June 4, 2020 Vol. 17/Issue 23
Your Weekly Source for News and Events
The Columbia Valley Pioneer • 1 June 4, 2020
The Columbia Valley
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BRINGING SCHOOL TO STUDENTS
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A school bus took kindergarten teachers around Invermere last week to meet their new 2021 students. Carter, 5, was thrilled by the visit and the goodie bag they provided.
3
Learning services teacher Kim Erven-Culler said that since the future students couldn’t come to the school during the pandemic, the teachers would go to them.
ONLINE EXCLUSIVE • Number of students returning is a wild card as B.C. schools reopen
“We needed to alleviate some of the stress,â€? she said, adding that the visits allow the children to meet their teachers, to get excited about school and to feel more comfortable when their ďŹ rst day of school arrives.
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Photo by Dauna Ditson
Earlier this week some valley students headed back to school while others opted to continue their schooling at home.
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2 • The Columbia Valley Pioneer
June 4, 2020 Highlights of the @LiveColumbiaValley Instagram account, brought to you by the Columbia Valley Community Economic Development Office, a service of the RDEK.
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Above: The Agri-Park Farmers Market had another successful Wednesday night market. All visitors and vendors will be expected to maintain physical distancing and sanitation practices to stop the spread of COVID-19. Below: A Water Quality Advisory was issued for Edgewater; a State of Local Emergency was declared in Fairmont; and part of Highway 95 washed out near Spillimacheen. Right: The valley has a great complement of private campgrounds, RV sites and yurts. There are accommodations here for every style and budget – much nicer than this one.
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Rainbows bright Last week the valley was treated to a spectacular double rainbow that some interpreted as a sign that these pandemic times are about to get better. No word on whether any lucky locals found a pot of gold. Photos submitted by (clockwise from right): Ryan Garand, Katy Scotland, Dave McGrath and Janice Devlin.
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June 4, 2020
The Columbia Valley Pioneer • 3
VALLEY NEWS
GARRY PATTISON Chartered Professional Accountant ✓Financial statements ✓Audits, Review or Notice to Reader engagements ✓Tax – both corporate and personal ✓Bookkeeping, if required
Furor erupts over CastleRock mountain bike trails By Steve Hubrecht steve@columbiavalleypioneer.com As spring gives way to summer in the Columbia Valley, and thought turns more fully to outdoor recreation of the non-snow based (and socially distant) variety, turf wars are erupting over trails, mountain bike trails in particular. The latest tussle centres on the CastleRock trails, and follows hot on the heels of the still-ongoing kerfuffle over the Dry Gulch area mountain bike trails that began a month or so ago. Both of these echo the furor over the proposed Barbour Rock multi-use trails that, following months of debate through 2016 and 2017, were never built. The CastleRock mountain bike trails leapt to attention recently thanks to an online petition generating plenty of buzz on social media, and was even the subject of discussion by Invermere council at its most recent committee of the whole meeting. The petition, on change.org, was started by Panorama resident Owen Peters in support of his friend Simon Kessler. Kessler, an Invermere resident, and friends have been doing trail work, on and off, on pre-existing mountain bike trails (commonly called the CastleRock trails) running through Lot 4616 since 2006 including for the past four or five years in a row. As Kessler explained in a letter to Invermere council, and by phone to the Pioneer,
he was recently approached by a natural resource officer (acting on a complaint), informed that building recreation trails on Crown land (which Lot 4616 is) without official permission is illegal, issued a trespass notice, told he can no longer build there and informed that he has one month to ‘reclaim’ the sections of the trail he has worked on (i.e. return them to their natural state) or face a fine. The petition, which Peters has taken to local mountain biking trailheads, has garnered 1,700 signatures so far and seeks to have the CastleRock trails — which are currently unofficial “off-the-map” trails — legitimized. The petition outlines that designated official mountain bike and multi-use trails at Mount Swansea and at Lake Lillian (including the Johnson Trail) also began as unofficial trails that were then legitimized. In Kessler’s letter to council he asks if there is any way council can help in the situation. “There was already a trail there, where I’ve been working, long before I started working on it. People have been riding their bikes there a long time,” Kessler told the Pioneer. “But because it was old, it was kind of sketchy. Some parts were dangerous. My main purpose with the (trail) was to make it safe, a bit more family friendly, mostly because there seem to be quite a lot of kids that like to play around and ride their bikes there.” Continued on page 16 . . .
Flood evacuation in Fairmont By Dauna Ditson dauna@columbiavalleypioneer.com Flooding in and around Fairmont was so severe at the start of the week that Regional District of East Kootenay (RDEK) issued a state of emergency and RCMP officers were enlisted to evacuate residents. “RCMP are assisting with a door-to-door tactical evacuation in a localized area along Fairmont Creek south of Marble Canyon,” said information officer Loree Duczek in a news release. “Our primary concern is the safety of residents. The heavy rainfall has resulted in flooding and debris on both Fairmont Creek and Cold Spring Creek and we are asking everyone to stay away from the creek banks and avoid any roads that are compromised by flood water.”
Residents in the evacuation zone were asked to leave their homes and check in at the reception centre at the Kanata Inn. Eleven people checked in. Nine of them required accommodations while the remaining two found lodging with friends or family. As of Tuesday, June 2, the Fairmont Creek evacuation order was downgraded to an evacuation alert and residents of the 24 impacted properties were able to return home. The evacuation alert for Cold Spring Creek also remained in effect at press time. “It is important for people within the alert area to remain prepared to evacuate on a moment’s notice and follow updates from the RDEK in the event that conditions worsen and an order needs to be re-issued,” the RDEK advised residents on Tuesday.
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4 • The Columbia Valley Pioneer
June 4, 2020
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WINDERMERE COMMUNITY ASSOCIATION
Annual General Meeting Saturday, June 20th, 10 a.m – noon Community Hall 4726 North Street, Windermere. Please RSVP in order for us to plan for social distancing. Text us at 403-613-3217. All are welcome to attend.
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This past week, May 25 through May 31 the Columbia Valley RCMP responded to 78 calls for service. The following is a summary of some of the files our officers responded to. On Wednesday, May 27 at 9 p.m. Columbia Valley RCMP received a report of a possible impaired driver in a grey pickup travelling southbound on Highway 95 near Spillimacheen. An officer located the vehicle on Highway 93/95 near Invermere and conducted a traffic stop after witnessing the driver conduct an unsafe pass. While speaking to the driver the officer noted a smell of liquor coming from the driver’s breath as well as other indicators of impairment. The officer read a breath demand to the driver, which the driver refused to comply with. The driver received a 90-day immediate roadside driving prohibition for refusal in addition to violation tickets for failing to produce a driver’s license, passing unsafely and speeding against a highway sign. The vehicle was impounded for 30 days. On Saturday, May 30 at about 8 a.m. an officer was conducting patrols in Radium Hot Springs when he observed a white Chevrolet Lumina with expired insurance. A traffic stop was conducted and further checks revealed the driver had a suspended driver’s license. The driver was issued an appearance notice to attend court at a later date and a violation ticket for no driver’s license. On Saturday, May 30 at about 11:15 a.m. police attended a two vehicle collision on Swansea Road in Windermere. The driver of a Nissan Frontier had stopped in traffic waiting to make a left turn when a Ford Flex collided into the back of the Nissan. The driver of the Ford explained she did not notice the
vehicle stopped on the road due to the sun shining in her eyes. Neither driver was seriously injured. On Saturday, May 30 police received a complaint of vehicles parking on Westroc Mine Road in order to access the Swansea Mountain area. Police are reminding outdoor enthusiasts that Westroc Mine Road is an active mining road and parking is not permitted on the roadway. Bicyclists and pedestrians should exercise caution when in this area. On Saturday, May 30 at about 5 p.m. an officer conducted a traffic stop with a red Suzuki Grand Vitara on Highway 93/95 in Windermere. While speaking to the driver the officer noted a strong odour of liquor coming from the driver’s breath along with other indicators of impairment. The driver was arrested for impaired driving and submitted to a roadside breath demand. The driver blew two “fails” and as a result, the driver received a 90-day driving prohibition and his vehicle was impounded for 30 days. On Saturday, May 30 a resident of the Aspen Apartments in Radium Hot Springs reported the theft of two mountain bikes from the underground parkade. The bikes were described as a 2017 Liv Tempt (grey with light blue and yellow accents) and a 2010 grey Norco Big Foot. Anyone with information is asked to contact the Columbia Valley RCMP or Crimestoppers. Columbia Valley RCMP are happy to report the Radium Hot Springs Citizens on Patrol group will once again be active in their community. These volunteers conduct patrols using their personal vehicles and will be on the lookout for suspicious activities in an effort to keep their community safe. Anyone with an interest in volunteering with Citizens on Patrol can contact the Columbia Valley RCMP Detachment for more information.
Invermere reopening continues as playgrounds, splash parks open By Steve Hubrecht steve@columbiavalleypioneer.com The District of Invermere is continuing its COVID-19 reopening and, as part of the measures it is taking, it will be hiring a local community Restart Plan ambassador. Many other municipalities in the East Kootenay are also hiring community ambassadors. The role — which will likely extend from June through to the end of August — involves educating the public about the importance of physical distancing, providing information and answering questions about the B.C. Restart Plan, and encouraging the safe use of open amenities and services. The matter was discussed by Invermere council
during its Tuesday, May 26 committee of the whole meeting, with acting chief administrative officer Kindry Luyendyk explaining that in most other East Kootenay municipalities, local governments have filed the role by hiring a staff member they had previously had to let go of due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Invermere, she pointed out, has not cut any staff, and so will be advertising the job and hiring a new person for the role. Other reopening measures discussed at the meeting include the opening of playgrounds and splash parks, the decision of which is up to council, but which is happening in many places across B.C. in early June. Continued on page 5 . . .
