VALLEY NEWS
Concerned residents seek to slow speeders
By Steve Hubrecht steve@columbiavalleypioneer.com
Before someone is injured or killed, a group of Invermere residents concerned about speeding wants to see stop signs and a crosswalk on a street that sees plenty of pedestrians and vehicles jostling for position.
The residents live along or near 5th Street at the north end of Upper Invermere. Over the past few years as Invermere’s population leapt dramatically (exploding from just under 3,000 to just under 4,000 in a decade), so too did the volume of traffic using 5th Street as a conveniently stop-sign free artery to get between 10th Avenue and 13th Avenue.
“There’s too many people that just race up 5th Street,” resident Barry Wiseman told the Pioneer. “Some seem to feel it’s a quarter-mile drag strip.”
The speeders come from a wide demographic; teenagers, younger adults, middle aged adults, and even some seniors too, said Wiseman, adding that while most are driving private vehicles, some are driving business and commercial vehicles.
“We really feel there is an accident waiting to happen. We want to do something before that occurs.”
Barry Wiseman, resident
Many of these vehicles are hitting speeds up to and even in excess of 80 kilometres per hour, he estimated. This on a street that has no sidewalks and is heavily used by all sorts of pedestrians: cyclists; seniors out for a stroll; families walking to and from downtown; preschool groups out for a walk; kids on skateboards and on foot going to primary, elementary and high schools; and others.
“We really feel there is an accident waiting to happen. We want to do something before that occurs,” said Wiseman.
He pointed to statistics in reports in several Canadian municipalities (including Vancouver, Edmonton and Toronto) that outline widely varying survival rates for pedestrians struck by vehicles travelling at different speeds: 90 per cent survival rate for pedestrians struck by vehicles travelling at 30 kilometres per hour; 50 per cent for vehicles travelling 45 kilometres per hour; 15 per cent for vehicles travelling 60 kilometres per hour; and virtually no chance at all
for vehicles travelling 80 kilometres per hour.
“A lot of people (living on 5th Street) are fearful,” said Wiseman, adding one new neighbour “told me ‘I didn’t realized I’d moved to a speedway’.” Wiseman noted other neighbours pointedly always reverse into their driveway so that they are facing forward when they next drive out on to 5th Street. They do so because “backing out is just too dangerous,” he said.
Wiseman and other residents have asked the District of Invermere for solutions to the issue. They gathered signatures on a petition, representing almost every resident on or near 5th Street. Eventually the district did install two temporary stop signs at the intersection of 5th Street and 12th Avenue.
That has helped a bit (Wiseman said traffic has calmed somewhat, both in speed and in sheer volume). But one of the temporary stop signs was recently stolen (and then later replaced). Residents on 5th Street feel more can — and should — be done.
“We’re fighting for the temporary stop signs put in to be made permanent. We’re fighting for new stop signs (at the intersection of 5th Street and 13th Avenue). We’re fighting for a crosswalk (also at the intersection of 5th Street and 13th Avenue),” said Wiseman. The 5th Street residents also plan to ask the RCMP to do spot checks in the area to catch speeders, and to ask the district to at least consider permanently lowering the un-posted speed limit on 5th Street, if not all residential streets in Invermere, to 30 kilometres per hour.
Several municipalities in Canada, including Vancouver, Victoria, Canmore, Calgary, Edmonton, and Toronto have already adopted or are considering adopting reduced un-posted speed limits of either 30 kilometres per hour or 40 kilometres per hour on residential streets.
Wiseman outlined that 5th Street is hardly the only street in Invermere with a speeding problem, saying “this issue is happening in many other places in the district.”
"The increase in traffic in Invermere as a whole is horrific, which of course increases traffic everywhere. I have never ever experienced traffic in this town as it is now," added longtime 5th Street resident Diane Cote.
The 5th Street residents were scheduled to meet with Invermere officials at the committee of the whole meeting on Tuesday, Aug. 13.
Invermere residents living along or near 5th Street are raising concerns about speeders and the potential for pedestrians to be seriously injured or killed. They’d like to see this temporary stop sign at the corner of 5th Street and 12th Avenue made permanent, among other traffic calming measures.
PHOTO SUBMITTED
RCMP REPORT
Unclothed man raises alarm
By Cpl. Jeff Witzke Columbia Valley RCMP
On Sunday Aug. 4, the Columbia Valley RCMP were called to a commercial dwelling as there was a person intoxicated on alcohol/drugs and suffering from some apparent mental health issues. The individual was agitated, yelling and threatening others in the area.
Officers attended the location where they located the suspect, unclothed and in an apparent psychosis state. Members were able to calm down the individu-
Lake Windermere
al, who agreed to put on clothing and attend the hospital for an assessment.
On August 4, police were made aware of a minor collision at a parking lot in Fairmont where one of the drivers was reported to possibly be intoxicated. Members attended the scene and suspected the driver in question was impaired by alcohol and issued the breath demand. The driver provided samples of their breath where it was confirmed they were over the legal limit. As such, the driver was issued a 90-day driving suspension and their vehicle was impounded for 30 days.
Pulse Check
Submitted by Lake Windermere Ambassadors August 7
Average Water Temperature: 21.2°C
Average Water Depth: 4.5 m
Average Turbidity: 0.95 NTU
Average D.O.: 7.9 mg/L
Average pH: 7.9
It was a beautiful calm morning. We enjoyed the large cloud cover and clear air. We did not notice any significant changes in our parameters this week.
Thanks to Braeden of Living Lakes Canada for volunteering with us and to Gavin for providing the boat and driving us to our sampling sites. To volunteer with the Ambassadors, contact us at (250) 341-6898 or intern@lakeambassadors.ca
Canal Flats updates housing assessment
By Steve Hubrecht steve@columbiavalleypioneer
The Village of Canal Flats is in the midst of updating its housing needs assessment.
Canal Flats did its first housing assessment in 2021, and provincial legislation requires all BC municipalities to update their assessments every three years.
The village held an open house and is also running a survey until Aug. 30. The survey is available in hard copy from the village office or can be completed online at surveymonkey.ca/r/canalflatshousing.
A total of 12 people attended the open house, and 14 have already completed the survey.
Although these numbers are not sky high, they do represent a response rate that is already on par with the public input for the 2021 housing needs assessment, and they may rise more since the survey is still open for another few weeks, explained Canal Flats corporate officer Sylvie Hoobanoff. She noted that public input for the 2021 assessment may have been low because the consultation occurred in 2020 while the COVID-19 pandemic was at its height. All consultation then occurred digitally.
