VALLEY NEWS
Firefighters gain upper hand despite odds
Columbia Valley Pioneer staff
Against the odds and the heat of the day, members of the Columbia Valley Rural Fire & Rescue Service gained the upper hand on the Madias Creek wildfire, plus three separate grass fires on the same day July 22.
Fire Chief Drew Sinclair referred to that Monday as challenging.
“Other than highway access at the base of the fire, there was no road access for bush trucks or tenders, and all ground efforts were made on foot with hand tools and hose lines. This was intense work in extremely hot conditions.”
The fire broke out adjacent to the highway between Fairmont and Windermere, where volunteer firefighters responded quickly and worked tirelessly alongside BC Wildfire Service crews.
“For many of our members this was their second call of the day and most of them worked until midnight,” Sinclair said.
The department kept a small crew overnight to extinguish hot spots and to make sure nothing escaped before returning Tuesday morning to get the fire contained.
Sinclair said four members of the RDEK work experience program were a valuable resource that bolstered numbers and a quick response.
Due to aggressive fire behaviour and a concern for public safety, a tactical evacuation was performed Monday afternoon by RCMP who remained on scene until contract security and flaggers could be set up on #3 Road. They were subsequently relieved by Mainroad East Kootenay contracting staff.
Earlier that day, firefighters also responded to three small grass fires along Westside Road. Passing cyclists report-
ed the fires and assisted until fire crews arrived. Fortunately, these fires were quickly contained and extinguished.
These fires and the Madius Creek wildfire were human caused.
“The size of the Madias Creek fire and the positive outcome is a credit to our strong valley relationships,” said Sinclair, who thanked everyone who was actively involved in the response.
“I also want to acknowledge the evacuees who were so cooperative under extremely difficult circumstances, and the wider community who have been incredibly supportive,” the chief said. “While the threat was enormous, teamwork prevailed.”
Fire crews made good progress on the Madias Creek wildfire, which prompted the rescinding of all evacuation alerts.
Regional Emergency Operations Centre information officer Loree Duczek said crews conducted regular patrols to identify and deal with hot spots within the fire’s perimeter.
She noted they had some challenging weather conditions including strong sustained winds but the fire stayed within its existing boundaries and did not experience any growth.
The fire is now classified as out. It burned approximately 2.11 hectares.
The alert within the RDEK affected 73 civic addresses in the Crooked Tree and Elkhorn areas.
The evacuation alert issued by the ?Akisq’nuk First Nation Chief and Council for the entirety of the ?Akisq’nuk First Nation reserve was also rescinded.
Elsewhere in the RDEK, the evacuation orders for six properties in the Whiteswan Area and nine properties in the Palliser/Cross River area remain in effect.
The Madias Creek wildfire is out, but that wasn’t the only fire that kept local crews busy last week. Four Invermere Fire Rescue members were dispatched to Parson to provide structural protection during the Dogtooth FSR fire.
Captain Erik McLaughlin, Lieutenant Janice Dallaire, and firefighters Ben Hoult and Tyson Hage went above and beyond to help another community in need.
PHOTOS IFR AND BCWS
RCMP REPORT
Sgt. Ed deJong Columbia Valley RCMP
This past week, July 22 to July 29, the Columbia Valley RCMP responded to 96 calls for service.
On July 24 police received a report of an impaired driver heading to Invermere from Panorama. Officers made patrols and located the vehicle and the female driver.
A demand was read and samples obtained, revealing the driver was impaired by alcohol. She was issued a 90-day driver’s licence suspension and a 30-day vehicle impound.
On July 24 at 3:21 p.m. Invermere Fire Rescue and the RCMP were called to a capsized sailboat on Lake Windermere near the arena.
Both emergency services boats were deployed and located the sailboat and all of its occupants who had self-rescued and made it to shore. Of note, all three on board were wearing proper life jackets which likely contributed to the lack of a tragedy.
On July 26 the Ravenshead wildfire grew in a northerly direction toward Nipika Resort and adjacent properties. BC Wildfire Service evacuated the properties in danger and set up road blocks to prevent re-entry.
The wildfire danger is still extreme, so please ensure you are not providing a possible ignition source and be diligent about reporting fires if you see them.
A big thanks to BC Wildfire Service staff for quickly controlling the Madias Creek wildfire prior to any structures being lost.
Lake Windermere Pulse Check
Average Water Temperature: 24°C
Average Water Depth: 4.6 m
Average Turbidity: 0.8 NTU
Average D.O.: 8.7 mg/L
Average pH: 7.9
There was a smokey haze this morning but the water remained clear. Almost all parameters have stayed consistent since last week. Except for average dissolved oxygen (D.O.), which has decreased an average of 0.9 mg/L. Likely due to the recent heat wave, reducing the water’s capacity to hold oxygen.
Thank you to this week’s volunteer, Gavin, who brought us out on his boat, making sampling much more efficient.
To volunteer with the Ambassadors, please contact us at (250) 341-6898 or intern@lakeambassadors.ca
Byelection coming for Canal Flats
By Steve Hubrecht steve@columbiavalleypioneer.com
Canal Flats is heading to a byelection in September after a pair of village councillors stepped down recently.
The five-member council lost two members in a matter of weeks. Councillor Jennifer Noble stepped down in late June, and a few weeks ago councillor Anora Kobza did the same.
The village has set a byelection date of Saturday, Sept. 14 to fill the two vacant seats, and those wanting to run have until Friday, Aug. 9 to submit their nominations to the village office.
“I’m very sorry to see them go, but I understand the reasoning. I hope they will consider putting their hats in the ring (to run for municipal office) again some time in the future,” Canal Flats Mayor Mark Doherty told the Pioneer.
Both councillors cited personal reasons for stepping down, but did not elaborate. The Pioneer attempted to contact both Noble and Kobza for comment, but was unable to reach them prior to press deadline, despite multiple attempts.
“Councillor Kobza has made meaningful contributions to our community, particularly in advancing our housing priority. Her efforts have helped to create positive changes and improvements for our com-
munity,” said Doherty in a village Facebook post after Kobza announced her resignation. He had similarly praised Noble in an earlier post after she announced her resignation, noting Noble’s efforts in housing and in advocating to have speed limits reduced on Highway 93/95 through Canal Flats.
In a letter sent to Canal Flats council in mid-July, Kobza, in addition to citing personal reasons for her resignation, wrote that she was also stepping down for “moral reasons, primarily stemming from a lack of support within the council. I have strived to serve the community to the best of my abilities. I believe that in order to maintain the integrity of the council and uphold the values that I hold dear, it is necessary for me to resign at this time.”
Noble sent a resignation letter to Canal Flats council in late June, writing that “I have greatly valued the opportunity to serve the community in this capacity and have appreciated the support and collaboration of my fellow council members. However, at this time, I must prioritize personal matters that require my full attentions and commitment. I must put my family’s well-being first.”
Kobza has spent almost her entire life in the village, and her family’s roots there extend back 80 decades to when the family immigrated from the Czech Republic. When she ran for council in fall 2022, Kobza told the Pioneer. “I want to be a voice for Canal Flats.”
Noble has a background in finance, working as finance manager at PodTech, and as the chief financial officer for the Columbia Lake Technology Centre in Canal Flats, as well as an accounting manager at Copper Medical Supplies. When she first ran for council in fall 2022 she told the Pioneer “with a strong understanding of business and finance I will work to ensure accountability and transparency for residents of this community . . . I care about helping people and want to see everyone thriving with a place to live and work.”
Anora Kobza (left) and Jennifer Noble have stepped down from Canal Flats council for personal reasons, resulting in a byelection on September 14.
Knight watch
It can never be stressed enough how crucial (and expertly trained) our first responders are in the Columbia Valley.
The Madias Creek wildfire on July 22 was a perfect example. That incident could have been a literal nightmare if not for the quick response of local firefighters, police, and the BC Wildfire Service.
