Columbia Valley Pioneer, July 23, 2020

July 23, 2020 Vol. 17/Issue 30

The Columbia Valley Pioneer • 1 July 23, 2020

Your Weekly Source for News and Events

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2 • The Columbia Valley Pioneer

July 23, 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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Just a year after it’s completion, the Columbia River Pull-out (top left), west of Radium, is getting a lot of use by locals and visitors alike, just the Village of Radium Hot Springs had hoped. This key community asset is used daily. Looking to see fewer faces and bigger spaces? Try Tilley Memorial Park (Upper left and upper right)in the morning, or early evening, on mid-week days. It includes one of the most accessible beaches in the Columbia Valley. Daytime crowds have gone, the sun is still hot, and the water is still warm! So great to see so many vendors and shoppers wearing masks and upping their social distancing game st all of the Columbia Valley Markets, including the Invermere Farmers & Artisans Market on Saturdays (bottom left and middle right), the Fairmont Farmers Market and Viibrant Earth Cafe Farmers Market in Canal Flats on Sundays (see photos in last week’s Pioneer), the Windermere Agri-Park Market on Wednesdays (bottom right) and Radium’s Market on Main on Fridays (middle left).

Photos by Ryan Watmough

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The Columbia Valley Pioneer • 3

Ser vin g th e Co lumbia Va

VALLEY NEWS

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Chisel New PeakPhysicians Medical Clinic The first direct Fairmont Hot Springs-Kelowna Angel Flight took a Radium man and Invermere woman to appoinments in Kelowna last week (left). Local municipal officials, First Nations representatives, Legion representatives, and the two patients pose for a photo before takeoff (top right), Shuswap Indian Band language and cultural advisor Michael Archie peforms a traditional dance (bottom right).

Photos by Ryan Watmough (left) and Rick Jarrett (top and bottom right)

Angel Flights takes wing in the Columbia Valley

By Steve Hubrecht steve@columbiavalleypioneer.com

Angel Flight East Kootenay spread its wings here in the Columbia Valley for the first time last week, when the volunteer charity organization had its first direct flight from Fairmont Hot Springs to Kelowna.

The regional organization began more than a year ago, in response to the interprovincial health issues that have seen East Kootenay residents who for years had been going for surgery and other specialist appointments in Calgary redirected to Kelowna instead. When it launched in April 2019, Angel Flight East Kootenay served municipalities across the region from Creston to Golden and beyond, but was only able to fly out of the Cranbrook airport. Thanks to a fundraising effort inspired in part by the local Columbia Valley branch of the Royal Canadian Legion, the organization is now able to fly from smaller towns, including Fairmont Hot Springs.

Officials and representatives from local municipalities, First Nations, Angel Flights, and the Legion were on hand early on Wednesday, July 8th as two local patients — Terri from Invermere and D.J. from Radium (patient confidentiality prevents their last names from being disclosed) — boarded an Angel Flight in Fairmont Hot Springs and took off to Kelowna. Terri was heading for a single appointment and flew back with Angel Flights later the same day. D.J. was going for a procedure and came back to the Columbia Valley with Angel Flights on Sat-

urday, July 18th. This was D.J.’s second trip to Kelowna with Angel Flights. His first trip involved going to Cranbrook and this time he was delighted not to have to drive down there and stay in a hotel overnight before flying.

The mood before the flight was celebratory with Shuswap language and cultural advisor Michael Archie performing a traditional dance and smudging the plane before takeoff.

“It’s wonderful to be able to fly right from our valley,” Invermere Angel Flights representative Rick Jarrett told the Pioneer. Jarrett, who was at the airport to watch Terri D.J. take off on Wednesday, July 8th, decided to become the organization’s local representative after he was the first Invermere resident to use the service last November.

“For me it was cancer appointments that I had to go to Kelowna for,” said Jarrett. “You’re so mixed up as it is, with cancer, it really helps to not have to drive all the way across Rogers Pass to Kelowna, or now to not have to drive down to Cranbrook, which can be a cold and windy drive in the winter. It’s a tremendous service to have right here in the Columbia Valley...I’m proud to be a part of it.”

The Angel Flights are free for any Columbia Valley residents needing to get to Kelowna for medical appointments.

“There’s no charge, and there’s no qualification other than you need to get there (Kelowna) for medical reasons,” said Jarrett. “You could be a pauper or a millionaire, it doesn’t matter.”

Continued on page 7. . .

Chisel Peak Medical Clinic is pleased to announce that Dr. Roberta Creighton and Dr. Stefanie Mclellan will be joining the clinic in a shared practice, starting September 1st, 2020. They will be filling the vacated practice of Dr. Stephen Arif. The clinic will be in contact with Dr. Arif ’s previous patients over the next few weeks.

Dr. Creighton and Dr. Mclellan have each been a locum in the valley for some time now and look forward to meeting all of their new patients, working together with you to meet all of your medical needs.

If you currently do not have a family physician and are looking for one, please feel free to contact the clinic at 250-341-6900 and we can add you to our waitlist. We will do our best to accommodate those on a first come first serve basis with the next available physician.

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4 • The Columbia Valley Pioneer

July 23, 2020

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RCMP Report Submitted by Sgt. Darren Kakuno Detachment Commander Columbia Valley RCMP This past week, July 13th through July 19th the Columbia Valley RCMP responded to 103 calls for service. The following is a summary of some of the files our officers responded to: During the early morning hours of Tuesday, July 14th a 2001 black GMC Sierra flat deck truck was stolen from a business in the industrial area in Invermere. Investigators are following up on several possible sightings from the public as well as reviewing video surveillance from the business. Anyone with information is asked to contact the Columbia Valley RCMP or Crimestoppers.

On Wednesday, July 15th police responded to a report of a break and enter at a residence in Windermere.

There was forced entry to the front door and extensive damage to several windows in the residence. Two youth were identified as suspects and followed up with by the investigator. Police are working with the owner of the residence, the youth, their parents and the Columbia Valley Restorative Justice Program to bring resolution to this incident.

On Thursday, July 16th police received a report of mischief to a house on Antler Ridge Road in Winder-

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mere. Several windows had been broken. Video surveillance is being reviewed and the investigation is ongoing.

On Friday, July 17th at about 4:20 p.m. an officer was conducting patrols in Windermere when he observed a person known to be a suspended driver operating a Honda Accord on Subdivision Road. The officer conducted a traffic stop and confirmed the driver was suspended from driving and the vehicle had no insurance.

The driver was issued violation tickets for no insurance, no driver’s license and operating a vehicle with the wrong number plate. The driver was also issued an Appearance Notice to attend court at a later date in relation to the allegation of driving while suspended. The vehicle was impounded for seven days.

On Saturday, July 18th at about 10:45 a.m. police received a report of a male acting erratically near the Kootenay Park Lodge in Kootenay National Park. An officer attended the area and located the male travelling on Highway 93 in a Volkswagen Jetta. The officer conducted a traffic stop and, during his interactions, became suspicious the driver had a drug in his body. The officer did a roadside sobriety tests and formed grounds to read a blood demand which the driver refused to comply with. As a result, the driver was issued a 24-hour driving prohibition and a 90day Administrative Driving Prohibition. The driver was also served an Appearance Notice to attend court in relation to the allegation of failing to comply with a demand.

It’s approaching that time of year again when apples ripen and attract bears into town. Groundswell Network Society’s Apple Rescue Program is aimed at preventing bears from entering town. Since the program launched in 2018 in Invermere, there have been no bear sightings reported to WildSafe B.C. during the apple season. This is the third year that Groundswell has run the program. Last year, about 2330 pounds of apples was harvested over the course of four weeks with the help of 28 volunteers.

The program also benefits the community in other ways. There is less food waste because apples are not being left on trees to rot and promotes food security. Community is strengthened as volunteers work

together to harvest apples. In addition, Groundswell is planning on using leftover apples for apple-related community events later in the summer.

Most of the apples go to the apple picking volunteers, followed by the food bank, local community organizations, and Groundswell events. We need volunteers to help pick apples.

This year, the program will run from around mid-August to the end of September depending on the number and availability of volunteers and when apples ripen. Email groundswellnetworksociety@ gmail.com, call 250 342 3337, or visit the Groundswell Greenhouse if you would like to volunteer or learn about the program. We are located on the corner of 15th Avenue and Westridge Drive in Invermere behind the high school.

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July 23, 2020

The Columbia Valley Pioneer • 5

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$879K grant from Canada Infrastructure Program The Westside Legacy Trail is nearing completion thanks to the support of a national grant geared toward building and sustaining inclusive communities.

The Markin-MacPhail Westside Legacy Trail and the Columbia Valley Greenways Trail Alliance (CVGTA) recently received $879,000 grant from the Canada Infrastructure Program to put toward completing a paved pathway connecting the communities of Fairmont Hot Springs and Invermere with a safe space for hikers, joggers and cyclists to exercise on the Westside Legacy Trail.

“We are tremendously grateful for this grant. Added to the incredible support from private donors, foundations and every level of government, we have now raised $9.2 million and will be able to finish the trail in 2020,” said Bob Shaunessy, chair of the fundraising committee.

“The program required private matching dollars to be eligible. This would not have been possible without over 1,000 private donors who stepped up to build the trail.”

Fifty-eight per cent of the $9.2 million raised came from government and public foundation grants with private financial contributions accounting for 42 per cent of the initiative.

“Our construction team is working flat out to prepare for paving the final sections of the trail. Hundreds of users a day are enjoying what we have so far, (and) it’s going to be spectacular when it’s complete,” said Gary Trigg, chair of the construction committee, noting that there were 25,000 user counts recorded which was an increase from the previous year which saw 22,000 users.

