Vol13issue50

December 9, 2016 Vol. 50/Issue 13

Your Weekly Source for News and Events

The Columbia

Valley

The Columbia Valley Pioneer • 1 December 9, 2016

P ioneer

FREE

Serving The Upper Columbia Valley including Spillimacheen, Brisco, Edgewater, Radium, Invermere, Windermere, Fairmont and Canal Flats

JUMBO IN COURT

3 OPENING SOON

THE GRINCH STEALS THE SHOW A surprise appearance by the notorious Dr. Seuss character, The Grinch, delighted the crowds browsing the many vendor tables at the BIG Christmas Craft Fair at the Invermere Community Hall on Saturday, December 3rd. See page 29 for more weekend photos.

Photo by Eric Elliott

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2 • The Columbia Valley Pioneer

December 9, 2016

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Members of the Windermere Fire Department, with assistance from the Invermere Fire Department, responded to a residential house fire in Windermere in the afternoon on Monday, December 5th.

Approximately 14 firefighters arrived on scene and spent four hours fighting the fire.

“The house itself will be a total loss, but thanks to the quick action of the firefighters we were able to isolate the fire and the residents will be able to save many of their belongings,” explained Columbia Valley Rural Fire and Rescue Service Fire Chief, Jim Miller. There was no one home when the fire broke out and there were no injuries.

“The crew did a great job of keeping the fire from spreading to the neighbouring trees and residences,” added Mr. Miller.

Firefighters remained on the scene throughout the afternoon mopping up and dealing with hot spots.

The cause of the fire is under investigation.

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December 9, 2016

The Columbia Valley Pioneer • 3

VALLEY NEWS

Canadian Supreme Court hears Ktunaxa’s Jumbo case

By Steve Hubrecht Pioneer Staff A long-running legal battle is another step closer to resolution, after the Supreme Court of Canada heard the Ktunaxa First Nation’s case against Jumbo Glacier Mountain Resort last week.

The hearing occurred on Thursday, December 1st in Ottawa and was attended by a delegation of about a dozen Ktunaxa people. The various parties to the case are now awaiting the ruling for the nine Canadian Supreme Court judges.

“Really, this about whether or not our beliefs do have standing and need to be considered when statutory decision-makers make their decisions,” Ktunaxa Nation Council chair told The Pioneer after the hearing. “Hopefully we will get some answers to the questions we are raising.”

“We respect that this is a serious issue related to Charter rights and Aboriginal interests. We respect the court process and look forward to the decision,” Ministry of Forests, Lands and Natural Resource Operations spokesperson Greig Bethel told The Pioneer. The ministry is the branch of provincial government with jurisdic-

tion over the planned Jumbo resort.

The Canadian Supreme Court hearing is the penultimate step in a case that began almost four and a half years ago, in July 2012, when the Ktunaxa filed a petition with the B.C. Supreme Court (the final step will be the forthcoming ruling). The petition argued that the First Nation had not been properly consulted during the B.C. government’s approval process for the resort, which resulted in a Master Development Agreement. It further argued that building such a resort in the Upper Jumbo Valley and Upper Farnham areas would violate the Ktunaxa’s Continued on page 28 . . .

Stetksi ‘shocked’ by Trudeau’s new take on electoral reform

By Eric Elliott Pioneer Staff After months of deliberation while travelling across the country, a special committee studying electoral reform is recommending that the Trudeau government design a new proportional voting system and hold a national referendum to assess Canadians’ support of it.

The 392-page majority report also made recommendations that the government should not proceed with mandatory or online voting at this time. Throughout the report, it noted that there was overwhelming support for a change from the current first-past-the-post system to that of proportional representation.

Last week during question period, Minister of Democratic Institutions Maryam Monsef blamed the special committee for its inability to properly carry out

their responsibilities — then issued an apology before the House the following day. Conservative Banff-Airdrie MP Blake Richards — who sits on the special committee and was interviewed for a story in the October 21st Pioneer — said this type of rhetoric demonstrates the Liberals unwillingness to take the committee’s recommendations seriously.

“It seems as though it’s mainly because it’s not the answers they were hoping to get,” he said, noting the committee did demonstrate the sentiment amongst Canadians that if the voting system is to be changed it should go to a referendum.

Since being elected, the Trudeau government has been adamant in their rejection of holding a referendum on electoral reform, claiming that the referendum was held 2015 in the national election.

“I’ve heard there could be other things as well in addition to the referendum, but Continued on page 30 . . .

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December 9, 2016

hicles he had struck and attended the detachment. Columbia Valley RCMP were able to get a hold of both owners. All parties were given information and instructed to call ICBC to start claims. The Ford Escape and the F350 were both drivable. The Toyota Camry was towed for repairs. The F350 sustained damage to the passenger side of vehicle where it came into contact with both vehicles. The Escape sustained rear bumper damage only. The Toyota sustained severe rear damage and a blown out back windshield. The driver took photographs, which were sent to police. The steep hill between the two apartment complexes was covered with recent snowfall and not sanded or graveled, with less-than-desirable driving conditions. As such, no violation ticket was issued to the driver.

• On Thursday, December 1st at 10:15 a.m., a 33-year-old Invermere resident called Columbia Valley RCMP to report that there was a male sleeping behind a local concrete business and it appeared that the male had been involved in a motor vehicle accident as there was a banged up Mazda Protege in the parking lot of the business. Police attended and spoke with the 23-year-old Revelstoke man who was asleep in a sleeping bag behind the business. He reported that he had hit an elk at around 2 a.m., which totaled his vehicle. He then drove to the nearby business to await a friend who was coming from Revelstoke to pick him up. He had planned to wake up at first light, however, in his mountain-equipped sleeping bag, he overslept. He stated that he did not have a phone to report the accident, but flagged down a highways truck who picked up the elk carcass. Damage to the Protege was consistent with striking an animal. Photographs were taken. The driver stayed at Skandia with the complainant who was allowing him to use the phone there and await his ride to pick him up. Police left the driver with numbers for local tow companies. He reported he was not going through insurance as the vehicle was only worth $650 and he is moving back to Australia.

The driver suffered a minor cut to his hand and his air bags were not deployed, however, his front windshield was completely shattered.

Submitted by Cpl. Grant Simpson Columbia Valley RCMP Licensed & Insured Invermere & Surrounding Areas

Seasons Greetings Thrift Store Holiday Hours Last week of sales is December 15th, 16th and 17th.

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Columbia Valley RCMP responded to 64 calls for service over the past week.

Here are just a few of them: • On Tuesday, November 29th at 8:52 p.m., Columbia Valley RCMP received a report from a 51-year-old Invermere man advising that he had struck an elk on Highway 93/95 just south of Athalmer Road, Invermere. He added that there appeared to be no damage to his Nissan Xterra, but that the elk was still alive and would need to be put down. Police responded to the report and, after confirming that the vehicle was undamaged, attended the area where the elk had been struck. Once on scene, police humanely dispatched the very large cow elk.

• On Wednesday, November 30th at 5:14 p.m., Columbia Valley RCMP received a report of a single vehicle accident in Kootenay National Park on Highway 93 at Mckay Creek. Park staff advised that the vehicle had ended up in Mckay Creek and two occupants were inside with minor injuries. Police responded to the report and once on scene met with park staff and EHS who were treating the driver, a 56-year-old Calgary man who had received a minor laceration above his eye. He advised that while travelling westbound on Highway 93 coming down a steep incline and around a sharp curve in the road, he lost control of his vehicle and ended up going off road right into the ditch. The vehicle, a ‘99 R300 Lexus, ended upright in Mckay Creek with both airbags deployed. As road conditions at the time of the accident were extremely slippery and no other vehicles were involved, the driver was not charged.

• On Thursday, December 1st at 8:52 a.m., a 43-year-old Edgewater man called to report that he had just collided with two parked vehicles at the apartment complex on 11th Avenue near the Hillcrest. He stated that he was driving his Ford F350 down the steep hill from the Hillcrest parking lot to the lower complex when he lost traction and his truck slid down into the parking lot, striking a Ford Escape and a Toyota Camry. The driver left his information for the owners with the ve-

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The Columbia Valley Pioneer • 5

Micro abattoir gets ready to open

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“There are two things that went really well with our operation After months of and one is our conconstruction, followtractor that we had in ing years of planning, Chris Wiegert who rethe Windermere Disally worked with us and trict Farmers’ Institute was committed, and the is finishing up the final fact that we got Grant touches on the local miKelly (owner of Grant’s cro abattoir with plans Foods) on board,” she to open for business in said. “Those are the two January 2017.

AGRICULTURAL ACHIEVEMENT — Local government of- big points for us that The project, located ficals toured the valley’s new abattoir facility on December 6th. make me feel comfortjust southwest of the Photo by Eric Elliott able that this is going to Invermere Crossroads, go really well.” has been years in the making and the Farmers’ Institute Mrs. Trescher thinks having a local abattoir may reheld their official tour of the completed abattoir on Tues- vitalize the local agricultural industry in the valley with day, December 6th. Local dignitaries were able to see the more people taking advantage of their currently unused state-of-the-art facility on the tour, which included a walk farmland. through of the holding area, where as many as 10 heads of “If you look at, up the valley, underused farm land, cattle can be stored, and of each room that the livestock (it’s) 50 per cent underused farm land and why? Because will move through during the slaughtering process. what are you going to do with it? You can’t market it,” Gerry Wilkie, Area G Director for the RDEK, said she said. “The (agriculture) market is there, especially the he was impressed with the look of the facility and is ex- people with the small acreages — they would use them cited for what it could mean for the agricultural industry productively. If they produce enough, they could get in the Columbia Valley. farm status, tax advantage, the land would look better “In the old days, I saw some of the old facilities and if it’s taken care of rather than just falling down fences.” it was pretty gruesome with just ply-wood thrown toOne of the concerns throughout the process voiced gether, but this is first class,” he said. “Having the abat- by the public has been the humaneness in slaughtering toir and one that’s designed on such a high level, it’s just livestock along with the potential smell from the facility. going to be a real cornerstone for food production in the Mr. Kelly said that he still hears those concerns from the valley. It goes a long way to our hope that we have to di- public, he expects they will fade away as people familiarversify our economy. The more diversity we have in our ize themselves with the process. economy, the better it is.”

“The ones (livestock) that come through here, come Farmers’ Institute projects co-ordinator Hedi Tre- from a farm less than an hour away, probably onto a small scher said that when the new regulations were enacted truck and meet their doomsday,” he said. “I get comfort in 2004 that forced all abattoirs to be government-in- in that because the other side of it (not having a local spected, it destroyed the local agricultural industry be- abattoir) is that they’re packed onto a big truck with lots cause they didn’t have a way to ensure their product was of other animals travelling three hours or maybe more inspected. Since then, the Farmers’ Institute has worked and where it goes after that, no one knows.” through challenges such as zoning, funding and finding Mr. Kelly said they have already been receiving rean operator to run the facility to get the finished product quests from local farmers and hope to begin operations to where they are today. using a small staff next month.

By Eric Elliott Pioneer Staff

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6 • The Columbia Valley Pioneer

December 9, 2016

PERSPECTIVE Historical Lens

Dumb and dumber

By Eric Elliott Pioneer Staff

The Liberal Party has set up an online survey to learn what you think about electoral reform. After months of the all-party committee gathering opinion while travelling across the country on the taxpayer’s dime, yes, they claim they want to hear what Canadians think about electoral reform.

Except, not really.

At no point did the survey actually ask me what I thought about electoral reform. Nor did it ask me if I thought a referendum was something that the government should consider when addressing this issue.

Instead, it goes through a mundane, irrelevant and mostly useless process of determining your values, before going into your preferences and priorities for Canada’s democracy. The survey briefly touches upon issues such as mandatory voting while politicizing online voting with qualifiers on every question in an obvious attempt to sway you from the current paper ballot method.

In the results, the survey spits out a Buzzfeed-style answer, pigeon-holing you into where you fit along the political spectrum so that you know where you sit on the issue.

The whole process is an insult to Canadians’ intelligence. There’s no doubt that it’s difficult to understand the differences between various voting systems such as mixedmember proportional representation and single-transferable vote. That said, if the government truly believes that it wants to hear what Canadians think, why then are they telling Canadians what they think? How ludicrous would it be if we were to transfer that to other aspects of life such as Christmas wish lists — telling children they actually want that homey sweater rather than the new Lego set?

It doesn’t make sense in that case and it certainly doesn’t make sense for the future of Canada’s democracy.

At the end, the survey told me that I was an “Innovator” — someone open to new ideas to improve the way parliament works, someone who favours co-operation over competition when it comes to policies and prefers governments that seek compromise with other parties.

But I already knew all that. Why didn’t the government let me state what I thought about the real issues?

Looking classy In this image from the late 1920s, James L. Mckay, Will Wickwire and another man with a moustache pose for a picture. If you have any more information, email us at info@columbiavalleypioneer.com.

Photo (C1594) courtesy of the Windermere District Historical Society

This community should be proud Dear Editor: WOW! This valley deserves a HUGE pat on the back after the Christmas Craft Sale this past weekend. The generosity from locals, especially in these trying financial times, is nothing short of extraordinary. We’d never thought to share the amount of funds raised at this event, but it’s time.

The Sonshine Daycare Centre is in desperate need of insulation for their lovely old house that is home to many of our tots. They took a donation at the door to get into the sale, sold a ton of fabulous baking donated by the moms, and had a raffle for a ski weekend at Fairmont. They raised almost $4,200!

Incredible to have Miss Jenn Broadfoot text me

instead of calling me with their results as she was still too emotional to speak. The response was overwhelming. It’s all about the kids. Kudos to the folks of the Columbia Valley. Bill Cropper also raised $300 busking with his trusty guitar for the Christmas Bureau, From Scratch took donations for coffee and raised $65 for the Food Bank, and the Go-Go Sisters of the Stephen Lewis Foundation had a fantastic show selling their wares created by the granny group.

You, the residents of the Columbia Valley, should be very proud of your heart-warming generosity. Thank you from everyone involved and Merry Christmas!

Carolyn Barzilay Fairmont

The Columbia Valley

CANADIAN COMMUNITY NEWSPAPER AWARD 2013

Pioneer

is independently owned and operated, published weekly by Misko Publishing Limited Partnership.

Box 868, #8, 1008 - 8th Ave., Invermere, B.C. V0A 1K0 Phone: 250-341-6299 • Fax: 1.855.377.0312 info@columbiavalleypioneer.com www.columbiavalleypioneer.com

Dean Midyette Publisher/ Sales Manager

Nicole Trigg Editor

Steve Hubrecht Reporter

Eric Elliott Reporter

Amanda Nason Advertising Sales

Emily Rawbon Graphic Design/ Associate Publisher

Amanda Murray

Office Administrator/ Classified Sales

December 9, 2016

The Columbia Valley Pioneer • 7

LETTERS

A little insight on the Laird log home Dear Editor: Re: Historical Lens request in the November 25th edition for more information on the Laird home (Photo C957).

