Vol14issue01

January 6, 2017 Vol. 14/Issue 1

Your Weekly Source for News and Events

The Columbia

Valley

The Columbia Valley Pioneer • 1 January 6, 2017

P ioneer

FREE

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

DYKE DOWN

START OF A LEGACY 3 PROBLEMS SOLVED

3 MYSTERY MEMORIAL

10

On Friday, December 30th, Westside Legacy Trail construction began with two young trailbuilders Logan, 5, and Myles Altmann, 9 showing contractor Ralph Stewart (right) and Greenways’ Mark Halwa how to take down trees and begin preparing the pathway. See page 8 for details.

Photo submitted

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2 • The Columbia Valley Pioneer

January 6, 2017

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Graphics guru Emily Rawbon (pictured with her trusty sidekick, a 10-year-old border collie aptly named Paige) celebrated 10 years as The Pioneer’s graphic designer on Wednesday, January 4th.

In addition to contributing to the success of The Pioneer through the creation of dazzling ads and eye-catching graphic elements, Emily’s special touch is visible throughout most of the magazines and tourism publications available in the Columbia Valley, from the Columbia Valley Homes and Lifestyle Magazine to the recently released Vitality Health Magazine, as well as the Dining Guide, the region’s handy Map Pads and the Columbia Valley Map Book.

When asked for a speech about her milestone, she replied in typical deadpan fashion: “I’m speechless”, but an emotional tear or two could still be detected.

Emily will also be visiting one of her favourite haunts, Safta’s, in the near future to enjoy a meal and a well-deserved beverage.

Thank you Emily!

Photo by Nicole Trigg

NOTICE OF SPECIAL MEETING OF MEMBERSHIP The Columbia Valley Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors has directed the Secretary, Laurie Klassen to call a Special Meeting of the Membership for Tuesday, January 17th at 2 pm MST. The purpose of the Special Meeting will be to review and adopt recommended changes to the registered bylaws as required by the Federal Board of Trade Act part II. Note that this meeting will take place immediately following the regularly scheduled Columbia Valley Chamber of Commerce luncheon “Local Government Update.”

A copy of the recommended revised bylaws and proxy form can be obtained by calling the chamber office at 250-342-2844 or by sending an email request to info@cvchamber.ca.

January 6, 2017

The Columbia Valley Pioneer • 3

VALLEY NEWS

Ice dam causes Toby Creek to breach dike

By Steve Hubrecht Pioneer Staff Speedy action by Invermere’s Public Works team in the face of an ice dam-choked and rapidly rising Toby Creek averted a potential disaster just before Christmas.

Ice jams, building up to the point of actually becoming ice dams, do occur on the lower reaches of Toby Creek some winters, and that was the case again this year in the week before Christmas, but with much more dramatic consequences than usual with water coming over portions of the dike running along the south bank of the river.

“It could have been a big deal, but the Public Works foreman and team acted quickly,” said Invermere chief administrative officer Chris Prosser, adding the crew immediately began efforts to get the situation under control

by bringing in heavy machinery to break up the ice and by constructing defensive dikes.

Mr. Prosser told The Pioneer that on Tuesday, December 20th, the river appeared to be coming up but there was at least eight feet (2.4 metres) of freeboard (the distance between the top of the water and the top of the dike). The rate at which the river rose, however, increased exponentially and by the next day (Wednesday, December 21st) it was over the dike.

“That was all due to the water freezing,” said Mr. Prosser, adding the crew worked throughout the week up to and including Friday, December 23rd.

“It (ice dams and related flooding) is a slow moving issue,” said Mr. Prosser. “We have had this problem in the past, but it has never breached the dike.”

Contined on page 14 . . .

DIKE DOWN — This photo of the road that lies between Toby Creek and the district’s waste water treatment plant was taken before Invermere’s Public Works crew raised the sides of the road to make a proper channel for the river after the dike breach.

Photo by Dominic Hughes

Mainroad CEO visits East Kootenay in wake of complaints

By Steve Hubrecht Pioneer Staff With winter conditions at full bluster in the Columbia Valley, valley residents have once again taken up the annual tradition of complaining about the ploughing and clearing of local roads.

The latest complaints in the valley centre on the clearing — or lack of clearing — around Wilmer, and mirror similar complaints elsewhere in the East Kootenay.

Mainroad group president and chief executive officer Peter Ashcroft travelled to Cranbrook just before Christmas to meet with local provincial Ministry of Transportation staff, as well as East Kootenay residents and other stakeholders, and address the concerns. Mainroad signed a new seven-year contract with the ministry this past April for road clearance and maintenance in the East Kootenay.

Mr. Ashcroft spent a week in the East Kootenay, during which time he reviewed the company’s winter operations in the area in an effort to learn more about the issues facing the Mainroad team here.

“Even though we are the incumbent contractor, there are many changes to the new contract and our operations to satisfy that contract. With that comes a lot of

moving parts to manage and even with the best laid plans there are always things that are unforeseen and don’t go as expected. Many of the mobilization issues are now solved and I apologize to those people affected,” Mr. Ashcroft said in a press release.

“With these issues, there may be a misconception by a few members of the public that now that we have renewed the contract for the next seven years, we can take the foot off the gas and pull back on service levels to minimize cost. Let me assure everyone that Mainroad is committed to serving the East Kootenay travelling public.”

The new contract outlines new service requirements, and Mainroad has consequently spent $10 million on new maintenance yards and a new fleet of trucks.

“Mainroad East Kootenay contracting employees are very dedicated — they live in the communities they serve and want to do a great job. With the new equipment, technology and yard locations, we are committed to giving our employees the resources and support they need to deliver this contract. When things don’t go right, we all take it personally,” said Mr. Ashcroft in the release, promising that the company will be in the region for “the long haul.”

To learn more about the new contract’s updated specifications for snow and ice control, visit www.tranbc.ca/2016/12/14/everything-you-need-to-know-about-eastkootenay-highway-winter-maintenance-specifications.

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4 • The Columbia Valley Pioneer

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This past week witnessed a significant population increase in the Columbia Valley as things were considerably busier than normal with about 90 calls for service.

The following is a small sample of a few of those calls.

• On Friday, December 30th just after 8 a.m., Columbia Valley RCMP received a call concerning a vehicle versus deer collision at Lakeview Road and Highway 93/95. The caller said that no one was hurt and the Kia Sorento was still drivable and they were continuing on their way, but the driver was not sure if the deer was dead or not. Members attended to find deer hair on the highway and the injured deer was in the ditch on the west side of the highway. As members approached, the deer got up and walked away further west into a nearby subdivision.

Members ascertained that the deer hit the front passenger bumper and did not damage the vehicle. It appeared that both the vehicle and deer were fortunate.

• Later that morning, the RCMP received a report about an abandoned off-road vehicle in Windermere.

The complainant reported that he woke up in the morning and found an abandoned snowmobile in his front yard. From the tracks, it appeared that the driver lost control and rolled it over into his yard. Police attended and located a blue 1998 touring Skidoo. The complainant advised he had not heard anything overnight and did not recognize the snowmobile; it was subsequently towed. The responding RCMP members attempted to follow the tracks of the snowmobile; however, they went all through the neighbourhood and could not be tracked back to a single residence. Also noted were several beer cans strewn around many of the tracks. Later in the day, the owner of the snowmobile called RCMP and reported that his friend had rolled the machine without sustaining an injury, but they could not get it re-started. There was no damage to the complainant’s yard and minimal damage to the snowmobile. The owner was reminded that the snowmobile constitutes a motor vehicle and if

someone is found operating a snowmobile while impaired, they could be charged criminally for impaired operation.

• New Year’s Eve was steady with about 20 calls for service in a 24-hour period; most were alcohol-related.

• On Monday, January 2nd at about 6 p.m., Columbia Valley RCMP received dispatch of a theft that occurred at a hotel in Invermere. The complainant reported that there had been two young males hanging around in the lobby area of the hotel and engaged the night clerk in conversation. At some point, one of them stole a cheque from behind the front counter. They then attempted to cash the cheque at a liquor store near the hotel. The store employee would not cash the cheque and the two men returned to the hotel lobby. The front desk attendant confronted the two men and was able to retrieve the cheque from them; both men then departed on foot. The men were described as being in their early 20s and were Caucasian. Patrols were conducted in the area with no luck. RCMP continue to follow up.

