Columbia Valley Pioneer - February 6, 2025

VALLEY NEWS

Cold Spring Creek project nearing end

Columbia Valley Pioneer staff

The RDEK is urging people to stay out of the Cold Spring Creek area as the debris flow mitigation project reaches a significant milestone towards completion.

Electoral Area F director Susan Clovechok says there is still additional work required before full completion, but she expressed her excitement that a new barrier is now fully functional in the event of a debris flow incident.

The area remains an active construction zone and is closed to public access due to a number of unseen safety hazards.

“We cannot stress enough the importance of people staying out of the work area. It is signed and fenced, and we are asking people to respect the closure and stay out,” Clovechok said.

Once weather conditions improve in the spring, the insulation covering the structure during the cold winter months will be removed. Work will resume on railings, minor earthworks, seeding and site cleanup. Permanent fencing will also be installed on the barrier itself.

The project was the subject of a public information session on January 28 when RDEK officials presented the update and answered questions.

Tom Smith, engineering services supervisor, explained how the concrete structure will work. Any amount of debris or rock will accumulate in the debris basin, which is upstream from

the new barrier. This debris will subsequently be removed.

“We now have a way, a nice catchment area to collect all of the debris that comes in (which will be removed by heavy equipment over time),” Smith said.

During question period, one homeowner said she is now paying about $500 per $500,000 of assessed value and expressed worry that figure will double to $1,000 with future projects.

Chief Financial Officer Holly Ronnquist said last year homeowners paid $376, but her numbers don’t include the collection fee from the province, which is 5.25 per cent. So that brought the figure up to $396 for the average residential property.

“This year we are looking at $374 (for the average property).”

Ronnquist said it’s hard to tell what property owners will pay for future projects. “We have to know what the cost is . . . I don’t know if it (taxation) would double . . . I’m not quite sure.”

Ronnquist said the RDEK is building reserves in the next five years, so “that would help with the cost of the next project if we need to do one.”

It was noted that grant funding has covered more than 98 per cent of the $13.6 million Cold Spring Creek project, which is slated for final completion in early summer 2025.

To learn more about the project or get the latest updates, visit: https://engage.rdek.bc.ca/debris.

Above, the concrete outlet structure. Bottom photo shows the Cold Spring Creek debris flow mitigation barrier (covered to protect it from the elements). The project is nearing final completion. PHOTOS RDEK

Paramedics always

Submitted by Road Safety at Work

Paramedic Sara Nelson’s job is to save lives. Yet she often finds her own safety on the line as she provides emergency medical care on the roadside.

The reason? The actions of drivers around her.

“One of my biggest concerns out there is getting hit by passing cars,” she says.

It’s a concern shared by thousands of other British Columbians who also work on the roadside. They provide services ranging from construction to road and utility maintenance to towing disabled vehicles.

Roadside work takes place year round in B.C. Winter conditions make it even more dangerous. Slippery roads and poor visibility make it harder for drivers to control their vehicles, which pass within a few metres of workers like Nelson.

“Sometimes we're right there on a curve and drivers just don't expect us to be there,” she says.

B.C. law requires drivers to slow down and move over whenever they see a vehicle with flashing lights on the side of the road. That’s also the safest thing to do whenever any worker is on the roadside, whether it’s a truck driver securing a load or a municipal worker clearing a storm drain.

“Everyone deserves the right to feel safe at work,” says Trace Acres, program director for Road Safety at Work and spokesperson for its workzone safety awareness campaign.

“When people work around traffic, they’re counting on drivers to give them plenty of room.”

WorkSafeBC statistics show that nine roadside workers were killed and 251 were injured seriously enough to miss work from 2014 to 2023.

“Slowing down and moving over is a vital responsibility,” Acres adds. “Our driving decisions can help people working at the roadside make it home safe each day to their loved ones.”

Nelson and other paramedics follow strict safety protocols when providing assistance at crash scenes. They wear high-visibility clothing, turn on the ambulance’s flashing lights, and set out reflective triangles around the vehicle. Even with those precautions in place, close calls happen.

“Some drivers just zoom right past us,” Nelson says. “It's scary knowing that just one careless driver could put me or my patients in serious danger.”

Road Safety at Work offers the following tips for drivers to help keep themselves, their passengers, and workers safe around roadside work zones:

• Slow down and drive with care.

• Pay attention and leave your phone alone.

• Obey road signs, traffic control devices such as cones and barrels, and traffic control people.

Nelson encourages drivers to respect the rules and the workers. “You’re helping to protect the lives of those who are out there helping others.”

Paramedic Sara Nelson frequently contends with passing traffic as she responds to driving-related medical issues.

PHOTO SUBMITTED

Invermere website redesign to cost $100K

By Steve Hubrecht  steve@columbiavalleypioneer.com

The District of Invermere has given second and third reading to its municipal budget that includes $100,000 for a website revamp.

There were a few changes to the budget since its first reading, and one of the new items — a redesign for the district’s website – is prompting comments and concerns from some councillors and from the public gallery at the meeting.

The website redesign will cost $100,000, and the money to pay for it will come from some of Invermere’ leftover provincial COVID-19 restart grants.

Councillor Theresa Wood asked if $100,000 was a ballpark figure or an uppermost limit.

“It is an absolute maximum,” replied Invermere chief financial officer Karen Cote.

New Invermere chief administrative officer Dean McKinley added that in the research he’s done he found many B.C. municipalities spend between $90,000 and $120,000 on website revamps. He said that even at $110,000 to $115,00 many municipalities must monitor the project and manage the costs “very closely.”

Website redesign is “a lot of work and takes a lot of time,” explained McKinley, adding that a simple WordPress site is inexpensive “but if you want something a little more functional for people using it, it quickly becomes more complicated.”

Councillor Gerry Taft balked, saying “there’s got to be a way to do it that is more cost effective.” There are plenty of small businesses in Invermere with great websites, noted Taft, adding he doubts any of them spent $100,000 on their sites.

Taft questioned just how much improvement the district’s website needs.

“Our current website may be clunky, but all the stuff is there,” he said, later noting that $100,000 “is ridiculous.”

The public gallery was small at the meeting, numbering just five people, but two of them commented on the cost of the website.

“I hope you can do better than that. It really sucks for taxpayers,” said Trevor Pryndik.

Ryan Neal concurred that “$100,000 is a lot” although he did add that “I agree, as someone who uses the website often, it is not always easy to navigate . . . file management sometimes seems like ‘luck of the draw.”

The District of Invermere is discussing revamping its website at a cost of $100,000.

Wildsight urges action on Lake Windermere

By Steve Hubrecht  steve@columbiavalleypioneer.com

Local environmental group Wildsight is pressing Invermere council to take steps to reduce recreation pressure on Lake Windermere.

Wildsight Invermere branch president Tracy Flynn sent a letter to council outlining the group’s concerns, many of which stem from the two-year recreational carrying capacity study commissioned by the Lake Windermere Ambassadors, and which was released in full last August.

Flynn also attended last week’s council meeting, urging action.

The letter referenced the study, and in it Flynn wrote “we were alarmed to read the overall conclusion – there are long-term threats from boating activity to lake health, source water protection and habitat values on Lake Windermere.”

She noted these are in addition to Wildsight’s “ongoing concerns around unmanaged dock and buoy proliferation — 936 docks and 431 buoys were counted on Lake Windermere for a total moorage of 1367 in 2022, and the result is cumulative impacts that war-

rant immediate action.”

In the letter Flynn and Wildsight asked Invermere council to review the study and a webinar on the study hosted by the Ambassadors, adding “we hope you’ll agree that we need to address the effects of escalating recreation pressure on our lakes.” They encouraged council to engage other local and regional governments and First Nations who may share in jurisdiction over the lake.

Flynn addressed council during public question period. “It’s nothing new. It’s a contentious issue,” she said.