Lyle Wilson, chair of the CVGTA, added: “This is the largest project ever undertaken by the Columbia Valley Greenways Trail Alliance and we are really proud of this initiative. It will help our economy, tourism and add significant recreational opportunities for our community.”

There have been countless volunteer hours dedicated to the Westside Legacy Trail project and Wilson re-

marked how impressive the support, both volunteerism and financial aid, has been to get where it is today.

The Markin-MacPhail Westside Legacy Trail team anticipates the construction on the project will be completed before the end of this summer.

“It is incredible working with so many dedicated, talented people in the valley who are making this possible,” said Lianne Lang, project manager of the trail. “I can’t wait to celebrate the vision becoming a reality.”

Lang added part of the grant funding application was to facilitate engagement sessions with the Shuswap Indian Band and the Akisqnuk First Nation for consultation about the project plan.

“Infrastructure Canada provided us with a list of groups they wanted us to consult with and we sent letters and documentation outlining the project details for 2020 construction to both Shuswap Indian Band (SIB) chief Barbara Coté and Akisqnuk First Nation chief Alfred Joseph,” explained Liang. “This year, we are paving the final two segments and adding an additional 1.4 kilometre route at approximately the seven-kilometre mark to allow cyclists and trail users to get off the Westside Road completely. The Shuswap has been quite involved with our organization and future project planning. Chief Coté replied back with support.”

SIB interim lands manager Sierra Stump could not respond to the Pioneer’s request for an interview before the community newspaper went to press, but she e-mailed to indicate the SIB is supportive of this initiative.

In addition, the Akisqnuk First Nation invited Lang and Kathy Arney to present the details of the project during an in-camera session and provided verbal support on June 3, 2020.

“We do have some interpretative signage, which Chief Joseph originally consulted on back in 2017, and we were asked at this meeting (to) make some changes, which we have committed to doing,” said Liang, noting Anna Hudson and Yvonne Armstrong were heavily involved to represent the Ktunaxa’s interests.

For more information about the trail, please visit www.ourtrail.org

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Left to right: Tryg Strand and Kate Watt showcase the Westside Legacy Trail’s signage and the benefits for users from all walks of life.

File Photo

By Breanne Massey Local Journalism Initiative Reporter

MINI STORAGE

914 – 8th Avenue, PO Box 339 Invermere, BC V0A 1K0 Tel: 250-342-9281 • Fax: 250-342-2934

PERMISSIVE PROPERTY TAX EXEMPTIONS FOR 2021 Application forms for organizations which might be eligible for a Permissive Tax Exemption are now available at the Municipal Office, 914 – 8th Avenue and on our website at www. invermere.net under “Important Links” on the home page.

A Permissive Tax Exemption is a means for Council to support organizations within the community which further council’s objectives of enhancing quality of life and delivery of services economically. A Permissive Tax Exemption is strictly at the discretion of the District of Invermere Council.

The application forms are for a tax exemption for 2021 property taxes as per regulations set out in the Community Charter.

To be eligible, nature of the organization must be: • • • • •

Not for profit organization Charitable or philanthropic organization An athletic or service club or association Care facility or licensed private hospital Partner of the municipality by agreement under s.225 of the Community Charter • Other local authority • Organization eligible under s.220 statutory exemption (e.g. public worship, senior home, hospital) Deadline for the receipt of applications: August 14, 2020 at 4:30 pm local time.

Please call our office at 250-342-9281 if you require any additional information.

Karen Coté, Director of Finance

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6 • The Columbia Valley Pioneer

July 23, 2020

PERSPECTIVE Smiles and waves

Historical Lens

By Arnold Malone Guest editorial Years ago there were two interesting boys in a Hamilton, Ontario school. They were good friends. Also, they mimicked their teachers and political leaders. Taking on their voices and sounding surprisingly like the persons they impersonated One boy was Geoff Scott the other was Rich Little.

Most teachers thought Geoff could have a professional career doing impersonations, Rich, however, they weren’t’ so sure about.

Geoff went on to become a journalist and later a Member of Parliament. Rich enjoyed an amazing career doing impersonations and was a feature on radio, TV and performed several times for White House gatherings in Washington, D.C. It came to pass that I asked Geoff to be a guest speaker at a constituency event and attend a meeting at the far southeast corner of my Crowfoot Riding. The Crowfoot riding had a landmass larger than the smallest forty two countries at the United Nations. I lived on the boundary of the northwest corner.

When we left our farmyard to drive three hours to Acadia Valley, a village on the far southeast boundary, our closest neighbour, Lorenz, was driving towards us. There was a hardy wave and an exchange of smiles. Geoff wanted to know who that was. I told him about my very fine neighbour.

On route to Camrose we met numerous other car/ trucks and always there was a wave with smiles.

Now, on the prairies there is a community pattern of a town/village/hamlet every six to eight miles along a railroad line. Farmer families tend to know most everyone with in a circle of forty kilometres from their home.

They also recognize the vehicles others drive. Waving a greeting is a part of prairie farm culture.

After Camrose, we drove sixty five kilometres towards my hometown of Rosalind. I wanted to show Geoff where I grew up and the beautiful Battle River Valley. As we approached the village of Rosalind, again, we met many on coming vehicles and again I knew the occupants. True to culture, a lot more smiling and waving took place. Geoff was thunderstruck by this activity and voiced his amazement. This doesn’t happen in cities.

His amazement also excited that part of my brain that fosters mischief.

For the remainder of the three-hour drive, through farm and ranch country, I waved at every vehicle that came our way. Always there was a vigorous wave along with a hopeful smile. They hoped they knew you.

Continued on page 7. . .

Kootenay River Living These log buildings located on the Kootenay River South of Kootenay National Park (circa 1950) were built prior to 1930

by Bill Yearling and purchased in 1930 by Frank Rictcher. Rticher sold the property to Dix Anderson in 1947 to be used as a hunting lodge. During this time however, the lodge burned down. As of 2016, the property was owned by Lyle and Diane Wilson.

Image C2320 courtesy of the Windermere District Historical Society.

Industrial development Dear Editor: There is a virtual public hearing on Wednesday July 29th to get input on an application by Prairewind Development Corp. to allow light industrial uses on two entrances to Invermere (Athalmer Rd and Lakeview Dr.). Both the newly approved Lake Windermere Official Community Plan (OCP) and the zoning bylaw, designate the 10-acre site for commercial uses only. Due to the unsightly look of many light industrial businesses, they are typically located out of the view of the public. These uses include motor vehicle repair shop, welding/machine shop, construction industries, manufacturing industries, sale, truck transport, rental and repair of light equipment rental etc.

Despite contravening planning policies and zoning, development of a high-quality commercial/ industrial development will create jobs. Support for the application makes sense, however the public shouldn’t have to look at light industrial development when they drive, walk or bicycle by the site. Two

things can be done to solve this problem. First, follow up on the verbal commitment by the applicant there will be no outdoor storage. Include this in the Development Agreement between the landowner and the RDEK. Secondly, require the landowner build a wooden fence along Lakeview Drive to provide effective and continuous screening. The RDEK required wooden fencing of industrial uses on two recent developments where industrial uses were approved in commercial areas.

The RDEK and landowner say the issue of the public having to look at unsightly industrial uses can be dealt later when individual development permits are incrementally approved. However dealing with this now at the Bylaw Amendment stage allows for a comprehensive approach to solving the problem.

Screening will look haphazard if it is done piecemeal over time. Also, not all light industrial uses can be effectively screened independently. A fence could provide the necessary screening for such uses and no outdoor storage will greatly reduce the visibility Continued on page 7 . . .

The Columbia Valley

CANADIAN COMMUNITY NEWSPAPER AWARD 2013

Pioneer

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

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

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The Columbia Valley Pioneer is available free of charge at 13 essential businesses in the Upper Columbia Valley, limited to one copy per reader.

This publication has been made possible, in part, by the Government of Canada and the support of our advertisers and is published every Thursday. The Columbia Valley Pioneer may be distributed only by its authorized contractors and employees. No person may, without the prior written consent of The Pioneer or its Publisher, take more than one copy of each issue of The Pioneer. The content is protected by copyright. Reproduction by any means is prohibited except with the permission of the Publisher.

July 23, 2020

The Columbia Valley Pioneer • 7

The aircraft that Angel Flights East Kootenay used when it started simply did not have the radio and navigating systems necessary to land and take off at airports smaller than the one in Cranrbook. Upon hearing this the local Legion branch donated $10,000 and challenged other East Kootenay Legions to do the same. This fundraising efforts snowballed and eventually allowed the organization to upgrade to the radio and navigation system it needed to be able to land at airports such as Fairmont Hot Springs.

“It was just tremendous,” said Invermere mayor Al Miller, who was at the July 8th takeoff. “This service is going to be a huge asset to the Columbia Valley. Residents here can now fly directly from the valley to Kelowna for surgeries and other medical reasons at no cost.”

The aircraft can accommodate up to two patients at a time as well as a pilot and a co-pilot. “The two people who flew on Wednesday got to Kelowna in an hour and 45 minutes, instead of the six or more hours it would have taken them to drive,” said Miller. “It doesn’t matter if you are from Brisco, Edgewater, Radium, Invermere, Fairmont Hot Springs, Canal Flats or anywhere else in the valley, you can take this ride.”

The STARS air ambulance flies people to the Calgary hospital for emergency procedures, but Angel Flights East Kootenay transports people for regular scheduled appointments and procedures.

“So it’s more of a planned thing than STARS” said Miller. “That’s precisely what makes it unique and what’s going to make it work really well as a service.”

Angel Flights East Kootenay president Brent Bidston told the Pioneer that the organization had temporarily been grounded by COVID-19, but now that its back up and running and going into smaller airports throughout the region “requests for flights have gone up by more than 350 per cent.”

