VALLEY VIEWS
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VALLEY NEWS
Local skier nails near-impossible descent
By Steve Hubrecht steve@columbiavalleypioneer.com
The mere mention of Mount Robson provokes appreciative nods around the Columbia Valley.
It doesn’t matter if you’re a hiker, a backcountry camper, an alpinist or a casual outdoor enthusiast – Mount Robson captures the imagination. To say the mountain is emblematic doesn’t really do it justice: it’s the highest peak in the Canadian Rockies, jutting so far above its surroundings that it creates its own weather system.
Most people get their first glimpse of Mount Robson from the Yellowhead Highway, seeing a massive wall of limestone, shale and quartzite rearing three vertical kilometres into the sky. It looks more like something from the Himalayas than from the Rockies.
On Sunday, Feb. 16, Invermere-raised ski mountaineer Christina ‘Lusti’ Lustenberger and her ski partner Gee Pierrel made history when they became the first people to ski that staggering south face, turning the impossible into the possible.
The descent made headlines at major news outlets around the world, but then that’s nothing new for Lustenberger. She grew up in Invermere with ski bum parents (who ran the locally famous Lusti’s ski shop at Panorama Mountain Resort). Lustenberger excelled early on as an alpine ski racer, eventually racing for Team Canada in the 2006 Winter Olympics in Turin. But a series of serious injuries when Lustenberger was in her mid 20s prompted her to shift from alpine racing to guiding and backcountry skiing, and then eventually to becoming a full-time professional ski mountaineer.
She chalked up amazing first ski descents, first in her own backyard at Rog-
ers Pass and other nearby places, then all around the world, and starred in major ski movies. Every year she seemed to tackle bigger and mightier challenges, pushing the boundaries of what can be done on skis a little bit farther. In 2024, for instance, she made waves with first a ski descent of the fabled Great Trango Tower in Pakistan and with first ski descents of some absurdly steep and technical lines on and around Aoraki (Mount Cook) in New Zealand.
Despite her global fame, Lustenberger, who now lives in Golden, remains rooted in the Columbia Valley. One of her most eye-catching first descents of recent years was being the first to ski the fearsome east face of Mount Nelson, the largest peak visible from Invermere, with fellow Columbia Valley big mountain skier Ian McIntosh back in 2021.
In fact, it was growing up in the Columbia Valley that instilled a desire in Lustenberger to ski the south face of Mount Robson. She told the Pioneer she’s been thinking about just such a descent for at least a decade.
“When you live here, you hear about it (Mount Robson), about how it’s the tallest peak in the Canadian Rockies . . . it has an energy,” she said. The route she and Pierrel skied is clearly visible from the Yellowhead Highway. “I’m sure many skiers have seen that particular ribbon of snow and wondered ‘can that be skied?’ I did the same.”
Lustenberger met Pierrel on a ski trip to Chamonix, and he was her ski partner on the first descents in New Zealand in 2024. The pair work well together, and Pierrel explained to the Pioneer that he was more than happy to follow Lustenberger’s lead, “especially in her own backyard (on Mount Robson)”.
Continued on page 5
Invermere-raised Christina ‘Lusti’ Lustenberger and ski partner Gee Pierrel recently became the first people to ski Mount Robson’s staggering south face.
PHOTOS BLAKE GORDON
RCMP REPORT
Submitted by Sgt. Jeff Witzke
Columbia Valley RCMP
On February 23 the Columbia Valley RCMP received an SOS activation from a Garmin In-Reach device indicating there was an avalanche with one person buried.
Search and rescue were immediately deployed to the Forster snowmobile riding area where it is believed the avalanche was triggered by human activity. The victim was taken by helicopter to the Invermere hospital where, sadly, despite all of the life saving measures they were pronounced deceased. The victim was not local to the Columbia Valley area. The RCMP would like to thank search and rescue, RK Heliski, EHS and all those who helped out on scene. Our thoughts are with the family and friends affected by this tragic event.
New housing plan in the wings Avalanche buries victim
Columbia Valley Pioneer staff
The Regional District of East Kootenay (RDEK) has deferred a discussion on a new housing proposal in Windermere.
The board was slated to hear a presentation on the Brewer Ridge development last week but postponed it.
The application involves a zoning and Official Community Plan amendment for the vacant property on Rocky Mountain Avenue immediately west of Windermere Elementary School and abutting the Windermere townsite core.
The proposal is to construct a 22-unit multi-family apartment/condominium complex. To permit development, a zoning amendment from R-1 (single family residential) to R-4 (multiple family residential – high density) is required.
A report to the RDEK indicates the East Side Lake Windermere water system has been assessed and determined to have capacity to service the property, which is near several parcels that are already designated in the OCP for multi-family development. Un-
On February 18 the Columbia Valley RCMP were called to a vehicle fire at the Fairmont Hot Springs parking lot. The fire department was on scene and able to put the fire out. Unfortunately, the fire did spread to another parked vehicle. Thankfully no one was injured. At this time the fire has been deemed not suspicious and was believed to have started in the engine compartment.
On February 19 the Columbia Valley RCMP responded to a single vehicle collision where a loaded logging truck heading toward Radium Hot Springs failed to navigate the corner on Highway 95 near Edgewater. It hit the ditch, taking out power lines and losing its load.
No other vehicles were involved. The single occupant was taken to hospital with minor injuries. The downed power line caused a minor power outage in the valley and the highway was closed for a significant time to deal with the scattered logs.
der OCP objectives, it is noted that a mix of residential densities is supported in the Windermere South area.
The application notes that an assessment of the property has been completed to confirm that the soils are suitable for an on-site sewer treatment facility that can service the proposed development. It also highlights that sidewalks and/or trail connections to the community will be provided.
It is proposed that FireSmart principles will be integrated into the development including the use of FireSmart building materials and landscaping.
Public consultation will be conducted prior to a public hearing.
The report alluded to support being recommended only if the developer registers a covenant on title prohibiting short-term rentals in the units.
In addition, there will be some consideration for the effect the development will have on Rocky Mountain Road and access to the site. An upgrade to ministry standards will be required.
The RDEK is expected to discuss the application at a later date.
Skiers conquor Mount Robson’s south face
Continued from page 3
Good teamwork is essential in ski mountaineering, particularly when pioneering a new ski descent with extreme technical challenges, just as on the south face of Mount Robson. Only three people had ever previously skied Mount Robson, and all three did so on the mountain’s less technical (though still intimidating) north face.
The cold temperatures that enveloped the Columbia Valley and other parts of southeastern B.C. for several weeks in January and February were a boon to Lustenberger and Pierrel. The high pressure system meant the snow on the south face of Mount Robson was about as stable as it can get.
The pair actually took two attempts just to reach the summit. On the first try, they set rappel anchors as they climbed, encountered less than ideal weather, including plenty of fog, and ended up spending a night camping (without cover) high on the mountain. On the following day they turned back in the afternoon, about 200 metres from the summit and returned to their camper in the Kinney Lake parking lot. Even that was challenging as they needed to bash through trees and brush so thick and so tightly spaced that they had to remove their skis and crawl on their knees at certain points.
They spent two days trying to rest and recharge before making their second attempt. This time they made it to the top. But as Lustenberger is fond of pointing out, when it comes to ski mountaineering, reaching the summit is really only the halfway point. It’s always followed by the really interesting part: the descent.
The ski began with the pair heading first over a small bulging hanging glacier, then making a harrowing, ultra-ex-
posed traverse over to the Great Couloir. The traverse was “like a coral reef-ice sastrugi,” said Lustenberger, and the pair made their way across it with ice axes in hand, constantly plunging those axes into the snow.
The Great Couloir they reached was the ‘ribbon of snow’ that Lustenberger had long ago initially wondered whether it was possible to ski. In places the couloir was open enough to lay some turns, but in other parts it was so constricted that their skis would not fit sideways.
