Kootenay residents face wait for rollout of COVID-19 vaccine - Valley Voice
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January 14, 2021 The Valley Voice 1
Volume 30, Number 1 January 14, 2021 Delivered to every home between Edgewood, Kaslo & South Slocan. Published bi-weekly.
Your independently owned regional community newspaper serving the Arrow Lakes, Slocan & North Kootenay Lake Valleys.
Kootenay residents face wait for rollout of COVID-19 vaccine
by John Boivin, Local Journalism When you get the shots (two It won’t be until late February or until three to four weeks ahead of media. In the meantime, Henry says
Initiative reporter injections are needed for both early March that the second phase delivery from the National Operations its important people not let their guard
The good news is there’s a vaccine vaccines) depends on where you fall of the rollout begins. In that round, Committee overseeing countrywide down.
for the coronavirus, and it’s in the in the priority list. Right now, the the focus starts on seniors in the distribution. “This virus doesn’t know that
province. But health officials are groups targeted for the first round community aged 80+. Also on that list As for where and when you go to we haven’t seen our friends in
cautioning it won’t likely be in most of vaccines are: residents/staff of are homeless people, prisoners, mental get the shots in your community, and months. It doesn’t know that it’s our
people’s arms in this region for several long-term care and assisted living health patients, adult group home how you’ll be notified, that is still grandmother’s birthday,” she said last
months yet. residences; individuals in hospital residents and staff, long-term support being worked out. The logistics for week. “This is our riskiest time right
Earlier this month, the Province or community assessed individuals recipients and providers, as well as storage and delivery of the vaccine is now. We cannot let our guard down
outlined its plans to roll out the Pfizer- who are awaiting a long-term care community doctors and hospital staff. underway now. as vaccination is just beginning. This
BioNTech and Moderna vaccines, placement; essential visitors in long- Mass vaccination of the general You’ll get word on distribution is our winter, but we know spring
which were approved by Health term care and assisted living facilities; population won’t really start until here in the Valley Voice and other will come.”
Canada at the end of last year to healthcare workers providing March. The speed of its rollout will
combat the coronavirus. And while front-line hospital care in ICUs, be dependent again on how much
essential health workers and the medical/surgical units, emergency vaccine is delivered to BC. The plan is
most vulnerable are receiving shots departments, paramedics; remote/ to vaccinate population cohorts – once
now (about 60,000 doses have been isolated First Nation communities. the 80+ group is completed, they’ll
delivered), the rollout to the general The priority populations will get move on to 75+, then 70+, etc.
population will take some time yet. the first dose of the vaccine by late However, “…a detailed approach
As of January 3, 24,700 doses of January, and get their second dose and methodology is being developed –
the Pfizer vaccine had been distributed about 35 days later, says Provincial more detail to be provided mid-to-late
in the province, and 1,600 of the Health Officer Dr. Bonnie Henry. January,” says Henry.
Moderna vaccine. Six hundred and About 150,000 people should get The scale of the vaccination effort
thirty-nine doses of the Moderna the protective shots by the end of is impressive: in phase one, between
version were sent to Interior Health, February. December and March, officials expect
which includes the West Kootenay. “It is a monumental task, and to distribute 792,000 doses of the
Officials say the speed of the there are many months to go on this,” vaccine.
rollout depends on just how much she told reporters earlier this month. Compounding the complexity
vaccine is delivered to them over the “It’s constrained by logistics and of the rollout is the nature of the
coming months. how many vaccines we are receiving. vaccine. The Pfizer version needs
“The deliveries will continue to But we are optimistic and focussed to be stored in special, ultra-cold
arrive on a routine basis and speed intently on protecting people in long- freezers (to -80°C). There are only
up over time,” says an official with term care and assisted living as soon a handful of those in the province,
Interior Health. “The most important as we possibly can.” and none in the West Kootenay. That
thing of note to share is that vaccine Again, Henry cautioned the means locals here will be getting the
is arriving, and will continue to arrive, rollout is contingent on vaccine Moderna vaccine (which can be stored
to vaccinate the phase one priority production and delivery, and the in normal fridges).
populations. After that, eligibility timetable will be modified according Again however, officials caution Rick Taylor of Kaslo is the winner of the Kootenay Lake Angler Incentive Program’s November
expands to the next groups and so to the amounts they receive from the that they won’t know the exact draw. He turned his fish heads into the Woodbury Resort depot for $1,000 worth of gift
forth.” manufacturer. number of doses available for rollout certificates. See story, page 15.
100% Locally Owned & Operated
2 NEWS The Valley Voice January 14, 2021
Local villages top list for increased property values
by John Boivin, Local Journalism says. However, Slocan, Nakusp and Columbia homeowners can expect updated assessments is from new “If a property owner is still
Initiative reporter Kaslo all saw higher-than-average a moderate increase in their 2021 construction, subdivisions and concerned about their assessment
Three local communities had property value increases in 2020, assessments compared to last year,” rezoning of properties. after speaking to one of our
some of the highest increases in and several other West Kootenay says Deputy Assessor Sharlynn Hill. Homeowners who don’t agree appraisers, they may submit a Notice
property values in the province last communities weren’t far behind. “Some of the smaller communities with their assessment have a window of Complaint (appeal) by February
year. The Village of Slocan saw have experienced higher demand than of opportunity to challenge the BC 1, for an independent review by a
BC Assessment has released its one of the highest increases in the previous years and that is reflected in Assessment finding. Property Assessment Review Panel.”
annual list of assessed property values province, at 19%, with the value of the this year’s assessments.” “Property owners… who feel that The Property Assessment
as of July 2020. That assessment is average home rising from $165,000 Silverton and New Denver their property assessment does not Review Panels, independent of BC
used to help determine the amount of to $196,000. Nakusp saw a 16% also saw increases, 10% and 9% reflect market value as of July 1, 2020 Assessment, are appointed annually
taxes a homeowner will pay in 2021. increase, from $237,000 to $275,000, respectively. or see incorrect information on their by the provincial government, and
Most regions saw up to a 10% while Kaslo saw a 12% increase, from For comparison, the City of notice, should contact BC Assessment typically meet between February
increase in property assessments last $269,000 to $299,000 Nelson saw a 7% increase, with as indicated on their notice as soon as 1 and March 15 to hear formal
year, the government department “The majority of Kootenay the average price of a home there possible in January,” says Hill. complaints.
assessed at $504,000.
