Columbia Valley Pioneer May 11, 2023

Photo by Ryan Watmough

RAD seeks engagement on accessibility

By Steve Hubrecht steve@columbiavalleypioneer.com

Invermere accessibility advocate Tanelle Bolt is pressing ahead with efforts to improve accessibility at Kinsmen Beach and to set up an adaptive outdoor gear rental shop as soon as possible. As part of that, she is seeking input and support from Invermere residents.

Bolt is a founder of the nonprofit Recreation Adapted (RAD) Society, which strives to make outdoor recreation possible for people with limited mobility. In 2022 she asked Invermere council to improve access at Kinsmen Beach for those with mobility challenges, and this past winter she presented her ideas about renovating a 40-foot shipping container and turning it into an accessible, adaptive gear rental hub. She called the planned hub ‘the Gear Box’ and suggested that James Chabot Provincial Park would be a good spot for it.

An email from the District of Invermere to Bolt indicated there are many steps, such as public consultation and environmental assessments that must take place before either proposal can go ahead, but in the meantime Bolt is looking for community engagement on her plans, especially on improving Kinsmen Beach.

“We’d like to have a conversation. We want to hear what you, Invermere

resident, on what you would like to see, whether you’re a person who uses a wheelchair, a grandma who wants to be able to get a kayak in and out of the water with her small grandkids, or really anybody wishing it was easier to get in and out of the lake at Kinsmen Beach,” said Bolt.

She is hoping that, eventually, what she calls a ‘human boat launch’, which would essentially be a barrier-free paved pathway, will connect the Kinsmen Beach parking lot to the shore, allowing users to much more easily get into the water (or to the Whiteway in winter).

Bolt shared a recent email to RAD from Invermere Chief Administrative Officer Andrew Young, which outlines some of the challenges involved in creating the ‘human boat launch.’ Public consultation needs to happen first, wrote Young, and an environmental evaluation conducted. Once that is done, the district would need to apply for and receive permits from both Fisheries & Oceans Canada and the provincial Ministry of Environment.

“ e anticipated timeline to secure those permits from time of application to issuance is 18 months, minimum,” wrote Young, later adding “please be advised the District of Invermere has not budgeted to do any of this work in 2023. We believe that the work elements described above will be quite costly and risky since there is a strong likelihood that the senior govern-

Educators speak out on funding cuts by CBT

By Julia Magsombol Local Journalism Initiative julia@columbiavalleypioneer.com

Cutbacks in funding for environmental education programs in the Kootenay region has some educators questioning the move by Columbia Basin Trust (CBT).

“I was shocked. Really,” said Kalista Pruden when she first heard the news.

And Faye O’Neil, an Indigenous school district coordinator, felt the same way. “Are you joking? You’ve got to be kidding.”

As a result of the cuts, many environmental plans have already been discontinued. Many programs are also affected, especially those that Columbia Basin Environmental Education Network (CBEEN) holds. Upon learning the news, many residents were similarly displeased. For background information, visit https://www.columbiavalleypioneer. com/cbt-to-withdraw-funding-for-envi -

ronmental-education-programs/

“It seems like environmental education would be one of those that should be a priority and should be kept important,” Pruden said. “Seeing some of the funding cut for those is pretty disappointing.”

She explained that it was unfortunate timing because there’s so much opportunity for environmental programming throughout the summer – especially for children.

Pruden noted that Indigenous peoples in the basin have been the keepers of the land for a long time. ey have a close relationship with the land and with food systems. ose perspectives and knowledge are shared through environmental education. Pruden stressed that if the funding for environmental programs is taken away, “kids from all different backgrounds [won’t] have an opportunity to engage with Indigenous peoples in their local area.”

ment agencies may not issue the required permits.”

Bolt pointed to other recent municipal accessibility infrastructure projects in B.C., such as the wheelchair-accessible Ray Kandola Heritage Pier in Peachland, which three years ago won a BC Recreation and Parks Association (BCRPA) Parks Excellence Award.

ese examples show that municipal governments can in fact make their wa-

terfront accessible to those with mobility challenges, she said.

RAD already has $10,000 in grants or other funding for the Gear Box and has already secured a container. “But the container is not yet renovated. We need to sort out a location first, then we can focus on fixing up the container and connecting it to the surrounding infrastructure,” said Bolt.

Continued on page 7

Concept image of the Recreation Adapted (RAD) Society’s proposed Gear Box. Submitted

SECURITY SECURITY

RCMP Report

Corporal Jeff Witzke

Columbia Valley RCMP

is past week, May 1 to 7, the Columbia Valley RCMP responded to 65 calls for service. e following is a summary of some of the files our officers responded to:

invermere.bc.libraries.coop

The L ake vie w Manor Society

Annual G ener al Me eting

Tuesday, May 23rd at 7 p.m.

L ower meeting room of L akeview Manor. Questions? Call Al L arratt at 250-688-7656.

ANNUAL GENER AL MEETING

Tuesday, May 23, 2023

7 p.m. Lions Hall, Chamber of Commerce, 651 Hw y 93/95, Invermere

Nominations for or interest in a Board of Director position can be made by emailing summittrailmakers@gmail.com by Friday, May 19.

Following the formal meeting will be a presentation by Jenny Feick, subject: the Great Divide Trail.

On May 1 police received a complaint of a collision near the detachment on Athalmer Road. Witnesses observed a vehicle driving in an erratic manner before colliding with another vehicle. Members on scene suspected the driver was operating the vehicle while impaired and are recommending such charges to the Crown.

On May 3 a member of the Columbia Valley RCMP was on patrol in Invermere when they observed a vehicle make an abrupt turn once it saw the police vehicle. Subsequently the vehicle was pulled over in a parking lot. While the officer returned to his police vehicle to con-

duct checks, the vehicle sped off to the end of the parking lot where the driver fled on foot. Police Dog Services (PDS) was dispatched and was able to track the driver down where he was arrested without incident. Checks showed the vehicle was stolen out of Calgary and full of suspected stolen power tools. e driver, who provided a false name to the officer, was prohibited from driving and currently on a release order with several conditions. He was held in custody and taken before a judge to speak to all of the charges.

On May 5 members of the Columbia Valley RCMP conducted speed enforcement on Radium Hill, Hwy 93/95 where the speed limit has been reduced to 70 km/ hr and has been for approximately one year. People appear to be more aware of the speed limit on the hill as officers made 12 contacts in a two-hour period, which is a marked improvement since last spring/summer.

Lake Windermere Pulse Check

www.lakeambassadors.ca

Submitted by Lake Windermere Ambassadors, May 2, 2023

Average Water Temperature: 14.4°C

Average Water Depth: 3.04m

Average Turbidity: 2.55 NTU

Average D.O.: 10.05 mg/L

Average pH: 7.95

It was a beautiful and calm morning for our weekly sampling. With warm temperatures it feels like spring is finally in the air. However, we don't think it’s time to get the boats or swim trunks out yet as the lake is still low and cold.

A big thanks to Caily Craig at Columbia Lakes Stewardship Society for helping us take our samples this week. To join the Ambassadors on the boat on Tuesdays please email Jacob at intern@lakeambassadors.ca.

anks to our sponsors: Columbia Basin Trust, Totem Charitable Foundation, BC Gaming, District of Invermere, Regional District of East Kootenay, TD Friends of the Environment Foundation, Columbia Valley Community Foundation, Columbia Valley Local Conservation Foundation, and British Columbia Conservation Foundation.

Weekly Specials (Dine-in Only)

Sunday: Prime Rib Dinner

Monday: Burger & Draft Beer

Thursday - Saturday: Chefs Special

Local woman receives BC achievement awards

By Julia Magsombol Local Journalism Initiative julia@columbiavalleypioneer.com

A Columbia Valley resident has inspired others by winning a 2023 BC Achievement Community Award.

“The most exciting part about the award is learning about the other recipients and learning about the work that they do,” said winner Kat Hartwig from Brisco.