As if that was not difficult enough, the couloir acts as a funnel, meaning the pair faced a constant threat of ice, rocks or avalanches sweeping down from above. They had precious few options to dodge such falling hazards.
“It was quite engaging skiiing,” said Lustenberger with considerable understatement. “Descending a big, big line like that, you have to expect every challenge to be thrown at you.”
But ski it they did. The total descent took 3.5 hours, and included seven rappels as well as transitioning from skiing to climbing and back multiple times
Afterwards, the pair mostly felt relief at being done.
“It’s exhausting. The mountain kind of puts you in a vice. The physical and mental effort it takes to be on this kind of mountain for such a long time creates heavy pressure and stress,” said Lustenberger. The two days the pair spent trying to recharge after their first attempt to reach the summit were not quite long enough, and she and Pierrel were “running on fumes.”
A true sense of what they’ve accomplished will come later, Lustenberger told the Pioneer.
“With time and reflection you start to feel more joy. Especially with an experience this intense. It’s a big release.”
Historical Lens PERSPECTIVE
Put Canada first on shopping list
Are you shopping Canada first?
Not only is this a good way to fight back against Donald Trump’s tariff threat, it’s a great way to keep Canadian businesses alive and kicking, especially during these challenging times.
On your next trip to the grocery store, seek out “product of Canada” goods or ask a staff member to point them out. Read the label before you toss a product into the cart as it could be made in America. There are also new apps you can download such as ‘Maple Scan’ or ‘Buy Beaver’ to help identify Canadian products. Simply scan the bar code and it gives you the information you need.
It’s time to give Trump a taste of his own medicine!
Hopefully local businesses have established special aisles dedicated solely to Canadian products — Maple Syrup Lane, Beef Boulevard, Apple Avenue, Vegetable Way . . . the list goes on.
There are also many clothing products made in Canada, so the next time you’re shopping for a shirt or a pair of pants, ask for a Canadian brand. The same goes for fuel stations — stick to Canadian.
But let’s be realistic for a moment. A lot of consumers make their buying decisions based on price, and you can’t blame them. Many families are under financial pressure, living paycheque to paycheque, trying to make every penny count, so they can’t always buy Canadian if the neighbouring product on the shelf is $5 cheaper. It’s a Catch-22.
All this label reading and research is a bit overwhelming because it’s not always easy to determine what is Canadian and what isn’t.
Maybe it’s time for a holiday. With what, wooden nickels? Forget Jamaica or the Ivory Coast, make it a Canadian get-away. Or if the piggy bank is really low, try a ‘staycation’ in your own region; that way you’ll save money and support local business at the same time.
If you’re an online shopaholic, be sure to buy Canadian. Besides, the US exchange rate is a killer right now. For example, a $50 item in US funds will cost you $71 Canadian, which is ridiculous.
Canada should not be so reliant on the US; it needs to strengthen alliances with other countries, such as Mexico to gain access to more products.
This spring and summer will be a great opportunity to thumb your nose at Trump and support local business through the Columbia Valley’s farmers’ and artisans’ markets.
If you’re still confused about sorting through Canadian products, check out the Buy BC website at https://buybc.gov.bc.ca or Buy Canadian First on Facebook.
Lyonel Doherty, editor
Needs to grow thicker skin
Editor’s note: the following letter is in response to ‘Council limits Westridge STR’ in the Feb. 20 issue of the Pioneer.
It is remarkable that councillor Gerry Taft is "offended" that a taxpayer would raise a question about his possible conflict of interest.
It's almost like he considers his personal feelings to be more important than the public's trust in the democratic process. I'm sure we are all aware of an American politician who demonstrates a similar style.
It needs to be clearly stated that whenever any constituent of any level of government chooses to
question any political process or politician, they should be respected and thanked for doing so. Their concern should be addressed with forthright prompt transparency. Any effort to intimidate that freedom very much offends me.
That is exactly how we will defend Canadian democracy and that is how we shall stand for and remain the “true north strong and free.”
Mr. Taft needs a thicker skin; it was a valid and reasonable concern.
Chris Conway, Fairmont Hot Springs
LETTERS Foundation thanks Starlite donors, supporters
This year’s Starlite Campaign, which has been a little extended because of the Canada Post mail delays, has raised over $500,000 towards health care across the East Kootenay.
Funds have been donated towards many of our foundation’s current initiatives. These include our support of the major upcoming oncology and renal expansion at East Kootenay Regional Hospital, new furnishings at the Durand Manor long-term care home in Golden, the Beneath the Surface ultrasound campaign in Invermere, and improvements to equipment and pa-
tient comforts across our five hospitals, three health care centres, five long-term care homes and numerous community health care programs.
On behalf of our staff, our board, and our communities, we want to thank everyone who has spread the word and donated to this year’s campaign. We are looking forward to continuing to raise funds for these and other upcoming health care priorities across the region. We also want to recognize everyone who has supported the work of the foundation over the years. Since 2020 you have donated over $8.9 million to-
wards improving health care across the region. Thanks to you, we built Foundry East Kootenay for our youth.
We have improved medical imaging services across the region. We have upgraded equipment and patient comfort in all of our sites. We have helped our long-term care homes feel more like home.
We will be bringing a Neonatal Intensive Care Unit to the East Kootenay Regional Hospital for our tiniest patients and their families.
You have made an incredible difference across our region. You have helped
save lives. We are thankful for your support every step of the way. There is always going to be a need for new equipment, patient comforts, spaces, and training in the East Kootenay. With your support, we can continue to meet those needs. With your support, we can continue to save lives.
To learn more about how the EKFH supports health care in the region, please visit ekfh.ca, visit our office in the East Kootenay Regional Hospital lobby, or call 1-877-489-6481.
East Kootenay Foundation for Health
Defend your right to read, write, publish
This week’s column was written by Dallas Husar, , Invermere library assistant. Visit the website or call 250-3426416 for more information.
Freedom to Read Week is an annual event that takes place the last week of February. It “encourages Canadians to think about and reaffirm their commitment to intellectual freedom” (freedomtoread.ca).
Established in 1984 it brings awareness to the often quiet acts of censorship that happen to Canadian writing, while also encouraging Canadians to defend their rights to read, write, and publish freely.
According to an article by Pearce J. Carefoote (2025), the Canadian book censorship began with the play Tartuffe by Moliere in 1694. France had suppressed it 30 years previously as it was considered an affront to the Catholic Church. The book was subsequently
banned in Canada for the same reason by the Governor of Quebec on the advice of a local bishop (https://digitalcollections.mcmaster.ca/hpcanpub/ case-study/censorship-canada). Since then, there have been a wide variety of reasons books have been censored. I highly recommend reading Carefoote’s article for a more thorough view. Something that has not changed throughout the years is the fact that material is often challenged with the challengers never having read the material.
In Grade 9, my English teacher taught a unit focused on critical thinking. He taught us about propaganda and how to notice when print media was trying to sway our opinions. He taught us to pay attention to the language and graphics that were used and to analyse what we were seeing. He taught us to take in what we were being given and to dismantle it to discover what was really being said. This lesson continued to be taught as I made my way into university. We were taught to use peer reviewed articles, which means they had to be reviewed by experts in the field to ensure that what is presented has high quality evidence to support what they are claiming. In essence, we were taught to
make sure the information we were using was valid.
Censorship of books continues today, the reasons may change depending on society but the goal is still the same: to prevent ideas and messages from being shared with others. The world, however, and the way it accesses printed material has changed dramatically. The internet has made it possible to access books, theories, opinions, and facts with just the touch of a button. Anyone, anywhere can post their thoughts and opinions. And with the advent of Artificial Intelligence (AI), even a simple Google search has changed. No longer are you simply given a list of websites to scroll through to determine which information source best suits what you are looking into. It’s set up in a way that we often don’t consider the validity of where the information is coming from. In this new age, rife with instant gratification and information overload, the ability to think critically and consider your sources may be more important than ever.
