VALLEY NEWS Water treatment concerns top of mind
By Steve Hubrecht steve@columbiavalleypioneer.com
The Canal Flats water treatment saga continues.
The Water Protection and Advisory Committee held another public information meeting recently, covering much of the same ground as the initial public meeting.
This second meeting was held on Monday, March 17 at the Canal Flats Civic Centre, and like the first such meeting held in February, it drew a large crowd.
The committee has now spent several months gathering information about looming major upgrades to the village’s water system, which quite likely includes a new treatment plant. Canal Flats residents have expressed concern about these changes for months. Those in attendance at the March 17 meeting gave voice to those worries.
Water committee chair Gayle Lake explained, as she had before, that the committee does not get to decide what happens to the Canal Flats water system. The committee was created to write a report for Canal Flats council on the situation. That report should be complete by June, and then Canal Flats council will decide what to do.
“I don’t want chlorine in my system. If I wanted chlorine in my system, I’d move to Cranbrook or Invermere.”
Canal Flats
Lake said that since the first water meeting in February, the committee has become aware that the community of Greenwood, in the Boundary Country, has a similar population as Canal Flats and it too has been mandated to build a water treatment plant.
“They (Greenwood) did push and did get money from the government,” said Lake, adding the water committee plans to talk with Greenwood’s chief administrative officer in the near future to find out more.
Many residents asked questions of the committee, and many others simply wanted to underscore their dislike of the whole situation.
“What you’re saying is we don’t get a choice whether we want chlorination or not. That doesn’t seem fair or right,” said one audience member. She explained she has lived in Canal Flats for almost 63 years, and she’d had “not one issue with the water . . . we’re being forced to do that (treatment). I think it’s a shame. We have the best water around.”
Another resident added: “Something’s screwed up with this whole system . . . I just can’t believe all the years
that the mill was here. We dumped thousands of gallons of fuel in the mill yard. They used to put PCBs on the road and we checked our water on a monthly basis. There was never anything wrong with it. Now that the mill isn’t here, I don’t see what the problem is.”
Water committee member Araleigh Alexander replied that test results show the water in Canal Flats is pretty good “but we’re saying there is potential for risk in the area.”
The resident answered back: “I just don’t understand this ‘potential’ stuff. I don’t want chlorine in my system. If I wanted chlorine in my system, I’d move to Cranbrook or Invermere.”
Still another audience member asked what Interior Health expects Canal Flats to do and how quickly it expects the village to move. She wondered if it was possible to “drag it (the upgrades) out for 25 years.”
“We haven’t really been given a timeline,” replied Lake. She noted the committee is waiting for a report from engineering consultants Urban Systems Ltd. that will outline which parts of the village’s water and sewer systems need the most pressing attention, and how badly they need it.
The Urban Systems report should be given to the water committee in April. Lake did, however, express exasperation with how long Urban Systems is taking with its report.
“We’re (Canal Flats) that little fish in their big pond, and we’ve been pushing and pushing and pushing (for the report),” said Lake. “That has been extremely frustrating for us as a committee. That’s a big part of our project.”
Lake acknowledged the dissatisfaction in the crowd, saying she personally agrees with many of the points raised by the audience.
“You’re all telling us that you don’t want it. That is one of the first things we’re going to mention to council. Can we stop it? I don’t know. Maybe council will push it,” said Lake.
Several residents in the crowd were curious about the provincial funding for Greenwood’s new water treatment plant. No one at the meeting had definitive information, but several people cited a CBC report which outlined that even with the provincial government funding, Greenwood taxpayers still need to spend $1.5 million for the plant (out of a $5 million total cost).
Canal Flats corporate officer Sylvie Hoobanoff was attending the meeting as a resident (not as a village representative) but was still able to explain that such partial grant funding arrangements are typical.
“If you have a $5 million grant, the village would probably still be on the hook for 20 per cent (of the total cost),” said Hoobanoff, adding that this is a
problem since the village does not have enough money to cover that 20 per cent. Further, the village has already nearly maxed out its municipal borrowing capacity, having taken out a big loan more than a decade ago to pay for sewer lagoon and reservoir upgrades then. This means, she pointed out, that even if Canal Flats residents and council suddenly decided they really wanted to start building the water treatment plant tomorrow “we have zero way of paying for it . . . so nothing is going to happen right away, at all.”
Former councillor Marie Delorme said she’s asked village representatives about the possibility of a water corporation being formed in Canal Flats. She’s seen the idea mentioned in village documents, made some inquiries, but said she hasn’t yet gotten a clear answer. Delorme explained that from what she understands, “it’s a way to raise funds
by getting shareholders in our water, and the village would only be one shareholder out of however many . . . if the village of Canal Flats and all the taxpayers pay to upgrade the system, then they shifted into a corporation to run it, what’s the benefit?”
The water committee does not know very much about that idea, explained Lake, telling Delorme “we (the committee) were not privy to that. We were just told there was a possibility (of a corporation). We were told it was a utilities corporation. We weren’t given any specifics.”
A resident asked about the possibility of having to pay for metered water in the future.
“It’s very common outside of Canada, but we (the water committee) haven’t heard anything about that (in Canal Flats). We didn’t really talk about that,” replied Alexander.
resident
RCMP REPORT
Fraudsters reported to police
Submitted by Sgt. Jeff Witzke
Columbia
Valley RCMP
Spring Gala Soirée
Saturday, April 26, 2025 @ 5:30pm
Tickets $75pp (Or purchase a table of 8)
At the Radium Course 8100 Golf Course Road, Radium
Buffet dinner, live auction, and treasure chest, dessert auction, live music by Paul Carriere. Wine and Beer $7
Tickets available on hospicesocietycv.com or at the Hospice Office (778) 526-5143
On March 27 the Columbia Valley RCMP received a call regarding possible forged prescriptions sent to a local pharmacy. The pharmacy suspected these prescriptions were suspicious, and in fact, they were.
Police arrested the suspect for possession of a scheduled substance and uttering forged documents. The investigation is still ongoing but it’s believed the suspect(s) are linked to other fraudulent offences in Alberta.
A shout out to the pharmacy and its employees for discovering the fraudulent documents and reporting these fraudsters to the police.
On March 27 police received a 911 (dropped) call where all that was heard was a voice saying “don’t touch me.” Members made attempts to call back the number but none of the calls were answered. Subscriber information was obtained and the phone was pinged multiple times in order to locate the person(s). Eventually the RCMP in Cochrane, Alberta were able to locate the person. They were travelling and did not realize they had called 911.
RDEK approves financial plan
Columbia Valley Pioneer staff
The Regional District of East Kootenay (RDEK) has adopted its 2025-2029 financial plan that impacts residents in different ways.
