Columbia Valley Pioneer, December 3, 2020

December 3, 2020 Vol. 17/Issue 49

FREE

The Columbia Valley Pioneer • 1

Your Weekly Source for News and Events

December 3, 2020

The Columbia Valley

P ioneer

PERSONAL REAL ESTATE CORPORATION

Cell: 250•341•1395 Toll Free: 1•888•258•9911

Serving the Upper Columbia Valley including Akisq’nuk and Shuswap First Nations, Spillimacheen, Brisco, Edgewater, Radium, Invermere, Windermere, Fairmont and Canal Flats

RENT SUBSIDY PROGRAM

CRAM THE CRUISER

05 RESORTS OPENING

08 DR. MANNHEIMER

10-11 FEED THE TOWN ONLINE EXCLUSIVE Cram the Cruiser was held on Saturday, Nov. 28, at the Canadian Tire. The event was a success due to the tremendous response from the Valley. Over 350 toys were collected during the day. “The Christmas Bureau was extremely appreciative, and hopefully, we can light up Christmas for some families in the Valley,” said Jaimie Cote, organizer of the annual event.

• XXXXXX

Visit our website:

16

Photo by Amanda Nason

www.columbiavalleypioneer.com

When it's time to buy or sell call...

$169,900

Personal Real Estate Corporations

Connecting exceptional people with exceptional properties for 15+ Years - Thank you!

742 15TH STREET INVERMERE MLS: 2455398

$451,000

LD SO !

!

EW N

38-8895 DOHERTY STREET MLS: 2455601

SEAN & PAUL ROGGEMAN

Connect with us :

Sean@rockieswest.com www.roggeman.ca

250-341-5445

This pristine fully furnished bdrm bth unit has been impeccably maintained and cared for. Fully Finished basement, jet tub, and a BBQ deck off the rear. FURNISHED!

Ro ies West Realt" Independentl" owned and operated

This R-2 property consisting of two separately titled lots sold over list price in competing offers.

to our sellers!

Congratulations

250-341-5300

2 • The Columbia Valley Pioneer

December 3, 2020 Highlights of the @LiveColumbiaValley Instagram account, brought to you by the Columbia Valley Community Economic Development Office, a service of the RDEK.

Bruno’s Plumbing Service Mike Sylvestre 250.342.5105 brunosplumbing@shaw.ca ~ We now service drains ~ Serving The Columbia Valley

UPCOMING EVENTS! Ser vin g th

HIGHLIGHTS

e Co lumbia Va

Join us for virtual story time!

lle y

Fridays at 10:30 am on our Facebook page Winter and Holiday themes this month!

Craft kits available each Friday.

invermere.bc.libraries.coop

#ColumbiaValleyBC

Ryan Tamelin & Tucker play some one-on-one shinny on a local frozen pond. Ryan had to give Tucker some net-minding tips. “Only a goalie can appreciate what a goalie goes through.” - Jacques Plante

HELPING TO FULFILL YOUR DREAMS

MAX FANDERL

You deserve a soak. The pools at Radium Hot Springs are Parks Canada’s only Canadian Rockies Hot Springs open through the pandemic. Shed some stress and prepare for the holiday season by choosing to visit at a quiet time of the day.

Facebook.com/flyingrealtormax

Call 250-270-0396

Rockies Realty Ltd. Each office is independently owned and operated.

max.fanderl@century21.ca

MaxFanderl.com

Local businesses have become very online savvy. None more so than the Columbia Valley’s very-own Om Organics Canada.

Wise practices during the pandemic include telling your story through the appropriate marketing channels and offering various pick-up and delivery options that resonate with their customers. Cyber Monday saw some great offers and sales from local businesses that can compete with, and win against the big box stores and global online retailers. Out of this entire crazy year, the next month is critical to many retailers, so please consider shopping locally whenever possible.

Serving the Columbia Valley since 1995

• ICBC Glass Express • Auto Glass Replacement and Chip Repair • Shower Doors • Sealed Units • Deck and Hand Railings Serving Residential and Commercial Clients

#3, 109 Industrial #2, Invermere B.C. 250-342-3659 • Fax: 250-342-3620

www.invermereglass.com

The COVID-19 safe display encourages people to admire the design. Enjoy the show by turning your car radio to FM88.9.

Special thanks to the District of Invermere staff for lighting more trees around Pothole Park. Making a fine time to walk and shop after it gets dark.

Submitted by Ryan Watmough

...to our community for your support of the in the Columbia Valley in 2020

Thank You! Arts

& safe !

Stay tuned as we work to bring you some great programs in 2021 This space sponsored by

connect with us @columbiavalleyarts N E W S PA P E R

& www.columbiavalleyarts.com

December 3, 2020

The Columbia Valley Pioneer • 3

VALLEY NEWS

Second wave of COVID-19 pandemic looms just as winter tourism season set to begin Local officials urge calm and measured approach, highlight that Columbia Valley made it through summer tourist season with pandemic going on through this before, in the spring and summer, and (for the second wave) we know way more about this (virus) than we did in the spring,” said Clovechok. “We need to continue to do the protocols that have kept us safe.”

In terms of the timing of the second wave, Miller concurred that although there is never a ‘good time’ for a pandemic, the timing of the first wave of COVID-19 in B.C. — which resulted in a lockdown in early spring, followed by easing of restrictions in late spring and early summer — happened to hit during the local tourism industry’s shoulder season (at least partially), and that this second wave, right at the start of winter, looms directly

or out of B.C., except for essential reasons. “The travel, from what I understand, is what is enabling this virus to move. The more people spread around, the more chance A potential second wave of the ongoing COVID-19 the virus has to spread around. We all have to do our pandemic is looming, with provincial health officer Dr. best to adhere to the recommendations, whether we’re Bonnie Henry having announced new restrictions two from B.C., from Alberta, or from anywhere,” said Miller. weeks ago and with cases rising around British Colum“That said, I feel from what I saw this summer, a lot of bia, and the timing is anything but ideal, coinciding as our second homeowners who were here in the valley did it does with the start of the Columbia Valley’s winter the right thing as much as the local people. They tried to tourism season. But local officials are urging a calm and keep to themselves and keep their distance. As long they measured approach, suggesting people keep things in are staying put and following the protocols, I really don’t perspective, and pointing out that the valley managed to see it (second homeowners being in the valley) as being get through the summer tourism season with the an issue.” pandemic, and expressing optimism it can be the Miller outlined that although the winter tour“If we can knuckle down and follow the rules, we can cut same this winter. ism season is nowhere near as big as the summer “Certainly, I think we all need to pay close at- the curve or flatten it, and we will be able to still get to great tourism season, it still plays a critical role in the loski season and winter recreation season.” tention to the provincial health order. I believe that cal economy, and expressed hope that valley busiout of respect for everybody, we all need to wear nesses would have a good winter season as possible. a mask. If we can knuckle down and follow the “The winter business (stemming from tourAl Miller, Invermere mayor rules, we can cut the curve or flatten it, and we will ism) is extremely important in the Columbia Valbe able to still get to great ski season and winter ley. Places like Fairmont Hot Springs Resort, Panrecreation season,” said Invermere mayor Al Miller. “If ahead of what is usually a busy time. orama Mountain Resort, and others, it’s important to the we all do the right thing, we will get back to a place of “Certainly, the timing (of the second wave) is not whole valley that they have a good winter. They are big enjoying all the recreation activities that make winter in great. But this is a pandemic, and you really don’t get employers. They keep people working, and they keep the the Columbia Valley great.” much say in when these things come. We are in unprece- Columbia Valley economy humming,” he said.

Radium mayor Clara Reinhardt pointed to keeping dented times. We are doing the best we can as individuals “We have quite a variance from our summer populathings in perspective, saying, “we’ll work on the economy and as communities. The upper levels of government are tion to our winter population, and that makes it hard unwhen will get through this. We need to focus, primarily, doing the best they can to responsibly balance the health der the best of circumstances for retail companies to have on one thing at a time, and right now, that’s making sure and safety of individuals with keeping an economy going, the right staffing. And obviously, these are not the best of everybody is healthy and safe.” but they do what they have to do. That’s where the pro- circumstances. There’s not going to be the same number Columbia River-Revelstoke MLA Doug Clovechok vincial order comes in,” said Miller. of people here for winter recreation that there normalalso emphasized perspective, pointing ly is, and that’s going to be tough on a out that although cases are rising in B.C., “Certainly the timing (of the second wave) is not great. But this is a pandemic, lot of local businesses. So it’s importthere were, when he spoke to the Pioant that whatever business can be done and you really don’t get much say in when these things come. We are in unneer on Friday, Nov. 27, comparatively during the winter months is done. We precedented times. We are doing the best we can as individuals, and as comfew COVID-19 cases in the Columbia munities. The upper levels of government are doing the best they can to respon- need everybody to be working as much River-Revelstoke riding, saying that aside as possible. There’s never been a better sibly balance the health and safety of individuals with keeping an economy from a mini-outbreak in Revelstoke with time to get out on the local ski hills or going, but they do what they have to do.”

22 active cases, there were nine active get out to the many other winter activcases in Golden, three in Kimberley, and ities we have here. It will be good for Al Miller, Invermere mayor none at all in Invermere and the Columyour mental health, good for you physbia Valley. ically, good for local business, good for “I know people are nervous. Will it affect business?

Miller spoke to the travel advisory that came as part keeping people at work, and good for community spirit Will it affect the economy? I don’t know. The jury’s out on of the provincial health order, which recommended peo- and well-being.” that one. But let’s not press the panic button. We’ve been ple not travel outside of their local health region, or into Continued on page 4

By Steve Hubrecht steve@columbiavalleypioneer.com

The 2021 Calendars are here!

Realty Invermere Where Real Estate Happens ™

Where Real Estate Happens!

SCOTT WALLACE 250-342-5309

BERNIE RAVEN 250-342-7415

GEOFF HILL 250-341-7600

CHRIS RAVEN 250-409-9323

DORAN CAIN 250-342-1629

STEVE HENDERSON 250-341-5128

DAVE JENKINS 250-341-7344

1214 -7th Avenue, Invermere • Ph: 250-341-6044 • realestateinvermere.ca

JAN KLIMEK 250-342-1195

RCMP Report

4 • The Columbia Valley Pioneer

SECURITY • • • •

Est. 2005

Uniformed Guards Mobile Patrol Alarm Response Property Checks

www.valleyhawk.com

Licensed & Insured

250-688-HAWK

Invermere & Surrounding Areas

Submitted by Sgt. Darren Kakuno Detachment Commander Columbia Valley RCMP

Supporting your ideas years. and efforts for

25

This past week, Nov. 23 through Nov. 29, the Columbia Valley RCMP responded to 58 calls for service. The following is a summary of some of the files our officers responded to.

•On Monday, Nov. 23, at about 9:15 p.m. Columbia Valley RCMP received a report of a grey truck failing to maintain its lane and hitting reflective pylons on the side of the road on Westside Road south of Invermere. An officer attended the area and located a grey Dodge Ram pulled off to the side of the road. The driver was asleep in the driver’s seat with the keys in the ignition. While speaking to the driver, the officer could smell an odour of liquor coming from the driver’s breath. The driver complied with a roadside breath demand and blew a “fail”. The driver was issued a 90-day immediate roadside driving prohibition, and his vehicle was impounded for 30-days.

•On Monday, Nov. 23, at 11:20 p.m., police received a report of a male attending an individual’s residence contrary to a court ordered no contact condition. Officers attended and arrested the male for breaching his probation.

The male was held in cells and brought before a judge.

•On Tuesday, Nov. 24, at about 9:40 p.m., an officer conducted a traffic stop with a Ford F250 in Canal Flats to speak to the driver about a heavily damaged windshield. While speaking to the driver, the officer could

Watch for the 25th anniversary edition of

Our Trust magazine in your mailbox, featuring remarkable stories of people and places in the Columbia Basin.

View it now online: ourtrust.org/magazine

N E W S PA P E R

Continued ‘winter tourism’ from page 3

Holiday Deadlines

Clovechok pointed out that the travel advisory is a just that — an advisory — and not part of the actual provincial order (which is enforceable by RCMP), and said it’s important that people remember “that just because your license plate is a different colour doesn’t mean you’ve done anything wrong,” alluding to Columbia Valley second homeowners who happen to be from Alberta (and have red licences plates instead of the blue ones associated with B.C.).

“In the summer months, there was travel going on, but there were no major spikes in COVID-19 in B.C, and almost no cases in the Columbia Valley. That’s because people were following protocols...I strongly suggest we continue to do what we did this summer, continue to take it seriously, and follow the rules that will keep us

Our office will be closed from December 24th, 2020 thru Jan. 3rd, 2021.

Please note our firm advertising deadline: Edition

Booking Deadline

Ad Material Deadline

December 17th

Thursday, December 10th at noon

Monday, December 14th

December 24th

Thursday, December 10th at noon

Monday, December 14th

December 31st

Thursday, December 10th at noon

Monday, December 14th

Wishing everyone a safe and joyous holiday!

The staff of the Pioneer

Prime Rib Sunday Breakfast ~ W�kends Only

9 a.m. til noon

Every Sunday for just

3300

$

/person

Or dinner for 2 with a bottle of wine for

$

89

safe,” said Clovechok. “If you protect yourself individually, we’ll be okay collectively.”

Further on the winter tourism season topic, Clovechok pointed out that the personal health order was set until Monday, Dec. 7 and said, “let’s wait and see what happens. But let’s be vigilant until then.” He did note that as he understands it, most ski resorts in the area have extensive protocols in place in advance of their opening days, added that “being outside is a good place to be.

Obviously, going to apres ski with 100 people at the bar is not going to be happening this year, but being on the hill is a good, healthy way to be socially distant.”

Clovechok commended the region’s local health care worker, extending them a thank you, and adding that “when you think about not wearing a mask, think about them because they are the ones dealing with this.”

