COMING EVENTS
PHOTOS SYD DANIS
VALLEY NEWS Pedestrian-only area proves popular
By Steve Hubrecht steve@columbiavalleypioneer.com
Invermere’s downtown pedestrian-only area has proved a hit so far.
Back in spring, Invermere council gave the green light to an idea from the Invermere Business Committee (IBC) to close a short, half-block section of 12th Street, adjacent to the cenotaph plaza to create a summer-long pedestrian-only area in Invermere’s downtown core.
The idea of a pedestrian-only main street in Invermere, similar to the one in Banff, has been cropping up in official and unofficial discussions on and off for the past decade. But any time those discussions seemed even faintly serious, controversy then erupted, with a significant number of main street business owners upset that such a move would negatively affect their bottom line.
This past winter the Columbia Valley Chamber of Commerce conducted a survey, which found that although Invermere residents in general were strongly in favour of a pedestrian-only main street, opinions on the topic were still sharply divided — and evenly split — among business owners.
In spring the IBC came up with an alternate, compromise proposal to close the section of 12th Street between the post office and main street, creating a pedestrian-only area that was right next to main street, but not actually blocking main street. Invermere council enthusiastically supported the measure, which became reality a few weeks ago in midJune.
Picnic tables, umbrellas, and wooden lounge chairs have been set up; flower beds added; sidewalk chalk, lawn games and other fun activities left out for passersby to use; and a food truck has set up shop. Local Grade 6 and 7 students from J.A. Laird Elementary School added an unmissable artistic flourish to the spot, painting the concrete blocks delineating the area in bold and colourful designs.
J.A. Laird Elementary vice-principal Crystal Woodworth explained the district wanted the students to create something “happy and bright.” The students got in groups, chose designs they liked and then, during the process of painting “those designs morphed and developed,” said Woodworth. “They had a great time . . . it was busy when we were there, and community members were asking questions and engaging with the kids. It was really lovely. It was a great opportunity for the students to make public art and I am really proud of what they did . . . it looks great.”
The spot has been popular with the public so far. The Pioneer has stopped by on several occasions, finding the area always in use by at least several people
and sometimes quite busy.
“It’s been good. It’s definitely getting used. Every time I go, there’s people there,” said downtown business ION² Progression Suspension co-owner and IBC member Mylene Lefebvre. “People are there eating ice cream, or eating a meal they bought at one of the downtown restaurants, taking a break from shopping, or simply using it as a nice meeting spot while waiting for someone.”
Lefebvre has noticed quite a few people with dogs sitting at the picnic table, eating meals. “It’s great for people with dogs. If you have a dog, and you can’t take it into the restaurant, now you can get takeout and then enjoy your meal at the picnic tables,” she said. “The big lawn chairs are nice to hang out in. I’ve been down there myself a few times, sitting in the sun . . . it’s a nice touch.
She said the feedback she’s heard from the public has been overwhelmingly positive.
Invermere Mayor Al Miller has the same impression, telling the Pioneer that the 12th Street closure experiment has been a success.
“I think it’s been tremendous . . . it has been very well attended, even when weather was chilly there were still people there. Overall it’s a great addition to the downtown,” said Miller. He has spoken with people sitting in the area and “they were all really pleased with it . . . they felt it was very much a community-oriented thing.”
He noted that on Canada Day, the pedestrian area was particularly busy.
When the idea of closing 12th Street for the summer was first proposed, council received two letters from residents concerned it could be difficult to access the post office.
But care has been taken to leave plenty of space in front of the post office, and so far there have been no more complaints, said Miller, adding that, in fact, “all the feedback has been positive.”
The atmosphere created by the street closure is great for Invermere, said Miller. “Once you get people out of their vehicles, if you have a pedestrian-friendly area, people will move around and shop. It makes downtown Invermere an experience. That’s important and valuable.”
Visitors Margot and Gerry Hillman were sitting at a picnic table under an umbrella in the pedestrian-only area on July 5, and both found the new addition to downtown appealing.
“I like it. It’s colourful. It’s a great place to sit down and get out of the heat,” said Margot. “It’s a nice nook, tucked in the centre of town.
Gerry added: “It is inviting. I like the umbrellas, I like the food truck, and I like the painted (concrete) blocks. They are very pretty.”
The closure of part of 12th Street in downtown Invermere to create a pedestrian-only space has so far earned positive reviews, especially from visitors like Gerry and Margot Hillman (shown here).
PHOTO STEVE HUBRECHT
RCMP REPORT
Boater and hikers rescued
Cpl. Jeff Witzke Columbia Valley RCMP
The Columbia Valley RCMP would like to thank all the members of the Columbia Valley Search and Rescue. Over the last week they have been extremely busy helping injured or stranded persons to safety and were first on scene of a horrific helicopter crash. These members are local community members that volunteer their time to help those in need. A big shout out and thanks for all you do.
On July 2 police were notified of an overturned sailboat on Lake Windermere. The strong winds flipped the boat and the operator was not able to get it right side up. Members were enroute using the RCMP police boat, however, a Good Samaritan nearby saw the incident and used their own boat to rescue the
stranded boater.
On July 5 the RCMP were made aware of a stolen bike out of Radium Hot Springs that occurred over the last two days. The bike is a large, red and black Rocky Mountain Growler 2.0. If anyone has seen or knows of its whereabouts, please contact the RCMP detachment.
On July 6 police were made aware of stranded hikers near the Hanging Glacier due to the road being washed out. One of the hikers came out a day early and came across a flash flood that washed out the road, making it inpassible by vehicle. The hiker was able to cross and used his mountain bike to pedal for help. Search and Rescue was requested and confirmed the road was washed out and observed two vehicles on the wrong side of the flooded area. The hikers were eventually located and flown out to safety.
Check
Average Water Temperature: 18.7°C
Average Water Depth: 5.6 m
Average Turbidity: 1.5 NTU
Average D.O.: 9.0 mg/L
Average pH: 7.8
The water was clear and calm early morning with the wind picking up later on; nevertheless we toughed out the waves to collect our data. We spotted lots of red-necked grebes. Keep your eye out to see what kind of grebes you can spot. We noticed the bank swallows are active and nesting too, so make sure to give the babies space by keeping your distance from the banks and shoreline.
Thank you to this week’s citizen scientist volunteer Maddie, event/project coordinator at Travel Columbia Valley.
To volunteer with the LWA, contact us at (250) 341-6898 or info@lakeambassadors.ca
Fairmont chef has great cooking run
By Steve Hubrecht steve@columbiavalleypioneer.com
Fairmont Hot Springs chef Lara McCormack’s stellar run on Favourite Chef — one of North America’s largest online cooking competitions — came to an end a week and a half ago.
Although it wasn’t the victory McCormack’s many Columbia Valley supporters (who cast online votes like mad) had hoped for, McCormack enjoyed the ride and is happy that the competition is raising money for the James Beard Foundation.
