Columbia Valley Pioneer - April 25, 2024

Some people may consider turkeys as ugly birds, but this guy thinks he’s quite handsome and irresistible to the ladies. At right, a red-breasted robin sits atop a pole where a weathered birdhouse is up for short-term rental. Better check if the proper permits are in place.

PHOTOS

VALLEY NEWS Invermere finally adopts STR rules

By Steve Hubrecht steve@columbiavalleypioneer.com

The District of Invermere’s shortterm rental (STR) regulations are finally in place.

Invermere council members earlier this month adopted the final zoning and Official Community Plan (OCP) amendments, making the district’s new STR rules official.

Invermere has been working toward STR regulations for the better part of two years. Earlier this year the long months of planning and consultation started crystalizing into reality as council began giving initial reading to the various pieces of municipal legislation that collectively make up the new regulation.

The process was completed during the Tuesday, April 9 council meeting, and the new rules are set to take effect on May 1. That has been Invermere’s target date for implementing its STR rules for several months and coincides with the start date of new provincial regulations on STRs (which do not apply to Invermere, since it is a designated resort municipality and since it has a population of under 10,000).

“It is all in place, we are full on,” Invermere Mayor Al Miller told the Pioneer. “It has been long awaited, but now, in many ways the real work begins, when we have people coming forward and start applying (for permits).”

Invermere is taking a two-pronged approach to regulating STRs, using both temporary use permits (TUPs) and business licences. All STR operators will need business licences. Those who operate STRs in parts of Invermere that are not already zoned for STRs (most sin-

gle family residential neighbourhoods do not allow them) need to get TUPs in addition to business licences. Fines for operating an STR illegally (without the necessary permits) begin with a friendly letter for the first infraction and escalate up to $5,000 and referral to provincial court.

When the Pioneer spoke with Miller on Thursday, April 18, the district — to the best of Miller’s knowledge — had not yet received any applications for TUPs or for business licences to operate STRs.

“I know they (district staff) are ready. They’ve had a workshop (on handling applications) and they are ready,” Miller told the Pioneer.

Several residents had, in recent months, expressed concerns about the district’s ability to handle a potential deluge of applications. So far that flood — or even so much as a trickle — has yet to materialize.

But if it does?

“It’s hard to say,” Miller replied. But he quickly added that “we’re certainly in a position to handle a good number of applications.”

Miller said he is very pleased to at last have STR regulations in place, pointing out that when district staff and council members first said several months ago that they wanted the new STR rules ready for May 1, some critics scoffed that the district would never meet such an ambitious timeline.

“But we did it. Obviously we don’t know for sure how it will roll out. It’s brand new territory for us. It’s (dealing with STRs) a big deal not just in the Columbia Valley, but all over the province,” said Miller. “We have something that we feel will work well.”

After many meetings and much consultation with the public, the District of Invermere has officially adopted its short-term rental (STR) regulations.

RCMP REPORT

Don’t fall prey to these scams

By Sgt. Ed deJong Columbia Valley RCMP

On the evening of April 15 the Columbia Valley RCMP responded to a report of a front-end loader rolling down a hill while engulfed in flames. Police attended the Timber Ridge neighbourhood and found a loader with a street sweeper attachment had caught fire, likely due to an electrical issue, and rolled into the ditch. Windemere Fire Department was on scene putting out the fire and environmental mitigation efforts were in effect. No injuries were sustained as a result of the incident.

Columbia Valley RCMP continue to receive calls

about scams and frauds being perpetrated on residents in the valley. These include Publishers Clearing House and CRA frauds, among others. As a reminder, Publishers Clearing House is not active in Canada and Canadians are not eligible to win any of their prizes.

The Canadian Revenue Agency will not call you to obtain information. There are a myriad of other scams being used by unscrupulous actors in Canada and from around the world who attempt to make you believe some action is required immediately. If you receive any unsolicited calls, do not provide any personal information over the phone and hang up.

If you have any concerns the call may have been legitimate, call the local police or a trusted friend and explain the circumstances for a second opinion.

Lake Windermere Pulse Check

Submitted by Lake Windermere

Average Water Temperature: 10.6 °C

Average Water Depth: N/A

Average Turbidity: 2.5 NTU

Average D.O.: 11.1 mg/L

Average pH: 8.3

It snowed on our first cold and wet sampling day of 2024, but we are happy to be back on the lake for a new season.

It was important to sample the lake last week to take phosphorus samples, making sure they were collected within two weeks of ice off (which we recorded on April 4, 2024). Thank you to Jake and the crew from the District of Invermere who delivered the boat to Athalmer boat launch.

We were the only boat on the lake as we made our way to our first stop, the south sampling site. After, we headed back northwards to our middle site, followed finally by our deep north site. Waves were too choppy to allow for

an accurate secchi depth reading.

Thank you to citizen scientist volunteers, Caily and Emma for joining Lake Windermere Ambassadors on this lake excursion.

To join the Ambassadors out on the lake on a Tuesday morning this summer, please call (250) 341-6898 or email us at info@ lakeambassadors.ca

The Lake Windermere Ambassadors would like to thank our funders and collaborators for supporting our programming this coming season.

Radium impresses officials at meeting

By Steve Hubrecht  steve@columbiavalleypioneer.com

The Columbia Valley played host to an important Association of Kootenay and Boundary Local Governments (AKBLG) meeting this past weekend.

The annual convention of municipal and regional officials drew nearly 200 participants to the Village of Radium Hot Springs from April 19 to 21.

“It was amazing. The feedback was great,” said Radium Mayor Mike Gray.

The meeting was a chance to show off Radium, and most of the visitors were impressed, explained Gray. “I was so proud of how our village staff and how our community prepared for it. It went really well.”

Attendees were taken on several tours, getting a glimpse of the Canfor sawmill in Radium, taking a look at Radium’s water system (which taps six glaciers at the upper reaches of Forster Creek and uses sand filtration beds), and visiting several local conservation projects that have been funded by the Columbia Valley Local Conservation Fund.

The sawmill tour was interesting for many participants because “we are a forestry area. The whole AKBLG area is a forestry area. But not every community in the AKBLG has a mill. This gave them a chance to see up close how the forestry industry works,” explained Gray.

The Columbia Valley Local Conservation Fund sites were similarly intriguing, he added. The fund is supported by Regional District of East Kootenay (RDEK) taxes, and gives money to hyper local conservation efforts. Each potential donee is reviewed by a technical committee. Although the dollar amounts

and the scale of projects is small “we’ve seen a huge impact,” said Gray. “When the program started in the Columbia Valley it was unique. Since then it’s been replicated in many areas outside the Columbia Valley. They use our program as a model.”

During the meeting, former Radium mayor Clara Reinhardt was given a lifetime membership in the AKBLG.  “It is in recognition for her years of service to the organization and we were very proud to see her at the event, helping to emcee, as well as receive her induction,” said Gray.

The business part of the meeting saw the AKBLG representatives vote on resolutions of regional and provincial significance. Resolutions approved by a majority of delegates at the meeting will later be brought up at the Union of British Columbia Municipalities (UBCM) convention.

One of the regional resolutions, put forward by the Village of New Denver, was to ask the province to include the Kootenay and Boundary areas in the speculation and vacancy tax. This tax is levied by the provincial government on absentee homeowners and seasonal property owners, and is intended to help turn homes that are vacant for long stretches of the year into long-term housing. It currently only applies in the Lower Mainland, parts of Vancouver Island near Victoria and Nanaimo, and in Kelowna.

“There was a lot of discussion on the resolution,”  AKBLG executive director Linda Tynan told the Pioneer. In the end the resolution was voted down. “It wasn’t a particularly close vote, but it also wasn’t a blowout,” said Tynan, estimating that the vote was roughly two-thirds opposed and one-third in favour.

Continued on page 13

The recent Association of Kootenay and Boundary Local Government (AKBLG) meeting brought nearly 200 elected officials to Radium Hot Springs. At right is former Radium mayor Clara Reinhardt who was inducted as a lifetime member of the AKBLG.

Mental health funds needed

Work boots, high heels or running shoes.

If you were the federal finance minister, what kind of footwear would you buy before tabling the budget?

In this bizarre, long-standing tradition, Chrystia Freeland chose black leather pumps this year to represent the budget. Not sure what kind of statement that conveys . . . fashionable progress? What, no Gene Simmons KISS boots to rock the house?

All silliness aside, the Liberals have announced a $500 million fund to help youth with their mental health needs. This is one of the more promising details in last week’s budget, which has nothing to do with fancy footwear.

Sadly, many of our youth struggle with mental health issues that were exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic. Bullying, self-harm, violence, and depression plagued these kids who felt they had nowhere to turn for help.

Fifteen-year-old Ethan Crumbley from Michigan thought he was at the end of the road when he shot and killed four students at his school in 2021. His journal revealed that his psychological problems caused the Oxford High shooting, adding that he couldn’t get help, especially from his parents who “don’t listen to me.”

In the precedent-setting case, Crumbley’s parents were sentenced to 10 years in prison for what they didn’t do to prevent the tragedy. James and Jennifer Crumbley were reportedly the first parents in the US to be convicted in a mass school shooting.

Although the couple denied any culpability, the court heard they did not act appropriately to their son’s deteriorating mental state. For example, they were accused of not securing a handgun they bought for Ethan as a gift, and for not acting (taking him home) when shown a class drawing he made on the day of the shooting depicting a gun and a wounded character. Later on he pulled the gun out of his backpack and starting shooting students. Ethan continues to serve a life sentence.

It appears that all of the tell-tale signs were there, but nobody noticed; they didn’t even check his backpack on that fateful day.

While gun laws are much stricter in Canada, it doesn’t change the fact that mental health problems are tormenting our children, some to the breaking point. That’s why this new funding will help stop the anguish.

In the meantime, parents can continue supporting their children by telling them how much they are loved and watching for signs of mental deterioration. Youth need to know they are not alone and that there is always help on their darkest of days.

For those suffering, Canada’s suicide crisis helpline is 9-8-8.

