Vol14issue19

May 12, 2017 Vol. 14/Issue 19

Your Weekly Source for News and Events

The Columbia

Valley

The Columbia Valley Pioneer • 1 May 12, 2017

P ioneer

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

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See page 3 and 22 for full election coverage, and get to know our new MLA and his rival candidates in a way just not possible on the campaign trail as the The Pioneer pulls back the political curtain in its special three-page Meet the People Behind the Candidate feature on pages 19-21.

Photo by Nikki Fredrikson

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2 • The Columbia Valley Pioneer

May 12, 2017

Valley views

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Grizzly good time in Kootenay National Park Spring is here in the Upper Columbia Valley and bears are up from their long winter’s nap. This year, as almost every year, a bunch of grizzlies (these ones seen on Sunday, May 7th) have been hanging out along Highway 93 in the south end of Kootenay National Park, munching dandelions, causing bear jams and giving a paw of approval to the (clearly quite relevant) group-of-four hiking restrictions in place on some of the park’s hikes.

Photos by Lee Horbachewski

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May 12, 2017

The Columbia Valley Pioneer • 3

Valley NEWS

BC Liberal candidate takes local riding

By Lorene Keitch Pioneer Staff Doug Clovechok rode to victory on a Liberal wave of support in the Columbia River-Revelstoke riding.

As of Wednesday morning, Elections BC results reported Mr. Clovechok with 45.75 per cent of the vote.

The NDP’s Gerry Taft was second with 35.92 per cent.

Mr. Clovechok paid respect to the other candidates Tuesday evening.

“You’ve got to respect anybody who will step up and do this because it’s not easy,” said Mr. Clovechok. “It’s not easy on the people around you, it’s not easy on your volunteers, so I want to congratulate all those guys who put their name forward too.”

Mr. Taft said these were not the results he was hoping for.

“This is the first time I’ve ever lost an election. Ever,” said Mr. Taft. “I’ve been doing it for 15 years and so I know a lot of people speculate or ask, if you’ve been in local government a long time, are you planning to move up? So it is kind of thought to be a progression.”

A big surprise of the night was the Green Party’s Samson Boyer who received 11.44 per cent of the vote.

He almost doubled the 2013 election results, when the Green party got 6.88 per cent of the votes and beat the record high of 8.44 per cent in the 2005 election.

The 18-year-old attributed his performance to being engaged with the electorate. He said his goal was to get 15 per cent of the vote, but he was happy with almost 12 per cent, and that this “was only a start.”

“My next plan is university, get more engaged with the community and hopefully run again in four years,”

he said. “If an 18 year old can get 12 per cent of the vote, who knows what a 22 year old can do.”

Kimberley resident Duncan Boyd MacLeod ran as in independent and received 3.26 per cent of the vote.

He was “really happy” with his results.

“I thought the results were affirming and inspiring,” Mr. Boyd MacLeod said. “I was a really late entrant into the race, so for 450 people to rally and vote for democracy reform on short notice, and without my campaign spending any money on advertising, I think it’s indicative of a growing feeling that in Columbia River-Revelstoke and throughout B.C. that politics as usual isn’t working.”

Independent candidate Justin Hooles received 2.55 per cent of the vote. He said while he did not get the results he was hoping for, he certainly found some positives to take away from the experience.

“I was hoping I would have done a little better,” said Mr. Hooles during a phone interview on election night as the last few ballot boxes were being tallied. “But I really did enjoy this entire experience.”

Hooles plans to run again in four years, and says he will be getting his name out in the riding earlier. But in the meantime he says he intends to look into running in the next municipal election in Kimberley.

According to Elections BC, there were 23,611 registered voters in the Columbia River-Revelstoke riding.

According to preliminary counts, 13,824 voters turned out, meaning approximately 58.5 per cent of eligible voters cast their vote.

Mr. Clovechok received 6,325 votes, Mr.Taft had 4,966 and Mr. Boyer got 1,582. Mr. Boyd MacLeod earned 450 votes while Mr. Hooles took 352, with Libertarian candidate Rylan Kashuba taking the final 148

NEW MLA — BC Liberal candidate Doug Clovechok will be Columbia River-Revelstoke’s first Liberal MLA in more than a decade, winning the riding on his second attempt.

File photo votes. According to Elections BC, these are preliminary results and numbers could change as absentee votes are counted from May 22nd to the 24th.

Provincially, the BC Liberals won 43 seats, the NDP won 41, and the Green Party could hold the balance of the power with its three seats.

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4 • The Columbia Valley Pioneer

May 12, 2017

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Columbia Valley RCMP responded to 66 calls for service over this past week.

Just a few of them are highlighted below: • On Wednesday, May 3rd at 6:51 a.m. Columbia Valley RCMP received a report of a break and enter and theft that occurred in the 2100 block of Pineridge Drive in Invermere.

The complainant was reporting that someone had broken into his garage and stolen two expensive mountain bikes. He advised that someone had also gone through his 2012 Toyota pickup.

It had been left unlocked in his driveway and he advised that the change tray was missing from it. It was determined that the garage door opener was also missing from the vehicle and was likely used to gain entry to the garage of his residence.

He reported that his Black Mojo 3 Mountain bike was stolen as well as his wife’s Rocky Mountain Thunderbolt bike. The bikes were valued at $9000 and $6000.

A motorcycle helmet and gloves were also stolen from the garage. He advised that someone had also opened his freezer but it was unknown it anything was missing.

There were many thefts that occurred in the area overnight and are likely related. The complainant was provided with a file number for insurance purposes and advised to disconnect his garage door opener, as it is still missing.

• On Wednesday, May 3rd at 8:30 a.m. RCMP received a complaint of a theft from an unlocked vehicle that occurred sometime overnight nearby the first incident, this time in the 2100 block of Pinetree Place in Invermere. The complainant reported that someone had gone through his 2000 GMC Yukon and stolen an Alpine amp and sub woofer box. Police attended to the above location and met with the complainant. He reported that the theft occurred sometime overnight and that they did not hear anything. He advised that several items of value had been left in the vehicle including a

vehicle code scanner and some tools. The amplifier that was stolen was a 1000 watt Alpine model and was attached to a box which held two ten inch sub woofers. He reported that the unit was old and the value was likely around $100. He reported that he believed the vehicle had been left unlocked and there did not appear to be any damage. There were multiple thefts in the area which occurred overnight and are likely related.

• On Wednesday, May 3rd at 8:55 a.m. RCMP received a complaint of a theft of a vehicle which occurred sometime overnight at Wolfe Crescent in Invermere. The complainants reported that their 2015 Dodge Grand Caravan was stolen sometime overnight and that they did not hear anything.

They reported that both of the keys for the van were believed to be accounted for. Three small bicycles and some sunglasses were also in the van when it was stolen. There was under a half tank of fuel in the vehicle. Investigation is ongoing.

• On Thursday, May 4th RCMP received a report of a stolen vehicle from the 1900 block of Pineridge Mountain Gate in Invermere. The complainant and owner, reported that his 2004 GMC Envoy was stolen from his driveway sometime in the past day or two. He advised that the keys had been left in it and it had nearly a full tank of gas. He advised that he was not sure when it was stolen and did not hear or see anything. He reported that it had expired insurance and had recent front end damage. He said that his golf clubs and tools were also left in the vehicle. Police had noted the vehicle in the driveway the day before as they had been investigating another theft in the area. Investigation into this theft is also ongoing.

RCMP would like to take this opportunity to remind the public that it is imperative to secure your residences, vehicles and personal property and effects.

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The Columbia Valley Pioneer • 5

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tions — a warm day with showers to follow on the weekend — before conducting the aerially ignited 8 blaze.

“These are areas we haven’t previously thinned and they’re trying to see some mortality in the trees that were there. We’re trying to open up that forest and do that with a fire that’s got enough heat to it, that it’s going to kill some of those Douglas firs 7 that are in there, especially the younger ones that are infilling and coming in since the last fire,” said Mr. Cochrane.

Despite having two separate burns in the Sinclair Canyon, Parks was only able to complete 75 per cent of the prescribed burn area, according to Mr. Cochrane, and they will most likely return 6to the area within the next year or two. As of now, fire crews are still patrolling the area but the Sinclair Canyon trail has reopened to the public. p. 70

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It may seem odd to start a forest fire to prevent a fire from happening but for Parks Canada, the Sinclair Canyon fire has been in the works for three years. The prescribed burn was part of a plan to restore the forest’s natural ecology and reduce the risk of forest fire. The initial burn took place in early April and a second prescribed burn of the area happened on Thursday, May 4th.

“This time we had slightly different objectives as to what we’re trying to achieve. We wanted to see a higher intensity of the surface fire and to do that we used the aerial ignition to try and achieve those objectives,” said Jed Cochrane, fire and vegetation ecologist for Parks Canada.

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Who would have thought a dispute over deer management would result in two separate court cases and a settlement of $75,000? The dispute turned personal after Invermere resident and B.C. Deer Protection Society member Devin Kazakoff filed a defamation case against Invermere mayor and NDP MLA candidate Gerry Taft last year.

Mr. Kazakoff sued the local mayor for a comment made online by Mr. Taft in January 2016, with which Mr. Taft labeled Mr. Kazakoff a “convicted felon.” The comment was made after Mr. Kazakoff pleaded guilty in 2015 to tampering with deer traps in Kimberley. In his defamation suit Mr. Kazakoff alleged Taft’s comments were calculated to expose Mr. Kazakoff to local ridicule.

Kazakoff’s lawyers originally asked for an apology from Taft before then seeking legal resolution, in which Kazakoff asked for $175,000 in general, punitive and aggravated damages. A Supreme Court of British Columbia judgement found the defendant (Mr. Taft) did not take adequate steps to apologize.

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“What a mayor of any community says about a person’s reputation matters—to the community, to constituents, and to the person’s friends, family, and, in this case, customers, both actual and prospective,” reads the judgement.

Mr. Taft, however, told the Pioneer he did apologize in February 2016.

Mr. Kazakoff argued Mr. Taft’s comments affected his flooring business, saying customers were generally interested in his product but once he handed them his card they abruptly left the store.

Judge G. C. Weatherill said he did find Mr. Taft’s comments diminished Mr. Kazakoff’s reputation in the community, but not to the extent alleged by Mr. Kazakoff, awarding him $50,000 for general damages, $25,000 for aggravated damages, but no punitive damages.

Liberal candidate and Columbia River-Revelstoke MLA-elect Doug Clovechok weighed in on the matter, prior to the election, saying “the people of Columbia River-Revelstoke deserve an MLA with the highest integrity, someone they can trust.”

Mr. Taft said he was disappointed with the decision and is looking to appeal in the future.

REVELSTOKE AVE

By Nikki Fredrikson Pioneer Staff

Let’s have a little taste of Hungary

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6 • The Columbia Valley Pioneer

May 12, 2017

perspective Historical Lens

Rivalry and support

By Nikki Fredrikson Pioneer Staff It seems with every election comes a rivalry between parties, candidates, and occasionally supporters, however, I was surprised to see that ‘rivalry’ so to speak dissolve as the polls rolled in. I spent election night at NDP candidate Gerry Taft’s office, covering the election from his side of things and I was surprised by the amount of support the Columbia River-Revelstoke riding candidates had for each other.

While the battle waged on between the Liberals and the NDP to win the swing riding of Columbia RiverRevelstoke the candidates played nice. Once Mr. Doug Clovechok took the riding Mr. Taft immediately called to congratulate his riding rival and spoke to me about his admiration for the independent candidates. He even received a phone call from independent Justin Hooles upon the announcement of the Liberal’s win. In his winning speech Mr. Clovechok even took time to acknowledge the other candidates in the riding, and the work they put in.

Having spent the last few weeks of the election covering all the candidates and watching them campaign against each other it was nice to see the respect these up and coming politicians have for each other.

Maypole festival In this image dated May 12th, 1937, a large group gathers for a Maypole celebration outside Pynelogs, marking the opening of the Lady Bruce Memorial Hospital. If you have any more information, email us at info@columbiavalleypioneer.com.

Photo (C118) courtesy of the Windermere District Historical Society

Program proves a big success

Correction Last week’s edition of the Pioneer ran a letter from the Invermere paramedics, to which the newspaper gave the headline ‘Paramedics thank NDP candidate’ — a headline which did not accurately reflect the content of letter.

As the paramedics pointed out to the Pioneer “while the letter did mention that NDP candidate Gerry Taft had a good understanding of the issues, it did not say anything about thanking him. A much more appropriate headline for the letter would have been ‘Paramedics thankful for community support.’ As a diverse group of people, local ambulance attendants, each with their own ideas and ideals, took extra care not to specifically endorse any candidates in particular. Our letter simply highlighted some key issues of the petition.”

Dear Editor: The cost of education should not be a debt sentence for Canadian students if the investment in learning balances the proverbial budget in our society by promoting personal and professional growth.

When 10 graduates celebrated the completion of their 300-hour education in the Entry to Early Childhood Education pilot-program at the Akisqnuk First Nation banquet hall on Friday, April 21st with their friends and family, the Columbia Valley community gained a rich and bright new future.

The Eva Joseph Learning and Cultural Society partnered with Katherine Bonell, the program devel-

oper and lead instructor who also opened the Rural Communities Early Childhood Institute in March 2015 to address the shortage of entry level early childhood educators in the East Kootenay region, to offer the pilot-program between January and April.

The duo applied for and thankfully received a social initiative grant from the Columbia Basin Trust, so students only had to pay $397.64 for the coursework.

The funding was also used to create a 10-week community playgroup at the Akisqnuk First Nation Eva Joseph Family Centre, which students offered with their instructor at no-charge to families with children of all ages.

Continued on page 27. . .

The Columbia Valley

CANADIAN COMMUNITY NEWSPAPER AWARD 2013

Pioneer

is independently owned and operated, published weekly by Robert W. Doull, President, 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

Steve Hubrecht Acting Editor

Lorene Keitch Reporter

Nikki Fredrikson Reporter

Amanda Nason Advertising Sales

Emily Rawbon Graphic Design/ Associate Publisher

Amanda Murray

Office Administrator/ Classified Sales

May 12, 2017

The Columbia Valley Pioneer • 7

LETTERS

 

INVENTORY BLOWOUT

In defense of Greenways Trail Alliance Dear Editor: Not long ago the Greenways Trail Alliance held a meeting outlining a very detailed plan on how they are moving forward to legitimize and to better manage the trail systems in our region for the purpose of providing a more responsible, more enjoyable and safer backcountry experience for all users while mitigating very serious environmental and wildlife issues.

Mark Halwa sent out an open and sincere invitation for anybody and everybody who wanted to join their group to do so and pointed out where comments and ideas could be shared on their website.

It is interesting that because of this meeting there have been several letters to the editor and a column penned by a Pioneer reporter all claiming that nothing is being done and there needs to be measures in place or a group formed to protect the environment and wildlife. Really?

The purpose of this meeting was to try to wash away conflict, to present the great lengths many cooperating groups are going to to protect the environment and wildlife and to encourage concerned parties to get involved. Either you’re all not quite grasping what they’re doing (which I am sure you are) or your comments toward tougher regulations are just smokescreen covering up your real goals; to decommission existing trails and to stand in the way of any new ones.

Perhaps you just feel that your club and your club alone should have the reins?

Are you concerned about the loss of donations if you’re not spearheading this? If your motives are altruistic as you claim

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why not lend your knowledge, your talents and your wealth of backcountry experience to work alongside the amazing group of volunteers that have already put in literally hundreds of hours working to achieve the same exact goals you claim to seek?

The only way this process works is if all groups work together for a common goal. I respect the goals of the Greenways — to provide world class recreational trails for all types of recreation that blend harmoniously with nature and minimize impact. Feel free to correct me if I’m wrong, but from everything I have read in the past few weeks, the real goal from a small vocal few is not management at all; your goal is abstinence.

