Columbia Valley Pioneer - June 20, 2024

Bruno’s Plumbing Service

Mike Sylvestre

250.342.5105 brunosplumbing@shaw.ca

Serving The Columbia Valley

Serving the Columbia Valley since 1995

• ICBC Glass Express

• Auto Glass Replacement & Chip Repair

• Shower Doors

• Sealed Units

• Deck and Hand Railings

Serving Residential and Commercial Clients

#3, 109 Industrial #2, Invermere B.C. 250-342-3659 Fax 250-342-3620 info@invermereglass.com www.invermereglass.com

COMING EVENTS

Continue the celebration of National Indigenous Peoples Day with an Indigenous Story Time on Saturday, June 22nd @ 2pm with guests Tisha and Robyn Tardif. All welcome!

invermere.bc.libraries.coop

Wildlife in the Columbia Valley is just waiting to be discovered (and captured) by the photographer’s lens on a daily basis. PHOTOS SYD DANIS

VALLEY NEWS

Invermere dirt biker grabs silver at Erzberg

By Steve Hubrecht  steve@colmbiavalleypioneer.com

Invermere dirt biker Trystan Hart recently earned a silver during the Red Bull Erzberg Rodeo Hard Enduro in Austria, widely considered the toughest off-road dirt bike event on the planet.

Over the past several years Hart has risen to the top of the professional dirt biking world. He’s won the U.S. Hard Enduro Championship series for three straight years (he is currently gunning for a fourth consecutive year) and he earned bronze at the Erzberg Rodeo Hard Enduro in both 2022 and 2023.

This year he was aiming to win the Erzberg Rodeo, and just might have done so had he not been knocked off his bike right at the start of the race.

Of the 2,000 dirt bikers who enter the massive event, only 500 actually qualify to get to the start line. The riders set off in waves of 50. Hart, as one of the best in the world, was in the first wave, but the start was chaotic as everyone peeled off the line several seconds early.

“I was pretty happy since that’s the best I’ve ever ridden there, but at the same time I was angry that the guy behind me didn’t get on his brakes at the start.”

“Someone caught my front wheel and someone else caught my back wheel. It knocked me to the ground. It was crazy; other riders were riding over my bike or riding over me,” Hart told the Pioneer. “I got back up and on the bike as fast as I could, but by that point I was as dead last as you can be. I had to work my way back up, passing other riders one by one. It was a battle.”

That he was still able to finish second is testament to Hart’s considerable skill, and he did concede that aside from the terrible start, and one or two slight errors on a hill, he made a near-perfect ride.

“I was pretty happy since that’s the best I’ve ever ridden there, but at the same time I was angry that the guy behind me didn’t get on his brakes when he should have at the start, and that it (the ability to win the race) was in some ways taken out of my control,” said Hart.

The Erzberg Rodeo is a massive event in Europe. The race is held at the largest iron mine on the continent, which normally operates 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

The only time the mine shuts down is for the five days surrounding the Erzberg Rodeo. There are 2,000 entrants, 500 of them make it to the start line, and most years only about 10 riders actually

manage to complete the whole course. The event attracts more than 30,000 spectators and millions of viewers tune in through television or online streaming.

Hart was also not helped by a very tight schedule this year. Normally he gets to Erzberg a few days early, and has a chance to pre-ride some sections of the course. This year he did a doubleheader race in Pennsylvania immediately before flying to Austria, leaving him jet lagged and with no chance to pre-ride the course.

Still, Hart likes having his schedule going at full throttle. The Pioneer was lucky to catch him last week for a chat, while he was briefly home in the Columbia Valley between the Erzberg Rodeo and his next set of races in the U.S. — he normally only spends about 40 days a year at home in the valley, mostly in December, between a first racing season that runs from January through August and a second that runs from September through November.

“It is tough physically and mentally,” he conceded. “You are bound to get injured at some point, so that means you have to get good at coming back from injuries.”

Although hard enduro racing may not be as widely known in Canada as it is in Europe, Hart still gets recognized walking down the streets of Invermere. He was modest about his global fame, saying he is simply grateful for the support he gets from the valley and for all the people in Invermere who wake up at 4 a.m. to watch him compete in a dirt bike race in Europe.

“In the future I want to repay that, and help out young kids who are just getting into dirt biking,” said Hart.

Other Invermere residents put Hart’s modesty in perspective. Christine Shaw and Jay Lightfoot watched Hart compete in the Red Bull Romaniacs race in Romania last year, and told the Pioneer that he is a bona fide celebrity on the other side of the Atlantic.

“It’s (enduro) a very big deal there, and he’s a very big deal,” said Shaw, outlining the huge crowds that follow the races. Every time Shaw and Lightfoot told someone they were from Canada, conversation instantly turned to Hart. “It’s pretty awesome.”

Hart is the first Canadian dirt biker (and only the second ever from North America) to get on the podium at the Erzberg Rodeo.

He next heads to the U.S. to compete in the last two races in the U.S. Hard Enduro Championship series. Hart is five points behind first place in the overall standings, but is optimistic he can do well enough in the final pair of events to surge into first and win the series for the fourth year in a row.

Invermere dirt biker Trystan Hart had a rough start at the legendary Red Bull Erzberg Rodeo Hard Enduro but still managed to grab silver. PHOTO SUBMITTED

RCMP REPORT

Watch for ‘emergency scam’

Sgt. Ed deJong Columbia Valley RCMP

On June 17 the Columbia Valley RCMP received a report of a stolen vehicle.

At approximately 2 p.m. a red 2005 Nissan Titan was stolen from Radium Hot Springs. The vehicle had BC plate NH8073 attached at the time. If you observe this vehicle, do not approach and call the Columbia Valley RCMP at 250-342-9292.

One of the scams that has been circulating over the past number of years is the so-called “emergency scam.” Emergency fraud usually targets loving grandparents, taking advantage of their emotions to defraud them of their money. If you get a call claiming a loved

one has been involved in an emergency and they need money from you, here are some tips to prevent being scammed:

• Take your time to verify the story. Scammers are counting on you wanting to quickly help your loved one in an emergency

• Call the child’s parents or friends to find out about their whereabouts.

• Ask the person on the phone questions that only your loved one would be able to answer and verify the caller’s identity before taking steps to help.

• Never send money to anyone you don’t know and trust

• Never give out any personal information to the caller.

Lake Windermere Pulse Check

Average Water Temperature: 17.0°C

Average Water Depth: 4.6 m

Average Turbidity: 1.7 NTU

Average D.O.: 10.0 mg/L

Average pH: 8.2

The water depth has risen slightly, up from last week, as well as temperature. Water colour was a cloudy green with lower clarity, especially compared to last week’s secchi disc measurements. This also confirms the increase in turbidity readings today, indicating we may finally be seeing some spring runoff (freshet).

Thank you to this week’s citizen scientist volunteer Emma from Fairmont and to the crew at the District of Invermere for supplying

the boat.

To volunteer with the Ambassadors out on the lake this summer, please contact us at (250) 341-6898 or info@lakeambassadors.ca

Community fondly remembers Nadine Hale

People loved her extraordinary commitment and dedication

By Steve Hubrecht  steve@columbiavalleypioneer.com

When Invermere resident Nadine Hale passed away earlier this month, it left a hole in the Columbia Valley that will be felt for decades to come.

To say that Nadine was ‘involved’ does not do justice to the scope and breadth of her volunteer efforts. She didn’t just help the community — in many respects she was the community: one of those rare residents that are at the centre of so many initiatives, programs and projects that you can say, without exaggeration, that she made the valley what it is.

Nadine passed away on June 1, following a courageous battle with cancer. In the days and weeks after, friends, co-workers, members of too many nonprofit groups to count, and valley residents from all walks of life offered their condolences to Nadine’s family — husband Peter, and children Logan and Craig — and shared with the Pioneer memories of her extraordinary commitment to making the Columbia Valley and the world at large better places.

They recall Nadine’s dedication, her ever calm and friendly demeanour, her seemingly endless ability to participate and help, her deep love of her family and the outdoors, and a beautifully uncommon ability to consider other people’s perspectives and try her hardest to accommodate and include everyone possible. They noted her volunteer efforts with parent advisory councils (PACs) at Eileen Madson Primary School (EMP), J.A. Laird Elementary School, David Thompson Secondary School (DTSS), the youth basketball program, the Summit Youth Centre Hub, the Toby Creek Nordic Club, the Recreation Adapted (RAD) Society, Columbia Valley Pride, the Windermere Valley Shared Ministry United Church, her tireless advocacy for Indigenous language revitalization, including the Ktunaxa Nature Walk book launched just this week, her involvement in ‘greening’ the Invermere hospital, including launching a bike-to-work-week that started as a department endeavour, then became a hospital-wide initiative, then grew into a community-wide event, and so much more.

