Columbia Valley Pioneer May 25

Last week Parks Canada fire crews began battling a wildfire sparked by lightning on Mitchell Ridge in Kootenay National Park. Meanwhile, wildflowers are in full bloom in the park.

Photos by Ryan Watmough

Plan ahead for emergencies: Red Cross

By Steve Hubrecht steve@columbiavalleypioneer.com

Smoke from the wildfires burning in northern Alberta drifted south and filled the Columbia Valley last week, reminding residents that wildfire season has begun.

It’s a good time to re-assess your emergency preparedness and make sure you and your family are ready to leave your home at a moment’s notice, should disaster strike. And while you’re at it, why not consider your readiness not just for wildfire but also for any type of disaster, be it flooding, debris flows, heavy rain and landslides shutting down highways and forcing locals to hunker down in their homes, or any number of other scenarios.

at’s the message Columbia Valley volunteers working with the Red Cross are hoping to get out to residents. e group is led here in the valley by Radium resident (and former Radium mayor) Clara Reinhardt.

Earlier this month, during national Emergency Preparedness Week, Reinhardt distributed information packages and brochures through the Columbia Valley in public locations such as the District of Invermere office, at both visitor centres, and at both public libraries. e brochures

aim to raise awareness about being ready in case of disaster.

“ e idea is to get people to think about what they need to do to be prepared, should the worst happen,” Reinhardt told the Pioneer

Of course “having a grab-and-go kit for 72 hours, in case you need to leave your home immediately, is the standard,” she outlined, but added there’s quite a lot more to consider beyond that.

One of the brochures essentially functions as a fill-in-the-blank family emergency plan, with 14 pages of checklists and questions to answer, such as where to go in various scenarios, as well as where to meet loved ones should you become separated from them during the disaster, and so on.

“It really helps you go through it (emergency planning) with your family,” explained Reinhardt.

She noted that decades ago, after an earthquake in southern California, cell phone lines (which were a new thing at the time) were jammed with people trying to get in touch with family and friends in the wake of the disaster, to figure out what to do.

“Obviously things are so much easier if you have a plan in place first,” said Re-

Open house scheduled

Submitted

e Regional District of East Kootenay (RDEK) will be hosting an open house to share information and details on the new Radium Transfer Station.

“ e Open House will provide residents with an opportunity to see the proposed site layout, learn more about the expanded services that will be available at the site and ask questions of staff,” said RDEK Environmental Services Manager, Kevin Paterson.

e open house will be held Tuesday, May 30 from 5 to 7 p.m. at the Radium Hot Springs Centre on Stanley Street. e Transfer Station will provide a new, convenient option for Radium and Area

G residents to dispose of their waste and access a wide range of new recycling opportunities, including: a full Recycle BC Depot; used oil recycling; electronics recycling; areas for the recycling of white goods, propane tanks and batteries; and dedicated bins for the drop-off of green waste, metals, and wood waste.

e station will be located within the Village of Radium Hot Springs on property adjacent to the Village’s Wastewater Treatment Plant and across from the Canfor log yard. Construction is slated to be underway later this summer, with a completion date of late 2023.

Visit engage.rdek.bc.ca/radiumtransferstation for more information about the project.

inhardt.

A few years ago the Red Cross signed a contract with the Regional District of East Kootenay (RDEK) to provide Emergency Support Services (ESS) in the Columbia Valley. ESS involves helping local residents who are displaced by fire, flood, landslides, earthquakes or other emergencies.

ose services were put into action this past winter, when an Invermere house fire left five young adults suddenly without their home.

“We made sure they had some food, and one young woman needed a uniform for work, so we got her some cash cards so

she could buy the uniform she needed,” explained Reinhardt.

To find out more about emergency preparedness visit the Radium Hot Springs Visitor Centre, the Columbia Valley Chamber of Commerce Visitor Centre, the District of Invermere office, the Invermere Public Library, or the Radium Hot Springs Public Library and ask to see the Red Cross information packages and brochures.

You can also see (and print) a copy of the emergency plan brochure at: www. redcross.ca/crc/documents/How-WeHelp/Emergencies-and-Disasters-in-Canada/emergency-plan.pdf

Vacation

School

Wild re caused by lightning

Columbia Valley Pioneer Staff

e lightning-caused Mitchell Ridge fire in Kootenay National Park has burned more than 260 hectares. Parks Canada said there is no threat to public safety, infrastructure or roads at this time, but the fire is considered out of control.

e fire reportedly began on the afternoon of May 19 when it was estimated at 21 hectares. At that time the

location was approximately 2 km east of the Kootenay Valley viewpoint and 7 km north of Nipika Mountain Resort.

On Monday, May 22, a total of 24 firefighters were working the fire by reinforcing containment lines along the south and southwest flanks. Four helicopters have been supporting ground crews with bucketing numerous hot spots.

e Pioneer can takeyour

With 4,400 copies in circulation each week, your message is resonating with residents and

dollarfarther!

e Mitchell Ridge wildfire in Kootenay National Park was caused by lightning and has grown more than 260 hectares. Kootenay National Park photo

Lake Windermere Pulse Check

www.lakeambassadors.ca

Lake Windermere Pulse Check for May 16th, 2023

Average Water Temperature: 18.9°C

Average Water Depth: 4.02m

Average Turbidity: 1.35 NTU

Average D.O.: 9.125 mg/L

Average pH: 8.02

It was a calm smokey morning during our weekly water sampling. e water is starting to warm, almost time for a swim! Our team spotted some young bald eagles resting in some trees. We still have spots open to volunteers that would like to join us on the boat on Tuesdays for water sampling, to join please email Jacob at Intern@lakeambssadors.ca anks to our sponsors: Columbia Basin Trust, Totem Charitable Foundation, BC Gaming, District of Invermere, Regional District of East Kootenay, TD Friends of the Environment Foundation, Columbia Valley Community Foundation, Columbia Valley Local Conservation Foundation, and British Columbia Conservation Foundation.

Tourism Radium steps away as chamber

By Steve Hubrecht steve@columbiavalleypioneer.com

Tourism Radium will go forward as an official Destination Marketing Organization (DMO), and step away from operating as a chamber of commerce.

e organization has served both functions for many years, but during an annual general meeting earlier this month, Tourism Radium members voted in favour of proceeding solely as a DMO.

“As a DMO, Tourism Radium will be focused on bringing Radium and the Columbia Valley, as a destination, to external markets, and attracting visitors,” said Jessica Fairhart, Tourism Radium and Columbia Valley Tourism Marketing Society (CVTMS) executive director.

She added that, in contrast “a chamber of commerce is typically more focussed on business support, business advocacy, and business education and training.”

e Columbia Valley Chamber of Commerce will now be the single chamber of commerce in the Columbia

Valley, which makes things more efficient and straightforward in terms of chamber services, Fairhart told the Pioneer. And with CTVMS, Tourism Radium and the Invermere-Panorama DMO now more closely aligned than in the past, destination marketing will be more streamlined too, she explained.