Flynn pointed to past examples where Invermere council members have said they can’t do much about the lake as it is not within their jurisdiction. “But I believe it squarely is,” she said.

Flynn noted that after a recent review of federal Vessel Operation Restriction Regulations (VORR), the federal government seemed more inclined to give jurisdiction to local municipalities. She did note that it can still be “quite a process” and would require the District of Invermere to work together with the Regional District of East Kootenay (RDEK), the Shuswap Band and the Akisqnuk First Nation.

Wildsight is encouraging Invermere council to act on last year’s lake study.

Trade war scare

won’t

Historical Lens PERSPECTIVE

be the end

As predicted, US President Donald Trump is utilizing every ounce of power to change all of the things he despises, such as immigration and individuals who don’t share his ideologies (they are ‘fired’ faster than those on The Apprentice TV show).

Anyway, Canadians had to laugh when Trump recently suggested that Canada become the 51st state. While that is never going to happen, the disturbing fact is he wasn’t kidding (and still isn’t).

Relations between Canada and the US are on a rocky slope since Trump threated to implement whopping 25 per cent tariffs on Canadian imports, which would have devastating impacts on this country. But thankfully a couple of last-minute meetings with PM Justin Trudeau diverted a nasty trade war (for now) when Trump agreed to hold off on the tariffs for 30 days. This came after Trudeau outlined Canada’s billion-dollar plan to strengthen border security against illegal migrants and drugs, which is what Trump wanted to hear.

Canada was all set to fire back with its own counter-measures if Trump’s tariff plan proceeded as planned. Retailers were pulling US liquor products from store shelves, and Canadian consumers were encouraged to buy local and shun American products as a show of solidarity (more people are reading the labels now).

This American bully was more than prepared to risk a long-standing trade partnership with the stroke of a pen. Perhaps it was all a scare tactic to get Canada to act on the president’s “to-do” list. Well, it worked, and it probably won’t be the last time that Trump shoots from the hip in the O.K. Corral.

Good on the Canadian government for not backing down at a critical moment, saving countless jobs and businesses. But uncertainty still lingers. What happens in 30 days?

While Trudeau has been the author of his own demise, he will be able to tell his grandchildren that he saved Canada from economic catastrophe.

Lyonel Doherty, editor

Macdonald wasn’t a hero

The following is a response to the column Fresh Old Ideas by Arnold Malone that appeared in the January 16, 2025 edition of the Columbia Valley Pioneer

I will begin with the writer’s final paragraph that states, “… history has been recorded and facts must not be altered to assist an argument.” To which I will add my own words: Neither should facts be omitted to assist an argument.

The subject in question is Canada’s first Prime Minister, Sir John A. Macdonald, whom the writer extols as “the main architect of the BNA Act” and credits with having “tripled the size of Canada with the most ambitious internal project … the building of the Canadian Pacific Railway.”

The columnist laments that Macdonald “has been the primary victim of this nonsense” … the word “nonsense” being used to describe the actions of “well intentioned yet misguided people with an imagined disgrace about our early leaders and who want to expunge their names forever,” and “preach about a sin-

gle objection while ignoring the conditions of the time and the overwhelming good that these amazing leaders provided.” While the writer also mentions Macdonald’s efforts towards obtaining suffrage for women and Black persons, in my response I will only address the first Prime Minister’s involvement vis-à-vis Canada’s Indigenous peoples – in deference to space considerations.

In a balanced view of Macdonald’s legacy, I too give him credit for his tenacious pursuit of Canadian nationhood, eventually setting Canada on the path to independence from its colonial parent, while forming a distinctly separate entity from the 48 states south of the 49th parallel. Similarly, he must be credited for the mega project of realizing the Canadian Pacific Railway, as well as the institution of the Northwest Mounted Police. But, (and again, in a balanced view) at what cost? I am of the belief that a ledger that simply states accomplishments provides the reader with an unbalanced view.

Continued on page 7

PHOTO JONATHAN KITCHEN/GETTY IMAGES

LETTERS

History shows prime minister’s true colours

Continued from page 6

In order to achieve balance, each accomplishment must be accompanied by its related costs. And here is where the Macdonald legacy becomes muddy. Very muddy.

What the writer refers to as “new found values” that “demean an earlier time,” I see as the perspective of 130+ years (since Macdonald’s death) that bestows clarity on his actions. It is precisely this long view and clarity that have enabled numerous historians of the latter half of the 20th century and the early 21st century to review and rethink the Macdonald legacy. In fact, so very much has been written (and corroborated) in the past 70 years, that it boggles my mind that there are some among us who still portray him as the ‘saviour of Canada.’ But surely this notion of Canada is one that could only be held by the conquering nations – for must I remind you that there were already, at the time of first contact, numerous thriving nations on this land?

The writer’s statement that “During Macdonald’s years most Indian schools were day schools without compulsory attendance” is patently wrong. While ‘Mission Schools’ for Indigenous children were operated by various Christian religious orders since 1620, and The Mohawk Institute in Upper Canada became the first ‘residential school’ in 1831 [The Canadian Encyclopedia], the form of oppressive and repressive residential schools, with enforced attendance of all Indigenous children, only came into existence during Macdonald’s tenure as Prime Minister (for all but five years during the span of 1867— 1891) and Superintendent General of Indian Affairs (1878—1887).

It was Macdonald, in 1883, who authorized the creation of residential schools. While initially, many Indigenous leaders trusted that such an education would enable their children to prosper in the settler society, the Prime Minister clearly had other ideas, as evidenced by his speech to the House of Commons in May, 1883: “When the school is on the reserve, the child lives with its parents, who are savages … he is

simply a savage who can read and write.”

Instead, he believed, “…that Indian children should be withdrawn as much as possible from the parental influence … put … in central training industrial schools where they will acquire the habits and models of thought of white men.”

[The Canadian Encyclopedia]

The above are the man’s words as recorded in parliamentary annals of the time. How is it possible to dispute them? With regard to the matter of starving Indigenous people on the prairies: while it was the expectation of the Canadian governments (both Macdonald’s and Alexander Mackenzie’s) of the 1870s, that the recent treaties would encourage the Indigenous Peoples of the west to abandon their hunting and trapping traditions and take up farming like the European settlers, that did not take place. Strict measures by impatient government agents enforced hard labour on the land in return for necessary supplies and implements. The simultaneous collapse of the bison herds only made the Indigenous population more dependent on the government for food.

In the face of opposition complaints of government overspending on what was then considered “a dying race,” Macdonald’s response was that the agents “are doing all they can, by refusing food until the Indians are on the verge of starvation, to reduce the expense.” [Dictionary of Canadian Biography]

I ask: are these the actions of a hero? In the Columbia Valley Pioneer column, this is what the writer refers to as “Against strong parliamentary opposition, our first Prime Minister provided food aid to the First Nations people.” While Attorney General of Canada West in 1854, Macdonald tabled the Act for the Gradual Civilization of the Indian Tribes in the Canadian Assembly (the union of the Upper and Lower Canadas at the time). As its name implies, the Act was intended to entice Indigenous residents to become “enfranchised” or full citizens; upon which they would receive full status as British subjects, voting rights and 50 acres of reserve land. The catch? They had to be male; judged by a special board of examiners to be

Conservation funding approved

Local conservation has won another point in the game of survival.

Last week the regional district approved several recommendations under the Columbia Valley Local Conservation Fund program:

• Conservation of biodiversity in Columbia Valley - $20,000

• Enhancing bat habitat and moni-

Some people think that Sir John A. Macdonald was a hero in Canada, while others beg to differ.

educated, debt-free, and of good moral character; remain that way for a threeyear trial period; and give up their “Indian status” and cultural identity. The reserve land they would receive would immediately cease to be reserve land. [Ontario Historical Society] The Act for the Gradual Civilization of the Indian Tribes morphed into the Gradual Enfranchisement Act in 1869, and eventually became the infamous Indian Act of 1876 (albeit under the Alexander Mackenzie government).

