Columbia Valley Pioneer, March 4, 2021 by Columbia Valley Pioneer

March, 4, 2021 Vol. 18/Issue 9

The Columbia Valley Pioneer • 1

Your Weekly Source for News and Events

March 4, 2021

The Columbia Valley

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2 • The Columbia Valley Pioneer

March, 4, 2021 Highlights of the @LiveColumbiaValley Instagram account, brought to you by the Columbia Valley Community Economic Development Office, a service of the RDEK.

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It was a huge week for community project funding announcements in the Columbia Valley. Columbia Valley Airport Society was awarded $242,538 funding through the Community Economic Resilience stream funding. The Fairmont (CYCZ) Airport Runway Refurbishment project will refurbish the runway constructed in 1986.

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(Top) The District of Invermere was awarded $983,000 for the Athalmer Destination Trails project, and @CVGreenways was awarded $976,455 for the Invermere to Radium trail project - Eagle Ranch Segment. (Right) J2 Ranch is just one of the new shops located in Ponderosa Place in Canal Flats. The ranch specializes in Kootenay Waygu, Angus and Bison raised on their farm in Canal Flats.

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Panorama Foundation Society was awarded $863,730for an investment in snowmaking and safety infrastructure at the Panorama National Alpine Training Centrefrom the Government of BC’s CERIP Destination Development Stream. Submitted by Ryan Watmough

March, 4, 2021

The Columbia Valley Pioneer • 3

VALLEY NEWS

Funding boost for Columbia Valley trails By Steve Hubrecht steve@columbiavalleypioneer.com Trail networks in the Columbia Valley got a financial boost last week, with two major grants being awarded to two separate trail projects either in or near Invermere. The District of Invermere will receive $983,000 for its Athalmer Destination Trails, and the Columbia Valley Greenways Trail Alliance will receive $976,455 for a segment of the Invermere to Radium legacy trail project that will run from Invermere up to the crossroads. The grants, collectively totalling almost $2 million, come from the rural economic recovery stream of the provincial government’s Community Economy Recovery Infrastructure Program, which was initiated to help B.C. communities recover from the economic impacts of the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. Invermere mayor Al Miller outlined at the Tuesday, Feb. 23 council meeting that the $983,000 is meant “to help with the trails and boardwalks, and to connect existing trails through our new lands (the Lake Windermere Resort lands recently purchased by Invermere)” and then added that in conjunction with the funding for Greenways “this is just fantastic for our area. What a great way to give a little push start to our Joint Transport Network... all in all, great news.” In a follow-up conversation with the Pioneer, Miller

explained that how the money will be spent and what the resulting trail network will look like has yet to be decided. “We’re going to have some discussions to determine that, figure out what we can do, and then begin planning,” Miller told the Pioneer. “But it’s going to be a real boon to the community and the surrounding area. It’s really going to add to our attraction, and the pathways that will be built out of this are going to be great for locals to use and for visitors to use too.” The $976,455 for Greenways will be used for a shovel-ready segment of the organization’s planned Radium to Invermere legacy trail, which, as previously reported in the Pioneer, will eventually connect to the Old Coach Trail. This northern trail will join with the 25 kilometre Markin-MacPhail Westside Legacy Trail between Invermere and Fairmont Hot Springs as part of the larger Legacy Trial network, which once completed will connect three of the Columbia Valley’s biggest communities (Radium, Invermere and Fairmont) and its two largest commercial hot springs. Greenways project manager Lianne Lang explained to the Pioneer that Greenways applied for the grant funding in conjunction with Invermere, the Shuswap Indian Band, and Eagle Ranch Resort (a significant part of the Invermere-crossroads trail segment will run through Eagle Ranch Resort). Lang added that with the final 1.4 ki-

lometre re-route of the Markin-MacPhail Westside Legacy Trail (the short bit that is currently right on Westside Road) set to be completed this year, Greenways has been turning its attention to the northern part of the Legacy Trail Network and is keen to begin work on it. “Eagle Ranch is pleased to partner with Greenways, the Shuswap Indian Band, the District of Invermere and our other partners as we work together to build this trail that will play such an important role in economic recovery and growth for the community and region. Outdoor pathway activities are perfect for the times we are living through.” said Eagle Ranch Golf Resort president Guy Turcotte in a press release. “We are grateful to the province for investing in this project. It is a fantastic way to continue to build momentum towards an integrated trail system, create jobs, and support economic recovery,” added Greenways chair Lyle Wilson, in the same press release. In the press release, Lang outlined that the Eagle Ranch segment being ‘shovel-ready’ means that consultations and studies are expected to be done in 2021 and trail building is expected to start in the 2022 construction season. “We are excited to begin this next step and look forward to sharing details for the overall project as they develop, including fundraising plans,” said Lang.

Local man falls through ice on Whiteswan Lake By Camille Aubin camille@columbiavalleypioneer.com Fishing enthusiasts practicing their sport on the ever-popular Whiteswan Lake will need to be extra careful while travelling on foot, as several huge holes in the ice have been discovered there, following an unfortunate accident that could have cost the life of a Canal Flats man. André Champagne, a resident of Canal Flats since 1974, regularly goes ice fishing on Whiteswan Lake on his own. He is 78 years old, retired and still enjoys what the great outdoors has to offer. On Tuesday, Feb. 23 in the afternoon, Champagne was alone on the lake, as he often is. That day, fishing was not at its best, according to Champagne. He drilled his fishing hole, put his line in the water and then waited a long time. Patience is essential when practicing fishing. But still, nothing happened. Champagne packed his gear up to go a little fur-

ther out on the lake. Everyone was gone at that point of the day, but Champagne still hadn’t reached his goal of catching a fish. So he walked closer to a spot where some other fishermen had been angling from an ice shelter earlier in the day. He was scanning the ground, searching for the fishing hole that the previous group had made, but Champagne didn’t see anything other the snow in all directions. Then, all of a sudden, Champagne found himself in the icy water of Whiteswan Lake. It took a lot of effort and energy before he could find a way to get out of the water. “I broke my fingernails scraping the ice,” explained Champagne. “I didn’t think I would get out of it. I kept telling myself it’s over, I am done, I’m gonna die in this hole.” After five minutes in the freezing cold water, he finally found a piece of ice that could hold his weight and then pull himself out of that giant hole. As fast as he could, Champagne took all of his fishing gear and ran to his truck not too far from where he fell in the water, turned on the engine, and heated the car full blast to warm himself up. “If it

weren’t for that piece of ice, I probably wouldn’t be here telling you the story today.” As luck has it Champagne is an active man. “I’m still fit for my age. If it had been another person or even a child, he probably wouldn’t have made it out of the water,” said Champagne, adding he stays in shape by still bucking his own wood, by going for daily walks, as well as fishing at least three times a week. The next day, Champagne realized how lucky he was to be alive. He returned to the scene to see if there were any other unmarked holes there. He found three holes at the accident’s location and further on, at kilometre 27 of the road that runs alongside the lake, he found five other holes. Apart from the less-than-pleasant memories of the terrifying ordeal, Champagne’s other ‘souvenirs’ of his frigid dip include some sore ribs and shoulders, injuries he sustained during his frantic efforts to get out of the water along with scratches up and down his body. Continued on page 16...

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4 • The Columbia Valley Pioneer

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NOTICE TO REMOVE PRIVATE LAND FROM WOODLOT 0481 Please be advised the William Prytula is proposing to remove 50 hectares of private land from Woodlot Licence W0481 located in the vicinity of Harrogate, BC, Parcel Identifier 007-180-781 described as THAT PART OF THE NORTHWEST QUARTER OF SECTION 28 LYING NORTH AND EAST OF THE RIGHT OF WAY OF THE KOOTENAY CENTRAL RAILWAY AS SHOWN ON PLAN 1155 TOWNSHIP 23 RANGE 18 WEST OF THE 5TH MERIDIAN KOOTENAY DISTRICT EXCEPT (1) PARCEL A (REFERENCE PLAN 74066I) AND (2) PART INCLUDED IN PLAN 6516 AND (3) EPP74485. Inquiries/comments to this proposal must be submitted to William (Bill) Prytula, 4419 13 St NE, Salmon Arm, BC V1E 1C9 by April 4, 2021. Only written inquiries received by the above date will be responded to. Information about this proposal can be obtained by contacting William (Bill) Prytula, 250-344-8183, wprytula@gmail.com.