When fire strikes so quickly it’s hard to think rationally without panic setting in, but the expertise of our ‘knights’ in yellow, orange and red ensured that everything was in place for a coordinated attack and evacuation.
Kudos to the RCMP for their role in the incident, and to fire ‘command’ for keeping everyone safe during the community exodus. Those training sessions are definitely paying off.
Our first responders are some of the best highly trained individuals in the province; they have to know how their enemy lives and breathes, how it reacts in certain conditions, and what path it will take. It’s a real science in itself.
What compounded the difficulty on that fateful Monday was the fact firefighters also had to contend with three smaller grass fires that were reportedly caused by human activity. Despite the added stress, local fire crews relied on their training to act quickly and competently in order to contain the incident and protect the community.
While most people run away from these dragons, it is a firefighter’s true nature to face them.
Years ago in a small South Okanagan town, a fire chief did not want to be interviewed after he saved a child from a burning motorhome. He risked his own life, without turnout gear, to smash the back window and reach in to retrieve the unconscious child.
When asked why he did that, he simply responded, “It’s my job; it’s what I do.”
While many people considered him a hero, he frowned at the term, saying firefighters don’t think of themselves as heroes because they are only men and women who have a keen desire to serve their community in times of crises.
The same can be said for Columbia Valley Search and Rescue volunteers. Unless you follow their Facebook page, you would never know how many calls these members respond to on a weekly basis. Lately it has been a lot — injured hikers, stranded climbers, you name it. These volunteers answer the call of duty with extreme dedication to ensure the people needing help return home safe. Can these volunteers track a fish through water? Almost.
While you can heap much praise on these first responders and bake them muffins if you want, all they ask in return is that you think ahead for your own safety and “get out of the way” when they are trying to do their jobs.
That’s not too much to ask, is it?
Lyonel Doherty, editor
Wildlife habitat group formed
A new East Kootenay regional wildlife and habitat advisory committee has been established in alignment with the provincial ‘Together for Wildlife’ strategy and is providing recommendations to the province of BC to benefit wildlife and habitat. Learn more at Regional Wildlife Advisory Committees - Kootenay Boundary Region - Province of British Columbia (gov.bc.ca). See member info, and the committee’s initial recommendations to the province.
Members of the East Kootenay Wildlife & Habitat Advisory Committee come from hunting, trapping, academic, conservation, forestry, land securement, stewardship groups, ranching, agriculture and other backgrounds and were selected following a public call for members in late 2023.
“When the East Kootenay Wildlife & Habitat Advisory Committee meets, we come together as a unified
voice for wildlife and habitat in the East Kootenay,” says co-chair Jim Turner, noting that the committee is a collaboration of diverse perspective-holders with extensive local knowledge.
The committee’s primary goal is to improve wildlife and habitat stewardship. It does this by providing recommendations to provincial decision-makers, managers and stewardship staff responsible for the health and resilience of wildlife and their habitat in the East Kootenay.
“The committee is an advisor to the provincial government,” says co-chair Alan Duffy, “and since January 2024, the committee has made eight recommendations to the government and has provided advice to regional staff on priorities for wildlife projects.”
Continued on page 7
New committee established for wildlife
Continued from page 6
The committee’s initial recommendations to government are focused on several priorities, including:
• Protecting and stewardship of high-quality habitat
• Setting objectives for wildlife populations
• Establishing new long-term funding models for conservation
• Managing high-elevation mountain passes
• Responding to chronic wasting disease
• Managing linear features for wildlife
Additionally, the committee is exploring ideas to pilot new approaches to addressing migratory elk and bighorn sheep and reducing wildlife collisions on rail lines.
The committee is engaging with First Nation governments in the East Kootenay to align its work with the First Nations’ traditional values and priorities, recognizing that each First Nation will define how or if it
participates in the committee.
The committee is in the early stages and can be reached at ekwhac@gmail.com. It is currently developing its communications channels to share updates on the committee’s work and to hear from others about their priorities for wildlife and habitat in the East Kootenay.
East Kootenay Wildlife & Habitat Advisory Committee
Fire chief praises efforts in local wildfire
Monday, July 22 was a challenging day for our fire service as the Madias Creek fire broke out adjacent to the highway between Fairmont and Windermere.
Our volunteer firefighters responded quickly and worked tirelessly alongside BC Wildfire Service crews. Unified command was quickly established and extra air resources were called in. In total, eight members from Fairmont and 12 members from Windermere responded with three apparatus each as well as two command vehicles and two Edgewater members who happened to be in the area.
Other than highway access at the base of the fire, there was no road access for bush trucks or tenders, and all ground efforts were made on foot with hand tools and hose lines. For many of our members this was their second call of the day and most of them worked until midnight. We kept a small crew overnight for hot spots and to make sure nothing escaped before returning Tuesday morning with 13 members and five apparatus from both fire departments to get the fire contained.
The four members of our RDEK work experience program were a valuable resource bolstering our numbers and quick response. Monday afternoon, tactical evacuations were performed by the RCMP who
remained on scene until contract security and flaggers could be set up on the #3 Road overnight and relieved by Mainroad. Our thanks to those agencies for their support.
We were able to downgrade the evacuation order to an alert and, while the evacuation alerts around this fire remain in place, the fire is now classified as being held and is not anticipated to grow further.
I am incredibly proud of this outcome and the performance of the unified command team. To the affected evacuees, our heartfelt thanks for your compliance and patience. While some of our members on the fire were personally affected by the alert, I know first-hand the frustration and feelings that accompany leaving your property in the hands of others. Your willingness to leave made the difference in the aircraft being able to operate
close and fast without compromising the public and their personal safety.
To the ?akisq’nuk First Nation chief, council, leadership and members, your support and trust in these firefighters and our mutual respect is important to both fire departments and to myself personally. Hu sukitq’ ukni.
We enjoy the ongoing relationship we have built with the BC Wildfire Service and we appreciate your dedication and hard work. To the pilots and air crews: your presence and skill and professionalism in the air and on the radio is incredible. Thank you! I want to acknowledge and thank the RDEK and Emergency Operations Centre staff who worked hard resourcing and supporting our needs late into the night. To the community members and businesses stopping with gifts of food and water last night and this morning; and to the employers who allowed our firefighters to drop everything to respond to these fires, thank you.
The size of this fire and the positive outcome is a credit to our strong valley relationships. While the threat was enormous, teamwork prevailed. We are stronger together.
Program promotes responsible recreation
By Steve Hubrecht steve@columbiavalleypioneer.com
Local environmental group Wildsight will soon launch its Recreate Responsibly initiative in the Columbia Valley.
The effort aims to help reduce the impact of outdoor recreation in the valley on wildlife and the environment, and it recently got a funding boost, receiving a $10,000 grant from the Outdoor Recreation Council of British Columbia.
“Something we’ve started to notice in our other work is the impacts recreation of all kinds — from hiking and camping to mountain biking to motorized recreation such as ATVing — has on our wildlife and the general ecosystem,” Wildsight Invermere program manager Helena-Grace Treadwell told the Pioneer
With the Recreate Responsibly initiative, Wildsight hopes to tackle the problem head on through a variety of means, such as education, raising awareness, events, collaborating with outdoor recreation user groups, and engaging with local First Nations.
More specifically, the group plans to organize hikes for young children, ages 4 to 10; organize hikes and outings for Indigenous teens; host open house public events; start dialogues with local nonprofit groups that focus on outdoor recreation such as the Summit Trail Makers Society (STMS), the Columbia Valley Cycling Society (CVCS), and others; start dia-
logues with local First Nations; and develop some informational literature and presentations.
In engaging with local First Nations “we want to understand what recreational impacts they are seeing, and what they feel the key messages should be. We want to share with them what we’ve been seeing, but just as importantly we want to learn from them,” said Treadwell.
instance, just outside town in Canal Flats,” said Treadwell.
Over time this conditions the bighorns to run away any time they see people — which is great for the sheep’s immediate physical safety, but in the long run has negative effects on their feeding, their overall health, and consequently their breeding.