The organization is meeting the increased demanded, but has seen its operating funding reduced, partly because some of the larger operations donations it had received in the past came from donors who raise funds through large events.

“Nobody is doing those big events now, because of COVID-19, so there has been a drop (in funding,” said Bidston. “But we are still coping for now, we are still flying everybody that needs to fly to Kelowna.”

The smudging of the plane by Archie was “really great,” said Bidston. “We haven’t had that before.” The inaugural flight from Fairmont Hot Springs “all went very well,” according to Bidston. “The patients were grateful. All our patients are always very grateful when we can help them. It saves them quite a lot — all the cost of the drive, hotels, meals. It adds up and can get quite expensive.”

Anybody wishing to learn more, to access the service, to volunteer or to donate can do so by visiting the organization’s website at www.angelflightek.ca or calling 250-4301188. Bidston cautioned people to make sure they type the ‘ek’, which stands for East Kootenay, at the end of ‘angelflight’ when going to the website. “There are Angel Flight groups all over the world and we’ve had a few people go to the wrong website,” he said.

. . . ‘Industrial’ from page 6 problem. Finally there is no public input on development permits unless a variance is requested.

Creating a high-quality commercial/industrial area will benefit our local economy, permanent and seasonal residents along with visitors to Invermere. The RDEK Board of Directors can address the public’s concern with

the visibility of industrial and commercial uses at entrances to Invermere with two simple, yet constructive, recommendations. Make the landowner provide written confirmation there will be no outdoor storage and require them to build a wooden fence along Lakeview Drive.

Colleen Roberts Windermere, B.C.

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. . . ‘Smiles’ from page 6 Another characteristic of prairie culture is that when someone waves at you had better wave back. Otherwise you may be accused of being stuck-up. Many rural persons have been caught waving at on coming drivers who were reaching to pull their sun visor down or putting their hair in place.

So as the exchanges of waved took place I made up names such as, “Oh that was Fitzgerald Hepteperowski , he has a ranch just beyond those hills over there.” Thankfully, Geoff never asked me to tell more about a person we met some kilometres back up the road. I had to forget those past names to make room for the next lie.

After the meeting my trick was forgotten and we drove home in the dark.

Back in Ottawa, I was going for lunch in the Parliamentary restaurant where there are three alcoves assigned for each of the three larger political parties so they can eat with colleagues.

As I approached my alcove I paused, I could hear Geoff around the corner speaking to others: “It was utterly uncanny. We drove for hours upon hours and he knew every person in the riding and they all smiled and waved at him.” “No wonder he got elected.”

Lesson: Don’t believe everything you think.

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. . . ‘Angel’ from page 3

Every Sunday June 28 - September 26 10 am – 2 pm Fairmont shopping district

Radium Hot Springs Every Friday June 26 - September 18 4 – 7 pm Downtown Radium

Canal Flats Every Sunday June 28 - September 27 9 am – 5 pm

Golden

Kimberley

Every Wednesday June 17 - September 26 12 – 5 pm Spirit Square Downtown

Every Thursday June 18 - September 17 5 – 7:30 pm Between Kimberley and Howard

Spillimacheen Gardeners Market Saturdays during the summer and fall

8 • The Columbia Valley Pioneer

WOODLOT LICENCE PLAN Notice is hereby given that the following Woodlot Licence Plan is advertised for public review and comment: Tenure Number

Tenure Holder

Geographic Location

Woodlot License W0445

Kootenay Woodlot Education Society

Findlay Creek, 15 km west of Canal Flats

The plan identifies areas proposed for timber harvesting, road building, and silviculture activities.

The term of the plan is 10 years and begins on the date specified by the Ministry of Forests, Lands and Natural Resource Operations in approving the plan.

The plan was prepared in accordance with the Forest and Range Practices Act and the Woodlot Licence Planning and Practices Regulation.

The plan is available for public review and written comment at: #1-1630 Johnston Road, Invermere, BC, V0A 1K4 from July 24 to August 24, 2020.

Arrangements can be made to view this plan by contacting: Greg DuBois, RPF by phone (250-342-5610) or email (greg.dubois@telus.net).

Written comments must be submitted by mail or in person by September 1, 2020 to the address or email listed above to be considered.

(located in Fairmont Hot Springs)

We are thrilled to give a warm welcome to…

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Hop on to the Booking Calendar and get to know this fun, talented stylist today!

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Freshair Design • 250-342-6636 @dziredesigns

July 23, 2020

Commercial harvesting restrictions exclude valley

By Breanne Massey Local Journalism Iniative Reporter In an effort to conserve wild huckleberries to ensure Grizzly bears have an adequate food source, a commercial huckleberry picking restriction has been issued in the Kootenay-Boundary region.

However, the Columbia Valley remains exempt from the commercial huckleberry picking restrictions issued by the Government of B.C. in partnership with the Ktunaxa Nation Council to protect the ecosystem.

“It was intentionally excluded, as were most areas of the Kootenay-Boundary Region, and there is no other Public Service Announcement planned for this season,” said Tyler Hooper, Ministry of Forests, Lands, Natural Resource Operations and Rural Development by The Ktunaxa Nation Council and the Government of B.C. have successfully e-mail. “Current closure areas are lim- formed a partnership to restrict commercial huckleberry harvesting to ensure ited to specific smaller areas around Grizzly bears are not negatively impacted from a foraging perspective.

Creston, Yahk, Fernie and the Upper Getty images photo Flathead.”

Between July 15 and Oct. 15, the they’re supposed to be.”

Ministry of Forests, Lands and Natural Resource OperaHe noted the closest closure to the Columbia Valley tions have closed areas in the Kootenay Boundary region appearing on the Kootenay’s regional access restrictions such as: Goat River, Iron Creek, Kid Creek, Little Moyie, list was likely the Iron and Sand Creek area near Wardner.

Monk Creek, Sportsman Ridge and Summit Creek to Thomas explained the reason harvesting huckleberrestrict huckleberries from being harvested from Crown ries from a commercial perspective has also been a conLand. cern for the Shuswap for a couple of years has been due The Ktunaxa Nation Council advocated for environ- to the harmful approach of commercial harvesting techmental stewardship in the East Kootenay region to pro- niques. tect the Grizzly bear populations that could thrive in the “The use of rakes has been devastating to the area and area under optimal conditions. has been high, which is detrimental to the life cycle of the “In recent years, we’ve noticed increases in commer- bears,” said Thomas, noting that the use of rakes not only cial-scale huckleberry harvesting,” said Kathryn Teneese, removes berries but also removes the foliage of slow growchair of the Ktunaxa Nation Council. “The Ktunaxa Na- ing plants that provide a source of food to Grizzly bears. tion Council has been working closely with the province “In the past, what I’ve seen them (commercial harto identify areas that are key Grizzly foraging areas. It’s a vesters) do is take old tobacco cans and cut one-and-amajor food source for them.” half inch teeth on the bottom or so, then they rake that Akisqnuk First Nation chief Alfred Joseph were un- can through the bush, so it removes the berries but it available for comment before the Pioneer went to press. also removes any of the foliage. It takes everything off Between July 15 and Oct. 15, the Ministry of For- the plant and leaves it there, naked, and susceptible to ests, Lands and Natural Resource Operations have closed disease.” areas in the Kootenay Boundary region such as: Goat Hooper added the Ministry of Forests, Lands and River, Iron Creek, Kid Creek, Little Moyie, Monk Creek, Natural Resource Operations is aware of the issue with Sportsman Ridge and Summit Creek to restrict huckle- rakes and plans to monitor it going forward. berries from being harvested from Crown Land.

“We are discouraging the use of rakes and other meShuswap Indian Band councillor Mark Thomas was chanical harvesting devices this season as a best practice, disheartened to see the restrictions did not apply to the due to concerns it damages the huckleberry plant,” said Columbia Valley when the surrounding areas were suc- Hooper. “More engagement on the issues is planned over cessful in bringing about change in a positive way. the coming year.”

“We are happy that there are closures. It’s good that To learn more about which areas have been impacted they’re doing this now, even though it’s a bit late in the by the commercial huckleberry picking ban, please visseason,” said Thomas. “It’s better late than never, and it: http://www.env.gov.bc.ca/kootenay/eco/access.htm to hopefully it will keep the Grizzlies up in the woods where view maps.

Summer Art Show - Part 2 July 21 to August 15

Featuring Kate Hale, Alice Hale, Amanda Maglis-Long, Paulina Takarski & Neal Weisenburg P y n e lo g s g a l l e ry H o u r s a r e 11 - 4, W e d n e s day t H r o u g H s at u r day · W W W. CO LU M B I AVA L L E YA R T S . CO M

This space provided by

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July 23, 2020

The Columbia Valley Pioneer • 9

Wanted: Charlotte Small stories and artifacts

By Breanne Massey Local Journalism Initiative Reporter After reviewing the historical archives at the Windermere Valley Museum extensively, Windermere Valley Museum curator J.D. Jeffery discovered a deficit in their records about the reputation of a nationally historic woman.

Canada’s iconic geographer David Thompson was married to Charlotte Small and had 13 children together; while mapping out vast sections of western Canada by foot, horseback and canoe — including the Columbia Valley.

Jeffrey is asking the community to make submissions with historical accounts, photographs and artifacts to learn more about Small’s life as a fur trader’s wife and guide.

“I want to create relationships with our community groups and with the First Nations. Our displays only get better when information is shared,” said Jeffrey. “For me, I want to allow that relationship with the First Nations, or even the Métis to continue to grow.”

According to the Government of Canada, Small was born by a Cree mother on Sept. 1, 1785 and had a father who was a Scottish trader.

