Columbia Valley Pioneer, February 24, 2022

February 24, 2022 Vol. 19/Issue 8

The Columbia Valley Pioneer • 1

Your Weekly Source for News and Events

February 24, 2022

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9 SHORE TO SHORE Heather McLeod, from The Station Pub, participates in the sixth annual Recreation Adaptive (RAD) Society’s Polar Plunge fundraiser which was a smash success once again. Dozens of people jumped into frigid Lake Windermere, through a hole in the ice, between 12 and 4 p.m. on Saturday, Feb. 19.

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2 • The Columbia Valley Pioneer

February 24, 2022

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The Recreation Adaptive (RAD) Society’s sixth annual Polar Plunge fundraiser was a smash success once again, with dozens of people jumping into frigid Lake Windermere, through a hole in the ice, between noon and 4 p.m. on Saturday, Feb. 19.

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The Toby Creek Nordic Ski Club lit up the evening of Friday, Feb. 18 with a family friendly Glow Skate event (shown here) at Kinsmen Beach at 7 p.m. It was a busy weekend for the club, which also held a mini-Olympics for its junior Jackrabbit program at Nipika Mountain Resort on Saturday, Feb. 19, and had planned a bagpipe-filled kilt skate event on Sunday, Feb. 20, before that was called off due to poor ice conditions on Lake Windermere.

Above photos by Ryan Watmough

February 24, 2022

The Columbia Valley Pioneer • 3

VALLEY NEWS

Residents continue to press Invermere on climate change ColumbiYEA wants new environmental planner position to place more focus on issue

By Steve Hubrecht steve@columbiavalleypioneer.com

description for the environmental planner position be updated to require experience in climate change and sustainability, and that the position should include identifying climate change risks and opportunities and starting work on high-impact climate projects among its primary duties.

“As it stands, the job posting does not meaningfully support climate action,” wrote ColumbiYEA. Invermere Mayor Al Miller said, at the Invermere council meeting at which the ColumbiYEA letter was

Local residents concerned about climate change continue to prod Invermere council on its approach on the issue, with the latest concern centring around the district’s recent climate change actions priorities report, its planned environmental planner position, and where climate change fits into the district strategic priorities.

ColumbiYEA (Columbia Youth Environmental Action), a local youth group dedicated to environmental issues, recently wrote a letter to Invermere council asking the district to improve the climate change actions priorities report by giving examples of what measures and actions were taken to meet the many commitments and plans outlined in the report, and by providing quantitative information about the district’s baseline climate resilience to help create a municipal climate change adaptation profile.

“For example, what are the current annual emissions, and what is the community’s current susceptibility to climate change related disasters?

Determining such factors will allow the district to benchmark progress and determine high-impact next-steps,” wrote the group.

ColumbiYEA also suggested that the job Globe sits on freshly-cut, green grass.

received, that Invermere has been working “reasonably diligently” on climate change, and that having an environmental planner on staff “will take us a long way down that road (to improving Invermere’s approach to climate change).”

At the same meeting, Invermere received a letter from East Kootenay environmental group Wildsight, in which the Wildsight board of directors wrote, “We were alarmed to hear a motion raised at the [Jan. 14 Invermere council meeting] to remove climate change from the strategic priorities list – and thereby, in effect, to consider the issue ‘resolved.’ The issue is in no way resolved. To remove the climate change action report from council’s strategic priorities so precipitously suggests that council and administration have taken action – or, at least, charted a meaningful path forward. Again, this is not the case.”

Invermere councillors were quick to point out that Wildsight’s board was mistaken.

“No motion was made. I don’t know where that came from,” said Councillor Greg Anderson. “I don’t know where they came up with that, but that’s wrong. There was no motion at that meeting to remove climate change from that (strategic priorities) list.”

Continued on page 17...

Photo from Getty Images

Census shows explosive population growth in the Columbia Valley

By Steve Hubrecht steve@columbiavalleypioneer.com The first public release of data from Canada’s most recent national census came last week, depicting population trends across the country.

Here in the Columbia Valley, the 2021 census shows that the population is up — indeed way up — in all three of the valley’s incorporated municipalities and in both of its regional rural electoral areas.

The 2021 data shows that the valley’s overall population increased a whopping 23.4 per cent, with the region now home to 11,700 people, up from almost 9,500 in the 2016 census.

Of course, ever since the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic hit Canada back in early 2020, anecdotal accounts have abounded about people leaving major urban centres and flocking to rural areas, given that many can now work remotely and that rural areas, in the minds of many people, offer a pleasant respite and a good deal more space than urban areas during a pandemic. So is the population growth here any differ-

ent than everywhere elsewhere across Canada? In short: yes, very different.

The Canadian average population growth from 2016 to 2021 was 5.2 per cent, and the B.C. provincial average was 7.6 per cent. At 23.4 per cent, the Columbia Valley’s growth is quite literally more than quadruple the national average, and almost triple the provincial average.

The District of Invermere, the valley’s largest municipality, now has 3,900 residents, up 15.5 per cent from 2016. The Village of Radium Hot Spring saw the most explosive growth of any Columbia Valley municipality, with its population soaring a mind-boggling 72.6 per cent to 1,300 residents (or, in other words: in just five years Radium got three quarters of the way to actually doubling its population). In the valley’s third incorporated municipality, the Village of Canal Flats, the population surged 20.1 per cent to 800 people.

Growth was just as blistering in the Columbia Valley’s regional rural electoral areas, with Regional District of East Kootenay (RDEK) Area F. Continued on page 7...

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RCMP Report Submitted by Sgt. Darren Kakuno Detachment Commander Columbia Valley RCMP This past week, Feb. 14 through Feb. 20, the Columbia Valley RCMP responded to 56 calls for service. The following is a summary of some of the files our officers responded to.

• On Monday, Feb. 14 at about 3:30 p.m., the driver of a Plymouth Caravan failed to negotiate a curve on Highway 93/95 near Fairmont and rolled the vehicle into the ditch. The driver suffered minor injuries and a passenger in the van was transported to the hospital with non-life threatening injuries.

• On Wednesday, Feb. 16 at about 11 p.m., police received a report of a truck driving off Columbia River Road in Fairmont. An officer attended and, while speaking to the driver, formed suspicion the driver had consumed alcohol and read a roadside breath demand. The driver refused to provide a breath sample and as a result,

N E W S PA P E R

was issued a 90-day Immediate Roadside Prohibition and the vehicle was impounded for 30 days. The driver was held in cells until sober and released the following morning.

• On Saturday, Feb. 19 at about 11:15 p.m., an officer was conducting patrols in Windermere when he observed a stolen Nissan Titan parked at a residence on Subdivision Road. A suspect was arrested at the scene for outstanding warrants. The investigation is ongoing.

• On the evening of Saturday, Feb. 19, Columbia Valley RCMP officers conducted a road safety check on Laurier Street and Panorama drive for approximately 3 hours. Approximately 250 vehicles were checked. One violation ticket for no driver’s license was issued.

• On Sunday, Feb. 20 at about 5 a.m., emergency crews responded to a single vehicle collision on Highway 93/95 in Windermere. The driver of a pickup truck was northbound when he lost control of his vehicle and rolled into the ditch. The driver was not injured.

Minor Hockey Minutes Submitted article The U13 Rep team hosted Fernie for two games on the weekend.

The first game was to determine (after winning the first game in Fernie two weeks ago) who would represent the Kootenays at the BC Provincials. The Rockies won that game 10-3 making the second game on Sunday a league game. Sophia Bacon, the goalie, had a shut out on Sunday with the team winning 7-0.

Continued on page 18...

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

February 24, 2022

The U13 Rockies beat Fernie two games straight, winning the right to represent the East Kootenays at the B.C. Tier 4 Provincials in Mission, B.C. Mar. 19 to 23.

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February 24, 2022

Windermere skier placed sixth in Olympic ski cross

By Steve Hubrecht steve@columbiavalleypioneer.com

were held successively across a single day on Thursday Feb. 17 at the Genting Snow Park in Zhangjiakou, a few hours drive outside Beijing, in Hebei province.

