Columbia Valley Pioneer September 23, 2021 by Columbia Valley Pioneer

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Your Weekly Source for News and Events

The Columbia Valley Pioneer • 1

September 23, 2021

The Columbia Valley

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2 • The Columbia Valley Pioneer

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September 23, 2021

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GREAT GAS

With a light dusting of snow on the Fairmont Range, a solitary rowboat is the only craft to be found on Lake Windermere on Monday evening.

Birds are back! Specifically, migratory birds are back in the Columbia wetlands habitat, as they migrate along the Pacific flyway.

With the summer the Columbia Valley had, cyclists and golfers, are both making the most of the cooler weather and remaining evening daylight. And some are even biking to the range and courses - like these two guys at The Springs in Radium!

While there were significantly fewer cars in the Valley this past weekend, in the absence of the Columbia Valley Classics Car Show, you will very likely find a muscle car - like this 1968 Chevelle SS - or two in front of the Horsethief Pub on weekends, until these toys get stored away for winter.

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September 23, 2021

The Columbia Valley Pioneer • 3

VALLEY NEWS

Incumbent Conservative MP re-elected in Kootenay Columbia Rob Morrison for second term after federal election keeps status quo By Steve Hubrecht steve@columnbiavalleypioneer.com The more things change, the more they stay the same. The federal election earlier this week ushered in a political scenario that is pretty much exactly what it was prior to the election, both here in Kootenay Columbia and across Canada. In Kootenay Columbia, incumbent Conservative MP Rob Morrison has been re-elected to a second term as the riding’s representative in Ottawa, and, locally, the vote share percentage for the three candidates with the most votes was almost identical to what it was in the last federal election in 2019. To further heighten voters’ sense of deja vu, not only was the vote share the same, but those three candidates themselves were the same ones that had run the last time around (finishing in the exact same order in 2021 as they did in 2019). The reported tally from the Monday, Sept. 20 vote in Kootenay Columbia did not include the 4,300 mail-in ballots cast in the riding (which should be counted by the end of this week), but those will not change the overall result since Morrison is already ahead by more than 4,600 votes, so on Tuesday, Sept. 21 Stetski called Morrison to congratulate him on his victory. Morrison garnered more than 26,800 votes (44 per cent of the total) during in-person voting, as compared with slightly more than 21,400 (36 per cent) for NDP candidate Wayne Stetski. Liberal candidate Robin Goldsbury was third with almost 5,500 votes (nine per cent), PPC candidate (and Invermere resident) Sarah Bennet was fourth with more than 4,3100 votes (seven per cent),

and Green Party candidate Rana Nelson was fifth with 2,400 votes (four per cent). In the 2019 election, Rob Morrison won with 44 per cent of the vote, defeating then-incumbent Stetski (34 per cent), Goldsbury (nine per cent), then-Green candidate Abra Brynne (nine per cent), then-PPC candidate Rick Steward (two per cent), and Animal Protection candidate Trev Miller (0.5 per cent). Federally, almost nothing changed either, and the Liberals will again form a minority government after wining (or as of press time leading in) 158 seats in the House of Commons. The Conservative have won or are leading in 119 seats, the Bloc Québécois 34 seats, the NDP 25 seats, and the Greens two seats. In the 2019 election, the Liberal won 157 seats, the Conservatives 121 seats, the Bloc Québécois 32, the NDP 24, and the Greens two. The biggest change in vote percentage on both the federal and local level came from the PPC, which won no seats, but nearly tripled its vote share from 1.6 per cent nationally in 2019 to roughly 4.5 per cent this year. That trend was reflected locally, with Bennett taking the parties vote share in Kootenay Columbia from two per cent in 2019 to seven per cent this election. Morrison told the Pioneer that the razor thin Kootenay Columbia election of 2015 led to a great bit of uncertainty across the board heading in the 2019 election, but that going into this election “we always knew it would be a tough race, but there was a sense of confidence that came from having helped thousands of local residents, in a nonpartisan way, with federal government issues over the past few years. That builds your confidence that people will vote based on the results you’ve delivered as an

MP, and that’s what I think we’ve ended up.” He said it might be that, after a variety of unique factors affected the 2015 election (antipathy toward then Prime Minster Steven Harper, new riding boundaries, a local Liberal candidate who managed to poll more than double the typical Kootenay Columbia Liberal vote share), the similar vote tallies in the 2019 and 2021 elections could reflect a sort of status quo for Kootenay Columbia. While Morrison is disappointed with the federal results, he is eager to get back to work in Ottawa, where he vowed to push hard on issues critical to Kootenay Columbia, including infrastructure funding, an electric train, and helping the local tourism industry by trying to open national borders to fully vaccinated international visitors and by reinvigorating the temporary foreign worker program. The Pioneer attempted to contact Stetski for his comments on the election results but was unable to reach him prior to press deadline. Stetski pointed out that, in terms of the sheer number of votes, the gap between him and Morrison was closer this time than in 2019, which he was happy about, “but overall, of course, I’m disappointed not to be able to represent Kootenay Columbia again. The voting this time really did show the cultural divide between the West Kootenay, where we did really well, and the East Kootenay, where the vote was more variable. But that difference has always been there.” Continued on page 23...

Closure of 13th Avenue creates traffic issues By Steve Hubrecht steve@columbiavalleypioneer.com Upgrades for sewer and other infrastructure on 13th Avenue have plenty of Invermere residents talking this fall, in part because 13th Avenue is one of the district’s major east-west thoroughfares, and its closure during the upgrades has funnelled all traffic heading through the southwestern end of the community along

15th Avenue. This has resulted in considerable extra traffic flow along 15th Avenue, most noticeably during morning and afternoon school bus hours at Eileen Madson Primary School (EMP). Councillor Gerry Taft, who has a son at EMP, gave voice to the issue at the most recent Invermere council meeting on Tuesday, Sept. 14, asking if the project has fallen behind its scheduled timelines and if the 13th

Avenue would actually be paved this year. Invermere chief administrative officer Andrew Young replied that the contractor doing the work has every obligation to finish this fall, and that he had spoken with the contractor the day prior (Monday, Sept. 13) to the meeting and that the contractor has secured asphalt for the paving. Continued on page 8...

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4 • The Columbia Valley Pioneer

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FIRE CHIEF The Village is seeking a Fire Chief who will be responsible for the overall supervision and management of the Radium Hot Springs Fire Department. The job description is available upon request at the email below.

September 23, 2021

RCMP Report Submitted by Sgt. Darren Kakuno Detachment Commander Columbia Valley RCMP This past week, Sept. 13 through Sept. 19, the Columbia Valley RCMP responded to 81 calls for service. The following is a summary of some of the files our officers responded to. On Friday, Sept. 17, at about 9:30 a.m., police received a report that an adult male stole two water jugs from a grocery store in Invermere. An officer conducted patrols of the area and located the male suspect near a bus stop. The male was arrested for possession of stolen property, and the water jugs were returned to the grocery store. On Friday, Sept. 17, at about 4:23 p.m., emergency crews responded to a two vehicle collision on Highway 93/95 near Radium Hot Springs. Through the investigation, it was learned the driver of a southbound Hyundai Kona had slowed for traffic when a Hyundai Santa Fe collided into the rear of the Hyundai Kona. The driver of the Hyundai Santa Fe was issued a violation ticket for following too closely. On Friday, Sept. 17, sometime between 11 a.m. and 8 p.m., a yellow Suzuki RM 125 dirt bike was stolen from a yard on Fourth Avenue in Invermere. Anyone with information is asked to contact the Columbia Valley RCMP or Crimestoppers. On Saturday, Sept. 18, at 7:45 p.m., police responded to a report of a single vehicle collision at the intersection of Foresters Landing Road and Columbia Avenue in Radium Hot Springs. The driver of a Toyota Rav4 reported losing control of his vehicle as he turned onto Columbia Avenue, which resulted in the vehicle colliding with a post. While speaking to the driver, the officer noted an odour of liquor coming from the driver’s breath. Follow-

ing the investigation, the driver was issued a 12-hour driving prohibition. On Saturday, Sept. 18, at 5:45 p.m., police were notified that a Volkswagen Jetta struck a guardrail in Fairmont Hot Springs and continued northbound on Highway 93/95. An officer located the vehicle traveling through Windermere and conducted a traffic stop. While speaking to the driver, the officer noted signs of impairment and read a roadside breath demand. The driver complied with the breath demand and blew two fails. As a result, the driver was issued a 90-day Immediate Roadside Driving Prohibition, and the vehicle was impounded for 30-days. On Sunday, Sept. 19, at about 9:30 p.m., Columbia Valley RCMP received a report of a Chevrolet Trailblazer parked in a dangerous location on Highway 93 in Kootenay National Park. An officer attended and spoke to a male who was found sleeping in the truck. While speaking to the driver, the officer noted signs of impairment and read a roadside breath demand. The driver complied with the breath demand and blew two fails. As a result, the driver was issued a 90-day Immediate Roadside Driving Prohibition, and the vehicle was impounded for 30days. On Sunday, Sept. 19, at about 9:50 p.m., police received a report of an erratic driver in a Ford F150 on Highway 93 in Kootenay National Park. An officer located the truck southbound on Highway 93 and conducted a traffic stop. While speaking to the driver, the officer could smell an odour of liquor coming from the driver’s breath. The driver indicated he had one beer earlier in the evening and complied with a roadside breath demand. The driver blew two fails and, as a result, was issued a 90day Immediate Roadside Driving Prohibition, and the vehicle was impounded for 30-days.

Applications may be submitted in word or pdf format to CAO Mark Read at Mark.Read@radiumhotsprings.ca

THE PIONEER

The deadline for applications is October 8th at 4:00 p.m. MST.