The Pioneer spoke with Hartwig, who is the founder and executive director of Living Lakes Canada — a nonprofit organization that promotes water stewardship for the health of watersheds in BC and other parts of Canada.

Most importantly, she supports the inclusion of Indigenous voices in water management. The work of Living Lakes Canada has a strong focus on Indigenous values – they work with many First Nations across BC and Canada.

Going back in time, she started her environmental journey when she was 18.

“I volunteered to clean up beaches,” Hartwig said. But her passion for taking care of the environment took off at the age of 29 with the East Kootenay Environmental Society. “I became the branch president [there],” Hartwig noted. “I worked then with Wildsight – working on endangered species like mountain car-

ibou, and other projects like having more ecotourism opportunities.”

Hartwig believes in strong working relationships with First Nations.

“We work very closely and are guided by our Indigenous partners, who have been here long before we have,” Hartwig said. “[They have] a lot of wisdom and insights as to what was culturally significant.”

She’s one of the board members of Global Nature Fund, the parent organization of Living Lakes International — a global network of organizations that share the mission to enhance, protect, restore and rehabilitate freshwater areas around the globe.

Hartwig is concerned about the water and water supply in communities. One program that Hartwig initiated is the Columbia Basin Water Monitoring Framework, which studies the impacts of climate change on lakes, streams, and groundwater because the quality and quantity of the water are starting to change.

“Some communities are concerned about that and are moving to groundwater for water supply,” said Hartwig. “We recently started the high elevation monitoring program, so we can understand what’s happening to lakes, streams and snowpack in the mountains.”

Continued on page 7

II

Swing ng Spring pring into

GOLF LESSONS

Wednesdays

3 sessions of 45 minutes

Nine holes of golf w/cart on June 7

Maximum six students per

Annual Mother’s Day Plant Sale

Saturday May 13th

Groundswell Community Greenhouse

Our annual mother’s day plant sale! All plants have been grown by our wonderful volunteers $2.50 to $8 each

All proceeds support your community greenhouse.

up to date about What’s Growing On at Groundswell on Facebook.

Like us at www.facebook.com/ Groundswell.Network

Groundswell Community Greenhouse

Mother's Day Brunch

Sunday, May 14

Minestrone, Charcuterie platter with chilled Seafood Assorted cheese and salads, fresh fruit platter, muffins/pastries

Live Omelet counter - Eggs Benedict

Get active for the Invermere Women’s Shelter!

Fairmont Hot Springs Resort is hosting it’s 1st Annual Mother’s Day Walk in support of Family Dynamix and we want YOU to attend!

Ages 6+ are welcome to participate in the walk and on-leash furry friends too!

Signed-up participants will receive a goody bag at check-in and be entered into a draw for prizes from local businesses.

Spinach and Mushroom Frittata

Pancakes Smoked Bacon/Sausage

Grilled Salmon, saffron Beurre Blanc

BBQ Pork ribs, Four Cheese Ravioli, Sundried Tomato Pesto Roasted Fingerling Potatoes Herb tossed Vegetables Carved Prime Rib, Yorkshire pudding

Chefs Variety of Desserts

11 and under $18

12 and up $55

Seniors $49

Brisco resident Kat Hartwig is the recipient of two 2023 BC Achievement awards. Photo submitted

We owe it to the victims

ere ought to be dents in our collective heads from banging them against the proverbial wall so many times after reading about the goings-on in our courtrooms.

People’s hues and cries continue to reverberate across Canada when talking about the justice system in terms of sentencing, some of which leaves much to be desired on the accountability front.

Recently, two BC women were sentenced to jail for protesting the Trans Mountain pipeline expansion. ey were reportedly playing badminton in dinosaur costumes while flouting a court injunction against blockades. Despite pleading guilty they were sentenced to more than 20 days in jail and ordered to pay fines.

Okay, they broke the law. But so did a BC man who also broke his girlfriend’s wrist during a violent altercation last year. His sentence – 18 months’ probation. No jail.

e court heard how the intoxicated man became enraged and attacked the woman, hitting her in the face twice. e prosecutor reported that when the victim got up, her boyfriend pushed her, causing her wrist to snap.

Before you pass judgment too quickly, there’s more. Another pair of protesters, including a hereditary chief, were sent to jail after they disrupted pipeline work in Mission Flats in 2020. ey too violated an injunction and broke the law, with the judge referring to the chief’s actions as serious, noting that probation was not strong enough to deter his behaviour.

But another BC man received a conditional discharge (house arrest) after beating his ex-wife in front of their child. e court heard how he punched her in the head, neck and shoulders during an argument. It was disclosed that he was convicted of assaulting a previous partner in 2011.

Some may argue that we’re comparing apples and oranges here without legal expertise, but something is seriously wrong when wife beaters get probation while protesters are sent to jail for trying to protect the land. How do we expect to turn the tide for victims of assault when there is little deterrence? Intimate partner violence is a growing concern in Canada, and until we treat it seriously it’s going to continue to dominate our court files.

We are not saying that violating court injunctions is not a serious offence, but beating up women is an atrocious crime which is often watered down with the ubiquitous defence of intoxification.

It sounds like a broken record, but we urge our politicians to press this issue. We really owe it to the countless women trapped in abusive relationships with nowhere to turn.

Lyonel Doherty, editor

Oh, how sweet the ladies are

My wife and I are new to the valley. Sort of. We really like it. My wife doesn’t like to bake. I like to eat baking. Random? Hold tight.

I always wanted to be a fireman. After a rewarding career elsewhere, I finally made it to the service, the fire service. e folks at the Radium Fire Department are quite awesome. e practices are relevant. We serve the public emphatically. It’s all good.

But the reason I go to practice once a week has less to do with all of the above. At practice number one, a plate of Nanaimo bars sat at the back of the room. Not shy, I helped myself. Nice touch, I thought. Next practice, cinnamon buns. Are you kidding me? Seeing a trend? Yup. Every practice, fresh baking. Last week,

apple pie. Come on!

e beautiful baked goodies are provided by a couple of lovely ladies whom I do not know. ey have baked for years for the fire department because, apparently, they wanted to contribute, but felt they couldn’t do the firefighter “physical stuff.”

I’m certain that this disclosure being made public will rub some local fire departments wrong. I just wanted our “friends in flour” to know that they are so, so appreciated. Your gesture is thoughtful, kind, and often warm.

I love this place. I love my wife. But I am leaving her. After supper every Monday for a couple hours.

Carey Collin, Radium Hot Springs

Public engagement sought

Continued from page 3

Young also addressed the issue of the location of the Gear Box in the email to RAD. He outlined that the District of Invermere does not own or control James Chabot Provincial Park, although it is working on an agreement with the provincial government to jointly manage the park along with the Shuswap Band. But that agreement is not in place yet, so the district doesn’t have the authority to allow the Gear Box at James Chabot.

“We are of the opinion that the proposed installation would not fit into Kinsmen Beach Park or even the parking lot,” wrote Young, adding that “we are also of the opinion that the proposed installation would not fit into the recently approved plans for the future development of (the Lake Windermere Resort lands).”

Young proposed two alternative sites: near the con-

crete wall of the Lakeview parking lot close to the accessible public washrooms, and near the western edge of the Pynelogs Rotary Ball Park parking lot.

“This location (by the Pynelogs Rotary Ball Park parking lot) provides good access to electrical hookups too. This site can be easily reached by vehicles, and is in a highly visible location which makes it easier to monitor and protect,” wrote Young.

Bolt feels there could be space at the Kinsmen parking lot beside the accessible parking space near the splash park.

She noted there are many hurdles standing in the way of creating a ‘human boat launch’ and getting the Gear Box set up, but is undeterred. “I’m optimistic,” she said. Anyone wanting to find out more can contact RAD at info@RADSociety.ca.