• On Tuesday, January 3rd at about 1:30 a.m., RCMP were patrolling south on Highway 93/95 near the Tim Horton’s in Invermere. RCMP members observed a silver Nissan travelling north on Highway 93/95 that had some non-working headlights. Police followed the vehicle and determined that the licence plates were expired and not registered to any particular vehicle. The vehicle was eventually pulled over and further investigation revealed that the Nissan was not insured. Once the driver was confronted, it was determined that they did not have a valid driver’s licence and further admitted to consuming liquor prior to getting behind the wheel.

Displaying signs of obvious impairment, the driver was arrested and taken to the Columbia Valley Detachment for a Criminal Code Impaired Investigation. The driver produced two breath samples, both of which were over .08. Charges are being recommended.

The week also consisted of 23 motor vehicle incidents, mostly vehicles skidding off the highway into the ditch. There were also 15 abandoned 911 calls and five complaints of impaired drivers.

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January 6, 2017

The Columbia Valley Pioneer • 5

Annual General Meeting

Death of valley teen confirmed

By Pioneer Staff The Columbia Valley RCMP have confirmed the recent death of a valley teen.

Columbia Valley RCMP Sergeant Bob Vatamaniuck told The Pioneer on Tuesday, January 3rd that the local police force attended a residence following the report of the death of a 17-year-old female.

“The death has been confirmed as non-suspicious in nature and the RCMP continues to assist the B.C. Coroners Service in their investigation of the young woman’s death,” said Mr. Vatamaniuck.

The RCMP could not release further information regarding the death.

Wednesday, January 18th, 6:30 p.m.

Pynelogs Cultural Centre All public welcome. For more information call David at 250-688-2504 or email columbiavalleysar@gmail.com

Denture Service

What is Fentanyl and why is it a problem?

By Dean Nicholson East Kootenay Addiction Services Fentanyl is a drug classified as an opioid. Opioids are drugs that block pain signals in the body by binding to the body’s natural opioid (pain) receptors. Fentanyl is one of the most powerful opioids available, meaning it binds very effectively with pain receptors and at a lower dose than other opioids.

A sharp increase in overdose deaths right across the country has been blamed on Fentanyl, and B.C. has been particularly hard hit. By the end of August of this year, there were over 300 overdose deaths linked to Fentanyl with Fentanyl-related overdoses accounting for 60 per cent of all overdose deaths.

Some people use opioids for nonmedical reasons because the drug can produce a relaxed, dream-like high.

Unfortunately, the body develops a tolerance to opioids relatively quickly so users have to increase their dose to get the high they are seeking. But while users are getting their “high”, the drug is also binding to their pain receptors. As soon as the opioid starts to wear off, not only does the user lose the high, but they start experiencing very unpleasant withdrawal symptoms including intense body, bone and organ pain. The withdrawal symptoms are so intense that users quickly try to get another dose of the drug to stop the withdrawal. With Fentanyl, this shift from using to get high to using to avoid withdrawal can happen in a matter of months.

Over the past decade, as efforts were made to limit pharmaceutical opioids becoming available for street use, illicit drug labs began producing

illicit Fentanyl. These illicit pills are particularly deadly because the actual amount of Fentanyl in any pill can vary widely, from none at all to high levels. For the drug user, this meant they could not predict how much of a high they would get each time they used, which increased the risk of overdose.

Furthermore, in the last decade opioid medications began to be used as a recreational drug by younger and less experienced drug users. Younger recreational users were generally not used to withdrawal or physical discomfort from their drug use. These young people were both less prepared for an overdose experience and less willing to go through withdrawal to get off of Fentanyl once they became dependent.

And lastly, Fentanyl is being mixed with non-opioid drugs and sold to unsuspecting users. In B.C., a significant portion of the overdose deaths in which Fentanyl was involved, occurred with people who had bought stimulants, primarily cocaine, and did not realize they were taking Fentanyl.

What can be done to reduce the risks of Fentanyl?

Ongoing education about the risk of opioid use, and the risk of unintentional opioid use through tainted drugs is important. Also important is the broad distribution of Naloxone kits.

Free Naloxone kits are also

available at all EKASS offices, Public Health offices, ANKORS and other locations in the area.

For more information, contact Dean Nicholson or Jen Driscoll at 250-489-4344. For more information about services offered through EKASS please visit our website at www.ekass.com.

Dean Nicholson is the East Kootenay Addiction Services’ Executive Director.

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Card of Thanks A tremendous thank you to all individuals, especially the Cook family (Calgary) and the following businesses who made donations to the annual Wilmer Christmas Eve fireworks: Royal Canadian Legion Branch 71, Hubbard & Blakley, Station Pub, J & J Cote Enterprises, K5 Mechanical, Rocky River Grill, Pizzeria Mercato, RONA, Konig Meats, Basics Unlimited, Lambert Insurance, Lambert Kipp Pharmacy, Lucky Strike Gas, Local View Print Shop, Rigid Plumbing, Taynton Bay Electrical, Can West Propane, Canadian Tire, Max Helmer Construction, Valley Foods, Wilmer Eco Development and JR Enterprises.

Thanks to Kootenay Coffee Works for the hot chocolate; Gary Prosser (garage use); Local View Print Shop (posters); Shawn Murray, Dustin Murray, Tyler Brockmeyer, Pat Hemmelgarn, Clinton Hemmelgarn and Brett Archer for set up and lighting of the fireworks.Tim Horton’s and Ruth Fast (donuts), Bill Hemmelgarn (firewood), Teryl Hemmelgarn, Harmony Hemmelgarn and Eden Yesh for overseeing the hot chocolate and donations table. To those that attended and made donations for next year we appreciate it.

Happy New Year!

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6 • The Columbia Valley Pioneer

January 6, 2017

PERSPECTIVE

Deep freeze

By Nicole Trigg Pioneer Staff

Brrr... if there’s one thing everyone in the valley can agree upon lately, it’s that it’s been a little on the chilly side. At the time of writing this column (at 1:30 p.m. on Wednesday, January 4th), it’s a balmy -19 C, slightly warmer than a few hours earlier when Weather.com was reporting -28 C for Invermere while some in the valley experienced -30 or lower in the early morning.

The day before, on January 3rd, BC Hydro set a new record for power consumption province-wide, when demand for electricity peaked at 10,126 megawatts between 5 and 6 p.m. (ironically at the very time that the Fairmont area was without power for an hour due to equipment failure — see page 22). This new record breaks the previous record that’s been in place since November 29th, 2006 when consumption reached 10,113 megawatts between the same hours. But it appears this Arctic Front is on its way out with warmer temperatures predicted for the weekend.

Do doubt, though, these frigid few days will mark this cold snap in everyone’s memory. But not just because of the weather. If there’s ever a time when everyone is on the same wavelength, talking and relating about the same thing, it’s times like these, when there’s an inherent, mutual understanding of what each and every one of us is experiencing. There is something really heartwarming about how the extreme cold seems to inspire a strong place-based sense of community that rises to the surface, connecting us all; and then there’s the frozen stillness that creeps into the surrounding scenery, the crystal clear views of snowy mountains etched against a deep blue and cloudless sky, the glowing sunrises and sunsets, and the satin-black night sky sparkling with twinkling stars — fleeting visual treats reminding us of how magical Columbia Valley living is.

Correction

In the December 30th Pioneer story about the new High Notes Music Festival at Panorama Mountain Resort, it was erroneously stated within the story that the festival is taking place in January, when it’s actually slated for March. The Pioneer apologizes for the error. Please see page 5 for the poster with more information.

Historical Lens Sixties skiers This image is of the 1965-1966 Invermere Ski Club. If you have any more information, email us at info@columbia valleypioneer.com.

Photo courtesy of the Windermere District Historical Society

Resident reacts to Barbour letter Dear Editor: In reply to the December 6th letter to the editor “Is Barbour Rock the next Jumbo?”