The Favourite Chef draws thousands of cooks from across Canada and the U.S, who compete for online votes in successive rounds. Columbia Valley residents, friends and family have been diligently going online to vote for McCormack (known to many locals through her involvement in the local food scene in Fairmont Hot Springs) since midMay when the competition began. As reported previously in the Pioneer, McCormack marched through the initial rounds of the Favourite Chef with ease, advancing through the top 60, the top 20, the top 15, the top 10 and into the quarterfinals.
Voting for the quarterfinals wrapped up on Thursday, June 27, and McCor-
mack finished an oh-so-close second in her group. Not quite good enough to go directly to the semifinals, but she still had another chance to reach the semifinals through a three-day wildcard session (which involved the second place finishers from all the groups).
In the wildcard session McCormack once again came a hair’s breadth from advancing, ultimately finishing second in the voting.
Despite not winning, McCormack is pleased with how she did.
“At the end of the day, I was in the top one per cent of the event and that makes me so happy. I cannot believe the support from the community, friends and family from around the world. I was competing against chefs from major cities where populations are huge and look where I ended up. That has a lot to say about my community and family support,” said McCormack.
“I will know at the end of the competition how much was raised for James Beard Foundation and, obviously, who wins the competition. I do hope this event brings attention to the foundation along with highlighting the work we do in the valley.”
The nonprofit James Beard Foundation supports many culinary-related causes dear to McCormack’s heart.
Beach facility targeted again by vandals
Columbia Valley Pioneer staff
Windermere Beach facilities have been targeted by vandals once again, prompting the Regional District of East Kootenay (RDEK) to ask residents to keep their eyes peeled.
On the June 29/30 weekend, vandals damaged soap dispensers, garbage cans, and the box used to house an automated external defibrillator (AED) used for heart attack victims.
Recreation Services Superintendent Colin Peet said the problem of vandalism has been ongoing at Windermere Beach and asks the public to report any information to the RCMP.
Peet said the AED had been used on the Saturday and staff were in the process of replacing the pads on the unit, but “luckily” the machine itself was not damaged. “This persistent issue is not only costly but could have been potentially dangerous if that life-saving equipment had been affected.”
Pilot death still under scrutiny
The BC Coroners Service is still investigating the death of a ranch owner following a helicopter crash near Brewer Creek on July 2.
Police reported that the rancher was piloting the helicopter when it crashed. Two passengers were injured and taken to hospital.
“Search and rescue crews were deployed to the area and located the helicopter, and sadly the pilot who was deceased,” said Cpl. James Grandy, BC RCMP spokesperson.
Police say the helicopter was privately owned but did not release the name of the deceased.
No further details are being made available at this time.
Columbia Valley Pioneer staff
Lara McCormack is thrilled with her run on Favourite Chef, one of North America’s largest online cooking competitions. She was definitely a favourite among her many fans.
We are all in same boat
Everyone recalls their favourite lake when growing up. Fishing with dad, laying on the beach getting sunburned, waterskiing for the first time . . . it was paradise.
Today, no one can deny that Lake Windermere is a recreational gem, not to mention an ecological haven for wildlife.
Wikipedia says it was once known as Lower Columbia Lake, with an average depth of 15 feet (4.6 metres). It was apparently given its current name by a G.M. Sproat in 1902 because it resembled Lake Windermere in Cumbria, England.
At 17.7 km (10.5 miles) in length, our Lake Windermere is one of the largest lakes in the Kootenays.
But like all lakes, many people take it for granted, rarely thinking about its health and the impact they are having on its values.
A survey released by the Lake Windermere Ambassadors has uncovered several concerns regarding the lake’s capacity to accommodate all of its recreational uses. Respondents revealed a “strong preference” for non-motorized activities, with some saying there should be a restriction on the number of boats allowed on the lake (due to safety concerns). Quite a number (48 per cent) of survey respondents indicated they often feel unsafe on the water.
The Columbia Valley RCMP is called out quite regularly to deal with watercraft incidents on Lake Windermere during the summer months.
In addition to safety issues, concern has also been expressed over the lake’s ecological health when it comes to large boat waves and shoreline erosion. This has prompted suggestions of new boating regulations and enforcement, which may end up being a burden in itself. But like the Ambassadors have already acknowledged, large wakes from big boats are not a big issue on Lake Windermere.
Not everyone agrees there is a conflict here that requires fixing, particularly via new ordinances. But it would be naive to think we can continue our recreational exploits on a shallow lake without some kind of harmful impact on its long-term health.
Instead of head-butting and debates between different factions, we need to work together to protect our lake. Besides, aren’t we all in the same boat?
Lyonel Doherty, editor
Wealthy tryanny over have-nots
In 1968 I lived on ‘unlivable’ wages in Banff, then mostly a regular town. Today in Banff, there are many wealthy out of town residences and revolving transient workers living four-plus to a bedroom. No community quality spirit remains; it is sterile.
Canmore where I lived with 3,000 people has followed that pattern and spirit has dimmed to a pale shadow. Invermere now has one leg over the same cliff.
Why would Invermere not heed those towns’ dysfunctional experiences? Planning expertise with foresight could have limited Invermere in-town house purchasers to full-time locals employed here [it’s been done elsewhere]. Instead a new town bylaw encourages more wealthy out of towners to grab in-town second homes, outbidding locals and often evicting renters. Within Invermere a third of housing is now owned by visitors and a lot of them are converting to rental motels, greatly diminishing the availability of locals’
housing. This unhealthy situation fuelled by wealth is hurting and not benefitting 99 per cent of Invermere’s locals.
High school students are the only employees available for some local businesses now. Local young adults without wealthy families must stay with parents, compete for a diminishing very few rentals, or be forced to say goodbye. Our community quality is predictably disappearing rapidly.
We nicknamed Banff, ‘where selfish greed meets opportunity’. This is becoming applicable to Invermere. Our administrators’ motive is baffling, while the wealthy are now in gobble mode. Aristotle’s rules of logic do say: if you permit stupid things to happen, you’ll get stupid consequences. With wisdom this did not have to be inevitable. Spirit is being sacrificed and Invermere is fading quickly to anonymity.
Capitalistic greed has no empathy or conscience. Bill Ark, Invermere
Boucher
Drivers urged to watch out for animals
Submitted by Road Safety At Work
With BC in a peak period for wildlife activity, Road Safety at Work urges drivers in the Columbia Valley to be on alert for animals on highways.
Every year in B.C. some 9,900 vehicle collisions with wildlife are reported, according to ICBC. The actual numbers may be much higher due to under-reporting.
Collisions with deer often increase at this time of year, and with moose in June and July.
“Wildlife collisions often happen with little or no warning and are traumatic for everyone involved,” says Trace Acres, program director for Road Safety at Work, which aims to prevent work-related crashes. “Drivers, their passengers, and animals can be injured or killed by the initial impact.”
A male elk can weigh more than 300 kilograms (700 pounds), and a male moose can weigh up to 700 kilograms (1,500 pounds). The force of a collision with such a large animal can cause serious injuries when drivers lose control of their vehicle and go off the road or hit another vehicle.
