Columbia Valley Pioneer, May 13, 2021

May 13, 2021 Vol. 18/Issue 19

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The Columbia Valley Pioneer • 1

Your Weekly Source for News and Events

May 13, 2021

The Columbia Valley

P ioneer

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2 • The Columbia Valley Pioneer

May 13, 2021 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

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Interested in conservation and protecting the environment? Work with us in the Columbia Valley! There are some great jobs with wonderful organizations in the Columbia Valley. You can find all of these environmental sector jobs on CBEEN’s job and volunteer board, https://cbeen.ca/job-volunteer-board/, and in the Columbia Valley Pioneer’s Classifieds section.

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Congratulations to all the winners of our Mother’s Day Contest:

AG Valley Foods has been a long time supporter of the Columbia Valley Food Bank. A volunteer takes stock of the inventory every Thursday and then sends an order to the local grocery story. Promptly every Saturday, they deliver the order. The owners and staff make every effort to provide us with the best price in order to stretch the Food Bank dollars!

Titan, Gunner, Melissa, Jessica, Selena, Tishnaa, Chantall and Sheyanne.

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May 13, 2021

The Columbia Valley Pioneer • 3

VALLEY NEWS

Major traffic accidents in Kootenay National Park Semi collides head-on with minivan carrying family; vehicle rolls over on Good Samaritan, as Trans Canada detour increases traffic volumes on Highway 93 Steve Hubrecht steve@columbiavalleypioneer.com The closure of the TransCanada Highway for upgrades and the subsequent detouring of traffic through the Columbia Valley has resulted in a spate of traffic accidents occurring here in the last month.

The past four weeks have seen TransCanada traffic between Castle Junction and Golden rerouted south on Highway 93 to Radium and then north up to Golden on Highway 95, while crews work to ‘twin’ the TransCanada (i.e. make it two lanes in each direction). The closure and detour have resulted in a huge surge in traffic volumes on Highway 93 and Highway 95, to levels quite possibly never before seen in the Columbia Valley. There has been a corresponding increase in traffic accidents, a trend astute Pioneer readers will have noticed in the larger-than-normal number of motor vehicle incidents detailed in the Pioneer’s page four RCMP Report. In last week’s (May 6) edition of the Pioneer, for instance, traffic accidents accounted for the entire report, and all but one of these accidents occurred on the parts of Highway 93 and Highway 95 serving as the TransCanada detour.

Since that report, two more particularly horrific incidents have occurred, underscoring the dangers that can arise from funnelling TransCanada levels of vehicles onto highways not necessarily designed to handle the TransCanada traffic volumes.

The first incident occurred on Thursday, May 6 and involved a crashed vehicle — which had gone over an embankment — shift and roll over a passing motorist

who had stopped to help. The accident happened after 6 p.m. A green Chevrolet Tahoe was heading west through Kootenay National Park when, not far from the Sinclair Creek brake check (about 8 kilometres east of Radium Hot Springs), the driver lost control, veered into the oncoming lane, spun and then went down an embankment.

“A Good Samaritan, who had been travelling on the highway in the same direction, immediately jumped into action and climbed down the 150-foot embankment in an attempt to extricate the driver trapped inside,” said BC RCMP southeast district spokesperson Corporal Jesse O’Donaghey in a press release. “Without warning, onlookers witnessed as the wreckage shifted and suddenly rolled onto the Good Samaritan, seriously injuring him.

Fire crews worked quickly to perform a long line rescue to raise both the injured driver and the Good Samaritan to safety.”

STARS Air Ambulance airlifted the injured Good Samaritan to Alberta for enhanced medical care. “At last word the 46-year-old man, who just celebrated his birthday the day prior to the crash, was in stable condition,” read the press release, adding that the driver, a 44-yearold man, was transported by ambulance to a local hospital.

“Although full determinations have not yet been made, investigators suspect that alcohol may have been a factor in the crash,” read the press release. The driver, who allegedly refused to provide his blood samples to police, will appear in provincial court later this summer.

The second incident involved a fatal collision near Numa Falls in Kootenay National Park, which happened

around noon on Saturday, May 8. Columbia Valley RCMP and local paramedics both responded to the accident, which saw an eastbound white Freightliner semi truck attempt to pass a slower-moving passenger vehicle and then collide head-on with a westbound silver Honda Odyssey minivan carrying a family.

“The driver of the minivan, a 65-year-old man from New Brunswick, died at the scene. Three female passengers in the minivan, all from New Brunswick and ranging in age from 12-years-old to 58-years-old, sustained varying degrees of injury requiring medical treatment at hospital,” read the press release on this accident.

The injuries suffered by the females were serious, but not believed to be life-threatening, and neither person in the semi truck was injured.

“The driver of the vehicle being passed by the semi truck did not remain at the scene. That vehicle is described as a light-coloured SUV with a cargo box on the roof,” read the press release, adding police are urging the driver of the vehicle passed by the semi truck as well as anyone else who was traveling on Highway 93 near Numa Falls at the time of the accident on May 8 and who may have witnessed the collision or events leading up to it (including any dashboard camera video) to contact investigators.

BC RCMP Traffic Services in Cranbrook are leading the investigation into the head-on collision and can be contacted at 250-420-4244.

Anybody who witnessed the single vehicle collision and wreckage shift that injured the Good Samaritan and has not yet spoken to police is asked to call the Columbia Valley RCMP at 250-342-9292.

New upgrades for Old Coach Trail

By Steve Hubrecht steve@columbiavalleypioneer.com The Old Coach Trail will be getting some new upgrades thanks to provincial funding.

The Columbia Valley Greenways Trail Alliance is receiving a total of $154,000 from the provincial Targeted Regional Tourism initiative (part of the government’s COVID-19 economic recovery plan) through Kootenay Rockies Tourism, and the alliance will use the money for what it is calling the ‘Old Coach phase’ of the planned Radium to Invermere North Legacy project.

More specifically, the funding will be used to improve accessible amenities at the trailhead and all along the nine-kilometre gravel Old Coach trail between Dry

Gulch and Radium, with an emphasis on parking, picnic areas, washrooms and interpretive signage.

“Radium councils has been a strong advocate for the completion of the Old Coach Trail since inception of the idea. We are thrilled that this is getting closer to reality. We see bicycles and ebikes increasing in popularity, and this trail will increase accessibility for all levels when completed,” Radium mayor Clara Reinhardt told the Pioneer.

Greenway project manager Lianne Lang outlined to the Pioneer that the alliance is thrilled to receive the funding.

“As planning is underway with our partners for a Radium to Invermere trail, this funding will help the community and visitors to access the existing Old

Coach Trail and improve their experience with the addition of picnic areas, interpretive signage, and improved parking,” read a press release sent by Lang to the Pioneer, adding that the funding will create jobs and contribute to economic development as the alliance continues to improve and develop the trail network here in the valley.

“Expect to see progress with these amenities by this fall. This infrastructure will be further enhanced as plans continue for enhancing and completing the Radium to Invermere project, expected over the next several years as funding allows,” read the press release.

Lang notes that partnerships are crucial to trail network projects and said that the alliance is pleased to be working with Kootenay Rockies Tourism and is grateful to the provincial government for the funding.

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4 • The Columbia Valley Pioneer

SECURITY Est. 2005

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Invermere & Surrounding Areas

ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING Tuesday, May 25th, 2021 at 6:30 p.m.

Meeting will take place over Zoom Zoom links will be emailed to those who RSVP via Facebook or emailing cvcb@shaw.ca .

See our Facebook page for more details.

The Lakeview Manor Society

Annual General Meeting Tuesday, May 25th at 7 p.m.

Lions Hall, Columbia Valley Chamber of Commerce building. Limited space due to COVID restrictions.

Questions? Call Al Larratt at 250-688-7656.

Fairmont and District Lions Club

STUDENT ANNUAL SCHOLARSHIPS COMMUNITY LEADERSHIP AND SERVICE SCHOLARSHIP(S) $1,000 each to three deserving individuals) (Graduating from High School or engaged in Post Secondary Program)

HEALTH CARE ASSISTANT SCHOLARSHIP(S) College of the Rockies – Invermere Campus $2,000 to one individual or $1,000 each to two deserving individuals Scholarships are available for students from the local area defined by the boundaries of Canal Flats, Invermere, Radium and Regional District of East Kootenay Areas F and G. Information and application forms can be found at www.e-clubhouse.org/sites/fairmontbc/ Please note the deadline for receipt of the application is Monday, July 5, 2021

May 13, 2021

RCMP Report Submitted by Sgt. Darren Kakuno Detachment Commander Columbia Valley RCMP This past week, May 3 through May 9, the Columbia Valley RCMP responded to 112 calls for service. The following is a summary of some of the files our officers responded to.

•On Monday, May 3, three residents in the Invermere area reported waking to find someone had rummaged through their vehicles. Stolen from a vehicle parked on Ridge Drive was a set of golf clubs. A vehicle parked on 10 Avenue had a welding helmet stolen from it, and three vehicles on 12 Avenue were also rummaged through.

•On Monday, May 3, a resident on Hilltop Road in Windermere reported the theft of a 2021 Volvo XC90.

The vehicle was recovered the same day in Calgary. The investigation is ongoing.

•On Thursday, May 6, at about 1:45 a.m., police responded to a commercial transport truck fire on Highway 95 near Spillimacheen. The driver explained to po-

lice that the air pressure in his brake system had dropped and when he stopped at the pullout to inspect his truck, he discovered his trailer was on fire. The driver was able to disconnect the tractor from the trailer to prevent further spread of the fire. The fire occurred outside the fire protection zone.

Nobody was injured in this incident.

•On Saturday, May 8, a resident on Indian Beach Road in Windermere reported the theft of a blue Yamaha YZ125 from his property sometime overnight.

•On Sunday, May 9, at 5:45 a.m., emergency crews responded to a single vehicle collision on Kootenay # 3 Road in Windermere. The driver of a Dodge Ram pickup explained she had swerved to avoid several deer and rolled her truck. Paramedics transported two occupants of the truck to the hospital to be assessed for minor injuries.

•On Sunday, May 9, a resident on Cordillera Avenue in Edgewater discovered someone had rummaged through his Subaru Forester vehicle and stole a wallet.

Anyone with information is asked to contact the Columbia Valley RCMP or Crimestoppers.

Construction of the Athalmer Bridge will last until May long weekend

By Camille Aubin camille@columbiavalleypioneer.com Tired of waiting in line to cross the Athalmer Bridge?

Well, your going to have to wait a little longer, with work expected to be ongoing until the Victoria Day long weekend in late May. “The Athalmer bridge deck resurfacing was part of a larger contract that included resurfacing of three other area bridges, for a total contract value of $2.5 million,” wrote a spokesperson with B.C. Ministry of Transportation and Infrastructure (MOTI) in an email to the Pioneer, adding that though Stronger B.C. – the provincial government’s COVID-19 economic recovery plan — additional funding of more than $622,000 has been secured to include a sidewalk safety upgrade as part of the project, a move the ministry hopes will facilitate better active transportation within the community. Costs for the Athalmer bridge portion of the contract total $1.2 million.

The south side walking path (the right side, if you are going up the hill) and the south side of the road

were completed during Phase 1 of the bridge construction work at the end of last summer. “The first phase of the Athalmer Bride deck resurfacing began September 8, 2020, to coincide with lower traffic volumes during the fall shoulder season,” explained the spokesperson.

The second phase of the renovations covers the north side of the road (the bridge’s left side if you are going up the hill).

