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COMING EVENTS
LOCAL NEWS
VALLEY NEWS
Revised MNBC plan heads to second PH
Columbia Valley Pioneer staff
An alternate development proposal by Métis Nation British Columbia for 1102-13th Street in Invermere may be the compromise that council and the community have been looking for.
At its July 9 meeting, council gave first and second reading to new amendment bylaws for the revised housing plan, which is heading to a second public hearing in September.
Council members discussed the alternate plan put forth by Métis Nation BC (MNBC) in partnership with the Columbia Valley Métis Association.
The groups previously proposed to build a four-storey multi-family housing development including 36 dwelling units, plus a 3,000 square foot (280 square metre) cultural community building on 13th Street. But after some pushback from neighbouring residents and a request from council to come back with an alternate plan, the developers did just that.
Invermere’s Director of Development Services Rory Hromadnik said the “substantially revised” proposal is now three storeys with 41 dwelling units, but minus the community building which has been dropped from the plan.
“The new building plans show the structure set back from nearby roadways to provide for more on-site outdoor space,” Hromadnik outlined in his report.
He noted that district staff support moving forward with the Official Community Plan and Zoning Bylaw amendments, which will require a new public consultation process in the form of another public hearing.
Architect for the project, Amit Price Patel, said the development will provide a mix of one, two, and three-bedroom units prioritized for Métis families and other Indigenous community members.
He explained the application proposes to amend the Official Community Plan (OCP) future land use designation from planned residential to multi-fami-
ly (high density) residential. In addition, to amend the zoning from R-2 low density residential to comprehensive development zone-6.
Patel said the project team has worked diligently to address the feedback (from the April public hearing) by lowering the height of the building to three storeys and omitting the proposed cultural community building.
The architect also noted they are reducing the overlook of the building and increasing privacy; windows and balconies have been limited on the west-facing elevations. The roof is now proposed as a gable (pitched) style roof.
“We feel that the proposed development is well aligned with the general intent of the OCP and meets several objectives and policies of the OCP,” Patel said in his report to council.
Patel pointed out they will be constructing a sidewalk along 11th Avenue to connect the site to the existing sidewalk infrastructure on 10th Street.
Bicycle infrastructure will also be included in the design, with Class 1 and Class 2 bicycle parking for residents.
Invermere councillor Kayja Becker told the Pioneer that council believes there are enough changes in the plan to warrant another hearing.
“I appreciate the work that MNBC has done to update the project as it shows a willingness to make it make sense in the community. Now we will see if the public feels they’ve addressed the concerns enough,” Becker said.
Fellow councillor Gerry Taft said much of the previous opposition was over the four storeys in the initial application. “It will be very interesting to see if this removes opposition to the rezoning or whether people raise different concerns.”
Taft noted that council needs to keep an open mind up to the end of the next public hearing and is anticipating to hear the feedback from residents before making any decisions.
“It sounds like MNBC will also do further public engagement sessions pri-
or to the public hearing and it is hoped that they will have some additional artists renderings and/or models and as much detail as possible to help the public to visualize what is being proposed
with the zoning change,” said Taft.
The Pioneer was unable to solicit a comment from Mayor Al Miller by press time Tuesday.
In the July 11 editorial on page 6 — ‘We are all in same boat’ — it stated that the Lake Windermere Ambassadors (LWA) acknowledged that large wakes from big boats are not a big issue on Lake Windermere.
That is opposite of what the LWA have repeatedly said at presentations to council and in various articles in the newspaper.
LWA Chair Taoya Schaefer said the reference in the editorial undermines
the work they are doing to protect the ecological values of the lake.
“It is the large wakes that cause erosion, swamping of bird nests, damage to infrastructure, and make other users of the lake feel unsafe, as well as scouring of the soft lake bottom, which releases heavy metals and toxins into the water column as well as increasing turbidity and phosphorus levels,” she stated.
The Pioneer apologizes for the error.
This previous site drawing for the MNBC housing proposal has been revised to reflect a three-storey building.
RCMP REPORT
Bright New Minds Child Care Society is happy to now offer Preschool and Out of School care.
Preschool runs from September to June with classes from 9:00am to 1:00pm.
Four-year-olds attend Monday, Wednesday, and Friday.
Three-year-olds attend Tuesday and Thursday.
Please email bnmpreschool@gmail.com for more information or to register.
Autistic child wanders off
Sgt. Ed deJong Columbia Valley RCMP
This past week, July 8 to 15, the Columbia Valley RCMP responded to 100 calls for service.
On July 8 police were called to a six-year-old child wandering on Highway 93/95 by himself. The caller kept an eye on the child until members were able to arrive and determine the child was autistic and had wandered off from a family campsite after figuring out how to open the gates designed to keep him safe. The family was out frantically looking for the boy and police were able to reunite them.
On July 8 RCMP responded to a two-vehicle collision on Highway 93/95 near Lakeview Drive in Wind-
Lake Windermere
Police obtained witness statements indicating the driver of a northbound vehicle was passing multiple cars unsafely and veered suddenly back into his lane to avoid a head-on collision, resulting in him rear-ending a vehicle and flipping end over end into the ditch. Police formed grounds to believe the driver may have been impaired by drugs and obtained blood samples for analysis. The investigation is ongoing.
On July 14 police received a report of a grey 2020 Dodge 3500 pickup with Wyoming plates stolen from Canyon RV Resort.
The keys were left in the unlocked vehicle. If you see this vehicle please call the Columbia Valley RCMP and don’t approach it.
Pulse Check
Submitted by Lake Windermere Ambassadors July 10, 2024
Average Water Temperature: 22.4°C
Average Water Depth: 4.9m
Average Turbidity: 0.9 NTU
Average D.O.: 9.9 mg/L
Average pH: 7.6
Summer is in full swing! Water temperature has risen an average of 3.8 degrees since last week and the water was clear and calm throughout the lake.
Visibility through the water column was high and we noticed pollen on the surface of the water.
Thank you to the District of Invermere for supplying our boat.
To join the Ambassadors out on the lake
on a Wednesday morning this summer, please contact us at (250) 341-6898 or intern@lakeambassadors.ca
ermere.
Hope expressed for modernized treaty
Columbia Valley Pioneer staff
Local Indigenous groups are holding out hope for a modernized Columbia River Treaty and what that will mean for the ecology and First Nations people.
The Canadian government and the United States have reached an agreement-in-principle (AIP) that provides a clear road map for negotiation teams to draft a renewed treaty while seeking feedback from Columbia River Basin residents.
The Columbia River Treaty has played a crucial role in reducing flood damage and providing clean energy to millions of households, businesses and industries in both Canada and the United States.
It is understood that a modernized treaty will provide some level of assured pre-planned flood control and continued cooperation on hydropower for the Columbia River. The countries have also agreed to incorporate new provisions including those for increased flexibility for how BC operates its treaty dams, ecosystem health, restoring and strengthening salmon populations, and Indigenous cultural values.
Since 2012, the province has been connecting with people to hear their concerns about the original treaty and their views about how it could be improved.
The Ktunaxa, Secwépemc and Syilx Okanagan Nations have helped shape Canada's priorities and objectives for the AIP.
