Invermere Valley Echo, September 16, 2015

VE

The Invermere

ALLEY A CHO

A 30-foot teepee, erected outside the old Shuswap Indian Band office on September 9th for a cultural lesson, has been attracting a lot of attention. The Shuswap Indian Band expects to buy more teepees for cultural and tourism purposes in the near future.

PHOTO BY NICOLE TRIGG

the

lum

r 16 e b m e t p Se 2015

8

3 Vo l u s . 59 Is

Norm’s amazing recovery continues

7

BERNIE RAVEN CHRIS RAVEN 1-866-598-7415 TEAMRAVEN.CA Offices in Panorama, Invermere & Fairmont

work ahead for 10 Hard the Rockies

1

$

05 INCLUDES GST

Maxwell Realty Invermere

PUBLICATIONS MAIL REGISTRATION NO. 7856

School district starting to explore new curriculum BREANNE MASSEY breanne@invermerevalleyecho.com A new education guide has been printed and the B.C. government expects to see it in classrooms very soon.

The Aboriginal Worldviews and Perspectives in the Classroom: Moving Forward resource booklet was recently announced by Minister of Aboriginal Relations and Reconciliation John Rustad on behalf of Minister of Education Mike Bernier at the annual B.C. Cabinet-First Nations Leaders’ Gathering in Vancouver on Wednesday, September 9th.

It is expected the booklet will help teachers find ways to incorporate Aboriginal content into schools in every subject and every grade.

“It is vital that Aboriginal history is included in our school curriculum to educate our youth on Aboriginal culture and ensure the legacy of residential schools is not forgotten,” said Rustad.

“This guide is not only an important is being taught in the classroom to help step toward helping our children un- our children appreciate, understand derstand the Aboriginal perspective, and value the importance of Aboriginal but also a step towards reconciliation.” culture and history.”

The booklet is based on key themes Rocky Mountain School District No. 6 — including relationships; language superintendent Paul Carriere believes and culture; community engagement; the new resource will be valuable with engagement with the land, nature, the respect to putting First Nations culoutdoors; history; loture, history Aboriginal perspectives and perspeccal focus; emphasis on identity; power tive into conand world views of story; experiential text between are more woven into the education; and tradiboth students tional teaching — and curriculum as a whole. and teachers.

PAUL CARRIERE, SUPERINTENDENT is geared toward in“It’s an imROCKY MOUNTAIN SCHOOL DISTRICT troducing revised curportant rericulum into B.C. schools over the next source that is intended to accompany three years. changes in the new K to 9 curriculum, “Teaching our kids about Aboriginal which is going to be implemented in history and culture is critical to strength- 2016-17,” said Carriere. “This year is the ening our relationships, communities exploratory year for teachers to sort of and province. This new resource pro- get into the curriculum and learn about vides teachers with the framework they it — that resource is intended to help need to ensure that Aboriginal content facilitate that process.”

“And to support that, on October 23rd, we will be pulling together some teachers and our (Aboriginal educators) in the district to begin unpacking that resource and decide what materials we need to order as a district to go forward with it, to be housed by our district resource centre, so that schools can book out more resources and materials to help the process of integrating more of this content into the curriculum,” he added.

While the old curriculum included short snapshots of history in social studies, Carriere said the new curriculum will include a wide variety of subjects.

“In the old curriculum, the one that’s being phased out, you would see discreet pieces of information about Aboriginal peoples that were part of the Social Studies curriculum,” he explained. “Now what we’re seeing is those pieces are still there, but Aboriginal See A4

Two Concerts at Pynelogs What does ART mean to you?

Don Alder LIVE – Sept 17th at 7 pm Valley Sessions – Sat Sept 19th at 7 pm

Visit columbiavalleyarts.com for our current events calendar, or call 250-342-4423.

Happy BirtHday to pynelogs!

1914 - 2014

Celebrating 100 years

A2 invermerevalleyecho.com

Wednesday, September 16, 2015 The Valley Echo

Lake Windermere Pulse Check* www.lakeambassadors.ca

Strong winds kept us off the water last week, but on September 8th, Shelley and Dolores were determined to get out on the water — wind, rain or shine. Bracing ourselves against a few whitecaps, we resolved to monitor the North site at Timber Ridge.

Our determination was rewarded by a sighting of a large black bear on the opposite shore near the public boat launch. Water temperature was a chilly 14 C and turbidity readings were low.

Said volunteer Dolores Rose of the day: “It was wonderful to learn about water quality monitoring, such a pleasure to be on the lake even in bad weather!”

Both Shelley and Dolores were fantastic sports about the difficult conditions, and the whole crew had a great time despite being soaked through with spray by the end!

If you have any questions about water quality in the Lake Windermere watershed, please contact the Lake Windermere Ambassadors at 250-341-6898 or info@lakeambassadors.ca.

Volunteers of the Week: Shelley Shoemaker and Dolores Rose, Invermere, B.C.

20 15 CANADA VOTES!

Candidates schedules full with forums STEVE HUBRECHT steve@invermerevalleyecho.com With the federal election looming, a number of allcandidate forums are slated to run in the KootenayColumbia riding, with most of them featuring almost all the local candidates.

The Chambers of Commerce in eight communities across the riding are holding an all-candidates forums, and in a ninth — Revelstoke — a forum is being cooperatively organized by three local media outlets.

Another two forums have been organized by other groups — one in Cranbrook by the Junior Chamber International and the other in Nelson by the MIR Centre and Citizens’ Climate Lobby.

The first nine will feature Conservative candidate David Wilks, NDP candidate Wayne Stetski, Liberal candidate Don Johnston and Green candidate Bill Green.

The Echo attempted to contact Libertarian candidate Christina Yahn to find out which forums she will attend, but was unable to get such confirmation prior to press deadline.

Johnston, Green and Stetski also confirmed they will attend the other two forums, while Wilks’ campaign manager Jim Abbott confirmed Wilks won’t.

“We are going to nine locations for forums or debates that have been organized by non-partisan or non-aligned organizations,” said Abbott, adding that he doesn’t consider the Junior Chamber International to be a partisan or aligned organization, but that the date of that forum is close to the date of the Cranbrook

Chamber of Commerce forum, and Wilks’ busy schedule leaves him unable to attend both.

“I’m really pleased with the response we’ve had. We had invitations out to all the local Chambers to organize forums right when the writ was dropped, and eight of the nine Chambers have agreed,” said Abbott, adding that in the one community — Revelstoke — in which the Chamber could not organize a forum, the town’s three news outlets stepped in to fill that role.

“I have said from the very beginning that I would debate Wilks at any opportunity, and he has done the right thing by agreeing to attend at least some of these debates,” said Stetski. “I’m disappointed that Wilks chose not to attend the MIR Centre forum on security, peace and climate change in Nelson. These are the critical issues of our time, and as such, any person who is asking to represent us as an MP should be willing to put forward their thoughts and opinions. I am looking forward to meeting people, taking questions, and engaging in issues across the riding. And I’m really pleased that so many opportunities to meet directly with young people are being organized.”

Johnston took a similar position, saying he was disappointed that Wilks will not be attending the MIR Centre forum.

“I immediately accepted that invitation. My international development work and the Liberal history of accomplishment in this area are something I look forward to discussing,” he said, adding his goal in going to as many forums as possible is “to ensure every See A4

Find a job you love.

CONFIRMED KOOTENAY-COLUMBIA FORUMS

Tuesday, September 15th Kaslo Chamber of Commerce Wednesday, September 16th MIR Centre and Citizen’s Climate Lobby (Nelson) Monday, September 21st Revelstoke News Coalition Tuesday, September 22nd Kicking Horse Chamber of Commerce Thursday, September 24th Nelson Chamber of Commerce Monday, September 28th Columbia Valley Chamber of Commerce Wednesday, September 30th Kimberley Chamber of Commerce Thursday, October 1st Creston Valley Chamber of Commerce Monday, October 5th Elk Valley Chamber of Commerce Tuesday, October 6th Junior Chamber International (Cranbrook) Wednesday, October 7th Cranbrook Chamber of Commerce

invermerevalleyecho.com A3

Wednesday, September 16, 2015 The Valley Echo

CANADA VOTES 20 15!

Verifying voter registration online could come with glitches STEVE HUBRECHT steve@invermerevalleyecho.com Upper Columbia Valley residents wanting to make sure they are on the registered voters list for the upcoming federal election can do so online, but there may be a few small glitches on the way.

Following a report from an Invermere resident that electronically verifying they were on the registered voters list became a 45-minute process — likely due to an Elections Canada error listing Invermere addresses as Avenues when they should be Streets — The Echo contacted the organization to find out how common such occurrences may or may not be.

Elections Canada Cranbrook assistant returning officer Bill Cleand referred The Echo to the organization’s Ottawa office (which directly handles websiterelated matters), but said such an error would not prevent anybody from voting.

“It wouldn’t be a problem on election day,” said Cleand. “And we’d be happy to take care of anybody who has any such issue in our offices, which are in Golden, Cranbrook and Nelson.”

Cleand added voters could alternately call 1-888308-8683.

Elections Canada media contact Dorothy Sitek extended apologies to anybody experiencing any inconveniences while going online to verify his or her voter registration.

She couldn’t speak to the particular case of the Invermere resident, but advised anybody experiencing any difficulties to immediately contact the office of a returning officer.

“A lot of people are using the (online) system and most of them are successfully completing the process,” she said. “I went on, did it, and I took about a minute.”

Most of the Kootenay-Columbia MP candidates, or in some cases their campaign managers, said a few of these kinds of instances do tend to happen, and encouraged voters to proactively get registered as early as possible so that, if such kinks arise, they can easily be ironed out in time.

Conservative campaign manager Jim Abbott (for MP candidate David Wilks) was previously the riding’s MP from 1993 to 2011 and, through the six election campaigns he was part of then, he saw similar glitches about a half dozen to a dozen times each election.

