Columbia Valley Pioneer, February 6, 2020

February 6, 2020 Vol. 17/Issue 6

The Columbia Valley Pioneer • 1 February 6, 2020

Your Weekly Source for News and Events

The Columbia Valley

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Kitty, Invermere’s pug librarian, was promoted to the Great Library in the Sky on January 15 after nearly 13 of years welcoming patrons to the library and snuggling beside them. In her time off, Kitty loved boating with her family and being adored, as shown in this 2010 photo with Bob Walker and Hollis Babich. For more on the fluffy librarian, see page 8.

Memorial photo submitted by Bob and Ginny Walker

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2 • The Columbia Valley Pioneer

February 6, 2020

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Braving the cold for a good cause Guests at Fairmont Hot Springs Resort’s ski hill were invited to join the Aussie lifty crew for a bikini ski on Sunday, January 26 as part of the resort’s Aussie Day fundraiser for the Australian Red Cross and those affected by bushfires across Australia.

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*Minimum 20K commitment for Landscaping Project or Earthworks

Reading and lunching with buddies

Village of Radium Hot Springs

Grant in Aid Applications

Schools across the valley – and the region – joined a Columbia Basin Alliance for Literacy program and participated in The East Kootenay Great Big Buddy Read where kindergarten to grade three students were paired up with older students to read together during Family Literacy Week last week.

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.

“Students at Martin Morigeau Elementary School thoroughly enjoyed participating in the Great Big Buddy Read challenge with big buddies, families, staff and even Cst. Brennan Kish, who joined us despite being on night shift. Afterwards, we almost ran out of chairs for our PAC-organized Community Lunch,” said Alyssan Gauthier, MMES vice principal.

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February 6, 2020

The Columbia Valley Pioneer • 3

VALLEY NEWS Tie council vote denies Dragonfly daycare parking variance at new centre

By Steve Hubrecht steve@columbiavalleypioneer.com Invermere council members reiterated their personal support for reducing plastic bags during last week’s council meeting, and narrowly voted not to grant a development variance permit that would have eliminated designated required parking spots and saved more than $20,000 for the new Dragonfly daycare centre.

Plastic bags Determined Invermere resident Stephanie Van De Kemp came as a delegation of one to the Tuesday, January 28 meeting, following up on her efforts in December when she collected more than 1,000 names on a petition and presented to council, seeking to ban single-use checkout plastic bags in Invermere. She gave a detailed run down of statistics, noting that Canadians throw away more than 34 million single-use plastic bags every day (or more than 23,611 per minute). Van De Kemp also pointed out that several B.C. municipalities including Victoria, Tofino and Squamish have already banned plastic bags, and that three local stores (Sobeys, Home Hardware and AG Valley Foods) have done so.

Invermere mayor Al Miller told Van De Kemp that he personally agrees with her, saying “it’s a movement now and it’s rolling.” He told her in terms of the district making a formal policy on plastic bags, that “it’s on our

priorities for advocacy, but it’s not set up for bylaws at the moment.”

During the public question and comment period at the end of the meeting, several other members of the public voiced support for the ban. Van De Kemp asked how it could be bumped from an advocacy priority to a bylaw or policy-level priority. Miller explained it would have to go through an official process, first being discussed by the Committee of the Whole, and that to elevate to it to a policy priority necessarily entails bumping another pending matter off the policy priority list and replacing it with the plastic bag policy. He noted that while that may sound simple in theory, it does take time to go through the official process. Van De Kemp expressed a dogged resolve to follow the matter through.

Parking at new daycare Council received a development variance permit application from Dragonfly Discovery Children’s Centre owner Charlotte Streicek during the January 28 meeting. Streicek, who currently runs the Dragonfly daycare centre in Radium and is seeking to open a new one in Invermere in the old Strand’s restaurant building, sought to decrease the number of required parking spots at the new location from five to zero, which would save Dragonfly $22,500. District staff explained at the meeting that any time there is a “change of use” for a commercial operation with parking spots, the new business is

required to pay any additional parking fees.

Neighbours and supporters of the new daycare sent in two letters and a petition with 27 signatures in support of the application. Debate about the issue quickly became heated, and in the end two of the four council members present — Kayja Becker and Ute Juras — voted in support of the application and the two others — Miller and councillor Greg Anderson (who was patched in to the meeting by phone) — voted against the application.

Anderson asked if Dragonfly had listed parking as one of the items on its successful grant application to the Columbia Basin Trust. Streicek confirmed parking was on the list, but added that unforeseen problems with the building had raised other expenses far beyond what she had anticipated.

“We were aware of the parking, but had I known about the mechanical engineering issues, I would have done things differently,” said Streicek. “It’s to the point where the remaining money is needed to help us complete the project.”

“I’m going to be voting in favour of consistency and fairness to other businesses,” said Anderson.

“It’s going to set precedence. And any time a new business changes hands, we’re going to get asked for variance on parking — with good reason,” said Miller. “We shouldn’t vary.”

Continued on page 10 . . .

Radium council: pools, churches and road art

By Dauna Ditson dauna@columbiavalleypioneer.com Radium pools sorely missed Radium council members expressed concern about the ongoing closure at the Radium Hot Springs pools at their meeting on Wednesday, January 22.

When council members had a tour of the facility, they said they saw damage where flooring samples had split in half and where a membrane intended to prevent water damage had slipped out of place.

Parks Canada is “cognizant of the impact on our local community,” said councillor Mike Gray.

“They got the message loud and clear that the community was hurting because of it.”

In an email, Parks Canada officer Lesley Matheson said: “Parks Canada is aware of the importance of the Family Day weekend for businesses in the Village of Radium Hot Springs,” but declined to speculate on whether the facility would be operational by the holiday weekend.

Kristin McCauley, who owns Inn on Canyon and Kootenay Vacation Rentals, wrote a letter to council to ask them “to see if anything can be done to mitigate the damage and impact this additional closure is going to have for the business community.”

She found news about the closure “heartbreaking” and said the last closure resulted in a 96 per cent cancellation rate “and irate customers that found themselves here.”

She went on to say that her family and those she had anticipated employing struggled during the recent closures.

“It impacts the renos and maintenance I can no longer afford to do, the contractors I cannot hire and the work that I now cannot complete in order to get ready for the upcoming summer season,” she wrote.

“Nobody really knew how big of a draw the pools really are during the shoulder season,” Mayor Clara Reinhardt said after the council meeting.

Even so, she empathizes with Parks Canada officials and said “they’re taking a beating from both sides.”

Continued on page 10 . . .

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4 • The Columbia Valley Pioneer

February 6, 2020

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Canal Flats council update

By Dean Midyette Special to the Pioneer

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 9th, 2020 Columbia Ridge Waterworks Ltd.

The woman who was reported missing on January 27, 2020 has been located. The Columbia Valley RCMP is pleased to confirm that the 32-year-old woman is safe and sound. Thanks to the media and public for your assistance.

This past week, January 27 through February 2, the Columbia Valley RCMP responded to 68 calls for service. The following is a summary of some of the files our officers responded to.

• On Monday, January 27 at about 11:15 a.m. Columbia Valley RCMP responded to a single vehicle collision on Highway 93/95 near Canal Flats. The driver of a Ford Fiesta was northbound when he left the roadway and went into the ditch. The incident was believed to be precipitated by a medical emergency. The driver and lone occupant was transported to the hospital by ambulance to be assessed.

• On Wednesday, January 29 at about 11 a.m. police received a report of a shoplifter at a grocery store in Fairmont Hot Springs. A male allegedly stole several

bottles of liquor. A suspect has been identified and police continue to investigate.

• On Friday, January 31 at about 10 p.m. police responded to a report of an intoxicated male causing a disturbance in Fairmont Hot Springs. Officers attended the area and located the male who was arrested for being intoxicated in a public place. The male was provided a ride home and released without charges.

• On Saturday, February 1 at about 9:30 p.m. Columbia Valley RCMP received information from Parks Canada that a black Jeep with two occupants had driven through the park gates on Highway 93 which was closed at the time due to the avalanche risk. The Jeep was located and the driver claimed he was unaware of the highway closure.

The driver was issued a violation ticket for failing to obey a traffic control device.

• On Sunday, February 2 at about 1:30 a.m. police received a complaint of a loud party on 7th Avenue in Invermere. Police attended and learned a fight had broken out between two groups and the individuals had since departed. Police remained in the area until those attending the party departed safely.

The second regular meeting of the year for the Canal Flats council took place on Monday, January 27.

Council heard a number of presentations to begin the meeting. RCMP staff sergeant Darren Kakuno gave his quarterly report, noting that Canal Flats is responsible for approximately four per cent of the calls received by the local detachment and updating council on staffing levels and member training.

The new executive director of the Invermere Public Library, Anne Rogers, informed council of the outreach initiatives and programming that the library coordinates as well as infrastructure upgrading that will be taking place in 2020 thanks to grants from the Columbia Basin Trust and the Columbia Valley Community Association.

Council also received an update from economic development officer Chris Fields.