Educators unhappy with cuts

Continued from page 3

And if those things are taken away, Pruden asked: “What is there left? What else is there with our next generations that are coming up?”

O’Neil asked, “Why would you cut education for children? That just doesn’t make any sense to me.”

She believes that great knowledge for children comes from these environmental programs. She noted that most Indigenous peoples “are living from the rocks. Everything has a living entity. Once we disturb one, we’re disturbing the whole chain.”

O’Neil said once you cut environmental education, the children will endure its negative effects and will never be able to learn those things.

“Why are we not providing programs for our children… for the youth? They [need] to be aware of how to

take care of mother earth,” she said.

O’Neil believes that children are the future, so education is the only way for children to learn more about their ancestors and how the environment affects them.

“If we don’t take care of the environment, we don’t have a healthy ecosystem to sustain any of us,” O’Neil explained.

In terms of the future, she plans to write a letter to CBT regarding the funding and future of environmental programs.

“I haven’t written my letter to CBT yet, but I will be,” O’Neil said.

“From a true reconciliation perspective, it’s really important to ensure that those perspectives are shared,” Pruden said. “I hope that CBT finds a softer way to reduce their funding, with a little more support.”

Local woman receives BC achievement awards

Continued from page 5

Living Lakes Canada also started to monitor the drought situations and observe the groundwater in the basin. Much of the work embodies applied Reconciliation.

“This gives us the opportunity to heal our relationships with the first people of this country. It helps us to, hopefully, respectfully heal our relationships with the land and the water as well,” Hartwig explained.

In the end, she believes that “the Indigenous peoples in this country have perhaps more insight in terms of how to respect Mother Earth.”

The BC Achievement Foundation’s Community Award program recognizes extraordinary British Columbians who build better, stronger and more resilient communities. Hartwig is one of 20 recipients in 2023.

Foundation chair Walter Pela said it recognizes exceptional people doing exceptional work. “We are privileged to showcase and celebrate the contributions of

these outstanding recipients who shine as examples of leadership, dedication and selflessness,” he said.

Hartwig said humbly, “It was strange. I was excited to hear that when I just didn’t know about the award.”

The woman also received a second award: the Mitchell Award of Distinction.

The Mitchell Award “is a special award,” said Pela. “It was given this year to Hartwig for her championship of environmental conservation and her leadership style and selflessness in helping others and leading others to excel.”

When asked what her plans are now, Hartwig laughed and said, “I’d love to say I’m going to retire . . . but that’s never going to happen. I’m going to continue. I’ll continue working the way I do.”

Hartwig encourages people to be mindful of the present and “deal with what we can today. Just be grateful for the gift of life that we’ve been given.”

P.O. Box 340, 4836 Radium Blvd, Radium Hot Springs, B.C., 250-347-6455

Employment Opportunity: Seasonal Labourer

The Village of Radium Hot Springs is seeking a seasonal labourer (June to September). This wide spectrum position primarily supports the parks division maintaining and beautifying the community, but also performs a variety of tasks related to cleaning, maintenance, construction, and repairing all aspects of the Village’s public works infrastructure.

This is a seasonal, non-unionized position based on a 40 hour work week with the usual hours of work being 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., ve days per week. This position may involve working during weekends, evenings and holidays when on assigned standby duty or during unusual or emergent circumstances.

The job description, which includes the expected skills, education, and certi cations, may be viewed on the Village website: https://radiumhotsprings.ca/village-contact/careers/

Questions regarding the position may be directed to Justin Nielsen, Public Works Foreman, at justin.nielsen@radiumhotsprings.ca

The deadline for receipt of applications is May 15th, 2023 at 4:00 p.m. Only those applicants short listed will be contacted for an interview. Applications may be sent to the attention of Adrian Bergles at:

The Village of Radium Hot Springs PO Box 340 4836 Radium Blvd Radium Hot Springs, BC V0A 1M0 cao@radiumhotsprings.ca

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

get growing!

Edible Acres Café

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.

Free to all - no registration required Hwy 93/95 Windermere 250-342-3236

Director advises caution around ood risk

By Lyonel Doherty lyonel@columbiavalleypioneer.com

While flooding has hit various parts of B.C. hard, Regional District of East Kootenay (RDEK) officials are keeping a close eye on the local scene.

“If you were to ask me what keeps me up at night I would definitely say that the flood risk in Area F is high on the list at this time of year,” said electoral director Susan Clovechok.” “But that said, our staff have been proactive in preparing for the potential of spring flooding,”

she noted.

Clovechok said RDEK staff continue to monitor weather forecasts and maintain communication with other emergency personnel. ey have also established self-fill sandbag stations and are monitoring stream levels and forecasted conditions, she pointed out.

“[We] are ready to respond to issues at a moment’s notice, not only in Area F but across the region.”

While Clovechok said they don’t have any local flooding at this time, water levels are high on the heels of this warm spell and “we are encouraging all residents

to be aware and use extreme caution as water levels can change rapidly at this time of year.”

e RDEK encourages residents who live in floodprone areas to take steps to be prepared in case flooding occurs.

Self-fill sandbag stations have been established at Fairmont Hot Springs Road (behind old barn at Mountainside Golf Course, Windermere Fire Hall (1635 Highway 93/95), and Elk River Inn in Hosmer (Highway 3 at 6th Avenue). Residents are reminded to bring their own shovels and gloves.

e BC River Forecast Centre has issued a “flood watch” for the East Kootenay region as river levels are expected to rise. e key is to be prepared by planning ahead to protect your property. An emergency kit is also highly recommended.

e RDEK continues to urge residents to sign up for the Evacuation Notification System which notifies registrants if their property is within an emergency alert or order area. For more information visit www.rdek.bc.ca.

Métis celebrate Harvest Walk

By Julia Magsombol Local Journalism Initiative julia@columbiavalleypioneer.com

Monday hits differently. It’s the day when many people feel lazy —- but not for the Columbia Valley Métis Association (CVMA) because it’s the day when they desire to discuss their culture and traditions.

e association celebrates Pawahikayhk (harvest) or Harvest Walk on the first and third Monday of every month.

Monica Fisher, president of the CVMA, said the public event is an “opportunity to meet with our elders and meet with our community members to find out more information about who the Métis are, as well as grow our community.”

e gathering is about learning ethnobotany, traditional wild food and medicine with Kalista Pruden — an environmental educator and one of the board directors of CVMA. Fisher added that the two-hour event has been happening for the last three years. ere were more than 25 people who attended this year.

“[ ey all] walked around the Lillian Johnson Canyon area … and [Kalista] taught about traditional medicines and edible plants,” Fisher said.

Fisher explained that it was an opportunity for family and friends to gather. ere were games, food, and much more. is event is about connecting with the community and helping specific individuals with their application process for citizenship.

Fisher noted the whole point of this gathering is to “celebrate Métis culture.” She plans to continue the event for years to come. e next gathering will be on May 15 from 5 to 7 p.m. For people who are interested they can meet at Lake Lillian parking lot. She invites everyone to attend.

For more information, visit: http://www.columbiavalleymetis.ca.

The Capilano

Medical clinics, hospital set for GoByBike Week

By Steve Hubrecht steve@columbiavalleypioneer.com

ose involved in the healthcare industry in the Columbia Valley are trying to wheel (or run or ebike) their industry toward a greener future.

Staff at the Invermere and District Hospital, the Invermere Medical Clinic and Chisel Peak Medical Clinic have set up teams for a friendly competition during B.C.’s upcoming GoByBike Week. ey are inviting other local businesses, schools, organizations, groups or individuals to join in.

GoByBike Week runs from Monday, May 29 to Friday June 2.

e provincial initiative began years ago, and is meant to encourage people to bike or use other forms of non motorized transportation or active transportation to get to and from work, school, around town and for any other trips that might normally be done by conventional vehicle.

