Columbia Valley Pioneer, March 11, 2021

March 11, 2021 Vol. 18/Issue 10

The Columbia Valley Pioneer • 1

Your Weekly Source for News and Events

March 11, 2021

The Columbia Valley

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Christina Lustenberger and Ian McIntosh skied the east face of Mt. Nelson on March 4 for the first time in human history!

Read the full story on page 3 and 8.

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2 • The Columbia Valley Pioneer

March 11, 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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HIGHLIGHTS The Shuswap Indian Band completed renovations to their administration offices in January, and is designed to house all of the staff, including Territorial Operations.

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While snow is disappearing in the Valley bottom, it’s holding well at higher elevations. Columbia Valley Greenways Trail Alliance received $25,000 from Columbia Basin Trust’s Trail Enhancement Grants to improve and extend the multi-use Monument Spine Trail near Panorama, while Summit Trail Makers Society will be able to enhance trails to mitigate environmental factors and improve safety for hikers with $14,525 as part of their Invermere Trail Repairs project.

Over the last ten months, the real estate market throughout the Kootenays has been heating up - and the Columbia Valley is even hotter. Rising prices and reduced inventory will likely mean construction activity will increase significantly this year as the temperatures rise.

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With the warm weather last week, ice on Columbia Lake is melting quickly, and can be seen from the headwaters of the Columbia River.

Submitted by Ryan Watmough

March 11, 2021

The Columbia Valley Pioneer • 3

VALLEY NEWS Nailing the big one

Two Invermere pro freeskiers make history by bagging first-ever descent of Mt. Nelson’s east face Submitted by James Rose Special to the Pioneer On March 4, Christina Lustenberger and Ian McIntosh skied a near vertical line down the east face of Mt. Nelson.

A first ever descent.

I first heard about it from my music pal Tryg Strand.

Now, we usually talk music since we jam together once, twice per week. He was over Wednesday night and wow, the demo he showed me of a song he wrote… Anyway, Tryg messaged me yesterday at 11 a.m.: “Christina Lustenberger and Ian McIntosh just did first descent of Mt. Nelson this morning! How crazy is that?”

Crazy.

It’s fitting that the ones to do it both grew up in Invermere. And word sure travels fast in a small town. Tryg’s dad was up at Panorama skiing with Ian’s dad and they were hanging out at Lusti’s.

Not Mountain Outfitters. Lusti’s.

At Panorama Mountain Resort, the ski shop forever was known as Lusti’s and far as I’m concerned, still is. Lusti handed the managerial reigns over to Pontus Carlsson who I must say really is doing a great job. Good golfer too. But still, I think of that corner of Pan- Photo by Bruno Long orama as Lusti’s.

That’s because Christina’s dad Peter ran the rental/ tuning side of the business and his wife Jane (Christina’s mom) ran the cafe side. Lusti’s is a legendary place. Lusti himself is a legendary guy. As a kid growing up in the valley, I spent all of my winter weekends at Pano as a Windermere Valley Ski Clubber. And nearly all of those weekends involved going to Lusti’s for a hot chocolate (before I started drinking coffee), and a bowl of soup.

Jane’s tomato bisque was my all-time favourite and her fresh croissants…

And for every core shot fixed, pole basket lost, new edge set, binding mounted… it was over to Peter’s half.

And on the shop’s walls were signed starting bibs from past World Cup events and photos signed by Canadian ski racers like Thomas Grandi and Carey Mullen.

Peter and Jane were and are major boosters for ski racing in the Columbia Valley. Before immigrating to Canada

from Switzerland, I think Peter even skied world cup… if not world cup, then it was pretty far up in power-house Swiss ski racing…

And five years ago when I was back ski coaching with Team Panorama, naturally it was over to Lusti’s for lunch with the rest of the coaches, Mark and Sigrid and Shane and Shelley…

And did you hear? Earlier this week, the BC government awarded a $850,000 grant to Panorama’s National Alpine Training Centre. In the press release, it said: “Panorama is known as one of the world’s premier racing and training venues attracting athletes from across Canada,

USA, Europe to the Kootenay Rockies region.”

Peter and Jane and many other locals are to thank for helping to create and sustain this reputation.

As most know, Christina used to be a world cup ski racer. She went to the Torino Olympics. But then she was forced to quit due to multiple knee injuries. Christina was one of those racers that either won or blew out of the course. All or nothing, high risk, high reward. Several years older than me, she was a ski racing idol to my teammates and I as we moved up the ranks.

After Christina retired from pro ski racing, with ease it seemed she transitioned to being an off-piste pro. A freeskier. Now she lives in Revelstoke (naturally), is married, is an ACMG guide and… is doing things like sending it down Mt. Nelson for chrissake.

I remember sitting in Aspen’s Wheeler Opera House, Fall 2019. It was the big ski movie premiere night. Now

I’m not one to really ever watch ski movies. For whatever reason, they just don’t do it for me… but on this night… many of the skiers I KNEW! Nick McNutt, Dane Tudor, Christina, Stan Rey, Ian McIntosh… Dane and Stan are closer to my age. I was in many ski races with those guys… and many of the locations were in the Kootenays!

I couldn’t help but think… what am I doing here?

So Peter and Jane were in the ski shop waiting to hear from their daughter. Needless to say, they got the message they hoped for. So Tryg’s dad tells Tryg who tells me.

I had just come back to my place after dropping off at moms’ house tick meds for her dog. As I was leaving her driveway, we heard the thunder of a chopper overhead flying east toward the valley from Mt. Nelson.

Mom asked me if it was a STARS chopper, and I said no… wasn’t the right colour. When I heard from Tryg, I immediately told mom and then she said… of course… the chopper was for Christina and Ian. So this morning I called Christina to hear the story...

It’s a peak she’s dreamed of skiing her whole life. Same with Ian. Growing up, you have a view of Mt. Nelson from the valley floor, from the living room, the classroom, from over the shoulder as you slowly make your way up Panorama on the old two seater blue chair since replaced. It stares down at you as you wait patiently in the start-gate before racing down Fritz’ or Old Timer. Towering Mt. Nelson at 10,869 ft. is always just… there.

“Without much travel or filming this year, my focus was on exploring my backyard,” Christina said. “I wanted to put my dream of skiing Mt. Nelson into action.” She thinks it was about four years ago that she began seriously discussing it with Ian. They are both on Team North Face and have come full circle in their skiing careers. Ian, three years older than Christina, left ski racing at a much earlier age and dove right into big mountain skiing. “Ian is such a dialled in, confident skier.” A key comrade-inarms to ski a Mt. Nelson.

For the past week and a half, they were busy scoping it out. The telescopes were out. They did a fixed wing fly over. They even skied Mt. Peter which is nearby to Mt. Nelson to get a feel for the snowpack. A few days ago,

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4 • The Columbia Valley Pioneer

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RCMP Report Submitted by Sgt. Darren Kakuno Detachment Commander Columbia Valley RCMP This past week March 1 through March 7, the Columbia Valley RCMP responded to 73 calls for service. The following is a summary of some of the files our officers responded to.

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

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.

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March 11, 2021

•On Thursday, March 4, a resident on 10 St. in Invermere reported someone had rummaged through her unlocked vehicle sometime overnight. Missing from the vehicle was a set of keys and change.

•On Friday, March 5, at about 11 a.m., an officer observed an adult male at a property on Black Forest Trail in Invermere who was bound by conditions not to be in Invermere. The male was arrested for breaching his court-ordered conditions and remanded in custody until he could appear before a judge.

•On Friday, March 5, at about 6:30 p.m., RCMP received a report of a possible impaired driver on Sinclair

Avenue in Windermere. An officer located the vehicle in Windermere and conducted a traffic stop. While speaking to the driver, the officer noted signs of impairment and arrested the male for impaired operation of a motor vehicle. The driver was transported to the detachment, where he complied with a breath demand and provided breath samples, which were over the legal limit. The male was held in cells until sober, then released on an Appearance Notice to attend court at a later date.

•On Saturday, March 6, at about 11 p.m.

Columbia Valley RCMP responded to a single vehicle motor vehicle incident on Toby Creek Road near Lake Lillian. The driver indicated she hit a patch of black ice and spun into the ditch. While speaking to the driver, the officer could smell an odour of liquor coming from the driver’s breath. The driver complied with a roadside breath demand and blew two “fails”. As a result, the driver received a 90-day Immediate Roadside Driving Prohibition, and her vehicle was impounded for 30-days.

Weekly Whiteway Report Spring has officially sprung, and that means we are at the end of another season! While there is still ice on the lake, the conditions are changing rapidly, and we are no longer able to continue maintaining the Whiteway.

Thank you to all the incredible volunteers, contractors, and funders who made this season possible, and an even bigger thank you to you, the community who makes it all worth it! We will see you again next year!

Please check the Toby Creek Nordic Ski Club Facebook page for all the most up-to-date trail conditions!

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March 11, 2021

The Columbia Valley Pioneer • 5

Invermere applies for flood mitigation funding Grant would cover risk assessment, flood plain mapping and mitigation planning along Toby Creek in industrial park and Athalmer

By Steve Hubrecht steve@columbiavalleypioneer.com Invermere is hoping to improve its flood control efforts in Athalmer, and is applying for grant money that would pay for risk assessment, flood plain mapping, and flood mitigation planning.

The grant application, totalling $150,000, is to the Union of British Columbia Municipalities (UBCM)’s community emergency preparedness fund, and came up for discussion at the most recent Invermere council meeting on Tuesday, Feb. 23.

Talk during the meeting frequently referenced the ice dam that created the flood of Toby Creek in the Athalmer area in winter of 2017.

“It’s pretty exciting stuff,” said Invermere planner Rory Hromadnik, outlining the application to council members. Hromadnik explained how the grant, if successful, would cover assessment, mapping and planning. “So three different phases. It’s for the influence of Toby Creek on the Athalmer lands, all the Athlamer land (by) Toby Creek on both sides of the train track.”

He proceeded to explain that “it includes re-establishing flood elevations based on climate risk and climate change modelling, mapping these elevations and setting elevation levels for our development bylaw that would set minimum elevations for foundations in the flood zone.”

The assessment, mapping and mitigation planning is just the first step in a two or three step process with UBCM, said Hromadnik, adding that without the first process, Invermere can’t apply for other funding that would cover operational measures aimed at preventing flooding, such as raising dike heights beside Toby Creek or putting in culverts on Panorama Drive.

Pioneer file photo

Pioneer file photo The ice-dam flood on the road that lies between Toby Creek and the district’s waste water treatment plant at the end of December 2016.

“I’ve been in conversation with the provincial government. There is a really strong likelihood that we are going to get this. There are a couple of big tick boxes they are looking for,” said Hromadnik, going on to explain how Invermere clearly meets some of these required criteria, including that the district badly needs to update the flooding data it currently uses (which Hromadnik noted is “Second World War era”) and that the district has actually done quite a lot of work along Toby Creek in the industrial park, to the tune of around $500,000 since the ice dam flood.

“There’s a lot of activity down there, and a lot of evidence of Toby Creek wanting to return to its original path, which is actually through our public works yard and back toward James Chabot Beach. It won’t get there, because of the tracks, but that’s where it wants to go,” said Hromadnik.

Councillor Greg Anderson noted that if the grant is successful, it would pay for 100 per cent of the cost of the assessment, mapping and mitigation planning, saying “this is a no-brainer (to support the application). Zero cost to the taxpayer. And the fact is with climate change pending, not pending but in fact continuing on, we’re going to be facing this (flooding) if we don’t do something now, and start taking action on our flood control measures down there.”

