We will pay it forward.
Weekly Featured Listing
$374,900 Including GST
MLS: 2455459 #5 200 10th Ave, Invermere (Brokerage ~ Rockies West Realty)
BUYING OR SELLING CALL 250-341-1202
gerrytaft.ca
A huge Cheers to the Oriental Palace. You guys rock! Cheers to all our friends and neighbors in Fairmont for their charitable donations to ICAN, Invermere’s animal rescue center. Especially during these times when fund raising has been halted in normal fundraising events. Cheers to Cranbrook Pest Control, Rich and Memphis for the awesome masks and warmup gear for the Atoms Rockies Team! You rock! A huge Cheers to all of the staff and students at DTSS who reached out to a student in distress last week by leaving hundreds of inspirational notes throughout the school. Your concern for each other moved me to tears and made me feel so especially proud of our youth here in the valley. Good on you!! The fact that so many of you reached out shows that there is still much good in the world. Stay kind, stay strong. Help is there so if you need it, just reach back.
Rockies West Realty Independently owned and operated
LOST AND FOUND FOUND: A pair of boy’s shoes/ trainers was found at Lake Enid two weeks ago, new condition, size 1. Please call 250-342-7519. FOUND: A child’s ice skate, looks like a girls skate found on the highway between Invermere and Radium. Please contact 250-688-8633 to claim. FOUND: A single hearing aid. Call 250-342-2175 ask for Cindy.
ACCOMMODATION WANTED Older, mature, N/S, Non-partying couple seeks pet-friendly 2-bdrm house/townhouse with basement and garage/carport for long-term rental. Can pay up to $1,200/mo including utilities. Please call 250-341-6098 or e-mail greatdaneman@hotmail. com with details.
SUITE FOR RENT Windermere, bright, warm, 2-bdrm upper unit in quiet 4-plex with beautiful views, separate parking and entrance with new deck and many interior upgrades. No pets, $800/mo. + Electricity + D.D. Available Dec. 1st to mature, responsible tenants. References required. Call/Text: 587-224-3132.
CONDO FOR RENT Invermere - Furnished Upper Level two-storey Condo, close to downtown. 2-bdrm, 2 bathrooms. N/S, N/P, No Partiers. References please. Available until June 1st, 2021. $1,250/mo. Utilities and internet included. 403-978-4559.
LOT/ACREAGE FOR SALE
STORAGE NEWHOUSE STORAGE Various sizes available. Now with climatecontrolled units. Call 250-342-3637.
COMMERCIAL SPACE 864 sq. ft. Shop space in the Industrial Park. Electrical included, $700/mo. 250-3423637, newmulti@telus.net.
BUYING OR SELLING? I specialize in rural, recreational, farm and ranch properties.
BARRY BROWN-JOHN “Rocky Mountain Land Man”
Call or text
250-342-5245
b.brownjohn@gmail.com
Selling Phase 3 now. 2.5-acre parcels. No building time commitment. Phone Elkhorn Ranch 250-342-1268. elkhornranches.com ACREAGE FOR SALE 4.7 acres. Has its own graveled access road from Kootenay #3 road already constructed. Drilled well, views, privacy. $219,000 plus GST. Phone Elkhorn Ranch, 250-342-1268.
MISC. FOR SALE New ATV snowplow for sale $450. Call 250-341-1255. Top Quality Hay Round bales. Phone Elkhorn Ranch 250-3421268.
FIREWOOD Seasoned birch firewood for sale. $325 per cord, picked up in Brisco. Call 250-341-1255.
