Columbia Valley Pioneer, December 2, 2021

December 2, 2021 Vol. 18/Issue 48

The Columbia Valley Pioneer • 1

Your Weekly Source for News and Events

December 2, 2021

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December 2, 2021

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The BC fruit season is over, but we have a year-round fruit and vegetable produce section, in our new addition.

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Rain and warmer temperatures gave the Columbia Valley a reprieve before winter takes over. And it gave Lake Windermere a chance to refreeze smoothly for the Whiteway.

DECEMBER

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December 2, 2021

The Columbia Valley Pioneer • 3

VALLEY NEWS

Fieldstone Glen residents stuck with road situation After two months of pressing for resolution, strata neighbourhood left with new public road two to seven feet from back decks known for two years that the road would be built as an access route for the new Highland Mews development, but when work on the road started earlier this fall, they were shocked to see that it was just seven feet to two feet (between two metres and half a metre) from some of their back decks. The residents beseeched council to negotiate with Highlands News and the neighbouring Heron Point development to move the road further east (closer to Heron Point and at least a few feet further away from the Fieldstone back decks). They then suggested that instead of turning the right-of-way into a public road, that the district allow Highland Mews developers to create an access road in a different spot, off of 7th Avenue.

Resident’s frustration at the situation, and at the lack of communication from the district about its efforts at resolution, were evident during the Nov. 23 meeting.

“I feel our concerns are not being addressed...I feel Fieldstone Glen residents came to Invermere council again last week, pleading for help with the road constructhe district did not do their due diligence before aption issue impacting their strata community and pressing proval and we at Fieldstone Glen are paying the price,” said Fieldstone resident Linda Bradshaw. “Would any of council members for resolution.

The Fieldstone presentation came during the Tuesyou buy a home with only two to seven feet from your back deck to a public road? I don’t think so. And we had day, Nov. 23 Invermere council meeting, and was the fourth successive council meeting at which Fieldstone known, we wouldn’t have either.” residents had made their case, ever since construction Fieldstone resident Judy Smith spoke next, waving a began in mid September. After nearly two months of white flag as she did. “We give up,” began Smith noting the faulty decision to approve the road was council’s and such efforts by Fieldstone residents and with no change in the situation, it was impossible for the audience to “we (Fieldstone) are being steamrolled.” She noted the miss the heightened tone and charged atmosphere at the suggestions the residents have made “to no avail,” saying that they’ve “received only apathy and small appeaselast meeting, with visibly distraught Fieldstone residents at times choking back tears, literally waving an actual ment gestures in response.”

Construction continues to proceed in the meantime, white flag (in mock surrender), and lambasting council and the district for not exercising due diligence prior to said Smith. “Please just give us the courtesy of telling us granting the development variance permit allowing the you are not going to do anything...All we see you doing is nodding your heads each week and then passing it (the road to be built in the first place. issue) off to staff, or to legal (counsel), or to engineers...

All to naught in the end: At least two councillors and Invermere chief administrative officer Andrew yet all our (residents’) discussions with staff terminate Young personally offered apologies, but they and other with that the final say rests with council,” she said. “Is it that you want us to just go away and lick our wounds council and staff members said that efforts to shift the and live with the road? Just tell us...There has been no road further away from Fieldstone Glen had failed and an alternative location for the road was not financially accountability for the original error that got us in this feasible. mess two years ago. We have no faith in the process anyThe source of Fieldstone residents’ frustration is a more...We feel like we are in the movie Groundhog Day, public right-of-way immediately east and south of their Fieldstone Glen residents Victoria Gordon and Charleen Evans, with the same thing happening over and over again.” community which is being turned into a full fledged standing on Gordon’s back deck observe construction work.

Photo by Steve Hubrecht Continued on page 4... public road (15A Crescent). Fieldstone residents have

By Steve Hubrecht steve@columbivalleypioner.com

COVID-19 vaccine for all children aged five to 11 began

By Pioneer Staff info@columbiavalleypioneer.com On Monday, Nov. 29, children aged five to 11 years old began receiving vaccines across British Columbia.

“The pediatric COVID-19 vaccine directly protects children and will mean less disruption to the activities that are important to them, such as school, sports and social events,” said provincial health officer Dr. Bonnie Henry in a statement. “Once children are vaccinated, parents can feel more assured their children are safe, and children can feel empowered knowing they are taking another step to protect their grandparents, teachers, friends and loved ones.”

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The children are going to receive Pfizer’s pediatric vaccine, the first COVID-19 vaccine in Canada to be approved for children of that age group. The Pfizer vaccine for children five to 11 was approved by Health Canada on Nov. 19, 2021. It will provide a level of protection tailored to children’s immune systems using a lower dose (10 micrograms), which is one-third the dose formulated for older children and adults. Children should receive two doses of the vaccine, separated by eight weeks or more between the first and second dose, according to the National Advisory Committee on Immunization (NACI).

The vaccination of young children will take place at community clinics across the province, not at phar-

macies. Parents or guardians must give verbal or written consent, according to the province.

There are around 350,000 kids in the province eligible to start receiving the vaccine. More than 92,000 children have been registered in the province’s Get Vaccinated system. Registration ensures parents are notified by text or email when it is time to book their child’s appointment.

Parents or guardians with questions about the COVID-19 vaccine for their child can call 1-833-8382323, or visit gov.bc.ca/vaccineforkids.

Parents can also consult with their child’s pediatrician, family doctor or nurse practitioner so they can make the best decision for their child.

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4 • The Columbia Valley Pioneer

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RCMP Report Submitted by Sgt. Darren Kakuno Detachment Commander Columbia Valley RCMP This past week, Nov. 22 through Nov. 28, the Columbia Valley RCMP responded to 72 calls for service. The following is a summary of some of the files our officers responded to: • On Sunday, Nov. 21, Columbia Valley RCMP attended an address in Radium Hot Springs and recovered a MEC collapsible bicycle and a child carrier for a bicycle. The property was confirmed to be stolen from a shed in Radium Hot Springs on Nov. 18. Arrangements were made to return the property to the lawful owner.

• On Wednesday, Nov. 24, Columbia Valley RCMP received a report of a theft of tools from an enclosed utility trailer in Windermere. Investigators attended and identified a property on Subdivision Road in Windermere where the bulk of the stolen items were housed. Officers conducted a search of the residence and recovered the stolen tools. The investigation is ongoing.

• On Wednesday, Nov. 24, a good Samaritan attended the front counter of the Columbia Valley Detachment and turned over a wallet that was found in Invermere.

The wallet contained the owner’s identification and $275

Continued ‘Fieldstone’ from page 3...

An Outdoor Evening of Commemoration and Remembrance

December 9th, 2021 at 6:30 pm $10 per name This year’s Tree of Lights will be held in your community at: Invermere: Healing Garden at Columbia House Radium: Outside the Village Office Fairmont: Outside the Lion’s Den Canal Flats: Outside the Discovery Centre

Please find your Tree of Lights forms around your communities, or you can register online at hospicesocietycv.com Special Thanks to our Tree of Lights Sponsors

Please deliver completed forms by December 2nd to the Invermere Hospice Office: Unit 103, 926 7th Ave. (Frater Landing), Invermere, BC

December 2, 2021

“I do think some of your comments are inflammatory...that council lacks humanity,” protested councillor Gerry Taft.

Invermere chief administrative officer Andrew Young explained the negotiations between the district, Highland Mews and Heron Point had failed because “unfortunately at the last minute there were unreasonable demands made of the developer and as a consequence all of that good work (at negotiating a solution) evaporated” and that access off 7th Avenue isn’t feasible because it would entail moving existing sewer and water lines “that would be extremely expensive to relocate.”

Several Fieldstone residents said this was the

cash. Police were able to return the wallet and cash to its grateful owner.

• On Thursday, Nov. 25, at about 11:30 a.m. Columbia Valley RCMP received a report of a single vehicle collision on Highway 93 near Numa Falls in Kootenay National Park. The driver reportedly lost control of his Ford pickup and drove into the ditch. The driver was uninjured, but the truck had to be towed from the ditch.

• On Friday, Nov. 26, at about 9 a.m., police responded to a report of a single vehicle collision on Highway 93 near Dog Lake in Kootenay National Park. The driver of a commercial transport truck failed to negotiate a curve, struck a concrete no post, then became jackknifed on the highway. The uninjured driver was able to move the truck off the highway and arrange for his own tow.

• On Sunday, Nov. 28, shortly after midnight, Columbia Valley RCMP received a report of a two vehicle collision on Highway 93 near Paint Pots in Kootenay National Park. Police located two commercial transport trucks pulled off to the side of the highway. Upon speaking to the drivers, police learned a transport truck was attempting to pass a second transport truck when the driver lost control and struck the trailer of the other truck.

Neither driver was injured.

first update they’d had on the negotiations or the alternative access proposal, and expressed frustration at not being kept informed.

“I’m sorry the circumstances are not what you would wish for. We certainly tried,” said Young. “I think we’ve done everything possible. I wish the news for you was better.”

Councillors Greg Anderson and Kayja Becker also personally apologized, with Anderson saying, “it’s going to leave a terrible situation...I’m sorry.”

Bradshaw asked if they were sorry enough to buy her house, and receiving no direct reply, let her arms slump down before she and other Fieldstone residents filed out of the community centre, some with tears in their eyes.

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December 2, 2021

Keep dogs on leash, drive slowly Increase in dog-bighorn conflicts and start of sheep traffic fatalities in Radium

By Steve Hubrecht steve@columbiavalleypioneer.com The fall rut has started for bighorn sheep in Radium Hot Springs, and local wildlife enthusiasts are asking the public to keep their dogs on leash, and to slow down when driving in and around the village.

The rut has started, and “there is chasing (between rams and ewes) going on,” Radium outdoorsman, Kent Kebe, told the Pioneer on Wednesday, Nov. 24.

The fall rut (during which the breeding-focused sheep may be less acutely attentive to their surroundings than normal) often sees a spike in the number of traffic-related bighorn fatalities, and one has already occurred this year. In addition,

a new trend — an increase in the number of dog-bighorn conflicts — has emerged during this rut.

Kebe explained that the traffic fatality was a class-one bighorn ram that had been hit on Highway 93/95 near the second viewpoint on the hill just south of the village, and noted that speed was likely a factor, since the ram died instantly and since there were quite a few vehicles parts at the scene. Speeding means less time for drivers to react if a bighorn steps into their vehicle’s path, as well as higher impacts when bighorns do get hit.