“If the area can’t be ripped up with 50 kilometres of new bike trails then no one should use it.”

This is exactly how the bikers think, with no respect to wildlife, the local residents, other tenure holders, or the environment. Only 53 kilometres of legal trails? Must be a lot of illegal trails. Mountain bikes are allowed legally on all Christmas tree access roads and trails that exist here on the benches, and maps of the trails all through this valley are readily available on the Internet.

In the Toby Benches Official Community: Plan 9.3 policies (6) “Adherence to trail building best practices in the development of mountain biking and

hiking trails, such as maintaining reasonable trail densities is encouraged in order to limit the impact of trail development on wildlife.”

Fifty kilometres of new trails in this area is certainly over the limit, especially when access trails already exist. Mountain bike trails are built specifically for mountain biking and, in most cases, are not suitable for cross country skiing and hiking. The best hiking trails are no trails; just hike through the openings to wherever you wish in peace and quiet.

Sit awhile and enjoy the view and the undisturbed wildlife.

With not a penny for tenure, licence or insurance, the bikers want all Crown to be plastered with tenured new mountain bike trails and still ride two or three abreast on the pavement with all the vehicle traffic.

Continued on next page . . .

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

January 6, 2017

The Columbia Valley Pioneer • 7

Coal train three mountains long

Weekly DEALS and much more!

Submitted by Brian Fenerty Three mountains long the train That’s hauling yet another north, Nighttime’s coal train along our valley dark — Do the watching mountains know?

The jobs are needed true!

But just how many mountains be defaced So many distant skies be smogged, Before life logs some balance better?

Long train, train long, how long?

Like nighttime coal train heading north, For what are we on track?

When a mountainside is gone How can we put it back?

And, too, how many smog-filled skies inhaled Before we figure out something has failed?

True, in the really longer run The mountains will re-form!

Meanwhile, though, with nature will we Change our drive for domination Somehow also we reform?

Find balance — work & life & nature — We know we need already in our heart?

Coal train three mountains long, Rolling northward Thru our night, Keep track: track keep, of how we hopefully get Our world’s future Right.

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. . . ‘Resident’ from previous page All other tenure holders pay licence fees, tenure fees, insurance; and hunters pay licence fee, insurance and Habitat Conservation Fund. Crown land is public land and should not be all tenured for bikers.

Watch out Wilmer, Enid area, you’re next.

Norman Hendricks Toby Benches

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

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

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

Did you welcome a new addition to your family in 2016? Show off your little bundle of joy in the January 20th edition of The Columbia Valley Pioneer! Simply submit a high resolution photo of your baby (or grandbaby, niece, nephew...) along with the child’s full name, date of birth, weight at birth, parents’ names and a fun fact about the child.

The cost is $35+tax, deadline for submissions is Friday, January 13th.

For more information or to book your space, contact Amanda Nason at 250-341-6299 or ads@columbiavalleypioneer.com

N E W S PA P E R

8 • The Columbia Valley Pioneer

January 6, 2017

December 30th was the start of a Legacy cades of experience constructing roads in B.C. and Alberta, but Ralph’s decision to involve kids right from the start After several years in the planning, Westproves we picked the right guy. Ralph side Legacy Trail construction began on Friis very community-minded and will be day, December 30th. allowing other young trailbuilders to “We had committed to our donors to become on site in the spring and create gin construction in 2016 and are pleased we their own memories of the trail being met that commitment,” said Mark Halwa, exconstructed.” ecutive director of Greenways.

On the same day, Greenways hostThe Westside Legacy Trail is a 25-kilomeed a fat bike event to get full- and parttre paved multi-use pathway built on land dotime residents out on the trail prior to nated by six private landowners and two proconstruction. Greenways rented every vincial ministries.

Obtaining signed agreements from the available fat bike in the valley and took 24 people for a ride on the Salter Creek landowners was completed back in July 2015, Segment. Once again, the support was but the permitting, archeological assessments amazing with SRL owners Bob and and engineering designs took almost another TRAIL TESTERS — Fat bikers rolled through one of the planned segments of the Westside Barb Shaunessy supplying quads and one and a half years to complete.

Legacy Trail on an organized ride the same day —December 30th —that contractor Ralph personnel to clear portions of the trail “The project has been a tremendous comStewart started construction.

Photo submitted the day before, along with Brad Kitchmunity effort,” said Mr. Halwa, “and full-time and part-time residents have contributed over two million dollars to date for construc- ing from the Toby Creek Nordic Ski Club also grooming the east side trails for the fat bikers to return on. At the end of the ride, all the “fatties” returned for snacks and beverages. tion to now begin.”

“It is a fact we need $5 million dollars to complete this project, and we are almost In addition to cash donations, many individuals have provided their expertise to get halfway, but many people need to see actual construction before they give,” said Mr. past the permitting hurdles, especially Richard Haworth and Doug Clovechok.

While waiting for the permitting process to conclude, Greenways looked for the Halwa, “and that has now begun.”

Just like the valley’s other major project — the Columbia Valley Centre — there is right contractor and the successful bidder was Ralph Stewart Construction of Edgewater.

“The decision to choose Ralph was easy,” said Mr. Halwa. “He has over three de- lots to look forward to in the valley during 2017.

Submitted by Greenways Trail Alliance

Targeted Initiative for Older Workers Job Skills Training Opportunity

Who is this for?

Participants must meet the following eligibility criteria: • Unemployed • Aged 55 – 64 (in some circumstances, unemployed workers aged 50 – 54 or 65 and up may also participate) • Be legally entitled to work in Canada • Require new or enhanced skills for successful integration into new employment • Live in an eligible community/region • Be ready and committed to returning to work

What will you get?

Feeling unbalanced?

Looking for Vitality?

Participants may be eligible to receive: • • • •

Class-based skill development – including job searching and career planning Funding to access training at local educational institutions/trainers Income support for the duration of in-class training Targeted wage subsidy for on-the-job training

When is it?

• February 14 - May 19th, 2017

Look no further!

The Columbia Valley's health and wellness magazine, Vitality, will be available starting January 3rd 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.

Contact the Invermere campus today!

250-342-3210 • cotr.bc.ca/Invermere • invermere@cotr.bc.ca

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

January 6, 2017

The Columbia Valley Pioneer Page•99

WHAT’S HAPPENING IN THE COLUMBIA VALLEY

MUSIC • VISUAL ARTS • DINING • BAR SCENE • ENTERTAINMENT • PERFORMANCE ARTS HAPPY NEW YEAR!

Frozen ‘fore!’

PAGE 15

HARRY POTTER

PAGE 21 This scene from 2014 of snow golfer Mark Brough is a pretty good representation of what the 16th annual Snow Golf tournament is going to look like on January 14th. See the story on page 12 for details.

File photo

Out & About Your weekly guide to what’s happening around the Columbia Valley PAGE 11

Cinefest Films Winter Series

Pynelogs at Kinsmen Beach Tuesday January 10th & 24th at 7 pm

Visit columbiavalleyarts.com for our current events calendar, or call 250-342-4423

10 • The Columbia Valley Pioneer

January 6, 2017

Father Pat: mysterious memorial explained that time part of his diocese — visiting people in remote places and offering his ministerial services where needed.

In 1886 he wrote: “Crawling along trails and sliding On the grounds of St. Peter’s Anglican Church (also down ice slopes and scrambling up the steepest of preciknown as The Stolen Church) in Windermere stands a pices… you can fancy the state my feet were in. The skin memorial to Henry Irwin, known affectionately as Father was off most of them and the heels were all raw.”

