VALLEY NEWS Council revisits, approves tower location
By Steve Hubrecht steve@columbiavalleypioneer.com
There may in fact be a new cell phone tower in downtown Invermere after all.
Rogers Communications Inc. wants to improve cell service in Invermere and parts of the Columbia Valley and has spent several years hunting for a location to erect a 25-metre high monopole.
The pole would make cell coverage better, but concerned residents have repeatedly spoken against having it near their homes, businesses, and public institutions. Several locations, some private and others public, have already been earmarked but turned down.
About a year ago Rogers proposed putting the pole behind Eddie Mountain Memorial Arena on a piece of municipally-owned land to the east of the parking lot that holds the weekly Farmers’ and Artists Market in the summer.
Public consultation on this spot resulted in plenty of feedback, most of it negative, from residents who outlined concerns about how close it was to their homes, to the market, to downtown business, and to an osprey nest.
In a committee of the whole meeting in December, Invermere councillors outlined opinions that were generally against the location, and asked Rogers to find an alternate spot or look at perhaps having a main tower somewhere well outside of town and then have a much smaller booster tower in the heart of the community.
But last week there was a hesitant U-turn in Invermere council’s opinion after a presentation from Rogers and Cypress Land Services representative Justin Rockafellow. The presentation on February 25 prompted a change of heart — albeit a reluctant one — from council members who voted at the meeting to accept the chosen downtown location but to ask Rogers about ways to reduce the tower’s height and visual impact to the downtown.
Rockafellow outlined that Rogers reviewed nine separate potential locations for the cell tower, and all of them were rejected for various reasons, except for the one behind the arena.
The other locations included a spot between the Windermere Valley Childcare Society daycare and Invermere firehall; at Mount Nelson Athletic Park (MNAP); on the roof of the downtown Invermere Inn; at the site of the old community hall on 8th Avenue (which is now a gravel parking lot); on privately owned land near the provincial government services buildings on 4th Street; a spot in the industrial park; a place in Athalmer near the Lake Windermere Resort lands; and a location near the crossroads.
Rockafellow said Rogers wants a
final decision from council, either for or against the location by the arena. If council is in favour of the location, Rogers can discuss options to camouflage the tower and otherwise make it more palatable to the public. “If not, on our side, it’s an area that’s been pretty much exhausted . . . I don’t know if they’ll be any other options in terms of improving coverage in the next five to 10 years.”
Councillor Gerry Taft asked about the previously mentioned idea of having several smaller cell towers instead of one large one.
“The technology is what it is,” replied Rockafellow, adding several small cell towers would not provide enough coverage to improve cell service unless they were spaced very closely together — no more than 25 to 40 metres apart. Multiple small cell towers are “not economically feasible in an area like this (the Columbia Valley) without hundreds and hundreds of installations.”
Rockafellow also said according to federal guidelines, concerns about potential health risks are not a reason to reject proposed cell towers.
Councillor Grant Kelly was unconvinced on that point. Although cell phones have been around for at least two decades, it’s still too early into the cell phone era to know for sure about the potential long-term health impacts of cell towers, said Kelly, adding he means “not just for us (humans) as a species, but for all species, including wildlife.”
Just because federal agencies have set standards around cell towers, doesn’t meant those standards are the right ones, added Kelly.
Taft pointed out that at the December committee of the whole meeting “there was a lot of opposition expressed” by councillors to the arena location, and they had been hopeful another spot could be found.
“I don’t love this tower. I don’t love this location. But I don’t see any viable alternative. And there is a possibility that if we keep dragging this out, Rogers will decide to focus on upgrades elsewhere,” said Taft. “There’s a balance we need to strike. The service is needed. Just saying ‘no’ (to the spot by the arena) would be the popular option. It would make the neighbours happy. But I’m not sure it’s the right thing.”
Other councillors agreed with Taft that they did not like the arena location, but that better service is needed. Councillor Theresa Wood expressed hope that after a while the cell tower would not stand out to residents and passersby as much as it will initially.
In the end council voted to accept the location, with the caveat that it wants further discussions with Rogers about the
exact
and other measures to
its visual impact.
Map of potential new cell tower locations examined by Rogers Communications Inc. Screenshot from council documents.
Fire destroys Fairmont home
Columbia Valley Pioneer staff
A fire in Fairmont Tuesday morning destroyed a residence but no injuries were reported.
Sinclair said the vacant building was a total loss, noting the crew focused its efforts on defensive actions to “protect a neighbouring building and prevent the fire from getting into surrounding trees.”
NOTICE OF SITTING
Parcel Tax Rolls
The first sitting of the Parcel Tax Review Panel will be held at the Municipal Office at 914 – 8th Avenue, Invermere, B.C. on Thursday, March 20, 2025 at 10:00 am. The Parcel Tax Review Panel may review and correct the Parcel Tax Roll and hear complaints on one or more of the following grounds:
• there is an error or omission respecting a name or address on the parcel tax roll; there is an error or omission respecting the inclusion of a parcel; there is an error or omission respecting the taxable area or the taxable frontage of a parcel; an exemption has been improperly allowed or disallowed.
The Parcel Tax Roll will be open for inspection at the Municipal Office during regular office hours.
A complaint shall not be heard by the review panel unless notice of the appeal has been made in writing to the Director of Finance of the District of Invermere, Box 339, Invermere, B.C. V0A 1K0 by 10:00 a.m. on March 18, 2025
Karen L. Coté Director of Finance
Firefighters responded to the scene where the home was fully engulfed in flames in the Mountainside area at 4:35 a.m.
Columbia Valley Rural Fire & Rescue Chief Drew
A total of 10 members from the Fairmont Fire Department responded, along with three pieces of apparatus.
The cause is still under investigation.
Avalanche warning issued
Columbia Valley Pioneer staff
Backcountry users in B.C. and Alberta are being cautioned about avalanche hazards in their region.
Last week Avalanche Canada issued a special warning for recreational backcountry users: a cohesive slab of snow 30 to 100 centimetres thick sits over a variety of prominent weak layers in the upper snowpack that formed during dry periods in January and February. This has created a reactive avalanche problem leading to serious incidents and close calls.
While natural avalanche activity has slowed, human-triggered avalanches remain likely.
“We’ve been tracking these weak layers closely over this past month,” said Avalanche Canada forecaster Zoe Ryan. “Now that the snow on top of them has consolidated, it’s a recipe for dangerous avalanches. These highly problematic layers remain primed for human triggering.”
Ryan said the snowpack is going to take time to strengthen. “Good travel habits and selecting conservative terrain will be critical because getting caught in one of these avalanches could be deadly.”
To reduce risk, Avalanche Canada recommends sticking to lower-angle slopes (less than 30 degrees), choosing terrain that minimizes the consequences of an avalanche, travelling one at a time when exposed to avalanche terrain, and avoiding sun-exposed slopes during warm and/or sunny conditions.
