Columbia Valley Pioneer - May 2, 2024

Plumbing Service

COMING EVENTS

Red Dress Day to honour missing, murdered women

Columbia Valley Pioneer staff

May 5 marks an important day in Canada to honour and remember missing and murdered Indigenous women, girls and two-spirit people.

Red Dress Day is a “National Day of Awareness” of the violence perpetrated against these beloved individuals and the grief left behind.

girls. In many cases, they died at the hands of someone they knew.”

Paddon commends those who hold a red dress as a symbol of sorrow, outrage and action against this social atrocity.

“Ending this violence means confronting biases and stereotypes. It means speaking up when someone is being treated badly. It means offering help and support when someone is unsafe or is at risk.”

Paddon said the red dress also means taking leadership on solutions, including transition houses, safe homes for women and children facing violence, and funding for culturally responsive sexual assault services.

Shuswap Band is hosting a special event this Friday, May 3 starting at 2 p.m. at Invermere Public Library. Members of the public are asked to wear anything red (ribbon skirt or shirt) in honour of these missing and murdered women. The event will include an honour song, drumming, and a memorial walk. A barbecue is planned at the Shuswap Band Health Centre (in the basement).

Kelli Paddon, BC Parliamentary Secretary for Gender Equity, noted that Red Dress Day was inspired by Métis artist Jaime Black’s REDress Project; which symbolizes loss, grief and injustice over the murder and ongoing violence against Indigenous women, girls, two-spirit and gender-diverse people in Canada.

“It serves as a steadfast reminder and a rallying point in communities across the country to end violence against Indigenous and gender-diverse people,” she pointed out.

Paddon said the Canadian Femicide Observatory for Justice and Accountability recently released data on women killed in the country.

“Last year, we lost 184 women and girls to femicide. At least one in five were Indigenous women or

In response to the National Inquiry on Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls’ Calls to Justice, the government implemented the “Path Forward” Community Fund to sponsor Indigenous-led, anti-violence projects that expand safety-planning capacity for communities.

“We have lost far too many women, girls, two-spirit and gender-diverse people to gender-based violence,” Paddon said.

If you are in immediate danger, or think someone else is, there are resources that can help. You can call 911. You can also call, email or text VictimLink BC through its toll-free 24/7 confidential, multilingual telephone service at 1-800-563-0808 or VictimLinkBC@bc211.ca.

VictimLink’s staff are there to provide immediate crisis support and information and referral services.

Shuswap Band is honouring missing and murdered Indigenous women, girls and two-spirit people as part of Red Dress Day on May 5. The band is hosting a special ceremony in Invermere this Friday, May 3. PHOTO AKINTEVS/GETTY IMAGES

VALLEY NEWS Alterations sought for CVMA project

By Steve Hubrecht  steve@columbiavalleypioneer.com

There was neither a ‘yes’ nor a ‘no’ from Invermere council on the controversial affordable housing-Columbia Valley Métis Association (CVMA) culture centre proposal. Instead, it was an equivocated sort of ‘maybe’ that Invermere councillors meet development proponents — the CVMA and Métis Nation British Columbia (MNBC) — at a future committee of the whole meeting to see if design alterations are possible.

The proposal has become one of the hottest municipal issues in Invermere this spring, with strong opinions on both sides. Those in favour of the project point to the district’s dire need for affordable housing and long-term rentals. Many of those opposed say that they like the idea of affordable housing, but they don’t like the development’s proposed height (four storeys) or its proposed location, on a block of 13th Street with many single family residential properties and single-storey townhomes.

During their Tuesday, April 23 council meeting, Invermere councillors voiced a desire to talk with the proponents about one of the key points of contention — the height — as well as the CVMA office and cultural centre and whether a reconfiguration of those aspects is possible.

“I certainly don’t want to squash it entirely,” said councillor Kayja Becker. “We need to have further discussion.”

“The biggest question comes down to the height,” added councillor Gerry Taft. “If this was a private development, I wouldn’t have supported it even going to public hearing. But do have some

support for it, given who the applicants are, and given that it will include public affordable housing.”

Taft continued that he’s fine with the proposed number of housing units (36), “but there needs to be a way to achieve that without four storeys . . . what was consistent in the public hearing (held on April 4) was that neighbours felt they would be impacted by a four-storey building and that it is not consistent with the character of the surrounding neighbourhood.”

“It’s all about change,” opined Invermere Mayor Al Miller. He recalled when the Parkside Place development (a multi-storey mixed residential-commercial development on the east side of main street, opposite the south end of Pothole Park) was first proposed. “It was challenging . . . there were people who were definitely against the height then. But I don’t hear any controversy about the height (of Parkside Place) today . . . I’m guessing that, with this development, people might get used to it in time too. But clearly not right now.”

Miller added that he also wants to talk with the project proponents about the possibilities of doing the development on another chunk of land, perhaps closer to downtown.

After the meeting, CVMA president Topher Burke told the Pioneer that he’s not surprised at council’s desire to talk more, given the feedback from the public hearing and other forms of public consultation.

“We’re grateful to still be in a position to move forward, and potentially make some modifications that will benefit everyone in the community,” said Burke. “We’re amenable to making something that works.”

RCMP REPORT

Alarm sounds for vehicle fires

Columbia Valley Pioneer staff

On April 23 Invermere Fire Rescue responded to reports of several vehicles on fire in the area of Industrial Road 2.

Upon arrival it was discovered that seven stored vehicles including a cube van containing housewares were smouldering. The fire had also moved into the surrounding trees.

Crews were able to quickly contain and extinguish the blaze. No injuries were reported, and the cause is still under investigation.

Last week firefighters responded to a serious motor vehicle incident approximately eight kilometres south of Windermere.

Fire officials reported that two people sustained injuries. STARS air ambulance landed at the Fairmont airport to transport the victims for medical care. The highway was closed as a result of the incident, the cause of which is still undetermined.

There were nine members of the Windermere Fire Department with three pieces of apparatus, and seven Invermere firefighters with two pieces of apparatus at the scene to support BC Ambulance Service personnel and those involved.

PHOTO SARAH RAE

Core area plan envisions denser downtown

By Steve Hubrecht  steve@columbiavalleypioneer.com

The District of Invermere’s core area servicing plan was recently completed, providing a glimpse not only of what the district thinks its water and sewer system may look like a few decades hence, but also of what kind of population that system will serve and what Invermere’s downtown may become.

So, what does the future downtown look like? A lot more densely developed that it is currently. Projections in the plan show large swaths of the downtown transformed into four-storey commercial-residential mixed-used buildings, R-3 ‘cluster development’ residential blocks (which involves several detached or multiple-unit dwellings on one property), and R-2 two-family residential properties (i.e. medium density duplexes).

The vision is vastly different than the current reality of downtown Invermere, which has a mixture of commercial buildings (very few of which combine residential and commercial aspects, and fewer still that exceed two storeys), single family residential homes, some two-family residential properties (though nowhere near what is envisioned in the future), some cluster developments (very little compared with future scenarios), a few mid-sized properties zoned ‘public institutional’, one large property zoned ‘resort and tourist recreation’, and a hodgepodge of other zonings.

The projection and maps are conceptual — each image in the plan is carefully labelled a “potential future scenario,” making clear that this is very much in the realm of hypothetical, rather than any sort of formal objective. Still, it offers fascinating insight into where councillors, district staff and their planning consultants believe Invermere may be heading in the next few decades.

Invermere Mayor Al Miller put a timeline to the maps, telling the Pioneer these potential scenarios show what the downtown could become two decades from now in 2045.

The scenarios include a projected downtown population of more than 9,000 people: 5,600 in C-1 residential buildings (ie. multi-storey, commercial-residential mixed-use buildings); another 1,000 living in C-1 commercial zoned buildings; 1,400 in R-3 cluster developments; more than 400 living in properties with institutional zoning; and nearly 500 on R-2 two-family resi-

dential properties.

How might this transformation come about?

The plan suggests different zoning for most of the downtown – taking current C-1 downtown zoning, three of the current P-1 public institutional zoned properties, as well as a few select R-2 zone two-family residential properties and changing them all to zoning that allows for four-storey commercial-residential mixed-use buildings. Next, change the remaining R-2 zone two-family residential properties to R-3 cluster development zoning. Then finally, change R-1 single family zoning to R-2 two-family zoning.

