Vol13issue53

December 30, 2016 Vol. 53/Issue 13

Your Weekly Source for News and Events

The Columbia

Valley

The Columbia Valley Pioneer • 1 December 30, 2016

P ioneer

FREE

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

ROBIN IN THE ‘HOOD

AVY TRAINING

3 RETURN TO HEAVEN

Over the holidays, local Kim Hutton noticed a large flock of robins — about 20 — rummaging around Wilmer and couldn’t resist capturing them on camera, particularly this one enjoying the treat of a frozen berry.

Photo by Kim Hutton

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2 • The Columbia Valley Pioneer

December 30, 2016

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December 30, 2016

The Columbia Valley Pioneer • 3

VALLEY NEWS

Helicopters active during avalanche training pany had been operating on a seasonal basis in the valley for the past six winters, but this fall decided to About a week or so prior to the start set up at the Invermere airport yearof the Christmas holidays, Invermere round — a move that entailed staresidents and visitors may have noticed tioning several rescue aircraft at the plenty of helicopters flying overhead, airport permanently. the result of a large scale avalanche res“We had an opportunity, since cue simulation conducted by several we have the aircraft, for training, so valley organizations. we thought we should make use of The training exercise was initiated it,” said Mr. Gallagher. “It was quite

by Coldstream Helicopters and involved a large scale response.”

Columbia Valley Search and Rescue, The exercise — from call out to Panorama Mountain Resort ski patrol, getting 40 people on scene, rescuing RK Heliski, the Panorama fire departthe simulated victims, and getting ment and the Columbia Valley RCMP. everybody off the mountain — took “This is the first time we’ve done 40 minutes. Including the briefing a multi-agency response simulation,” and debriefing, the entire simulaColdstream president Robert Gallagher tion lasted fewer than two hours. told The Pioneer. “We did get a lot of “Which is pretty impressive, people calling, and wondering what was we’re happy with that,” said Mr. SIMULATION — A Coldstream helicopter lifts up from Taynton Bowl during a training exercise going on. It’s OK, it was just training.”

Gallagher. conducted in mid-December that involved multiple rescue agencies.

Photo by Steph Mallette The exercise was held in Taynton The decision for Coldstream, Bowl, just outside the current boundaries of Panorama Mountain Resort, and in- which has its headquarters in Kelowna, to set up a permanent base in the Columbia volved multiple helicopters flying in and out of Invermere and Panorama on Mon- Valley, which will be managed by valley resident Greg Flowitt, came because, “we day, December 12th. Further helicopter pilot training was conducted over the next saw there was a need here. A large portion of our summer work is dispatches into several days.

Alberta or the mountain parks, so it makes sense for us to have a base here,” said The simulation scenario was of a multi-burial avalanche, with varying levels of Mr. Gallager, adding that the company is also thinking of moving some of its heavy injuries (ranging from extremely critical to less critical), and involved more than 40 maintenance work here, which would result in employment for about 20 people. rescue and response personnel at the scene.

Coldstream’s business includes offering services for fire response in the summer, “It went really well. It was quite successful. We’ll probably do one every year rescue work year-round, leasing to heliski companies (including RK Heliski) in the now,” said Mr. Gallagher. winter, as well as construction work, particularly for the hydro-electric industry, and Coldstream decided to organize the training exercise, in part, because the com- air taxi services.

By Steve Hubrecht Pioneer Staff

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4 • The Columbia Valley Pioneer

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ceived a report that a vehicle was keyed while parked in the underground parking lot of one of the hotels in Panorama Mountain Resort. Police are asking that if anyone saw someone committing this mischief or has heard of someone bragging about it, they call the detachment or Crimestoppers.

• During the evening hours of Monday, December 26th, Columbia Valley RCMP received a report that someone had hit an elk on Highway 93/95 in Fairmont Hot Springs. The driver was operating a Hyundai Tuscon north when they hit the elk by the Dutch Creek Bridge. The driver sustained minor injury as they hit their head on the steering wheel.

• The past week saw about 27 motor vehicle incidents, most of which were related to the icy road conditions.

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Over the last week the RCMP in Columbia Valley responded to about 65 calls for service. Below is a small sample of those calls: • During the afternoon of Wednesday, December 21st, Columbia Valley RCMP received a report of a possible rifle gunshot within the municipal village limits of Radium Hot Springs. The complainant reported that the shot sounded like a high-powered rifle and that it was shot outside. Police attended the area and spoke with a construction company that was working in the area. They confirmed they were doing construction inside one of the new condos and were in the process of hanging drywall. They were using a screw gun, which emits quite a bang. Nevertheless, police still did extensive patrols of the area, but could not find anything else that may have made the noise.

• On the morning of Thursday, December 22nd, an employee of the Kootenay Saving Bank called to report some damage to one of their bank machines at Kootenay Savings in Invermere. Police are in the process of obtaining some video surveillance and following up with this evidence.

• On Friday, December 23rd at about 5 p.m., Columbia Valley RCMP received a call of a motor vehicle collision involving three vehicles at the corner of Athalmer Road and Lakeview Drive in Invermere. No injuries were reported. RCMP members attended the collision to conduct their investigation and assist with moving vehicles as the vehicles were not drivable after the collision. It was determined that the driver of a blue Volkswagen Jetta was driving east on Athalmer Road when they collided into a blue Infinity heading west on Athalmer Road and attempting to turn left onto Lakeview Drive. The driver turning left did not see the oncoming traffic and proceeded to turn left. This collision resulted into both vehicles sliding into another car that was sitting at a red light. The driver of the left turning vehicle was given a violation ticket for Fail to Yield to a vehicle on a green light.

• On Christmas Day, Columbia Valley RCMP re-

Cracking down on seat belts!

The New Year will bring a new traffic enforcement initiative to the valley. Every month, the Columbia Valley RCMP will be taking enhanced traffic enforcement action on a particular traffic offence, among the other traffic enforcement actions. In January 2017, we will be looking for drivers and passengers not wearing seat belts — there is no excuse for not having one on. If you chose not to wear one and are confronted by the RCMP, you will be looking at a fine of $167. Please wear one; it is for your own safety. Wearing a seatbelt is one of the most important ways drivers and passengers can protect themselves. Your chances of surviving a vehicle crash increase dramatically if you are wearing a seat belt properly. Seatbelts reduce the risk of occupants striking the interior of the vehicle, colliding with other passengers, or being ejected. Wearing seatbelts in B.C. is also the law. Every seat used in your vehicle must have a seat belt. What happens if you or a passenger is not wearing a seat belt (aside from the fine)? A 150-pound adult will collide with other occupants, strike the inside of the vehicle or get thrown from the car with the same force as the weight of a 3.5-ton truck. An unrestrained 25-pound child will be thrown forward with the same force as the weight of 1,200-pound baby elephant.

Please wear your seat belt.

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The Columbia Valley Pioneer • 5

Whiteway manager encourages users to get out while it’s good

By Steve Hubrecht Pioneer Staff Skaters, cross-country skiers, fat tire bikers, winter trail runners and many others got an early Christmas present with the world-famous Lake Windermere Whiteway open and in excellent shape by December 25th.

Whiteway-creating conditions — cold temperatures and calm nights — for the two weeks or so prior to Christmas Day were about as ideal as they can get and Whiteway maintainer Brad Kitching had cleared the skate track a few days before Christmas, with the ice ultra-smooth in some places and bit windblown in others, making for generally great skating.

Heading right out on Christmas Day, Mr. Kitching kept up his unflagging efforts to groom the classic and skate ski tracks, leaving an extra present for valley residents and visitors who headed out on the lake.

Mr. Kitching concurred that things could hardly have

turned out better, telling The Pioneer on December 27th that “the only thing that messed it up was that Mother Nature sent out her wind demons to blow things up.”

He added that during the night of Boxing Day (Monday, December 26th), the classic cross country ski tracks were mostly blown in.

“By Christmas Day, everything was going, aside from the Rushmere end, but I haven’t been able to get there since the wind event,” he said.

According to Mr. Kitching, the ice covering the lake in most places is just barely at 12 inches (the thickness at which he can take the Toby Creek Nordic Ski Society’s Kubota grooming tractor out), although there are a few exceptions.

“It’s not 12 inches between Timber Ridge and Fort Point right now, although the ice is thick enough in that area that I am able to drive my little truck through there,” he said, adding that hopefully the ice will thicken up there soon. “The Kubota really does a much better job than my truck does.”

How the Whiteway will shape up in the next few weeks in anybody’s guess, according to Mr. Kitching.

“It all depends on the conditions. My words of wisdom are get out while it’s good. It can change pretty fast, so don’t delay,” he said, pointing out that the temperature had at one point on Tuesday risen to 1 C. “As of right now, the wind has actually been helpful in some places; it has blown the ice quite clear on northsouth sections of the Whiteway. It’s blown in on the eastwest sections, but on the north-south sections, it’s created a sand-blasted clear black ice with a really good surface. It’s better than I can do with the sweeper.”

The Nordic Club’s ice skating trail and cross country ski tracks on Lake Lillian are also now up and running.

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6 • The Columbia Valley Pioneer

December 30, 2016

PERSPECTIVE

Reflection

Historical Lens

By Dean Midyette Pioneer Publisher For me, looking into a mirror is scary at the best of times, but the days that linger between Christmas and New Years call for us to gaze not at ourselves, but over our shoulders and reflect on the year that is quickly drawing to a close.

As I was driving into work this week, the radio seemed filled with comments from those who can’t wait for 2016 to end. If we allow ourselves to dwell on international stories, like the ongoing slaughter of innocents in Syria or the divisiveness of the U.S. presidential election and the Brexit vote in the UK, there are certainly some worrisome signs.

The Pioneer, however, is a local publication with an eye — not dissimilar to Sauron’s — that focuses locally.

Look around; we live in one of the most beautiful places on Earth. Mordor, this is not.

This year, as in years past, our communities and the people who have chosen to live here shone. The word must be getting out as the number of students is on the rise, businesses are thriving, the new multi-use centre continues to take shape, and the snow at our award winning ski hills is spectacular.

What makes our community unique is the people — our families, friends and neighbours. When we walk down the street, people greet each other… by name. We have a vibrant arts community and an incredible number of service groups that are well supported by volunteers and donors. And when an event or fundraiser is held, we show up — boy, do we show up! We also chose to solve disagreements with respectful dialogue, with an eye on common objectives and that which could divide us.

This Christmas season, I was inundated with stories about people who chose to offer support to those less fortunate. There were staff members celebrating Christmas that chose to give to a family in need, Christmas Star shopping spree winner Robyn Oliver taking some of her winnings and donating to the Food Bank, and a gentleman who heard about someone in need of a winter coat, someone he’d never met, and the perfect Christmas gift arrived a day later. When fortunes turn, we are always there to step up and give back.

So bring it on 2017 — we’re ready to celebrate another fantastic year!

Bundled up In this image from the 1920s, a group of 16 people, many in their winter fur coats, are gathered on the porch steps of the Pitts home in Windermere (last week’s Pioneer historical feature story mentioned the Pitts family). If you have any more information, email us at info@columbiavalleypioneer.com. Photo (A619) courtesy of the Windermere District Historical Society

Peeved with polarizing politics Dear Editor: B.C. is a diverse province and rarely is a one-sizefits-all approach to social or environmental issues fair or wanted. For instance, recently the NDP announced they would, if elected, shut down the grizzly bear hunt.

This activist agenda was put into action by NDP politicos to polarize individuals and to garner an emotional vote response. It is also the front end of an activistdriven anti-hunting campaign to shut down hunting province-wide, with trapping to follow.

Some folks are against hunting period; others are against trophy hunting. Yet others say the trophy is incidental to meat hunting. However, if you added up what people spend on hunting against what one could buy from the local market for the same dollars,

it is clear that sustenance arguments don’t hold much water. Most hunters hunt because they enjoy getting outdoors with a sense of purpose, the camaraderie, the chase, a wilderness experience, the meat, and for the competitive aspect of the sport. Every hunting outdoor club runs a “trophy” competition for the biggest antlers or horns.

The grizzly bear — a made icon — is easily targeted by anti-hunting activists because it seems to be only about the rug. Next on the NDP anti-hunting agenda will be the black bear, the cougar, the mountain sheep and mountain goat; after all, there is relatively little meat on these animals compared to a thousand-pound Hereford.

I am OK with hunting or trapping for meat, Continued on page 10 . . .

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 30, 2016

The Columbia Valley Pioneer • 7

Jumbo: a poem After 2024 What awaits us behind the door?

Is it a secret Just because we don’t speak it?

The gerbil hops aboard his wheel Until it drops off its keel And when waters really does no longer

Submitted by Sharon Dulong By 2030 A world that’s already dirty Might meet its goals And be real per’Dy If those goals are not met Then the stage will be set For the oceans to be going And land no longer good for sowing Water from a bottle Let’s just pull the throttle And plastic-wrap the planet Our pale blue dot is worse off than we thought We will reach the tipping point of our denial By 2020 the verdict is set and there’s no more trial By 2030 there won’t be enough water A sad day for children; each mother and father We think of what we must do Knowing we live in a bit of a zoo Where the keepers dummy us down And keep us performing like a clown But the show will be over When the audience is sober Then our tears will be a source of water In a world that’s cast over Our last Bills of Rights Perhaps it is hopeless to fight By 2040 each country will be bankrupt Then — we’ll learn what it means to be corrupt By 2050, it’ll be the ocean All that plastic we’ve set in motion All that plastic is choking the plankton Who sustain the ocean which should be a sanctum And in the 2050s There’ll be no more fishees The polar bears AND seals — goners As we continue to live longer What for?