Canal Flats Mayor Mark Doherty explained that feedback so far is similar to what was heard in the 2021 assessment.
“What came out of it is there’s a great need for se-
niors’ housing in Canal Flats, a need for rental units for people who are working in the area, and a need for attainable housing.”
Doherty pointed out that attainable housing is somewhat different than affordable housing. He further elaborated that attainable housing, at least in Canal Flats, means young families looking to buy their first homes, as well as housing for employees.
“We’ve got a lot of entrepreneurs looking to move to Canal Flats, looking to bring business to Canal Flats. One of the obstacles they run into is there just aren’t many places for their employees to stay. If we can jump that hurdle, we could start to see some more light industrial businesses in Canal Flats,” said Doherty.
Canal Flats has a head start on some other BC municipalities trying to increase attainable and affordable housing, because accessory dwelling units (such as carriage homes above garages, and secondary suites) are already allowed in the village, added Hoobanoff.
The exploding number of short-term rentals (STRs) in Invermere, Radium Hot Springs and Regional District of East Kootenay Area F and G, which many residents feel are adversely impacting affordable housing and attainable housing in theses places, are not quite as big a deal in Canal Flats.
“It’s not a huge problem here yet,” said Hoobanoff. She estimated there are 12 to 15 STRs in Canal Flats.
“But it is growing,” she noted.
Four candidates vie for seats
Columbia Valley Pioneer staff
Four people have officially declared they are running as candidates in the upcoming byelection in Canal Flats.
Chief Election Officer Sylvie Hoobanoff confirmed the following candidates (two to be elected): Paul Mar-
cil, Mark Topliff, Denise Trepanier, and Andrew Weitzel.
The byelection, set for September 14, was declared after a pair of village councillors, Jennifer Noble and Anora Kobza, stepped down recently for personal reasons. Stay tuned for more on the four candidates in next week’s Pioneer
Evacuation order downgraded
Columbia
Valley Pioneer staff
The RDEK has reported that the evacuation order for the Ravenshead fire (Palliser/Cross River area) has been downgraded to an alert.
The alert is in effect for nine properties, including Nipika Mountain Resort, Cross River Education & Retreat Centre, Cross River Forest Service Road, and Cross River Canyon Recreation Site.
“While this is great news, the fire remains active” and residents should be ready to leave if conditions
worsen and an order is reinstated, said information officer Loree Duczek.
The area restriction put in place by BC Wildfire Service for this fire remains in effect, meaning that no member of the public is permitted to travel in this specific zone.
“We encourage all residents to ensure they continue to pay attention to the latest updates and any additional area closures or restrictions,” Duczek said.
The latest updates on the fire can be found on www.bcwildfire.ca.
The Village of Canal Flats is conducting its second housing needs survey until August 30.
PHOTO RYAN WATMOUGH
Taboo no more
Society is still treating suicide as a taboo subject that shouldn’t be discussed. Don’t talk about that; it’s too sensitive, too personal, too private. It might give people ideas.
But in reality, if we don’t talk about it, we are missing a crucial opportunity to prevent someone else from taking their own life.
Tattoo artist Laura Donovan of the Odanak First Nation is compelled to tell her story in a letter to the Regional District of East Kootenay (RDEK).
Her daughter Felicity, an Indigenous student, died by suicide in December 2023. Two months earlier, she had reached out for support at her school in Surrey, but according to her mother, the district did not follow suicide prevention protocols, ending in her daughter becoming another heartbreaking statistic.
In correspondence with the RDEK, Donovan revealed that Felicity, at one point, tried to hang herself but was found by her sister. Felicity said she was very thankful that her sibling intervened. “I was praying to God that someone would find me in time because I wanted to be saved,” the girl told a case worker in describing her stress about school and life.
Donovan requested a letter of support from the RDEK (which was approved) in her quest to ensure that all schools in BC are funded and equipped (by the Ministry of Education) to provide appropriate suicide prevention training. She is steadfast in her goal to save parents from the same grief that she experienced when she learned that Felicity was gone forever.
Young people who contemplate suicide must know they are not alone.
It was revealed at the Paris Olympics that Great Britain’s track and field star Matthew Hudson-Smith previously attempted suicide after experiencing setbacks in his athletic career. He went on to win silver in the men’s 400 metre final.
Hollywood stars Owen Wilson, Drew Barrymore, and Halle Barry attempted suicide but got back on the ladder to fame after seeking support.
There is a huge stigma attached to suicide, but there shouldn’t be. Life is a struggle for many people, and depression continues to force the light into the shadows.
Reach out by calling BC’s suicide prevention hotline at 1-800-784-2433 or dialling 9-8-8.
Another helpful program is called Learning Through Loss for teens and young adults (age 13 to 24). It offers free, short-term grief counselling for those struggling with death, illness and injury, family and relationship break-ups, loss of connection, climate and societal grief.
Through one-on-one and group support, the program breaks the cycle of isolation and provides a safe, motivational space in dark times.
For more information, visit learningthroughloss. org. Or call 250-413-3114. Don’t grieve alone. Lyonel Doherty, editor
Tougher stance needed
A Montreal man is launching a class-action lawsuit against several parent companies of major social media platforms, alleging that social media is designed to leverage dopamine – a neurotransmitter and hormone associated with pleasure (sometimes called the brain’s ‘reward centre’) – to entrap users into spending endless hours scrolling.
It's hard to know whether a judge will be convinced that Meta Platforms (which owns Facebook and Instagram) and the owners of TikTok, YouTube, and Reddit should pay compensatory and punitive damages. Regardless, the fundamental premise behind the lawsuit couldn’t be less controversial.
According to analysis on datareportal.com, hu-
manity spends a collective 500 million years on social media per year. Almost everyone can relate to how difficult it is to avoid becoming a major contributor to that statistic.
Why then are smartphones, machines with which one can instantaneously access the addictive platforms crafted by mad scientist techno-utopians in Silicon Valley, still permitted in most Canadian schools?
Look around a restaurant patio, and you realize that many adults struggle to stop themselves from checking in on the latest notification – these cunning gadgets manage to outcompete beer, hamburgers, and conversation for people’s attention.