It’s believed that Small had Cree language skills from her mother’s ancestry and was a Métis person with extensive knowledge about travel and exploration in Canada.

Historical records from the Government of Canada indicate that 13-year-old Small married 29-year-old Thompson and explored more than 40,000 kilometres together in the Canadian fur trade through the Northwest Trading Company.

However, it is believed four of the couple’s children perished on their journey.

“At this point, I don’t know much about her,” Jeffery explained about Small. “It would definitely be an asset to get to know more about her. She was kind of behind the scenes and I think she deserves to be recognized as well, so it would be great to know more.”

As a result, the Windermere Valley Museum is accepting stories, recollections, photographs and general information about Small to help build up historical archives in the community.

To make a submission about Small, please call 250-342-9769 between 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. during the week or email wvmuseum@shaw.ca.

A statue of David Thompson and Charlotte Small featured at Pothole Park portrays the iconic Canadian couple. Jeffery noted the height of Small on the historic statue is significantly smaller than Thompson and was curious about actual heights of the couple.

Photo by Breanne Massey

NORTHSTAR on!

Resource, Development & Advocacy

KEEP IN TOUCH! Parent Chat will be offered via Zoom Tuesday’s from 7:30-8:30 pm and Thursday’s from 2-3 pm. Topics can include activity ideas, child care information, parenting tips, developmental milestones, mental health support, potty training and anything in between. Please email Melanie at mferster@familydynamix.ca or call 250-341-8678 for the Zoom link.

SUMMER PLAYDATE AT THE PARK! (under 6 years old with parent participation)

• Healthy Snacks • Story time • Songs • Free Play • Arts & Crafts 9:30 – 11:30 am Tuesdays starting July 21 – Invermere Potholes Park Wednesdays starting July 22 – Edgewater Community Hall Park Thursdays starting July 23 – Canal Flats Civic Centre Park

Free! Weather permitting.

Please bring picnic blankets to ensure social distancing, hats, appropriate clothes, sunscreen, and water bottles.

Questions? Call or text Melanie at 250-341-8678 or email mferster@familydynamix.ca

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10 • The Columbia Valley Pioneer

July 23, 2020

Healing the big river Photographer documents the Columbia mile by mile while chasing salmon dreams

By Steve Hubrecht steve@columbiavalleypioneer.com

Above: The Columbia River begins to wind down the wild and free flowing section immediately north of Lake Columbia. Below: Peter Marbach straddles the source and headwaters of the Columbia River in Canal Flats Photos by Peter Marbach

It was an afternoon like any other, only maybe more beautiful. Peter Marbach was on the slopes of Mt. Hood, scouting locations for a future photo shoot. It was mid June, late in the day, and the Sunday River was roiling below a washed out bank as Peter bushwhacked along the shore through underbrush beneath lodgepole pine and Douglas fir.

A consummate nature photographer, Peter has certain things he makes sure to look for: the right landscape elements for a striking composition, a spot that would catch great evening light, and in this case a new angle, a unique perspective, one that hadn’t been photographed before.

It was starting to look like all three might line up. Peter worked his way further upstream, hoping the river would give him a serpentine S-shaped curve. The sun shone, tree limbs rustled gently in the occasional breeze. The Sunday continued to bounce and burble as it streamed down from its source at the Sandy Glacier far above, en route to meeting the mighty Columbia, not too far away. It was as perfect a moment as life offers. And then Peter felt his heart flip upside down inside his chest.

“I had the sensation that my heart literally rolled right over. It was the weirdest damn feeling, and it wasn’t good,” Peter told the Pioneer. He went down the mountain and straight to a doctor. The doctor asked a few questions and then quickly did an electrocardiogram (EKG). The doctor left the room, and the minutes ticked by. Five minutes, 10 minutes, 15 minutes. It didn’t seem like a normal amount of time to confirm test results.

“When he (the doctor) came back in the room, he wouldn’t look me in the eye,” said Peter. “He told me ‘you’re heart is not getting enough oxygen’.” They scheduled Peter for an angiogram as soon as possible, a few days later. The angiogram showed things were even worse than suspected.

“They told me I was literally a few hours away from having a heart attack,” said Peter. It was as terrifying as it was unlikely for Peter, who was still young, in his early 40s and, as a lifelong outdoorsman, as fit and healthy as it gets. “It’d felt a bit fatigued for a few weeks prior, but that was it. No warning really, it just came up suddenly, almost out of nowhere.

Fate, karma, pure dumb luck – call it what you will, it was not on Peter’s side. And then all at once, just as abruptly, it was. A patient who was scheduled for heart surgery at the same hospital cancelled, and so Peter was wheeled directly into the operating room in this patient’s stead, barely an hour or two after walking in the hospital door.

“They said ‘we’re taking you in right now’. There was no time to consider. Outof-the-blue, emergency triple bypass surgery. It was pretty crazy stuff,” he said. “It all happened so quick. First the shock of finding out how close I was to checking out of this life, and then to be able to get into life-saving surgery with no notice at all...it was a rollercoaster, to put it mildly. I really do feel I’ve been given a second chance.”

The surgery was a success, and Peter was fixed. Biologically fixed, yes. That rollercoaster came to a stop. But another rollercoaster awaited: recovery, both psychological and physical, from nearly dying was anything but straightforward.

“Maybe it’s the shock of a near-fatal surprise like that, but you don’t just pick up where you left off with your life right after,” said Peter. “It takes time.”

For somebody used to rambling up mountainsides, it meant slowing down and taking things easy for quite a while.

“I spent a lot of time just sitting on the shores of the Columbia,” said Peter. “I spent a lot of time healing on the Columbia.”

It was a big change for Peter, going from gazing down at the Columbia to not being able to do more than plunk down on the river’s bank. Still he took comfort in the familiarity of the river. The coiled waters slipping by were like an old friend, appreciated from a new perspective.

Bit by bit Peter regained strength. He took to walking along the Columbia’s shores, noticing aspects of the watercourse that he never had before. What had been appreciation became fascination.

That fascination turned into something more one fine late winter morning eight months later, as he stood on the summit of Mt. Hood taking in the sunrise, having climbed under a full moon to get there. He’d taken his recovery slowly, but seriously, doing everything the doctors and physiotherapists recommended, being careful but doggedly persistent. And here we was, having just summited an 11,000 foot (3,300 metres) volcano. Better? Yes, you could say he was. And it felt great, the fresh, crisp air and the sunlight glowing on his face. He cracked a grin. Far below he saw the Columbia, snaking through the fabled Columbia River Gorge.

“How is it”, he thought to himself, “I’ve spent 13 years living on this river and I’ve never seen its source? I’ve scrambled up Mt. Hood, Mt. Adams and all the big peaks that loom over the Columbia Gorge. Most of the local streams near Hood River that Continued on page 11. . .

July 23, 2020

The Columbia Valley Pioneer • 11

Akisqnuk Chief Alfred Joseph contemplates the loss of salmon near Invermere, B.C. Inset: Randy Friedlander places salmon remains at Grand Coulee Dam. Photos by Peter Marbach

. . ‘Healing’ from page 10 feed into the Columbia, I’ve traced them to their sources and photographed them. But the Columbia herself? I’ve never seen how she starts.”

The sun rose higher in the sky as Peter stood fixed to the spot, recalling how the river — its calming, constant presence and its swirling currents — had helped him heal.

Another thought popped into his head, as urgent and clear as a thunder bolt: “Right there I made a promise to the universe to give something back to the river after the river had given so much to me,” said Peter.

And he knew almost instantly how he would say thanks to the Columbia. He’d spend ever spare moment and more travelling the length and breadth of the river. He’d photograph ever part of it from source to sea, in winter and in summer, in spring and in fall. He’d shoot the mountains and gorges and wild creatures around it. He would talk with the people who live along the Columbia. Young and old. Bigwigs and smalltimers.

First Nations chiefs, conservationists, and anybody else. He would tell the river’s story through images.

The more Peter thought about it, the more he dug into it, and once he started making trips up and down the Columbia, the more his idea grew. In the end he spent 12 years working diligently on the project, logging more than 350,000 miles (560,000 kilometres) on his 20-year old pickup truck as he did. The resulting book, Healing the Big River: Salmon Dreams and the Columbia River Treaty, came out earlier this year. Its official launch was to have roughly coincided with this past spring’s Wings Over the Rockies Festival, where he was slated to be a guest speaker. The COVID-19 pandemic cancelled the festival, and Peter’s presentation, but local residents and visitors can still find the book for sale online. Those that pick up the lavish coffee table volume will find quite a bit that is familiar: although the book covers every part of the river, Peter admits the watercourse’s headwaters — the Upper Columbia Valley — hold a special place in his heart (so much so that it even makes the book’s cover).

“The first time I stood at the source, just outside Canal Flats, watching those springs bubble up right out the ground, it nearly brought me to tears,” he said. “It was a kind of a pilgrimage for me, and very emotional. It’s hard to describe.”

It was in the Upper Columbia Valley that he met Shuswap Indian Band Chief Barb Cote and Akisqnuk First Nation Chief Alfred Jospeh, encounters that changed the format of his book. “I realized, wow, there’s really a good story here. This is the missing piece of my project. It was clear I needed to make something more than just a scenic book. And so it morphed into a much larger vision,” said Peter. He gathered written contributions from Chief Cote and 11 other people with deep connections to Continued on page 12 …

First Nations celebrate cultural release of salmon into the Columbia above Grand Coulee Dam, an event in the making for over 80 years.

Photo by Peter Marbach

12 • The Columbia Valley Pioneer

July 23, 2020

The Columbia winds to the horizon, viewed from summit of Mount Hood at sunrise. It was at this exact spot, at sunrise, that Peter Marbach decided to create his book as a way of giving back to the river.