The risk increases at this time of year due to wildlife seasonal habits that are based on feeding and reproductive cycles. Deer and moose can change their normal travel area and cross roads
more often. Wildlife collisions are more common during dawn and dusk — from 6 to 8 a.m. and 5 to 8 p.m. — when animals are most active and light conditions are low.
Collisions often occur on highways and roads connecting rural and suburban areas, and near good habitat and forage sites such as green belts, parks, fields, and golf courses.
Prevent wildlife collisions
Animals are unpredictable. When they appear to be leaving the road they may suddenly turn around and run in front of you.
“You can't control what wildlife does, but you can take steps to reduce your risk of a collision,” Acres says.
Drivers are advised to:
• Remain alert during peak wildlife hours
• Watch for animal crossing signs
• Slow down when you see an animal on the side of the road. Others may be nearby.
• Pay attention to other drivers. Someone flashing their headlights may be signalling that they’ve seen an animal.
• Plan routes to avoid key wildlife areas during high-risk times or choose safer travel times.
"Understanding the patterns of wildlife activity and adjusting driving habits accordingly is crucial for pre-
venting these potentially fatal encounters," Acres says.
For the hundreds of thousands of British Columbians who drive as part of their job, wildlife are just one of the many hazards they face on the road.
Driving may be the most dangerous thing they do at work. Vehicle crash-
es are the leading cause of traumatic work-related deaths in B.C. Yet most crashes can be prevented.
When employees drive on the job full time, part time, or occasionally, their employers are legally responsible for training them in safe driving procedures.
Book lovers unite for ‘BIG Book Sale’ Aug. 3
Submitted
Bookworms and bookhounds unite —the BIG Book Sale is coming to Invermere on Saturday, Aug. 3.
“While the BIG Book Sale is a lot of work, it is also a fun occasion where valley residents and visitors connect with each other over a love of reading and getting a bargain,” says Lynda Tutty, chair of the Friends of the Library (FOL).
The sale was born 16 years ago as a way to raise funds for the Invermere Public Library. At the time, the library was located in the former RCMP detachment adjacent to the museum before moving to its current location in the Columbia Valley Centre in 2017. This move and the expansion of the collection and the extensive services the library provides to the community require funding on an ongoing basis. That’s where the FOL come in.
The BIG Book Sale is the premier fundraising vehicle of the FOL. Thousands of books for sale are donated by generous people in the community.
Almost daily throughout the year, a dedicated team of volunteers empties the book donation bin, checks the publication date and condition, sorts them by genre and boxes them in preparation for the sale.
Volunteers Helen Kipp and Betty
Anne Goodwin (bottom photo) have been busy sorting donated books of all genres.
On sale day, 25 or more volunteers jump into action at about 6:30 a.m. setting up tents, tables, signage, and unboxing the books. Eager bibliophiles start lining up at 8 a.m. snaking across the courthouse parking lot and down the street. From 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. about a thousand people attend the sale.
Collectively, the volunteers have hundreds of hours of experience that allow them to know what will sell. For several reasons, not all books will make it to the sale tables. Older and damaged book (broken spines, missing pages or covers, water stained, and those with mildew or mould) do not sell.
The Friends of the Library welcome donations of gently used books and jigsaw puzzles right up until the day of the sale on August 3. Books can be dropped off in the donation bin in front of the book donation centre beside the court house at any time.
Columbia Valley motorists are encouraged to be alert at all times when driving local highways and byways.
PHOTO SUBMITTED
The BIG Book Sale on Saturday, Aug. 3 will have a variety of genres to choose from, including children’s
Westslope cutthroat trout coming to Olive Lake
By Steve Hubrecht steve@columbiavalleypioneer.com
Olive Lake in Kootenay National Park will be closed to the public later this year or at some point next year, as Parks Canada begins efforts to remove non-native fish species and then eventually reintroduce Westslope cutthroat trout.
As any local nature lover will tell you, westslope cutthroat trout are one of the Columbia Valley’s (and indeed one of the East Kootenay’s) most iconic native fish species, extremely popular with anglers. They are listed as ‘vulnerable’ in British Columbia and ‘threatened’ in Alberta. (They are also a ‘fish of special concern’ across the border in Montana, where they are also the designated state fish.)
Parks Canada will at the same time also remove non-native fish species, particularly brook trout, from two other remote lakes in Kootenay National Park — Talc Lake, near the three-way border between Kootenay National Park, Banff National Park and Assiniboine Provincial Park; and Kaufmann Lake, up Tokumm Creek, near the three-way border between Kootenay National Park, Banff National Park and Yoho National Park.
These two lakes, unlike Olive Lake, will not see westslope cutthroat introduced because westslope trout did not historically exist in these lakes (as they did in Olive), explained Parks Canada Lake Louise, Yoho and Kootenay field unit aquatic ecologist Shelley Humphries. But taking brook trout out of these lakes will still benefit westslope cutthroat, because the brook trout spill out of Talc and Kaufmann Lakes, affecting downstream population of westslope cutthroat trout.
“Essentially what we are doing is correcting mistakes Parks Canada made in the past with historic fish stocking,” Humphries told the Pioneer Parks Canada initially stocked Olive, Talc and Kaufmann Lakes with brook trout for anglers decades ago. Although Talc and Kaufmann Lakes may seem remote now, once upon a time they were on popular horse packing trails, and saw significantly higher numbers of visitors than they do today.
In the ensuing decades Parks Canada’s understanding of ecological science has evolved, and it’s now time to put things back the way they once were, outlined Humphries.
“We don’t understand all of the ecological complexities, but we know that when we have brook trout they do end up playing a different role in the ecosystem than westslope cutthroat trout or other native fish species such as bull trout or mountain whitefish,” she said. “We are confident that the species that have evolved to be there have a special place in the ecosystem.”
The efforts at Olive, Talc and Kauffman Lake follow on the heels of very similar projects in Banff National Park, which began in 2018.
“Those are going really well, they are almost done and we are looking to build on that success,” said Humphries.
The exact date when Parks Canada staff begin removing trout from Olive Lake is yet to be determined, but will be either later this year or next year, likely in September, outside of the tourist high season. Staff will use a fish toxicant — rotenone — to kill the brook trout in Olive Lake, then they’ll pick up the fish, and clean up the lake.
They’ll need to do it twice to make sure they get all the brook trout. “They can be tricky and sometimes difficult to remove,” said Humphries. “If they have already spawned, their eggs will not be affected by the toxicant.”
They will then use an auger-like machine called a hopper to de-activate the rotenone before it leaves Swede Creek (Olive Lake’s outlet creek) and enters the Kootenay River. After that they’ll double check Olive Lake and Swede Creek to make sure zooplankton and invertebrate populations are recovering (the introduced westslope cutthroat will need these food species to survive).
To restock Olive Lake, Parks Canada staff will catch some of the most genetically diverse westslope cutthroat in Banff National Park. They will take the eggs from the females and the ‘milk’ (reproductive cells) from the males. They’ll fertilize the eggs, put them in incubators in Parks Canada offices and then, once the eggs are eyed, they will place them in Olive Lake.
“Then they’ll hatch and swim away,” explained Humphries.
But she cautioned that part of the process is at least several years away, since removing the brook trout can take some time.