Lyonel Doherty, editor

Carbon pricing not great deal

I do believe the rationale for carbon pricing is valid. By increasing the cost of fossil fuels for individuals the aim is to make us think about how we take ourselves from point A to point B with less negative impact on the environment.

Considering alternative methods of transportation, deemed less damaging to the environment is not a bad goal. The rebate is intended to compensate for additional costs incurred towards the goal.

I recall how we cringed when plastic bags in stores were discontinued, yet we have somehow managed to find our way. The goal being less damage to the environment.

When I lived in Vancouver in the mid 90’s there was a “gas tax” implemented for similar reasons. The City of Vancouver, however, had a high functioning public transit system.

Carbon pricing is a sound consideration if you happen to live in an urban area where real alternatives to driving a personal vehicle exist, and for the most

part are practical. Not so for the thousands of rural residents who are pretty much solely dependent on a personal vehicle to go anywhere.

All levels of government abandoned rural Canadians when the Greyhound bus service was allowed to collapse in western Canada. For all the subsidies doled out by all levels of government, to my knowledge, no consideration has been given to the drastic impact the lack of any form of public transit has had on many people in remote, rural communities. Not to mention that not everyone has a personal vehicle, or perhaps for other reasons are unable to drive. This is social negligence.

So, at the end of the day, rural folks end up paying the carbon pricing on fossil fuel, which is essential for their personal vehicles, without having any other transportation alternatives available. And pay we do as the cost of fuel is typically higher in rural areas.

I’ll retire to bedlam.

C. LeBlaca, Columbia Valley

Elk gate leaves calves, residents happy

By Steve Hubrecht  steve@columbiavalleypioneer.com

It’s a wildlife story with a happy ending, for a change: elk calves separated from their mothers by a fence will soon have a gate to get through the barrier.

A group of residents from the Elk Park Ranch development north of Radium Hot Springs noticed that a fence near their neighbourhood was proving an obstacle for elk herds that often passed through the aptly named community. The problem was that while adult elk could easily jump the fence, younger elk and calves could not, causing significant confusion and stress to both calves and their mothers.

“You could see that they were very distressed,” Elk Park Ranch resident Marianne Middelveen told the Pioneer “It clearly wasn’t good for them.”

Fortunately when Middelveen

alerted the landowner to the situation, the landowner immediately agreed to have a gate put in the fence.

It will be a relatively ordinary gate, and if Elk Park Ranch residents observe elk calves stuck on one side of the fence again, they can simply walk up and open the gate, which the elk will then be able to pass through.

“We’d like to put it in very soon” said Middelveen. “Ideally before elk calving season begins.”

In the Rocky Mountains elk calving season typically runs from mid-May through early July. The residents are currently searching for a contractor to professionally install the gate.

Middelveen and her neighbours were full of praise for the landowner’s efforts to help the wildlife. They expressed hope that other landowners will follow this example, and they pointed out that there are many other similar situations

up and down the Columbia Valley.

“Hopefully this brings more awareness to the issue,” Middelveen told the Pioneer.  “All across North America there’s millions of miles of fences that create barriers, and that has a big cumulative impact on wildlife.”

Fellow Elk Park Ranch resident Margot McMaster agrees.

“If more people realized just how obstructive fences are to wildlife migration, there might be more focus on helping wildlife get around these barriers. The more the valley gets populated, the more we encroach on migratory paths.

And we can do something about it. We don’t always have to put up barriers. And when we do put up barriers, there are options to make it easier for wildlife to get past them.”

Aside from gates, Middelveen and McMaster outlined options such as having the bottom strand of a fence be at

least 18 inches above the ground, so that most ungulates can pass undernieth; or using fencing that does not have paige wire with barbs.

Columbia-Kootenay Conservation Office Sgt. Greg Kruger told the Pioneer that fencing is indeed a controversial issue in the Columbia Valley and across B.C. One of the biggest reasons people put up fences, which do block wildlife, is to protect high-value agricultural crops from wildlife (such as elk and deer) that may otherwise eat it, he explained.

“Elk and deer are very good at finding food sources, and high-value agricultural crops are a good food source,” Kruger told the Pioneer. “Unfortunately they can significantly damage a farmer’s crop.”

He noted the B.C. Ministry of Agriculture has a program that compensates farmers who do not fence their lands for crops lost to elk and deer.

Invermere, Radium top up CVHS funds

By Steve Hubrecht  steve@columbivalleypioneer.com

Earlier this year, as reported in the Pioneer, the Regional District of East Kootenay (RDEK) voted to fund the Columbia Valley Housing Society (CVHS) — but only half the amount the society had sought.

The CVHS had asked for $50,000 in funding, but after debate the RDEK opted to give the society $25,000 — which is the same amount the RDEK had given the CVHS in 2023. Some RDEK directors from the Columbia Valley had spoken in favour of giving the CVHS its full ask, while others had noted there are other options to fund the CVHS.

Now the District of Invermere and Village of Radium Hot Springs have decided to “top up” the RDEK’s funding for the CVHS, with Invermere kicking in $25,000 and Radium giving $10,000 as a discretionary grant-in-aid.

“Invermere council was disappointed that the RDEK board did not agree to provide the CVHS with their full request for financial support in the region’s 2024 budget,” said Invermere Mayor Al Miller. “In order to ensure the CVHS is able to continue its important work, the District of Invermere and the Village of Radium Hot Springs are offsetting the funding gap left by the RDEK.”

Radium Hot Springs Mayor Mike Gray said the CVHS has accomplished so much in its first year, “and I believe it is for the benefit of our residents to ensure this group is funded, not only to help in Radium but across the Columbia Valley. Radium council is pleased to support the society and work to help address the housing needs in our community.”

Miller told the Pioneer that he, Invermere council and Mayor Gray feel that it (the $50,000 funding ask by the CVHS) was not a huge request. “Hous-

ing is such a big issue here. We really don’t want to see the head of the CVHS spending a lot of his time trying to find funding to keep the organization going. We want him to spend his time continuing the great work he’s begun,” Miller continued. “We’re feeling the housing crunch every day. We have people coming to us and telling us their horror stories . . . we can’t afford a slow down. That’s the reason we decided to do this (top up).”

Miller diplomatically said he understands the other RDEK directors had valid reasons for not voting to support the full $50,000 request, “but you could see he (CVHS executive director Bill Kirkpatrick) was deflated after . . . if he has to chase funding to keep the CVHS operating, that makes things more difficult. That’s time he’s not spending on housing solutions. And we need housing solutions.”

RDEK Area G director Roberta

Schnider and Area F director Susan Clovechok spoke to the Pioneer and both explained that they very much support the CVHS’s efforts, but feel there are other sources that funding can come from.

“The ask from the CVHS this year ($50,000) was double what they had asked for last year ($25,000). In Area G we have embarked on a redevelopment hub in Edgewater that requires tax dollars and there is only so much to go around. Part of this hub includes housing, which we will engage the CVHS,” explained Schnider. “Further, my decision to support the same amount of funding for the CVHS was also driven by the fact that there are dollars that will be used from the (Invermere-Panorama) Municipal Regional District Tax (MRDT) as stated in their report to the RDEK board . . . using this tax stream makes more sense to me than using tax dollars from our residents.”

Residents of Elk Park Ranch are delighted that the situation shown here, with elk calves separated from their mothers by a fence, will soon be remedied by a gate.

Snowpack series wraps up with donation

Avalanche risk still exists in the alpine

By Steve Hubrecht  steve@columbiavalleypioneer.com

The State of the Snowpack speaker series has wrapped up for the year, and series co-organizer and Playwest Mountain Experience owner Chris Skinner donated money raised during the events to Columbia Valley Search and Rescue (CVSAR).

Skinner and Shannen Eis (also from Playwest) recently presented a cheque for $2,500 to CVSAR members Dave Hubbard and George Field. That money came from 50-50 draws held during each State of the Snowpack night throughout the winter.

The speaker series is a collaborative effort that sees local professional guides, Panorama Mountain Resort ski patrollers, and a representative from Avalanche Canada discuss the Columbia Valley’s snowpack and local avalanche risks with any interested member of the public.

“The premise is that Avalanche Canada is doing a tremendous job with their avalanche risk forecasts, but those forecasts are often very wide-reaching and often general. The State of the Snowpack series is an attempt to be

much more specific to our immediate area,” Skinner told the Pioneer. “It’s people who are working in the alpine in our area, checking the snow constantly, sharing what they are seeing with the public.”

The series began with one event in late November, followed by three more in December, another two in January, and one a month each in February, March and April.

Skinner emphasized that even though the State of the Snowpack series is over, avalanche risk remains in the alpine areas of the Columbia Valley.

“There is still a lot of winter left up in the mountains. It may be spring in the valley bottom, but up high there is a lot of snow. Now is not the time to be complacent,” Skinner said.

Spring can often be a bad time for avalanches, because warm temperatures, especially later in the days, affect the snowpack and how it is bonded.

“If you are heading out into the backcountry at this time of year, it is recommended to not only start super early, but make sure you also finish super early, before the sun and the daytime temperatures have a chance to wake up deep lying slab problems,” said Skinner.

This year, as far as Skinner knows, there have been no avalanche-related fatalities in the Columbia Valley, unlike last winter when there were two ma-

jor incidences — one in March, which killed three skiers in a group with RK Heliski, and another in April, which killed a snowmobiler in the Forster Creek area.

Still it’s been a challenging winter in terms of avalanche risk, explained Skinner. There has been a persistent problem deep within the snowpack, as well as some shallower slab problems in the Columbia Valley, he said, adding “it’s made it fairly complex.”

Most State of the Snowpack events drew close to 100 participants. The final

one, held on April 4, drew 40 or 50 participants, but Skinner surmised the low numbers that night were due, at least in part, to the public hearing on the proposed affordable housing-Columbia Valley Métis Association office development, which was held the same night.

Even with participant numbers only half their normal levels, the 50-50 draw on April 4 was a big success, with more than $1,000 of the total $2,500 donation raised that night.

