Columbia Valley Pioneer - June 27, 2024

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Bruno’s Plumbing Service

Windermere Elementary School took part in a special ‘Indigenous Plant Walk’ last week. Students in Kindergarten, Grades 1, 3 and 4 walked within a two-block radius and learned about more than 15 Indigenous plants and some of their medicinal properties. All of the students had the opportunity to drink homemade dandelion tea and some said it instantly cured their cough. Heather Fischbuch, owner of Flourishing Health and a doctor of Chinese medicine, led the walk and taught the pupils how local plants can enhance their

PHOTOS SUBMITTED

VALLEY NEWS

Canal Flats daycare gets funding boost

The planned expansion of Headwaters Academy daycare centre in Canal Flats got a big financial boost last week.

The provincial and federal government will contribute nearly $2.4 million through the ChildCare BC New Spaces Fund, and the Columbia Basin Trust (CBT) will kick in another $200,000 for a total of $2.6 million.

The daycare expansion is part of the village’s planned affordable housing-medical technology hub project (reported on previously in the Pioneer). Headwaters Academy currently has 40 childcare spots; the expansion will add a second building and 60 additional daycare spots to Headwaters.

The new Headwaters building will also include accommodation on the upper floors that will be specifically for early childhood educators working in the daycare.

Plans don’t stop there, however,

and Headwaters — which is run by the nonprofit Canal Flats Attainable Housing and Childcare Society — is aiming to expand its reach to two additional areas outside of Canal Flats in the next two years. These too will be done in what Headwaters calls its “campus-based approach.”

“This expansion aims to create career progression opportunities, reduce operating costs, and enhance our branding and standards, ensuring longterm sustainability,” said Headwaters executive director Ashley Nielsen.

Construction on the expansion should begin this month, with the new building set to open by September 2025.

“This expansion marks a significant milestone in our commitment to supporting families and children,” said Canal Flats Mayor Mark Doherty.

“These new facilities will not only provide much-needed childcare spaces but will also contribute to the vitality of our downtown core, making Canal Flats an even more attractive place to live, work,

and raise a family.”

“This exciting expansion means more families and kids will have a spot in a high-quality daycare right in the heart of their community,” said federal Minister of Families, Children and Social Development Jenna Sudds in a press release.

“These expanded child care spaces at Canal Flats will benefit families and provide wonderful opportunities for children to grow, learn and play in a

safe environment,” added B.C. Minister of State for Child Care Mitzi Dean.

In an effort to increase its visibility and reputation, Headwaters Academy will also sponsor the Canal Flats Arena, which is being renamed as the Headwaters Academy Arena.

“This sponsorship underscores our commitment to the community and aligns with our mission to foster growth, health, and sustainability in Canal Flats and beyond,” said Nielsen.

RCMP REPORT

Home Hardware truck stolen

This past week, June 17 to 24 the Columbia Valley RCMP responded to 91 calls for service. The following is a summary of some of the files our officers responded to:

On June 21 police received a call from a boater that had observed a bear swimming in Lake Windemere. The caller was concerned for both the bear and other users of the lake. Police made patrols, however, it was learned that the bear, after completing his refreshing swim on the hot afternoon, returned to the woods without further incident.

On June 22 at 1:35 a.m. the Invermere Home

Hardware compound was broken into and a yellow flat deck truck was stolen with a forklift on the back. The vehicles were located and recovered in the Cranbrook RCMP detachment area. Police currently have a suspect for the theft and are continuing the investigation. If anyone has information regarding this event, please contact Cst Desjardins with the Columbia Valley RCMP at 250-342-9292.

On June 22 at 2 p.m. police were called for two hikers who had disregarded a “Trail ends here” sign below the carving in the canyon lookout just east of Radium Hot Springs. The two males were too scared to make their own way back down. Columbia Valley Search and Rescue were called and successfully extracted the males.

District eyeing EMP school replacement

Rocky Mountain School District No. 6 is working on a long-range facilities plan that will see Eileen Madson Primary School replaced with a new $28 million facility if approved by the Ministry of Education and Child Care.

“As exciting as it sounds, we’re still at the mercy of the province (for funding),” Secretary Treasurer Alan Rice told the Pioneer

“There is no guarantee this will come to fruition,” he added, noting if the ministry does approve the capital plan request, it will take several years before they see a new school.

Rice referred to the long-range plan that lists a number of schools under the microscope relating to current standards, efficiency, enrolment, capacity, and condition.

A report states that the Rocky Mountain district has not had a new or replacement school built in more than 30 years (since David Thompson Secondary School in 1994).

“Overall, the district’s total enrolment has been reasonably stable in recent years and is generally projected to remain stable or even decline slightly in the coming 10 years,” the report adds.

It goes on to say that no school closures or reductions in school capacities are recommended over this time period.

Eileen Madson Primary has been the district’s highest priority for replacement under the capital plan, with the report saying the school is functioning over its intended operating capacity and that the space is not flexible or suitable for non-primary grades.

Rice told the Pioneer that Eileen Madson’s classrooms currently represent an “outdated learning style” at 60 square metres, adding that the new standard is 80 square metres. So, the plan is to bring this learning space into the 21st century, he said.

The idea is to incorporate the school’s two portables into the new facility on land next to the existing building. The other development that has already broken ground is the new child care centre destined for the property.

While all of this sounds great, Rice is not holding his breath for the new school because there are “a lot of hoops to jump through.” He said it is expected the ministry will spend the majority of its money in the Lower Mainland to address “seismic issues” and “enrolment pressures” at those schools.

Rice said that a “wild card” exists with the impending election that could change things as far as the plan goes.

PAC chair Katrina Chapman said they have been made aware of the plans for the new school but not much in the way of details or timelines.

“We look forward to more information when it becomes available and still love our little school,” she told the Pioneer

“An increase in childcare spots for pre-Kindergarten kids will also be a welcome addition,” Chapman said.

If the district does get approval for a new Eileen Madson school, Rice said the old facility could be utilized for other uses in the community.

The facilities plan also mentions keeping an eye on the upcoming needs of Edgewater Elementary, Martin Morigeau Elementary, J.A. Laird, Windermere Elementary, and David Thompson Secondary School.

pdqtinting.com Web: LLumar.com

Thank You Vivian, John, and Edgewater Seniors for the Sunday Tea Party. Thank You to our ladies who baked and decorated the delicious cakes. A huge Thank You to all the family, friends, and former students who attended...the reminiscing was delightful! Sincerely, Wanda Seel & Theresa Rogers

This is the official notice of the Hospice Society of the Columbia Valley’s AGM. The Annual General Meeting of the Hospice Society of the Columbia Valley will be held Thursday, July 4th, at 6:00 pm at Christ Church Trinity, 110-7th Avenue, Invermere, BC. Anyone can attend the AGM, but in order to vote you must have purchased a membership at least 30 days prior to the meeting.

Become a Friend of Hospice and support our Services & Programs by purchasing a $25 membership at the office or online at www.hospicesocietycv.com.

25% off ALL annuals, veggie starts, planters and hanging baskets.

To the grads

Dear grads,

You’ve reached another rite of passage. You feel the excitement, the fear, the optimism, and the trepidation for what lies ahead.

No worries, that’s normal; you’re just growing up and finally reaching adulthood. In other words, reality. Yes, that thing you can’t escape unless you lock yourself in your room all day and play Fortnite or bury yourself in Snapchat.

Don’t compare yourself to other people’s “stories,” just live your own life with sincerity. Social media would just love to run (and ruin) your life, but don’t let it. And AI would love nothing more than to take away your humanity because that’s all you’ve got; it’s what makes you real.

Your comfort zone will protect you like it always has, but it won’t let you find the opportunities you deserve, the doors that you were meant to open, the treasure at the end of the rainbow.

Don’t know what to do? Follow your passion. Is it your dream or your parents’? And when you are traversing that path, help others who may have fallen down on theirs. By now you have learned that the world doesn’t revolve around who you see in the mirror every day; it revolves around people supporting each other and lifting the burden of the less fortunate.

Tunnel vision will make you go blind to what’s really going on. You’ve learned to read, but you need to read between the lines.

Don’t become a tragic headline: ‘Speed, alcohol takes young life.’ Your parents’ grief will never end. And never, ever think you are alone in your troubles; there is always someone to talk to, there is always another solution. You will tell white lies (everyone does), maybe even black ones. You may even cheat, but don’t cheat a friend (or a stranger), and most of all don’t cheat yourself.

Learn from your mistakes, and admit when you are wrong. An apology should never be the hardest thing you have to say. Practise it in the mirror because you’ll be saying it a lot.

And when you’re rich and famous, don’t forget who helped get you there. If you cross that thin line into homelessness, keep your head up and try not to point fingers; borrow a shovel and dig yourself out again. Try to think positive because the negative will follow you around like a lost pup if you allow it. And remember, good things come to those who wait.

You’ve heard it many times before — go out and change the world, make a difference. Well, you don’t really have to, but it’s cool if you do. You make a difference every day simply by getting up in the morning and going to work, or watering the flowers. Nothing is more true when your elders say “life is what you put into it.” You can take the road less travelled or the one heavily trodden to see what lies at the end. Don’t need a crystal ball; that would just ruin the surprise.

