Columbia Valley Pioneer, February 10, 2022

February 10, 2022 Vol. 19/Issue 6

The Columbia Valley Pioneer • 1

Your Weekly Source for News and Events

February 10, 2022

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2 • The Columbia Valley Pioneer

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February 10, 2022

The Columbia Valley Pioneer • 3

VALLEY NEWS

Highway safety and wildlife issues prompt stakeholder meeting Radium overpass donation campaign draws two huge contributions on first day

By Steve Hubrecht steve@columbiavalleypioneer.com The Radium bighorn sheep herd continues to generate plenty of attention, and is now even generating some considerable donations toward an overpass to help reduce the number of sheep being hit by traffic.

As the Pioneer reported last week, plans are afoot for a wildlife overpass over Highway 93/95 near Radium Hot Springs and for extra tall wildlife fencing stretching south from the village to Dry Gulch. The Village of Radium Hot Springs has set up an option on its website to allow the public to donate to help get the ball rolling even sooner of the $4 million project.

The donation option went live on Monday, Feb. 7, and on that first day, two huge donations — one for $20,000 and another for $10,000 came in.

“There’s a lot of interest in the bighorns,” Radium mayor Clara Reinhardt told the Pioneer on Feb. 7.

The $10,000 donation came from a senior Cranbrook resident, and the $20,000 donation came from the Shaunessy family trust.

An additional $1,000 in various smaller amounts has

also been donated, and Reinhardt said she suspects even from TransCanada Highway closures that have rerouted more may come in soon since “there have been people all cross country traffic down Highway 93 South to Radicalling from all over Canada to ask how to donate.” um, then north to Golden up Highway 95.

The end result was 15 bighorns killed in 2021, comThe village will figure out a way to track the donations online, using a digital thermometer or something pared with an annual average of 10 in recent years. similar, for instance, and updating it daily, so the public A stakeholder meeting on wildlife issues as well as general traffic safety was held on Tuesday, Feb. 1, involvcan see how much has been raised.

“Our goal is $400,000, which is 10 per cent of the ing 24 officials from local governments, Parks Canada, the RCMP, and senior MOTI staff. total cost,” said Reinhardt.

The provincial Ministry of Transportation and InfraContinued on page 7... structure (MOTI) has committed $1.5 million to $1.6 million toward the overpass and fencing, and ministry representatives had told Radium officials that a public show of interest would help them leverage more provincial funding for the project.

Radium’s resident bighorn herd has for years suffered noticeable increases in vehicle-related fatalities during the fall rut, in winter, and in spring, when heavy snow cover in the hills and mountains sees them favour grazing in town and — frequently — on the slopes right beside the highway near the village. This past year ,the already alarming trend got considerably worse, coBighorn sheep walk along the highway just outside Radium Hot inciding with a dramatic surge in local traffic resulting Springs.

Photo by Ryan Watmough

Local daycare staff protest ECE mask mandate

By Steve Hubrecht steve@columbiavalleypioneer.com Several young Columbia Valley kiddos had some extra time, unplanned, out of school earlier this week, after staff at a local daycare and preschool centre protested against being mandated to wear masks.

On Monday, Feb. 7 Sonshine Children’s Centre was closed as staff gathered downtown with other concerned citizens at the main intersection of 17th Avenue and 13th Street (commonly known as Dysfunction Junction), in front of the Bank of Montreal.

The group, which numbered about 15 to 20 people, waved signs — outlining their concern about the potential negative social and emotional effects of young kids (less than one year old to five years old) not being able to fully see their caregivers’ faces — and soliciting honks of support from drivers passing by. During the 30 to 45 minutes that the Pioneer was present at the protest, roughly every third or fourth vehicle honked or flashed a thumbs up in support. A number of drivers passing by, however, also gave the protestors a thumbs down.

The following day, on Tuesday, Feb. 8, staff were set to return to work, but the board that operates the daycare opted to keep it closed to hold discussions with the staff.

The matter stems from changes to B.C. Centre for Disease Control (BCCDC) guidelines for daycare made back on Jan. 19. One of the changes required most early childhood educators (ECEs) to wear masks. In B.C., up to that point, ECEs working with preschool and daycare age kids had not been required to mask. The board that runs Sonshine — the Sonshine Children’s Center Operations Team (SCCOT) — sought clarification on some points of the changes through a ZOOM meeting with provincial health officer Dr. Bonnie Henry shortly after the Jan. 19 changes, and when that meeting didn’t touch specifically on mask, with a written question.

The board chose to hold off on implementing any changes while it waited for an answer. But by early February, with the written question still unanswered, SCCOT decided to go ahead with the changes starting on Monday, Feb. 7.

Continued on page 5...

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4 • The Columbia Valley Pioneer

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• On Monday, Jan. 31 at about 12 p.m., emergency crews responded to a two vehicle collision at the intersection of Highway 93/95 and Black Forest Trail near Invermere. Witnesses reported the driver of a southbound Acura SUV had run a red light and collided with a transit bus. The transit bus was not carrying any passengers at the time. Neither driver was seriously injured, however, a traffic light was knocked off the light post from the force of the Acura striking the post. The driver was issued a violation ticket for failing to obey a traffic control device.

• On Friday, Feb. 4 at about 6 a.m., police responded to a report of a single vehicle collision on Highway 93 in

Kootenay National Park. The driver of a Ford F150 lost control of his truck and drove into a snow bank. The truck was towed from the scene and the uninjured driver was offered a ride into town.

• On Friday, Feb. 4, at about 12:30 p.m. the driver of a Ford F150 collided with two parked cars and a lamp post in a parking lot on Black Forest Trail near Invermere. Neither of the parked cars were occupied and the driver of the F150 was uninjured.

The collision occurred when the F150 inadvertently accelerated into the parked cars.

• On Monday, Feb. 7 at about 12:30 a.m., the Invermere Fire Department and Columbia Valley RCMP responded to a report of a car fire at Kinsmen Beach in Invermere. Emergency crews arrived to find the front end of a Dodge Neon engulfed in flames. The driver explained she was trying to start the car when smoke started billowing from under the hood. The cause of the fire was believed to be a mechanical issue. No injuries were reported.

Minor Hockey Minutes Submitted article The U15 team stayed home this weekend and played Creston, with the game ending in a tie 4-4.

Bryden Roe scored as many goals as Creston, with 4 goals. more than a hat trick. He had assists from Teegan Booth (2), Carson Scheffer, and Calden Stanbury.

The U18 team travelled to a mini tournament in Creston starting on Friday where they played against Medicine Hat, losing in a close game 5-4. They then played Creston on Saturday, Feb. 5, winning in overtime. Connor Brooks scored the overtime goal unassisted. Later in the day, they played Medicine Hat again, in a penalty riddled game, losing this time 7-2.

They then played Creston again on Sunday winning 5-3 in another game with many penalties.

The U11 team travelled to Canal Flats where they played Cranbrook, losing 1-0.

The U13 House team played at home against

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Creston on Saturday, losing 9-4. The locals were behind 4-0 after 1 period, but worked hard to come back and score 4 goals in the last 2 periods. Goals were scored by Kade Shaw, Theodore Wilson and Tanner Cropley, with assists from Crosby Vernon (2), Brayden Rice and Bryce Konge. The team then lost to Creston on Sunday, 8-0.

The U18 Female team had 2 games against Inferno (from Alberta). They won the first game on Saturday, 3-1 with goals being scored by Mya Spencer and Taya Anderson (2). These two teams played again on Sunday, with the locals winning this game 4-1. Maddy Roe had a hat trick and Mya got the other goal.

The U13 Rep team travelled to Castlegar for a long awaited tournament against the West Kootenay teams. The locals were behind 2-0 in their first game on Friday against Castlegar but came back to win 4-2.

Continued on page 5...

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February 10, 2022 ...Continued “Daycare” from page 3

The Columbia Valley Pioneer • 5 perspective on several points in letters sent to parents of Sonshine kids, noting that a forum for parents would be held on the evening of Tuesday, Feb. 8 (after Pioneer press time, but before the newspaper was distributed in the Columbia Valley).

“At the conclusion of the Feb. 3 meeting SCCOT was of the belief that we had found an amicable resolution to this situation that would avoid childcare services being impacted. On Feb. 4th an email was sent out to parents telling them that staff would be refusing to work. SCCOT had no prior warning of this plan,” wrote Reilly in one of the letters.

He noted that using face shields, as a potential compromise to the issue, is not allowed under public health orders issued by the BCCDC, and that clear or transparent masks that cover the nose and mouth but which allow viewers to see those body parts were an allowable alternative.

“During our all staff meeting (Feb. 3) a number of accommodations were offered and staff were also notified that SCCOT had purchased clear masks,” wrote Reilly.

Reilly apologized repeatedly in the letters, noting the closures left many parents scrambling for alternative childcare arrangements.

After daycare staff were notified, they requested a meeting with the board on Thursday, Feb. 3. On Friday, Feb. 4 staff sent an email to parents of kids at the daycare letting them know they would not be at work the next Monday.

Daycare staff at the protest repeatedly emphasized to the Pioneer that the protest was not about vaccines, vaccine mandates, or even about masks generally, but instead was specifically about masks in daycare and preschool settings. They also emphasized that they purposefully chose to protest at Disfunction Junction instead of at Pothole Park to explicitly disassociate their protest from other pandemic-related protests that have occurred at Pothole Park in the past two years. “We’re not opposed to masks at all. We’re opposed to masks in daycare settings,” said former Sonshine employee and longtime Invermere ECE Sandy Kalesnikoff. “Children learn to speak while watching our mouths, tongues and lips as well as listening to sounds. Masks prevent this from happening, as well as muffling the sounds.”