A higher assessment doesn’t Agreement reached to help couple
automatically mean higher taxes for
the homeowner. That will depend on remove home in slide zone
the tax rates set by local governments by John Boivin, Local Journalism property, as it’s still not even clear it
later this year, and how an individual’s Initiative reporter will be safe to have work crews on
property increase compares to the A Slocan Valley couple is going the site. But Johnson says he hopes
average. If your assessed value stayed to get help to remove their abandoned crews will be able to take down the
the same, and your local government home from their property perched home before spring runoff intensifies
doesn’t increase taxes, a homeowner high above the Little Slocan River. erosion on the property.
will see no change. Scott Carlson and Christa “Due to the nature of the unstable
“It is important to understand that Brakmann’s house is in danger of slope, we are, as of yet, unsure what a
Mon- Fri Castlegar to Nakusp increases in property assessments sliding into the river, as erosion eats safe working distance from the edge
and area do not automatically translate into a away at the property. will be,” he says. “We currently have
Mon/Wed/Fri Vernon to Nakusp corresponding increase in property The couple hasn’t lived in the geotechnical experts monitoring the
taxes,” explains Hill. “As noted on building since the spring, and have slope to understand how active it is.
Mon-Fri Castlegar and area
your Assessment Notice, how your moved to Castlegar. “From this data, a safe work
Mon-Fri Grand Forks and area
assessment changes relative to the But the house still remains a distance will be determined,
Tues- Fri Kaslo and area
average change in your community is danger, and in November RDCK then a viable method of removal
Mon-Fri Nelson and area officials settled with the couple on a identified, and finally, an overall cost
what may affect your property taxes.”
Mon- Fri Trail and area BC Assessment collects, monitors deal to help them get the building off understood.”
Mon-Fri Rossland and analyzes property data throughout the property before it tumbles down Johnson says their first priority
Saturday delivery service within the year. Earlier this month, it mailed to the water. is the health and safety of the crews
city limits in Nelson, Castlegar, out assessments to 150,000 properties The agreement was revealed in who’ll be asked to work on the site.
Trail and Grand Forks. throughout the Kootenay Columbia the minutes of the December RDCK “If qualified professionals
Same day and next day service region. board meeting. determine that the instability of the
available Overall, Kootenay Columbia’s “The purpose of the agreement is slope makes it unsafe for removal
total assessments increased from to make clear the understanding that of the structure, we’ll have to look
1368 Forest Rd, Castlegar, BC about $46.6 billion in 2020 to almost the RDCK will work to remove the at other options,” he says.
Phone: (250) 365-0269 $49.8 billion this year. A total of house, but that the liability ultimately
about $488 million of the region’s still remains with the homeowners,” Three New
says Chris Johnson, the director of
the RDCK’s Emergency Operations
Denver area
Centre. residents arrested
“For example, if the RDCK is
not able to remove the house due to in early January
safety concerns, and it falls down by Jan McMurray
the bank and impacts the river, the Slocan Lake RCMP report that
RDCK will not be held liable.” they arrested three New Denver area
With the legal technicalities residents in early January in two
settled, the regional government separate raids. No charges have been
and homeowners can begin work laid in either case, and the individuals
on demolishing the building and are not in police custody. Both
removing its materials. The couple incidents are still under investigation.
faces a complete loss on what was On January 4, police raided a
to be their retirement home, and downtown New Denver business
couldn’t afford to have it removed in the 800 block of Kildare Street,
themselves. and report they seized a quantity
While it’s a private building of contraband tobacco as well as
on private property, Johnsons says controlled substances under both the
the RDCK has a duty to ensure Controlled Drug and Substances Act
the building doesn’t create an and the Cannabis Act. According to
environmental hazard. an RCMP press release, police found
“All local authorities within BC indications of trafficking of controlled
are legislated to operate and maintain substances from the business, as well.
an emergency management program The business owners were
to manage and coordinate responses released from police custody pending
to emergencies within their political further investigation.
boundaries,” he told the Valley Voice. On January 6, police executed a
“In this case, the emergency is an search warrant at a residence in the
imminent threat of a deleterious 8400 block of Red Mountain Road
substance entering a waterway. and report they seized about 1,200
“Within our role in managing marijuana plants in various stages of
the emergency, our goal is to remove growth, as well as about 12 pounds of
the hazard (the house) before it has a dry marijuana bud.
negative impact on the environment A 47-year-old male was arrested
(the river and its ecosystem).” at the scene, and police say they will
It’s not known how much it will be recommending charges against
cost to remove the building from the him.
January 14, 2021 The Valley Voice NEWS 3
Possible Bigfoot sighting shocks, excites Silverton residents
by John Boivin, Local Journalism recalls. “They were bipedal tracks who wanders around here,’” she says. For Spink-D’Souza, the incident Research Organization through their
Initiative reporter in a straight line into the woods… “It sounds like around here people has left her with a larger sense of the website.
“I got a little spooked, it was are pretty open to the possibility magic of the world.
‘Twas the night of Christmas
alarming to see such big prints. But there is one.” “It leaves me with a sense of awe
SHELLEY BORTNICK,
And through the West Koot
there were no bear tracks.” Investigators arrive and wonderment on all the beautiful MSW, RSW
Not a creature was sighted Individual, couple and
Spink-D’Souza and the others The sighting was strong enough mysteries of this world,” she says,
Except maybe Bigfoot
examined and photographed the that members of an Okanagan Bigfoot noting Indigenous cultures recognize family therapist
At least, that’s how the famous tracks, and then she filed a report group returned to the location about the existence of the sasquatch. 30 years experience
poem could go after a group of with a Bigfoot organization online. 10 days after the sighting. “In terms of looking for evidence, Offers counselling services involving
travellers spotted what they say might ‘Un-hoax-able’ But after investigating the in concrete ways, that’s fine, but I do mental health (depression, anxiety,
have been a Bigfoot – also known as The head of the Bigfoot Field scene and examining the tracks hold a respect that there are people etc.), addictions, grief and loss,
a Sasquatch – near Silverton on Research Group, Matt Moneymaker carefully, the team put a damper on around who know of the existence trauma and life transition issues.
Christmas night. (who also co-hosted a long-running the excitement. of sasquatch and that’s marvellous.”