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March, 4, 2021

This past week Feb. 22 through Feb. 28 the Columbia Valley RCMP responded to 55 calls for service. The following is a summary of some of the files our officers responded to. •On Monday, Feb. 22 at 9:15 a.m., emergency crews responded to a two-vehicle collision at the intersection of Highway 93/95 and Windermere Road in Windermere. The driver of a northbound Chevrolet pickup was unable to avoid a collision with a Volvo XC60, which attempted to make a left turn onto the highway. No injuries were reported. The driver of the Volvo was issued a violation ticket for failing to yield on a left turn. •On Monday, Feb. 22, at about 7:30 p.m. the owner of a Ford pickup reported finding two individuals inside his truck at a business on Arrow Road in Invermere. After the suspects fled, the owner noticed the ignition was damaged. One suspect was described as a 40-50 year-old Indigenous female, and the second suspect was described as a 40-50 year-old Indigenous male, approximately 5’9” with a stalky build and wearing a hoodie and a toque. •On Tuesday, Feb. 23, a black 2008 Ford pickup was reported stolen from a property on Lakeview Drive in Invermere. On Thursday, Feb. 25, the stolen truck was recovered in the Chilliwack area. Residents are reminded to ensure their vehicles are locked and all valuables and

keys are removed from the vehicle. •On Friday, Feb. 26, at about 10:30 a.m., emergency crews responded to a single-vehicle motor vehicle incident on 4th Street in Invermere. The driver of a BMW 325 drove through a fence and struck a parked truck. The driver and lone occupant of the vehicle was transported to the hospital to be assessed. The investigation is ongoing to determine if a medical episode precipitated the collision. •On Saturday, Feb. 27, Columbia Valley RCMP received a report of a large group of people staying in a rental house in Panorama. An officer attended and spoke to the renter, who indicated he and fourteen relatives were staying in the rental house. The officer explained that because the occupants were from different households, they were violating the Provincial Health Order. The renter received a violation ticket for attending a non-compliant event under the Emergency Programs Act. •On Sunday, Feb. 28, at about 9 p.m., an officer conducted a traffic stop with a Dodge pickup on Highway 93/95 in Windermere. While speaking to the driver, the officer formed suspicion the driver had alcohol in her body and read a breath demand. The driver complied with the breath demand and blew a “fail”. The driver was detained for impaired operation and transported to the Detachment where she provided breath samples which were over the legal limit. The driver was released on an Appearance Notice to attend court at a later date in relation to impaired driving. The driver also received a 90day Administrative Driving Prohibition.

Weekly Whiteway Report Wow! March already! Where did the winter go? This warm spell is once again melting the Whiteway, and we are once again into the final unpredictable days of the Lake Windermere Whiteway. All skiing on Lake Windermere is long gone, but you will find decent skating conditions early in the morning when it is still cool. By the afternoon, you will likely find a puddle on top of the Whiteway, causing poor conditions. Please use caution when you are accessing the ice

at this time of year. If you haven’t got all your skiing in for the season, you will still find snow at Lake Lillian and on the Junior Johnson trails! We will continue to maintain the trails while the weather holds out. Get out there while you still can! For all the most up-to-date trail conditions please check the Toby Creek Nordic Ski Club Facebook page! Hope to see you out there in the chilly weather this week!

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March, 4, 2021

The Columbia Valley Pioneer • 5

Campground proposal outside Wilmer By Steve Hubrecht steve@columbiavalleypioneer.com

Councillor Gerry Taft noted that Invermere has been criticized in the past for not having a sanidump facility at which RV and camper users can dispose of waste. “The biggest things that comes to my mind with this kind of proposal is that with an influx of campers and people bringing RVs, how important having some kind of proper year-round sani-dump facility somewhere in the region is going to be,” said Taft, adding there are some such facilities in campgrounds elsewhere in the valley, but to his knowledge, all of them are seasonal rather than year-round. “The sani-dump is the topic Screenshot of location map of proposed campground near Wilmer we should be highlighting. That poand Natural Resource Operations) have no objections, tentially this development, if they go ahead with this many sites, should be contributing some then she is okay with the plan. Miller noted those agencies would be consulted with money toward the overall cost of some sort of sani-dump referral letters by the RDEK and would be able to raise facility,” emphasized Taft. Invermere mayor Al Miller concurred, noting that any concerns they have. Taft mentioned that it’s worth pointing out to the it would be great if Invermere could create some kind of public that Invermere does not get the final say on the sani-dumping facility but “our options are limited.” Kayja Becker said attention should be payed to the campground proposal, the RDEK does, and Invermere extra traffic the campground could bring, and to any po- is merely being asked to provide comments as part of the tential environmental impacts because the campground referral process. “We’re not the decision makers on this,” “looks quite close to the wetlands” but tempered these he said. Invermere chief administrative officer Andrew Young comments by adding that if the relevant ministries (such told council he would bundle their comments on the as the provincial Ministry of Environment and Climate Change and the provincial Ministry of Forests, Lands campground into a letter and send it to the RDEK.

A new proposal aims to create a 165-site campground just outside Wilmer. The Regional District of East Kootenay (RDEK) has been seeking comments from nearby municipalities, provincial agencies and local residents on the proposal, which would be a mix of RV sites, yurts, prospector tents (or similar structures) and cottages. As outlined in a referral letter sent by the RDEK to the district of Invermere, exactly how many sites will be devoted to each type of use is yet to be determined, and market demand will play a role, but as of right now, the owners are considering roughly 110 RV sites and about 55 yurt/tent/cottage sites. The owners have committed that no more than 20 per cent of the total campsites will be cottages. The campsites would be “arranged in clusters on topographical benches to maximize views overlooking the wetlands and minimize visibility from the main road,” reads the letter. All the sites are set back at least 50 metres from the wetlands (and are at least 15 metres above them in elevation). The property is not within the boundaries of the Columbia River Wildlife Management Area, and the owners have committed that there will be absolutely no access to the wetlands from the campground. They plan to build viewing platforms so that campground visitors can enjoy looking over the wetlands from a distance. There would be two entrances to the campground off of Westside Road, a main one and a secondary one. Each cluster of campsites would have centralized parking. Although most of the campsites will be for nightly occupancy, some limited seasonal rental may be considered for part of the campground. “If this happens, construction of add-on decks, sheds, roof structures or similar, will not be permitted. Park models will also not be permitted,” read the RDEK letter. ATVs, golf carts and motorcycles will be prohibited at the campground as will wood campfires. “Servicing will be via well water to common facilities. Water will not be provided to every campsite, however each yurt Screenshot of aerial photo showing location of proposed campground near Wilmer and cottage will have private bathroom facilities and the cottages will also have a kitchenette,” read the letter. “Sewer service will be provided for all common areas, tents, yurts and cottages. The RV sites will not be serviced.” As part of their application, the owners included market analysis showing that demand for camping is expected to grow over the coming years. Invermere council discussed the proposal, spurred by the referral letter sent to the district by the RDEK, during its Tuesday, Feb. 23 meeting. Screenshot of models for potential accommodation at the campground

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6 • The Columbia Valley Pioneer

March, 4, 2021

PERSPECTIVE

Free contraception

Historical Lens

By Camille Aubin camille@columbiavalleypioneer.com International Women’s Day was created to celebrate the involvement and achievements of women in our society. It is also a time to reflect on the gender inequality that persists today here in Canada. This year’s campaign theme is about #ChooseToChallenge. “A challenged world is an alert world and from challenge comes change. So let’s all choose to challenge” reads the message on internationalwomensday.com. Perhaps we can challenge our federal and provincial governments to do better for women by providing free contraception in Canada, as well as access to feminine hygiene products such as tampons and pads at no cost, and while we’re at it, maybe we could finally put an end to the pink tax! The pink tax, for those unfamiliar with the term, is the term used to describe the price gap that often sees products marketed as “women’s” come with higher prices, even if they are virtually identical, save for details such as colour, to those marketed “men’s” products. Multiple studies have shown that women’s products cost at least 30 cents more than the same products for men, with the only difference being the marketing and the colour. There’s no reasonable justification for women to pay more for the exact same thing. Having control of your fertility should in no way be limited by the cost of contraceptive products. When women have the power to choose first and foremost whether or not to get pregnant at all, and if so, when to get pregnant, and how many children to have. It allows them to decide, for example, whether they want to pursue higher education or to invest more time into their careers. The same goes for feminine hygiene products. Providing free and better access to them gives women a better chance to attend school and work without worry. This is another effective way to ensure that women are not at a disadvantage for simply being a woman. It is surprising that no policies have yet been created favouring free contraception, considering there is a solid economic case to support such an initiative. The costs associated with unintended pregnancies, such as abortion and child care subsidies, are much higher than the costs associated with universal prescription contraception. AccessBC, which advocates for free access to contraception in B.C, has presented policy recommendations that could save the country more than $95 million annually. “In Canada, unintended pregnancies cost Canadian health systems millions of dollars each year. Studies have shown that providing universal contraception coverage could see that entire amount saved in as little as six to twelve months,” explained AccessBC in a recent press release. Providing access at no cost for products that are a necessity, not a luxury will have powerful impacts on income, health and family stability. Let’s challenge our government to do better for women by offering free contraception, feminine hygiene products and an end to the pink tax.

Two nurses, Mary McLean and Margaret Brewster, pushing a hand lawn mower by Lady Elizabeth Bruce Memorial Hospital. C2128, 1941, courtesy Windermere District Historical Society

International Women’s Day Dear Editor: International Women’s Day takes place on March 8 every year to celebrate women’s rights and inspire people to act in the ongoing fight for gender equality. The theme for International Women’s Day 2021 is #ChooseToChallenge. It highlights the importance of challenging biases and misconceptions to create a more inclusive and gender-equal world. One might assume that in first-world countries like Canada, we have already met that challenge, but that is not the case. We still have work to do. I am a breast cancer survivor, as well as a woman who had to live in hiding for two years after leaving an abusive relationship. When I had breast cancer, I was offered lots of support – phone calls, emails, cards, flowers, public and private prayers, baking, and offers of assistance for pretty much anything we needed help with. When I left my home and abusive partner, my Priest arranged for me to stay temporarily with a congregation member in the suite of her garage; it turned out that I lived there for two years. Bless them both for their help, but most women are not so lucky. I then navigated my way through the legal process, financial worries, counselling, fear for my life

and well-being (my former partner was threatening and stalking me), and worry that I would lose my job (which actually did happen as I was trying to juggle school, the legal process and a demanding job all at the same time). I was also agonizing over what to tell my family and friends, feeling shame about what I was going through, grieving many losses, and trying to rebuild my life with very little support – certainly much less than when I had breast cancer. Men’s use of violence against women is characterized by a unilateral pattern of controlling, threatening, oppressive, coercive and sometimes assaultive tactics intended to create fear and compliance, interspersed with positive-looking behaviours. Abusive men will employ a seemingly infinite number of strategies to maintain power and control, including physical, sexual, psychological, financial, social, spiritual and cultural abuse. Acts of violence against women are not isolated incidents, rather part of a belief system that treats some lives as less valuable than others. Although it is challenging for me to share my experience, I choose to do so because every girl and woman deserves to feel safe and supported. It is our basic human right. Carolyn Rogers, Invermere

The Columbia Valley

CANADIAN COMMUNITY NEWSPAPER AWARD 2013

Pioneer

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.