Hoffos did well in the early heats, coming first in her eighth final heat, then coming in second in her quarter final heat.

But in her semifinal heat, Hoffos came fourth, which meant that she was headed to the ‘small final’ instead of the ‘big final’.

In the ‘small final’ Hoffos came second, which equates to sixth place overall.

The sixth place for Hoffos was part of a very strong showing for Canadian women in the ski cross event: Canadian Marielle Thompson earned the silver medal, Canadian Brittany Phelan came in fifth overall, and Canadian Hannah Schmidt was seventh overall.

It was Thompson’s second Olympic medal, and she had won gold in women’s ski cross in 2014.

Windermere’s Courtney Hoffos finished sixth in the women’s ski cross at the Beijing Olympics last week.

Hoffos has been near the top of women’s ski cross for two seasons now, earning a bronze in a World Cup race last year, and finishing last year ranked sixth in the world. After coming back from an injury earlier this year, Hoffos went into the Games as the Columbia Valley Olympian with the best shot at a medal.

The Pioneer was unable to reach Hoffos in China for comment.

Ski cross is run in heats, with each heat featuring four skiers heading down the course at the same time. The first two skiers across the finish line in a given heat move on the next round, while the bottom two are eliminated. The heats continue, in progressive stages, until the semifinals. There are two semifinals, and eight skiers in total: four in each semifinal heat.

The top two skiers from each semifinal go to the ‘big final’ (which is for places first through fourth), while the bottom two skiers from each semifinal go to the ‘small final’ (which is for places fifth through Windermere resident Courtney Hoffos came sixth in women’s ski cross eighth). at the Beijing Olympics last week.

Photo by GEPA The heats

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The Columbia Valley Pioneer • 5

PROFESSIONAL MOUNTAIN GUIDE Real Es tate

250.341.1967

MOUNTAI NLI FEHOMES.CA PUBLIC NOTICE – PARCEL TAX ROLLS The Regional District of East Kootenay is updating parcel tax rolls for the following service areas: • Tie Lake Water Level Control • Columbia Valley Local Conservation Fund • Elko Water • Moyie Water • Moyie Water – 2006 Project • Lazy Lake Water Level Control • Wasa/Ta Ta Creek/Skookumchuck Mosquito Control • Rushmere Water • Edgewater Sewer

• Edgewater Water • Windermere Water • Windermere Water Treatment • Holland Creek Sewer • Holland Creek Water • Spur Valley Water • Baltac Sewer • Timber Ridge Water • Wasa Recreation Contribution

Owners of property located in these parcel tax areas may request that the roll be amended, in relation to their own property, on one or more of the following grounds: • there is an error or omission respecting a name or address on the assessment roll; • there is an error or omission respecting the inclusion of a parcel; • there is an error or omission respecting the taxable frontage of a parcel (for water or sewer service areas that use frontage for taxation); and • an exemption has been improperly allowed or disallowed.

The parcel tax rolls are available for inspection, at the Regional District of East Kootenay office in Cranbrook during regular office hours.

Requests for amendments must be made in writing to the Regional District of East Kootenay, 19 - 24th Avenue South, Cranbrook BC V1C 3H8, on or before Tuesday, March 8, 2022 @ 12:00 pm. If requests are received, a Parcel Tax Roll Review Panel will meet at 1:00 pm on Friday, March 11, 2022 in the RDEK Board Room.

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DOLLARS & CENTS FINANCIAL PLAN CONSULTATION We want to hear from you!

The RDEK’s Draft Five Year Financial Plan is open for public comment.

Copies of the 5-Year Financial Plan and comment forms are available at engage.rdek.bc.ca/budget or can be mailed to you by calling 1-888-478-7335.

COMMENT PERIOD ENDS MARCH 7, 2022 AT NOON

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

6 • The Columbia Valley Pioneer

February 24, 2022

PERSPECTIVE

Inflation rates on the rise

By Pioneer Staff info@columbiavalleypioneer.com It is a tale as old as time itself. You receive a raise.

Gas prices go up. You get another raise. The price of groceries goes up. Inflation is a staple in today’s society, yet you may find yourself noticing its effects on a dayto-day basis now more than ever before.

If that thought has run through your mind, you are not alone. Even just over two months into 2022, Canadians are already privy to rising costs of exacerbated proportions, with inflation “surpassing 5 per cent for the first time since September 1991,” according to Statistics Canada website.

The site also adds that Canada saw gasoline prices experience a 4.8 per cent increase in January 2022, a rise in shelter costs by 6.2 per cent, and — as many valley residents have probably noticed by now— an increase in grocery prices by 6.5 per cent.

As many local residents deal with the current rental crisis, it should come as no surprise that British Columbia in particular is a stand-out figure on Statistics Canada when it comes to rental prices, rising at 4.3 per cent in January 2022, compared to 3.9 per cent in December 2021. The data is attributed largely to more people moving to the region, causing increased demand in an area of low supply. And really, who can blame people for relocating to such a beautiful place?

These statistics undoubtedly raise feelings of fear.

But what can we do as a community to avoid getting sucked into such feelings of helplessness?

The most important solution is to lower recreational spending habits. It sounds like a crazy concept, but let us utilize this highly-sought-after place that we call home. That is why one comes to B.C. in the first place right?

Spend a day at the beach, take your dog on a hike, jump on that toboggan, strap on some skates, or just simply get outside and be active. These activities cost virtually nothing and raises naturally-released endorphins.

If that isn’t your scene, change the narrative to a cozy day in, decorated with a crackling fire, cup of hot chocolate and cheesy movie.

Whatever you choose, remember to cherish what is actually important — not money or materials — but rather, friends, family and memories.

For those who would like to see the most up-to-date statistics on Canadian inflation rates, or who would like to discover their personal inflation rate, visit https:// www150.statcan.gc.ca/n1/daily-quotidien/220216/ dq220216a-eng.htm.

Historical Lens W.W. Taynton stands in wheat field at Experimental Station. Located in Invermere, C558, 1913, courtesy of Windermere District Historical Society

Radium’s bighorn sheep Dear Editor: I believe that urgent action is required to save our Bighorn sheep. There is no time to waste.

As a permanent resident of our Valley I have been following the decline of our magnificent wildlife populations for many years. As more and more people discover the marvelous values and setting of our Rocky Mountain Trench the human population growth and the demand for human space is increasing. Pressure on wildlife is the result of human growth and other variables resulting in wildlife habitat loss and the reality of highways/roads mortality.

The recent articles in the paper informs us about the elevated and ongoing loss of Bighorn sheep in the Radium general area which is alarming. It heralds the future demise of a very healthy herd that has inhabited their range for historical times. They are invaluable.

There seems to be an elephant in the room that is not seen as elected officials seem to be reluctant to discuss. It is cars and speed which is the cause for most of the fatalities. What we need is to convince the decision makers with BC Highways to reduce highway speeds, enforce lower speeds in high mortality sections (barriers/mounds) and implement very heavy fines on guilty drivers. The presence of cameras and full time

personnel at peak traffic hours is a must. I am sure that revenue from speeding fines would more than pay for personal enforcing posted speeds.

There are groups that collect donations and grants to promote a healthy environment. With their knowledge and active involvement they can be the voice of the people to act to minimize the loss of more sheep.

I think this would take the big communal effort of elected officials, and any group or individuals that love our Rocky Mountain Bighorn. This could be a worthy cause that would unite our population.

Yes, I do know that the roundabout and the enhancements on the road in Radium were done to expedite traffic for our visitors and part time residents.

There is no use regretting that protective infrastructures to protect wildlife should have been done at the same time. I also understand some parties are reluctant to discuss lower highway speeds. Talks about overpasses and other infrastructure to be built in the future are supported by most people but until protection projects take place we must lower the highway speeds now.

Failure to act now could result in the only bighorns being seen would be found on the Radium roundabout.

Chris Espinel, Invermere BC

The Columbia Valley

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February 24, 2022

The Columbia Valley Pioneer • 7

attraction and retention, with plenty of consultants hired and studies done.