Returning as Prime Minister in 1878, Macdonald had no difficulty administering the Act. With regards to the moral character of our first Prime Minister, I would like to add one further reference … one that was not alluded to in the column. It will serve to underscore the racist leanings of the Prime Minister. While in his zeal to get the CPR completed, in the late 1870s and early 1880s, Macdonald countered the anti-Chinese sentiment in BC as well as his cabinet, “… either you must have this labour or you cannot have the railway.” On the subject of Chinese immigration, he held a different point of view. He argued that Chinese immigrants would produce “a mongrel race” that would destroy “the

Aryan character” of British America. [Dictionary of Canadian Biography] I could go on, but I think I have made my point regarding issues that were omitted in the writer’s column. I might add that the only referenced quote in the piece was attributed to an associate of the Aristotle Foundation – a right-wing think tank. In terms of the tone of the piece, I would like to say that the use of statements such as “imagined disgrace,” “false purity,” and “single objection,” as well as justifying Macdonald’s behaviour on the grounds that he acted as a man of his era, is not only an egregious argument in the face of the devastating damage he caused to multiple generations of the First Peoples of what is now Canada, it is also a grievous insult to a people who have graciously permitted all of the rest of us to live on their land. In closing I would like to point out that I find it ironic that the writer, while steadfastly defending his “historical hero” John A. Macdonald, has consistently misspelled his name throughout the column.

Kumari Campbell, Radium Hot Springs

toring populations - $24,955

• Environmental restoration of Brewer Creek Trail - $8,184

• Hydrological modelling of Wilmer/Boulder Creek watersheds - $20,000

• Lake Windermere monitoring and education - $16,000

• Reimagining the ‘Ties that Bind’ wildlife conservation to farming - $6,000

Fly fishing festival coming to Canal Flats

By Steve Hubrecht  steve@columbiavalleypioneer.com

Temperatures have been well below zero in the Columbia Valley; not exactly the best time to cast a fly rod. But if you’re an avid angler, you can indulge your passion this weekend at Canal Flats’ screening of the International Fly Fishing Festival.

It’s the premier movie festival in the world for fly fishing, and this year is the second time it’s coming to Canal Flats. Last year organizer Marty Smith hoped that about 70 to 100 people would turn up. He was surprised and delighted when more than 140 people came.

“It was a huge success,” Smith told the Pioneer, outlining that “there is a pretty big fly fishing community” in the Columbia Valley, and nearby places such as Wasa and Skookumchuk.”

Smith works as a fly fishing guide as well as manager of the Village Social cafe, which is right next to the Ponderosa Arts and Events Centre, where the festival will be shown. Even if well-attended the festival won’t make much profit, but that’s fine by Smith, whose aim is to promote the sport.

“The films do a really good job of opening people’s eyes to the diversity it (fly fishing) can be. You say ‘fly fishing’ and people immediately think of some older or middle age white man in hip waders somewhere in North America,” he said. “But there’s so much more to it than that. One film, for instance, is set on Christmas Island (in the Indian Ocean). A lot of people don’t seem to realize you can fly fish for salt water species as well as fresh water species.”

The festival runs for about two hours and includes seven films. This year’s

films include ‘Native Range’, ‘Fishing Diaries’, ‘Silent Spotter’, ‘Time Will Tell’, ’Above the Clouds’, ‘New Beginnings’, and ‘Legacy’.

Smith grew up in Tasmania, where fly fishing is popular. “Everyone thinks it’s quite complicated. And I suppose it is, to a degree. But that entails a need to focus,” he said. That focus means that when Smith is fly fishing the thousands of other thoughts and concerns normal ly flashing through his mind fade away. “Time just slips away,” he said. “I find peace in it.”

Lately Smith has noticed an uptick in the popularity of fly fishing.

“There’s a lot of young people inter ested and there’s a lot of people starting to realize that fly fishing is not just a pur suit for the wealthy and the elderly. It’s actually relatively accessible. You can just pack a rod on your pack the next time you go to the lake,” he said.

The Columbia Valley is rife with excellent fly fishing spots, according to Smith. Whiteswan Lake and Whitetail Lake are two of his favourites. But the very best? Some of the valley’s hidden, high alpine lakes (exactly which ones are a secret).

“The farther I can get away the bet ter,” said Smith. “It’s amazing — some of the best fishing and some of the best scenery anywhere in the world.”

The International Fly Fishing Fes tival takes place at the Ponderosa Arts and Events Centre on Friday, Feb. 7 at 6 p.m. Tickets are available at Flyfest. com or at the Village Social cafe in Ca nal Flats.

If interest is there, in the future Smith hopes to start a kayaking and whitewater rafting film festival or a  trout-specific film festival.

DISTRICT OF INVERMERE

NOTICE OF SHORT-TERM RENTAL TEMPORARY USE PERMIT APPLICATIONS UNDER DISTRICT OF INVERMERE CONSIDERATION

Pursuant to Section 494 of the Local Government Act, public notice is hereby given that the District of Invermere is considering the Short-Term Rental Temporary Use Permits (STU-TUP) listed in the table below. Issuance of the permits will be considered by council or a delegated authority at the Invermere District office at 914 - 8th Avenue in Invermere, BC, at the corresponding date and time as listed below:

All persons who believe they are affected by any of the Short-Term Rental Temporary Use Permits are encouraged to submit their concerns in writing to the Invermere office at 914 - 8th Avenue, Invermere, BC, or by email to dpcoordinator@invermere.net prior to February 3, 2025 at 2:00pm. All submissions should include your name, address, and contact information. All written submissions are public information pursuant to the Freedom of Information and Protection of Privacy Act. All submissions will form part of the public record. Questions about the disclosure of your personal information may be referred to the Corporate Officer at 250-342-9281.

For more information regarding the above applications contact the Invermere Planning Department at 250-342-9281 or by email at dpcoordinator@invermere.net or at the Invermere Office between the hours of 8:30 AM and 4:30 PM, Monday to Friday, excluding statutory holidays.

PO Box 339, 914 - 8th Ave, Invermere BC V0A 1K0 250-342-9281

info@invermere.net

www.invermere.net

A fly fishing film festival will be showing at Ponderosa Arts and Events Centre on Friday, Feb. 7. PHOTO RUBBER BALL PRODUCTION/GETTY IMAGES

RDEK reviews grant, resolutions, budget

Columbia

Valley Pioneer staff

The following are news briefs from the Regional District of East Kootenay (RDEK).

Grant for ESS

The RDEK has submitted a $200,000 grant application to the Union of BC Municipalities to fund the East Kootenay ESS Modernization Project.

If approved, the money will be used to enhance training opportunities for emergency support services volunteers, purchase emergency supplies, and create storage space for supplies.

Resolutions submitted

The board will submit three resolutions for con-

sideration at the 2025 Association of Kootenay and Boundary Local Governments annual general meeting.

The resolutions are: collection of fines by transfer to property taxes; capital costs for RCMP; and standardized wake surfing regulation.

The board is calling on the Federation of Canadian Municipalities to urge Transport Canada to develop science-based criteria where wake surfing would threaten lake or ecosystem health, followed by regulations.

Budget day

The RDEK board will be reviewing the draft 20252029 Five-Year Financial Plan during a special day of meetings on Wednesday, Feb. 12.

The meetings will be open to the public and will be live-streamed via Zoom for those who cannot attend in person.

The time and the agenda will be posted on the RDEK website on the evening of February 7. The Zoom link will be posted on the evening of February 11.

Volunteer of the year

The RDEK has been accepting nominations for the 2025 Electoral Area Volunteer of the Year awards.

Residents were asked if they knew of an amazing volunteer who lives in an RDEK electoral area and makes a big difference through their kindness and volunteering. The deadline for nominations was Tuesday, Feb. 4. Stay tuned for the winning nominees.