Kinsmen all set for fireworks

It’s been over 30 years since the Kinsmen Club of Windermere Valley started the annual Kinsmen Canada Day fireworks that will blast off at midnight on Sunday, June 30, and again, record crowds are predicted as a show for all ages will light up the sky over Lake Windermere.

The Kinsmen would like to thank all of our local sponsors and partners – the Government of Canada through the department of Heritage Canada, the District of Invermere, CPKC, Invermere Fire Rescue, RDEK, Royal Canadian Legion Branch 71 Invermere, and especially the community who support this celebration.

The fireworks display will blast off once the trains have passed safely through the blasting area. Please note there may be a slight delay.

The fireworks will be set off just east of Eddie Mountain Memorial Arena, and we would like to thank CPKC for generously allowing us to use their property as our launch pad. Also a huge thanks to Invermere Fire Rescue for being on standby to keep us all safe.

The best places to see the show are beside the

arena, Lakeview Road on the east side of Lake Windermere, James Chabot Beach at the north end of the lake, or from one of the many boats that anchor on the lake each year. And of course, your family home and yard with a view of Mount Swansea.

We ask that if you enjoy the fireworks, consider a donation to help fund next year’s event. E-transfers can be sent to invermerefireworks@gmail.com and we thank you in advance for your contribution. If we all donated a toonie, this event would be funded for years, so please lend a hand; this is for everyone.

Also, if you have photos of the fireworks, or of your group having fun watching the festivities, please share them on our Facebook and Instagram accounts - @ kinsmenclubofwindermerevalley

On behalf of the Kinsmen Club of Windermere Valley, we look forward to seeing you at midnight on June 30 for another great show to kick off Canada Day 2024 in the Columbia Valley.

Kinsmen Club of Windermere Valley Fireworks Committee

Seniors cite affordability as big challenge

Submitted

A new report released by the Office of the Seniors Advocate reaffirms B.C. seniors on fixed incomes are disproportionately impacted by the high cost of living and unable to absorb increased costs for housing, food, medical equipment, mobility aids and other necessities for healthy aging.

Seniors Advocate Dan Levitt says seniors are a diverse group with each person being shaped by their unique life experiences, needs, culture, health, language and abilities. However, the vast majority are worried about affording food and other expenses, where and how they will live as they grow older, and accessing health care when they can no longer drive to medical appointments.

“Many of the seniors I met are taking care of other seniors in their communities and giving so much of themselves to help their friends and neighbours. They feel there is already a shortage of supports and services and are worried about the future.”

Levitt undertook a ‘listening tour’ in April travelling throughout the province to meet with seniors in both rural and urban communities and hear about their issues and concerns. He also met with local seniors’ service providers, volunteers and other stakeholders to learn about the gaps, barriers and suggestions for improvement as well as what is working well for older people.

“Long-term care waitlists in B.C. continue to grow and we are not increasing units at a rate to keep pace with the growing seniors’ population. One of the areas my office will be looking into is access and availability of long-term care. We want to have a solid understanding of what must be done to ensure the most vulnerable seniors in our province have access to publicly-subsidized long-term care close to their home communities when they need it,” says Levitt.

The report recommends government take the following immediate actions:

• Provide immediate financial relief for low-income senior renters by redesigning the Shelter Aid for Elderly Rent-

To Penny, with love

Columbia Valley Pioneer staff

People can’t stop thinking about the impact that Penny Powers had on her community.

This was evident last week during a ‘Town Hall’ meeting in Wilmer where the Volunteer of the Year for Area G was honoured posthumously with a special tribute.

“Penny was a truly remarkable woman who gave so much of her time and heart to so many people, organizations and causes,” said Area G director Roberta Schnider. “We are honoured to pay tribute to her and to her incredible legacy of giving in our valley,”

Powers was a passionate volunteer for a multitude of organizations including the Toby Creek Nordic Ski Club, Banff Film Fest, ‘Babes on Blades’ Women’s Hockey League, the Chamber of Commerce, and a variety of tourism

committees. She was a valued member of the Edgewater Fire Department and also sat on the local FireSmart committee.

Instrumental in the initiation of the Lake Windermere Whiteway and a volunteer on the committee for the project for over a decade, Powers was there to act as a ribbon cutter when the trail earned its Guinness Book of World Records recognition.

“Penny was known and admired throughout the Columbia Valley for her substantial contributions to the spirit and culture of the people. She made herself available to anyone who was looking for support to help improve health and wellness in the Columbia Valley,” Schnider added.

Powers, who passed away earlier this year, was recognized on June 18 with her husband and children accepting the award on her behalf.

ers (SAFER) program so that seniors’ rents are 30 per cent or less of their income and rent ceilings are adjusted to reflect the current reality of the rental market.

• Increase the amount of BC Seniors Supplement and index the supplement to inflation consistent with other government income supports for seniors like CPP, OAS and GIS.

• Eliminate the daily rate charge for home support that places a financial barrier for seniors to get the help they need to live independently in their homes for as long as possible.

• The National Advisory Committee on Immunization (NACI) recommends people over 50 years old receive the shingles vaccine. The province should

provide a shingles vaccine program at no cost to B.C. seniors.

• Develop and implement a cross-ministry strategy and action plan for seniors with key targets and performance measures with annual public reporting on performance.

Levitt says it is estimated that one in four British Columbians will be over 65 by 2036, which is more seniors as a proportion of the population than at any other time in our history.

“It is essential that we act now to make sure the services all of us will need as we grow older are comprehensive, coordinated and available in our communities.”

Read the report here: https://www. seniorsadvocatebc.ca/reports/.

Seniors are struggling with affordability that is preventing healthy aging, according to BC’s Seniors Advocate.

Penny Powers’ husband, children and parents recently accepted the Volunteer of the Year award on her behalf from Electoral Area G Director Roberta Schnider (second from right). PHOTO SUBMITTED

Elder celebrates nature book launch

Last week the Outdoor Learning Store hosted a digital celebration for the launch of ?Akisq’nuk elder Alfred Joseph’s new book ‘Ktunaxa Nature Walk: Alfred Joseph’s Walkabout’.

The book includes 150 Ktunaxa words or phrases for local Columbia Valley plants or natural features, along with photos and QR codes. Readers can scan the QR codes with their phones to listen to an audio recording of Alfred pronouncing each word or phrase.

The virtual celebration for the book launch was held on Tuesday, June 18. Joseph explained to those joining in digitally about his decades of trying to help preserve the Ktunaxa language, stretching all the way back to the 1970s and 1980s.

Back then “the challenge was to keep interest in the language . . . there weren’t a lot of people wanting to learn it,” he said. “I was very concerned about the language.”

A while back, he went out on a

walking trail near his home. He began to write down the Ktunaxa words for the plants and natural phenomenon he saw. Eventually he had enough words or phrases to fill four or five sheets of paper.

He showed this “walkabout paper” to his Tuesday night Ktunaxa language class.

“The group decided this would make a good book,” explained Joseph.

Invermere resident Nadine Hale, who passed away earlier this month, was a student in the class and took a leading role in creating the book.

There was an initial printing of 200 copies, and then a second printing of 1,000 more. Of those, 800 have already ended up in the hands of people keen to enhance their understanding of Ktunaxa language.

The book is small enough that it can be easily taken on a trip into the woods and is purposefully made from durable materials.

“These are meant to be taken with you when you’re out hiking or on your camping trip,” said Joseph, adding that

the intention of the book “is to preserve and make our Ktunaxa people realize the importance of our language.”

The Tuesday night language group has expressed interest in creating a second book about birds and animals, although Joseph said he wasn’t sure if it will happen or not.

Joseph noted that right now there is

a lot of activity happening around Ktunaxa language and said “I hope it continues.”

During the first part of the celebration, Joseph paid tribute to Hale, noting her keen interest and dedicated efforts to promote Ktunaxa language learning. “She really tried to make things fun and acceptable to everyone,” said Joseph.

?Akisq’nuk language teacher Alfred Joseph has launched a nature book based on his “Walkabout.” FILE PHOTO

Happy Pride Month to Everyone! You may have seen the windows around town – the Columbia Valley Chamber of Commerce worked with Columbia Valley Pride and volunteers from the Youth Hub to paint the town rainbow! Columbia Valley Pride has worked hard to create an event which grows bigger and better every year, and the Columbia Valley Chamber of Commerce is happy to support them as a member. I had the opportunity recently to attend an online information session put together by Canada’s 2SLGBTQI+ Chamber of Commerce (CGLCC) about their Rainbow Registered Program: “Rainbow Registered is a national accreditation for 2SLGBTQI+ friendly businesses and organizations. When you see a Rainbow Registered symbol, you know the business or organization meets a stringent set of standards to

OUT OF OFFICE…

Pride Month

ensure 2SLGBTQI+ customers feel safe, welcomed, and accepted”.

The 2SLGBTQI+ community is tight-knit and loyal, and they tend to be discerning travellers and consumers – a demographic that is a valuable asset to the economy of the Columbia Valley. I was interested to learn a few statistics: tourists in this demographic trend towards a higher income bracket, and plan more frequent trips. Unlike other groups, the number one determining factor for where they will travel is Safety, and once their trust is earned 2SLGBTQI+ travellers will often champion businesses and communities alike.

