Columbia Valley Pioneer, January 9, 2020

January 9, 2020 Vol. 17/Issue 2

Your Weekly Source for News and Events

The Columbia Valley Pioneer • 1 January 9, 2020

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2 • The Columbia Valley Pioneer

January 9, 2020

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The Columbia Valley Pioneer • 3

VALLEY NEWS Angels in the air

By Dauna Ditson dauna@columbiavalleypioneer.com After angels came to his rescue, Rick Jarrett became one too. When the Invermere resident needed to go to Kelowna for cancer testing, he was relieved to hear that he and his partner could catch a flight – for free – to get there.

That’s because, after Alberta began declining patients from British Columbia, Angel Flight East Kootenay started up in April to fly residents to treatment centres in Kelowna for medical appointments.

“The pressure they took off was priceless,” Jarrett said. “The greatest thing was that . . . I didn’t have to worry about – how to get there and back safely.”

Rather than making a long drive, his job was simply to get to Cranbrook and let the pilot take him straight to Kelowna.

“With the closure of facilities or our ability to utilize them in Calgary now, this has put so much more pressure on people having to travel – and particularly in the winter over the Rogers Pass – many who may be over my age or just are not comfortable travelling in those conditions,” he said. “It’s like seven hours in the winter – as long as nothing happens along the way – where this is an hour out of Cranbrook.”

Jarrett’s test results left him with a terminal diagnosis with “a long fancy name” and cancer that appears to be in his liver, gall bladder and pancreas, but he’s hoping his treatments will buy him more time.

“I’m all for the living. I want to get some more fish-

ing in,” he said.

When he talked with the Pioneer on Friday, December 20th, he was going through his second round of chemotherapy and said there was an “indication that the medicines – the poison – I’m taking are at least slowing the progress.”

But he’s not letting his diagnosis, his treatment or his fishing aspirations stop him from helping others. Now that he understands the relief Angel Flight can offer patients, he’s devoting himself to getting other patients onboard for their appointments.

“Number one is that all the residents of this area are Rick Jarrett.

Photo submitted aware that it’s available and make use of it any time they need,” he said.

I am... I’ve always served. I was taught by my parents, so His second goal is to ensure Angel Flight has the I grew up with a family with a lot of love.” funds to offer free flights for anyone who needs them.

When he heard Jim Gibb’s account of how his late In the longer term, he also wants to help the organi- wife, Margie Gibb, was shuttled cumbersomely between zation raise “a couple hundred thousand” to get a plane hospitals and treatment centres in the United States, Alof its own. berta and British Columbia before her death in February “If we could buy our own aircraft, we could cut the (see page three in the December 5th, 2019 issue for the cost of operation in half,” he said. story), Jarrett knew he had to do whatever he could to Right now a one-way or same-day flight costs the or- help others get to and from their medical appointments. ganization $900. If the patient stays in Kelowna longer “That really cemented my decision,” he said, adding than the plane, the round trip costs $1,800. that he has a great deal of empathy for the ordeal the To drop the flight costs down, Jarrett hopes they can Gibbs family endured. raise $100,000 and leverage it to bring in grants and adAngel Flight is “available to all residents of the East ditional funding opportunities.

Kootenays if they have the medical need to travel,” he Jarrett himself has been giving as long as he can re- said. member. The former Kinsmen president, former Legion For more information, to donate or to request a president and past Liberal riding president, said volun- flight, visit Angel Flight online at angelflightek.ca. teering is “something I’ve done all my life. It’s part of who

Valley generosity defended

By Dauna Ditson dauna@columbiavalleypioneer.com In response to a news release from the Fraser Institute claiming that giving in Canada is at a 20-year low as a percentage of donor income, local politicians made the case that donating time should be included in the calculation and said those in the valley are to be commended for their generosity.

“While monetary donations are vital because they help to fund important community needs, look also to the number of people involved in organizations, clubs and societies in our communities and especially the diversity of these groups. Most of them are run by volunteers giving of their time, labour, and concern year-round,” said Gerry Wilkie, Area G director. “They should be praised for keeping the spirit of generosity alive and well in the Columbia Valley.”

Luana Gillies, who volunteers with the Valley GoGo Sisters, gives both her dol-

lars and her time.

“I try to donate in a variety of ways,” she said.

While she said her family donates on a regular basis and as crisis situations arise, she also offers her energy to the organizations and causes dearest to her.

Even with people like Gillies taken into account, the Fraser Institute’s study Generosity in Canada and the United States: The 2019 Generosity Index (which relies on data from 2017) indicated that less than 20 per cent of Canadians who filed their taxes claimed charitable donations and that those who did donated 0.54 per cent of their income – the lowest percentage since the 1990s. In British Columbia, annual donations averaged out at $2,570 per donor.

“With Canadians being less generous every year, charities face greater challenges to secure resources to help those in need,” said Jake Fuss, an analyst with the Fraser Institute.

Continued on page 8…

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4 • The Columbia Valley Pioneer

January 9, 2020

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Parent & T t Connect

RCMP Report Submitted by Sgt. Darren Kakuno Detachment Commander Columbia Valley RCMP Not much was going on in the Columbia Valley last week; hopefully this will be a trend for the new year.

This past week, December 30th through January 5th the Columbia Valley RCMP responded to 67 calls for service. The following are some of the more notable files our officers responded to: • On Monday, December 30th an employee with Kootenay National Park reported several batteries were stolen from a shed in the park sometime between December 21st and 22nd.

School district concerned about vaping

By Breanne Massey Special to the Pioneer

(Drop-in program – under 6 years old)

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• On Thursday, January 2nd at about 1:45 p.m. Columbia Valley RCMP responded to a single vehicle rollover on Highway 93 near Marble Canyon in Kootenay National Park. A Chevrolet Blazer was located on its roof in the northbound ditch.

The driver and her three children made their own way to the Banff hospital to be assessed for minor injuries prior to emergency crews arriving. The driver reported losing control of her vehicle as another vehicle was passing her.

• On Sunday, January 5th at about 3:00 a.m. Columbia Valley RCMP received a report of an intoxicated male on Fairmont Street in Windermere. Police located the intoxicated youth and released him to the care of his family.

The craving to vape is increasing among youths in the Columbia Valley.

According to Rocky Mountain School District spokesperson Paul Carriere, David Thompson Secondary School (DTSS) has reported more than double the total number of transgressions from the previous school year.

“The increase in youth vaping has been concerning.

At DTSS, since the beginning of the 2018-19 school year, school administration have dealt with 41 incidences of vaping (28 in the previous school year and 13 so far this year),” said Mr. Carriere via e-mail to the Pioneer.

“The majority of these have been students using vapes in school washrooms. It is one indicator of how widespread the problem has become.”

Vaping occurs when an individual inhales aerosol which contains toxic chemicals in fine particles, commonly referred to as a vapour, from electronic cigarettes (commonly known as e-cigarettes).

According to a recent report from the Centre on Addiction, e-cigarettes are the most popular form of nicotine consumption among middle school and high school students, with an estimated 2.1 million students using them as of 2017. In some cases, the use of e-cigarettes has led to serious health concerns, including but not limited to cancer.

“DTSS reports that lately it does appear that there

are fewer younger students starting, and more older students making an effort to stop,” Mr. Carriere explained.

“There seems to be a growing awareness of the effects of nicotine addiction, how quickly it can set in, and how hard it is to break, in addition to the growing body of knowledge about exposure to other harmful chemicals in the process.

“It’s a positive step that government is increasing taxation on these products, and it would be helpful if there were further restrictions, such as eliminating the flavour options which seem to be such an attraction for youth.”

But the health concerns being raised by teachers and families appear to be making a difference.

“At all schools, students understand that vapes are not allowed and will be confiscated, only to be released to the parent,” said Mr. Carriere, indicating the number of parents who contact the school to pick up confiscated vapes is minimal.

In an effort to raise awareness, educators have jumped at the opportunity to make teens aware of the risks associated with vaping by facilitating student assemblies and conducting classroom visits for administration to discuss the health effects associated with vaping. Mr. Carriere noted that DTSS recently hosted a presentation with cameo appearances from health authorities such as public health nurses, East Kootenay Addictions and Health Canada Anti-Vaping Maze.

Continued on page 10 . . .

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January 9, 2020

The Columbia Valley Pioneer • 5

BEY

ND

THE BLUE LINE

Rockies move into third place in their division Submitted by the Columbia Valley Rockies The Columbia Valley Rockies had a huge three-game weekend on the road, picking up five points, moving solidly into third place (seven points ahead of fourth place), and establishing themselves as a threat in the Eddie Mountain Division.

The Rockies crossed the border and entered the Spokane arena on Friday, January 3rd. The Rockies dominated play, placing more than 50 shots on the Braves’ goalie.

This game would go into double OT and settle nothing as your Rockies came out with a tie and one point. The Braves’ goalie was lucky and good, easily being that team’s star of the night. The Rockies’ goal scorers were Mason Robinson (with help from Gareth Nicholas) in the first and Palmer Sinclair in the second.

On Saturday, January 4th, the Rockies were intent on keeping up the pressure and great effort from the previous night. As the team cruised into Grand Forks, they were hungry and determined to leave a mark – and they did. Bretton Park was outstanding in goal as he recorded another shutout after facing 20 shots in this tilt. Your Rockies opened scoring at the four-minute mark of the first on a beauty ‘top corner where your mom kept the cookie jar’ shot by Jonathan Milligan after a great feed by Hunter Rambow and Tristan Lambert.

In the second, the Rockies imposed their will on the Border Bruins and it showed in the play. The home team frustrations took over and they began a steady stream to

the sin bin. On the power play at 4:28, after terrific puck movement, the boys pumped the twine. Gavin Fleck would take the honour after nifty movement from Palmer Sinclair and Gareth Nichols. Nineteen seconds later, the Rockies broke the hearts of the home team by burying one deep behind the Bruin goalie; this time Zachary Dovichak was rewarded on terrific passes from Gavin Fleck and Kyle Boudreau. The second ended with your Rockies up by three.

In the third the Rockies put on a display of kitty bar the door and shut down the Bruins. They added another goal from Colby Philips with assists from Brennan Nelson and Hunter Rambow. The Rockies picked up another two points and set their sights on the first afternoon tilt of the season the next day in Nelson.

On Sunday the Rockies took on Nelson in their barn.

The team started slow and was hampered by a number of questionable calls in the first two periods. The Leafs scored two in the first period on the power play. In the second your Rockies started to claw back and Gavin Fleck from Gareth Nicholas and Zachary Dovichak brought your team to within one. The home team added another one early in the third, while the Rockies were killing off a second period penalty to take a two goal lead. Then the Leafs continued their head hunting and your Rockies made them pay for their indiscretion. Tristan Lambert from Eric Lloyd brought it to within one. Less than three minutes later it would be Tristan Lambert from Mason Robinson, and Owen Hughes would tie it up at three.

The home team then was penalized for five minutes for a vicious check from behind on a Rockies player who is doing ok. Your Rockies made them pay dearly for that indiscretion and rubbed salt in the open wound. Jonathan Milligan from Eric Lloyd sniped one by the home team. Then, with an empty net and the home team goalie watching with sad eyes on the bench, Loclyn Kabatoff from Eric Lloyd and Hunter Becket would salt this one away. Rockies won 5-3 and took five of a possible six points this weekend.

The Rockies’ next home game will be January 10th and 11th against Kimberley and Spokane. Come on out, cheer your home town team on and show your Rockies pride!

Rockies beat the Border Bruins.

Photo by Karen Fahrni

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6 • The Columbia Valley Pioneer

January 9, 2020

PERSPECTIVE Our third person

Historical Lens

By Dauna Ditson dauna@columbiavalleypioneer.com The editorial department at the Pioneer shrank by 33.33 per cent over the holidays when Lorene Keitch moved on. Now down to two people writing and curating content for the newspaper and our suite of magazines, Steve Hubrecht and I will strive to continue to deliver top-quality stories about the people, news and events happening here.

