Columbia Valley Pioneer - March 21, 2024

VALLEY NEWS

Local parents push for ‘safe sport’ policy

By Lyonel Doherty editor@columbiavalleypioneer.com

Two local parents are recommending that Rocky Mountain School District No. 6 implement a new “safe sport” policy for the protection of coaches, volunteers and student athletes.

Christine DuBois and Chenoa Paccagnan presented the proposal at the March 12 board meeting for consideration.

“I coached two different high school sports this fall and I noticed a few things missing in the coaching manual, particularly relating to safe sport,” DuBois told the Pioneer. She noted that Paccagnan also mentioned the lack of a safe sport policy.

“After doing some research we realized that not just our district, but the entire province was missing the safe sport piece of the responsible coaching movement,” DuBois said.

She pointed out the goal is to create a policy to ensure that all coaches have the education and tools to establish a safe, secure and smart sport environment for all students.

“School District No. 6 is going to be a leader in responsible coaching once this is implemented,” she noted.

The PowerPoint presented referred to documented cases of abuse and mistreatment of athletes in Canada. A 2019 study of national team athletes highlighted maltreatment such as neglect, physical, psychological, and sexual harm.

“The position of power that coaches hold does create an opportunity for neglect, maltreatment and abuse to occur in sport,” DuBois told the Pioneer. And only when everyone involved starts the conversation, that’s when we can recognize and prevent the opportunity for abuse to occur, she added.

“If you think that this doesn’t happen, isn’t happening or hasn’t happened in all levels of sport all over the world, then you need to take your head out of the sand,” DuBois said.

“We aren’t talking about coaches yelling and making kids do lines, we are

talking about blatant violations of the safety of our kids. This isn’t about nitpicking coaches or putting them under a microscope, not at all. Coaches are fantastic people and without them our kids wouldn’t have the opportunities to play school sport.”

DuBois said she wouldn’t have won an Olympic medal without the dedication of her “amazing” coaches, which she is so grateful for.

The mother with school age children said coaches don’t only need this training, they want this training. “Coaches want guidelines and to know the boundaries so they don’t find themselves in a stressful situation that could have been prevented.”

DuBois said BC School Sports, which governs sporting activities in schools, does have an athlete and coach code of conduct, but it doesn’t address how to create a safe sporting environment. She acknowledged that School District No. 6 requires all volunteers to have a criminal record check and complete abuse awareness training, but this is different than the safe sport training that she is recommending.

DuBois said the policy will mandate all coaches to have the “Rule of Two” training which basically sees coaches having another coach or screened adult present when interacting with student athletes one-on-one.

“The (school) district does not need to invent anything new here, they just need to implement the policy to ensure our coaches have this training before coaching our students,” DuBois said.

If adopted, the school district will take a proactive stance at preventing abuse in sport and will be at the forefront of this responsible coaching movement, she pointed out.

Steve Wyer, school district acting superintendent, commended the two ladies, saying it takes courage to present in front of a governance body. “It (the presentation) was very clear, well-researched, and well-spoken to.”

Wyer noted it is too early for him to say what the outcome will be with respect to the recommended policy.

Rocky Mountain School District No. 6 is being encouraged to implement a “safe sport” policy in schools.

RCMP REPORT

By Sgt. Ed deJong Columbia Valley RCMP

This past week, March 11 to 18, the Columbia Valley RCMP responded to 59 calls for service. The following is a summary of some of the files our officers responded to:

On March 11 police responded to a report of an impaired driver in the Canal Flats area. Members located the subject and administered a roadside screening test, which resulted in a “fail”. The 66-year-old

male driver was issued a 90-day immediate roadside driving prohibition and his vehicle was impounded for 30 days.

On March 17 the RCMP were dispatched to a break and enter at the Fairmont Pizza and Ice Cream Parlour in Fairmont Hot Springs. The suspect entered the business and removed an amount of cash and other property. Police are following up on forensic evidence found at the scene.

If you have any information regarding this crime, please contact Cst. Kings at 250-342-9292.

Student gardeners convince council to grow vegetables

By Steve Hubrecht  steve@columbiavalleypioneer.com

A group of green-thumbed grade schoolers have convinced the District of Invermere to grow vegetables in some of its flower beds.

The students are the J. Alfred Laird Gardening Ambassadors from J.A. Laird Elementary School, and they made the case for switching a few of the municipal flower gardens to vegetable gardens during last week’s (March 12) council meeting. There were nine or 10 Gardening Ambassadors in total, but they brought with them a crowd of parents, siblings, friends and the school principal — enough supporters to literally pack the gallery at council chambers to standing room only. (Sure, council chambers are not exactly spacious, but just the same, issues attracting an audience that large are few and far between.)

The Laird Gardening Ambassadors comprises students from a number of different classes and grades. For the past three years they have been growing vegetables in the community gardens at Mount Nelson Athletic Park (MNAP), donating 1,000 pounds of veggies to the Columbia Valley Food Bank and using the rest to help feed students at their own school. They learn not only gardening but also about food sustainability, and they came to the March 12 council meeting with a plan.

“We are here today to ask the Invermere town council to begin thinking differently about how we use the many (municipal) flower beds and planter pots located around town,” Ambassador Sofia told council.

Fellow Ambassador Amelia explained that the flower beds are beautiful, but could be used for better purposes, namely growing vegetables for local residents who cannot afford fresh, healthy food. She noted the amount of municipal water used to grow vegetables would be no different than the amount of water currently used to grow flowers.

“There is a need for fresh food in our valley,” said Ambassador Ellie. She reeled off a list of statistics: at least 17 per cent of local families cannot afford the groceries they need; the Food Bank distributed 1,422 hampers of food to local families in 2022; and 258 Invermere residents do not have enough access to nutritional food. Ellie noted that this food security situation is compounded by a water shortage, with current snowpack only at 40 per cent of its typical average, so “we need to start using water more wisely.”

Converting flower beds to vegetable gardens, or combining flowers and vegetables in the same beds (also known as companion planting) would mean “our water resources are being used more purposefully” added Ambassador Mali.

Ambassadors Sarah and Ayla listed several examples of other municipalities that grow vegetables in municipal gardens and flower beds. These include Southbank, Australia, and — here in B.C. — East Vancouver, West Vancouver, and Victoria.

The Gardening Ambassadors offered to pitch in to help council and district staff turn these ideas into reality.

“We can get seeds from the seed library. We can help plant, weed and harvest vegetables for the community beds,” outlined Ambassador Kinley. “We can research vegetables and edible flowers that are less likely to attract animals. For example, deer are less likely to eat root vegetables like carrots and beets, but their greenery is an attractive addition to a garden bed. We can create signage.”

Ambassador Mia added that “we are willing to work with you” and she suggested that “perhaps we could start with one garden space as a test project.”

“You’ve made some very good points,” Invermere deputy mayor Kayja Becker told the students.

Invermere chief administrative officer Andrew Young explained that he and Invermere Mayor Al Miller had previously talked about installing garden beds near the district office, as a benefit both for food security and for district staff who might find tending the garden “a nice, soothing break.” The students’ proposal is even better, added Young.

Several Invermere councillors began discussing which particular flower bed or two might be best to start with as a test project. One of the Gardening Ambassadors piped up, suggesting that the ones under the flag poles near the Windermere Valley Museum would be great. Miller agreed this is an excellent spot, noting the nearby Summit Youth Centre plans to create its own raised bed gardens, and that there could be some coordination between the two projects.

“I think we’re all on the same page,” said Becker. She pointed out that local government often moves very slowly on initiatives, but said “let’s get this rolling as fast as we can. Maybe even this spring.”

Council unanimously voted to give direction to district staff to meet with the Gardening Ambassadors in the near future to sort out details.

Gardening Ambassadors from JA Laird Elementary School impressed Invermere council with their presentation last week asking the district to convert its flower gardens into vegetable gardens.

PHOTO MILAN KRASULA/GETTY

The fraud files

While scam artists are getting smarter in their deceptions, people are growing wiser in this cat and mouse game. But sadly new victims keep piling up.

Regardless of the increased awareness and head-shaking stories around the dinner table, many people continue to fall prey to fraudsters who don’t have a conscience. These individuals, who are still arguably human . . . to a degree, probably sleep well at night after parting a senior from his or her pension, using the grandson-in-trouble ruse or countless other tricks.

Now that it’s tax time, you can expect the ubiquitous Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) scams to rear their ugly heads.

It was brought to the Pioneer’s attention that one taxpayer received a beguiling text message from the CRA that read: Canada Revenue Agency sent you $1,000 (CAD) - deposit with your link (via Interac e-transfer). Wow! $1,000 . . . great! But the CRA never sends or requests e-transfers of any kind; it only sends payments by direct deposit or cheque in the mail. Other CRA scams include notifications that you are eligible to receive a tax refund of $788. “Due to the high volume of tax refund payments, you must complete the online application, the telephone help line is very busy at the moment . . .” The examples go on and on like grandpa’s post-war tales.

To verify anything with CRA and to learn about the latest scams, visit canada.ca.

Back to this taxpayer who received the text message: less than 20 minutes later she was contacted by BC Hydro to update her information. “It sounded so real right to the end of the conversation,” she said.

“Not only did I then have to call and cancel my credit card but they would have drained my account if I had not realized something was wrong.”

The red flag occurred when the fellow said she would receive a $50 rebate for choosing BC Hydro.