“So it’s starting,” said Kebe, noting there were plenty of bighorn traffic fatalities during the fall rut last year.

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Continued on page 23...

Freestyle Panorama Ski Club gears up for winter on the slopes Local club promotes all-female Girl Stylerz program

By Steve Hubrecht steve@columbiavalleypioneer.com The Freestyle Panorama Ski and Snowboard Club is back again this winter.

The club offers a fun, structured option for kids wanting something beyond traditional ski lessons or ski racing programs, and continues to grow from strength to strength.

“We’ve been in the valley for 10 to 15 years,” head coach Nate Bundschuh told the Pioneer. “We teach kids how to ski everything from freeride to the park to moguls. It’s a really cool program.”

For freestyle skiers with a competitive bent, the club holds competitions on our home hill for entry-level and aspiring athletes. It also takes some of its members to competitions around the province. Some past freestyle club members have even graduated on to ski for the B.C. freestyle team.

“But our main focus is on fun. If we’re not having fun, then I’m not doing my

FALL

job. For us, it’s about learning freestyle ski skills in a fun, safe environment.”

Last year the club had 55 members and this year looks set to grow to 85 members.

The club is putting special emphasis this winter on its Girlstylerz camps, which get female participants working with female coaches and mentors.

“By making an all-female environment, it can help take away some of the social pressure that some female participants might feel. It’s a really neat program, and one that is very popular,” said Bundschuh.

“We are very excited to have added a competitive snowboard program this year for those that chose one plank instead of two.

With competitions being held around the province and at Panorama.”

The club runs programs on Friday afternoons, Saturdays and Sundays, and offers a variety of multi-day programs and camps as well.

To learn more, visit www.freestylepanorama.com.

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6 • The Columbia Valley Pioneer

PERSPECTIVE

Shop local

December 2, 2021

Historical Lens

By Camille Aubin camille@columbiavalleypioneer.com December is finally here! We can now hang up our Christmas decorations and discuss the holidays without fear of being reprimanded by the Grinches of this world.

After setting up your Christmas tree, one of the first things most people begin to think about is the gifts that will slip underneath. In this day and age, unfortunately, this is often stressful, but it doesn’t have to be. It all depends on how you choose to accomplish this task.

Buying local means favoring the purchase of products made in B.C., shopping at independent businesses in your neighbourhood, or preferring B.C. companies to large multinationals. The pandemic has been tricky for several convenience stores and manufacturers in British Columbia. This year, why not make an extra effort to procure stocking stuffers or the bigger under-the-tree gifts from local and producers? And if not that, then at least items that are sold by local independent businesses?

Buying local doesn’t have to be more expensive. And if the price tag is a bit higher, remember: B.C. artisans are often using higher quality materials in their products.

Local traders are passionate entrepreneurs who know their products very well. From neighborhood hardware stores to established fashion designers, everyone is an expert in their own field. They can therefore advise their clients and adapt to their needs.

Buying used items is a great way to take it easy on your wallet, and such purchases are also good for the environment and, often as not, are a great way to shop locally too. Even a made-in-China product can become a ‘buy local’ gift if it is a used purchase because all the money you are spending stays here in the valley’s economy.

Buying used gifts should give you an abundance of gift ideas. Whether it’s sporting goods, CDs, DVDs, video games, books, clothing, furniture, antiques, kitchenware, electrical appliances, or anything else, chances are somebody here is selling just what you need. Just scour local garage sales, thrift stores, classified ads, and finally, the (if you must) Facebook Marketplace.

So this year, think twice before driving a few hours to do your shopping. Do it in town instead. If you feel you must buy online, keep that local too, and buy from a seller here in the valley.

Jessie Lockhart and Jim Frater, siblings, at the museum.

C1927, 1980, courtesy Windermere District Historical Society

One challenge after the other Dear Editor:

As 2021 nears the end, we British Columbians continue to face yet another challenge with our current weather disaster. It seems we get through one challenge and are met with another. However, with all these challenges, a common thread appears - the ability of our communities to work together to face these challenges and overcome them. And, repeatedly, we witness this in the Columbia Valley.

With the holiday season approaching, this spirit continues to grow with hopes of better things and making positive changes in the future. It is heartwarming to see all the holiday festivity events posted on shop bulletin boards around town and all the holiday cheer being expressed by those who live here. There is a strong sense of support for fundraising to buying local gifts from our shops, markets and food producers in our communities.

The Columbia Valley is a wonderful place to live. And, the holiday season is a time to reflect on our blessings and be reminded that we can all make a difference by sharing our goodwill and kindness to those around us.

Cindy Reekie, Radium Hot Springs

Photo by Sincerely Media on Unsplash

The Columbia Valley

CANADIAN COMMUNITY NEWSPAPER AWARD 2013

Pioneer

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

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

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

Amanda Nason

Associate Publisher/ Sales Manager Ext. 102

Camille Aubin Editor Ext. 106

Steve Hubrecht Magazine Editor/ Reporter Ext. 105

Haley Grinder

Local Journalism Initiative Reporter Ext. 107

Lerissa McLaughlin Sales Representative Ext. 103

Emily Rawbon Graphic Design Ext. 104

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.

December 2, 2021

The Columbia Valley Pioneer • 7

Photo by Tim Mossholder on Unsplash

DISTRICT OF INVERMERE

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

NOTICE OF ROAD CLOSURE

First Nations Health Authority increase mental health supports

By Haley Grinder Local Journalism Initiative Reporter The First Nations Health Authority (FNHA) is offering financial support for those affected directly or systemically from the trauma caused by the Indian Residential Schools. On Friday, Nov. 26, the FNHA announced the funding opportunity for Indigenous B.C. residents or organizations who offer mental health, cultural, and emotional services.

The recent efforts for reconciliation are apparent, especially after earlier this year when the horrific discovery of 215+ children buried at the site of what was formerly Kamloops Indian Residential School was brought to light. The intergenerational trauma caused from other residential schools has also surfaced with this finding.

The funds allotted will total approx-

imately $8 million, and will be available until the end of the fiscal year 2021/22 and will fill a known gap in trauma-informed cultural and emotional supports available to First Nations in B.C. In the official FNHA press release, they say it “is available to current IRS contribution agreement holders with the FNHA to expand existing services provided through the Indian Residential Schools Resolution Health Support Program (IR RHSP), Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls Health and Cultural Supports (MMIWG HS), Indian Day Schools Health and Cultural Supports (IDS HS) and new service providers.”

The deadline to apply for funding is Wednesday, Dec. 15. For those who would like to apply or get more information on eligibility requirements, email IRSneeds@fnha.ca.

Cram the Cruiser 2020 Photo by Amanda Nason

Sixth annual Cram the Cruiser toy drive

By Camille Aubin camille@columbiavalleypioneer.com Canadian Tire and the Columbia Valley RCMP are teaming up to host the “Cram the Cruiser” event on Saturday, Dec. 4. Drop off your unused and unwrapped toys at the Canadian Tire by the Invermere crossroads from 10 a.m to 2 p.m.

Through the Christmas Bureau of the

Columbia Valley, donated toys will be given to families in need.

“Our community has always been extremely supportive of this event, and we are looking forward to having another wonderful year and positivity affecting the lives of many families in the valley on Christmas morning,” said Jaimie.

For more information, contact Jaimie Cote at 250-342-4433.

Light Up the Holidays Santa Claus Parade Saturday December 4th, 2021 Several road sections in Downtown Invermere will be closed this Saturday, starting at 4:30 pm for traffic and parking for the “Light Up the Holidays” Santa Claus Parade.

4th St. by the TELUS building / 7th Ave. to the Bank of Montreal will be closed off to traffic and parking starting at 4:30 pm. 13th Ave towards the Arena will be closed to traffic when the parade begins. The Santa Claus Parade will begin at 5:30 pm from Pothole Park, traveling alongside Parkside Place, down 7th Ave and ending at the Eddie Mountain Memorial Arena.

To prevent the spread of COVID-19 and to protect the community, parade participants and spectators are required to follow all public health orders and COVID-19 guidelines.

Mandatory physical distancing must be always maintained between members of different households.

Masks are encouraged to be worn where physical distancing is not possible.

If you have had close contact with a confirmed case of COVID-19 or are experiencing COVID-19 or flu-like symptoms, please stay home.

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8 • The Columbia Valley Pioneer

December 2, 2021

General Meeting Special General Meeting – December 16, 2021 6:30 pm as per Article 7 of the Bylaws of Family Dynamix Association.

This will be a virtual meeting and as a result requires pre-registration to participate. Please contact Pat x Cope 5.08 6 250-688-0673 to register.

Delivered to your mailbox this month!

happy holidays from all of us at Columbia Basin Trust!

Request your free 2022 #basinlife calendar at ourtrust.org/calendar

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

Annual Feed the Town event returns

By Camille Aubin camille@columbiavalleypioneer.com December is upon us, and Copper Point Golf Club is putting on the 18th annual Feed the Town event to make sure all those living in the Columbia Valley have a holiday meal during the upcoming holiday season.

“Last year the support from everyone was amazing, and donations record breaking, and we hope for the same this year,” said the Columbia Valley Food Bank (CVFB) on its Facebook page.

“The CVFB is so appreciative of the efforts of Brian Schaal and his staff in making this fundraising Feed the Town 2020 event possible.”

Feed the Town will host the event at Copper Point Golf Club on Sunday, Dec. 5, from noon to 7 p.m. or until the food runs out. Residents are encouraged to attend and, if possible, to donate monetary and food donations to the CVFB, such as non-perishable food items, toilet paper, toothpaste, diapers, etc.

“Every year, the Copper Point Team and many volunteers make this community initiative a huge success. We are so proud to support our community and can’t believe this is the 18th year,” said Brian Schaal, general manager of Copper

Point Golf Club. “Santa and the Grinch will be here handing out meals and available for pictures.”

Because of the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, the format of Feed the Town will also be the same as the successful drive-through event last year, which took place in front of the Copper Point clubhouse. Reservations are not required. The prepackaged meal will consist of the usual holiday favourites; turkey, ham, mixed vegetables, mash potatoes, stuffing, and gravy. “They will have to take the meal home and reheat it,” explained Schaal.

Last Photo by Camille Aubin year, approximately 1,100 meals were served during the 17th Feed the Town. Three truck-loads of non-perishable food were donated, and a total of $11,145 in cash or check was collected during the fundraising. Schaal is hoping “to feed 1,200 people and raise over $12,000 and 5 truck-loads of food.”