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6 • The Columbia Valley Pioneer

March 11, 2021

PERSPECTIVE

Role models for girls

Historical Lens

By Camille Aubin camille@columbiavalleypioneer.com For the past two weeks, mild temperatures have warmed the Columbia Valley. The smell of barbecue pervades the streets, people are outside taking long, sunny walks topping up on vitamin D, the lake is thawing and the trees are already starting to prepare for the upcoming summer.

While we are swapping our wool knit wear for lighter clothes, our winter coats for the little down vests and our big boots for more comfortable shoes, we ought to remember we are only in mid-March, and winter may, if it so chooses, hit us with another two to three storms, whether we like it or not! Local stores undergoing their own changes by putting away their winter products and getting out the spring one before next season knocks on our door.

Keeping in mind the theme of International Women’s Day, which is still generating media headlines this week, maybe our businesses and stores in the valley could support this movement by making better representations of women in their storefront. The giant posters of perfectly modified women in bikinis would be gone. Instead, maybe we could trade these images for natural women (not digitally altered by filters or software such as Photoshop)?

Many women like to pay special attention to their looks, their clothes and makeup. This is no problem at all! Many women will tell you that it’s an opportunity for them to exercise their creativity and bring out their personalities. Certainly there’s nothing wrong with that.

The problem comes when woman are represented only through their looks, clothes and makeup.

There is so much more to women than fashion and aesthetics, and younger girls need to be aware of this. We ought to give young girls and women the chance to have daring role models that go beyond the norms and traditional comfort zone. Let them see the infinity of possibilities that they can become.

And if women in bikinis are still a must for you, why not take the opportunity to feature a woman on a paddleboard or fishing — strong-willed, confident women actively participating in sports. If you truly feel women in bikinis are an integral part of an advertising campaign, surely it’s a reasonable compromise to at least depict them as capable athletic participants.

Helping young girls and women to feel amazing about themselves requires a better representation of women in their diversity and passions. Be part of the solution and display on your advertising boards and your storefronts women for what they are rather than only what they look like.

Two women, Helen and Phyllis Young, with a duo of two-horse teams near a barn and a shed on Toby benches above Wilmer. The barn was built in 1911.

C2104, 1928 , courtesy Windermere District Historical Society

E-bike - give it a try!

Dear Editor: In the summer of 2020 as Covid-19 was setting its sights on The Columbia Valley my wife and I were not looking forward to cabin fever. We both love the outdoors and began to think about what we could do together safely to enjoy the mountains and valleys of the area. Hence came our E-bikes. Being in our early 70’s it became increasingly difficult to manoeuvre a pedal bike up a hill. (More so for me.) We decided to invest in 2 E-bikes and have not looked back.

The bikes make it easy to scale a hill, travel for up to 60 km and go for sightseeing and picnics. They have made a huge difference in our outdoor lives.

Both bikes have pedal assist as well as a separate throttle, speedometer, battery remaining power indicator and disc brakes to mention a few amenities.

The seats are foam cushioned and adjustable, handlebars are adjustable and with the 500 watt motor there is power to spare. What a joy to be able to zip along

Legacy Trail and other locations while experiencing the outdoors.

There is a carrier over the rear wheel, lights on front and rear along with splash fenders to keep you clean if you run through a puddle. Velocity is fully controllable by you and the bikes handle easily at both low and higher speeds. With 6 levels of power assist and 7 gear selections you can climb most hills with ease. Stopping is simple with the dual disc brakes.

We do not ride our bikes off road so we do not affect any habitat. I would encourage you to check these wonderful modes of transportation out. If you buy local you will be able to obtain service if and when required and you will be supporting your local dealer. Give them a try. You won’t be disappointed.

Happy biking and sightseeing.

Perry Rose Radium Hot Springs

The Columbia Valley

CANADIAN COMMUNITY NEWSPAPER AWARD 2013

Pioneer

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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 11, 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.

We’re Hiring

Summer Students Join us May through August in one of five departments: • Broadband • Communications • Delivery of Benefits • Power Operations • Special Initiatives Apply by March 21: ourtrust.org/careers

Created by Dale Wilker Photos by Larry Halverson

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

Call for funding applications

Hoo was our little friend from last week’s front page?

Many of you were right! It is a Northern Pygmy Owl. Larry Halverson, Invermere local, shared with us some good information about this bird.

“As its name suggests, the Northern Pygmy Owl is Canada’s smallest owl, about the size of a pop can and weighs only 70 grams. But despite their small size, they are quite fierce, and will attack prey several times their own size. There are even cases where Pygmy Owls have killed domestic chickens.

This tiny owl is active during the day. They prefer the edges of open coniferous forest or mixed woodlands and they regularly perch on tops of trees - so that is a good place to look for them. March is when they will be “hooting” their high-pitched tootoo-too territorial call and by April they will have sought out old woodpecker cavities for nesting.”

We want to hear from you Email your letters to info@columbiavalleypioneer.com or visit our website at www. columbiavalleypioneer.com. Mail your letters to Box 868, Invermere, V0A 1K0, or drop them in at #8 1008-8th Avenue. Letters to the editor should be sent only to The Pioneer, and not to other publications. We do not publish open letters or third-party

letters. Letters for publication should be no longer than 400 words, and must include the writer’s address and phone numbers.

No attachments, please. Letters may be shortened for space requirements. We reserve the right to edit for space, clarity, civility and accuracy. Opinions expressed are those of the writer, not The Pioneer.

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 11, 2021

Photo by Christina Lustenberger went down the same way they came up).

To get to where they wanted to start skiing, they had From Invermere, they left at one in the morning. to rappel a few metres off the summit. Now they were in They reached the trailhead on Toby Creek Road and the arena, so to speak, at the top of their line and about started skinning at 1:45 a.m. From trailhead to the sum- to send it… “Looking down, it took my breath away,” mit, they gained 2,100 metres. It’s one thing just to do she said. “I’ll admit in the weeks before and all the years that… especially with all that gear and then some: A cou- leading up to this moment the mountain did sort of inple thirty-metre ropes, ice axes, crampons, rappel gear, all timidate me.” of it. No sherpas. I remember climbing Mt. Nelson the And what about the line itself? At its steepest, 55 desummer after I graduated from high school. I did it with grees. “It sees a lot of fluffing because it’s so steep. It’s my brother and few friends... in the summer it’s not an constantly shedding itself. So on one hand, it makes it easy hike. It’s a total grunt. But once you get to the top... safer because it’s shedding any instabilities. But as soon oh so satisfying. as you get out of the gut of the line, any questing off the The reason they went so early is because of tempera- mainline and you are skiing on sugar-coated rock.” A real tures. A stiff, stable snowconcern for them was not clippack is crucial to a safe, efping or getting hung up on any ficient ascent and descent. of that rock. “We avoided the East facing slopes get first sides and just focused on skiing light and at this time of year, the main gut of the line.” can heat up quick. Spring And then… they skied it. warming events are prime The thrill! triggers for avalanche.

At the bottom of their main Seven hours later, they line, they weren’t yet done. “We reached the summit. “On had to do a traverse over a cliff the ascent, there was little at the end. There was a band wind and the stars and the of rocks that we couldn’t ski or moon were out. The snow climb down so we had to do was stable. Once we got on another 30 metre rappel.” the south face and started And then the chopper arto climb, the sky started to rived to pick them up. “We helighten up and the peaks li’d out because by the time we start to glow. It was magic.” reached the bottom, to get to To do a ski like this, where we started our ski there there’s such a small window Christina Lustenberger and Ian McIntosh at the sum- were several big south facing of opportunity. Many things mit of Mt. Nelson.

Photo by Christina Lustenburger avalanche chutes to cross.” out of one’s control have to Christina texted mom as line up. “We were lucky. We had perfect weather, nailed soon as she was done. At 10:30 a.m., a proud (and rethe window. The snow on our line hadn’t yet sun crust- lieved) mom and dad clinked glasses of Schnapps. ed, we still had dry powder. I bet by now the same line “Ian and I went straight over to the ski shop patio we skied would be sun crusted.” And there was no wind. and hung out there for a while.” A gathering had formed This winter has been SO WINDY! of friends and family. Celebratory.

At the summit, Ian phoned his dad who was down at “Yesterday I was reminded how amazing this comthe base of Panorama with the binoculars. “I don’t think munity is. I am so proud to say I grew up here and feel my mom slept at all the night before,” Christina said so fortunate my parents instilled a passion in me for the laughing. mountains. It’s a life long gift to take with you… the And the film crew was all set. Look for this foot- pleasure of being in the mountains that didn’t start and age next fall in Teton Gravity Research’s feature ski flick. end with ski racing. In fact, I feel like my career as a skiThe film crew was set up on neighbouring Trafalgar Peak. er only started after I retired from racing. That’s when I Brodie Smith (Invermere local and ski guide) was man- found my path and found something I was meant to be aging the scene. The big camera was set up on a tripod, doing.” the drone was out, stills aplenty being taken, and a camLike ski Mt. Nelson for the first time in human hiseraman followed Christina and Ian up on their ascent (he tory. ...Continued “Nailing the big one” from page 3

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March 11, 2021

The Columbia Valley Pioneer • 9 Photo by CDC on Unsplash

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COVID-19 vaccination

By Pioneer staff info@columbiavalleypioneer.com The COVID-19 Immunization Plan is currently in phase 2, which should be completed by April 2021. The vaccine call centre is ready to receive calls from seniors born in 1941 (80+) or earlier. During this phase, approximately 400,000 people will be immunized, including seniors, Indigenous peoples and people who live and work in independent living. The vaccine will be available to anyone who wants one and meets the requirements.

You do not need to call to book an appointment if you live in independent living or senior’s supportive housing. In either case, your health authority will contact you or your housing operator and book an appointment for you or organize a mobile clinic in your area. Only seniors born before 1941 or Indigenous people born before 1956 and who don’t live in an independent residence will have to call to book a vaccine appointment over the phone.

The date of birth determines when it is possible to call. People born in 1931 (90+) or earlier or Indigenous born in 1956 (65+) or earlier can schedule an appointment during the second week of March. People born in 1936 (85+) or earlier can call from March 15, and people born in 1941 or earlier (80+) during the last week of March, from March 22.

Other priority groups will be vaccinated during this phase. Hospital staff, community general practitioners (GPs),

and medical specialists not immunized in Phase 1, vulnerable populations living and working in select congregated settings, staff in community home support, and nursing services do not need to call for an appointment. It will be scheduled through your organization.

During your call with the health authority, you will be asked for your full name, date of birth, postal code, personal health number, and contact information.

Please remember that you will never be asked for your SIN, driver’s licence number or banking information.

Two vaccines are currently available: the Pfizer and Moderna vaccines. Due to vaccine logistics and to ensure the vaccine is administered as quickly and as safely as possible, people cannot choose which vaccine they will receive.

The last two phases of the vaccination plan in B.C. will concern the general population. Phase 3 is scheduled to start in April 2021 and extend through June 2021, depending on vaccine availability.

Phase 3 will involve people aged between 79 to 60, Indigenous people aged between 64 to 45 and people aged from 69 to 16 who are clinically extremely vulnerable.

Phase 4 is planned for July to September 2021. This final phase will concern people aged 59 to 18.

The call centre is open seven days a week from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. To reach the Interior Health call 1-877-740-7747. For more information, visit gov.bc.ca/bcseniorsfirst.

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by April 8, 2021. ourtrust.org/scholarship

Neil Muth enjoyed skiing at the Basin’s many ski hills.