If we don’t work together to give all backcountry users somewhere to do what they do in a responsible manner they will do what they do everywhere and more damage will occur. Pat Morrow’s slideshow clearly highlights what happened without a plan.

The only goal of the Greenways Trail Alliance is to work their butts off to help erase the scars of the past and to ensure the photos taken 20 years from now tell a much different story — one of happy families soaking in all the blessings of the backcountry while minimizing their impact on the area we all love! They’d likely be much more successful achieving their goals if everybody jumped on board to help them instead of spending endless hours criticizing them.

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8 • The Columbia Valley Pioneer

May 12, 2017

Westside gas station gets zoning

By Steve Hubrecht Pioneer Staff

Windermere Valley Minor Hockey Association

ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING

Wednesday May 17, 2017 at 7:00 pm at the Eddie Mountain Arena in the Windermere Valley Minor Hockey Room If you are interested in volunteering

A gas station and convenience store development planned for Westside Park is a step closer to going ahead, following a unanimous vote at the most recent Invermere council meeting.

During the Monday, April 24th meeting, council members all voted in favour of a zoning bylaw amendment that will allow for the development, which is proposed by valley realtor Barry Brown-John and will be located at the north end of Westside Park. Several restrictions, however, have been set in place, including that the gas station and convenience store’s hours of operation be limited to 6 a.m. to 10 p.m., that exterior lighting be only full cut off LED lighting; that only indirect source sign lighting be used (not back lit signs) and that signs only be illuminated during hours of operation.

Mr. Brown-John will still need to get council to approve a development permit, before the district can grant

we are looking for new Board Members

The Columbia Valley Food Bank Notice of Annual General Meeting The Annual General Meeting of the Columbia Valley Food Bank will be held on Wednesday, May 24th, 2017 at 1:30 p.m., in the Invermere Health Centre Boardroom, 850 - 10th Avenue. All members, as well as the general public, are welcome to attend.

Board Nominations Nominations for the 2017/2018 Board of Directors will be accepted, in advance only, by the nominating committee. The deadline for receiving nominations is noon, Tuesday, May 23rd at Family Dynamix.

Please pick up nomination forms at the Family Resource Centre. You must be a member in good standing in order to be nominated.

For further information call 250-342-2456

a building permit or business license.

Invermere mayor Gerry Taft, speaking after the meeting, told The Pioneer there had been quite a bit of discussion amongst council members at the meeting, even though the vote was unanimous.

“Council looked at the scope and scale of the project, and considered that during the public hearing (on the proposed development) some people were opposed to it. But we saw that there are tools (the restrictions) to help manage the concerns,” said Mr. Taft.

Mr. Taft said Mr. Brown-John had made another proposal for a much larger gas station-convenience store development at the south end of Westside Park several years ago, but that council had turned that plan down.

“This (proposal) is much more a neighbourhood store with a few gas pumps,” he said.

The public hearing on the matter had been held on Monday, April 10th and drew about 30 people – some of them argued against the project and some of them were in favour of it.

Kindersley trail to remain open

By Nikki Fredrikson Pioneer Staff During the David Pacey versus Parks Canada trial earlier this month, Mr. Pacey alleged that the parks agency is considering closing the Kindersley Pass trail – an assertion that turns out to be untrue.

Parks Canada public relations and communications officer Lindsay McPherson said in an email to The Pioneer that at this time there are no plans to close or decommission the trail.

The Kindersley is a 10-kilometre hike navigating through switchbacks while climbing an uphill terrain. The trail begins eight and a half kilometres from the park gate in the Village of Radium Hot Springs. Hikers often combine it with the Sinclair Creek trail into a single big loop trail. It is often

billed as the most popular day hike in Kootenay National Park (although the internationally famous Rockwall is undoubtedly the most popular in the park, its roughly 50 kilometre length typically results in it being classified as a multi-day trail rather than a day hike).

The Kindersley Trail is one of many trails within the park that will have a group-of-four restriction placed on the trail, meaning all hikers must be in groups of four or more.

“Evidence shows that bears are less likely to have a negative contact encounter if a hiking party is in a group of at least four people,” said Ms. McPherson.

The restriction is put in place every year, during periods of high bear activity along the trail, usually from May to October, for the safety of hikers and bears.

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The Columbia Valley Pioneer • 9

RAMP group underway

By Nikki Fredrickson Pioneer Staff The Columbia Valley is pretty much the only region in the East Kootenay without an official Recreational Access Management Plan (RAMP) - a state of affairs that 25 community members representing various clubs, societies, and the RDEK sought to rectify, or at least start that process, when they met to discuss how to create such a plan for the Valley earlier this week.

The meeting, held Monday, May 8th in Radium Hot Springs, had representation from both motorized and non-motorized groups throughout the Valley all hoping to come to a common goal for management of backcountry and front country recreation. The group has gained some momentum after receiving a grant from the Recreation Sites and Trails branch of the provincial Ministry of Forests, Lands and Natural Resource Operations (FLNRO).

The group was allotted $7,500 to put to use within the next year and made a decision to put the grant towards funding a facilitator for the project. All but one member of the group was in favour of a facilitator. The person opposed to the idea was Nipika Mountain Resort owner Lyle Wilson, who thought the group needed a more democratic process to their organization.

“I don’t want to rely on a facilitator to manage the process,” said Mr. Wilson.

A subcommittee of three members was formed to research other recreational access management plans, highlights from plans, and do preliminary research on a facilitator to bring back for discussion with the whole group.

ROCKIES WEST REALTY

Radium mayor Clara Reinhardt suggested that the committee have representation from government, motorized and non-motorized users. The subcommittee of three is made up of RDEK Area G director Gerry Wilkie, Andrew Cradduck representing motorized users, and Eddie Petryshen from local environmental group Wildsight.

Throughout the meeting, several people suggested that the RAMP should have a government lead, as do similar districtlevel management plans for other issues, rather than the grassroots approach that’s currently being used. Mr. Wilson suggested that the group look at other RAMPS and use them as templates, finding commonalities in their plan, and then cut and paste together something appropriate for the Valley.

Mark Halwa of Greenways Trail Alliance suggested the group should start by talking about their goals, values, process, timeline, and a budget for the plan. However, he was opposed by other members, who said the group is not yet at that stage.

Rick Hoar, president of the Windermere Valley Rod & Gun Club, said he felt the goals were clearly set out, but added that he is “concerned about who’s not at this table,” going to point out the absence of the B.C. Trappers Association, the Wild Sheep Society of B.C, representatives from the hunting guide industry, and First Nations.

The group was unable to decide on what goals should be discussed and focused the meeting on their plans for a facilitator.

The next RAMP meeting will be held on Monday, July 31st at 7 p.m. in the Village of Radium Hot Springs council chambers.

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

Request for Quotation

For Janitorial Services at the Columbia Valley Community Facility The District is seeking a janitorial company to clean the new Columbia Valley Community Centre.

The District of Invermere invites applications from qualified persons for the janitorial cleaning service of the new Columbia Valley Community Centre. Copies of the contract can be obtained at the Municipal Office (914 - 8th Avenue) or on the District website www.invermere.net.

The Request of Quotation must be presented or delivered to the District of Invermere clearly marked: Request for Quotation: Columbia Valley Community Facility Janitorial Services There will be a MANDATORY SITE VISIT at 2 pm, May 18, 2017. All contractors must be in attendance or have made previous arrangements with the District to view the building and the scope of work.

Completed quotations must be received no later than May 30, 2017 at 2 p.m. MT. Completed quotes must be received at:

All Inquiries related to this Request for Quotation shall be directed to:

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

Chris Prosser, Chief Administrative Officer District of Invermere Phone 250-342-9281 • e-mail cao@invermere.net

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10 • The Columbia Valley Pioneer

May 12, 2017

Panorama president at peak of ski industry

By Lorene Keitch Pioneer Staff Panorama Mountain Village’s own Steve Paccagnan is at the top of his game in the ski business. Leading his team through another successful ski season and heading into a busy summer, Paccagnan now has yet another reason to smile.

Paccagnan, Panorama’s president and chief executive officer, received the honour of Distinguished Alumnus at his alma mater, Selkirk College, during the college’s 2017 graduation ceremony Friday, April 28th.

“The Selkirk College award and convocation event was very moving and I am so honoured and grateful to have been recognized by their President Angus Graeme, Board of Governors and the Tourism & Hospitality faculty,” Paccagnan told The Pioneer. “I’m humbled by it.”

The college is near and dear to Paccagnan. He graduated from Selkirk’s Ski Resort Operations and Management Program (SROAM) in 1988 at the top of his class and has been climbing the mountain of ski industry success ever since.

“The opportunity to have graduated from Selkirk College some 30-years ago was the starting point and foundation for what continues to be an amazing life-long journey of continuous learning. It was also very moving to have been able to address the 2017 graduates of Selkirk

College,” Paccagnan shares.

The college wanted to recognize Paccagnan’s contribution to the industry and continued strong connection to the college with the highest honour they can bestow on an alumnus. Current SROAM program instructors and veteran industry leaders put his name forward for the nomination.

“Steve’s capacity to continually inspire his team to new levels remains evident in his more recent positions leading Kicking Horse Resort and now Panorama Mountain Village,” wrote Hugh Smythe, former president of Intrawest Resort Operations Group. “With his great passion for the ski industry, Steve has played an important role in promoting leadership and development programs, as well as marketing initiatives and government relationships through the Canada West Ski Areas Association, of which he is currently chair of the board.”

Growing up skiing Mount Seymour, Grouse, Cypress Mountain Resort and Whistler, Paccagnan always felt drawn and connected to the mountains. While he started his college education to pursue law, a Christmas break trip to Panorama landed him a job as a bellman at the resort and altered his career path.

“I immediately fell in love with the resort and fell in love with the idea of being able to work and live in the mountain environment,” he told Selkirk College. “It wasn’t about the money, it was about the pure passion of

Steve Paccagnan

Submitted photo

being in the mountains and being at the resort. That’s where it started.”

It was there that he learned about the Selkirk SROAM program – the first of its kind in Canada — and immediately signed up. Once he graduated, he began the climb of ski hill success, including heading overseas to help establish a ski resort in Japan. Coming back to Canada, Paccagnan took on leadership positions across B.C. and into Quebec, as well as in Colorado.

Continued on page 23...

Invermere auxiliary delighted by declaration

By James Rose Special to the Pioneer The B.C. government recently declared May 10th as Healthcare Auxiliary Day. The Honourable Judith Guichon, Lieutenant Governor of the Province of British Columbia made the declaration at the annual meeting of the British Columbia Association of Healthcare Auxiliaries. The Invermere Auxiliary had four representatives at the conference.

“The declaration recognizes the contribution of the volunteers auxiliaries across the province,” said Francois Aubin, operations manager of the Invermere Thrift Store which in turn is managed by the Invermere Health Care Auxiliary Society (IHCAS). “In 2016, the 80 member auxiliaries reported over 1 million volunteer hours, contributing over $8 million in funding to enhance health care in this province.”

Mr. Aubin believes the recognition of the tremendous contribution of our auxiliary volunteers helps to

maintain the spirit in our pool of volunteers and attract new volunteers to keep the outstanding service going. “Public awareness of the contribution made by the Auxiliary keeps donations coming,” he said.

IHCAS volunteers have been active in Invermere for over 50 years. Recognized as a charitable organization by the Canada Revenue Agency, in 2016 IHCAS contributed $177,922. Since 2001, the organization has contributed $1.6 million paid out to the community, including $53,000 in bursaries and scholarships.

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May 12, 2017

The Columbia Valley Pioneer 11 Page•11

What’s Happening in the Columbia Valley

Music • visual arts • dining • Bar Scene • entertainment • performance ARTS

Wardens come to town

ROCK SHOW

PAGE 14

NEW CAFE

PAGE 16

The Banff-based Wardens — a band composed of former and current Parks Canada wardens — will be delighting Invermere music lovers once again with what is sure to be a sold-out show at Pynelogs on Saturday, May 20th. See story on page 11.

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

Photo submitted

Thu May 18th from 7 to 9 pm The Wardens return to Pynelogs Sat May 20th at 7 pm · Tickets at Pynelogs

Pynelogs: columbiavalleyarts.com 250.342.4423 / Cafe Allium: cafeallium.com 250.342.0316 · Cafe Allium OPEN at Pynelogs Tues to Sun from 11 to 4 pm

12 • The Columbia Valley Pioneer

May 12, 2017

Banff band bringing back their musical blend seen perform at Panorama’s High Notes Festival) at Rebeltone Ranch Studio, the album boasts a renowned group of supporting musicians.

“Our careers have seen us get dangerously Popular Banff based band The Wardens are close to grizzly bears which served as the basis for bringing their blend of original mountain music the song ‘Wheels On The Wildlife Trap’, fight to Invermere’s Pynelogs on Saturday, May 20th. devastating forest fires (‘Backfire’), and take part The three piece band has a very strong following in the historic return of buffalo to Banff Nationin Western Canada with shows quickly selling al Park in 2017 (‘Sleeping Buffalo’),” said Mr. out. Their music blends folk, roots, and western Ward. “We also preserve heroic tales from park styles and perhaps is best described as a piece of history in songs such as ‘Lantern Heart’, ‘Troop Canadiana that reflects the pristine wilderness of Train’ and ‘The Ballad of Bill Neish’”. the Rocky Mountains.

Complementing their live performance is Throughout their performances, Scott Ward a slide show that plays behind the band as they (guitar), Bradley Bischoff (guitar), and Ray play their way through their set. “The slideshow Schmidt (bass/mandolin) share stories drawing is great for giving people who may have not been on over 60 years of working to protect Canada’s to these parts of the world imagery of what exmost prized landscapes as park wardens.

PARK PALS — The Wardens are playing Pynelogs on May 20th. actly we are singing about,” said Mr. Ward.

The trio have performed at Folk Alliance In Photo submitted On why he thinks the band has done as well ternational, the Canmore Folk Fest, and the Alberta Showcase and shared the stage with Blue Rodeo, Paul Brandt, and many others. as they have, Mr. Ward pinpoints their success to the subject matter in which they “We have played Pynelogs twice before as part of the Wings Over the Rockies form the basis for their music.

“Our music resonates as strongly as it does with people from all over western Festival and each time there was a full house,” said Scott Ward. “This time the show is independent of the festival but we are still really looking forward to playing the Canada because it speaks largely to the mountain culture that is so important to our identity as Canadians.” venue and connecting with our fanbase.”

Tickets for the show are $20 and can be purchased at Pynelogs. Doors are open The Wardens’ second full-length album, Sleeping Buffalo (release April 28th, 2017), features twelve tales of mountain legends, tragedy, the regeneration of a spe- at 6 p.m. and the two hour show starts at 7 p.m. For more information on the band cies, and the landscape of love. Produced by Leeroy Stagger (who you may have visit banffwardens.com.

By James Rose Special to the Pioneer

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May 12, 2017

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, May 12th

• 1 - 3 p.m.: Brain Injury Support Group meets on the 3rd Monday of the month at Columbia Garden Village. Contact Debbie for more info 250-344-5674.

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

Tuesday, May 16th • 1:30 p.m.: Carpet Bowling at Canal Flats Seniors Hall every Tuesday.

• 6:30 to 8:30 p.m.: Options for Sexual Health operates a drop in clinic in the Public Health Unit the 1st and 3rd Tuesday of the month. Call 250-342-2360 for info.

• 10 p.m.: Karaoke at the Farside Pub in Fairmont every Tuesday night.

Buying or selling?

Cell: 250•341•1395 Toll Free: 1•888•258•9911

Saturday, May 13th

Sunday, May 14th • 8 p.m.: Compassion Machine (formerly Anneda) Live at Shakmans - A celestial duo from Victoria whose musical milieu spans the early sounds of folk, jazz, and blues, to intergalactic atmospheres and supernova rock and roll. No cover.