All those, it’s worth pointing out, account for volunteering through official channels such as nonprofit groups. If you add in all of the informal channels — all the times she has helped a neighbour in need, connected people who might do great work together, or offered a kind word at just the right time — you start to

get a sense of the full depth of her giving spirit.

She not only gave of herself, but also fostered the same in those around her. The Pioneer witnessed on multiple occasions as she nurtured civic engagement in her children, encouraging and supporting Logan to attend Invermere council meetings and speak on behalf of Columbia Valley Pride, and encouraging and supporting Craig to go to council meetings and advocate for shared use of the Mount Nelson Athletic Park (MNAP) courts for basketball players.

“Nadine was the heart of so many community building and social justice projects. I've worked with her on five different projects over the past few years, and this was just a sliver of all of the effort she put into making our community a better place,” said Columbia Basin Environmental Education Network (CBEEN) executive director Duncan Whittick.

“She was an angel in her ability to connect the right people and made stuff happen for RAD,” said RAD Society founder Tanelle Bolt. “She always saw the value in having everyone outside recreating, not just able-bodied people. She had a very big impact and she was so compassionate.”

“Nadine had the biggest heart you can imagine,” said her friend Chenoa Paccagnan.

Nadine and Paccagnan worked together in multiple volunteer endeavours, and Paccagnan was amazed at how Nadine always took the time to make sure everyone was consulted. “She really tried to put herself in other people’s shoes to a degree I’ve never seen before. She was always thinking ‘if that was me, how would I want to be treated?’ That was just how she did things,” Paccagnan told the Pioneer

Paccagnan recalled baking cupcakes with Nadine (not just a batch, but 75 to 100 cupcakes) several times a year to give to teachers “just to say ‘hey, we appreciate you’.” In just two (of many) examples Paccagnan explained the key role Nadine played in having an open gym space at DTSS in the mornings and afternoons so that youth had a place for recreation, and her drive this year to help get new jerseys for each high school sports team at DTSS.

“Nadine spoke clearly for sport, for youth and children, and for ways to support sport for families that can’t afford it,” said Paccagnan. “These were all things she did because she could. And she found such joy in doing it . . . from what I understand from her family, she was drawn to environmental causes and social justice ever since she was a young girl . . . she was very vivacious She did not go through life just ticking off boxes. She had a mission and it filled her heart . . . she came alive in the outdoors.”

Continued on page 9

Hale (shown at right) loved outdoor recreation such as skiing and hiking with friends and family.

Notice of Annual Report and Meeting

Pursuant to Section 98 of the Community Charter, the Annual Report for the Village of Radium Hot Springs will be presented during the June 24th, 2024 Regular Meeting of Council. The meeting will take place at 4:00 pm in the Council Chambers located at 4836 Radium Boulevard, Radium Hot Springs, BC.

Council invites submissions and questions concerning the Annual Report. In order to be considered they need to be submitted to the Village Office before 4:00 pm on Monday, June 24th, 2024.

Please email submissions, questions, or comments to: cao@radiumhotsprings.ca

Copies of the Annual Report are available for public inspection at:

• Village of Radium Hot Springs webpage: www.radiumhotsprings.ca

• Village of Radium Hot Springs Village Office located at: 4836 Radium Boulevard, Radium Hot Springs, BC V0A 1M0, 250-347-6455 (copies are available during business hours, 8:30am to 4:30pm).

Questions concerning the content of the Annual Report may also be addressed to Village staff by email, telephone call, or in person.

Adrian

Bergles Chief Administrative Officer

Nadine Hale was a huge supporter of The Summit Youth Hub.

PHOTO SUBMITTED

PHOTO SUBMITTED

The power of volunteering

It is truly amazing (and powerful) what volunteering can do for your community.

Just look at what the late Nadine Hale and Penny Powers did, and the work of Doug Sinclair in Area F. (Be sure to read the articles in this week’s paper recognizing Hale and the regional district’s Volunteers of the Year.)

These individuals really made a difference by giving their time without expecting anything in return. They made their communities a better place to live and have put smiles on countless faces, some of which don’t smile that often.

Volunteering, and being on the receiving end, can truly change people and their outlook on life. It can even find you a life partner to fill you with the tendrils of love. Bah! you say? It’s true; many a love story has been created through volunteering. This is because you meet so many interesting and diverse people who share similar values and beliefs.

Volunteering gives people more clarity in life; opens their eyes to what truly matters. It encourages you to step outside your comfort zone and do wonderful things that make you a better person. That’s because your focus is on something much bigger than yourself. Sometimes people get so wrapped up in their own cocoon that they don’t see the beauty of life around them.

The feeling one gets when helping others is so therapeutic it can significantly improve your physical and mental health. Research has shown that volunteering reduces stress and anxiety, leading to lower rates of depression. Got a chip on your shoulder? Remove it by volunteering. Feeling down? Watch how quickly that disappears when you help someone who is struggling. Looking for a job? Volunteering can turn into one. In fact, many people have landed employment this way.

Options for Lake Windermere

There are countless examples how you can enhance your community by giving just a few hours of your time each month. Here are just a few: stocking shelves at the food bank, feeding animals (or taking them for a walk) at the SPCA, coaching a youth sports team, delivering Meals on Wheels, driving cancer patients to their appointments, weeding at your community garden, lending a hand at a community event, and being a tutor at a local school. Helping a child struggling with reading is a feel-good endeavour that really makes a difference.

Many people use the excuse that they don’t have the time. But once they volunteer for an hour or two and see the results, it’s contagious and they discover how easy it is to commit more hours to the cause.

In a recent Pioneer issue the Columbia Valley Boating Association (CVBA) stated their opinions. Further they stated there are anti-boater advocates for Lake Windermere, and perhaps Columbia Lake also.

Hopefully differing opinions can be discussed civilly. This does not have to be a mud-slinging contest.

When they say boaters, the CVBA are inferring fossil fuelled boats and Seadoos as they only refer to conjoining repair shops, marinas, fuelling stations, storage facilities, and boat docks. These are not required by other watercraft such as canoes, paddleboards, small sail boats, kayaks, and windsurfers.

But these small craft and swimmers do not stand a chance against the wakes, crosswakes, and water turbulence created by power boats, let alone instances of near decapitation by tow lines.

mental concerns. UBC unbiased professional studies have been available for 10 years now finding that wake boats in particular are severely damaging lake bottoms eight to 10 metres below them.

Lake Windermere has only a small deepest area that is ever at most six metres deep. We now are all aware of this, so to be true to their environmental concerned words, the CVBA should be advocating banning wake boats here.

Another difficulty is that fossil fuelled boats create big noise amplified often with blaring music that ricochets for five kilometres around the whole lake, and one kilometre inland it is still audible.

Two surveys find that the vast majority of visitors and locals prefer no motorized recreation on the lake.

Lyonel Doherty,

editor

There are so many organizations in the Columbia Valley in need of volunteers. In some cases their programs to help the less fortunate would cease without your help.

So the question becomes, ‘if 95-plus per cent of visitors and locals are not power boaters, why do power boaters get to dominate the Lake 100 per cent of the time?’

The CVBA also said they are cognizant of environ-

Let’s imagine a non-motorized lake. Many other environmentally safe activities could be pursued and this area would become known as a peaceful, quiet haven enticing many people who’d prefer this.

Bill Ark, Invermere

RDEK announces volunteers of the year

Submitted by RDEK

The RDEK has announced its 2024 Electoral Area Volunteers of the Year.

“We recognize the profound impact volunteers have. They are the heart of our communities and it is an honour for us to pay special tribute to them through the annual Electoral Area Volunteer of the Year Awards Program,” says RDEK board chair Rob Gay.

This year’s award recipients are: Terry Horton (Area A), Corlyn Haarstad (Area B), Allan Watson (Area C), Marilyn Bowen (Area E), Doug Sinclair (Area F), and Penny Powers (posthumous award for Area G).

The volunteers will be recognized individually in conjunction with the Electoral Area Town Hall meetings, which will be happening in Electoral Areas A, B and C in the fall and in Electoral Areas E, F and G over the coming weeks.

The first Town Hall meeting will be held on June 18 in Wilmer and will begin with a special tribute to Area G Volunteer of the Year Penny Powers, who passed away during the nomination process. Area G Director Roberta Schnider will make a presentation to Powers’ family in her memory.