“Every year we make a conscious effort to bring forward a budget that supports service levels and capital projects while minimizing the impact on taxpayers,” said RDEK vice-chair Susan Clovechok. “We recognize the continued importance of finding this balance this year on the heels of inflation and rising costs.”
Clovechok noted that everyone from the staff level to the board level has worked diligently to find that balance.
The 2025 operating budget totals $46.4 million, which results in an increase of $24 on an average $596,000 residential assessment across the region.
“It is important to remember that there is a difference between the numbers in the budget and the effect those numbers will have on individual tax rates,” Clovechok said
The RDEK offers more than 100 different services, and residents will be affected depending on the municipality or electoral area they live in.
The financial plan includes $12 million in capital expenditures in 2025 for projects such as the final completion of the Cold Spring Creek Debris Flow Mitigation Project, Fernie pathway, Jaffray trail, Edgewa-
ter connectivity project, fire engine replacements in Panorama, Hosmer and Baynes Lake, Wycliffe Park Campground, Hosmer Fire Hall, and Elko Fire Hall expansion.
Unlike a municipality that has one boundary and one set of taxpayers, different areas of the RDEK require different services and these are paid for only by the taxpayers of each specific service area, explained Clovechok.
“You need to understand what services you receive and what that translates to in order to have the full picture of how the budget will impact you,” she added.
For example, residents in the City of Cranbrook will see an $18 increase in their requisition for the RDEK based on the average $596,000 residential assessment. Residents of Area C will see a $47 increase on a $596,000 residential assessment because they receive different services.
To help summarize some of the impacts, the RDEK has prepared a “snapshot” which includes the financial plan’s impacts on the electoral areas and municipalities along with capital budget highlights. The snapshot of the adopted plan can be viewed at https:// engage.rdek.bc.ca/budget. In addition to the information available online at engage.rdek.bc.ca/budget, copies of the plan are available on request through the RDEK’s Columbia Valley and Cranbrook offices.
Dix vows to defend Canada in river treaty
By Lyonel Doherty editor@columbiavalleypioneer.com
While the US government has paused negotiations on the Columbia River Treaty, the powers that be on the Canadian side will “defend our interests,” says the minister responsible.
Minister of Energy and Climate Solutions Adrian Dix hosted a virtual information session on March 25 to provide an update on the status of the treaty’s modernization and to answer questions.
Dix was joined by Brittny Anderson, MLA for Kootenay Central, and Steve Morissette, MLA for Kootenay Monashee. In addition, more than 600 members of the public tuned in.
Dix said a lot has changed, citing a new U.S. government and its attack on Canada’s sovereignty.
“It has made people think a lot about the treaty and its implications on our relationships.”
The minister noted that some people have suggested that Canada cancel the treaty, but he said this agreement in principle (reached in July 2024) is a significant part of modern history that impacts the lives of many people in the Columbia Basin.
“In short, Canadian action to terminate the treaty would have little effect on the current dispute and would obviously involve losses on all sides. But let’s be clear, we’re going to defend our interests . . .”
Dix added that a modernized treaty would provide greater or balanced benefits to both countries compared to the existing treaty. For example, he said B.C. would gain significant flexibility to address its environmental, First Nations, and socio-economic objectives (without needing agreement from the US). In addition, the province would also have certainty for its share of compensation through treaty benefits.
Dix said the Americans would benefit from preplanned flood risk management, keeping with one of the treaty’s most important functions - to reduce the risk of damaging floods in the US.
The minister said it’s not unusual for a new government to press pause on current negotiations, but he was candid in saying that US President Donald Trump’s actions of late (tariffs) represent “vicious, anti-Canadian attacks.”
MLA Brittny Anderson said she has never seen this much interest in the treaty, and noted that Canada’s entitlement will continue until 2044, securing predictable benefits to B.C. She noted the entitlement includes B.C.’s share of the increased power generating
potential of the US system, which is sent to the province in the form of electricity, rights of transmission, and flood risk implementation.
MLA Steve Morissette said he has lived in the Basin all of his life and has heard people’s concerns. He agreed that the treaty provides benefits to people and the environment on both sides of the border.
During question period, Dix said the pause in negotiations has no bearing on BC Hydro’s current operations in the reservoirs.
Another question focused on fish runs related to the treaty.
Kathy Eichenberger, the treaty’s executive director, said salmon is a core component in the treaty’s modernization. She noted that when they started the consultation process, “everyone wanted to see the return of the salmon,” and that confidence is growing.
Negotiator Jay Johnson from Okanagan Nation Alliance confirmed there is mutual interest around salmon. “We hope to get back to the table; we want to maintain fish flows to ensure the smolts are carried downstream.”
Johnson said there is a deepened collaboration with the US in regards to salmon studies and operations. “We’re really looking forward to the outcomes to ensure the salmon get over the blockages to their natural spawning grounds.”
The negotiator said that up to 89 per cent of sockeye salmon spawn in Canada.
“We’re building on success, doing our best to ensure that water systems can accommodate the salmon.”
Another question was asked about First Nations’ involvement and decision-making in the treaty.
Nathan Mathew, a Secwépemc Nation member, has been actively involved in treaty negotiations that have focused on water management and hydro-electric power along the river.
He said the negotiations have been positive for First Nations in the Basin.
“We have a seat at the table, we go to all the sessions, we’re involved in planning and strategy, we have rights within the basin . . . and reconciliation is being dealt with in a good way.”
Dix answered a question about the behaviour of the US administration towards Canada and what is being done about it. He stated that officials are preparing for all scenarios and potential actions.
“We love the United States, we have always loved the United States, but we do not understand the treat-
ment we are receiving (after being allies for so many years).”
When asked why it has taken so long to get where we are in the treaty, Dix said these international issues are very challenging, particularly in the US considering its political landscape.
“There is a lot at stake . . . for people in the Columbia Basin this is visceral.”
One individual who tuned into the meeting wanted to know what impact the federal election will have on the treaty.
Dix only said it is “critical” that everyone get out to vote, noting this is “one of the most important federal elections in history.”
Members of the public are encouraged to continue sharing comments and questions about the treaty and the agreement in principle by emailing columbiarivertreaty@gov.bc.ca
UPCOMING COURSES
INVERMERE CAMPUS
• Red Cross Stay Safe (children ages 9-13yrs) April 5 | $59
• Practical French for Beginners April 9 – May 14 | $89 + GST
• Toast to the Irish Cooking Class April 10 | $89 + GST
• Stained Glass 101 April 12 | $99 + GST
• Red Cross Emergency First Aid + CPR April 14 | $149
• Cultivating Inclusive Culture – Lecture April 23 AM | $75
• Foster Inclusive Culture – Lecture April 23 PM | $75
• Scents of Self – Essential Oil Perfume Making class April 25 | $49 + GST
The Columbia River Treaty is on pause, but Minister Adrian Dix says Canada’s interests will be defended. Shown here are birdwatchers on the river. FILE PHOTO
Beautiful beast
Historical Lens PERSPECTIVE
Ask anyone who has visited the Columbia Valley, Invermere in particular, and they will tell you it’s one of the most beautiful places in B.C. to roam. (Just listen to the B-52’s song ‘Roam’ and you might swear the band wrote it with our lovely valley in mind.)