“Avalanche conditions across B.C. are especially dangerous, and I strongly urge people to stay alert and be extra careful,” said Kelly Greene, Minister of Emergency Management and Climate Readiness. “The weather is starting to warm, and that will bring more people to the mountains. Avalanches can have devastating consequences and, tragically, have claimed the lives of two people in B.C. this year.”
Green urged everyone to check the avalanche forecast before heading out, make cautious decisions, and consider delaying their trip to the mountains until conditions are safer.
Backcountry users should always check the avalanche forecast at www.avalanche.ca. Everyone in a backcountry group must carry essential rescue gear— an avalanche transceiver, probe, and shovel—and have the training to know how to use it.
A residence in the Mountainside area of Fairmont Hot Springs was destroyed by fire Tuesday morning. There were no injuries, and the cause is still under investigation. Shown here are Fairmont firefighters actioning the blaze.
PHOTO RDEK
Housing project gets development permit
By Steve Hubrecht steve@columbiavalleypioneer.com
The proposed Columbia Valley Metis Association (CVMA)-Metis Nation British Columbia (MNBC) housing project got its development permit last week.
Invermere council approved the permit during its Tuesday, Feb. 25 meeting, which also effectively triggered the Official Community Plan (OCP) and zoning bylaw amendments that allow the project to go ahead. Councillors had given initial reading to the amendments back in the fall, but held off on adoption pending a development permit.
The project became one of the hottest issues in Invermere back in spring 2024, when plans for it first became public. A pair of public hearings in 2024 drew comparatively large crowds (150 to 160 at an April public hearing, and then 50 to 60 at another one in September). At both hearings local residents spoke fervently for and against the project.
Having discussed the matter at length at several council and committee of the whole meetings throughout the past year, Invermere councillors had little left to say during the February 25 meeting and readily agreed to approve the development permit.
There are still several steps to go, however, before any construction can begin. The CVMA and MNBC need to get a building permit, and they also need to
secure funding for the project.
Invermere planner Rory Hromadnik pointed out the development permit will expire in two years if construction “has not substantially progressed.” He added that timeline can be amended, and said it in fact might need to be amended depending how long it takes the CVMA and MNBC to get enough grants and other funding to start building.
CVMA president Topher Burke wasn’t concerned, telling the Pioneer after the meeting that “I believe the likelihood of (getting) funding within two years is high.” Having the development permit means that “now we can pursue funding more easily . . . the project is that much more appealing to potential funders with this permit in place.”
In January Burke had explained that the CVMA and MNBC had applied for funding in the past but had been unsuccessful primarily because permits had yet to be approved and consequently the project was not considered “shovel-ready.”
Although there are still more steps to come, Burke said he was “very excited . . . we’ve been working on this for a long time, planning and talking for at least three years now. To be at this stage now, to have the development permit, I’m happy.”
Burke’s palpable enthusiasm was shared by CVMA’s Pheobe Goulet, who told the Pioneer that many in the local Metis community “are really just excited.”
The CVMA and MNBC modified their plan after the first public hearing in April 2024, changing to a three-storey building (down from a four storey building) with 41 housing units (up from 36 units) and eliminating an initially planned CVMA cultural centre.
The development permit is meant to help council keep control of the style of the project and also means the new high-density zoning on the property will not necessarily remain in place if the affordable housing is not built and the land instead is sold.
The Rocky Mountain Trench Ecosystem Restoration Program and partner agencies and organizations would like to inform the public that the activities planned for Grassland Ecosystem Restoration are available for public viewing at the following website:
https://www.trench-er.com and select Current Plan Link.
The 2025-2026 Annual Plan document identifies the project leads and their contact information should the public have concerns or questions about individual projects.
for comments or concerns is April 15, 2025
Screenshots (including bottom illustration) are from Invermere council documents showing design elements of the proposed CVMA-MNBC rent-geared-to-income housing project.
Historical Lens PERSPECTIVE
Too many cooks is a good thing
You can envy Canal Flats for a lot of things, but you can’t envy the village for its water treatment dilemma.
The provincial government has mandated that the community upgrade the service via a new multi-million dollar treatment plant.
Okay, here’s $7 million that we found under a rock. Easy for them to say, but on paper it could be a financial nightmare.
It is reported that Canal Flats has never had a boil water advisory in 40 years, which is quite a feather in the village’s cap. So why all the fuss now? Well, under new water assessment standards brought in 14 years ago, the community failed seven of 13 hazard tests, hence the red flag.
It’s convenient for the government to pass the buck to avoid liability, but it’s the residents of the municipality who end up suffering (by paying the price).
Of course, everyone is reminded of what happened in Walkerton, Ontario in 2000 when an E. Coli outbreak sickened many residents and killed several people. An investigation discovered that the water supply was contaminated and there was no proper treatment. In that regard, Canal Flats cannot afford to ignore the potential risk. But at what cost?
While chlorination is often the route chosen to address water quality issues, it’s not favourable to many residents who may want to look at filtration or UV treatment. In any event, the province should be wading in at least ankle deep to help soften the financial blow.
The risk of contamination is always there, regardless of which community you live in. But it doesn’t mean you need a new treatment plant. Of course, if you have millions of dollars in reserve, why not upgrade?
Many small communities in similar circumstances end up borrowing to complete capital projects, but residential taxes go up accordingly; a pill that’s hard to swallow. In the meantime, the village must leave no stone unturned in its quest for grant funding and water treatment alternatives that everyone can live with.
Council may need to hire a consultant to help the village sift through its options, and councillors should be gathering as much ammunition as possible to lug to this year’s Union of BC Municipalities convention. They need to present their conundrum to government ministries to help resolve this.
If they haven’t already, they should also be bending the ear of new MLA Scott McInnis, who might be able to lend an influential hand.
This is one time when too many cooks in the kitchen is a good thing.
Lyonel Doherty, editor
Impacts of STR concerning
The following letter is addressed to Invermere mayor and council
We are writing to object to the granting of a Temporary Use Permit (TUP) to the owner of a property on our block.
We are at the entrance to the cul-de-sac of this residence and as such are witness to the increase in traffic when said residence is being rented out.
We have been property owners for 37 years, both as part time and then permanent for the past 20 years.
We have a closeknit group of neighbours, both
part time and full time, many of whom have been here for the same length of time and we all watch out for one another.
The owner of this residence is only now applying for a TUP, having run it as a short-term rental business for at least 10 years.
In speaking with neighbours who directly border this property, they are fed up with the noise, disrespect, and disregard that some guests show especially on long weekends and weekends through the whole summer. Continued on page 7
LETTERS
Council not listening to residents’ concerns
Continued from page 6
Ironically, the online ad by ‘ Super Host Clifford’ for this property quotes “Enjoy the tranquil Invermere lifestyle located on a quiet cul-de-sac on Fort Point.”
We all built in this neighbourhood because of location, proximity to Kinsmen Beach, and most amenities in town are within a 15 minute walk.
