Columbia Valley Pioneer, May 6, 2021

May 6, 2021 Vol. 18/Issue 18

Your Weekly Source for News and Events

The Columbia Valley Pioneer • 1

May 6, 2021

The Columbia Valley

P ioneer

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2 • The Columbia Valley Pioneer

May 6, 2021 Highlights of the @LiveColumbiaValley Instagram account, brought to you by the Columbia Valley Community Economic Development Office, a service of the RDEK.

Bruno’s Plumbing Service Mike Sylvestre 250.342.5105 brunosplumbing@shaw.ca ~ We now service drains ~ Serving The Columbia Valley

UPCOMING EVENTS Ser

vin g th eC

HIGHLIGHTS

Read Local Book Club

o l u m bia

Thursday, May 20th at 7:30 pm on Zoom

e Vall y

This One Wild Life: A Mother-Daughter Wilderness Memoir by Angie Abdou Contact us for the link and a copy of the book!

invermere.bc.libraries.coop

#ColumbiaValleyBC

There are times in the year and few places in the Columbia Valley that you can see skiing, cycling and floating activities from one vantage point. Fairmont Hot Spring Resort’s hiking trails provide that vantage point.

Custom Shower Doors Building or renovating? We provide custom shower door installation at competitive prices.

One minute you’re enjoying a sleepy weekend morning. The next you’re being chased out of bed by a jerk Swan.

While the @wingsovertherockies events have changed considerably over the last few days, but thanks to their visionary tech adoption, there’s still lots of ways to support and participate in their online events.

And then maybe you can tell me if this was a Trumpeter Swan, a Tundra Swan or a Snow Goose that moved these American White Pelicans along their journey in the Columbia Wetlands.

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Many, many more draws will continue through 2021.

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Congratulations

Titan and Gunner This week’s winners of our

Mother’s Day Contest

There was a Wildfire Community Preparedness Day on May 1, raising the public’s awareness about taking precautions against wildfires. During this year’s Preparedness Day, residents were instructed to take action around their homes in order to lessen the risk of wildfires.

Here is the B.C. Wildfire Service from the Southeast Fire Centre.

Photo submitted by Cortney Pitts

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May 6, 2021

The Columbia Valley Pioneer • 3

VALLEY NEWS

Second homeowners frustrated by restrictions Letters ask for clarification, exemptions or partial property tax refund from Invermere officer Andrew Young indicated that he feels the restrictions don’t need much clarification.

them. They should be permitted to travel to those homes and then be required to comply with all COVID-19 restrictions while occupying that property, including to stay “This would be a gesture of goodwill by the disProvincial travel restrictions announced nearly two at home and only travel within the community where the trict of Invermere.” weeks ago continue to be a point of contention in the property is located,” wrote Ratke.

Columbia Valley.

She added that last year’s lockdown that prohibited Renee Ratke, second homeowner requesting parInvermere council discussed the issue last week at its Albertans from travelling to B.C. had devastating consetial refund of property taxes Tuesday, April 27 meeting, prompted by two separate letquences on the local economy in Invermere, and wrote ters from those who own second homes in the district. “the exceptions suggested above are a reasonable comproThe first letter, from Howard Bakken, outlined a de“The direction that is provided by the province is mise to this serious COVID-19 situation.” sire to return to Invermere from Alberta every few weeks generally clear. The intent certainly is quite clear,” said Ratke further wrote that if exceptions to the travel reto check and maintain his second home, and sought clar- Young, adding he was recently on a conference call with strictions for second homeowners cannot be granted, she ification on the definition of essential travel. other B.C. municipal chief administrative officers, may- is requesting “a partial refund of the property taxes paid Bakken and his wife have owned property in Inver- ors and provincial Public Safety Minister Mike Farn- by Alberta residents who own property in Invermere, be mere for 20 years and — for the past several years — the worth, and that the minister “made it quite clear during made calculated by prorating the number of days that Alcouple, now retired, have lived in the valley almost full the call: stay at home. If that is what it takes in order to bertans could not have access to their properties in Invertime from April to September, with only occasional trips beat this thing, the message is to stay home.” mere. This would be a gesture of goodwill by the district back to Alberta. of Invermere.”

“It’s not preventing people from travelling, it’s preventing “I will return to Alberta before Friday and Invermere council and staff pointed out at the people from going back and forth, back and forth, and possibly not move back to the valley until the restrictions meeting that the district does not have the authorare lifted. I will re-engage our house checking ser- carrying the virus with them. If you’re from Alberta and you want ity to change property tax rates. vice, however, I feel it is essential that I return to to ride this out here (in the valley), be my guest. But stick around.

“Any local government in B.C. does not have Don’t keep going back and forth. That’s the point of the order.” my property briefly every few weeks to check and this type of discretion,” said Young. “It is not withmaintain all the essential systems — HVAC, hot in the gift of local governments to make individuUte Juras, Invermere councillor tub, sprinkler system, etc.,” wrote Bakken, adding al arrangements with individual property owners “I know I could try to hire several local businesses to provide a partial refund of property tax. If that to do this but that will be costly and arrangements for The second letter, from Renee Ratke, requested three were to be the case, not only would we have the Ratke access are required.” exceptions to the travel restrictions; for people who can family, but any number of other property owners making He requested that council work with provincial provide written proof from a medical doctor that they the same request. It is not possible to do this.” health authorities and the RCMP to clarify what is essen- have already had COVID-19; for people who can proCouncillor Ute Juras clarified that the travel restrictial travel for Alberta residents who own property in the vide written proof that they have been vaccinated; and tions are not meant to target Albertans specifically, but valley, and to then publish this information. for people who own property in Invermere (who Ratke are broad, apply to everybody, and also means that full“Please recognize that these travel restrictions create termed “part-time residents” and who Ratke feels should time Columbia Valley residents can’t go to Calgary, just emotional and financial stress on property owners from be permitted to travel to those second homes). as Calgary residents can’t come here.

Alberta,” wrote Bakken.

“The third exemption above is based on the fact that During the meeting, Invermere chief administrative vacation properties are ‘homes’ to the people who own Continued on page 8...

By Steve Hubrecht steve@columbiavalleypioneer.com

Columbia Valley RCMP arrested man for alleged firearm, assault offences

Submitted by BC RCMP Communication Services On April 30, 2021, Columbia Valley RCMP received a complaint that a woman had been allegedly been assaulted and that a firearm had been discharged near her at Lake Enid, near Invermere.

Officers responded to the area and were able to get a vehicle description from a Conservation Officer who had

spoken to the male suspect the day before. Video from a RCMP traffic vehicle confirmed that the man had left the area prior to officers arriving.

The vehicle was later spotted in Invermere and was blocked in by attending officers. The man fled from his vehicle but was taken into custody with the assistance of a police service dog.

A 29-year-old man was in custody pending his scheduled court appearance the following day.

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4 • The Columbia Valley Pioneer

SECURITY • • • •

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This past week, April 26 through May 2, the Columbia Valley RCMP responded to 58 calls for service. The following is a summary of some of the files our officers responded to.

•On Monday, April 26, at 8:45 a.m., emergency crews responded to a single vehicle collision on Highway 93/95 near Invermere. A witness reported seeing a southbound Hyundai Tucson suddenly swerve off the road and down an embankment. The driver and lone occupant sustained minor injuries and were transported to the hospital to be assessed.

•On Monday, April 26, at about 4 p.m., emergency crews responded to a two vehicle collision on Highway 93/95 and Kootenay Number 3 Road in Windermere.

The driver of a southbound Dodge Journey was unable to avoid a collision when the driver of a Ford pickup made a southbound turn onto the highway. The driver of the Ford pickup was issued a violation ticket for failing to

yield after a stop. None of the occupants of the vehicles were seriously injured.

•On Tuesday, April 27 at 10 p.m., a single vehicle collision was reported on Highway 93/95 near Stoddart Creek Road in Radium Hot Springs. Police arrived to find a Volvo S70 down a five meter embankment with major front end damage. While speaking to the driver, the officer noted signs of impairment and read a breath demand to the driver.

The driver was transported to the Detachment and provided two breath samples which were both over the legal limit.

The driver was held in cells until sober and released on an Appearance Notice to attend court at a later date.

•On Sunday, May 2, at 6:30 p.m., Columbia Valley RCMP received a report of a transport truck striking a concrete wall on Highway 93 at the tunnel in Kootenay National Park. Emergency crews responded and confirmed that a Peterbilt transport truck with a flat deck trailer had collided into a concrete barrier. The driver was transported to the hospital with minor injuries. The investigation into the cause of the collision is ongoing.

Vandalism at the Catholic Church 2021 Student Awards Columbia Valley Community Foundation

Application deadline:

Saturday, May 15th, 12 p.m.

Details, including eligibility and applications are available at:

valleyfoundation.ca/ Students/ 2021 Student Awards: Arnold Ellis Scholarship Alan J. Witherspoon Fine Arts Award Bidder Bursary Award Erwin Kloos Memorial Award Arnold Ellis’ (right) gift to our community has resulted in over $326,000 in student awards since the fund’s creation in 2014.

WWW.VALLEYFOUNDATION.CA

By Camille Aubin camille@columbiavalleypioneer.com

Vandalism occurred at the Canadian Martyrs Church of Invermere during the weekend of Saturday, April 24 and Sunday, April 25.

RCMP was immediately notified of an apparent broken window in the rear of the church located at 712 12 Ave. “We received a report on Sunday, but we don’t know exactly when it happened. We don’t know who did it or why they did it. We know that church is being used for vaccinations, but there’s nothing that we’ve uncovered to suggest that it was targeted for that reason,” explained Sgt. Darren Kakuno.

The incident did not involve a break-in.

Any person who might have any information Broken window in the rear of the Catholic Church. regarding this matter should call the RCMP detach- Photo by Camille Aubin ment at 250-342-9292.

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May 6, 2021

Rise in semi-truck traffic creates problems in Radium

parking in residential areas. It’s going to be a challenging problem moving forward,” explained Radium chief administrative officer Mark Read to councillors. “There’s Radium Hot Springs has had truck management is- no easy answers here. This is not going to be a situation sues since the beginning of the major construction clo- where we’re going to be able to make everyone happy.” sure of Kicking Horse Canyon on the TransCanada earliAccording to Read, local residents are already exer this spring sent squadrons of extra vehicles through the tremely polarized over these issues. village on a long detour.