But apparently Invermere is also “eccentric,” according to a travel article in World Atlas. If you look up the definition, the words “slightly strange” and “unusual” pop up (in a good way in our case).
However, every community has its negatives, or skeletons in the closet, as one local couple discovered.
Amazingly, to their discontent, the husband and wife team picked up nearly 1,000 discarded cans and bottles in the community, and the bulk of them were beer cans. Does this suggest there is a lot of drinking and driving in Invermere? Hope not.
The couple started along the south end of Westside Road and the Legacy Trail.
“We very much enjoy running that trail and (recently) we counted 85 cans/bottles in a three-kilometre stretch from the Hoodoo parking lot going toward Invermere.”
After lunch that day they spent two hours combing both sides of the road and collected 600-plus beer cans and bottles. The next couple of days they did more scouring and collected approximately 300 more. Doing the math, they found nearly 1,000 bottles and cans between the south end of Westside Road to the Hawke Road parking lot. What a disgrace!
“Of huge concern is the fact that the vast majority of the containers we picked up were beer and cooler cans; very few soft drink containers,” they said. “As your newspaper wants to hear from locals, I thought you might find this interesting, if not rather sad, that drinking, driving and littering is quite prevalent, especially on this particular road in our community.”
The litter-fighting duo turned all of these cans into funds for the Columbia Valley Airport Society. But they would have preferred to see these containers dropped off at one of the many bins in the community dedicated for recyclables.
There is simply no excuse to use this beautiful community as a dumping ground for cans and bottles —1,000 over a few kilometres? Really? It’s rather shameful. These litterbugs are not only disrespecting their own community but tarnishing Invermere’s reputation as a lovely district.
What is truly disturbing is the inference that some residents are drinking and driving, risking the safety of others as well as their own. Do people need a reminder of what happened last summer in Wilmer where three young men died following a single-vehicle accident that allegedly involved an impaired driver? These life-long tragedies are so preventable.
Litter is a blight on this community and doesn’t need to happen. But kudos to residents who do their part in keeping Invermere clean and to those who donate their recyclables for a worthy cause.
Lyonel Doherty, editor
Be courteous of pedestrians
With the coming of spring, we should expect to see more people walking on local roads (with no sidewalks) as well as a considerable increase in automobile traffic.
There are some common sense things that everybody should be aware of to make the interactions less stressful and less dangerous for everybody.
For pedestrians, please keep in mind the old rule about walk on the left, facing traffic. This allows you to see the oncoming traffic which is most likely to run you over, and if it’s a B.C. car you may get the licence plate number before you are flung into the ditch. For Alberta cars, you’re just out of luck! I thought everybody learned this rule in elementary school, but maybe it’s time for a refresher course.
For drivers in control of a 2,000 to 4,000 pound behemoth, you have the ultimate responsibility to ensure
that nobody gets hurt out there. And you might also consider that not scaring or worrying or upsetting anybody is also your responsibility.
To be a considerate driver, please consider giving pedestrians as much space as possible when hurtling by; this could mean crossing the sacred centre line if there’s nobody coming the other way. (Pedestrians won’t report this minor infraction, I’m sure.)
If you can’t move over to the middle or the other side of the road, and you are going to pass close to the pedestrians, please slow down to something like 30 km/h to avoid raising blood pressure and road dust. This will cost you a second but you’ll likely get a cheery wave for your thoughtfulness.
Let’s all be courteous and safe out there.
Terry
Curley, Invermere
LETTERS
Resident objects to STR comments by MLA
This letter is addressed to Columbia River-Revelstoke MLA Scott McInnis
I am writing to object to comments in your article published in the Pioneer (March 27, page 9), and to your private members speech in the Legislature.
Many of these STR’s that you are championing have become ‘party houses’ who bring their own groceries and liquor and add nothing but headaches to the surrounding neighbours.
It seems that far too many STR owners are not members of our community; they live elsewhere. In Invermere’s case a number of the owners of these STRs have bought up houses that were being rented to families living and working in our community, only to turn them into an STR.
All you have to do is read the bios of some of these applicants to the District of Inverme (DOI) to find out that they live elsewhere.
They are the ones who have become
‘cash grabs’ and are replacing both rental and permanent housing for people who want to live and work in our community.
We are starting to be known as the B.C. capital of the short-term rental.
Do you honestly think this helps our community to attract and retain anyone that wishes to live and work here?
It is worth checking with the DOI regarding the large number of ‘letters of concern’ that accompany many temporary use permit applications.
We also do not understand why you seem to have chosen to ignore the other side of this issue, and hope that you might do some research into the possible harm that can be done by approving so many STRs, especially in R-1 residential neighbourhoods.
I note with interest that at the end of your opinion piece you ask for STR owners to reach out to you.
Many of these owners do not even live in our communities.
What about the concerns of your constituents who want to see the number of STRs limited and will be voting in the next election?
Joan Rouse, Invermere
The following is a response from the MLA: Thanks for reaching out with your concerns regarding STRs.
With every file we have open for constituents, there are two sides to the story. Every community in Columbia River-Revelstoke is unique in its housing situation and licensing and operation regulations.
To be clear, just as I have advocated for residents such as yourself on many provincial issues, I am speaking out on behalf of a group of folks with a legitimate concern around the new Short Term Rental Registration requirement that has recently been put in place.
The zoning, location, licensing, and regulation of STRs is under the jurisdic-
tion of each municipality or district. Direct communication with the District of Invermere, as you have shared regarding the TUP application for a property in your cul-de-sac, is the correct course of action. While I can share your concerns, I do not have a direct influence over the district’s decisions.
My ultimate goal is to find a balance where folks such as yourselves are not disturbed by ‘party houses’ and still support our vital tourism industry.
PUBLIC NOTICE
SHORT TERM RENTAL BUSINESS BYLAW NO. 522, 2025
Notice is hereby given that the Council of the Village of Radium Hot Springs is considering adoption of Short Term Rental Business Amendment Bylaw No. 522, 2025.
In general terms, the proposed Short Term Rental Business Amendment Bylaw No. 522, 2025 will amend Short Term Rental Business Bylaw No. 503, 2024 by amending Schedule A, paragraph 6, to allow for individual and corporate ownership of more than one short term rental at properties on Kootenay Park Drive, Jasper Court, Revelstoke Drive, Yoho Drive, Glacier Drive, Banff Court and Waterton Court in Radium Hot Springs.
