Columbia Valley Pioneer April 21, 2022

April 21, 2022 Vol. 19/Issue 16

The Columbia Valley Pioneer • 1

Your Weekly Source for News and Events

April 21, 2022

The Columbia Valley

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TRANSIT

03 CLEANUP

05 TUFTING

The Rotary Club of Invermere named Sherry Dewey as its Citizen of the Year for 2021. Pictured here is Sherry’s husband Ian (left), Sherry Dewey (middle), son Fergus (top right), grandson Marshall (bottom right). Read the full article on page 4.

15

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2 • The Columbia Valley Pioneer

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April 21, 2022

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April 21, 2022

The Columbia Valley Pioneer • 3

VALLEY NEWS

RDEK will use temporary permits to regulate STRs

By Steve Hubrecht steve@columbiavalleypioneer.com The Regional District of East Kootenay (RDEK) will use temporary use permits (TUPs) in an effort to regulate short term rentals (STRs).

As reported in last week’s edition of the Pioneer, the RDEK has been working for more than a year to address escalating public concern about STRs. Those efforts culminated in RDEK board of directors discussions, on Thursday, Apr. 7 and Friday, Apr. 8, during which the board debated three options for dealing with STRs: using TUPs; using zoning bylaws; or requesting an order in council from the provincial government that would give the RDEK the power to issue business licenses, which could then be used to regulate STRs. In the end the board voted to use TUPs. These permits can be issued by the board for three-year terms, which can then be extended for a second three year term.

After that permit holders would need to re-apply. In discussing the pros and cons of the various options for dealing with STRs, RDEK planner Michele Bates noted that one of the advantages of the TUPs is that they allow the RDEK to specify conditions under which each STR operates, and also let the RDEK regulate the construction of buildings for STR use.

“They (board members) seem to be unified in supporting the TUPs,” Bates told the Pioneer, speaking the week after the meetings. “The flexibility in how the TUPs

can be used was seen as a major advantage.”

Among the other work undertaken in the lead up to the RDEK’s decision was an inventory of all STRs in the regional district. The regional rural district with the most STRs (by a large margin) was Rural Area F, which is part of the Columbia Valley, and which includes Dutch Creek, Fairmont Hot Springs, Windermere, Panorama Mountain Resort, and all of the developments along the east side of Lake Windermere between Windermere and the crossroads. This area had 609 unique STR listings between January 2017 and June 2021.

In comparison, RDEK Area G, which includes Dry Gulch, Wilmer, Edgewater, Brisco and Spillimacheen, only had 82 unique STR listings over the same four-anda-half year period.

The total number of unique STR listings across the entire RDEK was 1,200, meaning that — remarkably — STRs in Area F alone account for half of all STRs in the entire regional district.

“The decision to proceed with regulations triggers a new, detailed planning process,” said Bates. “There is a long list of items that will have to be considered in this next step of the process including, but not limited to: what the permits would regulate, how the STRs will be managed, what policies will be required, what the application process and fee structure will look like, what thresholds will need to be set, how TUPs could be revoked and how specific items such as parking and noise could be addressed.”

Proposed public transit system expansion stalls

By Steve Hubrecht steve@columbiavalleypioneer.com The Regional District of East Kootenay’s (RDEK)’s proposed expansion of the local Columbia Valley public transportation system is on hold, after the RDEK board of directors voted in favour of a motion that no further action be taken to obtain participating area approval for the proposal.

The vote came during the Friday, April 8 board of directors meeting.

“The directors want to examine what options we have within the existing system...The message was that the directors want a better service, giving the public access to affordable housing, education and employment, but that we first need to work with what we have, work within the existing boundaries, to create a better service.

They feel this is a fundamental first step before looking at a large-scale service expansion,” RDEK Corporate Officer Tina Hlushak told the Pioneer.

“We still have room within the existing bylaw (and its associated tax rate) to have some sort of modified

or scaled-back mini-expansion. We could theoretically still have weekend service, but on a scaled-back model as compared with what was proposed.”

The initial proposal envisioned adding a weekend service, increasing the number of bus services running north to Edgewater and Radium, and adding a within-Invermere service.

“The board indicated that the within-Invermere service wasn’t a big priority, but wants instead to focus on getting people into Invermere from outlying communities,” said Hlushak, adding there was also talk about changing the time of the existing service to better suit riders coming into Invermere for work or for education.

She explained that when the District of Invermere sent a letter to the RDEK outlining that it did not want to consent to the expansion proposal on behalf of its electors, “it was felt by the directors that we need to look at it (the issue of transportation) a bit more.”

Continued on page 7...

Bates told the Pioneer that one idea the RDEK will consider is asking TUP holders to display their permits in a visible location at their home, which would make it easy for the RDEK to check in a database (if somebody calls to complain) whether or not a given home actually is allowed to be used as an STR. “If somebody does not have a permit, then it would become a compliance issue,” said Bates, quickly acknowledging that with 1,200 STRs across the regional district, enforcing compliance of STR TUPs could become quite time consuming for the RDEK. “We currently have one compliance officer on staff, but even before this (STR) project we were looking to hire another. We will be doing that,” Bates told the Pioneer.

Figuring out all the details of exactly how the TUPs will work will be complex and will require more public consultation, explained Bates.

“That’s why, although we don’t have a precise projected timeline yet, we do know that, at the very least, there won’t be anything in place before 2023.”

RDEK Area F Director Susan Clovechok left the board of directors meetings during the discussion and vote on STRs to avoid a conflict of interest (her brother owns and operates a STR in the Columbia Valley), and Clovechok’s alternate, Laurie Klassen, sat in during the discussions and voted in Clovechok’s place.

Continued on page 8...

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4 • The Columbia Valley Pioneer

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RCMP Report

April 21, 2022

Submitted by Sgt. Darren Kakuno Detachment Commander Columbia Valley RCMP This past week, April 11 through April 17, the Columbia Valley RCMP responded to 50 calls for service.

The following is a summary of some of the files our officers responded to.

• On Monday, Apr. 11 at 8:30 a.m., Columbia Valley RCMP received a report of an overdue traveler. A group of friends had planned to camp at Twin Lakes near Brisco but one of the friends failed to show up. The RCMP, with the assistance of Columbia Valley Search & Rescue and the Conservation Officer Service, searched the area and located the missing person on Westside Road. The individual, who was found safe and uninjured, explained her vehicle had become stuck in the snow so she stayed with her vehicle overnight and decided to walk out in the daylight. Columbia Valley RCMP would like to thank

Search and Rescue and the Conservation Officer Service for their assistance.

• On Thursday, Apr. 14, a resident on 12th Avenue in Invermere found a plastic container with various jewelry in her yard. The owner can contact the Columbia Valley RCMP to claim the jewelry.

• On Friday, Apr. 15, emergency crews responded to a two-vehicle collision at the intersection of Athalmer Road and Lakeview Road near Invermere. The driver of a westbound Nissan Titan struck another Nissan Titan while attempting to make a left hand turn. No injuries were reported and both trucks were towed from the scene.

• On Friday, Apr. 15, Columbia Valley RCMP received a report of a stolen travel trailer from a fenced compound in Fairmont Hot Springs. A white 26’ Surveyor travel trailer was stolen from the property sometime overnight. The trailer had BC license WJW92V attached to it when it was stolen. Anyone with information is asked to contact the Columbia Valley RCMP or Crimestoppers.

Citizen of the Year

DISTRICT DISTRICT OF OF INVERMERE INVERMERE

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

NOTICE

of Watermain Flushing The municipality will be flushing its community water system for the next 6 weeks. This program, carried out twice yearly, is necessary to maintain the quality of our water supply. There may be some short interruptions in the water service and temporary discoloration of water as a result of the sediment and organic materials that are being flushed from the water mains. During this period, disinfection by chlorination will be continued. To assist the Public Works Department during the flushing operation, users are advised that if they are experiencing persistent discoloration or odour problems with the water, to immediately notify the Municipal Office and explain the nature of the problem.

The District apologizes for any inconveniences caused by this operation. For further information, please telephone the municipal office at 250-342-9281.

“Friends love her and depend on her”

tion in their own lives.

The Rotary chooses a local unsung hero every spring, seeking someone “whose volunteer work has The Rotary Club of Invermere named Sherry made the community a better place to live, learn, work, Dewey as its Citizen of the Year for 2021. Dewey is and play, whose exemplary civic engagement and deda well-known figure in the community, volunteering ication to others has had a profoundly positive impact with multiple nonprofit organizations, including The on quality of life, and lastly, who selflessly embodies Kidney Foundation, Wings over the Rockies Bird Fes- the spirit of the Columbia Valley through contributival, Windermere District Historical Society, Wild- tions to community projects.” All of which criteria sight Invermere, and the Valley GoGo Sisters (grand- harmoniously summarize Dewey.

The award followed a heartwarming nomination mothers helping African grandmothers).

Dewey brings a contagious smile and a willing from Luana and Barry Gillies. “Beyond her work with these organizations, Sherry is first spirit with her wherever she and foremost a compassionate ingoes, always offering to lend dividual who looks after the people a hand to those who need. around her. She is quick to offer a Her humility, compassion, ride for a senior who needs to get and giving heart are what to a medical appointment. She hapcontributed to her receiving pily looks after a friend’s dog if the the distinct honour —acfriend needs to be away from home,” companied of course by her countless hours of volunsay Luana and Barry. “Many times teer work around the com- President of the Rotary Club of Invermere in the past, Sherry has offered her munity. Community mem- Yvonne Redeker presents Sherry Dewey with the home and her heart to provide fambers and her family say she Citizen of the Year for 2021 award. Taken on ily respite. Friends love her and deprovides a sense of inspira- Thursday, Apr. 14.

Photo by Haley Grinder pend on her.”

By Haley Grinder haley@columbia valleypioneer.com

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April 21, 2022

No water quality monitoring on Lake Lillian

The Columbia Valley Pioneer • 5

PROFESSIONAL MOUNTAIN GUIDE Real Es tate

Local volunteer citizen monitoring is a possibility, if residents are interested gram project is not currently monitoring Lillian Lake, nor have issues been reported through its educational and citizen science Last week, while reporting on red- data gathering Algae Watch program.

“However, the description is similar to dish-brown scum found by local residents some reddish-brown sludge reported on a on Lake Lillian, the Pioneer reached out to the provincial Ministry of Environment different lake in the Okanagan, identified as likely being iron-oxidizing bacteria — to gain further insight into the issue.

The ministry responded just after not considered dangerous — rather than press deadline, explaining that the B.C. algae,” a ministry spokesperson wrote to Lake Stewardship and Monitoring Pro- the Pioneer.

The spokesperson encouraged location residents to visit the Algae Watch website for information on algae and other aquatic phenomena, and also advised that local residents interested in starting up their own volunteer citizen monitoring of Lake Lillian can do so under the B.C. Lake Stewardship and Monitoring Program.

To learn more about Algae Watch, visit www.gov.bc.ca/algaewatch.

To learn more about setting up a volunteer monitoring program, visit www2.gov.bc.ca/ gov/content/environment/reLocal resident saw flakes of reddish-brown scum search-monitoring-reporting/monitoring/lake-monitoring/volunthrough a fishing hole on Lake Lillian.

Photo by Norman Hendricks teer-lake-monitoring.

By Steve Hubrecht steve@columbiavalleypioneer.com

250.341.1967

MOUNTAI NLI FEHOMES.CA

Shoreline clean-up at Lake Windermere

By Chadd Cawson Local Journalism Initiative Reporter Earth Day falls on Apr. 22 this year and the Lake Windermere Ambassadors are inviting everyone to be part of the solution to pollution, beautifying our beaches for their Lake Windermere Earth Day Shoreline Clean-up. The clean-up will take place from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Saturday, Apr. 23.

Lake Windermere shoreline cleanups have been happening in both the spring and the fall with the Lake Ambassadors since 2012, even despite the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. “Luckily for the shorelines, we could still organize outdoor events last year, including our shoreline cleanups,” says Ellen Wilker, Program Assistant for the Lake Windermere Ambassadors.