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

SHUTTER BUGS WeIf you have a snapshot to share, email info@columbiavalleypioneer.com WELCOME

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10 • The Columbia Valley Pioneer

March 11, 2021

AshFireWear moves toward safety certification

By Breanne Massey Local Journalism Initiative Reporter A 34-year-old Ktunaxa entrepreneur has taken the next step toward certifying her apparel for firefighters in Canada.

Ashley O’Neil, owner of AshFireWear, recently sent a sample of the biodegradable fabric for her newest product line to the University of Alberta (U of A) for quality assurance and testing.

“We’re in the testing phase right now,” said O’Neil. “I had my fabric sent to the U of A. It goes through all kinds of tests, they stretch it, they burn it — all kinds of things — to see how much heat it can take.”

The fabric from her line is being used on clothing and face-masks for firefighters and contract work crews, and O’Neil hopes to meet the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) standards after being certified.

“We only sent seven-to-eight metres of testing,” explained O’Neil by phone. “This whole testing phase, we knew it was going to happen, but we didn’t know how expensive it was going to be.”

Now, O’Neil and AshFireWear’s newest hire are currently working toward assembling some garments for additional testing.

“We’re sewing three sets of garments, and they (U of A) put it on dummies with sensors to test the (fabric’s) ability and the patterns (from our line). Then, they put it on video and send it to us.”

She says the quality assurance and safety testing is expected to take between six-toeight weeks.

O’Neil remains optimistic about launching the AshFireWear product line by the spring of 2021. However, there have been some unexpected costs associated with starting up a business catering to firefighters and having the desired safety certification to boot.

“I didn’t realize how expensive it was getting into the fire world,” she explained.

“You can make a lot of money but you have to follow the NFPA standards.”

Currently, O’Neil has spent $50,000 on her own to get AshFireWear up and running. Now, she’s looking for a prospective investor or a grant that may be able to help cover the cost of $15,000 for safety checks, manufacturing and operations that support the NFPA’s codes and standards for the firefighting and forestry industry.

For more information about AshFireWear, contact O’Neil through the Ktunaxa Ready website at: https:// ktunaxaready.com/listings/listing/ashfirewear/

Firefighting training available

By Breanne Massey Local Journalism Initiative Reporter Stay safe, and “make a difference” through certified training programs that aim to assist contract fire crews with various safety certification programs.

Ashley O’Neil and Sean O’Neill are currently recruiting First Nations, Métis and Inuit firefighters to complete training for firefighting and forestry.

“We’re hoping to do some training in the Columbia Valley this April or May,” said O’Neil, adding the schedule and the delivery of the programs are dependent on the success of the COVID-19 vaccination program offered to those with status cards on-reserves.

There are currently 27 programs available through O’Neill Consulting Ltd., including topics such as Bear Aware, Helicopter Safety, BC Hydro Green Card Certification, Introduction to Tree Species of B.C., Emergency Response Plans, Operational Fuel Management, Helicopter Safety and much more.

With the provincial safety restrictions in-place for the COVID-19 pandemic, the majority of training courses that are available will begin with an online component through Zoom and then an in-person training session will be scheduled when safe to do so.

O’Neill was unavailable for comment before the Pioneer went to press.

The required gear and safety equipment for each program will be provided to all program participants.

“To me, it’s super important because that’s what I want to do for work, but I always say it has to spark someone’s interest to do the job well,” said O’Neil. “But it’s important because there’s a lack of firefighters and we’re going through a huge climate change. Our fires are getting bigger and bigger, but our resources are getting smaller, smaller.”

A prerequisite for completing the training is to pass a physical fitness test for firefighting training.

For more information about the physical fitness training for firefighting or questions about any of the programs, contact O’Neil at 306-480-5569 or edonstarr@gmail.com with O’Neill Consulting Ltd., Wildland Firefighting and Irish Creek Training.

March 11, 2021

The Columbia Valley Pioneer • 11

Bobcat’s cameo in Edgewater Wage Subsidies for Basin Food Producers Get support to hire employees throughout the 2021 growing and harvesting season.

Photo: smcarter, Getty Images

By Breanne Massey Local Journalism Initiative Reporter After walking the floor, Edgewater Elementary School (EES) principal Darryl Turner made eye contact with an unexpected visitor through a classroom window this winter.

Along the edge of the retaining wall that surrounds the playground in the front of the primary school, a bobcat made a special cameo and locked eyes with Turner.

“I walked by the Grade 5 / 6 room and did a double-take,” he explained about the recent encounter with the wildlife surrounding the school. “I asked the students and the teacher to come and look. In hindsight, I wish I would’ve got my phone out to take a picture.”

The bobcat walked along the retaining wall, looked up and the kids and jumped down before quickly disappearing.

“It kind of reminds us about where we are,” explained Turner, noting that it’s typical to see elk, deer, eagles, chickadees, woodpeckers and occasionally bears in the Edgewater area. “It’s kind of wild.”

“It was life changing,” said Heather Tegart, EES Grade 5 / 6 teacher about the class’ once in a lifetime encounter.

With a deep respect for the lands, the plants and the animals that surround us through the Indigenous worldview, which recognizes and values all living spirits through a circular connection, the stu-

dents who witnessed the encounter found themselves searching for Debra Murray.

Murray, one of the dedicated Aboriginal Education Support Worker serving Indigenous students at EES, was quickly asked for help to interpret the meaning of such an encounter.

“The kids were like, ‘Mrs. Murray, Mrs, Murray, what does it mean?’” she explained, noting the Grade 5 / 6 students have known her from Kindergarten to present day where each individual has spent time studying the lands and the animals of the area. “It was a blessing.”

After the sighting, which took place in early-January, the snow began to fly and the Grade 2 students went outside to play and found feathers and footprints outside of the school.

“I think the feathers were probably from a wild turkey,” explained Murray.

“Bobcats typically pluck out the feathers and drag the carcasses (of wild birds).”

Turner went outside to examine the feathers and the footprints after the students reported the find.

“When it snows over the weekend, it’s good pickin’ for him,” said Murray, noting that with the exception of this encounter, the bobcat is typically not around during the school days. “Frankly, I think the bobcat was just as surprised as the kids.”

However, the bobcat has not been spotted at EES since the encounter and the administration is monitoring the situation closely.

Applications open March 11: ourtrust.org/fpwagesubsidy

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

KNC acquires properties

By Breanne Massey Local Journalism Initiative Reporter Due to the continued growth at the Ktunaxa Nation Council (KNC), the decision to acquire two new properties in the traditional Ktunaxa territory between Cranbrook and Castlegar has been made.

On March 3, the KNC announced the decision to continuously improve and develop the presence of the Ktunaxa in the East Kootenay region traditionally known as –a·kisk ´aq‰i–it.

“It was important to the Ktunaxa Nation to re-establish our presence in the West Kootenays,” said Shawna Janiver, KNC chief administrative officer in a recent press release. “Our purchase of the building at 1444 Columbia Ave in Kiksi łuk, or Castlegar, is but just one step

in this process.”

“When the Ktunaxa Nation Council purchased the Tembec Building in Cranbrook in 2012, we believed we would never run out of office space,” Janvier added in the press release. “With the substantial growth the KNC has undergone in the last few years however, it was clear that more office and meeting spaces would be needed and the decision was made to purchase the building at 32 9th Avenue South in Cranbrook. We look forward to having a larger presence in the Cranbrook downtown core.”

The KNC expects to use the newly acquired properties to host subsidiary businesses from the band, as well as to bring the presence of Ktunaxa Enterprises Limited to Castlegar in the near future.

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12 • The Columbia Valley Pioneer

March 11, 2021

are Ken and Debra Fisher. Her grandparents are Bernice and Murray Fisher and Streak and Evelyn McGilvery. She is the sister to Shawna Weaver and Scott Fisher and a proud Metis woman. She is the proud wife of Bert Bodry and bonus mom to three beautiful In order to celebrate International Women’s Day, we, the pioneer team, have decid- young women. Fisher is currently the President of the Columbia Valley Metis Chartered ed to reach some leading and inspiring women in our community to ask them some Community, which is a volunteer position and one that she is honored to hold. She is questions relating to this day of celebration and perspective. also one of two Aboriginal Education Support Workers at David Thompson Secondary.

Cassidy Gray is a member of the Canadian National Ski Team’s NextGen Program. She would have never thought she would end up working in the place she struggled in She loves to do anything in the mountains from skiing, biking, and hiking. I also love so much. That said, she also wants to be the person at the school that she needed to be to do CrossFit as part of my training and also because successful (Aileen McMaster & Maria McKay). Her goal it is very fun! is to emulate them in this role.

Clara Reinhardt has lived in Radium Hot Springs Rhiannon Tutty is a Financial Advisor with Sun Life since 2005 after moving around Western Canada for Financial and owns and operates Tutty Financial after tak25 years. Her husband and she were not typical as ing over the business from her father, who happily retired they had no ties or connection to the Valley other six years ago. Prior to joining Sun Life, she ran her own than it reminded them of where they started their successful bookkeeping business for 12 years. Today she lives together in the Yukon in 1979! After two terms considers herself a financial coach and an integral part of as Councillor, Reinhardt is in her second four-year her client’s wealth team, helping them put strategies in term as Mayor. After “bending the learning curve”, place to reach their goals. In her years as an advisor, Tutty she took on new challenges as Vice-Chair of RDEK has earned numerous awards, including three-time memfor two years, current Chair of the Ktunaxa Kinbasbership to the Million Dollar Round Table (MDRT), ket Local Government Treaty Advisory Committee, which is the pinnacle of achievement for an advisor in the President of Association of Kootenay Boundary Local financial services industry. Tutty is the proud mother of Governments and a variety of Committee appointfour, and she and her husband Colin have chosen Inverments. She loves being outside recreating and workmere as the base for their family to live in and give back ing in all seasons except rainy, when she moves inside to. They enjoy all the Valley has to offer, especially cycling to read, do Jigsaw and Crossword puzzles, and stay around our amazing mountains. She totally believes in the connected with friends and family across the world. small-town mindset here in the Columbia Valley and is Courtney Hoffos is an athlete on the Canadian committed to volunteering within our community which Ski Cross Team as well as a business student at the she has been doing for many years.

University of Calgary. She grew up in Windermere Christina Lustenberger was born and raised in Inand always loved being involved in sports. vermere. She grew up on the slopes of Panorama MounBorn in England and immigrating in 1967 to tain Resort, skiing fast and carving turns with the WindPhoto of Cassidy Gray by GEPA Canada at the age of five with her parents and four ermere valley ski club. Lustenberger ski raced for the siblings, Susan Clovechock was raised to beCanadian alpine ski team achieving top ten lieve in herself, work hard and work smart. in the World Cup and competing in the 2006 Submitted photo of Clara Reinhardt Clovechock has held leadership positions Torino Olympics. After retiring from ski racwith national corporations and nonprofit ing, she found her true passion and started organizations across Canada. Clovechock’s to pursue backcountry skiing. Lustenberger career has focused on sales, marketing, leadnow live in Revelstoke B.C., working as a ership development and work process improfessional skier and ski guide! provement always with supporting people to succeed as her primary motivation. Prior to Who are the women who inspire you? being elected in 2018 as RDEK Area F DiWhy? rector, she was the executive director for the Gray: I have been very fortunate to have Columbia Valley Chamber of Commerce, a a lot of empowering women to look up to. position that she left to give her full attention It ranges from a lot of my sports idols like to serving the people of RDEK Area F. At the Lindsey Vonn to my current teammates, my age of 50, Clovechock married the love of coaches and teachers, and of course my famher life, Doug Clovechok. She is the proud ily that is very well populated with inspiring step Mom to three amazing young adults women. The most inspiring things that all and is very blessed to have six grandchildren. these women do it promote authenticity and Cooking, walking with their dog Charlie, skiing and learning to grow a vegetable gar- encourage you to be yourself and celebrate who you are. den and hanging out with Doug are all among the many things that Susan loves to do besides her work, which she is very passionate about.