All the oceans will by then be gone There’ll be no question of a greener lawn. Or food.

By 2030 this world will be very dirty By 2050 this world will be dry No longer will we hear the whales cry No longer will it be worthwhile to even try And wonder what it was the whales were telling us Us — the living hope that they might trust We don’t have to let things go bust

flow

Will there be ice and snow?

What will we, have to show?

Perhaps, the effort required isn’t great Perhaps just a slight shift from our present state Consumers are we A disposable economy Until we become disposable And our acquired knowledge will simply go Out the window Into fire as kindle When actually the solution is within our reach Let the children teach It is them that know It is them who can show Everything is backwards The clock is unwinding Humanity declining Ages 20 to 30 know things will get worse And that it is not they who hold the purse If change is possible Emissions must be reduced to half From 2021 to 2030 We are not even aiming for success So occupied are we within our own nests Do we have to accept failure?

Is our adaptability our saviour?

Or will our ability to adapt Be what holds us in this trap?

Will it prove to be our tragic flaw?

That brings us only so far Eventually being the death of us all?

Reversibility is a possibility Until 2020 Then even those with perfect vision Will experience nuclear fission “We have seen the enemy…

And it is us.” (Pogo) After 2020 we go bust It’s not that far away What are you doing for lunch today?

Giving ground to seeds that were sown A long time ago, way before the poem There are possibilities The earth still has sanctities Jumbo — is one of them.

8 • The Columbia Valley Pioneer

December 30, 2016

Return to heaven: a Louisiana couple’s story Happy New Year!

Join us for a lovely evening with Roasted Beet with Crème Fraiche Or House Caesar Salad, followed by “Beef Tenderloin Chanterelle” and “Harvest Strudel”

3 course $ 42 Entrée $ 27 Full menu availabe.

Radium Hot Springs • 250-347-6553

Season’s Greetings From the Village of Radium Hot Springs Council and Staff Please join us on New Year’s Eve as the Village is celebrating 26 years as a municipality.

Festivities begin at 3 p.m. at the skating rink on Stanley Street and will end with a fireworks display at the Springs Driving Range, 6:30 p.m.

Information regarding the new Radium Community Hall will be on display, and Mayor and Council will be available to answer your questions.

Free hot dogs, hot chocolate, chili and birthday cake provided.

Donations to the fire department are gratefully accepted.

O B J E C T I V E , C R E AT I V E ,

I N F O R M AT I V E !

Read us online at:

www.columbiavalleypioneer.com

N E W S PA P E R

E-mail: info@columbiavalleypioneer.com Phone: 250-341-6299

front porch, holding a grocery bag of clothes above their head with Sharillyn’s purse around When James and SharilJames’ neck. Lucky for them, lynn Aucoin stood in front of it was only minutes of standing FUn in the sUn their home in Baton Rouge on on two cast iron stools — the Tuesday, August 16th, all they last of their items that hadn’t 3 could do was cry. floated away — before a rescue “We just stood there and boat floated to their porch to cried,” Sharillyn told The Piotake them to safety. neer, remembering the day they In total, the catastrophic 23 returned to their home after the flood caused as much as $8.7 flood forced her and thousands billion in damages to Baton of others in Louisiana to flee Rouge homes with 134,000 their homes for safety. “I’m still households registering for aid.

Pull-out emotional about it.”

The flood, known as the worst HOME A breath of fresh air.

“You would see your neighnatural disaster since Hurricane bours and you would go across Sandy in 2012, took the lives of the street and just hug one an13 people in its wake.

CAPTURED ON CAMERA — Back in July 2010, other and be so thankful that After the water receded, a Pioneer photographer snapped this photograph of each was alive and was not inJames and Sharillyn, along with Louisiana couple Sharilynn and James Aucoin kayajured,” James said. “You would thousands of others, returned king the Columbia River while on vacation in the literally cry in each other’s arms to their homes to try to salvage valley. The photograph is one of their few prized beat the devastation.” what they could of their relongings rescued from the flood that destroyed their It was only two days earlier maining belongings. home in Baton Rouge in August.

File image when the skies opened with torAt the ages of 74 with their rential rain, peppering the Louisiana capital, home to over home in ruins, they decided it was the perfect opportu200,000 residents. For James and Sharillyn, who had lived nity to relocate closer to their son in nearby Curryville. in their home in Baton Rouge for 45 years, this wasn’t the Nearly two months after leaving Baton Rouge, they had worst rain they had experienced and thus they thought little already found a new home for themselves. Left behind in of it as it continued to fall outside their home.

Baton Rouge were photo albums filled with memories of Even the news reporters on the local TV stations led their children and grandchildren along with jewelry and them to believe there was nothing to worry about with the vehicles they would never get to use or see again. nearby river expecting to crest at two inches. They thought What did remain were a few items that James was they were OK. able to get into the attic before the waters submerged their Slowly, though, the water began to rise. As the water home. Among them, one of the most cherished items in began to flood the streets, James and Sharillyn began to the Auccoin household, was a copy of the Columbia Valley pick things up in their house and move them onto beds, Pioneer from July 2nd, 2010. On the cover was a picture of silently praying the water would stop rising. By 3 a.m. on James and Sharillyn canoeing down the Columbia River on Sunday morning though, the Aucoins were standing in one of their annual vacations to the Columbia Valley. several feet of water with more still on the way.

“When you ran our picture of my wife and I canoeing “The water was coming up extremely fast and my wife on the Columbia River (on the cover), we had that framed was trying to hand things to me to put up in our attic and that’s one of the items I pulled off the wall and put in to preserve some items, but it seemed like as soon as she the attic that did not get wet,” James said. “The love that started moving things from one level to get in the attic, the my wife and I have for each other, it was so symbolic in water was up to that point,” James said. that picture that they took.”

Pictures were taken off the walls and jewelry was gathSince 1990, the couple has made their way to the valley ered in a frantic rush as the water increased to hip level for once a year for vacations, each year falling more in love with Sharillyn by 7 a.m. that morning. the scenery and culture that the area cultivates.

“You just sort of walk around in a daze watching it “It’s kind of a neat feeling that we love it up there so happen and think, ‘What can I do?’ and you reach the much with the space and the air and everything,” James point where all you want to do is say, ‘Please Lord, let me said, speaking from their new home in Curryville. “The get out of here’,” she said. people are so nice up there and friendly. There’s something After struggling to open a door to get outside, James about the Columbia Valley, the Purcell Mountains, and the and Sharillyn waded through four feet of water to their Continued on page 10 . . .

By Eric Elliott Pioneer Staff

July 2, 2010 Vol. 7/Issue 27

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The Columbia Valley Pioneer • 1 July 2, 2010

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Part-time Fairmont residents Sharilynn and James Aucoin set out for a kayaking adventure along the Columbia River this week. Warm weather will make this weekend perfect for recreating in the Columbia Valley. See the Play ‘N’ Stay pull-out inside this issue for tips on enjoying it.

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December 30, 2016

The Columbia Valley Pioneer • 9

Life is great At Bighorn Meadows Resort! our amenity and Welcome Centre to make sure there is more than enough space for all to enjoy.”

Additions to those amenities will include: an additional large hot tub, increased deck New development at Bighorn Meadows Resort has us excited with anticipation for our amenities expansion along with phase 11 that is scheduled for completion area for pool/hot tub area, fitness facility and an owner’s lounge for private gatherings. “We early 2017. “We are a growing resort community and the time has come to expand are very excited to see our development grow, and we recognize it is necessary to expand our amenities to accommodate that growth. Sales and business have been great this our amenities for existing and future owners at Bighorn,” said Mr. Trapp. “Providing a comyear,” said Randy Trapp, president of Luxury Resorts West, the parent company of munity where families or friends can create memorable experiences is what we do best! We Bighorn Meadows Resort. “Our first nine phases are completely sold out and our focus on high quality construction, efficient design and low maintenance finishes in every project we do and it clearly shows at Bighorn Meadows Resort. Just ask our 700 owners!” new Townhouse Residences are selling fast.”

When owners are not using their vacation homes, the weeks may be rented out Phase 11 construction began in September 2016 and is a continuation of the new townhouse-style resort community integrated into one of the most prestigious through Bighorn Meadows Resort’s rental management company, True Key Hotels resort communities in the Columbia Valley. Only 44 of these efficient, luxurious & Resorts. Or, if an owner would like to travel to some place a little warmer over the winter months, they may do so by depositing weeks from Bighorn into Interval residences will be available at Bighorn.

“Initial interest from purchasers has been overwhelming,” commented Mr. Trapp. International, one of our exclusive exchange affiliation programs. This program pro“We have exceeded our sales targets for the year and are planning to start phase 12 as vides owners’ access to thousands of top-rated resorts around the world and, with Bighorn Meadow’s Premier rating, owner soon as possible in the spring.” exchange possibilities are optimized.

He went on to say: “It’s a simple formuAll come with a 10-year homeownla: build quality vacation homes, in spectacer warranty and mortgage financing is ular locations, at a well-managed property, available at rates as low as 2.24 per cent. and price it fair, and they will sell.” The imContact us today and find out what you maculate resort community amenities curare missing! Call 1-888-766-9637, email rently include: an outdoor pool, hot tub, info@bighornmeadows.ca, visit www. playground, beautifully landscaped walking bighornmeadows.ca or visit our new paths and a knowledgably-staffed Welcome show home now open at the resort.

Centre with concierge service.

Learn more about our Christmas “In order to keep up with our grow- BIG PLANS — Bighorn Meadows Resort is excited with anticipation for expansion with Photo submitted. Cash of up to $10,000! ing family of owners, we are expanding phase 11 scheduled for completion in early 2017.

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10 • The Columbia Valley Pioneer

December 30, 2016 . . . ‘Return’ from page 8

Fairmont Hot Springs’ very own!

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Rocky Mountains on either side of you and knowing that mighty Columbia River starts just south of Invermere; it’s just kind of like the beginning of heaven.”

On each of the couple’s journeys to the valley, they make sure to do a canoe trip from Fairmont to Invermere in addition to joining in festivals such as Radium’s classic CHERISHED MEMORIES — Standing outside the remains of their home, James Aucoin holds up the memorcar show held every fall.

One of their favourite ibilia he and his wife Sharilynn collected during their trips valley destinations, though, to the Canadian Rockies that they were able to save from is the Thrift Shop located in the waters that submerged their house. Photo submitted vival hall,” where, “we’re going to put up a downtown Invermere. James said he’s collected numerous collectibles lot of art work that doesn’t look as good as it from his trips inside the famous thrift used to, but it will remind us of what we’ve store, including a ceramic bear that he still been through and how far we’ve come since the flood and the fact that we made it and holds onto today.

Just like the last 25 years, James and that things are going to be OK.” Although James and Sharillyn weren’t Sharillyn had plans to return to the Columbia Valley for a vacation in 2016, but able to make it back to the valley in 2016, had to cancel those plans, along with two they say they are grateful to be alive with other trips, because of their chaotic life the opportunity for another return to after the flood. James said they are both heaven in 2017.

“You can survive a lot more than you saddened they won’t be able to make the journey north this year to their own ver- think you can survive and it may put you to the test, but when you come out on the sion of heaven.

“Y’all are so lucky to be living in the other end of it healthy and whole and in a Columbia Valley, it’s one of the most beau- new home and everything’s going be OK, tiful places I’ve ever seen in my whole life,” you just have to accept some loss,” Sharillyn he said. “We go there and we feel like we’re said. “Life has some losses in it and we had going to heaven and we’re able to come back huge losses in this — every stick of furniture and not many people can go to heaven and we owned except two pieces was destroyed come back. But in our minds, we’re going to — but that’s just stuff. It’s not your being, heaven and we’re coming back afterwards.” it’s not your life, it’s not your means of livThe framed newspaper cover will find ing. Your means of living is your family and its new home on the walls of their new each other and we had that and you just home in what Sharillyn is calling, “the sur- have to go on through adversity.” . . . ‘Peeved’ from page 6 enjoyment or furs; participation in and witnessing of a symbiotic relationship with the land reveals to people the longterm impacts of habitat destruction and the importance of conservation.

Although I would not care to shoot a bear given the opportunity, legal permits and sustainability issues having been taken into consideration, I believe it would be hypocritical of me to say that others should not. The NDP antihunting platform panders to a small but vocal number of anti-hunting activists rather than to fairness or reason.

Partnering with anti-hunting philistineism is a cheap if not desperate political

gambit that intends to polarize cooperative relationships.

Rather than having to tackle the much tougher human issues like urban and valley sprawl, health care costs and delivery, infrastructure maintenance and rebuilds, climate change, social services, habitat sustainability and jobs, the NDP is banking on emotional pogroms based on activist agendas that turn neighbour against neighbour. Is this the type of election tactics with which we want to build community? Is this the type people we are? Or are we being manipulated?

