Columbia Valley Pioneer, January 30, 2020

January 30, 2020 Vol. 17/Issue 5

The Columbia Valley Pioneer • 1 January 30, 2020

Your Weekly Source for News and Events

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2 • The Columbia Valley Pioneer

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Adam Daniels at @cleanlineautomotive uses an amazing point of sale system to walk clients through what service was completed, and when you want to come back. The newly adopted Columbia Valley Tech Strategy will help businesses and organizations utilize technology to make your organization efficient and resilient. Stay tuned for more tech strategy news!

Have you seen Columbia Valley Food and Farms’ new map?

The local Food Hub Advisory Committee is exploring the potential for a Food Hub (e.g. a facility to aggregate and distribute local food). Results of a recent survey of local food producers, processors and retailers will be presented at a public meeting at 4:30 p.m. on February 4 at the Columbia Valley Chamber of Commerce’s Lions Hall.

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January 30, 2020

The Columbia Valley Pioneer • 3

VALLEY NEWS Bags leaving trio of valley stores

By Dauna Ditson dauna@columbiavalleypioneer.com Three of the community’s biggest stores – Sobeys, Valley Foods and Home Hardware – have banded together to get rid of single-use plastic bags at their checkout counters.

The change will come into effect at all three shops on Friday, January 31.

Back in December, Invermere’s mayor, Al Miller, committed to consulting with local business owners about getting rid of checkout bags. Now he’s ditching plastic bags at his store, Home Hardware, and has partnered up with the Invermere grocery stores to do likewise.

When Miller approached Valley Foods, he said, “surprise, surprise, they informed me that they had already made the decision to get rid of them.”

Sobeys had already made that call too. Nationwide the chain is cutting back on plastic bags. Locally, owner Steve Ladas said the store will still provide plastic bags for meat and produce but that the single-use checkout bag will be a relic of the past. They will continue selling reusable bags and start selling paper bags and heavier 25-use plastic bags.

Valley Foods and Home Hardware have similar plans and will be offering paper bags in addition to their reusable bags.

“We don’t want to replace plastic with paper,” said Eric Lapointe, store manager for Valley Foods. “I want people to bring reusable bags.”

He said “grocery stores are probably the worst offenders (for single-use plastic bags),” adding that he’s enthusiastic about the change and about representing the first Associated Grocers store to get rid of checkout plastics.

When he talked with Joe’s No Frills, Miller was informed that the store will promote reusable bags and baskets but will continue selling plastic checkout bags. Even so, the shift means none of the “worst offenders” in the Invermere area will be giving bags away for free.

“Plastic has been too easy as far as I’m concerned,” said Ladas, who is looking forward to disincentivising waste.

Getting rid of the single-use checkout bags is “probably one of the biggest endeavours that I’ve taken on in the grocery business,” he said.

Lapointe said some of the challenges could be mitigated by having the three stores make the change collectively to ensure the switch will be more supported in the community and to help customers get used to bringing their reusable bags wherever they shop.

“We won’t see as many of those bags along the highway stuck in the fence and the trees,” Ladas said. “If I see it, I’ll pull over and just grab them.”

Miller agreed that seeing bags littering the ground is frustrating, especially when they come from his store.

“They show up like a sore thumb, those yellow Home Hardware bags,” he said.

All three feel that the change is a big deal for the community.

“You’re making a start. You’re being a leader by setting an example. That’s the best thing we can do as Canadians.

This is awesome,” said Lapointe.

Miller said that in his consultations he came across a few smaller stores that are also getting rid of plastic bags and that he intends to keep the conversations going.

“We’re a small community, and we all care about what happens in the future,” he said.

Steph Van de Kemp, a resident who organized a petition to ask Invermere council to ban single-use plastic bags, appreciates the switch the three retailers are making.

“The scale of plastic pollution is overwhelming, so I’m really excited to hear about these local businesses making a commitment to stop handing out plastic bags,” she said.

“It takes courage to be a leader and I’m grateful to the businesses that are stepping up to the plate.”

Even so, she still hopes council will ban plastic bags and set a mandatory fee for paper bags to encourage shoppers to carry reusable bags.

Australian company acquires Canal Flats business

By Dauna Ditson dauna@columbiavalleypioneer.com The co-founders of PodTech in Canal Flats will still be heavily involved in their data centre company (with Brian Fry as a strategic partner and Brian Fehr as a strategic shareholder), after they sold the works to Australia-based Iris Energy earlier this month for an undisclosed sum with hopes of taking the business global.

PodTech, Iris Energy and Columbia Lake Technology Centre (CLTC) – where PodTech is located – have another commonality besides technology: business-person Brian Fehr is a driving force behind all three ventures.

“We first came to PodTech as a customer, and were impressed by both the advanced data centre infrastructure and quality of the individuals,” Iris Energy’s executive director Will Roberts told the Pioneer by email. “PodTech had skills and capabilities which were exactly what we needed; our strengths in energy and finance balanced neatly with their strengths in construction, infrastructure and data centres.”

Canal Flats will be the company’s home base in Canada, Roberts said, adding that they will continue with research and development in partnership with CLTC. Why did the Australian company opt to keep PodTech going in Canal Flats with its population of 668 people?

“There were several appealing factors,” Roberts wrote. “The local community

has been nothing but fantastic in providing a welcoming space for an international company.”

He noted the support of the local council, CLTC’s aspirations and the “availability of clean, sustainable power and high-speed fibre connectivity.”

Roberts said his next steps are to develop an additional 24MW of data-centre infrastructure and then to consider “other sites in both B.C. and North America generally, aided by the experience of Brian Fehr and his commitment to sustainable development in local communities.”

Fry, who cofounded PodTech and launched the business in the spring of 2018, said that in order to grow “we came to the conclusion that the best thing we could do was to find a partner . . . In this world you need the capability of big finance, like Iris has.”

At the time of the sale, he said PodTech had five or six employees but that he expects to see new hires and a double shift now that Iris Energy is driving the business.

“I’m just beyond excited about how good this is as an example of what you can do in a small rural industrial town that had no future when its sawmill shut down and here we are today talking about a very significant team of players put together,” he said. “People will notice that Pod Tech will start growing much faster now.”

PodTech weathered some difficulties in the year and a half since it started up Continued on page 5 . . .

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4 • The Columbia Valley Pioneer

January 30, 2020

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This past week, January 20 through January 26, the Columbia Valley RCMP responded to 50 calls for service. The following is a summary of some of the files our officers responded to.

• On Monday, January 20 Columbia Valley RCMP received a report of snowmobiles travelling at a high rate of speed on Brisco Road in Brisco. An officer attended the area and conducted patrols but was not able to locate the offending snowmobilers.

• On Wednesday, January 22 at about 5:45 p.m., police received a report of a male causing a disturbance at a residence on Kootenay Road 3 in Windermere. Officers attended and located an intoxicated male who had been damaging property inside the residence. The male was arrested for mischief and held in cells until sober to prevent further damage to the residence.

• On Wednesday, January 22 officers were conducting patrols on Toby Creek Road near Panorama when they came across traffic stopped for a downed tree blocking the roadway. The highways contractor quickly attended and removed the tree. No vehicles were damaged and no injuries reported.

• On Friday, January 24 at about 11:10 a.m. a motorist reported a loaded logging truck was travelling northbound on Highway 93/95 near Canal Flats and

The Village of Radium Hot Springs is welcoming applications for municipal grants in aid to community groups for endeavors, events or programs for the 2020 budget year. Applicants should pick up a guide to assist them in preparing a complete application. The deadline for applications will be February 14th, 2020. Guides may be obtained from the Village office, 4836 Radium Blvd. during office hours.

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the trailer was swaying into the oncoming lane. Officers located the logging truck near Windermere and conducted a traffic stop.

Upon inspection, a flat tire was discovered on the trailer. The truck was taken out of service until the tire could be repaired. A Commercial Vehicle Safety Enforcement officer attended and took over the inspection.

• On Saturday, January 25 at 9:45 a.m.

Columbia Valley RCMP received a report of a single vehicle rollover on Toby Creek Road near Panorama. Police attended and discovered a silver Dodge Ram pickup down an embankment. A witness reported the driver attempted to pass two vehicles and lost control after rounding a corner. The driver and lone occupant was not injured. The driver was issued a violation ticket for failing to keep right.

• On the evening of Saturday, January 25 Columbia Valley RCMP conducted a check stop on Athalmer Road in Invermere. Officers checked approximately 75 vehicles. Two drivers were issued violation tickets for no insurance.

• On Sunday, January 26 at 1:40 a.m. an officer was conducting patrols in Invermere and conducted a traffic stop with a black Ford Fusion. The driver submitted to a roadside breath demand and blew two “fails.” As a result, the driver was issued a 90-day immediate roadside driving prohibition and his vehicle was impounded for 30 days.

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The Columbia Valley RCMP is requesting the public’s assistance in locating a missing Invermere resident.

On January 26 Columbia Valley RCMP received a missing person report for Belinda Dawn Eugene who was last seen earlier that morning in the Radium Hot Springs area.

There is nothing to indicate foul play at this time, and police have reason to believe that Belinda may have been hitchhiking, destined for the Kamloops area.

“Although it is believed that Belinda is reportedly dressed appropriately for the current weather conditions, police are very concerned for her health and well-being, should she experience a prolonged exposure,” said RCMP

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Southeast District spokesperson Jesse O’Donaghey. “We are interested in locating Belinda to check her well-being and ask motorists travelling throughout the southern interior to watch for her.”