June 4, 2020
The Columbia Valley Pioneer • 5
Pedestrian-only main street? By Steve Hubrecht steve@columbiavalleypioneer.com A car-free, pedestrian-only main street in downtown Invermere could be a possibility this summer. The idea generated considerable, and occasionally impassioned, discussion during last week’s Invermere committee of the whole meeting. Mayor Al Miller proposed turning 7th Avenue (Invermere’s main street) into a pedestrian corridor as a way to give more people room to move and be safe during the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic and as a way to help local businesses, which would be able to spill out onto a traffic-free main street. Miller added he thinks a pedestrian-only main street would generate quite a bit of buzz, and could become an attraction in its own right. He noted that other mountain communities — Banff and Nelson in particular — are doing the same thing this summer. “It will give people more room to socially distance,” he said, adding there would need to be discussion with the business community before going ahead with it. The proposal sparked diverse reactions from other councillors, some in favour, some opposed and some expressing caution about what exactly the measure is intended for. “I think it makes great sense,” said councillor Kayja Becker, pointing out that many of the shops on main street are so small that barely two customers are able to fit in them at once if proper social distancing protocols are being observed, and that if this is the case, a lineup of people may form outside popular shops on busy summer long weekend shopping days: something she opined that the district probably doesn’t want to see from a stopping-COVID-19 perspective. Allowing shops to spread out onto an empty main street would eliminate both those potential issues, she said. Councillor Gerry Taft was steadfast in his opposition to the idea throughout the meeting. “I think it would be a big negative for the town (to fully block off traffic on main street),” he said. “It’s a terrible decision.” He said he thinks giving some businesses the flexibility to expand out onto the main street parking spaces directly in front of them would be a better option and . . . ‘Invermere’ from page 4 Council agreed that Invermere should follow provincial norms, and Luyendyk pointed out that the district may need to put up some signs reminding people to bring and use their own sanitizer to apply after using the playgrounds and splash park, as it would be impossible for the district to sanitize these facilities after each individual use. The district office will also open
added he is concerned that this idea is “top down” in that it is coming from council rather than coming from the main street business community. “We don’t have 20 businesses coming to us ... we don’t have people asking for this,” said Taft. “We are leading this.” Miller replied that it is “not a top-down approach,” and that his proposal was always to consult with main street businesses. He added it would be silly not to at least check with business owners here, given that the idea has been strongly embraced in Banff and Nelson. “This is not a time to start an experiment on changing the downtown ... there are (downtown) businesses on the edge,” shot back Taft, adding he’s heard reports of businesses struggling to pay rent and dealing with landlords unwilling to be flexible and pursue the COVID-19 subsidy. “To do some grand social experiment on closing the downtown, this is not the time to do it.” Councillor Greg Anderson said that main street doesn’t have to be “all open” to traffic all the time, or “all closed” to traffic all the time. “Let’s look at different options,” said Anderson, adding he was unclear about whether the proposal was principally about dealing with COVID-19 or improving the downtown and increasing tourism, which he pointed out could exacerbate COVID-19. “To me, the motivation about this has to be about COVID and about safety ... not bringing in thousands of people,” he said. Taft piped up, stressing a point he’d hammered on at a previous meeting, that he feels Kinsmen Beach is a much bigger risk in terms of spreading COVID-19 than the downtown, adding he hopes district staff time is not being dedicated to canvassing the opinions of the main street business community about a pedestrian corridor on 7th Avenue at the expense of coming up with ways to maintain social distancing on Kinsmen Beach during busy summer days. “We need a plan to deal with 500 people on a crowded beach,” he said. Acting chief administrative officer Kindry Luyendyk assured Taft that Kinsmen Beach is much more of a priority for district staff than closing traffic on 7th Avenue. The discussion ended with staff set to check with business owners about a traffic-free main street. back up to the public in June. Luyendyk told council members that the district does not have a detailed plan completely in place yet, but that efforts are underway to get plexiglass, floor stickers and other items needed for the office to function and maintain social distancing. She added that as part of the plan some district staff may continue to work from home, and some may work in the office in rotating shifts.
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June 4, 2020
Pandemic archive seeks submissions By Katie Watt, Columbia Valley COVID-19 Public Archive
A message supporting the Hospice Society of the Columbia Valley With appreciation: When my husband and I moved to this valley we were so excited to be here raising our young son amidst the beauty of the mountains and the lake. It was a wonderful time in life… finally able to be here full time and building our business (after many years of commuting from a small town near Edmonton). We actually could have been anywhere in the world and been the happiest… as long as we were together. And then suddenly we weren’t… While on a family holiday to Vancouver Island our love story ended abruptly and unexpectedly. Our world fell to pieces and life as we knew it changed forever. Days that were once full of smiles, hugs and laughter were replaced by waves of grief and seemingly endless darkness. Without any warning and without the grace of a goodbye, I lost my best friend, husband and business partner. My son lost his father, and to some degree the mother that he once knew as I have not been the same since that day. Our entire lives and family identity changed overnight. People would ask, ‘How are you guys doing?’ … how do you answer that… ‘It hurts to breathe’, ‘I have never felt such weight in my soul’… ‘can’t put the pieces back together as I have yet to find them all’… instead I’d say, ‘we’re okay’. But we really weren’t okay… and some days it still feels like we never will be again. Grief is a very strange ride. While I had experienced loss before… nothing could compare to losing my husband and best friend. Nothing. Before this, I can remember saying to people, ‘I’m so sorry for your loss’… and I really meant it but I know now that I had absolutely NO idea. How could I? I do know that grief of this depth is something that I wouldn’t wish on my worst enemy. Two years later some days are beginning to feel okay… often followed by days where I feel like I am right back to that day. While people tried to support, especially in the first months, my grief felt so isolating. People sincerely cared and wanted to help, they just couldn’t understand. So many dark and lonely days and the energy of wearing the ‘I’m okay’ mask. I felt like I had tried everything to ‘get over this’… and then I discovered the safe haven of Hospice Society of the Columbia Valley. I joined a ‘grief support group’ which was so far beyond my comfort level and foreign to me to share something so personal with ‘strangers’. It was one of the scariest things I’ve ever done and also one of the best things I have ever had the courage to do. When I walked in that office the first day I was terrified… nearly didn’t even go. I’m so glad I did… it has been such a powerful experience. From the initial phone call and emails I knew that I was becoming part of something amazing. The warmth, compassion and understanding of this organization and the dedication of these people is so humbling. I felt the care and support of people that actually ‘saw through my mask’ to the pain underneath. It was incredible to form bonds with people that were also experiencing loss and while a very individual journey, grief is also an experience that can be unifying. Through discussion and working through the book by Dr. Wolfelt, Understanding Your Grief: Ten Essential Touchstones for Finding Hope and Healing Your Heart, we worked through activities and discussion each week. The facilitator, Daneve, has to be one of the kindest souls I know. While she companioned me through my grief, I am also honoured to call her a friend. Her expertise and heartfelt concern for others is inspiring. The people I met in that group and their bravery and power in showing vulnerability were humbling. An incredible experience that helped me see light in the darkest of days. There will still be many days of dark and while the pain may soften at times, it will never go away. Somehow though this group and the experience of walking this journey with others laughing, crying, trusting … slowly and gradually helped the pain to soften. Hospice and its people offered something that had been missing… hope and connection. It is so difficult to try to express my gratitude for this organization and my experience within it. Words simply cannot adequately capture my thoughts. Hospice is a safe place to be with people who truly care about others and work to ease their suffering. We are truly fortunate in this valley to have the Hospice Society. If you are experiencing loss, I can’t say enough about the power of reaching out. While it’s difficult, it isn’t nearly as difficult as enduring the pain of loss while feeling so alone. At a time in the world when people are feeling isolated and experiencing all degrees of loss, know that there are people that care and will honour you, your grief and walk with you through your journey. Hospice truly was an oasis… and a place where you won’t feel so alone.
www.hospicesocietycv.com
Editor’s note: We are living through a unique part of human history right now, and all of our personal stories are fascinating. Over the past couple of months, the Pioneer has sought out your stories of surviving and thriving during these pandemic days in our Alone Together series. This archive project will be a much more comprehensive look at how our community handled this strange time and will allow all of our experiences to be part of the public record. It’s impossible to tell where we might be as individuals and as a community in even a year from now, but it’s important for us to remember what we did, how we acted, and what we thought during this time, because ultimately it is these things that will decide what our ‘new normal’ will look like. The Columbia Valley COVID-19 Public Archive (CVCPA) aims to document community members’ experience with COVID-19 so we can one day reflect on the path we took to arrive in a post-pandemic world. Our reaction to COVID-19 has dramatically changed the way we live our lives; in this trying time, many of us are experiencing moments of hardship and challenge, but these experiences have been matched with a show of community support and unity as well. The CVCPA aims to give a platform for stories of hardship
and unity to be shared in the form of a public archive. We encourage community members to share their pandemic experiences with us in the form of letters, photographs, audio and video, or artwork. All submissions to the archive can be made through our website or by email. On our website, you will also be able to view the stories and images that illustrate other community members’ experience with COVID-19. If you would like to submit your own story but don’t know where to begin, start simple by telling us a bit about how your life has changed due to COVID-19, for example. Don’t feel the need to get it perfect, as you can make as many submissions as you like. We are accepting of all submissions, given that they relate to your own experience with COVID-19, and that they do not violate anyone’s privacy. We sincerely value any submission you make as your unique story is well worth sharing. This project will serve as a valuable relic for current and future community members to reflect on in the future. While what the outcome of COVID-19 will be is unpredictable, this project will allow us to look back at the path we took to arrive at a post-pandemic world, whatever that path may be. Submissions can be sent to cvcovid19archive@gmail. com Submissions can also be made and viewed on our website at columbiavalleycovid-19publicarchive.org
Please try kindness and compassion Dear Editor, Times of adversity can amplify the worst and the best in all of us. I thought we were doing great as I began to help shop for others. Together, we managed to uphold the community’s spirit and reputation well with kindness and respect, but as COVID-19 restrictions continued, that eroded into acts ranging from rudeness to hatred, shaming and harassment amongst locals and second homeowners, especially targeted at Albertans. These acts have reached a level of hurt deep enough for generous financial donors and fundraisers to consider ending their support to our valley. Before we act out of fear and anger, please consider how this will affect locals when there’s not enough donations, income from taxes and fees collected, volunteer hours, tourism spending, etc. to: provide the amenities we now enjoy in our trails, parks, and programs; access quick help or medical equipment when you/your loved one need(s) it; supply the quality and
volume of generous donations Albertans bring to our treasured thrift store that provides so much funding for our hospital, as well as joy and affordability for locals; fund all the social venues we’ve been able to attract and enjoy; and supply enough food for everyone who needs the food bank COVID-19 is not any one person’s fault, but an issue that was suddenly thrust upon all of us, causing all kinds of inequity that we did not choose to create. What will our valley look and feel like when COVID-19 is over? Will we recede into the shadows from the hurt and see more businesses closing, or thrive again with hope and community love? You get to make it happen either way. Albertans: please know that the acts of a few are not reflective of the majority in our paradise. We truly appreciate your generosity and contributions to our economy and our valley as much as we value our generous locals. Please reconsider any negative Continued on page 7 . . .
The Columbia Valley
CANADIAN COMMUNITY NEWSPAPER AWARD 2013
Pioneer
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Emily Rawbon Graphic Design Ext. 104
Amanda Murray Office Administrator/ Sales Ext. 101
June 4, 2020 . . . ‘Kindness’ from 6 decisions during this highly emotional time. Locals: if you are one of the few that acted out of anger or fear, you can always apologize in person or leave an apology on their car/doorstep/driveway. It’s not too late. Locals as well as non-locals choose to comply/not comply with the recommendations, and some due to good reasons. Please don’t bite the hands that help feed you and our community. If you need to educate someone on valley protocols, do so respectfully. Maybe you’ll learn they have a good reason for what they’re doing/
The Columbia Valley Pioneer • 7 not doing; don’t assume. Everyone deserves respect and dignity when opinions differ. Be grateful for the health we do have. Please try kindness and compassion during adversity, so we can go back to being known as the friendly, welcoming paradise we all love, that made it to the Guinness Book of World Records! I believe that with love, hope and gratitude, we can overcome this together. Suzanna Lee, Invermere
Love from a safe distance Dear Editor, I’m responding to Megan Darling and her letter “Albertan calls for respect” that was published last week. We love you too. We really do. I don’t know one local who has ill wishes towards Albertans. So far we’ve had very few cases of this horrific COVID. And I think all we are asking is to do our very best to keep it this way. Recently a doctor from New Brunswick unknowingly infected other people because he failed to self-isolate when he returned from away. All we ask is that if you are coming from an “in-
fected” place you isolate for the recommended two weeks (when coming to your summer home.) If you must go to public places, please wear your mask and sanitize every chance you get. I know the “rules” are vague and vary from place to place but if we all do our part we can get along whilst being safe. I do not have a second home in the city but if I did, I don’t think I’d be going back and forth. Our health specialists are recommending we stay home. We love you. We do. Alice Breeze, Brisco
Reading resumes in Radium
On March 16, 2020, the Radium Library shuttered its doors for an indefinite period of time in an effort to curb the spread of COVID-19. Over the past few months we have been working with libraries across the province to find safe ways to bring resources to our patrons during these difficult times. Even with closed doors, we have been operating as a virtual space, working to bring free digital resources to our patrons’ home computers and smart devices. Our library has developed a plan for the phased restoration of services based on the health and safety guidelines provided by WorkSafe BC and the provincial government. We will be integrating services in accordance with our plan. As of May 12, we reopened our book drop to accept returns. Returns are optional and due dates will continue to be extended until further notice. All returned material will be quarantined for the recommended period of 72 hours and then sanitized before it is re-shelved. Currently, we are phasing in contactless services to safely get books back in the hands of our patrons. On May 19, 2020, we officially launched our Library Takeout service. To start, this service will be offered three days per week on Tuesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays. Between the hours of 11 a.m. and 3 p.m., patrons
can call, email or use our website to place orders for curbside pickup. All orders are to be picked up at a scheduled time at the designated area in front of the building. The library facility itself remains closed to public access at this time. The health and safety of our staff and patrons is of the utmost importance, and we thank you for your understanding and patience as we work to establish our new normal. Library takeout service details: • Service available: Tuesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays from 11 a.m. - 3 p.m. • You can place hold requests online using our library catalogue, by email, or by calling us at 250-347-2434. Interlibrary loans are not available at this time. • Library staff will contact you to schedule an appointment for pickup. The process may take a few days. • Items will be automatically checked out by library staff. Loan periods have been extended to six weeks. • When you have arrived for your scheduled pickup time, please wait at the designated sandwich board. A staff member will place your order on the table/bench at the front of the building. Please respect physical distance guidelines and remain six feet apart. • Items can be returned in the book drop. This week’s column was written by Jacqueline Wagner, director of the Radium Public Library at 7585 Main Street West.