Pat, erected 30 years after he died. He was the minister During a stint working for and living with Bishop who built the church when it was located in Donald, Sillitoe and his wife in New Westminster, Father Pat often B.C., prior to its theft and relocation to Windermere. rented a suit of clothes for “some poor fellow down on As a child in Ireland, Henry Irwin decided he wanted his luck” and invited him to dinner. Many gifts given to to be a missionary to a cold country. He was the eldest of Henry Irwin were regifted; not because, as often happens six children, born to a Church of Ireland minister. today, he didn’t require the object, but rather, when he Canada, especially the Kootenays in the 1880s, was saw a need, he felt compelled to meet it. far from civilized or greatly populated. Not having acWhen the Rossland church was built, an apartment quired the polite veneer Canadians are known for today, for him was constructed in the basement. However, Famany of its residents who Henry encountered were rough ther Pat decided to live in a nearby shack built into a mud and ready for a fight, in contrast to religious men, considbank because he knew individuals who needed his apartered lily-livered weaklings. ment more and vacated it for them.

Settlers, miners and railway men were his flock and At the age of 42, having exhausted himself, Father they often used their fists to make their feelings known.

Pat was sent by his bishop back to Ireland for rest, but An Anglican Church of Canada archivist explained he never made it. While on the journey home in January it this way: “Many men came out (from Great Britain), 1902, he inexplicably departed the train and began walkdid their two years’ service and fled back to their Royal ing towards Montreal. He was found sick and taken to a Doulton.” hospital where he died.

Henry Irwin a.k.a. “Father Pat” Father Pat was made of sterner stuff, having been Rossland has two public memorials to Father Pat; his raised in County Wicklow, accustomed to recklessly ripping around the countryside church and college in Ireland have memorial windows for him; and the National Lion a horse. As a student, he was known for his generosity and moral fibre — often pro- brary of Ireland has a file on him. tecting the weak from bullies — and his devout faith. When at Keble College, Oxford, Countless stories were told of his generosity, fearlessness, humility and great love he was nicknamed Father Pat by his classmates, due to his Irishness and affable nature. for humanity. Perhaps the Toronto Globe article on December 10th, 1898 best sumHis brother wrote: “I believe it was this rough riding in his boyhood that fitted marizes public appreciation for the man: “Here at Rossland is one pioneer whose caHenry so well for the work to which he afterwards devoted his life. All through his reer and personality endear him to the Kootenays, and whose memory will ever be a school and college life, he studied to train and harden his body in all kinds of manly tradition and a blessing… he is known exercises.” from Fort Steele to Okanagan LandFather Pat came to British Columbia in 1885. He worked in New Westminster, ing. There is not a trail through the Kamloops, Donald, Rossland, Princeton, Nelson, Cranbrook, Golden and travelled mountains, nor a road through the many miles on both foot and horseback, even into the United States — deemed at valleys, that he has not trudged over and over, and always on errands of mercy and of love.

“He has been the friend and confidant of every pioneer and prospector that has lived in the Kootenays for 15 years. He saw them come here, poor, eke out a hard existence far from towns and cities and refinement and civilization, but he was always among them with a cheery voice and a kindly smile, and they all loved him, and in pure affection called him ‘Father Pat.’ He has seen multitudes of his old friends grow rich and famous… but Father Pat prefers the bacon and beans, and hard luck and black coffee, in the miner’s log cabin to the banquet halls of the rich, the great, or the fa- Father Pat’s memorial was erected at the Windmous. He could have grown rich like ermere St. Peter’s site by his former parishioners MAN OF GOD MEMORIALIZED — St. Peter’s Church (also known as The Stolen others, but he says he wants to be like from Donald after they had moved to WinderChurch) in Windermere is where Father Pat’s memorial is located (far right of this photo, Him whom he preaches, ‘Who had mere 30 years after his death. and the photo to the right).

Photo by Dorothy Isted not whereon to lay His head’.”

Photo by Dorothy Isted

By Dorothy Isted Special to The Pioneer

January 6, 2017

The Columbia Valley Pioneer • 11

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, 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.

• 9 p.m. - close: Live Music with the Small Town Dirtbags at Bear’s Paw Bar & Grill in Fairmont Hot Springs Resort. Also Saturday January 7th.

Saturday, January 7th • Third Annual Dragon Tail Cross-Country Loppet at Panorama, a fun cross-country race open to all competitors, regardless of age or ability. Awards will be given at the Panorama Nordic Centre following the race. The first 30 competitors receive an event t-shirt and draw prizes will be provided by Helly Hansen, Rossignol and Panorama Mountain Resort.

• 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 • 10 a.m.: Senior Singalong Group meets every Monday at Garden Village.

• 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.

• 6:30 p.m.: Duplicate Bridge at Invermere senior’s hall, $2. Everyone welcome. Every Monday.

Tuesday, January 10th • 1:30 p.m.: Carpet Bowling at Canal Flats Seniors Hall every Tuesday.

• Trivia Night at Bear’s Paw Bar & Grill in Fairmont Hot Springs Resort, $2 entry, teams of up to six, Winner take all! $5 draft and house wine.

Wednesday, January 11th • 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 12th • 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.

• 2 p.m.: Seniors tea at the Invermere Library the 2nd and 4th Thursday of every month. Tea and a light snack is provided over friendly conversation. If you would like to attend but do not have transportation, please contact the library at 250-342-6416.

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

• 9 p.m. - close: Live Music with Smoking Rays at Bear’s Paw Bar & Grill in Fairmont Hot Springs Resort. Also Saturday January 14th.

Saturday, January 14th • Local’s Day at the Ski Area of Fairmont Hot Springs Resort with $2 Lift Tickets all day! Family friendly fun & games. Valid for residents from Brisco to Canal Flats.

• CIBC National Ski Day - Panorama is 1 of 17 resorts across the nation participating in the event and is offering guests 50% off lift tickets for the day (adults are just $46) with the proceeds going to support Canadian Ski Teams. Buy your tickets online before January 13th at http://alpinecanada.org/nationalskiday.

• 11 a.m.: 16th Annual Snow Golf Tournament on the lake at Kinsmen Beach. Registration for the scramble format begins at 11 a.m. at The Station Neighbourhood Pub and the event kicks off with a shotgun start at noon. Entry is $35 and can be purchased ahead of time by calling 250-342-5557.

Tuesday, January 17th • 7:30 p.m.: Enjoy local hockey as the Columbia Valley Rockies host Golden Rockets at Eddie Mountain Arena.

Wednesday, January 18th • 8 a.m.: Radium Hot Springs Sunrise Rotary meets for breakfast every 1st and 3rd Wednesday from November thru March at Higher Ground Cafe.

• 6:30 p.m.: Columbia Valley Search & Rescue Annual General Meeting at Pynelogs Cultural Centre. For information call David at 250-688-2504 or email columbiavalleysar@gmail.com.

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

• Wednesday: 10 a.m. - 8 p.m.

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

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

• Wednesday and Thursday: 1 - 4 p.m.

• Saturday: 10 a.m. - 1 p.m.

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.

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

• Friday and Saturday: 12 - 4 p.m

12 • The Columbia Valley Pioneer

January 6, 2017

HEY LOCALS,

!

Y A D R U O Y S ’ IT , 2 0 17 J O IN U S J A N U A R Y 14 T H

T O O N IE A T S U J R FO Y A D LL A SKI

2

$

Lift * Tickets Includes FREE same-day hot springs access

PLUS $2 TUBING

16th annual Snow Golf tournament coming up

By Steve Hubrecht Pioneer Staff One of the valley’s more surreal sporting events is set to return in a few weeks time, with the local Kinsmen Club gearing up for its annual snow golf tournament.

The sight of duffers carting their clubs and whacking away at coloured golf balls out on the frozen open space of Lake Windermere may be eye-catching to first-timers, but is nothing new to valley residents, since this year marks the 16th edition of the annual event.

The tournament will take place on Saturday, January 14th and offers — as it has in past years —18 full holes, complete with tee boxes and greens.

“Basically, it’s a fun way to raise money for the community,” said tournament organizer Steve Kuffler, adding the Kinsmen Club of the Windermere Valley use the proceeds (usually several thousand dollars) from the tournament for a variety of community projects and causes.

The unique event has been running long enough to have attracted a loyal following — last year saw 23 foursomes participate — but each year there are some new faces on the “course”.

“Every year some of those new people show up with white balls, but they tend to lose them pretty easily out there,” said Mr. Kuffler. “It’s always a hit. A lot of participants say it’s the best round of golf they play all year.”