“This included following public health guidelines to ensure everyone’s safety. Participants in past years were asked to wear a mask and use hand sanitizer, which was provided. They were also asked to register and participate in the cleanup with their household or core bubble and if they were feeling unwell, they were asked to stay home.”

Lake Windermere Ambassadors teams up with the Great Canadian Shoreline Cleanup every fall, a nationwide organization that helps facilitate events to take care of the environment.

“Our fall event this year is going to be a little different. We will still team up with the Great Canadian Shoreline Cleanup and have volunteers on the shoreline and in boats,” says Wilker.

Continued on page 9...

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6 • The Columbia Valley Pioneer

PERSPECTIVE

War has no victor

April 21, 2022

Historical Lens

By Haley Grinder haley@columbiavalleypioneer.com Nuclear anxiety is a very real thing, even more so now in the 21st century when it is no longer an irrational fear, but an event of actual possibility. To entertain the thought for even a millisecond is mind bendingly terrifying and easily enough to overwhelm a person.

The question remains then; what is the point? Who wins? The answer, quite simply, is nobody.

Yet, that isn’t even the scariest part. If President Volodymr Putin gets his way, he will have created a sea of brainwashed soldiers, so hell bent on saving themselves that they kill others to do so. The overarching concept is the exact same as any other war in the history books, but why? How can it be the exact same after we’ve progressed as far and as fast as we have in the last century?

This war holds more weight as humanity already has the technology to effectively end a civilization in a day. If you destroy homes, hospitals, or a city’s innate infrastructure as a whole, you effectively kill society. Or at least society as we know it.

Our society is highly interconnected. Whether it be by global technological communication or worldwide trade routes, it seems as though humanity has realized that we function better as a team. We progress faster. We have more. Our greatest asset isn’t going to be nuclear forces, it’s going to be a form of appreciation. Appreciation for what other countries bring to the table the exact thing we may be lacking.

Do not mistake optimism as naivety. The horrors executed by Putin over the past two months are nothing short of evil and should be reprimanded at a minimum.

Millions lost their homes, their friends, and their families. Their lives. But we as Canadians can help. We have to help.

But we also need to remember that, as the crisis gets worse, we do not foster hate towards Russians. Putin, sure, but not their citizens or the country as a whole.

Their minds are being manipulated and they are potentially on their way to being exiled by the world. If we succumb to the intense hatred towards them, that they feel towards Ukrainians, then we are no better than them. As a global society, we must realize that in order to remain at peak strength, we must work together and support one another.

The Columbia Valley has long been known for its ability to stand together in tough times, only amplified in the past few years during the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. Let us take #valleystrong and morph it into #humanitystrong, embracing each other not by nationality or ethnicity, but by the exact thing that makes us all the same— our humanity. Our ability to yearn, to eat, to cry, to embrace, to dance, to enjoy, and to love.

Car on dirt road through canyon. Sinclair Canyon, Radium Hot Springs. C1849 circa 1920s, courtesy of Windermere District Historical Society

Stop the spray of glyphosate Dear Editor, The Government of B.C. recently released their proposed 2022-2027 Pest Management Plan for the Chilliwack and Sea to Sky Natural Resource Districts. The plan has caused controversy as it permits the spraying of glyphosate-based herbicides to kill certain plants in the area. There are many valid objections to this decision, but I will focus on the issue from a health and safety perspective.

During question period on Mar. 31, Katrine Conroy, Minister of Forests, said, “the effects of glyphosate on human health has been really extensively reviewed by international regulatory agencies, including Health Canada, with the conclusion being that exposure to glyphosate does not pose a carcinogenic or general toxic risk to humans.” While

the Minister correctly notes that Health Canada authorized the chemical for use, this fact alone excludes a vital part of the story. Glyphosate is currently back under review after the Federal Court of Appeal ruled that Health Canada defied its own rules for regulating herbicides. Additionally, the Minster fails to mention that WHO’s s International Agency for Research on Cancer— arguably, a superior body to Health Canada classified glyphosate as a “probable carcinogen” in 2015. Many studies have linked certain levels of exposure to the chemical with non-Hodgkin lymphoma and leukemia subtypes.

Due to health concerns, the city of Vancouver has banned the use of the chemical with very few exceptions, as have entire countries, such as Germany.

Continued on page 7...

The Columbia Valley

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The Columbia Valley Pioneer is available free of charge at 13 essential businesses in the Upper Columbia Valley, limited to one copy per reader.

This publication has been made possible, in part, by the Government of Canada and the support of our advertisers and is published every Thursday. The Columbia Valley Pioneer may be distributed only by its authorized contractors and employees. No person may, without the prior written consent of The Pioneer or its Publisher, take more than one copy of each issue of The Pioneer. The content is protected by copyright. Reproduction by any means is prohibited except with the permission of the Publisher.

April 21, 2022

LETTERS

...Continued “Pest” from page 6 Of course, it’s challenging to have a sincere, transparent discussion about glyphosate’s safety. Monsanto has spent millions on lobbying against efforts to regulate the chemical. There is also well-documented evidence of the company interfering with scientific studies on glyphosate, whether through financing studies or directly editing their content before publishing. There is concern Monsanto influenced some of the studies Health Canada used to re-authorize the chemical. Bayer, Monsanto’s parent company, is also a registered lobby group in Canada.

There are legitimate, robust studies that suggest glyphosate is non-carcino-

...Continued “transit” from page 3 BC Transit has access to technologies that it didn’t back in 2020, when work on the proposed transit expansion began, and perhaps those can be incorporated into the existing Columbia Valley transportation system to boost ridership, added Hlushak.

One such technology is an app that will allow the public, with a glance at a smartphone, to know the bus’s exact location.

“That would provide a benefit in having a better idea of when a bus might arrive at a particular spot, but it also could give us better data on informal stops, which can help us better serve the riders,” said Hlushak.

Radium Mayor Clara Reinhardt had been a big supporter of the proposed transit expansion.

Speaking after the meeting, she said “I do think something will happen eventually. I’m not going to give up hope.”

Invermere Mayor Al Miller had expressed concerns about the proposal before the meeting, and after the meeting he told the Pioneer “basically the reason it is on hold is that we would like to see some more information from BC Transit. It’s almost a one-size fits all transportation system they have, and out here

genic. However, there are also legitimate, robust studies that suggest the exact opposite; these studies don’t have corporate fingerprints on them either. Thus, to say that glyphosate is conclusively non-carcinogenic, as Minister Conroy did, isn’t true.

In this instance, glyphosate is being sprayed to kill plants competing with trees grown for harvest in the region. The public’s health and the environment should not be sacrificed for profit, especially in a time of pandemic and widespread ecological decline.

Katie Watt, Fairmont Hot Springs

in the valley it’s been difficult building ridership with that. We know the timing of the current schedule does not work, but simply doubling the existing service comes with high costs.”

Miller pointed to what he called the “inflexibility” of BC Transit’s current model.

“That inflexibility is one of the key concerns...There needs to be more flexibility in the times when the buses are running. For instance, for the longest time, they ran deadheaded (with no passengers) to Golden both ways. That’s where their base was, and they had no flexibility on changing it, even though ridership didn’t start until Edgewater,” said Miller. “You look at that — the wasted fuel, the wasted time, the wasted cost — and you knew it could be done better.”

BC Transit is scheduled to present to the RDEK board of directors and its next meeting in early May. “I really hope they’ve got some new news for us, some new options,” said Miller. “It’s a tough subject...

The importance of public transit is clear. Nobody’s arguing that. But we have to have a system that works for the Columbia Valley. We want to make sure we have something suitable, rather than just expanding what’s already in place and doesn’t work.”

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

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

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

The Columbia Valley Pioneer • 7

Make a difference in the Columbia Valley!

Local Emergency Support Services volunteers help provide immediate relief and support to people impacted by disasters in the Regional District of East Kootenay.

Become an ESS volunteer today.

Learn more: engage.rdek.bc.ca/ess Canadian Red Cross

Percy M. Ritchie

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8 • The Columbia Valley Pioneer

April 21, 2022

WE ARE CELEBRATING! Hans Sander’s

90 & th 25 Birthdays th

Drew Gray’s

You are invited!

Saturday, April 23rd 1 - 4 p.m.

Invermere Canadian Legion Join us for birthday cake, tea and coffee.

NO GIFTS PLEASE

DISTRICT DISTRICT OF OF INVERMERE INVERMERE

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

TENDER

SANITARY AND STORM SEWER FLUSHING SERVICES

The District of Invermere invites tender submissions from qualified companies for:

Sanitary and Storm Sewer Flushing Services This service is for a 5-year period from August 1st, 2020 to July 31st, 2025 for approximately 31 km of sanitary sewer mains and 6 km of storm sewer mains. Tender process and contract will be to Master Municipal Construction Document Standard. Copies of the tender documents can be obtained at the municipal office (914 - 8th Avenue) after Monday June 22nd or on the District website www.invermere.net.

Sealed quotes, marked “Sanitary and Storm Flushing Services” can be delivered no later than 12 noon, local time, Monday, July 13th, 2020.

The District of Invermere reserves the right to waive formalities in any quote, or reject any or all quotes, or accept the quote deemed most favourable in the interest of the municipality.

Contact Information: District of Invermere Kindry Luyendyk Interim Chief Administrative Officer Box 339, Invermere, BC, V0A 1K0 Telephone: (250) 342-9281 Fax: 250-342-2934 • cao@invermere.net

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

Lake Windermere Ambassadors warn of dangers of wake boat damage Nonprofit group wants to conduct boat carrying capacity study the Ambassadors, going to later add that wake boats have been shown to uproot sensitive aquatic vegetation and re-suspend sediments and contaminants in the water colThe Lake Windermere Ambassadors are sounding umn, if the boats are being driven in water less than six the alarm about the need to educate wake boat users to eight metres deep, which can negatively impact water about the potential damage done by their watercraft to quality.

Lake Windermere, echoing concerns raised by a local res“It is important to note that Lake Windermere is ident earlier this year. around six metres at its deepest point and, on average, The nonprofit group sent a letter to Invermere three to four metres deep,” wrote the group. council, received during the Wednesday, Apr. 13 counThe Ambassadors added that they “frequently get cil meeting, referencing another letter previously sent to messages from concerned citizens on the impacts of council by local resident Bill Ark (and reported on in the boating in our shallow lake” and suggested the district Mar. 3 issue of the Pioneer) outlining his concern about of Invermere create a campaign, connect with concerned wake boats. citizens, coordinate stakeholder meetings, and ultimately “Several studies have been done on the effects of create a viable and effective plan to deal with wake boats. wake boats on shallow lakes, and their conclusions supThe group explained that it is seeking to conduct port Mr. Ark’s position concerning the negative impacts a boat carrying capacity study, in order to “gain better of wake boats... As wake boats increase in popularity and insight into the damage we are doing to our lake”, and wake boat technology advances towards increasing wave asked for the district’s support. sizes, the potential damage to our lake needs to be mon“In order to restrict wake boats, current Transport itored and conCanada boattrolled,” wrote the ing regulations Ambassadors. require a reThe group striction of all noted that tradipowered watertional boats (i.e. craft,” wrote the boats that are not Ambassadors, wake boats) create adding that an waves that typieffort (spearcally dissipate in headed by the about 30 metres, Heffley Lake once the boat is Community planing, but that Association, studies show that near Kamloops) the distance needis currently uned to dissipate derway to ask wake boat waves Transport Canis ten times greatada to change er, at 300 metres. this regulation, “Undissipatand allow local ed waves gen- The Lake Windermere Ambassadors are raising concern about the effect of wake governments to Photo by Ryan Watmough apply for a speerated by wake boats on Lake Windermere. boats can erode cific ballasted shorelines, redistribute sediment, damage property and wake boat restriction in their respective areas. swamp nests and habitats of vulnerable species,” wrote “We would like to see the District of Invermere follow this lead because, as Bill Ark’s letter indicated, if we sit back and do nothing, the ecological health and comDISTRICT munity enjoyment of Lake Windermere is at stake,” conDISTRICT OF OF INVERMERE INVERMERE 914 – 8th Avenue, PO Box 339 cluded the group.

