CV Pioneer January 13

January 13, 2022 Vol. 19/Issue 2

The Columbia Valley Pioneer • 1

Your Weekly Source for News and Events

January 13, 2022

The Columbia Valley

P IONEER

FREE

PERSONAL REAL ESTATE CORPORATION

250•341•6044 | 250•341•1395

Realty Invermere

Serving the Upper Columbia Valley including Akisq’nuk and Shuswap First Nations, Spillimacheen, Brisco, Edgewater, Radium, Invermere, Windermere, Fairmont and Canal Flats

Geoff Hill PREC* REALTOR® Fair Realty

250-341-7600

www.Rockies.RealEstate Selling and Buying Real Estate Since 2008

COVID-19

03 COUNCIL

THE GREAT ESKAIP

07 BOBCATS

Edmonton construction engineer and regular Columbia Valley visitor, Nicole Palladino, recently was the first person to rent the RAD Society’s adaptive Eskaip cross country ski. Palladino enjoyed it so much, she proceeded to rent the Eskaip three times in four days. For more on this story, see page 5.

10

Submitted photo

Your listing on the front page with... SEAN & PAUL 4966 MOUNTAIN SIDE PLACE

#9 5054 RIVERVIEW ROAD

MLS: 2462495

$284,900

EW

LD

Connecting exceptional people with exceptional properties for 15+ Years - Thank you!

WWW.ROGGEMAN.CA N

SO

MLS: 2462216

$590,000

ROGGEMAN

Personal Real Estate Corporations

Connect with us :

Sean@rockieswest.com www.roggeman.ca

250-341-5445

CONGRATULATIONS to our clients who have sold their lovely home faster than expected at a purchase price of $590,000.

To explore the sale of your home in 2022 or for a free market value estimate, contact us at sean@rockieswest.com.

Rockies West Realty

Independently owned and operated

Breathtaking 2 bed, 2 bath condo overlooking the Rocky Mountains and the Riverside Golf Course. Top floor corner unit that has been immaculately cared for. Bright open spaces and an A+ location. Fully Furnished. Act fast.

250-341-5300

2 • The Columbia Valley Pioneer

Bruno’s Plumbing Service Mike Sylvestre 250.342.5105 brunosplumbing@shaw.ca

January 13, 2022

VALLEY VIEWS

~ We now service drains ~ Serving The Columbia Valley

UPDATED LIBRARY HOURS Ser vin g th e C o l u m bia

e Vall

y

Monday, Tuesday: 10 am -5 pm Wednesday: 10 am -8 pm Thursday: 10 am - 6 pm Friday: 10 am -5 pm Saturday: 10 am -2 pm

invermere.bc.libraries.coop Flying Max Fanderl helps a guest start the new year with a new perspective via a tandem paragliding flight from Panorama.

Windshield Replacement See us for windshield replacement or repairs.

Your local ICBC Approved Glass Express Shop.

In-house claim processing.

Serving Residential and Commercial Clients

#3, 109 Industrial #2, Invermere B.C. 250-342-3659 • Fax: 250-342-3620

www.invermereglass.com

GREAT GAS

Brad Kitching trains hard for the Freestyle Nordic Grooming event he hopes will one day be part of the Winter Olympics.

Until then, skate and classic skiers get to enjoy the exceptional grooming at Lake Lillian.

GIVEAWAY This week’s winner is…

R

MA

S

C

O S SR OAD

RKET

Dan Meikle

Many, many more draws will continue through 2022.

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

COME BY & CHECK IT OUT!

With the Valley receiving a lot of snow last week, snow clearing - on roads, sidewalks and the Invermere Trail System - has been a critically important service to ensure that people can get outside and around the community safely.

Photos by Ryan Watmough

Babies 2021 of

Did you welcome a new addition to your family in 2021? Show off your little bundle of joy in the January 27th edition of The Columbia Valley Pioneer! Simply submit a high resolution photo of your baby (or grandbaby, niece, nephew...) along with the child’s full name, date of birth, weight at birth, parents’ names and a fun fact about the child.

The cost is $35+tax, deadline for submissions is Friday, January 21st.

For more information or to book your space, contact Amanda Nason at 250-341-6299 ext. 102 advertising@columbiavalleypioneer.com or Lerissa McLaughlin at 250-341-6299 ext. 103. lerissa@columbiavalleypioneer.com

January 13, 2022

VALLEY NEWS

Chief of Staff gives COVID Update Submitted by Stefanie Mclellan, M.D. Chief of Staff, Invermere and District Hospital Happy New Year! As everywhere in BC we are seeing a significant increase in COVID cases, due to the highly contagious Omicron variant. Our case count is currently at 42, however the true number of COVID cases is likely higher as we have limited testing capacity. Luckily, we have not seen a significant increase in hospitalizations or severe illness so far. However, many workplaces are affected by staffing shortages due to illness. This has affected the hospital as well, but we are managing at this time.

There have been some recent changes in testing and isolation requirements around COVID you should be aware of: • If you are a close contact with someone with COVID, and you are fully immunized with 2 doses of the COVID vaccine, and you have no symptoms, you do not need to isolate and you do not need a COVID test. If you are not immunized, you need to isolate for 10 days.

• If you are a close contact with someone with COVID, and you have any symptoms, self isolate and get a test.

• If you have symptoms of COVID, refer to the chart by the BC CDC to determine if you need a COVID test.

• Due to the increased demand for testing, and limited capacity, the turnaround time for PCR results has increased significantly. We have rapid antigen tests

The Columbia Valley Pioneer • 3

which we can give out. However, we have a limited supply of these and they are only for symptomatic people who meet criteria for testing. To obtain a rapid antigen test, drop into the COVID testing site (behind the hospital, near the ambulance station) between 10 and noon, every day of the week. PCR tests are now limited to people over 65 years or children under four, health care workers, and residents of long term care homes.

• If you test positive the isolation period has now been reduced to five days for those who are fully immunized, as long as you feel better and have no fever. If you are not immunized, you need to isolate for 10 days. You should also self report your positive test and let your close contacts know.

As of last Friday [Dec. 31], the province has opened up booster vaccination to anyone over 18. Many of you will likely receive an invite now. We have increased our capacity for administering vaccine boosters significantly by doubling the appointments available every day and adding one extra day a week. We are also grateful to our colleagues at Lambert-Kipp Pharmacy and Pharmasave who are participating in the COVID immunization program.

To get a booster dose, wait for your invite from Immunize BC and then book your appointment either at public health or at a pharmacy. Please do not drop in for your booster. For dose one and two of the COVID vaccine, you can drop in to public health Wednesday to Friday from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. and 1 to 3 p.m.

Invermere council meetings stay in CVC for now Recent bylaw amendments allow hybrid digital-and-in-person meetings to be held at municipal office if need arises

By Steve Hubrecht steve@columbiavalleypioneer.com Invermere council meetings had appeared set to switch to having the public and some council members or district staff attend virtually throughout this winter, but last week that changed at the last moment.

The move was prompted by a scheduling conflict. The local Air Rifle Club had been practising on Tuesday night in the Columbia Valley Community Centre since November, on the same night and in the same building that Invermere council holds its meetings.

Both the meetings and the air rifle practices were held in the centre’s large main room, with a retractable wall pulled across the middle of the space to separate the two events. But even with the wall in place, the noise of the air rifle practice proved loud and distracting at a few council meetings this past fall. It was never bad enough to actually stop a council meeting, but the muted

popping sounds coming through the wall occasionally made it hard for those physically present at the meeting to hear what presenters or audience members were saying. At times, those speaking would pause, waiting for a quieter time to finish their comments.

Council meeting participants (both presenters and council members) patching in to meetings digitally, however, often had it more difficult. At one point, Invermere Mayor Al Miller was attending a late November council meeting by Zoom (after being left stuck on the coast by the heavy flooding and landslides across B.C. at the time) and he admitted to those gathered at the meeting in person that, with the air rifle practice going on, he could not completely follow what was being said.