“Maybe not precisely this issue, but things like it.

Yes, they would crop up. What happens in these cases is that people get referred back to Elections Canada to sort it out,” he said.

“There are some historic issues with addresses on the voters lists. For example, confusion between Street and Avenue, or with North and South, which are fairly minor. But these issues make online data searches more difficult. This is why I encourage everyone to confirm their registration now so they have time to correct any problems well before they intend to vote,” said NDP campaign manager Joy Orr (for MP candidate Wayne Stetski).

“I find it disheartening that it can be difficult to verify if you are on the voters list,” said Liberal candidate Don Johnston. “Voting needs to made as easy as it can be. It is one of the most fundamental rights we have.”

Johnston offered the same advice as Orr, saying “Check early and make sure you are properly registered to vote.”

“We’ve heard from voters that the online voter registration system is fraught with difficulties. It’s a good idea if it works well, but there must be other options available too. Green Party leader Elizabeth May proposed 75 amendments to the Conservative government’s so-called Fair Elections Act when it was debated in the House of Commons last spring. It’s a bad piece of legislation as it stands,” said Green MP candidate Bill Green. “Elections Canada will be advising people how they can register and what’s required to vote under the new rules. But when? I haven’t seen anything yet. Stephen Harper’s early election call clearly caught Elections Canada off guard.

“I encourage any voter in Kootenay-Columbia to call my campaign office at 250-354-2948 for assistance if they are having trouble getting registered. We can help.”

The Echo also contacted Libertarian candidate Christina Yahn for comment on the matter, but was unable to reach her for comment prior to press deadline.

To vote, you must be a Canadian citizen (not a Canadian permanent resident or a Canadian temporary resident); 18 years or older; a resident of the electoral district in which you are voting; and

on the list of registered voters.

It does not matter how long you have been a resident of your electoral district, as long as you have proof of your residency there.

Once you are registered to vote, you will be sent a voter identification card which contains the information about which poll you’ve been assigned to.

“For the federal election, you must vote at the poll you are assigned to,” said Ms. Sitek.

To vote, you need to have proof of your identity, defined as a government-issued piece of identification with your name and your residential address; or two pieces of identification, one of which has your name, the other of which has your name and your address — such as B.C. Hydro bill; or two pieces of identification with only your name plus be accompanied by another eligible voter who lives in your electoral district who can vouch that you live where you say you do.

Keep in mind that each Canadian citizen can vouch for no more than one other Canadian citizen.

Go to www.elections.ca and select “Am I registered to vote?” to verify you are a registered voter.

Moved recently?

Make sure you’re ready to vote.

Federal election day is Monday, October 19.

Are you registered to vote?

Most voters are already registered. But if you’ve moved recently or are planning a move before election day, you may need to update your address.

With an up-to-date registration, you’ll get: • a personalized voter information card that tells you when and where to vote • faster service at the polls Check and update your registration at elections.ca today, or call 1-800-463-6868 ( TTY 1-800-361-8935).

Elections Canada has all the information you need to be ready to vote.

A4 invermerevalleyecho.com

Wednesday, September 16, 2015 The Valley Echo

COUNCILBRIEFS

Annual General Meeting Invermere invests Wednesday September 16 , 7 p.m. in heavy equipment Columbia Valley Cycling Society

th

Lions Hall, behind the Columbia Valley Chamber of Commerce All welcome!

Steve Hubrecht steve@invermerevalleyecho.com

www.columbiavalleycyclingsociety.org

In partnership with

SAVE ANYWHERE. In partnership with In partnership with

SAVE SAVE ANYWHERE. ANYWHERE. ANYWHERE. In partnership with

The Invermere council agreed to buy a brand new wheel loader for the district at its most recent council meeting.

The new piece of equipment will be purchased from Great West Equipment for $234,000 and the decision to buy it — made during the Tuesday, September 8th meeting — comes after a search for used loaders that found prices to be surprisingly high.

“Also, if we’re going to get a new loader, we want to try to get as much life out of it as possible,” said Invermere mayor Gerry Taft, adding even if a good deal on a used loader could be found, the machine might only last another five years or so.

The new loader will come with a guaranteed lifespan of at least 6,000 hours, under warranty. The previous loader had lasted 15 years before going kaput.

SCHOOL from A1 perspectives and world views are more woven into the curriculum as a whole. For example, in Language Arts, you’ll see that students will study about written traditions and they will study about oral traditions, and the examples that will be used will be Aboriginal cultures and the way that oral traditions have been handed down in those culture — and that’s just one example.”

The resource will be available for viewing on the Ministry of Education’s website and the Aboriginal Education website.

It will also be provided to school districts across the province, which aligns with the education recommendations from the Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada.

However, students may not see the full effects of the change this school year, unless teachers work ahead to learn the new material and plan to test new methods for teaching it.

It will be required in 2016-17.

Debra Fisher, who is the Shuswap Indian Band education co-ordinator and a part-time David Thompson Secondary School (DTSS) Aboriginal education support worker, views the booklet as yet another useful tool to make education accessible to her students.

“Our school is already bringing the Aboriginal perspective into our subjects, so I think the transition will be smooth.”

DTSS Aboriginal education support worker Tracy Simpson agreed and added that the resources that are now being made available are geared towards connecting people, noting that nobody is being forced to learn.

“The onus is now on the province and the teachers to be mindful and make that part of the curriculum,” concluded Simpson.

To review the Aboriginal Worldviews and Perspectives in the Classroom resource booklet, visit www. bced.gov.bc.ca/abed/awp_moving_forward.pdf.

To see an explanation of the materials online, hover the mouse over bolded words.

Drone discussion Council also decided at the meeting to ask local phoIntroducing the New Save.ca Mobile Cash-Back Feature.

With exclusive offers for the brands you love & $5 cash-out minimums tographer Morgan Odland to a future Committee of through PayPal, you’ll never go shopping without your smart phone again!

Introducing the New Save.ca Mobile Cash-Back Feature. the Whole meeting to get more information on her reIntroducing the New Mobile Feature.

With exclusive offers for theSave.ca brands you loveCash-Back & $5 cash-out minimums With exclusive offersnever for thegobrands youwithout love & $5 cash-out minimums through PayPal, you’ll shopping your smart phone again! quest to fly a drone above Invermere for photography Introducing the New Save.ca Mobile Cash-Back Feature. through PayPal, neverBack go shopping yourSteps smart phone again!

Getyou’ll Cash in 3without Easy With exclusive offers for the brands you love & $5 cash-out minimums purposes. through PayPal, you’ll never go shopping without your smart phone again!

Cash Back inReceipt 3 Easy Steps 1. Browse &Get Shop 2. Upload 3. Get Cash Back!

Discussion among councillors centred on how much Get Cash Back in 3 Easy Steps Browse the mobile app Take a photo of your Once you reach just $5, 1. Browse & Shop 2.

Upload Receipt Get Cashyou Back! for your favourite brand’s andin submit it 3.the money save will Get Cash receipt Back 3 Easy Steps jurisdiction the district has to grant such requests, mobile app 2.Take a photo ofapp your Once youCash reach just $5,your 1.Browse Browse & Shop Upload Receipt 3.

Get Back! offers, andthe purchase through the be transferred into for your favourite receipt and submit it the money you save them at any storebrand’s PayPal wallet Browse the mobile app Take a photo of your Once you reach justwill $5, with several councillors saying that, from what they offers, and through the app be into your 1. Browse &purchase Shop Upload Receipt 3.transferred Get Cash for your favourite brand’s 2. receipt and submit it the money you saveBack! will them at any store PayPal wallet offers, purchase through the of app beOnce transferred into your Browse theand mobile app Take a photo your you reach just $5, understand, the district only has limited jurisdiction at anybrand’s store for yourthem favourite receipt and submit it the PayPal moneywallet you save will offers, and purchase through the app be transferred into your up to a certain height and above or even overlapping them at any store PayPal wallet that is the jurisdiction of Transport Canada.

Visit save.ca/cashback to Learn More Visit save.ca/cashback to Learn More Other councillors said there also might be some Visit save.ca/cashback to Learn More requirement to keep the Visit save.ca/cashback to Learn More drone out of the STARS flight path through Invermere Columere Waterworks Ltd. air space.

Notice of Application to the Comptroller of Water Rights See A6 Under the Water Utility Act and The Utilities Commission Act Notice is hereby given by Columere Waterworks Ltd that an application has been CANDIDATES from A2 made to the Comptroller of Water Rights for a Certificate of Public Convenience and Necessity for the proposed construction and operation of a waterworks distribution voter will be close enough to a venue to hear the positions and records of the system to serve residents in the area of candidates.”

Green held similar views, but added he feels that pre-submitting questions is not alSublot 1 District Lot 344 Kootenay District Except parts included in Plan 4411 and Plan EPP29926 (One residence only) ways the best way for voters to get to know their candidates.

“Voters must have the opportunity to question all candidates on every issue that is Any person wishing further information in connection with this application should important to them. That’s why I’m participating in every scheduled debate in the riding. apply directly to: I’m also open to events still in the planning stage, such as the proposed First Nations Columere Waterworks Ltd, 250-345-6163. debate in Cranbrook,” he said. “I welcome questions from the floor, but I understand Any objections to this application are to be forwarded to Rick Couroux, Secretary that some of the debates in our riding require that people submit their questions in to the Deputy Comptroller of Water Rights, Ministry of Environment, PO Box 9340 advance for screening. At other debates, organizers will send prepared questions to STN PROV GOVT, Victoria, BC V8W 9M1, or email Rick.Couroux@gov.bc.ca or fax candidates in advance. Some structure is necessary, of course, but I believe voters 250-953-5124 to be received in this office on or before should be allowed to assess their candidates in a spontaneous, unrehearsed setting.”

October 19th, 2015 The proposed First Nations debate had not been confirmed to be happening as of The Columere Waterworks Ltd. Echo’s press deadline, but the date being considered is Wednesday, September 23rd.