“If there are negative impacts, I don’t want to be an accomplice to that,” said Sonshine manager Steph Wierenga. “A big part of my job is to support the Sonshine kids as best I can, and I feel — I truly feel — that that is what I am doing by being here.”

Two other ECEs at the protest – Christine Carlow and Kaitlyn LeRoy — spoke with the Pioneer and echoed similar sentiments, saying that masking goes against their ethics as educators.

The Pioneer attempted to contact the board for comment on the protest as well as its perspective on the impacts to children of ECE wearing masks, and also sought comment from Lake Windermere Alliance Church Pastor Josh McCallum (Sonshine runs under the umbrella of the church) but was unable to reach either in the limited time available prior to deadline.

SCCOT member Thomas Reilly A total of 15 to 20 early childhood educators (ECEs) and concerned had, however, out- citizens gathered in downtown Invermere on Monday, Feb. 7 to prolined the board’s test mask mandates for ECEs. Photos by Heather Smythe ...Continued “Hockey” from page 4 On Saturday, they first played Nelson, winning 3-2 and then Trail (where they were again behind 3-1 this time) where they came back to win 7-3. This left them in first place and on Sunday morning they again met Nelson, who played an excellent game, coming back to tie the game 2-2 in the third period.

Cooper Cote scored the winning goal with 2 minutes to go putting the

team in the final. The team then met their rival Cranbrook (a combined Cranbrook/Kimberley team) where they fell behind early, went ahead 5-3, then Cranbrook tied the game with 14 sec. left. There were no goals in overtime, and the local team lost in a shootout. Throughout the tournament both Myan Twogood and Sophie Bacon played superb games, and the entire team played as a team.

A good tournament for the U13 Rep team.

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MOUNTAI NLI FEHOMES.CA DISTRICT OF INVERMERE

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

NOTICE OF PUBLIC INFORMATION AND ENGAGEMENT MEETINGS The District of Invermere is holding Information & Engagement Meetings on February 17, 2022, to seek public input on a proposal to dedicate municipal owned lands in the 600 & 700 blocks of 7th Avenue to help support the development of a new Seniors Housing Complex across from Pothole Park (see site map below).

The public information and engagement meetings will take place as follows:

Background: The Lake Windermere District Lions Club in collaboration with the Lakeview Manor Society have asked the District of Invermere to consider the proposed dedication of these lands to support construction of 60-70 residential units for seniors, in a building consisting of five storeys with potential retail commercial uses at the sidewalk level (see concept illustration above-right).

Rory Hromadnik, Director of Development Services District of Invermere, Email: planning@invermere.net Telephone: 250-342-9281 extension 1235

Thursday, February 17, 2022 (from 12 noon to 8 pm) Columbia Valley Centre at 646 – 4th Street, Invermere, BC Presentations by representatives of the Lake Windermere District Lions Club and Lakeview Manor Society will take place at: 12 noon, 3 pm, and 6 pm Please RSVP for a 45-minute time slot To RSVP, please contact: Cortney Pitts, telephone: 250-342-9281 ext. 1232, email: events@invermere.net Please RSVP to register for a time slot – this will help ensure maximum capacity limits of 100 attendees are followed.

Health protocols will be in place to help ensure the safety of all attendees.

If you are unable to attend the meetings but would like to obtain background information, please contact the following:

Andrew Young, MCIP, RPP, Chief Administrative Officer District of Invermere, Email: cao@invermere.net Telephone: 250-342-9281 extension 1225

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6 • The Columbia Valley Pioneer

PERSPECTIVE

Love in an age of uncertainty

February 10, 2022

Lloyd Watkins, Leonard Cobb, and Harold Harrison (all raised in Brisco) visit the Windermere Valley Museum together. Located in Invermere, C1934, 1980, courtesy of Windermere District Historical Society

By Pioneer staff info@columbiavalleypioneer.com As yet another Valentine’s Day creeps around the corner, love is at the forefront of many minds, especially during the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. As families mourn those lost and celebrate new life entering the world, we’re reminded to not take the gift of time for granted. To value each and every moment with our loved ones and show them our unsolicited appreciation.

But how exactly should we show this? Particularly while tension, stress, and consequently pandemic exhaustion is at an all time high?

According to Gary Chapman, PhD, there are five specific love languages: “words of affirmation, quality time, receiving gifts, physical touch, and acts of service.”

These languages shed light on how individuals “address and feel love.” You may feel the most loved when you cook your love a delicious meal, decadently showcasing all of their favourite ingredients. Or you may feel most loved when you are showered in compliments. Often the two go hand in hand, with the way you show love being how you most like to receive it as well.

This isn’t to say there is only one way to love, yet it can go a long way to recognize and utilize what your partner determines to be the highest form of love. Maybe they crave fancy gifts, or do they prefer something thoughtful and hand-made, with each strand, brushstroke, or piece of tape equivalent to shouting their love for you from the rooftops. Maybe they simply value that precious quality time spent by an evening fire where the two of you chat about the day.

Whatever the answer, it is important to understand that love languages are not exclusive to innately romantic relationships. It can refer to the relationship one has with their parents, their siblings, colleagues, or even new friends.

Now is the time to acknowledge those longstanding family tensions, those bitter breakups, those long lost friendships, and realize we can all be more understanding of the part we may have played.

This Valentine’s Day can be used to change the meaning of traditional love, and make time for those that matter. Call that friend you haven’t called back in months, make those lunch reservations with your parents, or create long lasting memories with your spouse.

Those moments are what you will remember in 10, 20, 30 years, not the gift that you oh so desperately wanted in the moment. Time is the most precious gift of all, so let’s treat it that way.

For those interested in discovering what their own love language is, visit https://www.5lovelanguages.com/ quizzes/love-language to find out.

Historical Lens

Highway protest convoy Dear Editor: I am sure everyone would like our lives to get back to some form of pre-pandemic normality and lifting some restrictions now with the hope that all restrictions can be lifted when it is deemed safe to do so.

In the meantime all the protests across our great Country are affecting the population in general as witnessed the past weeks. It has caused many people much inconvenience, in many ways.

On Saturday, Feb. 5, the Columbia Valley experienced one on Highway 93/95 southbound between Radium Hot Springs and Fairmont Hot Springs. Unfortunately my wife and myself were travelling behind a convoy of over 50 vehicles travelling at speeds between 40 kph and 50 kph in a traffic zone signed at 90 kph.

Due to this we witnessed many vehicles trying to pass this long convoy, and causing northbound traffic sometimes having to use the shoulder to avoid an accident when convoy spacing did not allow the passing vehicle to move into the driving lane safely. Thankfully there were no accidents, but very annoying to other users of the highway.

More annoying was how our Canadian Flag was being displayed on some of the vehicles. An upside-down flag is totally disrespectful of what our flag represents. Canadians, compared to people of other Countries, should be proud of all the freedoms we do enjoy and while this pandemic does create some restrictions at this time it is only temporary.

Dave Halliday, Calgary

The Columbia Valley

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February 10, 2022

LETTERS

Stop saying sorry and start being responsible Dear Editor, This past weekend, I was about 10 strides into a morning skate on the Whiteway, when I was plowed over by a large dog from behind. This isn’t the first time that I have had negative encounters with dogs on the Whiteway. I have been hit by dogs, approached by aggressive dogs, jumped up on by them and had to dodge them on the path. An activity that should de- stress, caused a huge amount of stress in that moment.

This incident could have been awfulwhat if I was a child, or elderly, or had hit my head on the ice, broken a hip, had been injured badly? Dear Dog ownersdon’t you own a leash? That would have prevented this and all other incidents.

Instead you ruin my day over your inconsideration and irresponsibility. This was ...Continued “Highway” from page 3 Columbia River-Revelstoke MLA Doug Clovechok, who helped organize the meeting, explained the bighorn issue (and a similar situation for other wildlife) has been a concern for many years, and the issue of traffic safety along Highway 93 South, Highway 93/95, and Highway 95 between Golden and Radium has become an even bigger issue than it was before with TransCanada closures “People are obviously concerned,” said Clovechok. “So I was very pleased with the meeting. The representation and the senior level of the provincial staff present is a testament to the work that’s been done — and I should point out that many parties, including MOTI, have been working on this issue for a long time now — and it’s a testament to how serious the issue is.”

Clovechok said it’s a complex issue and there were “no magic bullet solutions” but it was a fulsome discussion.

He noted that MOTI is planning to employ members of local First Nations to sit on the Radium hill (a site

not an accident, accidents are beyond our control. This dog owner chose to open the car door and allow 3 dogs to run wild.

Apparently she tried to call the dog so it wouldn’t take me out, but obviously she had no control of the dog’s behaviour. She chose not to leash the dogs, and instead I get hurt. The owner was yelling “sorry” from their car, parked on the ice some 50 metres away as I lay on the ice. Stop saying sorry and start being responsible.

Leash your dogs and keep them in control to prevent hurting someone. (P.S. To the responsible dog owners: please continue to be role models in dog ownership and remind others how to do it right when you see these incidents occur.)