Photo by Peter Marbach

A storm surge pounds cliffs at Cape Disappointment at the Columbia’s confluence with the Pacific Ocean Photo by Peter Marbach

Peter’s book Healing the Big River is available for purchase online. . . . ‘Healing’ from page 11 the Columbia, and these essays, in his opinion, are the heart of the book.

Some of the essays and photos touch on the enormous salmon runs that once came right up from the ocean to Lake Windermere. The Grand Coulee dam, completed in 1942, and other dams since, stopped those runs decades ago, but Peter began to feel that even in their absence, the salmon are present along the entire river. In conversations. In memories of true old timers. In family recipes still handed down through generations. In traditional festivals, such as the Columbia Salmon Festival jointly held by the Shuswap and Akisqnuk in Invermere, along the river banks. In the dreams of and advocacy of those hoping against all odds that one day, somehow, the salmon runs will be restored. It is these dreams that give the book its title.

But there’s more to the book than salmon and the Upper Columbia Valley. Almost every stretch of the river is covered: The glacier-clad peaks that feed the headwaters. The green glistening ecological jewel that is the Columbia River Wetlands. The deep and still dam-created lakes of Big Bend Country, with evergreen clad slopes rising above.

The dry, dusty, sagebrush-dotted shores of the Grand Coulee. The cleft of the Columbia River Gorge, cleaving the Cascade Range clear in two, leaving snowy volcanoes and wildflower strewn meadows on either side. And the fearsome, storm-tossed Columbia Bar where the river meets the Pacific Ocean, and where the roaring waves and treacherous shifting sandbars occasionally send oceangoing ships to the river’s bottom.

“I don’t know if there’s any other books on the entire Columbia, mile by mile,” said Peter. “To say it was a challenge is an understatement.”

Adding to the pressure was a self-imposed deadline. Peter wanted the book out before the Columbia River Treaty renegotiations are finished, which he managed to do.

The tenth round of the ongoing process was held digitally in late June.

“It’s perhaps a vain pipe dream of mine, but my hope is that maybe I can motivate people into action and provoke some thought. And if some of the government treaty negotiators somehow look at the book, maybe, just maybe I can inspire them to grow a moral spine,” said Peter.

The river helped Peter heal, and as much as he can, he wants to help the river heal, even a little bit, to help it regain a little of its former wildness.

July 23, 2020

The Columbia Valley Pioneer • 13

PUBLIC HEARING NOTICE – BYLAW 2997 Official Community Plan – Panorama The Regional District of East Kootenay (RDEK) Board of Directors is considering adoption of the Panorama Area Official Community Plan. An Official Community Plan is a long-term strategic planning document that will establish policies for land use in the plan area.

Bylaw No. 2997 is cited as “Regional District of East Kootenay – Panorama Area Official Community Plan Bylaw No. 2997, 2020.”

A public hearing will be held via Zoom webinar conference: Monday July 27, 2020 at 7:00 pm The Board has delegated the holding of this hearing to the Directors for Electoral Area F, Electoral Area G and the District of Invermere.

If you believe that your interest in property is affected by the proposed Bylaw, you may prior to the hearing: • inspect the Bylaw by viewing the Bylaw and associated Map Schedules at: engage.rdek.bc.ca or requesting that an information package be emailed to you by contacting kmacleod@rdek.bc.ca. Information packages may be requested up until Thursday, July 23, 2020 at 4:30 pm; • mail or email written submissions to the addresses shown below before Thursday, July 23, 2020 at 4:30 pm; • present verbal submissions at the public hearing.

You must pre-register in order to attend and provide verbal presentations or make comments at the hearing.

The deadline to register is Thursday, July 23, 2020 at 4:30 pm. Register in advance for this webinar: https://zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_pglmpGEPSKmyaKQmG_1EAg Please note that a question and answer period will not occur during the Zoom webinar conference. You must address any questions relating to the bylaws to the planning coordinator prior to the above date.

SUBMISSIONS CANNOT BE ACCEPTED AFTER THE PUBLIC HEARING

TO PRE-REGISTER visit the Meetings page on rdek.bc.ca and choose Public Hearings & Meetings

All submissions will form part of the public record and will be published in a meeting agenda posted online. Personal contact information such as phone and email will be removed from written submissions. Questions about the disclosure of your personal information may be referred to the Corporate Officer at 250-489-2791 or 1-888-478-7335.

This notice is not an interpretation of the Bylaw. For more information, contact Karen MacLeod, Planning Coordinator at 250-489-0313 or toll free at 1-888-478-7335 or email kmacleod@rdek.bc.ca.

PUBLIC HEARING NOTICE – BYLAW 2988 Bylaw Amendment – Windermere North The Regional District of East Kootenay (RDEK) Board of Directors is considering an application by Richard Haworth on behalf of PrairieWind Development Corp to amend the text of the zoning bylaw to permit additional commercial and light industrial uses on their C-3 zoned property. The subject property is located at 492 Lakeview Road fronting on Althalmer Road, near Invermere, as shown on the attached map.

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Bylaw No. 2988 cited as “Regional District of East Kootenay – Upper Columbia Valley Zoning Bylaw No. 900, 1992 – Amendment Bylaw No. 361, 2020 (Windermere North / PrairieWind Development Corp)” will amend the text of the zoning bylaw to permit additional commercial and light industrial uses on portions of the subject property.

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A public hearing will be held via Zoom webinar conference: Wednesday, July 29, 2020 at 7:00 pm

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The Board has delegated the holding of this hearing to the Directors for Electoral Area F, Electoral Area G and the District of Invermere.

If you believe that your interest in property is affected by the proposed Bylaw, you may prior to the hearing: • inspect the Bylaw and supporting information by requesting that an information package be emailed to you by contacting tvandewiel@rdek.bc.ca.

Information packages may be requested up until Monday, July 27, 2020 at 4:30 pm;

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• mail or email written submissions to the addresses shown below before Monday, July 27, 2020 at 4:30 pm; • present verbal submissions at the public hearing.

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You must pre-register in order to attend and provide verbal presentations or make comments at the hearing.

The deadline to register is Monday, July 27, 2020 at 4:30 pm. Register in advance for this webinar: https://zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_wJXifwjCToKEzKnf_2oitg Please note that a question and answer period will not occur during the Zoom webinar conference. You must address any questions relating to the bylaws to the planning coordinator prior to the above date.

SUBMISSIONS CANNOT BE ACCEPTED AFTER THE PUBLIC HEARING All submissions will form part of the public record and will be published in a meeting agenda posted online. Personal contact information such as phone and email will be removed from written submissions. Questions about the disclosure of your personal information may be referred to the Corporate Officer at 250-489-2791 or 1-888-478-7335.

This notice is not an interpretation of the Bylaw. For more information, contact Tracy Van de Wiel, Planning Technician, at 250-489-0306, toll free at 1-888-478-7335, or email tvandewiel@rdek.bc.ca.

TO PRE-REGISTER visit the Meetings page on rdek.bc.ca and choose Public Hearings & Meetings

PUBLIC HEARING NOTICE – BYLAWS 2995 – 2996 Bylaw Amendments – Windermere South The Regional District of East Kootenay (RDEK) Board of Directors is considering an application by Michael Dubois to amend the OCP and zone designations of part of his property to accommodate existing RVs which currently encroach onto the Residentially zoned land, and to permit the owner to subdivide the RV Resort from the residential dwelling on the property. The subject property is located at 1735 Cardiff Avenue in Windermere South.

Bylaw No. 2995 cited as “Regional District of East Kootenay – Lake Windermere Official Community Plan Bylaw No. 2929, 2019 - Amendment Bylaw No. 3, 2020 (Windermere South / Dubois)” will amend the OCP designation of the subject property from from R-SF, Residential Low Density to CR, Commercial Recreation.

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• inspect the Bylaws and supporting information by requesting that an information package be emailed to you by contacting tvandewiel@rdek.bc.ca.

Information packages may be requested up until Friday, July 31, 2020 at 4:30 pm;

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If you believe that your interest in property is affected by the proposed Bylaws, you may prior to the hearing:

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The Board has delegated the holding of this hearing to the Directors for Electoral Area F, Electoral Area G and the District of Invermere.

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A public hearing will be held via Zoom webinar conference: Tuesday, August 4, 2020 at 7:00 pm

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Bylaw No. 2996 cited as “Regional District of East Kootenay – Upper Columbia Valley Zoning Bylaw No. 900, 1992 – Amendment Bylaw No. 363, 2020 (Windermere South / Dubois)” will amend the subject property from R-1, Single Family Residential Zone to RES-1, Recreation Accommodation Zone.

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• mail or email written submissions to the addresses shown below before Friday, July 31, 2020 at 4:30 pm; St

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Please note that a question and answer period will not occur during the Zoom webinar conference. You must address any questions relating to the bylaws to the planning technician prior to the above date.

SUBMISSIONS CANNOT BE ACCEPTED AFTER THE PUBLIC HEARING All submissions will form part of the public record and will be published in a meeting agenda posted online. Personal contact information such as phone and email will be removed from written submissions. Questions about the disclosure of your personal information may be referred to the Corporate Officer at 250-489-2791 or 1-888-478-7335.

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You must pre-register in order to attend and provide verbal presentations or make comments at the hearing.

The deadline to register is Friday, July 31, 2020 at 4:30 pm. Register in advance for this webinar: https://zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_AMf3c_chRPejtsluoFmY0A

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• present verbal submissions at the public hearing.

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TO PRE-REGISTER visit the Meetings page on rdek.bc.ca and choose Public Hearings & Meetings

This notice is not an interpretation of the Bylaw. For more information, contact Tracy Van de Wiel, Planning Technician, at 250-489-0306, toll free at 1-888-478-7335, or email tvandewiel@rdek.bc.ca.

