April 6, 2023

(Top ) Pivot Bridge, Columbia River, Eagle Ranch & Fairmont Range. (Middle left) The calm before the storm. Toby Creek slowly thaws before joining the Columbia. (Middle right) Paddlers can’t wait to get on the Columbia River. (Bottom) Every type of weather rolled through the valley Saturday. But it is rarely everywhere all at once. Photos by Ryan Watmough

Windermer skier grabs World Cup silver

Tenth ranked in ski cross, Hoffos saves season with penultimate podium apperance

By Steve Hubrecht steve@columbiavalleypioneer.com

Windermere Olympian Courtney

Hoffos finally grabbed the success she was looking all season and it came during the penultimate race of the 2022-2023 World Cup ski cross season — her first medal of the season, a silver.

e 25-year-old took the podium on March 17 following the second to last race of the season in Craigleith, Ontario. A “sparkling finish” to what was otherwise a tough season, she said. e silver was Hoffos’ first podium of the year — a long-awaited result, she said

“I’ve been skiing fine, but not hitting the marks I want to,” said Hoffos. e difference between skiing well from a technical perspective and earning less-thandesired results became “frustrating” as the winter wore on, she said.

Hoffos was born in Invermere, grew up in Windermere, began skiing with the Windermere Valley Ski Club when she was six years old, and graduated from David ompson Secondary School (DTSS).

Since then she’s been pursuing her ski cross career, but still returns to the valley, where her family lives, any time she’s not training or skiing with the Canadian team. Alpine Canada lists Windermere as her hometown.

e course in Craigleith was “turn-y and hectic,” said Hoffos of her first visit to the course.

ere was an unusually steep pitch and more linked giant slalom than normal.

“ e flow was very fast paced, and there was not a lot of space between features. It was constant.”

is, she outlined, meant a lot of technical skills were needed to ski the course well, which suits her skiing style. In addition warm weather softened the course and made it bumpy. “It was a bit of a battlefield out there,” she said

Her final race of the season came the following day at Craigleith. Hoffos’ follow up was a seventh-place finish to close out the 2022/2023 World Cup season.

Continued on page 16 . . .

Council tweaks details in 2023 budget

By Steve Hubrecht steve@columbiavalleypioneer.com

e District of Invermere’s 2023 budget was tweaked a bit last week, prior to getting two further readings during the Tuesday, Mar. 28 council meeting.

A total of six changes were made during the meeting, including the Columbia Valley Centre’s 35-foot projector screen, funding for a new bank swallow habitat project in the Lake Windermere Resort Lands, a sprinkler trailer for the Invermere Fire Department, increased funding for the planned Christmas tree for the Cenotaph Plaza, a new plow blade for one of the district’s snowplow trucks, and increased funding for Invermere’s public works electric vehicle, electric vehicle charging station, and the solar panels to go on the courthouse.

e sprinkler trailer, the projector screen, and the Christmas tree is paid for by grants and donations, but some budget changes are partly funded through district reserves. ese reserves have been set aside from budgetary surpluses from past years — in essence, Invermere taxpayers

e green energy initiatives collectively will cost $149,000 ($20,000 for the solar panels, $23,000 for the electric ve-

hicle charging station, and $106,000 for the electric vehicle itself). Columbia Basin Trust (CBT) grants will pay for $97,900 of that, with the remaining $51,100 coming from reserves.

Invermere chief administrative officer Karen Cote explained that the district was not eligible for provincial or federal rebates for the electric vehicle as it had hoped, so chose to make up that cost from reserves, and that the charging station costs more than originally planned because the district opted to get a double charging station instead of the single one applied for under the CBT grant.

“ e cost to increase it to a double-charging station was nominal and it allows for potential for future electric vehicles for the public works department,” said Cote.

e increased budget for solar panels is to allow for any potential structural changes that may be needed to the courthouse roof structure to accommodate the additional weight of the panels, she added.

e bank swallow habitat will cost $22,500, with $5,000 of that coming from a grant and the rest from reserves.

Local Olympian

Windermere Olympian

Courtney Hoffos finally grabbed the podium with with a silver performan ce at a recent World Cup ski cross event in Craigleith Ontario last month. Hofos is ranked tenth in the world in her ski discpline, a comeback after dropping in ranking during the pandemic.

RCMP Report

Released by: Cpl. Jeff Witzke, Columbia Valley RCMP is past week, March 27th through April 2nd, e Columbia Valley RCMP responded to 53 calls for service. e following is a Summary of some of the file our officers responded to.

Over the course of 10 days the Columbia Valley RCMP received 15 reports of vehicles being rummaged through or broken into. Several items were stolen including credit cards that were fraudulently used within in the Columbia Valley. rough investigation avenues, members were able to identify a suspect believed to be involved in most, if not all the crimes that were committed. ey also located a stolen vehicle (reported out of Calgary) that was used by the suspect. e suspect was located, arrested and is currently in custody. Police are

recommending over 40 Criminal Code charges be laid.

On March 27th the Columbia Valley RCMP received a complaint of a person walking in the middle of the road which seemed suspicious. Members made patrols and the located the individual who stated they walk in the middle of the road as it’s the flattest part of the road and will move if a vehicle comes by. Police were unsure of this logic and strongly advised against it.

In the early morning hours on April 2nd the Columbia Valley RCMP were dispatched to a vehicle rollover on the Westroc mine RD. Members attended the scene where some of the occupants were being treated for minor injuries by EHS. e driver of the vehicle was issued a ticket for drive with due care and attention and operating a vehicle with to many occupants inside.

Burn marks cause concern

By Steve Hubrecht steve@columbiavalleypioneer.com

Invermere resident Nadine Hale is raising concern after discovering a burn mark near the Canadian Pacific Rail tracks at the south of town.

Hale found the burn mark on the evening of March 30, while out for a walk. It is immediately west of the tracks along the western shore of Lake Windermere, a few hundred metres south of Walker’s Lane.

According to Hale, the burn mark is about 10 to 15 metres by five metres in size, and spreads uphill from the track.

“It is incredibly concerning,” said Hale. “It seems it went about halfway up the slope to the forest (above).”

Hale suspects a spark from a passing train may have been the source of the burn.

She said that although she can’t be 100 per cent certain, the burn that left the mark “probably happened quite recently.” is is because she lives on the adjacent property and frequently walks in the area. She said it is “very likely” she would have

seen the mark if the burn occurred months ago, prior to winter. e snow only left the slope a few weeks ago, leaving a small window of time in which she believes the burn could have happened.

e Pioneer reached out to CP Rail for comment. CP Rail spokesperson Salem Woodrow promptly responded, but said she doesn’t know what the burn mark is. She said she would look into it, but added detailed answers could take time.

Other Invermere residents living above the tracks in south part of the community also expressed concern.

“It’s scary that close to home,” said Buzz Harmsworth, Hale’s neighbour.

“It could’ve been much worse during the summertime,” said Herb Weller, another neighbour.

Lana Banham runs the smallscale Homestead Harvest farm in the same area. She called the burn marks “eye-opening” and said “it’s a little terrifying to think that could happen while it’s still wet out.”

Invermere mayor Al Miller said the Invermere Fire Department

planned to inspect the burn mark on April 3, but snow the night before postponed that plan. Still, he shared residents’ concern.

“If this would’ve happened in summer, it could’ve been scary,” said Miller. “It’s something we need to investigate when the conditions allow.”

Miller said a train spark causing a burn is “only an assumption.”

It might instead have been a cigarette butt discarded by somebody walking down the track.

“We do see that too,” said Miller. “I don’t want to jump to conclusions until we have solid evidence. Yes, it is a concern. We are going to look further into it.”

Hale said she is surprised at how flammable the grass is right now, considering the winter snow cover disappeared only a few weeks ago.

Sparks from campfires on the Hale’s property have already begun to light surrounding grass when they land, instead of simply extinguishing in the wet ground, as they often do in spring, she said.

Continued on page 16. . .

Student art exhibitions soon

By Steve Hubrecht steve@columbiavalleypioneer.com

Columbia Valley’s young artists will be front and centre in the local arts scene this spring, with the annual Art From the Heart exhibition launching this week at Pynelogs Cultural Centre, followed in short order by the Li’l Peeps Arts Show and then the REACH Art Show, both at the Columbia Valley Centre.

Art from the Heart features the artwork of students from all elementary schools in the valley, from Edgewater Elementary School in the north down to Martin Morigeau Elementary School in the south, and will run at Pynelogs from April 6 to April 22.

e Li’l Peeps Art Show showcases art made by preschool children from several local daycares, and will run from April 18 to May 15. Older students then get their turn during the REACH Art Show, which features art from David ompson Secondary School (DTSS) in Invermere and runs from May 16 to May 31.

is is the first time the REACH Art Show will be at the Columbia Valley Centre, and the second time the space will be used for the Li’l Peeps Art Show. e works will go up in the centre’s large foyer.

“It’s a great venue for these shows,” said Columbia

Valley Arts Council executive director Cajsa Fredin.

CV Arts wants to expand its community reach, and having those two shows in the Columbia Valley Centre is “an amazing opportunity” to that end, said Fredin. Many children already regularly go the centre for non-art related reasons, such visiting the Invermere Public Library, and when they do so during the spring, they will see the space filled with their art and that of their peers.

Having the Li’l Peeps Art Show at the Columbia Valley Centre also makes it much more accessible for local daycare kids to come see the show, since some of Invermere’s larger daycare centres are within easy walking distance of the centre, she said.

e time of the REACH Art Show aligns nicely with graduation and other end-of-year events at DTSS, which typically begin some time in mid to late May and are ongoing through June, added Fredin.

e Li’l Peeps Art Show will involve 40 to 50 preschool artists, Art from the Heart involves more than 800 elementary school age artists, and the REACH Art Show will feature more than 1,000 works from DTSS students.