In 2002, my husband Roger Madson and I purchased the Lake Lillian property with the derelict Laird home still standing (previous owner was Peter Kelly). In addition, we found a stone boat used to clear the rocky fields, a homemade rowboat (the Lairds used to take people out on the lake), a few interesting bottles in the dump and caught several pack rats on site.

The house was recently dismantled.

Remnants of sheep fencing were removed from the trees and we continue to im-

WITH

B E S T S A V IN G S E V E*R !

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prove the pasture.

Molly Laird had moved to Burns Lake at the time of purchase and later died there.

In the spring, we enjoy the lilac hedge that surrounded the old homestead.

Yours sincerely, Jenny Richardson Toby Benches

Thanks for Thrift Store support Dear Editor: I wish to acknowledge and thank all the part-time residents, visitors and others who so generously donate fine articles to our thrift shop and to the team of dedicated volunteers who run it so efficiently.

We all know that money raised goes toward funding so many worthwhile endeavours that benefit the whole community.

Merry Christmas and Happy New Year to you all.

Sincerely,

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We want to hear from you Email your letters to info@columbiavalleypioneer.com or visit our website at www. columbiavalleypioneer.com. Mail your letters to Box 868, Invermere, V0A 1K0, or drop them in at #8 1008-8th Avenue. Letters to the editor should be sent only to The Pioneer, and not to other publications. We do not publish open letters or third-party

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letters. Letters for publication should be no longer than 400 words, and must include the writer’s address and phone numbers.

No attachments, please. Letters may be shortened for space requirements. We reserve the right to edit for space, clarity, civility and accuracy. Opinions expressed are those of the writer, not The Pioneer.

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Pioneer Holiday Deadlines Due to the upcoming holidays and office closure, our deadline for booking into the Friday, December 30th Pioneer is Monday, December 19th at noon.

Call 250-341-6299 or email ads@columbiavalleypioneer.com to book your advertising

December 9, 2016

Club voices concern over Barbour

By Steve Hubrecht Pioneer Staff The Lake Windermere District Rod and Gun Club has raised several issues about the proposed Barbour Rock Trail network.

Club president Rick Hoar outlined to The Pioneer that the group is concerned about loss of hunting areas, the presence of endangered species and sensitive ecosystems in the Barbour Rock area, and invasive species; and sees the potential to turn the land around Barbour Rock into an interpretive forest instead.

“If Barbour Rock becomes a designated recreation site, then hunting is forbidden there,” said Mr. Hoar. “While the area is small, there is a cumulative effect that’s happening with recreation sites springing up throughout the valley in recent years.”

Mr. Hoar said that, from what he understands, the cumulative total of hunting areas lost in this manner over the past few decades totals up to almost 15,000 acres (6,000 hectares). “At some point, this cumulative effect has to be addressed,” he said. “A little bit here and a little bit there starts to add up.”

Mr. Hoar said the Columbia Valley Cycling Society had VAST Resources Inc. compile a report on the effect the proposed trails would have on wildlife, and he’s alarmed that the report mentioned badgers as the only endangered species in the vicinity.

“They completely missed two other endangered species that are both in that area — the Lewis woodpecker and the nighthawk,” he said. “The Lewis woodpecker is found in Canada only in southern B.C., so they are really high up in terms of just how endangered they are in the country. If they see you anywhere nearby, they will stay away and not come back to their nest. This is critical because if you have that continual intrusion of people going back and forth, as you might on a bike trail, that will take its toll by possibly preventing the birds from raising their young.”

Mr. Hoar said every year the Rod and Gun Club removes invasive weeds from parts of the Toby Benches, and that “we do find there are a lot of invasive weeds along the cycling trails. On those trails, it would seem the Cycling Society is not going in and doing weed pulls, so we’re concerned they’re not going to do it on the new trails.”

In addition, as referenced in the VAST report, Mr. Hoar mentioned that the Barbour Rock area harbours some of the few remaining intact and sensitive grassland ecosystems in the area. Another concern of the Rod and Gun Club is the effect the trails may have on a potential reintroduction of west slope cutthroat trout in Neve Creek and Lake Lillian. “(Neve Creek-Lake Lillian) is a good candidate for an area to re-introduce them (west slope cutthroat) because it is a closed system, but if that’s the case the new trails would need to cross streams in a certain way and they would need to stay away from spawning areas,” said Mr. Hoar.

Instead of a trail network, the club thinks the Barbour Rock area could make a good interpretive forest site, according to Mr. Hoar.

“There is a government push for interpretive forests, and this area would offer a lot of what would make that good — rare species and natural landscapes,” he said. “(An interpretive forest) is something that is missing in this valley.” Mr. Hoar added that an interpretive forest would be easier to manage in terms of closing it down to avoid disturbance to key nesting sites from May to mid-July, than would a network of cycling and multi-use trails.

“The provincial government wants to turn this piece of property into a recreation site. This piece of property has three wildlife species at risk, and another one (west slope cutthroat trout) that could use it as an introduction area, and the grasslands. If we want to do something with it, then we’re saying we should take an investigative look at if a high activity cycling area is what we want or an interpretive site is what we want,” he said, adding that Imagine Invermere and the Columbia Valley Permanent Resident Attraction and Retention plan both identify people 55 years of age and older as the valley’s fastest growing demographic, while the under 40 demographic is declining.

“We need to think about where we are heading and what services and infrastructure we are building here,” said Mr. Hoar. “The Cycling Society is talking about an epic mountain biking trail. Is that what the 55 and up demographic wants? Or do they want an easy, low-level trail?”

The trail proposal outlines a 40-kilometre network of multi-use trails roughly to the north and west of Lake Lillian. Visit http://columbiavalleycyclingsociety.org/ barbour-rock to review the Barbour Development Plan.

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December 9, 2016

The Columbia Valley Pioneer • 9

Westside Legacy Trail poised for greatness Submitted by Greenways Trail Alliance The Columbia Valley Greenways Trail Alliance has made tremendous progress on the Westside Legacy Trail (WLT) during 2016, and with a planned start date of April 1st, 2017, there’s a lot of reason to celebrate this holiday season.

Together, as a community, you’ve helped to raise nearly $2.1 million (nearing half of the estimated trail cost), and that deserves a special thank you.

With a solid funder base and the current developments made on the trail, the CVGTA is in a prime position for some significant grant opportunities — specifically from BikeBC and the BC Rural Dividend Fund.

Many readers may recall the campaign for the BikeBC $1 million grant during the 2016 cycle, one we were not able to secure without approval from the Agricultural Land Commission. The BikeBC grant is an initiative to encourage healthy living, and safe cycling infrastructure, which fits the mandate of the WLT completely. This year, we will again apply for $1 million in donation-matching funds, of which ALL donations made during the campaign last year are eligible — and, of course, any new donations (OurTrail.org/donate).

The second grant already applied for is the BC Rural Dividend Fund for $500,000, which is granted to small rural communities looking to invigorate

their economies. It has been a foundational pillar of the Westside Legacy Trail’s philosophy to attract new visitors and improve the lives of locals. Many events like the Rotary’s Loop the Lake, and the Branch Out Foundation’s Bike Tour have expressed interest in incorporating the Trail into their annual events. Both events bring an influx of visitors, and this trail will be a cornerstone for many new events. Add to that the emerging trend of active-tourism, and the Valley has a recipe for success.

These key grants are supplemented by donations from individuals, businesses and organizations. It would be a massive boost to our 2017 construction schedule if both grants were approved, setting us squarely and significantly ahead. However, it’s important to note the majority of the success of the Westside Legacy Trail has come from local, second homeowners, and visitor donations. For more information on the Westside Legacy Trail, please visit OurTrail.org.

For readers anxious to visualize what the Westside Legacy Trail will look like, Greenways has prepared overviews of each of the seven segments showing where the trail will be located and where all the amenities will be. Below is the Goldie Creek (first) segment, which we plan on commencing construction of on April 1st, 2017 (or earlier depending upon weather). To review all seven trail segments, please visit OurTrail.org/segments.

READY TO GO — The Goldie Creek segment of the Westide Legacy Trail will be the first of seven segments to be built, starting in April 2017 or possibly sooner. Image submitted

10 • The Columbia Valley Pioneer

December 9, 2016

Medical marijuana dispensary receives business licence

By Steve Hubrecht Pioneer Staff Invermere council approved a temporary business licence at its most recent meeting for a medical marijuana dispensary to set up in Athalmer, likely opening early in the new year.

The business licence granted during the Tuesday, December 6th meeting will last for one year, after which time council can renew, amend or expire it; and it came with a number of conditions. The decision to approve it followed extensive discussion on the matter by council members earlier in the day at their committee of the whole meeting.

“We’re happy about it. We started the process (of trying to set up a medical marijuana dispensary in the Columbia Valley) in February and March, so we’re glad to finally be able to move forward,” dispensary co-owner Megan Karchuk told The Pioneer after the meeting.

Ms. Karchuk and her sister Sara had initially tried to set up in Radium Hot Springs, but were denied a business licence by Radium council.

“In some other communities in B.C., dispensaries have gone ahead without a business licence, but we didn’t want to do that. It was important for us to go through proper channels,” said Ms. Karchuk. “Hopefully we’ll be open in mid-January. If we’re a bit earlier, good, if a bit later, so be it. We know we’ll be subject to a lot of scru-

tiny, so we want everything ship shape and buttoned up before we open.”

The dispensary, which is operating under the name Green Peak Medical Inc., will be located at 305 3rd Avenue, in roughly the same general area as Fubuki Sushi, Fuze and Syndicate Boardshop.

Conditions included in the licence include: all business signs must be approved by council through a valid sign permit; hours of operations must be limited to 10 a.m. to 9 p.m.; and that the dispensary must meet the majority of the Canadian Association of Medical Cannabis Dispensaries’ required operation compliances.

At the start of the committee of the whole discussion, Invermere planner Rory Hromadnik outlined to council that the Karchuk sisters had brought forward an application for a business licence that district staff were obliged to reject, since medical marijuana dispensaries are still technically illegal.

He hastened to add, however, that council members could exercise their discretion and choose to approve the licence under the Community Charter.

Mr. Hromadnik said this is the mechanism that has been used in Kimberley, which has three dispensaries, and Rossland, which has one. He added that Columbia Valley RCMP Sergeant Bob Vatamaniuck has indicated to staff that while he can’t condone a technically illegal activity, he is willing to work with council if they approve the licence and ensure everything is above board

at the dispensary.

All council members voiced support for the dispensary. Invermere mayor Gerry Taft pointed out that the current legal gap in medical marijuana distribution is being filled ad hoc on a municipality by municipality basis, since waiting for a federal or provincial framework — similar to that which exists for liquor distribution — could take years. Councillor Justin Atterbury suggested a temporary one-year licence, offering in essence a probationary period for the Karchuk sisters, which will also help the district build a framework for dealing with dispensaries. Other council members agreed.

Mr. Taft, although supportive of Green Peak Medical Inc., said it’s important for council to be cautious if other would-be dispensaries come forward, adding that from talks he’s had with Kimberley mayor Don McCormick, “there’s a feeling in Kimberley that the first dispensary made sense, but with the second and third, which is right in the Platzl, it’s gone beyond meeting the services and needs of local population and is starting to become something of a destination.”

“I don’t want 10 (dispensaries) here, but would it be a bad thing to be a destination?” asked Mr. Atterbury.

Mr. Taft told The Pioneer after the meeting that there is already interest from another potential medical marijuana dispensary operator and council may hear from this person in January.

December 9, 2016

The Columbia Valley Pioneer 11 Page•11

WHAT’S HAPPENING IN THE COLUMBIA VALLEY

MUSIC • VISUAL ARTS • DINING • BAR SCENE • ENTERTAINMENT • PERFORMANCE ARTS

Stayin’ Alive: in Patagonia

LIGHTS ON

PAGE 14

CHALLENGE MET

PAGE 16

Equipped only with limited gear, his wilderness experience, and a camera, Greg Ovens of Canal Flats was left to survive in the wilderness of Patagonia as one of the cast members in Season 3 of The History’s Channel’s popular survival series, Alone. See page 12 for the story and when to catch the show.

Photo submitted

Cinefest @ Pynelogs Sing Street

“It’s been a long time since I enjoyed a movie this much”

December 13th at 7 pm – Pynelogs at Kinsmen Beach Visit columbiavalleyarts.com for our current events calendar, or call 250-342-4423

Out & About Your weekly guide to what’s happening around the Columbia Valley PAGE 13

12 • The Columbia Valley Pioneer

December 9, 2016

Local starring on survivalist TV show last step in the selection process for a boot camp to determine applicants’ ability to live in the wilderness on their own.

“Once I was at boot camp, I realized that Local backwoods lifer Greg Ovens has made there were people there that really weren’t qualihis way back from Patagonia and is appearing on fied to be there,” he said. He had to wait months television screens Thursday nights in season three to hear that he was chosen to be on the show. “I of the series Alone. wasn’t really surprised after boot camp that they Broadcast on the History Channel, Alone is a saw me, seeing the competition, but I was sursurvivalist-like reality TV show where 10 contesprised with how many applicants there was, that tants are shipped off to Patagonia, located in the we went as far as we were to actually make the southernmost end of South America, by themshow.” selves with one mission: staying alive. With no Mr. Ovens and the other contestants were camera crews, no teams and no gimmicks, conshipped off to Patagonia in May this year to betestants are equipped with limited gear, their wilSURVIVALIST STAR — Canal Flats resident Greg Ovens was selected to survive gin filming. While he was unable to reveal the derness experience and cameras to self-document in Patagonia for the reality TV show Alone.

Image submitted results of the trip, he said he learned a lot traveltheir journey as they fight the unforgiving terrain for survival. The light at the end of the tunnel for the survival of the fittest is a $500,000 ling to a new environment for a brand new experience.

“As far as that show goes, it was a lot harder than I thought it was going to be because cash prize.

Mr. Ovens, who lives in Canal Flats, said he first heard of the show from his daughter the filming is very difficult because you can’t spend the full time just surviving, you have to Jeannet who watched season one and suggested to him that he apply to become a part of film it, right,” he said. “It was tougher than I thought in the sense that if you had a camera the show. Living in the wild most of his life, Mr. Ovens said he thought the show would be crew there, you could have just concentrated on surviving, but you have to do all the filming so it’s a lot tougher than people think.” right within his abilities.

Despite the difficulty, Mr. Ovens said the show was an experience he won’t soon forget.