For appointment, please call
The four friends were heading Animal Planet TV show called “They suspect the tracks are If you see a sasquatch, you’re
to their home on Hwy 6 just south Finding Bigfoot), described the from a very large moose,” says invited to contact the Bigfoot Field 250-265-3397
of Silverton on the evening of tracks as “un-hoax-able.” Moneymaker, who’s based in
December 25 when the people in the
front of the vehicle saw what looked
“The surrounding pristine snow
proves the tracks were not fabricated
California. “The witnesses may
have seen a large female moose
VILLAGE OF
like a “huge, man-like figure” on the
side of the road.
by humans,” he says. “The stride
length is beyond the ability of a
facing forward and mistook it for a
man-like figure.” NEW DENVER
“I didn’t see the creature myself, human trying to leap through knee- But since nearly two weeks had
I saw the prints,” says Erica Spink- deep snow. The drag marks and depth passed since the initial sighting, PUBLIC NOTICES
D’Souza, who was in the back of the tracks prove they are not from Moneymaker says there’s still room
seat. She’s become the informal a leaping rabbit. The linear pattern to believe.
2021 UTILITY BILLINGS
spokesperson for her companions. Invoices for 2021 water and garbage charges have been mailed
shows that it was not a bear.” “It’s up in the air,” he says. “In
“But the person on the front seat to property owners. Payments can be made in person at the
Moneymaker also says it’s most cases I can usually say it’s
cried out ‘Oh my gosh look at that!’” unlikely someone was trying to looking more one way than the other, Village Office (cash, cheque or debit) or through Kootenay
“They said it looked like a hoax random travellers on an empty but in this case I can’t. I think there Savings Credit Union’s online banking.
huge grizzly, or it was a large man, stretch of road on Christmas night. are moose tracks in the area, yes, but Please note that a 5% penalty will be applied to all amounts
standing up.” Spink-D’Souza, who just there are witnesses who said they did that have not been paid by February 15th, 2021. An additional
But before Spink-D’Souza could recently moved to the area, says not see a moose.” 5% penalty will be applied to all amounts that remain unpaid
catch a glimpse, the figure turned, she’s never had something like this Moneymaker says he’d love at October 1st, 2021.
went on all fours, and headed deep happen to her before – though she’s someone with a drone to fly along
into the bush. heard weird animal sounds howling the trail of the purported tracks to DOG LICENCE RENEWAL REMINDER
“We tried to turn around and look in the bush around her new home. see where they lead. Dog owners in the Village of New Denver are reminded that all
again, but it was gone,” she says. She says locals she’s spoken to Ancient hominid? dogs residing in the Village of New Denver are required to have
After arriving home and putting have generally accepted her claim. Sasquatches are thought by a current dog licence, which can be obtained from the Village
her kids to bed, they returned to ‘Well, it’s the Kootenays,” she some to be present in the West Office. In accordance with the Village of New Denver’s Animal
the scene to look for signs of the says, laughing. “I tell them what Kootenay. Paranormal researchers Control Bylaw, there is a $15.00 reduction in the licence fees, if
mysterious creature. happened, and they start telling me believe it could be a lost sub- the licence for the current year is purchased prior to January
“We saw all these different their Bigfoot stories. species of hominid, like the extinct 31st or within 30 days of the date that the owner first comes into
tracks, and then we saw these tracks “People were saying ‘oh, that’s Gigantopithecus, a large ape-like
that were really alarming,” she possession of the dog.
The Wanderer, there’s a sasquatch creature whose remains have been
found in southeast Asia. However, BUSINESS LICENCES
no convincing physical evidence
A current Business Licence is required for all commercial
has ever been found to support those
undertakings of any kind within the Village of New Denver,
claims.
including home-based businesses, professional, personal or
It pays to other services for the purpose of gain or profit. In addition there
advertise in the
is the Inter-Community Business License (ICBL). ICBL allows
eligible businesses to operate across participating communities
Valley Voice!!!
without having to buy a separate business licence for each
community. For more information or to obtain a business licence,
Call toll free please contact the Village Office.
1-833-501-1700 for EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITIES
details The Village of New Denver is currently accepting applications
valleyvoice@valleyvoice.ca for a part-time janitorial position. For more information, please
contact the Village Office.
CENTENNIAL PARK PLANNING
You are invited to help shape the future of Centennial Park.
The Village is undertaking a comprehensive process to develop
a new Master Plan for Centennial Park. Public input will help
inform the design and master planning process moving forward.
As a first step in the public engagement process, we are asking
Our valley’s green
you to provide feedback through a short survey. Visit our website
grocer since 1990 for the link or pick-up a paper copy at the Village Office. Your
participation is highly valued!
• Fresh 2021 BUDGET NOTICE
• Organic The Council of the Village of New Denver invites public
consultation in the preparation of the Village’s 2021 Five Year
• Wholesome Financial Plan. Council welcomes public input from residents
of the Village with regards to items they would like to see
1290 Hwy #6 addressed in the budget.
Crescent Valley To ensure Council’s consideration please submit your comments
to the Village of New Denver Municipal Office no later than
250-359-7323 Sunday, January 31, 2021.
– Open daily – 115 Slocan Avenue · P.O. Box 40, New Denver, BC V0G 1S0
When local residents saw a creature that looked like Bigfoot on Christmas night south of
Silverton, they returned to the scene later that night and photographed the tracks. (Closed Christmas & New Year’s day) (250) 358-2316 · office@newdenver.ca · www.newdenver.ca
4 OPINION The Valley Voice January 14, 2021
New Denver change denier.
We’ve known for years that a
Reading Centre pandemic was likely. We’ve also
seen that countries that have taken
What if New Denver Reading
Centre were to become a regional strong measures have been able to
service that includes Area H North as greatly reduce the spread, while
well as Silverton? The membership those who don’t see a lot of deaths.
records will show the geographical It’s not as though I trust
range of addresses. Please consider government. Corporate capture
the many ways our area could benefit is a thing, as evidenced by the
from an expanded library service. subsidization of the oil and gas
More/increased hours, selection, industry, continuation of fish farms
options, support? despite the scientific evidence that
Carol Bell it’s killing wild salmon, not to
Silverton mention the barbaric clearcutting of
BC’s forests.