Monday, May 15th • 10 a.m.: Senior Singalong Group meets every Monday at Garden Village.

• 12 p.m.: 15th Annual Turn Copper into Gold Golf Tournament at Fairmont Mountainside Golf Course.

Shotgun start. Funds raised will go towards supporting both Chambers in the Columbia Valley. Register at www.cvchamber.ca.

Friday, May 19th • Invermere Caregiver’s Support Group meets the 3rd Friday of each month. Contact facilitator Leanne Brooks at 250-341-5683 for more information.

• 10:30 a.m.: Baby Rhyme Time at the Invermere Public Library for parents and babies 0-24 months. Program is free, but you must pre-register. Runs every Friday from May 19th to June 23rd.

• 12 - 5 p.m.: Rotary hosts their annual Garage Sale at Deck Storage, Unit #56 in Athalmer. All proceeds go to supporting Rotary projects.

• 7 p.m.: Ted Alexander playing at the Farside Pub in Fairmont. Also on Saturday May 20th. .

Saturday, May 20th

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

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

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

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

• 7 p.m.: Columbia Valley Car Club meeting at Rocky River Grill (Breakfast Room of Kanata Inn). Owning a classic car is not a necessity to join. All car enthusiasts welcome! For more info call Vicki at 250-342-1257.

• 11 a.m. - 4 p.m.: DTSS Graduating Class of 2017 are holding a Carwash at Syndicate Board Shop to raise money for the local “Dry Grad” event.

• 1 - 4 p.m.: Wings Over the Rockies Children’s Festival at Pothole Park with mechanical bugs, Sprinkles the clown, crafts, giant games and more. In the event of rain the Wings Fest Children’s Festival will be held in the Invermere Community Hall.

• 5 - 9:30 p.m.: Wings over the Rockies Festival Gala at Fairmont Hot Springs Resort. Live & Silent Auction.

• 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.

Call 250-342-3033 for more info.

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

Wednesday, May 17th • 8 a.m.: Radium Hot Springs Sunrise Rotary meets for breakfast every 1st and 3rd Wednesday from April thru October at The Springs golf course. Breakfast $10.

• 10 a.m.: Breastfeeding Mommas support group meets the 3rd Wednesday of each month at the Invermere Library.

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

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

• 2 p.m.: Genealogy Group meets at Columbia Gardens Coffee Room the 3rd Wednesday of the month.

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

• 7 p.m.: Windermere Valley Minor Hockey Association AGM at Eddie Mountain Memorial Arena in the Windermere Valley Minor Hockey Room.

Thursday, May 18th • 4:30 - 6 p.m.: Summit Youth Centre Chef-It-Up. Every Thursday. Call 250-342-3033 for more info.

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

• 5:30 - 7:30 p.m.: At Circle Cafe: Wild Ideas: Coexisting With Bears. A casual discussion hosted by Wildsight and led by WildSafe BC’s Andrea Smillie. Visit wildsight.ca/ invermere for details.

• 8 a.m. - 12:30 p.m.: Rotary hosts the 2nd day of their annual Garage Sale next to the courthouse in Invermere.

• 9 a.m. - 4 p.m.: Garage/Yard Sale at the Fairmont Community Den, 5003 Hot Springs Rd. If you would like someone to pick up your donated items, call 250341-7150.

• 10 a.m. - 4 p.m.: Enjoy the Little Things Spring Artisan Market, a fundraiser for Windermere Valley Child Care Society at the Invermere Community Hall. Cuisine by Chef Steve Root. For details contact Shannon Root 250-270-1402.

• 10 a.m. - 5:30 p.m.: Artym Gallery presents Armand Vallee, Vance Theoret & Jewellery for Men. Also Sunday May 21st, 11 a.m. - 3 p.m. Show continues till May 26th.

• 5 p.m.: Steamboat Mountain Music Society Launch Party at the Edgewater Hall. Full wine & beer bar, Italian Dinner at 6 p.m., Dance at 8 p.m. with music

by L8. Renew your membership, buy Festival tickets and more! Launch Party Dinner and Dance Tickets $20 available at Pip’s Country Store in Edgewater, Big Horn Cafe in Radium and Circle Cafe in Invermere.

Dance only, $10 at the door.

• 6 - 9 p.m.: The Wardens, live at Pynelogs present Music From the Mountains. Tickets $20 available at Pynelogs. Doors open 6 p.m., show begins at 7 p.m.

• 7:30 p.m.: The classical trio La Cafamore performs at Christ Church Trinity. Tickets are $15 for adults, $12 for seniors and students and children under 12 are free.

Tickets available at Avenue in downtown Invermere.

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. and Sat. 11 a.m.

• Drop-in Lego Club: Saturday 2:30 - 4:30 p.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.

• Lego for all ages: Saturday 10 a.m.

14 • The Columbia Valley Pioneer

May 12, 2017

Compassion Machine delivers edgy, raw sounds are constantly traveling and enjoy meeting their audience, and sharing with them some of the stories behind the music. “But we’re also rock and rollers, and we love to get the The self-described celestial psychedelic energy of the crowd moving into a bit of a rock and roll duo Compassion Machine are frenzy when it’s appropriate.” ready for the road again and are bringing After a successful series of shows last Autheir brand of music to Invermere for the gust that took them from Vancouver Island first time. On Sunday, May 14th the band to Saskatchewan, this summer the band is will play Shakman’s Bar. Compassion Maadding gigs in Ontario, Quebec, and the chine is the new name of a quickly evolving Maritime Provinces. “The tour begins in project consisting of lead vocalist and guitarMay through to the end of June with dates ist Charlene Birkbeck and drummer Lucas being added daily,” commented Mr. McKinMcKinnon. non.

“We were previously known as Anneda, Compassion Machine is excited to play and we just recently returned from a season Invermere for the first time. “Neither of us in Australia writing and performing new mahave been there, but if its anything like the terial that is surging with contagious energy rest of the Columbia Valley, that is fresh and exuberance,” said Mr. McKinnon.

One of the band’s primary concerns is A MUSIC MACHINE — Shakman’s Bar in Invermere is hosting the rock and roll mountain air and beautiful forests, we are playing the venue appropriately. “We don’t duo Compassion Machine on May 14th.

Photo submitted more than happy to soak it in,” said Mr. want to blow people’s ear drums when McKinnon.

“We’ve both called British Columbia our home for so long – Lucas being Victoria they’re not expecting it, and we don’t have to in order to achieve our goal, which is to leave people wanting more,” said Mr. McKinnon. “Then, if we’ve stirred their ap- born and Anneda having spent the last decade plus on Vancouver Island – but now petites for what we consider our more edgy songs, we’ll bring that raw energy out. that we’re moving to Toronto following our summer tour, we are taking every opportuOr, if the audience is already at that point, we have no problem going straight for nity to enjoy what this province has to offer. We’re sure Invermere will not disappoint.”

The show will start at 8 p.m. There’s no cover and Shakman’s will feature a four the more up-beat stuff.”

In essence, Compassion Machine sees themselves as folk musicians because they dollar wine special.

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May 12, 2017

The Columbia Valley Pioneer • 15

Forum seeks to help people better understand bears

By Lorene Keitch Pioneer Staff Living in the Columbia Valley means nature is at our doorsteps. But with that great access comes the responsibility to know about the species we co-exist with, such as bears.

Wildsight is hosting a free event next week to look at this important species and to break down myths and address human-wildlife conflict both in the backcountry and in our communities.

“People tend to view bears as either scary and menacing, or loveable and exciting,” says Wildsafe BC’s Andrea Smillie, who will be the speaker at the forum. “The first often leads to poor attractant management; for example, bears (and other wildlife) become known as a “nuisance” when waste is strewn around the neighborhood, when in reality it is something we can prevent from happening by taking responsibility.”

People who view bears as loveable and exciting often create a higher potential for conflict, says Ms. Smillie.

“For example, at this time of year it is common to see bears next to the highway in Kootenay Park. Even when a no-stopping zone is in effect, people stop to take photos and even crowd sows with cubs,” she said.

The forum will focus on breaking down these preconceived notions about bears, to promote a better understanding of them and to answer some common questions posed by the public, Ms. Smillie reports.

She hopes both residents and visitors come to participate in the open discussion.

“Many people have good intentions and already know a lot about bears, but don’t know all the facts. The end goal is to reduce the potential for conflict,” explains Ms. Smillie. “We share the landscape with them and coexisting means respecting their space and understanding their habits.”

And she hopes the knowledge gained will lead to changed behaviour by humans, which will lead to better results for bears.

“You don’t have to be a wildlife biologist to understand the basic habits of bears. I want others to walk away with the same basic knowledge that I have, so that we experience less conflict this year,” said Ms. Smilie. “Wouldn’t it be great if we didn’t hear about bears being destroyed this season, which happens every fall? We have to start thinking about that now.”

This is a key time of year to refresh your memory or learn something new about bears, as they are now out of their dens and looking for food. As the Wildsafe community coordinator, Ms. Smillie has already had reports this year of bears getting into bird feeders and compost bins around Invermere.

Wild Ideas: Coexisting with Bears, takes place at the Circle Café at Frater Landing Thursday, May 18th at 5:30 p.m.

For more information about Wildsafe BC, check out their Facebook page: WildSafeBC Columbia Valley, or email Ms. Smillie at Invermere@wildsafebc.com.

Sole Sisters Running Group For girls in grade 5 to 8

Sole Sisters Running Group is BACK! Sole Sisters is a fun and empowering program that teaches the benefits of healthy activities and healthy choices through running. Girls will explore topics such as self-esteem, body image, stress reduction, confidence, goal setting, and more. The Sole Sisters will work toward completing a fun run at the end of the program.

This FREE 6-week program is offered by Family Dynamix and East Kootenay Addiction Services. This program is open to girls residing in the Columbia Valley and will be held every Tuesday from 3:30 pm to 5 pm in Invermere, starting on May 23rd 2017. For more information and registration, please contact: Magali Larochelle at mlarochelle@familydynamix.ca or at 250-342-5566. Deadline for registration is May, 16th, 2017.

• • • •

Manual and remote control awnings Retractable shade and insect screens Aluminum fencing Retractable screen doors for large openings • Storm Doors • Aluminum picket and Glass railing systems

Harold Hazelaar www.hdrailings.ca

Ph 250.342.7656 sales@hdrailings.ca

Bruno’s Plumbing Service Mike Sylvestre 250.342.5105 brunosplumbing@shaw.ca Serving The Columbia Valley

For all your interior/exterior paint & stain needs

Best Paints 335 Third Ave, Invermere 250-342-7353

Spring is here and so is the Sikkens Proluxe!

Sikkens® Proluxe Wood Stains and Finishes

What is Bereavement Programming?

Hospice runs several bereavement programs including visitation, walk and talks and bereavement support groups for various forms of grief. The purpose of all programs is to assist in converting grief to mourning so that the individual can move through the grieving process and know they are not alone and they are not going crazy.

If you are grieving and need some help, give us a call 250-688-1143.

Cranbrook/Invermere

Proud Sponsors of the Hospice Society

www.hospicesocietycv.com

16 • The Columbia Valley Pioneer

Presents

May 12, 2017

Ted Alexander

Playing Friday and Saturday May 19th/20th at 7 pm

KARAOKE

Every Tuesday night at 10pm Fairmont Frontage Rd, Fairmont Hot Springs • 250-345-6106

COME CELEBRATE! Rose and April have your taste buds at heart!

From Rose as a local Western lady to April as an East coaster, they promise to have your taste buds in ecstasy. From hearty and filling soups down to desserts to die for.

Our promise - leave full and satisified. Or, your dessert is free and the cost won’t leave your wallet empty.

The Skookum Inn Restaurant is open from 8 a.m. until 8 p.m. weekdays, closing at 9 p.m. on Friday and Saturday. Mondays are closed to prepare for your coming in the following days.

Skookum Family Restaurant 470 Highway 93/95, Windermere B.C.

778-526-5262 Myth: Change your ads all the time. Readers get tired of the same thing.

Reality: Develop a good campaign, or theme for your ads. Stick with that one campaign, and only make small changes of headlines or details. Call Dean or Amanda at 250-341-6299 to find out more.

N E W S PA P E R

8, 1008 8th Ave. Invermere, B.C. Ph: (250) 341-6299 Fax: 1-855-377-0312

winderberry.ca

www.columbiavalleypioneer.com • info@columbiavalleypioneer.com

ALLIUM AT THE LAKE — The new eating establishment at Pynelogs called Allium Cafe, named after the flowering plants that produce the likes of onions and garlics, is holding its soft opening on May 17th.

File photo

New cafe in operation at Pynelogs

By James Rose Special to the Pioneer Pynelogs Cultural Centre is welcoming a new café opening for business just in time for the busy summer season. Allium, as the new establishment will be named (and which, for those curious, is the genus of monocotyledonous flowering plants that includes onions, garlic and many other tasty foods), is the brainchild of Megan Ballard and Martin Collis.

The 70-seat cafe will feature a menu that focuses on serving an eclectic range of dishes from culinary traditions around the world, yet all the while using locally grown produce and protein as frequently as possible.

“We want to offer fusion-style dishes that combine the best elements of dishes from places like India and Vietnam,” said Ms. Ballard. “But we are keen to use locally grown products and be as close as we can to a complete farm-to-table concept.”

The British born Mr. Collis is an experienced chef, who in his career has owned a variety of different businesses and restaurants. Before coming to Canada, he participated in a unique project involving the conver-

Mother’s Day Magic

Heirloom & Specialty Tomato Sale Sat & Sun : Over 25 varieties

Nursery is fully stocked with Trees, Shrubs + Perennials Bulk Mulch, Garden Soil + Compost

Planters starting at $12.99 Colourful Carousel Hanging Baskets only $24.99

sion of an old run down mill into a restaurant that served produce grown on adjacent lands using traditional English gardening methods that did not rely upon the use of any chemicals or pesticides. At the time, the concept predated the soon to come farm-totable movement. “But for us it was a fun project that just made sense to do,” he said.

Drawing from her experience owning a café in India for five years, Ms. Ballard (who was born and raised and returned to the valley from her time abroad two years ago), will strive to cultivate an atmosphere in Allium that is equal parts relaxed, casual, and efficient.

The décor will feature unique, quirky pieces that complement the fantastic location of the café right on the shores of Lake Windermere.

Allium’s soft opening is slated for May 17th and will feature a lunch menu while the official grand opening (set to take place the week after the May long weekend), will introduce the evening dinner menu.

“We are going to be open year round and offer unique things like Sunday plated brunches, themed food nights from different places around the world,” said Mr. Collis.

We put the LOVE into LOCAL!

Gift Certificates available

Bring MOM by on Mother’s Day to enter our draw to win a $100 gift certificate Hwy 93/95 Windermere Open Monday to Saturday 9 - 5 pm and Sunday 10 - 4 pm Fridays in May we’re open ‘til 8 pm 250-342-3236

May 12, 2017

The Columbia Valley Pioneer • 17

Fusion Spa under new management

By James Rose Special to the Pioneer Fusion Wellness Spa has new owners and officially is reopening for business today (Friday, May 12th). The business was started in 2007, and has operated as one of the Invermere area’s most beloved spas ever since.

“When the opportunity presented itself to take over from previous owner Barbara Mullen, we knew it was a perfect fit,” said one of the new co-owners Jennifer Peden. Ms. Peden, along with Stacy Douglas, previously owned S&J Spa Services. Prior to S&J both worked at Fusion and have been in the spa industry for years. “It was an easy decision,” commented Ms. Peden on taking over the business.

