Columbia Valley PIoneer, May 12, 2022

May 12, 2022 Vol. 19/Issue 19

The Columbia Valley Pioneer • 1

Your Weekly Source for News and Events

May 12, 2022

The Columbia Valley

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2 • The Columbia Valley Pioneer

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May 12, 2022

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The serene Columbia River winds past Spillimacheen much slower than the increased highway traffic over the last month, due to the TransCanada Highway reroute. With the recent precipitation, the bright spring colours will be popping soon.

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The Columbia Valley Pioneer • 3

VALLEY NEWS

RAD Society brings publicly available adaptive paragolfer machine to Columbia Valley ing the paragolfer). It was the first time I’ve been able to stand up while having a social drink in seven year, since my accident.”

Bolt emphasized that although the paragolfer is hostThe Recreation Adapted (RAD) Society’s new paraed at Copper Point Golf Club, McClain can take it to golfer machine is now permanently here in the Columbia any golf course in the valley. She also outlined that the Valley, and is set this summer to become one of very few paragolfer “can be used for so much more than golf.” such devices available for the public to rent.

It could, for instance, be used at Rod and Gun Club The Pioneer has previously reported on the RAD Soevents for an adaptive user wanting to participate in ciety’s success in bringing the world’s first public rental shooting or archery. It can be used simply to go for a adaptive cross country ski sledge to the Columbia Valwalk. ley this past winter, which proved a smash hit with local “If you can’t ambulate well, it can be used to help residents and visitors alike. But RAD Society founder you with all sorts of activities. It’s helpful for many Tanelle Bolt never planned to stop at just one adaptive recreation device and has been hard at work for months stretching and fitness exercises,” said Bolt. “And, as I mentioned, it can also be used in social settings in which to bring a paragolfer for rent here too. you want to be upright. A wedding, for instance, or a The paragolfer initially arrived in the Columbia conference at the Columbia Valley Centre.”

Valley in the fall, after the golf season was over. The Bolt explained that the paragolfer is not just for RAD Society lent it out over the winter to Heritage wheelchair users, but for anybody who faces mobility Point Golf Club in Calgary, where it was used at the issues. One user of the machine is a 39-year old former club’s indoor golf simulators. soldier who had a tumour in his hip and now can’t supTwo or three weeks ago it came back to the valley, where it will be kept at Copper Point Golf Club on The RAD Society’s new paragolfer is now here in the valley, avail- port himself to stand up. Another is an 88-year old man behalf of the RAD Society, and where it can be rented able for the public to rent throughout the summer. Last week so- with balance troubles (“when his wife and son watched out for use at Copper Point, or at any other golf cours- ciety founder Tanelle Bolt gave the adaptive machine its first spin him use it golf, they were crying,” said Bolt). at Copper Point Golf Club and was delighted with the results. es in the Columbia Valley.

Photo submitted Continued on page 13...

“We are thrilled to have it here, available for the

By Steve Hubrecht steve@columbiavalleypioneer.com

whole valley to use,” said Bolt.

Last week Bolt and Copper Point head golf professional Scott McLain headed out on the course, giving the paragolfer its first trial run in the valley. The result?

“It was pretty cool. I can stand up and golf almost like I used to. My slice is even gone,” said Bolt who sustained a severe spinal cord injury and uses a wheelchair.

“It fits in the clubhouse too, which is great. After golfing, we went to the clubhouse and I was able to stand up (us-

Three people sent to hospital after triple vehicle collision near Edgewater Accident is most serious so far during this spring’s TransCanada closure

By Steve Hubrecht steve@columbiavalleypioneer.com Three people were sent to hospital following a triple motor vehicle collision just north of Edgewater over the weekend.

The accident occurred at approximately 1:30 p.m. in the afternoon on Mother’s Day — Sunday, May 8 — and several local emergency response agencies, including the Edgewater Fire Department, the Invermere Fire Rescue crew, B.C. Ambulance paramedics and the Columbia Valley RCMP — were on scene shortly thereafter. STARS Air Ambulance also responded, once the extent of the incident became apparent.

“A northbound commercial transport truck crossed the centreline and struck a southbound pickup truck. The pickup truck collided with a barricade, then struck a northbound SUV,” Columbia Valley RCMP Sergeant Darren Kakuno told the Pioneer.

He explained that the transport truck driver and the SUV driver were unharmed, but the three occupants of

the pickup truck were extricated using the ‘Jaws of Life’ (hydraulic rescue tools) and taken to hospital. The driver of the pickup truck, whose injuries were the most serious, was airlifted by STARS Air Ambulance. The two passengers of the pickup were transported to hospital by ground ambulance.

“It seemed as though they were serious, but non-life threatening injuries,” said Kakuno, adding that the driver of the commercial transport truck was issued a violation ticket and charged for crossing the centreline.

The accident came during this spring’s closure of the TransCanada Highway for upgrades to the Kicking Horse Canyon between Field and Golden.

This is the third such closure in the past year, and each has resulted in a dramatic surge in the sheer volume of traffic passing through the Columbia Valley, as the detour around the closure sends all cross-country traffic down Highway 93 South to Radium, then back up Highway 95 to Golden.

Continued on page 4...

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RCMP Report Submitted by Sgt. Darren Kakuno Detachment Commander Columbia Valley RCMP

Lifetime Warranty

May 12, 2022

This past week, May 2 through May 8, the Columbia Valley RCMP responded to 73 calls for service. The following is a summary of some of the files our officers responded to.

• On Tuesday, May 3 at about 2:30 p.m., a gas station in Windermere reported a female had entered the store and either stole or failed to pay for an item. An officer attended and was able to identify a suspect through video surveillance. The officer spoke to the suspect who insisted they had forgotten to pay for the item. The item was returned to the store and charges are not being recommended in this case.

• On Thursday, May 5 at about 4:40 p.m., an off-duty officer observed an Oldsmobile Intrigue on Highway 93/95 near Radium Hot Springs being driving by an adult male with outstanding warrants. Other officers in the area located the vehicle at a residence near Invermere and observed the driver running from the car. The individual was located inside the residence and arrested without incident on his outstanding warrants. The man was brought before a judge the following day and held ...Continued “Collision” from page 3

in custody.

• On Friday, May 6 at about 1:30 p.m., an officer was conducting patrols in Radium Hot Springs and noticed a U-Haul cube van abandoned on Horsethief Forest Service Road. The officer ran the plate and confirmed it had been stolen out of Surrey on April 30. Anyone with information about the abandoned U-Haul van is asked to contact the Columbia Valley RCMP. • On Saturday, May 7 at about 10 p.m. Columbia Valley RCMP officers conducted a check stop at Athalmer Road and Lakeview Road in Invermere. Officers checked approximately 50 vehicles and were happy to report no infractions.

• On Sunday, May 8 at about 1:30 p.m., emergency crews responded to a three vehicle collision on Highway 95 north of Edgewater. A northbound commercial transport truck crossed the centerline and struck a southbound pickup truck. The pickup truck collided with a barricade then struck a northbound SUV. Three occupants of the pickup truck were transported to hospitals with non-life threatening injuries. The driver of the commercial transport truck was issued a violation ticket for crossing a double solid line contrary to the Motor Vehicle Act. Read the full story on page 3. circumstances. The teamwork was a big contributing factor in how well the response went,” Sinclair told the Pioneer.

The first two closures – in spring and fall of 2021 – corresponded with huge spikes in the number of motor vehicle accidents in the Columbia Valley.

“This has been the most serious accident we’ve responded to during this closure,” said Kakuno, adding that “we haven’t seen as many accidents during this closure as we did during the previous closure last fall.

Likely because of the better weather. Last fall we were contending with a lot of snow and ice.”

Both Kakuno and Columbia Valley Rural Fire and Rescue Chief Drew Sinclair praised the coordinated responses and efforts of all the emergency perOne passenger in a triple-vehicle collision near Edgewater sonnel and first responders involved in the incident.

“I couldn’t be happier with the teamwork of all the on Mother’s Day was airlifted by STARS Air Ambulance groups. Everybody did really well under challenging following the accident. Two other were taken to hospital by ground ambulance.

Photo submitted

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May 12, 2022

The Columbia Valley Pioneer • 5

#Ktunaxahomelands Campaign launched May 3

By Chadd Cawson Local Journalism Initiative Reporter People travel far and wide to enjoy recreation in the beautiful Columbia Valley.

Now, both travellers and locals will be able to gain a better understanding of Indigenous knowledge of how the mountains, waterways (such as the Kootenay and Columbia River), and the magnificent Hoodoos were formed. The significance of this can be taken in from a local Ktunaxa perspective through the #Ktunaxahomelands Campaign, which officially launched on May 3.

“I noticed most of my life that our nation was really invisible in our own homelands,” says Janice Alpine, leader of the Ktunaxa Regional Branding Initiative and tourism liaison for the broader region that encompasses the Ktunaxa homelands.

“When I would travel for business conferences, I was welcomed. I was informed on whose homeland I was entering. When I returned to my own homelands, the same acknowledgement was not there, and I knew this had to be fixed. So, I started developing a Ktunaxa Regional Branding Initiative to support the promotion of the region and, in the branding of this region, it was realized that the Ktunaxa people were missing a huge component.”