Continued on page 13...

Monica Fisher was born and raised in Invermere, as was her mother. Her parents

By Pioneer staff info@columbiavalleypioneer.com

March 11, 2021

The Columbia Valley Pioneer • 13

Are there any assumptions Submitted photo of Susan Clovechok about women that you would like to Reinhardt: There are many! First would be my change? mother, who lost her father in WW2 and worked for Gray: I want every woman to farm families as her widowed mother couldn’t support know that no one thing should emher four daughters. When my Oma decided to immigrate power her. Find what you love and to Alberta from Germany, Mom, with no English, 16 do it unapologetically. There are no years-old, had to go to work so that her sisters could go to rules to what should empower you, so school. She married, raised four children, taught herself whether it be sports, makeup, acting, English, later in life learned to type and took accounting art, fitness, or anything else, don’t feel courses so that she could again work to help Dad to sup- like you need to fit in any sort of mold port us so that we could live on a farm. The most amazing that people give you. Our differences thing is that she never lost her sense of humor and joy are what should be embraced and celin life. She is now a spry octogenarian and not taking ebrated. care of anyone but herself for the first time in her life!

Reinhardt: I think that the main Another person who comes to mind is a former manager thing I struggle with is the assumption (and close friend) who taught me critical thinking. She is that all women think alike. If there is a late to the realization as I had three children by the time creative, has vision, is thoughtful and brilliant, and yet, token woman on a team, she will speak grounded. She was one of the first colleagues who called for us all. This is ridiculous! As if one man could speak I was 23, my husband worked shift work and travelled me out when I hadn’t done my homework! Some were for all men or one Indigenous person could speak for all for work, and I was left alone often enough in small reintimidated by her, but I thrived on the challenge. Why? First Nations. In 1974, the RCMP hired the first female mote communities that I wasn’t sure I was having fun.

Hoffos: There are a lot of women who have inspired Mounties after 100 years of believing that this was a male Now that I am a grandmother, I recognize how blessed me at different points in my life, but someone that always profession. Interestingly, around 2006 the RCMP Veter- I was to have been home with my children. It was also stood out to me was Christina Lustenburger because of ans initiated a program to recognize the “Unpaid Second fortunate that I was raised rural and thrived on being a her true passion for skiing as well as coming from the Man” which celebrated the wives of Mounties who had homemaker!

Hoffos: Something I like about being a woman is Valley. I admire how she can do what she loves for a living supported their husbands for decades, in northern and and she is able to do it because she made it happen for remote locations where the men worked alone and there how complex and resilient we are. I enjoy the ‘girly’ asherself. was no backup. Well before there were official female pects like expressing myself with fashion or makeup, but Mounties, these wives searched prison- I also love to push myself in the gym and embrace the ers, answered phones and radios, guard- grind. Being a woman in sport, I feel like I am already ed prisoners, took complaints etc. Due to breaking social norms and feel empowered by that.

Clovechok: So many reasons! Many of the shoes, and our posting in Old Crow, YT, I am one of the younger recipients of this award and I love I am genetically disposed to being a multi-tasker, I one of two in the Columbia Valley, along cry when I get angry, which is way better than punching someone. with Trudy Veres of Edgewater.

Fisher: We are life-givers (if we can or choose). I canHoffos: Men may be built bigger, stronger or faster, but women have just as not, but I choose. I have three smart, strong and amazing much work ethic. Something that always bonus daughters, I assist in raising my niece, I am a foster stuck with me is that no one else can tell parent, and I work at the high school. I may not give YOU how hard YOU work, no matter life, but I contribute to it. I feel we are connected to all things; our “cycle” is a ceremony, which happens every what your gender or situation is.

Clovechok: Women are the fairer sex 28 days (ish), we synchronize with other women, we are –the origins of this phase were intended connected to the moon cycle and the universe. I love that to be complimentary, but overtime, its we can nurture many, care for and build people up while original meaning has been lost, and the still maintaining our own personal power.

Photo of Courtney Hoffos by GEPA Tutty: Interesting you ask for this! It was actually a translation became not about our appeal but suggested we are the “weaker sex”. topic at our dinner table a few weeks ago - what do you Clovechok: I am inspired by women who define suc- Nothing could be further from the truth. There are weak appreciate about being your gender? I like the combinacess in their own terms. Some of those women include: men and there are weak women. Our chromosomes do tion that I am able to maintain. That I am the Momand all the hugs and love that comes with that, combined My mother, who as a 35-year-old wife and mother of five not determine our strength, intelligence or ability. left her family, friends, and successful business that she Fisher: When I was younger, I really struggled with with an ability to be strong and I do not mean strength of and my Dad owned to immigrate to Canada so that her my identity because I did not fit a “stereotype” of what body, but rather the fact that I can multitask, running a kids could have greater opportunities. She was fearless, women are “supposed to be”. I was a bit of a tomboy successful business, helping with homework and working smart, articulate, hardworking, and fiercely committed growing up. I was friends with “the boys” and people hard, without loosing the softer feminine side. I like that to her family and our success. My dear friend Steffany made assumptions about me based on my looks and ac- contradiction we get to be.

Lustenberger: Being underrated and totally blowing Hanlen, the first non-athletic coach to be certified as an tivities without really knowing who I was. It is an unOlympic coach in the 2006 Torino Olympics, always tells fair assumption that woman should be people pleasers that assumption up! me the truth and challenges me to live my life to my or have to conform to make someone else happy. We as What barriers have you faced, as a woman, in highest potential. My granddaughters inspire me! I want women are powerful, strong and can choose to do anybecoming successful in your field? to demonstrate to them that as women, we can do any- thing that makes us happy. If someone does not like it, Gray: There is a lot of judgment around body thing that we set our hearts and minds to and still stay I feel they can move on. Build your community around image, which is something most athletes struggle with as true to ourselves. you with like-minded individuals that build you up. As Fisher: My grandmother, Evelyn McGilvery and my long as you are not breaking the law, hurting anyone and young girls.

Reinhardt: Honestly, very few. I did learn about mother, Debra Fisher. They are proud Aboriginal women doing what is right, you do you.

20 years ago that a male who was doing the same job as who are independent, strong, and passionate. They live Tutty: I find it unbelievably frustrating every time I me, with less seniority, was making more. That didn’t sit life by their morals and values and do what is right. watch, read or listen to an interview with a woman who Tutty: Women helping women is a passion of mine. is a CEO, or a business owner, or accomplished in her well, especially when a female Manager told me that he Therefore, I am inspired by others that feel the same way. field that they always ask the question: How do you find had to support himself while I had a husband working Regardless of the topic - only someone who has walked in work-life balance? For some reason, this question is rarely as well. Although I was very angry, I loved my job and your shoes can really understand your journey. Although asked to the male counterpart. The fact that this is still carried on. Running for office, I had a great support men can empathize and support you, I truly believe that something that is pushed on women as part of their agen- group of friends and neighbors of all ages and genders.

I am also fortunate that I married a 1980’s man there is amazing power in women supporting women be- da and responsibility is ridiculous. who thought being a parent included childcare, cookcause we understand each other.

Lustenburger: Hilaree Nelson professional ski What do you like the most about being a woman? ing, cleaning etc. This made it much easier to follow mountaineer and TNF teammate. She’s one of the most Gray: I love the community it comes with. There is a some of my interests while the children were younger. badass skiers in the world. lot that can be said about Girl Power.

Continued on page 14...

Reinhardt: I love being a Mother. I think I came ...Continued “Women” from page 12

14 • The Columbia Valley Pioneer

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March 11, 2021 Continued “Women” from page 13

Tutty: I will share an anecdote to answer this one. I was invited to a corporate event earlier in my career and the majority of my peers, regardless of whether they were women or men, introduced themselves to my husband on the assumption that HE was the advisor. There is a public perception of my industry that I do have to intentionally counter: I am not going to sit on the opposite side of the meeting and talk above you, tell you what to do, nor patronize you, or make you feel ignorant. I believe in working with my clients, listening to their goals, helping and teaching, rather than telling.

Clovechok: There is no question that I have faced sexual harassment and the “old boy network”, fear of me showing up my male colleagues and women competing with other women rather than being supportive of each other.

Fisher: Balancing societal expectations and my own expectations. Going against the grain and doing things my own way. Not only am I a woman, I also have learning disabilities, ADHD, and I am Aboriginal.

All of these are things I am proud of, but society could view them as a barrier. My What do you think “struggles” are what make is the biggest issue facing me successful; I know women these days in your what it takes to work hard field? and overcome hardships Gray: It is really easy for and low expectations and people to discredit women’s that gives me drive. I have accomplishments simply beworked in many differcause they are women, which ent fields and have been is tough because it overlooks successful in them, but my all the work and time put work has not been without into their accomplishments. difficulties. I have heard Reinhard: Lack of conthings like “I can’t take difidence, thinking that they rection from a woman” or have to work in the tradi“you can’t do that” which tional “old school” ways. It is Submitted photo of Rhiannon Tutty has been difficult, but it becoming clear that women motivates me to prove peoare supporting each other to ple wrong and show others a different way. work our own way, which is often collaboratively and in Tutty: I have not faced barriers per se, and actually a conciliatory fashion, is the path to the future. feel that being a woman is an asset to what I do. With Hoffos: There is a lack of demand for women’s my own strengths being in analytics and numbers, I am sports compared to men’s. This has made a lot of us feel able to communicate with my male clients in a way they inferior, but with the support of teammates, coaches and can find value in what I am saying. By combining that other female athletes, we uplift each other. with my understanding of the emotional connection Clovechok: Politics is demanding of your time and that women have to finance, I am able to also provide energy, and you have to assume that every decision you knowledge in a way that also honours what is important make is scrutinized. I am very fortunate that I have had to us. a career where I have often been the only woman at the Lustenberger: I haven’t table, and I learned early on had to face many barriers that I needed to be compasjust because I’m a female. sionate, well informed, and Maybe I have, but as a support my decisions with young girl growing up ski facts. I always had to be preracing, I always compared pared to defend my position myself against the boys. with data, and as a result, I was I never felt like I was at a able to obtain the respect and disadvantage just because I trust of my colleagues regardwas a girl. So from a young less of their gender. The degree age, I didn’t put myself into of commitment required to a female only box, and I be a good politician/policy have always thought that maker/community leader can the mountains didn’t know be daunting. And it is further gender. challenged by the job insecurity; regardless of how hard How did you overcome you work or how much you these barriers? care about your community, Gray: For body image, I an election determines your had a lot of very strong and success…at least in the eyes of beautiful women to look up the public.

Submitted photo of Monica Fisher to that inspired me to believe Fisher: I feel that we have that there is no “one way” a come a long way. Yes, there woman should look. is still work to be done, but I think with our advanceClovechok: I chose not to accept them as barriers ments comes issues regarding men’s identity. We as a and fall victim to them. When faced with sexual harass- society need to work on restoring balance and equality ment, I chose a different path which every time worked for ALL gender identities. In my employment, there out to be the best decision for me long-term. When faced have been issues in being taken seriously by both clients/ with the old boys’ club, I stood strong and made my voice students or their parents because of my gender, but I feel heard by using my intellect, critical thinking skills, and that this is changing for the better. I also have 25 years integrity, and when other women were unkind and un- in the Food and Beverage Industry. There are serious fair, I leaned in to support them. I believe that all our issues with sexual harassment, sexual assault, being experiences, negative or positive, serve to create the life treated like a lesser person or even being stalked in that we want to live and the life we’re meant to live. industry. Not to mention the fact that as a server, you Fisher: Just keep swimming. I say the serenity prayer have to mentally prepare yourself to go to work and deal often. I keep kindness at the forefront of the things I do with the harassment. and I lean on my husband, parents and amazing community.

