Columbia Valley Pioneer, March 3, 2022

March 3, 2022 Vol. 19/Issue 9

The Columbia Valley Pioneer • 1

Your Weekly Source for News and Events

March 3, 2022

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2 • The Columbia Valley Pioneer

March 3, 2022

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March 3, 2022

The Columbia Valley Pioneer • 3

VALLEY NEWS

Columbia Valley home assessments shoot up in average single family home assessment value of any incorporated community in the Kootenay region. That’s a considerable ranking for Canal Flats, given that there are a total of 27 such communities. Only the Village of Slocan, in the West Kootenay, was higher, with a 51 per cent increase.

“We’ve seen significant increases across the board,” Kootenay Columbia Deputy Assessor Sharlynn Hill told the Pioneer. “That was the story throughout the Kootenays. Demand for housing is high. Supply is getting better, but is still limited, so pressure on prices is hot, and pushing up.”

Hill explained to the Pioneer that every single one of the 27 Kootenay communities saw at least double digit

By Steve Hubrecht steve@columbiavalleypioneer.com

percentage increases in assessed value of the average single family home, but that those percentage increases were noticeably larger in the region’s smaller communities, such as Canal Flats, than in its larger communities, such as Invermere.

But that’s because housing prices in larger communities were higher to start with, she noted. Hill put it this way: In a larger community, the average single family home assessed value may have been $400,000 the year before, for example. Now it’s $500,000 — an increase of 25 per cent. In a smaller community, the average single family home’s assessed value may have been $200,000 the year before. Now it’s $300,000 — an increase of 50 per cent. Even though the rise in assessment values in the smaller community looks much larger on a percentage basis, the rise in assessment values in terms of actual dollar amount was exactly the same — $100,000 — in both the larger community and the smaller community.

It’s official: housing prices in the Columbia Valley are up— way up.

Earlier this winter, valley residents received their property assessments in the mail from BC Assessment, and the results on paper confirm what everybody already anecdotally knew was happening here and elsewhere in the Kootenays— that home prices sky-rocketed in 2021.

In Invermere, the value of an average single family home soared 26 per cent, from $418,000 to $527,000.

In Radium Hot Springs, the value of an average single family house also leaped 26 per cent, from $315,000 to $397,000. But it was in Canal Flats that assessment values jumped the most (on a percentage basis), shooting up a whopping 43 per cent, going from an average single family home value of $194,000 to $277,000.

The 43 per cent increase in Canal Flats was the second biggest increase The assessed value of homes soared last year in the Columbia Valley, leaping 26 per cent in Invermere (left), 26 per cent in Radium (centre), and 43 per cent in Canal Flats (right).

Pioneer file photos

Resident asks for signs on wakeboard boat damage

By Steve Hubrecht steve@columbiavalleypioneer.com Lakeside summer days at Kinsmen Beach may be months in the future, but a concerned Invermere resident already thinking about those warmer temperatures — and the dozens of motorboats summer will bring to Lake Windermere — is asking Invermere council to consider putting up a sign educating boaters about the damage they may be causing.

Bill Ark sent his concerns and outlined his request in a letter, received by Invermere council during its Tuesday, Feb. 22 meeting.

“Wake boats are increasing in

numbers, in power, and in noise on Lake Windermere. They are also causing major sediment and toxic damage to lake bottoms shallower than 10 metres deep,” wrote Ark citing studies on this topic conducted in the Okanagan in 2016 and 2017.

Ark noted that the section of Lake Windermere that is adjacent to to the District of Invermere is only six metres at its deepest point during high water level (when spring runoff occurs) and, outside of this time, is often only about one-metre deep.

He suggested the mayor and council put up a sign to raise awareness among boaters about the damage wakeboarding boats and other boats with large wakes can potentially do. Ark suggested the sign could be attached to the Lake Windermere Ambassadors (LWA) signboard, could be put up by the boat launch in Athalmer, or could be set up somewhere else on or by the lake that the district has jurisdiction over.

Lake Windermere on a peaceful afternoon last September, 2021.

Pioneer file photo

Continued on page 13...

Continued on page 7...

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4 • The Columbia Valley Pioneer

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RCMP Report Submitted by Sgt. Darren Kakuno Detachment Commander Columbia Valley RCMP This past week, Feb. 21 through Feb. 27, the Columbia Valley RCMP responded to 38 calls for service. The following is a summary of some of the files our officers responded to.

• On Monday, Feb. 21 at 5:30 p.m.

Columbia Valley RCMP received information that two snowmobilers had become stranded in the upper Forster Creek drainage, west of Radium Hot Springs. Police requested the assistance of Columbia Valley Search and Rescue. Rescue volunteers

were able to extract the individuals early the next morning. No injuries were reported.

• On Friday, Feb. 25, a theft of fuel was reported to the RCMP. About 40 litres of fuel was siphoned from a truck that had been parked on Grainger Road in Canal Flats.

• On Saturday, Feb. 26, a resident of Windermere reported the theft of two dirt bikes from a property on Highway 93/95. Stolen sometime overnight was a green 1984 Kawasaki KX125 and a blue 1996 Yamaha WR250F. Anyone with information is asked to contact the Columbia Valley RCMP or Crimestoppers.

Minor Hockey Minutes U13 A team wins East Kootenay banner 4-2. The game was back and forth, with Cranbrook ahead 2-1, then the game was tied at the end of 2 peThe U13 (Peewee) A team won the East Kootenay riods. In the third, there was a penalty shot, the team banner for the first time since the 2006-2007 team had to kill two 5 on 3 plays, and during the game (before any of these boys were born). They played the each team had a goal called back. The team will go final game at the Eddie, with the Columbia Valley on to play in provincials (which they won the right Rockies (plus friends and family) watching and cheer- to do last week) in late March. On Saturday, Feb. 26, ing them on, winning against the Cranbrook team they beat Cranbrook. 4-2 and Fernie 6-1 to advance to the Sunday final. Goals throughout were scored by Jake Gramlich, Memphis Martin (2), Lane Warriner (2), Liam Galloway, Tobin Donahue (2), Cooper Cote (4), Gage Nyuli, and Ryker Chasse. Assists were scored by Tobin, Cooper (3), Tyler McGowan, Liam, Jake (2), Memphis, Ryker, Brent Siedl (2), and Jordan Maville. Both Sophia Bacon and Myan Twogood, the goalies, were excellent throughout the tournament. This was special, as the team had never ever won a tournament.

The U13 (Peewee) A team won the East Kootenay banner for the first time since the 2006-2007 team.

Submitted photo Continued on page 19...

Submitted article

CITIZEN OF THE YEAR 2021 CALL FOR NOMINATIONS

Who is your local unsung hero?

• Whose volunteer work has made our community (Spillimacheen to Canal Flats) a better place to live, learn, work or play?

• 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?

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.

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March 3, 2022

Local business launches shirts, stickers to help save bighorns

Clothing Company.

The company launched its ‘Slow Your Roll’ clothing and stickers back at the A Columbia Valley business has been end of January, and sales have been brisk lending its support to the cause of Radi- through February, Kootenay Clothing um’s bighorn sheep in a very visible way.

Company Owner Andrea Tubbs told the Kootenay Clothing Company began Pioneer. selling t-shirts, hoodies, sweatshirts, stick“I just thought t-shirts are something ers and bumper stickers emblazoned with we can do to help out,” said Tubbs.

‘Slow Your Roll, Save the Sheep’ logos a Tubbs reached out to Radium resifew weeks ago. The message is meant to dent Nicole Trigg, who had started the raise awareness about the detrimental ef- Help the Radium Bighorn Herd Facebook fect speeding is having on the village’s group to draw attention to the issue, and resident population of bighorns, and the Trigg readily agreed that a ‘Slow Your Roll’ company is donating 100 per cent of the clothing campaign would be of benefit. proceeds to efforts to help the sheep.