These three nations continue to provide valuable contributions toward the modernization of the treaty and continue to be instrumental in leading efforts to integrate ecosystem health, Indigenous cultural values into a modernized treaty, and the restoration of salmon into the BC portion of the Columbia Basin.
The AIP enables BC to continue receiving a share of the additional hydroelectric power potential in the U.S. as a result of how the province operates its treaty dams, and includes newly negotiated access to U.S. transmission infrastructure. It also provides annual compensation from the U.S. for a reduced volume of reservoir space for flood-risk management and for other benefits the U.S. receives, including benefits to irrigation, navigation, recreation and fish-population enhancements in the U.S. portion of the Columbia Basin.
Kathryn Teneese, council chair of the Ktunaxa Nation, said they recognize the important milestone on reaching the AIP.
“While we continue with our sacred duty to protect ? a-kxam’is q’api qapsin (all living things), we look forward to continuing to work with Canada, BC and our Indigenous nations partners towards a renewed Columbia River Treaty in which Ktunaxa title, rights and interests are addressed."
Kukpi7 (Tribal Chief) Rosanne Casimir said, "The Secwepemc along with the Ktunaxa and Syilx Okanagan are steadfast in protecting Indigenous title and rights, our cultural values and improving ecological health in the negotiations.”
She also said they support the transboundary collaboration that is necessary for the reintroduction of salmon.
“With good faith, commitment and adherence to a ‘one river’ approach by all, we believe we will conclude a modernized Columbia River Treaty in a manner that advances reconciliation."
Chief Keith Crow, lead for the Syilx Okanagan Nation Chiefs Executive Council, said the Syilx Okanagan Nation recognizes the decades of protection efforts, ceremonies and years of hard negotiations that went into the AIP.
“We still have lots of work to do with Canada and BC to start addressing the past and ongoing impacts to our lands, waters and people. But I now have real hope that one day, as a result of our efforts, I will see my grandchildren and other future generations exercising their rights harvesting n’ty’tyix (salmon) in the nxw’ ntkwitkw (Upper Columbia region)."
Kat Hartwig, Living Lakes Canada Executive Director, said the agreement-in-principal recognizes a broader range of voices and values than previously. She expressed her hope that the treaty leads to improved protection for freshwater ecosystems in the Columbia Basin.
Katrine Conroy, B.C. Minister Responsible for the Columbia River Treaty, said modernizing the treaty is a once-in-a-generation chance to look beyond the original treaty's goals of power generation and floodrisk management.
Community mourns deaths
Columbia Valley Pioneer staff
A tragic and heartbreaking motor vehicle accident took the lives of three individuals in the Columbia Valley last week.
On July 9 at approximately 10:30 p.m., RCMP responded to a report of a single-vehicle collision on Westside Road, near Panorama Drive in Wilmer.
Upon arrival, first responders located a vehicle which had driven off the highway and down an embankment.
RCMP spokesperson James Grandy said the driver was taken to hospital with serious, non-life-threaten-
ing injuries, while three passengers were sadly pronounced deceased. Police say all of the deceased were male in their early 20s; one male was local, while the other two were from Alberta.
According to Grandy, speed and intoxication are believed to be contributing factors in the collision.
The crash knocked out power lines, which led to a power interruption in the community.
“RCMP offers their condolences to the families affected in this tragic incident,” Grandy said.
The Columbia Valley RCMP, along with assistance from BC Highway Patrol and the BC Coroners Service continue to investigate.
People are optimistic that a renewed Columbia River Treaty will lead to an improved ecosystem.
Miscarriage of justice
Yet another miscarriage of justice has been perpetrated against society, particularly high-risk Indigenous youth.
Former social worker Robert Saunders, the man who bilked more than 20 youth under his care, was originally sentenced to five years in jail. Well, after serving less than 15 months behind bars, he has now been granted full parole. What? (We wish this was an editing error, but it’s not.)
Saunders, who initially faked his credentials to get the job, stole more than $460,000 (from the Ministry of Children and Family Development), that was meant for vulnerable youth under his trust. He used these funds to support his own lifestyle while the disadvantaged youth scraped by.
When you sentence someone to a five-year jail term for a serious crime, it should be a five-year sentence. Don’t mislead the people into thinking justice has been served.
How can anyone hold a sliver of faith in a legal system that continues to cater to perpetrators through leniency? The next Robert Saunders will look at this outcome and say, “Look at that, he got full parole after 14 months; that’s not too bad.”
No deterrence whatsoever.
Yes, Saunders has paid a price, but not nearly enough. The First Nations Leadership Council is outraged by the Parole Board’s decision, and rightfully so. The fact is Indigenous Peoples have been victimized by the legal system for many years.
Saunders will move on and recover from all of this after a few years, but his victims will continue to live with the grief and systemic oppression that his crime exacerbated.
Lyonel Doherty, editor
Kids’ artisanal merit queried
On June 22 my children sold their hand-crafted jewelry at the Invermere Farmers Market.
Since young children are not able to purchase a vendor stall at the market, I did that on their behalf. Over a period of four months, they had made many beautiful necklaces and bracelets from scratch using specialty tools, wire, clasps, and hundreds of beads made of glass, metal and plastic. They also made hundreds of custom keychains from scratch using two-component resin, varying not only in colour but also featuring artistic finishes such as handwritten messages and colourful artifacts within the resin.
Many people stopped by to admire the beautiful hand-crafted designs and the artistic variations of the jewelry, as well as all the hard labour that had gone into making them.
Five days later the organizers of the Invermere Farmers Market sent us an email, in which they alleged that “some of the jewelry offered for sale at the market had been store bought and had little artisanal merit,” and stated that we should “refrain from sales of these products.” They provided no evidence. They did not accept an invitation to meet and discuss this wrongful allegation. And they provided no apology. My children felt disrespected and very disappointed after hearing about this.
Who gets to determine what has “artisanal merit?” Which products at the market are truly not made from basic items that have been bought at some store? Are children not welcome to sell at the market? Maybe the organization of this market is in need of a review.
Timm Stein, Timber Ridge
Boucher
PHOTO WERNER SCHNELL/GETTY IMAGES
LETTERS
Non-residents allowed to exploit beauty
I would like to thank Len and Nicola Ramsey for their extremely insightful letter in the July 4 issue of the Columbia Valley Pioneer highlighting the issues with short-term rentals (STRs) in the RDEK.
My husband and I are full-time residents in Area G and at the risk of sounding repetitive, we are experiencing these same issues.
As described in the letter, numerous residents on our street also submitted emails of protest outlining what we considered valid concerns regarding an STR application, which were ultimately ignored. Although we received acknowledgment of receipt of these emails, none of the concerns were addressed and we ultimately learned that the STR had been approved.
We recently noted that the new owner (a Calgarian) of a larger home on our street has advertised on Airbnb and has allegedly not applied for nor
obtained a licence from the RDEK. As stated in the July 4 letter, there does not seem to be any method of dealing with those who do not follow the regulations.
It is unfortunate that the RDEK is allowing non-residents to exploit the natural beauty of our area simply to make money. Whereas we have always looked out for one another on our street and quickly identified strangers, vehicle traffic has almost doubled and we no longer have the ability to maintain the peace and quiet of our neighbourhood.