Christine DuBois, Windermere BC

where many sheep are hit) in cars during peak traffic seasons and monitor vehicles to help get people to slow down, and that $250,000 has already been spent developing a concept for the overpass.

“At the end of the day, it seems the overpass and the fencing, although expensive, are the best answer. Because if you keep the sheep off the highway, they’re not going to get hit,” said Clovechok. “It isn’t going to be an overnight solution. It’s a $4 million project. It will be a long road, but we’ll get there.”

He noted that aside from the bighorn sheep, eight bears had been hit and killed on local highways in the last little while.

“Wildlife management needs to be improved across B.C. And I don’t want to be partisan on that: the NDP are in power now, but when the Liberals were in charge (from 2001 to 2017) we didn’t do a good job on wildlife management either,” said Clovechok. “This place used to be called the Serengeti of the Kootenay region, and as an elk hunter I can tell you, it’s sure not the Serengeti any more.”

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

February 10, 2022

Powers of love in a modern age This year’s annual Valentine Day feature tells the story of a local couple who bucked naming norms after marrying

their many business ventures (including Columbia River Paddle and the Kinsmen Beach concession stand), through their extensive There’s a lot people will do in the name of love. And, community involvement and volunteering, for some, that includes changing their name. Usually and, perhaps most famously, through their their last name, and typically — among heterosexual paragliding school (from which Max gets his couples — it’s the woman who does the changing. Usual- popular Flying Max nickname). For a good 19 of those 20 years, locals knew them as Penny ly and typically, yes, but certainly not always.

A 2018 study by Portland State University found Powers and Max Fanderl, but after the pair that, upon marrying, an overwhelming number (more tied the knot at a small, fun wedding at their than 97 per cent) of men kept their last names exactly as new Edgewater home, surrounded by family, they were before. A few opted to hyphenate their origi- in early 2021, Max Fanderl officially became nal last name with that of their new partner or to create Max Powers.

It was a long time coming, you could say: The Powers family at Panorama Mountain Resort. Submitted photo new, combined last names. And a small number, a very small number, chose to take their wives’ last names. A the Pioneer can personally attest that Max has falls on Monday, comes exactly one year, one month, and very small number, sure, but that’s still somebody. A lot been talking about becoming Max Powers for at least the one day after Penny and Max’s wedding — so, technically of somebodies, in fact, if you broaden your scope and past eight years. And Penny assured the Pioneer that such speaking, you can still consider them ‘newlyweds’, even look across all of North America, instead of just around talk goes back a good many years before that. though they’ve been together for 20 years.

But taking Penny’s last name was more than just talk, Portland.

As with the Powers surname, when it comes to their And if you look here in the Columbia Valley, you and Max is quite happy with his new legal surname. long relationship prior marriage, Penny and Max couldn’t will indeed find couples bucking traditional naming “At the end of the day, we only have so much time have cared less about societal norms or tradition, and norms, with the husband taking the wife’s last name after in our lives. Why worry too much about something like simply did what made sense to them. marrying. Consider well-known local couple Penny and your last name? ‘Max Powers’ is fun, and it’s easy for oth“Our relationship just seemed to go from one step to Max Powers. For two decades Columbia Valley residents er people to spell correctly, so why not go with it? Why the next, quite naturally. Then the next thing you knew, have gotten to know the outdoorsy and outgoing pair — not take your wife’s name?” Max told the Pioneer. we’d been together for five or six years, we had built a “He does seem to love having the Powers name. I and their two kids, Katia, 17, and Erik, 15 — through house together, and I was pregnant. Then we had a secthink part of the reason is that he’d often have to tell ond kid. It was very clear to both of us that we as together people how to spell Fanderl two or three times before as a couple can be, and neither one of us felt a need, per they got it right. Fanderl is not really a hard name to se, to be married,” said Penny. “Our lives were pretty full spell, but people seemed to trip up on it. They even and busy, as one thing and another kept popping up. It spelled Fanderl wrong on Erik’s hockey jersey one just didn’t seem to be important to be officially married. year,” said Penny, adding that Erik, like his dad, is keen We didn’t need a certificate or a ceremony to define our to legally take the Powers last name, while Katia seems relationship.” more interested in hyphenating Powers and Fanderl toBut as the kids got older, they too started to talk gether. about a wedding. One day Erik said to Penny: ‘Mom, There are other ways in which Max and Penny have why don’t you marry Dad? He really wants to marry you chosen not to let traditional mores define their relationso much.’ ship. Next week’s Valentine’s Day for instance, which Continued on page 9...

The Powers family smiling for the camera. Submitted photo

By Steve Hubrecht steve@columbiavalleypioneer.com

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

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

February 10, 2022 “I think my dad actually said ‘Hallelujah, finally!’ when I told him,” said Penny.

The family was in flux in many different ways at the The couple first got together in 2000 or 2001 (they time: the COVID-19 pandemic was nearing the one-year can’t quite remember precisely which year). Penny was mark and widespread vaccinations had not yet started. co-owner of a ski touring and outdoor guiding company.

And the family had just moved to their new Edgewater She and her business partner hired Max on contract to house. do some website work for them.

“So we thought, why not add a bit more change on “We’d have these meetings...and I would sit there, top of it all, and get married?” said Penny. kind of zoning out, because I had zero interest in (comThey called a marriage commissioner, and the very puters or the web),” said Penny. next week got married in their own home, to the delight “I thought she simply had zero interest in me,” adds of their kids and their extended families.

Max, with a chuckle.

Some time later, Penny was keen to get into paragliding. Friends who did the sport told her she should call Max. “I thought it can’t be the Max I know. The Max I know is a computer geek,” she said, also laughing. “Turns out I was wrong: It was the Max I knew. And he wasn’t a computer geek. Or at least he wasn’t just a computer geek.”

So she reached out to him for a paragliding lesson. “Then one thing led to another,” said Penny. “We hit it off and we always seemed to have fun together.”

And they still are having fun together, even 20 years, two kids, one wedding ceremony, and one The Powers family at their Edgewater home on Max and Penny’s name change later. wedding day.

Submitted photo ...Continued “Powers” from page 8

Look up to a higher standard with our classified ads.

Pioneer Classifieds

The Columbia Valley Pioneer • 9

FRIDAY NIGHT HOCKEY! VS FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 11th @ 7:30 p.m.

INVERMERE EDDIE MOUNTAIN MEMORIAL ARENA

DISTRICT OF INVERMERE

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

Request for Quotation SUPPLY AND DELIVERY OF CRACK SEALING PROGRAM The District of Invermere (the “Owner”) invites quotations for the 2022-2026 Supply and Delivery of CRACK SEALING PROGRAM. Contract documents may be viewed at or obtained from the District of Invermere Municipal Office located at 914 - 8th Avenue, Invermere, BC, or at the District of Invermere website www.invermere.net or on the BC Bid website www.bcbid.gov. bc.ca.

Quotations shall be delivered not later than 2:00 pm local time, Tuesday, February 22nd, 2022, clearly marked SUPPLY AND DELIVERY OF CRACK SEALING PROGRAM in a sealed envelope.

Quotations received after the stipulated time will be rejected and returned to the individuals unopened. Faxed or e-mailed quotations are not acceptable and will be rejected.

N E W S PA P E R

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

The Owner reserves the right not to award a contract at all, and the lowest quote or any quote will not necessarily be accepted.

For additional information please contact Kindry Luyendyk, Corporate Officer at 250-342-9281 or corporateservices@invermere.net

10 • The Columbia Valley Pioneer

February 10, 2022

OUT OF OFFICE…

Roses are red, violets are blue Our members are our Valentines Join us to try something new Is this year a quiet Valentine’s Day just for you?

Maybe it’s a date with your special furry friend for Pal-entine’s Day. It could be a perfect day to go out with the ladies for Galentine’s Day, or to hang out with the whole crew for Friendtine’s Day. Of course, it’s the best excuse to eat treats and chocolate mid-winter and luckily for you, the Valley is full of fun stuff this Valentine’s Day. It doesn’t matter who you share it with, get out and show someone you care.

Spend February 12th at the Nordic Lantern-Lit Love Ski from 6:00pm-8:00pm.

Dress warm, bring your valentine and come to the Panorama Nordic Centre.

Spend February 13th having the most Epic Valentine’s Day inspired Caesar Sunday at The Station Pub (maybe you’ll stick around and indulge in some Superbowl snacks!)

Spend February 14th Dining Local: • From Scratch, a Mountain Kitchen – Go out for a Romantic Six-Course Dinner (make sure you reserve your spot in advance, 250-3450008). Details on the From Scratch Facebook page • Radium Brewing – Stop by to get your tickets in advance for a fancy Valentine’s Day dinner and special beer feature (Starts at 6pm).

• Begginnings - Couples and Bubbles: Fancy dinner and drinks, featuring live music 6-9pm

(reservation needed info@begginnings. com) Keep the love flowing on February 15th – Learn how to cook something new and make this virtual cooking class a date!

Columbia Valley Food and Farm is partnering with Edible Acres to teach CONTACT US you how to make TODAY AND gnocchi! www.

HAVE YOUR foodandfarm.

BUSINESS FEATURED ca

250-342-2844

February 10, 2022

cvevents cv events.ca .ca WHAT’S HAPPENING? POWERED BY THE COLUMBIA VALLEY CHAMBER

Thursday, February 10 • Cooking Class Featuring Mexican Favourites: Fresh Salsa Verde and Tortilla Chips, hosted by College of the Rockies. Join the Fun with Luz Henandez from Su Casa, $49+GST

Friday, February 11 • Radium Brewing is hosting Trivia. Doors open at 8 p.m. but be there early to get a spot for your team!