Throughout the night, generators keep the truck’s reBetween April 12 and May 14, the traffic on High- frigerator running, which contributes to the noise probway 1 (the TransCanada) belem. Another source of noise tween Golden to Castle Juncthat local residents of Radium tion is routed via Highways 93S Hot Springs have expressed and 95, which means Radium concern about is the use of has seen its traffic increase drasthe compression release engine tically, especially the semi-trailbrakes, more commonly named ers transporting goods from one Jake brakes or Jacobs brakes, in side of the country to the other. the town area. “People are comThe noise and parking ising out of the park (Kootenay sues have dominated the discusNational Park), specifically, are sion at the last Radium counusing them (Jake brakes) and cil meeting, held by Zoom on not turning them off in the muScreenshot from BC HighwayCams Wednesday, April 28. nicipality, and the motels along “We’re starting to see more the strip have certainly given me and more conflicts. Those conflicts are very difficult to feedback,” said councillor Mike Gray. resolve and deal with. We have, for example, conflicts To deal with those problems, mayor Clara Reinhardt between truck parking at the Prestige, where we have re- expects more from the Commercial Vehicle Safety and frigerator trucks that are running generators. And we also Enforcement (CVSE). “They (CVSE) should be working have those conflicts (that) are occurring with the residen- on the off-peak hours. That’s their job, and they should tial areas surrounding places, where trucks are parking, be monitoring that. There’s no reason why they can’t go like at the Prestige. This is starting to percolate and hap- one or two nights a week around midnight and just see pen all over the municipality. And it’s not just truck park- what’s going on out there.” ing or traffic noise... It’s parking in front of driveways, Continued on page 5...

The Columbia Valley Pioneer • 5

By Camille Aubin camille@columbiavalleypioneer.com

District of Invermere

FireSmart Rebate Program

As a part of our continued efforts to increase our community’s resilience to wildfire, the District of Invermere is excited to continue the FireSmart Rebate program. Homeowners who take steps to FireSmart their homes may be eligible to be reimbursed through the FireSmart Rebate Program.

Through funding received from the Union of BC Municipality’s Community Resiliency Investment Program, the District of Invermere is offering $500 rebates to residents who take steps to FireSmart their homes or property.

The focus of the FireSmart Rebate Program in 2021 will be on the reduction of combustible vegetation in and around residences, and wood shake or wood shingle roofs- this is the simplest, yet most effective way to improve a home’s ability to survive a wildfire.

To qualify for a rebate, residents must first have a Fire Smart Home Assessment by the District of Invermere Certified Local FireSmart Representative completed. Next, residents will need to take action on the recommendations made during the home assessment. The homeowner will submit their receipts (or copies of) to the front counter at the District of Invermere Municipal Office along with the Work plan / Estimate. The District will then inspect and approve the completed work at the property.

If designated work is successfully completed, the homeowner will be reimbursed for 50 % of material and labour costs to a maximum $500 rebate per property.

The rebate program will be available for registration from May 1st to October 30th, 2021 on a first-come first-served basis. The deadline to complete the recommended work, and request a rebate is November 30th, 2021. There are approximately 40 rebates available.

Assessments completed in the 2020 program but not acted upon are valid for the rebate program in 2021.

Contact 250-342- 9281 or email info@invermere.net for your free FireSmart Home Assessment.

Happy Mother’s Day Mothers’ day is the time to say THANK YOU. For all those who can no longer see and hug their moms this year, this campaign offers a small gesture of appreciation.

To say to them: “Mom, wherever you are, I am thinking of you, I will never forget you, I love you”

Donate Today: hospicesocietycv.com The Lakeview Manor Society

Annual General Meeting Tuesday, May 25th at 7 p.m.

Lions Hall, Columbia Valley Chamber of Commerce building. Limited space due to COVID restrictions.

Questions? Call Al Larratt at 250-688-7656.

Canal Flats Community

Saturday, May 8th ~ 10 am till 3 pm 12 or more outdoor sales!

Masks and Social Distancing Required Maps Available at Canal Flats Family Pantry and 8783 Tamarack St.

For more information, call 250-349-5447

The Columbia Valley Food Bank Notice of Annual General Meeting The Annual General Meeting of the Columbia Valley Food Bank will be held on Thursday, May 20th, 12 noon via a virtual Zoom meeting.

All members, as well as the general public, are welcome to attend.

Board Nominations Nominations for the 2021/2022 Board of Directors will be accepted, in advance only, by the nominating committee. The deadline for receiving nominations is noon, Tuesday May 18th, at the Food Bank.

Please pick up nomination forms at the Food Bank.

You must be a member in good standing in order to be nominated. Membership is $1.

To obtain nomination forms or to be sent a Zoom link, contact us at 250-342-0850 or email: chairpersoncvfb@shaw.ca

Have an opinion?

Email your letter to the editor to info@columbiavalleypioneer.com

6 • The Columbia Valley Pioneer

PERSPECTIVE

Let the dandelions grow

May 6, 2021

Historical Lens

By Camille Aubin camille@columbiavalleypioneer.com The dandelion is at the top of the list of the most hated plants in Canada and the United States. One of the reasons for its bad reputation is supposedly related to its yellow color. But its colour is just that: a colour. Dandelions do not adversely impact the environment. And yet they are famous unpopular plants and a prime target for herbicide companies.

Roots from dandelions are notoriously hard to dig out and the plants can propagate themselves incredibly well.

Remember seeing a dandelion breaking through a tiny crack in pavement where nothing else lives? Annoying to some, delightful to others, but either way, there’s no denying it is impressive.

Many people pull it out of their lawns or spray it when they spot it creeping alongside their perfectly manicured grass. However, not that long ago, this wasn’t considered a big deal. Instead, it was part of a healthy lawn.

Historically, humans have eaten dandelions and used them as medicine. They have been used in traditional Chinese medicine for more than a thousand years and have been mentioned in ancient writings by the ancient Greeks, Romans, and Egyptians. So, what made dandelions go from medicinal food to an unacceptable weed?

Following the Second World War, with the development of suburbia, lawns became a status symbol for the average American, and Canadian. This rapidly became an excellent opportunity for herbicide manufacturers. A new lawn industry was formed as lawn culture flourished, including residential landscaping, lawnmowers, weed wackers, leaf blowers, feed for lawns, weed killer, and more.

Often, dandelions’ yellow heads are among the first plants to blossom in spring and the last still left in autumn.

Pollinators love them. Every year, we destroy a vast habitat of wildflowers under the blades of our lawnmowers in an effort to get rid of those rapidly proliferating, omnipresent ‘nuisance’ dandelions.

The result of all this is that during the first part of spring, butterflies, honeybees, pollen beetles, and moths are in distress because we’ve killed off one of their most critical food sources at a key time.

By leaving the dandelion to grow longer for the bees, we transform our backyard into an invaluable source of nectar and pollen over a period of time (beginning of spring) where there is not much else for them to find apart from a tiny handful of other early-blooming flowers and trees. That’s right, that those little spots of sunshine on your lawn (the dandelions) arrive at just the time that bees must form the hives in order to create the honey.

So no need to feel guilty because you haven’t started your spring yard clean-up yet; you are in fact making life much better for bees, and for your backyard ecosystem.

Two women with a duo of two-horse teams near barns and sheds on the benches above Wilmer.

C2104, 1928, courtesy Windermere District Historical Society

Submitted by Larry Halverson A few weeks ago, I came back to the car all excited and let out a big Wow as I saw my first dandelion for 2021.

I’m not the only one to be stoked about dandelions... Grizzlies love them. During the spring, dandelions are one of the grizzle’s main food sources.

The Columbia Valley

CANADIAN COMMUNITY NEWSPAPER AWARD 2013

Pioneer

is independently owned and operated, published weekly by Robert W. Doull, President and Publisher, Misko Publishing Limited Partnership.

Box 868, #8, 1008 - 8th Ave., Invermere, B.C. V0A 1K0

Phone: 250-341-6299 | Toll Free (866) 496-8047 info@columbiavalleypioneer.com | www.columbiavalleypioneer.com

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Associate Publisher/ Sales Manager Ext. 102

Camille Aubin Editor Ext. 106

Steve Hubrecht Magazine Editor/ Reporter Ext. 105

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Emily Rawbon Graphic Design Ext. 104

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Office Administrator/ Sales Ext. 101

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.

May 6, 2021

The Columbia Valley Pioneer • 7

$10,000 CREDIT

Photo by Ryan Watmough

Invermere gets skatepark ambassador Position created to help stop problems at Mount Nelson Athletic Park

By Steve Hubrecht steve@columbiavalleypioneer.com In an effort to curb ongoing troubles at the Mountain Nelson Athletic Park (MNAP) skatepark, the district of Invermere and Summit Youth Centre are pairing up to create a summer-long skatepark youth ambassador position.

Reports of bullying, aggressive behaviour, vandalism, drug use and possibly worse at the skatepark have circulated on social media and among concerned parents for weeks, and almost a month ago prompted the district to issue a brochure outlining guidelines for proper and respectful behaviour at the skatepark.

Invermere leisure service manager Cortney Pitts then discussed the issue further with Summit Youth Centre manager Alison Bortolon.

“Summit Youth Centre staff stated that they had also recently received comments about people at the skatepark.

The issues, however, as they have heard are with some people’s behaviour at the MNAP, not the skateboarding or scooter activities themselves,” read a district document on the issue, presented to councillors at their Tuesday, April 27 meeting. “It was suggested that instead of policing the skatepark, the focus should be on education, awareness, and youth outreach to promote good behaviour. The skatepark ambassador would be present at the park to help promote respectful behaviour at the park.”

District staff proposed the idea to council at the meeting, outlining that the Summit Youth Centre program coordinator Devin Publikover would be an ideal candidate for the role, since he already has established good working relationships with youth in the community in general, through his work at Summit, and with youth who skateboard specifically, through his Rite to Ride foundation.

“He would be the perfect fit,” Pitts told council, outlining that Publikover set up a tent at the skatepark as a sort of trial run and “it was taken really well...it was great for the atmosphere there.”

In the proposal to councillors on the position, district staff outlined that ideally, the position would run from early May through to early September, would involve the ambassador being at the skatepark three nights a week up until the end

of the school year, and five days a week (for a total of 20 hours a week) for the rest of the summer. The projected cost to the district was $3,600 in salary, plus an additional $1,000 for snacks and drinks for the ambassador to have on hand for the youth. District staff outlined that some of that funding can come from the $7,000 the district has earmarked for summer ambassador programs.

Invermere council had already discussed the skatepark at its late March council meeting, and then again at its Tuesday, April 13 committee of the whole meeting. At the April 13 meeting, the issue was pressed by councillor Kayja Becker. It was Becker who brought the problems at the park up in March, after being approached by parents. After the district put out the brochure about respectful behaviour, Becker continued to hear from concerned parents, and decided to do some personal research into the issue, visiting the park several times while out walking her dog, and talking with kids there, finding that parents’ concerns were legitimate.

“It can be a scary place. There’s aggression...drug use...vandalism. It’s not a good thing,” said Becker at the committee meeting. She noted that if even adults needed an ambassador at the beach and downtown last summer to help remind them to follow COVID-19 rules, then it makes sense to have an ambassador at the skatepark to help youth follow COVID-19 rules and, at the same time, follow other common-sense behavioural rules and courtesies.

“We want to make our spaces safe, if we can,” said Becker.

Invermere chief administrative officer Andrew Young, at the committee meeting, mentioned the district had received reports of large gatherings at the skatepark and had confirmed incidents of vandalism by youth at the skatepark. The district had video images of youth in the area at the time and would be following up, according to Young. “Youth may be experiencing more stress than adults (with COVID-19),” he said, suggesting that an ambassador could help improve the situation at the skatepark.

At the April 27 council meeting, councillors unanimously supported partnering with the Summit Youth Centre to create a skatepark ambassador position.