Continued on page 7
LETTERS Province needs to get tougher on cell phones
Continued from page 6
One can imagine how much more difficult it is for a student without a fully formed prefrontal cortex to resist the urge to scroll in an early morning science class, in which the only competing factors for one’s attention are scientific notation and reverse osmosis.
In an effort to quell distraction in the classroom, Ontario and Quebec have both introduced smartphone bans. Here in B.C., Premier David Eby’s government issued a provincial order mandating that schools come up with a policy restricting phones by September. It’s a good start, but we need to go much further.
First off, the order leaves the writing of the policies to the school districts, leading to varying levels of strictness. It is up to districts, for instance, to decide whether to apply the ban only to class time or throughout the day. Another flaw is that teachers will end up being the ban’s enforcers - another headache in an already tough job.
The ideal approach is zero tolerance. Some American schools have taken this route, with great results. One such case is Bethlehem Central High School in the suburbs of Albany, New York. Students are required to keep phones in a special locked pouch until the end of the day. The rule applies to all students, and there are no exceptions for time in between classes or even for lunch hour.
In an interview with a Washington
Post columnist, principal Dave Doemel described the policy as “completely transformational.” He pointed to a cafeteria completely devoid of phones, and full of chattering students, as visual evidence. Lunch monitors at the school say they feel like they’re in the 1980s again.
To Doemel’s surprise, some of the students have told him the harsh ban feels liberating – they are relieved to not have to respond to texts and keep abreast of social media happenings throughout the day. Their minds are freed to focus on the here and now.
The research bears this out. According to a report from the Programme for International Assessment (PISA), there is a “strong association” between smartphone distraction and student outcomes. Students who were distracted by phones in math class scored 15 points lower on PISA math tests than others. According to one study referenced in a UNESCO report, it can take as long as 20 minutes for a student to regain focus after being distracted by the buzz of a notification from the phone in their pocket.
British Columbia students deserve an educational environment in which they can learn and thrive free of unnecessary distractions. Achieving this means keeping classrooms smartphone free by implementing a strict zero tolerance policy – half measures won’t cut it.
Riley Donovan, journalist, editor Dominion Review
RDEK considers fire prevention model
Columbia Valley Pioneer staff
The Regional District of East Kootenay (RDEK) is intrigued by state-ofthe-art fire prediction software being pitched by a company that wants to conduct a pilot project this fall.
Zubin Kothawala and Adam Preece from FireMark AI Inc. returned to the board as a delegation on August 9 to once again promote their high-tech model of fire prevention and containment.
The program predicts wildfires and can detect them at a distance using special software that gives information to first responders in real time. The model utilizes cameras, gas sensors, and satellite imagery to stand vigil and keep “watch.”
Kothawala said the software can detect smoke and fires kilometres away in a matter of minutes, which can greatly aid the response (without having to depend on the BC Wildfire Service). It was noted that the company’s main training and research area was Canal Flats.
Preece said they would like to begin the pilot in September and offer risk assessments by spring of 2025. He noted
the monthly cost of a basic kit is $4,200 ($50,400 annually). It was also mentioned that Panorama Mountain Resort has signed on as a pilot site.
During question period, board member Steve Fairbairn asked how the company reconciles flying drones in a fire zone when drones are prohibited by law.
Kothawala said there are special flight requirements they must adhere to, and much of their drone operation occurs at night using thermal cameras.
The board heard that FireMark has adjourned its pilot discussions with the BC Wildfire Service until fall because of the busy fire season.
Board member Don McCormick said he initially didn’t support FireMark’s proposal, but he has since changed his opinion. He noted the wildfire anxiety level among residents is high.
“If we wait for the provincial government, it’s never going to happen. The bottom line is if we don’t do it it’s not going to get done. I think the cost benefit is huge,” McCormick said.
Fellow member David Wilks said Sparwood had two close calls with wildfire last year.
PLEASE RECYCLE
“We are lucky this year but luck is going to run out,” he said, inviting FireMark to pitch their software to Sparwood.
Radium Mayor Mike Gray agreed the cost benefit is there, but he recom-
mended the board look at other options through a staff report.
Board chair Rob Gay said he would like to see a staff report as well, noting the board has not heard from the BC Wildfire Service on this model.
Gold miner featured on Discovery Channel
By Lyonel Doherty editor@columbiavalleypioneer.com
There’s gold in ‘them thar hills,’ and Vaughn Riches aims to find it.
In fact, he’ll get a little help from Gold Rush: Freddy Dodge’s Mine Rescue when his episode “Valley of Riches” airs first week of September on Discovery Channel.
Riches, born and raised in Invermere, is not sure how the television station got his number, and he never asked; he’s just stoked to be part of the show.
The episode was filmed more than a year ago and sees the show’s characters ‘Freddy’ and ‘Juan’ assist Riches in his Outlaw Mining operation.
“I hope to strike the motherlode one day so I can make life easier for all of those around me. One bucket of ‘paydirt’ can change your life,” Riches told the Pioneer.
He noted that gold is at $3,300 CDN per ounce (a record high) right now.
Riches owns a placer gold mine near the historical town of Barkerville. He has been commercial mining for the last three years with good success, “considering that 95 per cent of new miners fail.”
“I consider myself extremely lucky to do what I do. It's my passion! I've always had a love for the outdoors and exploring.”
Riches was introduced to prospecting by his ex father-in-law and instantly became enamoured by the hunt for gold, admitting that he’s got the “gold fever.”
That fever started 18 years ago when he began buying his own claims and panning in creeks.
He spent six years in Africa and saved enough money to start his own mining adventure.
A “ton of support” from family and friends made his dream come true. But it wasn’t easy. He worked two claims prior to the one the TV show was based on.
“These two first operations were definitely a learning experience, but I survived.”
He soon realized that it all came down to the right property.
“Once I hit this claim I'm on now things got easier. Easier mining and more gold. But it was also a struggle. There is always something breaking down or a problem.”
Out of the blue he received the call from the show asking if he would be interested in the help of Freddy Dodge and Juan Ibarra from Mine Rescue. Bring it on!
“Freddy and Juan are great people who love gold and are trying to help all (struggling) gold miners recover more from their operations.”
“I’m following my dreams and wish others to do the same. This is not easy work but every day is definitely an adventure.”
Riches offers some advice to beginners: “If you are planning to get into this type of hobby/lifestyle, do your homework and follow the government regulations. There’s gold out there, you just need to find it!”