Invermere, B.C. V0A 1K0 Invermere council received the letter at the Apr. 13 Tel: 250-342-9281 • Fax: 250-342-2934 meeting, but did not discuss its contents.

SEEKING MEMBERS FOR THE MAYOR AND ...Continued “STR” way we’re going, that COUNCIL REMUNERATION COMMITTEE this will prompt the from page 3 The District of Invermere is looking for up to three (3) members of STR owners that are the public to be a part of this Committee whose primary purpose Clovechok, speak- really problematic to is to review the remuneration of Mayor and Council for the next ing the week after the be more respectful of term and provide recommendations. meetings, told the Pio- their neighbours. A neer, “I’m glad it’s gone lot of STRs here in the To be eligible, you must be an eligible voter of the District of that way (TUPs). I valley are being realInvermere. Interested persons are invited to submit written think they (TUPs) are ly well-run, but some applications on or before April 29, 2022 at 4:30 p.m. to: the best tool we have of them not so much, Karen Coté in the regional dis- and that is where some Director of Finance trict to regulate STRs. of the issues stem Box 339 Invermere, BC V0A 1K0 “I hope, now that peo- from.” ple know this is the or email your interest to finance@invermere.net

By Steve Hubrecht steve@columbiavalleypioneer.com

The Columbia Valley Pioneer • 9

ta

gloves. Organizers of the shoreline cleanup will arrange for the disposal of the colContin“This year we plan to work lected garbage. with a local dive volunteer organization Prior to the creation of the U.S. Enand do some diving to clean the lake bot- vironmental Protection Agency (EPA), no tom, which will be really exciting.”

Clean Air Act, no Clean Water Act. U.S, Those who choose to join in the Earth Senator Gaylord Nelson saw the need to Day clean-up are asked to meet at Kins- address environmental issues by creating men Beach. Participants will be assigned Earth Day, which began as an awareness locations around the lake which will have event in the early spring of 1970. The a volunteer leader. first Earth Day fell on Mar. 21, 1970, and “Any opportunity for the communi- then was moved to Apr. 22 going forward. ty to come together and take care of the Canada was twenty years late to the party places sustaining us is an opportunity to as Earth Day officially became established connect with each other and deepen our in Canada on Apr. 22, 1990. It is now celconnection to the place. The lake is such ebrated internationally. a central focal point for our community “Like any singular day of rememand, for many of us, one of the reasons brance, Earth Day is just a reminder of we chose to live in this beautiful valley,” how we should be living. No, it is not says Wilker. “There are a boatload of sen- feasible to spend every day of your life timental reasons why taking care of our cleaning up garbage from the shoreline,” environment is good for our communi- says Wilker. “However, spending one-day ty. These good memories often evoke a cleaning up the shoreline can act as a resense of responsibility and gratitude for minder we need to take care of Mother our home, which makes us feel the need Earth. It can act as an eye-opener towards to take care of it. So, this is an excellent how much garbage we produce and the opportunity to come out, meet the com- impact it has, and it can instill a sense of munity, and just be outside together.” connection to the places we live and the Project participants will collect data people we share it with. Earth day is just on types of debris found along the shore- an opportunity to slow down and give line and the activities that might produce back to the environments which give us so this debris while beach cleaners will have much every day and an invitation to carry all materials provided including bags and this perspective forward into our everyday lives.”

Many Indigenous Peoples, such as the Ktunaxa (Akisqnuk) Nation and the Shuswap Indian Band, also have strong ties and a rich history with Lake Windermere as it falls within their traditional territory. Community groups, businesses, school groups, families and friends are all welcome to join in on this rewarding event.

To register and help Lake COVID19 didn’t stop last year’s Lake Windermere’s Earth Windermere’s shoreDay clean-up from being a success. People came out to spiff up lines, please contact Lake the shoreline, and garbage was taken away by the truckload. Windermere AmbassaShow up at Kinsmen Beach on Apr. 23 at 10 a.m. to do your dors at info@lakeambaspart for this year’s clean-up.

Submitted photo sadors.ca. ...Continued “shoreline” from page 5

k No Ap ing w ril pla 27 c e th

April 21, 2022

District of Invermere

TRANSPORTATION MASTER PLAN THANK YOU FOR YOUR FEEDBACK! The District of Invermere has incorporated all comments and concerns that we received between January and March regarding the update to our Transportation Master Plan (TMP). The Draft TMP has been finalized and we are giving you another opportunity to provide your input.

A virtual public information session will be held on April 27, 2022 from 6:30pm to 7:30pm. The session will explore the DRAFT TMP and provide an opportunity for people to raise questions and share their perspectives. To join the event please visit, https://invermere.net/invermerestransportation-master-plan/ or by scanning this QR code with the camera on your smartphone.

VIRTUAL PUBLIC INFORMATION SESSION:

April 27, 2022 | 6:30pm - 7:30pm

join our virtual annual general meeting

MARK YOUR CALENDARS! Lake Windermere Alliance Church Vacation Bible School Kids Camp is back!

July 11-15 from 9 am to noon each day.

This program is for children entering Kindergarten in September, up to and including completed Gr 6.

Cost is $20/child for the week which includes a T-Shirt.

Registration opens April 25th. Register at lwac.ca and email your fillable registration form to kids@lwac.ca

Monday, May 9, 2022 6 pm PT / 79, pm MT Monday, May 2022

6 pm PT / 7 pm MT

You can log on from virtually anywhere and everyone is welcome.

Register https://www.kscu.com/AGM now at kscu.com/AGM.

10 • The Columbia Valley Pioneer

April 21, 2022

OUT OF OFFICE… Events and Gatherings are Returning to the Valley Get These on Your Calendars

IIt is exciting to see our community events calendar filling back up again! We are thrilled to share that your favourite events are returning, and new, exciting event traditions are beginning. Consider this a giant Save The Date from us!

May 9th – The Columbia Valley Chamber of Commerce annual fundraiser Golf Tournament is back at Fairmont Golf Course. Make sure you get your team together, book your tee-time and/or become a sponsor! It’s a fun day: www.cvchamber.ca May 9-15 – Wings over the Rockies Check out www.wingsovertherockies.org to get your tickets!

June 25-26 – Columbia Valley Smokeshow. A Kansas City Barbeque Society Sanctioned event. Come compete, observe, enjoy the festivities, learn from the pitmasters and enjoy. Any team can sign up, check out www. cvsmokeshow.ca

July 16 – Valley Appreciation Day. That’s right, it’s back! We are so excited to have this again. Any outof-town business who would like a booth can contact Cortney at events@invermere.net .

July 22-24 – Invermere Ballfest.

August 19-21 – Flatsfest, visit www.flatsfest.ca

CONTACT US TODAY AND HAVE YOUR BUSINESS FEATURED 250-342-2844

April 21, 2022

cvevents cv events.ca .ca

The Columbia Valley Pioneer • 11

WHAT’S HAPPENING?

Thursday, April 21

• 4-7pm: Community Connections Sign up Night! Come to the Columbia Valley Centre to sign up and learn about summer activities.

• 7-8:30pm: Teen Flashlight Egg Hunt and Art Night with Black Star Studios. Come to Edgewater Community Hall grades 6-12.

• 7pm: In-person BINGO at the Radium Hall. Call Sharlene at 250-688-1561 for info.

Friday, April 22 • 7:30: Trivia Championship at Radium Brewing

Saturday, April 23 • 10am: Lake Windermere Earth Day Shoreline Cleanup, meet at Kinsmen Beach.

Sunday, April 24 •1pm: ICAN Annual General Meeting at 455 Panorama Drive, Invermere. Come to learn how you can get involved

Wednesday, April 27 • 6:30pm: Reading, Conversation and Writing Q&A with Author Maureen Brownlee for her novel: Cambium Blue; and Tony Barryman author of the novel: The Night Nurse.

Come to the Invermere Public Library

Ongoing Events

Thursdays • 9-11 a.m.: Strong start sessions (drop-in program for caregivers and children ages 0-6).

Thursdays are at MME Elementary (Canal Flats). Call 250-409-4251 to reserve.

• 10-11:30 a.m.: Free Parent and Tot Connect for kids 0-6 at the Early Years Center; 926 7th Ave in Invermere. Call or text 250-341-8678 to register.

• 10:15 a.m.-1 p.m.: Tech Time Thursdays at the Invermere Library. Need help with your electronics? Call the library to book your free tech support appointment: 250-342-6416.

1:30-4:30 p.m.: Tech Time continues at the Radium Library.

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

• 3 p.m.: Free Youth Drop-in Fun at the Summit Youth Centre. After school fun for grades

POWERED BY THE COLUMBIA VALLEY CHAMBER

Thursdays

7-12: free food, safe hang-out spaces, Friday skate nights, VR, gaming, music room.

• 6 p.m.: Darts, Cards and Cribbage at the Invermere Legion every Thursday.

• 7 p.m.: Drop-in adult dance classes At Confi-Dance athletics: confidanceathletics.com

Fridays • 9-10:30 a.m.: Momfit and preschool group at the Columbia Valley Centre. Stay for Family Storytime (10:45) for stories, songs and crafts.

• 9-11 a.m.: Strong Start Sessions: a drop-in program for caregivers and children ages 0-6 at Edgewater Elementary. Call 250-409-4251 to reserve.

• 12 and 5 p.m.: Edgewater Legion wing day! 12pm: Takeout, 5 p.m. dine-in, call 250347-9725.

• 1 p.m.: Seniors’ duplicate bridge: Costs $2 at the senior’s hall.

• 3 p.m.: Free youth Drop-in Youth Fun at the Summit Youth Centre. After school fun grades 7-12: free food, safe hang-out spaces, Friday skate nights, VR, gaming, music room.

• 4-8 p.m.: Pub grub at the Invermere Legion every Friday and Saturday • 5 p.m.: Magic the gathering. Come for Friday Night Magic and Play Magic the Gathering.

Entry $10-$40 depending. Call 250-342-3440, 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.

Saturdays

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

Sundays

• 9 a.m.: Bottle drive Rotary Fundraiser. The Rotary Club collects refundable bottles at the Invermere Transfer Station. Raised funds are used for the community.

• 1 p.m.: Seniors Cribbage: Costs $2 at the Senior’s Hall, Invermere.

Mondays

• 9 a.m.: Bottle drive – Rotary Fundraiser. The Rotary Club collects refundable bottles at the Invermere Transfer Station. Raised funds are used for the community • 10:30-11:30 a.m.: Seniors Fitness. Columbia Valley Community Centre on Mondays and Thursdays ($2).

• 1:30 p.m.: Seniors Carpet Bowling. Join us for $2 at the Senior’s Hall, Invermere.

• 4-7 p.m.: Youth LGBTQ+ and 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.

Mondays

• 5-7 p.m.: Strong Start: A drop-in program for caregivers and children ages 0-6. Mondays are at Eileen Madson Primary + a light dinner. Call 250-409-4251 to reserve.

• 6 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 caregivers and children ages 0-6).

Tuesdays are at Edgewater Elementary. Call 250-409-4251 to reserve.

• 10 a.m.: Free Parents and Tot Connect: by Family Dynamix for children ages 0-6 at the Early Years Center; 926 7th Ave, Invermere. Text/call 250-341-8678 to register.

• 3 p.m.: Free youth drop-in Youth Fun: at the Summit Youth Centre. After school fun grades 7-12: free food, safe hang-out spaces, Friday skate nights, VR, gaming, music room.

• 7 p.m.: Drop-in Adult Dance Classes: Join Confi-Dance athletics on Tuesdays for Hip Hop & Burlesque. More at confidanceathletics.com • 6-8:30 p.m.: Second Winds Community Band Rehearsal: Tuesdays at the Invermere Catholic Hall. Dust off your old instruments and join. Contact Ian at 250-342-9733.