Saturday, February 12 • Nordic Lantern-Lit Love Ski. It will be a candle lit followed by an outdoor fire.

Non-passholders can get their ticket from Panorama Nordic Centre (open until 8pm the day of).

Monday, February 14 • Happy Valentine’s Day. See our list of suggested date-night activities in our editorial (previous page)

Tuesday, February 15 • Gnocchi Night: Food and Farm is hosting a virtual cooking class with Edible Acres.

Register at www.foodandfarm.ca /cooking-classes/ to learn how to make gnocchi!

Wednesday, February 16 • Think Green with the Winter Gardner 6-part program at the Invermere Community Centre. Email goundswellnetworksociety@gmail.com to register for individual sessions

WHITEWAY WINTER CHALLENGE On now until February 28 Register as a single or a team Tobycreeknordic.com/challenge

Friday, February 25 • 12-1 p.m.: Soup for Lunch. It’s back - at the Edgewater Community Hall. Take away available - bring your own thermos or jar and a container for bun and cake. $8 per person for hearty soup. If you’re masked and have proof of double vaccination, you’re welcome!

Ongoing Events

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

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

• 1:30 p.m.: OKO/Po-Keno. . $2 (plus some nickels) Senior’s Hall. Must be fully vaccinated.

• 3 p.m.: Youth Drop-In Fun. The Summit Youth Hub is back open for FREE after-school fun! Grades 7 to 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 a.m.: Momfit and Preschool Group at the Columbia Valley Centre. Proof of vaccination required for caregivers. Invermere Public Library Storytime to follow at 10:45 a.m..

• 10:30 a.m.: 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 p.m. Take Out, 5p.m. 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 to 8 p.m.: Pub Grub at the Invermere Legion, Every Friday and Saturday, Wings & Things, Pub Grub in the Branch.

• 5 p.m.: Magic the Gathering, Come for Friday Night Magic and play Magic the Gathering! 5:30 p.m. start. Entry: $10-40 depending on format. Call 250-342-3440 for details.

No registration required, but space is limited. Ages 10+.

The Columbia Valley Pioneer • 11 • 6 p.m. 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!

• 7:30 p.m.: 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.

Saturdays

• 4 to 8 p.m.: 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 p.m.: Crib. $2. Senior’s Hall. Must be fully vaccinated.

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

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

• 6 to 9 p.m. 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 to 18. Snacks and a safe space!

Tuesdays • Tech Time Thursdays: Invermere Library, 10:15am-1 pm. Radium Library 1:30 to 4 p.m.. 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 a.m. to 1 p.m. Please call the library at 250-342-6416 to book an appointment.

• 10 a.m.: Parent and Tot Connect. Family Dynamix will be running an indoor Parent and Tot Connect program for children ages 0-6. Pre-registration is required, contact mferster@fdx.family or text 250-341-8678.

• 6-10 p.m.: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 to 1:30 a.m.: 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 • The Columbia Valley Pioneer

February 10, 2022

DISTRICT OF INVERMERE

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

Request for Quotation SUPPLY AND DELIVERY OF ASPHALT PATCHING The District of Invermere (the “Owner”) invites quotations for the 2022-2026 Supply and Delivery of ASPHALT PATCHING. Contract documents may be viewed at or obtained from the District of Invermere Municipal Office located at 914 - 8th Avenue, Invermere, BC, or at the District of Invermere website www.invermere.net or on the BC Bid website www.bcbid.gov. bc.ca.

Quotations shall be delivered not later than 2 pm local time, Tuesday, February 22nd, 2022, clearly marked SUPPLY AND DELIVERY OF ASPHALT PATCHING in a sealed envelope.

DTSS student brings home junior freeride bronze

By Steve Hubrecht steve@columbiavalleypioneer.com

David Thompson Secondary School (DTSS) student Jack Kolesch came home with a bronze medal from the recent Freeride Junior World Championships in Kappl, Austria.

The Pioneer reported on Jack’s participation in the international event in the newspaper’s Jan. 27 edition, noting Jack is one of the top ranked junior (15 to 18 year old) freeride skiers in Canada, but that his focus heading into the international-level competition was simply to have fun, and, in his own words “not to go overboard and take it too seriously.”

Not too seriously, as it turns out, meant Jack grabbing the bronze, finishing third in the competition, which was held on Tuesday, Jan. 25.

Quotations received after the stipulated time will be rejected and returned to the individuals unopened. Faxed or e-mailed quotations are not acceptable and will be rejected.

The Owner reserves the right not to award a contract at all, and the lowest quote or any quote will not necessarily be accepted.

For additional information please contact Kindry Luyendyk, Corporate Officer at 250-342-9281 or corporateservices@invermere.net

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

N E W S PA P E R

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

DTSS student Jack Kolesch catches some pretty gnarly air during the Freeride Junior World Championships in Kappl, Austria.

Photo by Florian Gassner

Freeride skiing, or big mountain skiing, sees skiers ripping down steep mountains with natural snow cover and conditions. Skiers choose their own line down the terrain, skiing hard and fast and dropping off cliffs or other obstacles as they go. The skiers earn a score from judges who assess how hard the chosen line was and how well the skier skied it.

“It was a pretty crazy experience,” Jack told the Pioneer, upon arriving back in the Columbia Valley on Tuesday, Feb. 1.

Jack was the 14th of 30 skiers to head down the mountain face at Kappl and said that while standing in the starting gate “I had no big expectations in terms of placement. I just wanted to lay down a big line and have a blast.”

He did have a blast. And he did indeed lay down a big line.

“I ended up going quite a bit bigger than I planned on my bottom air, but I landed it. I was over-the-moon excited skiing into the finishing corral,” said Jack.

Jack has competed on the junior North American freeride circuit for a number of years, but this was his first time at the world championships and his first competitive event outside of North America, so several facets of this competition were new to him.

“In North America you are allowed to physically inspect the course beforehand. You can’t ski your line as you would in the competition, but you can go down it and check out the drops, and the landings, to see them up close,” said Jack. “In Europe you can only look at the course from a distance with binoculars before the event.”

Continued on page 14...

Fairmont Hot Springs Resort is turning up the heat with a romantic Valentine’s Day celebration Treat your Valentine to a 4-Course dinner at Antlers at the Lodge Saturday, February 12 to Monday, February 14, 2022 | 6:00pm - 8:30pm Call 250.345.6070 to book your dining reservation. Reservations required.

Want a sneak peak at the menu? Check out our website at fairmonthotsprings.com

February 10, 2022

The Columbia Valley Pioneer • 13

Sponsored Content

Ullr Bar to hold Slow and Shi**y Service night for charity “This event is not for the faint of heart”

By Haley Grinder Local Journalism Initiative Reporter Ullr bar will be bringing a unique twist to the traditional dining experience later this month. The special event, held on Feb. 26 at 8 p.m., is dubbed “Slow and S*%&@# Service Night,” with the goal of letting off some built-up steam in a safe and fun environment all while raising money for the Mountain of Hope Society.

The Columbia Valley knows Ullr Bar well. Its signature axe shaped door handles, viking helmets, and Nordic-themed hand-crafted cocktails have rendered them a staple within the community, only elevated by their indoor sanctuary laced with greenery and lights— a scene just magical enough to teleport each guest back to a simpler time. A time laced with communal victories shared over a cold pint, served by some of the best of the best.

This will be the first time Ullr hosts the Slow and S*%&@# Service Night, taking their beloved guests and team of expert servers and bartenders on a journey to a less-than-traditional night out. It couldn’t come at a better time either with tensions reaching an all time high as the ongoing global pandemic enters into its third year. Ullr will provide a safe space to release some stress while raising money for a bigger cause.

The event will be held by reservation only, to ensure that all those attending are prepared for the potentially offensive hilarity that will no doubt ensue. It is also to safeguard those walking in off the street from stepping into something they may not be prepared for.

“There’s going to be swearing.

There’s going to be off-kilter jokes.

You’re probably going to get made fun of, but none of this is supposed to be aggressive. We don’t want anybody with hurt feelings,” says Richard Matthews, Owner and Events Coordinator for Ullr Bar. “The main goal for us is for everybody to blow off a little bit of steam and have a little bit of

fun. And more than anything, raise money for people in need in our community,” adds Matthews. “The idea is that you take a little bit of abuse so someone else gets the help that they need.”

The cover fee will be $20, to be paid upon reservation, with 100 per cent of proceeds going directly to the Mountain of Hope Society, a nonprofit organization that is dedicated to lending anonymous financial help to those in times of desperation. The society has been on hiatus for approximately the last two years, due to COVID-19 regulations and lack of public fundraising opportunities. Now, they are actively working to help inneed Columbia Valley residents, which encompasses the area between Spillimacheen and Canal Flats, including the two local Indigenous bands, Shuswap and Akisqnuk.

Ullr Bar will be posting

swear jars in the center of each table for the event, with the idea that if staff members catch you swearing, money goes into the jar- a dangerously fruitful concept, considering they will also be encouraging such offensive wordplay throughout the evening.