I am excited for the Columbia Valley Chamber of Commerce to achieve their Rainbow Registry status – I can’t believe I’m admitting this, but I kinda love paperwork. This is the sort of thing that

I am super excited to get on board with, and then hopefully I’ll be able to share my experience with members of the Chamber who are interested in achieving their own Rainbow Registration. I hope to do an info session covering the benefits, preparation for, and pit-falls of the program; please get in touch with me if you would be interested in an event like this: communications@ cvchamber.ca. If you are interested in the Rainbow Registered program (you are still reading, after all!), and the steps towards accreditation, I will be writing about my experience with the program, and the steps and documentation that are required. Stay tuned!

Thursday, June 27

• 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: Seniors Tea. Invermere Public Library. Join us for a cup of tea and a chat on the 2nd & 4th Thursday of each month. All welcome!

• 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-7:30pm: Newcomer & Community Connection Café. Invermere Library. Meet new people, learn about other cultures, create a craft and share life experiences.  Free program.  All are welcome. 250-409-4251 or wvcoordinator@cbal.org to register or for more information.

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: 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 28

• 6:00pm-10:00pm: Square Dance for the Wild. Columbia Valley Centre, Wildsight. Doors open at 6pm and the dance goes from 7:30 – 10:00 pm. Leslie Gotfrit, Dance Caller extraordinaire, with the live music of The Hip To Be Square Collective band. Smokehouse 93 will be serving up food and there will be a cash bar to keep your thirst quenched with alcoholic and non-alcoholic options. There will be door prizes and a 50/50 draw. TICKETS: wildsight.ca/events/square-dance-for-the-wildfundraiser/

• 6:00pm-8:00pm: Music on Main. It’s time to get groovy at Music on Main! Running alongside Market on Main, this event showcases talented local bands and artists: this week is ‘Uncovered Band’. 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. 4:00pm-8:00pm: Market on Main. Radium Hot Springs Main Street - NEW location! Join us every summer Friday evening from 4-8 pm. on Main Street West. Our market is home to artisans, crafters, farmers, bakers, and more, from Radium and the Columbia Valley. You’ll find homemade and homegrown products, including baked goods, jams, jewelry, essential oils, paintings, candles, and much more. Plus, groove to live music at Music on Main, Fridays 6-8 pm.

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

6:30pm-8:30pm: Pickleball. Invermere Curling Club. Novice Play. Saturday, June 29

• 11:00am-2:00pm: BBQ Fundraiser for ICAN. Home Hardware. All the fixings will be there for you to dress your Bratwurst or Sausage the way you like AND you can get a pop or water for a minimum $5 donation. Come out and support the cats and kittens in ICAN's care. Generously supported by Home Hardware, Konig Fine Meats, Invermere Bakery and No Frills.

• 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. DUPR play.

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

Sunday, June 30

• 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, July 1

• 11:00am-12:00pm: Canada Day Parade. Main Street Invermere. The Annual Canada Day parade is presented by the Invermere Legion Branch #71 and the District of Invermere.  We look forward to your participation this year!

• 11:00am-11:00pm: Canada Day at Fairmont Hot Springs Resort. Celebrate Canada Day at Fairmont Hot Springs Resort! Join us for a day full of fun and celebration! Schedule of Events:

• 11am - 4pm: Games in the pool and park

• 2pm - 5pm: Live music in the park with Rockinomix

• 2pm - 5pm: Face painting in the park

• 3:45pm: Cake cutting

• 4pm - 9pm: Lawn games in the park 8:30pm - 11pm: Live music at Mulligans

Draw, And so much more...

• 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-8:30pm: Pickleball. Invermere Curling Club. Novice Play.

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

• Dusk: Movies in the Mountains. Pothole Park. Enjoy Movies in the Mountains at Pothole Park, Downtown Invermere for a variety of free movie screenings every Monday Night in July and August! Bring a blanket or a chair, cash concession, movie starts at dark. Movies are presented by the District of Invermere. Movies start at dark (time fluctuates each week).

Tuesday, July 2

• 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. 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, July 3

• 6:30pm-8:00pm: Locals Live Concert Series. Pothole Park. Live music returns to Pothole Park this summer! The District of Invermere presents the free concert series “Locals Live.” This live music series features nine local and out of town bands! Join us every Wednesday in July & August in Pothole Park from 6:30pm-8:00pm for a rocking good time! Bring your own lawn chair, blanket & take out food!

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

• 10:00am-11:00am: Senior's Yoga Columbia Valley Centre, $2 dropin.

• 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.

• 11:30am-12:00pm: Story Time. Radium Library - preschool & all ages.

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.  3:00pm-6:30pm: Wednesday AgriPark Farmer’s Market. Crossroads next to Chamber of Commerce Offices. Local Farmers Market with Live Music. Featuring Farm Fresh Produce; local meat; eggs; and honey. Chefs, artisans, and bakers come to sell their goods in the historic facebook@agriparkfarmers

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

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

Fun Entertainment and Activities, Food Trucks, Artisan Market, 50/50

Priority plan outlines infrastructure projects

The District of Invermere has been busy in recent years with several big infrastructure improvement projects — notably badly needed water and sewer upgrades — and more are in the works.  Council received its infrastructure priority plan from planning consultants Urban Systems Ltd. during a recent committee of the whole meeting. The plan outlines major future infrastructure priorities for Invermere in the near term, medium term, and long term.

The near-term priorities (given a one-to-five-year time horizon in the plan) include replacing the Fort Point Bridge (which has been the subject of several Pioneer reports in the past); raising the height of the Paddy Ryan Reservoir dams and spillways; and four water, sewer or road upgrade projects — a sewer trunk main along the railway tracks on the northwest side of Dorothy Lake; a new water pump at Mount Nelson Athletic Park (MNAP); water pipe and road improvements along main street (7th Avenue) between 13th Street and 14th Street (from Disfunction Junction to the dental clinic); and sewer and road improvements for the unpaved stretch of 9th Avenue immediately to the west of Pothole Park.

Invermere chief administrative officer Andrew Young explained that raising the height of the dams at Paddy Ryan Reservoir (there are three dams in total) and upgrading the spillway is being done in response to climate change concerns and the associated risk of heavy rain events.

“We depend on the Paddy Ryan Reservoir as part of our water supply,” said Young.

The near-term priority water, sewer and road projects are similar to those undertaken over the past few years along 13th Avenue. Although the nearterm priority projects are necessary, none are as urgent as the 13th Avenue upgrades.

The sewer pipe along the northwest side of Dorothy Lake “is one of the pinch points in the sewer system,” said Young. “It is an undersized length of pipe and it is a long pipe . . . the great thing is that it will be easy to get at — we don’t have to dig up the street.”

The plan lists three medium-term priority projects (given a five-to-10year time horizon): replacing the Paddy Ryan Reservoir water line; improving lift station three on the eastern side of the Fort Point neighbourhood; and replacing the Castlestone bridge.

There are also six longer-term priority projects (given a 10-to-20-year time

Columbia Extreme Contracting

horizon): improving lift station one at Kinsmen Beach; improving lift station two in Fort Point; upgrading sewer pipes and the road on the northernmost end of 10th Avenue; upgrading sewer and water pipes and the roads on 9th Avenue, 10th Avenue and 11th Avenue in the Wilder neighbourhood; similar upgrades in the southern tip of Fort Point; and at the northern end of Fort Point along Lakeview Lane.

The cost of the projects in the oneto-five-year time horizon should average out to $2.3 million per year, but that total will be partly offset by the 13th Avenue upgrades that have already been completed (which cost $5 million).

“It is also hoped that as additional

projects happen that some of the cost could be covered by developers instead of by the district alone,” said Young.

Invermere councillor Gerry Taft added that the order of prioritization could be tweaked if development partners come forward or with grant funding.

The near-term priorities are “relatively affordable and relatively easy to understand in terms of prioritization” said Taft.

“The further away the time horizon gets, the more the priorities may adjust. Once you go beyond the five-to-10-year time horizon, there’s more uncertainty about when exactly those projects may happen.”

• Falling, bucking and tree removal

• Mulching with FTX 140 Mulcher

• Controlled pile burning

• Wood splitting

• Brushing

• Tree skidding and small logging

Volunteers Needed

Windermere Valley Minor Hockey Association makes it possible for kids in our community to engage in sport to promote health and wellbeing.

The WVMHA is presently recruiting for several directors, including a Referee in Chief, Social Media/Website Director, and Female Development Coordinator. If interested, please contact: president.wvmha@gmail.com

Screenshot from Invermere council documents showing upcoming infrastructure priority projects given a oneto-five-year timeline (upgrades at Paddy Ryan Reservoir not shown on this image).

Mosaic arts festival returns after hiatus

back up and running post pandemic, so to have a tent-pole event like this return is great,” Carrick to the Pioneer.

The Mountain Mosaic Festival of the Arts is back after a nearly half-decade hiatus.

The free, fun, family-friendly festival used to be a staple of Canada Day celebrations in the Columbia Valley, right up until the COVID-19 pandemic hit and threw the local arts and culture scene — along with everything else in the world — upside down.