Continued on page 15...

March 11, 2021

The Columbia Valley Pioneer • 15

Continued from page 14 As a woman in a leadership role, you are faced with staffing people who do not like to take direction from you as a woman, you are paid differently and honestly are treated like a sex trade worker by customers. I have been called terrible things because I have stood my ground, said no or stood up for myself. I have also had to worry for my safety during work and after. This is still a serious issue. My true thoughts on this are that if you hurt one woman, you hurt us all. We are all someone’s daughter, mother or sister. How would you feel if someone treated your mother the way we are treated?

Tutty: I have not encountered issues in my field. But I would like to share why I am so passionate about working with my women clients.

There are a number of financial concerns that women uniquely face, and we need strategies in place that provide solutions to these challenges. Namely, there is still a wage gap, regardless if it is gender-based.

Statistically, women do not have as many working years, or are unable to progress in their career as far as their male counterpart-due to child rearing, often taking time away from work to be a caregiver and we also live longer. Adding to that, on average, women are often more conservative in their decisions. This results in women often having less financial resources, managing them conservatively, and needing them to last longer! I feel that education is key to empowering my female clients to understand what the best strategies are for them.

Lustenberger: Equal pay and getting gear that fits

and is just as good. So many companies aren’t making performance gear in small sizes — the smaller the size, the lower the performance.

Submitted photo of Christina Lustenberger On Int. Women Day, what is the most important message you want to send out to women?

Gray: Decide for yourself what empowers you and own it!

Reinhardt: Something that catches my attention pretty regularly is that our daughters and their friends take their options and opportunities for granted and aren’t really aware of how different things were even 20 years ago. I would challenge them to look at the past and continue to forge their own way into the future, knowing that their mothers and grandmothers didn’t have the same choices. There was a cigarette ad in the 70’s “You’ve come a long way, Baby!” which was promoting a lon-

ger, slimmer, cigarette designed for women. While that is thankfully no longer around, the line still speaks to me and comes up fairly often in conversations with women my age.

Hoffos: Confidence is a superpower.

Clovechok: There are many ways for you to make a difference in your community, choose the way that works best for you and aligns with your values.

Choose your friends wisely, choose people who see your strengths and will support you to be wildly successful even if your success exceeds their own. Own who you are … you are amazing and can do whatever you set your heart and mind to especially when they are aligned.

Fisher: To quote my beautiful mother: “Be Strong, Be Proud, Be You”. Hold your ground, remember we are powerful and can do anything. I am so proud to be a woman, and I am so proud to be independent, strong and successful. I am proud of how far we have come and where we are going. What we focus on grows, and all good things come with time.

Tutty: We need to stop self sabotaging and continue to lift each other up. Also, quit worrying about balance.

Just be present wherever you are. Be the best at work when you are there and give your all when you are at home. Find something for yourself that does not feel like one more thing added to your never-ending to do list.

And quit saying yes! Only say yes when you are giving your best yes, not because you think you should be able to do it all.

Lustenberger: Girl or boy, we all have to support each other.

Marriage Commissioner Notice of Proposed Capital Region Emergency Service Telecommunications Inc. (“CREST”) & Rogers Communication Inc. (“ROGERS”) Telecommunications Facility Description: As part of the public consultation process required by Innovation, Science and Economic Development Canada (ISED), CREST & ROGERS are inviting the public to comment on a proposed telecommunications facility consisting of 40.0 metre self-support tower and ancillary radio equipment in order to provide dependable emergency services, wireless data and voice communication services to parts of Saltspring Island, BC. Tower Location: PID: Coordinates:

Water Reserve (Channel Ridge Estates), Saltspring Island, BC 000-638-391 48.895018°, -123.561048°

For More Information: Contact Rogers at: Tawny Verigin c/o Cypress Land Services Agents to Rogers Communications Inc. Suite 1051, 409 Granville Street Vancouver, BC V6C 1T2 Tel: 1.855.301.1520 Email: publicconsultation@cypresslandservices.com Capital Region Emergency Service Telecommunications Inc. (“CREST”) Attn: Gord Horth Unit 110, 2944 West Shore Parkway Victoria, BC V9B 0B2 Email: ghorth@crest.ca The public is welcome to comment on the proposal by the end of the day on April 16, 2021 respect to this matter.

Islands Trust Local Planning Services 1-500 Lower Ganges Road Salt Spring Island, BC, V8K-2N8 Tel: 250-537-9144 / General email: ssiinfo@islandstrust.bc.ca

Location Map

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

CALL FOR SUBMISSIONS

BC POLICE ACT SHARE YOUR VIEWS

by Friday, April 30

The Special Committee on Reforming the Police Act wants to hear your views on policing and related systemic issues.

The Committee will review all input and invite interested participants to make presentations.

Rogers File: W2176 – North Saltspring SED - Vancouver Island District Office 1230 Government Street, Room 430 Victoria BC V8W 3M4 Tel: 250-363-3803 | Fax: 250-363-0208 Email: ic.spectrumvictoria-victoriaspectre.ic@canada.ca

Have an opinion? Email your letter to the editor to info@columbiavalleypioneer.com

For full details, visit our website or call the Parliamentary Committees Office at 250-356-2933 or toll-free 1-877-428-8337.

Special Committee on Reforming the Police Act

www.leg.bc.ca/cmt/rpa

March 11, 2021

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16 • The Columbia Valley Pioneer

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PUBLIC HEARING NOTICE – BYLAW 3038 – Bylaw Amendment – Fairmont Hot Springs

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TO PRE-REGISTER visit the Meetings page on rdek.bc.ca and choose Public Hearings & Meetings

This is Schedule A referred to in Bylaw No. 3038 cited as “Regional District of East Kootenay – Upper Columbia Valley Zoning Bylaw No. 900, 1992 – Amendment Bylaw No. 369, 2021 (Fairmont / Anderson).”

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The Regional District of East Kootenay (RDEK) Board of Directors is considering an application by Kayhay Holdings Ltd to amend the zoning designation of parts of their property which is located at 8495 Dincey Road in DrymGulch between on t Cr Radium Hot Springs and Windermere. If approved, the amendments will add available land for campground development to the area already zoned for campground use. ee k Rd Bylaw No. 3028 cited as “Regional District of East Kootenay – Upper Columbia Valley Zoning Bylaw No. 900, 1992 – Amendment Bylaw No. 368, 2020 (Dry Gulch / Kayhay Holdings Ltd)” will amend the designations of the subject lands from R-MP, Mobile Home Park Residential Zone to RES-1, Recreation Accommodation Zone.

A public hearing will be held via Zoom webinar conference: Wednesday, March 24, 2021 at 6:00 pm The Board has delegated the holding of this hearing to the Directors for Electoral Area F, Electoral Area G and the Village of Radium Hot Springs. If you believe that your interest in property is affected by the proposed Bylaw, you may prior to the hearing: • inspect the Bylaw and supporting information by requesting that an information package be emailed to you by contacting tvandewiel@rdek.bc.ca. Information packages may be requested R-MP up until Monday, March 22, 2021 at 4:30 pm; to • mail or email written submissions to the addresses shown below before Monday, March 22, 2021 at 4:30 pm; RES-1 • present verbal submissions at the public hearing.

Corporate Officer Date

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You must pre-register in order to attend and provide verbal presentations or make comments at the hearing. The deadline to register is: Monday, March 22, 2021 at 4:30 pm.

Register in advance for this webinar: https://zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_qmBDtd35Sj2jVLgpgrYfmA Please note that a question and answer period will not occur during the Zoom webinar conference. You must address any questions relating to the bylaw to the planning technician prior to the TO PRE-REGISTER visit the Meetings above date. page on rdek.bc.ca and choose SUBMISSIONS CANNOT BE ACCEPTED AFTER THE PUBLIC HEARING. Public Hearings & Meetings All submissions will form part of the public record and will be published in a meeting agenda posted online. Personal contact information such as phone and email will be removed from written submissions. Questions about the disclosure of your personal information may be referred to the Corporate Officer at 250-489-2791 or 1-888-478-7335.

This notice is not an interpretation of the Bylaw. For more information, contact Tracy Van de Wiel, Planning Technician, at 250-489-0306, toll free at 1-888-478-7335, or email tvandewiel@rdek.bc.ca.

This is Schedule A referred to in Bylaw No. 3028 cited as “Regional District of East Kootenay – Upper Columbia Valley Zoning Bylaw No. 900, 1992 – Amendment Bylaw No. 368, 2020 (Dry Gulch / Kayhay Holdings Ltd).”

Chair

Corporate Officer Date

PUBLIC HEARING NOTICE – BYLAW 3022 Bylaw Amendment – Steamboat – Jubilee Mountain Official Community Plan The Regional District of East Kootenay (RDEK) Board of Directors is considering adoption of an updated Official Community Plan for the Spur Valley, Edgewater, Brisco, Spillimacheen, Wilmer, Dry Gulch and Radium Resort area. The existing OCP, which was adopted in 2006, has been amended to include Wildfire Hazard Development Permits, Environmentally Sensitive Area Development Permits and a variety of other land use policies.

Bylaw No. 3022 is cited as “Regional District of East Kootenay – Steamboat – Jubilee Mountain Official Community Plan Bylaw No. 3022, 2021”.

A public hearing will be held via Zoom webinar conference: Thursday, March 25, 2021 at 7:00 pm The Board has delegated the holding of this hearing to the Directors for Electoral Area F, Electoral Area G and the Village of Radium Hot Springs. If you believe that your interest in property is affected by the proposed Bylaw, you may prior to the hearing: • inspect the Bylaw and supporting information by requesting that an information package be emailed to you by contacting mbates@rdek.bc.ca. Information packages may be requested up until Tuesday, March 23, 2021 at 4:30 pm; • mail or email written submissions to the addresses shown below before Tuesday, March 23, 2021 at 4:30 pm; • present verbal submissions at the public hearing.

You must pre-register in order to attend and provide verbal presentations or make comments at the hearing. The deadline to register is: Tuesday, March 23, 2021 at 4:30 pm.

Register in advance for this webinar: https://zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_F6HKpCj8RQieeDYvrCRb0w Please note that a question and answer period will not occur during the Zoom webinar conference. You must address any questions relating to the bylaw to Michele Bates prior to the above date.

SUBMISSIONS CANNOT BE ACCEPTED AFTER THE PUBLIC HEARING. All submissions will form part of the public record and will be published in a meeting agenda posted online. Personal contact information such as phone and email will be removed from written submissions. Questions about the disclosure of your personal information may be referred to the Corporate Officer at 250-489-2791 or 1-888-478-7335.

This notice is not an interpretation of the Bylaw. For more information, contact Michele Bates, Planner, at 250-489-0311, toll free at 1-888-478-7335, or email mbates@rdek.bc.ca.

TO PRE-REGISTER visit the Meetings page on rdek.bc.ca and choose Public Hearings & Meetings

19 – 24 Avenue South, Cranbrook BC V1C 3H8 | 250-489-2791 | 1-888-478-7335 | Fax: 250-489-3498 | info@rdek.bc.ca | www.rdek.bc.ca

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You must pre-register in order to attend and provide verbal presentations or make comments at the hearing. The deadline to register is Friday, March 19, 2021 at 4:30 pm.