Hosting a popular golf tournament on ice, literally, entails entirely unique challenges, according to Mr. Kuffler.

“You really never know what kind of conditions the course is going to have, and they can vary dramatically,” he said. “You might have a ton of snow out there, or you might have no snow. In fact, you might not even have enough ice. There was one year we had to cancel the event because it was just too warm, and the mild conditions made the ice unsafe.”

Prior to that particular year, the tournament had typically been held in early February, but since then it has been held mid-January, when conditions tend to be colder, in order to give the event a better chance of actually running.

“We get phenomenal support for the local golf course and businesses and, overall, a really great time is had by all,” said Mr. Kuffler.

Registration for the scramble format event is at 11 a.m. at the Station Pub, and the event will then begin with a shotgun start at noon. Participants must be 19 or older and the cost to play is $35. Call 250-342-5557 to purchase your entry ahead of time.

●

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● ●

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*Valid for residents from Brisco to Canal Flats. ID with proof of local address required

Canada’s Favourite Family Resort www.FairmontHotSprings.com or call 1.800.663.4979

AUTO BUSINESS HOMEOWNERS

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● ● ●

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Open Monday-Friday 9 am -12:30 p.m.

1 pm - 5 pm Saturday, 9 am -2 pm

250-342-2175 www.kootenayinsurance.ca

January 6, 2017

The Columbia Valley Pioneer • 13

All about our

CENTRE

A centre for the future

The Columbia Valley Centre will benefit everyone in our community, but our children will enjoy the advantages of this facility for many years to come. Clockwise from left: Mason Tufts-Godlien, Konnor Cavanaugh, Oakley Atterbury prep for a Firemen’s Ball; Mason Tufts-Godlien, Konnor Cavanaugh, Oakley Atterbury and Kennedi Atterbury rehearse for their first Columbia Valley Centre performance; ready to take the stage at the new CV Centre are Nora Solo, Mason Tufts-Godlien, Konnor Cavanaugh, Oakley Atterbury and Kennedi Atterbury.

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

All photos by Ruth Fast/Painted Sun Photography

Telling Our Life Stories Refresh and recall the memories and events of your life through writing and sharing with others.

Love 2 Learn Beginning January 2017 For parents and caregivers of 3-5 year old children, this 10-week programme will help parents recognize and support their kids’ emerging literacies, and build their pre-kindergarten skills.

For more information, contact Katie Andruschuk, Community Literacy Coordinator 250-409-4251 cbal.org kandruschuk@cbal.org

Art-full prizes Two local art galleries — The Artym Gallery and Bavin Glassworks — hosted their annual open houses on December 27th that drew big crowds of people who had the chance to win some amazing prizes.

Three of those winners are pictured here (from right to left): Greg Seamchuk, who has a vacation home in the valley and lives in Calgary, won a vase as a door prize at Bavin Glassworks; Connie Watson of Invermere won the demo glass bowl created at the 3 p.m. glass-blowing demo at Bavin Glassworks; and Greg’s motherin-law, Audrey Bingham who was visiting fron England for Christmas, won a small painting at the Artym, as did Greg and Connie —the paintings were door prizes donated by the gallery’s artists for the event.

“We thought Audrey’s was very fitting as she won a painting of a Canada goose wearing a striped red and white scarf that will be going back to England with her,” said Connie, who was impressed with the galleries’ generosity.

Photo submitted

Resource, Development & Advocacy

9 FREE weekly workshops from 10:30am-12:30pm starting on Friday, January 6, 2017 at the CBAL Classroom in Invermere Pre-Registration is required Limited to 10 participants Contact Leanne Brooks at 250-341-5683 or lbrooks@cbal.org

Settlement services are available FREE year-round to new Canadians.

Strong Start early learning drop in each weekday.

Basic Computers In Edgewater, BC A workshop for the first time PC User 6 FREE weekly workshops from 5:15-7:15 pm starting on Monday, January 16th, 2017 in Edgewater.

Contact Leanne Brooks at 250-341-5683 or lbrooks@cbal.org

14 • The Columbia Valley Pioneer

January 6, 2017

PIONEER ON THE ROAD

Last stragglers

*We’re still accepting late entries for the 2016 Travel Contest — if you have any entries (photos taken in 2016), please submit them asap!* Travel World, our local travel agency in Invermere, has once again generously donated a night at a Calgary hotel and two tickets to a Calgary Flames game to the winner of our annual Pioneer Travel Photo Contest.

Simply take a copy of The Pioneer with you when you are away on holidays, snap a photo with it, send it in and have it published in The Pioneer. At the end of the year, we will draw the winning name.

Submit your photos online at www.columbiavalleypioneer.com, email them to info@columbiavalleypioneer. com, or drop by our office, #8, 1008-8th Ave. Invermere.

Pictured, clockwise from top left: A visiting group from the Netherlands and Belgium touring with Invermere resident Byron Trask at a vantage point from the base of spectacular Mt. Edith Cavell near Jasper, Alberta; Bunny and Al Turner vacationing in Grand Cayman Island in November courtesy of their children who presented the trip to Bunny for her 80th birthday; Penny and Ashley Jensen at the south rim of the Grand Canyon; Tracey Siemens and Freddie Polkinghorne in Manzanilo, Mexico. . . . ‘Ice’ from page 3 District of Invermere staff will continue to monitor the situation, and it is not clear yet what will happen with the defensive dikes in the future.

“We’re assessing; we don’t know if they’ll be removed, or if they’ll be increased in size and become permanent structures,” said Mr. Prosser.

The whole issue is compounded by groundwater coming up behind the dike, and there is little the district can do about that, he added.

BIRD’S EYE VIEW — These aerial photos depict an excavator working on construction of the defensive dike, and the reinforced road, after an ice jam diverted Toby Creek down along the side of the road separating the river from Invermere’s waste water treatment plant.

Photos by Dominic Hughes

January 6, 2017

The Columbia Valley Pioneer • 15

Fun for everyone Clockwise from top left: Spectacular fireworks on New Year’s Eve were enjoyed up and down the valley, including in Columere Park where Gus and Coral Connery-Boyer had some fun in the snow (photos by Katie Watt); and on New Year’s Day, the Whiteway was a winter wonderland for all types of user groups, from cavorting canines to ice skaters; in the Windermere section of the Whiteway, Isabelle Price was teaching Anne, 5, to cross-country ski classic-style; while big brother Daniel, 8, was throwing himself into the challenge of towing his younger sister Charlotte, 6, along the ice with dad Scott MacCullam following behind with a watchful eye (photos by Nicole Trigg).

16 • The Columbia Valley Pioneer

January 6, 2017

HERE TO SERVE YOU CARPET CLEANING

LANDSCAPING

PHARMACY

LAMBERT-KIPP

P H A R M A C Y LT D .

Come in and browse our giftware

Your search for quality and dependability ends with us.

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

Dean Hubman

Toll Free: 877-342-3052

Certified Technician

Open Monday - Saturday 9 a.m. - 6 p.m.

1301 - 7th Avenue, Invermere

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

Invermere, BC V0A 1K3 odysseyrestoration@telus.net

250-342-3052

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

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

Your Compounding Pharmacy

250-342-6612 PLUMBING

PLUMBING • Septic Tank Pumping • Portable Toilet Rentals

Residential & Commercial Carpet & Upholstery Cleaning

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

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

(Formerly Dehart)

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

NEW SEWER CAMERA

www.ptarmigan-invermere.com

Pioneer Classified Advertising 250-341-6299

CONTRACTING • • • •

250-341-1182

Box 424, Invermere B.C. V0A 1K0

Serving the Columbia Valley

www.cabincare.ca

• • • •

Renovations Decks Finishing Interior/Exterior Painting David Gulbe Mike Bernicot

• • •

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

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

Plumbing • Boiler Systems

Rigid Plumbing Ltd. Andy Charette

Quality you can see!

Bruce Dehart 250.347.9803 or 250.342.5357

E: rigidplumbing@hotmail.ca P: 250-341-5179

CONTRACTING

CONTRACTING

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

• Trusses • Engineered Floors • Wall Panels

• •

250-341-7098 Invermere, B.C.