But, most importantly, it is an R-1 residential neighbourhood.
With approximately 177 residences on Fort Point
and approximately 17 identified as STR businesses, that is 10 per cent of our neighbourhood.
We are dismayed, yet again, that the District of Invermere (DOI) and council have granted and are considering granting similar TUPs to applicants in other R-1 areas of town without any apparent consideration of the impact not only on those residents in the area, but to the broader overall Invermere community.
If we continue to erode housing, both affordable and rental for those that want to live, work, and contribute to what should be a thriving community, we do
so to our own detriment.
There appears to be an apparent rush of applicants to get their STR temporary use applications approved by the DOI and council in advance of the well overdue review and update of the Official Community Plan scheduled for sometime in May 2025.
In closing, we are extremely concerned about the approach this council is taking on this issue.
It appears to us that no one on council is listening to the concerns of their own townspeople.
Joan and John Rouse, Invermere
Don’t let fatigue take wheel after change
“Springing ahead” will cost us all an hour of sleep this weekend but the steeper price for drivers could be paid in the days following the time change.
“Losing just one hour of sleep can affect our driving ability and increase the risk of crashing,” explains Trace Acres, program director for Road Safety at Work.
The transition to Daylight Saving Time on March 8 can disrupt sleep patterns, leaving drivers fatigued as their
bodies adjust.
“Even minor fatigue can have major consequences when we’re behind the wheel,” says Acres. “We’re not as alert, we’re slower to react, we don’t judge distance or recognize hazards as well as we usually do, and our decision making is compromised.”
Fatigued drivers pose a risk to themselves, other drivers, and other road users such as pedestrians and cyclists.
The risk isn’t limited to the morning
the Editor,
after the time change. The lost hour of sleep can disrupt sleep cycles for days.
The impact of the time change isn’t limited to fatigue. Because the clocks will have moved ahead, early morning drivers will have reduced visibility as they travel in the dark.
What drivers can do
To help keep themselves safe, Road Safety at Work suggests drivers plan for extra rest in the days leading up to the time change. Aim to go to bed 15 to 20 minutes earlier each night. The gradual adjustment can help your body adapt more smoothly.
“A well-rested driver is a safer driver,” Acres says.
Other tips
• Postpone driving when feeling too fatigued to do it safely.
• Learn to recognize signs of fatigue before it becomes dangerous. Red flags include frequent yawning or blinking, difficulty focusing or staying in your lane, forgetting the last few kilometres driven, and drifting into other lanes or hitting rumble strips. If you experience any of these symptoms, stop driving and rest.
• Drive during peak alertness.
Schedule driving tasks during the hours you feel most alert. Avoid driving late at night or early in the morning when fatigue is more likely to strike.
• Take breaks. On long trips, pull over at a safe spot at least every two hours to stretch, hydrate, or rest. Short breaks can help maintain focus.
• Stay hydrated. Keep water in your vehicle and sip regularly throughout your drive. Fatigue can worsen if you’re dehydrated.
How employers can help
Employers play a key role in addressing driver fatigue among people who drive as part of their employment.
• Encourage employees in the days leading up to the time change to get more rest.
• Check in with employees in the days following the time change to make sure they’re physically, mentally, and emotionally ready to drive safely.
• Avoid assigning demanding driving tasks immediately after the time change.
Encourage employees to speak up if they feel fatigued or unprepared to drive.
Road Safety at Work
Woodcarver Park deals with storm water, gutters
By Steve Hubrecht steve@columbiavalleypioneer.com
Some Radium Village Arts and Culture Society volunteers helping to create Woodcarver Park appeared before Radium council on February 24 asking to change some parts of the project’s development permit.
Society members Valerie Bracken and Marc Barrault noted budget shortfalls for the project and hoped council would consider removing curb and gutter clauses, and change some of the language about containing drainage onsite, among other requests.
Councillors did not readily agree with all of these changes, at least not right away. Some expressed concern about the need to manage stormwater along Madsen Road, where the park will have a retaining wall, and others worried that the costs for such work would fall on the village. (Radium chief administrative officer Adrian Bergles estimated the cost of curb and gutter work could be as much as $100,000.) On the other hand, most councillors emphasized that they wanted to make sure the project proceeds.
“These are big, big asks,” said councillor Christi Ferguson-Huston, one of those voicing concern. She feared if the village takes on the gutter and curb work, that could eventually change into
something more.
“I really feel this is much different than it started out five years ago,” said Ferguson-Huston. She later clarified that she feels the project is still an excellent idea, and that her concerns are simply about the village taking on more than it has the capacity to realistically handle.
In the end Radium council voted to defer the matter to discuss it in more detail.
“The village is overall very much in support of the project,” Radium mayor Mike Gray emphasized to the Pioneer after the meeting. “We are interested in the park, honouring the legacy of Rolf (Heer), on that site. The current vision for the site is a wonderful way to accomplish those goals.” But he also noted the retaining wall is a key part of the park, and that “a retaining wall without proper stormwater management is destined to fail sooner than a retaining wall that is properly protected.”
Gray explained that further discussion about the changes requested by the society will be “a bit of horsetrading on what we as a municipality and the taxpayers can take on, how much should be fundraised, and how it should be managed.”
He remained optimistic the park will be built.
“I think there’s a way and we’ll find
it. We’ll come together and find it,” said Gray.
The Radium Village Arts and Culture Society is building Woodcarver Park in memory of famous former Radium resident and woodcarver Rolf Heer, who passed away in 2020. Heer usually dressed in billowing red wizard robes and a distinctive pointy red hat. His tree-fort like home and woodworker’s shop was known as the ‘Home of a
Thousand Faces’ and was one of the valley’s major tourist attractions. The home sadly burned down in a fire in 2018, an incident that made national headlines, underscoring just how widespread Heer’s reputation was.
Woodcarver Park will be built on the site of the Home of a Thousand Faces. The development permit for the park was issued in fall 2024.
Park
Connect your neighbours with small grant
Submitted
Everyone has something to offer their community, so share your talents and create connections with a small grant up to $500.
Small amounts of money have the potential to bring powerful changes into local communities. That’s the idea behind Neighbourhood Small Grants (NSG), a province-wide program coordinated locally by the Columbia Valley Community Foundation.
Project leaders can access grants of up to $500 to
deliver a range of programs that foster local connections between neighbours and create lasting social impacts within the community. This fund is intended to help bring ideas to life that might otherwise face financial barriers or that are in need of a little inspirational boost.
As seen by the wide variety of applications received in 2024, Thiloma Hofer, executive director at the Community Foundation says, “A small grant of $500 can kickstart people’s imagination and inspire them to start a project.”