“People see the sheep run away, and they say ‘Oh, I scared them off.’ But they don’t realize the effective cumulative, and that it’s a lot more than it initially may seem,” said Treadwell, adding that there can be a big difference in the impact on bighorns, if people are walking above the sheep (in what is normally the sheep’s ‘escape terrain’) as opposed to below them.
Wildsight has noticed similar impacts on mountain goats from mountain biking on trails in the high alpine in the Hopeful Creek-Brewer Creek area.
It’s not just fauna, but flora too: the grasslands around Lake Enid are actually “very fragile. There are a lot of native plants there that are delicate and very slow growing. It’s so dry, and when they are disturbed it can take decades to recover,” said Treadwell. “At the end of the day it’s a simple message: stay on the trails and established tracks.”
It’s the same with outdoor recreation nonprofit groups, such as the STMS and CVCS, she added. “We want to get an understanding from their perspective about the impacts they are seeing, and on how to get key messages out to people who are recreating, and how to make sure they are recreating in a way that is not detrimental to the environment.”
The Columbia Valley has incredible recreation opportunities, noted Treadwell. “The reason we go out into the backcountry is because we love it . . . we just want to make sure we don’t love it to death.”
Treadwell pointed to several examples: recreational effects on local bighorn sheep herds; local mountain goat herds; and on the grasslands around Lake Enid.
As part of Wildsight’s bighorn sheep monitoring projects, “we’re seeing how even something as simple as people walking with dogs, or sometimes even walking on their own, really stresses the sheep. It can make the sheep stay away from important feeding areas, for
“I’ve only lived here 15 years, but I’ve already seen a large increase in recreation and tourism, and the impact that can have on a landscape and environment,” said Wildsight Invermere branch president Tracy Flynn. “It’s hard – there are a lot of people who have lived here a lot longer than I have and they have always done certain recreational activities. And if the population in the valley had stayed the same, probably these would have been okay to keep doing. But when the population doubles, triples, quadruples, the situation changes . . . that’s a hard thing for people to get their heads around, because it feels like they are being told they can’t do something they’ve always enjoyed.”
Education is critical in that respect, said Flynn. “I believe that if people really understand the impacts, 90 per cent of them will make the right choice.”
The Outdoor Recreation Council of B.C. funding will see the Recreate Responsibly initiative last until next year, but Treadwell said, “I can see this being an important focus for us (Wildsight) into the future because of the rapid growth of recreational activities in the Columbia Valley.”
PHOTO PAT MORROW
Foreshore conservation highlight in new report
Submitted by Living Lakes Canada
The Kootenays may be world-renowned for mountains in the winter, but summertime is when lakes take centre stage. Paradoxically, the ever-growing popularity of Kootenay lakes is also driving growing concerns about their health and the sustainability of the aquatic ecosystems they support.
With this in mind, Living Lakes Canada undertook a four-year lake study from 2019-2023 to understand how lake foreshores in the Columbia Basin region are changing due to urbanization and development. Using a lake survey methodology called Foreshore Integrated Management Planning (FIMP), the project targeted Columbia Basin lakes with federally designated aquatic species at risk. The species at risk populations that guided the project were Kootenay River white sturgeon, shorthead and Columbia sculpin and westslope cutthroat trout.
The 10 surveyed lakes are Kootenay, Slocan, Arrow and Trout lakes in the West Kootenays, and Whitetail, Whiteswan, Moyie, Windermere, Columbia, and St. Mary lakes in the East Kootenays.
“Freshwater biodiversity is declining rapidly on a global scale, and lake foreshores can provide habitat to roughly 90 per cent of all lake biodiversity. Understanding the health of a lake’s foreshore and the rate of impacts is key
to sustainable lake management,” said Georgia Peck, lake program manager with Living Lakes Canada. She added that the work undertaken by Living Lakes Canada in the Columbia Basin is a testament to the value and effectiveness of FIMP as a powerful yet practical cumulative-impact assessment tool for freshwater conservation.
The lake foreshore is the vital stretch along a lake between the low and high water marks, and a treasure trove of cultural, economic, and ecological value. However, negative impacts and changes to this crucial area can slowly accumulate over time, often going undetected. This is where FIMP comes in.
FIMP foreshore surveys are carried out by boat using GPS and drone assessment. Multiple observations are catalogued including land-use (industrial, residential, commercial), shore type (cliff/bluff, rocky shore, sand beach), foreshore condition, the number of docks, weirs or other man-made developments, wildlife and vegetation.
The findings are made publicly available and foreshore development guidelines are produced for each surveyed lake as a resource that can be referenced by government, First Nations, stewardship groups, property owners, or anyone wishing to learn more about the quality of foreshore habitat and the risks posed by different shore-altering activities.
OUT OF OFFICE…
10 Steps to Prepare your Business for Evacuation
Submitted by Columbia Valley Economic Development
In the face of an evacuation alert or the anticipation of one, taking proactive steps is crucial for safety and preparedness. The BC Economic Development Association is a world leader in disaster preparation and recovery. They have developed many resources available to businesses for free. If you do not already have an emergency plan for your business, here are ten essential considerations:
1. Protect Your Information: Backup electronic files using a USB stick, email them to yourself, use cloud storage, and ensure you can easily grab your laptop, external hard drive, or computer tower if needed.
2. Pack Insurance and Registration Information: Ensure you have insurance and registration documents for all commercial vehicles included in your evacuation kit.
3. Prepare for an Insurance Claim: Take pictures or videos of your business,
highlighting key equipment. Keep copies of your insurance documents with you.
4. Clarify Staff Roles: Assign specific tasks to staff to ensure a quick and organized response. Ensure you have their contact information and emergency contacts outside the area.
5. Turn Off Utilities: Shut off electricity and water, and eliminate any fire hazards near the building. Leave gas service on; if necessary, fire or emergency officials will instruct utility companies to turn it off.
6. Secure Cash: Empty the cash register, seal the cash in an envelope, sign across the seam with the amount and date. Track any cash used during evacuation efforts, especially for business-related expenses.
7. List Emergency Links: Compile a list of emergency information links, including Regional District, Red Cross, and DriveBC.
8. Create a Contacts List: Ensure you have access to a list of emergency phone numbers and key contacts during an evacuation.
9. Check Insurance Eligibility: Even if an environmental threat is over 50 km away, you might still be eligible for business interruption insurance.
10. Inform Suppliers and Customers: Notify suppliers about potential delivery disruptions and inform customers about possible service interruptions.
By following these steps, you can ensure a more organized and safer response in an emergency. For more resources from BCEDA, please visit https://www.bceda.ca/ economic_disaster_preparation.php
Thursday, August 1
9:00am-12:00pm: Pickleball Mt Nelson Athletic Park. Drop-in.
• 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!
11:15am-12:30pm: World of Curiosities; Edgewater Summer Reading Club. Edgewater Community Hall Park. Join Radium 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. Join us on the 1st & 3rd Thursdays of each month for Needles & Hooks. Bring your current yarn project and meet with other makers! All welcome.
• 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: Trivia Night Windermere Whitehouse Pub. Host Mandi Cox $3/ person, teams of more than 6 will be split into two groups. Ages 19+
Friday, August 2
• 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: Wilder Memorial Park (in Fairmont).
• 5:00pm-8:00pm: First Fridays. Invermere downtown and all around. Get ready to see some incredible art, shop, and eat some yummy food. Every F1RST Friday, explore the art in downtown Invermere and all around. Plus, listen to some live music all while exploring Invermere.
• 5:00pm-8:00pm: CV Arts August Reception. Pynelogs Cultural Centre. Featuring 4 talented artists: Aaron Sidorenko, Marcia Harris, Mark Holliday, and Robyn Oliver. Live music from Oso Simple and light snacks will round out the evening, with both alcoholic and non-alcoholic beer and wine available for purchase! Exhibition on display August 2nd to 28th.