All persons who consider themselves affected by the adoption of the proposed Short Term Rental Business Amendment Bylaw No. 522, 2025 may make representations to Council by:
1. Providing a written submission by mail, fax or email to be received by 2:00pm on Thursday, April 10, 2025 (contact information below); or by
2. Presenting written and/or verbal submissions at the Council meeting:
MONDAY, APRIL 14, 2025 AT 4:00 PM
COUNCIL CHAMBERS, VILLAGE OFFICE
4836 RADIUM BLVD.
RADIUM HOT SPRINGS, BC
There will be an opportunity to attend the Council meeting virtually, with details provided on the Council meeting agenda, which will be posted in the Document Centre on the Village website on Thursday, April 10, 2025. Submissions cannot be accepted after the Council meeting.
The draft Bylaw is available for inspection on our website: www.radiumhotsprings.ca
Village of Radium Hot Springs P.O. Box 340, 4836 Radium Blvd, Radium Hot Springs, B.C., ph: 250-347-6455 fax: 250-347-9068 email: cao@radiumhotsprings.ca
An Invermere resident has taken exception to an MLA’s comments on short-term rentals.
PHOTO ALEKSANDR ZUBKOV/GETTY
Canal Flats council removes letter from agenda
By Steve Hubrecht steve@columbiavalleypioneer.com
A former Canal Flats councillor sought to raise concerns about village issues during last week’s council meeting, but her letter was expunged from the agenda.
Marie Delorme served on Canal Flats council for more than a decade from 2011 to 2022. Although she’s no longer a councillor, Delorme has continued to follow municipal issues and has spoken as a resident at several council meetings or public meetings in the past few years. She also wrote an opinion piece covering several hot topics in the
village newsletter during last summer’s contentious council by-election.
More recently, Delorme sent a letter to the current Canal Flats council outlining her worries about several issues. But precisely which issues Delorme wanted to address, and precisely what her concerns are isn’t clear, since her letter has been removed from the public record.
The letter was initially included along with other publicly available documents on the agenda for the March 24 meeting, but the first order of business was to remove the letter from the agenda. It was expunged because it touched on sensitive points that could get Canal Flats council into legal trouble if coun-
cillors publicly discussed them. Delorme was at the meeting, along with a few other concerned residents. Although Delorme was understanding about the potential for legal issues, she still wanted answers to her questions.
“You did email me and tell me it would be on the agenda, and you did email me and say that the answers (to the questions in the letter) were forthcoming in a week. On the agenda it says it would be a written response,” said Delorme.
Canal Flats chief administrative officer Sylvie Hoobanoff and mayor Mark Doherty explained that the village still plans to send a written response to Delorme, and they confirmed that if they
are not allowed to answer specific questions due to legal reasons, that will be indicated in the response letter.
“It’s really disturbing when you go to Facebook and you see information there (about village issues),” said Canal Flats resident Pat Schwartz.
“We can’t comment on (Delorme’s) letter itself,” replied Doherty, but he added Schwartz could send in her own letter with questions, and the village will reply.
“If I send in my list of questions, how long would it take to get answers to those?” asked Schwartz.
“We don’t know without knowing the questions,” replied Hoobanoff.
Services Virtual participation opportunities are also available. Indicate your interest by 2 p.m. (Pacific) on April 11, 2025 For full details on how to participate, visit our website. Victoria Surrey Vancouver Courtenay Terrace Fort St. John Quesnel Vernon Cranbrook Nelson Penticton
Former councillor Marie Delorme submitted concerns to Canal Flats council but her letter was expunged. FILE PHOTO
New book highlights Indigenous rock art
By Steve Hubrecht steve@columbiavalleypioneer.com
A Calgary archaeologist has collaborated with elders from the local Shuswap Band (Secwe’pemc) as well as the Piikani First Nation near Pincher Creek to write a new book shedding light on ancient rock art in the Columbia Valley and nearby parts of B.C. and Alberta.
Author Brad Himour describes the book — Forgotten Dreams: A New Look at Ancient Rock Art Sites — as a combination of Indigenous knowledge and western science, and told the Pioneer the book is meant to help educate Indigenous and non-Indigenous readers alike, as well as to increase cultural awareness, promote reconciliation, and hopefully increase cultural preservation.
The book stems from Himour’s work as an archaeologist over the past 15 years, which involved making images using DStretch technology of remote rock art sites — also called pictographs — in and around the Kootenay region. Indigenous elders from the Shuswap Band and the Piikani First Nation then interpreted the meaning of the pictographs.
“Many of these amazing cultural sites are in very remote locations. Often, they are nearly invisible to the naked
eye. By visiting each site and digitally enhancing the photographs, it was possible to give the elders much clearer images to interpret,” said Himour.
Shuswap Band elders Xavier and Marge Eugene were a huge help, explained Himour. “They really contributed a lot to the book . . . they really wanted this knowledge to be passed down to the next generation.”
The rock art sites in Forgotten Dreams recount tales of epic journeys, great battles and spiritual activities, outlined Himour.
As Xavier and Marge told Himour, “Indigenous storytelling, or stseptékwle, includes myths and legends of fairy tales, hunting tales, warrior tales, information on our gathering places and often our ‘spirit stories’ gained from a vision quest or ceremony. There is always a story behind a pictograph.”
Forgotten Dreams includes 20 different pictograph sites, including in Kootenay National Park near the ‘Iron Gates’ of Sinclair Canyon (close to Radium), at Whiteswan Lake, at Armstrong Bay on Columbia Lake, over in the West Kootenay at Kootenay Lake near Creston, and in the Crowsnest Pass in Alberta.
“Many sites are still visited today. You still find offerings there. They are still used and they are very much part of a living cultural heritage,” Himour told the Pioneer. “The entire site area is part of the story that’s being told, and
has been told for thousands of years . . . it connects people and landscape intimately. It’s the story of a place as well as of the rock art itself.”
Himour emphasized that the Indigenous knowledge in Forgotten Dreams belongs to the elders that shared it. He said mutual respect was key to successful collaboration, and outlined that he was instructed to leave the sites as he found them, place a small offering of tobacco as a ‘thank you’ for the opportunity to photograph them, and to understand there are many different cultural protocols related to pictographs, even within the same community. He added it’s important to recog-
The Columbia Valley contains multiple Indigenous rock art sites featured in the new book ‘Forgotten Dreams: A New Look at Ancient Rock Art Sites.’
nize that other Indigenous cultures, including Stoney Nakoda, Tsuut'ina, Ktunaxa and Metis, have their own cultural stories and traditions related to many of the same rock art sites.
The book came out earlier this year, with an initial print run of 500 copies. Himour is hoping to get Forgotten Dreams into local bookstores, interpretation centres and the museum in the Columbia Valley.
To find out more visit forgottendreamspictographs.com
Himour extended a heartfelt thank you to the elders, both named and not named, who contributed to the book.