From spinning and dyeing wool workshops, to a community garden in Edgewater, and new little libraries in several neighbourhoods across the valley, these locally-led initiatives fostered social connections through shared skills, ideas and experiences. A street barbecue and picnic at the Windermere Museum brought the entire block together, with neighbours expressing immense gratitude for the opportunity to
gather, connect and share a meal. The true spirit of the NSG program is captured nicely by 2024 project leader, Megan Arn: “We [now] all wave a little more, say a few more words, and feel a bit more connected along our little avenue.”
Neighbourhood Small Grants is a grassroots granting approach to get people connecting, creating, and making lasting memories with the focus and goal to create and bring a stronger sense of belonging in a community. No experience is necessary, and applications are quick and simple. An array of projects will be considered, and while this grant is not open to businesses or non-profits, we encourage everyone and anyone to apply with their big ‘little’ idea.
For more information and how to apply, visit www.valleyfoundation.ca or email grants@valleyfoundation.ca
The application opens March 1 and closes April 13.
You can do a lot of things with a neighbourhood small grant, such as establish a little blue library in your community.
The Woodcarver
in Radium will include a timberframe treehouse in the shape of the wizard hat worn by former village resident Rolf Heer. Screenshot is from Radium council documents.
PHOTO SUBMITTED
OUT OF OFFICE…
International Women’s Day
It’s International Women’s Day on March 8th, and this year is an interesting one; it has been 50 years since the United Nations has designated International Women’s Day as an international celebration (although it has recently been deleted from calendars)! The official theme this year is #AccelerateAction and on the
IWD website, you can find the mission statement for 2025: “focusing on the need to Accelerate Action emphasizes the importance of taking swift and decisive steps to achieve gender equality. It calls for increased momentum and urgency in addressing the systemic barriers and biases that women face, both in personal and professional spheres.”
The Columbia Valley Chamber of Commerce has celebrated International Women’s Day for the last few years by hosting an evening networking event and this year is no different – the venue this year is Steamboat Lounge and Forage in Radium Hot Springs. Celebrate International Women’s Day by connecting with like-minded women in a welcoming and uplifting space! Join us for a fun & casual networking evening with great company, delicious food and meaningful connections. Buy your tickets at cvchamber.ca - $40 includes appetizers, a drink, and fun which won’t stop when the event does – Steamboat
will remain open until 10pm for food and drinks!
Community Futures, WeBC and Columbia Valley Economic Development are also working together to put on a breakfast event celebrating International Women’s Day on Friday March 21st from 8:30am10:30am. She Means Business: Celebrate & Connect will be at Copper Point Resort in the Amber Room – this event is free, but please register online at: loom.ly/ gHw81rA (it’s on Eventbrite)!
We look forward to celebrating International Women’s Day with the powerful and thriving community of women business-owners, entrepreneurs, and professionals in the Columbia Valley. According to the World Economic Forum, “at the current rate of progress, it will take until 2158, which is roughly five generations from now, to reach full gender parity”. We can get there faster and better by simply recognizing and advocating for the equality of women throughout the world; #AccelerateAction!
-Deanna Berrington
Thursday, March 6
• 1:00pm-5:00pm: Columbia Valley Job Fair & Volunteer Expo Columbia Valley Centre. Meet Columbia Valley Employers and non-profits to explore career and volunteer opportunities. Don't forget to bring your resume! Entry is FREE!
• 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. Needles & Hooks. Invermere Public Library. Join us on the 1st & 3rd Thursdays of each month for Needles & Hooks. Bring your current yarn project and meet with other makers! 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, pooltable, crafts at The Edge.
• 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: Trivia Night Windermere Whitehouse Pub. Host Mandi Cox $3/ person, teams of more than 6 will be split into two groups. Ages 19+ Friday, March 7
• 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!
• 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 8
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 9
2:00pm: Cards, Cribbage and Darts Come to the Legion and have some fun! Members and guests welcome.
• 7:00pm: 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 10
6:00pm-8:00pm: Safe Space Event with CV Pride: Free Pottery Workshop. Pottery Playground. Drop in to make a trinket, dish or coaster and enjoy drinks & snacks in a safe space! All ages welcome! Limited Space, please RSVP: connect@columbiavalleypride.org
• 10:00am-11:00am: Senior's Yoga Columbia Valley Centre, Invermere. $2 drop in, open to all seniors.
• 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: Poker (Chip up for Charity). The Station Pub $50 buy-in. Every Monday.
Tuesday, March 11
• 2:00pm-4:00pm: Meet Libby! Invermere Public Library. Get more from your library card! Drop in to learn how to access free eBooks and audiobooks on Libby! We can show you: how to download the Libby app and sign up with your library card, how to search for books to read or listen to, and how to place holds and borrow items. Please bring the charged device you want to read on (phone, tablet, Kobo eReader, laptop).
• 5:30pm-7:30pm: Chamber Connections at Screamers! Monthly Networking Event by the Columbia Valley Chamber of Commerce. Free to attend, drop-in casual event with at least two board members in attendance. Join us at Screamers in Radium Hot Springs. Let’s talk business - see you there!
• 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 – Aboriginal Head Start on Reserve. Columbia Lake Recreation centre. New inter-generational Playgroup! Free for all ᕈakisq'nuknik members and by donation for non-members. 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. e-mail: ashely.killin@akisqnuk.org for more information
• 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 12
5:30pm-7:30pm: International Women’s Day Networking at Steamboat Lounge. Steamboat Lounge and Forage. Join us for a fun and casual networking evening filled with great conversations, delicious food, and amazing company! Whether you're a business owner, professional, or simply looking to connect with like-minded women, this is the perfect opportunity to build new relationships and celebrate women in our community. Come ready to share stories, make connections, and celebrate International Women’s Day in a welcoming and uplifting space. We can't wait to see you there! The fun doesn't have to end at 7:30, Steamboat Lounge will be open until 10:00pm for food and drink.
• 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.
AI entrepreneur pitches idea to Radium
By Steve Hubrecht steve@columbiavalleypioneer.com
A local entrepreneur recently pitched Radium Hot Springs council on the idea of using artificial intelligence (AI) to handle queries from village residents.
The pitch came from Radium resident Richard Golany and Bighorn Global Agency, a digital marketing company, during last week’s Radium council meeting.
Golany asked councillors to consider buying an AI program (or ‘bot’) to help the village with tasks such as running its website and handling resident inquires. He said it could “revolutionize” the village’s customer service,
would cost a fraction of employing a human representative, and could answer most routine everyday questions that local residents might pose village staff.
“How many random questions do you get each day?” asked Golany, pointing out having a bot answer those would free up staff for more complex and creative tasks.
He explained that he has already created a prototype human-like AI bot for the village’s website, giving it the name ‘Jane’.
Golany started up Jane and asked two questions, one on how to obtain information on short-term rentals (STRs), and then another on what to do if you see an injured animal.
Unfortunately Jane, although
speaking in a human-like voice, did not answer either question during the demonstration, replying “I totally understand, what can I help you with?”
This provoked a few chuckles from some audience members at the meeting. Golany wryly noted “that wasn’t very good,” but quickly added that any glitches could easily be fixed.