Simply moving the air rifle practice to another day was not feasible, since Tuesday was the only evening the air rifle instructor and participants could meet.

Continued on page 12...

Where Real Estate Happens™

COVID cases jump in Windermere area Final week of 2021 saw 15 per cent of all COVID-19 reported here in last two years

By Steve Hubrecht steve@columbiavalleypioneer.com

rising number of Omicron variant cases right across B.C. or to the large infux of visitors in the Columbia Valley over the Christmas holidays. Golden, Kimberley and Cranbrook all also have significant winter tourism industries and typically see an increase in visitors during Christmas holidays. No local officials have made comments on what specifically may be driving this rise, and readers should bear in mind that such anecdotal suggestions are unproven.

The 70 cases reported in the Windermere Health Area during the final week of 2021 represent 15 per cent of all COVID-19 cases reported here since the pandemic began almost two years ago.

The number of COVID-19 cases in the local Windermere Health Area more than tripled in the final week of last year.

The B.C. Centre for Disease Control (BCCDC) reported 23 COVID-19 cases in the Windermere Health Area (which encompasses the Columbia Valley from north of Spillimacheen to south of Canal Flats) during the week leading up to Christmas (Dec. 19 to Dec. 25). But by the end of the following week, between Christmas and New Year’s Day (Dec. 26, 2021 to Jan. 1, 2022) the number of cases had jumped to 70.

Data for the first week of 2022 (Jan. 2 to Jan. 8) was not available as of Pioneer press time. The rise in the Windermere Health Area mirrors similar rises in other nearby health areas in the East Kootenay, including the Golden Heath Area (which went from 17 cases to 81), the Kimberley Health Area (which went from 11 cases to 25), and the Cranbrook Health Area (38 cases raised to 94).

A great many anecdotal sugges- BCCBC Map screenshot depicted COVID-19 tions flying around the Columbia cases from Dec. 26, 2021 to Jan 1, 2022.

Screenshot by Steve Hubrecht Valley last week alluded either to the

Realty Invermere

The 2022 Calendars have arrived!

SCOTT WALLACE 250-342-5309

BERNIE RAVEN 250-342-7415

JAN KLIMEK 250-342-1195

CHRIS RAVEN 250-409-9323

DANIEL KREUTZER 204-481-3159

DORAN CAIN 250-342-1629

ALICIA BALAWYDER 250-919-2582

STEVE HENDERSON 250-341-5128

CHARLOTTE MARSHALL 250-899-9912

DAVE JENKINS 250-341-7344

PAUL GLASSFORD 250-341-1395

1214 -7th Avenue, Invermere Ph: 250-341-6044 • realestateinvermere.ca

4 • The Columbia Valley Pioneer

RCMP Report

SECURITY Est. 2005

• • • •

Uniformed Guards Mobile Patrol Alarm Response Property Checks

www.valleyhawk.com

Licensed & Insured

250-688-HAWK

Invermere & Surrounding Areas

Selkirk Cellulars & Office Supplies www.selkirkcells.com

Be sure to check out the cellular accessories tab!

Submitted by Sgt. Darren Kakuno Detachment Commander Columbia Valley RCMP This past week, January 3rd through January 9th the Columbia Valley RCMP responded to 47 calls for service. The following is a summary of some of the files our officers responded to.

“Back to School Supplies” See our great selection!

Cell phones, tablets, cases, charging cords, screen protectors, and more!

Delivery options available.

Store hours: Monday - Friday: 10 am – 6 pm Suite 1, 519 - 13th Street Invermere, BC V0A 1K0 Ph: 250-342-0025 info@selkirkcells.com

• • • •

January 13, 2022

• On Wednesday, January 5 at 1:30 a.m., Columbia Valley RCMP received a report of a break and enter in progress at a gas station in Radium Hot Springs. Officers immediately attended the business and located a set of footprints in the snow leading away from the scene. Officers followed the footprints to a residence in Radium Hot Springs where an adult male was arrested for break and enter, theft and mischief. Evidence of the offence was also recovered at the residence. The male was released on conditions to attend court on a later date.

• On Wednesday, January 5, a resident on Highway 93 in Radium Hot Springs discovered several windows in her truck had been broken sometime overnight. An officer viewed surveillance video footage of the incident and was able to identify the suspect. Charges of mischief are

being recommended against an adult male.

• On Thursday, January 6 at about 3:45 p.m., emergency crews responded to a two vehicle collision on Highway 95 near Edgewater. The driver of a Mitsubishi Eclipse attempted to avoid a commercial transport truck that had come to a stop on the highway but was unable to stop in time and collided into the trailer of the commercial transport truck. The driver and a passenger of the Mitsubishi were transported to the hospital with minor injuries.

• On Friday, January 7, Columbia Valley RCMP responded to a single vehicle collision on Highway 93 in Kootenay National Park. The driver of an Oldsmobile 88 lost control of his vehicle and collided with a concrete barrier. The driver suffered minor injuries. An inspection of the vehicle led officers to believe inadequate tires were a contributing factor to the crash.

The driver was issued a violation ticket for failing to have properly equipped tires while crossing a mountain pass.

• On Sunday, January 9, a resident on Radium Golf Course Road in Radium Hot Springs discovered someone had stolen the catalytic converter from her Honda CRV sometime overnight.

OVER 14 MILES OF EXPERIENCE & MILLIONS OF FRUSTRATED INSECTS!

Manual and remote control awnings Retractable shade and insect screens Aluminum fencing Retractable screen doors for large openings • Storm Doors • Aluminum picket and Glass railing systems

Harold Hazelaar

www.hdrailings.ca

Ph 250.342.7656 sales@hdrailings.ca

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

Columbia Basin Alliance for Literacy (CBAL) was presented with a $500.00 cheque from the Legion towards our Books for Kids campaign on Monday, Jan. 10.

Photo by Heather Flowitt, CBAL Administrator/Bookkeeper

Correction

N E W S PA P E R

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

In last week’s edition, on January 6, the Year in Review submitted on behalf of the Shuswap Indian Band (SIB) was incorrectly credited to Pete Bourke. The person credited should have been Tess Ainsworth, M.A., Territorial Operations Executive Assistant and Communications Officer for the SIB.

Join us January 30th as our Advanced Sommelier (CMS) navigates you through the magic of wine & food pairings.

Starting at 6pm | Five course featured menu, five wine pairings | $79.95 per person. View menu at copperpointresort.com/dining Call or email fbmanager@copperpointresort.com to book your reservation.

Visit our Resort website for detailed information and pricing.

Located at Copper Point Resort, 760 Cooper Road

250-341-4002 • www.copperpointresort.com

January 13, 2022

Adaptive Eskaip gets first user

By Steve Hubrecht steve@columbiavalleypioneer.com

FREE HOME EVALUATIONS FIND OUT WHAT YOUR HOME IS WORTH IN THIS CRAZY MARKET! DAVE McGRATH

ASS O CIATE B RO K E R

250.341.1967

w w w .Moun t a i n L i fe Ho m e s.c a

DISTRICT OF INVERMERE

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

NOTICE OF INTENT – PUBIC HEARING Zoning Bylaw Amendment No.1610, 2021 Lot A, District Lot 375, Kootenay District Plan NEP 85083 PID:027-267-661 (Subject Property) Address: 210-12th Avenue NOTICE is given of a Public Hearing to be held at the Columbia Valley Centre located at 646 - 4th Street , Invermere at 5 pm MST on Tuesday, January 18, 2022. The hearing is scheduled to address an application to amend Zoning Bylaw No.1145, 2002.

The District of Invermere is considering a zoning amendment application made by the owners of the subject property, legally described above, and identified in the map below. The applicant’s desire is to amend the current zoning designation from R-1 SINGLE FAMILY RESIDENTIAL (LOW DENSITY) to R-1A SINGLE FAMILY (SMALL LOT) RESIDENTIAL for future subdivision and residential development.