In praise of the But I believe that when there’s a
Pavilion health emergency of this nature, we
have a responsibility to wear a mask,
I was stunned by Elsie Reder’s
social distance, etc.
letter recounting her bad experiences
I’m honestly perplexed, and hope
at the Pavilion. This may be a
someone will edify me.
case of misunderstood COVID
Diana van Eyk
quarantine protocols, as it does not
Winlaw
reflect in any way the Pavilion that
I am familiar with from weekly Reality
visits over nearly three years. The
cleaning is impeccable, and the prescription – KASLO HOTEL IS OPEN –
nurses, care aides, kitchen staff are
all unbelievably kind, compassionate
needed Happy Hour is back! 3PM-5PM & 9PM-10PM daily. Drink and appetizer specials.
Through no enabling of Open from 3Pm Mon-Thurs & from Noon Fri – Sun.
and attentive; their genuine concern their own, retail staff, front-line
for each resident is obvious. COVID WWW.KASLOHOTEL.COM 250-353-7714
workers and some who work in
restrictions and requirements have the service industry, because of
The Ingrid Rice cartoon is a satirical look at current events in politics and is sponsored by the Kaslo Hotel. The Hotel does not necessarily share the political views of the artist.
added another layer of responsibility certain government policy, have following basic rules designed woods and trails overflowing with (VV, December 3) to mean that I cared
to everyone’s job, but the stress of unwittingly become unpaid law to protect themselves as well as unwashed and unkempt campers not for the unfortunate heart attack
this has not diminished the quality enforcement officers. Their jobs customers is cowardly, despicable who mostly left their trash for others victim at Empire Coffee and that I
of care that I witness each time I am have had new and at times difficult and shameful behaviour. Those to pick up. Villagers did not have to viewed spitting upon another person
there. I have nothing but gratitude responsibilities added to an already deniers of facts, those who believe clean up their yards from trash and as an appropriate response in a dispute.
and appreciation for the life my stressful workplace. The workers I that there is a worldwide conspiracy worse when the festival ended. It’s easy to see why many are afraid to
mother enjoys as a Pavilion resident. have any contact with in our small of mind control, need a prescription I for one, and after speaking with speak up right now for fear of being
Antonia Ferrier village are dedicated, personable, of reality. All they have to do is look many of my fellow employers and thus vilified.
Winlaw efficient, and go about their duties at statistics. This is real. Stay down at taxpayers in Kaslo, would rather We are living in extremely divisive
Perplexed as before. Anyone who would go the shallow end of the gene pool but
don’t expect me to join you.
never see another Jazz Fest darken
our village. The message I would
times. Many are afraid of a virus and
infractions of ordinances aimed to halt
I’m having trouble understanding out of their way to question or abuse
how people I know, like and respect these workers should be ashamed of To quote from Albert Einstein, have for the council is that the its spread while others are concerned
are demanding freedom to not wear themselves. Perhaps they would look “Only two things are infinite, the Village should never again sell itself about encroaching fascism and the
a mask because they think the in the mirror and ask themselves: universe and human stupidity, and cheap for a festival that has little erasure of civil rights and freedoms.
COVID-19 pandemic is a hoax of “Would I enjoy being treated that I’m not so sure about the former.” or no benefit for the taxpayers and How do we heal this division?
some kind. I’ve yet to see a credible way?” More than likely the answer Jim Van Horn residents of the village. As a business Certainly not by spitting, nor by name-
source explaining how this can be. would be no. Along with rights Kaslo person, I would say the starting point calling, nor by false characterization.
What I’ve seen so far comes from comes responsibility to your fellow Open letter to would be a minimum fee of $100,000
to be used to reduce, on a pro-rata
In her 2006 book, Unplugging
the Patriarchy, Lucia Renee proposes
Rebel Media – a source I don’t human, to do no harm. Hurling
trust – and a doctor who is a climate epithets and abuse at workers for Kaslo council basis, the taxes of all the property that our past several thousand years
I have been making my rounds owners in the village. I would prefer of history is a time characterized by
and talking to my fellow merchants no Jazz Fest. But if there is one, it power and as such pertains to the
EDITORIAL / LETTERS POLICY
The Valley Voice welcomes letters to the editor and community news and taxpayers on Front Street. should be shut down at 9 pm – no solar plexus chakra. She says that in
articles from our readers. August long weekend of 2020 was more 11 pm to midnight noise – and order to learn about power, we have
Letters and articles should be no longer than 500 words and may be quite prosperous for all of us. There the residents of the village should needed to experience the abuse of
edited. We reserve the right to reject any submitted material. was no Jazz Fest, but the hotel, motel, benefit, not be inconvenienced and power. Hence we have seen the rise
Please mark your letter “LETTER TO THE EDITOR.” Include your B&Bs and the campground were full. dumped on. of slavery, imperialism, and more
address and daytime phone number for verification purposes. We all had a good business John Eckland recently corporate capitalism and the
We will not knowingly publish any letter that is defamatory or libelous. weekend, and we did not have to deal Kaslo academic military industrial complex.
We will not publish anonymous letters or letters signed with pseudonyms,
except in extraordinary circumstances.
with a drugged-out group of drunks
beating their bongo drums at 3 am
Hope for the heart Renee believes that the only way we
will transition out of our current era is
I was very sad to read Carolyn
Opinions expressed in published letters are those of the author and not and disturbing the sleep of villagers by moving into our feeling centre; the
Parker’s letter (VV, December 17) in
necessarily those of the Valley Voice. and hotel guests. We did not have our next epoch, she believes, will be ruled
which she chose to interpret my letter
The Valley Voice
by the heart chakra.
Box 70, New Denver, BC V0G 1S0 I do very much care for the woman
that suffered the heart attack, as I
Phone/Fax: 1-833-501-1700 E-Mail: valleyvoice@valleyvoice.ca Website: www.valleyvoice.ca care about the hearts of everyone in
Publisher - Dan Nicholson • Editor - Jan McMurray • Food Editor Emeritus - Andrew Rhodes • Arts & Culture Editor - Art Joyce our beautiful West Kootenays and all
around the world. My greatest wish
Reporters - Barbara Curry Mulcahy, Moe Lyons & Kathy Hartman for this time is that we can continue
Local Journalism Initiative Reporter - John Boivin This position is funded by the Government o to debate issues logically while trying
Published and printed in British Columbia, Canada our best to remember that the most
The Valley Voice is distributed throughout the Slocan and Arrow Lake Valleys from South Slocan/Playmor Junction to Edgewood and Kaslo on Kootenay Lake. important thing in life is unconditional
Circulation is 7,600 papers, providing the most complete news and advertising coverage of any single newspaper serving this area. love and compassion towards each
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Nelson
January 14, 2021 The Valley Voice LETTERS 5
Forestry best to do in these circumstances. All
you need to do now is get surgery to No country for one another. How very reckless, in
my opinion!
which shook a huge land mass with
tidal wave and many lives were lost.