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

Wednesdays • 9-11 a.m.: Strong Start a drop-in program for caregivers and children ages 0-6. Wednesdays are at Eileen Madson Primary. Call 250-409-4251 to reserve.

• 10 a.m.: Seniors Yoga Seniors. Drop-in seniors yoga class at the Columbia Valley Centre for $2/class.

• 10:30-11:30 a.m.: Seniors and Elders catch up (zoom): Family Dynamix Catch up Café.

Join us if you have felt isolated during the pandemic. Email Tricia at patkin@familydynamix.ca • 12 p.m.: Seniors duplicate Bridge: $2 at the Senior’s Hall, • 3 p.m.: Free youth Drop-in Centre: at the Summit Youth Centre. After school fun grades 7-12 for free food, safe hang-out spaces, Friday skate nights, VR, gaming, music room.

• 7 p.m.: Drop-in Adult dance Classes: Salsa class. More at confidanceathletics.com • 7 p.m.: Trivia Night at the Station Pub: is $3 per person, with a max of 6 people per team, no phones allowed. Minors must be accompanied by an adult.

12 • The Columbia Valley Pioneer

April 21, 2022

RESIDENTIAL RECYCLING IN THE EAST KOOTENAY IS MOVING FORWARD. The Province’s provincially regulated residential paper and packaging Recycle BC program provides more options and a cheaper solution, while markets for independent recycling programs (like the Yellow Bin program) become harder to find and are much more expensive. Recycle BC Depots can be found throughout the East Kootenay at the Invermere (Industrial Park), Kimberley, Cranbrook, Fernie, Sparwood and Elkford Transfer Stations.

So, what does that mean?

The Recycle BC program accepts more than 76 additional recyclables than the Yellow Bins, and it pays the RDEK on average $115/tonne for every tonne collected in the Recycle BC program. The public can recycle far less in the Yellow Bins – and its costs taxpayers an average of $320/tonne for every tonne collected. That is a total difference of over $435/tonne.

Cost savings.

This cost savings, combined with the shrinking markets, mean the way we recycle is evolving.

THERE ARE TWO STREAMS FOR RECYCLING IN THE EAST KOOTENAY The Yellow Bins Throughout the Region and Municipal Curbside Pick-up in Fernie and Invermere

Recycle BC Depots Throughout the Region and Municipal Curbside Pick-up in Cranbrook and Kimberley

The RDEK pays for each tonne collected through the Yellow Bins and curbside pick-up in Fernie and Invermere.

The RDEK is paid for each tonne collected through the Recycle BC Depots across the region as well as Cranbrook and Kimberley’s curbside pick-up

Only the following products can be recycled in the Yellow Bins or curbside in Fernie and Invermere: PAPER (such as newspaper, magazines, phone books, brochures, envelopes).

CARDBOARD all types of cardboard. Exception: Cardboard covered in wax (for example milk cartons) or soiled with food or grease (like pizza boxes) cannot be recycled in this system.

TIN & ALUMINUM CANS food and beverage cans; labels off, rinse well.

PLASTICS Grocery bags and plastic with the # 1, 2, 3, 4, 5 or 6 on it. Plastics must be rinsed and every item must have a number on it. No Styrofoam, even though it will be marked a #6.

Recycle BC is a not-for-profit organization responsible for residential packaging and paper product recycling throughout BC. Recycle BC is funded by producers that supply packaging and paper products to BC residents, keeping the costs away from taxpayers.

By adopting the Recycle BC program, we are able to recycle many new products that are not available through the Yellow Bin system. These include milk cartons, ziploc bags, styrofoam, coated paper cups, bubble wrap, flexible plastic packaging, potato chip bags, aluminum foil & pie plates, and many more.

Recycle all this packaging and so much more through Recycle BC Depots.

1 REC

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Befor can b to fin trash

Learn

April 21, 2022 The Columbia Valley Pioneer • 13

like the brook,

roduct r

am, um foil

REDUCE

• There is no limit to the amount of times that the aluminum in a beverage container can be recycled

Canadians take home more than 55 MILLION PLASTIC BAGS each week. Do your part by using a reusable bag to instead of a plastic bag next time you go to the store.

• Once an aluminum can is recycled, it can be back on the shelf in as little as six weeks

The

gion as

RETURN FOR REFUND, AGAIN & AGAIN

• Recycling one aluminum can save enough energy to run a television for 3 hours.

100s OF DAY-TO-DAY ITEMS ARE RECYCLABLE IN THE EAST KOOTENAY

In 2021 Residents of the RDEK diverted 6,195,000 kgs of recyclable materials from the landfill by using the Recycle BC and Yellow Bin systems.

From aluminum foil to treadmills, from batteries to blenders, from motor oil to televisions…

THAT’S THE EQUIVALENT OF 3,442 PICK-UP TRUCKS.

You get the drift.

Thanks for doing your part to help divert waste from needlessly going to the landfills.

Before you send something to the landfill ask yourself if it can be reused, repurposed or recycled, you’d be surprised to find out how much stuff doesn’t need to go in the trash.

Learn more at

engage.rdek.bc.ca/recycle

14 • The Columbia Valley Pioneer

April 21, 2022

Getting Mother Earth back to good health through a Healthy Country Workshop including all the background production involved,” says Sam. “This training is an opportunity to re-emerge based on Indigenous knowledge that has merit and is time tested, because we are still here.”

Carla Buck participated in a Healthy Country Planning Training Workshop back in May of 2019 in Pinewood Lodge, Manitoba. She shared that was the year that her community of Opaskwayak Cree Nation in Manitoba began the actions of implementing a Land Use Plan

Sam describes herself as a sixties scoop survivor. She currently owns her own business and teaches Indigenous studies at College of the Rockies. Sam offers workshops Conversations about conservation standards are takon a variety of topics, including one called Pre-Engageing place during a ten-week, Healthy Country Planning ment Ethics. “This is the background, the stuff we need workshop, led by Indigenous leaders Michele Sam of the to know, to get ready for meaning and reciprocal engageKtunaxa Nation at the helm and Amanda Sheedy based ment with Indigenous people,” says Sam. in Tio’tia:ke (Montreal) on the unceded territory of the Non-Indigenous were absolutely encouraged to take Kanyen’kehà:ka as co-facilitator. part in this past workshop and the more that will follow.

Excellent health isn’t just something we should “It is non-Indigenous who are in positions of decision strive for in our bodies, but also in our environmenmaking, advising, planning and policy development in tal, cultural and social values. Making sure all these Indigenous organizations,” says Sam. are considered equally and that we take care of mother Web-based tools are used throughout the workearth for future generations embodies the motto of shop so that participants can engage with one another. the Healthy Country Planning workshop.

All participants of this workshop will have access to “To be Indigenous led, means to be ready first, to exercises, powerpoints, and resources throughout and listen and value Indigenous peoples’ knowledge and after the workshop is complete. “I would be incredibly center the place and people. Not many of us have had happy if even one participant came to realize the imthat sort of socialization to do so,” says Sam. “This portance of Indigenous Peoples’ knowledge and value opportunity is co-facilitated by myself, a Ktunaxa of ways that might have been sleeping,” says Sam. person, who is also Indigenous in partnership with a The Ktunaxa have a term “to wake up” — “haq non-Indigenous facilitator. People will appreciate the maxun.” Sam hopes that knowledge wakes people up, different world views and experiences, as well as find giving them energy to do great work for the homelands Healthy Country Planning is an Indigenous-led workshop that runs ways to shift the narratives of the past into a future and waterways that are attached to ancient languages from Apr. 13 to June 15 with a focus on planning for the future plan. The knowledge of Indigenous is not a past tense and cultures with a rich history to accompany it. “I and ensuring a healthier land for generations to come. way of being, doing and knowing. We have been here love witnessing ‘aha’ moments and supporting people

Photo by Noah Buscher on Unsplash and continue to be here despite all the challenges and through difficult and challenging dialogue,” says Sam. impacts, and we plan.” she adds. “It is time for Indig“Reconciliation implies a conflict and so to get to recenous people to re-emerge our ways of thinking and plan for their Traditional Territories. onciliation we have to get through and understand the for the future.”

“Nature United had outreached to our community nature of conflict, and how it plays out for different peoThe ten-series Indigenous-led workshop takes place because of our desires to steward the lands, and strive to ple in different places.” once a week until June 15 and had its first class on Apr. have a healthy environment for our people and mother Sam shares she loves to see people be engaged in the 13. The workshops are offered through Zoom every nature for generations to come,” says Buck. ”I enjoy how content even though we are on a Zoom link. “Just beWednesday morning from 9:00 a.m. to 12:30 p.m PST. adaptative the Healthy Country Planning workshop is, cause it is virtual does not mean it has to lose its meaning The cost for the workshop was $1100 plus tax per because each community is diverse and each situation is or ability to connect with people,” says Sam. “I think we person, with a small discount if there were four or more different. The healthy country plan really helps with fo- are in a whole stage of ‘social integration’ after the whole from the same organization enrolling together. “The fees cus and time management. It supports the community’s social-isolation era. That means purposeful engagement pay for both my own and the other co-facilitator Aman- vision of what we want for our traditional territory and and effort. More words not less. It’s a time to dedicate to da Sheedy’s time in preparing the course and its delivery that it is very much attainable.” thinking, reflecting and planning for the future.”

By Chadd Cawson Local Journalism Initiative Reporter

Tcwesétmentem child welfare agreement makes B.C. history Co-created by Simpcw First Nation and Ministry of Children and Family Development is the traditional Shuswap language of the Simpcw/ Secwépemc people.

The new child welfare agreement is called British Columbia makes history with a first-of-its- Tcwesétmentem (pronounced Twa-set-men-tem) and kind child welfare agreement, signed by the Ministry translates to English as “walking together.” The name of Children and Family Development, and Simpcw/ was championed by language expert and Simpcw ElSecwépemc First Nation on Apr. 12. Secwepemctsín der, Mona Jules PhD, with the assistance of Simpcw Language Manager, Charli Fortier. The agreement Tcwesétmentem embodies the unique practices, laws, customs and even traditions of the Simpcw/ Secwépemc First Nation.

“I feel a great sense of pride after a long journey with the Ministry of Children and Family Development to reach this agreement. I felt our ancestors guided us in the creation of this new relationship that significantly changes practice and ensures our Nation’s supThe new co-created child welfare agreement between the Ministry of Chil- port for the well-being of our members dren and Development and the Simpcw (Secwépemc) First Nation is called across British Columbia,” said Kúkpi7 Tcwesétmentem in the traditional Shuswap language. This translates in (Chief ) Shelly Loring in an Apr. 12 English as walking together.

Photo by Annie Spratt on Unsplash press release. “This interim measure

By Chadd Cawson Local Journalism Initiative Reporter

marks a significant milestone on our pathway toward implementing our inherent jurisdiction. I am especially pleased that our laws, customs and traditions are enshrined in this legally binding agreement through the meaningful inclusion of our Secwepemctsín.”

This agreement unlike any other recognizes elements of the Federal Act respecting First Nations, Inuit and Métis children as well as youth and families.

It will inform child welfare decision making and ensure that the Simpcw First Nation is involved in the protection, planning and placement of all Simpcw/ Secwépemc children and youth who encounter the child welfare system. The Simpcw and the Ministry will work together on plans of independence, care assessments and investigations including the decision as to where children and youth will be placed. The aim of this is to support the well-being of Simpcw families. A Simpcw community designate will be involved with child welfare practice decisions and to ensure a Simpcw worldview and cultural continuity are incorporated.

Continued on page 23...

April 21, 2022

The Columbia Valley Pioneer • 15

Salmon segment part 1 A rich history, a bountiful past

By Chadd Cawson Local Journalism Initiative Reporter In schools of anadromous fish, salmon are the most popular. They have always had a rich history with the Columbia River and First Nations like the Secwépemc (Shuswap) and Ktunaxa (Akisqnuk) Nation whose territories fall on it. While salmon have recently seen and are presently seeing darker times, the hopes for a brighter future remain as we get closer to the 2022 Bringing Home the Salmon Festival on May 3 and 4. The Columbia River Salmon Restoration Initiative will be discussed further in a future edition of the Pioneer.