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

14 • The Columbia Valley Pioneer

July 23, 2020

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UNIVERSAL DOORS & EXTERIORS

Call for your FREE consultation and estimate JOIN YOUR CHAMBER AND REAP THE REWARDS! P. 250-342-2844 E. membership@cvchamber.com

Arnold Scheffer 250-342-6700

unidoorext@live.ca • unidoorext.ca

WETT Certified

Industrial ~ Commercial ~ Residential

SERVICES

WINDOW COVERINGS SHOWROOM

• Patches • Driveways • Crack Sealing • Parking Lots • Roads • And more!

• • • •

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

Kootenay Paving

Beat the fall rush ~ clean your Chimney this spring!

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

Toll Free 1-888-341-2221

Call now for a free quote!

Locally operated, with full-time staff to serve you better.

Plumbing • Boiler Systems

Andy Charette

CLEANING & MAINTENANCE ON ALL WOOD BURNING APPLIANCES • WETT INSPECTIONS

1756 Hwy 93/95, Windermere, B.C. V0B 2L2 Phone: 250-342-6500 • Fax: 250-342-3484

Fully Insured & WCB Covered

Rigid Plumbing Ltd.

E: rigidplumbing@hotmail.ca P: 250-341-5179

FREE ESTIMATES

Chimney and Eavestrough Cleaning and Repair Specialists

You name it!

I’ll take care of it!

YOUR ONE-STOP SHOP for all home maintenance from raking your lawn to renovating your entire house.

• Pruning and Removal of ALL Trees and Shrubs • Stump Grinding • Fully Insured & WCB Covered

OVER

30 YEARS EXPERIENCE

Keep your local businesses alive.

Get your tree services right here in Invermere!

Please call Steve ~ a real local you can trust! 250-342-1791

Professional • Lawn Maintenance Serving the Valley for over 20 years!

Scott Postlethwaite 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

Commercial

Resdential

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

Everett Frater Enterprises Cell: 250-342-5645 • efrater@telus.net

eastkootenayplumbing@yahoo.com 250-272-3374

July 23, 2020

The Columbia Valley Pioneer • 15

HERE TO SERVE YOU PHARMACIES

SERVICES

(Servicing the Valley since 1999)

NEW SEWER CAMERA

• Septic Tank Pumping • Portable Toilet Rentals

LANDSCAPING

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

Come in and browse our giftware

• 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

Landscaping & Design

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

2016

• •TTrucking•• Excavating T Earthworks • •• Civil •

• FireSmart• Equipment 62”x74” Brushcutter

Your Compounding Pharmacy

Quality not quantity

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

Sue Coy

1301 - 7th Avenue, Invermere

Bruce Dehart 250.347.9803 or 250.342.5357

Lloyd Wilder

250-341-5353 sdcoy@shaw.ca

250-342-6612

LANDSCAPING

250-342-5326 www.decoylandscaping.com lewilder@shaw.ca

INSURANCE

THE COLUMBIA VALLEY’S TREE CARE SPECIALISTS WINDERMERE, BC 250-341-7029

GOLDEN, BC 250-344-0188

INSURANCE AGENCIES LTD.

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

CONTRACTING

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

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

CONTRACTING 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 kekulibaycabinetry.com

Specializing in all heating, electric, gas and wood.

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

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

A licensed, registered and bonded company

www.kootenayinsurance.ca

We also offer roundthe-clock service calls.

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

Here to Serve You Advertising 250-341-6299

CONCRETE • Commercial concrete sealer • Ready Mix Concrete retarder for exposed • Concrete Pumping aggregate • Over 50 colours available • DELIVERED ON TIME and in stock at a fair price • Concrete stamps for rent • Full range of coloured release • Full range of sand and gravel products. agents for stamping

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

• 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 Pioneer Classified Advertising 250-341-6299

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)

Have an opinion? Email your letter to the editor to dauna@columbiavalleypioneer.com

16 • The Columbia Valley Pioneer

July 23, 2020

Courson vying for Métis director’s role this fall

By Breanne Massey Local Journalism Initiative Reporter After serving the Nelson and Area Métis Society as president for approximately 20 years, Don Courson plans to run for Region #4 director’s role to represent the Kootenay citizens with the Métis Nation of B.C. (MNBC).

The MNBC announced March 17 that the provincial election had been approved by the Métis Nation Governing Assembly (MNGA) for Sept. 10.

Courson will be campaigning against Columbia Valley Métis Association (CVMA) president Debra Fisher in the Sept. 10 election by for the opportunity to represent Métis citizens from the Elk Valley Métis Association in Fernie, the Kootenay South Métis Society in Trail, the Nelson and Area Métis Society (formerly known as the West Kootenay Métis Society), the Métis Nation and Columbia River Society in Golden, the Rocky Mountain Métis Association in Cranbrook and the CVMA in Invermere.

“The primary role is to represent the Métis Citizens and communities of the Kootenays at the MNBC and Metis National Council,” said Courson. “A political board position requires engagement with the local presidents of the seven communities to ensure and promote needs are being met and communication back to local presidents for updates.”

Courson believes representing Region #4 in a director’s position at the MNBC could be used to help with advocacy to gain support for Métis citizens with a blend

Don Courson of Kootenay culture through a wide variety of initiatives for chartered communities such as: education, health services, housing as well as employment and training.

“As a regional director, I hope to improve the communication and awareness internally and within the greater East and West Kootenay population,” he said, “we are a recognized Aboriginal people with equal rights as identified in our Canadian Charter. We wish to improve and support our First Nations Aboriginal partners in obtain-

ing and securing our place in the modern communities moving forward for our children and future generations.”

However, the growing concern to be recognized as Métis citizens nationally is front of mind for Courson, like it is for many other members located in chartered communities.

“Our local concerns are no different than other communities,” said Courson. “Recognition of our Métis history and Aboriginal rights, specifically identified as Section 35 rights in the Canadian Charter. These rights are further Clarified in the Daniel Supreme Court of Canada in 2016. We have a priority for recognition of our Métis Rights in B.C., which has not been confirmed, even though B.C. has proclaimed and accepted the United Nations Declaration of the Rights of Indigenous Peoples.”

Courson’s goal is to raise awareness about the Nelson and Area Métis Society as well as about the Kootenay region’s presence from a provincial and national perspective by participating in community events and advocating for political rights.

Courson feels that having served his chartered community in Nelson has helped prepare him for the upcoming election with MNBC this fall.

“I am proud of the past several years locally in increasing our voice, recognition in the community and participation in all West Kootenay Métis Community activities,” said Courson. “I am a strong voice for the people, I do not need to do this work, it is a challenge which I respectfully take on for our Métis community and members throughout B.C. and Canada.”

HERE TO SERVE YOU CONTRACTING

CONCRETE

CARPET CLEANING

Columbia Concrete Inc. 20 years’ experience • Anything concrete!

• • • •

Basements Garage pads Driveways Patios

• • • •

Decorative Exposed Stamped concrete Acid staining Serving the Columbia Valley

250-688-3739 I N

P U R S U I T

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

• Environmentally responsible • Steamed aggregate beds for top quality year-round concrete supply • We stand behind our service, quality and products

1756 Hwy 93/95 Windermere B.C. Office: 250-342-6500 • Toll Free: 1-888-341-2221

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

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

ptarmiganrugclean@gmail.com

Your Local Professionals

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

• Trusses • Engineered Floors • Wall Panels

COLUMBIA VALLEY REAL ESTATE

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

July 23, 2020

The Columbia Valley Pioneer • 17

P IONEER C LASSIFIEDS S IN MEMORIAM S

CHEERS & JEERS

CHEERS & JEERS

Louise Collier

A Huge Cheers to the lovely young couple who were directing traffic in both directions on Panorama Rd. to save our confused Alaskan Huskey on Monday July 13th morning. Much appreciated!

Jeers to the thoughtless, ignorant person(s) who destroyed the ‘Serenity’ Labyrinth just north of Wilmer on the west side road.

The Serenity sign is gone, the offer table is gone, and the rocks of the labyrinth are scattered. I was there only 2 weeks ago and was so impressed that I brought my grandkids to experience the feature. What a shame and bad example of selfish behavior.

has been gone for a year now.

I miss her every day. She had so many friends and I would like to thank you all for being there for her. Your phone calls and your visits. She enjoyed and appreciated you very much.

Barb - her Niece

ANNOUNCEMENT Alcoholics Anonymous. If alcohol is causing problems or conflict in your life, AA can help. All meetings are at 8 p.m.

Columbia United AA, Invermere: Saturday, Sunday, Tuesday and Wednesday at the BC Service Building, South End – 624 4th St., Invermere. Due to COVID-19 and the need to slow the spread of the virus, all other 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.

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.

CHEERS & JEERS Cheers to the entire Fairmont Community during my health issues. Much appreciated!

Cheers to our Alberta friends who follow protocols to protect themselves and us.

A Big Cheers to Family Dynamix for helping our community especially Dru Wagner you are an Angel!

Jeers to people not realizing that the Sheep are declining in Radium.

Cheers to our good neighbors on Fort Point the afternoon of Sunday, July 5th. The neighborhood was so perfectly quiet for our daughter’s wedding shower. Your thoughtfulness was greatly appreciated!

Huge Cheers to Jennifer at the Bank of Montreal, you sure helped “an old lady” sort out her banking problems. Cheers to the rest of the staff as well. You all take the time to help when needed.

Jeers to those inconsiderate boaters who insist on playing their music at peak volume so that the entire lake can hear it.

Cheers to the new Sushi Sawa restaurant in Fairmont. The sushi we had was fresh and yummy!