Sorry I’m a little behind the
times, but I would like to congratulate
remove that silver spoon from where
the sun doesn’t shine. I’m sure it will
old men Weekly I visit a loved one in a
long-term care facility. I am trying
The next sign was the dark day of
May 19, 1780. This was none other
Philip Pedini on his brilliant letter I was flummoxed to read
improve your vision and get rid of ‘Kootenay Freedom questions hard to avoid bringing COVID but the warning of the Prophet;
in the December 3, 2020 edition that entitled outlook you have. with me. Only a moron would not Joel 2:31. “The sun shall be turned
regarding the so-called fire-safe mainstream narrative on
Dr. Bonnie Henry, thank you COVID-19’ by Jan McMurray in understand the huge threat to life into darkness and moon into blood,
logging done near Kaslo. He said for the terrific job you’re doing. that COVID poses to these residents. before the coming of the great and
a lot in a short letter. Well done. I your December 17 edition. What a
Remember that no matter what you clearly promotional article on the Reckless actions risk bringing terrible day of the Lord.” The next
also noticed, in the same issue, an do, there will always be people who COVID into our communities and sign was the falling of the stars
article about Katrine Conroy’s new group, complete with colour photo
disagree with what you are doing showing a coy, smiling lady holding spreading it to care aides, nurses and November 13, 1833. History records
job as forest minister. It is nice to see and will say you should have done others who live in our communities these events.
our own MLA in charge of such an a sign ‘ASK THE ?’s THE MEDIA
this or that. WON’T.’ Besides advertising the and work in long-term care facilities. Also, one of the signs of the
important portfolio. In the past, the Happy New Year and remember The right to protest is one thing last days is pestilence. To me
NDP has been reluctant to stop the next rally, providing full contact
hindsight is (was) 2020. details on how to join, the article – the totally unnecessary flouting of and I believe and to the world,
rampant raw log exports that have Phil Trotter public health directives is another. COVID-19 was a wake-up call that
been a long-standing feature of the was composed of ‘motherhood’
Kaslo statements and some very disturbing Rory Lindsay it is no longer business as usual!
coastal forest industry. For many
years, BC has been loading logs on In keeping with inaccuracies. Not one word about the Lemon Creek I believe this world still has lots
ships to provide jobs for people in
the season
threat to public health some of the
activities of this group poses.
Unto you a of beauty with many good and
honest people. But God sees the
other parts of the world, while many
of our own sawmills have been shut O Holey Plight My question is: why didn’t the saviour and suffering of humanity, and God’s
heart of love yearns for His children.
down. Most of those logs have been The case load is increasing media – in this case, the Valley Voice
– ask some questions? For example,
COVID-19 This pandemic is a worldwide
coastal logs, many of which came It is our plight and our fear – here on Many are looking for answers problem and there have been many
from old-growth trees. I am sure Earth the article quotes Podmoroff: “We’re
as to what is going on in our world. speculations and conspiracies as to
Ms. Conroy is intent on doing what Long lay the whirled, in mask and social questioning why we are still on
The purpose of this article is to how COVID-19 evolved. It doesn’t
is best for the people she represents. distancing lockdown, especially when there
show how God’s word came true matter where the virus came from,
Stopping log exports and the logging ’Til Fauci, Gates, and pharmaceuticals are so few deaths globally and in
in the past for his first coming, and God is still in control.
of the last remnants of our old growth got to work Canada.”
we can place confidence that it will It shows us all how quickly
is a good place to start. I also think Six billion dollars, Operation Warp Speed Pardon me! As of January 4,
come true again. things can change. One cannot
she should reinstate the condition deployed there have been 1,857,480 deaths
Before Jesus came as a baby, deny there has been a huge decline
that logs should have to be milled To find a cure, a new vaccine was borne due to COVID reported globally,
it was prophesized in the Old in morals even in our own lifetime.
in the same area where they are cut. and 15,926 in Canada. If that is
Roll up your sleeves O feel the needle Testament and was fulfilled in There have been wars, earthquakes
Getting rid of that condition was one “so few,” one question is just how
insert the New Testament; both are in and pestilence through the ages. So,
of the worst things Gordon Campbell many more deaths does Podmoroff
O plight designed, O plight when Sense harmony with each other. what is different now?
ever did. Clearly, the people who require before she takes notice that
was shorn In fact, before God does So, we see in our world one
suffer the consequences of having something serious is happening?
O plight designed, O plight, O plight something great or that involves calamity and disaster following
their forest logged should reap the As to “why are we still on
designed man’s salvation, He sends warning. hard on the heels of the last one and
benefits of the milling jobs. Good lockdown,” it is because it has
Amos 3:7 says “surely the Lord God the intensity is overwhelming. It is
luck, Katrine. Led by the media and Fear profoundly been shown to slow down the virus’
will do nothing, but he revealeth different now like 1 Thess 5:3 says
Rod Retzlaff wielded spread and hence the death rate. For
his secret unto His servants the that trouble comes on the earth like
Glade With masks and shields we maintain example, in the US where there is
Prophets.” So, in Isaiah 7:14 it when a woman goes into labour the
social distance. reluctance to impose lockdowns,
Bits and pieces Led by the hope of normal once returning the COVID death rate per million
was told a virgin would conceive
and bear a son, and call his name
contractions and pains get harder
When you have to take your car And wise men of science we have well population (1088) is more than and closer together. I think of the
or truck in for warranty service, read Immanuel. In Matthew 1:21-23 an fire that moved through Paradise,
on hand. two and a half times higher than in
your service manual first to see what angel told Joseph the same news. In California a few years back; it went
mRNA – a new untested danger Canada (420). In case she missed
is required and ask your dealer or Micah 5:2 it was told that Christ was through so fast one would not have
But it’s okay – a divine panacea it, we are again in a situation where
mechanic what they are going to do. to be born in Bethlehem. In Matthew been able to outrun it had they been
cases of COVID are spiking and
Some dealers are less than ethical and Millions of doses, get in line don’t linger 2:4-6 the Scribes and Priests also in the middle of it.