Now how does all of this relate to libraries? Libraries are a wealth of information and do not support the banning or censorship of materials. This means that even if a book does not align with the personal views of the library workers or a patron, it is not a reason to remove it from the collection. The biggest limiting factors to a library’s collection are most likely budgets and space. Luckily, libraries in British Columbia are able to share resources with each other, so if a book is out there, chances are we can bring it in for you. Libraries are also a non-judgemental space; you can take out material without fear of judgment, and we encourage people to take in multiple views and sides to any subject. We want you to expand your horizons and knowledge in the world, be it through facts (non-fiction) or stories (fiction). We are always happy to help people look for resources as well. So, please, come and browse the shelves and read and learn to your heart’s desire!
Canal Flats unhappy over water upgrades
By Steve Hubrecht steve@columbiavalleypioneer.com
Canal Flats officials are unhappy at being forced into expensive water system upgrades by the provincial government.
As reported in last week’s issue of The Columbia Valley Pioneer, Canal Flats Water Protection and Conservation Advisory Committee members explained to Canal Flats residents at a public meeting that the B.C. government has mandated improvements to the village’s water system, including a new water treatment plant.
Canal Flats mayor Mark Doherty outlined to the Pioneer that, in his view, it’s not exactly fair.
“For me personally, we are under their threshold,” said Doherty, referring to the village’s water quality, which passes provincial tests. He added that Canal Flats has never had a boil water advisory in the 40 years its current water system has been in place.
“What they (the B.C. government) are doing is mandating, so they don’t have any liability,” said Doherty.
During the water committee meeting, some of the members had explained that Canal Flats may not have much choice about the treatment plant since the village was given direction by the provincial government.
“That’s also the impression that I have, that we have no choice,” said Doherty.
“To me it’s downloading on us (Canal Flats) the cost of that protection. I believe that the cost, if the provincial government wants this, should be their cost. Or at least mostly their cost. I also believe it should be up to us (Canal Flats) what kind of disinfection we want. Chlorination is not the only option.”
Multiple residents at the meeting voiced opinions against chlorination. Committee members outlined that UV treatment and filtration are also options for water treatment, but noted that often chlorination is the cheapest.
Water committee chair Gayle Lake elaborated on why Interior Health has mandated the changes, and referenced the Groundwater at Risk of Containing Pathogens (GARP) report for Canal Flats, which was completed in May 2024.
The report can be found online at canalflats.civicweb.net/document/33068/.
“Our water quality has not changed,” said Lake. “But what has changed is how
the provincial government assesses our hazards . . . the mayor is right, we are still meeting the bar when it comes to water quality. But not when it comes to risk.”
The new assessment standards were brought in by the provincial government in 2011. Canal Flats was assessed on 13 hazards across four broad categories.
“Unfortunately we failed seven of the 13,” said Lake. “What they (the B.C. government) are saying is ‘your water is fine now, but the potential risks are high.’”
Some of those risk factors include relatively shallow wells (some are only 40 feet deep), an aquifer that underlies the entire village, aging and undersized water pipes, and aging sewer infrastructure, said Lake.
“It’s a potential. A ‘what if’. We do not have any problems now. But according to the provincial government there is a potential risk,” said Lake.
The community is “concerned” about the mandated upgrades, said Lake, agreeing with Doherty. “They (Canal Flats residents) don’t want chlorine in their water. I don’t either, to be honest. But there are risks.”
The treatment plant and other upgrades are a “huge challenge, for the village financially, and emotionally for residents . . . I think it’s a fair statement to say that none of us really want it,” added Lake. Elaborating on why it is an emotional challenge, she echoed Doherty’s comments, noting that the village’s current water system has been operating for many decades without any issues.
During the water committee meeting Lake gave the example of another small B.C. town that is in the process of building a new water treatment plant, which was originally supposed to cost $54 million, but which has quickly shot up to a price tag of $87 million.
She clarified, though, that those costs are for an above-ground water system. Lake brought up the $87 million system at the meeting not as an example of what kind of costs Canal Flats faces, but instead “to point out how quickly it (the price) can go up.” Although she couldn’t be sure, Lake said that from what she understands a new water treatment plant in Canal Flats would likely cost somewhere in the neighbourhood of $5 million.
However, that $5 million would be just for the treatment plant, and there will likely be additional costs to replace or upgrade water pipes, she explained. Many of the village’s pipes are only four or six inches in diameter, far narrow-
er than the provincial requirement of 10 inches. This means that some of the village’s fire hydrants do not have adequate fire flow protection.
Canal Flats officials have been searching high and low for grants and have asked provincial authorities for funding to help with the water system upgrades. But Lake said that, as far as she knows, the provincial government “has said ‘don’t ask us for money. Everybody’s (other B.C. municipalities) in the same boat and no one has any money to give’.”
Lake explained that taxes paid by village residents are just enough to cover the costs of running the Canal Flats water system. There’s no surplus to build up a slush fund to pay for big upgrades and major repairs.
“It is the same situation in many B.C. communities. We are not the only ones,” said Lake.
She conceded it’s a conundrum, and said she’s not sure what village officials will do to solve it.
“It’s complicated,” she said, clarifying that the committee is “just a research team. We will put together a report, but the decision on what to do will
be made by mayor and council.”
The committee will likely have its report done and presented to council in June.
Lake said she’s not sure what timeline the provincial government wants for the water system upgrades.
“I don’t think Interior Health is expecting this (a new water treatment plant) tomorrow, but at the same time my guess is they will want to see us working toward it,” she said.
Lake also said that even though the water system improvements have been mandated, it’s not necessarily a lost cause for residents to lobby against the mandate.
“Maybe if we do band together, maybe we can change Interior Health’s mind. I’m not sure we can succeed, but we can certainly try. We can certainly pass on our reasons why (the village doesn’t want a water treatment plant),” she said.
The water committee’s next meeting is Monday, March 17 at the Canal Flats Civic Centre at 6 p.m.
There will be another one on Saturday, April 12 at 10 a.m., also at the Canal Flats Civic Centre.
Some Canal Flats residents don’t believe the community needs a new water treatment plant.
OUT OF OFFICE…
2025 Job Fair & Volunteer Expo
It’s time for the 2025 Job Fair and Volunteer Expo! On Thursday March 6th the Columbia Valley Centre will open its doors to local business, organizations and non-profits who are looking for their newest star employees and volunteers! Job Fairs and Volunteer Expos can provide a unique opportunity for job seekers, volunteer hopefuls and recruiters for both - face to face engagement is a wonderful way to ‘skip the line’ and get your resume into the hands of the actual people who need to see it - and getting a feel for the person behind that piece of paper can make a huge difference to recruiters. (This is not to diminish the importance of keeping a polished and up-to-date resume - WorkBC can help with thischeck the online community calendar at cvevents.ca to see when they are offering workshops on resume building and other employment tips). Doing a ‘vibe’ check is valuable not only in workplace/workforce environments but also in the volunteering sector - who is the best fit for you?
The day begins at 9am with set-up
(and networking, of course) if you haven’t booked a table for your nonprofit organization or business yet, visit cvchamber.ca to register (and don’t forget that there are discounts available to tourism-based and non-profit organizations). The deadline is Friday February 28th, so don’t dawdle! Each registration comes with a ticket to the Lunch and Learn, and more tickets can be purchased for $30. This year lunch will be catered by Hopkins Harvest (and the choices look delicious). The presentation starts at 11:30.