Council chose to defer a decision on an issue affecting a resident regarding required building inspections.

The Association of Kootenay and Boundary Local Governments will be holding their annual conference in Radium Hot Springs from April 24 through 26. As this is close enough for council and staff to commute, council passed a motion to secure conference credentials for the full council as well as manager Adrian Bergles with minimal cost to taxpayers.

Council approved support for grant applications through the Columbia Basin Trust Public Art Grant Program (a grant for up to $30,000 for a public art project with the village responsible for covering 20 per cent of the grant monies received) and the Columbia Basin Trust Community Outdoor Revitalization Grant Program (a grant for up to $10,000 with a minimum of 20 per cent of the monies received being covered by the village). Also approved was an application to the BC Hydro Community Tree Planting Initiative to purchase trees to be planted on public lands at no cost to the village.

The Official Community Plan amendment and the water use and conservation bylaw were both adopted by council.

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February 6, 2020

The Columbia Valley Pioneer • 5

Submitted photo

Celebrity Chef brings new cultural and culinary experience to Fairmont Hot Springs Resort Sponsored content

by Fairmont Hot Springs Resort Well-known celebrity Chef Vikram Vij is bringing a new and exciting culinary and cultural experience to Fairmont Hot Springs Resort on March 21, 2020.

Experience a day of cuisine and culture of India with celebrity chef, cookbook author and television personality Vikram Vij. Presented by Fairmont Hot Springs Resort, this event offers a day of incredible food, a cooking demonstration, entertainment, and personal access to one of Canada’s most successful and charismatic culinary icons.

Chef Vikram Vij will share his incredible journey from India to Europe, to renowned Canadian chef, author and TV personality.

“We are thrilled to have Chef Vikram Vij share his talents and his incredible story with our guests,” says Vivek Sharma, Chief Executive Officer at Fairmont Hot Springs Resort. “The event is an opportunity for guests to be inspired by his journey and for them to enjoy truly amazing food and authentic Indian entertainment.”

Chef Vikram Vij opened Vij’s restaurant in Vancouver in 1994, with Meeru Dhalwala joining him soon after to collaborate on a menu that would change the landscape of Indian cuisine in Canada. Using traditional Indian methods, spices and culinary influences, and pairing them with sustainable, local produce from British Columbia, they created one of the best-known and most beloved Indian restaurants in North America.

Chief Executive Officer Vivek Sharma is passionate about offering new experiences to all guests and members of the community. “Fairmont Hot Springs is known as a family-friendly ski resort and of course for our legendary mineral hot pools, but we are also excited to bring new experiences to our community and to highlight local talent.

We have the students from the College of the Rockies performing a cultural song and dance at this event and we look forward to inviting other groups and organizations to perform at future events,” Vivek says.

Schedule of Events: • 10:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. – Cooking demonstration followed by lunch. A very limited amount of 50 tickets will be available.

• 6:00 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. – Dinner with Chef Vikram Vij. Welcome drink, meet, greet, mix and mingle with Chef Vikram Vij followed by dinner.

Ticket prices range from $125 to $250 depending on which events are attended.

For foodies, or at least fans of the Food Network, a VIP experience is available. Only 20 guests have access to the VIP package that includes both the cooking demo / lunch and dinner plus a custom growler and a personal chef ’s jacket signed by Chef Vikram Vij. A pretty incredible gift for anyone who likes to play along with Chopped Canada at home!

Event tickets are available through Eventbrite only, and guests who want to immerse in all Fairmont Hot Springs Resort has to offer (including access to the legendary mineral hot pools) will receive a 15 per cent room discount. For room bookings, please call 1-800-663-4979 or book online with promo code: CHEF.

A Culinary Event with Celebrity Chef Vikram Vij March 21, 2020

EXPERIENCE A DAY OF CUISINE AND CULTURE OF INDIA WITH CELEBRITY CHEF, COOKBOOK AUTHOR AND TELEVISION PERSONALITY VIKRAM VIJ! Presented by Fairmont Hot Springs Resort, this event offers a day of incredible food, cooking demonstration, entertainment, and personal access to one of Canada’s most successful and charismatic culinary icons.

for full schedule of events, visit fairmonthotsprings.com/events-and-festivals

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6 • The Columbia Valley Pioneer

February 6, 2020

PERSPECTIVE Valentines for the valley

Historical Lens

By Dauna Ditson dauna@columbiavalleypioneer.com There are so many things to love about the valley, not all of which have corresponding mailboxes to accept your paper hearts and appreciation. For Valentine’s Day, we want to hear your stories and see your pictures or drawings of whatever you most love, whether or not the object of your affection has a mailbox to accept your sweet sentiments.

Years ago one of my best friends told her husband she was pregnant with their first baby through an anonymous valentine in a newspaper. Instead of telling me the news, she passed me the paper when we went for tea and waited for me to figure it out. With our valentine’s issue coming up we’re offering you the opportunity to make your valentines as public as you’d like too.

I’ll start with a few valentines to our community: Hey mountains, you’re lovely and so handsomely tall.

Dear whole community, you’re the greatest and so kind and welcoming. Also, not to be creepy, but you’re very pretty.

Dear downtown, thanks for all the shops.

Dear Lussier hot springs, thanks for being the most magical place on earth. How is it possible that you exist?!

Dear everyone who shares their stories with me and lets me snap their pictures at events: thanks for being so open, vibrant and interesting.

Dear toddler, thanks for the hug. You’re the sweetest.

Hey wetlands, thanks for being a safe place for our birds on their grand journeys.

Dear mayors, chiefs and area directors, thanks for loving this place so much and doing your best for all of us. Thanks also for working together, pursuing joint initiatives and highlighting each other’s successes.

Dear people who send in letters, thanks for sharing your opinions and having strong convictions.

Dear post office, thanks for getting my package to me when it didn’t list my mailbox number. What excellent service and sleuthing!

Dear ski hills and cross-country trails, thanks for existing and making winter more fun.

Dear entrepreneurs, thanks for starting stuff, making things happen and giving us things to do.

Dear fitness classes, gyms, massage therapists and healthcare providers, thanks for helping residents take care of ourselves.

Dear proofreader, thanks for fixing all of my embarassing mistakes. We’re lucky to have you.

Dear you, thanks for reading the paper.

Send your valentines to dauna@columbiavalleypioneer.com by Friday, February 7 at noon if you’d like us to consider running them in our next issue.

Cultivating Conrad Kain working in his garden west of Wilmer, crica early 1920s.

Photo (C 2229) courtesy Windermere District Historical Society

Tending our hearts Dear Editor: February calls to mind valentines, chocolate, love and the Heart and Stroke Foundation. Media is awash with messages of romance, the right gift, the blessings of charity and how to look after our cardio-vascular systems. It is heart month. This seems, then, to be as good a time as any to address the subject of what affects both the physical and the romantic aspects of the heart: spiritual love. From agnostics to Zoroastrians, we all have spiritual counsel which enables us to live with others in harmony, to treat our loved ones in a befitting manner, and to tend ourselves as we should being worthy subjects of God. What, you might ask yourself, does religion have to do with any of this? Since the latter part of the 20th century, and with increasing vigour into this one, there have been countless research projects on the effects of religion/spirituality on health and well-being. While some of the results are less definitive, many have produced conclusions which are leading modern western medicine to sit up and take notice.

Here are three links: https://www.hindawi.com/journals/isrn/2012/278730/; https://www.healthlinkbc. ca/health-topics/abq0372; and https://www.verywellmind.com/how-spirituality-can-benefit-mental-and-physical-health-3144807.

For dozens more, a quick internet search of “spirituality and health” will produce enough results to satisfy everyone’s curiosity.

Basically, those with strong spiritual values tend to fare better in terms of physical and mental well-being, possibly because their faith and the rituals of prayer/ meditation enable them to better deal with stress and crisis. To bring us back to the topic of February and heart month, the most easily quantifiable results have to do with cardiovascular health and kindness. This link is a chart from Random Acts of Kindness which summarizes some of the common findings: https:// www.dartmouth.edu/wellness/emotional/rakhealthfacts.pdf.

So, as you take measures to find the perfect valentine, to take whatever steps are your wont to celebrate “heart month,” and to wend your way through life’s challenges, please remember to be kind – and remember to include yourself in that.

In closing, please allow me to leave you with this from the Hidden Words: “O Son of Spirit! My first counsel is this: Possess a pure, kindly and radiant heart, that thine may be a sovereignty ancient, imperishable and everlasting.”

Shizu E. M. Futa, Bahá’í Invermere, B.C.

The Columbia Valley

CANADIAN COMMUNITY NEWSPAPER AWARD 2013

Pioneer

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

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

Amanda Nason Associate Publisher/ Sales Manager

Dauna Ditson Editor

Steve Hubrecht Magazine Editor/ Reporter

Lerissa McLaughlin Sales Representative

Emily Rawbon Graphic Design

Amanda Murray Office Administrator/ Sales

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

February 6, 2020

The Columbia Valley Pioneer • 7

LETTERS Recruiting entrepreneurs Dear Editor: We are very excited to be participating in the Pilot Entrepreneur Immigration program.