The past few years have seen most major sports, entertainment and arts and cultural events return to the calendars and this year that includes the Mosaic Festival.

“It’s a celebration of all things arts and culture in the Columbia Valley,” said Columbia Valley Arts Council (CV Arts) board member Patrick Carrick.

The District of Invermere approached CV Arts several months ago and asked if the group could revive the popular festival, so a few members of the nonprofit got their heads together and came up with a plan to bring the event back.

“It’s really exciting. CV Arts has done a good job trying to get things

“It will be a great and energetic way to celebrate on July 1.”

The festival is set for that Monday from noon to 3 p.m., immediately following the Canada Day parade in downtown Invermere. It will be held at the green space near Pynelogs Cultural Centre.

If you’re taking in the Canada Day parade, attending the festival couldn’t be easier — once the parade has passed by, you simply and quite literally can follow it along main street (7th Avenue), down to its eventual end at Kinsmen Beach and — presto — you’re right next to Pynelogs and the festival. The event features plenty of games and activities.

Black Star Studios will be on hand creating a community mural on an enormous canvas, which all are invited to help make.

There will be face painting, an inflatable carnival, the Columbia Valley Metis Association, an artisan’s market, food trucks, an outdoor art exhibit by Purcell Mountain Painters Gallery, and community drumming with Rhythm by Nature.

There’s also a full lineup of live music from local bands including Blitzen Coast, Tryg Strand, Oin, and the Second Winds Brass Band.

After a half-decade hiatus, the green space by Pynelogs Cultural Centre will once again be full of family-friendly fun,

Cattle ranchers seek help from RDEK

Cattle ranchers are feeling like ‘David’ as ‘Goliath’ is threatening their industry, according to a member of the Waldo Stockbreeders and Kootenay Livestock Association.

Randy Reay expressed this concern to the Regional District of East Kootenay and asked the board for help during a presentation on June 14.

“Families feel threatened . . . the world seems a mess and is going downhill,” he said, noting that ranching is a shrinking industry as seen by the significant reduction in head of cattle.

Reay said the small industry of livestock producers is competing with the tourism and mining sector. “Talk about Goliath, we are the David.”

The rancher stated the livestock industry cannot exist without Crown rangeland, which he calls “scarcer than hen’s teeth.” He noted that agricultural use of Crown land has many benefits including wildfire prevention since cattle grazing significantly reduces that risk.

Reay expressed another concern over the B.C. government’s support of the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples. Contrary to what some argue, the rancher said the industry cannot allow eight per cent of the population to be given “veto” power to cancel business operations that depend on

Crown land for survival. He noted the legislation is being used to give Indigenous Peoples first right of refusal over land decisions, which is “unfair.”

Reay said all three levels of government tend to say how important the ranching industry is but never follow through with their promises.

With that, he asked the RDEK board for its support, starting with the re-establishment of the Agriculture Advisory Committee which it previously dissolved for unknown reasons.

Reay also asked directors to consider a bylaw to require all new subdivisions on Crown land to fence these properties. He said improper fencing is a safety issue for livestock and the public, noting that ranchers don’t want to see more fatal consequences when cattle wander onto highways.

The final “ask” is to assist ranchers in lobbying the provincial government to restore grazing opportunities where wildfire is a threat.

During question period, Reay was asked what was the impact on ranching regionally, relating to the concerns he has been raising.

The rancher said there is a lot of high elevation grazing where moisture levels are significant, adding that 50 per cent of the grazing is lower elevation impacted by dry conditions.

“It’s important that we be good stewards of the land base . . . there is lots of area of forage not being utilized (that should be utilized).”

Reay acknowledged that sometimes people and cattle don’t get along, but work is being done to control that, such as reducing livestock access to lakes. He said more work has to be done to regularly seed areas after logging is conducted in low elevation blocks. “That means more grass for elk, deer and cattle — it’s a no brainer.”

One RDEK director told Reay they will look at why the agriculture committee was dropped and if there is an opportunity to resurrect it. But he said creating a bylaw dealing with subdivision fencing and covenants “can be problematic.”

Reay said they hope to restructure the committee for more representation to address some land tenures that aren’t being utilized for grazing.

RDEK board chair Rob Gay said they will meet with provincial ministers if a meeting is approved at the Union of BC Municipalities Convention. He noted the previous agriculture committee was dissolved because the board was having difficulty getting members, and it was “frustrating” that the provincial Agricultural Land Commission was “not listening to our input.” Gay said livestock grazing for fire prevention is something the RDEK is looking at under its FireSmart principles.

Long-time cattle rancher Franz Feldmann, chair of the Windermere Valley Rural Range Patrol, has been advocating for more use of livestock as a solution to manage the damaging impacts of wildfire.

David Thompson Secondary School Graduates of 2024

Wishing

David Thompson Secondary School Graduates of 2024

Renz Alexandrei Abril
Lucian Kinsey
Samuel Anderson
Payton Kruger
Marguerite Blanchard
Alisha Malfet
Rebecca Davis
Lylah McAffer
Virginia Denchuk
Alanna Meadus
Ryan Dixon
Madeleine Mitchell
Enya Elliston
Harley Murray
Emersynn Farrell
Teagan Pike
Taytum Frocklage
Kayley Rehaume
Alex Hopkins
Daniel Reiter
Zosia Horvat Hannah Johnson Nevaeh Jones
Jaxson Karl Isaiah Kinsey

David Thompson Secondary School Graduates of 2024

Retiree thanks pupils for ‘teaching’ her

A retiring educator in Invermere may be the first to admit that her pupils actually taught her how to teach when she began her career at David Thompson Secondary School.

Andrea Dunlop recalls teaching in a portable in the parking lot of DTSS and is so grateful to her first groups of Grade 8 sudents.

“You guys taught me how to teach and I was able to do it without the judgment. I had a lot to learn. The most important lesson was that I wasn’t teaching French, I was teaching students.”

Now, after 29 years, she is saying goodbye.

When she started teaching there was no Internet, no computers, and no emails. “We had to use textbooks and we watched current events on TV in our classrooms.”

To contact parents, teachers had to telephone after work when families were at home, and when you called Canal Flats, it was long distance.

With a chuckle, Dunlop fondly reminisces about those phone calls.

“The student would pick up the phone, you would ask to speak to their parents and you would hear all sorts

of yelling in the background before the parent would pick up. I could hear the child insisting that nothing had happened at school that day; they had done nothing wrong. Of course I was phoning to say how well they were doing in French, but the most conniving parents didn’t let the child know that and would make shocked noises and glare at their child while I was saying positive things on the line.”

Dunlop told the Pioneer how proud she was to have such a strong French program at DTSS, and that students are able to write internationally recognized exams and compete for bilingual positions.

“I loved taking our small town kids to Montreal and Quebec. We had so much fun. You guys always made me laugh. There were a few of you still in this town who I caught smoking cigars on Saint Catherine Street and sneaking off and getting tattoos! I thought for sure I would be fired when we got back home.”

Invermere’s high school has been Dunlop’s home for decades. “With all the other changes in my life, in the world, the kids and the staff have always been there. They are kind, caring, intelligent and generally pretty entertaining. Finding a new routine is going to be challenging.”

David Thompson Secondary School Graduates of 2024

Emma Barr Megan Bell
Hannah Bentley
Jane Beyak
Teigan Bixby
Anna Borysova Blayke Butler
Kayla Charette
Owen Christy
Landon Dales Adele Davies
Gilian Deang
Eva Difrancesco
ZoÎ Donovan
Vanessa Cortat
Anika Rievaj Gaige Smith
Tehya Tilley Cole Vander Vinne Tobias Andruschuk
Carmynn Doucette Ava Dubreuil
Sahara Eccles
Dylan Gray Aivian Harder

Cherished mentors

A teacher from DTSS has come full circle — graduating from Invermere’s high school, becoming a teacher there, and now retiring.

“I had to apologize to some of them (mentor teachers) for my behaviour in high school,” Dale Steedman chuckled, recalling his 20-year career at DTSS teaching social studies, physical education, computer education and work experience. Before that he taught in Calgary and in adult education in Radium.

Steedman grew up ski racing at Panorama. After graduating from DTSS, he raced in Europe and New Zealand

for two years. Then he started coaching ski racing for Team Panorama and the Windermere Valley Ski Club. He graduated with a kinesiology degree and Bachelor of Education from the University of Calgary.

“It seemed like a good transition from coaching kids to teaching them,” he told the Pioneer Steedman said technology has been the biggest change for him, not just in school but in daily life. “Phones have really had an impact on the school system. But in the end kids are kids.”

As for retirement, the plan is to spend more time in his garden and greenhouse.

Top all round DTSS student Kayla Wolfenden is pictured here with Heather English and Mike Hubick.
PHOTO SUBMITTED

David Thompson Secondary School Graduates of 2024

Shop teacher role model for female pupils

At the start of her career, Bobby Wright was one of only 13 female shop teachers in Canada. Now she’s saying goodbye after being a role model to girls for many years.

The retiring educator from DTSS came to the valley 30 years ago with an industrial education teaching degree and a journeyman ticket in cabinetmaking. Her goal was to show female students how to reach beyond gender stereotypes when pursuing careers.