Stacy Douglas has lived in the Valley since 2005, and along with her four children has settled in nicely and is actively involved in almost everything Invermere has to offer. Ms. Douglas graduated in 1999 from the Massage Therapy program at Mount Royal University and began her career working in a chiropractic clinic. She moved around a bit before making Invermere her home and started with Fusion at the company’s inception.

“I graduated from the Massage Therapy College of Manitoba in 1997; after years working in the spa industry in Whistler B.C., I met my husband in Calgary,

where we decided the mountains were calling and settled in the Columbia Valley in 2007,” said Ms. Peden.

Taking over Fusion Wellness Spa was a natural decision for these new co-owners with their wealth of education, knowledge and experience.

“What sets Fusion apart is its concept, blending wellness and self-care with a little decadence and spoiling,” said Ms. Peden. “It is the biggest and most equipped spa in the Columbia Valley, with the capacity to handle large groups comfortably and some of the best-trained staff in the industry.”

Fusion offers a wide range of services, from massage therapy to microdermabrasion and cold laser. “If it’s offered in the spa industry, there’s a good chance it’s on Fusion’s Spa menu,” said Ms. Peden. Fusion prides itself on continual education and the upgrading of skills with all of its practitioners. “We also like to keep our finger on the pulse of new trends,” said Ms. Peden. “Services coming soon include microblading, lava shell massage, and Thai massage.”

For more information on Fusion Wellness Spa visit fusionwellnessspa.com, or stop in anytime. “Fusion strives to exceed all guests’ expectations, and live up to our reputation as Invermere’s premier spa. Stay tuned for more spa offerings and events at Fusion Wellness Spa,” said Ms. Peden.

Zone Team qualifier for junior golfers at Copper Point Golf Club

winderberry.ca

By Nikki Fredrikson Pioneer Staff Up and coming junior golfers have the opportunity to qualify for the B.C. Junior Championship and becoming an athlete on the East Kootenay zone team at this weekend’s Junior Golf Tour competition held at Copper Point. The tournament is set for Sunday, May 14th and is the first of four competitions in the Junior Golf Tour.

Copper Point was approached by the B.C. Golf Association to host one of the golf events, as the tour is part of a junior level (age 18 and under) circuit.

With both noncompetitive and competitive flights avalible.

“If they play in the competitive side of things they can receive points based on how they finish and how they place in the tournament, which helps them

qualify for a provincial championship,” said Scott McClain, head golf professional at Copper Point.

Mr. McClain said that the event is a stepping stone for future competitions and is great to get kids involved and excited about golf.

“It’s about having fun but it’s also for them to try some competition. It’s individual competition which we call stroke play and they go out and play- a) against the golf course, and b) against other competitors based on how they shoot,” said Mr. McClain.

Copper Point is asking for golfers to register for the event in advance so tee times can be lined up prior to the event.

Registration is $50 for 18 holes of golf, a meal and prizes. Parents can register their children by calling the golf shop 250-341-3392 or by emailing Mr. McClain at smcclain@copperpointgolf.com.

INTERIORS

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Spencer Cotie 250-342-6264 • spencer@warwick-interiors.com

Shake a tree in Edgewater, and a musician will fall out… ~ Mickey Maione Tickets: $20 for dinner and dance Dance only $10 at the door

STEAMBOAT MOUNTAIN MUSIC SOCIETY

LAUNCH PARTY

Edgewater Hall, 5 pm Saturday, May 20th • Full Wine & Beer Bar $5/ticket • Italian Dinner at 6 pm • Dance at 8 pm • Music by L8 Renew Your Membership Buy Festival Tickets Guitar Raffle Tickets Duck Race Tickets

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LAUNCH PARTY TICKETS AVAILABLE AT: Pip’s Country Store, Edgewater Big Horn Cafe, Radium Circle Café, Invermere

Tony’s Greek Grill

Tony’s Greek Grill In Fairmont

HAPPY MOTHER’S DAY

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• Donair • Souvlaki • falafel • Spanakopita • kalamari • greek salad • Hamburgers and more!

• Fresh Fruit Smoothies • Frozen Yogurt • Hard Ice Cream • Milk Shakes

5009 Hot Springs Road 250-345-6661

EDIBLES FARM + CAFE + CATERING Get yer veg!

We’re getting ready for another season of fresh, certified organic vegetables grown right here in Windermere.

There are a few spots left in our CSA Veg Box program - Ask today!

Toast Mum

Join us on Mother’s Day for an extended Breakfast menu, Eggs Benny Edibles style and a delectable collection of mini cakes

Local Food

Offering creative and locally inspired menu ideas for your special event.

Call Randy at 250-341-5330

Fun Friday nights in May ~ open until 8 pm for BBQ picnic dinners and late night shopping

18 • The Columbia Valley Pioneer Get the

May 12, 2017

smile deserve! you

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eadership

on-the-go Submitted by Elizabeth Shopland

There is a lovely seasonal shift in the Valley going on as the trees begin to blush green and blossoms reveal themselves.

Businesses, individuals and families are also shifting gears to ready themselves for the upcoming busy summer season.

Let’s look through the lens of businesses first and your leadership growth. Many of you have year-round staff and now new additions have joined you for the season. It’s important to remind yourself that, “it’s not about you and it’s about you”. As a leader, your role is critical to bring out the best in your team through both inspiration and to be accountable for the results.

Most leaders tend to be out of balance and both elements are equally as important to the results you want to create. Three guiding principles for team productivity and success include creating a culture of involvement, sharing the business and department goals/objectives and fuelling a happy and results based work climate. When you create an environment that includes friendliness, respect, taking personal responsibility, accountability, being informed, exceeding expectations and maintaining a positive attitude, this sets you, your team and your customers up for success.

As you work consistently with your team to be in alignment, the results will come back tenfold on both accountability and inspiration. Your customers and

staff will be more loyal to your brand, enthusiasm and retention will increase.

Keep in mind, you and your staff not only have an opportunity to grow, nurture and promote your specific business, you also have an entire Valley experience to promote to visitors and locals alike.

Lead your team with a fourway win style of attitude — win for the business, win for the team, win for the Valley and win for the individual! As the leader, you set the context for how this season is about to unfold.

Summers can be a fun, relaxing and exceptionally busy in our personal lives as well. Nurture your own personal leadership this season and set your own context. Take some time to reflect on where you may be out of alignment with what’s important to you. On a piece of paper, make five circles and label each circle with the areas of your “life landscape” that are important to you this summer.

Examples may include and are not limited to, family/friends, recreation/sports, finances, spirituality and healthy mind/ body. Using a scare of one to ten (one = very unsatisfied and ten = extremely satisfied), write a number inside each circle of where you are today on that scale.

Then, on the outside of each circle, write the number of where you would like to be on or before September 1st, 2017.

Context is everything and whether it’s your leadership at work, personal life or both, it’s up to you to get aligned, intentional and excited about what you are creating!

Elizabeth M. Shopland is the owner of Nature Inspired Living Co., and a Certified Leadership Facilitator and Coach. Visit her website at www.natureinspiredlivingco.com.

SEEL FOREST PRODUCTS

May 12, 2017

The Columbia Valley Pioneer • 19

F

or the past few weeks and months Columbia River-Revelstoke residents have seen and heard a lot from the candidates vying to become the riding’s next MLA, learning about their opinions on everything from the economy and the environment to softwood lumber and senior care.

But strip away the political trappings, the party colours, the grip-and-grin photo ops, and those omnipresent election signs (spread like weeds across the valley), and just who are Doug Clovechok, Gerry Taft, Samson Boyer, Duncan McLeod, and Justin Hooles? (*Rylan Kashuba declined to be interviewed). With the election now wrapped up, in the best tradition of the newspaper, the Pioneer — “the people’s paper” — invites you to....

MEET THE PEOPLE BEHIND THE CANDIDATES

PAPA DOUG the OUTDOORSMAN

By Nikki Fredrikson Pioneer Staff Born in Calgary but raised in the Valley, you could say it’s fate that led Doug Clovechok to build a recreational property in Dutch Creek that would become the permanent home he shares with his wife Susan. Known for his work with the College of the Rockies, Mr. Clovechok got his start working on the railroad before realizing he should pursue post-secondary education.

“My first real job, I was a signal maintainer’s helper for the Canadian Pacific Railroad and I was 17. So I lived in Irvine Alberta which is just about on the border of Alberta and Saskatchewan. I lived in the Irvine Hotel, I did that for about a year and then I realized I like working for the railroad but I think I got to go to school,” said Doug.

After taking a year of general studies Doug realized teaching might be a good fit for him and pursued education studies.

“I always enjoyed being around kids. I just love the energy that comes from them and the enthusiasm,

and the hope and the brightness that they bring to this world,” said Doug.

A little over 10 years ago Doug and Susan decided to pack their bags leaving their life in Calgary behind to move into their recreational property in Dutch Creek.

“Susan and I decided we wanted to change our lifestyles. I was working in the corporate world and she was working in the corporate world, and we decided we were going to move to Dutch Creek and we’ll figure it out when we get here. And we did,” said Doug.

As an avid outdoorsman, the move couldn’t have been more perfect for Doug, as he now has access to all his favourite activities — fishing, hunting, golfing, and lawn maintenance — right outside his door.

“I’m one of those guys that’s pretty anal about their grass, so I like to make sure that my grass looks really nice.

I’m a little OCD when it comes to my grass,” said Doug.

The obsession with his lawn care has gone so far that it has morphed a competition between he and his neighbour, Glenn Findlay, over who

has the greener lawn. Susan added Mr. Findlay is going to lose this year because he’s got seven puppies. His love for a manicured lawn is so deep he even lists caring for his grass as part of his perfect day.

“Perfect Saturday for me would be to wake up early, go for a good walk with Susan, come home and have her make me this amazing breakfast,” said Doug. “Then my perfect Saturday would also involve my grandkids. My granddaughters love to fish, so every they are out here, we’re always up at the creek fishing. By afternoon I’d be on my lawn tractor cutting my grass and then watering it, and having a nice barbecue. We have a nice fire pit in the back. To sit around that in the evening and have a nice fire with friends, that would be my perfect Saturday.”

Known as Papa to his four grandkids, Doug’s love for the outdoors has rubbed off on his granddaughters who spend a lot of time exploring the backcountry behind the Clovechok’s home.

“The little one loves to ride her bike around the development so we jump on our bikes and we go for long rides but we spend a lot of time down by the creek throwing rocks. Or just exploring. Those kids just love the outdoors,” said Doug.

With two granddaughters, aged eight and three and a half, and two grandsons, aged three and a half and a year and a half, Doug has started teaching his oldest granddaughter how to golf with her own set of clubs.

Continued on page 28. . .

20 • The Columbia Valley Pioneer

GERRY the ICE CREAM MAN

May 12, 2017

By Steve Hubrecht Pioneer Staff Invermere residents have become accustomed, over the years, to the sight of mayor Gerry Taft driving an outsized, bright red ice cream truck, emblazoned with the name of his Gerry’s Gelati business, through the town’s streets.

On the back of his considerable entrepreneurial success, Gerry has become synonymous with ice cream — or gelato, to be more accurate — over the past decade and a half. Seemingly half the valley has been in the shop at one point or another, watching in hungry anticipation as Gerry stuffs scoopfuls of sugary dairy goodness into a cone. But not many may realize that the old-school red truck dovetails just as nicely with Gerry’s long standing passion for classic cars as it does with his business.

Gerry’s dad was a mechanic (who for years ran Napa auto parts), with a penchant for hot rods. In fact it was Gerry’s dad who rebuilt what is now the Strand’s restaurant van.

“I grew up around old cars. I didn’t inherit any of the mechanical talents of my dad, but I still seem to gravitate to classic cars,” he told The Pioneer, conceding that his all-time favourite was his dad’s neon green 1937 Ford Coup. “My sister and I rode around in it quite a bit. My dad used to take us on Sunday night cruises with other old car owners. After, we’d go to an old gas station and mini-golf course in Radium. Funny enough, that’s the mini-golf course I later owned (as part of the Radium Gerry’s Gelati location).”

Gerry’s classic car enthusiasm is no passing fancy — the iconic red ice cream truck was purchased in Vancouver during a Union of British Columbia Municipalities (UBCM) meeting, and Gerry then actually drove the clunky box of a vehicle all the way back to Invermere on his own. The six cylinder propane truck is anything but sleek and the drive was a long one.

Continued on page 27. . .

JUSTIN

the MEDIEVAL RE-ENACTOR

By Lorene Keitch Pioneer Staff With an infectious laugh and a personable nature, Justin Hooles is easily likeable.

Justin was born and raised in Kimberley, surrounded by friends and family. As a young kid, Justin liked to take electronics apart and see how they worked – an early schooling that paid off as an adult. He now does his own car and cellphone repairs.

On a nice summer weekend, Justin can be found at the beach or on a giant party raft with some friends at the lake. His family has a cabin at Moyie, so Justin has grown up around the water and has a deep

appreciation for the East Kootenay.

One of Justin’s more unique hobbies is his involvement in a medieval re-enactment group whose membership spans the globe.

“We make a lot of stuff, have archery tournaments, jousting, arts and science projects,” he explains.

Right now, he is hooked on mostly the Viking period, but “jumps around” quite a bit with his interests. The Society for Creative Anachronism includes members from across the globe. Kimberley’s kingdom stretches through Alberta, Saskatchewan and “a tiny piece of BC that was cut to include the Cranbrook / Kimberley group,” Justin explains.

His day job is a roofer, a line of work that provides an honest day’s pay for an honest day’s work. Justin explains when he was in a management position elsewhere, he found that when the bottom line is money, people lose. As a roofer, he appreciates the honesty of the work.

May 12, 2017

The Columbia Valley Pioneer • 21

SAMSON the BEEKEEPER

By Lorene Keitch Pioneer Staff Just who is Samson Boyer, ‘the kid’ with the shaggy mop of blond hair who ran under the Green Party banner?

Samson, a homeschooled kid from Columere Park, spent his summers swimming, canoeing, even doing a bit of fishing or golfing at Coy’s golf course up the road. He says he is definitely a glass half-full type of guy.

“I’m somewhat of a positive person,” Samson says of his

outlook on life. “I think we can always do better; the world is a truly exceptional place that I think we take for granted.”

One of Samson’s hobbies is beekeeping.

“I always had an interest in insects, but especially bees,” Samson states. “There’s nothing like it. The smell of fresh beeswax and honey­– it’s a very unique smell.”

Samson puts out about 30 pounds of honey a year, which he gives mostly to neighbours, friends, and family. He has a few towers of hives, kept safely behind an electric fence at the Winderberry Farm in Windermere.

“It’s something I want to get into more full-time,” he admits, “But at the moment I just enjoy it as a hobby.”

What is involved in beekeeping?

“They need a lot of care, and you need to be respectful of course,” says Samson. “But mostly, you need to give them proper medication, keep them warm in the winter and they do most of the work on their own.”

Samson,18, has had a few jobs so far in his life.

“Discounting any

DUNCAN the GLOBETROTTING TEACHER

By Nikki Fredrikson Pioneer Staff Twenty-one years ago when Duncan McLeod got married he had no idea his wedding day would have such a large tie to Star Wars. It’s something his five children ranging from 19 years old to seven years old ask — why they didn’t dress up like Star Wars characters on the big day. According to Duncan in 1996 no one was referring to May 4th the way they do now, referencing the pun “May the fourth be with you”.

Straight out of university Duncan and his wife began teaching overseas in Japan. For the first year and a half the pair explored the country, enjoying their time as a young couple. When they found out they were pregnant with their eldest child, they took their maternity leave and returned to Canada to have their daughter. When she was just six weeks old they traveled back to Japan to continue working as teachers.

“It was enlightening in terms of our overall experience. It was expanding because it allowed us to interact with people differently, it allowed us to experience different things in the Japanese culture and their systems

for doing things, and it really was a dividing line,” said Duncan.