“We are planning for the future. We know we have a desperate need to densify the downtown area,” Miller told the Pioneer. “It’s a way to hopefully make some new housing that is more affordable, as well as to add some vibrancy downtown. It will be better for residents, better for businesses, better for Invermere.”

Miller agreed that the population estimate may look large (the district currently has slightly fewer than 4,000 residents), and conceded it may not in fact grow that much, but said the 9,000 figure was calculated using recent growth percentage rates (Invermere’s population leapt 15.5 per cent between the 2016 and 2021 censuses).

“There are a lot of people who have moved here recently, and a lot more who want to move here. The only thing getting in the way is the housing situation. If we can figure that out, it (Invermere’s population) will grow,” said Miller.

Council received the plan from consultants earlier this spring —  coincidentally just as discussion swirled in Invermere about a proposed four-storey affordable housing development on 13th Street. The proposal stirred strong opinions both in favour and against, with most of those opposed saying they don’t want a four-storey building in a neighbourhood with many single family residential homes. Obviously the core area services plan has no bearing on the proposed affordable housing development, but interestingly, the affordable housing plan’s four-storey height is exactly what the plan foresees a lot more of in Invermere — albeit in the downtown, rather than on 11th Street, partway between the downtown and J.A. Laird Elementary School.

Continued on page 7

Time to start thinking about Mom

We’ve

Screenshot of Invermere’s Core Area Services plan shows a projected future scenario (top) for downtown with more dense development compared with the current scenario (bottom).

Unfathomable

Three billion years. Unfathomable, isn’t it?

Gord Crawford from Spur Valley raised an interesting question in his recent letter to the editor on how humankind is destroying the earth, leaving our grandchildren to inherit a dying paradise. Why did you do that, grandpa? Gulp!

The Pioneer edited a small piece of Crawford’s letter at the point where he asked what our great-grandchildren will be up to in three billion years. The question seemed odd since we and the earth may be long gone by that time or merely a wisp of floating gas particles.

Who knows . . . in three billion years Earth could be a dead planet inhabited only by mounds of old machinery and garbage, a derelict rock that our new civilization utilizes as a landfill station. Meanwhile, humans (or semi-humans) are living light years away on a planet in another galaxy continuing to experiment with time travel and teleportation theories. By then, we could be reliving past lives or moments in childhood in suspended time chambers or pods with the explicit warning: users run the risk of altering your future altogether. Change too much and you may face a world you no longer recognize.

By three billion years we could be an alien race according to a new form of primitive beings living on the fringes of the solar system. Our ships will be in a ‘Star Wars’ of their own with rival civilizations wanting to control the galaxy, not with weapons of mass destruction, but with humanity obliterators. Humanity could be all we have left to defend.

In three billion years, life may not be of a physical existence but more of an ethereal plane . . . or holograms of our former selves. We won’t feel physical pain, but a smidgen of our hearts could still harbor sadness from archived memories stored in solar data banks.

In three billion years, massive organisms (like the dinosaurs) could be roaming a steaming wasteland created by an explosion one million times more powerful than the Soviet’s ‘Tsar Bomba.’ Although officially off limits, the planet would be under review as a pseudo tourism destination for the mega-elite, with the caveat: your hologram may not survive.

In three billion years, all of humankind’s misdeeds and mistakes would be forgotten; their failure to save the world from climate change and destruction would be moot — a long lost history drowned in tears wept by countless grandchildren whose warnings went unheeded courtesy of progress and greed. By then, nothing will matter; new civilizations will be born while others will perish. Einstein’s theories will finally be put into practice, with new ones tested and exploited.

And what of love, the conqueror of all? Will it stand the test of three billion years? Will it even be an emotion? We can only hope.

Lyonel Doherty, editor

Moving towards bioplastic

We can certainly feel helpless when it comes to reducing our environmental footprint and fighting against climate change. Therefore, it is imperative to specifically target and tackle some of their causes.

The plastics we commonly use are produced from petroleum and go into the manufacturing of a large quantity of goods. They are a main source of pollution, for they are toxic, non-biodegradable and harmful to both human health and wildlife. We now find them everywhere on land, in the oceans and even in our bodies. Their production is also a major cause of greenhouse gases.

Despite our determination, the recycling of these petroplastics, which are often loaded with toxic additives, does not work. About 9 per cent are recycled, yet

only a small part goes into the manufacturing of new plastics. These, in fact, are largely made from new petroplastics . . . we can’t see the end of it!

Bioplastic, on the other hand, exists in various forms and is easily biodegradable. It is produced from organic sources like algae, agricultural residues, fish waste, etc. Using bioplastic instead of petroplastic would greatly impact environmental cleanup and facilitate recycling of paper, glass, iron, and aluminum. Italy, for example, now only uses bioplastic bags. It also wants to broaden this transition to other plastic products. What an inspiration for us towards a necessary move to bioplastic.

This urgent environmental issue needs to be resolved now. Bruno Marquis, Gatineau QC

LETTERS

CAP questions sentencing of Rainbow Eyes

The Congress of Aboriginal Peoples (CAP) expresses profound disappointment in the recent sentencing of Green Party Deputy Leader and Guardian for the Da'naxda'xw/Awaetlala First Nation, Angela Davidson, also known as "Rainbow Eyes." The decision, handed down on Wednesday, April 24 in Nanaimo has stirred a wave of concern within Indigenous communities and their allies across Canada.

Davidson has been sentenced to 60 days of incarceration and 75 hours of community service for seven counts of criminal contempt related to her involvement in the Fairy Creek logging blockades on Vancouver Island, a movement she has passionately supported for the past three years.

Despite being credited for 12 days of time served during pretrial proceedings, this sentence surpasses even the prosecution's recommendation, casting a shadow of injustice over the proceedings.

National Chief Elmer St. Pierre of CAP voices the collective dismay, stating, “This is not the outcome we have hoped for. The Canadian justice system needs to stop contributing to the over-incarceration of our people. This is unjust and ultimately an infringement upon her fundamental human rights.”

The incarceration of Rainbow Eyes, for her activism in safeguarding Indigenous lands and customs, directly goes against governmental pledges to honour Indigenous rights, as stated in UNDRIP and provincial laws.

“The incarceration of Angela Davidson serves as a reminder of the bigger problem within the justice system that often fails to adequately recognize and respect Indigenous sovereignty and the rights inherent to Indigenous Peoples,” says CAP National Vice-Chief Kim Beaudin.

CAP calls upon authorities to re-evaluate their approach to cases involving Indigenous activists and to ensure that justice is served equitably and in alignment with the principles of reconciliation and respect for Indigenous rights.

Congress of Aboriginal Peoples

Conflict of interest outlook in Invermere

This is part two of a series on conflict of interest by David

Goldsmith

The District of Invermere (DOI) has in place a council Code of Conduct, dated March 2018. Section 6 deals with conflict of interest.

• Council officials are expected to make decisions that benefit the community. They are to be free from undue influence and not act or appear to act to gain financial or other benefits for themselves, family, friends or business interests.

• Council officials must appropriately resolve any conflict or incompatibility between their personal interests and the impartial performance of their duties in accordance with statutory requirements of the Community Charter.

Provincial Community Charter

The Community Charter and the Local Government Act are the two pieces of provincial legislation that govern what and how a municipal government must carry out its functions. Division 6 of the Community Charter deals with conflict of interest. It states that if a council member considers that they have a “direct or indirect pecuniary interest” in a matter, (“pecuniary” is defined as a financial interest), then the council member must not:

• Remain or attend at any part of a meeting during which the matter is under consideration,

• Participate in any discussion of the matter at such a meeting,

• Vote on a question in respect to the matter at such a meeting, or

• Attempt in any way, whether before, during or after such a meeting, to influence the voting on any question in respect of the matter.

The Provincial Charter goes on in Section 108 to state that a person who violates Section 100 may be “disqualified from holding office on a local government until the next general local election.”

What does this mean at the local level?

If an issue came before the District of Invermere which could benefit the mayor or a council member, (or one of their family members such as a spouse, sibling, parent or adult child), that council member should recuse themselves from any discussion and vote on the issue. Examples of this could be a development that might require building materials or trades contracting at the local level. Or a development that might result in potential real estate sales by a council member or the family members of council members. If a council mem-

ber found themselves in a situation like this they should declare the potential conflict of interest and seek a ruling on the issue.