4512 Columbia View Rd, Fairmont BC, V0B 1L2

NOTICE OF APPLICATION

SUBSCRIPTION RATES Annual Subscription Rates (incl. tax)

• Local (Canal Flats to Spillimacheen) $45.30 • Office Pick-Up $34.50 • Canada $62.60 / International $182.00 • Seniors (local) $34.50 / Seniors (Canada) $56.00

InvermereValleyEcho

@TheValleyEcho

Six Month Subscription Rates (incl. tax)

• Local (Canal Flats to Spillimacheen) $29.40 • Seniors (local) $22.80

INVERMEREVALLEYECHO.com

invermerevalleyecho.com A5

Wednesday, September 16, 2015 The Valley Echo

VE

The Invermere

ALLEY CHO

HUMOUR

Something on your mind?

#8, 1008 8 Avenue • P.O. Box 70 Invermere, B.C., Canada V0A 1K0 Phone: 250-341-6299

The Valley Echo welcomes all letters to the editor and submissions from community and sports groups, as well as special community columns.

Please keep your signed, legible submissions under 500 words. We reserve the right to edit for clarity, taste, legal reasons and brevity. Each submission must contain a daytime phone number and place of residence. Send email submissions to editor@ invermerevalleyecho.com.

invermerevalleyecho.com

Published by Black Press Ltd. at Cranbrook Daily Townsman 822 Cranbrook St. N. Cranbrook, BC

PUBLISHER

EDITOR

Dean Midyette

Nicole Trigg

invermerevalleyecho.com

invermerevalleyecho.com

publisher@

editor@

REPORTERS

EDITORIAL

A fighting spirit in the face of fate

Breanne Massey

Steve Hubrecht

invermerevalleyecho.com

invermerevalleyecho.com

breanne@

steve@

ADVERTISING SALES

Amanda Nason

advertising@

invermerevalleyecho.com

GRAPHIC DESIGN / PRODUCTION

Theresa Kains

production@

invermerevalleyecho.com

NICOLE TRIGG editor@invermerevalleyecho.com

ADMINISTRATION

Renice Oaks

customerservice@

invermerevalleyecho.com

NOTICE OF COPYRIGHT: Reproduction of any or all editorial and advertising materials in whole or in part is strictly prohibited without the written consent of the publisher. It is agreed by the advertiser requesting space that the liability of The Valley Echo, owned by Black Press Ltd. in the event of failure to publish an advertisement or in the event of an error appearing in the advertisement as published, shall be limited to the amount paid by the advertiser for only the one incorrect insertion for the portion of the advertising space occupied by the incorrect or omitted items only and that there shall be no liability in any event greater than the amount paid for such advertising.

BC PRESS COUNCIL – The Valley Echo is a member of the British Columbia Press Council, a self-regulatory body governing the province's newspaper industry. The council considers complaints from the public about the conduct of member newspapers. Directors oversee the mediation of complaints, with input from both the newspaper and the complaint holder. If talking with the editor or publisher does not resolve your complaint about coverage or story treatment, you may contact the B.C. Press Council. Your written concern, with documentation, should be sent within 45 days to B.C. Press Council, PO Box 1356, Ladysmith,B.C. V9G 1A9. For information, phone 888-687-2213 or go to www.bcpresscouncil.org

CMCA AUDITED

verifiedcirculation.ca We acknowledge the financial support of the Government of Canada through the Canada Periodical Fund of the Department of Canadian Heritage.

2009 2009 WINNER

Once a firefighter, now a man grateful to be able to do simple chores, Invermere resident Norm Gagatek is an inspiration to us all. When a massive brain stem stroke in 2008 caused doctors to say he would likely never walk or talk again, Norm and his wife Kim didn’t listen. Instead of accepting a life of long-term care, they decided to take Norm’s fate into their own hands.

Together they overcame a multitude of obstacles — from the debilitating physical effects of the stroke to local cutbacks

that affected Norm’s health care services, forcing him to travel to Alberta for therapy — to the point where, today, doctors acknowledge his recovery as something of a miracle.

While Norm still has trouble speaking, he can communicate using special software and an iPad — his mental faculties are 100 per cent. And not only can he accomplish routine activities like using the stairs, he’s now able to make himself breakfast.

In just seven years, Norm has become a role model for those who, unexpectedly, have their lives turned upside by a traumatic event. He is living proof that over-

coming great odds is possible and, with all the advances in science and technology, it remains to be seen just how far he can go with his recovery.

UCLA scientists have just reported that a man completely paralyzed from the waist down was able to voluntarily control his leg muscles with the help of electrical spinal stimulation and a robotic exoskeleton — a combination believed to be the gateway to helping those with spinal cord injuries recover body functions. But the magic ingredient in any recovery is the fighting spirit as this former Invermere firefighter and his family have shown.

OPINION

S

The importance of the UBCM convention

hould elected officials then steak in Halifax and the Regional UNDOWN U for local government go swag was a cheap umbrella, to conferences? What is the some pens, and a bit of other balance between professionpromotional junk). Several al development and wasting years later, there was criticism tax dollars? regarding politicians from the There is no question that Metro Vancouver area staying local governments operate in hotels in downtown Vancouwith a great deal of transparver during a conference.

ERRY ency and, with most commuFrom my opinion, perspecnities paying their mayors tive and experience, there is and councillors a low wage a balance between meaningand with there being no pension plan or ful and important conferences and travel, other benefits/perks that are enjoyed by and those that are lacking in value for politicians from other levels of govern- the taxpayer. There are hundreds of difment, usually local governments are not ferent little conferences or sessions on attacked for frivolous spending on their everything from economic development, elected officials... except occasionally to building sustainable communities, to around conferences. who knows what else. For one politician, In 2011 at the Federal Municipalities Con- or an entire council, to attend all of these ference held that year in Halifax, a coun- would, in my mind, be too much. cillor for the City of Vancouver got in hot There is one very important conference water for tweeting about the lobster dinner once a year that I think every local govshe was eating and all the “swag” she got ernment elected official should attend (if (in her defense, lobster is probably cheaper they are able) and that is the annual con-

R

G TAFT

vention for the Union of British Columbia Municipalities (UBCM).

The UBCM convention generally moves between Vancouver, Whistler and Victoria.

In addition to a great deal of workshops and clinics and learning opportunities, the convention features discussion and debate on resolutions or position statements, which the executive for UBCM spend the rest of the year trying to work on and stays on file to provide direction in the future.

During the UBCM convention, there is usually the opportunity to meet with provincial cabinet ministers and bring up relevant local topics. The meetings with cabinet ministers are only 15 minutes long and sometimes accomplish nothing, but other times they can be very effective in highlighting an issue or a concern and getting some provincial attention/focus.

Most of the local government politicians from the Columbia Valley will be heading down to Vancouver next week for this year’s UBCM conference.

See A7

A6 invermerevalleyecho.com

THE

Wednesday, September 16, 2015 The Valley Echo

S

TREET

Are you registered to vote in the coming federal election? If so, who will you vote for?

“I’m not registered.”

Jordan Rocky

“I am registered. I plan to vote Conservative.”

“I am not registered to vote.”

Mike Lester

Jared Shaw

LETTERS

INVERMERE from A4

Refugee system must be restored

Dear Editor: Canada’s refugee sponsorship program has been decimated by the Conservative government. What was once an effective, responsive and compassionate system is broken.

Ironically, it was a Progressive Conservative government that established Canada’s unique Private Sponsorship of Refugees program in response to the Boat People crisis of 1979.

The result? Canadians sponsored 35,000 refugees from Vietnam, Cambodia and Laos in just the first two years of the program. In 1986, the United Nations awarded the Nansen Medal to “the people of Canada” for their service to refugees — the only time the award has gone to an entire country.

There are many other examples of quick and decisive action by previous federal governments. In 1999, for instance, Canada took extraordinary measures to evacuate 5,500 Kosovar refugees from the former Yugoslavia.

Here in the Kootenays, people have responded with exceptional generosity over the past 30 years, sponsoring and resettling well over 200 refugees in Kimberley, Cranbrook, Wasa, Invermere, Fairmont, Fernie, Sparwood, Golden, Creston, Nelson, Rossland, Trail and Castlegar.

The Syrian crisis has reminded us there are millions of refugees around the world waiting for our help. Many have been languishing in refugee camps for decades — the average stay is 17 years! Some of these people could be living here as our neighbours, contributing to our economy and sharing the life we are so privileged to enjoy.

So, for the benefit of whichever political party forms our next government — and in the sincere hope that Canada will restore its former place in the world — we suggest the following very doable changes to current Conservative policy and regulation.

• Eliminate barriers to private sponsorship, including immediate removal of all caps and limits to the Private Sponsorship of Refugees program.

• Waive the refugee documentation requirement for Groups of Five sponsorships.

• Fast-track Syrian refugees who have family in Canada.

• Restore full Interim Federal Health coverage for refugees resettled in Canada.

• Maintain priority for refugees who have been in camps for more than 10 years.

SUSAN BOND, KIMBERLEY SHAUNA JIMENEZ, WASA (EAST KOOTENAY FRIENDS OF BURMA) ARNÉ SAHLEN, KIMBERLEY (CAMBODIA SUPPORT GROUP)

“Privacy is also a potential issue,” said councillor Al Miller, adding that a few years ago a drone took photos above the Invermere Music Fest, which unnerved a few people there at the time, since they had no idea what the drone was taking photos for.

“I think what we want to just have is some more background information first,” said councillor Greg Anderson.

Council members were unanimous in referring the request to a Committee of the Whole meeting.

Funding denied The district received a letter from the provincial Ministry of Transportation and Infrastructure informing Invermere that its application to the new Building Canada Fund for a UV disinfection treatment plant for the Paddy Ryan Reservoir was turned down.