SERVICES LEE’S SMALL ENGINE REPAIR SHOP Specializing in chainsaws, snow blowers, wood splitters and power augers for all your firewood and winter needs. SAW CHAIN NOW AVAILABLE. Industrial #2 Road across from NAPA Hours: Tuesday-Friday 9 a.m. - 5 p.m. Saturday 10 a.m. – 3 p.m. 250-341-2551
SERVICES B.B.’s Home & Lawn Care Services: Renovations, Handyman Repairs, Small moves, Dump runs, House Checks, House Cleaning, Yard Maintenance, Eavestroughs, Tree removal. Book now for snow removal. 250-688-2897. Pike Contracting Excavating and Skid Steer services. Call Jason 250-342-5277. SERVICES FOR SENIORS The Heartfelt Companion offers non-medical help to seniors in their home and respite for caregivers. Companionship, errands, transportation, personal care, meal prep and more. Excellent local references and credentials and a big, kind heart! “Leanne and her associates have made a real difference for myself and my husband who is dealing with dementia. Leanne always seems to figure out what a client needs and enjoys. This also gave me a much needed break. I would highly recommend her service”. www.invermerehomecare.com, Leanne Brooks 250-341-5683. Golf cart fall tune-up and winterize, pickup and delivery available at extra charge. Call Jeff 250-341-8146 leave a message. Kootenay Country Electrical Qualified Electrical Service Licensed, Bonded, Insured Highly skilled electrician Call Dean 250-342-5516.
Pioneer Classifieds
SPOT THE DEALS!
Offering Excellent Service & Fair Pricing! N E W S PA P E R
info@columbiavalleypioneer.com
November 28, 2020
The Columbia Valley Pioneer • 17
SERVICES
HELP WANTED
Radium Husky House
“Double Down” Winter Special
9
$ 99
2 Eggs (Cooked to your liking) 2 pieces of toast + Tax 2 pieces of meat (Bacon or Sausage) & Hashbrowns *Add 2 pieces of meat for $1.99 *Scan your myHusky App for Free rewards.
Served daily until Feb. 28, 2021, 7 am - 3 pm 4918 HWY 93 Radium Hot Springs, BC
NOTICES
LAND ACT: Notice of Intention to Apply for a Disposition of Crown Land Take notice that the Okanagan Aggregates Ltd has applied to the Ministry of Forests, Lands and Natural Resource Operations and Rural Development (MFLNRORD), Kootenay Region, for a Licence of Occupation for a quarry site (sand and gravel) purpose, situated on Provincial Crown land east of Radium Hot Springs, BC, and containing 5.0 hectares more or less. The Lands File for this application is 4406152 (Quarry) and 4406153 (Roadway). For more information; or, to submit written comments concerning this application, please visit the website at http://arfd.gov.bc.ca/ApplicationPosting/index.jsp Search Search by File Number(s)…….for more information. Written comments can also be directed to Authorizations Specialist, MFLNRORD, Kootenay region, 1902 Theatre road, Cranbrook BC V1C 7G1. Comments will be received by MFLNRORD up to: December 20, 2020. MFLNRORD may not be able to consider comments received after this date. 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.
HELP WANTED
Invermere Petro-Can is currently accepting resumes for F/T and P/T employment. Apply in person to 185 Laurier Street, Invermere between 8 a.m. and 5 p.m. Mountain Creek Properties Ltd. requires a full time Strata Management Assistant, to start immediately. Please go to our website for a full description of this position: http://www. mountaincreek.ca/career.htm.
Wanted 2 F/T Restaurant Cooks, Rocky River Grill, 8888 Arrow Road, Invermere, B.C. Permanent, F/T shifts, overtime, weekends, days and evenings, $16/hour for 40 hours per week. Overtime after 40 hours. Minimum several years’ experience and completion of Secondary School. DUTIES: Prepare and cook full course meals, prepare and cook individual dishes and foods, ensure quality of food portions, work with minimal supervision, prepare dishes for customers with food allergies or intolerances. Inspect Kitchens and Food service areas. Please forward resume to Justin Atterbury by fax 250-342-8889 or email justatterbury@hotmail.com. Just a reminder… The classified deadline is 12 noon Monday.