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8 • The Columbia Valley Pioneer

Girl Guides Sparks starts up

May 6, 2021

By Camille Aubin camille@columbiavalleypioneer.com Shannon Kokko has launched a local Sparks organization for girls ages 5 and 6 years old, in collaboration with the volunteers.

Sparks are part of Girl Guides Canada, and key goal for the group is the growth and development of confidence for its members. It provides girls with the opportunity to take the initiative and explore new challenges.

Due to current indoor meeting restrictions, the group meets outdoors every Thursday at the Lake Windermere & District Lions Club Community Park, better known locally as Spiderweb Park.

As soon as the rules are eased, the Girl Guides will meet indoors in the Invermere Seniors Hall, which has been made available to them as a venue.

Kokko has help from five other volunteers in running this group. “I am lucky to have volunteers who were there on ThursAt Lake Windermere & District Lions Club Community Park on Earth Day (April 22), the Sparks were out in day (April 22) helping us pick up litter for Earth Day,” expressed the rain picking up trash. The right end person is Shannon Kokko, founder of the local organization in Invermere.

Kokko.

Photo by Camille Aubin At the moment, the group is working on projects related to the current theme “Into the Outdoors,” which indicate the frustration of many second homeowners Continued ‘restrictions’ from page 3 includes nature discoveries, camping skills and adventures with a pandemic that has lasted more than a year. and our shared planet, explained Kakko, adding that the “The reality is we are a border town,” said Taft.

“It’s not picking on Albertans,” said Juras.

“It’s not Girl Guides Sparks unit will also explore other thematic “Provincial lines on a map are easier to pick on.” preventing people from travelling, it’s preventing peosuch as “Take action!”, “Be well”, “Connect and quesTaft noted that Invermere residents, under the ple from going back and forth, back and forth, and tion,” and “Experiment and create.” travel restriction order, can drive almost up to the Yupossibly carrying the virus with them.

If you’re from “We are excited to continue our learning about our kon or all the way over to Kelowna, without incurring Alberta and you want to ride this out here (in the valplanet and nature, which will take us through till the end a fine, yet Calgary residents cannot drive three and ley), be my guest.

But stick around.

Don’t keep going of June, and then we start back up again in September half to four hours to their second homes in Invermere. back and forth. That’s the point of the order.” with the chocolate/vanilla Girl Guides cookie fundraiser.

“It does fuel a bit of existing tension,” said Taft, Young chimed in that Juras’s distinction is both Currently, we do have boxes of mint chocolate girl guides adding second homeowners are an important part correct and important. cookies for sale at $5 per box with proceeds going directly “We have a large number of people who are cur- of the Columbia Valley community and are “not the to our unit,” explained Kokko. rently living here in Invermere. They’ve chosen to same as a minivan full of tourists.”

For more information about the Girl Guides Sparks move here and in some cases...left property in Calgary Some second homeowners do have “legitimate unit or to register a girl into this group, visit: www.girlor elsewhere. And they have been living here in Inver- reasons to come” continued Taft, adding that from guides.ca. To contact Shannon Kokko, email her at: shanwhat he understands, many of them are too frightened mere now for many months. nonkokko@gmail.com.

“They’ve made a choice to stay, including my to do so. He noted the issue is a confusing one, pointneighbour up in Pine Ridge. We (Young and his ing out that despite the restrictions, and perhaps a few Columbia Valley neighbour) talking about this very matter. He and new signs at the B.C.-Alberta border, there are to his Arts Council his family have actually been here for five months or understanding no enforcement officers stationed at more,” said Young. “They are well aware of the need the border, and “the reality is you can drive through to minimize travel. If they go to Calgary, they’re only right now.” doing it infrequently. You’re quite right councillor (inTaft concluded by saying “it’s a sensitive topic” dicating Juras), it’s a question of making a choice, and and suggested the district, in its response to the letters, needs to be tactful and recognize the frustration bethen staying safe where you are.”

Councillor Gerry Taft said he thinks the letters hind such correspondence.

Board Members Wanted

The CVA currently has a set of three strong Directors prepared to stand for the 2021-2022 Board. CVA is financially sound, has 1.5 staff , new membership options, a new website and a strong post COVID plan to resume favourite arts programming.

Many familiar and popular programmes for students, seniors, music and film lovers are running. There are adventurous initiatives in the pipeline.

CVA needs committed, art lovers as Directors prepared to guide it into the future.

Join the CVA Board!

Contact the Secretary, Sharron Chatterton schatterton16@gmail.com or at 867-334-1875 to register you interest.

Continued ‘traffic’ from page 5 Further, Reinhardt requested that signage should be put at the town’s entrance to clarify that trucks are not permitted to park within the municipality. Other signs in the park can make a difference, too, according to Reinhardt, indicating Jake brakes are not allowed inside the village except on the 95 and 93 highways. “We need some temporary signage, which is not going to solve the problem, but it makes at least some people follow. You know you’re never going to capture them all,” expressed

Reinhardt.

Gray suggested keeping the Ministry of Transportation (MOT) aware of the current situation. “It’d be beneficial for us to have a discussion after this first round of closures (on the TransCanada) is done and bring MOT up to date on how it went,” said Gray.

A perfect solution to this problem did not appear to be within reach of the council. “We’re gonna have to bite the bullet here and do the best we can. It’s not gonna be a perfect scenario,” concluded Read on the matter.

May 6, 2021

The Columbia Valley Pioneer • 9

Don’t let hearing loss be the elephant in the room.

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“I have worked with The Hearing Loss Clinic team since 1983. They treat hearing loss as a medical problem and all hearing loss candidates are treated as patients, not clients. They have fitted three of my family members. Working with their team has been one of the most rewarding parts of my practice over the past 35 years.”

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10 • The Columbia Valley Pioneer

May 6, 2021

PUBLIC NOTICE As part of Canfor’s Forest Stewardship Council Certification and Sustainable Forest Management Plan, the public is invited to comment on the updated forest development proposals in the areas listed below.

Elk River FSR Maintenance/gravelling: Area

Landscape Unit/ Location

Maintenance/gravelling of the Elk River Forest Service Road planned for summer/fall 2021, from km 119 to 144. Expect short-term closures and/or delays

C22/Upper Elk Valley, Elkford, Elk Lakes Provincial Park

Contact Paul Picard, RPF @ 250-402-3681 or email at paul.picard@canfor.com

Planned for summer/fall 2021, from km 119 to 144.

Expect short-term closures and/or delays.

Forest License A19040/K1W - Elko/Sparwood/Cranbrook Area

Landscape Unit/ Location

Caven/Bloom area

C10/Bloom-Caven

Kiahko/Jim Smith Lakes area, Cranbrook Mtn, Palmer Bar, South Star

C30/Cranbrook

Matthew/Bootleg/ Horse Barn valley areas

C08/Kimberley

Deep Lake, Englishman/ Gold Creeks area

C37/Linklater

Upper Ladner

C24/Lower Elk River

Perry Creek/Wycliffe area

C02/Perry Creek

Teepee/Jake/Jim Creeks area

C11/Teepee

Weary/East Cadorna Creeks

C22/Upper Elk River

Foisey/McEvoy Creeks area

C17/Upper Flathead

Haller/Malpass Creeks area

C09/Yahk

Contact Paul Picard, RPF @ 250-402-3681 or email at paul.picard@canfor.com

Forest License K1W – Elko/Fernie Area

Landscape Unit/ Location

Dominion Coal blocks/Nupqu community forest

C24/Lower Elk River

Contact Paul Picard, RPF @ 250-402-3681 or email at paul.picard@canfor.com

Forest License A20212/A20214 - Creston Area

Landscape Unit/ Location

Huggard Creek/ Wynndel area

K25/Duck East Face

Mahon/Manson/Cold Creeks area

K03/Hawkins

Jensen/Christopher Creek Yahk area

K05/Kidd creek

Kingsgate area

K02/Little Moyie River

Contact Paul Picard, RPF @ 250-402-3681 or email at paul.picard@canfor.com

Forest License A18978- Canal Flats Area

Landscape Unit/ Location

Lower Bradford Creek

I02/Buhl-Bradford

Kootenay River

I11 / Kootenay

Whitetail Mountain

I14/Brewer-Dutch

Contact Brian Feeney, RFT @ 250-347-6655 or email at brian.feeney@canfor.com

Forest License A18978- Canal Flats Area

Landscape Unit/ Location

Lower Cochran Creek

I21 / Cochran

Ravenshead

I24/Pedley

Horsethief Creek

I26 / Horsethief

North Dunbar

I32 / Dunbar - Templeton

Luxor/Pinnacle

I33/Luxor

Contact Brian Feeney, RFT @ 250-347-6655 or email at brian.feeney@canfor.com

Tree Farm License 14- Parson Area

Landscape Unit/ Location

Upper Spilli Various

I37 / Upper Spillimacheen

Contact Brian Feeney, RFT @ 250-347-6655 or email at brian.feeney@canfor.com

Please contact the appropriate Planner at the numbers listed above to arrange a mutually agreeable time to review the plans. Comments received by June 4, 2021 will be considered in the planning and harvesting phases.

Split-screen image shows Rohrick in a full pirate costume, standing on frozen Lake Windermere (which doubles as the frigid North Atlantic) in Hand’s Off. The lefthand side of the image shows the action as seen in the movie, with a wrecked treasure ship digitally composited onto Lake Windermere, and with the mountain backdrop altered to be more dramatic. The righthand side of the image shows the scene as filmed without digital compositing.

Local student director launches pair of films Short movies include a re-imagining of storied moments in Invermere’s past as well as a special effect pirate extravaganza museum last year and created the film to help raise awareness about the facility.

Rohrick plays the famous (or infamous, depending Last summer the Pioneer reported on Invermere local on your perspective) Robert Randolph Bruce, the iconGreydon Rohrick’s work to create a short film, shot on lo- ic and raffish pioneer who helped spur Invermere’s early cation at the Windermere Valley Museum, depicting the growth. The film follows Bruce’s exploits, through his history of Invermere. Greydon finished work on it earlier encounters in a saloon with four other characters, and traces his attempts to make a fortune at Paradise Mine, this winter, and began promoting it last week. the transportation The film, tiImages submitted by Greydon Rohrick tled Discovering woes at the mine (getting mined Our History, is a riot of period-perore to markets in Europe before the fect costumes (handlebar mousrailway came was taches and peacock dauntingly difficult) that turned feathered hats) and him to other purgreat setting (the suits, and finally museum serves excellently as turnhis efforts to attract settlers here of-the-20th-cenby promoting the tury Invermere). valley as a place Rohrick, who is currently studying newcomers were bound to strike media and education at the Univer- From left: Oliver Breeze (playing Blanket Jones), Rohrick (playing Robert it rich with fruit sity of Lethbridge, Randolph Bruce) and Scott Field (playing a miner) engage in a heated debate orchards (efforts worked as a sum- about agriculture in the Columbia Valley and about whether Bruce has pur- that some critics mer student at the posefully duped would-be settlers in Discovering Our History. say were dubious and purposefully misleading, as valley then — as now — does not exactly Judith Reynolds as Mrs. have the climate and soil conditions to support masses of Santo in Discovering money-making orchards).