• 5:00pm-8:00pm: Gina Sarro Paintings. Effusion Art gallery. A brand new collection of beautiful calming landscapes by this Vancouver-based artist – show from August 2-9.
• 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 ‘Rivertown’.
• 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, August 3
• 9:00am-1:00pm: BIG Book Sale. Invermere Courthouse Parking lot. Book Lovers - don't miss this 17th annual event. Thousands of gently used books sorted into dozens of categories - Mysteries, Popular Authors, History, Canadiana, Non-fiction, Cookbooks and books for kids of all ages. Book collectors will find treasures on the Special Books tables. Bargain hunters -check out the Book Bundles of 6 books for $5.00. All funds raised support Invermere Public Library programs.
• 9:00am-12:00pm: Pickleball Mt Nelson Athletic Park. Drop-in.
• 10:30am-11:00am: Family Storytime. Invermere Public Library. Join us weekly on Saturdays for Family Storytime at the library! With stories, songs & a craft. Geared towards preschool age (2-5) but all welcome.
• 11:00am-12:30pm: LEGO/Duplo Club Invermere Public Library. We'll have Lego, Duplo, big blocks & more out to play with on Saturday mornings! All ages welcome.
2:00pm-4:00pm: 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, August 4
• 10:00am-2:00pm: Fairmont Farmer’s Market. Located outside of the ‘Mountain Side Market’
• 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, August 5
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). ‘Migration’ this week!
• 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 $50 buy-in. Every Monday.
6:30pm: Duplicate Bridge. Invermere Seniors Hall. Visitors Welcome $2
Tuesday, August 6
• 7:00pm: Ocean’s Eleven. Columbia Valley Centre. Invermere Film Festival Movie Night! First Tuesday of every month. Doors open at 6pm, popcorn, snacks and refreshments available. Tickets at door or invermerefilm.org
• 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 Public 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, August 7
• 6:30pm-8:00pm: Locals Live Concert Series. Pothole Park. Live music returns to Pothole Park this summer! The District of Invermere presents the free concert series “Locals Live.” Join us every Wednesday in July & August in Pothole Park from 6:30pm-8:00pm for a rocking good time! Bring your own lawn chair, blanket & take out food! This week: ‘L8’.
• 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 Public Library - preschool & all ages.
• 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.
Pine Tree Valley offers the solution
Submitted advertorial
Housing affordability is one of the biggest issues in Canada.
It seems everyone has a different opinion on what the problem is and how to solve it. Despite all of the talk, many renters still find themselves shuffled from one rental to another when the home they rented is sold.
Immigration, building costs, infrastructure issues, climate change, a post COVID resurgence of the desire to leave the big cities and a reduced workforce have all contributed to the issue. This multi-faceted problem has no simple solution. The Canadian government has created many opportunities, but some people are still wondering will it be enough?
Social media is full of angry renters asking “what is being done to ensure that locals will be able to continue to find adequate housing?” And renters aren’t the only ones affected; businesses struggle to fill positions as workers are unable to find adequate housing, causing shortened hours of operations and longer lines at local businesses. The influx of visitors that help keep our communities vibrant and successful also restricts available housing and services for local workers.
Obviously a balance needs to be struck to meet the needs of locals and the needs of economic growth. CMHC says that meeting this challenge requires collaboration.
Everyone needs to work together – all orders of government, Indigenous partners, the private and non-profit sectors – to develop lasting solutions across the entire housing system. Through our people, partnerships and programs delivered on behalf of the Government of Canada, CMHC is rising to meet Canada’s housing challenges. Together, we strive to ensure more Canadians have access to what they deserve: a home they can afford that meets their needs.
To that end, CMHC has released several different funds, financing initiatives and calls to action to their private and public partners.
Generation Homes, a local builder, has taken advantage of the available programs to create something unique in Invermere. The Pine Tree Valley community offers 68 new rental homes that will be available starting this fall, and 32 for sale homes that are located directly across from the new preschool/daycare on 15th Avenue and Pine Tree Road in Invermere.
President of Generation Homes, Christine Scott, said about Pine Tree Valley: “This community is designed to meet the needs of our locals. Some people are ready to get out of the rental market entirely and live life on their own terms . . . for those people we have designed 32 homes starting in the low $300,000s. Other folks aren’t quite ready to make that leap but need the stability of housing that is designed for long term renters. For those people we have 68 new purpose built rental homes available starting this fall.”
CMHC works with individual homeowners to insure their mortgage, allowing for a much lower down payment. They also work with the home building community to provide access to financing and project funding. Additionally, they conduct research leading to valuable statistical analysis that helps to determine what ‘affordability’ actually means. The very concept of affordability is a moving target that can vary
matically from
to
even within
Generation Homes creating affordability
Continued from page 12
This helps municipalities and builders determine what type of housing is necessary to meet the needs within their community.
Scott added: “Building affordably can be a challenge due to trade shortages, provincial and national building code requirements, interest rates and long delays for services. We work to reduce the upfront costs as much as possible through multi-family design. We also work to reduce the monthly cost by ensuring that our homes are built to a higher standard, lowering the monthly cost for homeowners and renters and making the home more durable and comfortable. We can’t control interest rates but we can look ahead to the consistently increasing energy costs and protect our buyers over the long term.”
We asked some homeowners in Pine Tree Valley how they made the leap from renting to homeownership. Ray Mercado, one of the first homeowners to move into the community, said “We came from the Philippines five years ago and as a first time buyer had to save.”
The couple worked hard to get their downpayment and was so excited to move in. “This is our place, this is our home! We worked a lot to get our dream home. It’s been fantastic to live here and it’s a dream for us.”
Despite being new to Canada, parents and expecting a baby, the Mercados made it their mission to own their own home. During their first visit to the community they asked a ton of questions to figure what they needed to do to buy their first home. They left with a plan in hand and came back eight months later ready
to go.
In fact most of the homes in Pine Tree Valley are owned by locals that worked hard and saved their money to achieve the dream of owning their own homes.
Another homeowner, Katie Saurer, worked as a waitress when she started saving her downpayment. Katie and Nolan struggled to find a rental that would accept their dog, Snoop, so Katie and her family worked together to bridge the financing requirements. In no time Katie, Nolan and Snoop were enjoying the beautiful mountain views from their own patio.
The reality of housing in Invermere is that it is unlikely to decrease in price. If we look to other nearby tourist communities; Canmore, Kelowna, Vernon, for example, we can see that pricing is continuing to escalate. From Katie and Nolan’s perspective, “It is fantastic to just get started in the market . . . as prices increase in our community so will our equity!”
And for those folks that are in the rental market, there is good news on the horizon as well.
“Soon we will be moving renters into brand new purpose-built rentals . . . allowing our renters to relax knowing their home will not be sold for another purpose. The rental homes are built to the same standards as the for sale homes, offering energy efficiency, exterior storage, spacious designs, and incredible views,” said Scott.
Generation Homes also works with local businesses to provide rental housing directly to the businesses. Infinity Solar is one business that plans to take advantage of this amazing opportunity to house some of their staff.
“We have scaled to a 14-person full time firm and housing has continued to be a sticking point for our team. Many of our team lives outside the Columbia Valley since there was no housing or rental options for them here. Having this option of affordable, attainable, and energy efficient housing in the valley really increases our chances of retaining talent and therefore full-time families into our community.”
With all of these exciting rental and ownership opportunities on the horizon it looks like finding a home in Invermere will soon be a bit easier.
The crew at Generation Homes are also opening a new show home August long weekend and invite everyone to stop by for snacks, tours and a few special offers! With interest rates finally coming down a bit homeowners can look forward to monthly payments as low as $2,100 per month.
Are locals going to be able to afford to live and work in our beautiful valley? With the right level of commitment and flexibility, solutions can be found, but they might take a little sacrifice and time.
Many of the purchasers Generation Homes spoke to repeated a similar ideal that “once we decided what we wanted - we worked, we saved and we made it happen. It wasn’t easy but we did it anyways.”