March, 4, 2021

LETTERS

The Columbia Valley Pioneer • 7

The opinions expressed in letters to our community are the writers opinions and should not be interpreted as the view of the Pioneer.

Meat to Food Bank Dear Editor: The deer cull in Invermere is a heated topic with strong opinions being expressed on both sides. Regardless of how people feel about this, we wish to inform the public that the meat is donated to the Columbia Valley

Food Bank. Thanks to the DOI, it is distributed to people who experience food insecurity in our community and who receive it very gratefully. Nesta Becker Chair, on behalf of the board of the Columbia Valley Food Bank

Re : Deer Cull Dear Editor: I am one of “those people” opposed to the deer cull. Typical of some consumptive users, Bill Dubois implies that my attitude toward wildlife is invalid. I am one of the majority that loves deer as they are. We feel an affinity with individual animals, a reverence for nature and an abhorrence of cruelty. The government (MFLNRO) has abdicated responsibility by permitting unqualified politicians and municipal employees to “manage” wildlife. This management involves inhumane killing that is gruesome and unnecessary. The justification for culling has evolved and dwindled to a vague, unscientific notion of reducing complaints. Deer are “urban” and no longer know “how to live outside the town boundaries”. The translocation report states, however, “None of the translocated Invermere deer generated complaints, and all exhibited migratory behaviour.” In my review of bylaw reports, there are few complaints. Does Invermere really have the most dangerous deer in BC? In fact, Invermere has a stable population as measured unscientifically, once each year, over the last 11 years. The count takes place after deer return to town to achieve the highest number. Adequate browse, habitat and corridors determine carrying capacity and when individuals disappear, others arrive. DOI decided that the arbitrary, maximum number of deer is 100. DOI is

killing is in the public works yard and just north of Sobeys – my neighbourhood. This is what is “irrational” — killing animals to decrease a stable population, ineffectively, using a method proven inhumane, while ignoring government advice on non-lethal methods to avoid and reduce conflict with non-dangerous wildlife. Al Miller and current council did not “have the courage to pass a motion”. Puzzled, readers should know that slaughter is operational – equal to filling a pothole, with no vote taken. I am still waiting for one council member who promised “humane alternatives” and “complete transparency” to speak up. Most ludicrous and puzzling, in the Dubois Invermere “wildlife management” scenario, is this. DOI has “unlimited expansion” and “overpopulation” and needs to “control the deer numbers” to ensure the “survival of our wildlife”. DOI slaughtered 21 last year and is killing up to thirty this year - as mule deer numbers decline and chronic wasting disease is imminent. The sustainable, ethical, rational way to deal with deer conflict is education, messaging to increase tolerance, enforcement of bylaws and in this time of our increased appreciation for our relationship with nature, kindness. Charles Lamphier, Invermere

Relocate the deer Dear editor: Interesting how the residents and tourists in Radium Hot Springs appreciate the wildlife that roams the streets there. Yet there is Invermere wanting to murder the deer. How about all the turkeys too, that so many love to watch? Why not truck the deer out here to Brisco, at the ROCK-A-BOO RANCH, and let them roam free on this family ranch like the deer and elk already do? This ranch pays property tax along with an extra tax on 20 parcels of the ranch that

lays against the Columbia wetlands the ranch does not use, so let the deer have it. I am sure people who truly care about Invermere’s wildlife would ban together and pay a trucker to bring them out (the 40 miles). Then no one would have to whine about deer in their way. Unload them by the waterfall that is part of this ranch... There is plenty to graze on here, year around on a lot of lands. John Palmer Rock-A-Boo Ranch

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Columbia Basin Trust operates in the unceded traditional territories of the Ktunaxa, Lheidli T’enneh, Secwepemc, Sinixt and Syilx Nations.

Call for funding applications Applications are now open for projects that will create safe and vibrant public spaces, improve mobility options and provide digital solutions that improve people’s health. Whether it’s pop-up bike paths, community gardens, art installations or Wi-Fi hot spots, small projects can make a big difference in communities. If you have an idea of how to transform public spaces find out if your organization is eligible to apply to the #HealthyCommunities Initiative you can simply scan the QR code below which will take you to https://www.cfso.net/chci/ You can also reach out to: Central Okanagan Foundation Community Foundation of the Kootenay Rockies Community Foundation of the North Okanagan Maple Ridge Community Foundation Nakusp and Area Community Foundation Port Moody Foundation

Round one Feb 9 -March 9

Round two May 14 - June 25

8 • The Columbia Valley Pioneer

March, 4, 2021

Pandemic alters winter recreation patterns in the Columbia Valley Nordic ski numbers exploding, although alpine ski numbers are down

By Steve Hubrecht steve@columbiavalleypioneer.com The COVID-19 pandemic has driven people outside in the Columbia Valley this winter, but they’re not getting outside in quite the same way as they did before. Alpine ski numbers are down in the valley’s first ‘pandemic winter’, but numbers for nordic skiing are up, way up, and several other winter recreation pursuits have seen a bump in participants as well. Many Columbia Valley residents could be heard talking about how the ski hill lift lines had never been so long during and after the Christmas holidays. In January, the Pioneer reached out to Panorama Mountain Resort to find out if the chatter was true, and whether or not there had been more visitors than usual. Unfortunately, that wasn’t quite the case, with alpine skier numbers down at the resort compared with before the pandemic. But as Panorama chief marketing officer Marke Dickson noted, the resort had seen an increase in people doing nordic skiing and fat biking. “We were pleased with the holiday period for many reasons, including terrific snow. The number of skiers and riders on the mountain met our expectation, but in reality these numbers were quite a bit lower than we’re used to. We are really grateful for the very strong support we saw from locals, with many season pass holders on the mountain every day,” wrote Dickson, later outlining that Panorama has spent the past few years significantly developing international markets, drawing skiers and riders from the United Kingdom, Germany, New Zealand and Australia. “It’s the absence of these overseas guests that we’re really feeling this winter,” wrote Dickson, adding that the resort team is already working with partners around the world to bring international travellers back next winter. “While B.C. travel advisories are in place, we’ll continue to see fewer skiers and riders than normal. The data we have and the calls coming in show that Prairie guests are excited to get back to the mountains when advisories are lifted. Indications are that we’ll have a really strong March and April, if the pandemic starts to ease.” But as Dickson pointed out, alpine skiing is not the only activity on offer at Panorama, and these other winter pursuits have been a hit during COVID-19. “Cross-country skiing, snowshoeing and fat biking have been increasing in popularity for years, but this season we’ve seen a real boom in trail use – numbers are way up. Experienced (nordic) skiers and first-time snowshoers are filling the parking lot at Greywolf,” wrote Dickson, adding this spike in cross-country ski volumes mean that the main trails are now groomed every day, and the resort has purchased new grooming equipment, opened a nordic hub (at the Greywolf clubhouse) and expanded the Mountain Friends program to include nordic trail hosts. “Since the pandemic hit in March 2020, sales of recreational products like bikes, skis and snowshoes went through the roof. We think we’ll see the first-timers of this season back for years to come,” wrote Dickson. Nipika Mountain Resort has also seen a tremendous surge of interest in nordic skiing. “We are booming. It’s unbelievable. For the whole

winter, we have been at about 90 per cent occupancy,” said Nipika co-founder Lyle Wilson. “For nordic skiing, it’s been an absolute atomic bomb explosion of participation. I’ve never seen anything like it.” Wilson said Nipika has had 120 to 130 cars in its parking lot most weekend days, with the lot, in fact, full capacity most of the time, and cars parked down the road. “There’s new people out cross-country skiing, left, right and centre,” he said. “You actually can’t buy (nordic) gear right now, all the suppliers have it flying off the shelves as soon as they stock it.”