It has been expressed that the decrease of salmon in the Columbia River has been earth-shattering to all First Nations on either side of the border. To put it in perspective, the salmon and First Nations cultures, such as the local Shuswap Indian Band and Akisqnuk Nation have long been intertwined. Salmon have been the heart of their survival, economy and ceremonies for generations.

As the Columbia lost salmon over the years, the Indigenous Peoples lost a part of themselves. In Indigenous cultures, salmon have not only been a prime food source, but also a symbol of abundance, fertility, prosperity, and renewal. They are still used in different ceremonial and religious services to this day.

Roughly five million years before present (BP) it

was believed what we know now as salmon were said to have evolved in the Columbia River Basin. The salmonid species have been said to be present in the Columbia River Basin for the last fifty million years, when it was still loosely translated as “big river” in a myriad of First Nation mother-tongues. What is now known as Columbia River belonged to them, long before it belonged to industry. The waters once were calm and flowed crimson. Salmon were bountiful and the Indigenous Peoples only took what they needed.

“Big river” was open and the salmon swam free.

Upon it officially being named the Columbia the fur-trading industry created a hub of activity with foreigners taking advantage of the river’s resources First Nations once used with discretion. This came into full swing in 1810. There have been many contributing factors to the decrease of salmon in the Columbia over the course of time including logging, overfishing and pollution. It was in 1827 that the Hudson Bay Company began the commercial logging industry in the Pacific Northwest. By 1880, there was an intense rise in the commercial fishing industry and salmon numbers began to drop significantly.

In the twentieth century between 1900 and 1910, commercial logging was happening on the Columbia River on a large scale. Simply put, excess logging places disruptions on Mother Nature’s natural ways for mitigating floods and landslides. This results in future consequences for the natural habitat of salmon.

The construction of the Grand Coulee dam began in 1931. Grand Coulee is the largest dam to this day on the Columbia River and still one of the largest in the world. Following the Columbia River Treaty (the water-management agreement between the U.S. and Canada which was implemented in 1964) Columbia soon had more than 60 in its watershed, more than any other river.

Akisqnuk Chief Donald Sam still remembers tales of salmon his family told him when he was young.

“One of my aunties used to tell me about salmon.

She’d say that salmon came all the way up to Athalmer. That whole area under the bridge used to be bright red. This would have been sometime around 1947 before all the dams went in,” said Chief Donald Sam. “Salmon is a food source that has always been so vitally important to us. It was cut off and this is not the first time this has happened to us as it also happened with the buffalo. There is also the biodiversity aspect as salmon weren’t just food for us but also for bears, eagles, insects, and so much more wildlife as well.”

There are studies that have shown that habitats once available to salmon for rearing and spawning are no longer. It is the dams in the Columbia River that are responsible for more than 55 per cent of its blockage. Dams also contribute to the fluctuation of water temperature and quality, which only adds to the salmon death toll.

Continued on page 23...

Tuft Love: learn the art of hair tufting at upcoming workshop

By Chadd Cawson Local Journalism Initiative Reporter The Columbia Valley Métis Association (CVMA) will be holding its first caribou hair tufting two-part workshop on April 23 and 30 out of the Chamber of Commerce in Invermere. This workshop will run from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. on both days. All supplies as well as lunch will be provided. Teaching the class will be Maria Rose Sikyea of Caribou Woman Creations from the Yukon. “We’ll be streaming her in virtually,” says CVMA President Monica Fisher. “We already have the supplies that we’ve ordered from her.” This two-part workshop will also incorporate some of the history behind hair tufting.

Maria Rose Sikyea of Caribou Woman Creations has a strong love for tufting and has been actively doing it since 2019. She became aware of the traditional Dené/ Métis skill from her father Timmy Sikyea, who is a fashion designer from Yellowknife. “My dad created contemporary designs back in the 70s and 80s,” says Sikyea. “His pieces were embellished through moose hair tufting, bead work and porcupine quillwork by many Dené women throughout the Northwest Territories. My father also knew how to do the skills himself. I still own some of his porcupine quilled pieces today.”

Tufting is an intricate skill with a rich history that began in the early 1900’s and was developed by Métis artists Katherine Bouvier and Madeleine Lafferty. Maria Rose Sikyea has been sharing her talent and skill since 2020. Sikyea expresses that her favourite part of sharing

is seeing the joys of the participants when they have their ue to share awareness of where the skill originated from.” knot figured out and have completed a nice circle of carVery conscientious of the environment she is always ibou hair. Sikyea still feels gratitude for Carmen Miler, a looking for new ways to bring awareness to the imporMétis woman who helped her improve her knot one year tance of protecting the lands of the caribou. Sikyea advoduring the Adaka Festival which takes place in White- cates for healthy and vibrant lands for her people’s carihorse, Yukon. bou relations across this beautiful continent. She shares “We live in a fast-paced environment. Always busy, most hunters don’t save the winter caribou hides due to rushing to pay bills and moving with the speediness warbles on the skin. of society. I feel tufting slows us down and is a way to Continued on page 16... connect to our ancestral relations,” says Sikyea. “It is a time to focus with a quiet mind and tough through the thoughts we no longer need to hold onto.” Sikyea chooses to share this traditional skill typically only with those of Indigenous relations but will make an exception to non-Indigenous who want to learn only if they sign a waiver stating they won’t profit from tufting. Sikyea feels it’s an opportunity for all Métis to reclaim some of their history and feel that sense of pride while making way towards a brighter future together.

Sikyea feels that participants will build confidence through this skill as it can be meticulous and focused on details. “I feel a sense of pride with them when they have completed their first blossom,” says Sikyea.

“I hope they share the importance of givOriginal caribou hair tufting art by Maria Rose Sikyea of Caribou Woming back the caribou hair to the land with an Creations. Sikyea will be teaching her skill virtually in a two-part prayer, intention and a gift. As they continworkshop later this month through the Columbia Valley Métis Association ue their tufting journey. I hope they continat the Chamber of Commerce in Invermere.

Photo Submitted

16 • The Columbia Valley Pioneer

Get ready for Wings Over the Rockies 2022

April 21, 2022 part of our four-legged gift, the caribou.”

All are welcome to attend this two-part workshop to learn more about the love and art of tufting. Those that are non-Indigenous will be asked to pay a $30 fee. CVMA President Monica Fisher shares that coming out of COVID, a workshop like this is very important to the community and Metís citizens.

“Community gatherings are tried and true Metís like many nations,” shares CVMA President Fisher. “It’s exciting for us after two years to be able to get together, have a feast, learn a new skill and laugh.”

With two days left before this workshop begins, those interested should contact columbiavalleycc@mnbc.ca for more information.

...Continued “Tufting” from page 15 These hides have good hair, often white which makes them great for dying vibrant colours.

Sikyea hopes to create a method to retrieve winter caribou hides along with their shin skins and bones for projects.

Her aim is to make caribou hair more accessible to youth across the north, for caribou hair tufting.

“We rely on our relations and those relations are being threatened through climate change, mines and due to our relations not living as close with the caribou as back in the day,” says Sikyea. “I am hoping to bring awareness to being able to work with and use every

has been recognized with a number of prestigious awards. Purchase your tickets for the Gala to be held at the Columbia What a week the 25th annual Wings Over the Rock- Valley Centre at www.wingsovertherockies Nature Festival will be! Wings is Celebrating Nature ies.com The Wings Online Auction goes live …Winging it for 25 years from May 9 to 15. The week is packed with more than 100 activities and events focusing on Friday, May 6 at noon with a link from on the special wildlife and environment of the Columbia the Wings website. This is an opportunity Valley. From paddles in the wetlands to outdoor yoga to to acquire amazing adventures, extravalunch and evening presentations, the festival promises to gant art, learning opportunities and oneof-a-kind items only available at this auchave something for everyone.

All events and presentations are led by very knowl- tion. You may place your bids on unique edgeable nature enthusiasts who are pleased to share their offerings such as a small ship cruise on expertise. The Wings schedule of events and ticket pur- the Mighty Saint Lawrence, or Robert chase is now available at www.wingsovertherockies.com. Bateman’s signed Bird book with an origWings is delighted to welcome Dr. Harvey Locke, inal pen and ink drawing of an osprey, or conservationist, writer and photographer as the guest two nights in a glamping tent. The aucspeaker for the Wings Gala on Saturday, May 14. A for- tion closes Sunday, May 15 at noon. mer lawyer, Dr. Locke changed his passion into a new Local fans are thrilled that The Warcareer, becoming an authority on national parks, wildlife, dens, a Rocky Mountain-based band, will large landscape and connectivity conservation and cli- be returning to Invermere. Their songs and mate change. His work with international organizations stories rise from the land they protected as Canadian to conserve biological diversity and halt biodiversity loss national park wardens. Tickets for the Friday, May 13 concert at the Columbia Valley Centre may be purchased at www.wingsovertherockies.com.

Photographers, young and older, will be interested in the Photo Contest. Photos in four categories for adults and a special category for photo buffs under 16 may be submitted at no cost on-line for prizes in each category.

The Grand Prize is a two-day workshop with nature photographer Denise Hoffgaard. Check the contest details at www.wingsovertherockies. com.

Mark your calendars, study the Wings schedule, and go to the website to buy tickets Wing Over the Rockies Birding event at Richie’s Point, Wilmer, BC. for your chosen events before they sell out. May The Wardens: Scott Duncan, Ray Schmidt, Scott Ward.

Submitted photo 9 to 15 will be a very exciting week!

Submitted photo Submitted by Lynda Tutty, Wings Marketing Committee

¬

SCHEDULE A

PUBLIC HEARING NOTICE – BYLAW 3130 – Bylaw Amendment – Windermere North

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The Regional District of East Kootenay (RDEK) Board of Directors is considering an application by HGK Holdings Ltd. to amend the zoning designation of their property located at the intersection l ai Tr t of Athalmer Road and Highway 93/95 north of Windermere as shown on the attached map. es r Fo Bylaw No. 3130 cited as “Regional District of East Kootenay – Upper Columbia Valley Zoning Bylaw No. 900, 1992 – Amendment Bylaw No. 380, 2022 (Windermere North / HGK Holdings Ltd)” ck la B will amend the zoning designation of Lot 2, District Lot 9561, Kootenay District, Plan NEP19111 except Plans NEP81810, EPP6220, NEP91167 and NEP91752 from C-2, Service Commercial Zone Athalmer Rd to C-1 Community Commercial Zone.

A public hearing will be held via Zoom webinar conference: Wednesday, April 27, 2022 at 6:00 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 Bylaw, you may prior to the hearing: C-2 Rd • inspect the Bylaw and supporting information by requesting that an information package be emailed to you by contacting bkormos@rdek.bc.ca. Information packages may be requested per to Co o up until Monday, April 25, 2022 at 4:30 pm; C-1 • mail or email written submissions to the addresses shown below before Monday, April 25, 2022 at 4:30 pm; TO PRE-REGISTER visit the Meetings • present verbal submissions at the public hearing.

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93

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95

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page on rdek.bc.ca and choose era

You must pre-register in order to attend and provide verbal presentations or make comments at the hearing.

Public Hearings & Meetings The deadline to register is: Monday, April 25, 2022 at 4:30 pm.

Register in advance for this webinar: https://us06web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_xf7SPtMpSU2DN01b_lAlrg or by visiting the RDEK website, Meetings/Minutes, Public Hearings and Meetings.

Please note that a question and answer period will not occur during the Zoom webinar conference. You must address any questions relating to the bylaw to the planning technician 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 Bylaw. For more information, contact Brett Kormos, Planning Technician, at 250-489-0306, toll free at 1-888-478-7335, or email bkormos@rdek.bc.ca.

Frt ld W g

This is Schedule A referred to in Bylaw No. 3130 cited as “Regional District of East Kootenay - Upper Columbia Valley Zoning Bylaw No. 900, 1992 – Amendment Bylaw No. 380, 2022 (Windermere North / HGK Holdings Ltd).”