Akisqnuk First Nation EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY
Human Resource Generalist Summary To provide operational Human Resource support to the Senior Administrative Officer (SAO), managers, and employees. This will include recruitment, selection and orientation program administration, compensation, and performance management. Development of policy and procedures, including performance evaluations, compensation policy. Managing compliance with approved Akisqnuk First Nation policies. Manage employee relations and records. This position reports directly to the SAO. Key Duties & Responsibilities • Development and maintenance of Akisqnuk First Nation position descriptions. Lead role in the recruitment process, including advertising, screening, and interview processes. • Conduct reference checks, prepare correspondence and communicate with candidates. • New employee orientation. Introduction of new employees, orientation, and set up of workspace. Liaise with finance, payroll, and IT for all work requirements. • Meet legislated requirements of employee records. • Manage in a confidential manner all employee files, maintain strict confidentiality. • File all necessary paperwork for all employees for payroll benefits. • Develop and maintain compensations and salary administration policy, including wage or salary administration policy. • Maintain and update HR policy and procedures as necessary to conform to federal and provincial laws. • Ensure enforcement of the HR policy in an equal and fair manner. • Liaise with all employees, managers, and benefits carrier for HR related issues; including all benefit programs, long and short disability and return to work. Chair the Occupational Health & Safety (OH&S) committee. • Work with the health and public works departments to develop safety plans as well as deal with safety issues as they arise. • Research and recommend a time tracking and performance management system to council and management. • Set up and mange the system. • Work with WCB and with employees. This is not an exhaustive list of duties. Qualifications: • Post secondary degree or diploma with a focus on Human Resources. • Chartered Professional in Human Resources/Certified Human Resources Professional. Required Experience • 5 years experience in the HR field, with an understanding and experience in recruitment and selection. • Experience with policy development and enforcement and advice interpretation. Strong background in benefits and performance management. • Working knowledge of Federal and B.C. labor standards. To Apply: Please send resume & cover letter to: lshovar@akisqnuk.org no later than 4:00pm December 4, 2020. Mailing Address: 3050 Highway 93/95, Windermere, BC V0B 2L2 Tel: (250) 342-6301 Fax: (250) 342-9693 info@akisqnuk.org • www.akisqnuk.org
Have something to say? Letters to the editor can be e-mailed to info@columbiavalleypioneer.com
Please recycle this newspaper
18 • The Columbia Valley Pioneer
HELP WANTED
We’re looking for hardworking, energetic and reliable people just like you!
GROCERY/PRODUCE CLERKS POSITIONS AVAILABLE Starting up to $16.50/hr, depending on availability. Some restrictions apply.
Apply in person. 471 Arrow Road, Invermere, B.C. Fairmont Vacation Villas Mountainside
(855) 345-6341or mountainsidevillas.com Fairmont Villa Management are now hiring
Housekeepers For their busy winter season. We offer year-round employment, with a wage of $18 per hour for applicants 19 and older and a generous benefits package after 3 months. We are also accepting part-time and student applications. All positions involve working weekends. The successful applicant must be reliable, have their own transportation, have a strong work ethic and the ability to work in a fast-paced team environment. If this sounds like you, we look forward to receiving your application/resume. Contact Lynn Brunelle at 250 345-6341 Fax Att: Lynn 250 345-6299 Or email: HSKPmgr@msvillas.com
November 28, 2020
HELP WANTED
PUBLISHER
The Jasper Fitzhugh has a position available for a Publisher. We are looking for an individual with the following attributes: • A demonstrated ability in sales; • The ability to continuously improve our print and digital products; • The ability to work on Apple products with a variety of software platforms; • A genuine interest in people. The desire to help people to improve their skills and elevate the quality of their work; • The ability to make clear decisions and communicate them effectively; • The ability to adhere to deadlines in a time sensitive environment. The position will have overall general management orientation with profit and loss responsibility. A background in newspaper publishing is desirable but not essential. For example, the position may appeal to individuals with experience in marketing, retail sales management or teaching. We will provide training for the suitable candidate. This is a one year term position to fill in for a maternity leave. If necessary we can extend the term longer than one year, but it may require varying the duties. The position is available immediately with a start date no later than January 11, 2021. Please send a letter indicating your interest, along with a CV to; Fuchsia Dragon, Publisher, The Fitzhugh PO Box 428, Jasper, AB, T0E 1E0 Email: publisher@fitzhugh.ca
Due to COVID-19 restrictions initial interviews may be conducted over Zoom.
HELP WANTED
PRINT & DIGITAL EDITOR The Jasper Fitzhugh is looking for a full-time Print and Digital Editor to manage our news operation. We have a news site - www.fitzhugh.ca - that we update daily, and a weekly community newspaper serving Jasper and the surrounding area. We also publish various speciality products produced on an annual basis. The successful candidate works well in a team setting, but is self-motivated. You must be community minded, have positive energy, and be a good storyteller within Canadian Press style guidelines. You have to be organized, and able to give clear direction to editorial staff or freelancers.