there is a good chance the healthcare
do things like changing your coolant Behold your arm. On your knees lowly knew this prophesy and told King All these signs point to a soon-
system will be overwhelmed in parts
before it is required. Also, you do Herod that Christ would be born coming saviour. In Isaiah 24 it talks
bend. of the country. That is why we are
not have to take it to your dealer for in Bethlehem. In Luke 2:8-11, 15, about some of the signs and why
Behold your arm. You’ll soon be on the still on lockdown.
service work – it just has to be done 16 an angel was sent to shepherds these things happen. God is long
mend. We are doing very well in the
by a certified mechanic to validate to tell them of the saviour’s birth suffering towards us, not willing
Kootenays regarding COVID – so
the warranty. Duly I wrought this untested vaccine in Bethlehem. So here we have that any should perish, and would
far. That is because most have been
Have you ever taken your vehicle prophets, prophesying in the Old have all men to be saved and come
hither abiding by directives, staying in
into a shop to have your winter or Testament and it being fulfilled in to a knowledge of the truth.
But by the law I will travel where I please. our bubbles, not travelling, wearing
summer tires changed and they tell detail in the New Testament. Nature’s laws always work.
masks in public indoor venues, etc.
Chain up all the rest, enslave our refuted So again, we have prophets Take the law of gravity for instance.
you your brake pads are worn out It angers me that Kootenay Freedom
and need to be changed? Thank them brother telling of His second coming and One soon learns to respect it at a
needlessly threatens what we have
and get a second opinion. There are And shed the blame, our toil will be eased. signs around this event, so all may very early age and we show a high
accomplished. Protest and question
some tire shops and garages that are watch and be warned. In Matthew regard for it. God’s word is like that.
Sweet conviction we’ll, point the finger “the mainstream narrative” if you
less than ethical and tell people the 24:21,22 it talks about a great What he says comes to pass and it is
duly want. I’ll listen. But don’t purposely
brakes need replacing to make more tribulation (Dark Ages). Again, in sure. We can trust in it. Therefore, in
Censor all quacks and, conspirators all ignore and undermine the health
money. Some don’t even change the Matthew 24:29 gives the following John 14:2,3 Christ tells us “I go to
guidelines in place to protect us all.
brake pads. A good shop will show the same. signs after the great tribulation and prepare a place for you. And if I go
That turns you from a protester into
you your brakes to confirm they need before His second coming. The and prepare a place for you, I will
Roll up your sleeves O feel the vaccine a threat.
changing. sun would be darkened and the come again.”
surging I recently passed a Kootenay
Mr. Trudeau, I know it’s very moon shall not give her light, the Psalm 91 is full of encouragement
Freedom vigil in Winlaw. Huddled
O COVID, you’r eno friend of mine. stars shall fall from heaven and the during this pandemic.
hard on the two Mikes in China and close together like a flock of sheep
their families but you had no choice O plight designed, O plight powers of heaven shall be shaken. May God Bless.
and totally maskless, they were
but to stand tough on China. Had O senseless plight designed In Revelation 6:12,13 it gives Rocky Isbell
obviously an accident waiting to
you given in, China would bully us an additional sign of a great Nakusp
(No irreverence intended. I prefer the happen should one of them turn
on everything. (I try very hard to buy earthquake. These signs we are
out to have COVID. Then I learned Smokey Creek Salvage
things from other countries instead original). “The real cure for COVID is told, would happen after the great
Podmoroff – and how many others? 24 HR TOWING
of buying Chinese goods. You could renewing our fractured relationship with tribulation and before his second
– had travelled to Kelowna for an New & Used Auto Parts, Back Hoe Work,
do the same.) As far as COVID-19 is coming. All these events happened
the planet” (ref: theglobeandmail.com) anti-mask rally where hundreds Certified Welding & Repairs, Vehicle Removal
concerned, you are doing your best. in consecutive order. The first of WE BUY CARS & TRUCKS
T. Orlando converged from all over to march
There are no manuals on what is these beacons of warning was the 359-7815 ; 1-877-376-6539
Winlaw maskless and in close proximity to
great Lisbon earthquake in 1755 3453 YEATMAN RD, SOUTH SLOCAN
6 LETTERS The Valley Voice January 14, 2021
‘Flying hospital is “double-bunking” COVID
patients due to strains on the ICU. Time to get daily new cases were at least several
thousand – most days between 5,000
cynical passage of UNDRIP last year.
The governments of Canada have
Blind’ report January 8, BC Local News reports
strain on hospitals in BC’s Northern
in touch with and 10,000 daily new cases. With this,
there has been a corresponding spike
long been caressed by lobbyists from
the resource industries, especially gas
concerning Health Region and transfers from COVID reality in daily deaths, mostly ranging from and oil, to the point where politicians
A letter in your previous edition small hospitals to larger hospitals. In the December 17 Valley Voice 50-100 deaths per day. As I write, the believe the only way forward is to
quoted a report entitled ‘Flying In November, a hospital in Winnipeg a letter from Bill White asks: “Why total cases are at 489,471; total deaths double down on extraction.
Blind,’ by the Justice Centre for was “struggling with capacity” has Sweden kept their borders open? at 9,433 with 7,138 new infections on If climate change and global
Constitutional Freedoms (JCCF), as forcing nurses to “triage patients Why did Sweden choose not to lock this date. (Worldometers, January 8) warming were merely an abstraction,
a “MUST READ for all Canadians.” in their cars at times.” Hospital down or close schools?” The letter Sweden’s initially non-binding a foolish person might think it’s fine
The report was quoted as saying: overload affects the healthcare of argued that BC’s COVID restrictions precautionary measures led to what to continue damming and fracking. In
“The risks posed by COVID-19 everyone. are unnecessary because Sweden is today a death rate of 914 deaths fact, it leads to a horrible grey future
have been overestimated and 3) The JFFC report defines the didn’t use them. Sweden has been per million population. Norway and where humanity hunkers down in
mischaracterized; speculation and 10% of the population that can be held up by anti-mask people as a Denmark, with their strict COVID concrete shelters while nature shows
exaggerated estimates have been harmed by COVID-19 based as the paragon of successful reliance on measures, had death rates of 86 us just how good we used to have it.