Lillian Whiteway both seeing a near constant stream of users, especially on the weekends, despite this winter not being the best season in terms of skating conditions. “When the pandemic finally does settle down, there’s going to be some good trends for the environment and for physical and mental health and wellness that hopefully will stick around. We’re learning some things that are helping the planet and that helps us,” said Wilson. “A lot of people who maybe normally head on down to Mexico for their winter vacation have learned instead to look around and see what’s close to home. And with Zoom and remote working, people are finding ways to strike a better balance between work and getting outside every now and then. I think these things are great, for everybody, for society as a whole. And of course, for a place like Nipika, they are good for us as a business.” At Inside Edge Boutique and Sports in Invermere, Cheryl Maybuck said that the store has noticed a definite increase in interest in cross country skiing, fat biking and snowshoeing. “Especially people wanting to buy equipment. In fact, there’s so much interest, and there’s not much left to buy,” said Maybuck. “If the COVID-19 travel restrictions weren’t in place, I’m sure our gear rentals would be up as much as sales.” Maybuck adding it makes sense that nordic skiing, fat biking and snowshoeing have all become Pioneer file photo more popular. “There’s safe distancing in each of those sports, and they get you outside and active. And it’s Nipika is currently doing double the number of nor- fun. We’ve noticed that a lot of people who might nordic ski lessons as it would in a typical winter, and has sold mally head south for most of the winter aren’t heading quadruple the number of daily trail passes. Season pass south. Because they usually spend the winter somewhere sales for the nordic trails at Nipika are 300 per cent their sunny, they don’t have cross country ski gear, or snownormal level. Even on mid-week days, Tuesday through shoes, or other winter gear, so they want to buy it,” she Thursday, Nipika is seeing 100 or more people out on its said. “We’re definitely seeing a lot of that.” trail system, outlined Wilson. Phil Gorman at Far Out Adventure Hub also told The resort has had to change its facilities to adapt to the Pioneer that interest in renting cross country skiing COVID-19 protocols, but even so, “we are run off our gear at his store “is way up” and interest in renting snowfeet,” said Wilson. “Stuff that’s never happened before shoes is up a bit too. is happening...COVID-19 has a lot to do with it, and From December until early February this year, Gorpeople who usually go south for their winter holidays, man has had 56 guests renting cross country ski gear, a or who do other winter sports, are looking for a way to big increase from the 30 guests renting cross country ski get away from crowds...They’re looking for something gear during the same period last year. “I am also seeing safe and they want to relieve stress, and cross-country ski more multi-day ski rentals this year,” added Gorman. trails are great for that.” Snowshoe rentals were up, but not as dramatically: Far Out had rented out snowshoe gear to 49 guests from December through early February, as compared with 40 last year. Ice skate rentals, however, were down, with 13 pairs having been renting so far this winter, compared with 40 last winter. “That (the drop in ice skate rentals) probably has a lot to do with it not being the greatest season for the Whiteway, with the struggle to get open at the start of the year and then several chinook-like weather events melting everything,” said Gorman. Gorman noted that rentals have been “quiet and then busy”, coming in waves and lulls, with, for instance, one weekend in January having only one snowshoe rental (which was later cancelled), and then the following weekend having half a Photo by Ryan Watmough dozen cross country ski rentals. He confirmed Wilson and Maybuck’s comments about a boom Wilson, who is also a longstanding member of the in participation resulting in a lack of winter recreation Toby Creek Nordic Ski Club, also noted that ice skating gear available for purchase and said, “I’ve been talking to has been incredibly popular this winter, with the White- the guys at SportCheck in Calgary and they can’t keep way on Lake Windermere as well as the smaller Lake snowshoes on the shelf.”

March, 4, 2021

The Columbia Valley Pioneer • 9

Marriage Commissioner The Vital Statistics Agency, Ministry of Health, is looking for an individual to serve as a Marriage Commissioner for Invermere. The individual will perform civil marriages within their community on behalf of the Agency. Applicants must reside in Invermere in order to be considered for this position. For information and an application form please visit our website at: gov.bc.ca/becoming-a-marriage-commissioner

In total participants of the Whiteway Winter Challenge traveled 7,202 kilometres: 793 kilometres beyond the collective goal of 6,409 kilometres. Put those kilometres end to end leaving from Kinsmen Beach, heading east that leaves the participant collectively 964 kilomeres in the Atlantic Ocean off the most eastern point of Canada, Cape Spear.

Whiteway Winter Challenge a big success Participants walk, ski, skate far enough to collectively reach the Atlantic Ocean

By Steve Hubrecht steve@columbiavalleypioneer.com The Toby Creek Nordic Club’s Virtual Whiteway Winter Challenge has now wrapped up and has proven a huge success, with participants far exceeding the target goal. The club morphed its annual Whiteway Winter Challenge into a virtual challenge this year, as the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic made it impossible to run the usual challenge. As reported two weeks ago in the Pioneer, the Virtual Whiteway Winter Challenge saw 80 participants each individually logging as many miles as possible on the Whiteway on nordic skis, ice-skates, on their own two feet, or by other self-propelled means, from Jan. 22 to Feb. 22. Collectively the participants had outlined a goal of 6,409 kilometres before the challenge started, and then through the weeks the event ran, Lake Windermere Ambassadors program coordinator Shannon McGinty plotting their progress on a map, imagining all the participants are a single person walking east across Canada starting at Kinsmen Beach. When the Pioneer last reported on it, the participants were two weeks and slightly more than 3,000 kilometres into their challenge, putting them, on the map, near Bonfield, Ontario, a small town just off the TransCanada a touch east of North Bay and Lake Nipissing, headed in the direction of Ottawa. The last two weeks of the challenge saw participants put in a strong effort to close out the challenge, logging enough miles in the third week to end up in New Brunswick, and then for good measure posting 2,140 kilometres in the final week. This adds up to a to-

We want to hear from you! We are looking for your feedback to accurately identify needs, gaps and priorities in our community for those with diverse abilities now (1-5 years) and into the future (5+ years). Until March 12, 2021 individuals with diverse abilities who live in the Columbia Valley or a person who represents them such as a family member, caregiver or guardian are invited to complete our Needs Assessment Survey by accessing the following link on Survey Monkey. https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/THNHNB7

tal of 7,202 kilometres, enough to beat the goal by almost 800 kilometres, and to — on the map — go clear past Cape Spear, Newfoundland, Canada’s easternmost point. “We’re definitely in the ocean off the east coast, 964 kilometres into the ocean” McGinty told the Pioneer, adding she’s quite pleased with how the virtual challenge has gone. “I’d say it’s been a huge success,” she said, adding participants have been telling her the challenge motivated them to get outside and on the Whiteway much more than they normally do, particularly so during the cold snap that held the Columbia Valley in the vice-grip of a deep freeze for almost two weeks. “We wanted to have a feel-good community event that got people outside, and that’s what we had. People really enjoyed it,” said McGinty. The top individual in the challenge was Sue Crowley (who travelled 400 kilometres) and the top team was the Winder Warriors (who managed a collective 1015 kilometres travelled).

Dr. Sveen will begin offering Therapeutic Botox for Migraine treatment. Treatment using Botox for other indications will be limited at this point, but will be considered on a case by case basis. Please call 250-342-9206 to book appointments for you and your family.

Spring Funding 2021 FOR HEALTH RELATED PROJECTS

Licensed Program • Quality Care

• Group Day Care (3-5 yr. olds) • Pre-School • Infant/Toddler Program • Out-of-School Program Drop-ins welcome.

Annual General Meeting Thursday, March 11, 7 p.m. Via Zoom

The Invermere Health Care Auxiliary Society is pleased to invite non-profit organizations to apply for funding for projects that will enhance health care and healthy living in our community. It has been a challenging year but the IHCAS is pleased to be in a position to fund qualifying projects and organizations amounts not to exceed $2,000. The source of funding for the IHCAS is the Invermere Thrift Store, 90 plus volunteers working tirelessly to strengthen health initiatives in the Columbia Valley. Applicants are required to be qualified donees as required by CRA. For Funding Applications and any questions please email seona@shaw.ca . Deadline for applications being received is March 26, 2021. Successful applicants will be notified mid-April, 2021.

Contact Pat Miller for more information.

250-342-3168

Pioneer Classified Advertising 250-341-6299

10 • The Columbia Valley Pioneer

March, 4, 2021

HERE TO SERVE YOU

BUSINESS OF THE WEEK

CARPET CLEANING Enjoy life, we’ll clean it up!

BUSINESS OF THE WEEK

Aspire is a Chartered Professional Accountant office providing a start-to-finish accounting approach, integrating technology and streamlining processes, so you can focus on what you do best in your business! As your financial partner, the Aspire team supports their clients in understanding their numbers to better manage their personal or organization’s finances.

CARPET CLEANING

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

TILE AND GROUT CLEANING Business: 250-342-9692

Visit www.heavensbest.com for more information

RR#4 2117–13 Ave. Invermere, BC V0A 1K4

Cell: 250-342-1273

ptarmiganrugclean@gmail.com

CONCRETE

Find them at aspirecpa.ca or on FB and IG @aspire.cpa

READY MIX CONCRETE Concrete Pump • Sand & Gravel Heavy Equipment Rentals • Crane Service

JOIN YOUR CHAMBER AND REAP THE REWARDS! P. 250-342-2844 E. membership@cvchamber.com

CONTRACTING

Proudly Serving the Valley for over 50 years

For competitive prices and prompt service, call: 250-342-3268 (plant) 250-342-6767 (office)

Big Cat Painting

• 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.

For all your painting needs! 10% off painting service until the end of February

250-688-9418 • 778-526-5255 Serving the East Kootenay area!

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

CONTRACTING

• 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

Kekuli Bay Cabinetry kekulibaycabinetry.com

Specializing in all heating, electric, gas and wood. • Fireplaces • Commercial and residential • New builds • Renovations.

A licensed, registered and bonded company

We also offer roundthe-clock service calls.

Give us a call! James, 250-688-1267 or Jerry, 250-342-5299 Email: jeffersoncontractingltd@gmail.com

INTERIOR • EXTERIOR • WALL COVERINGS Seniors Discounts

Gary’s

Professional Painting & Decorating Ltd. 1978 FREE Estimates

CUSTOM WOOD FINISHING FAUX FINISHES JOURNEYMAN RED SEAL

403-650-4622 • garysptg@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

CONCRETE I N

P U R S U I T

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

• 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. Office: 250-342-6500 • Toll Free: 1-888-341-2221

LET US HAMMER OUT THE DETAILS FOR ALL YOUR ADVERTISING NEEDS, CALL 250-341-6299

N E W S PA P E R

March, 4, 2021

The Columbia Valley Pioneer • 11

HERE TO SERVE YOU CONTRACTING

INSURANCE

Patryk Jagiello STAIN/LACQUER/PAINT INTERIOR/EXTERIOR patco_dev@shaw.ca

INSURANCE AGENCIES LTD.