“In recent years, it has become clear our community would benefit from a more streamlined and comprehensive approach to both destination marketing and economic development,” said Fairhart.

Last week Tourism Radium named Patrick Tolchard as its new president. e organization thanked outgoing leader Erin Palashniuk for her five years of service and leadership on the board, in development of the CVTMS and in leading the push for valley-wide tourism marketing.

In the long run, the transition from operating as DMO and chamber of commerce to operating

SAR crews kept busy

Columbia Valley Pioneer Staff

Columbia Valley Search and Rescue (CVSAR) has been kept busy with recent call-outs.

On the May 13-14 weekend, members assisted the BC Ambulance Service with a medical response on a local hiking trail where someone needed transport to hospital. Shortly after that incident, CVSAR crews were called to help an injured paraglider on Lake Windermere.

On the night of May 16, members were tasked by the RCMP for a missing person at Panorama Mountain Resort. A

team responded and conducted a search with assistance from Panorama Safety Services and Panorama Fire Rescue. e search continued in the morning and the individual was located in good health outside of Panorama village.

“A huge thank you to everyone who helped in the searches. is was a huge team effort,” CVSAR said on its Facebook page.

People are reminded to think about the “three Ts” when they venture out: trip planning, training, and taking the essentials. And don’t hesitate to call 911 if you need help.

solely as a DMO will better support tourism operators and businesses in the region through an expanded offering of resources and expertise, Fairhart noted.

“We encourage businesses to continue to work with the Columbia Valley Chamber of Commerce, who focus on business development through training and education, are able to advocate to governments at every level, and have many networking opportunities,” she said.

Fairhart added that the DMO will work in tandem with partners to amplify events, support local businesses, showcase tourism operators, drive the shoulder season, invest in community nonprofits, and conduct destination development strategies, helping businesses in the area to thrive and grow.

To learn more visit www.radiumhotsprings.com.

For Sale by Owner

square feet of beautifully finished living space. The basement consists of 2 bedrooms a 4pc. bath, and a large family room, all professionally finished. The main floor involves kitchen, laundr y, 3 pc. bath, master bedroom and a large living room. There is a small office on the upper floor loft, plus two bedrooms separated by a jointly useable 4pc. bath.

17 years ago a 3 car 36x28 foot garage was attached to the main house. Above the garage is a revenue or family useable suite. The suite would easily rent for $1200.00 per month or $ 144,000.00 over a ten year period. The property is 100Ft. wide and 144 feet deep. The back yard is massive and looks like a park.

A sun room was built recently at the back of the house. Other features are a storage shed and a storage unit under the suite’s rear deck. This is fully enclosed. The home is well insulated, has baseboard heating plus a heat pump providing both heating and air

Photo by CVSAR

Camp res should be banned too

As the wildfire danger ramps up in BC, the province in its ‘half-hearted’ wisdom has prohibited all open burning (Category 2 and 3 fires). Makes sense considering the volatility of the situation.

But what doesn’t make sense is the fact campfires are still permitted. Why would you ban burn piles and burning barrels and not campfires?

Unattended campfires or poorly extinguished ones have led to many devastating wildfires in the past. According to the BC government, nearly 60 per cent of the 670 wildfires in 2020 were human caused, while 41 per cent (275) were caused by lightning. However, in more recent statistics, the government reports last year’s fire season was characterized by above average lightning-caused fires as opposed to human-caused fires. As of October 2022 there were 1,758 wildfires that burned more than 133,437 hectares, with 68 per cent of these fires caused by lightning.

e point is we can’t afford to take any chances as climate change pushes us to the edge of a stark reality –our planet is burning up and, ironically, flooding at the same time.

If you’re going to ban fireworks, sky lanterns and burning piles because of the high danger rating, campfires should be included in that edict. A spark from a campfire can travel some distance and ignite a wildfire, resulting in evacuations and millions of dollars in property damage. Why take the risk?

We acknowledge that campfires are fun, particularly during a family gathering to roast marshmallows, but they are not necessary. Wait until the fall when the fire hazard is lower. Too often people abandon their fires or don’t do a thorough job in extinguishing them prior to pulling up camp. While there are many responsible campers out there, a number of irresponsible ones don’t care as long as their house doesn’t burn to cinders.

An abandoned campfire was reportably to blame for a wildfire near Stave Lake in the Fraser Valley last year. Unfortunately it is difficult to prove and hold people accountable for these fires, but you can be assured that the taxpayer will foot the bill.

For people who must have a campfire, we implore them to use extra caution by ensuring the fire is no larger than one metre high and one metre wide. Make sure it is in a well-contained pit and there are no flammables nearby. Have a water source on hand to extinguish the fire if it gets out of control. And be certain the fire is totally out and cold to the touch before leaving it. All it takes is one careless moment to ruin the lives of many.

Slow signs all over the place

I invite you to drive along important roads within r)ural Invermere and you will notice small signs reading “slow” . . . they are all over the place. Well, immediately after the warning sign your car will hit either a pothole or a pavement protuberance that may even lead to losing control of your vehicle.

I am wondering if this is the Regional District of East Kootenay’s solution of a problem that is getting bigger and bigger. Some signs were even installed two years ago on Lakeview Drive and nothing has been done to fix the issue.

Not to mention driving along Swansea Road; there are no slow signs installed because the number of potholes one will hit would require a slow sign every few metres. Swansea Road from Windermere Loop southwards to Highway 95 craters make the road look like a ird World country secondary road.

Based on my concern, I would ask only one question to Electoral Area F director Susan Clovechok: Where is the money?

Edward Mayer, Invermere

Shown here is a photo of a large group of children in swim suits representing the first Red Cross swim class in 1967.

Photo provided by the Windermere and District Historical Society

is is a quote from someone who helped paint the second rainbow crossing in Invermere (May 18 edition of e Columbia Valley Pioneer):

“To us, the rainbow crosswalks will always represent a town rallying behind the 2LGBTQiA+ community and making our streets feel a little more welcoming. And we're excited to come back next year to renew the faded lines - and every year after that.”

If the community must paint these rainbows to help

new art room

Columbia Valley Pioneer Staff

David ompson Secondary School (DTSS) will be getting a new art room thanks to an expansion by College of the Rockies’ Invermere campus.

e collaboration will see the College giving the high school’s art room a facelift with a $2.8 million infusion from the provincial government.

Both the College and DTSS have shared space since 1998, with the art room connected to the College’s portion of the building.

Allan Knibbs, Director of Facilities at College of the Rockies, said a growing number of programs and students at the campus has necessitated the expansion

“With the introduction of new programming like our Hospitality Management diploma, and subsequent enrolment growth, space is extremely constrained, limiting the campus’ course offerings and availability,” Knibbs said.

e project is expected to be completed before the start of the fall semester in September. High school representatives could not be reached for comment on the initiative.

Grants approved

Columbia Valley Pioneer staff

e Regional District of East Kootenay (RDEK) has approved a number of grants in aid for some worthy projects in the valley.