Our History In the film, Rohrick does an excellent turn as Bruce, and doesn’t shy away from the controversy surrounding his character, with two of the other characters badgering Bruce about one of his promotional brochure, telling him he’s exaggerated his claims of the valley as a ‘land of milk and honey’ for would-be fruit-growers, then wondering aloud if Bruce faked one of the brochure’s photos by hung potatoes from the branches of a tree in order to make it appear like a bountiful apple tree. “This place ain’t fit for fruit farming, and you know it,” one of the characters shoots at Bruce. Rohrick plays up Bruce fantastically in response, returning the zinger with a hilariously dismissive roll of his eyes.

Continued on page 11...

By Steve Hubrecht steve@columbiavalleypioneer.com

May 6, 2021

The Columbia Valley Pioneer • 11

Continued ‘films’ from page 10 “It’s exciting to finally share the film,” Rohrick told the Pioneer. “Overall, I am very pleased with how it turned out. Everybody who has seen it on YouTube has said it’s great. It doesn’t have a whole lot of views yet, but I’m just starting to promote it.”

Discovering Our History isn’t the only film Rohrick has released recently, as earlier this month, he finished a seven-minute short film titled Hand’s Off for one of his University of Lethbridge media classes.

Hand’s Off depicts a salty old dog of a retired pirate in a dimly lit bar, regaling those around him with an outlandish tale from his youth, detailing his battles in the icy northern Atlantic with the fearsome privateer Captain Scarborough and — the pirate promise viewers — explaining how he came to lose his hand. Rohrick is clearly enjoying himself playing both the pirate and the dread Captain Scarborough, and the costumes are once again fantastic: full pirate attire, roguish hairstyles to match, and pitch-perfect pirate accents. Oh, and a climatic sword duel to boot. Astute viewers will quickly cotton on to the fact that the pirate gives his multiple accounts of how his hand came off (orcas ate it, frostbite claimed it, etc.) yet appears on the next frame of the film with his hand still intact. What really happens? You’ll have to wait until the last few seconds of the film to find out.

Rohrick explained to the Pioneer that he’s always had an affinity for pirate films and couldn’t pass up the opportunity to make one himself. And since, the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic has kept Rohrick studying online while at home here in the valley, he had no choice but to play both roles, the main roles — in fact all the roles ­— himself.

“I couldn’t have actors, so I just had to do it

myself,” he said. “It actually became a lot of work to blend the characters together, and have them interact on screen. It takes awhile to get used to having a sword fight with yourself. But I really wanted to push the limit a little bit, and see what I could do.”

Rohrick made much of the film in his grandparents’ basement with green screen digital compositing, but some Columbia Valley scenery does make it into the film. The ice-coated reaches of the Northern Atlantic, as seen in Hand’s Off, is in fact the frozen surface of Lake Windermere, albeit with an enormous pirate schooner composited on top.

“It’s been very well received. My (university) instructors have been enthusiastic, and my classmate have voiced a lot of support,” Rohrick told the Pioneer, hastening to add that credit for the costumes goes in large part to his mom.

Rohrick also got a shout out from HitFilm, the company that makes the special effects software he used in Hand’s Off, when the company featured the film in its community spotlight.

Both films are made under the name Chisel Peak Studios, a name Rohrick chose because it reflects his Columbia Valley roots. “I really wanted a name that identifies with the valley.

And who knows, maybe one day it may even be possible to have a small (film) studio here in Invermere,” he said.

To watch Discovering Our History and Hand’s Off go on YouTube and search ‘Chisel Peak Studio’. Or open up a web browser and type www.youtube.com/ channel/UCEk2PzI4-W4X7zDV-NG7FYw.

Rohrick, acting as the dread privateer Captain Scarborough, fearsomely stares down his arch-nemesis (who Rohrick also plays) in Hand’s Images submitted by Greydon Rohrick Off.

http://www.kootenaygamblingsupport.com Greydon Rohrick’s storyboard for Discovering Our History.

Winderberry’s Treasure chest of Mother’s Day Ideas is overflowing!

Shop online for pickup.

Gift Certificates available too!

Tomato Sale!

Heirloom & Specialty Tomatoes Enjoy our Eggs Benny on Wednesday and Sunday mornings.

Variety is the Spice • Large selection of tropicals + indoor plants • Sedums, cactus and succulents • Colour-filled planters + hanging baskets

• Best selection of basket stuffers + annuals • Culinary herbs and veggie starts • Roses and flowering shrubs

HWY 93/95 WINDERMERE 250-342-3236 WINDERBERRY.CA MONDAY - SATURDAY 9-5 SUNDAY 10-4

Over 30 tomato varieties Reg $7.29 On Sale for $6.29

Get started or add to your landscape

Keep your shopping experience with us pleasant and safe! Please support our protocols & wear a mask.

Edible Acres Cafe Patio is open and surrounded by our lush Nursery Plants.

Watch our FB page for Mother’s Day Tasty Takeout Menu.

HWY 93/95 WINDERMERE 250-342-3236 WINDERBERRY.CA MONDAY - SATURDAY 9-5 SUNDAY 10-4

12 • The Columbia Valley Pioneer

May 6, 2021

Wings Over the Rockies goes virtual

Submitted by Wings Over the Rockies Nature Festival The common COVID-19 phrase “with an abundance of caution” regretfully now applies to the Wings Over the Rockies Nature Festival 2021. Following B.C. Public Health orders to avoid unnecessary travel, the Wings Board of Directors made the difficult decision to cancel all outdoor activities, including the Drive-In Movie.

A mountain bluebird. Photo by D. Hoffgaard photography The good news is that virtual presentations continue to be available. Brian Keating, Calgary Zoo’s Honorary Conservation Advisor and enthusiastic world nature traveler, presents a Celebration of Wild Places on Thursday.

May 13. On Saturday, May 15, Alex Taylor, Canadian Rockies expert and lover of the Earth’s polar regions, shares stories and images of Antarctica in The Wonder of a Penguin Summer. Both presentations begin at 7 p.m. and are family friendly.

Another virtual option is Wings On Demand Package. One ticket gives viewers access anytime, May 10 to

May 30, to nine presentations by experts on nature and open to both adult and junior photographers. Young wildlife. Topics like The Amazing Sky or Conserving camera bugs (under 16) may submit any photo that is Canada’s Birds or Bison, Bugs and Birds will engage and “Inspired by Nature”. Adults may submit their best work educate viewers. Or watch Worms Under the Rockies as in four categories – Wildlife and Birds, Landscape and Dale Wilker explains the importance of healthy soil to our Fauna, Sensitive Recreation, and Stewardship. There are food system. Learn some of Pat Morrow’s photo secrets prizes in all categories. The Grand Prize is a weekend phoin The Heart and Soul of Advento workshop for two with adventure Photography. Spend an hour ture photographer Pat Morrow. with Rodrigo Solis learning about The contest is now open for phoMonarch Butterflies. Appreciate tos shot in the past year within the beauty of Mount Assiniboine the East Kootenays and photos as Chic Scott tells its story. taken during the Festival week Take time to explore and bid may be submitted until May 14. on the Online Auction offerings.

Registration to the BirdThis is an opportunity to acquire house Competition is now amazing adventures, extravagant closed. The new homes for our art, learning opportunities and birds will be on display around so much more. Many items are the community. Photographs unique to the Wings, not availof the entries may be viewed at able anywhere else. Bidding opens Invermere BC Events Facebook Friday, May 7 at noon, closes at page May 10-16 under the event 6 p.m. on May 14. Look for en“Birdhouse Competition.” The ticing items such as a Cruise on public can vote on their favouthe Mighty Saint Lawrence, phorites in this event page. Winners tographic artwork Tumbling Glawill be announced on Monday, cier, summer or winter wetlands May 17. adventures, or maybe, a vacation There is so much nature to Pat Morrow, Wilmer resident and award win- enjoy in the Columbia Valley in a yurt. There are golf, ski and accommodation offer, stunning ning photographer, presents The Heart and Soul of and beyond. Be sure to check local art pieces, something for Adventure Photography, one the nine On-demand all the opportunities at www. everyone — funds raised by the bundled presentations available for purchase. A wingsovertherockies.org. Find auction support future Wings weekend photography workshop with Morrow is a virtual way to be Inspired by the Grand Prize for Wings photography contest. festivals.

Nature with Wings Over the Submitted photo Wings Photo Contest is Rockies.

Terry Balan - RDEK was responsible for our Fairmont Community Assessment and financial assistance for our 2020 FireSmart Plan. The Fairmont Community Association initiated the program and financial assistance also came from The Fairmont Lions Club.

Personal home mitigation is the main plan again this year - general cleanup of deadfall, tree trimmings, etc. and any other efforts around the home - such as gutter clearance and safe storage of firewood for fire pits as outlined in your FireSmart booklets distributed last year.

BINS WILL BE PLACED IN NEIGHBOURHOODS SO INDIVIDUAL HOME OWNERS CAN DISPOSE OF FIRE MITIGATION MATERIALS (JUNIPER & CEDAR etc) – NO MIXED WASTE MATERIALS ARE ALLOWED IN THE BINS or LOGS WITH A DIAMETER OF MORE THAN 6” (INCHES).

THIS IS AN OPPORTUNITY FOR FAIRMONT RESIDENTS TO CLEAR THEIR YARDS OF VARIOUS HAZARDOUS FIRE MATERIALS SUCH AS JUNIPERS & CEDARS.

At the FireSmart ™ (FS) meeting on Thursday, April 15th in Fairmont Hot Springs – 4 Fairmont Neighbourhoods received FireSmart recognition for their fire mitigation work in 2020.

Present were (from left to right) Wally Black – Fairmont local FireSmart Representative, Adam Buch – FS champion for The Strata area, Gail Gregory – FS champion for Mountainside South, Gary Silvester – FS champion for the Meadows, Agnes Livingston – FS champion for Mountainside North, Travis Abbey – FireSmart Co-ordinator for RDEK, Rosemary Stuart – FS champion for Riverview area.

Not in the picture but a major contributor to Fairmont’s success as a FireSmart community is Terry Balan – RDEK Protective Services Supervisor.

May 15 to May 24 – Placement of the bin is at Columbia River Rd and the entry into Fox Place May 20th for at least one week – Placement is in the Meadows at Fairmont at the South East corner of James Rd and Downey Avenue For further information please call Wally Black 250-345-4595.

Watch for an announcement for the future placement of a bin on Mountain Side North later this spring or in the fall.

FireSmart, Intelli-feu and other associated Marks are trademarks of the Canadian Interagency Forest Fire Centre

W h a t’ HAPPENING

s

May 6, 2021

The Columbia Valley Pioneer • 13

ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING Tuesday, May 25th, 2021 at 6:30 p.m.

Meeting will take place over Zoom Zoom links will be emailed to those who RSVP via Facebook or emailing cvcb@shaw.ca .

See our Facebook page for more details.

in the Columbia Valley

Hospice

• 10:30 am: Rhyme Time by Columbia Basin Alliance for Literacy. If you are a parent or caregiver of a child under 2 years old, come and learn some fun songs, rhymes and stories with us! Email skalesnikoff@cbal.