The area (which includes the unin“So we are starting to see the fruit of corporated communities of Fairmont Hot that labour,” she said.

Springs, Windermere, Dutch Creek and Canal Flats Chief Administrative OfPanorama Mountain Resort, among oth- ficer Adrian Bergles called the growth in ers) is seeing its population leap 29.2 per- his village “very positive” noting that “the cent to 3,500 people. In RDEK Area G village has an ambitious target to reach a (which includes the unincorporated mu- population of 1,000 by 2026, so this indinicipalities of Edgewater, Brisco, Spilli- cates we are heading in the right direction. macheen and Dry Gulch, among others) It’s encouraging.” the population leapt up 12.7 per cent to Bergles said that even though there 1,650 people. were plenty of anecdotal reports of people Population figures were up on both moving to Canal Flats since the pandemic the valley’s First Nations as well, although started, he was still a bit surprised by just not as dramatically. The Akisqnuk First how much the population grew.

Nation saw its population increase 6.4 “In a small community like ours, 20 per cent to 150. At the Shuswap Indian per cent — and that’s almost 200 people Band, population was up 1.6 per cent to — that makes a big difference,” he told 320 people. the Pioneer. “It indicates that some of the “I alway knew it was going to be up, initiatives the village has undertaken are it was just a question of how much. In the having an effect. People want to be part of last couple of years, we know a lot of peo- the village. It’s good to see.’ ple have been moving here. It’s terrific,” Canal Flats once had a population of Invermere mayor Al Miller told the Pio- 1,300, back in the 1970s. neer, adding that people’s expectations of The census data released also outlined services always seem to be going up, and how many dwellings there are in total in to meet those riseach municipality or ing expectations, “It’s good to see that the population rural electoral area, a municipality is up across the board in our area. It’s as well as how many needs more taxof those dwellings are good for the whole valley.” ation.

Adding occupied full time new people to the by what the census Al Miller, Invermere Mayor population means termed ‘the usual resmore tax dollars for services, without the idents’ (in other words, homeowners or need to raise tax rates, continued Miller. long term renters). Housing not occupied “The pandemic has certainly figured by ‘the usual residents’ includes homes into this, as it has changed work culture to that are used as occasional vacation homes allow a lot more people to work remotely or summer homes by second homeownor work from home,” he said. “It’s good ers, or that are rented out as short-term to see that the population is up across the rentals (STRs). board in our area. It’s good for the whole Of the three Columbia Valley municvalley.” ipalities, Radium had the lowest percentRadium Mayor Clara Reinhardt told age of occupied dwellings, with just 630 the Pioneer she was not surprised, even out of 1,360 dwellings (46 per cent) occugiven the eye-popping 72.6 per cent pop- pied by homeowners or long term renters. ulation increase for her village.

In comparison, Invermere has 1,420 out “Back in 2016, when the last census of 1,880 (75 per cent) of its dwellings occame out, we were surprised — very sur- cupied by homeowners or long term rentprised — to see almost no growth in Radi- ers, while Canal Flats has 360 out of 470 um. Because anecdotally it seemed, at that (75 per cent) of its dwellings occupied by point, like our village had grown a lot. homeowners or long term renters.

But it just didn’t show up statistically that “We have one of the highest rates of time,” said Reinhardt. “So this time, it was unoccupied dwellings in the province. almost a feeling of vindication. I thought That is a concern,” said Reinhardt. “Our “Aha, I knew we were growing, and now percentage (of unoccupied dwellings) is we have the stats to show it’.” high compared to most other places. The Reinhardt noted that there has been only other places that are similar are a few quite a lot of effort over the past five or ten other resort municipalities. It is someyears in the Columbia Valley on resident thing we have to address.” ...Continued “Census” from page 3

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District of Invermere

TRANSPORTATION MASTER PLAN The District of Invermere needs to update its Transportation Master Plan (TMP). The updated plan will shape the future of all transportation modes in Invermere, building from the recommendations provided in the 2006 Transportation Study and the recently completed Joint Active Transportation Plan (JATP) developed in partnership with the Shuswap Band. The TMP is being updated to identify and prioritize current transportation needs and address projected growth and development in the community.

A virtual public information session will be held on March 2, 2022 from 3:30pm to 4:30pm. The session will expand on work completed to date, the proposed network improvements, and next steps. People will be able to ask questions during the session.

Following the event, there will be a follow-up online survey open from March 3 to 14, available on the District’s website. Please visit https://invermere.net/invermeres-transportation-master-plan/ for more information on the TMP project and the upcoming session!

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8 • The Columbia Valley Pioneer

February 24, 2022

Contract awarded for 13th Ave sewer upgrades phase two District will levy financial penalty if work disrupts school, as phase one did

The chaos this caused was top of mind for councillors during discussion on the upcoming phase two.

“The construction on 13th Avenue was, I think it fair Valley residents and visitors heading south from Into say, quite disruptive to a lot of residents,” said Counvermere on Westside Road will once again be making cillor Gerry Taft. “Will there be a monetary penalty for a detour out around Eileen Madson Primary School the contractors if they don’t finish the work (phase two) (EMP) this summer. in time?”

The District of Invermere recently voted to award the Invermere Chief Administrative Officontract for phase two of the sewer and water infrastruccer Andrew Young replied that yes there is, ture upgrades along 13th Avenue to Marwest Industries and it is “quite clearly laid out in the request Ltd. for $1.47 million. for proposals (RFP). There’s no hiding from that...We have a very narrow window to get this work done, in July and August... Marwest is quite aware of the need to get the work done in the window and there are indeed penalties that can be applied.”

To help pay for the work, council gave first, second and third readings to a loan CITIZEN OF THE YEAR authorization bylaw allowing the district to borrow up to $1.5 million, and initiated an 2021 alternate approval process on borrowing.

CALL FOR NOMINATIONS “These are critically needed sewer upWho is your local unsung hero? grades that will help prevent sewer backups in basements,” said Young, later adding • Whose volunteer work has made our community that the work also includes water system (Spillimacheen to Canal Flats) a better place 13th Avenue shown during phase one of the sewer and water infrastructure upgrades, new paving, and some parts of a to live, learn, work or play? upgrades back in November 2021.

Photo by Ryan Watmough multi-use path.

• Whose exemplary civic engagement and dedication to others has had a profoundly positive impact on our quality of life?

• Who selflessly embodies the spirit of the Columbia Valley through their contributions to community projects?

By Steve Hubrecht steve@columbivalleypioneer.com

Nomination letters describing as much information as possible can be mailed to PO Box 877, Invermere, BC V0A 1K0 Nominations close on March 29th. Award will be announced April 14th in The Columbia Valley Pioneer.

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

Marwest is the same company that did phase one of the 13th Avenue sewer upgrades in summer and fall 2021.

The closure of the 13th Avenue for the work and the subsequent detour of traffic along 15th Avenue caused some of the largest traffic jams the district has seen, once EMP students returned to school in September, during the school’s morning pick-off and afternoon drop-off times.

Panorama Canadian crew beaten by Slovenia in team slalom event

winds at the Yanqing National Alpine Skiing Centre, about an hour outside of Beijing, forced the parallel mixed team slalom race to be postponed until the folPanorama alpine racer Cassidy Gray and her three lowing day. teammates in the Canadian mixed team parallel slalom Canada met Slovenia right off the bat, in the 1/8th event were beaten by Slovenia in the first round at the final, with the winning team then moving on the Beijing Olympics. quarterfinals. Canadian woman racer Erin MielzynsGray was participating in her second event at the ki was the first down the course for Canada, beating Beijing Games, in the mixed team parallel event on Slovenian Ana Bucik, to give the Canadians a 1 point Sunday, Feb. 20, after she had competed in the wom- advantage. Slovenian male Miha Hrobat then beat en’s giant slalom (GS) earlier in the Olympics.