After the idea came about in 2017, Alpine partnered up with Kootenay Rockies Tourism to develop an audit used when approaching different visitor centres, chamber offices, museums, and other tourism operators to see what information they had on the Ktunaxa First Nation. “People who work in tourism like visitor centers are not always clear on who the first people were and the history of the land, and Janice has been making that effort to educate for years,” says Kristy Jahn-Smith the Executive Director for Cranbrook Tourism. “We saw an opportunity as the Destination Marketing Organization (DMO) on behalf of the community to promote the Ktunaxa

homelands as a place for visitors. Cranbrook Tourism, as well as others across the region, felt there was a bit of a disconnect as we discovered more visitors were interested in the history of the Indigenous communities of the area, but we felt we didn’t have all the tools and information to share those stories with them.”

Now with this being just the beginning through the #Ktunaxahomelands Campaign, visitors can read stories and have access to recommended itineraries, while watching three videos showcasing different aspects of these #Ktunaxahomelands on the ZenSeekers website. “When our visitors come into our region, they ask two questions. They ask what tribe is here and what they used this land for, and that means the place where they are standing so we answer those questions and it also reminds our locals the Ktunaxa creations are what made the landscape,” says Alpine. “It reminds them this is what our mountains, and water systems represent as well as the formations in the land such as the Hoodoos. It’s all part of our creation.”

A small glimpse of what is now available to the public can be seen at https:// www.zenseekers.com/expedition/ktunaxahomelands. With much more to come in the future work will continue with Ktunaxa businesses and their artisans to develop authentic Ktunaxa products used to inform travellers of the land’s rich history.

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6 • The Columbia Valley Pioneer

May 12, 2022

PERSPECTIVE

Recognizing our unsung heroes

Historical Lens

By Haley Grinder haley@columbiavalleypioneer.com They are the unsung heroes of the 21st century — their distinctive humble nature evident only by their N95 masks and signature scrubs, slightly wrinkled from working prolonged shifts. They are the ones who sacrificed time with their own families to help total strangers in need. They are the ones who abandoned the safety of their own bubble amidst a global pandemic. They are our nurses.

This moment of recognition for such a hardworking sector of society comes during National Nursing Week, which runs from May 9 to 15. Typically the time is meant to honour and celebrate our nurses, but this year, it marks a more solemn time in history. The B.C. Nurses’ Union (BCNU) says in a press release from May. 9, “This year, we aren’t celebrating. Instead, BCNU is shining a light on the critical state of our health-care system and the devastating impact on nurses, patients and our communities.”

The toll of working in an already high-pressure field is immense, not just physically, but also mentally. Witnessing countless deaths, working longer hours, and seeing loved ones less often are just a few of the challenges our nurses face — made even more difficult with critical short staffing and limited supply levels. Columbia Valley locals and tourists witness the hardships of short-staffing more than most areas, but the whole province is feeling the struggle, especially now, over two years into the COVID-19 pandemic. Due to this short-staffing crisis, the BCNU adds that, “not only is patient care suffering, but the pressure of having to do more with less is having profound impacts on nurses’ physical and mental health.” They take care of us. Now it is time for us to take care of them.

BCNU is demanding government action to address this current health care crisis, which has resulted in masses travelling to Victoria this week to deliver a message: “the health-care system is buckling under the pressure.

Enough is enough. We need action now.” With 82 per cent of B.C. nurses reporting worsened mental health in the past two years, it’s time to take action. It’s no wonder why this statistic is so high either; “The act of holding a dying patients’ hand while they lay intubated and alone or balancing an iPad so family members can say their final good-byes is something that stays with you,” says BCNU President Aman Grewal. “It’s had a profound impact on our members, and they are not allowed to share this reality openly.”

This year, Jun. 11 will mark the 40th anniversary for the B.C. Nurses’ Union, making it important to share our appreciation for these nurses more now than ever before.

To read first-hand anonymous accounts of five nurses’ personal pandemic experiences, or simply find out how you can take action, visit https://helpbcnurses.ca/.

Mr. and Mrs. Simon (Katherine) Ronacher. Located on Ronacher Farm off of Windermere Loop Road. C1862, 1936, courtesy of Windermere District Historical Society

Highway mortality Dear Editor, Members of the Lake Windermere District Rod and Gun Club living north of Radium Hot Springs, were becoming quite alarmed at the numbers of wildlife killed along Highway 95 in 2021. For the reader that was the first year in the spring and fall, Trans-Canada Highway traffic was redirected through Kootenay National Park then north along Highway 95 to Golden, due to road construction.

We decided to dig deeper on this so requested, first directly to the Highways Branch with no success then through the Freedom of Information, for the highway mortality records for the 5 years prior to 2021 as well as 2021 records. The club also received highway mortality records for the Radium sheep herd from the Wildlife Branch, which the club has assisted in collecting for a number of years.

The Highways Branch records covered various species of animals killed between Radium Hot Springs to Golden. For the years 2016 to 2020 the average fatality numbers were: Deer – 38/yr.; Elk – 2.4/yr.; Bear – 2.2/yr.; Skunk – 2.4/yr.; Coyote – less than 1/yr. For the year 2021, the numbers show

quite a dramatic increase: Deer – 133, Elk – 14, Bear – 7, Skunk – 9, Coyote – 3, Otter – 1, Badger – 1. Of course what the numbers do not show are the animals hit and injured ,made it off the highway to die some distance from where struck. As well we do not know how many pregnant animals are in these numbers nor the sex of the animals to reach an understanding in how the dynamics of the animal community is being impacted over and above the mortality.

The Radium sheep mortality records date back 39 years. The same impact due to increased traffic again is quite disturbing on how highway mortality is impacting the herd. For residents living here we have seen a large increase in traffic due to tourism and related activities over the last 20 years. The numbers collected are from the Radium turning circle South 2.5 km., North – 1.5 km. and 1.5 km.

East – to the national park gate. In the last 20 years (2002- 2021), there have been 180 sheep killed, whereas in the prior 19 years (1981 to 2001), there were only 62 sheep killed.

Continued on page 7...

The Columbia Valley

CANADIAN COMMUNITY NEWSPAPER AWARD 2013

Pioneer

is independently owned and operated, published weekly by Robert W. Doull, President and Publisher, Misko Publishing Limited Partnership.

Box 868, #8, 1008 - 8th Ave., Invermere, B.C. V0A 1K0

Phone: 250-341-6299 | Toll Free (866) 496-8047 info@columbiavalleypioneer.com | www.columbiavalleypioneer.com

Amanda Nason

Associate Publisher/ Sales Manager Ext. 102

Haley Grinder Editor Ext. 107

Steve Hubrecht Magazine Editor/ Reporter Ext. 105

Chadd Cawson Local Journalism Initiative Reporter Ext. 106

Lerissa McLaughlin Christina Boucher Sales Office Representative Administrator Ext. 103 Ext. 101

Emily Rawbon Graphic Design Ext. 104

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

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

May 12, 2022

LETTERS

...Continued “Highway” from page 6

So to sum up this unsettling news we have another two years for sure of Trans-Canada highway traffic using the Radium to Golden highway spring and summer. The high number of wildlife being killed cannot sustain this and we will see dramatic decrease in wildlife populations for the species impacted. The same holds true for the Radium sheep.

In 20 years we have killed what represents an entire herd. The Rod and Gun members wanted to pass this information along to the public so you were aware of a main impact to wildlife population decline in our valley.

Richard Hoar, Habitat Stewardship Committee, Lake Windermere District Rod and Gun Club

Newspapers are not packaging Submitted by Jamie Irving, Chair and Paul Deegan, President and Chief Executive Officer, News Media Canada Across the world, municipalities and provinces have been moving their recycling programmes to Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR). EPR is great in theory and in practice. It levies fees on manufacturers and retailers for the packaging that wraps everything from the food we eat to the toys our kids play with. Any parent who has helped their child open a new toy knows that between the thick plastic that practically takes garden shears to open, the twist ties, and the cardboard, there is still way too much wasteful packaging associated with so many products.

EPR has one laudable objective: Reduce packaging in the waste/recycling stream. It does so by shifting the burden of recycling costs from taxpayers to producers. When producers must pay these fees, they innovate and find ways to wrap their products in far less packaging.

Since the advent of the Blue Box, newspapers have had the highest level of collection of all recyclable materials – more than plastics and even more than aluminum. Newspapers continue to be a valuable recovered resource in the recycling stream. They have a stable end market and high commercial value. And recycling newspapers saves trees.

Newspapers have always been a public good – The dissemination

of news to the public is a necessary element of a vibrant and healthy democracy and a well-functioning society. Fake news – around COVID-19, elections, and many other issues – has highlighted the importance and value of credible news provided by trusted media sources. Newspapers allow the reader to pause, engage, and reflect – providing an important service that is not met through other media.

So, what does any of this have to do with extended producer responsibility?

Until recently in Ontario, the EPR program in most provinces of Canada has treated newspapers the same as waste packaging. Unlike product packaging, the newspaper is the product. Publishers have moved to thinner paper to lower our footprint. Driving up the cost of newspaper production with EPR fees drives down the content as newspapers are forced to cut pages and, therefore, value to readers. The knock-on effects are a loss of jobs, many of which are unionized, in a sector that is already facing many external challenges, and a less informed citizenry.

Across Canada, newspapers face a patchwork of provincial regulations, administrative regimes, and fees. The levies charged are based on opaque formulas often devised by monopolies controlled by waste haulers, retailers, and consumer packaged goods companies.

Continued on page 8...

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

Columbia River Treaty Upcoming Information Sessions May 16, 2022 Canada-U.S. Negotiations Hear the latest updates from Canadian negotiators and learn about the process for modernizing the Treaty in Canada and the U.S.

June 15, 2022 Exploring Ecosystem Improvements Hear about Indigenous-led studies exploring how Treaty operations can be modified to improve Columbia Basin ecosystems.