Description of Belinda Eugene: indigenous female, 32 years, 5 ft 7 in (170 cm), 170 lbs (77 kg), black hair, brown eyes.

She was last seen wearing a black jacket, a pair of purple snow pants, a long grey fuzzy toque and eyeglasses. She was last seen carrying a small black suitcase and a blue backpack.

Anybody with information on the whereabouts of Belinda Eugene is urged to contact their local police, or remain anonymous by calling Crime Stoppers at 1-800222-8477.

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January 30, 2020

The Columbia Valley Pioneer • 5

Climate change coordinator and more pickleball courts?

By Steve Hubrecht steve@columbiavalleypioneer.com During Invermere council’s most recent meeting, council members gave second and third reading to an amended five-year financial plan, approved two zoning changes, were asked if they wanted to buy the Christmas display in Pothole Park, and discussed the fairness of late penalties for residents who mistakenly pay their utility bills instead of their property taxes.

Climate change coordinator, pickleball courts?

Council gave second and third reading to an amended 2020-2024 Financial Plan. Key amendments added during the January 14 meeting include that staff get quotes for expanding the paved courts in Mt. Nelson Athletic Park to make them suitable for pickleball (the surging popularity of the relatively new pursuit has made it the fastest growing sport in Canada and America over the past few years), and that the committee of the whole consider having the district hire a climate change coordinator. Other amendments included that 12A Street between River Gems and Gerry’s Gelato be paved and a trial three-way stop installed, and that $40,000 be allocated to replacing the 4th Avenue bridge over the rail tracks.

Upzoning for Panache, downzoning for Waterside At the Tuesday, January 14 meeting, councillors voted in favour of changing zoning for the Panache Interiors building from ‘gateway commercial’ zoning to ‘downtown commercial’ zoning. The building’s new owners, Dr. Paul and Catherine Lubitz, sought the zoning change since the downtown commercial zoning allows for a medical business and for residential suites upstairs, both of which the Lubitzes plan to establish in the building. The second zoning change approved by council was to revert the zoning for the former Waterside property (also known, variously, as the Octagon, Stoneset, or Vista del Lago property) back to what it was more than 15 years ago, before the enormous project (construction of which was ultimately never even started, much less completed) was proposed.

Christmas spirit Columbia Valley resident George Gray came as a delegation of one to check in with council about his Christmas lights and props display, which for years he had put up in Fairmont Hot Springs but this year, for the first time, he . . . ‘Australian’ from page 3 with a fire shutting business down for three days and requiring some rearranging and crowding on site.

Fry said the company had also signed “a very substantial contract” with a Chinese customer that was never fulfilled. He suspects the problem came down to political tensions between Canada and China.

set up in Invermere’s Pothole Park.

“Gray’s my name for those that don’t know me. Not black, not white, but Gray with an ‘a’,” he said by way of introduction, managing to simultaneously showcase his keen-witted, lively demeanour and point out that his name had been misspelled (as Grey) on the agenda. He noted that he’s had plenty of positive feedback on the display and opined that probably more people saw it this year than ever before, thanks to the high visibility of the Pothole Park location. He added a rainy December meant water getting into some plug-ins and, consequently, a few blown fuses.

“For the same sponsorship ($1,000), I’ll do it again next year, if I’m still here,” joked the elderly Gray, adding that if council preferred it could simply “buy the whole display, lock, stock and barrel” for $4,000.

Property tax penalty Council devoted some time to discussing a letter from Invermere resident Robert Clare, asking that council reverse the late fee penalty that had been applied to his property tax payment. Clare, using online banking, had inadvertently paid his utilities account instead of his property taxes, and by the time the money was sorted and transferred he had accrued more than $150 in late fees.

District financial officer Karen Cote noted to council that, although Clare said in his letter this was his first time paying property tax online, he had in fact paid his property taxes online in 2017 and that he has been paying his utilities bill online since 2016. Cote added there are unfortunately many other residents who make similar mistakes, despite the district including inserts explaining the process of paying online in mail-outs along with bill and property tax accounts, and that district staff have, as legally required, consistently treated everybody the same and applied the penalty.

Invermere councillor Gerry Taft expressed some sympathy for Clare, pointing out that he’s likely a senior citizen (he has owned his Invermere property for 39 years), and that the online world that many middle-aged or younger people take for granted can be confusing to the elderly.

Fellow councillor Kayja Becker, however, pointed out that Clare did have the option of coming in to pay in person.

“It’s unfortunate, but unfortunately I’m also a stickler for rules,” she said, adding that she herself had some confusion about paying her own property taxes this year so she came in to the district office and did it in person. Council members let the matter drop, keeping the late fee in place for Clare.

“It slowed PodTech down,” he said, adding that with any venture it’s important to “always just find a way to keep moving forward.”

Fry said the company continues to look for investors.

Lorri Fehr, chief executive officer for CLTC, said having Iris Energy on board “puts us on a global stage.”

Doug Clovechok MLA Columbia River – Revelstoke 1-844-432-2300 Doug.Clovechok.MLA@leg.bc.ca

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Bereavement Support Group The Hospice Society of the Columbia Valley is offering a FREE Bereavement Support Group starting Tuesday, February 4th, from 6:30 to 8:30 pm located at the Hospice Society office, #103-926-7 Avenue, Invermere, at Frater Landing square, next to the jewellery store.

The support group will follow a 12-week curriculum designed by Dr. Alan Wolfelt, founder of the Center for Loss and Life Transition.

Please contact Richard at 250-341-7152 for registration or call the Hospice Office at 778-526-5143. Limited space.

Deadline for enrollment is January 31st.

If you or someone you know is having a difficult time with the loss of a loved one, please give the Hospice a call.

Symptoms of Grief include: Shock, numbness, denial, fear, panic, sadness and depression. If you are experiencing any of these, we can help.

www.hospicesocietycv.com

CALLING ALL EMPLOYERS, JOB SEEKERS AND ENTREPRENEURS!

20 FEB 2020

Columbia Valley JOB & ENTREPRENEUR FAIR COLUMBIA VALLEY CENTRE, 646 4TH ST. INVERMERE 1 - 5 PM • Register by February 14th at www.cvchamber.ca/jobfair

6 • The Columbia Valley Pioneer

January 30, 2020

PERSPECTIVE Bagging the bags

Historical Lens Last of the Crook Cabins

By Dauna Ditson dauna@columbiavalleypioneer.com

This was the last cabin to be built by Charles Crook and his son Ray.

With three Invermere-area stores getting rid of single-use plastic bags at their checkout counters, the community is about to become a little greener and a little cleaner.

Sobeys, Valley Foods and Home Hardware are hoping to encourage other businesses – both in town and across the country – to follow their example. While Sobeys is making the switch as a chain, both Valley Foods and Home Hardware are leaders among their affiliated shops.

Despite an opinion poll in the last municipal election showing that residents had a strong preference to ban plastic bags, Mayor Al Miller wanted businesses to change because it was the right thing to do and not because council made them. With two or three more local shops poised to make the change too, his diplomatic tactic appears to be working.

And it’s about time we stopped using so many single-use bags.

When I first came to town, I didn’t have any writing prospects here so I took a job at Fields, bagging and double bagging customers’ purchases. I tried to use as few bags as possible. Sometimes, with small items, I wouldn’t offer a bag and would just leave the merchandise on the counter while smiling and hoping customers would take their things without asking for a bag.

Instead of asking if they wanted a bag, I would ask customers whose goods could have been carried in a hand if they needed a bag. My subtle trick didn’t appear to have much, if any, effect.

I think it’s because, as Sobeys owner Steve Ladas said, plastic bags are just too easy. Plastic bags are too easy to give out, too easy to accept and too easy to throw away when we’re done with them.

Congratulations to Sobeys, Home Hardware and Valley Foods on no longer doing the easy thing and instead leading the way on reducing single-use plastics in our community. Thanks for helping Invermere residents live up to their best intentions as shown in the opinion poll.

With all three retailers switching at the same time – and more on the way – hopefully it won’t be long before residents get used to bringing reusable bags wherever we go.

Remember, if you forget your bags the first few times or get frustrated by the change, that these stores are doing exactly what we collectively requested. Isn’t it nice of them to give us what we wanted?

It was to be moved several times and the first move is shown here, the location being a bit north of Crook’s Meadow.

Parks Canada eventually gave it to the Windermere District Historical Society and it became their first museum.

It can be seen as part of the museum group of buildings in Invermere.

The person in this picture is Annie Blanchard Crook, widow of Charles Crook, c. 1958.

Photo courtesy of Ray Crook

Migrant opposed to immigration Dear Editor: As a local citizen of Invermere for a number of years, I have come to love this wholesome, peaceful valley. Retirement has afforded me the luxury of time to study events on a broader range and how they can affect us locally by connecting with other citizens across the country. Recently, there are a couple of things come to attention that could greatly impact us here in the valley.

They are the immigration projects funded by the federal government, which is developing more of them rapidly.

One is called the Entrepreneur Immigration: Regional Pilot Project under the guise of Welcome B.C. which spells out 45 rural communities that encourage immigration to – including Invermere, Radium, Canal Flats, Akisqnuk First Nation, Kimberley and Shuswap Indian Band. Apparently us locals, B.C.-ers, Canadians can’t develop or maintain resources of this valley without help from immigrants who have no longstanding heartfelt connection to this land. I have asked several of-

ficials here how many immigrants would be sponsored.