Register in advance for this webinar: https://zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_DySrPwxCS-e7rldw7VCtJw Please note that a question and answer period will not occur during the Zoom webinar conference. You must address any questions relating to the bylaw to the development clerk prior to the above date.

SUBMISSIONS CANNOT BE ACCEPTED AFTER THE PUBLIC HEARING. All submissions will form part of the public record and will be published in a meeting agenda posted online. Personal contact information such as phone and email will be removed from written submissions. Questions about the disclosure of your personal information may be referred to the Corporate Officer at 250-489-2791 or 1-888-478-7335.

This notice is not an interpretation of the Bylaw. For more information, contact Brett Kormos, Development Clerk, at 250-489-2791 or toll-free at 1-888-478-7335 or bkormos@rdek.bc.ca.

PUBLIC HEARING NOTICE – BYLAW 3028 – Bylaw Amendment – Dry Gulch

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The Regional District of East Kootenay (RDEK) Board of Directors is considering an application by Harvey and Brenda Anderson to amend the zone designation of their property to permit an Auxiliaryn Dwelling Unit. The property is located at Lot E ag le 38 Riverview Close in Fairmont Hot Springs as shown on the attached map.

D r Bylaw No. 3038 cited as “Regional District of East Kootenay – Upper Columbia Valley Zoning Bylaw No. 900, 1992 – Amendment Bylaw No. 369, 2021 (Fairmont / Anderson)” will amend the zone designation of Lot 38, District Lot 46, Kootenay District Plan 17908 from R-1, Single Family Dwelling to R-1(C), Single Family Residential (Auxiliary Dwelling Unit).

A public hearing will be held via Zoom webinar conference: Tuesday, March 23, 2021 at 6:00 pm The Board has delegated the holding of this hearing to the Directors for Electoral Area F and Electoral Area G. If you believe that your interest in property is affected by the proposed Bylaw, you R-1 may prior to the hearing: • inspect the Bylaw and supporting information by requesting that an information package be emailed to you by contacting bkormos@rdek.bc.ca. Information packages may be requested to up until Friday, March 19, 2021 at 4:30 pm; R-1(C) • mail or email written submissions to the addresses shown below before Friday, March 19, 2021 at 4:30 pm; • present verbal submissions at the public hearing.

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Redwing Rd

March 11, 2021

The Columbia Valley Pioneer • 17

HERE TO SERVE YOU SERVICES

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18 • The Columbia Valley Pioneer

March 11, 2021

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Have an opinion? Email your letter to the editor to info@columbiavalleypioneer.com

March 11, 2021

Planting too deep

Branching out

According to a study in the USA over 20 years ago (Smiley & Booth 2000), 93 per cent of professionally Submitted by Dave planted trees were planted Meadows too deep. The depth of root Pioneer Columnist systems in landscape trees has become a major topic of concern and discussion in the green industry and has resulted in the leading cause of tree decline and deaths in Canada and the USA. The accumulation of soil around the base of the tree resulting from soil cultivation in the nursery was blamed for roots being too deep. Trees can survive, and even thrive, in the nursery with deep roots because of the high quality, forgiving soils. When transplanted to a lesser‐quality landscape site, the same tree will struggle and may not survive. Site quality is a major factor in the survival and performance of trees with deep roots.

The term most often used to describe deep roots is “planting too deep”, but this only describes one of several causes. It is not just a problem of planting in the landscape. Trees subject to construction involving grade changes can, and do, suffer from soil piled up onto the existing trunks resulting in a similar, slow decline and ultimate death years later. Deep structural roots are a better description. Structural roots are the large woody roots giving characteristic form and shape to the root system, and the depth of these roots is the real concern.

In 2004, the American Standards for Nursery Stock addressed root depth for the first time. It stated that for B&B (Balled & Burlap) trees, “soil above the root collar or flare … shall not be included in the ball depth measurement and should be removed.” Nursery production methods are only beginning to be recognized as a possible major contributor to deep structural roots, stem girdling roots (SGR’s) and poor root architecture…the three leading causes of tree decline and death.

Verifying standard nursery stock specs or determining the correct root ball depth is difficult and time consuming for professionals, never mind casual gardeners.

Working with the District of Invermere, Public Works department, we planted over 100 trees, all supplied from reputable growers over the past two years. In almost every case, structural roots were found to be between three and eight inches deep in the root balls. In every case, evergreen trees were the most affected exhibiting poor root architecture and suffering from stem girdling roots

I N

P U R S U I T

Mature Green Ash in decline due to Deep Structural Roots, from grade change of 13 inches, in Pot Hole Park.

Submitted photo

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(SGR’s).

‘Getting the roots right’ is a problem that involves every aspect of the green industry and everyone has to do their part to keep roots at the right depth. i.e., nursery growers, landscape architects, designers, and contractors, arborists and gardeners.

First, locate the structural roots in the root ball before digging. This can be done by probing with a screwdriver.

Then, remove the excess soil covering the structural roots; measure from the root collar to the bottom of the root ball or container. That should be the “true” depth of the planting hole. Dig the hole; plant the structural roots just below grade and root collar above grade, remembering to remove plastic or peat containers, any burlap fabric, strapping and wire basket, if included.

For more information, you can download a free Tree Owner’s Manual pdf guide from the US Forest Service at https://www.fs.usda.gov/Internet/FSE_DOCUMENTS/ stelprdb5368392.pdf Dave Meadows has been an ISA, Certified Arborist since 1996. Dave owned and operated Invermere Tree Care until his retirement this year. Dave also works part time for the District of Invermere, Public Works, helping with municipal tree care operations, and planting new trees for the Urban Forest.

HERE TO SERVE YOU CONCRETE

The Columbia Valley Pioneer • 19

Call NOW:

• 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

250-688-0213

Visit www.heavensbest.com for more information

TILE AND GROUT CLEANING Business: 250-342-9692

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

Cell: 250-342-1273

ptarmiganrugclean@gmail.com

New local owners take over the Station Pub Content provided by Heather McLeod The Station Pub, Invermere’s beachfront pub and restaurant, will transfer to new local ownership as of March 15, 2021, with Chris Policar and Ryan (Butter) Karl taking the reins from Justin Atterbury and Jason Powers.

The Station Pub will close for renovations on March 8, and is expected to reopen on March 26.

The restaurant’s upgraded interior and an expanded kitchen will be the first of many improvements.

As head cook and now co-owner of The Station Pub, Chris will continue “to serve the Valley with straight-up home-cooking.”He’s working on new items to add to the menu. Future dishes are still “a secret,” but he’ll keep his favourite: the steakhouse burger. “Working in this kitchen makes me happy,” Chris says. “I like to feed the Valley.”

Meanwhile, Butter will take over as The Station Pub’s new front-of-house manager, which includes training, leading and working alongside the servers and bartenders. He says: “I love this pub and I’m excited to make it even better. A fresh look, great service, the kitchen team’s amazing food and that view … I want you to walk in and it’ll feel friendly and fresh.”

The new owners have big improvements planned for The Station Pub, says Butter, but “without changing it too drastically.”

To learn more about future changes, updates and specials, visit The Station Pub’s website, Facebook page or Instagram feed.

20 • The Columbia Valley Pioneer

March 11, 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.

Oram, Claude Angus December 19, 1942 – March 5, 2021

Claude Angus Oram passed away on March 5, 2021 from advanced prostate cancer.

Claude was born in Kimberley, B.C., in the middle of a December snowstorm. He loved the town of Kimberley and helped build the ski hill and worked in the Cominco Mine in his early years. Upon graduating from Selkirk High School in 1962, he moved to Calgary to attend SAIT earning a degree in Merchandising. Claude married Raylene in 1965 and they settled in Calgary, where he worked for Mandrell Industries, Motorola and International Systcoms, before establishing his own company, Caltronics Communications in 1975. The business was focused on selling two-way radios and later expanding to satellite dishes and cell phones. He was the first cellular dealer in Calgary. As the kids got older, Claude was enticed into basketball refereeing and was a familiar face at many of the high school gyms around Calgary. Both Colin and Michelle would agree they never got any extra favours when he refereed their games! After selling the business in 2001, Claude bought a Honda Goldwing and took up driving tour bus for something to keep himself busy. He and Raylene did numerous road trips around B.C., and he was always happy to give the grandchildren a ride on the bike. On more than one occasion he would arrive on Michelle’s doorstep in Coquitlam in a 50 ft bus.

Claude and Raylene moved to the Invermere Valley in 2004 to get out of the big city, retire and be closer to his father Lloyd.

Claude became involved in volunteering for the Invermere Rockies Hockey Club and took on numerous leadership roles with the Lake Windermere District Lions Club and was the unofficial mayor of Crooked Tree Estates. In 2017 he was awarded the Lions Cubs International Foundations Melvin Jones Fellow Award for dedicated humanitarian services.

Claude lived life to the fullest, always wanting to be busy or learning something new. He enjoyed many hobbies throughout his life from ham radio, downhill skiing, flying private airplanes, photography, camping, golfing, scuba diving and travelling. But his passion was new cars, all the latest technology and surfing the internet (a top Amazon purchaser!). Once Raylene retired they supported the cruise ship industry by taking trips through the Mediterranean, Caribbean, Panama Canal, around South America, Hawaii, Alaska, and Australia, enjoying great adventures together and making wonderful friends. In the later years he was quite happy to sit on the beach in Mexico and listen to the waves… especially in the months of December and January!

During the rest of the months, he explored every road in the valley just because they were there… sometimes ending up at the top of ski hills. Claude was the proudest and got the most joy from his children and grandchildren.

Claude is survived by his wife of 55 years, Raylene (nee Martin), daughter Michelle Burton (Mitch), son Colin (Jenn), grandchildren Alexandra Burton, Tessa Burton, Ashley Oram and Ethan Oram, sister Lynn Birch (Bob), sister-in-law Arlene Martin along with numerous nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by his parents Lloyd and Dorothy (Angus) Oram.

The family would like to extend heartfelt thanks to Dr. Johnson for the wonderful care given to Claude throughout his long battle with this disease and to the staff at the Invermere Hospital who attended him during his final days.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Lake Windermere District Lions Club or the Canadian Prostate Cancer Society.

A Celebration of Life will be held at a later date.

Arrangements entrusted to McPherson Funeral Services.

Condolences for the family can be offered at www.mcphersonfh.com

IN MEMORIAM

ANNOUNCEMENT

ANNOUNCEMENT

CHEERS & JEERS

In Memory of

Alcoholics Anonymous. If alcohol is causing problems or conflict in your life, AA can help. All meetings are at 8 p.m.

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

Al-Anon. Are you concerned about or affected by someone else’s drinking? If so, please join us on a “ZOOM” meeting every Monday at 7 p.m. For more information or to speak with someone from our fellowship, please call 250-342-8255.

Cheers to Shane at Home Hardware for the great customer service with our recent stove purchase. Professional and honest.

CHRIS EVANS MARCH 4, 2020.

Those we love, don’t go away.

They walk beside us every day.

Unseen, unheard, and always near.

Still loved , still missed, and very dear.

Lovingly remembered by Evans’ family and friends.

S OBITUARY S Becker, Fred

April 3, 1935 – March 4, 2021 Frederick William Becker passed away peacefully at his home on Thursday, March 4th; only 30 days shy of his 86th birthday.