Electoral Area F director Susan Clovechok said she was very pleased that the board supported three applications for the Discretionary Grant in Aid (DGIA) program recommended by the Electoral Area Advisory Commission. ese include $250 for the BC Senior Games Society (Zone 7), $750 for Cops for Kids Charitable Foundation, and $600 for Peaks Gymnastics Society for their year-end show.

Area G recommended the same projects and amounts, except for Peaks Gymnastics that will receive a $200 grant.

Director Roberta Schnider said this year Area G was oversubscribed in the granting stream by 300 per cent, making the decisions hard to make. She noted the Games are important to support seniors in staying active, while Cops for Kids supports children in medical crises. Schnider added that Peaks Gymnastics is “bursting at the seams” in the mandate to support youth in staying physically active, which is a high priority for the RDEK.

a small group of the community feel welcomed and accepted, then why don’t we have an orange and red crosswalk for all the Indigenous peoples, the ones who are murdered and still missing? What about the children who were hidden and buried by residential schools? Our community has a large number of Indigenous peoples.

What about a solid black one for all the Black Lives Matter? ere is a very small percentage of African American in the community and they also should feel welcomed and accepted.

Or maybe even a large red and white crosswalk for all our Alberta tourists and residents. We know they get a lot

of hate. Why not make them one too?

By focusing on one you exclude others Letters DTSS to get

Or how about just making a big red one with hearts just to represent love for one another, which includes everyone? What we do to celebrate one minority group should be done for all.

It’s when you focus on one that you ‘exclude’ others. Why not encourage all groups who want to paint a crosswalk in their way to do so?

No hate or judging, but recognize and celebrate all, not just some. at’s what causes division.

Sheyanne Bowditch, Invermere

(i) ElectroRecycle RECYCLING EVENTS

For small appliances, power tools + electric outdoor equipment

Electl"'oRecycle's fl"'ee pop-up collection booths will be accepting toastel"'s, micl"'owaves, vacuums, electl"'ic sandel"'s, & much mol"'e!

RADIUM HOT SPRINGS ���

4863 Stanley St

Thurs, May 25th 2pm - 6pm

Angel Flight seeks volunteer pilots

Old Community Hall Lot

Sat, May 27th 10am - pm

WINDERMERE

Columbia Valley Landfill Sun, May 28th

By Steve Hubrecht steve@columbiavalleypioneer.com

e provincial government recently announced funding for Angel Flight East Kootenay (AFEK), which will help keep the volunteer-operated nonprofit organization stay aloft for the next few years. But AFEK saw demand for its services soar last year, and is looking for more volunteer pilots to join its team.

AFEK helps East Kootenay residents (including those from the Columbia Valley) access necessary but non-emergency medical care in Kelowna by flying them to the Okanagan city, sparing them the absurdly long drive times and considerable travel and accommodation costs such trips once entailed. e group took wing more than four years ago in April 2019 and initially consisted entirely of volunteer pilots using their own private aircraft to fly patients from the region’s small airports to Kelowna and back.

Last week the B.C. Ministry of Health outlined that it will give a total of $300,000 to AFEK over the next two years.

“We are tremendously grateful,” AFEK founder Brent Bidston told the Pioneer. “It’s also uplifting that the province recognizes what we are doing and is willing to formally support us.”

In late 2021 AFEK secured enough funding that it was able to purchase its own, larger aircraft (a Cessna 414A) instead of relying on volunteer pilots to use their own small planes. e Cessna is kept at the Cranbrook airport and means AFEK can now operate more consistently, rarely having to cancel flights due to variable weather. As a result the number of people AFEK flies each year has taken off.

In AFEK’s first partial year of operation in 2019, it flew 15 patients to and from Kelowna. In 2020 — the organization’s first full year of operation — that figure leapt to 100. e next year, in 2021, it was 110. en in 2022, the first full year with the Cessna, AFEK flew 570 patients to and from Kelowna, operating three days a week (Tuesday, Wednesday and ursday).

ere are currently four volunteer pilots on the AFEK team, and aside from Bidston (who is a retired airline captain) all work full-time jobs and consequently have limited availability.

“So we are looking for more pilots,” said Bidston.

Potential pilots need to have a multi-engine rating and an instrument rating.

AFEK board chair (and Columbia Valley resident) Pete Bourke told the Pioneer “we are extremely grateful for the provincial support. is is a critical service for the residents of the East Kootenay and the funding will help it continue for at least a couple more years.”

Bidston outlined that the $300,000 will be spent on maintenance, upgrades and operational costs associated with the Cessna.

e purchase of the 414A in 2021 was made possible by a five-year funding commitment for a total of $500,000 from the Regional District of East Kootenay (RDEK).

e funding from the RDEK and province is significant and helps “future proof” the nonprofit, but AFEK also faces significant operating costs, explained Bourke. Bidston noted that as use of the AFEK service increases, so too do the organization’s operating costs.

Columbia River-Revelstoke MLA Doug Clovechok said he’s grateful for the new funding, but noted that “we can’t ignore the fact that this funding is a mere Band-Aid solution to the much deeper problem of underfunded and understaffed health care facilities in our communities. We need more resources and better access to care, and we need them now.” Clovechok later added, “we can’t rely on volunteers and charity to solve the health care crisis in our communities.”

Both Bourke and Clovechok expressed deep appreciation to Bidston, his wife Janet and the other AFEK volunteers.

To volunteer with AFEK, donate to its efforts, use its services, or just learn more about the group visit www.angelflightek. ca.

Angel Flight East Kootenay is a nonprofit, volunteer-operated organization that helps residents (including those from the Columbia Valley) access necessary but non-emergency medical care in Kelowna. Photo submitted

A Fairy Tale in pictures

A Canada goose guards her eggs closely in a local marsh as spring gives way to summer.

Photo by Lila Davidson

David ompson Secondary School (DTSS) theatre students are putting the final touches on their upcoming year-end play ‘ e Witch’s Princess’.

Photos by Steve Hubrecht

OU T O F O F F I C E

Is Your Business Prepared for an Emergency?