(250) 270-0345

BOX 2228 742 - 13th STREET INVERMERE, BC V0A 1K0 P: 250-342-3031 F: 250-342-6945 info@lambertinsurance.ca

in Calgary since 2002 in Invermere since 2004

Patco Developments Ltd. PROFESSIONAL PAINTERS

PHARMACY

P H A R M A C Y ( 2 0 1 9 ) LT D . Irena Shepard, B.Sc. (Pharm.)., Émilie Lamoureux, Pharm D., Laura Kipp, Pharm D.

(Servicing the Valley since 1999)

Your Compounding Pharmacy

NEW SEWER CAMERA

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

www.kootenayinsurance.ca SERVICES

• 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

• Interior/Exterior Painting • Staining • Clear Coat • New Construction • Renovations

HOW WE ROLL Gerard Rehman

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

Scott Postlethwaite

Residential, Commercial Electric Furnace and Hot Water Tank Repair and Service For All Your Electrical Needs

CLEANING & MAINTENANCE ON ALL WOOD BURNING APPLIANCES • WETT INSPECTIONS

Sales ~ Service ~ Installation

UNIVERSAL DOORS & EXTERIORS Arnold Scheffer 250-342-6700

unidoorext@live.ca • unidoorext.ca

Industrial ~ Commercial ~ Residential

WINDOW COVERINGS SHOWROOM

1710 10th Avenue – Invermere, B.C. V0A 1K0

• • • •

Doors Windows Flooring Painting/Interior/ Exterior • Kitchen Renovations • Window Coverings

Can this be recycled?

Check the BC RECYCLEpEdia 604-RECYCLE (732-9253) 1-800-667-4321

• Bathroom Renovations • Additions • Decks • Finish Carpentry • Basement Renovations

KITCHEN CABINETS & COUNTER TOPS

Check the BC RECYCLEpEdia 915 7th Avenue, Unit B, Invermere • EMAIL: fairmontridge@telus.net • 250-342-4663 www.rcbc.ca

Recycling council of B.c. MeMBeR

SERVICE EXCELLENCE IN THE COLUMBIA VALLEY

ing questions? N E W S PA P E R

YCLING HOTLINE 04-732-9253 800-667-4321

(7655) LetUsRoll4U@Gmail.com

20 years experience • Satisfaction guaranteed!

invermereelectric@gmail.com

Where to recycle?

Ph: 250-688-ROLL

4950 Hot Springs Rd. Fairmont Hot Springs, B.C. V0B 1L1

Beat the fall rush ~ clean your Chimney this spring!

SERVICES

Free Estimates

P.O. Box 130 Invermere, BC V0A 1K0 Office: 250-342-2175 • Fax: 250-342-2669 Cindy.mackay@kootenayinsurance.ca

SERVICES

LAMBERT-KIPP

Come in and browse our giftware

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

North American Warranty

SINCE 1991 For all your All Makes and Models ICBC Glass Repair advertising Out of Province Vehicle Inspections needs, call Auto Body Repairs • Painting • Quality Parts Recycle? Yes or no? Tire Sales and Installation We give all students 15% off with valid student ID Amanda at ReCYClepedia app Get the BC 250-341-6299 141 Industrial Rd. 2 • 250-342-9424 • Open Monday - Saturday, 8:30 am - 5:30 pm

www.columbiavalleypioneer.com

ng council of B.c. MeMBeR

www.rcbc.ca

Recycling council of B.c. MeMBeR

N E W S PA P E R

Phone: 250-341-6299 • Email: info@columbiavalleypioneer.com

N E W S PA P E R

12 • The Columbia Valley Pioneer

March, 4, 2021

P ioneer C lassifieds

• Phone: 250-341-6299 • Email: info@columbiavalleypioneer.com • Web: www.columbiavalleypioneer.com

Please note that we will not accept Cheers nor Jeers directed towards letters to the editor.

ANNOUNCEMENT

CHEERS & JEERS

LOST AND FOUND

MISC. FOR SALE

SERVICES

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.

Cheers to Mme. Whittick’s Gr 3/4 class for spending Tuesday morning collecting garbage and dog doo from the Lake! You are all awesome! Jeers to those dog owners who neglect to pick up after your pet. My 8-year-old just picked up your dog poop.

Cheers to Mitch and Kate for helping my wife and I pull her car out of the ditch in Columbia Ridge Drive. If it wasn’t for your chain, we wouldn’t know how to get her out. We appreciate you helping us in urgent times, you guys are a small-town hero!

LOST: Electric Hearing Aid (Right side) somewhere on main St. in Invermere. If found, please contact the Pioneer. 250-3416299 ext. 101.

Pike Contracting Excavating and Skid Steer services. Call Jason 250-342-5277.

Huge Cheers to the kind person that followed a logging truck and got police involved after the truck run me off the highway into the ditch going up to Panorama. The logging truck took off and this kind person helped, and the trucker now has a fine.

Cheers to the wonderful, friendly and so very helpful young man at Skookum Inn Centex! He comes running out and offers to help, every time! Sure, appreciate the gas discount!

FOR SALE: The following items in fine shape: Roller frame for heavy shop machines (adjustable): FREE A 61”x38” oak desk, 1 file drawer and 6 storage drawers: $30 (photo available). Jessem table mounted router system with Veritas Router fine adjust Bit Jack, has storage drawers: $200. prapro@shaw.ca or Phone 250-341-3540 land line.

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 Cheers to whomever paid for my Timmies order ahead of memuch appreciated... it made my day. I really needed that chili and a bun!

Jeers to the places that allow skunks to hang around due to providing a place to live and feeding them as well around the Valley. Time to do something before the next batch shows up!

Cheers to our community for the homemade Valentine’s Day cards. The seniors loved them!

Jeers to Dr. Bonnie Henry and what she says about freedom lovers in the full page article on page 3 in the Feb 18th Pioneer. What’s wrong with loving freedom? Millions of soldiers died for our freedom and I don’t think freedom is a bad thing.

Jeers to the lack of long-term rental homes within the valley, it makes it very hard for local family’s to be able to live anywhere ... something needs to be done on short term gouging vacation rentals.

A BIG Cheers to the unknown considerate person that returned some mail I accidently dropped across from the Post Office. Cheers also to the Post office for re-depositing it in my box. We are so lucky to live in Invermere!

STORAGE NEWHOUSE STORAGE Various sizes available. Now with climatecontrolled units. Call 250-342-3637.

LOT/ACREAGE FOR SALE

Cheers to Al Miller, it takes a real man to apologies. Much appreciated sir!

LISTINGS NEEDED!

BUYING OR SELLING?

I WANT TO SELL YOUR HOUSE!

BARRY BROWN-JOHN

WHY LIST WITH GERRY?

Call or text

✔ Website/Social Media ✔ 3D Tour, YouTube, Drone ✔ Responsive, Local, Expert

LIST WITH GERRY: FOR RESULTS! *Not intended to solicit those already working with an agent.

BUYING OR SELLING CALL 250-341-1202

gerrytaft.ca Personal Real Estate Corporation

I specialize in rural, recreational, farm and ranch properties.

“Rocky Mountain Land Man”

250-342-5245

b.brownjohn@gmail.com ELKHORN COUNTRY ESTATES: Phase 3 sold out, coming soon phase 4. Phone Elkhorn Ranch 250-342-1268. www.elkhornranches.com.

Rockies West Realty Independently owned and operated

ANNOUNCEMENT

2021-2022 ECOSYSTEM RESTORATION/COMMUNITY PROTECTION FUEL TREATMENT ANNUAL PLAN & OPERATION MAP The Rocky Mountain Trench Ecosystem Restoration Program and partner agencies and organizations would like to inform the public that the activities planned for Grassland Ecosystem Restoration and Community Protection Fuels Treatments are available for public viewing at the following website: https://www.trench-er.com and select Current Plan link The 2021-2022 Annual Plan document identifies the project leads and their contact information should the public have concerns or questions about individual projects. Deadline for comments or concerns is April 15, 2021.

LOT/ACREAGE WANTED Looking for Land for purchase, over 5 acres. Close to Invermere. Please contact 250-688-3739.

TOWNHOUSE FOR SALE Radium Townhouse for Sale: Very bright, 2-bdrm, 2.5 bath. Finished basement. 5 appliances, freezer, gas BBQ. Call 1-403-616-7730 for more info.

MISC. FOR SALE Top Quality Hay Round bales. Indoor bales $120 per bale, outdoor bales $60 per bale. Phone Elkhorn Ranch 250-342-1268.

Three bar style Pool Tables, 8 ft. Phone 250-341-1528 for pricing. 0.74 ct. Canadian diamond ring and band set. Mounted in platinum laser engraved to verify certification. $2500. Text 250-688-1581.

VEHICLES FOR SALE 2007 Honda Accord EX/L with navigation. 174,500 kms. Power doors and windows. Sunroof, heated leather seats. Great condition. Original owner. $4,700, 1-403-671-6733.

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 Offering Excellent Service & Fair Pricing! B.B.’s Home & Lawn Care Services: Renovations, Handyman Repairs, Small moves, Dump runs, House Checks, House Cleaning, Yard Maintenance, Tree removal. Book now for snow removal. 250-688-2897.