“The program received significantly more applications than could be funded,” read the letter. “This decision does not reflect on the importance of this project, but rather the degree by which the program has been oversubscribed. All applications were equitably reviewed and given consideration for funding.”

Taft said the district should apply again the next time the project has an intake of applications.

Breastfeeding boosted At the meeting, council unanimously agreed to designate Invermere as a Breastfeeding Friendly Community and proclaim October 1st to 7th as Breastfeeding Week in Invermere.

Taft pointed out that when requests to designate weeks to certain causes come from local groups (as was the case in the Breastfeeding Week), Invermere council traditionally does so, but when such requests come from Ottawa-based national organizations, Invermeres council typically forgoes the request as the whole year would then quickly be entirely filled with special designated weeks.

All council members said they thought the local Breastfeeding Mamas groups was worthy of support. The group’s request for Breastfeeding Week coincides with its participation in the Global Breastfeeding Challenge on October 3rd, 2015.

QUESTION OF THE WEEK

��

Due to technical difficulties, last week’s poll wasn’t posted to the Invermere Valley Echo website.

NEXT WEEK’S QUESTION:

Have you verified that you are on the voters’ list for the federal election?

INVERMEREVALLEYECHO.com

invermerevalleyecho.com A7

Wednesday, September 16, 2015 The Valley Echo

COMMUNITY

Gagatek gets crackin’ with new kitchen device Breanne Massey breanne@invermerevalleyecho.com

Norm Gagatek is eager to get crackin’ eggs in the kitchen for breakfast with his family.

He recently accepted a modified egg cracker, known as the EZ Cracker, for the Gagatek kitchen from the staff at CanAssist at the University of Victoria (UVIC).

The personalized accessible tool not only improves the quality of life for the Gagatek family by helping the 46-year-old Invermerian cope with a brain injury that changed his life forever on July 5th, 2008, it helps Norm gain independence.

“Norm loves eggs for breakfast, but I usually have to cook them,” said his wife, Kim Gagatek. “It seems simple and kind of silly, but that’s just his gig and that’s what he likes, but in the morning, during school time, I need to get the boys up and get them organized for school. Then, get Norm’s breakfast made before I leave the house so he’s up in time to enjoy most of the day.”

Brain injuries are a traumatic and disabling head injury that can change somebody’s life emotionally, socially and financially. The Gagatek couple said there has been no end to

learning how to move forward with Norm’s brain injury.

“It helps with rehabilitation (in terms of) cooking his own meals,” explained Debbie Gudjonson, West Kootenay Brain Injury outreach worker. “It’s important for him to be able to help in the kitchen and if he can cook his kids breakfast, it gives him back his independence.”

The Echo was unable to contact CanAssist staff at UVIC for comment before going to press on Monday, September 14th.

Kim added that her husband used to enjoy cooking and is excited to see him back in the kitchen despite the limited use of his hands.

“Personally, I think the more things he can do independently, the more confidence he will develop,” she explained about his ability to help out with meals again. “A lot of times, with brain injuries, people lose their confidence. They’re always second-guessing themselves, so there’s a big emphasis on getting them out to socialize, but also doing normal, everyday things in the house.”

Norm smirked and used a comprehensive text-based app on an iPad to type out a cheeky response to his wife: “You just want to sleep,” the message read as he lovingly smiled at his wife.

Kim rolled her eyes and laughed at his joke.

“The egg station is really good,” she replied while shooting a glance back to Norm, “and yeah, for me, so I can sleep.”

All Candidates Forum An All Candidates Forum will be held at the David Thompson Secondary School theatre with all major federal party candidates confirmed to attend.

Monday, September 28th Doors open at 6:15 p.m.

Event begins 7 p.m. sharp Event ends at 9 p.m.

As questions from the floor will not be entertained, the public is encouraged to participate by submitting questions prior to noon September 22nd to the following website www.TheColumbiaValley.com Sponsored by

VEALLEY CHO

The Invermere

N E W S PA P E R

After suffering a massive stroke in 2008 that left him with almost no chance of ever walking again, Invermere resident Norm Gagatek has recovered to the point where he can make his favourite breakfast with a modified device given to him by the CanAssist group at the University of Victoria.

Photos by Breanne Massey

THE from A5 We are looking forward to representing our communities, learning from best practices across the province, and helping to keep UBCM relevant and useful to local governments in B.C. A few of us are even putting our names forward to be part of the executive of UBCM and do more work with the organization: Director Booth is running for the position of second Vice President, and I am running as a Director at Large.

Gerry Taft is mayor of the District of Invermere and a Regional District of East Kootenay director for the Columbia Valley. He can be reached at taft.gerry@gmail.com.

Find the Fan THIS WEEK’S FAN APPRECATION CONTEST WINNER

Pick up prize at anytime at the Invermere Valley Echo office

Sponsored by

A8 invermerevalleyecho.com

Wednesday, September 16, 2015 The Valley Echo

2 6 T H A N N U A L C O L U M B I A VA L L E Y CLASSIC CAR SHOW N’ SHINE SCHEDULE OF EVENTS: FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 19TH

4 p.m. - 9 p.m. Rockin’ on Main & Market. Featuring Marty Beingessner and Friends from 5 - 8 p.m. at the Radium Visitor Information Centre. Market opens at 4 p.m.

7 p.m. - 10 p.m. Registration at the Radium Seniors’ Hall (registration also available Saturday morning at the Car Show, please pay at the gate). Registration $25. Entertainment by DJ Wild Bill and Blues Brothers Too — get ready to “Shake a Tailfeather!”

SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 20TH

7 a.m. - 10 a.m. Pancake breakfast at the Radium Seniors’ Hall, hosted by the Radium Fire Department. $5/person.

10 a.m. - 4 p.m. SHOW & SHINE at The Springs Golf Course driving range. Public address announcements will be made by FM radio only. The Blues Brothers Too perform 11 a.m. - 4 p.m.

12 p.m. - 4 p.m. Rockin’ on Main & Market. Featuring Sheberdean & the Postmistress from 11:30 a.m. - 3:30 p.m. at the Radium Visitor Information Centre. Market open noon to 4 p.m.

4 p.m. Cruise to Invermere (Not a Car Club sanctioned event). Please follow traffic control. Police presence with zero tolerance.

8 p.m. - 1 a.m. Dance, with the music of TR3. $25/person. Dance is at the Invermere Curling Club. Free bus service from Radium to Invermere and back every half hour for the dance. Dress up in your ‘50s and ‘60s style costumes for a chance to win a prize!

Che c our k out b new rand pati o!

hen Kitc n ope y! dail

Live music

Special car show feature on Saturday, September 19th 2015 “Pfeffer Pfandl”

Grilled beef, pork and bratwurst served on a bed of spaetzle with a creamy green peppercorn sauce and fresh garden vegetables. $23

Mondays in September

A three course dinner feature with soup or salad and chocolate mousse and berries. $34

Open Monday - Sunday, 11:30 a.m. - 12:00 a.m. • 7538 Main Street East, Radium Hot Springs

Full menu available. Please call for reservations: 250-347-6553

Looking after your auto and classic car insurance needs 101A 1028 7 Avenue PO Box 130 Invermere BC Phone: 250-342-2175 • Fax: 250-342-2669 Tuesday to Friday: 9:00 – 12:30 and 1:00 – 5:00 Saturday: 9:00 – 2:30

www.kootenayinsurance.ca

invermerevalleyecho.com A9

Wednesday, September 16, 2015 The Valley Echo

2 6 T H A N N U A L C O L U M B I A VA L L E Y CLASSIC CAR SHOW N’ SHINE

Everything you need to know about the 2015 Show & Shine... ... When the clock strikes two, three and four If the band slows down we’ll yell for more...

JAMES ROSE Special to The Valley Echo ... One, two, three o’clock, four o’clock rock Five, six, seven o’clock, eight o’clock rock...

26 years! Can you believe it? Yes, on Saturday September 19th, the Columbia Valley Classics Autumn Show & Shine returns for its 26th year at the Radium Springs Golf Course driving range.

In 1989, when the first show was held, there were 75 cars — now, 26 years later, there are over 1,000!

Featuring kandy-kolored, tangerine-flake, streamlined babies of all different makes and models, this year’s show will be one you won’t want to miss.

Whether you are a casual observer or the kind of person who views automobiles as contemporary art objects, everyone of all ages and levels of passion are welcome. ... Nine, ten, eleven o’clock, twelve o’clock rock We’re gonna rock around the clock tonight...

The action gets underway Saturday morning from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Beforehand, there will be the traditional pancake breakfast ($5 admission) taking place from 7 to 10 a.m. at the Radium Seniors Hall.

Registration for Show & Shine participants costs a mere $25 and will occur Friday night at the Hall from 7 to 10 p.m. Expect a fun, social event that will also feature DJ Wild Bill. If you can’t make the Friday night registration, you can still register Saturday morning at the event’s gate. ... Put your glad rags on, join me, Hon We’ll have some fun when the clock strikes one...

Vicki Roberts, the Columbia Valley Classics club president, sees the event as a “great way to wind up summer as it brings lots of visitors to the Radium community.” Roberts also mentioned that she expects “thousands of spectators, and roughly 1,000 vehicles to be on display.”

Car show regulars will be excited to learn that the band Blues Brothers Too will be back and performing outside the Hall and driving through town Friday night, and as well as at the Show & Shine event Saturday from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Later Saturday evening, there will also be a big ol’ dance at Invermere’s curling rink where participants can do their best Hully-Gully, Bird, or Shampoo dance straight from 1962.

Those who wish to come are encouraged to wear mid-20th century themed outfits for a chance to win prizes and contribute to the overall mood. TR3 will be laying down the tunes — fans of Bill Haley and the Comets and many other such artists are sure to not be disappointed.

Tickets for the dance are $25 and limited, with just 500 available. Dancers can buy their tickets at the Show & Shine earlier in the day.