May 8 to May 12, 2023 was Economic Development Week Created in 2016 by IIn an unpredictable and ever-changing world, continuity planning has become an essential aspect of business management Organizations, regardless of their size or industry, need to be prepared for various scenarios that could potentially disrupt their operations

One of the most pressing scenarios businesses in the Columbia Valley today is the threat of wildfires With the increasing frequency and intensity of wildfires, businesses must be prepared to respond to evacuation aler ts A continuity plan that includes protocols for relocating employees, securing vital equipment and documents, and establishing alternative work arrangements can minimize downtime and ensure business continuity during such emergencies

A well-developed continuity plan comprises several key components Information storage is critical, as businesses need to safeguard their impor tant documents and data Implementing secure off-site or cloud-based storage solutions ensures that vital information remains accessible even if the physical workspace is compromised

To plan for emergencies, establishing a communication strategy in advance is key This includes multiple channels to enable efficient communication with

employees, clients, suppliers, and other stakeholders This allows for everyone to receive consistent updates and fosters undisrupted collaboration

Risk reduction is our next piece of advice By conducting thorough risk assessments of your business and identifying potential hazards, you can be proactive to minimize/mitigate risk This may include strengthening infrastructure, using landscaping techniques to reduce flood and fire, implementing backup systems, or diversifying suppliers to reduce dependency on a single source

Continuity planning is always impor tant, for many types of disruptions Whether it’s a wildfire threat, an illness outbreak, or any other interruption, having a well-crafted continuity plan can save businesses from significant setbacks By focusing on information storage, communication strategies, risk reduction, and hazard identification, organizations can proactively prepare for various emergencies

For businesses seeking assistance in developing a continuity plan, a free resource is available through Community Futures Theresa Wood, at advisor@ cvchamber ca, can provide guidance and suppor t in creating a robust plan to help keep you and your staff prepared for an emergency

Stay safe, be prepared!

Thursday, May 25

9:15 a.m.: StrongStar t/C AP-C at Edgewater Elementar y on Tuesdays and Thursdays Join this free drop -in program; ages 0 to 5 + caregivers

• 10 a.m.: Parent & Tot Connec t at Frater Landing Parents & ages 0-6 are invited to this FREE drop -in program. Tuesdays & Thursdays

• 10 a.m.-noon: Pickleball Club drop -in play

• 10:15 a.m.: Tech Time at the Invermere Public Librar y Come for one - onone tech help drop -ins

10:30 a.m.: Senior's Fitness at the Columbia Valley Centre, $2 drop -in.

• 12- 1 p.m.: Seniors' Lunch at the Legion, to reser ve call Jan: 250-3421196

• 2- 3 p.m.: Senior's Tea at the Invermere Public Librar y All community members welcome to stop by the librar y for a cup of tea and a chat! Ever y 2nd & 4th Thursday of the month.

• 2 p.m.: Tech Time at the Radium Public Librar y Come for one - on- one tech help – bring your device

3 p.m.: FREE Youth Drop -In Fun at the Summit Youth Centre Hub Grade 7-12 come to meet, hang out and enjoy time with friends

• 6:30 p.m.: Invermere Pickleball League play

• 6:45 p.m.: Texas Hold 'Em Poker Tournament at the Invermere Legion ever y Thursday for members and guests. $30 buy-in.

• 7:30 p.m.: Trivia Night at the Windermere Whitehouse Pub, 3 person, teams of more than 6 will be split into two groups

Friday, May 26

✰ 12 p.m.: Soup for Lunch at the Edgewater Community Hall. Bring your own containers for takeout Costs $10/ person, ever yone is welcome

• 9:15 a.m.: Strong Star t Eileen Madson. Ever y Monday and Friday; Ever y 1st and 3rd Wednesday For children 0- 5 and caregivers!

• 10 a.m.-noon: Pickleball Club drop -in play

• 10:30 a.m.: Family Stor ytime at the Invermere Public Librar y Join us at the librar y each week for stories, songs and a crafts!

• 1 p.m.: FREE Youth Drop -In Fun at the Summit Youth Centre Hub. For grades 7-12, come meet, hang out and enjoy some great times with your friends

• 3 p.m- close: Wings & Things at the Legion, pub grub done right! 6:30 p.m. - close: Meat Draw and 50/50 in the Legion! Members and guests welcome!

• 6:30 -8:30 p.m: Dynamic Archer y Speed Shooting Come tr y Archer y at Luxor Corrals Call 250-347-9048 to register

• 7 p.m. - 9 p.m.: Drop -In Adult Parkour Unit 6, 1340 Industrial Road #3. Adults are invited to drop -in for $20! Ever y 2nd Friday

• 9 p.m.: K araoke Windermere Whitehouse Pub Ages 19+

Saturday, May 27

✰ 9 a.m.: Craz y Soles Nipika Trail Run. Join for a 25km, 10km, 5km or 2.5 km distance. Single track for all ages: run with scenic mountain views. Get involved at nipika.com/craz ysoles

✰ 9:30 a.m.: Groundswell Network Society Workshop: Garnish your meals gourmet style Costs $45 for members; $50 for non-members, supplies included Groundswellnetwork.ca to register

• 10 a.m.-noon: Pickleball Club drop -in play

• 10:30 a.m.: LEGO/D uplo Club at the Invermere Public Librar y We'll have Lego, Duplo, big blocks and more out to play with on Saturday mornings!

• 10:30 a.m.: Pokemon Club at Main Street Fun & Games for ages 7+, Reading proficienc y required

• 3 p.m. - 11:59 p.m.: Wings & Things, Meat Draw & 50/50 at the Legion, pub grub done right!

Sunday, May 28

• 10a.m.: Indoor Pickleball at the Invermere Curling Club.

• 11 a.m -2 p.m.: Toast & (music) Jam at the Village Social, Canal Flats Bring your own instrument, join the jam or come enjoy live music

• 2 p.m.: Cards, Cribbage and Dar ts Come to the Invermere Legion and have some fun! Members and guests welcome

• 2 p.m.: Invermere Pickleball open play

• 3 p.m. - midnight: Wings & Things at the Invermere Legion, pub grub done right!

• 7 p.m.: Live Music at Horsethief Creek Pub & Eater y Accompanied minors are permitted. No cover.

Monday, May 29

• 9:15 a.m.: StrongStar t at Eileen Madson. Ever y Monday and Friday, ever y 1st and 3rd Wednesday for children 0-5 and their caregivers!

• 10 a.m Senior's Yoga at the Columbia Valley Centre $2 drop in, open to all seniors

• 10:00 a.m.-noon: Pickleball Club drop -in play

• 3 p.m.: Youth Drop -In at The Edge in Edgewater Youth grades 4-8 are invited to drop -in for fun with the Summit Youth Hub

• 4 p.m.: FREE Youth Drop-In Fun: LGBTQ+ Summit Youth Centre Hub For grades of 7-12, come to meet, hang out and enjoy your friends FREE fun! Mondays are for LGBTQ+ and allies!

• 5 p.m.: Industr y Night at the White House Pub in Windermere Free pool + cheap drinks for resor t and restaurant staff

• 6:30 p.m.: Pickleball Club open play

• 6:30 p.m.: Poker (Chip up for Charity) at the Station Pub Butter hosts poker night for a $20 buy-in.

• 6:30 p.m - 8:30 p.m.: Dynamic Archer y Speed Shooting Come tr y your hand at Archer y at Luxor Corrals Call 250-347-9048 to register

Tuesday, May 30

✰ May 30-June 2: Horse Archer y Clinic: in advance of the World Federation of Equestrian Archer y World Cup Competition happening June 3-4. The clinic is open to intermediate and advanced riding levels at Luxor Corrals Contac t Doug to learn more: 250-347-9048

✰ 6 p.m.: Gardening Basics Workshop Series at Groundswell: Composting and Pruning Visit groundswellnetwork.ca to learn more

• 9 a.m.: StrongStar t/C AP- C at Edgewater Elementar y Tuesdays and Thursdays, 9 - 11:30 am Join this free, drop -in program for children ages 0 to 5 and their caregivers

• 10 a.m.: Parent & Tot Connec t at Frater Landing Parents and their young children (ages 0-6) are invited to this FREE drop -in program!