Immediately following the Volunteer of the Year ceremony, there will be presentations from RDEK staff on a range of topics including the budget, personal emergency preparedness, FireSmart and an upcoming Broadband Project in Edgewater.

The Electoral Area F Volunteer of the Year celebration and Town Hall will be held June 25 in Windermere.

Doug Sinclair (Area F)

For the last 28 years, Doug has devoted himself to his community, offering his services quietly and without seeking praise. As a founding member of the Windermere Fire Department, Doug was involved in every aspect of its creation, from purchasing the first en-

gine, rallying the first Windermere firefighters in 1982, and building the original hall.

Doug remains active and takes a leadership role mentoring recruits and showing all members the tricks of the trade. His impact has been significant throughout his dedicated service as a firefighter, officer, trainer, and mentor. His legacy is evident in his leadership succession, with his son now serving as chief and his grandson as a dedicated firefighter.

As the fire department is tasked to respond to a greater spectrum of situations, of which fires make up only a small portion, this is no small feat for a volunteer. Whether it is an ice rescue with a hovercraft, a structure fire at -30 degrees (or +30 degrees), a car accident in a snowstorm or a sick person at 2 a.m., Doug is there with a wealth of knowledge and compassion that no book can teach, and no course can train.

One of the greatest gifts that Doug has given is his time. Endless time that he has spent going over, showing, and teaching anyone who wants to learn. Yes, currently the firefighter members are reimbursed, so that they can volunteer to leave their work and fight fires, but previous to 2005 there was no payment for helping your community. Doug was an integral part of this service long before that reimbursement came along. Doug is truly the heart of the Windermere Fire Department and the respect for his leadership is shared across the organization.

Penny Powers (Area G)

Penny was the spirit of many circles in the Columbia Valley and that couldn't have been more evident than in her passing. She was a valued member of the Edgewater Fire Department where she devoted many hours, involved with local ski clubs coaching kids in community schools, and an active member of the FireSmart committee in Edgewater.

Penny always made time to give herself to the cause at hand and when she did, she did it with enthusiasm and brought energy and excellence every time. Penny was a citizen who modelled being fully engaged in her community, the spirit of volunteerism, and how to live a healthy, active lifestyle. She was instrumental in the initiation of the Lake Windermere Whiteway and was on the volunteer committee supporting this work for over a decade. She was a part of the project from its inception and was there to be one of the ribbon cutters when the trail earned its Guinness Book of World Records recogni-

tion. Her volunteer work extended to the board of the Toby Creek Nordic Ski Club for many years, the Banff Film Fest Volunteer Committee, and the 'Babes on Blades' Women's Hockey League. She also volunteered for the Chamber of Commerce, and a variety of tourism committees, supporting the visitor experience in the Valley.

Penny truly made herself available to anyone who was looking for support to help improve health and wellness in the Columbia Valley. She was tireless in her support for our valley residents, culture, and spirit.

Shown here is Penny Powers (left) with her family. Penny was a “powerhouse” volunteer.

FILE PHOTO

Fairmont Hot Springs chef on a tasty roll

By Steve Hubrecht  steve@columbiavalleypioneer.com

Local chef Lara McCormack continues her remarkable run on the Favourite Chef, one of North America’s largest online cooking competitions.

As the Pioneer reported two weeks ago, McCormack was one of thousands of cooks across Canada and the U.S who applied to be on the Favourite Chef this year. Her application was successful, and Columbia Valley residents, friends and family have been casting digital votes for McCormack ever since the 2024 version of the competition launched back in mid-May.

When the Pioneer last reported on McCormack in late May, she had just swept into the second round of the Favourite Chef — the top 20 — with relative ease, finishing third out of 60 competitors in the first round. Since then two more rounds have concluded, whittling the field down to the top 15 (third round of the competition), then the top 10. McCormack has not only survived those rounds, but thrived, and indeed as this issue of the Pioneer went to press she was perched first in the fourth round voting, leading the pack of 10 remaining chefs vying to reach the top five.

Readers can help McCormack (known to many locals through her in-

Our Creation Story speaks of the giant, Naⱡmuqȼin, and a prophecy from the Creator that would create all the human beings in the world.

Before humans, the land was occupied by the animals.

At that time, there was a disturbance caused by a water monster known as Yawuʔnik who killed many creatures

Spirit Animals formed a war party to destroy Yawuʔnik, and the party (led by Naⱡmuqȼin) pursued Yawuʔnik through the Kootenay & Columbia river systems.

After many adventures, and much cooperation between the Spirit Animals, Yawuʔnik was killed and butchered His meat was distributed among the Spirit Animals so that everyone was fed Yawuʔnik’s organs were removed and became the various races of people, scattered throughout the world.

These events placed the Ktunaxa People here, in our ancestral homelands, as stewards of the land.

The lakes and waterways are a testament of this feat, as are Yawuʔnik’s ribs, now known as The Hoodoos.

When the prophecy was fulfilled, Naⱡmuqȼin, in all his excitement, rose to his feet, stood upright, and hit his head on the ceiling of the sky, knocking himself dead.

His feet lay northward in a place we call Ya·kⱡiki, in the Yellowhead Pass vicinity His head went south and rests near Yaqawxawiȼǂamki (Yellowstone Park in the State of Montana), and his body is now known as the Rocky Mountains

LEAR N MOR E : www.ktunaxa.org/ who-we-are/creation-story

volvement in the local food scene and as co-owner of From Scratch: A Mountain Kitchen in Fairmont Hot Springs) secure a  spot in the fifth round by casting a free vote online at favchef.com/2024/ lara-mccormack. But don’t delay, as the online voting closes at 8 p.m. MDT on Thursday, June 20, the day this issue of the Pioneer lands in readers’ hands.

If McCormack wins — a genuine possibility given her vote tallies so far — she earns a $25,000 prize, will fly to New York to cook with celebrity chef Carla Hall at the James Beard House, and will be featured on the cover of Taste of Home magazine. McCormack said that if she wins the Favourite Chef, she’ll donate half the prize money to the Windermere District Farmers’ Institute to help get a proper roof over the Wednesday Agri-Park Farmers’ Market at the crossroads, and will use the other half of the prize money to pivot her business into personal cooking classes and to finish a cookbook she has been working on.

“I’m going to enjoy this ride and whatever it brings. I’m having fun,” McCormack previously told the Pioneer, speaking about the competition, adding that when it comes to cooking “whether I am cooking for my family, a client or 150 kids for a hot lunch, the amount of happiness I see over a meal keeps my soul and inspiration going.”

www.akisqnuk.org www.aqam.net www.tobaccoplains.org www.lowerkootenay.com

Lara McCormack is enjoying the ride on the Favorite Chef, one of North America’s largest online cooking contests. PHOTO SUBMITTED

Hale’s work cherished by many in the valley

Continued from page 5

Paccagnan recalled Nadine’s dedication to her family, noting how she went to great lengths to help Logan learn the business side of being an artist, and loved watching Craig play basketball and soccer.

Winter was Nadine’s favourite season and even a broken leg this past winter couldn’t keep her indoors, as she used the RAD Society’s adaptive cross-country skis to get out and make laps around Lake Lillian, explained Paccagnan.

Living Lakes Canada advisor and Ktunaxa ?aqtsmaknik member Mara Nelson took Ktunaxa language lesson classes with Nadine and told the Pioneer she was always amazed by how much time Nadine dedicated to learning Ktunaxa language. “She was a lifelong learner, and she was always so gracious,” said Nelson, recalling that Nadine was particularly fascinated by Ktunaxa heart words. “To see an understanding of the depth of our language from someone coming from an outside (non-Ktuxana) perspective is rare,” added Nelson. “She is a light that will never stop shining. She is missed already.”

?akisq’nuk elder Alfred Joseph taught Ktunaxa language classes to Nadine and she helped Joseph with the Ktunaxa Nature Walk book. He said that Nadine was a good friend to many and that he was heartbroken to lose her.

Paccagnan also spoke to Nadine’s commitment to learning Ktunaxa language, recalling a time when Nadine put her hand on a tree, turned to Paccagnan and explained that she’d learned that in Ktunaxa there are 36 different ways to talk about a tree and how people exist in relation to that tree. “She felt that was deeply powerful, and she was quick to point out that there simply is no equivalent in English,” said Paccagnan.

“We are all grieving the loss of Nadine. She was instrumental in making significant change in this community, including the new rainbow crosswalk

by Stolen Church. We are all heartened that it was able to be installed before we lost her, as well as the banners that you see in Invermere. They were all the immense hard work of Nadine who was a significant contributor to the progress Pride has made in the last few years,” said Columbia Valley Pride chair Gemma Beierback.