The Heartfelt Companion: SERVICE FOR SENIORS 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! Rest assured; COVID-19 precautions are in place to keep you safe. “The Heartfelt Companion team provide, in the truest sense, heartfelt companionship. They always have mom’s best interest in mind. I find that my family can once again enjoy our time with mom, as we know she is being cared for, lifting this responsibility from our shoulders. We can once again simply enjoy each other’s company. We have tremendous gratitude for their service.” 250-341-5683 www. heartfeltcompanionservices. com Kootenay Country Electrical Qualified Electrical Service Licensed, Bonded, Insured Highly skilled electrician Call Dean 250-342-5516.

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. Looking for a Journeyman plumber or 4th year apprentice. Coppercity plumbing. Contact 250-341- 7373 or email coppercityplumbing@gmail.ca. Electrician Wanted Full-time. Must have drivers’ licence, 3 years minimum of electrical experience. Taynton Bay Electrical 250-342-1355.

March, 4, 2021

The Columbia Valley Pioneer • 13

HELP WANTED

Arrowhead Brewing Company Come join our amazing beer crew! Looking for 1-2 people. Duties include administration, bookkeeping, account relations, front of house supervisor, scheduling, serving, etc. Pay and duties based on experience. Email info@abcbrew.ca.

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.

Arrowhead Brewing Company Come join our amazing “Back of House” crew! Looking for 1 person. Duties include brewing assisting, tank/keg washing, packaging, and deliveries. Pay based on experience. Email info@abcbrew.ca.

FOR LEASE

Restaurant for Lease Established and highly reputable turn-key fast-food business opportunity. Ideal for take-out, delivery, and indoor/outdoor casual dining. Easily accessible with ample parking. Located in Fairmont Hot Springs, BC Contact: Tonysgreekgrill@gmail.com HELP WANTED

HELP WANTED

FIREPLACE INSTALLER

Invermere Veterinary Hospital is seeking a full-time Practice Manager to join our dynamic Hospital Team. It is our Mission to provide “Collaborative, compassionate care for our Columbia Valley Creatures” and “Our Values” follow us each day as we strive to treat our patients, clients, and professional team with the utmost respect and compassion.

DISTRICT OF INVERMERE

914 – 8th Avenue, PO Box 339 Invermere, B.C. V0A 1K0 Tel: 250-342-9281 • Fax: 250-342-2934

TEMPORARY POSITION Gardener 1 The District of Invermere has an opening for a Temporary Gardener Position within the Public Works Department. This position is within the CUPE Local 2982 bargaining unit and is a one year, seasonal, 40 hours per week position. Minimum Qualifications: • Horticulture Certificate(s) or equivalent experience is required. • Excellent public relations skills are required. • Ability to supervise other employees. • Ability to to make independent decisions • Working knowledge of WorkSafe BC Regulations and safe work procedures is preferred. • Valid BC Class 5 Driver’s License. Submission of a Drivers Abstract is required. • Ability to work in all weather conditions, including extreme heat and rain and perform physical labour which includes walking, lifting, and maintenance work with a shovel and rake. • Preference will be given to applicants with experience in landscaping, gardening or working towards Horticultural Certification. • Ability to work weekends This position is primarily focused on flowerbed planting and maintenance. Typical duties include designing and preparation of flowerbeds, gardening tasks involving the cultivation of a variety of flowers and plants in large garden areas, planting, weeding, fertilizing and pruning numerous varieties of plants, flowers, shrubs, bushes and trees and assists with scheduling, training and supervision of parks staff. General Hours of work: • 8 am – 4:30 pm, Monday – Friday. Weekend work will be required. Employment Term: • Employment will commence in April and will terminate in October. Pay Rate: • Probationary Rate: $28.95 per hour. Upon successful completion of the 600 hours probationary period, the pay rate will increase to $29.82. Applicants are invited to submit their resumes by 12 pm on Friday, March 26, 2021 to: District of Invermere Attn: Kindry Luyendyk, Corporate Officer PO Box 339, Invermere, BC, V0A 1K0 Fax: (250) 342-2934 Email: corporateservices@invermere.net

Looking for a friendly, responsible, self-motivated individual with a professional appearance with technical ability.

We are looking for an enthusiastic, leadership driven candidate with experience in HR Management as well as Accounting for small business. The Practice Manager performs a wide range of administrative duties related to the practice. This includes supporting the entire team and promoting our Values and Culture, as well as overseeing the business operations, and supporting the hospital’s mission of delivering high quality patient care and exceptional client service.

Preference will be made for a candidate with knowledge of fireplace installation. Must have a valid BC Driver’s License.

Please email or fax resume with references to Diamond Heating and Spas 385 Laurier Street, Invermere, BC V0A 1K7 Email: info@diamondheatingandspas.com Fax: 250-342-7103

EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY

Education Coordinator

Please visit our website at www.invermereveterinaryhospital.com to review the full posting for this position.

• • •

This position is responsible to oversee all aspects of the Shuswap Indian Band’s Education and Employ- • ment programming. In addition, duties will include the provision of culturally based learning activities • and providing ongoing support to students and band members. • RESPONSIBILITIES INCLUDE: • Administer the Indigenous Services Canada Education program (elementary to post-secondary) and ensure compliance to all the program terms and conditions. • Apply for call for proposals and submit reports to funders. • Review PSE and Employment policy yearly and develop protocols/policies where needed. • Provide supervision to education support staff as directed by the Director of Operations. • Attend meetings with community partners, in person and via phone conference, and attend workshops and conferences relevant to education. • Maintain contact via email, phone and/or in person, with current post-secondary students, to assist in what they need (within ISC guidelines) and assist in solving issues relevant to education. • Review report cards from elementary and high school Shuswap students. • Maintain good relations with educational institutions and Aboriginal Learning Centres. • Keep files and folders updated, including all request forms and invoices • Serve as an advocate for Shuswap Band learners, in particular those who are members of the Shuswap Indian Band. • Work closely with the aboriginal education workers and school guidance staff to ensure students have the appropriate prerequisite qualifications to pursue post-secondary education in the most appropriate career path for long term success. • Facilitate opportunities for Shuswap learners. • Grow existing and new partnerships to develop a long-term funding pool that supports scholarships, bursaries, living and travel allowances, and other needs that directly contribute to advancing learning, job readiness, retention and advancement. • Communicate the numerous scholarship and bursary programs available for Shuswap Band learners, assist with making applications and monitor learners to ensure they take advantage of these opportunities. • Develop and update forms for post secondary application package when necessary. EMPLOYMENT READINESS: • Work with prospective employers, mentors and trades training partners to build (i) employability skills and job readiness; (ii) increase employment opportunities across a diverse range of sectors; and (iii) enhance job retention and opportunities for promotion within organizations. • Assist adult members of the band in pursuing education to assist in employment.

•

Work with agencies and the business sector to advance interest and capacity for entrepreneurial initiative by Shuswap Band members. Organize information sessions and training course for members, geared towards employment and for career building purposes. Rotate caterers and artists from the Shuswap community to make sure that each one has a chance to use their services when there are gatherings, meetings, and workshops. Develop forms for applicants for training/courses/employment. Facilitate workshops for resume and cover letter writing and hold practice interviews. Research training/courses for members relevant to what they need to be employed in areas of their interest and according to labour market demands in the area. Conduct other related duties as directed by the Director of Operations..

QUALIFICATIONS • Grade 12 minimum; post-secondary certification relevant to the position • Related experience working with children and adults in educational programming • Knowledge and experience working with public funding agencies related to education and employment training • Knowledge and experience in supporting First Nation learners, culture and language and communities SKILLS & ABILITIES: • Proficient computer skills (Microsoft Office) • Strong written and oral communication skills in English • Financial budgeting and planning skills • Records management skills • Demonstrated organizational skills TERMS AND CONDITIONS • Criminal records check (to include vulnerable sector) • Driver’s license and use of personal vehicle • Full-time position. Availability for meetings outside or normal work hours • Hours of work 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday to Friday (half-hour unpaid lunch) • Must adhere to the Shuswap Indian Band Human Resources Policy and Procedure Manual (Approved April 4, 2018). • Must adhere to the Shuswap Indian Band Financial policies and procedures (October 24, 2017).

To apply contact the Shuswap Indian Band, #3, 492 Arrow Road, Invermere BC, V0A 1K2 C/O Angela Sarsons, Director of Operations Email: dops@shuswapband.ca • Fax: 250-341-3683 Deadline for applications: Friday, March 12, 2021 at 4 p.m. MST.

14 • The Columbia Valley Pioneer Now accepting resumes for our maintenance crew. No experience required, on the job training provided. Duties include seasonal clean ups, mowing and odd jobs. Monday-Friday 40hrs/week, $14.60 up to $17/hour. Forward resumes with references to shalford@timberwolfmaintenance.ca

WE ARE HIRING! Full-time Permanent Positions Sunchaser Vacation Villas is all about providing excellent vacation experiences to the families that visit us year after year; and we need talent to provide it! We are currently hiring the following positions:

March, 4, 2021 The Eva Joseph Learning and Cultural Society is seeking an

The Eva Joseph Learning and Cultural Society is seeking an

Early Childhood Educator

Out-ofSchool Teacher

Eva Joseph Learning and Cultural Society and the Little Badger Early Learning Programs is looking to fill the position for Early Childhood Educator in our 3–5-year-old group full day program. Little Badgers Early Learning Programs is an industry leader in early childhood education with a focus on nature and the outdoors. Our team members are exposed to the Ktunaxa culture and language. We offer an excellent benefit and pension program. Key responsibilities: • Provide quality childcare. Plan and carry out developmentally and ageappropriate educational activities to engage children 3-5 years old. • Help children complete daily tasks and routine to gain independence. • Be an active member of our cohesive, positive, flexible team, which include staff, management, parents, and community members. • A strong leader that promotes collaboration and learning.