While the BC provincial government has identified and taken steps to control the issues caused by STRs, it seems the RDEK in its infinite wisdom has chosen not only to disregard the issues but actively support those who are causing the problems.
We chose this area to live because it is, as we can only describe it, God's country. The wildlife, the forest, the peace and quiet is unsurpassed - or at
Lake survey was flawed
I read the article about the survey conducted by the Lake Windermere Ambassadors; interesting but severely flawed.
For the most accurate results, the survey should have been conducted from June through to the middle of August when the majority of summer residents are here in the valley. Even a simple survey of the type of boats in use,
moored in marinas, on lifts or anchored at mooring balls would have had far different results than those gathered in the LWA survey.
The survey was a good idea, however, the results are inaccurate and do not really give an accurate picture of the summer activities on the lake.
Rob and Judy Dawson, St. Albert
least it was. When an area is zoned residential, why are these businesses being allowed?
If anyone reading my comments has not read the letter by Len and Nico-
la Ramsey, I would ask that you do so. I feel it is very perceptive and perfectly outlines my thoughts as I am sure it does many others.
Judy Fowler, Area G
NOTICE OF NOMINATION
Public Notice is given to the electors of the Village of Canal Flats that nominations for the office of Councillor (1) for the balance of a 4-year term ending October 2026 will be received by the Chief Election Officer or Deputy Election Officer as follows: Sylvie Hoobanoff, Chief Election Officer Laura Favreau, Deputy Chief Election Officer Village of Canal Flats 8866 Grainger Road Canal Flats, BC V0B 1B0
From 9:00am on Tuesday July 30, 2024 until 4:00pm on Friday, August 9, 2024
Nomination forms and related information is available from the Village of Canal Flats website at www.canalflats.ca or in person at the Village of Canal Flats office during regular office hours 8:30am to 4:30pm, Monday through Friday (closed from 12:00pm to 1:00pm) to the close of the nomination period.
DEADLINE FOR RECEIPT OF NOMINATIONS IS 4:00PM ON FRIDAY, AUGUST 9, 2024.
QUALIFICATIONS FOR OFFICE
A person is qualified to be nominated, elected, and to hold office as a member of local government if they meet the following criteria:
• Canadian citizen;
• 18 years of age or older on general voting day (September 14, 2024);
• resident of British Columbia for at least 6 months immediately before the day nomination papers are filed;
• not disqualified under the Local Government Act or any other enactment from voting in an election in British Columbia or being nominated for, being elected to or holding the office, or be otherwise disqualified by law.
CAMPAIGN PERIOD EXPENSE LIMITS
In accordance with the Local Election Campaign Financing Act, the expense limit for candidates during the campaign period for this by-election is $5,398.92, and the third party advertising limit is $809.84. Information on campaign period expense limits and third party advertising limits can be found at electionsbc.bc.ca or call Elections BC at 1-888-952-0280
FURTHER INFORMATION on the on the nomination process or the by-election, please contact:
Sylvie Hoobanoff, Chief Election Officer
sylvie.hoobanoff@canalflats.ca | 250-349-5462
Laura Favreau, Deputy Chief Election Officer laura.favreau@canalflats.ca | 250-349-5462
P.O. Box 159, 8866 Grainger Road, Canal Flats, BC, V0B 1B0 Phone: 250-349-5462 Fax: 250-349-5460 Email: village@canalflats.ca
PHOTO DAN BRANDENBURG/GETTY IMAGES
No need to sort recycling this fall under new deal
By Steve Hubrecht steve@columbiavalleypioneer.com
There will be a new recycling regime in Invermere soon.
The District of Invermere will enter into an agreement with Recycle BC to provide curbside recycling here beginning on Nov. 1 this year. Invermere council unanimously supported the move at a recent council meeting.
Currently recycling is run through the Regional District of East Kootenay (RDEK)’s yellow bin program, but “the RDEK wants to phase the yellow bin program out over the next few years,” explained Invermere corporate officer Kindry Luyendyk.
There is a cost increase of about $32 per Invermere household entailed in the switch from the yellow bin recycling program to Recycle BC’s. But there will be savings too, which should amount to somewhere between $33 to $37 per household.
“So it’s basically a wash,” said Luyendyk.
Residents will still put their bins out for curbside collection, but there will be some slight differences — the most notably convenient of which is that acceptable recyclables do not need to be sorted at all, and can simply be loosely packed into the familiar blue bins.
Luyendyk explained that district staff are closely watching other B.C. communities that are switching to
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.
Invermere will enter into an agreement with RecycleBC to provide curbside recycling services beginning November 1. There is a cost increase of about $32 per Invermere household entailed in the switch from the yellow bin program to Recycle BC’s.
Recycle BC to see what they are doing to educate their residents about what can and can’t be recycled.
Councillor Grant Kelly emphasized the importance of getting that aspect right. He related that he recently helped clean up garbage left out by a neighbour, which had been spilled by ravens and which Kelly worried might attract bears. As Kelly cleaned up, he noticed that his neighbour was throwing “quite a bit” of recycling in the garbage.
“We need to find some way to up that game of education,” said Kelly.
Another difference in the new recycling regime is that Recycle BC “is able to collect more things,” new Invermere environmental planner Amy Fletcher explained to the Pioneer. “For instance, there are more
plastic items that will be able to go into curbside collection.”
But, readers take note – no plastic bags of any sort can be put in the recycling. As with the yellow bin program, Recycle BC will not accept any glass containers in curbside recycling — those can be taken to the bottle depot (if they are glass bottles) or to the transfer station (other glass containers) in Athalmer.
In general though, the switch should be fairly straightforward, summarized Fletcher; residents will still use the blue recycling bins used under the current yellow bin program, and curbside collection will remain on the same day, and will still happen once every two weeks.
Yard waste bin may return
By Steve Hubrecht steve@columbiavalleypioneer.com
The District of Invermere hopes to have another yard waste collection bin in the fall, as it did this past spring, but may make a few changes.
The communal collection bin was put out by the district as a spot for Invermere residents to drop off grass clippings, branches and other backyard organic debris. It was set up in late March in the old community hall parking lot (which is currently a large gravel parking lot) for several weeks. The hope was that by making it more convenient for Invermere residents to get rid of these kinds of materials (which normally need to be taken to the Windermere landfill), they would do a better job of keeping their yards FireSmart.
It may seem like a relatively small measure, but yard waste such as piles of old pine needles, dead branches and the like are perfect places for a small blaze to quickly grow into a raging fire. With last year’s record-setting wildfire season still in mind, municipal officials are keen for everyone to do everything they can to make fires less likely to start and (if they do start) less likely to spread in Invermere.
“We did have some success . . . it was very popular,” said Invermere director of public works and operations Angela MacLean. “Unfortunately it was also very popular with contractors as well as the public.”
MacLean outlined a desire to set the bin out this fall as well, but with a few tweaks to help ensure that it is residents instead of businesses that are filling the bin.
One of those tweaks could be having neighbour-
hood pickups instead of a single large bin in a centralized location.
That would “give a bit more control (for the District of Invermere),” explained MacLean.
Invermere Mayor Al Miller supported the idea of neighbourhood pickup points.