Wright has seen an increasing number of students wanting to enter the trades and she attributes this to the rise in the prestige of trades due to the high demand, increased wages and affordable access to training.

However, due to the cell phone culture over the past decade, she has noticed that many students have come into her courses with far less prior experience manipulating tools and operating machines. She feels they have become distracted with the instant entertainment their phones provide and would rather

‘watch someone do it, then try it out for themselves.’ Wright truly thanks her colleagues, former students and their families for their support throughout her time at DTSS. Her retirement plans include exploring the valley more fully.

David Thompson Secondary School Graduates of 2024

Cameron Haworth Vaughn Hemmelgarn
Brooke Isted Sampadha Khanna
Emma McCormack
Scarlett Robichaud
Lauren Irwin Gurkanwal Singh
Emma Stankovski
Jack Steele Ayden Taylor
Sophie Argouin Belinda Bandara
Conner Brooks Cade Clark Xander De Leon
Ethan Dodd Ryker Dunlop
Kaitlyn Eason
Troy Gadsby
Keira Neal Bryce Nicholas-Hall Nevaeh Oddy
Emily Ramos Katelyn Roberts

David Thompson Secondary School Graduates of 2024

Retiring principal gives parting advice

Darren Danyluk has spent every day in a school for the last 54 years and has gathered this advice for graduates: Expect change and don’t listen to that little voice inside that sows doubt in yourself.

While nowhere near ‘Fast Times at Ridgemont High’, Danyluk has seen a lot during his tenure as an educator and principal at DTSS.

His first teaching position was in Fort St. James after being inspired by his own Grade 12 English teacher.

Danyluk actually decided before graduating that he wanted to teach young minds.

“My own teacher had a way of making students, me included, feel important and valued. I thought, ‘what a great way to spend your day – making people feel accomplished and good about themselves – I think I want to do that for a living.’ I never regretted my decision.”

No doubt, the most significant changes he has seen in his career is technology. “It has changed things for

the better in many ways, but the gains have come at a price: engagement – with the world around us, with each other, with experience not viewed through a screen.”

He admits that he has a love/hate relationship with his own cell phone.

Danyluk has truly embraced diversity, noting that inclusion and the freedom to live authentic lives are ideals fostered by youth now, adding it has been amazing to witness this evolution in school.

He pointed out that while the environment has changed significantly

over the years, youth are still largely the same. But now they are faced with pressures which manifest in behaviours, such as high anxiety.

Danyluk said behaviour is communication. “When students’ behaviours are not acceptable, what are they saying to us? There is a greater focus on trying to understand the underlying causes for behaviours and addressing those, while at the same time holding up accountability and consequence.”

Looking back, the educator has so many fond memories, which all relate to students’ self-discovery.

“To be present when a child achieves something for themselves and realizes they are responsible for their own success, and to have contributed – even a little bit – to that discovery is a remarkable gift.”

Danyluk told the Pioneer that reading, writing, and arithmetic, while still critical to the role of schools, now share the spotlight with a list of priorities that recognize the whole child, their families, and the entire community. That’s why he finds it difficult to articulate the

complexity of what it is to be an educator today.

He doesn’t have a crystal ball, but Danyluk predicts that AI (artificial intelligence) will continue to evolve and change the landscape.

“The days when we went to school to acquire knowledge have long passed. We carry in our pockets little devices that place knowledge – about virtually everything – at our fingertips. So, what do we go to school for now? We need to understand what we can do with that knowledge; we need to learn how to examine that knowledge; we need to scrutinize and weigh the value of that knowledge; and we need to recognize bias and falsehood. We need to learn how to think and debate and collaborate and cooperate. More than ever, in the future, we’re going to need to learn how to engage with each other in supportive and productive ways.”

But now Danyluk’s retirement beckons with the goal to drive across Canada and back one more time. He also plans to make more of his “brilliant” pancakes, which is a hidden talent of his.

“Believe you can and you’re halfway there.”

To sir, with love, Mr. Sage says farewell

Gee, what a blow to the ego.

A few years ago, a former graduate of DTSS returned to say hello to a few people. When he saw Mr. (Glen) Sage, he thanked the vice-principal for teaching him the “most important thing.”

Wow! Feeling pretty good about himself, the administrator wondered what it was — learning about legal issues, the importance of Remembrance Day? Heck no. The graduate recalled his hands being messy while eating in class one day, so he asked Mr. Sage if he could go wash up. The educator looked at the pupil and said, “No, use your socks.” That advice seemed to serve the student well, somehow, but it sure deflated Sage’s ego.

Fast forward and the school’s second in command is retiring after nearly 35 years. He arrived at DTSS in 1990 to teach social studies after graduating from university. In 2005 he became vice-principal.

Let’s rewind a bit.

Even as a teenager he worked with youth in hockey schools, so it was clear that education was in his blood.

“The youth really haven’t changed much, but cell phones are a big change,” Sage told the Pioneer. “Not only are they a distraction at school, but I think students have difficulty disconnecting from them and it impacts their home life and the amount of sleep youth get.”

Sage was asked where students get all their intelligence today. “Their vice-principals, of course,” he halfjoked. “I’ve worked with some incredibly talented and bright students who have been leaders in the school and the wider community over my whole career . . . I don’t think the students are all that different from past generations.”

When questioned about discipline and how it has changed, Sage said it all comes down to the era we live in, noting there is a greater emphasis on restorative practices and making things right.

“I think that’s good. Suspending a student so they can play video games isn’t much of a deterrent, but it can be tricky meeting all the needs of the people involved when an incident occurs.”

Sage added there is no ‘one size fits all’ strategy, so having a variety of tools in the box is best.

The administrator said secondary schools are complicated places to work. “I can’t think of any business or organization in the valley that has 500 to 600 people in one crowded building spending about seven hours together every day where the vast majority are teenagers with all sorts of distractions on their mind –that’s complicated.”

Sage acknowledged that anxiety among youth is definitely an issue today. “We all have to support kids; the school, families and community partners. COVID 19 had a big impact. I think it’s like concussions in sports, it was always there, but we know more about it now.”

He noted how essential it is to have educational assistants, youth care workers, Indigenous support workers, and school counsellors available when needed.

In his retirement, the Boston Bruins fan hopes to travel to warm places and do more camping.

“I’m so grateful that in my last semester I have two wonderful Socials 10 classes; that’s a nice way to finish.”

His advice to next year’s students: do what Ms. English tells you —she’s got your back.

Vice-Principal Glen Sage is retiring after nearly 35 years in education. PHOTO SUBMITTED
Retiring - There are approximately 170 years of combined service here with these retiring educators and administrators from Rocky Mountain School District No. 6. From left are Darren Danyluk, Glen Sage, Andrea Dunlop, Werner Kopp, Bobby Wright, and Dale Steedman. PHOTO SUBMITTED

Don’t worry, be happy, Kopp tells grads

Don’t beat yourself up if you haven’t figured it out yet.

Learned advice from a retired social studies teacher who hopes local graduates push out of their comfort zone to “experience the world.”

Educator Werner Kopp from David Thompson Secondary School (DTSS) tends to see a lot of former students at the grocery store for some reason, and it’s hard to believe that many are now in their 40s.

“I’ve actually taught some of their kids,” he mused. “Most ex-students still call me Mr. Kopp. Hey guys, now that I’m retired, it’s probably okay to use my first name,” he chuckled.

Kopp thinks back to when he first started his teaching career in Bella Bella, a First Nations community school on the central coast of BC.

For 32 years he imparted his wisdom to pupils who would listen, and many actually did in his history, law, and English classes at DTSS.

He also taught at Windermere and Edgewater Elementary Schools, and was fortunate to do a teaching exchange with his family in Hobart, Tasmania (Australia) in 2007.

Reflecting on his career, Kopp said the most significant change he has seen in education is the advent of social media and cell phones.

“These have not really benefitted the culture or our school, in my opinion. It is impossible to compete with games, Snapchat and TikTok,” he told the Pioneer “Getting students to put their phones away during class time consumed way too much time and effort. Back in the day, students passing notes in class was the worst of my worries.”

Kopp noted that students appear to be much more stressed and anxious today compared to when he first

started teaching.

“I’m not sure why, but the after-effects of COVID may be part of the reason. From what I have read, increased levels of student stress and anxiety is a worldwide phenomenon.”

When asked what his fondest memories are as an educator, Kopp mentioned the dedication of principals David Gee, Darren Danyluk and Glen Sage, noting they were truly invested in their work.

“These guys took great pride in our school, really cared about our students and worked very hard to build positive relationships with staff.”

Kopp added that Sage stepped up as principal for two years and “saw us through those challenging years of COVID.”

To the graduates who are fearing the future — travel and meet new people, Kopp advises.

“If the idea of going overseas scares you, start small . . . Cranbrook is nice this time of year.”