Official Community Plan

The way to avoid an abundance of possible conflict of interest situations in Invermere for the mayor and council, and for the senior officials of the DOI, would be to have an updated and very thorough Official Community Plan in place to guide most future decisions that may come before council. The existing Official Community Plan dates from 2015. In the plan itself, it states, on page 34, the Official Community Plan, “…is a living document that reflects the

current and projected needs of the community, and as such, the OCP should be reviewed and updated every five years.” We are now in year nine of this plan. It needs a full update with appropriate community consultation and input. We could avoid potential continuing conflict of interest by our elected officials if the OCP met the above stipulations.

(David Goldsmith served on the board of the Interior Health Authority for seven years, and on the board of the First Nations Health Authority in BC for four years.)

Plan for Invermere sees higher population

Continued from page 5

The core area services plan outlines that the sewer and water system in the downtown will need considerable improvements to support a population of 9,000. Many pipes will need to be replaced because they are simply too narrow for modern standards (particularly when it comes to water flow rates for fighting fires).

The lift station at Kinsmen Beach will need to be upgraded and, quite possibly, complemented by a

secondary lift station somewhere in the northern half of Invermere.

The lift station at Kinsmen Beach functions like a giant pump. Almost all the sewage generated in the district flows down to the lift station at Kinsmen Beach (aided by gravity) and is then pumped north to the municipal sewage lagoons in Athalmer.

The proposed location for the second lift station is the southwestern corner of Pothole Park. Upgrading the existing Kinsmen Beach lift station will cost Inver-

mere $39 million. Upgrading that lift station and adding a second one at Pothole Park will cost $43 million.   Miller cautioned that council has yet to discuss the matter, but added his own personal feeling is that two lift stations are better. “To have everything going to just one lift station, which is in a vulnerable spot down at the lake isn’t a good idea,” he told the Pioneer. “If we have two lift stations, we have more capacity in the system, and we are reducing the risk, however small it may be, of catastrophe.”

Conflict of interest can be a sticky trail to traverse, which is why the District of Invermere wears hiking boots. PHOTO PIOTREKSWAT/GETTY IMAGES

IBC proposes downtown street closure

By Steve Hubrecht  steve@columbiavalleypioneer.com

A portion of a downtown street could be closed off to traffic this summer, but it won’t be main street.

Invermere Business Committee (IBC) member Sarah Eastick was at last week’s council meeting, making the case for closing a small part of 12th Street. The IBC hopes to create a destination-type feel to the area, beautifying it and bringing in entertainment, activities and other attractants.

“The idea is to create a space that will add vibrancy and will bring people to the downtown. It will enhance the downtown experience for both locals and visitors,” said Eastick.

The area the IBC is looking at is the part of 12th Street west of main street (7th Avenue) and east of the alley between main street and 8th Avenue near the post office. This stretch of street is very short but contains the Invermere cenotaph plaza.

The IBC’s plans for the area include a stage for musicians or performers, space for kids to play, food trucks, picnic tables with umbrellas, a water bottle fill station and a misting tent. Beautifying could be done with some extra flower planters, and ideally there would be a shaded area, explained Eastick.

The proposed closure would last from June 15 to September 8. Eastick –owner of main street business Fire Vixen Tattoos and Emporium — explained that traffic heading east on 12th Street would come to a turnaround point just

past the post office.

“You all live here — you know not much happens after 5 p.m. most evenings. If we can create something that gives people a reason to come downtown, that would be great,” she told council.

Councillors and district staff responded enthusiastically to Eastick’s presentation.  “I think it’s a tremendous idea,” said Invermere Mayor Al Miller. “I think you’ve hit upon something that will really work.”

“This seems like a good idea,” said Invermere chief administrative officer Andrew Young, adding it may be possible for the district to help offset some of the costs entailed in the closure by using COVID-19 re-start funds.

The plan to close part of 12th Street is a much scaled-back alternative to the idea of closing main street to vehicle traffic, turning 7th Avenue into a pedestrian-only thoroughfare. A pedestrian-only main street has been proposed or discussed several times over the past decade. In early 2020 there was considerable backlash from downtown business owners who feared such a closure would negatively impact their business.

The IBC conducted a survey earlier this year on a pedestrian-only main street. The results showed that a majority of residents favoured the idea, but local businesses weren’t so keen; more than half didn’t agree.

Eastick said that a smaller-scale closure off main street offers many of the same benefits as a main street closure but without the risk of hurting local businesses.

MOTHER’S DAY WALK

Fairmont Hot Springs Resort is hosting its 2nd Annual Mother’s Day Walk on Saturday May 11th and we invite YOU to attend!

Ages 6+ are welcome to participate in the walk (and on-leash furry friends too!). Get active, raise money for the Family Dynamix Women’s Safe Home Program and spend time with your MOM! Sign up at fairmonthotsprings.com

CONGRATULATIONS

TO OUR 2023-24 SCHOLARSHIP AND AWARD WINNERS. WE’RE SO PROUD OF ALL YOU’VE ACHIEVED.

A SPECIAL THANK YOU, to the donors businesses, corporations, families, and community clubs who so generously contribute to our scholarship, bursary, and awards program not only change educational opportunities for College of the Rockies students, but also change lives. We are so grateful for you all.

This stretch of 12th Street may be transformed this summer into a pedestrian-only area by the Invermere Business Committee, with activities, entertainment, food trucks and more. PHOTO JENNY HUBRECHT

OUT OF OFFICE…

Pop Up Coworking in the Columbia Valley

Submitted by Columbia Valley Economic Development

Remember the Mountain Hub located in downtown Invermere? It was a fantastic place for entrepreneurs, remote works, and students to come together and work independently. Just as it was booming, Mountain Hub was forced to close in 2020. A lot has happened in the last four years, including many new entrepreneurs and remote workers relocating to the Columbia Valley. Columbia Valley Economic Development has seen a surge of interest from individuals seeking collaborative work environments. Responding to this demand, we are set to host pop-up working days, giving people an opportunity to experience coworking and to gage demand for a full-time coworking space. So, what exactly is coworking? At its core, coworking involves shared workspaces where individuals from diverse backgrounds, industries, and companies come together to work independently in a communal setting. These spaces offer more than just a desk and Wi-Fi; they foster a sense of community, collaboration, and productivity.

For home-based businesses and remote workers, coworking spaces provide a valuable alternative to the isolation of working from home. Sometimes, especially in summer, cafes can be too busy. By joining a coworking community, individuals can break free from the confines of their home offices and enjoy the benefits of a professional work environment without the corporate constraints.

Coworking spaces are evolving to accommodate the changing needs of remote workers in the digital age. With the rise of remote work, flexibility is key, and coworking spaces are adapting accordingly. Many now offer flexible membership options, ranging from daily passes to monthly subscriptions, allowing individuals to tailor their workspace experience to their schedule and budget.

In essence, coworking represents a paradigm shift in how we approach work. It transcends traditional office boundaries, fostering a culture of openness, collaboration, and innovation. As the Columbia Valley embraces this trend, it opens doors to new opportunities for local businesses, entrepreneurs, and remote workers alike. By hosting pop-up working days, the

valley is not only bringing home based workers together, but also laying the groundwork for a more vibrant and connected future of work. If you are interested in co-working, join our email list to be notified of upcoming pop-up events. You can also email advisor@cvchamber.ca or text Theresa at 250-688-9663.

Thursday, May 2

• 11:00am-12:00pm. Hiring & Onboarding with Sarah Moseley. CV Chamber of Commerce. Join Sarah Moseley, CPHR for Hiring and Onboarding Best Practices. In this session we will explore best practices for hiring and onboarding in a tight labour market. Free. Register at cvchamber.ca.

• 10:00am-2:00pm: Pickleball. Invermere Curling Club. Drop in.

• 10:15am-1:00pm: Tech Tutors. Invermere Public Library

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

• 11:30am-12:00pm: Little Lambs – Baby Program. Radium Public Library. Join us for songs, rhymes, and stories with your babies! No registration required.

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

• 2:00pm-4:00pm: Tech Tutors. Radium Public Library. Free one-on-one help with your computer, phone or tablet!  Assistance with websites or electronic forms.  Learn about games on your phone or iPad.  Please book an appointment with the library you would like to attend. By Columbia Basin Alliance for Literacy.