• 10 a.m.-noon: Pickleball Club drop -in play

• 10:30 a.m.: Seniors Fitness Columbia Valley Centre on Tuesdays, $2 drop -in.

• 3 p.m.: FREE Youth Drop -In Fun at Summit Youth Centre Hub. For grades 7-12, come hang out and enjoy some great times with your friends FREE fun!

• 6:30 p.m.: Pickleball Club Skills and Drills

• 7 p.m.: 19+ Games Night Ullr Bar, $5/card Prizes and giveaways weekly

Wednesday, May 31

9 a.m. - 11 a.m.: StrongStar t Canal Flats Join this free, drop -in program for kids 0-5 and their caregivers Songs, stories, play centers, crafts, snacks, and more!

• 9:15 a.m. -11:45 a.m.: StrongStar t Ever y Monday & Friday Ever y 1st & 3rd Wednesday

10 a.m.: Parent & Tot Connec t Canal Flats Village Office Parents kids (ages 0-6) are invited to this FREE drop -in program!

• 10 a.m. - 11 a.m.: Seniors Yoga at the Columbia Valley Centre on Mondays & Wednesdays, $2 drop -in.

• 1 p.m.: Tennis Club at Kinsmen Beach Cour ts

3 p.m.: Youth Drop -In at The Edge Edgewater youth grades 4-8 can drop -in with the Summit Youth Hub at The Edge 3-8 p.m.

• 6 p.m. - 9 p.m.: Wednesday Dinners. Join us for dinner at the Legion. Members and guests welcome! Members enjoy a 10% discount!

• 6:30 p.m. Meat Draw and 50/50 at the Invermere Legion. Members and guests welcome

• 7 p.m.: Trivia Night at the Station Pub in Invermere! $5/player Max 6 players per team.

• 8 p.m.: Live Music: James Rose & Friends Ullr Bar. Ever y Wednesday at ULLR BAR

MLA shows support for Moose Hide

By Julia Magsombol Local Journalism Initiative julia@columbiavalleypioneer.com

"It's heartbreaking," said Doug Clovechok, a father and MLA of Columbia River-Revelstoke, whenever he hears the news about murdered Indigenous men, women, and children every day.

Clovechok has been supporting the Moose Hide Campaign — an Indigenous-led movement that addresses the ending of violence against women and children. e campaign has grown into a nationwide movement of Indigenous and non-Indigenous Canadians in our society.

Father-daughter duo Paul and Raven Lacerte founded the Moose Hide Campaign in 2011. Clovechok said that when Paul and Raven were hunting in the Carrier territory along the Highway of Tears, they shot a moose that day. ey had a powerful connection with it and the environment, and so, they both decided to take the moose hide. ey tagged it and made moose hide pins, which can be used to “commemorate and recognize the violence towards women and children,” Clovechok said. See https://www.thecanadianencyclopedia.ca/en/article/highwayof-tears.

e campaign grew and over three million pins were distributed throughout Canada.

e MLA has been supporting the movement for six years now. He said there are many reasons why he chose to support the campaign.

"I told my son that when you have anything to do with women, you [should] have respect and show respect," Clovechok said. "I strongly believe violence is not acceptable. When you see something, you've got to say something. We can't ac-

cept it in our society."

During COVID, the abuse and murder cases of Indigenous women and children heightened in Canada. Read www. ohchr.org/sites/default/files/2022-01/canada-native-women-2.pdf

“When I see a man raising his hand to a woman, it just makes me sick to my stomach,” Clovechok stressed.

For all the victims, Clovechok wanted to tell them that they're "not alone" and that many people "support and believe" them — there is help for everyone.

Clovechok strongly believes that the only way to end the violence is to support this kind of campaign and to start educating children.

" e true measure of a man, in my humble opinion, is how well they respect and treat women — their mother, their sisters, their children, and everyone," Clovechok said.

As a supporter, Clovechok marched with over half a million Canadians last May 11 on the 12th annual Moose Hide Campaign Day. He described the march and campaign as an “excellent” and “humbling” experience, especially when he was around the people who believed what he believed in. He also described how it's impressive to see many people who support this campaign. e campaign was held in Victoria, with the procession led by First Nation drummers.

" e energy around there was incredibly positive, and many people feel really good about it," Clovechok noted. "It's a start, and we have a long way to go. But we're moving in the right direction."

Clovechok stated that he will wear the Moose Hide pin for a year to show his support and remind him of his commitment in doing all he can to prevent violence against women and children.

Radium Transfer Sta tion

Informa tional Open House

Residents of Area G and the Village of Radium are invited to an Informational Open House regarding the new Radium Transfer Station, which will be under construc tion later this year

Tuesday, May 30 | 5pm – 7pm

Radium Hot Springs Centre – 4863 Stanley Street, Radium Hot Springs

The Open House will be an informal, drop -in format where people can view the proposed site plan, learn more about the many new rec ycling ser vices that will be offered at the site, talk to staff and have their questions answered.

For more information, visit engage.rdek.bc.ca or call the RDEK .

"I will continue to support it and to talk about it. at's my pledge to the pin," Clovechok stated. "I will wear that pin with great pride but also with much responsibility."

For more information about the campaign, visit: https://moosehidecampaign.

ca/. e following are numbers to call if people need help: Battered Women's Support Services Crisis Line (1-855-6871868); Kids Help Phone (1-800-6686868); Reporting child abuse (1-800663-9122); Youth Against Violence Line: (1-800-680-4264).

Pursuant to Sec tion 286 of the Local Government Ac t, notice is hereby given that the Regional Distric t of East Kootenay disposing a por tion of the following land to Wink Wireless (Licensee) to install, operate and maintain a telecommunication tower and equipment

A por tion of, Block 10 Plan NEP1185 Distric t Lot 353 Kootenay Distric t Parcel A, (See XK35582) (the “Land”)

The Land is more commonly known as the Edgewater Fire Hall The licensing agreeme nt will be for a term of 5 years for a fee of $1 00 for the term of the licence, including provisions for the RDEK to attach communications equipment to the telecommunication tower for the purposes of emergenc y ser vices, with no charges to the RDEK. Additional fees and charges will be required to be paid by the Licensee for a monthly rental payment and power consumption

Any inquiries concerning this disposition may be direc ted to: Tina Hlushak, Corporate Officer, at 250- 489-27 91 or thlushak@rdek.bc.ca

More than half a million Canadians took part in the 12th annual Moose Hide Day campaign to end violence against women and children.