“You’re

off to great places. Today is your day! Your mountain is waiting. So...get on your way”

-Dr. Seuss

Congratulations Vaughn Hemmelgarn

Student awards - A number of students from DTSS received awards during a recognition assembly last week. In top photo, Eva DeFrancesco and Vanessa Cortat receive plaques for their Rotarian leadership efforts. They are pictured with Glen Sage and Yvonne Redeker from the Rotary Club of Invermere. In left photo, Citizen of the Year is awarded to Anika Reivaj, seen here with Heather English (left), Andrea Dunlop, and Kinsmen president Al Larratt.
PHOTOS SUBMITTED

David Thompson Secondary School Graduates of 2024

Jai Joaquin Slone Leman
Makenna O’Connor
Kyle Obranovic
Cody Reid
Hayley Schan Griffin Schmunk
Maggie Sheltgen
Melanie Thom Dylan Varga
Hayley Walker Bill Warbrick
Samantha Wartbichler Kayla Wolfenden Keaira Wood
Victoria Johnson
Harley Chemelli
Gabe Sillem
Tyler Collis
Lenni Stich
Dominic Croteau

are some

of the

PHOTO SUBMITTED

Class of ‘64 celebrates 60th anniversary

The coming of spring and early summer brings many wonderful changes in our valley and it puts the air of graduation into the minds of many.

Some, such as the DTSS Class of 2024 will be clutching a diploma that they have worked for 12 years to achieve, while many more are looking back at when they left school as a student for the last time.

A name is nothing like the memories, but it still has the ring of an era so, in the case of the Windermere Valley, some remember their high school as Invermere High School, others as David Thompson High School and, for those graduating this year, it’s David Thompson Secondary School.

It was David Thompson High School when the Class of ’64 graduated, and on May 7, 8 and 9, eight members of that class got together to celebrate the 60 years since they marched at their prom. Now, roughly two generations later the Class of 2024 is leaving school filled with

plans, while the Class of ’64 has a lifetime of memories.

Most of the Class of ’64 had started school in 1952, and when they arrived at DTHS in ’58 the school was still at the top of the hill coming up from Athalmer. It was then, just two years after having been opened in ’56, still without a gymnasium, industrial arts, home economics or band rooms; those would come along three years later. The building consisted of one long hall and seven classrooms, two for Grade 7 and one each for Grades 8 to 12.

The Class of ’64, now in their late 70s, at the time of their graduation had 20 students, most of whom are still in B.C., along with one in Ontario and one in Alberta. Two, Neil Berrington and Ray Taft, still live in the valley, and the rest are all in southern B.C.

What did the Class of ’64 accomplish? What did they become? Well, they didn’t invent the snowboard or the cell phone, but they did do some things of note. One became a widely known musician, one a chairman of the Burn-

aby school board, another a director of the Canadian Synchronized Swimming Association. They also became mechanics, financial consultants, homemakers, merchants, truck drivers, a medical records librarian and a mine employee. Plus one realtor and one BC Hydro lineman.

While many look back at school as a lot of fun it, of course, it was really about learning, and the Class of ’64 was fortunate to have a great group of teachers led by Principal George Eacrett. And rural students wouldn’t even have been in class without school bus drivers Jim Boyle and Phyllis Falconer, each of whom drove two routes each morning and afternoon; Mr. Boyle to Windermere and Radium and Mrs. Falconer to Wilmer and West Road south of Invermere.

Locating the class members was somewhat of a challenge. It took help from several brothers and sisters, members of other classes, Facebook, friends, strangers and, in one instance, it took walking around the Village of Clinton

simply asking people on the street, “Do you know my friend Emily, who I graduated from high school with in 1964, she would be about 75 years old now and she lives here in Clinton?” It worked, Emily was located.

In total, 17 out of 20 were found. Sadly, the class has lost two members with the passing of Lavina Fuller and Dave Romane, and were not able to find one classmate.

Of the 17, eight gathered in Kelowna recently at their first reunion since 1986. It was held there rather than Invermere because of its airport and its central proximity for the class.

One of the great differences between arranging a reunion in 2024 and what it would have been like in ’64 is the Internet and long-distance telephone plans. They make it much easier.

Graduations are about classes but they are even more about individuals, and the Class of ’64 is delighted to extend its congratulations to the Class of 2024, each of its graduates, and their families.

PHOTO SUBMITTED

Shown here
members
class of 1964 at David Thompson High School, as it was called back then. Back row, left to right: Betty van Driel, Nanci Kamikawaji Colbeck, David Shymko, Sandra Collins Bird, Linda-Anne Eacrett Lambert, Duane Crandall. Seated: Anne Taft Smith and Karen Askey Mellett.
Virginia Denchuk is pictured here with Herman Mauthner and Heather English during recognition for high achievement in an area outside of school.

SPORTS

The Columbia Valley Football Club U13 Girls soccer team travelled to Airdrie, AB to participate in the Summit Cup tournament over a weekend in June. The team put together some great plays and came out with the bronze medal.

PHOTOS CHRIS MOSELEY

SPORTS

The Invermere Royals U11 baseball team hosted their home tournament in Invermere in June. After a weekend of exciting baseball action the Royals came out on top, winning the gold medal for the tournament.

PHOTOS CHRIS MOSELEY

Next to the Shuswap Band office by the crossroads, all crosswalks at the four-way intersection between the office, Arrowhead Brewing and Kicking Horse Coffee have been painted in an orange and white feather design as a representation of Indigenous pride and culture.

A concert with pianist JULIANA

STEINBACH

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

In cooperation with CVArts on the Steinway piano

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

DISTRICT OF INVERMERE

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 Freedom of Information and Protection of Privacy Act. All submissions will form part of the public record. Questions about the disclosure of your personal information may be referred to the Corporate Officer at 250-342-9281.

Music festival all set to make you dance ENTERTAINMENT

Submitted

The 13th annual Steamboat Mountain Music Festival is all set to invite everybody on board for the weekend of July 5 to 7.

The festival is an affordable, family-friendly, outdoor celebration that has become a signature event for Edgewater.

On Friday, July 5 the festivities begin with five sequential ‘Porch Parties’ at various locations around town. Each party will feature a different local performer.

The first of the parties will be at the Edgewater Par 3 Golf Course where ‘The Delinquents’ will open up the evening. From there, participants will be directed to the next locations where ‘Smarty Pants’, ‘Kevin & Olivia Olson’, and ‘L8’ will play.

The final gathering will be at Frank’s Rink where everyone is invited to bring their instruments and join the fun –‘Pablo Euphoria’ will lead the jam.

Saturday, July 6 will be packed with non-stop music from 11 a.m. until 10 p.m., followed by a dance party in the community hall.

Columbia Head Waters Dancers will open the day, sharing their colourful traditional Indigenous arts.

The main stage line-up this year includes some renowned visiting artists: Canadian Guitar legend Jack Semple from Saskatchewan, Vancouver’s sensational Gabriel Palatchi Trio, and from Calgary, ‘The Wandering Vs’.

The home-grown Columbia Valley main-stagers include: ‘Confluence Jazz’, ‘The Hollers’, ‘Humongous Fungus’, ‘The Hurricanes’, the ‘O’Sullivans’, and ‘Tryg Strand’.

The festival’s ‘Tweener Stage’ will feature short sets between main stage acts highlighting local performers Emma Postlethwaite, Slone Lehman, Will Wardwell, and Val Hudson.

Saturday evening’s after-party dance in Edgewater Hall will feature music by the Calgary-Kimberley-Edgewater power trio ‘Beer Fish’.

For children of all ages, Golden cirque/improv collective A-Muse Troupe will be pranking, puppeteering, and parading around the festival grounds, creating fun and frolic – and fish!

On Sunday, July 7, three music workshops will run at Edgewater All Saints Churchyard. Jack Semple and Gabriel Palatchi are signed up as instructors, and the third session will be a technical workshop on the magic and mysteries of microphones.

Jack Semple is signed up to be an instructor in a music workshop during the Steamboat Mountain Music Festival. PHOTO SUBMITTED

Learn to Swim

RDEK approves ReDi funds

Submitted by RDEK

The Regional District of East Kootenay has approved funding for 138 projects around the region over the coming year.

The funding comes from Columbia Basin Trust’s ReDi (resident directed) Grants, which are administered by the RDEK.

“The approved 2024/2025 projects represent over $1.2 million in funding that will support a wide range of unique, valuable and impactful projects across our region,” says board Chair Rob Gay. “These funds truly shape the vibrancy of our communities and we are incredibly grateful to the Trust for their continued support of the ReDi Grants program.”

After considering public input and recommendations from the municipalities and Electoral Area directors, the board approved the funding at its June meeting. A complete list of the approved projects is available on engage.rdek. bc.ca/redi or by contacting the RDEK.

To learn more about the Trust’s work, programs and grants, visit ourtrust.org.

Seniors get their cake . . . and eat it too

Artist sets scene for summer

Submitted

For more than 20 years Angela Morgan has been doing a full summer show at the Artym Gallery. This year the opening will be Friday from 5 to 7 p.m. with demonstration on Saturday from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. From “cartwheels to cannonballs,” Morgan sets the scene for summer. Springing from spring and straight into the lake, this year’s show is all about play. From the latest phenomenon of pickleball to old time

favourites! People splashing off the docks, go-karting and careening off the mountain, mobilizing red wagon rendezvous, and destination picnics.

“Picking up on play my palette is an explosion of colour this year. Technically speaking, the paintings are energetic, and I’ve had fun exploring different brushwork and creating movement,” Morgan says.