Single-lane alternating traffic has been in place since the beginning of the construction and will be there until the end of the project, which is estimated to be completed by the long weekend.

“Rehabilitation projects such as deck resurfacing help protect and maximize the lifespan of our infrastructure.

This helps improve safety and makes it a smoother driving surface for people.” wrote the MOTI spokesperson.

Invermere mayor Al Miller asked local residents to remains calm and polite during the waiting time, saying “we have to be all patient at this time, and it will be there shortly...I know they’ve done the pour of concrete. So now they just have to do the final coating.”

For updates visit: DriveBC.ca.

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May 13, 2021

The Columbia Valley Pioneer • 5

My moms: learning to love openly

would be revealed, as she knew her family was not ready to confront this taboo.

Given the rural small town environment and the soLast weekend was Mother’s Day and May 17 is Inter- cial mores of the time, it was only a matter of time before national Day Against Homophobia, which is why I want someone was going to discover the truth. And indeed, to share with you a little bit about where I’m from. My eventually, their coming out did occur, and it was not by hope is to help break some of the prejudices that still per- their own choosing. sist around same-sex couples and homoparental families, It’s Josée’s mother, Rachel, who surprised them because my mothers and I have lived very normal lives. first. One day Rachel was at home and was surprised to You read correctly: I was born into a so-called non-tradi- find my parents physically too close together to be ‘just tional family, with two mothers. Let me share with you friends’. “Oh oh!” Rachel exclaimed. And although Ratheir touching love story and the hardships they had to chel didn’t make a scene, she was dreadfully afraid that go through in order to live it fully.

Josée’ was surely going to straight to hell. “It’s an illness, Both come from a small village called Mont-Lauri- it’s going to be all right. We’ll get you treated,” said Raer, located a few hours north of the big city of Montre- chel. Of course, ‘treatment’ was not needed, and never al. They lived typical childhoods for their time, ones in happened. My grandmother bewhich working on the farm, houselieved that not intervening in Josée hold chores and French Catholic and Lousie’s relationship would masses were part of their daily life be held against her in heaven, but from a very young age. still something convinced her she My mother Louise Aubin was shouldn’t prevent Josée from living born into a farming family of five, her life, and falling in love. Rachel not to mention all the other childidn’t interfere, but she didn’t want dren my grandmother took care to know anything more about the of as a foster parent. My second relationship either. I suppose that mother Josée Lafantaisie was the having 12 other kids kept her busy youngest in a family of 13 chilenough. dren. Both were born in the 1960s, At the end of that same sumand as I mentioned about religion mer, Louise’s family learned about was a big part of their young lives. the relationship. “One evening “I was 15 years old when I we went to look for the cows, and first saw Louise sitting on a church Louise’ mom rummaged in my bag bench surrounded by her famiand read my diary, in which I wrote ly,” says Josée. “I would see her in Louise and Josée in highschool. everything about my daily life, my school and during sports. I made thoughts and my poems. Later in friends with your mother’s twin sister in order to be closer the evening, we were doing the dishes, and Mamy said to her.” This is how my moms’ story began. to us ‘I have to talk to you in the swing soon.’ We knew They soon became good friends after playing togeth- straight away that she was not in a good mood. Later that er on the school volleyball team. “My own mother often evening, she told us she knew about us, and it had to end reminded us how common we were. She told us often. I now. Our heads down, we said ‘okay’,” said Josée. imagine she was seeing something that we thought was After that, Josée was forbidden to come to the farm. hidden,” says Louise.

My grandmother hoped that this teen love affair would Each of my moms approaches their homosexuality fade with time, as many teen relationships do, and wantfrom a much different perspective. ed to keep it secret from my grandfather, thinking it “I didn’t care at all,” says Josée. Louise, on the other would cause him pain. hand, was afraid that her special relationship with Josée

By Camille Aubin camille@columbiavalleypioneer.com

My parents used to hang out at school, covertly here and there, keeping it all as secret as possible. Louise’s mother and her older sister, who had also discovered the truth, repeatedly brought up to relationship with Josée, making Louise promise them that it was over, that she had cut off all contact with Josée. Louise told them it was, and she had, but in her mind, in her heart and in fact, it was not over at all.

Louise moved more than two hours away from the family home in order to start cégep (a post-secondary, pre-university educational establishment unique to the Quebec school system). There things changed. At first, Louise went back and forth every weekend to reunite with her family and help out on the farm. But one day, she decided to take her freedom in her hands. She had had enough of pretending to be someone that she was not. She’d had a small taste of being away from home, and seen the possibilities. She resolved to live life her way.

Louise told her parents that she would not be coming home for the weekend anymore. She packed her suitcases, left the family home despite her parents’ apparent sadness, and moved into Josée’s apartment.

It took a long time — a long long time — before my mother Louise and her parents rebuilt their relationship.

They called each other sometimes, but the conversations were cold and short. Then one fine day, something was different. My grandparents came to realization that it was not worth losing contact with their daughter over her choices. Slowly, very little by very little, they let Josée earn her place in the family.

But my parents weren’t done breaking down barriers. They wanted to start their own family. Many people told them it was impossible; biologically, it takes a mom and dad. Well, obviously, the naysayers were wrong about that too.

After discussing the matter with an acquaintance who happened to be a doctor, they learned that an idea that seemed far-fetched in the eyes of others was indeed feasible. “We asked him if we could have access to insemination, and the answer was yes,” says Louise. Louise and Josée embark on their new adventure, and a few months later Louise found out she was pregnant. The same pre-coming out doubts resurfaced: “What are the others going to say? What are Mom and Dad going to think?”

Continued on page 15...

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6 • The Columbia Valley Pioneer

May 13, 2021

PERSPECTIVE

Families diversity

Historical Lens

By Camille Aubin camille@columbiavalleypioneer.com Today’s family portraits don’t all look the same anymore. Nowadays, families are beautifully diverse. Many children are raised by a single parent or by same-sex parents. Some are adopted or raised by their grandparents, while others are living with their blended families. There is no doubt that each of them has the right to be acknowledged, respected and supported. Some families can inadvertently be excluded from certain celebrations such as Mother’s Day. It is very important for us to ensure that individuals within a modern family are appreciated and considered as parents.

We’ve been taught to categorize everything. We humans generally like to put ourselves into little boxes that describe us, like our gender and our sexual orientation.

We even like to categorize things with colours: stereotypically blue for boys, pink for girls. However, those categorizations don’t reflect the world we live in today. In fact, it never actually did, but we are much more aware of the diversity of people now than half a century ago.

Feelings about gender-specific events can vary between families. Teens and young children often have a hard time feeling different, resulting in an uncomfortable situation for them. Kids raised by two fathers may not feel comfortable at a Mother’s Day event if there is an activity centered on the mother. As an individual living in a community, we need to not assume that every family is heteroparental.

The purpose here is not to ignore Mother’s Day. Instead, it is to make it more inclusive. People may argue that it is “overly sensitive,” however, we need to consider the nuance of language and its effects on individuals and communities.

Our understanding of different kinds of families will become more inclusive as we talk more about them. Teach your children to recognize that people belong in diverse families. Teach them to esteem one another’s differences.

And last but not least, make sure that your children are exposed to diversity in their books, toys and movies.

Because I truly believe that stigma could one day end through education and by making this not-so-new diversity part of our society that I’ll share with you why I was that kid who, at school, hated Father’s Day celebration.

Read my story on page 5 and 15.

The Pioneer recognize May 17 as International Day Against Homophobia, Transphobia, and Biphobia. Speak out against homophobia, transphobia, and biphobia, and work toward ending stigma and supporting the health of LGBTQ2IA+ communities across Canada.

Log building, the Lady Elizabeth Memorial Hospital, now Pynelogs is covered with vines.

C2131, 1941, courtesy Widermere District Historical Society

Safety concerns regarding local highways Dear Editor: As vacation property owners in Radium Hot Springs, we always look forward to the beautiful drive through Kootenay National Park, but with the current travel restrictions, while understandably needed, has put us on hold temporarily.

A couple of Tuesdays ago, my wife and myself took a mid-day drive to Castle Mountain Junction to enjoy some mountain scenery but also to make a couple of observations. We wanted to see how many Alberta plated vehicles were Columbia Valley bound, ignoring Government health regulations, and also, with the present and ongoing Trans Canada highway upgrading, we wanted to measure the volume of heavy truck traffic travelling Highway 93. We were parked in the pull-off area just over the bridge focussing only on southbound traffic. In just a few minutes over one hour, we counted: 43 Alberta Vehicles, 100 Semi Trucks and four other Heavy Commercial Trucks.

The volume of heavy commercial traffic utilizing Highway 93 (and also the not so challenging Highway 95 portion of the detour) does present some major traffic concerns. Some drivers could be lacking sufficient two-lane mountain highway driving experience.

Not only do you have heavy vehicle traffic, maybe try-

ing to make up lost time travelling the same direction as yourself, you also have a similar volume of traffic coming towards you -sometimes on not so friendly curves.

We have all observed smaller vehicles with impatient drivers trying to pass slower vehicles when unsafe to do so. An example of this was the recent two-vehicle collision at the Kootenay Valley Lookout. Thankfully nobody was injured. Response times to any emergency in the Kootenay National Park are long, even with the Radium Fire Department extending its services.

The addition of two Parks Canada Emergency Satellite Phones is greatly welcomed, but both should have been installed prior to the start of the detour.

The RCMP has to increase their presence in both marked and unmarked vehicles to remind all users of the road to drive safely and always adjust to weather and road conditions. Lives are at stake, aand all levels of Government have to work collectively in every way possible to educate all drivers to make driving this magnificent highway safe for all.

Dave Halliday, Calgary Editors note: This letter was written prior to the May 8 fatal road accident near Paint Pots on Highway 93.

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

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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.

May 13, 2021

Columbia Valley paramedic helps out with Langley fire

trol, getting people outside of the hot zone, and helping get people evacuated. While helping one resident out of A local Columbia Valley woman the apartment, around to the side of the played an important role in keeping the apartment building, she realized an entire public safe during the massive fire in townhouse complex was in behind, and Langley a few weeks ago that destroyed a that many people there seemed unaware condo complex. of the blaze raging dangerously nearby.

Paramedic Allegra Newill lives in the The quick-thinking Newill took matColumbia Valley, but commutes to the ters into her own hands again and started Lower Mainland for work, something alerting and evacuating the townhouses. she’s been doing for eight years. Newill, “I was acting on instinct. I wouldn’t a 20-year BC Ambulance veteran, makes have done it, if I didn’t have a pretty good the long commute, leaving her two young idea how big the fire was going to go,” she kids back in the valley for two weeks at told the Pioneer. “I knew we had to get a time, in part because paramedic wages people out of those townhouses, that they in the Lower Mainland are considerably were in immediate danger, and that we higher than in the Columbia Valley, high had to start right away.” enough to qualify as a living wage.

Newill lost track of time during the Newill was incident, but in Langley on estimates it the night of took about half Sunday, April an hour to get 19. She and all the townher paramedhouse residents ic partner were safely away on their way to from the coma different call, plex. when they noIn all, ticed a firetruck more than 100 go past, moving people were fast – far faster displaced by than a firetruck the fire that normally would. night, with no They followed, fatalities and thinking the not even any firetruck was injuries, which going to the Newill termed same call. The absolute The photos shown here, snapped by Newill after “an firetruck arrived all the people in the apartment and townhome com- miracle.” at a different plex had been evacuated, do not show the full scale The pholocation — the of the massive blaze. Search online for ‘Langley fire’ to shown here, condo build- to see images depicting the size and scope of the inci- snapped by ings, which were dent.