In conclusion, Scott said: “I am so excited to see our vision coming together and to see the locals taking advantage of this opportunity to get into the market. Homeownership is an investment that pays off in so many ways . . . from providing a roof over your head to providing security for your future.”
For more information: generationhomesinvermere.com or cmhc-schl.gc.ca.
As the sun’s rays burn through the trees, a young buck stands in solitude near the highway, ironically near a wildlife warning sign for motorists.
PHOTO JUSTIN SAIN
ENTERTAINMENT
Homegrown hip hop artist takes stage
By Steve Hubrecht steve@columbiavalleypioneer.com
Homegrown Invermere hip hop artist Joey Rogal (also known by his stage name MC Joey Vyvanse) is gearing up for his biggest show in his hometown since the COVID-19 pandemic.
The show, at ULLR Bar, is free and will help Invermere kick off the long weekend on the night of Friday, Aug. 2. It follows hot on the heels of Rogal’s latest release, an EP titled ‘GELATO’, which just came out on Sunday, July 28.
Wait a minute – a new EP and a big hometown show for a homegrown hip hop artist from Invermere?
Yes, Invermere. And indeed Rogal, a self-described “theatre kid,” does not fit the normal hip hop stereotype. But give his songs a listen. He not only writes and raps the lyrics, he does most of the instrumentation, and does the production work as well.
His songs deal with a range of topics — relationships, romance, friendships, addiction, personal struggles. The inspiration for them is both universal and
personal.
“I’m just trying to tell stories about the things I see around me,” Rogal told the Pioneer. “I draw on the experiences of friends, family, myself, acquaintances and anyone else I know, or even just kind of know, who I think might be interesting. I try to imagine things from their perspective.”
The beats are catchy (at least to the untrained ear of the Pioneer); some of the songs are slower, some heavier. But fast or slow, they all seem to have a knack for making you click on the next song, then the next, then the next, much longer than you intended.
Rogal is the first to concede that “growing up in Invermere meant I was a far cry from any kind of environment that people would think of as fostering hip hop . . . there is not a big rap scene here by any means. Or really any kind of rap scene.”
The first concert he remembers attending was a Justin Beiber show in Calgary.
“That sparked a songwriting thing for me,” recalled Rogal. He was first in-
Flames for Food Golf Tournament with Calgary Flames Alumni Hockey players is your chance to meet the players and donate to the Columbia Valley Food Bank.
Hosted by Copper Point Golf Club, players will be available to meet the public and sign autographs at Noon on Thursday, August 8th at Copper Point – Point Course. Public donations and all net proceeds of the inaugural Flames for Food Celebrity Pro-Am golf tournament support the dedicated work of the Columbia Valley Food Bank, to relieve hunger in the Columbia Valley.
clined to pop music (somewhat naturally, given the Beiber concert) while his parents always listened to country music. Around Grade 3 he tried to start a band. That didn’t take off, but he remained keenly interested in music, and as he grew up his older siblings (he is the youngest of four), particularly his brother Sam, introduced him to rap and other types of music.
In high school he and a friend made up a track list for a mock album about a Star Wars movie. It was a joke, but Rogal went home and wrote a verse for one of the songs. He rapped it for his friend, who was impressed.
“And something happened there. I liked it. I really liked it,” said Rogal, adding that in hindsight “I have always loved writing, loved words, loved English, so it was honestly a fairly natural progression . . . I’ve been doing it ever since, and from then on it’s been about finding inspiration and about constantly trying to improve.”
Rogal began putting out songs on Sound Cloud when he was 16 years old. Through the years those songs got progressively better, in Rogal’s own estimation, and he began distributing his music through other platforms. He’s now 22 and has two full albums, the GELATO EP, and plenty of singles. You can even find his very early releases still on Sound Cloud, and episode four of his ‘blue door freestyles’ on Tik Tok is a blast of pure listening fun.
He had his first live show at the former Copper City Saloon (now Begginnings restaurant) when he was still in high school, and began performing at the Fresh Friday events at Pynelogs. Eventually COVID-19 hit and put an end to live shows for Rogal and for every other musician on the planet.
Rogal has only done one truly big live performance since, at a music festival in Sundre, Alberta in 2023, and even then he was pushed into it by a friend
(who just happened to be a festival organizer).
“So my buddy made me go through with it. I got up there . . . and it was one of the best times of my life,” said Rogal.
Part of the delay was that Rogal wanted to take his time to put out some music that he felt was better quality than what he had previously released. Now that he has, he’s eager to take the stage at ULLR this weekend.
“Hip hop is an art form, and as a hip hop artist in Invermere, I feel like I’m always trying to convince people to give me a chance,” said Rogal. “Whether you feel like you understand hip hop or not, if you have an appreciation for music, especially local music, then come to my show.”
The show starts at 10 p.m. at ULLR and is part of the First Fridays, a monthly event started a few years ago by a group of art galleries in Invermere. They are held on the first Friday of each month through the summer
What began as an art walk and arts event, outlined organizer Cajsa Fredin, “has now grown to include the whole downtown core and more, with arts events, music, art openings, workshops, local independent films, shops open late and pop up street art and happenings that take you through the town.” First Fridays kick off at 5 p.m., including this Friday’s show.
“We have a lot of amazing talent in this area, and our shops are vibrant . . . so it is fun to mix the two,” said Fredin. “The focus is local talent, including artists, musicians, writers . . . having them featured in favourite local hangouts creates a unique experience where people can pop in and out to various locations and experience a little taste of East Kootenay culture.”
Fredin is excited for Rogal’s concert.
“He’s really talented. He’s unique in Invermere, and he’s already got a good local following,” she said.
Invermere hip hop artist Joey Rogal plays his first big hometown show since the COVID-19 pandemic at ULLR Bar on Friday, Aug. 2.
PHOTO SUBMITTED
Kiss, Marjanovic grace Artym
Submitted by Artym Gallery
The Artym Gallery welcomes painters Andrew Kiss and Branko Marjanovic. The artists will be in attendance for the opening reception Friday Aug. 2 from 5 to 7 p.m. and doing a painting demonstration Saturday Aug. 3 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
For over two decades, Andrew has travelled Highway 93/95 every year to art shows at the Artym. Most people have travelled this highway many times; his intent is to evoke one’s memory of a hike or special place. Along the way he usually captures the scene with a sketch or photo, then creates the paintings in studio. For this exhibition you will see his incredibly detailed paintings of Numa Falls, Kootenay River, and Olive Lake. Also at the show, there are high alpine
works with animals, florals, and birds that look so real that you want to touch them!
Branko has also painted local favourite spots — the Bugaboos, Welsh Lake, Lake of the Hanging Glacier, and Cobalt Lake, just to name a few. He is fascinated by the effects of the light and shade found in nature, perfectly working his brush strokes with strong, vibrant colour.
Whether you have been there, or dream of going, this show is for you.
Everyone is welcome to the opening and then again for the art demo. Andrew will be working in oil, Branko in acrylic. You can view all of the paintings online at www.artymgallery.com The exhibition will continue until August 9.
Photos below: Marjanovic (left) and Kiss (right)
Andrew Kiss & Branko Marjanovic
Friday, August 2, 5-7pm Saturday, August 3, 10-2pm Exhibition continues until August 9
www.artymgallery.com 250-342-7566 info@artymgallery.com
Monday-Saturday 10am-5:30pm Sunday 11am-3pm
Coaster, ropes course open at Panorama
By Steve Hubrecht steve@columbiavalleypioneer.com
There are two new major summer attractions in the Columbia Valley this summer, with Panorama Mountain Resort having recently opened its Wild Rider mountain coaster and with its Timberline Traverse aerial ropes tower set to open just as this issue of the Pioneer went to press.
A mountain coaster resembles a roller coaster, with the key differences being that a mountain coaster track winds downhill along a mountain slope, and that a mountain coaster has individual sleds running separately down the track, each controlled by an individual rider (rather than the stereotypical roller coaster connected of cars).