Join us for the exhibition or see it online at www. artymgallery.com

The Invermere Seniors’ Association recently honoured members who are 90 and over. This was one event that the seniors got their cake and ate it too. From left are Vera Lucko, Wray Johnston, Ev McGilvery, Ed Cotton, Eileen Fiell, Andy Stuart-Hill, Olga Redhead, and Paul Poernbacher. Missing from the picture are Gloria Shale, Fred Jamieson, Martha Christie, Bill Aryton, Kathe Aryton and Doris Allen.

Morgan Friday, June 28 5-7pm Saturday, June 29 10-2pm Exhibition continues until July 4

Artist Angela Morgan is featured at Artym Gallery this Friday and Saturday. Her exhibition continues until July 4.
PHOTO SUBMITTED

Reviving the Columbia by restoring salmon

Submitted

Nestled in the heart of the Pacific Northwest, the Columbia River, once hailed as the greatest salmon-producing river in the world, hasn’t seen a significant spawn in its upper portion for 85 years. However, Indigenous-led salmon restoration efforts are currently underway to try to change that.

Since the construction of the Grand Coulee Dam in 1939, salmon have been blocked from returning to the Canadian portion of the upper Columbia River. Despite this, Indigenous nations have remained committed to the goal of salmon reintroduction.

Five years ago, Bringing the Salmon Home: the Columbia River Salmon Reintroduction Initiative was launched. This initiative, led by the Syilx Okanagan Nation, Secwépemc Nation and Ktunaxa Nation, is in partnership with the Government of Canada and the province of British Columbia, with support from Columbia Basin Trust. The initiative aims to reintroduce salmon to Indigenous food, social and ceremonial needs, as well as to benefit the region’s residents and ecosystems.

In support of this initiative, the Bringing the Salmon Home Transboundary Tour was launched on May 24 and 25. This event united hundreds of people at the river’s headwaters in the East Kootenay to raise awareness about the historical and ecological significance of the Columbia River and the importance of salmon reintroduction.

The tour, under the banner “It takes a river of people to bring the salmon,” highlights the collaborative efforts involved in this significant project.

The launch included the unveiling of a Bringing the Salmon Home mural by Ktunaxa artist Darcy Luke at ?akisq’nuk First Nation, Windermere, and a Tri-Nation ceremonial salmon fry release in Invermere, where people participated in releasing salmon fry into the lake. The following day featured special presentations, and cultural performances took place at Raven’s Nest, overlooking the Columbia River wetlands, north of Fairmont Hot Springs.

Following the tour launch, discussions with high school students and a film screening of Bringing the Salmon Home were held at Golden Secondary School on May 27. A series of Trans-

boundary Tour activities are planned over the coming year.

Combining Indigenous knowledge, Western science and cultural engagement, the initiative aims to reintroduce salmon to the Canadian portion of the

Columbia River, a significant goal as nearly 40 per cent of the river’s main stem originates in southeastern BC. Ongoing efforts include ceremonial salmon fry releases and technical studies.

TUESDAY

JULY 3RD 2018

TUESDAY, JULY 2, 2024

TUESDAY JULY 3RD 2018

TUESDAY, JULY 2, 2024

Copper Point Course

TEE TIMES FROM 700AM - 400PM

ongoing upgrades at the Crossroads Ballpark.” Harold Hazelaar, Event Coordinator

Thank you for helping the Lions help the community! Lions Club for minor sports

To book a ‘Charity Golf Day’ tee time call 250.341.3392 or 1.877.418.4653

To book a ‘Charity Golf Day’ tee time call 250.341.3392 or 1.877.418.4653

Thank you for helping the Lions help the community!

The launch included the unveiling of a Bringing the Salmon Home mural by Ktunaxa artist Darcy Luke. PHOTO SUBMITTED
Lake Windermere

SPORTS

Local youth gets first and third in parkour

A Columbia Valley youth recently returned from a major parkour competition in southern California with some very impressive results.

Invermere resident Julian Cameron, age 11, competed in the Zenith International Park Games in San Diego earlier this month and finished first in the speed category and third in the skill category for his age group. He also competed in the freestyle category.

“Everybody was really nice. I made a lot of new friends. It was much more different than any other competition. I’ve never competed in freestyle before,” said Julian “The gym was different, it had lots of different equipment and a lot of it.”

Two of the competitions were held outdoors at a waterfront park which Julian found quite fun.

Parkour is a sport that involves climbing, running, jumping, swinging, vaulting, flipping and otherwise moving through a series of obstacles as quickly as possible. Watching parkourists (or

traceurs, as they are sometimes called) makes the pursuit seem like an athletic combination of movie stunt-double work and martial arts moves straight out of ‘Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon’.

For Julian the appeal of parkour is its focus on the individual performer.

“Everybody is friendly, I feel like I’m just competing against myself. I like learning how to get my body to do flips and stuff. I like getting pushed to get better,” he said. “(Parkour is) not as competitive (as) team sports. I just go out and do my best.”

Julian has been doing parkour for five years, since he was six years old, and has been training with Invermere-based Hardcore Parkour.

He’s been to several other parkour competitions before, but none were the same scale — or difficulty — as the Zenith International Park Games.

“I was nervous for freestyle because I’ve never done it before in competition. I had to make up my own routine when I arrived using their gym. It was challenging. I felt prepared for the speed and skill part because that is what I mostly train for,” said Julian.

He said he was surprised to finish third in the skill category “because it was so hard and I wasn’t sure I would place.” But for the speed category “I was totally confident and pretty sure I would get on the podium for speed. I could see other people’s time sheets and I was going so much faster. Speed is always my best event,” he said.

Hardcore Parkour owner Lisa Weppler was thrilled, calling Julian’s results “outstanding.”

Julian intends to keep practising and take his parkour to new levels. “I have a goal to get better at freestyle and I want to keep learning tricks and I like competing and meeting new parkour people, they are always nice,” he said.

Julian Cameron from Invermere is all smiles after winning first and third at a prestigious parkour competition. PHOTO SUBMITTED

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 SERVICES

Serving Invermere & Area cell 250-341-1202 gerry@gerrytaft.ca

Al-Anon. Are you concerned about or affected by someone else’s drinking? For more information or to speak with someone from our fellowship, please call 250-878-2448 or 250-342-8392

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

Cheers to Tiffany at Invermere Optometry for your professionalism. You have good fashion sense and helped me pick out a nice pair of frames

Cheers to MaryAnne at Dairy Queen. You listened and resolved my concern. Talk about fantastic customer service.

Chadney for treating me to dinner. You are kind, generous and have a very giving spirit. You are a good man!

A massive Cheers to Noreen at the Edgewater Legion for every hot lunch they provided for the Edgewater Elementary School students this school year! We couldn’t have done it without your amazing support! 3 Cheers to you! - EES PAC

Cheers to Kelsey at Red Apple for the friendly service each and every time I go into the store!

Cheers to Jason and Mike for joining our Friday night group. You guys are hilarious and bring great energy. It was a fun evening.

Cheers to Jared at Lambert Kipp Pharmacy for helping this crippled lady by holding open the heavy doors for me. How very thoughtful of you. It was near closing time no less. Great service!!

Cheers to Irene for winning at meat draw. The dry spell is over! Woohooo.

Cheers to my cousin Mark Chadney for treating me to dinner. You are kind, generous and have a very giving spirit. You are a good man!

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

TRUE KEY VACATIONS

Unlock the Earning Potential of Your Vacation Home!

True Key Vacations offers premier local rental management services focused on maximizing your property’s earning potential through direct booking strategies. Our highly professional team handles all reservations, marketing, revenue management and housekeeping services. With our expertise, rest assured your vacation home is in trusted hands. Contact us today to learn more about our comprehensive management solutions.

www.TrueKeyVacations.com 250-347-2992

In Loving Memory

Mary Winnifred (Winnie) MacIsaac August 17, 1930- June 3, 2024

Winnie passed away peacefully on June 3rd 2024, surrounded by her children, grandchildren and great grandchildren who loved her dearly. She is survived by her daughter Margaret MacIsaac, son Frank (Lorie) MacIsaac, son Duncan (Marie) MacIsaac and daughter Theresa (Wallace) Ross, with whom she resided in Invermere, British Columbia. She is also survived by her grandchildren, Jessica MacIsaac, Matthew, and Alison MacIsaac, Emma (Kyle) Cavanagh, and Colin, and Clare Ross. And by her brother William Brown (Antigonish, NS) and sister Hilda Cretin (Brooks, Alberta).

Cremation has taken place. No service by request. Burial will take place at a later date.

ACCOMMODATION WANTED

LOOKING FOR LONG TERM ACCOMMODATION

Relocating to Invermere for permanent teaching position at David Thompson Secondary School. Need a pet friendly long term unfurnished accommodation. Responsible pet owner with pet insurance & tenant liability insurance coverage. Reliable, been living in Kimberley & area since 2015 & can provide long term housing reference. Thomas.Golbeck@sd6.bc.ca

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

Electrical

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

I have a number of green 8ft t-bars used to cage fruit trees. Perfect for keeping out deer. They’re available now. $7 each

Items located near Edgewater. 403-669-2797 kissjs@telus.net

Taynton Bay

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.

BLOW-OUT SALE

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.