NOW OPEN!
Gold miner Vaughn Riches (left) is seen here with Freddy Dodge and Juan Ibarra from Mine Rescue. PHOTO SUBMITTED
OUT OF OFFICE…
Dr. Schaffer’s Journey to the Columbia Valley
Growing up in small town Alberta Dr. Schaffer’s early life was shaped by the sports of his community; hockey and rodeo. At the age of 16, he bravely took up bareback riding, only to be bucked off, marking one of his many encounters with a spine board. A couple years later, he and his cousins thought they would give wild horse racing a try. Dr.Schaffer’s horse racing career ended the next year with a kick to the face and knee. After recovering, he completed his diploma in emergency services technology and worked in the oil and gas industry as a firefighter and paramedic. But his aspirations didn’t stop there.
At 24, Dr. Schaffer pursued a degree in human nutrition followed by medical school and a residency on Vancouver Island. His childhood vacations to the Columbia Valley had left a lasting impression, and he seized the opportunity to complete an eight-week residency in Invermere. During this time, he fell in love with the staff, nurses, and patients; cementing his desire to return to the community.
In 2016, Dr. Schaffer and his wife Brittany made the decision to move to Invermere, where he began his medical practice at the Chisel Peak Medical Centre. Dr. Schaffer’s journey took an exciting turn when his cousin, a manager for the medical support team at the Calgary Stampede, offered him a chance to reconnect with his rodeo roots. Filling in for the retiring head physician, Dr. John Zubis, Dr. Schaffer discovered a new passion for sports medicine. By 2021, he had taken over as the full-time doctor for the Calgary Stampede and began consulting with the Canadian Pro Rodeo Sports Medicine team.
Initially, Dr. Schaffer hadn’t considered a career in sports medicine. However, his training as a certified emergency room doctor, adept at handling fast-paced, dynamic situations, proved invaluable. He finds immense satisfaction in being part of a team that supports elite athletes in achieving their goals. Rodeo athletes have a different approach to pain, often riding with injuries; if they don’t compete they don’t get paid. Dr. Schaffer is quick to credit the pickup men
and bullfighters as the first line of defence for rodeo athletes, noting the incredible skill in keeping riders out of dangers way. His involvement in rodeo has also opened doors for his son Calder, who has enjoyed behindthe-scenes experiences and participated in steer riding camps.
Dr. Schaffer’s commitment to sports medicine also extends to his local practice here in Invermere, where he supports the Columbia Valley Rockies hockey team. Young hockey players who often move to the area require both routine visits and sport related assistance.
Dr. Schaffer’s journey highlights the unique and fulfilling opportunities that await medical professionals in the Columbia Valley. For those considering a move, the region offers a supportive community, a variety of opportunities, and the chance to make a meaningful impact. To learn more about practicing medicine in the Columbia Valley visit www.invermeredoctors.ca.
Thursday, August 15
• 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 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, August 16
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: Mt Nelson Athletic Park.
• 6:00pm-8:00pm: Music on Main. Radium Hot Springs Main Street. 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 ‘The Corazones.
6:00pm-11:00pm: Flats Fest 2024. Canal Flats. The 2024 line-up features top headliners like David Lee Murphy, Darryl Worley, Aaron Goodvin, Love & Theft, Craig Moritz, Garrett Gregory, Julian Austin, Duane Steele, Shred Kelly, and Tryg Strand on the main Columbia Stage. Our Kootenay Stage will showcase local talents including Alderbash, Rockinomix, The Honeymans, Stompyard, Kootenay River Revival, Campfire Banned, The O'Sullivans, Xander Daily, and Casey Rainbow. Prepare for a non-stop weekend of music across two stages.
• 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 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 17
• 9:30am-11:30am: Natmit’ Nana Nature Walk. By Little Badgers Early Learning. Caregivers and children 0-5 are invited to join Teacher Emma from Little Badger Early Learning programs on a nature walk in the Columbia Valley! Bring a snack and water to stop for a picnic! For more information email little. badger.windermere@gmail.com or message on facebook! This week meet at: Sinclair Creek, Radium
10:00am-2:00pm: Artist Michaela Hoppe. Effusion Art Gallery. This is your opportunity meet Michaela and ask her about her creative process. We will be featuring her gorgeous collection of oil and mixed media narrative paintings August 17-23.
• 10:30am-1:30pm: Bear Day! Pothole Park presented by Wildsight. An event to celebrate and learn about all things BEAR! Featuring:
• Hands-on bear spray demos with WildSafeBC and tips on bear safety (demo sessions each hour).
• 11:30 am: Conservation Officer Service showing how they manage bearpeople conflict (hint: prevention is #1) and how they trap a bear if needed.
• 12:30 pm: We’re also very lucky to have researcher Bryon Benn share his stories and insights from many years of studying bears (note this was originally planned as a walk but will now be presented at Pothole Park).
• Groundswell will share about their Apple Rescue program to prevent bear attractants in our backyards
• Games and children’s activities on a bear theme, including a scavenger hunt, ‘guess which bear’, and the chance to make your own ‘bear scat’ – complete with berries and leaves!
Note: the timings are approximate and may change. All presenters will also be available for questions and a chat during the whole event.
9:00am-12:00pm: Pickleball Mt Nelson Athletic Park. Drop-in. 10:30am-11:00am: Saturday Family Storytime. Invermere Public Library. Join us every Saturday morning for stories, songs and a craft at the Invermere Public Library. Geared towards preschool age, but all welcome!
11:00am-12:30pm: LEGO/Duplo Club Invermere Public Library. We'll have Lego, Duplo, big blocks & more out to play with on Saturday mornings! All ages welcome.
• 2:00pm-4:00pm: Board Game Afternoons. Invermere Public Library. Drop in to the Mezzanine at the library and play one of our many board games or bring your own! You can also work on our community puzzle or start a puzzle of your own! All welcome!
• 3:00pm-4:30pm: Buddy Reading. Invermere Public Library. Practice reading aloud one-on-one with a staff member to build skill, confidence and a love of reading! Mondays, Thursdays and Saturdays in July and August! 30 minute sessions at 3:00, 3:30 or 4:00 pm.
By Appointment Only!! Contact Invermere Public Library to sign up.
• 6:30pm: Meat Draw and 50/50 in the Legion! Members and guests welcome!