Rural communities across B.C., including the Columbia Valley, are interested in growing their full-time resident populations and supporting a resilient and diverse business community. The B.C. Provincial Nominee Program Entrepreneur Immigration regional pilot allows communities to target which types of businesses they want to attract.

Year round, the Columbia Valley Community Economic Development Office, the Columbia Valley Chamber of Commerce, Radium Hot Springs Chamber of Commerce, Valley Visitor Services centres, local government offices and Columbia Basin Alliance for Literacy’s Settlement Services regularly help newcomers, travellers and second homeowners, who are trying to find their fit here, understand local business opportunities.

Participating in this program will help the Columbia Valley’s relevant business support services and local government better support newcomers, while reducing service gaps and overlaps.

You may be aware that the average age in the valley is increasing annually, and if we don’t invite young families and new business owners to relocate here, we will have a shortage of workers, business owners, care givers, etc. in a very short time. Therefore, I will continue to work with other leaders in the Columbia Valley to attract and embrace newcomers no matter where they come from.

Clara Reinhardt, Mayor, Radium Hot Springs

Medical problems Dear Editor: In recent months we’ve read numerous accounts of our neighbours and some of the problems faced upon seeking treatment for serious medical problems. That is unfortunate, but it’s part of the trade-off for living in a relatively unpopulated area such as the Columbia Valley. However, I’ve always been very impressed by the rapid local response when my body acts up. All it takes is a single call to the medical clinic and within a day or two, I’m reciting my woes to my caring friend and physician, Dr. Bruce Johnson. And he listens! (That’s one of the benefits of living in a close-knit community such as ours.)

Consider what happened to an acquaintance of mine in the city where he lives: He called his doctor’s office for an appointment.

“I’m sorry, but we can’t fit you in for at least two weeks,” said the receptionist.

“Two weeks! I could be dead by then!”

“No problem. If your wife lets us know, we can just cancel the appointment.”

It’s nice to know that we share our natural paradise with people who care.

Bob Hahn, Juniper Heights

INFORMATION SESSION

FEBRUARY

Editor’s note: Mayor Reinhardt’s letter was initially prepared for Iris Meehan, but Reinhardt agreed to share her response with Pioneer readers after Ms. Meehan’s letter to the editor about immigration ran last week.

6

6:00 pm - 7:00 pm

In favour of immigration

INVERMERE CAMPUS

Dear Editor: The “Migrant opposed to immigration” letter that ran in the Columbia Valley Pioneer on January 30, 2020 is in stark contrast to my view that population growth in Invermere and the Columbia Valley is critical to sustaining this community.

Services that are essential to the valley lifestyle are supported by taxes paid by successful income-earners and our wonderful Alberta neighbours who have been blessing us with their vacation visits and financial means. I advocate for retirees who choose to move here full-time. I advocate for young people who choose to raise a family here, and for entrepreneurs who choose the lifestyle of living and working here. And yes, I fervently advocate for immigration because it has proven to be a benefit to the whole of Canada. Legitimate sources around the world show that immigration and migration benefit us all by raising our standard of living, and those sources reassure us that immigrants contribute far more to Canada than they receive in aid. So many of us in this valley arrived here from somewhere else. We are all “migrants.” It’s also important to note that we of European descent were not the first to populate our valley.

HEALTH CARE ASSISTANT The Health Care Assistant program is one example of how we respond to the employment needs of the

Richard Unger, Invermere

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:

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

Board Member positions available.

Annual General Meeting Tuesday, February 25th, 6:30 p.m.

Pynelogs Cultural Centre

cotr.ca/Invermere

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

8 • The Columbia Valley Pioneer

February 6, 2020

Thank you!

Kitty enjoyed super vising as Bob Walker fished.

Photo submitted

I can’t walk YET but I can glide and it’s all because of Tanelle Bolt from the RAD Society. I want to THANK her and everyone else who helped her raise funds in order to purchase an Alinker bike for me. She even had friends from Vancouver whom donated a nice sum of money. I can’t forget Pastor Mario! He drove from Vancouver in order to deliver this bike in person. How about that. The Alinker bike is designed for people who have mobility issues.

However, it can be used by anyone. If you want more information just go online “Alinker bike” or contact Tanelle at www.radsociety.ca. She is your go-to gal. The Alinker bikes are great for exercise and easy to use. This bike is great for me for walking, buying groceries, etc. It’s much easier then using crutches. My range of words cannot begin to express my gratitude I have for good people who help others.

What a beautiful place to live. Be the reason someone smiles today. Thank You!

Dan Wall C O LU M B I A VA L L E Y P I O N E E R F E AT U R E

For Valentine’s Day, we want to hear your story!

Submit your drawings, pictures and written Valentines. Example: A 200 to 300 word story about your partner at their most romantic.

Please include a daytime phone number which will not be printed.

Invermere library pup promoted to the Great Library in the Sky

By Dauna Ditson dauna@columbiavalleypioneer.com Invermere’s tiniest, furriest librarian spent nearly 13 years on the job – welcoming patrons, donning dresses and snuggling up for story times – before passing away peacefully at home on January 15.

Kitty got the job after Duffy, the previous canine librarian, passed away. Kitty’s best friend, roommate and fellow librarian, Ginny Walker, recalled seeing a pup-wanted ad posted on the library bulletin board as a joke after Duffy died. Ginny took the posting down and said: “nope, that’s filled.”

It was adoration at first sight for Kitty and many of the patrons she served.

At story time, Ginny said, “she would go out and have a cruise through and distract everybody for a few minutes and see what kind of love she could get.”

Some children loved Kitty before they loved books.

One young girl was bribed to finish reading her library books with the promise that she could see Kitty again when she reached the end of her stories.

“I think it really encouraged the kids to come in.

They wanted to come and see Kitty,” Ginny said. “It got them into the library. She was a definite draw, and, once you’re there, how can you not take out a book?”

Kitty especially loved checking out the babies in the Baby Goose program. Ginny suspects it’s because the little ones smelled like warm milk, but maybe it’s because Kitty also enjoyed their coos of delight at her presence.

When daycare groups would visit the library, Kitty would make her rounds, collecting all the affection anyone wanted to lavish on her.

“I’ve seen grown men laying on the floor with her,” Ginny said.

One man would come to the library after a stressful day, and Kitty would go right to work as his therapy dog.

Others would pick Kitty up and defer to her recommendations for their next read.

While she and Kitty had a shared appreciation for a book called The Juggling Pug, Ginny said Kitty kept an

open mind when it came to reading material. She always loved “any book that I like, so that I am sitting down and will pet her,” Ginny said.

No matter how much affection patrons had to share, Kitty was happy to absorb it all.

“They would have to draw the line,” Ginny said.

“Pugs love attention. Pugs actually like to dress up to get more attention.”

Kitty and Ginny came to work together and were such a closely-intertwined team that Ginny would sometimes lose sight of Kitty (even in her fanciest please-petme costumes) because the pug was so close by.

“She was so close to my legs that I didn’t see her. One time it wasn’t a good thing because she tripped me and I cracked my arm,” Ginny said with a laugh.

When Kitty stopped coming into the library, patrons were quick to notice her absence.

“Everybody who comes in asks about her,” Ginny said. “People are sad.”

But the sadness is tempered with sweetness and with memories about the rescue pup’s idiosyncrasies – like her rumbling purr that one of her preffered patrons mistook for a growl.

Kitty’s extended family remembered her fondly over dinner, sharing stories of her adoption, the chair reserved especially for her on camping trips and how she loved kayaking, canoeing and sailing on her days off. She loved being on the water so much that after her first excursion with the Walker clan, she snuck back into the lake in an apparent attempt to get back into the canoe.

Two weeks after Kitty’s passing, Ginny saw her leash and wondered about adopting a new furry pal and coworker. Then she shook off the thought.

“I don’t know if you could be that lucky twice,” she said. “They can turn out to be your best friend. I mean, we’re still leaving the gate open and waiting for her to come through . . . It’s like when you have a whole bunch of kids and then they all to go school and then there’s this empty void.”

In lieu of flowers, patrons are welcome to check out books in Kitty’s memory.

Looking for Business Advice?

The Basin Business Advisors Program provides free one-to-one business advisement and assessment services.

Entry deadline is Friday, February 7th at Noon Email your submission to: dauna@columbiavalleypioneer.com N E W S PA P E R

Corey Kanzig, Business Advisor ckanzig@bbaprogram.ca 250.489.4356 ext. 108 bbaprogram.ca BASIN BUSINESS ADVISORS PROGRAM

A PROGRAM OF

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February 6, 2020

The Columbia Valley Pioneer • 9

Travel 2020 with Send in your best travel photos featuring the Pioneer for entry in the 2020 Travel World contest. The winner will receive a $500 travel voucher that will be doubled if they purchased trip insurance through Travel World.