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September 23, 2021

Chamber appeals to Premier regarding vaccine card program

local businesses as well as from ordinary citizens, and for help communicating the requirement of the B.C. vaccine card proThe introduction of mandatory proof gram to out-of-province visitors, noting of vaccination cards or ‘vaccine passports,’ this is a particular concern in a border which allow vaccinated individuals to ac- town in which tourism is one of the major cess a range of nonessential services and industries. events, has created headaches for many “Last year, we were united with supvalley businesses, especially the restaurant porting sectors and frontline workers with industry. celebratory parades, now we see boycotIn response to the rollout of the ting and protesting. In short, we must vaccine cards, which began last week on find a way back to unity,” said the chamMonday, Sept. 13, the Columbia Valley ber in the letter. Chamber of “We felt Commerce that this was “There’s definitely confusion and frustration out (CVCC) has the collective there, about the vaccine card rollout in terms of ensent an open view of the forcement and how business letter to B.C. business comowners that are already Premier John munity and short staffed are going to Horgan, outwe wanted manage that. Many busilining local to represent ness owners are dealing business conthat,” chamwith quite a lot right now, cerns. ber executive and this just adds extra The letdirector Pete weight on their shoulders.” ter, sent the Bourke told same day the the Pioneer. Pete Bourke, vaccine cards “There’s defiCVCC executive director came into efnitely confect, outlines fusion and that the local chamber has run polls, held frustration out there, about the vaccine stakeholder roundtables and chamber card rollout in terms of enforcement and board meetings, and fielded plenty of calls how business owners that are already short from business and community members staffed are going to manage that. Many on the vaccine card issue. “These calls have business owners are dealing with quite primarily expressed desperation, anger, a lot right now, and this just adds extra bitterness, hopelessness, confusion, and weight on their shoulders.” overall uncertainty as to what the future Bourke pointed out that many restauholds,” said the chamber. “What we are rants, for instance, are short staffed to the seeing, hearing, and feeling, is a commu- point of not being able to have a host, nity divided. The rhetoric and conflict greeter or other front door person (leaving fuelled debates have sunk lower than we the task of checking vaccine cards to fall to have ever seen.” other staff, who are mostly already full-tilt The vaccine card program means lo- busy with other tasks). cal restaurants and cafes, as well as other “The onus is coming on businesses small and medium-sized businesses, are at a time when staffing issues are considbound to bear the brunt of some of this erable, and it really is a challenge,” said division, outlined the chamber, noting Bourke, adding that so far, he hasn’t heard that “the food service industry, in particu- of any local business having to deal with lar, is one that has already been decimated belligerent anti-vaccine card protestors. by labor shortages, rising wages, increased “From what I’ve heard, things have been cost of goods, and an unpredictable oper- fairly quiet in that regard. No disruptions SEPTEMBER 24 FROM 4 TO 5 P.M. / 5 TO 6 P.M. MT ating climate” and they “are feeling com- at the front door,” he said. pletely drained while trying to navigate Bourke added that he’s glad to hear constantly evolving mandates that they that Alberta may soon be introducing a never thought they would have to be deal- similar vaccine card program, which will ing with in order to remain open.” help quite a bit, since then most AlberThe chamber asked the province for ta visitors to the valley will know what to financial support to hire additional staff expect and what kind of rules they’ll need to meet the requirements of the vaccine to follow. card program, to train employees in con“We just ask that people, be they visflict management, to adjust their service itors or locals, try to be as patient as posmodels (by increasing their take-out sup- sible when they go into local businesses. plies, for instance), and for technology to Please be aware that the vaccine card is not implement the vaccine card program. the business’s rule, it’s a provincial rule, Additionally, the chamber requested and the business is just doing what they the province set up information sessions have to in order to keep their doors open,” to answer questions and concerns from concluded Bourke. By Steve Hubrecht steve@columbiavalleypioneer.com

The Columbia Valley Pioneer • 5

PO Box 159, 8866 Grainger Road Canal Flats, BC V0B 1B0 village@canalflats.ca

NOTICE OF TAX SALE The following properties located within the Village of Canal Flats shall be sold for taxes as per the Local Government Act on Monday, September 27, 2021 at 10:00 am at the Village of Canal Flats Municipal Office located at 8866 Grainger Road, Canal Flats, BC. All properties are within District Lot 110 and Land District 26. Folio #

Legal Description

0001960.004 0001962.143

Lot 4, Plan EP81134 4812 Burns Avenue Lot 43, Plan NES3031, 8900 Doherty Street TOGETHER WITH AN INTEREST IN THE COMMON PROPERTY… Block 26, Plan NEP1738, PCL A (See 187138-l) 4776 Beatty Avenue Manufactured Home Registration #33448 4915 Baillie Grohman Ave.

0001976.010 0070075.086

Location

Upset Price $8309.43 $7104.39 $4879.93 $340.28

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You’re invited to our virtual Annual General Meeting ourtrust.org/agm SEPTEMBER 24 FROM 4 TO 5 P.M. / 5 TO 6 P.M. MT

Join the Trust to celebrate the work of people and communities in the Basin over the past year. Hear from our Board Chair and CEO and ask questions about last years progress and impact. Register by September 15 to receive your attendee package, including an entry to win one of three baskets of local products from around the Basin valued at over $200!

6 • The Columbia Valley Pioneer

September 23, 2021

PERSPECTIVE

Every Child Matters

Historical Lens

By Haley Grinder haley@columbiavalleypioneer.com It is eye opening to think that it has been only a quarter of a century since the closure of the last government-run residential school. The concept of putting Indigenous peoples, particularly children, through residential schools is horrific at the most basic sense of the word. This was the very true reality for Phyllis Webstad. Living on the Dog Creek reserve, she endured the Mission residential school for one year from 19731974. Like many others, she is still recovering from the emotional trauma that she was put through at the mere age of six. Yet, she holds her head high, inspiring change and a sense of hope for other survivors out there. She currently spends her days travelling the country and sharing her story in the hopes that “others may benefit and understand, and maybe other survivors will feel comfortable enough to share their stories.” Healing from trauma is never-ending and will take everyone working together. Although it can never be forgotten, it can be learned from. The path to reconciliation is no easy task, especially when facing horrors that many Canadians have never endured or understood first-hand themselves. However, the federal government of Canada has taken a crucial step by announcing the new statutory holiday earlier this summer. Sept. 30 will now be recognized as a National Day for Truth and Reconciliation. The day was traditionally known as Orange Shirt Day, coined by Webstad in remembrance of the orange shirt taken from her on her first day at the Mission residential school. Its goal is “to commemorate the history and ongoing trauma caused by residential schools and to honour those who were lost and the survivors, families and communities who continue to grieve,” says Murray Rankin, Minister of Indigenous Relations and Reconciliation, and Selina Robinson, Minister of Finance. This Sept. 30, show your support to Phyllis Webstad and the indigenous nations right here in the Columbia Valley by wearing an orange shirt. Visit www. orangeshirtday.org to learn what else you can do. Every child matters.

George Annis is petting his dog on two horses drawn machinery from a farm on the benches above Invermere. He married Helen Young in 1947 and later started mixed farming on their property. C2103, after 1948, courtesy Windermere District Historical Society

Vaccine clinics at schools Dear Editor: Everyone in the Columbia Valley knows you don’t mess with a mama bear, especially when she is protecting her cubs! On Monday, Sept. 20, at J.A. Laird, and continuing throughout the week in the Valley at the other schools, there are “Pop up” COVID-19 vaccine clinics that require no parental consent! This last part is what parents and caretakers are feeling so uncomfortable with. The amount of consent forms a parent signs in a school year is countless. We are signing consent forms for every field trip, extra curricular activity, bus ride, friendship group, counsellors, etc., and I appreciate this! But why no consent form now, and on such an emotionally charged topic in our world at the moment. To me, this is a confirmation that the school is not behind this very peculiar, rule bending decision to allow children 12 years and older to consent to a vaccine on school grounds during school time… The Principals in our area should be honoured for their courageous attempt in sending out the first email stating parental consent was necessary. The next day the email was revoked. It came back stating parental consent was

not necessary! As parents, we will do whatever we have to to protect our children. Let’s be clear; this is not about vaccines. Yes, that should be your personal choice! This is simply about the fact that our children cannot consent to this! Certainly not a 12-year-old! School is not the time or place to administer vaccines without parental consent! The Infant Act has its place when a child is in danger, and it is used ethically! It is clearly not being used ethically in this situation. Lowering the vaccine age is happening. If they can bend it now for a 12-year-old, why not do the same for our younger children? This is very concerning. The community has started a petition. We are calling and emailing Interior Health, our MLA, Ministry of Health, Superintendents, Bonnie Henry, local Mayors, keeping our children home from school on clinic days and letting the school respectfully know why. With big challenges come big change, so hold on, be strong and let’s ride this wave out together for our children’s future! With deep respect for this community in which I reside, raise my children and run my business, Shilo Cameron, Invermere

The Columbia Valley

CANADIAN COMMUNITY NEWSPAPER AWARD 2013

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is independently owned and operated, published weekly by Robert W. Doull, President and Publisher, Misko Publishing Limited Partnership. Box 868, #8, 1008 - 8th Ave., Invermere, B.C. V0A 1K0

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The Columbia Valley Pioneer is available free of charge at 13 essential businesses in the Upper Columbia Valley, limited to one copy per reader. This publication has been made possible, in part, by the Government of Canada and the support of our advertisers and is published every Thursday. The Columbia Valley Pioneer may be distributed only by its authorized contractors and employees. No person may, without the prior written consent of The Pioneer or its Publisher, take more than one copy of each issue of The Pioneer. The content is protected by copyright. Reproduction by any means is prohibited except with the permission of the Publisher.

September 23, 2021

Invermere launches STR survey

By Steve Hubrecht steve@columbiavalleypioneer.com The district of Invermere has launched an online survey to help gauge public opinion on short-term rentals (STRs) in the community. The survey went live late last week on the district’s website, and is intended to follow on a similar STRs survey conducted by the Regional District of East Kootenay (RDEK) this summer. “We’ve had many, many comments on the need to get a handle on STRs. There are quite a lot of them in the valley, and in Invermere. There’s been some issues with them in terms of noise concerns, and parties. On the other hand, there have been a lot of positives from an economic standpoint. What is needed is proper management,” Invermere mayor Al Miller, told the Pioneer. Miller added it simply makes sense to keep the survey in the same vein as the RDEK’s because “we have to manage the issue similarly up and down the valley.” While the survey is ongoing, district staff will be taking a look at what other

municipalities across B.C. are doing in terms of STRs management. “We want to know which management strategies work well and which work less well,” said Miller. “There’s no need to re-invent the wheel.” He noted that the village of Radium Hot Springs recently became the first municipal entity in the Columbia Valley to tackle the STR issue in an administrative way, having adopted a bylaw to regulate STRs there. “Certainly, we are interested to see what happens there and take that into consideration. We’ll soon see how Radium’s approach works, and of course, that will greatly inform our approach,” said Miller. Invermere council should have the survey results by late Oct. or early Nov. and will be able to determine its next step on STRs from there. The survey deadline is Tuesday, Oct. 12. To take the survey, or simply learn more about it, visit: invermere.net/shortterm-rentals-project/

Lake Windermere Pulse Check

www.lakeambassadors.ca

Average Water Temperature: 12.7 °C Average Water Depth: 2.7 m Average Turbidity: 1.50 NTU Average Dissolved Oxygen: 6.3 mg/L. Average pH: 6.26 Thank you to our citizen scientist volunteer, Jeanette Hendricks. Jeanette is a long-time resident who enjoys paddling from spring until fall, even using her kayak as an ice breaker from time to time. She joined us today to better understand water monitoring for her own data collection on Lake Lillian. Sept. 14 marked the last day of lake sampling for this year. We still have some fall sampling to wrap up our season but Citizen Scientist of the Week: will be retreating into our office for the Jeanette Hendricks fall and winter to analyze the data. Save the date, Oct. 15, for our Learn About Your Lake event, where we will share the preliminary findings and answer questions about Lake Windermere and water monitoring. Follow us on social media @LakeAmbassadors for more details. While we have no more opportunities to sample this season, if you would like to join us in the future or learn more about our programs, get in touch at info@lakeambassadors.ca or phone (250) 341-6898. The Lake Windermere Ambassadors would like to thank the Columbia Basin Trust, Columbia Valley Community Foundation, Columbia Valley Local Conservation Fund, Real Estate Foundation, BC Gaming Grants, District of Invermere, Regional District of East Kootenay and community donors for supporting our 2021 programming.

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September 23, 2021 Continued ‘traffic’ from page 3

DISTRICT OF INVERMERE

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

NOTICE OF TAX SALE Pursuant to Section 403 of the Local Government Act, the following property will be offered for sale by public auction to be held at the Columbia Valley Centre, District of Invermere, 646 – 4th Street, Invermere, B.C. on Monday September 27, 2021 at 10 a.m. local time unless the delinquent taxes plus interest are sooner paid. FOLIO NUMBER

LEGAL DESCRIPTION

P.I.D.