Sunday, August 18
• 10:00am-2:00pm: Fairmont Farmers and Artists Market. Outside Mountainside Market. Enjoy a variety of vendors as well as live music at the Fairmont Market!
• 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, August 19
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: Hook
• 9:00am-12:00pm: Pickleball. Mt Nelson Athletic Park. Drop-in.
• 9:00am: Tennis for Everyone. Rotary Park Tennis Courts. CV Mixed Doubles – any age and skill level welcome.
• 10:00am-11:00am: Senior's Yoga Columbia Valley Centre, Invermere. $2 drop in, open to all seniors.
• 3:00pm-4:30pm: Buddy Reading. Invermere Public Library. Practice reading aloud one-on-one with a staff member to build skill, confidence and a love of reading! Mondays, Thursdays and Saturdays in July and August! 30 minute sessions at 3:00, 3:30 or 4:00 pm.
By Appointment Only!! Contact Invermere Library to sign up.
• 6:30pm: Poker (Chip up for Charity). The Station Pub $20 buy-in. Every Monday.
• 6:30pm: Duplicate Bridge. Invermere Seniors Hall. Visitors Welcome $2
Tuesday, August 20
9:00am-12:00pm: Pickleball Mt Nelson Athletic Park. Drop-in. 10:30am-11:30am: Senior’s Fitness Columbia Valley Centre, $2 drop-in. 11:00am-3:30pm: World of Curiosities; Invermere BC Summer Reading Club. Join the Invermere Public Library to explore the World of Curiosities with the Summer Reading Club. 11:00-12:30: ages 5*-8; 2:00-3:30: ages 9-12. Registration required for weekly activities. Contact the Invermere library to sign up or for more information: publiclibrary@invermere.net *Kids who are 5 years-old must be finished kindergarten to attend.
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 21
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: Ghostly Hounds
• 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 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-7:00pm: Write On! Invermere Library (or Zoom). Join our monthly writers group to share your projects and get feedback from other writers. Contact the Invermere Library to get on the Write On! email chain. This month we are focusing on project sharing.
• 6:00pm-9:00pm: Wednesday Dinners & Meat Draw & 50/50 Invermere Legion. All welcome.
Few local STR owners apply for licences
By Steve Hubrecht steve@columbiavalleypioneer.com
After years of planning and discussion, the District of Invermere finally adopted short-term rental (STR) regulations earlier this year.
Local residents began pressing Invermere council and staff at least seven years ago to do something about the ever expanding number of STRs here.
The clamour grew louder as the Village of Radium Hot Springs initiated its efforts to deal with STRs in 2019 and then became the first Columbia Valley municipality to adopt STR regulations in the summer of 2021 (in the form of an STR bylaw). The Regional District of East Kootenay (RDEK) followed suit not long after, adopting its STR regulations in summer 2022. Instead of a business licensing bylaw, the RDEK opted to use temporary use permits (TUPs) to control STRs.
Invermere continued on it own path, eventually deciding to use both a business licensing bylaw and TUPs to deal with STRs. These regulations came into effect on May 1 this year.
At the time, members of the public expressed doubt that district staff would be able to handle the potential avalanche of STR licence applications pouring in; and expressed doubt that Invermere’s lone bylaw officer would be able to handle all of the complaints about STRs operating with the proper licences or about STR operators breaking noise and parking rules.
With the regulations now in place
for three months, have any of these predictions come true?
Not at all, according to Invermere Mayor Al Miller.
Part of the reason is that Invermere planner Catherine Charchun, who Miller said has “taken on the STR portfolio” has been on leave with a serious injury and only just recently returned.
The other reason is that there has not been a cascade of STR business licence applications, nor a flurry of STR complaints.
“There have been a few applications come in, but we haven’t been able to do much with them. But we will now that (Charchun) is back,” said Miller.
Exactly how many complaints have there been?
“Just a little. I couldn’t give you a number, but it is small. We have had some, about noise, but nothing serious yet,” said Miller.
Currently any complaints that come in are handled by bylaw officer Mark Topliff. If the trickle does eventually become a torrent, what will the district do?
“We’ll have to figure out how to handle it, if there does start to be many,”
said Miller.
That could possibly include hiring other people to help Topliff, he outlined, although he cautioned that “it’s a conversation we (Invermere council) have yet to have.”
Other municipalities in the East Kootenay have hired extra bylaw officers specifically to deal with STRs (in one case going from one bylaw officer to three).
A McGill report estimated the number of STRs in Invermere at 180. If only a few of them have applied for STR licences, how will the district deal with STR operators that continue to rent out their properties without licences?
That too is something that council has yet to figure out, said Miller.
In terms of a timeline for figuring out these details, getting on top of STR applications, and determining if extra bylaw officers are needed, Miller said “I like to think it will be in the near future, but I hesitate to put a timeline on it just yet,” noting the district has a number of other pressing priorities that it must also balance, including finding a new chief administrative officer.
Library keeps residents cool during hot spells
By Steve Hubrecht steve@columbiavalleypioneer.com
The Columbia Valley has seen stretches of searing heat interspersed with stretches of relatively cooler temperatures and even a bit of rain here and there this summer.
Temperatures in excess of 35 degrees Celsius or higher were once infrequent in the valley. It happened for a few days each summer, maybe a week or two at most.
Over the past few summers, however, such temperatures have become more common to the point that many valley residents call it ‘the new normal.’
Hotter summers are obviously bad news for wildfires (which have also become more common), but they also pose problems for locals simply for the sheer heat they bring.
The relatively mild climate of the Columbia Valley (at least up until about five years ago) means that most homes here still do not have air conditioners.
When the mercury soars residents have a few options: sit indoors and swelter; head into the backyard and suffer; hike into the alpine for a high elevation reprieve; or spend all day at the beach, dipping in and out of the lake.
But if you’re looking for a way to keep cool that doesn’t involve treading up steep trails or getting wet, you’re in
luck — the Invermere Public Library has been functioning as a municipal cooling centre for several summers. Summers in the valley have become noticeably hotter (and noticeably smokier), noted library director Blair McFarlane.
A free place to cool down, and to read, access wifi, use the computers, or take part in other activities sounds good to a growing number of residents and visitors, too.
“We do get quite a few people coming in when the air conditioning is going. We definitely notice more foot traffic when it’s really hot,” McFarlane told the Pioneer
“There’s something for everyone to enjoy. You can read a book, of course, but we have colouring for kids, board games, and a lot more . . . no matter the temperature or the season, the library is one of the only places in town where people can come and stay as long as they like without the expectation of spending money.”