2019 Travel contest winner!

Top left: Christine Shaw said: This photo of Ty, Emma and Sara was taken at the Arctic Circle as part of a road trip that was over 10,000 kms. Above: Fern Oglestone and her daughter Carol Robideau on a Caribbean cruise. Fern was celebrating her 90th birthday.

Congratulations to Bob Hahn and John Pitcher, who won the Travel World contest for the photo they submitted of their trip to Glover’s Reef Atoll in Belize. Their prize is a $500 travel voucher, which they won in a random draw of entries received in 2019.

The Pioneer issue pictured here during a family vacation to Cancun this winter is from November 2006. Verna Barnes, who submitted the photo, said “13 years ago we lost our Carly: she is who the CVP featured on the front of that edition. It has been a lonnnnng grieving process and I am at the stage where I am now thankful to have had this wonderful sweet girl in my life rather than feeling so much pain when we lost her. This trip was a combined ‘try something new’ on the anniversary of her death (November 8, 2006) as well as an early Christmas celebration. It was a wonderful family week. I carry that front page wherever I go. It is getting a bit tattered.”

Stephanie Sweet, Crisanna MacLeod and Linda Jackson reconnected at Creston Apple Blossom Festival.

Christine Shaw said this photo was taken near Tronconnes, Mexico. Dave, Colleen, Austin, Lauren, Claire, Christine, Jay, Ty, Emma and Sara are pictured.

This picture was taken in March 2019 in the state of Hawaii (Big Island) and is the southern most winery in the United States. This picture is of Dale and Gaylene Heidt of Fairmont Hot Springs.

Fresh Fridays YOUTH Open Mic Nite - Feb 7

Cinefest Film · Last Black Man in San Fransisco · Tue Feb 11 – 7 pm PYNELOGS CULTURAL CENTRE, ART GALLERY & CAFE ALLIUM HOURS: CALL FOR MORE INFO AT 250.342.4423

10 • The Columbia Valley Pioneer

February 6, 2020 . . . ‘Tie’ from page 3

Galleries Open Late The first Fridays of every month

5-8 p.m.

. . . ‘Radium’ from page 3

Art, music, and workshops.

Artist demos and special events.

www.artspotsinvermere.com

Did you triumph over adversity?

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.

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

Becker agreed it is complicated to balance the needs of the larger community for parking space and the need for fairness and consistency with all businesses with the community’s need for daycare, but pointed out the need for daycare is quite strong, and ultimately voted in favour of granting the variance along with Juras.

Council members actually voted twice, the first time on a resolution from district staff not to grant the variance permit. The two-two vote meant the resolution (not to grant the application) stood. Juras then immediately tabled a new motion directly in favour of the application (rather than on the resolution from district staff). The second vote also ended in a two-two stalemate, meaning the variance permit application was denied.

N E W S PA P E R

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

Under New Ownership

Churches and taxes Should churches automatically receive tax exemptions or should local politicians choose which places of worship get tax breaks on a case-by-case basis?

It’s a question Radium council will be asking their regional counterparts to consider at the upcoming Association of Kootenay and Boundary Local Governments (AKBLG) convention, which the village will host in April.

Gray said it’s time to re-evaluate the exemption for churches, which has been in place for over 100 years and started up when the vast majority of the population went to church. Speaking as a member of the LGBTQ community, he said churches are “not as progressive as I would like to see” and that the tax exemption seems like “the state encouraging citizens to go to church.” Even so, he said his main issue with the exemption isn’t personal. Instead he’s after equality between churches and other groups that provide services for the community. Currently, non-profit organizations have to keep applying for tax exemptions, which council may or may not offer. Gray would like see both religious and community groups treated the same way, with tax exemptions approved at council’s discretion.

Councillor Dale Shudra said churches benefit society, encourage congregants to behave well and provide communities with economic benefits worth far more than their tax breaks.

Reinhardt said she was inclined to see what other regional officials think. “It’s a real unfair playing field,” she said. “Our intention is to open the conversation and see what happens.” Council voted 4-1 in favour of carrying the resolution forward for discussion at AKBLG, with Shudra in opposition. While Jesus instructed his followers to “give to Caesar what is Caesar’s and to God what is God’s,” his tax advice is open for lawmakers to interpret.

Roundabout discussion goes in circles Council wasn’t crazy about any of the proposed designs they received for the centrepiece of the roundabout

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“I am very disappointed that two of the four councillors voted against the parking variance, with the tie (vote) going to the district, despite community support,” Streicek told the Pioneer, speaking a few days after the meeting. “We always knew we could apply for the variance if there were unexpected costs to free up some of the funding to complete the project as presented. The district has $176,615.67 in the parking reserve fund, so it is sad that this funding that is supposed to go into the daycare, is going into a parking fund. Our capacity will be 52 children maximum a day and the restaurant (Strand’s) had 120 occupancy.”

The matter is now subject to a six-month cooling off period before it can be brought before council again, with only one regulatory loophole exception — if the mayor chooses to bring the matter back to council before the six-month cooling off period is over. the Province will be bestowing on the community. While the Province wanted the final design by the end of the month, Reinhardt said: “We’re under the gun if we want to even make an effort.”

Each council member had a different stance on the issue. Councillor Todd Logan said he would like to pick a design and move forward, but councillor Tyler McCauley said none of the designs seemed like a fit for the community. Gray pushed for a grand icon to welcome visitors.“Let’s take the time. Let’s do it right instead of having something that we’re just ho hum with,” he said. Shudra questioned if the design should be iconic and asked if the centrepiece should be more than a practical piece of infrastructure.

“Everyone has a bit of a different vision,” Reinhardt said.

“Are we overthinking this? . . . If we scrap it and start over, I guess I wonder what would change.” The next step, she suggested, was to figure out what kind of cost they would be looking at, so council agreed to cost-check their least-disliked option. “If I may say, we’ll be talking about this some more,” Reinhardt said.

RCMP on the streets In Sgt. Darren Kakuno’s RCMP update to council, he said that property crime is down, that the local detachment will be holding a substance abuse course in February where RCMP officers across the province are requesting spots, and that – as requested – he’s been scheduling additional traffic patrols for the Radium area. Gray commended Kakuno for the RCMP presence on the streets in the evenings. “I’m impressed by the number of times I’ve been pulled over,” he said, adding that he’s pleased to see the RCMP working hard to keep the roads safe at night.

Kakuno also said the detachment has been receiving a substantial number of false alarms and abandoned 911 calls.

Long time for short-term rental decision Council won’t be making a decision on policies around short-term rentals in time for the summer season as planned, said Reinhardt. Instead she anticipates new rules coming into place for 2021.

WEDNESDAYS % *

30 ANY

OFF

PIZZA!

*Dine-in only!

February 6, 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, February 6

• 10:30-11:30 a.m.: Family Free Play at the Invermere Library. All ages welcome for Lego, Duplo & Magnatile fun!

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

• 2 p.m.: Writing Romance Workshop with local author, Roxy Buroughs at the Invermere Library. Free to attend, all welcome to learn a little more about the genre!

• DJ at Copper City Saloon.

Sunday, February 9 • 10:30 - 1 p.m.: Pickleball at Columbia Lake Recreation Centre.

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

• 2 p.m.: Zumba with Julie at the Edgewater Community Hall, bring indoor shoes. $2 drop in. This program will continue Feb 23, March 8 & 22

Monday, February 10 • 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 to learn new songs and meet other caregivers in the valley.

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.: Fairmont and District Lions Club meets the 2nd and 4th Monday of each month at the Lions Den. • 7 p.m.: Free Social Dance Lessons every Monday at 7 pm at Fairmont Hot Springs Resort in the lobby. No experience necessary.

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

Tuesday, February 11 • 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.

• 6:30 p.m.: Cinefest Film Series at Pynelogs – The Last Black Man in San Francisco. Film at 7 p.m.

• 7 p.m.: Trivia night at the Farside Inn every Tuesday.

• 9 p.m.: Karaoke at the Farside Pub in Fairmont.

CANAL FLATS MONTHLY BOOK EXCHANGE

lle y

Saturday, February 8

Roxy Boroughs is teaching a romance writing course on Saturday, February 8.

e Co lumbia Va

• 9:30 a.m.: Seniors active walking group meets every Friday morning at the entrance of Columbia Gardens Village. Everyone welcome. Just show up!

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

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

• 2-3 p.m.: Winter Reading Club at the Invermere Library. This week is all about the Percy Jackson and the Olympians series! If you’ve read the book(s), join us for story extenders, crafts and more!

• 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..

• 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.: 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.

• DJ at Copper City Saloon.

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

at the Discovery Centre

vin g th

Friday, February 7

PERSONAL REAL ESTATE CORPORATION

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• 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. Join us for 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. Contact is gredivers@gmail.com.

• 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 and Eatery every Thursday.

Wednesday, February 12th from 3:30-4:30 p.m.

Check-out a book without driving in winter conditions! Register for a FREE library card by showing photo ID with a local address.

invermere.bc.libraries.coop COLUMBIA VALLE Y PIONEER SUBSCRIPTIONS

Receive your Pioneer in the mail!