Peter Christensen Radium Hot Springs

December 30, 2016

The Columbia Valley Pioneer 11 Page•11

WHAT’S HAPPENING IN THE COLUMBIA VALLEY

MUSIC • VISUAL ARTS • DINING • BAR SCENE • ENTERTAINMENT • PERFORMANCE ARTS OPEN YEAR-ROUND A new music fest offering is coming to a Columbia Valley near you — Panorama Mountain Resort is hosting the inaugural High Notes Music Festival in March featuring some serious talent and big names like (clockwise from top) Jim Byrnes, The Lion The Bear The Fox and Barney Bentall, and ticket sales are already underway.

For full details, see the story on page 12.

Photos submitted

PAGE 14

CHRISTMAS STAR

Hittin’ the High Notes PAGE 28

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

Tim Williams live at Pynelogs

Guitarist of the Year 2012 Calgary Blues Music Association love it live Concert series - sat. Jan. 28th - 6 pm Visit columbiavalleyarts.com for our current events calendar, or call 250-342-4423

12 • The Columbia Valley Pioneer

December 30, 2016

Panorama hits a high note with new festival There is also the option to listen to Lion Bear Fox, Speed Control and Leeroy Stagger at 7:30 p.m. at the Pepsi Mainstage (in the Great Hall). Tickets Panorama Mountain Resort is are $40 each. To cap things off on the hosting for the first time a music festival festival’s first day, Elk Run & Riot and this coming March and tickets are now Shred Kelly will perform at the T-Bar available for purchase. Taking place and Grill starting at 10:30 p.m. with March 17th to 19th, festival organiztickets for these shows available closer ers have packed the lineup with some to the date, priced at $20. of Canada’s best independent artists “There is some serious talent here sure to fill the resort with the rhythmic and for a younger crowd this will be a sounds of blues, folk, rock and pop. really awesome night followed by Elk “For the lineup, we’ve selected some of our favourites, plus some of Run & Riot, and Shred Kelly. I definitely recommend snapping up tickets this country’s best up-and-comers,” said HIGH TIMES — Local band Small Town Dirtbags are part of the star-studded lineup for the early,” said Ms. Amaro.

Panorama’s manager of signature events On Saturday, January 18th, music and partnership marketing Clarissa new High Notes Music Festival that Panorama Mountain Resort is introducing in March.

Photo submitted will fill the mountain air starting with Amaro. “With legendary musicians Jim Byrnes and Barney Bentall headlining the weekend and Shred Kelly, 100 Mile House, back-to-back free Apres Sessions, first at 2:30 p.m. on the Great Hall Patio and then at 4:30 p.m. in the T-Bar and Grill. Artists for these sessions have yet to be announced.

Leeroy Stagger and more gracing the set list, it’s going to be a big festival.”

Later Saturday evening, Leeroy Stagger, Jim Byrnes and Barney Bentall will perTickets for the festival came out on December 27th, and feature a variety of opform on the Pepsi Mainstage. Tickets are $70 but there are also VIP tickets ($150) tions to choose from for potential festival-goers.

On Friday, January 17th, the first performance (yet to be named) will be at a free available to the Barney Bentall and Jim Byrnes show, which include access to a stage “Apres Session” at the T-Bar and Grill at 4:30 p.m. Later on at 7:30 p.m., husband-wife front section, wine, table service and gourmet appetizers all night long.

Capping Saturday evening off at 10:30 p.m. will be performances from local faduo 100 Mile House will play an intimate live performance at Monticola over a fourcourse menu and wine pairing specially prepared by head chef Michael Payne. Only 80 vourite Small Town Dirtbags and Speed Control at the T-Bar and Grill.

Continued on page 15 . . . tickets are available for this and are priced at $100 per ticket.

By James Rose Special to The Pioneer

Copper Point Christmas Countdown

Sunday

Monday

Tuesday

Wednesday

27

28

29

4

5

Idea Complimentary 6 TakeHoliday your parents 7 Family Swim

$15 Meazer’s (Meal Caesar)

11 $15

Meazer’s (Meal Caesar)

18

Outdoor Activities 2 pm – 5 pm

12

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

Our Tomato Soup is Gluten & Dairy Free?

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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)

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Holiday Idea Go Skating on our Lake Windermere White Way trail

26 African

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20

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Holiday Idea Build a snowman with your family

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Enter our Take a selfie with our Bear Contest

12 “drinks” of Christmas cocktail special

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Friday

Saturday

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2

3

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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?

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

SHUTTLE SERVICE

Contest closes January 9th

Call 250-341-4000

December 30, 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.

Friday, December 30th • 1 p.m.: Duplicate Bridge at Invermere Seniors Hall, $2. Everyone welcome. Every Friday.

• 1 p.m.: Canasta cards at Canal Flats Seniors Hall every Friday.

• 3:30 - 5 p.m.: Skating Party at Fairmont Hot Springs Resort’s skating rink near the main lodge. Bring your own skates as rentals are not available.

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

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

Saturday, December 31st • 10 a.m.: Lego for all ages at the Radium Public Library every Saturday.

• 11 a.m.: Preschool Story Time at the Invermere Public Library with stories, songs, and crafts. Every Saturday.

• 3 p.m.: Radium Hot Springs New Year’s Eve festivities at the skating rink on Stanley St. with fireworks display at The Springs driving range at 6:30 p.m. Free hot dogs, hot chocolate, chili and birthday cake. Donations to the fire department gratefully accepted.

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

• 7 - 9 p.m.: Fairmont Hot Springs Resort’s New Year’s Eve Tropical Pool Party at the Public Natural Mineral Hot Springs: fun for all ages.

• 9 p.m.: New Year’s Eve Party at Bear’s Paw Bar & Grill in Fairmont Hot Springs Resort with music by DJ Wild Bill. Free champagne at midnight.

• 9 - close: New Year’s Eve party at Copper Point Resort in the Quartz Room. Live music with Eli & Marty Beingessner from 9 - 11 p.m. and DJ Wild Bill from 11 p.m. till close.

• 10 p.m.: New Year’s Eve Fireworks at the Historic Bath House in Fairmont Hot Springs Resort.

Monday, January 2nd • 10 a.m.: Senior Singalong Group meets every Monday at Garden Village.

• 7 p.m.: Bingo at the Canal Flats Civic Centre, 1st and 3rd Monday of each month.

Tuesday, January 3rd • 1:30 p.m.: Carpet Bowling at Canal Flats Seniors Hall every Tuesday.

Wednesday, January 4th • 8 a.m.: Radium Hot Springs Sunrise Rotary meets for breakfast every 1st and 3rd Wednesday from November thru March at Higher Ground Cafe.

• 11:45 a.m.: The Rotary Club of Invermere meets every Wednesday at the Curling Rink.

• 1 p.m.: Duplicate Bridge at Invermere Senior’s Hall, $2. Everyone welcome. Every Wednesday.

• 7 p.m.: Card night at Canal Flats Seniors Hall every Wednesday.

Thursday, January 5th • 10:30 a.m.: Preschool Story Time at the Invermere Public Library with stories, songs, and crafts. Every Thursday.

• 1 p.m.: Play Cribbage at Invermere Seniors Hall every Thursday.

• 1:15 p.m.: Play Cribbage at Canal Flats Seniors Hall every Thursday.

• 4:30 - 6 p.m.: Summit Youth Centre Chef-It-Up. Every Thursday. Learn to make delicious food on a budget. Call 250-342-3033 or visit their Facebook page for more information.

• 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. Everyone welcome. $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, January 6th • 1 p.m.: Duplicate Bridge at Invermere Seniors Hall, $2. Everyone welcome. Every Friday.

• 1 p.m.: Canasta cards at Canal Flats Seniors Hall every Friday.

• 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.

• 4 - 7 p.m.: Summit Youth Centre Game Show Night.

Call 250-342-3033 or visit their Facebook page for more information.

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

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

• 7 - 10 p.m.: Fresh Fridays Open Mic at Pynelogs.

Showcasing young talent from the valley. All ages, licensed bar. First Friday of every month Oct. thru June.

• 7:30 p.m.: Columbia Valley Rockies host Fernie Ghostriders at Eddie Mountain Arena.

Saturday, January 7th • 10 a.m.: Lego for all ages at the Radium Public Library every Saturday.

• 11 a.m.: Preschool Story Time at the Invermere Library with stories, songs and crafts. Every Saturday.

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

• 7 - 10 p.m.: Summit Youth Centre Fresh Film Nights - newly released films or crowd favorites every Saturday.

• 7:30 p.m.: Enjoy fast-paced hockey as the Columbia Valley Rockies host Kimberley Dynamiters at Eddie Mountain Arena.

Monday, January 9th • 5 - 9 p.m.: The Banff World Tour, hosted by the Toby Creek Nordic Ski Club, is being held at the Invermere Community Hall. Doors open at 5 p.m. with pizza, salad and refreshments available on a cash basis. Film screenings begin at 6 p.m. Tickets are $25 and available at Crazy Soles or Lusti’s Ski Shop at Panorama. Call 250342-7397 for more information.

Friday, January 13th • 3 - 5 p.m.: Summit Youth Centre Outdoor Games (weather permitting). Call 250-342-3033 for more info.

Saturday, January 14th • 12 p.m.: 16th Annual Snow Golf Tournament on the lake at Kinsmen Beach. Get your tickets now, call 250342-5557. Registration will run between 11 a.m. and noon at The Station Neighbourhood Pub.

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.

• Closed January 1st and 2nd.

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

14 • The Columbia Valley Pioneer DISTRICT OF INVERMERE

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

NOTICE TO ALL DOG OWNERS All dogs over the age of four months residing in the District of Invermere require an annual dog license, from January 1st to December 31st. Licensing allows Animal Control Services to contact you as soon as possible if your animal has been impounded or if the animal has been injured as a result of traffic or as a result of other causes.

If you live within the District of Invermere and own a dog, please drop by the municipal office at your earliest convenience to pick up a dog tag. Fees are as follows:

UNSPAYED FEMALE DOG ............................$35 UNNEUTERED MALE DOG ...........................$35 SPAYED FEMALE DOG .................................$15 NEUTERED MALE DOG ................................$15 Spaying / Neutering We encourage all pet owners to have their dogs spayed or neutered to assist in promoting the health of your animal and to minimize the potential for unwanted pups in the community. As an incentive to spay or neuter your dog, the various license and impound fees for spayed or neutered animals are less than if your animal is not spayed or neutered.

For dog control issues within the municipality, please contact our Dog Control Officer at 250-342-1707.

As we now know, plastic is not so fantastic. Up to a trillion plastic bags per year are used around the world. While most of them go to landfill sites where, scientists estimate, takes up to 1,000 years to break down, millions still end up in waterways, trees, and in our oceans where it eventually ends up in stomachs of fish and birds. We encourage you to use biodegradable dog waste bags, which are available at various sites throughout town.

December 30, 2016

The View Restaurant opens doors year-round

By Eric Elliott Pioneer Staff Food connoisseurs in the Columbia Valley should get excited as there will be another option to choose from this winter with The View Restaurant located at Copper Point Golf Course deciding to extend its hours beyond the summer season.

After The View opened its doors this year in March for the first time, Copper Point food and beverage manager Monica Fisher said the decision to extend their hours into the winter season was made to make it easier to keep integral staff such as chef Thijs Boursma on board to build a consistently excellent product year-round.

“We’re lucky in the summer because we obviously have heavy traffic with the golf season, but I think also in previous seasons we’ve had problems with quality and just consistency,” she said. “So it’s regaining the confidence of people knowing that the food is amazing no matter the time of year.”

Ms. Fisher said some of the consistently favourite dishes through the summer were their butter chicken, which she said is unique at The View because of its use of a thigh and leg rather than a breast, and that consumers

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have been delightfully happy with it.

Another benefit of The View, she said, is that everything is made from scratch in-house, which customers have been pleased to hear while on their visits to the restaurant.

“We know exactly what’s in the food,” Ms. Fisher said. “Everything is made in-house so we know what the ingredients are and it also just gives the opportunity for people to experience nice meals without having that stress worrying about what’s in the food.”

Mainly, though, The View offers restaurant-goers in the valley another place to eat during the quiet winter season.

“We’re new, we’re fresh and the food is consistently awesome,” she said. “It’s very rare we have any complaints and it’s just an extra opportunity to try something new in the area. As a local, there are a lot of great options in town but as someone who likes to eat out a lot, I do tire of some of my options so this is just an extra one for the community to try.”

The View is open for reservations seven days a week with happy hour from 5 to 6 p.m. with nightly specials running from Friday to Monday each week. For more information visit www.copperpointgolf.com/dine or call 250-341-3392 ext. 227.

The owners of MaxWell Realty Invermere would like to welcome our newest member Steve Henderson to our team.

Steve has been a longtime valley resident involved in the Fairmont Hot Springs area for more than 30 years. With an extensive background in resort sales and property development, he looks forward to bringing his passion and experience to valley residents and visitors alike.