Shannen Eis and Chris Skinner (left) from Playwest Mountain Experience present a $2,500 donation to Columbia Valley Search and Rescue members Dave Hubbard and George Field. The money was raised from 50-50 draws during State of the Snowpack events held throughout the winter.

PHOTO SUBMITTED

Student cell phone restrictions on the way

By Lyonel Doherty editor@columibavalleypioneer.com

Come September, students in the Rocky Mountain district will find new restrictions on their use of cell phones in schools.

On April 9 the board of trustees reviewed first reading of its refined code of conduct for students, which includes cell phone restrictions as part of the Ministry of Education’s mandate to limit the use of digital devices in all BC schools.

Along with rules relating to alcohol and drugs, and disruptive behaviour, the code will highlight digital devices and communication as well.

Steve Wyer, acting superintendent of schools, told the Pioneer they are starting the consultation process to determine what the policy will look like.

“The use of personal digital devices in schools will be restricted from interrupting learning,” he said, noting it is important for students to learn responsible and balanced ways to use these devices.

Wyer said individual schools will review their codes of conduct to include specific information on how digital devices, including cell phones, are restricted to “promote sustained and uninterrupted periods of classroom learning.”

The assistant superintendent noted these restrictions will look different depending on the school. For example, in a K-3 setting, schools will have very different types of restrictions than an 8-12 setting.

Wyer acknowledged that not many students in the younger grades have cell phones, adding that schools provide most of the digital devices that pupils need for learning.

“I do agree that teens are spending too much time on their phones, especially during school and class time.”

Keira Neal, student

“That’s why there should be some flexibility for the type of school to have slightly different rules and practices.”

Under the refined code of conduct, it states that students will be responsible for storing and securing their digital devices if they choose to bring them to school.

Wyer said the conversations in school communities will seek to maintain all the ways digital devices support learning, inclusion, and student engagement, while also ensuring these same devices do not distract from learn-

ing.

“Ultimately, the district strives to raise responsible digital citizens through teaching about the responsible use of personal technology,” he said.

Keira Neal, a student at David Thompson Secondary School, has mixed feelings about the new restrictions.

“I do agree that teens are spending too much time on their phones, especially during school and class time, but they are definitely a useful tool as well.”

Neal said going to the library signing out books to search for answers while working on a project during class takes a lot of time as opposed to pulling out your phone and surfing the web for quick answers.

“Math, biology, and socials are three subjects that I find having my phone on me has been helpful,” she pointed out. “During my spare time I will watch quick Youtube videos on whatever lesson we have done to help me better understand.”

Neal said lots of visual learners do this as a study strategy. But she stated that if students get used to not having phones at school she hopes it will help them be less addicted in general.

Local parent Christine DuBois told the Pioneer she fully supports the new restrictions.

She personally has no problem with students using their cell phones to check messages during their breaks or lunch hour.

“My belief is that if somebody is standing in front of you, you put away your cell phone and you talk to a real life human being. Our kids are missing out on essential social skills because their head is buried in a device half the time.”

DuBois said children need to be learning in school, adding that cell phones are not only disruptive but also cause big problems socially for students.

She noted a perfect example is a classroom discussion or a group project where some students have their heads buried in their phones and not participating. Or they will be doing all of their research on their phone as opposed to discussing ideas with their peers.

“How are our children going to learn to be good leaders and good presenters and good communicators when they spend that much time in front of a device? I am shocked the number of times I see a group of kids walking together and all of them have their heads down on their phones.”

DuBois commended teachers who take their students’ phones and put them in a basket at the start of class. She reiterated that if parents need to contact their child they can call the office.

OUT OF OFFICE… Forget Winter, Summer is Coming!

This is the time of year when many tourism and hospitality businesses in the Columbia Valley are preparing for the busy times. Busy times mean busy people and the only way to manage busy is by perfecting cloning technol… no, wait, by finding people to help you. This means hiring season is upon us! Now, we all know that finding the right people to represent your business and fill the roles you need is a challenge, but there are other pitfalls to navigate as well, some you might not even be aware of! This is where go2HR comes in; they are a Human Resources resource for… humans.

Sarah Moseley, CPHR, is the Kootenay Rockies Regional HR consultant for go2HR and she lives right here in the Columbia Valley - she is happy to help answer any questions you might have, and, along with the Columbia Valley Chamber of Commerce, Sarah will present the first (of a series) of HR related seminars. On May 2nd, at 11:00am-12:00pm Sarah will be going over Hiring and Onboarding Best Practices (specifically in a tight labour market such as our

own). The rest of the series will include a focus on mental wellness in the workplace as well as other relevant HR topics including up-to-date Kootenay Rockies regional data and statistics regarding statistics.

This information session will focus on the very first steps of the employment process, including the in’s and out’s of legislation surrounding hiring and onboarding from locally relevant authorities including BC Employment Standards, BC Human Rights Code and WorkSafeBC. Once you have crossed the t’s and dotted the i’s regarding legislation, using a recruitment strategy to find and attract the people that you need is next on the list. Need tips on interviewing and why a structured process that is connected to a job description is optimal (you do have a job description, right?)? Once you have that perfect person for that perfectly described job, the next step is onboarding to minimize the time needed to get your new hire up-to-speed and keep them there (retention is vital!).

As tricky as the labour market is right now, there are bound to be mistakes - learn what the common ones are so that they aren’t made by you. And last, but certainly not least, Sarah will be on hand to answer any questions that you might have, and to help navigate the (sometimes) murky HR waters. Learn from the best - you can’t know everything in the rapidly changing world of employment legislation, so let the pros help you do it right!

Register at cvchamber.com to take advantage of this free seminar - and please let us know what sort of burning HR questions you have - it might be the subject of our next session! Can’t wait to see you here at the Chamber Offices/Lions Hall on May 2. Once you have learned the HR tools you need, remember that the next networking night (Chamber Connections) will be on May 14th at Coys Par 3 in Fairmont - see you then!

-Deanna Berrington

Thursday, April 25

• 9:00am-3:00pm: HPSC’s Retrofitting with ‘A House as a System’ Approach. Columbia Valley Chamber Offices/Lions Hall. Join us for an introduction to retrofitting with a whole-home approach to create better homes for your clients and to grow your business. Upon successful completion, this course is eligible for 4 Continuing Professional Development (CPD) Points through BC Housing. Event is free of charge but you must pre-register. For more info and to register, visit: https://bit.ly/3xLsNSH

• 5:30pm-7:30pm: Come Cook With Me. College of the Rockies Invermere Campus. Free. Cooking for families.  Learn recipes and cooking tips while making healthy, budget-friendly meals.  All supplies provided. Registration required: CBAL – wvcoordinator@cbal.org or 250-409-4251

• 10:00am-2:00pm: Pickleball. Invermere Curling Club. Drop in.

• 10:15am-1:00pm: Tech Tutors. Invermere Public Library

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

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

• 1:00pm-3:00pm: Pickleball. Invermere Curling Club. Skills & Drills #2

• 2:00pm-3:00pm: Seniors Tea. Invermere Public Library. Join us for a cup of tea and a chat on the 2nd & 4th Thursday of each month. All welcome!

• 2:00pm-4:00pm: Tech Tutors. Radium Public Library

Free one-on-one help with your computer, phone or tablet!  Assistance with websites or electronic forms.  Learn about games on your phone or iPad.  Please book an appointment with the library you would like to attend. By Columbia Basin Alliance for Literacy.

• 6:30pm-7:30pm: Newcomer & Community Connection Café Invermere Library. Meet new people, learn about other cultures, create a craft and share life experiences.  Free program.  All are welcome.

• 6:30pm-8:30pm: Pickleball. Invermere Curling Club. Advanced Round Robin.

• 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, April 26

• 10:00am-2:00pm: Pickleball. Invermere Curling Club. Drop in.

• 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!

• 6:30pm-8:30pm: Pickleball. Invermere Curling Club. Open Play.

Saturday, April 27

• 9:00am-2:00pm. Lake Windermere District Lions Club Garage Sale Lions Hall 651 Hwy 93/95. Campground Tours.

• 10:00am-2:00pm: Pickleball. Invermere Curling Club. Drop in.

• 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, April 28

• 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, April 29

• 10:00am-2:00pm: Pickleball. Invermere Curling Club. Drop in.

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

• 2:00pm-4:00pm: Little Explorers. Kinsmen Beach. Outdoor learning for children ages 2 - 6 and caregivers. Siblings welcome! Ageappropriate learning about our natural surroundings - nature walks, hunts, games and crafts. Come prepared to have fun outdoors and get dirty.  Dress appropriately for the weather! Registration is required: wvcoordinator@cbal.org or 250-409-4251.

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

• 6:30pm-8:30pm: Pickleball. Invermere Curling Club. Novice.

Tuesday, April 30

• 3:00pm-5:00pm: Seniors’ Game Days. Invermere Seniors’ Hall. Come out to the Invermere Seniors' Hall for an afternoon of playing board games and connecting!  Snacks and beverages will be provided.  This is a free event and pre-registration is encouraged: wvcoordinator@cbal.org or call/text 250-409-4251.

• 7:00pm-8:00pm: The Acronaires – Acrobat Show! Columbia Valley Centre. The Acronaires (from Burman University) now in their 50th year, combine acrobatics, gymnastics and comedy in an exciting performance that will be enjoyed by the whole family! Free to attend, donations will be accepted! Doors open at 6:30pm, show starts at 7pm! This event is in partnership with the District of Invermere.

• 10:00am-2:00pm: Pickleball. Invermere Curling Club. Drop in.

• 10:30am-11:30am: Homeschool Meetup. Drop-in, all-ages programming with open-ended STEAM play, group activities and art projects. A chance for homeschool kids and families to get together!