• 5:30pm-7:30pm. Come Cook with Me. College of the Rockies. Free. Cooking for families.  Learn recipes and cooking tips while making healthy, budget-friendly meals.  All supplies provided.  Registration required.

• 6:30pm-8:30pm: Pickleball. Invermere Curling Club. Advanced Round Robin.

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

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

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

Friday, May 3

• 7:00pm-9:00pm: Valley Voices Spring Concert. Christ Church Trinity. Join the Valley Voices and Bryant Olender - and special guests the Eileen Madson Primary School Choir - for Broadway Gold  an evening of song and dance from classic Broadway musicals such as Chicago, Cabaret, and The Phantom of the Opera. Tickets at Purple Cow, Inspire Floral Boutique, Radium Public Library.

• 10:00am-2:00pm: Pickleball. Invermere Curling Club. Drop in.

• 10:30am-11:00am: Family Storytime. Invermere Public Library. Join us weekly on Fridays for Family Storytime at the library! With stories, songs & a craft. Geared towards preschool age (2-5) but all welcome.

• 2:30pm-4:00pm: Wild Woolies. Radium Public Library. Whether you are a seasoned crocheter or picking up a set of knitting needles for the first time, everyone is welcome to share techniques, enjoy friendly conversation, and connect with fellow craftspeople as you work on your project. Drop In.

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

• 6:30pm-8:30pm: Pickleball. Invermere Curling Club. Open Play.

Saturday, May 4

• 1:00pm-8:30pm: Local Lineup – Community Festival. Radius Retreat. Join us on Saturday, May 4th as we gather together to shake off the winter, welcome the summer, and revel in the spirit of our incredible local community! This day promises non-stop entertainment and fun for the young and the young at heart. Get your tickets before April 7 and be in the running for some fantastic Early Bird Prizes!! Tickets: https://www.radiusretreat.com/events-1

• 7:00pm-9:00pm: Valley Voices Spring Concert. Christ Church Trinity. Join the Valley Voices and Bryant Olender - and special guests the Eileen Madson Primary School Choir - for Broadway Gold  an evening of song and dance from classic Broadway musicals such as Chicago, Cabaret, and The Phantom of the Opera. Tickets at Purple Cow, Inspire Floral Boutique, Radium Public Library.

• 9:30am-11:30am: Ready, Set, Learn! Pothole Park. Join other families and caregivers with pre-school aged children at a FREE Ministry of Education and Child Care funded family oriented event. Receive information about FREE local early learning programming and services available for you and your child.

• 10:00am-2:00pm: Pickleball. Invermere Curling Club. Drop in.

• 10:30am-11:00am: Family Storytime. Invermere Public Library. Join us weekly on Saturdays for Family Storytime at the library! With stories, songs & a craft. Geared towards preschool age (2-5) but all welcome.

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

• 2:00pm-4:00pm: Buddy Reading. Invermere Public Library. Contact us to book a 30 minute session to read with a librarian. Practice reading aloud one-on-one to build skill, confidence & a love of reading! Open to all ages and reading abilities.

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

Sunday, May 5

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

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

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

Monday, May 6

• Wings Over the Rockies. The week-long nature festival with over 100 events, will focus on the "big picture" interconnections of wildlife, landscapes, people and beyond into the starry skies. www.wingsovertherockies.org

• 10:00am-2:00pm: Pickleball. Invermere Curling Club. Drop in.

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

• 2:00pm-4:00pm: Little Explorers. Kinsmen Beach. Outdoor learning for children ages 2 - 6 and caregivers. Siblings welcome! Ageappropriate learning about our natural surroundings - nature walks, hunts, games and crafts. Come prepared to have fun outdoors and get dirty.  Dress appropriately for the weather! Registration is required: wvcoordinator@cbal.org or 250-409-4251.

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

Tuesday, May 7

• Wings Over the Rockies. The week-long nature festival with over 100 events, will focus on the "big picture" interconnections of wildlife, landscapes, people and beyond into the starry skies. www.wingsovertherockies.org

• 6:30pm-9:00pm: Movie Night, Dune:Part Two. CV Centre. Dune: Part Two is a must-watch epic sci-fi, visually stunning adventure that could already be considered one of the best movies of the year!

• 10:00am-2:00pm: Pickleball. Invermere Curling Club. Drop in.

• 10:30am-11:30am: Homeschool Meetup. Drop-in, all-ages programming with open-ended STEAM play, group activities and art projects. A chance for homeschool kids and families to get together!

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

• 6:30pm-8:00pm: Second Winds Community Band. Practice at Invermere Catholic Church Annex. For info please email dalvande@ shaw.ca

• 6:30pm-8:30pm: Pickleball. Invermere Curling Club. Skills & Drills #1

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

• Wednesday, May 8

• Wings Over the Rockies. The week-long nature festival with over 100 events, will focus on the "big picture" interconnections of wildlife, landscapes, people and beyond into the starry skies. www.wingsovertherockies.org

• 10:00am-2:00pm: Pickleball. Invermere Curling Club. Drop in.

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

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

• 3:00pm-4:30pm: After School Club. Invermere Library. A window of transition time between school and home or extra-curriculars. Come colour, bead, play with LEGO and catch up with friends! Open to all school-aged kids and teens. Drop-off allowed for Grade 2 students and up. Younger kids are welcome with a grown-up. Please bring your own snacks! Register. https://invermere.bc.libraries.coop/

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

• 6:30pm-8:30pm: Pickleball. Invermere Curling Club. Ladies Night

Invermere on the Lake

DISTRICT OF INVERMERE

914 – 8th Avenue, PO Box 339 Invermere, BC V0A 1K0

Tel: (250) 342-9281 Fax: (250) 342-2934

EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY

Position: Utilities Clerk 1

Department: Finance

Status: CUPE - Regular Full Time

Classification:

Clerk

The District of Invermere has an opening for a Utility Clerk 1 position in the Finance Department which is a full-time position consisting of 35 hours per week.Reporting to the Director of Finance, the position assists in ensuring the financial solvency of the corporation by implementing systems, collecting utility fees, ensuring accurate payments on accounts, and providing exceptional customer service.

Under the general supervision of the Director of Finance, the Utility Clerk coordinates and maintains effective records and systems to support the issuance of utilities invoices, collections, and the issuance of receipts in accordance with the District’s bylaws and procedures. The Utilities Clerk also prepares reports and remittances associated with the above, assists with annual audit requirements, and assists with front counter inquiries and provides general clerical support to other departments. Applicants interested in applying for this position must possess the following skills and abilities:

SPECIFIC DUTIES:

Ensure accuracy of invoices, receipts, and adjustments.

Apply monthly penalties (when required).

Ensure collection of all outstanding utility invoices.

Ensure coordination and accuracy of water meter readings.

• Use and maintain applicable software program to remotely read water meters.

Update ownership and/or address information.

Provide utility billing information to customers.

Maintain direct debit list for payment of utilities.

• Ensure work orders are submitted to Public Works & Operations staff for utility accounts.

Follow up on all work orders with Public Works & Operations staff.

Create utility billing adjustments when required, for approval by the Supervisor.

Prepare daily bank deposits.

• Process accounts receivable for business licenses.

Serve as point of contact for accounts receivable for utilities inquiries.

Maintain building permit, business license, and cemetery records for the District using VADIM software.

Provide back-up support to other office functions as required.

Perform other duties as assigned.

Applicants interested in applying for this position must possess the following skills and abilities:

Two years or more of recent experience in an administrative support role.

Proficiency with Microsoft Office suite and Adobe.

Considerable knowledge of administrative practices, procedures, and standard protocols.

Basic knowledge of accounting practices and procedures, and functional competency in same.

• Ability to communicate effectively with the public, elected officials, other staff including management both verbally and in writing.

Ability to communicate effectively in writing, including the preparation of reports and a wide variety of correspondence. Exceptional atention to detail.

Ability to work independently with minimal supervision, as well as working in a team environment.

• Excellent organizational, time management, and priority assessment skills including ability to perform effectively while under pressure.

Ability to defuse sensitive situations in a tactful and professional manner.

This position is within C.U.P.E. 2982 bargaining unit. The current wage rate for this position falls within the range of $33.01 - $33.96 per hour plus benefits as detailed in the Collective Agreement. The Utility Clerk position is expected to work 35 hours per week Monday to Friday from 8:30 am to 4:30 pm.