Fredin and CV Arts coordinate the three student art exhibitions in conjunction with art teachers in the various schools.

PERSPECTIVE

Juggling chaos on re

Slowly visiting around the community over the last couple of weeks, I’ve introduced myself as the “new editor” of e Pioneer and most folks have been very quick to share their thoughts and opinions on the the paper -- ank you.

Yes, things are traditional and were listening. And, yes, we endeavour to refine some things. It is the nature of change and we recognize there has been a lot of change recently. I am certainly part of that.

I’ve been in the valley for eight years. I actually live my daily life here, and I’ve seen how many of you live yours. ere is a way about this place that is often lost on new people.

ose in the valley who’ve known me previously would best recognize me with the helmet and goggles covering my face. e Summit Chair and Tayton Bowl have been previously comprised of my public conversations with the varied levels of society — local leaders, teachers, doctors, builders and several generations deep.

A chair lift is somewhere between a confessional and a bar stool in that people talk about life, love and the goings on in their community — even when you just want to listen to the Beastie Boys and enjoy the wind while mind-mapping the next run through Tayton Bowl.

Society is bound together by listening to each other, so I listened then as well.

Now, I am the editor of your community paper and I hope to reassure you that the publisher didn’t just give the paper over to a ski bum. Well, not totally. How bad could that go anyway?

I had a former life as a newspaper editor in the United States and e Pioneer is now my tenth newspaper. I’ve covered everything from Boston crime to Alaskan education. It was a great run, but I eventually and willingly left behind the newsroom as the industry collapsed under debt loads, a crippling deficit of imagination and an unfounded need to delight rather than inform. I have no intention of reliving those issues. Let’s see what works. Let’s see how this thing goes.

What is unique for me personally, this time around, is that e Pioneer is my first newspaper job covering my own community; one that I’ve been part of for years rather than being a newbie living in a place because of work. For the first time, I have a loaded bias in favour of the community — Invermere and e Columbia Valley. I choose to be here and I am grateful to have this place as my home.

Otherwise, newspapering is still newspapering --juggling chaos on fire.

--- Greg Skinner

Old Brisco

An old Ford passes down the old Highway 95 near Briso

Letters

Dear Editor,

With retrospect to the approach taken by the Columbia Valley Recreation Planning Initiative, I was very disappointed to learn from the article in last weeks Pioneer that the Initiative’s beginning declaration was that “Everyone agreed that there should be room for all recreationists”. is is surely an outdated way to begin a planning process to enable long term ecosystem health.

Following this declaration, the co-chair of the CVRPI then stated that “the status quo is not sustainable.” is statement is a direct contradiction to the “Room for all recreation” proposal. e problem to solve is not how to fit “all recreationists” into a limited landscape unit but rather that there is not room for “all recreationists” in the Steamboat Mountain Landscape Unit.

Crown lands have been intensively managed by various provincial agencies for overlapping tenures, seasonal use and one time permits: ranching, logging, Christmas tree production, camping, hunting, fishing, firewood gathering, fence rail

cutting, recreation sites, etc. Trained individuals and specialists look at an area in a wholistic manner before allocating permits and locations for these purposes. When carefully considered, there is generally a beneficial path agreed upon.

However, today’s much increased unregulated demand and pressure from the mechanized recreation sector (ATV, side by side, bicycles, dirt bikes, motorized vehicles and random camping, etc.) is challenging all the systems and protocols whereby public lands are managed. Mechanized recreationists believe it is their right to go wherever they want on Public lands, and so they do. While some recreationist respect natural values in principle, there are many that don’t and vividly display their lack of respect.

For instance, at the north end of the Dry Gulch portion of the Columbia Wetlands Wildlife Management Area (CWWMA), designated in 1996 under the Wildlife Act with conservation as its priority. Mountain bikers bullied their way in hacking trails into the fragile dry hillsides

and now we are being asked to contribute to a “Dry Gulch Recreation Plan” rather than a Conservation Plan? What gives? Is the Wildlife act to be ignored?

Recreationists seldom think that what they do causes wildlife to leave an area however long-term residents have witnessed a steady decline in wildlife and diversity of plant communities in “room for all” areas. Wildland habitat cannot sustain use by all users without cumulative negative effect. We are far past an era where everyone can claim rights for their type of recreation in all places at all times.

at said, passionate recreational users need places for their activities. For instance, shooting enthusiasts make use of a designated area at the south end of Steamboat Mountain. Some dirt bike/mountain bike areas have been allocated and other least damage locations need to be identified, in particular away from already designated CWMMA’s like Dry Gulch which have been set aside primarily for conservation.

e current unregulated ap-

Letters

Dear Editor,

e Native Women’s Association of Canada is disheartened that the federal government’s Budget 2023 has once again failed to address critical issues facing Indigenous women, girls, and gender-diverse people: particularly addressing MMIWG and

Dear Editor, e Columbia Valley Recreation Planning Initiative has been engaged in for years

e CVRPI is a community-led initiative that attempts to bring together the various interests that have an interest in and use of the public land in our valley to provide recommendations to the Provincial and First Nations governments on how a cross section of the local community feels that recreation should be managed. e Planning Committee takes advice and input from relevant people, in the form of an advisory committee, for each area that it studies. For the Steamboat Landscape Unit the advisory committee was made up significantly of landowners, tenure holders and as much input from environmental sources that we were able to take, given that there is no funding for any scientific studies. e CVRPI planning committee conducted numerous tours of the area with members of the advisory committee over the last 2 years and these tours highlighted the devastating impact that the current

...letters from 6.

economic opportunity.

e federal government released its budget earlier today, outlining the fiscal, social, and economic priorities for the upcoming year.

A budget is about priorities – and Budget 2023 has failed to make it a top priority to protect and empower Indigenous women, girls and gender-diverse

unregulated use of the area immediately to the west of Radium has had and the threat that poses to wildlife and tenure holders.

e Recreation Planning Committee in reaching its recommendations took into account all of the factors mentioned in the article but balanced them against the current land uses, such as the Horsethief FSR and tenure by the Rod and Gun Club, which are under jurisdiction of the Provincial Government.

e planning committee furthermore took the view that the best way to reduce the impact of current use patterns is to work with the Valley-based recreation societies which meant that any solutions had to allow for some recreation to garner their support. We recognized that completely shutting down the area west of Radium was not only beyond our ability but also goes against the needs of local community to be able to conduct some recreation close to home.

We agree that it is better to reduce the burden of recreation and thus, in agreement with the local recreation societies, have recommended that all

proach where new users bully their way into protected and critical areas is not working. To continue random activities in active wildlife corridors such as in the Steamboat Mountain Landscape Unit or Dry Gulch Wildlife Management areas because self-identified Recreationists

people. We wanted to see investments rooted in the principles of reconciliation and empowerment – and a commitment to Indigenous people taking our full place in Canadian society through significant investments in Indigenous reconciliation efforts that directly impact the well-being of Indigenous women. What we saw instead is a

trails in use must be properly established through the Section 57 process and application to local government, where further evaluation of environmental factors and agricultural requirements (via the ALC) is quite rightly addressed. We believe that by working with the recreational societies in a responsible manner, and properly establishing trails where it is appropriate will provide better protections to the local environment than the current free-for-all that exists. We have to remember that under current provincial law all members of the public have a right to use crown land and that the only hope to improve the situation is to work with all members of our society and promote best practices.

e wider recommendations in the document will, we believe, eventually have the effect of pushing much of the visiting recreation and camping into the areas that the current tenure holders and environmentalists would prefer. By significantly reducing the current pressures, coupled with the self regulation by valley-based societies and restrictions put in place

declare that there should be room for everyone is folly. e first layer of a recreation plan should identify and respect wildland values and current management designations. Additional uses, if compatible, can then be identified.

Let’s not spoil what we have,

lack of investment to end economic marginalization of Indigenous women in order to end the violence against them to ensure full participation in the Canadian economy.

It’s time for the Federal government to walk the reconciliation talk ere can’t be reconciliation without reducing the rates of violence, Continued on page 23...

by the Section 57 process, it shoul2d go a long way towards resolution of the identified issues. We note that the area is used by both locals and visitors and further confirm that the whole Columbia Valley is a valuable wildlife corridor. e recommendations made are the best we could achieve given the multitude of conflicting factors, given we cannot shut down the entire landscape unit to recreation without a change to the law, and this would not be supported across the community. We would also like to highlight the contentious area is a matter of several hundred acres of land that is already heavily used and that the CVRPI has recommended stronger measure across tens of thousands of acres in other parts of the Steamboat landscape unit. We accept this is not the perfect solution, but it is the best compromise a wide selection of the community could make given the wide variety of competing factors for land use, many of which are mutually exclusive.

Adrian Pery and Clara Reinhardt, Co-chairs CVRPI

the challenge now more than ever is to find ways to adapt and/or place mechanized recreation in planned areas that respect functioning and protected ecosystems so that healthy habitat is available and preserved in sensitive areas.

—Peter Christensen, Imvermere

REQUEST FOR PROPOSAL

Edgewater Recreation Society is requesting quotes for an automated sprinkler/irrigation system for Wittman Field’s Outfield, which has 3294 sq. meters of coverage.

Contractors should have experience in designing and installing sports field irrigation systems. Proposals should include technical and pricing details, project schedule, warranty, and references. Edgewater Recreation Society is currently in the grant application process to fund this project, therefore contractors should understand that rewarding of any contract is dependent on successful grant application.