The presentation this year is entitled: Employee Engagement Leads to a Thriving Workplace by Nicole Morgan, whose 20year career as a Senior HR professional has shaped organizations, empowered teams, and created lasting community impact. She has worked with the Shuswap Band, Kicking Horse Coffee and co-founded a non-profit that has evolved to provide Adaptive Snow Sports at Panorama Resort. This presentation will cover: insights on employee engagement, retention, and
upskilling in today’s workforce, life lessons and simple success measures, woven into a “recipe” for meaningful work and life, and how navigating uncharted paths and engaging your employees can lead to business opportunities and growth. This session is perfect for business leaders, HR professionals, and anyone seeking career transition insight.
At 1pm applicants are welcomed in to visit employers and organizations who are recruiting - bring a stack of resumes and your charming self; this is an opportunity to rub elbows and make connections from all over the Columbia Valley. Even if you don’t find the right position now, making a first impression can set you up for success in future employment or volunteer endeavors. The expo will remain open until 5pm; this is a fantastic opportunity for employers, organizations and applicants alike - see you there!
-Deanna Berrington
Thursday, February 27
• 10:00am-11:00am: Cover Letter Writing - Employment Workshop. Work BC Offices. Put "Your Best Foot Forward" and join us for our weekly employment workshops. For the month of January and February, there are regular and on-demand workshops happening every day. Call 250341-6889 or visit the local Invermere office to sign-up.
• 10:15am-1:00pm: Tech Tutoring. Invermere Public Library. Free help with your computer, phone or tablet, assistance with websites or online forms, or even to learn to play games on your phone or ipad! Please preregister by contacting Invermere Public Library 250-342-6416
• 10:30am-11:30am: Senior’s Fitness Columbia Valley Centre, $2 dropin.
• 11:30am-12:00pm: Little Lambs. Radium Library. Join us for songs, rhymes, and stories with your babies! Every Thursday, no registration required.
• 2:00pm-3:00pm: CommuniTea. Invermere Public Library. Join us for a cup of tea and a chat on the 2nd & 4th Thursday of each month. All welcome!
• 2:00pm-4:00pm: Tech Tutoring. Radium Public Library. Free help with your computer, phone or tablet, assistance with websites or online forms, or even to learn to play games on your phone or ipad! Please book an appointment by calling Radium Public Library at 250-347-2434.
• 3:30pm-8:00pm: Summit Youth Night at the Edge. Edgewater Community Hall Basement. For all youth Grade 6 to 12. Every Thursday join us for snacks, games, food, pool table, crafts at The Edge.
• 6:00pm-8:00pm: Come Cook with Me! College of the Rockies, Invermere Campus (by CBAL). Led by a chef, you will learn recipes and tips for preparing budget friendly, tasty, healthy meals. All supplies provided. Take your culinary creations home! Spaces are limited and registration is required. To learn more and to register contact: Misty Hawes 250-409-4251
6:45pm: Texas Hold ‘Em Poker Invermere Legion. $30 buy-in. 7:30pm: Families Housing that Fits. Zoom meeting with host Ben Postmus. Inclusive and supportive housing in your community. diversefamilyroots@gmail.com
7:30pm-9:30pm: Trivia Night Windermere Whitehouse Pub. Host Mandi Cox $3/person, teams of more than 6 will be split into two groups. Ages 19+
Friday, February 28
• 10:00am-11:00am: Interview Skills - Employment Workshop. Work BC Offices. Put "Your Best Foot Forward" and join us for our weekly employment workshops. For the month of January and February, there are regular and on-demand workshops happening every day. Call 250341-6889 or visit the local Invermere office to sign-up. 10:30am-11:00pm: Family Storytime. Invermere Public Library. Join us at the library for stories, songs and a craft! Geared towards preschool age, but all welcome to attend!
12:00pm-1:00pm: Soup for Lunch. Edgewater Community Hall. Take away available - bring your own thermos or jar and a container for dessert. $10 per person for hearty soup or chili bun or biscuit and dessert. Everyone welcome. Sponsored by Edgewater Seniors. 2:00pm-3:00pm: Friday Fundays! Invermere Public Library. Drop in
programming! Drop off allowed for ages 7+. Younger children are more than welcome to join with an adult! Crafternoon: a fun new craft each session!
• 6:30pm - close: Meat Draw and 50/50 in the Legion! Members and guests welcome!
• Saturday, March 1
• 10:00am–4:00pm: Columbia Valley Wedding Expo. Radium Hot Springs Centre. Join Travel Columbia Valley for the first Annual Columbia Valley Wedding Expo! Whether you're newly engaged or putting the final touches on your big day, this event is your one-stop shop for wedding inspiration and connections. Meet the best local vendors, including venues, photographers, caterers, florists, and more. Explore the latest trends in wedding décor and planning, and experience interactive booths, exclusive giveaways, and special offers for attendees. Food and alcohol beverages for sale on site. Photo ID must be present to purchase alcohol.
2:00pm-5:00pm: Lynne Grillmair Artist Reception. Pynelogs Cultural Centre. CVArts is delighted to host a special exhibition featuring the work of long-time local resident Lynne Grillmair. Enjoy our delicious buffet, and meet the artist at this opening reception for a month-long exhibition.
10:30am-11:00pm: Family Storytime. Invermere Public Library. Join us at the library for stories, songs and a craft! Geared towards preschool age, but all welcome to attend!
11:00am-12:30pm: LEGO/Duplo Club Invermere Public Library. We'll have Lego, Duplo, big blocks & more out to play with on Saturday mornings! All ages welcome.
3:00pm-4:30pm: Buddy Reading. Invermere Public Library. Practice reading aloud one-on-one with a staff member to build skill, confidence and a love of reading! 30 minute sessions at 3:00, 3:30 or 4:00 pm. By Appointment Only!! Contact Invermere Library to sign up.
6:30pm: Meat Draw and 50/50 in the Legion! Members and guests welcome!
Sunday, March 2
• 2:00pm: Cards, Cribbage and Darts Come to the Legion and have some fun! Members and guests welcome.
• 7:00pm-9:00pm: Live Music Horsethief Creek Pub & Eatery. Accompanied minors are permitted. No cover.
• 7:30pm: Dads Matter. Zoom meeting with host Ben Postmus. Dads connecting, Dads Supporting, Dads Inspiring. Do you have a son or daughter with Diverse Abilities? So do I. diversefamilyroots@gmail.com
Monday, March 3
• 10:00am-11:00am: Senior's Yoga Columbia Valley Centre, Invermere. $2 drop in, open to all seniors.
• 3:00pm-4:00pm: Buddy Reading. Invermere Public Library. Practice
reading aloud one-on-one with a staff member to build skill, confidence and a love of reading! 30 minute sessions at 3:00, 3:30 or 4:00 pm. By Appointment Only!! Contact Invermere Library to register.
• 6:30pm: Poker (Chip up for Charity). The Station Pub $20 buy-in. Every Monday.
Tuesday, March 4
• 10:30am-11:30am: Senior’s Fitness Columbia Valley Centre, $2 drop-in.
• 1:00pm-3:30pm: Art in the Afternoon. Radium Library. A weekly gathering for artists! A free program for local artists and art enthusiasts; whether you sketch, paint, carve, knit or crochet, bring your supplies and work alongside fellow artists.
• 1:00pm-3:00pm: Little Hands, Wise Hearts – Inter-generational Playgroup. Columbia Lake Recreation Centre. This unique program brings children (0-6 years) and Elders together for fun activities, storytelling, and connection, fostering learning and relationships across generations. Come be a part of this experience that embraces community and togetherness! *A parent or guardian must remain to attend to their children. Free for all ᕈakisq'nuknik members and by donation for non-members.