CIVIC ADDRESS

UPSET PRICE

532-00232.337

LOT: 23; BLOCK: 9; PLAN NUMBER: NEP4268; DISTRICT LOT: 216 AND 1092;

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1745 9TH AVE

$8,986.17

Any person upon being declared the successful bidder must immediately pay by cash or certified cheque equal to the upset price. Failure to pay this amount will result in the property promptly being offered for sale again. Any balance must be paid by cash or certified cheque by 3:00 p.m. the same day. Failure to pay the balance will result in the property being offered for sale again at 10:00 a.m. on the following day. The District of Invermere makes no representation express or implied as to the condition or quality of the properties being offered for sale. Prospective purchasers are urged to inspect the properties and make all necessary inquiries to municipal and other government departments and in the case of strata lots to the strata corporation, to determine the existence of any bylaws, restrictions, charges or other conditions which may affect the value or suitability of the property. The purchase of a tax sale property is subject to tax under the Property Transfer Tax Act on the fair market value of the property. Karen L. Coté Director of Finance

“It’s turned out to be a complicated job,” said Young, summarizing what the contractor had told him. Young added that the district had received some negative comments from residents, but overall, these are comparatively few. Taft said it was his understanding that initially 13th Avenue was supposed to be open to one-lane alternating traffic for the duration of the upgrades, and when that didn’t pan out, that 13th Avenue was supposed to be open for school traffic, but that hasn’t panned out either, leaving the bottleneck on 15th Avenue. Young and Invermere mayor Al Miller noted that the district had undertaken work to smooth out and widen the shoulder along 15th Avenue and assigned Invermere’s bylaw officer to be at the school during morning and afternoon school bus hours to help with traffic management. “We’ve tried to play a part in making things smoother,” Invermere mayor Al Miller told the Pioneer, speaking after the council meeting. “We’ve really tried to do our best. It is busy [on 15th]. For Invermere traffic standards, it is certainly very busy. We wanted to have some traffic continue to be able to go through on 13th Avenue, to avoid this kind of situation, but we were not able to get that. We

moved as quickly as we could in getting a contractor for the upgrades, but by the time we did, unfortunately, it meant that this [the current arrangement] is the only way we could get the job done.” Miller added that “we’re hoping to be paving in October, and the intent is that that will be wrapping up by the end of October.” Bylaw officer Mark Topliff told the Pioneer that, in helping out with traffic management at the school, the issue is not the extra vehicles on 15th Avenue so much as it is how fast some of them are driving. “It’s not the volume of traffic, but the speed. We seem to be needing to re-educate a lot of people on that,” said Topliff, pointing out that 15th Avenue has a posted speed limit of 30 kilometres an hour during school hours, as do other school zones in Invermere. “There’s kids walking down the sidewalk, and walking all around the school and all around the street. These are little kids, primary school kids. They could easily see a puppy, see a friend, chase a ball, or otherwise be distracted and step out, or even run out, on the road. Drivers need to slow down and need to be safe. They need to be prepared to stop at moment’s notice to avoid an accident, if necessary,” said Topliff.

Have a sports story idea?

Email in info@columbiavalleypioneer.com

September 23, 2021

The Columbia Valley Pioneer • 9

Canal Flats waives taxes for new businesses anywhere in the village

By Steve Hubrecht steve@columbiavalleypioneer.com Canal Flats recently adopted a bylaw waiving municipal taxes for all new businesses and light industrial operations anywhere in the village. The bylaw is part of the village’s efforts to re-establish its population and eventually increase its non-residential tax base. Many other B.C. municipalities have bylaws eliminating municipal taxes for new businesses in certain areas of their communities in which they specifically want to encourage development, but few have such bylaws that encompass the entire municipality, as does the Canal Flats bylaw, and fewer still include commercial entities that fall into both B.C. Assessment’s ‘business/other’ classification and its ‘light industrial’ classification. “Jobs are key and critical to keeping the village sustainable, and this new bylaw is a strong play to get more business accelerated,” said Canal Flats mayor Karl Sterzer in a press release. “This is another step in bringing new businesses and, most importantly, new jobs to the village,” Canal Flats chief administrative officer Adrian Bergles told the Pioneer. “This is unique not only in its combination of business and light industrial applications but in how it is

not tied to geography. Usually, these kinds of bylaw will apply just to the downtown, or to an industrial area. Our applies in any suitably-zoned location in the village.” The new bylaw, officially called the Canal Flats revitalization tax incentive bylaw, replaces an existing bylaw, which was similar in intent but much smaller in scope and which applied only to one street (Grainger Road) in downtown Canal Flats. “This is another step in bringing new businesses and, most importantly, new jobs to the village.” Adrian Bergles Canal Flats chief administrative officer

“This is a much broader stroke,” Bergles told the Pioneer. “Canal Flats does have a lot of industrial land in the village, and hopefully this will help redevelop some of that.” Bergles noted that ‘light industrial’ includes operations such as tire shops, cabinet makers, auto shops and other similar uses but does not include large-scale, heavy operations such as another sawmill. He re-emphasized that a location must already have relevant zoning for a

Village of Radium Hot Springs

ZONING BYLAW

UPDATE

The Village of Radium Hot Springs is in the process of updating its Zoning Bylaw and we want to hear from you!

We encourage you to participate in the upcoming opportunities to share your thoughts on key zoning issues within our community and how we can make the bylaw more user friendly.

What Is A Zoning Bylaw? A Zoning Bylaw is a set of specific rules that regulate how land can be used and what can be built. The Zoning Bylaw is made up of two parts – the zoning map and regulations. The map divides the community into different zones and the regulations identify what uses are permitted in each zone, as well as the rules that buildings and structures must adhere to such as height, setbacks, and density.

How To Get Involved An online survey is open from September 21st to October 11th to collect feedback from community members. To participate, visit: www.radiumhotsprings.ca

business to set up there and apply for the municipal tax exemption under the new bylaw. “We would like to get the village population back up to where it once was,” said Bergles. “The intent is that this may help us get some traction with that.” He noted the bylaw is one of many attractive qualities offered by the village when it comes to doing business, including industrial land availability, ample water, fibre optic connectivity, affordable living and high quality of life for employees, and low business costs. Businesses or light industrial enterprises that invest in improvements of existing business spaces, to the tune of $5,000 or more, can also apply to have municipal taxes waived under the new bylaw. Under the bylaw, the tax exemption can last for up to six years, on a reverse sliding scale, with 100 per cent of new assessment waived in the first three years, 80 per cent waived in the fourth year, 60 per cent waived in the fifth year, and 40 per cent in the sixth year. The bylaw has only been in place a few weeks, and the village has not had any new businesses try to take advantage of it yet, but Bergles noted that “we are open to applications.” More details about the bylaw can be found at canalflats.civicweb.net/filepro/documents/108?preview=20795.

Upcoming Events Virtual Community Workshop

Join us from the comfort of your own home for a brief presentation about the Zoning Bylaw update process, live polling questions, and a question/discussion period. Where? Online event (Zoom) When? October 5th at 7 p.m. Register at: www.radiumzoningbylaw.eventbrite.ca

In-Person Open House

Rather join us in-person? The Village is hosting in-person open house sessions to present information about the Zoning Bylaw update. Attendees will have the opportunity to speak with our project team and ask key zoning related questions. Where? Radium Hot Springs Centre (Main Hall), 4863 Stanley Street When? • Coffee Hour Open House (October 21st 9 a.m. - 10 a.m.) • Open House (October 21st 4 p.m. - 6 p.m.)

Zoning Bylaw Update

10 • The Columbia Valley Pioneer

September 23, 2021 Welcome to the brand new two page spread, brought to you by the Columbia Valley Chamber of Commerce! We will be coming to you every week featuring new entrepreneurs, local business legends, valuable opportunities for business operators, PLUS! Every event in the Valley that you should know about! Thanks to www.cvevents.ca

OUT OF OFFICE…

Thanks for coming! Stay a while...

Winter Squash

Winter squash season has arrived, and with so much sweet, rich, bright, and nutrientpacked squash, we want you to embrace the diverse variety of these thick-skinned and hearty fruits. No matter the variety, when you’re shopping for winter squash, go for those that feel heavy for their size, have no bruising or soft spots, and have an intact stem. The stem should be brown and dry, to ensure that the squash was properly ripened and cured. When cured well, winter squash will keep throughout the winter months, which is how it gets its name! BU No need for a refrigerator, SI NE just store it in a cool, SS dry place. ES Excluding OF p i e

and salad. Acorn – This deeply ribbed squash gets its name for its resemblance to an acorn. It has a hard rind which holds it shape when cooked, making it a great choice for stuffing and baking. With mild flavour, it is versatile for sweet and savoury dishes. Delicata – Their flesh is flavourful and tastes like sweet potatoes. With thin and edible skin, so it cooks quickly, but doesn’t keep as long as its other winter squash counterparts. You can slice into quarter inch rings, remove seeds, and sauté, bake, or even broil, in butter or oil, until caramelized. It’s also great in a salad or stir fry. - Chelsea Girimonte, Food and Farm

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pumpkins and butternut (no offense guys, we love you both), here are our top five winter squash favourites: Spaghetti – When baked, the flesh of this squash can be scraped to create spaghettilike strands! Kids love helping turn this squash into noodles. Bake, shred, and toss it with your favourite tomato sauce, pesto, or butter and cheese. Hubbard – Hubbards are a huge, heirloom squash, with a grey shell, green rind, and bright orange flesh. They aren’t too sweet and have a buttery, nutty flavour. Their texture is similar to a baked potato and they are best baked or mashed. Kabocha – “Kabocha” is the Japanese word for squash! This variety is sweet, nutty, and earthy in flavour. It has a light, dry texture making it a great candidate for roasting, steaming, and frying as it maintains its shape well. Use kabocha in curries, soups, stir-fry,

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September 23, 2021

cvevents cv events.ca .ca

The Columbia Valley Pioneer • 11

WHAT’S HAPPENING?

scan me!

Thursday September 23

Ongoing Events

• 5:00 pm Indigenous Resources and Perspectives for Outdoor Learning With Faye O’Neil (free virtual workshop) Faye O’Neil is Ktunaxa and a member of ?aqam just outside of Cranbrook, BC. Faye O’Neil grew up in the Columbia Valley, is on CBEEN’s Board of Directors, and an Indigenous advisor to our Outdoor Learning Store. Explore Faye’s perspective around outdoor learning related to her understanding and knowledge of her Ktunaxa roots and being born to the land. She will discuss the resources offered in the Indigenous section Canada’s Outdoor Learning Store and offer her point of view on how you can braid these resources into your classroom and livelihood. Register at https://cbeen.ca/workshops/.

Thursdays

Sundays

• 9 am–4 pm: Thrift Store donation Drop Off : Donations open Wedesndays and Thursdays. Housewares in boxes and clothing in garbage bags please. • 10 am: Momfit at the Spider Park. Moms are invited to join a weekly morning workout, hosted by Invermere’s Momfit & Preschool Play Group. Kid-friendly! Weather permitting. Always bring your bands, a mat, water and stay home if you are not feeling well.