Radium mayor Mike Gray asked if any other B.C. communities were using the program.
Golany replied none so far, noting the program is still very new, just three months old. “A lot of people are scared of it,” he added. He again extolled the benefits of using AI, comparing the difference between a human representative and a AI bot to the difference be-
tween an axe and a chainsaw.
“Humans can’t remember everything,” said Golany, adding AI can “save everybody time.”
Speaking to the Pioneer after the meeting, Gray explained that although Radium councillors didn’t jump at the chance to buy the AI bot, that doesn’t mean it won’t ever be a reality at the village office.
“As a mayor and council, we’re interested in hearing from any members of our community,” said Gray.
When it comes to AI answering the phone lines at the village office “we’ll see the way the trends go. If it’s used with great success in other communities, I’m open to any new ideas.”
MLA McInnis questions health minister
Submitted
On February 24, Scott McInnis, MLA for Columbia River-Revelstoke rose during question period in the Legislature and asked Minister of Health Josie Osborne why health care workers in Kimberley and Cranbrook do not receive the Provincial Rural Retention Incentive (PRRI).
The PRRI provides up to $8000/year
in extra pay for health care professionals living and working in rural communities.
“We are a seven-hour drive from Kelowna, and a daunting 12-hour trip from Vancouver.” McInnis said. “Why are our health care workers being denied this important financial incentive?”
McInnis has been advocating for local employees to receive this additional
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wage for nearly a year. “I’ve been championing vigorously for this since I became a candidate. It’s wrong that those working here don’t receive the PRRI.”
McInnis presented a petition with over 500 signatures on behalf of the East Kootenay B.C. Nurses Union and local citizens supporting the PRRI.
The minister’s response provided no timeline for additional recipients of the PRRI, and did not commit that local
health care workers would receive it.
“This is extremely frustrating. While the government continues to evaluate the PRRI, the East Kootenay continues to struggle to retain important health care professionals.”
McInnis will continue to press the minister on this issue. “Until the PRRI is granted to our local health care professionals, I will be a thorn in the side of Minister Osborne.”
Accommodation meaning clarified
By Steve Hubrecht steve@columbivalleypioneer.com
The Village of Radium Hot Springs held a public hearing earlier last month on amendments that would clarify definitions of various types of accommodation within the village’s zoning bylaw.
Under the proposed new definitions a hotel is a building (or group of buildings) primarily used for tourist accommodation; a motel is similar but each building (or group of buildings) has a separate exterior entrance with access to on-site parking; and short-term rental (STR) means commercial use of a dwelling unit for less than 30 consecutive days and which does not fall under normal tourist accommodation zoning.
The new definition of ‘tourist accommodation’ will mean temporary accommodation to the travelling public for periods of less than one month or 30 consecutive days and — critically — ‘tourist accommodation’ does not
include a residential tenancy subject to the B.C.’s Residential Tenancy Act. The public hearing drew several residents.
Local realtor Cris Leonard asked for clarification on C1 zoned accessory dwelling units (the C1 zone is ‘highway commercial’ and includes many of the hotels and motels in Radium along Highway 93 heading to Kootenay National Park). He also asked about the effect of long-term rentals in motels (something not allowed under the current zoning bylaw, and something that the new definitions would even more clearly preclude), and asked — if the new definitions are adopted as bylaw — how the village would enforce them. Radium chief administrative officer Adrian Bergles replied that accessory dwelling units would be limited to two in the C1 zone under the amendments. He also explained that enforcement will be ongoing if the bylaw amendment is adopted.
Bring big hats, bake scones for book launch
Columbia Valley Pioneer staff
Local author Elinor Florence will soon officially launch her new novel Finding Flora.
The event will be on Tuesday, April 1 at Pynelogs Cultural Centre, and that’s no joke!
“It’s time to dig out your hats and start baking,” Florence said, “because there will be two contests at the event — one for the biggest, fanciest hat, and the other for the best plate of scones.”
Finding Flora takes place in 1905 when big hats were all the rage. Flora is a Scottish newcomer who leaps from a moving train to escape her abusive husband and finds herself alone on the Alberta prairie. Desperate to disappear, she claims a homestead and joins forces with several neighbouring women to battle a hostile government.
See the author’s website at www.elinorflorence.com for a full synopsis.
“In those days women loaded down their hats with flowers and feathers,” Florence said. “I’m going to wear my pioneer outfit, and I urge everyone to dress in turn-of-the-century clothing. It’s easy to find examples on the internet.”
Men and boys are encouraged to wear bowlers, boaters, or flat caps — almost anything except ball caps — and they may enter the fancy hat contest if they wish
“It’s April Fool’s Day, so anything goes,” Florence said.
Since homesteaders relied on staples such as tea biscuits or scones, Florence wants everyone to whip up their best batch and bring them to Pynelogs
for judging. Afterward the scones will be shared with the crowd. “I’ll provide the butter and Saskatoon jam,” she said.
Tea and coffee will be provided, along with a cash bar and door prize. Children are welcome.
Doors open at 6:30 p.m. and the author will give a short presentation at 7 p.m. sharp, followed by contest judging and book signing. You may preorder your copy at Four Points Books in Invermere, or purchase a copy at the event. If you can’t make it, you may order a copy from your library or purchase a copy at Four Points any time.
“I always urge everyone to shop local and buy Canadian,” Florence said.
This event will be the national launch for Finding Flora, and the author leaves the next morning for book events in Calgary, Red Deer, Edmonton, Canmore and Cranbrook. A full schedule can be found on her website.
Florence’s family heritage includes homesteaders, fur traders, and Indigenous women, who inspired her love of history. A member of the Columbia Valley Métis Association, she grew up on a Saskatchewan farm and worked for newspapers in all four Western provinces before settling in Invermere with her young family 30 years ago. She wrote for Reader’s Digest for eight years before purchasing The Columbia Valley Pioneer newspaper, then sold the paper in 2010 to write historical fiction.
Her first two novels, Bird’s Eye View and Wildwood, are out of print but can still be found at Four Points Books and Lambert-Kipp Pharmacy.
For more information visit elinor@ elinorflorence.com.
Elinor Florence works on decorating a few hats for family and friends to wear to her book launch at Pynelogs Cultural Centre on Tuesday, April 1. PHOTOS SUBMITTED
Housing society shares valley data, trends
Columbia Valley Pioneer staff
Recent data from the Columbia Valley Housing Society (CVHS) shows that 651 new housing units are required to meet people’s needs in the next five years.
That was the message delivered to the Regional District of East Kootenay (RDEK) in a recent report.
The CVHS shared its priorities and actions with the board in its objective to enable workforce residents to attain secure housing in the valley over the next 36 months. As such, the CVHS is asking the RDEK for a financial contribution of $40,000 in 2025, $30,000 in 2026 and $20,000 in 2027 (collectively from five Columbia Valley areas).