Newill after all Submitted by Allegra Newill ablaze with huge the people in flames — than the pair’s original call, but the apartment and townhome complex Newill and her partner quickly realized had been evacuated, do not show the full their help would be needed here. They scale of the massive blaze. Search online called BC Ambulance dispatch, which for ‘Langley fire’ to see images depicting re-assigned them to the fire they were at, the size and scope of the incident. and dispatched other paramedics to the On April 30, Newill received a letter original call. from BC Emergency Health Services chief “When we arrived, the building was operating officer Darlene MacKinnon fully engulfed in fire,” Newill told the Pio- commending her for her actions. neer. “The sky was lit up and burning de“I would like to compliment you on bris was raining down.” using your experience and gut instinct to Newill has previous wildland and notice something didn’t seem right with structural firefighting experience before Fire First Responders (FFRs), and then and has a good understanding of fire be- quickly jumping into action. This is what haviour. She saw instantly that the situ- makes BCEHS a great service when we ation was quite severe, and those nearby have employees like you who have acute residents were in grave danger. The condo awareness of your surroundings and take building was not yet finished being built, appropriate action without request or exbut the apartment building nearby was pectation,” wrote MacKinnon. “I heard fully occupied, and Newill noticed that, how you alerted neighbours to evacuate although some people living in that build- and began crowd control. This demoning were starting to get out, they were do- stration of partnership with our FFR ing so slowly, apparently not completely colleagues, and the disposition to do aware of how big or how potentially dan- whatever it takes for the safety of others gerous the fire next door was. compelled me to write and personally recShe immediately began crowd con- ognize and thank you.”

By Steve Hubrecht steve@columbiavalleypioneer.com

The Columbia Valley Pioneer • 7

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8 • The Columbia Valley Pioneer

Columbia Valley Arts Council

Board Members Wanted The CVA currently has a set of three strong Directors prepared to stand for the 2021-2022 Board. CVA is financially sound, has 1.5 staff , new membership options, a new website and a strong post COVID plan to resume favourite arts programming.

Many familiar and popular programmes for students, seniors, music and film lovers are running. There are adventurous initiatives in the pipeline.

CVA needs committed, art lovers as Directors prepared to guide it into the future.

Join the CVA Board!

Contact the Secretary, Sharron Chatterton schatterton16@gmail.com or at 867-334-1875 to register you interest.

The Columbia Valley Food Bank Notice of Annual General Meeting The Annual General Meeting of the Columbia Valley Food Bank will be held on Thursday, May 20th, 12 noon via a virtual Zoom meeting.

All members, as well as the general public, are welcome to attend.

Board Nominations Nominations for the 2021/2022 Board of Directors will be accepted, in advance only, by the nominating committee. The deadline for receiving nominations is noon, Tuesday May 18th, at the Food Bank.

Please pick up nomination forms at the Food Bank.

You must be a member in good standing in order to be nominated. Membership is $1.

To obtain nomination forms or to be sent a Zoom link, contact us at 250-342-0850 or email: chairpersoncvfb@shaw.ca

HAVE YOUR SAY The Personal Information Protection Act governs the collection, use and disclosure of your personal information by private sector organizations.

A parliamentary committee is reviewing this Act and wants to hear what you think.

Register by June 4 to present to the Committee or share your thoughts in writing

by July 30.

For full details visit our website, email us at pipacommittee@leg.bc.ca, or call us toll-free at 1-877-428-8337 Special Committee to Review the Personal Information Protection Act

www.leg.bc.ca/cmt/pipa

May 13, 2021

Local resident pens account of epic escape from Cape Town to Cairo

for his extensive involvement with Panorama Mountain Resort (he’s an avid skier and even wrote The Hill That Became a Mountain, a history of the ski hill, which has Well-known and well-travelled Invermere resident been through five editions and sold more than 2,000 Andy Stuart-Hill has penned a book detailing the ex- copies). But longtime Pioneer readers may perhaps best ploits of one of his first — and one of his most colourful know Andy for being undoubtedly the most prolific lo— trips. Those who know Andy well, and even many of cal participant in the Pioneer’s long-running travel photo those who know him only casually, are no doubt raising contest (prior to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, of their eyebrows right about now, thinking ‘one of Andy course, which has put paid to international vacation travStuart-Hill’s most colourful escapades? That must be el). Andy has visited at least 150 countries (not counting some kind of trip...’ semi-autonomous territories, such as Hong Kong) and And indeed it was: a multi-month overland journey has set foot on all seven continents. in a converted bus from Cape Town to Cairo, and beA quick skim through the places he’s visited since reyond, that Andy, who was born in South Africa, made tiring (never mind the many places he managed to visit 1955 (when Andy was 22 and when overland travel of before retiring) reads like a list of far-flung locales that this type was many valley reshardly thought idents may very of ). Along the well never have way, Andy was even heard of: mistaken for a Mozambique blonde god, and and Mauritius, —— along with Bosnia and Bohis bus-mates — tswana, Islambattled through abad and Ionia, the rain-slicked Kuala Lumpur mud roads and and Kostroma. thick rainforest (Kostroma? of the Congo, What do you encountered limean you didn’t ons and other know of that wildlife, became quaint riverside mired in the vast Russian city, reedy swamps famed for its Andy on top of the Great Pyramid of Khufu, Egypt. The Great Pyramid is 481 of the Sudd (in feet high, is 4,400 years old, and,, for Andy, marked the completion of his “Cape to golden-domed what is now Cairo” goal. m o n a s t e r y, South Sudan), wooden houses followed along the banks of the mighty Nile, and became and wooden churches, and the surrounding oblast’s exstuck (again and again and again and again. And again) in perimental moose milk farm?), Lebanon and Latakia, of the soft, shifting sands of the Nubian desert (while a leaky course, Baalbek and Bcharre, the Red Fort and the River water tank slowly seeped out the group’s precious water Kwai, Mumbai and Mandalay, as well as Syria, Slovenia supply). He and friends wandered the winding alleyways and Slovakia (and, yes, Suva, Siwa, Suzhou, San Salvador, and souks of Khartoum and ancient Cairo, were acciden- Sentosa, Santa Anna and Saladin’s castle too). tally locked inside a pyramid at Giza, and for good meaIf you’re now picturing Andy duly crossing off counsure, were thrown in a jail cell after being mistaken for tries’ names on a big bucket list, you’re missing the point: spies in Algeria, while the Algerian civil war raged around Andy is not the type of traveler content to take in the them.

Andy main sights of a place, snap a few phomade time in tos and buy some souvenirs. On the the jail cell more contrary, he goes out of his way to soak enjoyable by dein as many experiences as he can, no manding better matter where he finds himself: In Chiwine to go with na he got up at 5 a.m. to practice tai dinner (which, chi with locals in Shanghai, then woke to his compana good deal earlier to follow a group of ions amazement, pilgrims walking up 6,293 steps to the he actually got), summit of holy mount Tai Shan, arrivbefore the group ing at the top just in time for sunrise. was deported In Bolivia, he was teargassed by police as refugees to during a local riot over rising propane France. prices. In Jordan, he camped out with It would Bedouin in the desert, marvelling at have been the the most star-studded night sky imagtrip of a lifetime inable. In Cyprus, he spent 10 days for most people, scrambling across the rocky Troodos but for Andy, it Mountains.

Mud roads in the Mitumba Mountains in the Congo. was just the beWhat’s his favourite destination? ginning of a lifeHis answer is quick and unequivocal: time of trips. Andy is well known in Invermere for many Antarctica, which Andy visited in December 2013 (a things: his two decades of work as secretary treasurer for photo of that trip appeared in the Pioneer’s travel photo the local school board, for marrying more than 500 cou- contest shortly after Andy returned home). ples during the decade he spent as one of the Columbia Valley’s most popular marriage commissioners, and Continued on page 9...

By Steve Hubrecht steve@columbiavalleypioneer.com

May 13, 2021 Continued ‘Cape Town to Cairo’ from page 8 “Antarctica is spectacular,” Andy told the Pioneer, adding the environment there is about as unspoiled by humans as it’s possible to for a place to be on Earth, and the frigid expanses are entrancing. Antarctica, though very cold, is, in fact, a desert, owing to the fact that precipitation rarely falls there. Andy is quick to note, pointing out that he has long been fascinated by deserts of all types.

“With deserts, there’s something about the dust and heat that intrigues me to no end. The peace, the tranquility, the emptiness,” he said. “They really are magic places.”

Andy has chased and found this magic all over the globe, visiting such famous deserts as the Sahara, the Libyan Desert, Egypt’s Western Desert, the Kalahari, the Karoo, the Namib, and the Nubian Desert (all in Africa); Wadi Rum, the Rub’ al-Khali (better known as the Empty Quarter), the Syrian Desert, the Negev, and Petra (all in the Middle East), the Great Victoria Desert and the Simpson Desert (in Australia); the Great Basin, the Chihuahuan, Sonoran, Colorado, Yuma and Mojave Deserts (all in North America); the Atacama and Patagonian Deserts (both in South America), and of course, Antarctica.

Riding Camels at the pyramids in Egypt.

What compels Andy to seek out the ends of the Earth?

“I’m not 100 per cent sure. It’s in my nature,” he told the Pioneer. “If everybody goes to the left, I go to the right. I’ve always been that way.”

As a kid growing up in South Africa, Andy was heavily involved in Scouts, hiking, camping and spending plenty of time outdoors. By the time he was 16 or 17 years old, he was spelunking in the Sterkfontein Caves (spelunking is the hobby — or a sport depending on your perspective — that entails climbing in, clambering through and otherwise thoroughly investigating underground caves).

Most people would be inclined to call this Andy’s first true travel experience — except Andy himself hesitates to count his underground exploits as ‘travel’ per se, since he was still a teenager, and since he grew up nearby, and by his own estimation he was just mucking about in his backyard. As much as Andy might play it down, there’s no doubt that ‘mucking about’ of that sort is an intrepid, venturesome undertaking. And it’s worth pointing out that the Sterkfontein Caves are not just any old holes in the ground — these limestone caverns, known as the Cradle of Mankind, are a World Heritage site, renowned for containing early hominin fossils, including Australopithecus, early Homo and Paranthropus. The teenage Andy routinely came across the fossils, and eventually began acting as amateur guide for paleo-anthropologists who were studying the remains of these ancient human ancestors. This experience sparked a lifelong love for paleo-anthropology in Andy.

After his great Capetown-to-Cairo trip, Andy spent five and half footloose years working around Europe and North America, before returning home to Krugersdorp, South Africa. There, in 1962, he married Kelly, now his wife of nearly 60 years. The couple emigrated first to London, and then to Canada, arriving in Yellowknife, where Andy, who had experience in Krugersdorp’s gold

The Columbia Valley Pioneer • 9 mine, got work at Giant Yellowknife gold mines, helping who found the location for the new David Thompson preparing and transport poured gold bricks (worth mil- Secondary School (he found it by doing what he does lions of dollars) alone from the mine to the Yellowknife best: rambling around in the bush off the beaten trail), post office. His first summer in Yellowknife also involved although it wasn’t until later that the land was purchased working with an exploration crew in the barren high Arc- and the new high school built. The couple’s kids — Trevtic tundra, where he got to live with a local Inuit family, or and Lynneth — eventually grew up, left for postsecan experience he much enjoyed. ondary school and started families of their own (Andy Andy worked several and Kelly now have four grandother natural resource-rekids: Taren, Cailyn, Cianna and lated jobs across western Ryan.