Is it a handful or thousands? No idea. Few were aware of the immigration programs. Where would they live?

A huge problem already exists for affordable accommodations for people trying to work and live here. What about our environment and climate change? Increasing population rapidly in this sensitive wetlands area would surely be destructive to wildlife habitat as demand for services increases for more peoples’ needs.

Mass migration has overwhelmed other rural areas with no time for examination of effects on current services. Imagine Invermere having, for example, an extra 1,000 people and entrepreneurs selecting Invermere (people in this program can choose where they can come to, apparently) to take advantage of this program without local residents having awareness of this amount coming? And why wouldn’t that many choose the Columbia Valley – paradise eh?

Continued 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

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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 30, 2020

The Columbia Valley Pioneer • 7

LETTERS

Find out more about what your local Arts Council is up to.

Board Member positions available.

Annual General Meeting

Jumbo gratitude

Wednesday, February 25th, 6:30 p.m.

Pynelogs Cultural Centre

Dear Editor: A poem of gratitude based tightly on Some Other Just Ones: A footnote to Borges,

by Steven Heighton. The poem is about the many people who worked to keep Jumbo Wild, and I know many will find themselves in it. It is my thank you letter.

The student who writes her term paper in defence of wilderness, though she has never spent a night in the forest.

Citizens who rise early in the morning to declare their truth in blue, hoping it might change the future.

Skiers who leap from the forest at the precise moment of opportunity with difficult questions on their lips.

Mothers and fathers who make safe space for their children to fight for their own values.

Graphic designers who ply their trade to ensure that a message that would otherwise be lost in the noise reaches its intended audience with gusto.

Elders who open their homes to host difficult meetings that last too long into the night.

Recluses who show up to the loudest of protests because their dedication trumps their desire for privacy.

The infirm elder who, thinking himself near the end, confesses his ancient spirituality so that the next generation may fight to save it.

The son who takes up the call and wakes his Nation.

The city dweller who shows up at a moment of despair and says “Hi, how can I help?”, and proceeds to really help, for months.

The reporter, who, despite being assaulted from all sides, persists in searching out the truth without cynicism.

The quiet friend who brings a board game to the camp to make sure that some fun is had despite the anxiety.

The activist who convincingly makes the call that now is the time to rise to action.

The retired judge who patiently offers measured legal advice to the activist.

The politician unafraid to change their mind and then act upon their learning.

The young child who believes in their parents’ dreams, even though the future is an abstraction.

The family members who tolerate the emotional drama and distraction with compassion.

The filmmakers who stalk their subjects and tell their stories.

The oilman who acknowledges, admires, and then supports the power of the individual to make change.

The photographer who captures the zeitgeist of the movement.

Those who are not afraid to raise their voices.

Those who are afraid but do it anyway.

Who keep showing up, time and time again.

Who donate at the AGM, with the sweet hope that it will make a difference.

Who keep the books and file the reports.

Who bake cookies to feed the passionate.

These people, and so many others like them, without knowing it, are saving the world.

LAST CALL FOR NOMINATIONS 2020 Electoral Area VOLUNTEERS OF THE YEAR Nomination Deadline is FRIDAY, JANUARY 31 Nominees must be a resident of an Electoral Area and make voluntary contributions to the spirit, culture or people of the community. Nomination forms are now available at our Cranbrook & Columbia Valley RDEK offices and on: engage.rdek.bc.ca/volunteer

1-888-478-7335 | www.rdek.bc.ca

INFORMATION SESSION

FEBRUARY

6

6:00 pm - 7:00 pm INVERMERE CAMPUS

Meredith Hamstead, Invermere … ‘Migrant’ continued from page 6 The lesson here is that residents living here need a way to make an informed decision about our community, not have this foisted upon us by federal government. And, it isn’t fair to immigrants or residents after they are here, to say “too many.” CHOICE ID (Citizens Hosting Open Individual Conversation Engaging In Democracy) is looking for a place to have this ongoing conversation. Here’s hoping that our councils and elected officials will facilitate this

process. It’s no wonder an independent B.C. movement is coming of age again.

This time it is through Wexit British Columbia.

Iris Meehan, Invermere

HEALTH CARE ASSISTANT The Health Care Assistant program is one example

Editor’s note: Like Meehan, all except one of the Pioneer’s staff have chosen to move to the valley from elsewhere. The Pioneer supports every individual’s freedom to live here and contribute to our community.

of how we respond to the employment needs of the East Kootenay and its residents. Contact us to learn

APPLY NOW FOR

SPRING 2020 INVERMERE CAMPUS

more about all of our program options.

FOR MORE INFORMATION:

cotr.ca/Invermere

Our weekly What’s Happening page features all the local events around the Valley.

Email your event listing to info@columbiavalleypioneer.com

8 • The Columbia Valley Pioneer

January 30, 2020

Reflections on the power of youth Fresh old ideas

By Arnold Malone Pioneer Columnist I believe in the goodness of youth.

In 1959 I entered my freshmen year at Montana State University. I joined the university’s travelling debate squad. That squad travelled 40,000 miles in completive debate. Our coach insisted on quality research and a hunt for truth. Good oratory was never enough.

In my first professional job I was a provincial supervisor for the Alberta 4-H clubs movement. One of my duties was to manage the provincial 4-H Public Speaking program. I wrote the manual and 45 years later the manual still contains some of my writing. That experience allowed me to realize the skill and leadership of so many young people.

What matter in speech are both delivery and the validity. Given my age I have witnessed the dangers of powerful oratory without a regard for ethics. I was, and continue to be, deeply disturbed by the capacity of Adolf Hitler to mesmerise a crowd with oratory. Excellent speech without ethics is a dangerous practice.

Later, along with four others, we formed the Alberta High School Debate and Speech Association. We held province-wide tournaments and hosted a TV program called DEBATE that aired on CFCN Calgary and CFRN Edmonton. I was the TV Debate Judge. Those

young students made us very proud.

While doing a masters degree in communication we visited a day-care centre. We were to observe children and how they communicated and found out how well a very young mind could think.

The instructor told us that the boy in the yellow shirt often answered questions with an understanding beyond his age. The instructor then read the story, “The Magic Mill.” It was a special mill where you spoke a wish into the mill, turned a crank, and your wish came true. Then the instructor asked the children for their wishes. Many answered, a ball, a bicycle, a Lego set, and the boy in the yellow shirt answered, “Another magic mill.” Why settle for one wish when you could crank that handle on demand?

“The world is full of great accomplishments by young people: Louis Braille invented the Braille system at age 15; Malala Yousafzai won the Noble Peace Prize at age 17. . . Here in Canada David Shepherd and Travis Price, while in Grade 12, created Pink Shirt Day to advocate against school bullying.”

The skill of the young comes without boundaries.

No country should appreciate that more than Canada.

We are not only a young country by formation; Canada has also been advanced by young people.

Sir John A. MacDonald, Canada’s first Prime Minister, was just 16 years of age when he was articling in

law. William Van Horn was only 22 years of age when he was reflecting on plans for a cross-continental railroad. E.B. Eddie – a name you might not know – was 20 years old when he was considered a lumber baron in the late 19th century. Your grandparents will know of E.B. Eddie because his name was on matchboxes when homes were heated with wood and coal.

Our local hero David Thompson was only two when his father died. He left Wales and his mother when he was fourteen to work in the wilderness of Canada. He never saw his mother again. He became one of North America’s greatest explorers. He was an extraordinary mapmaker. He sketched maps that are still accurate today for navigating the North Saskatchewan River. Before he was 20 he was in charge of a Hudson Bay post.

He did so much to secure the west for Canada.

The world is full of great accomplishments by young people: Louis Braille invented the Braille system at age 15; Malala Yousafzai won the Noble Peace Prize at age 17; and Mark Zuckerberg founded Facebook at age 19. Here in Canada, David Shepherd and Travis Price, while in grade 12, created PINK SHIRT DAY to advocate against school bullying.

Our youth have been and will always be powerful contributors to the benefit of others.

Arnold Malone served as MP for Alberta’s Battle River and Crowfoot ridings from 1974 through 1993. He re- Pink Shirt Day. Unsplash photo by Asaf R tired to Invermere in 2007.

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Shane McKay cell / 250-341-1176

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January Thursday,30, October November 2020 26,2,2017 2017

Page The Columbia !PUBNAME! Valley Pioneer ••12 9

WHAT’S HAP HAPPENING ENING IN THE COLUMBIA COL OLUMBIA VALLEY ALLEY

MUSIC • VISUAL ARTS • DINING • BAR SCENE • ENTERTAINMENT • PERFORMANCE ARTS FREIGHT FAMILY

PACK PUP Bei took Holly out for a skate on the Whiteway. Holly appeared very pleased with the arrangement.

Photo by Dauna Ditson

PAGE 10 FILM NIGHT WHITEWAY UPDATE: “This warm weather is making it feel rather ‘spring like’ out there – but the Whiteway is holding on!

Conditions on Lake Windermere are excellent for skating. We will continue to maintain the skiing and walking lanes so long as we continue to have snow,” said Shannon McGinty, Lake Windermere Whiteway Ambassador. “Ever wonder where each activity should take place? Working from the inside outward, skating happens on the bare ice surface, walking on the thin layer of snow cleared over the ice, classic skiing in the two deep grooves, and lastly skate skiing on the wide groomed path.

If you are unsure, our Whiteway Ambassador is always happy to help.