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Wednesday, February 12 • 3:30-4:30 p.m.: Invermere Public Library’s Canal Flats Book Exchange at the village office. Come check out a book without driving on winter roads.

• 7 p.m.: Wilmer Community Club Bingo.

6-month subscriptions also available.

Thursday, February 13 • 10:30 a.m.: Family Story Time at the Invermere Library. Join us for Valentine’s Day stories, songs and a craft!

• 2 p.m.: Senior’s Tea at the Invermere Library. All welcome for tea and good company! Need a lift? Call us at 250-342-6416 • 7 p.m.: Smartie Pants Concert. Seniors’ Hall. Tickets $10. Available at Trading Post.

Friday, February 14 • 2-3 p.m.: The Invermere Library’s Winter Reading Club: Robert Munsch Books! This week at Columbia House (1030 10th St). Free, drop-in, all welcome!

• 7-8:30 p.m.: Valentine’s Day Couples Yoga Workshop at Mountain Om Yoga & Wellness. $50 per couple. Call/text 204-299-2464 to register.

Saturday, February 15 • Snow Pirates at the Fairmont Hot Springs Ski Hill. Hunt for hidden treasures and build a cool snow ship (weather permitting) • 10:30-11:30 a.m.: Family Free Play at the Invermere Library. All ages welcome for Lego, Duplo & Magnatile fun!

• 7 p.m. - 1 a.m.: Bantams Provincials Fundraiser Dance. Wilmer Hall.

Tickets $30. Available at Arrowhead and the Trading Post. Free shuttle provided.

N E W S PA P E R

Contact Amanda at 250-341-6299 ext: 101 for more information.

Don’t miss: Romance writing course Are you an avid romance reader? Thinking of writing a love story? Perhaps for Valentine’s Day? Or adding a touch of romance to an existing idea? Multi-published romance author Roxy Boroughs explains the basics of the genre with helpful tips to get you started. Her Writing Romance Workshop will take place at the Invermere Public Library at 2 p.m. on Saturday, February 8. Free to attend, all welcome!

12 • The Columbia Valley Pioneer

February 6, 2020

B Helping

h i ng c n a r

Out

By Dave Meadows Pioneer Columnist

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

COME TOGETHER AT COPPER POINT RESORT

The first National Urban Forestry Conference (NUFC) took place in 1978. The opening statement began with: “The time has come for urban communities to stop seeing the trees and start looking at the forest.”

Urban forestry has grown to encompass ecology, hydrology, atmospheric science, energy conservation, stormwater and erosion control, as well as civil and environmental engineering disciplines, all interacting within urban and natural spaces.

Trees have endless benefits in all sectors of society and much research has been quantified and documented since that initial NUFC event 42 years ago. For example, one large tree can lift up to 100 gallons of water out of the ground and discharge it into the air in one day and can also provide a day’s oxygen for up to four people.

Trees intercept rainfall, reduce run-off and shade asphalt, making streets and parking lots cooler and extending the life of the asphalt.

The fact that trees impact people’s moods, emotions and enjoyment of their surroundings may be one of the

greatest benefits urban forests provide. One only needs to be involved in a public tree removal in Invermere to see firsthand the public passions that trees evoke. Watch children playing and climbing trees or building a fortress under a tree and witness the joy and appreciation trees give to young people. Trees also beautify the landscape and screen unsightly views. Trees provide food for people and wildlife (fruits, seeds, nuts and berries) and bring us closer to nature and help us to reconnect with culture.

You may have heard of the popularity of Forest Bathing, a natural, therapeutic treatment that improves mental and physical health by specifically immersing oneself within a forested surrounding.

In the Columbia Valley, trees provide employment to foresters, arborists, lumber workers, researchers, tree workers, etc. They also provide recreation, attracting tourists to hiking/biking trails, campgrounds and parks.

Urban forests like those in Invermere enhance the economic stability of a community by attracting visitors, businesses and new residents. Research has shown that people tend to linger and shop longer when streets are shaded by trees. Apartments and offices that are surrounded by trees also tend to rent more quickly and have lower vacancy rates. According to the Council of Tree and Landscaping Appraisers, landscaping, especially with trees, can increase property values as much as 20 percent!

At Kinsmen Beach alone, there are 249 mature, 116 young established and 25 newly-planted publicly-owned trees. No wonder this urban oasis is such a popular spot year-round!

Minor hockey minute bin. This is our first team that used half ice for their Novice and Initiation levels, and the skill level shows in their play.

The Senior Girls battled hard against the Strathmore The Windermere Valley Minor Hockey teams have struggled over the years to beat their arch rivals at the A Midget Girls Team this past weekend. They played Satteam level. The Atom A team broke the jinx on Satur- urday, unfortunately losing 3-1. After our girls losing day, beating Kimberley 5-1. The team played a superior their goalie due to a concussion, Hannah Goldsmith had game, with their passing and the use of the defence in stepped in to save the day by playing her very first game their offensive play. Goals were scored by Tobin (2) both in net and was amazing. Sunday’s rematch lead the girls set up by Jake Gramlich and one assist by Jordan Maville. to a 4-2 victory. Hannah had another tremendous game.

Memphis Martin scored shorthanded, then Ryker Chasse Kayla Gallagher had a hat trick of assists. Goals this weekscored the third goal, and Jake scored on a pass from To- end were scored by Dana Angebrandt, Caydence Floyd, Jersey Ponych, and two by Soren Douglas.

The PeeWee B team played against Kimberley on Saturday and lost in a hard fought battle, 6-4. This was much improved from their last game against Kimberley.

Thomas Meena scored the first goal from Tegegn Booth’s face-off. Calden Stanberry scored on a pass from Chase Kinsey and then Chase scored on a breakaway. Thomas Friday, February 7th, 6-8 pm scored the last goal. Kimberley scored 3 on power plays, *bring your lawn chair, limited seating* so our team out-played Kimberley when it was 5 on 5.

Submitted by Windermere Valley Minor Hockey Association

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.

Up to 30 for a reception and 15 for a boardroom

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

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

Please recycle this newspaper

250-342-7566 ~ info@artymgallery.com

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The Regional District of East Kootenay is accepting feedback on the Official Community Plan for Panorama until Wednesday, February 19.

The draft community plan, maps and additional information are available online here: https://engage.rdek.bc.ca/panorama-area-ocp.

The link also includes a comment box where residents are welcome to share their thoughts on the proposed plan.

February 6, 2020

The Columbia Valley Pioneer • 13

Jumbo municipality set to disincorporate

By Steve Hubrecht steve@columbiavalleypioneer.com The Jumbo Glacier Resort project is officially over, but several loose ends remain to be tied, and as of yet there are no crystal clear answers on either.

Jumbo Glacier Mountain Resort Municipality will be disincorporated, but exactly when and how that will transpire are not 100 per cent known, even to those involved in the process, since Jumbo will be the first B.C. municipality to be disincorporated in roughly a century.

The other loose end is the uncertain fate of the concrete foundations poured in the Upper Jumbo Valley by Glacier Resorts Ltd. in 2014.

During a Ktunaxa celebration marking the negotiated settlement between Glacier Resorts Ltd. and the Ktunaxa First Nation (which formally ended the proposed ski resort), Aq’am Chief Joe Pierre suggested leaving the foundations in place as a monument to financial waste and environmental destruction. But what will actually happen is still up in the air.

“As part of B.C. signing off on the agreements, the site was made safe and clean as required under the Master Development Agreement,” said Ministry of Forests, Lands and Natural Resource Operation communications director David Haslam. “The long-term future of the site, including the concrete foundation, will ultimately be determined through further future engagement and planning with various stakeholders.”

The land that comprises Jumbo Glacier Mountain Resort Municipality will eventually be returned to the Regional District of the East Kootenay, but the process may take some time and will likely involve a good deal

The Ministry of Forests, Lands and Natural Resource Operations will engage with stakeholders to determine the fate of the concrete foundations poured in thje Upper Jumbo Valley in 2014.

Photo by Pat Morrow of paperwork.

“Dissolving a municipality is a complex process and hasn’t been done since the 1920s. The Local Government Act requires residents to petition for disincorporation; because Jumbo does not have any residents it will likely require a legislation change,” said Ministry of Municipal Affairs and Housing spokesperson Marielle Tounsi in a statement provided to media. “We will continue to engage with the municipality, the Regional District of East Kootenay and local First Nations to ensure that their interests are included as we go through the disincorporation process.”

The last B.C. municipality to be disincorporated was the West Kootenay copper mining camp of Phoenix, which was incorporated as a city in 1900, then dissolved

just 20 years later, after copper prices collapsed following the end of the First World War. “We will work with the province to unincorporate as quickly as possible,” said Jumbo mayor Greg Deck.

“There will be some administrative work to do to cancel insurance policies, terminate contracts, close bank accounts, return all unspent funds to the Province, amend the RDEK membership, etc. We will help in any way we can. Much of it will need to be done at the provincial level.”