“A huge thank you to everyone that continues to come out and support the event with non-perishable food items and cash or check donations to the Columbia Valley Food Bank. We live in a great community,” said Schaal.

Copper Point’s 18 Annual Feed the Town th

You’re invited to make a difference!

We are pleased to announce that we will be hosting the 18th Annual Feed the Town in support of the Columbia Valley Food Bank on Sunday, December 5th from 12-7 pm (until supplies last).

Simply drive up to the bag drop off area to receive your meal. Please note, the number of meals will be dependent on the number of passengers in the vehicle.

This year will be drive-thru only. Instead of eating inside The View Restaurant, the team at Copper Point is going to prepare your meal to-go so that it can be enjoyed in your comfort of your home. Please note that meals are portioned and must be re-heated at home.

We will be accepting non-perishable food items as well as cash donations in support of the Food Bank.

250-341-3392 • copperpointgolf.com

December 2, 2021

The Columbia Valley Pioneer • 9

Local mountain biker making dramatic recovery Radium resident who broke neck in horrific crash now on track to heal 100 per cent

By Steve Hubrecht steve@columbiavalleypioneer.

It was early morning, before breakfast. Spring sunlight filtered through the towering cedars. A perfect day, and Radium Hot Springs resident Kelly Kokolski was making the most of it, spinning along an easy, open mountain biking trail at a cracking good clip.

Kelly had gotten up early, as he always does, slammed back a cup of coffee and slipped quietly out of his family’s campsite in Kokanee Creek Provincial Park, on the shore of the West Arm of Kootenay Lake. The family — Kelly, his wife Abby, and their six-year-old son Jasper — had come from Radium to Kokanee Creek for a mini family vacation. It was mid-May; before the long weekend. Abby and Jasper were still waking up, so Kelly decided to take advantage of the post-dawn, pre-breakfast stillness and go for a ride. He put on the new helmet he had bought at a Nelson bike shop just the day before, hopped on his bike and pedalled to the iconic North Shore trails network, not far up the mountainside from the campground.

Squeezing the most out of every hour, every moment of the day, is something Kelly does out of habit. It’s just who he is. This May morning ride was a perfect example of the benefits of an up-and-at-’em enthusiastic-for-life personality, and Kelly was enjoying it. At this point, he’d been riding the trail network with a good friend for several days and knew it well. He wanted a break from the gnarly technical black (advanced) trails he and his friend had ridden most of the week and chose instead a gentle blue (intermediate) trail. The trail — called Goosebumps — flowed well, and there was a fresh breeze on Kelly’s face. He came to a stretch that was wide, flat and straight, so he let his bike cruise with plenty of speed.

“I was ripping fast, like I normally do,” Kelly told the Pioneer. At 41 kilometres per hour, in fact, according to his odometer.

Suddenly out of nowhere, something — maybe a root, maybe a rock, maybe a twig on the ground, who knows? — caught Kelly’s wheel and set him sailing off his bike, careening headfirst into a cedar tree lying cut down on the side of the trial.

The impact knocked Kelly unconscious. “I was out maybe a few seconds. When I came to, I was lying on my side. My left arm was completely numb,” he said. Kelly is well versed in first aid, as a certified Wilderness First Responder. He knew immediately that his situation was serious. Very serious.

Kelly took a deep breath, exhaled, and — doing his best to keep his neck as still as possible (“super still. Super, super still”) — he slowly rolled over onto this back.

Using his first aid training, he assessed each part of his body as he lay there.

“I knew almost immediately that my neck was broken. I had nerve pain shooting down my arm. My brandnew helmet looked like a sledgehammer went right through it. In fact, I’m certain that helmet saved my life,” said Kelly. He ran a finger down his spine to check for damage there. Nothing major. He took stock of his pelvis, pressing down on it with his right hand. It seemed intact, meaning he wasn’t at risk of internal hemorrhaging.

But his sternum screamed with pain (“excruciating”), and he was having a hard time breathing.

Battle to get out Kelly often carries an InReach emergency satellite device, but didn’t have it that morning. Using his right hand, the one without shooting pain, he reached into his backpack and pulled out his cell phone. The battery was dead.

He guessed it was about 8 a.m. “No InReach, a dead phone, a broken neck and the breathing,” said Kelly. “It

Ripping it in North Shore Nelson a few days before the crash ripping it in North Shore Nelson a few days before the crash.

Submitted photo

was very early, on a weekday, at a time of year when few people are using the trails. And there are a lot of bears in the area. Normally I would wait for somebody to find me. But I knew I could be waiting a very long time, maybe too long. I didn’t have many options: I had to get out.”

Kelly did his best to self-immobilize his neck and back, then (gently, so gently) rolled over onto his hands and knees. “It was a battle,” admits Kelly, owing to the searing pain. From his hands and knees, he carefully rose to his feet.

He realized walking normally was impossible, given the physical state he was in. So Kelly lifted up his bike, and using it as a crutch to support his weight, began to make his way — agonizingly slowly — down the trail. “It was tiny step, tiny step, tiny step. Really slowly,” he said.

After what felt like forever, Kelly came out the bottom of the trail to Highway 3A. The initial physical shock was starting to wear off and “now the pain was something else. Unbelievable.” He thought about hitchhiking, but doubted any driver would stop in the midst of the COVID-19 pandemic to pick up a stranger. And even if they did, Kelly figured trying to get into most types of vehicles could easily further damage his broken neck.

Continued on page 12...

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10 • The Columbia Valley Pioneer

December 2, 2021 Welcome to the brand new two page spread, brought to you by the Columbia Valley Chamber of Commerce!

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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 Thanks for coming! Stay a while...

Fairmont Friday Shopping

On December 10th, 11 am – 7 pm make sure you come to Fairmont to shop big and win even bigger!

The annual Fairmont event where businesses are open all day and extra late with exclusive offers is back!

a king, pool-facing suite, 1-hour couples massage, hot springs pool passes, 2 adult ski packages, and breakfast for two. The prizes don’t stop there, you can also win a 2-night stay in a 2-bedroom luxury con-

Your first stop is at the Fairmont Lions’ Hall to collect your shopping passport and grab some baked treats. From there, shop and eat your way around participating businesses and get your passport stamped at each stop. When you have filled your bags and your stomach, head back to the Lion’s Hall to enter your passport in the draw to win.

BU

The grand prize is a ‘WinPackNE ter Couples age’ at Fairmont SS ES Hot Springs 1 night OF including accommoTH E W dation in

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Visit these participating businesses:

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Farside Inn Fairmont Pizza & Ice Cream La Galeria II Cabin Cannabis Purple Cow Gift Shop Maxwell Realty Fairmont From Scratch Foods Inc. • Sushi Sawa Kitchen & Eatery • Fairmont Creek Property Management Ltd • The Local Coffee House • Fairmont Mountainside Grocery Store

If you have a Fairmont business and would like to register for the shopping day, please contact Chelsea Fields at community@ cvchamber.ca

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December 2, 2021

cvevents cv events.ca .ca

The Columbia Valley Pioneer • 11

WHAT’S HAPPENING?

• 7:30 pm: Beer League Hockey, Canal Flats. If you are interested in participating in a non-contact BEER league season please send us an email at badgershockey2019@ gmail.com and we can fill you in on the details. Carpooling from Invermere available.

scan me!

Thursday, December 2

Wednesday, December 8

• 8-9 pm: Adventure Smart Series, Virtual. You’re invited to our virtual table to “get informed before you go outdoors’ as we focus on safety for snowmobiling, backcountry ski touring and snowshoeing.

• 2pm - 3:30pm: Wells, Water Levels, and Windermere Creek: Exploring Current Groundwater Data and 3D Modelling. A FREE webinar presented by Lake Windermere Ambassadors, Living Lakes Canada and Friends of Windermere Creek for interested stakeholders. Email shannon@lakeambassadors.ca. Register at https://livinglakescanada.ca/2021/11/17/windermerecreekwebinar.

Friday, December 3 • Invermere Film Festival Deadline: “We are very excited to announce our first Young Filmmaker’s Competition, open to all residents of the Columbia Valley. There will be two categories: 18 & Under, and 12 & Under. https://www.facebook.com/MountainfilmOnTourInvermere/ • 7:30 pm: Columbia Valley Rockies vs Creston Valley, Eddie Mountain Memorial Arena.

Doors open at 6:30pm and close at 7:45pm. There will be no late entries or re-entries during the game. No exceptions.

Saturday, December 4 • 11 am-3 pm: ICAN Christmas Mini Photoshoot, Bosley’s in Invermere. $10/ photo, $5 for additional prints. To register (and support this amazing cause) email here: gonordestelle@gmail.com • 5:30 pm: Light Up the Holidays Santa Claus Parade, Downtown Invermere. Mark your calendars for Saturday December 4th, 2021!!! The “Light Up the Holidays” Santa Claus Parade will begin at 5:30pm leaving from Pothole Park, down 7th Ave and will end at the Eddie Memorial Arena. Register a float by emailing Cortney Pitts at events@ invermere.net or call 250-342-9281 ext 1232.

Sunday, December 5 • 12-7 pm: Feed the Town Drive-Thru. Copper Point Golf (until supplies last). Simply drive up to the bag drop off area to receive your meal. Please note, the number of meals will be dependent on the number of passengers in the vehicle. We will be accepting non-perishable food items as well as cash donations in support of the Food Bank • 1-4 pm: Santa Paws & Grinchy Claws Pet Photos, Arrowhead Brewery. Bring your pets, (and/or your kids) and have their photo taken with Santa Claus or the Grinch.We’re accepting donations for the Columbia Valley Christmas Bureau, who work to ensure everyone has a happy holiday in our Valley.

Tuesday, December 7 • 8-9 pm: Adventure Smart Series, Virtual. You’re invited to our virtual table to “get informed before you go outdoors’ as we focus on safety for snowmobiling, backcountry ski touring and snowshoeing.

Ongoing Events

Thursdays • 9 am: Thrift Store donation Drop Off. • 10 am: Parent and Tot Connect. Parent and Tot Connect program by Family Dynamix for children ages 0-6, starting September 21st. Pre Registration is required, contact Contact mferster@fdx.family or text 250-341-8678.

• 10:30-11:30 am: Drop-in Seniors Fitness Class at the Columbia Valley Centre. $2 per class. Proof of vaccination required.

• 1:30 pm: OKO/Po-Keno. . $2 (plus some nickels) Senior’s Hall. Must be fully vaccinated • 3 pm: Youth Drop-In Fun. The Summit Youth Hub is back open for FREE after-school fun! Grades 7-12 are invited to come for free food, safe hang out areas, Friday skate nights, virtual reality, gaming computers and our music room! MASKS ARE MANDATORY.