PHOTO BRAD HIMOUR
7:00-8:30
Event Birding by Golf Cart with Randy Hopkins and
7:00-11:00 “Premier Skookum” Birding Excursion with Lyle Grisedale and Brian Wesley Skookumchuck area
Wings over the Rockies Nature
7:30-11:30
7:30-11:30 Walk
Hands-on Photography Excursion with Keltie and Stan Masters Fairmont Hot Springs area
8:00-11:00
8:00-11:00
8:30-11:30 Drive/Walk Dippers and Ducks with Doug Yukes Invermere area
9:00-11:30 Indoor Workshop Painting Bird Habitats: A Watercolor Workshop with Lori Baugh Littlejohns Invermere
9:30-3:00 One Event, Two Walks Walk #1 - 9:30-12:00 Lunch Break Walk #2 - 1:00-3:00 Exploring the Source of the Columbia River Trail with the Columbia Lake Stewardship Society and Lake Windermere Ambassadors Canal Flats
10:00-2:00 Hike & Optional Paddle Gamboling About in the Heart of the Wetlands with Ron and Tracy Grams Spillimacheen area
12:00-1:30
2:00-4:00
ᕈanisqa¢, to walk softly with Mara Nelson Fairmont Hot Springs area
2:00-4:00 Walk Grizzly Bear Habitat & Human Connection with Bryon Benn Fairmont Hot Springs area
2:00-4:30 Indoor Workshop Painting Bird Habitats: A Watercolor Workshop with Lori Baugh Littlejohns Invermere
2:00-5:00 Walk Forest Bathing Columbia Walk with Pat Bavin Radium Hot Springs area
7:15-9:00
9:30-12:00 Paddle Lake Paddle & Coffee with Columbia River Paddle Invermere area
10:00-11:00 Tour & Sampling The Path to the Perfect Cup: Kicking Horse Coffee Facility Invermere
10:00-2:00 Hike
Wetlands and Waterfalls with Ron and Tracy Grams Spillimacheen area
2:00-4:00 Walk What’s bugging the trees? A stroll through the forest with Jakub Olesinski Radium Hot Springs area
2:00-4:00 Walk From Grand Landscapes to Tiny Nature Treasures with Priya Biswas and Archie Miller Fairmont Hot Springs area
2:00-4:00 Walk ᕈanisqa¢, to walk softly with Mara Nelson Fairmont Hot Springs area
8:30-10:30
9:00-10:30
2:00-4:30 Indoor Workshop
Garden Art: Create a Clay Gnome with Robyn Oliver and Shona Robichaud Pottery Playground, Invermere
2:00-5:00 Walk I Look Up, She
2:30-4:30 Paddle
Lake Lillian with Columbia River Paddle Invermere area
4:30-6:00 Social Gathering Complimentary Chirp & Chat Host Location: Conrad Kain’s Kitchen & Grill Radium Hot Springs
Nature Festival May 5 - 11, 2025 Our Place in Nature
7:00-11:00
8:30-11:00
9:00-11:00
7:00-11:00 Walk
Explore the Riches of Ritchie’s Point with Gareth Thomson Wilmer area
7:30-11:30 Drive/Walk
Kootenay National Park “Saturday Birding” with Brian Wesley Radium Hot Springs area
8:30-11:00 Walk Radium Mill Pond Birding Excursion with Jody Allair Radium Hot Springs area
Paddle Invermere area
9:00-11:30 Outdoor Workshop Garden Art - Make Your Own Metal Garden Sculpture with Cajsa Fredin Invermere
10:00-11:30
10:30-11:30 Complimentary Event Nature/Bird-Themed Storytime with Japhy Hunt at the Invermere Public Library Invermere
1:30-4:00 Walk
Connecting Lakes to Mountain Streams with Ben Mitchell-Banks Invermere area
2:00-3:00 Complimentary Event Microscope Exploration for Kids in Gr. 1-7 - After school at the Invermere Public Library Invermere
2:00-4:00 Walk Grizzly Bear Habitat & Human Connections with Bryon Benn Fairmont Hot Springs area
2:00-4:00 Walk
Recovering Grasslands: Restoring Diversity at Redstreak with Elena Olsen Radium Hot Springs area
2:00-4:00 Walk
You Belong Among the Wildflowers with Kathleen Mpulubusi Radium Hot Springs area
2:00-4:00
2:00-4:30
7:30-11:30
8:00-11:30
9:30-3:00 Paddle & Lunch Guided Columbia River trip from Invermere to Radium with Columbia River Paddle Invermere area
9:00-11:30 Outdoor Workshop Garden Art - Make Your Own Metal Garden Sculpture with Cajsa Fredin Invermere
10:30-11:30 Complimentary Event Nature/Bird-Themed Storytime with Dallas Hussar at the Invermere Public Library Invermere
12:00-1:00 Indoor Workshop Create Your Own Clay Owls with Black Star Studios Invermere
12:30-3:30 Walk Forest Bathing Columbia Walk with Pat Bavin Radium Hot Springs area
1:30-4:00 Walk Wandering above the Columbia Wetlands with Ian Hatter and Jenny Feick Fairmont Hot Springs area
1:30-2:30 Indoor Workshop Create a Clay Mountains & Lakeside Landscape with Black Star Studios Invermere
1:30-4:00 Walk Connecting Lakes to Mountain Streams with Ben Mitchell-Banks Invermere area
2:00-3:00 Complimentary Event Family Event – Explore: Nature’s Hidden Treasures with Denise Hoffgaard Invermere
2:30-4:00 Activity Drumming - Rhythm by Nature with Patrick Carrick Invermere
3:00-4:00 Indoor Workshop Indoor – Create Clay Ladybugs on a Leaf with Black Star Studios Invermere
1:30-3:30
OUT OF OFFICE…
Why Join the Chamber?
I am pleased to be President of the CVCC Board of Directors, entering the second year of my term, continuing our work at answering the question: Why should I join the Chamber?
The CVCC AGM was a fun and sweet success, satisfying but a bit nutty- oh wait that was the ice-cream sundae bar! For those of you who unfortunately missed the event last week, I am excited to share a bit of a recap of the evening. I was able to share and remind those in attendance about the membership perks which can also be found on the chamber website: cvchamber.ca. From access to group benefits through the Chamber Plan, to advertising opportunities, discounts, a seat at the table and access to our CVCC exclusive networking and learning events. Why CVCC? For the perks! Executive Director Pete Bourke reviewed the many projects, events, operations and initiatives that the CVCC participated in and accomplished this past year which includes acting as the Columbia Valley Community Economic Development Office. Some of the other worthy endeavors we supported or spearheaded include: Angel Flight East Kootenay, Columbia Valley Housing Society, Columbia Valley Physician Recruitment, Imagine Kootenay as well as facilitating the individual business community meetings of the Invermere Business Committee (IBC) and the Fairmont Business Committee (FBC) – and watch for RBC starting soon. Why CVCC? Because we support endeavors that support the people and business
of the Columbia Valley.