Ministry of Municipal Affairs and Housing senior planning analyst David Van Ommen will work with various partners and stakeholders to manage the legislative drafting, the transition and issues related to the disincorporation.

3RD ANNUAL

“The Art of Coffee” 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 Café 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.

All art must be submitted with the following information included:

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

SEEKING Columbia Valley Transit Advisory Commission Members Do you enjoy volunteering?

Do you believe in public transit?

If you answered YES, we might have an exciting opportunity waiting for you!

The Regional District of East Kootenay (RDEK) is looking for individuals interested in joining the Columbia Valley Transit Advisory Commission for a 2-year term ending February 28, 2022. The Commission provides advice to the RDEK on matters related to the Columbia Valley Transit System.

Commission members must reside within the Columbia Valley Transit Service Area. The Service Area stretches from Canal Flats in the south to Edgewater in the north with specific stops in Canal Flats, Edgewater, Fairmont Hot Springs, Invermere, Radium Hot Springs and Windermere.

If you are interested, please submit a letter of application and brief resume including reasons for your interest and related experience to Shannon Moskal, Corporate Officer, at the RDEK. IN PERSON at the RDEK Office – 19-24th Avenue South, Cranbrook VIA EMAIL to smoskal@rdek.bc.ca

BY MAIL to 19-24th Avenue South, Cranbrook BC V1C 3H8 Applications must be received by 9:00 am on Monday, February 24, 2020.

For information on the Columbia Valley Transit System, please visit www.bctransit.com/columbia-valley or call Shannon Moskal at 250-489-2791 or 1-888-478-7335.

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

14 • The Columbia Valley Pioneer

February 6, 2020

HERE TO SERVE YOU BUSINESS OF THE WEEK

SERVICES

SERVICES

SERVICE EXCELLENCE

North American Warranty

IN THE COLUMBIA VALLEY

SINCE 1991 The Columbia Valley Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors invites all members to attend the

Annual General Meeting Wednesday, March 11th, 2020 from 6 pm - 8 pm.

All members are encouraged to attend so that you have your input into your Chamber and the decisions that are made to move our business community forward. The meeting will take place in the Lions Hall, located in the Chamber building.

COLUMBIA VALLEY

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

Sales ~ Service ~ Installation

Judy: (250) 341-1903

valleysolutions@shaw.ca

House Checking and more!

Bob: (250) 341-5014

PROVIDING SOLUTIONS FOR THE VACATION HOME OWNER SINCE 2006

UNIVERSAL DOORS & EXTERIORS Arnold Scheffer 250-342-6700

unidoorext@live.ca • unidoorext.ca

Industrial ~ Commercial ~ Residential

UPHOLSTERY

WINDOW COVERINGS SHOWROOM • • • •

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

250.439.8074 goldenupholstery1960@gmail.com

Tire Sales and Installation

We give all students 15% off with valid student ID

CHAMBER OF COMMERCE For more information, please email our Executive Director, Pete Bourke, executivedirector@cvchamber.ca .

All Makes and Models

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

SERVICES

East Kootenay Plumbing Services & Renovations

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

KITCHEN CABINETS & COUNTER TOPS

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

Providing Certified Electrical Services

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

Dean Georgeson

Call for your FREE consultation and estimate

250-342-5516

WETT Certified

Available 24/7

Serving the Columbia Valley

Master Electrician FSR-Class A

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

20

Years of Experience

Red Seal Journeyman Plumbers/Gasfitters (B)

eastkootenayplumbing@yahoo.com 250-272-3374

(Servicing the Valley since 1999)

NEW SEWER CAMERA

• 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

East Kootenay Electrical Services Licensed Contractor

Bruce Dehart 250.347.9803 or 250.342.5357

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

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

N E W S PA P E R

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

Free Estimates

invermereelectric@gmail.com

Cell: 250.341.1342 Fax: 250.342.8733 E-mail: ekelectric@telus.net

ELECTRICAL CONTRACTING RESIDENTIAL • COMMERCIAL • INDUSTRIAL

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

Box 2206 Invermere, B.C. V0A 1K0

February 6, 2020

The Columbia Valley Pioneer • 15

Cinefest movie night to feature film about community Submitted by Cinefest Film Series The Last Black Man in San Francisco will be playing at Pynelogs on Tuesday, February 11 at 7 p.m.. For tickets, visit: https://www.columbiavalleyarts.com/event-type/ cinefest/.

Director Joe Talbot’s debut feature is an ode to the city of San Francisco, rooted in the real-life experiences of his childhood best friend, Jimmie Fails. Though Fails is a

non-actor, Talbot cast him in the lead role.

This film tells a story of the city through the eyes of a fictionalized version of Jimmie, who is obsessed by the idea of reclaiming the Victorian house his grandfather built. This house is where he grew up, and was the last real home he had before his family broke apart.

Jimmie spends most of his time hanging out with his best friend, aspiring playwright Montgomery, haunting the neighbourhoods they knew as children and watching old movies at the small house they share with Montgom-

ery’s nearly-blind grandfather.

Jimmie also visits and fixes up the house his grandfather built to keep it from falling into disrepair, much to the annoyance of its current owners.

Unexpectedly, the house is one day left empty and an estate dispute ensues. Jimmie and Montgomery seize the opportunity to move in and live out a make-believe home life.

This is a story about transformation, friendship, resilience and what it means to belong to a community.

HERE TO SERVE YOU INSURANCE

INSURANCE

PHARMACY

LAMBERT-KIPP P H A R M A C Y ( 2 0 1 9 ) LT D .

INSURANCE AGENCIES LTD.

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

www.kootenayinsurance.ca CONTRACTING

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

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

Come in and browse our giftware

Irena Shepard, B.Sc. (Pharm.)., Émilie Lamoureux, Pharm D., Laura Kipp, Pharm D. Your Compounding Pharmacy

Open Monday – Saturday, 9 a.m. - 6 p.m. and Sunday, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

1301 - 7th Avenue, Invermere

250-342-6612

CONTRACTING

CONTRACTING

Dale Elliott Contracting • • • • •

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

Specializing in all heating, electric, gas and wood.

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

• Trusses • Engineered Floors • Wall Panels

250-341-7098 Invermere, B.C.

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

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

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

CONCRETE

CARPET CLEANING

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

Your Local

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

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

16 • The Columbia Valley Pioneer

February 6, 2020

P IONEER C LASSIFIEDS

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

ANNOUNCEMENT

ANNOUNCEMENT

ANNOUNCEMENT

CHEERS & JEERS

CHEERS & JEERS

COMMERCIAL SPACE

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.

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.

Cheers to the gentleman who skis with his big poodle on the whiteway. You ALWAYS do the poop bag clean up. Jeers to other dog owners - just because your dogs are off leash does not mean their poop is invisible. If you let them run, then for goodness sake, clean up. At the very least always have poop bags and clean up any and all dumps, even if it’s not your dogs. Like the whiteway? Really, our lovely lake deserves better respect from the dog owner community.

Cheers to all the Cheers. Now, may we have a Jeers or two.

Balance people!

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

S

Cash for gold and silver! Also buying coin collections, old money old jewelry Contact Todd 1-250-864-3521.

OBITUARY

S

Clarke, Ronald Victor, QC 1937 – 2020 With heavy hearts we announce the peaceful passing of Ron Clarke of Windermere, B.C., on Thursday, January 30th, 2020 at the age of 83. Along with his loving wife Rosemary of 43 years, Ron is survived by his four stepchildren, Bruce (Celia), Brian (Tiffany), Shana and Kathleen, five grandchildren Chad, Daniel, Bryn, Mackenzie and Jorja and two sisters Joan and Shirley. Ron was predeceased by his parents, Edith and Victor Clarke.

Ron was born in Montreal, Quebec on January 6th, 1937. He received his BA from Dalhousie University in 1957 and Bachelor of Laws in 1960. After Articles with Macleod Dixon, he was admitted to the Law Society of Alberta in 1961 and awarded a Queen’s Counsel in January of 1998.

After a fun-filled few years of bachelorhood, he bit the bullet and bravely jumped with both feet into marriage with Rosemary and her four children.

Following work on oil & gas matters for several years he switched his focus to condominium law.

Oodles of Cheers to the groomers at Panorama Ski Hill for the awesome skiing we have been enjoying.

CHEERS & JEERS Cheers to Kate and Kelly in Canal Flats. You have given a lot to our community, and we see you and appreciate you. Even in the face of negativity and stress, you still take the higher road and even speak kindly about those who hurt you. We’re lucky to have you!

Sunny happy Cheers to the liftees at Panorama Ski Hill. You make the experience of skiing fun for so many of us.

Cheers to the DOI for considering the hiring of a climate change coordinator. An important step in moving forward on climate change issues.

Cheers to Mariska and Corinna at Quality Bakery. Even though there was a miscommunication on my cake order you two came through in a pinch. The cake looked great and tasted even better!

Cheers to Jason of Woody’s Plumbing for being a real hero in our books. As a result of your quick response to our telephone call and coming to our house within 2 hours to check out the water damage in our kitchen, you saved us from having a flood because of faulty fixtures. This isn’t the first time you have come to our rescue. You are a big asset to the valley.