Move it for Hospice
Hospice Week June 21 - 27, 2020 The Hospice Society of the Columbia Valley is challenging participants to Walk, Run, Bike, Hike, Golf etc. in memory of a loved one.
Let’s Let’sMove Moveit, it, Move it, Move Move it, Moveit! it!
There are many more activities planned for the week such as arts sale and Open House at the Hospice office. For more info, or to register visit:
hospicesocietycv.com Registrations open June 5th! CO LU M B I A VA L L E Y P I O N E E R F E AT U R E P U B L I C AT I O N
Congratulate
the grads of 2020
This feature is designed to congratulate our grads for their achievements and to wish them luck on their future endeavors. By advertising in this feature you have helped make it possible for The Pioneer to produce this memento for our graduates of 2020.
Business Card
Full Banner
(2.5” wide x 2” high)
(10.33” wide x 2” high)
$75 + GST Half Banner
$200 + GST Half Page
(5.08” wide x 2” high)
(10.33” wide x 6” high)
$105 + GST
$325 + GST
N E W S PA P E R
Ad deadline: Wednesday, June 10th Pioneer Publication date: Thursday, June 18th
For more information contact Amanda Murray at 250-341-6299, ext. 101 or e-mail amanda@columbiavalleypioneer.com to participate.
8 • The Columbia Valley Pioneer
June 4, 2020
La Galeria II A Unique Shopping Experience
OPEN DAILY!
We have lots of hand sanitizer All come in a variety of scents made with therapeutic grade oils.
60 ml Travel Bottles ...........................................................$6 60 ml Mister Bottles ................................................. $7.95 120 ml Mister Bottles .................................................... $12
Fairmont Plaza, 5 5019 Fairmont Resort Rd. 11 am – 5 pm • 250-345-6807
Shifting Shades of Color by Cassidy Clark, grade 8.
Photo submitted
Student art show, contest for imagining 2021 festival
Arts in the valley Here are some of our safety measure
OPEN WEEKENDS 11-5
GELATO
en
ur
Stol
ch
PROUDLY SERVING
Ch
-Doors pinned open so no touch needed -Plexiglass partition in clubhouse -Limited people in clubhouse -Clubs & balls sanitized after each use -Shallow cups to limit touch -Go-karts cleaned with sanitizer after use -Extensive staff safety training -Lots of space to physically distance
REQUEST FOR QUOTE Hauling for Matress Recycling The Regional District of East Kootenay is looking for Quotes on the following: 1. A 53ft monthly trailer rental at the Columbia Valley Landfill for the recycling of mattresses and delivery to recycling facility in Calgary AB. 2. A 53ft monthly trailer rental at the Cranbrook Transfer Station for the recycling of mattresses and delivery to recycling facility in Calgary AB. Quote and additional questions can be submitted to: Jim Penson Solid Waste Superintendent | Environmental Services – Regional District of East Kootenay jpenson@rdek.bc.ca
1-888-478-7335 | www.rdek.bc.ca
Sami Wackerle, executive director for Columbia Valley Arts Council The doors at Pynelogs Cultural Centre are remaining closed for a few more weeks while we ensure that we have everything in place to reopen safely. In the meantime we have been busy continuing to create new opportunities to experience arts and music in the valley from home. We have two great opportunities to kick June off. First, we are encouraging everyone to get comfortable at home with their choice of online gallery-viewing computer because Reach: The Annual David Thompson Secondary School Art Show is launching on our website on June 2. Artwork from our incredible and talented local high school students will be available for viewing and online purchase from June 2 to June 20, so don’t miss out. We’re offering curbside pickup from Pynelogs on all Reach art purchases making this the perfect time to support our young local artists while updating the look of that home that you have gotten so familiar with or the office that you are suddenly longing to be back at. Second, we have postponed August’s Invermere Music Festival until 2021. I, along with our music team of Patti Der-
byshire and Ben Cameron, have been taking advantage of this unplanned break in the action to discuss our wildest dreams for the festival’s return next year. Now, we would like to hear yours. Throughout June, we are asking you to share your dreams for our 2021 festival with us so we can see which ones we can make reality. There are three ways to do this: • Create your Imagine 2021 Music Festival Poster from home by visiting our website to learn how to create and share your dream for the festival with us. • Create your Imagine 2021 Music Festival Poster in person by dropping by Pynelogs on June 13 and June 20 between 11 a.m. and 2 p.m.. We will provide all the art supplies, hand sanitizer, and safely socially-distanced indoor and/or outdoor spaces you need to turn your dreams into poster reality. • Register for one of the Imagine 2021 Music Festival virtual discussion sessions through Zoom on June 15, 16, and 17 to chat with us and others about your dreams for 2021. Everyone who submits a poster or participates in one of our Zoom roundtables will be entered to win a four-pack of tickets to our 2021 festival where you may just find your dreams in action. Visit our website www.columbiavalleyarts.com for all the Imagine 2021 contest details, roundtable registration, and to access our online galleries. Stay safe and stay creative!
June 4, 2020
Columbia Valley
The Columbia Valley Pioneer • 9
C VID-19 UPDATE
A look at essential service providers in the valley Valley Foods improves operations By Breanne Massey Special to the Pioneer The definition of running a family business is all-inclusive for some representatives of the Columbia Valley community. AG Valley Foods owner Sydney-Anne Porter may run a family business with her immediate family members, but she views the team of staff working for her at the independently-owned grocery store as family too. “I feel like a mom to my staff and these (staff) are my kids,” explained Porter, while describing the safety measures that are now being enforced to mitigate the risks of COVID-19 at the independently-owned grocery store in the heart of Invermere. “I want to keep all of our staff and customers safe.” Porter purchased the centrally located supermarket in 1998 with the goal of offering the cleanest and friendliest option for locals to buy their groceries. Her sons, Eric and Greg Lapointe, joined the family business in the spring of 2006. While the family business is no stranger to continuous improvements at the storefront, the COVID-19 pandemic radically altered the way business is being done at AG Valley Foods in short order. “We’ve been pretty strict from the beginning,” Porter replied about the way the daily operations at AG Valley Foods are evolving in light of current events, “as soon as we could get some policies in place. “Initially, we only let one person per household in. Now, we have a full-time greeter and have relaxed that a little bit. We also have a full-time person going around sanitizing every handle and every surface in the store, and those are two jobs we never had before.” Overall, the support for the valley-based business has largely been positive, although there are occasionally some difficult customers who protest and refuse to follow the recently implemented safety measures upon entering the store. “The majority of our customers have been really receptive and really appreciative about the steps we’ve been taking to keep the community safe,” she explained, while indicating some members of the community have phoned in to personally thank her for being the change that helps shoppers feel safe.
Pharmacists promote positivity By Breanne Massey Special to the Pioneer A sunny disposition can go a long way when one must live with uncertainty and change. But Laura Kipp, a pharmacist and owner at Lambert Kipp Pharmacy, was proud to see how the Columbia Valley community has handled the COVID-19 crisis. “What I think people should really focus on is being kind to one another and doing the things that we know are working,” Kipp explained. “We have great numbers in B.C. and we need to keep doing what we’ve been doing, and be kind to people. I think our valley has done that. It’s been extremely heartwarming.” Staff pharmacists Irena Shepard and Èmilie Lamoureux have been on the frontlines, working alongside Kipp, to help support the Columbia Valley community throughout the pandemic. Overall, the experience has been positive and respectful. “I reiterate to the staff that they need to stay healthy and happy,” said Kipp, indicating that morale has remained high throughout the evolving situation of the novel coronavirus outbreak this spring. “Smiles are also infectious. We could easily focus on the negative of this situation
But approximately twice a week, the greeter at the door who reminds shoppers to clean their hands before entering the store and keeps count of the number of patrons on any given day to ensure that no more than 30 people visit at the same time, is confronted by individuals who refuse to use the hand-sanitizing station. “We’ve turned people away for not sanitizing their hands at the door,” Porter said, noting their patrons’ business is appreciated, but the safety of the community is her number one priority. AG Valley Foods has implemented directional tape to encourage social distancing among its shoppers, and installed plexiglass in front of the cashiers when the materials became available. “It took us a while to access some (plexiglass) because, all of a sudden, the whole country wanted some,” Porter explained. “We bought it from our local Invermere glass shop and we couldn’t get anybody to do the cutting, so my sons finally did it. “We got new counters put in last year, so we didn’t want to do it all willy nilly, and I think it definitely helps the cashiers feel safe.” In addition, a decision was made to order plastic bags into AG Valley Foods after some of the cashiers voiced their concerns about dealing with potential germs on reusable bags at the check-out counters. “People talk about nurses and doctors, but the cashiers are vulnerable too,” she said, adding the team seems “grateful” for the support. But one of the biggest challenges for the community-based grocer has been to keep frontline staff cared for during the ongoing pandemic due to issues ranging from immunocompromised health risks, fear of the COVID-19 pandemic or simply resigning to self-isolate with their families. When asked what keeps her awake at night, Porter simply replied: “extra staff” but remarked how “impressed” she was by the total number of teenagers in the community who have stepped up to the challenge while school closures have been in effect. “It’s a lot more youths than we usually have, and it’s made a big difference in our daily operations,” she said, while remarking it’s going to be an “awfully strange spring” without the iconic graduation march throughout the community for the class of 2020. “I really like to see the grad march because you get to see kids who have worked at the store or children from the community that we’ve watched grow up over the years, and it’s such a special community event,” she said. because anytime you turn on the news, there’s a lot of negativity out there, but we also need to focus on the good. Our province is doing a lot of good … we’re going to get through it.” She added the clients being served at the pharmacy and the storefront have been respectful and conscientious while tensions were running high. “I’m extremely proud of our area,” she said. “I think everyone’s been doing the right things.” The pharmacy has implemented safety measures such as markers outside the cashier and encourages the community to be mindful about practicing proper hygiene. In fact, Kipp has been impressed with how the community behaves at the storefront. “Everyone looks down the aisle and goes down a different one if there’s already someone in the aisle,” she explained, noting the only visible difference in daily operations has been that browsing the aisles has slightly decreased at the height of the outbreak. But there have been moments where the stress felt by the community has been visible. “I’ve certainly seen some anxiety, for example, with Albertans coming here,” Kipp explained. “Anxiety gets you nowhere. Stress isn’t healthy. We have to stay healthy, and there’s no point in stressing over what’s out of your control. Do what you can to keep your distance, wash your hands and we’ll all make it through this together.”