Canada, before moving For decades Andy was ofto Invermere, with Kelfered lucrative offers to work ly and their two young as secretary-treasurer at other kids, in 1967 to take the school boards elsewhere in B.C., local school board secrebut kept turning them down tary-treasurer position. because he and Kelly couldn’t And it was here in the imagine tearing their family Columbia Valley that the away from Invermere. Finally, in man with a passion to see 1987 he took a job in Creston, On board the Algerian Civil War refugee boat, en working there for nearly six years the whole world found the perfect place to call home. route to Marseilles, France (via Sardinia and Corsica) until retiring and then promptly “We just loved it after Andy and his companions had been deported. moved right back to the valley. here,” Andy told the Pioneer. “We realized it had all the As you might expect, retirement for Andy has been recreation we could ever want right here, and that it was anything but idle. Aside from the extensive travelling, he a great place to bring up our children. In hindsight, it still volunteers (he was chair of the Invermere District was a very wise decision. It’s been absolutely ideal for us. hospital board in 1997, and chair of the East Kootenay We fell in love with the nature that defines the Columbia Regional hospital board in 1998 and 1999), and he’s still Valley, and we found a truly wonderful community. We very active physically. He participated in B.C. Seniors’ fit right in and never looked back.”

Games as a swimmer 10 times between 1989 and 2000, In 1970 they bought the lot on 9th Avenue and built winning 43 medals, 20 of which were gold, and at age the house they still live in to this day. You can’t miss their 88, he’s still skiing Panorama each winter (this season place: the house at 1746 exudes a warm, well-cared for was his 54th at the hill). That still left him leftover time cheerfulness that completely matches the homeowners, in which to perform 500-plus wedding ceremonies as a and its spot perched at the top of 9th offers marvellous marriage commissioner between 2004 and 2014, and views in all directions. When Andy and Kelly bought to pen both The Hill That Became a Mountain and his the lot, the Wilder subdivision was brand spanking new, Cape to Cairo account. having just been converted from a golf course. Their lot Pioneer readers intrigued to learn more details about was the former eighth green. They figured they’d have Andy’s Cape to Cairo journey will be delighted to know to spend $1,200 to $1,300 to own it. The owner asked that the Pioneer will be running the story in its entirety, in $800 and the couple’s eyebrows shot up, surprised at the semi-regular serialized instalments. Stay tuned to future outstanding bargain. Thinking the couple’s reaction was issues for the first one. one of shock at a high price, the owner quickly dropped down to $750. Andy and Kelly wasted no time in signing the deal.

Winters passed in a blur of skiing, skating and other snowy fun. Summers went much the same with swimming, hiking and golfing.

Throughout it all Andy volThe Regional District of East Kootenay, requests quotes for the Operation and Maintenance of unteered as much as a perTrail Sections 1-3 on the Markin-MacPhail Westside Legacy Trail. Work is estimated to be son can, with the Masons, around 12 hours per week from May to October. with the Rotary Club (he Contact: Colin Peet Columbia Valley Recreation Services Superintendent was president of the Invercpeet@rdek.bc.ca mere branch in 1982 and 1983), with the Windermere Valley Scout Group (he was NOMINATIONS district commissioner), and NOW OPEN with countless other organizations. At work, as school board secretary-treasurer Andy was constantly busy, figuring out the logistics of Nomination Deadline is many major school changes FRIDAY, MAY 21 at 4:30 pm in valley, including closing the old Galena ElementaNominees must be a resident of an Electoral ry School, closing the old Area and make voluntary contributions to Brisco Elementary School, the spirit, culture or people of the community.

Nomination forms are now available at our closing the old Wilmer Cranbrook & Columbia Valley RDEK offices and school; building the Radium on: engage.rdek.bc.ca/volunteer Elementary School (which then later closed after Andy retired) and building Martin Morigeau Elementary 1-888-478-7335 | www.rdek.bc.ca School. He even was the one

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10 • The Columbia Valley Pioneer

May 13, 2021

We thank our local nurses!

Real heroes don’t wear capes.

They wear scrubs, work in a hospital and are called Nurses.

Save one life and you’re a hero.

Save a hundred lives and you’re a nurse.

We would like to recognize all the hard work that our front line nurses do 24/7. Thanks for being such dedicated caregivers our nurses in Invermere are the best!

Thank you for being our Super Heroes!

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May 13, 2021

The Columbia Valley Pioneer • 11

Local nurses deserve a round of applause

Pioneer staff info@columbiavalleypioneer.com Nursing awareness week (which this year is May 10 to May 16) brings public, policy-makers and leaders of the nation’s governments together to recognize the valuable contributions nurses make to the health and well-being of all Canadians.

Five decades ago, in 1971, the International Council of Nurses (ICN) recognized May 12 as International Nurses Day, the anniversary of British nurse, statistician, and social reformer Florence Nightingale’s birthday. Nightingale, often considered the founder of modern nursing, was born May 12, 1820. Members of the Canadian Nurse Association passed a resolution in 1985 encouraging the federal government to formally recognize the week including May 12 as National Nurses Week each year. The federal health minister soon afterwards proclaimed the second week of May as National Nurses Week.

We have become aware, more than ever, of the importance of the nursing profession. The COVID-19 pandemic has been difficult for everyone, but those working with challenging conditions in hospitals have, of course, dealt with a good deal more difficulties this past year than most people.

In January 2021, the ICN sent out a press release that drew attention to the physical effects resulting from responding to the COVID-19 pandemic and the impact of mental health on nurses. As a result, ICN has called this phenomenon “mass traumatization” for the nursing workforce in general and urged governments to act in support of nurses and handle these issues immediately. COVID-19 is real, and threatens to harm nursing professions for generations to come. Added to nurse staffing shortages and an aging nursing workforce, the COVID-19 effect could lead to a 13 million nurse shortfall by 2030, according to ICN. More than 90 per cent of the National Nursing Assessment Service (NNAS) worry that heavy workloads and inadequate resourcing, burnout and stress related to pandemic response could be the main reasons for the increased number of nurses who are leaving their profession, and the reported rate of intent to leave.

Nurses are an essential part of almost every health care team, as they play key roles in promoting healthy lifestyles, preventing and tackling diseases of all types, and treating sick people. The Pioneer wishes to thank all of our local nurses for what they are doing during this difficult time for us, our families, friends and our community.

uch m o s g n i t i n g h t t u y r …for p e v e o a l l e t r n a i hear t u o Y ! ! o d d e t you a i c e N CE r E L p L ap EXCE T U I P U R S

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Some wear scrubs!

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12 • The Columbia Valley Pioneer

We thank our local nurses!

May 13, 2021

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They may forget your name, but they’ll never forget how you made them feel.

– Maya Angelou

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Thursday, May 13 • 9 am: Strong Start at Martin Morigeau. Please email any questions or to reserve your space at skalesnikoff@cbal.org or call 250-409-4251.

• 9:30 am: Momfit. Moms are invited to join a weekly morning workout, hosted

by Invermere’s Momfit & Preschool Play Group. Kid-friendly! Due to COVID-19 restrictions, sessions are held via Zoom.

• 11:30 – 1:30 pm: Seniors’ Lunch. Seniors are invited to enjoy a soup, sandwich and good company at the Invermere Legion. $5. Reservation only with a maximum of 50 guests. Social distancing required. Reservations via Jan Brydon at 250-3421196, Reservation cut-off Tuesday. NO WALK-INS. • 3:30 – 9 pm: Invermere’s Summit Youth Hub Centre welcomes Columbia Valley kids Grade 6/7 (Curry) + Grade 11 to drop by for free fun, games, music and much more. Please note the cohort schedule and follow the centre’s guidelines. www. facebook.com/summityouthcentre • 5 – 6:30 pm: Basin Youth Network Job Readiness Online Workshop. Sign up now for a free 3-session Basin Youth Network Job Readiness Workshop where you will gain valuable skills to get you ready for your next job! Register at www.kcds.ca/ basin-youth-network-registrations.

• 7 – 8 pm: Wings Over the Rockies with Brian Keating. Tickets $10. In this presentation, Brian will illustrate some of the wild landscapes he has explored and learned from during this past year, both near and far. Tickets may be purchased until the deadline of 6 pm the day before the live presentation. The same email described above will be sent to you. www.wingsovertherockies.org/all-events/

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• 9 am: Strong Start at Edgewater Elementary. Please email any questions or to reserve your space at skalesnikoff@cbal.org or call 250-409-4251.

• 10:30 am: Virtual Story Time by the Invermere Public Library. Tune in each Friday morning at 10:30 am for live stories and songs! Find the videos on our Facebook page. Find a craft kit at the front door of the library each week after story time!

Aimed at preschool age, but all are welcome to tune in!

• 1:30 – 7 pm: Invermere’s Summit Youth Hub Centre welcomes Columbia Valley kids Grade 8 ans 12 to drop by for free fun, games, music and much more. Please note the cohort schedule and follow the centre’s guidelines. www.facebook.com/ summityouthcentre • 6 pm: Bingo Online – streaming on Face Book. Go to ‘Rotary Community Online Bingo’ for playing instructions, and buy cards at https://folden-rotary.myshopify. com

Saturday, May 15 • 10 am - 3 pm: Hospice Swims the Lake! On July 8th 2021, 7 am three brave Hospice volunteer swimmers will leave Lakeshore Campground to James Chabot Beach in Invermere. To add to the fun of the challenge, The Hospice Society will sell Raffle Tickets, starting April 3rd until July 3rd (or sold out) every Saturday at Home Hardware from 10 to 3. Tickets are as follows: 1 for $10, 3 for $20. Visit www. hospicesocietycv.com for a complete list of prizes and donors.

• 11 am – 3 pm: Groundswell Plant Sale. Tomatoes, herbs, variety of vegetables and special selection of flowers. Cash, cheque, e-transfer preferred. Social distancing in effect. www.facebook.com/Groundswell.Network/ • 7 – 8 pm: Wings Over the Rockies: The Wonder of a Penguin Summer, with Alex Taylor. $10/household. Buy tickets online: www.wingsovertherockies.org/allevents/. Tickets may be purchased until the deadline of 6 pm the day before the live presentation.

Sunday, May 16 • 10 - 6 pm: Bottle Drive: Rotary Fundraiser. the Rotary Club collects refundable bottles and cans at the Invermere Transfer Station. Drop off your bottles at the designated bin near exit. We sort and deliver for refund - this money goes “right back into the community” through our Projects and Initiatives.

Monday, May 17 • 10 - 6 pm: Bottle Drive: Rotary Fundraiser. the Rotary Club collects refundable bottles and cans at the Invermere Transfer Station. Drop off your bottles at the designated bin near exit. We sort and deliver for refund - this money goes “right back into the community” through our Projects and Initiatives.

• 10:30 am: Rhyme Time by Columbia Basin Alliance for Literacy. If you are a parent or caregiver of a child under 2 years old, come and learn some fun songs, rhymes and stories with us! Email skalesnikoff@cbal.org for the Zoom link.

• 5 – 9 pm: Strong Start at Eileen Madson Primary School, Invermere. Please email any questions or to reserve your space at skalesnikoff@cbal.org or call 250-4094251.

Tuesday, May 18 • 9 am: Strong Start at Edgewater Elementary. Please email any questions or to reserve your space at skalesnikoff@cbal.org or call 250-409-4251.