• 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. Practice at Invermere Catholic Church Annex. For info please email dalvande@ shaw.ca

• 6:30pm-8:30pm: Pickleball. Invermere Curling Club. Skills & Drills #1

• 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, May 1

• 7:00pm-8:45pm: Invermere Community Drum Circle. Pynelogs. Professionally facilitated, participants will learn about and experiment with different drums and drumming techniques from all around the world. You'll experience a fun and inclusive drumming workshop, but that's only the beginning! Please text if you intend to stop by to experience the magic! +1-250-409-4110. rhythmbynature.ca

• 10:00am-2:00pm: Pickleball. Invermere Curling Club. Drop in.

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

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

• 3:00pm-4:30pm: After School Club. Invermere Library. A window of transition time between school and home or extra-curriculars. Come colour, bead, play with LEGO and catch up with friends! Open to all school-aged kids and teens. Drop-off allowed for Grade 2 students and up. Younger kids are welcome with a grown-up. Please bring your own snacks! Register. https://invermere.bc.libraries.coop/

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

• 6:30pm-8:30pm: Pickleball. Invermere Curling Club. Ladies Night

A Day in the Life

Five-generation granny embraces family

By Lyonel Doherty editor@columbiavalleypioneer.com

If you’re looking for the secret to longevity, just rub shoulders a bit with Fern Oglestone, a 95-year-old grandmother of five generations.

Hot porridge, fruit and, don’t tell anybody . . . a beer a day keeps Fern as spry as anyone in Invermere where she lives on her own, but in truth, is never alone, what with six grandchildren, eight great grandkids, and three greatgreat grandchildren to keep her busy.

“Just enjoying life, travelling lots, socializing, and staying active,” she told the Pioneer, hinting that the lager (in moderation) is indeed the special formula.

Like many matriarchs, Fern loves to tell stories to her grandchildren. “I like to tell them about my childhood, places I’ve worked and lived. I will tell them anything if they are wanting to listen.”

She grew up in Chauvin, Alberta in 1929.

“Growing up in the dirty 30s, no one had much money,” Fern said, adding that she and her four younger brothers had plenty of chores such as tending the garden and milking the cows.

Her grandparents lived on the Saskatchewan border about seven miles from Chauvin, which gave her a good excuse to visit them on horseback quite often.

“Growing up, my mom made all our clothes from scratch. Women didn’t work (outside the home), they did housework and looked after the children,” she said. Her father travelled between towns buying horses that were shipped via train to Ontario.

Her first real job at the age of 12 was working at the movie theatre on Saturdays; like in the movies, she recalled showing people to their seats with a

flashlight. At 15, she travelled to Banff by train to visit relatives. While there, she worked at the Mount Royal Hotel doing laundry.

Fern married George Oglestone in 1949 (in her grandparent’s living room), two years after they met in Banff. He was working for Parks Canada at the time. They later had three children, Carol Robideau, born in 1950, Ken Oglestone, born in 1952, and Howie Oglestone in 1958. The family moved to Lake Louise in 1955 when all three kids were educated in a one-room schoolhouse that accommodated pupils from Grade 1-9. There was no kindergarten back then, Fern said.

The family often visited Windermere on holidays, pitching tents at Dean’s Beach. They eventually bought property by the lake in Invermere in 1978 and built a house there a year later.

Fern often reminisces about growing up on the farm, especially working with the horses. Every time she sees a horse today, her mental time machine starts whirring and takes her back to her youth.

“Marrying George was one of my best memories. And of course, having my three children will always be my best memories; they’ve given me grandkids, great grandkids and great-great grandkids into my life which has brought me so much joy.”

Needless to say, Fern has seen a lot of changes over the decades.

“It’s sad seeing the youths’ moms working so much and sad seeing the kids be brought up by other people. Kids never have chores nowadays which is weird to see as we didn’t have playdates or sleepovers as kids. We’d come home and start working on the farm right away. We had no electricity . . . we had coal/oil lamps that we had to clean every morning so they were ready for the

At 95, Fern Oglestone is proud to represent five generations of her family, and she just loves being a grandma.

night. I grew up as the oldest, so I was like a second mom in the family.”

Perhaps the biggest change Fern has noticed is the “cool” modes of transportation now, such as airplanes and cruise ships.

Today, Fern loves to socialize with family and friends. Hallmark movies are her favourite shows to watch on TV because they “leave you feeling good.”

If Fern had a real time machine, she would whisk herself back to 1949 when

she married George. “It was such a fun time in my life. We square danced so much, for over 20 years. George was a caller and all my children danced and even some of my grandkids.”

The next time you pass over Oglestone Creek on Westside Road, you’ll know where the name came from — George’s uncle, Harry Oglestone, who owned a ranch in the area. Just another piece of family history that Fern will always cherish.

Fern is never truly alone since she has so many loving family members, including grandchildren and great-grandchildren. At right is Fern and George on their wedding day in 1949.

PHOTO SUBMITTED

PHOTOS SUBMITTED

Radium hosts AKBLG meet

Continued from page 5

The other regional resolution asked the provincial government to consider providing ground transportation between the Kootenay and Boundary area and Kelowna for medical patients referred to Kelowna for treatment. Up until about seven or eight years ago, it was relatively common for East Kootenay patients to be referred to doctors in Calgary if they needed specialized medical help. For reasons that are still not clear, that situation changed dramatically, with patients now referred to Kelowna instead. This change has not been popular in the East Kootenay, as it leaves people driving many hours and hundreds of kilometres in each direction, over high mountain passes, for medical appointments. That resolution was passed handily, said Tynan.

Among the provincial resolutions was one asking the provincial government to allocate more funding to monitor and prevent the spread of zebra and quagga mussels. This passed with nearly 100 per cent of delegates in favour.

Another resolution sought to change regional district legislation to give municipalities nearby a proposed rezoning a more heavily weighted vote than those municipalities farther away (but still within the same regional district). This resolution did not pass. The vote on it “was somewhat close, but not nail bitingly so,” said Tynan.

Position: Utilities Clerk 1 Department: Finance Status: CUPE - Regular Full Time Classification: Clerk

The District of Invermere has an opening for a Utility Clerk 1 position in the Finance Department which is a full-time position consisting of 35 hours per week.Reporting to the Director of Finance, the position assists in ensuring the financial solvency of the corporation by implementing systems, collecting utility fees, ensuring accurate payments on accounts, and providing exceptional customer service.

Under the general supervision of the Director of Finance, the Utility Clerk coordinates and maintains effective records and systems to support the issuance of utilities invoices, collections, and the issuance of receipts in accordance with the District’s bylaws and procedures. The Utilities Clerk also prepares reports and remittances associated with the above, assists with annual audit requirements, and assists with front counter inquiries and provides general clerical support to other departments. Applicants interested in applying for this position must possess the following skills and abilities:

SPECIFIC DUTIES:

Ensure accuracy of invoices, receipts, and adjustments.

Apply monthly penalties (when required).

Ensure collection of all outstanding utility invoices.

Ensure coordination and accuracy of water meter readings.

• Use and maintain applicable software program to remotely read water meters.

Update ownership and/or address information.

Provide utility billing information to customers.

Maintain direct debit list for payment of utilities.

• Ensure work orders are submitted to Public Works & Operations staff for utility accounts. Follow up on all work orders with Public Works & Operations staff.

Create utility billing adjustments when required, for approval by the Supervisor.

Prepare daily bank deposits.

• Process accounts receivable for business licenses.

Serve as point of contact for accounts receivable for utilities inquiries.

Maintain building permit, business license, and cemetery records for the District using VADIM software.

Provide back-up support to other office functions as required.

Perform other duties as assigned.

Applicants interested in applying for this position must possess the following skills and abilities: Two years or more of recent experience in an administrative support role.

Proficiency with Microsoft Office suite and Adobe.

Considerable knowledge of administrative practices, procedures, and standard protocols.

Basic knowledge of accounting practices and procedures, and functional competency in same.

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

Ability to communicate effectively in writing, including the preparation of reports and a wide variety of correspondence. Exceptional atention to detail.

Ability to work independently with minimal supervision, as well as working in a team environment.

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

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

This position is within C.U.P.E. 2982 bargaining unit. The current wage rate for this position falls within the range of $33.01 - $33.96 per hour plus benefits as detailed in the Collective Agreement. The Utility Clerk position is expected to work 35 hours per week Monday to Friday from 8:30 am to 4:30 pm.

A job description for this position is available at www.invermere.net

Persons interested in applying for this position are invited to submit their resumes by 2:00 pm on Tuesday, May 21st, 2024 to:

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

Many speakers touched on numerous topics during the AKBLG meeting in Radium Hot Springs last weekend.

SUBMITTED

Resident-directed grant proposals submitted

Columbia Valley Pioneer staff

A number of resident-directed grant proposals have been submitted to make life better in the East Kootenay region.

A recent community meeting at Columbia Valley Centre outlined the annual proposals in detail, ahead of the decision-making process in June by the Regional District of East Kootenay (RDEK).

Project summaries for grant proposals in Electoral Area F and G include:

• Bright New Minds Child Care Society ($7,582 for early years speech and language enrichment pilot program)

• Christmas Bureau of the Columbia Valley ($30,000 for the less fortunate)

• Columbia Valley Rockies Booster Society ($20,000 to expand and relocate

Bull Riding in the Rockies to permanent location)

• Family Dynamix ($11,840 for youth programs)

• Hospice Society of the Columbia Valley ($22,289 for hospital volunteer visits)

• Kootenay Livestock Association ($10,000 for agriculture education program for students)

NOTICE OF SHORT-TERM RENTAL TEMPORARY USE PERMIT APPLICATIONS UNDER RDEK STAFF DELEGATED CONSIDERATION

Pursuant to Section 494 of the Local Government Act, public notice is

• Meant 2B Loved Pet Rescue Society ($206,000 to expand trap-neuter-return program)

• Wilmer Community Club ($23,000 to replace old, condemned community ice rink)

• Windermere Valley Youth Centre Society ($162,472 for the third edition of the Youth Roots Magazine)

• Peaks Gymnastics ($28,000)

- 24 Ave S in Cranbrook, BC.