• 1-5 pm: See You Next Sundays in Taynton Bay (weather permitting) Invermere’s LOCAL MOTIVE EVENTS will be hosting live dj’s from a private venue in Taynton bay. All are welcome to join by your choice of Stand up Paddle, canoe or kayak, boat, floaty or even water wings

Mondays

• 10:30-11:30 am: Seniors Fitness takes place at the Columbia Valley Ongoing Events Centre $2 Drop in rate. • 11:45 am - 1 pm: Indoor Walking. Weekly indoor walking inside of the Columbia Valley Centre will resume every Monday and Wednesday from Fridays 11:45am to 1pm. Please wear clean indoor shoes. A mask is required.• Friday September 24 • 10:30 am: Story Time with the Invermere Public Library. Story time 6 - 9 pm LGBTQ+ and Allies Youth Group. LGBTQ+ and Allies are invited will take place outside the library on the front lawn while the weather is • 11:00 am-1:00 pm Global Climate Strike to attend the Summit Youth Hub’s weekly drop-in for youth. Every nice! Join us for stories, songs and a take-home craft! Join Wildsight on Friday, September 24th from 11AM to 1PM at Cenotaph • Wing Day at the Edgewater Legion. Every Friday is Wing Day at the Edge- Monday, ages 12-18. Snacks + a safe space! Park (714 12th Street) in Downtown Invermere for a day of global action water Legion! 12pm Take Out, 5pm Dine In! www.facebook.com/RCL199 or • 8 pm: Movies in the Mountains. We’re back on Monday nights at Potagainst climate change! Put your marching boots on, bring your signs and hole Park in Invermere! Movies start at dark. Free to attend, cash concall 250-347-9725 placards, and come out to support a climate resilient future for you, your cession available. Bring blankets, lawn chairs and mosquito repellant! • 4-8 pm: Pub Grub at the Invermere Legion, Every Friday and Saturday, children and your grandchildren. Hosted by the District of Invermere.*This event follows the current PHO Wings & Things, Pub Grub in the Branch. order on gatherings & events and the current province-wide restric• 5 pm: Magic the Gathering, Come for Friday Night Magic & play Magic the Saturday September 25 tions. Registration in advance is required Gathering! 5:30 pm start. Entry: $10-40 depending on format. Call 3423440 for details. No registration required, but space is limited. Ages 10+. Tuesdays Harvest gathering and Land Social • 6 pm Rotary Community Bingo. Must be 19+ to play. Online live bingo • 6-10 pm:Youth/Teen Drop in Fun - Invermere. NEW this year, the • 6:00 pm: 1050 Highway 95, Spillimacheen games with the purpose to raise money for various community charities, Land socials connect farmers and farmland holders, and set them up to Summit Youth Hub is taking our youth centre on the road to Edgewater organizations and businesses who have been affected by the Covid-19 receive ongoing support through the B.C. Land Matching Program. Both and Canal Flats! We will be bringing our mobile skate park, BBQ, tunes pandemic. Choose to support a local Rotary Club with your ticket purchase! and so much more! This is where you can pick up your Summer Snack farmers seeking land and farmland holders thinking about sharing land are encouraged to attend – as well as anyone who loves food, farming, Pack too! Saturdays and getting out onto the land. • 4-8 pm: Pub Grub at the Invermere Legion, Every Friday and Saturday, Wednesdays Hosted by Spilli Station Cafe and Flyway Farm and Forest. Register at Wings & Things, Pub Grub in the Branch. • 10:30-11:30 am: Family Dynamix hosts a Catch-up Cafe for the https://youngagrarians.org/events/ • 11:00am-9:00pm Oktoberfest The District of Invermere and Royal CanadiColumbia Valley every Wednesday morning on ZOOM for those isolated Sundays an Legion Branch 71 presents Oktoberfest. Join us in Downtown Invermere and unable to get out as much because of Covid 19.Tricia at patkin@ • On Sundays and Mondays, the Rotary Club or Kinsmen Club collects for the 2021 Oktoberfest celebration (at Lakeview Parking Lot). Beer and familydynamix.ca refundable bottles and cans at the Invermere Transfer Station! We sort Bratwurst will be available at the Invermere Legion’s new outdoor patio • 6 pm: Drop in Utimate Frisbee. JA Laird Sports Field. $20 registration from 11am-9pm. Prost! Masks will be strongly recommended to enter the and deliver for refund - this money goes “right back into the communifee for the season. Please bring cash or transfer to justin@justinkeitch. market area. Visitor traffic will be one way through the market area. Entry ty” through our Projects and Initiatives!! com via the “Market Entrance” only.

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12 • The Columbia Valley Pioneer

Short Term Rental Notice Property owners are hereby advised that the Village requires owners engaged in short term rental business activity to acquire a licence with the municipality. A ‘short term rental business’ means the business of providing temporary accommodation to paying guests in a dwelling unit, but does not include the rental of a dwelling unit for residential purposes for a month or more under a residential tenancy agreement pursuant to the Residential Tenancy Act. Licence application forms may be downloaded from the Village website ‘Documents Center’ under the ‘Commonly Requested’ tab found here: https://radiumhotsprings.ca/village-office/documents-centre/ Questions regarding the licencing requirements may be directed to our Bylaw Enforcement Officer, Kent Kebe. 250-347-6455 • Kent.Kebe@radiumhotsprings.ca

FREE BEREAVEMENT SUPPORT The Hospice Society of the Columbia Valley is offering a Free Bereavement Support starting Monday, September 27th, located at the Hospice Society office, #103-926-7 Avenue, Invermere, at Frater Landing square, next to the Jewellery store. The support group will follow a 10-week curriculum designed by Dr. Alan Wolfelt, founder of the Center for Loss and Life Transition. Please contact Daneve at 250-349-5515 for registration or call the Hospice Office at 778-526-5143. Limited space. Deadline for enrollment is September 26th. If you or someone you know is having a difficult time with the loss of a loved one, please give the Hospice a call. Symptoms of Grief include: Shock, numbness, denial, fear, panic, sadness and depression. If you are experiencing any of these, we can help. All COVID protocols are followed

www.hospicesocietycv.com

Have an opinion? N E W S PA P E R

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

September 23, 2021

Columbia House Healing Garden brings peace to Invermere By Haley Grinder haley@columbiavalleypioneer.com

A “place of peace” has been immortalized as the Columbia House Healing Garden in Invermere after years of hard work and dedication. The garden, first brought to light three years ago, has changed the way of life for both the residents at the facility and the community as a whole. The Columbia House is a 35-bed long-term care facility in Invermere, administered by Interior Health, that provides “care for disabled residents, the frail elderly, and for seniors unable to look after themselves.” “Part of it is to have residents in touch with what’s going on,” says John Newton, president of the Columbia House Enhancement Society and integral part of the project’s success. He believes it is important to embrace oneself with nature, especially when one might not be the pinnacle of health. The community park, fondly referred to as COHO by the community, is complemented by a variety of anJohn Newton, president of the Columbia House Ennual and perennial flowers, scenic landscaping, and a hancement Society, at the Columbia House Healing Garden. tranquil waterfall. It serves to bridge the gap between residents and the community, allowing for everyone to enjoy a place of peace right within the center of town-- convenient for those who may not have the luxury of exploring the beach or going on a hike. This is especially necessary during the busy summer months when tourists monopolize much of the beaches within walking distance. The reality for many long-term care residents is spending year-round inside their facility. With the COVID-19 pandemic and the isolation regulations in place, this meant that many had limited interaction with the outside world. This community garden helped expand their world, as well as connect them with the external world. The garden provides pathways lined with rails, including wheelchair access, complemented by brightly coloured foliage, and a massive, yet serene pergola put in place by Rona and Collective Carpentry. The landscaping is maintained weekly and invites those interested in joining their gardening efforts. The initial goal to complete the project was $600,000, however, after nearly $750,000 dollars raised fundraising, the garden is finally emerging completion. The pavilion, made possible by Home Hardware, is still in the works. Once that’s complete, the long-term care residents and community alike can embrace live music that will hopefully become a Thursday tradition. The park is open dawn until dusk, every day, with plenty of benches and scenery for the public to enjoy. To learn more, visit https://cohogViews on the Columbia House Healing Garden. arden.org/. Photos by Haley Grinder

September 23, 2021

Youth revamp community art mural in Invermere

By Steve Hubrecht steve@columbiavalleypioneer.com The Columbia Valley Youth Network, the local Rotary Interact Club and Black Star Studios are teaming up to bring a splash of new colour to downtown Invermere, starting this weekend. The groups are working together to create a new community art mural on the concrete wall just below the Canterbury Inn, across 12 Street from the Invermere post office. Interact Club treasurer secretary and Youth Network member Clare Hatalcik presented the project during the most recent Invermere council meeting on Tuesday, Sept. 14, outlining that the new mural would incorporate aspects of the old mural and will be a “colourful landscape of the valley.” Plans for a revamped mural have been afoot since last spring, but the project only really took off in the past few weeks, explained Hatalcik. The groups involved put out a call for design ideas. Two submissions came in — a colour pencil sketch from local youth artist Kate Hale and a digital drawing from local youth artist Neina Flight. Project organizers decided to combine the two into a single concept, a black and white drawing of which Hatalcik showed council members. The final concept also includes several new elements, including one meant to represent local LGBTQ2S+ youth and another meant to represent Indigenous youth. Prep work on the old mural wall occurred on Monday, Sept. 20. The actual painting of the mural was, as of Pioneer press time, set to take place in hour one shift

on Saturday, Sept. 25 from noon to 4 p.m., on Monday, Sept. 27 through Wednesday, Sept. 29, from 3 p.m. to 6 p.m., and on Thursday, Sept. 30, from noon to 4 p.m. Hatalcik explained the youth would follow COVID-19 protocols and remain spaced apart. Invermere council members received the presentation positively, with councillor Gerry Taft saying “I think it’s great.” Youth Network coordinator Ang Miller had been in contact with Stan Perry, the artist who created the old mural, telling the Pioneer that Perry had said he was honoured that the revamp is being done and would incorporate parts of his old mural. “I’m a strong believer in community, and local youth have been cooped up during the pandemic. For us to work together on a big project like this will be good for us, and good for the community,” Hatalcik told the Pioneer, adding she feels it’s “surreal” that the project has proceeded as smoothly and as rapidly as it has, and that she is “excited to work with all the great groups involved in the project.” “It’s going to be a great project to work on it. It will hopefully bring a colourful, cheerful feeling to anybody walking by that part of downtown, and will be something local youth can be proud of,” added Miller. Any youth in Grade 6 or older who wish to help paint the mural are welcome to get in touch with Miller to sign up. A maximum of 10 people can sign up for each of the one-hour time slots. To contact Miller, call 250-341-5216 or email columbiavalleyyouthnetwork@hotmail. com.

Mural concept submission by local artist Kate Hale. Photo by Kate Hale

Mural concept submission by local artist Neina Flight.