Anybody wishing to participate can login to the website, create an account, and then create a team (or join an existing team as an additional rider). You log your kilometres and this is converted into carbon emissions saved.

e idea to have a community-wide friendly contest came from the Invermere District Hospital Environmental Sustainability Committee, which strives to make

Interior Health’s operation in the Columbia Valley more environmentally friendly.

“ e name says biking, but really we want to see people try out all kinds of carbon-free, human-powered transportation that they might not otherwise try,” committee member Nadine Hale told the Pioneer

Hale said that “it’s all wins” when it comes to cycling and active transportation. ese modes of transport are great for physical fitness and health, mental well being, creating more connection with community, fostering a sense of place, saving money, and helping the planet by reducing carbon emissions.

“We are trying to engage in more climate change awareness, and this is a great way to do that,” said doctor and sustainability committee member Jane Fleet. “We want as many people as possible using non motorized transportation that week. We’d love to see other groups join in.”

e formation of clinic and hospital-based teams has created a friendly rivalry, explained Fleet, which hopefully gets people to pedal, ebike or walk even farther.

Both medical clinics have team names (the Chiseled Peakers and the Invermere Mighty Clinic) and have made a trophy.

“It’s all about looking at how we can modify things to make them better,” said Fleet, adding not all doctors are biking all

the way from their homes to the clinics each day. Some, for instance, will drive part way (to make things a bit more feasible) and then bike from there.

Fleet herself will ebike from her Toby Benches home.

Hopefully the week kick starts some long lasting habits, she added. “We are trying to encourage people to make this change on a more permanent basis . . . sometimes climate change can seem like

an overwhelming issue, but small changes do add up.”

Lakeside Cycle is offering free safety checks, ebike trials and discounted ebike rentals for the week.

To sign up or find out more, visit: gobybikebc.ca.

You can create your own team or join the Invermere District Hospital team by searching for the team name once you are logged in.

OU T O F O F F I C E …

Exciting news from Columbia Valley Food and Farm. The 2023 edition of the Local Food Guide will be going online!

Exciting news from Columbia Valley Food and Farm The 2023 edition of the Local Food Guide will be going online!

This means that the beautifully printed Local Food Guide will no longer be available Printing costs and the related environmental impact have led us to the decision that a move to an online resource is the best way for the guide to remain both relevant and sustainable

For many years, various local food organizations have been strong and effective advocates of locally grown and raised products and delicious locally processed food From ranchers to farmers and market gardeners, to honey producers, jam-makers, and other delicious ar tisanal food makers, we worked together to highlight this impor tant sector of our community and economy

Star ting in 2008 a local food guide was produced in a collaborative effor t with the Columbia Valley Botanical Gardens and Centre for Sustainable Living (now

Groundswell), Cranbrook Food Action, Creston Valley Food Action and Interior Health This guide covered the entire East Kootenays In the intervening years, a guide that focusses on the Columbia Valley has been published annually in one form or another with revolving suppor t from the RDEK, Areas F and G, District of Invermere, Groundswell, The Windermere District Farmers’ Institute, Slow Food Columbia Valley, the Columbia Valley Food Corridor Association, Columbia Valley Food and Farm, and suppor t from private donors

We look forward to the oppor tunities this change will offer as we continue to suppor t and promote foods grown and made in the Columbia Valley

If you are a food producer or a food processor, please go to www foodandfarm ca to register your offerings in the guide

Thank you, Food and Farm

Thursday, May 11

✰ Wings over the Rockies Nature Festival Continues until the 14th Tickets to remaining events can be found at w w w.wingsover therockies org

✰ Li ’l Peeps ar t show continues in the Columbia Valley Centre Foyer Come see ar t on display from kids at Columbia Valley Childcare Societies

✰ May 7-13: National Emergenc y Preparedness Week Enter in photo contest by May 13. Learn more at w w w.invermere.bc.libraries.coop/ explore/

• 9:15 a.m.: StrongStar t/C AP-C at Edgewater Elementar y on Tuesdays and Thursdays Join this free drop -in program; ages 0 to 5 + caregivers

10 a.m.: Parent & Tot Connec t 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 Librar y Come for one - onone 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 Legion, to reser ve call Jan: 250-3421196

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

• 2 p.m.: Tech Time at the Radium Public Librar y. 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

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

• 6:45 p.m.: Texas Hold 'Em Poker Tournament at the Invermere Legion ever y 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, May 12

9:15 a.m.: Strong Star t Eileen Madson. Ever y Monday and Friday; Ever y 1st and 3rd Wednesday For children 0- 5 and caregivers!

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

• 10:30 a.m.: Family Stor ytime at the Invermere Public Librar y Join us at the librar y each week for stories, songs and a crafts!

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!

• 6:30 -8:30 p.m: Dynamic Archer y Speed Shooting Come tr y Archer y at Luxor Corrals Call 250-347-9048 to register

• 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! Ever y 2nd Friday

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

Saturday, May 13

✰ 10 a.m.: Mother ’s Day Flowers (that keep on flowering). Create and take home a beautiful planter for your patio/ balcony with Groundswell. Register at w w w.groundswellnetwork.ca

✰ 10:30: Emergenc y Preparedness Workshop. Drop -in, all are welcome at the Invermere Librar y

✰ 11a.m.-3 p.m.: Annual Mother ’s Day Plant S ale at Groundswell Greenhouse.

✰ 11:30 a.m. Mother ’s Day Walk: Get ac tive for the Invermere Women’s Shelter! At Fairmont Hot Springs Resor t, register in advance: w w w. fairmonthotsprings.com/

✰ 12 p.m.: Radium Woodcar ver Days Enjoy West Coast Lumberjack show; Live music; outdoor market; BBQ; Kids Zone; Auc tion; Beverage Garden. Bring a lawn chair or blanket w w w.Radiumar ts.ca

✰ 5 p.m.: Wings over the Rockies Spring Soiree and Key Note presentation by Dale Leckie Tickets at w w w.wingsover therockies.org• 10 a.m.-noon: Pickleball Club drop -in play

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

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

• 3 p.m. - 11:59 p.m : Wings & Things, Meat Draw & 50/50 at the Legion, pub grub done right!

Sunday, May 14

✰ 10 a.m. -2 p.m.: Mother ’s Day Brunch at Fairmont Hot Springs Resor t. Reser vations at 250-345-6070.

✰ 10 a.m.- 2p.m.: Mother ’s Day Brunch at Eagle Ranch. w w w.eagleranchresor t.com to make a reser vation online or call 1-877-877-3889

✰ 7 p.m.: Wings over the Rockies Live Per formance: Sean McCann, co -founder of the Canadian Band, the Great Big Sea. Tickets at w w w wingsover therockies.org

• 10a.m.: Indoor Pickleball at the Invermere Curling Club

• 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.: Cards, Cribbage and Dar ts 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 & Eater y Accompanied minors are permitted No cover

Monday, May 15

• 9:15 a.m.: StrongStar t at Eileen Madson. Ever y Monday and Friday, ever y 1st and 3rd Wednesday for children 0-5 and their caregivers!

• 10 a.m Senior's Yoga at the Columbia Valley Centre $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.: Industr y Night at the White House Pub in Windermere Free pool + cheap drinks for resor t and restaurant staff

• 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.

• 6:30 p.m. - 8:30 p.m.: Dynamic Archer y Speed Shooting Come tr y your hand at Archer y at Luxor Corrals Call 250-347-9048 to register

Tuesday, May 16

9 a.m.: StrongStar t/C AP- C at Edgewater Elementar y 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 Connec t 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.: Seniors Fitness Columbia Valley Centre on Tuesdays, $2 drop -in.

• 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 p.m.: Pickleball Club Skills and Drills

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

Wednesday, May 17

✰ 6:30p.m.: Let ’s talk money, with special guest Roxane Archer. Learn the ins and outs of finances, building wealth, financial futures, saving, retirement and more! Invermere Librar y drop -in session. No registration.