As new parents, they had to take their baby once a month to a public health outreach service called a Well Baby Clinic, where doctors and nurses would evaluate their child.

“That was a really neat approach to ensuring that infants were progressing in a healthy way and also in a structured way, and an interesting approach to public health in regard to childcare,” said Duncan.

The McLeods moved back to Kimberley B.C. after being away since 1988. Having lived in South America, Japan, Alberta, and Ontario travel has been an integral part of his life.

“It broadens your perspective and widens your horizons too, and so that’s an important part of who we are and in terms of how we act as parents, and as educators too,” said Duncan.

After traveling across the globe Duncan said his favourite place is still British Columbia. Getting outdoors and exploring B.C. is something he and his family often do on the weekends, spending the summers kayaking and mountain biking and skiing in the winter.

work beforehand such as babysitting, definitely my first job was working at the ski hill,” says Samson. He started at Fairmont Hot Springs Resort ski area when he was 15, as a ski instructor.

“It’s been a pretty good job, you get to go on the ski hill every day,” he shares.

Samson has also worked at the hot springs pool as a lifeguard and at the Columbia Valley Chamber of Commerce.

Samson is the oldest of three siblings, each with very different hobbies. His brother is an avid computer gamer and coder, while his sister is a fan of outdoor recreation and sports.

Running a political campaign has been a learning experience and he says this will not be the last you hear of Samson Boyer.

“It’s definitely something I wish to pursue in the future,” says Samson. “I might give it another swing in four years. This definitely gives me a greater view of the community: what people’s concerns are as well as what they want to see different.”

Now that the election is over, Samson plans to head off to university to become a lawyer.

“I want to help people and I think the law is something quite interesting, and it’s something I’d like to pursue,” concludes Samson.

22 • The Columbia Valley Pioneer

May 12, 2017

On election night, the thrill of victory. . .

By Lorene Keitch Pioneer Staff In a resounding victory, Doug Clovechok won the B.C. provincial election on the evening of Tuesday, May 9th. With 45.75 per cent of the vote, Mr. Clovechok turned the Columbia River-Revelstoke riding from orange into red with the Liberal party win.

The room buzzed as supporters watched the numbers rolling in from ballots across the riding, seeing Mr. Clovechok’s margin widen throughout the evening.

Mr. Clovechok himself sat patiently, waiting to celebrate until the TV coverage being played on the big screen called the riding result. When it was finally announced, the crowd erupted in cheers and adulations for their man of the hour.

“This is really surreal, I’m kind of numb,” Mr. Clovechok said. “I just can’t thank everybody enough.”

He said he was humbled by the team that helped him achieve victory, and made special mention to his wife Susan for her support.

“There was times during this campaign… that I was struggling, and she got me through that,” Mr. Clovechok shared.

Susan was at the campaign office with the campaign manager until after the election was called. When she showed up at Al Millers’ house where Liberal supporters were celebrating, the emotions ran high for both of them.

“I’m beyond proud of him,” Susan said. “Doug de-

CELEBRATORY CREW — the Clovechoks and friends whoop it up at the Millers’ house, after Doug Clovechok was elected Columbia River-Revelstoke MLA on the night of Tuesday, May 9th.

Photo by Lorene Keitch served to win because he’s worked really, really hard.”

Mr. Clovechok received dozens of phone calls for quotes and congratulations, one from former East Kootenay MLA Bill Bennett.

“I think he’ll be an outstanding MLA,” Bennett told The Pioneer. “Hard work is a really important component of being an effective MLA, and Doug has proven over the last four years he likes to work.”

This riding has been an NDP stronghold for five of

the last six elections, with Wendy McMahon in 2001 as the last Liberal MLA for the riding. Her campaign manager from that election was there to support Mr. Clovechok last night. Wilda Schab said the climate of 2001 to now is similar, that people were looking for change.

“I believe now today, with Doug Clovechok, people in Columbia River-Revelstoke riding wanted change,” said Ms. Schab. “We want representation, and Doug is the man.”

. . . and the agony of defeat

By Nikki Fredrikson Pioneer Staff Election night started off filled with hope, nerves, and anticipation to see the results start coming in from the 84 ballot boxes spread across the Columbia River-Revelstoke riding. NDP candidate Gerry Taft entered the evening feeling positive, eager to see the results from an election that he’s worked his whole career for.

“It’s definitely a little bit nerve racking but on the same hand it’s also exciting. For a long time May 9th seemed so far away and now we’re finally getting close to it, so it’s real. It’s really exciting to be that close and start to see the numbers,” said Mr. Taft, at the start of the evening of Tuesday, May 9th.

With a roomful of family and long-time NDP supporters, the crowd initially maintained an upbeat attitude as the results began to roll in.

As the Liberals began to take the lead, however, a wave of tension swept over the room although a flicker of hope never diminished. Ultimately though, having worked in municipal politics for 15 years, this would be the first time Mr. Taft had experienced electoral defeat.

“You usually build on political success, having done

the mayor’s position. It’s the first time I’ve ever lost an election, ever, Since I was 20. I’ve been doing it for 15 years and so I know a lot of people speculate or ask, if you’ve been in local government a long time, are you planning to move up? So it is kind of thought to be a progression,” said Mr. Taft.

Joy Orr, campaign manager for Mr. Taft, said “we always discuss every scenario, you prepare your candidate, but this was not the outcome we expected.”

“Gerry’s going to be an important part of the NDP in this area for a good long time. This is just one part of the work that he does for us. Everyone’s going to have a good long sleep tonight and we’ll regroup in the morning and Gerry’s going to have to make some decisions as to what he wants to do,” said Ms. Orr. Mr. Taft told The Pioneer that he would love the opportunity to run again adding “I still feel that I have the experience and I could be a really good representative for the area.”

Having sold his business — Gerry’s Gelati — Mr. Taft now has to begin to think of what to do next in terms of work. “I had no plan B. This (the campaign) was plan A. Obviously I’ve sold my business and so, yeah, I guess tomorrow I’ll start thinking about that,” said Mr. Taft.

SECOND PLACE — A dejected Gerry Taft checks updates on his phone as polls roll in late on election night and Mr. Clovechok’s lead widens.

Photo by Nikki Fredrikson

May 12, 2017

The Columbia Valley Pioneer • 23 . . . ‘Panorama’ from page 10 He most recently spent eight years up the road at Kicking Horse Mountain Resort in Golden before returning to where it all began. From a lowly bellman more than 30 years ago to his current position as president and CEO, Paccagnan has been at the helm of Panorama since 2013.

Paccagnan says the SROAM program was instrumental in helping him get started on his career path.

He encourages students today to look into programs such as SROAM at Selkirk or those found at the College of the Rockies.

“People should take advantage of the programs we have in the Kootenays – it’s a great place to live and

a great place to have a career.”

Of course, the ski industry itself has changed greatly over the past 30 years Paccagnan has been in the business. “There’s been a maturing of the industry, going from the mom and pop era to really focusing on tourism and business as a whole,” Paccagnan explains.

But what hasn’t changed in all that time is the appeal of skiing. For Panorama, this past year saw continued growth in newer markets such as New Zealand, Australia, Germany and the United Kingdom.

“We’ve seen significant growth – double digits, almost triple digits, coming out of New Zealand and Australia,” he says.

For more information on the SROAM program, see http://www.selkirk.ca/program/ski.

Regional District of East Kootenay

DANDELION DELIGHT — Kids at Dragonfly Discovery Centre marvel at some of spring’s first flowers.

Photo submitted

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24 • The Columbia Valley Pioneer

May 12, 2017

Celebrating M ther’s Day

Fledgling politician has his mother to thank

By Lorene Keitch Pioneer Staff For Tracy Connery, this will be a Mother’s Day she will always remember. Not because of anything special her kids are planning for her. Not because of a big trip or a small jewelry box or any other memento of affection.

Tracy, a mom of three in Fairmont Hot Springs, will most likely remember this Mother’s Day as the weekend after her first-born son’s name was on the ballot for the 2017 provincial election.

Tracy is Samson Boyer’s mom, who just received 11.44 per cent of the vote in Tuesday evening’s election running under the Green Party banner. At 18 years of age, Boyer was the youngest name on the ballot, young enough to still be living at home.

It was not a big surprise to Tracy or Samson’s dad

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cided to homeschool their children when Samson was in elementary school, and Tracy admits Samson probably would not be where he is at today without that move.

The kids grew up in their lovingly built cabin in Columere Park, surrounded by friends and neighbours. Samson started his schooling at Martin Morigeau Elementary School in Canal Flats. Unfortunately, by Grade 4, his reading skills were so far behind it was starting to affect him.

“The rubber hits the road in Grade 4,” Tracy recalls.

“He’d loved school. He loved being there. But by the end of November that year, he said ‘I want to home school.’”

After they pulled Samson out, it wasn’t long before his younger brother Gus followed suit. By the time Coral was school-aged, the ‘unschooling’ model of education A MOTHER’S LOVE —Tracy Connery with her three was not even a question. Tracy has taught all three of kids: Samson (back), Gus (front left) and Coral (front right). her kids since then. They call it unschooling as it is a

Photo submitted different style of teaching than homeschooling. It is very Philip when Samson said he wanted to run. He had cam- much interest and child-led.

“We went free range,” Tracy explains. paigned for the Green Party candidate in the last federal They still keep up with reporting, but it is less about election. And Tracy explains in the last few years, Samson has become more focused on politics, especially as the three R’s and more about meeting her kids where he watched the U.S. election. When he heard about a they are at in learning and helping them to achieve aca19-year old MPP elected in Ontario, it helped him see demic goals in a way that works for them. It gave the family the flexibility to travel to places like Mexico and the potential of putting his own name on the ballot. the U.S. east coast, to have the freeAs his mom, Tracy has seen The Boyer-Connery family (left to right) dom and to raise kids in a less presthe impact the campaign has Coral, Samson, Philip, Tracy, Gus. sured environment. had on Samson. She saw him

Photo submitted “Our kids have learned to learn grow and learn quickly through independently.” the experience, to really know She says while this model of the topics and embrace the role. learning is not for every family, for And his public speaking transthem it was the best choice. formed rapidly. Tracy says his Tracy has a long history in the first all-candidate meeting in Valley. Her family moved to WindRevelstoke was, “mildly cringeermere when she was a teenager, and worthy.” she graduated from DTSS. After high But by the second and third school, she went to a couple of postmeetings, “To see the progress secondary institutions and ended up from event to event, and to see with an English degree in her pocket his level of comfort now,” was a and traveling plans on the horizon. It proud transition for a mom to was while traveling in Costa Rica that watch. she met a handsome American stayThe family has been suping at the same “fleabag hotel.” portive of Samson, and Tracy It wasn’t long before they were admits it is easier that his valmarried and living in northern Virues align with hers and Philip’s when it comes to voting. She laughs that if he had run ginia. They were able to buy a very affordable property in under another party banner, it might have been harder to Fairmont Hot Springs and planned to eventually build a cabin there. Since Philip worked remotely, they moved check ‘Boyer’ on the ballot.

While the family has been supportive, Tracy admit- to Fairmont to watch Tracy’s parent’s place when they ted everyone would be glad when the election is over and went traveling, and built their cabin. They liked the area so much they decided to stay. Tracy and Philip loved raisthey can talk about something else.

For Tracy, it is moments like this that reaffirm the ing kids in Columere Park.

Continued on page 25 . . . choices she and Philip have made as parents. They de-

May 12, 2017

The Columbia Valley Pioneer • 25

Celebrating M ther’s Day

Peer group supports local moms

By Lorene Keitch Pioneer Staff Mother’s Day is cute cards and squished dandelions given with love; hugs from grown-up kids or phonecalls from far away. But for new moms, Mother’s Day might be just another day of trying to figure out how to get the hang of raising a baby. It is a steep learning curve and oftentimes, moms can feel like they’re all alone on the journey.

That is where a group like the Breastfeeding Mommas comes in. This local support group is available for moms to share tips, discuss problems and find friendship.

Invermere coordinator Jennifer Cope says there tends to be a range of women who come to the meetings.

“They have different breastfeeding journeys,” Ms. Cope explains.

She encourages moms to do what works best for their families when it comes to breastfeeding, and that the peer support group is there to help and encourage

mothers in whatever they choose. The meetings cover a variety of topics from bringing baby home right through to weaning.

The Invermere Breastfeeding Mommas group is part of a larger network throughout the East Kootenays. Daleen Bybee, co-ordinator for the groups based in Cranbrook, Kimberley, Fernie, Sparwood and Invermere, says research shows that the more support breastfeeding moms have, the better their chances at meeting their breastfeeding goals. Ms.Bybee encourages new and more experienced moms to come to the next local meeting.

“Meetings work well with a mixture of moms: moms who are new, first time moms having trouble, veteran moms who had been along the road once or twice or more,” Ms. Bybee says.

The breastfeeding support group meets the third Wednesday of every month at the Invermere library, 10 a.m. The event includes snacks, provided by The Early Years. The next meeting is Wednesday, May 17th. In honour of Mother’s Day, attending moms will receive a special gift.

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. . . ‘Fledgling’ from page 24 “We were fortunate. There happened to be other families here — our timing was right,” says Tracy. “The neighborhood has always provided.”

Many people know Tracy as the very talented photographer of Tracy Connery Photography. It was while living in the U.S. that Tracy took some photography classes during her free time. She was convinced by a friend to shoot a wedding.

“I was thrust into it,” says Tracy. Before she knew it, she was shooting weddings all over the region, quickly shooting multiple weddings a weekend. She brought her business with her when they moved to Fairmont. Now she finds time for photography as well as web and social media work for clients. It keeps her busy while still having a flexible schedule for her kids. It is while doing newborn photo shoots that Tracy thinks back on her own children’s early years. She watches the exhausted parents and says she wishes when her kids were young that she had stressed out a little less.

“Enjoy every second,” she says. “It goes so fast.”

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26 • The Columbia Valley Pioneer

May 12, 2017

Weekend Action This weekend in the Valley was jam packed with activities with a Harry Potter themed bash on Saturday, May 6th bringing together Harry Potter fans for a magical evening, the community hall was filled with community members sporting their best wizard outfits. On Sunday morning, runners and bikers participated in the Spring For The Community 6K trail run/mtn. bike event at Lake Lillian. Starting top left working counter clockwise: a group of runners participating in the run with their canine companions in tow, a display of the Columbia Valley Multi-Use Centre with participation fees of the event going towards the new centre, mountain bikers powering through the course, a group of wizards showing off their wands, the Delorme Family and the Rennie Family, Chris Gooch in mask, Crissy Stavrakov, Mya Gooch age nine and Maren Gooch age seven.

Race photos by Katie Watt, Harry Potter

by Nikki Fredrikson

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May 12, 2017 . . .‘Gerry’ from page 20 “The muffler was not working, so it was straight exhaust with a really loud sound. I was pretty slow, I think the top speed I hit was 80 kilometres an hour.

The only vehicle that I managed to pass on the whole trip was a truck that had smoke pouring from it on the Coquihalla,” said Gerry. “It took two full days.

On the first day, I ran out of propane and had to get towed into Salmon Arm.” Other classic vehicles in Gerry’s fleet included a low rider 1962 Bel Air and a rough old Chevy pickup – but those, along with the ice cream truck, were sold to new Gerry’s Gelati owners Crystal Leonard and Stuart Cope late last year.

As it turns out, the cars’ absence left a bit of an unexpected void, and to fill it, Gerry recently purchased a blue-ish white 1955 Oldsmobile, buying it over the Internet without checking it out in person first.

“It really did look at lot more blue than white in the photos. And the rust didn’t seem that prominent. I guess that’s what happens when you buy cars online,” he said with a sigh as he showed his new beauty off to The Pioneer. “But Kelvin (Gerry’s two-year-old son) still

The Columbia Valley Pioneer • 27

calls it ‘nice car’. I’m not sure that Nozomi (Gerry’s partner) agrees with him, but that’s what he calls it.”