But we could use your help to make sure we don’t miss anything, now that our editorial team is down to a duo.

Let us know if you have story ideas or written submissions you’d like to share.

Got some great pictures that should be in the Pioneer?

Send them in, and we’ll see if we can make it happen.

Love local sports, business, schools, politics or events?

We’d welcome your photos, letters and updates too.

Collectively, you could be our third person. We’re keeping your seat warm.

Back in the summer of 2017, I came to the Columbia Valley to see if it was the place for me.

After staying at Copper Point Resort, I wandered over to Kicking Horse Coffee where I had a latte and flipped through the Pioneer. It wasn’t a typical newspaper full of bad news and doom and gloom. Instead it was kind of peppy.

One cheers stood out. Someone was praising a family for having gone on vacation and sharing about their trip when they returned.

What kind of people are so appreciative of something so ordinary? Did that cheers – and that whole paper – mean I was in the territory of considerate and giving people?

I walked on. Coming down the Althalmer hill and into town, I saw a heart spray-painted on the sidewalk.

That clinched it. Seriously, that red heart was the selling point. I had to move here. How could I not live in a place where love spills out everywhere?

Around a month later, I settled into the land of cheers and spray-paint hearts.

My niece, who was six at the time, was furious when I moved. But the first time she came to visit she spun in a circle, taking in the Rockies, the Purcells and the valley, and said she understood why I needed to live here.

“It’s beautiful everywhere you look,” she said.

She’s right, but the valley and the people who live here are pretty on the inside too. I know because I’ve been watching you. (Sorry if that’s creepy.) I’ve been welcomed into many of your homes and businesses, have taken your photos at events and have seen up-close how much you volunteer and give to our community.

I’m here because this valley – and this newspaper – are special rarities. I’m happy to keep sharing your stories and would appreciate your help in doing so. Please send any photos, submissions and story ideas to dauna@columbiavalleypioneer.com.

Where the lake becomes the river The Columbia River, circa the early 1900s, flows gently as it leaves Lake Windermere at Athlamer and starts its long journey to Astoria, Oregon, and the fearsome Columbia Bar (at the river’s mouth on the Pacific), here gliding serenely past lumber company warehouses and log pilings meant to guide river-going steamboats plying the stretch between Golden and Invermere. The century-old sunbleached remains of the pilings are still visible to paddlers today.

Photo (A 1230) courtesy Windermere District Historical Society

Flawed process Dear Editor: I’m writing to voice my displeasure with this proposed disposition of Crown land.

First off the process is fundamentally flawed given that our government chose to publish Notice of Intention in the Columbia Valley Pioneer the day after Christmas and then allow only 38 days for comments.

Additionally you have chosen to file this notice at a time when the vast majority of residents and visitors to the region will be unaware of the monumental impact this land disposition will have on their ability to enjoy the land under review.

No doubt you are aware that this land is prime terrain for mountain biking, hiking, trail running, snowshoeing, fat tire biking, etc. The trails in this area are known province-wide and are a real draw to both locals and tourists. Cities like Golden, Revelstoke, Fernie and Valemount have all realized the value of recreational tourism to the community. To use this land would be both an injustice to the community and detrimental to the local economy.

We would be giving an economic boost to the towns highlighted above.

Our government slipped a small notice in the local paper over the holiday season with the full understanding that most locals will miss the notice and tourists will be shocked and disappointed when they find their Columbia Valley vacation destination no longer provides the attractions that brought them to Invermere.

I would hope that some level of common sense might prevail.

At a minimum there should be public hearings and full disclosure to the local community as to the reason, purpose and justification behind this proposed land transfer.

It would also be appropriate for the government and our local MLA to explain why the government had the area under review surveyed and marked months ago but didn’t feel that notice to the community was appropriate at that time.

It is very disconcerting that the Shuswap newsContinued on page 7. . .

The Columbia Valley

CANADIAN COMMUNITY NEWSPAPER AWARD 2013

Pioneer

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

Box 868, #8, 1008 - 8th Ave., Invermere, B.C. V0A 1K0 Phone: 250-341-6299 • Fax: 1-855-377-0312 info@columbiavalleypioneer.com www.columbiavalleypioneer.com

Amanda Nason Associate Publisher/ Sales Manager

Dauna Ditson Editor

Steve Hubrecht Magazine Editor/ Reporter

Lerissa McLaughlin Sales Representative

Emily Rawbon Graphic Design

Amanda Murray Office Administrator/ Sales

The Columbia Valley Pioneer is available free of charge at more than 137 locations in the Upper Columbia Valley, limited to one copy per reader. We are funded solely through the support of our advertisers. We are published every Thursday. The Columbia Valley Pioneer may be distributed only by its authorized contractors and employees. No person may, without the prior written consent of The Pioneer or its Publisher, take more than one copy of each issue of The Pioneer. The content is protected by copyright. Reproduction by any means is prohibited except with the permission of the Publisher.

January 9, 2020

The Columbia Valley Pioneer • 7

LETTERS

1

Daycare parking costly

PRODUCT

2

PRICE

3

PLACE

Dear editor, Just to clarify the parking situation for the new Dragonfly daycare. Strands restaurant did not have to pay for parking when they turned this former residence into a commercial property in the 1980s.

In order to receive our building permit and keep the parking as it is, we had to pay the $23,500. We have applied for a variance to keep the parking the way it has been for 40 years.

Thank you for your support.

Charlotte Streicek, Windermere

Building a better river treaty Dear editor, As Canada and the U.S. continue their negotiations to modernize the Columbia River Treaty, our engagement with those most affected by the Treaty has grown and evolved. I’d like to end 2019 by reflecting on what we have achieved to date.

At the recent Pacific NorthWest Economic Region Economic Leadership Forum in Seattle, I spoke to politicians and stakeholders from both sides of the Canada-U.S. border about how our government has engaged with B.C. communities on the Columbia River Treaty. It’s a source of great pride, not just for me but for the government staff and all those throughout the B.C. Columbia Basin whose contribution has made the process so strong.

When the Treaty was first created in the 1960s, communities and Indigenous Nations were not consulted. More than half a century later, there is still anger and mistrust in Basin communities about the social, environmental and economic impacts resulting from the Treaty. While we can’t undo what was done decades ago, we are moving forward, and we are listening. We are doing things differently this time.

In my lifetime, I’ve seen a huge amount of change. I count myself lucky to be Minister responsible for the Trea-

ty in an era when governments engage directly with Indigenous Nations, local governments, communities and citizens.

Over the past decade, our government and the previous provincial government spent a lot of time talking to people in the Basin, finding out how the Treaty impacted people, and still impacts them and their communities and how it could be improved. These conversations started in 2012 during the Columbia River Treaty Review, and have continued since, through direct engagement with Basin Indigenous Nations, local governments, residents, and non-government organizations.

Last year, as negotiations began, we returned to the communities we consulted with in 2012 to make sure we understood the issues that matter most to them. We provided an update on negotiations and also asked if the issues they had raised in the past reflected the interests of residents today. Did they have additional input to add? The results of those meetings were shared with the Canadian negotiating team so they could further understand the needs of the Basin, as they sit down with the U.S. to negotiate a modernized Treaty.

This fall, we hosted another series of 12 community meetings throughout Please see ‘building’ page 10. . .

. . . ‘Flawed’ from page 6 letter from September 2019 (http://www.shuswapband.net/wp-content/uploads/2019/12/NEWS_S.pdf – page 8 and map page 12) provides the Band with much more information than our government and its representatives have chosen to share with the community!

Maybe if we can “level the playing field” around full and fair disclosure in “consultations,” a more suitable piece of land could be agreed to amongst all parties impacted.

Regards,

Wayne Snider Kelowna (but looking for property in the valley) (Editor’s note: see page 5 of the December 26th Pioneer for the land notice.)

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8 • The Columbia Valley Pioneer

January 9, 2020

. . . ‘Valley generosity’ from page 3 Clara Reinhardt, Radium’s mayor, said it’s governments and the economy that are less generous these days, and perhaps not the people.

“In times when employment is down, and every government is downloading, it is pretty hard to ask for people to give more,” she said.

MLA Doug Clovechok thinks locals are continuing to give what they are able.

“Donations are often based upon the disposable income of the donor and when that income drops, so does the ability to donate. When people or businesses/ organizations in B.C. do not feel confident in the economy or are not sure about their employment stability, they are far

KOOTENAY BATON KONNECTION Eileen Madson Recreational Baton Twirling Program Primary School New Students: 4:30 – 5:30 pm Offering a 15-week introduction to this safe, affordable and FUN activity Returning students from fall program: for children ages 6 and older!

5:30 – 6:30 & 6:30 – 7:30 pm Program will run from THURSDAY JANUARY 9th to APRIL 30th $80 per Participant Batons for sale (new & 2nd hand)

TO REGISTER OR FOR MORE INFORMATION: Contact Karen Gratton at 250-270-0142 or email karenjgratton@gmail.com Students may also register on January 9th at 4 pm.

Card of Thanks A tremendous thank you to all individuals and the following businesses who donated to the annual Wilmer Christmas Eve fireworks – including Pat Hemmelgarn for his fundraising efforts: • Royal Canadian Legion Branch 71 • Faralee Chanin Prof. Corp.

• Wilmer ECO Developments • K5 Mechanical • Rocky River Grill • Pizzeria Mercato • König Meats • Lambert Insurance • Columbia Valley Sewer & Drain Ltd. • Murray Davidson Accounting • Max Helmer Construction

• • • • • • • • • • •

Arrowhead Brewery Columbia Valley Trading Co. NAPA Auto Parts Hubbard & Blakley A&W Invermere Lucky Strike Gas Canadian Tire Valley Foods Sobeys JR Enterprises RONA Northstar Hardware • Aspire Accounting • J&J Cote Enterprises

And to anyone we missed, our apologies.

Special thanks to Shawn & Dustin Murray, Tyler Brockmeyer & Pat Hemmelgarn, Kootenay Coffee Works, Tom & Sue Hoyne, Local View Print Shop, The Valley Peak, Valley Sign Artists, Garrett Brockmeyer & Kassandra McKay, Teryl Hemmelgarn & Darla Spiry.

Happy New Year everyone, see you next year!

Please recycle this newspaper

less likely to offer a donation. Add that to B.C.’s increasing fuel costs, increasing ICBC rates, increasing hydro costs, increasing property taxes, increasing food costs – to mention but a few – also impact a donor’s ability to give,” he said. “I have heard from constituents that it is hard to offer charity when they themselves are struggling to make ends meet.”

Susan Clovechok, Area F director, donates what she can and chooses organizations to support based on their impact on families. She said she sees many locals donating their efforts.

“It is unfortunate that people’s time isn’t measured. I have worked in the not-for-profit world and understand that the donation of time is often worth as much or more than money. So if you can’t donate financially consider

donating some of your time,” she said.

Legacy giving (which means leaving a charitable contribution in your will) can be another solution for getting funding to non-profits, Reinhardt said.

“Personally, I like to fund local charities such as Radium Hot Springs’ library and Columbia Valley Food Bank. I also like the Salvation Army, as they are one of very few charities who support single men who require shelter and support,” she said. “My only challenge to people who are looking for a place to donate is to give with passion.”

As of press time, the Columbia Valley Community Foundation hadn’t advised if they’d seen a change in donations.

Financial New Year’s Resolutions Submitted by Sara Worley & Brendan Donahue Investment Advisors, Manulife Securities Incorporated For many, the new year brings new financial resolutions. Unsure of how to go about it? Here’s how to get started.