“Then it all just sort of came together The bighorns have been attracting from there,” said Tubbs. “The response has local and national attention through the been good.” winter, with what is on track to be a reWhen the Pioneer talked with Tubbs cord number of sheep fatalities stemming on Friday, Feb. 25, Kootenay Clothing from the animals being hit by vehicles in Company has sold 55 hoodies and sweatand around the village. A total of 14 have shirts and 42 t-shirts in less than a month, been hit since the sheep’s fall rut started in shipping them as far east as Ontario, and late November. Out of those 14 fatalities, as far west as the Lower Mainland. six occurred in November and December The result is that the clothing and 2021, and eight in 2022. The numbers sticker campaign has so far raised $2,222 are alarming, as on towards the wildlife overaverage, a given calpass. endar year sees about “We’re super excited 10 bighorns killed. to see people interestIn 2021, coinciding ed in the products, and with the TransCanamore importantly, interda diversion sending ested in the cause,” said huge traffic volumes Tubbs, adding that she’s through the Columstarted to notice ‘Slow bia Valley, that figure Your Roll’ bumper sticksurged to 15 sheep faers on a number of vehitalities. But even this Kootenay Clothing Company is sell- cles around the village. terrible record seems ing ‘Slow Your Roll’ bumper stickers “This is another poised to be broken in like this one, as well as clothing, to case of local people in 2022, with eight sheep help Radium’s bighorns. the community taking already killed only two Submitted photo initiative, and we apmonths into the year. preciate it very much,” Government agencies and the Village Radium Mayor Clara Reinhardt told the of Radium itself are making all kinds of Pioneer, adding she too has noticed an efforts to improve the situation, and a increasing number of ‘Slow Your Roll’ long-term solution in the form of a wild- bumper stickers around the community, life overpass and wildlife fencing is in the and that in fact her daughter recently put works. In the meantime, provincial Min- one on her vehicle to take to Calgary. istry of Transportation and Infrastructure Visit the Village of Radium Hot (MOTI) contractors are patrolling Radi- Spring’s live donation page for the overpass um Hill, just south of the village on High- at radiumhotsprings.ca/save-our-sheep/ way 93 to help make sure drivers aren’t or check out Kootenay Clothing Compaspeeding recklessly. ny’s campaign at www.kootenayclothingBut local residents and businesses are co.com/collections/save-the-sheep. also getting involved, including Kootenay

By Steve Hubrecht steve@columbiavalleypioneer.com

The Columbia Valley Pioneer • 5 We’re raising money for 2 replacement trucks and an ATV

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March 3, 2022

PERSPECTIVE

War in the digital age

Historical Lens

By Pioneer Staff info@columbiavalleypioneer.com It is an age like no other. An unprecedented level of fear is steadily rising as the world witnesses the Russia Ukraine crisis— incomparable to wars and disputes in years past.

From the surface it looks vaguely familiar — a distant memory that silently screams “déjà vu” to those who witnessed such pain in years past. Yet, as we’ve seen thus far, this crisis is uniquely different.

Rather than relying on brute force and mass weaponry (though that brutality is still obviously present), it seems to be relying on disinformation to destroy lives from the inside out — utilizing the power of technology to manipulate the public’s innate beliefs and stances surrounding the attacks.

Although Russia physically invaded its neighbour, Ukraine last Thursday, Feb. 24, they have previously been known to commit similar crimes in a cyber manner. The Government of Canada’s website states that “In 2014, Russia violated Ukraine’s sovereignty and territorial integrity by illegally occupying Crimea and Sevastopol. Since then, Russia has continued its aggressive actions and attempts to destabilize Ukraine through disinformation campaigns, malicious hybrid and cyber operations, and through military buildups in and around Ukraine.”

In a press release on Monday, Feb. 28, Brad Smith, President and Vice Chair for Microsoft refers to the company’s encounters with some of the cyber attacks firsthand: “As we look to the future, it’s apparent that digital technology will play a vital role in war and peace alike. Like so many others, we call for the restoration of peace, respect for Ukraine’s sovereignty and the protection of its people.

We not only look toward but will work for a future where digital technology is used to protect countries and peoples, helping us all to bring out the best in each other.”

With the recent Freedom Convoy 2022 movement here in Canada, there has been an increasingly widespread distrust in modern media. This war has brought attention to the privileges that we, as Canadians, have in regards to our media outlets. Not only are we able to access multiple sources— a luxury that government-regulated media as found in Russia does not have— but the reliability of news sources is increasingly transparent, with fact-checkers citing their sources within many articles themselves.

Despite the veiled threats of nuclear warfare and cold-blooded civilian casualties happening halfway around the world, it does not make the situation any less terrifying for those right here in the Columbia Valley. However, we do not have to be paralyzed by this fear.

Let’s take pride in being Canadian and use our privileges for good, either by simply not contributing to the spread of disinformation and educating ourselves before hitting the share button. Or you can help directly by donating, either to help those displaced from their homes or those risking their lives on the front lines. From Feb. 24 to Mar. 18, 2022, the Government of Canada is offering to match individual’s donations to the reputable Canadian Red Cross organization for Ukraine crisis relief. Visit donate.redcross.ca for more information.

Nine people stand outside in the mountains. C1834, October 1943, courtesy of Windermere District Historical Society

Response to “Radium’s bighorn sheep” Dear Editor, Response to Chris Espinel’s Letter to the Editor titled “Radium’s bighorn sheep” published in the Feb. 24, 2022 edition.

I fully agree with Chris’ concern, in fact in August 2020 I initiated an online petition in www.change.org website titled “Reduce Highway 93/95 maximum speed limit from Invermere to Windermere”, that currently got 398 supporters.

After several communication exchanges with Mr. Doug Clovechok – MLA Constituency I sent the petition to the Office of the Premier; this I did via email on January 13, 2021, that included 18 pages of supporters’ signatures.

On February 5, 2021, the Premier’s Office responded informing that the petition was forwarded to the Honourable Mike Farnworth, Minister of Public Safety and Solicitor General.

On March 29, 2021, Rob Fleming- MLA, Minister of Transportation responded to me and the petition co-signers (e-mail 298233 - Highway 93/95 speed limit).

For publishing constraints, I am editing the Minister’s response by only including the paragraph regarding the actions the Ministry committed to take.

“Thank you for your email of January 13, 2021, regarding safety on Highway 93/95 in the Windermere and Invermere areas.

Ministry staff are going to review the speed limit along this section of Highway 93/95. The review will take place during the peak summer season to ensure it considers the highway at its busiest. In addition to reviewing the speed limit, staff will explore opportunities to better facilitate access on and off the highway and assess the most recent collision data for this area to inform their work.

Ministry engineers consider many factors when setting speed limits, including the intended use of the road and its design speed, adjacent land use, intersections, accesses, traffic volumes, road characteristics such as curves and sightlines, and the route’s safety history” The Minister response was submitted with copy to: Premier John Horgan Honourable Mike Farnworth - Minister of Public Safety and Solicitor General MLA, Port Coquitlam Cory Schmidt, Area Manager, Roads Cranbrook Office One year has passed since Minister Fleming’s response to our petition; since to date I didn’t receive any further communication from the authorities, I am not aware if any action was taken or even if the speed limit review has taken place.

Edward Mayer, Invermere

The Columbia Valley

CANADIAN COMMUNITY NEWSPAPER AWARD 2013

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March 3, 2022

The Columbia Valley Pioneer • 7

a good deal highbe in Calgary in-person er in both Nelonce or twice every two “There definitely are both pros and cons to house prices “The other thing that’s really important to under- son (where the weeks or so. So they can rising. But it does affect affordability across the board.” stand is that higher property assessments do not neces- averaged assessed live here in Invermere, sarily mean higher property taxes. Many people seem to value of a sinenjoy the benefits of the Adrian Bergles, Canal Flats Chief Administrative Officer think that, but it’s not an automatic correlation,” Hill gle family home Columbia Valley lifetold the Pioneer. “If the assessed value of your property is $646,000) style, do the majority of goes up at roughly the same percentage as every other and Revelstoke their work from a home property in town, and the town’s budget stays the same, (where the averaged assessed value of a single family office, and commute to Calgary when they need to,” said you probably won’t see a big property tax increase.” home is $719,000).