Photo by Neina Flight

The Columbia Valley Pioneer • 13

The final concept incorporates submissions from local youth artists Kate Hale and Neina Flight, as well as aspects of the old mural, and elements meant to represent local LBGTG2S+ youth and Indigenous youth. Photo submitted by Clare Hatalcik

14 • The Columbia Valley Pioneer

September 23, 2021

Canal Flats cuts ribbon on new park pavilion By Steve Hubrecht steve@columbiavalleypioneer.com The new pavilion in the Canal Flats Lions Park officially opened with a ribbon-cutting ceremony earlier this month. Village and regional officials gathered on Thursday, Sept. 9, to celebrate the completion of a project that began two years ago. The majority of the funding for the pavilion and new washrooms came from the Columbia Basin Trust (CBT)’s community outdoor revitalization capital grant funding stream. “The pavilion has been well used by families and groups in the community for gatherings like family reunions all summer,” said Canal Flats chief administrative officer Adrian Bergles. “It’s about creating gathering space for the community. It’s a really nice piece in the downtown and is great for the community.” Bergles added that aside from Canal Flats residents, the Columbia Basin Alliance for Literacy (CBAL) and Family Dynamix have also regularly used the pavilion for their events in the village. The village secured the grant two years ago, but progress was delayed by the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, Bergles told the Pioneer, adding most of the structure went up in summer 2020, with the final touches, such as lighting and plumbing, wrapping up this past spring and summer. The project was worked on in partnership between the village and the Canal Flats Community Society. Aside from the CBT, Regional District of East Kootenay (RDEK) Area F (through a grant in aid), and Columbia Roofing (which donated roofing for the Wilmer Community Club washroom), and Canfor Radium (which donated lumber for the pavilion roof ) also FUTURE OF THE SKATING RINK contributed. The Wilmer Community Club will be hosting an evening Golden-based Caevent to discuss the future of the skating rink. nadian Timberframes We will give an update and have a speaker with did the framing work knowledge of building outdoor recreational venues. on the pavilion, which Bergles noted “really We need your vision and input and is cutting edge timber invite all residents to attend. framing.”

COMMUNITY NOTICE

Tuesday, September 28th 7 PM Wilmer Hall Please RSVP to wilmerhall99@outlook.com If covid restrictions change we will host a zoom meeting.

Are you looking for some rewarding, flexible, part-time work? The Columbia Basin Alliance for Literacy is looking for a casual/part-time

Adult Program Facilitator ~ $22/hr

• • • • •

This position will be working one on one or in small groups to provide adults and seniors with basic technology support. Skills needed: Basic knowledge of computers, tablets and smart phones Strong communication skills Ability to work on your own Organized Valid driver’s licence Experience working with seniors and/or English Language Learners is beneficial. Please submit a cover letter and resume to skalesnikoff@cbal.org by Wednesday, September 29th.

Officials and staff gathered in the Canal Flats Lions Park on Thursday, Sept. 8 to cut the ribbon on the park’s new pavilion and washrooms. Pictured in front row from left is Canal Flats parks manager Mathieu Fournier, chief administrative officer Adrian Bergles, mayor Karl Sterzer, RDEK Area F director Susan Clovechok, and Canal Flats parks staff member Dave Lario (in orange shirt, partly cutoff in this image). Photos by Syd Danis

Fall harvest events planned for the Columbia Valley By James Rose james@columbiavalleypioneer.com On Sept. 25, Spilli Station Cafe and Flyway Farm & Forest are hosting a “harvest gathering and land social” potluck with Columbia Valley Food and Farm (CVFF). The event is free and is meant to celebrate the fall harvest and the work of the Young Agrarians land matching program. Young Agrarians is a farmer-to-farmer educational resource network for new and young ecological, organic and regenerative farmers. Spilli Station Cafe plans to bring pork tenderloin with a heritage plum syrup as the main course. And on Oct. 2, Groundswell Network, with support from CVFF, is hosting a ticketed season-ending

harvest party celebration, with all proceeds going to community food growing and education initiatives. The party will feature a garden-to-table to spread and live music. Alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks are not included in the ticket price but will be available for sale on site. Adult tickets for Groundswell Members are $20, non-member adults are $25, and all children 12 and under are invited to attend for free. The event will follow all COVID-19 measures to stay in compliance and keep guests safe. This includes restrictions on gathering size, masks when indoors in the greenhouse, and a vaccine verification upon entry. Proceeds will support keeping Groundswell running, even in the winter months, and education initiatives and programming in the 2021-2022 school year. Tickets are available at foodandfarm.ca

September 23, 2021

The Columbia Valley Pioneer • 15

WildSafeBC’s 6th Annual BC Goes Wild 2021 to be followed when submitting photos. The intent is to reduce negative impacts on wildlife that may interfere with their natural behaviours or may put people at risk if they are too close to their subjects.

Tag us through Instagram, Facebook and Twitter #wildsafebc and share with us how you live, work, play and grow in B.C. in a manner that reduces conflict with WildSafeBC invites everyone in British Columbia to wildlife and helps keep wildlife wild and your community join us in celebrating the 6th Annual BC Goes safe. You may be featured in our #SaturdayWild this September. September is historicalSpotlight where we highlight innovative and ly a month where human-bear conflicts are at practical ways people are #WildSafe. These their highest. BC Goes Wild coincides with this activities can include: securing garbage and month to bring awareness to these issues while compost indoors until the morning of colalso promoting ways we can live, work, play and lection; picking fruit prior to it being fully grow in a wildlife country. Local WildSafeBC ripe and letting it ripen in a secure location; Community Coordinators will be hosting events using a properly installed electric fence to in their communities, including activities such as deter wildlife from accessing attractants; nature walks, fruit presses, bear spray demonstrakeeping your pet on a leash; carrying bear tions, wildlife art, and more. No matter where spray while running, hiking and biking in you live in B.C., you can participate by entering wildlife country; freezing smelly items until our BC Goes Wild Photo Contest, Colouring the day of collection; taking down bird feedContest or by sharing your WildSafe activities by ers while bears and rodents are most active; tagging us online #wildsafebc. packing out attractants from parks and othIn the Columbia Valley, WildSafeBC Coer wild places; and many more! ordinators Natalie and Corinna will be hosting We can all do our part in reducing conBC Goes Wild Events on Sept. 26 at Radius, Raflict with wildlife which will help keep wilddium. This includes a scavenger hunt, WildSafe life wild and our community safe. To learn Ranger presentation for kids and a Bear Spray more, you can contact your local WildSafeClinic for adults. For more information, check BC Coordinator, Natalie or visit www.wildout the event posting on our Facebook page or One mama bear with two cubs. safebc.com. contact us at radiuminvermere@wildsafebc.com. WildSafeBC Columbia Valley is gratePhoto by Denise Hoffgaard The BC Goes Wild Photo Contest returns ful for the generous support the program this year, find details at https://wildsafebc.com/get-inWe also have a colouring contest for the younger receives from its funders, including the district of Involved/2021-photo-contest/. Don’t wait too long, the ones. Follow this link to download a choice of two co- vermere, Radium Hot Springs, Columbia Basin Trust, last entries are to be submitted by Sept. 30. WildSafeBC louring pages and submit before Nov. 30 for a chance to the British Columbia Conservation Foundation and the recognizes that taking photos of wildlife can sometimes win a full set of WildSafe Ranger buttons, a WildSafeBC Province of B.C. If you would like to support our work, put people and wildlife at risk. As such, WildSafeBC has hat and a cheque for $50. Visit https://wildsafebc.com/ there are many ways you can get involved. Donations are developed a Photography Code of Ethics that is required get-involved/wildsafe-ranger-contest/ for more details. always appreciated. Submitted by Natalie Ebsworth WildsafeBC coordinator

Thank you! The organizers would like to thank our Sponsors (listed below); over 50 Volunteers; the very talented Artists; Musicians; PB Pro-Audio; Home Hardware; and Farside Inn who all contributed in making Flats Fest 2021 a huge success! • Columbia Lake Technology Centre • JRJ Logging Inc • Columbia Basin Trust • Mountain Metals • Rockies West Realty • Columbia Rooﬁng • Chasse Holdings • Mountainside Market • Eau Claire Partners • Hearing Loss Clinic

• • • • • • • • •

Madison Builders Family Pantry Brandt Tractor Inland Kenworth E&T Trucking Ltd Kinetic Concrete Wasa Hardware Grant Shmry Village of Canal Flats Grant in Aid

16 • The Columbia Valley Pioneer

HERE TO SERVE YOU

CONCRETE

CONCRETE • 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

READY MIX CONCRETE Concrete Pump • Sand & Gravel Heavy Equipment Rentals • Crane Service Proudly Serving the Valley for over 50 years

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

CARPET CLEANING

Call NOW:

250-688-0213

Business: 250-342-9692

A licensed, registered and bonded company

We also offer roundthe-clock service calls.

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

There’s a new ‘Sucker’ in town! Vacuum/ Septic tank pumping

Slurpy

Registered ROWP Serving all areas from Wasa to Golden

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

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

Cell: 250-342-1273

ptarmiganrugclean@gmail.com

CONTRACTING

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

P U R S U I T

O F

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

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

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

CONTRACTING

We’ll paint for you, so you won’t be blue (or pink or green). While winter is settling in, we will spruce up your vacation condo or house.

TILE AND GROUT CLEANING

Visit www.heavensbest.com for more information

Specializing in all heating, electric, gas and wood.

I N

Mr & Mrs Paint

Enjoy life, we’ll clean it up! • 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

September 23, 2021

Call Ken for a free estimate and references.

250-341-5270 • apercechy62@gmail.com

CONTRACTING

Patryk Jagiello 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

INTERIOR • EXTERIOR • WALL COVERINGS Seniors Discounts

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

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

Kekuli Bay Cabinetry kekulibaycabinetry.com

Gary’s

Professional Painting & Decorating Ltd. 1978 FREE Estimates

CUSTOM WOOD FINISHING FAUX FINISHES JOURNEYMAN RED SEAL

403-650-4622 • garysptg@gmail.com

• Authorized dealer • Designer • Installer

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

Dale Elliott Contracting

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

N E W S PA P E R

dale@decontracting.ca • 250-341-7098

September 23, 2021

The Columbia Valley Pioneer • 17

HERE TO SERVE YOU

INSURANCE

PHARMACIES

LAMBERT-KIPP

PHARMACY (2019) LTD. INSURANCE AGENCIES LTD.

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

www.kootenayinsurance.ca

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

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

Open Mon. – Sat., 9 a.m. - 6 p.m. and Sun., 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

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

1301 - 7th Avenue, Invermere

250-342-6612

Your Compounding Pharmacy

LANDSCAPING

SERVICES

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

Scott Postlethwaite

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

Free Estimates

invermereelectric@gmail.com

GOLDEN, BC 250-344-0188

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

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

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

SERVICES

Judy: (250) 341-1903

House Checking and more! Bob: (250) 341-5014

Fully Insured & WCB Covered

valleysolutions@shaw.ca

PROVIDING SOLUTIONS FOR THE VACATION HOME OWNER SINCE 2006

Sales ~ Service ~ Installation

UNIVERSAL DOORS & EXTERIORS

You name it! I’ll take care of it! YOUR ONE-STOP SHOP for all home maintenance from raking your lawn to renovating your entire house.

Here to Serve You Advertising 250-341-6299

EXPERIENCE

Keep your local businesses alive. Get your tree services right here in Invermere!