Fridays

• 9-10:30 am: Momfit & Preschool Group at the Columbia Valley Centre. Proof of vaccination required for caregivers. Invermere Public Library Storytime to follow at 10:45 am.

• 10:30 am: Story Time with the Invermere Public Library. Join us for stories, songs and a take-home craft!

• Wing Day at the Edgewater Legion. Every Friday is Wing Day at the Edgewater Legion!

12 pm Take Out, 5pm Dine In! www.facebook.com/RCL199 or call 250-347-9725.

• 1 p.m.: Duplicate Bridge. $2. Senior’s Hall, Must be fully vaccinated.

• 4-8 pm: Pub Grub at the Invermere Legion, Every Friday and Saturday, Wings & Things, Pub Grub in the Branch.

• 5 pm: Magic the Gathering, Come for Friday Night Magic & play Magic the Gathering!

5:30 pm start. Entry: $10-40 depending on format. Call 250-342-3440 for details. No registration required, but space is limited. Ages 10+.

• 6 pm Rotary Community Bingo. Must be 19+ to play. Online live bingo games with the purpose to raise money for various community charities, organizations and businesses who have been affected by the Covid-19 pandemic. Choose to support a local Rotary Club with your ticket purchase!

Saturdays

• 4-8 pm: Pub Grub at the Invermere Legion, Every Friday and Saturday, Wings & Things, Pub Grub in the Branch.

Sundays

• On Sundays and Mondays, the Rotary Club or Kinsmen Club collects refundable bottles and cans at the Invermere Transfer Station! We sort and deliver for refund - this money goes “right back into the community” through our Projects and Initiatives!!

• 1:30 pm: Crib. $2. Senior’s Hall. Must be fully vaccinated.

Mondays

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

• 10:30-11:30 am: Drop-in Seniors Fitness Class at the Columbia Valley Centre. $2 per class. Proof of vaccination required.

• 1:30 pm: Carpet Bowling. $2 Senior’s Hall Must be fully vaccinated.

• 6 - 9 pm LGBTQ+ and Allies Youth Group. LGBTQ+ and Allies are invited to attend the Summit Youth Hub’s weekly drop-in for youth. Every Monday, ages 12-18. Snacks + a safe space!

Tuesdays

• Tech Time Thursdays: Invermere Library, 10:15am-1 pm. Radium Library 1:30-4 pm.

Need some help with your computer, phone or tablet? Make a Tech Time appointment for FREE one-on-one tech support! CBAL will be at the Invermere Library on Thursdays from 10:15 am-1 pm. Please call the library at 250-342-6416 to book an appointment.

• 10 am: Parent and Tot Connect. Family Dynamix will be running an indoor Parent and Tot Connect program for children ages 0-6, starting September 21st. Pre Registration is required, contact Contact mferster@fdx.family or text 250-341-8678 • 6-10 pm:Youth/Teen Drop in Fun - Invermere. NEW this year, the Summit Youth Hub is taking our youth centre on the road to Edgewater and Canal Flats! We will be bringing our mobile skate park, BBQ, tunes and so much more! This is where you can pick up your Summer Snack Pack too!

Wednesdays

• 10:30-11:30 am: Family Dynamix hosts a Catch-up Cafe for the Columbia Valley every Wednesday morning on ZOOM for those isolated and unable to get out as much because of Covid 19.Tricia at patkin@familydynamix.ca • 12:30 pm: $2 Duplicate Bridge. Senior’s Hall. Must be fully vaccinated • 4-5 pm: Sparks and Brownies For girls 5-7yrs. Meeting at Spiderweb park (west of the Invermere hospital) • 6 pm: Drop in Utimate Frisbee. JA Laird Sports Field. $20 registration fee for the season. Please bring cash or transfer to justin@justinkeitch.com • 6-8 pm Legion Legend Wednesday Dinners. Reservation by Saturday is required.

• 7 pm: Trivia Night at the Station Pub. $3/ person, max 6 people per team. No cell phones allowed! Minors must be accompanied by an adult.

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12 • The Columbia Valley Pioneer

December 2, 2021

Continued ‘mountain biker’ from page 9...

The campground was only a kilometre along the highway, and mostly downhill. So he lowered his bike saddle, threw one leg over the bike, let this left arm droop down, and gingerly coasted back to Kokanee Creek, rolling right into his family’s campsite.

Abby and Jasper were finishing off breakfast, and seeing Kelly roll in, they knew right away that something was terribly wrong. “I said ‘Hi hon, I think I broke my neck’,” recalled Kelly. “I wanted to lie down, but knew that if I did, I wouldn’t get up again. I didn’t even want to wait the time it would take an ambulance to come out.

Abby quickly cleared out our truck, so I could lie in it, my backpack and helmet still on, and we drove straight to the Nelson hospital.”

“Beyond lucky” Within five minutes of entering the hospital, Kelly got a CT scan. The results were sent to a neurosurgeon.

“The medical staff didn’t tell me the results right away.

But I could tell from the way they were acting that it was not good,” said Kelly. “Eventually the neurosurgeon told me I was lucky. Extremely lucky. Beyond lucky. That most people who crashed like I did would probably be dead. And if not dead, then likely with total paralysis or other permanent neurological damage. The fact that I was alive and moving was a miracle.”

Submitted photo Kelly Kokolski in Nelson waiting for transport to Kelowna.

Kelly had suffered a number of injuries: multiple fractures in C7, including a left pars interarticularis fracture, breaks on the facet joints at C7, and to the pedicle on the right side of C6. “I also had what’s called anterolisthesis, which means that my vertebrae had shifted, and were pinching my spinal cord,” he said.

He was put in an ambulance and whisked off on a five-hour drive to the neurological department at the Kelowna hospital. Three days later, Kelly underwent a three-hour surgery to remove the disc between C6 and C7 and replace the disc with a polyetheretherketone spacer (PEEK) filled with demineralized bone matrix.

The fractures were stabilized with an anterior titanium fixation plate and four screws. “This brought my cervical spine back into natural alignment and stabilized my facet joints,” he explained.

The next morning, Kelly woke and stood up out of bed. Later that day, he was able to walk to the X-ray room. Less than 24 hours after the surgery, Kelly was discharged and walked out the front door of the hospital.

Kelly’s parents live nearby in Vernon and he, Abby and Jasper stayed with them for a few weeks.

Long road to recovery Kelly approached his recovery through this past summer and fall with the same zest that he approaches much in life. This included: osteopathy, physiotherapy, massage therapy and a healthy diet. Growing (and consuming) kale and spinach and other vitamin-rich leafy greens in the family’s plot in the Radium community garden.

Eating more eggs than normal for extra protein. And as much exercise as he was allowed. Only two days after his surgery he went for a 10-kilometre walk. He had to wear

a neck collar for 13 weeks, but did as much walking and hiking as possible in it.

Not long after the collar came off, in August, he, Abby and Jasper went camping again. It was three days of family fun, mostly hanging out in hammocks. But Kelly had finally gotten the go-ahead to bike again, so he went for a ride on the Lazy Lizard trail, a gentle green (beginner) trail that winds, just as Goosebumps does, among soaring cedars.

To be rolling on a bike again, slipping softy between cedars “it was a joyous occasion. Lying there in the hospital bed, before the surgery in Kelowna, I wasn’t sure I would ever get to ride a bike with my son again. I didn’t know what the future was going to be like. And that didn’t sit well with me. So to be able to get back on my bike later the same season — that was amazing,” he said.

Kelly is back biking, hiking and otherwise active, but he is being prudent and cautious, dialing back the risk factor. “For two years, while that bone material grows in, I really have to avoid any other kind of catastrophic impact scenarios, be that from falling while biking fast or getting into a car crash. That would really be bad. So I’m mountain biking, but I’m not ripping black diamonds.

I’m driving, but I’m very careful.”

Being cautious, though, doesn’t mean being a couch potato, and what Kelly can do safely, he’s doing with his usual degree of energy and zest. Earlier this fall, when he had recovered enough to be able to run comfortably, he managed to trail run the 55-kilometre Rockwall route in Kootenay National Park. The Rockwall normally takes backpackers three or four days to complete: Kelly ran it in eight hours. The run was particularly poignant for him: “It was at that moment that I felt, yes, I’m back to my old self,” he said. “And, I have to admit, the Rockwall holds a special place in my heart. It was the very first long trail run I ever did, when I started trail running, and I’ve run it every year for the past five years. It’s become a tradition. With the injury, obviously I thought the tradition would be cancelled this year. But I squeezed it in, and that was really meaningful.”

A few weeks ago, in early November, Kelly had another appointment with his neurosurgeon and was told he was on track for a 100 per cent recovery. “They said I’ll be able to put this behind me. The X-rays looked perfect, the facet joints in the back with multiple fractures have fused, and now it’s just waiting for the vertebrae in the neck to fuse,” he said. “It was a major celebration for us.”

Continued on page 22...

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Winter Car Care

December December2,2,2021 2021

TheColumbia ColumbiaValley ValleyPioneer Pioneer• •1313 The

Adjust your driving during the winter season

By Camille Aubin camille@columbiavalleypioneer.com Winter driving is a challenge even for very skilled or very experienced drivers. It is essential to always be prepared and to be vigilant on the road. Before getting behind the wheel, you also need to make sure that the vehicle is equipped for the cold season and that it runs well.

By employing defensive driving techniques and adapting your driving style to changing conditions, you and others on the road will be safe.

The recent snow event on Highway 93 between Banff and Radium reminded us all that winter is here and that its changing conditions can surprise us at any time.

A portion of Highway 93 going south was closed at Highway 1 near Castle Junction due to a road obstruction on Sunday evening on Nov. 14. Many drivers and passengers were stuck in their cars for a few hours, while others spent the night in their vehicles with limited supplies and not much information about the ongoing road condition. That is why drivers must be ready at all times for any weather event.

Know the weather and the route well: In winter, there are many sources of information on weather conditions available to drivers on sites such www.DriveBC.ca or the local Columbia Valley & KNP Road Conditions

Facebook group. Prepare before departure, as conditions can change at any time.

Be careful on mountain roads: When travelling in the mountains, turns and changes in altitude make driving difficult. These elements all carry specific risks.

Choose a speed that you are comfortable with, and be especially careful on slippery roads combined with steep downhill slopes.