Visit engage.rdek.bc.ca/volunteer for more info.

CCR to be remembered at local concert

By Steve Hubrecht  steve@columbiavalleypioneer.com

The story of Creedence Clearwater Revival (CCR)’s rapid rise to the top of the music world, and the band’s equally rapid disintegration is one of the greatest tales in the music business: hard-driving classic rock tunes with a swampy Southern-twang, millions of records sold, hit singles galore, underlying tensions, brother-versus-brother fallout, lawsuits, then breakup.

Set all that against the tumult of the late 1960s and early 1970s, with topical events of the times often captured in the band’s lyrics, and you can begin to imagine why the band is considered rock royalty by many music critics.

But you don’t have to imagine — you can see for yourself: the many twists and turns of the CCR story will come to life in the Columbia Valley Centre next weekend on Friday, Feb. 14 during Creedence Clearwater Remembered: A True Rock and Roll Story.

The show is a mix of music and storytelling, featuring Edmonton musician El Niven.

“We take you through all the hits of CCR but also tell you the story of the band,” show co-producer Graham Neil told the Pioneer. “They burned brightly and then flared out in not that long of a time.”

CCR’s sudden fame was dramat

“band against band. Band against the record company. Brother against brother. It was certainly something,” said Neil. He added that the tale of CCR is, in many ways, a “snapshot of a generation.”

Neil clarified that Creedence Clearwater Remembered is not a tribute band. “We don’t pretend to be anyone. It’s not acting . . . it’s a story and the songs are part of the story.”

Niven described the show to the Pioneer as “a salute to CCR rather than a tribute. We are ourselves on stage, but we celebrate Jon Fogerty.”

The set behind the band changes throughout the show, proceeding chronologically through time. The net result is that “it does feel like we take you on a journey,” said Niven.

Playing CCR songs is “a great fit for me,” said Niven. He grew up listening to grunge rock bands such as Pearl Jam instead of classic rock, but his parents often played CCR’s greatest hits album in the family station wagon. “So when I started playing CCR songs (for the show), although I had to learn them on the guitar, I was already very familiar with all the tunes. I knew them. The feel and sound of them, that was already in me.”

Creedence Clearwater Remembered launched three years ago, has since toured all over western Canada and recently made its first tour to eastern Canada.

Neil.

Part of the show’s success comes down to the trademark CCR sound, according to Niven. “It’s simple, it’s gritty and it’s raw,” he said. “We’ve been playing in front of crowds that are pretty decent in size, and everyone already knows all the words to all the songs. So they immediately get into it and start singing along. It’s really magic. They (the crowds) soak it up, and then I feed off that.”

Creedence Clearwater Remembered closes with the iconic song ‘Proud Mary’ and there are almost always peo-

ple up dancing in the aisles, said Niven. “It’s one of the high points.”

The show is the second in the Legends Series put on throughout the winter and spring by local company Mountain Home Productions, which also brought Tom Cochrane and Colin James to Invermere last summer.

VIP doors for Creedence Clearwater Remembered open at 5:15 p.m., VIP dinner is at 5:45 p.m., general admission doors open at 6:45 p.m., and the show starts at 7:30 p.m.

To find out more visit: www.mountainhomeproductions.com.

Creedence Clearwater Revival will be ‘remembered ‘ at Columbia Valley Centre on February 14. PHOTO SUBMITTED

OUT OF OFFICE…

Supporting local business in more ways than one!

The world is an uncertain place – the constantly changing tariff and trade war with the US is just the latest news (which has probably shifted again by the time that this article has been published). The fact of the matter is, that there are many things that can and will affect you and your business and employees and finances, and a lot of the time, they are simply out of our control. But it turns out that there are also things that we can do as consumers, as Canadians and as residents of the Columbia Valley. Shopping local is a big part of this, but an oft-overlooked aspect of supporting local business has to do with businesses supporting each other. I don’t mean just financially, either – knowing there are other businesses in the same boat and what they have tried and was a success (or not) can be a help and a relief.

The monthly Chamber Connections Networking Nights are a great way to touch base and stay in tune with fellow businesses – these events are free, hosted at a different venue every month and are drop-in and commitment free! There will be at least one staff and Chamber of Commerce Board members at each event, meaning they are a great way to stay in contact with the Chamber and stay in the loop about their advocacy work and local events as well. The next Chamber Connections is February 11th at Don Agave Cantina in the Prestige Inn in Radium. You can join us to talk business from 5:30-7:30pm – if you are interested in hosting, there are still dates available for venues in 2025 (although they are filling up fast, so contact Deanna at communications@ cvchamber.ca if you are interested in hosting)!

Another way to support our community is by just showing up! There are a plethora of cool/fun/interesting events constantly being planned and hosted by a ton of local businesses and organizations. You might even be checking out some of them on the opposite page of this feature – they will only keep happening if they are attended. You can see a ton of what’s coming up at cvevents.ca, both regular and one-off events are posted on this community events calendar. If you are planning something, you are encouraged to post it on the Columbia Valley Chamber of Commerce community events calendar (you can set up an account for free, post any events you’d like to advertise, and they are now edit-able) all for free! This online calendar is great for locals and out of towners alike to see what’s going on, and the events page in the Pioneer (yeah, the one right over there!) is taken directly from this calendar.

-Deanna

Berrington

Thursday, February 6

• 10:00am-11:00am: Cover Letter Writing - Employment Workshop Work BC Offices. Put "Your Best Foot Forward" and join us for our weekly employment workshops. For the month of January and February, there are regular and on-demand workshops happening every day. Call 250341-6889 or visit the local Invermere office to sign-up.

• 10:15am-1:00pm: Tech Tutoring. Invermere Public Library. Free help with your computer, phone or tablet, assistance with websites or online forms, or even to learn to play games on your phone or ipad! Please preregister by contacting Invermere Public Library 250-342-6416

• 10:30am-11:30am: Senior’s Fitness Columbia Valley Centre, $2 dropin.

• 11:30am-12:00pm: Little Lambs. Radium Library. Join us for songs, rhymes, and stories with your babies! Every Thursday, no registration required.

• 2:00pm-3:00pm. Needles & Hooks. Invermere Public Library. Join us on the 1st & 3rd Thursdays of each month for Needles & Hooks. Bring your current yarn project and meet with other makers! All welcome.

• 2:00pm-4:00pm: Tech Tutoring. Radium Public Library. Free help with your computer, phone or tablet, assistance with websites or online forms, or even to learn to play games on your phone or ipad! Please book an appointment by calling Radium Public Library at 250-347-2434.

3:30pm-8:00pm: Summit Youth Night at the Edge. Edgewater Community Hall Basement. For all youth Grade 6 to 12. Every Thursday join us for snacks, games, food, pooltable, crafts at The Edge.

6:00pm-8:00pm: Come Cook with Me! College of the Rockies, Invermere Campus (by CBAL). Led by a chef, you will learn recipes and tips for preparing budget friendly, tasty, healthy meals. All supplies provided. Take your culinary creations home! Spaces are limited and registration is required. To learn more and to register contact: Misty Hawes 250-409-4251

6:45pm: Texas Hold ‘Em Poker Invermere Legion. $30 buy-in.

7:30pm: Families Housing that Fits. Zoom meeting with host Ben Postmus. Inclusive and supportive housing in your community. diversefamilyroots@gmail.com

7:30pm: Trivia Night Windermere Whitehouse Pub. Host Mandi Cox $3/ person, teams of more than 6 will be split into two groups. Ages 19+

Friday, February 7

• 10:00am-11:00am: Interview Skills - Employment Workshop. Work BC Offices. Put "Your Best Foot Forward" and join us for our weekly employment workshops. For the month of January and February, there are regular and on-demand workshops happening every day. Call 250341-6889 or visit the local Invermere office to sign-up.