The process at Talc Lake and Kauffman Lake will be similar, except everything needs to be flown in by helicopter, given the remoteness of those lakes.
Once the work at Olive Lake begins, it will offer a great spot to see Parks Canada conservation work in action, since it is literally at the side of Highway 93 South, outlined Humphries.
In the meantime, those who can’t wait can get a glimpse of the westslope cutthroat re-introduction project in Banff National Park, through Parks Canada’s guided interpretive hike to Hidden Lake, behind Lake Louise. But be warned, you need to go soon; when the project finishes, so will the guided hikes.
“The interpreters are excellent, and we do get great feedback,’ said Humphries, who has also led field trips to the Hidden Lake reintroduction project as part of the Columbia Valley-based Wings Over the Rockies Festival.
“There are always a lot of questions, and participants usually leave very positive,” she said. “I think there is a lot of interest in this kind of conservation work, and it is a great, uplifting story. A lot of conservation stories have a negative tone, but this is a success story. We can save these fish.”
Career Opportunity SNOW AND PARKS WORKING FOREMAN
The Village of Radium Hot Springs is growing and seeks a Snow and Parks Working Foreman to oversee all functions of the Public Works snow and ice control program and parks services. Radium is a BC Resort Municipality with close access to skiing, trails, golf, hot springs, the Columbia River, and the BC backcountry.
The Snow and Parks Foreman is a key position which will lead winter snow and ice control operations in the village and manage parks and facilities maintenance year-round, including the Village’s municipal outdoor rink. Safe equipment operation is a major part of the position.
In return the Village offers a competitive salary (up to $38 per hour) depending on experience and comprehensive benefits including a defined benefit pension (BC’s Municipal Pension Plan).
The ideal candidate will have at least two years’ experience running snow and ice control equipment and two years’ supervisory experience.
Some overtime and on-call hours will be expected over the winter season as scheduled or needed due to snowfall. During winter months, the Snow and Parks Foreman will monitor the weather forecast and snow conditions in Radium Hot Springs and be available to start work early in the morning or within 35 minutes from self-initiated call out as required. Vacation time and time off will be limited in the winter season (October 15 to March 15 each year).
Desired knowledge and skills include:
• A self-starter, able to work well with little supervision
• Ability to manage and motivate staff
• Ability to safely operate equipment, machinery and small tools and follow manufactures’ recommendations
• Excellent organizational skills
• Good understanding of municipal budgets
• Parks and Facilities maintenance knowledge
• Ability to read blueprints, engineering plans, drawings, and sketches Personality is key! Awesome candidates should submit a resume and cover letter by Monday July 22, 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.
Parks Canada plans to remove non-native fish species from Olive Lake and reintroduce Westslope cutthroat trout.
Invermere hires new environmental planner
By Steve Hubrecht steve@columbiavalleypioneer.com
After nearly a year of the position sitting vacant, the District of Invermere finally has a new environmental planner.
Amy Fletcher began in the role the first week of June, and has already sunk her teeth into a number of initiatives.
Fletcher is Australian, but is no stranger to the Columbia Valley. She spent three winters as a snowboard instructor at Panorama Mountain Resort starting in 2010. Fletcher left Canada, became an environmental scientist and outdoor educator, started a family, and by a quirk of fate, returned to the Columbia Valley last year, almost a decade after she first left.
She grew up in a surfing and sailing family in Adelaide, capital of South Australia, and credits that initial — and constant — exposure to the outdoors with fostering an environmental ethic in her at a young age.
“We were always, always by the ocean. Surfing, sailing, swimming. I didn’t realize it at the time, but it was a connection to nature and it was always there. Through that I learned the idea of leaving the environment in a better state than when I found it,” Fletcher told the Pioneer
After those winters at Panorama, Fletcher went to university (three universities, actually — Flinders University, Charles Darwin University, and the University of Tasmania), successively collecting an environmental science degree; a teaching degree; and a post grad diploma in sustainability and waste management.
Collectively “that opened up the door to some fun things,” said Fletcher. She worked as an outdoor educator for a while before she and her partner Charlie decided to spend a few years travelling around Australia and living out of a van, both picking up work (or working remotely) along the way. It was a time to remember, both professionally and personally. There was the red sand deserts of Western Australia bordering white sand beaches and the world famous Ningaloo Reef (which Fletcher describes as “an underwater rainforest”) at Exmouth; wide-open horizons; and the towering old growth trees of Tasmania. Fletcher worked various gigs along the way including helping a school develop a waste management plan; and consulting for waste management companies.
She and Charlie became a trio when their daughter Joanie was born two and a half years ago.
This gave new depth and meaning to Fletcher’s environmental outlook on life. “We always talk about how we are leaving the earth for the next generation. But when you have that next generation literally right in front of you, you think ‘this is the person I want to make it better for’,’ said Fletcher.
Life started to seem a bit more settled in Australia, but then a job opportunity came up for Charlie — a heavy duty mechanic — that required him to be based in Canada.
“I didn’t think I’d end up back in Canada, but when that came up, I said ‘Oh, I know a place’,” recalled Fletcher. “When I first came to Invermere, back in 2010, I was drawn by what draws most of the Australians here — the mountains and the ski fields. They are mind blowing compared with what we have in Australia. But what drew us back was the people, the connection and the friendships.”
Fletcher had several good friends from her time at Panorama still living in the Columbia Valley. When Charlie was offered the Canadian job, Fletcher immediately reached out to those friends. Was Invermere still the same awesome, outdoorsy, community-minded town she remembered? Of course, her friends replied. Soon she, Charlie and Joanie were headed across the Pacific to a home that was new to them as a family, but very familiar to Fletcher.
“Ski towns can be transient. But when you decide to stay in Invermere, you start to realize it’s not just a great place, it’s a great place and a great community, winter and summer,” said Fletcher. “You are surrounded by people who share the same values — love of the outdoors, sense of community — that you have. That’s the kind of thing that makes you want to cross an ocean with a toddler.”
Fletcher and family arrived in Invermere in May 2023. Last winter Fletcher relived her past, working as a snowboard instructor at Panorama again, and loved it. But when she learned the district was looking for an environmental planner, it was an opportunity too good to pass up (even for another winter as snowboard instructor).
“I was very excited to get the job,” Fletcher told the Pioneer. “It’s a great fit for me.”
So far she’s been involved in the district’s plan to switch from its current recycling program — the Regional District of East Kootenay (RDEK) operated ‘yellow bin program’ — to a Recycle BC-led program, starting this coming November, and is also working on Invermere’s efforts to establish curbside compost and organic waste collection.
“It’s been on the agenda in Invermere for a while now,” said Fletcher, of the composting. “The idea is to keep food waste out of landfills . . . I’m very passionate about it.”
Other initiatives Fletcher has on her plate at the moment include expanding electric vehicle charging options in the Columbia Valley; and creating Sustainable Invermere Facebook and Instagram pages to raise awareness, outline projects, educate the public, and offer practical tips on reducing waste.