• 9 a.m. - 11 a.m.: StrongStar t 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.: StrongStar t Ever y Monday & Friday Ever y 1st & 3rd Wednesday

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

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

• 1 p.m.: Tennis Club at Kinsmen Beach Cour ts

• 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. 6 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 Ever y Wednesday at ULLR BAR

Tennis players unhappy with pickleball plan

Richmond Studney told the Pioneer that at a recent meeting of Columbia Valley Mixed Doubles Tennis “the mixed doubles players were unanimous in thinking the proposal is not a good one.”

e three tennis courts at Pynelogs Rotary Ball Park all get used, explained Studney, adding recently the courts were in fact so busy that people had to patiently wait their turn to play tennis.

Once upon a time there were more than three courts at that location, but when the CPR Lodge was renovated some courts were removed, said Studney.

“Tennis players haven’t forgotten that . . . we have not made ourselves well known, like the pickleball players have, because we haven’t needed to. But now we do need to, because if they reduce the tennis courts to two, we are going to have a difficult time accommodating people.”

“If you are a resident there, do you really want more noise in addition to the train?” asked Studney. “ ey (the people living near the tennis courts) are not going to stand for this.”

Studney also said there could be safety issues in turning one of the tennis courts into four pickleball courts, explaining it simply may not fit. “ e way it is shown (in the district’s proposal) is silly . . . pickleball players will be running into tennis players and vice versa. ere’s just no room. It’s an impossible situation,” he said.

Invermere Pickleball Club member John Robertson said local pickleball players are also unhappy about the district’s proposal.

Local tennis players wait for their chance to swing a raquet during recent Columbia Valley Mixed Doubles Tennis play at the courts by Pynelogs Rotary Ball Park. ere were more players than court space — a situation that local tennis players say would get worse if the District of Invermere converts one of these courts for pickleball.

By Steve Hubrecht steve@columbiavalleypioneer.com

Local tennis players are unhappy with a District of Invermere proposal to convert one of the tennis courts at the Pynelogs Rotary Ball Park into pickleball courts.

e Invermere Pickleball Club has been pressing the district for more than a year to create dedicated outdoor pickleball courts somewhere in town. A few

weeks ago the district made public a plan to potentially change one of the three tennis courts by Pynelogs into four pickleball courts. e district is planning to resurface the tennis courts this year, and a report by Invermere director of public works Angela MacLean and Invermere planner Rory Hromadnik outlined the possibility of redoing one of those courts for pickleball. at suggestion has not gone over well with Columbia Valley tennis players.

All three courts are regularly used by Columbia Valley Mixed Doubles Tennis on Monday, Wednesday and Friday, he explained. On Friday, April 27, the courts were not enough and “we had to rotate people in to play,” he added.

Studney also noted that tennis courts at Pynelogs Rotary Ball Park are very close to residential homes, and that the noise of pickleball will be a great disturbance for those living there. He referenced a comment by Invermere Mayor Al Miller in last week’s Pioneer that “yes, there is the noise (of pickleball). We also have trains and other things in that neighbourhood that make noise. Our discussions as council will include that and we’ll see where it goes.”

“ e feeling is that it doesn’t make a lot of sense to take away a court from tennis. We’re (pickleball players) not in favour of that. And I don’t think there is enough space there to fit four pickleball courts and three tennis courts. It just won’t work,” Robertson told the Pioneer “It will also be noisy for those living there. It’s not a satisfactory solution for either group or for the neighbours.” e pickleball club put forward a proposal to Rocky Mountain School District 6 about creating pickleball courts in the Mount Nelson Athletic Park (MNAP), said Robertson. e school district owns the land on which MNAP sits. at proposal includes building new basketball courts, said Robertson, adding that if the school district is amenable to this plan, the project would still need to be funded by the District of Invermere.

Get a scholarship

Submitted

Local youth can apply for more than $120,000 in scholarships and bursaries this year thanks to donors through the Columbia Valley Community Foundation (CVCF).

Students pursuing further education at universities, colleges, technical and trade schools are encouraged to apply for these funds if they have spent their formative (K-12) years in the Columbia Valley, defined as the area stretching from Spillimacheen to Canal Flats. ese awards are not just for new high school graduates heading off to college or university, according to CVCF Executive Director iloma Hofer. She noted that community members are eligible to receive awards twice in their lifetime and can apply between the ages of 17 and 35. “So, if you have embarked on a new career and are retraining, we encourage you to investigate this opportunity,” she said.

For example, the Arnold Ellis Scholarships, Bidder Bursary and Erwin Kloos Memorial Scholarship are applicable to any field of study. e Alan J. Witherspoon Memorial Fine Arts Fund provides support to those pursuing a career in the fine arts.

“Past recipients consistently express gratitude not only for the funds that alleviate the financial burden of higher education, but also the sense that the rest of the Valley is cheering them on,” Hofer said, expressing her thanks to the donors.

Photo credit Dennis Minty

Local distillery in high spirits winning gold

Make it a richly rewarding Mother’s Day we ekend….

go GREEN

Start your day with scrumptious Egg’s Bennie at Winderberry Edibles Café, and take home your early violas and pansies to plant by your door; their happy little faces greet you coming and going, and they can handle a bit of frost.

Then it s off to Home Hardware for the Grand Opening of its new greenhouse and early bird prizes – get your name in for the big barbeque draw and check out their new drivethrough soil pick up

Participate in the Groundswell/Home Hardware edible flowers and herbal tea packages. You ll be hard-pressed to choose from their glorious new hanging baskets. Then you ’ re off to Groundswell’s Saturday Plant Sale to check out homegrown tomatoes, peppers, eggplant, and more Sturdy plants, grown valley strong by the community for the community There is a lot to enjoy at Groundswell Remember to check out their Premium Membership which gives you discounts at Home Hardware, Fuze, Hopkins Harvest, and Old Blue Truck Farm. It will pay for itself in no time while creating food sustainability for the valley

You may want to circle back to Winderberry for tea or mimosas and appies or a takehome Farmers pie for supper Sit and relax, surrounded by flowers and trees, after a memory-making day with Mom.

Come see us at all 3 Greenhouses on the Mother’s Day weekend! There will be lots of giveaways.

Mother, I have learned enough now

To know I have learned nearly nothing

On this day when mothers are being honored, Let me thank you Maya Angelou

By Steve Hubrecht steve@columbiavalleypioneer.com

An independent Columbia Valley distillery earned some eye-catching results at one of the world’s foremost spirits shows.

Taynton Bay Spirits’ all-natural vodka won a gold medal and a ‘best in show by country’ at this year’s London Spirits Competition. It was the top-scoring vodka from Canada, the top-scoring vodka from North America, and the third-highest scoring vodka in the world, out of a field of more than 170.

e distillery’s gin got a silver medal, and its popular raspberry vodka got a bronze at the London, England event.

“It’s one of the biggest international competitions we can enter, and it’s a really big deal for us. It’s open to everybody, so there are big brands there as well as independent craft distillers like us,” said Taynton Bay Spirits co-owner Justin Atterbury. “ is is a big feather in our cap.”

Taynton Bay’s all-natural vodka scored 93 out of a possible 100 points.

What’s the key to making a top-notch vodka right here in the Columbia Valley?

According to Atterbury it’s all a matter of patience.

“It really comes down to having a slower process. You have to take a lot of time with the product. It takes time to learn how to make it right. e vodka we make now is night-and-day different than what we did five years ago when we started,” Atterbury told the Pioneer Atterbury was quick to add that “people who know me” know that patience is not my strong point” and said credit for the awards belongs mostly to his fellow partners Chris Genovese, Jason Powers, Steve Kuffler and Ricky Ebuenga.

“It really is a story of learning,” Genovese told the Pioneer, adding that the company entered the same contest in 2020, and its all-natural vodka earned a bronze then. Continued on page 14

e Taynton Bay Spirits team celebrates their locally made all-natural vodka winning a gold medal and a ‘best in show by country’ at this year’s London Spirits Competition.