6 p.m. – 8 p.m. PT / 7 p.m. – 9 p.m. MT Online or by phone via Zoom For more information and to register visit engage.gov.bc.ca/columbiarivertreaty/info-sessions Questions? Email columbiarivertreaty@gov.bc.ca

8 • The Columbia Valley Pioneer

May 12, 2022

WE ARE CELEBRATING!

Victoria Gordon’s

90 Birthday & th

bership with the BC. Association of Farmers’ Markets (BCAFM). This membership comes with strict regulations — for instance, 51 per cent of the market goods The Agri-Park Farmers’ Market at the crossroads will must be food, and there cannot be any out-of-province open next week, for what organizers are hoping will be its vendors — which contribute to making the Agri-Park biggest and best season yet. market smaller than the others.

This summer will be the sixth season of operation for As Rose explained, however, that’s just fine with the the popular market, which is held each Wednesday af- Agri-Park market vendors. ternoon and evening from May through September. The “The WDFI was keen to promote local food and lofun starts next Wednesday, May 18. cal farmers. It really is the only farmers’ market that is Several changes are afoot this year, Market Manager primarily all about local food, instead of being part-farmAnne Rose told the Pioneer. Chief among those changes ers’ market part-tourist market,” said Rose. “We are very are the new hours, which will see the market start earli- specifically a ‘make it, bake it or grow it’ market...That er on Wednesday afternoons — at 3 p.m. — and finish makes a really nice feeling. Everybody involved with the earlier in the evening — at 6:30 p.m. It’s a big shift from market gets along very well with each other. Our venthe market’s traditional time slot of 5 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. dors always say how much they really enjoy the Agri-Park “There just wasn’t much happening in that last hour, market.” from 6:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m.,” Rose told the Pioneer. “In The range of goods on offer is considerable: plenty talking with vendors, everybody seemed happy with the of fresh produce, baked treats, fresh-grown micro-greens, idea of moving the time forward.” locally made high-quality chocolate, and much more.

The 3 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. time slot is sure to make Last year, at peak, the Agri-Park market had 20 venthe Agri-Park market apdors, and 350 custompeal to people who are ers. leaving work or picking That could well up their kids from school expand this season: and who want to grab some of last year’s vensome produce to cook dors are unable to rewith on their way home. turn to the Agri-Park Although the hours are market this year, but earlier, the market will Rose has recruited 10 remain on Wednesdays, new vendors. In total, where it does not conshe estimates there flict with any of the many will be somewhere other farmers’ markets between 25 and 28 in the Columbia Valley, vendors this year, and most of which fall on Fri- The Columbia Valley’s first Farmers Market of the 2021 season took she’s hoping the cusday, Saturday or Sunday. place on Wednesday, May 19, at Windermere Agri-Park, opposite tomer count will hit Photo by Ryan Watmough new highs too.

The Agri-Park began Copper Point Resort. in 2017, set up on land The Agri-Park owned by the Windermere District Farmers’ Institute market will have new permanent, park-style washrooms (WDFI) and is different than most of the Columbia too, thanks to a Columbia Basin Trust (CBT) grant.

Valley farmers’ market, not only because of its mid-week To find out more, look up Agri-Park Farmers Market time slot, but because it is the only one that has a mem- on Facebook.

By Steve Hubrecht steve@columbiavalleypioneer.com

NATIONAL NURSING WEEK MAY 9 TO 15

COTR.CA

BOARD MEMBERS www.valleyfoundation.ca

We are looking for passionate community members to join us in enriching lives in the Columbia Valley.

The Columbia Valley Community Foundation manages endowment funds whereby the donations are invested, and the investment returns from these funds are granted to local charities and post-secondary students to benefit our Columbia Valley communities and citizens. The Foundation holds over $3.5 million in assets (2021) and through its history has supported almost 300 community projects and 225 post-secondary students, granting over $750,000.

The CVCF Board meets monthly to guide the strategic direction of the Foundation Duties of the Board of Directors include: • Acting in accordance with the Foundation’s vision, mission, and values • Participating in strategic planning and risk management activities • Envisioning the future (setting goals and priorities) • Setting policy (creating guidelines for decision-making) • Hiring and monitoring pay and performance of the Executive Director • Developing and enhancing links to the community • Representing the Foundation in the community • Providing for the prudent management of the Foundation’s resources • Participating, through one or more Standing Committee(s), in the work of the Foundation • Upholding the terms of Volunteers and Directors for the Foundation, including confidentiality, privacy and conflict of interest Successful candidates will be elected to the board at the Annual General Meeting on June 14, 2022.

Interested in this opportunity? Please email a cover letter and resume to info@valleyfoundation.ca by 12 p.m. Friday, May 20, 2022.

Questions may be directed to Thiloma Hofer, Executive Director at info@valleyfoundation.ca or 250-342-2845.

...Continued “Newspapers” from page 7 In British Columbia, for example, the levy on newsprint went up by 80 per cent in a single year, while the levy on plastics remained flat. That’s not fair.

We cannot have a misguided system that puts newspapers at risk at a time when the public needs trusted sources of information more than ever before.

The unintended consequences of EPR on newspapers are to reduce the number of pages in a newspaper or for the paper to simply close. This has a detrimental effect on both readers and advertisers across Canada.

Recently, the Ontario government issued a regu-

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IN

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lation that will exempt newspapers from EPR levies in the province. Canada’s newspaper publishers applaud this change, and we hope other provinces will follow Ontario’s lead. Alberta is about to put an EPR regime in place, and British Columbia is working through changes in that province. We hope Premier Jason Kenney and Premier John Horgan will exempt newspapers.

To its considerable credit, the federal government has taken meaningful steps to support local journalism across Canada. Provincial and municipal governments should not undo that with punitive fees that are based on the flawed premise that newspapers are unnecessary and wasteful packaging.

es

Sale: Heirloom & Speciality Tomato Fri, Sat & Sun

R

Join us for birthday cake, tea and coffee.

FA

You are invited!

Thursday, May 19th, 1 - 3 p.m.

Invermere Canadian Legion

winderberry.ca

Wednesday Agri-Park Farmers’ Market moves to earlier time slot

Sale $6.49 Reg. $7.49

Mon - Sat 9 - 5pm • Sun 10 - 4 • Hwy 93/95 Windermere • 250-342-3236 • Bursting with Colourful annuals. Large selection of perennials & shrubs. • Cafe cooks up breakfast, lunch, treats & frozen meals.

May 12, 2022

Local resident wins Achievement Foundation Community Award

By Steve Hubrecht steve@columbiavalleypioneer.com

new space all too apparent to anybody who set foot in the place.

“We had about 500 square feet of space across five different, small rooms.

People were constantly having to duck any time they came in,” recalled Mack.

“We badly needed the new place, and it’s turned out great, and has helped make the food bank more visible.”

Mack estimates that roughly 100 families make regular use of the local food bank.

“It’s busy,” said Mack. “The pandemic has been hard for many people. There’s been inflation. Many families are struggling just to get by, just to have a place to stay. They need to make some hard choices, and there’s a lot of pressure just to make ends meet. It is hard — very hard – to get out of situations like that. Healthy food can be a big expense, so our role as a food bank is to alleviate some of that pressure, to make sure people can have healthy food.”

Mack is a retired teacher, who moved here years ago from Calgary after he finished work. Not long after arriving in the valley, Mack joined the Columbia Valley Food Bank as a volunteer, after a friend told him the organization could use more help.

“I started out packing food hampers,” he told the Pioneer. “I was always struck by how grateful, and how gracious, the people using the food bank were. And still are.”

In 2015, Mack became the food bank’s vice chair, and then in 2016 he became chair, staying in that position until 2020. Although he’s no longer on the food bank’s board of directors (having served the maximum number of years — six – that any one person can serve on the board), he is still working with the organization as a volunteer.

“It’s a great gig, and what you do makes a difference for a lot of people,” he said, adding the Columbia Valley Food Bank is currently looking for more volunteers. Find out more at www.columbiavalleyfoodbank.ca.

A Toby Benches resident was named as a B.C. Achievement Foundation Community Award winner earlier this month.

The nonprofit B.C. Achievement Foundation celebrates the spirit of excellence across the province and recognizes the efforts of B.C.’s volunteers, community leaders, youth, artists and entrepreneurs.

This year is the 19th year the foundation gave out its community awards, and among the 20 recipients for 2022 announced on Monday, May 2 by B.C. Premier John Horgan and foundation society Chair Anne Giardini was a valley local: Toby Benches resident Lawrie Mack.

The foundation explained that Mack was given the award for his four-year term as Columbia Valley Food Bank (CVFB) Chair, during which time Mack was able to significantly increase the food bank’s profile.

“The Columbia Valley Food Bank went from a small community organization to one with an active, engaged board and volunteer base. Lawrie instigated a delivery program to include more remote communities, reaching individuals and families who were previously unable to access services,” wrote the foundation in a press release, adding that Mack was also instrumental in helping the food bank get a new facility.

“He (Mack) took the lead in negotiating an agreement with the District (of Invermere) to finance and build on land owned by the town,” wrote the foundation. “Lawrie wrote multiple grant proposals to cover building expenses, oversaw the hiring of a project manager to handle the construction, encouraged the provision of ‘in-kind’ donations from businesses and organizations, and became the face of the biggest project the CVFB had ever undertaken.”

“I was humbled to learn, first, that I had been nominated, and then, later, that I had won,” Mack told the Pioneer.

“I definitely feel like the whole team at the food bank should be getting the award along with me. There are so many volunteers that make the food bank what it is, and truth be told, they are doing the hard stuff. I’m just the face of it.”