Set SMART goals When people fail to reach their goals, the reason why isn’t always due to a lack of effort, or a deficiency on their part. Often, they fail due to the nature of the goal itself.

The key to success in any endeavour is to set SMART goals and see them through. A SMART goal is one that is specific, measurable, attainable, realistic and time-sensitive. A vague goal like “save more money” or a potentially unrealistic one like “become debt free” lack focus, and, if insurmountable, guarantees failure. A SMART financial goal might be to save $3,000 by the end of the year by saving $250 per month, rather than simply deciding to “save more.”

The lay of the land Before making any new financial decisions, consider writing or updating a personal budget and net worth statement. This will spell out your current income, expenses, assets and liabilities and provide the necessary framework for making financial decisions.

Unsure about where your money goes? Consider using a spreadsheet or an online program like Mint to track spending. This will help highlight adverse spending behaviour and how much money is available for other financial goals.

It’s important to remember that even with a budget in place, it’s easy to become complacent about finances.

Even when regulating spending, attempting to save money through everyday activities is worthwhile, and spending for the sake of spending is a poor mindset.

Debt reduction Few people think of paying down debt as a form of savings, but in actuality payments over and above one’s minimum “earn” a risk-free rate equal to the interest rate charged on the debt. This “return” comes in the form of

cost savings and paying interest on a smaller principal portion than before.

Further, high-interest debt “earns” more than low-interest, so there’s an incentive to pay off credit cards and lines of credit sooner than one’s mortgage.

Make no mistake, except for in certain circumstances, debt reduction is an appropriate solution for every Canadian and should be a part of their financial picture.

Savings goals Those who have their debts under control should consider setting savings goals and strategies in which to achieve them. First, identify the goals you most want to achieve, such as building an emergency fund of at least three months’ income, maxing out an RRSP or TFSA, or contributing to an RESP. Those who aren’t sure what they should do are encouraged to speak with their financial advisor.

Consider income When it comes to financial management, many people are disproportionally focused on controlling expenditures.

However, with many costs of life being fixed, it’s just as prudent to analyze one’s level of income, and more specifically, whether it can be boosted in 2020.

To do this, consider a career change, an extra part-time job or starting a small business. Sometimes, time is better spent earning more money than obsessively cutting back on spending.

Final thoughts There are many things other than budgets that need reviewing on a regular basis. These items include ensuring that one’s will and personal directives are current and upto-date. In the age of increased fraud, one’s credit report should be checked annually to ensure the information is current and all items on it belong.

Failure to plan is one of the biggest reasons why people struggle against financial headwinds. Start from the bottom up: set SMART goals and commit to them. Once this framework is in place, let consistency and dedication do the work.

GIC Rates as of January 6th

Investments, Insurance & Financial Planning Brendan Donahue

Sara Worley

BCOMM, CIM, FCSI

CIM®, FCSI®

Senior Investment Advisor Insurance Agent

Investment Advisor Insurance Agent

Holly Jones Manulife Securities Incorporated is a Member of the Canadian Investor Protection Fund and a Member of the Investment Industry Regulatory Organization of Canada. Stocks, bonds, financial planning and mutual funds are offered through Manulife Securities Incorporated. Insurance products and services are offered through Manulife Securities Insurance Agency. The Manulife Securities logo and the Block Design are trademarks of The Manufacturers Life Insurance Company and are used by it, and by its affiliates under license.

BA,

Investment Associate, Insurance Agent

Free consultations! • Ph: 250-342-2112 • Fax: 250-342-2113 • 530 13th Street , Invermere • www.invermereadvisors.com

1 yr 2 yr 3 yr 4 yr 5 yr

2.25% 2.30% 2.30% 2.35% 2.46%

*Rates subject to change without notice.

January 9, 2020

The Columbia Valley Pioneer • 9

The incredible igloo of Lake Windermere

By Steve Hubrecht steve@columbiavalleypioneer.com

“So many people have come. We didn’t expect that. On the second day there were two van loads of tourists who came to the igloo, and on the third day people just kept stopping by every day,” said Francis Bilodeau. “Even on New Year’s Eve, I was in the igloo until 11:30 p.m. and there were still people coming by to check it out.”

Francis had talked about making an ice-block igloo during a trip with a friend to the Canmore ski swap back in the fall. The idea percolated in Francis’s head for a while, but gained traction earlier this winter thanks to an ice fishing shack that no longer sits on Lake Windermere. Francis’s brother Jeannot is part of an ice fishing group who for years have used a shack in the village of ice fishing huts that sprouts up on the lake just east of the Eddie Mountain Arena. The shack’s owner, however, moved back east this year, taking his fishing hut with him, leaving the group without a winter abode on the lake.

“It was telling this to Francis, and he said, ‘let’s make an igloo,’” said Jeannot. A few days and a call-out on Facebook later, a crew of local residents, including Yannick Dupont, Heath Pierson, Philippe Binda, Leslie Cunningham, Cortney Pitts, Emilie Lamoureux, Thierry Provencher, Maxime Palenaude, Jeannot’s kids and several others, were out en masse helping turn the icy idea into reality.

The building process was relatively straightforward, albeit not necessarily easy.

Francis and others used chainsaws to cut blocks of ice from the lake, fishing them out with ropes. Jeannot, who is a stonemason, carved the chunks of ice to fit into the igloo, making the cuts by eye, and then the team would put the blocks in place, using slush and water as mortar.

“It was mostly minus 8, minus ten (degrees Celsius), so they would fuse and set almost instantly,” says Jeannot. “The last block, the capstone, took about an hour and a half, but mostly the igloo was not too difficult. I had made some igloos out of snow

Take a pair of brothers, a group of dedicated friends, a departed ice fishing shack, and an ice-carved insight. Add an expansive frozen lake, solidly subzero temperatures, a few chainsaws and five days of good, fun hard work and, voilà, you have the latest Lake Windermere winter wonder.

Columbia Valley residents and visitors alike watched with curious fascination during the Christmas holidays as a group of eight to 10 locals built an honest-to-goodness ice-block igloo, cutting, hauling, carving and building up the crystalline structure one frigid slab at a time. The igloo has been complete for more than a week now, standing in frosty splendour by the northernmost ice fishing shack village on Lake Windermere. It’s hard to miss — the round dome gleams like glass and, until warmer temperatures last weekend, it sat encircled by ice-block inukshuks and benches.

The igloo has generated no small buzz in the community, becoming something of a minor local attraction, with troops of onlookers marching out in a steady stream to inspect it, gawk at it, snap selfies with it, and (with the builders’ permission) even crawl in the thing. What’s it like inside? Pretty cool. (What else would you expect? It’s made of ice.)

The igloo builders have been surprised at the reaction to their creation, but are taking it all in stride.

Igloo in the making.

Submitted photos.

before. Ice is a little more tricky, but it’s not rocket science. At the beginning it’s easy, everything is a 20 degree angle, but as the layers go up, you get more angles.”

The cold temperatures meant that every night the ice on the lake grew a bit thicker.

This in turn meant that any ice blocks cut on one day were a different size than those from the day before (or the day after), which complicated the igloo construction somewhat, because the blocks for each layer need to be the same size.

Once the structure was finished, the team used a blowtorch on the ice, making the igloo utterly transparent and super shiny. The ice has since become a bit more opaque, partly from sitting out in the elements, partly from the condensation from the breath of people inside, and partly from people touching it both inside and out, but the igloo is still a shimmering sight to behold, and looks just as stunning in the evening, with the team using lights to illuminate it, as in the day.

Above-zero conditions during the past weekend melted away the inukshuks and ice benches, but the igloo itself still stands. The team has put up a ‘Keep Out’ sign on the door for safety reasons. Please respect the sign and only enter with permission of the creators.

“We had so much fun,” said Francis. “Every time a kid came crawling out the (igloo) door, they had a great big smile on their face.”

The brothers and friends are already mulling over plans to perhaps make the igloo again next year.

Music & Movies Cinefest Film - Jan 14 Love it Live - Jan 23 columbiavalleyarts.com PYNELOGS CULTURAL CENTRE, ART GALLERY & CAFE ALLIUM HOURS: CALL FOR MORE INFO AT 250.342.4423

10 • The Columbia Valley Pioneer

January 9, 2020 . . . ‘Building’ letter from page 7

Apply now COMMUNITY INITIATIVES AND AFFECTED AREAS PROGRAM Wish to apply for project funding?

The Community Initiatives & Affected Areas Program is now accepting applications for: •City of Cranbrook •City of Fernie •City of Kimberley •District of Elkford •District of Invermere •District of Sparwood •Village of Canal Flats •Village of Radium Hot Springs

ADMINISTERED & MANAGED BY

•Electoral •Electoral •Electoral •Electoral •Electoral •Electoral

Area Area Area Area Area Area

A B C E F G

Applications must be submitted using the Trust’s online application system.

Learn more at: www.rdek.bc.ca or contact Tina Hlushak or Shannon Moskal at 250-489-2791 or 1-888-478-7335 or CIPApplications@rdek.bc.ca

1.250.489.2791 1.888.478.7335

Apply by 2:00pm, Monday, January 20, 2020

A PROGRAM OF

INVITATION TO TENDER Timber Ridge and Swansea Water Project The Regional District of East Kootenay invites tenders for the supply and installation of 200mm and 300mm diameter HDPE watermains by horizontal directional drill. The project includes a highway crossing, tie-ins to existing mains, and the supply and installation of two pressure reducing stations and related works.

Contract Documents are available: On-line ONLY at BC Bid on or after December 19, 2019 Please refer to the tender posting on BC Bid for closing time, location and details on the non-mandatory pre-tender site meeting.

This Tender is being issued electronically through the BC Bid website www.bcbid.gov.bc.ca.

All addenda, amendments or further information will be published on the BC Bid website. It is the sole responsibility of the Tenderer to monitor the website regularly to check for updates.

For further information, please visit www.bcbid.gov.bc.ca or contact: Gavin Nummi P.Eng. MPE Engineering Ltd. gnummi@mpe.ca

19 – 24 Avenue South, Cranbrook BC V1C 3H8 250-489-2791 | 1-888-478-7335 | Fax: 250-489-3498 info@rdek.bc.ca | www.rdek.bc.ca

Under New Ownership

the B.C. Basin, to provide an update on negotiations, Indigenous Nations-led work to address ecosystems, and progress that has been made by the Province to address Treaty-related community interests.

These meetings allow our government, and the Government of Canada, to engage face-to-face at the local level. They also allow us to hear what people have to say. A summary report of these meetings will be available in the new year.

We hold as many local meetings as we can but, because we’re mindful that not everyone can attend, we posted one of the meetings on our YouTube channel and even livestreamed one of the meetings, recognizing that Basin communities are very passionate about the region, the river and the Treaty.

Where governments half a century ago didn’t consult, today we do, and if anything, we try to go beyond the call of duty to do so.

We launched a quarterly Columbia River Treaty newsletter this year to keep people informed about the negotiations and other Treaty-related news. The Treaty Facebook and Twitter accounts are another means for people to get the latest news and let us know what they’re thinking.

It’s also important to get input from local governments in the Basin. Since 2011, the Columbia River Treaty Local Governments’ Committee has met regularly with government representatives and submitted their own recommendations on the future of the Treaty. We also get guidance from the Columbia Basin Regional Advisory Committee, a Basin-wide group with a wide range of interests established by the B.C. government, the Local Governments’ Committee and BC Hydro in 2014.

Some of the most valuable guidance we receive comes out of our relationship with Columbia Basin Indigenous Nations. . . . ‘Vaping’ from 4 “Across the District we have been engaged in efforts to educate about the negative health effects of this habit,” he said.

In addition, newsletters and direct e-mails have been sent to families in the Columbia Valley, signage to discourage users has been posted in all secondary-school washrooms, offices and counselling centres for those who need help,

Open daily – 11 am - 2 am

• Kitchen open daily Mon – Sat, 11 am -11 pm.