COVID protocols, i.e., masks, hand sanitizing and physical distancing will be in effect at the hearing.

If you believe that your interest in property is affected by the proposed Bylaw amendment you may, prior to the hearing, fax written comments to 250-342-2934, email comments to planning@invermere.net or drop off your comments at the District of Invermere Office, by Monday January 17 at 12 noon MST. You may inspect the proposed Zoning Bylaw Amendment No.1610, 2021 online at the District of Invermere web site https:// invermere.net/news/ If you have questions or require more information, please contact Rory Hromadnik, Director of Development Services at 250-342 9281, extension. 1235 or planning@invermere.net Rory Hromadnik, Development Services

Dine in or Take-away!

FEATURES 70 $

70

$

Wednesday-Saturday, 12-8 pm Sunday, 10 am- 7 pm Monday & Tuesday CLOSED

Dad Joke?

When it becomes apparent!

Palladino has become good friends with Bolt over the past two years, and as soon as she saw the RAD Society’s Facebook post about the arrival of the Eskaip here in the valley, she knew she had to try it the very next time she was here.

The Eskaip is double mounted, with both skis fixed to the rig, and the Revolutions Mountain Gear store in downtown Invermere is the “hub point” from which people can rent the sledge.

Find out more at www.radsociety.ca.

The local Recreation Adapted (RAD) Society’s Eskaip adaptive cross country ski sledge — the only one in the world available for the public to rent — had its first user during the Christmas holidays.

In its Dec. 16 issue, the Pioneer reported how the Eskaip — a $6,000 piece high-end recreation equipment — had been brought to the valley by the local nonprofit RAD Society as part of society founder Tanelle Bolt’s ongoing initiatives to help improve the gap in recreation services for people with mobility challenges, who live in or are visiting the valley.

Edmonton construction engineer and regular Columbia Valley visitor Nicole Palladino took the Eskaip out for a spin, going cross country skiing with her partner Drew Nikirk and his sister on Boxing Day, and enjoyed it so much she used it again two days later, and then again the following day.

“It was awesome. I am so grateful for the work Tanelle does,” Palladino told the Pioneer. “I’ve never tried an adaptive cross country ski before. It was difficult in terms of I had to learn a lot, but once I was able to get going, and ski with Drew and his sister, that was amazing.”

Palladino has been visiting the valley, where Nikirk grew up, for the past five years and had always enjoyed taking advantage of all the outdoor recreation the area offers.

But two years ago she became paralyzed from the chest down following a mountain biking accident in Costa Rica, and the way she recreates had to change. She’s quick to credit the RAD Society for making the outdoors in the Columbia Valley accessible for her and other with mobility challenges.

“The RAD Society does so much, I can’t believe how much ac- Edmonton construction engineer and regular Cocess I have to the outdoors when I lumbia Valley visitor Nicole Palladino recently was visit the valley, even though I am the first person to rent the RAD Society’s adaptive paralyzed. It’s pretty incredible,” Eskaip cross country ski. Palladino enjoyed it so much, she proceeded to rent the Eskaip three times she said. in four days.

Submitted photo

WINTER

When does a joke become a

Steak Night ~ Saturday

Two steak entrees and two 6oz glasses of BC wine (upgrade to a bottle for $15)

Seafood night ~ Friday

Two seafood features two 6oz glasses of BC wine (upgrade to a bottle for $15) Friday

50 $ 25

$

Wednesday Date-night.

Two pasta entrees and a two 6oz glasses of BC wine (upgrade to a bottle for $15)

Taco Thursdays

3 featured, Chef-driven, tacos with either a Chelada or Michelada. Seasonally inspired flavours change every week.

Daily soup+sandwich feature ~ Wednesday-Saturday, 12-3 pm

Open for Sunday Brunch Supper 30 Sunday

$

Weekly changing, two-course Sunday Roast dinner

250-342-0562 • 877-877-3889 • www.eagleranchresort.com

6 • The Columbia Valley Pioneer

PERSPECTIVE

Should a new year mean a ‘new you?’

January 13, 2022

Historical Lens

By Pioneer Staff info@columbiavalleypioneer.com Each year, January first signals a time of rebirth, growth, and goal-setting. It is during this time in which people all over the world look inwards and set longstanding resolutions for themselves.

Whether that means starting a new diet, working out on a regular basis, increasing financial stability, learning new skills and hobbies, or spending more time with loved ones — the goal is almost always the same — that the changes will ultimately deem them a “better person.”

A survey executed by Tangerine in 2018 discovered that 69 per cent of Canadians set New Year’s resolutions, mainly focusing on increasing their long-term physical, mental, or financial well-being.

However positive the intention behind these resolutions, the question remains: should a new year mean a ‘new you’ entirely? Or should such resolutions be rooted in an increased sense of current self-appreciation?

This question is amplified as we ring in 2022 with festive cheer and explosive fireworks, especially given the long-term hardships that 2021 brought with it, including stressful elections, natural disasters, societal divides, and — of course— the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic.

This is not to say one shouldn’t strive to be better, and make resolutions that will enforce such behaviors, but rather to make them achievable, and cognizant of these unprecedented times. Perhaps instead of making broad, sweeping goals that will potentially dwindle and lose steam by February, make such resolutions smaller and thus, more feasible. Things like writing down one thing a day that you are grateful for or brings you joy can make all the difference, and the likelihood of continuing the tradition is much higher come the later months of 2022.

Maybe, when considering the circumstances that brought us to this moment, we could all try to be increasingly grateful for what we still have. We have survived, and we are still surviving.

Two men with cross cut saw posing with logs and firewood. Located in Fairmont.

C1942, 1912-1916, courtesy Windermere District Historical Society

Crystalline and Stockdale Creeks Old Growth Deferral Dear Editor: I am writing in support of the BC Government proposal deferring Old Growth logging in Crystalline and Stockdale Creeks. I would also like to urge local elected officials and the Government of BC to take responsibility for the planning and control of our forests.

I also urge local residents witnessing the systematic drainage by drainage elimination of the forest cover to voice their concerns. The forest cover is vital for our water, our wildlife, our protection from floods, our oxygen supply and clean air. Contact the BC Premier and Forest Minister of BC on this matter. Our current Government now has a House majority and could respond to our concerns.

The Liberal Government elected in 2001 and in power until 2017 essentially eliminated forest management by the Forest Service. Our most valuable resource was delivered to public enterprise.

We are seeing systematic logging of all merchantable wood harvested drainage by drainage. It will continue until little of our forest remains. The corporations will then close the mills and move on. We have seen this again and again in our Province and in our area: Golden, Canal Flats and Cranbrook. A long term view for mills staying open is needed not just

the short term that corporations and elected officials seem to prefer.

Currently, most tasks contracts in the Forest are contracted out to the lowest bidder. The responsibility for contractors is to supply their equipment and hire workers etc. Lowest bid leads to operators lowering staff wages in order to be able to make payments for equipment and at least break even. Life in the woods for workers means long hours and personal sacrifice if you want to be employed.

At the present time the Forest Licensees are free to operate with very few restrictions. The BC Government offices tell you to contact the company in charge of the forest for any information or dispute. Last time I went for information at the Government office in Invermere they did not even have maps of what was or would be harvested.

With the lack of Legislation (laws, acts, regulations etc) the legal requirements for Forest Operations are so low that logging such as cutting to the water’s edge of water bodies, heavy equipment operating on wet soils thus degrading productivity and areas are often left unusable for wildlife due to the amount of wood waste impeding movement.

There is no reason why our BC forests could not offer good paying jobs within our local communities.

Continued on page 7 . . .

Photo by Elisha Terada on Unsplash

The Columbia Valley

CANADIAN COMMUNITY NEWSPAPER AWARD 2013

P

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

Haley Grinder

Local Journalism Initiative Reporter Ext. 107

Steve Hubrecht Magazine Editor/ Reporter Ext. 105

Lerissa McLaughlin Sales Representative Ext. 103

Christina Boucher Office Administrator Ext. 101

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.