Honoured to receive this award for 2019 sales performance!

IT’S BACK!

Dairyland milk is once again available at…

In 1966 he formed a very successful law partnership with his longtime friend Derek Jones and in 1969 they were joined by Vic Burstall and Art Coady. He semi-retired in 1982, then reentered law practice in association with Moore, O’Connor, Martin, Iredale & Maitland, moved to Donahue Rondeau and then carried on a private legal practice in association with Heather Bonnycastle.

Ron finally retired from active practice in 1998 and in April 2002 he and his wife retired out to the Windermere Valley where he occasionally carried on legal and business activities on a limited scale. He finally put down his pen in April of 2016.

Ron had many passions throughout different stages of his life including a love of fine wines, Cuban cigars, the US Civil War, and single malt scotch. Moving to the Windermere Valley also opened a whole new world for him as he took up golf, became active in several environmental groups and thoroughly enjoyed his “coffee with the boys” almost daily. One of his greatest joys were the yearly cruises with his wife to sunny climates and his “bucket list” freighter trip around the world.

A Celebration of Life will be held in Windermere later in the spring. He will be buried near Kingston, Ontario in a family columbarium. In lieu of flowers memorial donations may be made to a charity of one’s choice.

“The arts are not a luxury but a necessity. A life without art is not life but merely bland existence.” - David Bly “When someone you love becomes a memory, the memory becomes a treasure.” – Author Unknown Arrangements entrusted to McPherson Funeral Services.

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

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

SUITE FOR RENT 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. $1,300/mo available March 1st. 250-270-9080.

Bachelor suite, available March 1st, $700/mo includes cable, internet, heat and lights.

Partially furnished, N/S, N/P, no partiers. Three blocks from downtown, 250-342-6178.

BUYING OR SELLING

Cheers to anyone who has been struggling over the winter and is still here. You’re brave and amazing. Keep going!

A huge Cheers to Max Helmer Construction for providing sand for our very icy driveway after I fell and injured my back. Much appreciated!

Cheers to my honest town.

Moved my car, forgot and left keys in it, all night and voila, this morning sitting just where I left it. There is more good than the opposite. Which pot am I watering ...? I celebrate and appreciate the quite good.

CALL 250-341-1202 Big Cheers to Calvin in Sobeys’ gerrytaft.ca meat department. Always a Rockies West Realty friendly smile and always willing Independently owned and operated to custom cut your choice of meat. Did a nice prime rib for LOST AND FOUND me this morning to just the right size. Much appreciated!

LOST: Set of keys on or near Cheers to the new tea shop Lake Windermere with a yellow in Invermere. Great selection tag on it and about seven keys. and you can refill your own Phone 250-341-7092 if found, reward offered. container!

Cheers to Valley Cleaning! My home has never been so clean.

HUGE CHEERS to the Edgewater SENIORS for once again giving the valley another wonderful Soup Day. Yummy as always.

CONDO FOR RENT 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.

MISC. FOR SALE

STORAGE

Top Quality Hay Round bales.

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

NEWHOUSE STORAGE Various sizes available.

Now with climatecontrolled units.

Call 250-342-3637.

Drolet Escape 1800 EPA wood stove with fan for sale. Heats 1900 sq. ft., $500 O.B.O. 250342-9582.

February 6, 2020

The Columbia Valley Pioneer • 17

ACREAGE FOR SALE

SERVICES

LESSONS/TRAINING

HELP WANTED

ACREAGE FOR SALE

Spic N Span Cleaning Services Office cleaning.

Now taking new clients.

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

Rocky Mountain Swim Lessons is open for registration. Sign up now for the weeks you want. Red Cross Swim Lessons, Bronze Level Lifesaving Lessons and DIVING lessons.

Learn to swim at Fairmont Hot Springs Resort. Email info@ rockymountainswimlessons.ca.

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.

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

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

250-342-5245 b.brownjohn@gmail.com FIREWOOD Support Rockies Hockey firewood. Contact email cvrockies.firewood@gmail.com or call 250-342-1624 for more info or to place an order.

Split Fir. We deliver. Call 250342-5481. 127 Westside Rd.

HELP WANTED

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!

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 Local Electrical Contractor looking for Journeyman and Apprentice Electrician.

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

Retail Food Management Level - Full-time Culinary and Food Service Position.

Aggressive compensation with high season bonus package. Brand new company and facility.

Extremely high-volume location. Positive upbeat career orientated individuals given absolute preference.

Call 250-342-5402 or email resume to kgtltd2020@gmail.com.

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.

SERVICES

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

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

Opportunities for all positions – Night time Supervisors, Clerks and Cashiers.

Above average wage packages. Both full and part-time positions available. High season bonus packages from May through September for all staff. Pleasant and customer service-oriented individuals please. Call 250-342-5402 or email resume to kgtltd2020@gmail.com.

EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY

LEE’S SMALL ENGINE REPAIR SHOP

Radium Husky

HELP WANTED

$ 99

9

+ Tax

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

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).

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 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.

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.

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

18 • The Columbia Valley Pioneer

February 6, 2020

The Eva Joseph Learning and Cultural Society is seeking

Early Childhood Educators 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.

Are you passionate about connecting people with nature?

If so, the Wings Over the Rockies Nature Festival is seeking a

Festival Planner Liaising with the volunteer board the festival planner develops one of the largest nature festivals in Canada. The planner is a part-time, paid contract for approximately 600 to 700 hours annually (remuneration rate to be negotiated). st

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.

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.

WE ARE HIRING! Full-time Permanent Positions Sunchaser Vacation Villas is all about providing excellent vacation experiences to the families that visit us year after year; and we need talent to provide it! We are currently hiring the following positions:

Front Desk (1 year-round) Must present a personable, helpful, and professional image.

Front Desk is responsible for checking guests in and out of the resort, entering information into the system and printing reports required for their shift.

House Man (1 year-round) Must hold a valid B.C. drivers licence in good standing; must be able to lift up to 50 lbs. Duties include but not limited to making delivery requests to specified guest rooms; maintaining driver logs and completing pre-trip inspections; stripping linens from guest rooms and carrying and delivering to laundry; carrying and delivering supply bins to each building.

Recreation Coordinator (1 Year-Round)

Must be personable, creative and possess great customer service skills. Duties include but not limited to creating and leading indoor/outdoor activities while projecting a fun and responsible attitude.

Apply by Friday, February 21 , 2020 to: wingsovertherockies@gmail.com . For more information on the Festival & Planning position: www.wingsovertherockies.org

Safe Homes Program Support Worker Casual On-Call Position 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.

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.

Application deadline: Ongoing until filled.

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

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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.

The Columbia Valley Arts Council is looking for an experienced manager who can steer our organization towards a future of continued sustainability and growth.

Executive Director Reporting to the Society’s Board of Directors, the Executive Director will lead and support our diverse arts and cultural activities and build awareness of the benefits that come through a vibrant cultural community. Focussed on achieving the organization’s vision, goals, and objectives, we are looking for: an initiator; an excellent communicator; an advocate; and one who believes in and works within solid community partnerships. As well, sound operational and organizational skills are required to manage the Pynelogs Centre (e.g. as Curator of the Gallery and Gift Shop) as well as rentals and contracts which includes a seasonal cafe.

Candidates must be able to work well within a not for profit realm. The successful candidate will be able to exhibit relationship skills that are politically sensitive, working with the Society’s Board of Directors, committees and volunteers and as required, with elected officials and government administrators.

The successful candidate will also have strong financial, governance, and strategic planning skills.

We invite applications from those who have: • Administrative and leadership skills for: financial/budget processes; supervision of human resources (paid, contract and volunteer), building maintenance and lifecycle, project management, and file management - including documenting, tracking and reporting • Experience in the planning and delivering of a broad range of cultural programs, events and festivals • Experience in developing applications for proposals and grants to multiple funding agencies • Excellent communications and marketing skills, including experience with web and digital media tools • Proven success building community support through public relations, advocacy and fundraising • Experience working with Boards of Directors in the development of effective operational policies and best practices Qualifications: • A Bachelor’s degree, or relevant diploma – and/or an equivalent combination of education with a minimum of 5-10 years experience related to the management of arts and culture in the Not-for-Profit Sector.

Remuneration: $50,000 - $55,000 plus a Benefits Package Further information on the Columbia Valley Arts Council is available on the Council’s website at www.columbiavalleyarts.com . Please send your resumes to cvachrcommittee@gmail.com .

We offer competitive wages and a great working atmosphere, apply now! Please send your resume with a cover letter to: Email: jobs@sunchaservillas.ca Fax: Attention: Employment at 1-250-345-6166

www.rcbc.ca

If you have any questions contact Lisa Zavitz, President at 403-512-9931. The deadline for applications is February 27th or until the position is filled. Only short-listed candidates will be contacted.