Happy trails!”

XXXX XXXX

PAGE 15

What’s Happening Your weekly guide to what’s happening around the Columbia Valley PAGE 11

Love It Live Series Thur Feb 27 – Shakura S’Aida Live on stage at the Columbia Centre Tickets: columbiavalleyarts.com PYNELOGS CULTURAL CENTRE, ART GALLERY & CAFE ALLIUM HOURS: CALL FOR MORE INFO AT 250.342.4423

10 • The Columbia Valley Pioneer

January 30, 2020

NOTICE OF APPLICATION COLUMBIA RIDGE WATERWORKS LTD. Notice of Application to the Comptroller of Water Rights Under the Water Utility Act and The Utilities Commission Act Notice is hereby given by Columbia Ridge Waterworks Ltd. that an application has been made to the Comptroller of Water Rights for a Certificate of Public Convenience and Necessity for the proposed construction and operation of a waterworks distribution system to serve residents in the area of Lot 1, District Lot 139, Kootenay District Plan NEP70311 Any person wishing further information in connection with this application should apply directly to Columbia Ridge Waterworks Ltd. 4606 Columbia View Road, Fairmont Hot Springs, B.C. V0B 1L2 Any objections to this application are to be forwarded to Chris McMillan, Secretary to the Deputy Comptroller of Water Rights, Water Utility Act, PO Box 9340 Stn Prov Govt, Victoria BC V8W 9M1, or by email: chris.mcmillan@gov.bc.ca or by fax (250) 953-5124 to be received in this office on or before: March 2nd, 2020 Columbia Ridge Waterworks Ltd.

Helping

career

your business

Building their

Receive a wage subsidy to hire a summer student.

Summer Works applications available on February 13, 2020. ourtrust.org/summerworks

There’s a reason they’re called “CLASSY”. Pioneer Classifieds…

N E W S PA P E R

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

Under New Ownership

Chabot freight business changes hands but stays in the family

By Breanne Massey Special to the Pioneer A general freight carrier that transports cargo from Calgary to the Columbia Valley has recently embarked on its newest chapter.

Mitch and Brienne Chabot recently purchased the nine-year-old Columbia Valley Freight business from their relatives, Mark and Marlene Chabot.

“I hadn’t worked since having children and now both of our kids are in school, so we thought it would be a good opportunity to have our own business,” Brienne said. “Mitch has a background in business so it was a really good opportunity for him to network in the community… we also wanted to connect with the valley more.”

While Mitch is originally from the valley, the couple had worked and lived in Alberta for roughly 17 years.

Brienne grew up in Strathmore, Alberta and worked in social work in Calgary before starting a family.

Now, the Chabot family is busy carving out a new path that is driven by their entrepreneurial spirit in both of their homes in Alberta and British Columbia.

“We have a house here as well as a house in Alberta, so our kids still go to school in Alberta and we spend as much time as possible out (in the valley),” she said, noting their plans remain flexible to accommodate the entire brood’s needs going forward as the business grows.

Columbia Valley Freight specializes in both residential and commercial services to help aid residents from the community with heavy lifting, transportation costs and moving in or out of the area.

“We have equipment that would be able to get their appliances or furniture in or out of their houses, as well as

Photo submitted

extra men to help lift items for residential moves if someone isn’t able to lift,” said Brienne. “For commercial, our trucks are dock heights so we can unload / load at bigger locations too.”

There are three full-time drivers to lend a helping hand to the Chabot couple, but the requests received from their clients will help fuel the size of the crew on each outing.

“We’re not just a trucking company,” she said, noting that she and Mitch both pitch in as needed.

“We want to be friendly and personable with whoever we work with.”

In addition to growing the business, the couple has been working hard to expand their service offering throughout the East Kootenay.

“We actually just added a new route from the Columbia Valley to Cranbrook because we wanted to grow it and start serving another area in the business,” said Brienne.

For more information, visit: https://www.columbiavalleyfreight.com.

Minor hockey minute Submitted by Windermere Valley Minor Hockey This weekend the Senior Girls Hockey Team hosted their 2020 home tournament. Idaho, Kalispell, Calgary Red, Calgary White, Okotoks, Canmore and our team were in two divisions of the tournament with each team playing four games. The local girls played hard and lost two very close games. Unfortunately, the WV girls did not make the finals, but they had two fantastic wins beating Okotoks 4-1 and Idaho 7-0. The tournament final was between Kalispell and Okotoks with Okotoks winning 4-2. The girls host the Strathmore girls team in Invermere this next weekend. Come on down and cheer your ladies on Saturday at 11:30 a.m. and Sunday at 9:30 a.m..

The Peewee A team entered a Calgary Knights

• 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

Open daily – 11 am - 2 am

New owners of Columbia Valley Freight.

• 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.

Tier 2 Tournament this past weekend. The team lost to Chestermere 6-3, beat Trails West 8-6, and lost to the Knights 6-1 in the round robin. They then played the Knights again for third place and beat them 7-3, getting some revenge for losing to them in the round robin. The team played hard all weekend against tough competition. Players of the game were Spencer Goldsmith, Ethan Spencer, Caden Williams and Cimone Zimmer.

The Midgets beat Creston 5-3 on Saturday afternoon. We got out to a 5-1 lead but with 90 per cent of the boys fighting colds, they slowed down in the third and allowed Creston to try to mount a comeback. Nolan Douglas led the way with two goals, on his birthday, with Brendan Krugar, Matt Cable and Continued on page 12 . . .

SATURDAY IS RIB NIGHT! Baby Back Ribs w/ baked beans, roasted veggies and potatoes

1/2 Rack - $10 Full Rack - $18 Red Stripe Bottles $4 Tiger Shark Pints $5.25

January 30, 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 30

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

• 7 p.m.: Columbia Valley Rockies VS Golden Rockets Eddie Mountain Arena.

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

• DJ at Copper City Saloon.

Sunday, February 2 • 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, February 3 • 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.

• 10 - 12 p.m.: Baby Goose at the Invermere Library for caregivers and babies 0-24 mths. Brought to you by CBAL. • 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 p.m.: Lake Windermere Lions Club meet the 1st and 3rd Monday of each month at the Lions Hall.

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

Tuesday, February 4 • 9:30 - 10:30 a.m.: Momfit and Totfit at Columbia Valley Centre. Bring water and indoor shoes for your littles. Running shoes, yoga mat and water required for Mom.

• 10 a.m.: Yoga with Roberta at Edgewater Community Hall $2 drop in fee. Limited number of mats available. If you have one, please bring it.

Sponsored by ERS and CBT (January 28 - April 7).

• 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.

• 1:30 p.m.: Games Afternoon at Invermere Seniors Hall.

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

• 6:30 p.m.: Second Winds Community band rehearsal. Open for all wind instrument musicians. Canadian Martyrs Church, Invermere.

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

Wednesday, February 5 • 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. • 1:30 - 3:30 p.m.: Happy Hands Knitting and Crocheting group meeting every Wednesday at Columbia Garden Village.

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

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

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

Thursday, February 6 • 10:30 a.m: Family Story Time at the Invermere Library with stories, songs and a craft!

• 10:30 – 12 p.m.: Granny Goose - CBAL. Every Thursday, at the Radium Hot Springs Public Library. 4863 Stanley St, Radium BC.

Friday, February 7 • 2 - 3 p.m.: Invermere Library’s Winter Reading Club. FREE, Drop-in.

• 4 - 9 p.m.: Night Skiing & Starlight Challenge every Friday in February. Night skiing from 4 to 9 p.m.. Starlight Challenge from 7 to 9 p.m..

• 7 p.m.: Fresh Fridays YOUTH Open Mic Night at Pynelogs. Hosted

by Oso Simple. Venue: Pynelogs at Kinsmen Beach.

• 7 p.m.: Drumming with Patrick at Edgewater Community Hall. Bring your own drum or use one of Patrick’s. $2 drop in. This program will continue each Friday in February.

Tuesday, February 11 • 7 p.m.: Cinefest Film Series at Pynelogs – The Last Black Man in San Francisco. Venue: Pynelogs at Kinsmen Beach. Doors open at 6:30 p.m..

Thursday, February 13 • 7 p.m.: Smarty Pants Concert. Seniors’Hall Tickets $10. Available at Trading Post.

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Saturday, February 1

WRITING ROMANCE WORKSHOP The Invermere Pickleball Club is meeting at the Columbia Lake Recreation Centre on Friday, January 31 at 9:30 a.m., Saturday, February 1 at 1 p.m. and Sunday, February 2 at 10:30 a.m..

e Co lumbia Va

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

• 12 p.m.: Soup Day in Edgewater at the Community Hall. Choice of two homemade soups, dessert table, and coffee, $8. Everyone welcome.

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

• 2 - 3 p.m.: Invermere Library’s Winter Reading Club. This week is all about The Owl Diaries! FREE, Drop-in. If you’ve read the book, you’re the right age for the program!

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

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

• 7 p.m.: BINGO at Edgewater Community Hall. Call/text 250-3477757 for more information.

• 7 - 10 p.m.: Fresh Fridays Open Mic at Pynelogs. Showcasing young talent from the valley. All ages, licensed bar. First Friday of every month October through June.

• DJ at Copper City Saloon.

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

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Friday, January 31

PERSONAL REAL ESTATE CORPORATION

Ser

• 9 - 10 a.m.: Totfit at Columbia Valley Centre. Bring water and indoor shoes for your littles.

• 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!