• 3:30 – 9 pm: Invermere’s Summit Youth Hub Centre welcomes Columbia Valley kids Grade 6/7 (P&A) + Grade 9 to drop by for free fun, games, music and much more. Please note the cohort schedule and follow the centre’s guidelines. www. facebook.com/summityouthcentre • 6 – 7:30 pm: Online Youth Night. Hey teens! For the month of May we will be doing an online activity every Tuesday. Sign up for one or all of the events. Contact Angela Miller at 250-341-5216 or Columbiavalleyyouthnetwork@hotmail.com to sign up. Kits will be available for each event, delivery can be arranged for outer Communities if needed.

Wednesday, May 19 • 9 am: Strong Start at Eileen Madson Primary School, Invermere. Please email any questions or to reserve your space at skalesnikoff@cbal.org or call 250-409-4251.

• 10:30 -11:30 am: Seniors & Elders Catch – Family Dynamix hosts a Catch-up Cafe for the Columbia Valley every Wednesday morning on ZOOM for those isolated and unable to get out as much because of COVID-19. Contact Tricia at patkin@familydynamix.ca for safe login instructions. Even if you are unfamiliar with ZOOM video conferencing, we can help you get inexpensive internet and get you logged on!

• 3:30 – 9 pm: Invermere’s Summit Youth Hub Centre welcomes Columbia Valley kids Grade 6/7 (P&A) + Grade 9 to drop by for free fun, games, music and much more. Please note the cohort schedule and follow the centre’s guidelines. www. facebook.com/summityouthcentre • 5 – 7 pm: The very popular Wednesday evening Farmers Market begins a new season with a quality selection of local food, produce, beef, baking and much more. Evening meal by “From Scratch Mountain Kitchen.“ Find us on the Agri Park, Highway 93/95 kiticorner to Tim Hortons, Windermere. We still have some space for new qualifying vendors. Please email: farmersmarket959@gmail.com for more information.

Have your event added by visiting www.cvevents.ca or email info@columbiavalleypioneer.com

May 13, 2021

The Columbia Valley Pioneer • 13

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

May 10th – 16th • 2021

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

This year’s theme is Inspired by Nature

Products and Services Available 7 Days a Week

For program information and to register: www.WingsOverTheRockies.org

Concrete Sales ~ Concrete Pump ~ Sand and Gravel Sales

CO NC RE T E

JOIN YOUR CHAMBER AND REAP THE REWARDS! P. 250-342-2844 E. membership@cvchamber.com

250-341-7474

CONCRETE

• Foundations to Finishing • Flat Work • Driveways • Patios • Stamped and Exposed Aggregate Concrete • Sidewalks • Garages • Foundations • Excavation • Site Preparation • Utility Installation

Electrical and Bedding Sand ~ $9/tonne

READY MIX CONCRETE

Columbia Concrete Inc.

Concrete Pump • Sand & Gravel Heavy Equipment Rentals • Crane Service

20 years’ experience • Anything concrete!

Proudly Serving the Valley for over 50 years

• • • •

Basements Garage pads Driveways Patios

• • • •

WE RESEAL CONCRETE

250-688-3739

Serving the Columbia Valley

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

Call NOW:

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

Decorative Exposed Stamped concrete Acid staining

• 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 Visit www.heavensbest.com for more information

250-688-0213

CONTRACTING

Big Cat Painting For all your painting needs!

250-688-9418 • www.bigcatpainting.ca Serving the East Kootenay area!

Kekuli Bay Cabinetry kekulibaycabinetry.com

I N

P U R S U I T

O F

EXCELLENCE Skandia Concrete • Manufacturers & suppliers of quality concrete & gravel products • Experienced, professional operators and the right equipment to get your job done • Serving the valley for over 30 years

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

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

CONTRACTING

TILE AND GROUT CLEANING Business: 250-342-9692

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

Cell: 250-342-1273

ptarmiganrugclean@gmail.com

N E W S PA P E R

For all your advertising needs, call 250-341-6299

• Authorized dealer • Designer • Installer

Dale Elliott Contracting

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

dale@decontracting.ca • 250-341-7098

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

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

14 • The Columbia Valley Pioneer

May 13, 2021

HERE TO SERVE YOU

CONTRACTING

INSURANCE

INSURANCE

INTERIOR • EXTERIOR • WALL COVERINGS

Gary’s

Seniors Discounts

Professional Painting & Decorating Ltd. 1978

INSURANCE AGENCIES LTD.

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

CUSTOM WOOD FINISHING FAUX FINISHES JOURNEYMAN RED SEAL

FREE Estimates

www.kootenayinsurance.ca

403-650-4622 • garysptg@gmail.com

House Doctors Contracting

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

housedoctorcontracting@yahoo.com Dave Drouin – 519-995-1630 Mike Shelson – 519-566-9745

GOLDEN, BC 250-344-0188

GET YOUR QUOTE AT WWW.GREENLEAFTREE.CA INFO@GREENLEAFTREE.CA

R O O T E D I N T H E C O L U M B I A VA L L E Y S I N C E 2 0 0 7

Specializing in all heating, electric, gas and wood.

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

SERVICES

We also offer roundthe-clock service calls.

A licensed, registered and bonded company

2016

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

There’s a new ‘Sucker’ in town!

Vacuum/ Septic tank pumping

Slurpy

Registered ROWP Serving all areas from Wasa to Golden

MOUNTAIN RIDGE HYDROVAC & SEWER 250-342-1502 • 250-342-1551

Patryk Jagiello STAIN/LACQUER/PAINT INTERIOR/EXTERIOR patco_dev@shaw.ca

(250) 270-0345

Landscaping&&Design Design Landscaping Landscaping & Design Trucking Excavating • •Trucking ••Excavating Trucking • Excavating •• Civil Earthworks • Civil Earthworks

• FireSmart• Equipment Civil Earthworks 62”x74” Brushcutter

Quality not quantity Sue Coy

250-341-5353 sdcoy@shaw.ca

Lloyd Wilder

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

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

Ph: 250-688-ROLL (7655) LetUsRoll4U@Gmail.com

Spring Cleaning • Lawn Maintenance

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

Serving the Valley for over 20 years!

Commercial Residential

Fully Insured

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

CLEANING & MAINTENANCE ON ALL WOOD BURNING APPLIANCES • WETT INSPECTIONS

Sales ~ Service ~ Installation

PROFESSIONAL PAINTERS

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

HOW WE ROLL

20 years experience • Satisfaction guaranteed!

Patco Developments Ltd.

LAMBERT-KIPP

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

SERVICES

in Calgary since 2002 in Invermere since 2004

PHARMACIES

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

LANDSCAPING

Custom Kitchens, Bathrooms and Interior Renovations

www.hd-contracting.ca

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

Scott Postlethwaite

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

Free Estimates

invermereelectric@gmail.com

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

UNIVERSAL DOORS & EXTERIORS Arnold Scheffer 250-342-6700

unidoorext@live.ca • unidoorext.ca

Industrial ~ Commercial ~ Residential

Got a beef?

Write a letter to the editor. Email letters to info@columbiavalleypioneer.com .

May 13, 2021

The Columbia Valley Pioneer • 15 Louise believes that coming out is still very difficult for some people today. Depending on a person’s personality and the openness of parents, family and friends, the fear of being judged or even of disappointing remains present.

So what can we do to de-stigmatize homosexuality? I sincerely believe that it is by discussing it openly as I do through this story. It is also by having better representation of the diversity to be found across our society in Canada. We as a country may be at a moment not altogether different than the moment when my whole family — my parents in particular — were nervous about walking down the aisle at the Parents of the Year celebration for my grandparents. Canada as whole, I’m certain, need not be nervous. After the ceremony was over, my grandmother was pleasantly surprised by the number of open-minded people she met that day. Suddenly they weren’t alone anymore. Suddenly, diversity was all around them. They learned and evolved. This is the path our country has begun to take, is in the process of taking, and must continue to take if Canada is to match up to the ideals it espouses for itself. It has to happen everywhere: in big cities like Toronto and Calgary. In small towns like Mont-Laurier and in Invermere. And in all the places in between.

The more we do to include diversity in our lives, in our media, in television shows, in politics, everywhere, the more people get the opportunity to learn and a chance to open their minds.

My same-sex parents do not blame their extended families who once opposed their relationships, nor do they blame those who thought it was unhealthy to have a family with two mothers, or two fathers. Why? Those people simply did not understand what they rejected. The unknown is scary. But we can move past scary. That’s what makes humans so awesome, our ability to learn from experiences and evolve. We are opening up to new possibilities and learn about many wonderful new realities.

Continued ‘love openly’ from page 5 One evening, they went to dinner with Louise’s parents to tell them the news. After they finished eating, it was time for the big announcement. And then… not a sound. How could their daughter be pregnant when she was dating a girl? Louise and Josée needed to explain how medical insemination works. My grandparents were overjoyed with the news after learning the explanation. Soon, they would welcome another grandchild into the family.

A few months later, Louise’s oldest sister called my mother to tell her that a celebration would be held for their parents. My grandparents had been named ‘parents of the year’ in Mont-Laurier. It was going to be a special event, and every one of their children had to be present with their spouse and their own children — this time, no more hiding. Josée and Louise, whose belly was so prominently, mistakably pregnant, walked hand in hand in front of a crowd of people. To everyone’s surprise, the applause was intense as my mothers passed by. It was a relief and a milestone for my grandparents. After the ceremony, some people came to see them saying “One of your twins loves women? Well, me too!” And another one exclaimed “My nephew loves a man too,” explained Louise. Suddenly my parents were no longer alone, and neither were my grandparents. Others, like them, had relationships hidden from the eyes of others.

Not very long after this joyful event, I saw my first light. I was born into a family where the parents are two mothers, and if you’re not convinced yet, let me tell you straight up that Josée, Camille, Louise in Jasper National Park.

I am doing very well! I was fortunate to be surYou may be surprised to learn that it was not until rounded by a loving family, who today accept 1990 that homosexuality was taken off the list of meneach other for who they really are.

Certainly, since the beginning of my parents’ love tal illnesses by the World Health Organization. In 2002, story, the opinion of Canadian society has changed a lot. adoption by a same-sex couple became legal in Quebec.

The evolution of views and social mores has led to the In B.C., things happened a bit more quickly and adopdevelopment of new laws. Welcome laws they are indeed, tion for same-sex parents was legalized in 1996. And it and the only thing to regret is that most of them are quite wasn’t until 2005 that marriage became legal for same-sex recent and that it took so long to implement in them in couples in Canada. My parents had already been together for 24 years at the time! the first place.

HERE TO SERVE YOU SERVICES

SERVICES

WINDOW COVERINGS SHOWROOM

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

Kootenay Paving • • • •

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

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

KITCHEN CABINETS & COUNTER TOPS

Toll Free 1-888-341-2221

Kootenay Paving Toll Free 1-888-341-2221

Call now for a free quote!

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

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

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

SERVICE EXCELLENCE IN THE COLUMBIA VALLEY

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

16 • The Columbia Valley Pioneer

May 13, 2021

P ioneer C lassifieds

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

NOTE: Cheers Without Tears has replaced Cheers & Jeers ~ Let’s highlight the positive!

S

OBITUARY

S

Charette, Herman Richard October 27, 1957 – April 17, 2021

Herman Richard Charette (63) born Oct. 27th, 1957. He preferred to go by Richard, Rick, Herm, and most of all, Dad. A life rich with experience was cut short far too soon, and after a courageous battle Rick left us on Apr. 17th, 2021 surrounded by the loves of his life - his children.