used to justify the lockdown policy.” “elderly and infirm.” Specifically, “herd immunity.” and 256 respectively, per million It’s ironic that while world leaders
I wondered why an organization it claims that “COVID-19 poses Ironically, on the exact same day population. are pretending to do something other
with such a fine-sounding name virtually no risk to children, youth, as that letter appeared in the Valley The news of Sweden’s disastrous than stoke the fires, a huge opportunity
would say such a thing, because young adults and almost every adult Voice, news articles all over the surge in COVID-19 has been widely is waiting for the leader brave enough
Canada’s (and BC’s) restrictions under age 60.” Actually, the Health internet featured the King of Sweden published in news outlets on the to make the move. Once that happens,
are clearly based on hard data. I Canada website today shows that denouncing his own country’s internet. Surely people would want the other leaders of the world will join
downloaded the report, and it seemed 29.7% of patients hospitalized with COVID-19 policies. Photographs to check out the current situation in; it’s just hard to be first.
to be much the same misinformation COVID are under 60 years old. show a clearly furious King Gustaf. in Sweden before telling us all that Right now, here in BC, the
and conspiracy theory that we are all The JFFC is a non-profit law firm Headlines read, ‘King of Sweden BC should be following Sweden’s situation is such that one would think
familiar with by now, only dressed that has filed lawsuits in Alberta and blasts country’s ‘failed’ coronavirus example? It is not too much to ask that plain old common sense would
up in legalese. There is not space in Manitoba claiming that COVID-19 response’ (The Guardian); ‘Sweden’s the varied anti-mask persons writing be enough to have our government
this letter to address all the omitted restrictions ordered by health King…: ‘we have failed’ with light- to the public through the Valley Voice drop gas and oil production like a dirty
context and anti-lockdown bias authorities violate the Charter of touch COVID-19 policy response’ to check out factual sources, not rely shirt. As it stands, we’re not making a
I saw, but I will cite just a few Freedoms; it plans to expand this to (Huffington Post). on what the conspiracy sites and dime from it while at the same time
elements. other provinces, including BC. So far These same articles reported that anti-COVID belief echo chambers running up a huge liability. The current
‘Flying Blind’ claims that it appears the courts have not ruled on Sweden was tightening its restrictions. keep repeating, which also ignore the government is subsidizing oil and gas
COVID-19 is “harmless for roughly the main lawsuits, but the JFFC has Permissible group sizes were cut irrefutable facts. to the tune of $800 million a year, up
90% of the population.” Harmless? applied for injunctions against the down from 300 to 8, and there are now With two full-page paid messages 79% from the Liberals, who loved
1) Look up “long COVID-19” on health orders, and two judges ruled restrictions on businesses and virtual plus some letters to the editor, I’ve gas development. At the same time,
the internet. There’s a witch’s brew against them. learning in high schools. While masks set forth inarguable facts that the there are 770 abandoned gas wells –
of long-term health problems listed, A group called North 99 has done are not mandatory except in hospitals COVID deniers ignore, as they ignore leaking methane, we think. We don’t
including psychosis due to brain corporate research on the JFFC, its and public transportation, Swedish repudiating letters written by others. know because there is no monitoring.
impacts. Most recently, the New York funders and the kind of lawsuits it has citizens are now urged to use them. Why are we still being subjected to Methane is carbon dioxide on steroids.
Times printed an article (December filed. On the internet, they cite links to In summary, instead of enjoying heedless and endangering urgings But it gets worse.
16) by three medical doctors and numerous right-wing funding sources the ‘herd immunity’ that Swedish and claims? This subject is not about We, the taxpayers and ratepayers
researchers, entitled ‘People thought and think tanks, with endorsements citizens had been told would differences of opinion. The ongoing of BC, are building a dam which
COVID-19 was relatively harmless that include the Fraser Institute, which develop, Sweden has encountered a consequences of this virus has cut into never should have been built (Site
for younger adults. They were is widely known for climate change ‘second wave’ of COVID-19 with lives everywhere as well as causing C), not there and not now. Years ago,
wrong.’ They reported a major denial. I know far too little to draw skyrocketing deaths (over 200 a day). intense suffering and protracted Site C was thought unsafe, and Site E
spike in deaths among US adults conclusions about the JFFC’s funding Hospitals have announced that they impacts in the health of many persons (near the Alberta border) was the site
25-44 years of age that correlates to and lawsuits, but ‘Flying Blind’ does are so overwhelmed with COVID who seem to have recovered. of choice. The dam is being built on
the curve of COVID-19 infections. increase my concern that some of the cases that they have had to postpone Today, January 6, 2021 the US shale so poor that the mere weight of
38% of the deaths are directly related health-related misinformation about other health care, including cancelling had 260,973 new infections and 4,100 the concrete is deforming it, causing it
to COVID diagnosis; the rest are COVID-19 may be motivated by non-emergency operations. This deaths in 24 hours. In California, to sink and also to admit water. On top
currently unexplained. interests with economic objectives. week, Swedish parliament passed intensive care unit beds are at zero; of that, the dam is sited in the Montney
2) Is it harmless to have our When these are small businesses emergency legislation allowing hospitals are overwhelmed. And just gas formation, where fracking-caused
hospitals and caregivers overloaded? that openly express concern about stringent national lockdown as this occurred in other countries, earthquakes would perhaps be severe
The JCCF report makes a plethora their financial survival, that’s totally precautions. Canada’s infection rates are steadily enough to destroy the dam. Fracking
of allegations that not only dismiss valid, and forces us all to weigh the The second wave began in rising. Consider just the last few days: is allowed within five kilometres of the
concerns about hospital overload, but values of the economy versus public autumn. Sweden’s average daily January 3 - 11,388; January 4 - 9,762; Peace Canyon dam, and they have had
also accuse government and health health. But very big money pursuing cases rose 173% between September January 5 - 7,222; January 6 - 8,154; some earthquake scares there.
authorities as misrepresenting the one objective under the disguise of 2 and October 6; in Stockholm, its January 7 - 8,834; January 8 - 7,414. LNG prices are down, to the extent
problem. On January 6, news outlets another is a different thing altogether. major city, they rose 405% in the In those few days, 955 Canadians that the Kitimat plant being built is
reported that a hospital in Ontario In either case, when it comes to my same period. At the end of September, died. Our refuge from this in the the only one going ahead globally.
is storing bodies in a refrigerated health, I’ll believe doctors, not a law Sweden’s daily new cases were Slocan Valley is rare, precious and Yet to provide enough gas to fill
truck due to the morgue being full firm or corporation or store owner. in the mid-hundreds; they started easily lost. It’s for good reason we’re the pipeline being rammed through
of COVID-19 victims. January 7, the Anne Sherrod increasing through October, and mandated to take careful precautions, Indigenous lands, fracking will have
Globe & Mail reports that Edmonton New Denver through November and December, measures which, for our protection if to be increased exponentially, right
not your own, you should now adopt, near the Site C dam. Much of the new
while getting in touch with what’s power infrastructure being built in Asia
really going on. is either wind or solar, so demand for
Richard Caniell LNG will remain soft.