QUALIFICATIONS
• Journalism education: Degree, diploma or certificate; or equivalent work experience. • Ability to organize work and give direction to others in order to meet deadlines. • Ability to work collaboratively with the other members of the management team. • Experience in Adobe Creative Suite and posting to social media.
The company offers competitive benefit and pension plans. The position is based in our office at 612 Connaught Drive, Jasper. The position is available immediately and must start no later than January 11, 2021. Initially the position is for a one year term to fill a maternity leave, but the term can be extended for the right candidate.
Interested candidates should forward their resume to: publisher@fitzhugh.ca
EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITIES WATER/WASTEWATER OPERATOR 2 (TEMPORARY) – WINDERMERE, BC
WATER/WASTEWATER OPERATOR (2 or 3) – WINDERMERE, BC
The Regional District of East Kootenay is looking for an experienced Water/Wastewater Operator 2 located out of our Columbia Valley Office in Windermere, BC. Supervised by the Senior Operator, the Water/Wastewater Operator is primarily responsible for operating and maintaining 6 water and 2 wastewater systems. This is a temporary one year term to cover a maternity leave.
The Regional District of East Kootenay is looking for an experienced Water/Wastewater Operator (2 or 3) located out of our Columbia Valley Office in Windermere, BC. Supervised by the Senior Operator, the Water/Wastewater Operator is primarily responsible for operating and maintaining 6 water and 2 wastewater systems.
ESSENTIAL QUALIFICATIONS: • Progressive experience (three to five years) maintaining water and wastewater utilities, preferably in a local government setting • Class II Water Treatment and Water Distribution Operator Certificates • Class II Wastewater Collection and Wastewater Treatment Operator Certificates • Possession of a Chlorine Handling Certificate • Valid British Columbia Driver’s Licence
ESSENTIAL QUALIFICATIONS: • Progressive experience (three to five years) maintaining water and wastewater utilities, preferably in a local government setting • Class II or III Water Treatment and Water Distribution Operator Certificates • Class II Wastewater Collection and Wastewater Treatment Operator Certificates • Possession of a Chlorine Handling Certificate • Valid British Columbia Driver’s Licence
KEY SKILLS & ABILITIES: • Thorough knowledge of the operation and maintenance of water and sewer systems and applicable government regulations. • Excellent communication and organizational skills. • Working knowledge of Microsoft Office and SCADA monitoring systems. • Ability to establish and maintain professional and effective working relationships with contractors, developers, applicable regulating agencies, staff, and the general public.
KEY SKILLS & ABILITIES: • Thorough knowledge of the operation and maintenance of water and sewer systems and applicable government regulations. • Excellent communication and organizational skills. • Working knowledge of Microsoft Office and SCADA monitoring systems. • Ability to establish and maintain professional and effective working relationships with contractors, developers, applicable regulating agencies, staff, and the general public.
This is a temporary, full-time (35 hours per week) Union position with a starting salary hourly rate of $32.10- 33.70/hour (wage is currently under review through a Joint Job Evaluation process) depending on qualifications.
This is a permanent, full-time (35 hours per week) Union position with a starting salary hourly rate of $32.10 - $37.04/hour (wage is currently under review through a Joint Job Evaluation process) depending on qualifications.
If you possess the necessary qualifications and experience, we invite you to submit a resume and cover letter, with references, no later than Friday, November 27, at 4:30PM to: Becky Hoglund, Human Resources Email: hr@rdek.bc.ca (MS Word format or PDF) Please quote: Engineering – 21
If you possess the necessary qualifications and experience, we invite you to submit a resume and cover letter, with references, no later than Friday, November 27, at 4:30PM to: Becky Hoglund, Human Resources Information on our organization and copy of complete job Email: hr@rdek.bc.ca (MS Word format or PDF) description are available at www.rdek.bc.ca/careers. Please quote: Engineering – 22 We thank all candidates for their interest, however, only those selected for interviews will be contacted.
19 – 24 Avenue South, Cranbrook BC V1C 3H8 | 250-489-2791 | 1-888-478-7335 | Fax: 250-489-3498 | info@rdek.bc.ca | www.rdek.bc.ca
Just a reminder… The deadline for display advertising is 12 noon Friday. The deadline for classified word ads is 12 noon Monday.