All persons who believe they are affected by any of the Short-Term Rental Temporary Use Permits are encouraged to submit their concerns in writing to the RDEK office at 19 - 24 Ave S. Cranbrook, BC or by email to planningdept@rdek.bc.ca prior to 4:30 pm on May 3, 2024. All submissions should include your name and address. Please be advised that any written submissions will become part of public record. The notices are available for viewing by email request, on the RDEK website (www.rdek.bc.ca/meetings_events/publichearings) or at the RDEK Offices between the hours of 8:30 am and 4:30 pm, Monday to Friday, excluding statutory holidays. To search for properties online, visit: www.rdek.bc.ca/departments/mapping.

For more information contact the RDEK Planning Department, at 250-489-2791 or by email at planningdept@rdek.bc.ca.

All written submissions are public information pursuant to the Freedom of Information and Protection of Privacy Act. All submissions will form part of the public record. Questions about the disclosure of your personal information may be referred to the Corporate Officer at 250-489-2791 or 1-888-478-7335.

NOTICE – BYLAW AMENDMENT – Housing Statutes (Residential Development) Act & Secondary Suite Regulations Bylaws

The Regional District of East Kootenay (RDEK) Board of Directors is considering bylaw amendments to meet the requirements of the Housing Statutes (Residential Development) Act (the Act). The Act implemented changes known as the Small Scale Multi-Unit Housing (SSMUH) legislation. The SSMUH legislation amended the Local Government Act to include a requirement that all residential zones permit an increase in density of a minimum of one secondary suite per parcel for all zones that only permit single family residential development. Amendments to all zoning bylaws to comply with the SSMUH legislation must be adopted by June 30, 2024. In addition to the required SSMUH changes, the RDEK Board of Directors has authorized amendments to the secondary suite regulations of the eight zoning bylaws to align with Provincial guidance on SSMUH site standards and the BC Building Code regulation of secondary suites within principal dwelling units. The proposed bylaw amendments will:

• Allow a secondary suite within a principal dwelling unit in all zones which are considered to be restricted zones under the Act, e.g. all zones that only permitted one single family dwelling only.

• Remove the 90 m2 cap for the maximum size of secondary suites located within a principal dwelling unit.

• Increase the size of secondary suites to 49% of the habitable space of the principal dwelling unit.

• Expand the types of dwelling units within which a secondary suite may be contained, e.g. rowhouse or duplex.

Decrease the side or interior setback adjacent to other parcel boundaries where the requirement was 1.5 m on smaller urban sized parcels, e.g. 1670 m2

The proposed zoning bylaw amendments will affect the zoned areas of the RDEK as follows:

Electoral Area A Bylaw No. 3313 – Regional District of East Kootenay - Elk Valley Zoning Bylaw No. 829, 1990 – Amendment Bylaw No. 114, 2024 (SSMUH / RDEK)

Electoral Area B Bylaw No. 3314 – Regional District of East Kootenay – South Country Zoning & Floodplain Management Bylaw No. 2320, 2011 – Amendment Bylaw No. 42, 2024 (SSMUH / RDEK)

Bylaw No. 3315 – Regional District of East Kootenay – SweetWater Zoning & Floodplain Management Bylaw No. 2127, 2009 – Amendment Bylaw No. 12, 2024 (SSMUH / RDEK)

Electoral Area C Bylaw No. 3309 – Regional District of East Kootenay – Steeples Zoning & Floodplain Management Bylaw No. 2615, 2015 – Amendment Bylaw No. 10, 2024 (SSMUH / RDEK)

Bylaw No. 3310 – Regional District of East Kootenay – Electoral Area C South Zoning & Floodplain Management Bylaw No. 2913, 2019 – Amendment Bylaw No. 25, 2024 (SSMUH / RDEK)

Bylaw No. 3311 – Regional District of East Kootenay – Wycliffe Zoning & Floodplain Management Bylaw No. 2256, 2010 – Amendment Bylaw No. 16, 2024 (SSMUH / RDEK)

Electoral Area E Bylaw No. 3312 – Regional District of East Kootenay – Electoral Area E Zoning & Floodplain Management Bylaw No. 2502, 2014 – Amendment Bylaw No. 44, 2024 (SSMUH / RDEK)

Electoral Area F & Electoral Area G Bylaw No. 3316 – Regional District of East Kootenay – Columbia Valley Zoning Bylaw No. 3255, 2023 – Amendment Bylaw No. 11, 2024 (SSMUH / RDEK)

Public Hearing Not Required – Section 464(4) of the Local Government Act states that a local government must not hold a public hearing on a zoning bylaw proposed for the sole purpose of complying with section 481(3) (zoning bylaws and Small-Scale Multi-Unit Housing (SSMUH)). The bylaw amendments to add secondary suite as a permitted use in restricted zones and associated siting amendments are required to comply with these Provincial requirements.

Section 464(2) of the Local Government Act states that a local government is not required to hold a public hearing for a proposed zoning bylaw amendment if an official community plan is in effect for the area that is the subject of the zoning bylaw, and the bylaw is consistent with the official community plan.

As the proposed amendments to changes in secondary suite size and location are consistent with applicable OCPs, a public hearing is not required to be held.

Board Consideration of the Bylaws – Amendments to all zoning bylaws to comply with the SSMUH legislation must be adopted by June 30, 2024. The eight Bylaws will be considered for 1st, 2nd & 3rd readings by the RDEK Board of Directors on May 10, 2024. If the bylaws are introduced, they will be forwarded to the Ministry of Transportation and Infrastructure for approval prior to being considered for adoption in June.

Public Comment Period & Submissions – If you believe that your interest in property is affected by the proposed Bylaws, you may:

• inspect a Bylaw and supporting information by requesting that an information package be emailed to you by contacting kmacleod@rdek.bc.ca. Information packages may be requested up until Friday, April 26, 2024 at 4:30 pm.

• mail or email written submissions to the addresses shown below before Tuesday April 30, 2024 at 4:30 pm. Please clearly indicate the zoning bylaw or impacted community your written submission is applicable to.

SUBMISSIONS CANNOT BE ACCEPTED AFTER THE DEADLINE.

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 Karen MacLeod, Planning Supervisor at 250-489-0313 or toll free at 1-888-478-7335 or email kmacleod@rdek.bc.ca.

SPORTS

WVMHA celebrates another great season

Submitted

As with the start of the first frosty mornings of the year come the start of every hockey season in Windermere Valley.

We had over 150 kids sign up for the season with ages of five year olds new to skating and eager to have fun to Grade 12s ready to graduate from both minor hockey and school.

The thing that unites every player is regardless if you are at EMP, or Laird, Windermere, Edgewater, Canal Flats, or DTSS, you can always pick out the hockey kids wearing their Rockies logo across all ages.

The U7 season was one of growth and development as hockey is introduced to the kids. Coach Jean Bourbeau led a dedicated coaching group that helped develop some raw skaters into hockey players creating a love of the game that will last a lifetime. Highlights included a fun home tournament and braving the elements of the Marysville tournament.

The U9 team had an excellent season. Moving from U7 to U9 the kids learned edge work and team play from Coach Jason Botterill and his coaching team. Highlights included the Whitefish tournament as the kids had the opportunity to visit the USA and play against some high level competition.

The U11B team finished the season with an amazing 7-3-3 record with some amazing development from first time hockey players. Coach Botterill led a veteran group in teaching kids the fundamentals of full ice hockey and what offside means.

The U11A team led by Coach George Pemberton finished the year with a record of 8-4-2 with highlights being our home tournament runner up and the Castlegar tournament where kids were given the task of playing against NHL superstar Duncan Keith's Penticton team.

Our U13 team finished the year with a surreal 15-1 record with highlights of going to Whitefish and Salmon Arm. Led by coach Steve Bush the team as he quoted "learned to pass" which is

gether as a team to develop into a really good squad. Highlights included hosting the Banner Tournament in Invermere which is always a cool event to host.

Our U18s led by Coach Carl Kinsey had a different, but fun year on the ice. Manager Justin Stanbury worked tirelessly in conjunction with Golden minor hockey and Elk Valley minor hockey to create teams to play in some really enjoyable tournaments.

The season concluded with our awards ceremony on April 10 where we handed out our yearly accolades to players, coaches and volunteers, as well as a whole bunch of trophies for our little rockies from U7 to U11. It's also a time to recognize players graduating from minor hockey this year including Connor Brooks, Sahara Eccles, Maggie Sheltgen, Mackenna O'Connor, and Keira Neal.

Hockey isn't just a game, it’s a journey for both player and parent. Your first day starts at the arena and you might not know anyone there, but by the end of the journey you have made lifelong friends who have taken the journey with you. Kids from all backgrounds learn to play the game together and have fun doing it. The culture it creates is one of friendship and teamwork. From cheering on the kids from the stands, to scheduling carpools, coffee runs, to mini stick games in hotel hallways, it's a part of who we are and the development of not only the kids as players, but in life as a part of a team. It's a community where all are welcome, and we support each other and the game the kids love to play.

Special thanks to the volunteers, the managers who do so much behind the scenes, and the parents who make this all happen.

Registration for the 2024-25 season will begin in May and the season will begin in September. Hope to see everyone there and some new faces to join the fun.

The following are the awards:

Most Sportsmanlike Player

U13 - Bryan Wood

Most Improved Player

U13 - Sam Tregidgo

U15 - Odin Oddy

U15/18 Female - Cara Jaskela

U18 - Calden Stanbury

Most Dedicated Player

U13 - Jack Hildes

U15 - Tyler McGowen

U15/18 - Charley Wilson-Hildebrandt

U18 - Everett Friesen

Most Valuable Player

U13 - Pistol Keith

U15 - Ethan Dewey

U15/18 Female (2 awards) - Sydnee

Brooks & Maggie Sheltgen

U18 - Noah Ledermann

Most Coachable Player

U13 - Addison Chasse

U15 - Tanner Cropley

U15/18 Female - Makenna O'Connor

U18 - Noah Ledermann

Female Player of the Year

Sahara Eccles

Dave White Most Dedicated Player

Sydnee Brooks

Eddie Mountain Volunteer of the Year plaque

Lainey Wilson

Mike Warriner Coach of the Year plaque

George Pemberton

Senior Official of the Year plaque

James Willoughby

Junior Official of the Year plaque

Chase Kinsey

Players who have played their entire time in the association:

Sahara Eccles

Payton Kruger

Connor Brooks

Player Volunteers

Maddy Rowe

Sahara Eccles

Sidney Brooks

WVMHA President Gregg Walker (right) presents the Coach of the Year award to George Pemberton.