Fondue Wednesday Include Fondue feature a bottle includes cheese fondue and charcuterie of wine board for two.

37 00

$

$

65 00

!

5 p.m. - 10 p.m. daily

Scrumptious prime rib dinner. AA prime rib, yorkshire pudding, pan jus, horseradish cream, mashed potatoes and select vegetables.

smell an odour of liquor coming from the driver. The driver confirmed he had recently consumed some alcohol. The driver complied with a roadside breath demand, which confirmed the driver had alcohol in his body.

As the driver had restrictions on his driver’s license not to have any alcohol in his body while driving, he was issued a 12-hour driving suspension and given a warning to have his windshield replaced.

•On Wednesday, Nov. 25, at 7:30 a.m., police responded to a single vehicle collision on Highway 93 in Kootenay National Park.

The driver of a Chevrolet Tahoe failed to negotiate a highway curve and went into the ditch. The driver and lone occupant of the vehicle were not seriously injured.

•On Thursday, Nov. 26, at about 9:00 p.m., an officer was conducting patrols in Invermere when he observed a Chevrolet pickup with a license plate that did not match the truck. The officer conducted a traffic stop and discovered the front and back plates were different.

The driver received violation tickets for no insurance, no driver’s license and wrong number plate. The vehicle was impounded for seven days.

•On Friday, Nov. 27 and Saturday, Nov. 28, East Kootenay Highway Patrol and Columbia Valley RCMP conducted several road checks in the Columbia Valley area. Over the course of two days, officers conducted one impaired by drug investigation, one prohibited driving investigation, issued one 24-hour driving prohibition and three 3-day immediate roadside driving prohibitions for impaired driving.

W NE

Restaurant Open!

December 3, 2020

Wednesdays only!

Weekend Breakfast Saturday and Sunday 9 am – Noon

Visit our Resort website for detailed information and pricing. Located at Copper Point Resort, 760 Cooper Road

Phone: 250-341-4002 • www.copperpointresort.com

December 3, 2020

The Columbia Valley Pioneer • 5

Doug Clovechok MLA Contact me for a copy of my MLA Newsletter!

Doug.Clovechok.MLA@leg.bc.ca

We’re Hiring!

Photo by Camille Aubin

Local officials greet new rent subsidy program with cautious optimism

By Steve Hubrecht steve@columbiavalleypioneer.com The federal government introduced its new rent-assistance program earlier this fall, and the revamped program is being greeted with cautious optimism by local officials.

At the end of September, the Canada Emergency Commercial Rent Assistance (CECRA) program that had been in place since the COVID-19 pandemic began stopped taking new applicants, and not long after the Canada Emergency Rent Subsidy (CERS) — which offers support for both businesses and individuals to help with rent payments during the pandemic — was launched in its stead. The old program was not used as much as expected. It came under fire from critics who charged the small uptake because it was building landlords rather than tenant business owners that needed to apply for the program, and because of what critics called an excessive amount of administrative red tape.

The new program, attempting to address some of these concerns, can be applied directly by business owners and covers up to 65 per cent of rent (or commercial mortgage interest) depending on how much revenue a

business has lost since the pandemic began.

“We welcome the changes made in the Canada Emergency Rent Subsidy in that it now allows those who are eligible to access this support directly. With the seasonality of our region, it is great to see that this program will be in place until at least June 2021,” said Columbia Valley Chamber of Commerce executive director Pete Bourke. “However, our request to government remains, that these programs don’t place excessive administrative burden on our small and medium enterprises (SMEs) within the application process and with auditing. Those businesses who need these supports, need them now. So we ask both the provincial and federal governments to be mindful of this when designing such programs.”

“I think it’s a good start. We don’t want to see business failure. It’s not good for the community to have businesses failing,” said Invermere mayor Al Miller. “This isn’t an every day situation, so if there is some assistance from upper levels of government to help out, that’s a good thing. I like this new program better because the landlord doesn’t have to apply, the businesses can apply for it themselves. Hopefully, it will keep some businesses that have had to close down afloat until they can open their doors again.”

‘Safe restart’ program beneficial for Radium Hot Spring

By Camille Aubin camille@columbiavalleypioneer.com The Village of Radium Hot Spring received a grant of $459,000 from the provincial government. The money comes from a massive federal-provincial program in which local governments were given $425 million for what’s termed a ‘safe restart’.

“British Columbians are depending on government to provide help during the pandemic and build a resilient, secure future for our province,” said Premier John Horgan. “That’s why I’m pleased this new funding will

secure B.C.’s share of the federal government’s $19-billion Safe Restart program and ensure people have access to the critical services they need in their communities.”

How the amount of the grant will be distributed has not been determined yet. During the next council meeting, on Dec. 9, councillors will discuss how the grant could be used. Eligible costs will include addressing revenues shortfalls; facility reopening and operating costs; bylaw enforcement and protective services such as fire protection and police; computer and other electronic technology costs; services for vulnerable persons and other related costs.

Human Resources Advisor

Are you a self-starter with 3 to 5 years HR experience? Do you enjoy diverse work?

Apply by Dec. 6.

ourtrust.org/careers DISTRICT OF INVERMERE

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

CALL FOR VOLUNTEER INVERMERE PUBLIC LIBRARY BOARD MEMBERS Are you an avid reader?

Would you like to see a new library?

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

In accordance with the Library Act, the District of Invermere is inviting applications for membership on the Invermere Public Library Board.

Membership on the Board will be for a two-year term, commencing January, 1st, 2021.

To be eligible, you must be a resident or elector of the District of Invermere.

Members of the Invermere District Council, employees of the District of Invermere and employees of the existing Library Board are not eligible.

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

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

Normal Board activities include: • Assuring that adequate funding is available; • Assessing the needs of the community and advocating for the library; • The development and revision of library policy; • The development and implementation of a vision and strategic plan; • Assisting the Library Director in implementation of the strategic plan in accordance with Policy.

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

Interested persons are invited to submit written applications on or before Deceeber 11th, 2020 at 4 p.m. to: Kindry Luyendyk Corporate Officer Box 339, Invermere, BC V0A 1K0 or to corporateservices@invermere.net

6 • The Columbia Valley Pioneer

PERSPECTIVE

Reconsider our giving

December 3, 2020

Historical Lens

By Camille Aubin camille@columbiavalleypioneer.com Somewhere through the stressful race for presents and endless to do list, we seem to have lost sight of the spirit and magic of Christmas. It’s time to rethink our way of giving in order to regain the holiday spirit.

Holidays can be celebrated in a thousand different ways, regardless of whether or not gifts are exchanged.

Take a long snowshoe walk, prepare a traditional dinner, watch holiday movies, or tell each other stories wrapped up in your blankets. These moments of togetherness are worth more than all the gifts under the Christmas tree.

Reviewing the tradition and refocusing our intentions allows us to completely change our mindset about Christmas. If you wish to give gifts, there are many ways to do so meaningfully.

Some will require a purchase, while others may not; for example, you could volunteer your time, offer to walk the dog, babysit, or offer your skills by giving free oil changes or yoga classes. It depends on you and your talents.

Can we standardize the donation of user gifts? 2020 is almost behind us (‘finally’ many will say)! Maybe it’s time to reconsider all those new and costly purchases, while beloved ‘treasures’ are collecting dust in our own closets.

Take a tour of your local thrift store without any plans or specific intentions. Who knows? Perhaps little ‘treasures’ of a different kind will suddenly make you think of a cherished loved one and fill them with joy. The happiness of receiving a gift is not dependent on the gift’s value. By doing this, you can make a friend and your bank account happy. Being more responsible and thoughtful with your gifts, make you contribute to a greener holiday season.

Think local. COVID-19 has had a devastating effect on local merchants and local artists, who were left with no opportunity to sell their creations. Let’s stroll the streets of our own downtown and enjoy the beautifully decorated boutiques in the spirit of the holidays before we rush out to the big box stores. You will contribute to the economic health of our community!

Why not include a donation to a cause near and dear to our hearts on our list of gifts this year? Once again, COVID-19 has had a significant impact on almost all organizations, preventing many from holding events and fundraising campaigns. Participate in a fundraiser, purchase a traditional meal, or put together a gift bag for the less fortunate. We’ll make a big difference by lending our help in this weirdest of holiday seasons.

Farm land Home of Conrad Kain on the west side of Wilmer.

C2220, 1934, courtesy Windermere District Historical Society

It did not have to be this way!

Dear Editor: Can anyone tell me why in the last nine months, our leaders (or should we call them managers because they aren’t doing much leading) have done nothing but spread fear instead of providing possibilities of hope?

Why, tell us how many people tested positive or died from the virus on an hourly basis, when they could have spent that time focusing on how we can get and stay healthy to better protect ourselves from getting Covid-19?

This is how I think a leader may have addressed the challenging situation we find ourselves in.

“We face a difficult situation. We will put in place measures to protect the most vulnerable, but you need to take personal responsibility for your own safety as well. We have the opportunity to use this virus as an excuse to improve our own health so that our bodies, which have developed ways of fighting off these viruses over many millions of years, can be strong and ready to do so WHEN you come in contact with Covid-19.

Modern science has shown that; eating healthy food, exercise (outdoors if possible), getting 8 hours of sleep, reducing your stress levels, and most importantly, maintaining your social network, all help your body and mind fight off viruses. We also know that vitamins like D, C, Zinc, among others, all help and if you are not getting these by being outside or through your food, then supplements are available.”

Now do not get me wrong. This virus is nothing to mess with, and I DO NOT WANT TO GET IT. But just think how empowering and hopeful the above message would have been. If everyone practiced the selfcare efforts listed above nine months ago, we would be in a far better position to tackle this virus during the winter months. Instead, we hear nothing but what we can’t do and fear. The coming lockdowns will devastate many in our community and is a very disappointing scenario to be in. We live in a first-world country, right?

It really did not have to be this way.

Dale Wilker, Invermere

The Columbia Valley

CANADIAN COMMUNITY NEWSPAPER AWARD 2013

Pioneer

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

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

Phone: 250-341-6299 | Toll Free (866) 496-8047 info@columbiavalleypioneer.com | www.columbiavalleypioneer.com

Amanda Nason

Associate Publisher/ Sales Manager Ext. 102

Camille Aubin Editor Ext. 106

Steve Hubrecht Magazine Editor/ Reporter Ext. 105

Breanne Massey Local Journalism Initiative Reporter Ext. 107

Emily Rawbon Graphic Design Ext. 104

Amanda Murray

Office Administrator/ Sales Ext. 101

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

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

December 3, 2020

LETTERS

There is no need to rush the Athalmer Plan

Lake Windermere foreshore privatization

Dear Editor: There is no need to rush the Athalmer Plan. Let’s take the time to look at alternatives.

Here is one idea.

The November Open House Plan includes significant retail development, which would directly compete with our town’s existing retailers. It consists of a rebuilt Marina with food and beverage service; a Food and Truck Market Plaza accommodating food trucks, markets, seasonal kiosks; a small inn with ground-floor retail including food service and a small scale resort accommodation with retail.

Retail and food services are experiencing extreme difficulties all across North America as shopping patterns are changing, and the current health crisis is only exacerbating this trend. To offer more retail space or food service to compete with the retailers already located in Athalmer or downtown is a poor idea. This is like rearranging the deck chairs on the Titanic!

We already have thousands of square feet of perfectly functional retail space available - just look for the ‘for rent’ signs! The same goes for food services. At last count, there are six existing food retailers in Athalmer and many more downtown. How is it helpful to local businesses to cut the pie into smaller pieces? What is worse is that this plan is seasonal – this means that the very seasons our merchants depend on will have increased competition!

As an alternative idea, why not looking at other B.C. communities. Many recreation-focused towns such as Kelowna and Penticton have experienced similar issues - the expansion of new retail at the expense of a once vibrant downtown. Therefore, many have taken the approach that part of the solution is to improve the existing downtown to help stop the exodus of retail and food services.

Some simple and effective ideas being used are to widen the sidewalks, plant trees, and improve lighting. How about these ideas for our main street? It might result in parallel parking, wider sidewalks, which would help the retailers and restaurants spill over onto the bigger space, additional planted trees to support the ONE big tree we have at Frater Landing and improved lighting so we can have some vibrancy at night. We have done a great job of the streetscape and the trees along Pot Hole Park. Why not extend that downtown?

It seems to me that we could get more bang for the buck if we improve what we already have instead of damaging our downtown even further by fragmenting our retail and food services into another retail precinct.

James Mitchelson. Invermere

Saying goodbye

The Columbia Valley Pioneer • 7

Dear editor: We have witnessed a steady encroachment of construction/destruction on the foreshores around Lake Windermere. With this has come many negative effects of human habitation and activities to these once pristine waters near the Columbia River source. Downstream for 2000 kilometres, the river flows and takes our contaminants to many environments and other people in communities, towns, and cities, until it meets the Pacific Ocean.

There has also been an exponential increase in the extent of powerboating here with noise and inadvertent oil slicks. We see each year more private docks protruding into Lake Windermere, mostly to accommodate powerboats. What used to be public land up to high water levels in most of B.C.’s lakes, rivers, and ocean shores, is now questionable in many places.

Presently there is another application to lease from B.C. Crown Land, more lakefront for a very few individuals private Baltic beach marina (near Windermere). This would be another exclusion to the Public Citizen where access to the lake frontage is continually being privatized for ‘special people’ who are mostly part-time second-home residents. The reality is a small number of rich people are occupying the vast majority of the lakefront, and the much larger group of public people are being squeezed onto diminishing portions of land.

It should be our government’s conscience and responsibility to respect public interest and this environment that is increasingly being exploited by self-interested people. We need to stop any further negative development around, on, and affecting Lake Windermere and the Columbia River, including not accepting this application.

Inaction or apathy generally infers you do not care either way. The future depends on us caring.