The food bank used to operate out of the basement of the Summit Youth Centre Hub, and quarters were tight, Lawrie Mack recently won a B.C. Achievement Foundation making the need for a Community Award in recognition of his years of volunteer service with the Columbia Valley Food Bank. Photo submitted

The Columbia Valley Pioneer • 9

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10 • The Columbia Valley Pioneer

May 12, 2022

OUT OF OFFICE…

May 9-13 is International Economic Development Week!

We are celebrating locally by showcasing Columbia Valley businesses and the hard workers behind the brands on our social channels.

We have so many talented people creating, innovating, and building our local economy and it is time to celebrate them. To kick off celebrating Economic Development, here are just three of our local movers and shakers.

Shona Robichaud and Robyn Oliver, Pottery Playground - Passion meets business for Shona Robichaud (pictured) and Robyn Oliver. In the very studio where Alice Hale turned her pottery, people of all ages and abilities will be welcome to learn or build their craft. Starting on June 14, they will offer pottery workshops for everything from wheel throwing to sculpting. All ages and skill levels are welcome, and they will even be hosting kid’s camps!

Kerstan Hopkins and Matt Larsen, Hopkins Harvest - Local start-ups will have a new market to showcase their business starting the May Long Weekend 2022. Kerstan and Matt, owners of Hopkins Harvest are aiming to add to the vibrancy in Windermere with the Merchant’s Corner Artisan’s Market. Open 7 days a week, it will give market vendors an exciting opportunity to gain new clients and customers with more days and time availability, outside of the current market offerings in the Columbia Valley.

Katherine Bonell, Rural Roots Early Childhood Education Institute - Katherine, along with the families who opened the Rural Roots Early Learning Centre, are staunch advocates of quality child care. When Katherine isn’t working directly with children, she is advocating for early childhood educators and the children and families who access their services. Along with a group of dedicated parents, she founded the

Rural Roots Childcare Centre in Wilmer.

Not only are they are caring for local children, but the first students will be graduating from the school as Early Childhood Educators this summer.

For more local profiles visit follow us on Facebook @ livecolumbiavalley. We want to hear about all the wonderful things you are doing in the Valley CONTACT US for the Valley! Let TODAY AND us know here to HAVE YOUR have eyes on BUSINESS FEATURED your story:

250-342-2844

May 12, 2022

cvevents cv events.ca .ca

The Columbia Valley Pioneer • 11

WHAT’S HAPPENING? POWERED BY THE COLUMBIA VALLEY CHAMBER

Thursday, May 12 • 6:30 p.m.: Live Concert - The Red Dirt Skinners at the Columbia Valley Centre

Friday, May 13 • 7 p.m.: The Wardens Live Show at the Columbia Valley Centre – songs and stories about wilderness as part of the Wings over the Rockies.

Saturday, May 14th • 11-3 p.m.: Groundswell Spring Plant Sale and Fundraiser. Buy Annuals, Perennials, Herbs, Vegetables and tomatoes • 1-4 p.m.: Kids Fest with Wings over the Rockies! Come to Pothole Park (entry is free).

Kids must be accompanied by a parent/guardian.

• 6 p.m.: Open Season DJ Dance Party. Ages 19+ after dinner hours at the Station Pub! • 7 p.m.: Tight Bright Paint Night at Begginnings ($50/per person). Blacklight Painting, Tight Bright clothing, DJ Rukus and cocktails!

May 15th and 16th • 7 p.m.: Chicago Blues Hall of Fame artist, Michael Charles will be at the Horsethief pub.

May 17th • 6 p.m.: Painting Fundamentals (first of a 6-week art class lesson sessional) with Artinka Studio and Art School. Please register on the website.

May 18th • 3-6 p.m.: The first Agri-Park Farmers Market of the Season.

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

scan me!

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

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! 12 p.m.: 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.

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.

• 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

12 • The Columbia Valley Pioneer

2022 ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING

Wednesday, May 25, 2022 7 p.m. Lions Hall, Chamber of Commerce, 651 Hwy 93/95, Invermere

Nominations for or interest in a Board of Director position can be made by emailing summittrailmakers@gmail.com. Following the formal meeting is a special 20th Year Anniversary Presentation. Come help us celebrate: beverages, food and cake will be provided! Door Prize: 13”X39” canvas print photo by Joe Lucas. STMS Memberships will be available at $15 single or $20 family.

Celebration of Life for

Emil “Bucky” Dalke May 13th to 15th Horsethief Hideout 8250 Westside Road

Service starts Saturday, May 14th at 1 p.m.

Everyone welcome ~ All weekend!

Recharge your Summer

Raffle

By Chadd Cawson Local Journalism Initiative Reporter

$500 Term Deposit

from Kootenay Savings Credit Union (minimum one-year, non-redeemable)

Purchase tickets Saturdays at the Invermere Farmers’ Market or direct at the Hospice office open 12-4pm Monday-Friday (926 7th Avenue) Winning ticket drawn @ 4PM on

SATURDAY

Tickets and posters sponsored by Palliser Printing

piqued my interest. The infrastructure had been neglected, and there were five straight days of really heavy rain that caused what gets termed ‘flashy’ flooding, and then The District of Invermere has a new director of pub- the next thing you knew, you couldn’t get into or out of lic works and operations. Professional Engineer Angela the subdivision.”

MacLean arrived in the Columbia Valley in mid-April to MacLean’s family already included several engineers, fill the role. so it seemed natural to follow in their footsteps. She It has been many years since Inearned first an undergraduate degree, vermere has had a director of public and then a Master’s degree in civil works and operations. The position engineering, both from the Univerused to exist, but at a certain point sity of Waterloo. the district decided to go without She worked as a consultant for somebody in that role, disbursing several years, then took a job with the responsibilities entailed in the the City of Waterloo, before becomjob among other positions. ing an engineering project manager Over recent months Invermere at the City of Barrie.

Chief Administrative Officer AnIn her work, she found herdrew Young has been leading efforts self drawn to complex operational to re-establish the position to hire projects, ranging from figuring out somebody for it. which plants would be best for a Those efforts came to fruition sediment reuse program to replacing with MacLean, who worked in muculverts in a historical waste site with nicipal engineering and operations Angela MacLean started in her role as contaminated ground water and unroles at two different mid-sized cities the District of Invermere’s new director derlying gas main. in Ontario before deciding to relo- of public works and operations in mid“Exactly the kind of work that cate to the Columbia Valley along April. would appeal to really nerdy engiPhoto submitted with her family. neers,” she told the Pioneer.

MacLean grew up in Sydney, Nova Scotia. She beMacLean has been an avid outdoorswoman her came interested in engineering as a kid, after one of the whole life and had already been visiting the Columbia east coast’s infamous storms flooded her part of Sydney Valley and the Kootenay region for years before she deand left her subdivision cut off from the outside world. cided to move here.

“The army came in, and built a temporary bridge for “The outdoors has always held great appeal for me,” the few hundred people that were stranded,” MacLean she said, adding that skiing, hiking and paddling are recalled. “I found the whole thing fascinating. It really among her favourite pursuits.

By Steve Hubrecht steve@columbiavalleypioneer.com

100 events over seven days

Value of $3,800 from Lakeside Bike Co. (can be applied to a different bike)

SEptember

Invermere hires new director of public works and operations

Wings Over the Rockies Festival underway

$3,800 Verve 2+ E-Bike

Tickets: 3 for $20

May 12, 2022

3

The Wings Over the Rockies Nature Festival took flight earlier this week on May 9 and will run until May 15, with 100 events over the course of seven days. This is the Wings over the Rockies’ 25th festival after a short hiatus due to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic.

“We had to take a sabbatical; we cancelled the 2020 festival due to COVID. Last year we went online only and had only a few hundred in attendance, so this would have been our 26th annual festival had it not been for the pandemic,” shares Ross MacDonald, President for Wings over Rockies. “A nature festival of our magnitude is one of the largest and most varied in Western Canada which requires a tremen-

dous amount of planning and expense, and we have 75 volunteers giving their time.”

Events are scheduled to take place in the Columbia Valley ranging from Wasa to Golden. This year’s key-note speaker will be internationally-known conservationist, writer, and photographer Dr. Harvey Locke, who is also one of the founders of the Yellowstone to Yukon Initiative. Dr. Locke will speak at the gala banquet on Saturday, May 14, which also happens to be International Migratory Bird Day. “It’s an opportunity to hear a world-renowned naturalist presenter sharing his insight on how to protect biodiversity,” says MacDonald. With so many diverse events to choose from there is truly something for everyone.

Continued on page 13...

May 12, 2022

The Columbia Valley Pioneer • 13

A free event for kids is happening on Saturday at Pothole Park in Invermere.

Some events are recreational like the “With over a half a dozen kids festivals guided hikes beginning at Columbia Lake over the years the focus remains at introor paddles up the Columbia River, while ducing children to nature,” adds Macsome are more hands-on and educational. Donald. Main Street Fun and Games “All events and tours are all led by owner Dee Connell has been instrumental experts. They might be bird, wildlife, or as one of the original organisers for this plant-based,” says MacDonald. One of this festival for children over the last 25 years. year’s facilitators is Ben Mitchell-Banks of “We are providing several different the Lake Windermere District Rod and crafts, as well as bringing in Sprinkles the Gun Club. Mitchell-Banks’ work with the Clown, a children’s entertainer who has Abel Creek Restoration project recently been very popular at past festivals,” says earned the club the honour of the Roder- Connell. “There are also many communiick-Haig Brown Conservation Award last ty groups helping out like the library, Comonth. Mitchell-Banks will be leading a lumbia Valley Pride, The Makerspace, The tour on Friday, May 13, called Connect- Youth Hub and many more! We want kids ing Lakes to Mountain Streams. to have a great experience. There will be “It feels very rewarding to be able to things to learn, things to see, and things to meet people face-to-face again in the out- do. It’s going to be a great day!” doors,’’ says Mitchell-Banks. “I will be For those a little older this year’s festalking about Kokanee salmon, their life tival will ultimately showcase the research cycle, and their habitat. I hope people will and conservation projects that are hapwalk away with a better understanding pening in the area and how the public can of them, their habitat and community at get involved though citizen science and large.” other programs being offered.