January 13, 2022

Invermere strategic priority update Funding formula for 13th Avenue work, STR research, civic land strategy policy to come before council in 2022

By Steve Hubrecht steve@columbiavalleypioneer.com Invermere council recently gave an update on progress on its strategic priorities.

The update, during the council meeting of 2021, came at the urging of local resident John Rouse, who has been seeking updates from council on various initiatives, particularly its efforts to deal with short term rentals (STRs), at multiple council meetings throughout the fall.

Invermere’s current top five ‘now’ strategic priorities (i.e. its most pressing strategic priorities) are (in descending order): the 13th Avenue Infrastructure replacement project (including developing a funding formula for phase two of the project, which is set to occur in 2022; a civic land strategy (the current step is conducting an assessment); attainable housing (current step is researching best practices on dealing with STRs and long term rental shortages); creating a climate change actions priorities report; and developing a draft asset management financial strategy.

Invermere Chief Administrative Officer, Andrew Young outlined to Rouse and others in the audience at the Dec. 14 meeting that in terms of the first priority, a lot of work has been done on 13th Avenue this year, and that a funding formula for future planned work in 2022 was brought forward to council this fall, and will likely get second and third reading during a council meeting this January.

For the second priority, civic land strategy research was conducted by district staff through September, and “that work is almost complete” said Young, adding a proposed policy will likely come before council in 2022.

District staff are currently conducting research on STR practices and dealing with long term rental shortages (the third priority), which also will be brought to council in the new year, explained Young, adding that for climate change (the fourth priority), a detailed report was presented to council at the December committee of the whole meeting, “where it was very well received by council.”

On the fifth priority, the draft asset management financial strategy, only initial work has been done so far, as other issues had popped up throughout the fall that required more immediate attention, concluded Young.

Rouse thanked staff for the update and thanked them also for the new custom of including a copy of Invermere’s strategic priorities at the top of each council meeting agenda, but suggested the district needs to do more to keep the community informed on its progress on these priorities, and that it shouldn’t take prodding from the public to get a regular update.

“You don’t seem to feel it necessary to convey to the community where you are on the priorities,” said Rouse.

“It doesn’t need to be overly detailed. Just some information on ‘are you making progress on this priority or not?’

You can’t tell from this (the copy of the priorities at the top of the agenda). It would be very useful to have some kind of report as to where you are, at least periodically.”

Invermere Councillor Gerry Taft responded it may be difficult to communicate an accurate timeline on many of the priorities, as the work involved is complex, involves many steps, and consequently it is hard to say exactly how long the whole effort will take.

Rouse replied that a detailed, overarching timeline for each priority is not what he’s suggesting, but instead “why not simply communicate where you are in the process. A roadmap would be useful.”

He noted that the general public often says it looks as though council is doing very little on a given priority, and hypothesized that this is not because council isn’t doing any work.

Continued on page 15...

LETTERS

...Continued “Growth” from page 6 A good place to start would be to eliminate full log exports and instead sell manufactured products within B.C. and to other countries instead of shipping full logs and jobs mainly to the U.S. I am not sure when the last time that the Annual Allowable Cut for our forest was brought up to date. If required this would be a key process to undertake in order to determine how a forest forever could be sustainable with

yearly harvest of timber. Keep in mind that tourism to see Old Growth and healthy forest draws a lot of people to B.C. A well-managed forest with local production of forest products would employ more people working in meaningful jobs with better wages and a better place to be for families and community.

Please make your voices heard.

Chris Espinel, Invermere

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

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

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

The Columbia Valley Pioneer • 7

8 • The Columbia Valley Pioneer

January 13, 2022

We Want You

Sign up your business as a Chamber member for 2022 and join over 300 hundred local businesses working together for a prosperous future...

Every dollar saved is a dollar earned. Through our affiliations, your membership unlocks savings on everything from payment processing, fuel costs and exclusive offers from fellow members – plus group health insurance that can’t be beaten!

We are focused on fostering a culture of positive energy and a strong, local business community that can provide all of the infrastructure and amenities you need to start, expand or relocate your business.

OUT OF OFFICE…

Employee Shortage Survey Results This past November and December, the Columbia Valley Chamber of Commerce conducted a labour shortage survey. We are proud to say that 99 local businesses completed the survey. As a result, we were able to analyze a large quantity of accurate, local data to guide us on how to best help valley businesses.

Of the 99 businesses that responded, The Columbia Valley is currently short 292 full-time employees. In addition, local businesses are short an additional 81 parttime employees. That is a large number to consider, but here are a few of the main issues raised and some possible solutions.

Housing Shortage We can’t talk about labour shortage without talking about housing. Lack of available rental housing was identified as one BU of the top reasons for the emSI NE ployee shortage. Staff acSS commodation is one ES possible solution for businessOF es.

A TH 1 3 0 E

W

EE

K!

unit workforce housing project is being proposed in Invermere by Generation Homes. With a mix of one, two, and three-bedroom units, the development will offer a range of layouts suitable for a variety of residents.

If you have staff accommodation, you need to make sure you have the proper lease in place. Join us for a workshop on Thursday January 27. Christine Scott with Generation Homes will be presenting their housing project; and Derrick Murphy with Columbia Valley Law will speak to staff accommodation lease agreements.

Living Wage “Employers have found that implementing a living wage has increased their employee recruitment and retention” – livingwageforfamilies.ca. In our survey 71% of businesses who paid a living wage ($17.18/hr) were ‘very confident’ they will have enough staff for the 2022 summer. The Canada Summer Jobs Grant is now open for intake. It provides grants to businesses for $7.60/ hr and non-profits $15.20/hour for summer employees April – September. Grants like this could be used to top up wages. Applications are due by January 25, 2022.

Marketing Your Jobs Great effort is put into marketing businesses goods and services. Is the same effort put into marketing jobs and employment opportunities? On January 25, we will be hosting a workshop on marketing jobs and will also cover how to write job descriptions, and where to advertise.

Regional Recruitment Effort Over the next weeks the Chamber of Commerce will be launching a regional recruitment effort. This will include attending virtual job fairs across Canada and a local job board.

If you are interested in attending any of the workshops, applying for wage subsidy grants, or being involved with our regional recruitment efforts, please visit www.cvchamber.ca or contact Theresa Wood, advisor@cvchamber. ca. continuing our efforts to give back to the community.

FEATURED BUSINESSES OF THE MONTH!

JANUARY 27, 2022

New to the Valley?

Register for a free welcome package!

Welcomecv.ca

CONTACT US TODAY AND BECOME A MONTH FEATURED BUSINESS! CVCHAMBER.CA/OUTOFOFFICE

January 13, 2022

cvevents cv events.ca .ca WHAT’S HAPPENING?

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 250-3423440 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!

THE COLUMBIA VALLEY COMMUNITY EVENTS CALENDAR IS POWERED BY

Fridays

The Columbia Valley Pioneer • 9

scan me!

Tuesdays

• 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.

• 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!

Saturdays

Wednesdays

• 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 1:304 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 250-3426416 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

• 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.

WHITEWAY WINTER CHALLENGE Skate, Ski, or Run

Now includes Panorama and Nipika!

January 1 – February 28 Register as a single or a team Tobycreeknordic.com/challenge

CVCHAMBER.CA/ OUTOFOFFICE

CONTACT US TODAY AND GET EYES ON YOUR NEXT EVENT

10 • The Columbia Valley Pioneer

January 13, 2022

Winter of the Bobcat

DISTRICT OF INVERMERE

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

NOTICE TO ALL DOG OWNERS All dogs over the age of four months residing in the District of Invermere require an annual dog license, from January 1st to December 31st. Licensing allows Dog Control to contact you as soon as possible if your dog has been impounded or if the dog has been injured.