Kelvin, the Valley’s 2015 New Year’s baby, has brought a welcome new element to Gerry’s life.

“Having a child really changes the mix. You finally realize it’s impossible to do everything, and you start looking for ways to spend more time with your family,” he said, adding there were days at the gelato store last summer that saw Nozomi mixing a batch of gelato in the back, while Gerry and Kelvin rang customers through the till together up front.

Balancing multiple roles is nothing new for Gerry, who said he found a pleasant contrast between running the gelato store and being mayor.

“Sometimes, on the municipal side, the problems seem so big, it feels like you’re never actually getting anything done. So it’s nice to then go and make a batch of ice cream, or even just mop the floor. You’ve finally accomplished something. But if you spend too much time mopping, you feel you’re not living up to your potential. It was good to balance the two,” he said.

Continued on page 40. . .

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28 • The Columbia Valley Pioneer

May 12, 2017

Museum work bees & Parker Peak Curator’s Corner

By J.D. Jeffery Museum Curator As our summer opening will be here next month, we are gearing up to be open seven days a week. This is the time when our volunteers come out and help clean and prepare the buildings for the visitors. If you have always wanted to see what is at the museum, this is your chance. On Wednesday, May 24th to Friday, May 26th we will be having cleaning bees. We want to invite anyone to come and join the group; starting at 10 a.m. and continue to at least 12 noon. This is a work task

but you will get to see behind the scenes of the museum and get to handle a few artifacts. Bring a rag and your lunch and you will get to work with someone while experiencing history up front and personal.

I was approached by a member of our community who introduced me to a landmark with a local connection that isn’t mentioned in our archives. Parker Peak is a landmark that I just learned about in April and which only got its name after 1978. To start the story, two friends, Kevin Root and John Parker, decided to climb a peak in the Selkirks in April 1977. According to my current details, Mr. Parker was Australian who had lived in the Windermere Valley for several years before the two gentlemen decided to be the first to ascend the peak. A year later in June, Mr. Parker passed away after being in an underwater diving accident in Kelowna. To

Otters find temporary home at Copper Point

By Steve Hubrecht Pioneer Staff The Columbia Valley Otters swim club have been splashing in a different location the past few weeks, practicing and training at the outdoor pool at Copper Point Resort, while the cool pool at Radium Hot Springs undergoes its annual spring maintenance closure.

The swim club is in the same situation each year, coach Karen Fahrni told The Pioneer, saying that “for two weeks each year we have to look for an alternate location to swim. Copper Point Resort have been happy to help us and we are grateful they have been letting us use their outdoor pool three days a week.”

“When the Columbia Valley Otters approached us to use our pool while the Radium facilities are undergoing annual maintenance,

Your Local

honor the man, John’s friends made a request to name the landmark Parker Peak. If I get more details on this particular landmark, I will share it with you in future articles.

As I have covered many mountains named after people, the following landmarks get their names from other sources: Redstreak Mountain and Redstreak Campground get their name from the band of red colored rock on the mountain. The next names have descriptions: Split Peak is named because the peak is split, Spar Mountain is spar shaped and Sharp Mountain is – you guessed it – sharp!

Come to the museum starting June 1st and tour all the buildings as we will be open daily 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Learn more about what’s happening at the museum by visiting www.windermerevalleymuseum.ca.

. . .‘Papa Doug’ from page 19

we of course said yes,” said Copper Point Resort general manager Richard Bingham. “We did not want their programs disrupted during the maintenance. We also know the importance of the Radium Pools and the positive impact they have on the Valley. It is important for this maintenance to happen not only for the Otters to continue their programs but also for all visitors coming to the Valley who enjoy swimming at the Radium Pools. This is our little part in helping support the community.”

Ms. Fahrni outlined that the resort has helped by putting up a former Olympian/swim coach for free, “which really helps up put on a high level training opportunity for our club, but still keep it affordable.”

The resort is also giving free accommodation to volunteers and officials in town for an event hosted by the Otters on June 4th.

Doug has even developed a special skill playing faeries with his two granddaughters, doing creative voices and accents for different characters. Papa also spends time teaching his eldest granddaugther archery in the back yard when she’s visiting.

“We got her a compound bow. We’ve got a deer set up in the back, so I’m teaching her how to do that. Her mother’s an accomplished bow hunter, so it kinda runs in the genes,” said Doug.

Doug has two daughters and a son, and will soon be welcoming a new addition to the family — a puppy named Charlie. Susan is looking forward to the puppy just as much as Doug, but warned they’ll have to train Charlie not to go on Doug’s pristine lawn.

Susan described her husband as loyal, committed, and creative when it comes to problem-solving.

“Before we dated when we’d be sitting on boards or committee meetings together, it always astounded me how there’d be a problem and how he could problem solve. It was really quite creative; he could find solutions and just get things done,” said Susan.

Doug, describing meeting Susan, said “she chased me like a dog.”

When asked to describe himself in three words he said — loyal probably to a fault; caring; and “I like getting things done I’m an action driven guy”.

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The Columbia Valley Pioneer • 29

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30 • The Columbia Valley Pioneer

May 12, 2017

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(Formerly Dehart)

Christopher Jones

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

• Civil Earthworks

Quality not quantity Sue Coy

250-341-5353 sdcoy@shaw.ca

Lloyd Wilder

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

UPHOLSTERY

INSURANCE

PHARMACY

LAMBERT-KIPP

Lambert

250.439.8074

goldenupholstery1960@gmail.com

Box 53, Brisco, B.C. V0A 1B0

P H A R M A C Y LT D .

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

Come in and browse our giftware

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

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

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

1301 - 7th Avenue, Invermere

250-342-6612

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

May 12, 2017

The Columbia Valley Pioneer • 31

here to serve you Services

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32 • The Columbia Valley Pioneer

May 12, 2017

Gerry’s Gelati introduces waffle creations

By Nikki Fredrikson Pioneer Staff It’s not just a fresh coat of paint that’s changed at Gerry’s Gelati — the menu has gotten a revamp as well, with new gelati flavours and waffles too.

New owners Crystal Lenoard and Stuart Cope have been experimenting with new flavour creations, and officially rolling out nine waffle options.

“Three different sweet ones (waffles), and then the sweet one that you can build your own. So you

can pick whatever gelato flavour and then whatever chocolate sauce or caramel sauce you want,” said Ms. Leonard. “Then we have a few savoury ones.

Right now we have five, but then we’re actually going to add one more for the summer.”

Currently, Ms. Leonard said her favourite of the waffle creations is called zippidy-do-da which is made with Dave’s hot pepper jelly, brie cheese, roasted garlic, and arugula. The co-owners will be scooping up some more new gelati flavours throughout the summer, so make sure to pop in and see what they have.

GELATI SHOP REFRESHED — New paint, new flavours and new menu items are all the rage at Invermere’s downtown gelati shop.

Photo by Nikki Fredrikson

NEW DIGS — Local dance troupe United Dance has found a new home in the Industrial Park.

File photo

Dancers on the move

By Lorene Keitch Pioneer Staff

Local dancers will soon have a dance floor to call their own.

United Dance, a recent addition to Invermere’s business community, has been renting space at the Invermere Community Hall for its two seasons of operations. Melissa Hecher, who co-owns the company with Meesh Jensen, says they were told in no uncertain terms that the Community Hall would not be available for use once the new centre is completed.

“We’ve known about the hall since last June,” says Ms. Hecher. “The district did let us know they would end up tearing down the old hall.”

Kindry Luyendyk, corporate officer for the District of Invermere, confirmed the old hall will at some point be torn down after the new community hall is up and running.

Ms. Hecher says their company was starting to outgrow the current space anyway, with 115 dancers registered. The dance school runs programs for children aged two and a half up to adults, and includes ballet, jazz, tap, hip hop, lyrical, contemporary and musical theatre dance styles.

They take possession of their new place June 1st, down in the Industrial Park at 400 Laurier Street.

The Invermere Judo Club currently operates out of the old fire hall, which is connected to the old community hall. That club will be moving their classes into the new centre this fall.

here to serve you services

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

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Patco Developments Ltd. PROFESSIONAL PAINTERS

services

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May 12, 2017

The Columbia Valley Pioneer • 33

Pioneer Classifieds garage sales

garage sales

garage sales

cheers & jeers

Multi-family Garage Sale, lots of items. Sat. May 13th, 9 a.m. - 1:30 p.m. no early birds please. Sunrise Condos, Radium Hot Springs.

Garage Sale: 1722 13th Ave. on May 13th at the Welch residence.

10 a.m. - 3 p.m.

Estate Sale: 109 10th Ave. Invermere, Sat. May 13th, 9 a.m. - 4 p.m.

Cheers to the generous person who bought me my coffee and muffins for the team this morning at Tim Hortons.

s obituary s Hecher, Rudolf John 1926 – 2017

It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of Rudolf John Hecher, beloved father, brother and grandfather.

Rudy was born July 29th, 1926 Mikelhofe, Austria. He was the youngest of three children. He moved to Dragunchuk, Austria to live with his uncle after his mother passed away from tuberculosis. Rudy was only three yrs. old when his mom passed away. He worked on his uncle’s farm. Just down the road he was neighbors to Elisabeth Hecher. As a young man Rudy was called to join the army at the age of 17yrs old. During World War 2 he ended up becoming a prisoner of war from the Russian army. When the war ended they let him go. His family had not heard from Rudy for so long they thought he had perished in the war. In 1949 he immigrated to Canada with his sister Mitzi to be reunited with his father Rudy Sr, stepmother Anna and his sister Kathryn. He started working at their store Rudy’s General Merchant. The store served the Columbia Valley. They knew they needed more storage so Rudy and his dad hand dug out a basement. A lot of work back then as no machinery was used. Rudy also worked at Ronacher’s Saw Mill until it burnt down. He worked for the Mill in Radium that changed hands over the years from Revelstoke saw mill to Slocan Forest Products. He worked there until his retirement in 1990. When he arrived in Canada he wrote to Elisabeth Hecher. He decided he wanted to marry an Austrian girl and Elisabeth had stolen his heart. She accepted his proposal over a letter and they were married June 25th/1960. They were blessed with three children, Peter, Daniel and Linda. Rudy worked very hard to provide for his young family.

Later as he retired he enjoyed going out with his sons and getting firewood.

He would even go to the house to split the wood and pile it. Rudy also enjoyed doing needlepoint. He had made numerous pictures and gave them to his children, grandchildren, and other family members. Rudy also donated one to the hospital and the Catholic Church.

He was a very proud grandfather, affectionately called Opa. Rudy never missed an opportunity to see his grandkids perform at school, dance recitals etc.

He was a man of few words but loved having his family around.

Rudy spent the last two months in Ivy House with Elisabeth until both of their passing. We take great comfort in knowing they are together again.

Rudy is predeceased by his loving wife Elisabeth, mother Mathilde, father Rudy Sr., brother Peter, sister Mitzi, brother in law Emmit. He is survived by his sons Peter (Karen), Dan (Leslie) Hecher, daughter Linda (Dennis) Gale, Melyssa (Ted) Hecher, Ashley Hecher, Ryan Gale, Michael Gale, step grandkids Tyler Hirscher, Tiffanie Hirscher and families.

Funeral mass for Rudy and Elisabeth Hecher will be held Monday, May 22nd at the Canadian Martyrs Catholic Church in Invermere 1 pm. Coffee tea and refreshments will be served immediately following in the church hall. In lieu of flowers donations can be made to the Invermere Hospital Auxiliary We would like to thank Dr. Walsh for Rudy’s care the last few years. We would also like to thank the staff at Ivy House for Rudy’s exceptional care. Dad did not like change but his transition went very smoothly. He was happy there.

Sat. May 13th, 8:30 a.m. - 1 p.m.

Multi-family. 12A Wolf Cres.

(Behind Tim Hortons) Perennials, furniture, grad shoes, wonder workshop, crafts and gifts, camping supplies.

Moving Sale on Saturday, May 20th and Sunday, May 21st from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. at 4966 Luxor Creek Road, Spur Valley Subdivision. Many antiques, collectibles, miscellaneous furniture, old Avon bottles, tools, and a variety of miscellaneous items.

cheers & jeers Cheers to my neighbor’s dog for fertilizing my garden! Fresh greens anyone?

Cheers to Wildsight and Michelle Taylor for the nature discovery challenge you ran at our Amazing Day. So great to have the students running around exploring and learning about nature as part of their Earth Day activities.

Cheers to Andrea Rainbow and her Mom Valerie for running the most popular event of the Amazing Day, The Donut Challenge! And Cheers to Deena Webber and Chenoa Paccagnan for stringing 440 donuts and cookie medals the afternoon before.

Cheers to Valley Fitness Centre for being the best fitness facility in the valley and having the friendliest staff!

Cheers to Theresa Wood, Main Street Fun & Games, the international students, volunteers, and all the witches and wizards who made the Wizarding Banquet a huge success. Well done!

Cheers to our friends and neighbors who helped make CB’s 60th birthday such a great party! I am blessed to have landed in Brisco where I found such big hearts and open arms. We love you all.

s obituary s Mohan, Victor April 6th, 1960 – May 5th, 2017

It is with great sadness we announce the passing of Vic in Cranbrook hospital after a lengthy illness.

Vic was born in Vancouver BC and moved to Invermere with his family in the summer of 1967.

He loved the outdoors played baseball hockey and skied he loved fishing and camping playing his guitar and violin Vic is survived by his mom Annette (Frank) Invermere Sister Deborah Naomi Desiree of England Shonagh Miranda Morgan) all of Surrey Brothers Ian Darran of Invermere (Ashley ) Chassity and Stanley) of Dawson Creek.

We will miss his kind and gentle nature. Have a great time up there and catch us a big one.

No service by request

• • • •

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

cheers & jeers

cheers & jeers

Cheers to Jami of CV Arts and Casja Cheers to Andrea Haworth and Jen from BlackStar Studios for and Catrien Dainard, our local designing and executing such an physiotherapist and occupational amazing photography challenge therapists for running our students for the J.A. Laird Amazing Day. So through a wheelchair accessibility very, very cool of you to donate challenge at our Amazing Day. It JEERS your time to our kids! CHEERS & was both educational and fun!

Sponsored by

Cheers to Kuba Sumak and the Kootenay Orienteering Club for making an orienteering map of Kinsmen Beach (no small task) and for the Amazing Map and Compass Orienteering challenge you designed and ran for the J.A. Laird students at their Amazing Day.

Cheers to Pizzeria Mercato for the great deal on pizza for a minor hockey wind up party. Your deal helped a great team to celebrate and tasted delicious. Your generosity did not go unnoticed and is very appreciated. We will all be back for your pizza soon.

Cheers to everyone for helping me out during the winter, crossing the streets, offering good advice, your humour and good times. You are greatly appreciated.

Cheers to our Fairmont Lions and Community Members who collected trash from our roadways on Saturday. Also Cheers to Barry for the great organizing, Adrian and Lara for the cookies, Peter and the Resort for the hot dogs and hamburgers and to our volunteers who had all ready with hot coffee at the Lions Den.

Cheers to Mary-Frances for great service over the years at Sears, you will be missed. Love my kitchen because of you.

Cheers to Lorene Keitch, “Speak up” editorial. Called up to an opportunity to be responsible is always valuable. Uncomfortable perhaps, always fair. Welcome to the voice of Pioneer in my valley.

Cheers to Amanda Helmer for helping me find the mosquito net I so desperately needed for my trip.

A Huge Cheers to Tim Hortons for donating enough coffee, donuts and muffins for the more than 70 people that came out to volunteer for J.A. Laird’s Amazing Day. Cheers to all those that took the time to get out and vote during the recent provincial election. And cheers to all of the candidates.