• 10:30 - 12 p.m.: Granny Goose - CBAL. Every Thursday, at the Radium Hot Springs Public Library. 4863 Stanley St, Radium BC. • 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.

• 6-8 p.m.: Columbia Valley Youth Network at the Canal Flats Civic Centre. 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.

with local author

Roxy Boroughs Saturday, February 8th at 2 p.m. FREE, all welcome!

Learn the basics of the genre and perhaps write your own Valentine’s Day tale!

invermere.bc.libraries.coop

Doug Clovechok, MLA Wants to hear from you Thursday, February 6th, 2020 11:30 am to 3 pm To ensure you are given time with Doug, please RSVP by February 5th. Call Rachel toll-free at: 1-844-432-2300 Columbia Valley Chamber of Commerce (Boardroom) 651 Hwy 93/95, Invermere

Have an opinion?

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

Don’t miss: Blitzen Coast at the T-Bar Blitzen Coast will be rocking the T-Bar in Panorama on Saturday, February 1 at 9 p.m.. Enjoy great music, great drinks and great vibes all night long. Blitzen Coast are Columbia Valley locals Patrick Carrick, Tim Macintosh and Jason Stovell. The three piece band playfully surf the sound waves to bring a unique and original tone of psyche-tronic rock.

12 • The Columbia Valley Pioneer

Did you triumph over adversity?

January 30, 2020

Fairmont Hot Springs pools reopen Submitted by Fairmont Hot Springs Resort We are pleased to announce that our natural mineral hot springs public pools have re-opened.

Following a temporary closure, we have re-opened our pools to the public as of January 24. The Provincial Interior Health Authority has approved all changes that

Tell us your story to get up to $5,000 to pursue your dreams.

Apply to the Neil Muth Memorial Scholarship

by April 6, 2020. ourtrust.org/scholarship Neil Muth enjoyed skiing at the Basin’s many ski hills.

COME TOGETHER AT COPPER POINT RESORT

we instituted as additional safety measures for our guests.

The health and safety of our guests is and has always been our primary concern and we are delighted to have our visitors from near and far enjoy Canada’s largest natural mineral hot springs again.

We apologize for any inconvenience the temporary closure caused and are happy to welcome back our guests.

Radium Hot Springs pools remain closed Submitted by Parks Canada Visitor safety is of the utmost importance to Parks Canada. The Radium Hot Springs facility will remain closed to the public until measures can be put in place to ensure the safety of visitors and Parks Canada team members.

Parks Canada continues to undertake a full examination of the situation and to identify potential solutions.

This is still expected to be completed during the four to six-week timeline.

Once an estimated date of reopening is confirmed, Parks Canada will communicate this information to the

community of Radium Hot Springs and visitors.

Parks Canada continues to work with partners, the Village of Radium Hot Springs, and the community to keep the public informed.

For more information on other family friendly activities available to visitors staying in the Village of Radium Hot Springs, please visit the Kootenay National Park website (www.pc.gc.ca/en/pn-np/bc/kootenay), or the Tourism Radium website (www.radiumhotsprings.com), or stop in to the Radium Visitor Centre where Tourism Radium team members are happy to help plan a fun trip full of activities.

Loving her Cerebral Palsy

By Kate Gibbs Special to the Pioneer

Equipped with boardroom seating, a full galley style kitchen, a patio & BBQ, a pool table, an 80” TV, a comfortable living room area and two bathrooms our Jade Boardroom is PERFECT for any small gathering or meeting; baby shower, wedding shower, corporate meetings or even just a gathering with friends.

Accepting, and loving Cerebral Palsy (CP), was not something I remember working hard on throughout my childhood. Honestly, when I was little, I hated it.

Then, as I grew, and with the help of my family, teachers, and aides, I just started realizing how many things CP affects in my life, like the way I walk, the relationships I have with my family and friends, the things I get to experience, and how I see the world. As I have gotten older, there have been many times where I have looked back on my life, and I have gotten almost nervous, thinking about how different it would be had I not had CP. I feel so many things would change, and not necessarily for the better. Even if you see me try to

Up to 30 for a reception and 15 for a boardroom

4 hours – $275 8 hours – $500 Includes tea, coffee and water.

Excluding taxes

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

Call our Events Coordinator 250-341-4006 or email salescoordinator@copperpointresort.com . . . ‘Minor’ from page 10

Please recycle this newspaper

Nick Irons adding singles.

Parker Nichol in net has really found his groove the last couple of months and is providing us an opportunity to win every game.

The Atom Rep team also played in a Calgary Knights Tier 2 Tournament in Canal Flats on the weekend.

In the round robin portion of the event the lo-

improve my walking, or become more independent, please know that you could not pay me enough money to find a 100 percent cure for my personal CP. I love my life journey, and I can’t wait to see where it takes me, WITH CP! Being able to fully accept my diverse ability can help me accept how people react to it. After many years of getting upset when people “babied” me, talked over me, or did things for me without asking first, I started realizing that reacting that way was not going to serve me, or the people around me. I started to give them grace, and it worked! I’ve started to realize how much these people do care about me. To be perfectly honest with you, sometimes, even now, as an adult, I even take advantage of the attention.

Continued on page 13 …

cal team won all three games, beating the Knights 6-0 (with Memphis Martin and Tobin Donahue each scoring a hat trick), Airdrie 2-1 (Memphis, Jake Gramlich scoring) and Bow Valley 4-2 (Memphis, Jake, Tobin, and Cooper Cote scoring).

The final was a close, hard-fought game, with the locals losing 4-2. Ryker Chasse scored a short-handed goal and assisted on Gage Nyuli’s goal. Each line passed, using all members of the line, and forechecked every shift.

January 30, 2020

The Columbia Valley Pioneer • 13

Italian pizza in 90 seconds

Accepting her diverse ability

By Dauna Ditson dauna@columbiavalleypioneer.com Vincent Stufano, Panorama Mountain Resort’s new executive chef, is bringing the flavours and freshness of Italy to the resort’s new restaurant Alto Kitchen and Bar. Stufano, who is from Montreal but whose father is from the south of Italy, said he grew up accustomed to dishes with “strong, beautiful flavours” that were “always very simple, never fussy.”

In his family pasta was such a treat that his grandmother would give him much-anticipated Christmas gifts: bags of dried pasta she had made herself.

The meals of his childhood also often included produce so fresh it came from his garden.

“The influence of Italian food is very much a part of my life,” he said. “I love the simplicity, its intensity and taste.”

Under his direction, the restaurant offers 16 varieties of pizzas, and serves up robust seasonally-appropriate offerings for breakfast, lunch and dinner.

“We’re really trying to stay within the tradition of the Neapolitan style pizza,” he said.

All the dough is handmade daily and hand stretched.

The next key ingredients are Roma tomatoes, fresh basil and cheese. Customers can stop there or keep adding on, with offerings ranging “from a simple margarita to things a little more exotic with prosciutto and smoked salmon.”

The restaurant’s pizza oven is so hot that the pizzas are ready around ninety seconds after they’re popped in.

“It’s fast. It’s a very thin crust and the toppings are really lovely. We make everything ourselves,” he said. “It’s nice because you can sit there and see them made.”

… Continued from page 12

Vincent Stufano, Panorama Mountain Resort’s executive chef.

Photo by Claude Benoit

3RD ANNUAL

“The Art of Coffee”

I take it all in, the hugs, the praise, the help, and the pampering (SOMETIMES!), all while trying to present the mature 25-year-old woman I am.

I know how important relationships are and that they take time. Sometimes, diverse abilities make them take even more time, and I am okay with that. I can honestly say I do not know how I would view diverse ability, had I not been born with one, so I can understand how people with no experience with diverse ability would feel. I have biases about people, so why wouldn’t people have biases about me? I appreciate every single person who has been kind to me throughout my life, no matter what their reasons are, or how they initially came across, and I look forward to watching my relationships with them grow.

Accepting myself as a person with a diverse ability and accepting how others react to it, go hand in hand. I am 100 per cent comfortable with my CP, so I am not offended by the way that people respond to it, as long as it comes from a place of empathy or love, and just not having any idea of what having a diverse ability is like. I am looking forward to making relationships with everyone, and showing them just what I am capable of along the way.

PRICE REDUCED

Invermere Coffee Fest Art Competition REGISTER AT www.invermerecoffeefest.com

This competition is free to enter. Artists are encouraged to submit an original and signed piece of artwork that represents the theme of coffee. The work submitted can be any form of art with no restriction on media used (painting, sculpture, photography, mixed media, etc).

Coffee Fest Expo attendees will have the chance to vote for their favorite piece of coffee art. The winner of “the Art of Coffee” will receive a $50 gift certificate to Kicking Horse Coffee in Invermere.

All contestants will be notified by email and the winning entry will be posted on the Invermere BC Events Facebook Page.

Each artist must submit a small description of the art piece with the media used. Each piece will be displayed at Coffee Fest and the piece will be returned to the artists following the event. Artwork is encouraged to be submitted in a frame.

January 8th, 2020: Registration opens for art submissions.

February 28th, 2020: Until 4 pm: Final deadline for artwork submissions.

March 7th, 2020: Artwork is displayed at the Invermere Coffee & Tea Fest Expo.

March 8th, 2020: Winner is contacted and announced on Invermere BC Facebook Events page!

Please drop off artwork to Cortney Pitts at the Columbia Valley Centre or at the District of Invermere Municipal Office between 8:30am-4:30pm Monday- Friday: 914 8 Ave, Invermere, BC V0A 1K0 from January 8th – February 28th, 2020.