If you live within the District of Invermere and own a dog, please drop by the municipal office at your earliest convenience to purchase a dog tag. Office hours are 8:30 - 4:30 Monday – Friday and payment can be made by cash, cheque, or debit.

UNSPAYED or UNNEUTERED DOG ................$35 SPAYED or NEUTERED DOG .........................$15 We encourage all pet owners to have their dogs spayed or neutered to assist in promoting the health of your animal and to minimize the potential for unwanted pups in the community. As an incentive to spay or neuter your dog, the various license and impound fees for spayed or neutered animals are less than if your animal is not spayed or neutered.

For dog control issues within the municipality, please contact our Dog Control Officer at 250-342-1707.

As we now know, plastic is not so fantastic. Up to a trillion plastic bags per year are used around the world. While most of them go to landfill sites where, scientists estimate, takes up to 1,000 years to break down, millions still end up in waterways, trees, and in our oceans where it eventually ends up in stomachs of fish and birds. We encourage you to use biodegradable dog waste bags, which are available at various sites throughout town.

Please recycle this newspaper

CONSERVATION CORNER

the foothold trap in/near the community of Canal Flats (Report All Poachers and Polluters Line at 1-877-9527277).

On Jan. 3, 2022, a call was received regarding a bobSubmitted by Sgt. Greg Kruger cat that had returned to a property along Windermere Creek and was currently in a chicken coop. This bobcat Columbia Valley Conservation started killing domestic rabbits and chickens on acreages Officers (CO) have dealt with three bobcat incidents over in this area on Christmas Day, so COs set a live trap in the last week when they ventured too close to people or the hopes of capturing it. Instead of entering the trap for their domestic animals. a frozen meal, it kept finding ways to break into the pens On Dec. 31, 2021, a concerned citizen from Canal to get a ‘fresh’ dinner. With the bobcat held captive in the Flats called in to report they discovered a bobcat dragging coop by the residents, a CO attended and caught it with a trap on its front paw in their carport. With the assis- a catchpole and relocated it away from its newly found tance of neighbours, they were able to contain the bobcat food source. On Jan. 4, Invermere COs received a report until a CO arrived. A quick assessment revealed that the of a bobcat that had killed two mini-goats on a property leghold trap had been on this animal for some time during in Edgewater. The next day a live trap was deployed, and the extremely cold weather and the paw had suffered con- the offending cat is successfully caught when it returned siderable damage. This bobcat was transported to the for a feeding. This animal also gets a ride to a new home Invermere Veterinary Hospital, where the frozen paw was where it has more opportunity at catching natural prey. thawed out and examined by Dr. Mark Zehnder. The Bobcats have more difficulty in areas of deep windecision was made that the paw was damaged beyond ter snow. Unlike lynx, bobcats have relatively small feet repair and would have to be amputated. Given that, and snow greatly reduces their mobility and ability to this bobcat would no longer catch prey. Bobcats are have much of a chance being opportunistic and will released back into the wild, arprey upon a wide variety rangements were made to send of animals. They do not it to a permanent home at the generally pose a threat Northern Lights Rehabilitato humans but can be tion Center in Smithers, B.C. a threat to unattended Special thanks to Dr. Zehnder pets and small animals. and his expert staff for giving Keep livestock and small this animal a second chance. animals that live outInvermere COs would also be doors confined in secure interested in hearing from anypens during periods of Windermere Creek Bobcat. Photo by Sgt. Greg Kruger vulnerability. one with any information on who was responsible for setting

Apply now

COMMUNITY INITIATIVES AND AFFECTED AREAS PROGRAMS

Wish to apply for project funding?

The Community Initiatives & Affected Areas Programs are now accepting applications for: ADMINISTERED & MANAGED BY

• City of Cranbrook • District of Sparwood • Electoral Area C

• City of Fernie • Village of Canal Flats • Electoral Area E

• City of Kimberley • Village of Radium Hot Springs • Electoral Area F

• District of Elkford • Electoral Area A • Electoral Area G

• District of Invermere • Electoral Area B

Applications must be submitted using the Trust’s online application system.

Learn more: engage.rdek.bc.ca/cbt or contact Nikki Bradshaw at 250-489-2791 or 1-888-478-7335 or CIPApplications@rdek.bc.ca 1.250.489.2791 1.888.478.7335

Apply by 2:00pm, Monday, January 17, 2022

A PROGRAM OF

NOMINATIONS NOW OPEN

2022 Electoral Area VOLUNTEERS OF THE YEAR Nomination Deadline is FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 11, 2022 Nominees must be a resident of an Electoral Area and make voluntary contributions to the spirit, culture or people of the community.

Nomination forms are now available at our Cranbrook & Columbia Valley RDEK offices and on: engage.rdek.bc.ca/volunteer

1-888-478-7335 | www.rdek.bc.ca

January 13, 2022

The Columbia Valley Pioneer • 11

HERE TO SERVE YOU SERVICES

SERVICES

SERVICE EXCELLENCE SINCE 1991

All Makes and Models

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

Tire Sales and Installation

We give all students 15% off with valid student ID

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

• • • •

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

Arnold Scheffer 250-342-6700

unidoorext@live.ca • unidoorext.ca

Industrial ~ Commercial ~ Residential

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

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

CLEANING & MAINTENANCE ON ALL WOOD BURNING APPLIANCES • WETT INSPECTIONS

Scott Postlethwaite

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

Free Estimates

invermereelectric@gmail.com

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

Check the BC RECYCLEPEDIA Open Mon. – Sat., 9 a.m. - 6 p.m.

Irena Shepard , B.Sc. (Pharm.)., and Sun., 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. www.rcbc.ca Émilie Lamoureux, Pharm D., 1301 - 7th Avenue, Invermere Laura Kipp, Pharm D.

250-342-6612

Your Compounding Pharmacy RECYCLING COUNCIL OF B.C. MEMBER

INSURANCE

ing questions?

INSURANCE

Recycle? Yes or no?

Get the BC RECYCLEPEDIA App

YCLING HOTLINE 04-732-9253 P.O. Box 130 Invermere, BC V0A 1K0 800-667-4321 Office: 250-342-2175 • Fax: 250-342-2669

INSURANCE AGENCIES LTD.

BOX 2228 742 - 13th STREET INVERMERE, BC V0A 1K0 Cindy.mackay@kootenayinsurance.ca P: 250-342-3031 F: 250-342-6945 NG COUNCIL OF B.C. MEMBER RECYCLING COUNCIL OFinfo@lambertinsurance.ca B.C. MEMBER

www.kootenayinsurance.ca

• • •

Complete sewer/drain repairs Reasonable rates – Seniors’ discount Prompt service

•

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

250-347-9803

KITCHEN CABINETS & COUNTER TOPS

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

LAMBERT-KIPP Can this be (2019) LTD. PHARMACY recycled?

RECYCLING COUNCIL OF B.C. MEMBER

NEW SEWER CAMERA

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

Beat the fall rush ~ clean your Chimney this spring!

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

(Servicing the Valley since 1999)

WINDOW COVERINGS SHOWROOM

UNIVERSAL DOORS & EXTERIORS

Where to recycle?

• Septic Tank Pumping • Portable Toilet Rentals

North American Warranty

IN THE COLUMBIA VALLEY

www.rcbc.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

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

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

20 years experience • Satisfaction guaranteed!

CONCRETE I N

P U R S U I T

O F

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

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

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

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

N E W S PA P E R

12 • The Columbia Valley Pioneer

January 13, 2022

Continued “CVC” from page 3 In an effort to come to a solution agreeable for all parties, plans were laid out for council to move their council meetings from the Columbia Valley Centre back to the municipal office for the rest of the winter (the air rifle practice was scheduled to run until mid-March). This entailed a small hitch, however: the pandemic is still ongoing and the municipal office is simply not large enough to fit councillors, district staff, and members of the public while still maintaining social distancing protocols.