Photo submitted

Taynton Bay Spirits wins gold for vodka

Continued from page 13 at just fired up the local distillers to do even better, he added.

“You are constantly taste testing all the big brands (of vodka) and then going back to the books, so to speak, and refining. You’re always tinkering, refining and changing things, until you have a product that is so clean it becomes outstanding,” said Genovese. “We keep improving the filtration process, improving the equipment, and

trying to make each batch better.”

Taynton Bay Spirits uses local ingredients as much as possible, and begins its vodka with wheat grown on Schutter Farms just south of Invermere.

“Having Egbert (Schutter)’s ‘magic wheat’ certainly helps make our vodka what it is,” said Atterbury.

Taynton Bay Spirits is especially proud to score so well with its vodka, because vodka is one of the trickiest spirits to do well, noted Genovese.

NOTICE OF WORK

Athalmer Trails Construction

The District of Invermere has contracted MarWest Industries Ltd. (Castlegar) to undertake the construction of new trails in Athalmer The focus of this work is to expand our existing trail network and provide safe pedestrian access. Work will be taking place on the Lake Windermere Public Lands (Area C), along 3rd Avenue (Area A), along Laurier Street between 3rd Avenue and 4th Avenue (Area G), and along 4th Avenue (Area H) all as shown on the map below

“ ere’s nothing to hide behind. With gin, for instance, you add botanicals, so you do have a little bit of room for error. Not with vodka. It is the rawest form of the art of distilling. If it’s not good, it’s not good. You simply have to be good at making it. ere’s no flavours to mask anything,” said Genovese.

He explained that distilling wheat creates its own subtle natural flavours at each point of the distilling process. Some of these flavours come off at the start of the process, and others at the end. Some are good flavours and others are “off flavours, almost like nail polish.”

Figuring out exactly which parts of the process create which flavours and tweaking the vodka recipe accordingly is how Taynton Bay keeps improving its vodka, said Genovese. “ e key seems to be learning what flavours you don’t want, and then figuring out how to take them out of the vodka. It’s a long process, and it’s a real team effort.”

“It is kind of overwhelming to get gold. It is such a great honour,” Powers told the Pioneer

“ e Taynton Bay family is so proud of this accomplishment. We couldn’t have done it without the support of all our valued clientele Canada-wide. We can’t wait to take it to the moon,” added Kuffler.

Just getting the spirits to the competition in the first place is no small feat. When Taynton Bay first entered the contest three years ago, the duties, customs and paperwork ran to more than a thousand dollars just to get four bottles of vodka and gin into the United Kingdom. en the shipment ended up stuck in a customs warehouse, because the total payment was a few dollars off. e only way to get the shipment out of that warehouse was to pay in person, or to have someone with an address in the UK pay by credit card. Luckily Atterbury has an English brother-in-law living in Toronto. at brother-in-law has a sister living in the UK who was able to go to the warehouse, pay the extra money and get the spirits to show “just in time,” explained Atterbury.

The trails construction mostly involves grading and paving. Traffic and road disruptions should be minimal However, the trail construction along 4th Avenue involves the addition of a curb and gutter and creation of stormwater works which may cause some traffic disruptions at times in the area. Some of that work will involve the removal of pavement between Laurier Street and Cartwright Street along 4th Avenue

It will be necessary to close sections of 4th Avenue 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, vehicle 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 by Marwest. The District and MarWest Industries apologize in advance for any traffic delays and disruptions that this important work may impose on the public

If you have any questions or concerns about the Athalmer Trails Project, please contact the District of Invermere by telephone: 250-342-9281 or by email: info@invermere net

Angela MacLean, P.Eng.

Andrew Young, MCIP, RPP Director of Public Works & Operations Chief Administrative Officer

What’s the key to making the third-highest scoring vodka in the world? Patience, according to Taynton Bay Spirits. Image submitted

Don’t forget the spare tire, honey

Lyonel Doherty lyonel@columbiavalleypioneer.com

“Honey, did you check the spare tire for the trailer?” Lorna shouted again from the backyard.

Up to his elbows in camping gear, Dean rolled his eyes at their golden retriever staring up at him from the hallway. at must have been Lorna’s 10th query as they were getting ready for their annual summer vacation on the road.

“Don’t worry about it!” he shouted back, giving a stuffed animal a firm kick across the floor, which sent the dog scrambling after it.

Under his breath, he grumbled, “check this, check that. What am I, a bellhop?”

A week later they were stranded on a remote highway because the trailer’s spare tire was flatter than Dean’s wallet. Needless to say, Lorna didn’t speak to him until the next morning when they finally got going again. Oh, the joys of travel.

Don’t get caught by Murphy’s Law like Lorna and Dean did. Plan and prepare accordingly to ensure your vehicle is up to snuff this summer.

BCAA offers several tips to get roadtrip-ready. ese include:

• Double check the expiry dates on your license and insurance.

• Make a list of everything that needs fixing or replacing, such as wipers, filters, leaks, tires, brakes, hoses, belts, and plugs.

• Test your battery before leaving town.

• Test your air conditioning to see if it works properly.

• Don’t leave home without an emergency kit in case you get stranded (like Lorna and Dean).

• Make sure all fluids are topped up, such as coolant, oil and wiper fluid.

• If you’re really worried, take your car in to get a professional inspection before making that long haul.

• Oh, and don’t forget the spare tires (or you may be in for a silent night).

Repair • T ire Sales and

You can rely on K•5 Mechanical, an Integra Tire Centre, to give you good advice and the highest levels of ser vice. Staff have the knowledge and experience to do it right and keep you safe on the road, and you will always be ser ved efficiently, courteously and with integrity.

supporting International Nursing Day May 12

Disguised as angels

By Lyonel Doherty lyonel@columbiavalleypioneer.com

ere are real angels on this earth, and they are cleverly disguised as nurses. ey are there in our darkest times, during our worst pain and our loneliest moments. But we have to ask: who is there for them?

As we celebrate National Nursing Week (May-8-14), we honour their daily sacrifices to improve our health care in the face of insurmountable challenges. If Florence Nightingale were alive today, she’d be so proud of our nurses for their unbending courage and dedication.

Nightingale was a British nurse born on May 12, 1820. She was affectionately known as the “lady with the lamp” in charge of nursing soldiers in Turkey during the Crimean War. is year’s theme is “Our Nurses. Our Future,” which celebrates these brave young women and men on the front lines. How they got through COVID in one piece is a testament to their compassion and resilience, and they still managed to smile to comfort the sick and the dying.

is writer recalls the extra Jello that the nurses gave him in one Ontario hospital where he spent a week recovering from an operation. ese nurses were like a second mom to him, calming his fears and making him laugh through the pain. He missed them dearly when it came time to go home. Years later, when his father was dying of prostate cancer, these angels made his last few days a comforting journey to the end. He was an avid fisherman, and family members recall seeing him gesturing by reeling in a fish while he was sitting up in his hospice bed. at night he died. In peace and with dignity. And his family will never forget what those nurses did for him.

In honour of National Nursing Week, associations from across Canada have launched a social media campaign called #HeyNurse at www.cna-aiic.ca/en/membership/member-engagement/hey-nurse) to pay tribute to nurses by telling their stories.

On the Praise a Nurse Facebook page, many testimonies are published. For example, one person wrote:

Continued on page 17

honoured for their courage, sacrifice

Continued from page 16

“I definitely have the highest respect for nurses. My auntie is a nurse and I didn’t actually realize the hard work, dedication and extremely long hours she puts in to do a vital job that really is undervalued. Nurses definitely need to be given so much more recognition and it is clear that they do not have the respect they deserve.”

Laura omas, Registered Nurse and Patient Care Coordinator at Invermere District Hospital, said working in the Columbia Valley is busy, fun, and always interesting.