HANG IN THERE COLUMBIA VALLEY! Your Chamber is here to support you during this challenging time. Stay up to date with reliable, local information by visiting
www.cvchamber.ca
10 • The Columbia Valley Pioneer
Columbia Valley
June 4, 2020
C VID-19 UPDATE
Resource, Development & Advocacy
Call the crisis line 1-800-200-3003 for help Women’s Information and Safe Homes (WISH)
Are you in need of a safe home?
Keeping busy with little ones This weekly article is brought to you by Family Dynamix’s Early Years Coordinator where I will be sharing activity ideas to make it easier for parents to keep their kids busy and active. Wellness strategies will also be shared which are activities that can done by all family members. This continues to be a challenging time for both parents and children and having ways to relax and destress is important for our continued health. If you don’t have time to do these activities this week, cut them out and start a binder of activities that you can refer to when you need an idea. Enjoy! Check out this week’s activity and wellness ideas:
I can
calm down when I have BIG emotions…
1.
I can go for a walk
2.
I can push the wall
Nature Scavanger Hunt • Something fuzzy • Something straight • Something round • Something smooth • Something rough • Two different types of leaves
can count my breaths
4. I
can think happy thoughts
5. I
can trace my hand
• Something you think is beautiful
6. I
can hug a toy
• A pine cone
7. I
can ask for help
I have ten little fingers, And they all belong to me. I can make them do things, Do you want to see? I can close them up tight! I can open them wide. I can put them together. I can make them hide. I can make them fly high. I can make them go low. I can fold them like this and hold them just so.
1) Stretch your hand out like a star 2) Get the pointer finger of your other hand ready to trace your fingers up and down. 3) Slide up each finger slowly, slide down the other side 4) Breathe in through your nose and out through your mouth. 5) Put it together and breathe in as you slide up and breathe out as you slide down. Keep going until you have finished tracing your hand.
• Something that makes noise
3. I
I have ten little fingers
CALM DOWN WITH TAKE 5 BREATHING
Children’s Support Family Dynamix’s Early Years Coordinator is available to support families who have children ages 0-6 years old. Support could include age appropriate activity ideas, creating structure, parenting tips, developmental milestones, parent or child mental health support, potty training and anything in between. Every Tuesday from 7:30-8:30 pm Parent Chat will be offered via Zoom, which will allow parents a virtual opportunity to get together and chat about parenting challenges, successes, and reduce the isolation that we may be feeling. Please email Brianna at BSeel@familydynamix.ca or call 250341-8678 for the Zoom link. Remember to check out Columbia Valley Early Years Page on Facebook for daily acitivty ideas and weekly video posts to keep your kids busy!
Resource, Development & Advocacy
Family Dynamix acknowledges that we deliver services on the unceded territory of the Ktunaxa and Secwepemc people”
Supplies needed: • Cardboard or Paper • Scissors (adult helper) • Glue • Natural items found on a walk (examples: sticks, flowers, pinecones, grass, weeds, feathers etc.)
• Imagination! Use your supplies to create a self-portrait, a picture of your friends or make a family collage!
June 4, 2020
The Columbia Valley Pioneer • 11
Columbia Valley
C VID-19 UPDATE
Baking the best of the pandemic Submitted by Andrea Salzbrenner Andrea Salzbrenner, chef instructor at David Thompson Secondary School, encouraged her students to keep on cooking at home during the pandemic. “It’s during uncertain times like these that I really find comfort in the kitchen,” she said. “When my students share the loaf of bread, the special birthday cake, family dinner or exciting new creation in the kitchen, I am inspired and proud. The food we prepare, eat and share is often a reflection of ourselves, our environment and time. Andrea Salzbrenner I am happy to see so many of my students cooking for Photos submitted their families and taking care to prepare fresh, wholesome meals. Cooking and baking are about connection, exploration, creativity, learning, skills development, communication and fun. During this pandemic, I have worked to foster inspiration and provide opportunities for cooking and baking for my students at home. Sharing our culinary successes and challenges together has been a positive outcome of our increased time at home with our families.” Madeleine Sherk, grade 11, made shrimp and noodles with orange ginger sesame sauce. “Since the pandemic started my family has been finding ways to make life interesting. One of the things we started doing were Iron Madeleine Sherk
Sarah Davis
Ava Merrill
Chef Nights. Once a week when I make dinner I choose a protein and my dad chooses two mystery ingredients. The rules are simple. Both ingredients must be used and you must be able to taste them. I’ve had a lot of fun doing these and so far they’ve turned out really well,” she said. Sarah Davis, grade 11, made beignets. “Cooking and baking at home has played a big role in how I live my daily life. From cooking new types of pasta for me and my sister, to whipping up a full meal for my family, there is no better way to be spending my time. Overall, being able to cook at home has allowed me to further my skills while still staying safe. Each day I am stuck at home I always look for something to inspire my next delicious creation, and, as of right now, I am certainly excited for what’s to come.” Ava Merrill, grade 12, made basil and white cheddar scones. “I have been using the time at home to experiment with new recipes that look interesting to me. I have also been able to alter recipes that I already know and try new things with recipes that I already feel confident making. We are limiting our trips into town so I have learned to make recipes using ingredients that I otherwise wouldn’t because I had to be creative with ingredients that were already on hand,” she said.
Helping twentysomethings gain employment opportunities Submitted by Kootenay Employment Services
Resource, Development & Advocacy
Finding Childcare With many businesses being in the process of reopening, the concern of finding childcare is at the forefront of many parents’ minds. During the pandemic, a system was put in place by the B.C. government to support those needing childcare, and at this time the process still remains in place. Most daycares and day homes in our valley still remain closed, but there are several that are currently open and another few that hope to open in the near future. What if you require childcare? If you are an essential worker and you require care for your child(ren) ages 5 years and younger, follow the steps below: 1. Confirm your role as an essential worker: www.gov.bc.ca/essential-service-child-care 2. Request temporary emergency childcare: Forms can be accessed by calling 1-888-338-6622 and selecting Option 4, or online: www.gov.bc.ca/essentialservice-child-care 3. Wait to be contacted: Once your form is submitted, your local Child Care Resource and Referral (CCRR) centre will contact you to help find childcare in your area. Families are offered childcare spaces based on a tier system: Tier 1: Health and health services, law enforcement, social services, first responders and emergency response Tier 2: All other occupations not listed in Tier 1 but are included in the essential services list, including grocery workers and critical infrastructure service providers Tier 3: All other families not employed as an essential worker. It is important to note that childcare providers are not required to offer spaces to those who are not essential workers, although they may. The occupations that are classified under the tier system are updated as the B.C. reopening plan continues, so it is encouraged to keep checking where your occupation might fall in this list. Even if you are not a tier 1 employee, but require childcare, it is still important to complete the application form to show the degree of need in the valley and help the CCRR centre work with providers to fill that need. If you are an essential worker and have school aged children, contact School District 6 to discuss your childcare needs. If you need support in childcare related concerns, please contact Family Dynamix’s Early Childhood Coordinator at 250-341-8678. Families are also welcome to contact the East Kootenay Resource and Referral Centre at 1-800-661-2445.
Twentysomethings are among the millions of Canadians forced into unemployment by COVID-19 and signed up for federal aid, but they face a unique challenge moving forward. A higher number of people looking, and fewer available jobs creates an extremely competitive job market for twentysomethings who lack experience and qualifications. This complicates an existing barrier and does not ease the worry of paying rent and bills. Recent statistics show job losses from COVID-19 have hit our younger population hardest. The youth unemployment rate spiked at 16.8 per cent in March, the highest it’s been in years. Among the reasons is the fact those under 30 are at the epicentre of the large percentage of people who work in the service and sales industries. These sectors have either shut down or reduced hours during the pandemic as they require close contact with customers. The move into Phase 2 of reopening brings cautious hope but a heavy cloud of uncertainty remains. Employers are still riding out financial losses, financially on the hook to make modifications and desperately trying to recruit or re-hire staff. Kootenay Employment Services offers core employment programs including Aspire, a paid job prep and personalized job placement initiative for 17 to 29 year olds. Aspire includes four weeks of paid virtual in-class training led by a facilitator via Moodle, five days a week. Participants are given a living allowance and learn how to find and keep a job and obtain skills-training certification. Workshop topics are tailored to job hunting during a pandemic and include: identifying skills and strengths; labour market information; networking; guest speakers; computer software training; resumes and cover letters; employer panels; workplace feedback; interview skills; point of sale; digital marketing; coping/conflict management skills; career development; food service skills; budgeting and time management. Aspire also provides access to skills training certificates for First Aid, Foodsafe, Serving It Right (ages 19+) or alternatives. It also includes a 12-week job placement opportunity with job supports and job coaching personalized to the career path. In a nutshell, it’s a chance to get paid to learn and gain an edge to help land a job. Aspire starts June 22 in Invermere. Spaces are limited and eligibility criteria applies. For more information contact Kootenay Employment Services at 250-3416889 or visit kes.bc.ca. Funding provided by the Government of Canada through the Canada-British Columbia Workforce Development Agreement.
12 • The Columbia Valley Pioneer
June 4, 2020
Radium’s beloved bighorn sheep herd on the decline; advocates say safer streets needed By Breanne Massey, with files from Dauna Ditson The beloved bighorn sheep herd that resides in and around Radium has gained attention from local politicians and environmental stewards. Columbia River-Revelstoke MLA Doug Clovechok recently facilitated a community discussion via Zoom about advocating for the overall health of the herd, minimizing the risk for motor vehicle accidents (MVA) where drivers collide into animals and to form a working group to make continuous improvements on Highway 93/95. “This was on our radar before COVID-19 came to us,” said Clovechok, noting that members of the community had raised concerns about the plight of the sheep in Radium. “It’s such an iconic species and to our area.” Clovechok added that the numbers are also decreasing due to natural causes. “My dream would be Sheep take a rest on the golf course. to approach the federal government to see if they would be interested in taking care of some infrastructure to build an overpass … this is exactly where the community can get together with the ministry to find a solution.” In addition, RCMP Sgt. Darren Kakuno confirmed that the total number of collisions putting the herd at risk were not well-known within his team due to the reporting structure of these incidents. (Collisions are also reported to conservation officers.) “Collisions with sheep would be recorded as an animal file, so I wouldn’t be able to differentiate between a collision with a deer or even a dog complaint,” Kakuno said when statistics were requested from the RCMP. “Also, not all collisions with animals are reported to police unless there is significant damage to the vehicle, or if an animal needs to be put down. When we do receive a report of a collision with a sheep we report it to Kent Kebe in Radium.” Kent Kebe, the chairperson of the working committee for bighorn sheep advocacy, said 10 sheep have died from collisions so far in 2020 and five more are known to have been injured. He speculates that many others have also been hurt on the steep stretch
of the Radium hill that leads into the village. The Radium herd has decreased from over 250 sheep down to 130, and he wants the remaining to sheep to be safer on the road. “The speed of drivers is no doubt a major factor in sheep fatalities,” Clovechok said, while expressing interest in radar detectors to show animals that are near the road. “It costs money to do all of this stuff, but people are talking about it and usually when smart people get together and start together, things start to happen.” The Village of Radium Hot Springs has been engaged to participate in the working group so that the municipality is onboard and in the loop about the ongoing work being done. “The sheep are iconic and very important to the community, Parks Canada and the visitors,” Village of Radium Hot Springs mayor Clara Reinhardt replied to the Pioneer via e-mail. “We will continue to work with the stakeholders to provide the safest environment we can.” Councillors Mike Gray File photo and Todd Logan represented the Village of Radium Hot Springs during the discussion and were pleased to see several ideas geared toward assisting the herd from various community groups. “Issues raised were the declining sheep numbers over the last 20+ years, and a significant cause of this being MVA impacts,” councillor Gray wrote the Pioneer after the meeting. “About a dozen different ideas were discussed to improve safety for the bighorn sheep without reducing safety for motorists, cyclists, and other users of the highway corridor. Various people from locals to highway experts to wildlife experts added comments on the advantages and disadvantages of each idea.” Councillor Logan added a comment to the Pioneer that “the ministries recognize the challenges and risks to the remaining herd size ... A rep mentioned that it is a high priority.” Clovechok expects to facilitate ongoing meetings with community representatives and to continue discussions via Zoom in the future. Kebe hopes to see a solution in place soon and said: “It’s a 20-year quest ... to have finally gotten this far.”