Born in Kassel, Germany to Wilhelm and Martha Becker, Fred immigrated to Canada in May of 1954 at the age of 19. He came aboard the Arosa Star, and landed in Hamilton, Ontario with only $12 to his name and a single suitcase. As he fought to establish himself in Canada, he took many jobs where he was able to prove his work ethic, including work at a logging camp, as a tobacco farmer, and in factory work at the Ford automobile plant.

His career took him into insurance sales in his early 20s, at which time he met Roly Messerschmidt who became a life-long friend.

Roly had the rights to Paymaster Cheque Writing Machines for western Canada and was looking for a hard working partner.

Together, they travelled from Ontario in door-to-door sales, and made their way through many communities across Canada, eventually landing in the Columbia Valley in the summer of 1959. Fred was so enamoured with the Columbia Valley that he began writing to his parents about the heaven he found in beautiful British Columbia. He helped arrange for them to move to Canada, and together they purchased 160 acres and a cafe on Dutch Creek in Fairmont. This purchase was the first family holding, and Fred’s first taste of Real Estate.

In 1963, Fred became a licensed Realtor, and was the only full-time Real Estate agent in the Valley between Kimberley and Golden during the 1960s. Through his career, he was able to establish Indian Beach Estates, Columbia Lake Estates, Juniper Heights, and later he assisted with the creation of Copper Point Resort and The Ridge golf course.

Throughout his lifetime, Fred was passionate about nature. In his own words he enjoyed, “Hiking, hunting, fishing, skiing, riding, sailing, diving, canoeing and ranching”. With those loves in mind, he purchased his homestead ranch in 1975, and lived there happily for 45 years. When he wasn’t at home, he loved to travel the world. He lost count of the number of countries he’d visited, with Tahiti and the Seychelles being some of his favourites.

With his passing, he leaves behind Claudia Becker, his wife of over 20 years; his son Ken Becker (Inna Kniazeva), daughter Annalisa Becker (Tom Penner), sister Eleanor Roeck, brother Uwe Fiege, grandchildren Kayja and Hayden Becker, Emma and James Penner, and many other nephews, nieces, cousins, and other relatives. He will be missed dearly.

In lieu of flowers or cards, please take the time to enjoy a beautiful day in nature, as Fred always did.

Pioneer Classified Advertising 250-341-6299

CHEERS & JEERS Cheers to Dr. Edward Schaeffer for being such a kind, caring, understanding doctor. You are the best.

Cheers to Mitch Jopp for keeping Hewitt Road plowed, sanded and in the best shape ever you are the BEST Road Angel.

Cheers to Stefan and Ken at Home Hardware for going above and beyond to deliver our stove, so that we could have it as soon as it arrived. Much appreciated!

Another great reason to shop local.

Cheers to Yolanda Dolman of River Gems Gallery for the wonderful gold nugget earrings you made for me. You are a very professional lady and do excellent work.

S OBITUARY S Avelino, Blake José

December 31, 1986 – February 13, 2021 Blake José Avelino, born in Vancouver, BC, died at the age of 34 in Vancouver, BC, on February 13, 2021, after a four-year battle with schizophrenia, housing insecurity and substance use.

Blake was an outstanding athlete, excelling in basketball, snowboarding and taekwondo. He had a lifelong passion for good food and could take you on an incredible culinary tour of Vancouver. Blake will be remembered as an exceptionally kind, generous and humorous person who loved his family and friends deeply – he cared about everyone.

Blake is survived by his mother Kerrie Purdy (nee Blakley) and stepfather Glen Purdy (Sparwood, BC), father Norman Avelino and stepmother Sonya Avelino (New Zealand), brother Nigel Purdy and sister Kaylynn Purdy (Sparwood, BC), grandmothers Helen Purdy (Calgary, AB) and Darlene Vestad (Kelowna BC), as well as many cousins, aunts, uncles and friends.

Blake was loved dearly by many; his memory will live on through those who loved him and knew him. His family would like to thank the BC Assertive Community Treatment Program Team 2 and his physician Dr. Leong for doing all they could for Blake. May his passing bring greater awareness to those suffering from mental illnesses, and the need for more mental health and addiction services in British Columbia.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to support the BC Assertive Community Treatment Program in memory of Blake Avelino at VGH & UBC Hospital Foundation. Donate at vghfoundation.ca/blakeavelino, by calling 604-875-4676, or by mail to VGH & UBC Hospital Foundation 190-855 West 12 Ave, Vancouver, BC V5Z 1M9.

Memories and condolences shared at www.cherishedmemoriesfs.com . Arrangements entrusted to Cherished Memories Funeral Services Ltd, Fernie, BC.

March 11, 2021

The Columbia Valley Pioneer • 21

CHEERS & JEERS

CHEERS & JEERS

Cheers to Lynz Hair Designs for doing my hair for nothing.

Much appreciated! My husband of 53 years said I looked very beautiful, it made my day.

Cheers to Dr. Bonnie Henry for her dedicated work. We are all freedom lovers, and most of us accept the current public health restrictions.

Cheers to Kelly T. from the Village Arts for the beautiful seasonal/ holiday window displays! So nice to see when driving through downtown Invermere.

LOST AND FOUND

Cheers to Steve of House mouse who left his wife’s birthday party to go make sure our property was secure. Your help is greatly appreciated!

Cheers to the new traffic circle in Radium. Jeers to how fast traffic speeds off it. Solving one problem has created another.

This summer could be deadly for more than just the sheep if it’s not somehow managed.

Cheers to Krys for the super, friendly, helpful service you gave to us today at Sobey’s.

Because I am a senior and a little forgetful, by mistake, I dropped my envelope containing money from the bank. You found it in front of the cash counter and delivered it to me in my car. First class service from a first class Sobey’s employee.

LISTINGS NEEDED! I WANT TO SELL YOUR HOUSE!

WHY LIST WITH GERRY? ✔ Website/Social Media ✔ 3D Tour, YouTube, Drone ✔ Responsive, Local, Expert

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

BUYING OR SELLING CALL 250-341-1202

gerrytaft.ca

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

STORAGE NEWHOUSE STORAGE Various sizes available.

Now with climatecontrolled units.

Call 250-342-3637.

ACCOMMODATION WANTED Retired Bachelor seeking Rural Rent/Care taking accommodation. No Vices, references can be provided.

1-250-426-4445.

LOT/ACREAGE FOR SALE

Independently owned and operated

Pioneer Classifieds

SPOT THE DEALS! N E W S PA P E R

info@columbiavalleypioneer.com

BOAT SLIP WANTED On Lake Windermere.

Interested in purchase, lease or rent. Phone Hans Leverkus Elkhorn Ranch 250-342-1268.

MISC. FOR SALE Top Quality Hay Round bales.

Indoor bales $120 per bale, outdoor bales $60 per bale.

Round bales of straw, $40 per bale. Phone Elkhorn Ranch 250342-1268.

FOR SALE: A 61”x 38” oak desk, 1 file drawer and 6 storage drawers: $30 (photo available). prapro@ shaw.ca or Phone 250-341-3540 land line.

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. $2,500. Text 250-688-1581.

SERVICES

SERVICES

HELP WANTED

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

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.

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.

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.

Old Salzburg seeking kitchen help, cooks start at $19 dishwasher at $16. Drop off resume or by email scottstorvik@ gmail.com .

There’s a reason they’re called “CLASSY”. Pioneer Classifieds…

N E W S PA P E R

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

HELP WANTED

SERVICES

BUYING OR SELLING? I specialize in rural, recreational, farm and ranch properties.

BARRY BROWN-JOHN “Rocky Mountain Land Man”

Call or text

250-342-5245

b.brownjohn@gmail.com ELKHORN COUNTRY ESTATES: Phase 3 sold out, coming soon phase 4.

Phone Elkhorn Ranch 250-342-1268. www.elkhornranches.com.

Personal Real Estate Corporation

Rockies West Realty

WANTED

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.

LEE’S SMALL ENGINE REPAIR SHOP Specializing in chainsaws, tillers, trimmers & lawn mower repairs and maintenance.

It’s time to get your tools tuned up and ready for spring!

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!

Kootenay Country Electrical Qualified Electrical Service Licensed, Bonded, Insured Highly skilled electrician Call Dean 250-342-5516.

Spring tune-ups on Golf carts and lawn tractors, pickup and delivery available at extra charge. Call Jeff 250-341-8146 leave a message.

Pike Contracting Excavating and Skid Steer services.

Call Jason 250-342-5277.

Panorama Resort is recruiting for an

Accounting Coordinator The Accounting Coordinator reporting directly into the Accounting Manager is primarily responsible for Accounts Receivable for Panorama Mountain Resort and all related companies.

In addition to those duties, they will take ownership of the Rental Pool process and assist in ensuring that the General Ledger is accurate and up to date.

This multi-faceted role comes along with opportunities to develop and improve upon your current Accounting knowledge and to further develop; Financial Reporting, Analysis and supervisory skills as the role progresses.

Essential functions: • Generate and process weekly and monthly billings and apply payments in a timely and accurate manner using Springer Miller (SMS) and Sage 300 • Billing and collecting payment for; Lift, Activity, Expedia, Jonview, Strata contracts, internal contracts, among others.

• Helping to implement and setup new Accounts Receivable processes for any new ventures or opportunities in co-operation with Sales/Guest Services/Marketing • Ensuring timely and accurate deposits are made to the bank to aid cashflow and ensuring reporting is correct.

• Monitoring the collection status of recoverable invoices and posting/handling adjustment issues as necessary Experience/Requirements: • High School Degree with preference for applicants with some college accounting or bookkeeping courses • Desire to pursue future accreditation is a positive • 2-5 years of Accounting experience • Customer experience and a professional telephone manner • Fundamental understanding of accounting in theory and practice, with a particular focus on AR For a full job description and to apply, go to

www.panoramaresort.com/employment

Have something to say? Letters to the editor can be e-mailed to info@columbiavalleypioneer.com

22 • The Columbia Valley Pioneer

HELP WANTED

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.

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.

PRODUCTION HELPER 9 am - 5 pm, Mon. - Fri. Full-time/benefits.

Wage dependant on abilities.

Must have: • Working knowledge of either Adobe Illustrator or Corel Draw • Ability to work independently • Must be self motivated

Jobs include: (training provided) • Printing and assembly of beer tap handles • Use of large format and specialty machines • Packaging and labeling • Spray painting and woodwork

Send all resumes to: accounting@wyliejack.com

BCYCNA – CLASSIFIED ADS

BUILDINGS FOR SALE

EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITIES

INTEGRITY POST FRAME BUILDINGS since 2008. Built with concrete posts. Barns, shops, riding arenas, machine sheds and more. Adam.s@ integritybuilt.com. 1-250-3515374. www.integritybuilt.com

LIVE-IN CAREGIVER for Senior in lakefront home near Fort St. John. Private accommodation.

All aspects of personal care. $3,000/month. Free room and board. Contact: susanmariebitner@gmail.com

EDUCATION

HEALTH

TAKE YOUR CONFIDENCE & communication up a level. Get the career and family life of your dreams! Jon a Toastmasters International group near you. www.toastmasters.org/find-aclub

GET UP TO $50,000 from the Government of Canada. ALL ages & Medical Conditions Qualify.

Have a child under 18 instantly receive more money. CALL BRITISH COLUMBIA BENEFITS 1-(800)-211-3550 OR Send a Text Message with Your Name and Mailing Address to (604) 739-5600 For Your FREE benefits package.

BUSINESS OPPORTUNITIES

SERVICES Attention

Inventors!

Ideas wanted!

Call Davison today!