Photos submitted

Little Blue Libraries added in Radium

By Steve Hubrecht steve@columbiavalleypioneer.com

Reading in Radium got a little bit easier last week, thanks to the Friends of the Radium Library.

e nonprofit group, formed two years ago to support the Radium Hot Springs Public Library, spearheaded efforts that saw two Little Blue Libraries installed in the village on Tuesday, May 16.

A brand new free library box was installed by Radium Brewing, on the village’s main street and another new (and much bigger) free library box was put up in place of the longstanding smaller one on the Sable Ridge pathway near the Rotary Garden.

Plans are afoot for the small one to be moved to a location in north Radium, likely near the Copper Horn Village apartments.

“We felt that Radium is growing and expanding. ere are more residents, and there are more visitors,” Friends of the Radium Library chair Linda Maurer told the Pioneer. With all the extra people in the village “people are walking around Radium all the time now. So these

(the Little Blue Libraries) give them a chance to pick up a book while out and about in town.”

e boxes look a bit like literary birdhouses, with sloping, shingled roofs and glass-and-wood doors. ey sit at roughly chest height (for an adult) and are an unmissable shade of turquoise baby blue.

Each Little Blue Library can hold at least 30 books, and quite possibly more (Friends of the Library volunteers have yet to really test the boxes’ maximum capacity by jamming in as many books as they can). For the Sable Ridge pathway Little Blue Library the new capacity of 30-plus books is a big jump from the 20 books that fit in the older, smaller box, which had been in place for more than a decade.

Maurer said it was high time to replace the older Sable Ridge path library box, not just because it had been subject to a fair bit of wear and tear, but because it no longer seemed capable of holding enough tomes to satisfy the public’s reading demands.

“We have a volunteer looking after it and they had to go every Friday, just to keep it filled,” said Maurer. “It was clear we needed something bigger.”

Once discussion started on that idea, the Friends quickly decided there should also be a Little Blue Library somewhere uptown as well. e spot at Radium Brewing fits that bill perfectly, explained Maurer. “It’s very accessible and very easily seen by passersby,” she noted.

said Maurer. e larger size of the Little Blue Libraries even allows some coffee table books to be put in.

Radium Hot Springs Public Library director Jacqueline Kozak and library board vice-chair Anne Jardine issued a joint statement expressing their gratitude to the Friends of the Radium Library as well as to the many businesses and individuals involved in this project.

“ e Friends are a hard-working, dedicated team of individuals. ey put a tremendous amount of time and effort into finding the resources, community partners, and convenient locations for the Little Blue Libraries. We hope people will enjoy them,” said Kozak and Jardine.

e Friends of the Radium Library also extended thanks to the businesses, organizations, and individuals who sponsored, donated to, or otherwise helped with the Little Blue Libraries.

e nonprofit group will be holding an ‘adventure auction’ starting this July as a fundraiser for the library. is event will see a number of local businesses donating something to be auctioned off. e catch is that members of the public will need to visit each business in person to find out exactly what is up for auction (not unlike a sort of giant, village-wide, in-person scavenger hunt).

“It will help people realize what our businesses here in Radium have to offer, as well as help the library,” said Maurer.

P O Box 340, 4836 Radium Blvd, Radium Hot Springs, B C , 250-347-6455

Accessibility Committee

The Village of Radium Hot Springs is recruiting people with lived and learned accessibility experience to join our Accessibility Committee that has been created in suppor t of the Accessible BC Act. We are also looking for members who represent the diversity of British Columbia, including those who are Indigenous Committee members will work together to:

• Identify, prevent and eliminate barriers to accessibility and inclusion for people with disabilities;

• Contribute to development of an Accessibility Plan for our organization

To meet legislated deadlines, the Committee will meet in-person, as required, until the Accessibility Plan is adopted by Council later this year Following adoption of the Plan, meetings will be as needed This is a 3-year term, and is a voluntar y position, with no monetar y compensation.

For more information, or to receive an application form, please visit the Village website at www radiumhotsprings ca, or contact Jill Logan, Corporate Officer, at corporate@radiumhotsprings ca, p 250-347-6455 ext 4, by May 29th, 2023

e two new Little Blue Libraries will be well stocked with “a really good variety of reading — historical books, fiction, nonfiction, autobiographies, and children’s books. We try to have something for everyone,”

Stay tuned to future issues of the Pioneer for more information on that event. In the meantime, check out the Friends of the Radium Library Facebook page to find out more about the group, or contact them at friendsoftheradiumlibrary@gmail.com.

Reality: Develop a good campaign, or theme for your ads. Stick with that one campaign, and only make small changes of headlines or details. Call Jamie at 250-341-6299 to nd out more.

Radium Hot Springs Mayor Mike Gray is shown cutting the ribbon with Linda and Dan Maurer of the Friends of the Radium Library.

Photo submitted

Myth: Change your ads all the time. Readers get tired of the same thing.

P IONEER C LASSIFIEDS

A public celebration of life is being held at the Invermere Legion on June 3 at 1:00 pm refreshments to follow.

Sweet

station wagon VIN 2GKFLTEK8D6244283 owned by the estate of Brian Zavitz of Invermere

Storage Fees owed to Scheffer Foods Ltd of Invermere in the amount of $1,188.00

In an effort to recoup the storage fees owing the above vehicle will be put up for sale June 1, 2023 at 401 Laurier Street Ahalmer BC V0A 1K5

We are moving to Kinsmen Beach and are expanding our hours and services!

We are moving to Kinsmen Beach and are expanding our hours and services!

Cool Treats and Hot Coffee Bar

Wages are determined on you!

Offering $20-$25/hr + tips

* Must be 18+, have driver ’s icense

* Must be responsib e, reliable, fr endly and energet c

* Must be able to work a one and maintain a fast-paced rout ne with a smile

Please send resume and cover letter describing why you are worth $25/hr SweetMountainIce@gmail com

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

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

Quali cations

• Journalism education: degree, diploma or certi cate; or equivalent work experience.

• Valid driver’s license and reliable vehicle.

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

• Experience in InDesign, Photoshop, and posting to social media. e company o ers competitive bene t and pension plans.

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

HELP WANTED

EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY Maintenance SUPERVISOR

Mission

To add a qualified tradesman that can par ticipate, coordinate and schedule a variety of maintenance jobs related to public works, grounds, building maintenance and housing

Who Are You?

You may have a red seal cer tificate or just a knack for general maintenance You are a self star ter that can work independently or lead a team No job is too small for you and you take pride in all the work you do You enjoy building relationships and collaborating with others while keeping safety a top priority Organizing and scheduling come natural to you

What Will You Do?