• 6:30pm-8:00pm: Second Winds Community Band Practice Invermere Catholic Church Annex. We are looking for new band members! Play an instrument? For info please email dalvande@shaw.ca
• 7:30pm: Families on Tuesday. Zoom meeting with host Ben Postmus. Families connecting, Families Sharing, Families Supporting Families: Support, Listening, Sharing, Connecting. diversefamilyroots@gmail.com
Wednesday, March 5
• 2:30-3:30pm: Invermere Community Drum Circle. Pynelogs Cultural Centre. Set free your inner rhythm, connect with your community, and let the beat move you! No drumming experience is needed and all the instruments are provided. Professionally facilitated, participants will learn about and experiment with different drums and drumming techniques from all around the world. You'll experience a fun and inclusive drumming workshop. Tickets: https://www.tickettailor.com/ events/rhythmbynature/1435696
• 10:00am-11:00am: Senior's Yoga Columbia Valley Centre, $2 dropin.
• 11:30am-12:00pm: Story Time. Radium Library - preschool & all ages.
• 3:30pm-4:45pm: After School Club. Invermere Public Library. A window of transition time between school and home or extracurriculars. Come colour, bead, play with LEGO, and catch up with friends! Open to all school-aged kids. Drop-off for Grade 2 and up. Please bring your own snacks! One time registration required. Find the form on the After School Club page on our website or fill it out at the library.
• 6:00pm-9:00pm: Wednesday Dinners & Meat Draw & 50/50 Invermere Legion. All welcome.
Record turnout at Polar Plunge pleases organizers
By Steve Hubrecht steve@columbiavalleypioneer.com
The nonprofit Recreation Adapted (RAD) Society’s annual Polar Plunge saw a record turnout recently.
The plunge was held over the B.C. Family Day long weekend on Saturday, Feb. 15 and Sunday, Feb. 16. It was the ninth edition of the event, which raises funds for RAD to help increase outdoor recreation options in the Columbia Valley for people who face mobility challenges.
This year more than 400 plungers came out, pledged funds, and jumped into Taynton Bay through a big hole in the ice, and there were huge crowds of spectators at the two-day event. Organizers estimated a total turnout of 1,500 people, including polar swimmers and onlookers.
The 400 plungers was an increase from the already-eye catching number of 375 who jumped into the icy lake last year.
RAD Society founder Tanelle Bolt explained that kids in particular seemed to love using the adaptive ice skating sledges and adaptive nordic ski equipment at the event.
“They were using them all day. They seemed to be having so much fun,” Bolt told the Pioneer. She added that this equipment is available for the public to
rent at Inside Edge Boutique and Sports store in downtown Invermere.
More than $15,000 was raised during the Polar Plunge, which will be used to help create barrier-free access at Kinsmen Beach. There is an accessibility ramp to help those facing mobility challenges get into the water at the beach at James Chabot Provincial Park, but not at Kinsmen Beach where “the sand is a barrier 12 months a year,” explained Bolt.
“We are so grateful to the people who commit time and energy to make this happen,” said Bolt, giving special thanks to the event’s chief organizer Ryan Karl.
The RAD Society has partnered with the University of British Columbia (UBC) in recent years on a number of initiatives, including research on the effects on a community of having accessible outdoor recreation gear available for rent. The data from that research should be coming out soon, Bolt noted.
Although RAD’s reach now extends across the province, “we will continue to make a mark in Invermere,” said Bolt.
Some of the accessible outdoor recreation gear available for the public to rent in Invermere is reportedly the only such publicly available gear of its kind anywhere in the world.
To find out more visit www.radsociety.ca.
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This year’s Polar Plunge saw an encouraging turnout of 400 people who braved the icy waters of Lake Windermere on February 15-16.
PHOTOS STEVE HUBRECHT
Ski racers rip in honour of Helen Bavin
By Steve Hubrecht steve@columbiavalleypioneer.com
Hordes of young alpine ski racers zipped down the slopes of Fairmont Hot Springs Ski Resort last weekend, slaloming through gates, hooting and hollering with friends, cheering on teammates, and in general having a darn good time. Helen Bavin would’ve loved it.
More than 130 kids age five to 12 participated in this year’s edition of the Helen Bavin Memorial Ski Race on Sunday, Feb. 23, coming from four different alpine ski race clubs from up and down the Columbia Valley and neighbouring areas: the hometown Team Fairmont Racers, the Windermere Valley Ski Club, the Golden Kicking Horse Alpine Ski Team (GKHAT), and the Kimberley Alpine Team (KAT).
The race has been running since 1988, and is named in honour of former valley resident Helen Bavin, who passed away in 1987.
Helen was a tremendous advocate for kids ski racing, explained Fairmont ski area manager Peter Harding. “She would write in the newspaper about all the kids’ races. The reports were very detailed, and she came to every race. It was obvious she cared a lot about the kids,” said Harding.
The Helen Bavin Memorial Ski Race puts the emphasis squarely on having fun. It’s a dual slalom event, with two competitors simultaneously racing down parallel courses, and the racers are timed. But rather than individual skiers earning merit for their individual times, results are tabulated on a per club basis. The times of all racers on each club are added together, then divided by the number of young skiers in
that club. The fastest overall team is the winner.
“At that age it really should be more about having fun than anything else, so that’s what we try to do,” said Harding.
Team Fairmont Racers was the fastest overall team at the Helen Bavin Memorial Ski Race last weekend (and won the event for the second year in a row), with an average time of 36.7996 seconds, followed by GKHAT (average time 37.5155 seconds), the Windermere Valley Ski Club (average time 38.1060 seconds), and KAT (average time 39.8079).
Fairmont ski race program organizer Annemarie Deagnon said the race was a huge success, running smoothly, with standout conditions, and thanked all the volunteers who made the event happen.
Several of those gathered on the deck during the awards ceremony were old enough to recall Helen, and remembered her as a committed, passionate woman.
Helen’s son Pat was not at the race, but spoke to the Pioneer earlier about his mom’s long involvement with skiing in the valley and her many other volunteer efforts.
“She was an avid skier, even though she only started skiing later in life. She loved the culture and lifestyle of skiing and the social side of it,” Pat told the Pioneer
Helen helped establish the Windermere Valley Ski Club back in the 1950s when there were no ski resorts in the valley, and club members banded together to create a rope tow.
As the ski scene in the valley grew, Helen was always on hand to help out.
“Any time there was a race, she was helping organize it. She was always the
starter. And in those days the starter did the countdown verbally. She loved doing that,” said Pat.
In fact, Pat has a photo of his mom showing Helen posing for a snap with famous CBC sport commentator Brian Williams during a World Cup race at Panorama Mountain Resort in the 1980s.
Helen was born in Calgary in 1921, and moved to the Columbia Valley in early 1940s, where she met and married her husband Hal. Helen’s family lived in Windermere where they operated the Coldstream Cabins. Hal lived on the old Sunshine Ranch down Westside Road, and he would canoe across the lake to Windermere to see Helen.
“She was a character,” Pat said of his mother, explaining that when his parents were first married their only vehicle was a Harley Davidson. Helen would sometimes ride the Harley across frozen Lake Windermere. A few times the giant motorcycle toppled over while Helen
was riding it. The Harley was so large she couldn’t pick it back up on her own, so she walked several kilometres to shore to find a bystander to help her get the motorcycle upright again. It didn’t deter her one bit from heading out on the Harley the next time.
Aside from skiing, Helen’s hobbies included baking, gardening (“she had an incredible asparagus patch” remembers Pat) and hiking.
“She was very engaged in the community, she volunteered a lot and was known for her campaigns for the environment. She was a very early environmentalist,” said Pat. “She was always up to something.”
Pat credits his own community activism and environmentalism to his mom.
“That’s how my mom brought us kids up — to have an opinion on what was happening in our community and to our planet,” he said.