Sunday, 11 am- 9:30 pm.

1310 7th Avenue, Invermere • Friday & Saturday Pizza and 250-341-3344 • coppercitysaloon.com Appetizers til Midnight.

Katrine Conroy, Minister Responsible for the Columbia Basin Trust, Columbia Power Corporation and Columbia River Treaty and the board policy has been updated to indicate that vaping is a serious health risk and a violation of the code of conduct.

For parents who want to learn more, Mr. Carriere recommends the following sites, which are being used for education and awareness within the school district.

They are https://teen.smokefree.gov/ quit-vaping and https://www.canada.ca/ en/services/health/campaigns/vaping. html .

NEW MENU!

• Playing all major sport games including NBA Playoff Games and all NHL Playoff Games on our brand new TVs • Live Entertainment every Friday and Saturday

When the Treaty was drafted, Indigenous Nations weren’t consulted at all. Today they are partners in this process.

This year, the Government of Canada announced that Basin Indigenous Nations would join the Columbia River Treaty negotiations as official observers. This was an unprecedented step that B.C. supported, and demonstrates our commitment to the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples and to our journey towards reconciliation. It was part of the evolution of our collaboration with the Ktunaxa, Secwepemc, and Syilx/Okanagan Nations.

These Nations had been collaborating with us and the Government of Canada on negotiation positions and strategies since the current Treaty negotiations began in early 2018.

They have also contributed a great deal to the discussions through the work they are leading on ecosystem function and salmon reintroduction.

When the Columbia River Treaty was created, governments generally shut people out; they tended to just get on with doing what they wanted to do.

What we’ve learned is that once you start listening, you realize that those other perspectives aren’t holding you back, they are helping you move forward.

As we move forward together in the current discussions about the Treaty, we do so having built a stronger foundation through engagement with the people most affected by the Treaty.

The feedback we get is vital – whether at community meetings, or by email, phone calls or social media posts. Everything informs the discussions at the negotiating table, so I encourage people to let us know what you’re thinking.

CHICKEN FINGERS & FRIES

$15

QUESADILLA

$15

TURKEY CLUB

$15

RUEBEN FISH TACOS FISH & CHIPS BEEF DIP STEAK SANDWICH

all burgers topped with garlic mayo, lettuce, tomato, pickle, onion, served on a locally made bun and topped with a crispy onion ring.

SIGNATURE GRILLED CHICKEN

$16

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VEGETABLE BURGER

$15

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COPPER BURGER

$15

CRISPY MEXI CHICKEN

$16

BBQ BURGER

$18

GREG NORMAN

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1 PC $15 2 PC $19 $16 $18

January 9, 2020

The Columbia Valley Pioneer • 11

WHAT’S HAPPENING

Buying or selling?

in the Columbia Valley Submissions must be received by Monday. Priority is given to one-off events. Email info@columbiavalleypioneer.com to enter your event in our FREE listings.

Thursday, January 9

Sunday, January 12 • 10:30-1 p.m.: Pickleball at Columbia Lake Recreation Centre.

• 1:30 p.m.: Seniors carpet bowling at the Radium Hot Springs Centre.

Monday, January 13 • 10 a.m. – 12 p.m.: Baby Goose at the Invermere Library for caregivers and babies 0-24 mths. Brought to you by CBAL • 10 a.m. – 12 p.m. Join Parks Canada at Kootenay National Park’s Centennial Kick-Off and unveiling of Canada Post’s new Kootenay stamp at the Radium community centre. Learn about centennial events and enjoy light refreshments.

• 10-12 p.m.: Pickleball at Columbia Lake Recreation Centre. (Beginner classes at 9:30 a.m.)

• 10 a.m.: Senior Singalong Group meets every Monday at Garden Village.

Tuesday, January 14

Canal Flats Monthly Book Exchange at the Discovery Centre Wednesday, January 15 from 3:30-4:30 p.m.

y

• 10:30 - 11:30 a.m.: Family Free Play at the Invermere Library with Lego, Magnatiles & more!

• 10:30 - 11:30 a.m.: Melty Beads Club at the Radium Hot Springs Public Library, 4863 Stanley St., Radium BC. • 12 p.m.: 19th Annual Snow Golf on the lake at Kinsmen Beach, Invermere. Registration from 11 a.m. until noon.Tickets $35. Must be 19 years or older.

• 1-3 p.m.: Pickleball at Columbia Lake Recreation Centre.

• 1-3:30 p.m.: Stitch & Chat Knitting Club at the Radium Hot Springs Public Library.

• 7 p.m..: Columbia Valley Rockies VS Spokane Braves Eddie Mountain Arena.

• DJ at Copper City Saloon.

• 10-1 p.m.: Indoor Walking at the Columbia Valley Centre in Invermere. Every Monday and Wednesday. All ages. Indoor shoes required.

• 10:30 a.m.: Seniors Fitness at Invermere Seniors Hall. Cost $2.

• 1:30 p.m.: Carpet Bowling at Invermere Seniors Hall.

• 7-9 p.m.: Live music every Monday at the Horsethief Creek Pub and Eatery in Radium Hot Springs.

10:30 a.m.: Seniors Fitness at Invermere Seniors Hall. Cost $2.

UPCOMING EVENTS

e Vall

Saturday, January 11

The unique and popular Kinsmen Snow Golf Tournament returns on Saturday, January 11th.

File photo

o l u m bia

• 10-12 p.m.: Pickleball at Columbia Lake Recreation Centre. (Beginner classes at 9:30 a.m.)

• 1 p.m.: Duplicate Bridge at Invermere Seniors Hall, $2.

• 2-3 p.m.: STEAM Afternoon at Columbia House (1030 10th St) brought to you by the Invermere Library. FREE, Drop-in & All ages welcome for intergenerational fun!.

• 5-8 p.m.: Climbing Wall at JA Laird open to the public every Friday, Saturday and Sunday. Drop in, $5.

• 6 p.m.: Columbia Valley Car Club meets at Rocky River Grill. 2nd Friday of the month. Dinner 6 p.m., meeting starts 7 p.m. For info, call Vicki 250-342-1257.

• 6 p.m.: Meat Draw and 50/50 at Branch 71 Legion in Invermere. Every Friday and Saturday.

• 7:30 p.m.: Columbia Valley Rockies VS Kimberley Dynamiters Eddie Mountain Arena. Support the Food Bank by bringing food or donations to the game.

• DJ at Copper City Saloon.

Cell: 250•341•1395 Toll Free: 1•888•258•9911

vin g th eC

Friday, January 10

PERSONAL REAL ESTATE CORPORATION

Ser

• 10-4 p.m.: Valley Piecemakers Quilt Guild at the Legion. $8 for lunch.

New members welcome. $20 / year membership. Email Valleypiecemakers@gmail.com for info.

• 10:30 a.m.: Stretch and Move Classes for Seniors at Invermere Seniors Hall. Cost $2.

• 10:30 a.m.: Family Story Time at the Invermere Library with stories, songs and a craft!

• 12:30-4 p.m.: Radium Art Guild every Thursday at the Radium centre.

New members welcome.

• 1:30 p.m.: Floor curling at Invermere Seniors Hall. $2.

• 1:30 p.m.: Seniors carpet bowling at the Radium Hot Springs Centre.

• 2 p.m.: Seniors Tea at the Invermere Library 2nd and 4th Thursday of every month. Need a ride? Contact the library at 250-342-6416.

• 6-8 p.m.: Columbia Valley Youth Network at the Canal Flats Civic Centre. See Facebook page for details.

• 6-8 p.m.: Columbia Valley Youth Network at the Radium gym every second Thursday. See Facebook page for details.

• 6:30 p.m.: Texas Hold ‘Em Tournament at the Invermere Legion every Thursday. $35 buy in.

• 9 p.m.: Karaoke at Horsethief Creek Pub & Eatery every Thursday.

Check-out a book without driving in winter conditions!

Register for a FREE library card by showing photo ID with a local address.

invermere.bc.libraries.coop

• 10-4 p.m.: Windermere museum winter hours.

• 10-12 p.m.: Fairmont and Community Seniors Club meet at The Lions Den in Fairmont for exercise and monthly speakers.

• 1-2:30 p.m.: Free iPad, iPhone and Mac support at Radium Library by appointment. To book appts, call 250-347-2434 • 1:30 p.m.: Games Afternoon at Invermere Seniors Hall.

• 1:30 p.m.: Cards games for seniors at Radium Hot Springs Centre.

• 3-4:30 p.m.: Free iPad, iphone and Mac support at Invermere Library by appointment. To book appt., call 250-342-6416.

• 6 - 7:30 p.m.: Family Movie Night: The Secret Life of Pets. The Radium Hot Springs Public Library. 4863 Stanley St, Radium BC. • 6:30 p.m.: Second Winds Community band rehearsal. Open for all wind instrument musicians. Canadian Martyrs Church, Invermere.

• 6:30 p.m.: Seniors card games at the Radium Hot Springs Centre.

• 7 p.m.: Trivia night at the Farside Inn every Tuesday • 9 p.m.: Karaoke at the Farside Pub in Fairmont.

Wednesday, January 15 • 10-12 p.m.: Pickleball at Columbia Lake Recreation Centre. (Beginner classes at 9:30 a.m.)

• 10-1 p.m.: Indoor walking at the Columbia Valley Centre.

• 10:30 a.m.: Chair Yoga at Invermere Seniors Hall, $ 2.

• 11:45 a.m.: The Rotary Club of Invermere meets 1st and 3rd Wednesday at the Rocky River Grill/Kanata Inn. • 12:30 - 1:30 p.m.: Understanding Your Dreams Intro Session at the Invermere Library facilitated by Crisanna MacLeod. Contact us to register 250-342-6416.

• 1:30-3:30 p.m.: Happy Hands Knitting and Crocheting group meeting every Wednesday at Columbia Garden Village.

• 2 p.m.: Genealogy Group at Columbia Gardens Coffee Room. Every 3rd Wednesday of the month.

• 3:30-4:30 p.m.: Invermere Library’s Canal Flats Book Exchanger at the Discovery Centre (8866 Grainger Road). All welcome!

• 6-8 p.m.: Glow in the Dark Ultimate frisbee at Mount Nelson field. $5 drop-in fee.

• 6:30-7:30 p.m.: Understanding Your Dreams Intro Session at the Invermere Library facilitated by Crisanna MacLeod. Contact us to register 250-342-6416.

• 7 p.m.: Cribbage at Invermere Seniors Hall. $2.

• 7 p.m.: Cribbage at Edgewater Legion. $2.

Thursday, January 16 • 10:30 a.m.: Preschool Story Time at the Invermere Library with stories, songs and a craft!

• 1-3 p.m.: Crafternoon at the Invermere Library. Drop-in for a fun, free craft!

• 2 p.m.: Senior’s Tea at the Invermere Library. All welcome!

• 5:15 - 7 p.m.: Drop-in Indoor Soccer for ages 10 to 18 at Columbia Lake Recreation Centre. $3 drop-in fee.

LIVE MUSIC FIREPITS SKATING BONSPIEL ON THE LAKE TASTE OF THE VALLEY 6-8 PM FIREWORKS 8 PM

Don’t miss: Kinsmen Snow Golf Tournament The 19th annual Kinsmen Snow Golf Tournament is 18 holes of snow golf on frozen Lake Windermere on Saturday, January 11th. Each hole in this unique sporting event ranges from 75 yards to 185 yards. The tournament typically sees 18 to 24 foursomes and is played out on the icy expanse of Taynton Bay. Tickets are $35 per person and are on sale at the Station Pub. All proceeds go to the Kinsmen Club, which uses them for various community projects.