You may send your opinion to the Authorization Specialist, Land File 4406146, FLNRORD, Kootenay Boundary Region, 1902 Theatre Road, Cranbrook, BC, V1C7G1. Submissions must be received before Dec. 17, 2020.

Bill Ark, Invermere

COVID-19 is horrible Dear editor:

Before we say goodbye to the beautiful Columbia Valley — to Invermere and Radium — we’d like to say thank you. Thank you for the priceless memories, for the wonderful time that we’ve had here.

For more than 45 years, we have visited the Valley. We have played golf, hiked, relaxed on the beach, and taken long walks with our grandchildren and dogs through the woods behind our home (now a golf course today).

On lazy days we would stroll through downtown Invermere, visiting galleries and lovely boutiques, or we’d go for delicious Cochrane ice cream in Radium. We’d often just sit on our deck taking in the fresh mountain air, watching the stars, looking for the Northern Lights, being thankful for every moment.

We built our vacation home a long time ago in the quiet, small community, The Highlands. Our everyday visitors were the deer. They loved to eat apples from our trees, and they loved eating my flowers...

We had wonderful neighbours. We’d like to thank them for giving us help whenever we needed, and for always being kind and generous. Special thanks to Donna & Don T, Eva & Wolfgang, and Howie and his wife, who always offered smiles and hugs.

We loved the joy and the delicious food at Invermere’s many restaurants. Our favourites were the Black Forest (thank you Dragica and staff) and the Old Salzburg (thank you Franz). Our thanks also go to the Windermere and Radium golf courses, where our love of playing golf started.

Thank you as well to the professional and very friendly staff at the hospital who took care of us in a time of need. There are more wonderful people than we could ever thank in this valley, we want to thank everyone who helped us have a wonderful time.

We’ll always miss this quiet mountain paradise and the feelings of love, joy, and comfort that it inspired in us. Invermere will always be an irreplaceable part of who we are. We’re leaving with big, happy, and thankful smiles. Thank you.

I am writing to express shock and dismay at the folks who don’t seem to grasp that COVID-19 is a health issue, not a political issue. It isn’t a conspiracy hatched by politicians seeking to control us, or a set of harsh and unfair restrictions imposed on us by medical professionals. It’s a virus that can take your life and the lives of the people you love, plain and simple. Are some politicians doing a bad job of handling the crisis? Absolutely, but keep in mind that this isn’t just your first pandemic; it’s their first one too.

I am appalled by the people arguing on Facebook that the mandatory wearing of a mask violates their “rights and freedoms.” Someone needs to tell them that there is no such thing as a natural right or natural freedom. The rights and freedoms we all enjoy are those we grant to each other, based on what kind of community we want to live in. You do not have the “right” to enter a home, a place of business, or a public building unmasked unless the homeowner, the business owner, and the taxpayers who own that building have granted you that right. You never had the “freedom” to get COVID-19 and then inflict it on others. I am horrified by the people who have no respect for the food store clerks and frontline health care workers who are on the job not because they want to be, but because the law says they have to be. Find a mirror and take a hard look at yourselves.

COVID-19 is horrible. We’ve all been inconvenienced by it. We hate it equally, and we can’t wait for it to be over. In the meantime, the young people whining because they’ve lost their “right” to party, and people who think it’s all a hoax should let my niece tour them through the full-to-capacity ICU. They can see for themselves what a person dying of COVID-19 at age 40 looks like. They can see what an exhausted health care worker looks like.

Finally, I do think anyone should be allowed to decline the vaccine on any grounds whatsoever. Just be aware that there’s a movement afoot to ensure that such people pay every cent out of pocket for the medical treatment they’ll need to beat the virus. We don’t mind you passing on the vaccine. Just don’t expect us to pick up your tab.

Marija & Steve Buconjic, Calgary

Sandra Kelly, Invermere

Dear Editor:

8 • The Columbia Valley Pioneer

December 3, 2020

Ski resorts prepare for opening day Travel advisory asking people to ski local could, if extended, impact Columbia Valley ski hills

By Steve Hubrecht steve@columbiavalleypioneer.com The Columbia Valley’s ski resort are readying for their opening days even as a second wave of the COVID-19 pandemic looms over B.C., and even as provincial officials announced restrictions that, if extended beyond their deadline in a few days time, could impact the winter tourism season here in the Columbia Valley.

As cases spiked in B.C. in November, provincial health officer Dr. Bonnie Henry made a provincial health order outlining new restrictions, and provincial officials simultaneously announced a travel advisory asking people not to travel in or out of B.C., or indeed outside their local health region, for anything but essential reasons.

The advisory specifically targeted mountains sports and asked people to ski at their local ski hills, rather than travelling for mountains sports. The advisory, as well as the restrictions contained in the provincial order, were set only until Dec. 7, which is before Panorama Mountain Resort and Fairmont Hot Springs Resort (FHSR) ski hill’s opening days. But even before the travel advisory, both resorts had long since been implementing measure and protocols in preparation for the pandemic ski season.

“From a business perspective, we want to make sure we are conducting our business in the safest manner possible,” FHSR chief executive officer Vivek Sharma told the Pioneer, outlining that FHSR has put numerous measures and protocols in place at both the resort and the ski hill. “As a business, we are doing everything we can.”

For instance, the measures include required face coverings in all indoor public areas, and relieving ‘crushed’ space in the ski hill’s day lodge and chalet by spreading out tables, opening up extra seating in different locations and setting up a warming tent outside. The ski hill’s triple chairlift will only be loading people from the same group, and there will be extensive signage reminding people to keep their social distance.

“Tip to tip, with skis, you already almost have two

metres,” said Sharma. “But we want to make sure people are not congregating side to side.”

FHSR currently has two time slots open for the public to visit the hot pools, and FHSR ski hill season pass holders will be able to use the hot pools during those time slots. However, daily lift tickets will not include access to the hot pools as they normally do, said Sharma, because the hot pools simply don’t have the capacity to accommodate that many people while maintaining social distance protocols.

Sharma said that obviously, FHSR is hoping the travel advisory restrictions will not be extended, as although the ski hill is quite popular with local skiers and riders, the resort needs visiting skiers. “We have a pretty strong local base of skiers, but we all know the traditional tourism industry can’t be supported just by locals.

It’s just not possible,” he said.

In a worst-case scenario, if the orders and File photo travel advisory are extended for weeks or even months, FHSR probably would not shut down its ski hill, said Sharma, because “season pass holders have already bought into the program.”

Sharma pointed out that, in the current COVID-19 situation, skiing is one of the safest winter activities, given how naturally distant skiers and riders are from each other on the hill, and how many skiers already wear face coverings. He concurred that it might even be possible that people who usually pursue other winter activities might turn to skiing this winter instead, since these activities do not lend themselves as well to socially distancing. “There may also be quite a lot of people not able to go south for vacations this year, and they may re-engage with the Canadian winter experience,” said Sharma.

Panorama Mountain Resort declined to comment specifically on the potential effect of the travel advisory, noting that the restrictions are set to expire before the opening day and saying it would be premature to comment on what is in place right now.

“The health and safety of our community is our highest priority, and we are following all B.C. orders and guidelines. As we continue to prepare the resort for our planned opening on Dec. 11, the team is working on contingencies for all possible scenarios,” said Panorama president and chief executive officer Steve Paccagnan in a statement. “Since the spring, our people have worked incredibly hard to create an environment, both on the mountain and in the resort village, where everyone can feel safe and really enjoy their time outside. We tested our safety protocols this summer with real success, and we’ve worked closely with resorts and industry bodies, here and in the Southern Hemisphere, to adapt our winter operation to meet the unique challenges of the winter ahead...

We know it won’t always be easy, but we are lucky to live in this beautiful place. I am really thankful for the amazing team here and the supportive community around us.”

Among the measures, Panorama is taking are mandatory face masks in all public indoor areas and mandatory face coverings (masks, neck warmers, balaclavas or buffs) in specific outdoor space (including chairlifts), and reducing capacity at virtually all resort venues to allow for greater physical distancing and to cap seating at no more than six people per table (including in the Great Hall as well as in the hill’s mountain huts: Summit Hut, the Mile One Hut and the Elkhorn Cabin). Panorama’s lift corrals will be organized differently to help ensure physical distancing. On busy days skiers and riders will be able to load chairs with others who are not part of their bubble, in order to keep skiers and riders moving, keeping in mind that face coverings are mandatory. If skiers are not comfortable with this, they should speak to a lift attendant, and the resort will arrange more distance on the chair. The resort is also purchasing a hexadome to cover the Great Hall patio to provide additional sheltered seating.

File photo

Is your business a member of the CV Chamber yet?

Save money, feel the support and join hundreds of others in your community that are working together for a prosperous future!

Contact us to find out how we can serve you and your business…membership@cvchamber.ca

Shop Local

Dine Local

Stay Local

valleystrong.ca

December 3, 2020

The Columbia Valley Pioneer • 9

YOUR LOCAL GROCER

OUR PRICES VALID: Dec. 3- Dec. 16 ALL OFFERS SUBJECT TO INVENTORY AVAILABILITY

BUBLY SPARKILING WATER

CO-OP POTATO CHIPS REGULAR OR KETTLE

• ASSORTED FLAVORS W O W!

• ASSORTED FLAVORS

355 ml 12 cans

180-200 g

454 g

$1.59

$3.99 NATURE VALLEY GRANOLA BARS

UNICO PASTAS • ASSORTED

175 g

454 g

$1.99

$1.69 PUREX ULTRA TOILET PAPER

• ASSORTED

12 rolls

$1.25

CO-OP BUTTER

MCCAIN HASHBROWNS

454 g

$10.99 BACON OLYMEL

900 g

$3.99

375 g

$2.99

FOUND IN-STORE AT FAIRMONTMOUNTAINSIDE MARKET

CROWN ROYAL

FRESH BAKED WHITE OR WHOLE WHEAT BREAD

$4.99

FOUND NEXT TO RADIUM MOUNTAINSIDE AT RADIUM LIQUOR STORE OPEN 9AM-11PM

SMIRNOFF

BUDWEISER

• VODKA

750 ml

$19.99

6 cans

$7.99

750 ml

$17.99

4992 FAIRMONT FRONTAGE ROAD • (250) 345-0045

7546 MAIN STREET EAST RADIUM • 250-347-9600

OPEN 8:00 AM – 9:00 PM EVERY DAY

OPEN 8:00 AM – 9:00 PM EVERY DAY

10 • The Columbia Valley Pioneer

December 3, 2020

COVID-19 is spreading in the Valley Submitted by Dr. Gareth Mannheimer Dr. Gareth Mannheimer, Chief of Staff of Invermere, District Hospital and local family physician, discusses the recent surge in COVID-19 cases, virus science, and reminds the community of current provincial restrictions.

Hello again. It’s been a while since I provided an update to everyone. Unfortunately, despite reassuring numbers over the summer, we have entered another challenging period with the second wave of COVID-19. I know this is putting a tremendous strain on our lives, our livelihoods and our peace of mind. Like all of you, I had sincerely hoped we would have been able to contain the spread by now. Instead, we find ourselves watching surging new daily cases, and deaths in B.C., and our beautiful Columbia Valley is, unfortunately, not unaffected. Consequently, I thought I might update you on where we are, what we can do to reduce the spread of this awful virus and protect ourselves through coordinated individual and community action to flatten the curve – again!

For more details, see page 17.

Sponsored content

COMMUNITY GREENHOUSE

A Groundswell of appreciation The Groundswell Network Society would like to thank our volunteers, members, staff, supporting organizations and businesses during 2020. Our wonderful members rented raised gardens, became volunteers, board members, bought plants/produce, donated funds/materials attended talks/tours and cheered us on! Our amazing volunteers worked digging gardens, weeding, building new beds, fixing fences, watering, cleaning up transplanting, working at events, harvesting and delivering produce. Special thanks to Coordinators Anne Rose, Greenhouse and Sandra Howard, Mt Nelson Community Gardens, and our two staff members Jessica Pemberton who started and nurtured all our plants in the greenhouse and Melissa Maslany helped in the greenhouse and with our Apple Rescue program.

With COVID Pandemic restrictions, we didn’t offer “You Pick it” so we created a market garden and luckily Hopkins Harvest and From Scratch bought all the produce we could grow. Other great partners: Chief Training at David Thompson Secondary School, during our Apple Rescue program we worked with Wild BC and Wildsight and three beautifully crafted benches from

the Discovery Trades Program at the College of the Rockies.

Thanks to our amazing Sponsors who took on ensuring the development of our bigger projects: • District of Invermere supported our operation, and creation of the new Mt Nelson Community Gardens.

• Columbia Basin Trust funded Solar panels, new fans, and a new gasket for our greenhouse venting system.

• Community Initiatives granting program and Farm Credit Canada AgriSpirit both contributed funding for new solar panel and kitchen upgrade.

• The Columbia Valley Community Foundation helped fund Education and Outreach.

• BC Hydro funded online videos of workshops and tours • Columbia Valley Food and Farm supported the new Mt Nelson Community Garden.

To all those, including our board members, who supported us; we are so thankful for everything that you have done for Groundswell in this challenging year and wish you a peaceful and safe winter season.

COVID-19 has proven to be relentless despite myths to the contrary I’m not a politician nor a policymaker. I’m not a public health official nor a COVID-19 scientist. However, I am a front-line physician, who along with all my other medical and health care colleagues have been very actively involved in the battle against COVID-19 since early March. We have been learning and adapting to try and minimize spread and to improve the quality of care and outcomes.

We care about our community, care about you and your health.

Science has shown us COVID-19 is relentless, and because it’s a novel virus, it makes everyone susceptible. It’s called a novel because we have never seen it before.

The fact is that COVID-19 is in virtually every part of B.C. It is easily transmitted and is capable of causing severe illness.

This isn’t a myth! The research suggests that up to 80% of those with COVID-19

have no to mild symptoms, and because they don’t know they are infected, they have no reason to get tested.