• 10:30am-11:00pm: Family Storytime. Invermere Public Library. Join us at the library for stories, songs and a craft! Geared towards preschool age, but all welcome to attend!

• 6:30pm - close: Meat Draw and 50/50 in the Legion! Members and guests welcome!

• Saturday, February 8

• 10:30am-11:00pm: Family Storytime. Invermere Public Library. Join us at the library for stories, songs and a craft! Geared towards preschool age, but all welcome to attend!

• 11:00am-12:30pm: LEGO/Duplo Club Invermere Public Library. We'll have Lego, Duplo, big blocks & more out to play with on Saturday mornings! All ages welcome.

• 3:00pm-4:30pm: Buddy Reading. Invermere Public Library. Practice reading aloud one-on-one with a staff member to build skill, confidence and a love of reading! 30 minute sessions at 3:00, 3:30 or 4:00 pm. By Appointment Only!! Contact Invermere Library to sign up.

6:30pm: Meat Draw and 50/50 in the Legion! Members and guests welcome!

Sunday, February 9

2:00pm: Cards, Cribbage and Darts Come to the Legion and have some fun! Members and guests welcome.

7:00pm: Live Music Horsethief Creek Pub & Eatery. Accompanied minors are permitted. No cover.

7:30pm: Dads Matter. Zoom meeting with host Ben Postmus. Dads connecting, Dads Supporting, Dads Inspiring. Do you have a son or daughter with Diverse Abilities? So do I. diversefamilyroots@gmail.com

Monday, February 10

10:00am-11:00am: Senior's Yoga Columbia Valley Centre, Invermere. $2 drop in, open to all seniors.

12:00pm-2:00pm: Cooking with Chef. Invermere Seniors Hall (by CBAL). Led by a chef, learn recipes and tips for preparing budget friendly, tasty, healthy meals! All supplies provided. Take your culinary creations home! Registration is required and space is limited so sign up early! To learn more or to reserve your spot contact Misty Hawes at 250-409-4251 or wvcoordinator@cbal.org

• 3:00pm-4:30pm: Buddy Reading. Invermere Public Library. Practice reading aloud one-on-one with a staff member to build skill, confidence and a love of reading! 30 minute sessions at 3:00, 3:30 or 4:00 pm. By Appointment Only!! Contact Invermere Library to sign up.

• 6:30pm: Poker (Chip up for Charity). The Station Pub $50 buy-in. Every Monday.

Tuesday, February 11

• 5:30pm-7:30pm: Chamber Connections at Don Agave Cantina in the Prestige! Monthly Networking Event by the Columbia Valley Chamber of Commerce. Free to attend, drop-in casual event with at least two board members in attendance. Join us at Don Agave Cantina in the Prestige Radium Hot Springs Resort. Let’s talk business - see you there!

• 10:00am-11:00am: Online Job Searching - Employment Workshop. Work BC Offices. Put "Your Best Foot Forward" and join us for our weekly employment workshops. For the month of January and February, there are regular and on-demand workshops happening every day. Call 250-341-6889 or visit the local Invermere office to sign-up.

• 10:30am-11:30am: Senior’s Fitness. Columbia Valley Centre, $2 drop-in.

• 1:00pm-3:30pm: Art in the Afternoon. Radium Library. A weekly gathering for artists! A free program for local artists and art enthusiasts; whether you sketch, paint, carve, knit or crochet, bring your supplies and work alongside fellow artists. 1:00pm-3:00pm: Little Hands, Wise Hearts – Aboriginal Head Start on Reserve. Columbia Lake Recreation centre. New intergenerational Playgroup! Free for all ᕈakisq'nuknik members and by donation for non-members. This unique program brings children (0-6 years) and elders together for fun activities, storytelling, and connection, fostering learning and relationships across generations. Come be a part of this experience that embraces community and togetherness! * A parent or guardian must remain to attend to their children. e-mail: ashely.killin@akisqnuk.org for more information

7:30pm: Families on Tuesday. Zoom meeting with host Ben Postmus. Families connecting, Families Sharing, Families Supporting Families: Support, Listening, Sharing, Connecting. diversefamilyroots@gmail.com

Wednesday, February 12

• 10:00am-11:00am: Senior's Yoga Columbia Valley Centre, $2 dropin.

10:00am-11:00am: Resume Development - Employment Workshop. Work BC Offices. Put "Your Best Foot Forward" and join us for our weekly employment workshops. For the month of January and February, there are regular and on-demand workshops happening every day. Call 250-341-6889 or visit the local Invermere office to sign-up.

• 11:30am-12:00pm: Story Time. Radium Library - preschool & all ages.

• 3:30pm-4:45pm: After School Club. Invermere Public Library. A window of transition time between school and home or extracurriculars. Come colour, bead, play with LEGO, and catch up with friends! Open to all school-aged kids. Drop-off for Grade 2 and up. Please bring your own snacks! One time registration required. Find the form on the After School Club page on our website or fill it out at the library.

• 6:00pm-9:00pm: Wednesday Dinners & Meat Draw & 50/50 Invermere Legion. All welcome.

‘Forever Fishing’ draws big crowd of fun

By Steve Hubrecht  steve@columbiavalleypioneer.com

The annual Forever Fishing event was a smash hit last weekend. And speaking of hits, the fish were biting too.

The event, organized by the Lake Windermere Rod and Gun Club, is meant to encourage people who face mobility challenges to get out ice fishing.

It was held on Saturday, Feb 1 at the north end of Lake Windermere, close to the Bayshore condos. This year was the second edition of Forever Fishing, and organizers were pleased with excellent community response.

“It is for people with disabilities, but also for people who are maybe older and can’t drill with an ice auger. The whole idea is to make sure everyone has a chance to get out on the lake and go ice fishing,” said Lake Windermere Rod and Gun Club president Peter Von Niessen.

The British Columbia Wildlife Federation (BCWF) started a similar program in the summer.

“But there is a lot of red tape that goes along with those (summer programs),” said Von Niessen.

Many special permits are needed to put accessibility structures into lakes, and getting those permits can take quite some time. It’s also not always easy to find a lake that is at least somewhat easy to get to, offers good fishing, and for which accessibility structure permits can be obtained.

“Then I realized that in winter you don’t need as much (accessibility infrastructure) because you’ve got the ice — it’s essentially a frozen accessibility dock,” explained Von Niessen.

During the first Forever Fishing last year, four or five people registered. But then nearly 30 showed up at the event.

This year 29 people registered ahead of time and nearly 70 showed up.

“Everyone seemed to love it. It was fantastic. The smiles were second to none,” said Von Niessen. “The temperature warmed up a bit that day, so it was a little bit icy, but aside from that it ran as smooth as silk.”

PUBLIC NOTICE: FOREST OPERATIONS MAP REVIEW PUBLIC NOTICE: FOREST OPERATIONS MAP REVIEW

In accordance with the Forest and Range Prac�ces Act, Canadian Forest Products Ltd. (Canfor) invites the public to review its Forest Opera�ons Map (FOM ID: 2132) in the Rocky Mountain and Selkirk Natural Resource Districts The FOM describes areas proposed for Cutting Permit and Road Permit development within the next three years star�ng on February 4th, 2025, and ending on February 4th, 2028 We welcome your comments and feedback during the review period star�ng February 4th, 2025 Please submit your comments by March 6th, 2024.

In accordance with the Forest and Range Practices Act, Canadian Forest Products Ltd. (Canfor) invites the public to review its Forest Operations Map (FOM ID: 2132) in the Rocky Mountain and Selkirk Natural Resource Districts. The FOM describes areas proposed for Cutting Permit and Road Permit development within the next three years starting on February 4th, 2025, and ending on February 4th, 2028. We welcome your comments and feedback during the review period starting February 4th, 2025. Please submit your comments by March 6th, 2025.