• 9 am: Strong Start at Martin Morigeau. Please email any questions or to org for the Zoom link. reserve your space at skalesnikoff@cbal.org or call 250-409-4251.

• 5 – 9 pm: Strong Start at Eileen Madson Primary School, Invermere.

• 9:30 am: Momfit. Moms are invited to join a weekly morning workout, hosted Please email any questions or to reserve your space at skalesnikoff@

by Invermere’s Momfit & Preschool Play Group. Kid-friendly! Due to COVID-19 cbal.org or call 250-409-4251. restrictions, sessions are held via Zoom.

• 6 – 9 pm: Youth Art Mural - Edgewater. Who wants to plan an art • 3:30 – 9 pm: Invermere’s Summit Youth Hub Centre welcomes Columbia mural in their own Community? We have heard from teens on how they Valley kids Grade 6/7 (Curry) + Grade 11 to drop by for free fun, games, music would like to help plan and design an art mural in their own towns and much more. Please note the cohort schedule and follow the centre’s for a while now. Our plan: One art mural in Edgewater, Canal Flats and guidelines. www.facebook.com/summityouthcentre • 5 – 6:30 pm: Basin Youth Network Job Readiness Online Workshop. Sign up Invermere. We will meet on zoom over the next 3 weeks planning this now for a free 3-session Basin Youth Network Job Readiness Workshop where fun project. www.facebook.com/events/141076101251961/

Thursday, May 6

you will gain valuable skills to get you ready for your next job! Register at www.kcds.ca/basin-youth-network-registrations.

Friday, May 7 • 9 am: Strong Start at Edgewater Elementary. Please email any questions or to reserve your space at skalesnikoff@cbal.org or call 250-409-4251.

• 10:30 am: Virtual Story Time by the Invermere Public Library. Tune in each Friday morning at 10:30 am for live stories and songs! Find the videos on our Facebook page. Find a craft kit at the front door of the library each week after story time! Aimed at preschool age, but all are welcome to tune in!

• 1:30 – 7 pm: Invermere’s Summit Youth Hub Centre welcomes Columbia Valley kids Grade 8 ans 12 to drop by for free fun, games, music and much more.

Please note the cohort schedule and follow the centre’s guidelines. www. facebook.com/summityouthcentre • Bingo Online – 6:00 streaming on Face Book. Go to ‘Rotary Community Online Bingo’ for playing instructions, and buy cards at https://folden-rotary. myshopify.com

Saturday, May 8 • 10 am - 3 pm: Hospice Swims the Lake! On July 8th 2021, 7 am three brave Hospice volunteer swimmers will leave Lakeshore Campground to James Chabot Beach in Invermere. To add to the fun of the challenge, The Hospice Society will sell Raffle Tickets, starting April 3rd until July 3rd (or sold out) every Saturday at Home Hardware from 10 to 3. Tickets are as follows: 1 for $10, 3 for $20. Visit www.hospicesocietycv.com for a complete list of prizes and donors.

Sunday, May 9 • 10 - 6 pm: Bottle Drive: Rotary Fundraiser. the Rotary Club collects refundable bottles and cans at the Invermere Transfer Station. Drop off your bottles at the designated bin near exit. We sort and deliver for refund - this money goes “right back into the community” through our Projects and Initiatives.

Monday, May 10 • 10 - 6 pm: Bottle Drive: Rotary Fundraiser. the Rotary Club collects refundable bottles and cans at the Invermere Transfer Station. Drop off your bottles at the designated bin near exit. We sort and deliver for refund - this money goes “right back into the community” through our Projects and Initiatives.

Swims the Lake

GRAND PRIZE

Tuesday, May 11 • 9 am: Strong Start at Edgewater Elementary. Please email any questions or to reserve your space at skalesnikoff@cbal.org or call 250-409-4251.

• 3:30 – 9 pm: Invermere’s Summit Youth Hub Centre welcomes Columbia Valley kids Grade 6/7 (P&A) + Grade 9 to drop by for free fun, games, music and much more. Please note the cohort schedule and follow the centre’s guidelines. www.facebook.com/summityouthcentre • 6 – 7:30 pm: Online Youth Night. Hey teens! For the month of May we will be doing an online activity every Tuesday. Sign up for one or all of the events. Contact Angela Miller at 250-341-5216 or Columbiavalleyyouthnetwork@hotmail.com to sign up. Kits will be available for each event, delivery can be arranged for outer Communities if needed.

Wednesday, May 12

4 nights stay and 1 welcome dinner at SLR K2 Ranch.

A value of $2,500

Other Major Prizes • • • •

List of Prizes • • • • • •

• 9 am: Strong Start at Eileen Madson Primary School, Invermere.

Please email any questions or to reserve your space at skalesnikoff@ cbal.org or call 250-409-4251.

• 10:30 -11:30 am: Seniors & Elders Catch – Family Dynamix hosts a Catch-up Cafe for the Columbia Valley every Wednesday morning on ZOOM for those isolated and unable to get out as much because of COVID-19. Contact Tricia at patkin@familydynamix.ca for safe login instructions. Even if you are unfamiliar with ZOOM video conferencing, we can help you get inexpensive internet and get you logged on!

• 3:30 – 9 pm: Invermere’s Summit Youth Hub Centre welcomes Columbia Valley kids Grade 6/7 (P&A) + Grade 9 to drop by for free fun, games, music and much more. Please note the cohort schedule and follow the centre’s guidelines. www.facebook.com/summityouthcentre

Have your event added by visiting

www.cvevents.ca

or email info@columbiavalleypioneer.com

Banff Springs Hotel ($400), Brunch at Banff Park Lodge ($170), Dinner at Touloulou’s Restaurant ($250) For a total value of $820 Nipika Mountain Resort, Guided paddle on Kootenay River – $600 McDonald’s Law Corp., Estate Planning $500 Fairmont Hot Springs Resort, 2 nights stay and 1 golf game $540

• • • • • • • • • • • • • •

Fusion Wellness Spa — $200 Smokehouse 93 — $100 Sobeys Invermere — $300 Avenue, Summit Footwear and Inside Edge — $150 1 painting from Leslie Cartwright — $150 Home Hardware any purchase in store — $150 Crossroads Esso purchase of card — $100 Valley Fitness Centre 1 – 10 hole Punch Pass — $162 Valley Zipline Adventures ($84) and Scootin’ Kootenay Segway ($79) –f $163 Horsethief Pub — $100 Hoodoos Resort – Gas valued at 50 and Lucky Gas valued at 50 — $100 Family Chiropractic 2 orthopedic pillows — $120 Tim Hortons – Gift Basket — $100 St Eugene’s Mission Golf and Stay 1 night stay and on 18 holes golf game for 2 people including cart — $349 Kicking Horse Coffee ($100) and Winderberry & Edible Acres ($50) — $150 Fairmont Mountain Side Grocery ($50) and Healing Forest Walk w Pat Bavin ($50) — $100 Lakeside Bike Co. Free Level 1 Tuneup — $100 Spur Valley Golf – 4 people — $120 Columbia Paddle Kayak and Canoe Rental 4 hour paddle for 4 people — $190 Paradise Lodge 1 night stay for 2 people 1/2 price for second night available — $325

• • • • • • • • • •

Pandora Bracelet and Bead in Banff 1 Bracelet — $240 2 Stain Glass Lanterns from Ceasar – Canal Flats — $200 Eagle Ranch Golf – 18 Holes – 2 people including cart — $240 Warwick Interior Décor — $100 Windermere Valley Golf – 18 Holes – 4 including cart — $204 Bootleg Gap – 18 Holes – 2 people w/ cart Monday thru Thursday only — $120 Golden Golf Club – 18 Holes – 2 people — $120 1 Metal or Wood Art – Bill Dorschuck — $200 1 Painting – Win Kemper — $100 Canadian Mountain Holidays — Therm-ic Socks — $320 Rona Hardware ($50) and AG Valley Foods ($150) — $200 Riverview B & B – Fairmont – 1nt King Suite – Arrival Dinner & Hot Breakfast — $200 Canadian Tire – 1 Inflatable Kayak — $300 Pete’s Marina – 2 Hour Rental Pontoon Boat — $400 Valley Coffee Co. ($50), From Scratch Restaurant ($50), La Galleria ($50) and Purple Cow Gift Shop ($25) — $175.00 ULLR Bar 100 — $100, Station Pub restaurant — $25 — $125 Sobeys — $203 Copper Point Golf Course 2 rounds at the Ridge — $196 Black Forest Steak & Schnitzel Haus Gift Certificate value $100 and Columbia

Hospice • •

Swims the Lake • • • • • • •

If you have a residence in BC you can purchase tickets online.

Visit www.hospicesocietycv.com

14 • The Columbia Valley Pioneer

May 6, 2021

HERE TO SERVE YOU SERVICES

SERVICES

SERVICE EXCELLENCE

Sales ~ Service ~ Installation

North American Warranty

IN THE COLUMBIA VALLEY

SINCE 1991

UNIVERSAL DOORS & EXTERIORS

All Makes and Models

ICBC Glass Repair Out of Province Vehicle Inspections Auto Body Repairs • Painting • Quality Parts

Arnold Scheffer 250-342-6700

Tire Sales and Installation

We give all students 15% off with valid student ID

unidoorext@live.ca • unidoorext.ca

Industrial ~ Commercial ~ Residential

141 Industrial Rd. 2 • 250-342-9424 • Open Monday - Saturday, 8:30 am - 5:30 pm

WINDOW COVERINGS SHOWROOM

Beat the fall rush ~ clean your Chimney this spring!

ROCKY MOUNTAIN CHIMNEY SWEEPS LTD. 804 Almberg Road, Golden, BC V0A 1H2 CELL: 250.272.5599 OFFICE: 250.344.7323 todd@rockymountainchimneysweeps.com rockymountainchimneysweeps.com

CLEANING & MAINTENANCE ON ALL WOOD BURNING APPLIANCES • WETT INSPECTIONS

• • • •

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

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

KITCHEN CABINETS & COUNTER TOPS

915 7th Avenue, Unit B, Invermere • EMAIL: fairmontridge@telus.net • 250-342-4663 • Interior/Exterior Painting • Staining • Clear Coat • New Construction • Renovations

Scott Postlethwaite

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

Free Estimates

invermereelectric@gmail.com

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

HOW WE ROLL Gerard Rehman

(7655) LetUsRoll4U@Gmail.com

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

Fully Insured

Cell: 250-342-5645 • efrater@telus.net

Toll Free 1-88

20 years experience • Satisfaction guaranteed!

Serving the Valley for over 20 years!

Everett Frater Enterprises

Kootenay

Ph: 250-688-ROLL

Spring Cleaning • Lawn Maintenance Commercial Residential

• Patches • Driveways • Parking Lots • Roads • And more!

(Servicing the Valley since 1999)

NEW SEWER CAMERA

Kootenay Paving

• Septic Tank Pumping • Portable Toilet Rentals

Toll Free 1-888-341-2221

Call now for a free quote!