Invermere parent Gerri Brightwell served with Nadine on PACs at EMP, J.A. Laird Elementary, and DTSS and explained “it was very important to her to make the school a better place, both for students and for staff.”

Brightwell pointed to Nadine’s role in making sure the outdoor learning space at J.A. Laird Elementary (the gazebo to the west of the main school building) included aspects of Indigenous learning, with interpretive information in Indigenous languages. “All of that is there because Nadine put such value on inclusivity and reconciliation,” said Brightwell.

“Nadine was bold and passionate, in faith, in love for her family, and in commitment to justice. She was incredibly accepting and loving, had an empathetic heart, and reached out to people in love and prayer with grace,” said former Invermere United Church minister Laura Hermakin.

Hermakin’s comments were echoed by United Church member Marla Nor quay, and Norquay added that “Nadine did feel spiritually connected when she was outdoors enjoying nature and she hoped that others had experienced that sense of awe for themselves as well.”

That passion translated into Na dine’s many outdoor trips – big and small — with family and friends, back country hiking, camping, skiing, and swimming in freezing cold alpine lakes. She made sure that Logan and Craig were capable of navigating by compass and were comfortable enough in the backcountry to do solo overnight hikes.

Nadine’s friend Karen Nickurak spent time with Nadine in the back country and told the Pioneer that “Na

dine was the ultimate planner. She organized several trips to beautiful locations throughout the Kootenays and Rockies. Often, she was on the phone for hours trying to reserve backcountry cabins and campsites. Nadine knew I was always keen to go on an adventure but she would say to me with a smile that she'd bring strong coffee and good chocolate because those were my two food groups. That was the kind of friend she was.”

Nickurak added that “through Na-

dine’s passion for the backcountry and her adventurous spirit, she brought people together and strengthened friendships. Her enthusiasm and deep respect of the mountains, forests, lakes and rivers will leave a lasting impact on those who were fortunate enough to be with Nadine and all she gave with her very full heart to those around her.”

A celebration of life honouring Nadine will be held on Friday, June 21 at 5 p.m. at the Columbia Valley Centre. Doors open at 4 p.m.

for

Nadine Hale made the valley and the world at large a better place to live

everyone.

PHOTO SUBMITTED

OUT OF OFFICE…

New Cenotaph Park Patio Open!

Welcome to the new Cenotaph Park Patio in Downtown Invermere! A place where the community can come together to meet, eat, and gather.

Following the 7th Street closure survey this past winter, it was recognized that residents wanted more vibrancy in Downtown Invermere, regardless of the outcome of the survey. There was a need for a casual space that would comfortable, accessible and inviting for locals and visitors alike to enjoy the downtown Invermere atmosphere. In furtherance of this goal, the Columbia Valley Chamber of Commerce recently presented to the Invermere Council with a closure request on behalf of the Invermere Business

Committee about closing a section of 12th Avenue. The goal of this traffic-free space is to provide more space for people to gather and spend more time in downtown Invermere.

Parking is available in front of the post office and across the street in front of Avenue Ladies Boutique, and drivers still have vehicle access to the alley behind Inspire Floral Boutique. There is also a large parking area across from Peppi’s Pizza (where the old Community Hall building used to be).

With picnic tables, umbrellas, sidewalk chalk, and a food truck, the Cenotaph Park

Patio is off to a fun start! The grade 6/7 class from J.A. Laird painted the white concrete blocks to add even more colour to the area. Ten shaded picnic tables, including two with extended ends for accessibility, are available for diners to enjoy take out. Need a rest from shopping? Take a break and let the kids run loose! The area is open to food trucks, busking, and more! Busking and business permits are available through the District of Invermere.

Our downtown is a pretty special place – let’s take this opportunity to enjoy everything it has to offer!

Thursday, June 20

• 10:00am-12:00pm: Little Explorers. Canal Flats Lions Park – look for the CBAL sign. Outdoor Learning for children ages 2-6 and caregivers. Siblings welcome. Age-appropriate learning and fun in nature.  Come prepared to have fun, get dirty, maybe even wet.  Free to attend but registration is required. 250-409-4251 or wvcoordinator@cbal.org to register or for more information.

9:00am-12:00pm: Pickleball Mt Nelson Athletic Park. Drop-in.

• 10:30am-11:30am: Senior’s Fitness Columbia Valley Centre, $2 dropin.

• 1:00pm-3:00pm: Pickleball Invermere Curling Club. Skills & Drills #2. 2:00pm-3:00pm: Needles & Hooks. Invermere Public Library. Join us on the 1st & 3rd Thursday of each month at 2:00pm for Needles & Hooks. Bring your current yarn project and meet with other makers. All welcome!

• 6:00pm-7:00pm: Read it and Eat! Invermere Public Library. Read it and Eat is a cookbook club where we choose a featured cookbook each month, participants choose a recipe to make, and then bring the dish to the meeting to enjoy food and good company! Please contact the Invermere Library for details. The featured cookbook this month is: Christopher Kimball’s Milk Street 365.

• 6:00pm-8:00pm: Ladies Golf Clinic. Radium Springs Course Range. Half short game instruction, half long game instruction. Any skill level – all welcome. Members $50, Non-members $60. To reserve, email the Director of Golf: directorofgolf@radiumgolf.ca

• 6:30pm-8:30pm: Pickleball Invermere Curling Club. Advanced Round Robin.

• 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, June 21

• 9:00am-12:00pm: Pickleball Mt Nelson Athletic Park. Drop-in.

• 10:30am-11:00am: Family Storytime. Invermere Public Library. Join us weekly on Fridays for Family Storytime at the library! With stories, songs & a craft. Geared towards preschool age (2-5) but all welcome.

• 6:30pm-8:30pm: Pickleball Invermere Curling Club. Novice Play. 6:30pm - close: Meat Draw and 50/50 in the Legion! Members and guests welcome!

Saturday, June 22

• 10:00am-1:00pm: Canal Flats Bighorn Sheep Weed Pull. Canal Flats Village Office carpark. Wildsight Invermere and the East Kootenay Invasive Species Council (EKISC) are joining forces to host a weed pull in the bighorn sheep habitat around Canal Flats. Training will include identification and control methods, as well as understanding the impact of invasives and recreation on the sheep and other wildlife. We will spend around 2 hours out on the trails pulling up and bagging the weeds. Gloves and bags will be provided, or bring your own, and enjoy a complimentary barbeque afterwards from 12.30pm.

• 2:00pm-3:00pm: Indigenous Story Time. Invermere Library. Continue the celebration of National Indigenous Peoples Day with an Indigenous Story Time with special guests Tisha and Robyn Tardif of the Secwépmec Nation. All welcome!

• 9:00am-12:00pm: Pickleball Mt Nelson Athletic Park. Drop-in. 10:30am-11:00am: Family Storytime. Invermere Public Library. Join us weekly on Saturdays for Family Storytime at the library! With stories, songs & a craft. Geared towards preschool age (2-5) but all welcome.

• 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.

2:00pm-4:00pm: Buddy Reading. Invermere Public Library. Contact us to book a 30 minute session to read with a librarian. Practice reading aloud one-on-one to build skill, confidence & a love of reading! Open to all ages and reading abilities.

• 2:00pm-4:00pm: Pickleball Invermere Curling Club. DUPR play.

• 6:30pm: Meat Draw and 50/50 in the Legion! Members and guests welcome!

Sunday, June 23

• 4:30pm-8:00pm: ACC Bugaboo Section BBQ and Social. CPR Lodge. Sunday BBQ Party! We are excited to host another ACC get-together this spring at the CPR Lodge in Invermere. Families, friends, members and non-members are all welcome. Grab some bbq grub and cold drinks on a hot Sunday afternoon and meet other like mountain folk! Slip and slide for adults, bouncy castle for the kids. Gear Raffle

2:00pm: Cards, Cribbage and Darts Come to the Legion and have some

Monday, June 24

• 9:00am-12:00pm: Pickleball Mt Nelson Athletic Park. Drop-in. 10:00am-11:00am: Senior's Yoga Columbia Valley Centre, Invermere. $2 drop in, open to all seniors.

6:30pm: Poker (Chip up for Charity). The Station Pub $20 buy-in. Every Monday.

6:30pm-9:00pm: Pickleball Invermere Curling Club. Novice Play

• 6:30pm: Duplicate Bridge. Invermere Seniors Hall. Visitors Welcome $2

Tuesday, June 25

9:00am-12:00pm: Pickleball Mt Nelson Athletic Park. Drop-in.