McFarlane estimates the library gets at least 100 people a day coming through its doors during the hottest summer days.
Invermere is not alone — other municipalities across British Columbia and the entire country are gaining attention as places to shelter when the summer gets scorching.
Invermere Mayor Al Miller says there hasn’t been a flurry of STR activity. FILE PHOTO
Invermere firefighter receives medal
By Steve Hubrecht steve@columbiavalleypioneer.com
Invermere resident Janice Dallaire recently won the BC Medal of Good Citizenship.
Dallaire was one of just 18 people across British Columbia to receive the medal this year. They are awarded annually by the provincial government to citizens who make significant contributions to their community and who embody a spirit of generosity and service.
Dallaire was cited for her pioneering efforts in fire rescue and for her volunteer work in the Columbia Valley.
“I was shocked,” Dallaire told the Pioneer, speaking about her reaction to learning she’d earned the medal.
She was modest about her work with the fire crew and her volunteering, saying that in each case “I’m just one piece of a larger team. I wish the whole team could get the award.”
Still, her achievements speak for themselves.
Dallaire is the first female lieutenant on the Invermere Fire Rescue crew, helping lead the fire department’s fundraising efforts for a new sprinkler protection unit, helping organize the department’s annual Firefighters Ball (which raises money for emergency equipment and training), and helping chair the Invermere Fire Rescue Association for six years.
Firefighting is a “big commitment, but it’s worth it,” said Dallaire. “Being on the fire crew is like having a second family.”
Dallaire has been deployed far outside Invermere several times to help fight major wildfires in places
such as Logan Lake, Kelowna, and, this summer, to the Dogtooth fire still burning near Parson.
“You do those things because you like to go and help other communities. If you go and help others, then when it’s our turn, when the Columbia Valley needs help, others come to help us. We saw that last summer (with the Horsethief Creek fire),” she said.
Dallaire has participated in three firefighter stair climb events, in Calgary and Seattle, which raised funds for charitable causes. When the COVID-19 pandemic first struck, and masks were in short supply, Dallaire made sure every Invermere firefighter, as well as those on neighbouring fire crews, had masks by putting her seamstress talent to use and sewing dozens of masks herself.
Outside of firefighting, she volunteers with the Invermere Christmas Bureau as its toy drive coordinator, making sure local children in need get gifts during the holidays. She’s also helped out with Rocky River Grill’s Feed the Town event, which offers a free Thanksgiving feast and doubles as a fundraiser for the Columbia Valley Food Bank.
“Those are a way of giving back. They are similar to programs I’ve had access to in my own childhood,” said Dallaire.
In and amongst all that, Dallaire also finds time to volunteer as a soccer coach for the Columbia Valley Youth Soccer house league (the Pioneer can attest firsthand that Dallaire’s sharp passing skills came in very useful in the year-end kids vs parents game).
But Dallaire’s favourite volunteer endeavour is being a mentor and instructor with Camp Ignite; a summer camp for female teens aged 15 to 18 who are interested in firefighting.
Bird and Ma featured artists
Submitted by Artym Gallery
Here we are mid-way through the month of August and the shows keep coming at The Artym Gallery. Artists Cameron Bird and Min Ma will be featured from August 16 to 23. The opening reception on the 16th runs from 5 to 7 p.m. with Bird in attendance. He will also be doing a painting technique demonstration the following day (Saturday) from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Bird, who is a past resident of Invermere, is very familiar with the East Kootenays and has done many works specifically of this area. There will be more than two dozen paintings for the show, mostly western Canadian landscapes, but his contemporary and very popular animal series featuring moose, wolf, horse, and bear are also included. Bird works mostly with oil paint and often is out on location painting sketches and making notes to take back to his studio where he begins turning that material into a ‘full size’ gallery
piece. Bird mentored with K.C. Smith (1924-2000), and studied at Emily Carr Institute.
Ma has once again painted a stunning and diverse show. You would be hard pressed to find another artist whose paintings range from farmyard chickens to native dancers, from the Golden wetlands to Venice at night. Ma’s formal and intense training combined with his ability allows his focus to be on the routine moments of life we all take for granted, and see them with an artist’s eye. He creates with such detail . . . you can almost hear the skates on the ice in the pond hockey painting. Although he will not be present at the show, these wonderful works speak for themselves, and the Artym staff are always happy to assist with any questions.
Everyone is welcome to the opening and then again for the art demo. You can view all the paintings online at www.artymgallery.com. The exhibition will continue until August 23.
“It’s super cool. The girls get to try everything: live fires, aerials, even auto extrication,” Dallaire told the Pioneer. “I love being able to teach them. I didn’t have a strong female mentor when I first became a firefighter. I want to be that for these girls, and hopefully spark interest in them to pursue it (firefighting) further.”
She said being the first female lieutenant with Invermere Fire Rescue is awesome, but it’s even better knowing she won’t be the last.
Cameron Bird & Min Ma
Friday, August 16, 5-7pm Saturday, August 17, 10-2pm Exhibition continues until August 23
www.artymgallery.com 250-342-7566 info@artymgallery.com
10am-5:30pm Sunday 11am-3pm
Invermere firefighter Janice Dallaire was recently awarded the BC Medal of Good Citizenship.
PHOTO SUBMITTED
Cameron Bird (left) and Min Ma are the next featured artists at The Artym Gallery in Invermere.
PHOTOS SUBMITTED
Hang gliders, paragliders drop in at park
The 48th annual Lakeside Event saw many hang gliders and paragliders take off from Mt. Swansea and land in James Chabot Provincial Park on August 10. Participants in the fly-in also took part in a target landing contest on the beach.
PUBLIC NOTICE: FOREST OPERATIONS MAP REVIEW
In accordance with the Forest and Range Practices Act, Canadian Forest Products Ltd. (Canfor) invites the public to review its Forest Operations Map (FOM ID: 1703) in the Rocky Mountain and Selkirk Natural Resource Districts. The FOM describes areas proposed for Cutting Permit and Road Permit development within the next three years starting on August 6th, 2024, and ending on August 6th, 2027. We welcome your comments and feedback during the review period starting August 6th, 2024. Please submit your comments by September 6th, 2024. The map is accessible for review and comment submission online at: https://fom.nrs.gov.bc.ca/public/projects
Alternatively, in-person review and comments can be completed by appointment only at the following location during office hours (Monday to Friday 8:00am - 4:00pm):
1000 Industrial Road 1, Cranbrook, BC, V1C4J7
Comments may also be submitted by mail to the above address or by phone at 604-773-3490 or to ashleigh.harvison@canfor.com
PHOTOS SYD DANIS
Ridge Road in Radium offering homes
Submitted
TRC Projects is currently working on a project in Radium Hot Springs, on the north side, which features 11 homes set in a bareland strata.