There will also be a shuttle bus running between Radium and Invermere every half hour throughout the entire dance. ... We’re gonna rock around the clock tonight We’re gonna rock, rock, rock, ‘til broad daylight We’re gonna rock, gonna rock around the clock tonight...

AUTO & MARINE DETAILING QUALIT Y

TEED GUARAN

GIFT CERTIFICATES AVAILABLE

• high speed polishing • scratch removal • shampooing

• head light restoration • detail packages available • autobody repair service

4836 Athalmer Road, Invermere, B.C. lboautobody@gmail.com

250-409-4385

PICKUP A DELIVERND Y

YOUR FENDER BENDER MENDER

... We’re gonna rock around the clock tonight We’re gonna rock, rock, rock, ‘til broad daylight We’re gonna rock, gonna rock around the clock tonight...

Immediately following the car show, there will be a non-sanctioned convoy cruise to Invermere with all involved asked to follow traffic control as there will be a police presence with zero tolerance.

The parade of automobiles will start arriving in Invermere around 4:30 p.m. and making their way through town.

To all participants of the Columbia Valley Classic Car Show & Shine

Welcome to the valley!

Invermere Crossroads

250-342-9417

A10 invermerevalleyecho.com

Wednesday, September 16, 2015 The Valley Echo

KIJHL

Season opener disappoints Rockies fans Breanne Massey breanne@invermerevalleyecho.com

The Columbia Valley Rockies suffered a disappointing 6-0 loss against the Kimberley Dyanmiters at the season opener late last week.

The Junior B team’s setback at home devastated a full house of local fans at the Eddie Mountain Memorial Arena on Friday, September 11th.

“I was disappointed with the outcome,” said Wade Dubielewicz, Rockies head coach. “But we have to understand who we were playing with. We were playing with defending champs with some returning players and a really good, quality coach; and they just seemed to be playing more as a team.”

The Rockies started off with a firm grip on the game until the Dynamiters took a 4-0 lead in the first period.

The Dynamiters added two more in the second to run their lead to 6-0 and never looked back — a performance that ultimately cost the Rockies the game.

“It’s an emotional game,” Mr. Dubielewicz replied when asked what the biggest challenges his Junior B team faced during the game. “But they need to learn how to flip the switch and get all this negative out, then come back with a fresh mindset.”

Top: Columbia Valley Rockies goalie Connor McKay gets low in front of a Kamloops forward at the Eddie on September 12th. Below: Damon Raven carries the puck up the ice with a Storm player hot on his heels.

Photos by Breanne Massey

Storm stops the Rockies Breanne Massey breanne@invermerevalleyecho.com

Rockies player Will Reynish fights to stay in control of the puck in the Columbia Valley’s season opener against the Kimberley Dynamiters on September 11th at the Eddie Mountain Memorial Arena.

Photo by Breanne Massey

The Rockies’ attempt to make a comeback from their season opener fell short against the Kamloops Storm during the second league game of the season.

The Storm edged out the Rockies with a 7-4 triumph at the Eddie Mountain Memorial on Saturday, September 12th.

“I think as a group, it’s probably a good lesson to learn early,” said Mr. Dubielewicz. “It’s a 60-minute game, not a 40-minute game. I think we probably ended up feeling pretty good about ourselves in the dressing room after 40 (minutes), and we thought it was going to be a cakewalk but then we got our butts handed to us.”

See A15

Home Games DON’T FORGET VS. CASTLEGAR 50/50 TICKETS REBELS Friday, September 18 7:30 pm VS. REVELSTOKE GRIZZLIES Saturday, September 19 th

th

7:30 pm

CELEBRATING 36 YEARS IN THE KIJHL!

invermerevalleyecho.com A11

Wednesday, September 16, 2015 The Valley Echo THE

WEEKLY Beat Have an event you’d like listed? Email it to: production@ invermerevalleyecho. com

• 7 - 9 p.m.: Columbia Valley Classic • 6 - 8 p.m.: Lego Club every Tuesday Car Club Autumn Show and Shine at Radium Public Library. registration and live entertainment.

RD visit www.radiumhotsprings.com for WEDNESDAY SEPT details.

• 5 p.m.: SYC pizza party. ½ off • 7:30 p.m.: CV Rockies Vs. Castlegar memberships and free pizza for youth Rebels at Eddie Mountain Memorial ages 12 - 18.

Arena.

,

• 10 a.m. The Breastfeeding Mamas peer support group will be meeting at the Invermere Public Library.

• 6 p.m.: Summit Youth Centre (SYC).

Karaoke night.

• 7 p.m.: Christmas Bureau of the Columbia Valley at Christ Church Trinity. If you are interested in volunteering please attend.

• 7 p.m.: Columbia Valley Cycling Society AGM, at the Lions Hall, Chamber of Commerce Building.

Everyone welcome. Visit our website at www.columbiavalleycyclingsociety. org

THURSDAY, SEPT. 24TH

WEDNESDAY, SEPT. 30TH • 5 p.m.: SYC trivia night. Prizes for 1st and 2nd place.

• 8 - 10 p.m.: Liam, Dylan and Roman • 4 p.m.: SYC graphic design training. of Brandon, Manitoba based Until Red playing at 5225 Fairmont Resort Rd, • 6 p.m.: SYC grade 10 - 12 drop in only. Please pre-register. in Fairmont Hot Springs. Visit www.

• 6:15 p.m.: The first monthly Valley TH FRIDAY SEPT 25 untilred.com for more information Sessions concert featuring local musicians Dandelions, Smarty Pants • 5 p.m.: SYC pool tournament. and Jade Bowen at the Pynelogs SATURDAY SEPT 26TH Cultural Centre. $10 cover, cash bar.

In support of Musicians Who Care.

• 9 a.m.: Headbanger trail challenge • 7 - 10 a.m.: Columbia Valley & festival Sept.26 and 27 at Radium Classic Car Club Autumn show Ball Diamonds. Headbanger Trail & shine breakfast at Radium Hot Challenge offers 3, 5 or 10 km runs springs Seniors Hall. Visit www. in support of the Columbia Valley Greenways Trail Alliance. Pre-register radiumhotsprings.com for details.

• 10 a.m. - 4 p.m.: Columbia Valley at crazysoles@telus.net or by phoning Classic Car Club Autumn Show 250-342-2074.

SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 19

WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 16TH

. 23

Contact info@groundswellnetwork. ca or phone 250-342-3337 or visit g ro u n d s we l l n e t wo r k .c a /e v e n t / backyard-chickens-3/

TH

,

.

,

.

• 3 - 10 p.m.: A fundraiser for Forrest Campbell, at Panorama Mountain Resort, who suffered a spinal cord injury. Family fun by donation from • 7:30 p.m.: CV Rockies vs. Revelstoke 3 - 6 p.m. $25 a ticket at Bicycle Works and Arrowhead Brewery. 7 p.m.

THURSDAY SEPTEMBER 17TH Grizzlies at Eddie Mountain evening festivities begin including a Memorial Arena.

• 5 p.m.: SYC WildSafeBC Bear and silent auction at 8 p.m. and DJ Curly G. • 8 p.m.: Columbia Valley Classic Car Wildlife Safety Presentation.

Club Autumn Show and Shine dance • 7:30 p.m.: SYC movie and popcorn.

• 6 - 9 p.m.: Groundswell hosts world at Invermere District curling Rink.

SUNDAY SEPTEMBER 27TH renowned soil scientist Elaine Ingham, who will present on the concept of SUNDAY SEPTEMBER 20TH • 9 -11 a.m.: Pancake Breakfast every the living soil food web, at David • 9 -11 a.m.: Pancake Breakfast every Sunday at the Edgewater Legion.

Thompson Secondary School.

• 1 p.m.: 2nd Annual Friends helping Sunday at the Edgewater Legion.

• 7:30 p.m.: Don Alder plays at • 9 - 11 a.m.: 35th Annual Terry Fox Furry Friends Golf Tournament at Pynelogs. Tickets $20. A workshop Run at J.A. Laird School. With an out Spur Valley Golf. 9 hole scramble, will be held from 3:30 to 5 p.m. at a and back course of 3 to 10 km walk, BBQ steak dinner and great prizes. cost of $10. wheel, ride or run and leashed dogs $75, all proceeds go to GALS. For registration call 250-688-1511 or email are welcome.

FRIDAY SEPTEMBER 18TH aaron.sarson@gmail.com • 8 a.m. - 6 p.m.: Groundswell hosts • 12:15 p.m.: Columbia Valley Rockies • 7:30 p.m.: CV Rockies vs. 100 Mile an all day soil workshop with experts Annual Golf Tournament. $85 includes House Wranglers at Eddie Mountain from across Western Canada. 125 cart and dinner. Call Copper Point Memorial Arena. spots available; register at www. Golf at 341-3392 for more information. groundswellnetwork.ca MONDAY SEPTEMBER 28TH ST and Shine at Springs driving range followed by cruise to Invermere.

Visit www.radiumhotsprings.com for details.

,

,

,

,

,

HOURS INVERMERE LIBRARY

• Tuesday: 10 a.m. - 5 p.m • Wednesday: 10 a.m - 8 p.m.

• Thurs – Saturday: 10 a.m - 5p.m.

RADIUM LIBRARY

• Tuesday: 6 - 8 p.m.

• Wed - Thursday: 1 - 4 p.m.

• 4 - 9 p.m.: Columbia Valley Classics • 4 - 4:45 p.m.: Bring a friend to Skate • 4 - 8 p.m.: SYC Employment readiness • Saturday: 10 a.m. - 1p.m.

Autumn Show & Shine. Market open

MONDAY, SEPTEMBER 21

Day and registration with Columbia at 4 p.m. Rocking on Main featuring Valley Skating Club. Registration Marty Beingessner & Friends. available for all programs 3:30 Registration from 7 - 9 p.m. at Radium 5:30pm. Must have a CSA approved Seniors Hall. hockey style helmet and skates!