Ullr didn’t stop there either. The establishment has also created a specialty “offensive” menu for the event, offering offensive drinks, food items, or even a custom made dunce cap for anyone wanting to embarrass a friend, total stranger, or even themselves. Offensive song requests or movie clips can also be purchased and dedicated to guests of your choosing. All proceeds from the swear jars and offensive menus will also be donated to Mountain of Hope Society.

Although they are keeping it under wraps exactly what an “offensive food” might mean, Matthews did hint that, “there may be different shaped baked goods. Nothing harmful, but just something of a comedic value.”

If the profane language and embarrassment seems like too much for you, don’t fret. There is still a way to participate in the event through means of their exclusive “golden ticket.” For an extravagant fee of course, the ticket ensures your safety throughout the evening, void of all forms of abuse. “If there’s somebody at your table that really doesn’t want to be a part of it, or just wants to be treated like royalty, this is your golden way out,” says Matthews, adding that there are only a select few available.

There will also be three “celebrity servers” present at the event, Cory Archer, Angelika Weder, and Ian Solo, all of whom are local to the Columbia Valley and well known within the hospitality industry to guests and staff alike. Specific servers can be requested upon reservation, however, they will be honoured on a first come, first serve basis.

For those interested in attending, email info@ullrbar.com to reserve your table as soon as possible. Attendees are encouraged to bring cash, a positive attitude, and a thick skin.

14 • The Columbia Valley Pioneer

February 10, 2022 ...Continued “Freeride” from page 12

Wilmer Community Club

Annual General Meeting

This virtual event will take place via ZOOM on February 15th, 2022, 7 pm.

Email wilmerhall99@outlook.com to RSVP.

CHILDREN/YOUTH’S GRIEF AND LOSS SUPPORT GROUP Hospice Society of the Columbia Valley is offering a NEW Children/Youth Support Group Using the Rainbows International Program model the course is designed to provide support to young people as they navigate grief and heal from loss, whether from death, divorce/separation, move, or other challenges.rainbows.org The free 12-week program will cover topics such as understanding feelings, exploring the ‘why my family’ questions, developing positive coping skills, and helping others.

Each group will be age appropriate and be guided by two trained and qualified facilitators. The first group is scheduled to start on Tuesday, March 8th at 3:30 pm. Pre-registration is required by February 28th.

Please contact Amy at 250-280-3091 for more information, contact her at alange@telus.net or drop in the office at #103- 926-7 Avenue Invermere.

www.hospicesocietycv.com DISTRICT OF INVERMERE

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

Request for Quotation SUPPLY AND DELIVERY OF ROAD LINE PAINTING The District of Invermere (the “Owner”) invites quotations for the 2022-2026 Supply and Delivery of ROAD LINE PAINTING. Contract documents may be viewed at or obtained from the District of Invermere Municipal Office located at 914 - 8th Avenue, Invermere, BC, or at the District of Invermere website www.invermere.net or on the BC Bid website www.bcbid.gov. bc.ca.

Quotations shall be delivered not later than 2 pm local time, Tuesday, February 22nd, 2022, clearly marked SUPPLY AND DELIVERY OF ROAD LINE PAINTING in a sealed envelope.

Quotations received after the stipulated time will be rejected and returned to the individuals unopened. Faxed or e-mailed quotations are not acceptable and will be rejected.

The Owner reserves the right not to award a contract at all, and the lowest quote or any quote will not necessarily be accepted.

For additional information please contact Kindry Luyendyk, Corporate Officer at 250-342-9281 or corporateservices@invermere.net

“It’s kind of neat the way they do that,” Jack adds.

“I really enjoyed how it meant that you just have to get up there (at the start gate) and go, take it as it comes, without overthinking everything too much beforehand.”

Another thing that differs in European freeride competitions, as compared with North American ones, is that in North American events, all skiers must wait around a few hours to get their scores, while in European events, skiers wait just a minute or two in the Jack Kolesch (far right) on the podium as the bronze medal finishing corral while their results are tabulated.

“So you know right away how you did, and where winner at the Freeride Junior World Championships in Kappl, Submitted photo you placed. It definitely makes things a bit more ex- Austria. citing when you’re there at the finish line,” said Jack.

The moment was a sweet one for Jack.

“One of my good friends on the circuit had gone earlier “It’s surreal, and the support from everybody was, in the race, and he had been in first place after his run. and continues to be, overwhelming,” he said. “The whole By the time it was my turn to go, a few other skiers had experience was just amazing. The venue was crazy. It was done better than him, so he was bumped down. It just a lot bigger, the run was longer, the features (cliffs and adds another element to the whole event.” other obstacles) were larger. The snow wasn’t the best; it Jack knew his run had gone well as he finished — his was very sun-affected, but at least soft. But, all in all, it coach was watching the event from a nearby hill and ran was very burly. A lot of big cliffs, a lot of exposure. It was down to the finishing corral to hug Jack — but he wasn’t definitely the coolest venue I’ve ever skied.” sure exactly how well.

To make allowances for possible bad weather, the “When I got the score, I realized it was the highest competition was scheduled for almost a week, even score of the day so far. I was in first place at that point. though not all that time was needed. When the weather I couldn’t believe it,” he said. “It was wild. I was just so was good, and the competition was completed right off surprised.” the bat, the freeriders were given the rest of the time to Jack had skied 14th out of 30 freeriders. There were just go have fun and ski as a group. still 16 more to go. Would any of them get a better score “That was great. I just got to rip with my coachthan him? es, teammates and some friends who were on some of As they went, it turned out that two of them did. the other national teams. It was fun, especially in EuJack, a good sportsman if ever there was one, was quick rope where you have these big, big resorts. Nothing is to tell the Pioneer, “they did ski better than me. They de- closed, you just go wherever you want. The terrain is served to finish ahead of me.” mind-blowing,” said Jack. “Wild, rocky mountain faces By the time 28 skiers had finished, and there were that in North America would certainly be out of bounds just two left, “it suddenly sunk in to me that even if these are open and you can ski them. Obviously you have to be last two skiers did a better job than me, the worse I could careful, but still, they are in-bounds.” do was fifth place.”

For now, Jack is back to DTSS and will be finishing The second-last skier went, and did decently, but not the North American freeride competition circuit, before quite as well as Jack. Then the last skier went and had an heading to the North American Junior Freeride Champiissue with landing one of his big airs, which was sure to onships in Big Sky, Montana in April. result in the judges deducting points from his score.

Jack is 17 years old, and so still has one more year “As soon as I saw that I thought ‘Oh my goodness, of junior freeride eligibility, which he plans to use next I’m actually going to finish third. I’m going to get a med- winter when he is 18, with hopes of heading back to the al.’ I thought that right away, but it took a moment for it next Freeride Junior World Championships. to settle in that this is the world championships, and I’m “It was the trip of a lifetime. I’d love to get back top three in the whole world,” said Jack. there,” he said.

Village of Radium Hot Springs

ZONING BYLAW

UPDATE

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

What Is A Zoning Bylaw?

Virtual Presentation and Q&A Event – A live

How To Get Involved

To join online,register at: www.radiumzoningbylaw.eventbrite.ca

A Zoning Bylaw is a set of specific rules that regulates how land, buildings and other structures can be used. The Bylaw was adopted in 2007 and needs to be modernized to improve clarity and make it relevant to the issues and needs of Radium Hot Springs residents today.

Open House Walk-Through - The Village is hosting an in-person open house with your health and safety in mind.

Poster boards outlining proposed bylaw changes will be set up at the Radium Hot Spring Centre and you will be able to view them by walking through the main hall over the 3-day open house. We want to hear from you regarding the proposed changes to the Zoning Bylaw. A paper and online survey will be available for you to submit your input.

Where? Radium Hot Springs Centre (Main Hall) 4863 Stanley Street When? February 15th - 17th (1pm - 4pm)

virtual presentation about the Zoning Bylaw update will be held with a question-and-answer period. This live event is a chance to ask any questions you have about the Zoning Bylaw update. Join us online or attend the live screening of the presentation at Radium Hot Springs Centre.

Where? Online event (Zoom) When? February 17th (1pm - 2:30pm) Don’t do Zoom? Attend the live in-person screening of the virtual presentation at Radium Hot Springs Centre (Main Hall), 4863 Stanley Street.

Due to COVID-19 organized gathering restrictions, this in-person event will have limited capacity (max 50 people).

For more information, please visit www.radiumhotsprings.ca

February 10, 2022

The Columbia Valley Pioneer • 15

HERE TO SERVE YOU SERVICES

SERVICES

SERVICE EXCELLENCE IN THE COLUMBIA VALLEY

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

We give all students 15% off with valid student ID

North American Warranty All Makes and Models

Sales ~ Service ~ Installation

UNIVERSAL DOORS & EXTERIORS Arnold Scheffer 250-342-6700

Tire Sales and Installation

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

unidoorext@live.ca • unidoorext.ca

Industrial ~ Commercial ~ Residential

WINDOW COVERINGS SHOWROOM

Beat the fall rush ~ clean your Chimney this spring!

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

CLEANING & MAINTENANCE ON ALL WOOD BURNING APPLIANCES • WETT INSPECTIONS

• • • •

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

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

KITCHEN CABINETS & COUNTER TOPS

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

Scott Postlethwaite

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

Free Estimates

invermereelectric@gmail.com

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

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!

LANDSCAPING

(Servicing the Valley since 1999)

NEW SEWER CAMERA

• • •

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

Tree Removal Stump Grinding FireSmart Treatmemts Certified. Insured. WCB Coverage

Enjoy life, we’ll clean it up!