To view the site, please call 1(204) 740-0875

Please submit your proposal by Friday, April 14 to:

Edgewater Recreation Society PO Box 114, Edgewater, BC V0A1E0

240671.pdf

Hospice Society of the Columbia Valley Presents

the Hospice Society of the Columbia Valley.

Theme: “For the Love of Chocolate”

We want to hear from you

Email your letters to info@columbiavalleypioneer.com or visit our website at www.columbiavalleypioneer.com. Mail your letters to Box 868, Invermere, V0A 1K0, or drop them in at #8 1008-8th Avenue. Letters to the editor should be sent only to e Pioneer, and not to other publications. We do not publish open letters or third-party letters. Letters for publication should be no longer than 400 words, and must include the writer’s address and phone numbers. No attachments, please. Letters may be shortened for space requirements. We reserve the right to edit for space, clarity, civility and accuracy. Opinions expressed are those of the writer, not e Pioneer.

The cafe will be serving up great eats, specialty coffees, and best - the eggs Benny! Check out our Facebook page for weekly take home meal offerings

Treat your Shelf

CBT decision will not be reversed Trust moved environmental education money into ecosystem enhancement budget for 2023

By Steve Hubrecht steve@columbiavalleypioneer.com

A larger than expected crowd turned out for the Columbia Basin Trust’s (CBT) community engagement session in Invermere on Apr 3.

Top of mind for many there was the CBT’s withdrawal of funding for local and regional environmental education programs.

“We need continued support for existing environmental education programs,” said Windermere resident Michelle Rievaj.

Rievaj added that environmental education is “not just for kids in school” but should be “an ongoing community education.”

About 80 people attended the evening event, which was the first such in-person engagement session the CBT has held since the Covid pandemic. CBT staff had to keep bringing out extra chairs, and told the Pioneer it was far more participation than they expected.

e CBT’s funding changes for environmental education, including those for the Columbia Basin Environmental Education Network (CBEEN)’s and Wildsight’s programs, will take effect at the end of the current school year.

CBT president and chief executive officer Johnny Strilaeff said that the CBT’s decision is a response to public consultation in 2020.

“Residents were really clear [in 2020] that they wanted dollars to go to on-the

ground ecosystem restoration and enhancement,” said Strilaeff. “ e CBT has developed new programs for those priorities, and when we launched new programs the funding has to come from somewhere else.”

During the session, attendees broke into groups for small discussions at table, then a spokesperson shared each table’s collective opinion with the entire crowd. In total seven of the 11 tables at the event underscored environmental education as either the top priority or at least a big priority.

Environmental education was mentioned in multiple contexts — as tool to help foster better care for Invermere’s surroundings; as something that deserves more dedicated space in school curriculums; and the looming withdrawal of funding.

“Environmentally literate kids will create a sustainable future,” said Invermere resident Lorene Keitch.

Strilaeff said CBT redirected funding away from older, now less-prioritized programs, such as environmental education.

“ at was one of the toughest decisions,” said Strilaeff.

e Apr. 3 engagement session is expected to inform the CBT’s next management plan. is means there’s no chance the withdrawal of funding for CBEEN and Wildsight in 2023 will be reversed this year.

Restaurants use up stock before plastic ban begins

Snack Bar owner and chef Yan erien sets out a small regular poutine in

2023, in Radium Hot Springs. erien said his takeaway business is working through the options

lations on commercial single-use plastic before the final dealine in December.

By Greg Skinner editor@columbiavalleypioneer.com

One of the fantastic ideas to replace plastic straws floated around the Canadian restaurant industry came from Red Lobster — use red liquorice instead.

With the presumed last summer season of single-use plastic just ahead for the Columbia Valley, local takeaway shops are working through the remaining stock of soon-to-be banned single use plastic containers, plastic cutlery and plastic bags.

Local restaurants are now trying a mishmash of compostable, recyclable and fibre based packaging and cutlery as they try to figure out how to package food with allowable alternatives.

At the moment there are no single use plastic bylaws governing plastic use in the valley. e entire enterprise to ban plastics in Canada, at this phase, is more or less regulated by the outlawing of manufacturing and importing as a means to dry up the national supply on the way to the real the goal of a single use plastic free Canada by 2030.

Most businesses are working based on the federal guidelines and restaurant industry groups are certainly encouraging their members to make the switch. Restaurants Canada promotes their members to go forward before regulations dictate. ey call it, “Future Ready Food Service.”

“Our organization and our members acknowledge that consumers want their dining experiences to be as environmentally sustainable as possible, but also want convenience.”

Yan erien, co owner of the Snack Bar in Radium Hot Springs, said the Snack Bar switched to biobased food containers all ready. For a while, their famous poutine also went out the front window with wooden cutlery. Essentially, a plastic free exchange. erien switched back to plastic utensils. For the moment, with such high food inflation, wood cutlery got too expensive, he said. against a tight margins. ere is still the cost ahead for him to change over to paper bags and reusable food baskets.

“I’ll switch back,” said erien.

Cost and availability are the primary factors effecting the single use changes at Fabuki Sushi in Athalmer.

“Some will work and some won’t,”owner and head chef Dan Shoemaker said. “Basically, replacing plastic is just going to cost more.”

ere are sugar cain products and natural fibre bases that serve the needs, he said.

As a result of the continued sourcing issues and his interest in innovation, Shoemaker is looking outside the traditional supply chains for alternatives for one of the most important and basic needs of selling take-away sushi, the clear plastic top.

e ban on single use plastic imports is already affecting suppliers, who Shoemaker said now scramble to find products to fit changing standards.

“ e supply chain was already messy from the global effects of the Covid pandemic,” he said.

A full end of plastic use just hasn’t happened yet. We will see what happens, he said.

erien proposed that food ser-

With single use imports banned, food service works with suppliers to find acceptable packaging alternatives during confusing times

The file is missing!

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Columbia Valley Chamber Of Commerce

CVCC 2 pg Spread LHP April 6

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OUT OF OFFICE…

AGM

Reflections

and Looking Ahead

On Wednesday, March 29 th , we held our Annual General Meeting where we reflect on the past year and look forward to what’s ahead. Earlier last year, we were able to lay out our Strategic Plan and priorities through 2025. Our Vision states that we are “to be the voice of business for the Columbia Valley”. Our new strategic priorities include advocacy, member engagement, and business/ economic resilience in the Columbia Valley.

To achieve these goals, the CVCC is on over 18 boards/ committees and part of groups. Some of these include, Angel Flight East Kootenay, Community Futures of East Kootenay, Columbia Valley Housing Society, Columbia Valley Physician Recruitment, Imagine Kootenay, RDEK Transit Committee, and the BC Economic Development Association to name a few. Most recently, we have been added to the “Influencer Tier” of the BC Chamber, and just returned from the BC Chamber 2023 Premier and; cabinet luncheon to discuss Columbia Valley housing with the BC Minister of Housing.

We also enjoy our programs such as Love Local, Volunteer Awareness and Appreciation, Co-hosting the Holly Jolly and Winter Wonderland Markets, organizing the annual Job Fair and Career Expo and our monthly learning/ networking events. Of course, we thank our members for their support, allowing us to have a broad reach in the community, region, province and country.

Upcoming is the Business Best Ball Golf Tournament! This is happening on May 15 th at the Fairmont Hot Springs Riverside Golf Course. This is one of the Chamber’s big annual fundraisers and one of our favourite days of networking. All support from this event helps us continue to run our programs! We invite any members, golf enthusiasts, and working partners to register singles, doubles, trios or foursomes, become a sponsor, or donate to our auction.

More information can be found at www.cvchamber.ca/ businessbestball.

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WHAT’S HAPPENING? cvevents.ca

CVCC 2 pg Spread RHP April 6

POWERED BY THE COLUMBIA VALLEY CHAMBER

6 x 13.92

ursday, April 6

• 9:15 a.m.: StrongStart/CAP-C at Edgewater Elementary on Tuesdays and Thursdays. Join this free drop-in program; ages 0 to 5 + caregivers.

• 10 a.m.: Parent & Tot Connect at Frater Landing. Parents & ages 0-6 are invited to this FREE drop-in program. Tuesdays & Thursdays.

• 10 a.m.-noon: Pickleball Club drop-in play.

• 10:15 a.m.: Tech Time at the Invermere Public Library. Come for one-on-one tech help drop-ins.

• 10:30 a.m.: Senior's Fitness at the Columbia Valley Centre, $2 drop-in.

• 12- 1 p.m.: Seniors' Lunch at the Invermere Legion. To reserve, call Jan at 250-342-1196.

• 2- 3 p.m.: Senior's Tea at the Invermere Public Library. All community members welcome to stop by the library for a cup of tea and a chat! Every 2nd & 4th Thursday of the month.

• 2 p.m.: Tech Time at the Radium Public Library. Come for one-on-one tech help – bring your device.

• 3 p.m.: FREE Youth Drop-In Fun at the Summit Youth Centre Hub. Grade 7-12 come to meet, hang out and enjoy time with friends.

• 5-7 p.m. Art from the Heart: An art show from the 6th – 22nd at Pynelogs. Come enjoy art from Elementary school kids of the Columbia Valley.

• 6:30 p.m.: Invermere E Pickleball League play

• 6:45 p.m.: Texas Hold 'Em Poker Tournament at the Invermere Legion every Thursday for members and guests. $30 buy-in.

• 7:30 p.m.: Trivia Night at the Windermere Whitehouse Pub, 3/person, teams of more than 6 will be split into two groups.