Kent Kebe on a scouting mission to find an injured sheep.
Humans, sheep and cars share the streets in Radium. File photo
File photo
June 4, 2020
The Columbia Valley Pioneer • 13
Council okays ‘reverse’ grad march, but plans still under discussion By Steve Hubrecht steve@columbiavalleypioneer.com Options for local high school students to do some sort of grad march are being discussed, although nothing is certain, there are plenty of complications, and David Thompson Secondary School (DTSS) has not given a final go-ahead of any sort. The tradition of DTSS grade 12 students parading down main street dressed in their graduation best stretches back quite some time, but earlier this spring it seemed as though the COVID-19 pandemic and the social distancing protocols it entails would cancel the custom this year. There is now a chance that perhaps, just maybe, a type of grad march could be staged with appropriate social distancing, following a decision by Invermere council to close 7th Avenue (Invermere’s main street) to traffic for a potential ‘reverse’ march. The decision came during Invermere’s Tuesday, May 24 committee of the whole meeting, after council received correspondence from a parent representing the 2020 DTSS grads. The parent outlined the plan for the ‘reverse march’ and asked council to consider shutting down main street to traffic on Wednesday, June 24 for the march. There are plenty of complications, however, that could throw a wrench into the works of any potential ‘reverse march,’ not least an order amendment from provincial health officer Dr. Bonnie Henry on Friday, May 22, which limits the number of vehicles at drive-in type events (including concerts, movies and high school graduations) to no more than 50 vehicles and imposes other restrictions.
Grad march on main street.
File photo
CBC reported that the amendment has scuttled plans for a drive-in graduation ceremony at Mt. Baker Secondary School in Cranbrook, leaving organizers there searching for other options. The ‘reverse march’ plan in Invermere — if it does in fact go ahead — would, instead of having the students march down main street in couples, see the couples standing along 7th Avenue, appropriately spaced apart, with spectators driving by in their cars in a loop circling south along 10th Avenue, east down 13th Street, and then north up 7th Avenue (past the grads). The time for the march would be shifted to a bit later than usual, so as not to interfere with the business hours of local shops on main street, and would be from 7 p.m. to 9 p.m. The parent’s email mentioned that another potential idea which was turned down by the RCMP due to safety concerns, was to have spectators stand along main street as usual, while students went past standing in the back of pickup trucks or on floats. Council enthusiastically supported the idea of a ‘reverse march’ at the May 24 meeting, with councillor Gerry Taft calling it “awesome” and council agreed to close 7th Avenue, if the march does go ahead.
District of Invermere
FireSmart Rebate Program
As a part of our continued efforts to increase our community’s resilience to wildfire, the District of Invermere is excited to introduce the new FireSmart Rebate program. Homeowners who take steps to FireSmart their homes may be eligible to be reimbursed through the FireSmart Rebate Program. Through funding received from the Union of BC Municipality’s Community Resiliency Investment Program, the District of Invermere is offering $500 rebates to residents who take steps to FireSmart their homes or property. The focus of the FireSmart Rebate Program in 2020 will be on the reduction of combustible vegetation in and around residences at this work is home of the simplest, yet most effective way to improve a home’s ability to survive a wildfire. To qualify for a rebate, residents must first have a Fire Smart Home Assessment by the District of Invermere Certified Local FireSmart Representative completed. Next, residents will need to take action on the recommendations made during the home assessment. The homeowner will submit their receipts (or copies of) to the front counter at the District of Invermere Municipal Office along with the Work plan / Estimate. The District will then inspect and approve the completed work at the property. If designated work is successfully completed, the homeowner will be reimbursed for 50 % of material and labour costs to a maximum $500 rebate per property. The FireSmart rebate program will be available from June 12th to November 30th, 2020, on a first come first serve basis. There will be approximately 40 rebates available.
Contact 250-342- 9281 or email info@invermere.net for your free FireSmart Home Assessment.
The Columbia Valley Pioneer is here to help you! We are making every effort to support our local businesses during this difficult time. Advertise here to let people know that you’re still open. Full Service Open Mon.–Fri. Gas at 7 am – 6 pm Self-Serve Sun. 8 am – 6 pm Price with restricted access ● Propane/Diesel ● Convenience Store
to the convenience store. Please bring your credit or debit cards as preferred methods of payment.
TEMPORARILY CLOSED
THANK YOU!
We would also like to thank all of our customers for their support at this time.
Visit us on Highway 93/95 between Invermere and Windermere ER UR O V AV O FL 30
S
OPEN DAILY AT NOON Hwy 93/95 & Blackforest Trail at the Invermere Crossroads
chillouticecream.ca
OPEN DAILY AT 11 AM
• Poutine • Burgers • Fries • Dogs • Rings
Hwy 93/95 & Black Forest Trail
POUTINEQUEEN.CA
250-688-3344 • pizzeriamercato.com
Contact Amanda Nason for more information. Cell: 250-341-1111
Where to recycle? Check the BC RECYCLEpEdia 604-RECYCLE (732-9253) 1-800-667-4321 RECYCLING COUNCIL OF B.C. MEMBER
14 • The Columbia Valley Pioneer
June 4, 2020
HERE TO SERVE YOU CONCRETE I N
CONCRETE
P U R S U I T
• Commercial concrete sealer • Ready Mix Concrete • Concrete Pumping retarder for exposed • Over 50 colours available aggregate and in stock • DELIVERED ON TIME • Concrete stamps for rent at a fair price • Full range of coloured release • Full range of sand and agents for stamping gravel products.
O F
EXCELLENCE Skandia Concrete • Manufacturers & suppliers of quality concrete & gravel products • Experienced, professional operators and the right equipment to get your job done • Serving the valley for over 30 years
• Environmentally responsible • Steamed aggregate beds for top quality year-round concrete supply • We stand behind our service, quality and products
Phone: 250-342-5833 • Cell: 250-270-9444
All products are available at 9120, Hwy 93/95 which is five kilometres north of Tim Hortons
READY MIX CONCRETE Concrete Pump • Sand & Gravel Heavy Equipment Rentals • Crane Service Proudly Serving the Valley for over 50 years
For competitive prices and prompt service, call: 250-342-3268 (plant) 250-342-6767 (office)
1756 Hwy 93/95 Windermere B.C. Office: 250-342-6500 • Toll Free: 1-888-341-2221
CONTRACTING
CONTRACTING
CARPET CLEANING
Specializing in all heating, electric, gas and wood. • Fireplaces • Commercial and residential • New builds • Renovations.
• Trusses • Engineered Floors • Wall Panels Tel: 250.341.6075 Fax: 250.341.3427 Email: info@duskbuildingsystems.com www.duskbuildingsystems.com
1320 Industrial Road #3 Box 159, Invermere, B.C. V0A 1K0
Our services •
Excavation
•
Hauling
•
Landscaping
•
Basements
•
Water lines
Invermere and Golden, British Columbia
•
Gravel Screening
250-272-0468
•
Gravel Products
•
Site Prep
CO N T R AC T I N G
Kekuli Bay Cabinetry
We also offer roundthe-clock service calls.
A licensed, registered and bonded company
TILE AND GROUT CLEANING Business: 250-342-9692
RR#4 2117–13 Ave. Invermere, BC V0A 1K4
Cell: 250-342-1273 Fax: 250-342-9644
Give us a call! James, 250-688-1267 or Jerry, 250-342-5299 Email: jeffersoncontractingltd@gmail.com
ptarmiganrugclean@gmail.com
INSURANCE
INSURANCE
INSURANCE AGENCIES LTD.
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
P.O. Box 130 Invermere, BC V0A 1K0 Office: 250-342-2175 • Fax: 250-342-2669 Cindy.mackay@kootenayinsurance.ca
www.kootenayinsurance.ca
kekulibaycabinetry.com LANDSCAPING
THE COLUMBIA VALLEY’S TREE CARE SPECIALISTS WINDERMERE, BC 250-341-7029
• Authorized dealer • Designer • Installer
Dale Elliott Contracting 25 years experience installing cabinets Custom Woodwork and Finishing Serving the Columbia Valley for over 40 years.
dale@decontracting.ca • 250-341-7098
GOLDEN, BC 250-344-0188
GET YOUR QUOTE AT WWW.GREENLEAFTREE.CA INFO@GREENLEAFTREE.CA
R O O T E D I N T H E C O L U M B I A VA L L E Y S I N C E 2 0 0 7
Have an opinion? Email your letter to the editor to dauna@columbiavalleypioneer.com
June 4, 2020
The Columbia Valley Pioneer • 15
HERE TO SERVE YOU LANDSCAPING
2016
SERVICES
Landscaping & Design • Trucking • Excavating •T • • Civil Earthworks
(Servicing the Valley since 1999)
•
Quality not quantity Sue Coy
Lloyd Wilder
250-341-5353 sdcoy@shaw.ca
250-342-5326 www.decoylandscaping.com lewilder@shaw.ca
NEW SEWER CAMERA
SERVICES
• Septic Tank Pumping • Portable Toilet Rentals
East Kootenay Plumbing Services & Renovations Available 24/7
• 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
Red Seal Journeyman Plumbers/Gasfitters (B)
eastkootenayplumbing@yahoo.com 250-272-3374
Bruce Dehart 250.347.9803 or 250.342.5357
SERVICES
Professional • Lawn Maintenance Scott Postlethwaite
Serving the Valley for over 20 years! Commercial
Resdential
Residential, Commercial Electric Furnace and Hot Water Tank Repair and Service For All Your Electrical Needs
Free Estimates
invermereelectric@gmail.com
1710 10th Avenue – Invermere, B.C. V0A 1K0
Everett Frater Enterprises Cell: 250-342-5645 • efrater@telus.net
• Patches • Driveways • Crack Sealing • Parking Lots • Roads • And more!
Patryk Jagiello STAIN/LACQUER/PAINT INTERIOR/EXTERIOR
Plumbing • Boiler Systems
patco_dev@shaw.ca
(250) 270-0345 Andy Charette
in Calgary since 2002 in Invermere since 2004
Rigid Plumbing Ltd.
E: rigidplumbing@hotmail.ca P: 250-341-5179
Patco Developments Ltd. PROFESSIONAL PAINTERS
Kootenay Paving
Fully Insured & WCB Covered
• Pruning and Removal of ALL Trees and Shrubs • Stump Grinding • Fully Insured & WCB Covered
Chimney and Eavestrough Cleaning and Repair Specialists
You name it! I’ll take care of it!
Toll Free 1-888-341-2221
Call now for a free quote! Locally operated, with full-time staff to serve you better.
FREE ESTIMATES
YOUR ONE-STOP SHOP for all home maintenance from raking your lawn to renovating your entire house.