Locally operated, with full-time staff to serve you better.

• A well maintained septic system • Complete sewer/drain repairs should be pumped every 2-3 years • Reasonable rates – Seniors’ discount • Avoid costly repairs • Speedy service – 7 days a week

1756 Hwy 93/95, Windermere, B.C. V0B 2L2 Phone: 250-342-6500 • Fax: 250-342-3484

Fraser Elrick • 250-688-1271

LANDSCAPING

PHARMACIES

LAMBERT-KIPP

THE COLUMBIA VALLEY’S TREE CARE SPECIALISTS WINDERMERE, BC 250-341-7029

GOLDEN, BC 250-344-0188

P H A R M A C Y ( 2 0 1 9 ) LT D .

Come in and browse our giftware

GET YOUR QUOTE AT WWW.GREENLEAFTREE.CA INFO@GREENLEAFTREE.CA

Irena Shepard, B.Sc. (Pharm.)., Émilie Lamoureux, Pharm D., Laura Kipp, Pharm D. Your Compounding Pharmacy

Open Monday – Saturday, 9 a.m. - 6 p.m. and Sunday, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

R O O T E D I N T H E C O L U M B I A VA L L E Y S I N C E 2 0 0 7

1301 - 7th Avenue, Invermere

250-342-6612

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

N E W S PA P E R

May 6, 2021

The Columbia Valley Pioneer • 15

HERE TO SERVE YOU INSURANCE

INSURANCE

CONTRACTING

Big Cat Painting INSURANCE AGENCIES LTD.

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

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

www.kootenayinsurance.ca CONTRACTING

BOX 459 7553 MAIN STREET RADIUM HOT SPRINGS, BC V0A 1M0 P: 250-347-9350 F: 250-347-6350 TOLL FREE: 1-866-342-3031

For all your painting needs!

250-688-9418 • www.bigcatpainting.ca Serving the East Kootenay area!

CONTRACTING

Specializing in all heating, electric, gas and wood.

House Doctors Contracting Custom Kitchens, Bathrooms and Interior Renovations

• Trusses • Engineered Floors • Wall Panels Tel: 250.341.6075 Fax: 250.341.3427 Email: info@duskbuildingsystems.com www.duskbuildingsystems.com

1320 Industrial Road #3 Box 159, Invermere, B.C. V0A 1K0

There’s a new ‘Sucker’ in town!

Vacuum/ Septic tank pumping

Slurpy

housedoctorcontracting@yahoo.com

Registered ROWP Serving all areas from Wasa to Golden

MOUNTAIN RIDGE HYDROVAC & SEWER 250-342-1502 • 250-342-1551

Dave Drouin – 519-995-1630 Mike Shelson – 519-566-9745

www.hd-contracting.ca

Patryk Jagiello

• Fireplaces • Commercial and residential • New builds • Renovations.

A licensed, registered and bonded company

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

INTERIOR • EXTERIOR • WALL COVERINGS

Gary’s

Seniors Discounts

Professional Painting & Decorating Ltd. 1978

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

(250) 270-0345 in Calgary since 2002 in Invermere since 2004

Patco Developments Ltd. PROFESSIONAL PAINTERS

CONCRETE

We also offer roundthe-clock service calls.

CUSTOM WOOD FINISHING FAUX FINISHES JOURNEYMAN RED SEAL

FREE Estimates

403-650-4622 • garysptg@gmail.com

Kekuli Bay Cabinetry kekulibaycabinetry.com

• Ready Mix Concrete • Commercial concrete sealer • Concrete Pumping retarder for exposed • Over 50 colours available aggregate and in stock • DELIVERED ON TIME • Concrete stamps for rent at a fair price • Full range of coloured release • Full range of sand and agents for stamping gravel products.

Phone: 250-342-5833 • Cell: 250-270-9444

All products are available at 9120, Hwy 93/95 which is five kilometres north of Tim Hortons

Products and Services Available 7 Days a Week Concrete Sales ~ Concrete Pump ~ Sand and Gravel Sales

CO NC R E T E

250-341-7474

• Foundations to Finishing • Flat Work • Driveways • Patios • Stamped and Exposed Aggregate Concrete • Sidewalks • Garages • Foundations • Excavation • Site Preparation • Utility Installation

• Authorized dealer • Designer • Installer

Dale Elliott Contracting

25 years experience installing cabinets Custom Woodwork and Finishing Serving the Columbia Valley for over 40 years.

dale@decontracting.ca • 250-341-7098 Your Weekly Source for News and Events

Electrical and Bedding Sand ~ $9/tonne

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

N E W S PA P E R

Amanda Murray Office Administrator/ Sales

#8, 1008 - 8th Avenue PO Box 868, Invermere, B.C. V0A 1K0 Ph: 250-341-6299 ext: 101 www.columbiavalleypioneer.com amanda@columbiavalleypioneer.com

Here to Serve You Advertising 250-341-6299

16 • The Columbia Valley Pioneer

May 6, 2021

Groundswell Plant Sale Saturdays May 8 & 15, 2021

11 am - 3 pm

Groundswell Community Greenhouse TOMATOES HERBS VARIETY OF VEGETABLES SPECIAL SELECTION OF FLOWERS

Beyondbnb extends its services to the valley

By Camille Aubin camille@columbiavalleypioneer.com

All proceeds support your community greenhouse & gardens

Cash - Cheque - E-transfer preferred Social Distancing protocols in effect.

Saturday , May 8,

2021

Groundswell Community Greenhouse

Keep up to date and join the conversation on FB.

Receive a companion planting chart along with an Annual Membership brochure. Submit your Membership by May 31, 2021 and be entered to WIN a Groundswell T-shirt and complimentary tour of our Passive Solar Greenhouse & outdoor gardens.

Like us at www.facebook.com/ Groundswell.Network

For all your advertising needs, call Amanda at 250-341-6299

N E W S PA P E R

Based on the success of the Ferniebnb company, which opened in 2018 and has grown to more than a hundred listings, Beyondbnb now extends its services to the Columbia Valley.

“We provide all the services to operating a successful rental for owners,” explained Beyondbnb entrepreneur Ryland Nelson.

For short, medium or long-term rentals in Invermere, Panorama, Radium Hot Springs and Fairmont, Benyondbnb offers rental management services. These services include guest communications, cleaning and laundry, supplies replenishment, pricing and maintenance coordination.

“We are a high-tech company. We use a lot of automation. All the latest and the greatest technologies allow us to be much more streamlined and efficient, which allows us to offer our services for a very great value,” said Nelson.

A management fee ranges from 5 to 20 per cent, and that fee, explained Nelson, ensures quality control and the high standards set with his first branch in Fernie.

Because of the COVID-19 pandemic, there is an extra cleaning phase to disinfect everything.

With a 24/7 call center in Fernie, Beyondbnb renters

and owners can get assistance with any of their properties or guests’ requirements at any time. Here in Invermere that assisstance comes from Beyondbnb’s local Invermere partner Mark Kline.

No contract or commitment is required to do business with Beyondbnb. “It is very flexible, and it can be done for every length of time. Maybe a local is going away for a holiday and are able to rent their place out for few weeks, or a month. We can take on those kinds of short-time projects within the legal framework of the area,” said Nelson.

With fewer bookings, Nelson believes that the offseason is the ideal time to begin working with the company, which gives them enough time to set up everything and take photos of the property.

Nelson’s goal is to help to increase tourism in the area. “In Fernie, we’ve helped the tourism economy grow in the community because we’ve opened up all these new rentals that were previously not being utilized for shortterm rentals. Especially in those peaks, holidays and weekends when it’s 100 per cent occupancy in town, it’s limiting the tourism potential and so if we are able to bring new, previously never-rented units that are going to increase that maximum capacity in the tourism market here,” explained Nelson.

For more information, visit beyondbnb.ca or call Mark Kline at 778-761-5660.

HERE TO SERVE YOU CONCRETE

CONCRETE

READY MIX CONCRETE

Columbia Concrete Inc.

Concrete Pump • Sand & Gravel Heavy Equipment Rentals • Crane Service

20 years’ experience • Anything concrete!

• • • •

Basements Garage pads Driveways Patios

• • • •

Decorative Exposed Stamped concrete Acid staining

WE RESEAL CONCRETE

250-688-3739 I N

P U R S U I T

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

Serving the Columbia Valley

O F

EXCELLENCE Skandia Concrete • Manufacturers & suppliers of quality concrete & gravel products • Experienced, professional operators and the right equipment to get your job done • Serving the valley for over 30 years

Proudly Serving the Valley for over 50 years

• Environmentally responsible • Steamed aggregate beds for top quality year-round concrete supply • We stand behind our service, quality and products

1756 Hwy 93/95 Windermere B.C. Office: 250-342-6500 • Toll Free: 1-888-341-2221

CARPET CLEANING

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

TILE AND GROUT CLEANING Business: 250-342-9692

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

Cell: 250-342-1273

ptarmiganrugclean@gmail.com

Call NOW:

250-688-0213

Got a beef?

Write a letter to the editor. Email letters to info@columbiavalleypioneer.com .

• Carpets dry in 1 hour • Environmentally friendly products • Disinfectant kills COVID-19 • Fresh clean scent – no steam • Area rugs and upholstery • Protector • 100% guarantee • Prompt reliable service Visit www.heavensbest.com for more information

May 6, 2021

The Columbia Valley Pioneer • 17

P ioneer C lassifieds

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

NOTE: Cheers Without Tears has replaced Cheers & Jeers ~ Let’s highlight the positive!

ANNOUNCEMENT Al & Mary Tristram Anniversary 66 yrs.

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 WITHOUT TEARS Cheers to Dr Mannheimer for his leadership - taking the time to administer vaccines as part of the mass community immunizations is not unnoticed.

Much appreciation for all that you’re doing.

Cheers to those people who tip their service staff! My sons piggy bank is a very happy camper!

Great big Cheers to Canfor for donating lots of lumber so we can build more rental beds at Groundswell and Mt Nelson Community Gardens. Much appreciated!

Cheers To Columbia Valley Well and Pump Service Ltd. for the free delivery of the lumber Canfor donated to Groundswell and Mt. Nelson Community Gardens. Much appreciated!

Cheers to Alexandra Brunner for putting others before yourself. Your thoughtfulness is greatly appreciated, all of us at Chisel Peak Medical Clinic will remember your kindness as we slip on our socks.

CHEERS WITHOUT TEARS

LOST AND FOUND

Cheers to Maxine at local day care for teaching kids rhymes and songs while attending them very well in the lovely outdoor play area. You are a gem in our community whether you are finishing furniture or caring for youth.

FOUND: Amazon Prime delivery for Francis Cote to the wrong address. If you are missing an Amazon Prime delivery expecting April 23/21, contact me at 1-403-875-7329 and identify and I’ll tell you how you can come pick it up.

Cheers to the lovely Alexandra Brunner, who turned a gift given to her into a gift she gave to others. Your thoughtfulness and generosity were so appreciated.

Stay safe and healthy!

Cheers to Dale at Copper Point Resort for the golf lesson. I am golf happy again.