March is Fraud Prevention Month. Think you’re smart when it comes to fraud? Take the Government of Canada’s quiz at https://ised-isde.canada.ca/site/ competition-bureau-canada/en/fraud-and-scams/ test-your-knowledge-fraud

Don’t fall for extortion scams where a so-called government agency says that a recent audit shows that you owe them money.

Be wary of romance scams, too; suddenly being asked for money should be a red flag. And door-todoor scams? Don’t sign anything or allow anyone to inspect your HVAC system.

The Better Business Bureau also warns people to be cautious when it comes to online purchase scams, which have duped many individuals. The police always warn that if it’s too good to be true, it probably is. This is the new motto to live by, unfortunately.

Lyonel Doherty, editor

Dismayed by bat decision

I read the article about Fairmont Hot Springs Resort's refusal to allow a bat condo to be placed on their land near the old barn in Fairmont.

I am totally dismayed that the resort has taken this position. They have nothing to lose if they allow alternative housing for the bats on their land.

I guess that this is what happens when a large and remote corporation takes over a local business; they

only care about the environment, human or natural, when it has what they perceive to be an effect on profit. They risk losing public credibility by taking this destructive position against a protected species, which in turn may affect their bottom line. It is a foolish decision of leaders isolated from the reality of the local environment.

PHOTO LILLITVE/GETTY IMAGES

Stephen Dykes, Fairmont

Some residents like Stephen Dykes support saving bat habitat in Fairmont where a bat barn is slated for demolition.

A mental health poem to offer hope for all

The following poem offers a hope-filled perspective on mental health as we prepare to recognize Mental Health Awareness Month in May. The poem has been accepted into the Spotlight on Mental Health Art Showcase in Waterloo, ON.

Pilot Light

inside the cage of my ribs is a tiny flicker of something small that intends to be bigger a soft yellow glow

dims, but does not snuff out roars and stumbles feeds and is fed trapped in its cage, the only home it knows happy to be held

by the bones

I think it to death

I sense it to murmur a subtle pop of smoke a wafting of fear then my eyes watch a snowflake fall

glitter at the concert millions of mirrors

my favourite song blares the snow flurries, buries melts, revealing something else every single living thing ends my song fading out the snowflake watches me, now reignite the same, but different, tiny flicker of light

Emma Flemington, Fairmont Hot Springs

Connect your neighbours with small grant

Submitted by CV Community Foundation

Small amounts of money have the potential to bring powerful changes into local communities.

Last year, the Neighbourhood Small Grants program delivered a wide variety of projects in communities across BC; ideas such as educational movie nights, interactive seminars, free mini libraries, and care packages for vulnerable people were brought to life.

This year, the Columbia Valley Community Foundation is leading the Neighbourhood Small Grants (NSG) program for the Columbia Valley. This program offers microgrants up to $500 to individuals for projects that connect people socially or involve sharing skills or talents.

Thiloma Hofer, executive director at the Columbia Valley Community Foundation says, “We’re hoping this program will bring neighbours together through their common desire to make their community a better place. We previously saw great engagement with our Kindness Microgrants program and hope to see the Columbia Valley embrace this program as well.”

There is no single right way to build community connection, and this unique program takes grassroots granting approach to get neighbours connecting, creating, and making lasting memories. This year the Columbia Valley Community Foundation has $6,000 to give away.

This fund is intended to help communities bring ideas to life that might otherwise encounter a financial barrier. While the focus on the Neighbourhood Small Grants is to help bring a stronger sense of belonging in a community, the lasting memories in the connections that each project creates, and the big impact that a small gesture can make in one's life. Everyone is encouraged to apply.

The Community Foundation is hosting a Zoom information session about this program on March 27 at 6.30 pm (MST). If you want to join email grants@ valleyfoundation.ca

Applications will be accepted until April 25.

For more information on the Neighbourhood Small Grants program and to apply, visit www.neighbourhoodsmallgrants.ca/our-communities/columbia-valley or email us at grants@valleyfoundation.ca

Parcel Tax Rolls

The first sitting of the Parcel Tax Review Panel will be held at the Municipal Office at 914 – 8th Avenue, Invermere, B.C. on Friday, March 22, 2023 at 10:00 am. The Parcel Tax Review Panel may review and correct the Parcel Tax Roll and hear complaints on one or more of the following grounds: there is an error or omission respecting a name or address on the parcel tax roll;

• there is an error or omission respecting the inclusion of a parcel;

there is an error or omission respecting the taxable area or the taxable frontage of a parcel; an exemption has been improperly allowed or disallowed.

The Parcel Tax Roll will be open for inspection at the Municipal Office during regular office hours. A complaint shall not be heard by the review panel unless notice of the appeal has been made in writing to the Director of Finance of the District of Invermere, Box 339, Invermere, B.C. V0A 1K0 by 10:00 a.m. on March 20, 2024

Karen L. Coté Director of Finance

Neighbourhood Small Grants are up for grabs in the Columbia Valley for projects that bring people together. Get yours today.

Another step towards STR regulations

By Steve Hubrecht  steve@columbiavalleypioneer.com

Another month gone, and the District of Invermere is another step closer to having short-term rental (STR) regulations in place.

The district has been working on regulating the exploding number of STRs in Invermere for nearly three years. Last week, during its Tuesday, March 12 council meeting, Invermere slightly tweaked amendments to its Official Community Plan (OCP) and its zoning bylaw to allow for the planned STR regulations. At the same meeting, it adopted amendments to its ticketing bylaw, allowing fines to be levelled against those who operate STR illegally in Invermere.

Earlier this winter council had given initial readings to several new bylaw amendments to help regulate STRs. There followed a small flurry of public discussion on the topic — with about 15 to 20 STR owners or operators voicing objections about the planned regulations being too tight, and with multiple other local residents voicing objections (to council and formally and informally to the Pioneer) about planned STR regulations being too loose.

But councillors and district staff, having worked so long on the proposed regulations and having already conducted several rounds of public consultation, remained unswayed. In late February they adopted an updat-

ed business licensing bylaw. And last week, the tweaks made were minor indeed and essentially consisted of a pair of clarifications.

For nearly a year district staff and councillors have outlined a twopronged approach — using both a business licensing bylaw and temporary use permits (TUPs) — to regulate STRs.

The first clarification emphasizes that only one TUP or business licence will be issued to an STR owner in Invermere. Invermere chief administrative officer Andrew Young explained that this means two or more STR units can not be operated on the same property under a single TUP or business licence.

The second clarification concerned noise monitoring systems for STRs, and

made clear that this means noise monitoring systems specifically on the exterior of buildings. These are required as part of getting a business licence for an STR.

“We’ve been through this a lot. It’s time to move ahead,” said Invermere councillor and deputy mayor Kayja Becker.

Young said, as he has many times in recent months, that “there is strong community support for STR regulation.”

The district will hold a public hearing about its tweaked OCP and zoning bylaw, likely in early April. It hopes to have its STR regulations in place by late April, with the rules coming into effect on May 1.

Director views response as ‘insult’

Columbia Valley Pioneer staff

It was a “sheer insult.”

That’s what a director with the Regional District of East Kootenay (RDEK) said about a response from the Ministry of Forests regarding the board’s endorsed resolution at last year’s UBCM convention.

At the March 8 board meeting, Area B director Stan Doehle expressed his disappointment with the ministry’s response to the board’s Crown land user fee resolution that was supported by Union of BC Municipalities delegates in the fall of 2023. The resolution asked the ministry to implement a Crown land camping fee structure with revenues to be used to provide amenities and im-

proved education and enforcement.

In the resolution, the RDEK noted the increased use of Crown land for overnight camping and other recreational uses, which require additional amenities such as pit toilets. In addition, there is need for environmental protection, trail and road maintenance and litter pick-up.

The resolution also noted the addi-

Announcement

The Lake Windermere Alliance Church Family is pleased to announce that ownership of the Sonshine Children’s Centre transferred to Bright New Minds Child Care Society on February 1, 2024.

Bright New Minds is a new, parent-led registered non-profit society with a vision to continue the provision of loving and engaging child care for the families of our community in the same bright sunshine yellow building. The same wonderful and caring educators will carry on with providing top-quality care, using the same programs to grow with each bright new mind.

Welcome to a Bright New Future – Congratulations!

The existing wait list will remain in place and will be honoured by Bright New Minds.

tional need for education and compliance resources to mitigate environmental impacts, human/wildlife conflicts, and to improve public safety.

In response, the ministry stated that fees are not available at this time. It also noted that camping on Crown land for up to 14 days without tenure is permitted.

Continued on page 9

RDEK not thrilled with ministry response

Continued from page 8

“Permission activities are limited and must be undertaken in a manner which does not negatively impact the environment, including the removal of all garbage and materials brought onto the land.”

The ministry concluded by saying

that an enforcement manager may limit or rescind this permission without notice at any time, even if the activity is in compliance with the policy.

But Doehle said the board’s resolution was endorsed 100 per cent by UBCM delegates and was upset that the ministry simply “dropped it.”

“A response like that, I think that’s

an insult to us,” said Doehle, noting it is worthwhile to bring up the issue again through Kootenay East MLA Tom Shypitka. Therefore, he made a motion to send a letter to the MLA to bring the issue up in the legislature.