Working out of our Fairmont office, Steve can reached at 250-341-5128, or via email at swhenderson2011@gmail.com

Maxwell Realty Invermere/Fairmont 1214 - 7th Ave. Invermere • 250-341-6044

www.maxwellrealtyinvermere.ca

December 30, 2016

The Columbia Valley Pioneer • 15

A new year means more than you think

By Brian Fenerty Pioneer Columnist New Year’s time may seem as though we have come once more a full orbit ‘round our sun — but, really, it is much more.

Our sun itself speeds around our Milky Way’s centre, albeit at a big distance, and takes us and our fellow planets along on its journey. And the journey even weaves up and down, and in and out. The weaving is small if we could look at it from outside our galaxy, but it is actually significant. At some points, comets in our solar system get disrupted and they, in greater numbers than usual, may swing toward Earth.

At times, tho’ very far apart, we can go in and out of moving condensed regions of star formations called the galactic spiral arms.

We may even go by stars moving at different speeds; maybe even by superno-

vae that blow bubbles of thinner regions, such as the “Local Bubble” we are currently in; and even move through regions of hot, fast burning blue stars, such as the Gould Belt of bright stars that ring us and especially sparkle in our winter night skies.

So a new year is no mere circling our sun, but a kind of stretched-out spiral exploring ever forward the vastness we live in as a tiny ocean blue-coloured speck.

Much like people’s lives, which often seem to just be going in circles, our Earth is actually always moving forward into possibilities.

No wonder we humans sense a new year as a time to contemplate where our lives are spinning and what new things can be.

It is not just in our hearts and hopes, but in the very realm above and around us.

Brian Fenerty is a member of the Royal Astronomical Society of Canada. Contact him at fenertyb@telus.net. . . . ‘Panorama’ from page 12

Tickets will be available for these performances closer to the concert date and will be $20.

Rounding out the festival is another free Apres Session on the Great Hall Patio starting at 11 a.m. on the Sunday.

“This is going to be a really big weekend and it’s super exciting that this is just the start. We plan to grow High Notes year after year and bring more live music to the Valley,” said Ms. Amaro.

For more information and to purchase tickets, visit www.panorama SHREDDIN’ THE PANO —The ever-popular Fernie band resort.com/High-Notes Shred Kelly is one of the musical acts featured at the new High or call the reservations team at 1-800-663-2929 Notes Music Festival in March at Panorama.

Photo submitted to book over the phone.

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16 • The Columbia Valley Pioneer

December 30, 2016

Knowledgeable local joins Maxwell team

By James Rose Special to The Pioneer Maxwell Realty Invermere is pleased to welcome to the team its newest real estate agent Steve Henderson.

As a longtime valley resident of Fairmont Hot Springs, along with his wife Adele, Mr. Henderson has an understanding and an immense appreciation of why the Columbia Valley is so special, and how as, Mr. Henderson likes to say, “it really does have it all.”

Extensively involved in resort sales and project development over the last 30 years, Mr. Henderson brings a wealth of practical experience to this new endeavour.

WARM WISHES MEILLEURS VOEUX

“It was a natural progression based on my background to take my life experience to the real estate industry,” said Mr. Henderson. “Working with the public is something I enjoy and I look forward to providing a valuable service to both sellers and buyers.”

For Mr. Henderson, it was an easy decision to join the Maxwell team. “They are a great bunch of people and have shown me a tremendous amount of professionalism and support. Starting with Daniel (Zurgilgen), Bernie (Raven) and Scott (Wallace), it very much has a tight-knit family feel from top to bottom.”

As for Mr. Henderson’s thoughts on the state of the Columbia Valley real estate market, all told he is bullish.

“Whether you’re talking to industry professionals, property owners or just visitors to the area, the consensus is we’re moving towards an exciting time in real estate for our local market,” said Mr. Henderson. “The phrase, ‘Come to the Warm Side of the Rockies’, is no exaggeration; people are discovering that we offer an amaz-

Special holiday hours – 2016

Horaire du temps des Fêtes 2016

Hot pool Dec. 23 Dec. 24 to Jan. 2

1 p.m. to 9 p.m.

10 a.m. to 9 p.m.

Piscine chaude Le 23 déc.

Du 24 déc. au 2 janv.

Cool pool Dec. 23 Dec. 24 to Jan. 1 Jan. 2

6 p.m. to 9 p.m.

10 a.m. to 9 p.m.

1 p.m. to 6 p.m.

Piscine froide Le 23 déc. de 18 h à 21 h Du 24 déc. au 1er janv. de 10 h à 21 h Le 2 janv. de 13 h à 18 h

Annual pass sale Enjoy unlimited entries to Radium, Miette and Banff Upper Hot Springs.

Adult Youth / senior Family

$ 119.99 $ 89.99 $ 329.99

Sale ends January 13, 2017.

250 347-9485

de 13 h à 21 h de 10 h à 21 h

Offre de laissezpasser annuel Profitez d’un nombre illimité d’entrées aux sources thermales Radium, Miette et Upper Hot Springs de Banff.

Adulte Jeune / aîné Famille

119,99 $ 89,99 $ 329,99 $

L’offre prend fin le 13 janvier 2017.

250 347-9485

Steve Henderson ing bang for the buck compared to other B.C. markets, with mountains, lakes, world class skiing, championship golf and much, much more. It’s no surprise.”

Mr. Henderson can be reached at 250-341-5128, or by email at swhenderson2011@gmail.com

December 30, 2016

The Columbia Valley Pioneer • 17

Cycling Society puts brakes on Barbour Rock trails proposal, seeking more feedback Submitted by the CVCS The Columbia Valley Cycling Society (CVCS), with over 200 members of mostly local residents, was born out of a desire to work co-operatively with all trail users and land managers of public and private lands.

When asked how the CVCS came into being back in 2006, one of its forwardthinking founders related how he chanced upon an altercation between a couple of downhill bikers and uphill hikers on Mt. Swansea. After calming the situation, he came away from the incident thinking there was a need to create a group to work in co-operation with government and outdoor recreation enthusiasts for the benefit of the entire community.

From its inception, the CVCS has developed excellent working relationships with groups that represent hikers, trail runners, Nordic skiers as well as Recreation Sites and Trails BC (RSTBC), which manages recreation access on Crown lands.

Though the CVCS does represent the local cycling community, it is a fact that all properly built and maintained cycling trails are also ideal for trail running, hiking, walking, snow shoeing, Nordic skiing and equestrian use; hence the term “multi-use” trails.

The CVCS seeks out every opportunity to work in concert with other user groups. Evidence of this includes its active membership in the Columbia Valley Greenways Trail Alliance (CVGTA) and the recent upgrades to the biking and hiking trails on Mt. Swansea.

Much work has been done in recent months to bring more legally-approved recreational trails to our community in the form of the proposed Barbour Rock Rec-

reational Trails, located above Lillian Lake on the Toby Benches.

There have been articles and letters to the editor voicing both support and opposition so the CVCS board has decided to slow the process to allow more opportunity for public engagement, stakeholder comment, and to consult with an additional biologist for another opinion on the wildlife/environmental assessment.

The desire of the CVCS is to see the Barbour Rock Recreational Trails proceed in a co-operative and sustainable fashion, that all wildlife/environmental concerns are addressed and mitigated, that stakeholder concerns are recognized and resolved, and that the Barbour trails become a recreational asset to the Columbia Valley for generations to come.

A Public Open House is planned for Friday, January 20th from 6 to 9 p.m. and Saturday, January 21st from 1 to 6 p.m. as an opportunity for residents of the Columbia Valley to become better acquainted with the Barbour Rock Recreational Trails proposal.

This will be an educational forum where the public can ask questions pertaining to the project, the referral process, view the maps and more.

The Open House will take place at Lions Hall located adjacent to the Columbia Valley Chamber of Commerce and is hosted in partnership between RSTBC, the CVGTA and the CVCS. The entire community is encouraged to attend to find out more about this outstanding recreational opportunity. If you care about the future of trails in the Columbia Valley, you should be there!

To review the Barbour Rock Recreational Trails Proposal in its entirety, please do so at:http://columbiavalleycyclingsociety.org/barbour-rock.

Did you Know?

- Invermere has approximately 60km of legally approved trails - Local trail usage has increased over 450% since 2014 - At full buildout, the proposed recreational trails will occupy just 16% of the area currently occupied by existing motorized trails & roads - Learn more at www.columbiavalleycyclingsociety.org/barbour-rock

BARBOUR ROCK RECREATIONAL TRAILS PUBLIC OPEN HOUSE

Recreational Trails provide an immense value to the community through the creation of healthy recreation opportunities to a wide demographic, increased tourism, and increased revenue for local businesses.

In the continuation of the public consultation process, we are actively seeking input from our community regarding this proposal. Your voice will help shape the face of recreation in the valley for future generations!

Date & Time: January 20, 6pm-9pm January 21, 1pm-6pm Location: Invermere Lions Hall

“Dedicated to growing the sport of cycling for the health and wealth of our community, through a sustainable trail network and respect of public and private land.” columbiavalleycyclingsociety.org

18 • The Columbia Valley Pioneer

December 30, 2016

- 2016 Year in Review development. The resort’s proponents charged that the duo’s friendship could have influenced Ms. Polak’s decision to declare Jumbo Glacier Resort as not substantially started, therefore causing the resort’s environmental assessment cerSuspected financial mismanagement shuts centre The closure of what appeared to be a highly success- tificate to lapse on June 18th, 2015.

Deer relocation project underway ful local Aboriginal addictions treatment centre shocked Cranbrook-based VAST Resource Solutions Inc and the Columbia Valley. The First Nations Health Authority (FNHA) ended its working partnership with the Three the provincial Ministry of Forests, Land and Natural ReVoices of Healing Society on Shuswap Indian Band land source Operations announced that an urban deer relocation due to a mismanagement of funds and problems within the trial study would start in several East Kootenay communities, including Invermere. organization’s board of directors.

The trial had been the subject of considerable discusThe decision followed a FNHA review into the society’s sion in the months prior, and was carried out by VAST. The finances, which raised questions about thousands of dollars launch of the project, even in pilot form, came after years of of allegedly personal expenses billed to the organization by back and forth on the urban deer issue between Kootenay executive director Delena Tikk. municipalities, a few municipalities from elsewhere in B.C., Jumbo Resort heads back to court Proponents of the proposed ski resort in the Jumbo and the provincial government.

Sunchaser class action lawsuit hearing begins Valley launched a legal case against provincial Minister of A test case in a longstanding class-action lawsuit filed Environment Mary Polak’s decision to not renew the envion behalf of thousands of Sunchaser Vacation Villas timeronmental assessment certificate for Jumbo Glacier Resort. share owners was heard court in Vancouver over a period of Glacier Resorts Ltd. filed documents with the B.C. Supreme Court that allege a controversial personal relation- multiple days. The case began in April 2013, when more ship between Ms. Polak and Ktunaxa Nation chair Kath- than 1,000 timeshare owners at Sunchaser Villas entered erine Tenesse, implying it may have hindered the project’s into a class-action lawsuit against Northmont in a dispute over a costly renovation project and the associated fees charged FEBRUARY— On Saturday, February 4th, the Canadian ski community had at the 18,950-unit villa comthe goal of making the most simultaneous snow angels in celebration of the 75th plex. The number of timeshare anniversary of Canadian Ski Patrol Day. Local organizers expected 100 or so owners in the case had since angels to show up and the actual turnout was triple that. Panorama was one of 46 grown to more than 3,200. A ski areas to participate and contributed 233 official snow angels to the total count ruling against the timeshare of 9,886, which unfortunately wasn’t enough to beat the world record of 15,851. owners was eventually delivered

Panorama Mountain Resort photo in March.

By Steve Hubrecht & Eric Elliott

January

February

Land claim confirmed The Akisqnuk First Nation announced plans to pressure the Government of Canada to honour a recent ruling that recognizes its claim over 3,000 acres of land in the Madias Tatley area, which is located east of the nation. The ruling was by

a Specific Claims Tribunal that reviewed the Akisqnuk reserve creation and additional land decisions that were never implemented.

The decision to exclude land in the Madias Tatley area from the Akisqnuk First Nation dates back over a century, and went against an 1884 recommendation by the Indian Reserve Commissioner and another in 1915 by the federalprovincial Royal Commission on Indian Affairs.

Lake Windermere Whiteway closes early Whiteway maintainer Brad Kitching pulled in the Toby Creek Nordic Ski Club’s Whiteway sign at Kinsmen Beach on Monday, February 23rd, formally closing one of the Columbia’s Valley premier winter attractions, following an intermittent pattern of mild conditions.

“For the second year in a row, it’s a disappointment, as we are closing at least three weeks ahead of what I would call normal,” Mr. Kitching told The Pioneer. “We had four Fridays in a row (through late January and most of February) of Pineapple Express — plus (temperatures of) 8 C, warm winds, and rain. Anytime we had snow or colder conditions in between, it would just go warm again and wipe it all out.”

March

Radium Resort debris fire causes furor A pile of construction debris at Radium Resort caught fire, sending smoke and odour through Radium Hot Springs and sparking a wave of social media attention.

“At the Radium Course, two brush piles were being burned as part of our annual cleanup. All necessary approvals, permits and notifications were in place. Unfortunately, the fire spread to materials from the recent demolition of the Radium Resort Hotel,” Radium Resort Limited Partnership managing director Gary Goetsch told The Pioneer.