Contact the District of Invermere Event Coordinator Cortney Pitts for all Coffee Fest questions! events@invermere.net or 250-342-9281 ext. 1234.

$448,000

702 13th Avenue, Invermere, B.C. www.realtor.ca – MLS# X4667641 Large 6 bedroom home with 2 bedroom MIL suite on main level, private corner lot. 24.6 Kw solar system worth 55K included.

All art must be submitted with the following information included:

Name: __________________________________________________________ Email: ____________________________ Telephone: ____________________ About you: ______________________________________________________ Description of Art Piece and Media Used:__________________________

Realtors welcome, commission offered.

Contact Colin at 250 342 5212 or calkick@gmail.com

listedbyseller.ca

14 • The Columbia Valley Pioneer

January 30, 2020

HERE TO SERVE YOU CARPET CLEANING

CONCRETE

READY MIX CONCRETE Concrete Pump • Sand & Gravel Heavy Equipment Rentals • Crane Service Proudly Serving the Valley for over 50 years

TILE AND GROUT CLEANING Business: 250-342-9692

RR#4 2117–13 Ave. Invermere, BC V0A 1K4

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

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

ptarmiganrugclean@gmail.com

INSURANCE

CONTRACTING

INSURANCE

Dale Elliott Contracting INSURANCE AGENCIES LTD.

• • • • •

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

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

250-341-7098 Invermere, B.C.

www.kootenayinsurance.ca

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

SERVICES

• Trusses • Engineered Floors • Wall Panels Tel: 250.341.6075 Fax: 250.341.3427 Email: info@duskbuildingsystems.com www.duskbuildingsystems.com

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

Specializing in all heating, electric, gas and wood.

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

A licensed, registered and bonded company

We also offer roundthe-clock service calls.

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

PHARMACY

(Servicing the Valley since 1999)

NEW SEWER CAMERA

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

SERVICES

• 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

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

East Kootenay Electrical Services Licensed Contractor Cell: 250.341.1342 Fax: 250.342.8733 E-mail: ekelectric@telus.net

ELECTRICAL CONTRACTING

Box 2206 Invermere, B.C. V0A 1K0

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

Free Estimates

invermereelectric@gmail.com

RESIDENTIAL • COMMERCIAL • INDUSTRIAL 1710 10th Avenue – Invermere, B.C. V0A 1K0

LAMBERT-KIPP P H A R M A C Y LT D .

Come in and browse our giftware

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

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

Your Compounding Pharmacy Open Monday - Saturday 9 a.m. - 6 p.m. th

1301 - 7 Avenue, Invermere

250-342-6612

Providing Certified Electrical Services Dean Georgeson Master Electrician FSR-Class A

Serving the Columbia Valley

250-342-5516

KOOTENAY COUNTRY ENERGY & ELECTRIC LTD. dean@solarcountry.ca • solarcountry.ca

SHUTTER BUGS WELCOME We love a good photo submission. If you have a snapshot to share, email dauna@columbiavalleypioneer.com

20

Years of Experience

January 30, 2020

The Columbia Valley Pioneer • 15

Invermere gets “full-blown” film festival and is not the full auditorium, thus allowing for true cinema-quality picture and sound.

Our goal was to create a festival weekend that was both affordable and had a little of something for everyone in the selection of movies. The festival passes are $25 for all seven films. The cost for a single screening is $10.

The festival is a not-for-profit corporation based in B.C.. All proceeds go to two wonderful charities: the Mountain of Hope Society and the Columbia Valley Food Bank.

Tickets can be purchased online at www.invermerefilm.com or at the Crazy Soles store in Invermere.

Submitted by Bill Johnston, Invermere Film Festival Based on the sold-out success of the ‘Mountainfilm Invermere Film Nights’ the past two winters, organizers decided to go the next step and create a full-blown film festival (albeit a small one to start). The team felt that this was a much better event model for the valley that could grow to whatever size the market dictates.

This year Invermere Film Festival will run over three days (from February 7 to 9) in the Columbia Valley Centre theatre. The theatre setup only has the bleacher seats,

Guests to the film festival will be treated to adventure scenes like this one.

Photo submitted

HERE TO SERVE YOU SERVICES

SERVICES

WINDOW COVERINGS SHOWROOM • • • •

Doors Windows Flooring Painting/Interior/ Exterior • Kitchen Renovations • Window Coverings

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

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

KITCHEN CABINETS & COUNTER TOPS

Call for your FREE consultation and estimate

WETT Certified

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

SERVICE EXCELLENCE

North American Warranty

IN THE COLUMBIA VALLEY

UNIVERSAL DOORS & EXTERIORS

SINCE 1991

All Makes and Models

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

Arnold Scheffer 250-342-6700

unidoorext@live.ca • unidoorext.ca

Industrial ~ Commercial ~ Residential

Tire Sales and Installation

We give all students 15% off with valid student ID

141 Industrial Rd. 2 • 250-342-9424 • Open Monday - Saturday, 8:30 am - 5:30 pm Your Weekly Source for News and Events

Judy: (250) 341-1903

valleysolutions@shaw.ca

House Checking and more!

Bob: (250) 341-5014

N E W S PA P E R

Amanda Murray

PROVIDING SOLUTIONS FOR THE VACATION HOME OWNER SINCE 2006

Your Local

Sales Representative

COLUMBIA VALLEY REAL ESTATE

Wende Brash

Advertise Here!

Broker/Owner N E W S PA P E R

8, 1008 8th Ave. Invermere, B.C. Ph: (250) 341-6299 Fax: 1-855-377-0312

www.columbiavalleypioneer.com • info@columbiavalleypioneer.com

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

#8, 1008 - 8th Avenue PO Box 868, Invermere, B.C. V0A 1K0 Ph: 250-341-6299 ext: 101 www.columbiavalleypioneer.com amanda@columbiavalleypioneer.com

Professionals JanK limeK 250.342.1195 janklimek@shaw.ca JanKlimek.ca

16 • The Columbia Valley Pioneer

January 30, 2020

P IONEER C LASSIFIEDS S OBITUARY S Kloos, Stefan “Steve” Erwin October 20, 1929 ~ January 23, 2020 It is with great sadness and sense of loss that the family of Stefan Kloos announce his passing on January 23, 2020. Stefan was 90 years of age.

Stefan “Steve” was born in Transylvania, Romania and at age 15, with his family, fled to Austria during the second world war. He was raised in Wels, Austria, and earned an Agricultural degree in Vienna where, in the mid 1950s he met the love of his life, Maria.

They loved to dance in the Viennese ball rooms, but it was the allure of adventure and opportunity in far away places that fired his passion. He travelled to Canada as part of his agricultural degree practicum and landed in Brisco, B.C. Through words in letters he described this wild, newfound nirvana and asked Maria to take a leap of faith and join him to create a new life. She arrived in Calgary, Alberta in October 1957 with one large suitcase and eager anticipation. They married that October and started their partnership in a one room cabin in Brisco. It had electricity, but no running water or inside “facilities”. With limited proficiency in the English language, everyday was a new adventure. It was a far-flung change from Viennese ball rooms, but love knows no boundaries. Steve worked long days in the logging industry, they hunted, built their own first home, had three children within five years, had flourishing gardens and affirmed that Canada was the land of opportunity that would be forever their home.

At age 35, Steve went to trade school and received his automotive mechanic ticket after which they went on to purchase Lake Auto Service. They owned and operated it as a successful family business for more than 40 years.

During those years the family skied at Panorama and hiked almost every mountain there was in the Columbia Valley and beyond. Maria and Steve were very active in the hiking club with ample adventures and stories that involved many local families.

Mount Nelson was the most noteworthy of those adventures and Steve, coaxing many friends and family, had climbed it 14 times, the last time at age 72. In 1986, with his two sons, 5’9” Steve carried a 6’ cross to the top of the Mount Nelson which still stands signalling a landmark to climbers that they’ve made it to its peak.

They enjoyed skiing with their children and grandchildren until age 75 and, in later years, gardening was their passion. Maria and Steve were known for their commitment to early morning walks and were still seen on their route these past few years.

Steve will be lovingly remembered for his work ethic, commitment to his family, community and passion for leaving both better than he found it.

Steve is survived by the love of his life, Maria his wife of 63 years, his daughter Marion (Marcel) LaBrie, their family Justin, Erin, Raedyn LaBrie and Tyler, Deanna, Calum LaBrie, his son Harald (Samantha) Kloos and their family Sarah and Leona Kloos, and Barb, Nicole and Blair Kloos. He was predeceased by his son Erwin Kloos.

At Steve’s request there will be no funeral service or celebration of life. His final wish for all would be to take a walk, hike a mountain, care for this country but mostly love your family.

In lieu of flowers donations can be made to the Canadian Cancer Society https://hsf.donorportal.ca, a charity of one’s choice or Summit Trail Makers Society. summittrailmakers@ gmail.com Arrangements entrusted to McPherson Funeral Services.

Condolences for the family can be offered at: www.mcphersonfh.com

Ruault, Ernest William (Willy)

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

CHEERS & JEERS

CHEERS & JEERS

Cheers to the best dog groomer in the province. Stephanie Fitch!

You are so gentle and kind with my little dog. You are amazing!

Keep up the great work.

Cheers: to the unknown gentleman who surprised “7” ladies at the Chinese Restaurant by generously paying for their meal.