$2 Individual Plants Some hangers & pots $10-25

TLC Greenhouse

5115 Fairmont Airport Rd.

Friday, Saturday, Sunday 10:00am - 4:30pm Every weekend until flowers are gone 250-270-0306

swim across Lake Windermere and clambers ashore near Indian Beach.
PHOTOS
BETTY JACOBS

Pursuant to Section 494 of the Local Government Act, public notice is hereby given that the RDEK is considering the Short-Term Rental Temporary Use Permits (STR TUP) listed in the table below. Issuance of the proposed permits will be considered by the delegated staff person at 10:00 am on July 12, 2024 at the RDEK office at 19 - 24 Ave S in Cranbrook, BC.

PERMIT NO. ADDRESS PARCEL ID # OF GUESTS

STR 53-24 #71 – 1492 Akiskinook Road, Windermere 006-452-108 6

STR 56-24 #48 – 1492 Akiskinook Road, Windermere 006-369-677 4

STR 58-24 #49 – 1492 Akiskinook Road, Windermere 006-410-103 6

STR 72-24 #31 – 1492 Akiskinook Road, Windermere 006-369-928 7

STR 73-24 #53 – 1492 Akiskinook Road, Windermere 006-410-138 7

STR 74-24 #84 – 1492 Akiskinook Road, Windermere 006-452-191 6

STR 75-24 #9 – 1492 Akiskinook Road, Windermere 006-453-279 6

STR 78-24 #60 – 1492 Akiskinook Road, Windermere 006-410-243 6

STR 80-24 #135 – 1492 Akiskinook Road, Windermere 006-453-651 4

STR 81-24 #111 – 1492 Akiskinook Road, Windermere 006-451-993 8

STR 59-24 884 Copper Point Way, Windermere 027-004-473 8

STR 77-24 916 Copper Point Way, Windermere 027-004-619 10

STR 54-24 1654 Swansea Avenue, Windermere 023-635-703 10

STR 85-24 1745 Swansea Avenue, Windermere 014-537-869 10

STR 57-24 #4 - 1886 Greywolf Drive, Panorama 024-543-322 8

STR 60-24 1735 Greywolf Drive, Panorama 024-798-673 10

PERMIT NO. ADDRESS PARCEL

STR 62-24 2102 Panorama Drive, Panorama 011-434-309 5 STR 63-24 2123 Panorama Drive, Panorama 013-154-192 9

STR 22-24 1156 Hilltop Road, Windermere 014-856-255 10

55-24 #34 – 4926 Timber Ridge Road, Windermere 031-985-017 6 STR 61-24 1272 Stoddart Estate Drive, Windermere 028-769-937 10 STR 65-24 3631 Toby Creek Road, Toby Benches 009-783-491 10

STR 66-24 4671 Poplar Street, Windermere 014-959-801 7

STR 67-24 1178 Hilltop Road, Windermere 014-855-020 10

STR 69-24 4826 Mountainview Drive, Fairmont

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 July 5, 2024. 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 250-489-2791 or by email at planningdept@rdek.bc.ca.

All written submissions are public information pursuant to the Freedom of Information and Protection of Privacy Act. All submissions will form part of the public record. Questions about the disclosure of your personal information may be referred to the Corporate Officer at 250-489-2791 or 1-888-478-7335.

The Regional District of East Kootenay (RDEK) Board of Directors is considering an application for a Short-Term Rental Temporary Use Permit (STR-TUP) listed in the table below. The Board will consider the proposed Permit at its meeting on July 12, 2024 at the RDEK office at 19 - 24 Ave S in Cranbrook, BC. PERMIT

ID #

GUESTS STR 16-24 5685 Columbia Road, Edgewater 015-606-546 14

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 acharest@rdek. bc.ca prior to 12:00 pm on July 5, 2024. 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 250-489-2791 or by email at planningdept@rdek.bc.ca.

All written submissions are public information pursuant to the Freedom of Information and Protection of Privacy Act. All submissions will form part of the public record. Questions about the disclosure of your personal information may be referred to the Corporate Officer at 250-489-2791 or 1-888-478-7335. NOTICE OF SHORT-TERM RENTAL

NOTICE – BYLAW AMENDMENT – Bylaw 3333 – Windermere

The Regional District of East Kootenay (RDEK) Board of Directors is considering an application from Terrence Fillatre and Suzanne Gionette to amend the zoning designation of the subject property to permit a future two lot subdivision. The property is located at 4814 Lake Road in Windermere as shown on the attached map. Bylaw No. 3333 cited as “Regional District of East Kootenay – Columbia Valley Zoning Bylaw No. 3255, 2023 – Amendment Bylaw No. 15, 2024 (Windermere South / Fillatre & Gionette)” will amend the zone designation of Lot 5, District Lot 8, Kootenay District, Plan 13879 is amended from SH-2, Small Holding Semi-Rural Zone to SH-1, Small Holding Residential Zone.

A public hearing for the proposed bylaw will not be held pursuant to Section 467 of the Local Government Act which states that a local government must not hold a public hearing if:

a) An Official Community Plan is in effect for the area that is the subject of the proposed bylaw,

b) The bylaw is consistent with the official community plan,

c) The sole purpose of the bylaw is to permit a development that is, in whole or in part, a residential development, and

d) The residential component of the development accounts for at least half of the gross floor area of all the buildings and other structures proposed as part of the development Bylaw No. 3333 is consistent with the Lake Windermere Official Community Plan Bylaw No. 2929, 2019. The Official Community Plan designation for the subject property is SH, Small Holding which supports low density residential development with minimum parcel sizes in the range of 0.2 ha to 2.0 ha. Bylaw 3333 will be considered for 1st, 2nd and 3rd readings, and adoption by the RDEK Board of Directors on July 12, 2024.

If you believe that your interest in property is affected by the proposed Bylaw, you may:

• inspect the Bylaw and supporting information by requesting that an information package be emailed to you by contacting kgilbert@rdek.bc.ca. Information packages may be requested up until

• mail or email written submissions to the addresses shown below before Friday, July 5, 2024 at 4:30 pm.

SUBMISSIONS CANNOT BE ACCEPTED AFTER THE DEADLINE.

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

disclosure of your personal information may be referred to the Corporate Officer at 250-489-2791 or 1-888-478-7335.

This notice is not an interpretation of the Bylaw. For more information, contact Krista Gilbert, Planning Technician at 250-489-0314 or toll free at

or email kgilbert@rdek.bc.ca.

COLUMBIA VALLEY 2024 WATERING HOURS

FireSmart

Events

TRETHEWEY BEACH Debris Bin – June 25 to July 4

FAIRMONT HOT SPRINGS Neighbourhood Champion Workshop – June 27

TIMBER SPRINGS Info Session – June 29

Fundraiser set for Canada Day

A fundraiser that started out small has quickly grown quite big, all sparked by the dedicated effort of a local elementary school student.

J.A. Laird Elementary Grade 6 student Max LeBlanc, 11, was diagnosed with Type 1 diabetes just before his second birthday. His mother Jody explained to the Pioneer that “that was the day that forever changed our lives” but quickly added that Max has always been very independent and keen to manage his diabetes himself.

That included starting injecting his own needles when he was just four years old. By the time he was seven, Max decided he wanted to fundraise for the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation (JDRF) to help the group find a cure for Type 1 diabetes.

Mom Jody and dad Marc helped Max get set up at Birchwood Restaurant (Marc is Birchwood’s co-owner), selling tacos, beer, sangria and lemonade on the afternoon of Canada Day in 2019.

“We didn’t realize just how big it was going to be,” said Jody. “Then at one point I looked up and saw that there was a lineup (nearly a full block) going all the way down the street from Birchwood to the bank.”

Max’s goal during that first fundraiser was to raise $500 in three hours. He blew past that goal with flying colours, raising more than $2,700.

The COVID-19 pandemic meant no fundraiser in 2020 or 2021, but in 2022 it was back, and Max raised more than $3,000. Last year the event grew even more, as Max raised more than $4,800. That means a total of more than $10,000 raised across three editions of the

fundraiser, with 100 per cent of money raised going to the JDRF.

This year, in its fourth edition, the fundraiser will be extended for an extra hour, and Max hopes to top $5,000.

Max’s fundraising efforts even caught the attention of the Canadian Senate, where Max’s grandmother — New Brunswick Senator Nancy Hartling — recently gave a speech emphasizing the need for funding for diabetes research and mentioned her grandson.

Jody thanked friends and co-workers, and beer company and food company representatives who helped make the fundraiser a success.

Max’s fundraiser will run from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Monday, July 1 at Birchwood restaurant. Tacos are $3 each, beer or sangria is $5, and lemonade is by donation. Donations can be made directly to the JDRF by visiting www.JDRF.com.

J.A. Laird Elementary School student Max LeBlanc will be holding his Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation fundraiser on Canada Day at Birchwood restaurant. The event has so far raised more than $10,000 to help find a cure for Type 1 diabetes. Shown with Max is mom Jody and dad Marc.

PHOTO SUBMITTED

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

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

Walk for a cure - Families from Invermere travelled to Cranbrook recently to support the JDRF Walk for diabetes. Three local children raised more than $7,000. Olivia DuPoint (above) raised the most money and got to cut the ribbon PHOTO SUBMITTED

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