This year’s festival will also host re“The goal every year is to excite peonowned band, The Wardens, who are set ple, and get them interested and knowlto play the Columbia Valley Centre on edgeable about this place, because if Friday evening. “This will be the third people don’t understand and appreciate time they’ve come to Wings for a perfor- where they live and visit, then they won’t mance,” says MacDonald. “They will be protect it,” says MacDonald. “No nature, singing, sharing stories, and photographs no festival, we are fortunate to be so close of what it’s like to protect to the Columbia the beautiful wilderness River as it is the that surrounds us in the basis of the bioRocky Mountains.” diversity here.

Any surplus of the I hope people organisation’s needs is take away how always contributed back fortunate we are into supporting environto have this wonmental education and derful environconservation projects. “It ment here and is the revenue from our recognize that it online auction, which doesn’t maintain runs from May 6 to 15, itself without a that generates the funds lot of work.” for special projects,” says To find out MacDonald. “Last year more about this we supported Columbia year’s events Basin Environmental Ed- Painted turtles, ducks, and other beau- and register ucation Network to buy a tiful birds are just few members of the for tickets visit class set of binoculars to local wildlife here one may see when par- w i n g s o v e r t h support students to go out ticipating in the Wings Over the Rockies erockies.org. into the environment.”

25th Nature Festival. Photo Submitted ...Continued “Festival” from page 12

...Continnued page 3

“Paragolfer”

from

“People with Multiple Sclerosis may find the paragolfer useful,” added Bolt.

“If you think this might be useful for you, don’t be scared to come and try something new,” she said. “It’s amazing how much recreation you actually can do, with a machine like this.”

McClain added that he can even bring the paragolfer to courses in Cranbrook and Golden.

“If somebody wants to use it, we want it to be known that it’s here to use,” said McClain.

He explained that although they haven’t figured out the exact rental rate yet, “it’s going to be pretty inexpensive

to use. We want to keep the cost down as much as we can, so that as many people can use it as possible.” McClain explained that the paragolfer has adaptations that allow it to be used by large adults and small kids alike.

The paragolfer comes with a price tag of $42,000, and the majority of the funding courtesy of the Windermere Oilmen group, with a bit extra raised during RAD’s third Ugly Pant Classic charity golf tournament. Bolt extended a thanks to the Oilmen and to those who participated in the charity tournament.

To learn more about the paragolfer, call McClain at 250 341 3392 ex.

1 or email Copper Point Golf general manager Brian Schaal at bschaal@copperpointgolf.com.

The Revelstoke Dam Visitor Centre is opening soon Join us starting Saturday, May 21 when the Revelstoke Dam Visitor Centre opens for the season. We’re open seven days a week, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Come enjoy our interactive exhibits, watch our short films, learn about the Indigenous communities in the area and take in an amazing view 175 meters above the Columbia River.

Take a guided tour or explore the centre at your own pace to learn about how B.C. is powered by water!

Visit bchydro.com/revelstoke for more information, including details on our COVID-19 safety protocols.

5964

love a good photo submission.

SHUTTER BUGS WeIf you have a snapshot to share, email info@columbiavalleypioneer.com WELCOME

14 • The Columbia Valley Pioneer

May 12, 2022

Virtual Bringing Home the Salmon Festival huge success

By Chadd Cawson Local Journalism Initiative Reporter A love and respect for local salmon species united over 1000 people last week, during the second annual virtual Bringing the Salmon Home Festival on May 3 and 4. This year’s free online festival featured 50 guest presenters, who spoke of the importance of reintroducing salmon back to the upper Columbia River. Audience members tuned in from across western Canada all the way to the United States.

Representatives of the Syilx Okanagan, Ktunaxa and Secwépemc Nations and select U.S. tribes were present, passionately speaking from the heart to all those listening. “It is encouraging to see the level of commitment that has been expressed by the representatives from our respective communities, nations and the non-Indigenous governments. Our success will take years, if not decades, but our collective hard work will make it so,” says Kathryn Teneese, Ktunaxa Nation Council Chair. “We all can play a part in bringing the salmon home, as we work to-

OIP COMPOST CONSTRUCTION TENDER

gether to share what we know and what we have learned is, and will continue to be, vital.”

This year’s festival kicked off at 11 a.m. last Tuesday, May 3, with the opening ceremony hosted by Mark Thomas, Executive Working Group Chair for the Bringing the Salmon Home Initiative. “Through this festival, we offer a vision, an invitation and a shared affirmation to work together to bring the salmon home to the upper Columbia River in Canada,” says Thomas. The program coordination of this year’s event was a team effort led by Valerie Michel, Troy Hunter, Carrie Terbasket and Pauline Terbasket. It was hosted through the Indigenous-led collaboration of the five government partners involved with The Columbia River Salmon Reintroduction Initiative: Bringing the Salmon Home. Stories and wisdom were shared from Elders, Knowledge Keepers, and experts in the field over the course of two days.

Everything went off without a hitch and the audience in attendance were smitten and unanimously positive, evident in the chat box comment section during sessions. One of many read, “I truly appreciate the invi-

tation to participate, to learn, and to feel hope through these thoughtful and responsible initiatives. I also truly appreciate the way presenters shared life stories.”

It was many of these stories that were passed down generationally since salmon have not been seen in the upper Columbia River for over eighty years, and the need for them back is vital. “Many people from both sides of the border have been putting in countless hours of time and energy to help bring the salmon back up here, to reclaim the spawning grounds. This would then allow them to have a full life cycle. I pray that one day salmon will be able to make it up here by swimming, instead of arriving in small packages from grocery stores,” says Secwépemc (Shuswap) Nation Elder, Louie Stevens.

On Wednesday night, youth brought their heartfelt perspective, leaders shared their reflections, and a prayer was led as the festival came to a close. Plans for next year’s event are already in the works, and there is hope that gatherings will be able to take place in the near future.

Continued on page 20...

The Regional District of the East Kootenay requests Tenders from qualified contractors to construct three aerated compost facilities to be constructed at the Sparwood Transfer Station, the Central Subregion Landfill, and at the Invermere Wastewater Plant.

All addenda, amendments or further information will be published on the BC Bid website at www.bcbid.gov.bc.ca.

CLOSING ON May 30, 2022 at 2pm Kevin Paterson, Environmental Services Manager | 250-489-2791 or kpaterson@rdek.bc.ca

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

A special thanks to Terry Balan – RDEK Protective Services for his continued financial support and Thomas Dobbin – RDEK FireSmart – Local FireSmart Representative.

The Fairmont Community Association initiated the Fairmont FireSmart Program in 2018 and we received financial assistance from the Fairmont Lions Club. The residents of Fairmont should be very proud of themselves for receiving FireSmart recognition for 2019, 2020 & 2021. We hope that you will all participate again in this year’s FIRESMART WEEK – MAY 19TH TO MAY 25TH, 2022 – “FILL THE BINS PROGRAM”.

Bins will be placed at: 1) Columbia River Road/Fox Place (North of the Firehall) 2) James Road/Downey Ave (across from Wilder Park in the Meadows) 3) Near the Lions Den on Hot Springs Road At the FireSmart ™ (FS) meeting on Monday, May 9th at Wilder Park in Fairmont Hot Springs – 4 Fairmont Neighbourhoods received FireSmart recognition for their fire mitigation work in 2021.

Present (from left to right) – representing each Neighbourhood - Wally Black (Local FireSmart Representative), Rosemary Stuart (Riverview), Thomas Dobbin (RDEK–FireSmart Representative), Adam Buch (The Strata), and Gary Silvester (The Meadows). Not in the picture is Gail Gregory (Mountainside South) and Agnes Livingston (Mountainside North).

These bins are to be filled with fire mitigation fuels (such as juniper, cedar and other dry shrubs and branches) taken from around your residence - please note – no mixed waste, household waste or branches exceeding 6 inches in diameter.

THIS IS AN OPPORTUNITY FOR FAIRMONT RESIDENTS TO CLEAR THEIR YARDS OF VARIOUS HAZARDOUS FIRE MATERIALS – “LETS FILL THE BINS“.

For further information please call Wally Black 250-345-4595

FireSmart, Intelli-feu and other associated Marks are trademarks of the Canadian Interagency Forest Fire Centre

May 12, 2022

The Columbia Valley Pioneer • 15

HERE TO SERVE YOU CONCRETE

I N

P U R S U I T

CONCRETE

Columbia Concrete Inc.

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

20 years’ experience • Anything concrete!

• • • •

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

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

Basements Garage pads Driveways Patios

• • • •

Decorative Exposed Stamped concrete Acid staining

250-688-3739

Serving the Columbia Valley

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

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

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

CARPET CLEANING

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

TILE AND GROUT CLEANING Business: 250-342-9692

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

Cell: 250-342-1273

ptarmiganrugclean@gmail.com

Enjoy life, we’ll clean it up!