RECYCLING COUNCIL OF B.C. MEMBER

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

February 6, 2020

The Columbia Valley Pioneer • 19

FAITH New neighbours and friends

By Pastor Murray Wittke Valley Christian Assembly Do you remember the sleepy little town of Mayberry from 1960s TV? I pretty much grew up there.

I was Opie, running barefoot with my willow stick fishing pole or staring wide eyed into a robin’s nest.

My friends came from traditional families with old fashioned values. Most folks went to church on Sunday, and Barney, Floyd, Otis, Thelma Lou and Aunt Bee were our neighbours. Like Mayberry, we rarely met anyone who looked, sounded, or thought different than us. Life was slow and nothing much ever changed. We felt secure and we liked it that way.

The rural simplicity and social uniformity of my home town shaped my values, sense of right and wrong, and understanding of life. These became the glasses through which I looked at the world. Everything was clearly defined in black and white. There were no shades

of grey. Things were right or wrong, good or bad. Then I left Mayberry.

Outside my community I discovered a world filled with exotic sights, sounds, tastes, and smells. Different religious beliefs, political opinions, cultural traditions, value systems, and lifestyles were everywhere. Looking through my black and white lenses this unfamiliar Technicolor world appeared dangerous. I felt threatened, vulnerable and alone.

Growing up I’d been taught to love my neighbour as myself. That meant extending kindness, courtesy, generosity, patience, compassion, understanding, and respect to everyone I met. Back in Mayberry that was easy because my neighbours all looked, sounded, and thought like me. But out here who was my neighbour? Who could I trust? Like Opie I’d been warned “don’t talk to strangers.” Now that’s all I could see.

Then someone very, very different showed me love.

My fears were calmed, my heart changed, and my eyes opened. Instead of living with suspicion and mistrust now I’m seeing folks like He does, through eyes of love.

I’m meeting and getting to know my new neighbours.

We’re becoming friends and I’ve discovered that despite our many differences beneath the surface our hearts are much the same. I’m no longer in Mayberry but I’m enjoying the change. Vive la difference!

Lynx caught on film

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

Worship Service & K.I.D.S. Church Sunday, February 9, 7 p.m.

Sing and Celebrate 326 10th Avenue, Invermere 250-342-9535 • www.lwac.ca

WINDERMERE VALLEY SHARED MINISTRY ANGLICAN-UNITED Christ Church Trinity (111-7th Avenue, Invermere) Every Sunday at 10:30 am All Saints (4829 Cordillera Avenue, Edgewater) Will resume on April 12 (Easter Sunday) at 9 am, and then 1st and 3rd Sundays of the month at 9 am until December.

St. Peter’s (4703 Kootenay Street, Windermere) St. Peter’s is a seasonal only church - 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

!

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.

Wayne Noga said he “spotted these guys in the pass December 28, near the B.C./ Alberta border” before they disappeared back into the woods.

Submitted photo

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

February 6, 2020

Rockies stamp ticket to KIJHL playoffs Submitted by Columbia Valley Rockies The Columbia Valley Rockies had a home and home series with the Golden Rockets going into this weekend. Both teams had a lot on the line. With two wins the Rockies could clinch a playoff spot, and the Rockets were five points out of the fourth and final playoff spot.

The Rockies strode into the plywood palace in Golden very confident. They were prepared and ready to answer the bell. The first period your Rockies dominated play and clearly outshot the home squad. However, all they had for the effort were a couple of loud goalpost clangs as the puck would not go into the net. Close but no scoring in the first.

The second period saw the home team find their legs a little and start a bit of a push back, but Bretton Park in goal for your Rockies stood firm. The Rockies were able to open scoring on a creative pass by Colby Phillips giving Zachary Dovichak a wide open net and an easy basket. Rockies up by 1. Less than a minute later on a beauty tic tac toe who buried for the doe saw Hunter Rambow feed Gavin Fleck who found Eric Lloyd for the money shot. Rockies up by 2.

Golden found a bit of pushback on the power play eight minutes later and then followed up less than a minute after that tying the tilt at 2. Then the play of the game occurred as Gavin Fleck was coming off the ice; he skated over the centerline and dumped a high lob into what should have been the corner. The Golden goalie reached up with his blocker and put it in his own net! Fleck gets the game winner as the Rockies go up 3-2. For good measure with three minutes left in the game Mason Robinson showed his stick skill by finding a speeding Hunter Rambow who buried it past the home team breaking the hearts of the Rockets and their fans. Your Rockies took this one 4-2 and moved within 2 points of securing a playoff spot in the 2020 playoffs.

On Saturday your Columbia Valley Rockies dominated the first period with the ice

clearly tilted towards the Golden end. However two bad breaks with just over a minute left in the period gave the visitors a 2-0 lead, although the Rockies outshot the intruders in their barn 16 to 4.

The second period showed the visitors with a little more jump in their step. At the 10:51 mark Mason Robinson found a streaking Colby Phillips who, to the thrill of the home town crowd, lit up the red light and put the Rockies on the scoreboard. Battles occurred back and forth with the period ending 2-1 in favor of the visitors.

In the third your Columbia Valley Rockies were determined to impose their will on the opponents. The period was clearly one in which the Rockies wanted to show everyone they deserved a place in the playoffs. Just over two minutes into the period Gavin Fleck on a short feed from Tristan Lambert fired a hard shot that handcuffed the Rockets’ goalie. As was the case the night before, the puck would flutter high into the air and land just behind the helpless defender then slowly roll into the cage behind him. Rockies tie it at 2. The crowd roared with its approval and there became a sense in the Eddie Mountain Memorial Arena something good was happening tonight. As the teams battled back and forth with some thunderous body checks and great scoring opportunities, those in the bleachers leaned forward in their seats in anticipation.

At the 11:33 mark of the third period Hunter Rambow found Jonathan Milligan breaking quickly up the wing and feathered a wonderful pass over. Milligan took no time and buried it deep in the twine behind the visitors’ netminder – Rockies lead 3-2.

Then your Rockies focused on holding the lead and smothering the opponents with their defense. The visitors pulled their goalie with two minutes remaining yet could not muster a shot on the Columbia Valley Rockies goalie Riley Wallace.

Rockies clinch a playoff spot with a two game winning weekend and extend their winning streak to three games.

The Rockies’ next home game will be Saturday, February 8 against the Kelowna Chiefs. Come on out, cheer your home town team on and show your Rockies pride!

Bird study could lead to more conservation

By Dauna Ditson dauna@columbiavalleypioneer.com Wildsight’s Columbia Wetlands waterbird study wrapped up after five years, arming researchers and citizen scientists with data to help them protect the birds that use the wetlands during their seasonal migrations.

Through the five-year study, 230 citizen scientists documented 163 bird species, including 30 atrisk species that use the wetlands.

“There are more at-risk bird species using the wetlands then was expected, and high numbers of at-risk grebes (such as the horned, western and eared grebes) tend to use shallow open water bodies like Mulligan’s Slough, Lake Windermere and Columbia Lake,” said biologist Rachel Darvill, who ran the study. “At a time where one million Biologist Rachel Darvill and citizen scientists study species are at risk of extinction and waterbirds.

Photo by Pat Morrow 2.9 billion birds have disappeared

from North America since 1970, it’s important to safeguard areas that are known to provide habitat for species at risk.”

The project’s goal was to support designating the area as an Important Bird and Biodiversity Area. Darvill said the designation, which is pending after a request in January, “would mean that the Columbia Wetlands would be on the world stage in terms of its value being recognized as irreplaceable habitat for birds.”

The designation would also be helpful for conservation planning and stewardship, she said.

The study showed three areas in the Columbia Wetlands are important resting and feeding areas during migration: the Columbia National Wildlife Area by Wilmer, the south end of Lake Windermere and the shallow wetlands between Brisco and Spillimacheen. Report recommendations include designating the latter two locations as bird refuges or sanctuaries.

“I enjoyed being able to work with so many amazing volunteers whose sense of awareness and appreciation for both birds and the wetlands increased as a result of participating in the project,” she said. “I also really loved being able to learn more about the birds themselves, (and) their habitat requirements in the wetlands. Being outside and observing birds in the wetlands is one of the things I enjoy most about my life.”

Bird facts from the study • American coot, American wigeon and mallard are the most common bird species in the wetlands during spring and fall bird migration.

• The Columbia Wetlands provides significant habitat to the trumpeter and tundra swans.

• There are at least 60 osprey nests in the Columbia Valley, 43 of which were seen in use last year.

Weekly Whiteway Report “This warm weather has been trying to melt our local trails, and has had some success,” said Shannon McGinty, Lake Windermere Whiteway Ambassador. Here is an update on what’s still good to access in the valley: 1. Lake Windermere is currently closed until conditions improve.

There are some larger holes in the ice around Kinsmen Beach that may extend further out.

2. Lake Lillian has just received a new classic track and a shined up skate ski lane. There are some spots where there has been water on the lake.

3. Junior Johnson has been groomed for skate skiing, and the classic track is set but has not been improved recently.

For the most-current updates, watch the Lake Windermere Whiteway Facebook page.