IT’S BACK!

Dairyland milk is once again available at…

June 30, 1939 – January 21, 2020 After his long battle with cancer, it is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Willy.

He leaves behind his wife, Doreen; and children, Karen, Greg, Sue, Deb and all of their families; grandchildren, great-grandchildren, nieces and nephews. All his sisters, brothers and families.

There will be a tea at a later date.

Coy, Filmer Rupert January 21, 1922 – January 18, 2020 Fil (Bud) Coy was born in Invermere, B.C. on January 21, 1922 and passed away peacefully at the age of 97 on Saturday, January 18, 2020.

Fil was predeceased by his wife of 70 years Nona. Fil will be lovingly remembered by his four sons Jack (Darlene), Jim (Sandi), Bill (Yvonne) and Bob (Dixie). He will be greatly missed by his eight grandchildren: Beth (Greg), David (Colleen), Nicole (Ron), Michael (Jenn), Stacey (Shane), Brad (Devon), Lindsay and Allison (Nathan) and his 18 great-grandchildren and two great great-grandchildren.

He was known as Fil to all and Bud to some. Every picture tells a story and this picture of Fil tells it all. As a teenager he had a summer job working on the Marples farm and always knew that was what he wanted to do. He served in the Canadian Air Force during World War Two. After the war he returned home and decided to not follow in his father’s footsteps as Dr. Coy. He and his wife Nona purchased the land south of Dutch Creek. In the early years he farmed and worked as a carpenter. He and Nona built Dutch Creek Ranch and then Coy’s Par 3.

He always said that he didn’t see farming as work. He loved it and enjoyed being on the farm every day. At the age of 91 he was still driving a tractor on the farm he so loved. It has been said that to be happy you only need three things – something to do, someone to love and something to look forward to. Fil always had those three things in his almost 98 years. He was a gift to the world and the legacy he left us is priceless.

Fil will be missed by many and never forgotten by anyone who ever met him. We loved him and he loved us all even more.

We would like to thank the staff of Columbia House for their kind and compassionate care of Fil for the last four years. Fil appreciated all that you did for him.

There will be no memorial service at Fil’s request. In lieu of other tributes, gifts to the charity of your choice, in Fil’s memory, are sincerely appreciated.

Cheers to Corey Olsen for your commitment and dedication to Minor Hockey. Your passion for the game is evident. Being a referee is a thankless job, yet you handle it in stride. Keep up the good work!

Cheers to birthday gals, Cathy and Judy from Fairmont, for asking friends to bring food bank items to the party instead of gifts and cards. We donated quite a few pounds of food and some cash to this worthy cause.

And Cheers to the Happy Hour gang at Fairmont for the great contributions and celebrations!

If you want to sell your home, it should be here!

Call Gerry *not intended to solicit those already working with an agent.

BUYING OR SELLING CALL 250-341-1202

gerrytaft.ca

Cheers to Dr. Mannheimer for being so efficient and friendly.

Regardless of how busy you are, you always take the time to give a warm hello to your present and past patients. We are very lucky to have you here in the valley.

Cheers to Viibrant Earth Cafe in Canal Flats for the excellent food and service.

Cheers to Sobeys for the most beautiful, freshest and reasonably priced flowers in the valley!

Cheers to another great Fishing Derby put on by the Kinsman Club. We had a great time. We will be back next year!

Cheers to James for the supply of cat food. My little mogwai is eternally grateful.

Rockies West Realty Independently owned and operated

ANNOUNCEMENT 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. Canal Flats Thursdays at 8853 Granger Rd. Village Office lower level, North end. Call Terri at 250-688-6050 or Grant at 250-342-1029 for more info.

With the exception of Tuesday, all meetings are open.

January 30, 2020

ANNOUNCEMENT 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.

The Columbia Valley Pioneer • 17

COMMERCIAL SPACE Industrial Commercial Lease (Golden B.C.) Available April/May 2020 Two Commercial Shops available for lease.

2,400 sq. ft. 16 x 16 Bay Door and 20 ft. roof, high enough for trucks and forklifts to pass under, heated, includes office space and bathroom.

For further information Please contact: Gur Manhas 1-780-977-8997 manhasgur@gmail.com

LEGAL NOTICE In accordance with the Community Charter, Section 94, and Village of Canal Flats Roads and Traffic Bylaw No. 159, 2014 Section 3(n), notice is hereby given that the following impounded vehicles will be sold at public auction on February 6, 2020 10 am at the Columbia Discovery Centre, 8866 Grainger Rd. A red Chevrolet SUV VIN# 3GNDA23P565531478 owing $375.00 as February 6, 2020. A white Dodge 4x4 Pickup VIN# IBHF16Y3R5638751 owing $375.00 as February 6, 2020.

All items are sold on an “as is, where is” basis with no warranty given or implied. Sale is subject to cancellation or adjournment without notice. For more information, please contact Adrian Bergles at 250-349-5462 or cao@canalflats.ca.

STORAGE NEWHOUSE STORAGE Various sizes available.

Now with climatecontrolled units.

Call 250-342-3637.

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

SUITE FOR RENT Windermere, bright, warm, 2-bdrm lower unit in quiet 4-plex with beautiful views, a large yard area, separate parking and entrances. No Pets, $775./mo. + electricity + D.D. Available immediately to mature, responsible tenants.

References required. Call/text: 587-224-3132.

Suite for Rent Fairmont 1-bdrm walkout, furnished, vacant, $750/mo all in. Singles only, N/S, N/P. 250-342-1629.

For Rent: Spacious bright 2-bdrm suite in quiet area of Black Forest, Invermere. Full bath, large living area, kitchen and shared deck. Ideal for couple or 2 singles. All utilities included N/S, N/P, no parties. References Please. $1300/mo available March 1st. 250-270-9080.

CONDO FOR RENT

BUSINESS FOR SALE

Akiskinook Resort: 1-bdrm fully furnished condo, Larger end unit, new renos and upgrades, indoor pool, hot tub. $875/mo includes cable/Wi-Fi. Call or text 403-281-3991.

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.

LOT/ACREAGE FOR SALE ACREAGE FOR SALE 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

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

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

THANK YOU

Radium Husky

3-piece fried chicken and side of wedges.

Dine in or take out.

Top Quality Hay Round bales.

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

FIREWOOD

PART-TIME TEMPORARY FACILITATOR 2 hours/week on Tuesday afternoons. Offering basic iPad and iPhone support by appointment.

✓ Basic computer/Apple device knowledge required ✓ Patience and ability to break down a topic into simple steps ✓ Strong record keeping skills ✓ Must enjoy the company of seniors Position to start ASAP. Application Deadline is January 31st. To apply contact Sandy Kalesnikoff at 250-409-4251 or skalesnikoff@cbal.org

Pine Firewood. Pine available.

Call 250-342-6068.

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

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!

Iris Energy seeks a qualified Purchasing Agent for the PodTech DataCenters Inc. Located in Canal Flats with planned expansion across North America, this data infrastructure company offers an excellent opportunity to collaborate with a great leadership team in a forwardthinking business. The successful applicant will be responsible for all purchasing required for the Canal Flats operation and beyond, creating budgets, researching best pricing and following through on purchasing on time and within budget.

The ideal candidate will: • be a motivated self starter; • be a relationship builder, both on the team and with vendors; • be organized and able to use a variety of computer applications; • have a solid understanding of purchasing and successful experience in the role; • have excellent communication skills, both written and oral; and • Bring positive energy to a rapidly growing team and business.

Experience in electrical purchasing will be a major asset in this role. Please send resumes along with three current references to: info@cltc.tech This position is full-time, permanent and on location.

Salary commensurate with experience and training.

Flip over to page 18 to see more services and help wanted advertisements.

HELP WANTED

House Winter Special

Additonal pieces Breast $3.09 • Thigh $2.99 • Wing $ 2.59

MISC. FOR SALE

HELP WANTED

$ 99

9

+ Tax

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

18 • The Columbia Valley Pioneer

SERVICES

January 30, 2020

HELP WANTED Invermere

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.

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

250-688-2897.

Pike Contracting Excavating and Skid Steer services.

Call Jason 250-342-5277.

HELP WANTED

The Eva Joseph Learning and Cultural Society is seeking

RECEPTIONIST

Early Childhood Educators

H&R Block Invermere is currently seeking a full time receptionist. Proficient in Microsoft Word and Excel.

Tax experience an asset.

Eva Joseph Learning and Cultural Society and the Little Badger Early Learning Programs is looking to fill a couple positions for Early Childhood Educator with Infant Toddler and Early Childhood Educator experience.

Little Badgers Early Learning Program is an industry leader in early childhood education with a focus on nature and the outdoors. Our team members are exposed to the Ktunaxa culture and language. We offer an excellent benefit and pension program.

Key responsibilities: • Provide quality childcare as well as plan and carry out developmentally and age appropriate educational activities to engage children 1-5 years old.

• Help children complete daily tasks and routine to gain independence.

• Be an active member of our cohesive, positive, flexible team, which includes staff, management, parents and community members.

• A strong leader that promotes collaboration and learning.

• Competent at computer programs such as Word, Excel, etc.

Please email classified ads to info@columbiavalleypioneer.com

Connie.Freestone@HRBLOCK.CA

EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY

Health Director Reports to the Director of Operations The Director of Health will implement the Shuswap Indian Band’s Health & Wellness Plan while continually ensuring that the community members have access to efficient and quality health services. The position reports to the Director of Operations and will be responsible for the budgeting, reporting, operation and management of all programs and services within the Health Services department. The position requires substantial operational and planning oversight. The Director of Health will assist in the implementation of the Health operational strategies, as well as human resources management and is the main contact for emergencies(on-call).