The board supported the motion, with chair Rob Gay agreeing that the ministry response was “shortsighted.”

REGIONAL EVACUTION NOTIFICATION SYSTEM

REGISTRATION EVENTS

The

The RDEK

Everyone is welcome to stop by during these scheduled events to receive assistance signing up for the program. Residents may also call the RDEK to ask for help signing up to the system at 1-888-478-7335 and can sign-up online anytime by visiting the emergency information page at rdek.bc.ca

Event Dates:

CANAL FLATS April 18: Family Pantry (8953 Arbuckle St) 1 pm – 4 pm April 18: Seniors Club Potluck (Civic Centre 8911 Dunn St) 5 pm – 7 pm

RADIUM HOT SPRINGS April 30: Radium Library (4863 Stanley St) 12 pm – 4:30 pm

FAIRMONT HOT SPRINGS May 2: Mountainside Market (Fairmont Frontage Rd #8) 1 pm – 4 pm

CRANBROOK May 4: RDEK Emergency Preparedness Fair (Western Financial Place parking lot) 10 am – 2 pm

INVERMERE May 9: Invermere Legion Luncheon (525 13 St) 11 am – 1:30 pm May 9: Invermere Library (646 4 St) 2:30 pm – 5 pm

PUBLIC HEARING NOTICE – BYLAW 3274 – Columere

The Regional District of East Kootenay (RDEK) Board of Directors is considering an application by Timber Springs Community Association to amend the text of the Columbia Valley Zoning bylaw for a 0.98 hectare piece of Crown Land on Columbia Lake. The requested amendment will permit up to nine (9) existing seasonal mooring buoys. The affected area is located on Crown Land (in the lake) along the northwest shore of Columbia Lake between Timber Springs and Columere.

Bylaw No. 3274 cited as “Regional District of East Kootenay – Columbia Valley Zoning Bylaw No. 3255, 2023 – Amendment Bylaw No. 5, 2023 (Columere / Timber Springs Community Association)” will amend the text of the zoning bylaw for Crown land on and in the vicinity of District Lot 3711, Kootenay District, to permit up to 9 seasonal mooring buoys.

A public hearing will be held via Zoom webinar conference: Tuesday, April 2, 2024 at 7:00 pm.

The Board has delegated the holding of this hearing to the Directors for Electoral Areas F and the Village of Canal Flats.If you believe that your interest in property is affected by the proposed Bylaw, you may prior to the hearing:

inspect the Bylaw and supporting information by requesting that an information package be emailed to you by contacting kgilbert@rdek.bc.ca. Information packages may be requested up until Thursday, March 28, 2024 at 4:30 pm,

• mail or email written submissions to the addresses shown below before Thursday, March 28, 2024 at 4:30 pm;

• present verbal submissions at the public hearing.

You must pre-register in order to attend and provide verbal presentations or make comments at the hearing. The deadline to register is Thursday, March 28, 2024 at 4:30 pm. Register in advance for this webinar: https://us02web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_N2cSvJpvTCCRqrkYOwHfVA or by visiting www.rdek.bc.ca (Meetings/Minutes, Meetings & Notices page). Please note that a question and answer period will not occur during the Zoom webinar conference. You must address any questions relating to the bylaws to the Planning Technician prior to the above date.

SUBMISSIONS CANNOT BE ACCEPTED AFTER THE PUBLIC HEARING.

All submissions will form part of the public record and will be published in a meeting agenda posted online. Personal contact information such as phone and email will be removed from written submissions. Questions about the disclosure of your personal information may be referred to the Corporate Officer at 250-489-2791 or 1-888-478-7335.

This notice is not an interpretation of the Bylaws. For more information, contact Krista Gilbert, Planning Technician at 250-489-0314 or toll free at 1-888-478-7335 or email kgilbert@rdek.bc.ca.

OUT OF OFFICE…

The Power of Sharing

“Networking is more about farming than it is about hunting. It’s about cultivating relationships.” – Ivan

Misner

Part of the CV Chamber philosophy is the idea that sharing ideas is a powerful thing – what better way to meet in the middle than networking with your fellow local businesses? After all, they are the people who understand what the ebb and flow of our valley is like – they weather the same storms and ride the same waves.

Here is the thing with networking – you quite literally get what you put into it. The more of your own time, expertise, and attention that you dedicate to fostering relationships with your peers and associates, the more you will reap the benefits of those connections. The more

connections you foster and maintain, the more rewarding your networking experience will be –both in a philosophical and professional sense!

If you take care to broaden your networking horizons and speak with people of all business walks of life, there is a great chance that you will both benefit from the interactions, especially if you take care to continue those relationships. The difference between effective networking and forming a clique has to do with not only the levels of inclusiveness standards that you hold, but also a willingness to broaden your social and professional horizons – if you only fraternize with those whom you already know and share common ground, you might miss solid connections that come from unexpected directions.

The Columbia Valley Chamber of Commerce has started an initiative that intends to help create and maintain long-lasting and beneficial networking partnerships – ‘Chamber Connections’ is a scheduled evening that will take place in various locations throughout the Columbia Valley (at member locations) and will be hosted by at least two CV Chamber board members or staff. Free to attend, these events will be in addition to other networking and learning opportunities hosted by the Chamber and will be on the second Tuesday of every month.

The first of these “Chamber Connections” is planned at the Station Pub on April 9th from 5:30-7:30pm – we hope to see you there! Let’s all be better together!

-Deanna Berrington

Thursday, March 21

• 10:30am-11:30am: Senior’s Fitness Columbia Valley Centre, $2 dropin. **please note that this week this event will take place at the Invermere Seniors Hall**

• 11:30am-12:00pm: Little Lambs – Baby Program. Radium Public Library. Join us for songs, rhymes, and stories with your babies! No registration required.

• 2:00pm-3:00pm: Needles & Hooks. Invermere Library. Join us on the 1st & 3rd Thursday of each month at 2:00pm for Needles & Hooks. Bring your current yarn project and meet with other makers. All welcome!

• 6:00pm-7:00pm: Read it and Eat! Invermere Public Library. Read it and Eat is a cookbook club where we choose a featured cookbook each month, participants choose a recipe to make, and then bring the dish to the meeting to enjoy food and good company! Please contact the Invermere Library for details. The featured cookbook this month is: HalfBaked Harvest

• 6:45pm: Texas Hold ‘Em Poker Invermere Legion. $30 buy-in.

• 7:30pm: Families Housing that Fits. Zoom meeting with host Ben Postmus. Inclusive and supportive housing in your community. diversefamilyroots@gmail.com

• 7:30pm: Trivia Night Windermere Whitehouse Pub. Host Mandi Cox $3/ person, teams of more than 6 will be split into two groups. Ages 19+

Friday, March 22

• 10:30am-11:00am: Family Storytime. Invermere Public Library. Join us weekly on Fridays for Family Storytime at the library! With stories, songs & a craft. Geared towards preschool age (2-5) but all welcome.

• 2:30pm-4:00pm: Teen Connect and Create Radium Public Library. Every fourth Friday of the month. Connect with other teens while making different creations each month! For ages 13 to 18. No registration required.

• 6:30pm - close: Meat Draw and 50/50 in the Legion! Members and guests welcome!

Saturday, March 23

• 10:00am-2:00am: Panorama Pride & Ski Festival. Panorama Ski Hill. Various locations and events including Drag Ball with Miss Vanjie (from RuPaul’s Drag Race) See website for details: PanoramaResort.com/Pride

• 10:30am-11:00am: Family Storytime. Invermere Public Library. Join us weekly on Saturdays for Family Storytime at the library! With stories, songs & a craft. Geared towards preschool age (2-5) but all welcome.

• 11:00am-12:30pm: LEGO/Duplo Club Invermere Public Library. We'll have Lego, Duplo, big blocks & more out to play with on Saturday mornings! All ages welcome.

• 2:00pm-4:00pm: Buddy Reading. Invermere Public Library. Contact us to book a 30 minute session to read with a librarian. Practice reading aloud one-on-one to build skill, confidence & a love of reading! Open to all ages and reading abilities.

• 6:30pm: Meat Draw and 50/50 in the Legion! Members and guests welcome!

Sunday, March 24

• 8:00am-10:00am: Panorama Pride & Ski Festival. Panorama Ski Hill. Various locations and events: see website for details: PanoramaResort.com/Pride

• 2:00pm: Cards, Cribbage and Darts Come to the Legion and have some fun! Members and guests welcome.

• 7:00pm: Live Music Horsethief Creek Pub & Eatery. Accompanied minors are permitted. No cover.

• 7:30pm: Dads Matter. Zoom meeting with host Ben Postmus. Dads connecting, Dads Supporting, Dads Inspiring. Do you have a son or daughter with Diverse Abilities? So do I. diversefamilyroots@gmail.com

Monday, March 25

• 10:00am-11:00am: Senior's Yoga Columbia Valley Centre, Invermere. $2 drop in, open to all seniors.

• 6:30pm: Poker (Chip up for Charity). The Station Pub $20 buy-in. Every Monday.

Tuesday, March 26

• 10:30am-11:30am: Senior’s Fitness Columbia Valley Centre, $2 drop-in.

• 1:00pm-3:30pm: Art in the Afternoon. Radium Library. A free program for local artists and art enthusiasts! Whether you sketch, paint, carve, knit or crochet, bring your supplies and work alongside fellow artists.