Eva Joseph Learning and Cultural Society has a great opportunity for the right person to be our next Out of School Teacher. This is a part time position working four to five hours a day. Preference may be given to those available for Full Time on school holidays and Pro-D Days. • • • •

Provide a safe, comfortable environment for kindergarten to 12-year-old children Provide a program to build young leaders. Have weekly/monthly goals for the children to aspire toward. Explore the outdoors daily.

The successful candidate will be: • Be an active member of our cohesive and cooperative team, which includes staff, parents, and community members. • knowledgeable and respectful of local First Nations communities and cultures. • Willing to take a 20 hr. Responsible Adult Course.

Resort Delivery Driver (1 year-round)

The successful candidates must have: • A valid Early Childhood Education (ECE) license or Early Childhood Education with Infant Toddler (ECE/IT) license. • A clear criminal record check for vulnerable persons • Medical clearance from a physician stating that physically, mentally, and emotionally capable of working with young children • Up to date immunization record • Child Safe First Aid Certificate • Possess a valid class 5 driver’s license

Maintenance Labourer (1 year-round)

Please submit a cover letter, resume, 3 references, and a copy of your ECE ECE/IT license to:

To apply or for further information, submit cover letter and resume, including 3 references to by March 5, 2021:

Carrie Rickards, General Manager Eva Joseph Learning and Cultural Society Email: carrie.littlebadgers@gmail.com

Thank you to all applicants who apply however, only those candidates selected for an interview will be contacted.

Must hold a valid BC Driver’s Licence in good standing; must be able to lift up to 50 lbs and go up and down stairs. Duties include but not limited to making delivery requests to specified guest rooms; maintaining driver logs and completing pre-trip inspections; stripping linens from guest rooms and carrying and delivering to laundry; carrying and delivering supply bins to each building

Must hold a valid BC Driver’s Licence in good standing; must be able to lift up to 50 lbs. The successful candidate should have a wide variety of basic electrical, plumbing, appliance repair, general building maintenance experience related to the care and upkeep of guest condos, resort buildings, recreation centre and mechanical rooms. We offer competitive wages and a great working atmosphere, apply now! Please send your resume with a cover letter to: Email: jobs@sunchaservillas.ca Fax: Attention: Employment at 1-250-345-6166

DISTRICT OF INVERMERE

914 – 8th Avenue, PO Box 339 Invermere, B.C. V0A 1K0 Tel: 250-342-9281 • Fax: 250-342-2934

EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY Summer Students • Parks Labourer • Gardener The District of Invermere is accepting applications for (please visit www. invermere.net for full description) • Summer Students to work as part of our Public Works Staff as Parks Labourers, Gardeners and support for all events. These positions are within the CUPE Local 2982 bargaining unit and are temporary, full-time, 40 hours per week positions. General Hours of work: (days and hours may vary) Parks Labourers • 6 am – 6 pm Wednesday - Sunday. • 4 pm – 12 am Mondays (Movies in the Mountains – July - August) Gardeners • 6 am – 6 pm Wednesday - Sunday. Employment Term: • Employment will commence in early May and will terminate in late August. Starting Pay Rate: • Starting at $17 per hour Please visit www.invermere.net for full job descriptions. Applicants are invited to submit their resumes until the position has been filled to: District of Invermere Attn: Kindry Luyendyk, Corporate Officer PO Box 339, Invermere, BC, V0A 1K0 Email: corporateservices@invermere.net

EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY

Executive Assistant (EA)/ Communications Officer Reporting directly to the Director of Operations, the Executive Assistant (EA) /Communications Officer serves as the primary point of contact for internal and external constituencies on matters pertaining to the Shuswap Indian Band. The EA/Communications Officer also serves as a liaison to the Director of Operations and the Senior management team; organizes and coordinates executive outreach and efforts; and develops and oversees the communications strategy. ADMINISTRATIVE RESPONSIBILITIES INCLUDE: • Completes a broad variety of administrative tasks for the Director of Operations and the Manager of Territorial Operations, including managing calendar, booking of appointments, travel arrangements, lodging, and other logistics. Completes expense reports. • Coordinates and hosts Zoom meetings. Upon request, takes meeting minutes and circulates to appropriate parties/staff. • Assists in the implementation of a filing system with the Director of Operations for quick access and easy retrieval. Ensures all hard copy and electronic filing is up-to-date. • Assists in the development and monitoring of the moveable capital assets inventory list and updates Director of Operations of replacement needs. • Recommends efficiencies related to office procedures and policy development. Performs research and preparation of draft policies. • Prepares a variety of written correspondence including: news releases, briefing notes, communiques, reports, articles, posters, polls, invites, etc.. • Examines all correspondence received to determine its applicability to SIB and makes recommendations to the Director of Operations and/or Senior Managers with respect to priority, and any follow up action to be taken. Provides relevant additional or background information for the Director of Operations. • Drafts replies and other correspondence for the Director of Operation’s signature and sometimes for the signature of the Chief and Council. • In the absence of the EA to Chief and Council, this position would be responsible for interim coverage. • Assists in the development of an orientation package for new staff and assists in the orientation process. • Processes invoices via the EASE portal as it relates to Director of Operation’s business. • Assists the Director of Operations to ensure that the information packets needed for Chief and Council meetings are ready for distribution. • Assists in the research and development of draft policies and procedures; update manual when approved by Council and disseminates the new/and or revised policies to all staff. • Assists the Director of Operations in taking meeting minutes at the Senior Management Meetings and the general staff meetings and other meetings as requested. • Assists in the research, preparation and/or review of grant submissions. Obtains support letters and supporting documentation to strengthen proposal submissions. • Provides a bridge for smooth communication between the Leadership office and internal departments; demonstrating leadership to maintain credibility, trust and support with senior management staff. • Works closely and effectively with the Director of Operations to keep him/her well informed of upcoming commitments and responsibilities. • Assists the Director of Operations in prioritizing conflicting needs; handles matter expeditiously, proactively, and follows-through on projects to successful completion, often with deadline pressures. • Performs other related duties as requested by the Director of Operations and the Manager of Territorial Operations.

The successful candidates must have: • A clear criminal record check for vulnerable persons. • Medical clearance from a physician stating that physically, mentally, and emotionally capable of working with young children. • Up to date immunization record. • Possess a valid Child Safe First Aid Certificate or willing to take. • Possess a valid class 5 driver’s license. • Must be 19 years or older.

COMMUNICATIONS RESPONSIBILITIES INCLUDE: • Assists the Director of Operations and the Senior Management Team in the development the Shuswap Indian Band Communications Strategy, including a branding strategy and roll-out. • Acts as a first point of contact for the Communications of the band; responds to general information requests and concerns and refers these, when appropriate to other persons or specialists within the Shuswap Indian Band. • Prepare articles and bulletins for submission to the monthly newsletter to membership. • Maintain and post relevant information to the SIB Website and SIB Facebook page ensuring timely communication. • Prepare information and post to the electronic sign. Advertise and prepare rental agreements for advertisement space. • Assist Senior Managers and support staff with written correspondence and suggests edits. • Coordinate and assist staff with video live-streaming of promotional events. • Act as an ambassador for Shuswap Indian Band and keep the Shuswap Indian Band up-to-date on information that directly impacts SIB in a timely manner. • Review and edit membership meeting minutes and compile the Annual General Meeting Report, including excerpts from each department. QUALIFICATIONS: • Minimum Grade 12 required. • Post-secondary education in Communications, Administration, Public Relations or related field. • Excellent written and verbal communication skills. • Works well under pressure and meets tight deadlines. • Strong work tenure: 3-5 years of experience supporting executives, preferably in a First Nations organization. • Proficient in Microsoft Office and related business and communication tools. • Proven social media and networking expertise. • Meticulous attention to detail. • A portfolio of work available for review. SKILLS AND ABILITIES • Strong organizational skills that reflect ability to perform and prioritize multiple tasks seamlessly with excellent attention to detail. • Strong interpersonal skills and the ability to build relationships with stakeholders, including Council, staff, membership, external partners and funders. • Demonstrated proactive approaches to problem-solving with strong decision-making capability. • Highly resourceful team-player, with the ability to also be extremely effective independently. • Proven ability to handle confidential information with discretion, be adaptable to various competing demands, and demonstrate the highest level of client service and response. • Demonstrated ability to achieve high performance goals and meet deadlines in a fast-paced environment. TERMS AND CONDITIONS • Full-time position (32.5 hours per week) Monday to Friday. • Must adhere to the Shuswap Indian Band Human Resources Policy and Procedure Manual (Approved April 4, 2018). • Must adhere to the Shuswap Indian Band Financial policies and procedures (October 24, 2017). • Wage based upon experience. Only those selected for an interview will be contacted. Preference will be given to persons of Aboriginal ancestry as per Section 16 (1) of the Canadian Human Rights Act. Appointment to this position will require a formal criminal record check, the details of which may preclude an offer of employment being finalized.

To apply contact the Shuswap Indian Band, #3, 492 Arrow Road, Invermere BC, V0A 1K2 C/O Angela Sarsons, Director of Operations Email: dops@shuswapband.ca• Fax: 250-341-3683 • Deadline for applications: Friday, March 5, 2021 at 5 p.m. MST.