Hours: Scheduled On-Call - weekday evenings, weekends and statutory holidays Location: Family Dynamix – West office Start date: Immediately Shift schedule: Flexible days, evenings and weekends as required Duties: The Safe Homes Program- Support Worker is part of a team of casual staff that agrees to carry a cellular phone and serve scheduled on-call duty for the Safe Homes Programs. When called-out, they deliver a confidential emergency service providing temporary, safe, and supportive accommodation for women and their children who have experienced or who are at risk of domestic abuse, threats or violence. Support Workers will provide transportation, information, support and when appropriate, follow-up services for women.

REQUIREMENTS • Post-secondary degree in Business Administration, Health Administration, Humanities, or related field of study.

• Nursing Degree is an asset.

• 5 years directly related experience or an equivalent combination of education and experience.

• Experience in First Nations health services management.

• Must have a good understanding and adhere to: General Accepted Accounting Practices (GAAP) and have direct experience with funding contribution agreements.

• Valid BC Drivers Licence and reliable personal vehicle.

Qualifications: A Grade 12 diploma, along with excellent verbal and written communication skills, and some knowledge of women’s issues with a feminist perspective. A valid B.C. driver’s license and a reliable vehicle are essential. This position requires union membership. Pursuant to provincial legislation, the applicant must agree to undergo a criminal records investigation.

KEY ATTRIBUTES: • Understands and respects Shuswap cultural principles and protocols and is able to apply this understanding in work situations.

• Understand the determinants of health and works in collaboration with other departments both internally and externally to address these needs.

• Knowledge of Federal and Provincial funding partners.

• Have strong proposal writing skills with demonstrated ability to secure as well as pursue other funding agreements.

• Ability to multitask and prioritize work efficiently.

• Manage budget in an honourable and accountable manner.

• Maintain good working relations and communication with external groups such as: First Nations Health Authority (FNHA), Indigenous Services Canada (ISC), the Shuswap Indian Band Council, local hospitals and local health professionals.

The successful candidates must have: • Early Childhood Education (ECE) Certification and license to practice • A clear criminal record check for vulnerable persons • Up-to-date immunization record • Child Safe First Aid Certificate • Possess a valid class 5 driver’s license Please submit a cover letter, resume, and a copy of your ECE certificate and license to: Carrie Rickards, General Manager Eva Joseph Learning and Cultural Society Email: carrie.littlebadgers@gmail.com Thank you to all applicants who apply however, only those candidates selected for an interview will be contacted.

Safe Homes Program Support Worker Casual On-Call Position

Application deadline: Ongoing until filled.

Local Electrical Contractor looking for Journeyman and Apprentice Electrician.

Wage DOE. Email Resume to ekelectric@telus.net.

Please email resume with cover letter to

RESPONSIBILITIES INCLUDE: • Works closely with the First Nations Health Authority (FNHA) regarding programs funded by FNHA such as Aboriginal Head Start on reserve, immunization, home and community care, NNADAP, brighter futures and healthy living and wellness, etc..

• Ensure that traditional and cultural health approaches are incorporated into all health service delivery and will collaborate with other members of staff.

• Provides leadership to the development, implementation and evaluation of strategic plans that enables the Shuswap Indian Band to meet its health needs.

• Plans, implements and evaluates programs and interventions to address health issues, considering relevant evidence, legislation and regulations and policies.

• Oversees the full financial management cycle of the Health Department from budgeting, monitoring, financial accountability and the efficient use of all health resources.

• Develops annual health workplans that align with the Comprehensive Community Plan and the Shuswap Indian Band Strategic Plan.

• Collect, assess, analyze and applies information from various data sources to make evidence informed decisions for nursing services, program planning, development and priority setting with individuals, families, groups and communities and interprets information for professional and community audiences.

• Provides overall leadership and direction to team members using effective management techniques (i.e., coaching, mentoring, skill and leadership development, performance management).

• Use evidence and research to influence health policies, programs and practises and synthesizes nursing and health knowledge from a broad range of theories, models and frameworks to address the health status of populations, inequities in health, determinants of health, strategies for health promotion, disease and injury prevention, health protection, case management, as well as the factors that influence the delivery and use of nursing and health services.

• Collaborates effectively with internal and external stakeholders to develop, implement and evaluate programs and services.

• Develops program budgets and allocated funds within the budget to accomplish objectives while monitoring the variance against the budget.

• Advocate for public policy and services that promote, and protect the health and well-being of individuals, family groups and communities.

• Involve individuals, families, groups, and communities as active partners to take address health inequities and foster a self- management care approach for chronic conditions.

• Advocate for and uses culturally relevant and appropriate approaches when building relationships and providing nursing services.

• Build capacity, improves performance and enhances the quality of the working environment by sharing knowledge, expertise and experience with colleagues, students, First Nations and other members of the health team.

• Participate in collaborative, interdisciplinary and intersectoral partnerships to enhance the health of individuals, family groups and populations.

• Participate in strategic planning sessions with SIB. • Participates in community engagement and wellness implementation on a regular basis.

• Develops and pursues other funding agreements.

• Participate in senior management meetings and general staff meetings.

• Coordinates and ensures there is an emergency measures plan for the Shuswap Indian Band.

• Acts and main contact for emergencies (on-call) and ensures appropriate referrals to services.

• Perform other related duties as requested by the Director of Operations

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.

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.

Please recycle this newspaper

Application process: Submit a resume and cover letter to Purnima Gosavi, Director of Program Management, Family Dynamix, pgosavi@familydynamix.ca, Box 2289, Invermere, B.C., V0A 1K0 Just a reminder… The classified deadline is 12 noon Friday.

TERMS AND CONDITIONS: • Full-time, salaried position (no paid overtime).

• Must adhere to the Shuswap Indian Band Human Resources Policy and Procedure Manual (Approved April 4, 2018) and the Financial Policies (Approved October 24, 2017).

To apply contact: Shuswap Indian Band, #3, 492 Arrow Road, Invermere BC, V0A 1K2 Fax: 250.341.3683 or email Angela Sarsons, Director of Operations: dops@shuswapband.ca Deadline for applications: Friday, February 7th, 2020 at 4 pm

January 30, 2020

The Columbia Valley Pioneer • 19

FAITH Ingratitude and gratitude

By Fr. Jojo Augustin St. Joseph’s Catholic Church In both the Old Testament and the New Testament, God laments over humanity’s ingratitude.

“Hear, O heavens, and listen, O earth, for the Lord speaks: Sons have I raised and reared, but they have disowned me! An ox knows its owner, and an ass, its master’s manger; but Israel does not know, my people have not understood. Ah! sinful nation, people laden with wickedness, evil race, corrupt children! They have forsaken the Lord, spurned the Holy One of Israel and apostatized” (Isaiah 1:2-4).

“He came to what was His own, but His own people did not accept him” (John 1:11). Hence, Jesus invites us to be thankful. At the tomb of Lazarus, Jesus raised his eyes and said, “Father, I thank you for hearing me” (John 11:41).

St. Paul advises us: “Give thanks always and for everything in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ to God the Father” (Ephesians 5:20). “And whatever you do, in word or in deed, do everything in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him” (Colossians 3:17).

Psalms 107:1 advises us: “Give thanks to the Lord who is good, whose love endures forever!”

The medieval Christian mystic, Meister Eckhart, suggested that if the only prayer we say in our lifetime is “thank you,” that would suffice.

“To speak gratitude is courteous and pleasant, to enact gratitude is generous and noble, but to live gratitude is to touch Heaven,” said Johannes A. Gaertner.

Are we, on a constant and consistent basis, offering our thanks to God by how we use our time, our talents and our treasure as good stewards?

“What is the chief goal of human life?” the Westminster Catechism asks in its opening question and answer.

“To glorify God and enjoy Him forever,” is the answer.

A chief way we do that is by thanking God moment by moment for the gifts that God has lavished upon us.

Let us be thankful for God’s gift of New Year 2020.

LAKE WINDERMERE ALLIANCE CHURCH Sundays 10:30 a.m.

Worship Service & K.I.D.S. Church 326 10th Avenue, Invermere 250-342-9535 • www.lwac.ca

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 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 ST. PETER’S LUTHERAN MISSION OF INVERMERE 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

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

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

Relief Society, 11:15 a.m.

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

The Pioneer can

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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.

We can see clearly now: first newborn of 2020 Jaxon Allen Miller may have been the valley’s first baby of the decade. Born January 3, 2020 at 4:32 p.m., the tot weighed in at 7 pounds and 14 ounces. Mom, Tierra Roberts, said: “We are all happy, healthy and enjoying every moment with our little family.”

Photo submitted

Phone: (250) 341-6299 Fax: 1-855-377-0312 info@columbiavalleypioneer.com N E W S PA P E R

www.columbiavalleypioneer.com

20 • The Columbia Valley Pioneer

The Qat’muk Indigenous Protected and Conserved Area will protect Jumbo Valley forever.

The Jumbo Creek Conservation Society wishes to THANK and CONGRATULATE the untold thousands of individuals and the organizations who supported the 30-year struggle to protect the Jumbo Valley’s spiritual importance, resident wildlife (notably grizzlies), and its world class mountain integrity.

January 30, 2020