The map is accessible for review and comment submission online at: https://fom.nrs.gov.bc.ca/public/projects

The map is accessible for review and comment submission online at: https://fom.nrs.gov.bc.ca/public/projects

Alterna�vely, in-person review and comments can be completed by appointment only at the following loca�on during office hours (Monday to Friday 8:00am- 4:00pm): 1000 Industrial Road 1, Cranbrook, BC, V1C4J7

Alternatively, in-person review and comments can be completed by appointment only at the following location during office hours (Monday to Friday 8:00am - 4:00pm):

Comments may also be submitted by mail to the above address or by phone at 604-773-3490 or to ashleigh.harvison@canfor.com

1000 Industrial Road 1, Cranbrook, BC, V1C4J7

Comments may also be submitted by mail to the above address or by phone at 604-773-3490 or to ashleigh.harvison@canfor.com

DON’T LOSE YOUR LOCAL NEWS

Sign

Nearly 70 people attended this year’s Forever Fishing event hosted by the Lake Windermere Rod and Gun Club. PHOTOS SUBMITTED

KCP elevates wetland conservation

Submitted by Megan Jamison Kootenay Conservation Program

Kootenay Conservation Program (KCP), a partnership of over 85 organizations, leveraged significant funding in 2024 towards land stewardship in the Columbia Valley that supports community well-being.

With funding from Environment and Climate Change Canada for the Kootenay Connect Priority Places initiative, KCP has brought in millions of dollars to support monitoring and restoration work throughout the Kootenays.

“We are extremely proud of KCP, and the ability of our partnership to work collaboratively towards shared conservation goals that benefit local ecosystems and communities” says Juliet Craig, KCP program director. “Collectively, KCP partner organizations have a large conservation impact on wildlife and the habitats they depend upon in our region.”

“The collaborative partnerships have enabled local organizations to pool their expertise to protect the region’s biodiversity.”

Marcy Mahr

In 2024, field inventorying and monitoring of species at risk continued to build local knowledge and inform land management with the support of Kootenay Connect Priority Places. Last summer, 810 new active badger burrows were documented, contributing to a total of over 2,400 burrows that have been located and mapped in the Columbia Valley over the past four years. This conservation work enables a baseline for understanding local wildlife by monitoring impacts to their populations over time and guiding conservation measures such as designation of Wildlife Habitat Areas to protect badger habitat.

Last year KCP partners also continued to research and explore ways to enhance the invaluable Columbia Wetlands. With support from Kootenay Connect Priority Places, the Columbia Wetlands Stewardship Partners (CWSP) assessed 371 wetland sites on the Westside Benchlands for vulnerability to drought and suitability for restoration using human-built dams called “beaver dam analogues” to retain water. Four beaver dam analogous were installed, demonstrating a simple and cost-effective way to provide ecosystem benefits that mimic natural beaver dams. Positive results include raising the water table, improving floodplain connectivity, creating small open water ponds to help slow water in the stream, moderating stream temperatures, replenishing shallow groundwater stores, and nourishing streams with sediment.

West of Columbia Lake, CWSP completed detailed surveys of beaver dams

in Upper Marion Creek in 2024, and located 24 active beaver dams and five active beaver lodges. These active dams hold more than 33,000 cubic metres of water on the landscape, create marsh, swamp, and fen wetland habitats, and help regulate the flow and temperature of Marion Creek, all of which support biodiversity, including species such as the provincially blue-listed Westslope cutthroat trout.

Given the lack of permanently inundated wetlands in the broader benchlands of Columbia Lake, these wetlands and the beaver dams that maintain them are particularly important in providing wetland habitat and water to the adjacent conservation properties managed by the Nature Conservancy of Canada (NCC) and The Nature Trust of BC.

“The collaborative partnerships supported through Kootenay Connect Priority Places have enabled local people and organizations to pool their expertise and collectively address priorities that will significantly improve our chances for protecting our region’s biodiversity and ecological resilience in the face of a changing climate,” explains Marcy Mahr, Kootenay Connect manager.

KCP has also leveraged conservation funding by working with the Regional District of East Kootenay (RDEK) to establish the Columbia Valley Local Conservation Fund (CVLCF), a dedicated fund to support high priority local conservation projects in rural areas and municipalities between Spillimacheen and Canal Flats. Since 2008, the CVLCF has supported 129 stewardship and land securement projects, contributing nearly $3.1 million, which has leveraged nine times that amount in external grants and in-kind contributions. The fund has supported projects such as ecosystem restoration, species at risk recovery, invasive species management, water quality monitoring, and supporting farmers to take extraordinary stewardship measures.

In 2024, the CVLCF also supported the purchase of the Geddes Creek Conservation Area by NCC. Adjacent to Kootenay National Park, this area is an important contribution to the Radium wildlife corridor, as recognized by KCP’s Kootenay Connect Priority Places initiative as an area critical for at-risk species and wildlife movement. This important land purchase was made possible through funding from the partnership between NCC and Parks Canada, the Fish and Wildlife Compensation Program and the CVLCF.

All this work would not be possible without the support of our local and regional funders, including Columbia Basin Trust and the Fish and Wildlife Compensation Program. The KCP team and board would like to acknowledge the important contribution of these funders, as well as KCP partners as we look ahead to 2025 projects that continue to benefit ecosystem health.

Visit kootenayconservation.ca.

Invermere on the Lake

CALL FOR VOLUNTEER INVERMERE PUBLIC LIBRARY BOARD MEMBERS

Are you an avid reader?

Would you like to see a new library?

Would you like to be a part of your library’s future?

In accordance with the Library Act, the District of Invermere is inviting applications for membership on the Invermere Public Library Board. Membership on the Board will be for a two year term, commencing February, 11 2025. To be eligible, you must be a resident or elector of the District of Invermere. Members of the Invermere District Council, employees of the District of Invermere and employees of the existing Library Board are not eligible.

Members of the Invermere Public Library Board are guardians of a “public trust”. They have a legal and moral obligation to ensure that the public library provides relevant and efficient service to the community that it supports.

Successful candidates must possess a strong sense of community service, willingness to work respectfully as part of a team and have good communication skills.

Normal Board activities include:

Assuring that adequate funding is available;

Assessing the needs of the community and advocating for the library;

The development and revision of library policy;

The development and implementation of a vision and strategic plan;

Assisting the Library Director in implementation of the strategic plan in accordance with Policy.

New board members must be willing to attend training and information sessions designed to assist them in the work they undertake on behalf of the Invermere Public Library Board.

Interested persons are invited to submit written applications on or before February 6th, 2025 at 4:00 p.m. to: Kindry Dalke

Director of Corporate Services 914 – 8th Avenue Box 339 Invermere, BC V0A 1K0 or to corporateservices@invermere.net

A field technician assesses a natural beaver dam in the Columbia Wetlands as part of CWSP’s Columbia Valley Local Conservation Fund project. PHOTO CATRIONA LEVEN/CWSP

SPORTS

SPECIAL BUDGET MEETING

Wednesday February 12

The 2025 RDEK budget meeting will be held at the RDEK’s Cranbrook Office February 12, 2025. This meeting is open to anyone wishing to attend in person or via Zoom.

The meeting start times and agendas will be posted on February 7 on www.rdek.bc.ca/meetings_events

Apply by 4pm February 10, 2025. Late applications will not be accepted. engage.rdek.bc.ca

Loppet mania - The recent Toby Creek Nipika Panorama Loppet saw much enthusiasm and participation. PHOTOS HUNTER SCRIMSHAW AND JAYDEN DANIELS

Skiers love a good loppet

Columbia Valley Pioneer staff

The recent Toby Creek Nipika Panorama Loppet was a resounding success once again.

Toby Creek Nordic Ski Club skiers both young and old did well with 14 podium finishes at Nipika on Saturday, Jan. 25 and 18 at Panorama Mountain Resort on Sunday, Jan. 26.

Club athlete Jasper Kokolski earned the “Spirit of the Slopes” distinction at Panorama for sportsmanship.