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

April 21, 2022

The Columbia Valley Pioneer • 17

HERE TO SERVE YOU SERVICES

SERVICES

SERVICE EXCELLENCE

Sales ~ Service ~ Installation

North American Warranty

IN THE COLUMBIA VALLEY

SINCE 1991

UNIVERSAL DOORS & EXTERIORS

All Makes and Models

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

Arnold Scheffer 250-342-6700

Tire Sales and Installation

We give all students 15% off with valid student ID

unidoorext@live.ca • unidoorext.ca

Industrial ~ Commercial ~ Residential

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

Beat the fall rush ~ clean your Chimney this spring!

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

CLEANING & MAINTENANCE ON ALL WOOD BURNING APPLIANCES • WETT INSPECTIONS

FREE ESTIMATES • Pruning and Removal of ALL Trees and Shrubs • Stump Grinding • Fully Insured & WCB Covered

Chimney and Eavestrough Cleaning and Repair Specialists

You name it!

I’ll take care of it!

YOUR ONE-STOP SHOP for all home maintenance from raking your lawn to renovating your entire house.

OVER

30 YEARS

EXPERIENCE

Keep your local businesses alive.

Get your tree services right here in Invermere!

Please call Steve ~ a real local you can trust! 250-342-1791 • Interior/Exterior Painting • Staining • Clear Coat • New Construction • Renovations

Scott Postlethwaite

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

Free Estimates

invermereelectric@gmail.com

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

(Servicing the Valley since 1999)

NEW SEWER CAMERA

• • •

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

• Septic Tank Pumping • Portable Toilet Rentals •

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

250-347-9803

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

20 years experience • Satisfaction guaranteed!

Gary’s

Seniors Discounts

• • • •

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

Professional Painting & Decorating Ltd. 1978 FREE Estimates

Local Resident

CUSTOM WOOD FINISHING FAUX FINISHES JOURNEYMAN RED SEAL

PHARMACY

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

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

915 7th Avenue, Unit B, Invermere • 250-342-4663

LANDSCAPING

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

(7655) LetUsRoll4U@Gmail.com

INTERIOR • EXTERIOR • WALL COVERINGS

403-650-4622 • garysptg@gmail.com

WINDERMERE, BC 250-341-7029

Ph: 250-688-ROLL

GOLDEN, BC 250-344-0188

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

LAMBERT-KIPP

PHARMACY (2019) LTD.

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

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

N E W S PA P E R

18 • The Columbia Valley Pioneer

April 21, 2022

HERE TO SERVE YOU

INSURANCE

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.

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

www.kootenayinsurance.ca

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

INSURANCE AGENCIES LTD.

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

Proudly Serving the Valley for over 50 years

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

Columbia Concrete Inc. 20 years’ experience • Anything concrete!

• • • •

Basements Garage pads Driveways Patios

• • • •

250-688-3739

Decorative Exposed Stamped concrete Acid staining Serving the Columbia Valley

CONTRACTING

CONTRACTING

Richard Vernon – Master Plumber & Gasfitter

ST

BROAD

LTD

P LUM B I N G

rvbroadstreet@gmail.com broadstreetplumbing.com

Specializing in all heating, electric, gas and wood.

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

A licensed, registered and bonded company

CONCRETE I N

P U R S U I T

O F

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

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

1756 Hwy 93/95 Windermere B.C.

250-688-4868

&CON T R A C T I N G

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

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

• 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

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

Kekuli Bay Cabinetry kekulibaycabinetry.com

Call NOW:

• 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

250-688-0213

We also offer roundthe-clock service calls.

Visit www.heavensbest.com for more information

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

Patryk Jagiello STAIN/LACQUER/PAINT INTERIOR/EXTERIOR patco_dev@shaw.ca

(250) 270-0345 in Calgary since 2002 in Invermere since 2004

Patco Developments Ltd. PROFESSIONAL PAINTERS

TILE AND GROUT CLEANING

• 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

Business: 250-342-9692

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

Cell: 250-342-1273

ptarmiganrugclean@gmail.com

Here to Serve You Advertising 250-341-6299

April 21, 2022

The Columbia Valley Pioneer • 19

P IONEER C LASSIFIEDS GARAGE SALE

ANNOUNCEMENT

Sat & Sun, April 23 & 24 from 10 am - 4 pm at 816 14 Street (up the gravel road from Red Apple). Lots of salvaged items from renovations including vinyl flooring, shelving, closet organizers, windows coverings, light fixtures, home decor, bedding, etc.

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.

ANNOUNCEMENT Alcoholics Anonymous. If alcohol is causing problems or conflict in your life, AA can help. Please call 250-342-2424 for more information or to speak with someone from our fellowship.

CHEERS WITHOUT TEARS Cheers to the wonderful staff at Stolen Church Coffee! They are always so friendly and helpful when we descend upon the place after fitness classes. Great coffee, tea, baked goods and service.

CHEERS WITHOUT TEARS A big heart felt CHEERS to Mountain Home Yoga Studio!

We are so lucky to have this wonderful studio in our town.

Thank you to Kelly, Jenny, Ali, Kimber & the rest of the instructors. They offer a great variety of classes in person & livestream.

Cheers to Chester, polymath, who has left his body. He made this Valley and this world a better place. He may be physically gone, but he’ll live in our hearts all the rest of our days.

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

CHEERS WITHOUT TEARS

CHEERS WITHOUT TEARS

LISTINGS NEEDED!

My back was in pain, tight & uncomfortable. I had a massage treatment by Kristi FREMLIN in Invermere, and I walked out pain-free, floating, like I had a new body. CHEERS to Kristi!

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.

LOST AND FOUND

Crazy Fit Massage $300 Patio Set with table, 4 chairs and umbrella $100 Elliptical Spirit Flaman Fitness $1000 1A Wolf Crescent Black Forest Trail 250-342-3137

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

Found Cat In Radium, midMarch, near Gateway Motel.

Neutered & m/c’ed male, 3-4 yrs, Tabby blk & brn. White face, chest, underside and front legs.

Very friendly, Call ICAN at 250341-7888. or FB.com/ICANBC.

LOT/ACREAGE FOR SALE

Personal Real Estate Corporation

Rockies West Realty Independently owned and operated

Thomas (Tom) Robert DAVIS Thomas (Tom) Robert Davis of Fairmont Hot Springs, BC, passed away on Monday, March 14, 2022 at the age of 78 in Calgary, AB, with his children by his side.

Tom is survived by his two children: daughter Sarah Davis (Dave), son Jeremy Davis (Tanys); one very special grandchild Finn Davis, brother John Davis (Helene), brothers-in-law, Gerry Power (Liz), Len Power (Anna); and sisters-in-law, Marie Power-Jay (Kevin), Anna Flower (Ron), Millie Oliver (Ron); as well as numerous nieces, nephews, relatives and friends. Tom is predeceased by his beloved wife Isobel, sister Brenda, and his mother and father.

Tom had a thirst for travel and adventure that began when he was a young man. Travelling with his wife Isobel in the 70s to various places around the world – Iran, Afghanistan, Scotland, Austria to name a few, and living and working in England for a period of time. Eventually they made their way back to Canada and settled in Calgary, AB. During this time, Tom curated his other passion – desserts and anything yummy!

He owned and operated two restaurants, specializing in cheesecakes, delicious sweet and savory baked goods, pâtés…. the list goes on and on. Also during this time, Tom and Isobel started a family, welcoming son Jeremy and daughter Sarah.

In 1991, it was time for a change. After selling the Calgary restaurants, Tom, Isobel and kids moved to their ‘cabin’ in Columere Park, just south of Fairmont Hot Springs, BC. It was here that Tom stayed for nearly 30 years. This was a welcoming community and Tom made many amazing friends and took part in many local activities – ski patrol at Fairmont Hot Springs Resort, curling in Canal Flats, golfing at the many courses in the area, fishing at White Swan, Premier, and Findlay Creek; hiking and hunting for morel mushrooms…. Tom even opened a couple of restaurants in the Columbia Valley, but it’s a tough business with such a short tourist season, so he decided that it was time to hang up his professional apron and retire. There were many up and downs during this period of time but Tom always had a positive outlook and incredible sense of humor to carry him through.

Always being a creative soul and into his later years, Tom began writing. First, a cookbook of his delectable dessert creations and then a number of books, short stories and children’s books, all bursting with his quirky imagination, sense of humor and life experiences. A number of these he had published, and there are many that have been written and will be forever cherished by family. The creativity did not end there; painting, sculpting and working on art projects using natural materials from around the area was another hobby of Tom’s. He enjoyed keeping busy and this made him happy.

Globetrotting continued to be a passion and carried on into retired life, visiting places like Malaysia, Indonesia, Australia, Greece, Japan, China and most recently Mexico; immersing himself in the culture of each place he visited… Tom never shied away from adventure and was always a free spirit who lived life on his own terms. He will be missed dearly and never forgotten.

The family would like to extend a heartfelt thank you for the great care and compassion from all of the staff involved at the Foothills Medical Center, as well as a sincere thank you for the prayers and support shown by family and friends.

A Celebration of Tom’s Life will be held at a later date. Condolences, memories, and photos may be shared and viewed at www.McInnisandHolloway.com.

In living memory of Thomas (Tom) Davis, a tree will be planted in the Ann & Sandy Cross Conservation Area by McInnis & Holloway Funeral Homes, Cochrane, 369 Railway Street, Cochrane, AB T4C 2E2, Telephone: 403-932-4740.

CHEERS to Bobby, born & raised in the Valley. At Crossroads Market, Bobby, a fellow customer, dropped everything and went out of his way to help me find decaf coffee. He is a great representative for our Valley - authentically friendly, helpful and humorous. People like Bobby make our Valley great!

CHEERS to all our friends, family & the community as a whole, for all the love and support we have received after the sudden passing of Bucky (and Yvette).

It is incredibly heart warming to see how many people Bucky connected with in various ways!!

Many thanks from Carole and Nicole Cheers to Jack and Francis at Valley Spas. for getting hot tub up and running. really appreciate your help. Doug.

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

MISC. FOR SALE

Stove in nice clean condition to sell with the following particulars, Make: GE Width: Standard 30 inches Colour: white Range: white ceramic cooktop Burners: 4 Warming Element: 1 Two Element Bridging: two left burners Self cleaning Oven: Upper door Storage: Lower Drawer Power Plugs: 2 (one left side, one right side) Cost: Asking $ 350 Location: Invermere Call for more information: Garry 403-619-3184

BOATS FOR SALE

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

NOTICES

Chester Harold Allen December 1931 - April 2022

Chester passed away on April 13, 2022 after a lengthy illness.

A private celebration will take place at a later date.

Barge For Sale Floating barge with 5 x 15 m deck on 2 steel pontoons. Solid & stable. 6 boat cleats, equipment box and more. Suitable for instant dock. Must be seen. $25,000 obo Contact Stephanie O’Connor 250-342-1648 stephaniekoconnor@gmail.com

MEMORY Reg Eichorst November 12, 1941 to November 12, 2021 Remembering our special day with love. Forever in our hearts, Shirley and family.

20 • The Columbia Valley Pioneer

April 21, 2022

SERVICES

SERVICES

HELP WANTED

HELP WANTED

HELP WANTED

HELP WANTED

B.B.’s Home & Design Services Handyman Services & Renovation’s, Masonry, Blinds & Installation.

Housechecks/home/yard/ eavestrough maintenance/ dump runs. Over 35 year’s experience.

Call 250-688-2897

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

Looking to Hire Taynton Bay Electrical LTD is currently looking for an experienced residential Electrician. Wage depending on experience. Please Call Cliff at 250-342-1355

HELP WANTED

BbnBeyond Vacation Inc. 778-761-5660 Location: Invermere, BC 4 positions available Reliable, detailed, focused.

English speaking Hourly wage of $27.50 30 hrs per week Onsite training offered.