ROCKY MOUNTAIN CHIMNEY SWEEPS LTD. 804 Almberg Road, Golden, BC V0A 1H2 CELL: 250.272.5599 OFFICE: 250.344.7323 todd@rockymountainchimneysweeps.com rockymountainchimneysweeps.com
CLEANING & MAINTENANCE ON ALL WOOD BURNING APPLIANCES • WETT INSPECTIONS
Please call Steve ~ a real local you can trust! 250-342-1791
WINDOW COVERINGS SHOWROOM • • • •
Doors Windows Flooring Painting/Interior/ Exterior • Kitchen Renovations • Window Coverings
• 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
SERVICE EXCELLENCE IN THE COLUMBIA VALLEY
• Air Conditioning/Heat Pumps • Fireplaces • Full Heating and Ventilation Systems Call for your FREE consultation and estimate
30 YEARS EXPERIENCE
Keep your local businesses alive. Get your tree services right here in Invermere!
1756 Hwy 93/95, Windermere, B.C. V0B 2L2 Phone: 250-342-6500 • Fax: 250-342-3484 Beat the fall rush ~ clean your Chimney this spring!
OVER
SINCE 1991 ICBC Glass Repair Out of Province Vehicle Inspections Auto Body Repairs • Painting • Quality Parts
We give all students 15% off with valid student ID
North American Warranty All Makes and Models Tire Sales and Installation
141 Industrial Rd. 2 • 250-342-9424 • Open Monday - Saturday, 8:30 am - 5:30 pm WETT Certified
Have something to say? Letters to the editor can be e-mailed to news@columbiavalleypioneer.com
16 • The Columbia Valley Pioneer
June 4, 2020
. . . ‘Furor’ from page 3 Kessler added that he’s been a professional mountain bike trail builder for more than a decade and has worked on almost all the valley’s official trail networks, including Swansea and Lake Lillian. “To make a trail safe, you need to apply standards. So don’t, for instance, put a black (advanced level) jump on a blue (intermediate) trail. And you need to put in berms to slow bikers down instead of having a steep, sketchy hill. That’s what the CastleRock trail had,” he said. “It’s a popular place because there is really nowhere else with small jumps and berms that is close to town (Invermere). Swansea has some of that, but for those trails you need to be able to drive there, you need specialized bikes, and you often need to organize a shuttle. A lot of kids don’t have all that.” The Pioneer sought comment from groups that in the past have expressed opposition to building new mountain bike trails or legalizing existing unofficial ones, but was unable to get comment prior to the print deadline. In the past, such as with the proposed Barbour Rock trails, trail opponents have cited concerns about environmental impacts such as erosion, disruption to wildlife, intrusion or alteration of other existing uses of Crown land, recreational sprawl, and fragmenting of wildlife connectivity as reasons for their opposition. Several local residents have, on the petition, outlined their reasons for signing it. “We need all the mountain bike trails we can get in the Invermere area. We are sadly lacking compared to pretty (much) every other mountain (town) that’s not in a park,” wrote Richard Unger. “These are low environmental impact trails in an already semi-urbanized area, and they provide access to a healthy lifestyle that more people should be enjoying, not chasing away. The skidder trails that are grown over in there from the clearing of trees in CastleRock were not an issue, so how can this sensibly be an issue now?” wrote Lyle Prescott.
Berms on the CastleRock mountain bike trail During discussion on the topic during the May 24 committee of the whole meeting, Invermere councillor Gerry Taft pointed out that Lot 4616 is not just an ordinary slice of Crown land. “Invermere has tried before to secure it as a park,” he said. “The approach being taken so far seems to be similar to that of if you built a house in the backcountry on Crown land. But clearly this area is very important ... it should not be painted with the same brush as all Crown land.” Taft noted that after the Lake Lillian trails were legalized, the number of the mountain bikers using them increased to the point that, in his opinion, “it is now over capacity.” He suggested that district staff reach out to the relevant natural resource officers, for-
Photo by Pat Morrow estry officials and recreation officials, and ask them to hold off on any action one way or the other until more information about the situation can be obtained. Councillor Greg Anderson chimed in, pointing out that since it’s Crown land, it doesn’t matter what council has to say about it, since ultimately provincial officials can make a decision on the land without input from Invermere. Taft responded that it’s still a good idea for Invermere to at least have a say, in part because Lot 4616 does sit within the district boundaries and in part because of the special nature of the area. District staff agreed to follow up with provincial officials.
HERE TO SERVE YOU Your Local Professionals
SERVICES
Sales ~ Service ~ Installation
UNIVERSAL DOORS & EXTERIORS
COLUMBIA VALLEY REAL ESTATE
Arnold Scheffer 250-342-6700
unidoorext@live.ca • unidoorext.ca
Industrial ~ Commercial ~ Residential
PHARMACY
LAMBERT-KIPP P H A R M A C Y ( 2 0 1 9 ) LT D . 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
JanK limeK 250.342.1195 janklimek@shaw.ca JanKlimek.ca
Wende Brash Broker/Owner
RE/MAX Invermere Independently Owned and Operated 1022B - 7th Avenue, Box 459 Invermere B.C. V0A 1K0 E-mail: wendebrash@telus.net Fax: 250-342-9611
Office: 250-342-6505 • Cell: 250-342-1300
love a good photo submission. Shutter bugs WeIf you have a snapshot to share, welcome! email dauna@columbiavalleypioneer.com
June 4, 2020
The Columbia Valley Pioneer • 17
P IONEER C LASSIFIEDS
• Phone: 250-341-6299 • Fax: 1-855-377-1312 • Email: info@columbiavalleypioneer.com • Web: www.columbiavalleypioneer.com
ANNOUNCEMENT
CHEERS & JEERS
LOST AND FOUND
CONDO FOR RENT
Galbraith, Joan Isobel
Alcoholics Anonymous. If alcohol is causing problems or conflict in your life, AA can help. Due to COVID-19 and the need to slow the spread of the virus, all the AA rooms in will be closed until further notice. We have created other alternatives for meetings using “Zoom” at 7 p.m. every evening except for Monday’s. Please call 250-342-2424 for more information or to speak with someone from our fellowship.
Late Cheers to the DOI Street Sweeper - my favorite time of year!
FOUND: Cell phone with black case. Call to describe 250-3423178.
Cheers to the quilting ladies from Valley Peace Makers Invermere, Hoodo Quilters Fairmont, and everyone else that has supported me (Kootenay Behind The Seams) through this rough patch. Your support has given me strength to continue to stay open.
STORAGE
Al-Anon. Are you concerned about or affected by someone else’s drinking? If so, please join us on a “ZOOM” meeting every Monday at 7 p.m. For more information or to speak with someone from our fellowship, please call 250-342-8255.
Weekly Featured Listing
Radium The Peaks Complex, Birch. Loft unit 1,450 sq ft. living, dining, 2-bdrm, 3-washrooms. Kitchen with all appliances + microwave/dishwasher. Laundry room with washer/dryer. Propane fireplace, heating, A/C, blinds. One parking space/ storage in the U/G parkade. Facility has an outdoor pool, hot tub and indoor hot tub. 2 balconies, 270 degrees of views. No pets, No smoking. Equifax report and references required. Call Jeff Owen 403-660-2120. $1,375/mo, utilities included.
We would like to express our appreciation to the staff of Columbia Gardens for their care for Joan the past six years. This made her final years very comfortable and worry-free. The family plan to have a private Celebration of Life.
Harding, Eileen Evelyn (Nana) January 1st, 1923 – April 15th, 2020 With great sadness we announce that our family matriarch passed away peacefully on April 15, 2020 at 97 years of age. Eileen was born on New Years day in Glasgow Scotland. She was a Mother, Grandmother and Great Grandmother and is survived by six children; Graham (Kathleen), Margaret (Milton deceased), Frederick Gordon, Kenneth (Kathy), Catherine (Harvey), Laurie. She also has - 17 Grandchildren and 28 Great Grandchildren. Eileen was predeceased by parents Margaret Thomson (Dymock) and David Spence Thomson (who arrived on Nadleh Whuten territory from Glasgow in 1927), along with brothers, Stewart and Eric, sisters, Ethel and Dorothy (Dot). She is survived by her little sister Kathleen who was born in Fort Fraser. Nana left a legacy of wonderful people who will dearly miss her. Eileen met Thomas Harding (deceased 2012) in Victoria. They were married in Comox where Tom was stationed. They were then transferred to Cold Lake Alberta (CFB). The growing family then transferred to Uplands air base in Ottawa before moving back to Cold Lake where he worked until he retired from the air force. The family moved to Nanaimo in 1971 where Eileen gardened and baked to feed her family and many of their friends. Her tomatoes, homemade bread and corn chowder soup are legendary. In 1977 Eileen and Tom moved to Peachland to create a beautiful oasis where she won many awards for her knitting, quilting, produce and baking. They moved to Summerland in 1991 to build a new home and another Garden of Eden until poor health required a move back to Vancouver Island to Mill Bay where family could care for them. After Tom’s passing Eileen moved to Invermere to be cared for by daughter Margaret. In her final days Eileen was a resident at Columbia House where she was lovingly cared for until her passing. Her beautiful smile and spirit made all feel better, just by being in her presence. We extend heartfelt gratitude to the wonderful staff at Columbia House. In her memory donations can be sent to the Columbia House Enhancement Society Box 963, Invermere BC, V0A 1K0. A memorial service will be announced at a later date.
Pioneer Classified Advertising 250-341-6299
NEWHOUSESTORAGE Various sizes available. Now with climatecontrolled units. Call 250-342-3637.
COMMERCIAL SPACE 864 sq. ft. Shop space in the Industrial Park. Electrical included, $700/mo. 250-3423637, newmulti@telus.net.
SUITE FOR RENT
CE
Joan was born in Vancouver, BC and moved to the Columbia Valley (Spillimacheen) in 1944 with her new husband Arthur Galbraith where they lived until moving to Invermere in 2012. Joan is pre-deceased by her husband Arthur. Joan is survived by her six children: Marie (Jim) Kaytor, Sheila (Wayne) Kraig, Paul (Andree) Galbraith, Dan Galbraith, Jeremy Galbraith, and Francine Galbraith; 19 grandchildren; 26 great-grandchildren and 4 great-great grandchildren. Joan enjoyed gardening and was always making a bouquet of flowers for bridal showers, baby showers or weddings. Joan and Art were very involved in the Seniors Games (carpet bowling and floor curling as well as table tennis) having attended for twenty-five consecutive years.
DU
It is with great sadness that we must announce the peaceful passing of Joan the evening of May 17, 2020.
RE
July 4, 1926 – May 17, 2020
D
S OBITUARY S
CHEERS & JEERS Huge Cheers to Brenda BraundReid of Royal LePage Rockies West Realty. You went out of your way to represent us with our home purchase. Your professionalism, attention to detail and availability were much appreciated. You truly exemplify what being a Realtor is all about!
Ski & Revenue! Studio Condos at Panorama, Horsethief
$89,400 ea. Units #322 MLS: 2451728 and #827 MLS: 2451729 (Brokerage ~ Rockies West Realty)
BUYING OR SELLING CALL 250-341-1202
gerrytaft.ca Rockies West Realty Independently owned and operated
Renovated large, bright, 2-bdrm basement suite in downtown Invermere. Private entrance and enclosed patio, five appliances, N/S, N/P, $1,000/mo + utilities. 1 year lease. Call 403-874-0483.