Miller. “I’ve gotten to know a lot of people in the past Hill goes on to add, “But if the town’s budget inRepresentatives of the Columbia Valley’s three mu- two years who are doing just that.” creases, if the town buys a new fire truck or two, for in- nicipalities offered varying perspectives on the rise in asMiller added that in fact, he’s met people, working stance, then your property taxes will probably go up.” sessment values here. remote jobs, who have moved to Invermere from Ontario Hill also shared BC Assessment data, specifically “It’s a good news and a bad news story... It means ob- and even further afield. tracking quarterly single family home sales in Invermere. viously the village (of Canal Flats) is in demand. But also “It’s not surprising that real estate prices are up in It sees the overall number of sales spiking dramatically in one of the value pieces of Canal Flats is its somewhat low- the valley, and all over the Kootenays,” Radium Mayor tandem with the onset of the ongoing COVID-19 pan- er cost of housing. So when that goes up, it affects a bit of Clara Reinhardt told the Pioneer. “When you have strong demic. the value within Canal Flats,” Canal Flats Chief Admin- demand and limited supply, prices go up.”

In 2019, the last full year before the pandemic start- istrative Officer Adrian Bergles told the Pioneer. Bergles Reinhardt said there may be a connection between ed, 56 single family homes were sold in Invermere. In added the village does have some options — through its the increasing house prices and difficulty of finding long 2020, the year the pandemic hit Canada, the number of zoning and its Official Community Plan — to create term rentals in Radium and indeed throughout the valley. homes sold here jumped up to 84. In 2021 it rose even lots and developable land, to help keep home prices there She explained that many homeowners who bought during more to 92. affordable. the valley’s 2004 to 2008 real estate boom may have been The median sale price of single family residential “There definitely are both pros and cons to house holding off from selling their property during the years homes went from $382,500 in the first quarter of 2019, prices rising. But it does affect affordability across the that the valley’s real estate market was stagnant, from to $434,000 in the second quarter of 2019, to $476,000 board,” he said.

2008 up to the start of 2020. In the interim, they rented in the third quarter of 2019, and then up to $555,000 in “It is a big increase,” Invermere Mayor Al Miller told out those homes as long term rentals. But now that real the fourth quarter of 2019. In 2020, it began dropping, the Pioneer. “But really I believe that what we are seeing is estate is boomas the pandemic’s first wave left people in lockdown-like a catch-up, in some respects. If you look back not just in ing again, these “The pandemic is certainly conditions, with many choosing not to venture far from the past year or two, but instead over the past five or even h o m e o w n e r s playing a role.” their own homes, let alone buy new ones. In the first ten years, maybe even all the way back to the 2008 crash, are selling, and quarter of 2020, the median sale price of single family what you see is that housing prices were pretty level for a the new homeAl Miller, Invermere Mayor residential homes in Invermere was down to $418,000, long time. It couldn’t stay level forever, obviously. It had owners buying falling to $407,500 in the second quarter of 2020, then to go up again some time. I think that’s what we’re seeing these places are dropping even further to $390,000 in the third quarter now, and that’s what I mean by a catch-up.” not interested of 2020. At this point, pandemic restrictions eased, and Miller said that increased assessment values simply in long term rentals, said Reinhardt. the flood of people seeking to leave urban areas and move reflect “the reality of where today’s housing market is. The She agreed with Bergles’s sentiment that a sharp into rural areas (such as the Columbia Valley) began. In real estate activity we’ve had here in Invermere in the past crease in home prices comes with both pros and cons, the fourth quar18 months has been considerable. That’s what’s saying “it’s tough” to label it entirely either good news or ter of 2020 the driving the higher prices.” bad news.

“Demand for housing is high. Supply is median sale A number of factors are creating that real Readers should bear in mind that the BC Assessment getting better, but is still limited, so pressure price of single estate activity, including the large number notices sent out in January reflect a home’s assessed price on prices is hot, and pushing up.” family residenof people who have moved to the Columbia as of July 1, 2021. tial homes in Valley in recent Sharlynn Hill, Kootenay Columbia Invermere had years. As the PiDeputy Assessor U-turned back oneer reported up to $464,000. last week, the In the first quarlatest 2021 center of 2021 it sus data shows dipped down to $407,000, then leaped up to $600,000 that Invermere’s populain the second quarter of 2021, settled down to $486,950 tion increased 15.5 per in the third quarter of 2021, before once again rising in cent, Radium’s increased the fourth quarter of 2021 to $540,000.

72.6 per cent, and Canal A decade ago, homes in Invermere were noted for Flats increased 20.1 per Join our team of passionate being the priciest in the entire Kootenay region, but cent. staff working together to this year’s BC Assessment date shows that has changed “The pandemic is strengthen the places we love. quite a bit. Home prices in Invermere are now close to certainly playing a role. being on par with those in Golden (where the averaged People have learned that assessed value of a single family home is $518,000) and they can have a job that is Rossland (where the averaged assessed value of a single based in Calgary, but that Currently Recruiting: family home is $504,000), and, in fact, home prices are they really only need to ...Continued “home assessments” from page 3

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8 • The Columbia Valley Pioneer

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Season starts April 11th and April 25th for T-Ball Thank you to our 2021 season sponsors: • Fraser Marine • Peak Exteriors • Canadian Tire

• Great West Appraisal Inc. • Atkinson Promotions • HTH Contracting

www.cvlittleleague.ca columbiavalleylittleleague@gmail.com

HEALTH RELATED PROJECTS

Spring Funding 2022 The Invermere Health Care Auxiliary Society is pleased to invite non profit organizations to apply for funding for projects that will enhance health care and healthy living in our community.

The source of funding for the IHCAS is the Invermere Thrift Store, 130 volunteers working tirelessly to strengthen health initiatives in the Columbia Valley.

Applicants are required to be qualified donees as required by CRA. For Funding Applications and instructions and any questions please email: seona@shaw.ca.

Deadline for applications being received is March 25th, 2022.

Successful applicants will be notified mid April 2022

FOI and Privacy We want to hear from British Columbians about BC’s freedom of information and protection of privacy law.

Share your views by March 31, 2022.

For full details, visit www.leg.bc.ca/cmt/foi or call 250-356-2933 or toll-free 1-877-428-8337.

Special Committee to Review the Freedom of Information and Protection of Privacy Act

www.leg.bc.ca/cmt/foi

March 3, 2022

Guest falls off chairlift at Panorama Mountain Resort

safely as possible.

“The incident is being further reviewed by our team,” said Paccagnan.

Further details about the incident were not given in Following anecdotal reports of a skier or snowboarder falling off the chairlift at Panorama Mountain Resort the statement, including the age of the guest, or whether over the weekend, the Pioneer contacted the resort to ver- the guest fell at a point at which the chairlift is relatively high off the ground or relatively close to the ground (such ify these accounts. as near the “I can confirm a guest loading or unfell off the chairlift on the loading spots), Mile One Quad at apwith Paccagproximately 12:45 p.m. nan noting on Sunday, Feb. 27,” Panthat the resort orama President and Chief did not want Executive Officer Steve to comment Paccagnan told the Pioneer, further out of on Monday, Feb. 28, readrespect for the ing a prepared statement. guest and the Paccagnan added that guest’s family.

Panorama’s pro patrol and Paccagnan mountain safety team responded to the incident expressed well wishes to the immediately and arranged guest and famfor the guest to be transily on behalf of ferred to a higher level of People gather at the base of Panorama Mountain Resort for a beautiful care at the local hospital by the resort and day of skiing and snowboarding last March.

Pioneer file photo all its staff. helicopter as quickly and

By Steve Hubrecht steve@columbiavalleypioneer.com

Large puddles on 13th Avenue won’t be an issue for long Warmer temperatures contribute to draining issues on newly-paved road drainage system for the road, including some natural swales, is still set to be completed in the spring and summer.

Warmer temperatures and “There is still some work melting snow have made the to be done. Although the “ Once the work is done, and the newly paved 13th Avenue a bit road and path is paved, not swales are seeded, that area will drain of a splash — quite literally — all the work was entirely properly.” with Invermere residents, with a done before the ground froze couple of them calling the Pioneer and construction had to Al Miller, Invermere Mayor recently to complain about the stop,” Miller told the Pioneer. large puddles on the road there.

“There is an area that is high, The stretch of 13th Avenue it’s forced up a bit, and that’s heading south from J.A. Laird Elementary School to what’s causing the issue. Once the work is done, and Westside Road was the site of major sewer and water the swales are seeded, that area will drain properly.” upgrades last summer (and will be again this coming The swales, when finished, will resemble small summer), and the work entailing repaving the road. natural ditches with grass.

When phase one of the work was completed earlier this past fall, the smooth surface was a welcome boon for drivers accustomed to the much rougher surface that previously existed there, but residents’ words of praise turned to grumbles a few weeks ago, and then again earlier this week, coinciding with above-zero degrees Celsius conditions.