Friday, April 7

• 9:15 a.m.: StrongStart Eileen Madson. Every Monday and Friday; Every 1st and 3rd Wednesday. For children 0- 5 and caregivers!

• 10 a.m.-noon: Pickleball Club drop-in play.

• 10:30 a.m.: Family Storytime at the Invermere Public Library. Join us at the library each week for stories, songs and a crafts!

• 11:30- 5 p.m. (until April 14): E usion Gallery Series “Spring Blooms”•

• 1 p.m.: FREE Youth Drop-In Fun at the Summit Youth Centre Hub. For grades 7-12, come meet, hang out and enjoy some great times with your friends.

• 3 p.m-close: Wings & Things at the Legion, pub grub done right!

• 5:30 p.m.: Adult Easter Egg Hunt; charity BBQ at Hopkins. Costs $10/person. Email merchantscorner@ hopkinsharvest.com

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

• 7 p.m. - 9 p.m.: Drop-In Adult Parkour Unit 6, 1340 Industrial Road #3. Adults are invited to drop-in for $20! Every 2nd Friday

• 7 p.m. - 9 p.m.: Dynamic Intuitive Archery Speed Shooting. Come try Archery at the Brisco Community Hall. Call Luraina at 250-688-1451 to register

• 9 p.m.: Karaoke Windermere Whitehouse Pub. Ages 19+.

• 9 p.m.: The Bombadiers & Oriba Live at Arrowhead. Come for Fresh Tracks Friday, costs $5 cover at the door. 9 until late, see you on the dance oor.

Saturday,

April 8

• 9:00 a.m.: Easter Egg Hunt at the Radium Center. Come for the scavenger hunt, goodie bags (while supplies last) and Easter crafts.

• 10 a.m.-noon: Pickleball Club drop-in play.

• 10:30 a.m.: LEGO/Duplo Club at the Invermere Public Library. We'll have Lego, Duplo, big blocks and more out to play with on Saturday mornings!

• 10:30 a.m.: Easter Egg Hunt at Mt. Nelson Athletic Park. Starts at 11 sharp. Prizes, bounce house, face painting, games, concession. For 12 and under; free.

• 10:30 a.m.: Pokemon Club at Main Street Fun & Games for ages 7+, Reading pro ciency required.

• 3 p.m. - midnight: Wings & Things at the Invermere Legion, pub grub done right!

• 6:30 p.m. - midnight: Meat Draw and 50/50 in the Legion, members and guests welcome.

Sunday, April 9

• 10 a.m.- 2 p.m.: Easter Brunch at Fairmont Hot Springs Resort. Call 250-345-6070 to book your reservation.

• 10 a.m. -2 p.m.: Easter Brunch at Eagle Ranch Resort. Adults cost $30, children cost $15. Visit EagleRanchResort.com/dinner-reservations to book your spot.

• 11 a.m. -2 p.m.: Toast & (music) Jam at the Village Social, Canal Flats. Bring your own instrument, join the jam or come enjoy live music.

• 2 p.m. - midnight.: Cards, Cribbage and Darts. Come to the Invermere Legion and have some fun! Members and guests welcome.

• 2 p.m.: Invermere Pickleball open play

• 3 p.m. - midnight: Wings & Things at the Invermere Legion, pub grub done right!

• 7 p.m.: Live Music at Horsethief Creek Pub & Eatery. Accompanied minors are permitted. No cover.

Monday, April 10

• 9:15 a.m.: StrongStart at Eileen Madson. Every Monday and Friday, every 1st and 3rd Wednesday. for children 0-5 and their caregivers!

• 10 a.m. Senior's Yoga at the Columbia Valley Centre, Invermere, B.C. $2 drop in, open to all seniors.

• 10:00 a.m.-noon: Pickleball Club drop-in play

• 3 p.m.: Youth Drop-In at The Edge in Edgewater. Youth grades 4-8 are invited to drop-in for fun with the Summit Youth Hub.

• 4 p.m.: FREE Youth Drop-In Fun: LGBTQ+ Summit Youth Centre Hub. For grades of 7-12, come to meet, hang out and enjoy your friends. FREE fun! Mondays are for LGBTQ+ and allies!

• 5 p.m.: Industry Night at the White House Pub in Windermere. Free pool + cheap drinks for resort and restaurant sta .

• 6:30 p.m.: Pickleball Club open play

• 6:30 p.m.: Poker (Chip up for Charity) at the Station Pub. Butter hosts poker night for a $20 buy-in.

• 6 p.m. - 8 p.m.: Dynamic Intuitive Archery Speed Shooting. Come try your hand at Archery at the Brisco Community Centre. Call Doug at 250-347-9048 to register..

Tuesday, April 11

• 9 a.m.: StrongStart/CAP-C at Edgewater Elementary. Tuesdays and Thursdays, 9 - 11:30 am Join this free, drop-in program for children ages 0 to 5 and their caregivers.

• 10 a.m.: Parent & Tot Connect at Frater Landing. Parents and their young children (ages 0-6) are invited to this FREE drop-in program!

• 10 a.m.-noon: Pickleball Club drop-in play.

• 10:30 a.m.: Homeschool Meetup at the Invermere Public Library. All homeschool families welcome to join.

• 10:30 a.m.: Senior's Fitness Columbia Valley Centre on Tuesdays, $2 drop-in.

• 1 p.m.: Artists' Gathering at the Radium Public Library, a weekly get-together for budding artists of all forms and skill levels! Bring your own supplies.

• 3 p.m.: FREE Youth Drop-In Fun at Summit Youth Centre Hub. For grades 7-12, come hang out and enjoy some great times with your friends. FREE fun!

• 6:30-8 p.m.: Tomato Workshop Series (part 2 or 4) at the Groundswell Community Greenhouse. Sign up ahead of time on their website

• 7 p.m.: 19+ Games Night Ullr Bar, $5/card. Prizes and giveaways weekly.

Wednesday, April 12

• 9 a.m. - 11 a.m.: StrongStart Canal Flats. Join this free, drop-in program for kids 0-5 and their caregivers. Songs, stories, play centers, crafts, snacks, and more!

• 9:15 a.m. -11:45 a.m.: StrongStart Every Monday & Friday Every 1st & 3rd Wednesday

• 10 a.m.: Parent & Tot Connect Canal Flats Village O ce. Parents kids (ages 0-6) are invited to this FREE drop-in program!

• 10 a.m. - 11 a.m.: Senior's Yoga at the Columbia Valley Centre on Mondays & Wednesdays, $2 drop-in.

• 12:30 p.m.: Telling our life stories: Free memoir workshop at the CBAL o ce (weekly until the end of April).

• 3 p.m.: Youth Drop-In at The Edge. Edgewater youth grades 4-8 can drop-in with the Summit Youth Hub at The Edge 3-8 p.m.

• 4 p.m. - 9 p.m.: Wednesday Dinners. Join us for dinner at the Legion. Members and guests welcome! Members enjoy a 10% discount!

• 6:30 p.m. Meat Draw and 50/50 at the Invermere Legion. Members and guests welcome.

• 7 p.m.: Trivia Night at the Station Pub in Invermere! $5/player Max. 6 players per team.

• 8 p.m.: Live Music: James Rose & Friends Ullr Bar. Every Wednesday at ULLR BAR

Wings over the Rockies Nature Festival May 8 -14, 20

TICKETS REQUIRED FOR EVENTS

Online ticket sales only. O utdoor events require a completed waiver. A link to the waiver form is on the Wings website and will be sent in the ticket purchase confirmation email.

Refund Polic y: Please visit the Wings website and click on O ur Festival tab.

2 - 4 - Outdoor Workshop - Embodied Nature: A movement prac tice with Nature and Natalie Forrest, Wilmer area

Outdoo

- 5 - Walk - A Tale of Two StreamsSinclair and Swede Creek with Shelley Humphries Radium Hot Springs area 2 - 4 - Walk - Beavers and Landsc ape Ecology: Co - existence with Captivating Critters with Annette Luttermann – Invermere area 2 - 3:30 - Indoo potter y b Potter y 2 - 4 - W A true an Luiz 2 - 5 - Walk - Forest Meditation Experience with Pat Bavin Radium Hot Springs area 4:30 - 6 – Chirp & Chat Host Loc ation: The Station Pub Invermere 2 - 4 - Walk - Corridors: Exploring wildlife corridors and signific ance with Steph LaCoppola and Jenna Schulhof - Wildsight, Brisco area ADVENTURE GENERAL NATURE BIRD PADDLE HISTORY 2 - 4 - Walk - Ecosystems at Redstreak with Rick Kubian Radium Hot Springs area 2 - 4 - Walk - Flower Power with Andrea Petzold Radium Hot Springs area 4:30 - 6 - Outdoor Event - Tour, sc avenger hunt and hot dog roast at Serenity Farm Windermere 4:30 - 6 - Outdoor Event - Tour, sc avenger hunt and hot dog roast at Serenity Farm Windermere 4:30 - 6 – Chirp & Chat Host Loc ation: Rocky River Grill Invermere 4: Host Loc 3:30 - 8 - Pad Columbia River Columbia River Purchase tickets online star ting April 11th, 10 AM MDT Go to: w w w.wingsover therockies.org Ticket Inquiries wingsover therockiesreg@gmail.com General Inquiries wingsover therockies@gmail.com M o r n i n g L u n c h A f t e r n o o n E v e n i n g Key Wings Nature Festival • Pynelogs Cultural Centre • 1720 - 4th Ave • Invermere • BC • Phone: Loc al: 250-342-2473 · Toll Free: 1-855-342-2473 • w w w WingsOverTheRockies org 2 - 4:30 - Adventure - Explore and Soar with Valley Zipline Adventures Radium Hot Springs 2 - 5 - Hik 8:30 - 11:30 - Walk - Birdwatching in Brisco with Greg Scott, Sherr y Dewey and John Pitcher Brisco area 2 - 5 - Walk - I Look Up, She looks Down with Don Delaney and K athleen Mpulubusi Wilmer area 2 - 5 - Walk - Forest Meditation Experience with Pat Bavin Radium Hot Springs area