• 5 p.m.: SYC foosball tournament.

Contact Leanne for more information • 5 - 9 p.m.: Artist show opening at 250-342-6607 or email beddie@ featuring Donna Deschenes, Carol telus.net Gordon, Stan Lukasiewicz, Rita • 4 - 8 p.m.: SYC Employment readiness Rankin, Maegan Stanbury and Ingrid and Skills for Life. Please pre-register.

Vincent at Pynelogs.

Call for details.

• 6 p.m.: Cocktails and Roast Beef ND Dinner at the Invermere Legion. $15/ TUESDAY SEPTEMBER 22 person. Reservations recommended. • 5 - 8 p.m.: SYC open house for parents Call 250-342-9517. Meat Draw and and youth. Come see what we are all 50/50. about! 709 -10th Street, Invermere.

,

and Skills for Life. Please pre-register.

Call for deatils.

TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 29

TH

WINDERMERE VALLEY MUSEUM •Mon. - Friday: 10 p.m. - 4 p.m.

• 11a.m. - 5 p.m.: Purcell Mountain INVERMERE THRIFT STORE Painters & Headwaters Art Society • Thurs - Saturday: 10 a.m. - 4 p.m.

Art Show at Pynelogs Art Gallery from Sept 29th to Oct 11th. For more RADIUM THRIFT STORE infomation visit columbiavalleyarts.

• Thursday: 10 a.m. - 4 p.m. com • 5 p.m.: SYC Rockband Competition.

• Fri - Saturday: 12 - 4 p.m.

• 6 - 8 p.m.: Lego Club every Tuesday SUMMIT YOUTH CENTRE at Radium Public Library.

• Tuesday: 5 - 9 p.m.

• 6 - 8 p.m.: MDT Backyard Chickens. • Wednesday: 4 - 9 p.m.

Everything you need to know about • Thursday: 5 - 9 p.m. raising chickens in your backyard. • Fri - Saturday: 6 - 11 p.m.

A12 invermerevalleyecho.com

Wednesday, September 16, 2015 The Valley Echo

EMEMBER WHEN? R A look back through The Valley Echo's archives

2007 — Local skateboarders put the Mt. Nelson Athletic Park skate park to good use before it was temporarily closed for upgrades

over the last 50 years

worth $200. Gee would go on to become principal of J.A. Laird Elementary School.

50

years ago (1965): A plane crash claimed the lives of three men, including local pilot Bruce Downey, when the men’s Cessna 180 float plane hit a telephone wire while taking off from the Columbia River. The three had been planning to head to Fortress Lake.

45

years ago (1970): Upper Columbia Valley resident and then University of Victoria student David Gee won the Royal Canadian Legion Branch 71 scholarship,

B

40

years ago (1975): The Canal Flats Flyers women’s fastball team won the Columbia Valley women’s fastball league championship.

The Flyers won 18 of their 20 games during the season. The most valuable player trophy was jointly awarded to Doreen Magee and Myrna Rotvold.

30

years ago (1985): Local First Nations fast pitch team, the B.C. Arrows, won the North American Native Fast Pitch Championships for the third time in a row. The valley team beat an

Oklahoma team 4-0 in the final game. The tournament, held in Reno, Nevada, featured 32 First Nations teams.

20

years ago (1995): Windermere resident Lindy Meadows was preparing to shoot and direct a feature-length drama film in the valley. It was to feature nine local actors.

10

years ago (2005): An elusive cougar prowling around the district of Invermere was giving conservation officers fits. The cat had been killing and eating local pets for months, but the conversvation officers had been unable to catch it.

S

Answers to last week

UDOKU

RAIN AIN GAME

S

CLUES ACROSS 1. W. Loman’s failed son 5. Largest English dictionary (abbr.)

8. Wanes 12. Lifeless geologic period 14. No (Scottish) 15. Filled chocolate cookie 16. Circular chordophones 18. Short-term memory 19. Any small compartment 20. Poisonous gas 21. Cologne 22. Scaleless fishes 23. Ormolu 26. Well-known & respected 30. Man-made river embankment 31. Yearned after something 32. Before 33. Garlic mayonnaise 34. California white oak 39. CNN’s founder Turner 42. Removed contents

W eekend WEATHER Friday September 18

Mix of sun and cloud 18 C o

Saturday September 19 Mix of sun and clouds 19 C o

Sunday September 20

Sudoku puzzles are formatted as a 9x9 grid, broken down into nine 3x3 boxes. To solve a sudoku, the numbers 1 through 9 must fill each row, column and box. Each number can appear only once in each row, column and box. Figure out the order in which the numbers will appear by using the numeric clues already provided in the boxes. The more numbers named, the easier it gets to solve the puzzle!

CROSSWORD

ECHO FILE PHOTO

Chance of a shower

44. Frighten 46. Responded 47. “Extant” star 49. Aba ____ Honeymoon 50. Box (abbr.)

51. Reptile leather 56. Norse goddess of old age 57. Drive obliquely, as of a nail 58. Inspire with love 59. Affirm positively 60. European sea eagle 61. Congresswoman Giffords 62. Emit coherent radiation 63. Fall back time 64. Masses of fish eggs

8. From 56 to 34 million years ago 9. Small wind 10. Disney heroine 11. Helios 13. Existing at birth but not hereditary 17. Paris river 24. Confined condition (abbr.)

25. More than charged 26. A major division of geological time 27. Japanese apricot 28. Initial public offering 29. A quantity of no importance 35. Securities market CLUES DOWN 36. Sharp part of a tool 1. Leavened rum cake 37. Downwind 2. Moslem women’s garment 38. Doctor of Education 3. Quilting duo: ____ & Porter 40. Built up 4. S W Pacific state 41. Borrowers 5. The start of something 42. Stray 6. Edible 43. Country singer Haggard 7. More coy 44. Eurasian marten pelts

19 C o

45. Fashion magazine Marie ___ 47. Turkish candy 48. Regarding 49. Distribute game cards 52. Princess Anne’s daughter 53. Planned pipeline from Burgas to Vlore 54. An academic gown 55. Removes moisture

invermerevalleyecho.com A13 www.invermerevalleyecho.com A13

Wednesday, September 2015 The The Valley Echo Wednesday,16, September 16,Valley 2015 Echo

<our community. <our classi¿eds.

250.341.6299 email customerservice@invermerevalleyecho.com INDEX IN BRIEF FAMILY ANNOUNCEMENTS COMMUNITY ANNOUNCEMENTS TRAVEL CHILDREN EMPLOYMENT BUSINESS SERVICES PETS & LIVESTOCK MERCHANDISE FOR SALE REAL ESTATE RENTALS AUTOMOTIVE MARINE

AGREEMENT

It is agreed by any Display or Classified Advertiser requesting space that the liability of the paper in the event of failure to publish an advertisement shall be limited to the amount paid by the advertiser for that portion of the advertising space occupied by the incorrect item only, and that there shall be no liability in any event beyond the amount paid for such advertisement. The publisher shall not be liable for slight changes or typographical errors that do not lessen the value of an advertisement. bcclassified.com cannot be responsible for errors after the first day of publication of any advertisement. Notice of errors on the first day should immediately be called to the attention of the Classified Department to be corrected for the following edition. bcclassified.com reserves the right to revise, edit, classify or reject any advertisment and to retain any answers directed to the bcclassified.com Box Reply Service and to repay the customer the sum paid for the advertisment and box rental.

DISCRIMINATORY LEGISLATION

Advertisers are reminded that Provincial legislation forbids the publication of any advertisement which discriminates against any person because of race, religion, sex, color, nationality, ancestry or place of origin, or age, unless the condition is justified by a bona fide requirement for the work involved.

COPYRIGHT

Copyright and/or properties subsist in all advertisements and in all other material appearing in this edition of bcclassified.com.

Permission to reproduce wholly or in part and in any form whatsoever, particularly by a photographic or offset process in a publication must be obtained in writing from the publisher. Any unauthorized reproduction will be subject to recourse in law.

ON THE WEB:

Announcements

Employment

Employment

Employment

Employment

Employment

Information

Caretakers/ Residential Managers

Education/Trade Schools

Help Wanted

Help Wanted

Help Wanted

MOTEL ASST Manager Team to run small Motel in Parksville BC. Non-Smoking, no Pets, good Health, fulltime live-in position. Fax 250-5861634 or email resume to: kjjr27@hotmail.com CANADA BENEFIT Group.

Do you or someone you know suffer from a disability? Get up to $40,000 from the Canadian Government. Toll-free 1-888511-2250 or www.canada benefit.ca/free-assessment.

HIP OR Knee replacement?

Arthritic Conditions/COPD? Restrictions in Walking/Dressing? Disability Tax Credit $2,000 Tax Credit $20,000 Refund. Apply Today For Assistance: 1-844-453-5372.

Lost & Found Found: Chevy keys, five other keys, vehicle key fob. At Cleland Lake. 250-347-9805.

Lost: Blue Bimini tarp about 300 meters north of the Centex gas station in Skookumchuk on Sunday. It blew out of my boat. Someone said they saw it in the northbound ditch. Please call 403-968-5429 if found.

Lost: Prescription glasses in Radium on Saturday, August 15th. We were at the Farmers Market and we also went out for dinner across the street at the Rib place. Reward offered.

Travel

Timeshare CANCEL YOUR Timeshare.

No risk program. Stop mortgage and maintenance payments today. 100% Money Back Guarantee. Free Consultation. Call us now. We can help! 1-888-356-5248

Employment Business Opportunities GET FREE Vending machines Can Earn $100,000+ per year.

All cash-locations provided.

Protected territories. Interest free financing. Full details call now 1-866-668-6629 Website www.tcvend.com.

Place of Worship

Education/Trade Schools INTERIOR HEAVY EQUIPMENT OPERATOR SCHOOL. NO Simulators. In-the-seat training. Real world tasks.

Weekly start dates. Job board!