“I’ve spent my whole life in the bush from starting fires, eating wild plants — like, I’m “It was the greatest experience of my life, too, because I mean for someone from this good at it,” he said.

From there, his daughter did all the legwork to get everything in order, sending emails area to get on the show could never happen again,” he said.

The first episode aired on the History Channel at 7 p.m. MST on Thursday (Decemto the producers in New York and filling out a considerable amount of paperwork. With the process taking up the bulk of an entire year, Mr. Ovens was invited to New York as the ber 8th) evening, and will continue each Thursday for 12 more episodes.

By Eric Elliott Pioneer Staff

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December 9, 2016

The Columbia Valley Pioneer • 13

MUSIC • VISUAL ARTS • DINING • BAR SCENE • ENTERTAINMENT • PERFORMANCE ARTS

Out & About Please call 250-341-6299 or e-mail us at info@columbiavalleypioneer.com to enter your event in our FREE listings.

Submissions must be received by the Monday prior to publication. We may only run an entry for two weeks prior to the event. Please limit your submission to 30 words. Priority is given to one-off events, so weekly events may only run occasionally.

Library with stories, songs, and crafts. Every Saturday except December 24th.

• 4 p.m.: Panorama Mountain Freeride Club is holding its AGM at Panorama Mountain Village. Call Karen at 250-270-0355 for more information.

• 4 p.m.: The Columbia Valley Stewardship Society hosts its Annual General Meeting at the Columbia Ridge Community Hall. Call 250-688-0103 or email columbialakess@shaw.ca for more information. Holiday Season Refreshments will be provided.

• 6:30 p.m.: Meat Draw and 50/50 at Branch 71 Legion in Invermere. Every Saturday.

LA CABINA RISTORANTE

Friday, December 9th • 9 a.m. - 5 p.m.: Alice Hale’s Christmas Pottery Sale at 2421 Westside Road. Also December 10th.

• 2:30 - 4:30 p.m.: LEGO Club at Invermere Public Library. All ages welcome (under 8 accompanied by an adult please). Weekly building challenges will be awaiting you! Activity is free. Also on Friday December 16th.

• 11 a.m. - 1 p.m.: The Summit Youth Centre will be taking donations at Valley Foods. All programs and activities at the Youth Centre are free of cost to youth aged 12 to 18. Thank you for your support.

• 4 - 8 p.m.: Friday Night Shopping at Fairmont Hot Springs with a dozen participating merchants offering samples and specials. Pick up your passport at the Lion’s Den for a chance to win 250 Fairmont Dollars.

• 6 p.m.: Bingo at Shuswap Band Hall every Friday.

Doors open at 6 p.m., Bingo starts at 7 p.m.

• 6:30 p.m.: Hospice Society of the Columbia Valley’s 3rd Annual Tree of Lights evening of commemoration and remembrance will be held in Edgewater, Radium Hot Springs, Invermere, Fairmont Hot Springs and Canal Flats. Lights are $10 each. Please visit www. hospicesocietycv.com for more information.

Saturday, December 10th • 10 a.m.: Lego for all ages at the Radium Public Library every Saturday.

• 10 a.m. - 12 p.m.: Photos with Santa at Fairmont Hot Springs Resort. Also on December 17th.

• 11 a.m.: Preschool Story Time at the Invermere Public

• 11 a.m.: Preschool Story Time at the Invermere Public Wednesday Homemade Lasagna DAILY Library withSPECIALS stories, songs, and crafts.

Every Saturday.

Soup or salad to start $17 Sunday Curry Night Thursday Famous Wings 10 –$9, 20 – $15. Best in the Valley

Monday

Large Pizza and a Pint for $22

Friday Fish night

Tuesday

Saturday New York Steak Soup or Greek Salad and fries. $20

2 for 1 Pizza

Best Western Prestige Inn Radium Hot Springs tel: 250-347-2340 • fax: 250-347-2342

Sunday, December 11th • 12 - 4 p.m.: Tourism Radium hosts the Radium Holiday Market at the Best Western Plus Prestige Inn. Admission with donation to the Columbia Valley Food Bank.

• 5:30 p.m.: Rotary Club of Invermere invites Seniors to a Christmas Dinner at Black Forest Restaurant. To register call 250-342-0186.

Tuesday, December 13th • 11 a.m. - 1 p.m.: The Summit Youth Centre will be taking donations at Sobeys. All programs and activities at the Youth Centre are free of cost to youth aged 12 to 18.

Thank you for your support.

• 11:30 a.m.: 18th Annual Gentlemen’s Lunch at Eagle Ranch, cocktails 11:30 a.m., lunch at 12:30 p.m. Tickets $38, call 250-342-0562 by Sunday afternoon to book.

• 6:30 p.m.: Cinefest at Pynelogs Independent Film Series presents ‘Sing Street’’. Tickets at the door. Film at 7 p.m. Cash bar and light refreshments. Call 250-3424423 for details.

Wednesday, December 14th • 11:45 a.m.: The Rotary Club of Invermere meets every Wednesday at the Curling Centre.

• 6:30 p.m.: Head to the Invermere Public Library to listen to Jane Byers author of Steeling Effects, and Acquired Community, and Leesa Dean author of Waiting for the Cyclone read from their works. Event is free.

Thursday, December 15th • 10:30 a.m.: Preschool Story Time at the Invermere Library with stories, songs, and crafts. Every Thursday.

• 4:30 - 6 p.m.: Summit Youth Centre Chef-It-Up. Every Thursday. Call 250-342-3033 for more info.

• 5 - 6 p.m.: Wine tasting in the Fairmont Hot Springs Resort lobby every Thursday. Enjoy four B.C. wines with the in-house Sommelier. $15 per person or $25 for two.

• 6:30 p.m.: Texas Hold Em’ Tournament at the Invermere Legion every Thursday. $35 buy in.

Friday, December 16th • 2:30 - 4:30 p.m.: LEGO Club at Invermere Public Library. All ages welcome (under 8 accompanied by an adult please). Weekly building challenges will be awaiting you! Activity is free.

Invermere Library Hours • Tuesday to Saturday: 10 a.m. - 5 p.m.

• Wednesday: 10 a.m. - 8 p.m.

• Story Time: Thurs. 10:30 a.m. Sat. 11 a.m.

Radium Hot Springs Library Hours • Tuesday: 6 - 8 p.m.

• Wednesday and Thursday: 1 - 4 p.m.

• Saturday: 10 a.m. - 1 p.m.

• Closed December 18th until January 3rd.

Windermere Valley Museum Hours • Tuesday: 10 a.m. - 4 p.m.

Invermere Thrift Store Hours • Thursday - Saturday: 10 a.m. – 4 p.m.

• Closed December 18th to January 11th.

• No donations accepted Dec. 23rd to January 2nd.

Radium Thrift Store Hours • Thursday: 10 a.m. - 4 p.m.

• Friday and Saturday: 12 - 4 p.m

The 2017 MaxWell calendars are in for pickup!

1214 -7th Ave., Invermere, B.C. Box 2280, Invermere V0A 1K0

Ph: 250-341-6044 Fax: 250-341-6046

www.maxwellrealtyinvermere.ca

DANIEL ZURGILGEN 250-342-1612

SCOTT WALLACE 250-342-5309

BERNIE RAVEN 250-342-7415

GLENN POMEROY 250-270-0666

GEOFF HILL 250-341-7600

CHRIS RAVEN 250-409-9323

BRYAN HOOKENSON 250-409-6266

DORAN CAIN 250-342-1629

14 • The Columbia Valley Pioneer The Columbia Lake Stewardship Society

Annual General Meeting Saturday, December 10th, 4 pm Columbia Ridge Community Hall.

Call 250-688-0103 or email columbialakess@shaw.ca for more information.

Holiday refreshments provided.

FREE EDGEWATER SHUTTLE SERVICE

December 9, 2016

Village Arts holding daily hand-crafted gift giveaway Submitted by Carolyn Barzilay Village Arts Co-op is the oldest standing gift shop in the valley. In fact 32 years ago, we were the only gift store in town. There is a lot of history in this little gem of a shop. Our product is totally hand-crafted by Canadian artisans, with the largest focus on local talent.

We, the artisans and crafty folk of the non-profit Village Arts Society, have a special treat in store for our supporters who have kept us creating for all these years.

We are giving back to the community with a “24

Days of Christmas Giveaway”. At the end of each day, we are having a draw. The lucky customer will choose a surprise bag of originally hand-crafted gifts created by our artists.

The Village Arts appreciates the patronage of our customers and are grateful to those who shop locally. We wish a very Merry Christmas to all!

The Village Arts is located at 1045A 7th Avenue in downtown Invermere next to Gerry’s Gelati, and can be reached by phone at 250-342-6151, or visit their website at www.villagearts.ca.

Light up a light for Youth Centre Submitted by Tara Woods Summit Youth Centre

Hourly pick-ups at Pip’s Store starting at 6pm, and drop off right at your door!

Call the Pub at 250-347-6400 for confirmation Invite your friends!

REMINDER GIFT CARD DISTRIBUTION DATE: December 14th, 1 - 7 p.m. at the Invermere Community Hall

GIFT PACKAGES:

Must be delivered to the Invermere Community Hall, December 14th, 8 a.m. - noon.

The Lights On For Youth campaign has the Summit Youth Centre joining up with the residents of the Columbia Valley to keep the light shining bright for youth. For every $5 raised for the Youth Centre, a light will be turned on their holiday tree outside of Selkirk Cellulars & Office Supplies. The campaign started with a great kick-off at Light Up Invermere, and will run until Christmas Eve. With weekly programming, fun activities, great resources, and a dedicated group of staff and volunteers, the Summit Youth Centre provides a safe, fun space for youth ages 12 to 18 across the Columbia Valley. Programs range from a weekly cooking class, music lessons, digital arts and video games, and an experiential education program, currently taught once a week at the Open Doors School. All programming and activities

A Book Under Every Tree Every year, the Columbia Basin Alliance for Literacy collects new and gently used books to place in Christmas hampers. Books for children, youth and adult readers are welcome!

We will gratefully receive donations of books in excellent, gift-giving condition.

ANGEL TREE GIFTS:

must be returned to Red, Apple, Home Hardware, Fields, or Dairy Queen by December 10th.

Want to sponsor an individual or family or make a donation?

Connect with the Christmas Bureau at cvcb@shaw.ca or call Angie at 250-342-2611.

FIND US ON FACEBOOK

Collection bins are located at Valley Foods and Sobeys Invermere until December 12, 2016.

Learning together

To learn more contact Katie Andruschuk kandruschuk@cbal.org 250-409-4251 www.cbal.org

are free-of-cost to youth and their families.

Donation jars can be found around Invermere at the following locations: • Selkirk Cellulars & Office Supplies • River Gems • Home Hardware • Inside Edge • Mystique • AG Valley Foods • Hopkins Harvest • The Trading Post • Smaller Foot Prints • Main Street Fun & Games A fundraising table will also be set up at AG Valley Foods on Friday, December 9th from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m., and at Sobeys on Tuesday, December 13th from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. For more info on the fundraiser and Summit, contact Program Co-ordinator Tara Woods at 250-342-3033 or summit.centre@gmail.com

It’s a great reason …to call the valley home

Christmas Star Winner for December 1st

Christa Stimming

$500 shopping spree redeemable at any participating business.

For more information on this contest, please see our ad on page 10 of this week’s Columbia Valley Pioneer or visit www.cvchamber.ca/christmas-star

December 9, 2016

The Columbia Valley Pioneer • 15

Special Christmas gifts All about our

CENTRE Would you like to give truly unique gifts this Christmas? Consider sponsoring Theatre Seats in the new Columbia Valley Centre in the names of your loved ones.

The opportunity to be part of a project of this kind is not likely to happen again for many years.

The Centre is an investment in the future of our community — “The Place Where Our Community Gathers”. By honouring your loved ones with a donation to the centre, they will be part of this exciting project. When you and your family attend performances, special events, and movies in the Centre, you will have the satisfaction of knowing you helped make it possible.

Each sponsored seat features a metal plaque with the name of the person you wish to honour. A plaque in the centre

lists sponsors and where to find their seats. Sponsors can request particular seats and requests will be accommodated whenever possible.

Certificates are available to enclose in gift cards.

The cost to sponsor a seat is $1,000. All sponsors receive a charitable tax receipt, and the benefit of tax deductions.* By sponsoring a seat prior to March 1st, 2017, you help ensure the 228 seats will be installed prior to the centre’s September 2017 opening. Please consider sponsoring a Theatre Seat in the Columbia Valley Centre — a gift your loved ones can appreciate for years to come. Long after a toy is broken or a sweater is worn out, Theatre Seats will allow visitors to enjoy cultural events in the Columbia Valley Centre. *Note: Depending on province of residence at December 31st, 2016, the combined federal and provincial tax deduction resulting from a $1,000 donation ranges from approximately $390 to $450.

For more information and to donate, visit www.columbiavalleycentre.ca.

Fairmont Hot Springs’ very own!

Happy Holidays from all the From Scratch Elves!

Take Me Home Christmas Dinner

That perfect gift is waiting for you!

Available for pick-up Dec 22, 23 or 24 (until 3pm) We’re closed Christmas and Boxing Day. Don’t worry, we include re-heating instructions for you!

Call to order: 250.345.0008

A Selection of Prepared Meals from our “Just as good as going out!” section where you take a night off from cooking!

Our elves are on-site to help you get through your list: A Gift Certificate to spend as they please!

A Personal Cooking Lesson!

A Foodie Gift Basket We have some already made up or make your own!

Lots of stocking stuffers: Amazing chocolate, hot sauces, spices, teas, coffees & more!

Please check our website for holiday hours

Unit 8, 5019 Fairmont Resort Road | 250.345.0008 | www.fromscratchfood.com

Follow us on…

Pioneer Newspaper @PioneerNewsTip

Christmas Gifts GOLF

> Book of 10 Rounds for only $499 Golf Riverside or Mountainside any day, any time and no expiry dates!

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> TrackMan Indoor Lessons for only $40 45 minute lesson for $40. Make sure your swing is ready for the golf season.

FESTIVALS > Wine Festival Tickets The gift any wine lover would wish for—tickets to our 16th Annual Wine Festival on November 4th. Tickets are only $59* each.

> Beer Festival Tickets The perfect gift for beer lovers! Our 6th Annual Beer Festival is on June 17th, tickets are $49 each*.

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* Special pricing only available until December 31, 2016

3 60 MINUTE MASSAGES FOR $219*

PHOTOS with

SANTA

Come have your photo taken at & 17 from Santa’s Cabin on December 10 get to tell 10:00am-12:00pm and don’t for ristmas!