GARAGE SALES

ANNOUNCEMENT

Yard Sale 8915 Shaughnessy St. Canal Flats. Lots of good stuff from household, farm and shop.

All has to go! May 15th and 16th all day long.

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.

ANNOUNCEMENT

Always one to have a smile on his face, a joke to share, a hand to help, and an ear to listen, Rick was happiest among family.

Rick was predeceased by his mother (Mettie), brothers (Ron and Greg), and sister (Cindy). He is survived by his father (Leo), brothers (Glen, Rodney and Bradley), his children (Brian, Becky, Eli and Evan), his many nieces, nephews, and great nieces and nephews. Know forever that he thought the world of you all and loved you dearly.

To his A&W gang, his day wasn’t complete without sharing coffee, friendship and laughs with you.

Love you, bye.

CALLING ALL ARTISTS

Steamboat Mountain Music Festival’s 10th Anniversary

CD Album Cover DESIGN CONTEST The Album’s Title is

Speta, Charles ‘Kelly’ It is with heavy hearts we announce the sudden passing of Charles ‘Kelly’ Speta on April 30, 2021 in his home at the age of 77.

Kelly was born in Tesany, Czechoslovakia, lived in Germany until he was 10 then immigrated with his family to Canada in 1953, eventually settling in the Windermere Valley. Kelly became a journeyman mechanic and met his wife Rae (Howie) and they married in 1967. Soon after, they settled down in Calgary to raise their family. Kelly worked at Greyhound Canada for 25 years and retired as the Director of Maintenance. The call of the country was too loud to ignore, so Kelly and Rae moved to Clearwater County in 1999. They were involved with the Central Alberta Antique and Collector Club and made many great friends in the area. Happily living on their acreage until their final days, as they had always wished it to be. After Mom’s passing Dad was surrounded by a community of friends, homecare and private caregivers which allowed Dad to maintain his independence at home which he and we are truly grateful for.

Kelly was predeceased by wife Rae in 2012, his parents Johanna and William, and brothers Kurt, Tom and Ron. He is survived by his two children and their families: Rosi (Tom) Morgan (Jasper, Tanner, Maisy and Jensen), Mike (Linda) Speta (Karl, Thomas and Anthony); his siblings: Bill, Jannie, Carol, Rose, Bob and Ernie; Rae’s siblings: Robert (Roberta), Sheila (Butch), James (Kathy) and Gordon; and a vast expansion of nieces and nephews.

Should friends desire, a donation in Kelly’s name can be made to a charity of your choice or to The ROAR Society in Rocky Mountain House.

Condolences may be forwarded to: www.rockyfuneralhome.ca Rocky and Sylvan Lake Funeral Homes and Crematorium, your Golden Rule Funeral Homes, entrusted with the arrangements, 403-845-2626.

Have a sports story idea?

Email in info@columbiavalleypioneer.com

Shake A Tree

Inspired by Mickey Maione’s quip, “Shake any tree in Edgewater and a musician will fall out.”

Artist of Winning Design will be awarded $250 prize The winning design will be used on the album.

Deadline for submissions June 20th, 2021 Email submissions to: steamboatmtnmusicfest @gmail.com Or mail to: Steamboat Mountain Music Society Box 247 Edgewater, BC V0A 1E0

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

CHEERS WITHOUT TEARS Cheers to Toni and Gord Broadfoot for all the love and support you give to The Wilmer Community Club!

Cheers to Nick who is keeping people observed for 15 minutes after they received their COVID-19 immunization. A big commitment we felt very safe.

Cheers to Chevy of Kootenay Water for the first class service you give to our water softener.

You are always so friendly and helpful. No task is too much.

Keep up the good work!

S OBITUARY S Reuther, Erna May

CHEERS WITHOUT TEARS

CHEERS WITHOUT TEARS

Cheers to Corbin and John at Columbia Cycle and Ski for providing me with excellent customer service. They set up my new e-bike with the comfortable seat and peddles from my old mountain bike. I even retired my retro 80s style helmet and was properly fitted with a new safer helmet. Shop local to get trusted service and competitive pricing.

LISTINGS NEEDED!

Cheers to Gwen Stewart for being such a loyal, caring home care nurse. You bring a ray of sunshine to us every week and we appreciate everything you do.

I WANT TO SELL YOUR HOUSE!

WHY LIST WITH GERRY? ✔ Website/Social Media ✔ 3D Tour, YouTube, Drone ✔ Responsive, Local, Expert

LIST WITH GERRY: FOR RESULTS! *Not intended to solicit those already working with an agent.

BUYING OR SELLING CALL 250-341-1202

gerrytaft.ca Personal Real Estate Corporation

Many Cheers to the person who found my Garmin watch at the Windermere Land Fill and turned it in to The Pioneer. Seems like a miracle. Much appreciated!

Cheers to all of the residents and volunteers that participated in the Wilmer FireSmart clip and chip weekend. It was a huge success! Cheers to Sobeys for feeding the volunteers!

Cheers to Nick and Luke from the local Fire Department for volunteering at the mass immunization clinic. So very kind of you!

Please email classified ads to info@columbiavalleypioneer.com

Rockies West Realty Independently owned and operated

LOST AND FOUND FOUND: Amazon Prime delivery for Francis Cote to the wrong address. If you are missing an Amazon Prime delivery expecting April 23/21, contact me at 1-403-875-7329 and identify and I’ll tell you how you can come pick it up.

ACCOMMODATION WANTED Retired Bachelor seeking Rural Rent or Care taking accommodation. No Vices, references can be provided.

1-250-426-4445.

THANK YOU

Thank you!

August 12, 1949 – May 5, 2021

Thank you to our family and friends for their love and support after the recent passing of our beloved husband, father, and grandfather, John Shaw.

Erna was a long-time valley resident and known to many in the Valley.

Erna passed away peacefully.

Thank you to everyone for the calls, cards, flowers, food and donations to Invermere Fire Rescue.

Your kindness is greatly appreciated.

For full details and to view her obit(s) and details of her life please go to Choicememorial.com, and the Calgary Herald.

Our family would like to thank the wonderful staff of Columbia House for the excellent care given to John. He was always treated with kindness and respect, and so was our family.

And thank you to Dr. Mannheimer for his many years of care.

John loved his community and will be greatly missed.

Marg Shaw and family.

May 13, 2021

The Columbia Valley Pioneer • 17

COMMERCIAL SPACE

CONDO FOR SALE

Invermere Downtown FOR LEASE PREMISES 2,400 square feet of Commercial zoned C-1 space, 9-foot ceilings, east-facing with generous private parking.

- Location: 712 -10th Street, UNIT “D” street level, bounded on two sides by roadways.

- Includes 4 offices, sales/ board meeting room, generous open space with divider, storage room.

- Equipped with 2 washrooms and a kitchen area.

- BC Hydroelectric forced air with auxiliary heat pump.

- Two separate entrances.

OPTIONALITY: The space can divide to accommodate two businesses.

Contact: M&B Properties 250-341-1940 or bruce@brucem.com

LOT/ACREAGE FOR SALE

BUYING OR SELLING? DOWNTOWN INVERMERE Buy your piece of the CONDO (BY OWNER) Invermere Valley before $165,000 prices go nuts!

Buy your piece of the Top Floor unit, 2-bedroom, Invermere Valley before 1 bath 825 sq. ft., In suite prices go nuts! laundry, Warm2 bedroom, Sunny Top Floor unit. views, 1balcony, bath 985Mountain sq. ft., in-suite Lots of parking, low low laundry, Warm sunny condo fee’s, Small complex balcony, mountain views, (20 units) with large Lots of parking, low treed low site area.

Awesome location condo fee’s, small complex only units) steps towith Downtown and (20 large treed the Beach, currently rented site area. Awesome location for $1000.00, PRICED TO SELL only steps to Downtown and the beach, currently rented AT $195,000 Call 403-402for $1000.00, PRICED TO SELL 7505 or email rjfaulds1@ AT $165,000 Call 403-402gmail.com.

7505 or email rjfaulds1@ gmail.com

MISC. FOR SALE

Top Quality Hay Round bales.

Indoor bales $120 per bale, outdoor bales $60 per bale.

Round bales of straw, $40 per bale. Phone Elkhorn Ranch 250342-1268.

LEGAL NOTICES

Court Bailiff Land Sale

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 WANTED A local artist and woodworker is looking for a double garage or shop to rent in Radium, Invermere, Windermere or Fairmont. Preferably with 220 electrical service. Ideal size would be between 750 - 1500 square feet. Willing to share a space as well. Call Don 1-403875-3587.

MISC. FOR SALE ZEHNDER BEEF Natural local beef, free of antibiotics and hormones.

Government inspected, locally processed. Raised on the open range west of Lake Windermere.

Now taking orders for Halves and Quarters. Call John Zehnder 250-688-0713.

VEHICLES FOR SALE

SERVICES

SERVICES

Subaru Forester 2008. $1000.

Blue; 189,000 kms; manual transmission. Needs about $3,000 in repairs within the next year. Comes with full set winter tires. Buy as is. Call 250-6881042.

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

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

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

It’s time to get your tools tuned up and ready for spring!

Industrial #2 Road across from NAPA Hours: Tuesday - Friday 9 a.m. - 5 p.m.

Saturday 10 a.m. - 3 p.m.

250-341-2551 Offering Excellent Service & Fair Pricing!

Lot 14, Pedley Heights Drive, Windermere; PID 027 170 969.

For information contact Canada West Court Bailiff, 250-545-7333

BUSINESS FOR SALE

Successful business for sale!

Owner is relocating to the Prairies due to family commitments...

Priced to sell!

Asking price includes all equipment, leasehold improvements, and affordable 5-year fixed lease; as well as a great reputation and local following due to a successful 14 years of operation. Turn-key ownership; full management and support staff in place. Lovely 3,500 sq. foot space with 9 treatment rooms, 2 full bathrooms with showers and lockers, 2 soaker tubs, a sauna, guest lounge and large bright retail space... endless options!

For questions or viewing appointments contact 250-688-0634.

Priced for quick take-over... don’t let this opportunity pass you by!

Serious inquiries only please.

General Carpenter Finish Carpenter Jack of All Trades If you are looking for a change, or a new start, The Home Renovation Centre is looking to add some new, permanent staff to our team. Transportation is required. Call David 250-3425682.

Please recycle this newspaper

SERVICES

B.B.’s Home & Lawn Care Services Renovations/Plumbing/House Repairs, Moving, Dump runs.

House Checks/Cleaning, Spring/ Yard Clean-up, Eavestroughs.

Tree removal. 250-688-2897.

Pike Contracting Excavating and Skid Steer services.

Call Jason 250-342-5277.

PROFESSIONAL STUMP GRINDING Free quotes Reasonable rates 1-403-703-4492.

Come see Krysta Larsen R.TCM.P to help treat your pain, anxiety, menstrual irregularities, sports injuries and much more. The clinic offers direct billing to a variety of insurance companies, as well motor vehicle claims through ICBC.

Located at #304 - 1313 7th Ave. Book online at www.silverfernacupuncture.ca

NOW OPEN!

HELP WANTED

Local Journalism Incentive Multi Cultural Affairs Reporter The Columbia Valley Pioneer is looking for a full- • Well organized with good attention to detail. time Multi Cultural Affairs Reporter for our news • An open mind, a positive attitude, and a desire to both learn about and serve the larger comoperation based in Invermere. We operate a daily news site, columbiavalleypioneer.com, and a weekly munity. print publication.