Ministry of Environment spokesperson David Karn confirmed the ministry was aware of the burning waste debris pile, noting the ministry had ordered the resort to extinguish the fire.

Inimitable local RCMP staff sergeant retires After almost four decades of police work, including the past seven years as commander of the Columbia Valley RCMP, Staff Sergeant Marko Shehovac retired.

Mr. Shehovac left behind a legacy of community involvement, an unforgettable personal style, and a long stint as a humourous columnist in The Pioneer. Valley residents

December 30, 2016

The Columbia Valley Pioneer • 19

later paid tribute to him with a packed farewell dinner.

Jumbo elects to defer joining RDEK board Jumbo council passed a resolution at its March council meeting to push back the time when it was scheduled to take a seat at the RDEK board.

The resolution was proposed by Jumbo mayor Greg Deck, and requested that the provincial government amend the part of the municipality’s letters patent that would have seen it become a sitting member of the RDEK when it either had sufficient residents, reached a certain level of assessment, or in January 2017 — whichever came first. The resolution passed unanimously.

Deer relocation study starts monitoring The urban deer relocation trial study being conducted in several East Kootenay communities began its monitoring stage. The relocation study team was in Invermere in late February and managed to catch 13 deer and then release them into the backcountry west of Canal Flats.

Lead project biologist Ian Adams told The Pioneer the work had gone well, that the project managed to catch and relocate 60 deer in total from all the communities in which it was running, and was beginning to track their movement through use of radio collars.

Fentanyl overdoses in valley a growing concern The Columbia Valley RCMP voiced concern about the potential of the fentanyl overdose epidemic that was plaguing other parts of Canada hitting the valley, after fielding an increasing number of calls for help for overdoses during the spring.

“It’s a problem that’s obviously hit Saskatchewan, Manitoba and Alberta,” said Cpl. Brent Ayers. “They’ve all been dealing with it and it was only a matter of time before it filtered here, into the valley.” He added there had been six calls for service to the Columbia Valley RCMP in March alone.

April

Public input sought on horsepower limit The federal government began seeking feedback on a long-discussed proposed regulation to keep high-powered motorized boats off the main stem of the Columbia River between Invermere and Golden, as well as the main stem of the river near Fairmont Hot Springs.

The idea of such regulation was first floated more than 10 years ago. After years of discussion among municipal officials and various stakeholder groups, a consensus on a 20-horsepower limit for boats on those parts of the river was reached and a request to implement it was eventually sent to the federal Ministry of Transport, where it had then sat awaiting approval for many more years.

Furor erupts over loss of river access Rafting companies on the Kicking Horse River near Golden raised a ruckus about potentially losing access to an iconic stretch of whitewater for the coming summer. Canadian Pacific Rail had told the companies they would no longer be able to cross its rail tracks to launch on the river’s Lower Canyon.

The move had many members of Golden’s business community up in arms, but the reverberations also extended further upstream to here in the Upper Columbia Valley, with at least two local businesses affected by the closure.

Creston contractor to build new centre Invermere council chosen a company to build the

new multi-use centre. Council members voted to award the MAY — Gathered at the site of the Columbia Valley’s new community centre for contract for the work to Crestthe formal groundbreaking on Friday. May 20th were (left to right) Invermere on-based T.A. Rendek and AsCoun. Greg Anderson, Invermere Coun. Paul Denchuk, RDEK Area F Director sociates Ltd. for $7.45 million.

Wendy Booth, Invermere Coun. Justin Atterbury, Invermere Mayor Gerry Taft Invermere mayor Gerry and Invermere Coun. Al Miller.

Photo by Eric Elliott Taft said it was a milestone moment in a decades-long process, pointing out that the site of the centre (the old David Thompson Secondary School location) was purchased 22 years ago and discussion on building a new community centre of some sort had been ongoing ever since. Actual construction commenced just weeks after the decision.

CP says it will grant river access Canadian Pacific Railway and rafting companies usInvermere mayor aims to become MLA ing the Kicking Horse River near Golden appeared to have Invermere mayor Gerry Taft announced his intention agreed to a temporary solution, allowing the rafters access to an iconic stretch of whitewater just before the summer to seek the Columbia River-Revelstoke NDP nomination for the upcoming 2017 provincial election. season began.

Mr. Taft, known in the valley as the owner of the GerBoth sides said they were happy. The terms on the agreement were not made public, with spokespeople saying ry’s Gelati ice cream shops and Stolen Church coffee, has served as mayor since 2008, and as councillor since 2002. that had yet to iron out the final details He was 20 years old when he was first elected.

Former councillor vies for NDP nomination Former Invermere councillor Spring Hawes also anWetlands conservation proposal incites backlash The proposed 20-horsepower limit on the Upper Co- nounced that she would seek the NDP nomination in the Columbia River-Revelstoke riding. Ms. Hawes formally lumbia river continued to stir controversy.

Numerous groups sent in letters to the editor or made launched her nomination bid with an event at the Circle announcements in favour of or against the proposed regula- Cafe on Monday, June 6th.

She had served two terms on council, which, comtions. Many erroneously feared the regulation might apply bined, ran from 2008 to 2014, with a long history of advoto Lake Windermere and Columbia Lake. cating for accessibility and a number of other issues.

Timeshare owners file appeal River access battle gets set to boil Sunchaser Vacation Villas timeshare announced The fiasco over access to the Lower Canyon of the they would appeal the March ruling against them in the Kicking Horse River — which appeared on the verge of ongoing case.

Northmont chief executive officer Kurt Wankel told resolution in late May — continued, as attempts to iron out The Pioneer he wasn’t concerned, and that in his opinion, the details of the solution went off the rails (pun intended) the resort acted reasonably throughout the matter, that just days before the rafting season was set to being. The disthe contracts were clear and unambiguous, and that the agreement reached fever pitch at a massive protest rally in plaintiff’s claim without merit. No date for the appeal downtown Golden.

The matter was brought up in both the provincial and was given. national parliaments, but in the end it was to no avail, as Great Blue Herons in decline A Kootenay ecologist sounded an alarm about declin- Canadian Pacific Railway would continue to disallow rafing Great Blue Heron populations in the Upper Colum- ters to access the Lower Canyon by crossing its tracks for the duration of the summer. Eventually, two of the companies bia Valley.

Marlene Machmer, a Nelson-based spokesperson for would take to offering helicopter access rafting trips on the Pandion Ecological Research Ltd. and the project lead for Lower Canyon, but this carried a larger price tag for custhe Inventory for Breeding Sightings project, raised the tomers. The other four rafting companies simply remained concern and began collecting information about heron unable to use the river.

Remembering Tim nest sites, active breeding colonies or any large groups of The valley gathered to celebrate the life of resident Tim herons that frequent the area in the East and West KooteGoldie.

Hundreds came to an event in downtown Invermere nay regions as well as the North Columbia region.

The study was part of a sponsored breeding inventory held in his honour. Mr. Goldie, who lost his battle to brain and habitat assessment funded by the Columbia Basin cancer in March, was the owner of Peppi’s Pizza, and a husTrust and the Fish and Wildlife Compensation Program band and father known for his community involvement.

Continued on page 20 . . .

(FWCP).

June

May

20 • The Columbia Valley Pioneer

December 30, 2016

. . . ‘Year in Review’ from page 19

July

JULY — A herd of 350 goats from Rocky Ridge Vegetation Control were brought onto Akisqnuk land to eat a variety of invasive weeds in the area as part of the Akisqnuk’s invasive weed control program.

Photography by Marlene Chabot/ShutterBirds.ca

du Toit shocks golfing world Twenty-one-year-old Jared du Toit of Kimberley made national sports headlines in late July after finishing within three shots of Jhonattan Vegas for the Canadian Open Championship played at St. Andrews in Oakville, Ontario.

Mr. du Toit spends a great deal of his golfing training season playing the courses in the Columbia Valley and was remembered fondly by opponents such as Tryg Strand from David Thompson Secondary School during his time there.

Valley Fitness Centre gets upgrades Operating since 1987 as a not-forprofit physical fitness facility in Invermere, the Valley Fitness Centre received the facelift it needed, offering expanded hours in addition to spending more than $50,000 on new equipment for the facility.

The new hours announced were from 4 a.m. to midnight seven days a week, which they hoped would allow people working shift work throughout the valley to be able to access the facility at all hours.

Branding the Columbia Valley After months of searching for a cohesive voice for businesses throughout the Columbia Valley, the CV Tourism Marketing Committee unveiled the brand they wanted to build on to promote increased tourism: “Columbia Valley: It’s time to unwind.” The brand was unveiled before dignitaries from across the valley with the hope that all communities could get behind the branding and use it on signage and marketing material to unite the region rather than market its individual communities.

Undershute finishes 8th in CrossFit Games Jolaine Undershute, owner of Endeavor Fitness in Invermere, finished 8th at the 2016 CrossFit Games in Carson, California. Competing in the masters’ category

AUGUST — Jim Miller with the Columbia Valley Rural Fire and Rescue Service was recognized for a decade of community service in his role as fire chief.

RDEK photo

for women ages 40 to 44, Ms. Undershute was competing in her third CrossFit Games and will be moving onto the 45-50 age group if she can qualify for the 2017 Games that will be held in Madison, Wisconsin.

August

A historical reenactment in the Bugaboos A group of Ontarian climbers — Bryan Thompson, Rob LeBanc, Garry Reiss and Natalia Danalachi — made their way to Bugaboo Provincial Park in attempt to reenact a climb of the Bugaboo Spire done by famous climber Conrad Kain 100 years ago.

Using many of the same now-dated equipment that Kain used a century ago, the team attempted to make their way to the top of the Spire and film it for their documentary, Hobnails and Hemp Rope, which was screened in the valley in November.

Master ringmaster shines in Rio Pedro Cebulka made his sixth appearance on the Olympic stage during the 2016 Summer Games held in Rio de Janeiro. Having spent time living in Brazil, Mr. Cebulka was happy to be able to make it back to the Games to work with some of the top competitors in the world. Although he has already worked for 40 years as a ringmaster, he said he has no intention of slowing down and hopes he can make it to the 2020 Games in Tokyo, Japan.

Jumbo seat on RDEK delayed With no progress being made on Jumbo Glacier Resort since the project lost its environmental certificate, the Province of B.C. agreed the resort municipality should not assume a voting seat on the Regional District of East Kootenay board table on January 1st, 2017 — the timeframe originally stipulated in the provincial legislation that cre-

ated and incorporated Jumbo Glacier Mountain Resort Municipality.

RDEK Chair Rob Gay maintained that it would be pertinent to remove the timetable because the municipality had not established a residential population and should therefore not be considered a municipality with a voting seat.

Former Rockies player goes pro Scott Jacklin, who played for the Columbia Valley Rockies for two seasons from 2005-2007, signed a professional contract to play with the ECHL Brampton Beasts. Having dominated his second season in a Rockies uniform, he advanced to play in the BCHL for two seasons before suiting up for Robert Morris University for four years while getting his education. In 21 games with the Beasts, he recorded 13 points with seven goals.

September

New RCMP commander welcomed The Columbia Valley welcomed a new commander for its RCMP detachment with the arrival of Sergeant Bob Vatamaniuk who was preparing for the change of community policing after spending the bulk of his policing career working in larger urban areas.

Mr. Vatamaniuk was familiar with the valley prior to arriving in mid-September as his wife had grown up here, which is why, he said, he wanted to return to her roots with their two children.

Trail System planned for Barbour The proposed Barbour Rock multi-use trail network entered the formal referral process of the Ministry of Forests Lands and Natural Resource Operations.

The trail was jointly proposed by the Columbia Valley Cycling Society and Greenways Trail Alliance with the hope of adding 35 to 40 kilometres of trail to the area. The trail system is intended to be used as a multipurpose, non-motorized recreational trail for bikers, hikers and runners in the future.

Paranormal activity in valley investigated The Other Side TV show made their way to the Columbia Valley to feature a story on an active spirit on the property of Joanna Jensen located just outside of Fairmont on the Columbia River.

The first reports of experienced paranormal activity on the property occurred in 2007 during construction of the cabin before the team from The Other Side were invited to investigate the weird disturbances. The show aired on the Aboriginal Peoples Network in December and is available online at www.aptn.ca/fullepisodes.

Radium hot pools will not be privatized Operations of Radium Hot Springs — and other hot springs in Parks Canada’s mountain parks — will not be privatized.

Federal Minister of Environment Catherine McKenna announced that Parks Canada will maintain operational responsibility for the Radium, Banff and Miette hot springs, and that the federal government will

December 30, 2016 no longer be seeking a private operator for these hot springs, which was an issue that has been hotly debated in the area for the past eight years.

October

RCMP officer shot on Trans-Canada A female RCMP officer was shot while conducting a police stop near Golden on the afternoon of Tuesday, October 11th.

The shooting occurred during a traffic stop near the weight scales in Golden in connection with a possible vehicle theft.

The suspect in the stopped vehicle, later identified as Sheldon Kyle Thunderblanket, failed to comply with police direction, shot the female police officer and fled the scene.

The female officer sustained non-life threatening injuries and Mr. Thunderblanket was found dead near Revelstoke a day later.