Funding options.

SignUp online! iheschool.com 1-866-399-3853 MEDICAL TRANSCRIPTION! In-demand career! Employers have work-at-home positions available. Get online training you need from an employertrusted program. Visit: CareerStep.ca/MT or 1-855768-3362 to start training for your work-at-home career today!

Help Wanted

MEDICAL TRANSCRIPTIONISTS are in huge demand!

Train with Canada’s top Medical transcription school. Learn from home and work from home. Call today! 1-800-4661535 www.canscribe.com. info@canscribe.com.

/ŶƐƉŝƌŝŶŐ ĂƌĞĞƌƐ ^ƚĂƌƚ ,ĞƌĞ͘ hŶĞ ĂƌƌŝğƌĞ ^ƚŝŵƵůĂŶƚĞ ŽŵŵĞŶĐĞ ŚĞnj EŽƵƐ͘

START A new career in Graphic Arts, Healthcare, Business, Education or Information Tech. If you have a GED, call: 855-670-9765

Driver/Operator Road Maintenance II Seasonal employment opportunity Highway Operations Unit, Lake Louise Operating Area, $22.21 to $24.13 per hour (currently under review) To apply please visit our website: www.pc.gc.ca/mpcareers

Community

ͺͺͺͺͺͺͺͺͺͺͺͺͺͺͺͺͺͺͺͺͺͺͺͺͺͺͺͺͺͺͺͺͺͺͺͺͺͺͺͺ

Newspapers We’re at the heart of things™ Help Wanted

Conducteur(trice)/Opérateur(trice) Entretien des routes II Emploi Saisonnier Centre de services routiers, Aire des opérations de Lac Louise

De 22,21 $ à 24,13 $ l'heure (présentement sous révision)

Pour présenter une demande, visitez notre site sur les carrières à: www.pc.gc.ca/carrierespm

0911611 BC LTD o/a Tim Hortons 496 Highway 93/95 Invermere, B.C. V0A 1K2

Part and Full-time Positions Available Start date – ASAP Year-round Employment Excellent Medical/Dental Benefits Food Service Supervisor Permanent, Shift

Food Counter Attendant Permanent, Shift

No education required One to two years experience required.

Nights/early mornings/weekends $12.40/hour + medical/ dental/group benefits.

No education or experience required.

All shifts available – nights/overnights/ early mornings/weekends $11.50/hour + medical/ dental/group benefits.

Apply in person or via email (timhortons.invermere@gmail.com) for both positions.

Place of Worship

Place of Worship

ME Y FIND NT NEMPLOYMENT LO T T T E P N N M M E E E IN CLASSIFIEDS Y THE E M M M O Y Y Y L O O O P PL NT MPL NT MPL E E M E OYM E OYM E NT E T T L L N N M P P E E Y EM NT EM LOYM PTLO LOYM E YM T EMP MEEMN EMP O Y N PL O , E T T M L N N M E Everything you re looking for is P T T E E Y NEM YM ENOYM Ethe LO Y in classifieds!

M M P O TOY PL PL MEN EM PLO L M P EM E Y M M E LO E Place of Worship

Place of Worship

Place of Worship

CHURCH SERVICES DIRECTORY ST. PETER’S WINDERMERE ROMAN CATHOLIC RADIUM CHRISTIAN CHURCH OF JESUS FELLOWSHIP CHRIST OF LATTER LUTHERAN MISSION VALLEY SHARED CHURCH DAY SAINTS OF INVERMERE MINISTRY #4 - 7553 Main Street W, 250-342-6167 ANGLICAN-UNITED Radium 5014 Fairway, 100 - 7th Ave., Invermere Pastor: Father Gabriel 250-342-6633 Fairmont Hot Springs 250-426-7564 100-7th Ave., Invermere Confession: 1/2 hr. before Mass 250-347-6334 250-341-5792 250-342-6644 Pastor: Rev. Fraser Coltman Canadian Martyrs Church Pastor Rev. David Morton Reverend Laura Hermakin President: Adam Pasowisty 712 - 12 Ave, Invermere Worship Service wvsm.ca Columbia Valley Branch Saturdays, 5 p.m.

Sundays, 10 a.m.

Worship Services Bacon, Friends & Faith, 9:30 a.m Sundays, 9 a.m.

Sundays Worship Services (Sept. - June) Bible Studies 1:30 p.m.

Sundays St. Joseph’s Church Wednesdays, 7 p.m.

Worship, Every Sunday:10:30 a.m.

Christ Church Trinity, 10 a.m.

- 1 p.m.

Hwy. 93-95, Radium Hot Christ Church Trinity, Invermere Kids’ Church Invermere Springs 1st and 3rd Sunday, 9 a.m.: All Edgewater Hall Sundays, 11 a.m.

Saint’s, Edgewater Thursdays, 6:30 p.m.

2nd Sunday, 7 p.m.: June - Oct. at St. Anthony’s Mission St. Peter’s Windermere Loving God, Corner of Luck and Dunn, Loving People Canal Flats All Saint’s, Edgewater.

Saturdays, 4:30 p.m.

St.Peter’s Windermere

LAKE WINDERMERE VALLEY CHRISTIAN ASSEMBLY ALLIANCE CHURCH Hwy. 93/95, 1 km north 326 - 10th Ave., Invermere of Windermere 250-342-9535 250-342-9511 Lead Pastor: Trevor Hagan Pastor: Murray Wittke Asso. Pastor: Matt Moore lakewindermerealliance.org valleychristianonline.com September 20th 10:30 a.m.

Sunday Service Worship & Life Instruction 10 a.m. Worship & Word “Growing In Jesus - The Kid’s Church Provided Jailbirds’ song” Pastor Trevor Hagan Ministering.

KIDS Church, for children age 3 - Grade 1; and Grade 2-7, during the morning service.

Sharing Truth Showing Love Following the Spirit

A14 A14 invermerevalleyecho.com www.invermerevalleyecho.com Employment

Services

Merchandise for Sale

Help Wanted

Financial Services

Fruit & Vegetables

AUTO FINANCING-Same Day Approval. Dream Catcher Auto Financing 1-800-910-6402 or www.PreApproval.cc

3111 Hwy 3 Erickson, BC 250-402-3056 Visit us for apples

Radium area. Class 1 with Air, driver for dump truck with pup,someone with experience with paving.

Call Jag. 1-604-783-5051.

This is a permanent full-time position in the beautiful Columbia Valley. Requires: Minimum of 3 years work experience in tourism industry; Diploma and/or certificate in tourism management or equivalent would be ideal; Working experience with vacation property management software is ideal; Strong computer skills especially in Microsoft Office; Must be a motivated, independent, organized worker that is friendly and professional with guests; Must live in the Columbia Valley or willing to relocate.

We offer competitive salary, 3 weeks paid vacation, a company-paid cell phone, an ‘Enjoy the Columbia Valley’ allowance, paid BC Health coverage & more!

Please submit your resume and cover letter to: careers@ cobblestonecreek.ca before September 21, 2015 www.cobblestonecreek.ca For full details visit: www.LocalWorkBC.ca

From Ambrosia to Zestar, we have more than 20 varieties available in season.

We also have carrots & fresh-pressed cider.

Bulk orders welcome!

Closed Sundays

GET BACK ON TRACK! Bad credit? Bills? Unemployed?

Need Money? We Lend! If you own your own home - you qualify. Pioneer Acceptance Corp. Member BBB. 1-877-987-1420 www.pioneerwest.com

Hospitality

Guest Experience Specialist

Faraman Farm

LARGE FUND Borrowers Wanted Start saving hundreds of dollars today! We can easily approve you by phone. 1st, 2nd or 3rd mortgage money is available right now. Rates start at Prime. Equity counts.

We don’t rely on credit, age or income.

Call Anytime 1-800-639-2274 or 604-430-1498. Apply online www.capitaldirect.ca NEED A LOAN? Own Property? Have Bad Credit? We can help! Toll free 1-866-405-1228 www.firstandsecondmortgages.ca

Household Services KOOTENAY Duct Cleaners .

Locally owned & operated , affordable , professional and insured Duct Cleaning services & system sterilizations .Toll Free 1-844-428-0522 Free Estimates .

Plumbing FULL SERVICE Plumbing from Parker Dean. Fast, reliable, 24/7 service. Take $50 off your next job if you present this ad. Vancouver area. 1800-573-2928.

Heavy Duty Machinery A-CHEAP, LOWEST PRICES STEEL SHIPPING Dry Storage Containers Used 20’40’45’53’ and insulated containers all sizes in stock. 40’ containers as low as $2,200DMG. Huge freezers.

Experienced wood carvers needed, full time. Ph Toll free 24 hours 1-866-528-7108 or 1778-298-3192 8am-5pm. Delivery BC and AB www.rtccontainer.com

Misc. for Sale STEEL BUILDINGS. Summer Madness Sale! All buildings, all models. You’ll think we’ve gone mad deals. Call Now and get your deal. Pioneer Steel 1800-668-5422. www.pioneersteel.ca

Rentals Mobile Homes & Pads Windermere: Trailer pad #13 in Williams Trailer Park.

Available immediately Phone 250-342-9390.

Suites, Lower

BIGGEST Restaurant Equipment Auction In Canadian History! Kwik Auctions 2 Day Sale. Sept 14/15 - www.KwikAuctions.com - Online Bidding Available Via Bidspotter!

Windermere: Bright, newly renovated, no smoking, 2 bdrm, 1 bath, lower level walkout suite on spacious acreage. Avail Oct. 1st. All appliance included. Large, bright windows and access to an attached garage.

Asking $800/mth + 50% utilities. Not pets allowed.

For inquiries or to book a viewing, please contact Derek 250-341-7781

Auto Financing

Auto Financing

Merchandise for Sale

Auctions

SAME DAY

AUTO FINANCING Quick. Easy.