We celebrated our events this past year as well. Our Chamber Connections have been a popular and growing networking monthly event (2nd Tuesday of the month throughout the Valley). Our Business Best Ball tournament was again a hole in one. Join us for the next golf tournament at the Radium Springs Course on June 17th! And the Business Excellence awards were, well… Excellent! Picnic Palooza in Fairmont was new to our schedule, while we continued to be #valleystrong with The Great Gift Card Sale and Winter Wonderland Market. This is only a selection of the full calendar in support of Business. Why CVCC? Because it provides learning and networking opportunities!
I was extremely fortunate to be able to attend the BC Chamber of Commerce (BCCC) AGM last spring, held in Kelowna. The conference was filled with almost 200 Chamber of Commerce Presidents, board members and Executive Directors from all over the province. Seeing the work that goes on behind the scenes by CVCC and the Chambers across the province was inspiring and shocking. At the BCCC we debated, discussed, and voted on 42 different polices that originated as important issues to the members of the authoring Chambers. Often here, in relatively small-town Columbia Valley, we can feel that the rest of the province doesn’t listen to us, but when it came to voting, I was surprised to feel the weight of my vote. The strength of our membership determines
our voting. And CVCC was assigned 7 votes based on our size, out of a maximum of 10 votes, which means that our voice was heard and not overwhelmed by the power of larger centres. I am very much looking forward to this year, which is being held in June in Nanaimo. Why CVCC? Because they are advocating for business on a provincial and federal scale. The accomplishments of our CVCC are because of the team that is at the CVCC. I am grateful for Pete and his crew and all they do! I don’t think other Chambers are as lucky as we are to have such hard working, passionate people behind and in front of the scenes. I also want to thank all the business owners who choose to dedicate their limited time to volunteer along side me on the board of directors. Although we will miss those who have had to step away this year, we appreciate the time you were able to gift us. I am very excited to move forward with our new board of directors, who I all know believe, as I do, that supporting Valley Business is of value. Keep in mind that there are volunteer opportunities available with the CVCC outside of board membership as well. As president of the Board of Directors at the CVCC, I invite you to approach any of us to share how we can specifically support you and your business, and help you too continue to answer: Why should I join the CVCC? We are the voice of business in the Columbia Valley – add your voice to ours!
-Rhiannon Tutty
Thursday, April 3
10:00am-12:00am: Cover Letter Writing - Employment Workshop Work BC Offices. Put "Your Best Foot Forward" and join us for our weekly employment workshops. There are regular and on-demand workshops happening every day. Call 250-341-6889 or visit the local Invermere office to learn more and sign-up.
• 10:30am-11:30am: Senior’s Fitness Columbia Valley Centre, $2 dropin.
• 11:30am-12:30pm: Little Lambs Baby Group. Radium Public Library. Stories, rhymes, and songs for babies and their caregivers! Every Thursday!
• 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.
• 3:30pm-8:00pm: Summit Youth Night at the Edge. Edgewater Community Hall Basement. For all youth Grade 6 to 12. Every Thursday join us for snacks, games, food, pooltable, crafts at The Edge.
• 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, April 4
• 10:00am-12:00am: Interview Skills - Employment Workshop. Work BC Offices. Put "Your Best Foot Forward" and join us for our weekly employment workshops There are regular and on-demand workshops happening every day. Call 250-341-6889 or visit the local Invermere office to learn more and sign-up.
• 10:30am-11:00pm: Family Storytime. Invermere Public Library. Join us at the library for stories, songs and a craft! Geared towards preschool age, but all welcome to attend!
• 2:00pm-3:00pm: Friday Fundays! Invermere Public Library. Drop in programming! Drop off allowed for ages 7+. Younger children are more than welcome to join with an adult! Crafternoon: a fun new craft each session!
• 6:30pm - close: Meat Draw and 50/50 in the Legion! Members and guests welcome!
• Saturday, April 5
• 2:00pm-5:00pm: The Art of Pottery & Mosaic Show – Artist Reception. Pynelogs Cultural Centre. Join us for the grand opening reception where you can meet the artists. Coffee Counter Open : Coffee, Tea, Beer & Wine for sale. Admission by cash donation at the door. We are delighted to present a captivating exhibition celebrating the artistry of pottery and mosaic. Featuring the works of around twenty talented artists from the Columbia Valley, the exhibition will be on display at
Columbia Valley Art Gallery from April 3 to April 26, 2025. Don't miss this opportunity to immerse yourself in the rich textures, colors, and creativity of these stunning handcrafted pieces!
• 10:30am-11:00pm: Family Storytime. Invermere Public Library. Join us at the library for stories, songs and a craft! Geared towards preschool age, but all welcome to attend!
• 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.
• 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! 30 minute sessions at 3:00, 3:30 or 4:00 pm. By Appointment Only!! Contact Invermere Library to sign up.
6:30pm: Meat Draw and 50/50 in the Legion! Members and guests welcome!
Sunday, April 6
• 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, April 7
• 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! 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 $50 buy-in. Every Monday.
Tuesday, April 8
• 2:00pm-3:00pm: Fraud Awareness Info Session. Invermere Public Library. A representative from Kootenay Savings will be at the Invermere Public Library to chat about fraud and scam awareness. There will be time for questions after the talk. All welcome to attend. No registration required.
• 5:30pm-7:30pm: Chamber Connections at Edible Acres and Winderberry! Monthly Networking Event by the Columbia Valley Chamber of Commerce. Free to attend, drop-in casual event with at least two board members in attendance. Join us at Edible Acres and Winderberry in Windermere. Let’s talk business - see you there!
• 10:00am-11:00am: Online Job Searching - Employment Workshop. Work BC Offices. Put "Your Best Foot Forward" and join us for our weekly employment workshops. There are regular and ondemand workshops happening every day. Call 250-341-6889 or visit the local Invermere office to learn more and sign-up.
• 10:30am-11:30am: Senior’s Fitness. Columbia Valley Centre, $2 drop-in.
• 10:30am-11:30am: Homeschool Meetup. Invermere Public Library. Drop-in, all ages programming with open-ended STEAM play, group activities and art projects. This week: Seed Starters & Garden Markers.
• 11:30am-12:30pm: Little Lambs Baby Group. Radium Public Library. Stories, rhymes, and songs for babies and their caregivers! Every Thursday!
• 1:00pm-3:30pm: Art in the Afternoon. Radium Library. A weekly gathering for artists! A free program for local artists and art enthusiasts; whether you sketch, paint, carve, knit or crochet, bring your supplies and work alongside fellow artists.