INSURANCE

CONTRACTING

Richard Vernon – Master Plumber & Gasfitter 250-688-4868

BROAD

P LUM B I N G &CON T R A C T I N G

LTD

Visit www.heavensbest.com for more information

250-688-0213

CONTRACTING

ST

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

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

rvbroadstreet@gmail.com broadstreetplumbing.com

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

Kekuli Bay Cabinetry

Specializing in all heating, electric, gas and wood.

kekulibaycabinetry.com

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

A licensed, registered and bonded company

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

N E W S PA P E R

We also offer roundthe-clock service calls.

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

Patryk Jagiello

www.kootenayinsurance.ca

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

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

• 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

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

16 • The Columbia Valley Pioneer

May 12, 2022

HERE TO SERVE YOU

INSURANCE

LANDSCAPING INSURANCE AGENCIES LTD.

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

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

THE COLUMBIA VALLEY’S CHOICE FOR

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

WINDERMERE, BC 250-341-7029 GET YOUR QUOTE AT WWW.GREENLEAFTREE.CA INFO@GREENLEAFTREE.CA

Please recycle this newspaper

NEW SEWER CAMERA

• • •

SERVICES

• Septic Tank Pumping • Portable Toilet Rentals

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

•

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

SERVICES

INTERIOR • EXTERIOR • WALL COVERINGS

Gary’s

Seniors Discounts

Professional Painting & Decorating Ltd. 1978 FREE Estimates

250-347-9803

Local Resident

CUSTOM WOOD FINISHING FAUX FINISHES JOURNEYMAN RED SEAL

403-650-4622 • garysptg@gmail.com

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

4950 Hot Springs Rd. Fairmont Hot Springs, B.C. V0B 1L1

• • • •

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

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

Kootenay

Scott Postlethwaite

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

Ph: 250-688-ROLL

Free Estimates

(7655) LetUsRoll4U@Gmail.com

20 years experience • Satisfaction guaranteed!

invermereelectric@gmail.com

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

Beat the fall rush ~ clean your Chimney this spring!

4879 Hwy 9395 Fairmont Hot Springs BC, V0B 1L1

Service Technician mailoheating@shaw.ca

Mailo Heating and Cooling

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

250-270-0324

Trenton Mailo

Fully Insured & WCB Covered

CLEANING & MAINTENANCE ON ALL WOOD BURNING APPLIANCES • WETT INSPECTIONS

Toll Free 1-88

Kootenay Paving Toll Free 1-888-341-2221

Call now for a free quote!

Locally operated, with full-time staff to serve you better.

1756 Hwy 93/95, Windermere, B.C. V0B 2L2 Phone: 250-342-6500 • Fax: 250-342-3484

Sales ~ Service ~ Installation

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.

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

• Patches • Driveways • Parking Lots • Roads • And more!

HOW WE ROLL Gerard Rehman

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

SERVICES

(Servicing the Valley since 1999)

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

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

SERVICE EXCELLENCE IN THE COLUMBIA VALLEY

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

We give all students 15% off with valid student ID

North American Warranty All Makes and Models Tire Sales and Installation

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

UNIVERSAL DOORS & EXTERIORS Arnold Scheffer 250-342-6700

unidoorext@live.ca • unidoorext.ca

Industrial ~ Commercial ~ Residential

Woodworking Projects Expert Wood Turner/Cabinet Maker Makes everything from magic wands and spinning tops to large salad bowls, artistic wall hangings and small cabinet projects.

Instruction and classes available.

Call Don 403-875-3587 or email djames54@shaw.ca for more information and estimates.

May 12, 2022

The Columbia Valley Pioneer • 17

P IONEER C LASSIFIEDS ANNOUNCEMENT

ANNOUNCEMENT

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

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

The Columbia Valley Classic Car Club will be holding their AGM at Radium Brewing on Thursday May 12, 2022 at 7:00 p.m. There will be an election of officers. All current, past and new members are welcome. For more info, call Vicki at 250-342-1257

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

CHEERS WITHOUT TEARS Cheers to Terry from Radium who found my wallet on Stanley Street March 11. He went to great lengths to contact me and took it to the RCMP for me to pick up!

Cheers to Leslie at Rona for her wonderful help. What great service. I will be back!

S OBITUARY S Gulbe, Donald Charles May 2, 1939 — April 24, 2022

Donald Charles Gulbe passed away while surrounded by his loving family on April 24, 2022, in Kelowna, BC, at the age of 82 years.

Donald was born and grew up in Olds, Alberta, where he and his wife Norma first met. The two worked together farming around Olds and Drumheller, AB while starting a family with their four children being born in Olds. The two later decided to make a move to the Okanagan and raise their children in West Kelowna, BC for a time, where Donald worked as a contract painter over a number of years. Another move took the family to Invermere, BC, where they continued raising their family while owning/operating a Motel business until semi-retirement.

Their original love for the Okanagan attracted them to settle back in Kelowna in 1999. Once again, Donald decided to take on some various residential painting projects until fully retiring in 2012.

Donald will be remembered for his witty humour, hardworking nature, spark for conversation with others, and his story telling ability like no other. Donald enjoyed hobbies like fishing and spending time with family – especially his grandchildren later in life. His welcoming heart and loving kindness will be sadly missed by all. Donald will be forever present in our hearts and greatly missed by all those who knew him.

Left to treasure his memory are his wife of 53 years, Norma; his children David (Elke), Lorrie (Cory), Darren, and Kendra (Troy); his grandchildren Tyler, Brooklyn, Blake, Jackson, Brent, Rachael, Desjaray, and Joslynn; two great-grandchildren; his brother Bob (Mary); and many extended family members.

The family would like to extend a heartfelt thanks to all the hardworking staff at Kelowna General Hospital who were involved with the amazing care he received in his last days.

By request, there will be no service.

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

CHEERS WITHOUT TEARS

CHEERS WITHOUT TEARS

CHEERS WITHOUT TEARS

CHEERS WITHOUT TEARS

Cheers to Emily for treating us to lunch at Oriental Place. What a generous and kind gesture. You are awesome!

Cheers to Sheila Kraig for the beautiful card. How kind and caring!

Cheers to our good friends, Alice and Ullu for making us homemade chicken soup when we were down with the flu and to our good friends and family that sent texts checking in on us.

It was very much appreciated.

LISTINGS NEEDED!

Cheers to Stephanie Stevens for delivering a wonderful planter of vegetable greens to our home.

I will enjoy using them daily in my homemade soups and salads. You definitely brightened up my day.

For every Rotary Citizen of the Year there are many kind and generous volunteers ever willing to assist. Cheers to all of you.

Cheers to all the wonderful ladies who work at the Radium Post Office: Sophie, Monique, Lana. You are kind, caring and so helpful.

Cheers to my Auntie Yvonne for your kindness and generosity.

You made my day!

Cheers to Rebecca Nielsen for being an incredible friend. Love you, my dude.

Cheers to Dr. Mclellan at Chisel Peak Medical Clinic for being so incredibly kind, supportive, and going above and beyond.

You have made a very difficult experience bearable.

Cheers to Kathy S for being such a great friend and bringing me food, snacks and pop while I have been sick.

Cheers to Jennifer of Family Dynamix for all the support you gave us during this difficult time. You loaned us a wheelchair which proved invaluable and provided ongoing help and moral support.

Cheers to John and Heather Bosch for going above and beyond with helping me move to the Okanagan. With friends like this you can’t go wrong. May you be showered with blessings and good health. See you soon.

S OBITUARY S In loving memory of Verlie Patricia “Pat” Lynch (Brayton) It is with great sadness that we announce the peaceful passing of Verlie Patricia “Pat” Lynch on April 3, 2022 in Edgewater, BC. Verlie Patricia “Pat” Lynch (Brayton) was born on April 15th, 1929 to parents Charles and Edythe Brayton of Selkirk Manitoba. Pat joined the Royal Canadian Air Force at the age of 21, where she met and married Stan Bryce while both stationed in Saskatoon, Saskatchewan.

They relocated to Edgewater, British Columbia on New Years Eve, 1953 and enjoyed raising their family of six girls while also farming and operating their business and rental properties.

Pat was very active in the community and taught sewing and swimming lessons and was involved in numerous businesses. On Stan’s passing she continued to farm and manage their properties while also managing a restaurant, providing employment to many of the valley’s youth. Pat also enjoyed travelling, golf and swimming, finding a kindred spirit in Al Lynch whom she later married in May 1991 before moving to Invermere, British Columbia and spending the colder months in Mesa, Arizona for 12 years. When “snowbirding” came to a close Pat continued golfing, swimming, hiking, walking and playing bridge three to four times a week.

Curling was also a favorite hobby of hers. She also enjoyed crafting - from candles, lawn furniture and ceramics, to crocheting afghans

and Quillows and necklaces to be found at the Farmers Market.

Pat is survived by her sister Judy Brooks of Selkirk, Manitoba, her daughters; Robin (Allan) Jones of Edgewater, British Columbia; Bonnie (Torstein) Landsgard of Pouce Coupe, British Columbia; Verlie (Jim) Klap of Drayton Valley, Alberta; Barbara (Steve) Bryce of Invermere British Columbia; Bernadette (Kevin) Mohan of Kelowna, British Columbia; Evelyn (Charles) Earl of Calgary, Alberta; Al’s Children, Raymond (Jackie) Lynch of Noelville, Ontario; Vera (Daniel) St Jean of Belle River, Ontario. As well as her 26 grandchildren, 42 great grandchildren and numerous nieces and nephews. Verlie was predeceased by her parents; Charles Herbert Brayton and Edythe Marie-Elena (Verlie) Brayton as well as husbands Stanley Calvin Bryce (1978) and Allan Thomas Lynch (2020).