Ridge Road is the fifth project in Radium that Kris Newman and TRC Projects have collaborated on since they formed a building relationship in 2016. It is also the 50th home they will have built together, with projects in both Radium and Invermere since 2017.
This unique building relationship is different because TRC Projects and Newman only take on one project at a time, allowing for greater control over the quality of the building process.
Ridge Road in Radium Hot Springs is a collection of 11 homes; each home is crafted with precision and care by the esteemed Kris Newman Building Construction, the most experienced and local valley builder.
Ridge Road offers a living experience tailored to your desires with three distinct architectural designs; it features four homes, each with a double car garage and a choice between a 3-bedroom layout with a flex
room or a 3-bedroom layout with an office, catering to your living and work-from-home needs.
Building B presents four homes with a single car garage and a fully finished basement. These 4-bedroom homes are designed with family living in mind, featuring three bedrooms upstairs and one downstairs. These four homes (with one sold already), will be ready for late October possessions.
Building C offers three bungalow-style homes with full basement development, great for buyers downsizing. Two of these beautiful properties have a double car garage, while the third one provides a single car garage, ensuring plenty of space for vehicles and storage. The bungalow homes will be ready for December 2024 move in.
As a bare land strata plan, homeowners have extensive control over their property, including the interiors and the beautifully landscaped, fenced backyards.
The modest strata fee of $40 a month covers common pathway insurance, a reserve fund for common fencing, and underground services, ensuring peace of
mind and lower operating costs. Each home reflects our commitment to quality and sustainability through features such as Step 3 Energy modelling, Lux windows, James Hardie cement siding, nine-foot main floor ceilings, quartz countertops, and Samsung stainless steel kitchen appliances. All appliances and interiors are by Warwick Interiors.
These homes are nestled in a private cul-de-sac on the ridge and offer a living space and a lifestyle choice, promising outstanding value and a serene retreat in the heart of Radium Hot Springs.
The sales have begun, and we're excited to announce that four of the 11 homes have already been sold. There is only one home left for immediate possession in Building A, a 3-bedroom plus office with over 1,940 square feet, with a double car attached garage. Act fast on this last home ready for immediate possession.
The pricing for the homes range from $479,900 to $599,900, including GST. If you're interested in checking out the project, contact Kevin at 403-816-6007 or visit the website at www.trcprojects.ca.
Ridge Road is the fifth project in Radium that Kris Newman and
PIONEER CLASSIFIEDS
Al-Anon. Are you concerned about or affected by someone else’s drinking? For more information or to speak with someone from our fellowship, please call 250-878-2448 or 250-342-8392
Alcoholics Anonymous. If alcohol is causing problems or conflict in your life, AA can help. All meetings are at 7 pm. Columbia United AA, Invermere: Saturday, Sunday, Tuesday and Wednesday at the BC Service Building, South End-624 4th St. Invermere. Please call 250-3422424 for more information or to speak with someone from our fellowship.
Narcotics Anonymous. Open meeting.
Mondays 7 pm at the BC Service Building, South End. 624-4th St. Invermere
Arnie Wassing July 10, 1964 ~ February 10, 2024
Arnie is mourned by his 4 children, 3 grandchildren, 5 sisters and 2 brothers. Arnie’s children will be hosting a Celebration of Life September 10, 2024 at 10:00 A.M. at Radium Community Hall. Anyone wishing to speak or send messages are welcome by messaging Joshua Wassing on Facebook by September 1, 2024.
Cheers to Lyla and Tim Bossenberry for the great job on the flower beds at the legion. Your hard work does not go unnoticed. You two exemplify the volunteer spirit.
WOW! Cheers to whomever filled in the HOLE on the road to Eagle Ranch and No Frills. Shocked that it finally is safe. YAAAAAY.
Cheers to the person or persons that made the toy box on the beach. What a great idea. The kids play and put back all the toys. The sign is so well done. Cheers Invermere.
Cheers to Rick James, the good Samaritan who hauled good patio chairs from the Windermere Dump to Groundswell for use in the garden and didn’t stop with that good deed. He found another 4 on a later trip and delivered them. 8 lovely chairs Groundswell Community Greenhouse and Gardens really needed. Cheers to the donors who put them in the shed for him to find and kept them out of the land fill.
Cheers to Dr. Nikirk for taking a personal interest in her patients and providing good care.
Cheers to Theo at Quality Bakery. It is so nice to see you back at work again.
Cheers to “Happy Mom” who brings a smile to my face every time I see one of your beer cans while sorting!
Cheers to Wen at the Bank of Montreal, you were truly wonderful in helping me recover lost access to my account. You demonstrated patience and kindness, as you were also guiding a new employee - superior multitasking for sure. BMO - try to keep this one!
Cheers to my lovely friend Ricky Meyer for bringing me fresh homemade red current jelly from the tree in her yard. It is soo yummy! I am grateful.
Cheers to Deanna Krebs at Invermere post office for the good advice and recommending a specialist who might be able to help me. I appreciate it.
PERSONALS
About 3 or 4 months ago, we met at Sobeys and you were going to do a pork roast for me. However, my computer was down and when I got to your invite, I archived it, but unfortunately your info never became accessible. Been going back to Sobeys hoping to reconnect.
holeinoneal@hotmail.com
Last four acreages in Elkhorn Country Estates. 2.5 to 2.89 acre parcels. Individual wells, no building time commitment. Starting at $329,000 + GST For more information, contact Elkhorn Ranches: 250-342-1267 www.elkhornranches.com
FOR SALE
rockymountainswimlessons.ca
CONDO FOR RENT
Condo for rent in Radium 2 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, fully furnished, 2 underground parking stalls, laundry room. $1600 per month. Available Sept 1st . Call 403-999-2783
HOUSES FOR RENT
Fully Furnished home for rent. 3 bedroom, 2 bath, double car garage on a quarter acre backing onto Riverside Golf Course. Includes lawn care and Snow removal. 1 year terms. Owner reserves the right to renegotiate 1 year terms with tenant 30 days before the expiration of each 1 year term.. $3500 per month plus Utilities. Email: still.darren@gmail.com
COMMERCIAL SPACE
Commercial property for lease. Downtown Windermere. Call 250-342-3819
GARAGE SALES
Saturday August 17 and 24 1610 10 Ave 10a - 5p
Cancelled if raining.