6:30pm-8:00pm: Second Winds Community Band Practice Invermere Catholic Church Annex. We are looking for new band members! Play an instrument? For info please email dalvande@shaw. ca
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, April 9
10:00am-11:00am: Senior's Yoga Columbia Valley Centre, $2 dropin.
10:00am-12:00am: Resume Writing - Employment Workshop Work BC Offices. Put "Your Best Foot Forward" and join us for our weekly employment workshops. There are regular and on-demand workshops happening every day. Call 250-341-6889 or visit the local Invermere office to learn more and sign-up. 11:30am-12:00pm: Story Time at the Library. Radium Library. Join us for a story, songs and a craft! Geared towards preschool ages but all are welcome. 3:30pm-4:45pm: After School Club. Invermere Public Library. A window of transition time between school and home or extracurriculars. Come colour, bead, play with LEGO, and catch up with friends! Open to all school-aged kids. Drop-off for Grade 2 and up. Please bring your own snacks! One time registration required. Find the form on the After School Club page on our website or fill it out at the library.
• 6:00pm-9:00pm: Wednesday Dinners & Meat Draw & 50/50 Invermere Legion. All welcome.
Master electrician prides self on experience
Submitted
Hello, I’m Matt Heidmiller, and I’ve called the East Kootenays home for nearly a decade.
For the past three years I’ve lived in the Invermere area with my wonderful fiancée, Janessa Williams. As a master electrician with over 15 years of experience in residential, commercial, and industrial sectors, I’ve had the opportunity to work on a wide range of projects.
While there are many skilled contractors in the region, I’ve also encountered unprofessional, careless, and non-code-compliant workmanship in homes I’ve serviced. That’s why I’m excited to introduce my company, Radon Ridge Electric. Combining my extensive electrical expertise with my certification as the only CNRPP certified radon mitigation specialist in the Columbia Valley, I am committed to delivering high-quality, professional, and code-compliant workmanship you can trust—whether in your home
or business.
Radon is a silent killer—odourless, colourless, and a major cause of lung cancer. It seeps into homes undetected, building up in basements and crawl spaces. The only way to know if you’re at risk is to test. If levels are high, professional mitigation can make your home safe. Don’t wait—test, mitigate, and breathe easy!
Services offered:
• Electrical installations
• Repairs and upgrades
• Residential and commercial wiring
• EV chargers, generators and panel upgrades
• Radon testing and mitigation
Protect your home from electrical hazards and indoor radon risks with one trusted professional.
Serving Invermere and the Columbia Valley - call/ text: [250-688-9933] or visit: RadonRidgeElectric.ca
Email; Matt@RadonRidgeElectric.ca
Power your home. Protect your health. Choose Radon Ridge Electric.
Take control of your health with Ignite
Submitted
For over a decade, I’ve helped people feel their best as a registered massage therapist, serving the valley for nearly nine years. Now, as a certified integrative nutrition health coach, I’m expanding my mission through my new business, Ignite Preventive Health. I offer science-backed, holistic health coaching to help you break free from stress, exhaustion, and burnout, so you can reclaim your energy and take charge of your well-being.
My passion for preventive health was ignited by my mom’s journey with cancer. Supporting her through this deepened my commitment to helping others take a proactive approach to their health, so they don’t have to wait for a crisis to make a change.
With my expertise in holistic health, I take a whole-person approach, addressing the physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual aspects of wellness. Through personalized, one-on-one coaching, I guide
individuals to achieve their unique health goals and build a lifestyle that supports long-term well-being. Whether you are looking for a holistic path to heal your body, mind and spirit or a complete transformation from chronic stress to long-term resilience, I'm here to help. If you feel drained, overwhelmed, or stuck in autopilot, know that there is a way out, and I'd be honoured to guide you.
Ready to feel refreshed, focused, and in control of your well-being? Book a free preventive health discovery call to explore how I can support you. My services are provided virtually through Google Meet, so you can get expert guidance from the comfort of your own home.
Janessa Williams, RMT, INHC
Introductory offer: mention this ad for $200 off a coaching program. Limited spots available. Learn more/book online: www.ignitepreventivehealth.com/ health-coaching. Email: hello@ignitepreventivehealth.com. Call/text: 250-409-4944
After seeing our shows of many different settings... mountains, skiing, climbing, and nature, it’s time to have a show featuring our beautiful Columbia Valley. Please join us as Hans Fuhrer shares his photos from up and down our valley and back country. Enjoy refreshments and a visit with Hans and Lilo following the show. Edgewater Community Hall, April 11 at 7 pm
Admission by donation. Everyone welcome. Hosted
Janessa (shown here) loves the outdoors, and she and Matt can’t get enough of exploring nature during time away from work. PHOTO SUBMITTED
Public gets more input on Radium OCP
By Steve Hubrecht steve@columbiavalleypioneer.com
The Village of Radium Hot Springs is gearing up this spring for another round of public consultation on its Official Community Plan (OCP) update.
Refreshing Radium’s OCP is one of the biggest projects underway at the village, and has been going on for a year. Last fall consultants Bluerock Planning presented a preliminary draft of what the OCP update may contain.
The draft was sweeping in scope, covering a wide range of issues, and assessing both the opportunities and challenges the village faces, such as short-term rentals (STRs); where and how future growth should happen; and the housing situation. It proposes eight “big moves” for Radium: growing and strengthening the downtown; more actively managing STRs; revitalizing the Highway 93 strip (between Sinclair Canyon and downtown); creating flexible business areas; protecting ecological areas from development; promoting housing infill; creating comprehensive planning areas; and improving community connection through parks and trails.
“It’s a big document because it is a big change,” Radium mayor Mike Gray told the Pioneer when the draft came out. “This is the first time Radium has
dove this deeply into the OCP since the village’s foundation (in 1990).”
The village undertook public consultation on the draft OCP this past winter, but wants even more feedback. To that end, it will launch a survey and will hold two open houses, one in-person and one virtually through Zoom in mid-April.
“The idea is to get together with the public, and to get feedback from them,” Gray said. “We’re at a point now where we’ve gathered a lot of feedback already, but we want to make sure we do as much as we can.”
How much more consultation will there be until the draft OCP is finalized and actually becomes the new OCP?
“That really depends on what kind of feedback we get,” explained Gray. “If it’s mostly small issues and concerns that are arising, we’ll do some edits and move forward. But if the feedback we hear is telling us there is, for instance, five major issues that we’ve got totally wrong (in the draft OCP) and some new issues we completely missed, well, then we’ve got a lot more work to do.”
Gray said the feedback Radium councillors have heard so far indicates people “feel that we are generally on the right track, and that it’s mostly finer details that need to be sorted out.”