Ch him what you want for

16 • The Columbia Valley Pioneer

December 9, 2016

Don’t fall victim to fear

DISTRICT OF INVERMERE

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

M

REQUEST FOR PROPOSAL DOWNTOWN BUSINESS NEEDS ASSESSMENT The District of Invermere is seeking a firm or individual with a strong track record in community economic development that can work with the Council, the management team, and community stakeholders to identify business sector needs within the community to assist in expanding and diversifying the business sector to offer new development and business opportunities.

The request for proposal submission must include the requirements outlined in the Request for Proposal, which can be found on the Districts website. www.invermere.net Documents will be available through BC Bid. Civicinfo and on the District Website. Proposals must be presented or delivered in sealed packages, clearly marked “Request for Proposals: Downtown Business Needs Assessment”.

Completed proposals must be received no later than Wednesday January 4, 2017 at 2 p.m., MT. Completed proposals must be received at: District of Invermere PO Box 339 914 8th Avenue Invermere, BC V0A 1K0 All inquiries related to this Request for Proposal shall be directed to: Chris Prosser, Chief Administrative Officer District of Invermere Phone: 250-342-9281 ext 1225 e-mail: cao@invermere.net There will be no public opening. Faxed submissions are not accepted and will be rejected.

The District of Invermere reserves the right to accept or reject all or any proposals and to waive any informality, incompleteness or error in any proposals.

By Tammy Stehr Pioneer Columnist

Since I have been feeling “the feeling” myself — and I have been picking up the collective consciousness feeling it, too — I wanted to talk about it.

Fear can be big and paralyzing or a tiny nagging voice that prevents us from doing anything new or outside the assumed safe zone. Others find fear makes them do things they would not do in its absence.

Fear is a multifaceted emotion, often deeply rooted in our psyche.

Even if we are not normally fearful and we have faith that everything will be fine, we may still experience the feeling in a big way. Most often our fears, once closely examined, are much larger in our imagination than they may actually be.

This is like any part of life; it

is dependant on our perception of it. We may essentially make it more fearsome to ourselves by turning it over and over in our mind, without some way to help us stop the downward spiral of thought. Because of this, fear has been used as a tool to control the masses for ages.

Those who are looking for control may try to raise fears that are not necessarily real. Once suggested, though, they often become embellished in our minds. This is the desired effect because now we, as a group, are much more compliant in exchange for protection from that very fearful thing suggested.

We are all susceptible to becoming the pliable, predictable sheep that follow along with the prescribed procedure because we want to avoid that fear. We may alienate sheep who have the ability to see through this ruse, instead of considering a more grounded point of view.

To live in fear or in faith is our choice to make, so long as we understand what is happening. Tak-

Phone: (250) 341-6299 Fax: 1-855-377-0312 info@columbiavalleypioneer.com N E W S PA P E R

www.columbiavalleypioneer.com

ing on fears projected by others is not healthy for anyone nor does it build bonds between community members. Often it is the catalyst that causes disagreements, violence and even war.

So what is right action? How do we mitigate fear or do you just cease and desist any further action?

Perhaps now is the time to check in with your intuition or your gut, and see how you are feeling. If it does not feel good, it might be wise to turn your attention away from the fear and toward something that does feel good.

Let me be clear; I am not saying that becoming an ostrich is the way to go. I am saying that examining the fear with an open mind, in a safe place, may allow us the ability to see it for what it is — false evidence appearing real.

Tammy does spiritual counselling and healing through Reiki, transformational and Alchemic techniques.

She is working towards a Master’s Degree in Metaphysical Sciences. Contact her at tammystehr@gmail.com.

True Key Hotels & Resorts answers The Kanata Inn’s challenge Submitted by Katie Wallace True Key Hotels & Resorts Ltd.

r!

h e Pioneer ca T n tak e yo ur d oll With 6,400 copies ar far in circulation each week, th e your message is resonating with residents and visitors alike.

etaphysical usings

True Key Hotels & Resorts has answered and exceeded the challenge issued by The Kanata Inn to all other hospitality businesses to meet or beat their donation of 20, 15-pound turkeys to the Christmas Bureau of the Columbia Valley, with a donation of 25, 15-pound turkeys.

True Key is excited to be part of this challenge and invites other hospitality and accommodation businesses to meet or beat their donation.

The Christmas Bureau of the Columbia Valley helps approximately 250 families in the area at this time of year. They are a notfor-profit organization that has been helping to make Christmas a little bit brighter and cheerier for families in the valley since 1992.

helping your business succeed! • join today • info@cvchamber.ca

“ We benefit greatly from the Chamber`s promotion of our company to walk-in tourists and their marketing efforts locally & regionally.” - Penny Powers, Columbia River Kayak & Canoe

December 9, 2016

The Columbia Valley Pioneer • 17

Aviva awards Centre $5,000

By Sarah Kloos Special to The Pioneer

Aviva Canada has just announced the 13 grand prize winners of the Aviva Community Fund competition who will share $1,000,000 in funding from the Aviva Community Fund. Unfortunately, the Projector and Screen Project for the Columbia Valley Centre project was not a grand prize winner; however, as a finalist it will receive $5,000 to go towards the project.

“It’s been another amazing year with the Aviva Community Fund. We’re continually inspired by the commitment and engagement in communities across Canada,

demonstrated by this year’s record-breaking submissions and votes,” said Debora Hendrickson with Aviva Canada.

Back in October, The Pioneer published an All About The Centre column encouraging locals to go online and vote for the Projector and Screen Project on the Aviva website. “The Projector and Screen Project must receive at least 15,000 website votes to move through the Voting Round and onto the next funding step,” stated the column.

In November, The Pioneer reported that the project had secured enough votes — 35,000 more than doubling the minimum needed — to move on to the final round, where a panel reviewed and evaluated all 30 finalists to determine the Grand Prize Winners.

N E W S PA P E R

Pioneer Holiday Deadlines

Library looks to book clubs for help

By James Rose Special to The Pioneer The Invermere Public Library is set to find a new home in the currently being built Columbia Valley Centre, but the organization is in need of funds to furnish the new location.

From shelving to furnishing the children’s programs, to a new information desk and front desk, the list is a large and expensive one.

And in looking for creative ways to raise the nec-

Copper Point Christmas Countdown

essary funds, the Friends of the Invermere Public Library are asking valley Book Clubs for their support.

“We recognized that the Invermere Public Library needs financial support because even just a book shelf can cost as much as $1,000,” said Friends of the Invermere Public Library vice president Susan Webster.

“The library makes running a book club much easier because they are able to source many copies of the same book from libraries all over British Columbia using the inter-library loan program.”

Continued on page 21 . . .

Sunday

Monday

Tuesday

28

29

4

5

Idea 6 TakeHoliday 7 Complimentary your parents Family Swim

$15 Meazer’s (Meal Caesar)

11 $15

Meazer’s (Meal Caesar) Outdoor Activities 2 pm – 5 pm

12

12 “drinks” of Christmas cocktail special Did you know…

Our Tomato Soup is Gluten & Dairy Free?

19

12 “drinks” of Christmas cocktail special Christmas Day Brunch

Reservations recommended Santa Breakfast Visits

4-course Christmas Dinner $40. Reserve now!

Holiday Idea Invite your friends for a snowball fight.

12 “drinks” of Christmas cocktail special

$15 Meazer’s (Meal Caesar)

25

Holiday Idea Go Skating on our Lake Windermere White Way trail

26 African

Specialty Coffee Feature

Amaretto, Triple sec Fresh Brewed Starbucks Coffee Whip cream

760 Cooper Road 1-250-341-4000 copperpointresort.com

$7.50

30

for a drive and admire Christmas lights and décor

Complimentary Family Swim 12 pm – 8 pm 30% off Swimwear 12 “drinks” of Christmas cocktail special

13

20

12 “drinks” of Christmas cocktail special

Introducing Elements New Wine Menu Did you know…

Our #1 Selling Dinner Entrée is Beef & Prawns?

27 Russian

Specialty Coffee Feature

Tia Maria, Frangelico,vodka Fresh Brewed Starbucks Coffee Whip cream

$7.50

Open for Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

7 DAYS A WEEK

Call 250-341-6299 or email ads@columbiavalleypioneer.com to book your advertising

Wednesday

27

18

Due to the upcoming holidays and office closure, our deadline for booking into the Friday, December 30th Pioneer is Monday, December 19th at noon.

Thursday

1

20% Discount Lazy One Slippers

8

12 pm – 8 pm

30% off Swimwear

14

Holiday Idea Build a snowman with your family

15

Enter our Take a selfie with our Bear Contest

12 “drinks” of Christmas cocktail special

12 “drinks” of Christmas cocktail special

Friday

Saturday

50% discount on Golf Clothing in our Copper Mine

2

3

20% 9 discount on

20% 10 discount on

Build-your-Bear in our Copper Mine Retail Store

Scarves in our Copper Mine 4th Annual Small

Outdoor Activities 2 pm – 5 pm

16 Business Big Party 17 Event – call for tickets

12 “drinks” of Christmas cocktail special

12 “drinks” of Christmas cocktail special

Free Movie Night 12 “drinks” of Christmas cocktail special Did you know…

Our Salmon Entrée is Wild Pacific Salmon?

Christmas 12 “drinks” of 22 Christmas 23 Christmas cocktail 24 4-course Dinner $40 cocktail

28 Jamaican

29 Hawaiian

$7.50

$7.50

21

Specialty Coffee Feature

Dark rum, Brandy Fresh Brewed Starbucks Coffee Whip cream

12 “drinks” of

special Did you know…

All deserts are made in house?

20% Locals Discount in Elements *applies to Regular Menu Only

Specialty Coffee Feature

Macadamia nut liqueur Fresh Brewed Starbucks Coffee Whip cream

special Did you know…

Our Hollandaise Sauce is made from scratch daily?

30 Italian

Specialty Coffee Feature

Grand Marnier, Kahlua Fresh Brewed Starbucks Coffee Whip cream

$7.50

Reserve now!

12 “drinks” of Christmas cocktail special 4-course NYE 31 Dinner & Dance $75 Dance only $45 January 1st: New Years Day Brunch Mimosa & Caesar Specials

Entries for the Bear Selfie Contest can be sent to #copperpointbear

SHUTTLE SERVICE

Contest closes January 9th

Call 250-341-4000

18 • The Columbia Valley Pioneer

December 9, 2016

Holiday Recycle Guide

Batteries

Reduce, Reuse, Recycle - it all adds up!

Wrapping Paper All paper based wrapping paper can be recycled in the yellow bins or Invermere’s blue bag program.

Foil based papers cannot be recycled and should be thrown in the garbage if they can’t be saved and reused.

Please consider paper based paper when purchasing gift wrap.

Ribbons & Bows

Cardboard Boxes

These cannot be recycled.

They can be reused or put in the garbage.

All cardboard and boxboard (like cracker and cereal boxes) are recyclable. Please flatten them to conserve space in the bin or blue bag.

Tin Cans All tin food and beverage cans can be recycled.

They must be rinsed out. Labels can be left on if they are difficult to remove.

Aluminum Pie Plates & Roasters

Glass

Styrofoam

Electronics

These cannot be recycled in the Columbia Valley.

The only recycling depot for tin roasters, foil etc. is the Cranbrook Bottle Depot.

Even though Styrofoam is marked with a #6, it is NOT recyclable in our program. The only place in the East Kootenay that Styrofoam can be recycled is the Cranbrook Bottle Depot.

Plastics All plastics with the triangular recycling symbol and number between 1 and 6 (except Styrofoam) can be recycled in the yellow bins or Invermere’s blue bag program.

They must be clean and every piece of plastic must be numbered.

Lids often are a different type of plastic, and if there is no number on the item, it goes in the garbage if it can’t be reused.

Plastics Not Accepted: #7 plastics, dirty plastics, plastics with no number.

They go in the garbage if they can’t be reused.

Glass goes in the yellow bins marked GLASS ONLY. The ONLY glass accepted for recycling is container glass. That means jam jars, salsa jars, wine bottles, olive oil bottles, etc.

NO other glass (including dishes or drinking glasses) is accepted. If in doubt, please leave it out.

Glass bins are located at the Columbia Valley Landfill, Edgewater Post Office, Fairmont Transfer Station, Invermere Industrial Park, Invemere Bottle Depot, and Radium Liquor Store

The electronics & small appliance recycling depot for the this area is: Invermere Bottle Depot 133 Industrial Rd. #2 Phone: 250-342-7272 Hours: Tues-Fri 9:00am-4:00pm Sat 10:00am-4:00pm They accept: • Televisions • Fax • MP3 players • Computers, Machines • Tablets peripherals • DVD/VHS • Earphones (keyboard, players • Microphones mouse) • Scanners • Telephones • Monitors • Stereos • Speakers

Batteries

One of the items people seem to stock up on at this time of year is batteries. Both alkaline and rechargeable batteries are recyclable.

The following locations in Invermere accept batteries: Home Hardware, Rona - Northstar Hardware, Selkirk Cellular & Office Supplies, and The Source at the Tamarack Mall

For more information, contact the RDEK at 1-888-478-7335

December 9, 2016

The Columbia Valley Pioneer • 19

Essential oils business finds a home in valley

By James Rose Special to The Pioneer Fernie-based essential oil company Healing Hollow is pleased to announce the official opening of its Invermere retail location on December 15th. The store, to be located within the Parkside Place development across from Pothole Park, is the latest milestone for the company founded

by Michelle Cubin in 2008.

Healing Hollow products, however, aren’t new to the valley. For the last six years, the oils have been exclusively available at Rainbow Donkey Kids Clothing, which is also situated in the Parkside Place development.

Since first stocking the essential oils, Rainbow Donkey owner Beth Neale said people now come to her store just to find Healing Hollow oils. “Michelle does an amazing job with her blends and really targets the things that people need help with,� said Ms. Neale.

The Healing Hollow blends are handmade in small batches in the Kootenay with 80 per cent of the company’s inventory certified organic and wild harvested (meaning the oils are produced using material grown in their own environment or are unsprayed). “Not all essential oils are the same and sometimes organic oils have less therapeutic qualities than the unsprayed or wild harvested oils so we choose accordingly, always purchasing oils from where they grow best,� said

Healing Hollow owner Michelle Cubin Ms. Cubin. “We blend everything at each retail location in 500 to 1000 millilitre batches and then dilute accordingly,� she explained. “As for our labels, we make them in-house but will soon be going to a professional label due to the demand. We have over 50 different blends for both diffusing and applying. We started buying 30 bottles at a time and have just placed an order for 40,000.�

Healing Hollow has experienced explosive growth over the past few years. The company’s growth comes as an increasing number of people look for alternative ways to treat certain maladies, be it the inability to sleep well at night, reactions to bug bites, or the discomfort children experience when they first start teething.