Canadian Erik Read to tie the event between Canada The mixed parallel slalom is relatively new to and Slovenia at 1 point apiece. Gray then took to the the Olympics, having become an official medal sport course, but was beaten by Slovenian woman Andreonly four years ago at the 2018 Olympics in Pyeongc- ja Slokar, giving Slovenia a 2-1 lead in points. Trevor hang, Korea. The event is contested by national teams Philp beat Slovenian Jan Kranjec to tie the score 2-2, made up of four skiers (two women and two men). but the Slovenians advanced to quarterfinals as they In each round, two countries race each other directly had the better aggregate team time. in a knockout style format. Two skiers, one from each In the end, the top ranked Austrian mixed parallel country, ski down a set of side-by-side identical courses team won the gold medal. American superstar alpine at the same time, and whoever crosses the finish line skier Mikaela Shiffrin, who had earlier in the Games first gets one point for shocked observers by their country. After all getting disqualified in eight skiers (four from both the slalom and each country) have the giant slalom events raced, the country (events in which she with the most points had previously won goes on to the next Olympic gold) missed round. If the score is in her final bid for an tied, then the country Olympic medal at the with the best aggregate Beijing Games, after time (the total time of she and her American all four skiers) goes to teammates finished the next round. fourth in the mixed The event was Columbia Valley alpine racer Cassidy Gray and her Canadian team slalom, getting originally scheduled teammates were beaten by Slovenia in 1/8 final of the mixed team beaten by Norway to be held on Satur- parallel slalom event at the Beijing Olympics on Sunday, Feb. 20. in the bronze medal day, Feb. 19, but high Photo by GEPA round.

By Steve Hubrecht steve@columbiavalleypioneer.com

February 24, 2022

The Columbia Valley Pioneer • 9

News from the Seniors’ Association

cards instead of numbers. Ed Cotton is the caller, with his deck of cards. Bring nickels.

• There is duplicate bridge at 12:30 p.m. on WednesMike Bradford from the Rotary Bingo funds day afternoons and 1 p.m. on Fridays. Come with a partpresented to the Seniors a $5000 cheque. The money was used to replace the baseboard heaters with ner and have an afternoon away from home. The bridge players are beginnew efficient ones and all the lighting with ners to very experienced.

LED lighting. It was greatly appreciated.

• There is crib at 1:30 p.m. on The Seniors’ Hall is open for events Sundays. Want to learn, they will and fun. However we still have a mandate of two vaccinations in order to enjoy the events teach you.

• Fitness and Yoga will continue occurring at the Hall. All events cost $2.

• We are looking for people to come and at the Community Hall due to space.

Yoga is Wednesdays at 1:00 p.m. and try out floor curling. It is a fun time on Tuesdays at 1:30 p.m. It is just like regular curling, fitness is Mondays and Thursdays at but no sweeping and no ice. We have sticks, 10:30 a.m.

• We generally have lunches, and in case, you have trouble bending those these have been sparse for the past knees. Join Ed in enjoying this sport. He is an two years, but the first one is planned excellent teacher.

There is carpet bowling at 1:30 p.m. on for March 1, COVID-19 permitting.

Andy Stuart-Hill will be the preMondays. This group has been bowling every time they could between various man- Mike Bradford from the Rotary Bingo funds presented the Seniors with a $5000 cheque. From senter after a lunch of chili and bun dates, but always welcome new members. left to right: Jim Harrison, Gerriann Donahue, Jim Jenkinson, Madelene Lange, and Mike (again $2). You must sign up on the They have two sets of carpets so can accom- Bradford.

Submitted photo sheet at the Hall for this lunch.

Submitted by Gerriann Donahue

modate many players. No experience needed, just come and try something new.

• On Thursday afternoons at 1:30 p.m., there is OKO (or pokeno). It is a form of bingo, that uses playing

WorkBC connects people to opportunities.

Find a job or train for a new career at WorkBC.ca/FindYourPlace Plus, get one-on-one job support at your local WorkBC Centre.

10 • The Columbia Valley Pioneer

February 24, 2022

OUT OF OFFICE… March Maintenance... March Madness...

March Extravaganza!

We have so much on the go this March, stay in the know: March Maintenance Attention businesses that specialize in the Trades, Wellness & Healthcare, Professional & Personal services.

Next month we will be running a ‘Love Local’ campaign just for you and we’re calling it MARCH MAINTENANCE! With a huge marketing campaign, your Chamber will be encouraging the Valley to Mend it. Rebuild it. Maintain it. Replace it.

Fix it. Repair it. Improve it. You name it!

Your clients/customers will be invited to enter weekly prize draws for local cash which could be injected back into your business. If you offer these services, please register at valleystrong.ca and take the opportunity to thank your customers for maintaining it with you.

Hey Members (and Future Members), It’s CVCC AGM DAY! Join us on March 8 at 7 p.m.in the Lions Hall (or via zoom). Members (and future members) are invited to enjoy refreshments, have your say, network, hear about everything we are up to, meet the team, mingle and network. You can attend via zoom or meet us in-person at the Lions Hall. We ask all members to please register at cvchamber. ca, even if you don’t plan to attend. Non-members are welcome to come learn about us; however, voting is reserved for those with membership.

Columbia Valley Job Fair and Career Expo All businesses in the valley are invited to sign up for the Job fair, happening on March 10th. Please register by the end of the day on March 4th. Don’t miss this opportunity to promote your business to job and career seekers. Our proposed timeline is: 1 to 2 p.m. high school student session, 2 to 5 p.m. open to the public, 5 to 7 p.m. Taco bar with refreshments and open networking. We look

forward to promoting you, your business and your employment opportunities.

Welcome FIS World Juniors: Business Window Decorating Contest Call to businesses: we are having a window decorating contest featuring the FIS logo. Most creative store window display will win two 3-day ski passes!

We are so excited to see what you’re able to come up with. Event details can be found on our CONTACT US Facebook page.

TODAY AND

HAVE YOUR BUSINESS FEATURED 250-342-2844

February 24, 2022

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

Friday, February 25 • 11 a.m.: Vanishing Bighorn Sheep Art Exhibit. Coming to Invermere from Golden!

Come visit Pynelogs Cultural Centre, free admission • 8 p.m.: Radium Brewing Hosts Trivia. Trivia starts at 8, but come early to get a table for your trivia team!

Saturday, February 26 • 10 a.m. – 2:30 p.m.: Learn how to Cross-Country Ski at Nipika. Join us for a learn to Ski Clinic. It is $60 per person. Bring your own gear or use rentals for $25/person. Visit www.tobycreeknordic.com for more information.

• 8 p.m.: Ullr Bar is hosting a “Slow and S#?*!y Service Day”. Manners and customer service are being thrown out the window, so the Ullr crew wants you to come verbally insult them. It is $20 per ticket, email to book in advance: info@ullrbar.com

Sunday, February 27 • 10 am -12 noon: Whiteway Cleanup day. The Lake Windermere Ambassadors and the Whiteway Ambassadors will be hosting a Whiteway Clean up to remove garbage and dog waste along the trail before the ice melts. Looking for community assistance and support. Garbage bags and hot chocolate are provided.

Wednesday, March 2 • 3:30-4:30 p.m.: District of Invermere Transportation Master Plan Public Info Session.

Visit www.invermere.net for more information about how to attend digitally.

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 mferster@fdx.family or text 250-341-8678.

Thursdays • 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+.

• 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.

The Columbia Valley Pioneer • 11

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

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

12 • The Columbia Valley Pioneer

February 24, 2022

Winter Gardening Tips from Groundswell Network Society and Home Hardware Submitted by Groundswell Network Society Like eating? You may be thinking about food sustainability, an increasingly important issue as food costs rise and climate change’s fires, floods, heat blooms, and drought decimate food sources.

Groundswell is finding amazing gardeners throughout the valley who are working towards raising more food by extending the growing season. One ‘cool’ way you can feed family and friends more nutritious food is to practice winter sowing – a method of starting seeds outdoors in winter that allows them to germinate early in spring.

This method takes advantage of natural temperatures for those of us who don’t have a greenhouse or grow lights. It saves on your electrical bill, removes the need to harden off your plants and ensures no leggy seedlings.