School district’s ideas rejected A group of 40 concerned residents made their opinions known regarding the school district’s long-term facility plan at a meeting at David Thompson Secondary School (DTSS).

Among a host of issues, parents and citizens were most troubled by the idea of creating two K-7 elementary schools in Invermere rather than the current system whereby Eileen Madson Primary School operates as a K-3 school and J.A Laird operates as a Grade 4 to 7 school.

Taft and Clovechok square off in election District of Invermere mayor and small business owner Gerry Taft won the nomination to represent the BC NDP in the Columbia River-Revelstoke riding in the upcoming provincial election.

He will face Liberal representative Doug Clovechok who announced his candidacy in the riding in the spring of 2016. Mr. Clovechok ran for the provincial election in 2013 but lost to incumbent Norm MacDonald who is now retiring from politics. The 41st B.C. general election will be on May 9th, 2017.

Taft reveals reason for minority status Days after winning the nomination to become the representative for the BC NDP for the Columbia RiverRevelstoke riding, Gerry Taft announced in an exclusive interview with The Pioneer that he claimed minority status as a bisexual during his nomination process for the open candidacy.

The BC NDP’s gender equity policy requires that an NDP MLA who is stepping down be replaced by an equity-seeking individual, meaning that for Mr. Taft to be considered as a potential replacement for Mr. MacDonald, he had to belong to an equity-seeking group.

November

North American Resort of the Year Award Panorama Mountain Resort won the North American Resort of the Year award at the World Snow Awards, one of the most prestigious awards in the ski industry.

The local ski hill was awarded the designation on October 27th during the Telegraph Ski and Snowboard

The Columbia Valley Pioneer • 21

SEPTEMBER — This photo of a bear stealing garbage from the Invermere transfer station was submitted by George and Marla Oliver. Just prior to The Pioneer publishing the photo, the District of Invermere announced bear-proof bins would be in place at the transfer station by mid-September.

Photo submitted

December

Valley-born police officer earns Order of Merit Howard Burns, a valley local born and raised in Invermere, received an Order of Merit medal by Canada’s Governor General for the nearly two and a half decades of service he served as part of the Calgary police force. Mr. Burns was also known in the valley for his time playing for the Columbia Valley Rockies in 1986 during his college days at Mt. Royal College. He spent time working in various roles for the police force and was eventually promoted to president of the Calgary Police Association. He plans to retire in early 2017.

Micro abattoir gets ready to open After months of construction and years of planning, the Windermere District Farmers’ Institute finished up the final touches on the local micro abattoir with plans to open for business in January 2017.

The project, located just southwest of the Invermere Crossroads, had been years in the making and will be open to the public throughout the year to slaughter their animals or game. The Farmers’ Institute said they hope this brings back farming to the Columbia Valley.

Local starring on survivalist TV show Local backwoods lifer Greg Ovens made his way back from Patagonia and onto television screens across the world, as a star in season three of the series, Alone.

Broadcast on the History Channel, Alone is a survivalistlike reality TV show where 10 contestants are shipped off to Patagonia by themselves with one mission: stay alive.

The TV show began airing on December 8th and is continuing every Thursday for the season’s eight episodes.

Feature film brings major stars to Invermere Word got out that famous Hollywood stars Kate Winslet and Idris Elba will be making their way to Invermere on January 4th for the filming of their new feature film The Mountain Between Us. Filming is expected to take place around Invermere and Panorama Mountain Resort until the end of the month.

Show in London, UK. Panorama defeated other famous resorts such as Whistler, Mont Tremblant and Breckenbridge for the award.

Larsen steps away from politics After four years of sitting on council for the Village of Radium Hot Springs, Karen Larsen stepped down from her seat. She made the announcement at the village council meeting on October 12th, thanking council for the experiences and life lessons she’s gained since becoming a councillor. Her reason for stepping down from council was to move full-time to be with her husband in Nanaimo, B.C., where their family currently resides.

Entire Shuswap council gets re-elected On Tuesday, November 8th, the Shuswap Indian Band held their election, in which Barbara Cote was reelected as chief of the band along with incumbent councillors Rosalita Pascal and Timothy Eugene.

Ms. Cote received 86 of the 316 votes cast with Mr. Eugene coming in a close second with 74 votes. Ms. Cote has been chief of the Shuswap Band since 2014 and said she is now hoping to change the election to a custom date as one of her priorities going forward.

Barbour Rock trails generate discussion The Barbour Rock trail system proposal put forward in the fall of 2016 continued to generate more discussion amongst the comDECEMBER — A surprise apmunity. A letter to the editor from pearance by the notorious Dr. Seuss Lawrie Mack started the discussion character, The Grinch, delighted the against Barbour Rock in the hopes crowds browsing the many vendor taof keeping the region around Barbobles at the BIG Christmas Craft Fair ur Rock wild. Norman Hendricks, a at the Invermere Community Hall on member of the Toby Benches Society, December 3rd. Photo by Eric Elliott was also in opposition, angered that the Columbia Valley Cycling Society had already laid track on the trail.

Cycling Society director of trail development Dave Lammerse contradicted that statement, arguing they had laid the GPS co-ordinates for the proposed trail, but not have not yet laid actual trail.

22 • The Columbia Valley Pioneer

December 30, 2016

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FAIRMONT RIDGE RENOVATION

Doors Windows Flooring Painting/ Interior/Exterior • Kitchen Renovations

250-342-5682

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

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

Phil Bibby

Scott Postlethwaite

Free Estimates

Journeyman Carpenter

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

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

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

www.columbiavalleypioneer.com Phone: 250-341-6299 • Fax: 1-855-377-0312 • Email: ads@columbiavalleypioneer.com

N E W S PA P E R

December 30, 2016

The Columbia Valley Pioneer • 23

HERE TO SERVE YOU CONCRETE

CONTRACTING

• 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.

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

READY MIX CONCRETE

SERVICES

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

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

• 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

Snow Removal • Lawn Maintenance Commercial

Resdential

Everett Frater Enterprises

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.

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

SERVICES

SERVICES

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

ROSS‛S POOLS & SPAS

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

Commercial – Residential Installation – Maintenance – Repairs

Darren Ross

Call for your FREE consultation and estimate

Box 72, Canal Flats, B.C. V0B 1B0

Cell: 250-341-7727 • Fax: 1-778-523-2426 • poolman-911@hotmail.com Selkirk Appliance Repair Box 2073 Invermere, B.C. V0A 1K0

David Matheson

Owner

250-342-5151

selkirkapplrepair@hotmail.com

Scott Wilisky

WETT Certified

stwcarpentry@live.ca • 250-270-0745

THE VALLEY’S LARGEST WINDOW COVERINGS SHOWROOM • Roller Shades • Roman Shades • Cellular Shades

• Pleated Shades • Horizontal Blinds • Shutters

• Vertical Blinds • Automation • Residential & Commercial

Come visit our showroom,

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

24 • The Columbia Valley Pioneer

Your Local

December 30, 2016

COLUMBIA VALLEY REAL ESTATE

Professionals

Wende Brash Broker/Owner

ROCKIES WEST REALTY

INDEPENDENTLY OWNED AND OPERATED

492 Highway 93/95 Invermere, BC VOA 1K2

CELL: 250-342-5935 BUS: 250-342-5599 dk@rockieswest.com www.TeamRice.ca

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

HERE TO SERVE YOU SERVICES

SERVICES

Sales ~ Service ~ Installation

Kitchen cabinet & counter top SpecialiStS

Arnold Scheffer 250-342-6700

Westridge Cabinets Dealer ~ Granite and Quartz Counter Tops

UNIVERSAL DOORS & EXTERIORS

Come visit our showroom,

unidoorext@live.ca • unidoorext.ca

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

Industrial ~ Commercial ~ Residential

Lambert

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

Pioneer Classified Advertising 250-341-6299

PROPERTY MANAGEMENT

UPHOLSTERY

BOUTIQUE VACATION HOME MANAGEMENT RENTAL SERVICES

Golden Upholstery

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

A family business since 1960 • Residential/Commercial • Recreational Vehicle • Custom projects and more!

Patrick Parent

Call or visit online

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

250-439-8074

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

Serving the Columbia Valley and beyond.

SERVING SMALL BUSINESSES IN THE COLUMBIA VALLEY Call 250-341-6299 to discuss your advertising needs.

N E W S PA P E R

www.columbiavalleypioneer.com • ads@columbiavalleypioneer.com

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

December 30, 2016

The Columbia Valley Pioneer • 25

Pioneer Classifieds

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

ANNOUNCEMENT

CHEERS & JEERS

CHEERS & JEERS

COMMERCIAL SPACE

Cheers to Don Nicholson on his 86th Birthday much love from your family!

Cheers to the Radium Fire Department for bringing Santa and Mrs. Claus by on a lit up fire truck. My boys were so happy and one refuses to take his fire hat off.

Cheers for taking the time to spread some holiday cheer. I love living in a small town!

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.

Cheers to the officers that responded to the car accident at the intersection Lakeview drive,Hwy 801. Dec 23rd. They conducted themselves extremely professional, courteous and quick in a stressful situation for those involved. Cheers to Jim and Emily for being so caring and understanding. A special Cheers to Cst.Peggy Bell who was extremely understanding when dealing with me while conducting the statements.

1,490 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.

HO HO HO Cheers to the Santa and Mrs Claus who came to the door at my grandson’s house in Radium on Xmas Eve. It was a totally unexpected gesture. They went to bed with eyes shining and hearts bursting with the wonder of Santa’s visit. Good jobs guys. May you two have all the best in 2017.

Radium: Motel Bavaria, low low rates, daily, weekly, monthly.

Kitchenettes available. Call 250347-3315.

Alcoholics Anonymous. If alcohol is causing problems or conflict in your life, AA can help. All meetings are at 8 p.m. For more information, please call 250-342-2424. Columbia United AA, Invermere: Saturday, Sunday, Tuesday, and Wednesday at the BC Service Building, South End – 624 4th St., Invermere.

Radium Friendship Group: Friday at the Catholic Church, East Side of Main St. With the exception of Tuesday, all meetings are open.

Al-Anon. Are you concerned about or affected by someone else’s drinking? If so, please join us. Al-Anon meets EVERY Monday in Invermere at 7:15 p.m., at the Canadian Martyrs Catholic Church, 712 – 12th Ave (behind the Invermere hospital). For information, please call 250-3428255.

CHEERS & JEERS Cheers to Jaye at Selkirk Cellular who goes above and beyond to help out. You’re awesome Jaye!!

A great big Cheers to Ed Mesenchuk who always spoils us with kind words and treats. You always make our day when you come in to the branch. Your hugs are pretty great too!

Cheers to Ashley at Lambert Insurance. She was so kind, pleasant and helpful. It is so nice to see this type of customer service in the valley.

Cheers to Ruthie at RONA for all the help I needed in paints from covering fusia pink to getting great advice coming in almost all summer with paint matches. Cheers for your patience see you in the new year for more great advice!

A Huge Cheers to Shawn, Pat and all the other volunteers for once again an amazing fireworks display in Wilmer on Christmas Eve!

CHEERS & JEERS

CHEERS & JEERS

SUPER Cheers to April, Dave, Scottie, Toasty CHEERS to Diamond Kipp, Erin, Paul and far too many Heating’s Rick, Chris and Neil and more who stuck by us through this to Kootenay Flooring’s Matt and very difficult summer transition. Devin for pulling out all the stops Mike, Crystal and I appreciate your to install our new fireplace insert support and look forward to caring and tile work. Two other companies for all your needs even better than said it was impossible, but you before. Special Cheers to Dean for made it HAPPEN! Your persistence the temporary location. Couldn’t means a warm winter for us! Much JEERS have done it with out you!!CHEERS Andrew &appreciated!

Sponsored by

Cheers to the businesses, large and small, that don’t update their websites, it keeps my wallet full thinking you’re always closed. Extra Cheers to not uploading your new menus, it really puts the surprise into meal times!

A glittery hand full of Cheers to my wonderful clients! I’m glad I can bring some sparkle to your nails like you bring some sparkle to my life. Helping you get all dolled up is always my privilege!

Big Cheers to all the caring folks who call ICAN about animals out in the cold! The most recent cat we were called about by Canadian Tire had a broken hip and was very emaciated, so we are so happy that someone took the time to report him. That being said, we are running out of space at the shelter so if anyone is wanting to add a feline furry companion to your household, please give us a call!

Cheers to golf season being only three months away!

A huge shout out Cheers to the Radium Volunteer Fire Department for the beautiful Christmas light decorations on the hall, the decorated fire truck on display in the bay (great idea!), the hours dedicated to hosting another wonderful Children’s Christmas party, the addition of Mrs. Claus to the event, and for the members who drive Santa and Mrs. Claus around on Christmas Eve in the festive fire truck, bringing cheer to the residents and visitors of Radium. You guys are truly dedicated volunteers and make our community such a wonderful place to live! Merry Christmas!

Cheers to Jayne at It’s A Wrap for the delicious Christmas treats.

Cheers to the generosity and kindness of this valley, Jeers to the people who are clearly taking advantage of this, requesting specific donations then leaving valuable donated items outside to rot, shame on you!

Jeers to customers who travel through this valley and who bullied staff into selling goods far below the asking price with sad story that is no worse or better than anyone’s else’s tough times in the last year.