The Wild Rider is a family-friendly ‘pipe’-style mountain coaster winding 1.1 kilometres down from the Discovery Quad, with twists, turns and outstanding views along the way, descending 166 metres in elevation.
The aerial ropes tower is a multi-level high ropes course, also very family friendly, with four different levels (ranging from 15 feet to 60 feet above the ground) and 50 different obstacles for participants to clamber, climb, swing, and crawl through.
Panorama president and chief executive officer Steve Paccagnan noted that the Wild Rider is the only mountain
coaster in the Upper Columbia Valley or the neighbouring Cranbrook-Kimberley area.
“In the 10 short days since it opened, we’ve had a significant number of people on it,” Paccagnan told the Pioneer last week. “We’ve had everyone from children as young as three or four years old riding with adults, to an 85year old.”
Some riders came from other parts of the East Kootenay up to the Columbia Valley, travelling more than 200 kilometres specifically to try the Wild Rider.
Paccagnan outlined that the Wild Rider is a great example of ‘easy fun’; the mountain coaster “gives riders the same feeling of descending down a mountain, as does skiing or mountain biking — that same thrill. But it doesn’t require the gear or technical ability that skiing or mountain biking do.”
The Timberline Traverse, located just uphill from the Mile 1 Quad loading area, also appeals to a wide demographic, and with its varying degrees of difficulty, it offers something for everyone.
The two new attractions are “two big anchors” in Panorama’s summer strategy, explained Paccagnan, helping bolster the resort’s ever growing reputation as a summer destination. They add to the mountain biking, hiking, alpine sightseeing, activity centre (with climbing wall, EuroBungy and more), food,
music, events, and other activities on offer.
The Wild Rider and Timberline Traverse cost $3.5 million, and crews having been working since mid-May to set them up. The initial plan was to have them open in time for the Canada Day long weekend, but this year’s cold, wet spring resulted in a fair amount of snow falling up at Panorama Mountain Resort, which delayed construction by a few weeks.
Having the coaster and the aerial ropes tower benefits not just Panorama but the entire Columbia Valley, said Paccagnan. The more unique attractions here, the more reasons summer visitors have to come.
“It benefits the regional tourism economy. It creates more jobs. It brings people to Panorama, and those visitors often stop in Invermere, Radium and other communities on their trip here,” he said.
Around noon on July 27, the base
bustling with visitors, many of them waiting in line to ride the Discovery Quad up to the start of the Wild Rider. June Traptow and her three grandchildren — River Pyper, 17 years old, Truth Pyper, 14, and Theo Pyper, 11, — were visiting from Red Deer and had just finished riding the coaster for the second time. All were enthusiastic. So much so that each grandchild had readily agreed to pay for a second ride out of their own pocket, after Traptow had paid for everyone’s first ride.
“It was awesome,” said Theo. River and Truth were both impressed at just how fast the ride was.
“It’s really neat being able to control your own speed,” Traptow told the Pioneer. “I love the atmosphere here.”
She recalled visiting Panorama in the 1980s, noting that all there was in the base area in summer at the time was “a lot of gravel.” Traptow indicated the many attractions, programs and shops around her. “It’s changed so much.
Panorama Mountain Resort recently opened its new ‘Wild Rider’ mountain coaster.
PHOTOS SUBMITTED
Summer library programs in full swing
This week’s column was written by Invermere library assistant Dallas Husar. Visit the website or call 250-342-6416 for more information.
Summer is in full swing in the Columbia Valley and the Invermere Public Library is no exception.
We have tons of ways to help community members young and old have a fun and exciting summer. All of our programming is open to members and non-members alike, and is free to attend.
Our biggest program of the summer is Summer Reading Club (SRC) designed for kids aged 5-12. The SRC is a two-part program.
The first part encourages children to read at home and track their reading to earn a prize. We still have plenty of reading logs available if anyone would like to join. The second part is when children join us on Tuesdays for fun activities, crafts and games centred around a different theme every week.
This year’s SRC theme is “World of Curiosities,” and Japhy and Dee have lots of fun and creative things planned
for the kids. There are two sessions, one for 5-8 year olds (11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.) and one for 9-12 year olds (2-3:30 p.m.).
Registration is required to attend the program, so please call 250-342-6416 to save your spot.
Interested in completing a reading log to earn a chance at prizes, but a bit older than 12? Do not fear, we have both a Teen Summer Reading Challenge and an Adult Challenge too! Drop by to grab your sheet today.
In addition to SRC, we also have two Storytime sessions a week. Every Friday we host Pop-up Storytime, visiting different locations throughout the valley. Join us at Wilder Memorial Park (August 2), Edible Acres (August 23) and Panorama Adventure Centre (August 30), all at 10:30 a.m.
Head to our website to see the complete list of Pop-up Storytime locations. Or join us for Saturday Storytime at the library at 10:30 a.m. Weather permitting, these Storytime events take place on the lawn.
Following Saturday Storytime, Lego Club meets in the mezzanine from 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. – all ages are welcome to drop in.
Board game afternoons also take place every Saturday from 2 to 4 p.m., and our board game selection is available anytime to use in-house. In fact, as I sit here typing, four families have
Columbia Extreme
joined forces for a fun game of Headbandz, sharing plenty of laughs on this hot summer day.
Did you know we offer more than just books on loan? We also have a large ‘Library of Things.’ Are you interested in birding? We have both a kid and adult bird backpack. Maybe you have a child who is interested in fishing. We have a youth fishing kit to borrow (the grownup must have their fishing licence).
Do these hot days have your kids wanting to read outside? They may enjoy borrowing one of our reading tents to set up and enjoy their books. Or use it for indoor camping play while avoiding the smoke. Something not working on your car? Come borrow our car code scanner (OBD diagnostic tool) before you head to the mechanic.
Every month the library hosts several adult programs that encourage folks to gather and share their different interests. The Novel Idea Book Club is open to the public and everyone is encouraged to join.
Each month, our adult programmer, Katy, selects a book sure to generate a good discussion. ‘Read it and Eat’ is our monthly cookbook club aimed at foodies throughout the valley. A featured cookbook is selected, people come ahead of time to pick which recipe they would like to make for the potluck gathering. ‘Needles and Hooks’ takes
place every first and third Thursday of the month at 2 p.m. Everyone is welcome to bring their textile projects to work amongst others, and to share tips and good conversation. We also host CommuniTEA, the second and fourth Thursday of every month at 2 p.m. All adults are welcome to come and join for a refreshing cup of hot or iced tea. This is a lovely way to get to know fellow community members in a relaxed and welcoming setting.
In the heat, the library is a great spot to cool down during operating hours (Monday, Tuesday 10-5; Wednesday, Thursday 10-8; Friday, Saturday 105). We have plenty of seating and tables, along with a water bottle filling station. Please feel free to come enjoy a break from the warm outdoors. And if a quiet refuge is what you really require, please contact us to book time in our (mostly) soundproof work pod.
We love meeting new people, so if you haven’t had a chance to visit us yet, what are you waiting for? Come by for a visit and let us help make the most of your summer.
Saturday, Aug. 3 is the Friends of the Library’s Big Book Sale. This is the biggest fundraiser of the year and the best time to stock up on some great reads. Sale runs from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. in the courthouse parking lot (7th Avenue and 4th Street). Cash only.
• Controlled pile burning • Wood splitting • Brushing • Tree skidding and small logging
A cool leap - The Wenz family jumps in Lake Windermere to cool off during the recent hot spell.
PHOTO SANDRA WENZ
Doug Clovechok, MLA
Doug Clovechok, MLA
Columbia River-Revelstoke www.DougClovechok.ca
MLA Minute
Wildfire reform is needed right now
Folks, we are in the thick of wildfire season with several significant fires raging in Columbia River-Revelstoke.
My thoughts and prayers are with all those who are affected and I have profound gratitude for the pilots, firefighters, and support crews who are working to keep our communities safe.