Tel: 250.341.6075 Fax: 250.341.3427 Email: info@duskbuildingsystems.com www.duskbuildingsystems.com

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

FAIRMONT RIDGE RENOVATION

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

Scott Postlethwaite

Free Estimates

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

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

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

N E W S PA P E R

January 6, 2017

The Columbia Valley Pioneer • 17

HERE TO SERVE YOU CONCRETE

SERVICES

• 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.

• 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

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

Snow Removal • Lawn Maintenance Commercial

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

Resdential

Proudly Serving the Valley for over 50 years

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

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

ROSS‛S POOLS & SPAS

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

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

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

SERVICES

Selkirk Appliance Repair Box 2073 Invermere, B.C. V0A 1K0

SERVICES

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David Matheson

Owner

250-342-5151

• Roller Shades • Roman Shades • Cellular Shades

selkirkapplrepair@hotmail.com

• Pleated Shades • Horizontal Blinds • Shutters

• Vertical Blinds • Automation • Residential & Commercial

Come visit our showroom,

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

UNIVERSAL DOORS & EXTERIORS

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

Arnold Scheffer 250-342-6700

unidoorext@live.ca • unidoorext.ca

Call for your FREE consultation and estimate

Industrial ~ Commercial ~ Residential Just a reminder… The classified deadline is 12 noon Tuesday.

Scott Wilisky

stwcarpentry@live.ca • 250-270-0745

WETT Certified

18 • The Columbia Valley Pioneer

January 6, 2017

Edgewater kids enjoy free Christmas luncheon Submitted by Vi Wittman Edgewater Legion The Royal Canadian Legion Branch #199 Edgewater hosted a Christmas Luncheon for the Edgewater Elementary School.

This was the second year that the Branch has invited the children and staff for a full-course Christmas dinner. Last year, Radium Mountainside Market assisted the Branch by donating 90 per cent of the food required.

This year, when news got out the luncheon was once again happening, the Legion received enough donations that there are funds available for next year.

The Veteran Command Motorcycle Club-Kootenay Chapter met with members of the Branch several weeks prior to the luncheon and gave them a donation of $500.

This motorcycle club has been assisting various Legions in the Kootenays with donations where youth is involved.

Continued on page 21 . . .

Your Local

CLUB WITH A CAUSE — Pictured are members of the Veteran Command Motorcycle Club-Kootenay Chapter. Back row, left to right are Dick Gadermans, Walter Lysohirka, Richie Miller and Andrew Nutter with Edgewater Legion finance officer Vi Wittman. Seated are Jim Quinn and Edgewater Legion president Lillian Burton.

Photo submitted

COLUMBIA VALLEY REAL ESTATE

Wende Brash Broker/Owner

ROCKIES WEST REALTY

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

Professionals RE/MAX Invermere

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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

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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

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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.

Kitchen cabinet & counter top SpecialiStS Westridge Cabinets Dealer ~ Granite and Quartz Counter Tops Come visit our showroom,

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

Christopher Jones Drainage Specialist

MrRooter.ca/kootenays mrrooter.kootenays@gmail.com

250-345-0216

Indpendently Owned & Operated Franchise Licensed • Insured

January 6, 2017

The Columbia Valley Pioneer • 19

Pioneer Classifieds ANNOUNCEMENT

ANNOUNCEMENT

CHEERS & JEERS

CHEERS & JEERS

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.

The Kinsmen Club of the Windermere Valley Christmas Tree Pickup is Saturday January 7th. All donations support the Canadian Cystic Fibrosis Foundation. Please have your trees by the curb by 9 a.m.

Cheers to The Pioneer publisher for reminding us that the uniqueness of our community is defined by its citizens; particularly our interactions with each other. As the New Year begins, we should all resolve to continue to respect and appreciate our families, friends and neighbors.

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 250342-8255.

Cheers to Britt for surprising me on Christmas eve with the BEST cheesecake I have ever tasted. You are truly one in a million - May 2017 be extra good to you!

Jeers to the people who complain about waiting for a scheduled appt. I know time is precious... which is exactly my point...person before you may have just found out they have cancer and a few months to live. You have no idea what the person is going through before you. If you don’t want to wait.... re-schedule. One day you may need more time and will be appreciative that you have such a compassionate doctor to listen.

Cheers to the people who wait patiently and understand doctors and staff are doing the best they can.

CHEERS & JEERS Cheers to staff at Marks Work Wearhouse, who found and kept safe a necklace left in the change rooms. Much appreciated!

Cheers to Dave for plowing our driveway on Monday. Much appreciated! You’re awesome, best to you in 2017!

S OBITUARY S O’Rourke, Makayla Sable 1999-2016

Our beloved Makayla unexpectedly passed away on December 28th, 2016.

She was very determined since the day she was born on January 21st, 1999 in a Mercury Sable car on route to the hospital on the Lougheed Highway in Coquitlam, B.C. She was a beautiful, creative, intelligent girl who had big dreams. She was going to graduate early in February. She had applied at SAIT to become an aircraft mechanic.

She very much loved the outdoors and had a passion for animals. She had nine birds and rode her horse, Taz. She is survived by her mother Aislinn (Jay); her brother Wyatt; Carol and Len (Grandparents); Uncle Caleb; Uncle Tavis (Lindsay); cousins Mariah, Brodie and Oakley and many extended family.

She will be an angel in our hearts forever. A Celebration of Life will be held at the Invermere Legion on Saturday, January 14th, 2017 at 2 p.m.

Jeers to the inconsiderate and apparently ill-informed drone pilot flying his drone on the NE side of Lake Windermere on Christmas Day! You broke every rule issued

by Transport Canada. The most offensive was flying 3 meters above skater’s heads who were trying to enjoy the peace and tranquility of the day.

A big CHEERS to Kat and Grant for bringing in the New Year with awesome fireworks and a great evening. We look forward to the next pyrotechnic celebration!

Cheers to Pat and Shawn for organizing yet another fantastic fireworks show Christmas Eve in Wilmer. For those attending it was definitely community and Christmas spirit at its finest!

Cheers to the gentlemen whom gave a boost to the astronomy guy’s car after the new year’s party Saturday night. You’re awesome!

Cheers for our kind neighbors.

May your kind words become infectious and abundant in our small community. Let’s ensure 2017 going forward will have zero tolerance for words that only hurt others.

Cheers to Peter Christensen for his “Peeved with polarizing politics” letter to the editor.

During the upcoming provincial election campaign, let’s remind the candidates that voters expect wholesome debate about policies and substantive issues that will improve our lives and build our local communities

THANK YOU

Thank you!

Thank you to Dr. Olmesdahl, Palliative care, Jessie and Norma, to all the home care workers and the Hospice Society. For all the loving care for my late husband Cliff O’Neil. Your care and kindness was most appreciated by all of our family.

Cliff passed away peacefully on December 7th, 2016 at the Invermere & District Hospital.

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

CHEERS & JEERS

CHEERS & JEERS

.

Jeers to the businesses around A big Cheers to Barb and staff town that don’t prioritize snow at our local Telus store (Selkirk removal from sidewalks. There are Cellular) for their excellent service independent, wheelchair bound and incredible patience when residents who would love your introducing elderly patrons to the CHEERS JEERS cooperation in following this bylaw. &21st century technology.

Sponsored by

Cheers to Brenda Mitchell and Pizzeria Mercato who made and delivered pizza to the Residents of Columbia House for our New Year’s Eve Celebration. The residents and staff shared wonderful words of the experience and the delicious pizza.

CHEERS to the amazing New Year’s Day effort of the Ledgerock Ridge neighbors to find ‘MATILDA’ the wire fox terrier puppy! What an amazing street to have everyone out in full force, working together in the dark, at supper time, to search together.

Happy to report, Matilda was found safe and sound! Happy New Year Ledgerock Ridgers!

Cheers to the young man who helped me push a Valley Foods shopping cart through the snow and across the street on Dec.28th, helped to unload my groceries, and then took the cart back for me. And Cheers to the driver who stopped and waited for us to get across the street when he could have gone ahead first. These kindnesses are appreciated.