PHOTO CHRIS MOSELEY

Players on the WVMHA U7 (left) and U9 teams receive their season trophies.

PHOTOS CHRIS MOSELEY

Annual General Meeting

Tuesday, May 21th at 7 p.m.

Lower meeting room of Lakeview Manor

Questions? Call Al Larratt at 250-688-7656

Invermere on the Lake

DISTRICT OF INVERMERE

914 – 8th Avenue, PO Box 339 Invermere, BC V0A 1K0

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

EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY

Position: Receptionist Clerk 1

Department: Corporate Services & Administration

Status: CUPE - Regular Full Time

Classification: Clerk

The District of Invermere has an opening for a Reception/Cashier Clerk 1 position in its Corporate Services & Administration Department.

Under the general supervision of the Corporate Officer, the Reception/Cashier Clerk 1 position performs a variety of routine and non-routine clerical tasks, word processing, spread sheeting, record keeping, cashiering, photocopying, and other duties as assigned. In this role, you will provide administrative support and coordination for the Corporate Services and Administration Departments, both operationally as well as for special projects.

The Reception/Cashier Clerk 1 position is required to exercise some independent judgment and action within the limits of departmental systems and procedures. The Reception/Cashier Clerk 1 position must deal courteously and effectively with the public and municipal clients.

Applicants interested in applying for this position must possess the following skills and abilities:

Two years or more of recent experience in an administrative support role.

• Proficiency with Microsoft Office suite and Adobe and a minimum net keyboarding speed of 50 to 80 words per minute.

• Considerable knowledge of administrative practices, procedures, and standard protocols.

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

Working knowledge of and experience using standardized business letter formats, as well as record management systems.

Exceptional atention to detail.

• Ability to work independently with minimal supervision, as well as working in a team environment.

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

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

Possess excellent interpersonal skills.

The preferred candidate for this position will have completed a business college or secretarial program with extensive computer training. Municipal work experience would be an asset.

A job description for this position is available but is currently under review. This position is within C.U.P.E. 2982 bargaining unit. The current wage rate for this position falls within the range of $33.01 - $33.96 per hour plus benefits as detailed in the Collective Agreement. The Reception/Cashier Clerk position is expected to work 35 hours per week Monday to Friday from 8:30 am to 4:30 pm.

Persons interested in applying for this position are invited to submit their resumes by 2:00 pm on Tuesday, May 21st, 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.

It’s not a UFO or a flying sasquatch footprint. It’s a swimming pool being transferred

Position: Public Works Assistant

Department: Public Works & Operations

Status: CUPE - Regular Full Time

Classification: Clerk

The District of Invermere has an opening for a Public Works Assistant Clerk 1 position in the Public Works & Operations Department.

Under the general supervision of the Director of Public Works & Operations and the Public Works Foreman, the Public Works Assistant Clerk 1 performs a wide range of professional administrative duties under tight deadlines, requiring a high level of accuracy, confidentiality, and discretion. In this role, you will provide administrative support and coordination for the Public Works & Operations Department, both operationally as well as for special projects. You will be the primary contact to respond to telephone and other enquires from municipal staff, as well as various outside organizations and the public.

Applicants interested in applying for this position must possess the following skills and abilities:

• Two years or more of recent experience in an administrative support role. Proficiency with Microso������ Office suite and Adobe.

Basic knowledge of accouting practices and procedures, and functional competency in same.

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

• Ability to communicate effectively in writing, including the preparation of reports and a wide variety of correspondence.

• Exceptional atention to detail.

Ability to work independently with minimal supervision, as well as working in a team environment.

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

Ability to defuse sensitive situations in a tacful and professional manner. This position is within C.U.P.E. 2982 bargaining unit. The current wage rate for this position falls within the range of $33.01 - $33.96 per hour plus benefits as detailed in the Collective Agreement. The Public Works Assistant Clerk 1 position is expected to work 35 hours per week Monday to Friday from 8:30 am to 4:30 pm.

Persons interested in applying for this position are invited to submit their resumes by 2:00 pm on Tuesday, May 21st, 2024 to:

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

to a backyard via crane.

PHOTO CHRIS JORGENSEN

EARTH WEEK

THERE ARE TWO STREAMS FOR RECYCLING IN THE EAST KOOTENAY

The Yellow Bins Throughout the Region and Municipal Curbside Pick-up in Invermere

The RDEK pays for each tonne collected through the Yellow Bins Only the following products can be recycled in the Yellow Bins or curbside in Invermere:

PAPER (such as newspaper, magazines, phone books, brochures, envelopes).

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

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

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

Recycle BC processes over 200,000 tonnes of material each year.

That’s the weight of 33,000 orca whales!

RETURN FOR REFUND, AGAIN & AGAIN

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

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

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

WHAT GOES WHERE?

Learn which products go in your curbside bin, Recycle BC Depots and Yellow Bins.

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

The RDEK is paid for each tonne collected through the Recycle BC Depots across the region

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

While the municipal curbside programs in Fernie, Cranbrook and Kimberley accept more products than the yellow bins, they do not accept flexible packaging, ziploc or chip bags, bubble wrap, styrofoam, or glass. These materials need to be taken to a Recycle BC Depot.

To learn more, click the QR code on this page or visit engage.rdek.bc.ca/recycle.

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

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

YOU GET THE DRIFT.

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

In 2023, residents of the East Kootenay diverted nearly 6 million kgs of recyclable materials from the landfill by using the Recycle BC and Yellow Bin systems alone.

THAT’S THE EQUIVALENT OF OVER 3,400 PICK-UP TRUCKS.

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

5,612,917

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

Cheers to Chef Pierre. You make the best fries in town!!!

Cheers to Jason R. at Red Apple for always being friendly and helpful when I go into the store.

VEHICLES FOR SALE

2013 GMC Terrain. Good shape. Full set of snow tires. $7500 obo. 519-932-0740 (local call)

Cheers to Michelle Chaffey-Babin for all her hard work, caring and thoughtfulness at Columbia Garden Village.

B. B.’s Home and Design Services

Narcotics Anonymous, Marijuana Anonymous

Narcotics Anonymous, Marijuana Anonymous

Wednesdays 5:30-6:30 p.m. at the BC Ser vice Building, South End. 624-4th St. Invermere.

Wednesdays 5:30-6:30 p.m. at the BC Ser vice Building, South End. 624-4th St. Invermere.

Rural Range Patrol

Rural Range Patrol

Annual General Meeting

Annual General Meeting

Wednesday May 3, 7 pm at Columbia Valley Chamber of Commerce meeting room In Loving Memory of Ted

IN MEMORIUM

In Loving Memory of Ted

February 3, 1934 to April 24, 2006

February 3, 1934 to

April 24, 2006

If the roses grow in heaven Lord, please pick a bunch for me

If the roses grow in heaven Lord, please pick a bunch for me

Place them in my husband's arms and tell him they're from me

Tell him that I love him and miss him, and when he turns to smile, place a kiss upon his cheek and hold him for a while Because remembering him is easy, I do it everyday; but there is an ache within my heart that will never go away

Place them in my husband's arms and tell him they're from me. Tell him that I love him and miss him, and when he turns to smile, place a kiss upon his cheek and hold him for a while Because remembering him is easy, I do it everyday; but there is an ache within my heart that will never go away

Love you forever

Until we meet again - Love Edel

TONY PETERSON (ANTON) ∏

TONY PETERSON (ANTON)

Wednesday May 3, 7 pm at Columbia Valley Chamber of Commerce meeting room The

Tony Peterson (Anton) 64, of Wilmer, BC, passed away on April 7, 2023 at Invermere District Hospital with his wife & children by his side.

Tony Peterson (Anton) 64, of Wilmer, BC, passed away on April 7, 2023 at Invermere District Hospital with his wife & children by his side.

Cheers to Ryan for the excellent spring-cleanup work you have done in my yard.  Cleaning the roof gutters, raking the lawn, cleaning up the flower gardens and pruning the lower, dead branches on my trees.  Great work!

Cheers to Linda Blakely, the friendliest, helpful employee who works at Home Hardware.  Linda you make it a pleasure to shop at Home Hardware and this senior citizen appreciates everything you do to help her.  The world is a better place to live because of people like you.

Cheers to Erin at The Bistro. It is always so nice to go the restaurant and be greeted by your smiling face. The service is always top notch.

Cheers to Bev at Pharmasave. I missed seeing you. Glad that you are back!

Cheers to my lovely friend Ricky M. You are generous and kind, always thinking of others. Your positivity is contagious, you bring sunshine wherever you go. I enjoy our little visits at the office. You are a wonderful person!

Cheers to Leanne at Gel n More Nails for the great job on my nails. I love them!

Cheers to Vicky at No Frills for your endless patience trying to teach me how to do self check out. I’ve almost got the hang of it. Yay!

Cheers to Tasha S. for your kindness. I appreciate your thoughtfulness and caring nature.

Cheers to Al Smith and Reg of Smitty’s Tree Service for the excellent work they did in my yard – cutting down trees, pruning trees and bushes and taking away all the debris. You give excellent customer service.  Well done!

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

LAWN RANGER

250-342-9222

Lawn & Dump Services

• Yard Cleans

• Hedge & Brush Trims •

Tony was born in Invermere, BC to Arnold & Florence (Wells) Peterson on August 19, 1958

Tony was born in Invermere, BC to Arnold & Florence (Wells) Peterson on August 19, 1958

He lived in the valley his whole life & was a hard working man from a young age, working in the forestry industry small mills his entire life.

He lived in the valley his whole life & was a hard working man from a young age, working in the forestry industry & small mills his entire life.