“Not everyone has the kind of vehicle you need to haul yard waste to a centralized location, let alone to the landfill. If there are (neighbourhood pickup points) that makes it easier for people to get their yard waste out of their yard. That is better for Invermere,” he said.
School district appoints new superintendent
Columbia Valley Pioneer staff
A new superintendent has been hired to oversee Rocky Mountain School District No. 6.
Aaron Callaghan has been appointed the role, taking over for acting superintendent Steve Wyer and former superintendent Karen Shipka who left the position earlier this year.
The board says Callaghan brings with him a wealth of K-12 experiences, and his commitment to equity, innovation and student success “aligns perfectly” with the values and goals of the district.
Callaghan is a long-time educator with diverse leadership experience, most recently serving as superintendent of Coast Mountains School District No. 82 based in Terrace.
Prior to that he held both school and district senior leadership roles in the Chignecto-Central Regional School Board in Nova Scotia.
Over a 10-year period he served as district consultant, coordinator and
then director responsible for student success planning, program implementation and inclusive education across more than 65 schools.
Throughout his career, Callaghan has championed a number of key system initiatives, including healthy school food programming, universal literacy screening, and inclusive education and new teacher recruitment and retention.
"We are thrilled to welcome Mr. Callaghan to our district," said Amber Byklum, school board chair. "His dedication to educational equity and his vision for empowering both students and educators will inspire positive change within our communities."
Callaghan said he is grateful for the opportunity to join the school district and to work with everyone to support the success of every student.
"I am excited to see what we can collectively accomplish,” he stated.
The board wishes to thank Wyer for his “exemplary leadership” over the last several months during the search for a new superintendent.
Campfire ban now on
Columbia
Valley Pioneer staff
It goes without saying that anyone who lights a campfire during these hot weather conditions is risking a lot. But as of July 12, that risk went way up.
The BC Wildfire Service (BCWS) has implemented a province-wide campfire ban to address the hightened wildfire hazard.
This prohibition was enacted to help prevent human-caused wildfires and to protect public safety.
To learn more about what goes into a campfire prohibition watch: https:// www.youtube.com/watch?v=7qMb -
j5MGQQY&t=28s
The BCWS thanks everyone for being responsible with any activity that could potentially spark a new wildfire and the devastation it could bring to communities and the families who live there.
The BCWS encourages people to be vigilant and report new wildfire starts, unattended campfires or open burning violations.
To stay up to date on fire bans and restrictions in your area, visit: https:// www2.gov.bc.ca/…/pre…/fire-bansand-restrictions
Aaron Callaghan is the new superintendent of Rocky Mountain School District No. 6. He brings a wealth of educational experience to the role. PHOTO
OUT OF OFFICE…
Valley Appreciation Day
It’s about that time again; the heat is upon us, and so is Valley Appreciation Day! Saturday July 20th from 9am-1pm downtown Invermere will be transformed into a celebration of everything that the Columbia Valley has to offer! This is the 35th annual event (and I’m not saying I remember the first one, because that would make me old…) and the event has grown and evolved over the years to encompass everything that makes us love this valley.
Valley Appreciation Day is presented by the District of Invermere with support from the Downtown Invermere Business Committee and local contributors.
The Event features:
› A main stage at 7th Ave & 13th St intersection showcasing local bands and a variety of entertainment.
› Columbia Valley Service Clubs
complementary Pancake Breakfast on 13th St in front of the Invermere Legion from 9am-Noon. Take special note of the sausage area, as that’s where you will find your friendly Chamber of Commerce Board members volunteering their time – you get to have a sausage and say hello!
› Sections of 7th Ave, 12th St & 13th StFamily fun, games, activities, demos and sidewalk sales from our local businesses and community groups.
› Invermere Farmers and Artists Market located in the Lakeview Parking Lot with vendors offering great food, clothing, accessories, gifts and more.
› Patios open at local restaurants serving great food and refreshing drinks.
The District of Invermere will be closing sections of 7th Avenue, a section of 12th
Street & 13th Street as well as the regular closure of the Lakeview Parking lot for the Invermere Farmers and Artists Market. This means that there will be no overnight parking in these areas, so plan accordingly! The 12th street Plaza will be bustling and exciting with much needed shade and seating, so stop by and enjoy the latest Downtown Invermere vibrancy initiative by the Invermere Business Committee.
This event is long-standing, and its ongoing success depends on what makes our little valley amazing – community! The District of Invermere working with local business and service clubs and volunteers and visitors and locals together make this event one to remember! See you there!
-Deanna Berrington
Thursday, July 18
7:00pm: Alex Tells Jokes Comedy Show. Columbia Valley Centre. Get tickets at alextellsjokes.com Alex Mackenzie’s style of comedy is upbeat and positive, with a focus on spreading happiness and making people feel good. His down-to-earth personality and his ability to create infectious laughter have earned him a reputation as one of Canada’s must-see comedians. Mackenzie is often recognized in public and asked to move his RV.
• 9:00am-12:00pm: Pickleball Mt Nelson Athletic Park. Drop-in.
• 10:30am-11:30am: Senior’s Fitness Columbia Valley Centre, $2 drop-in.
• 10:30am-11:00am: Storytime in Edgewater. Edgewater Community Hall Park. Join Radium Public Library for stories, songs, and a craft! Geared towards preschool ages but all are welcome!
• 11:15am-12:30pm: World of Curiosities; Edgewater Summer Reading Club. Edgewater Community Hall Park. Join Radium Public Library for this FREE bi-weekly program with fun crafts and activities for ages 5-12. Registration is required: info@radiumbclibrary.ca
• 2:00pm-3:00pm: Needles & Hooks. Invermere Public Library Mezzanine. Join us on the 1st & 3rd Thursday of each month at 2:00pm for Needles & Hooks. Bring your current yarn project and meet with other makers. All welcome!
• 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 Public 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-9:30pm: Trivia Night Windermere Whitehouse Pub. Host Mandi Cox $3/person, teams of more than 6 will be split into two groups. Ages 19+
Friday, July 19
• 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: Spiderweb Park.
4:30pm-11:00pm: Bull Riding in the Rockies. Across from Eddie Mountain Memorial Arena. Dust off your boots and come join us for the 24th annual Bill McIntosh Memorial Bull Riding in the Rockies, the largest fundraiser of the year for your Columbia Valley Rockies Hockey organization! Buy your tickets: www.showpass.com/cv-rockies-bull-riding-2024
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 ‘Jade Elephant’.
• 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.
• 10:30am-2:30pm: World of Curiosities; Radium Summer Reading Club. Radium Public 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 20
• 9:00am-1:00pm: Valley Appreciation Day. A fun-filled family event focusing on appreciation for all the wonderful things the valley has to offer. This event includes the annual Service Club pancake breakfast, Farmers & Artist Market, live music, family activities, interactive games and more!
• 10:30am-11:00am: Family Storytime; Indigenous Story Time Invermere Public Library. Join us for a Story Time for ALL AGES Hosted by special guests Tisha Tardif and Robyn Tardif of the Secwépemc Nation.
• 6:30pm-10:00pm: East Coast Kitchen Party and Dance. Edgewater Franks Rink. Featuring Gordon Stobbe and JJ Guy. There will be single, partner and called dances. Something for everyone... no dancing experience necessary! We will also have a silent auction and a beer and wine garden. Being the whole family! Tickets by donation at Pips Country Store and Bighorn Cafe. A whole lot of fun for one night!