• 10:30am-11:30am: Senior’s Fitness Columbia Valley Centre, $2 drop-in.

• 6:30pm-8:00pm: Second Winds Community Band. We are looking for new band members! Play an instrument? Practice at Invermere Catholic Church Annex. For info please email dalvande@shaw.ca 6:30pm-8:30pm: Pickleball Invermere Curling Club. Skills & Drills #1

• 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, June 26

• 10:00am-12:00pm: Little Explorers. Radium Hot Springs, Main Park – look for the CBAL sign. Outdoor Learning for children ages 2-6 and caregivers. Siblings welcome. Age-appropriate learning and fun in nature.  Come prepared to have fun, get dirty, maybe even wet.  Free to attend but registration is required. 250-409-4251 or wvcoordinator@cbal.org to register or for more information.

1:00pm-2:30pm: Nature Journaling. Sinclair Creek Trail parking lot. Walk. Pause. Journal. Create. Breathe. Take a moment to connect with each other and with nature.  Share some nature knowledge tidbits and use journaling prompts to inspire your personal reflection and creative freedom. Journals and art supplies provided. Registration required.

• 9:00am-12:00pm: Pickleball Mt Nelson Athletic Park. Drop-in

• 10:00am-11:00am: Senior's Yoga Columbia Valley Centre, $2 drop11:30am-12:00pm: Story Time. Radium Public Library - preschool & 3:00pm-6:30pm: Wednesday Farmers’ Market. Agri park, Hwy 93 across from Copperpoint resort. Featuring farm fresh produce, local meat, eggs, and honey. Chefs, artisans and bakers sell their goods in the historic barn. Live Music.

6:00pm-9:00pm: Wednesday Dinners & Meat Draw & 50/50 Invermere Legion. All welcome.

6:30pm-8:30pm: Pickleball Invermere Curling Club. Ladies Night

ENTERTAINMENT

getting boost by Wildsight

the Lake Club. A bank was preduring a resloped opportunities. Environment

six Mowere intagged at provide habitat swallow ensigns were Indigenous inPerspecSecwépemc exciting continue to swallow nests. We’ll landowner through farmpresentations, swallows to with busito co-exThere will

be a bank swallow restoration initiative near Parson.

In Edgewater we plan to make modifications to a pre-existing barn to make it structurally sound and more suitable for barn swallows and bats, partnering with The Nature Trust of BC and the Wildlife Conservation Society. And we will be building an artificial nesting structure at Moberly Marsh, collaborating with Ducks Unlimited Canada and BC Parks.

We cannot do this work without the help of volunteers and are once again looking for people with binoculars to help us until September. Volunteers will monitor swallow nests, or colonies,

or possibly the effectiveness of conservation actions already on the ground. This is a great way to learn more about our local swallows and get outside at the same time. We provide training and support.

To learn more please visit the Wildsight Golden website or contact us at swallows@wildsight.ca.

Thank you to all of the volunteers that help make swallow conservation in the Columbia Valley a success.

This program is managed by local biologist Rachel Darvill and naturalist Verena Shaw.

We look forward to hearing from you!

GRADS OF 2024

Now is the perfect time to congratulate the graduating class of 2024 with a heartfelt message in the Columbia Valley Pioneer. By advertising in this feature you will help make it possible for the Pioneer to produce this memento for our graduates of 2024.

in this

Bull riding returns for Rockies’ fund

By Stephanie Stevens

What better way to spend a Friday evening in Invermere than with bull riding, Mexican poker, a 50/50 draw, food vendors and a street dance with live music?

And the icing on the cake: it all goes to support the Columbia Valley Rockies.

The July 19 event is the 24th annual bull riding fundraiser for the local Kootenay International Junior Hockey League Junior A team.

Originally branded Bull Bustin’ in the Rockies and held in Eddie Mountain Memorial Arena, Bull Riding in the Rockies has undergone the inevitable tweaks that any long-term event sees.

It is now held in the lot across from The Eddie on 13th Street and this year the dance portion of the evening will be an open-air event, albeit under a tent to fend off any inclement weather.

team and we are so grateful they do so.”

One of the curveballs Holt referred to was building all new bleachers for the stands, a hefty ticket item for a non-profit to foot the bill for.

“Between the bleachers and the cost of running the team, our expenses have gone way up, so we did have to raise the ticket prices,” he said. “But it is more than one event for the ticket: you get the entertainment of the bull riding and then live bands. Cole Malone (along with some local talent yet to be announced) will headline the dance.”

The increased cost of running a Junior A team is most noticeable with away games. Fuel, food and hotel costs have increased significantly over the past few years and the team is feeling the bite.

Ad deadline: Friday, June 21

Pioneer Publication Date: Thursday, June 27

Pioneer Publication date: Thursday, June 27 For more information contact Amanda Nason at 250-341-6299 ext 102 or e-mail advertising@columbiavalleypioneer.com

Columbia Valley Rockies president Brett Holt said despite some last-minute change-ups that resulted in a bit of a scramble, they are on track for a “fantastic” event July 19.

“We had a few setbacks to navigate and some significant unexpected expenses, but we are still looking forward to putting on a heck of an event,” said Holt.

“Phil Sommerville and Nina Reilly have once again given us the go-ahead to use their property free of charge for the bull riding in their support of the

Associate head coach Tucker Braund said the bonus of community support for the team cannot be understated.

“It is so huge for us. We rely on them a lot for support during games, billeting the kids who come there to play and of course the monetary value the community provides us with … without that we wouldn’t be able to operate a competitive hockey team in the valley.”

Proceeds from Bull Riding in the Rockies accounts for about 25 per cent of the club’s annual budget.

Tickets are available on Showpass and the early bird price is $55 until June 30 and $60 per person after that.

Bull Riding in the Rockies returns for more thrills and spills on Friday, July 19. The event is a fundraiser for the Columbia Valley Rockies hockey team.

PHOTO CAIO PAAGMAN

ENTERTAINMENT

Symphony of the Kootenays comes to town

By Steve Hubrecht  steve@columbiavalleypioneer.com

Columbia Valley classical music lovers should mark their calendars: the Symphony of the Kootenays will be in town in a few weeks for a show at the Columbia Valley Centre.

The show, going by the name Symphony in the Valley, will see the group joined by Ktunaxa drum group Susap-Nana.

“It’s quite unique,” said Symphony of the Kootenays board member Jim Webster. “We have collaborated with choirs, school groups and the Kimberley pipe band before, but this is the first time we’ve performed with an Indigenous drum group. We’re very excited . . . I don’t know how often this type of collaboration (an Indigenous drum group and a symphony orchestra) happens. It’s the first one I know of, it may be the first

one period.”

The Symphony of the Kootenays has been around in one form or another for almost 50 years. The orchestra is based in Cranbrook, but its 44 musicians come from all across the Kootenay region — Nelson, Cranbook, Kimberley and even a few from Invermere.

The group plays most of its shows in Cranbrook, but does a short tour each year.

“Usually we just go to Creston and Nelson on tour. But this year we wanted to expand that a bit. We did do a one-off show in Invermere about a year and a half ago, and it went well. So we thought we’d come back,” Webster told the Pioneer

Since the members of the orchestra live so far apart, they each practise their parts individually, and usually only get together for a few whole-group rehearsals the day before a show.

The Susap-Nana will open the show before the

Symphony of the Kootenay plays several classical pieces, and then the two bands will play together on ‘the Fire Dance’ from the ‘Three-Cornered Hat’ ballet.

Aside from ‘the Fire Dance’ there will be music from the Lord of the Rings, Smetana Moldau, Strauss, Beethoven, Grieg, Bartok, Resphigi and more.

“It is great to live in the Kootenays. There are many great things, but there is not a lot of opportunity to listen to live classical music. So this is a rare chance for people in Invermere to hear a symphony and an even rarer chance to hear a unique collaboration (with the Susap-Nana),” said Webster.

He advised those interested in seeing the show to get tickets early: only 200 are available and 100 have already been sold.

The show is on Saturday, July 6 at 7 p.m. Tickets are $50 for adults and $22 for students and can be purchased at sotk.ca.

The Symphony of the Kootenays is shown here anticipating the show in Invermere on Saturday, July 6 at Columbia Valley Centre at 7 p.m.

PHOTOS LYLE GRISEDALE

Students were enthralled when Kind Bee Farms delivered and hatched more than 7,000 bees at Groundswell Community Greenhouse and Gardens recently.