• Carpets dry in 1 hour • Environmentally friendly products • Disinfectant kills COVID-19 • Fresh clean scent – no steam • Area rugs and upholstery • Protector • 100% guarantee • Prompt reliable service

GOLDEN, BC 250-344-0188

Call NOW:

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

INSURANCE

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

CARPET CLEANING

C E R T I F I E D TreeT Pruning REE EXPERTS

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

•

250-347-9803

THE COLUMBIA VALLEY’S CHOICE FOR

WINDERMERE, BC 250-341-7029

• Septic Tank Pumping • Portable Toilet Rentals

250-688-0213

Visit www.heavensbest.com for more information

INSURANCE

TILE AND GROUT CLEANING INSURANCE AGENCIES LTD.

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

www.kootenayinsurance.ca

BOX 2228 742 - 13th STREET INVERMERE, BC V0A 1K0

BOX 459 7553 MAIN STREET RADIUM HOT SPRINGS, BC V0A 1M0

P: 250-342-3031 F: 250-342-6945 info@lambertinsurance.ca

P: 250-347-9350 F: 250-347-6350 TOLL FREE: 1-866-342-3031

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

N E W S PA P E R

Business: 250-342-9692

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

Cell: 250-342-1273

ptarmiganrugclean@gmail.com

Please recycle this newspaper

16 • The Columbia Valley Pioneer

February 10, 2022

HERE TO SERVE YOU CONCRETE

CONCRETE

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

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

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

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

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

I N

P U R S U I T

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

Office: 250-342-6500 • Toll Free: 1-888-341-2221

SERVICES Your Weekly Source for News and Events

Where to recycle?

Can this be recycled?

N E W S PA P E R

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

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.

Tannis Hartwig, B.Sc. www.rcbc.ca (Pharm.)., 1301 - 7th Avenue, Invermere Laura Kipp, Pharm D.

250-342-6612

Your Compounding Pharmacy Recycling council of B.c. MeMBeR

#8, 1008 - 8th Avenue Check the BC RECYCLEpEdia PO Box 868, Invermere, B.C. V0A 1K0 www.rcbc.ca Ph: 250-341-6299 ext: 102

Lerissa Cell: 506-261-1861 McLaughlin www.columbiavalleypioneer.com Recycling council of B.c. MeMBeR

Recycling council of B.c. MeMBeR

Sales Representative

CONTRACTING

CONTRACTING

Kekuli Bay Cabinetry

Richard Vernon – Master Plumber & Gasfitter

lerissa@columbiavalleypioneer.com

CONTRACTING

Recycle? Yes or no?

Get the BC ReCYClepedia app 250-688-4868

BROAD

ST

kekulibaycabinetry.com Recycling questions?

BC RECYCLING HOTLINE 604-732-9253 1-800-667-4321

• 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.

SERVICES

LAMBERT-KIPP Where to (2019) LTD. PHARMACY recycle?

O F

PLUMBI N G

• Trusses • Engineered Floors • Wall Panels

LTD

Tel: 250.341.6075 Fax: 250.341.3427 Email: info@duskbuildingsystems.com www.rcbc.ca rvbroadstreet@gmail.com broadstreetplumbing.com Recycling council of B.c.

MeMBeR www.duskbuildingsystems.com

&CON T R A C T I N G

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

Recycling council of B.c. MeMBeR

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

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

Pioneer Classifieds Call: 250-341-6299

We also offer roundthe-clock service calls.

They work!

February 10, 2022

The Columbia Valley Pioneer • 17

P ioneer C lassifieds S

OBITUARY

S

Mackay, Rose-Marie It is with heartfelt sadness that we announce the sudden passing of Rose-Marie on January 28th, 2022.

Rose-Marie was predeceased by her husband, Daniel Mackay, and her father, Gordon Larrabee.

She will be forever missed by her three sons Dane, Adrian (Tabitha), and Colin, as well as her six grandchildren, Taylor (Colin), Zoey, Deegan, Lorelei, Annora, and Carmondy, her two great grandchildren, Clara and Odin, her mother, Maryanne Larrabee, sister Deenie (Greg), brother Roland (Wendy) and numerous nieces and nephews.

We will forever remember Rose Marie’s beautiful smiling face, her loving heart, and her nurturing soul.

Due to the current situation a service will be held with immediate family only.

Gagne, Michel ‘Mimi’ Peacefully and surrounded by his loving family, Michel ‘Mimi’ Gagne passed away at Chinook Regional Hospital in Lethbridge, Alberta on January 21st, 2022 at the young age of 46. He was a bright spark in this world and will be deeply missed by many.

He was born in Montreal, Quebec, the youngest child of Paul and Rosanne Gagne. Growing up in Cranbrook, BC and later moving to Invermere, BC, he stole many hearts with his blonde curls, bright blue eyes and mischievous grin.

He was a kind and gentle soul, making friends wherever he went. His easygoing nature, kind smile, great laugh and fearless sense of adventure made it impossible not to love him.

After graduation he worked for many years alongside his father in the logging industry. He took great pride in his work and looked forward to eventually taking over the reigns of the family business.

He loved the outdoors, spending every free moment with friends and family doing the many things he loved which included camping, fishing, quadding, skiing, travelling, playing hockey, chopping firewood, boating on the lake and much more.

In 2009, he moved to Fort MacLeod, Alberta where he was affectionately nicknamed ‘Little Mikey’ by his many friends. He worked for a short time at the Queen’s Hotel and then made his way up North to work in a logging camp with his dad.

Over the years, Mimi fought a long and valiant battle with numerous illnesses including addiction.

He will be lovingly remembered for his big heart, bright smile and infectious laugh.

Mimi will be painfully missed by his parents Paul and Rosanne Gagne, his sister Joyce (Dale) McMurray, his nephews Daven and Caden McMurray and his many extended family and friends.

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

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

OBITUARY

ANNOUNCEMENT

ANNOUNCEMENT

Doris Albertha Willson (nee Hynes) June 21, 1928 January 13, 2022

Alcoholics Anonymous. If alcohol is causing problems or conflict in your life, AA can help. All meetings are at 8 p.m. Columbia United AA, Invermere: Saturday, Sunday, Tuesday and Wednesday at the BC Service Building, South End – 624 4th St., Invermere.

Please call 250-342-2424 for more 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.

A member of the Columbia Valley pioneering Hynes family.

Leaves behind her husband of 76 years, Gerald Willson, and children Diane Steinmeier, Lyle Willson, and Marlene Hill.

S OBITUARY S Mennear, Ruth 1958 – 2022

Ruth Ellen Mennear passed away peacefully, surrounded by her loved ones at Red Deer, on Saturday, January 22, 2022 at the age of 63 years.

Ruth was born April 10, 1958 in Vancouver, British Columbia.

Ruth spent her early years in Rossland, British Columbia, later moving to Edmonton, Alberta, where she met the late Daniel Mennear, who she wed in 1981. Together, they had two daughters, both born in Sundre, Alberta and eventually settled in Invermere, British Columbia in 1988, where they raised their family and purchased a local Grocery Store.

Ruth went on to meet her best friend and love, Joey Adamowski, who she has spent the last twenty-five years with. Ruth and Joey spent many years in Golden, British Columbia, and recently relocated to Stettler, Alberta to be closer to their grandchildren.

During her lifetime, Ruth enjoyed travelling, camping, shopping and spending time with her grandchildren. Ruth will be fondly remembered for her infectious smile, sense of humor, positive attitude and appreciation for the simple things in life. Ruth will be lovingly remembered by her spouse, Joey Adamowski, her daughters, Nicole Mennear (Cory Jasper) and Danielle Peterson (Steven), her step daughters, Mandy Cummings (Jamie) and Chelsey Adamowski, her grandchildren, Hailey Peterson, Jordyn Peterson and Denton Peterson and her parents, Jackie and Bernard ‘Bugs’ Stanley and her dear friend, Judy Anderson. She will also be deeply missed by her siblings, Glen Stanley (Sharel), Char McIntosh, Richard Cuff, Steven Kinsman (Johanna), Rita Williams and Rose Mason, her mother-in-law, Mary Adamowski, her sisters-in-law, Marge Knowlton (Bruce), Ezzy Winters (Craig) and Mary Ellen Parsons (Kelly), her brother in-law, Bill Adamowski; as well as numerous nieces and nephews. Ruth was predeceased by her mother and father-in-law, Lorraine and Cliffton Mennear, her father-in-law, Joe Adamowski, her brothers, Richard and Gary Stanley, a brother-in-law, Cam McIntosh and a brother, Ron Cuff.

If desired, Memorial Donations in Ruth’s honor may be made directly to the Kidney Foundation, Southern Alberta Branch, 6007 - 1A Street SW, Calgary, Alberta, T2H 0G5 or to www. kidney.ca. A Memorial Service will be held at a later date.

Condolences, memories and photos may be shared and viewed at www.heartlandfuneralservices.com. Arrangements in care of: Heartland Funeral Services Ltd. 4415 – 49 Street, Innisfail, Alberta Phone: 403-227-0006 • Fax: 403-227-6437

Pioneer Classified Advertising 250-341-6299

LOST/STOLEN Men’s 21 speed bike, bright yellow, medium frame, no fenders, soft seat. Only means of transport! I need it back! Call Ken 250-341-1956

CHEERS WITHOUT TEARS Cheers to Lindsay at Copper City Physical Therapy for the professional way you treat your patients. You did an awesome job with my knee.