Start with a trip to Home Hardware to buy seeds (they are in store now). Here are some cool-season vegetable seeds for winter sowing: arugula, beets, broccoli, brussel sprouts, cabbage, carrots, cauliflower, endive, green onion, kale, spinach, radicchio, pea, radish, and

Finally, place your containers side by side into the spinach. Note: flowers too.

Next, dig through your snow. NOW. Let them settle in to sleep. As daylight inrecycle bin for containers – creases and temperatures rise, the seeds will sprout. Reanything that is translucent member to water them. The container becomes a mini enough to allow light to pass greenhouse for the new sprouts. When spring is fully through. Tip: make friends here, simply remove the duct tape, lift the seedlings out with your local coffee shop, and transplant them into your garden or raised bed.

Then prepare for your first fresh garden green salad they go through dozens of a month early. milk containers each week.

Cut your milk container in half underneath the handle (you want to be able to refit the top over the bottom.) Poke a few holes in the very bottom to create drainage. With the top off for easy access, sprinkle in 2 inches of potting soil. Dust on seeds. Water. Sprinkle on a bit more soil. Push down the top of the container over the bottom and duct tape all around the container to seal it closed.

Leave the lid of the container off for air circulation.

Last step – use a UV proof pen to write on a label what is planted inside. Tip – most pens fade and can’t be read when your seeds sprout. Stick on labels tend to break down in the snow. Tie the label around the Groundswell Network Society showcases how to practice food handle of the milk jug. sustainability through winter gardening. Submitted photos

Phase two of Shore to Shore Pathway set to happen later this year Work should start begin in 2022 on paving north section of Canal Flats trail

By Steve Hubrecht steve@columbiavalleypioneer.com The Village of Canal Flats is aiming to finish the second phase of its Shore to Shore (S2S) Pathway later this year, having secured a pair of grants to help pay for the work.

When all phases of the Shore to Shore Pathway are complete the paved, non-motorized trail will stretch about 3.5 kilometres from Tilley Memorial Park on Columbia Lake to the bank of the Kootenay River, allowing Canal Flats residents to easily walk, bike or push young kids in strollers to and from both these popular spots.

The idea of the trail goes back to 2018, when the village developed a municipal trail plan, under the umbrella of its parks and recreation plan.

The Shore to Shore Pathway has been divided up into multiple phases, which the village has been working on

as recreation grant money has become available. The first price tag of the work involved. phase was completed in 2020, and resulted in a 925-me“It’s difficult terrain to build in,” said Bergles. “But tre unpaved trail from the middle of Canal Flats running once done, it will be a great amenity for residents and for north, parallel to Grainger Road, to the four-way inter- the community.” section (by Richardson Crescent) near Tilley. The second “This pathway will be a significant asset to the comphase involves turning this 925- metre trail into a proper munity, promoting healthy lifestyles for people of all ages pathway by paving it. Future phases will see the pathway and abilities,” added CBT Delivery of Benefits Manager extended south from the village centre all the way to the Michelle d’Entremont. cobble beach on the shore of the Kootenay River.

Funding for the second phase is coming from a Columbia Basin Trust (CBT) grant worth $460,000, and a provincial Catalyst Fund grant (administered

by Kootenay Rockies Tourism) worth $27,000, with the village kicking in an additional $130,000.

“Tilley Park is a key and strategic asset to the Village of Canal Flats” said Canal Flats Mayor Karl Sterzer. “The Shore to Shore is a significant quality of place improvement which enhances this great village asset and will allow more folks to access it.”

Construction on the second phase should begin later in 2022.

The path will be separated from Grainger Road in places by physical barriers, making it safer for users. Canal Flats Chief Administrative Officer Adrian Bergles noted that although the north part of the Shore to Shore Pathway (the part involved in phase two) is not even a full kilometre long, it does go up and down some slopes and requires a few cutbacks, all of which makes the engineering and paving a Canal Flats has been working on creating a paved trail between bit more complicated, and raise the Tilley Park and Kootenay River. Photos by Ryan Watmough.

February 24, 2022

The Columbia Valley Pioneer • 13

Love of Libraries Submitted by Radium Hot Springs Public Library Jacqueline Kozak, Library Director Cindy Reekie, Friends Coordinator We have a lot of exciting things happening in the coming months at the Radium Public Library.

Starting March 1, the library will be open until 5 p.m. on Wednesdays!

We have also added a few new items to our collection. In addition to books, DVDs and magazines, patrons can also stop by our library to borrow a radon testing kit, a kobo e-reader device or a bat pack! The bat pack is the latest addition to our Library of Things, and it will be available to borrow beginning in March!

Our bat pack will help you locate and identify local bat populations. Each pack includes an echo

meter (compatible with Android devices), identification guides, real bat skeleton (so tiny!), and a backpack.

This is our first year as a registered Free Tax Clinic. Free tax clinics are available for eligible individuals through the Community Volunteer Income Tax Program (CVITP) and the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA). This free personal tax preparation service is available for individuals who do not exceed the BC low-income value. Please go to our website to review full eligibility criteria or call the library at 250-347-2434 to inquire!

We are hoping to transition to in-person programming in the coming months. We are starting with in-person storytime, which will run at its usual time on Saturdays at 11 a.m. beginning Saturday, Feb. 26. Stay tuned for more news on upcoming in-person programs!

Are you a “friend” of the library?

Patrons are friends of the library and absolutely, a library cannot exist without its patrons.

And too, there is another kind of “friend” that libraries need to better service their patrons. So, what exactly is a “friend”.

Well, according to Webster’s New World Dictionary, a friend is, “a person whom one knows well and is fond of.” Most of us likely identify a friend as this. But Webster also states a “friend is an ally, supporter, or sympathizer.”

The latter definition describes a volunteer ‘Friend of the Library.’ These friends belong to a group of friends who are fond of the library, sympathize with the needs of a library and its patrons, and would like to become an ally to support the library.

They do this as a team and are dedicated to raising funds for community libraries in expanding their services and programs.

So, after this introduction to another kind of friend, and perhaps with a little more thought, you would like to become a friend of the Radium library.

For more information, contact the Radium Public Library or visit the library website for more details on how to become one. And, if you do decide to, you may be surprised how much fun it is and how good it will make you feel!

Radium Library Contact Information Phone: 250-347-2434 Email: info@radium.bclibrary.ca Visit: https://radium.bc.libraries.coop/

Securing our water in a low-to-no snow future Submitted by Nicole Trigg Living Lakes Canada Communications Director

farming will put increasing demands on surface and groundwater systems. Where does water for recreation sit within this thinking? Will we have the luxury of keeping our golf courses green and making snow for our ski resorts? And what about fish and other aquatic species, already suffering from decreased stream flow and warmer water temperatures? In a low-to-no snow future, conserving and budgeting increasingly precious water sources is a necessity we have so far blissfully ignored.

“We need a paradigm shift in how we manage water and who is involved in these decisions. We need new ways of thinking and valuing water if we hope to successfully navigate the most serious looming challenge of the 21st century,” says Kat Hartwig, Executive Director of Living Lakes Canada.

Living Lakes Canada is a national water stewardship non-governmental organization (NGO)

Have you ever thought about what a future with less snow might look like? Okay, so we’ve still seen plenty of snow this winter, but as temperatures continue to skyrocket with longer periods of heat and drought, climate models are predicting the disappearance of snow as we know it. In the coming decades, increasingly-smaller snow packs will also melt faster. Where will this leave us?

Less snow and disappearing glaciers means we will be faced with tougher choices and fewer options about how we use water.

It will be harder to fill our reservoirs for irrigation and water supplies in cities and towns. And because these same water sources also provide for industrial and commercial purposes, we will be forced to make decisions about how much water can be diverted while guaranteeing drinking water for our communities. What about hydro power generation? Or fighting increasingly One of Living Lakes Canada’s water monitoring programs, Kootecommon wildfires? nay Watershed Science, is working to improve understanding and With less rain during prediction of how small- and medium-sized watersheds are going to the growing season, behave in a changing climate.