Learn winter driving techniques: Winter driving requires additional skills such as skid control and a smooth approach when turning, stopping and accelerating.

Learn to read the road: The shadows under bridges and near woods are potential indicators of ice on the road and increased risk of driving.

Slowing down: It is not necessarily the number of collisions that increase in winter, but rather their severity. Many drivers do not know how much they need to reduce their speed and tend to drive too fast in winter, which can lead to collisions. Remember that the posted speed limit is the one that uppermost one that applies in ideal climatic conditions. If you’re slogging through the snow instead of cruising on a beautiful summer day, you should not be driving the speed limit, let alone going faster than it.

Keep your distance from other vehicles: Be aware of the space on all four sides of the car. You should have a

clear view of what is going on in front of you, next to you and behind you. When possible, increase the distance between your vehicle and others. Do not use cruise control under challenging conditions.

Avoid distractions: Driving in winter conditions is tough already. Add in any form of distracted driving, and it might put you in danger. Stay focused on the road and the current conditions.

Bring the right tools: Prepare yourself before making any trip during the winter season. Carry a bag of kitty litter in your vehicle in case your tires need better grip, as well as a hammer and putty knife to remove any snow or ice that may accumulate. Keep fuel treatment and methanol in reserve for gas lines and air lines.

Prepare an emergency kit: Prepare for the worst. You should be able to spend a few hours or even a few days immobilized in freezing temperatures. Your kit should contain warm clothes, food, water, a reliable flashlight, a portable charger for cell phones, hand warmers, candles, and warm boots, among others.

Keeping these winter driving tips in mind will help keep you and others on the road safe. Since winter driving presents great dangers, it is crucial that those who get behind the wheel of a vehicle in the cold season are alert and careful on the road.

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14 • The Columbia Valley Pioneer 14 • The Columbia Valley Pioneer

Winter Car Care

December 2, 2021 December 2, 2021

Winter driving doubles risk of being in a crash

By Shift into Winter Winter driving can more than double your risk of being in a motor vehicle crash in B.C. To help reduce the risk, the Shift into Winter campaign launches province-wide to remind drivers to be prepared and plan ahead.

“Winter is Mother Nature’s ultimate road test,” says Louise Yako, spokesperson for the 13th annual campaign. “Winter conditions can change quickly and push our driving skills to the limit.”

Winter roads can be dangerous in B.C. due to rain, fog, snow, and ice. “Even the most experienced drivers are challenged by cold temperatures, slippery roads, and reduced visibility,” Yako says. “We want drivers to shift into winter by preparing for winter driving before winter weather hits. The time to do that is now.”

In B.C., the average number of casualty crashes due to driving too fast for the conditions more than doubles from fall to early winter – to about 220 in December from about 99 in September, according to statistics on crashes reported to police from 2015 to 2019.

The Alliance offers the following tips for drivers to help them stay safe on the road this winter: Prepare your vehicle by installing a set of four

matched winter tires with the 3-peaked mountain and snowflake symbol. “These tires offer the best traction on snow, ice, and in cold weather,” Yako notes.

Give your vehicle a pre-winter maintenance checkup every year Carry a winter driving emergency kit.

yourself plenty of room in situations where you may need to brake suddenly,” she says.

Prepare yourself by knowing how to drive for the conditions before you get behind the wheel. “You can’t predict how your vehicle, or another driver’s vehicle, will react in snow or on ice,” Yako says. Learn how to brake safely, get out of a skid, and become faPhoto by White Field Photo on Unsplash miliar with how your vehicle handles in winter weather. Think of it as building muscle memory: Your winter driving skills are rusty at the beginning of the season but you can commit them to memory by practicing them repeatedly as soon as wintry weather arrives.

Visit ShiftIntoWinter.ca for more free information and resources that can help reduce the risks when driving during winter.

Winter tires or chains are required on all vehicles on most designated highways in B.C. from October 1 to March 31.

For select highways, including mountain Check road conditions on DriveBC.ca before head- passes and rural routes in high snowfall areas, the date is ing out. “Is it safe for you to go?” Yako asks. If possible, extended until April 30 to account for early spring snowpostpone your plans and avoid driving when road and fall. These highways are marked with regulatory signs. weather conditions are poor.

Non-compliant drivers may be turned away and be Slow down to meet the road conditions. Keep at least subject to a fine. Drivers can find more information on 4 seconds between you and the vehicle in front. “Give DriveBC.ca.

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A message from the Automotive Industries Association of Canada Making your own choice of Automotive Service Professional for regular servicing and maintenance does not mean compromising your vehicle warranty.

Talk to your chosen Automotive Service Professional to ensure that the maintenance schedule for your vehicle is followed, and that warranty repairs are undertaken promptly by the appropriate repair facility.

You have a choice.

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In each province, there are Automotive Service Professionals who are qualified to service any vehicle make and model.

●

Your chosen Automotive Service Professional can service your vehicle for regular maintenance.

●

To maintain the integrity of your vehicle warranty, follow its terms and properly document the maintenance schedule outlined in your owner’s manual or your extended warranty coverage contract.

For example, particular attention should be made to ensure that manufacturer recommended fluids are used and accurately documented in your record of service.

V2.0

December 2, 2021

The Columbia Valley Pioneer • 15

Is your vehicle winter ready?

By CAA Winter isn’t kind to cars. Preparing your vehicle in advance will help you combat whatever winter throws your way.

Here are some tips to ensure you and your car are ready for the season.

Give your car a checkup Whether you do it yourself or you hire a professional, here is what may be included in a winter car checkup: Your battery. It works harder in cold temperatures, so a weak one is a liability. If it’s between three to five years old, chances are that it could fail. Check for signs of corrosion, wetness, or bulges in the casing. Battery tests are available with your CAA membership. Check with your local club for details.

Your ignition system. Check the condition of your ignition components, including spark plugs, wires, and distributor cap. Faulty components can make starting your car a game of chance, and can even cause a breakdown.

Your tires. Tire pressure goes down in cold weather. What was okay for fall could result in low tire pressure during the winter. Check your tire pressure regularly. Remember to check your spare, too.

Your lights. Make sure all your interior and exterior lights are working. For safe driving, ensure your headlights are aimed correctly.

Your brakes. If you’ve noticed any change in the feel of your brakes, or if they’re squealing or grinding, it may be time to have them serviced. With black ice and unpredictable weather, having good brakes can mean the difference between stopping and sliding.

Your windshield wipers. Did you know that the average wiper blade lasts only six months? Check the condition of your blades if you notice streaking on the

windshield. Some drivers prefer wipers designed specifically for winter driving.

Your fluids. The fluids in your car help things run smoothly. If it’s been around six months since your last oil change, it’s a good idea to get it done before winter.

Make sure your engine coolant meets the requirements of your area’s cold temperatures. Replace the coolant if it’s been more than two years since the last flush.

Be prepared Now that you’ve made sure your car is ready for the winter season, here are some additional items to keep in mind: Consider winter tires. Even if it’s not mandatory in your province, winter tires provide extra safety. Winter tires bring many benefits, like the fact that their rubber remains flexible in cold temperatures, unlike all-seasons, which lose elasticity below 7ºC. Pre-heat your engine. If the temperature in your area drops below -15ºC, consider using a block heater to reduce engine stress.

Keep your wiper fluid full. Keep extra fluid in your trunk. Make sure it’s rated for -40ºC. Prevent your gas line from freezing.

Keeping your tank at least half full reduces the build-up of condensation, which can freeze and stop fuel from reaching your engine.

Combat rust. There are several ways to avoid rust: frequent car washes that include an undercarriage wash; rustproofing; and applying a layer of polymer or carnauba over paint and trim.

Prepare for the unexpected. Emergency car kits can help you out of a bind.

Some items you should pack include: gloves, hats, a blanket, a first aid kit, booster cables, a small shovel and a flashlight.

We can towalm anything! ost Give us a call!

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Staff have the knowledge and experience to do it right and keep you safe on the road, and you will always be served efficiently, courteously and with integrity.

A massive inventory can be accessed online 24 hours a day every day of the year. K•5 Mechanical can draw from this inventory to get you the right product, at the right price and the right time.

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16 • The Columbia Valley Pioneer

December 2, 2021 Photo by Guillaume Bourdages on Unsplash

RDEK urges proactive measures as heavy rain conditions continue

By Haley Grinder Local Journalism Initiative Reporter The Regional District of East Kootenay (RDEK) is urging proactive measures among residents as the B.C. River Forecast Centre issues a High-Streamflow Advisory for the East Kootenay region.

“With the forecast calling for a series of rain events over the next few days, it is critical that residents be aware and prepared,” says Information Officer for the RDEK, Loree Duczek, in a press release.

“From staying away from local creeks and waterways to making sure you are registered for the Regional Evacuation Notification System, sandbagging if you live in flood-prone areas, and having a grab and go kit and emergency plan ready, there are several things we can do to be proactive in the event we experience localized flooding as a result of the forecasted rain.”

Affected citizens are encouraged to utilize any of the three self-fill sandbag stations set up by the RDEK— in Hosmer, Fernie, and Cranbrook. They are instruct-

ed to bring their own shovels and gloves.

The current weather changes, in particular the warmer temperatures and ground saturation, are causing increasingly unstable and erratic conditions around flowing water bodies. Duczek stresses residents in the area to, “please stay well back from all creeks and rivers as banks can be potentially unstable and conditions can change quickly with little to no warning.”

There is a Regional Evacuation Notification System in operation to help keep residents aware of critical event alerts related to natural disasters or hazardous material incidents. Duczek says the service is both free and anonymous for those in the area. “It’s available to everyone in the East Kootenay, including municipalities, rural areas and First Nations. The notification system is one of the most powerful tools we have to help us get the word out as quickly as possible to affected areas when time is of the essence.”

For those interested in signing up or learning more, visit the Emergency Information page at www.rdek.bc.ca.

HIRE YOUTH WITH JOB FUNDING AND TRAINING SUPPORT Work for a greener future Apply at ECO.CA

December 2, 2021

The Columbia Valley Pioneer • 17

Bills to uphold Indigenous rights given royal assent

By Haley Grinder Local Journalism Initiative Reporter Bills 18 and 29 celebrated receiving official royal assent on Thursday, Nov. 25. Previously introduced on Nov. 17, the bills added Indigenous identity as a protected ground under the B.C. Human Rights Code. This was the province’s next steps in advancing Indigenous human rights and reconciliation for the trauma they endured through residential school.