9:00am-12:00pm: Pickleball Mt Nelson Athletic Park. Drop-in.
• 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 Public Library to sign up.
• 6:30pm: Meat Draw and 50/50 in the Legion! Members and guests welcome!
Sunday, July 21
2:00pm: Cards, Cribbage and Darts Come to the Legion and have some fun! Members and guests welcome.
7:00pm-9:00pm: Live Music Horsethief Creek Pub & Eatery. Accompanied minors are permitted. No cover.
7:30pm: Dads Matter. Zoom meeting with host Ben Postmus. Dads connecting, Dads Supporting, Dads Inspiring. Do you have a son or daughter with Diverse Abilities? So do I. diversefamilyroots@gmail.com
Monday, July 22
• 6:00pm-8:00pm: Grand Opening! Fairmont Community Garden and Pickleball Courts. Wilder Memorial Gardens in Wills Road. A free BBQ for those attending. Gather at the Gazebo in the Community Garden. Please bring a lawn chair for yourself. Come and celebrate with the Fairmont Lions and the Community Gardeners. Enjoy the Pickleball Courts, stroll through the Memorial Garden.
• 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: The Call of the Wild.
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.
• 6:30pm: Poker (Chip up for Charity). The Station Pub $20 buy-in. Every Monday.
• 6:30pm: Duplicate Bridge. Invermere Seniors Hall. Visitors Welcome $2
Tuesday, July 23
• 9:00am-12:00pm: Pickleball Mt Nelson Athletic Park. Drop-in.
• 10:30am-11:30am: Senior’s Fitness Columbia Valley Centre, $2 dropin.
• 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.
• 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 24
• 2:00pm-3:00pm: Teen Art Afternoon. Invermere Public Library. Teens grade 8-12.
Bring a friend and come and get creative at the library - all supplies provided! Registration required. Contact the library to sign up. DIY T-Shirt Tote Bag.
6:00pm-8:00pm: Breathwork for Business. Swansea Ranch by Deep End Studio. Define your personal version of success, quiet your mind, and learn to cultivate sustained focus and clarity through guided breathwork. Purchase tickets at eventbrite
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: Baiden Holland
• 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 drop-in.
• 11:30am-12:00pm: Story Time. Radium Public Library - preschool & all ages.
• 3:00pm-6:30pm: Wednesday Farmers’ Market. Agri park, Hwy 93 across from Copper Point Resort, next to the Chamber of Commerce offices. Featuring farm fresh produce, local meat, eggs, and honey. Chefs, artisans and bakers sell their goods in the historic barn. Live Music.
6:00pm-9:00pm: Wednesday Dinners & Meat Draw & 50/50 Invermere Legion. All welcome.
Splash park to cool off Canal Flats community
By Steve Hubrecht steve@columbivalleypioneer.com
If it’s a hot day in Canal Flats and your kids want to cool off, you have a pair of great options: head to the north end of town and dip into Columbia Lake at the Tilley Memorial Park beach or head to the south and splash around in the pebbly beach along the Kootenay River. But soon — perhaps even as soon as next year — there may be another option right in the middle of the village as the Canal Flats Community Society plans to create a splash park.
The idea comes from a study conducted by the village several years ago, surveying what amenities residents wanted. A splash park was high up the list and the Canal Flats Community Society has been working to make it a reality ever since.
“It would be a place for kids to cool down. The
beach at Tilley does get pretty full in the summer, and since most of the village is within walking distance, they would be able to just wander down to the splash park instead,” Canal Flats Community Society member Shawn Doherty told the Pioneer
The splash park would be built in Lions Park, immediately to the east of the Headwaters Academy Arena. It would be of a smaller size than the splash park at Kinsmen Beach in Invermere, in part because Canal Flats is a smaller community than Invermere, and in part because “splash parks are very expensive to build,” noted Doherty.
The Canal Flats splash park will likely cost around $50,000. The Canal Flats Community Society plans to raise all the funds for the park through grants, donations and other creative fundraising avenues, with no cost for taxpayers.
“Once we raise the funds to make it happen, we
will work with the village on plans and design,” said Doherty. “We hope with grant funding, that we will possibly even be able to start breaking ground next spring or summer.”
Doherty said the society is still figuring out exactly which grants to apply for, noting that aside from the more obvious organization to apply to, such as Columbia Basin Trust (CBT), there are other options. The society has already lined up a contractor — Edmonton-based PlayQuest Recreation — that has experience in building splash parks, and which also has experience in sourcing grant funding to pay for such facilities.
Canal Flats council is enthusiastic about the idea, and has unanimously put their support behind the society. Anyone interested in helping with or donating to the cause can contact Doherty at shawnmdoherty@ hotmail.com.
Freezer fire a lesson
Columbia Valley Pioneer staff
Fairmont firefighters are commending a local couple for their quick, savvy action in extinguishing an appliance fire that could have caused significant damage on July 8.
Columbia Valley Rural Fire & Rescue Service Deputy Chief Jon Tames reported that crews were dispatched to a basement carport where a deep freeze caught fire.
“While the husband took action with a fire extinguisher, the wife immediately called 9-1-1 and we were dispatched. This is a good example about the importance of doing basic fire extinguisher training and knowing how to
properly use an extinguisher when every second counts,” Tames said.
The fire was out when firefighters arrived; however, they did a thorough assessment to ensure there was no other risk. In total, six Fairmont firefighters and three pieces of apparatus responded to the call.
“This is also a good safety reminder for everyone to ensure large appliances are always plugged directly into a wall outlet as they require a stable power flow to function properly,” Tames said.
The deputy chief added that when appliances are plugged into an extension cord, especially during these hot conditions, it dramatically increases the risk of damage or fire to the appliance.
A deep freeze caught fire in Fairmont on July 8, but quick use of a fire extinguisher saved the day.
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Annual report doesn’t excite local residents
By Steve Hubrecht steve@columbiavalleypioneer.com
The District of Invermere’s recently held annual meeting drew limited public response.
The meeting was a chance for the public to ask questions and give feedback on the district’s 2023 annual report, which was made public a few weeks prior (and which was the subject of a Pioneer report at the time). But no members of the public turned up to the meeting in person (although four people came instead for a regularly scheduled council meeting that was held concurrently with the annual meeting). And only one person — local resident Dale Denton — submitted written comments.
Denton wrote a letter to district staff rather than to Invermere, and consequently it was not part of the publicly available documents at the meeting, but Invermere chief administrative officer Andrew Young read parts of the letter aloud to those at the meeting and gave responses to Denton’s queries and comments.
Denton, as paraphrased by Young, wrote that enthusiasm for environmental efforts seems to be declining at the municipal level, aside from generic platitudes.
As evidence, Denton pointed to how the district’s environmental planner position has been vacant for a year, and pointed to a lack of reference in the district’s annual report to the Regional
District of East Kootenay (RDEK)’s cli mate action.