Bold wildfire reforms are needed right now. BC United is calling out David Eby’s NDP government for its ongoing failure to implement proactive and effective wildfire management strategies.
Last year, BC United released a comprehensive blueprint for reforming British Columbia’s wildfire preparedness, response, and recovery strategies — an actionable plan that has been largely ignored by the NDP. Input from impacted communities, local leaders, and residents who have been displaced by wildfires was valuable in putting together this plan, something no other party has put forward. With the continuing heatwave and the worsening conditions for wildfires, the time for action is overdue.
BC United’s comprehensive wildfire policy reforms include:
• Modernized firefighting services: Establishing a modern, full-time firefighting service with more front-line personnel, an expanded provincial aircraft fleet, and cutting-edge fire suppression technology to protect homes and infrastructure.
• Leveraging local expertise: Deploying local contractors for rapid fire suppression, streamlining their use to enhance B.C.’s response capabilities.
• Empowering local response teams: Equipping and empowering lo-
cal volunteer fire response teams, including First Nations and community members, with essential supplies and resources.
• Swift support for evacuees: Pledging automatic financial support for evacuees during the first 72 hours, alongside efficient aid through streamlined Emergency Social Services for people and communities.
• Forest management and prevention: Aggressively overhauling forestry management practices, emphasizing swift responses to fires and reducing wildfire risk through selective harvesting, expedited permits, regulatory changes, and financial incentives.
Under the NDP, vital reforms like overhauling forest management practices and increasing prevention measures have been stalled, leaving our communities at risk. Our comprehensive strategy not only fights fires more effectively but also strengthens community resilience against future threats.
BC United is urging the NDP to adopt these reforms immediately to prevent further loss and suffering. As wildfire seasons intensify, the need for bold, decisive action has never been more urgent.
We simply cannot stand by and watch the needless destruction of our precious forests and potential loss of our communities.
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.
MLA Minute
THE VILLAS: Construction is progressing! We have sidewalks now! There is still time to choose your colours and finishes but this opportunity won’t wait — fall possession is almost here!!
THE WILLOW: Ready for immediate possession! Two bedrooms, two baths. Full basement, ready for your imagination. Enjoy the rest of the summer in your new home.
Exotic critters excite kids at Wildlife Festival
The wild life - Young and old were amazed by the exotic animals on display at the Wildlife Festival at Columbia Valley Centre on Friday, July 26. See more photos on page 23.
Pursuant to Section 494 of the Local Government Act, public notice is hereby given that the RDEK is considering the Short-Term Rental Temporary Use Permits (STR TUP) listed in the table below. Issuance of the proposed permits will be considered by the delegated staff person at 10:00 am on August 14, 2024 at the RDEK office at 19 - 24 Ave S in Cranbrook, BC.
88-24 #72 – 1492 Akiskinook Road, Windermere
91-24 4747 Lakehill Road, Windermere
103-24 4317 Grand View Road, Columbia Ridge 010-464-239
117-24 6997 Highway 93/95, Columbia Ridge
All persons who believe they are affected by any of the Short-Term Rental Temporary Use Permits are encouraged to submit their concerns in writing to the RDEK office at 19 - 24 Ave S Cranbrook, BC or by email to planningdept@rdek.bc.ca prior to 4:30 pm on August 9, 2024. All submissions should include your name and address. Please be advised that any written submissions will become part of public record. The permit is available for viewing by email request, on the RDEK website (www.rdek.bc.ca/meetings_events/publichearings) or at the Cranbrook RDEK Office between the hours of 8:30 am and 4:30 pm, Monday to Friday, excluding statutory holidays. To search for properties online, visit: www.rdek.bc.ca/departments/mapping. For more information contact Planning Department staff at 250-489-2791 or by email at planningdept@rdek.bc.ca. All written submissions are public information pursuant to the Freedom of Information and Protection of Privacy Act. All submissions will form part of the public record. Questions about the disclosure of your personal information may be referred to the Corporate Officer at 250-489-2791 or 1-888-478-7335.
PHOTOS SYD DANIS
PIONEER CLASSIFIEDS
Joe was born on February 28, 1926 to Margaret and hugh Fuller, the third of four children (Art, Constance, Joe and Ted). At 14, he quit school to look after Uncle Jack’s farm while Jack was at war. Joe signed up for the Army in 1944 and was in training when the war ended. Upon his return, he was a scoutmaster for the First Lake Windermere Group, and taught the Cadet program to valley youth.
Joe married eileen hudson on July 28, 1948. They were together until her passing in 2011 - 62 years! Joe built three homes for the family, Daryl arrived while in the first home, and Wayne and Audrey in their second home.
he was one of the first Invermere Councilmen 1949 to 1951, with Dr. Coy, Major Bell & William Weir. A Charter Member of the Windermere District Lions Club on october 25, 1951 and was honoured at their 70th Anniversary. A proud member of the Royal Canadian Legion, Branch 71 in Invermere, he was there to collect his 65 year membership pin. he was also a part of the Toby Benches society. he had many hobbies - gold panning, fishing, gardening, fixing things and woodworking. he was always up for some cribbage, too. Joe & eileen hiked with a hiking club, always encouraging family & friends to go along, climbing pretty much every mountain and visiting every lake in the area.
Larson, Muriel Grace
Muriel Grace Larson, a beloved wife, mother, sister, and friend, left us to join the angels on July 23, 2024, passing away peacefully with three of her cherished children by her side.
Muriel’s life journey began in North Battleford, Saskatchewan, where she grew up in a lively household with her mom, dad, and ten siblings. Her early years were filled with the love and camaraderie that come with being part of such a large family. In her teens, Muriel moved to British Columbia, where she would meet and marry her sweetheart, Carl Edward Larson. Together, they built a beautiful family, blessed with seven children, raising six of them in the close-knit community of Canal Flats, BC.
Muriel was a woman of extraordinary kindness, love, and devotion. She dedicated herself wholeheartedly to her children, nurturing them with endless patience and unwavering support. Her generous spirit extended beyond her family; she was a true friend to all who knew her, always ready with a helping hand and a warm smile.
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.
7 pm at the BC Service Building, South End. 624-4th St. Invermere
Joe and eileen loved to toboggan and they took their kids to a special hill near Lake Lillian. They loved that spot and when panorama Drive was re-routed, Joe had the opportunity to buy that property in 1980 and built their home with a million dollar view of Lake Lillian, Mount Nelson and their personal toboggan hill.
In 2017, Joe was diagnosed with Dementia and moved into Ivy house where he passed away peacefully on December 15, 2019, at the age of 93. Joe was predeceased by his Father, hugh; Mother Margaret; Brothers Art and Ted; sister Connie; his wife, eileen; and their first baby boy.
he is survived by his children; Daryl (Dianne Gibson), Wayne (Conny strüb), Audrey (steve) Mantyka, Grandsons Joshua and Logan Walker, Kaelan Fuller, Graham, Andrew and Michael Fuller; 13 Great Grandchildren and many other family members and friends.
Joe will be remembered for his smile, kindness, his many creations, his love of the valley, his family and his many contributions to the community.
The family will place Joe in his final resting place, the Windermere Cemetary Columbarium, alongside eileen, with a spectacular view of Lake Windermere, the mountains and wildlife to watch over.
The family is hosting a celebration of Joe’s life on Sunday, August 4, 2024 at the r oyal Canadian legion, Branch 71 Invermere from 1:30 to 4:00 pm. everyone is welcome.
CHEERS
Cheers to Kandi Krebs for the great haircut!
A big shout out to the BMO manager Shannon. We appreciate your expertise on a financial issue we were having. Lucky us to have you in our town.
Cheers to Geoff Hill for going above and beyond selling our house. This wasn’t easy for us and you were there every step of the way. So happy we chose you.
RVs / CAMPERS / TRAILERS
2002 Jayco Designer 32ft 5th Wheel
One owner, RV has been parked at a local resort since 2012 and must now be sold. Includes a built in electrical generator. Ideal as a temporary home or use the generator for heat in the winter!