1923-2020 It is with great sadness we announce the passing of Dorothy (Dot) who left us peacefully in Invermere Hospital on May 21, 2020. Dorothy is pre-deceased by her parents (Bertram and Kathleen Kester), brothers Kenneth (Ken) Kester and James (Jim) Kester, husband John Herbert (Jack) Dunstan, son John Stephen Dunstan, and husband Donald Forster. Dot is survived by daughter Dorothy Lynne Dunstan, son Kenneth Martin Dunstan, and several grandchildren. Dot spent the last four years at Columbia Garden Village, and she had nothing but praise and affection for everyone that worked there. She loved playing bridge and inviting friends in for happy hour. Special thanks to the wonderful staff at Columbia Gardens and to the Kester family. Your help and support are much appreciated. A celebration of Dorothy’s life will be held at a later time. In lieu of flowers, donations to the Heart and Stroke Foundation are welcome.
Beautiful 4-bed, 3 bath townhouse with garage, $289,000. #6-4878 Ridge Road, Borregos, Radium. (See kijiji for pictures and info) Call: 250-4094876, email: bighornblinds@ gmail.com.
CONDO FOR SALE
2 bedroom apartment, downtown Invermere, long term, N/S, N/P, 250-341-1650, invermerehomerentals@gmail. com.
LOT/ACREAGE FOR SALE
S OBITUARY S Forster, Dorothy Kathleen
HOUSE FOR SALE
BARRY BROWN-JOHN Managing Broker “Rocky Mountain Land Man”
250-342-5245 b.brownjohn@gmail.com
FOR SALE: Newly removed 2-bdrm condo, Invermere, $150,000. Call 250-342-8860 for more info.
MISC. FOR SALE For Sale: Grass-Fed Beef Hormone & Antibiotic Free Ground Beef, Beef Bones Buy online: www.localline.ca/ brisco-enterprises Brisco Enterprises 250-346-3227.
FIREWOOD Support Rockies Hockey firewood. Contact email cvrockies.firewood@gmail.com or call 250-342-1624 for more info or to place an order.
WANTED Wanted a boat slip in Windermere. Call 250-342-2846 or 403-560-4942.
18 • The Columbia Valley Pioneer
SERVICES LEE’S SMALL ENGINE REPAIR SHOP Specializing in chain saws, tillers, trimmers and lawn mower repairs and maintenance. It’s time to get your tools tuned up and ready for spring! Industrial #2 Road across from NAPA Hours: Tuesday - Friday 9 a.m. - 5 p.m. Saturday 10 a.m. - 3 p.m. 250-341-2551 Offering excellent service and fair pricing! Heaven’s Best Carpet and Upholstery Cleaning Environmentally friendly products. Dry in 1 hour! Our disinfectant is formulated to kill COVID-19. Call 250-688-0213 BOLD Co. Name B.B.’s Home & Lawn Care Services: Renovations, Handyman Repairs, Small moves, Dump runs, House Checks, House Cleaning, Yard Maintenance, Eavestroughs, Tree removal. 250-688-2897. Pike Contracting Excavating and Skid Steer services. Call Jason 250-342-5277.
LESSONS/TRAINING 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..
HELP WANTED Lakeview Meadows Community Association is looking to fill a part time position to help with maintenance and operations. This position requires someone who is willing to work a flexible schedule, including weekends, in an outdoor environment. If you are energetic, and want to become a valued member of our team, please send your resume to manager@lakeviewmeadows.ca Lakeview Meadows Community Association, 855 Lakeview Meadows Road.
June 4, 2020
HELP WANTED
EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY
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.
C O N T R A C T I N G LT D A DIVISION OF GREGSON HOLDINGS
COPCAN is currently accepting resumes for skilled labourers and flag persons. Please send resumes to info@copcan.ca
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. PIZZA 2 GO Is looking for part-time or fulltime employees willing to work days or evenings on weekdays or weekends. Please drop off resume or text 250-409-9161. Hiring Summer Youth for the Museum. Must be between the ages of 15 and 30 Start date: June 29th. Please drop resume off at the Museum after May 31st. Deadline for resumes: June 12th, 4pm. For further info, phone 250 342 9434. An exceptional opportunity to join a fun, fast-paced scene at the Rocky River Grill. We are now accepting resumes for experienced servers. Please send to steve.kuffler@gmail.com or Alicia at 250-342-8885. The Black Forest is looking for a daytime cleaner. Must be available weekends. Email resume to careers@ blackforestrestaurant.com or call 250-342-9417.
Please email classified ads to info@columbiavalleypioneer.com
Join our team! LaTour Group Management Canada, Inc. (LTC), is now hiring for full-time and part-time Room Attendants at Panorama Vacation Retreat at Horsethief Lodge in Panorama British Columbia. LTC offers competitive salary and an abundant benefits package, including discounted travel opportunities, medical and dental benefits, subsidized staff accommodation, and RRSP matching. Wage starting at $15 per hour. Must be available to work weekends. Join our team! POSITION SUMMARY The Room Attendant cleans rooms consistent with LTC standards and interacts with guests in a manner that promotes a positive impression of the staff and property. This position creates a comfortable and clean guest environment, which contributes to guest satisfaction and the success of the rooms division. ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS • Maintains and cleans rooms, including all common areas, in accordance with our brand standards. • Utilizes the approved checklist to inspect, clean, and secure the facilities. • Replenishes guest rooms with amenities, supplies, and linens in accordance to our standards. • Inspects rooms for repairs and reports needs to Management. • “Pitches” in and helps co-workers with their job duties as part of the housekeeping team. • Perform other duties as needed to ensure smooth property operations. Please email your resume to Andrea Hopkins, General Manager ahopkins@latourgroup.com or fax to (778) 508-9806. Application deadline: June 19th, 2020.
MacDONALD
&COMPANY
~ Barrister, Solicitor and Notary Public ~
Full-time Receptionist Personal Attributes/Requirements: • • • • • • •
strong attention to detail excellent communication skills ability to multi-task ability to work in a fast-paced changing environment possess fluent computer skills possess a positive attitude ability to work independently as well as reliability
Duties/Responsibilities include but are not limited to: • working with multiple computer programs (Microsoft Office, Excel, Law programs etc.) • opening/closing files and data entry • managing ongoing files • mail and bank runs • answering multi-line phone system, transferring calls, taking messages, booking/cancelling appointments • preparation of various legal documents and completing dictations • handling clientele • ordering supplies, dealing with suppliers, and organizing new services needed • organizing and maintaining filing systems • problem solving Experience in an office setting/administrative position or legal office is essential. The ideal candidate will have an outgoing, client service-based attitude with the willingness to learn new tasks and skills. This is a salaried position and a probation period is required. If you believe you would be a good fit for our team, please email your resume and cover letter to reception@wjmacdonaldlaw.com. Hours: Monday – Friday (9 am - 5 pm).
Cultural Heritage Coordinator Manager, Territorial Operations Reporting to the Manager of Territorial Stewardship and the Director of Operations, the Cultural Heritage Coordinator will oversee the development and implementation of the Shuswap Indian Band Cultural Heritage Program and related policies for the protection and stewardship of cultural heritage resources. The Cultural Heritage Coordinator is expected to attend internal/external meetings within Shuswap Indian Band territory, including training sessions, field trips, and provide ongoing reporting and supports to Chief and Council and Band membership. The Cultural Heritage Coordinator will work closely with the Manager of Territorial Stewardship, Finance department and Director of Operations to assist with project management, as required. RESPONSIBILITIES INCLUDE: • The Cultural Heritage Coordinator is responsible for the coordination of field technicians for cultural monitoring throughout the territory. • Cultural Heritage Coordinator may also provide advice and recommendations to Chief & Council at their request, or as required by the project management. • Office administration procedures, including filing, reviewing reports and other technical papers, preparing memos, letters, reports and other correspondence; and drafting proposals, basic accounting management (processing invoices for payment, travel arrangements etc.). • Use of Microsoft Word, Excel, Outlook and primary social media tools; data entry and basic website management (CKK) • Understanding of the Shuswap Indian Band’s Human Resources Policy, OH&S Policy and other policies as required by the position • Shuswap Indian Band community, and Secwepemc culture and values. • Ensure that the Traditional Wellness Steering Committee (TWSC) of the Secwepemc Health Caucus representatives are supported to attend the regular meetings • Ensure the Secwepemc Elders Council representatives are supported to attend monthly meetings that happen throughout Secwepemculecw. • Support various fundraising events to support Elders/Knowledge Keepers to attend seasonal gatherings, BC Elders Gathering and other events. • Performs all duties and responsibilities in accordance with existing Band policies, standards and procedures; • Works as a team to provide comprehensive responses to development referrals that impact SIB Rights and Title in Secwepemc Traditional Territory”. • Ability to travel extensively within the Shuswap Indian Band territory; • Chair/organize the Knowledge Keepers Council meetings/trips; and • Performs other duties as requested by the Manager, Territorial Operations. QUALIFICATIONS • Grade 12 Graduation or equivalent; • Have and maintain a valid BC driver’s license as a condition of employment and have access to a reliable vehicle; • Knowledge and Understanding of current First Nations Rights and Title issues that affect land use, government and industry relations; • Current case law affecting Aboriginal Rights and Title; • Federal and provincial legislation / policies affecting land use and heritage protection; • Shuswap Indian Band community, culture and Secwepemc; and • Knowledge of the Territorial Operations Strategic Plan, priorities and initiatives. • Knowledge of Band office policies and procedures; and • Good working knowledge of the provincial lands and resources referral process, the BC and Canada Consultation Guidelines, and the Secwepemc RFA Single Window Access Portal. • Occupational First Aid Level 1 (or willing to obtain) • Transportation Endorsement (or willing to obtain) • WHIMIS (or willing to obtain) • Bear Aware & Bear Spray training (or willing to obtain) • Fire Extinguisher training (or willing to obtain.) SKILLS & ABILITIES: • Ability to multitask and prioritize multiple projects • Good interpersonal skills; • Good communication skills; • Ability to work effectively with community members, Band staff and technical personnel from government agencies and the corporate sector; and • Good computer skills using MS Office software, social media, working knowledge of mapping software, Google Earth etc; • Ability to walk/hike long distances, on steep terrain, in various elements and environments; • Understand and be trained on how to use a hand-held GPS, and tablet software as required. TERMS AND CONDITIONS • Full-time position. • Hours of work are typically 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday to Friday (half-hour unpaid lunch) but may vary depending on activities. May entail weekend work. • Must adhere to the Shuswap Indian Band Human Resources Policy and Procedure Manual (Approved April 4, 2018), and the Shuswap Indian Band Financial Policy Manual (Approved, October 24, 2017). CLOSING DATE EXTENDED: June 2, 2020, 4 pm (Mountain Time) Submit a cover letter and resume to: Angela Sarsons, Director of Operations, E-mail: dops@shuswapband.ca • Fax: 250.341.3683 Shuswap Indian Band, RR#2, 3A – 492 Arrow Road, Invermere, BC, V0A 1K2
June 4, 2020
The Columbia Valley Pioneer • 19
Getting around to the new Radium roundabout intersection Submitted by Ministry of Transportation and Infrastructure Work will soon begin at the intersection of highways 93 and 95 to replace Radium’s existing four-way stop with a roundabout, improving safety and traffic flow through the area. “We are making historic investments in good projects that create jobs in the short term and help communities such as Radium Hot Springs build safer and more efficient roadways,” said Catherine McKenna, federal minister of Infrastructure and Communities.
HELP WANTED
Several times a year – particularly on long weekends and during the summer – this junction experiences high traffic volumes, resulting in lengthy delays and queues in excess of two kilometres. Replacing the four-way stop with a new roundabout will help keep traffic moving more efficiently and will cut down on delays. Work is expected to get underway in June, and the project is slated for completion by the end of 2020. Businesses will remain pedestrian and vehicle accessible throughout project construction, either through existing or temporary access ways.