Residents were curious as to how such large puddles could exist on such a new road, and pointed out they were an obstacle both for pedestrians walking on the paved pathway as well as for vehicles on the road.

Snowmelt puddles have confronted pedestrians and southbound trafFear not, however, as Invermere fic on 13th Avenue in recent weeks.

Photo by Ryan Watmough Mayor Al Miller explained that the

By Steve Hubrecht steve@columbiavalleypioneer.com

March 3, 2022

The Columbia Valley Pioneer • 9

Skier: Cassidy Gray Photo: Alpine Canada Alpin

WE WELCOME THE WORLD! WATCH VIDEO HIGHLIGHTS + LIVESTREAMING

Panorama2022.com

COME UP AND CHEER ON TEAM CANADA! Racing until March 9, 2022

10 • The Columbia Valley Pioneer

March 3, 2022

OUT OF OFFICE… Attention employers

and job seekers!

We are having a Career and Job Expo on March 10 at the Invermere Community Hall, where over 20 businesses from all over the Valley will be in attendance, ready to accept resumes and interview on the spot. Come learn, explore, mingle, network, meet employers, explore jobs, careers and enjoy!

There will be something here for everyone of all interests, ages, skills and skill levels.

Maybe you want a fun summer hanging upside down at Valley Zipline Adventures or ripping around at Ozzie’s Amusements. Perhaps you always wanted to enter the craft beer industry as a Beerista or Manager at Arrowhead Brewing Company.

You could learn about the fast-growing clean energy sector with Kootenay Solar! Explore your possibilities with

positions for all interests, including a receptionist, sales associate, electrician, solar installers, and labourers.

Columbia Valley to keep you busy this summer and beyond.

Maybe you are a numbers person with an interest or background in accounting. Aspire would like to meet with you about their Accounting Technician Role. Maybe you love community involvement in conjunction with a trade, or retail service. Home Hardware will be here hiring many positions.

Those are just a few of the businesses attending the Job and Career Expo. Stop on by, say hi, have a resume handy and learn about what the valley has to offer!

Let’s not forget that spring is right around the corner, and as we all know, the hospitality industry will be in full swing as the golf courses open. If you are looking for a career or part time job in any facet of hospitality, there will be several businesses onsite to meet with. From Panorama to Bighorn Meadows, to Fairmont Hot Springs, and Copper Point Resort, there are opportunities all throughout the

Please note, as this is an in-person event, we will be following all public health orders in place CONTACT US at the time.

TODAY AND

HAVE YOUR BUSINESS FEATURED 250-342-2844

March 3, 2022

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

Friday, March 4 • 5 p.m.: Fancy Friday at the Station Pub. Come dressed in your best for a fun evening out with special dinner features. See you there!

Saturday, March 5 • 1–4 p.m.: Join CV Arts for a 2-class workshop: Clever Creatures in Clay. March 5 and 12, come to Pynelogs if you are a kid or kid at heart. Price is $50, ages 6-16. We will sculpt, dry, kiln fire and decorate.

Sunday, March 6 • 1-3 p.m.: Try Hockey for girls ages 10-16. Come out if you are interested in trying hockey (doesn’t matter what skill level), come out to see if hockey might be something you’ll like. Join students from DTSS for some hockey fun at the Eddie Mountain Memorial Arena.

Thursday, March 10 • 2 p.m.: Job Fair and Career Expo at the Invermere Community Centre. Learn about employers, career and employment opportunities in the valley. Bring your resume, as employers are ready for on-the-spot hiring. Networking and refreshments are available.

Ongoing Events

Thursdays • 9-11 a.m.: Strong Start sessions, a drop-in program for parents/ caregivers and their children ages 0-6. Thursdays are at Martin Morigeau Elementary (Canal Flats). Call 250-409-4251 to reserve your space.

• 10-11:30 a.m.: Free Parent and Tot Connect by Family Dynamix for children ages 0-6 at the Early Years Center; 926 7th Ave in Invermere. Contact mferster@fdx.family or text/ call 250-341-8678 to register.

• 10:15 a.m.-1 p.m.: Tech Time Thursdays, Invermere Library. Free tech support for your computer, phone or tablet? Call the library to make an appointment: 250-342-6416

Thursdays

• 1:30-4:30 p.m.: Tech Time Thursdays at the Radium Library. Free tech support for your computer, phone or tablet. All day between 2 different locations!

• 10:30 a.m.: Seniors Fitness. Drop-in seniors fitness class at the Columbia Valley Centre for $2/ class. Proof of Vaccination required.

• 3 p.m.: Free Youth Drop-in Fun at the Summit Youth Centre. After school fun for grades 7-12. Free food, safe hang-out spaces, Friday skate nights, virtual reality, gaming computers and the music room. Masks mandatory.

• 6:30 p.m.: Darts, cards and cribbage at the Invermere Legion every Thursday.

• 7 p.m.: Drop-in adult dance classes. Join Confi-Dance athletics on Thursdays for Burlesque. More at confidanceathletics.com .

Fridays • 9-10:30 a.m.: Momfit and preschool group at the Columbia Valley Centre. Proof of vaccination required for caregivers. Invermere Public Library Story time follows at 10:45 a.m.

• 9-11 a.m.: Strong Start sessions, a drop-in program for parents/ caregivers and their children ages 0-6. Edgewater Elementary. Call 250-409-4251 to reserve your space.

• 10:45 a.m.: Family Storytime at the Invermere Public Library. Join for stories, songs and crafts.

• 12 and 5 p.m.: Edgewater Legion wing day Fridays! Noon: Takeout, 5 pm dine-in, call 250-347-9725.

• 1 p.m.: Free youth Drop-in Youth Fun at the Summit Youth Centre. Come for some after school fun for grades 7-12. Free food, safe hang-out spaces, Friday skate nights, virtual reality, gaming computers and the music room. Masks Mandatory.

• 1 p.m.: Seniors’ duplicate bridge: Costs $2 at the senior’s hall (must be vaccinated).

• 4-8 p.m.: Pub grub at the Invermere Legion every Friday and Saturday.

• 5:30 p.m.: Magic the Gathering. Come for Friday Night Magic and Play Magic the Gathering. Entry $10-$40 depending on format. Call 250-342-3440, no registration but space is limited (ages 10+).

• 6 p.m.: Rotary Community Bingo: Must be 19+ to play. Join us to raise money, give back, have fun, and support local. Visit us on Facebook to purchase your bingo card.

• 7:30 p.m.: Beer league hockey in Canal Flats. Send an email to badgershockey2019@ gmail.com for details, carpool from Invermere available.

Saturdays • 4-8 p.m.: Pub Grub at the Invermere Legion, Every Friday and Saturday: Wings and Things.

The Columbia Valley Pioneer • 11

Sundays • 9 a.m.: Bottle drive Rotary/Kinsmen Fundraiser. On Sundays and Mondays, the Rotary Club collects refundable bottles at the Invermere Transfer Station, this money goes right back into the community.

• 1:30 p.m.: Seniors Cribbage: Costs $2 in the senior’s hall (must be vaccinated)

Mondays • 9 a.m. Bottle drive: Rotary/Kinsmen Fundraiser. On Sundays and Mondays, the Rotary Club collects refundable bottles at the Invermere Transfer Station, this money goes right back into the community.

• 10:30-11:30 a.m.: Seniors Fitness. Columbia Valley Community Centre on Mondays and Thursdays ($2). Masks and Vaccines required. Email events@invermere.net or call 250-342-9281 ext. 1232 and leave a message with your name.

• 1:30 p.m.: Seniors Carpet Bowling. Join us for $2.00 at the senior’s hall, must be vaccinated.

• 4-7 p.m.: Youth LGBTQ+ & Allies Drop-in. Come to the Summit Youth Hub for after-school LGBTQ+ drop in and hang out in a safe space, age 12-18 welcome.

• 5-7 p.m. Strong Start: (a drop-in program for parents/ caregivers and their children ages 0-6). Mondays are at Eileen Madson Primary, a light dinner will be served. Call 250-409-4251 to reserve your space.

• 6:30 p.m.: Poker Night at the Station Pub: Chip up for Charity with funds going to the Columbia Valley Youth network. Every Monday at 6:30. Bar is open, light snacks available (must be 19+).