Photo submitted by Living Lakes Canada

based in southeast British Columbia that seeks a practical approach to confronting the emerging water crisis. Living Lakes Canada partners with First Nations, community groups, other non-profits, academia, industry, and all levels of government to tackle a variety of water-related projects across Canada. By monitoring streams, rivers, lakes, wetlands and groundwater, Living Lakes Canada strives to support our collective understanding of the constraints on water quantity and quality, and identify strategies and solutions for protecting this invaluable resource in our changing climate.

In the Canadian Columbia Basin, Living Lakes Canada is quantifying how much water we have and how much is needed for supporting livelihoods and ecosystems in a warmer future where water availability will be fundamentally changed. It’s an innovative pilot project that integrates users and local perspectives used to develop a practical template for other regions that will inevitably grapple with the same water challenges.

This modernized water protection work will be critical for supporting government policies around sustainable water management.

Continued on page 18...

Westbench Recreation Site Maintenance Contract Recreation Sites and Trails BC is looking for a contractor to do regular maintenance on recreation sites in the Invermere/ Westbench area. The contract will include 143 visits to 24 recreation sites and trailheads. Most site visits are scheduled between May – September. Some additional projects will be available.

Duties include painting and minor repairs of recreation infrastructure, removal of litter, cleaning of outhouses, removal of deadfall along access roads and within recreation sites, updating signage, reporting safety or maintenance concerns, and miscellaneous tasks as discussed with the Recreation Officer.

For the Invitation to Tender packages and more information, please visit BC Bid document no. RC23-258-001, or contact Trevor.Hann@gov.bc.ca or Kelsey.Knoll@gov.bc.ca (ph. 250-805-6767).

14 • The Columbia Valley Pioneer

February 24, 2022

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Irena Shepard, B.Sc. (Pharm.)., Tannis Hartwig, B.Sc. (Pharm.)., Laura Kipp, Pharm D. Your Compounding Pharmacy

www.kootenayinsurance.ca

Have an opinion?

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

•

N E W S PA P E R

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

1301 - 7th Avenue, Invermere

250-342-6612

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

February 24, 2022

The Columbia Valley Pioneer • 15

HERE TO SERVE YOU CONCRETE

CONCRETE

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) • 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 SERVICES

CARPET CLEANING

Sales Representative

www.columbiavalleypioneer.com lerissa@columbiavalleypioneer.com

O F

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

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

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

CARPET CLEANING

• 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

N E W S PA P E R

Lerissa McLaughlin

P U R S U I T

Enjoy life, we’ll clean it up!

Your Weekly Source for News and Events

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

I N

Call NOW:

Visit www.heavensbest.com for more information

250-688-0213

CONTRACTING

CONTRACTING

Kekuli Bay Cabinetry

Richard Vernon – Master Plumber & Gasfitter

kekulibaycabinetry.com

TILE AND GROUT CLEANING Business: 250-342-9692

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

Cell: 250-342-1273

ptarmiganrugclean@gmail.com

CONTRACTING

250-688-4868

ST

BROAD

&CON T R A C T I N G

LTD

PLUMBI N G

rvbroadstreet@gmail.com broadstreetplumbing.com

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

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

INTERIOR • EXTERIOR • WALL COVERINGS

Gary’s

Seniors Discounts

• Authorized dealer • Designer • Installer

dale@decontracting.ca • 250-341-7098

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

Professional Painting & Decorating Ltd. 1978

Dale Elliott Contracting

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

Specializing in all heating, electric, gas and wood.

FREE Estimates

Local Resident

CUSTOM WOOD FINISHING FAUX FINISHES JOURNEYMAN RED SEAL

403-650-4622 • garysptg@gmail.com

A licensed, registered and bonded company

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!

16 • The Columbia Valley Pioneer

P ioneer C lassifieds ANNOUNCEMENT

Alcoholics Anonymous. If alcohol is causing problems or conflict in your life, AA can help. All meetings are at 8 p.m.

Columbia United AA, Invermere: Saturday, Sunday, Tuesday and Wednesday at the BC Service Building, South End – 624 4th St., Invermere. Please call 250342-2424 for more information or to speak with someone from our fellowship.

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

CHEERS WITHOUT TEARS Cheers to Bill Herriot for bringing treats to our office. What a kind gesture!

Cheers to Dr. Edward Schaeffer and the amazing staff at Chisel Peak Medical Clinic for the very professional way they attend to their patients’ needs. Well done!

Cheers to Dylan and the Graham Family. It was a pretty bland Valentine’s Day, just a regular old day. Then I received your beautiful card on my car and all the bells and whistles, hearts and flowers popped into my heart. Blessings and hugs to you sweet young man.

Cheers to Josh Devins RMT for the great massage!

Jolly CHEERS to the front staff ladies at Pharmasave. We all had a good laugh on Friday re: when you talk to yourself, you’re never wrong. Cheers for the conversation and laughter!

Big CHEERS to DARLENE, BARB, FOX, BRANDON. . . all the staff at Valley Foods for working hard to: always provide excellent service, make shopping for nutritious food a joy; and brighten our days with uplifting conversation.

CHEERS WITHOUT TEARS

LOT/ACREAGE FOR SALE

Cheers to Karen at Ascent Florist in Radium. The vases of Valentines flowers for CoHo and Ivy were beautiful.

Cheers to the Pinetree Place kids who delivered kindness letters around the neighborhood. Such a great idea - you made my day!

BUYING OR SELLING?

As a recreational property owner for the last 20+ years I would like to say CHEERS to the many service providers in the Valley.

We recently purchased a new property late last year and here is a big shout out to Aquair, Quiniscoe Homes, Taynton Bay Electric, Columbia Valley Sewer Services, Red Eye Rentals, the entire Team at Home Hardware, Your Private Connection, Walker Auto Repair, Superior Propane and Rockies Law - your service level is exceptional and your product expertise is outstanding - we could not have made this move without all of you!

BARRY BROWN-JOHN

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

ACCOMMODATION WANTED Retired bachelor seeking rural rent or caretaking accommodation. No vices.

References. 1-250-426-4445

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

I specialize in rural, recreational, farm and ranch properties.

“Rocky Mountain Land Man”

Call or text

250-342-5245

b.brownjohn@gmail.com Elkhorn Country Estates Phase 4 now selling 3.2 to 5.7 acre parcels. Only 3 lots left. Private yet close to town.

Individual wells.

Phone Elkhorn Ranch 250-342-1268 www.elkhornranches.com

WANTED Wanted to Buy Used Piano Phone 250-342-9636

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.

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

Over 35 year’s experience.

Call 250-688-2897.

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

February 24, 2022

• Phone: 250-341-6299 • Fax: 1-855-377-1312 • Email: info@columbiavalleypioneer.com • Web: www.columbiavalleypioneer.com

SERVICES Does your business need a bookkeeper ?

Currently accepting new clients rockies.bookkeeping @gmail.com 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

HELP WANTED

0911611 BC Ltd. O/A Tim Hortons 496 Highway 93/95, Invermere BC, V0A 1K2 Tim Hortons Invermere is currently looking for

FOOD COUNTER ATTENDANTS Permanent, full-time, part-time, shift, weekend, day, night, evening. $16 per hour + benefits • Start Date: ASAP Please apply via email at timhortons.invermere@gmail.com or in person at 496 Highway 93/95 Invermere, BC

DISTRICT OF INVERMERE

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

TEMPORARY POSITION Gardener 1

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

The District of Invermere has an opening for a Gardener (Permanent Position) within the Public Works Department.

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.

General Hours of work: • 8 am – 4:30 pm Monday – Friday. Weekend work will be required.

Helna’s Stube is looking for a part-time evening server please send resume to mail@helnas. com. Phone 250 347 0047.

This position is within the CUPE Local 2982 bargaining unit and is a seasonal, 40 hours per week position from April until October each year.

Minimum Qualifications: • Horticulture Certificate(s) or equivalent experience is required.

• Excellent public relations skills are required.

• Ability to supervise other employees.

• Ability to to make independent decisions • Working knowledge of WorkSafe BC Regulations and safe work procedures is preferred.