In response Young noted that Inver mere has just recently filled its environ mental planner position, and then list ed off several Invermere projects that either directly or indirectly address cli mate change, including the Abel Creek culvert; the municipal water security study; and the Infrastructure Priorities Plan, which includes raising the height of the dams at Paddy Ryan Reservoir to safeguard the town’s drinking water supply against climate change-related increases in severe storm events.
Young noted that the climate action plan is an RDEK document, not a Dis trict of Invermere document, and that it is normal for the district’s annual report to not reference the RDEK documents and plans.
Denton also raised questions about the district’s new respectful behaviour bylaw, asking why it wasn’t mentioned in the annual report.
Young explained the annual report covers the 2023 calendar year, and not ed that the bylaw was not adopted by Invermere until March 2024.
Although Denton was critical of the district in some of his comments, Inver mere Mayor Al Miller was happy that at least one local resident had taken the time to read the annual report and send in comments.
“It is good to get input,” said Miller, adding he felt Young gave reasonable answers to all the points raised by Den ton.
National Ice Cream Day
JULY 21, 2024
4818 North Street
Serving Stolen Church gelato, made right here in Windermere - talk about fresh and local!
Stay cool among the mature trees and meandering waterways of our 18 hole mini golf, then celebrate your wins (or losses, we won’t judge) with a delicious treat!
Valedictorian says perseverance is the key
Submitted by Lauren Irwin
(The following is the valedictory speech presented by Lauren Irwin on graduation night at David Thompson Secondary School.)
Today, as we celebrate our achievements, I would like to acknowledge that our arrival at tonight’s ceremony could not be possible without the help of so many special people. They stood by us offering encouragement and guidance when we needed it most. Their consistent belief in us fuelled our determination and propelled us forward.
To the teachers, mentors, administrators, coaches, maintenance staff, and bus drivers, especially to those who have gone above and beyond, I thank you. To our families, siblings, grandparents, aunts and uncles, thank you for your endless reassurance and support. To our incredible parents, you've shown us, both in actions and in words, what it means to live authentically through unwavering care, compassion, and love, and for that I genuinely cannot thank you enough. And finally, to all of you, you have been an amazing group of people to spend the last five years with and played a role in getting me to where I am today, and for that I say a big and honest thank you.
As I stand here today, reflecting on the last five years at DTSS, I feel incredible pride and honour for the opportunity to address you all. This is a significant moment, and I found myself wondering what can I offer to my classmates as we transition into the next phase of our lives. With 17 years under my belt, I may not have the decades of wisdom that some do, but what I do have are lessons learned, challenges overcome, and dreams yet to be reached. So, as I contemplated what to centre my speech on tonight, one word kept surfacing that defined me: perseverance. I found this quote, and it captured perfectly what I wished to say: “Success is no accident. It is hard work, perseverance, learning, studying, sacrifice, and most of all, a love of what you are doing or learning to do. - Pele
Perseverance is more than an idea; it is the result of our collective experiences over these past five years. I remember, not too long ago, how we all entered Grade 8, nervous and eager to find our place, only to be put into online learning due to COVID. This was new to everyone, and each of us had to find a way to make this style of learning work.
In Grade 9 we faced even more restrictions, but we persevered through the challenges together; adapting to
new social groups due to cohorts and restrictions on clubs and sports.
In Grade 10 I was in a ski accident, which taught me that perseverance isn't always about seeing immediate results; it's about continuing to work hard even when progress isn't visible.
Grade 11 brought the excitement of an exchange program in the UK, broadening my perspectives and teaching me resilience in new environments. Now, in Grade 12, each of us has faced unique challenges and obstacles on our path to this moment. Yet, here we are, proud and ready to embark on the next chapter of our lives.
Think back to those late nights spent studying for exams, the setbacks that tested our determination, and the moments when it seemed easier to give up than to go on. Despite it all, we persisted. We overcame self-doubt and external pressures through our belief in our potential and the strength of perseverance.
But, perseverance is not just about enduring hardships; it's about growing and learning through them. It's about finding strength in adversity and courage in uncertainty. It's about embracing failures as stepping stones to success and setbacks as opportunities for growth. And if we can remember that life isn’t measured by fame, fortune or the number of likes on TikTok, but by persevering through the hardships and growing and learning from that, we will be rewarded with happy, successful lives.
Looking ahead, the road may not always be smooth, and the very things that helps some people succeed will lead others to fail, and while I cannot stand up here today and tell you how you are going to succeed, I can stand up here and tell you that you've got as good a shot as the person seated next to you. Whether pursuing post-secondary education, entering the workforce, or exploring other paths, continue to embody the lesson of perseverance. Each day brings a new opening for success, and you should not let the past stop you from doing the very things you want to do in the present.
Class of 2024, as we say goodbye to this stage of life and take the next steps to our future, carry with us the lesson of perseverance that has defined our journey thus far. Let us continue to strive for excellence, to push boundaries, and to inspire those around us.
Thank you all for being part of this extraordinary journey. Congratulations to my fellow graduates on this remarkable achievement. Persevere, and success will surely follow.
Lauren Irwin, David Thompson Secondary School graduate and valedictorian for the class of 2024.
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New position helps groups with volunteers
Submitted
Calling all seniors focused community groups! A newly formed and funded position is here to help with all aspects of volunteering with your organization.
Attracting, keeping, and training volunteers can be a daunting task for many non-profit groups in communities around the country. The same is true in the Columbia Valley, but a newly established position should help with some of that burden over the next coming months.
The position, funded entirely by the United Way, but administered through the Hospice Society of the Columbia Valley, aims to help community groups that work with seniors throughout the valley attract, retain, train and reward one of the most valuable commodities in any healthy community — the volunteers!
Executive Director of the Hospice Society of the Columbia Valley, Michele Neider, applied for the funding and said that the money will help many of the local groups in an area that has had little to no support until now.
“A lot of our seniors focused community groups are facing shortages in volunteer numbers,” said Neider, “The volunteer network could definitely use some energy and ideas to keep it vibrant and effective.”
Filling the new position is local resident Joshua Estabrooks. Having expe-
rience in various levels of government and a background in journalism, Estabrooks said he is looking forward to delving into the world of volunteering and seeing where he can find efficiencies and overlaps in an effort to increase volunteer numbers and reduce volunteer burnout.
“In a lot of communities we see the same people volunteering for many different groups,” said Estabrooks. “We also have lots of people who would like to get out and volunteer but don’t know where to start. So my job will be to help develop and carry out ideas and programs that will support, train and attract the right people with the right skills so that these many important groups can continue to thrive.”
The first step in the process, he said, is to make contact with and begin conversations with any and all non-profit community groups that work specifically with the senior population anywhere within the Columbia Valley.
“I’m looking forward to getting to know all these important groups and sussing out just what I can do to help them continue the good work they are doing.”
So if you are a community group that works with seniors, email or call Estabrooks as soon as you can to get the ball rolling.
He can be reached at 250-688-8012 or email at volunteer@hospicesocietycv.com.
Kitchen, dance party in Edgewater July 20
The Edgewater Recreation Society is excited to host its first annual East Coast Kitchen Party and Dance at Frank's Rink on July 20.
The event will feature the traditional fiddle music of Gordon Stobbe and JJ Guy. There will be called dances and partner dances, so don’t be shy because experience is not necessary.