If you want to buy higher end goods I imagine your necessities of life are well provided for.

CHEERS to Jean the Christmas Decorating Queen. You have a truly amazing collection and have done a super job of displaying all your decorations. We enjoyed our visit.

Jeers to having to wait (typically) a hour, often times, over 2 hours for a scheduled appointment! This is not a rare occurrence. Not only is this extremely unprofessional, but very inconsiderate and rude to those waiting. Our time is valuable to us too! I feel sorry for the receptionist’s trying to do their jobs and keep on schedule! So a big “Cheers” to them for trying to do their job and for bearing the brunt of people’s anger and frustration!

Huge Cheers to Diana and Kevin at the Purple Cow in Fairmont. What fantastic people not to mention the above n beyond customer service.

Big Cheers for opening your store when you were clearly closed.

Cheers to Tim Hortons for warming us up on our Christmas Light Tour with your hot chocolate donation.

The residents of Ivy House appreciate your generosity. Merry Christmas!

Cheers to the Rockies Hockey Team for lending your bus to take the residents of Columbia Garden Village on a Christmas Light Tour. Double Cheers to Bucky for driving the bus and residents on an amazing light tour. Merry Christmas!

Huge Jeers to all of the gas stations in the valley for jacking up gas prices 5 to 6 cents per liter every long weekend just because they can.

A huge Cheers to Mountainside Market in Radium for their constant generosity and friendly staff!!!!

Cheers to the sparkling Christmas tree on top of the new centre. It’s just delightful!

LOST AND FOUND Lost: iPhone 5S on Dec 15th, 2016 in the Windermere/Invermere area.

Phone Bruce 778-527-0019.

Found: Keys in front of the Barbour Shop/Laundry Mat. Call 250341-6299 ext. 101 or drop by the Pioneer to claim.

STORAGE 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.

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

SUITE FOR RENT

VACATION RENTAL

INVERMERE GUEST SUITE Walk to town, beach, free ski bus!

Clean, spacious, fully furnished 3 bedroom, 1 bath. Efficiency kitchen, living room with fireplace, and study. All linens and towels. Cable and internet included.

DAILY, WEEKLY, MONTHLY

From $99 daily, $500 weekly, $1,500 monthly.

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

Please email classified ads to info@columbiavalleypioneer.com

26 • The Columbia Valley Pioneer

Jamie

December 30, 2016

Jamie Robyn Nicholas was born in the early hours of December 31st 1991. She was just over 5 weeks pre-mature, her due date was early February 1992. Jamie was a happy, healthy baby, there was no late night hospital visits.

On March 11th 1994 she welcomed her little brother Aaron into the world. Jamie was a very caring, gentle, big sister and immediately jumped into big sister role.

She met her step-dad Stan in the summer of 1998, but nobody took the special place she has for her dad Solo.

Jamie and Aaron had a great relationship and she enjoyed traveling around B.C. and Alberta for hockey tournaments with her family. Jamie went through Elementary school in Invermere and Windermere. She attended David Thompson Secondary School and came so close to graduating but she was to eager to start her life and hang out with her friends. She always planned on going back and finishing Grade 12 but life got in the way.

In 2004 she welcomed another brother Hughie into her growing family. Jamie loved her baby brother and enjoyed watching him grow and learn new things from him. In 2007 Jamie welcomed her new baby sister Cecelia into the family. Having a baby sister made her so happy. Jamie got a kick out of her little siblings and the cute things she caught on camera makes her mother Lavonne’s heart smile.

Jamie was working at Mica Dam near Revelstoke. On her one week break in 2012, Jamie got really sick and decided to go see the doctor. This was the beginning of her long and at times very painful journey with kidney disease. Before she turned 21 years old, she was in the hospital more times than her whole childhood. Jamie was a fighter and fought she did. She missed out on a lot after her diagnoses because of traveling out of town for dialysis and many doctors appointments.

In May of 2015 we got the incredible news that she was getting a kidney transplant, so her Grandma Millie, Jamie and her mother Lavonne got on a plane. This was Grandma Millie and Jamie’s first time on a plane to Vancouver.

Right from the start there was some complications. Her body rejected the kidney.

It took a little bit for her body to accept the kidney and she ended up staying in Vancouver for two months. She moved home to Edgewater for the first ten months, after that she needed her freedom again and moved to Wasa, B.C. with her best-friend Afton.

In June 2015 Jamie got really sick again and we found out that her body rejected her kidney so off to Vancouver again and too many blood transfusions.. Her doctors and nurses in Vancouver tried so hard to kickstart the kidney but in the end nothing worked. So back to dialysis three times a week she went.

For many years Jamie felt sick because of all the medication she had to take to keep her alive, she didn’t complain a whole lot. Jamie just seemed to accept it. After being in the hospital with double pnemonia and after having two more blood transfusions and having dialysis on Saturday, December 3rd Jamie was with Afton on her way to her uncle’s place in Invermere when she stopped breathing. When Jamie’s mother arrived at her brother’s house there was many First Responders working on Jamie. They didn’t stop, even after she got to the hospital. The first responders were trying to save her.

Jamie passed away on the evening of December 3rd. Jamie’s mother believes that Jamie was tired of fighting and needed a rest from all the needles and surgeries and anything else that comes with kidney disease.

Lavonne would like to thank all the First Responders; Dr. Manheimer, Dr. Johnson and all staff at the Invermere District Hospital; all Shuswap Band Staff, Chief Barb and Councilors Tim and Rose. Thank you to RDEK, Stan’s co-workers, and C.V.O.H.A. Many people came to the family’s side immediately after the loss of Jamie. A huge thank you goes out to the family’s amazing caring community and everyone that lives here. The family felt the love, thank you. A special thank you to Dominique for doing her make up. To Samantha and Lily Joseph for sitting with Lavonne. The family wants to thank Lilian Rose for really stepping up and helping.

Thank you to Delores Nicholas, Pauline Eugene, Suzie Thomas, Terry Babin, Sierra Stump, and everyone else that helped in those first few days. A thank you to Ian Capilo for taking her blanket and clothes to Cranbrook, a very special thank you to Theresa Kains for all of your help.

December 30, 2016

SUITE FOR RENT

The Columbia Valley Pioneer • 27

SERVICES

Unique large 2-bdrm apartment in Radium. $900/mo, utilities included, available immediately.

Call 250-342-6904.

Looking for F/T, P/T baristas, cooks and front counter attendants in Invermere. No experience required.

Wage dependable on experience.

Fun atmosphere to work in, free meals and many other perks!

Submit resume to crystal@box100. com or call 250-688-0561.

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.

HOUSE FOR RENT Windermere: 3-bdrm, 1.5 bath, upper level of home. $1250/mo includes utilities. Detached 2-car garage at extra cost. Available Feb. 1st. 250-342-8662.

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

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

CONDO FOR RENT

Shannon’s Blinds & Designs

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.

FIREWOOD \Support Rockies Hockey firewood.

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

Firewood For Sale. $220 per cord.

Cut, split and delivered. 250-3413544.

FITNESS STRONG HIIT Classes – Julie Parent LET’S KEEP FIT IN THE NEW YEAR!!

STRONG HIIT classes resume for the New Year. Wednesday January 4th.

Classes are held at J.A. Laird Elementary School Gym Wednesday and Valley Fitness Centre. Friday at 5:30 p.m.

For more information regarding this HIIT class please contact Julie Parent at 250-341-5474.

Zumba Fitness – Julie Parent LET’S KEEP FIT IN THE NEW YEAR!!

Zumba Classes resume for the New Year Thursday January 5th, 2017.

Classes are held at J.A. Laird Elementary School Gym Mon and Thurs at 5:30 p.m.

Contact Julie Parent at 250-3415474 for more information.

HELP WANTED

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 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.

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.

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.

Experienced Line Cook, to work with one of the valleys most revered cooks. To start immediately, days or evenings available. Please bring resume to John or Norma at the Skookum Inn.

Don’t Miss an Issue!

JOIN OUR WINNING TEAM! Fairmont Hot Springs Resort is accepting applications for the position of:

GROUP SALES COORDINATOR Fairmont Hot Springs Resort is looking for an enthusiastic and friendly individual with strong interpersonal and organizational skills.

N E W S PA P E R

Read us online:

www.columbiavalleypioneer.com

Duties include managing group accounts, with a focus on weddings, from initial contact to developing quotes, contracts and obtaining payments. This position will be responsible for communicating event details with various resort departments, conducting venue inspections and site tours, and overseeing the execution of group functions.

This position reports directly to the Group Sales Supervisor to drive group sales, generate new group business, and successfully execute group functions at Fairmont Hot Springs Resort.

The successful candidate will have the following qualifications: • A professional and positive attitude • Strong time management skills • Attention to detail with the ability to work without supervision • Ability to take charge, “think on your feet” and solve problems in high pressure situations • Experience working within a team environment • Strong communication and interpersonal skills • Good working knowledge of Microsoft Word, Excel & Outlook • Confidence in generating new group business by contacting external clients • Group sales experience is an asset • Available to work evenings & weekends as required • Valid driver’s license Fairmont Hot Springs Resort offers a competitive salary & benefits package with access to all Resort amenities. Please send your resume to David Sheedy at hr@fhsr.com or fax to 250.345.6616.

Didja know? After 6 months, you & your family can have health coverage and we pay the

premiums.

FairmontHotSprings.com 1.800.663.4979

Pioneer Classified Advertising 250-341-6299

Myth: One big ad will make a big impression.

Reality: The same money invested in a regular series of small ads will yield bigger results. Call Dean or Amanda at 250-341-6299 to find out more.

N E W S PA P E R

www.columbiavalleypioneer.com • info@columbiavalleypioneer.com

28 • The Columbia Valley Pioneer

December 30, 2016

Christmas Star shopping spree winner gives back

By Dean Midyette Pioneer Publisher This year’s Columbia Valley Chamber of Commerce Christmas Star $1,000 shopping spree winner was Robyn Oliver, who teaches art at David Thompson Secondary School. While on her whirlwind shopping spree, Robyn was accompanied by her shopping buddy Angel Christensen, Chamber executive director Susan Clovechok and Pioneer/Echo publisher Dean Midyette. The foursome departed from the Chamber offices shortly after noon on December 21st and began by heading north to shop at the Radium PetroCan. As the winner was limited to an hour of in-store shopping, Robyn was well-organized and purchased her goodies followed by a photo with PetroCan owner Kerry Ellingboe in just a couple of minutes.

“My goal today is to spend over $1,000,” said Robyn as she departed for her chosen retailers in downtown Invermere. Her first Invermere stop was AG Valley Foods where she purchased $150 in gift cards, then donated her purchase to the Columbia Valley Food Bank. “I chose to make the donation to the Food Bank as a way to give back and this was the perfect opportunity.”

Robyn also made stops at Ambiente, Main Street Fun and Games, Summit Footwear and Inside Edge before leaving Invermere for the Windermere Family Pantry and

BANKS IT — Christmas Star winner Robyn Oliver used $150 of her prize to purchase AG Valley Foods gift certificates for the local food bank.

Photo by Dean Midyette La Galeria II in Fairmont.

“It was a lot of fun to be able to visit the various businesses and when you’re spending someone else’s money, you don’t feel as guilty,” she said. “It gave me a chance to pick up a couple of extravagant gifts that I normally wouldn’t buy.

It also got me to shop in outlying communities that I don’t normally shop in.”

Susan Clovechok noted that this year’s winners were genuinely excited and

Feeling unbalanced?

Looking for Vitality?

Look no further!

The Columbia Valley's health and wellness magazine, Vitality, will be available starting December 30th at select locations from Spillimacheen to Canal Flats.

Packed with information and advice from local experts, Vitality is the valley's go-to guide for getting healthy and staying healthy.

Pick up a copy and turn over a new leaf in 2017.

appreciative, and that the exposure given to participating retailers through this promotion is exponential since winners share their experience with their friends.

“The $500 and $1,000 shopping spree winners were both locals yet they both acknowledge how great it was to go to retailers they wouldn’t normally visit and see what a wide rage of items are available,” said Susan.

The Columbia Valley Chamber of Commerce will continue to promote retailers who participated in the Christmas Star promotion by selling $10 gift certificates at the Chamber building-Visitor Centre located on the highway near the entrance to Copper Point Golf Course.

The Christmas Star program is a fun positive way to encourage shopping local and organizers would like to thank everyone who entered and made a special effort to support our amazing local businesses. Susan also made sure to thank Beth Neale of Rainbow Donkey for getting the program up and running again this year.

As her shopping spree concluded, Robyn noted: “What an amazing opportunity that the Chamber of Commerce has organized. I do make a point of shopping local and I feel this is a great way to reward locals who support community merchants.”

Spree stops Counter-clockwise from top right: Ambiente, Radium PetroCan, Main Street Fun & Games, Inside Edge and Windermere Family Pantry.

Photos by Dean Midyette

December 30, 2016

The Columbia Valley Pioneer • 29

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.

Holiday Hours COLUMBIA VALLEY LANDFILL December 24 9:00am-3:00pm December 25 Closed December 26 9:00am-6:00pm December 31 9:00am-3:00pm January 1 Closed All other days, the Landfill will be open from 9:00am to 6:00pm.