Registration opens at 11 a.m. and golfing begins with a shotgun start at 12 noon.

12 • The Columbia Valley Pioneer

January 9, 2020

Taking yoga outside

By Dauna Ditson dauna@columbiavalleypioneer.com Natalie Forrest prefers to be outside and has a doctorate in applied eco-psychology (the study of human connection with nature) to prove it.

“When I first started practicing yoga, I would inevitably end up out on the deck or on the lawn doing my own practice,” she said. “To me there was always something much more fulfilling about being outside with my practice than in a studio.”

Noticing the contrast, she wanted to understand why yoga felt so much better outdoors. Her search for the answer resulted in her book, EcoYogaTherapy: Yoga with nature, a guide to exploring your inner world through nature.

“Most people think that yoga is stretching, and while stretching may occur it’s not the purpose of yoga,” she said. “Yoga is the ability to notice one’s patterns of thinking and be able to dissolve them so a person can be more present.”

While modern yoga classes are often offered in-

doors, she went through translations of early yogic texts to see if she could find nature there. It was very subtly everywhere – from the names of the poses (which include mountain and tree poses) to a warning not to practice in full sunlight. One text she came across said that yoga should be done on a deerskin mat deep in the forest.

“Was it so obvious that people didn’t realize that (nature) was supposed to be a part of the yoga practice from the beginning?” she asked.

Continued on page 14…

Greta Thunberg’s words “too severe” Fresh old ideas

By Arnold Malone Pioneer Columnist Opinions in this column are the author’s alone and do not reflect the Pioneer’s outlook.

No one should take the view that environmental responsibility is a job for someone else. The environment is the responsibility of policy makers and, of course, all of us.

On this theme Greta Thunberg has gained a lot of worldwide fans that cheer her advocacy. Nevertheless, while granting her a measure of truth, I reserve a healthy dose of scepticism.

She is a used child. She was first noticed at age 15.

Now, at age 16 it is clear that she is not funded by her family’s income. It wasn’t her paper route that allowed her to cross the Atlantic in a three-million-dollar solar ship.

It is her acid-soaked language that is so disturbing.

It was imprudent for a 16-year-old to stand in the

General Assembly of the United Nations and boldly shout, “How dare you.”

“You have stolen my dreams and my childhood with your empty words.”

Additionally, she scolds, “We will never forgive you.”

Her condemnation of world leaders was extraordinarily harsh while pretending that her generation will be the saviour of the planet.

Your speeches, Greta, call for no distinction between humans and all other creatures. You advocate that every person should be vegan. You claim that you never buy new clothes and scold we who do. So, may I ask, where do the clothes come from when what we are wearing becomes tattered?

With language that was too severe for a 16 year old you chided the ambassadors at the United Nations and charged that they: “… lacked the maturity to act on environmental problems.” At age 16 you need to be more careful as to whom you think lacks maturity.

You oppose air flights and ocean shipping. You condemn imports and exports. So where do Canadians get vitamin C if we cannot import citrus in the winter?

This past December the first all-electric freighter plane flew from Vancouver to Victoria. Yet you insist that all air traffic must stop or your generation will never forgive us.

Our generation has not sat idle. In our lifetime we have created fuel-efficient cars, well insulated homes, high-efficient furnaces, scrubbers for smoke stacks, major grids for hydro power, highly efficient batteries, wind turbines and solar panels, and we

Kootenay Centennial Centenaire du parc Kick-Off Celebration and national Kootenay Canada Post Stamp Unveiling What’s happening?

In 2020, Kootenay National Park will celebrate its 100th anniversary. Join Parks Canada to launch Kootenay’s centennial celebration and unveil the new Canada Post Kootenay stamp.

Monday January 13, 2020 10 am to 12 pm Radium Community Centre 4863 Stanley St, Radium Hot Springs, BC For more information, contact: pc.KNP100-100PNK.pc@canada.ca

continue, rapidly, to develop additional carbon reducing procedures.

You have claimed in your speeches that an environmental catastrophe will come from insensitive people buying and building things. So what happens, Greta, if everyone stops buying and building things?

You crossed the ocean in a ship that had neither a toilet nor electricity. Then championed yourself for being environmentally responsible. You neglect that it was a wealthy person who designed and built that ship – so to use your standard – they contributed to environmental degradation.

It is our civilized society that has eradicated many diseases and lifted so many from poverty. You should not mock all that has been gained.

If we adults stopped all of the advancements that you criticize, your generation would be in endless free fall.

You shout platitudes and slogans at world leaders in North America and Europe and claim that your generation has little to live for. What a cop out. Under the system you advocate human society would return to a life of hunters and gatherers.

Your notion that humans should never disturb nature misses the point. All critters disturbed nature. It is by the use of nature that creatures exist. Why are you so willing to demote humans while defending rodents?

If all of the activities that Greta Thunberg condemns were shut down, there would be a consequential human catastrophe.

We must continue to act aggressively on environmental protection but with a lot of respect for consequences.

Arnold Malone served as MP for Alberta’s Battle River and Crowfoot ridings from 1974 through 1993. He retired to Invermere in 2007.

Coup d’envoi et dévoilement d’un timbre de Postes Canada

ON THE LAKE

Que se passe-t-il?

En 2020, le parc national Kootenay célébrera son 100e anniversaire.

Joignez-vous à Parcs Canada pour lancer les célébrations du centenaire et dévoiler un nouveau timbre de Postes Canada qui porte une illustration du parc.

at KINSMEN BEACH Saturday, January 11th

Le lundi 13 janvier 2020 De 10 h à midi Centre communautaire de Radium 4863, rue Stanley, Radium Hot Springs (Colombie-Britannique) Renseignements : pc.KNP100-100PNK.pc@canada.ca

GET YOUR TICKETS NOW!

250-342-5557 PRIZES and a GREAT TIME for EVEYONE!

Shotgun start at noon Scramble golf format

January 9, 2020

The Columbia Valley Pioneer • 13

SO MUCH MORE THAN SNOW!

Night skiing at Fairmont Hot Springs Resort.

Photos submitted.

Flurry of winter fun at Fairmont

By Steve Hubrecht steve@columbiavalleypioneer.com Fairmont Hot Springs Resort (FHSR) has more winter fun up its snow-laden sleeve that you can throw snowballs at. The resort’s fantastic family-friendly ski resort opened up just before the Christmas holidays. When all your fun sliding on the slopes is done for the day, you can hop right into the resort’s natural mineral hot springs since sameday access to the pools comes free with purchase of a ski lift ticket.

And, as if that weren’t enough, the resort has a raft of special events stretching right through the winter season catering to young and mature alike.

“Our events are all designed to create an immersive experience for guests of all ages and all ski abilities,” said FHSR chief executive officer Vivek Sharma. “We have developed a variety of events featuring different themes, but with the common thread of ski hill thrills, enhanced with off-hill activities. And of course, our legendary mineral hot pools are available to all ski hill guests…the perfect way to end the day immersed in soothing waters surrounded by spectacular views of the Rocky Mountains.”

The special events start with Chinese New Year family fun on Saturday, January 25th, which will include a red envelope hunt with fun prizes, a campfire and treat and craft-making, all followed by a Chinese New Year’s buffet at Antlers at the lodge. The very next day, Sunday, January 26th, will be Aussie Day at the Fairmont Hot Springs ski hill with all manner of Australian-inspired food and drink specials, as well as an Aussie animal scavenger hunt, games and trivia.

In February, the resort will host a Cupid hunt and Valentine’s Day crafts, treats and a campfire for kids on Friday, February 14th and then a classic Newlywed Game in the evening at Desperados for the adults. On Sunday, February 16th there will be a Snow Pirates treasure hunt during which kids can hunt for hidden treasures and (weather permitting) build a frosty snow ship.

In March Columbia Valley residents can ski at Fairmont for just $2 per person during the ever-popular Locals’ Day on Saturday, March 7th. Locals’ Day will also feature a “Hunt Monty on the Hill”event, as well as a barbecue and DJ on the ski chalet deck (weather permitting).

The Starlight Challenge is back again too. The Challenge is part of the night skiing the ski hill offers each Friday evening throughout February from 4 p.m. to 9 p.m. The Starlight Challenge itself — a fun racing event in which people race in pairs — runs from 7 p.m. to 9 p.m. on those nights.

Fairmont Hot Springs Resort offers a family-friendly ski hill plus events for everyone – and the best Après-Ski in the valley!

Every ski lift ticket includes FREE same-day access to our relaxing natural mineral hot springs.

E V E N TS

January 25 – Chinese New Year Family Fun: Red Envelope Hunt with fun prizes, campfire, treat and craft-making, and a Chinese New Year’s Buffet at Antlers at the lodge.

January 26 – Aussie Day at the Ski Hill: Australian-inspired food and drink specials, a fun Aussie Animal Scavenger Hunt, games and trivia.

Every Friday evening in February, it’s Night Skiing (4pm to 9pm) and the Starlight Challenge (7pm to 9pm).

February 14 – Valentine’s Day at the Ski Hill: Cupid Hunt, Valentine’s Day crafts for the kids, campfire and treats. In the evening, it’s the Classic Newlywed Game at Desperados.

February 16 – Snow Pirates! Hunt for hidden treasures and build a cool snow ship (weather permitting).

March 7 – Locals Day: Locals ski for only a Toonie all day! Join us for our “Hunt Monty on the Hill” event, BBQ and DJ on the Ski Chalet deck (weather permitting).

Visit www.fairmonthotsprings.com/events-and-festivals for details

FAIRMONT HOT SPRINGS, BRITISH COLUMBIA www.fairmonthotsprings.com | Toll free: 1.800.663.4979

14 • The Columbia Valley Pioneer

January 9, 2020

Connecting mental wellness and adventure Submitted by The Lady Alliance Kootenay Valley Chapter The Lady Alliance, a local women’s empowerment community, is bringing a ski film night to Invermere and Cranbrook this January, in support of Power To Be, a non-profit organization based in British Columbia.

Our local Kootenay Valley Chapter of The Lady Alliance (based out of Invermere and Cranbrook, B.C.), is headed up by our local chapter coordinator Kayla Kay who is passionate about mental wellness, self-love, building confidence, and getting more women into the outdoors. Holding monthly activities and meetups that are free or low in cost, we hope to encourage all ladies to come meet new people and try new activities.

We are hosting a five-location ladies ski film series this January, and will be starting the tour off with a bang in Invermere on Thursday, January 16th at 6 p.m. at Ullr Bar. After our launch party we will head to Cranbrook, Kelowna, Calgary, and Saskatoon.

Seeking Stoke: A Ladies Ski Film Series is a unique film tour with a series of empowering clips meant to build confidence and community through adventure.

These incredible films showcase real women sharing their passions, sports and skills. It’s the perfect night to enjoy with your family and friends no matter your gender, ski level, or stoke for snow.

Our tour features a collection of lady-led films that show women pushing their comfort levels and redefining what it means to be a woman in the ski industry. Whether it’s a comedic look into how to become one of the “ski industry darlings” or a wife dragging her husband out skiing as a form of couple’s therapy, these films showcase everyday extraordinary women in their element, pushing boundaries, achieving goals and facing fears.

Our aim is to create a platform that inspires stoke and creates a movement of women who are eager to explore and step out of their comfort zone – to hike that mountain, ski that line, take that road trip, and say yes to new adventures.

The Lady Alliance is a community of women whose mission is to build confidence and community through adventure. Already at 50,000 strong, The Lady Alliance is bridging the gap between mental wellness and adventure for ladies everywhere.

Founder Kieren Britton, who is based in Kimberley, felt there was a huge gap for women between outdoor activities and the confidence in ourselves to attempt the activity. After hearing that she was brave “for a girl” all too often, Britton wanted to create a place where every lady could learn and grow together, demolishing selfdoubt while building a community.