Come and enjoy an evening of East Coast music and fun for the whole family. Besides all the dancing, there will be a silent auction and beer garden.
Gordon Stobbe is a celebrated fiddler, composer, and music educator hailing from Nova Scotia. With a career spanning several decades, Stobbe has made significant contributions to the Canadian folk music scene.
He is well known for his television work, including his role on the CBC's "Up Home Tonight" and his instructional series "Fiddle Video Magazine."
Stobbe has also published several books on fiddle instruction and has been a key figure in promoting tradi-
tional music through workshops and performances across Canada. In 2017, he was awarded the Order of Canada for his "commitment to the preservation of fiddle music as a performer, composer and teacher.”
JJ Guy is a Saskatchewan-born fiddler acclaimed for his dynamic playing style and deep connection to prairie fiddling traditions.
He has performed extensively throughout Canada, both as a solo artist and in collaboration with other musicians. His dedication to teaching and preserving Canadian fiddle music has made him a beloved figure in the folk music community.
Doors open at 6:30 p.m. Dancing begins at 7 p.m.
There will be a beer garden available for those looking to enjoy a refreshing beverage while soaking in the lively atmosphere.
Tickets are available by donation by emailing roberta.schnider@gmail.com. They can also be acquired at Pip's Country Store in Edgewater and Bighorn Cafe in Radium Hot Springs.
Local resident Joshua Estabrooks is eager to help organizations with every aspect of volunteerism. PHOTO SUBMITTED Submitted
Bull Riding in the Rockies action starts Friday
By Stephanie Stevens
The Calgary Stampede may be over, but the cowboys have arrived and the rodeo is just about to start in downtown Invermere.
The 24th annual Bull Riding in the Rockies starts up at 4:30 tomorrow (Friday, July 19) and there will be plenty of bull riding, music, Indigenous dancers and tasty chow to make for a great evening for the entire family.
The event is the biggest fundraiser of the year for the Columbia Valley Rockies, the Kootenay International Junior Hockey League Junior A team, and president Brett Holt said despite a few early setbacks everything is absolutely on track.
"I am so proud of how the new board has come together so quickly to make sure Bull Riding in the Rockies happens tomorrow night”, said Holt. "We had a few significant challenges this year, including an engineering report which showed we needed to rebuild our bleachers. Suddenly we had a $50,000 plus expense we were not anticipating."
But the bleachers are built, painted and in place, the chutes are ready to go, the stage is set up and the tent is ready for the musical main event — The Cole Malone Band.
Malone’s upbeat style of music combines contemporary with western influences, making for a high energy performance perfect for dancing.
Tryg Strand will open things up on stage at 4:30, followed by the Columbia River Headwater Dancers.
Tisha Tardif, language coordinator for the Shuswap Band, has stepped up to help arrange for the young dancers to showcase their skill at 5:30.
“Our youth have been working really hard on their skills and are so keen to dance for the community at the bull riding,” she said. “Dancing is a vital part of our culture and we adults and the kids take a lot of pride in their achievements.”
Vendors for the event include Cascading Mini Donuts, Columbia Valley Rockies Cookout, Smokehouse 93, Sweet Mountain Ice, Valley Dawgs, and Pizzeria Mercato. The Rockies will be flipping burgers and the sweet smell of mini doughnuts will also fill the air with those oh-so-rodeo aromas.
Mercato pizza by the slice will be available later in the evening.
The bulls and cowboys will take to the arena after the dancers at about 6:15 p.m. and continue until
about 8:30 to 9 p.m., said Holt.
"The volunteers, coaches and players that stayed in the valley after the playoffs have worked really, really hard,” said Holt. “And the community support for the team continues to be phenomenal. We wouldn’t have a Junior A team here without it.”
Tickets were nearly sold out at press time but if you haven’t got yours, you can visit showpass.com and search for CV Rockies Bull Riding 2024.
Artist lets her paintings dictate
Submitted
The Artym Gallery welcomes painter Maya Eventov back to Invermere this weekend.
It has been a few years since she has travelled west from Ontario to do a solo show. This much-anticipated event will feature four different series: forest, abstract, floral, and mountain.
Maya will be in attendance for the opening reception on Friday, July 19 from 5 to 7p.m. and Saturday July 20 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Maya is well known for her bold, three-dimensional texture on canvas. At exhibitions she has even encouraged people to touch her work, as they are more than paintings, they are also sculpture.
On Saturday Maya will be doing a demonstration to show how she works acrylic on her palate knife to create these beautiful, chunky works of art.
“The new body of work is about letting the process of creation lead me and letting go of control which in turn allows me to have absolutely unpredictable and wonderful results,” says Maya. “I am letting the painting dictate what it wants to be and I am starting from a free flow of an abstract and letting it morph into a mysterious landscape.”
Everyone is welcome and encouraged to come meet this passionate and internationally known artist. You can view all of Maya’s paintings online at www. artymgallery.com The exhibition will continue until Friday, July 26.
July 19.
Maya Eventov
OPENING RECEPTION
Friday, July 19 5-7pm Saturday, July 20 10-2pm Exhibition continues until July 26
Maya Eventov is the featured artist at Artym Gallery starting this Friday,
PHOTO SUBMITTED
Gearing up for Bull Riding in the Rockies are, from left, Nate Genn, Tanner Wit, Tucker Braund, and Paddy Donahue.
PHOTO STEPHANIE STEVENS
PIONEER CLASSIFIEDS
Cheers to Steve at The Local View for the great service and fast turn around time. You are awesome!
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 Kirsten H. For the great visit and stimulating conversation.
Cheers to Leslie H. at RONA for the great service and for putting up with all my questions.
Cheers to Sam at DOI office. I called in with a request and she was on it. The work was completed that same day.
Cheers to Leanne from Gel n More Nails for the good job on my nails. They look great.
Cheers to Aldene at Invermere McDonald’s. We came to you with a problem, and you rectified it right away. Very good service.
Cheers to the first responders. We appreciate all you do for our community.
Cheers to Cindy and Jennyfer for treating me to lunch. We always have a great visit when you come to town.
Cheers to the Symphony of the Kootenays for another fabulous performance in Invermere!
Cheers and gratitude to the Susap-Nana Drummers for an awesome performance!
FOR SALE
ACREAGES FOR SALE
Last four acreages in Elkhorn Country Estates. 2.5 to 2.89 acre parcels. Individual wells, no build ing time commitment.
$329,000 + GST For more information, contact Elkhorn Ranches:
www.elkhornranches.com
Attention rock climbers and mountaineers. Selling used rock climbing & mountaineering equipment. All in good condition. Crampons, ice hammers, carabiners, pitons, hexcentrics, stoppers, etc. Low prices. Call John 250-270-0555 after 18:00h. UIAGM-Mountain Guide.
End of an Era Sale
July 20th 9am- ?
All carpenter tools, shop and building supplies must go! Garden plus household items. Handy people, crafters, DIYers welcome.
3461 Crooked Tree Rd (between Windermere & Fairmont off Kootenay #3 Road).
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
Renovations, Masonry & Handyman Services, Blinds, House checks, eavestrough/
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
Library director wants to build community
Submitted by Donna Tunney
Meet temporary Radium Public Library director Danielle Conolly.