The District of Invermere has contracted Mackay Contracting Ltd (Cranbrook) to construct a new municipal sanitary sewer syphon line to help address capacity issues in the existing sanitary sewer system The new sanitary sewer syphon line will be installed by directional drilling from 13th Avenue (between 5th Street and 2nd Street) down the embankment to connect with the wastewater treatment plant located on Industrial 2 Road

The project will also involve removing approximately 450 meters of paved road surface, followed by excavation, and replacement of sanitary sewer pipes, and connection with the existing residential sewer system Mackay Contracting will notify residents in advance of potential service interruptions

It will be necessary at times to close sections or lanes of 13th Avenue and Industrial 2 Road to vehicle and pedestrian traffic to maintain safe conditions, as well as protect the public and workers at the job site In addition, driveway access to some properties will be unavailable at times When required, traffic will be diverted to other roads

Please pay careful attention to directional signage / reader boards near the project site; those directions will be updated regularly The District of Invermere and Mackay Contracting apologize in advance for any traffic delays and disruptions this important work may impose on the public

If you have any questions or concerns about the project, please contact the District of Invermere by phone 250-342-9281 or by email info@invermere net

The case in favor for our local lands

Contributed by Wildsight

e pandemic highlighted the many benefits of getting outside regularly and connecting with nature.

e Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada underlined the need for us to deepen our understanding and knowledge of local Indigenous history, culture, language and land.

e UN e Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change recently shared that “Education on climate change adaptation should be a lifelong learning process that equips learners with the needed practical knowledge, skills, values, and attitudes to live in the new climate realities as well as socio-emotional resilience to face possible climate anxiety”.

rough environmental education, non-profit organizations such as the Columbia Basin Environmental Education Network (CBEEN), Wildsight and dozens of other local groups work tirelessly

to address all of these critical pieces, and more. is work supports the sustainability and resilience of our local communities, land, homes and planet. And the people of our region have responded by engaging in these programs and initiatives in record numbers.

Columbia Basin Trust has until recently said that “residents of all ages deserve opportunities to learn about the region they live in and be inspired to take care of it”. However, their current plan is to withdraw all support from all of these programs, initiatives and organizations as they have said that they have heard this is no longer a priority in this region.

If you think environmental education is still a priority we encourage you to have your voice heard at the upcoming community engagement sessions that Columbia Basin Trust has planned for your community, as well as through their online survey: https://future.ourtrust.org

CVRPI Advisory Committee member submissions for the Forster Landscape Unit

The Columbia Valley Recreation Planning Initiative (CVRPI) formerly CVRAMP, is asking for submissions of interest for new Advisory Committee (AC) members as they gear up to create a recreation plan recommendation for the Forster Landscape Unit. The AC is created from those with an interest, recreational or otherwise, in the area under consideration. AC members will provide detailed local knowledge of current use and its impacts to the CVRPI Planning Committee to assist them in producing a document of recommendations for consideration by provincial and first nation gover nments.

The CVRPI was formed as a result of a shared vision among diverse local recreational user groups, stewardship groups, local and provincial gover nment, and local First Nations to recommend resolutions for recreation management issues and support responsible and sustainable recreation on public land in the Columbia Valley

If you are interested in being a part of the advisory committee for the Forster area or would like to know more about the process, you can email info@ columbiavalleyrecreation.ca

Please submit by April 10, 2023

Andrew Young, MCIP, RPP Director of Public Works Operations Chief Administrative Officer columbiavalleyrecreation.ca

Angela MacLean, P Eng

Hospice is aboutLiving

HOSPICE SOCIETY OF THE COLUMBIA VALLEY NEEDS YOUR HELP!

OPlease Make A Difference By Supporting Our Yearly Hospice Campaign

fo S su

o Th u Y

The Hospice Society of the Columbia Valley is launching an Annual Sponsorship Campaign. The Society was ounded ten years ago and has grown to offer a wide variety of support programs and outreach. ustainable funding is key to the Hospice’s ability to provide free essential community ser vices over the long term. This Annual Sponsorship Campaign is a great opportunity for businesses and major donors in our communities to upport the much-needed presence of the Hospice in the Columbia Valley YOU can help by choosing one of our sponsorship opportunities below

CORPORATE SPONSORSHIP (GOLD PACKAGE)

• Cost $5000 yearly (tax receipt provided immediately after payment)

• 4 tickets to any Hospice event and recognition as a main sponsor

• Front and center coverage on our website

• Links to your business on our website

• Mentions on our social media platforms weekly (52 in total)

SILVER SPONSORSHIP PACKAGE

• Cost $1000 yearly (tax receipt provided immediately after payment)

• 2 tickets to attend any Hospice event

• Coverage on website

• Mentions on our social media platforms (13 times in total throughout year)

PL ATINUM SPONSORSHIP PACKAGE

• Cost $2500 yearly (tax receipt provided immediately after payment)

• 4 tickets to attend any Hospice event

• Coverage on our website

• Links to your business on our website

• Mentions on our social media bi-weekly (26 in total throughout year)

• A recognition and thank you in local paper - for September long weekend

BRONZE SPONSORSHIP PACKAGE

• Cost $500 yearly (tax receipt provided Immediately alter payment)

• 2 tickets to attend any Hospice event

• Coverage on website

• Mention on social media platforms (7 times in total throughout year)

ANY and ALL D ONATIONS under $500 are TRULY APPRECIATED and VERY MUCH NEEDED. NO AMOUNT IS TO O SMALL. All of our sponsors are so important and ver y dear to our hearts We cannot continue to provide our ser vices without the communities’ support

Although the Hospice Society of the Columbia Valley provides ser vices that are an integral part of the health care system, it receives only limited provincial and municipal government funding The Society relies on community members and the business community for most of its funding

In addition, the Society organizes fundraising events, which the community enthusiastically supports

The Hospice Society is managed by an executive director and a small paid staff The board of directors is comprised of representatives of several of the communities in the Hospice’s ser vice area, which covers Canal Flats, Fairmont Hot Springs, Windermere, Invermere, Wilmer, Radium Hot Springs, Edgewater, Brisco, Spillimacheen and the surrounding rural areas

The Society has established ties with the Secwepemc (Shuswap) and Ktunaxa (Akisq’nuk) First Nations and the Métis Peoples in the area and provides support when requested

Trained volunteers accompany people reaching the end of their lives in their homes or institutional settings to help ensure they continue to have the highest quality of life possible and have a chance to share their life stor y Volunteers can also keep vigil during the last hours of a person ’ s life Walking with those who have lost loved ones is equally important. Volunteers help people work through their grief through one-on-one visits or support groups

Special programs have been set up for children and youth A qualified clinical counsellor is available for people who are struggling with complicated or

traumatic grief In addition, anticipator y grief programs are available to people who are anticipating the death of a loved one to help them navigate the end-of-life journey

A new program, Nav-CARE, part of a national network, was added recently This program helps adults of all ages living with chronic or life-limiting illness not only by providing consistent emotional support but also by connecting them with the community ser vices and resources they need to live a full life

Dying is a natural part of life, just as birth is Birth has its uncertainties, challenges, pain but also joy Death is the end of a life’s journey with its own uncertainties, challenges, pain but ultimately peace

That companioning support is woven into the ver y fabric of our caring community The funding received is managed ethically, effectively, and professionally The staff and volunteers are passionate about the work they do There are so many ways to give to the Hospice Society of the Columbia Valley either through Regular Donations, Monthly Pledges, Endowment Fund or Legacy Giving No amount is too small

For more information about the campaign or to speak to someone please call 778-526-5143, 250-688-1143 or go to www hospicesocietycv com

THANK YOU FOR SUPPORTING HOSPICE SOCIETY OF THE COLUMBIA VALLEY

U S T C A L L R Y A N

Exterior Cleaning

Swiss skier Fanny Smith took gold in the ski cross on Mar. 17. Hoffos’ teammates also did well in that race, with Canadian Marielle ompson getting bronze, and Canadian Hannah Schmidt coming in fourth. Canada’s Reece Howden got gold in the men’s ski cross race on Mar. 17. e Mar. 18 women’s race was won by France’s Marielle Berger Sabbatel, but two Canadians once again rounded out the podium, with Marielle ompson second and Brittany Phelan third. In the men’s Mar. 18 race, Canadian Brady Leman won gold.

e imbalance between skill, effort and results evaporated on St. Patrick’s Day.

“It was awesome,” she said. “I’m where I feel I should be.”

Hoffos burst onto the World Cup ski cross scene with a Rookie-of-the-Year performance in the 2019-2020 season, earning three World Cup medals that first year and making the semifinal heats of almost every competition. She followed up with more strong results in 2020-2021 and rose to the sixth ranked women’s ski cross racer in the world.