Youth and the young at heart had a lot of fun during the Toby Creek Nipika Panorama Loppet on January 25-26. PHOTOS HUNTER SCRIMSHAW AND JAYDEN DANIELS

BEYOND THE BLUE LINE

Lackluster play hurts team

By Stephanie Stevens

Every now and then you just have to call a spade a spade.

Columbia Valley Rockies head coach Tayler Sincennes was less than happy with his team after their lackluster performance last weekend.

The Kootenay International Junior Hockey League (KIJHL) squad was home at Eddie Mountain Memorial Arena on Saturday, Feb. 1 hosting the Creston Valley Thunder Cats — the only game of the weekend after road conditions saw the Jan. 31 away game in Beaver Valley postponed.

“I thought we were soft and took the easy way out,” said Sincennes of the 5-3 loss. “For the most part nobody put in the hard qualities that our team thrives on and it showed. There were too many guys playing at the end of their stick hoping for chances or hoping to get the puck instead of going and earning it. All in all it was a very disappointing showing at home on a Saturday night.”

While the local Junior A team can and has come

from behind in previous games, the lack of goalie support and disconnected play took its toll.

The first period saw Carter Hensch (assist from Teo Fath) tie up the game one all, but the Cats added four more unanswered goals to their tally in the second. Two third-period offerings from Johnny Lozeman (unassisted) and Noah Asmundson (Jack Thorne and Hensch) hinted at a comeback but it was too little, too late.

Between the pipes Hunter Arntsen stopped 27 of 32 shots on goal.

The next games are away, first in Kimberley this Friday, Feb. 7 and then in Beaver Valley to make up the postponed game with the Nite Hawks, currently second from the top in the Neil Murdoch division. The Rockies went to the third place spot in the Eddie Mountain Division after the Fernie Ghostriders edged past them with back-to-back wins last weekend.

The Rockies will be back in the Eddie Friday, Feb. 14. The Valentine’s Day game will feature a buy one, get one ticket half off special so fans can take their sweethearts on a hockey date. Puck drop is at 7 p.m.

NOTICE OF PROPOSED ZONING BYLAW AMENDMENTS

Notice is hereby given under section 94 of the Community Charter, that the Council of the Village of Radium Hot Springs is considering amendments to its Zoning Bylaw No. 480, 2022.

BYLAW NO. 514, 2025 ZONING AMENDMENT will amend the definitions of hotel, motel, short term rental and tourist accommodation for consistency with provincial regulations. The proposed bylaw will also amend the C-1 Highway Commercial Zone Accessory Uses and Other Regulations.

A PUBLIC HEARING on the proposed Zoning Amendment Bylaw No. 514, 2025 will be held:

FEBRUARY 10th, 2025 AT 2:00 P.M.

RADIUM HOT SPRINGS CENTRE

4863 STANLEY STREET

RADIUM HOT SPRINGS, B.C. AND VIA ZOOM

JOIN ZOOM MEETING: https://zoom.us/ MEETING ID: 882 123 4110

PASSCODE: RADIUM

All persons who believe that their interest in property is affected by the proposed bylaw may submit written presentations to the Village of Radium Hot Springs, PO Box 340, Radium Hot Springs, BC, V0A 1M0 or Fax: 250-347-9068 or email: cao@radiumhotsprings.ca prior to the date and time of the hearing. Persons may also present written and/ or verbal submissions at the public hearing. Submissions will not be received after the public hearing has been adjourned.

The full bylaw may be inspected on the Village Website: www. radiumhotsprings.ca

Above, against the boards, Ashton Sledz battles for the puck while assistant captain Teo Fath looks on. In left photo, Trae Lees and Carter Velker anticipate the play.

PHOTOS STEPHANIE STEVENS

PIONEER CLASSIFIEDS

BUYING OR SELLING?

Serving Invermere & Area cell 250-341-1202 gerry@gerrytaft.ca

Narcotics Anonymous. Mondays 7-8 pm, ONLY VIA ZOOM. Meeting ID: 772 6822 4234 Passcode: 4ZgPXP

I would like to give a huge cheers to Nelda, Greg, Ellie, Mary, Ann, Michelle, Wayne and Jake for all they have done to make my life easier. I would also like to give a huge cheers to Nelda, Pat, Sue, Mary, Ann, Peter and Brenda for the meals and goodies. I have been spoiled.

Cheers, cheers and more cheers to my Friday night group at the legion. I look forward to it all week. It is always such fun and lots of laughs.

Big cheers to the amazing Dr. Sarah Ort and her staff at Columbia Valley Veterinary. Your kindness, compassion and expertise were greatly appreciated by Juno (and her people).

CHEERS to the memory of Al Wittke, Dallas Stober and Jack Ward. Never to be forgotten!

Cheers to Kevin of KB Creations for the excellent work you did in my suite!

Alcoholics Anonymous. If alcohol is causing problems or conflict in your life, AA can help. All meetings are at 7 pm. Columbia United AA, Invermere: Saturday, Sunday, Tuesday and Wednesday at the BC Service Building, South End-624 4th St. Invermere. Please call 250-3422424 for more information or to speak with someone from our fellowship.

Al-Anon. Are you concerned about or affected by someone else’s drinking? For more information or to speak with someone from our fellowship, please call 250-878-2448 or 250-342-8392

A cheers to the lady who found my keys in CastleRock on January 28 and made the effort to return them!

Cheers to the person who turned in my credit card to the RCMP. Your honesty is very much appreciated.

Cheers to Tina N. at Lambert -Kipp Pharmacy for the friendly service every time I go into the store!

Cheers to Treasures in the Wind for your incredible community support. What a unique Thrift Store with all kinds of treasures. Cheers to Brenda for such a fun and welcoming place to shop!

Cheers to Heath at Selkirk Cellulars. One call to him and everything that I needed was ready and waiting for me. Great service!

Cheers to Jacob- BCAA/Kool Country. Regular service, needed more. You not only moved the Van so you could get at it but you also left it with easy access plus advised of the likelihood of a continued problem/ a fix . White Knight service.

Edgewater Community Hall 7:00 pm Saturday, February 8, 2025

• Annual Reports

• Election of Directors

• Plans for 14th Annual Festival

• Bursary News

• Coffee/Tea/Dessert

• Music & Mingle

Cheers to Brenda of B. B.’s Home & Design Services. Brenda is meticulous and thorough with her cleaning. I highly recommend!!!

Cheers to The Village of Radium celebrating Christmas in February! Commitment to a cause is hard to find these days.

A big cheers for the great x country tracks on the lake this year, especially on the north end, much appreciated, and enjoyed!

The Village of Radium Hot Springs is in search of a highly organized person as its FireSmart Coordinator. This contract position will work as part of the Village’s FireSmart team and will support, develop, and implement FireSmart activities in the Village.

Some duties include:

• Serve as the main point of contact for the Village’s FireSmart program

• Administer and seek out FireSmart and wildfire fuel reduction granting opportunities

• Create public communications and facilitate education related to FireSmart activities in the Village

• Organize and participate in community FireSmart events such as community wildfire preparedness days and other public events to enhance FireSmart awareness

• Support community forest fuel mitigation projects

Working with the Village’s other Local FireSmart Representative, coordinate FireSmart home and infrastructure assessments in the Village

Excellent organizational and public presentation skills are key to this contract position. The contractor will attend the annual FireSmart BC Wildfire Resiliency and Training Summit, train to become a Local FireSmart Representative, and continually learn in the role.

Wildland and/or structural firefighting experience is an asset. Must hold a valid BC Class 5 Driver’s License. The contractor will provide their own IT equipment, workspace, and transportation. The contract is up to 25 hours per week March to August and up to 15 hours per week September to December.

Some evening and weekend work will be required. Scheduled check-in meetings with Village staff will be a part of the work. A satisfactory Canada criminal records check will be required.