• 6:30pm-8:00pm: Second Winds Community Band. We are looking for new band members! Play an instrument? Practice at Invermere Catholic Church Annex. For info please email dalvande@shaw.ca

• 7:00pm: Ullr Presents: Musical Bingo with Tim Richards. Ullr Bar. Every Tuesday - $5 per card.

• 7:30pm: Families on Tuesday. Zoom meeting with host Ben Postmus. Families connecting, Families Sharing, Families Supporting Families: Support, Listening, Sharing, Connecting. diversefamilyroots@gmail.com

• Wednesday, March 27

• 10:00am-11:00am: Senior's Yoga Columbia Valley Centre, $2 dropin.

• 11:30am-12:00pm: Story Time. Radium Library - preschool & all ages.

• 6:00pm-8:00pm: Craft Connections Club for Adults. Invermere Public Library. This month we're making Flower Wreaths using egg cartons, paint and felt! Please Register: phone 250-342-6416 or email publiclibrary@invermere.net

• 6:00pm-9:00pm: Wednesday Dinners & Meat Draw & 50/50 Invermere Legion. All welcome.

PUBLIC HEARING NOTICE

Official Community Plan Amendment Bylaw No. 1658, 2024 and

Zoning Bylaw Amendment Bylaw No. 1659, 2024

The Council of the District of Invermere gives notice that it will meet and hold a Public Hearing, on April 4, 2024, at 6:00 pm MT, at the Columbia Valley Centre located at 6464th Street, Invermere, BC to consider an application by the Metis Nation British Columbia to amend the land use designation and zoning of the following property:

Civic Address: 1102 – 13th Street (property highlighted on the inserted map below)

Legal Description: Lot 2, District Lot 1092, Kootenay District Plan NEP15924, PID: 009-047-239 (the Subject Property)

Application Intent: The intent of the application received by Council is to support amendments to the Official Community Plan (OCP) and Zoning Bylaws to allow for the development of a four-storey rental residential building with approximately 36 rental units and a separate 3,000-square-foot community gathering and office space building on the subject property. The Bylaw amendments necessary to support the application are as follows:

OCP Amendment Bylaw No. 1658, 2024 proposes a change the land use designation of the North portion of the Subject Property in Invermere’s OCP Bylaw No. 1495, 2015 Residential Map 3.2 (as amended) from PLANNED RESIDENTIAL to MULTI FAMILY RESIDENTIAL (HIGH DENSITY) and;

A change to the Land Use Plan – Parks, Pathways, and Institutional Map 3.3 of OCP Bylaw No. 1495, 2015 on the South portion of the Subject Property from PLANNED RESIDENTIAL to PUBLIC INSTITUTIONAL

Zoning Amendment Bylaw No. 1659, 2024 proposes a change in the zoning of the Subject Property from R-2 LOW DENSITY RESIDENTIAL to CDZ- 6 COMPREHENSIVE DEVELOPMENT ZONE 6: MNBC.

A copy of proposed OCP Bylaw Amendment Bylaw No. 1658, 2024 and Zoning Bylaw Amendment Bylaw No. 1659, 2024 and related documents may be inspected at the District of Invermere Municipal Office at 914 – 8th Avenue, Invermere, BC between the hours of 8:30 am to 4:30 pm from March 21, 2024, to April 4, 2024. The proposed bylaws may also be inspected online at the District of Invermere website: https://invermere.net/news/ Persons who wish to comment on the proposed bylaws and amendments, can submit them in one of the following ways:

• Mailed or hand delivered to the District of Invermere Office at 914 – 8th Avenue, PO Box 339, Invermere, BC V0A 1K0, provided they are received by the Corporate Officer not later than 12:00 pm MT, Wednesday April 3, 2024

Email to corporateservices@invermere.net received by 12:00 pm MT, Wednesday April 3, 2024

Facsimile to 250-342-2934 received by 12:00 pm MT, Wednesday April 3, 2024

By attending the Public Hearing on Thursday April 4th at 6:00 pm MT

Written comments received will be distributed to Council for their consideration at the public hearing. Those members of the public in attendance at the hearing will be allowed to make presentations to Council or present written submissions respecting matters contained in the proposed bylaws.

If you have questions or require more information, please contact the District of Invermere at (250) 342-9281 extension 1228 or by email to info@invermere.net

Rory Hromadnik

Director of Development Services

Pat Cope steps down

By Steve Hubrecht  steve@columbiavalleypioneer.com

Longtime Family Dynamix Association executive director Pat Cope is stepping down from the role this spring.

The Family Dynamix Association (formerly known as the Family Resource Centre) is a nonprofit group that works to support families, women and children throughout the Columbia Valley in a wide range of programs and services.

Cope has been involved with the association for more than 30 years and has been its executive director for much of that time. During that stretch she has been instrumental in initiating new programs and projects (including several very prominent affordable housing developments) and has left an imprint on the valley that will last for years to come.

“She has really done a lot for Family Dynamix, and in fact for the whole valley. She’s been actively involved in so much,” said Family Dynamix Better at Home program coordinator Jennifer Lindal. “She really is immersed in all aspects of the valley.”

Lindal is also Cope’s sister and recalls that even while growing up, Cope had a big heart. Cope moved away from the Columbia Valley for a while as a young adult, but returned, and then started working with Family Dynamix not long after.

“To do the kind of work Family Dynamix does, you have to lead with your heart first. And Pat definitely has done that. She’s been an exemplary role model for us,” said Lindal. “It’s been a great journey to work with her.”

Cope’s many accomplishments include spearheading the Farmhouse affordable housing project, the Carriage Court affordable housing project, the Invermere Centre block (with low-rent commercial office space in lower units

and low-rent apartments above), planning a Dragon Boat festival to draw attention to and support women’s rights, launching the Early Years program, setting up multiple office spaces for the association in Invermere, launching a satellite office in Canal Flats, opening the Women’s Centre near the laundromat, and much more.

Outside of the Family Dynamix Association, Cope has served on the board of the Columbia Valley Food Bank and has been president of Royal Canadian Legion Branch 71, Windermere District, among other volunteer efforts.

Cope will be retiring to an acreage near Wycliffe (between Kimberley and Cranbrook) where she and her husband will live a more rural lifestyle. “She’s really going to enjoy a lot more gardening, growing her own vegetables, raising animals and being outdoors,” said Lindal. ‘She loves those things, she just hasn’t yet had a chance to do them as much as she would like.”

“She really has done a lot for Family Dynamix.”

- Jennifer Lindal

A farewell party for Cope will be held at the Legion on 13th Street in Invermere on Thursday, March 28. The event will run from 1 to 4 p.m. There will be a slide show, a few stories shared, and some gag gifts given.

“It’s a casual, drop-in style event. That’s the way Pat wants it. Members of the community can pop in and leave at any time,” outlined Lindal.

Invermere resident and former Invermere councillor Ute Juras will take over from Cope as the new Family Dynamix Association executive director.

Consultation begins on affordable housing

By Steve Hubrecht  steve@columbiavalleypioneer.com

A rezoning request for an ambitious development proposal in Invermere got initial readings during last week’s council meeting.

The development, if it goes ahead, will see a new four-storey building with 36 long-term rental units go up in Upper Invermere, on the north side of 13th Street, along with a separate 3,000 square foot (280 square metre) office building and community gathering space for the Columbia Valley Métis Association (CVMA).

The project is one of the biggest developments proposed in Invermere in recent years, and the 36 units of purpose-built rentals represent one of the largest (potential) steps yet taken, either publicly or private, to put a dent in the ongoing affordable housing crisis wracking the Columbia Valley.

The CVMA is working in partnership with the Métis Nation of British Columbia (MNBC) on the development proposal. The two organizations plan to buy the site from its current owner, longtime valley resident Helmut Spiegel. The property is a large parcel (5,220 square metres) on 13th Street. It also abuts the stretch of 11th Avenue extending south from the Invermere hospital, and to the west it borders the Osprey Lane single-storey townhomes. Currently there is just one single family residential house on the property, which would be torn down to make room for the development.

The CVMA and MNBC are asking the District of Invermere to change the zoning on the property from R-2 multi family residential low-density (which it is now) to CDZ-6 comprehensive development zoning (which will allow for the higher density of homes the development envisions, as well as allow for the office and community space).

A total of 16 of 36 rental units in the building would be two or more bedrooms, designed specifically with families in mind. The CVMA office and community building would be two storeys high and would front onto 13th Street. It would serve as a cultural landmark and hub for the local Métis community in the Columbia Valley. In conceptual drawings, the roofline and entryway of the office-community building are intended to symbolize the Métis sash.

During last week’s (March 12) council meeting, councillors gave first and second reading to the proposed zoning changes. The anticipated timeline outlined by Invermere planner Rory Hromadnik in his report to council show things moving along swiftly: the district will begin conducting public consultation this week, with an eye to giving the zoning changes third reading at the council meeting on either Tuesday, April 9 or Tuesday, April 23, and then adopting them at the meeting on either Tuesday, April 23 (if third reading comes on April 9) or on Tuesday, May 14 (if third reading comes on April 23).

A digital roundtable discussion on the development was scheduled for Wednesday, March 20, after this issue of the Pioneer went to press, but before it hit news stands.  An open house is slated for Wednesday, March 27 at the Columbia Valley Centre at 6 pm., and a public hearing for Thursday, April 4, also at the Columbia Valley Centre at 6 p.m.