By encouraging ladies – no matter their age, size, skill, or fitness level – The Lady Alliance is inspiring women all over North America – and the world! – who may otherwise feel intimidated to try something new.

With online courses focusing on mental and emotional wellness, weekend retreats, conferences and local evening events, The Lady Alliance aims to provide a fun, affordable way to meet like-minded women, improve mental wellness and seek adventure.

All of our net profits made during this film tour goes to a cause that is near and dear to us: Power To Be. Power To Be began in 1998 with an idea: help people living with a disability or barrier access nature. The idea grew into a community, connecting participants to adventures and supporters to opportunities, collectively redefining our definition of ability.

Tickets for the Invermere show are available online at theladyalliance.com

…‘Taking yoga’ continued from page 12 If it went without saying in the old texts that yoga and nature were meant to be on the same mat, Ms. Forrest is making that connection very clear in her new text, where she blends yoga with eco-psychology.

As humans are immersed in nature, they are healthier physically, emotionally and mentally, she said, noting that around the world doctors are prescribing time outdoors to help their patients feel better.

“It’s a really important time for humans to really realize or remember how important nature is to our health, not just the basic survival stuff – like if nature dies, we die kind of thing – but in order for us to be really healthy humans we need contact and time with nature,” she claimed.

Her book is for those who are interested in “building a better relationship with nature and who are kind of the more contemplative type,” she said.

“It’s a really lovely series of activities and thoughtful discussions about how to deepen one’s relationship with nature specifically using yogic techniques like breathing and the postures and meditation and contemplation.”

Readers should be prepared to do the exercises outdoors, even during the winter months, because the peacefulness nature provides can outweigh having chilly toes.

“My meditation practice is all outside, even in the winter, and I find that it is more authentic and easy to be quiet and still when I’m supported by other things that are quiet and still.

“So actually meditating outside in the winter is really beautiful because there’s the white, there’s the sparkle, there’s the coolness, the quietness that happens in the valley that it’s so easy to bring that into a practice at that point because it’s all around.”

To find out more about her book, visit https://www. invermereyoga.com/ecoyogatherapy1.

NEW YEAR NEW LOCAL RATE WE VALUE YOUR PROPERTY AS MUCH AS YOU DO. If you’re among BC’s approximately 2 million property owners, you should receive your 2020 property assessment in the mail early in January. If you haven’t, call us toll-free at 1-866-valueBC.

Special Offer

Access and compare property assessment information using our free assessment search service at bcassessment.ca. The 2020 assessments are based on market value as of July 1, 2019.

Boardroom for up to 15 people

4 hours – $275 8 hours – $500

If you have questions or want more information, contact us at 1-866-valueBC or online at bcassessment.ca. The deadline to file an appeal for your assessment is January 31, 2020.

Includes tea, coffee and water.

Excluding taxes

Additional event spaces also available for up to 170, call for rates.

For more property information and assessment highlights, visit

bcassessment.ca We Value BC

Call our Events Coordinator 250-341-4006 or email salescoordinator@copperpointresort.com

Please recycle this newspaper

January 9, 2020

The Columbia Valley Pioneer • 15

HERE TO SERVE YOU BUSINESS OF THE WEEK

SERVICES

SERVICES

SERVICE EXCELLENCE

North American Warranty

IN THE COLUMBIA VALLEY

SINCE 1991 The Valley Fitness Centre, a not for profit business for over 30 years is a vibrant, busy, welcoming facility that our community enjoys every day.

Our memberships include a well-equipped weight room and over 35 various classes!

We pride ourselves in service and maintaining a sparkling clean facility for your enjoyment. Come in and check out our 6-month promotion today!

Visit www.valleyfitnesscentre.ca

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

Sales ~ Service ~ Installation

Judy: (250) 341-1903

valleysolutions@shaw.ca

House Checking and more!

CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

Bob: (250) 341-5014

PROVIDING SOLUTIONS FOR THE VACATION HOME OWNER SINCE 2006

UNIVERSAL DOORS & EXTERIORS Arnold Scheffer 250-342-6700

unidoorext@live.ca • unidoorext.ca

Industrial ~ Commercial ~ Residential

UPHOLSTERY

WINDOW COVERINGS SHOWROOM • • • •

Doors Windows Flooring Painting/Interior/ Exterior • Kitchen Renovations • Window Coverings Box 53, Brisco, B.C. V0A 1B0

250.439.8074 goldenupholstery1960@gmail.com

PLUMBING

(Servicing the Valley since 1999)

NEW SEWER CAMERA

Tire Sales and Installation

We give all students 15% off with valid student ID

COLUMBIA VALLEY JOIN YOUR CHAMBER AND REAP THE REWARDS! P. 250-342-2844 E. membership@cvchamber.com

All Makes and Models

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

• Septic Tank Pumping • Portable Toilet Rentals

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

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

KITCHEN CABINETS & COUNTER TOPS

492 Arrow Rd., Unit 1B, Invermere • EMAIL: fairmontridge@telus.net • 250-342-4663

• Air Conditioning/Heat Pumps • Fireplaces • Full Heating and Ventilation Systems

Scott Postlethwaite

Call for your FREE consultation and estimate

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

Free Estimates

invermereelectric@gmail.com

WETT Certified

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

INSURANCE

INSURANCE

Bruce Dehart 250.347.9803 or 250.342.5357

East Kootenay Plumbing Services & Renovations Available 24/7 Red Seal Journeyman Plumbers/Gasfitters (B)

eastkootenayplumbing@yahoo.com 250-272-3374

INSURANCE AGENCIES LTD.

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

www.kootenayinsurance.ca

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

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

www.columbiavalleypioneer.com Phone: 250-341-6299 • Fax: 1-855-377-0312 • Email: ads@columbiavalleypioneer.com

N E W S PA P E R

16 • The Columbia Valley Pioneer

January 9, 2020

Whiteway Report Submitted by Shannon McGinty, Lake Windermere and Whiteway Ambassador

While last weekend’s warm conditions left us with a wet way, this week’s snow and cooler temperatures are ideal for getting the Whiteway back up and running!

We should have a skating track cleared, and ski tracks set by the weekend - watch our website and Facebook page for more updates on current conditions.

We have two great events coming up in the next couple weeks.

Come join us for our first Annual Whiteway Winter Challenge on January 19th, and our Annual Nipika - Toby Creek Nordic Loppet on January 25/26.

You can participate in both events or join us as a volunteer. For more information contact us at info@tobycreeknordic. ca.

Happy skiing!

Giving and grinning Recycling Christmas TREE COLLECTION – Kinsmen Club of Windermere Valley recycled Christmas trees for donations.

Photo by Dauna Ditson.

LIBRARY DONATION – The Lake Windermere District Lions Club posed while donating $5,000 to the Radium Hot Springs Public Library’s Endowment Fund.

“Their contribution will help to ensure sustainability by providing ongoing support for the library and its literacy programs,” said Jacqueline Wagner, library director.

Submitted photo.

HERE TO SERVE YOU CONTRACTING

CONTRACTING

CONTRACTING

Dale Elliott Contracting • • • • •

Interior Finishing Kitchen and Vanity Cabinets Countertops Small Renovations Decks and Interior Railings

Specializing in all heating, electric, gas and wood.

• Trusses • Engineered Floors • Wall Panels

250-341-7098 Invermere, B.C.

Tel: 250.341.6075 Fax: 250.341.3427 Email: info@duskbuildingsystems.com www.duskbuildingsystems.com

LAMBERT-KIPP

We also offer roundthe-clock service calls.

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

Concrete Pump • Sand & Gravel Heavy Equipment Rentals • Crane Service

J. Douglas Kipp, B.Sc. (Pharm.)

Laura Kipp, Pharm D., Irena Shepard, B.Sc. (Pharm.)

Your Compounding Pharmacy

Proudly Serving the Valley for over 50 years

Open Monday - Saturday 9 a.m. - 6 p.m.

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

th

1301 - 7 Avenue, Invermere

250-342-6612 CARPET CLEANING

TILE AND GROUT CLEANING RR#4 2117–13 Ave. Invermere, BC V0A 1K4

A licensed, registered and bonded company

READY MIX CONCRETE

P H A R M A C Y LT D .

Business: 250-342-9692

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

CONCRETE

PHARMACY

Come in and browse our giftware

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

Cell: 250-342-1273 Fax: 250-342-9644

ptarmiganrugclean@gmail.com

Have an opinion?

Email your letter to the editor to info@columbiavalleypioneer.com

Your COLUMBIA VALLEY REAL ESTATE Professionals Local JanK limeK 250.342.1195 janklimek@shaw.ca JanKlimek.ca

Wende Brash Broker/Owner

RE/MAX Invermere Independently Owned and Operated 1022B - 7th Avenue, Box 459 Invermere B.C. V0A 1K0 E-mail: wendebrash@telus.net Fax: 250-342-9611

Office: 250-342-6505 • Cell: 250-342-1300

January 9, 2020

The Columbia Valley Pioneer • 17

P IONEER C LASSIFIEDS

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

ANNOUNCEMENT

CHEERS & JEERS

CHEERS & JEERS

CHEERS & JEERS

CHEERS & JEERS

CHEERS & JEERS

Alcoholics Anonymous. If alcohol is causing problems or conflict in your life, AA can help. All meetings are at 8 p.m. For more information, please call 250342-2424. Columbia United AA, Invermere: Saturday, Sunday, Tuesday, and Wednesday at the BC Service Building, South End – 624 4th St., Invermere. Radium Friendship Group: Friday at the Catholic Church, East Side of Main St. With the exception of Tuesday, all meetings are open.

Jeers to the people who badmouthed a school event on social media. Word gets out fast and you just lost a lot of business.

Big Cheers to Linda for organizing a fun Christmas party for the Residents and their families at Columbia House.

Great job!

Cheers to Tim Hortons and Sylvia Kelly for arranging hot chocolate to warm us during our bus ride around the Valley the week before Christmas to view the display of lights. Columbia Garden Village Residents.

Cheers to Dee Conklin for all the kind things you did for my husband and I up to and including the Christmas holidays. All the meals you delivered to our house, all the telephone calls and all the many other courtesies you extended to our family. You are a true friend indeed. How can we ever repay you.

Cheers to Carbon Engineering ltd.

Leading the commercialization of groundbreaking technology that removes CO2 directly from air and creates fuel. This should be celebrated!

Al-Anon. Are you concerned about or affected by someone else’s drinking? If so, please join us. Al-Anon meets EVERY Monday in Invermere at 7:15 p.m., at the Canadian Martyrs Catholic Church, 712 – 12th Ave (behind the Invermere hospital).

For information, please call 250342-8255.

Narcotics Anonymous. If Drugs or Alcohol are causing problems or conflict in your life. N.A. can help. All meetings are at 7 p.m. every Thursday every at 4878 Athalmer Rd.

IT’S BACK!

Dairyland milk is once again available at…

Cheers to Fritz for using his new toy and clearing ice on the lake for a rink and a path from Kinsmen beach to Windermere for all to enjoy.

Cheers to Sobeys for donating a meat platter and spinach dip platter to the Ambulance station. Much appreciated!

A massive CHEERS to the kind hearted employees that worked day and night to clear our roads during this massive snow storm!

You guys are beyond awesome!

Cheers to our amazing and steadfast musician volunteers that played at our annual Family Christmas Party last week. Also, a special Cheers to the businesses that contributed prizes. And Cheers to Santa, and his elves for attending our event!

Fun was had by all!

S OBITUARY S FULLER, JOE

Cheers to the Pharmasave pharmacist who voluntarily went above and beyond by delivering my prescription to Brisco on his way through. You’re awesome.

Cheers to the enlightened progressive school and teachers at WES for allowing us to expand our thinking beyond the status quo with an amazing thoughtprovoking Christmas concert performance December 18th.