Tuesdays • 9-11 a.m.: Strong Start: (a drop-in program for parents/ caregivers and their children ages 0-6). Tuesdays are at Edgewater Elementary. Call 250-409-4251 to reserve your space.

• 10 a.m.: Free Parents and Tot Connect: by Family Dynamix for children ages 0-6 at the Early Years Center; 926 7th Ave in Invermere. Contact mferster@fdx.family or text/call 250-341-8678 to register.

• 3 p.m.: Free youth Drop-in Youth Fun at the Summit Youth Centre. Come for some after school fun for grades 7-12. Free food, safe hang-out spaces, Friday skate nights, virtual reality, gaming computers and the music room. Masks Mandatory.

• 6 p.m.: Drop-in Adult Dance Classes: Join Confi-Dance athletics on Tuesdays for Cheerfit.

• 7 p.m.: Drop-in Adult Dance Classes: Stick around for adult Hip-Hop. More at confidanceathletics.com • 6:30-8:30 p.m.: Second Winds Community Band Rehearsal: Meet every Tuesday at the Invermere Catholic Hall. Dust off your old instruments and join the band! Contact Ian at 250-342-9733 for more info.

• 8 p.m.: Games night at Ullr Bar: Every Tuesday is games night at Ullr, $5 cover. Fun prizes to be won!

Wednesdays

• 9-11 a.m.: Strong Start, a drop-in program for parents/ caregivers and their children ages 0-6). Eileen Madson Primary. Call 250-409-4251 to reserve your space.

12 • The Columbia Valley Pioneer

March 3, 2022

Researchers ask public for help protecting B.C. bats killed, and populations have declined by more than 90% in some species. Two species present in BC— litdisease and tle brown and northern bats—are now listed as Endangered under federal Species at Risk legislation. As a key predator for many invertebrate species, bats are essential parts of BC’s ecosystems, and they provide billions of dollars of economic benefit to North America by helping control agricultural, forest, and urban pests.

The disease was first detected on the west coast close to Seattle in 2016, and has since spread to several counties across Washington State. Biologists say the arrival of WNS in BC is imminent, and people should be on the lookout for affected bats in all regions of Dead bats can contribute important information on disease spread. Always wear gloves southern BC. when handling dead animals.

Photo by Miller Continued on page 18...

Submitted by the Kootenay Community Bat Project The province’s bats are threatened by researchers are asking the public for help.

The Kootenay Community Bat Program, in collaboration with the Province of BC, are asking the public for help in the effort to detect and prevent the spread of White-Nose Syndrome (WNS) in British Columbia’s bat population. Residents are asked to report any bat activity observed in winter, when they should be hibernating, and any sick or dead bats found before May 31, 2022.

White-Nose Syndrome is a fungal disease that is harmless to humans, but has devastated North American bat populations. The fungus attacks bats while they are hibernating, appearing on their wings and faces to give an appearance of a white nose. Bats often wake to clean the fungus from their skin. This uses valuable

energy, and finally the bats die from hypothermia and starvation.

Across North America, millions of bats have been

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.

March 3, 2022

St. Patrick’s Day “Tea for Two” delivery Money raised goes towards Stephen Louis Foundation’s ‘Grandmothers to Grandmothers Campaign’

Submitted by Luana Gillies The Valley GoGo Sisters are again hosting the St. Patrick’s Day “Tea for Two” that could be delivered to your door on Thursday, Mar. 17. It will include 8 homemade goodies and two tea bags.

It has been 15 years since the Valley GoGo Sisters (GoGo means grandmother in parts of Africa) held their first St. Patrick’s Day Tea and Bake Sale, and every year since 2007, the money raised has been donated to the Stephen Lewis Foundation’s Grandmothers to Grandmothers Campaign. Last year was our first attempt to carry on the tradition in the midst of the pandemic by changing to a home delivery option.

The Stephen Lewis Foundation (SLF) launched the Grandmothers Campaign in March 2006, in response to the emerging crisis faced by African grandmothers as they struggled to care for millions of children orphaned by the HIV/AIDS pandemic. Without hesitation or complaint, Africa’s grandmothers have stepped in to care for them. Currently it is estimated that there are almost 11 million AIDS orphans under the age of 15 in

sub-Saharan Africa.

The SLF Grandmothers Campaign are equal partners with grassroots organizations of African grandmothers, who in turn strive to nurture, feed and educate their grandchildren. They work to generate income, teach their grandchildren and others about HIV prevention care and treatment, tend to the sick in their communities, help the recently bereaved, set up support groups, harvest the crops, and advocate for women’s rights.

The SLF Grandmothers Campaign currently boasts more than 240 grandmothers’ groups across Canada, the Valley GoGo Sisters being one of the most long standing. The $114,000, which they have raised since 2007, has had a huge impact on the lives of grandmothers, and the children in their care, on the other side of the world.

You may order a “Tea for Two” for yourself or as a gift for a loved one. The cost is $25. A limit of 50 orders will be sold and orders must be received by March 7.

Contact Luana Gillies, 250-342-9600 or email lu.gillies@telus.net for more information or to place your order.

The Columbia Valley Pioneer • 13 ...Continued “wakeboard” from page 3 He noted that some boaters will surely ignore the sign, but that many may be simply unaware of what their boats can do.

“Imagine a quiet lake with calm kayaks, canoes, sailboats, paddle boards, and swimmers only. That would be respectful and nice for us, and be clean for future generations,” wrote Ark. Council members were generally receptive to Ark’s letter, and agreed to forward his letter on to the LWA and ask for that group’s input on Ark’s suggestions.

“I don’t disagree with some of the points raised,” said Invermere Councillor Gerry Taft. “Sometimes some signage can be effective…even if it doesn’t carry any legal weight.”

Sun sets over the mountains at Lake Windermere Provincial Park.

Photo by Ryan Watmough

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

SCHEDULE A

¬

PUBLIC HEARING NOTICE – BYLAWS 3040 & 3041 – Bylaw Amendments – Windermere East The Regional District of East Kootenay (RDEK) Board of Directors is considering an application by 703641 BC Ltd., to amend the OCP and zoning designations of their property to allow for a subsequent subdivision and development of their property. The property is located along the east side of Highway 93 and 65, located within the community of Windermere, as shown on the attached map.

Bylaw No. 3040 cited as “Regional District of East Kootenay – Lake Windermere Official Community Plan Bylaw No. 2929, 2019 - Amendment Bylaw No. 5, 2021 (Windermere East / 0703641 BC Ltd)” will amend the OCP designation of parts of Lot A, District Lots 8 & 108, Kootenay District, Plan 17927, from RR, Rural Resource to C, General Commercial and I, Industrial.

Bylaw No. 3041 cited as “Regional District of East Kootenay – Upper Columbia Valley Zoning Bylaw No. 900, 1992 – Amendment Bylaw No. 370, 2021 (Windermere East / 0703641 BC Ltd)” will amend the zoning designations of parts of Lot A, District Lots 8 & 108, Kootenay District, Plan 17927, from A-2, Rural Residential (Country) Zone to I-1, Light Industrial Zone and A-2, Rural Residential (Country) to C-1, Community Commercial Zone and P-2 Public Parks and Open Space Zone and from SH-2, Small Holding Semi-Rural Zone to C-1, Community Commercial Zone.

A public hearing will be held via Zoom webinar conference: Wednesday, March 16, 2022 at 5:30 pm.

The Board has delegated the holding of this hearing to the Directors for Electoral Area F, Electoral Area G and the District of Invermere. If you believe that your interest in property is affected by the proposed Bylaws, you may prior to the hearing: • inspect the Bylaws and supporting information by requesting that an information package be emailed to you by contacting dlucas@rdek.bc.ca. Information packages may be requested up until Monday, March 14, 2022 at 4:30 pm; • mail or email written submissions to the addresses shown below before Monday, March 14, 2022 at 4:30 pm; • present verbal submissions at the public hearing.

A-2 to C-1

A-2 to I-1

SH-2 to C-1

A-2 to P-2

TO PRE-REGISTER visit the Meetings page on rdek.bc.ca and choose Public Hearings & Meetings This is Schedule A referred to in Bylaw No. 3041 cited as “Regional District of East Kootenay – Upper Columbia Valley Zoning Bylaw No. 900, 1992 – Amendment Bylaw No. 370, 2021 (Windermere East / 0703641 BC Ltd).”