“It is quite a large change for the area. We will likely be hearing from quite a few people (during public consultation),” said Invermere deputy mayor Kayja Becker.

“We know the importance of housing in our community, the lack of affordable housing, the lack of market housing, period . . . this will create a lot of housing . . . but it is a big change from what we have in the area,” agreed Invermere Mayor Al Miller.

Official Community Plan Bylaw No. 1495, 2015, Amendment Bylaw No. 1653, 2024 And Zoning Bylaw No. 1145, 2002, Amendment Bylaw No. 1654, 2024

NOTICE is given that the following bylaws have received first and second readings by the District of Invermere Council:

Official Community Plan Bylaw No. 1495, 2015, Amendment Bylaw No. 1653, 2024 and

• Zoning Bylaw No. 1145, 2002, Amendment Bylaw No. 1654, 2024 and pursuant to Part 14, Division 3, Section 464 of the Local Government Act a Public Hearing for these bylaws is to be held in the Columbia Valley Centre located at 646 – 4th Street, Invermere, BC at 7:00 pm MT on Thursday, April 4, 2024. The hearing is scheduled to address: Official Community Plan Bylaw No. 1495, 2015, Amendment Bylaw No. 1653, 2024 which will if adopted:

Add provisions to the District’s Official Community Plan (OCP) to provide guidance and direction to the public and the District of Invermere (the District) when considering a Temporary Use Permit (TUP) application for a Short-Term Rental Accommodation Unit (STR). In the District of Invermere a STR TUP is intended for use where the District’s Official Community Plan (Bylaw No. 1495, 2015, as amended) or Zoning Bylaw No. 1145, 2002, as amended, do not otherwise allow an STR; for example, Invermere’s single-family residential and low-density residential areas. The District’s preference for managing STRs in these areas, where it is appropriate, is with TUPs.

Zoning Bylaw No. 1145, 2002, Amendment Bylaw No. 1654, 2024 which will if adopted: Add provisions to the District’s Zoning Bylaw to provide guidance and direction to the public and the District of Invermere (the District) when considering issuing a business licence for a Short-Term Rental Accommodation Unit (STR) where the use is permitted under the District’s Zoning Bylaw No. 1145, 2002, as amended.

In general terms the purpose of the Public Hearing is to provide an opportunity for public input respecting the two bylaws. Following the Public Hearing the Council of the District of Invermere may consider giving third reading to Official Community Plan Bylaw No. 1495, 2015, Amendment Bylaw No. 1653, 2024, and Zoning Bylaw No. 1145, 2002, Amendment Bylaw No. 1654, 2024.

Persons who wish to provide written comments on the proposed bylaws and amendments, can submit them in one of the following ways provided they are received by the Corporate Officer not later than 12:00 pm MT, Wednesday April 3, 2024:

By Mail or Hand delivery to the District of Invermere Municipal Office at 914 – 8th Avenue, PO Box 339, Invermere, BC V0A 1K0

• Email sent to corporateservices@invermere.net

Facsimile sent to 250-342-2934

By attending the Public Hearing on Thursday, April 4th at 7:00 pm MT

Written comments received will be distributed to Council for their consideration at the Public Hearing.

Those members of the public in attendance at the Public Hearing will be allowed to make presentations to Council or present written submissions respecting matters contained in the proposed bylaws.

A copy of proposed Official Community Plan Bylaw No. 1495, 2015, Amendment Bylaw No. 1653, 2024, and Zoning Bylaw No. 1145, 2002, Amendment Bylaw No. 1654, 2024 and related documents may be inspected at the District of Invermere Municipal Office at 914 – 8th Avenue, Invermere, BC during regular business hours 8:30 am to 4:30 pm Monday through Friday from March 21, 2024, to April 4, 2024. The proposed bylaws may also be inspected online at the District of Invermere website: https://invermere.net/news/

If you have questions or require more information about Bylaw No. 1653, 2024, or Bylaw No. 1654, 2024 please contact the District of Invermere Municipal Office at (250) 342-9281, or by email to: info@invermere.net

Andrew Young, MCIP, RPP

Rory Hromadnik, RPF Chief Administrative Officer Director of Development Services

A screenshot from Invermere council documents shows a concept drawing of the proposed affordable housing and Columbia Valley Metis Association community building development on 13th Street.

Show a little ‘Puppy Love’ for GALS

Columbia Valley Pioneer staff

Animal lovers are urged to unite in solidarity on March 23 to show a little “Puppy Love” in Invermere.

The annual fundraiser for GALS (Global Animal Lovers) is a nice way to show support for furry, scaled or feathered friends in the community.

GALS is an organization that helps animals that can’t help themselves. With dedicated volunteers, spay/neuter clinics, and a network of foster and adoptive homes, GALs endeavours to help solve the stray and abandoned ani-

mal problem in the Columbia Valley.

Puppy Love organizer Sarah Eastick said the cost of spaying, neutering, and vaccinating animals adds up quickly. But thanks to the generosity of local businesses, the burden isn’t as surmountable.

She noted that last year’s event raised more than $16,000 for GALS in a single day, which helped tackle the mountain of veterinary bills and costs associated with helping often abused and neglected animals.

The family event on Saturday, March 23 at Columbia Valley Centre will feature a mini tattoo convention, bake

sale, silent auction, live music and an adults-only party in the evening.

Businesses are asked to donate items for the silent auction, with all proceeds going to GALS.

Eastick, who has a soft spot for animals, started volunteering for GALS 13 years ago when she became friends with Cindy Hopper from Choppers Pet Supplies.

“They (Choppers) do so much good work in the community, and Cindy has such a big heart (for animals).”

Eastick herself has fostered more than 40 dogs over the years, so she knows how expensive vet bills can be.

She noted that some of the scenarios that animals find themselves in are heartbreaking and “pretty awful.”

She will never forget one little dog that came in; its fur was so matted that it took her and Hopper hours to cut much of the coat off.

The poor thing was in “so much pain,” but by the end of it the dog was so relieved and happy. And when a home is found for these furry friends, it makes everything worth it, Eastick told the Pioneer

For more information, contact Eastick at 250-342-8844 or email firevixentattoos@gmail.com.

This year’s Puppy Love fundraiser for GALS will feature a silent auction, mini tattoo convention, bake sale, live music,

Al-Anon. Are you concerned about or affected by someone else’s drinking? Meeting

Mondays 7:15 pm, at Canadian Martyrs Parish front side door. 712 12 Ave. Invermere. For more information or to speak with someone from our fellowship, please call 250878-2448 or 250-342-8392

Alcoholics Anonymous. If alcohol is causing problems or conflict in your life, AA can help. All meetings are at 7 pm. Columbia United AA, Invermere: Saturday, Sunday, Tuesday and Wednesday at the BC Service Building, South End-624 4th St. Invermere. Please call 250-3422424 for more information or to speak with someone from our fellowship.

Narcotics Anonymous. Open meeting.

Mondays 7 pm at the BC Service Building, South End. 624-4th St. Invermere

Annual General Meeting of the Edgewater Recreation Society

Tuesday, April 9, 2024 7:00PM at the Community Hall

Everyone Welcome (Voters must have registered for membership by March 10, 2024)

Serving

& Area cell 250-341-1202 gerry@gerrytaft.ca

Cheers to Ray Feuz who scored spectacular Hat Trick Goals Monday March 11th for Team #1 of the Old Silver Tips Hockey Team during a close fought game against Team #2.

Cheers to the gals at Lamber Kipp Pharmacy for the friendly service.

Cheers to Kevin, the gentleman who rushed to my assistance when I had a nasty fall on the sidewalk in downtown Invermere. Your kindness is very appreciated.

Cheers to Stolen Church coffee for donating to the St. Patrick’s Day Tea.

Cheers to Kandi at Couture Beauty for the great haircut. I’m very happy. I will be back!

Cheers to Heath at Selkirk Cellular for the great customer service!

Cheers to Steve and Audrey at The Local View. The quality of your work is on point and the service is always top notch . Best print shop in town!

Cheers to Palliser Printing for donating a large print crossword. The seniors love it!

Cheers to Kirsten H. for treating me to dinner. It was a great evening with great conversation.

Cheers to the O.K. Tire staff. We have been customers for many years and want you to know that you are great at what you do. We appreciate the excellent service.

A great big Cheers to Fred and Richard at K5!  Great service; great people.  I appreciate you always taking such good care of my car for me. Carol B.

Cheers to Sobeys, Cris (posters) Gail (baby blanket) Elaine (apron) and to all the people that attended Edgewater/Radium Hospital Auxiliary St. Patrick’s Day Tea!! What a wonderful event.

Cheers to Nozomi for making such adorable crochet chicks for our Grade 3 class. The gesture was very thoughtful and a lovely surprise.

www.columbiavalleypioneer.com

Cheers to our Home Care Nurses!! They are amazing. I appreciate the help you’ve given me to deal with a life changing surgery with dignity and grace!

A special shout out to Gabbie, Jenn, Kelsey and Carol! You ladies are ROCK STARS!! With gratitude from Lisa

HUGE cheers to Jacquie, Nick, all your staff, and especially Kathryn and Destiny at the Black Forest. It was another wonderful dinner for a special birthday celebration. Everyone raved about the food and service. You managed all 17 of us with such grace.