To put this into context, on average, an adult can have up to three colds a year and depending on the severity of the flu season, 5%-10% may get the flu. Schoolage children and teenagers may suffer from six or more colds a year, and 20% to 30% may get the flu. This means that every day there are people in our community, in our homes or social network that might be suffering from something that is not distinguishable from mild COVID-19 until tested. But, here is the kicker. Those who have it don’t know they are spreading it! This is why we are struggling so hard to control the spread of COVID-19. This creates a vicious circle, which in turn limits our ability to isolate them and to determine who they may have infected. For the more vulnerable in our community, like seniors and those with compromised immune systems – well, it becomes the dynamic that drives and places the risk on lives, overwhelms our health care resources, services, personnel and hospitals. The great irony is if we don’t control transmission through limiting community spread by implementing masking and distancing, we won’t see it coming until we test and pick up the new cases. In our Columbia Valley, we need to be focused on limiting the spread of COVID-19 by paying close attention to colds and flu as well, because they all spread the same way. Be sure to get your flu shot as a way to help minimize risk. If you aren’t feeling well, contact us and always get tested regardless of how mild your symptoms are just to be sure.

COVID-19 doesn’t care if your beliefs are right or left, whether you like to follow the rules or value freedom, or if your priorities are individual or community-centric. It’s a killer for some and debilitating for others. As I have said before, COVID-19 has the ability to overwhelm our healthcare centres and services. It also creates other significant impacts to health and well-being.

Continued on page 11

La Galeria II A Unique Shopping Experience

Come and shop safely with us in our 2,000 sq. ft store.

OPEN DAILY!

Slippers to sleepwear.

We have you covered!

Fairmont Plaza, 5 5019 Fairmont Resort Rd. cbarzilay@hotmail.com • 250-345-6807

December 3, 2020

The Columbia Valley Pioneer • 11

Continued ‘COVID-19 is spreading’ from page 10 It has delayed essential treatment and services for those that need it most in surgery, cancer care and other specialty medical services. COVID-19’s ability to disrupt our lives and our health care system is unparalleled. Our focus as a community must be to minimize serious illness and deaths. We must try and do so with minimal disruption to our society while maintaining our day to day activities as much as possible. This is unfortunately easier said than done. We all have a part to play.

To save lives, we need to maintain trust and confidence in the science of COVID-19 as it is developed.

Our learning curve has been steep and fast. Our learnings are from shared surveillance globally and communication with policymakers. The virus has gone through different phases over the past eight months, with slightly different behaviors along the way. This doesn’t mean the science was wrong, it means it’s evolving as the virus does. What I do believe is that we always strive to be accurate based on what we know, and recommendations are always made with everyone’s safety and well-being as a priority. But, we should know that the debate we have is based on solid scientific evidence, not political rhetoric or social media hysteria. Whether you like it or not, believe it or not, care about it or not, the current phase of COVID-19 is primarily spread by contact to a local case or cluster, and less generalized community spread. This is why our community is being told to wear masks, avoid crowded public places and keep social gatherings small. We know following medical guidelines as informed by science gives us our greatest chance to flatten the curve of this second wave.

We have also learned a few other important things: The major source of current spread is person-to-person via respiratory droplets usually through close prolonged contact. This is most efficient in crowded, indoor and uncontrolled settings. This includes family gatherings, getting together with friends and attending events with others and especially those you don’t know.

Contaminated surfaces appear to be a less common source of transmission.

Most children appear to acquire this virus within their households with an adult as the most common source. Children are not currently the drivers of infection in their families or communities.

Transmission in schools is uncommon and children do not tend to spread the infection widely.

Our social framework is extremely complex and variable. Because of this, measuring and communicating risk is difficult and making recommendations that are proportionate to these risks is even harder to do. We know there are secondary unintended consequences of any measures, including the current drug overdose rate, worsening mental health in children, adults and seniors, impaired learning and social repercussions for our children and financial difficulty, to name only a few. Health care leaders, politicians, government officials, and public health experts are doing their best to balance individual risk with greater population risk. Our leaders are acting based on extensively considered medical scientific research with current provincial data to implement interventions and regulations that are specific and time limited. At face value, these measures and regulations can appear harsh. I know this can be deeply frustrating, but I assure you the time taken to consider and balance these risks is exhaustive. It’s a tough job.

Overall, B.C. is doing relatively well, but we are seeing a troubling surge in infections. As you can see from the following chart, there has been a significant increase in active daily cases in our region. The increase started in mid-to-late October and has continued to ramp up through November. Many have attributed this increase to close social gatherings, COVID-related fatigue and a failure to apply best practices.

Source: BC CDC Interior Health Region Speaking to our community members, it has become apparent that there is a perceived disconnect between what is being portrayed in the media versus what is happening locally. I suspect there are many reasons for this.

Some of this disconnect is related to access to our local data and the situation here in our Columbia Valley. What is undeniable is that we have not escaped the impact of COVID-19. Our Columbia Valley is categorized for data collection as the East Kootenays, and we report up into the Interior Heath region for data collection. As of Nov. 30, 47 new cases are resulting in 399 active cases in the Interior Health region. In total, we have seen 1,538 cases and three confirmed deaths in the Interior Health region.

As of Nov. 19, in the East Kootenay’s, we had 68 reported cases in total and in the two weeks ending Nov. 19, we added 22 cases. The reality is COVID-19 is in the Valley and spreading.

As you can see from this next chart, COVID-19 has touched the lives of those under the age of 10 and over the age of 90 and everyone in between. It affects males and females equally.

The second wave is here The most obvious problem is simple: our confirmed infection numbers are headed in the wrong direction. We have to seriously address these growing new case rates because hospitalizations are increasing, as are deaths and as these rates increase, so do the restrictions to curb them.

B.C. has adopted a very balanced approach in comparison to other provinces and countries, but many still feel this infringes on their personal liberties. Some good news is our ability and accessibility to testing has improved significantly and, our efforts to get those individuals who have been in contact with test positive cases into self-isolation immediately, has improved through contact tracing. These tools will help, but we need to immediately and assertively make some hard choices. I urge you all to garnish the energy to redouble your efforts and follow medical guidelines and provincial regulations – individually and collectively. If we don’t, we could be facing a series of hard choices about where to deploy resources to respond to an overwhelmed healthcare system and a hurting economy. It’s a choice none of us wants to make.

In conclusion, knowing what you need to do now is tough, and it’s complicated. But we need to really consider and think about risk and how best to manage it.

Understanding risk in terms of different contexts can be helpful. It’s different if you consider our risk as a community vs your risk as an individual or family. It’s hard to feel like your personal freedoms are being infringed when to you there is no evidence of this “catastrophic virus” in the streets around you, but I assure you, COVID-19 is real, it’s here, and it’s dangerous. If we can be patient, thoughtful and kind, we will be fine. Vaccines are on the horizon, and we need to be vigilant until these are approved and made available. In the meantime, we need to spend just a little more time thinking about others. Please consider our elderly, frail and vulnerable neighbours who are scared, our healthcare and essential workers who are exhausted, and our children who need to be allowed to be schooled, protected and socialised for their health. I know we can do this if we stay calm and do it together…

Valley Strong.

12 • The Columbia Valley Pioneer

December 3, 2020

THANK YOU! Wildsight Invermere thanks all the businesses and individuals that made the 7th Annual Wild & Scenic Film Festival a success.

CBT sets priorities for next few years

We couldn’t be together under one roof, but community spirit was VALLEY STRONG!

VISIONARY SPONSOR thinkBright Homes

CATALYST SPONSORS Basecamp Innovations Columbia Basin Trust Columbia Valley Law Invermere Optometry

LEADER SPONSORS Cleanline Automotive Copper City Dental Kootenay Mountain Culture Peppi’s

By Steve Hubrecht steve@columbiavalleypioneer.com

SUPPORTERS • All the people who added a donation to their ticket price ❤ • Peak Design Bags • Plain of 6 Glaciers Teahouse • Rocky River Grille • Rocky Mountain Books • Talus Lodge • TEA etc • Valley Zipline Adventures • Wild Mountain Chocolate

Wildsight.ca/Invermere

HOLIDAY SPIRIT KNOW-HOW

From November 12th to December 31st, 2020

150 Industrial Road #2, Invermere 250-342-4400 STARTING AT

HAND SANITIZER 250 mL $6.99 GJO 25024HPG

6

-45% 99

143

Liquid 3.78 L $29.99 RCO 12-214X52

27199

Gel, 3.78 L $32.99 RCO 12-204

JUMP STARTER

15,000 mAh, 500 A USE PWRPROX15K

Gel, 473 mL $8.99 RCO 12-200

-40% 99

19

3499

CAR MAT SET 4 pieces KLT 18520

-40% 99

34

6299

ROADSIDE EMERGENCY KIT 50 pieces EFA FAC706

COUPON Bring in this coupon to receive one FREE bottle of RainX with purchase of $50 or more. 1 per customer.

Invermere NAPA store only.

Coupon expires December 31st, 2020.

Open 7 Days a Week Napacanada.com

now at NAPA

now at NAPA

700 mL $11.99 GJO 70012HPGR

99

The Columbia Basin Trust (CBT) released its strategic priorities for the next few years earlier this fall.

In the management plan outlining the trust’s priorities, CBT chair Jocelyn Carver and chief executive officer and president Johnny Strilaeff acknowledge that 2020 has been a difficult year, with the global COVID-19 pandemic throwing many plans awry, but emphasized that the trust will continue its work.

The trust’s six strategic priorities are community well-being, ecosystem enhancement, high-speed connectivity, housing, local food production and access, and business renewal support.

The CBT outlined that as part of its support for business renewal, it is seeking to help businesses in the Canadian parts of the Columbia Basin (which includes the Columbia Valley) survive and adapt to the changes brought about by COVID-19, help businesses retain staff, and if possible, create new jobs, increase local resident’s access to affordable childcare (to help enable employment), and increase residents’ employment training opportunities.

For the high-speed connectivity prior-

ity, the trust is aiming to expand fibre optic networks in the Columbia Basin, and increase the use of the existing network.

In terms of the housing priority, the CBT wants to increase energy efficiency in new and upgraded housing, and to increase the number of new affordable rental units. For the local food production and access priority, the trust hopes to explore value-added food processing, increase market access for local food, support climate resilience strategies for local food production, and reduce food waste.

As part of the ecosystem enhancement priority, the CBT lists outcomes including preventing and reducing invasive species, as well as increasing terrestrial and aquatic habitats restored, conserved or enhanced.

Outcomes listed for the community well-being priority include helping communities develop project ideas and secure funding, making sure communities have access to credible information and education on climate change and the natural environment, making sure the non-profit sector meets community needs, helping vulnerable and potentially vulnerable populations access supports, engaging and connect youth, and ensuring communities have diverse arts, cultural and heritage opportunities.

Applications for assistance in the 2020 season are now available Applications must be completed and received no later than December 8, 2020. They can be picked up and dropped off at Family Dynamix, Ministry of Children & Families, the Canal Flats’ Food Bank, Akisqnuk and Shuswap band offices, or mailed to: Christmas Bureau of the Columbia Valley, Box 2595, Invermere, BC V0A 1K0 FIND US ON FACEBOOK WEBSITE COMING SOON!

December 3, 2020

The Columbia Valley Pioneer • 13

Local artists must get creative to sell this year

By Camille Aubin camille@columbiavalleypioneer.com Local artists wishing to sell their creations as Christmas gifts this year may need to find different ways of doing it. The annual Magic of Christmas Craft & Artisan Fair was recently cancelled due to COVID-19 restrictions.

Instead of standing idly by and waiting until next year, many of them have found solutions online, through social networks or by pushing their sense of entrepreneurship by developing their own website. “When I found out that the Christmas market was cancelled, I realized that the best solution would be to have my own Christmas market online, via my website”, said Japhy Hunt, a local artist.

Japhy Hunt has been drawing for as long as he can remember. The first art show he had was at the age of nine. After that, he participated in six gallery shows at Pynelogs Art Gallery and Black Star Studios collectively, over the following seven years. “Having spaces like that, which are willing to showcase art (regardless of the artist’s age) has

definitely been amongst my favourite things about growing up and creating in Invermere,” said Hunt. These days his artwork is a mix of dark humour and vintage themes, ranging in mediums from ink drawings and paintings to miniature clay sculptures.

Even if Hunt never had the chance to participate in the Magic of Christmas Craft & Artisan Fair before, he was looking forward to the in-person atmosphere of the market. “It made me realize how, left to our own devices, small businesses and local artisans (without a storefront) have to rely on their media abilities. Instagram is good for that, and I think that’s where I see the most engagement, even with local creators.”

Continued on page 17

No long waits!

Please welcome…

DR. KATELYN COLWELL We are happy to introduce Dr. Katelyn Colwell to the Life Path team. Colwell knew from an early age that she wanted to be a dentist. She was mentored by her aunt, who was also her family dentist growing up. Colwell completed her Bachelor of Health Sciences Honours degree at McMaster University in Hamilton, Ontario, and graduated from Schulich School of Dentistry at Western University in London, Ontario.

During undergrad and dental school, Colwell spent four of her summers tree planting in both British Columbia and Ontario. She also spent a winter season snowboarding in Niseko, Japan. These experiences drove her to the mountains to pursue her dental career.

Dr. Colwell participated in multiple externship programs in both Canada and the United States – receiving unique learning experiences in oral maxillofacial surgery, prosthodontics, and with rural paediatric populations.

“Thank you for choosing me to be your dentist.

I hope to earn your trust by providing the highest quality care, specific to your needs and desires.

I am looking forward to getting to know you and your family, and providing a welcoming and comforting dental experience.”

DR. MICHAEL MARIANOVSKI We are happy to introduce Dr. Michael Marianovski to the Life Path team.