Al-Anon. Are you concerned about or affected by someone else’s drinking? For more information or to speak with someone from our fellowship, please call 250-878-2448 or 250-342-8392 Alpine Building Operations is looking for lawn maintenance staff at Panorama Resort.

Pond Fish For Sale

Downsizing pond and have some healthy goldfish to re home. $3 each. Call 250-345-6635 FOR SALE

He enjoyed camping, fishing, hunting, golf & gambling. His family was always his top priority Spending time watching his kids play hockey & baseball were things he really loved.

He enjoyed camping, fishing, hunting, golf & gambling. His family was always his top priority Spending time watching his kids play hockey & baseball were things he really loved.

If you have what it takes to work with a great Landscape Maintenance team, we want you!

His 6 grandkids were his pride & joy always. He loved watching their hockey games & playing with the little ones.

His 6 grandkids were his pride & joy always. He loved watching their hockey games & playing with the little ones.

Tony is survived by his love of 46 years, Dianne

Tony is survived by his love of 46 years, Dianne

We’re expanding our team and looking for hard working people, whether you have years of experience or you’re new to the green industry.

His children; Adam (Sara) Peterson-grandkids, Jaecie & Brayden, Ashley (Ryan) Barlow- grandkids, Julie & Ty, Megan (Scott) Cocciolo-grandkids, Cameron & Kayla.

His children; Adam (Sara) Peterson-grandkids, Jaecie & Brayden, Ashley (Ryan) Barlow- grandkids, Julie & Ty, Megan (Scott) Cocciolo-grandkids, Cameron & Kayla. His siblings; Pat, Kathy, Angie, Bruce, Sandy, Lizzy, Ina, Rusty, Kristine & their families.

His siblings; Pat, Kathy, Angie, Bruce, Sandy, Lizzy, Ina, Rusty, Kristine & their families.

A Celebration of Life for Tony, will be held at Radium Hot Springs Centre on Sunday, April 23 at 3:00 p.m

Our company embraces life outdoors, we appreciate the satisfaction of hard physical work, and we take pride in keeping our clients’ properties healthy and looking fantastic using an established system. You will be taught how to safely operate mowers, weed eaters, blowers, and other tools and equipment. We want you to be part of a team that works in, and appreciates, the weather of the Columbia Valley. We work on very hot days, very cold days, rainy days, and very beautiful days.

A Celebration of Life for Tony, will be held at Radium Hot Springs Centre on Sunday, April 23 at 3:00 p.m

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Invermere Health Care Auxiliary Society, palliative care room, 1229 7th Ave, Box 571 Invermere, BC V0A 1K0 or a charity of your choice The family wishes to extend our gratitude to everyone who has been here for us & for Tony during the past few months.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Invermere Health Care Auxiliary Society, palliative care room, 1229 7th Ave, Box 571 Invermere, BC V0A 1K0 or a charity of your choice The family wishes to extend our gratitude to everyone who has been here for us & for Tony during the past few months.

If you’re the best, you won’t ever have to worry about being paid above industry standards, our starting wage is $22/hr. We also offer an extremely flexible benefits package for team members who stay with us year round.

Love you forever Until we meet again - Love Edel The stora abou prap

Just a reminder… The classified deadline is 12 noon Monday IN MEMORIAM

If this is the kind of challenge you are looking for, please email enquiries to: info@brigadeltd.com

ACREAGE FOR SALE

ACREAGES FOR SALE

Last four acreages in Elkhorn Country Estates. 2.5 to 2.89 acre parcels. Individual wells, no building time commitment.

Starting at $329,000 + GST

For more information, contact Elkhorn Ranches: 250-342-1267

www.elkhornranches.com

Phone: 250-270-0435

Email: alpinebuildingops@gmail.com

William (Will) Frederick Anderson

October 15 1948 - April 10 2024

Will was born in Calgary to Ken and Winnie Anderson, but he liked to say he grew up in the Windermere Valley, spending every summer with his family at the cabin on Lower Lakeview. The lake and surrounding mountains became his playground from a young age. Will was a natural athlete and he pursued many sports to the best of his ability. He championed in some, loved the competition, and revelled in the camaraderie and fun that followed with friends even more!

His degree in Chemical Engineering from U of C and the silk screen t-shirt company he co founded (Cand’Art) in Calgary couldn’t compete with an intriguing opportunity to join the Great Escape Sailing Corporation. The year he spent sailing on the Topaz and the lifelong friendships he made, greatly influenced the direction of his life.

Will chose the valley as his permanent residence and put his talents towards building custom homes for the next 30+ years. The quality of his workmanship can be found in many homes including his own.

Besides his creative pursuits, which included a mighty fine loaf of sourdough, he had a special place in his heart for animals. He raised and rode quarter horses in Cutting Horse competitions, he always had a dog in his life and he later became a birder, and he was damn good at that, too.

Will faced his cancer diagnosis and treatments with openness, a steadfast spirit and remarkable determination. His life ended on his own terms with dignity, trust and peace. He is survived by his loving partner Joyce Hutchinson, Sophie their dog, family in Calgary, Saskatchewan and Australia and a large community of friends near and far.

Will was pre deceased by his parents Ken and Winnie, his brother Wayne and his sister June(Gemeroy).

In Loving Memory

Donald “Don” Dale Kilpatrick 1941 - 2024

Don Kilpatrick, age 82 of Invermere, BC, passed away on April 16, 2024 at his home in Invermere.

He was born on September 26, 1941 in Olds, Alberta.

Don was a crusty man on the outside but a softie on the inside. He travelled the world for his work, taking his family with him on his adventures.

Don cherished his time with his 4 grandchildren: Chanel( Branden)Harris, Bowdrie (Meagan) Hindes, Brooke Barber, and Ethan Barber.

Betty and Don were also blessed to have 4 great-grandchildren: Landry and Hadly Harris, and Clyde and Cassidy Hindes.

Don and Betty shared their love with their extra family Julia Fellers and Monique Speight.

Don is survived by his wife Birgit “Betty” Kilpatrick of 57 years, and his daughter Melisa Kathleen Luft.

He was predeceased by his daughter Karen Dawn Hindes and by his great grandson Daxyn Harris.

There will be no services as per Don’s request.

Wildlife is everywhere in the Columbia Valley, which is why it’s a haven for nature photographers.

Masonic Lodge awards bursary to EES

Submitted

Edgewater Elementary students’ hard work and efforts have been recognized by members of the local Masonic Lodge, who rewarded the group, and their leader, Mrs. Tegart, with a $200 bursary to spend as they wish. Pizza, anyone?

The group is made up of approximately 20 students from Grade 5 to 7 who, along with a few Grade 4 pupils,

are continually willing to dedicate their recesses and occasionally home time to projects.

Working as a team, it's about planning fun things for the little kids and bringing joy and fun to all of the students. Some of the school activities this group has completed this year are: three differentiated Halloween carnivals for K-7 students, organizing student-led interest clubs, and making several visits to Columbia House. They also put ‘Real

Acts of Caring (RAC)’ week into action, an initiative which promotes doing something kind for others and expecting nothing in return.

Principal Darryl Turner states proudly that “EES and the Columbia Valley are lucky to have Mrs. Tegart and this group of future leaders.”

Floyd Verge, a former Edgewater Elementary School student (when it was where the ball diamond is now), had the pleasure of presenting the gift to the stu-

dents along with some words of encouragement and wisdom.

Floyd, who is involved in many branches of freemasonry, first got interested in Masonry at his father’s Masonic funeral. He was impressed enough to explore further and learn that other family members also were Masons and that the aim of the group was to make good men better. This sparked his interest and he joined Columbia Lodge in his mid-40s.

Be wary of little vampires

Columbia Valley Pioneer staff

Interior Health is warning residents to watch out for little Draculas.

Tis the season when ticks are waiting to feed on humans and animals, so be careful out there.

Hiking in tall grass or wooded areas can mean an increased chance of getting bitten by these nasty critters.

Ticks can sometimes transmit disease, but fortunately, there are precautions people can take to prevent these illnesses.

"There are easy things you can do to protect yourself from ticks, such as covering up before you head outdoors and checking for ticks when returning from a walk, hike or bike ride," says Dr. Fatemeh Sabet, Interior Health medical health officer.

“Most tick bites do not result in illness. However, any bite from a tick should be cleaned because infection can occur whenever there is a break in the skin,” she adds.

Ticks also have toxins that can cause temporary muscle weakness and paralysis if they are attached for several days – especially in children or seniors –but the symptoms fade once the tick is removed from the skin.

The signs of many tick-borne infections can be quite similar and include fever, headache, muscle pain and rash.

One of the most important ways to

reduce the risk of tick illnesses is to do a skin check on yourself and your children after being outdoors.

Follow these additional precautions:

• Walk on cleared trails when in tall grass or wooded areas

• Wear a hat, long sleeves, pants and light-coloured clothing

• Tuck pant legs into socks or boots

• Apply insect repellent containing DEET on uncovered skin

• Carefully check clothing and scalp when leaving an area where ticks may live

• Regularly check household pets for ticks

If you find a tick on yourself, a family member or pet, wear gloves when removing it and be careful not to crush the tick as this could cause it to inject its stomach contents into your skin.

To remove ticks safely, use needle-nose tweezers to gently grasp the tick close to the skin. Without squeezing, pull the tick straight out.

• After removal, clean the area with soap and water

• If you find a tick, check very carefully for others

Most individuals with acute Lyme disease do not notice the biting tick that precedes the illness. If you have concerns or need assistance removing a tick, contact your family doctor or visit a walk-in medical clinic.

Invermere on the Lake

Floyd Verge, a former Edgewater Elementary School

DISTRICT OF INVERMERE

914 – 8th Avenue, PO Box 339 Invermere, BC V0A 1K0

Tel: (250) 342-9281

Fax: (250) 342-2934

District of Invermere Sports Courts Usage Survey Spring 2024

The District of Invermere (the District) is reviewing the current usage of its outdoor operated sports courts located at Mountain Nelson Athletic Park (MNAP) and Rotary Park. These spaces include opportunities for a variety of sports, including for example tennis, pickleball and basketball.