Cheers to Bylaw Officer Kent Kebe for your efforts in protecting the sheep herd in Radium. We see you on the mile hill with your lights flashing, trying to warn motorists of the sheep. Keep up the good work!

Cheers to The Trading Post- what a pleasure to shop in your store.

Cheers to Rob at The Valley Peak.

It’s a refreshing pleasure to read your local paper every week.

Keep up the good work.

Cheers to our community newspaper staff for their excellent work on reporting the stories that matter to local residents and visitors. The recent edition prominently featured profiles about aspiring Olympic athletes who make this Valley their home. In addition, there were thoughtfully written articles about civic matters, minor sports, businesses, and current events: as well as a wonderful tribute to a muchloved, community leader. For 25 years, our family has relied upon - and supports - local journalism.

Keep up the good work.

CHEERS WITHOUT TEARS Cheers to CV Chamber for offering the Great Gift Card Sale.

What a good program to support local business. Way to go!

Cheers to Bonnie at Peacock Silk Screening and Embroidery!

Another long time local businesswoman that goes above and beyond. She stayed late a week ago to get an unexpected rush job done for me and I truly appreciate her help!

A great big giant cheers to Dee at Palliser Printing! I needed an over 400 page document printed and not only did she do so at a truly reasonable price, she hole-punched it and put it in a binder for me! Those few extra steps, taken unasked for, made my day so much brighter! Our local community is our heart and soul... and people like Dee (and businesses like Palliser Printing) are vital to keeping our community strong.

Cheers to Ali at Gemstones for providing great customer service.

Cheers to the holy Westside Road. Who knew we could be blessed with so many holes on one stretch of road.

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

18 • The Columbia Valley Pioneer

February 10, 2022

CHEERS WITHOUT TEARS

SERVICES

HELP WANTED

Huge Cheers to Home Hardware Al, Tim and the team. Recently on a Friday night 10 minutes before the store closed. My vehicle left me stranded in the Home Hardware parking lot.

Fortunately I live close by and Tim came to my rescue and provided me and my dog a ride home to obtain another set of keys and a ride back to the store to pickup my vehicle.

THE HEARTFELT COMPANION: Services for Seniors Since 2014 we’ve provided kind and compassionate non-medical care, transportation to Cranbrook, overnight care, meal prep, grocery shopping and more.

Excellent local references.

250-341-5683 .

Heartfeltcompanionservices. 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

LOST AND FOUND

HELP WANTED

Dainty ladies gold and diamond ring found at Fairmont Transfer Sta, Jan. 15/22. Call 250-3454554 to describe and claim.

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

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

Dreaming of Summer?

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

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

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

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 250-6882897.

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

The individual hired will be responsible for: • Society and community records management • Communications and events management • Book-keeping and financial records management

Send resume or inquiries to info@timberridgebc.ca

Geoff Hill PREC* REALTOR® Fair Realty

250-341-7600

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

Box 159, 8866 Grainger Rd., Canal Flats, B.C. V0B 1B0 Phone: 250-349-5462 • Fax: 250-349-5460 • village@canalflats.ca

Please email classified ads to

Public Works Manager

info@columbiavalleypioneer.com

The Village of Canal Flats is located between the Kootenay River to the south and Columbia Lake to the north in the beautiful Columbia Valley, B.C. The mountains, rivers, and lakes surrounding the community create a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts.

MISC. FOR SALE For Sale: Power Seat Massager – Total back massaging system.

Use at home, office or car. Comes with A/C-Auto adapter and controller. $40. 250-341-6299 ext. 104.

The Timber Ridge Community Association is seeking to hire a

Those who choose to live and work here enjoy a wide variety of outdoor activities, as well as proximity to world class skiing, golf, and trail amenities as well as the larger centre of Cranbrook, BC. If you seek opportunity, where you can build your career and be proud to be part of the community you call home, Canal Flats awaits!

Brainard Custom Contracting is growing again!

We are hiring for Skilled Labourers / Journeymen Carpenters to join our team. Now is your chance to join a local company, right here in the Columbia Valley! Wages will be negotiated depending on experience.

• • • • •

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

What you need to Offer US: • Must be reliable and respect hard work • Must want to be part of a team and have a great attitude • Must have own vehicle for work within the Columbia Valley Please email list of qualifications to BrainardCustom@gmail.com or call 250-341-7421.

Have questions? Ask! We look forward to working with you!

The municipality seeks a new Public Works Manager to lead a crew of two dedicated full-time employees, to operate and maintain: • • • •

A water distribution system; A sewage collection, treatment and disposal system; An extensive road, sidewalk, and developing pathway network; A community cemetery;

The ideal candidate will have an extensive public works or related private-sector background; post-secondary education in a related field; and experience with budgeting, project planning and management. Formal education in civil technology or engineering and/or EOCP (or equivalent) certification would be an asset.

Reporting to Canal Flats’ Chief Administrative Officer, the Manager will be an integral part of a Senior Management team aimed at fulfilling Council’s goals and priorities as defined by policy and bylaw.

If you have a proven record of contributing to a positive working environment, the best part of your job is working with people to achieve significant results, you enjoy life in a small rural town, and the outdoors is your natural playground, then this opportunity is for you!

To be considered for this excellent opportunity, please send your cover letter and resume (PDFs preferred) to Adrian Bergles at cao@canalflats.ca. Applications, including three references from your work life, will be received until February 14, 2022.

We thank all interested individuals for their applications for this position; however, only those selected for an interview will be contacted.

Please recycle this newspaper

February 10, 2022

The Columbia Valley Pioneer • 19

Panorama alpine racer did not finish tough Olympic giant slalom course

By Steve Hubrecht steve@columbiavalleypioneer.com There was no podium for Panorama alpine ski racer Cassidy Gray in the women’s giant slalom (GS) at the Beijing Olympics earlier this week.

Gray caught an edge early in her race, resulting in a DNF (did not finish) for her in the first fun of the GS on Monday, Feb. 7.

The Pioneer was unable to contact Gray in China for her reaction to the result, but she was one of quite a few skiers who were disqualified during the women’s GS (in total, 19 of the 80 women to ski at least one of the two runs in the GS ended with a DNF) on the course known

as the Ice River at the Yanqing National Alpine Skiing before the paper was distributed in the Columbia Valley).

Centre, which is roughly 100 kilometres northwest of Windermere ski cross racer Courtney Hoffos will take Beijing. part in the women’s ski cross on Thursday, Feb. 17.

Gray’s fellow Canadian teammate Valerie Grenier also ended with a DNF after catching her hand on a gate and then missing the following gate, quite close to the finish line. The defending 2018 Olympic women’s GS champion, American Mikaela Shiffrin also was disqualified, sliding out and missing a gate just a few turns into her first run.

Gray will ski again on Saturday Feb. 19 as part of the parallel mixed team event. Invermere alpine race Amelia was scheduled to race in the women’s slalom Panorama alpine racer Cassidy Gray charfes down the slopes of on Wednesday Feb. 9 (after Pioneer press deadline, but Kranjska Gora, Slovenia.

Photo by GEPA

SALES ASSOCIATES Box 159, 8866 Grainger Rd., Canal Flats, B.C. V0B 1B0 Phone: 250-349-5462 • Fax: 250-349-5460 • village@canalflats.ca

CHIEF ADMINISTRATIVE OFFICER “Why Canal Flats?”

Canal Flats is an innovative village on the rise, situated at the headwaters of the Columbia River, in scenic Columbia Valley. Incorporated in 2004 and home to approximately 700 people, the village is located in the Kootenay Region, one hour north of Cranbrook and the Canadian Rockies International Airport. Additionally the village is situated between Columbia Lake and the Kootenay River, surrounded by crown land, making it home to world class recreation for outdoor enthusiasts.

The village is seeking an enthusiastic professional Chief Administrative Officer capable of working with Council to continue its amazing journey in reaching this community’s full potential as one of the most upcoming, vibrant, innovative places in western Canada.

This is a very exciting time for the village, which has seen substantial investment and development, even receiving honourable mention from the UBCM for Excellence in Governance for its Official Community Plan, and Zoning Bylaw in 2019.

Poised for substantial growth over the next few years, our community is seeking a strong team player with great communication skills, a willingness to champion new growth, positive change, community spirit, and coordinate the team of dedicated staff.

This role will require the CAO to provide strategic guidance and professional advice to council.

Additionally to support Council in developing, as well as implementing policy, and strategic objectives that address the current and future needs of the village. The CAO will also need to have balanced skills to interact with staff on an operational basis, and residents. This is a full-time permanent position which also includes the responsibility of Director of Finance, and Approving Officer with internal supports and the ability to delegate these responsibilities as budget allows.

A wide range of educational and professional backgrounds will be considered; however the ideal candidate will have: • • • • • • • • •

A degree in Business Administration, Public Administration, or related area.

A senior certificate awarded by the board of examiners, or a willingness to complete a certificate in Local Government Service Delivery from a recognised post secondary institute within 24 months of employment.

Minimum of three to five years in progressively more responsible leadership roles in municipal government, or an equivalent combination of education, training and experience.

Experience with long term strategic planning, the ability to identify opportunities and emerging trends in sustainable growth management.

Excellent proven interpersonal and communication skills to interact with the community, council, staff, as well as other levels of government.