There will be a service held in her memory on Saturday June 11, 2022 at 2pm at the Edgewater Community Hall. In lieu of flowers a donation to a charity of your choice may be made in memoriam of Patricia.

Arrangements entrusted to McPherson Funeral Services. Condolences for the family can be offered at: www.mcphersonfh.com

I WANT TO SELL YOUR HOUSE!

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

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

BUYING OR SELLING CALL 250-341-1202

gerrytaft.ca Personal Real Estate Corporation

Rockies West Realty Independently owned and operated

LOT/ACREAGE WANTED 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

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

Please recycle this newspaper

18 • The Columbia Valley Pioneer

MISC. FOR SALE COW MANURE WELL AGED $100 per pick up load Phone Elkhorn Ranch 250-342-1268

BOATS FOR SALE 2006 Glastron GS185 Red Mercruiser 4.5L Bimini, EZloader, spare tire, stereo. Winter tarp.

Located in Windermere. $21,500 Contact The Turners 250-3429851.

SERVICES 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 nonmedical care, transportation to Cranbrook, overnight care, meal prep, grocery shopping and more. Excellent local references.

250-341-5683 Heartfeltcompanionservices. com AARON’S HOME SERVICES -Lawn Care -Yard Cleans -Power Washing 250-342-9222 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.

May 12, 2022

LESSONS/TRAINING

HELP WANTED

HELP WANTED

Rocky Mountain Swimming Lessons welcomes all swimmers back to the Fairmont Hot Springs Pools. Register at info@ rockymountainswimlessons.ca by submitting your child’s name, age, swimming level most recently passed and the week you would like lessons.

General carpentry on cottage: Deck repairs, room addition, drywalling, block fireplace removal. Indian Beach. Call 1-403-813-8385 Email: greigr@ telus.net

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.

HELP WANTED Wanted 2 F/T Restaurant Cooks, Rocky River Grill, 8888 Arrow Road, Invermere, B.C. Permanent, F/T shifts, overtime, weekends, days and evenings, $16/hour for 40 hours per week. Overtime after 40 hours. Minimum several years’ experience and completion of secondary school. DUTIES: Prepare and cook full course meals, prepare and cook individual dishes and foods, ensure quality of food portions, work with minimal supervision, prepare dishes for customers with food allergies or intolerances. Inspect kitchens and food service areas. Please forward resume to Justin Atterbury by fax 250-3428889 or email: justatterbury@ hotmail.com 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

NOTICES

NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND OTHERS RE: The estate of Barry Simes, deceased, formerly of Windermere, BC, died on November 13, 2021.

Notice is hereby given to Creditors and others having claims against the estate of Barry Simes under section 38 of the Trustee Act of British Columbia; that particulars of their case be sent to Administrator, M. Lynn Sinclair, 31-4775, Woodlane W, Windermere, BC on or before June 23, 2022, after which date the estates’ assets will be distributed among the parties having entitled to it, having regard only to the claims of which the Administrator then has notice.

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.

Crossroads Market is now hiring for all positions with an emphasis on Deli and Bakery Positions. We offer far above industry standard wages. Previous experience is not necessary. Night-shift premium and Summer-time Bonus offered on top of wages.

We are offering both full-time and part-time positions and can schedule shifts around another job as well. Please email resume to kgtltd2020@gmail.com or drop off resume at Crossroads Market.

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

Kootenay Water is looking for an employee! Part-time or full-time, must have a valid class 5 driver’s license, be able to lift 50lbs and have a good work ethic! Please email us at kootenaywater@gmail.com.

Don’t Miss an Issue!

We are in search of a

Ticketed Heavy Duty Mechanic to join our team.

You will be responsible for troubleshooting, repairs, and maintenance on a variety of heavy equipment, trucks and trailers. If this sounds like you please contact us at: csmcleancontracting@gmail.com

Print and Digital Reporter/Photographer The Columbia Valley Pioneer is looking for a full-time Print and Digital Reporter/Photographer for our news operation based in Invermere. We operate a daily news site and a weekly print publication.

The successful candidate works well in a team setting, but is self motivated. You will be responsible to write multiple news stories every week for print and on-line publication, take photographs to accompany stories, attend community events and lay out pages (all while respecting Social Distancing requirements).

Qualifications • Journalism education: degree, diploma or certificate; or equivalent work experience.

• Valid driver’s license and reliable vehicle.

• Positive attitude, must be organized and able to work both independently and in a team setting.

• Experience in InDesign, Photoshop, and posting to social media.

The company offers competitive benefit and pension plans.

Interested candidates should forward their resume to Amanda Nason, Associate Publisher/Sales Manager: advertising@columbiavalleypioneer.com

N E W S PA P E R

N E W S PA P E R

Read us online:

www.columbiavalleypioneer.com

Applications must be received by May 2 at 5 p.m.

Pacific time. The position is based in our office at 8 – 1008, 8th Ave Invermere, B.C.

DISTRICT OF INVERMERE

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

Casual Employees NOW HIRING! Client Experience Team Permanent Part-Time position available immediately on our amazing Client Experience Team for someone who loves to smile, chat, get creative, be efficient and multitask in a fun, professional and productive environment!

If you think you are an energetic, detail orientated, with a genuine passion for helping people and putting smiles on faces, then this is the perfect position for you.

The position does require some general office administration responsibilities so experience in a clinic setting is an asset, but certainly not a necessity. We strongly feel that all administrative skills can be taught and acquired, so the most important qualification for this position is an eagerness to make a positive impact on our clients’ day through a great personality.

We take pride in our excellent customer service, strong teamwork, hearing expertise, and boy do we have a great coffee machine!

Interested? Please email resumes to krista@hearingloss.ca

We can’t wait to have you on board!

The District of Invermere is seeking applications for our Casual on call Employee list for the 2022 summer season in the Public Works Department.

To be eligible you must possess a valid class 5 driver’s license.

Special consideration will be given to people with previous construction or municipal works experience including Environmental Operators Certification. An air brakes endorsement or a valid class 3 driver’s license would be an asset.

Under the supervision of the Public Works Foreman, the casual employee performs a variety of manual labour duties and equipment operations. Work involves the general maintenance of municipal infrastructures including roads and streets, storm drainage, water and sewer systems, parks, cemetery and buildings. The primary tasks considered for this posting involve buildings, parks, roads and utility maintenance and repair and must be willing to come in contact with live sewer.

Applicants must possess sound communication and interpersonal skills. Knowledge of WCB regulations would be an asset.

This position is within C.U.P.E. 2982 bargaining unit. A full job description is available for this position.

Applicants are invited to submit their resumes to: Kindry Luyendyk, Corporate Officer District of Invermere 914 – 8th Avenue Box 339 Invermere, BC V0A 1K0 Email info@invermere.net

May 12, 2022

Look up to a higher standard with our classified ads.

Pioneer Classifieds

The Columbia Valley Pioneer • 19

Parks Canada is hiring youth aged 15 to 30!

Parcs Canada embauche des jeunes de 15 à 30 ans!

The Youth Employment and Skills Strategy (YESS) is a Federal Government jobs initiative targeted at young Canadians. It supports the creation of job opportunities,with a particular focus on youth facing barriers.

La Stratégie emploi et compétences jeunesse (SECJ) est une initiative fédérale en matière d’emploi qui s’adresse aux jeunes Canadiens et Canadiennes. Elle mise sur la création d’emplois, surtout pour les jeunes qui doivent faire face à des obstacles.

Les postes sont variés : agent/agente d’élaboration de produits liés à l’expérience du visiteur, membre de l’équipe d’entretien des sentiers, adjoint/adjointe aux métiers, adjoint administratif/ adjointe administrative, technicien/technicienne en surveillance de l’intégrité écologique, technicien/technicienne de la faune, technicien/technicienne des milieux aquatiques, technicien/ technicienne en gestion de la végétation, technicien/technicienne des espèces aquatiques envahissantes, interprète et plus encore!

Work in jobs such as: Visitor Experience Product Development Officer, Trail Crew, Trades Assistant, Admin Assistant, Ecological Integrity Monitoring Tech, Wildlife Tech, Aquatics Tech, Vegetation Management Tech, Aquatic Invasive Species Tech, Interpreter, and more!

The starting rate for University students is $19.38/hr, and the rate for high school students is $16.00/hr.

Le taux de départ pour les étudiants et étudiantes universitaires est de 19,38 $ l’heure, et celui des élèves du secondaire, de 16 $ l’heure.

Who can apply? To be eligible, you must be: • • •

•

N E W S PA P E R

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

Between 15 and 30 years old.

Canadian citizen, permanent resident or legally entitled to work in Canada.

In addition, preference may be given to candidates who self-identify as Indigenous, visible minorities or persons with disabilities, as well as youth facing barriers to employment. We encourage you to self-identify in your application.

All Parks Canada Agency employees are required to be fully vaccinated against COVID-19 and attest to their vaccination status unless accommodated based on a medical contraindication, religion, or another prohibited ground of discrimination as defined under the Canadian Human Rights Act.

Anyone who is interested in being considered, and meets the eligibility criteria above, is encouraged to submit their resume and a cover letter to: rhllyk-llykhr@pc.gc.ca Subject line should include: YESS, last name, and where you saw this poster.

Qui peut postuler? Pour être admissible, vous devez : • • •

•

avoir entre 15 et 30 ans; détenir la citoyenneté canadienne ou le statut de résident permanent ou avoir le droit de travailler au Canada.