A job description for this position is available at www.invermere.net

Persons interested in applying for this position are invited to submit their resumes by 2:00 pm on Tuesday, May 21st, 2024 to:

District of Invermere

Attn: Kindry Luyendyk, Corporate Officer Box 339, Invermere, BC, V0A 1K0

Email: corporateservices@invermere.net

We thank all applicants for their interest; however, only those considered for an interview will be contacted.

New elk gate a big success

By Steve Hubrecht  steve@columbiavalleypioneer.com

Walk on through, wildlife.

Last week the Pioneer reported on local residents keen to help elk calves that were getting separated from their mothers by a fence. Residents along Elk Horn Boulevard had noticed the situation and were working to install a gate to keep the elk together.

That gate was installed not long after the Pioneer went to press with last week’s issue, and those involved were delighted to update that the gate seems to have solved the problem.

“I am ecstatic. We had what felt like a stampede of elk go through the gate the very first day it was up,” Margot McMaster told the Pioneer. “I think it must have been 30 animals or more.”

Marianne Middelveen added that perhaps 60 elk total have used the gate since it went up.

“They really seem to be getting used to it (the gate) quite quickly, which is excellent. Hopefully when the calves come, the mothers will show the young how they can go through,” said Middelveen.

Elk calving season in the Rockies typically runs from mid-May through to July.

Middelveen expressed gratitude to the contractor who did the work, saying he realized the importance of the situation and “squeezed us in even though he really didn’t have time. It was very kind of him.”

The cost of installing a gate to let the elk through was not all that expensive, explained Middelveen — $300 for the materials (i.e the gate itself) and another $600 to install it. She encouraged other valley residents with fences to consider putting in gates or using wildlife-friendly fencing that is not barbed, and which has the bottom strand at least 18 inches off the ground, and the top strand at a maximum height of 40 inches.

The new elk gate is working exactly as intended. PHOTO MARGOT MCMASTER

Fort Point bridge may be replaced in 2024

By Steve Hubrecht  steve@columbiavalleypioneer.com

The aging Fort Point bridge will be replaced a lot sooner, and for a lot less money, than seemed the case just a few months ago.

The sorry state of the bridge and the need for upgrades have been discussed by Invermere council for years. But an estimated price of up to $5 million meant there was no rush to start the project, as council and staff searched high and low for cheaper alternatives.

When the $5 million estimate first came in, councillors were agog that a short, old wooden bridge might end up costing taxpayers the same amount as did the new Columbia Valley Centre or the Lake Windermere Resort Lands purchase (those projects, it’s worth pointing out, are two of the largest municipal undertakings in recent memory).

In the meantime, the issue became more urgent this past fall when an engineering report emphasized the bridge had at most three or four years left.

In response, in the interest of public safety, the District of Invermere restricted traffic on the bridge to single lane only, keeping it 1.5 metres away from the sidewalk, and put a speed limit of 30 kilometres per hour in place for the bridge.

The situation has kept local residents talking over the winter, particularly those in the Fort Point neighbourhood. The bridge spans the Canadian Pacific Kansas City Railway (CPKC; the company formerly known as CPR) and connects upscale Fort Point with downtown Invermere.

But last week Invermere director of public works Angela MacLean outlined a plan to replace the bridge later this year for a mere $1 million.

Why the suddenly lower price?

“We’re looking at using pre-fabricated steel bridges,” said MacLean, adding these are much more cost effective than custom-made concrete bridges, and also means the whole project can be done more quickly.   MacLean is eager to also replace the wooden bridge across Abel Creek that joins the back route to the CastleRock subdivision with Johnston Road.

This bridge too needs replacement, and if it is done in the same way (with a pre-fabricated replacement) at the same time as Fort Point bridge, the district will save even more money, she noted.

The $1 million cost to replace Fort Point bridge breaks down as: $475,000 for the pre-fabricated struc-

ture; $350,000 to remove the old bridge and install the new one; as well as a 20 per cent contingency.

The Abel Creek bridge will cost roughly $200,000 —  $87,000 for the bridge structure; $50,000 in removal and installation costs; additional fees for environmental monitoring; and a 20 per cent contingency.

Invermere council was delighted and quickly agreed to MacLean’s plan.

“I’m quite excited to see these new numbers (prices) compared with numbers we have seen in the past,” said councillor Gerry Taft.

“We need to replace these (bridges) and we’ll get to do it for a fraction of the cost.”

The Fort Point bridge has been the topic of discussion for some time, with a hefty price tag for replacement. But new numbers suggest it can be replaced much cheaper than the original $5 million estimate.

New summer sports camps coming soon

Submitted advertorial

This summer Invermere youth will have a great opportunity to immerse themselves in a new sports camp program that promises an exhilarating blend of skill-building, camaraderie, and fun.

Spearheaded by local physical education teacher and esteemed coach, Matt LeBourdais, these camps aim to ignite the passion for sports among young people.

The camps will take place at David Thompson Secondary School from July 1 to 5 for basketball enthusiasts, and from July 8 to 12 for volleyball aficionados.

Catering to a wide range of ages and skill levels, there's a day camp (8:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m.) tailored for the younger crowd (aged 8 to 13), while the night camp (7:30 to 9:30 p.m.) caters to high

school students aged 13 to 17.

LeBourdais was raised in Invermere and comes with a wealth of coaching and athletic experience.

He emphasizes that the primary objective of these camps is to ensure that every participant has a blast while honing their skills.

"Fun is our top priority," LeBourdais asserts. "We want kids to fall in love with these sports while enhancing their confidence, abilities, and fitness levels."

Camp registration is now open, offering parents an excellent opportunity to keep their kids engaged and active during the summer break.

Those interested in registering or seeking more information can reach out via lebourdaiscamps@gmail.com.

Don't miss out on this fantastic opportunity to immerse yourself in the thrill of sports and make unforgettable summer memories.

Basketball Camp

July 1-5 @ DTSS

Ages 8-13

(just finished grade 4 to just finished grade 7) 8:30am - 2:30pm

Cost for full week $375

Ages 13-17

(just finished grade 8 to just finished grade 11) 7:30 - 9:30pm

Cost for full week $125

Volleyball Camp

July 8-12 @ DTSS

Ages 8-13

(just finished grade 4 to just finished grade 7) 8:30am - 2:30pm

Cost for full week $375

Ages 13-17

(just finished grade 8 to just finished grade 11) 7:30 - 9:30pm

Cost for full week $125

For more information, or to register, email: lebourdaiscamps@gmail.com

units. The BC Wildfire Service will be there with an Initial Attack crew, wildland engine, and games for the kids. A concession will be available for lunch brought to you by Bolter Farms, Corner Veggies, and the Lions Club. EMERGENCY PREPAREDNESS FAIR Western Financial Place parking lot (1777 2 St N, Cranbrook) 10 am – 2 pm The East Kootenay FireSmart Program will be one of 12 exhibitors at the fair providing preparedness educational materials, games, and fun for the whole family. Upcoming FireSmart Neighbourhood Events in Grasmere, Audia Road (Rosen Lake), and Wilmer. To find out how you can get involved in the East Kootenay FireSmart Program, visit engage.rdek.bc.ca/firesmart

A bald eagle sits as sentry on a craggy limb off Westside Road over the expanse of Lake Windermere.

PHOTO CHRIS MOSELEY

Prisons viewed as new residential schools

By Julia Magsombol Local Journalism Initiative

Some people believe the treatment of Indigenous inmates in Canadian prisons is similar to what children endured in the residential school system.

"Prisons and jails have replaced residential schools," said Kim Beaudin, national vice-chief of the Congress of Aboriginal Peoples (CAP).

Beaudin noted that Indigenous Peoples are overrepresented in prison. APTN National News proved a point in their article in 2022 that indicated 32 per cent of the prison population in Canada is made up of Indigenous Peoples.

“I believe that they just don’t value them as people, as human beings.”

Kim Beaudin, vice-chief, CAP

Beaudin said this trend continues to grow. "People on bail don't have the ability to get out," he added.

A Secwépemc family launched a human rights complaint against Correctional Service Canada (CSC).