Jeers to the politician’s comment towards developers. We do create jobs that allow people and their families to live in the ridings.

Big Cheers to new Valley resident Rick Owchar for shoveling our driveway (and it’s a big one!) during the recent snowfalls. He’s always willing to help out. Much appreciated!

CHEERS TO CAPS LOCK and Exclamation Points!!! Unnecessarily EMPHASIZING since 1986!

Cheers galore to Cycling Society “deciding to slow the process” and hosting an educational forum.

Such good leadership and truly a representation of the inclusive, cooperative roots in our Valley.

NDP’s equity nomination fiasco take note.

Jeers to NDP equity nomination fiasco. Top down (provincial) and bottom up (local) reconvene and say “Well that sure didn’t go well; let’s listen, cancel and start over, no way we can campaign on such rotten roots. We commit to upping our game with an honest open restart. Voters deserve to be respected”. That would be a place to start should the NDP be interested in restoring my trust in the candidate and party (For template, see Pioneer, page 17, Dec. 30, Cycling Society.....)

A huge Cheers to the Secret Santa who paid for dinner for my daughter and myself on December 30th. No words can express our deepest graduate with your kindness. Yes, Virginia, there is a Santa Claus!

Cheers to the Whiteway, so slippery and slidey, cracked and cold, windy and wispy, frozen and free, majestic and magical! Cheers to alliteration!

20 • The Columbia Valley Pioneer

January 6, 2017

CHEERS & JEERS

COMMERCIAL SPACE

CONDO FOR RENT

FIREWOOD

HELP WANTED

Jeers to 2016, you left us too soon.

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.

CONDO FOR RENT Radium: 2-bdrm, 2-bath, 6 appliances, fireplace, balcony, underground parking and storage locker. $900/mo., utilities included. N/S, N/P. Phone 780-5548150 or 780-929-5458 or email schedlerhome@hotmail.com.

Pine Firewood for sale. Call 250342-1586.

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.

Cheers to Fairmont Mountainside Market, AG Valley Foods, From Scratch Restaurant, Edibles Farm & Cafe, Gordon Food Services and Sysco Foods who all generously donated product and/or their time for the Windermere Elementary School Christmas Lunch. What a fantastic meal. You put a smile on lots of faces and filled lots of tummies. Your community support is much appreciated!

Cheers to the lady that helped me with my dad in the Red Apple parking lot, when my dad took a fall on the icy pavement. Don’t know what I would have done without you. Much appreciated!

SUITE FOR RENT Unique large 2-bdrm apartment in Radium, $850/mo., utilities included, available immediately.

Call 250-342-6904.

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.

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

Kitchenettes available. Call 250347-9915.

LOST AND FOUND

HOUSE FOR RENT

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

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.

Lost: Key ring with about 12 keys including Toyota key with FOB lost on December 26th at either Edgewater dump or Radium pool. $150 REWARD. Contact David at 780 814-4330.

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.

COMMERCIAL SPACE

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

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

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 250-3415474.

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.

FIREWOOD Support Rockies Hockey firewood.

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

SERVICES Heaven’s Best Carpet and Upholstery Cleaning.

Environmentally friendly products.

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

Shannon’s Blinds & Designs Thank you for your votes Best of Business Awards!

We are grateful and appreciative of your support and loyalty “Blinds, Drapery, retractable screen doors and more.” 250-342-5749.

HELP WANTED 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.

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

STRETCH

your advertising dollar FURTHER

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.

Advertise with…

Hiring temporary help for inventory on Jan 14th and the 15th. If interested come to Fields and let us know thanks.

Phone: (250) 341-6299 Fax: 1-855-377-0312 ads@columbiavalleypioneer.com

N E W S PA P E R

www.columbiavalleypioneer.com

January 6, 2017

The Columbia Valley Pioneer • 21

HELP WANTED

JOIN OUR WINNING TEAM!

Invermere library hosting its first Harry Potter Book Night

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.

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 premiums. can have health coverage and we pay the

FairmontHotSprings.com 1.800.663.4979

Our deadline to book advertising is Monday at noon.

To place an ad please call: 250-341-6299 or N E W S PA P E R

ads@columbiavalleypioneer.com

“He was a skinny, black-haired, bespectacled boy who had the pinched, slightly unhealthy look of someone who has grown a lot in a short space of time. His jeans were torn and dirty, his T-shirt baggy and faded, and the soles of his trainers were peeling away from the uppers.

Harry Potter’s appearance did not endear him to the neighbours, who were the sort of people who thought scruffiness ought to be punishable by law, but as he had hidden himself behind a large bush this evening he was quite invisible to the passers-by.” ~ Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix, J.K. Rowling On Thursday, February 2nd, the Invermere Public Library will be hosting a Harry Potter Book Night. First created three years ago by the team at Bloomsbury Children’s Books in the U.K., this event has become an annual celebration

worldwide.

On Harry Potter Book Night, we’ll be sharing the wonder of J. K. Rowling’s unforgettable stories and, most excitingly, introducing the next generation of readers to the unparalleled magic of Harry Potter.

Young witches, wizards and muggles

will be treated to an afternoon of games, activities, readings and quizzes.

It all begins when the Sorting Hat decides who will be in which house. Challenges and activities will include transfiguration games,

readings from our favourite Harry Potter books, a most-wanted wizard photo shoot, and much more. We’ll be decorating and serving up a few snacks inspired by some of the wonderful wizard foods in the books.

We are very excited to be joining up with schools, libraries, bookshops, and community centres around the world to celebrate the third annual — and first time for us — Harry Potter Book Night. It will be a short and sweet event between 3 and 5 p.m. on February 2nd to adhere to the library’s Thursday hours, while still hosting it on the official date.

This is a drop-in, free event for families and Harry Potter fans of all ages.

Come dressed as a witch, wizard or muggle and enter into the world many of us love so much.

For more information on this event and many more (including pre-registered LEGO Club), please contact us at the library via telephone: 250-342-6416, email: publiclibrary@invermere.net, or visit our webpage: invermere.bclibrary.ca.

This week’s column was written

by Kelsey Wood-Hrynkiw, Community Programs Co-ordinator at the Invermere Public Library, which is located at 201 7th Avenue.

. . . ‘Edgewater’ from

page 18 Other donations were received from local people who wanted to be part of this.

On December 12th, 104 students and nine teachers were treated to this dinner by six volunteers. The children enjoyed a sing-along with Barry Moore at the piano followed by the arrival of Santa and Mrs. Claus who distributed a goody bag to each child.

GROUP CHEER — One hundred and four Edgewater Elementary School students were treated to a Christmas Luncheon by the Edgewater Legion thanks to community donations that poured in for the event.

Photo submitted

22 • The Columbia Valley Pioneer

January 6, 2017

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

Winner gives composter to Windermere Elementary Submitted by Groundswell Network Society Invermere resident Jodi Casey is the winner of Groundswell’s JoraCan Rotating Composter draw.

As the draw prize winner, Jodi gets to choose a teacher she would like to gift the unit to and she selected Tara Whittick of Windermere Elementary.

“It’s great to get kids in- ROT ON! — Pictured are (left to right) Jodi Casey and volved in hands-on learning Tara Whittick with Groundswell’s Kayja Becker.

Photo submitted opportunities,” said Ms. Casey, “and having up-to-date equipso many learning connections through a ment and the support of organizations like simple bucket of organic waste!”

Groundswell makes the outcome of that Groundswell, the Regional District learning even more successful.” of East Kootenay and the Community The recently revised B.C. Provincial Energy Association have concluded a sucCurriculum brings a focus on develop- cessful four-month trial of collecting oring core competencies in a “Know-Do- ganic waste and windrow composting at Understand” model that emphasizes op- regional landfill sites. From July to Octoportunities for engagement of students in ber, 87 tons of organic waste was collected authentic tasks that connect learning to or dropped off and processed at regional the real world both in and outside of tra- landfill sites. ditional classroom environments.