Amy Fletcher (centre), here with partner Charlie and daughter Joanie, is the District of Invermere’s new environmental planner. PHOTO
OUT OF OFFICE…
Rural Community Immigration Pilot: Being involved as a Business
Submitted by Columbia Valley Community Economic Development
The Rural Community Immigration Pilot (RCIP) is a Federal program offered by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) and aims to address the unique labor market demands of rural and small communities by offering an accelerated pathway to permanent residency. This community-led program is designed to bring skilled workers to rural communities and spread the benefits of economic immigration to communities outside of large metropolitan centers.
Communities across the East Kootenays are coming together to apply to be part of this pilot program to support local businesses in finding the skilled workers they need, while also helping individuals already in the community to continue building their lives here.
Impact on Our Communities
Participating in the Rural Community Immigration Pilot will bring substantial benefits to our rural communities:
• Workforce Enhancement: The program will help fill critical job vacancies which are vital to our local economy.
• Community Integration: By providing a pathway to permanent residency, the program will help retain skilled workers and their families, ensuring long-term community growth and stability.
• Economic Growth: With more jobs filled and a stable workforce, local businesses can expand and thrive, contributing to the overall economic health of the East Kootenay region.
The sectors we have identified as having labour challenges across our communities include Food & Beverage (including chefs, cooks, bakers, servers and kitchen staff),
Healthcare Aides & Nurses, Early Childcare Educators & Teachers, and Labourers & Construction. Once successful with our application we will look for further community input into the sectors we will prioritize through this program.
The West Kootenays participated in the previous pilot. The program has been very successful in helping to fill 650 jobs. 91% of the applicants were already located in the West Kootenays which showed the program’s success in helping retain local talent.
We are hopeful that a successful East Kootenay application will have a positive impact on local businesses and residents.
The deadline to participate as a business if Monday July 15. If you have any questions or would like to view the recorded information session, please email: advisor@cvchamber.ca
Thursday, July 11
• 9:00am-12:00pm: Pickleball. Mt Nelson Athletic Park. Drop-in.
• 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.
• 10:30am-11:30am: Senior’s Fitness Columbia Valley Centre, $2 dropin.
• 10:30am-11:00am: Storytime in Edgewater. Edgewater Community Hall Park. Join Radium Library for stories, songs, and a craft! Geared towards preschool ages but all are welcome!
• 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!
• 3:00pm-4:30pm: Buddy Reading. Invermere Public Library. Practice reading aloud one-on-one with a staff member to build skill, confidence and a love of reading! Mondays, Thursdays and Saturdays in July and August! 30 minute sessions at 3:00, 3:30 or 4:00 pm. By Appointment Only!! Contact Invermere Library to sign up.
• 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, July 12
• 10:30am-11:00am: Pop-Up Storytime. By the Invermere Public Library. Join us for stories, songs and a craft at a fun new location each week! Geared Towards Preschool age, but all welcome! This week at: Serenity Farm Windermere.
• 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 ‘L8’.
• 9:00am-12:00pm: Pickleball Invermere Curling Club. Drop-in.
• 9:00am: Tennis for Everyone. Rotary Park Tennis Courts. CV Mixed Doubles – any age and skill level welcome.
• 10:30am-2:30pm: World of Curiosities; Radium Summer Reading Club. Radium Library. A FREE weekly program with fun crafts and activities for ages 5-12. Registration is required (info@radiumbclibrary. ca)! Ages 5-8- 10:30am to 11:45am. Ages 9-12- 1:15pm to 2:30pm
• 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!
Saturday, July 13
• 9:00am-12:00pm: Pickleball. Mt Nelson Athletic Park. Drop-in.
• 10:30am-11:00am: Saturday Family Storytime. Invermere Public Library. Join us every Saturday morning for stories, songs and a craft at the Invermere Public Library. Geared towards preschool age, 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: Board Game Afternoons. Invermere Public Library. Drop in to the Mezzanine at the library and play one of our many board games or bring your own! You can also work on our community puzzle or start a puzzle of your own! All welcome!
• 3:00pm-4:30pm: Buddy Reading. Invermere Public Library. Practice reading aloud one-on-one with a staff member to build skill, confidence and a love of reading! Mondays, Thursdays and Saturdays in July and August! 30 minute sessions at 3:00, 3:30 or 4:00 pm. By Appointment Only!! Contact Invermere Library to sign up.
• 6:30pm: Meat Draw and 50/50 in the Legion! Members and guests welcome!
Sunday, July 14
• 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 15
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). This Week: Top Gun Maverick
• 9:00am-12:00pm: Pickleball. Mt Nelson Athletic Park. Drop-in.
• 9:00am: Tennis for Everyone. Rotary Park Tennis Courts. CV Mixed Doubles – any age and skill level welcome.
• 10:00am-11:00am: Senior's Yoga Columbia Valley Centre, Invermere. $2 drop in, open to all seniors.
• 3:00pm-4:30pm: Buddy Reading. Invermere Public Library. Practice reading aloud one-on-one with a staff member to build skill, confidence and a love of reading! Mondays, Thursdays and Saturdays in July and August! 30 minute sessions at 3:00, 3:30 or 4:00 pm. By Appointment Only!! Contact Invermere Library to sign up.
• 6:30pm: Duplicate Bridge. Invermere Seniors Hall. Every Monday, visitors welcome; $2.
• 6:30pm: Poker (Chip up for Charity). The Station Pub $20 buy-in. Every Monday.
Tuesday, July 16
• 9:00am-12:00pm: Pickleball. Mt Nelson Athletic Park. Drop-in.
• 10:30am-11:30am: Senior’s Fitness Columbia Valley Centre, $2 drop-in.
• 11:00am-3:30pm: World of Curiosities; Invermere BC Summer Reading Club. Join the Invermere Public Library to explore the World of Curiosities with the Summer Reading Club. 11:00-12:30: ages 5*-8; 2:00-3:30: ages 9-12. Registration required for weekly activities. Contact the Invermere library to sign up or for more information: publiclibrary@invermere.net *Kids who are 5 years-old must be finished kindergarten to attend.
2:00pm-3:00pm: Novel Idea. Invermere Library. This month we are reading I'm Glad My Mom Died by Jennette McCurdy. Copies of the book are available at the front desk. Contact us to reserve a copy or to request large print. All welcome to attend!
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 17
• 6:30pm-8:00pm: Locals Live Concert Series. Pothole Park. The District of Invermere presents free music entertainment every Wednesday in July and August. Bring your own lawn chair! This week: Elise Boulanger
• 9:00am-12:00pm: Pickleball. Mt Nelson Athletic Park. Drop-in.
• 9:00am: Tennis for Everyone. Rotary Park Tennis Courts. CV Mixed Doubles – any age and skill level welcome.
• 10:00am-11:00am: Senior's Yoga Columbia Valley Centre, $2 dropin.
• 11:30am-12:00pm: Story Time. Radium Library - for preschool & all ages welcome.
• 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 barn. Facebook @ agriparkfarmers
• 6:00pm-9:00pm: Wednesday Dinners & Meat Draw & 50/50 Invermere Legion. All welcome.