Rate will be up to $40 per hour depending on experience. The contract term will run until December 31, 2025, with an opportunity to renew for another year.

Those with relevant experience and skills are encouraged to email a resume and cover letter by Monday February 10, 2025 to:

Adrian Bergles, Chief Administrative Officer Village of Radium Hot Springs cao@radiumhotsprings.ca

The Village thanks all those who apply. Only those selected for an interview will be contacted.

COMPANION Services for Seniors. Since 2014 we’ve provided kind and compassionate non-medical care, transportation to Cranbrook, overnight care, meal prep, grocery shopping and more. Excellent local references. 250-341-5683 Heartfeltcompanionservices.com

Career Opportunity Director of Public Works

Are you awesome? A team builder and creator of strong workplace culture whose project management skill and leadership abilities match your personality? If you are then the Village of Radium Hot Springs is looking for you!

The Village seeks an experienced Director of Public Works who can lead, develop, and mentor the Public Works Team into the future.

Radium is a fast-growing BC Resort Municipality with close access to skiing, trails, golf, hot springs, the Columbia River, and the BC backcountry.

In addition to your general awesomeness – and ability to work well as a member of a highfunctioning team – the ideal candidate will hold Applied Science Technologist or Professional Engineering Certification in British Columbia with a track record of success and organizational and cultural improvement in progressively senior roles – preferably in the local government sector. In return the Village offers a competitive salary ($100,000 to $120,000 annual range, depending on experience), comprehensive benefits including a defined benefit pension (BC’s Municipal Pension Plan), and superior work-life combination.

As a key member of the senior management team, and reporting to the Chief Administrative Officer, you will oversee the Village’s public works department (seven staff), including its water and sewer utilities, roads, parks, fleet, and facilities. You will provide guidance and strategic advice within the organization and be accountable for effective administration of the public works department of the Village including staff management and oversight, budget development, project management including design/design review and tendering, reporting, WorkSafeBC requirements, and Development Services department support including review of development proposals.

Desired knowledge includes:

• Excellent ability to manage and motivate staff

• Excellent understanding of municipal budgets and budget administration

• Excellent organizational and time management skills – able to work alone

• Excellent computer skills including Microsoft Office: Word, Excel, and Outlook. Must be able to track budgets and projects electronically

• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills and the ability to interact with people in a professional manner

• Ability to read blueprints, engineering plans, drawings, and sketches

• Demonstrated project management ability

• Experience creating and implementing policies and procedures

• Excellent understanding of municipal infrastructure and maintenance requirements and asset management

Personality is key! Awesome candidates should submit a resume and cover letter by Monday February 17, 2025 to:

Adrian Bergles, Chief Administrative Officer Village of Radium Hot Springs cao@radiumhotsprings.ca

The Village of Radium Hot Springs thanks all applicants for their interest. Only applicants selected for an interview will be contacted.

Village of Radium Hot Springs

P.O. Box 340, 4836 Radium Blvd, Radium Hot Springs, B.C.

PHOTOS CHRIS MOSELEY

The U11A team (in blue and orange) from the Windermere Valley Minor Hockey Association travelled on the weekend to Castlegar for a tournament, which saw teams from Canada and the U.S. participate. Here the team plays close games against West Kelowna and Cranbrook for a tie and a win.

by Arnold Malone

Better off as Canadians

This is part 1 of a two-part series.

There is a chap that lives south of us in Washington DC. He has a white house. He talks a lot. Recently, he has been talking about Canada becoming the 51st State.

Now, there are citizens in the USA - likely a minority - that think this would be a good idea. Here in Canada, the overwhelming majority of citizens are horrified by the thought.

This article is to offer doubt for those who might think such an arrangement would be a good idea. We Canadians have considerable advantages over the USA. That guy down south, Donald Trump (if you haven’t guessed already), has it all backwards. Americans would be better off if they became Canadian.

Of course, Americans will need to wait their turn. Our respect for the people of Yukon, Northwest Territories and Nunavut would certainly have provincial priority over the USA. Therefore, USA would have to wait their turn to become our 14th province.

Here is a list of reasons why Americans would love to be Canadian:

• Americans would welcome a less awkward system for governing with less divisive procedures that block legislative progress.

• They would find it refreshing to get rid of those darn mid-term elections. With the current system in the USA, they always are campaigning for an election which leaves too little time for thoughtful governing.

• Canadian elections must be offered and completed within 36 to 50 days. USA elections bull horn their insults for a year and a half, then have an election, then govern for a year, then repeat.

• They could finally get rid of that silly thing called an Electoral College. It was established in 1787 when it was held that an uneducated voter might not know

how to make a proper choice. So, a few so-called wise people would consider the public’s vote but submit what they thought would be a better selection. If Americans were Canadian then their vote would be counted directly. No wise guys watering down democracy.

• The chap who keeps talking about Canada becoming the 51st state thinks that we would love the idea because our taxes would be lower. His tax comment is true. However, that fellow forgot to consider that if you take what an American pays in taxes and then add on what they must pay for private health insurance then the Canadian and USA costs are close to the same. That, of course, sets aside that 20 million Americans have no health coverage of any sort.

• By being Canadian, USA government workers, across all 50 states, could quit being scared out of their boots while the Senate and the House of Representatives debate over extending government financing for weeks until some midnight deadline is reached, allowing the government to pay workers for the work they have already done.

• If USA residents were to become Canadian, they would enjoy a better education. Canadian schools rank fourth in the world in the disciplines of literacy, math and science; considerably ahead of America. The USA has many wonderful universities. They also have a long list of crap universities. In Canada each province has an accreditation system to establish a standard for being called a college or a university. The USA has no such oversight. In the USA any person or group can start a university. The USA has a long list of universities that offer a degree worth only the same value as the paper it is printed on. You may have heard of Trump University?

My next article (part 2) will continue with the list showing how happy Americans would be if only they had some of the advantages that we Canadians enjoy.

Columbia Valley Churches

LAKE WINDERMERE ALLIANCE CHURCH

While you are with us, you are always welcome to join us. Sunday at 10:30 am 326 10th Avenue, Invermere 250-342-9535 | www.lwac.ca

WINDERMERE VALLEY SHARED MINISTRY (Anglican - United)

Sunday Services - 10:30 am 110 - 7th Ave. in Invermere website - wvsm.ca Minister: Brent Woodard 250-342-6644

VALLEY CHRISTIAN ASSEMBLY

Pastor: Justin Furse

Sunday 10 a.m. Worship Service 4814 Highway Drive, Windermere 250-342-9511 | www.vcachurch.net

ROMAN CATHOLIC CHURCH

St. Anthony’s, Canal Flats: Saturday, 4 pm Canadian Martyrs’, Invermere: Saturday 5 pm, Sunday 9 am St. Joseph’s, Radium: Sunday 11 am Father Francis Dela Cruz | 712 -12th Ave., Invermere 250-342-6167

RADIUM CHRISTIAN FELLOWSHIP

Sunday 10 a.m. Worship service Pastor Wayne and Linda Frater | 250-342-6633 #4, 7553 Main St. Radium | 250-347-9937

CHURCH OF JESUS CHRIST OF LATTER-DAY SAINTS

Worship Service, Sunday, 11 a.m. Sunday School, 10 a.m. President Kendyn Mackensie • Columbia Valley Branch • 5014 Fairway, Fairmont Hot Springs 250-439-9041

CHURCH OF CHRIST (Iglesia ni Cristo)

Worship Service: Sunday 9 a.m., Thursday 7:45 p.m. Chamber of Commerce (Lions Hall) For inquiries: 250-688-1643 250-270-2208 or 250-688-0629 For more info about the church, you can Google online at incmedia.org or pasugo.com.ph

Like a giant snake, the Columbia River winds its way through the valley (as seen from the Radium lookout).

PHOTO JUSTIN SAIN