The housing society is also working towards securing long-term funding from the private sector and establishing a tenancy program.
Results from housing needs reports indicate that the Columbia Valley may need to build 651 units by 2026. The reports suggest that 405 of those units may be owned, while 200 may be rented out.
It was reported that a total of 153 dwellings were created as of November 2024.
In August 2023, Radium Hot Springs purchased a three-unit, long-term rental housing project, which is managed by the CVHS. It is reportedly the first dedicated long-term rental property in the village.
A housing action plan is to be developed with the District of Invermere (DOI) and the CVHS. The idea is to adopt small-scale, multi-unit housing (SSMUH) zoning practices to address the concern that “families in Invermere cannot afford to purchase single-detached homes.”
It is believed that SSMUH zoning can make single-detached housing more affordable for buyers by providing mortgage helpers, while also developing more rental housing in the community. The DOI and CVHS have completed the feasibility study and business plan for a housing development at 214, 10th Avenue.
The CVHS suggests that local governments can support non-profit housing with the following actions:
• Donating land to non-market housing that is supported by senior funders (such as BC Housing and CMHC).
• Offering tax exemptions
• Reducing or waiving securities for on-site landscaping and paving
The CVHS says the housing challenges that Invermere faces are shared by neighbouring communities.
“It is important that the District of Invermere works in partnership with housing operators, local governments and First Nations in the region and considers opportunities to address housing issues through a regional lens,” asserts the CVHS.
It was noted that the DOI and CVHS are aiming to share a two-scenario build for an eight and 10-unit affordable and market rental development. They “aim to apply the business plan, feasibility study and proforma to 12th Avenue once funding is secured.”
The CVHS says Radium Hot Springs and the DOI are willing to share any bylaws or building models that could support and promote the supply and demand need for Electoral Area F, G and the Village of Canal Flats.
It was reported that Edgewater has formed a
community housing hub and that a comprehensive pre-development planning document has been completed for a 12-unit build with commercial space and potential child care centre.
In addition, AFN Enterprises have put forward its plans for a 120-unit development in Windermere. The CVHS provided a letter of support as it “increases the availability of rental and attainable housing stock in the Windermere area and addresses the critical housing needs as identified by the RDEK Housing Needs Assessment.”
The Village of Canal Flats supports a new non-profit society dedicated to addressing the urgent need for attainable housing and child care services in its community. The purpose of the society is to “provide affordable and safe housing options for low-income individuals and families, as well as accessible and high-quality child care services that support the development of children in our community.”
The CVHS is planning to host a housing symposium in September of 2025.
015-020-568 6 STR 144-24 #142 – 1492 Akiskinook Road (Windermere) 006-453-741 8 STR 150-24 4806 Andreen Road (Windermere) 024-832-871 8
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 RDEK office at 19 - 24 Ave S. Cranbrook, BC or by email to planningdept@rdek.bc.ca prior to 4:30 pm on March 12, 2025. All submissions should include your name and address. Please be advised that any written submissions will become part of public record. The permit is available for viewing by email request, on the RDEK website (www.rdek.bc.ca/meetings_events/publichearings) or at the RDEK Offices between the hours of 8:30 am and 4:30 pm, Monday to Friday, excluding statutory holidays. To search for properties online, visit: www.rdek.bc.ca/departments/mapping. For more information contact planning department staff at planningdept@rdek.bc.ca or 250-489-2791. All written submissions are public information pursuant to the Freedom of Information and Protection of Privacy Act. All submissions will form
Questions about the disclosure of your personal information may be referred to the Corporate Officer at 250-489-2791 or 1-888-478-7335.
BEYOND THE BLUE LINE
Rockies start playoffs with solid mindset
By Stephanie Stevens
Hard work, a strong team mindset and a whole lotta heart paid off in spades for the Columbia Valley Rockies last weekend.
The team’s first round in the Kootenay International Junior Hockey League (KIJHL) playoff series had the Rockies, sitting third in the Eddie Mountain Division, winning two games against second place Fernie Ghostriders.
“We are obviously really happy going into their rink and coming out with two wins early in the series,” said head coach Tayler Sincennes. “Our specialty teams were excellent in both games. Early in game one we killed off two five on threes and that really grabbed us some momentum in that game. Our powerplay went 3/4 and helped win us the game.”
Scoring in the Friday, Feb. 28 game was Lukas Masters (assist by Noah Asmundson) in the first, and in the second period Ethan Cerone (unassisted), Peter Godley (Wyatt Wurtz) and Carter Velker (Asmundson) all found their mark. Velker (Jack Thorne) stepped up again in the third period to end the game 5-3.
Goalie Hunter Arntsen stopped 41 of 44 shots on goal.
The following night included what associate coach Tucker Braund called “one of the wildest third periods” he has ever seen.
“With the five-minute major penalty to Jonah (Fornier) they could have put us away on the powerplay and they did get one, but our penalty kill (pk) has been great and we scored a short-handed goal to tie it. Then us scoring with one second left was just wild.”
“Saturday night we played better; we generated way more chances and defended excellently,” said Sincennes. “Again our pk did a great job killing off a five-minute major in the third period and our power-
play went 2/3. We still have a lot of work to do to win this series, but we have set ourselves up really well coming back to play at the Eddie in games three and four.”
The score remained 1-0 for the ‘Riders into the third period, but Ashton Sledz (Kobe Mason and Wurtz) found the net early in, followed by Teo Fath (Wurtz). The game looked to head into overtime but with one second left on the clock, Velker put one more past the Fernie goalie unassisted to win the game 3-2.
“Going into this playoff series, we knew it was going to be a grind,” said Velker. “The atmosphere is definitely different in the post season: there’s a lot more intensity and I feel like as a group we’ve been really good at embracing it. Winning both away games this weekend was huge for us. Playing on the road in an environment like Fernie in the playoffs is never easy, but we knew if we stuck to our game, we could take control of the series early. These wins are important, but we know we still have a job to do.”
On the Saturday night winning goal, Velker said it was an incredible feeling.
“The energy from the team was unreal,” he said. “Everyone was pushing until the final whistle, and you could just feel the belief we had throughout that game. To score a goal like that in a high-pressure moment felt amazing … it’s a goal you imagine as a young kid scoring at the buzzer. As a team we have a lot of momentum right now and we are looking to carry that into these next games.”
At press time the Rockies were heading into games three and four at home in Eddie Mountain Memorial Arena, and if necessary will be in Fernie on Friday, March 7, home again March 8, and should the series go right to seven games they will play the final in Fernie on Monday, March 10.
Edgewater Recreation Society is requesting quotes for the removal of the existing infield and installation of a new infield, including material, at Wittman Field in Edgewater.
Contractors should have experience in designing and installing sports fields and should be familiar with BC Minor Baseball playing field dimensions and material.
Proposals should include technical and pricing details, project schedule, and references.