Business acumen, sound comprehension of financial management; statements, reporting, and budgets.

Strong leadership, and human resource skills.

Ability to manage complex and diverse projects General experience and skills in a wide variety of local government responsibilities.

In return we offer the opportunity to be a key part of this high profile emerging community with a competitive salary, a thirty five hour work week, and comprehensive benefit plan.

Interested individuals are encouraged to submit a cover letter and resume, in confidence by February 28.2022. We would like to thank all applicants, however, only those applicants selected for an interview will be contacted.

Karl Sterzer, Mayor The Village of Canal Flats 8866 Grainger Road PO. Box 159 Canal Flats, BC V0B 1B0 ksbcgov@icloud.com.

POSITIONS AVAILABLE

At the Liquor Distribution Branch (LDB) our vision of ‘Service. Relationships. Results.’ is all about providing a valued service, building strong relationships with our stakeholders, and achieving greater results for the province.

The LDB is one of two branches of government responsible for the cannabis and liquor industry of B.C. We operate the wholesale distribution of beverage alcohol within the province, as well as the household retail brand of BC Liquor Stores.

We employ nearly 5,000 people in over 200 communities and have been named one of BC’s Top Employers 13 times over for offering exceptional places to work rooted in values of fairness and respect, work-life balance, and inclusion and diversity. We believe that our people are our greatest asset. Being a reputable employer with programs of skills training and professional development are what attract candidates to BC Liquor Stores, while our progressive, forward-thinking culture is why employees with a growth mindset thrive.

Auxiliary positions are on-call, meaning hours of work are not guaranteed and subject to availability. Some auxiliary employees may not initially work a full 35-hour week, but with more hours worked and more seniority gained, more opportunities for more hours of work will follow.

Auxiliary positions are not permanent full-time but can lead to permanent full-time opportunities with a very competitive total compensation package, including a comprehensive pension plan, medical and dental coverage (including massage and physiotherapy), tuition reimbursement and scholarship programs, and access to public service employee benefits including career support services, financial and legal services, and employee and family counselling.

We are dedicated to the highest quality of customer service, delivered with friendliness, individual pride, initiative, and retail passion! If you fit this description and you are prepared to work in a fast-paced environment, we encourage you to apply to become a part of the Invermere BC Liquor Store.

To be eligible, applicants must meet the following qualification requirements: • Be able to legally work in Canada • Be able to provide excellent customer service • Be able to communicate effectively and professionally with the public • Be able to demonstrate aptitude for cashier and related duties, including calculations • Be able to perform physically demanding work, including lifting 20-25 kg boxes • Have a valid Serving It Right Certificate™ • A Criminal Record Check is required.

BC Liquor Store Sales Associates may be required to operate a variety of mechanical and hand-operated equipment, in addition to handling large volumes of bottles as part of the LDB’s recycling program.

Rate of Pay (as of April 11, 2021): Auxiliary Sales Associate - $19.45 per hour.

For exciting and challenging retail opportunities, please apply online at: http://bcliquorstores.prevueaps.ca/pages/openings/ Or apply in person at: 510 13th Street, Invermere, BC On November 1, 2021 the BC Public Service announced the COVID-19 Vaccination Policy that defines the conditions and expectations for BC Public Service employees regarding vaccination against COVID-19. Among other possible measures, proof of vaccination will be required by November 22, 2021. It is a term of acceptance of employment that you agree to comply with all vaccination requirements that apply to the public service.

More information can be found here: https://www2.gov.bc.ca/gov/content/careers-myhr/ all-employees/safety-health-well-being/health/covid-19/covid-19-vaccination-policyfor-bc-public-service-employees

20 • The Columbia Valley Pioneer

FAITH

February 10, 2022

Night prayers

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 Sunday Services, 10:30 a.m., are currently online only, using Zoom. To access the zoom link, please visit our website at wvsm.ca.

Or call 250-342-6644 to leave a message.

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 p.m.

Canadian Martyrs, Invermere: Saturday 5 p.m., Sunday 9 a.m.

St. Joseph, Radium: Sunday 11:00 a.m.

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 lutheranstpeter@gmail.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 250-439-9041 The Columbia Valley Pioneer presents the winner of…

Pet Photo Contest Congratulations to Melissa Lynn Appleby and her pooch!

You’ve won $50 to the local pet supply store of your choosing. Please contact the Pioneer to claim your prize.

N E W S PA P E R

Phone: (250) 341-6299 info@columbiavalleypioneer.com www.columbiavalleypioneer.com

By Pastor Murray Wittke Valley Christian Assembly I’ve always loved nighttime.

The stillness and quiet after midnight is perfect for reading, thinking and prayer. But the last couple years have made nights difficult and sleep elusive.

All too often I lay awake in the dark, worrying over the future or regretting the past.

Darkness somehow amplifies anxiety and grief. Melatonin helps. But many nights I’m up late reading or staring at a screen unable to sleep. I know I could use the wee hours of the night for spiritual pursuits but it’s easier to zone out online. A good night’s sleep would be delightful.

Sometime last year I heard Tish Harrison Warren, a priest in the Anglican Church in North America, interviewed about her new book, Prayer in the Night. Encouraged by her story I sought out The Anglican Book

of Common Prayer and memorized the prayer that helped her trust God in the dark.

It goes like this, “Keep watch, dear Lord, with those who work or watch or weep this night, and give your angels charge over those who sleep. Tend the sick, Lord Christ; give rest to the weary, bless the dying, soothe the suffering, pity the afflicted, shield the joyous; and all for your love’s sake. Amen.”

At first praying for someone else’s words felt awkward. Prayer for me has always involved talking to God in my own words. My prayers tend to be spontaneous, wordy and rambling. But, in the middle of the night when words just won’t come and I’m up pacing around the house, sighing and staring into the darkness I’m grateful for this gift of words.

I’ve been praying this prayer for a while now and I’ve found it calms and focuses my mind. Each night as I lay in the dark and say these words the faces of folks I care for come to mind and I drift off to sleep with a smile. If your nights are difficult and sleep remains elusive, pray this ancient prayer at bedtime and rest in peace. “The Lord Almighty grant us peaceful nights and a perfect end. Amen.”

Rockies weekly roundup – Week 17 power play goal at 18:18 of the third period as the boys marched home with the 4-1 victory. Goaltender Grady Week 17 wraps up with the Rockies going a perfect Nicholas (33) finished the game with a stellar 0.968 3-0 with a win against Creston Valley, and two wins save percentage stopping 30 of 31 shots he faced. coming from a home series against Golden over the Eddie Mountain Memorial Arena in Invermere weekend. was then scheduled to host a rare matinee matchup beThe Rockies started the week against the Creston tween the Rockies and the Golden Rockets on Sunday, Valley Thundercats on Feb. 1, where they came out to Feb. 6. Trevor Ebling (16) quickly opened the scoring a hot start scoring twice within the first five minutes of at 1:53 of the first period before Kyran Gromnisky (26) the game to lead 2-0. Defenceman Dylan Malarchuk padded the lead up to two on the powerplay at 8:17.

(19) scored his eleventh goal of the year, and Max After a shot was blocked in the Rockies zone, a misKathol (10) scored his fifth. After giving up a late goal placed puck found its way to a Golden player, and they in the first period, Creston tied the game up three min- cut the lead to 2-1 at 13:35 of the first. Near the tail utes into the second. Reed Sparrow (7) then gave the end of the first period, defenceman Jakob McLean (12) Rockies a 3-2 lead by scoring on the powerplay from scored his twelfth of the season to put the Rockies back Colby Phillips (14) and Dylan Malarchuk (19). Cres- up by two. The second period started with a very simton once again fought back just after the powerplay ilar pattern as the first. Forward Jonah Fournier (26) goal by Sparrow to tie things up at 3. There was only got things going at 0:31 before Kayde Kinaschuk (29) one goal scored in the third period, and that goal came scored a powerplay marker at 11:35. Golden then came off of Reed Sparrow’s (7) stick with assists from for- back to score at 14:53 before Forward Max Kathol (10) wards Kyran Gromnisky (25) and Max Kathol (10). brought the score to 6-2 on a great shorthanded opporThe Rockies then traveled to Golden on Feb. 4 tunity. Period three saw both teams trade goals before to take on Golden for the first of two games against Dylan Malarchuk scored the final goal at 9:11 to put them over the weekend. The Rockies’ leading scorer the Rockies up 8-3.

Kayde Kinaschuk (29) got the scoring started late in As of Feb. 6, the Columbia Valley Rockies sit first the first period before scorin the Eddie Mountain ing again midway through Division with a 28-8the second to put the Rockies 2-1 record, good for 59 up 2-0 going into the third. points. They are currently Golden cut the Rockies’ lead three points up on the secin half on a power play goal at ond place Kimberley Dy9:50 of the third, but Colby namiters, and 17 points Phillips (14) quickly regained up on the third place the two-goal cushion just 34 Fernie Ghostriders. seconds later on a goal assistWeek 18 only sees the ed by Dylan Malarchuk (19) Rockies playing one game and Nicholas Rogalsky (8). at home against the KimKayde Kinaschuk (29) then Forward Jonah Fournier (26) watches as his shot trick- berley Dynamiters on Frisealed the Rockies’ win with a les through the Golden goaltender to put the Rockies up day, Feb. 11.

4-1 on Sunday, Feb. 6.

Photo by Mark Teterenko Submitted by Mark Teterenko