Cheers to the lady (I’m sorry, I don’t know her name) that works at the Invermere transfer and recycling station. She is always pleasant, always working, and maintains that entire area impeccably clean and in tip-top shape!

B. B.’s Home and Design Services Renovations, Masonry & Handyman Services, Blinds, House checks, eavestrough/ yard cleaning/dump runs. 250-688-2897 or 403-861-8782

THE HEARTFELT COMPANION

Services for Seniors. Since 2014 we’ve provided kind and compassionate non-medical care, transportation to Cranbrook, overnight care, meal prep, grocery shopping and more. Excellent local references. 250-341-5683 Heartfeltcompanionservices. com

Get-ER-Done Handyman

Landscaping, Asphalt Pads, General Contracting, Cleaning Gutters, House Checks, Pressure Washing. Call Ryan 604-346-5087

Produces up to 12 litres of water per hour. Compact, light-weight, effective, simple to use, simple to maintain, inexpensive, no electricity required, no replacement parts, lasts a lifetime. Treat unsafe piped water, lake, river and stream, rain water, and canal water. See www.cabincleanwaterfilter.com

Doug’s Small Engine

Tune-ups and repairs. Chainsaws, mowers and much more.

For professional service call 250-342-6068

LAWN RANGER

250-342-9222

Lawn & Dump Services

• Yard Cleans

• Hedge & Brush Trims

• Dump Runs

Chisel Peak Medical Clinic is looking for a student to join our team for the summer. If you are graduating this year or will be returning to university we would love to hear from you. Please drop off your resume, or email it to medicalclinic@chiselpeak.ca

Mac-Neil Landscaping is looking for hard working individuals to join our team this season. No experience needed, wage based on skills that you bring. Please send email to gord@mac-neil.com if you want to join our great company.

Local Electrical Contractor looking for Journeyman Electrician. Wage DOE. Email resume to: ekelectric@telus.net.

Help Wanted: Cross River Education and Retreat Centre www.crossriver.ca Seasonal cook required, May 15 - September 30, 2024 Email resume and salary expectations to: rob@crossriver.ca Parttime housekeeping required for various times during summer Part-time maintenance/ carpenter helper required for various times during summer rob@crossriver.ca Alpine Building Operations is looking for lawn maintenance staff at Panorama Resort. Duties include mowing, weed trimming, garbage removal, skid steer operation and general labor. Phone: 250-2700435

Email: alpinebuildingops@gmail.com

4 bedroom, 3 bathroom home in Windermere for long term rental.

1 year lease $2500/ month plus utilities. 403-519-9634

Rent a deer proofed community garden bed at Groundswell Mt Nelson or the Groundswell Greenhouse Garden and serve organic veggies all summer long.  Garden with friends, learn lots. To find out more email events@groundswellnetwork.ca

OBITUARY

OBITUARY

Hazel Vera Dalke (nee Drinnan)

April 16, 1943 - October 4, 2023

It is with great sadness that our family announces the passing of my Mother, our Sister, Aunt, Great Aunt, and friend to many. Predeceased by her loving Husband Gary Dalke. Survived by her daughter Narelle Dalke, siblings Dianne (Michael) Burtnick, Robert (Pam, dec.) Drinnan, Donald (Evelyn) Drinnan and Pepita (Patrick) Bird.

Hazel was born in Cape Town, South Africa. At the age of 18 months, she and her mother immigrated to Australia to join her father and take up permanent residence. The eldest of five siblings, she spent her childhood in the idyllic coastal town of Tumby Bay, South Australia. She was an active ocean swimmer and in 1957-59 she and her teammates were among the first female graduates of the Royal Life Saving - Australia swimming club to obtain the qualification and become lifesavers.

At 17, she left home to pursue her education, attending Thebarton Teachers College in Adelaide, then going on to take her first Governance posting in the Australian territories. A few years later, she returned to Adelaide where she began working as receptionist with the Hotel Adelaide. Originally intending only to apply for the position, discovered soon after arriving at the Hotel that there was no interview. Tired of hearing the phone go unanswered, she let herself in behind the counter, sat down behind the desk and started work.

In 1968 she worked as a travel agent with Kings National Travel Agency, where, as fate would have it, she would go on a spontaneous lunch date with her co-worker and friend. Little did she know she would be introduced to her future husband, Gary. Hazel and Gary married in 1970 and they settled in Invermere, British Columbia, Canada. In 1970 they bought their first home in town and their first business, a small motel which they renovated and renamed to ‘Motel Narelle’.

Between 1970 – 1976, they acquired the Toby Block located on main street in downtown Invermere. The building consisted of 4 commercial spaces on the ground floor, with 3 residential apartments above, successfully maintaining until 2015. Shortly after their daughter was born, they sold ‘Motel Narelle’ and purchased the Lee-Jay Motel. They completely renovated and eventually built the hotel units, now Hillcrest Apartments, maintaining them up until the late 1980’s. Hazel taught herself how to successfully run these businesses in every single aspect from bookings, cleaning crews, scheduling, tenants and financials. She had an incredible work ethic and never asked anyone to do anything she was not willing to do herself.

Hazel became an active member of the Lake Windermere Players, and in 1974 she performed in her first play “Silver Wedding” for which she won Best Actress. In 1975 she played the main character Adelaide, and was the Director of Choreography in the musical production of “Guys and Dolls”. “Guys and Dolls” was Lake Windermere Players’ second annual musical production staged at The Invermere Community Centre. Hazel directed the production of “Little Red Riding Hood” (and The Incredible Jug Band), and starred in the winning entry in the East Kootenay drama festival, Harold Pinter’s “The Lover” (later presented at the B.C. drama festival finals). Hazel also performed as the main character in “The Lover”, for which she won best actress and was runner-up for the direction award. The local paper stated “She maintained an air of ingenuous spontaneity throughout.” Other noteworthy productions: the melodrama “Love Rides The Rails”, “Request Stop” and “Last of the Red Hot Lovers” in 1976. In 1978 she played by far her favorite role - the main character Annie Oakley in “Annie Get Your Gun” (1980). She directed “Count Dracula” and “The Butler Didn’t Do It” and wrote skits and directed the local Alliance Church Christmas Pageants for several years.

After retirement, Hazel would again return to teaching in the early 90’s, working one-on-one as a tutor with children having difficulty in school and adults learning English as a Second Language. She specialized in auditory learning challenges and facilitating learning through improving coordination. She helped her students build their vocabulary skills and an understanding of similarities and differences of word concepts and to develop and establish an organized base of thought and knowledge necessary for verbal expression. She was enthusiastic and helpful, serving not only as a tutor for several students, both adults and children, but was also on the Community Advisory Committee and part of the noon hour supervision team at Eileen Madson Primary School for many years.

Hazel had an enthusiastic sense of humour, always on hand with a joke, limerick, or funny story to tell, penning many poems, short stories, and illustrations. She had a lifelong passion for reading, writing, learning, history and watercolour painting. She cared deeply for her family and friends and exemplified caring for others in every aspect of her life. Always on her next project with the aim of caring for others, she created hand made quilts, knitted sweaters, rhubarb flummery, lemon cake, and fantastic fudge brownies, and gifted tumbler tomato plants or one of her many homeopathic remedies from her garden. She was very well known for her spirituality and dedication to her faith and as a person of extremely high moral standards. She was ‘a force to be reckoned with.’ As a friend expressed recently, “She was Hazel.”

In keeping with Hazel’s wishes a graveside service will be held at Mount View Cemetery on Monday, April 15th at 2 p.m. Tea to follow immediately afterwards at the Windermere Community Hall, 4726 North St., Windermere.

In lieu of flowers please consider a donation in Hazel’s name to one of her favorite charities, ICAN or your local Food Bank. In doing so, know that she would tell you, “Bless your little cotton socks.”

In Loving Memory

Dale Robert Elliott

October 11, 1960 — March 3, 2024

With heavy hearts we announce the passing of Dale Robert Elliott on March 3rd, 2024.

Dale will be fondly remembered and profoundly missed by many people in the Columbia Valley. Having lived and worked in the valley his entire life, Dale formed many close friendships through his work and time spent hunting and fishing. Dale was always willing to lend a helping hand to his community, and without a doubt the many people touched by his generosity are grieving this loss together. The Elliott family would like to thank everyone for the support received both during Dale’s short battle with cancer and after his passing.

Dale is survived by his wife, Lois Elliott; his mother, Esther Elliott; his daughters Shawna Rehaume (partner Michael Gaudette), Julie Kinderwater (partner Matthew Kinderwater); and 6 grandchildren: Kayley, Aurora, Deegan, Rylie, Bodie, and Isaac.

Dale was predeceased by his brother, Richard Elliott; his father, Walter Elliott; and his sister, Susan Serediuk.

Dale’s family will arrange a Celebration of Life in the late spring or early summer months when it’s easier for extended family and friends to travel and attend. The celebration will be held close to Radium Hot Springs.

OBITUARY

September 6, 1931 - March 2, 2024

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the sudden passing of our beloved father, Robert Marshall, best known as ‘Pops’.

Predeceased by his wife Darlene, parents Helen & Jack, brother Bill, sister Elsie and niece Cheryl.

Missed by his daughters, Shelly (Jacques), Coreen (Gary), Noreen (John), his numerous grandchildren along with his nieces, Cindy, Lisa & nephew, Richard.