“Through Bill 29, we have also added a non-derogation clause to the Interpretation Act. This clause makes it clear that provincial laws uphold, and do not diminish, the rights of Indigenous Peoples as outlined under Section 35 of the Constitution Act, 1982,” says David Eby, Attorney General, and Murray Rankin, Minister of Indigenous Relations and Reconciliation in a provincial press

release. “Bill 29 also requires that the UN Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples be used to assist in resolving disputes over the meaning of B.C.’s acts and regulations.”

Eby and Rankin also addressed the longstanding systemic racism that Indigenous peoples endure. Despite the recent advances in reconciling these past horrors, there is still a long way to go.

“In the Declaration Act – which passed unanimously in the B.C. legislature two years ago tomorrow – we outlined the importance of includPhoto by chris robert on Unsplash ing Indigenous Peoples meaningfully in our work to ensure provincial laws are consistent with the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples,” they add. “That commitment was at the forefront as we developed these bills.”

In Canada 545,000 tonnes of waste is generated from gift-wrapping and shopping bags each year.* This holiday season, think outside the wrap. Give gifts in re-usable bags, wrap them up in fabric or create wrapping paper out of children’s art. Tie them up with nice ribbons that can be used again next year. The possiblities are endless, make a tradition out of your wrapping style.

Together let’s reduce, reuse, recycle & rejoice this holiday season. *Soure: www.zerowastecanada.ca

RDEK Representatives INVERMERE PUBLIC LIBRARY BOARD Are you a book lover?

Do you enjoy volunteering?

Do you believe in public libraries?

If you answered YES to any of these questions, we might have an exciting opportunity waiting for you!

The Regional District of East Kootenay (RDEK) is looking for four people to represent the RDEK as Trustees on the Invermere Public Library Board as follows: • two people to represent Electoral Area F; • one person to represent Electoral Area G; and, • one person to represent the Village of Canal Flats.

To be considered for a position, an applicant must be a resident or elector of the above area(s) and cannot be a director of the RDEK Board, a councillor of the Village of Canal Flats, or an employee of the RDEK, Village of Canal Flats or the Invermere Public Library Board. These volunteer positions are for a two year term to run from January 1, 2022 to December 31, 2023.

If you are interested, please submit a letter of application and brief resume including reasons for your interest and related experience to , at the RDEK. VIA EMAIL in PDF format to thlushak@rdek.bc.ca; or BY MAIL OR DROP OFF For information on the Library and the services it provides, please visit http://invermere.bc.libraries.coop Applications must be received by 4:30pm on Friday, December 17.

REQUEST FOR PROPOSAL Wood Grinding Project 2022

The RDEK is seeking Request for Proposals for Wood Grinding at the Central Subregion Landfill and the Columbia Valley Landfill.

The Request for Proposal Documents are posted on BC Bid. Closing Thursday 2:00PM MST on January 6, 2022.

Jim Penson, Solid Waste Superintendent Environmental Services – Regional District of East Kootenay

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

18 • The Columbia Valley Pioneer

December 2, 2021

HERE TO SERVE YOU SERVICES

SERVICES

SERVICE EXCELLENCE

North American Warranty

IN THE COLUMBIA VALLEY

SINCE 1991

All Makes and Models

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

141 Industrial Rd. 2 • 250-342-9424 • Open Monday - Friday, 8:30 am - 5:30 pm Sales ~ Service ~ Installation

Arnold Scheffer 250-342-6700

unidoorext@live.ca • unidoorext.ca

Industrial ~ Commercial ~ Residential

CLEANING & MAINTENANCE ON ALL WOOD BURNING APPLIANCES • WETT INSPECTIONS

(Servicing the Valley since 1999)

NEW SEWER CAMERA

• • •

• Septic Tank Pumping • Portable Toilet Rentals

• Complete sewer/drain repairs Reasonable rates – Seniors’ discount • Speedy service – 7 days a week

A well maintained septic system should be pumped every 2-3 years Avoid costly repairs

Fraser Elrick • 250-688-1271 INSURANCE

• • • •

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

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

www.kootenayinsurance.ca

PROVIDING SOLUTIONS FOR THE VACATION HOME OWNER SINCE 2006

KITCHEN CABINETS & COUNTER TOPS

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

Scott Postlethwaite

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

Free Estimates

invermereelectric@gmail.com

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

Ph: 250-688-ROLL (7655) LetUsRoll4U@Gmail.com

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

20 years experience • Satisfaction guaranteed!

LAMBERT-KIPP

CONCRETE

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

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

1301 - 7th Avenue, Invermere

250-342-6612

INSURANCE

INSURANCE AGENCIES LTD.

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

Bob: (250) 341-5014

WINDOW COVERINGS SHOWROOM

Beat the fall rush ~ clean your Chimney this spring!

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

valleysolutions@shaw.ca

House Checking and more!

Tire Sales and Installation

We give all students 15% off with valid student ID

UNIVERSAL DOORS & EXTERIORS

Judy: (250) 341-1903

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

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

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

N E W S PA P E R

December 2, 2021

The Columbia Valley Pioneer • 19

Campaign to combat gender-based violence Day (Dec. 10).

“Far too many women in Canada live in fear every Métis Nation B.C. (MNBC) addresses the extensive levels of violence towards women and girls day. For Indigenous by introducing an innovative campaign: 16 Days women, racialized women, trans womof Activism Against Gender-Based Violence. The international campaign is being led by the Uniten, women with disabilities, and ed Nations Secretary-General and United Nations Women, with their collaboration with the MNBC non-binary people, that violence is even officially announced on Thursday, Nov. 25.

The annual campaign began in 2008 in the common,” Photo by Nadine Shaabana on Unsplash more hopes of creating opportunities to speak out on says Dr. Kate Elthe challenges that women and girls face, along with liott, MNBC Minister of Women and Gender Equity, in solutions for future acknowledgement. The 16-day-long a press release. “The safety of our sacred Métis women, campaign occurs between the International Day to End girls, and gender-diverse people is crucial to our Nation.

Violence Against Women (Nov. 25) and Human Rights I encourage Métis people and allies alike to thinking

By Haley Grinder Local Journalism Initiative Reporter

about concrete steps they can take to end gender-based violence.”

MNBC’s collaboration will bring with it highlights from their “Thanks for Listening Report,” which is the first piece of written documentation about Métis women’s experiences of violence and survival in the province of B.C. The report was launched on Oct. 4 as part of the MNBC’s “Sashing Our Warriors” campaign, which outlines survey results from 407 survey responses and two focus groups with Métis women and girls themselves.

Region 4 Women’s Representative, Jana Schulz says in the press release. “I believe that every part of our society, from governments, to organizations, to institutions, to individuals, must be accountable and commit to substantive actions that end all forms of gender- and race-based violence against Indigenous women, girls, and 2SLGBTQQIA+ people.”

HERE TO SERVE YOU CONCRETE

CARPET CLEANING

• 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

TILE AND GROUT CLEANING Business: 250-342-9692

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

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

ptarmiganrugclean@gmail.com

Enjoy life, we’ll clean it up!

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

• 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

Proudly Serving the Valley for over 50 years

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

Visit www.heavensbest.com for more information

CONTRACTING

Gary’s

Seniors Discounts

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

A licensed, registered and bonded company

We also offer roundthe-clock service calls.

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

Where to recycle?

Dale Elliott Contracting

• Trusses • Engineered Floors • Wall Panels

dale@decontracting.ca • 250-341-7098

Tel: 250.341.6075 Check the BC RECYCLEpEdia 1320 Industrial Road #3 Fax: 250.341.3427 www.rcbc.ca Box 159, Invermere, B.C. Email: info@duskbuildingsystems.com V0A 1K0 www.duskbuildingsystems.com Recycling council of B.c. MeMBeR

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

250-688-0213

INTERIOR • EXTERIOR • WALL COVERINGS Specializing in all heating, electric, gas and wood.

kekulibaycabinetry.com

• Authorized dealer • Designer • Installer

Call NOW:

CONTRACTING

Kekuli Bay Cabinetry

Cell: 250-342-1273

Professional Painting & Decorating Ltd. 1978 FREE Estimates

Local Resident

CUSTOM WOOD FINISHING FAUX FINISHES JOURNEYMAN RED SEAL

403-650-4622 • garysptg@gmail.com

Where to recycle?

Check the BC RECYCLEpEdia 604-RECYCLE (732-9253) 1-800-667-4321 Recycling council of B.c. MeMBeR

C

20 • The Columbia Valley Pioneer

December 2, 2021

P ioneer C lassifieds 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 250342-2424 for more information or to speak with someone from our fellowship.

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

CHEERS WITHOUT TEARS

CHEERS WITHOUT TEARS

CHEERS WITHOUT TEARS

Cheers to Rick- formerly of Lake Windermere Pointe. We sure do miss you. It’s just not the same without you.

Cheers to the Rotary Club for bringing baskets of goodies to the people working at the hospital and for realizing that there are many different types of support workers who often get missed with these gestures! Your kindness is appreciated.

Cheers to Judy Weaver for your kindness, positive attitude and encouragement. It means a lot.

Cheers to Shannon from Shannon’s Blinds. You made the experience of choosing window coverings a pleasure. We are very happy with the quality and warranty provided. Having them ordered and installed within 3 weeks was amazing.

Cheers to the fairy godmother that helped my son purchase a beautiful birthday gift for me from Black Star. How lovely to be gifted with such generosity what a beautiful example of kindness.

S OBITUARY S Elizabeth “Betty” Mary Eacrett November 4, 1923 – November 23, 2021

Betty passed peacefully at the age of 98, at Ivy House in Invermere, B.C. with her loving family at her side.

Betty was born on November 4, 1923, in Saskatoon to Thomas and Anna Magill. She eventually moved to Mission, B.C. where she met and married George. After one year in Bella Coola, B.C., where their first child was born, they returned to Mission in 1946 where they lived until they moved to Invermere, B.C. in 1962 where they raised their seven children.

Betty enjoyed an independent and active golden years. She loved her many years volunteering at the Thrift Shop and the Food Bank and was recognized by the Invermere Health Care Auxiliary Society for 50 years of membership. She was also a very active participant in life at Columbia Village Gardens where she resided for the past 15 plus years.

Betty’s family and many friends, both young and old, will miss her love and friendship and her wry sense of humour.

Betty is survived by her children Linda-Anne Lambert (Bob), Bart (Cheryl), Warren (Terri), Paul (Diana), Keith (Julie), Brenda Semeniuk (Wes), grandchildren Erin (Matt), Ryan (Denise), Blair, Jorja, Nicole, Zak and Jake, great-grandchildren Myan, River and Aira.