Marianovski attended York University for his undergraduate and Master’s education. He then received his Doctor of Dental Surgery Degree (DDS) from the Schulich School of Medicine & Dentistry at the University of Western Ontario.

Dr. Marianovski is passionate about dentistry and has been pursuing continuing education and externships throughout his career. He has also participated in mission trips where he provided emergency dental care to underprivileged populations.

Originally from Russia, he grew up in Israel before moving to Ontario as a teenager. Marianovski recently moved to Invermere to pursue his outdoor passions of rock climbing, snowboarding, hiking and mountain biking.

“I strive to provide comprehensive patient-centred care. I strongly believe in educating my patients and allowing them to make informed decisions about their dental care. I enjoy all aspects of family dentistry with a focus on Oral Surgery, Prosthodontics and Paediatrics. I am excited to get to know the people of the Columbia Valley and become a part of the community.”

ON ROUTE 93 • 778 526 5177

14 • The Columbia Valley Pioneer

December 3, 2020

Indigenous consultant expands reach

By Breanne Massey Local Journalism Initiative Reporter An Indigenous entrepreneur from the Columbia Valley has climbed mountains with her Lower Mainland businesses.

Ktunaxa citizen Beverley O’Neil, who owns O’Neil Marketing and Consulting and Numa Communications Ltd., serves Indigenous clients with facilitation, marketing and design as well as communications from her home in Vancouver.

She has more than 25 years of experience working in community economic development for the Ktunaxa Nation Council (KNC) and running her now Vancouver-based businesses.

In addition to working with all nations as a consultant, O’Neil regularly performs Indigenous standup comedy routines — a skill, she feels, is not that different

from working as a consultant.

“There’s a lot of humility in learning how to do standup comedy. Comedy is not about making people laugh at the dinner table,” she said. “It’s about seeing things from a different perspective. Taking ideas and crafting them so people can see things differently. It’s not really that diverse from what I do, it’s just a different platform. It’s no different than strategic planning.”

She added that now more than ever, during the COVID-19 pandemic, it’s important to have a sense of humour both at work and at home.

“With design, you’re taking things and presenting it so it’s attractive enough to capture someone’s attention.

In journalism, you’re transcribing a message in a way that the originator may not be able to convey to others. Why not through a little bit of humour in there,” asked O’Neil.

“It helps to set the stage… I think you need to humanize things, so people can feel connected. What we’re really

seeing with COVID-19 is that human-connection is so important.”

She encourages the community to take lots of breaks during the pandemic and focus on self-care when possible.

In spite of her busy schedule with Indigenous Tourism BC, Aboriginal Employment and Training Society, as well as for Indigenous societies and non-profit organizations, or government — O’Neil takes the time to work hard and play hard.

“Comedy is usually done in the evenings before bed, what a great way to finish your day,” she explained with a chuckle, indicating many of her bits are focused around her age. “My most attractive trait is that I can read cursive.”

To learn more about O’Neil, please visit designingnations.com.

Virtual Edition

Individual programs: $15 USD

@epicadventuresindoors

Available Dec. 1, 2020 - October 21, 2021 Tickets available online at tobycreeknordic.ca

(3-day rental period)

Bundle (2 programs): $28 USD (14-day rental period)

All proceeds go to support The Whiteway and The Toby Creek Nordic Ski Club.

Join us at our 2020 Zoom AGM Monday, December 7th at 7 pm.

Learn about our new Local Food Branding Initiative and our plans for the Local Food Guide and a new Market Trail Map next year, the nomination of new board members. WE ARE LOOKING FOR A VICE-CHAIR and DIRECTORS- and lots more!

Bonus... all attendees will have their names entered in a draw for a Columbia Valley Local Food Basket, but you must register!

Please drop us a line at cvfoodandfarm@gmail.com to register and we will send you the Zoom link.

Hope to “see” you next week!

Myth: Change your ads all the time.

Readers get tired of the same thing.

Reality: Develop a good campaign, or theme for your ads. Stick with that one campaign, and only make small changes of headlines or details.

N E W S PA P E R

Call Amanda Nason at 250-341-6299 ext. 102 to find out more. Or visit our office at 8, 1008 8th Ave. Invermere, B.C.

www.columbiavalleypioneer.com • info@columbiavalleypioneer.com

December 3, 2020

Tamarack Centre hosts Skinku¢ Treasures

By Breanne Massey Local Journalism Initiative Reporter With a push for shoppers to support small businesses this winter, the Ktunaxa Nation Council (KNC) is eager to announce that Skinku¢ Treasures will be selling culturally distinctive gifts nearby.

On Saturday, Nov. 7, Skinku¢ Treasures opened the doors to their Tamarack Centre location in Cranbrook to sell books, jewelry, purses, moccasins, giftware and beading supplies.

“Skinku¢ is Ktunaxa for ‘coyote,’” said Jared Teneese, Skinku¢ Treasures spokesperson in a recent press release, noting more stock arrives each day.

“Skinku¢ is an important figure for us, and a fitting character for gifts to surprise and delight family and friends.”

The decision to relocate from St. Eugene Golf Course Casino and the KNC Government Building at the Central School in Cranbrook came after the novel Coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic shuttered both locations temporarily.

“We have all these wonderful suppliers, including Ktunaxa and other Indigenous artisans. Their work is beautiful and well-crafted. And all of a sudden, we didn’t have a way to feature their goods in a retail space,” said Teneese. “So we made the decision to open up a location in the Tamarack Centre, where we are following strict COVID-19 protocols.”

Profits from the shop are expected to support language revitalization efforts at the KNC through its traditional knowledge and language sector.

“The silver lining is we will soon have even more Ktunaxa-made products than ever before, as well as lots of authentic items from other Indigenous artisans and companies,” said Teneese.

The KNC encourages all nations to drop-in to Skinku¢ Treasures when visiting the Tamarack Centre this winter.

Teneese and his sales team are available to help you shop safely and to answer any questions shoppers may have for the community.

Navigating COVID-19 throughout IH

Submitted by Interior Health Interior Health reminds anyone experiencing symptoms of COVID-19 of supports in place in our communities: To book a COVID-19 test book online or call 1-877-740-7747; Visit IH’s testing information page for testing centre locations and hours; For emergencies, call 911 and go to the nearest emergency department Testing is available for anyone experiencing COVID-19 symptoms. If you are unsure of your symptoms, you can take the COVID-19 online assessment or call 811 to speak to HealthLinkBC for health information or advice.

Anyone who tests positive for COVID-19 will be contacted by public health directly by phone. If you receive

a positive test result by text message, you will be contacted by public health and we ask that you wait for that call.

Anyone having difficulty breathing, or struggling from extreme symptoms, should call 911 or go to an emergency department.

After testing positive for COVID-19, you will be supported by public health to stay at home and isolate for a minimum ten days after onset of symptoms.

Most people can manage their symptoms at home while mild to moderate cold or flu-like symptoms can be supported by a family doctor, a local urgent primary care centre, or a walk-in clinic. If you are self-isolating, you must take measures to stay isolated from others within your household.

Friday Shopping in Fairmont

The Columbia Valley Pioneer • 15

755-13th Street, Invermere, BC (250) 342•0548

5

SAT, DEC

Fill our sleigh with toys and help bring joy to kids in our community

10% *

WILL BE DONATED TO Christmas Bureau

Working hand in hand to give back to local communities coast to coast

December 7th, 11 am - 7 pm Enter to win prize packs from participating merchants.

Sponsored by…

1 Prize st

One-night stay at Fairmont Hot Springs Resort and 2 lift tickets.

*Excludes lottery, tobacco, gift cards phone cards, and any prepaid cards.

16 • The Columbia Valley Pioneer

December 3, 2020

Annual Feed the Town event returns

By Camille Aubin camille@columbiavalleypioneer.com The holiday season is quickly approaching, and the Copper Point Golf Club will once again be doing its part to make sure that everyone in the Columbia Valley has a holiday meal, through its 17th annual Feed the Town event.

Taking place at Copper Point Golf Club on Sunday, Dec. 6, from noon until 7 p.m., Feed the Town is inviting residents to attend and, if possible, to bring a donation for the Columbia Valley Food Bank with them. “As in the past, a non-perishable food item or cash donation is greatly appreciated in support of our Local Food Bank,” said Copper Point Golf Club general manager Brian Schaal.

With the COVID-19 pandemic, this year’s event will be a bit different than usual.

Feed the Town won’t involve breaking bread altogether, it will instead entail a drive-th-

ru out front of the Copper Point clubhouse. Reservations are not required. The prepackaged meal will consist of the usual holiday favourites; turkey, ham, vegetables, mashed potatoes, stuffing, cranberry sauce, and gravy.

Photo by Chelsea Francis on Unsplash

DISTRICT OF INVERMERE

DISTRICT OF INVERMERE

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

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

NOTICE OF INTENT – PUBLIC HEARING

NOTICE OF INTENT – PUBLIC HEARING

Official Community Plan Bylaw Amendment No. 1591, 2020 and, Zoning Bylaw Amendment No.1592, 2020

Official Community Plan Bylaw Amendment No. 1594, 2020 and, Zoning Bylaw Amendment No.1595, 2020

LOT 1, DISTRICT LOT 1092, KOOTENAY DISTRICT PLAN 4727 PID: 012-961-931 Address : 1610 – 13th Avenue

Lot 2, DL 1092, KD Plan NEP74773 except Plans NEP74967 and NEP76431.

PID: 025-831-305 Address : 2144-13th Avenue

NOTICE is given of a Public Hearing to be held via Zoom Conference at 6:00 pm on Tuesday, December 15th 2020 addressing the application to amend Official Community Plan Bylaw No. 1495, 2015 and Zoning Bylaw No.1145, 2002. Pre-registration to attend the Zoom Conference is required and can be arranged by contacting the District of Invermere front line service counter at 250-342-9281.

NOTICE is given of a Public Hearing to be held via Zoom Conference at 7:00 pm on Tuesday, December 15th 2020 addressing the application to amend Official Community Plan Bylaw No. 1495, 2015 and Zoning Bylaw No.1145, 2002. Pre-registration to attend the Zoom Conference is required and can be arranged by contacting the District of Invermere front line service counter at 250-342-9281.

The District of Invermere is considering the amendment applications made by the owners of the property legally described above and identified in the map below. The applicants desire is to amend the current Official Community Plan Land Use Designation from SINGLE FAMILY RESIDENTIAL (LOW DENSITY) to MULTI FAMILY RESIDENTIAL (MEDIUM DENSITY) and the Zoning Designation from R-1 SINGLE FAMILY RESIDENTIAL to COMPREHENSIVE DEVELOPMENT ZONE (CDZ)- 5: ORCHARD for future residential development.

The District of Invermere is considering the amendment applications made by the owners of the property legally described above and identified in the map below. The applicant’s proposal is an adjustment to the on site location of the current C-3 Neighbourhood Commercial and R-3 Cluster Development Zones. No change to the current permitted use within either zone is being sought.

If you believe that your interest in property is affected by the proposed Bylaw, you may prior to the hearing: fax written comments to (250) 342-2934, email to planning@invermere.net or drop them off at the District of Invermere Office, by Tuesday December 15th , 2020 at 4:30 pm MST. There will be no question and answer period during the Public hearing.

If you believe that your interest in property is affected by the proposed Bylaw, you may prior to the hearing: fax written comments to (250) 342-2934, email to planning@invermere.net or drop them off at the District of Invermere Office, by Tuesday December 15th , 2020 at 4:30 pm MST. There will be no question and answer period during the Public hearing.

You may inspect the proposed Official Community Plan Bylaw Amendment No. 1591, 2020 and, Zoning Bylaw Amendment No.1592, 2020 proposal online at the District of Invermere web site https://invermere.net/news/

You may inspect the proposed Official Community Plan Bylaw Amendment No. 1594, 2020 and, Zoning Bylaw Amendment No.1595, 2020 proposal online at the District of Invermere web site https://invermere.net/news/

If you have questions or require more information, please contact Rory Hromadnik, Director of Development Services at (250) 342 9281, extension. 1235 or planning@invermere.net

If you have questions or require more information, please contact Rory Hromadnik, Director of Development Services at (250) 342 9281, extension. 1235 or planning@invermere.net

DATED this 25th day November 2020

DATED this 26th day November 2020

Rory Hromadnik, Development Services

Rory Hromadnik, Development Services

December 3, 2020

The Columbia Valley Pioneer • 17

Support local in Radium Hot Springs

Submitted by Jessica Fairhart Executive Director, Tourism Radium Radium Hot Springs Chamber of Commerce & Tourism Radium are gearing up to give away local prize packages!

That’s right; there are shop local prize packages available to be won throughout the month of December by supporting local. Check everyone off of your Christmas shopping list by shopping in Radium and enter to win or try a new restaurant in town to participate.

Shoppers can enter a ballot to win when they spend $20 or more at any of the participating businesses in Radium

Continued from ‘local artist’ on page 13 “I’m not super familiar with using Facebook’s ‘Buy and Swap’ or Marketplace as a platform for art, but I do know it’s a place where some post too.

Black Star Studios has been really great at sharing valley-area work via their page, so keep an eye on there as well,” remarked the artist.

On Dec. 4, Japhy Hunt will be releasing a lot of his new creations on his website for the holiday season including limited edition canvas prints of ‘The Painted Valley’ as well as a variety of Christmas cards, and household items such as water bottles and coasters with his art printed on them.

from December 1 – 12, 2020. Eligible businesses include stores, activity providers, restaurants and accommodators. From December 13 – 24, ballots will be drawn, and prizes will be handed out daily!

We know this holiday season will look different, and while now is not the time to travel outside of our community, there is so much to see and do close to home!

Explore Radium and support local businesses this December.

Each prize package will include a stay at a local accommodator, a dining credit and a voucher for a local activity or product.