NOTICE TO CREDITORS, HEIRS, AND OTHER CL AIMANTS

In the Matter of the Indian Ac t, R.S.C. 1985 c 1-5 as amended, and in the matter of the Estate of

JAMES NICHOLAS WHITE

No. 078, 01 Akisq’nuk First Nation in the Province of British Columbia, DECEASED

Notice is hereby given pursuant to sec tion 8 of the Indian Estates Regulations that all creditors, heirs and other claimants having claims or demands against the Estate of the said

JAMES NICHOLAS WHITE who died on or about FEBRUARY 17,2023, are required to send by post prepaid or to deliver on or before MAY 15, 2023 to:

CHRISTAL WHITE PO BOX 1887

FORT ST. JAMES, BC V0J lP0

their names and addresses, full par ticulars of their claims, statement of their accounts, and the nature of the securities (if any) held by them

And take notice that after such last mentioned date the Administrator will proceed to distribute the assets of the deceased among the par ties entitled thereto, having regard only to claims filed before that date or which the Minister orders may be later received, and that the said Administrator will not be liable for the said assets or any par t thereof to any person or persons of whose claims notice was not filed by that date unless the Minister orders it may be later received

Dated at For t St James, British Columbia, on MARCH 10, 2023

Administrator /Executor, CHRISTAL WHITE

en the dip came. Hoffos slipped to a ranking of 10th overall during the 2021-2022 season, largely as a result of competing in the 2022 Olympic Games held in Beijing. She also lost some of her season to a Covid infection.

In ski cross, 16 racers qualify for any given World Cup race. ey compete in heats of four, racing together down a course of jumps, berms and technical features.

e first two racers in each heat move on to the next round, “knockout style.” e top two skiers in each of the two semifinal heats qualify for the ‘big final’ to race for 1st through 4th place. e ‘small final’ for 5th through 8th place, is made up of the four ‘losing’ semfinalists. rough this World Cup season Hoffos has only managed to reach only a few small finals, and one big final, in which she came fourth. A few times she was eliminated in the first round of a race. But she believes she has the potential to regularly bag top-five finishes (either

winning the small final or getting into the big final). is season she’s also ranked 10th overall, and said that troublingly, she can’t seem to figure out why she’s not doing better.

“It been difficult. It does make you feel you are trending in the wrong direction,” she said.

e silver medal boosted Hoffos’ confidence and was made all the sweeter by success across both the Canadian men’s and women’s team in Craigleith. Canada earned the Ski Cross Nations Cup as the best overall country during the World Cup season.

at “created some good momentum. All of us (Canadians) were really fired up. at certainly helped me,” said Hoffos.

Craigleith, which has a vertical drop of just 211 metres, was hosting a World Cup ski cross for the first time ever, which generated plenty of buzz and drew big crowds.

“ e fans were were so excited,” she said. “We signed what felt like a million autographs for kids.

Hoffos had a crew of nine supporters travel from the Columbia Valley and Calgary to Craigleith to cheer her on.

When her family and fans noticed that Hoffos was in second place coming in to the end they hoped she stayed on her feet and none would squeak past.

“It’s one of those sports that things can change very quickly,” said Jenny Hoffos, Courtney’s mom.

Hoffos stayed out east after the World Cup season ended, competing in some NorAm (North America) circuit ski cross races at Craigleith, then headed to North Bay, Ontario with some of her Canadian teammates to run the Live Like Miki ski cross race, held in honour of former Canadian ski cross racer Mikayla Martin who died in a mountain bike accident in 2019. e event doubles as a sort of camp for aspiring young ski cross athletes, said Hoffos.

“It was great, the kids had a ton of fun,” she said. Proceeds from the event went to the charitable Mikayla Martin Memorial Fund.

It’s a late addition to the budget mostly because it came to the attention of the district only a week at the last minute, Invermere planner Rory Hromadnik told the Pioneer. e habitat is the large pile of soil on the south side of the gravel road that leads to the Athalmer boat launch.

e district inherited the Lake Windermere Resort Lands in 2019 for $5 million, following a referendum in favour of doing so, and plans to turn much of the area into public parks and other green space. Golden-based wildlife biologist Rachel Darvill discovered that about a dozen bank swallow had burrowed nests into a sandy face on the pile. e project involves preserving about a third of the pile as habitat (the remaining two thirds will be used to help create the park the area will become), putting up barriers to keep people away from the nesting sites, and adding some interpretive signs.

“Anything we can do to make things more environmentally responsible there, we should,” said Hromadnik. e budget will come back before council for adoption at its Tuesday, Apr. 11 meeting.

“ e ground is already ready to burn,” she said. In a few more weeks, when the grass is drier “a spark could light the whole town on fire.”

Any fire spreading up from track through grassland would quickly reach timber, said Hale.

Harmsworth has lived in Invermere for more than 55 years, and recalled that decades ago, a rail speeder used to trail trains as they passed near and through the community, in part to watch for any sparks. A rail speeder is a very small rail car once used to move inspectors and workers along the tracks. Harmsworth suggested this is no longer done because the sheer number of trains these days makes it impractical.

Sparks from trains and other rail activity have caused wildfires in the past, in Canada and elsewhere around the world. Canadian National Railway (CN Rail) had to pay $16 million in damages after an investigation determined rail workers cutting a line sparked the 2015 Cisco Road fire, which burned for months south of Lytton, B.C.

A 2021 wildfire that destroyed most of Lytton and killed two people was blamed by some Lytton residents on a passing train. A Transportation Safety Board investigation found no evidence to conclude the fire was caused by CN Rail activities. But two residents later filed a class action lawsuit alleging a CN Rail train did indeed cause the blaze.

Based

. . . ‘Council tweaks’ from 3

. . . ‘Burn mark’ from 4

vice in the Columbia Valley might get together and reach a collective agreement on what works here and then perhaps agree to a standard surcharge. So people understand the difference between the cost of the food and the cost of new packaging.

With the federal regulation more than eight months away, the District of Invermere has staff looking at a single-use-plastic ban of their own. ere is no guarantee that the federal government will implement the regulations, said Invermere CFO

e Single Use Plastics Prohibition and Regulations (SUPPR) ban the use of “single use plastic” in food service just before Christmas.

Invermere mayor Al Miller last week said he thought the pursuit of a local ordinance, that the district is investigating, is justified and in keeping with the municipality’s focus on environment. Invermere is considering a single use plastic ordinance of their own. Miller said that though the federal ban is clear and covers what Invermere might seek to regulate, there is no guarantee the SUPPR will be enacted.

At Spice Hut scores of styrofoam containers and plastic bags were once used daily to support their takeaway. Now, they’re putting out paper straws and much of the food is going out the door in paper containers, said Spice Hut manager Rashveer Sidhu.

For the most part, the reality of align-

ing with the single use plastic ban is not as hard as expected for the owner of Valley Foods in Invermere. Sydney-Anne Porter said her offerings are sold in whatever her suppliers have available at the moment. She intends to rely on suppliers to make sure that Valley Foods’ takeaway counter is in line with federal or local regulation, whichever has governance over single use plastic at the given time.

ere is a mix of new style and soonto-be banned materials in the prepared food section. Not all food does well in cardboard or fibre that restaurants use, Porter said. Prepared food will often sit in packaging in the warm food shelf for a time before the customer gets it. So, for now, single prepared meals of lamb or butter chicken will still be sold in clear plastic topper. e base has changed, she said.

Prepared food has become a large part of the grocery business across Canada. However, takeaway at Valley Foods is more of a service to singles and seniors that live in town, she said. It’s not a huge part of the over all business, but it’s important for some in the community, she said.

“ is is how people eat,” Porter said.

As the growing take out industry moves into the biodegradable containers, industry suppliers are looking wide to support food service with fibre based products. An American Chemical Society paper published on March 28 says that certain food wrappers in use in Canada,

including fibre bowls, are laced with forever chemicals ( polyfluoroalkyl substances, or PFAS) in the waterproof coatings and the finer binding agents.

e study looked at the transfer of the chemicals from packaging into the food.

e society urges caution and awareness saying that the use of PFAS-infused fibre based food containers begin to take over as the norm a different toxic problem could develop.

“ e total use ban expected in December will likely lead to greater use of plant fibre-based food packaging alternatives, to which PFAS may be added to achieve grease- and water-repellency. If so, this would represent a regrettable substitution of trading one harmful option for another.”

Restaurants Canada said usable plastic alternatives remain on the market that will not be subject to the ban in December. But those will be subject to some testing to determine if the item is “single use” as defined by the government.

Shoemaker said he doesn’t see it working well for folks bringing in reusables or containers from home to pick up a ursday-night sushi order. As with most restaurants, but in particular sushi, there is a food contamination issue.

“It’s just not a feasible exchange,” he said.

3x2 Dorian

Photo: Greg Skinner

Single use plastic containers present Fabuki Sushi for takeaway at Valley Foods in Invermere. Coming federal regulations will likely ban much of the material.

P IONEER C

ANNOUNCEMENT

FRANCIS GODFREY FERGUSON

April 17, 1935 – March 8, 2023

Francis Godfrey Ferguson of Kamloops passed away on March 8, 2023 with his family at his side He is survived by his beloved wife Deanna and their children Judy (Len) Dunn of Kamloops, Laurie Ferguson of Slave Lake, AB, Joyce Ribalkin of Kamloops, Mike (Cindy) Ferguson of Castlegar; grandchildren Tyler (Amber) Dunn, Katie (Steve) Prior, Aaron (Melissa) Dunn, Chelsey Boissonneault, Patrick (Kris) Surrette, Charlotte Ribalkin, Kyle Ferguson, Conal Ferguson, Tyrane Ferguson and great grandchildren Braxton, Avery and Paige Prior, Casey and Emily Dunn.

He was predeceased by his parents Harold and Lottie Ferguson, brother and sister-in-law Lewis and Frankie Ferguson, son-in-law Bill Ribalkin and grandson Lonnie Ferguson.