PHOTO SUBMITTED

Invermere on the Lake

ANNUAL MEETING AND 2023 REPORT

Pursuant to Sections 98 & 99 of the Community Charter (BC), the Annual Meeting and presentation of the 2023 Annual Report for the District of Invermere will be presented during the June 25, 2024 Regular Meeting of Council. The Annual Meeting will take place at 7:00 pm in the Invermere Council Chambers located at the District of Invermere Municipal Office at 914 – 8th Avenue, Invermere, BC VOA 1K0

Invermere Council invites submissions and questions concerning the 2023 Annual Report. In order to be considered by Council, submissions and questions need to be submitted to the Municipal Office before 4:30 pm on June 24, 2024.

Please email submissions, questions, or comments to info@invermere.net

Copies of the 2023 Annual Report are available for public inspection at:

District of Invermere webpage https://invermere. civicweb.net/

• District of Invermere Facebook page www.facebook.com/districtofinvermere

District of Invermere Municipal Office located at 914 – 8th Avenue, Invermere, BC VOA 1K0

Tel: 250-342-9281

Fax: 250-342-2934

(copies are available during regular business hours, 8:30 am to 4:30 pm).

Questions concerning the content of the 2023 Annual Report may also be addressed to District staff by email: info@invermere.net, telephone call to 250-342-9281, or by in-person visit at the Municipal Office.

Andrew Young, MCIP, RPP Chief Administrative Officer

BEE-autiful event inspiring

Submitted by Barbara Thrasher

Kind Bee Farms through the work of Groundswell Community Greenhouse and Gardens delivered and hatched over 7000 bees in the valley last week.

Our students who care about healthy food for everyone invited Kind Bee houses to come to Edgewater Elementary, Windermere Elementary, Eileen Madson Primary, JA Laird Elementary, and the Summit Youth Hub to make a home in their school yards. The students will be watching over them until the little tubes are filled with eggs. Then they will winter them for the next year.

They are actively taking steps to ensure more organic food for the future.

The students were enthralled as the bees hatched in front of their eyes. They overcame some bee fear as

DISTRICT OF INVERMERE

they watched little ones land on them. They are solitary bees with no queen and so they are not aggressive.

One leaf cutter bee will pollinate an equivalent of what 20 honey bees will do. As they buzz over the garden they pollinate the flowers and your garden will produce more prolifically. Caroline Hall installed a Kind Bee leaf cutter bee house in her garden last season and commented how much more produce she had despite the adverse effects of drought and grasshoppers. She attributed it to her busy little leaf cutter bees. If you would like a bee house and bees contact events@groundswellnetwork.ca.

Aldene Atkinson, nutritionist at Windermere Elementary, spoke on the benefits of honey and served delicious honey-based lemonade to the students and guests. The thank-you bee cards from Lara Buckman-Duck’s students were creative and very appreciated.

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 (STR TUP) listed in the table below. Issuance of the permits will be considered by the delegated staff person at 10:00 am on July 10, 2024 at the Invermere District office at 914 - 8th Avenue in Invermere, BC.

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 info@invermere.net prior to 4:30 pm on July 3, 2024. All submissions should include your name and address. Please be advised that any written submissions will become part of public record.The notices are available for viewing by email request or at the Invermere Office between the hours of 8:30 am and 4:30 pm, Monday to Friday, excluding statutory holidays.

For more information contact the Invermere Planning Department, at 250-342-9281 or by email at info@invermere.net.

All written submissions are public information pursuant to the

Questions about the disclosure of your personal information may be referred to the Corporate Officer at

Check out library in June

This week’s column was written by temporary Radium Public Library director Danielle Conolly and Friends of the Library volunteer Donna Tunney. Call 250-347-2434 for more information.

June is Indigenous history month and Pride month.

Our public library has many resources available from creators who are LGBTQ2SIA+, Indigenous, or both. If you are looking for specific resources, please feel free to call us (250-3472434), visit us in person, or send an email to info@radium.bclibrary.ca.

In library programming news, many programs are ending for the summer. Radium storytimes will continue through June, July, and August. An Edgewater storytime will take place each Thursday from July 4 to August 22 at 10:30 a.m. More information is available on our website, https://radium. bc.libraries.coop/.

Summer Reading Club registration opened June 4. Check our website for availability in Edgewater (every second Thursday) and Radium (every Fri-

day) programs that run in July and August. Space is limited, and there will be a waitlist for each group once available spaces are filled.

Friends of the Library

Many thanks to all who helped at our May long-weekend garage sale — from those who donated items, to those who shopped and took home an amazing array of treasures. And, of course, a big thank you to everyone who volunteered.

All proceeds were shared between the Friends of the Radium Library, the Radium Rotary Gardens, and the Radium Fire Hall. We matched last year’s earnings, gaining $1,982 for the library. A great way to start the summer.

This time of year, everyone is searching for that perfect beach read. Fortunately, you won’t have to look far. Our Pop-Up book sales are back starting June 28. Visit us outside the Radium Brewery from 4 to 7 p.m. on Fridays during “Market on Main.” We’ll also have our popular Friendship Rice Bags—nutritious and delicious.

Still short on reading material? Check out our Little Blue Library on Main Street at the Radium Brewery. Feel free to leave a book for others to enjoy, or drop it off at the Radium Public Library, located in the Radium Hot Springs Centre, 4863 Stanley Street.

Sandbag station set up

Submitted by RDEK

With the warmer temperatures and the ongoing spring freshet, the RDEK has set up two self-fill sandbag stations.

The RDEK is encouraging residents who live in flood-prone areas to take steps to be prepared in the event the region does experience localized flooding. Self-fill sandbag stations have been set up in Fairmont behind the old barn at Mountainside Golf Course on Hot Springs Road and at the Hoodoo Mountain Resort on Highway 93/95 near the Centex Gas Station.

The sandbag stations have sand and bags; however, residents need to bring their own shovels and gloves. Additional sandbag stations will be set up around the region as conditions warrant.

River levels in the East Kootenay may rise in the coming weeks and the RDEK is urging residents to stay well away from waterways throughout freshet.

“This time of year, preparedness and safety are key. Know the numbers to call, have a family emergency plan,

Juliana is a celebrated classical pianist from Europe and Brazil. She shares her talent with one performance in the Columbia Valley.

July 2, 2024 7:30-9:00pm Christ Church Trinity, 110 7th Ave, Invermere

Tickets $40

Available at:

www.eventbrite.com/e/a-concert-with-pianist-julianasteinbach-tickets-924068211897?aff=oddtdtcreator

Or scan the QR code with your mobile device

plan ahead to protect your property from flooding if you are in low-lying areas, and ensure you stay well back from waterways as rapid, unpredictable changes in waterways are possible,” says RDEK communications manager Loree Duczek.

The RDEK has distributed its seasonal freshet newsletter to all rural mailboxes in the region and it is posted on the ‘personal preparedness’ page on www.rdek.bc.ca along with a host of other links and resources.

The RDEK continues to urge residents to sign up for the regional Evacuation Notification System, which notifies registrants by landline, mobile phone or text in the event their property or marked location is within an evacuation alert or order area.

Registration instructions and more information are available on the ‘emergency information’ page on www.rdek. bc.ca.

To learn more about how to prepare for emergencies, build an emergency kit or create a family emergency plan, visit www.PreparedBC.ca.

LOSE YOUR LOCAL NEWS

Local swim club hosts meet in Radium SPORTS

The Columbia Valley Swim Club hosted its annual swim meet at Radium Hot Springs on Saturday, June 8. The meet was a huge success, with 24 club members participating along with dozens more swimmers from other clubs in the JENNY HUBRECHT

SPORTS

New tennis club coming to Columbia Valley

Submitted

The “LOVE” for tennis is growing in the Columbia Valley. In fact, a new club is in the works.

Tennis enthusiast Bill Adair and his sporting colleagues are in the process of establishing the Columbia Valley Tennis Club

“There already exists an active group of mostly retired people that play three times a week in the mornings. We hope to provide a wider range of tennis opportunities, particularly to children and young working adults and families,” Adair told the Pioneer.

He noted that Tennis Canada and Tennis BC have been helpful in providing resources to get their club going.

June is (the first ever) Tennis Month in Canada, and to celebrate that the new club is offering a 'Try Tennis' event in Invermere. It will be held at the Mount Nelson tennis court on June 22  from 1 to 3 p.m. Rackets and balls will be provided. Adair added there will also be small prizes for participants.

According to the results of a YouGov Canada study commissioned by Tennis Canada, the sport of tennis in Canada is set to soar after experiencing a spike in interest and participation in 2023.