With direction from the Manager of Public Works and Utilities, you will collaborate with sub-trades and work closely with different depar tments to help diagnose and repair issues within your capacity and oversee general maintenance on Reser ve (ie: mowing, snow shoveling, sign installations etc) As super visor, you will be working closely with a small team and be responsible for scheduling your own work and providing mentorship to your team

Responsibilities

Per form general maintenance work for facilities, buildings, grounds, and equipment

• Per form regular preventative maintenance and inspections

Snow removal and sanding

• Build furniture or office equipment

• Small building repairs like dr y wall, painting, carpentr y

Troubleshoot issues in Shuswap Band member homes such as plumbing, electrical, and heating

• Deliver wood to Elders, and those with Disabilities

Set up and tear down for community events or staff functions

• Per form other duties as requested by Shuswap depar tments and the Director of Lands, Public Works and Utilities

Qualifications

Minimum grade 12 education and relevant work experience

• Red Seal Trades cer tificate is an asset

• Maintenance or Construction Experience

Leadership Experience

• Possess a cell phone

Holds and maintains a valid driver’s license with reliable transpor tation to and from work

• Can provide a clear criminal record check

Personal Attributes

Proven ability to trouble shoot and apply solutions

• Organized and Calculated

• Leader and self star ter

Physically Fit

• Demonstrate efficient use of various power and hand tools

• Communicate efficiently both written and orally

Knowledge of tools, lawn mowers, weed eaters, and wood splitter

• Ability to safely maneuver haul trailer

• Good interpersonal skills and the ability to build relationships with stakeholders, including Council, staff, membership, and external contractors

Schedule Compensation Conditions of work

This is a full-time, year-round oppor tunity star ting as soon as possible

32 5 hours a week, Monday to Friday On call availability will be required

Salar y ranges from $30 00-42 00 per hour depending on tickets and experience

We offer a wide variety of perks including:

• Employer matched pension plan after 3 months

Company Vehicle provided for use during office hours

• Extensive health and benefits package

• Bi-weekly healthy food box

Dynamic work environment

• Christmas Break Paid Leave (2 weeks)

How to Apply

We value diversity and welcome all qualified candidates to apply Employment and promotion of an Indigenous person or Shuswap Band members will be administered in a fair and reasonable manner and is consistent with the Canadian Human Rights Commission Polic y on “Aboriginal Employment Preference.”

If interested, please apply to sstump@shuswapband ca by June 30, 2023 Only qualified candidates will be contacted.

SHUTTER BUGS

CASHIERS/PRODUCE CLERKS POSITIONS AVAILABLE

Risk of violence low in schools, says district

Columbia Valley Pioneer Staff

As School District 6 annually assesses the risk of violence to schools, Rocky Mountain administrators believe the current “risk level is low.

GARAGE SALES

BUSINESS SERVICES

In a May 9 report by Superintendent Karen Shipka and District Health and Safety Officer Surrena Craig, the district is prepared by recognizing and mitigating the risk of violence, whether it be physical, verbal or psychological.

In the past two years, each school in the district has completed their own risk assessments, which evaluate circumstances and locations that may present a danger. is is followed up by mitigation and prevention. Shipka said this is a WorkSafe BC requirement for all workplaces, noting the district offers training and support to students and staff in terms of recognizing the risks.

“After each incident, a debrief is held and we learn how to better our response,” Shipka said, adding, “In the past few years, we have initiated safety protocols such as lockdown, as needed or when directed by the local RCMP.”

In 2021, Columbia Valley schools were in lockdown after a youth had brandished a handgun outside David ompson Secondary School (DTSS). e youth was subsequently apprehended by the RCMP who seized the firearm which turned out to be a replica.

In 2019 a DTSS student posed a video of himself with a gun and a message saying ‘don’t come to school tomorrow’ on social media, which led to his arrest and an investigation.

Shipka said the systems they have in place have recognized the risks and responded quickly to reduce or eliminate them.

“ e risk level for schools in School District 6 is considered low,” she stated, noting that all schools practice six fire drills, two lockdown and two hold and secure drills annually. She added that all drills are documented and individual safety or evacuation plans are created.

Shipka said the district will be launching an emergency preparedness and response webpage on its website. e superintendent said the district works closely with local RCMP to ensure their practices are current and appropriate for the risk. “ is includes keeping all exterior doors locked except the front door.” Unless directed to lock the front door, it is important that we have a safe access point for staff and students to enter if there are external risks (wild animals or environmental factors) that may put students or staff at risk of harm.”

Shipka said their focus is being proactive, not reactive.

FIREWOOD

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

ACREAGE FOR SALE

“ e key to violence prevention is recognizing the risk and behaviours associated with violence. Violence prevention is everyone’s responsibility,” she said. e risk level for violence in

We’re looking for hardworking, energetic and reliable people just like you!

Canada built by young people

Fresh old ideas

By Arnold Malone Pioneer Columnist

Across Canada students will soon graduate from high school. Given the views of some adults, young people might feel as if they are unprepared for the world. ey are so young. ey just got out of school. ey may be conditioned to believe that they do not have the experience to be effective in the adult world.

Forget such nonsense. Canada was built by young people. roughout our long human history young people have accomplished amazing achievements. Short years ago the word ‘adolescence’ did not exist. You were either a child or an adult. So, grads never believe that you can’t be doers and achievers. In fact, so much of what has already been achieved was done by the young.

Our first Prime Minister, Sir John A. MacDonald was just 16 years old when he was articling in law in Kingston, Ontario. At age 17 he was in charge of a branch office. He was elected as a representative to the province of Canada – now Ontario – at the young age of 29. He along with George Brown were major drafters of the British North America Act that formed our framework for nationhood.

William Van Horne, the powerful general manager in the building of the Canadian Pacific Railway that kept British Columbia in Confederation, was working with railways at the age of 14.

It is unlikely that many today would know about E. B. Eddy. However, your grandparents sure did. He was once a part of every Canadian kitchen. He was making matches in his home basement when he was 16. He grew

to become a lumber baron at an early age.

Bill Gates dropped out of Harvard University at age 20 to start Microsoft; Mark Zuckerberg developed Facebook at age 19; Louis Braille designed the braille language at age 16; Malala Yousafzai won the Nobel Peace Prize at age 17; Wayne Gretzky was playing NHL hockey at age 17; Jacob Barnett, an astrophysicist, gave one of the most reviewed Ted Talks at age 14.

Nellie Bly wrote an angry letter to the editor in response to an article “What are girls good for?” e editor was so impressed that he offered her a job. She accepted.

She was an investigative journalist at age 17. At age 21 she was a foreign correspondent. At age 23, after pretending that she was insane, she exposed the cruel inhumane treatment that took place in mental institutions. She concluded her career working for Joseph Pulitzer.

No comment on the success of youth would be complete without mentioning one of the greatest young achievers, David ompson. ompson grew up in Wales. His father died when he was two years old. He was a whiz at mathematics and in the use of a sextant. At age 13 he left Wales to come to the frontier of Canada and never saw his mother again. At age 14 he was working for North West Company and later with the Hudson Bay Company. He became North America’s greatest explorer.

In the USA great credit is given to Lewis and Clark. David ompson did everything right that Lewis and Clark did wrong. He was a superb map maker, he made friends with First Nations, learned the language of several tribes, traded with honest respect and was married to a native lady, Charlotte, for 57 years. His maps are so precise that one can, today, travel the North Saskatchewan River and know your location. He mapped 4.9 million square kilometres from Lake Superior to the Pacific. He was a giant in the formation of Canada.