Dream Catcher

AUTO Financing

www.PreApproval.cc

#7557

Help Wanted

1-800-910-6402

Help Wanted

Help Wanted

September is Disability Employment Month Get Involved - Get Informed - Get Hired Find out more about services available to people with disabilities.

Participate in workshops focused on disclosing and managing disabilities.

Workshop Dates ! September 9th and 23rd @ 1:30pm Call us to find out more and register for one or both workshops.

2 - 1 3 1 3 7 t h A ve , I n ve r m e r e - 3 4 1 - 6 8 8 9 o r 1 - 8 5 5 - 6 5 1 - 3 0 2 7

www.ekemployment.org The Employment Program of British Columbia is funded by the Government of Canada and the Province of British Columbia.

Wednesday, September 16, 2015 The Valley Echo Wednesday, September 16, 2015 The Valley Echo

invermerevalleyecho.com A15

Wednesday, September 16, 2015 The Valley Echo STORM from A10

mid-season.”

Forwards Donovan Quinten, Damon Raven and NoThe Columbia Valley Rockies dropped to 0-2 in the lan Menard also scored for the Rockies, who were outseason after blowing a 4-2 third period lead en route shot 38-37 on the night by the visiting Storm. to a 7-4 loss to the visiting Kamloops Storm team on Goalie Connor McKay stopped 31 shots on the RockSaturday night. ies’ net.

The Storm jumped out to a The biggest challenge for the 2-1 first period lead, before the team will be to learn discipline It’s about making Rockies scored three in the secand sportsmanship throughout decisions when you’re ond period to head into the fithe season. nal frame ahead by two.

“It’s going to mean some hard tired, and being able to make The wheels fell off as the work for them,” replied Mr. Duthe right ones....

Storm scored five unanswered bielewicz when asked how he WADE DUBIELEWICZ goals in the third period to will teach the Rockies disciCOLUMBIA VALLEY ROCKIES HEAD COACH win 7-4. pline for the whole 60-minute Will Reynish led the way for game. “It’s about making decithe Rockies with two goals and an assist in the losing sions when you’re tired, and being able to make the cause, while Dario Piva countered with two goals and right ones and tonight, we didn’t do that.” an assist for the Storm.

The next game slated for the Rockies is against the “I was pretty happy with the 40 minutes, and it’s a Castlegar Rebels at 7:30 p.m. at the Eddie Mountain good lesson for a young group,” he said. “I’m happy Memorial Arena on Friday, September 18th. it’s happening this early in the season rather than

SERVING THE Sholinder & MacKay

Sand & Gravel

VALLEY

Business of the Week

Complete line of aggregate products for construction and landscaping Office:

250-342-6452 • 250-342-3773 Cell: 250-342-5833

VE

Amanda Nason

Advertising Sales

Ph: 250.341.6299 • Cell: 250.341.1111 www.columbiavalleypioneer.com advertising@invermerevalleyecho.com

Septic Tank Pumping Portable Toilet Rentals

The Timbers Resort began its history in the late 1940’s to early 1950’s. It has had several owners since that time, each improving and adding a little more as time went on. It now functions as an all season resort catering to families who want a serene getaway, golf groups and even class reunions! It is the perfect venue to host weddings and family reunions with 7 cabins, a playground and a large communal fire pit that acts as the perfect meeting spot. We also have a small seasonal campground. The Timbers is situated just 5 minutes south of Fairmont Hot Springs on the beautiful Columbia Lake Road. It boasts magnificent Columbia Lake and Rocky Mountain views! Check out our website at www.timbersresort.com Sponsored by:

Bruce Dehart 250-347-9803 or 250-342-5357

www.TheColumbiaValley.ca

READY MIX CONCRETE • CONCRETE PUMP • SAND & GRAVEL • HEAVY EQUIPMENT RENTALS • CRANE SERVICE

Proudly serving the Valley for over 50 years.

For competitive prices and prompt service call:

250-342-2844

info@cvchamber.ca 651 Highway 93/ 95, P.O. Box 1019, Invermere, B.C. V0A 1K0

NEW R SEWERA CAME

• Complete sewer/drain repairs • Reasonable rates - Seniors’ discount • Speedy service - 7 days a week • A well-maintained septic system should be pumped every 2-3 years • Avoid costly repairs

To advertise, call: 250-341-6299

• Brakes • Tires • Suspension • Oil Changes • Alignment • Air Conditioners Your Winter Tire Super Store

Cranbr Cranbrook Pest Control

The Invermere

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

Mountainside Ladies’ Club For the Fairmont Mountainside Ladies Club, it is the end of the official golf season with our Club Championship held on two days last week, the final day being September 10th. The overall low gross winner and new Club Champion is Loretto Keenan.

The overall low net winner is Shirley Bergman. Our congratulations to them both.

The winners of the first, second and third flights are Sherri Broom, Wendy Booth and Pat Slack, respectively. Fran Lapinskie won the Monthly Cup and was our host for the potluck following the championship. See you next year!

Submitted by Sharon Nichol

250-342-4433 • Open 7 days a week NATIONWIDE GUARANTEE

Your Weekly Source for News and Events

ALLEY CHO

GOLF NEWS

250-342-3268 (plant) 250-342-6767 (office)

Certified & Licensed Certified Licensed for for Pesticide Sale Pesticide Application Application &&Sale

C Pes

Got ants or

Thermal Imaging wasps?

T Cranbr 100% Guarantee 100% Money Money Back Guarantee

C 10 www.cranbrookpestcontrol.com www.CRANBROOKPESTCONTROL.com info@cranbrookpestcontrol.com infor@cranbrookpestcontrolcom Pes www.cr a

infor@ 250-426-9586 250-426-9586 • 1-888-433-5695 1-888-371-6299

250-426 T

10

www.cr a

to give your business maximum exposure infor@ for your advertising dollar?

250-426 Call 250-341-6299 for more information.

A16 invermerevalleyecho.com

Wednesday, September 16, 2015 The Valley Echo

LOCAL NEWS

Invasive fish could put other species at risk BREANNE MASSEY breanne@invermerevalleyecho.com

The initiative to keep regional waters safe from a predator could help save the lives of many local sport fish.

While the risk of a Northern Pike fish invasion in the Columbia River is substantially low, Canadian Columbia River Inter-tribal Fisheries Commission (CCRIFC) aquatic biologist Will Warnock believes the fish that are native to the Kootenay River watershed could be faced with serious problems if the species begins to spawn in Canada.

“Northern Pike, we know have been present in the Koocanusa Reservoir on the American side, so there’s nothing preventing them from moving up into Canada,” explained Warnock, while explaining that a fisherman recently caught a Northern East Kootenay anglers are asked to be on the lookout for Northern Pike and to take Pike in St. Mary’s River, “then moving into any areas that are accessible throughout any they catch to their local Conservation or Ministry of Forests, Lands and Natural Photo submitted the Kootenay River system — the same area of river flows into the Kootenay River Resources office. just by Cranbrook so it’s not surprising that one would move in here.”

Northern Pike are a species of fish that are most often coloured with an olive green body and shading from yellow to white along its belly.

Younger pike are frequently seen with yellow stripes along a green body, which later changes into light spots and the body turns from green to olive green.

The Northern Pike is known as a relatively aggressive species that develops a tendency toward becoming cannibals. This happens around five weeks when food is scarce. Occasionally, Northern Pike will turn against smaller counterparts of their own breed to eat regularly.

“They could potentially be a large problem for native fish if they are able to establish in the Kootenay watershed,” added Mr. Warnock.

“They can impact native fish species, native amphibians, native inverWindermere, Holland Creek, Timber Ridge tebrates by eating them.” and Edgewater It remains unclear where exactly the Northern Pike are coming from or if they’re established (spawning naturally) anywhere in Canada.

The Regional District of East Kootenay will be doing “What typically happens with fish when they get introduced to an its annual water system flushing between area is they’re not very abundant and you’ll get reports every now and then of people catching one,” he said. “But as soon as they get September 14, 2015 - October 16, 2015 a foothold, you’ll start seeing a lot more of them, so we don’t know Users in Windermere, Holland Creek, Timber Ridge if they’ve established yet and (if) we’re going to be seeing a lot more and Edgewater may notice temporary water of them or not, but there’s a large potential that they could establish discolouration for a short period of time. and multiply and spread their way through the Kootenay system.”

Mr. Warnock explained if the Northern Pike travelled north, the speIf there is any discolouration of water, please run cies would be trapped in the Kootenay River system unless an angler your cold water taps until the water is clear. moved one into another body of water. He noted slow moving, warm For more information water tends to attract Northern Pike.

“There’s no way they could get into the Moyie or over into the Upon the flushing program, contact: per Columbia because the drainages aren’t connected,” he added. “It Joel Bilodeau would be the Kootenay system that we would be worried about, and RDEK Senior Operator likely the main stem of the river — lakes that are attached to the Koojbilodeau@rdek.bc.ca tenay River at certain times of the year — that we would be worried 1-250-342-0063 about. Places like Wasa Lake, and the sloughs around Wasa.”

Warnock urges anglers to familiarize themselves with the appearance of Northern Pike and deliver the whole catch (or the fish head) to the Ministry of Forests, Lands and Natural Resources or to the Conservation Office.

“They’re quite distinctive,” he concluded. “They’ve got this sort of flat. duck bill-like snout on them and their dorsal fin is far back on the body. They’ve got colouration like nothing else you would see in the area so people should get to know what they look like first, but if they catch one, they should take it to their local provincial ministry Regional District of East Kootenay office — there’s one in Invermere, Cranbrook and Fernie. Take it to either the Conservation Officer Service or Forest Lands and Natural www.rdek.bc.ca info@rdek.bc.ca 1-888-478-7335 Resources.”

Regional District of East Kootenay

We are feeling... F L U S H E D !

Water System Flushing

Geoff Hill MaxWell Realty Invermere

250-341-7600

connect@geoffhill.ca Invermere-RealEstate.com