November 28, 2020
The Columbia Valley Pioneer • 19
Fifth annual ‘Cram the Cruiser’ toy drive By Camille Aubin camille@columbiavalleypioneer. com This Saturday, November 28th, Canadian Tire is partnering with Columbia Valley RCMP for the ‘Cram the Cruiser’ event. From 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., drop off your unwrapped and unused toys at Invermere Canadian Tire. Each donated toy will be distributed to families in need, supported by the Christmas Bureau of the Columbia Valley. The toy will be held for
two weeks to follow protocols associated with the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. Jaimie and Jeff Cote, owners of the local Canadian Tire, wanted to organize a fun event to give back to the community five years ago. “It will be good to bring Christmas to everybody. And I would like to thank the Valley for the tons of support that we received during the last five years. Hopefully, it’s going to be another good year,” said Jaimie. For more information, contact 250-342-4433.
Cleanse Wise - a new compagny in the Valley Cleanliness has been at the top of many Columbia Valley residents’ minds ever since the COVID-19 pandemic upended daily life in mid-March. The pandemic has been rough on many local businesses, has been a boom to a few, and has even resulted in one brand-new one, launching here in the valley. Cleanse Wise, a Radium Hot Springs-based company, started off this summer selling electrostatic sprayers and has recently expanded into selling disinfectants, cleaning chemicals, personal protective equipment, and janitorial cleaning supplies. “It was an idea when COVID-19 hit,” Cleanse Wise co-owner Erin Palashniuk told the Pioneer. She and another fellow Cleanse Wise co-owner, Tyler McCauley, both operate accommodation business (Palashniuk owns the Gateway motel, McCauley the Inn on Canyon) and Dennis Allen, (Cleanse Wise’s third co-owner), had been working with the group, and various industries, in providing operating procedures and action plans for the new requirements for COVID-19 workplace and public safety, and trying to figure out more effective ways to disinfect the rooms in their inns during the pandemic, when they happened upon electrostatic sprayers and approved disinfection and sanitizing solutions.
Electrostatic spray systems come available as handheld guns (which look much like handheld water pistols) or larger volume backpack units. The units have reservoirs that are filled with disinfectant liquid. The units are battery operated and when triggered, emit an electrically charged mist that is discharged and propelled to cover areas of potential contamination. The positively charged particles in the spray will cling to, coat, and wrap-around any surface they are ‘shot’ at, creating a uniform coating of sanitizer and disinfectant on sprayed objects. The systems are particularly effective for cleaning hard-to-reach areas that manual disinfection action can easily miss. “When they spray, it makes a mist. It doesn’t spread the virus around, as some other propellant aerosol cleaning solutions might,” said Palashniuk. “There’s much better coverage and it uses much less chemicals, so your cost of cleaning actually is reduced.” This electrical particle attachment of disinfection solutions, on all contacted areas, assures a complete (99.9 per cent) kill of viruses, bacteria, and other potentially harmful contaminants. Electrostatic sprayers can be used not only in residential homes and hotels, but also in classrooms, public washrooms, cafeterias, commercial kitchens, equipment rooms, offices, waiting rooms, pools, fitness centres, spas and saunas, banquet halls, medical and dental facilities, care facilities, daycares, transport vehicles, workplace meeting areas, lobbies, and elevators.
Initially, Cleanse Wise was offering electrostatic spraying services to other Columbia Valley businesses. Uptake on that was a bit slow, but Palashniuk, McCauley and Allen found there was demand from many local businesses and support service groups to purchase the devices, and so switched to supplying them. A few months later, they began offering janitorial and custodial supplies. Cleanse Wise is affiliated with major suppliers and national distributors, along with a warehouse distribution network serving the Rocky Mountain area, the Kootenay region and almost all of Western British Columbia. “The response has been quite positive so far,” said Palashniuk, adding “the cleaning chemicals Cleanse Wise sells are hospital-grade but are nontoxic and as environmentally friendly as possible. There is a newfound normal for disinfection, sanitizing and cleaning in our world today, and the Cleanse Wise logo of ‘We care for Your Space’, is truly about our customers and the value they bring to this world we now have to guard to live in.” The personal protective equipment Cleanse Wise offers includes gloves, masks, goggles, gowns and more. The cleaning supplies include paper towels, trigger sprayers and bottles, general purpose cleaners, disinfecting wipes, cleaning sponges and more. To find out more, visit the Cleanse Wise Columbia Valley Facebook page at www. facebook.com/CleanseWiseColumbiaValley or call 250341-5873.