She was predeceased by her husband George (1991) and son Ronald (1987).

A Celebration of Life will be held in the spring/summer.

In lieu of flowers donations may be made to the Invermere Health Care Auxiliary Society.

Arrangements entrusted to McPherson Funeral Services.

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

Big CHEERS to Vic and Doug of the Windermere Rod and Gun Club. They provided a super fun afternoon of clay pigeon shooting for our team - we had a blast! Cheers Vic and Doug for a great set up and for sharing your expertise and passion with us.

A big cheer to the road maintenance crew on Highway 93. We were not part of the mess on Nov 14th and 15th but watched all the reports about it. We came through a few days later and Parks Canada were busy cleaning up the remaining rough spots. We have traveled this highway for decades and have noticed the care that this crew does on this highway. Your diligence to make this highway safe does not go unnoticed Cheers to Sally at ReStyling Hemming and Alterations. Great job hemming my jeans!

Cheers to Dave Dixon for coming to the rescue of two seniors on Friday evening. The world would be a better place to live if more people showed kindness to others. You are an outstanding person in our community.

Cheers to Whiskey Ridge Contracting. Jackie is an excellent skilled carpenter who completed our small Reno with excellence. Great Job!

LISTINGS NEEDED! I WANT TO SELL YOUR HOUSE!

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

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

BUYING OR SELLING CALL 250-341-1202

gerrytaft.ca Personal Real Estate Corporation

Cheers to the organizers of HOLLY JOLLY HOLIDAY MARKET! It was two days of talented people showing their wares and people supporting locals no Amazon here. LOL! It felt like something everyone needed two days of mingling safely with Christmas thoughts in their head!! Cheers to Theresa Wood and Cortney Pitts for taking this challenge!

You guys rocked it! Can’t wait till 2022!

Cheers to Mr. Tyler Nichols / Nickle not sure on the spelling.

He rescued me on one of the off roads on the westside road.

He risked his own personal safety to help me. He was a true gentleman and I won’t soon forget his generosity !

Rockies West Realty Independently owned and operated

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

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

WANTED

SERVICES

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

Last Minute Christmas Sale Buy One & 75% off the 2nd blind Expires: Dec 25th “Buy a Gift Certificate & receive a free option” Customized Window Blinds & Phantom Screens Shannon’s Blinds & Designs 250-342-5749

VEHICLES FOR SALE For Sale 2012 Ford Focus 134,010 kms 8 tires, summer and winter, $5,500.

Call 250-342-3946.

SERVICES B.B.’s Home & Design Services Master Craftsman & Stonemason, Renovation’s, Blinds & installation. Home interior/exterior repairs , dump runs, house checks/cleaning.

Book now for snow removal.

Over 35 year’s experience.

Call 250-688-2897.

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

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 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.

Residential Framers/Carpenters House framers, carpenters and experienced labourers required.

Send resume by email to jfersterhomes@gmail.com Ski & Snow Board Technician Fairmont Rental and Repair, located at the base of Fairmont Hot Springs Ski area. Minutes away from town site. Experience preferred. Lone Harding 250342-5386 Text or call accepted.

Dreamin’ of Summer?

4392 Coy Road

$1,999,900 Rare Private Access To The Lake And Foreshore MLS®#: 2460410

Check out the 3D tour at Rockies.realestate

Geoff Hill PREC* REALTOR® Fair Realty

250-341-7600

www.geoffhill.ca

Just a reminder… The classified deadline is 12 noon Friday.

December 2, 2021

The Columbia Valley Pioneer • 21

Print and Digital Reporter/Photographer

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

The Times-Chronicle is looking for a full-time Print and Digital Reporter/Photographer for our news operation. The successful candidate will split their time between the Oliver and Osoyoos offices. We operate a daily news site and a weekly print publication.

MANUFACTURING LTD.

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

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

Valid driver’s license and reliable vehicle.

Positive attitude, must be organized and able to work both independently and in a team setting.

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

Interested candidates should forward their resume to: rdoull@aberdeenpublishing.com The company offers competitive benefit and pension plans.

Applications must be received by December 15, 2021 at 5:00 PM Pacific Time.

Print and Digital Editor The Columbia Valley Pioneer is looking for a full-time Print and Digital Editor for our news operation based in Invermere. We operate a daily news site - columbiavalleypioneer.com, and a weekly community newspaper serving ten communities in the Upper Columbia Valley. We also publish various speciality magazines produced on an annual basis.

The successful candidate must work well in a team setting, but is self-motivated. At present we have a staff of three in the newsroom plus various contributors. The magazines are typically produced by freelance contractors, but the magazine work has been significantly curtailed by the COVID-19 situation.

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

• Valid driver’s license and reliable vehicle.

• Ability to organize work and give direction to others in order to meet deadlines.

• Ability to work collaboratively with the other members of the management team.

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

Where to recycle?

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

N E W S PA P E R

DISTRICT OF INVERMERE

EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY Clerk 1 (Reception-Cashier) Permanent The District of Invermere has an opening for a Clerk 1 (ReceptionCashier) in its Administration and Finance Department.

Reporting to the Chief Administrative Officer, the Clerk 1 performs a variety of routine and non-routine clerical tasks, word processing, spread sheeting, record keeping, cashiering, facility booking, photocopying, and other duties as assigned. The Clerk 1 possesses a sound knowledge of specific department procedures and municipal bylaws and regulations.

Under supervision, the Clerk 1 is required to exercise some independent judgment and action within the limits of departmental systems and procedures. The Clerk 1 must deal courteously and effectively with the public and municipal clients. Performance will be reviewed for completeness and accuracy of work undertaken and assigned, as well as adherence with the District’s procedural guidelines.

The preferred candidate for this position will have completed a business college or secretarial program with extensive computer training. Municipal work experience would be an asset. Applicants interested in applying for this position must possess the following skills and abilities: • Completion of Grade 12 (Senior Secondary School Graduation); • Completion of a minimum of a six (6) month office administration training program; • Proficient word processing skills and a minimum net keyboarding speed of 50 to 80 words per minute; • Working knowledge of and experience using standardized business letter formats in English, as well as record management systems; and • Knowledge and proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite (i.e., Word, Outlook, Excel, Power Point, and Access) as well as Adobe software.

The selected candidate will be expected to: • Maintain accurate, dependable, high-quality work; • Communicate effectively (i.e., orally and in writing); • Possess good organizational skills; • Possess excellent interpersonal skills; and • Maintain harmonious relationships with the public and staff.

This position is within C.U.P.E. 2982 bargaining unit. The current wage rate for this position falls within the range of $30.21 - $31.08 per hour plus benefits as detailed in the Collective Agreement. The Clerk 1 is expected to work 35 hours per week Monday to Friday from 8:30 am to 4:30 pm.

Where to A job description for this position is available but is currently under recycle? review.

LVL Manufacturing Labourer Position Brisco Manufacturing Ltd., a privately held Canadian Company specializing in producing High-Quality Certified engineered beams and other products from Laminated Veneer Lumber, is seeking to hire a Manufacturing Labourer for our plant in Brisco, BC. Our facility is located just north of Radium Hot Springs in the beautiful Columbia Valley in British Columbia.

General Summary: The Manufacturing Labourer is required to learn various tasks including assisting with Loading and unloading the Press using cranes, finishing and packaging, counting inventory as well as general cleanup and other duties as required.

Key Responsibilities: • Perform tasks efficiently focusing on Safety, Quality and Production while meeting deadlines.

• Using a variety of equipment such as hydraulic press, planer, glue machine, cranes and hand tools.

• Fill out paperwork accurately.

• Work effectively together with assigned crew.

• Following established procedures to safely produce high quality results.

Qualifications: • Experience in manufacturing or equipment operation an asset. Willing to train the right candidate.

• Safety Oriented • Ability to follow direction and work together with others to complete assigned tasks.

• Ability to use simple mathematics.

• Physically fit, Team player, able to work from heights.

• Self-reliant, organized, motivated and quality oriented.

• Vaccination for COVID-19 required..

This is a full-time position, which offers a competitive wage and a comprehensive benefits package.

We wish to thank all applicants for their interest, however, only those selected for interviews will be contacted.

Please address cover letter and resume to Kevin Olson –Plant Supervisor and e-mail pdf file to: epetersen@briscowood.com or Fax to 250-346-3218 Deadline for application is 5 pm (MST) Tuesday, November 30, 2021.

PRODUCTION YARD LABOURER POSITION Brisco Wood Preservers Ltd., is a major Canadian Pole Producer of CCA treated wood poles suppling Western utilities and communications companies.

Our main treating facility is located in Brisco BC, just north of Radium Hot Springs in the beautiful Columbia Valley. Brisco Wood Preservers’ second treating facility is located in Peers, Alberta. In addition, we manufacture large engineered beams from LVL (Laminated Veneer Lumber) in our laminating plant located in Brisco, BC Position Overview: Reporting to the Operations Supervisor, the Production Labourer is required to learn various tasks including pole production, plywood production, counting inventory as well as general cleanup and other duties as required. Located at plant in Brisco, BC..

Can this be recycled?

Key Responsibilities:

• Perform tasks efficiently focusing on Safety, Quality and Production while meeting The company offers competitive benefit and Persons interested in applying for this position are invited to submit deadlines. pension plans. The position is based in our office • Working on the production skids, measuring, checking for defects, bucking to length. their resumes by 4:30 pm on Monday, December 20th, 2021 to:the BC RECYCLEpEdia Check at 1008, 8th Ave Invermere, B.C. The position is the BC RECYC • Working on the plywood line stickering and destickering lifts of Check plywood.

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We thank all applicants for their interest; however, only those considered for an interview will be contacted.

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Qualifications: • Experience in Lumber mill production or manufacturing an asset. Willing to train the right candidate.

• Experience using chainsaw and other hand tools.

• Ability to follow direction and work together with others to complete assigned tasks.

• Ability to use simple mathematics.

• Self-reliant, organized, motivated and quality oriented.

• Physically fit • Vaccination for COVID-19 required.

• Experience in Forestry an asset.

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Get the BC ReCYClepedia app

This is a full-time year-round position, which offers a competitive wage.

We wish to thank all applicants for their interest, however, only those selected for interviews will be contacted.

How to apply: Please address cover letter and resume to Kevin Olson – Operations Supervisor and e-mail pdf file to: epetersen@briscowood.com or fax to 250-346-3218.

www.rcbc.ca

Deadline Recycling for application iscouncil 5 pm (MST)of Friday, December 10th, 2021.