The position is a one-year contract and is available The successful candidate must work well in a team set- immediately, although the date can be flexible for ting, but is self-motivated. You will be responsible to the right candidate. If necessary the company can write multiple news stories every week for print and assist with relocation costs. on-line publication, take photographs to accompany stories, attend community events and layout pagInterested candidates should forward their resume to es (all while respecting Social Distancing requireAmanda Nason, Associate Publisher/Sales Manager: ments).

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

• Valid driver’s license and reliable vehicle.

• Experience in InDesign, Photoshop, and posting to social media.

advertising@columbiavalleypioneer.com

N E W S PA P E R

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

18 • The Columbia Valley Pioneer

HELP WANTED

HELP WANTED

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.

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.

Crossroads Market Now Hiring!

Opportunities for all positions Night-time Supervisors, Deli Clerks and Cashiers. Above average wage packages offered.

Both full and part-time positions available. High season bonus packages from May through September for all staff. Pleasant and customer service-oriented individuals please. Call 778526-5085 or email resume to KGTLTD2020@gmail.com.

Everett Frater Enterprises now hiring Lawn maintenance employees for Mon-Fri, weekends off. Call 250-3425645.

Rigid Plumbing is looking for both an Experienced Journeyman Plumber and Labourer. Call 250-341-5179

Geoff Hill PREC* REALTOR® Fair Realty

250-341-7600

www.geoffhill.ca

The Heartfelt Companion is hiring an associate to provide non-medical services to seniors.

If you have a big, kind heart and truly appreciate the company of seniors please call 250341-5683 for more info. Only those available on short notice from Monday - Friday will be considered. This is a permanent casual or part time position.

Approximately 4 - 12 to 8 - 20 hours/week.

WANTED!

Licensed Automotive Mechanic or Third or Fourth Year Apprentice Full-time, year-round. Experienced in all aspects of automotive repair, possess a full set of tools, a valid drivers license and must be reliable. We offer competitive wages, clean comfortable surroundings, hoists with all specialty tools, uniforms (and laundered) included as well as a benefit package.

Email your resume to k5mech@shaw.ca or stop in to see Richard or Fred 3 - 140 Industrial Rd #2, Invermere, B.C.

May 13, 2021

COVID-19 Community Liaison Secwepemc Health Caucus Reporting directly to the Shuswap Indian Band Health Director and supporting five Health Directors virtually in the Lakes Areas, the Community Liaison provides support to communities to enhance culturally safe COVID-19 mitigation measures, community preparedness, and response capacity. The Community Liaison role assists leadership, of the Sub-Region, Family, Nation, Community, or Health Service Organization to which they are assigned, through effective engagement with community members, and health partners including the First Nations Health Authority (FNHA) and Regional Health Authority (Interior Health). In addition, they use their local knowledge and context about the community, family units, structures and processes in the region to ensure that needs arising from the COVID-19 pandemic are being addressed in a manner that is relevant to the community context.

• • • • • • • • •

Demonstrated ability to maintain the confidentiality of sensitive information Ability to organize and plan own work Ability to be flexible and meet changing priorities Good verbal and written skills including the ability to keep clean notes and action items Ability to take initiative, problem-solve and make decisions within the job scope.

Ability to efficiently and effectively utilize Microsoft Office Suite including Word, Outlook, PowerPoint, and Excel.

Strong ability to collaborate with others and work well in a team.

Valid BC Driver’s license and access to a reliable vehicle.

Must be able to work flexible hours and travel as required.

SKILLS & ABILITIES: • Familiar with Secwepemc culture and traditions.

• In-depth knowledge of First Nations health and wellness systems.

• In-depth knowledge of FNHA and IHA, the BC health care system, and the current landscape of First Nations health in BC, preferably with a focus on the current pandemic.

RESPONSIBILITIES INCLUDE: • Experience in promoting and educating basic infection prevention and control practices related to • Distributing community-relevant COVID-19 education to ensure individuals and families understand pandemics COVID-19 precautions.

• Experience in inventory, ordering, and distribution of community Personal Protective Equipment • Promoting basic infection prevention and control practices to prevent COVID-19 transmission.

• The ability to work collaboratively with the community’s health officials and Interior Health • Acting as a direct resource to the community – answering or responding to questions from members.

COVID-19 Contact Tracers to support culturally safe contact tracing services.

• Assisting in identifying accommodations in and around the community for potential self-isolation, and/or surge capacity.

TERMS AND CONDITIONS • Assisting in developing and supporting food security supports.

• Full-time position (32.5 hours per week) Monday to Friday.

• Facilitating access to community resources and providing information on community services such as • 1-Year contract harm reduction and mental health and wellness programs.

• Must adhere to the Shuswap Indian Band Human Resources Policy and Procedure Manual • Assisting in ordering, receiving, and distributing personal protective equipment.

(Approved April 4, 2018).

• Developing and maintaining strong working partnerships with communities, health care providers, • Must adhere to the Shuswap Indian Band Financial policies and procedures (October 24, 2017). health system partners and relevant organizations to support coordinated care.

• Require three (3) recent work references.

• Engaging with the communities’ away-from-home population/families.

• Salary to be based on experience.

• Working collaboratively with communities and RHA COVID-19 contact tracers to support culturally safe contact tracing services as per the process between the RHA and community.

Only those selected for an interview will be contacted. Preference will be given to persons of • Assisting primary health providers in monitoring designated community members via phone daily Aboriginal ancestry as per Section 16 (1) of the Canadian Human Rights Act. Appointment to this to ensure that holistic needs are being met and isolation plans are being maintained. position will require a formal criminal record check, the details of which may preclude an offer of • Providing regular reporting on services provided. employment being finalized.

• Performing other related duties as assigned.

QUALIFICATIONS • Grade 12 or equivalent • Recent and relevant experience (2-4 years or more) working in a health services environment or an appropriate combination of education and experience.

• Ability to work overtime as needed (preferred)

To apply, please submit your resume, cover letter, and references to the Shuswap Indian Band, #3, 492 Arrow Road, Invermere BC, V0A 1K2 C/O Angela Sarsons, Director of Operations Email: dops@shuswapband.ca • Fax: 250-341-3683 Deadline for applications: Monday, May 17th, 2021.

Mental Health Outreach Worker

• Ability to work evenings as needed • Demonstrated ability to maintain the confidentiality of sensitive information • Ability to organize and plan own work • Ability to be flexible and meet changing priorities • Good verbal and written skills including the ability to keep clean notes and action items • Ability to take initiative, problem-solve and make decisions within the job scope Outreach or support workers in integrated community services teams specialize in supporting people • Valid BC Driver’s license and access to a reliable vehicle. with long-term mental health problems. They help them adapt to ordinary life within the community by SKILLS & ABILITIES: developing coping skills rather than being institutionalized in a hospital or hostel, within a framework of • Familiar with Secwepemc culture and traditions. positive consultation and joint planning.

• In-depth knowledge of First Nations health and wellness systems.

• An understanding of mental health issues • Good interpersonal skills • Effective written and verbal communication • Capable of maintaining appropriate written records • Awareness of confidentiality and adhering to confidentiality policies • Able to work on your own initiative as well as part of a team • Awareness of health and safety issues for others and self • A caring nature RESPONSIBILITIES INCLUDE: • Ability to follow instructions as part of a planned program of care • Attending the homes of identified individuals/families to carry out duties and tasks as specified in • Awareness of equalities legislation the care plan designed to enable a good degree of independent living. For example: going with the client to collect welfare benefits or a pension.

TERMS AND CONDITIONS • Listening to and considering what both the client and caregiver would like to do and helping them as • Part-time position - 19.5 hours per week best they can.

• May require evening shifts to support with groups and community events • Identifying deterioration in clients, enabling action to be taken to help them. For example: assisting • Will be required to work alongside our clinical counsellor and follow case management plans as with physical care such as activities of daily living, cooking, etc. outlined.

• Monitoring and overseeing any medication prescribed by qualified medical practitioners and check- • Must adhere to the Shuswap Indian Band Human Resources Policy and Procedure Manual ing for any changes that have been made in dosage.

(Approved April 4, 2018).

• Providing a safe environment for those who need long-term supervision and support.

• Must adhere to the Shuswap Indian Band Financial policies and procedures (October 24, 2017).

• Helping the client with the preparation of meals, shopping, cleaning, and laundry.

• Require three (3) recent work references.

• Noting any significant changes in the client’s health, outlook, and behaviour; referring upwards for • Salary to be based on experience. advice about what action to take.

Only those selected for an interview will be contacted. Preference will be given to persons of • Assisting in any assessment procedures.

• Providing regular verbal and written reports to the clinical counsellor and community nurse; raising Aboriginal ancestry as per Section 16 (1) of the Canadian Human Rights Act. Appointment to this position will require a formal criminal record check, the details of which may preclude an offer of any issues about any alteration in the client’s family circumstances.

• Facilitating and supporting community meetings and activities to enhance community employment being finalized. engagement.

The Mental Health Outreach Worker will provide help and relieve stress for persons with enduring mental health problems and are responsible to the Health Director. They will also provide the same sort of support to the caregiver. This will involve the provision of personal, social and domestic care, training and opportunities to engage in meaningful activities and experiences at home and within the local community. They will work closely with all members of the community team to enable their clients to continue living in the community with comfort and dignity. The overall aim is to improve the quality of life of people who have mental health difficulties and prevent inappropriate admissions to the hospital.

QUALIFICATIONS • Grade 12 or equivalent • At least 1 year of recent and relevant experience working and caring for people with mental health problems • Willingness to undertake further training

To apply, please submit your resume, cover letter, and references to the Shuswap Indian Band, #3, 492 Arrow Road, Invermere BC, V0A 1K2 C/O Angela Sarsons, Director of Operations Email: dops@shuswapband.ca Fax: 250-341-3683 Deadline for applications: Monday, May 17th, 2021

LET US HAMMER OUT THE DETAILS FOR ALL YOUR ADVERTISING NEEDS, CALL 250-341-6299

N E W S PA P E R

May 13, 2021

The Columbia Valley Pioneer • 19

Fairmont Vacation Villas Mountainside

EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY Mining Apprenticeship Program (MAP)

(855) 345-6341or mountainsidevillas.com

- Industrial Electrician Apprentice

GROUNDS HELP

Start Date: TBD Please quote competition number: 21-MAP-01-EL Closing date: May 19, 2021

Terravista in Windermere is looking for some help to maintain its grounds.

April 1st to September 15th.

Competitive wages. Students welcome!

Mining Apprenticeship Program (MAP) - Heavy Duty Equipment Technician Apprentice Start Date: TBD Please quote competition number: 21-MAP-02-HD Closing date: May 19, 2021

Please send your resume to terravistagm@gmail.com with “grounds help” listed as the subject.

For a full description of this job posting and instructions on how to apply visit: cotr.ca/HRD

cotr.ca

IT SYSTEMS SUPPORT SPECIALIST

• •

Develop a technology user guide with simple instruction to help students and families log on to computers, use software, manage files, share documents, and troubleshoot connectivity issues.

Work with the School District to gather best practices and learning materials to help develop a technology user guide.

QUALIFICATIONS

• • MISSION • To ensure technological support and connectivity is provided to K-12 Shuswap students and provide • individual coaching to support families and students with learning new technology.

•

WHO ARE YOU?

Demonstrated excellence in customer relations and building trusting relationships with clientele.

A certificate or diploma in computer and networking support from an accredited institution.

2-3 years experience in delivering IT support.