You must pre-register in order to attend and provide verbal presentations or make comments at the hearing. The deadline to register is: Monday, March 14, 2022 at 4:30 pm.

Register in advance for this webinar: https://us06web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_i6vjZCRVQHSU2or-aZTPPg Please note that a question and answer period will not occur during the Zoom webinar conference. You must address any questions relating to the bylaws to the planner prior to the above date.

SUBMISSIONS CANNOT BE ACCEPTED AFTER THE PUBLIC HEARING. All submissions will form part of the public record and will be published in a meeting agenda posted online. Personal contact information such as phone and email will be removed from written submissions.

Questions about the disclosure of your personal information may be referred to the Corporate Officer at 250-489-2791 or 1-888-478-7335.

This notice is not an interpretation of the Bylaws. For more information, contact Darren Lucas, Planner, at 250-489-6903, toll free at 1-888-478-7335, or email dlucas@rdek.bc.ca.

Chair

Corporate Officer Date

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

14 • The Columbia Valley Pioneer

March 3, 2022

HERE TO SERVE YOU

CONCRETE I N

P U R S U I T

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.

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

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)

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

CONTRACTING

CONTRACTING

CONTRACTING

Kekuli Bay Cabinetry

Richard Vernon – Master Plumber & Gasfitter

kekulibaycabinetry.com

250-688-4868

ST

BROAD

&CON T R A C T I N G

LTD

PLUMBING

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

Specializing in all heating, electric, gas and wood.

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

Professional Painting & Decorating Ltd. 1978 FREE Estimates

Local Resident

CUSTOM WOOD FINISHING FAUX FINISHES JOURNEYMAN RED SEAL

A licensed, registered and bonded company

We also offer roundthe-clock service calls.

403-650-4622 • garysptg@gmail.com

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

CARPET CLEANING

CARPET CLEANING

Enjoy life, we’ll clean it up!

Call NOW:

250-688-0213

• 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 Visit www.heavensbest.com for more information

• Authorized dealer • Designer • Installer

Dale Elliott Contracting

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

dale@decontracting.ca • 250-341-7098 PHARMACY

LAMBERT-KIPP

PHARMACY (2019) LTD. TILE AND GROUT CLEANING Business: 250-342-9692

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

Cell: 250-342-1273

ptarmiganrugclean@gmail.com

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

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

1301 - 7th Avenue, Invermere

250-342-6612

SHUTTER BUGS WELCOME We love a good photo submission. If you have a snapshot to share, email info@columbiavalleypioneer.com

March 3, 2022

The Columbia Valley Pioneer • 15

HERE TO SERVE YOU INSURANCE

INSURANCE

SERVICES

(Servicing the Valley since 1999)

INSURANCE AGENCIES LTD.

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

• Septic Tank Pumping • Portable Toilet Rentals

BOX 459 7553 MAIN STREET RADIUM HOT SPRINGS, BC V0A 1M0 P: 250-347-9350 F: 250-347-6350 TOLL FREE: 1-866-342-3031

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

NEW SEWER CAMERA

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

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

LANDSCAPING THE COLUMBIA VALLEY’S CHOICE FOR

C E R T I F I E D TreeT Pruning REE EXPERTS Tree Removal Stump Grinding FireSmart Treatmemts Certified. Insured. WCB Coverage

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

•

•

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

250-347-9803

www.kootenayinsurance.ca

WINDERMERE, BC 250-341-7029

• •

GOLDEN, BC 250-344-0188

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!

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

SERVICES

Scott Postlethwaite

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

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

Free Estimates

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

KITCHEN CABINETS & COUNTER TOPS

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

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

4879 Hwy 9395 Fairmont Hot Springs BC, V0B 1L1

Trenton Mailo Service Technician mailoheating@shaw.ca

Mailo Heating and Cooling

All Makes and Models Tire Sales and Installation

Beat the fall rush ~ clean your Chimney this spring!

141 Industrial Rd. 2 • 250-342-9424 • Open Monday - Friday, 8:30 am - 5:30 pm Your Weekly Source for News and Events

N E W S PA P E R

Lerissa McLaughlin

Sales Representative

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

invermereelectric@gmail.com

250-270-0324

• • • •

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

Sales ~ Service ~ Installation

UNIVERSAL DOORS & EXTERIORS Arnold Scheffer 250-342-6700

unidoorext@live.ca • unidoorext.ca

Industrial ~ Commercial ~ Residential

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

Please recycle this newspaper

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

N E W S PA P E R

16 • The Columbia Valley Pioneer

P ioneer C lassifieds S

OBITUARY

S

Stieger, John F. 1922 – 2022

John was born in Hamburg, Germany August 19, 1922, and moved to Canada to Valleyfield, Quebec at the age of 2. He was fluent in both German and French.

During WWII, John enlisted in the Canadian Armed Forces on August 18th, 1942, just shy of his 20th birthday.

He had excellent mathematic skills, especially in trigonometry, and because of this he was selected to serve in a newly created special regiment (only 2 in the Canadian Armed Forces) called “the Second Royal Canadian Artillery Survey Division.”

Once the war was over, John attended McGill University obtaining a Bachelor of Commerce degree. After university he worked for IBM Canada in Toronto retiring in 1983. He then moved to Niagara on the Lake with his wife Norma. John quickly became involved in the community, and he was named citizen of the year in 1988, for his tireless devotion to active volunteering. His best-known volunteer work was with the “Lifeline” program. This device allowed the elderly to safely remain in their homes in spite of medical conditions, by providing a computerized “help” emergency line they could easily access at all times.

After the passing of his wife Norma in May of 1999, John moved west to join his son Jay in Bragg Creek, Alberta. In 2010, John moved with Jay and Denise to Invermere, and later moved into the residence of Columbia Garden Village in November 2012.

He resided there until his passing on February 14th 2022.

John was a sports enthusiast and a die-hard Habs (Montreal Canadiens) and Aloutte’s fan. Some of his favourite things were enjoying rouladen at the Black Forest Restaurant, barbequed hot dogs, and all televised sporting events.

At 99 years of age John lived a long and happy life. He felt fortunate to share his life and memories with his family, and to be a part of his great grandchildren’s lives, delighting in their joie de vivre.

John was a kind and gentle person, he had an infectious smile, positive attitude, loving heart and nurturing soul. He had appreciation for the simple things in life and he will be sadly missed by all that knew him.

John was predeceased by his wife Norma Stieger (MacDonald) and son Jay Stieger (John).

He leaves to mourn; his daughter-in-law Denise Stieger of Invermere, his grandchildren Kiersten (Mark) of Calgary, Lauren (Daryl) of Edmonton, Tarilyn (Ryan) of Redwood Meadows, Brooke (Julian) of Southlake, Texas, his great grandchildren Lucy, Edie, Lenna, Kaydence, Evan, Chloe and Alexis.

The family would like to thank the staff at Columbia Garden Village, Invermere Homecare, Nursing staff at Invermere Hospital and the doctors at The Invermere Medical Clinic for their care over the last 6 months.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in John’s honour to the Salvation Army. There will be a Memorial Service held in July.

Arrangements entrusted to McPherson Funeral Services.

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

N E W S PA P E R

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

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

CHEERS WITHOUT TEARS

CHEERS WITHOUT TEARS

CHEERS WITHOUT TEARS

CHEERS WITHOUT TEARS

Cheers to Chester, a true polymath: engineer, pilot, mathematician, poet, musician, carpenter, inventor, innovator, welder, rancher, gardener, handyman, father, grandpa, husband, friend... Humanity desperately needs more people like him.

Double Cheers to Roi at Roi’s Resale for his beautiful customer service!!

Cheers to Jill Logan for taking time from her busy schedule to help a senior with some important personal papers. Your genuine kindness is very much appreciated.

LISTINGS NEEDED!

Cheers to Gwen Stewart, home care nurse extraordinaire, for not only bringing help to our home but also bringing happiness to our home.

S OBITUARY S BUCKLEE, Joanne Louise

February 22, 1947 – February 12, 2022 Joanne Bucklee of Calgary, AB, passed away on Saturday, February 12, 2022 at the age of 74 years.