Edgewater Recreation Society is currently in the grant application process to fund this project, therefore contractors should understand that rewarding of any contract is dependent on successful grant application.
To view the site, please call 204-740-0876
Please submit your proposal by Friday, April 4 to: Edgewater Recreation Society PO Box 114, Edgewater, BC V0A 1E0
Or: edgerecsociety@gmail.com
The Rockies got off to a great start last weekend by winning two games against the Fernie Ghostriders.
PHOTO STEPHANIE STEVENS
Carter Velker of the Rockies scored his share of goals last weekend.
PHOTO STEPHANIE STEVENS
H ERE TO S ERVE Y OU
Alice on ice in ‘Wonderland’ skate show
By Steve Hubrecht steve@columbiavalleypioneer.com
‘Alice in Wonderland’ is a classic book, and the movies are loved by children and adults too. How could they not be, with a boisterous cast of characters including the nutty, tea party-hosting Mad Hatter, the fearsome Queen of Hearts, the kooky March Hare, the mysterious and always grinning Cheshire Cat, and of course dear Alice herself?
These colourful characters will come to life on ice in Invermere soon during the Columbia Valley Skating Club’s annual ice show. This year the show is called ‘Wonderland’ and the
theme is Alice’s mad cap exploits from the famous story.
“We wanted to go with a proper story that has a plot line this year as opposed to something more thematic, such as ‘rock and roll’ or ‘seasons’,” club coach Hailey Beddie told the Pioneer “Our kids are really excited to perform in front of family and friends in costumes.”
Those costumes are coming along well, with parents chipping in to help make them, explained Beddie.
The show will involve 87 skaters from age 2 to 18 from the club’s competitive figure skating programs as well as its CanSkate and pre-CanSkate programs.
A trio of graduating club skaters will star as the three leading characters — Ocea Dubray as Alice, Courteny Krebs as the Mad Hatter, and Rebecca Van Urk as the Queen of Hearts.
The club recently performed a version of the ‘Wonderland’ show in Creston during the Kootenay Region Championships over the B.C. Family Day long weekend.
“It went very well,” said Beddie.
The club’s annual ice show is its biggest fundraiser of the year, typically bringing in $1,000. The club uses the money to offset costs and make its skating programs more affordable for local families and children.
“Our club has been slowly growing
over the years. It’s amazing to have so many kids now,” said Beddie.
‘Wonderland’ unfolds on Saturday, March 15 at Eddie Mountain Memorial Arena from 2 to 4 p.m.
Tickets are $10 for adults and teens, or $5 for those age 12 and under. They are available at the door, or in advance by purchasing in person from families involved in the skate programs or by emailing cvskaters@gmail.com. The club is also running an online 50/50 draw, and the winner will be announced at the show.
The club will have a spring CanSkate program in April for kids who missed programs earlier in the year.
The Columbia Valley Skating Club is preparing for its annual ice show called ‘Wonderland’ on Saturday March 15.
PHOTO SUBMITTED
PIONEER CLASSIFIEDS
MAY, Kevin John
August 22, 1929 – February 25, 2025
Kevin May, passed away on Tuesday, February 25, 2025, at the age of 95 years, in Calgary, AB, where he served for 33 years with the Calgary Police Service. Born in London, England, he immigrated to Canada in 1949. Kevin met and married Marjorie Shilling in October 1954. He was affable and had cherished friendships from many walks of life. He was also fiercely competitive, stubborn, and steadfast; qualities that defined his character and upheld his resilience throughout life’s challenges. Kevin was an avid gardener and generous with his tomatoes and cucumbers, which were a hot commodity. He also loved to golf, to count every stroke, and amassed a total of five holes-in-one.
Kevin is survived by his son Kevin (wife Michelle) and his two grandchildren Geoff (wife Lindsey and children Beckett and Kaiden) and Kelli (husband Rory and children Ellise, Lewis, and Etta). He is predeceased by his wife, Marjorie and his daughter, Leslie.
He is loved beyond measure and will be deeply missed.
As per Kevin’s wishes, a private family service will be held. Condolences, memories, and photos may be shared and viewed with Kevin’s family at www.MHFH.com
In living memory of Kevin John May, a tree will be planted in the Ann & Sandy Cross Conservation Area by McInnis & Holloway Funeral Homes.
Cole, Martin Douglas May 7, 1958 - February 22, 2025
Peacefully, at Bluewater Health Palliative Care on Saturday, February 22, 2025, Martin Douglas Cole, 66 passed away after a short and courageous fight with cancer. He will be forever missed by his sister, Lyndee Lu Cole, her husband Martin Hayes and her children Jeremy and Jesse, his wife Julianne and their son Johnny. He will also be forever missed by his best friend and first mate Amber Elliott.
Predeceased by his mother Shirley Irene (Hastings) Cole on Tuesday, September 7, 1999 and his father William Douglas (Doug) Cole on Tuesday, September 14, 1999.
Martin was born in Sarnia, Ontario on May 7, 1958 where he worked in Chemical Valley before moving to Invermere, British Columbia. For many years he enjoyed working and skiing at Panorama Ski Resort and sailing on Lake Windemere. He was well known in the skiing community for his ski hill grooming skills using the Snowcats Thelma and Louise. Upon returning and settling in Point Edward he continued his passion for sailing at the Sarnia Yacht Club. With his love of all boats, Martin became a Navtech Master Marine Surveyor. Martin always enjoyed sharing his knowledge and skills in boat restoration and racing. He was also well known for his exceptional painting skills.
Lyndee Lu and Amber would like to thank Dr. David Kim, Dr. Julie Lebert, the nursing staff of the Palliative Care Unit and a special thank you to Shari.
Marty had a gigantic heart and always willing to give a helping hand.
Cremation has taken place and Martin’s ashes will be interred in a private family graveside service at Lakeview Cemetery. A Celebration of Marty’s Life will be held at the Sarnia Yacht Club which will be announced at a later date. In lieu of flowers, sympathy may be expressed through memorial donations to the Sarnia Humane Society https://sarniahumanesociety.com/ and the Junior Sailor’s Program at the Sarnia Yacht Club https://sarniayachtclub.ca/ . Arrangements have been entrusted to the D.J. Robb Funeral Home & Cremation Centre Ltd. (102 Victoria Street, North, Sarnia, Ontario N7T 5W9). Memories, messages of condolence or photographs may be shared through www.djrobb.on.ca
& Area
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
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 Gary’s Painting for doing a great job painting our office. It looks great; so bright and cheery now.
Kicking Horse Cafe- Cheers! Real live flowers on the tables. Lovely- spring IS springing.
Cheers to my cousin Mark Chadney for your generosity. You have a huge heart and you are always willing to help others- such a good quality.
Cheers to Colin McA for coming to my rescue. You saved the day!
Cheers to Jaye at Selkirk Cellular for the great customer service and for going above and beyond for me. Even staying past closing time. I really appreciate it.