“Our market is literally everyone. Every day I am surprised with who walks through the door or calls. From little girls and boys to a truck driver with a long beard who wants his truck to smell nice. It’s truly amazing. Our biggest clientele are those new to oils, though, who are amazed,� commented Ms. Cubin.

As to how Ms. Cubin found her entrepreneurial calling: “I had been injured in several car accidents, experienced childhood trauma, and the sudden passing of my sister and father, when I started playing around with making my own oils,� she said. “I was half looking for an alternative to medications that weren’t working and half as a meditative therapy. At the time, I was teaching rehab Pilates and friends and customers liked what I blended so I kept going.�

Going forward, Ms. Cubin’s plan for her business is to just keep following her intuition to see where it takes her. “I love opening and merchandising. I love antiques and bring that into each shop. I think I’ll keep branching out. We strive to give our customers the best knowledge and help so we are becoming quite strict on who carries the products.�

As for the new Invermere location, Ms. Cubin couldn’t be more excited. “I love the valley and the people. I am so grateful for these little mountain towns and I think if I open more, it’ll always be in the quaintness of small towns.�

The store is located at 915 7th Avenue.

Regional District of East Kootenay Are you a book lover? Do you enjoy volunteering?

Do you believe in public libraries?

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

The Regional District of East Kootenay (RDEK) is looking for two people to represent the RDEK as Trustees on the Radium Hot Springs Public Library Board as follows: • one person to represent Electoral Area G; and • one person to represent Electoral Areas F and G, District of Invermere, and Village of Canal Flats To be considered for a position, an applicant must be a resident or elector of the above area(s) and cannot be employees or elected officials of the RDEK, District of Invermere, Village of Canal Flats or the Library Board.

These volunteer positions are for a two year term expiring January 31, 2019.

If you are interested, please submit a letter of application and brief resume including reasons for your interest and related experience to Shannon Moskal, Corporate Officer, at the RDEK. ,

By hand at the RDEK Office - 19-24th Avenue South, Cranbrook Via email in PDF format to smoskal@rdek.bc.ca By mail to Shannon Moskal, RDEK, 19-24th Avenue South, Cranbrook BC V1C 3H8

For information on the Library and the services it provides, please visit: http://radium.bc.libraries.coop/ Applications must be received by 4:30 pm on Wednesday, December 21, 2016.

19 - 24th Avenue South, Cranbrook BC V1C 3H8 Phone: 250-489-2791 Toll Free: 1-888-478-7335 Email: info@rdek.bc.ca Website: www.rdek.bc.ca

20 • The Columbia Valley Pioneer

December 9, 2016

Possibility of moving Intensive French examined

By Steve Hubrecht Pioneer Staff

Rocky Mountain School District No. 6 Windermere Zone school board trustees have been holding meetings through the fall with parents of students on the future of the elementary Intensive French program.

At a meeting at Windermere Elementary School last week, parents of students at the Windermere school (where the Intensive French program is currently located) expressed their concern — and at times, outright fury — at the possibility of the program moving to J. Alfred Laird Elementary School. About 30 parents attended the Thursday, December 1st meeting, levelling a veritable firing line of pointed questions or comments at the school district trustees Amber Byklum, Denny Neider and Rosemary Oaks, and superintendent Paul Carriere. Ms. Byklum began the meeting by outlining how when the Intensive French program began in the Windermere zone in 2008 at Windermere Elementary, there was a stipulation that if the program attracted more than the cap of 30 students, there would be a lottery process to decide who gets in; and that if there were fewer than 25 students in the program, it would need to be reassessed by the board and the superintendent.

“We’ve only met the cap (of 30) once in the program’s lifetime, and we’ve been below 25 for the last four years,” said Ms. Byklum, adding that, given the natural attrition that occurs in special programs such as Intensive French, when

these smaller cohorts graduate from elementary school and move on to the David Thompson Secondary School (DTSS) Intensive French program, they are too small to stand alone as a class and there is no option but to join them up with core French students. “So it’s not only affecting our Intensive French, it’s affecting our core French students,” she said, adding the core French students can often feel intimidated being in a class with Intensive French students.

The board has been concerned about the low numbers for a few years, said Ms. Byklum, adding one option that has been discussed is moving the program to J. Alfred Laird Elementary in Invermere, which has higher student enrolment than Windermere, and which, she said, board members feel might result in more students in Intensive French.

“I would contend that the low enrolment is not endemic to Windermere Elementary. It is a marketing problem that could be solved with effort. It’s a matter of parents and students at other schools hearing about the program.

If we market it well, the program will be successful,” said parent Cam Gillies, pointing out that many parents at other schools are unaware of the program — which starts in Grade 6 — until students bring home an information package in Grade 5. “It also raises the question of how much do the rich get richer? Laird already has an enhanced music program and a hockey program. Is it fair to concentrate all the enhanced programs in one school? I don’t think so.”

Mr. Gillies added that in his opinion the French program is part of the heart of Windermere Elementary.

“I think moving the Intensive French program would have a cascading effort on enrolment at Windermere Elementary, and not just on Grade 6,” he said.

Several parents referenced a survey sent out to Columbia Valley parents of Kindergarten to Grade 5 students late last spring, asking if they supported the Intensive French program and if so, what their preferred location was.

Mr. Carriere said that, of the 481 surveys sent out, the board got back 113 and, of the responses, 55 per cent favoured keeping Intensive French in Windermere, with 45 per cent favouring moving it to Laird.

Speaking after the meeting, he clarified to The Pioneer that the survey was intended simply to help inform the board, not determine where the program should be located.

He added that Windermere parents responded to the survey at a higher rate than parents from other schools.

At the meeting, several parents expressed frustration at having chosen to send their kids to Windermere Elementary — or, in one case, to buy a house and live in Windermere — based on the Intensive French program being there, only to possibly see that change.

“In spring 2015, when we were deciding where to send our child, we were given the impression that if you want French, you go to Windermere Elementary. Now I’m hearing the numbers have been an issue for years. If the program moves next year, my child may fall through a big crack of poor management, not because I failed as a Continued on page 30 . . .

Restaurant Open Soon!

Cooks and Waiting Staff

The Skookum Inn wants you!

Can you make ordinary into extraordinary?

Can you turn humdrum into WOW?

We are looking for staff that have a passion for cooking as well as welcoming people to your place. You aren’t just a body filling a space, you’re a person with pride in your ability! Our menu will consist of down-home goodness and that is where we expect you to excel! If you enjoy people and good food, and are looking for long-term employment please drop off a resume.

Those invited to work will be given an opportunity to take over and become self-employed after approximately one year.

HWY 93/95, WINDERMERE, BC • 250-342-6293 • SKOOKUMINN@SHAW.CA.

December 9, 2016

The Columbia Valley Pioneer • 21

HISTORICAL BUILDING REVIVED — Left, the Digney and Co team (left to right:Val Sinclair, Taylore Beltan, Mark Digney, Terry Taft) in front of their newly renovated business location (photo by Dean Midyette); right, open house guests examine the historical photographs hanging in the front hall.

Photo by Eric Elliott

What would you like for Christmas, dear?

Surprise me!!

Surprise me she said! I’m

DOOMED!

Maybe I can help.

The Ambiente Christmas wish list.

Perfect!

New digs for Digney

By Eric Elliott Pioneer Staff Digney & Co Accounting held their open house on Friday December 2nd, welcoming 30 guests to their newly renovated office space in Athalmer, located on Laurier Street across from the Petro Canada.

Digney & Co completed a significant amount of work on the building before opening it for use. Throughout the building’s history, it has been used as a post office, a laundromat, and was also owned by . . . ‘Library’ from page 17

oh oh…

Outfit the NEW Invermere Public Library for Christmas Give a LEGACY gift this season www.NEWinvermerelibrary.ca

Cheques or monies can be dropped off at the front desk of the library or mailed to The Invermere Public Library at P.O. Box 989, Invermere, BC V0A 1K0.

“Donations of $20.00 or more will be mailed a tax receipt by The Friends of the Invermere Public Library,” said Ms. Webster.

Valley

Professionals

Wende Brash Broker/Owner

INDEPENDENTLY OWNED AND OPERATED

BUS: 250-342-5599 dk@rockieswest.com www.TeamRice.ca

u

250-342-6416

ROCKIES WEST REALTY

CELL: 250-342-5935

g the Col

publiclibrary@invermere.net

COLUMBIA VALLEY REAL ESTATE

492 Highway 93/95 Invermere, BC VOA 1K2

r vin

bia

Your Local

Se

m

For valley book clubs to help raise funds towards the library, this would be a great way to reciprocate some goodwill back to the library. With roughly ten book clubs currently in the valley, support from each would be greatly appreciated.

Invermere Water and Sewer.

Along the hallway inside the front door, owner Mark Digney has hung old black and white photographs depicting the development of the building and surrounding area over the years.

“I leased it because it’s great. I think bringing commerce back to Athalmer is just cool, which is why I did the whole hallway with the old Athalmer pictures because anyone who’s seen it, there’s really no reason that Athalmer can’t have everything that downtown Invermere has and more,” he said.

RE/MAX Invermere

Glenn Pomeroy

MaxWell Realty Invermere 1214-7th Avenue, Invermere, B.C.

glennpomeroy@shaw.ca

Independently Owned and Operated

Cell: (250) 270-0666 Office: (250) 341-6044 Fax: 866-600-0673

1022B - 7th Avenue, Box 459 Invermere B.C. V0A 1K0 E-mail: wendebrash@telus.net Fax: 250-342-9611

Office: 250-342-6505 • Cell: 250-342-1300

22 • The Columbia Valley Pioneer

December 9, 2016

HERE TO SERVE YOU UPHOLSTERY

SERVICES

Kitchen cabinet & counter top SpecialiStS

Golden Upholstery A family business since 1960

Westridge Cabinets Dealer ~ Granite and Quartz Counter Tops

• Residential/Commercial • Recreational Vehicle • Custom projects and more!

Patrick Parent 250-439-8074

Come visit our showroom,

goldenupholstery1960@gmail.com Box 53, Brisco, B.C. V0A 1B0

492 arrow rd., unit 1b 250-342-hoMe (4663)

Serving the Columbia Valley and beyond.

Selkirk Appliance Repair

SERVICES

Box 2073 Invermere, B.C. V0A 1K0

1 Week Free Trial

• Non profit society serving the Valley since 1987!

• Weight room, cardio, Women Only and 25+ classes per week including yoga, Zumba, Ski Fit, Qigong, spin and more!

• Now open 4 am – midnight with key tag access Bring in this ad to activate!

Limit one per person (new members only)

David Matheson

Owner

250-342-5151

selkirkapplrepair@hotmail.com

Scott Wilisky

stwcarpentry@live.ca • 250-270-0745

THE VALLEY’S LARGEST WINDOW COVERINGS SHOWROOM

www.valleyfitnesscentre.ca 250-342-2131 www.facebook.com/valleyfitnesscentre

Judy: (250) 341-1903

• Roller Shades • Roman Shades • Cellular Shades

www.valleysolutions.ca valleysolutions@shaw.ca

• Pleated Shades • Horizontal Blinds • Shutters

Come visit our showroom,

SOLUTIONS FOR THE VACATION HOME OWNER SINCE 2006

• House Checking • Complications • Details

Sales ~ Service ~ Installation

UNIVERSAL DOORS & EXTERIORS Arnold Scheffer 250-342-6700

492 ARROW RD., UNIT 1B 250-342-HOME (4663)

ROSS‛S POOLS & SPAS Darren Ross Box 72, Canal Flats, B.C. V0B 1B0

unidoorext@live.ca • unidoorext.ca

• FURNACES • HEAT PUMPS • AIR CONDITIONING • FIREPLACES • HOT TUBS • CHEMICALS • REPAIRS & MAINTENANCE 385 Laurier Street, Invermere, B.C.

Phone: 250-342-7100 Email: info@diamondheatingandspas.com

www.diamondheatingandspas.com WETT Certified

Commercial

Resdential

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

BOUTIQUE VACATION HOME MANAGEMENT RENTAL SERVICES

Industrial ~ Commercial ~ Residential

Call for your FREE consultation and estimate

Snow Removal • Lawn Maintenance

Commercial – Residential Installation – Maintenance – Repairs

Cell: 250-341-7727 • Fax: 1-778-523-2426 • poolman-911@hotmail.com

• Air Conditioning/Heat Pumps • Fireplaces • Full Heating and Ventilation Systems

• Vertical Blinds • Automation • Residential & Commercial

“Proven and successful Management and Marketing Services for your Vacation Home” “Trip Advisor Vacation Rental of the Year 2011, 2012 and 2013”

Call or visit online

PH: 1-888-711-ESCAPE (3722) • WEB: www.cobblestonecreek.ca

Have something to say? Letters to the editor can be e-mailed to news@columbiavalleypioneer.com

December 9, 2016

The Columbia Valley Pioneer • 23

HERE TO SERVE YOU PHARMACY

PLUMBING

LAMBERT-KIPP

P H A R M A C Y LT D .

Come in and browse our giftware

J. Douglas Kipp, B. Sc. (Pharm.)

Laura Kipp, Pharm D., Irena Shepard, B.Sc. (Pharm.)

Your Compounding Pharmacy Open Monday - Saturday 9 a.m. - 6 p.m.

1301 - 7th Avenue, Invermere

250-342-6612

(Formerly Dehart) NEW SEWER CAMERA

• • •

CARPET CLEANING

• Septic Tank Pumping • Portable Toilet Rentals

Complete sewer/drain repairs • Reasonable rates – Seniors’ discount • Speedy service – 7 days a week

A well maintained septic system should be pumped every 2-3 years Avoid costly repairs

Bruce Dehart 250.347.9803 or 250.342.5357

Your search for quality and dependability ends with us.

Carpet & Upholstery Cleaning Specialists Truck Mounted System • Customer Satisfaction Guaranteed

Dean Hubman

Toll Free: 877-342-3052

Certified Technician

Invermere, BC V0A 1K3 odysseyrestoration@telus.net

250-342-3052

INSURANCE

LANDSCAPING

Lambert

design@gldltd.com • 250-688-0757 w w w. g l d l a n d s c a p i n g . c o m

Residential & Commercial Carpet & Upholstery Cleaning

INSURANCE AGENCIES LTD.