Nearly five million Canadians picked up a racquet in the past year, and youth participation (ages 6-17) has grow significantly (plus 11 per cent over 2022).

Canines love ‘Plunge’

TO OUR READERS

Delivery Schedule

The delivery schedule for the Columbia Valley Pioneer has changed. Delivery will now occur on Thursday afternoons, and delivery time may vary slightly week-to-week. You will still be able to find the Pioneer in the usual locations, and our E-edition will continue to be available for viewing and downloading in the early morning each Thursday.

PIONEER CLASSIFIEDS

CHEERS

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.

Narcotics Anonymous. Open meeting.

Mondays 7 pm at the BC Service Building, South End. 624-4th St. Invermere

Shout out to Daniel Boyel, mobile mechanic, DanimalS RV SolutionS. My truck broke down and Daniel stopped to help. He quickly accessed the fuel pump was shot and proceeded to arrange for a tow, order parts and then spent the weekend repairing the truck. Thanks and would recommend.

Cheers to Allium Food Truck for putting some color on main street.

Cheers to Val J. for joining our little Friday night group. You add wit and humor, are great company and always up for a good laugh.

Big Cheers to Michelle for finding my lost Nike ball at the first tee box at CopperPoint! You went the extra mile locating it after I shot it into the trees! Big Cheers to Ken for making sure I got it after finishing our 18 holes!

Cheers to Neil P. at Windermere Valley Golf Course. You were very helpful. You fixed my driver in record time and for a good price. Cheers!

Cheers to Zimmer Ranch for the generous donation of two lovely sheep fleeces to the Columbia Valley Weaving & Spinning group. We are skirting, washing, teasing, carding, dying, and spinning yarn from the fleeces. Cheers, Zimmer Ranch!

Cheers to Colin and Leanne of C & L Snack Shack. The food is amazing! They are at Arrowhead Brewing parking lot on Saturdays . You won’t be disappointed.

719- 17St.

Thursday June 20 to

Sunday June 23

11am-4pm

Mostly chinaware and glassware, tables.

Cheers to Shuswap Band. The new crosswalks look great!

Big Cheers to the maintenance staff at Copper Point Golf Resort! The greens are in excellent shape!

CHEERS

Cheers to the Franzen Family, the Huynh Family, The Sievenpiper Family, George Hunhey, Tracy Flynn, Freeherd Visuals and Tetoe Jopp Ranch for your generous donations to Edgewater Elementary Hot Lunch Program!! Cheers to you all for your generosity !!

Cheers to Dr. Nikirk for being patient and understanding.

Cheers to the team at the Invermere Hospital in the Wound Clinic. I had my last appointment June 14 after being a regular for about 2 months. They are a caring and knowledgeable group who treated me with concern and kindness. I appreciate the excellent care.

SERVICES

B. B.’s Home and Design Services

Renovations, Masonry & Handyman Services, Blinds, House checks, eavestrough/ yard cleaning/dump runs. 250-688-2897

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

Get-ER-Done

Handyman

Landscaping, Asphalt Pads, General Contracting, Cleaning Gutters, House Checks, Pressure Washing. Call Ryan 604-346-5087

Well Water Dowsing

Call before you drill Dale Hunt 250-342-3569

We are heartbroken to announce the passing of Whitney Larrissa Nielsen

Whitney was born and raised in Invermere (although she would say Wilmer hill). The years she worked in customer service (The Great Canadian Dollar Store, Invermere Bottle Depot, Fields and A&W) exposed many people to her unique charm. Our witty hummingbird could light up a room with her playful spirit, quick wit and infectious laughter. She worked hard, and loved even harder. Those close to her knew how deeply she cared not just for them, but those who made her life a little brighter.

Tears falling, hearts aching, yearning to hear that laugh again. She leaves behind her partner Stacy Eaton; mother, Pam Nielsen; siblings Justin (Charity: Gabryle & Brooklynne) Nielsen, Nissa (Murray Janzen: Morrison Storvik, Oakley & Drae Janzen); Her extended family: Audrey Bearham, Elizabeth & Kevin Fennell, Ray & Cynthia Nixon, Jarrett Nixon, Jessica Stelmacker & Levi Doherty, Ashley Nielsen & Joel Ranger, and all their children. Lets not forget her four-legged babies: Mulder, Scully, Logan, Lucky and (he’s not a dog, he’s a little boy) Presley.

Her father Larry Nielsen, grandparents Dave & Ruby Nixon, Hartvig & Hilde Nielsen, aunt Joyce Nixon and uncle Dave Nielsen have embraced their little girl and will look after her until we join the party in the sky.

At Rockies West Realty we pride ourselves on fostering a team environment that values innovation, technological advancement and progressive approach to real estate. Our goal is to provide unparallelled service to our clients through a collaborative and forward-thinking atmosphere.

We are seeking a dynamic and detail-oriented Administrative Assistant to join our real estate team. The ideal candidate will be a proactive problem solver with exceptional communication skills and a keen eye for detail. This role is perfect for someone who thrives in a fast-paced team-oriented environment and is eager to contribute to the success of our innovative and technologically advanced company.

Key Responsibilities:

Provide comprehensive administrative support to the real estate team

Prepare and edit correspondence, communications and other documents

Handle incoming phone calls and emails directing them to the appropriate team members

Maintain electronic and paper filing systems

Utilize and manage real estate technology platforms and softwware

Performing general office duties such as managing mail and ordering supplies

Qualifications:

Proven administrative or assistant experience, preferably in the real estate industry

Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite

Experience with real estate software and technology platforms is a plus

Strong organizational and time management skills

Excellent verbal and written communication skills

Ability to work independently and as part of a team

High level of integrity, professionalism and confidentiality

What We Offer:

A supportive and collaborative team environment

Access to cutting-edge real estate technology

Full time, Competitive salary

Email your application and Resume to Audrey Benson at admin@rockieswest.com

PASSION FOR CANNABIS?

Career Opportunity Director of Public Works

Are you awesome? A team builder and creator of strong workplace culture whose project management skill and leadership abilities match your personality? If you are then the Village of Radium Hot Springs is looking for you!

The Village seeks an experienced Director of Public Works who can lead, develop, and mentor the Public Works Team into the future.

Radium is a fast-growing BC Resort Municipality with close access to skiing, trails, golf, hot springs, the Columbia River, and the BC backcountry.

In addition to your general awesomeness – and ability to work well as a member of a highfunctioning team – the ideal candidate will hold Applied Science Technologist or Professional Engineering Certification in British Columbia with a track record of success and organizational and cultural improvement in progressively senior roles – preferably in the local government sector. In return the Village offers a competitive salary ($100,000 to $115,000 annual range, depending on experience), comprehensive benefits including a defined benefit pension (BC’s Municipal Pension Plan), and superior work-life combination.

As a key member of the senior management team, and reporting to the Chief Administrative Officer, you will oversee the Village’s public works department (seven staff), including its water and sewer utilities, roads, parks, fleet, and facilities. You will provide guidance and strategic advice within the organization and be accountable for effective administration of the public works department of the Village including staff management and oversight, budget development, project management including design/design review and tendering, reporting, WorkSafeBC requirements, and Development Services department support including review of development proposals.

Desired knowledge includes:

• Excellent ability to manage and motivate staff

• Excellent understanding of municipal budgets and budget administration

• Excellent organizational and time management skills – able to work alone

• Excellent computer skills including Microsoft Office: Word, Excel, and Outlook. Must be able to track budgets and projects electronically

• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills and the ability to interact with people in a professional manner

• Ability to read blueprints, engineering plans, drawings, and sketches

• Demonstrated project management ability

• Experience creating and implementing policies and procedures

• Excellent understanding of municipal infrastructure and maintenance requirements and asset management

Personality is key! Awesome candidates should submit a resume and cover letter by Tuesday July 2,2024 to:

Adrian Bergles, Chief Administrative Officer Village of Radium Hot Springs cao@radiumhotsprings.ca

The Village of Radium Hot Springs thanks all applicants for their interest. Only applicants selected for an interview will be contacted.

Village of Radium Hot Springs

P.O. Box 340, 4836 Radium Blvd, Radium Hot Springs, B.C.

NOW HIRING

Part-Time and Full-Time Grounds Staff

Weekends & weekday shifts available Apply to terravistagm@gmail.com

Taynton Bay Electrical

Looking for experienced Electrician. Wages negotiable. Please forward resume to: cliff@taybay.ca or call Cliff : 250-342- 1355

In front of Canadian Tire is accepting resumes.