No education requirement Duties include: sweeping, mopping, vacuuming, dusting, laundry, making beds, washing windows/walls, folding linens, removing garbage.

Work locations vary.

Travelling between multiple vacation rentals.

Repetitive tasks, physically demanding (standing, crouching, kneeling), fast-paced environment.

FAIRMONT SUBWAY & GAS PLUS Accepting resumes for P/T or F/T Please email resumes to jaypark4929@gmail.com

Golf cart and lawn tractor tuneups. Pick up and delivery service available. We buy used golf carts. Call Jeff 250-341-8146.

Please leave a message.

Selkirk Cellulars & Office Supplies is looking to hire a Telus and store sales representative fulltime. The ideal candidate will have excellent customer service and time management skills.

They will be comfortable with cell phone software (i.e. Android and Apple operating systems) and the ability to troubleshoot problems. Telus and store representative training will be provided. Please send your resume to info@selkirkcells.com

Foundation and Framing Crew Available 250-342- 1517 AARON’S HOME SERVICES -Lawn Care -Yard Cleans -Power Washing 250-342-9222

Old Salzburg Kitchen now accepting resumes for the upcoming summer season.

Dishwashers start at $16/hr.

Cooks start at $18/hr. Please email resumes to: scottstorvik@ gmail.com

Please email classified ads to info@columbiavalleypioneer.com

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

Clean Connection is seeking highly motivated and detailed cleaners for our amazing team.

Five star residential and rental property care. Vehicle and smart phone required. Experience is an asset but will train the right candidate. Contract positions available starting at $27.50/hr Flexible shifts. Email shawna@ clean-connection.ca

Please email classified ads to info@columbiavalleypioneer.com

Columbia Valley Early Childhood Coalition Coordinator We are looking for an experienced Early Childhood Coalition Coordinator to join our team of vibrant, sincere, and professional individuals. This position plans and implements activities related to Early Childhood Development (ECD) in the Columbia Valley. Coordinates Columbia Valley ECD Coalition development and networking, planning, promotion, policy and procedure formulation, evaluation, reporting, budget preparation and sustainability planning.

Position: Permanent part-time Hours: 2 hours per week Start Date: Immediately Schedule: Monday to Friday between 8:30 am and 4:30 pm.

Some evenings and weekends may be required.

Functional Responsibility: 1. Raise awareness in the community of the ECD Coalition and the benefits gained from belonging to the team and advocate for services for families and their children under the age of six.

2. coordinating the Columbia Valley ECD Coalition, development and networking, planning, promotion, evaluation, reporting, budget preparation and sustainability planning.

3. Encourage community action by supporting parents to identify their needs in their community.

4. Link the CV ECD Coalition with regional, provincial and national coalitions and organizations involved with ECD. 5. Raise public awareness of the importance of ECD. 6. Maintain related records and statistics and produce reports as required.

7. For full job description please contact Family Dymanix Accountability: The CV Early Childhood Development Coalition Coordinator is accountable to the Director of Program Management and in her absence the Executive Director.

Qualifications: Two-year post-secondary in a human services discipline and one-year related experience. Other appropriate combinations of education and experience may be considered.

Live In Caregiver Required Our family is looking for a live in caregiver to help support our amazing 96 year old mom to continue to live in her own home Free rent plus salary depending on qualifications. Call Ross at 1-250-342-5247.

Pioneer Classifieds

SPOT THE DEALS! N E W S PA P E R

info@columbiavalleypioneer.com

Lake Windermere Pointe in Invermere is looking to hire self-motivated caretakers to help care for the Strata property.

Tasks vary and may include landscaping, groundskeeping, painting, light electrical, pool maintenance and general property maintenance.

Prefer someone with 2-3 years experience. Part-time and full-time positions available. Criminal check required. Wages depend on experience.

If interested, please contact lwp.secretary@lakewindermerepointe.ca.

Early Years Coordinator We are looking for an experienced Early Years Coordinator to join our team of vibrant, sincere, and professional individuals. This position plans and implements activities for families and their children under six, related to Early Childhood Development from Canal Flats to Spillimacheen.

Position: Permanent part-time Hours: Up to 12 hours per week Start Date: Immediately Schedule: Monday to Friday between 8:30 am and 4:30 pm.

Some evenings and weekends may be required.

Functional Responsibility: 1. Offer parenting support information and/or programs to support children’s social and emotional well-being.

2. Provide access to early intervention information, referrals, and/or services.

3. Provide health promotion and prevention information and/or services.

4. Provide information and/or linkages that support young children transitioning to kindergarten.

5. Provide information on childcare programs available in the local community.

Other functions include coordinating the Columbia Valley ECD Coalition, development and networking, planning, promotion, evaluation, reporting, budget preparation and sustainability planning.

Accountability: The Early Years Coordinator is accountable to the Director of Program Management and in her absence the Executive Director.

Qualifications: Two-year post-secondary in a human services discipline and one-year related experience. Other appropriate combinations of education and experience may be considered.

Application process and deadline: Email a resume and cover letter to Ute Juras, Director of Program Management, Family Dynamix Association at ujuras@fdx.family by 4:30 p.m., April 19, 2022.

Application process and deadline: Email a resume and cover letter to Ute Juras, Director of Program Management, Family Dynamix Association at ujuras@fdx.family by 4:30 p.m., April 19, 2022.

We appreciate all applicants for their interest, however, only those candidates selected for interviews will be contacted.

We appreciate all applicants for their interest, however, only those candidates selected for interviews will be contacted.

Turf Care Technician Looking to fill turf care positions for the 2022 golf season.

Full-time and part-time positions available with flexible schedule options.

STAFF ACCOMMODATION AVAILABLE If you like working outside, have a passion for the game of golf or just enjoy learning new skills please send your resume to:

Adam Hodge, Assistant Superintendent Adam.hodge@greywolfgolf.com

April 21, 2022

The Columbia Valley Pioneer • 21

WE ARE HIRING

Passion or interest for Beer, Wine and Spirits?

is accepting resumes.

In front of Canadian Tire

We are looking for a great individual to join our team as a

Liquor Retail Specialist The successful applicant will: • Assist Store Management, and work as a team • Have an eye for merchandising with staff • Be able to work independently • Perform all duties within the store, receiving, • Have passion for beer,wine, spirits and take cash and customer service pride in great customer service • Training and education available • Be physically fit, able to lift up to 30lbs • Work quickly, efficiently, with attention to detail Experience in retail and/or hospitality would be an asset but not necessary.

We will be opening in May and open weekends until school gets out.

Please send your resume to ozzies@box100.com

We offer professional and personal growth through educational opportunities. If you are interested in working in a fun productive environment submit resume to:

PASSION FOR CANNABIS?

Jennifer McLennan gmjenliquor@gmail.com or hand deliver to Invermere Liquor Store, Attn: Jennifer McLennan

In front of Canadian Tire

is now accepting resumes.

We are looking for a great individual to join our team as a

CANNABIS RETAIL SPECIALIST The successful applicant will: • Assist store management and work as a team • Be able to work independently with staff • Be available to work days or evenings • Perform all duties within the store, receiving, • Have a passion for cannabis and take pride in cash and customer service great customer service • Work quickly and efficiently with attention to • Training and education available detail Must obtain Selling it Right Certification as required to work with cannabis.

(Costs reimbursed). Must be 19 years+ to apply.

CHILDCARE MANAGER

If you are interested in working in a new, fun and productive work environment, submit resume to:

The Village of Canal Flats seeks an enthusiastic, caring, and business-minded manager for its new provincially-licensed 40-space childcare facility, currently under development. The childcare centre is expected to be fully constructed in early summer, 2022, and be fully operational by Labour Day.

Jennifer McLennan, gmjencannabis@gmail.com or hand deliver to Invermere Liquor Store (in front of Canadian Tire), Attn: Jennifer McLennan

Those who choose to live and work here enjoy a wide variety of outdoor activities; and the mountains, rivers, lakes and beaches in the community offer a more affordable, East Kootenay, B.C., natural paradise with an Elementary School and many other key amenities.

FAIRMONT & R ADIUM

The childcare centre is a start-up government service which will be offered by the Village of Canal Flats. The manager (with contracted support until December 2022), and in advance of centre opening, will be required to complete centre start-up, including: naming; staff recruitment; final outfitting; grant reporting; policy development; licensing of the Centre; business planning; and other duties.

MOUNTAINSIDE MARKETS Join our team.

We are hiring in various positions both part-time and full-time.

Compensation depending on experience.

Email resumes to: Fairmont Mountainside Market Attn: Oliver Pearce 8 - 4992 Frontage Rd Fairmont Hot Springs

Radium Mountainside Market Attn: Julius Pascua 7546 Main Street East Radium Hot Springs

olivermountainsidemarket@gmail.com

jtp711@yahoo.com

After the start-up phase, the successful applicant will be responsible for but not limited to: • • • • •

Overseeing and maintaining high quality childcare programs that provide safe, happy, play environments that meet all Licensing regulations; Coordinating the care, repairs, and maintenance of the building, playground and the toy inventory; Coordinating the hiring of skilled, qualified educators and monitoring their performance in providing strong, curriculum based, age-appropriate learning programs that cover social, emotional, physical, language, and intellectual development; Completing all forms for childcare grants and subsidy programs; Be the main contact for families interested in childcare and serve as an ambassador for the Village and centre programming

The ideal candidate will be an enthusiastic leader and advocate of children. Experience in business is an asset and post secondary training in business or early childhood education is preferred. This is a municipal service, but it is expected to run under a self-sustaining business model.

The position is full time, permanent. A competitive salary and workplace benefits including enrollment in the Municipal Pension Plan is offered.

To be considered for this excellent opportunity, please send your cover letter and resume (PDFs preferred) to Sylvie Hoobanoff, Interim Chief Administrative Officer, by email to village@canalflats.ca. Applications, including three references from your work life, will be received until April 29, 2022.

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

22 • The Columbia Valley Pioneer

Exploring Badgers Summer Camp Counselor Eva Joseph Learning and Cultural Society has a great opportunity for the right person to be our next Summer Camp Facilitator. This is a temporary full-time position working 9 hrs. a day, 4 days a week from May to September 1, 2022, and weekends off.

The successful candidate will be: • Fun, creative, confident • Comfortable working outside • Able to lead and organize • Enjoy working with youth ages 6-12 • Able to participate in recreational activities, including swimming, hiking, and physically active games • A full-time student in 2022 and continuing in Fall 2022 • Respectful of First Nations • Willing to take a 20 hr. Responsible Adult course The successful candidate must have: • A clear criminal record check for vulnerable persons • Possess a valid Child Safe First Aid Certificate or willing to take • Must be 18 years or older Special Consideration will be given to those who have: • Early Childhood Education Assistant would be an asset • Class four drivers license and NLS certification would be considered and asset To apply, submit cover letter and resume, including 3 references to carrie.littlebadgers@gmail.com.

April 21, 2022

DISTRICT OF INVERMERE

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

EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITIES Summer Students • Parks Labourer/s • Gardener/s The District of Invermere is accepting applications for: • Summer Students to work as part of our Public Works Staff as Parks Labourers, Gardeners and to support outdoor events.

These positions are temporary, full-time (40 hours per week) within the CUPE Local 2982 bargaining unit.

General Hours of work: (days and hours may vary) Parks Labourers • 6 am – 6 pm Wednesday - Sunday.

• 4 pm – 12 am Mondays (Movies in the Mountains events in July and August) Gardeners • 6 am – 6 pm Wednesday - Sunday.

Class 1 LTL Driver between Calgary & Invermere.

Salary range of $90k-$110k/year

$2,000 SIGN ON BONUS! Class 1 OTR Driver between AB & BC. Salary range of $90k-$110k/year

$500 SIGN ON BONUS! Class 5 East Kootenay Delivery Driver.

Salary range of $51k-$56k/year

Please send resume to info@columbiavalleyfreight.com or call 250-342-2044.

Advertise with…

Starting Pay Rate: • Starting at $17.20 per hour Please visit www.invermere.net for full job descriptions.