COLUMBIA VALLEY RDEK OFFICE The RDEK Columbia Valley Office is open Monday to Friday 8:30am to 4:30pm (closed 12pm to 1pm). During the holiday season, the only change to those regular hours is as follows: December 26 December 27 January 2

Closed Closed Closed

Glass 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

Electronics 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

30 • The Columbia Valley Pioneer

December 30, 2016

Village of Radium Hot Springs

NOTICE OF BY-ELECTION AND ASSENT VOTING PUBLIC NOTICE IS HEREBY given to the electors of the Village of Radium Hot Springs that a by-election by voting is necessary to elect one Councillor for the remaining term, ending December 2018, and for assent voting to determine if the municipality may borrow funds for the construction of a new Community Hall and Library.

The assent voting question is: Are you in favour of the Village of Radium Hot Springs borrowing up to $3.2 million, amortized for up to 30 years, to help fund the new Community Hall and Library, as described in Loan Authorization (Community Hall) Bylaw No. 425, 2016?

The persons for whom votes will be received for the position of Councillor are:

COUNCILLOR – One to be elected Surname

Usual Names

Residence

Gray Osborne Shudra

Mike Tamara Dale

Yoho Drive Hwy #95 Jaeggi Rd. Pine Cone Lane

VOTING DATES AND LOCATIONS GENERAL VOTING: Saturday, January 14, 2017 8:00 am and 8:00 pm Radium Community Hall, 4863 Stanley Street.

ADVANCE VOTING: Wednesday, January 4, 2017 8:00 am to 8:00 pm Radium Village Office 4836 Radium Blvd.

ELECTOR REGISTRATION There is no need to pre-register to vote as the registration of electors (mail ballot voting excluded) will take place at the time of voting. You will be required to make a declaration that you meet the following requirements: • • • • •

18 years of age or older Canadian citizen resident of BC for at least 6 months immediately preceding voting day resident of OR registered owner of real property in the Village of Radium Hot Springs for at least 30 days immediately preceding voting day, and not otherwise disqualified by law from voting.

Resident electors will be required to produce 2 pieces of identification (at least one with a signature). Picture identification is not necessary. The identification must prove both residency and identity.

Non-resident property electors must produce 2 pieces of identification (at least one with a signature) to prove identity, proof that they are entitled to register in relation to the property, and, if applicable, written consent from the majority of the property owners. Only one person can vote per property.

MAIL BALLOT VOTING Qualified electors may vote by mail if they: • have a physical disability, illness or injury that affects their ability to vote at a voting opportunity, OR • expect to be absent from the Village of Radium Hot Springs on both the general voting day and the advance voting opportunity.

REQUESTING A MAIL BALLOT PACKAGE: Before 4 pm on January 12th, 2017 you must submit an Application to Vote by Mail to the Village office in person or by mail (PO Box 340, Radium Hot Springs, BC V0A 1M0), fax (250-347-9068) or email (Mark.Read@radiumhotsprings.ca). Applications are available at the Village office, upon request, and on the Village website (www.radiumhotsprings.ca). Mail ballot electors will be required to submit a completed Elector Registration Form and consent from the majority of the property owners if they are seeking to register as a non-resident property elector.

To be counted, your mail ballot must be received by the Chief Election Officer no later than 8 pm on Saturday, January 14th, 2017.

SYNOPSIS OF PROPOSED BYLAW Loan Authorization (Community Hall) Bylaw No. 425, 2016 empowers Council to borrow a sum not exceeding $3.2M, for a maximum amortization term of 30 years, so as to undertake the construction of a new Community Hall and Library.

TAKE NOTICE that the above is a synopsis of the proposed bylaw and that this synopsis is not intended to be and is not to be understood as an interpretation of the bylaw. The full bylaw may be inspected at the Village of Radium Hot Springs office, during regular office hours, or on the Village website at www.radiumhotsprings.ca .

Mark Read, Chief Election Officer (250) 347-6455

The Reality Revolution: finding peace in transitory times Submitted by Allison Bowen The recent U.S. election produced an outcome that shocked not just the U.S. population, but the entire world. Mainstream media struggled to report and come to terms with the reality that was unfolding before their eyes in real time. The candidate that was touted to win for weeks and promoted at every opportunity did not win. The voice of authority emanating from our flat screen HD TV on a daily basis was wrong.

The realization commenced an internal psychological review by each participant invested in the election and the international media stories. Cognitive dissonance occurred on a global scale.

A revolution began. The prophets and religious texts all proclaimed a time of change on our beautiful little planet. This time is referred to as the Apocalypse in Revelations and the Earth Changes by the Sleeping Prophet Edgar Cayce. Many Indigenous tribes have prophesized these times. We witnessed the Black Snake prophecy playing out at Standing Rock in the same timeframe. The Standing Rock Water Protectors and supporters showed the world how we can change the world when we unify our intentions, energy and actions — the power of the people.

Who am I? Where do I come from? Why am I here? Profound questions still unanswered and often overlooked by humanity. Focused primarily on our everyday lives, lost in the energetic drama of personal situations, we spend little, if any, time contemplating these age-old, quintessential questions.

Current global events are in our own backyard and no longer on a TV screen, giving us no option but to make a choice. An individual choice that will result in a collective reality outcome based on love or fear. We all know what the fear choice looks and feels like.

The revolution has begun and it is not an external reality. The revolution, apocalypse and Earth changes are internal. The revolution is an evolution in human consciousness or an awakening as some have called it. We are awakening to a reality that is different from the one sold by the system. A reality created by a new frequency.

This frequency has a base grounded in love not fear. The story and frequency of fear is no longer resonating with humanity; we are changing the channel and tuning into a higher vibration. Quite frankly, this is freaking out those who liked the old channel.

Consciousness: who am I, why am I here, where do I come from? The story unfolding is a mere projection of the story unfolding within each and every one of us.

Peace is a frequency that emanates from within and, in doing so, manifests a new story, a new reality that evolves human consciousness.

Stay in the eye of the storm during this transition. Focus your thoughts, energy and actions on peace. Be peace. When the craziness gets too much, breathe deeply, disconnect from technology, go within, connect with nature, ground yourself to our sacred Mother Earth and remember who you are: a divine loving multi-dimensional being of light and love. Be the change, be peace and be love. The end times are the end of the old way of being — in fear. Be the change and watch as we begin to live in the new Earth, the new way of being: love.

Allison Bowen (Dip. BA) is a professional meditation teacher, intuitive healer, workshop facilitator and Reiki master in the Columbia Valley.

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December 30, 2016

The Columbia Valley Pioneer • 31

FAITH

Symbolism of the rain

By Matt Moore Associate Pastor, Lake Windermere Alliance Church About two weeks ago, I visited Whistler village for a week with my wife and it rained and rained. I knew that the coast received exponentially more rain, but I was once again amazed at how much truly came. On the Thursday morning, we saw that the clouds were going to try and break, and we decided that we would go and hike the Squamish Chief Trail.

As we drove from Whistler and saw how the river was roaring from the massive amount of water that had recently fallen from the sky and was making its way down to the ocean, I started thinking about the life cycle of a rain drop and how truly insignificant I thought one rain drop was, but how magnificent the rain was when it came together.

My wife headed up the trail and I couldn’t stop think-

ing about the rain drops. Along the Squamish Chief Trail there are some very pretty waterfalls — a place where all those little insignificant rain drops have come together to create something bigger than themselves.

We enjoyed the view, the wind and some more light showers and made our way safely down the mountain.

That evening we were at a Steve Bell concert and before he sang his song “Love is Our Way”, he told a story about rain. Rain comes from heaven, it falls, saturates the earth, replenishes it and rain is essential to life for every living thing on the earth. But rain eventually evaporates and is called back into the heavens, but only when its job is finished.

Jesus is like the rain. He was sent from heaven to restore, redeem, and bring new life to the earth and it wasn’t until Jesus had accomplished all that he needed to that he was called back home, ready to come again when the earth needs him the most.

We, each one of us, have an opportunity to live like a rain drop. We may feel small and insignificant, but we each serve a purpose on this earth. We can make small differences here and there, or sometimes we come together like the waterfall and carve new paths through the mountains, creating something people can enjoy for generations.

Warm welcome for new business The Shuswap Band represented by Chief Barb Cote and granddaughter Kayli Jasek and North Rock Holdings represented

by Pedro Cebulka would like to welcome CDL Carpet and Floor Centre represented by Colin Haugrud, Andrew Kazakoff, Mike Mesenchuk and Crystal McLaren to the North Rock Business Park.

The staff at CDL Floor Centre are looking forward to providing Invermere and surrounding areas with outstanding quality and customer service for all your flooring needs.

Please come and visit CDL’s Carpet Floor Centre’s newly renovated showroom open from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday to Friday and Saturdays from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Photo submitted

LAKE WINDERMERE ALLIANCE CHURCH Sunday, January 1st 10:30 a.m.

Worship and Life Instruction, “Rain” … Pastor Matt Moore ministering.

No “K.I.D.S.” Church today.

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 CHURCH OF JESUS CHRIST OF LATTER-DAY SAINTS 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 30, 2016

YOUR MONEY Is gold still relevant?

Even though we diverged from the gold standard in the early 1970s, gold is still an implicit form of money, and is used as an investment tool today. But what does gold really do for investors, and is it still relevant?

How is it used?

For many investors, gold is used as a hedging tool, or insurance, against financial chaos. Theoretically, when stock markets are soft, gold often increases in value due to investor demand. Therefore, gold can be thought of as a barometer for investor sentiment.

Central banks around the world currently hold about 33,000 metric tons of gold, mostly used as a hedging tool against uncertainty and low or negative interest rates.

The U.S. has the largest official gold reserves on record at over 8,000 metric tons, while Canada sold theirs off in early 2016.

Is gold risky?

Even though some investors consider gold a safe haven, it should not be thought of as a risk-free asset.

Gold is a reliable asset when held over extremely long periods of time, such as multiple decades, or even hundreds of years.

During shorter time frames, however, gold prices are extremely volatile, and therefore carry a high level of risk.

Is gold a good hedge?

As a hedging strategy, gold can work fairly well during times of financial stress, but this is not always the case. For instance, in October 2008 when the financial crisis was underway, U.S. stocks fell almost 17 per cent and gold dropped 18.5 per cent. In fact, in October 2008, the price of gold was 30 per cent lower than it is today.

From that point forward until March 9th, 2009, the TSX fell another 20 per cent while the price of gold rose 20 per cent, an excellent hedge during the time period.

Due to its price volatility, however, gold is a poor hedge against increases in the cost of living. In 1980 when inflation was raging at 13.5 per cent annually, gold traded at just over $800 per ounce. Over the next two decades, the cost of living steadily increased as gold prices fell. In fact, adjusted for inflation, gold prices remain over 30 per cent lower than its record highs of 1980.

Is it a good investment?

Like most other assets, gold goes through periods where prices increase and people can make money. For example, those who bought gold in 2009, 2010 or the first eight months of 2011, and sold before mid-2015 almost certainly made money. During the same period, however, the broader stock markets also did well. This

was a time of recovery for the stock markets, though not everyone felt bullish on their prospects, hence gold’s rising price.

Gold was also popular in 2016. The SPDR Gold Trust ETF took in $12.2 billion during the first half of 2016 — more than all U.S. stock ETFs combined during the same period. Its share value from about $103 to $130 per share during this time, before settling back to about $110 on December 9th.

As mentioned above, inflation-adjust gold prices are 30 per cent lower now than they were in 1980.

Therefore, although people have profited on gold in the meantime, it’s important to remember that gold is its own animal, and will not necessarily increase in value each year, or even decade.

Final thoughts With more investment tools to choose from than ever before, gold is generally less relevant to the average investor today than it has been in the past. Further, gold pays no dividends so investors earn nothing while they hold it.

Still, when used properly, gold can be a good tool for hedging or speculation. If you are interested in buying or selling gold within your investment portfolio, speak with your financial advisor who can help determine suitability and recommend the appropriate course of action.

Investments, Insurance & Financial Planning GIC Rates

Brendan Donahue BCOMM, CIM, FCSI

Senior Investment Advisor Insurance Agent

Sara Worley CIM®, FCSI®

Investment Advisor Insurance Agent

Committed to our community for over 10 years

as of December 19th

1 yr 2 yr 3 yr 4 yr 5 yr

1.47% 1.66% 1.78% 1.91% 2.01%

*Rates subject to change without notice.

Holly’s Financial Tips “Save money on your mortgage insurance by using term life insurance” Holly Jones BA,

Investment Associate, Insurance Agent

Please visit our website to learn how: invermereadvisors.com

Manulife Securities Incorporated is a Member of the Canadian Investor Protection Fund. Insurance products and services are offered through Manulife Securities Insurance Agency (a licensed life insurance agency and affiliate of Manulife Securities) by Manulife Securities Advisors licensed as life agents. The Manulife Securities logo and the Block Design are trademarks of The Manufacturers Life Insurance Company and are used by it, and by its affiliates under license.

Free consultations! • Ph: 250-342-2112 • Fax: 250-342-2113 • 530 13th Street , Invermere • www.invermereadvisors.com