Cheers for giving this end of the valley a great new place to eat.

Cheers to businesses supporting other businesses. Together we are all successful!

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

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

BUYING OR SELLING CALL 250-341-1202

gerrytaft.ca Rockies West Realty Independently owned and operated

STORAGE NEWHOUSE STORAGE 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.

HOUSE FOR RENT For rent in Windermere 1,500 sq. ft. modular home on small acreage. 3-bdrm, 2 bath, w/d, wood stove, propane backup, available Oct. 1st. N/P, N/S, $1,300/mo plus utilities.

250-342-8334.

Windermere: furnished 1-bdrm home for rent September to May. N/S, pets considered, references required. $800/mo plus hydro. llccakamom@hotmail.com.

HOUSE FOR SALE 2,400 sq. ft. home situated on .62 of an acre in Windermere.

4-bdrm, 3 bath, walkout basement, large outdoor living space. $448,000. 250-342-8334.

WANTED TO RENT Urgently seeking housing.

Invermere teacher with excellent credit rental history and references. 2 bedroom w/ storage. Late August, 250-7850052, jhebdentaylor@yahoo. com

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

LOT/ACREAGE FOR SALE

MISC. FOR SALE

BUYING OR SELLING?

White Ikea Bookcase 70” x 30” $30. Black Evolution walker (large wheels great condition) $250. 5 high metal filing cabinet $200. Mahogany DoublePedestal Dining Room Set table 56” x 38”, 6 chairs, 1 leaf, $600.

Pristine, must pick up. 250-3428392.

I specialize in rural, recreational, farm and ranch properties.

BARRY BROWN-JOHN “Rocky Mountain Land Man”

Call or text

250-342-5245 b.brownjohn@gmail.com ELKHORN COUNTRY ESTATES Phases 1 and 2 sold out.

Selling Phase 3 now, only 3 lots left. 2.5-acre parcels.

Starting at $209,000 + GST. No building time commitment.

Phone Elkhorn Ranch 250-342-1268. www.elkhornranches.com ACREAGE FOR SALE 4.7 acres. Has its own gravelled access road from Kootenay #3 road already constructed. Drilled well, views, privacy. $219,000 plus GST. Phone Elkhorn Ranch, 250-342-1268.

CONDO FOR SALE Condo for sale (WPt). 2-bdrm/ den, f/f, top floor, mtn/lake views, walk to beach, price reduced $254,900, 403-9689222.

MISC. FOR SALE Edgewater Antique store 4845 Hammond ave. Open weekends 9-2pm “sometimes” 250-3425912 cool collectables buy, sell, trade consign.

12 ft. fiberglass car-top boat with 9 HP Viking motor $500 O.B.O., 12 cu. ft. Leonard lockable chest freezer $200 O.B.O. 1-403615-4502.

FIREWOOD Split Pine. We deliver. Call 250342-5481. 127 Westside Rd.

RV FOR SALE 2009 Komfort Fifth Wheel $19,500.

Model 292FS. Fully Equipped, 2 Slides. Ideal for a couple.

Located on a leased seasonal lot in Windermere B.C. Call 1-403617-2317.

SERVICES 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 Pike Contracting Excavating and Skid Steer services.

Call Jason 250-342-5277.

SERVICES LEE’S SMALL ENGINE REPAIR SHOP Specializing in chain saws, tillers, trimmers and lawn mower repairs and maintenance.

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!

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.

Experienced European Certified Cabinet Maker/Carpenter. 7 years working in Canada. No job too big or small. Free estimates given. Call (403) 619-8715.

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..

COMMERCIAL SPACE

LEASE OPPORTUNITY Fairmont Hot Springs 1,250 sq. ft.

Unit 3 Fairmont Village Mall CALL 250-341-7345 Or email: rhaynesmagellan@gmail.com

18 • The Columbia Valley Pioneer

July 23, 2020

Request for proposals

WE ARE HIRING! Full-time, year-round position

Columbia Valley Better at Home is looking for motivated

Self-employed Contract House Cleaners to provide light housekeeping for seniors.

Join our growing team…

Dental Receptionist We are looking for an enthusiastic person possessing great computer and accounting skills.

Contact Family Dynamix for details 250-342-5566 or 250-342-1110

Previous dental experience is an asset but not necessary as the right candidate will be trained.

If you enjoy being a part of a fun and hard-working team, this full-time position may be for you.

Please send your resume to drkanan2@shaw.ca.

Any inquiries will be kept confidential.

Family Dynamix acknowledges that we deliver services on the unceded territory of the Ktunaxa and Secwepemc people”

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

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

We’re Hiring at Crossroads Market!

Deli Personnel. Above average wages with a high season bonus package! Must be available for morning and evening shifts.

Both full-time and part-time positions available. Please apply in person at Crossroads Market or send resume to KGTLTD2020@ gmail.com or call 778-526-5085.

Pioneer Classifieds

SPOT THE DEALS!

Sunchaser Vacation Villas is currently seeking a:

LIVE ( AN D WO R K ) WI T H PASS I O N !

Everything with Passion is one of our core values and we believe it makes us the ideal place to start or grow your career…or maybe just a great place to spend your summer.

MAINTENANCE LABOURER The successful candidate should have a wide variety of basic electrical, plumbing, appliance repair, general building maintenance experience related to the care and upkeep of guest condos, resort buildings, recreation centre and mechanical rooms. This position requires standing, sitting, walking, lifting, reaching, learning, problem solving, and interacting with others throughout the workday.

The applicant must: • • • • •

be able to work weekends and statutory holidays; hold a valid BC Driver’s Licence; have a driving record in Good Standing; be able to lift up to 50 lbs.; be proactive, flexible, and able to meet deadlines and work under pressure.

• have the ability to follow direction and standards set by the Resort.

We offer competitive wages and a great working atmosphere, apply now! Please send your resume with a cover letter to:

If you are passionate about living a lifestyle rich in outdoor experiences and working with a company that offers perks such as complimentary skiing, golf and mineral hot pools, and competitive compensation and benefits, check us out at www.fairmonthotsprings.com

Email: jobs@sunchaservillas.ca Fax: Attention: Employment at 1-250-345-6166

We are currently hiring for the following positions: Room Attendant Grounds Labourer RV Grounds Attendant Security Officer

BUSINESS FOR SALE

Full-time Centre Manager

FULLY RESTORED

FOR SALE 100 Year-Old

• CANADIAN PACIFIC FREIGHT TRAIN •

Ideal for:

The Centre Manager is responsible for creating programs for youth 12 – 18 years in a variety of settings and manage all aspects of the drop-in centre; Including staff, administration, promotion and fundraising.

The ideal candidate will be able to demonstrate a passion for working with youth and an in-depth understanding of youth issues and possess the following: • 2 years of experience working with youth • Diploma in Human Services or Social Services field an asset • Standard First Aid, Food Safe, Mental Health First Aid for youth an asset • Understanding of working with a not for profit organization • Will be outgoing, energetic and collaborative with other youth based organizations • Have a basic understanding of accounting and working within a budget • Excellent time management skills, ability to work independently, managing multiple priorities • Working knowledge of Microsoft office products • Be tech savvy • Experience with grant writing • Class 5 driver license and own transportation A clear criminal record check and references a must.

Reporting to the President and in coordination with the Board of Directors.

• Tourist Business • Studio • Workshop • Guest Home • Unique Accommodation

37.5 hours/week: must be available evenings and some weekends.

Potential start date: August 1st, 2020.

• 1913 CPR Caboose No. 436504 • 1913 CPR Outside-braced Wood Box Car

Due to COVID-19 protocols, the Drop-in Centre may not be open until it is safe to do so. Outdoor activities will be encouraged as permitted.

Forward resume and a cover letter before July 24, 2020 to Sherry Doerr; sherry.summitcentre@gmail.com Only potential candidates will be contacted for an interview.

$59,000 ~ Serious inquiries only 250-426-9857 • goodmedicinefoundation@gmail.com N E W S PA P E R

amanda@columbiavalleypioneer.com

Please recycle this newspaper

July 23, 2020

The Columbia Valley Pioneer • 19

Local writer makes first foray into fiction Columbia Valley jack of many trades launches debut novel

By Steve Hubrecht steve@columbiavalleypioneer.com Local freelance journalist, occasional Pioneer freelancer and roving jack of many trades James Rose has just released his first work of fiction, Chung Piece.

The novel traces the tale of fictional freelance journalist Meko Torres, a newcomer to utlra-glitzy, uber-wealthy Aspen, as a seemingly simple crime-beat assignment catapults him deep into the fabled ski resort’s dark underbelly. The quick-paced thriller is a genuine page turner, and equally impressive is the speed with Rose turned his story idea into a published novel: he began writing in December and barely half a year later the book was out. Rose chalks it up to spending this past winter as a ski coach in Aspen, and wanting to fill his mornings with “something productive”.

“I didn’t even outline the novel, there was no framework,” said Rose. “It was kind of freewheel writing, with your pants on fire.” (The Pioneer can attest this is a new approach for Rose, and that even when submitting short freelance features for the local newspaper, he often creates exacting story maps).

“So it was really rough, and it need quite a lot of refining,” Rose told the Pioneer. “But that was what I wanted: to try something different. Every time I sat down, it was all James Rose spontaneous and improvisation...It was a lot of writing the character, Meko, and letting him react to what was going on-the-spot using an honest-to-goodness old fashioned typewriter in the Invermere’s on in his environment, being a catalyst in his environment, and then letting him go Farmers’ and Artist Market. Or in the Calgary boardroom of the Business of Energy where he seemed to be going.”

(BOE) Report, a media company he helped found. Or coaching skiing up at Panorama.