We are looking for a great individual to join our team as a BUDTENDER

The successful applicant will:

• Assist store management and work as a team with staff

• Perform all duties within the store, receiving, cash and customer service

• Work quickly and efficiently with attention to detail

• Be able to work weekends

• Be available to work days or evenings

• Take pride in great customer service - knowledge of Cannabis products an asset

• Training and education available

Must obtain Selling it Right Certification as required to work with cannabis. (Costs reimbursed). Must be 19 years+ to apply.

If you are interested in working in a fun and productive work environment with competitive wages, submit resume to: Bob Benvenuti, invermerecannabisstore@gmail.com or hand deliver to: Invermere Cannabis Store (in front of Canadian Tire) Attn: Bob Benvenuti

Starting rate based on experience. Opportunity for advancement,benefits and perks.

• Assist Store Management, and work as a team with staff

• Perform all duties within the store, receiving, cash and customer service

• Able to lift up to 30 lbs.

• Work quickly, efficiently, with attention to detail

• Have an eye for merchandising

• Be able to work independently

• Good customer service

• Training and education available

We offer professional and personal growth through educational opportunities. If you are interested in working in a fun productive environment submit resume to: Jennifer McLennan: gmjenliquor@gmail.com or hand deliver to Invermere Liquor Store, Attn: Jennifer McLennan

ACREAGE FOR SALE

ACREAGES FOR SALE

Last four acreages in Elkhorn Country Estates. 2.5 to 2.89 acre parcels. Individual wells, no building time commitment. Starting at $329,000 + GST For more information, contact Elkhorn Ranches: 250-342-1267 www.elkhornranches.com

The Columbia Valley Pioneer is currently accepting applications for a Sales Representative position. This role is ideal for individuals who are energetic, creative, and possess excellent listening and problem-solving skills. If you are a goal-oriented individual with an open mind to new ideas and previous sales experience, we encourage you to apply. The position is full-time with flexible hours, and compensation is based on experience. Must have a reliable vehicle.

Please contact Amanda Nason at 250-341-1111 or advertising@columbiavalleypioneer.com

Drop off resume at: #4A, 1014 8th Ave, Invermere

J.A Laird pupils host food, clothing drive

Columbia Valley Pioneer staff

Students at J.A. Laird Elementary School have learned that the world does not revolve around them, but they can change the world or at least make it a better place for others.

Ms. K. Daniele’s Grade 5-6 class is thinking about the less fortunate by hosting a food and clothing drive on Tuesday, June 25. Students are asked to bring in non-perishable food items such as canned goods and granola bars (but no home-made food, please) from now until next Tuesday. Members of the public are asked to do the same but only on June 25, and are requested to bring the donations to Ms. Daniele’s class instead of leaving them at the front office.

Student Charlie Pratschke told the

Pioneer that the class wants to help people who don’t have enough money to buy all the food (and clothing) they need. Clothing such as toques, gloves, hats, mittens and blankets will also be accepted to keep people warm next winter. All the food will be donated to the Columbia Valley Food Bank, and some of the clothing will go to Family Dynamix.

Pratschke said a lot of children these days have everything . . . food and clothes, but others don’t. “Sometimes kids (in school) throw half of their food (lunch) in the garbage . . . they just chuck it in the trash,” he lamented.

The student said the hope is to gather enough food to fill the shelves at the food bank and “speed up” the donation process.

The Regional District of East Kootenay (RDEK) Board of Directors is considering an application by Gerald and Richard Marzocco to amend the Lake Windermere OCP and the Columbia Valley Zoning Bylaw to accommodate an eight lot subdivision. The subject land is located at 879 Swansea Road in Windermere, as shown on the attached map. Bylaw No. 3322 cited as “Regional District of East Kootenay – Lake Windermere Official Community Plan Bylaw No. 2929, 2019 – Amendment Bylaw No. 14, 2024 (Windermere / Marzocco)” will amend the OCP designation of Parcel A (Explanatory Plan 7930) of Lot 1, District Lot 7567, Kootenay District & Parcel A (Explanatory Plan 7930) of Sublot 29. District Lot 4596, Kootenay District Plan X32, from SH, Small Holdings to R-SF, Residential Low Density. Bylaw No. 3323 cited as “Regional District of East Kootenay – Columbia Valley Zoning Bylaw No. 3255, 2023 – Amendment Bylaw No. 13, 2024 (Windermere / Marzocco)” will amend the zone designation of Parcel A (Explanatory Plan 7930) of Lot 1, District Lot 7567, Kootenay District & Parcel A (Explanatory Plan 7930) of Sublot 29. District Lot 4596, Kootenay District Plan X32, from SH-1, Small Holding Residential Zone to R-1 (A), Single Family Residential Zone. A public hearing will be held via Zoom webinar conference: Tuesday, July 3, 2024 at 6:00 pm.

The Board has delegated the holding of this hearing to the Directors for Electoral Areas F and the District of Invermere. If you believe that your interest in property is affected by the proposed Bylaws, you may prior to the hearing:

• inspect the Bylaws 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 Friday, June 28, 2024 at 4:30 pm, mail or email written submissions to the addresses shown below before Friday, June 28, 2024 at 4:30 pm;

• present verbal submissions at the public hearing.

You must pre-register in order to attend and provide verbal presentations or make comments at the hearing. The deadline to register is Friday, June 28, 2024 at 4:30 pm. Register in advance for this webinar: https://us02web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_r8MnZlnkQP-AEgPi1Vojfg or by visiting www.rdek.bc.ca (Meetings/Minutes, Meetings & Notices page).

Please note that a question and answer period will not occur during the Zoom webinar conference. You must address any questions relating to the bylaws to the Planning Technician prior to the above date. SUBMISSIONS CANNOT BE ACCEPTED AFTER THE PUBLIC HEARING.

All submissions will form part of the public record and will be published in a meeting agenda posted online. ersonal contact information such as phone and email will be removed from written

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 Bylaws. 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.

The public is asked to help the Grade 5-6 class at J.A. Laird Elementary School collect food for the less fortunate on Tuesday, June 25.

PHOTO VEJAA/GETTY IMAGES

FAITH

Supporting queer interfaith

By Brent Woodard Windermere Valley Shared Ministry

In celebration of June as Pride Month, I would like to share a resolution that unanimously passed on May 25th, 2024 at the Annual Meeting of the Anglican Church of the Diocese of the Kootenays.

Resolution to Support the Queer Interfaith Coalition

Columbia Valley Churches

The Queer Interfaith Coalition was formed in late 2023 in response to an increase in homophobic and anti-trans* rhetoric. The Queer Interfaith Coalition is a group of religious leaders and laypeople from Jewish, Muslim, Christian and other backgrounds. The QIC seeks to reclaim the word “religious” to mean a word of faith, of safety, of inclusion and especially of love. As well, they seek to acknowledge that every human being is born in the image of God and that God’s love has always been and will always be inclusive.

On the 14th of March, the Queer Interfaith Coalition launched an open letter to the Canadian government demanding action in response to the rise in homophobic and anti-trans rhetoric. In this open letter they write: “We affirm that the shared understanding of our religious duty is to dedicate ourselves to advo-

cating for the full and comprehensive human rights of all members of the 2SLGBTQIA+ community; promoting mental health, realizing the rights of 2SLGBTQIA+ children and youth, and ending gender-based violence.”

The Anglican Church of Canada prides itself on inclusion, and has undertaken significant work to throw the doors of welcome open to the 2SLGBTQIA+ community in all its fullness. It is now time to go further. To sign onto the open letter to the Canadian government which states, “We believe that every person is holy, every love and life is sacred, and that our faiths invite us to be more of who we are, not less. We call upon all people of faith to join us in denouncing the damaging heresy that some people are more deserving of equality than others.”

Therefore, be it resolved that the Anglican Church of Canada, the Ecclesiastical Province of British Columbia, and the Diocese of Kootenay, encourage each lay person, deacon, priest and bishop sign the Open letter reinforcing that the Anglican Church of Canada is a safe place for the 2SLGBTQIA+ community to be. And that we will stand shoulder to shoulder with our 2SLGBTQIA+ brothers and sisters who are at risk, and thus we commit to creating and advocating for religious communities that are reflective of these sacred tenets of intersectional equity so that all 2SLGBTQIA+ people can flourish.

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

Minister: Brent Woodard Sundays at 10:30 am, in-person or on Zoom. For the Zoom link, please visit our website at wvsm.ca. 110 - 7th Ave. in Invermere.

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

The recent Columbia Valley Pride Festival in Invermere brought many people together to celebrate gender identity and inclusivity.

PHOTOS NICOLE IVERS