My children are so very blessed to attend a school that focuses on their overall well-being and their future.

CHEERS to all the beautiful light displays in and around the Valley; the bus ride in the evenings the week before Christmas was wonderful.

Cheers to everyone who has disabled the lock-and-honk feature on their car key fob. How many honks does it take to lock a car? Zero!

Cheers to Dave Mathieson of Selkirk Repair for coming to our rescue during the Christmas holidays. You fixed our stove and our dryer. Great customer service.

Big Cheers to the men and women who keep our roads and highways clear throughout the winter. I drove to the coast the weekend before Christmas and was amazed at how well the highways were maintained after all that snow! Whether you work for government, a private contractor or on your own, a big Cheers for keeping our roads safe and enabling us to enjoy the winter wherever we go.

1926 – 2019 The family of Joseph H. (Joe) Fuller sadly announce his passing on Sunday, December 15, 2019.

Joe was born on February 28, 1926 and spent his life in the Invermere area. A more detailed account of his wonderful life - 93 years worth - along with a celebration of his life will be announced in the spring or early summer.

Joe is survived by his children Daryl (Dianne Gibson), Wayne (Conny Strüb), Audrey (Steve) Mantyka; Grandchildren Joshua and Logan Walker; Kaelan Fuller; Graham, Andrew and Michael Fuller; 13 great-grandchildren and many other family members and friends.

Joe was predeceased by his parents, Hugh and Margaret; brothers Art and Ted and wife Eileen (Hudson) Fuller.

In lieu of flowers, donations in Joe’s name can be made to the Royal Canadian Legion Branch 71, Kootenay Wildlife Heritage Fund, Windermere Historical Society or a charity of your choice.

ANNOUNCEMENT Mrs. Grace Willmott is pleased to announce the marriage of her daughter,

Lynda Marie Cadenhead to Mr. Frederick W. (Rick) Jarrett in a quiet family wedding on January 7th, 2020.

The couple requests any gifts be made to their charity, Angel Flight EK online at

AngelFlightEK.ca

Cheers to Scott Postlewaite and Dave at Invermere Electric for coming to our rescue over the Christmas holidays when our electric furnace quit. You returned our telephone calls, came to our house, ordered a new motor for our furnace and installed it within a day of receipt. Your Customer Service is First Class and you made two senior citizens warm and happy.

Rockstar Cheers shout out to our wonderful neighbor Don Stober of Columbia Valley H20 Water & Pump Services for going above and beyond to unfailingly plow the long driveway up to our house! You Rock!

Cheers to the gentleman at Valley Foods who paid for our groceries when we couldn’t find our gift card. Very much appreciated.

A very happy holiday Cheers to River Gems for their wonderful help in making a little girl’s Christmas gift dream for her mother come true, plus the added surprise was awesome!

Cheers to Nicolas K., our efficient and cheerful server at Helna’s Stube on New Year’s Eve. Best wishes for a great 2020.

A massive Cheers to the Village of Radium and the Radium Hot Springs Volunteer Fire Department for once again providing an outstanding family fun event and a fantastic fireworks display on New Year’s Eve! What community spirit!

We are so lucky to live in such a wonderful Village!

Weekly Featured Listing Re No du w ce d!

GREAT FAMILY HOME $485,000

$479,000!

824 Westridge Drive, Invermere MLS: 2441730 (Brokerage ~ Rockies West Realty)

BUYING OR SELLING CALL 250-341-1202

gerrytaft.ca Rockies West Realty Independently owned and operated

STORAGE NEWHOUSE STORAGE Various sizes available.

Now with climatecontrolled units.

Call 250-342-3637.

COMMERCIAL SPACE Beautiful 800 - 3,200 sq. ft. second floor office space in Radium Hot Springs.

1-403-559-9625.

864 sq. ft. Shop space in the Industrial Park. Electrical included, $700/mo. 250-3423637, newmulti@telus.net.

HOUSE FOR RENT Newly renovated, 2-bdrm home with large back yard and decks.

New bathroom, new kitchen/ appliances. N/S, N/P. Walking distance to downtown. Call/text 250-342-5685. $1,400/mo heat included. Available immediately.

18 • The Columbia Valley Pioneer

January 9, 2020

LOT/ACREAGE FOR SALE

FIREWOOD

ACREAGE FOR SALE

Support Rockies Hockey firewood. Contact email cvrockies.firewood@gmail.com or call 250-342-1624 for more info or to place an order.

4.7 acres. Has its own gravelled road access from Kootenay #3.

Road already constructed.

Drilled well, views, privacy. $219,000 + GST. Phone Elkhorn Ranch, 250-342-1268.

ELKHORN COUNTRY ESTATES Phases 1 and 2 sold out.

Selling Phase 3 now. 2.5 to 4.7 acre parcels. Starting at $159,000 + GST. No building time commitment.

Phone Elkhorn Ranch 250-342-1268 www.elkhornranches.com

HOUSE FOR SALE

SERVICES LEE’S SMALL ENGINE REPAIR SHOP Specializing in chainsaws, snow blowers, wood splitters and power augers for all your firewood and winter needs.

SAW CHAIN NOW AVAILABLE. Industrial #2 Road across from NAPA Hours: Tuesday-Friday 9 a.m. - 5 p.m.

Saturday 9 a.m. – 3 p.m.

250-341-2551 Offering Excellent Service & Fair Pricing!

WE ARE HIRING!

EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY

Chasse Holdings Ltd. is currently accepting applications for a Processor Operator minimum 1 year of experience and a Feller Buncher Operator minimum of 2 years experience, both immediate start. These positions are full-time permanent positions. Preference will be given to those with more experience. We are located in Windermere, BC. We offer a competitive wage, health benefit plan, and pension package.

If you have a great attitude and you are safety conscious and would like to join our team, please send your resume and drivers abstract information to marlene@chasseholdings.com.

We’re looking for an experienced Professional Biologist to support our growing organization in the conservation and management of natural resources. The position will involve supporting the Shuswap Band and the Secwepemc Nation in Columbia River Treaty negotiations through study initiation, technical support and project management/guidance.

The Biologist will also be responsible for assisting the Director of Territorial Stewardship with the implementation of natural resource management projects and initiatives by providing biological support, project management, administration, training and education to community members.

We offer a competitive salary and benefits package commensurate with experience and are committed to working with our employees to achieve their career goals within our organization. This position will provide exposure to large, multi-facet projects and initiatives which are generally long-term in nature and require both consistency and commitment. This is a unique opportunity for the ideal candidate with ability to steer career changing activities

We thank all applicants however only those that are selected for an interview will be contacted.

EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR Part-time, permanent www.valleyfoundation.ca Reporting to the Chair of the Board of Directors, the Executive Director (ED) will have managerial and operational responsibility for the Community Valley Community Foundation and the execution of its mission. The successful candidate will: • • •

BARRY BROWN-JOHN Managing Broker “Rocky Mountain Land Man”

250-342-5245 b.brownjohn@gmail.com

Spic N Span Cleaning Services Office cleaning.

Now taking new clients.

Please contact Amanda at 250-688-1259 for more information.

• •

Heaven’s Best Carpet and Upholstery Cleaning Environmentally friendly products. Dry in 1 hour!

Call 250-688-0213 or visit www.heavensbest.ca.

• • •

The ideal ED candidate will have proven management, finance, administration and communications experience, including the following qualifications: • •

•

BUSINESS FOR SALE Luminescence Salon located in downtown Invermere is for sale. This bright, cheerful and beautifully renovated salon is perfect for a stylist just starting out in the business or someone wishing to relocate their current salon or move to beautiful Invermere. For more information please contact 250341-5474.

MISC. FOR SALE Top Quality Hay Round bales.

Stored in shed. Phone Elkhorn Ranch 250-342-1268.

Callaway men’s right handed golf clubs. Very good condition, 11 piece set, bag included, 1 dozen Srixon balls included, asking $225. 250-347-7774.

FIREWOOD

Pike Contracting Excavating and Skid Steer services.

Call Jason 250-342-5277.

Post-secondary education or equivalent professional courses or experience in the charitable, not-for-profit sector or business administration preferred; Experience managing and executing the day-to-day financial and administrative matters of an organization Strong marketing and public relations experience; Exceptional written and oral communications skills; Previous experience with fundraising, gift management, granting, financial reporting for the charitable sector preferred; and Proficiency with technology and related software, including accounting, database, website maintenance, social media and communications systems.

Technical skills: •

B.B.’s Home & Lawn Care Services: Handyman Services, Renovations, Moving, Dump runs. House Checks/Cleaning.

Book now for snow removal.

250-688-2897.

Ensure continued growth of CVCF’s donations and major gifts, and consistent quality of administration, finance, communications; Seek out and act on leadership opportunities that fit the Foundation’s goal of being a proactive community leader; Deepen and refine all aspects of communications, from web presence to external relations; Provide on-going support to the board and committees; and Maintain and honour established connections with donors, the charitable community and CVCF’s strategic partners.

• • • • • •

Intermediate to advanced Microsoft Office skills including MS Word, Excel, Outlook and PowerPoint Website maintenance skills: basic graphics editing and WordPress Social media technology skills: Facebook, Instagram and/or other emerging and suitable applications Accounting/bookkeeping software skills: QuickBooks (intermediate or basic and willing to train) Adobe Acrobat Professional and Reader: basic skills Electronic images cataloguing and editing software: basic to intermediate File management and records software: DropBox

Interested in this opportunity? Please email a cover letter and resume to info@valleyfoundation.ca by 12 p.m., Friday, January 24, 2020.

Remuneration based on skills and experience.

Just a reminder… The classified deadline is 12 noon Friday.

SERVICES

Radium Husky

House Winter Special 3-piece fried chicken and side of wedges.

Additonal pieces Breast $3.09 • Thigh $2.99 • Wing $ 2.59 Dine in or take out.

Pine Firewood. Pine and Fir available. Call 250-342-6068.

$ 99

9

+ Tax

4918 Hwy 93, Radium Hot Springs, BC • Open 7 days a week, 7 am – 3 pm

Biologist Manager of Territorial Stewardship

RESPONSIBILITIES INCLUDE: • Participate in and prepare for relevant working groups and representative forums • Assist in the development of a 5yr Workplan for the re-introduction of anadromous stocks into the upper-Columbia River/Basin • Under the Salmon LoA; Initiate technical studies as defined by the Salmon LoA priorities • Assist in the development of the Knowledge Synthesis Report for the Columbia River Treaty.

• Responsible for implementing all phases of projects, from planning to completion; • Responsible for coordinating and managing project teams, resources and budgets; • Ensure high quality of project work and on-time and budget delivery of services; • Develop work plans, capacity funding proposals and conservation funding grants, • Conduct scientific research, assessments and studies, and report on findings, • Maintain good communication with clients, sub-consultants, contactors and stakeholders; • Assist in building a strong client network and organization reputation for quality services; • Organize and document critical information, developments and challenges for projects; • Provide timely reports to the Director on project budgets, milestones and deliverables; REQUIREMENTS • Knowledge of provincial and federal environmental processes, regulations and best management practices; • Knowledge of life history, biology and habitat requirements of anadromous and freshwater salmonids in BC; • Knowledge of fisheries stock assessment and population estimation methodology; • Knowledge of wildlife population assessment and estimation methodology; • Knowledge of life history, biology and habitat requirements of ungulate species in BC; • Knowledge of fish and wildlife habitat restoration approaches, requirements and methodology; • Knowledge of protected and endangered species populations, including conservation protection and rehabilitation; • Advanced understanding of scientific research approaches, resources and techniques; • Experience preparing B.C. regulatory permit applications (e.g. Section 11 Applications, Fish Collection Permits, Wildlife Permits…etc.)