Francis was born on April 17th, 1935 in High Prairie, Alberta where his spent most of his childhood only living briefly in the Yukon with his family after the war As a teenager he excelled in hockey baseball and curling and loved to spent time in the outdoors hunting and fishing with his brother, Lewis and their friends Francis left High Prairie for Whitehorse, Yukon to find work in 1953. In 1955, he packed his car and headed south and joined his mum dad and sisters in Edgewater BC

In October of 1955 Francis met a clown at the Halloween Masquerade who changed his life! That night he met Deanna, it was a relationship that started out with a strength and brightness that was sustained throughout their marriage They were married in February of 1957 and called a tiny trailer in Moyie home While in Edgewater Francis worked for Spike’s Sawmill, Wilder Brothers Mill, Kirk’s Christmas Trees, Government Survey in Kootenay Park and finally for Dawson Construction. It was the work for Dawson that would take Francis, Deanna and their new family to Moyie, Castlegar, Golden, Donald, Kootenay Park and finally back to Edgewater Along the way they welcomed Judy, Laurie, Joyce and Michael

In 1964, they pulled up stakes, packed their trailer and made the big move to Kamloops where Francis worked for Patek Mill and Logging Supplies as a mechanic and then a shop manager

In 1969 Francis and Deanna opened F G Ferguson Equipment on West Victoria Street in Kamloops – it was a nothing ventured, nothing gained moment! Here Francis started out as the lone mechanic, parts and salesperson for small engines, lawn and garden equipment, chainsaws and snowmobiles and Deanna began her career as a bookkeeper and “Girl Friday”! It was risk worth taking and very soon the business expanded to the current location on Seymour Street Francis was an extremely hard worker always ensuring that his customers had the best service possible He was very proud that their youngest son, Michael worked at the shop for many years and was grateful for the support of his staff members While this was happening, he was busy with the kids on the ball fields in summer and, in the winter, you would find them all in the arenas In the early 1970s they purchased a tiny cabin on Dominic Lake Francis loved teaching his children and grandchildren how to fish, chop wood and enjoy the outdoors –they all have wonderful memories of the time spent at the lake with Grandad. Among the many community endeavours that Francis was involved in, he was most proud of being President of the Kamloops Snowmobile Association and the money KSA raised for the Children’s Hospital through Snowarama

In 1982, Francis and Deanna moved to their beautiful log home on the South Thompson River – it was a great place for family and friends to gather to enjoy the gardens, orchard and massive lawn that Francis took so much pleasure in caring for Francis and Deanna sold Ferguson Equipment in the spring of 1990 and enjoyed retirement on the river until 2000. Then they moved to Rose Hill and had many caring neighbours Francis and Deanna loved to travel and had many trips to places afar but they also never missed an opportunity to reconnect with family and friends They loved to go back home to High Prairie and Edgewater to catch up with those who made these places so special Deanna has been in care at Brocklehurst Gemstone since the fall of 2014 when her Alzheimer ’s progressed to where she was not able to be at home and Francis moved to Mayfair to be close to her He spent all of his time with her, walking over early in the morning and staying with her until the evening. His love and devotion never lessened as he continued to care for her even after joining her at Gemstone in 2018 due to Parkinson’s disease COVID lock down was a very difficult time as he and Deanna were cut off from family except for Facetime visits He was so thankful when family could finally come in to visit

Francis continued his love of sports throughout his life and always enjoyed a game of catch until the last few days of his life He followed the Canucks Blue Jays and enjoyed watching curling! He was a huge Kamloops Blazer ’s fan - a community shareholder and an original season ticket holder He attended games even as it became physically difficult Francis and his family spent his last evening watching the Kamloops Blazers and Vancouver Canucks win their games – an most fitting send off!

The family would like to thank the staff and residents of both Mayfair and Gemstone who gave kindness and support to Francis over the past nine years A very special thanks to Stephanie and Maddi for their smiles care and the joy they brought to Francis each week as they helped him to cope with his physical ailments – they brought a sparkle to his eye each time they visited.

Donations can be made to the Alzheimer ’s Association in Francis’s name

A celebration of life will be held a later date

Condolences may be expressed to the family at kamloops@cypressfuneral.ca

Mann, Alana Patricia

July 10, 1947 – March 17, 2023

In Loving Memory

L g M

It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Alana Mann, a long-time resident of Invermere, at the age of 75. Alana was born in Trail, BC, where she grew up on the East Trail Dairy farm She spoke fondly of memories from her early years riding her mare, Sandy, in the hills around the family farm near what is now known as Miral Heights and Shavers Bench.

After graduating from high school, she left Trail to work in Vancouver and get a taste of the big city Alana then moved back to the West Kootenay area where she became a secretary working for BC Tel During her career at BC Tel, she met and fell in love with Robin Mann, her future husband and life partner of 49 years They were married in 1970 and moved to Invermere where they built a bustling hobby farm and raised two children. Alana enjoyed sharing her time with Robin, flying, camping and fishing. In the late 1980’s Alana and Robin moved up to the Toby Benches where they enjoyed the peace of being surrounded by nature She continued her passion of raising animals, including rabbits, chickens, miniature horses, and many family pets She had great compassion for all animals; large and small Alana and Robin laboured to turn their homestead into a serene retirement location where she enjoyed the beauty of wildlife and flowers Alana was predeceased by her parents Ann and William Beetstra, and her husband Robin. She will be lovingly remembered by her son Richard (Elizabeth), daughter Michelle (Clint), brother William, grandchildren Jerome, Anthony, Kevin, and Elijah, as well as numerous nieces and nephews

A special thanks to all those in the Columbia Valley who helped Alana in her later years There will be no service at her request

Sherry Huether

June 5, 1962 – March 22, 2023

1962 – M h 2023

Sherry Huether lost her battle with cancer on March 22nd, 2023 surrounded by loved ones She will be remembered for her caring nature, unwavering positivity and putting everyone’s feelings or needs before her own. She is survived by her husband Duane, sons Rory and Coby, daughters in-law Malory and Britney, and grandsons Alden and Chase She will be sorely missed, as she touched so many people’s hearts and was a mother and friend to many

Open to Tender

Columbia Valley Arts is currently seeking proposals for Food Service based out of the historical Pynelogs Cultural Centre, at Kinsmen Beach Opportunity is available for mobile units/foodtrucks/pop ups also Beachside setting, large patio overlooking the lake and surrounding greenspace Includes kitchen space and furniture, storage space Additional opportunities for year round operations, catering and special events in collaboration with Columbia Valley Arts

Application package is available by email info@columbiavalleyarts com

250 342 4423, tues-sat 11am-4pm

Application closes April 22nd 2023

Mission

Under direct super vision of the SR Utility Operator, the proposed Utility Operator will use their wealth of knowledge from the water & wastewater industr y to help efficiently deliver these ser vices at optimal capacity The incumbent will complete daily operations and maintenance of the systems while helping to mitigate risks and plan for future expansion This rotation may include regular weekend work with your days off during the week

Who Are You?

You have significant experience working in utility operations and/or a relevant red seal trades certificate

You are a proven hard worker with ample room for improvement and growth You chase excellence in ever y aspect of life and work is no exception

You exhibit confidence, versatility and navigate challenges with positivity and apply innovative solutions with your team

You’re a methodical thinker and analyze the outcome of ever y situation By planning, prioritizing, and executing you manage your time efficiently and accomplish tasks accordingly

You are a team player that is a coachable and actively participates in progressive discussions towards a common goal

What Will You Do?

You will analyze and track system data while performing routine maintenance and periodic repairs to the system

You will be part of a passionate team that looks to deliver the best possible utilities, safely and efficiently to its members and customers

Participate and provide feedback on system operations and maintenance

Key Responsibilities

• Perform routine maintenance programs

• Troubleshoot and anticipate system issues

• Respond to emergency situations (On-call, Nights/Weekends/ Holidays)

• Conduct assessments and condition reporting

• Analyze test results and instrument readings

• Collect and test water samples for chemical and bacterial content

• Collect waste and sewage samples, test and analyze results

• Complete and maintain plant logs and reports

• Maintain and repair installation equipment, help with the installation, the assembly, and repairs to equipment

• Monitor and inspect plant equipment and systems to detect equipment malfunctioning and to ensure plant systems are operating normally

• Operate and monitor computerized control systems and related equipment to regulate the treatment and distribution of water

• Operate and monitor computerized control systems and related equipment to regulate the flow of sewage and to treat and dispose of sewage and wastes

• Patrol plant to check pumps, motors, filters, chlorinators and other plant equipment

Qualifications and Terms

• EOCP certified Water / Wastewater operator level 1 or 2

• Any other EOCP courses would be beneficial (cross connection, treatment, stormwater)

• Relevant Red Seal Trades Certificate

• Basic computer skills in Microsoft Office, excel, HMI, SCADA and maintenance software

• Experience with pumps (submersible, positive displacement, centrifugal)

• Pipe laying / Pipe fitting experience

• Knowledge of electrical and instrumentation equipment

• Familiar with motors and compressors

• Confined Space, WHMIS, First Aid and other safety courses considered assets

• Able to provide a cleared RCMP Criminal Record Check

• Possess a Drivers License with a clean drivers abstract

• Must be able to work onsite, in Invermere, BC

Personal Attributes

• Excellent communication skills Proven ability to communicate clearly and professionally both orally and in writing

• Excellent organizational skills Proven ability to manage multiple tasks with consideration to timelines and directives

• Attention to detail Able to use critical thinking skills to be able to troubleshoot challenges and find solutions

• Understand general practice of maintaining confidentiality

• Collaborate effectively with community members, band staff and external partners

• Understanding of the Shuswap Band community, culture, and Secwepemc values

• Team player You understand your role in a team and can make those around you grow to their full potential You delegate properly and help your team improve by putting them in positions to succeed

This is a full-time, year-round position.