CHEERS to Radium Canfor for their generous donation of lumber to Groundswell Community Greenhouse & Gardens allowing us to build more raised beds, Don Stober of Columbia Valley Well and Pump Service for hauling the lumber and Columbia Valley Freight for helping us unload and receive a commercial fridge!

Cheers to all the wonderful people who call this town home

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 Personal Real Estate Corporation

Rockies West Realty Independently owned and operated

Please email classified ads to info@columbiavalleypioneer.com

LOT/ACREAGE FOR SALE

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

1-250-426-4445.

COMMERCIAL SPACE

Invermere Downtown FOR LEASE PREMISES 2,400 square feet of Commercial zoned C-1 space, 9-foot ceilings, east-facing with generous private parking.

- Location: 712 -10th Street, UNIT “D” street level, bounded on two sides by roadways.

- Includes 4 offices, sales/ board meeting room, generous open space with divider, storage room.

- Equipped with 2 washrooms and a kitchen area.

- BC Hydroelectric forced air with auxiliary heat pump.

- Two separate entrances, OPTIONALITY: The space can divide to accommodate two businesses.

Contact: M&B Properties 250-341-1940 or bruce@brucem.com

CONDO FOR SALE

MISC. FOR SALE

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.

0.74 ct. Canadian diamond ring and band set. Mounted in platinum & laser engraved to verify certification. $2,500. Text 250-688-1581.

For Sale: The content from Blacksmith Welding Shop.

Anvils, forges, welders, hammers, tongs etc. 2031 - 13th Ave. 250-270-0698.

ZEHNDER BEEF Natural local beef, free of antibiotics and hormones.

Government inspected, locally processed. Raised on the open range west of Lake Windermere.

Now taking orders for Halves and Quarters. Call John Zehnder 250-688-0713.

SERVICES B.B.’s Home & Lawn Care Services Renovations/Plumbing/House Repairs, Moving, Dump runs.

House Checks/Cleaning, Spring/ Yard Clean-up, Eavestroughs.

Tree removal. 250-688-2897.

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

LEGAL NOTICES

Court Bailiff Land Sale

Lot 14, Pedley Heights Drive, Windermere; PID 027 170 969.

For information contact Canada West Court Bailiff, 250-545-7333

WANTED A local artist and woodworker is looking for a double garage or shop to rent in Radium, Invermere, Windermere or Fairmont. Preferably with 220 electrical service. Ideal size would be between 750 - 1500 square feet. Willing to share a space as well. Call Don 1-403875-3587.

RV FOR SALE For Sale 2000 25’ Vanguard 5th Wheel, very good condition, low mileage, not licenced for 6 years, stored inside most winters, 9.6” slide in living room, sleeps 6.

Asking $7450. Can be seen at 1536 10th St. Invermere. Phone 250-342-3935 or huntaz@ cyberlink.ca.

D L SO

SERVICES Buy your piece of the Invermere Valley before prices go nuts!

Top Floor unit, 2-bedroom, 1 bath 825 sq. ft., In suite laundry, Warm Sunny balcony, Mountain views, Lots of parking, low low condo fee’s, Small complex (20 units) with large treed site area. Awesome location only steps to Downtown and the Beach, currently rented for $1000.00, PRICED TO SELL AT $195,000 Call 403-4027505 or email rjfaulds1@ gmail.com.

Come see Krysta Larsen R.TCM.P to help treat your pain, anxiety, menstrual irregularities, sports injuries and much more. The clinic offers direct billing to a variety of insurance companies, as well motor vehicle claims through ICBC.

Located at #304 - 1313 7th Ave. Book online at www.silverfernacupuncture.ca

NOW OPEN!

CLASSIFIED DEADLINE: Monday at noon

Call us today to place your classified advertisement.

N E W S PA P E R

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

18 • The Columbia Valley Pioneer

SERVICES

HELP WANTED

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!

Pike Contracting Excavating and Skid Steer services.

Call Jason 250-342-5277.

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 AARON’S HOME SERVICES -Lawn Care -Yard Cleans -Power Washing 250-342-9222 PROFESSIONAL STUMP GRINDING Free quotes Reasonable rates 1-403-703-4492.

HELP WANTED Everett Frater Enterprises now hiring Lawn maintenance employees for Mon-Fri, weekends off. Call 250-3425645.

HELP WANTED

HELP WANTED

General Carpenter Finish Carpenter Jack of All Trades If you are looking for a change, or a new start, The Home Renovation Centre is looking to add some new, permanent staff to our team. Transportation is required. Call David 250-3425682.

Crossroads Market Now Hiring!

Opportunities for all positions Night-time Supervisors, Deli Clerks and Cashiers. Above average wage packages offered.

Both full and part-time positions available. High season bonus packages from May through September for all staff. Pleasant and customer service-oriented individuals please. Call 778526-5085 or email resume to kgtlit2020@gmail.com.

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.

Geoff Hill PREC* REALTOR® Fair Realty

Rigid Plumbing is looking for both an Experienced Journeyman Plumber and Labourer. Call 250-341-5179.

250-341-7600

www.geoffhill.ca The Heartfelt Companion is hiring an associate to provide nonmedical services to seniors.

If you have a big, kind heart and truly appreciate the company of seniors please call 250341-5683 for more info. Only those available on short notice from Monday - Friday will be considered. This is a permanent casual or part time position.

Approximately 4 - 12 hours/ week.

May 6, 2021 Help 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.

JOIN OUR TEAM GREENHOUSE & GARDEN INTERN STUDENT POSITIONS (GR 12 - POST SECONDARY) 30 HRS/WK – WEEKEND WORK INCLUDED STARTS: POSITION 1 – ASAP, POSITION 2 IN JUNE GARDENING SKILLS AN ASSET. WORK WITH PLANTS, PEOPLE, THE EARTH AND OTHER DUTIES. SEND RESUME TO: INFO@GROUNDSWELLNETWORK.CA

GROUNDS HELP Terravista in Windermere is looking for some help to maintain its grounds.

April 1st to September 15th.

Competitive wages. Students welcome!

Please send your resume to terravistagm@gmail.com with “grounds help” listed as the subject.

Local Journalism Incentive Multi Cultural Affairs Reporter

The Columbia Valley Pioneer is looking for a full-time Multi Cultural Affairs Reporter for our news operation based in Invermere. We operate a daily news site, columbiavalleypioneer.com, and a weekly print publication.

The successful candidate must work well in a team setting, but is self-motivated. You will be responsible to write multiple news stories every week for print and on-line publication, take photographs to accompany stories, attend community events and layout pages (all while respecting Social Distancing requirements).

Fairmont Vacation Villas Mountainside

(855) 345-6341or mountainsidevillas.com Fairmont Villa Management is now hiring

Housekeepers for their busy Summer and Fall season.

We offer year-round employment, with a wage of $18-$19 per hour depending on experience, and a generous benefits package after 3 months.

We are also accepting part-time and student applications.

All positions involve working weekends. Must be reliable, Have own transportation, a strong work ethic and the Ability to work in a fast-paced team environment.

If this sounds like you, we look forward to receiving your application/resume.

Contact Lynn Brunelle at 250 345-6341 Fax Att: Lynn 250 345-6299 Or email: HSKPmgr@msvillas.com

Qualifications • Journalism education: degree, diploma or certificate; or equivalent work experience.

• Valid driver’s license and reliable vehicle.

• Experience in InDesign, Photoshop, and posting to social media.

• Well organized with good attention to detail.

• An open mind, a positive attitude, and a desire to both learn about and serve the larger community.

The position is a one-year contract and is available immediately, although the date can be flexible for the right candidate. If necessary the company can assist with relocation costs.

Interested candidates should forward their resume to Amanda Nason, Associate Publisher/Sales Manager: advertising@columbiavalleypioneer.com

N E W S PA P E R

The company offers competitive benefit and pension plans. The position is based in our office at 8 – 1008, 8th Ave Invermere, B.C.

WANTED!

Licensed Automotive Mechanic or Third or Fourth Year Apprentice Full-time, year-round. Experienced in all aspects of automotive repair, possess a full set of tools, a valid drivers license and must be reliable. We offer competitive wages, clean comfortable surroundings, hoists with all specialty tools, uniforms (and laundered) included as well as a benefit package.

Email your resume to k5mech@shaw.ca or stop in to see Richard or Fred 3 - 140 Industrial Rd #2, Invermere, B.C.

May 6, 2021

The Columbia Valley Pioneer • 19

HELP WANTED

COVID-19 Community Liaison Secwepemc Health Caucus Reporting directly to the Shuswap Indian Band Health Director and supporting five Health Directors virtually in the Lakes Areas, the Community Liaison provides support to communities to enhance culturally safe COVID-19 mitigation measures, community preparedness, and response capacity. The Community Liaison role assists leadership, of the Sub-Region, Family, Nation, Community, or Health Service Organization to which they are assigned, through effective engagement with community members, and health partners including the First Nations Health Authority (FNHA) and Regional Health Authority (Interior Health). In addition, they use their local knowledge and context about the community, family units, structures and processes in the region to ensure that needs arising from the COVID-19 pandemic are being addressed in a manner that is relevant to the community context.

• • • • • • • • •

Demonstrated ability to maintain the confidentiality of sensitive information Ability to organize and plan own work Ability to be flexible and meet changing priorities Good verbal and written skills including the ability to keep clean notes and action items Ability to take initiative, problem-solve and make decisions within the job scope.

Ability to efficiently and effectively utilize Microsoft Office Suite including Word, Outlook, PowerPoint, and Excel.

Strong ability to collaborate with others and work well in a team.

Valid BC Driver’s license and access to a reliable vehicle.

Must be able to work flexible hours and travel as required.

SKILLS & ABILITIES: • Familiar with Secwepemc culture and traditions.

• In-depth knowledge of First Nations health and wellness systems.

• In-depth knowledge of FNHA and IHA, the BC health care system, and the current landscape of First Nations health in BC, preferably with a focus on the current pandemic.

RESPONSIBILITIES INCLUDE: • Experience in promoting and educating basic infection prevention and control practices related to • Distributing community-relevant COVID-19 education to ensure individuals and families understand pandemics COVID-19 precautions.

• Experience in inventory, ordering, and distribution of community Personal Protective Equipment • Promoting basic infection prevention and control practices to prevent COVID-19 transmission.

• The ability to work collaboratively with the community’s health officials and Interior Health • Acting as a direct resource to the community – answering or responding to questions from members.

COVID-19 Contact Tracers to support culturally safe contact tracing services.

• Assisting in identifying accommodations in and around the community for potential self-isolation, and/or surge capacity.

TERMS AND CONDITIONS • Assisting in developing and supporting food security supports.

• Full-time position (32.5 hours per week) Monday to Friday.

• Facilitating access to community resources and providing information on community services such as • 1-Year contract harm reduction and mental health and wellness programs.

• Must adhere to the Shuswap Indian Band Human Resources Policy and Procedure Manual • Assisting in ordering, receiving, and distributing personal protective equipment.

(Approved April 4, 2018).

• Developing and maintaining strong working partnerships with communities, health care providers, • Must adhere to the Shuswap Indian Band Financial policies and procedures (October 24, 2017). health system partners and relevant organizations to support coordinated care.