$7,999 o.b.o
Phone 403-472-2314
LESSONS at Fairmont Hot Springs with Rocky Mountain Swim lessons. Book online
Her love for the outdoors was evident in her passion for activities like golfing, curling, swimming, and skiing. Muriel’s artistic talents were many and varied. She had a knack for painting, crafting, and scrapbooking, creating beautiful works that will be treasured by those she left behind. An exceptional seamstress, crocheter, knitter, and cross-stitcher, her hands brought to life countless items of beauty and comfort.
Muriel’s life was not without its trials, sorrows, and losses. Yet, through it all, she remained strong and true to her faith, a testament to her resilient spirit and unwavering belief. Her strength and grace in the face of adversity were an inspiration to everyone who had the privilege of knowing her.
Muriel Grace Larson will be remembered for her boundless love, her artistic gifts, and her enduring faith. Her legacy lives on in the hearts of her family and friends, and in the many lives she touched with her kindness and generosity.
Rest in peace, dear Muriel. You will be deeply missed, but your spirit will forever shine brightly in our memories.
Survived by: her children Ivar Carl (Donna Tardif), Neil August (Penny Stanley), (Anne Detta Lance’s Wife), Iona Joy, and Nathan Traverse.
Predeceased by: her husband Carl Edward, daughters Debra June and Melanie Sonya, and son Lance Leslie.
Service info: August 2, 2024, at Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints 2210 2 St N, Cranbrook, BC. 10:00-11:00 meet the family; 11:00 Service; 12:00 Luncheon; 2:00 Family Graveside service.
Individual wells, no
ing time commitment. Starting at $329,000 + GST For more information, contact Elkhorn Ranches: 250-342-1267 www.elkhornranches.com
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
Well Water Dowsing
Call before you drill Dale Hunt
250-342-3569
Get-ER-Done Handyman
Landscaping, Asphalt Pads, General Contracting, Cleaning Gutters, House Checks, Pressure Washing. Call Ryan 604-346-5087
B. B.’s Home and Design Services
Renovations, Masonry & Handyman Services, Blinds, House checks, eavestrough/ yard cleaning/dump runs. 250-688-2897
HELP WANTED
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, August 12, 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.
Eagle-Eye Tours
Client Services & Logistics
Based in Windermere, BC, we are Canada’s largest birding tour operator. We offer tours around the world and are looking for someone that can help us put together exceptional experiences for our clients. In this position you will have a variety of tasks including correspondence with clients, researching and booking hotels, issuing travel insurance and more. This is a long-term position where we can discuss your preferred number of hours/ week (30-40) and opportunities for remote work.
Core responsibilities include:
• Client correspondence (inquiries, invoicing, etc.)
• Logistics (planning tours, booking hotels, vehicles and flights)
Requirements include:
• Strong computer skills
• Ability to work independently
• Excellent customer service skills
• Excellent communication skills (written & oral)
• Rigorous attention to detail and strong organizational skills
• Ability to manage competing priorities
• An interest in travel
We offer a competitive wage, benefits, flexibility, interesting work, and a collegial positive work environment. We anticipate work beginning as soon as you are available.
Please see eagle-eye.com/careers for more information and to apply. Application deadline is Aug 11th by 5 pm.
Eagle-Eye Tours
Customer Success & Sales
If you love travel and love helping people make travel plans, this job is for you. Working for Canada’s largest birding tour operator, you’ll be answering inquiries about our tours and addressing client feedback and concerns. We are a small team, which means you will have the opportunity to contribute your ideas and energy to the growth of our unique business. This is a long-term position where we can discuss your preferred number of hours/week (3040) and opportunities for remote work.
Core responsibilities include:
· Correspondence with prospective clients about our tours
· Responding to client feedback
Requirements include:
· Sales experience
· Excellent communication skills (written & oral)
· Demonstrated ability to help customers
· Rigorous attention to detail and strong organizational skills
· Ability to manage competing priorities
· An interest in travel
We offer a competitive wage, benefits, flexibility, interesting work, and a collegial positive work environment. We anticipate work beginning as soon as you are available.
Please see eagle-eye.com/careers for more information and to apply.
Application deadline is Aug 11th by 5 pm.
Invermere on the Lake
PERMISSIVE PROPERTY TAX EXEMPTION FOR 2025
Application forms for organizations which might be eligible for a Permissive Tax Exemption are now available at the Municipal Office, 914 – 8th Avenue and on our website at www.invermere.net under “Important Links” on the home page.
A Permissive Tax Exemption is a means for Council to support organizations within the community which further council’s objectives of enhancing quality of life and delivery of services economically. A Permissive Tax Exemption is strictly at the discretion of the District of Invermere Council.
The application forms are for a tax exemption for 2025 property taxes as per regulations set out in the Community Charter.
To be eligible, nature of the organization must be:
Not for profit organization
Charitable or philanthropic organization
An athletic or service club or association
Care facility or licensed private hospital
• Partner of the municipality by agreement under s.225 of the Community Charter
Other local authority
Organization eligible under s.220 statutory exemption (e.g. public worship, senior home, hospital)
Deadline for the receipt of applications: August 15, 2024 at 4:30 pm local time.
Please call our office at 250.342.9281 if you require any additional information.
Karen Coté Director of Finance
Columbia Valley Churches
Memorable summer journeys
Rev. Terry Dyck Lake Windermere Alliance Church
Have you had any memorable journeys this summer?
Are there plans in the works? Is a journey home on the horizon?
Our faith community has been exploring journeys in the Bible this summer. All kinds of them, on boats, roads, and camels. We’ve been considering spiritual, metaphorical, physical and emotional journeys.
We are looking at journeys home.
Recently we have considered the Bible character Nehemiah’s journey to his homeland. He was a man who lived in exile far away from his ancestral home. Likely never having visited his homeland, he became impassioned to journey home after hearing of the dire conditions of other exiles returning to their ravaged homeland.
Nehemiah’s journey is a story of personal renewal, of unexpected provision and help from unexpected allies. He discovered a healthy community and reconnection with his people. Along with being able to provide real help, make a significant impact for the future of a nation. Did I mention that he was a regular kind of guy, a servant to a foreign leader? Search his story out sometime, I believe you will be inspired, encouraged and challenged about your journeys.
There are many reasons you and I journey home, various and sundry. We journey home to connect or reconnect with family and friends. Those journeys can
be totally joy filled or completely exhausting, and everything in between. Going home can involve great geographic distances or they can be just down the street. Likewise, these visits can be casual, chill, and restful, or extract a great deal of energy and suck the very life out of us.
Today, consider this - you are ‘home’ that some people journey to.
Ask yourself questions like these: What kind of home are you? Are you a home to manage, one that people travel to in order to help, care for or support? Is it a joy for people to come home to you? Do travellers regard a visit to your home as high need and requiring unusual levels of maintenance? This kind of neediness may be physical, but consider the emotional energy required to travel home . . . to be with you. Are people refreshed after spending time with you, is their journey worth the effort and cost? Do you make deposits into others’ lives, or are you more often making withdrawals on every front? Do you create the kind of environment where people look for ways to journey in your direction, wherever you are?
Don’t get me wrong, there are seasons of higher need for all of us. There are legitimate times where we need and highly value the journeys family and friends make to be present in our lives. I hope you have those in your life who are willing to make extraordinary efforts to journey your direction. Equally, I trust your life is marked by journeys towards others. Journeys where you don’t expect to be filled up, but you intentionally give yourself for the sake of others. And I hope you have at least a couple of ‘home’ people that will receive you, in whatever condition you are in . . . that’s real love.
I am hoping you have memorable, life-changing journeys in the days to come.
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
Minister: Brent Woodard No summer services. For more information, please check our website at wvsm.ca
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
Summer journeys like kayaking from Canal Flats are what makes the Columbia Valley so memorable. PHOTO SYD DANIS