• Valid BC Class 5 Driver’s License. Submission of a Drivers Abstract is required.

• Ability to work in all weather conditions, including extreme heat and rain and perform physical labour which includes walking, lifting, and maintenance work with a shovel and rake.

• Preference will be given to applicants with experience in landscaping, gardening or working towards Horticultural Certification.

• Ability to work weekends.

This position is primarily focused on flowerbed planting and maintenance.

Typical duties include designing and preparation of flowerbeds, gardening tasks involving the cultivation of a variety of flowers and plants in large garden areas, planting, weeding, fertilizing, and pruning numerous varieties of plants, flowers, shrubs, bushes, and trees and assists with scheduling, training, and supervision of parks and greenspace staff.

Employment Term: • Employment will commence in April and will terminate in October.

Pay Rate: • Probationary Rate: $29.39 per hour. Upon successful completion of the 600 hours probationary period, the pay rate will increase to $30.27 per hour.

Applicants are invited to submit their resumes by 2 pm on Monday, March 21st, 2022 to:: District of Invermere Attn: Andrew Young, CAO and Kindry Luyendyk, Corporate Officer PO Box 339, Invermere, BC, V0A 1K0 Fax: 250-342-2934 • Email: corporateservices@invermere.net

February 24, 2022 ...Continued “Climate” from page 3 “Some individuals may have misconstrued or misunderstood what was presented,” said Invermere Chief Administrative Officer Andrew Young.

At the Jan. 14 meeting, Young had outlined how several of the district’s strategic priorities had been accomplished throughout the fall, and had also presented a list of possible future strategic priorities. None of these new possible priorities related to climate change.

Councillor Gerry Taft then suggested that that’s where the confusion may have arisen, saying that typically the district’s strategic priorities have included short-term or medium-term actionable items, such as a specific report or a specific bylaw (short-term) or projects such as the concept planning the for Lake Windermere Resort (LWR) lands undertaken last year (medium term), rather than long term items such climate change and sustainability.

“I think there’s a lot of misunderstanding,” said Taft.

He suggested, to avoid such confusion, that the district may want to consider developing a list of overarching long-term priorities, such as climate change or affordable housing, which would be separate from, although ideally complementary to, the short-term and medium-term priorities in the district’s strategic priorities list.

The Columbia Valley Pioneer • 17

Rockies weekly roundup- Week 19 Submitted by Mark Teterenko The final week of the regular season wrapped up on Saturday night after the Rockies finished week 19 with two more wins.

On Friday Feb. 18, the Rockies were in Fernie playing their second-last regular season game against a tough Ghostrider squad. Knowing that Fernie could very well be the Rockies’ first round matchup in the playoffs, the game certainly had a bit of a playoff atmosphere to it. Kyran Gromnisky (25) got things started for the Rockies at 8:52 from Owen Hughes (11) and Drew Tkachuk (13). The Ghostriders countered later in the period at 17:20 before Jakob McLean (12) restored the Rockies’ lead at 19:19 on the power play.

The second period had quite a bit of back and forth with loads of physicality and scoring opportunities but it was ultimately the Ghostriders who struck first on the powerplay at 13:55. After settling down and continuing to battle, leading goal-scorer Kayde Kinaschuk (29) got the Rockies on top once

HELP WANTED

HELP WANTED

Early Childhood Educator/Infant

(Servicing the Valley since 1999)

We’re Hiring!

Full time, year-round

Portable Services Truck Driver/ Vacuum Truck Operator Columbia Valley Sewer & Drain Ltd. is a locally run and operated company that serves the Columbia Valley area with Septic and Portable toilet services.

We are currently looking to immediately fill the position of a Portable Services Truck Driver/Vacuum Truck Operator.

Description of duties for this position include: • Servicing and washing of the portable toilets • Delivery and pickup of portable toilets • Pump out septic tanks and mud pits • Operate company vehicle and equipment in a safe and responsible manner • Managing time and delivery/service routes in an efficient manner • Providing exceptional customer service skills Job type: Permanent, full-time Qualifications: • Valid Class Three (3) driver’s license with Air Certification • Clean driver’s abstract Additional skill requirements: • Good understanding of the Columbia Valley geographics • Being physically able to lift, carry and/or push objects weighing more than 50 lbs.

• Strong organizational and time management skills • Strong interpersonal skills; with customers and colleagues • Ability to learn scheduling software to manage the provided delivery/ service routes Schedule: Monday to Friday, with some weekend on-call work.

We offer: • Competitive compensation with bonuses • Training for an exceptional applicant without experience • $30-$35/hr based on experience and group benefits This is an excellent opportunity for the right person to create a career with a fast-paced, growing company. Please email your resume to fraser.cvsd@ gmail.com, or if you have any further questions regarding this position, please call Fraser directly at 250-688-1271. Thank you in advance to all applicants, however, only those selected for interviews will be contacted.

Full-time (40 hours per week) Sonshine Children’s Centre is a community initiative and ministry of Lake Windermere Alliance Church. It is the realization of a long-term vision to provide a non-profit government-licensed childcare facility that meets a need in our community while demonstrating God’s love for all children.

• • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • •

• • • •

Responsibilities and Duties: Provide a daily balance of active/quiet, indoor/outdoor, and individual/ group activities Establish and carry out a daily activity schedule that incorporates child directed activity, care routines, and transition Organize environment, equipment, and materials before activities Assist children in expressing themselves by listening and responding with questions or comments that extend conversation Use a variety of teaching techniques including modelling, observing, questioning, demonstrating, and reinforcing Encourage and assist children to practice self-help daily Provide positive guidelines such as redirecting, positive language, and positive reinforcement Ensure positive communication with parents by discussing the programs daily events and their child’s daily progress Attend to children’s physical needs for toileting, diapering, eating and sleeping as promptly as possible Work to maintain a neat, clean, and organized classroom Complete monthly attendance schedules and Sign In/Out sheets Maintain confidentiality of all information related to the Centre’s children, their families, and the staff Actively participate in Sonshine Children’s Centre community activities and fundraisers whenever possible Attend monthly staff meetings Maintain regular attendance and punctuality Attend professional development workshops and in-services Maintain a positive working relationship with other Sonshine Children’s Centre staff Qualifications/Education: Current License to Practice as an Early Childhood Educator/ Infant Toddler Educator Up to date immunization record Childcare First Aid certificate Completion of Criminal Record Check Wage: Wages will be based on education and experience Applicants should submit a cover letter and resume to: Jenn Broadfoot, Sonshine Children’s Centre Manager 320-10th Ave P.O. Box 280, Invermere, BC V0A 1K0 250-341-6224 • manager@sonshinecentre.com

again at 17:58 of the second period assisted by Reed Sparrow (7). The third period had much of the same intensity and battling as the first two, but goaltender Nicholas Grady (33) stood tall stopping 28 of 30 shots en route to another Rockies win.

Saturday’s matchup against the Golden Rockets was back at home at the Eddie Mountain Memorial Arena in front of a very solid crowd of 364.

Similar to the game on Friday night, this game had a very playoff-like atmosphere to it with increased intensity, a lot of body-checking, and scoring opportunities going both ways.

Through the first two periods, there was no scoring as both the Rockets goaltender and the Rockies Goaltender Scott Thompson (30) were on top of their games. Golden broke open the scoring shorthanded at 5:07 of the third after a mishandled giveaway before Reed Sparrow (7) quickly answered the bell to tie the game at one a piece at 6:29.

Continued on page 19...

HELP WANTED Building 8 units in Kicking Horse and 10 at Panorama.

Hiring framers, plumbers, tile setters, top wages. Permanent hire or by the job. Contact provincewideconstruction@ gmail.com The Farside Pub is looking for front end staff, as well as kitchen staff. Apply with resume at the Farside in Fairmont. 250-3456106.