HELP WANTED
HELP WANTED
HELP WANTED
By Steve Hubrecht steve@columbiavalleypioneer.com
Would you like to become part of the Blooming team? We are looking for a team member with a positive and energetic attitude, excellent customer service skills and a passion or interest for cannabis. To be a good fit for this position, you must be reliable, work well in a fast-paced and a team environment and be able to take initiative. As we do strive to provide the best service, we do prefer a minimum of 3 years customer service experience. The ideal candidate must be willing to learn about cannabis (training provided) and work weekends. We offer competitive wages and benefits. Must be able to obtain a Worker Verification to work in the cannabis industry (information will be provided during the hiring process). If you are interested to become part of our team, please send your resume to: info@bloomingworldcannabis.com or apply in person 103 - 905 7th Avenue, lnvermere
0911611 BC Ltd. O/A Tim Hortons 496 Highway 93/95, Invermere BC, V0A 1K2 Tim Hortons Invermere is currently looking for
Licensed Automotive Technician Looking for a licensed automotive technician to join our team. Wage based on experience and previous workplace references. Please provide resume and references. Contact Mike at Walker’s Repair Centre. Ph: 250-342-9424 • Email: info@walkersrepair.ca
FOOD SERVICE SUPERVISORS Permanent, full-time, part-time, shift, weekend, day, night, evening. $15.60 per hour + benefits • Start Date: ASAP # of Vacancies: 6 • Experience: 1 year to less than 2 years Education: No degree, certificate or diploma required. Please apply via email at timhortons.invermere@gmail.com or in person at 496 Highway 93/95 Invermere, BC
Just a reminder… The deadline for display advertising is 12 noon Monday.
20 • The Columbia Valley Pioneer
FAITH
Do you have hope?
LAKE WINDERMERE ALLIANCE CHURCH
By Josh McCallum Lake Windermere Alliance Church
Online Sundays at 10:30 a.m. Visit https://lwac.online.church 326 10th Avenue, Invermere 250-342-9535 • www.lwac.ca
WINDERMERE VALLEY SHARED MINISTRY ANGLICAN-UNITED Please email office@wvsm.ca to request a link to our online service which starts at 10:30 a.m. Sundays. Recorded services can be accessed by typing WVSM Invermere Anglican United Church. 250-342-6644 • www.wvsm.ca
VALLEY CHRISTIAN ASSEMBLY Sunday 10 a.m. Worship service Pastor Murray Wittke 4814 Highway Drive, Windermere 250-342-9511 • www.valleychristianonline.com
ROMAN CATHOLIC CHURCH
St. Anthony’s, Canal Flats., Canadian Martyrs’ – Invermere, St. Joseph’s – Radium. Father Jojo Augustine • 712 -12th Ave., Invermere 250-342-6167
ST. PETER’S LUTHERAN CHURCH Sunday 1:30 p.m. Worship Service at Valley Christian Assembly 4814 Highway Drive, Windermere www.eklutheran.ca mtzionlc@hotmail.com
RADIUM CHRISTIAN FELLOWSHIP Sunday 10 a.m. Worship service Pastor Wayne and Linda Frater • 250-342-6633 No. 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 Rick Daniels • Columbia Valley Branch 5014 Fairway, Fairmont Hot Springs 250-421-3756
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Phone: (250) 341-6299 info@columbiavalleypioneer.com N E W S PA P E R
November 28, 2020
www.columbiavalleypioneer.com
Thanks to 2020, we are no strangers to uncertainty. Questions are swirling about getting back to normal, the economy, and the political landscape. Uncertainty is troubling because there is no option for dealing with it; it simply lingers. It wears you down, it divides your focus, and it feeds anxiety. So, what do we do? How do we respond when things are uncertain and out of our control? The answer might be unexpected. The solution to uncertainty is hope. Now, hope is a word that is often used incorrectly. “I hope I win the lottery,” “I hope it doesn’t rain tomorrow.”