BOX 2228 BOX 459 742 - 13th STREET 7553 MAIN STREET INVERMERE, BC. RADIUM HOT SPRINGS, BC V0A 1K0 V0A 1M0 PHONE: 250-342-3031 PHONE: 250-347-9350 FAX: 250-342-6945 FAX: 250-347-6350 Email: info@invermereinsurance.com • Toll Free: 1-866-342-3031

Bus: 250-342-9692 Cell: 250-342-5241

RR#4 2117 - 13 Avenue Invermere, B.C. V0A 1K4

www.ptarmigan-invermere.com

CONTRACTING

CONCRETE

READY MIX CONCRETE Concrete Pump • Sand & Gravel Heavy Equipment Rentals • Crane Service

250-341-1182

Box 424, Invermere B.C. V0A 1K0

Proudly Serving the Valley for over 50 years

Serving the Columbia Valley

www.cabincare.ca

For competitive prices and prompt service, call: 250-342-3268 (plant) 250-342-6767 (office) • Ready Mix Concrete • Commercial concrete sealer • Concrete Pumping retarder for exposed • Over 50 colours available aggregate and in stock • DELIVERED ON TIME • Concrete stamps for rent at a fair price • Full range of coloured release • Full range of sand and agents for stamping gravel products.

Fax: 250-342-9644 rugclean@telus.net

• • • •

Renovations Decks Finishing Interior/Exterior Painting David Gulbe Mike Bernicot

Dale Elliott Contracting • •

Interior Finishing Kitchen and Vanity Cabinets • Countertops • Small Renovations • Decks and Interior Railings

250-341-7098 Invermere, B.C.

Phone: 250-342-5833 • Cell: 250-270-9444 All products are available at 9120, Hwy 93/95 which is five kilometres north of Tim Hortons

Pioneer Classified Advertising 250-341-6299

Call Amanda Nason to advertise your business in our Here To Serve You section.

Ph: 250-341-6299 • Fax: 1-888-377-0312 • info@columbiavalleypioneer.com

N E W S PA P E R

24 • The Columbia Valley Pioneer

December 9, 2016

Survey calls for opinions on solar energy strong support of getting the project moving with a number of viable options that could be explored.

“I have found that with those community renewable energy projects, it’s not always Those looking for alternative energy sources in the Columbia Valley may have just solar, it’s that people get together, they find a common purpose and realize that an idea to get behind. Marianna Ober is currently conwe as a community have the power to be autonomous, do our own thing and we don’t have to rely on the big utiliducting a feasibility study on community shared solar in “I think a community solar system would be a ties companies,” she said. “It empowers people and it’s a Invermere as part of her master’s thesis and she needs regreat idea for this town and so far from what I positive experience for them.” spondents for her survey. can tell from the survey is that people are really She said that the initiative to start this should come Ms. Ober said she started working on this project interested, really keen to learn more.” two years ago when beginning her Master of Science in from the community first and the initial process for that is the completion of her survey. green economy in a distance-learning program at a uniMarianna Ober versity in England.

“It’s for people and the public opinion is very imporMaster’s Student tant to inform whatever is going to happen with this,” she “I’ve been doing that for two years and I’m really excited that I can apply this knowledge locally now and said. “If the majority of people say this is exactly what we hopefully create something that makes a difference for want, but we have certain ideas or certain concerns, then people,” she said. “I think a community solar system would be a great idea for this this will be taken into consideration of course and would be part of the discussion and town and so far from what I can tell from the survey is that people are really interested, hopefully this discussion is going to be started next week.”

The survey is available to be completed at https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/ really keen to learn more.”

She said she has met with a number of people across the community who are in Invermere.

By Eric Elliott Pioneer Staff

HERE TO SERVE YOU CONCRETE

SPECIAL OFFER

Purchase 1 metre of concrete and receive 1 metre of Birdseye aggregate (1/4”washed rock) (Used as decorative rock, backfill and bedding)

FREE!

Value $18.75/m or $12.50/tonne. Pickup at Skandia (trucking extra)

1756 Hwy 93/95 Windermere B.C.

CONTRACTING

Skandia I N P U R S U I T O F Concrete EXCELLENCE • Manufactures & suppliers of quality • Environmentally responsible concrete & gravel products • Steamed aggregate beds for top • Experience, professional operators quality year round concrete supply and the right equipment to get your • We stand behind our service, job done quality and products • Serving the valley for over 30 years

Office: 250-342-6500 • Batch plant: 250-342-2812 • Toll Free: 1-888-341-2221

CONTRACTING

CONTRACTING

• • • •

Doors Windows Flooring Painting/ Interior/Exterior • Kitchen Renovations

• 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

FAIRMONT RIDGE RENOVATION

250-342-5682

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

5077 FAIRMONT RESORT RD., FAIRMONT BC EMAIL: fairmontridge@telus.net

For the latest financial tips, see Page 32 in this week’s…

Ph: 250-341-6299 • Fax: 1-888-377-0312 • info@columbiavalleypioneer.com

N E W S PA P E R

Scott Postlethwaite

Free Estimates

Residential, Commercial Electric Furnace and Hot Water Tank Repair and Service For All Your Electrical Needs invermereelectric@gmail.com

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

Phil Bibby Journeyman Carpenter

250.341.1995 philbibby@live.ca New Homes • Custom Builds • Renovations Big Or Small

December 9, 2016

The Columbia Valley Pioneer • 25

Pioneer Classifieds Pioneer Classified Deadlines Due to the upcoming holidays and office closure, our deadline for booking into the Friday, December 30th Pioneer classifieds is Monday, December 19th at noon.

Call 250-341-6299 ext. 101 or email amanda@columbiavalleypioneer.com to book your classified advertising

S OBITUARY S Byman, Hilda Patricia 1927 – 2016

It is with deep sadness that we announce Hilda Byman passed away peacefully at the Invermere & District Hospital on Friday, November 24, 2016 with family at her bedside.

Hilda was born on March 16, 1927 to Charles and Evelyn Franson. She was the eldest of six children, and was raised and lived in the Columbia Valley all her life.

At the age of 18 she fell in love with and married Ingvar Byman on June 16, 1945. They had five children. Hilda worked as a cook and caregiver at The Pynelogs for over 18 years.

THANK YOU The Johnson Families wish to thank all our extended family and friends for their love and support in our time of sorrow. We would also like to send a special thank you to Dr. Olmesdahl, Father Gabriel, McPherson Funeral Home for making our time of loss as easy as possible. A very special thank you to Hospice Society for providing empathy, love and support to Frieda, Wray and Family.

CHEERS & JEERS Cheers to Lisa and your team at the Post Office. You always go above and beyond to help this momma and make me and my little Master feel very special. Cheers for all the stickers too. Good luck during this busy season!

CHEERS & JEERS

Sponsored by

A huge CHEERS to Herb Weller who annually hosts hundreds of birthday parties at the Laird School climbing wall by donating his own time. Our community thrives because of volunteers like you!

Cheers to all the SD6 bus drivers who drove the Senior Girl’s volleyball team this season, especially Nanci Clarke whose wonderful driving got us safety to and from the provincials in Abbottsford.

CHEERS to the man in the Red Apple on Saturday who gave me his coupon! Your kindness turned my day around. I hope karma comes back to you 10x fold!

Double Jeers to whoever at “Highways” decided not to paint highway lines from Whiteswan north making for dangerous and miserable night driving.

S OBITUARY S Jamie Robyn Nicholas

Hilda loved swimming and playing baseball. Her biggest passion was her family and she was known as Gramma B to everyone.

December 31,1991 – December 3, 2016

She is survived by her 3 daughters Audrey (Gerry) Pepin, Verna Agnew, Doreen Beninger, son Albert Byman, 9 grandchildren, 9 great- grandchildren and 3 great-greatgrandchildren, one sister Shirley Mackey, and by her special friend Keira.

Her daughter Brenda went missing in 1961, and Hilda always held out hope that one day she would come home.

There will be a celebration of Hilda’s life on Saturday, March 18, 2017 at 11 am, at the Windermere Community Hall.

Interment of cremains will take place in Mount View Cemetery where she will be buried next to Ingvar.

In lieu of flowers, please donate to a charity of your choice.

Arrangements entrusted to McPherson Funeral Service.

Condolences for the family can be offered at www.mcphersonfh.com

CHEERS & JEERS

Cheers to Norma for coming to visit Cheers to the Invermere Rotary and bringing all the material to Club for donating 2 Christmas Trees make my own Christmas Wreath. to Columbia Garden Village and Ivy Real Christmas spirit after my House. Your generosity hasn’t gone JEERS Merry Christmas! surgery; you’re the best. CHEERS &unnoticed.

She spent many hours volunteering for the Windermere Hospital Auxiliary, Seniors Club and Windermere Community Hall.

Hilda was predeceased by her parents Charles and Evelyn Franson, husband Ingvar Byman, and companion Bill Chamberlain, brothers Ronald, Norman and Albert Franson, sister Gladys Sivorot, sons-in-law Barry Agnew, Roy Beninger, and great grandson Trè Micheal O’Connor.

• Phone: 250-341-6299 • Fax: 1-855-377-1312 • Email: info@columbiavalleypioneer.com • www.columbiavalleypioneer.com

Jamie was born and raised in the Invermere Valley. In 2012 she started her long, complicated and painful journey with Kidney disease.

Jamie went through numerous surgeries and travelled a great deal due to her Kidney disease. No matter how hard the surgery was on her body she always had a smile on her face when it was picture time.

Throughout her short life Jamie made many friends, she was always so easy to get along with.

Jamie leaves behind Mom (Lavonne); Step dad (Stan); Dad (Solo); One Sister (Cecelia); 3 brothers (Hughie, Aaron, Coltton); Grandma Millie; Uncle Shayne & Mike, and many more Aunts, Uncles and Cousins.

Jamie’s family would like to thank all the first responders.

A wake will be held at The Old Shuswap Band Hall at 5 pm, December 9th. The funeral will also be held at the Old Shuswap Band Hall and will be held at 11 am on December 10th.

A SUPER huge Cheers to everyone that put on and supported Heather Bibby’s fundraiser at The Station Pub a week ago Saturday. Once again this valley has answered the call of need for one of our own.

Comforting to know the valley has your back. A true community.

CHEERS & JEERS Cheers to Summit Footwear and their challenge to Small Businesses.

Summit Footwear will match their donations to the Columbia Valley Center to a maximum of $25,000. It is wonderful when our local businesses are so generous.

Well done Summit Footwear. Now let’s hope the rest of the small businesses take them up on their challenge.

Cheers to Mike in Edgewater for helping out two damsels in distress on Sunday night! We made it up the driveway!

Cheers to the landlord and lady who give a Poinsettia every Christmas to the tenants in their buildings. Very much appreciated!

Jeers to our politicians who make up stories or reverse their positions JUST to get elected; a sad state of affairs.

Cheers to the Wilmer musician who has taken it upon himself to “busk” at local venues to raise money for the Christmas Bureau.

A monster Cheers to Nana and Opa for flying all the way out here to see us Bears before Christmas. We love you very much!

Cheers to the Invermere Seniors Club for your generosity.

Cheers to Sylvia Walker for all your friendship and support.

Three Cheers for Joan O’Neil. She’s a great woman and she deserves credit for her work.

The Fairmont and District Lions wish to send out a big Cheers to Scott Powell for donating his time and equipment to keep our Lions Den parking lot free of snow and ice.

Cheers to Wendy Miller from Fairmont for returning my tool box at the dump.

Big Cheers to the Kanata parking lot Candy Cane Fairy! Very nice to come out from having breakfast and see that there is a Candy Cane hanging from my truck.

CHEERS to those who braved the cold and came out to the TRANS Day of Remembrance vigil. You make the world a more loving and accepting place to be in!

ANNOUNCEMENT The meaning of Christmas is to give Christmas meaning. Have a REAL TREE Christmas.

LOST AND FOUND Found: Maybe prescription sunglasses found in Invermere. Call 250-342-1108 to claim.

26 • The Columbia Valley Pioneer

STORAGE

VACATION RENTAL

NEWHOUSE MULTI STORAGE

Various sizes available.

Now with climate-controlled units.

Call 250-342-3637.

STORAGE SPACE – assorted sizes, easy access, immediate availability, long-term or short-term. Deck Properties Warehouse, Industrial Park: 250-342-3166.

NEW INVERMERE GUEST SUITE 2016/2017 dates available now!

COMMERCIAL SPACE NEWHOUSE MULTI STORAGE 24 x 36 shop power included, propane heat at tenant’s expense, $650/mo first and last D.D. required. Contact Newhouse Multi Storage 250-342-3637.

1490 sq. ft. of shop/retail space in Athalmer, 2 large overhead doors! $1272/mo, all utilities included.

Newhouse Multi Storage, 250-3423637, newmulti@telus.net.

For lease: 2,000 sq. ft. office and warehouse space. Located at #5 - 108 Industrial Road #2. Rent negotiable. Phone Leo at 250-3421177.

CONDO FOR RENT For rent in Radium, 2-bdrm, 4 bath, ground level condo. Beautiful views, backs on to The Springs golf course. All appliances, fireplace, fully furnished. 2 car garage. N/S, N/P, references please. $1650/mo, call 250-342-3790.

Walk to town, beach, free ski bus, 3 bedroom, 1 bath, kitchen, LR, FP, Air Cable, Internet.

Daily, weekly and monthly.

John Newton Cell/text 250-342-5723 john20newton@gmail.com

SUITE FOR RENT Radium: Motel Bavaria, low low rates, daily, weekly, monthly.

Kitchenettes available. Call 250347-3315.

Must see, 3-bdrm, 2 bath, modern, energy efficient, newly built suite for rent, walking distance to downtown. W/D, dishwasher, N/S. $1,500/mo utilities included. 250688-0708.

Rustic log cabin. Partly furnished, references please, mature tenants only. Call 250-342-9636, leave message.

December 9, 2016

SUITE FOR RENT

HELP WANTED

HELP WANTED

Bright 1-bdrm furnished basement suite for single or couple $850/mo.

Gas range, shared laundry, utilities included, N/P, available Jan 1st.

250-342-9404.

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.

Radium: 2-bdrm main floor apartment, D.D. required. N/S, $900/mo., utilities included, available Jan 1/17. Call 250-3426904.

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.

Dragonfly Discovery Centre is looking for a BC Licensed ECE staff person. Part time to start. Could just cover Christmas Holidays and then one day per week ongoing. Must be physically fit. Fun, creative, learning environment and small class size with lots of space. Can lead to full time in Spring. Email resume to dragonflydiscoverycentre@gmail.com.

For rent in Radium: Modern 2-bdrm, lower level suite. W/D, D/W, N/S, N/P. $850/mo, utilities included. 250-342-3790.

SHARED ACCOMMODATION 1-bdrm for rent in town with private bath in a 3-bdrm house.

W/D, N/S, dog negotiable, small yard. Must be super clean, active and fun. $625/mo, D.D. $625.

References, yes please. Bills included. Available immediately.

Please call 778-252-1167.

FIREWOOD Support Rockies Hockey firewood.