Silverton So what will it be? I don’t believe
Open letter to the will of the people is for this
continuing environmental degradation
Premier Horgan and continuing huge subsidies. Does
The pandemic will end, as BC want to continue lying about
pandemics do, with or without a magic meeting its climate targets? As long
bullet. What won’t end are the huge as the LNG project goes ahead, and
methane emissions from BC unless the Site C goes ahead, we’re screwed. The
government decides to do something NDP has a once in a lifetime chance to
to stop them. Climate change has been turn the tide.
acknowledged (‘Clean BC’) but it’s Harvey Armstrong
just lip service, about the same as the Johnsons Landing
January 14, 2021 The Valley Voice COMMUNITY 7
Nakusp council, December 14: ALR exclusion applications cause water concerns
by John Boivin, Local ratified by council as directors large ecological, financial and up customer access to ‘green’ Mayor Tom Zeleznik likely by February.
Journalism Initiative reporter of the NACFOR Board. Aidan social impact. However, run- electricity. A letter to that effect reported to council that the cost Kudos to decorators
Land for industry McLaren-Caux has been of-river dams like Silversmith, will be sent to the BCUC and of dumping waste at the local Mayor Tom Zeleznik
Some residents of Nakusp appointed by council as the which are ‘green,’ are hampered the BC Union of Municipalities. transfer station is going up in praised the work done by
came to the Village council council representative. in their access to markets by “I think it is very important, the new year. After meeting volunteers to prep the village’s
meeting in December to express Green power regulators, said co-owner Hal I’m tired of dams, and it would with the RDCK Joint Resource downtown core for Christmas.
concern about a proposed light The Village of Nakusp is Wright. be nice to be more green Recovery Committee, Zeleznik The Society for Nakusp
industrial development on a getting on the ‘green energy’ Getting municipalities to with our own power,” said learned the cost of dropping Community Events held its
bench above their homes. bandwagon. In a presentation lobby government to change Mayor Tom Zeleznik, noting one bag off at the dump was December light-up event earlier
Village council is applying in November, the owners of the rules to allow them to buy the Village’s own tiny power going up from $2.50 a bag in the month, after volunteers
to the Agricultural Land Sandon’s Silversmith Power and power from certified ‘green’ generating system may soon to $3. A second bag would spent hours adding lights and
Commission to take two lots Light Company pitched the idea companies would help both the be shut down by government make it $6 and any more than decorations to local trees, roofs
on Hot Springs Road out of the to council that it should call on local economy and environment, energy regulations. that would be weighed before and lampposts.
ALR for use by local businesses. government to allow the Village Wright said. The motion makes no charging. Tonnage weight, now “Broadway was lit up
The exclusion would to buy ‘green’ energy, such as Council agreed, and after difference to the way the Village at $110/tonne, is also expected beautifully and could be seen
“permit the creation of locally they produce. considering the matter and buys its power now, but may to increase. from outer space!” joked the
value-added light industry While most BC power deliberating on the wording, allow for more flexibility in The changes won’t come mayor. “The village has now a
and/or possible expansion to generation is ‘renewable,’ it’s passed a motion calling on the the future. into effect until the full RDCK new emergency airplane runway
the airport to allow additional not ‘green’ – as dams have a BC Utilities Commission to free Waste fees rising board approves the changes, when required to land at night.”
amenities for the community,”
the Village says.
It’s part of Nakusp’s long- Christmas
term strategy to provide more shopping?
land for job-creating business
in town.
Check out our
But the public hearing on many gift ideas!!
the plan to remove #1315 and Animal feed for • Fence posts
#2115 Hot Springs Road raised chickens, horses, • Corral panels
some concerns about protecting pigs, sheep, dogs, • Fencing
water users downstream. cats & more
“Anybody on 15th Avenue
Flannel mens &
is on wells, all of us,” said one
Ladies shirts starting
intervenor, Bernie Ryan. “And Straw bales
at $39.99-$69.99
I’m no expert… but I would at $13.00
least like to state my concern Mens reflective
safety jackets $99.99
about the water supply, and any
contamination that’s above it, Peat Moss - $19.99
and hopefully that would be Kuradori Christmas sale now on
addressed in licences and stuff Wishing You Happy Holidays from all
that go with it.”
of us @ HOME
But Ryan emphasized his
We are limiting people to 4 customers in the store at any one time
concern was not with the plan,
but how vague the term ‘light
industrial’ was. Fir pellets by the pallet or in 1 tonne bulk bags (no delivery of bulk pellets)
Be winter prepared: snow shovels, safety salt, sandbags, insulation, heat tapes
“Again, I’m not saying
— Bird food & suet —
no, [because] we need more Face masks are mandatory
space, etc. etc. But I would hate
to see my only water supply
contaminated. I am hoping Open 10-4 daily, including Sunday
that’s a reasonable concern and
someone keeps an eye on that.”
Another community
resident indicated he was
concerned about the impact the
loss of ALR land could have
on future food production in
the area.
In the end, council voted to
go ahead with the application
to the ALR. The Village’s
economic development group,
Investment Ready Nakusp, will
pony up the $1,200 application
fee for the Land Commission.
Community sawmill?
Mayor Tom Zeleznik
dropped a teaser that the Nakusp
and Area Community Forest
was looking into developing
a sawmill to expand its
operations. He’s been appointed
to a committee to look into the
idea. (See more on this story
elsewhere in this issue of the
Valley Voice).
In other NACFOR news,
the Village’s community-owned
forest company has a new slate
of directors. Melissa Rode,
John Cann, Randy Mackenzie,
Anastasia Hewat, Darlene
Adair and Patrick Judd were
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