HELP WANTED DISTRICT OF INVERMERE
Referrals Clerk
914 – 8th Avenue, PO Box 339 Invermere, B.C. V0A 1K0 Tel: 250-342-9281 • Fax: 250-342-2934
Shuswap Indian Band, located in Invermere, BC, is seeking a highly organized individual to serve as our Referrals Clerk. Reporting to Manager of Territorial Operations, the Referrals Clerk is responsible for providing a variety of administrative and technical services related to lands and natural resources. The ideal candidate for this challenging position will possess excellent organization and communication skills, an aptitude for computer operations including word processing, mapping, file management, and a demonstrated desire to learn. This job will involve on-the-job training on mapping, digital file management, referral processing, and research related to Shuswap Indian Band’s Territorial Operations department. RESPONSIBILITIES INCLUDE: • Receives, records, and processes referrals addressed to the Shuswap Indian Band (SIB). • Conducts preliminary assessment of referrals to understand scope of potential impacts to SIB rights and title interests and provides recommendations to the appropriate departments. • Assists the Shuswap Indian Band with referral responses by soliciting input from Chief and Council, the Director of Operations, and department managers, and the Community. • Processes SIB traditional knowledge information from multimedia formats and imports into the database. • Manages and updates the database. • Provides authorized reports and lists to designated staff and departments as directed by the Manager of Territorial Operations. • Manages mobile mapping software, hardware, and data for field work applications (download, save, and projecting on maps). • Attends departmental, organization and community meetings. • Performs general administrative and clerical tasks such as answering phones, faxing, mailing, and filing, photocopying, scanning, and typing. • Provides general administrative support to the Territorial Operations Department including invoicing. • Performs all duties and responsibilities in accordance with the SIB policies, standards, and procedures. • Maintains confidentiality on all matters relating to the affairs of the SIB. • Performs other related duties as requested by the Manager, Territorial Operations and the Director of Operations. REQUIREMENTS AND KEY ATTRIBUTES: • Knowledge and experience with traditional knowledge mapping and information management. • Basic understanding of provincial and federal regulatory processes related to resource management and the crown consultation process. • Experience with First Nation referrals and the BC referrals process. • Ability to identify opportunities for SIB when reviewing referrals. • Experience with web-based database applications and data entry. • Excellent oral and written communication skills. • Strong organizational and filing skills. • Proven ability to execute advanced office procedures and practices. • Ability to take initiative and work within strict timelines. • Tactful and diplomatic. • Must have strong teamwork and cooperation, service orientation and problem solving and judgement skills. • Ability to work in multi-cultural settings. TERMS AND CONDITIONS • Full-time position. • Must adhere to the Shuswap Indian Band Human Resources Policy and Procedure Manual (Approved April 4, 2018). • Must adhere to the Shuswap Indian Band Financial Polices and Procedures (Approved October 24, 2017) This posting may remain open until the position is filled. Only those selected for an interview will be contacted. Preference will be given to persons of Aboriginal ancestry as per Section 16 (1) of the Canadian Human Rights Act. Appointment to this position will require a formal criminal record check, the details of which may preclude an offer of employment being finalized. Submit a cover letter and resume to: Angela Sarsons, Director of Operations, E-mail: dops@shuswapband.ca • Fax: 250.341.3683 Shuswap Indian Band, RR#2, 3A – 492 Arrow Road, Invermere, BC, V0A 1K2
COMMUNITY AMBASSADOR As part of the East Kootenay Restart, the Community Ambassador Program is being introduced to help provide public education and awareness about how to safely and responsibly move into new phases of the COVID-19 response in our community. ROLE: • To educate the public about the importance of physical distancing; • To safely engage with the public, provide information and answer questions; • To provide education and awareness about the personal responsibility principles in the BC Restart Plan; • To encourage the safe use of our open amenities and services; • To promote our community and local initiatives; and, • To assist with other duties as required. RESPONSIBILITIES: • Follow a schedule to ensure sites are being regularly visited; • Contact Compliance/Bylaw Enforcement if violations are observed; • Provide ongoing reporting on successes, opportunities and challenges. TRAINING: • A general ambassador training session will be provided by the Regional Emergency Operations Centre; and, • Ambassadors will become familiar with both the Ambassador Program and other community resources. REQUIREMENTS: • Ability to communicate with co-workers and members of the general public in a courteous, tactful, and professional manner; • Willingness to wear Ambassador Program identification while on duty; • Willingness to work in varied weather conditions; • Ability to use sound judgement; • Commitment to continue to learn and promote provincial and local messaging around COVID-19 and each phase of the Restart plan; • Willingness to follow the guidelines, decisions and directions of the local governing body; • Willingness to work varied hours and days throughout the week, including weekends; and, • Valid driver’s license. This position will run from June – August and earns $22 per hour based on a 20-hour work week that can be renegotiated during the course of the contract. Applicants are invited to submit their resumes by 4:30 pm on June 19th, 2020 to: District of Invermere Attn: Kindry Luyendyk, Interim Chief Administrative Officer Box 339, Invermere, BC, V0A 1K0 Fax: (250) 342-2934 • Email: corporateservices@invermere.net We thank all applicants for their interest, however, only those considered for an interview will be contacted.
There’s a reason they’re called “CLASSY”. Pioneer Classifieds…
File photo
HELP WANTED
EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY Manager, Territorial Operations
Radium roundabout design option.
GROUNDS HELP Terravista in Windermere is looking for some help to maintain its grounds. Can start immediately, competitive wages. Students welcome! Please send your resume to terravistagm@gmail.com with “grounds help” listed as the subject.
BCYCNA – CLASSIFIED ADS BUILDINGS FOR SALE INTEGRITY POST FRAME BUILDINGS since 2008. Built with concrete posts. Barns, shops, riding arenas, machine sheds and more. Adam.s@ integritybuilt.com. 1-250-3515374. www.integritybuilt.com
HEALTH GET UP TO $50,000 from the Government of Canada. Do you or someone you know Have any of these Conditions? ADHD, Anxiety, Arthritis, Asthma, Cancer, COPD, Depression, Diabetes, Difficulty Walking, Fibromyalgia, Irritable Bowels, Overweight, Trouble Dressing...and Hundreds more. ALL ages & Medical Conditions Qualify. Have a child under 18 instantly receive more money. CALL BRITISH COLUMBIA BENEFITS 1-(800)-211-3550 OR Send a Text Message with Your Name and Mailing Address to (604) 739-5600 For Your FREE benefits package.
BUSINESS OPPORTUNITIES
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N E W S PA P E R
Phone: 250-341-6299 • info@columbiavalleypioneer.com
Just a reminder… The classified deadline is 12 noon Friday.
20 • The Columbia Valley Pioneer
June 4, 2020
FAITH “Life wants to make us more conscious” LAKE WINDERMERE ALLIANCE CHURCH Online Sundays at 10:30 a.m. Visit https://lwac.online.church 326 10th Avenue, Invermere 250-342-9535 • www.lwac.ca
WINDERMERE VALLEY SHARED MINISTRY ANGLICAN-UNITED Please email office@wvsm.ca to request a link to our online services which start at 10:30 a.m., Sundays. 250-342-6644 • www.wvsm.ca
VALLEY CHRISTIAN ASSEMBLY Worship services are discontinued for the foreseeable future. Pastor Murray Wittke 4814 Highway Drive, Windermere 250-342-9511 • www.valleychristianonline.com
ROMAN CATHOLIC CHURCH St. Anthony’s, Canal Flats., Canadian Martyrs’ – Invermere, St. Joseph’s – Radium. Father Jojo Augustine • 712 -12th Ave., Invermere 250-342-6167
ST. PETER’S MISSION OF INVERMERE Due to COVID-19, we have restructured our physical Sunday worship services to be online at our YouTube channel “Hungry for Life.” For updates, inspirational resources, and prayer requests, please go to our website: www.eklutheran.ca Pastor Doug Lutz, 250-464-0100 mtzionlc@hotmail.com
RADIUM CHRISTIAN FELLOWSHIP
By Brent Woodard Windermere Valley Shared Ministry I find it helpful to learn that it is in the design of life to challenge us, personally and collectively, from the moment we are born to the moment we die. Personal challenges come in many forms, from parents who aren’t perfect, to fellow kids who create drama on the playground and in school, then career choices, medical issues, figuring out how to be in relationships, stick handling how to live in a consumer society, changes, moving, the death of friends and family, and finally, if we’re fortunate, aging and dying consciously. The greatest “source” of challenges comes from other people. People rarely do what we think they should do or are as we need them to be. Every day challenges come. We are rarely left alone for very long. Collective challenges come in many forms also: pandemics, natural disasters, human-made disasters, economic and political environments of inequity, injustice and lack of control. Some people in the world seem to be affected by collective challenges more than others. The countries they live in have realities such as war, famine and unjust social conventions.
A part of us wants life to quit challenging us. A part of us believes that some people aren’t challenged as much as are we. We want their lives – or the lives we imagine they are having. We may keep thinking: “If I could just be in this married or non-married situation, if I could have this job, if I could own this property, if I could have this income, if I could get over this health issue, if the kids could just be this way, if the politicians would just run the country this way, if there was a medical solution for every ailment, then I could relax and be at peace.” We keep trying to create a comfort zone, psychologically and physically, but life keeps poking or ripping us out of our comfort zones. It seems life wants more from us than to just be comfortable. Life wants to make us more conscious. And we don’t evolve if we are kept comfortable. We evolve through challenges. This is true for every blade of grass, bird, animal and human. Other words for “conscious” are “awake,” “present,” and “aware.” I believe when religion is operating at its best, it is midwifing a spirituality which helps people embrace the challenges of life to the goal of waking up. Religion is not needed for this, but perhaps all awakening, however it happens, can be thought of as an experience of spirituality. When COVID-19 is over, there will be more pandemics, there will be and are more collective challenges, there are and will always be personal challenges in our lives until the day we die. How do we allow them, welcome them and use them as opportunities to become more conscious human beings?
Lake Windermere Pulse Check Pulse Check for May 26, 2020 Average water temperature: 14.8°C Average water depth: 4.4m Average turbidity: 0.79 NTU Average D.O.: 10.43 mg/L Average pH: 8.5
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
Volunteer - Treasurer The Invermere Health Care Auxiliary Society is searching for a Volunteer to fulfill the role as a Treasurer with a 2 year term. As the volunteer Treasurer for this non profit organization, you will oversee the accounting and financial management duties required for a non profit organization. You will supervise the Administrative Assistant who maintains and processes accounts payable transactions and maintains a data base of the members and non members. As the Treasurer, you will approve all accounts payable invoices and sign cheques for various payables. Knowledge of Accounting Software an asset.
For further information please contact Wendi Ede at 250-342-6348 or email wendi_pooh@hotmail.com
It was a nice morning out on the lake for sampling. The average water temperature was slightly lower than last week but the average water depth increased likely due to the recent precipitation. Today we also did our monthly collection of lab samples that test the pH and phosphorus (both total and dissolved) levels. We do this for pH to verify that our pH meter is reading accurately. Phosphorus is important to sample as, if there is too much, eutrophication can occur potentially causing algae blooms. As social distancing measures are still in place volunteers are unable to join us in the boat, however we hope this changes in the near future. To join the Ambassadors out on the lake on a Tuesday morning this summer, please contact Clare at (250) 341-6898 or intern@lakeambassadors.ca Thank you to the Columbia Valley Pioneer, District of Invermere, Regional District of East Kootenay, Columbia Basin Trust, Columbia Valley Local Conservation Fund, LUSH Charity Pot, and the Columbia Valley Community Foundation.
Three thirsty grizzlies Wendy Huey submitted this photo of an entirely different kind of teddy bear picnic. “This photo is probably a once-in-a-lifetime scene of three grizzlies in our yard drinking from my bird bath in Radium,” she said.