DISTRICT OF INVERMERE
NOTICE OF SHORT-TERM RENTAL TEMPORARY USE PERMIT APPLICATIONS UNDER DISTRICT OF INVERMERE CONSIDERATION
Pursuant to Section 494 of the Local Government Act, public notice is hereby given that the District of Invermere is considering the Short-Term Rental Temporary Use Permits (STU-TUP) listed in the table below. Issuance of the permits will be considered by council or a delegated authority at the Invermere District office at 914 - 8th Avenue in Invermere, BC, at the corresponding date and time as listed below:
All persons who believe they are affected by any of the Short-Term Rental Temporary Use Permits are encouraged to submit their concerns in writing to the Invermere office at 914 - 8th Avenue, Invermere, BC, or by email to dpcoordinator@invermere.net prior to March 3, 2025 at 10:00am. All submissions should include your name, address, and contact information. All written submissions are public information pursuant to the Freedom of Information and Protection of Privacy Act. All submissions will form part of the public record. Questions about the disclosure of your personal information may be referred to the Corporate Officer at 250-342-9281. For more information regarding the above applications contact the Invermere Planning Department at 250-342-9281 or by email at dpcoordinator@invermere.net or at the Invermere Office between the hours of 8:30 AM and 4:30 PM, Monday to Friday, excluding statutory holidays. PO Box 339, 914 - 8th Ave, Invermere BC V0A 1K0 250-342-9281 info@invermere.net www.invermere.net
Team Fairmont alpine racers get set to carve in the Helen Bavin Memorial Race.
PHOTO JENNY HUBRECHT
Luthier follows his passion
Columbia Valley Pioneer staff
PROFESSIONAL
LUTHIER SERVICES
• full-service repairs
• custom restoration
• major adjustments
Repairing, restoring and recycling guitars has become a passion for a dedicated luthier who wants to make the world go round through music.
For 20 years John Jenkins has plied his trade that he calls Smalltown Guitars in Parson, where souls are actually soothed (once a broken or old guitar is fixed or restored).
As a teenager, Jenkins’ life changed when he heard ‘Rockin’ in the Free World’ by Neil Young. Since then he always wanted to have a guitar in his hands.
He learned how to build guitars through a course in 2002. He quickly discovered how to fix them too, which set his career wheels in motion.
At this point in time he became aware of the environmental impact that guitar-making had on old growth forests, such as sitka spruce and rosewood.
“The decline of these trees has a lot to do with instrument making,” Jenkins said, adding that further research prompted him to re-route his vision by delving more into repairing and restoring guitars for people.
“I became passionate about keeping guitars in good condition, repairing, restoration, and adjust-
ment.”
Jenkins has seen a number of broken guitars in need of major repair.
“People love their guitars, they become very attached to them. To take a guitar that someone has an attachment to and repairing it so they can play it again is very rewarding.”
Sometimes all it takes is a simple adjustment to make a guitar sing again. Often people will struggle with their guitars and become frustrated to the point they will put them back in the closet. It’s a shame because that’s not where they belong. Just like laughter, playing the guitar is the best medicine.
Sharing his skill to make people happy is what drives Jenkins to do what he does every day. And you don’t have to go to a major city to get your guitar fixed, which is a relief.
In addition to tuning guitars, he also gives lessons And no, you don’t need an “ear for music” to learn how to play well. Jenkins, who buys and sells guitars, also helps people find the specific guitar they are looking for. That’s because his goal is to keep guitars in circulation. For more information, call 250-439-9531 or visit smalltownguitars.ca.
The Regional District of East Kootenay (RDEK) Board of Directors is considering an application from Christine and Richard McIver to amend the zoning designation of the subject property to permit a future two lot subdivision. The property is located at 1847 Victoria Avenue in Windermere as shown on the attached map. Bylaw No. 3375 cited as “Regional District of East Kootenay – Columbia Valley Zoning Bylaw No. 3255, 2023 – Amendment Bylaw No. 23, 2025 (Windermere South / McIver)” will amend the zone designation of Lot A, District Lot 8, Kootenay District, Plan EPP 54602 is amended from R-1, Single Family Residential Zone to R-1(D), Single Family Residential (Resort) Zone.
A public hearing for the proposed bylaw will not be held pursuant to Section 467 of the Local Government Act which states that a local government must not hold a public hearing if:
a) An Official Community Plan is in effect for the area that is the subject of the proposed bylaw,
b) The bylaw is consistent with the official community plan,
c) The sole purpose of the bylaw is to permit a development that is, in whole or in part, a residential development, and
d) The residential component of the development accounts for at least half of the gross floor area of all the buildings and other structures proposed as part of the development. Bylaw No. 3375 is consistent with the Lake Windermere Official Community Plan Bylaw No. 2929, 2019. The Official Community Plan designation for the subject property is R-SF, Residential Low Density which supports single family residential subdivisions, duplexes and zoning that supports secondary suites. Bylaw 3375 will be considered for 1st, 2nd and 3rd readings, and adoption by the RDEK Board of Directors on March 14, 2025.
If you believe that your interest in property is affected by the proposed Bylaw, you may:
• inspect the Bylaw and supporting information by requesting that an information package be emailed to you by contacting kgilbert@rdek.bc.ca. Information packages may be requested up until Thursday, March 6, 2025 at 12:00 pm
• mail or email written submissions to the addresses shown below before Thursday, March 6, 2025 at 12:00 pm SUBMISSIONS CANNOT BE ACCEPTED AFTER THE DEADLINE.
All submissions will form part of the public record and will be published in a meeting agenda posted online. Personal contact information such as phone and email will be removed from written submissions. Questions about the disclosure of your personal information may be referred to the Corporate Officer at 250-489-2791 or 1-888-478-7335. This notice is not an interpretation of the Bylaw. For more information, contact Krista Gilbert, Planning Technician at 250-489-0314 or toll free at 1-888-478-7335 or email kgilbert@rdek.bc.ca.
PUBLIC NOTICE – PARCEL TAX ROLLS
The RDEK’s 2025 – 2029 Draft Five Year Financial Plan is now open for public comment.
Copies of the 5-Year Financial Plan and comment forms are available at engage.rdek.bc.ca/budget or can be mailed to you by calling 1-888-478-7335
Owners of property located in these parcel tax areas may request that the roll be amended, in relation to their own property, on one or more of the following grounds:
• there is an error or omission respecting a name or address on the assessment roll;
•there is an error or omission respecting the inclusion of a parcel;
• there is an error or omission respecting the taxable frontage of a parcel (for water or sewer service areas that use frontage for taxation); and
• an exemption has been improperly allowed or disallowed.
The parcel tax rolls are available for inspection, at the Regional District of East Kootenay office in Cranbrook during regular office hours.
Requests for amendments must be made in writing to the Regional District of East Kootenay, 19 - 24 Avenue South, Cranbrook BC V1C 3H8, on or before Tuesday, March 11, 2025 at 12:00 pm. If requests are received, a Parcel Tax Roll Review Panel will meet at 1:00 pm on Friday, March 14, 2025 in the RDEK Board Room.
Americans can only envy us Canadians
by Arnold Malone
In a previous article I outlined some reasons why Americans would wish they had the advantages that we in Canada enjoy.
These are reasons why Canada will never become a 51st state but they may cause Americans to wish they were Canadian:
• Canada is a happier place. For decades international rankings have placed Canadians as being happier and more content with life than our neighbours to the south. A recent European poll asking, “If you could not live in your home country which country would you choose?” Canada was the number one first choice.
• For years Canada has recorded a longer life span than the USA. Currently, Canada has an average life expectancy of 82.72 years while the USA has an expectancy of 76.1 years.
• As for a healthy population Canada’s obesity numbers are also better than in the USA. In Canada 24.3 per cent of Canadians are obese while in the USA the obesity rate is 40 per cent. In the states of West Virginia, Mississippi, and Arkansas obesity soars much higher.