There has been a growing demand for sports court space from different user groups. To help support different sports groups and respond to competing requests for court time, the tennis courts at Rotary Park are being repaired & resurfaced. Also, additional court sport lines have been added to the Mount Nelson Athletic Park courts to support different sport uses.

However, there remains a limited number of sports courts and play hours available. In an effort to continue to support all user groups and offer a range of sport court programming in Invermere, the District is reviewing existing drop-in days, and times for the existing sports courts to better match community needs.

How can you Engage?

Have your say on how you think Invermere’s sports courts should be used by completing our survey. Your answers will help us to better understand the recreational needs of our community and guide our planning processes. Survey input will be used to support building a recreational schedule that helps satisfy sports courts users’ needs, better utilizes & maximizes available court space, and improves court usage experiences for all user groups. We need the Invermere community’s input to help prepare plans and schedules for our outdoor sports courts and facilities, as well as staff for the Spring, Summer and Fall of 2024. This survey can be found on the District’s website, www.invermere.net and paper copies are available at the District’s Municipal Office located at 914 - 8th Avenue. Completed surveys can be submitted until 4:30 pm, Wednesday, May 8th 2024. We look forward to receiving your feedback!

student, presents the bursary to a group of pupils during a recent ceremony on behalf of the Masonic Lodge. The students are being recognized for their work in helping others in the community.

PHOTO SUBMITTED

NOTICE – BYLAW AMENDMENT – Bylaw 3305 – Fairmont Hot Springs

The Regional District of East Kootenay (RDEK) Board of Directors is considering an application from HC Consulting Inc., RKJ Consulting Inc., and Spenoco Consulting Inc. to amend the zoning designation of the subject property from C-1, Community Commercial to R-3, Multi-Family Residential – Medium Density. The property is vacant and the owners do not plan to establish a commercial use on the property. The property is located at 5075 Highway 93/95 in Fairmont Hot Springs as shown on the attached map.

Bylaw No. 3305 cited as “Regional District of East Kootenay – Columbia Valley Zoning Bylaw No. 3255, 2023 – Amendment Bylaw No. 10, 2024 (Fairmont Hot Springs / HC Consulting Inc., RKJ Consulting Inc. & Spenoco Consulting Inc.)” will amend the zone designation of Lot A, District Lot 46, Kootenay District, Plan NEP77878 is amended from C-1 Community Commercial Zone to R-3, Multiple Family Residential – Medium Density Zone, from R-3, Multiple Family Residential - Medium Density Zone to R-5, Multiple Family Residential - Community (Cluster) Zone.

A public hearing for the proposed bylaw will not be held pursuant to Section 467 of the Local Government Act which states that a local government must not hold a public hearing if:

a) An Official Community Plan is in effect for the area that is the subject of the proposed bylaw,

b) The bylaw is consistent with the official community plan,

c) The sole purpose of the bylaw is to permit a development that is, in whole or in part, a residential development, and

d) The residential component of the development accounts for at least half of the gross floor area of all the buildings and other structures proposed as part of the development

Bylaw No. 3305 is consistent with the Columbia Valley Official Community Plan Bylaw No. 3255, 2023. The Official Community Plan designation for the subject property is R-MF, Residential Multi-Family which supports multi-family and cluster-style single-family development.

Bylaw No. 3305 will be considered for 1st, 2nd & 3rd readings by the RDEK Board of Directors on May 10, 2024. If the bylaw is introduced, it will forwarded to the Ministry of Transportation and Infrastructure for approval prior to being considered for adoption.

If you believe that your interest in property is affected by the proposed Bylaw, you may: 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 Friday, May 3, 2024 at 4:30 pm.

• mail or email written submissions to the addresses shown below before Friday, May 3, 2024 at 4:30 pm.

SUBMISSIONS CANNOT BE ACCEPTED AFTER THE DEADLINE.

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

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

ESSENTIAL QUALIFICATIONS:

• Progressive experience (one to five years) maintaining water and wastewater utilities, preferably in a local government setting.

• Class I, II or III Water Treatment and Water Distribution Operator Certificates.

• Class I, II or III Wastewater Collection and Wastewater Treatment Operator Certificates.

• Possession of a Chlorine Handling Certificate.

• Valid British Columbia Driver’s Licence

KEY SKILLS & ABILITIES:

• Thorough knowledge of the operation and maintenance of water and wastewater systems and applicable government regulations.

• Excellent communication and organizational skills.

• Working knowledge of Microsoft Office and SCADA monitoring systems.

• Ability to establish and maintain professional and effective working relationships with contractors, developers, applicable regulating agencies, staff, and the general public.

If you possess the necessary qualifications and experience, we invite you to submit a resume and cover letter, with references to:

Ashley Grobell, Human Resources Manager

Email: hr@rdek.bc.ca (Please quote: 2024-15)

Information on our organization is available at www.rdek.bc.ca/careers

AS THE SUCCESSFUL CANDIDATE YOU ARE ABLE TO:

• Complete assignments with attention to detail, a high degree of accuracy, and confidentiality.

• Computer literate with experience in land management systems and Microsoft Office Suite.

• Engage with fellow employees, the public, and outside agencies in a courteous manner.

• Establish and maintain effective working relationships.

• Knowledge of cash management systems.

• Maintain composure and find solutions when dealing with difficult customers.

• Organize work schedule to meet deadlines and priorities.

ESSENTIAL QUALIFICATIONS:

• One year Office Administration Certificate.

• One year administrative experience.

We thank all who apply. Only those selected for further consideration will be contacted. This

If you possess the necessary qualifications and experience, we invite you to submit a resume and cover letter with references, no later than 12:30 pm Tuesday, May 14, 2024, to:

Ashley Grobell, Human Resources Manager

Email: hr@rdek.bc.ca

(Please quote: 2024-16)

Information on our organization is available at www.rdek.bc.ca/careers

We thank all who apply. Only those selected for further consideration will be contacted.

For the love of retiring library director

This week’s column was written by Invermere Library assistant Dallas Husar. Visit their website or call 250-342-6416 for more information.

It has been said “in a world where you can be anything, be kind.” If you have ever had the pleasure of meeting Anne Rogers from the Invermere Public Library, you would assume these words were written with her in mind.

Anne has been library director since 2020, and this month she has retired from her position as our fearless leader. Since her arrival, she has been welcoming, encouraging, and inspiring, not only to her staff, but with everyone who steps foot in the library. Anne treats everyone with respect and kindness and has helped make the library a second home, a happy place to many.

Anne approaches all interactions with warmth and an open mind, even situations that are stressful or that others may shy away from. She embodies true strength of character, especially in a world where it’s easy to assume the worst in others.

Anne is the kind of leader everyone deserves to work for at least once in their lifetime; someone who sees her employees’ strengths and encourages them. Someone who trusts her employees’ intuitions and ideas, and celebrates everyone’s successes with them. She never withholds praise, being sure to let everyone around her know when they have done a good job or that their contributions matter.

Library staff member Japhy Hunt sums up Anne with the following: “Anne was my welcoming gatekeeper to the library. I’ll always remember meeting in the early spring sun during my interview. That conversation, to me, represented the beginnings and basis of a job that has been only filled with warmth and support from the loveliest of people around me, and she has been a huge part of that. I’m forever thankful for her trust and openness that has allowed me (and my co-workers) to branch out and assume various roles so that we can express our whole selves in the library. I think I speak on behalf of everyone working here at

the library, and our community of patrons, when I say that I’m so thankful for her immense kindness, care and sincerity.”

Anne’s presence at the library will be missed as much for her warm and welcoming smile as it will be for the genuine care she showed for everyone who walked through the door.

The Invermere library passes from one capable and caring leader to the next. We are fortunate to announce that Blair McFarlane will be the new library director. Blair has been with the library for close to a decade, having started as a student page and then moving into the community outreach coordinator position.

Blair says “Anne has been one of the most supportive and thoughtful employers I’ve had. She has been such a great leader for the library and I intend to do my best to emulate her grace, patience, and kindness as I move into the position. We will all miss her, and her impact supporting our community will be long felt.”

Thank you for everything, Anne. It has been such a pleasure working for you.

Columbia Valley Churches

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

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, 11 a.m. Sunday School, 10 a.m.

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

Invermere ponies up for doctors

By Steve Hubrecht  steve@columbiavalleypioneer.com

The District of Invermere wants more doctors here in the Columbia Valley. And it’s willing to pay a bit extra to get them, having recently announced that it will be giving an additional $10,000 to the physician recruitment effort led by the Columbia Valley Chamber of Commerce.

Invermere Mayor Al Miller described the move as “offsetting a funding gap left by the Regional District of East Kootenay (RDEK) in its 2024 budget.”

The valley needs at least two more doctors, explained Miller.   “We understand the importance of the recruitment efforts . . .

we are doing this for the residents here who do not have family doctors. We need a better ratio of doctors to population,” Miller told the Pioneer “We’ve always had a bit of an issue with doctor shortages, but it’s getting more competitive all the time and we are not the only community or only region having issues with these shortages.”

The recruitment efforts emphasize the many lifestyle advantages of the Columbia Valley, such as outdoor recreation opportunities and the sense of community that comes from living in a small town.

Right now, Miller said, there are not enough physicians working in the valley for proper rotation.

“We need new doctors, and we need to keep the ones we have. We don’t want to have any burnout,” he told the Pioneer. “It’s true the lifestyle is good in the Columbia Valley, but if you are so busy as a doctor that you don’t have any free time to enjoy that lifestyle, then it’s not really a draw anymore.”

Miller pointed out that the recruitment efforts run on a very small budget, which makes things difficult.

“We have to work pretty hard. As I mentioned, it’s competitive when it comes to trying to entice doctors —  there are other places that also offer great outdoor lifestyles, and great sense of community. If we want doctors to come here, we need to stand out.”

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

Anne Rogers has retired as Invermere’s library director who will be missed. PHOTO SUBMITTED