These positions will remain open until filled.

N E W S PA P E R

District of Invermere Attn: Kindry Luyendyk, Corporate Officer PO Box 339 Invermere, BC, V0A 1K0 Email: info@invermere.net

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

www.columbiavalleypioneer.com

Early Childhood Educator or Early Childhood Educator Infant/Toddler

Mitch and Brienne Chabot

$2,000 SIGN ON BONUS!

your advertising dollar FURTHER

Employment Term: • Employment will commence in early May and will terminate in late August.

WE’RE HIRING

COME JOIN A WINNING TEAM!

STRETCH

Eva Joseph Learning and Cultural Society has a great opportunity for the right people to join our Team. We have one permanent full-time position.

The successful candidate will: • Love working with children and exploring the outdoors.

• Be an active member of our cohesive and cooperative team, which includes staff, parents, and community members.

• Knowledgeable and respectful of local First Nations communities and cultures.

The successful candidate must have: • A clear criminal record check for vulnerable persons.

• Possess a valid class 5 driver’s license.

• Early Childhood Educator license to practice.

• Valid Child Safe First Aid Certificate or willing to take We offer: • Starting wage $21-22/hr. plus wage enhancement • Competitive wages • Great Benefit package • Paid sick leave • Pension Plan

columbiavalleyfreight.com

To apply or for further information, submit cover letter and resume, including 3 references to: Carrie Rickards, General Manager Eva Joseph Learning and Cultural Society • Email: carrie.littlebadgers@gmail.com Thank you to all applicants who apply however, only those candidates selected for an interview will be contacted.

PIONEER CLASSIFIEDS Call: 250-341-6299

They work!

April 21, 2022

The Columbia Valley Pioneer • 23

...Continued “Child Welfare” from page 14 “It is our commitment to work with Indigenous communities to honour and affirm their inherent right to support and protect their children and families in ways that are aligned with their Nation’s beliefs, cultural practices, traditions and laws,” said Mitzi Dean, Minister of Children and Family Development in an Apr 12 news release. “This new community agreement is the result of intensive consultation to understand the needs of the community in relation to their history and cultural heritage and will shape how

the ministry and Simpcw First Nation work together on child-welfare issues now and into the future.”

It was a journey that lasted longer than two years between the Ministry and the Simpcw/Secwépemc First Nation, one of patience, dialogue, and negotiation. The signing of Tcwesétmentem took place in a ceremony preceded by opening prayers. Children from the Neqweyqwelsten school did traditional drumming and sang. When history is made like this it opens a door for other First Nations in B.C. to develop their own agreements with the ministry that speaks to them, and their culture and ways of life.

HELP WANTED

...Continued “Salmon” from page 15 Those that can find passage through fish ladders and other nooks and crannies make themselves more susceptible to becoming prey awaiting hungry birds and mammals.

The Columbia Treaty will be up for review in 2024 for the first time in sixty years. Indigenous voices will be heard on the matter to discuss some of the greatest obstacles the revered salmon and their natural habitats have faced for far too long. In the meantime events like the Bringing Home the Salmon Festival and projects such as the Columbia River Salmon Restoration Initiative are un-

derway.

Akisqnuk Chief Donald Sam is very supportive of the work that is going on with the Columbia River Salmon Restoration Initiative and the upcoming Bringing Home the Salmon Festival.

“That idea of bringing the salmon home, there is an emotional connection there. It is a connection to my elders that have passed on, as well as that cultural connection,”says Chief Donald Sam. “I’ve heard the dream of bringing the salmon back for a while now. If we could bring them back in my lifetime, that would be something. It’s really something to celebrate.”

Sales Associates

JOB FAIR! Invermere BC Liquor Store, 510 13th Street, Invermere Saturday, April 23rd from 11:00 am to 4:00 pm At the Liquor Distribution Branch (LDB) our vision of ‘Service. Relationships. Results.’ is all about providing a valued service, building strong relationships with our stakeholders, and achieving greater results for the province.

Large group of spawning Kokanee salmon.

HELP WANTED

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

We employ nearly 5,000 people in over 200 communities and have been named one of BC’s Top Employers 14 times over for offering exceptional places to work rooted in values of fairness and respect, work-life balance, and inclusion and diversity. We believe that our people are our greatest asset. Being a reputable employer with programs of skills training and professional development are what attract candidates to BC Liquor Stores, while our progressive, forward-thinking culture is why employees with a growth mindset thrive.

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

To be eligible, applicants must meet the following qualification requirements: • Be at least 19 years of age • Be able to legally work in Canada • Be able to provide excellent customer service • Be able to communicate effectively and professionally with the public • Be able to demonstrate aptitude for cashier and related duties, including calculations • Be able to perform physically demanding work, including lifting 20-25 kg boxes • Have a valid Serving It Right Certificate™ • Complete a successful Criminal Record Check BC Liquor Store Sales Associates may be required to operate a variety of mechanical and hand-operated equipment, in addition to handling large volumes of bottles as part of the LDB’s recycling program.

Rates of Pay (as of April 11, 2021): Auxiliary Sales Associate - $19.45 per hour For exciting and challenging retail Auxiliary opportunities with BC Liquor Stores please apply in person at the location listed above.

On November 1, 2021 the BC Public Service announced the COVID-19 Vaccination Policy that defines the conditions and expectations for BC Public Service employees regarding vaccination against COVID-19. Among other possible measures, proof of vaccination will be required. It is a term of acceptance of employment that you agree to comply with all vaccination requirements that apply to the public service.

More information can be found here: https://www2.gov.bc.ca/gov/content/careersmyhr/all-employees/safety-health-well-being/health/covid-19/covid-19-vaccinationpolicy-for-bc-public-service-employees

Youth Outreach Worker We are looking for an experienced Youth Outreach Worker to join our team of vibrant, sincere, and professional individuals.

Position: Permanent Part-time Hours: 20 hours per week Schedule: Weekdays, evenings and weekends as required Start date: Immediately Application deadline: April 19, 2022

Photo from Getty Images

Look up to a higher standard with our classified ads.

Pioneer Classifieds

Duties: The successful candidate will provide a community-based program of outreach and engaging youth with challenging or risk-taking behaviours, offering education and support for healthy life choices. Provide short-term crisis intervention and counselling to at-risk youth between 13 and 18 years of age, and parent-teen mediation using conflict resolution strategies with families referred by the Ministry for Children and Families and Interior Health.

Advocate for youth and support them with career planning, budgeting, and life skills training. Develop counsellor-directed support groups aiming to build self-esteem and problem-solving skills of the youth. Promote program awareness, and network with stake holders.

Qualifications: Preferably an undergraduate degree in a relevant discipline, with two years of related job experience. Other appropriate combinations of education and experience may be considered. Demonstration of experience in counselling youth. A valid B.C. driver’s license is essential. Pursuant to provincial legislation, the applicant must agree to undergo a criminal records investigation.

Application process and deadline: Email a resume and cover letter to Ute Juras, Director of Program Management, Family Dynamix Association at ujuras@fdx.family by 4:30 p.m., April 19, 2022.

We appreciate all applicants for their interest, however, only those candidates selected for interviews will be contacted.

N E W S PA P E R

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

24 • The Columbia Valley Pioneer

FAITH

The joy of the Lord is my strength

LAKE WINDERMERE ALLIANCE CHURCH

By Pastor Wayne Frater Radium Christian Fellowship

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 am either in-person or on ZOOM. To access the zoom link, please visit our website at wvsm.ca. Recorded services are available at YouTube: WVSM Invermere Anglican United Church.

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

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

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

Relief Society, 11:15 a.m.

President Kendyn Mackensie • Columbia Valley Branch • 5014 Fairway, Fairmont Hot Springs 250-439-9041

The Pioneer can

!

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

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

For the past while, especially with all that is going on in the world, we have been looking at the importance of placing the Lord in first place, in every area of our lives. This cannot be overstated, if we wish to have the strength to carry on, we truly need, and must trust the Lord.

Nehemiah 8:10 the last part tells us “neither be ye sorry; for the joy of the Lord is your strength.”

This is the kind of joy we need, to fulfill all our Lord has planned for us each and every day, for all the days we have ahead of us. To give us the strength to carry on, to finish the race, the Lord has placed before us. I believe we can have that inner peace and joy of the Lord our Savior and our King.

So how does this work, how do we live this joyful life, this joy filled life? Not sorrowful, not dejected and sad not grieved or depressed but full of the Lords joy?

This type of living, this joy filled life comes from being in the Lords presence. Spending time with the Lord, in His Word, the Bible, and in prayer.

David had it figured out and he tells us in Psalms 16:7-9 “I will bless the Lord, who hath given me counsel:

www.columbiavalleypioneer.com

my reins also instruct me in the night seasons. I have set the Lord always before me: because he is at my right hand, I shall not be moved. Therefore my heart is glad, and my glory rejoiceth: my flesh also shall rest in hope.”

Paul tells us in 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18 “Rejoice evermore. Pray without ceasing. In every thing give thanks: for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus concerning you.”

And he tells us in Philippians 4:4-9, “ Rejoice in the Lord always: and again I say, Rejoice.

Let your moderation be known unto all men. The Lord is at hand. Be careful for nothing; but in every thing by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known unto God. And the peace of God, which passeth all understanding, shall keep your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus. Finally, brethren, whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honest, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever things are of good report; if there be any virtue, and if there be any praise, think on these things. Those things, which ye have both learned, and received, and heard, and seen in me, do: and the God of peace shall be with you.”

If we want to have a life free from fear, worry, discouragement, depression and so on we have to get close to the Joy giver, Jesus Christ, spend time with Him, study His word and let Him be our strength.

Radius retreat trail certification Submitted by Pat Bavin

RADIUM CHRISTIAN FELLOWSHIP

your message is resonating with residents and visitors alike.

April 21, 2022

Radius Retreat, located 2 km north of Radium Hot Springs became Western Canada’s first certified Forest Bathing Trail in January of 2022, under the guidance of Pat Bavin and the Association of Nature and Forest Therapy Guides and Programs (ANFT).

The ANFT is the world leader in Forest Therapy Guide Certification programs and also provides a Trail Certification Consultant program with a rigorous template system for assessing and designing safe trails within designated sites, of which Bavin holds both Guide licenses.

With the enthusiasm and request of the Radius Retreat management team, Pat started designing and laying out the trail system in the fall of 2018 which meanders through a user zone dedicated only to traditional foot traffic for the purpose of Shinrin Yoku (Forest Bathing in Japanese).

In the spring of 2019, he started trail construction with groups of volunteers who love the accomplishment of trail building and being in nature which continued through the spring of 2020 and 2021. During the winter of 2021 Radius Retreat chose to go ahead with the certification program which Pat had started taking videos of prior to any construction back in 2018,which is part of the comparative process of before and after construction.

The ANFT is adamant about standardizing all development protocols which starts with regional identification, travel access to site boundaries, quality of access within boundaries, parking, on-

site amenities including washrooms and trailhead signage with ANFT logo approval. From the trailhead, an assessment and grading of all natural features and elements must be evaluated so as to make the best use of the forest for people to experience the many sensory opportunities that nature and the guide can offer.

Safety is always of primary importance so landscape hazards, toxic plants, animals and any other critters to be aware of are noted and included for guides so as to assure clients have relaxed and calming experiences. Once construction has met all criteria then a final video is done with verbal recording of changes and experiential features to complete the certification process.

By being certified, Radius Retreat has become identified as an international destination of the global Wellness industry movement. They now are on the ANFT website map which has a rapidly growing crowd of people seeking the designed intention of resorts focusing on the rich healing values of our natural interaction to the outdoors.

This is a perfect fit for Radius as it keeps developing its 1000 acres of managed wilderness with hike in Yurt accommodations, following the old traditional practices of pack it in and pack it out.

You can come for the day for a meditation walk with free access to roam the land before and after or better yet, relax on the balcony or around the fire pit of a cozy yurt with its outdoor kitchen. For more information contact patbavin.com and/or info@radiusretreat.com