‘Cruise In’ takes vintage buffs back in time
Gabriel Palatchi Trio The Hollers The Hurricanes
Fungus Jack Semple
Jubilee Mountain
Kiley McKergow
Wandering V’s
O’Sullivans
Tryg Strand & the Band
Slone Leman
Val Hudson
TICKET OUTLETS
Arrowhead Brewery Brisco Store
Candyland
Troupe
Columbia River Headwaters
Dancers
Confluence Jazz
FESTIVAL VENUE PARTNERS
Edgewater Community Hall, Park, & Frank’s Rink
Edgewater Recreation Society
Edgewater Legion Branch
#199
Edgewater All Saints Church for Workshops
SILENT AUCTION DONORS
Artym Gallery
Avenue Ladies Boutique
Beeland Market & Coffee Bar
Bird’s Eye Boutique
Black Star Studios
Bavin Studios
Bliss Beads
Blooming World
Café
Edgewater Legion Far Out Gear Rentals
Pip’s Country Store
Bosley’s
Brisco Wood Preservers
Bueno Vida Cuban & Mexican
Cuisine
Calgary Folk Music Festival
2024
Carm Haven Studios
Carol Gordon, Artist
Cheryl Russel
Circle Market & Café
Conrad Kain’s Kitchen & Grill
Copper City Dental
Crazy Soles
David Goldsmith
Dietje Hagedoorn Custom Design
Edgewater Hilltop Par 3
Elaine Shelstrom
Elemental Cycle
Elliott’s Rocky Mountain Farms
Erin Burrell
Flourishing Health
Funky Junk
Hair & There Barber Shop
Hello Gorgeous: Nails by Jamie
Her Public Boutique
Horsethief Creek Pub & Eatery
Inside Edge Boutique
Inspire Gift & Floral Boutique
John Durning Firewood
Just Music
Kootenay Coffee Works
Kootenay Hall of Frames
Kootenay River Runners
La Galleria II
Leon D. Wall
Midnight Rose Formulas
Om Organics & Skincare
Ozzie Amusements
Pat Bavin, Artist
Patricia Dodich
Purnina Gosavi
Rainbow Donkey Clothing
Rising Sun Massage &
Wellness Studio
River Gems Gallery
Rocky Mountain Honey Farm
Rose Daugherty
Screamers
Sharlene Schofield
Shenanigans on 12th
She Shed Creations
Smokehouse 93
Spur Valley Resort
Station Pub
Summit Shoes
Syndicate Board Shop
Tea, etc.
Three Bears Gift Shop
Trading Post Specialty Foods
Valhalla Pure Outfitters
Village Arts
Valley Arts - Pat Bavin
Valley Arts
Valley Zip Line Adventures
Wildside Pizzeria
The Canal Flats Cruise In on July 6 brought back memories for a lot of people who marvelled at the many vintage cars and trucks on display.
New vet clinic opens in Canal Flats
By Steve Hubrecht steve@columbiavalleypioneer.com
The Columbia Valley has a new veterinarian clinic and Canal Flats has a brand new business.
That’s a big plus for the village and a big plus for anyone who owns a horse, cow, dog or cat that needs medical attention.
For quite some time, the upper part of the Columbia Valley has had just one vet clinic — the Invermere Veterinary Hospital — serving the many animals that get hurt. To make things even busier, nearby Golden was without a vet clinic for a number of years, and anyone in Golden needing a vet had to come to Invermere.
But the situation changed on Friday, June 21, when the Columbia Valley Veterinary Clinic held a grand opening at its new facility on Thunder Hill Road in Canal Flats (on the southwest side of Highway 93/95).
It may be a new business, but clinic owner Dr. Sarah Ort has already lived in Canal Flats and has been a vet in the valley for several years.
Ort grew up in Ontario near Tillsonburg (yes, the same Tillsonburg made famous by the hit 1971 Stompin’ Tom Connors country song).
“I had a love of animals since I was young,” Ort told the Pioneer. “But I wasn’t one of those people who always knew they wanted to be a vet. I was drawn to the medical industry, but wasn’t initially sure if I wanted to work with humans in a medical context or with animals.”
After finishing university, Ort moved across the country to British Columbia, living with an aunt in Coquitlam while volunteering at a vet clinic. She found that she loved B.C. and loved helping
animals.
“It was extremely rewarding to work on so many different species,” she said. Ort returned to Ontario to attend the Ontario Veterinary Clinic. While there she volunteered at a large veterinary intensive care unit. It was interesting work, but after graduating Ort moved back to B.C., taking a job with the Steeples Veterinary Clinic in Cranbrook.
There she met her partner, who manages Columbia Lake Ranch, located on the west side of Columbia Lake between Fairmont Hot Springs and Canal Flats. As the relationship grew more serious, Ort got tired of commuting an hour each way between the Columbia Valley and Cranbrook and decided to move to Canal Flats.
“I used to think Tillsonburg (population 18,000) was a small town. Then I moved to Canal Flats,” recalled Ort, laughing. “But I love the atmosphere in Canal Flats. It’s very friendly here, there’s mountains and Columbia Lake — the quieter lake in the Columbia Valley — is right there.”
She took a job with the Invermere Veterinary Clinic, then later launched her own mobile veterinarian business, which saw her visiting clients and animals at their own homes, farms and ranches.
“If you are a vet in a rural area, such as here in the Columbia Valley, you are dealing with new cases all the time. You are constantly learning,” said Ort.
“When you are far from veterinary emergency and referral clinics, as we are here, you have to learn to do many different things, interesting surgeries, and you have to learn to think outside the box . . . the medicine is fascinating.”
Ort decided a while ago to transition from being a home-visit vet to
building her own facility. Getting all the right permits took some time, but ever since the grand opening the Columbia Valley Veterinary Clinic has been busy, helping pet owners and farmers with cats, dogs, horses, cattle, and small ruminants (such as goats and sheep) in distress.
“Everyone is super excited. The community here in Canal Flats has been supportive,” said Ort, noting that the Columbia Valley has been short of qualified vets for some time, and there’s definitely demand for more.
She plans to eventually grow the Columbia Valley Veterinary Clinic to include four veterinarians, and has built the facility accordingly.
It’s a 4,000 square foot space, with soaring high ceilings, plenty of natural light and recycled wood incorporated
into the building material. It’s part of a purposeful effort to creating a welcoming atmosphere and a positive work culture.
The vet business can “sometimes be a stressful job,” with long hours, occasionally challenging conditions and having to break bad news to clients who have lost their animals, said Ort.
“There can be a lot of burnout and compassion fatigue in the industry, so there is really a push to create open and positive social and physical environments. The whole industry is trending in that direction. That’s what we are aiming for with the Columbia Valley Veterinary Clinic: growth in the direction of purpose. Happy staff in a happy facility results in better care for animals.”
To find out more visit www.columbiavalleyvet.com.
Dr. Sarah Ort has opened her new veterinary clinic in Canal Flats, a welcome new business in the community.