So last week, at a special meeting on Tuesday, Jan. 4, Invermere council gave first and second reading to bylaw amendments allowing the council meetings to be held digitally, or with a combination of digital and in-person attendance. Council then gave third reading to the amendments and adopted them in a second special meeting on Thursday, Jan. 6. By the time the amendments were adopted however, the need for them was moot, as on Wednesday, Jan. 5, the Air Rifle Club let the district know it was no longer conducting its Tuesday practices,

owing to provincial health orders enacted just prior to the Christmas holidays. Council felt it still made sense to adopt the amendments, Miller told the Pioneer. “The Air Rifle Club is a great club, very youth focused and it does a lot of good for the community, so we wanted to accommodate them. Tuesday was really the only day they could meet, and the Columbia Valley Centre is the only venue large enough to fit them. But we couldn’t compete with the noise. So since council was only scheduled to have about five meetings until their practice schedule ended in March, we wanted to move our meetings,” said Miller. “Then all of sudden the need to move the meetings changed. But given how quickly the situation with the pandemic keeps changing, we thought we might as well go ahead and make the amendments. It gives us flexibility, not just for any future scheduling conflicts, but hopefully for any other curveballs the pandemic may throw at us.”

Miller clarified that with the air rifle practice cancelled, Invermere council meetings will continue to be held in the Columbia Valley Centre.

“Zoom meetings are great when you have no alternative, but it is not quite the same as being [in person.]

We’ve been getting [relatively] large public galleries at our meetings lately. Hopefully that will continue.”

Village of Radium Hot Springs

Grant in Aid Applications The Village of Radium Hot Springs is welcoming applications for grants in aid to community groups for endeavors, events or programs that benefit Radium Hot Springs for the 2022 budget year. Applicants may contact the email address below to request a guide for the application. The deadline for applications will be February 11th, 2022. cao@radiumhotsprings.ca

HERE TO SERVE YOU CONCRETE

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

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

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

Call NOW:

250-688-0213

• 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

CONTRACTING

CONTRACTING

Kekuli Bay Cabinetry

Richard Vernon – Master Plumber & Gasfitter

kekulibaycabinetry.com

Visit www.heavensbest.com for more information

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

• 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

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

Cell: 250-342-1273

ptarmiganrugclean@gmail.com

CONTRACTING

250-688-4868

ST

BROAD

&CON T R A C T I N G

LTD

PLUMBI N G

rvbroadstreet@gmail.com broadstreetplumbing.com

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

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

INTERIOR • EXTERIOR • WALL COVERINGS

Gary’s

Seniors Discounts

• Authorized dealer • Designer • Installer

dale@decontracting.ca • 250-341-7098

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

Professional Painting & Decorating Ltd. 1978

Dale Elliott Contracting

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

Specializing in all heating, electric, gas and wood.

FREE Estimates

Local Resident

CUSTOM WOOD FINISHING FAUX FINISHES JOURNEYMAN RED SEAL

403-650-4622 • garysptg@gmail.com

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

January 13, 2022

The Columbia Valley Pioneer • 13

P IONEER C LASSIFIEDS

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

ANNOUNCEMENT

ANNOUNCEMENT

ANNOUNCEMENT

Alcoholics Anonymous. All meetings are at 8 p.m. Columbia United AA, Invermere: Saturday, Sunday, Tuesday and Wednesday at the BC Service Building, South End – 624 4th St., Invermere.

Please call 250-342-2424 for more 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.

Valley Fitness Society AGM 6:30 pm January 18 Invemere Inn Boardroom or by Zoom: Join Zoom Meeting https://us02web.zoom.us/j/898 17756628?pwd=MHlKQ2w2W Wx2cVMxMWY5Q0NvQjhydz09 Meeting ID: 898 1775 6628 Passcode: 699139

Sillner, Egon Karl November 6, 1930

~ December 4, 2021 It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of our dad, Egon Karl Sillner on December 4, 2021, at the age of 91 years. Egon was born in Salzburg, Austria on November 6, 1930, to parents Marta Ebner and Michael Neümeyer. The majority of his formative years were influenced by the Second World War. After the war ended, Egon earned his Masters in Cabinetmaking. He brought those skills with him when he immigrated to Canada as a twenty-six-year-old with his best friends, Joe and Frank. Landing in Montreal Quebec, he met our mom, Christel Theile. Together they learned English, married, and started a family. The lure of the Rocky Mountains drew Egon west, and he eventually moved his young family to Calgary in 1970.

Here, along with many skilled craftsmen who remain close friends, he went on to build Artek Contracting, a company that applied fine architectural woodworking to commercial interior construction on projects throughout western Canada and the US. A serendipitous business meeting held at Fairmont Hot Springs in British Columbia introduced Egon and Christel to the Columbia Valley. By the late 1970’s, they had purchased land and built a house in which Egon added his woodworking artistry. Christel convinced him to retire in 1985 at fifty-five years of age to pursue his passions, which included riding motorcycles, woodworking, tennis, skiing, travelling and windsurfing.

In retirement, Egon loved to build windsurf boards which he enjoyed with his good friends of the windsurfing community on Columbia Lake. Influenced by his desire to escape winter and windsurf year-round, he and Christel became snowbirds, first spending winters in Kailua on the Island of Oahu, and then later in La Ventana, Baja California. After Christel lost a battle with cancer, Egon went on to discover his new winter paradise on the island of Bonaire. He spent his remaining winters windsurfing, snorkeling and tending to his beloved banana plants. Egon will be remembered for his ability to create beauty with his hands. He maintained a curious mind with a strong intellect and would not suffer fools. You will be so missed dad!

Egon is survived by his children, Jo Anne (Paul) Partlo, Robert (Jackie) Sillner, and grandchildren, Cassandra, Evan, and Christel, his brother Gerhard (Ullie) Ebner and sister Herlinde (Kurt) Grube.

Egon is predeceased by his granddaughter Brianne in 1999 and his wife Christel in 2002.

As per Egon’s wishes, no funeral services will be held. A private family celebration of life will be held at a later date.

If friends so desire, in lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Invermere Health Care Auxiliary Society P.O. Box 571, Invermere BC, V0A 1K0, ph. 250-342-5552, the Canadian Cancer Society, or charity of choice.

Arrangements entrusted to McPherson Funeral Services.

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

In Memory of

Brian Gordon Zavitz 1964-2021 On December 28th, 2021, at 11:45pm Brian Zavitz at the age of 57 years passed away peacefully. He is predeceased by his mother Sharie Zavitz, Uncle Gordon & Cousin Shawn. Brian is survived by his father Doug Zavitz, sister Lisa Zavitz (Wayne W) from Invermere, his niece Andrea in Calgary, his daughters; Jennifer (Steve C), Kaylee & Samantha (grandson Johnathan) in London Ontario; Aunts, uncles and cousins all residing in Ontario. His children Denver, Elma, and Eva who reside in China. Brian was born on March 8th,1964 in Strathroy Ontario. Brian eventually moved to China and resided there for 12 years, first working in the travel industry, then managing toy manufacturing plants. Brian ventured around the world on business fulfilling his keen interest in travel. He returned to Canada in 2018 working for both Home Hardware & Glen Transport. Arrangements by McPherson Funeral Service.

There will be no service. Memorial donations can be made to the Heart and Stroke Foundation.

Symonds, Tony

CHEERS WITHOUT TEARS Cheers to Dwight in Windermere for his efforts in clearing a skating oval around the island and a rink. A great many families enjoyed skating and playing fun hockey games. Greatly appreciated Cheers to Linda Pattison for being an amazing person. Your generosity knows no limit. You are the Best!

CHEERS WITHOUT TEARS

Cheers to new businesses opening in the valley! Double cheers to Sophie & Tristan, new owners of CandyLand!

LISTINGS NEEDED! I WANT TO SELL YOUR HOUSE!