Joanne was born in Oshawa, ON, on February 22, 1947. She graduated high school in Edmonton, AB. Joanne completed her studies in Library Sciences at the University of Toronto and the University of Calgary, obtaining both BSc and Master’s degrees.

She began her career in the post-secondary education network in 1976 at Grand Prairie Regional College. Joanne enjoyed a successful career as an educator, working at GPRC, Mount Royal College and finally as the Registrar and Dean of Trades & Technologies at Red Deer College. She was a member of the Alberta Council of College Librarians and was instrumental in standing up the REACH program in Red Deer. Joanne had a special place in her heart for the Soroptimist Club. She also volunteered for the Royal Canadian Legion, Branch no. 71.

Joanne traveled extensively across Canada, the United States and Europe with her close friends. She was a true outdoors enthusiast. On any given day, Joanne could be seen out and about in Radium Hot Springs, BC, enjoying the sunshine with her beloved dog, Lochie, and more recently her Westie dog, Kensie. Joanne enjoyed kayaking, canoeing and hiking, and was active in the Invermere curling community.

Joanne will be most remembered for her intelligence, kindness, caring, generosity, thoughtfulness and open-mindedness. She will be missed by all those who were fortunate enough to have known her.

Joanne is survived by relatives Margaret Heddle, of Airdrie, AB, Larry and Gail Kobitzsch, of Hardisty, AB, Verlene Olsen, of Chilliwack, BC, Barb Potter of Courtenay, BC; and many other cousins across Canada and the United States. Joanne was predeceased by her parents, Charles and Anne Bucklee, and great-aunt Ella Howard.

Graveside Service will be held at Queen’s Park Mausoleum.

Condolences, memories, and photos may be shared and viewed at www.McInnisandHolloway.com.

In living memory of Joanne Bucklee, a tree will be planted in the Ann & Sandy Cross Conservation Area by McInnis & Holloway Funeral Homes, Park Memorial, 5008 Elbow Drive SW, Calgary, AB T2S 2L5, Telephone: 403-243-8200.

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

March 3, 2022

Cheers to the Columbia Valley Pioneer for their artistic and relevant cover page every week.

Belated cheers to them, too, for their excellent coverage of our local Olympic athletes.

Cheers to Renee at Mark’s for the excellent customer service and being so helpful and friendly.

“Cheers to all the dog owners who are keeping Mount Nelson ATHLETIC Park so nice and clean.

Super to see this civic pride!”

Cheers to Glow360 and the new Tempsure Envi Eye Treatment!

Immediate results. Highly recommend to everyone!

CHEERS to the Valley’s dental hygienists. They go into our bacteria & spit-filled, garlicbreath mouths, to clean our crusty, yellow teeth, so that we can chomp down on food we need to live and not be afraid to SMILE. Cheers to my neighbour Linda for taking in and repairing my coat. You’re awesome!

IN MEMORIAM CHRIS EVANS MARCH 4TH, 2020.

In Loving Memory of You No Morning dawns or evening falls When we do not think of you.

In Spirit , Heart, and Memory, Love Lives Forever.

We remember your Joy, your Laughter, Your smiles You live your life in the Hearts of us all You have the Love of each of us.

Love Always Meaghan, Craig, Flo, Hannah and Charleen

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

ANNOUNCEMENT Steamboat Mountain Music Society ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING 7 p.m., Saturday, March 5th Edgewater Hall Annual Reports Plans for 2022 Festival Election of Directors Coffee/Tea & Dessert Music & Mingle Please bring proof of vaccination If you plan to come, RSVP 250-347-9860 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.

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.

March 3, 2022

The Columbia Valley Pioneer • 17

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

References. 1-250-426-4445

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 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

MISC. FOR SALE Laser inscribed CDN 0.74 ct. Diamond solitaire with matching band. Both white gold with certificates $2,500. Phone 250-345-2161 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.

FIREWOOD

SERVICES

HELP WANTED

Does your business need a bookkeeper ?

Currently accepting new clients rockies.bookkeeping@ gmail.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.

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

SERVICES

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

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

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

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 Geoff Hill PREC* REALTOR® Fair Realty

250-341-7600

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

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

Client Services and Logistics Eagle-Eye Tours is based in Windermere and is Canada’s largest birding tour operator, offering 50+ tours worldwide each year. To keep the show on the road, we need someone who can handle correspondence with our clients and help pull these tours off without a hitch. This is a long-term position where we can discuss your preferred number of hours/week (25+). You will have a variety of tasks to keep you busy from researching hotels in Australia to responding to clients interested in visiting the Arctic.

This job requires that you can manage multiple projects simultaneously.

Core responsibilities include: · Client correspondence (inquiries, invoicing, etc.) · Logistics (planning tours, booking hotels, vehicles and flights) Requirements include: · Strong computer skills · Ability to work independently · Excellent customer service skills · Excellent communication skills (written & oral) · Rigorous attention to detail and strong organizational skills · Ability to manage competing priorities · An interest in travel We offer a competitive wage, flexibility, interesting work, and a collegial positive work environment. We anticipate work beginning in April.

Please submit your resume and a brief story about a personal travel experience by noon on March 17th to Cam via eagle-eye.com/careers.

Ph: 250-342-8640.

Eagle-Eye Tours

We are hiring Program Coordinator

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

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.

Housekeeping Need Housekeeper for Vacation Home in Radium, B.C. 3 bedroom, 2 baths,1 car attached garage. Contact Richard 780464-4733 ricklemieux@shaw.ca

Dreaming of Summer?

Are you passionate about the environment and want to make a difference in your community? Wildsight Invermere is looking for an outgoing, motivated individual to work with our Branch Manager and dynamic Board of Directors. We are a long-standing, grassroots ENGO, dedicated to promoting environmental stewardship and community sustainability in the upper Columbia Valley.

This job offers an opportunity to carry out our ongoing programs and to develop new project ideas that support our vision and mandate. Details: 18-30 hours per week (negotiable); some weekend and evening work; salary based on experience; valid driver licence and access to vehicle; Canadian citizen or permanent resident.

DISTRICT OF INVERMERE

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

EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY Gardener 1 The District of Invermere has an opening for a Gardener (Permanent Position) within the Public Works Department.

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.

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

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

Core responsibilities include: • • • •

Program management and development Communication and outreach with Wildsight members and the public Write funding proposals, prepare project budgets, manage fundraising activities Implement strategic plan and work with Board of Directors Please see wildsight.ca/Invermere for full job description and application form.

Please fill out the application form online by 4 p.m., March 13, 2022.

For more information invermere@wildsight.ca .

N E W S PA P E R

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

18 • The Columbia Valley Pioneer

March 3, 2022

American badger sightings wanted for the Columbia Valley

Submitted by Rachel Darvill Did you know that there are American badgers living in the Columbia Valley? Southeastern British Columbia is the northern extent of where American badgers live.

Unfortunately, the American badger is an endangered species and needs our help!

Badgers have stocky and flattened bodies with short, powerful legs. As few as one hundred mature badgers live in the East Kootenay region. Here they are vulnerable to being wiped out from increasing threats like roadkill, the loss of open habitat needed, and urban development.

But, together we can work to keep them living here for generations to come. There is a new project supported by the Columbia Wetlands Stewardship Partners (CWSP) that is currently taking observational reports from the public - recording all badger roadkill sites, dens, burrows, and dead or alive sightings.

Leading project biologist Rachel Darvill states, “We are interested in knowing where American badgers are using dens in the Columbia Valley, especially where areas of high suitable badger habitat overlap with public crown land. These areas can be conserved through various reg-

ulations, but first we need to identify locally referred to as gophers). “Like where those important areas are.”

Badgers have large home ranges badgers, Columbian ground with hundreds of different burrows squirrels also live per individual. The burrows have an entrance that resembles a large elliptiin burrows, and at first glance it cal hole, often with a mound of dirt at the entrance. Badgers often change locan be confusing to distinguish cations daily and reuse burrows from these holes from year to year, making it important to the ones badgers ensure that unoccupied burrows are make,” says Darnot destroyed. Badgers use dens for American badger wanders alongside riverbank. denning, foraging, resting and as a Submitted photo vill.

Do you know source of shelter.