Big Cheers to the Rotary Club for organizing the community pitchin. Our communities sparkle more because of this club’s energy and effort to make this event happen.

Cheers to Valley Foods and Sobeys for donating pie throwing supplies and to Inspire Floral for their donation of 8 bouquets and to the Trading Post for donating gifts to thank the teachers for donating their faces. Together $3000 was raised for the Laird School Garden.

Great Huge Cheers to everyone who came out to the Annual Cemetry and Church cleanup at All Saints, Edgewater. You all do such a great job! Much appreciated.

34 • The Columbia Valley Pioneer

May 12, 2017

lost and found

suite for rent

misc. for sale

firewood

help wanted

help wanted

Found: Kayak Skirt by Columbia Lake. Please call 250-349-5280.

Windermere, bright, 2-bdrm, lower unit in quiet 4-plex with beautiful views, large yard area, separate parking + entrance, W/D included, N/P, $725/mo + electricity +D.D. Available July 1st to mature, responsible tenants. References required, call/text: 587-224-3132.

Heavy Lathe, like new with lots of tools. $970, 250-348-2431.

Support Rockies Hockey firewood.

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

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.

The Cedar Motel in Radium is seeking P/T Housekeepers for mid-May to the end of Sept.

Experience is an asset but will train a suitable candidate. Willing to work weekends, hardworking individuals who pay attention to detail. Contact Ed or Astrid Furger 250-347-9463.

Lost: Womens prescription sunglasses. Black clam shell case.

If you found them please call Cindy 403-660-9896. Lost between Valley Foods and Windermere Community Centre May 6th.

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.

FOR RENT 700 sq. ft. , $400/mo + GST, Utilities, D.D. Unit behind Dry Cleaners. FOR RENT 990 sq. ft. - Reception area + three offices. $600/mo + GST, utilities, D.D. By Back Door Wine Cellar. Call 250-342-6790 for both. Available immediately.

accom. wanted Mature couple looking for a 2-bdrm place in Invermere to rent for 6 months. 250-270-0274.

suite for rent Radium: Motel Bavaria, low low rates, daily, weekly, monthly.

Kitchenettes available. Call 250347-9915.

Fairmont Hot Springs: Large 1-bdrm suite, available immediately, fully furnished and equipped, beautiful views, N/S, N/P, includes T.V. and Wi-Fi, $800/mo + $800 D.D. 250345-6603.

Invermere: Bright 2-bdrm basement suite available June 1st. Close to downtown, W/D, N/S, $650/mo + utilities. Call/text Grant 403-493-1245.

house for rent Newer 1300 sq. ft., 2-bdrm, 2 bath, on secured Windermere acreage, with under drive garage. Available June 1st. $1250/mo. Call Mark (403) 519-0252.

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.

Radium The Peaks Complex, Birch (316). Loft unit 1450 sq. ft. living, dining, 2-bdrm, 3-washrooms.

Kitchen with all appliances + microwave/dishwasher. Laundry room with washer/dryer. Propane fireplace, heating, A/C, curtains/ blinds. One parking space/storage in the U/G parkade. Utilities include propane and electrical. Facility has an outdoor pool, hot tub and indoor hot tub. 2 balconies, 2700 of spectacular views. One Pet allowed at $75/mo. No partiers please. Call Jeff Owen 403-660-2120. $1375/ mo, utilities included.

COW MANURE, well aged, $120 per pick up load. Phone Elkhorn Ranch 250-342-1268.

Deluxe Aqua Marina boat, 9’ 11” x 4’ 11” (277 x 150 cm) Aludeck Jear 2016, new price $999.99 + tax, never used + E-motor + Deep cicl. battery, sale price $750 firm. 250348-2431.

Handy cap platform electric lift. 7.5’ screw drive with safety rails in new condition, $2500 O.B.O. Located in Columere Park B.C. 403-819-9010.

Home is done lots left over, all new including: Window flashing, J-Trim Joist Hangers, Sheathing Clips, Galvanized Nails, Cement Board Siding (approx. 50 pieces), Cement Board Shakes (approx. 20 pieces), Exterior Wood Grained Trim (1x6x16’, 1x7, 1x10),Treated Lumber (1x3x12’, 1x6x16’, 2x4x8 brown treated), MDF Moulding, 4 rolls landscape fabric. Call Don at 403-818-1070.

Hay for Sale: Small squares, 50 - 60 lbs. $5.50/bale. Edgewater 250347-9001.

TOOLS - Table saw, bench grinder, belt sander, compressor, clamps, Snap On toll Box, 200 psi power washer, wrenches, saws, ladders plus much more. 250-341-6018.

MOVING SALE - Furniture, tables, lamps, household kitchen appliances, electronics, etc. 250341-6018.

Small wood stove for sale, perfect for ice hut, $125 as is. 250-3415736.

boats for sale Boat: 2008 Crownline 19SS 19 ft. with 4.3 litre Mercury inboard with only 56 hours. Ski tower and sun awning. Perfect condition and fully serviced. With trailer Heritage Model and size CB19SLD-39 19.

Asking $22,500. Call 1-403-3908755.

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.

Starting June 1st book your Panorama cleaning with Resort Fresh Cleaners: resortfreshcleaners@gmail.com.

SOLÉ DECOR N’ MORE

Custom Blinds/drapery/ upholstery/flooring.

Hunter Douglas, Shade-O-Matic.

Serving Calgary/Columbia Valley.

Blind/fabic sale 60% off.

Contact Brenda 403-861-8782, soledecor@shaw.ca, www.

Studio222calgary.com.

B.B.’s Home Care Services:

mobile home

auto financing

For Sale 3-bdrm Mobile Home.

Williams Trailer Park. $45,000.

Phone 778-526-4868 or 250-4864007.

Residential cleaning, spring/yard clean up, house checks, handyman services. One call does it all! 250688-2897 or 403-861-8782.

DON’T PAY TOO MUCH ON YOUR NEXT AUTO LOAN!

lesson/training

Call Aaron at 1-778-517-8101

PAINT LIKE A PRO. Landscape workshop, Sat May 13th 10 a.m.

- 4 p.m. Free introduction Fri. 7 9 p.m. $70, bring Mom one half price. Call Patrick for details at 403-519-8268.

business for sale Business for Sale: Grant’s Foods, 503 7th Ave, Invermere, $59,000 includes everything.

Email gkelly2@telus.net.

Let us help save you money.

cranbrookautoloans.com

Helna’s Stube is looking for P/T dishwasher and kitchen help.

Email resume to mail@helnas.com or call 250-347-0047.

Earthstone Mobile spa is looking for sporadic, part time massage therapists and estheticians to help out doing mobile services in Fairmont, Invermere, Radium and Canal Flats. I will pay 60%, please contact Winnie for further information 250-688-2299.

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.

May 12, 2017

The Columbia Valley Pioneer • 35

help wanted

help wanted

help wanted

help wanted

The Old Salzburg Restaurant is now accepting applications for both front end and kitchen summer position. Please drop off resumes at restaurant or call 250-347-6553 ask for Scott or Ashley.

Fire’d Up Breakfast and Burgers in Radium is now looking for summer staff. Must be available for day and night shifts as well as weekends.

Drop resume off at the restaurant or email melpot@telus.net.

KMZ Traffic Control is looking for two certified traffic control people for summer employment. 250-3421182.

Fuze Food and Smoothies is currently hiring Summer employment.

Full time/Part time Seasonal hours.

Pizza and Line Cooks with experience. Nighttime dishwasher/prep.

Wages Starting at $13 plus free food and great tips. Fun, fast paced, exciting working environment.

Drop off resume at Fuze.

Dragonfly Discovery Centre is looking for a full time Early Childhood Educator. $20/hour Permanent or Temporary. dragonflydiscoverycentre@gmail.com.

Horsethief Pub is accepting applications for F/T, P/T Bartenders/ Servers. Must have Serving It Right, cash handling experience, excellent customer service skills, Positive attitude and be a strong team player. Apply with resume in person to Horsethief Creek Pub & Eatery, by email to horsethiefpub@telus.net or fax 250-347-9987.

Leo Burrito, Radium is looking for some heavy hitters to cook some mean burritos. Starting now. $14 - $20 per hour depending on experience + gratuity. Flexible hours. Free meals. Free mini-golf.

Fun times. Summit resume to info@leoburrito.com or call 250688-0561.

SECURITY GUARDS REQUIRED. Valley Hawk Security has positions available from May long weekend to Sept. long weekend. Day/ night shifts available. Must have BC Security Guard Licence. Email resume to valleyhawksecurity@ shaw.ca or call 250.688.4295 for more info.

The Black Forest is looking for full time kitchen help. Call, email or drop off resume. 250-342-9417, careers@blackforestrestaurant. com.

Seeking a motivated individual interested in joining a growing construction company. Must have experience, be physically fit, have own transportation and a positive attitude. Wage negotiable dependent on knowledge and skills. Immediate start. Please email resumes and references to JLBInnovations@hotmail.com.

Columbia Valley Sewer & Drain Ltd (formerly Dehart) is looking for a full-time seasonal laborer.

- Must be an ambitious, dedicated person willing to be an extra set of hands assisting other crew members on the vacuum truck, maintaining/moving portable toilets, cleaning trucks and other general shop labor.

- Class 5 Drivers License with clean drivers abstract is a must.

- Mechanical skills and the ability to work independently are assets.

- Resumes can be emailed to cvsad. ltd@gmail.com or faxed to 250342-0085.

Radium Subway is seeking F/T or P/T positions. Drop off resumes at the Radium Subway.

1 position available for the summer season for an energetic non-student 3 Full-time positions available to students for the summer season. Students must be coming from school and going back to school this fall.

Visitor Information Counsellor Destination BC Tourism/Visitor Information Counsellor Training will be provided.

Please email resumes to manager@radiumhotsprings.com Or drop off in person to Radium Chamber Office at 7556 Main St. East Radium Hot Springs Closing date Friday May 19th, 2017 at 5:00 pm MST For more information and job description, please call 250-347-9331 or email manager@radiumhotsprings.com

911611 BC Ltd. O/A Tim Hortons 496 Highway 93/95, Invermere BC, V0A 1K2

DQ Invermere is Hiring!

Food Service SuperviSor Permanent, Full-time, Part-time, Shift, Weekend, Day, Night, Evening $14.00 per hour • Start Date: ASAP # of Vacancies: 8 • Experience: 1-2 years Education: No Education Required Job Duties: • Supervise, coordinate and schedule the activities of staff who prepare, portion and serve food; • Participate in assisting to establish methods to meet work schedules; maintain records of stock, repairs, sales and wastage; • Train staff in job duties and sanitation and safety procedures; • Ensure that food and service meet quality control standards; • You may participate in the selection of food service staff and assist in the development of policies, procedures and budgets; • Maintain company and corporate adherence to standards, procedures and programs, and as updated from time to time; • Assist in ensuring optimal employee coverage at all times and fill in as required for various areas during busy periods to maintain optimal customer service levels.

Benefits: Medical and Dental Please apply via email at timhortons.invermere@gmail.com or in person at 496 Highway 93/95 Invermere, BC

If you are an enthusiastic & hard working individual looking for an organization which focuses on energizing & engaging its employees, send us your resume today!

PART-TIME SHUTTLE BUS DRIVERS | SECURITY GUARD SOUS CHEF | RETAIL SALES CLERK | CAFÉ ATTENDANTS We offer a competitive salary & benefits package with access to all Resort amenities, including golf, hot springs & skiing.

FairmontHotSprings.com 250.345.6070

Valley Visitor Services Network is looking to hire energetic, outgoing people with superior knowledge of our communities and assets in the Columbia Valley (Spillimacheen to Canal Flats) while working in a professional valley wide team atmosphere

TEAM MEMBERS WANTED Safta’s is now hiring cooks and dishwashers for the summer season! If you enjoy a fair working environment, great tip outs and a fun atmosphere- this is the place for you! No experience necessary, email your resume to israelifalafel@ gmail.com or drop off at Safta’s.

JOIN OUR WINNING TEAM!

Please send your resume to David Sheedy at hr@fhsr.com or fax to 250.345.6616.

FULL-TIME/PART-TIME HELP WANTED

time Didja know? We hire fulldule to & part-time. We’ll make a sche accomodate you!

Front Counter Attendant • • • • • • •

Full-time and part-time Take orders in front and Drive Thru Prepare Ice Cream orders Serve food to customers General Cleaning All training provided Fun and flexible work environment

• • • • •

Full-time and part-time Receive orders Prepare all food items Working the fryer Washing and preparing vegetables and salads General cleaning All training provided

• • • •

Must be able to work in a team environment Must be able to work in a fast paced environment and be able to multi task Advancement opportunities Wage to be determined based on experience

Kitchen Helper

• •

• • • • •

Must be able to work in a team environment Fun and flexible work environment Advancement opportunities Must be able to work in a fast paced environment and be able to multi task Wage to be determined based on experience

Apply in person at the DQ at 350 Laurier St., Invermere or by email dqinvermere@yahoo.ca

Fairmont Villa management at mountainside is now accepting full-time, part-time and student applications for our Housekeeping Department.

We offer year-round, competitive wages starting at $15 per hour, a generous benefit package and the use of our recreation centre and pools to successful applicants.

We are also accepting applications for one Van Inventory position, wage $15 - $18 per hour depending on experience and suitability for the position.

All of the above positions involve weekend work.

For more information on any of the above positions, please contact: Debbie Clark Phone: 250-345-6341 ext 22 Fax: Attention Debbie: 250-345-6299 Or Email: debbiec@mountainsidevillas.com

36 • The Columbia Valley Pioneer

May 12, 2017

JOE’s We’re looking for hardworking, energetic and reliable people just like you!

Cashier/Clerk Position Available No previous experience required Days/Nights/Weekends Apply in person.

471 Arrow Road, Invermere, B.C.

Kanata Invermere is hiring

Housekeepers

Seasonal work with potential for year-round employment.

Offering competitive wage plus summer retention bonus benefits after probation period. Physically demanding job in a fast-paced environment. Must have reliable transportation, a stong work ethic, flexible schedule and an ability to work as part of a team or individually.

Please apply with resume to 8888 Arrow Rd. fax 250-342-8889 or email to invermere@bcminns.com

911611 BC Ltd. O/A Tim Hortons 496 Highway 93/95, Invermere BC, V0A 1K2

Food Counter Attendant Full-time/Shift Work

Afternoon/Evening Shift, Weekends and Weekdays. $11.75/hour + medical/dental/group benefits

Apply via email: timhortons.invermere@gmail.com

HELP WANTED

Watershed Stewardship Assistant

GYMNASTICS COACHES

Lake Windermere Ambassadors - Invermere, BC

Seasonal Full-time, $14.00/hour Term: July 3 - Sept 8 (flexible) Cover letter & resume to: info@lakeambassadors.ca by May 19th.

See www.lakeambassadors.ca for more info.

Sobeys Invermere is now accepting applications for the following positions:

Produce Clerk, full-time Produce Clerks, part-time Cashiers, part-time Courtesy Clerks, part-time Meat Clerk, part-time Must be available to work days, evenings and weekends. Please apply at customer service.

Kanata Invermere is hiring

Front Desk / PT Night Auditor

Be part of our team at the newly renovated Kanata. Offering: Competitive wages PLUS summer retention bonus regular reviews and benefits after 3 months. Requirements: Computer knowledge, strong work ethic, reliable transportation, availability for shift work and weekends.

Please apply with resume to 8888 Arrow Rd. fax 250-342-8889 or email to invermere@bcminns.com

SHOP LOCAL and don’t forget to pick up your copy of the

N E W S PA P E R

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

SCHOOL DISTRICT NO. 6 (ROCKY MOUNTAIN)

TEMPORARY FULL-TIME

CARPENTER

School District No. 6 (Rocky Mountain) is located in the beautiful Columbia Valley spread over 270 kilometers along the Rocky Mountains and encompasses the communities of Golden, Invermere and Kimberley. The District is seeking a temporary, full-time (40 hrs/wk) Journeyman Carpenter, for the Windermere Zone effective June 1, 2017 to September 30, 2017.