“We have such a skilled and talented group of healthcare professionals at the Invermere District Hospital and I believe this helps create a sense of comfort and support.”

omas added that the valley is such a beautiful place and full of activities that “allow many of us to have a healthy worklife balance.”

Registered nurse Patricia A. McQuinn, president of the Canadian Hospice Palliative Care Nurses Group, said her certification in hospice care made her a better nurse.

Susan Morris, RN, and president of the Canadian Council of Cardiovascular Nurses, said certified nurses have an increased pride in their profession which has the potential to improve patient outcomes.

Registered nurse Laura McNulty,

president of the National Association PeriAnesthesia Nurses of Canada, said being certified encourages her to keep current with best practices.

In 2021 there were 459,000 regulated nurses eligible to practise, according to the Canadian Institute for Health Information. is included 312,382 registered nurses - a growth of 2.5 per cent from 2020, 7,400 nurse practitioners - a growth of 10.7 per cent from 2020, 132,886 licenced practical nurses (LPNs) and registered nurses - a growth of 1.6 per cent, and 6,337 registered psychiatric nurses - a growth of 3.6 per cent. LPNs are the youngest group of nurses with an average age of 41 years. In 2021, about 91 per cent of regulated nurses were female in Canada.

In all categories of regulated nurses, the percentage working in rural areas has declined between 2020 and 2021.

e Canadian Federation of Nurses Unions (CFNU) continues to express concerns about a nursing shortage, which they report began prior to the COVID-19 pandemic. A 2018 analysis predicted a shortage of 117,600 nurses in Canada by 2030 (Scheffler & Arnold, 2018). A 2019 survey of nurses conducted by the CFNU with researchers from the University of Regina revealed that 83 per cent of nurses felt that their institution’s core health care staff was insufficient to meet patient needs.

It takes a lot of compassion

Submitted

Coping with terminal illness can be challenging, even for those people with immense support systems behind them. At some point in one’s care plan, it may be recommended to transition from actively treating or trying to cure a condition to making the person more comfortable. is is when hospice steps in.

Generally speaking, hospice is reserved for people who expect to die from an illness within the next six months. Hospice care can take place in a health care setting or in a person’s private home. Hospice nurses are vital parts of a hospice care team. ese people care for those who have opted for hospice at the ends of their lives and fulfill the hospice philosophy of comfort and quality based on each person’s unique needs.

According to Samaritan Life-Enhancing Care, a hospice nurse serves many purposes. A hospice nurse

discusses and explains the patient’s prognosis, and performs assessments and reviews medical histories. e nurse will administer medication for pain and monitor conditions and additional needs. Hospice nurses work to support the family and advocate for care according to the patient’s wishes. ey also can answer questions and address concerns, serving as sounding boards in difficult situations. Hospice nurses also provide emotional support and can facilitate spiritual support. Nurses also may be present at the time of death if asked. Hospice nurses also may help coordinate counseling for surviving family members who are experiencing grief.

Hospice nurses may be classified as intake admissions, case managers, visit nurses, and triage nurses. One or more hospice nurses will be involved with patient care over the course of treatment.

Most hospice care providers are Certified Hospice and Palliative Nursing Assistants or Certified Hospice and Palliative Licensed Nurses. It is important for people considering hospice care nursing to determine the certification and coursework necessary for a career in the field.

Families seeking hospice care needs should work with certified individuals. It takes compassionate to work in hospice care.

ese invaluable individuals step in to offer assistance during trying times for individuals and their families.

Metro Creative

P IONEER C LASSIFIEDS

• Phone: 250-341-6299 • Fax: 1-855-377-1312

• Email: info@columbiavalleypioneer.com

• Web: www.columbiavalleypioneer.com

Peter Klaui

November 24, 1949

~ April 1, 2023

It’s with great sadness that the Klaui family announces the passing of Peter Klaui.

Peter was born in Calgary, AB to Peter & Annetta Klaui. As a child, he lived in Calgary and later in Holland while his father was working in the Middle East. The family then moved to Edgewater, B.C. where his sister, Mimi Price, husband Wayne Price and their children, Christy Olson, Jeremy Price and Tanya Smith still reside.

As a young man, Peter tried his hand at many diverse jobs including a downhill ski instructor in Banff, AB and a ticket agent for PWA Airlines. Unable to decide in which direction to go, he decided to try University where he earned two degrees in psychology and sociology at UBC. Peter and Diane met at UBC and studied, partied and sport fished through the early 1970’s.

With his University degrees on a forever back shelf, he decided to go fishing. Pete left Vancouver and bought an old double-ender, east hope powered troller called the Margaret Rose and started his long career as a commercial fisherman. Several years later, Diane quit teaching and commuting, and they started a commercial fish buying business purchasing a new troller/ packer called the Richmond Star, spending the next 15 years fishing/buying fish. In the mid 1990’s, with commercial fishing in severe decline, they launched a new career in guided hunting and sports fishing on the Central Coast of B.C. Peter became a guide outfitter and captain to pursue their new family adventure. Peter, Mike, Michelle, their standard poodle ‘Beau’ and Diane crewed on the Estero until their retirement.

Peter is survived by wife Diane, children Michelle and Mike Klaui, grandchildren Cove Moldofsky, Linaya, William and Arianna Klaui.

Margret Kunze

August 6, 1939

October 16, 2022

In memory of our dear Wife, Mother, Grandmother and friend Margret Kunze who passed away on October 16, 2022 in Fairmont Hot Springs, British Columbia.

Please join in honoring Margaret’s life on Sunday May 14, 2023 at 11:30 am, at the Fairmont Evergreen Cemetery – 4920 Ogilvy Avenue, Fairmont Hot Springs, British Columbia. There will be a Celebration of Life Reception to follow, held at the Fairmont Hot Springs Resort (Cedar Room) at 1:00 pm.

Arrangements entrusted to McPherson Funeral Services.

Fred Hynes

August 22, 1962

~ February 16, 2023

It is with great sadness we announce the passing of Fred Hynes.

A graveside service will be held at Edgewater Cemetery on May 13, 2023 at 11 a.m. Celebration Of Life to follow at Edgewater Legion.

COOPER

Al-Anon. Are you concerned about or affec ted 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

Alcoholics Anonymous. If alcohol is causing problems or conic t in your life, AA can help All meetings are at 7 p m Columbia United AA, Invermere: Saturday, Sunday, Tuesday and Wednesday at the BC Ser vice Building, South End – 624 4th St , Invermere Please call 250342-2424 for more information or to speak with someone from our fellowship

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It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Edith - Rocky - Cooper in Invermere, British Columbia, with loved ones by her side. She is pre-deceased by her parents, Evelyn and Alf Stone, her sister, Helen (Frank) Anderson, and her niece, Shirley (Bryan) Waller Lovingly remembering her wonderful sense of humour are her husband of 59 years, Rowland - Rowly - Cooper, her daughter, Sally Cooper, her niece, Sandra (Bill) Brudvik, and many dear friends.

Born in Regina, raised in Saskatoon, Saskatchewan, Edith followed her adventurous spirit and returned to Regina, where she completed Nurses Training She later moved to Montreal, Quebec for a specialty in Psychiatric Nursing. She then settled in Calgary, where she married Rowly and gained her enduring nickname, Rocky

In 1970, Rocky and Rowly began building their dream cabin (by hand) in Invermere, BC. Through the ensuing years, Rocky made many wonderful memories on the water and in the mountains. She also formed many lasting friendships with some of the valley’s most caring people.

In 1990, Rocky and Rowly made Invermere their permanent base for adventures. They travelled all over BC, through the eastern provinces and states, to Hawaii many winters, and on an epic cruise through the Panama Canal.

Throughout her life Rocky had a special bond with dogs. Sensing her affection, dogs were drawn to her, and she lit up lavishing them with pets and conversation. Right to the end, she kept a place in her heart for her dear childhood dog, Blackie. No doubt, Blackie was first in line to greet her on the other side of the Rainbow Bridge.