Norman LaRue, a member of Tk’emlúps te Secwépemc, is an inter-generational survivor of the former Kamloops Indian Residential School. He was accused of murder in the death of Gordon Seybold. LaRue said he had no role in the Whitehorse man's 2008 death.

Beaudin has been connecting and advising LaRue’s wife, Jenni LaRue, who described that her husband had faced racism and harassment from prison guards as well as forced separation from their family and culture in Pacific and Kent institutions.

Norman is a singer of traditional and ceremonial songs. Jenni said that he led the drum group at Pacific to teach younger inmates, but he was prevented from practising when he started calling out the discrimina-

tion against his family.

Jenni complained that in Kent institution, all communication with their family was stopped; this included phone calls and visits. Jenni was only allowed to call Norman for five minutes at Christmas last year — they needed to fight for this right.

"The constant harassment style when this happened — it was very hard because they cut off contact between my wife, my children, and I was not allowed to talk to my wife or my children for a period of somewhere between four to six months," Norman said in a phone interview from the Mission institution.

"They moved my husband from an Indigenous ‘Pathway’ unit to a maximum security unit," Jenni said.

Beaudin talked about the current system of maximum security levels in prison.

"Guards get paid extra money like danger pay if you're working with people that are in maximum security," Beaudin explained.

CTV News reported that more than 80 per cent of inmates in Ontario jails last year were legally innocent based on data.

Freedom of Information showed that on average, 82 per cent were in pre-trial detention, while 15 per cent had been sentenced.

"I believe, based on everything I've read and seen and heard from prisoners, that they [CSC] just don't value them (Indigenous) as people, as human beings,” Beaudin said.

The national vice-chief noted that people have sued CSC numerous times, but CSC usually settles out of court, and they try not to drag it to the courtroom.

"I'm a product of the federal government, and I am what they made me," Norman said on IndigiNews.

Norman is one of about 4,000 Indigenous inmates in Canada's prison system — whom CSC failed, according to the federal prison watchdog.

To read more on Norman’s case, visit https:// indiginews.com/news/secwepemc-family-launches-human-rights-complaint-about-correctional-service-canada.

EDGEWATER SEWER FLUSHING

The Regional District of East Kootenay is gearing up for its regular maintenance work on the Edgewater sanitary sewer system to remove settled and accumulated material.

THIS MAINTENANCE IS SCHEDULED FOR MAY 6-10, 2024.

During this process, the contractor will be setting up their flushing apparatus at each service access (manhole) in the roadway and releasing pressurized water through the sanitary sewer main pipe to remove buildup.

A bubbling and/or vacuum effect may be noticed in your drains and toilets due to this maintenance flushing.

It is recommended to keep all toilet seats closed and cover any floor drains.

Internal plumbing consists of “P” Traps, which hold a volume of water to prevent sewer gas from migrating. During the flushing process, this water could be drawn out of the traps. For that reason, it is important to refill all plumbing traps by running the water in your sinks and floor drains after the work is complete.

This preventative maintenance process is necessary to reduce the potential for a sanitary sewer main backup which could result in damage to property. Residents can help keep the system clean year-round by ensuring fats, oils, or greases are properly disposed of and never poured down a drain or flushed.

The RDEK would like to thank you for your patience during this regular maintenance.

For more information, contact: Tom Altmann, RDEK Utilities Superintendent | taltmann@rdek.bc.ca or 1-250-342-0063

The Hospice Society of the Columbia Valley is accepting applications for a Volunteer Program Coordinator. If you have a talent in leading and motivating people, we welcome your application.

Qualities the successful applicant will demonstrate include:

• Ability to collaborate with volunteers, staff, and stakeholders from various backgrounds, as well as build and support community relationships.

• Adept in motivating and guiding volunteers through constructive feedback.

• Able to develop evaluation templates and write efficient reports.

• Skilled in managing multiple tasks while keeping detailed records.

• Knowledge of marketing, social media, and recruitment tactics to attract, engage, and retain volunteers.

• Experience in designing and implementing effective training workshops for volunteers.

• Proficient with standard office equipment and software.

The successful applicant will possess a combination of education and experience: a post-secondary degree/diploma in a related field (social work, team leadership and/or administration, and experience working with a non-profit organization.

Regular hours are 22.5 hours weekly with the possibility of working up to 30 hours per week. This role offers flexible schedule to balance the needs of the volunteers, HSCV, and the coordinator. We offer a competitive salary.

Applicants must submit their resume with a cover letter to office@hospicesocietycv.com by May 17th, 2024, and be ready to start in June. Only qualified candidates will be considered.

CAP believes that Indigenous prisoners are not valued as human beings. PHOTO ALEX RATHS/GETTY IMAGES

CVCF to distribute over $150K in scholarships

Submitted

Columbia Valley Community Foundation (CVCF) continues to support youth with more than $150,000 earmarked for scholarships and bursaries this year.

Invermere on the

Lake

Awards can be applied to accredited educational or training programs, therefore, students attending universities, colleges, technical and trade schools should apply.

To fulfill donor wishes, applicants must have spent their formative (K-12)

DISTRICT OF INVERMERE

914 – 8th Avenue, PO Box 339 Invermere, BC V0A 1K0

Tel: (250) 342-9281 Fax: (250) 342-2934

EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY

Position: Receptionist Clerk 1

Department: Corporate Services & Administration

Status: CUPE - Regular Full Time Classification: Clerk

The District of Invermere has an opening for a Reception/Cashier Clerk 1 position in its Corporate Services & Administration Department.

Under the general supervision of the Corporate Officer, the Reception/Cashier Clerk 1 position performs a variety of routine and non-routine clerical tasks, word processing, spread sheeting, record keeping, cashiering, photocopying, and other duties as assigned. In this role, you will provide administrative support and coordination for the Corporate Services and Administration Departments, both operationally as well as for special projects.

The Reception/Cashier Clerk 1 position is required to exercise some independent judgment and action within the limits of departmental systems and procedures. The Reception/Cashier Clerk 1 position must deal courteously and effectively with the public and municipal clients.

Applicants interested in applying for this position must possess the following skills and abilities:

Two years or more of recent experience in an administrative support role.

• Proficiency with Microsoft Office suite and Adobe and a minimum net keyboarding speed of 50 to 80 words per minute.

• Considerable knowledge of administrative practices, procedures, and standard protocols.

Ability to communicate effectively with the public, elected officials, other staff including management both verbally and in writing.

Working knowledge of and experience using standardized business letter formats, as well as record management systems.

Exceptional atention to detail.

• Ability to work independently with minimal supervision, as well as working in a team environment.

• Excellent organizational, time management, and priority assessment skills including ability to perform effectively while under pressure.

Ability to defuse sensitive situations in a tactful and professional manner. Possess excellent interpersonal skills.

The preferred candidate for this position will have completed a business college or secretarial program with extensive computer training. Municipal work experience would be an asset.

A job description for this position is available but is currently under review. This position is within C.U.P.E. 2982 bargaining unit. The current wage rate for this position falls within the range of $33.01 - $33.96 per hour plus benefits as detailed in the Collective Agreement. The Reception/Cashier Clerk position is expected to work 35 hours per week Monday to Friday from 8:30 am to 4:30 pm.

Persons interested in applying for this position are invited to submit their resumes by 2:00 pm on Tuesday, May 21st, 2024 to: District of Invermere

Attn: Kindry Luyendyk, Corporate Officer Box 339, Invermere, BC, V0A 1K0

Email: corporateservices@invermere.net

We thank all applicants for their interest; however, only those considered for an interview will be contacted.

years in the Columbia Valley, defined as the area stretching from Spillimacheen to Canal Flats.

“These awards are not just for new high school graduates heading off to college or university,” explains CVCF Executive Director Thiloma Hofer.

“Community members are eligible to receive awards twice in their lifetime and can apply between the ages of 17 and 35. So, if you have embarked on a new career and are retraining, we en-

Invermere

on the Lake

courage you to investigate this opportunity.”

The Arnold Ellis Scholarships, Bidder Bursary and Erwin Kloos Memorial Scholarship are applicable to any field of study. The Alan J. Witherspoon Memorial Fine Arts Fund provides support to those pursuing fine arts.

The deadline for applications is May 15 at 11:59 p.m. For further information and the online application link, please visit: www.valleyfoundation.ca.

EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY

Position: Public Works Assistant Department: Public Works & Operations

Status: CUPE - Regular Full Time Classification: Clerk

The District of Invermere has an opening for a Public Works Assistant Clerk 1 position in the Public Works & Operations Department.

Under the general supervision of the Director of Public Works & Operations and the Public Works Foreman, the Public Works Assistant Clerk 1 performs a wide range of professional administrative duties under tight deadlines, requiring a high level of accuracy, confidentiality, and discretion. In this role, you will provide administrative support and coordination for the Public Works & Operations Department, both operationally as well as for special projects. You will be the primary contact to respond to telephone and other enquires from municipal staff, as well as various outside organizations and the public.

Applicants interested in applying for this position must possess the following skills and abilities:

• Two years or more of recent experience in an administrative support role. Proficiency with Microso������ Office suite and Adobe.

Basic knowledge of accouting practices and procedures, and functional competency in same.

Ability to communicate effectively with the public, elected officials, other staff including management both verbally and in writing.

• Ability to communicate effectively in writing, including the preparation of reports and a wide variety of correspondence.

• Exceptional atention to detail.

Ability to work independently with minimal supervision, as well as working in a team environment.

Excellent organizational, time management, and priority assessment skills including ability to perform effectively while under pressure.

Ability to defuse sensitive situations in a tacful and professional manner.

This position is within C.U.P.E. 2982 bargaining unit. The current wage rate for this position falls within the range of $33.01 - $33.96 per hour plus benefits as detailed in the Collective Agreement. The Public Works Assistant Clerk 1 position is expected to work 35 hours per week Monday to Friday from 8:30 am to 4:30 pm.

Persons interested in applying for this position are invited to submit their resumes by 2:00 pm on Tuesday, May 21st, 2024 to:

District of Invermere

Attn: Kindry Luyendyk, Corporate Officer Box 339, Invermere, BC, V0A 1K0

Email: corporateservices@invermere.net

We thank all applicants for their interest; however, only those considered for an interview will be contacted.

SPORTS

Another selection of photos from Wednesday, April 10, when the Windermere Valley Minor Hockey Association (WVMHA) marked the success of its young athletes at its annual awards night.

PHOTOS CHRIS MOSELEY

PIONEER CLASSIFIEDS

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

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

Narcotics Anonymous. Open meeting.

Mondays 7 pm at the BC Service Building, South End. 624-4th St. Invermere

Windermere Valley Rural Range Resources Patrol AGM

Tuesday May 14, 2024 7 – 9pm, Chamber of Commerce meeting room

Cheers to Cindy and Jennyfer for the great lunch date. It was nice to catch up.

Cheers to Catherine and Mary at Invermere McDonald’s for the great friendly service. Always smiling and willing to go that extra mile.

Cheers to Elizabeth S. for your kind words. We appreciate the compliment. Cheers to Evan at Huckleberry’s. Your first day on the job and you did great!

Sherry Lee Goldsmith

October 6, 1957 - April 28, 2024

Sherry Lee was born in Durham, Ontario on October 6, 1957. She passed away on April 28, 2024 in her 67th year, in Windermere, BC, where she resided for the last 45 years.

She is survived by her mother Shirley Atkinson, sisters Lucretia and Laurie and their families, her husband of 48 years Garry, her four children Jeremie (Linda), Brittany (Carl), Joshuah (Mallory), and Jordon (Michelle), and her 7 grandkids Brooklyn (Spencer), Chase, Avary, Myla, Journey, Kinslee, and Zoey.

The family would like to thank all of the care aids for their care and support over the last few months.

There will be no service as per Sherry Lee’s request.

B. B.’s Home and Design Services

Renovations, Masonry & Handyman Services, Blinds, House checks, eavestrough/ yard cleaning/dump runs. 250-688-2897 or 403-861-8782

THE HEARTFELT COMPANION

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

LESSONS at Fairmont Hot Springs with Rocky Mountain Swim lessons.  Book online at rockymountainswimlessons.ca

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

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

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

If you’re the best, you won’t ever have to worry about being paid above industry standards, our starting wage is $22/hr. We also offer an extremely flexible benefits package for team members who stay with us year round.

If this is the kind of challenge you are looking for, please email enquiries to: info@brigadeltd.com

Get-ER-Done Handyman Landscaping, Asphalt Pads, General Contracting, Cleaning Gutters, House Checks, Pressure Washing. Call Ryan 604-346-5087

LAWN RANGER

Cheers to our server Cait at The View Restaurant at Copper Point. We had lunch on  Saturday and the service was fantastic!

Cheers to Pat A. for treating me to lunch on Saturday . It was nice to see you and catch up. It was great food and conversation. I appreciate your kindness and generosity.  Huge Cheers to Everett Frater & crew and to Dallas & Alex of Rockworks for doing such a great job of sprucing up our lawn & beds, we couldn’t do it without your help.

Last four acreages in Elkhorn Country Estates. 2.5 to 2.89 acre parcels. Individual wells, no building time commitment. Starting at $329,000 + GST For more information, contact Elkhorn Ranches: 250-342-1267 www.elkhornranches.com

250-342-9222

Lawn & Dump Services

• Yard Cleans

• Hedge & Brush Trims

• Dump Runs

Alpine Building Operations is looking for lawn maintenance staff at Panorama Resort. Duties include mowing, weed trimming, garbage removal, skid steer operation and general labor.

Phone: 250-270-0435

Email: alpinebuildingops@gmail.com

Bay ElectricalLooking for experienced Electrician. Wages negotiable. Please forward resume to : cliff@taybay.ca or call Cliff : 250-342- 1355

Taynton

Food Truck Line Cook

Toby Creek Adventures is currently hiring a full-time seasonal (June - October) line cook to operate our food trailer. This is a great opportunity for a motivated self starter who works well with minimal supervision, has a keen eye for detail and dedication to quality and consistency. The deluxe trailer boasts a full stainless kitchen, stocked with all necessary kitchen tools and equipment. We have an excellent history of staff retention and offer a fun working environment with great perks!

Responsibilities

• Set up and stock stations with supplies

• Prepare food for service

• Cook menu items in a coordinated and timely fashion

• Plate food attractively in takeout containers

• Clean up stations and store food appropriately

• Wash dishes from prep, cooking and storage with three sink method End of day and weekly cleaning duties

Comply with food safety industry standards

• Ensure that high standards of cleanliness are met

• Assist the food and beverage supervisor with product orders

• Meet and exceed customer expectations

• Adjust and respond to business levels throughout the day

• Operate POS system and handle payments

Requirements

Proven cooking experience as a Line Cook, minimum 1 year preferred

Diploma/Degree in Culinary Arts or related discipline considered an asset

• Current BC Foodsafe Level 1

• Familiarity with industry best practices

• Experience with POS system or willingness to learn

• Able to work weekends, Thursday - Sunday, 10 hour shifts (lunch/early dinner) Other Requirements

• Self-starter, well-organized and independently motivated

• Upbeat, high-energy, enthusiastic, and engaged Ability to greet and interact with customers cheerfully & professionally

• Ability to work under pressure with accuracy, efficiency, and attention to detail

• Works well with others and supports the team efforts to get the job done

• Accepts and overcomes challenges

• Must enjoy the outdoors

• Willing to work in all weather

Hourly Wage: To be determined based on qualifications & experience of the successful applicant.

RDEK encourages residents to be ready

Sign up for ENS to prepare for crises

Submitted by RDEK

Emergency Preparedness Week is May 5 to11 and the RDEK is encouraging residents to ready themselves and their families.

This year’s theme is “using technology before, during and after emergencies," and making sure that you are signed up for the regional Evacuation Notification System (ENS) is a large part of that preparation.

“The notification system is only used for evacuation alerts or orders and has been implemented as an additional tool to help us get the word out as quickly as possible to affected areas when time is of the essence,” says RDEK communications manager Loree Duczek.

The RDEK is urging residents to register soon by it is planning a region-wide test of the system on Friday, May 10 at 2 p.m.

The ENS is powered by Voyent Alert! to keep residents and property owners informed in case of evacuation orders

or alerts during critical events such as wildfires, floods or hazardous material incidents. The notification system is an important tool for residents to have since flooding and wildfire are two hazards in the East Kootenay.

“It is important as well for those who have already signed up for the system, to make sure that their properties are pinned in the correct location. We have come across many residents who have signed up, only to discover later that they have not placed their pins in the right spot,” says Duczek. “This means they may be receiving an Evacuation Alert or Order when they don’t need to be, or more concerningly, not receiving those crucial notifications when they should be.”