This is skilled journeyman maintenance work on all School District facilities dealing with facility systems as they relate to carpentry work. Work is performed under the general direction of the Operations Supervisor in the Windermere Zone. There is general expectation that you will assist/perform in cross classification job assignments.

Completion of the 12th school grade or equivalent, a BC Certificate of Registration as a Journeyman Carpenter is required.

If you are interested in this position, please submit a resume, with three references, by 4:00 p.m. on Thursday, May 18, 2017 to: Meghan O’Neill Human Resources Coordinator School District No.6 (Rocky Mountain) P.O. Box 430 Invermere, B.C. V0A 1K0 Phone: (250) 342-9243 e-mail: hr@sd6.bc.ca Successful applicant will be subject to a criminal record search.

We are looking for individuals who are enthusiastic, responsible, and love working with children to join our recreational and competitive coaching team for the 2017-18 season (September to June). We have part-time and fulltime positions available. Our ideal candidates have some gymnastics coaching experience, a solid understanding of gymnastics fundamentals and skill progressions, outstanding interpersonal skills and have acquired NCCP Level 1. We are willing to train the right person. Positions include morning and/or evening hours. Compensation based on experience.

Qualifications • Minimum 18 years of age • NCCP Level 1 for recreation or Level 2 for competitive (or willingness to obtain) • Current First Aid/ CPR certification (or willing to obtain) • Police Record Check clearance • Valid driver’s license and reliable transportation A full job description, which includes responsibilities and prerequisites, is available upon request by emailing: contact@glacierpeaksgymnastics.com Please forward your resume with cover letter to: contact@glacierpeaksgymnastics.com Applications will be accepted until noon Friday May 19, 2017.

h e Pioneer ca T n

take you r do llar With 6,400 copies far in circulation each week, th er your message is resonating

!

with residents and visitors alike.

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

www.columbiavalleypioneer.com

May 12, 2017

The Columbia Valley Pioneer • 37

help wanted

help wanted

Columbia Valley Youth Network

JOB OPPORTUNITY

The newly formed Columbia Valley Youth Network (CVYN) is looking for a dynamic leader with a proven track record in working with and for youth. With core funding from the Columbia Basin Trust, our goals are clear:

Glass Installer

We are committed to: • Discovering gaps and barriers to current youth engagement; • Promoting, developing and increasing local activities for youth; • Providing diverse opportunities through support, advocacy and collaboration for youth; • Enabling youth to engage more with each other and their community; • Supporting collaborations and partnerships amongst those who work and interact with youth.

The resultant program delivery will be based on local youth priorities, identified by youth for youth aged 12 – 18 years in the Columbia Valley.

Posting Title: Columbia Valley Youth Coordinator – Contract Position Reporting to: The Columbia Valley Youth Network Oversight Committee Location: The Communities within the Columbia Valley, (Spillimacheen – Canal Flats, BC)

(Full-time, 3-5 years experience)

Invermere glass is seeking a full-time Journeyman Glazier or Glass Installer. The successful applicant must possess automotive glass installation skills; Residential installation including shower doors, mirrors and railings and sealed unit installation.

The applicant must possess good customer service skills and be able to deal with customers in a fast-paced environment.

If interested, please apply with a resume to the address below.

Compensation: $35,000- $39,000 based on experience (at 1300 hours July 1, 2017 – March 31, 2018)

#3, 109 Industrial #2, Invermere, B.C. 250-342-3659 Fax: 250-342-3620

Note: This contract will entail a variable shift depending on need with some evenings and weekends.

Responsibilities: The Coordinator will be responsible for the development and facilitation of a youth network within the Columbia Valley. The Coordinator will engage local youth in the development of priorities relating to the interests and needs of local youth between the ages of 12 and 18 years.

www.invermereglass.ca

The Successful applicant will demonstrate the following: 1. Exceptional understanding of youth and youth issues; 2. Ability to work with, empower and inspire youth through exceptional engagement skills; 3. A strong ability to collaborate with multi sector, local communities, municipal government, local business and community stakeholders; 4. Skilled at needs/gaps analysis that leads to program/service delivery; 5. Program development and delivery; 6. Excellent communication skills – written, oral, presentations; 7. Administration skills & computer skills including MS Office suite; 8. Experience with budget management and financial recordkeeping; 9. Program/client recordkeeping- Program participation statistics and client information; 10. Experience with social media, marketing and promotion; 11. Strong ability to work independently; 12. Awareness of support services for youth.

GOLF GROUP

BC’s #1 Golf Destination

CAREER OPPORTUNTY Food & Beverage Manager

Qualifications: The following certifications and qualifications will be viewed as an asset: • Post-secondary education or equivalent certification, relevant to working with youth and programming for youth; • Relevant experience managing programs and volunteers; • Standard First Aid & CPR ‘C’/AED or Equivalent; • Class 4 Drivers License preferred, minimum Class 5 required; • A combination of experience and education will be considered.

Interested applicants wishing to receive an information package on the Columbia Valley Youth Network and its goals and priorities can contact Pam Meunier 250-342-2019 or Pat Cope 250-688-0673.

The Radium Golf Group (RGG) is seeking a Food and Beverage Manager for its operations at the Springs and Radium Courses in Radium BC. The Food and Beverage Manager will be responsible for all aspects of the two operations including management of the on-site restaurants, halfway house snack operation and on-course beverage carts. This position forms part of the Senior Management team of the group.

Please forward applications to: CVYN@Familydynamix.ca

Responsibilities and Duties include, but are not limited to:

Deadline for applications is Wedneday, May 24 at 5 p.m. MST Only those applicants invited for an interview will be contacted.

• • •

Let us hammer out the details

• •

N E W S PA P E R

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

•

Oversee the Food and Beverage operations; Establish and implement appropriate controls over alcohol and food at both restaurants; Provide monthly reporting and analysis of results of operations; Hire and schedule staff as necessary to ensure proper function of all services; Appropriately market the operations, using agreed upon marketing channels, within the allocated marketing budget; Other ad hoc responsibilities and duties as required.

Required Experience and Qualifications: • • • • •

Minimum 10 year’s directly related Food and Beverage experience; Excellent organizational, management, leadership, communication and problem solving skills Experience with restaurant marketing would be an asset; Knowledge of Club Prophet would be an asset; Ability to handle conflicting deadlines and prioritize.

This is a contract position with a 5-month term. The contract may be extended to a full-time position depending on performance and company needs.

Interested and qualified candidates are invited to submit their resume and cover letter to employment@radiumgolf.ca. The deadline for submission is Monday May 22nd.

We thank all applicants for their interest but only candidates considered for an interview will be contacted.

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

38 • The Columbia Valley Pioneer

May 12, 2017

Food Service Supervisors Hiring: Salary: $14 per hour Permanent Position; Full-Time, Part-Time Shift work; All Shifts, Day, Evening, Weekend Start: ASAP 6 positions available 1 to 2 years Experience Required No Education requirements Job Duties: • Supervise, coordinate and schedule the activities of staff that prepare, portion and serve food; • Participate in assisting to establish methods to meet work schedules; maintain records of stock, repairs, sales and wastage; • Train staff in job duties and sanitation and safety procedures; • Ensure that food and service meet quality control standards; • May participate in the selection of food service staff and assist in the development of policies, procedures and budgets; • Maintain company and corporate adherence to standards, procedures and programs, and as updated from time to time; • Assist in ensuring optimal employee coverage at all times and fills in as required for various areas during busy periods to maintain optimal customer service levels

How to Apply; email: dqinvermere@yahoo.ca in person or by mail @ 350 Laurier St., Invermere, BC V0A 1K7

Wild Weekends

It’s becoming a tradition in the valley that Fairmont Hot Springs donates their pool the day before annual maintenance to the dogs of the Columbia Valley to come enjoy a swim. The event is a fundraiser for the Global Animal Lovers and Invermere Companion Animal Network. Panorama Mountain Resort is surprising mountain bikers with a bonus weekend of riding on May 20th and May 21st opening select downhill trails.

Pooch Plunge photos by Nikki Fredrikson, mountain bike photo submitted.

May 12, 2017

The Columbia Valley Pioneer • 39

FAITH

A Mother’s Love

By Pastor Trevor Hagan, Lake Windermere Alliance Church I remember the day that I was being an obstinate child and defiantly pushing back from the plans my Mom had for our family.

I remember that day, she held me tight in her arms and told me that her love would never let me go. I wrestled and pushed away desiring to do my own thing, she would not let me go.

I found this little story on Pinterest about a little boy and his Mom. A little boy and his mother were crossing a creek…

Mother: “Please hold my hand.”

Boy: “No Mom, you hold my hand.”

Mother: “What’s the difference?”

Boy: “If I hold your hand and something happens to me, chances are that I may let go… but if you hold my hand, I know for sure, you will never let my hand go.”

In the book of Isaiah 66:13 it is said about God, “I will comfort you there as a little one is comforted by its

mother.” In this simple statement, a mother’s love is a reflection of God’s love for each of us.

The first Mother’s Day was celebrated in West Virginia in 1912. Mothers were to be recognized as an important part of our culture and lives. The heart of a mother is like a rare jewel. They love their children during the worst and best of times.

Yet all mothers are not the same. Author and speaker Patsy Clairmont says, “normal is just a setting on your clothes dryer.” We are all different. She shared at a woman’s conference, that as women we may “struggle, fail, start over, and celebrate.” But we are mothers who can love unlike any other person.

Ephesians 6:1-3 helps us to know our responsibilities as children…

“Children, obey your parents; this is the right thing to do because God has placed them in authority over you. Honor your father and mother. This is the first of God’s Ten Commandments that ends with a promise.

And this is the promise: that if you honor your father and mother, yours will be a long life, full of blessing.

(Living Bible) No one will ever love you like your mother loves you. I miss you Mom. I look forward to meeting you again one day. How about you? Have you told her lately that you love her too?

In Memory of Al Wittke Chuck Newhouse, Joe Newhouse, Dave Gaspar and Jim Baker honoured the memory of Al Wittke, along with over 150 others, at Windermere Valley Golf Course on Thursday, May 4th. Mr. Wittke, former manager of the Edgewater and District Credit Union, passed away on February 14th, 2017.

Photo by Dean Midyette

LAKE WINDERMERE ALLIANCE CHURCH Sunday, May 14th 10:30 a.m.

Worship and Life Instruction Special Guest Speaker, Lisa Rohrick, International Worker to Niamey, West Africa.

No “SING and CELEBRATE” this evening.

“K.I.D.S.” Church, for children Ages 3-4 years: Kindergarten-Grade 1: and Grades 2-7, during the Morning Service.

Lead Pastor Trevor Hagan • Associate Pastor Matt Moore 326 - 10th Avenue, Invermere 250-342-9535 • www.lakewindermerealliance.org

Windermere Valley Shared Ministry ANGLICAN-UNITED Worship every Sunday, 10:30 a.m.

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

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

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

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

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

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

Christ Church Trinity, 110 - 7th Ave., Invermere Pastor Rev. David Morton • 250-417-5017 Radium Christian Fellowship Sunday 10 a.m. Worship service Pastor Wayne and Linda Frater • 250-342-6633 No. 4, 7553 Main St. Radium • 250-347-9937 Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints Worship Service, Sunday, 10 a.m. • Relief Society, 11:15 a.m.

President Rick Daniels • Columbia Valley Branch 5014 Fairway, Fairmont Hot Springs • 250-341-3756

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

40 • The Columbia Valley Pioneer

May 12, 2017

LETTERS . . . ‘Program’ from page 6 Ms. Bonell helped students develop evidence-based portfolios which can be used to apply for prior learning assessment credit at post-secondary institutions that offer an accredited Early Childhood Education program, which I believe will only make the community richer in the long-run.

In addition, students from the program tackled a provincially accredited health, safety and nutrition course through the Lethbridge College, so they can apply to the Ministry of Children and Family Development for an Early Childhood Educator Assistant Certificate after completing the program.

The East Kootenay region has the highest number of vacant early childhood educator positions in the B.C. interior, especially for early childhood

educators who have an Indigenous ancestry, according to a recent report published by the East Kootenay Child Care Task Force.

It is heart-warming to see a community triumph that caters to the shortage of qualified and trustworthy child care options, which are sorely limited.

While I sense many an eye roll and several throaty scoffs in tow for my enthusiasm for educational opportunities being funded by the community, as opposed to paid individually out of pocket, it has to be said that students here have now had the opportunity to enrich their lives as well as the lives of others. It would be in the community’s best interest to promote programs such as these moving forward.

Breanne Massey Invermere

. . . ‘Gerry’ from page 20 Gerry’s entrepreneurial career started early, when he tried selling Lego in Grade 3. He had two Kleenex boxes taped to his desk – one with pieces of lego in it, the other to collect money.

“At the end of the year, the Lego one was empty and there was not much money in the other box. So not a big success,” recalled Gerry, who nevertheless then announced to his parents his intention to open a Lego store in the valley and, upon seeing a business for sale, encouraged them to buy it, so he could open his store.

In the latter years of high school, Gerry had progressed to selling hot dogs from a cart outside Home Hardware (then located in downtown Invermere), renting sidewalk space from Home Hardware owner Al Miller to do so (more than a decade later the two men would square off as rivals in the 2011 Invermere mayoral election).

Gerry then ran a small shop in Fairmont Hot Springs, selling conventional, mass-produced ice cream and candy, before he took the University of Guelph’s ice cream technology course and decided

to start making his own gelato and set up shop right in Invermere.

“I financed the business by maxing out 20 different credit cards and accumulating a massive pile of debt,” he said. “I made all the gelato flavours at night, working almost right through the night, and then I’d sell them all day. I’d catch an hour or two nap on the couch outside on the veranda, but basically the store was open 24 hours a day. I’m still amazed I got through it financially and physically.”

The business expanded to include the Radium location/mini golf course (“I’m actually a terrible mini-golfer, and not that passionate about it, but the course is really popular with families”), and in 2011, Stolen Church coffee.

After a dozen years of crafting ice cream, Gerry’s favourite flavour in the store is still plain old pralines and cream (“sweet, salty, and simple”).

But, of course, there are a number of unofficial flavours, available only in special batches, by request from friends and family, and of those Gerry gives pride of place to his (delectably) infamous lime margarita sorbet with frozen tequila mixed in.

Our Grand Opening is May Long weekend!

Located under The Station Neighborhood Pub. Open Thursday, 4-8 pm, Friday and Saturday, 12-10 pm and Sunday, 12-8 pm.

Grand opening specials all weekend and also a gift basket draw.

The Rocky River Ownership group comprised of Justin Atterbury, Jason Powers, Paul Christy and Ricky Ebuenga began looking into creating a distillery after Atterbury’s wife made a successful batch of homemade Baileys Irish Cream. Though the new distillery has yet to come out with their own version of the popular liqueur, they have created a vodka, a gin, and a take-off tequila called “Tekila-Eh”.

“We wanted to have three products right out of the gate so that’s why we decided on these three,” said Atterbury. “We will keep introducing new products as time goes on. The opportunities are limitless in regards to what we can actually sell.”

The distillery, which is located right below the group’s Station Neighbourhood Pub at Kinsmen Beach, includes a tasting room where the public can try a free sample of the products, learn how to incorporate the distillery’s made-in-house bitters, and take in the views of the lake.

“Being a craft distillery, we thought it important for people to be able to sample the product because there is always that doubt of ‘What are these guys making, is it going to be any good’. Giving them a chance to actually taste it before buying a bottle we felt was quite important,” said Christy.