In 1969, Pops moved to Canal Flats from Elko to continue his work with forestry then later moved over to Crestbrook Forest Industries until retirement in 1996.In 1975, Pops married Darlene, a young widow with three daughters. There was never a dull moment and Pops wouldn’t have had it any other way. He loved family life and all the surprises that came with it. Travel was alway a love Mom & Pops shared. Every spring they would head south, sometimes with friends or just by themselves. Pops was a very active and respected man within his community. Pops loved his garden and grew beautiful veggies which he so kindly shared with family and neighbours. He loved and followed all sports and especially enjoyed the C.F. Curling League.

In later years when Pops became a grandfather, he took a special interest in fishing with his grandsons and loved following their many baseball and hockey games.

Pops was a very kind and generous man and will always be remembered for his subtle and unselfish ways he gave to others.

The family would like to send a special ‘Thank You’ to our doctors & staff at the Invermere & District Hospital with special Thanks to Dr. Schaffer.

Last but not least, Thank You to the Columbia Garden Village for your care and professionalism. Pops felt very blessed living his last years so comfortably and actively with all of you.

As per Pop’s request, there will be no service. His family will gather to hold a small family celebration at a later date.

ROBERT MARSHALL (POPS)

SPORTS BEY ND THE BLUE LINE

Rockies end season with heads held high

By Stephanie Stevens

It is not how they stand in comfort and convenience, but how they stand in the face of challenges.

While Martin Luther King Jr. was not speaking specifically to hockey, his words ring true as the Columbia Valley Rockies clear out their lockers this week and head their separate ways.

The 2023-24 Kootenay International Junior Hockey League (KIJHL) season is over for them after a final loss to the Fernie Ghostriders Saturday, March 16.

But they skated farther than perhaps suspected at the start of the year, and made it nearly to the end of the sec-

ond playoff round, pushing face on into the storm.

”I'm very proud of what the boys accomplished … they gave us their best effort all season,” said head coach Tayler Sincennes. “It's unfortunate that it ended but there were lots of lessons learned both for the players and myself. It was very cool to see the community come out and support us this year and I really appreciate that as well. All in all a very successful season for our group to look back on and be proud of.”

Tuesday March 12 saw Fernie successful in Eddie Mountain Memorial Arena, with Kyran Gromnisky (assists by Bryan Kim and Gage Sather) potting the

DISTRICT OF INVERMERE

914 – 8th Avenue, PO Box 339

Invermere, BC V0A 1K0

lone goal in the 4-1 loss.

The Rockies returned the favour in Fernie March 14, handing the Riders a neatly packaged 5-1 loss.

Kim opened things up in the first (assists from Luke Hamilton and Carter Velker), followed in the second by an unassisted short-handed goal by Gromnisky and one more from Teo Fath (assists from Gromnisky and Kaelan Shelton). Third period action was opened up by new kid Caden Williams (assists from Ben Sharp and Jamieson Franz) and Sharp finished it off with a power play goal (assist from Carter Krause).

In the final home game, Fath scored the lone goal, assisted by Shelton and Gromnisky - perhaps fittingly as it was the final Rockies game for the 20-yearold trio as they move on from the KIJHL.

championship.

“That's what we are trying to do here, so obviously it sucks we lost out but at the same time it's a huge learning opportunity for us all. We (the coaching staff) are really excited for next season and excited to have the guys who were 18 this year back as 19 year olds and we will be looking for our 20 year olds to really stand out as leaders and help us bring a KIJHL championship to the valley.”

Assistant coach Tanner Wit had similar sentiments about the year, as well as the character that the challenges brought out in the players.

on the Lake

Tel: (250) 342-9281 Fax: (250) 342-2934 Invermere

EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY

Environmental Planner (Temporary Part-Time Contract)

The District of lnvermere is seeking an experienced and customer service focused individual to join our team as Environmental Planner. Reporting to the Director of Development Services, the Environmental Planner is a member of the District’s planning and development team and plays a crucial role in reviewing and reporting on development applications, and identifying climate change risks and mitigation opportunities for action by the municipality.

THE POSITION:

We are seeking a proactive individual with superior verbal and written communication skills, exceptional project management skills, and highly effective decision-making skills. You should also have a successful track record of using your technical expertise and problem-solving abilities to find successful innovative solutions. You are also known for working collaboratively with all interested parties to find win-win solutions that protect community interests and make solid recommendations to District Council.

You will be working with a group of highly experienced staff who will be expecting you to bring energy and enthusiasm to the position, communicate effectively and positively, while being sensitive and respectful to differing opinions. Your collaborative work style will help sustain a positive and respectful workplace climate.

This is an excellent opportunity to join a team dedicated to creating a vibrant, sustainable, complete, and livable community.

HOW TO APPLY:

If you are interested in this position, please send a cover letter and resume outlining your qualifications and experience to the email or the address below by 4:00 pm (MT), April 4th, 2024 quoting “Environmental Planner 2024”.

District of Invermere

Kindry Luyendyk, Corporate Officer

Box 339, 914 – 8th Avenue

Invermere, BC, V0A 1K0 corporateservices@invermere.net

Tel: 250-342-9281

The last couple of weeks of play saw the team struggle with injuries and a few suspensions, but in the end, they proved their mettle and rose past it all.

“We were really happy with our season and how we battled through some adversity at times,” said associate coach Tucker Braund. “We were super happy winning the first round against Kimbo and we were right there with Fernie, but ultimately lost to an older veteran team. I think that experience will help our returners next year to see what it takes to go deep in this league and to win a

“The team came out hard against Fernie and had to battle some tremendous adversity with watching one of their brothers go down early in the series,” he said. “Emotions aside, they made it a proper series. The work ethic and the emotional sacrifice was a tough ask for a young group and they did as well as we could've asked. Fernie was a match-up that we had in our plans for a while and I thought we did everything within our power to make sure the team made a push and they did just that. I am so proud of the group and so happy for the impact that they made this year.

Wit also noted the support from the community and its fan base fueled the Rockies fire this season.

Métis Nation British Columbia (MNBC), in collaboration with the Columbia Valley Métis Association (CVMA), has submitted an application to develop 1102 13th Street in Invermere.

The proposal includes a 4-storey rental residential building and a single-storey community building for CVMA. MNBC is hosting a Public Information Meeting on Wednesday, March 27 which is an opportunity for the project team to introduce ourselves, provide information about the proposal, and to collect feedback from the community.

Date: Wednesday, March 27, 2024

Time: Drop-in anytime between 5:00 pm to 7:00 pm

Métis Nation British Columbia (MNBC), in collaboration with Association (CVMA), has submitted an application to develop The proposal includes a 4-storey rental residential building building for CVMA. MNBC is hosting a Public Information

Where: The Columbia Valley Centre 646 – 4th Street, Invermere, BC

which is an opportunity for the project team to introduce

Easter bunny on the way for ‘Egg-Stravaganza’

This week’s column was written by Jacqueline Kozak, director of the Radium Public Library, and Donna Tunney from Friends of the Library.

The Radium Hot Springs Public Library will once again be hosting our annual Easter Egg-Stravaganza event on Saturday, March 30 at the Radium Centre.

The free outdoor egg hunt will begin at 9 a.m. sharp. Follow the signage and keep an eye out for our special guest –the Easter bunny – who will be waiting to greet guests near the starting point

(near Brent’s Shack). Collect and find the coloured eggs as directed, and then bring them back inside to an Egg-Stravaganza volunteer to claim your goodie bag, while supplies last.

We then invite you to join us for crafts, snacks, face painting, and temporary tattoos inside the Radium Centre.

Friends of the Library

The Friends of the Radium Library have a full, exciting lineup of events for you this year.

On the Saturday of the May long weekend, we’re repeating our successful annual yard sale in partnership with the Radium Fire Department and the Radium Rotary Club. And, with spring on the horizon, that means spring cleaning. After you’ve gone through the garage and the attic, if you have household items, toys, tools, and sporting equipment you no longer need, donate

Get set for bookmobile

This week’s column was written by Blair McFarlane, community outreach librarian for the Invermere Public Library. Visit their website or call 250-3426416 for more information.

The Invermere Public Library’s next big project is to start a bookmobile service in the valley.

What is a bookmobile?

A van, truck or bus with bookshelves, WiFi-access, and other features that allow us to bring books and library services to our entire catchment area from Spillimacheen to Canal Flats.

What is our goal?

The acquisition, uplift (adding shelves, checkout station, etc.) and operation of a bookmobile van that will bring books and library services to all community members.

Why a bookmobile?

Not everyone is able to get to our building easily. Seniors, those with mobility constraints, or lack of transportation access, deserve equitable access to library service. In an ongoing survey, 60 per cent of respondents say a bookmobile would increase their library use. Find the survey on our website at invermere.bc.libraries.coop.

We currently do monthly outreach visits to the elementary schools in Canal Flats, Windermere and Edgewater. About 50 per cent of all cardholders in Canal Flats are students who got their membership through this outreach program.

How do we do it?

Our plan is to purchase a Mercedes Sprinter diesel van with a custom uplift.

The Sprinter van is the largest of its

them to us for the sale. We’ll begin accepting items at the beginning of May. And don’t forget to attend on the big day! Bring the kids to meet Randy the Ram, Radium’s mascot, and enjoy the mouth-watering barbecue prepared by volunteer firefighters.