“I suppose the best thing to do, this season, is to get in touch with your friends and family who are busy creating or crafting their own wares, as a source of your next holiday gift. And if you see a local person peddling their wares online, share it if you can,” said Hun. “It may be their only avenue to get the word out. This is also a perfect time to get inspired. Maybe you can find a unique gift for someone this year or create your own!”

If you have any questions about Hunt’s artwork, you can contact him at japhyhunt@gmail.com, or follow him on Instagram for updates @japhyhunt and his website at japhyshinehunt.com.

Recycle BC Depot Tips

Delivery packaging, where does it go?

PAPER & CARDBOARD PRODUCTS

FLEXIBLE PACKAGING

Cardboard boxes of all types.

They come in many shapes and sizes. Corrugated cardboard and boxboard can both be recycled in the Paper & Cardboard bin.

Please flatten your boxes as much as possible before placing them in the bin.

PAPER & CARDBOARD PRODUCTS

Bubble wrap goes into the Flexible Packaging bin. This applies to both large and small bubble wrap of any colour. Of course you can feel free to pop it all first if that’s what you like.

FLEXIBLE PACKAGING

The paper packaging that is stuffed in delivery boxes to take up the excess space can be placed in the Paper & Cardboard bin.

WHITE STYROFOAM

GARBAGE (if it can’t be reused) Squishy foam sheets and pouches are not recyclable at this time. This type of packaging is distinguishable from styrofoam in that it will not break if bent.

You can place this foam in your household waste.

GARBAGE (if it can’t be reused)

Inflatable air packets go in the Flexible Packaing bin. These are becoming more common which is nice as they require much less material to produce.

FLEXIBLE PACKAGING

The styrofoam that can be recycled is a rigid material that breaks if you bend it. Place this type of styrofoam in the White Styrofoam bin. If it just squishes or bends, but does not break, it goes in your household waste.

Soft, squishy foam packing ‘peanuts’ are not recycleable at this time. Please place these little guys in your household waste.

GARBAGE (if it can’t be reused)

Padded mailers that are made entirely of plastic can go in the Flexible Packaging bin. If they are a combination of paper and plastic, they go in the trash.

THE ONLY delivery packaging listed above that can go in a Yellow Bin is paper & cardboard packaging.

RDEK Representatives RADIUM HOT SPRINGS PUBLIC LIBRARY BOARD Are you a book lover?

Do you enjoy volunteering?

Do you believe in public libraries?

If you answered YES to any of these questions, we might have an exciting opportunity waiting for you!

Padded mailers that are created with a combination of paper or cardboard and plastic are not recycleable at this time.

These mailers go in with your household waste. learn more

engage.rdek.bc.ca/recycle

The Regional District of East Kootenay (RDEK) is looking for two people to represent the RDEK as Trustees on the Radium Hot Springs Public Library Board as follows: • one person to represent Electoral Area G; and • one person to represent Electoral Areas F and G, District of Invermere, and Village of Canal Flats.

To be considered for a position, an applicant must be a resident or elector of the above area(s) and cannot be employees or elected officials of the RDEK, District of Invermere, Village of Canal Flats or the Library Board. These volunteer positions are for a two year term expiring December 31, 2022.

If you are interested, please submit a letter of application and brief resume including reasons for your interest and related experience to Tina Hlushak, A/Corporate Officer, at the RDEK. VIA EMAIL in PDF format to thlushak@rdek.bc.ca; or

BY MAIL OR DROP OFF at the RDEK Cranbrook Office, 19-24th Ave. South, Cranbrook (drop off mail slot is outside of main doors) For information on the Library and the services it provides, please visit http://radium.bc.libraries.coop Applications must be received by 12:00pm on Thursday, December 17, 2020.

1-888-478-7335 | www.rdek.bc.ca

18 • The Columbia Valley Pioneer

December 3, 2020

HERE TO SERVE YOU CONCRETE

CARPET CLEANING Enjoy life, we’ll clean it up!

Call NOW:

READY MIX CONCRETE

• Carpets dry in 1 hour • Environmentally friendly products • Disinfectant kills COVID-19 • Fresh clean scent – no steam • Area rugs and upholstery • Protector • 100% guarantee • Prompt reliable service

Concrete Pump • Sand & Gravel Heavy Equipment Rentals • Crane Service Proudly Serving the Valley for over 50 years

For competitive prices and prompt service, call: 250-342-3268 (plant) 250-342-6767 (office)

Visit www.heavensbest.com for more information

250-688-0213

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

TILE AND GROUT CLEANING Business: 250-342-9692

RR#4 2117–13 Ave. Invermere, BC V0A 1K4

Phone: 250-342-5833 • Cell: 250-270-9444

Cell: 250-342-1273 Fax: 250-342-9644

ptarmiganrugclean@gmail.com

CONTRACTING

All products are available at 9120, Hwy 93/95 which is five kilometres north of Tim Hortons

CONTRACTING

CONTRACTING

Kekuli Bay Cabinetry

DESIGN BUILD UILD

kekulibaycabinetry.com

• Trusses • Engineered Floors • Wall Panels Tel: 250.341.6075 Fax: 250.341.3427 Email: info@duskbuildingsystems.com www.duskbuildingsystems.com

New Builds, Renovations, Additions, & Kitchens

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

Specializing in all heating, electric, gas and wood.

• Authorized dealer • Designer • Installer

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

Dale Elliott Contracting

25 years experience installing cabinets Custom Woodwork and Finishing Serving the Columbia Valley for over 40 years.

dale@decontracting.ca • 250-341-7098 INSURANCE

A licensed, registered and bonded company

We also offer roundthe-clock service calls.

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

Paul Aubrecht, Dipl. Arch. SAIT

250-342-5698 paulaubrecht.houzz.com

INSURANCE

Best of

2020

DESIGN

Best of

2020

SERVICE

Established since 1993

• Architectural Design • Interior Design • Building Permits • Construction Management

PHARMACY

LAMBERT-KIPP

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

INSURANCE AGENCIES LTD.

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

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

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

www.kootenayinsurance.ca

Come in and browse our giftware

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

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

1301 - 7th Avenue, Invermere

250-342-6612

SHUTTER BUGS WELCOME We love a good photo submission. If you have a snapshot to share, email info@columbiavalleypioneer.com

December 3, 2020

The Columbia Valley Pioneer • 19

End of season for WildSafeBC

Submitted by WildSafeBc The bears are almost all denned up for the winter, as is the WildSafeBC Your Community program.

Once again, WildSafeBC had an active year assisting the community with several wildlife conflicts throughout the Columbia Valley. The program included door-todoor canvassing, garbage tagging, attendance at public events, delivery of the WildSafe Ranger elementary school program and a handful of Wildlife Awareness and Bear safety and Bear spray presentations and clinics.

Corinna Strauss, the Columbia Valley WildSafeBC Community Coordinator, is grateful for the generous support of the British Columbia Conservation Foundation, Ministry of Environment and Climate Change Strategy, the Conservation Officer Service and Bylaw Enforcement for their ongoing support and everyone who has made an effort to prevent human-wildlife conflicts this year.

WildSafeBC Columbia Valley is grateful for the generous support the program receives from its funders, including Regional District of East Kootenays, Village of Radium Hot Springs, District of Invermere, Columbia Basin Trust, Ministry of Environment and Climate Change Strategy, and BC Conservation Foundation.

Unsecured garbage and mismanaged fruit trees remain the top high conflict animal attractants in the Columbia Valley. Black bears and deer remain to be the two wildlife

species of highest conflict.

Please do not intentionally feed any wildlife; this includes deer and wild turkeys. This will cause these animals to become habituated to human-sourced food.

Please view our year-end report scheduled to be released in December on our website to see what the Columbia Valley WildSafeBC Community Coordinator was able to accomplish this year.

During the winter months, wildlife conflicts can still be reported to the RAPP line at 1-877-952-7277, and urgent wildlife questions can be directed to bc@wildsafebc. com. Until our program resumes in the spring, please visit wildsafebc.com and follow our Facebook page for updates, tips, and other information to assist you in keeping wildlife wild and communities safe!

The British Columbia Conservation Foundation (BCCF) is a not-for-profit organization. BCCF’s mission is to promote and assist in the conservation of the fish and wildlife resources of the Province of British Columbia through the protection, acquisition or enhancement of fish and wildlife habitat. WildSafeBC is a program delivered through the British Columbia Conservation Foundation. To learn more about BCCF, please visit www.bccf.com.

HERE TO SERVE YOU SERVICES

(Servicing the Valley since 1999)

NEW SEWER CAMERA

• Septic Tank Pumping • Portable Toilet Rentals

• A well maintained septic system • Complete sewer/drain repairs should be pumped every 2-3 years • Reasonable rates – Seniors’ discount • Avoid costly repairs • Speedy service – 7 days a week

Bruce Dehart 250.347.9803 or 250.342.5357

SERVICES

SERVICES

• Interior/Exterior Painting • Staining • Clear Coat • New Construction • Renovations

HOW WE ROLL Gerard Rehman 4950 Hot Springs Rd. Fairmont Hot Springs, B.C. V0B 1L1

Scott Postlethwaite

Residential, Commercial Electric Furnace and Hot Water Tank Repair and Service For All Your Electrical Needs

Ph: 250-688-ROLL

Free Estimates

(7655) LetUsRoll4U@Gmail.com

20 years experience • Satisfaction guaranteed!

1710 10 Avenue – Invermere, B.C. V0A 1K0

WINDOW COVERINGS SHOWROOM

Beat the fall rush ~ clean your Chimney this spring!

ROCKY MOUNTAIN CHIMNEY SWEEPS LTD. 804 Almberg Road, Golden, BC V0A 1H2 CELL: 250.272.5599 OFFICE: 250.344.7323 todd@rockymountainchimneysweeps.com rockymountainchimneysweeps.com

CLEANING & MAINTENANCE ON ALL WOOD BURNING APPLIANCES • WETT INSPECTIONS

• • • •

Doors Windows Flooring Painting/Interior/ Exterior • Kitchen Renovations • Window Coverings

• Bathroom Renovations • Additions • Decks • Finish Carpentry • Basement Renovations

KITCHEN CABINETS & COUNTER TOPS

915 7th Avenue, Unit B, Invermere • EMAIL: fairmontridge@telus.net • 250-342-4663

• Air Conditioning/Heat Pumps • Fireplaces • Full Heating and Ventilation Systems Call for your FREE consultation and estimate

WETT Certified

Sales ~ Service ~ Installation

UNIVERSAL DOORS & EXTERIORS Arnold Scheffer 250-342-6700

unidoorext@live.ca • unidoorext.ca

Industrial ~ Commercial ~ Residential

SERVICE EXCELLENCE IN THE COLUMBIA VALLEY

Judy: (250) 341-1903

valleysolutions@shaw.ca

House Checking and more!

Bob: (250) 341-5014

PROVIDING SOLUTIONS FOR THE VACATION HOME OWNER SINCE 2006

invermereelectric@gmail.com

th

SINCE 1991 ICBC Glass Repair Out of Province Vehicle Inspections Auto Body Repairs • Painting • Quality Parts

We give all students 15% off with valid student ID

North American Warranty All Makes and Models Tire Sales and Installation

141 Industrial Rd. 2 • 250-342-9424 • Open Monday - Saturday, 8:30 am - 5:30 pm

20 • The Columbia Valley Pioneer

December 3, 2020

P ioneer C lassifieds ANNOUNCEMENT

ICAN , your animal rescue center in Invermere is looking for your help this year as their normal fundraising events have had to be cancelled due to COVID-19.

Your tax deductible donations can be made through the following: info@icanbc.com Thank you in advance.

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

Columbia United AA, Invermere: Saturday, Sunday, Tuesday and Wednesday at the BC Service Building, South End – 624 4th St., Invermere. Please call 250342-2424 for more information or to speak with someone from our fellowship.

AL-ANON Are you concerned about or affected by someone else’s drinking? If so, please join us on a “ZOOM” meeting every Monday at 7 p.m. For more information or to speak with someone from our fellowship, please call 250-342-8255.

Coming December 10th.

Tabletop Christmas Trees.

Available at Valley Foods and Invermere Home Hardware. $20.

All proceeds to the Columbia Valley Christmas Bureau.

Have a Safe Merry Real Tree Christmas!

CHEERS & JEERS

LOST AND FOUND

JEERS and double JEERS to people using a medical excuse for not wearing a mask. Anyone can say that, what about looking out for your fellow man. I guess we don’t warrant feeling a little safe when we go out.

FOUND: A single hearing aid. Call 250-342-2175 ask for Cindy.

Jeers to the “decommissioning” of the Wilmer rink... I don’t understand how every other community in the valley has an outdoor rink, but Wilmer no longer can! This is unfair to our youth especially at this time when they are not able to do very many activities, due to all the restrictions. The rink is maintained by volunteers. They are able to use the playground which is right beside the rink but not the rink it does not make any sense.

Cheers to the new traffic circle in Radium and the new paving from Radium to Windermere.

Cheers to the nurses in Emergency who handled a very tense situation on November 23rd with incredible skill.

You kept everyone safe and kept a situation from further escalation. Well done!

Cheers to Steve Hubrecht from The Columbia Valley Pioneer who wrote the great article on the Bighorn Sheep in Radium.

Weekly Featured Listing

LEGAL NOTICE NOTICE TO CREDITORS In the Estate of Joseph Charles Hemmelgarn deceased All Claims against the above estate, duly verified by statutory declaration and with particulars and valuation of security held, if any, must be sent to the undersigned before the 15th day of December 2020.

B. Kirsch, 1605 15th Ave. Invermere, BC, V0A 1K4

Huge house! 5 bedrooms and 5 baths! Boat slip!

$899,000 MLS: 2455331 1795 Victoria Avenue, Windermere (Brokerage ~ Rockies West Realty)

BUYING OR SELLING CALL 250-341-1202

gerrytaft.ca Personal Real Estate Corporation

Rockies West Realty Independently owned and operated

• Phone: 250-341-6299 • Email: info@columbiavalleypioneer.com • Web: www.columbiavalleypioneer.com

LOT/ACREAGE FOR SALE

LEE’S SMALL ENGINE REPAIR SHOP

STORAGE NEWHOUSE STORAGE Various sizes available.