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

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

BUYING OR SELLING CALL 250-341-1202

gerrytaft.ca Personal Real Estate Corporation

Rockies West Realty Independently owned and operated

October 20, 1941 ~ January 4, 2022

We are saddened to share that Tony died on January 4th at the Invermere Hospital. His quick wit, charming personality and kind heart will be missed by all who knew him. Tony was a well-known figure at the Windermere Valley Golf Club, both as a player and marshal. He was an avid sports fan who enjoyed spinning tales about how he played every sport imaginable for Brid.

Tony enjoyed gardening, catching up with friends over a beer and playing cards and games with family and friends. He was also a talented artist and craftsman who could build anything with exacting precision. Tony and Christine enjoyed travelling, spending extended periods in England and New Zealand.

Tony grew up in the seaside town of Bridlington, Yorkshire. A trained architect, he, Christine and their three young girls immigrated to Regina in 1975. After surviving a tornado, they headed west to Calgary. While living there, they began their relationship with Invermere. In 1990, he designed and began to construct the family ‘cabin’ which became the gathering place. In 2011, Windermere Valley became their permanent home.

Tony’s greatest love was his family. He was so proud of the family he and Christine had built and was often heard telling stories of their accomplishments. Tony will be lovingly remembered by the light of his life, Christine, their daughters – Sally (Alex), Kate (Jeff) and Marianne, their grandchildren – Jessica, Sarah (Brandon), Hannah (Darian), Jake (Robyn), Adam (Meghan), Annie (Beck), Piper and Hunter, as well as their great grandchildren – Paisley, Finn, Rhea and River. He also leaves his sister Judy, brother Donovan, their families, Christine’s family and his many cherished friends. Sadly, Tony was predeceased by his great grandson, Remy in 2019.

We are so appreciative of the wonderful support that Tony received.

He would often mention how lucky he was to have such excellent care. We would like to thank the doctors, nurses, and staff at the Invermere Hospital who treated him, and us, so well. A very special thank you to Dr. William Brown, who went above and beyond. This difficult time has made us all realize how special this community is. If friends so desire, a donation may be made to the Invermere Health Care Auxiliary or the Canadian Red Cross, in Tony’s name.

A celebration of life will be held at a later date.

Have something to say?

Letters to the editor can be e-mailed to info@columbiavalleypioneer.com

JARRETT, Raymond Dale July 7, 1935 in Nelson, B.C. – January 2, 2022 Dale passed away peacefully at 86 years old after a brief battle with cancer. Husband of Gail, father of Brenda (Andy) Kveps, Leanne Jarrett and grandfather of Alexander Kveps.

Dale enjoyed a full life and among his interests over the years were various sporting functions, including golf. In that activity his favorite pursuit was a gimme par. Over the years he was a member of the Calgary Inglewood Golf and Curling Club and the Radium Resort Springs course.

His business career was related to the petroleum industry and therein he enjoyed a thirty-eight year association with Amerada Minerals Corporation Of Canada Ltd. (Amerada Hess Corporation).

In retirement, apart from golf, Dale found pleasure from gardening and other various home improvement activities.

Over the years he and his wife Gail travelled a bit and were fond of cruising and land journeys within Europe, resulting in great memories.

As Dale often said, “it was a life well worth living” What is the meaning of a life well lived?

“A life well lived is a precious gift.

It’s filled with moments, sweet and sad. With smiles and sometimes tears, with friendships formed and good times shared.

And laughter through the years. A life well lived is a legacy.”

At Dale’s wishes no funeral services are planned

14 • The Columbia Valley Pioneer

CHEERS WITHOUT TEARS

Cheers to all our wonderful friends for their kind thoughts and flowers on the loss of our mom. Your thoughtfulness is appreciated by our families Cheers to Selena at Fairmont Mountainside Market! Always so pleasant and helpful, just a breath of fresh air! Cheers for being the lovely person you are and helping us all with our daily tasks!

Many Cheers to my Great Neighbours Floyd & Shelan Verge. They have kept my driveway clear of snow everyday, YOU’RE GREAT. Couldn’t have better neighbours. From the OLD GAL on the block.

Cheers to the Pioneer staff for the “2021 Review” edition. Every week they report on important community events, activities and local news. Well done! Keep up the great work in 2022.

Cheers to Monique and Sophie at Radium post office for providing excellent customer service. You ladies are awesome.

Cheers to Kootenay Water for delivering to our door. It’s a great service you provide to our community.

A huge cheers to Gerry Taft for selling our very hard to sell property. Cheers to your hard work, enthusiasm and perseverance you sold it.

A huge cheers to our snow angels Gaston Beland and Doug Woods. We would still be shovelling if it wasn’t for your help. I hope you know how much you are appreciated.

Cheers to Selkirk Cellulars for delivering our stationary order to the office. Great customer service!

Cheers to Family Dynamix for delivering baked goods to our office. Much appreciated.

Very big cheers to Wayne Rossington (and Summit footwear and Shelly Souls for your part) for donating funds generated from the sale of your Christmas tree carvings and your contribution to the Valley GoGo Sisters. The Stephen Lewis Foundation and the African Grandmothers to Grandmothers campaign supporting grandmothers and their families affected by HIV/AIDS will benefit greatly.

January 13, 2022

CHEERS WITHOUT TEARS

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

Dreaming of Summer?

1609 Lower Lakeview Lane $2,350,000 MLS# 2461991

• 1/52 ownership of the “beach” lot • Erin Reid Designed Lake Home. www.InvermereLakefront.RealEstate

Geoff Hill PREC* REALTOR® Fair Realty

Urgent Notice: Our popular “Top down/Bottom Up” & any blind/ shade with a chain, string or cord will be discontinued Jan 24/22 due to Health Canada Regulations.

Don’t miss out & book now.

Customized Window Blinds & Phantom Screens Shannon’s Blinds & Designs (250)342-5749

250-341-7600

HELP WANTED

www.geoffhill.ca The BEST properties sell with Geoff!

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 Cheers to Walkers Auto Repair Staff for the excellent service they give to our vehicles. In particular, John, Jess, Jordan, Dan, Ross, Ken and Jeanie. You give efficient, first class service with a smile. Well done!

WANTED Cash for all silver and gold!

Bullion, bars, rounds, coins, jewellery + also buying coin collections and old money!

Todd’s coins 1-250-864-3521.

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 250-3428889 or email: justatterbury@ hotmail.com 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.

SERVICES B.B.’s Home & Design Services Handyman Services & Renovation’s, Blinds & Installation, Tiling, Painting, House checks/Cleaning, Dump runs, Snow removal. Over 35 year’s experience.

Call 250-688-2897.

Please email classified ads to info@columbiavalleypioneer.com

HELP WANTED

• • • •

Crossroads Market Now Hiring Professional, mature individuals who are customer service oriented.

Both morning and evening shifts available.

Top wages in retail industry Opportunities in all departments Please email resume to kgtltd2020@gmail.com or apply in person at Crossroads Market

KINDERGARTEN REGISTRATION for 2022/2023 School Year We are excited to welcome kindergarten registration applications for children born in 2017, turning 5 in 2022.

Please call your catchment area school between January 24 and February 4 to register.

Edgewater Elementary School Cari Dolgopol, Secretary 250-347-9543 Eileen Madson Primary School Becky Gray, Secretary 250-342-9315 Martin Morigeau Elementary School Holly Pietrosky, Secretary 250-349-5665 Windermere Elementary School Nicole Nelson, Secretary 250-342-6640 RMDL (Learning @ Home Program) Crystal Chasse, Secretary 250-342-9213 Contact the school if you are unable to register your child during the dates indicated.

Visit our website at www.sd6.bc.ca for more information.

Village of Radium Hot Springs

Employment Opportunity: Utility Maintenance Operator The Village of Radium Hot Springs is seeking a Utility Maintenance Operator. This is a wide spectrum position entailing a variety of tasks related to the construction, maintenance, operation and administration of municipal water and sewer utilities, roads, parklands and facilities, buildings and grounds, machinery and equipment, sidewalks, and infrastructure.