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

22 • The Columbia Valley Pioneer

December 2, 2021

Innovative youth project combats climate change

By Haley Grinder Local Journalism Initiative Reporter Wildsight’s Youth Climate Corps (YCC) program has partnered with Kalesnikoff and the Slocan Integral Forestry Cooperative (SIFCo) to develop their latest ‘Bannock in Bloom’ project, which aims to combat the effects of climate change while promoting a healthy environment in the future.

The project was developed after a summer of extreme wildfires in the province of B.C. With the Kootenays largely consisting of forests, climate change poses a huge threat to the livelihood of residents in the years to come.

However, the ‘Bannock in Bloom’ project has a unique model to combat these climate projections: agroforestry. Agroforestry is a land management strategy that intentionally integrates farming and agriculture with the growing of trees. Their project’s current plan is to plant salmonberries and walnut trees in parts of the forest that have been thinned to

reduce the risk of wildfire. Work began earlier this month at Bannock Point.

“By selecting our species carefully, reducing emissions from wildfires, and using excess biomass to enhance soil health and carbon storage, these kinds of sites can support our climate change mitigation efforts,” says Gerald Cordeiro, Forest Development Manager for Kalesnikoff in Wildsight’s press release. “We believe this is a scalable model that can have a measurable positive impact on our communities.” He adds that this “holds immense promise” for balancing carbon levels within the Columbia Basin.

Wildsight’s YCC will be transforming the two-hectare site while receiving training and support from permaculture experts in the fields, including Gregoire Lamoureux, creator of the Kootenay Permaculture Institute and longtime Slocan Valley resident.

Continued ‘mountain biker’ from page 12...

Parks Canada is looking to hire youth!

The Youth Employment and Skills Strategy (YESS) is a Federal Government jobs initiative targeted at young Canadians aged 15 to 30. It supports the creation of job opportunities, with a particular focus on young people facing barriers.

Parks Canada is excited to announce the following opportunities: Radium Hot Pools - High school student position Currently seeking two students to join the Radium Hot Pools team on weekends until the end of March 2022. Each student would be expected to work one day per week. Duties will include assisting with front of house tasks in this fast-paced environment.

Resource Conservation - High school student position Currently seeking one student to work with the Resource Conservation team on Saturdays until the end of March 2022. Duties will include office-based and field work in Kootenay National Park and the Radium area.

High School Student Rate of Pay: $15.20 per hour.

Who can apply? To be eligible, you must be: • Between 15 and 30 years old.

• Canadian citizen, permanent resident or legally entitled to work in Canada.

Why apply? Working with Parks Canada will allow you to: • Gain paid-work experience in a friendly workplace where diversity and inclusion are valued.

• Build your employment history and acquire skills, whether you are starting or advancing your career!

• Expand your network, learn how we work to serve Canadians in many ways across Canada.

• Make a difference and provide hands-on support to our organization, as guardians of national parks, national historic sites and national marine conservation areas of Canada How to Apply?

High school students interested in being considered, that meet the eligibility criteria above, are encouraged to submit their resume and a cover letter to: • rhllyk-llykhr@pc.gc.ca • Subject line should include: YESS, the student’s last name, and desired position.

• DEADLINE for APPLICATIONS: Thursday, December 23, 2021

love a good photo submission.

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

That night in Thailand The time spent recovering has given Kelly a chance to pause, and reflect. “If you go through an injury like this, you feel lucky. Lucky to be alive. Lucky to be moving. You have a new appreciation for everything,” he told the Pioneer, adding that the bike accident was, in fact, his second close call in life.

The first such close call came in Thailand, on Boxing Day 2004. Kelly and Abby (then his girlfriend) were backpacking through Southeast Asia, and had just landed on the famous vacation island of Phuket. They arrived by ferry in the morning, dropped their luggage in their hotel, which was set on a hill above the iconic west-facing Kata and Kata Noi beaches, then turned to go back to the shore, eager to sign up for a snorkelling tour. Walking downhill “we heard a massive rumble. We thought it must be a car accident, so we looked down the road. But, suddenly, there was no road. Just water. Powerful, churning water coming in rapidly.”

It was the devastating 2004 Indian Ocean tsunami, one of the deadliest natural disasters on record, although Abby and Kelly didn’t know that at the time. All they knew was something horrific was unfolding. They turned and fled uphill back to their hotel, as more and more water surged onto the beach and town below them. Had they been just a few minutes earlier, they would have been caught directly in it. The tsunami came in multiple waves, leaving much of the western coast of Phuket in a jumble of destruction and chaos. Kelly and Abby spent that night huddled with dozens of other local and tourist survivors in the hotel lobby. They sat in the pitch dark, with power and communication to the outside world cut off.

“It was terrifying. A lot of people were crying. Some had lost loved ones. Nobody was really sure what was

going on...it was a long night. It really made me think, deeply, in a way I hadn’t before. There were literally hundreds of people killed all around us. I think 5,000 people died on the beaches that day, and more than 227,000 died around the world,” Kelly told the Pioneer. “That night, it changed the whole way I look at life. Every day since then has been a gift. And I promised myself I’d make the most of that gift.”

This, Kelly says, is where his boundless exuberance for life, his irrepressibly positive nature, comes from. (The Pioneer can attest, based on multiple in-person interactions, that Kelly is likely the most ebulliently cheerful person in the Columbia Valley). That night in Phuket, he was given a second chance at life. And earlier this year, above Kokanee Creek, he was given another second chance.

And this time, starting secondchance-at-life number two, he made himself another promise. “Lying there in the hospital bed in Kelowna, trying not to focus too much on whether or not I would walk or ride again, I thought really hard about everybody — all the medical personnel and others — who had helped me through the ordeal.

They had been fantastic,” Kelly told the Pioneer. “And vowed that I would pay it forward, somehow. That I would help other people who are in a similar situation as I was right then.”

As a first step in that direction, he’s now training to become part of the local Invermere chapter of the nonprofit Cycling Without Age, which takes the elderly and others with mobility challenges for free bike rides in specially designed, trishaw-like bikes.

“I want to give back, and make a difference for those who can use a hand.

If I can help somebody else feel the wind in their hair on a bike, help make their days a bit brighter, then sign me up,” said Kelly. “People keep telling me I’ve got all this positive energy, well, I’m going to spend it. This world needs it.”

December 2, 2021

The Columbia Valley Pioneer • 23

BEY

ND

THE BLUE LINE Submitted by Mark Teterenko Before their weekend matchups against Fernie and Golden this past week, the Rockies held a “Christmas Shopping with the Rockies” event where children under the age of 12 had the opportunity to do some Christmas shopping in town with Rockies players. After purchasing all of the gifts they had on their lists, the children went with the players to the arena so that they could carefully wrap all of the gifts they had just purchased. Now our Rockies faithful will have beautifully wrapped gifts waiting under their trees for their loved ones until Christmas morning!

The Rockies completed week nine splitting their two games with a 1-1 record. They hosted the Fernie Ghostriders on Friday, Nov. 26, and just couldn’t put one past the Fernie goaltender Dylan Lacroix. Saturday brought the 0.500 Golden Rockets to town, where the Rockies won by a final score of 4-1.

Additionally, on Saturday, Nov. 27, Copper Point Golf President & GM Brian Schaal presented the team with a cheque totaling $2,180.00 from the annual Columbia Valley Rockies Golf Tournament that took place back in September of 2021.

We’d like to give a huge thank you to Copper Point Golf for their continued support of the Columbia Valley Rockies hockey program.

This week, the Rockies face Kimberley away on Tuesday night and follow that up with a Friday game at home versus Creston before hitting the road on Saturday to take on Fernie.

We are back “in-person” at Christ Church Trinity Services start at 10:30am. Attendees must have received dual vaccinations and wear a mask. Or, you can join us online using zoom. To receive a link please call 250-342-6644 or email office@wvsm.ca Invermere – 110 7th Ave.

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 “It is a very apparent trend. We’re not sure what’s driving it, whether more longtime residents have decided to get pets as companions during the (COVID-19) pandemic, or whether it’s that a lot more people have decided to move to the Columbia Valley during the pandemic because they can work remotely, and they’re bringing their dogs with them, or whether it’s some other factor. Whatever it is, there are a lot more dogs in the valley, it seems,” said Kebe. “There’s nothing wrong with having dogs. They’re great. But please keep your dog on-leash in places where you are supposed to.

It is having an effect on the sheep.”

Not long after the fall run started, on Saturday, Nov. 20, Kebe and other Radium wildlife enthusiasts conducted a bighorn count, tallying 110 sheep around the village. The number was a bit low — the Radium herd is estimated at 140 to 150 sheep — but Kebe said that counters likely missed a good many sheep as the bighorns were quite spread out that day.

“It was a good count even though we missed some. There are some days you do the count, and you see them all, because they are all together. And there are other times you only get three quarters of them because they are scattered,” he said. “This was one of the times the sheep are spread out. They were up by the hot springs, in north Radium, on the Radium hill, at the golf course, by the river, everywhere.”

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

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

Relief Society, 11:15 a.m.

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

h e Pioneer ca T n

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Of the dog-bighorn conflicts, Kebe outlined that there has been a “huge change” in Radium over the past year in the number of people taking their dogs to open spaces (such as golf courses) that are not official off-leash dog parks and letting their dogs run off-leash regardless.

“Obviously this is absolutely disruptive to the sheep, during what for the sheep is a sensitive time,” said Kebe, adding there have so far been two “touch” conflicts between dogs and bighorns — one ‘stomping’ and one ‘horning’ — and several incidences of sheep chasing dogs.

“People need to realize that sheep are wild animals, and you need to give them a wide berth. That includes dogs. Please keep dogs on leash at all times, unless you are in a designated off-leash dog park. We do have an excellent off-leash dog-park in Radium, at Sinclair Creek, and one of the reasons that spot was chosen as an off-leash park was because the bighorns don’t often go there,” said Kebe.

Through conversations with the valley’s WildSafe coordinators and local conservation officers, Kebe has learned that there’s been a dramatic increase in the number of dog-wildlife incidences not just in Radium but also in Fairmont Hot Springs, Columere Park and Invermere.

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

Submitted photos by Mark Teterenko Continued ‘drive slow’ from page 5

LAKE WINDERMERE ALLIANCE CHURCH

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

www.columbiavalleypioneer.com

24 • The Columbia Valley Pioneer

December 2, 2021

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