Per Rocky’s wishes, there will not be a service. In lieu of flowers, those wishing to honour her are asked to consider donating to their local dog rescue society

Narcotics Anonymous, Marijuana Anonymous Open Meeting

Wednesdays 5:30-6:30 p m at the BC Ser vice Building, South End 624-4th St Invermere

10,000 CHEERS to Ron, the BEST par t of my life! You have loved, cherished, RESPEC TED, encouraged, honoured me since the day we met! In 52+ years you kept E VERY promise you ever made! Though imper fec t human beings we've been PERFEC T for each other, blessed you chose me for your wife!

A huge cheers and hear tfelt congratulations to local high school teacher Alan Tenta for being a Season 10 contestant on the Histor y Channel outdoor realit y show "Alone," star ting on June 8th and for creating his "Tenta O utdoors" YouTube channel

Cheers to Alexander MacD onald for his excellent letter re: the proposed pickle ball cour ts in Ft. Point. As residents in the area who will be affec ted by the noise we applaud him speaking out

Cheers to Peter Hecher, rst class, kind, caring paramedic who has helped so many people here in the Valley In par ticular I want to express my appreciation to you for ever y time you came to our home to help my late husband Your professionalism shines through

Cheers to R icky for dropping in at the office and giving us some of your wonder ful homemade Mar zipan It was delicious! You are ver y thoughtful and kind

Huge Cheers to the person that turned in my cellphone/wallet to AG foods on Saturday May 6th, & Cheers to Marion at AG foods for calling me One of the many joys of small town living

Cheers to Dave and Marilyn, Enis and Peter for helping Laurie at the Big Horn Cafe in Radium on S aturday, and to the Radium Fire D ept and Invermere Ambulance staff who were so quick to respond Cheers to the young lady sitting nex t to us who showed such kindness

AD Designer

e Columbia Valley Pioneer is looking for a full-time Ad Designer/Production Person for our print and digital publishing operation based in Invermere. e Columbia Valley Pioneeer operates a weekly print publication, daily news site online, and various special projects. e 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.

e 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 forward their resume to: Amanda Nason, Associate Publisher advertising@columbiavalleypioneer.com

The company o ers competitive bene t and pension plans. The position is based in our o ce at 1008, 8th Ave Invermere, B.C. The position is available immediately.

Print and Digital Reporter/Photographer

e Columbia Valley Pioneer is looking for a full-time Print and Digital Reporter/Photographer for our news operation based in Invermere. We operate a daily news site and a weekly print publication.

e successful candidate works well in a team setting, but is self motivated. You will be responsible to write multiple news stories every week for print and on-line publication, take photographs to accompany stories, attend community events and lay out pages (all while respecting Social Distancing requirements).

Quali cations

• Journalism education: degree, diploma or certi cate; or equivalent work experience.

• Valid driver’s license and reliable vehicle.

• Positive attitude, must be organized and able to work both independently and in a team setting.

• Experience in InDesign, Photoshop, and posting to social media. e company o ers competitive bene t and pension plans.

Interested candidates should forward their resume to Amanda Nason, Associate Publisher/Sales Manager: advertising@columbiavalleypioneer.com

Applications are open until the position is lled and is based in our o ce at

Let it grow, let it grow, let it grow

By Pastor Wayne Frater Radium Christian Fellowship Church

Ah, spring time, that special time of year when those of us who love gardening till the ground, spread the fertilizer, plant the seeds, pray, and anticipate a bountiful harvest in the fall.

It’s when the flowers begin to bloom, when the birds return, the snow melts, the trees bud, the days get longer, and there is the sense of new birth all around us. So much to give thanks for, a time to ponder on God’s goodness, on His love for us, a love so huge that words cannot describe it. In fact, the Bible tells us we can’t measure it.

In a couple of days it will be Mother’s Day, and I hope that you will take the time to remember and to show those that are near and dear to you how much you care for and love them. I also hope you take time to show God, and I think this is something we should do each day, how much we love and appreciate Him.

God has given us so much to be thankful for. When we spend time with Him, and think about His goodness, faithfulness and blessings in our life, we plant the seed,

and God makes it grow, and grow and grow; we get the benefit of the harvest.

God’s love, as it grows and grows and grows changes us on the inside when we spend time, and tell Him how much we love Him, when we focus on the fact that He saved us, and set us free.

e challenges and obstacles of day-to-day life will begin to fade away. As we learn to trust and love God, Philippians 4:6-7 happens, “Be careful for nothing; but in every thing by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known unto God.

And the peace of God, which passeth all understanding, shall keep your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.”

And God’s word in Romans 8:38,39 tells us, “For I am persuaded, that neither death, nor life, nor angels, nor principalities, nor powers, nor things present, nor things to come, nor height, nor depth, nor any other creature, shall be able to separate us from the love of God, which is in Christ Jesus our Lord.”

So as you enjoy this wonderful season we call spring, as you remember your mom on Sunday, ponder the greater love, the love God has for you and me, in fact the great love God has for all of mankind, a love so great He was willing to send His son as it says in John 3:16, “For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life."

Métis art show full of culture

By Julia Magsombol Local Journalism Initiative julia@columbiavalleypioneer.com

An upcoming art exhibit in Invermere will give people a deeper understanding of Métis culture and their way of life.

Sharon Wass, the organizer of the first Métis Pynelogs Art Show, has fond memories of her mother’s functional art while growing up. "I love those. I love the memories and stuff and the designs because it was just sort of whatever was left over from somebody's clothes, on my mother's occasional quilt.”

Wass has always admired many Métis art forms and praises the skills of the people in the valley. But she has a deeper appreciation of what these local arts really represent. She noted that Métis people were semi-nomadic; most of the time, they were on the road for work.

e first Indigenous peoples were the family of Métis and the First Nation women who allied with them. Wass said they developed their art as time went on.

Wass explained that they wore their art. “ ey wore it on their mitts, on their moccasins, on their sashes, on their vests. ey bead it and make things beautiful that they use every day."

Wass noted the materials on these come from natural resources such as porcupine quills and fur. e designs also include bead art.

"I have locally kind of admired the skill of some of the people here in the valley, so I decided I really wanted to see an art show happening," Wass said — and so she decided to organize this event, where both traditional artists and contemporary artists co-exist in one art show.

Wass said the free exhibition is not all beaded arts.

ere will be music, writings, paintings, sculptures, photography, jewelry designs, and much more. e visitors can also buy some of these items.

"It would be a nice opportunity to feature and promote and bring awareness to the greater community … the talent is here," said Monica Fisher, president of the Columbia Valley Métis Association.

Wass and Fisher hope the show will be an annual event. "I just want to see a lot of people taking pride and art that they and their family have made for generations," Wass said. "Come and enjoy a small display of our cultural art.”

e Pynelogs Art Show is available for public viewing during the month of June. It’s located at the cultural centre down by the lake.

Artists who want to present their work can contact Wass at 250-341-7521 or sharwass@yahoo.ca. For more information, visit: http://www.columbiavalleymetis.ca/

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

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 T. P E T E R’S L U T H E R A N C H U R C H

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

R A D I U M C H R I S T I A N F E L L O W S H I P 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)

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

IN GRATITUDE TO L E O G R I L L M A I R

OCTOBER 11, 1930 – MAY 1, 2023

MOUNTAIN GUIDE, HELI-SKIING PIONEER AND CMH CO-FOUNDER.

A man who made things happen, who was often behind the scenes but always present, and who was one of the most significant right-hand men in Canadian skiing and mountain history

Leo, we thank you. Everyone at CMH Heli-Skiing and Summer Adventures and across the industry owes their livelihoods to what you and Hans created together.

We’ll listen for your yodel in the spires

1 Leo strikes a pose on a pinnacle of Mount Yamnuska, Alberta Rockies, circa early 1950s

Photo by Franz Dopf 2 Leo hiking in the Bugaboos in the 2010s

Photo by Pat Morrow