PHOTOS SYD DANIS
Mountain Al Fresco all dressed in white
The Mountain Al Fresco event at the CPR Lodge greenspace in Invermere on July 6 was a unique dining experience in all white attire. It was also very cool to see people mingling inside a huge bubble (below left). At top right is Emma Kade providing entertainment.
PHOTOS CHERI HANN AND VALLEY KIDS INFLATABLES & PARTY RENTALS
The Regional District of East Kootenay (RDEK) Board of Directors is considering an application by Gerald and Richard Marzocco to amend the Lake Windermere OCP and the Columbia Valley Zoning Bylaw to accommodate an eight lot subdivision. The subject land is located at 879 Swansea Road in Windermere, as shown on the attached map. Bylaw No. 3322 cited as “Regional District of East Kootenay – Lake Windermere Official Community Plan Bylaw No. 2929, 2019 – Amendment Bylaw No. 14, 2024 (Windermere / Marzocco)” will amend the OCP designation of Parcel A (Explanatory Plan 7930) of Lot 1, District Lot 7567, Kootenay District & Parcel A (Explanatory Plan 7930) of Sublot 29. District Lot 4596, Kootenay District Plan X32, from SH, Small Holdings to R-SF, Residential Low Density. Bylaw No. 3323 cited as “Regional District of East Kootenay – Columbia Valley Zoning Bylaw No. 3255, 2023 – Amendment Bylaw No. 13, 2024 (Windermere / Marzocco)” will amend the zone designation of Parcel A (Explanatory Plan 7930) of Lot 1, District Lot 7567, Kootenay District & Parcel A (Explanatory Plan 7930) of Sublot 29. District Lot 4596, Kootenay District Plan X32, from SH-1, Small Holding Residential Zone to R-1 (A), Single Family Residential Zone. A public hearing will be held via Zoom webinar conference: Tuesday, July 23, 2024 at 6:00 pm.
The Board has delegated the holding of this hearing to the Directors for Electoral Areas F and the District of Invermere. If you believe that your interest in property is affected by the proposed Bylaws, you may prior to the hearing:
• inspect the Bylaws and supporting information by requesting that an information package be emailed to you by contacting kgilbert@rdek.bc.ca. Information packages may be requested up until Friday, July 19, 2024 at 4:30 pm,
• mail or email written submissions to the addresses shown below before Friday, July 19, 2024 at 4:30 pm;
• present verbal submissions at the public hearing.
You must pre-register in order to attend and provide verbal presentations or make comments at the hearing. The deadline to register is Friday, July 19, 2024 at 4:30 pm. Register in advance for this webinar: https://us02web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_r8MnZlnkQP-AEgPi1Vojfg or by visiting www.rdek.bc.ca (Meetings/Minutes, Meetings & Notices page).
Please note that a question and answer period will not occur during the Zoom webinar conference. You must address any questions relating to the bylaws to the Planning Technician prior to the above date. SUBMISSIONS CANNOT BE ACCEPTED AFTER THE PUBLIC HEARING. All submissions will form part of the public record and will be published in a meeting agenda posted online. ersonal contact information such as
and
disclosure of your personal information may be referred to the Corporate Officer at 250-489-2791 or 1-888-478-7335. This notice is not an interpretation of the Bylaws. For more information, contact Krista Gilbert, Planning Technician at 250-489-0314 or toll free at 1-888-478-7335 or email kgilbert@rdek.bc.ca.
Steamboat music festival unites many
The Steamboat Mountain Music Festival in Edgewater on July 5 was a community effort. The weather was perfect, friendships were renewed, and the music was superb. Clockwise from top left: Slone Leman, Smarty Pants (photo by Cheri Hann), John and Roberta, Tryg Strand and the Band, and Gabriel Palatchi (photo by Anne Jardine).
PHOTOS SCOTT POSTLETHWAITE
PIONEER CLASSIFIEDS
Al-Anon. Are you concerned about or affected by someone else’s drinking? For more information or to speak with someone from our fellowship, please call 250-878-2448 or 250-342-8392
Alcoholics Anonymous. If alcohol is causing problems or conflict in your life, AA can help. All meetings are at 7 pm. Columbia United AA, Invermere: Saturday, Sunday, Tuesday and Wednesday at the BC Service Building, South End-624 4th St. Invermere. Please call 250-3422424 for more information or to speak with someone from our fellowship.
Cheers to Kandi at Couture Beauty for the great hairstyle! Cheers to Canal Flats Centex gas station for being 13 cents a litre cheaper than the rest of the valley.
Cheers, cheers, and more cheers to Bill Ark’s letter to the editor in the June 20/24 issue of The Pioneer. Re: op tions for Lake Windermere. Totally agree!
Cheers to Dr. Fahrni for the great chiropractic care you have given me.
Many cheers to all the staff of the Invermere Hospital, who cared for me during my first ever episode of anaphylaxis. I don’t remember the names of the nurses and doctors who were there during the worst part, but I deeply appreciate all you did for me then and overnight.
Cheers to Arnold Malone’s “Canada is an amazing coun try”. The article made me so proud to be Canadian.
Cheers to the family in Ter ra Vista that towed me and my small boat safely back to Timber Ridge.
3 Cheers to Cheri Hann for being way more to us than our house cleaner & checker for many, many years. We will miss you so much, but our loss is The Pioneer’s gain. You are a “gem”. We wish you all the best in your new career.
Kerry-Anne Cabelguen
Kerry-Anne Cabelguen passed away peacefully at her home on March 10, 2024. She leaves behind a dysfunctional family that she was very proud of. She was world-renowned for her lack of patience, not holding back her opinion and a knack for telling it like it is.
Kerry was a dedicated mother, first and foremost. She treasured her children and embraced every moment with them. She especially loved her role as Nana.
Kerry is the loving and devoted mother of Crystal, Blaire and Ryan Cabelguen; cherished wife of Raymond Cabelguen; adored Nana of Anais Cabelguen and Lily Harrison; dear sister of Kelly Leclaire, Lana Maione, Kent Leclaire and Lorel Lowe; beloved daughter of Ron and Gloria Leclaire.
Albert “Earl” Barbour
It is with heavy hearts that we announce the Passing of Albert “Earl” Barbour at
A lifelong resident of Wilmer, Earl was born during the great depression and endured the harsh conditions of food rationing during the second world war.
Earl grew up working on the family farm located west of Wilmer, eventually taking control after the death of his father. To supplement his farming income, Earl worked as a big game hunting guide and cutting Christmas trees.
TRUE KEY VACATIONS
Unlock the Earning Potential of Your Vacation Home!
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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
Earl lived a simple and frugal life and was most proud of his pioneering heritage of the Barbour family. He was a passionate defender of the “keeping Jumbo wild” movement and he cherished the ruggedness and natural beauty of the Jumbo wilderness area and wanted it saved for the enjoyment of future generations.
Earl is survived by many nieces and nephews and grand nieces and grand nephews. He was predeceased by his parents James and Mabel Barbour and Uncle Ed Barbour which he was very close to, his brother Harold Barbour and sisters Edna Godlien, Ellen Hall, Dorothy Quinn and Ann Stevenson.
A memorial service will be announced at a later date.