Larch, fir, pine and poplar split and delivered. Call 250-342-6908.

Pine Firewood, pine and mixes available. Call 250-342-1586.

Firewood For Sale. $220 per cord.

Cut, split and delivered. 250-3413544.

Radium: Downtown bachelor suite, N/S, $360/mo + D.D. Includes utilities. Call 250-342-6904.

NOTICES

Please direct all inquiries to Bob Littlejohns at bob.littlejohns@gmail.com

r vin

g t h e Co

lu l ia Val ey

• Previous service on non-profit board of directors • Knowledge and/or interest in board governance • Knowledge and/or interest in programs and services to persons with developmental disabilities • Passion for inclusion and willingness to commit to a working board

Shannon’s Blinds & Designs Thank you for your votes - Best of Business Awards! We are grateful and appreciative of your support and loyalty. “Blinds, Drapery, retractable screen doors and more.”

250-342-5749.

HELP WANTED Radium Valley Vacation Resort is looking for a year round housekeeper to join our awesome team. Must be able to work weekends. Incentive plan and benefit package. Wage dependent on experience. Great working environment! A “can do” attitude and previous housekeeping experience required. Resumes accepted by fax 250-347-9808 and email at radval@shaw.ca.

EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY mb

The Governance Committee of the Windermere District Social Service Society (WDSSS) is currently seeking interested candidates for appointment to the Board of Directors including, but not limited to, candidates with the following experience:

Heaven’s Best Carpet and Upholstery Cleaning Environmentally friendly products.

Dry in 1 hour! Call 250-688-0213 or visit www.heavensbest.ca.

HELP WANTED

Se

WINDERMERE DISTRICT SOCIAL SERVICE SOCIETY

SERVICES

Student Library Page

This is a part-time position (7 hrs/wk) for a student to join the team at the Invermere Public Library.

Duties will include shelving books, tidying bookshelves and keeping them in order, assisting with craft preparation for story time, helping with library programs, and other library-type tasks.

Applicants must be a full-time secondary or post-secondary student, 15 years of age or older in order to be considered for the position. If you are a good organizer, enjoy working with people, and willing to learn new skills, we’d love to hear from you. Please submit a resume and cover letter to the library either in person or via email at publiclibrary@invermere.net by December 16th, 2016.

invermere.bclibrary.ca Pioneer Classified Advertising 250-341-6299

Subway Radium is looking to fill Full-time and Part-time positions.

Call 347-9988 to apply or drop off resume.

Strands Old House Restaurant is accepting applications for a cook/chef two to three years experience in casual fine dining preferred. Evenings and weekends.

Apply to Tony Wood at tony@ strandsrestaurant.com or 250-3426344.

December 9, 2016

HELP WANTED

The Columbia Valley Pioneer • 27

Walking the talk: Water Resilience Watershed Wanderings

By Megan Peloso Pioneer Columnist

The Eva Joseph Learning and Cultural Society is seeking a

Certified Bookeeper to commence January 3, 2017.

The successful candidate will possess: • Working knowledge of Sage 50 • Current criminal record clearance for the province of BC • Computer skills including Word and Excel • Office administrative skills This is a five-month contract that ends May 31, 2017 Please email resume with references before December 16, 2016 to Carrie Rickards, General Manager, Eva Joseph Learning and Cultural Society at carrie.littlebadgers@gmail.com

Hi! If you’ve been following, welcome back. If not, this is the final article in a series to share, tease apart, and think more locally about three themes that came out of a recent Watersheds Forum in Vancouver.

Grandmother Josephine is a respected Anishinaabe elder and Water Walker. She has walked more than 17,000 kilometres around the shorelines of all five Great Lakes to raise awareness about issues threatening freshwater in the region. She addressed our group at the Musqueam Cultural Centre, after a voyageur canoe trip through strong headwinds to the mouth of the Fraser River.

HELP WANTED

LVL Press Operator Position Brisco Manufacturing Ltd., a privately held Canadian Company specializing in producing High-Quality Certified engineered beams and other products from Laminated Veneer Lumber, is seeking to hire a Press Operator for our plant in Brisco, BC.

The Eva Joseph Learning and Cultural Society is seeking an

Early Childhood Educator for the Little Badgers Early Learning Program, to commence January 3, 2017.

Are you Positive, Present, and Purposeful? Do you practice Kindness, Respect, Collegiality, and Professional Excellence? Are you Creative, and Collaborative? If this sounds like you, then we want you as a member of our Little Badger Early Learning Childcare team.

At Little Badgers we work with natural materials, using a constructive play approach.

The successful candidate will possess: • Current child safe first aid/CPR • Current criminal record clearance for the province of BC • Current ECE license to practice in BC • Proof of compliance with BC immunization schedule • Medical practitioner statement • Basic computer skills • Knowledge of BC Child Care Licensing Regulations Please email resume with 3 character references before December 16, 2016, to Carrie Rickards, General Manager, Eva Joseph Learning and Cultural Society, carrie.littlebadgers@gmail.com

Pioneer Classified Advertising 250-341-6299

Our facility is located just north of Radium Hot Springs in the beautiful Columbia Valley in British Columbia.

General Summary: The Press Operator is required to learn various tasks including Loading and unloading the Press using cranes, planning various configurations, finishing and packaging, counting inventory as well as general cleanup and other duties as required.

Key Responsibilities: • Perform tasks efficiently focusing on Safety, Quality and Production while meeting deadlines.

• Using a variety of equipment such as hydraulic press, planer, glue machine, cranes and hand tools.

• Fill out paperwork accurately.

• Work effectively together with assigned crew.

• Following established procedures to safely produce high quality results.

Qualifications: • Experience in manufacturing or equipment operation an asset. Willing to train the right candidate.

• Safety Oriented • Ability to follow direction and work together with others to complete assigned tasks.

• Ability to use simple mathematics.

• Physically fit, Team player, able to work from heights.

• Self reliant, organized, motivated and quality oriented.

This is a full-time position, which offers a competitive wage and comprehensive benefits package.

We wish to thank all applicants for their interest, however, only those selected for interviews will be contacted.

Please address cover letter and resume to Ralph Tomlin – VP Operations and e-mail pdf file to: epetersen@briscowood.com or Fax to 250-346-3218 Deadline for application is 5 pm (MST) Monday, December 12, 2016.

Someone in the audience asked Grandmother Josephine about the disasters brought by extreme drought and flooding: What was happening to the water system of the planet? What could we do? In a strikingly calm, assured tone, I was surprised when she responded that “Mother Earth is healing herself.”

Before you discount this remark too quickly — as our critical minds are adept at doing — consider that the ability of ecosystems to bounce back when faced with assault has been demonstrated and verified by researchers whose life’s work is observing nature’s behaviours. The ability of nature to “bounce back” has been referred to as healing, repair, recovery and, more popular today, resilience.

The power of language, rising up to the surface again!

Wetlands, for example, are believed to be absolutely crucial to the natural recovery of ecosystems, both coastal and inland. Despite docile appearances, wetlands are places of true landscape drama. If you’ve gone out to the bluffs of the Columbia Wetlands Wildlife Management Area throughout the seasons, you’ve witnessed drastically different scenery. Absorbing abundance, cleansing impurities, and dispersing water when it is needed. Healing, repair, recovery, resilience.

You might even say that the internationally renowned Columbia River Wetlands cushioning Columbia Lake and Lake Windermere are a truly remarkable example of healing power at work. Why not? It is very likely that, without them, Lake Windermere would not only be more turbid (cloudy) and too warm to accommodate sensitive fish species like trout, but also critically overburdened with algae-creating nutrients like phosphates and nitrates, which could greatly degrade the experience of our favourite water-based sports and activities.

Although we know wetland systems are one of nature’s best repair mechanics (sometimes called nature’s kidneys), we don’t know as much about the level or frequency of assaults that can be tolerated before resilience is irreversibly destroyed. According to scientific estimates, 64 per cent of the world’s wetlands have disappeared (the majority drained, filled or converted) since 1900 (www. ramsar.org). Ensuring the Columbia Wetlands remain intact and functioning is therefore a very important task that will ultimately benefit all who enjoy the lakes of the Columbia Basin.

Lake Windermere Ambassadors’ continued efforts to monitor water quality and test for nutrient levels will help to gauge the resilience and tolerance of our large watershed ecosystem over time. Healing is certainly a different way to think about the changes we are seeing in landscapes and waters. But, as we often say (thank you, Einstein), problems are not solved with the same thinking that created them.

Let us know what you thought of the three-part series!

Find Lake Windermere Ambassadors on Facebook, Twitter (@LakeAmbassadors) and Instagram (lakeambassadors).

Megan Peloso is the Program Co-ordinator for the Lake Windermere Ambassadors.Email her at info@lakeambassadors.ca or call the office at 250-341-6898.

28 • The Columbia Valley Pioneer

December 9, 2016

Orphan cub from Canal Flats to be rehabilitated

By Eric Elliott Pioneer Staff An orphaned black bear cub is on its way up to the Northern Lights Wildlife Shelter in Smithers, B.C. after being reported to the local Conservation Officer Service earlier this month.

The 11-month old cub was first reported on November 6th and has been frequenting a private property in Canal Flats since the initial report while being monitored to ensure the cub was showing up alone. After making that evaluation, conservation officers made the decision to safely live-trap the cub on November 30th on the private property.

Andrea Smillie, WildSafeBC community coordinator, said a truck or train likely killed the cub’s mother as the property in Canal Flats is located near both the tracks and Highway 93/95.

“The cub was likely without its mother for several weeks, fending for itself and doing quite well, however, it may not have hibernated and would eventually lose all food sources now that winter is here,” she told The Pioneer. “The cub seems healthy and was eating what the Conservation Officer Service gave to it while it kept overnight on November 30th.”

Northern Lights volunteers drove the cub to Kamloops on December 1st, where a transport company met them to take the cub to Smithers.

Ms. Smillie said they had assessed the animal and determined that it was not yet habituated to humans, meaning that it would be able to go through

the rehabilitation process and survive.

“A ‘habituated’ bear has lost its natural wariness of humans, and this often results when a bear accesses human (anthropogenic) food including garbage, bird feeders, barbecues, etc.,” she said.

“In this circumstance, where there is little known about the history of the cub, the CO (conservation officer) had to decide based on how comfortable the cub was around humans. This cub was scared, defensive and very uncomfortable around humans.”

“This is why the cub’s cage was covered with a tarp in a garage where people didn’t frequent, until transferring it, and why photos were taken quickly and the tarp was quickly replaced afterward,” she added.

The assumption that the cub is around 11 months old is based on the fact that most bears are born in the month of January and it is too small to be two years old. Ms. Smillie said that bears typically breed in late June but do not become pregnant until the fall depending on whether they have enough fat stores to have cubs and nurse them throughout the winter. If the mother does, she will likely give birth to one to five cubs in January and remain in the den until late April.

According to the Northern Lights Wildlife Society, they have found that rehabbed bears do not return to human settings upon their release. If the rehabilitation process goes as planned, the hope is to release the cub back into the wildlife in the Canal Flats area in June 2017.

. . . ‘Canadian’ from page 3 freedom of religion (as guaranteed under the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms) since it infringes on Qat’muk, a territory the Ktunaxa consider sacred.

This petition was dismissed by the B.C. Supreme Court in April 2014. The Ktunaxa appealed that result, but in August 2015, the B.C. Court of Appeals upheld the initial ruling, prompting the Ktunaxa to take the case to the highest possible level in Canada.

Ms. Teneese told The Pioneer that what started as a case about a specific group and a specific place grew into something much larger as it wound through the various courts — as case about how Aboriginal people’s beliefs are incorporated in government decision-making — and attracted attention from across Canada and internationally.

“It has been interesting and somewhat frustrating in that the court system simply is not geared to deal with some of the issues we are trying to bring forward,” said Ms. Teneese. “I was happy to have a delegation there (in Ottawa). It has been quite a feat for the Ktunaxa Nation — really, we’re a small First Nation in the big picture — to bring an issue of such far-reaching impact to the fore.

Of that I’m quite proud.”

From a professional standpoint, the court room was

SCARED BUT SAFE — Because this little orphaned cub found in Canal Flats displayed fear toward humans, it qualified for care at the Northern Lights Wildlife Shelter in Smithers, B.C.

Photo submitted

packed during the December 1st hearing, with a total of 44 lawyers actively involved in the case as either counsel or acting agent. The number could easily have been higher, since several lawyers were acting in two, three or even four different roles in the case, representing multiple separate clients. The unusually high number of lawyers comes as a result of 14 different groups seeking, and being granted, intervener status in the case.

“That is a reflection that the issue at the heart of the case is of concern to a broad range of interest,” said Ms. Teneese.

The intervening parties included Canada’s Attorney General, Saskatchewan’s Attorney General, the Canadian Muslim Lawyers Association, the South Asian Legal Clinic of Ontario, the Kootenay Presbytery (the United Church of Canada), the Evangelical Fellowship of Canada, the Christian Legal Fellowship, the Alberta Muslim Public Affairs Council, Amnesty International Canada, the Te’mexw Treay Association, the Central Coast Indigenous Resource Alliance, the Shibogama First Nations Council, the Canadian Chamber of Commerce, the B.C. Civil Liberties Association, the Council of Passamaqouddy Nation at Schoodic, the Katzie First Nation, and the West Moberly First Nations and Prophet River First Nation.

Since the intervening parties were required to sit in

the courtroom with the major party they were supporting, it was readily apparent that the majority of interveners were supportive of the Ktunaxa, said Ms. Teneese, adding that seven of the interveners were allowed to speak in the case.

Among the interveners supporting the Ktunaxa, the Canadian Attorney General spoke about the principle of the issue at stake, while among the interveners supportive to the Ministry of Forests, Lands and Natural Resource Operations, the Canadian Chamber of Commerce and the Saskatchewan Attorney General expressed concern that the case could set a precedent affecting activity right across the country.

Although the Kootenay Presbytery (whose executive includes Windermere Valley Shared Ministry representative and Pioneer Faith page columnist Laura Hermakin) did not speak during the case, the group chair Greg Powell sent a press release to The Pioneer stating “we enjoy the freedom to give thanks and seek wholeness in accordance with Christian traditions and practices. We want the same freedom for our Indigenous brothers, sisters, and siblings.”

Just how long a judgement will take is not yet clear, but the rulings in the case’s two previous hearings took several months.