Now with climatecontrolled units.

Call 250-342-3637.

COMMERCIAL SPACE 864 sq. ft. Shop space in the Industrial Park. Electrical included, $700/mo. 250-3423637, newmulti@telus.net.

Downtown 1021 6th ave 170 sq ft office with 400 sq ft warehouse 250-341-1408

ACCOMMODATION WANTED Older, mature, N/S, Nonpartying couple seeks petfriendly 2-bdrm house/ townhouse with basement and garage/carport for long-term rental. Can pay up to $1,200/mo including utilities. Please call 250-341-6098 or e-mail greatdaneman@hotmail.com with details.

CONDO FOR RENT Invermere - Furnished Upper Level two-storey Condo, close to downtown. 2-bdrm, 2 bathrooms. N/S, N/P, No Partiers.

References please. Available until June 1st, 2021. $1,250/mo.

Utilities and internet included.

403-978-4559.

BUYING OR SELLING? I specialize in rural, recreational, farm and ranch properties.

BARRY BROWN-JOHN “Rocky Mountain Land Man”

Call or text

250-342-5245

b.brownjohn@gmail.com ACREAGE FOR SALE 4.7 acres. Has its own graveled access road from Kootenay #3 road already constructed.

Drilled well, views, privacy. $219,000 plus GST.

D L SO

Phone Elkhorn Ranch, 250-342-1268.

HOUSE FOR SALE 3-bdrm, 2 bath House for Sale in Invermere. 1600 sq. ft. Call 250342-6349 to make an appointment for viewing.

MISC. FOR SALE Top Quality Hay Round bales.

Phone Elkhorn Ranch 250-3421268.

New ATV snowplow for sale $450. Call 250-341-1255.

Have a Safe Merry Real Tree Christmas!

LOT/ACREAGE FOR SALE

FIREWOOD

ELKHORN COUNTRY ESTATES

Seasoned birch firewood for sale. $325 per cord, picked up in Brisco. Call 250-341-1255.

Selling Phase 3 now.

2.5-acre parcels.

Only 2 left. Phone Elkhorn Ranch 250-342-1268. www.elkhornranches.com

SERVICES

Please email classified ads to info@columbiavalleypioneer.com

SERVICES Have a Safe Merry Real Tree Christmas!

Specializing in chainsaws, snow blowers, wood splitters and power augers for all your firewood and winter needs.

SAW CHAIN NOW AVAILABLE.

Kootenay Country Electrical Qualified Electrical Service Licensed, Bonded, Insured Highly skilled electrician Call Dean 250-342-5516.

Industrial #2 Road across from NAPA

HELP WANTED

Hours: Tuesday-Friday 9 a.m. - 5 p.m.

Saturday 10 a.m. – 3 p.m.

250-341-2551

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

Offering Excellent Service & Fair Pricing!

B.B.’s Home & Lawn Care Services Renovations, Handyman Repairs, Small moves, Dump runs, House Checks, House Cleaning, Yard Maintenance, Eavestroughs, Tree removal.

Book now for snow removal.

250-688-2897.

Pike Contracting Excavating and Skid Steer services.

Call Jason 250-342-5277.

The Heartfelt Companion: SERVICE FOR SENIORS offers non-medical help to seniors in their home and respite for caregivers. Companionship, errands, transportation, personal care, meal prep and more. Excellent local references and credentials and a big, kind heart! Rest assured; COVID-19 precautions are in place to keep you safe. “The Heartfelt Companion team provide, in the truest sense, heartfelt companionship. They always have mom’s best interest in mind.

I find that my family can once again enjoy our time with mom, as we know she is being cared for, lifting this responsibility from our shoulders. We can once again simply enjoy each other’s company. We have tremendous gratitude for their service.” 250-341-5683 www. heartfeltcompanionservices. com

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

Don’t Miss an Issue!

N E W S PA P E R

Read us online:

www.columbiavalleypioneer.com

December 3, 2020

The Columbia Valley Pioneer • 21

0911611 BC Ltd. O/A Tim Hortons 496 Highway 93/95, Invermere BC, V0A 1K2

PRINT & DIGITAL EDITOR

Tim Hortons Invermere is currently looking for

FOOD SERVICE SUPERVISORS Permanent, full-time, part-time, shift, weekend, day, night, evening. $15.60 per hour + benefits • Start Date: ASAP # of Vacancies: 6 • Experience: 1 year to less than 2 years Education: No degree, certificate or diploma required.

Please apply via email at timhortons.invermere@gmail.com or in person at 496 Highway 93/95 Invermere, BC

Fairmont Vacation Villas Mountainside

Licensed Automotive Technician Looking for a licensed automotive technician to join our team. Wage based on experience and previous workplace references. Please provide resume and references.

Contact Mike at Walker’s Repair Centre.

Ph: 250-342-9424 • Email: info@walkersrepair.ca

CAREER OPPORTUNITY

(855) 345-6341or mountainsidevillas.com

Housekeepers For their busy winter season.

All positions involve working weekends. The successful applicant must be reliable, have their own transportation, have a strong work ethic and the ability to work in a fast-paced team environment. If this sounds like you, we look forward to receiving your application/resume.

Contact Lynn Brunelle at 250 345-6341 Fax Att: Lynn 250 345-6299 Or email: HSKPmgr@msvillas.com

One-year Employment Opportunity

Childcare Centre Manager Sonshine Children’s Centre is currently searching for a part-time manager to fill a one-year position, with potential for full-time employment if candidate posse’s sufficient education and training.

• • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • •

Specific responsibilities: Insuring Sonshine is always in compliance to Licensing Regulations Appling for staff/child Licensing exemptions Completing monthly/annual reporting to MCFD Monthly staff and child scheduling Hire of new educators Submit staff time to payroll Monthly invoicing of childcare fees Submitting financial documents to Bookkeeper Receiving, documenting, and depositing of childcare fees Organize monthly staff meeting Organizing and carrying out fundraising events Attend monthly board meetings Manage child wait lists and enrollment of new children Maintaining child and staff files Completing grant applications Completing annual budget and capital expenditures Participate in completion of annual Operation Plan Qualifications/Education: Experience in administration/management. Specifically, in a childcare setting would be an asset Has the personality, ability, and temperament necessary to manage or work with children Complies with the Province’s immunization and tuberculosis control programs An Early Childhood Education Certificate is an asset First aid and Food Safe certification are assets.

Criminal record check To Apply: Please send resume and cover letter to: sccot@lwac.ca no later then December 23, 2020.

We have a news site - www.fitzhugh.ca - that we update daily, and a weekly community newspaper serving Jasper and the surrounding area. We also publish various speciality products produced on an annual basis.

The successful candidate works well in a team setting, but is self-motivated. You must be community minded, have positive energy, and be a good storyteller within Canadian Press style guidelines.

You have to be organized, and able to give clear direction to editorial staff or freelancers.

QUALIFICATIONS

• Journalism education: Degree, diploma or certificate; or equivalent work experience.

• Ability to organize work and give direction to others in order to meet deadlines.

• Ability to work collaboratively with the other members of the management team.

• Experience in Adobe Creative Suite and posting to social media.

Fairmont Villa Management are now hiring

We offer year-round employment, with a wage of $18 per hour for applicants 19 and older and a generous benefits package after 3 months. We are also accepting part-time and student applications.

The Jasper Fitzhugh is looking for a full-time Print and Digital Editor to manage our news operation.

1st Cook Are you a professional cook with leadership skills and a passion for creating high quality dishes?

Qualifications: • 2 years experience in food prep position • Red Seal certification • Food Safe certification

Email your resume to gm@copperpointresort.com

REQUEST FOR PROPOSAL JANITORIAL SERVICES INVERMERE CAMPUS Proposals clearly marked ‘Janitorial Services – Invermere Campus’ will be received electronically to the office of Allan Knibbs, Facilities Director, Cranbrook Campus: AKnibbs@cotr.bc.ca Closing time for receiving tenders will be 12:00 pm (MST) Wednesday December 16, 2020.

Proposal documents and specifications will be available to interested contractors at the Invermere Campus.

A Mandatory site visit will take place at the Invermere Campus located at 1535 14th Street, Invermere, BC at 10:00 am (MST) on Monday, December 14 at the Invermere Campus.

College of the Rockies reserves the right to waive informalities in, or reject any or all proposals, or accept the proposal deemed most favourable in the interest of College of the Rockies. The lowest or any proposal will not necessarily be accepted.

For further information please contact: Michelle Taylor Campus Manager College of the Rockies Invermere Campus 1535 14th Street Invermere, BC Phone: 250-342-3210 Extension 7101 mtaylor2@cotr.bc.ca

The company offers competitive benefit and pension plans.

The position is based in our office at 612 Connaught Drive, Jasper.

The position is available immediately and must start no later than January 11, 2021. Initially the position is for a one year term to fill a maternity leave, but the term can be extended for the right candidate.

Interested candidates should forward their resume to: publisher@fitzhugh.ca

PUBLISHER

The Jasper Fitzhugh has a position available for a Publisher.

We are looking for an individual with the following attributes: • A demonstrated ability in sales; • The ability to continuously improve our print and digital products; • The ability to work on Apple products with a variety of software platforms; • A genuine interest in people. The desire to help people to improve their skills and elevate the quality of their work; • The ability to make clear decisions and communicate them effectively; • The ability to adhere to deadlines in a time sensitive environment.

The position will have overall general management orientation with profit and loss responsibility.

A background in newspaper publishing is desirable but not essential. For example, the position may appeal to individuals with experience in marketing, retail sales management or teaching.

We will provide training for the suitable candidate.

This is a one year term position to fill in for a maternity leave.

If necessary we can extend the term longer than one year, but it may require varying the duties.

The position is available immediately with a start date no later than January 11, 2021.

Please send a letter indicating your interest, along with a CV to; Fuchsia Dragon, Publisher, The Fitzhugh PO Box 428, Jasper, AB, T0E 1E0 Email: publisher@fitzhugh.ca

cotr.ca

Please recycle this newspaper

Due to COVID-19 restrictions initial interviews may be conducted over Zoom.

22 • The Columbia Valley Pioneer

December 3, 2020

SERVICES

HELP WANTED

Radium Husky House

“Double Down” Winter Special

9

$ 99

2 Eggs (Cooked to your liking) 2 pieces of toast + Tax 2 pieces of meat (Bacon or Sausage) & Hashbrowns *Add 2 pieces of meat for $1.99 *Scan your myHusky App for Free rewards.

Served daily until Feb. 28, 2021, 7 am - 3 pm 4918 HWY 93 Radium Hot Springs, BC

HELP WANTED

BUSINESS FOR SALE Mountain Creek Properties Ltd. is accepting resumes for a full-time

Strata Caretaker

position at a large condominium located in Invermere.

Ideal candidate will have: Excellent organizational and communication skills, work well in a team environment, be mechanically inclined and have handyman skills. Be physically fit, detail oriented, able to take direction and work with minimal supervision.

Possess a valid driver’s licence and a vehicle that can be used for work. Either have or be willing to obtain a certified Swimming Pool Operator certificate.

Previous experience for this position is not required but is considered an asset.

Job Responsibilities will include but not be limited to: Swimming pool/hot tub maintenance, coordinating with contractors, maintaining the buildings (i.e. completing daily inspections, painting, etc.), grounds maintenance, snow removal, equipment maintenance, and additional duties as required.

The ideal candidate must also be willing to complete a criminal background check and be flexible (available to work weekends and holidays if required).

Akisqnuk First Nation

Please send your resume to strataassistant@mountaincreek.ca or Mountain Creek Properties Ltd. Box 909, Invermere, BC - V0A 1K0.

EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY

Human Resource Generalist Summary To provide operational Human Resource support to the Senior Administrative Officer (SAO), managers, and employees. This will include recruitment, selection and orientation program administration, compensation, and performance management. Development of policy and procedures, including performance evaluations, compensation policy.

Managing compliance with approved Akisqnuk First Nation policies. Manage employee relations and records. This position reports directly to the SAO. Key Duties & Responsibilities • Development and maintenance of Akisqnuk First Nation position descriptions. Lead role in the recruitment process, including advertising, screening, and interview processes.

• Conduct reference checks, prepare correspondence and communicate with candidates.

• New employee orientation. Introduction of new employees, orientation, and set up of workspace. Liaise with finance, payroll, and IT for all work requirements.

• Meet legislated requirements of employee records.

• Manage in a confidential manner all employee files, maintain strict confidentiality.

• File all necessary paperwork for all employees for payroll benefits.

• Develop and maintain compensations and salary administration policy, including wage or salary administration policy.

• Maintain and update HR policy and procedures as necessary to conform to federal and provincial laws.

• Ensure enforcement of the HR policy in an equal and fair manner.

• Liaise with all employees, managers, and benefits carrier for HR related issues; including all benefit programs, long and short disability and return to work. Chair the Occupational Health & Safety (OH&S) committee.

• Work with the health and public works departments to develop safety plans as well as deal with safety issues as they arise.

• Research and recommend a time tracking and performance management system to council and management.

• Set up and mange the system.

• Work with WCB and with employees. This is not an exhaustive list of duties.

Where to recycle?

Check the BC RECYCLEpEdia www.rcbc.ca Qualifications:

• Post secondary degree or diploma with a focus on Human Resources.

• Chartered Professional in Human Resources/Certified Human Resources Professional.

Recycling council of B.c. MeMBeR Required Experience • 5 years experience in the HR field, with an understanding and experience in recruitment and selection.

• Experience with policy development and enforcement and advice interpretation.

Strong background in benefits and performance management.

• Working knowledge of Federal and B.C. labor standards.