Experience troubleshooting TCP/IT network and routing.

Demonstrated success in developing instruction and delivering simple tips and tricks to coach new users.

Experience working with educational programs and software.

You have a passion for connecting learners to new technology and have expansive knowledge of IT • systems and setup. You’re patient and love to share your knowledge with new learners. A master trouble PERSONAL ATTRIBUTES: shooter, you have the gift of teaching others the tips and tricks to keep connected and engaged.

• Exceptional at building trusting relationships.

• A collaborative partner with a desire to work closely with Shuswap community members and WHAT WILL YOU DO? educational partners.

Reporting to the Education Coordinator, you will work closely with the Shuswap Indian Band Education • Impeccable attention to detail and high standards for quality. team and the School District to understand IT needs and build the roadmap to deliver IT systems set • Outstanding verbal, written, and presentation skills. You are a clear, concise communicator. up and connectivity.

• Highly organized. Solid time management and project management skills.

• Proficient in current and emerging software and hardware applications and always eager to learn RESPONSIBILITIES INCLUDE: more.

• Collaborate with the Shuswsap Indian Band Education team and School District 6 to review • An understanding of the history of First Nations in British Columbia, and an interest to learn technological needs and requirements for on and off-reserve students. more about the history, culture, practices, socioeconomic conditions, rights, and future vision of • Understand connectivity limitations and challenges and provide solutions that will ensure Indigenous peoples. ongoing, sustainable connection.

• Connect one on one with Shuswap students and families to install computers, test software and SCHEDULE AND COMPENSATION test connectivity.

This is a contract opportunity starting as soon as possible ending June 30, 2021, working 10-15 hours • Implement and set up parental restrictions on each computer to prevent the installation of per week at an hourly rate of $38.50. Ideally, the successful candidate would be available to provide harmful programs. ongoing, technological support on an as-needed, contract basis.

• Ensure safe internet practices are set up and shown to parents and students with the intent to eliminate distractions and help maintain focus when learning online.

If interested, please submit an application to evolve.shift@gmail.com by end of day • Set up devices and systems to connect to remote IT support.

Tuesday, May 18, 2021. Only qualified candidates will be contacted.

EDUCATION SPECIALIST MISSION

• •

• WHO ARE YOU? You have played a key role in assessing the learning needs of K-12 students and can develop learning programs that are aligned with educational standards and curriculum. You know how to weave in • creative and cultural programming that sparks engagement and excitement for learning in a safe and • caring environment.

A graduate or undergraduate degree in Education, Indigenous Studies, or related studies.

Experience in the development of educational materials or an equivalent combination of education and experience.

Experience in conducting needs assessments, interpreting findings, and recommending measurable program deliverables and outcomes.

Experience working and collaborating with Indigenous community members and education partners.

Demonstrated success in developing and implementing programs with measurable success and outcomes.

Proficient in all Microsoft Office applications.

WHAT WILL YOU DO? • Reporting to the Education Coordinator, you will work closely with the Shuswap Indian band education team, Aboriginal Education Workers, and the Rocky Mountain School District to understand essential PERSONAL ATTRIBUTES: learning needs and establish the framework for program delivery. You will partner with Shuswap • Exceptional at building trusting relationships. community members and mentors to embed culture and life skills into everyday learning and identify • Highly collaborative and intentional when building partnerships.

• Impeccable attention to detail and high standards for quality. what resources are needed to create a space for ongoing Indigenous learning.

• Outstanding verbal, written, and presentation skills. You are a clear, concise communicator.

• Highly organized. Solid time management and project management skills.

RESPONSIBILITIES INCLUDE: • Liaise with the Shuswap Indian Band education team and school district to understand current • The ability to understand education and ministry standards while developing creative and innovative programming that meets individual student needs. learning needs and establish a framework to conduct an overall needs assessment.

• Identify the learning needs for each student and coordinate with the school district and aboriginal • An understanding of the history of First Nations in British Columbia, and an interest to learn more about the history, culture, practices, socioeconomic conditions, rights, and future vision of workers in developing an innovative learning program.

Indigenous peoples.

• Connect with literacy and numeracy school district specialists to understand learning essentials, • •

address learning gaps, and identify opportunities that ensure literacy and numeracy fundamentals are woven through all learning programs.

Connect with Shuswap Indian Band community members who share a passion for education and cultural learning to gather insights and suggestions to ensure culture and learning fundamentals are captured throughout all programming.

Identify learning gaps and align with opportunities that will drive attendance, engagement and inspire continual learning.

Housekeepers for their busy Summer and Fall season.

We offer year-round employment, with a wage of $18-$19 per hour depending on experience, and a generous benefits package after 3 months.

We are also accepting part-time and student applications.

All positions involve working weekends. Must be reliable, Have own transportation, 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

Akiskinook Resort STRATA RESORT GARDENER POSITION SUMMARY – Akiskinook Resort is looking to fill a flower bed and garden tender position. This is a full time seasonal position with some flexibility required during busier and slower periods. It is a hands-on role involving planting and maintaining the pristine flower gardens as well as assisting with general groundskeeping as needed.

RESPONSIBILITIES – You will be accountable for the overall maintenance of the flower beds and gardens throughout the resort at a level consistent with the high standards expected of Akiskinook.

QUALIFICATIONS – The successful candidate must possess the following competencies and experience: • High attention to detail • Team player • A love of the outdoors and a great work ethic Wage will be determined based on experience and qualifications. Resumes may be submitted to akisk01@telus.net or faxed to 250-342-0122.

Work with the Shuswap Indian Band to align with the overall education strategy and assign indicators to help gauge and measure the success of programs and identify future opportunities that will enhance and expand all learning programs.

Work closely with the Project Manager for Innovation in Education to connect students to tutors.

Help manage and maintain tutoring schedules and budgets.

QUALIFICATIONS

• To ensure continued support and identification of future learning opportunities that will enhance K-12 • Shuswap student engagement and inspire continuous learning.

Fairmont Villa Management is now hiring

SCHEDULE AND COMPENSATION

This is a contract opportunity starting as soon as possible ending June 30, 2021, working 15-20 hours per week at an hourly rate of $50.00. Ideally, the successful candidate would be available to support future educational programs on an as-needed, contract basis.

If interested, please submit an application to evolve.shift@gmail.com by end of day Tuesday, May 18, 2021. Only qualified candidates will be contacted.

Brainard Custom Contracting is growing again!

Now is your chance to join an amazing locally born and raised company, right here in the Columbia Valley!

We are hiring for Skilled Labourers to join our team.

Wages will be negotiated between $25-$40/hour, depending on experience.

What we have to Offer YOU: • Top wages in the valley • Optional personal/family benefit plan • Fun, no-stress workdays • Monday to Friday, no weekends • Flexible schedule to assist with personal and family needs • An employer that respects and values you!

What you need to Offer US: • Must be reliable and respect hard work • Must want to be part of a team and have a great attitude • Must have own vehicle for work within the Columbia Valley Please email list of qualifications to BrainardCustom@gmail.com We look forward to working with you!

Just a reminder… The deadline for display advertising is 12 noon Monday.

20 • The Columbia Valley Pioneer

May 13, 2021

International Day Against Homophobia, Transphobia, and Biphobia

are, just like being gay, pansexual, queer, asexual, etc. No one is trying to take that away. The problem with ‘SuMonday, May 17 is the International Day Against per Straight’ is that folks, especially teens, are using it Homophobia, Transphobia, and Biphobia. as a sexual orientation and a movement that promotes This day of action was started in 2004 “to draw at- discrimination against the LGBTQ2IA+ community. It’s tention to the violence and discrimination experienced the same mindset that is behind “Straight Pride”, where by lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, intersex people, folks who feel that their heterosexuality is being discrimand all other people with diverse sexual orientations, gen- inated against. der identities or expressions, and sex It’s ok to celebrate characteristics.” (may17.org) your own sexuality and Photo by Elyssa Fahndrich on Unsplash The date of May 17 was chosen gender, including if you’re as this was the day in 1990 when straight or cisgender. The the World Health Organization fireason LGBTQ2IA+ nally declassified homosexuality as Pride exists is because a mental health disorder. This was we’ve been discriminata game changer for LGBTQ2IA+ ed against, outlawed, asrights across the world. This day of saulted and killed since action is now celebrated across 130 colonization in this councountries. try. Being heterosexual or While Canada has made leaps cisgender has never been and bounds in the fight for equalillegal, never used against ity, many people still face discrimisomeone to take away nation and violence in our country, their job, home, chilespecially our Transgender, Non-Bidren, or as a reason to be nary, Two-Spirit, and Intersex comthrown into jail or a psymunity members. Only in 2017 chiatric institution. Peowas an offence based on gender exple aren’t being thrown pression, Bill C-16, passed as a hate in jail, beat up, and killed crime in the Federal Court of Law (Government of Can- by their families, neighbours, and governments across the ada). It is still, however, not recorded by Stats Canada, world because they are straight or cisgender. No heterowhich means the stats of violence against Trans, Non-Bi- sexual person or cisgender person has had to leave their nary, Two-Spirit, and Intersex community members are country and seek refuge elsewhere because of their gender not available to us yet. We do know that trans women, or sexuality. That is the reason that LGBTQ2IA+ Pride especially trans women of colour, face a much higher rate exists. We constantly have to fight for our lives and our of violence and death than other folks. human rights.

An alarming trend that we have witnessed in our Parents and caregivers, the best thing you can do is local schools recently is the ‘Super Straight’ trend that help your children learn about the importance of accepstarted on Tik Tok. According to Urban Dictionary, tance, kindness and social justice. Home is where chilthe term “Super Straight” means, based on the idea of a dren learn first about who they love and who they hate. gender binary, that a person is attracted only to the op- Every message of hate makes for a harder, more frightenposite gender, and excludes anyone who is transgender. ing world for another child, while every message of love Trolls on 4chan deliberately started this definition to makes our entire world a better place. promote further discrimination and violence towards the For more information, please visit the following reLGBTQ2IA+ community. Some people who claim that sources: Egale Canada - www.egale.ca; May 17 - www. they are lesbian, gay, or bi, are also supporting this trend may17.org; Trans Connect - www.kootenaytransgender. as they are transphobic. Lateral violence and transphobia com; Columbia Valley Pride - www.columbiavalleypride. are alive and well within the LGBTQ2IA+ community as org; Christian Conversation Guide - https://www.hrc. well, and the trolls who started the ‘Super Straight’ term org/resources/a-christian-conversation-guide; Pflag - a on 4chan are using it to their advantage. support for parents and family of LGBTQIA+ family Being straight/heterosexual is just part of who you members - www.pflagcanada.ca.

Submitted by Columbia Valley Pride

LAKE WINDERMERE ALLIANCE CHURCH Online Sundays at 10:30 a.m.

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

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

your message is resonating with residents and visitors alike.

!

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

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

www.columbiavalleypioneer.com

Artym Gallery thanks healthcare providers Submitted by Artym Gallery Maya Eventov, with the Artym Gallery, has gifted an original floral painting to an East Kootenay healthcare worker. Both Maya and Artym Gallery would like to highlight the amazing efforts of the dedicated caregivers, nurses, doctors, EMT’s, first responders, and all health care providers in care homes. We are proud to be one of the select galleries across North America for this project.

To enter to win this beautiful 16” x 16” floral painting (valued at $1355 framed), you just need to stop by the Artym Gallery to enter, with your name, phone number and what healthcare work you do. The draw will take place Monday, May 31.

Thank you and stay safe.