• Require three (3) recent work references.

• Engaging with the communities’ away-from-home population/families.

• Salary to be based on experience.

• Working collaboratively with communities and RHA COVID-19 contact tracers to support culturally safe contact tracing services as per the process between the RHA and community.

Only those selected for an interview will be contacted. Preference will be given to persons of • Assisting primary health providers in monitoring designated community members via phone daily Aboriginal ancestry as per Section 16 (1) of the Canadian Human Rights Act. Appointment to this to ensure that holistic needs are being met and isolation plans are being maintained. position will require a formal criminal record check, the details of which may preclude an offer of • Providing regular reporting on services provided. employment being finalized.

• Performing other related duties as assigned.

QUALIFICATIONS • Grade 12 or equivalent • Recent and relevant experience (2-4 years or more) working in a health services environment or an appropriate combination of education and experience.

• Ability to work overtime as needed (preferred)

To apply, please submit your resume, cover letter, and references to 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: Monday, May 17th, 2021.

HELP WANTED

Administrative/ Logistics Assistant Eagle-Eye Tours is based in Windermere and is Canada’s largest birding tour operator, offering 50+ tours worldwide each year. To keep the show on the road, we need someone who can handle correspondence with our clients and help pull these tours off without a hitch. This is a long-term position where we can discuss your preferred number of hours/week (20+). You will have a variety of tasks to keep you busy from researching hotels in Australia to responding to clients interested in visiting the Arctic. This job requires that you can manage multiple projects simultaneously.

Core responsibilities include: • Client correspondence (inquiries, invoicing, etc.)

• Website and database maintenance • Logistics (booking of hotels, vehicles and flights) Requirements include: • Strong computer skills (Word, Excel, email) • Ability to work independently • Excellent customer service skills • Excellent communication skills (written & oral) • Rigorous attention to detail and strong organizational skills • Ability to manage competing priorities • An interest in travel We offer a competitive wage, benefits, flexibility, interesting work, and a collegial positive work environment. We are all working remotely right now, but plan that some or all of this work would be in our office in the future.

We anticipate work beginning late May. Please submit your resume and a brief story about a personal travel experience by noon on May 11th to Cam via travel@eagle-eye.com.

Ph: 250-342-8640.

Eagle-Eye Tours

Mental Health Outreach Worker

• Ability to work evenings as needed • Demonstrated ability to maintain the confidentiality of sensitive information • Ability to organize and plan own work • Ability to be flexible and meet changing priorities • Good verbal and written skills including the ability to keep clean notes and action items • Ability to take initiative, problem-solve and make decisions within the job scope Outreach or support workers in integrated community services teams specialize in supporting people • Valid BC Driver’s license and access to a reliable vehicle. with long-term mental health problems. They help them adapt to ordinary life within the community by SKILLS & ABILITIES: developing coping skills rather than being institutionalized in a hospital or hostel, within a framework of • Familiar with Secwepemc culture and traditions. positive consultation and joint planning.

• In-depth knowledge of First Nations health and wellness systems.

• An understanding of mental health issues • Good interpersonal skills • Effective written and verbal communication • Capable of maintaining appropriate written records • Awareness of confidentiality and adhering to confidentiality policies • Able to work on your own initiative as well as part of a team • Awareness of health and safety issues for others and self • A caring nature RESPONSIBILITIES INCLUDE: • Ability to follow instructions as part of a planned program of care • Attending the homes of identified individuals/families to carry out duties and tasks as specified in • Awareness of equalities legislation the care plan designed to enable a good degree of independent living. For example: going with the client to collect welfare benefits or a pension.

TERMS AND CONDITIONS • Listening to and considering what both the client and caregiver would like to do and helping them as • Part-time position - 19.5 hours per week best they can.

• May require evening shifts to support with groups and community events • Identifying deterioration in clients, enabling action to be taken to help them. For example: assisting • Will be required to work alongside our clinical counsellor and follow case management plans as with physical care such as activities of daily living, cooking, etc. outlined.

• Monitoring and overseeing any medication prescribed by qualified medical practitioners and check- • Must adhere to the Shuswap Indian Band Human Resources Policy and Procedure Manual ing for any changes that have been made in dosage.

(Approved April 4, 2018).

• Providing a safe environment for those who need long-term supervision and support.

• Must adhere to the Shuswap Indian Band Financial policies and procedures (October 24, 2017).

• Helping the client with the preparation of meals, shopping, cleaning, and laundry.

• Require three (3) recent work references.

• Noting any significant changes in the client’s health, outlook, and behaviour; referring upwards for • Salary to be based on experience. advice about what action to take.

Only those selected for an interview will be contacted. Preference will be given to persons of • Assisting in any assessment procedures.

• Providing regular verbal and written reports to the clinical counsellor and community nurse; raising 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 any issues about any alteration in the client’s family circumstances.

• Facilitating and supporting community meetings and activities to enhance community employment being finalized. engagement.

The Mental Health Outreach Worker will provide help and relieve stress for persons with enduring mental health problems and are responsible to the Health Director. They will also provide the same sort of support to the caregiver. This will involve the provision of personal, social and domestic care, training and opportunities to engage in meaningful activities and experiences at home and within the local community. They will work closely with all members of the community team to enable their clients to continue living in the community with comfort and dignity. The overall aim is to improve the quality of life of people who have mental health difficulties and prevent inappropriate admissions to the hospital.

QUALIFICATIONS • Grade 12 or equivalent • At least 1 year of recent and relevant experience working and caring for people with mental health problems • Willingness to undertake further training

To apply, please submit your resume, cover letter, and references to 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: Monday, May 17th, 2021

Brainard Custom Contracting is growing again!

Now is your chance to join an amazing locally born and raised company, right here in the Columbia Valley!

We are hiring for Skilled Labourers to join our team.

Wages will be negotiated between $25-$40/hour, depending on experience.

What we have to Offer YOU: • Top wages in the valley • Optional personal/family benefit plan • Fun, no-stress workdays • Monday to Friday, no weekends • Flexible schedule to assist with personal and family needs • An employer that respects and values you!

What you need to Offer US: • Must be reliable and respect hard work • Must want to be part of a team and have a great attitude • Must have own vehicle for work within the Columbia Valley Please email list of qualifications to BrainardCustom@gmail.com We look forward to working with you!

Our weekly What’s Happening page features local events around the Valley.

Have your event added by visiting www.cvevents.ca or email info@columbiavalleypioneer.com

20 • The Columbia Valley Pioneer

FAITH

Go beyond your mind

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

Branching Out

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

h e Pioneer ca T n

!

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

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

Have you ever tried seeing how long you can stand on one foot? Made it for a few seconds? A similar challenge is to see how long we can be aware of something, or just be aware, without thinking. I can still only make it for a few seconds.

Just pure awareness, no thoughts. After a few seconds, for me, thoughts come rushing back in. This means I’m not 100 per cent aware anymore, because now I’m in my head thinking, even of something else. I know I’m safe admitting this, because I know it’s the common human condition, to think a lot.

Sometimes I think so much that I make myself upset, or anxious, or depressed. I don’t like these feelings, so I try to make myself feel better by thinking more (I’m not aware of this, because I’m thinking instead of being aware). I do this because I want to be a responsible person and solve my problems and fix things. But I keep doing the very thing that is causing me to feel bad.

I liken it to playing my way out of a “tennis elbow.”

Tennis elbow is inflammation of the tendons from overuse. One thing we are supposed to do with tennis elbow is to stop the activity and rest the tendons. A part of us, though, may think this will take too long, or is for wimps,

so we try to “play through” the pain, thinking the elbow will get with the program.

Of course, using the mind is a good thing if it is done well. It’s like a tool that serves a purpose. Pick it up, use it well, put it down again. That would be great. But what if we can never put it down or turn it off? What if the mind is like a power saw and, if we can’t put it down or turn it off, every where we go, we cut things up? That would be dysfunctional.

There are beautiful, meaningful pointers, in the Bible and outside the Bible, toward another state beyond thinking. “Be still and know that I am God.” “Don’t be anxious for tomorrow.” “Be like the flowers and the birds and trust that all is well and will be well.” “Let go and let God.” “This too shall pass.” “Live and let live.” “Turn your will and your life over to a power greater than yourself.” “Come unto me, all you who labour and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest.” “Overcome the world by the renewal of your mind.”

The word “conversion” in the Bible comes from the Greek word “metanoia.” It literally means to “go beyond the mind that you have.” What would it mean to go beyond the mind that we have? It might feel like death, because we don’t know who we are if we’re not in our usual mind. It might, however, mean that we become more aware. How lovely. If the loss of thinking means the gain of awareness, that would be a good trade. Perhaps if we understand the principle, all that is left is the practice.

Planting too deep - Episode 2

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

your message is resonating with residents and visitors alike.

May 6, 2021

www.columbiavalleypioneer.com

By Dave Meadows Pioneer Columnist In the March 11 publication of Branching Out, I began the conversation of Planting too Deep, describing the three (3) leading causes of tree decline and death; deep structural roots, stem girdling roots (SGR) and poor root architecture.

If we understand that trees are planted too deep, how can we help ‘Get the roots right’ when planting trees in the landscape?

First, let’s describe a tree’s root flare, root collar or trunk flare, all of which are the same.

The root flare is the transition zone from trunk to roots where the trunk expands into the buttress or structural roots. Another definition is the flared area at the tree trunk base, where roots and trunk come together.

The root flare must be planted above ground or at grade level. If you notice a tree planted without the distinctive flare above ground, the tree’s trunk will look like a straight ‘stovepipe’ entering the ground. This is the telltale sign of a tree planted too deep. i.e., no trunk flare evident.

Step 1 is to locate the flare on a tree, regardless of whether the tree is in a plastic or peat pot, B&B or bare root tree specimen. Roots of evergreens are more difficult to detect but can be done properly if exposed gently and correctly.

Secondly, never dig the hole deeper than the distance from the root flare to the bottom of the soil ball. In addition, the hole should be at least three times wider than the root ball. This will allow lateral roots to ‘knit’ in the backfilled soil easily.

Some people believe that digging deep holes allows the soil to be improved with loam, but in fact, loam filled holes create two problems; poor drainage and a sinking tree. As the loam breaks down through decomposition, the tree sinks deeper into the hole! Always try to backfill with the same ‘native’ soil that was removed from the hole, as it is the same texture of the surrounding soil.

Other factors to consider are that trees planted in containers or pots, have 100 percent of the tree’s roots.

Trees sold as B&B (Balled & Burlapped) have significantly fewer roots, at only 5 per cent! Potted trees have roots that encircle the pot and require more teasing to straighten out and lead to more SGR (roots that wrap around the trunk).

Tree species most susceptible to SGR are Maples, Lindens, Spruce, Pines, Russian Olives, Oaks and certain Chokecherries and Crabapples.

As previously suggested, visit the folAspen tree. Submitted photo lowing link to the US Forest Service for a pdf guide with more visual aids on tree planting and tree maintenance operations: https://www.fs.usda.gov/Internet/FSE_DOCUMENTS/stelprdb5368392.pdf