SERVICE EXCELLENCE

North American Warranty

IN THE COLUMBIA VALLEY

SINCE 1991 ICBC Glass Repair Out of Province Vehicle Inspections Auto Body Repairs • Painting • Quality Parts

Industrial ~ Commercial ~ Residential

CLEANING & MAINTENANCE ON ALL WOOD BURNING APPLIANCES • WETT INSPECTIONS

OVER

30 YEARS

Please call Steve ~ a real local you can trust! 250-342-1791

unidoorext@live.ca • unidoorext.ca

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

• Pruning and Removal of ALL Trees and Shrubs • Stump Grinding • Fully Insured & WCB Covered

Chimney and Eavestrough Cleaning and Repair Specialists

Arnold Scheffer 250-342-6700

Beat the fall rush ~ clean your Chimney this spring!

FREE ESTIMATES

We give all students 15% off with valid student ID

All Makes and Models Tire Sales and Installation

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

WINDOW COVERINGS SHOWROOM • • • •

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

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

KITCHEN CABINETS & COUNTER TOPS

915 7th Avenue, Unit B, Invermere • EMAIL: fairmontridge@telus.net • 250-342-4663

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

N E W S PA P E R

18 • The Columbia Valley Pioneer

September 23, 2021

Insects as indicators As we see the seasons changing from the long hot Wanderings days of summer By Shannon McGinty to the cool crisp Lake Windermere Ambassadors mornings of fall, the Lake Windermere Ambassadors are also shifting gears as we enter the final Deep Dive of 2021, Our Shared Home. Over the next few months, we will be taking a closer look at all critters with whom we share Lake Windermere. This month, the spotlight is on insects, benthic macroinvertebrates to be precise. If you break down the name, benthic macroinvertebrates, you get the definition of just exactly who these creatures are – bottom-dwelling, small – but visible with the human eye, animals and larvae that lack a backbone. Many of the benthic macroinvertebrates we see in the water around here are the larvae stage of common insects we see throughout the summer, such as the dragonflies and mosquitos. While you are likely more familiar with their flying form, these insects usually spend most of their life under water, like many years submerged and just a few hours to days above water as a fly. So, what is the big fuss over these little organisms? Well, since they spend most (if not all) of their time in the water, they do a pretty good job at telling us about the quality of the water. In addition to the time spent in water, they are also good indicators because they don’t travel far, are easy to collect, and respond in predictable ways to human influence. We use information about the abundance and variety of invertebrates to determine water quality.

Watershed

In general, a healthy aquatic system will support a large variety of invertebrates in high populations. If we see samples that have only pollutant-tolerant species (i.e. midge larvae or aquatic worms), that becomes a pretty clear indicator that there is a cause for concern about the quality of the water. In addition to alerting us of sudden changes, their inability to travel has made them good indicators of long-term changes. This, based on the fact that they need to adapt when a short-term threat becomes a long-term change of habitat. Since September of 2013, the Lake Windermere Ambassadors have been collecting information about the macroinvertebrates in Windermere Creek through the Canadian Aquatic Biomonitoring Network. In 2019, we added the collection of environmental DNA to this monitoring thanks to support from the STREAM project. This added value to our monitoring as it provides a

more complete profile of the biodiversity content from a small sample. Feel free to contribute to this conversation on Facebook, Instagram, or Twitter @LakeAmbassadors. The Lake Windermere Ambassadors would like to thank the Columbia Basin Trust, Columbia Valley Community Foundation, Columbia Valley Local Conservation Fund, Real Estate Foundation, BC Gaming Grants, District of Invermere, Regional District of East Kootenay, BC Hydro, and community donors for supporting our 2021 programming. Shannon McGinty, Program Coordinator for the Lake Windermere Ambassadors. Email her at shannon@lakeambassadors.ca or call the office (250) 341-6898..

Lifecycle of Stonefly (Left) and Mosquito (Right) demonstrating difference between larvae and adult stage.

HERE TO SERVE YOU SERVICES

SERVICES

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

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

Your Weekly Source for News and Events

HOW WE ROLL Gerard Rehman 4950 Hot Springs Rd. Fairmont Hot Springs, B.C. V0B 1L1

NEW SEWER CAMERA

N E W S PA P E R

(7655) LetUsRoll4U@Gmail.com

20 years experience • Satisfaction guaranteed!

(Servicing the Valley since 1999)

Kootenay Paving

Ph: 250-688-ROLL

• Septic Tank Pumping • Portable Toilet Rentals

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

Fraser Elrick • 250-688-1271

Lerissa

McLaughlin Toll Free 1-888-341-2221

Kootenay Paving

Where to recycle? Call now for a free quote! Toll Free 1-888-341-2221

Locally operated, with full-time staff serve you better. Checktothe BC RECYCLEPEDIA www.rcbc.ca

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

#8, 1008 - 8th Avenue PO Box 868, Invermere, B.C. V0A 1K0 Ph: 250-341-6299 ext: 102 • Cell: 506-261-1861

Sales Representative

www.columbiavalleypioneer.com lerissa@columbiavalleypioneer.com

Where to recycle? Check the BC RECYCLEPEDIA 604-RECYCLE (732-9253) 1-800-667-4321 RECYCLING COUNCIL OF B.C. MEMBER

September 23, 2021

The Columbia Valley Pioneer • 19

P IONEER C LASSIFIEDS

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

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

Miller, Irene “Pat” Patricia January 4th, 1939 – September 9th, 2021

On September 9th, 2021, Irene “Pat” passed away with family by her side, at Columbia House, which became her home 6 years prior, when she was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s. Pat was born in Calgary, Alberta, in later years she met her husband Dean Miller there. Pat and Dean were inseparable, they were married for 65 years and had 4 children. They moved to the Columbia Valley in 1972, owning and operating Timber’s Resort in Fairmont, B.C. In 1977 the family moved to Cranbrook, B.C., to start an auto body business called Miller Enterprises. The business was known as Sun Valley Auto body, they decided to move the business to Invermere B.C., and continued running and operating it with their children. Their oldest son Jim would later take over the Sun Valley Auto Body business and Dean and Pat bought the Skookum Inn restaurant and campground in 1992. Always a busy person, Pat made time for her desired passions which were, playing the organ and singing. Pat and her family used to play in a band together called The Maylander’s, she would also sew all the band outfits. Painting was another one of her many beautiful talents, she painted such amazing pieces, some of which were displayed in our local art shows. Pat also enjoyed ceramics, candle making, knitting, and crochet. She was a very strong woman with many talents. Pat is survived by her husband Dean Miller, their children - Jim (Pat), Ted (Patsy), Tammy, and Kelly, grandchildren Chris, Tana (Paul), Charlene (Jay), Jennifer (Dallas), Jackie (Colten), Teagan, Kelvin (Ali) great grand children Tristan, Tyla, Miles, Aubrey, Isaak, and Dakota. The family would like to send out a sincere Thank You to all the Columbia House staff, for taking such great care of our mom, grandmother, great grandmother. Your caring, compassionate hard work did not go unnoticed. In lieu of flowers, please donate to the Alzheimer’s Society of Canada. https://alzheimer.ca/ God saw you getting tired When a cure was not to be. So he wrapped his arms around you And whispered “come unto me”. You didn’t deserve what you went through, And so he gave you rest. God’s garden must be beautiful, He only takes the best. So when I saw you sleeping So peaceful and free from pain. I could not wish you to come back, To suffer that all again. Arrangements entrusted to McPherson Funeral Services. Condolences for the family can be offered at www.mcphersonfh.com

N E W S PA P E R

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

ANNOUNCEMENT

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 250-342-2424 for more info.

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

LISTINGS NEEDED!

Cheers to our happy 13th Ave gardener Walter G - you are so generous with your abundant crops and with super recipes for your delicious garden gifts. We are blessed to have you as our neighbour.

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!

Milton Victor WITTMAN July 26, 1936 ~ September 15, 2021

*Not intended to solicit those already working with an agent.

BUYING OR SELLING CALL 250-341-1202

gerrytaft.ca

Cheers to Greg Peers our former postmaster at Radium for all your friendly, efficient service to everyone who has a post office box in Radium. Enjoy your retirement and take pride in knowing that your many friends here will miss you.

COMMERCIAL SPACE

Personal Real Estate Corporation

Rockies West Realty

Surrounded by the love and presence of his family, Milt passed peacefully from this life on September 15, 2021 at the age of 85 years and 51 days. Milt was born July 26, 1936 in Rush Lake, Saskatchewan. He lived in Rush Lake with his grandparents until 1943 when they moved to Swift Current. He attended Ashley Park school and was their star quarterback. At age 16 he went to work in the oilfields. In 1957 he met Vi Koehn and in November of that year they were married. Their son Michael was born in 1959. After Milt and Vi separated in 1960, Milt moved to Carrot River then spent several years working the rigs in Fort McMurray. In 1969 he married Winnifred Miller and adopted her 7 children. Winnifred died in 1975 and in 1976 he reunited with and re-married Vi. Milt left the oilfields in 1974 to work with Prudential Steel, where he stayed until 1981 when they made the move to Edgewater. Once in Edgewater he started a waste disposal company called JR Enterprises, which kept him quite busy. It didn’t take long after moving to Edgewater for Milt & Vi became very involved in the community. They worked hard at raising money to refurbish the ball diamond which later became known as Wittman Field. Milt was also a long-time member of the Royal Canadian Legion Branch #199 and served as Vice President and Sergeant at Arms for two terms each. When he retired from his operation of JR Enterprises in 2001 he started a local recycling business which he continued to operate until 2019 when poor health forced him to slow down. To say Milt loved fishing is an understatement. He spent countless hours on the banks of the Bugaboo and Spillimacheen Rivers angling for whitefish. He also loved golfing, snowmobiling, quadding, camping and just floating down the river, beer in hand. Milt made friends easily and would carry conversations on with complete strangers as though he had known them for years. His love of animals even superseded his connection with people - in the 40 years he lived in Edgewater, there was never a shortage of animals (dogs or cats) in their home. Milt was predeceased by his wife Winnifred, mother Emma, stepfather Robert McCartney, aunt Alma, aunt Linda and uncle David. He is survived by his loving wife Vi, son Mike, granddaughter Michelle (Fraser) Elrick, great grandsons Teigen and Dayton and sister Maureen Kish. He is also survived by his adopted children Bill, Linda (Rob) Wojtonik, Donna (Ed) Taylor, Blaine (Julie), Dennis (Linda), Kathleen McLean and Tracie Maione, his grandchildren Riley, Kendra (Dale), Thomas (Katherine), Alana, Elyse, Kayla (Aaron), Tyler, Melissa (Michael) and Peter, and his great grandchildren Klara, Mia and Axel. Per Milt’s request, a family only graveside service will be held October 2, 2021. In lieu of flowers a donation may be made to the BC Heart and Stroke Foundation.

Independently owned and operated

Cheers to Invermere Hospital health care and support staff for your dedication to caring for the community during the COVID-19 epidemic. Know that we honour and support all of you. Much appreciated! Cheers to all the friendly, helpful staff at Konig Meat Market. Great food, super customer service. Cheers to all the doctors and nurses for working so hard to keep us safe from this terrible COVID-19 virus.