1.800.218.2909 or visit us at inventing.davison.com/BC

Free inventor’s guide!

Please email classified ads to info@columbiavalleypioneer.com

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March 11, 2021 EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY

Education Coordinator

• • •

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.

•

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.

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.

EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY

Manager of Public Works and Utilities Under the general direction of the Director of Operations, the Manager of Utilities & Public Works will provide quality service delivered in a professional manner to satisfy Chief and Council and residents of the Shuswap Reserve.

The Manager is required to develop project plans, purchase supplies, allocate resources, estimate and monitor job costs, assist subordinates in resolving work issues, and liaise with other departments, developers, contractors and utility companies in the coordination of projects. Considerable independent judgement and action are exercised in performing the work. Complex problems and policy matters are resolved in conjunction with the Director of Operations.

•

Conducts site inspections during progress states of development in relation to infrastructure, water and sewer.

SAFETY/RISK MANAGEMENT • Participates in SIB’s health and safety committee meetings.

• Updates and ensures staff is knowledgeable in our Safety Plans.

• Ensure safety and risk management policies and procedures are adhered to.

OTHER • Ensures familiarity with utility Tariff.

• Prepares and/or review comprehensive reports, plans, contract documents and estimates.

• Prepares project briefings and attends Chief and Council and Committee meetings when required.

• Monitors and maintains winter road conditions.

• Ensures on-call availability, as required.

• Performs other related duties as request by the Director of Operations.

RESPONSIBILITIES INCLUDE BUDGETING • Develops, monitors and accounts for the Utility & Public Works Department budget and assists with the preparation of the annual budget.

• Maintains operating and capital budgets throughout the year.

• Engages in long-term planning and forecasting of Shuswap’s Capital Expenditures.

• Applies for grants that will assist the Utilities and Public Works department access additional funding.

• Develops timely reports for the Director of Operations, Chief and Council and funders as needed.

DEPARTMENT ACTIVITIES INCLUDE: • Provides orientation, coaching and supervision for all staff within the department. Oversees and motivates staff and subcontractors for efficient and effective service delivery.

• Assesses staff members’ training needs and ensures training and mentoring occurs in a timely manner.

• Prioritizes projects and workload.

• Attends senior management team meetings on a weekly basis and cross-functional team meetings as needed.

• Prepares draft policies and procedures as it relates to the functional requirement of the department.

PHYSICAL RESOURCES AND SERVICES • Purchases equipment with efficiencies and within budget.

• Authorizes the purchase of supplies and materials for projects and general maintenance.

RESPOND TO PUBLIC CONCERNS • Communicates and interacts effectively with multiple stakeholders in service delivery (i.e. Chief and Council, Board of Directors, residents, Director of Operations, other departments and team members).

• Responds to complaints and concerns of public in a timely fashion.

• Prioritizes issues raised by public.

• Explains process to the public.

CONTRACTS AND AGREEMENTS • Prepares tender documents.

• Negotiates Public Works contracts and agreements.

• Assists in the preparation of various government grant applications.

• Prepare documents for approval.

• Monitor contractors ensuring that they meet all terms and conditions of contracts.

NEW SITE DEVELOPMENT • Inspects and monitors new development sites for quality control in the installation of infrastructure etc..

• Ensures all development control standards are being followed.

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 • • • • • • • • •

A post secondary degree in engineering technology or other related field, and/or Minimum of 10 years’ experience related to associated technical and operational functions, including working knowledge of project management.

Considerable knowledge of infrastructure, including methods, practices, specifications, and techniques used in the construction, operation and maintenance of water, road, drainage and facilities.

Knowledge of water system maintenance and operations including the principles of water chemistry, water distribution, booster stations, PRV operations and water treatment.

Knowledge of sewer utility maintenance and operations including the principles of lift stations, aeration lagoons, and sewer pressure systems.

Effective interpersonal and communications skills.

Proven supervisory and team leadership skills.

Proficiency with Microsoft software (ie. Excel, Word, and Outlook), and knowledge of databases.

A valid Class 5 Drivers License.

SKILLS & ABILITIES

• • • • • •

Demonstrated proactive approaches to problem-solving with strong decision-making capability.

Management and supervision experience.

Highly resourceful team player, with the ability to also be extremely effective independently.

Knowledge of the Shuswap culture is an asset.

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).

• Driver’s Abstract and access to personal transportation and a valid class 5 drivers license.

• Require three (3) recent work references.

• Wage to be based on 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: March 19th, 2021 at 4 pm (MST)

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March 11, 2021

The Columbia Valley Pioneer • 23 The Little Badger Early Learning Program is seeking an

Now accepting resumes for our maintenance crew.

Invermere Veterinary Hospital is seeking a full-time Practice Manager to join our dynamic Hospital Team.

We are looking for an enthusiastic, leadership driven candidate with administrative experience in both Accounting and HR Management. 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.

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

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

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:

Resort Delivery Driver (1 year-round)

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

Maintenance Labourer (1 year-round)

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 The Little Badger Early Learning Program is seeking an

Out-ofSchool Teacher The Little Badger Early Learning Program 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.

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.

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.

Early Childhood Educator

No experience required, on the job training provided.

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

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

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

The Little Badger Early Learning Program 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.

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

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

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24 • The Columbia Valley Pioneer

FAITH

Reflection on the Crucifixion of Jesus

LAKE WINDERMERE ALLIANCE CHURCH

By Brent Woodard from the Anglican/United Church

Online Sundays at 10:30 a.m.

Visit https://lwac.online.church 326 10th Avenue, Invermere 250-342-9535 • www.lwac.ca

WINDERMERE VALLEY SHARED MINISTRY ANGLICAN-UNITED Please email office@wvsm.ca to request a link to our online service which starts at 10:30 a.m. Sundays.

Recorded services can be accessed by typing WVSM Invermere Anglican United Church.

250-342-6644 • www.wvsm.ca

VALLEY CHRISTIAN ASSEMBLY Sunday 10 a.m. Worship service Pastor Murray Wittke 4814 Highway Drive, Windermere 250-342-9511 • www.valleychristianonline.com

ROMAN CATHOLIC CHURCH

St. Anthony’s, Canal Flats., Canadian Martyrs’ – Invermere, St. Joseph’s – Radium.

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

ST. PETER’S LUTHERAN CHURCH Sunday 1:30 p.m. Worship Service at Valley Christian Assembly 4814 Highway Drive, Windermere www.eklutheran.ca mtzionlc@hotmail.com

RADIUM CHRISTIAN FELLOWSHIP Sunday 10 a.m. Worship service Pastor Wayne and Linda Frater • 250-342-6633 No. 4, 7553 Main St. Radium • 250-347-9937

CHURCH OF JESUS CHRIST OF LATTER-DAY SAINTS Worship Service, Sunday, 10 a.m.

Relief Society, 11:15 a.m.

President Rick Daniels • Columbia Valley Branch 5014 Fairway, Fairmont Hot Springs 250-421-3756

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

your message is resonating with residents and visitors alike.

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

March 11, 2021

www.columbiavalleypioneer.com

In the time of Jesus and the writing of the New Testament, people were very religious. A few people, the Jews, believed in one God. Most people, however, believed in many gods. It was like there were different managerial levels of gods.

The gods were thought of as human-like in that they looked like humans and had lots of emotions and moods.

Yet, the gods were immortal and had way more power than humans. They affected, so people thought, almost every aspect of daily life. As living was very dangerous and unpredictable, people felt they could have some control by either keeping a friendly god on their side or getting a god who might be angry at them to change their minds.

Each god had a temple. Temples were everywhere. Every temple had a statute of the god to which it was dedicated. It also had an altar, where animals were sacrificed, so the blood and the meat could be a gift to that god. Everyone sacrificed – Jews, non-Jews (Gentiles) and pagans. It was the dominant way people thought they could be in the right-relationship with God or the gods.

The sacrificed animal was a gift to the god. It was thought the god liked the smell of the smoke rising in the air. Many temples had dining rooms attached to them where people would eat the meat. It was like they were eating with the god. They were, at least, honour-

ing the god by eating there. Temples and sacrificing and blood-purifying and gift-exchanging with gods was ubiquitous.

It is not surprising, then, that when Jesus was crucified by the imperial authority of Rome, some people interpreted his death using this worldview that dominated their cosmological thinking. By some, Jesus was seen as the ultimate gift, the ultimate blood sacrifice, the ultimate payment, for the sins or the people’s debt so that people could be in the right relationship with God. The seeds of this way of understanding the crucifixion of Jesus are in the Bible. Those seeds grew in church theology such that the main teaching of the church became that Jesus died “to pay for our sins,” implying that God couldn’t love people without a violent, painful, sacrificial, satisfactory payment.

Other passages in the Bible show how Jesus tried to change this old way of thinking (the old wineskin) of God, to a new realization (new wine) of an unconditionally loving God, who could be accessed in the present moment simply on trust. Jesus did not see God as requiring his murder. Jesus repeated the words of the prophet Hosea, speaking of God, “I desire steadfast love and not sacrifice.” He was a wisdom teacher who tried to change people and society by helping people find a treasure within them. He was crucified by those who were invested in, and who profited from the temple-sacrificial system.

It was not God who required Jesus to be dead. It was those humans, privileged by the status quo, who were willing to inflict a penalty on others so their worldview did not have to change and their benefits did not have to come to an end. Sadly, this scenario has been played out many times in human history. This is what Jesus tried to change.

Update from the Columbia Valley Arts

Wow! What a year. We, here at Columbia Valley Arts, feel so incredibly lucky to call this amazing Valley community, home. We have

By Cajsa Fredin greatly missed seeing our Executive Director lovely friends stopping by, and checking out the colorful art shows in the gallery, or dancing your hearts out at another fabulous evening of live music. Fear not, we have plans in the mix, and we are working hard at bringing some of that back, 2021 style.

First up on this years’ calendar is “Mountain Moments,” an exciting new Art Show from Pat and Ryan Bavin, at Pynelogs, from March 16 until April 6. Creating stunning blown glass vessels is only one of the many artistic pursuits of the Bavin family; “Mountain Moments” is also a photographic travel back in time, featuring the work of Pat’s father, Hal Bavin, an acclaimed mountain photographer who captured the amazing history of the mountain backcountry though striking black and white photography. Ryan follows his grandfather’s photo darkroom footsteps, showcasing new work that incredibly captures crisp mountain light, while Pat’s paintings explore the valley and alpine we love through expressive texture and color. Beautifully contrasted by the delicate

porcelain woodland artistry of Shawna Tegart, and the vitreograph printwork of Tina Nowatschin, developed while in artists residency at the University of Hawaii, “Mountain Moments” is an inspired merger of art and history in the Kootenays.

Virtual gallery showings, studio tours and artist interviews will be available through our NEW Facebook page Columbia Valley Arts, or on Instagram @columbiavalleyarts, which gives you a great reason to check out our full Gallery and Events calendar for a much needed Arts fix everyday! And yes, while 2020 threw a curveball, it has also given us the amazing opportunity of partnering with Black Star Studios to bring art to Seniors of our valley with another round of Community Healing Through Art! With the support of the Columbia Valley Community Foundation (CVCF) and the Emergency Community Support Fund, we are proud to continue bringing the Arts to Everyone with free art kits for Seniors of the Columbia Valley.

Get Creative! Get Inspired! And get into Black Star (250-342-6663) to pick up an awesome Art Kit (for that special Senior in your life) today! Friends, we will dance again, and in the meantime, even if it is only from six feet away, come on in for that Arts fix. We think it’s pretty good for the Kootenay soul.