In lieu of flowers a memorial donation can be made to the Windermere Valley Museum.
LESSONS at Fairmont Hot Springs with Rocky Mountain Swim lessons. Book online at rockymountainswimlessons.ca
IN MEMORIAM
Big Horn Café
Radium Hot Springs
Looking for Full time and/ or Part time Asst. Baker - if you’re passionate about baking and quality we have an opportunity for you. If you’re interested in joining a dynamic fun team. Shifts are during the day, there is some flexibility as to the shift
– definitely No evenings. Negotiable per hour wage and benefits. Please apply at bighorncafe1@outlook. com or phone 403-861-2978
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
In loving memory of
Greyson James Tufts
September 29, 1998 – July 17, 2021
Always loved and missed, forever one short. We are so proud of all the good you inspire.
Love you lots Mum, Dad and the entire clan.
ACREAGE FOR SALE
ACREAGES FOR SALE
Last four acreages in Elkhorn Country Estates. 2.5 to 2.89 acre parcels. Individual wells, no building time commitment. Starting at $329,000 + GST For more information, contact Elkhorn Ranches: 250-342-1267 www.elkhornranches.com
APARTMENTS / CONDOS FOR RENT
Condo for rent in Radium 2 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, fully furnished, 2 underground parking stalls, laundry room. $1600 per month. Available Sept 1st. Call 403-999-2783
LOST
Lost: Green Emerald Pendant in Gold Setting. Lost on either Findlay Falls Trail or Source of the Columbia Trail (Canal Flats) on approx. May 25th. If found please contact Janice at kootenay22@gmail.com
Be safe on the water: CVSAR
Columbia Valley Pioneer staff
Columbia Valley Search and Rescue urge people to be safe when venturing on the water. The crew recently assisted Kimberley in a mutual aid call to search for a missing individual on a waterway.
The next day the Columbia Valley crew were called out for paddlers in distress on the Kootenay River. Before people venture out on the water, plan your trip and check the weather forecast. And make sure you have the basic paddling skills required for your journey. Better yet, seek out experienced paddlers or guides.
Columbia Valley Search and Rescue urges people to plan ahead, check the forecast, and have basic paddling skills before heading out on the water. Shown here is a training exercise in swiftwater rescue.
Quilt of Valour given to CWO
Submitted by Cindy Postnikoff
On behalf of Quilts of Valour Canada it is a real pleasure to acknowledge and honour the service of Chief Warrant Officer Howie Williams (retired). Howie served in the Royal Canadian Air Force for
Shown here is Howie Williams accepting his Quilt of Valour from Cindy Postnikoff.
PHOTO SAPPER DALUM
36 years.
We thank Howie for his service and hope he feels all the love and gratitude that was stitched into his beautiful quilt.
The quilt was made by Haleen Johnstone, Mary Frick and Jan Simmonds from Kimberley.
PHOTO CVSAR
Columbia Valley Churches
Let us dwell together in unity
Pastor Wayne Frater Radium Christian Fellowship
Part of this article was something I shared a number of years ago, but it is close to my heart.
Psalm 133:1 says: “Behold, how good and how pleasant it is for brethren to dwell together in unity.”
Did you know the Lord tells us, that blessing come upon us when we are at peace, or in harmony with our bothers and sisters in the Lord? As believers in the saving grace of our Lord Jesus Christ, we are called to work together in unity in order to fulfill God’s purpose. We are called to serve one another in love and serve together to fulfill what God has called us to do.
A couple of weeks ago I was invited to join with some of the guys from one of the other churches, we fellowshipped together, prayed together and had some good Bible teaching from Pastor Bill.
While I was there I shared about another time when the churches were together in harmony; there was a need, and all the churches in the valley came together. The place was Sunshine Ranch on the west side of Lake Windermere, the long weekend in May, over 5000 young people in one place for one reason: to party.
The churches came together to pray, 24 hours a day they prayed for the salvation of those young people, and for the protection of those that were going there to minister. They took food, water, some tents,
For as long as I have been your MLA, I have been listening to constituents about concerns on wildlife management in Columbia River-Revelstoke and throughout the province.
BC United has announced a groundbreaking initiative to fund and reform fish and wildlife management in British Columbia, marking the largest commitment in the province’s 152-year history.
BC United pledges an unprecedented $100 million to revitalize declining populations of B.C.’s iconic species and their habitats. This funding is part of a larger $200 million strategy developed by industry experts to sustainably manage the province’s cherished natural resources used for hunting, fishing, and viewing. Our plan sets a gold standard for conservation by ensuring that future generations will enjoy and cherish B.C.’s natural beauty just as we do today. We are putting real value on our wildlife, and we are taking decisive, science-based actions to preserve our biodiversity.
BC United will establish an independent funding model, managed by a new agency that includes title holders and stakeholders. This model aims to maximize provincial funds by attracting support from NGOs, local governments, businesses, and through innovative means such as wildlife license plates and fines.
first aid equipment, and Pastor Jim brought his motorhome, equipped with mobile phone (no cell phones in those days). Pastor Bill brought his guitar; they set up a sound system and they reached out to those young people — food, water, and the love of God.
Christian brothers and sisters, from different churches, were there day and night, in harmony, praying, worshipping God, and reaching out with God’s love. They even set up a huge white cross, which could be seen from all over the ranch to let those kids know where they could find help.
God was there; this happened not just for one year, but over a number of years: young people came to know the saving grace of Jesus Christ, and some that were saved one year would be back the following year to share what God was doing in their lives. Some went on to be pastors and took the good news of Jesus Christ to the nations. Words cannot express the experience.
I can still see brother Joe, open Bible on his knee telling a young man that he really needed Jesus in his life.
There was a need; the churches came together to pray, they were in harmony.
Today there is a need —a whole new generation of young people, all around us, need to hear about the saving grace of our Lord Jesus Christ.
Do you want to see revival in our land?
We need to do two things, as it says in Psalm 133:1: “How wonderful and pleasant it is when brothers live together in harmony.” And we need to pray.
With this historic investment, we’re not just pledging funds, we are committing to a complete transformation in how we manage our natural heritage. This is about ensuring that every dollar from hunting and angling licences is reinvested directly into the wildlife and habitats that make British Columbia so unique.
The initiative also addresses urgent threats such as chronic wasting disease, invasive species, and wildfire risks, integrating these into a holistic approach that involves all sectors of society.
Moreover, BC United’s commitment extends to restructuring government oversight of natural resources. The plan includes centralizing fish, wildlife, and habitat management within a dedicated ministry, ensuring that sustainable practices are at the forefront of provincial governance and are not undermined by other resource-based legislation.
This isn’t just an investment in fish and wildlife, it’s an investment in the future of British Columbia. By reforming our approach to environmental management, we’re taking a critical step towards preserving our province’s ecological integrity and biodiversity.
I want to hear from you about any concerns you have about this or any other issue. I read every email I receive. Please reach out to me at doug.clovechok. mla@leg.bc.ca or call my office in Kimberley at (250) 432-2300 or Revelstoke at (250) 805-0323.
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