Expressing a desire for what we’d like is not hope; it’s a wish. Hope is something steadfast. The Bible describes hope as an anchor. In the waves of uncertainty, through the winds of the storms of life, when we’re at risk of drifting off course, hope anchors us. Hope is our stabilizing connection to something concrete, which makes it essential for battling uncertainty. For those of us who trust in Jesus, our hope is in the reality of a great story—the story of God through history. It is a story of beauty offered and beauty rejected; of a God who pursues, and a people who run. It is a story of broken relationship and ultimate sacrifice, of rescue, redemption, and restoration. We have hope because God, who created us, has shown mercy in our treason, and sent his Son to die to buy us back from rebellion and the punishment it earned. We have the hope of new life—freedom from our wayward hearts with the promise of new ones. We have hope because God is a Father who acted on his love and made way for us to join his family. So, I ask you, do you have hope?
Waterbird is the word Submitted by Watershed Wanderings Since 2018, Lake Windermere Ambassadors, in collaboration with Goldeneye Ecological Services, has been conducting waterbird surveys on Lake Windermere. As an important wildlife corridor, the Columbia River watershed provides critical habitat to migratory species and year-round residents of the feathered variety. Waterbirds can be specifically defined as bird species that are ecologically dependent on wetlands. The presence and abundance of waterbird species on the lake can reflect the overall health and quality of the habitat and provides insight into the ecological connectedness of the watershed. Using a transect technique, a team of two heads, onto the lake and boats in a zig-zag pattern down the length of the waterbody, starting at the north end and travelling south. Each individual or group of birds that can be seen is identified, counted, and recorded in eBird; an online database of bird observations, providing real-time information about abundance and distribution to professionals, hobbyists, and citizen scientists alike. In 2020, Fall Waterbird Surveys took place on Oct. 8, and we saw fifteen different waterbird species, including three at-risk species; Surf Scoter, Horned Grebe and Western Grebe. We can compare these numbers to 2019, when twenty-three other waterbird species were observed, including five speciesat-risk and in 2018, when eighteen species were observed from the boat, including four at-risk. 2020 saw the largest single group of birds since surveys began in October 2018, which consisted of over 1500 American coots in one large, black floating raft on the lake, seemingly moving in unison and providing safety in numbers. The Ambassadors received quite a few public inquiries about this sight throughout the month of October. American coots are known to gather in the later months of the year in these large numbers with their own species and in mixed flocks of other waterbirds. The
coots are likely feeding on a variety of aquatic plants, including algae, duckweed and water milfoil. They are also likely to take advantage of insects and other invertebrates, including snails and crustaceans. Monitoring waterbirds not only sheds light into the health and abundance of birds themselves but also their prey, and the surrounding wetlands. According to Nature Canada, some of the largest threats to waterbird species include the destruction and development of breeding habitat, droughts, nest predators and pollution events such as oil spills. The importance of consistent monitoring is more important than ever and provides us with a better understanding of bird populations and the importance of Lake Windermere as a staging area for these species. Visitors, residents, and lake-users Submitted photo can contribute to this critical work and take part in citizen science by observing bird species seen around Lake Windermere and contribute their findings to eBird, one of the largest biological databases in Canada today. eBird has opened up a new world of avian knowledge for those who want to learn and share information about birds they are seeing in their environment. Bird-watching is said to be one of the most popular recreational activities in the world, and for those who spend time in the beautiful Columbia Valley, the opportunities to pursue this pastime are endless. If you’re interested in learning more about the waterbirds seen on Lake Windermere, the Ambassadors are available year-round to provide further information. The Lake Windermere Ambassadors would like to thank BC Gaming Grants, Canada Summer Jobs, Columbia Basin Trust, Columbia Valley Local Conservation Fund, District of Invermere, Lush Charity Pot, Fisheries and Oceans Canada, Real Estate Foundation, and the Regional District of East Kootenay for supporting our 2020 Programming. Georgia Peck, Program Coordinator for the Lake Windermere Ambassadors. Contact her at info@lakeambassadors.ca or call the office at (250) 341-6898.