Regular work week: Must be able to work weekends – days off ar flexible but must be during the week Ie Wednesday to Sunday 8-4 30 or Thursday to Monday 8-4 30 (30 minutes unpaid lunch)

The ideal start date is June 1st 2023

We offer a wide variety of perks including:

• Employer matched pension plan after 3 months

• Company Vehicle

• Extensive health and benefits package

• Bi-weekly healthy food box

• Dynamic work environment

How to Apply

We value diversity and welcome all qualified candidates to apply Employment and promotion of a qualified Indigenous person or Shuswap Band member will be administered in a fair and reasonable manner and is consistent with the Canadian Human Rights Commission Policy on “Aboriginal Employment Preference ”

If interested, please apply to sstump@shuswapband.ca. Only qualified candidates will be contacted.

AD Designer

The Columbia Valley Pioneer is looking for a full-time Ad Designer/Production

Person for our newspaper operation based in Invermere The Columbia Valley Pioneeer operates a weekly print publication, daily news site online, and various special projects The Ad Designer will work in conjunction with sales reps and the clients to produce creative, effective and engaging advertisements for both print and digital applications

If you are skilled at planning and illustrating concepts, creating a wide range of graphics and layouts, working collaboratively with a team to meet deadlines, we would love to hear from you

The successful candidate must work well in a team setting, but also be selfmotivated

Qualifications

• Diploma in graphic design or related field is an asset

• Demonstrate graphic design skills with a strong portfolio

• A strong eye for visual composition

• Effective time management skills and the ability to meet deadlines while juggling multiple priorities.

• Can do attitude and a sense of humour

• Proficient in Adobe InDesign, Photoshop and Illustrator

• Knowledge of newspaper dummy and producing press-ready files

Interested candidates should for ward their resume to:

Amanda Nason, A ssociate Publisher adver tising@columbiavalleypioneer.com

The company offers competitive benefit and pension plans. The position is based in our office at 1008, 8th Ave Invermere, B.C. The position is available immediately.

If you have what it takes to work with a great Landscape Maintenance team, we want you!

We’re expanding our team and looking for hard working people, whether you have years of experience or you’re new to the green industry

Our company embraces life outdoors, we appreciate the satisfaction of hard physical work, and we take pride in keeping our clients’ properties healthy and looking fantastic using an established system. You will be taught how to safely operate mowers, weed eaters, blowers, and other tools and equipment We want you to be part of a team that works in, and appreciates, the weather of the Columbia Valley We work on very hot days, very cold days, rainy days, and very beautiful days.

If you’re the best, you won’t ever have to worry about being paid above industry standards, our starting wage is $20/hr We also offer an extremely flexible benefits package for team members who stay with us year round. If this is the kind of challenge you are looking for, please email enquiries to:

info@brigadeltd.com

Grounds Cre w

Competitive wage and benefits. Start as soon as possible

Star ting rate based on experience. Oppor tunity for advancement,benefits and perks.

•

• Assist Store Management, and work as a team with staff

• Per form all duties within

•

•

•

Contact James Wilfley at 250-341-5403 or email: windermerevalleygolf@shaw.ca

Sunday,

Brisco author’s first work, an afterlife novella

By Steve Hubrecht steve@columbiavalleypioneer.com

A Brisco man has penned a religious allegory novella. Jim Spiers and his wife Pam are best known to Columbia Valley residents as the formers owners of the British-themed Piccadilly Motel in Radium, but having retired from that back in 2018, Spiers decided to take a stab at being an author.

“Everybody wants to write a novel and I’m one of those people,” he said.

Aside from no longer running a motel, Spiers’ motivation to finally make a serious effort at putting pen to paper got a considerable boost from being both immobilized (a case of vascular disease led to the amputation of his right leg) and isolated (he wrote the novella in 2021, during some of the worst of the COVID-19 pandemic).

He launched into his story three separate times, but each time became dejected enough to throw out all his work and begin again from scratch. The fourth attempt, however, proved fruitful, and over a period of seven months Spiers wrote what has now become ‘Old Dogs, Children, and Watermelon Wine’.

The book is what Spiers calls “speculative fiction” and tells the tale of a protagonist named Michael who leaves this world and is transported to a universe of many worlds. Michael passed between these realms finding perfect people all living their own version of perfect lives. But a deep darkness pervades this idyll and threatens Michael.

“It’s a fresh take on the afterlife...You can consider it a Christian allegory,” said Spiers, citing John Bunyan’s ‘The Pilgrim’s Progress’ as perhaps the most famous Christian allegorical novel. But Spiers, who is a member of the Lake Windermere Alliance Church in Invermere hastened to differentiate his book, saying “I’m sure some churches will have a hard time with it. The concepts that come into the story are somewhat unorthodox. They are not generally what people might associate with the afterlife.”

Old Dogs, Children, and Watermelon Wine’ clocks in at 150 pages and about 32,000 words. That’s long enough for Spiers. “I am a very slow writer. I wrote about 800 words a day, three days a week on average, but there were some days I only wrote 200 words,” he said. He

chalks his pace up to being a new writer, and said he enjoyed the process, but has no plans or ideas for a second book in the near future.

The book was published only earlier this winter. Spiers used a Manitoba-based self-publishing company to turn Old Dogs, Children, and Watermelon Wine from manuscript into hard copy book.

Jim and his wife Pam are originally from Worcestershire country in England, where they were farmers. In 1991 they relocated across the Atlantic to Manitoba, about an hour outside of Brandon, where they also were again farmers, growing fruit, vegetables and grain and raising livestock, including wild boars.

The couple realized that they needed to upscale their operation considerably just to make ends meet, so they opted instead to switch careers. They moved to Radium Hot Springs and bought what was then the Arrow Motel.

They want to re-brand the place, and “so we gave it a few English twists”, explained Spiers, and renamed it the Piccadilly Motel. Some of those twists — a bright red double decker bus and old red telephone booth (known in England as a ‘red kiosk’) stood out enough to become well-know local landmarks. The couple ran the Piccadilly until 2018, which Spiers said made them Radium’s longest serving innkeepers. In 2018 they retired to Brisco.

To find out more about the book visit www.olddogschildrenandwatermelonwine.ca or contact Spiers at piccadillyjim53@gmail.com.

LAKE WINDERMERE ALLIANCE CHURCH

Now open for in-person ser vices. Sundays at 10:30 a m 326 10th Avenue, Invermere 250-342-9535 • www.lwac.ca

W I N D E R M E R E V A L L E Y S H A R E D

M I N I S T R Y A N G L I C A N - U N I T E D

Minister: Brent Woodard

Sundays at 10:30 a.m. In-person or on zoom. For the zoom link, please visit our website ( Windermere Valley Shared Ministr y) 110 - 7th Ave in Invermere

V A L L E Y C H R I S T I A N A S S E M B L Y Sunday 10 a.m. Worship ser vice 4814 Highway Drive, Windermere 250-342-9511 • www.valleychristianonline.com

R O M A N C A T H O L I C C H U R C H St. Anthony’s, Canal Flats., Canadian Martyrs’ –Invermere, St Joseph’s – Radium

Canal Flats: Saturday, 4 p.m.

Canadian Martyrs, Invermere: Saturday 5 p.m., Sunday 9 a.m. St. Joseph, Radium: Sunday 11 a.m.

Father Jojo Augustine • 712 -12th Ave., Invermere 250-342-6167 S

Sunday 1:30 p.m Worship Ser vice at Valley Christian 4814 Highway Drive, Windermere lutheranstpeter@gmail.com

Sunday 10 a.m Worship service

Pastor Wayne and Linda Frater • 250-342-6633 No. 4, 7553 Main St. Radium • 250-347-9937

Worship Service, Sunday, 10 a.m Relief Society, 11:15 a.m

President Kendyn Mackensie • Columbia Valley Branch • 5014 Fair way, Fairmont Hot Springs 250-439-9041

CHURCH OF CHRIST (Iglesia ni Cristo)

Worship Ser vice: Sunday 9 a.m., Thursday 7:45 p.m. Chamber of Commerce (Lions Hall)

...NWAC cont from page 7.

over-incarceration, and economic disparity faced by Indigenous women, girls, and gender-diverse people in this country. Canadians are struggling with the cost of living, and it’s clear this is the top priority item in the budget. This struggle is something Indigenous people have been facing for many decades now, and the need for direct investment is dire,

says Ms. Groulx. This year’s budget doesn’t surprise us at all. Year after year, the budgets have been consistently disappointing. With words but no actions, this government continues to show Canadians that Indigenous women simply are not a priority. It’s 2023, two years since the National Action Plan was released, four years

since the National Inquiry into Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls issued its final report declaring an ongoing genocide. And the violence continues. When does the government say to Canadians that enough is enough? Certainly not in this budget.

— Native Women’s Association of Canada

The Hearing Loss Clinic has become an integral par t of my family’s healthcare team. As an athlete and coming into the medical field myself, I can appreciate how each aspect of our health contributes to the bigger picture. Hearing health is an impor tant par t of how we interact with the world, which correlates to so many other par ts of our humanity. It’s all connected. The Hearing Loss Clinic team really understands this and it shows in their passion for what they do and how they treat their patients, from the moment someone walks in the door to the final testing and fitting.

Dr. Hayley Wickenheiser, 4-time Olympic Gold Medalist Hockey Canada