Those who would like to ensure that they have correctly located their property can do so through the website, app, or call the RDEK for help. For instructions on how to sign up for the service and receive notifications by phone or via a dedicated app, visit the emergency information page on www.rdek.bc.ca.

In addition to the test of the ENS, the RDEK will be focusing its communications on how residents can help ensure they are prepared in the event they experience an emergency event.

“From making an emergency kit, to having – and practising – a family escape plan, there are a number of simple, but important things each of us can do to be better prepared,” says Duczek.

To access toolkits, how-to guides and more, visit www.getprepared.ca.

Saturday, May 4 is also Wildfire Community Preparedness Day, which is intended to encourage residents to learn about FireSmart and take steps to help reduce the risk of wildfire on their homes and properties.

Are you signed up for the Evacuation Notification System? The RDEK hopes you will do so very soon.

PHOTO TAWNYA TOMBAUGH

Stumped - This “silly goose” uses an unorthodox perch on a dead tree stump to check out its surroundiings in Fairmont down by the river. “I’ve never seen a goose stand atop a stump before,” says photographer Andrew Scott.

EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITIES

AS THE SUCCESSFUL CANDIDATE YOU ARE:

• Computer literate with experience in land management systems & Microsoft Office Suite.

• Able to coordinate projects involving multiple departments and agencies.

• Able to explain complex technical concepts and plans to non-technical people.

• Able to manage construction projects using established project management practices and tools including computer-based project management software to ensure objectives, budgets, and timelines are met.

• Able to prepare clear and concise reports.

ESSENTIAL QUALIFICATIONS:

• Civil Engineering undergraduate degree.

• Certificate in Project Management.

• BC Driver’s Licence.

ESSENTIAL QUALIFICATIONS:

• Progressive experience (one to five years) maintaining water and wastewater utilities, preferably in a local government setting.

• Class I, II or III Water Treatment and Water Distribution Operator Certificates.

• Class I, II or III Wastewater Collection and Wastewater Treatment Operator Certificates.

• Possession of a Chlorine Handling Certificate.

• Valid British Columbia Driver’s Licence

KEY SKILLS & ABILITIES:

• Thorough knowledge of the operation and maintenance of water and wastewater systems and applicable government regulations.

• Excellent communication and organizational skills.

• Working knowledge of Microsoft Office and SCADA monitoring systems.

• Ability to establish and maintain professional and effective working relationships with contractors, developers, applicable regulating agencies, staff, and the general public.

This is a permanent, full-time (35 hours per week), Union position with an hourly rate of $47.44 - $49.83/hour.

If you possess the necessary qualifications and experience, we invite you to submit a resume and cover letter, with references no later than 4:30 pm Tuesday, May 21, 2024, to:

Ashley Grobell, Human Resources Manager

Email: hr@rdek.bc.ca (Please quote: 2024-17)

Information on our organization is available at www.rdek.bc.ca/careers

AS THE SUCCESSFUL CANDIDATE YOU ARE:

• Able to complete assignments with attention to detail, a high degree of accuracy, and confidentiality.

• Computer literate with experience in land management systems and Microsoft Office Suite.

• Able to engage with fellow employees, the public, and outside agencies in a courteous manner.

• Able to establish and maintain effective working relationships.

• Knowledgable of cash management systems.

• Able to maintain composure and find solutions when dealing with difficult customers.

• Able to organize work schedules to meet deadlines and priorities.

ESSENTIAL QUALIFICATIONS:

• One year Office Administration Certificate.

• One year administrative experience.

a

This is a permanent, full-time (35 hours per week) Union position with a starting salary hourly rate of $34.08/hr to $44.72/hr depending on qualifications.

If you possess the necessary qualifications and experience, we invite you to submit a resume and cover letter, with references no later than 12:30 pm Tuesday, May 14, 2024, to:

Ashley Grobell, Human Resources Manager

Email: hr@rdek.bc.ca (Please quote: 2024-15)

Information on our organization is available at www.rdek.bc.ca/careers

We thank all who apply. Only those selected for further consideration will be contacted.

We thank all who apply. Only those selected for further consideration will be contacted. This is a

rate $29.74/hour. The employment term is expected to be 1 year.

If you possess the necessary qualifications and experience, we invite you to submit a resume and cover letter with references, no later than 12:30 pm Tuesday, May 14, 2024, to:

Ashley Grobell, Human Resources Manager

Email: hr@rdek.bc.ca (Please quote: 2024-16)

Information on our organization is available at www.rdek.bc.ca/careers

We thank all who apply. Only those selected for further consideration will be contacted.

SPORTS Columbia Valley Churches

Pickleball raises $ for PADS

Submitted

The Invermere Pickleball Club hosted a tournament recently as part of a province-wide event raising funds for the Pacific Assistance Dogs Society (PADS).

PADS provides service for people with disabilities and veterans and first responders with post traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). They also place dogs with professionals in victim services, health care, counselling, and education sectors to support vulnerable children and adults.

The Paddles For PADS tournament was a great success with players coming from Golden, Radium, Edgewater, Calgary and Chilliwack.

The day was jam packed with pickleball and also

included an online auction and 50/50 draw. In total, approximately $5,000 dollars was raised for PADS.

"A huge thank you to all the players who showed up for the event and to all the amazing businesses in our area who donated to our online auction. We have the best community,” said Lisa McIntosh, president of the Invermere Pickleball Club.

“It was so fun to have players from so many different centres. Lots of laughs were had and we learned a lot about the work of PADS."

PAD's trainer Chelsea Kovacs and her charge ‘Crumpet’ were on hand for the day mingling with the players and educating everyone on the work PADS does.

A recent tournament hosted by the Invermere Pickleball Club raised approximately $5,000 for Pacific Assistance Dogs Society (PADS).

SUBMITTED

LAKE WINDERMERE ALLIANCE CHURCH

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

WINDERMERE VALLEY SHARED MINISTRY ANGLICAN-UNITED

Minister: Brent Woodard Sundays at 10:30 am, in-person or on Zoom. For the Zoom link, please visit our website at wvsm.ca. 110 - 7th Ave. in Invermere.

VALLEY CHRISTIAN ASSEMBLY

Pastor: Justin Furse

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

ROMAN CATHOLIC CHURCH

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

RADIUM CHRISTIAN FELLOWSHIP

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

CHURCH OF JESUS CHRIST OF LATTER-DAY SAINTS

EMP ‘leaders’ get bursary

Submitted

The ‘Lunch Leaders’ at Eileen Madson Primary School are Grade 3 students who volunteer during lunch to assist with younger classes.

Principal Rebecka Riddell-McKay recommended this group, whose members help other students open containers, clean up messes and, with the support of adult supervisors, provide guidance about behaviour. Sometimes they play games with the classes and provide entertainment. Then when lunch is over and the students are getting ready to go outside, the Lunch Leaders help students do up their coats, find missing mittens, and help resolve conflicts as everyone gets ready to play. To thank them for their efforts, these Lunch Leaders are treated to a pizza lunch, which this year was paid for by the generous donation from the Invermere Masons.

Presenter Rick Chapman’s first introduction to Freemasonry was through his father, who belonged to a Masonic Lodge in Vancouver. His next introduction to the fraternity was recently when he retired to Invermere and was looking for ways to be involved in the community. His son suggested the Masons. They both

applied and were received into the fellowship. They have met some very interesting people in the Mason fellowship and continue to be supporting members.

In the photo below, three students from Mr. Orr/ Mrs. Dawn's class, Mrs. McLennan's class, and Mrs. Jacobsen/Mrs. Tagg's class gratefully accept the cheque from Rick Chapman of Columbia Lodge #38

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

CHURCH

OF CHRIST (Iglesia ni Cristo)

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

PHOTO

The Hearing Loss Clinic has become an integral part of my family’s healthcare team. As an athlete and coming into the medical field myself, I can appreciate how each aspect of our health contributes to the bigger picture. Hearing health is an important part of how we interact with the world, which correlates to so many other parts of our humanity. It’s all connected. The Hearing Loss Clinic team really understands this and it shows in their passion for what they do and how they treat their patients, from the moment someone walks in the door to the final testing and fitting.