“We are also interested if any badger denning and where a badger lives, where a badger hole exists, or have burrow sites are found in areas that we have already desig- you seen a badger in the Columbia Valley before? If so, nated as wildlife corridors (through Kootenay Connect) please let us know by contacting the CWSP with your that are important to other large ranging species like griz- observations at badgersightings@gmail.com. This project is a partnership with Kootenay Connect and is financially zly bear and elk,” says Darvill.

“It has been shown that soil and prey availability supported by Environment and Climate Change Canada are the key defining features or requirements for badger (ECCC) through the Canada Nature Fund with equal habitat,” says Darvill. Their primary food source in our matching funding from local partners. region are Columbian ground squirrels (which are often

Regional Coordinator for the program.

Bat carcasses can be tested for WNS, and activWithout help from the public, detection of WNS ity reports may alert researchers to regions with unis challenging because bats in B.C. hibernate alone usual activity. If you find a dead bat or have sightings or in small groups across the province. Increasing the of winter bat activity, please report to the B.C. Comnumber of reports from the public is the best chance munity Bat Program online at www.bcbats.ca, via to understand how WNS might spread and affect local email at info@bcbats.ca or by calling 1-855-922-2287 bat populations, and how to respond. Though there (1-855-GOT-BATS).

As a result of this ongoing research, biologists are is not yet a proven cure for WNS, several promising treatment options are being developed, and it may be finding that healthy bats are also occasionally active in possible to mitigate the effects of this wildlife health winter, and that a few bats even choose to hibernate in crisis. woodpiles or under house trim. These sleeping bats “We are encouraging the public to report dead bats should be left alone — keep your distance, snap a phoand sightings of winter/ early spring bat activity to the to and report it to the BC Community Bat Program.

B.C. Community Bat Program,” says Elodie Kuhnert, If you must move a bat, visit www.bcbats.ca for advice and never touch a bat with your bare hands.

Please note that if you or your pet has been in direct contact with Journé mondiale de la prière the bat you will need further information England, Wales and Northern Ireland Angleterre, pays de Galles et Irlande du Nord regarding the risk of rabies to you and your “I know the pet.

Join us on plans I have In partnership with the BC Ministry of Enfor you.” ...Continued “bats” from page 12

World Day of Prayer

Artwork by Angie Fox Explanation

2022

Zoom

Reporting sleeping bats helps researchers learn what is “normal.”

Photo by R Pineau

at:

Freedom: Open door to a pathway across an endless open vista

MTG:

Justice: Broken chains, God’s peace and…

999 4276 6660

Forgiveness: The dove of peace and a peacy by breaking throught the pavement.

PASSCODE:

Love: Rainbow, a symbol of the overarching love of God

vironment, and funded by the Habitat Conservation Trust Foundation, Forest Enhancement Society of BC, Habitat Stewardship Program, and the Kootenay lake local fund, the BC Community Bat Program provides information and promotes local stewardship and citizen science. You can find out more about the BC Community Bat Program and options for helping local bat populations at www.bcbats.ca, info@bcbats.ca, or by calling1-855-922-2287 (extension.14).

happy

Saturday, March 12th, 2022 at 2 p.m.

Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints 5014 Fairway Dr., Fairmont Hot Springs, BC The meeting will be in person and on Zoom Contact Gwen Pratt 250-341-5219 for futher information.

Service written by the World Day of Prayer Committee of England, Wales and Northern Ireland.

Prepared and adopted for use in Canada by the Women’s Inter-Church Council of Canada.

Service rédigé par le Comité de la Journée mondiale de la prièrede Angleterre, pays de Galles et Ireland du Nord.

Préparé et adapté pour le Canada par le Conseil cecuménique des chrétiennes du Canada.

White-nose syndrome occurrence map – by year (2022). Downloaded 2022-02-10.

Available at https://www.whitenosesyndrome.org/where-is-wns.

Submitted photo

March 3, 2022

The Columbia Valley Pioneer • 19

FAITH

Empathy walls

By Brent Woodard Anglican/ United Church I’m reading Arlie Russell Hochschild’s book “Strangers in Their Own Land.” Ms. Hochschild is an American sociologist who spent 5 years in Louisiana, a Tea Party stronghold, seeking to understand how people there made sense of their lives. “The Economist” said of her book “It is an astute study of America’s culture war drawn from the perspective of the white conservatives who feel they are losing it… (It is) one woman’s journey across the political divide to an empathy with those on the other side.”

In her book, Ms. Hochschild talks about “empathy walls.” This is how she describes them: “An empathy wall is an obstacle to deep understanding of another person, one that can make us feel indifferent or even hostile to those who hold different beliefs or whose childhood is rooted in different circumstances. In a period of political tumult, we grasp for quick certainties. We shoehorn new information into ways we already think. We settle for knowing our opposite numbers from the outside. But is it possible, without changing our beliefs, to know others from the inside, to see reality through their eyes, to understand the links between life, feeling, and politics; this is, to cross the empathy wall? I thought it was.” ...Continued “minor hockey” from page 4 The U13 (B) House team tied the Cranbrook Female Bucks to share the banner for U13 House.

The final game was not completed due to an injury and since the two teams had tied 4-4 earlier in the tournament, it was determined that the teams would share the banner for the 2021-2022 year.

That means both local U13 teams will have a banner to hang at the Eddie. On Saturday, Feb. 26, the team beat Fernie 5-1, (where Sawyer got 4 goals), tied Elk Valley 2-2, tied Cranbrook 4-4 and then played Cranbrook in the final. Goals were scored

by Bryce Konge, Theodore Wilson, Sawyer Wight (5), Ethan Dewey (2), Crosby Vernon and Brayden Rice. Assists were scored by Jaecie Chursinoff,

Last Sunday the gospel reading included the instruction/invitation of Jesus; “Love your enemies.” That’s a lot to consider.

Really? And just when a reader like me wants to move on, the instruction/invitation went on to say something like (paraphrased) “it’s easy to love or be good to people who think like you and look like you and have the same political and cultural views as you, but I’m inviting you to do more, I’m inviting you to listen like you want to hear, and to consider why another person thinks differently than you, and why you get bothered by that other person.” It’s like Jesus invites his hearers to cross over an empathy wall.

Maybe we don’t want to show empathy to someone who doesn’t show empathy to us. Maybe we’re afraid that if we show empathy, it means we condone another’s point of view. Maybe we’re afraid if we show empathy people will think we are weak or don’t have an informed position ourselves. Maybe we’re just afraid.

It seems like there are considerable invisible walls between people. Like in World War I, we dig our trenches deeper and only want to fire bullets across “no man’s land.”

I appreciate how Ms. Hochschild truly chose to cross empathy walls with folks who had become, for whatever reason, “the other” to her. Sadly, it seems to me that what she did is something that is not done very often.

Brayden Rice (2), Tanner Cropley, and Hayden Walker.

The U15 team played in a tournament in Golden where they tied Golden 5-5 on Saturday, and beat Cranbrook 4-3. On Sunday, they lost to Trail 8-3 and to Cranbrook 6-5, in a game where they led at one time 5-1. They play in their banner tournament next week-end. Goals were scored by Tesslin Oliver, Chase Kinsey, Ryan Digney (6), Carson Scheffer (3), Everett Friesen (2), Calden Stanbury (2), Jack Andruschuk, and Tegegan Booth. Assists were scored by Ryan (3), Jack (2), Tegegn, Everett (2), Carson, Chase, Tesslin (3), Keegan Kelly, and Spencer Goldsmith (2).

Good luck next week!

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

Columbia Valley Youth Soccer 2022 Annual General Meeting Friday, March 11th 7 p.m. via Zoom.

U13 (B) House team on their way to winning the banner.

Submitted photo

Find us on Facebook to get the Zoom link.

20 • The Columbia Valley Pioneer

March 3, 2022

Is hearing loss giraffing you crazy?

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

Let us help find the right hearing solution for you.

“The team is courteous and prompt, and the professional staff are also very knowledgeable and thorough. They took time not only to test and fit my hearing aids, but also to educate me. I’d highly

2019

Chamber of Commerce Business of The Year Award Winner

recommend The Hearing Loss Clinic.”

Dr. Willem Meeuwisse Medical Director, National Hockey League Physician, Innovative Sport Medicine

2020

Chamber of Commerce Professional Services Excellence Award Winner

BOOK YOUR HEARING EXPERIENCE NOW! CRANBROOK CRANBROOK

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