• Guns and mass shootings: Phew! Here we have a huge difference. In Canada there are 34.7 guns for every 100 citizens. In the USA there are 120 guns for every 100 citizens. In 2024 there were 488 mass shootings in the USA, down from 690 mass shootings in 2021. I was unable to find dependable numbers for Canada but it is a whole lot less than the USA where they average more than one mass shooting every day.
• In Canada judges are appointed for their understanding of the law and their ability to be objective and non-partisan. Americans politicalize their judicial system. Judges have a tendency to favour those who appointed them. By contrast, Stephen Harper, when prime minister,
appointed seven of the nine justices to the Supreme Court and spent $4.7 million on 15 losing cases. Canadian courts are not politicalized.
• Prison systems: United States has 10.35 million people incarcerated. As a per cent of population, the USA has the world’s highest percentage of prisoners. Prison sentences are also given for what other countries would consider a minor offence.
• The poverty rates: This is a more difficult issue to compare since many countries define poverty differently. Given that qualification, it is still easy to assert that Canada has a lot fewer persons in poverty as a per cent of population than the USA. The Organization Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD) states: “The USA has the highest rate of poverty amoung 26 most developed countries.” Canada’s poverty rate is 7.3 per cent while the USA is 19 per cent. Americans have 38 million people who are in poverty.
• Canadians would consider the voting ballot in the USA laughable. Everybody seems to be elected. The ballot is pages upon pages. The sheriff, the animal control officer, the coroner, even the local judges are elected. The very long list of elected people might seem democratic but the question needs to be asked: “For a sheriff is there a Republican or a Democrat way to enforce the law?” Should they not enforce the law without any political thought? The same questions need to be asked about the dog catcher, the health authority, the judges and so many more.
So, all of this talk about Canada becoming a 51st state begs the question: “Why in the world would we ever want to degrade the advantages we already have?” Canada is a place where we should continue to make the best better.
WildSafe coordinator eyed
rector Roberta Schnider have expressed their wish to continue their participation in 2025.
D O N A T I O N S N E E D E D !
The RDEK is hoping to provide a community coordinator for the WildSafeBC program in Electoral Areas F and G.
The board recently approved a program contribution fee of $5,000 from the Discretionary Grants-in-Aid Service, including $4,375 from Area F and $625 from Area G.
An application (for the coordinator position) has been submitted.
Electoral Areas F and G have participated in the WildSafeBC program since 2015. Director Susan Clovechok and Di-
The BC Conservation Foundation partners with local communities to hire a part-time coordinator to deliver WildSafeBC. The primary goal is to reduce conflicts and help keep wildlife wild and the community safe. The program uses a multi-faceted approach to increase community knowledge with regards to local wildlife and human-wildlife conflict. The work includes door-to-door outreach, public presentations, bear spray workshops, electric fencing support, and community awareness events.
Beneath the Surface is raising $340,000 to bring Ultrasound Service to the Invermere & District Hospital.
Learn about the campaign and ways to donate, show support, or host a fundraiser at ekfh.ca.
Americans are very patriotic but they would be better off as Canadian citizens, according to Arnold Malone. PHOTO FLASHPOP/GETTY IMAGES
Columbia Valley Pioneer staff
Upcoming shows
• May 17: The Mountain Music Bash at Eddie Mountain Memorial Arena featuring Kim Mitchell and local legends Humongous Fungus.
• July 4: Blue Rodeo at the 13th Street Block Party.
• August 3: A rockin' evening with Trooper, Five Alarm Funk, and Hotel California (the world's best Eagles tribute) to kick off the Block Party.
• August 31: Trib N Rib Festival –the season finale concert. Get ready for a night filled with the sounds of ACDC, The Rolling Stones, and Santana performed by 21 Gunn Salute (flown in from Quebec City), The Blushing Brides (from Toronto), and Abraxas with a three-piece horn section (also from Toronto). Enjoy delicious ribs, chicken, and popular street food.
We couldn't have a more fitting
signature act for this summer series than Blue Rodeo. Jeff Parry Promotions brought them to Invermere back in 1989 during their Diamond Mine album tour. At that time, they were rapidly rising in popularity and Invermere sold more tickets than any other location on the western tour. Their recent documentary “Lost Together” premiered at this year’s Invermere Film Festival to enthusiastic applause, making their return even more special. Now, 36 years later and with Parry as part of Mountain Home Productions, they’ll perform on the street outside Eddie Mountain Memorial Arena during the 13th Street Block Party!
Season passes are currently available at MountainHomeProductions. com. Choose from three different pass levels, and take advantage of 10 per cent off and choose from payment plans if needed.
Stay tuned for updates on individual show tickets through Mountain Home Productions—be sure to sign up for our mailing list. Season pass holders will receive the best available seating areas in
both the VIP table and VIP sections.
In addition to the summer series, Mountain Home Productions is proud to continue to present its Legend Series, including a tribute to Billy Joel and Elton John on April 4.
We’re already planning more exciting shows for the fall and winter, responding to the community's enthusiasm for dinner theater experiences and padded seating options.
Furthermore, Mountain Home Productions is thrilled to announce its upcoming production of the Foreigner/54-40 Canadian tour, which will span from St. John’s to Victoria this fall. Stay tuned to our website and emails for arrangements regarding a bus and pre-party for the Cranbrook show.
It’s been an exhilarating year, and we are proud to solidify Invermere's reputation as Music Town BC!
PIONEER CLASSIFIEDS
ANNOUNCEMENTS ANNOUNCEMENTS
BUYING OR SELLING?
Serving Invermere & Area cell 250-341-1202 gerry@gerrytaft.ca
Al-Anon. Are you concerned about or affected by someone else’s drinking? For more information or to speak with someone from our fellowship, please call 250-878-2448 or 250-342-8392
Narcotics Anonymous. Mondays 7-8 pm, ONLY VIA ZOOM. Meeting ID: 772 6822 4234 Passcode: 4ZgPXP
Alcoholics Anonymous. If alcohol is causing problems or conflict in your life, AA can help. All meetings are at 7 pm. Columbia United AA, Invermere: Saturday, Sunday, Tuesday and Wednesday at the BC Service Building, South End-624 4th St. Invermere. Please call 250-3422424 for more information or to speak with someone from our fellowship.
Cheers to whoever turned in my pink wallet to Valley Foods. I got it back with all contents intact-proving there are still good people out there.
Cheers to Patty M. for your generosity and kindness.
Cheers to Pam and Gord for always being so good and helping others.
Cheers to the lovely Mr. Rick, manager at Sobeys for the mini cheesecake for my 70th.
Big cheers to the Invermere Public Works department for the quick and wonderful job y’all do in clearing the roads, sidewalks, & paths, especially at Spider Park, & the path along the south side of the gardens. It’s so greatly appreciated!!
Cheers to Greg, Tracey, Shelly and all the staff at Crossroads Market for the wonderful service they provide to a senior. Your ongoing friendship, special delivery orders and get well cards are much appreciated. Great customer service.
Cheers to the great couple Rod and Leigh for “Paying it Forward” for me! I’m forever grateful and inspired and will pass it on! Have a great day!
Cheers to Marlene McLaughlin for bringing treats to the office. You are so sweet! Pun intended.
Cheers to Dr.Schaeffer, Jennifer, Christina, and nurses Lacie, Shelby and Alene for the super care they gave to me when I was in the hospital.
Cheers to Cheri for buying the Copenhagen treats on Thursdays. Yum!
MILESTONE
Happy 80th Birthday
Grace Sander
You’re invited to an Open House Sunday, Mar 2, 2025 from 3-5pm . 707 14 St, Invermere. Join us for cake, coffee/tea. No gifts. Bring along a nonperishable item to donate to the food bank.