• Experience preparing Environmental Management Plans for construction projects, • Experience as a QEP for environmental monitoring on construction projects; QUALIFICATIONS: • Demonstrated experience working with Indigenous Communities required; • Bachelor of Science Degree in Biology or related discipline required; • Registered Professional Biologist designation or equivalent required; • Minimum 5 years professional experience in biological sciences or related discipline; • Minimum of 2 years’ experience with project management and coordination; • Experience supervising environmental technicians in both office and field settings; • Experience with project management, budgeting, and related administrative duties; • Advanced computer skills in MS Office, knowledge of statistical software an asset; • Excellent oral and written communication skills including experience delivering presentations, as well as writing scientific reports and funding proposals; • Excellent interpersonal, problem solving and conflict resolution skills; • Excellent attention to detail, organizational and time management skills; • Ability to work independently as well as within a team setting; • Ability to respond effectively to changing operational needs; • Valid Class 5 BC driver’s license and reliable transportation; • Training certificates in related areas are considered assets (e.g. First Aid, Swiftwater Rescue, Marine Emergency Duties, Small Vessel Operator Proficiency, and Backpack Electro Fishing); • Full-time position, salary TBD • Must adhere to the Shuswap Indian Band Human Resources Policy and Procedure Manual (Approved April 4, 2018).

• Must work on-site at the Shuswap Indian Band Territorial Office.

To apply contact: Shuswap Indian Band, #3, 492 Arrow Road, Invermere BCV V0A 1K2 Fax: 250.341.3683 Email: ltegart@shuswapband.ca Deadline for applications: FRIDAY January 17, 2020 at 4 pm

January 9, 2020

The Columbia Valley Pioneer • 19

FAITH Which way do we go?

By Pastor Murray Wittke Valley Christian Assembly A skier lost in the Monashee Mountains was found New Year’s day. He’d wandered for two days through heavy snow, fog and treacherous terrain. His decision to follow an unfamiliar track almost cost him his life. But it’s not just in the backcountry you can get turned around. People get lost almost anywhere. It happens all the time. Most of us at some point have experienced that horrible feeling of realizing we’re lost and don’t know which way to go.

As another year begins, the daily news gives me that same feeling. Australia is on fire, the Arctic is melting, coral reefs are dying, plastic is everywhere, record numbers of wildlife face extinction, 37,000 people a day flee their homes because of conflict, and at any moment the

WINDERMERE VALLEY SHARED MINISTRY ANGLICAN-UNITED Christ Church Trinity (110-7th Avenue, Invermere) Every Sunday at 10:30 am All Saints (4829 Cordillera Avenue, Edgewater) 1st and 3rd Sundays of the month at 9 am, March to December only.

St. Peter’s (4703 Kootenay Street, Windermere) Seasonal only- details to follow 250-342-6644 • www.wvsm.ca

VALLEY CHRISTIAN ASSEMBLY Sunday 10 a.m.: Worship Services.

Pastor Murray Wittke 4814 Highway Drive, Windermere 250-342-9511 • www.valleychristianonline.com

ROMAN CATHOLIC CHURCH

BUILDINGS FOR SALE

SERVICES

INTEGRITY POST FRAME BUILDINGS since 2008. Built with concrete posts. Barns, shops, riding arenas, machine sheds and more. Adam.s@ integritybuilt.com. 1-250-3515374.

GET RESULTS!

Saturday, 4:30 p.m.: St. Anthony’s, Canal Flats.

Saturday, 5 p.m. and Sunday, 9 a.m.: Canadian Martyrs’ – Invermere Sunday, 11 a.m.: St. Joseph’s – Radium.

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

EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITIES SANDMAN INNS RURAL BC recruiting management couples, both full-time and part-time roles available. Ask us about our great employee perks and accommodation. Apply: innsco_ bc@Sandman.ca

LEGAL SERVICES CRIMINAL RECORD? Why suffer Employment/Licensing loss?

Travel/Business opportunities?

Be embarrassed? Think: Criminal Pardon. US Entry Waiver. Record Purge. File Destruction. Free Consultation 1-800-347-2540. accesslegalmjf.com.

SERVICES

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Reach almost 2 million people for only $395 a week for 25word text ad or $995 for small display ad. Choose your province or all across Canada. Best value.

Save over 85% compared to booking individually. www. bccommunitynews.com/ advertise or 1-866-669-9222.

STEEL BUILDINGS

STEEL BUILDING SALE “REALLY BIG SALE IS BACK - EXTRA WINTER DISCOUNT ON NOW!” 20X21 $5,929. 25X25 $6,498.

28X31 $7,995. 32X33 $9,994.

35X33 $12,224. One End Wall Included. Pioneer Steel 1-855-212-7036 www.pioneersteel.ca

ST. PETER’S LUTHERAN MISSION OF INVERMERE

Inventors!

Ideas wanted!

Lay Worship Services, Sundays at 1:30 p.m.

Christ Church Trinity, 110 - 7th Ave., Invermere (Small Chapel) Pastor Doug Lutz, 250-464-0100 Email: mtzionlc@hotmail.com

Call Davison today!

1.800.218.2909 or visit us at inventing.davison.com/BC

RADIUM CHRISTIAN FELLOWSHIP

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

Relief Society, 11:15 a.m.

President Rick Daniels • Columbia Valley Branch 5014 Fairway, Fairmont Hot Springs • 250-421-3756

The Pioneer can

take you r do llar With 6,400 copies far in circulation each week, th er your message is resonating with residents and visitors alike.

LET US HAMMER OUT THE DETAILS FOR ALL YOUR ADVERTISING NEEDS, CALL 250-341-6299

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

!

Wanted 2 F/T Restaurant Cooks, Rocky River Grill, 8888 Arrow Road, Invermere, B.C. Permanent, F/T shifts, overtime, weekends, days and evenings, $16/hour for 40 hours per week. Overtime after 40 hours. Minimum several years’ experience and completion of Secondary School. DUTIES: Prepare and cook full course meals, prepare and cook individual dishes and foods, ensure quality of food portions, work with minimal supervision, prepare dishes for customers with food allergies or intolerances. Inspect Kitchens and Food service areas. Please forward resume to Justin Atterbury by fax 250-342-8889 or email justatterbury@hotmail. com.

Sundays 10:30 a.m.

Worship Service & K.I.D.S. Church Sunday. January 12th, 7 p.m.

“SING and CELEBRATE” 326 10th Avenue, Invermere 250-342-9535 • www.lwac.ca

BCYCNA – CLASSIFIED ADS

HELP WANTED Invermere Petro-Can is currently accepting resumes for F/T and P/T employment. Wages starting at $15/hr. Apply in person to 185 Laurier Street, Invermere between 8 a.m. and 5 p.m.

shadow war between America and Iran could escalate into a major conflict. It appears we’re lost, just going in circles, while our world’s leaders stumble blindly along in the dark, unsure of which way to go.

Some feel we should keep following the path we’re on. They trust that advances in artificial intelligence, science and technology will eventually solve our world’s problems. Others believe we’re on the path to the end of human civilization and modern society. So who is right?

Which way do we go?

As a young hiker I was told that if I was ever lost I should “STOP” – a handy acronym for recalling the most sensible course of action. “S” for sit, “T” for think, “O” for observe and “P” for “plan.” Long ago the prophet Jeremiah had similar advice for ancient Israel. They’d wandered far from God and were in trouble. He said: “Stand at the crossroads and look; ask for the ancient paths, ask where the good way is, and walk in it, and you will find rest for your souls.”

As a new year begins perhaps you’re at a crossroads, wrestling with big questions, not sure which way to go. I encourage you to consider following the ancient path, the good way, the narrow road that leads to life. If you’re lost STOP, look up, and ask for directions.

LAKE WINDERMERE ALLIANCE CHURCH

Phone: (250) 341-6299 Fax: 1-855-377-0312 info@columbiavalleypioneer.com

N E W S PA P E R N E W S PA P E R

www.columbiavalleypioneer.com

20 • The Columbia Valley Pioneer

January 9, 2020

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Sports Loft and Bar Workshop Space Boat, RV & Toy Garage • Up to 1,680 Square Feet with Mezzanine/Loft • 100 Amp, 120/240V Panel • 12’&14’w x16’ h Rollup Doors • Heated and water serviced • Security Gate Access INVESTORS – LEASE HOLD OPPORTUNITIES!

OWN YOUR STORAGE BAYS OF

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1496 Hwy 93/95 Windermere, BC Please call for holiday hours.

BaysofWindermere.com • 250-688-0512

T

Kootenay duo opens up shop to promote solar energy

By Breanne Massey Special to the Pioneer A bright new duo has opened the doors to a new venture in the Columbia Valley.

Eden Yesh and Stu Bilodeau recently pooled their resources as both partners and owners of the Kootenay Solar Power company in the East Kootenay.

“I bring marketing, sales, research and admin to the company, and Stu is the brains behind the electrical, installation and balance of system components for a solar PV array,” Yesh told the Pioneer via e-mail. “We both have backgrounds in business so it’s a great partnership for our skill sets.”

Stu Bilodeau and Eden Yesh In layman’s terms, solar PV (aka solar photovoltaics) is a method of generating energy from renewable resources.

The Kootenay-grown business began operating in June of 2019.

“We officially started the company and tightened up our distributors and our business plan,” Yesh explained. “In October 2019, we launched our website and marketing to the public and have provided over 20 estimates to (clients) across the Kootenays.

We’re scheduling installations from March to October this season.”

After growing up in the Kootenays, the duo became inherently focused on staying green and making a difference in the community where they grew up fostering a passion for environmental stewardship.

“This is our home and we have deep roots and many connections across these communities. The solar PV market continues to grow and we’re hoping to be a top choice for Kootenay residents and businesses,” Yesh wrote.

But the benefits of having a sustainable home are something they’re committed to bringing people from all walks of life.

“Stu and I have been intrigued with the renewable energy sector for several years and have talked about starting a solar company. The cost of solar energy has dropped significantly in the past 10 years,” said Yesh.

“It’s now less expensive to produce your own electricity from solar than paying Step 2 rates with utilities companies. We realized there were not a lot of local solar businesses doing design, (installations), electrical and permitting all under one roof, yet the sector continues to grow. We’ve seen Calgary and Kelowna companies coming into the Kootenays to serve the growing market.”

Stu has his installer certification from the Canadian Solar Institute.

“Globally, we need to cut our greenhouse gas emissions in a big way and fast,” said Yesh. “Climate change is the pressing issue of our time. Solar PV electricity generation, paired with complementary products such as electric air source heat pumps, level two EV chargers and LED lighting enables people and businesses to take direct action to reduce their carbon footprint. The economics of solar make sense now too, costing the same, or less, to generate your own electricity than buying from the utility company.

“As electricity rates continue to climb, energy affordability is going to become an issue. When you install solar on your building, you’re leveling the cost of your solar for 30-plus years. There is a push to get off natural gas and fossil fuels and electricity (for) our transportation and heating and cooling of buildings. This is going to require an incredible amount of new electricity.”

In order to kick-off the process to work with Kootenay Solar Power on your next project, visit their website (below) and fill out the free estimate form available with a request for residential or commercial projects. From there, the duo will evaluate the provided information and outline their proposal for a client’s approval.

If a decision is made to proceed, an on-site assessment is booked to review technical details and amend the final proposal before it is approved.

“Once (it is) signed we will take a deposit from the client, apply for the net metering program, order equipment and schedule the install date,” he explained. “Once installed, we will train the client on the system components and software that come with it to monitor the energy production. A typical return on investment for a solar PV system is five-to-eight per cent. The payback period is 12 to 15 years, and it increases your house value up to four per cent. The financial benefits of going solar make sense and you get to reduce your carbon footprint too.”

For more information, visit: www.kootenaysolarpower.com.