INVERMERE DOWNTOWN – For Lease • 2,400 sq. ft. of Commercial space. • 712 – 10th St., UNIT “D” street level M&B Properties 250-341-1940 bruce@brucem.com

Please email classified ads to info@columbiavalleypioneer.com

Kristine (Kris) Kirstl Laine (Scaman, Anderson) Born in Finland April 9, 1924 to parents Krarti and Onto Laine, Kris was orphaned in 1939 and moved to Great Central Lake, Vancouver Island to live with her Uncle Koski at a floating logging camp. In 1943 at 19 years of age, she joined the Canadian Women’s Army Corps and served as a chef for the Officer Corps in Southern Ontario until the end of the war when she was discharged at the rank of Sargent. After leaving the army, Kris moved to Nanton Alberta where she met her first husband, Sid Sicaman. Subsequently they moved to Invermere in the early 1950’s. Kris spend nearly her entire Invermere career working for her friend, supporter and employer, Doug Kipp at Lamber-Kipp Pharmacy Kris was a Life Member of the Order of the Easter Star and a long time member of Daughters of the Nile. Kris was an avid Gardner, a fantastic chef and above all, an animal lover, both domestic and wild. She always had a cat and frequently adopted stray cats. She was predeceased by her first husband, Sid Scaman and Don Anderson of Invermere. She leaves to mourn may long time friends of 60+ years in the Invermere valley. Her cats and Invermere were her first loves.

20 • The Columbia Valley Pioneer

September 23, 2021

ACCOMMODATION WANTED Wanted to rent house or condo in Phoenix AZ or Palm Desert CA for 1 to 4 weeks from midJanuary to mid-February. Call or Text Rick at 250-347-9938.

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

NOTICES

THANK YOU

Thank You

WOODLOT LICENCE PLAN Notice is herby given that a new Woodlot Licence Plan for Woodlot 1562 will be submitted to the Rocky Mountain Forest District (FLNRORD) for approval. Woodlot Licence 1562 is located near the Horsethief Creek west of Radium, BC., owned by Starbird Timber Ltd (licensee: Adrian Messerli). The Woodlot Licence Plan was prepared in accordance with the Forest and Range Practices Act and the Woodlot Licence Planning and Practices Regulation and once approved will have a term of 10 years. A review and comment period begins September 23rd, 2021 and ends on October 23rd , 2021. The Woodlot Licence Plan is available upon request, please submit comments to Brian Amies, RPF by phone or email: Cell: 250-344-7354 / bdamies@gmail.com All comments received by October 23rd, 2021 will be considered before completion of the final Woodlot Licence Plan draft and included in the submission package.

WANTED Cash for all silver and gold! Bullion, bars, rounds, coins, jewellery + also buying coin collections and old money! Todd’s coins 1-250-864-3521 Retired Bachelor seeking Rural Rent or Care taking accommodation. No Vices, references can be provided. 1-250-426-4445.

FIREWOOD Pine Firewood. Pine and fir available. Call 250-342-6068.

SERVICES Pike Contracting Excavating and Skid Steer services. Call Jason 250-342-5277. LEE’S SMALL ENGINE REPAIR SHOP Specializing in chainsaws, tillers, trimmers & lawn mower repairs and maintenance. 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!

SERVICES B.B.’s Home & Design Services Master Craftsman & Stonemason, Renovation’s, Blinds & installation. Home interior/exterior repairs, yard maintenance, eavestrough cleaning, dump runs, house checks/cleaning. Over 35 year’s experience. Call 250-688-2897. The Heartfelt Companion: SERVICE FOR SENIORS Offers non-medical help to seniors in their home and respite for caregivers. Companionship, errands, transportation, personal care, meal prep and more. Excellent local references and credentials and a big, kind heart! Rest assured; COVID-19 precautions are in place to keep you safe. “The Heartfelt Companion team provide, in the truest sense, heartfelt companionship. They always have mom’s best interest in mind. I find that my family can once again enjoy our time with mom, as we know she is being cared for, lifting this responsibility from our shoulders. We can once again simply enjoy each other’s company. We have tremendous gratitude for their service.” 250-341-5683 www. heartfeltcompanionservices. com

HELP WANTED

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

A Note of Gratitude

To everyone who took the time to lend a hand at a time of need, we thank you so very much. To the professionals, to service organizations, to servers and volunteers. All had been very caring and kind. We are living in a community where we have so many good and kind people ready to help. We are Blessed

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.

Featured Listing

2577 Sandstone Circle

Thanks Again George & Mariane Comis

$798,900

LESSONS/TRAINING

HELP WANTED

Piano Lessons! 40 years EKbased. Arne Sahlen. All ages, levels; Conservatory to jazz & pop, also Theory. Bio on request. 250-540-4242 arnesahlen@ hotmail.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.

Executive Castlerock Home MLS 2459822 Check out the 3D tour at Rockies.realestate

Geoff Hill PREC* REALTOR® Fair Realty

250-341-7600

Please recycle this newspaper

www.geoffhill.ca

C O LU M B I A VA L L E Y P I O N E E R F E AT U R E P U B L I C AT I O N

ORANGE

SHIRT

DAY

In the Spirit of Healing and Reconciliation

Orange Shirt Day is a legacy of the St. Joseph Mission (SJM) residential school commemoration event held in Williams Lake, BC, Canada, in the spring of 2013. It grew out of Phyllis’s account of having her shiny new orange shirt taken away on her first day of school at the Mission, and it has become an opportunity to keep the discussion on all aspects of residential schools happening annually. The date was chosen because it is the time of year in which children were taken from their homes to residential schools, and because it is an opportunity to set the stage for anti-racism and anti-bullying policies for the coming school year. Orange Shirt Day is also an opportunity for First Nations, local governments, schools and communities to come together in the spirit of reconciliation and hope for generations of children to come.

AD RATES 2 col. (3.33” x 2”) ............................. $50 2 col. (3.33” x 4”) ............................. $95 6 col. (10.33” x 2”) ......................... $145

N E W S PA P E R

Booking /Copy Deadline: Friday, September 24th Published: Thursday, September 30th

For more information contact Amanda Nason or Lerissa McLaughlin at 250-341-6299 or e-mail advertising@columbiavalleypioneer.com to participate.

Thank you for your consideration of this endeavour, and we look forward to your reply.

September 23, 2021

The Columbia Valley Pioneer • 21

HELP WANTED

Wanted 2 F/T Restaurant Cooks, Rocky River Grill, 8888 Arrow Road, Invermere, B.C. Permanent, F/T shifts, overtime, weekends, days and evenings, $16/hour for 40 hours per week. Overtime after 40 hours. Minimum several years’ experience and completion of Secondary School. DUTIES: Prepare and cook full course meals, prepare and cook individual dishes and foods, ensure quality of food portions, work with minimal supervision, prepare dishes for customers with food allergies or intolerances. Inspect Kitchens and Food service areas. Please forward resume to Justin Atterbury by fax 250-342-8889 or email justatterbury@hotmail. com.

HELP WANTED

Akisqnuk First Nation

WE ARE HIRING

MAINTENANCE AND GROUNDS PERSON

Akisqnuk First Nation (“AFN”) is a member Community of the Ktunaxa Nation. The AFN Administration exists for the Community and is comprised of different departments unified by our Vision, Mission, and Values. As a team the AFN departments work together to achieve our goals and objectives as set out in our long- and short-term strategic plans. We continue to progress and move our community forward towards our Vision.

Needed in Windermere, year-round position. Please apply at terravistagm@gmail.com.

Tire Tech/ Or Mechanic Apprentice

AFN is currently posting for the following positions:

• Fiscal & Economic Director • Lands, Resources & Infrastructure Director • Human Resource Generalist • Education Manager (Term Position)

We are a Very Active Tire and Repair shop located in the Inveremere Industrial Park. We are Looking for a full-time Tire Tech or Mechanic’s Apprentice. Wages will depend on experience. We will pay between $18 and $25 per hour.

Phone Richard or Fred at 250-342-9316, or text 250-342-5316 or 250-342-1368. To begin immediately.

Everett Frater Enterprises now hiring Lawn maintenance employees for Mon-Fri, weekends off. Call 250-3425645. Big Horn Cafe, Radium Hot Springs- Looking for Part-time/ Full-time Assistant Baker- to help in the production-from scratch baked goods, No evenings or ridiculous early mornings, somewhat flexible hours, Negotiable per hour wage. Very competitive wages please apply at bighorncafe1@ outlook.com or phone 403-8612978.

Napa Auto Parts Invermere is looking for a

SALES REPRESENTATIVE to provide top quality service for our retail customers. This is a full time position Duties And Responsibilities: Handle customer calls and inquiries, Process customer orders at the counter and on the telephone, Maintenance of the storefront including stocking of all shelves, Warehouse support including shipping and receiving, as well as some parts delivery. Must be comfortable with computers and have a driver’s license with a clean abstract, able to drive a standard car is an asset. Contact Shannon or Ross at Invermere Napa Auto Parts, 150 Industrial Road 2 Invermere BC. Please email resume and references to shreimer@napacanada.com

Please call 250-341-6299 to place your classified ad.

For the entire Job Description & list of Qualifications, please visit our website: www.akisqnuk.org Please submit your cover letter and resume to: info@akisqnuk.org DEADLINE FOR ALL SUBMISSIONS: Friday, October 8, 2021

Don’t Miss an Issue!

automotive technician (A.K.A cAR HUGGER)

We’re hiring!

you have a knack for all things car. Quality is important to you. YOu love to work hard and get things done right. Sound like you? N E W S PA P E R

Read us online:

www.columbiavalleypioneer.com

We Offer:

Top wages, health benefits, clean workshop, Recreation allowance, positive culture, paid fun days, environmentally-conscious workplace and monday to friday schedule. red seal certification an asset.

KENPESQ’T HOLDINGS LIMITED

RESEARCH SCIENTIST OR BIOLOGIST REPORTS TO: Director, Territorial Stewardship

EXPERIENCE: • • • • •

Shuswap Band is looking for a Research Scientist or Biologist to support our growing organization in the • conservation and management of natural resources. The position will primarily involve supporting the Shuswap Band and its Territorial Stewardship department with research, development, planning, management, and implementation of environmental projects associated with various stewardship programs. The position will also be responsible for assisting the Director of Territorial Stewardship and Shuswap Band with the management of • cultural and natural resources. • We offer a competitive salary and benefits package commensurate with experience and are committed to • working with our employees to achieve their career goals within our organization. This position will provide exposure to large, multi-faceted projects and initiatives which are generally long-term in nature and require • both consistency and commitment. This is a unique opportunity for the ideal candidate with ability to steer • career changing activities. • • RESPONSIBILITIES INCLUDE: • • Responsible for delivering technical aspects of environmental projects; • Responsible for supporting and coordinating management of projects; • • Assisting with water quality, fish, wildlife, and vegetation assessments; • • Responsible for implementing all phases of projects, from planning to completion; • • Ensure high quality of project work and on-time and budget delivery of services; • • Develop work plans, capacity funding proposals and conservation funding grants; • • Conduct scientific research, assessments and studies, and report on findings; • • Organize and document critical information, developments and challenges for projects; and • Provide timely reports to the Director on project budgets, milestones and deliverables. •

Knowledge of provincial and federal environmental processes, regulations and best management practices; Diverse experience and skillset – aquatic and terrestrial biology (hydrology and water quality skills considered an asset); Knowledge of protected and endangered species populations, including conservation protection and rehabilitation; Advanced understanding of scientific research approaches, methodology, resources and techniques; Experience preparing B.C. regulatory permit applications (e.g. Section 11 Applications, Fish Collection Permits, Wildlife Permits, etc.); Experience preparing Environmental Management Plans and conducting Environmental Monitoring for construction projects.