December 9, 2016

‘Tis the season Left to right, top to bottom: The BIG Christmas Craft Fair on Saturday, December 3rd was bustling with vendors and shoppers; Kim Wilson and Trish Bleckstock at the Saunders Family Farm table; Lucian Kinsey holds his caricature drawn by Elizabeth Segstro (Eric Elliott photos); Santa was on hand for Feed the Town on Sunday, December 4th at Copper Point Golf Club where volunteers served up a feast to roughly 1,200 people and $3,025 was collected for the food bank as well as 1,100 pounds of food donations; Valley Forged rocked Smoking Waters, also on December 4th, when the Fairmont coffee shop hosted Santa Claus (Dean Midyette photos); a memorial ceremony for the 14 women killed in the 1992 Montreal Massacre was held at the Women’s Centre on December 6th (Sarah Kloos photo).

The Columbia Valley Pioneer • 29

30 • The Columbia Valley Pioneer

December 9, 2016

. . . ‘Possibility’ from page 20 parent, but because you failed,” said parent Meredith Hamstead, who at one point strode up to where the trustees and Mr. Carriere were sitting and asked: “You want to know what it’s like to have something taken away from you?” before grabbing Mr. Carriere’s paper and pen, and saying: “It’s like that!”

“I know you’ll feel a loss if the program moves from Windermere, but losing the program altogether (because of low student numbers) will be a bigger loss,” said Mr. Neider, adding that in his opinion a bus ride between Windermere and Invermere should not be a large barrier for students living in one community to access the program in the other.

Parents also outlined general concern about students not meeting provincial French curriculum requirements.

“My child can’t speak French at all. She can tell you she’s a pizza, but she can’t tell you how she feels about it,” said Ms. Hamstead.

Speaking after the meeting, Mr. Carriere told The Pioneer that when the program was first established, it was conceived of as a Windermere zone-wide program (with students coming from other elementary schools to access it at one location) rather than a Windermere Elementary program, and that Windermere Elementary was chosen as the spot for it because of its relatively central location with respect to other elementary schools in the valley and because of its pre-existing “positive orientation to French.”

Enrolment numbers for the Intensive French program each year since it began in 2008 has been, chronologically, 25, 25, 39, 27, 28, 15, 24, 16 and 21. Mr. Carriere said the number of students accessing the program from schools other than Windermere has tapered off through the years and that next year’s projected numbers for all Grade 6 students at Windermere are 19, and that certainly not all of those will opt to do Intensive French. Projections show less than 20 Grade 6 students at Windermere for the next four years, he added.

“Windermere parents are quite upset, being that they identify strongly with the program. The board is aware of that. The challenge is, what’s best for the program?” said Mr. Carriere, adding another reason Windermere parents are upset may be that if the program moves to Laird and enrolment jumps up, a lottery will be needed to decide which students get in, instead of students getting in the program automatically, as currently happens.

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The Invermere

ALLEY CHO

Pick up the Pioneer’s sister paper ~ The Invermere Valley Echo ~ every Wednesday.

{Subscriptions also available}

More is better.

There’s more to the valley than meets the eye…

See this week's December 7th Invermere Valley Echo for:

Brisco pole plant employees reach collective agreement (page 1) Proposed fishing regulations affect local lakes (page 3) Good citizenship nominations are open (page 3)

Kinder Morgan pipeline approval faces many legal challenges (page 4) Local girls shine in Whitecaps Academy showcase (page 7) Invermere loses its best bonsai grower (page 8) Wasyn Rice commits to U.S. collage hockey (page 16)

“That (the lottery) is the case with the French Immersion program in the Golden zone, and is the case with the Intensive French program in Kimberley, so we would expect that would be the case here,” he said.

Similar meetings on the topic have been held at Martin Morigeau Elementary School in Canal Flats, and at Eileen Madson Primary (EMP) School and J. Alfred Laird Elementary School in Invermere.

“There was support from the parents of EMP and Laird for moving the program to Laird, which is what you might expect,” said Mr. Carriere. “If you look at things from the perspective of Windermere parents, you see things one way. When you look at it from the perspective of the whole zone, you see things differently. That’s the challenge facing trustees.” Mr. Carriere added that trustees will need some time to review the information gleaned at the Windermere meeting before making any decisions. . . . ‘Stetski’ from page 3 no one can tell me what they are to validate the changes,” Mr. Richards said. “I think the argument that the election was a referendum is a pretty difficult one to make. I don’t recall this being a top-ofthe-mind issue during the election in any way.”

Instead, the Liberal Government has set up an online survey to learn what Canadians think about electoral reform.

The survey is available online for 25 days as a way to further study Canadians’ opinions on electoral reform at www.

MyDemocracy.ca. While it is an informative process to collect more opinion from Canadians, Mr. Richards said the survey misses the point.

“I’ve seen many people on social media mock that (survey), but also say ‘I don’t see how that is in line with the answers I gave’,” he said about the survey that pigeon-holes the respondent into personality-type categories upon conclusion. “At the end of the day, (the survey doesn’t) ask you what system you’d like to see or ask you if there should be a referendum, which are the real actual questions that anyone who’s watched this or followed it would ask.”

NDP Columbia River MP Wayne Stetski — who conducted a tour of the riding to gather constituents’ input for the committee report — told The Pioneer that while the survey may not be a referendum, it could provide the government a way out of having to hold one in the future if the sentiment isn’t strong enough in support of reform.

“The Liberals have been saying all along that they would not commit to a referendum so this postcard (sent to Canadians to let them know about the survey — those without Internet access can phone in) might in the end become their version of a referendum,” he said.

“If people choose not to respond or if the people choose to respond and there are

some people that would like to stay with the current system, that could end up being the rationale that this postcard is a mini referendum for Canada.”

During the 2015 federal election campaign, now-Prime Minister Justin Trudeau promised that the election would be the last under the first-pastthe-post electoral system. Since taking office, though, his tune has changed.

“Under Mr. Harper, there were so many people dissatisfied with the government and its approach, they were saying, ‘We need electoral reform so that we no longer have a government we don’t like’,” Mr. Trudeau said during an interview with Le Devoire. “However, under the current (first-past-the-post) system, they now have a government they are more satisfied with. And the motivation to want to change is less compelling.”

For Mr. Stetski, this is a clear example of a politician rolling back on his promises.

“Shocked and disappointed are not too strong for me,” he said. “It is really unfortunate whenever politicians say one thing to get elected and do another once they’re in power. It just shouldn’t happen and it unfortunately seems to be happening in several occasions in the last year and a half with the new Liberal government.”

The government has said they will move ahead with potential legislation targeted for May 2017 with no more definitive answers on what exactly that will be. For now, said Mr. Stetski, all people can do is fill out their survey to participate in the democratic process.

“We’ll see what the Liberals do with the result, but people in Invermere and the Columbia Valley, I would encourage them to make their voices heard through this process and it’s kind of like the next step that it looks like we’ll be going through,” he said.

Take the survey at www.My Democracy.ca.

December 9, 2016

The Columbia Valley Pioneer • 31

FAITH

Christmas is... CHRISTmas

By Pastor Wayne Frater Radium Christian Fellowship Church All to often, “Christ” is left out of Christmas and He really shouldn’t be.

CHRISTmas shows us the very nature of God. His very nature is giving, John 3:16 tells us “For God so loved the world that He gave.”

Who did He give? “His only begotten Son.” Why did He give? So “that whoever believes in Him should not perish but have everlasting life.”

On that Christmas Eve so long ago, that gift, God the Son, was born. Born for you and me, born for all mankind.

In Luke 2:10-14, we can read that God sent an entourage of angels to announce to the world the birth of His Son, their Saviour.

“Then the angel said to them, ‘Do not be afraid, for behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy which will be to all people. For there is born to you this day in the city of David a Saviour, who is Christ the Lord. And this will be the sign to you: You will find a Babe wrapped in swaddling clothes, lying in a manger.’ And suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host praising God and saying

‘Glory to God in the highest, And on earth peace, goodwill toward men!’”

I would like to take a moment and talk about that peace on earth the angels are so excited about.

Christmastime, to some people, is a very discouraging, depressing time. It shouldn’t be. Jesus tells us in John 14:27 NKJV: “Peace I leave with you, My peace I give to you; not as the world gives do I give to you. Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid.”

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

God gives freely, not as the world gives. We can’t earn it and we can’t pay for it. There’s no catch, no fine print and no strings attached. We can rest secure that He’s not ever going to take His peace away; We are told in Hebrews 13:5 that: “He will never leave us nor forsake us”. His peace is eternal! A life of peace begins when we invite Jesus to be our Lord and Saviour. Then as we align our thoughts, attitudes and actions with His Word, that peace will flood every area of our lives.

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

Will you receive that peace? All you have to do is believe in your heart, and profess with your mouth that Jesus is Lord and you will be saved.

LAKE WINDERMERE ALLIANCE CHURCH Sunday, December 11th 10:30 a.m. — Third Sunday of Advent

Worship And Life Instruction, “God Speaks – Shepherds: Joy” …

Pastor Trevor ministering.

“K.I.D.S.” Church, for children Age 3 to Grade 1; and Grades 2-7, during the Morning Service.

Lead Pastor Trevor Hagan • Associate Pastor Matt Moore 326 - 10th Avenue, Invermere 250-342-9535 • www.lakewindermerealliance.org WINDERMERE VALLEY SHARED MINISTRY ANGLICAN-UNITED Worship every Sunday, 10:30 a.m.

Children & Youth Sunday School at 10:30 a.m.

Christ Church Trinity, Invermere 1st and 3rd Sunday, March - Dec. 9 a.m.: All Saint’s, Edgewater 2nd Sunday, 7 p.m.: June - October at St. Peter’s Windermere Reverend Laura Hermakin 110 - 7th Avenue, Invermere 250-342-6644 • www.wvsm.ca VALLEY CHRISTIAN ASSEMBLY Sunday 10 a.m.: Worship Services.

Pastor Murray Wittke 4814 Highway Drive, Windermere 250-342-9511 • www.valleychristianonline.com ROMAN CATHOLIC CHURCH Saturday, 4:30 p.m.: at St. Anthony’s, Canal Flats.

Saturday, 5 p.m. and Sunday, 9 a.m.: at Canadian Martyrs’ Church in Invermere.

Sunday, 11 a.m.: at St. Joseph’s Church in Radium.

Father Gabriel • 712 -12th Ave., Invermere • 250-342-6167 ST. PETER’S LUTHERAN MISSION OF INVERMERE Worship services every Sunday at 1:30 p.m.

Christ Church Trinity, 110 - 7th Ave., Invermere Pastor Rev. David Morton • 250-417-5017 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

Shoebox success

CHURCH OF JESUS CHRIST OF LATTER-DAY SAINTS

On Sunday, November 20th at Lake Windermere Alliance Church, volunteers got ready to pack shoeboxes filled with toys, school supplies and more off to children in need around the world. Valley residents packed a total of 279 shoeboxes for Operation Christmas Child this year!

Thanks to all who helped out, including Fairmont Hot Springs Resort, Red Apple, Sobeys, DTSS, Kootenay Savings, local churches and many community members.

Photo submitted

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

President Adam Pasowisty • Columbia Valley Branch 5014 Fairway, Fairmont Hot Springs • 250-341-5792

You can remember someone special with your gift to the Canadian Cancer Society To donate In Memory or In Honour: www.cancer.ca | 250-426-8916 or call toll-free 1-800-656-6426 or mail to: #19, 19th Avenue South Cranbrook, B.C. V1C 2L9 Please include: Your name and address for tax receipt Name of the person being remembered Name and address to send card to

Let’s Make Cancer History

www.cancer.ca

32 • The Columbia Valley Pioneer

December 9, 2016

YOUR MONEY

How do U.S. interest rates affect Canada?

As discussed last week, the Republican government’s plans to create growth and inflation include lowering taxes and increased spending, among other things. Indeed, President-Elect Donald Trump has made it clear that he plans to increase spending, reduce taxes and decrease banking regulations in an effort to create growth, or inflation. At present, analysts have assigned about a 94 per cent probability of the Fed raising interest rates at their mid-December meeting.

This can leave people wondering how might the Canadian economy be affected if we are to enter an environment of rising interest rates south of the border?

Our consumers In Canada, consumers are heavily indebted and interest rates remain very low. This encourages more borrowing and spending, which is good for the economy in the short-term; however, debt could be a huge problem in Canada if U.S. interest rates rise sharply. This could force our interest rates upwards, slowing spending and further stalling our economy.

Already, Canadian banks have responded quickly to the threat of higher U.S. interest rates by increasing mortgage rates.

Our bond market Higher interest rates in the U.S. could negatively affect our bond market. Why? Because the U.S. is a larger,

stronger economy than ours, and if global investors can get a similar or higher return on U.S. bonds, they will likely sell or avoid Government of Canada bonds in favor of U.S. Treasury bonds. This could effectively price Canadian bonds out of the market unless bond prices adjust downwards, as falling bond prices cause bond yields to rise.

In the case of newly issued Canadian bonds, interest rates may have to increase in order to remain competitive and attract new investors. So although Finance Minister Bill Morneau says Canada will not necessarily increase interest rates in lock-step with the U.S., we may be forced to follow suit if the spread between our bond yields becomes too wide.

Our currency On the flip side, higher interest rates in the U.S. will likely push our dollar downwards, which is good for Canadian manufacturers. It is widely considered that a Canadian dollar worth 70 to 75 cents U.S. is most advantageous for trade. When our dollar hit parity and above with the U.S., our manufacturing sector was hit hard as multinational firms moved their operations to the U.S. or overseas. Though it’s a lagging indicator, a prolonged low dollar could help our manufacturing sector over time.

How might my portfolio be affected?

As mentioned above, higher interest rates in the

U.S. could negatively affect bonds, especially long-dated bonds with low coupons. Investors with domestic government bond holdings would be wise to diversify into bonds of corporations and foreign governments, or floating rate loans if their risk tolerance allows it. If not, GICs are a good alternative.

Over the past decade, due to low interest rates, yieldhungry investors who traditionally bought bonds began investing in dividend-paying stocks. Higher interest rates could chase those investors back into bonds, bringing the prices of dividend stocks down.

This could be cushioned somewhat by currency movements, however, those who invest in dividend stocks might want to reduce their exposure and consider buying value-based investments like Berkshire Hathaway shares, the Chou Associates fund, or undervalued stocks such as those in the U.S. banking sector.

Final thoughts It’s not a question of if, but when, rising interest rates will come into play. It is unclear what form rising interest rates will take, or how things will play out, but it’s inevitable at some point.

In the meantime, it helps to ensure your portfolio is positioned to benefit from rising interest rates, or at least offer some level of protection. If you are concerned about the effects of rising interest rates on your investment portfolio, speak to your financial advisor.

Investments, Insurance & Financial Planning Brendan Donahue BCOMM, CIM, FCSI

Senior Investment Advisor Insurance Agent

Sara Worley CIM®, FCSI®

Investment Advisor Insurance Agent

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