The job description, which includes the expected skills, education, and certifications, may be viewed on the Village website: http://www.radiumhotsprings.ca/village-contact/careers Applicants making sufficient progress towards obtaining the necessary certifications may also be considered, providing the individual is committed to acquiring the qualifications within a prescribed period of time.

This is a non-unionized position based on a 40-hour work-week with the usual hours of work being 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., five days per week. This position will involve working during weekends, evenings and holidays when on assigned standby duty or during unusual circumstances. A comprehensive benefits package is included.

The deadline for receipt of applications will be January 27, 2022 at 4 p.m. Only those applicants short listed will be contacted for an interview. Questions regarding the position may be directed to Bruce Zwiers, Public Works Superintendent: Bruce.Zwiers@radiumhotsprings.ca Applications may be sent to village@radiumhotsprings.ca or Mailed to: The Village of Radium Hot Springs PO Box 340 4836 Radium Blvd Radium Hot Springs, B.C. V0A 1M0

January 13, 2022

The Columbia Valley Pioneer • 15

FAITH

LAKE WINDERMERE ALLIANCE CHURCH Now open for in-person services.

Sundays at 10:30 a.m.

326 10th Avenue, Invermere 250-342-9535 • www.lwac.ca

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

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

250-342-6644 • www.wvsm.ca

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

ROMAN CATHOLIC CHURCH

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

Canal Flats: Saturday 4.30 pm Canadian Martyrs, Invermere: Saturday 5 pm, Sunday 9 am.

St. Joseph, Radium: Sunday 11.00 am Father Jojo Augustine • 712 -12th Ave., Invermere 250-342-6167

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

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

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

Relief Society, 11:15 a.m.

President Kendyn MacKensie • Columbia Valley Branch 5014 Fairway, Fairmont Hot Springs 250-421-3756

CANCO

and Bowling Alley

New owners same great full-service gas station ● Propane/Diesel

● Convenience Store

The Carousel of Time

By Pastor Murray Wittke Valley Christian Assembly

Another year has passed. The carousel of time has gone around again.

Only yesterday I was a child eagerly marking my new height on the wall; I was a teenager sporting a deep voice and sprouting whiskers; I was a young man in love, married and welcoming children into our home. Only yesterday they graduated and moved away. Now I’m a grandfather singing songs and reading stories to my grandchildren. Now I play on the floor with crayons, building blocks, race cars and dinosaurs. Time keeps on slipping into the future.

I’m aging. We all are. Everyone and everything around me is growing older. The signs are everywhere.

Recently my glasses were strengthened, several years ago my knee was rebuilt, and before that I was treated for prostate cancer. I’ve noticed conversations often concern people’s health or the passing of family members or

friends. I still work, but the clock is ticking. Very soon I’ll receive Canada pension and be dipping into retirement savings. And after that the closing chapter of life begins.

A young Joni Mitchel once sang “And the seasons they go round and round, and the painted ponies go up and down, we’re captive on the carousel of time. We can’t return we can only look behind from where we came, and go round and round and round in the circle game.”

Our ride on the carousel of time eventually comes to an end. Before that happens listen to the words of a wise old man…“Honor and enjoy your Creator while you’re still young, before the years take their toll and your vigor wanes, before your vision dims and the world blurs and the winter years keep you close to the fire… Remember your Creator before the dust returns to the ground it came from, and the spirit returns to God who gave it.”

Why not begin this New Year with a conversation with our Creator? Don’t put it off. Embark on a spiritual journey and there will be much more to enjoy, as we go round and round on the carousel of time.

Minor Hockey Minutes

Submitted by Gerriann Donahue

Windermere Valley U18 Girls’ team faced stiff competition when they hosted Eckville West Central, the #1 team in their league. They kept it close on Saturday, losing 5-2, with goals being scored by Taya Anderson and Rachel Angebrandt, assisted by Maya Eccles. Sunday, they lost some steam, but kept the Central team to only 3 goals, losing 3-0. The girls are second in their league at this time.

The U15 team travelled to Golden where they won a close game 5-3. The score was 2-1 for the locals after 1 and with no scoring in the second, they started the third period ahead. Golden scored 2 goals to go ahead. Then the local team got serious and scored 3 unanswered goals to win. Goals were scored by Cameron Charette, Brayden Roe (2), Thomas Meena, and Jack McCaffer. Jack, Ethan Spencer, Cameron and Chase Kinsey all had assists.

After finishing December with impressive wins against some tough Calgary Competition, the U13 Rep team travelled to Sparwood and Fernie on Saturday. The team beat Fernie in the first game 14-0 and in the second game 7-1. What pleased the coaches ...Continued “Invermere” from page 7 But rather because council does not communicate very much to the public about the work it is doing. “The community wants to know,” said Rouse.

Invermere Councillor Kayja Becker agreed with Rouse, saying “things actually happen if you read through all the council documents, but it would probably be helpful to have a one page update (on the priorities).”

Councillor Greg Anderson noted that the next for-

most, was the fact that only 3 goals of the 21 scored were unassisted. The team worked as a team passing and using their defence in the play, leading to the great number of goals. The goalies were stellar in both games.

The U13 House team travelled to Golden where they won the closest game of the day 4-3. Golden was ahead 2-0, when Brayden Rice scored to make it 2-1.

Then Theodore Wilson scored on a pass by Crosby Vernon to tie the game. Hayden Walker made it 3-2 on a set up by Brayden and Crosby. Then Hayden, on a pass from Sawyer Wight, scored the winning goal with 52 seconds left in the game.

The U11 team travelled to Cranbrook on Saturday and played an exciting game against Cranbrook, which ended in a 4-4 tie. The locals were ahead 3-1 after 2, then Cranbrook tied the game. Jack Gramlich scored to make it 4-3 and with about 6 minutes left, Cranbrook scored again to tie the game. Other goals were scored by Jack, Jack Joy and Hudson LaPointe. They then played another Cranbrook team here in Invermere, and lost that game 9-1, with Jack Gramlich, on a pass from Luke Cropley, scoring the team’s only goal with 3 minutes to go.

mal strategic priorities meeting is in March and suggested that council and staff write up a report on progress, and the post it online.

“I think, with all due respect, March is a little late,” said Rouse.

Other council members and district staff chimed in, most supportive of the idea of better communicating progress on the strategic priorities to the public, but no resolution on exactly what to do, or when and how to do it was proposed before the meeting ended.

Get your CANCO loyalty card today!

2 2 1

% % % Cash back

on every dollar spent in store

(excluding tobacco products)

On lottery

Best Price on

PROPANE

Visit us on Highway 93/95 between Invermere and Windermere

Bowling Alley

OPEN Wednesday and Thursday 3 pm - 8 pm Friday - Sunday, 3 pm - 9 pm Gift certificates available

16 • The Columbia Valley Pioneer

January 13, 2022

Is hearing loss giraffing you crazy?

Helping you hear better is simply our way of helping you live better.

Let us help find the right hearing solution for you.

“I have been associated professionally with The Hearing Loss Clinic team as an ENT surgeon since 1983. HLC has established that hearing loss is a medical problem and that all hearing loss clients are treated as patients. They have fitted three of my family members and now myself. Amplification has made a significant impact on my life that I did not appreciate previously. Working with their team has been one of the most rewarding parts of my practice over the past 35 years. Thank you.”

Dr. Lawrence C. Jewett Otolaryngologist

2019

Chamber of Commerce Business of The Year Award Winner

2020

Chamber of Commerce Professional Services Excellence Award Winner

BOOK YOUR HEARING EXPERIENCE NOW! CRANBROOK CRANBROOK

CRESTON CRESTON

250-489-2551 250-428-2663 250-428-2663 250-489-2551

FERNIE FERNIE

GOLDEN GOLDEN

INVERMERE INVERMERE

250-430-9389 250-344-2228 250-430-9389 250-344-2228 250-342-2551 250-342-2551

AWARD WINNING SERVICES. AWARD WINNING PRODUCTS. AWARD WINNING TEAM.