This diversion of organic matter from “I find that a very exciting framework landfill reduces GHG methane emisfor engaging my students in real-life learn- sions, saves landfill space and produces ing opportunities,” said Mrs. Whittick. a valuable soil product. Over the com“Our goal will be to start with a classroom ing months, the trial will be analyzed and and hopefully grow the enterprise into a decisions will be made about enhancing school-wide program of waste reduction regional and community composting. and awareness that also integrates the Visit Groundswell online at www. communities we are all part of. There are facebook.com/Groundswell.Network.

Fairmont area loses power

By Pioneer Staff Due to equipment failure on a transmission line near Fairmont Hot Springs on Tuesday, January 3rd, BC Hydro announced that an emergency outage was required in order to make urgently needed repairs.

“We are conscious of the cold temperatures and will do everything we can to ensure the work is carried out safely and as quickly as possible,” said BC Hydro East Kootenay community relations officer Sally MacDonald in a release on Tuesday. “We thank our customers for their understanding during this urgent work.”

The power outage took place between 4:30 and 5:30 p.m. on Tuesday, affecting about 1,500 BC Hydro customers in Fairmont, Dutch Creek and the surrounding areas while temperatures hovered in the -20 C range.

Several hours prior to the scheduled outage, Ms. MacDonald contacted The Pioneer requesting help in spreading the word to prepare those affected. Posts on The Pioneer’s and Valley Echo’s Facebook pages reached over 4,300 people. The following day, The Pioneer attempted to contact BC Hydro for more information about the equipment failure but did not hear back prior to Wednesday’s press deadline.

January 6, 2017

The Columbia Valley Pioneer • 23

FAITH

Where Christ is found

By Laura Hermakin Reverend Christ Church Trinity “Where is the newborn king?” the magi ask.

Where do we find Christ? At Epiphany, we look more deeply at Christmas in order to find God manifest in our world.

We’ve exchanged gifts, swapped cards, eaten rich food, heard endless refrains about all we want for Christmas, watched our share of TV specials, tree lightings, and done our shopping. Now trash cans are stuffed with tinsel and trees are at the curb.

We come to the end of this whirlwind only to find the real question waiting to be answered: Where is the newborn king? Where do we find Christ?

We learn Christ is not with the people you’d expect.

Christ is not in a palace surrounded by servants and footmen, wealth and power. Christ is discovered in a simple house where the magi “saw the child with Mary his mother.” The first visitors included shepherds — simple folk who worked the fields and tended flocks. Christ is discovered among the humble, overlooked, marginalized and meek.

Christ is discovered in a small town that people wouldn’t think twice about. The most extraordinary child is among the most ordinary people — so ordinary that you have to “search diligently,” as Herod said, to

find him. Christ could be anywhere; could be anyone; could be everyone.

Amid the darkness, Christ is discovered in the light.

A star guides the way to the new king. If you want to find Christ, follow that light. It’s difficult to do that in a world often overcome by darkness, in a time when people are fearful and uncertain. It was that way in Jesus’ time too.

Look at where the magi found Christ: in a forgotten corner of the world, among forgotten people, under a star.

This is Epiphany — our great discovery of God. Christ is manifest in surprising places, in astonishing ways. Seek Christ as the magi did and you may be surprised. Christ may be a child hungering for a warm meal or home, or parents worried about their family’s future.

Christ may be found among those far from the centres of power: those feeling forgotten or neglected, or those feeling alone and misunderstood. Christ is the refugee fleeing persecution and the homeless seeking shelter. Christ is often found where we don’t expect him.

If the first words spoken in Matthew’s Epiphany story offer us deep challenge, the last ones offer profound hope. The magi had to return home by another way. An encounter with Christ means we need to change direction. There is another way. I can’t think of a better message for the start of a new year.

“Where is the newborn King?”

Herod’s answer to the magi still speaks to us: “search diligently.” If we open our eyes and our hearts, we will find Christ. Christ will be manifest, perhaps in ways we never imagined. We’ll share in the great epiphany and then, like the magi, we’ll find our way home… by another way.

Making the most of Maui In December, members of the Columbia Valley Swim Club enjoyed a 10day trip to Maui where they swam in a meet and trained with the local team that visited the valley in October. Left to right are Will Thorsteinson, Taylor Lightfoot, Grace Fitzsimmons, Devin Woodworth, Maia Conlon, Kendyl Kruger, Hannah Fullerton and Olivia Fitzsimmons.

Photo submitted

LAKE WINDERMERE ALLIANCE CHURCH Sunday, January 8th 10:30 a.m. Worship and Life Instruction, “Practical Faith – The Letter Of James” … Pastor Trevor Hagan ministering.

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

7:00 p.m. “SING and CELEBRATE”… at L.W.A.C. You are welcome to join us for an evening of singing the great hymns of the faith; food; and fellowship!

Lead Pastor Trevor Hagan • Associate Pastor Matt Moore 326 - 10th Ave, Invermere • 250-342-9535 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 Ave., 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

24 • The Columbia Valley Pioneer

January 6, 2017

YOUR MONEY

Recovering from a financial setback Everyone experiences major setbacks at one time or another like losing a job, going through a divorce or recovering from a serious illness or injury. Even incidents such as a leaky roof or broken down vehicle can cost thousands of dollars to fix, and often require immediate attention.

Challenging circumstances such as these can severely affect one’s finances. Here are some ideas for getting back on track.

Tighten the budget Most every budget has some slack. Regardless of whether income is lower or expenses are higher, it’s time to eliminate that slack and balance the budget.

Not sure where to look? Most budgetary slack can be found in discretionary areas, such as travel, entertainment and spending. One does not need to eliminate these items completely, but less shopping, going to the movies and eating in restaurants is likely a good place to start.

Earn more income If one’s expenses are fixed and not easily changed, it may be necessary to find ways to bring extra income into the household. This can be done by selling things of value such as art or collectibles, or working more hours. This may take the form of working full-time instead of part-time or taking on a second job.

Before committing to working more, it’s important to evaluate your time spent doing other things for the family that may need to be hired out, such as caring for young children. It’s important to be sure that one’s aftertax income is higher than the cost of childcare to make it worthwhile.

Renegotiate debt Even people whose only debt is a mortgage would be wise to visit their lending representative to see if there are any ways they can save on monthly payments by consolidating or renegotiating their debt.

In the case of a mortgage, relief could be as simple as switching from accelerated to standard payments, which would reduce the annual amount payable on one’s mortgage. Those who have made lump sum principal payments in the past may even be able to skip a payment or two, directing the saved money to other expenses. A mortgage may also be renegotiated to allow for a longer amortization period, potentially resulting in lower payments.

People may also consider consolidating debt from multiple sources into one loan or line of credit, or adding it to their mortgage. This can be helpful, as long as this is not done habitually, and additional debt is not accrued.

Another option would be to discuss the situation with one’s creditors to see if it’s possible to lower an interest rate, or possibly even reduce or defer payments for

a period of time.

Bigger setbacks If the financial setback is the type that could last a long time and cost a great deal, significant lifestyle changes may be needed. This is when to look at the larger line items in one’s budget. Huge financial decisions such as moving to a more affordable home or selling a vehicle may be necessary to get through tough times.

Final thoughts Depending on the financial setback, it could take months or even years to regain financial comfort. During this time, it’s important to remain patient and committed to the solution.

Once back on your feet, it would be wise to establish an emergency fund with enough cash to cover at least three months of living expenses should another emergency strike. Once the emergency fund is in place, focus on saving for the long term such as within an RRSP or TFSA, and, of course, stick to your budget.

Those with a financial advisor may find it helpful to speak with him or her about the financial setback at the onset. He or she may have other ideas that work better for your personal situation, and help ensure you are ready should another financial setback occur.

Investments, Insurance & Financial Planning GIC Rates

Brendan Donahue BCOMM, CIM, FCSI

Senior Investment Advisor Insurance Agent

Sara Worley CIM®, FCSI®

Investment Advisor Insurance Agent

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as of January 3rd

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Holly’s Financial Tips “Private RESP plans can be very restrictive and costly” Please visit our website to learn your options: Holly Jones BA,

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