SEND COVER letter and RESUME TO: aaron@cleanlineautomotive.com

QUALIFICATIONS: Demonstrated experience working with Indigenous Communities required; MSc in Environmental Science, Biology or related discipline preferred or relevant combination of academic and work-related experience; Registered with the College of Applied Biology in British Columbia (CAB) or ability to qualify for either BIT or R.P. Bio within 1 year; Require 3-5 years professional experience in environmental sciences or related discipline; Experience supervising environmental technicians in both office and field settings; Experience with project coordination, management, budgeting, and related administrative duties; Advanced computer skills in MS Office, knowledge of statistical software and GIS programs an asset; Excellent oral and written communication skills including experience delivering presentations, as well as writing scientific reports and funding proposals; Excellent interpersonal, problem solving and conflict resolution skills; Excellent attention to detail, organizational and time management skills; Ability to work independently as well as within a team setting; Ability to respond effectively to changing operational needs; Valid Class 5 BC driver’s license and reliable transportation; Training certificates in related areas are considered assets (e.g. First Aid, Swiftwater Rescue, Marine Emergency Duties, Small Vessel Operator Proficiency, and Backpack Electro Fishing); Must work on-site at the Shuswap Indian Band Territorial Office.

To apply contact the Shuswap Indian Band, #3, 492 Arrow Road, Invermere BC V0A 1K2 • Fax: 250.341.3683 Email: tainsworth@shuswapband.ca • Deadline for applications: Thursday, September 30th, 2021, 4 pm.

GENERAL LABOURER POSITION Knowledge in the area is an asset. However, training and/or apprenticeship training will be provided to the right applicant.

HVAC/SHEET METAL WORKER Applicant must be a ressponsible, self-motivated individual with a professional appearance and must have a valid BC Driver’s license. Please email or fax resume with references to Diamond Heating and Spas 385 Laurier Street, Invermere, BC V0A 1K7 Email: info@diamondheatingandspas.com or Fax: 250-342-7103

22 • The Columbia Valley Pioneer

September 23, 2021

New basking logs have improved turtle habitat Submitted by Columbia Wetlands Stewardship Partners The Western Painted Turtle (WPT) - Intermountain - Rocky Mountain Population (Chrysemys picta pop. 2) is British Columbia’s only native freshwater turtle species and is provincially blue-listed. Turtles need to obtain heat from their environment to thermoregulate. They need to actively seek out warm microhabitats and bask in the sun to elevate their body temperature, which is particularly important in spring and fall when ambient temperatures are low. Basking can occur several times a day, usually for several hours beginning at sunrise (before feeding occurs)

and sometimes again in the afternoon and evening. Turtles require basking features such as logs or other surfaces onto which they can easily climb onto and warm themselves (by thermoregulation) from their environment. Basking is a required part of a turtle’s life history and the lack of woody debris poses a problem for turtles. Basking raises a turtle’s body temperature to a suitable level, which is required for foraging and mating. Raising the body temperature also helps the turtle digest its food, provides an essential source of Vitamin D, and helps reduce ectoparasites on the turtle’s body. In 2021, the Lake Windermere District Rod & Gun Club engaged in a part of the Columbia Wetlands Stewardship Partners (CWSP) Western Painted Turtle Project and placed basking logs in ponds where basking logs were lacking or in short supply (determined through CWSP inventory work in 2020). A deficiency of basking sites in certain areas of the Columbia Valley could force turtles to compete with predators or other larger animals such as skunks or dogs that are also more aggressive than turtles for basking sites. The main objectives of the basking turtle component of this project are to enhance the turtle’s habitat by designing and installing lightweight and natural-looking basking strucPhoto submitted

tures and investigating turtle basking habits and preferences. Lake Windermere District Rod & Gun members have created basking logs from cedar hydro poles donated by BC Hydro. The poles have had their ends cut on an angle for turtles to climb onto, and the top was flattened slightly for basking. Anchor bolts were placed on each log, and an anchor was attached. Cement blocks were used for anchoring logs in place, which were donated by Barry Brown-John. The ponds selected this year for basking log deployment were Dorothy Lake, the pond below Canfor Radium Mill (just over the track along Horsethief Forestry Rd), and Armstrong Bay within Columbia Lake. Placement of logs took place during the periods of time that would pose the least amount of disturbance to birds. Since there is some discrepancy regarding the placement preference for WPT, some logs were attached to the shoreline and others were left floating in shallow water. The project biologist (Rachel Darvill of Goldeneye Ecological Services) is overseeing the project, and you can contact her with questions at racheldarvill@gmail.com. The Rod & Gun Club wants to thank BC Hydro, Barry Brown-John, Richard Halverson (for welding the anchor bolts together), Rona, CP Rail and club members who contributed to this basking log project. CWSP’s WPT project is part of the larger Kootenay Connect project, whose goal is to sustain biodiversity across local landscapes by focusing on habitat connectivity within and between valley bottoms and mountain ranges to sustain exceptional places of biodiversity. Kootenay Connect is funded by Environment and Climate Change Canada (ECCC) through the Canada Nature Fund with equal matching funding from local partners.

Terry Fox Run went virtual Submitted by Donna Scheffer Co-Coordinator Invermere Run Invermere’s 2021 Terry Fox Run may have had to be virtual again this year, but the Terry Fox spirit is alive and well in the Columbia Valley. Posters, banners and lawn signs were seen around town. A BBQ was held, T-Shirts were on sale to create awareness. Thanks to local businesses who put out donation boxes or had in-store promotions. The number of participants is not known at this time, but more than $8,000 was raised for the Terry Fox Foundation for cancer research.

Submitted photos

September 23, 2021

FAITH

The ethics of individual versus community By Brent Woodard, Anglican/United Church I have been greatly helped by the book “How Good People Make Tough Choices,” by Rushworth Kidder, on ethics. An ethical dilemma, he says, is a dilemma because it is a choice between two rights. It’s not a dilemma if it is a choice between right and wrong. For example, ‘should I shoplift or not?’ is not an ethical dilemma. It’s just wrong to shoplift (unless it’s a situation like that in Les Misérables). An ethical dilemma is a dilemma because it’s a choice between two virtues. Further, he says, all ethical dilemmas fall under four categories or spectrums. 1. Truth vs. Loyalty. 2. Shortterm vs. Long-term. 3. Justice vs. Mercy, and 4. Individual vs. Community. I find them all very interesting, but in this short article, I’d like to write about the last category, individual vs. community. The reason why a decision between the good or rights of an individual versus the good or rights of a community is an ethical dilemma is that both sides of the spectrum have merit. It is good to uphold, protect, and affirm what is best for an individual, and it is good to uphold, protect and affirm what is best for a community. Therein lies the dilemma. Continued ‘re-elected’ from page 3

ery debate or forum, and all the candidates had to at least face questions about some of the freedom issues stemming from the pandemic. While I may not have been thrilled with the other candidates’ answers, I am glad that clearly awareness about these issues is increasing...There is hope, going forward, in that there’s going to be a lot happening in the Kootenay in terms of freedom and rights.” Nelson told the Pioneer she was “disappointed for sure” with her vote share in Kootenay Columbia and the Green showing nationally. She noted that right across B.C. the Greens were down and the PPC up in roughly similar proportions as in Kootenay Columbia and said “I think that’s up to the vaccine mandate. That maybe made it difficult for us.” She said she also felt strategic voting hurt the Greens here, with many would-be Green voters opting instead to cast a ballot for Stetski, as the left-ofcentre candidate with the best chance to win the riding. That result, she said, “underscored the deep need for proportional representation. People need to be able to vote for the party they think is best, without worrying about what strategic fallout that might entail.” Nelson said she plans to do what she can to push for electoral reform, and that she may possibly run for the Greens again next time around, pointing out that if the party runs a new candidate each time, there is a lot of groundwork that needs to be constantly redone each election cycle.

LAKE WINDERMERE ALLIANCE CHURCH Now open for in-person services. Sundays at 10:30 a.m. 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. Canal Flats: Saturday 4.30 pm Canadian Martyrs, Invermere: Saturday 5 pm, Sunday 9 am. St. Joseph, Radium: Sunday 11.00 am Father Jojo Augustine • 712 -12th Ave., Invermere 250-342-6167

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

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

CHURCH OF JESUS CHRIST OF LATTERDAY SAINTS Worship Service, Sunday, 10 a.m. Relief Society, 11:15 a.m. President Rick Daniels • Columbia Valley Branch 5014 Fairway, Fairmont Hot Springs 250-421-3756

The Pioneer can

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

your message is resonating with residents and visitors alike.

He said he’s hopeful the federal NDP can wield influence on policy put forward by the Liberal minority government, saying the NDP had success with that in the last parliament, upping Canada Emergency Response Benefit (CERB) payment amounts and small business COVID-19 support. Asked if he plans to take a fourth run in Kootenay Columbia at the next federal election, Stetski replied “I’m going to take some time, go mountain biking, hiking, camping and then see where things are at.” Goldsbury had been gunning to greatly improve the Liberal vote share in Kootenay Columbia, and was disappointed not to have done so, but told the Pioneer that the back-to-back nine per cent vote shares in 2019 and 2021 stand in contrast to the noticeably smaller vote shares the Liberals had managed in the riding for much of the 21st century, and this bolsters her “firm belief that we are gaining traction here.” She added she is delighted with the Liberal forming federal government again. Bennett told the Pioneer that while she had hoped for more, she was heartened that the PPC leapt up in popularity at the polls. “The increase in support for the PPC is definitely linked to the fight for Charter rights,” she said, adding that controversy erupting around vaccine passports or vaccine cards and mandatory vaccinations as the election progressed was a big part of that. “COVID-19 was brought up in ev-

When I was a coach of grade-school students, I always faced this dilemma (whether I knew it or not). I needed to consider what was best for each person on the team. I needed to make it possible for each individual to participate, develop their skills and have a good experience. And I also needed to consider what was best for the team. We, collectively, wanted to be competitive and have success. As a coach, it was my job to struggle with the ethical dilemma of what was best for every child and what was best for the team. If I went to one side of the spectrum more than the other, I was avoiding my ethical responsibility as a coach. Throughout our lives, anyone who lives on this planet has to, ideally, live in the tension of this ethical dilemma. We grow up in families. Each person in a family has individual rights, like the right to privacy, the right to get their needs met, the right to act appropriately to their age. That is healthy. But living in a family also means there are community rights as well. Everyone needs to contribute to the functioning of the family. Everyone needs to consider how their words and actions affect others and modify themselves accordingly. That is also healthy. A functional family strikes the balance between what is right for the individual and what is right for the family; if we go over to one side of the spectrum more than the other, something is not healthy. There is tension in an ethical dilemma. If there is no tension or dilemma, chances are someone doesn’t understand what is going on or is trying to lessen the burden of being ethically responsible.

The Columbia Valley Pioneer • 23

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

www.columbiavalleypioneer.com

24 • The Columbia Valley Pioneer

September 23, 2021