VEHICLES FOR SALE
1987 Porshe 944 Turbo Coupe. Good condition. $10,000.00 Phone 250-342-2263
12 ft. Pelican kayak $225.00 with paddle. Old Pepsi and Coca Cola bottles, bike trainer $50.00 Phone 250-688-1544
8’ x 6’ cedar shed with 2x4 construction. Over 30 years old. You move. $200 obo. Located in Radium. 403-561-4544
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
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
Renovations, Masonry & Handyman Services, Blinds, House checks, eavestrough/ yard cleaning/dump runs. 250-688-2897
SERVICES
Coming to Invermere on August 27, 2024 Contact: huntershoofworks@gmail.com or 250-463-2016 to book in your horse(s)
SWIM LESSONS at Fairmont Hot Springs with Rocky Mountain Swim lessons. Book online at
LESSONS & TRAINING
Runners love Loop the Lake
The 27th annual Loop the Lake on August 10 attracted more than 500 runners who had a blast on the course. At right, Ian Lawson pumps his fists during his run. At bottom left, Brent Keller, Shane Cranston, Mark Cranston, and Jeff Erikson run in unison.
PHOTOS HUNTER SCRIMSHAW
FAITH
Even Jesus might have sworn
By Brent Woodard Windermere Valley Shared Ministry
Years ago, I read a story about a guest preacher who gave a memorable sermon. He got up and began his message by saying he had three points to make. Everyone in church saw that as standard.
The preacher said his first point was that a third of the world’s population was going to bed hungry that night. Again, this was not a big deal for people in church to hear. Then the minister said, “my second point is….” That began to get people’s attention because usually it took a preacher longer to get to their second point. “My second point is,” the preacher continued, “most of you people don’t give a damn.” That got people’s attention. Then the minister said, “My third point is….” ‘What,’ the people thought, ‘the third point already? What’s going on here?’ “My third point,” the minister said, “is the real tragedy of Christianity today is that most of you care more that I said ‘damn,’ than that I said ‘a third of the world’s population is going to bed hungry tonight.’” And then the preacher sat down. That was the end of the sermon. Not bad. It’s one of the few sermons I remember.
social, environmental, or economic justice. Or, it would be wonderful if their first thought was ‘here is someone who is a trained, safe person to talk with.’ But no, it seems I’m primarily seen as the guy who cares about swearing. I smile to think that the life and teachings of Jesus has come down to this.
When Donald Trump gave his acceptance speech at the RNC in July, he concluded his talk by saying that he had the endorsement of Franklin Graham, a prominent figure in American conservative Christianity, and mentioned that Graham had suggested he tone down his swearing. Ugh. I wish it was different. I wish Trump needed to say that Graham criticized him about his plan to “drill, baby, drill.” I wish Trump said that Graham doesn’t want him to deport millions of people and characterize them as vermin. I wish Trump said that Graham told him he was a privileged, wealthy man who had the ability, and mindset, for covering up his sexual exploits while he made it criminal for others to have choice and resources in desperate situations. I wish Trump said that Graham isn’t happy with him supporting a gun culture while subverting affordable health care.
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
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
The most common reaction I get when people learn that I am a minister is to apologize for swearing. It seems, in their minds, that’s what I care most about. I guess I’m sort of the swearing police. I very much wish it was different. I wish when people learned that I am a minister, their first thought was that I must care about
Jesus was very critical of the false religious leaders of his time. It is recorded that he said: “Woe to you, religious leaders, hypocrites! For you tithe mint, dill, and cumin, and have neglected the weightier matters of the law: justice and mercy and faith. It is these you ought to have practiced without neglecting the others. You blind guides! You strain out a gnat but swallow a camel!”
Because followers of Jesus are thought to primarily care about swearing, I wonder if even Jesus might swear.
Meet assistant director Emilie
This week’s column was written by Donna Tunney of Friends of the Radium Library and temporary library director Danielle Conolly. Call 250-347-2434 for more information.
This month, meet our assistant library director and newlywed Emilie Fitzgerald.
Emilie inherited her love of books and reading from her mother, who worked at the Ottawa Public Library for more than 40 years. Emilie was employed there herself when she was in Grade 10 and has worked in libraries ever since, earning a Library and Information Technology diploma along the way. She is now in charge of programming for the Radium Public Library, and is most passionate about children’s programs. She runs Storytime and the popular Summer Reading Club, a free literacy program that features reading and crafts for ages five to 12. Emilie is especially proud of her Little Lambs program, designed for caregivers and newborns to two year olds. The group sings songs and reads short books, conveying the tales through fun visuals, like felt boards, to
create the characters and scenery. Emilie loves “seeing how happy and excited the kids are about books and reading.”
Check the Radium Public Library website for program details, or pop in and sign out a title. And if you need a paperback for the road, our next Pop-Up Book Sale is Friday, August 16 at the Radium Brewery during “Market on Main.”
In August, thoughts turn to classrooms and summer days coming to a close. Our World of Curiosities Summer Reading Club wraps up soon, with the last Edgewater session on Thursday, August 15, and the last Radium session on Friday, Aug. 16. Storytimes continue in Radium (Wednesdays at 11:30 a.m.), but the last Edgewater Summer Storytime will be Thursday, Aug. 22 starting at 10:30 a.m.
Our annual Teddy Bear Picnic happens Wednesday, August 28 from 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. at the Radium Library; it will be outdoors, weather-permitting. This free event is geared toward preschool-aged children with a snack, stories, and a craft.
Speaking of crafts, please join us on Saturday, Aug. 31 from 11 a.m. to 12 p.m. for a special back-to-school craft at the library.
A new Community Book Club has launched. Please see our newsletter and Facebook page for more details on how to sign up and get September’s book. The inaugural meeting to discuss September’s book –and choose October’s book – will be September 21 at the Radium Library from 2 to 3:15 p.m.
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