Readers familiar with Rose might spot a hint of autobiography in the novel. Meko Or at the coffee and chocolate company he runs with his brother. (Their Rose Bros java Torres is a wandering freelance journalist in the twilight of his 20s, who moved to As- and chocolate bars are available in local grocery stores, if you are interested). Or rubbing pen for a winter, an outsider in a gilded paradise, and who gets sucked into the culture shoulders with business and tech pals in San Francisco and Singapore. Or...well you get of the place. Which is a pretty fair description of the peripatetic Rose, particularly this the idea. Indeed more than a few valley residents regard Rose as something akin to the past winter. But Rose is quick to point out that whereas he was intrigued by the subcul- Columbia Valley’s own international man of mystery. ture of Aspen – the bizarre mix of super-rich and dirt bag ski bums, all plunked down But ask Rose about the many hats he wears, and the many places he hangs them, in rural Colorado — Torres gets pulled into the resort’s social fabric in a much darker and all you encounter is aw-shucks humility.“I guess I’m just an inherently curious perway. Also, Torres gets COVID-19 in the novel, which Rose did not. “Yes, that’s pure son. I want to experience new things, so I just follow my nose,” he said. fiction, thankfully,” said Rose with a laugh. “But I had to write about it (COVID-19) The book is self published, a process the entrepreneurial Rose relished. “It was in the novel. It was just too big a deal while I was there in Aspen to ignore in the book.” an amazing learning curve to go through, and I love how it’s totally independent,” he Rose found being a newcomer in Aspen, and wanting to write about it, was a great said, adding that where many others see a decline in terms of the traditional publishing way to learn about the town in a hurry. model, he sees new opportunities. “In a lot of ways, these days, authors are empowered “Aspen is one of those places that really has a reputation. There are supposedly to build their own platform. You’re responsible not just for writing the book, but for something like 60 billionaires in a town the size of Canmore. The degree of wealth is getting it out there, and really for all aspects of it. It’s exciting.” Invermere designer staggering and you see it on display everywhere. And yet there all these hippies, artists Sarah Bennett helped Rose with the cover design. and ski bums living pay cheque to pay cheque. It makes for a great setting,” he said. “I Rose is eager to keep the torrent of fiction flowing, and with Chung Piece finished, started the novel in the form of Meko’s journal entries. Basically his journal reflections he is hard at work on a series of three novellas, each with different characters, but with on the town in the novel mirror mine when I first got to Aspen. I like that kind of social a connective narrative tissue running through them, and each with some connection to realism in fiction. It’s easy to take a place for granted and forget the things that make it 1950s Cuban jazz. (In case you’re wondering, Latin jazz is another of Rose’s many and special. But as a newcomer all those things stand out. You can make those-fly-on-the- varied passions). If all goes well, these should be out later this summer. wall observations.”

In the meantime Chung Piece is available in paperback and e-book formats through These are exactly the kind of observations Rose excels at, and they come fast and Amazon or through Rose’s website jamesrosewrites.com. There’s a chance he may even furious for all kinds of publications, since Rose changes his surrounding as deftly and as release the novel as an audio book or a series of podcasts in the near future, and he is often as a chameleon. You may find him banging out typewritten stories, churned out looking at getting Chung Piece into the local libraries in Radium and Invermere.

Online dance party set to take valley by storm

By Steve Hubrecht steve@columbiavalleypioneer.com If the COVID-19 pandemic has you just itching to get out and get your feet tapping at a rockin’ good dance party with a whole crowd of people, well, you’re in luck. No, the pandemic is not over yet. But you can join in the Columbia Valley’s free virtual dance party this coming Friday evening.

The singularly unique event is the collaborative effort of local DJ David Gale and Invermere events coordinator Cortney Pitts. All you need to do is grab a digital device with an online connection and clear your schedule between 7 p.m. and 9 p.m. on Friday, July 24th. A few good dance moves are of benefit too. But if your dance style makes for a better Napoleon Dynamite impression that locally

renown Invermere Farmers’ Market impersonator Japhy Hunt’s, well hey, don’t worry: nobody will see unless you choose to hit the ‘share’ button.

“It was David’s idea. He approached the district,” said Pitts. “There’s never been anything like this in Invermere that I know of, but there have been about a dozen in Alberta and they’ve been pretty successful.”

The dance party, which is free, will be audio only but will be interactive through Facebook, with people able to post photos and videos as the event unfolds. Gale will act as DJ, producer and host, and he and Pitts are hoping as many people as possible from Brisco in the north to Canal Flats in the south and all points in between tune in.

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20 • The Columbia Valley Pioneer

July 23, 2020

Being an encourager

By Pastor Wayne Frater Radium Christian Fellowship Church

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 service which starts at 10:30am Sundays.

Recorded services can be accessed by typing WVSM Invermere Anglican United Church.

250-342-6644 • www.wvsm.ca

VALLEY CHRISTIAN ASSEMBLY Sunday 10 a.m. Worship service 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

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

CHURCH OF JESUS CHRIST OF LATTER-DAY SAINTS

The Pioneer can

!

take you r do llar With 4,400 copies far in circulation each week, th er your message is resonating

N E W S PA P E R

www.columbiavalleypioneer.com

•Average Water Temperature: 19.9°C •Average Water Depth: 5.3m •Average Turbidity: 1.3 NTU •Average D.O.: 8.49 mg/L •Average pH: 7.9 It was a beautiful warm morning on the lake today! As water levels are getting lower, floating vegetation on the South end of the lake is becoming more prevalent.

Water temperatures have hit a 2020 record with an average of 19.9°C. The temperature was above 20°C at both our . . . ‘Online’ from page 19

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

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

Lake Windermere pulse check for July 21 Submitted by Lake Windermere Ambassadors

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

with residents and visitors alike.

A few days ago feeling somewhat discouraged I was reminded of what David said in Psalm 18, it is very encouraging, verse1-3 especially “ I will love thee, O Lord, my strength. The Lord is my rock, and my fortress, and my deliverer; my God, my strength, in whom I will trust; my buckler, and the horn of my salvation, and my high tower. I will call upon the Lord, who is worthy to be praised: so shall I be saved from mine enemies. And down to verse 46. “The Lord liveth; and blessed be my rock; and let the God of my salvation be exalted.”

I was encouraged, and like David, I began to think of all the great things the Lord has done in my life, salvation, healing, protection, blessing upon blessing.

David cries out to God, and tells Him, “I love you Lord” those words should start each day for us, we should realize that it is all about Jesus, and what He did for us, we should cry out as David did, “I love you Lord.” He is our strength, our rock, our fortress, our deliverer, our

refuge, our shield, our place of safety, a place were He can protect us from all the enemy would throw at us.

Not only should we start each day, realizing what Jesus did for us, we should be telling others, It should be ongoing in our lives, we should be building those around us up, we should be encouraging one another in the Word, there are times when we all need encouragement, ultimately the Lord is our great encourager, but if we want to be really blessed, we should be a encourager.

Romans 15:1,2 “We then that are strong ought to bear the infirmities of the weak, and not to please ourselves. Let every one of us please his neighbour for his good to edification.” And down to verses 5,6 “Now the God of patience and consolation grant you to be likeminded one toward another according to Christ Jesus: That ye may with one mind and one mouth glorify God, even the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ.”

And verse 13 is a prayer, my prayer for you today “ Now the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing, that ye may abound in hope, through the power of the Holy Ghost.”

And again what it says in Psalms 18:46, it is a song we sing sometimes in praise and worship at church.

“The Lord liveth; and blessed be my rock; and let the God of my salvation be exalted.”

From that overflow, be a encourager. As you encourage you will be encouraged.

“It is different. But we are all adjusting and changing with times,” said Pitts. “In some ways it’s kind of hard to explain, but once people jump on board they will have fun with it. It’s been a tough few months for all of us, adjusting to the new normal. This is a great way to connect the whole Columbia Valley community...it’s kind of like a radio station, but a radio station that’s geared specifically to the valley. It will be fun, it will be unique. The more you engage with it, the more you’ll get out of it.”

For a full step-by-step run down of how to participate visit the Invermere B.C. Events page on Facebook, but a here’s a brief recap to give you an outline: Start by getting as many of your friends as possible interested for the event. You can invite them through Facebook and other social media. If you want to be able to make song requests for the party, you’ll need to download the ‘euroAPP’ to your smartphone. (You can find the app by searching ‘streaming DJ’ on the App Store or on Google Play). Log into the stream at europroductions.ca/streamnow.html at 6:45 p.m. on Friday. At this point you’ve joined the party and can request music in

North and Middle sample station which is an increase from last week’s water temperature of 18°C. It was nice to see a few early risers taking advantage of the flat morning waters for watersports as well as lots of water birds.

We’re excited to hopefully be taking volunteers out soon, if you’re keen on joining us send an email to Clare at 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 for their support of our lake monitoring program!

real-time through the app. The whole Columbia Valley will be listening to the same music at the same time.

You can just enjoy the tunes, but if want to make things even more fun you can post photos and videos to social media and can participate in contests throughout the evening for prizes donated by local businesses.

Gale and Pitts are encouraging participants to get creative and dress up in costumes and even decorate their homes if they like. They are also encouraging local businesses to get involved to engage with the Facebook event page the night of the dance party, by posting pictures, commenting on videos and (beforehand) by promoting the event on their own social media pages. Participating in the event is great promotion for the businesses — on par with or even better than a radio station — pointed out Pitts, adding the event can serve as a platform to mention that they are open and ready for business. Donations are welcome for prizes from businesses that want to participate. Individuals and families can also help support a local business by buying a prize from a local business for one of the dance party contests. These can be dropped off to the district of Invermere municipal office. For more info see www. facebook.com/events/380376239597231/.