As we move into summer, look for our Pop-up Book Sales during Radium’s Market on Main. And in November, we’ll be holding our fourth annual book sale at the Radium Hot Springs Centre, with great prices on books, games, and crafts.

Deputy Director of Finance

Invermere is a rapidly growing community of approximately 3,800 permanent residents nestled on the shores of Lake Windermere in the Columbia Valley. The District of Invermere is seeking an enthusiastic and experienced individual to become our Deputy Director of Finance. If you enjoy the outdoors and wish to live in a community that offers year-round activities and an incredible quality of life, Invermere is your ideal place to live, work and play.

class, so it’s longer for more books and taller for more head room.

Why gas instead of electric? The diesel model has all-wheel drive to assist with safe winter driving. There will be greater demand for the service when the roads are bad, and we want vehicle reliability to provide the service as consistently and safely as possible.

Bookmobile operation

What will the bookmobile service include? Book borrowing and returns (including hold delivery), free WiFi access wherever the bookmobile is parked, simple tech device assistance, pop-up programming during summer season (storytimes, etc.), school visits, senior housing visits, and tax-filing pick-up/drop-off during tax season.

Service stops will likely be bi-weekly to different communities. Parked at a set location for set times, and home visits as needed will be provided as well.

Radium library is in support of this project and we are actively working on best ways to collaborate. As we are separate entities, the vehicle will have to be owned, registered and insured under one library, but there will be avenues for programming partnership, as well as continued material sharing. We both have the same catchment areas, serving Spillimacheen to Canal Flats, and a bookmobile service will benefit both Invermere and Radium library patrons. You can find their letter of support on The Bookmobile Project page on our website at invermere.bc.libraries.coop/ support-the-library/the-bookmobile-project.

We are actively seeking letters of support, sponsors, and monetary or in-kind donations. Want your name or your company’s name on the bookmobile? Let’s see what we can do. Please contact Blair McFarlane at the library to discuss how you can support this project. Call 250-342-6416 or email publiclibrary@invermere.net

Reporting to the Director of Finance, the Deputy Director of Finance is responsible for and supervising the completion of month-end and year-end accounting procedures including journal entries, reconciliations and adjustments; prepares year-end working papers, schedules, reports and statistics for financial statements, annual reports, and provincial reporting; assist the Director of Finance and the District’s management team with the financial administration of a variety of statutory programs and financial processes; and manages line staff functions within the Finance Department.

The preferred candidate for this position will possess the following or equivalent:

A University Degree

Enrolment in the CPA Professional Education Program

Chartered Professional Accountant (CPA) designation, or significant advancement in the CPA Professional Education Program with completion and designation anticipated.

A minimum of three years of accounting work experience.

Municipal work experience will be considered an asset.

The selected candidate will be expected to possess:

• Knowledge of Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (GAAP), Public Sector Accounting Board (PSAB), and municipal/fund/public accounting.

Proficient with financial accounting software.

Intermediate level knowledge of Excel.

Ability to analyze financial information while maintaining a high degree of accuracy and attention to detail.

Ability to plan, prioritize, and communicate effectively.

Ability to deal tactfully with the public, in person and on the telephone, in a courteous manner.

Ability to communicate effectively with the public, elected officials, other staff including management both verbally and in writing, including reports.

Exceptional attention to details.

Strong interpersonal skills and desire to work in a team-oriented environment.

Excellent organizational, time management, and priority assessment skills including ability to perform effectively while under pressure.

• Proven capability to maintain confidentiality and to exercise a high degree of tact, diplomacy, and discretion.

Ability to defuse sensitive situations in a tactful and professional manner.

Sensitivity to the political and organizational environment.

Salary will be commensurate with experience and education. The pay range for this position will be between $46.70 and $54.94 per hour plus benefits. This is an exempt position, and the Deputy Director of Finance is expected to work 35 hours per week Monday to Friday from 8:30 am to 4:30 pm, some evening work may be required.

A job description for this position is available on the District of Invermere website. Persons interested in applying for this position are invited to submit their resumes by 2:00 pm, Monday, April 22, 2024 to:

District of Invermere

Attn: Kindry Luyendyk, Corporate Officer

Box 339, Invermere, BC, V0A 1K0

Email: corporateservices@invermere.net

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

When Easter is not domesticated

By Brent Woodard Anglican/ United Church

The word “Easter” domesticates the radicalness of what it commemorates – crucifixion and resurrection. Crucifixion was the form of state terrorism that the Roman empire used in the time of Jesus to keep people from rebelling.

It was not used for common criminals. It was reserved for those who threatened, in some way, the legitimacy of the state. Dissenters were hung on crosses in public spaces.

To say it crassly, crucified bodies were billboards communicating the message, “if you threaten the state, this will happen to you.” Sadly, what Jesus did was not a one-off, not by a long shot.

The death of Alexei Navalny on February 16 this year is seen as the result of him being an opposition leader and anti-corruption activist in Russia. Many people who attended his funeral have been put in jail. Some people are now asking “who will be the next Navalny?” That is not a small ask in a country where a person may die for speaking out against injustice and the harm the state is doing to others.

It was 59 years ago this week, on March 21 that marchers set off on their third attempt to walk from Selma, Alabama to the state capital at Montgomery. They were drawing attention to the violence and mur-

der of black people seeking their rights, and to the measures the state had taken to prevent black people from voting. It was consequential to dissent in Alabama 60 years ago.

Apparently, the civil unrest in Iran has now subsided, but it was striking how many people demonstrated after Mahsa Amini was arrested and died in custody on September 16, 2022 for allegedly violating Iran’s mandatory hijab law by wearing her hijab “improperly” while visiting Tehran.

Let’s not domesticate the crucifixion. It’s significant what Jesus did in his context, what other people have done in their contexts, and what could be asked of us depending on the context in which we live.

Resurrection. We domesticate this also when we say it is about fertility symbols like bunnies, or it is about spring after winter, or even if it is just about life after death. Crucified people aren’t just dying. They are being executed so that a system of domination and fear and injustice can continue.

Resurrection may be a sign that these people are not afraid, or that they are awake, or that they are living by another program than the one the totalitarian state wants them to live.

Resurrected people, if I can say it that way, make totalitarian states nervous because they can’t use fear to control them any longer. Resurrected people have awoken to a different centre of their lives, a different identity to who they are, a different purpose to why they are here. Resurrected people can change the world.

Hospice Society supports diversity

Submitted by Bruce Knowlden and Michèle Neider Hospice Society of the Columbia Valley

Hospice’s doors are open to all. We welcome and serve everyone — young and old, sporty and couch potato, cheerful and grumpy, talker and observer, believer and skeptic, loner and social butterfly, quiet and loud, traveller and homebody — no matter who you are and how you choose to be in the world, we are here for you when loss visits. We have the inevitability of death in common.

Hospice care plays a vital role in providing comfort and support to individuals facing life-limiting illness, end of life, or bereavement.

To serve a diverse and multi-faith population seeking our organization’s assistance, it is essential that all services and programs remain secular and cul-

turally sensitive.

Clients and their families hold a wide range of beliefs and values. Volunteers and staff must respect and accommodate individuals from various cultural backgrounds and belief systems.

By respecting different values, hospice services promote inclusivity, autonomy, and a client-centred approach. In doing so, they contribute to the creation of an environment where individuals can face their life challenges and grief with dignity regardless of their affiliations.

If you or a loved one need our services, do not hesitate to call the office at (778) 526-5143 or drop by from noon to 4 p.m., Monday to Friday, at Frater Landing, #103-926 7th Avenue in Invermere. We provide more than end-of-life services. We are here to improve and support quality of life.

Columbia Valley Churches

Hospice Society of the Columbia Valley serves a diverse and multifaith population.

LAKE WINDERMERE ALLIANCE CHURCH

While you are with us, you are always welcome to join us.

Sunday at 10:30 am

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

WINDERMERE VALLEY

SHARED MINISTRY ANGLICAN-UNITED

Minister: Brent Woodard

Sundays at 10:30 am, in-person or on Zoom. For the Zoom link, please visit our website at wvsm.ca. 110 - 7th Ave. in Invermere.

VALLEY CHRISTIAN ASSEMBLY

Pastor: Justin Furse

Sunday 10 a.m. Worship Service 4814 Highway Drive, Windermere 250-342-9511 | www.vcachurch.net

ROMAN CATHOLIC CHURCH

St. Anthony’s, Canal Flats: Saturday, 4 pm

Canadian Martyrs’, Invermere: Saturday 5 pm, Sunday 9 am St. Joseph’s, Radium: Sunday 11 am

Father Francis Dela Cruz | 712 -12th Ave., Invermere 250-342-6167

ST. PETER’S LUTHERAN CHURCH

Sunday 1:30 p.m. Worship Service at Valley Christian 4814 Highway Drive, Windermere lutheranstpeter@gmail.com

RADIUM CHRISTIAN FELLOWSHIP

Sunday 10 a.m. Worship service

Pastor Wayne and Linda Frater | 250-342-6633 #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

CHURCH OF CHRIST (Iglesia ni Cristo)

Worship Service: Sunday 9 a.m., Thursday 7:45 p.m. Chamber of Commerce (Lions Hall)

For inquiries: 250-688-1643 250-270-2208 or 250-688-0629

For more info about the church, you can Google online at incmedia.org or pasugo.com.ph