Today’s young stand at the doorway of the future; they are the new builders. So, go and make the best better. You have everything you need.

Elk not aggressive but elusive

By Julia Magsombol Local Journalism Initiative julia@columbiavalleypioneer.com

I visited Elk Island National Park recently. After reading some science books, my younger brother suddenly wanted to see wildlife, especially elk. It’s funny because we’ve never seen one here in Alberta – and maybe because most of them can be found in British Columbia. Visit www.deerbusterscanada.ca/blogs/news/what-is-canadas-elk-population

It’s safe to visit wildlife in the park. You only stay inside your car and you drive around, then you can see them from afar.

Our trip didn’t last long. We didn’t see any elk on that day. One of the caretakers stopped our car and said, “there’s a lot of visitors today, they’re probably hiding…. they see humans as predators.”

British Columbia was the province with the second highest number of wild animal attacks, according to SportingPedia, with 293 from 2010 to 2021. For more information see www.stalbertgazette.com/local-news/ elk-most-lilkely-to-attack-in-alberta-report-6608806.

Spring is also the elk’s calving season — where most elk mothers will aggressively protect their newborns by kicking and circling people who are near them. See https://parks.canada.ca/pn-np/ab/jasper/securite-safety/ faune-wildlife/wapiti-elk.

e elk population in Canada has decreased due

to hunting. Canadian licensed hunters harvest approximately 4,000 elk each year. Because of this, elk have become more fearful of humans. Just like humans, they will only attack to protect themselves or their offspring. ey will fear those who have the capability to hurt them.

We decided to leave the park after not seeing any wildlife and learned that elk are elusive.

But after driving along the exit, an elk showed up! My dad stopped the car on the side of the road and many motorists followed suit. We were in awe and took a picture of that one elk that was eating grass peacefully.

For more information, visit: https://www.env.gov.bc. ca/wld/documents/elk.pdf.

LAKE WINDERMERE ALLIANCE CHURCH

Now

• www.lwac.ca

the zoom link, please visit our website ( Windermere Valley Shared Ministr y). 110 - 7th Ave. in Invermere.

L L E Y C H R I S T I A N A S S E M B L Y Sunday 10 a.m. Worship ser vice 4814 Highway Drive, Windermere 250-342-9511 • www.valleychristianonline.com

R O M A N C A T H O L I C C H U R C H St Anthony’s, Canal Flats., Canadian Martyrs’

Invermere, St Joseph’s – Radium

Canal Flats: Saturday, 4 p.m. Canadian Martyrs, Invermere: Saturday 5 p.m., Sunday 9 a.m. St. Joseph, Radium: Sunday 11 a.m.

Father Jojo Augustine • 712 -12th Ave., Invermere 250-342-6167

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

Sunday 10 a.m. Worship service

Pastor Wayne and Linda Frater • 250-342-6633 No 4, 7553 Main St Radium • 250-347-9937

Worship Service, Sunday, 10 a.m Relief Society, 11:15 a.m President Kendyn Mackensie • Columbia Valley Branch • 5014 Fair way, Fairmont Hot Springs 250-439-9041

CHURCH OF CHRIST (Iglesia ni Cristo)

Worship Ser vice: 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

Upcoming FireSmar t™ Events

E D G E WAT E R – Communit y Debris Bin

May 26 – June 9 | Edgewater

This goal of this event is to give residents in the Edgewater area a more convenient place to dispose of yard waste as the usual spring clean-up happens The bin will accept materials up to 8 inches in diameter and be left out for t wo weeks so that residents are able to drop debris off on a schedule that works best for them. The green bin will be loca ted in the parking lot on Sinclair Street, southeast of the post office

More info: RDEK Local FireSmar t Representative: Thomas Dobbin at 250-342-6214 or tdobbin@rdek.bc.c a

W I N D E R B E R R Y / E D I B L E A C R E S – FireSmar t Landscaping Event

May 28, 12:00 PM | Winderberr

y/Edible Acres,1681 Hw y

93/95

FireSmar t BC Landscape Exper t, Karla Hoffman, will be making a presentation on FireSmar t landscaping and gardening. She has designed, installed, and maintained landscapes – from small residential sites, to commercial, universit y, and municipal grounds and will offer some insight on where to star t when beginning your FireSmar t gardening and landscaping journey

More info: RDEK Local FireSmar t Representative: Thomas Dobbin at 250-342-6214 or tdobbin@rdek.bc.c a

B A LTA C – Communit y Chipping Event

May 29 – June 12 | Baltac

Residents are encouraged to use this oppor tunit y to dispose of tree and shrub materials from spring clean-up Materials are to be placed on the road at the end of your driveway and they will be picked up for chipping on June 13.

More info: RDEK Local FireSmar t Representative: Thomas Dobbin at 250-342-6214 or tdobbin@rdek.bc.c a

CO LU M E R E PA R K – Communit y Chipping Event

May 29 (material collec tion day) | Columere

This is the 6th annual wildfire risk reduc tion in Columere Material will be collec ted May 29.

More info: FireSmar t Neighbourhood Champion: Ken Joyce at columerefiresmar t@gmail.com

RDEK Local FireSmar t Representative: Thomas Dobbin at 250-342-6214 or tdobbin@rdek.bc.c a

I N D I A N B E A C H E S TAT E S – Communit y Work Bee & Chipping Event

June 3, 9:00 AM – 2:00 PM | Indian Beach Estates

Volunteers and neighbours will be working together to remove flammable vegetation from their neighbourhood in order to increase their wildfire resilienc y The communit y will meet at the IBE Pump House to star t the day Please bring gloves and safet y glasses A representative from the East Kootenay FireSmar t Program will be in attendance

More info: FireSmar t Neighborhood Champion: John Conley at 403-771-6911 Local FireSmar t Representative: Yvan K athriner at 250-919-8567

E A S T KO O T E N AY

–

RDEK Agricultural Wildfire Preparedness Forum

June 3, 9:30 AM – 3:00 PM | Wasa Hotel –

For t Steele Heritage Town

The East Kootenay FireSmar t program in collaboration the Kootenay Livestock Association will be hosting the RDEK Agricultural Wildfire Preparedness Forum, focusing on emergenc y preparedness for wildfire events as it relates to farms and ranches. The day will include guest speakers, door prizes, demonstrations, testimonials, as well as discussion on wildfire risk mitigation, animal-related emergencies, and suppor t systems available Lunch and refreshments to be provided Registra tion required by 12:00 pm on May 31 (RSVP to kla@kootenaylivestock.ca).

More info: Kootenay Livestock Association: Tanya Molle at kla@kootenaylivestock.c a

Local FireSmar t Representative: Carla Hayday at rocky wildfireresilience@gmail.com

For more info visit: engage.rdek.bc.c a/firesmar t