RV SITES
RV Site - Seasonal lease April 15 to September 15 $7600
SERVICES
K. B. Creations Handyman services, Renovation’s, Masonry, Plumbing, Drywall & Painting. Please call Kevin 250-688-2897
Half duplex for rent May 1/ June 1. Spacious Two bedroom and den with deck for 1 yr. lease5 min. walk to downtown Invermere. $ 1950 plus cable/hydro. NS/NP. 403-874-048
This RV site offers an ideal getaway, nestled in the picturesque Creekside in the Canyon, Radium. Perfect for those seeking a peaceful retreat or an affordable place to stay while working in the valley. Spacious lot with access to on-site amenities including a heated swimming pool, gazebo, shed and campfire. Breathtaking views and wildlife experiences. Phone 403-472-2314
THE HEARTFELT COMPANION Services for Seniors. Since 2014 we’ve provided kind and compassionate non-medical care, transportation to Cranbrook, overnight care, meal prep, grocery shopping and more. Excellent local references. 250-341-5683
Heartfeltcompanionservices.com
B. B.’s Home & Design Services
Renovations, Masonry & Handyman Service, House checks, house cleaning/dump runs. 250-688-2897
DUPLEX FOR RENT
BEYOND THE BLUE LINE
Rockies brace for first round of playoffs
By Stephanie Stevens
The end of one season signals the start of the next.
The final games of the Kootenay International Junior Hockey League (KIJHL) regular season were played last weekend, and for the Columbia Valley Rockies, a Friday win over the Fernie Ghostriders was an auspicious bridge to the first round of playoff games.
A crowd of 850 in Eddie Mountain Memorial Arena cheered the boys on to a home ice 4-1 victory over the visiting ‘Riders, who sit in second place in the Eddie Mountain Division. The fastpaced game was slowed a few times but it didn’t take away from the energy of hockey being played.
Opening up scoring in the first in his 100th game as a Rockie was Paddy Donahue (assists by Jack Hefferan and Peter Godley).
Teo Fath (Kobe Mason) stepped up in the second, and the third period saw Noah Asmundson (Ashton Sledz) and Bryan Kim (Godley and Jack Thorne) clinch the win.
Goalie Hunter Arntsen stopped 26 of 27 shots on goal.
Head coach Tayler Sincennes said he is pleased with the team’s performance, adding their objective going into the playoffs this week will be fo-
cussed heavily on attention to detail.
“We have to be really sharp, minimize large mistakes and execute at a really high level throughout our playoffs,” he said. “Our guys are aware of that and our game had reflected it for the most part in the last couple of weeks. There are so many guys that have elevated their games as the season has gone on . . . I feel like our group is in a good spot heading into the playoffs.”
Sincennes added the buy-in and efforts he is seeing going into this weekend bode well for the team.
Captain Kobe Mason said he is feeling “really good” about where the team is at.
“I think all the pieces we need to win are there and now it's about coming together and sacrificing everything for each other,” said Mason. “I think we've seen amazing development in each guy and it's been nice to see them find their roles and playing them well every single night. We are very excited to get going in the first round.”
This Friday, Feb. 28 and Saturday, March 1 will be away games in Fernie as the two teams head into the best of seven first round. Monday, March 3 and Tuesday, March 4 will see continued playoff action in the Eddie, and if needed the Rockies will head back to Fernie on Friday.
PUBLIC NOTICE
Public Notice
With a rebel yell - Billy Idol has nothing on Rockies’ forward Teo Fath. PHOTOS STEPHANIE STEVENS
Collaboration is at heart of how United Way BC works
Submitted advertorial
When we think about the United Way, it’s easy to view the organization as a big, faceless machine that distributes large sums of money in heavily populated areas through impersonal and inaccessible programs, but did you know that United Way BC is currently supporting some incredibly important programs right here in the Columbia Valley?
Since October of 2023, United Way funded organizations across the province have joined together to become United Way BC, with the only goal being to help communities throughout BC. Expanding the scope provincially has allowed the testing of innovative programs and valuable lessons have been learned to really get to know what matters in even the smallest communities.
This mindset has helped establish several exciting programs province wide, but also right here at home in the East Kootenays. In a lot of areas, United Way BC has chosen to support existing non-profits already at work in the community. By empowering these grassroots organizations, much needed resources can get directly to where they are needed most, right in the affected community.
Some of the programs supported by United Way BC in our area include: the Volunteer Coordination and Supports Enhancement grant, a funding stream that was captured by the Hospice Society of the Columbia Valley to hire a volunteer coordinator for all community based senior service groups, Better at Home initiative, which offers a suite of non-medical home support services to seniors, helping them maintain independence and stay connected within their communities; family and friends caregiver sup-
Columbia Valley Churches
ports, specifically designed to aid caregivers who offer unpaid care for older adults living in the community with higher needs, including chronic disease, frailty, or life-limiting conditions and social prescribing, a health care approach that recognizes the profound impact of social and environmental factors on a person’s well-being that connects older adults with non-medical services and activities in their community.
Each of these important programs falls under the Healthy Aging banner, which has invested over $1.5 million into community based seniors services in the East Kootenays alone for 2024/2025. This total only includes funding from the Healthy Aging program and does not include any investments that are made by any other branch of the United Way in the area.
“It’s been really eye opening seeing just how much is being done and supported behind the scenes,” said local volunteer coordinator, Joshua Estabrooks. “The funding the Hospice Society received to establish my position comes directly from the Healthy Aging program,” he said.
“Collaboration is at the heart of how United Way BC works in community,” Estabrooks said, adding that the United Way is a trusted partner with the provincial government, including with BC ministries such as Health, Social Development and Poverty Reduction, the Attorney General, Public Safety and Solicitor General, Emergency Management and Climate Readiness, and Municipal Affairs, as well as partnerships with federal funding and municipal governments.
For more information on how you can get involved with any of the locally funded initiatives, send volunteer coordinator Estabrooks an email at volunteer@hospicesocietycv.com and ask to be connected to a local non profit group that matches your interests.
LAKE WINDERMERE ALLIANCE CHURCH
While you are with us, you are always welcome to join us. Sunday at 10:30 am 326 10th Avenue, Invermere 250-342-9535 | www.lwac.ca
WINDERMERE VALLEY SHARED MINISTRY (Anglican - United)
Sunday Services - 10:30 am 110 - 7th Ave. in Invermere website - wvsm.ca
Minister: Brent Woodard 250-342-6644
VALLEY CHRISTIAN ASSEMBLY
Pastor: Justin Furse
Sunday 10 a.m. Worship Service 4814 Highway Drive, Windermere 250-342-9511 | www.vcachurch.net
ROMAN CATHOLIC CHURCH
St. Anthony’s, Canal Flats: Saturday, 4 pm Canadian Martyrs’, Invermere: Saturday 5 pm, Sunday 9 am St. Joseph’s, Radium: Sunday 11 am Father Francis Dela Cruz | 712 -12th Ave., Invermere 250-342-6167
RADIUM CHRISTIAN FELLOWSHIP
Sunday 10 a.m. Worship service Pastor Wayne and Linda Frater | 250-342-6633 #4, 7553 Main St. Radium | 250-347-9937
CHURCH OF JESUS CHRIST OF LATTER-DAY SAINTS
Worship Service, Sunday, 11 a.m. Sunday School, 10 a.m. President Kendyn Mackensie • Columbia Valley Branch • 5014 Fairway, Fairmont Hot Springs 250-439-9041
CHURCH OF CHRIST (Iglesia ni Cristo)
Worship Service: Sunday 9 a.m., Thursday 7:45 p.m. Chamber of Commerce (Lions Hall) For inquiries: 250-688-1643 250-270-2208 or 250-688-0629 For more info about the church, you can Google online at incmedia.org or pasugo.com.ph