Originally from Winnipeg, Manitoba, Danielle obtained her BA in English and later a diploma in creative communications. In 2017, she visited Vancouver to help with a family member’s wedding. When Danielle met the best man, sparks flew. In 2018 she joined him in Vancouver.
They later relocated to his hometown, Creston, where Danielle was a medical office assistant until the practice closed. She then applied to Creston Library as a front desk assistant, and discovered a passion for library work that inspired her to study part time for her library and information technology diploma, which she hopes to complete by 2028.
Danielle says she believes her role is “to serve the library in supporting and building community.” Her diverse history, quick wit, and engaging personality should assist her in achieving these goals.
To find your next great summer read, visit the wonderful library staff at our beautiful location on Stanley Street, or come to the next Pop-Up Book Sale
scheduled for Friday, August 2 at the Radium Brewery during “Market on Main.”
From Danielle Conolly: Welcome to Summer Reading Club 2024! Each year, BC libraries participate in this free literacy program designed to engage children ages 5-12 with libraries and reading throughout summer, in ways that are fun, educational, and inclusive.
This year’s theme is “A World of Curiosities,” featuring activities about dinosaurs, optical illusions, fairy tales, and more. Space is still available, so please visit our website to register.
This year, Summer Reading Club at the Radium Library runs every Friday until August 16. Children ages 5-8 (five year olds must be finished Kindergarten) meet from 10:30 a.m. to 12 p.m. Children ages 9-12 meet from 1 to 2:30 p.m. There is also a Summer Reading Club program in Edgewater every other Thursday from 11:15 a.m.
Storytime continues at the Radium Library on Wednesdays at 11:30 a.m. A summer Edgewater storytime is happening at the park on Thursdays starting at 10:30 a.m. Story times are geared toward preschool-aged children; however, all are welcome!
We are also excited for our annual Teddy Bear Picnic on August 28. It is a free event for preschool-aged children with fun activities and snacks. More details to come on our website and Facebook page.
Foundry East Kootenay opens new doors
Submitted
Foundry East Kootenay recently opened its new facility in Cranbrook that provides mental and physical health services for Indigenous and non-Indigenous youth.
Operated by the Ktunaxa Kinbasket Child and Family Service Society (KKCFSS), young people aged 12 to 24 can access primary care, mental health support, substance use support, peer support and social services at the centre.
Built with support from project partners including the Trust, KKCFSS and Foundry East Kootenay are helping youth in the region connect with the resources and services they need for their health and well-being.
The centre has a welcoming entrance, with a covered doorway, stone and woodwork and a large sign reading “tikxawicikimik” in Ktunaxa (“for all things to be connected”). Even more importantly, it’s welcoming inside.
“People are surprised about the extent of all the services,” says Amy Reid, Clinical Operations Manager for Foundry East Kootenay.
At the turn of this decade, Colin Sinclair, Chief Executive Officer at KKCFSS, heard about the provincial network and saw the need to bring it to the East Kootenay, too. “Our youth are really struggling,” he says. “I see it in my work every day. Also, I coach quite a bit
of hockey and see it even on the hockey teams. I felt that this was going to be a great asset for youth in our region.”
Whether they live in Cranbrook or Invermere, Indigenous and non-Indigenous youth are welcome.
The range of options is impressive. There’s space for a nurse practitioner and doctors, plus sexual health services and substance use supports. There are seven “talking rooms,” where youth can chat with another youth as part of the centre’s peer support services. There’s a kitchen, where they can learn life skills. There’s a cultural room. There’s a place simply to hang out or do homework.
“Just coming into the building and getting food or reading a book, and maybe casually connecting with somebody,” Reid says, “is a safe entry point so that if they do need further support, they might be willing and feel safe to access some of the providers.”
The youth themselves are “very excited they have a space,” Reid says. Adults have also given feedback along the lines of, “what would it have been like to have a space like this when we were growing up? We wish we had had a place like this.”
Although Foundry East Kootenay is now up and running, it won’t remain static.
“Youth drive what services and programming we need,” Reid says. “It’s community-driven.”
Foundry East Kootenay recently opened the doors to its new facility in Cranbrook, offering support to Indigenous and non-Indigenous youth. PHOTO SUBMITTED
Surfer girl - Kassandra Judson was so excited to get married that she decided to go surfing on Lake Windermere in her wedding dress.
PHOTO KIM HUTCHINGS
FAITH
So grateful for that lone post
By Brent Woodard
Windermere Valley Shared Ministry
When I was a child, I had a morning paper route.
One winter morning, with loads of snow coming down, my mother and sister went with me. I was sick, and they came with my mom’s car to help me deliver the papers. There was a moment when we were on top of a hill. I directed them to take a shortcut and drive down a steep alley road. This was not wise direction on that morning.
The road took a 90-degree turn right before a cliff, which was above a car dealership building. I would take the shorter path down a long flight of stairs, where I would deliver a paper and meet them at the bottom. When I got to the bottom, I turned around and saw, to my horror, that they had lost control of the car just before the turn.
The car was sliding and they were about to go off the cliff. Just at the edge of the cliff there was one old white-painted wooden post. The car slid up to the post, hit it, and stopped.
After going up and helping them get squared away, I hugged that post. Things turned out okay, but I still remember the feeling of helplessness, fear and dread as I watched the situation unfold.
To some degree I am getting the same feeling watching what is going on in the United States. I studied American history in university.
I read books on American history in my spare time. I like observing that country from afar. But now it is like watching a very bad accident about to happen.
There have been some old posts put in place in the past to keep people from going off the edge. But some of those posts seem to be no longer holding or are getting taken away.
I’m sorry that there is some representation of the Christian religion involved in this potential wreck. I know the Christian religion is not a unified conglomerate. There is a very broad spectrum of thought and of thinkers.
As one who cares about Christianity, I am sorry that there is a portion of those representing the religion who, I believe, are on the wrong side of history and who, I believe, are on the wrong side of compassion. I suppose strange times make for strange bedfellows.
Not to overstate the metaphor, but in my mind, people are getting in bed with the wrong characters. Is faith a driving motivation here, or is it fear? Is it a lack of trust in the future? A lack of trust in the unfolding of society? A lack of trust in change? Do people see their tribe diminishing and so grasp at possible solutions, turning blind eyes to so many things that they might be, well, selling their souls?
The possibility of power is seductive. What comes to mind is the story of Jesus being offered all the kingdoms of the world if he would just bow down and worship the devil. Jesus said no, but it is easy for less aware humans to say yes.
I felt powerless as a child watching my mother and sister slide toward that cliff. Sometimes tragedies come and good things break down. Still, I’m grateful for thoughtful adults who put posts in place on calm sunny days, in case they might be useful in saving people in harrowing conditions, or from themselves.
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
Quilt of Valour - Cindy Postnikoff (left) had the privilege of presenting a Quilt of Valour in Fairmont last week to retired Warrant Officer David Hubbard (shown at right). Hubbard served with the Canadian Armed Forces for 21 years. He started in Cornwallis, Nova Scotia and finished in Namao Base in Edmonton. He did several tours of duty and continues to make a difference as search and rescue manager for a large area that includes Canal Flats to Spillimacheen. The beautiful quilt was made by the Hoodoo Quilters from Fairmont.