Il se peut que la préférence soit accordée aux jeunes aux prises avec des obstacles à l’emploi ou qui s’identifient comme Autochtones, membres de minorités visibles ou personnes handicapées. Si vous faites partie de l’un de ces groupes, nous vous encourageons à l’indiquer dans votre demande.

Tous les membres du personnel de l’Agence Parcs Canada doivent être entièrement vaccinés contre la COVID-19 et attester leur statut vaccinal, à moins que des mesures d’adaptation n’aient été prises en raison d’une contreindication médicale, d’un motif religieux ou de tout autre motif de discrimination interdit par la Loi canadienne sur les droits de la personne.

Where to recycle?

Les personnes qui répondent aux critères d’admissibilité énoncés ci-dessus et qui souhaitent postuler sont invitées à soumettre leur curriculum vitæ et une lettre de présentation à l’adresse suivante : rhllyk-llykhr@pc.gc.ca

Check the BC RECYCLEpEdia www.rcbc.ca

À la rubrique « Objet », veuillez inscrire : SECJ, votre nom de famille, ainsi que l’endroit où vous avez vu cette affiche.

Recycling council of B.c. MeMBeR

Zipline Guide This is the perfect job summer for students and seasonal workers! Spend your days outside, working with a fun crew and meeting new people. Staff events, industry perks, and comprehensive on-going training provided.

Duties: • Daily pre-operation inspection of the facility and life safety equipment • Completing inspection log sheets in a clean and organized manner • Set-up and take down of the Zip Line Tour and Climbing Wall • Facilitating 3 Tours a day • Guest training and orientation to the experience including the teaching and supervision of the Guest Training Course • Assisting Guests throughout the tour and providing moral and physical support as needed • Retrieving guests and conducting evacuation procedures as needed • Site cleaning and maintenance as needed • Weekly safety training Skills and Qualifications: Although an asset, previous experience is not required. On-site training provided. Applicants must be aged 16+ by their start date.

Visit https://valleyzip.com/careers/ for more information!

Where to recycle?

Check the BC RECYCLEpEdia 604-RECYCLE (732-9253) 1-800-667-4321 Recycling council of B.c. MeMBeR

Columbia Valley Pioneer

Associate Publisher

The Pioneer has an opening for an Associate Publisher. This is a training position for an individual who is willing to learn all aspects of our business with the goal of becoming Publisher and assuming responsibility for our daily news website, our weekly newspaper, several ancillary publications and related websites.

The successful candidate will be a high energy individual with a strong work ethic and a desire for personal success. You need to be passionate about supporting local journalism and the communities we serve.

You will need strong business skills and the ability to manage a team of seven staff while also understanding the goals, challenges and opportunities of our many external customers. Aberdeen Publishing Inc. provides administrative support to The Pioneer from our head office in Kamloops.

The position will be of most interest to candidates with a background in Journalism, Sales Management or Marketing Management.

A University Degree or a College Diploma in a related field would be considered an asset.

We offer competitive remuneration, a benefit plan including extended health and dental care, and a company pension plan.

To arrange an interview please contact: Robert W. Doull, Publisher rdoull@aberdeenpublishing.com

N E W S PA P E R

Or mail your resume to our office: Box 868, #8, 1008 – 8th Ave. Invermere, B.C. V0A 1K0

C

Recycling questions?

Recycle? Yes o

Get the BC ReCYClep

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

Administrative Assistant and www.rcbc.ca Emergency Operations Coordinator Recycling council of B.c. MeMBeR

Recycling council of B.c.

The Village of Radium Hot Springs seeks an enthusiastic and team-oriented full-time person to serve as Administrative Assistant (75%) and Emergency Operations Coordinator (25%).

Personality is key! And the successful candidate will: ‘wear multiple hats’; is an excellent communicator; and is comfortable dealing with the public in a role that requires tact and diplomacy. The focus of the position is in office, however the successful candidate will support emergency preparedness, response, and recovery in the Village.

Computer experience (emphasis on Microsoft Office) is required, as is basic financial knowledge, and the ability to work with confidential information while exercising considerable independence within established policies and procedures.

Description for the two positions is available upon request by emailing jill.logan@radiumhotsprings.ca.

Applications must be received at the Village office (paper, email or fax acceptable) no later than 4 p.m. Friday, June 3rd, 2022.

If you thrive in a busy environment while providing exceptional customer service, are skilled at managing multiple priorities, and are willing to learn emergency management systems - this opportunity is for you!

We thank all applicants in advance; however, only those selected for an interview will be contacted.

20 • The Columbia Valley Pioneer

FAITH

May 12, 2022

The giant slayer

LAKE WINDERMERE ALLIANCE CHURCH

By Pastor Josh McCallum Lake Windermere Alliance Church

Now open for in-person services.

Sundays at 10:30 a.m.

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

WINDERMERE VALLEY SHARED MINISTRY ANGLICAN-UNITED Sunday Services, 10:30 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

We all love a good underdog story, and the original underdog story stars the not-yet-king David of Israel squaring off against the giant Goliath with nothing but a sling and some stones.

This story — and the phrase “David and Goliath” — has come to represent the idea of mustering up the strength to overcome any obstacle. But what if that’s not the intent of the story?

This story is set at a valley; the army of the Philistines on one side, the Israelite forces on the other. Neither army dares risk a charge through the valley, for they would be giving the opponent a great advantage. Thus, the Philistines offer a solution: a battle of representatives.

One warrior each and whomever loses would yield, becoming the slaves of the other nation.

The trouble is, the Philistine warrior was Goliath — a battle-hardened giant, capable of wielding weapons most men could barely hold properly. Now, a brave king would fight at the head of his army, especially when the King — ...Continued “Salmon” from page 14 If you were unable to attend last week’s online event, the public can enjoy diverse presentations from knowledge keepers, artists, musicians, biologists, elders, and youth by clicking on the festival

Saul — is said to be a head taller than everyone else in Israel. Yet Saul cowers alongside all Israel.

The armies of the Living God were taunted by the giant day after day, yet no one stepped forward.

Enter David, a young man sent by his father to bring lunch to his brothers. He hears Goliath speaking against Israel and their God, and he won’t stand for it. Troubled at the lack of faith among God’s people, David faces Goliath in battle, drawing courage from the deliverance he’s witnessed in the past.

Without even a sword, he challenges Goliath in the name of the God of Israel, and he defeats him. God’s representative had won! In David’s eyes, God was the victor that day (see Psalm 9). This is not merely a story about overcoming a challenge, but of God using His servant to rescue His people.

Not only that, but this story points toward another who would come from the line of David to face a representative battle on behalf of His people. Jesus, Son of David, stood alone against sin and death, and emerged victorious so that those who recognize Him as their King will be redeemed from spiritual slavery to live in victory. page links at ColumbiaRiverSalmon.ca.

“I look forward to change and seeing a difference as we move forward. We need to care for all tributaries of the Columbia River,” says Chief Crow of the Syilx Okanagan Nation. “I believe in our responsibility to our future.”

ST. PETER’S LUTHERAN CHURCH Sunday 1:30 p.m. Worship Service at Valley Christian Assembly 4814 Highway Drive, Windermere lutheranstpeter@gmail.com

HELP WANTED

HELP WANTED

Receptionist/Office Assistant

Receptionist/Office Assistant

Family Dynamix is looking for an experienced part-time Receptionist/Office Assistant to join our team of vibrant, sincere, and professional individuals.

Family Dynamix is looking for an experienced part-time Receptionist/Office Assistant to join our team of vibrant, sincere, and professional individuals.

Position: Part-time Hours: Up to 12 hours a week Schedule: Family Dynamix Association, Invermere Start date: Immediately

Position: Casual Hours: On call, Monday to Friday Schedule: Family Dynamix Association, Invermere Start date: Immediately

Duties: Provide a variety of reception, general clerical assistance for the Family Dynamix, where community-based programs and services are delivered.

Maintains various records, files, and related filing systems.

Duties: Provide a variety of reception, general clerical assistance for the Family Dynamix, where community-based programs and services are delivered.

Maintains various records, files, and related filing systems.

Qualifications: Grade 12 diploma, plus six months recent experience in general office work. Or an equivalent combination of education, training, and experience. Must be able to work in a team environment. Demonstrable multitasking ability in a busy office environment and working well with the public. Proficiency needed in computer and office skills, Microsoft Word, Excel, and Publisher software. Microsoft Access would be an asset.

Qualifications: Grade 12 diploma, plus six months recent experience in general office work. Or an equivalent combination of education, training, and experience. Must be able to work in a team environment. Demonstrable multitasking ability in a busy office environment and working well with the public. Proficiency needed in computer and office skills, Microsoft Word, Excel, and Publisher software. Microsoft Access would be an asset.

Application process and deadline: Submit a resume and cover letter to Ute Juras, Director of Program Management, Family Dynamix, PO Box 2289, Invermere, B.C., V0A 1K0, or email her at ujuras@fdx.family.

Application process and deadline: Submit a resume and cover letter to Ute Juras, Director of Program Management, Family Dynamix, PO Box 2289, Invermere, B.C., V0A 1K0, or email her at ujuras@fdx.family.

Application closing date: May 20, 2022, at 4 p.m.

Application closing date: May 20, 2022, at 4 p.m.

We thank all applicants for their interest, however only those shortlisted for interview will be contacted.

We thank all applicants for their interest, however only those shortlisted for interview will be contacted.

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

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

Relief Society, 11:15 a.m.

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

The Pioneer can

your message is resonating with residents and visitors alike.

!

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

www.columbiavalleypioneer.com