To Apply: Please send resume & cover letter to: lshovar@akisqnuk.org no later than 4:00pm December 4, 2020.

Attention

Inventors!

Ideas wanted!

Call Davison today!

1.800.218.2909 or visit us at inventing.davison.com/BC

Free inventor’s guide!

SERVICES

GET RESULTS!

Reach almost 2 million people in 95 papers for only $395/week for a 25-word text ad, or $995/week for a formatted display ad

bccommunitynews.com/ advertise 1-866-669-9222

Invermere Home Hardware is HIRING for the following position:

Book by province or whole country and save over 85%!

Class 3 Driver Come and join our dynamic team!

Great atmosphere! Great benefits!

Please apply in person, fill out application at Customer Service or send your resume to: hr@invermerehardware.ca Attention: Susanne L’Heureux

Please recycle this newspaper

Where to recycle?

Check the BC RECYCLEpEdia 604-RECYCLE (732-9253) 1-800-667-4321 Recycling council of B.c. MeMBeR

Myth: Change your ads all the time. Readers get tired of the same thing.

Reality: Develop a good campaign, or theme for your ads.

Stick with that one campaign, and only make small changes of headlines or details. Call Amanda at 250-341-6299 to find out more.

Recycling questions?

Mailing Address: 3050 Highway 93/95, Windermere, BC V0B 2L2 Tel: (250) 342-6301 Fax: (250) 342-9693 info@akisqnuk.org • www.akisqnuk.org

BCYCNA – CLASSIFIED ADS

Recycle? Ye

N E W S PA P E R

Get the BC ReCYCl

• info@columbiavalleypioneer.com BC RECYCLING www.columbiavalleypioneer.com HOTLINE 604-732-9253

December 3, 2020

The Columbia Valley Pioneer • 23

A baker looks at forty

By James Rose james@columbiavalleypioneer.com Peter Benga crossed the Atlantic to Canada from Switzerland in 1978. Mother, mother ocean, I have heard you call. He worked first in Banff for a year before Vancouver and then finally the Columbia Valley.

In 1981, at the age of 27, he became the Columbia Valley’s baker after buying out the retiring owners of the Quality Bakery.

Growing up, his mother said to him: “people will always eat bread.” His grandfather was a Zurich baker. As a young man, he was trained in the Swiss tradition of holistic baking. At 24, he thought he’d spend a year in Canada. See a new place, Banff and its mountains, get some early kitchen work experience.

Meet some girls. He’s been here since. Every so often, he’ll return to Europe for a visit.

In the early days at the Quality Bakery, he did it all. And he was always trying new things.

One of his past employees suggested a little known, uniquely shaped thing called a pretzel.

This year, the bakery will bake 36,000+ pretzels. To Benga, baking is an art and a science.

“The only real limitation a baker has is his own creative limit,” he said. A Zurich lad, he was, of course, familiar with European café culture.

Benga had one of the valley’s first cappuccino machines. One of his former employees later started, with her then husband, a company called Kicking Horse Coffee.

The first ten to twenty years, he had the valley’s baking market to himself. “And I was trying to please everyone,” he said. But once competition started to arrive in the late 1990’s, Benga knew he had to change his ways. He had to become a better businessman.

In 2000, he purchased an integrated inventory management system. “It made an enormous difference in our quality control,” he said. It also helped him manage his accounts payable.

When he invested in a new computerized point of sale system, the sales data it showed surprised Benga in a big way. “Before, I had no clue that we sold so many beverages.” He started managing his people better. “I realized the importance of detailed job descriptions and training.”

And he began around then a wholesale arrangement with Sydney-Anne Porter at AG Valley Foods. The partnership between Benga and Porter has grown to be critical for both. It’s an inspiring win-win story for Columbia

Valley business. “Peter was always progressive,” Porter said. “He’s never in our 21-year business relationship used preservatives in his bread. And he knows great taste.”

Taste so good, Porter said she has Calgarian customers regularly buy enough of his loaves to stock their freezer back in the city. “Nordic Bread has become one of

to find good tasting gluten-free bread. But his tastes real, and it has real ingredients,” Porter said. Benga imports high-quality gluten-free flour from Germany. Porter’s personal favourite? River Park Rye. Nordic Bread sure is popular. Personally, I buy four loaves of it a time. Last year 7,000 loaves were sold.

Benga: “It tastes great, and it’s healthy.” Simple enough. Benga thinks less is more when it comes a bread’s ingredients. Nordic doesn’t have many. It looks rustic. It has a unique blend of white flour, rye flour and grains. Authentic Loaf, another of his breads, has only white flour, water, yeast, and sea salt. Fresh out of the oven, the smell, the warmth, it’s not fair.

“We start with the flour base and soak it in water to hydrate it for 90 minutes,” Benga said of Nordic. “Then we start adding the ingredients, yeast etc. Then, we knead. We have a machine that forms the bread, and then it goes into pans. We let the dough rise for 45-60 minutes and bake the bread for half an hour at 380 °F.” Every day, judgement calls are made. In the hot summer months, ice has to be added to the dough. In the winter, the water needs to be warm enough. “Nordic’s dough temperature needs to be 26°C. If higher, the bread will rise well, but it will be dry.” Vice versa, if the dough’s temperature is too cool. “Figuring all that out just took experience,” Benga said.

“90% of a baker’s mistakes have to do with either time or temperature.”

Had COVID not happened, Benga would, as of this past spring, now been retired. Boots up on the porch. Thinking what he heard that young rancher say on that television commercial: “You know if you can find some work that you love, you pretty much have a life.” But no, that time was delayed a year. COVID, one final challenge for Peter Benga, baker businessPhoto of Peter Benga by James Rose man. Nonetheless, Benga looks at forty years in Peter’s best selling breads. We’ve carried it since he first business come 2021. Then he’ll retire. As Buffett said: introduced it, and in particular over the last three or so Never meant to last, never meant to last. years, it’s really exploded in popularity.” Benga can’t re“I’m excited for Peter,” said Porter. “I’ve been very member exactly, but he thinks it was about ten years ago grateful for our partnership over the past two decades. he first marketed Nordic. Of his bread with gluten, Nor- He’s left an awesome legacy.” Dutchman Theo Walta, an dic accounts for almost half of sales. Harvest Hearth is his employee of Peter’s from eighteen years ago, will be the third best seller. next owner. “He is experienced, and he is a very talented Benga’s unique gluten-free category has also exceed- baker,” Benga said. In retirement, he won’t be going anyed sales expectations. Gluten-free now accounts for over where. He loves it here too much.

20% of Benga’s total sales. “For a long time, it was hard

Banff Mountain Film Festival is back virtually Submitted by Penny Powers volunteer organizer The Banff Mountain Film Festival tour is taking the show on the ‘virtual road’.

Thanks to the Toby Creek Nordic Ski Club (TCNC), it will be returning to Invermere throughout the winter and summer of 2021.

Enjoy the festival in the comfort of your home, with family and friends (when allowed). The Banff Mountain Film Festival is from Dec. 1, 2020, to Oct. 21, 2021, and the link to purchase the bundle of films will be available for the same date.

The annual screening brings mountain-inspired cinema to our area. It is the nordic club’s biggest fundraiser of the year, with proceeds going toward the grooming and maintenance of the Lake Windermere Whiteway and the club’s junior programs.

The virtual tour gives you the opportunity to enjoy your choice of two different bundle packages. You can purchase one or both packages, and watch them over a three or fourteen-day period. Stay tuned for an additional package to be added in February and again in April. Movies range from focus pieces on something specific like snow sports to humour, environmental films, adventure pieces, kayaking, climbing, base

jumping, culture and inspirational films… There’s a beautiful wide selection.

If you have ever been to the film festival in Invermere before, the format is the same as if you had an evening out at the Community Hall. The programs start with the World Tour intro, and recordings by our Road Warriors will welcome the audience and signal the intermission, which of course, you’ll need to replenish your popcorn and drinks.

If you are looking for the perfect Christmas gift, you can send a World Tour program or bundle to someone special. This option will appear on the checkout page. The customer will make the purchase and the gift recipient will receive an email with information about how to watch the program or bundle.

Tickets to the virtual tour packages can be purchased online at TobyCreekNordic.ca: -Individual programs: $15 USD (3-day rental period) -Bundle (2 programs): $28 USD (14-day rental period) -The rental period begins immediately upon viewing (as soon as the customer presses play) -Films can be re-watched within their rental period -Customers will need to have an internet or wifi connection to view the films, as they are available only through online streaming (not download).

24 • The Columbia Valley Pioneer

FAITH

What does Christmas mean to you?

LAKE WINDERMERE ALLIANCE CHURCH

Pastor Wayne Frater Radium Christian Fellowship

Online Sundays at 10:30 a.m.

Visit https://lwac.online.church 326 10th Avenue, Invermere 250-342-9535 • www.lwac.ca

WINDERMERE VALLEY SHARED MINISTRY ANGLICAN-UNITED Please email office@wvsm.ca to request a link to our online service which starts at 10:30 a.m. Sundays.

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

250-342-6644 • www.wvsm.ca

VALLEY CHRISTIAN ASSEMBLY Sunday 10 a.m. Worship service Pastor Murray Wittke 4814 Highway Drive, Windermere 250-342-9511 • www.valleychristianonline.com

ROMAN CATHOLIC CHURCH

St. Anthony’s, Canal Flats., Canadian Martyrs’ – Invermere, St. Joseph’s – Radium.

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

ST. PETER’S LUTHERAN CHURCH Sunday 1:30 p.m. Worship Service at Valley Christian Assembly 4814 Highway Drive, Windermere www.eklutheran.ca mtzionlc@hotmail.com

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

CHURCH OF JESUS CHRIST OF LATTER-DAY SAINTS Worship Service, Sunday, 10 a.m.

Relief Society, 11:15 a.m.

President Rick Daniels • Columbia Valley Branch 5014 Fairway, Fairmont Hot Springs 250-421-3756

h e Pioneer ca T n

!

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

your message is resonating with residents and visitors alike.

Phone: (250) 341-6299 info@columbiavalleypioneer.com N E W S PA P E R

December 3, 2020

www.columbiavalleypioneer.com

Here we go again, in three weeks, it will be Christmas. And just like in the children’s movie, were the Gringe tried to steal Christmas, there are those things that are trying to steal our Christmas this year, I have Good News for you, no force on earth can steal the real meaning of Christmas.

What is the real meaning of Christmas?

What does Christmas mean to you? For me, it is a reminder that our God is a giving God, His very nature is giving. John 3:16,17 tells us, “For God so loved the world that He gave.”

Who did He give? “His only begotten Son.” Why did He give? So “that whoever believes in Him should not perish but have everlasting life. For God sent not His Son into the world to condemn the world; but that the world through Him might be saved.”

On that Christmas Eve so long ago, that Child, that Son, that Gift was born. God sent an entourage of angels to announce to the world the birth of their Savior, the birth of our Savior.

Luke 2:10-14 “And the angel said unto them, Fear not: for, behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy, which shall be to all people. For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Saviour, which is Christ the Lord. And this shall be a sign unto you; Ye shall find the babe wrapped in swaddling clothes, lying in a manger.

And suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host praising God, and saying, Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, good will toward men.”

I would like to take a moment and talk about that

peace on earth the angels are so excited about.

Christmas time to some people, especially this year, with all that is going on, is a very discouraging, depressing time; it shouldn’t be, It doesn’t have to be. I have some Good News for you.

Jesus tells us in John 14:27, “Peace I leave with you, my peace I give unto you: not as the world giveth, give I unto you. Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid.”

People today need true, inner peace. They search through relationships, addictions, money, gadgets and even religion to try to find something that will fill the void inside. But true peace, the kind of peace the angels told us about, can’t be found in anything this world has to offer. It can only be found through a personal relationship with Jesus Christ. Only Jesus can satisfy the longing in our hearts and give us true, lasting peace.

God gives freely, not as the world gives. We can’t earn it, and we can’t pay for it. There’s no catch, no fine print and no strings attached. We can rest secure that He’s not ever going to take His peace away; He tells us, “He will never leave us nor forsake us.” His peace is eternal! A life of peace begins when we invite Jesus to be our Lord and Savior. Then as we align our thoughts, attitudes and actions with His Word, that peace will flood every area of our lives.

Jesus tells us in John 16:33, “These things I have spoken unto you, that in me ye might have peace. In the world ye shall have tribulation: but be of good cheer; I have overcome the world.”

That is what Christmas means to me.

The angels heralded it, Jesus told us about it, and that peace on earth is available to each and every one of us.

Will you receive that peace? All you have to do is believe in your heart and profess with your mouth that Jesus is Lord, and you will be saved. Romans 10:13 tells us, “For whosoever shall call upon the name of the Lord (Jesus) shall be saved.”

“Glory to God in the highest, And on earth peace, goodwill toward men.”

Evolve to close doors

By Camille Aubin camille@columbiavalleypioneer.com Longtime Invermere resident Maxine Hawes has decided to close her store Evolve Smart Renewed Furnishings. “It’s been a real ride,” she said, adding the last day of the year will also be the last day of the store.

The boutique was opened seven and a half years ago by the owner and her daughter Spring. Gluing, painting, shampooing, pricing, receiving clients…The pair did aspect of the business together. “It channels my energy, and my creative side was satisfied,” explained Hawes. Three years ago, Spring left the family business, and the store became a one-woman operation.

Hawes took on two staff members; Shawna has been there for many years and Penny since June. “They’ve been good to work with,” said Hawes with a smile. “But I’m too old, too tired and too busy to carry on.”

Evolve Smart Renewed Furnishings was the only renewed furniture store in Invermere. “I’m hoping that someone will carry on with this. The town needs it,” said Hawes. “This person would need to have the eye for that and a keen sense of resale.”

The sale currently on at Evolve will continue until the last piece of furniture is sold, and the store will close on Dec. 31.