Mountains of cheers to the volunteers and community members who turned out for the artist’s reception at Pynelogs this weekend. What a beautiful afternoon! Marie, CVArts has a diamond in the gallery, and Anne your community spirit is a gift to the valley - the pleasure was entirely mine!
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
DTSS band stoked for festival
By Steve Hubrecht steve@columbiavalleypioneer.com
If you stand in the halls at David Thompson Secondary School (DTSS) on a Thursday afternoon, a half hour or so after the final bell of the day has rung, and almost all of the students have left, you can hear an unmistakably foot-tapping rhythm. Step from the hall into the room where the DTSS ‘Soul Machine’ jazz band is practising and now you can really hear it.
One younger-looking student’s fingers are bouncing on the piano keys. Music teacher Bryant Olender is tickling the ivories too and stomping his shoes to help keep time. An older student with a deep purple guitar rips out an extended improvised solo that’s both bold and understated at the same time, perfectly suited to the song. Trumpets, trombones and other brass horns add punch, and someone holds up a ukulele.
A few visitors sitting and standing nearby can’t seem to keep still, consciously or subconsciously tapping their fingers and toes or bobbing their heads. It’s impossible not to move, unless perhaps you’re hard of hearing. Or hard of heart.
Sounds like these haven’t echoed around DTSS for a long time.
Soul Machine started up about a year and a half ago, and it’s the first time in years DTSS has a genuine band program.
HELP WANTED
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RV SITES
RV Site - Seasonal lease April 15 to September 15 $7600
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
MOVING SALE
Selling sports equipment, couches, dining table with 8 chairs, beds, pots and pans, small appliances, lamps, tables, patio furniture, auto/ boat shelter, decorative items, bed linens, towels, tools, ladders, dressers and night tables, 16’ Pelican canoe and dozens and dozens of golf balls!
Terms: Cash or credit. No Amex.
“It’s nice to have music back,” Olender told the Pioneer. “The kids love being in a jazz band.”
Soul Machine has 19 students in total, including four vocalists. Some of their favourite songs to play include ‘Take the A Train’ and ‘Can’t Take My Eyes Off You’.
The band is preparing for their first major performance outside of the Columbia Valley at the B.C. Interior Jazz Festival in Kelowna from Friday, April 11 to Sunday, April 13, and they are fundraising to make the trip happen.
Last week the local Valley Voices Choir presented Soul Machine with a $1,000 cheque. The band is hoping to raise an additional $4,000 to cover the cost of playing at the jazz fest.
“We want to promote all forms of music in the community,” said choir member Gavin Jacob, speaking on why the choir donated. “We want to make sure the band can go to Kelowna. I’ve heard nothing but good things about the band from everyone who’s heard them. And of course we’re delighted to have a band back at the high school again.”
The Soul Machine will hold a fundraising concert at the DTSS theatre on Thursday, March 13 at 7 p.m.
Anyone wanting to donate to help get the DTSS Soul Machine to Kelowna can write a cheque to ‘DTSS’ with “band fund” in the memo, or if they want a tax receipt they can write it to ‘School District 6 Rocky Mountain’ with “DTSS music fund” or “DTSS band fund” in the memo. You can also contact the school district for other ways to make donations.
Anyone who wants to help out in
The David Thompson Secondary School (DTSS) ‘Soul Machine’ jazz band is fundraising in anticipation for the B.C. Interior Jazz Fest in Kelowna in April.
that regard is most welcome.
PHOTO STEVE HUBRECHT
Past times and pastimes
Curator’s Corner
By J.D. Jeffery Museum Curator
Throughout the year causes are highlighted to bring people’s attention to things like Cancer Awareness Month.
Throughout the year there are things that are recognized that are important to people in the community like International Pizza Day. Then there are things that are not celebrated but acknowledged for what they represent, such as International Women’s Day or International Week of the Deaf.
The museum world also has a couple of weeks that highlight important things that are significant and dear to our hearts. Recently, February 17 to 23 was Heritage Week to highlight what museums are passionate about. The theme was “Pastimes of Past Times.”
As the board discussed the theme and how it related to themselves, it became apparent that past times for many people are still being done today with exceptions. We still curl on the lake, but our equipment is not just a corn broom found behind the back
door or golfing at Fort Point with a set of wooden clubs.
Past times in our everyday life even have past times. Remember the rotary phones originally attached to the wall where you had to stand to talk to your friends for hours? Even further back, hanging around the radio to hear the latest stories of “The Shadow” because there was no TV.
Take time to ‘reminisce’ your past times and always remember we are not old; some of us just have more experience and more past times to share. Come to the museum on Saturdays from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. and see more photos and artifacts in our collection so you can relive some of your ‘past times’.
Learn more about what’s happening at the museum by visiting www. windermerevalleymuseum.ca.
Columbia Valley Churches
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
MUSEUM ARCHIVES
Playing hockey was a pastime in the winter months when a challenge could lead to a game wherever ice could be found. This photograph, dated back to 1913, shows a hockey game in progress in front of the Invermere Inn. Mother Nature had left a sheet of ice on the road thick enough that they could skate and play hockey.
RDEK postpones readings
The following are Regional District of East Kootenay board highlights for February
• The board postponed first and second reading of two bylaws to facilitate the development of a multi-family apartment building in the Windermere south area.
The board has requested additional information regarding road improvements and sewer servicing.
• The RDEK has approved funding from the Community Works Fund for a number of projects including $13,000 for the Fairmont Fire Hall diesel exhaust system, and $385,000 for a Panorama fire engine, a contract which has been awarded to HUB Fire Engines.
• Discretionary grants-in-aid have been given to the following: Living Lakes Canada Society ($2,500 from Area F and G for hydrological modelling of Wilmer/Boulder Creek watersheds), and Royal Canadian Legion Branch 199 - Edgewater ($1,500 from Area G for the annual Easter egg hunt).
• The RDEK will submit an application to the FortisBC Climate Action Partner Program to fund a position focused on greenhouse gas emission reduction.
The goal is to assist eligible participants with hiring a person to act as a project manager for solutions related to sustainability and energy plans. This supports the RDEK’s strategic priorities related to climate change and environmental stewardship.
• Recently announced funding will be used to establish a regional Indigenous liaison position based out of the RDEK.
The Indigenous Engagement Requirements Funding Program provides money to assist First Nations and local authorities to undertake engagement activities. The primary objectives are to strengthen relationships, foster collaboration, support reconciliation and ensure Indigenous cultural safety is embedded in emergency management practices.
• The RDEK’s draft 2025-2029 financial plan includes just under $12 million in capital projects for 2025, an operating budget for shared services of $29.5 million, and proposes an increase of $22 on the average residential property valued at $596,000.
Copies of the draft plan and comment form are available at engage.rdek.bc.ca/budget or at the RDEK office. The comment period ends at noon on March 10. The plan is expected to be adopted on March 14.
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
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