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March, 4, 2021

The Columbia Valley Pioneer • 15

A&W Invermere participates Wilmer resident reaches quarin Mealshare program terfinals of tattoo competition

By Camille Aubin camille@columbiavalleypioneer.com

Mealshare, a national social enterprise on a mission to help end youth hunger, recently announced a new ongoing national partnership with A&W Canada. A healthy meal will be provided to a youth in need for every Mealshare item purchased at any A&W location across Canada, and the A&W in Invermere is no exception. One in five children lives with food insecurity in Canada. Mealshare is committed to creating a world where it’s easier to share with those in need, and every child and youth is fed as a result. “We won’t stop until we’ve seen the end of youth hunger,” said Jeremy Bryant, co-founder of Mealshare, in a recent press release. Mealshare was founded in 2013 with four partner restaurants in Alberta. Since then, the organization has expanded to more than 1,200 restaurants across Canada. Through its “Buy One, Give One” model, the social enterprise has provided more than 3.8 million meals since its inception. “In Invermere, we are hoping to provide 1,200 meals annually and 1,250,000 meals across Canada. We also

hope that this partnership will encourage local restaurants to join our program, thus increasing the impact in the community,” explained Lauren Hennessy, Vancouver community leader coach for Mealshare. Invermere residents can purchase a Mealshare menu item at A&W in Invermere and one meal will be donated to youth struggling with hunger. “The Mealshare items purchased at the A&W in Invermere will provide support locally to the Family Dynamix Association and to Save the Children internationally. Whenever a Mealshare item is purchased at a participating restaurant, the restaurant donates $1,” said Hennessy. On Mealshare Mondays, customers can purchase the cheddar bacon uncle burger combo, and a meal will be provided for a young person in need through Mealshare. Every other day of the week, customers can “Make it a Mealshare” by adding $1 to their order. Whenever customers make this donation, one meal is provided to a youth in need through MealShare. For more information about Mealshare or to join their mission, visit mealshare.ca.

Kyla Lam is the new interim Chair of the CVMF Submitted by Caitlin Hall-Sharp Executive Director The Columbia Valley Community Foundation has a new interim Chair. Kyla Lam had taken over this role as of mid-January. Lam has been on the Board of Directors since 2019, most recently serving as Treasurer. Lam owns an accounting practice in Invermere and her work experience includes roles Kyla Lam, the new intereim chair for the Columbia Valley Photo submitted in both public practice Community Foundation. and industry. Over the Board of Directors I would like to personlast 20 years, she has volunteered for varally thank Dean for all his volunteer work ious organizations, often in a leadership with the Foundation,” says Lam. “I have role. Kyla and her husband settled in the some big shoes to fill and I look forward Columbia Valley in 2012 and welcomed continuing the work that Dean was a part their son in 2015. of creating” continued Lam. Lam replaces Dean Midyette, who The Columbia Valley Community joined the board in 2015, most recentFoundation is a charitable organization, ly serving as Chair since 2019. During that provides leadership in supporting inMidyette’s time on the board, he was vestments in people, ideas and activities in involved in many different committees, all communities in the Columbia Valley most significantly he was instrumental through inspired philanthropy. The Founin raising the profile of the Foundation. dation continues to support non- prof“Dean’s contributions to the Foundation its and individuals with many different and the Columbia Valley over many years granting opportunities. www.valleyfounis certainly appreciated, on behalf the dation.ca

By Steve Hubrecht steve@columbiavalleypioneer.com The run of Columbia Valley resident Emily Blackmore, who the Pioneer reported on a few weeks ago, in a global competition to end up as the next cover model for Inked, one of the biggest tattoo publications in the world, came to an end at the quarterfinal stage. When the Pioneer last reported on Blackmore in the Feb. 11 edition, she was in the third tier of the competition. She passed that stage of the contest with flying colours, and then went on to win her group in the fourth tier of the competition, sending her on to the quarterfinals (which is the fifth round of the contest). Submitted photo of Emily Blackmore Blackmore had a strong some other tattoo companies and tatshowing in the quarterfinals, coming fifth (out of 30 women) too magazines have been in touch with in her quarterfinal group, but it was not her in the wake of the competition, quite enough for her to move on the asking her to model for their Instagram and social media pages. semifinal tier. “I am glad I did it. It definitely Still, Blackmore is happy with brought me out of the result. “It was my comfort zone, pretty good, it was “It was a lot of fun and it’s and got me postawesome to make it opened some doors for me...I am that far,” Blackmore glad I did it. It definitely brought ing some things on Instagram and told the Pioneer, me out of my comfort zone.” social media that adding there are litI thought I would erally thousands of Emily Blackmore, never post,” said women in the comWilmer resident Blackmore. petition and only She expressed about one per cent make it to the quarterfinals. “There are a huge ‘thank you’ to everybody who women who have been entering this supported her and voted for her during contest every year from quite a few the weeks-long online competition. “There’s more to come, stay tuned,” years and never made it to the quarterfinals, so for me to get there on my first said Blackmore. “I’m going to be pushing forward with the tattoo modelling try is great.” “It was a lot of fun and it’s opened and with social media.” some doors for me,” she said, adding

Recreation Site Maintenance Contract: Kootenay & White River Recreation Sites and Trails BC is seeking a contractor to maintain 10 recreation sites along the Kootenay and White Rivers in the Rocky Mountain North recreation district. The operating season is May to September. The contract is for one year, with option to renew annually for three years. Duties include painting and minor repairs to recreation infrastructure, removal of litter, cleaning of outhouses, removal of deadfall on access roads, ensuring signage is up to date, reporting safety or other maintenance issues, and some miscellaneous tasks as discussed with the Recreation Officer. For the Invitation to Tender package and more information, please visit BC Bid (document no. RC22258003) or contact Kelsey.Knoll@gov.bc.ca.

16 • The Columbia Valley Pioneer

FAITH

Gazing out the window

LAKE WINDERMERE ALLIANCE CHURCH

By Murray Wittke Valley christian assembly

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

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

h e Pioneer ca T n

take you r do llar With 4,400 copies far th in circulation each week, er

Phone: (250) 341-6299 info@columbiavalleypioneer.com N E W S PA P E R

I have a confession to make. I’ve been looking through other people’s windows. Recently, I discovered “Window-Swap,” a quarantine inspired internet site with thousands of ten-minute videos of views from windows all over the world. In these unsettled times, I find the day-to-day sights and sounds outside some stranger’s window quite calming. But staring at a screen has its limits. When my soul desperately longs for peace, I pull up a chair and gaze out my own window in Radium. Most days, I don’t look at anything in particular. I concentrate on breathing and let the gaze of my soul lazily drift and swirl through memories, feelings, prayers, songs and daydreams. Sometimes I journey through the past, weighing decisions and grieving losses. Other times I envision the future, crafting plans and anticipating

challenges. Wherever my thoughts wander, eventually, I arrive in the stillness and silence of God’s presence. There, gazing upon God, I know all will be well! Stillness and silence are essential for our spiritual health. Each of us needs time in our day where we’re free from all the internal lists and expectations; the relentless consumption of information, and the constantly distracting beeps, bells and ringers demanding our attention. We need times and spaces of stillness and silence where we simply stop, look and listen. Psalm 46 addresses those living in dangerous and difficult days. In V10 God says, “Be still and take a long, loving look at me, your God, far above everything!” In the stillness and silence of God’s presence, we discover the One who’s always with us, a shelter and strength always ready to help when we need him. Feeling overwhelmed? Seek the peace stillness provides. Just outside my window there’s a Baily Schubert Cherry tree. Last year I watched its barren branches bud, blossom and bear cherries that the birds appreciated all fall. All winter, the tree has stood stark naked. Now it’s March. The snow is melting and I’m watching for the new life that I know will return. All is well! God is with us! I’m convinced! I’ve been gazing out the window.

St. Patrick’s Day Tea is back erate income and provide the care needed to raise another family. The Stephen Lewis Foundation (SLF) funds grass The Valley GoGo Sisters, a group of local grand- roots, community-based organizations in 15 countries. mothers, were unable to hold their annual St. Patrick’s The organization operates on a social justice model, treatDay Tea last March but are determined to resume their ing African Grandmothers as equal partners, with respect, trust and empowerment. long-standing tradition Many projects supported by with a new twist. This year SLF begin with satisfying we encourage you to orbasic needs of food, shelder ahead and have a Tea ter, income and grandkids delivered to your door on attending school, but the March 17. “Tea for Two emotional needs from the – or just for you” includes eight pieces of hometrauma of the AIDS pandemic are addressed next, baked sweet treats, tea and and the final step is the deflowers, for a total cost of velopment of advocacy to $25. The deadline for orbetter their own conditions dering is March 12, and and the conditions of other a maximum of 50 orders grandmothers. will be accepted. For more information All proceeds go to the or to place an order, please Stephen Lewis Foundation, Grandmothers camSubmitted photo of the Valley GoGo Sisters contact Luana Gillies at 250 342-9600 or by email at paign, to directly support African grandmothers who are caring for large families of lu.gillies@telus.net or Sherry Dewey at 250 342-9733 or grandchildren, orphaned by HIV/AIDS. These women by email sherrydewey56@gmail.com have watched their own children die, and now must genSubmitted by Luana Gillies Valley GoGo Sisters

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your message is resonating with residents and visitors alike.

March, 4, 2021

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...Continued from “Whiteswan” page 3 These large holes might have be drilled for fish traps which aren’t legal, according to Champagne. What is alarming, in addition to potentially illegal practice, is that these giant holes are not marked with a bright flag or even a branch in order to make their presence known. When night falls, and the temperature cools down, a thin layer of ice forms over the hole;

add a little snow that covers it and here’s a well-hidden trap ready to catch the unaware. Champagne is advising others to practice safe fishing and make it clear when you create a hole in the ice. Keep your children close by, and carry a knife to help you get out of the water when travelling on a frozen lake. For your safety and the safety of others, think twice before leaving a wide-open hole in the ice.