BCYCNA CLASSIFIED BUILDINGS FOR SALE INTEGRITY POST FRAME BUILDINGS since 2008. Built with concrete posts. Barns, shops, riding arenas, machine sheds and more. sales@integritybuilt. com. 1-866-974-7678. www. integritybuilt.com

FOR RENT

MLS# 2461991

GENTLEMAN SENIOR seeking senior for shared living in luxury Victoria condo. Offering entrance, balcony, bedroom, bathroom, living room & shared kitchen. $650 mth + cooking, cleaning & companionship. P.O 39089 James Bay, Victoria, B.C. V8V 4X8

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

HEALTH

Dreaming of Summer?

1609 Lower Lakeview Lane $2,350,000

Geoff Hill PREC* REALTOR® Fair Realty

250-341-7600

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

GET UP TO $50,000 from the Government of Canada. ALL ages & Medical Conditions Qualify.

Have a child under 18 instantly receive more money. CALL BRITISH COLUMBIA BENEFITS 1-(800)-211-3550 OR Send a Text Message with Your Name and Mailing Address to (604) 739-5600 For Your FREE benefits package.

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

18 • The Columbia Valley Pioneer ...Continued “Hockey” from page 4 Goals were scored by Liam Galloway (4), Cooper Cote (5), Jake Gramlich (3), Ryker Chasse, Lane Warriner, Tobin Donahue, and Jordan Maville (2).

Assists were Jordan, Tyler McGowan (2), Cooper, Liam (2), Tobin (2), Ryker (3), Jake, Memphis Martin, Lane, Gage Nyuli (2) Lewis Turgeon, and Chayton Martin.

The U15 team hosted Golden on Saturday, winning a close game 3-1. Spencer Goldsmith and Ethan Spencer both scored in the first period so the locals were ahead

February 24, 2022 after 1, 2-0. Then Golden scored to make it 2-1, and Ethan scored again to make it 3-1. There was no scoring in the third period. Connor Lapointe and Thomas each had an assist.

The U13 team met Kimberley at the Eddie on Sunday, losing the game 8-1. Crosby Vernon scored the lone goal, assisted by Bryce Konge scored the lone goal for the Rockies.

U7 minor hockey team and coaches smile for the camera

...Continued “Water” from page 13

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.

It’s for this reason Living Lakes Canada supports the creation of a dedicated Watershed Security Strategy and Fund for B.C., to guarantee continued government support for important water-related study. The Province of British Columbia has begun developing the Watershed Security Strategy and Fund with Indigenous Peoples and in collaboration with other levels of government. A discussion paper has been published and the public is invited to provide feedback up until March 18 at 4 p.m.

Pacific Time.

Just as the Province subsidizes fossil fuels, forestry and farming, now is the time for the Province to consider water in the same way and seriously commit to funding watershed protection.

According to a 2021 report, B.C.’s watershed sector adds an estimated $5 billion to the provincial GDP. Watersheds also have immense cultural and spiritual value, and afford us opportunities to get outside, connect with nature and recreate. Most importantly, watersheds give us water, and water is life. In a 2021 poll, B.C. residents declared water as their top environmental issue of concern.

Now is the time to tell the

Submitted photo

provincial government why you’re concerned about your local watershed and how water protection can be improved to secure our future.

To share your thoughts, complete the survey at https://engage.gov. bc.ca/watershedsecurity.

Living Lakes Canada facilitates collaboration in monitoring, restoration, and policy development initiatives for the long-term protection of Canada’s lakes, rivers, wetlands and watersheds impacted by climate change.

As a member of the BC Watershed Security Fund Coalition, Living Lakes Canada is part of the collective voice advocating for a BC Watershed Security Strategy and Fund. Visit livinglakescanada.ca.

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.

One of Living Lakes Canada’s water monitoring programs, Kootenay Watershed Science, is working to improve understanding and prediction of how small- and medium-sized watersheds are going to behave in a changing climate.

Photo submitted by Living Lakes Canada

February 24, 2022

FAITH

We have a divine connection, His name is Jesus

By Pastor Wayne Frater Radium Christian Fellowship There is a crisis of grand proportion in the world today the moral fiber of our world has eroded. Power, greed, idolatry, and pleasure are the gods of today. It doesn’t have to be that way, we can choose to follow Jesus and be obedient to what He wants in our lives. Obedient to His plan. We can make a difference.

Jeremiah chapter 1:4,5 “Then the word of the Lord came unto me, saying, Before I formed thee in the belly I knew thee; and before thou camest forth out of the womb I sanctified thee, and I ordained thee a prophet unto the nations.”

Ordained means to be set apart and appointed.

God told Jeremiah He had set him apart. What that means is that God had a specific purpose for him, we also were created for a specific reason, each of us were created on purpose for a purpose. We need to grab on to that, no one accidentally came into this world. God had us in mind before we were born.

This is a message we need to hear! This is a message the world needs to hear, that God has them in mind; that God has a purpose and plan for their life! We have a reason for being here.

Jer. 29: 11-13 “ For I know the thoughts that I think toward you, saith the Lord, thoughts of peace, and not of evil, to give you an expected end. Then shall ye call upon

me, and ye shall go and pray unto me, and I will hearken unto you. And ye shall seek me, and find me, when ye shall search for me with all your heart.

Jeremiah was set apart and appointed, so are we, God has a purpose for us, and He has a plan for us, He has a calling for us. “set you apart” means to separate. In other words, God separated Jeremiah from the rest of creation for a specific purpose. God has a calling on our life for a specific purpose as well.

Today is a new day, a day of new beginnings, and I encourage you to seek after the Lord, ask Him what His plan is for you, where do you fit in, in what God wants to do, in your life, for this time and this place?

It is easy to begin blending in with what is going on around us, it is easy to worry, it is easy to live in fear, in what may happen, however God has called us, God has set us apart, according to Matthew 5:13 to be the salt in a world that needs much salt. To be light, in a world that needs much light. It is time for us to ask ourselves, as Christians, are we having a impact on our world? God has a plan for our lives, to make a difference, He has set us apart and He has anointed us to make a difference. He has empowered us with the Holy Spirit, and He has made a way with the Lord Jesus Christ who tells us in John 14:6 “Jesus saith unto him, I am the way, the truth, and the life: no man cometh unto the Father, but by me.

Let hope fill your heart and receive His mercy. Invite Him to unfold the wonderful plan He has for your life.

His plan to make a difference.

The Columbia Valley Pioneer • 19

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 ...Continued “Rockies” from page 17 Opportunities were plentiful for the Rockies following Sparrow’s goal and just over three minutes later, Jakob Mclean (12) gave the Rockies the 2-1 lead with assists from Jonah Fournier (26) and Tyson Tisdale (24). Scott Thompson (33) shut the door the rest of the way as the Rockies won their final game of the season 2-1.

The Columbia Valley Rockies now finish their 2021-22 regular season campaign with a final record of 30-9-2-1 amassing 63 points good enough for second place in the division just one point behind first.

Playoffs are now set to have the Rockies take on the Fernie Ghostriders starting on Tuesday Feb. 22.

Their first round schedule is as follows:

Columbia Valley Rockies (second seed) vs.

Fernie Ghostriders (third seed)

Game 1 – Tuesday, Feb. 22 at Columbia Valley – 7:30 p.m. MST Game 2 – Wednesday, Feb. 23 at Columbia Valley – 7:30 p.m. MST Game 3 – Friday, Feb. 25 at Fernie – 7:30 p.m. MST Game 4 – Saturday, Feb. 26 at Fernie – 7:30 p.m.

MST Game 5 – Monday, Feb. 28 at Columbia Valley – 7:30 p.m. MST Game 6 – Tuesday, Mar. 1 at Fernie – 7:30 PM MST Game 7 – Wednesday, Mar. 2 at Columbia Valley – 7:30 p.m. MST

Let’s get ready to pack the Eddie and cheer on the Rockies!

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

h e Pioneer ca T n

your message is resonating with residents and visitors alike.

The Columbia Valley Rockies salute the crowd after completing their 2021-22 regular season campaign going 309-2-1. Playoffs start Tuesday night at 7:30 p.m.

Submitted photo

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

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20 • The Columbia Valley Pioneer

February 24, 2022

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