The survey will launch on Monday, April 14, and will be available both on-
The District of Invermere is holding two public information meetings on April 14, 2025 to seek input on a DRAFT Subdivision and Development Servicing Bylaw. The purpose of the Bylaw is to ensure infrastructure and services meet safety and community standards for new development and subdivisions The meetings will include a presentation of the DRAFT Subdivision and Development Servicing Bylaw and a question-and-answer period
The public information meetings are scheduled as follows: April 14, 2025 (starting at 3 :00pm and 6:30pm)
To attend one of the meetings, please register on the District of Invermere’s website invermere.net
line and in hard copy. The in-person open house will be Tuesday, April 15 from 5:30 to 8 p.m. at the Radium Hot Springs Centre (presentation at 6 p.m.).
The virtual open house is on Wednesday, April 16 by Zoom at 7 p.m. You need to pre-register to get the link to the virtual open house.
Radium councillors wanted to do both a virtual and in-person open house because “we do have a lot of property owners in Radium who are not full-time residents and can’t always make it to in-person events,” said Gray.
To find out more visit radiumhotsprings.ca/ourpathforward/.
The District of Invermere is holding two public information meetings on April 15, 2025, to seek input on a DRAFT Development Cost Charge Bylaw Update . The purpose of the Bylaw is to help fund growth -related infrastructure expenditures. The meetings will include a presentation of the DRAFT DCC rates, an overview of the infrastructure capital costs and a question-and-answer period.
The public information meetings are scheduled as follows: April 15, 2025 (starting at 3:00pm and 6:30pm)
To attend one of the meetings, please register on the District of Invermere’s website invermere.net District Contact:
The Village of Radium Hot Springs values community input, so it is opening its Official Community Plan update to another round of public consultation. FILE PHOTO
Interior Health recently collaborated with local artist Kelsey Van Raay to complete a new mural in Invermere and District Hospital’s emergency depart ment.
The mural was painted on the ceiling and door of one of the patient care spaces within the emergency department. This room is primarily used for patients experiencing mental health concerns needing a quiet, non-stimulating space to be treated and cared for. The goal of the mural was to create a serene and calming environment for patients to help foster healing.
"My intent with my art has always been to con nect people to our natural world and inspire them to appreciate nature and its healing effects. When I was asked to paint a mural within such a unique space, I jumped at the opportunity to create something that would provide a calming space for patients in need,” said Van Raay.
The project was generously funded and organized by Dr. JoyAnne Krupa, who was the successful recipi ent of the 2024 Early Career Leadership Award for In novation in Opioid Use Disorder Care. The award in cluded a
PIONEER CLASSIFIEDS
ANNOUNCEMENTS
BUYING OR SELLING?
Serving Invermere & Area cell 250-341-1202 gerry@gerrytaft.ca
Al-Anon. Are you concerned about or affected by someone else’s drinking? For more information or to speak with someone from our fellowship, please call 250-878-2448 or 250-342-8392
Alcoholics Anonymous. If alcohol is causing problems or conflict in your life, AA can help. All meetings are at 7 pm. Columbia United AA, Invermere: Saturday, Sunday, Tuesday and Wednesday at the BC Service Building, South End-624 4th St. Invermere. Please call 250-3422424 for more information or to speak with someone from our fellowship.
Cheers to Keija for the fantastic massage. It was exactly what I needed. I appreciate your skill and the care you show to me.
Cheers to the local businesses, community members and family and friends who supported the “Wonderland” Ice show on March 15th! What an entertaining event and opportunity for figure skaters to perform with an audience of approximately 300 spectators.
Cheers to Bowen for the great job doing our weekly deliveries. Great job!
Cheers to my beautiful friend Ricky Meyer. You are so kind and thoughtful. I appreciate the cookies that you dropped off at the office. They were delicious!
Cheers and more cheers to Carolyn and staff at La Galeria. What a beautiful store. The service was great, and the sales are amazing! Worth the short drive to Fairmont.
Cheers to all the caring nurses, supervisors and staff at Home Care that are going out of their way to give this senior such wonderful help in her own home. I appreciate everything you are doing to help me.
Cheers to Mark, the new server at the legion. Saturday night was really busy, yet you kept your cool and continued to give great personalized service. Good job!
Cheers to those that helped at the spaghetti dinner held in Edgewater March 23. To Edgewater legion, Sobeys, No Frills, Radium Mountainside Market and Kootenay Water for your kind donation. A big Cheers to those that came and enjoyed dinner and supported the Edgewater United Guild.
Huge Cheers to Grey, Pete and Floyd for showing up at the Badlands off Westside to clean up the huge mess that was left. Cheers to Andrew for dropping off the bin. Cheers to all for stepping up and helping our community.
Experienced Salon Manager/ Senior Hairstylist wanted for well established beauty salon in Invermere. Full time, weekends required. Please email for details: judylaboucane@hotmail.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
LEGAL / PUBLIC NOTICES
Sentinel Storage
Located at 1508 Hwy 93/95
Windermere, BC V0B 2L2
Hereby gives notice under the Warehouseman’s Liens Act of auction of a white Damon Challenger Continuous Trailer # J064 L. Landry
Auction to be held on www. ibid4storage.com on Thursday April 10, 2025. Terms are debit and credit only. Cash deposit required. See website for terms and conditions.
DUPLEX FOR RENT
Half duplex for rent May 1/June 1.
Spacious Two bedroom and den with deck for 1 yr. lease.
5 min. walk to downtown Invermere.
$ 1950 plus cable/hydro. NS/NP. 403-874-0483
OBITUARY
In Loving Memory John Donovan Aitken
December 8, 1939 – March 22, 2025
John Aitken passed away peacefully at his Columbia Lake, B.C. home, surrounded by his loving family, on March 22, 2025. He was known for his easygoing and gentle manner, his appreciation for life’s simple joys, and his deep love for family.
Born in Edmonton, John moved to Calgary at the age of three. He later returned to Edmonton to complete his degree in Dentistry at the University of Alberta. He began his career in Drumheller, where he met his beloved wife, Shirley. They recently celebrated their 61st wedding anniversary. Shirley’s unwavering support enabled John to pursue the many things that were important to him in life. He maintained his dental practice in Calgary for 40 years.
John dedicated countless hours to both social and professional causes. Throughout his career, he made significant contributions to the dental community, serving in leadership roles, including as president of both the Calgary and Alberta Dental Associations. Beyond his profession, John was an avid reader and a skilled woodworker. He was a formidable curler and golfer from his teens into his eighties, and took up bowling after retirement. He and Shirley never tired of spectator sports and always cheered for the home team. John cherished the Columbia Valley, where he and Shirley have been members of the Columere Park community since the 1970s. In 2004, John retired and they moved to the valley full-time, where he was a good friend and neighbor to many. Driving to Calgary to attend a grandchild’s sports game or performance was never a burden — it was a joy. Their answer to “can we come visit” was always an emphatic yes, and the children and grandchildren treasured the time they spent with their grandparents at the lake. John was predeceased by his parents, Don and Kay Aitken, and his sister, Patricia McLeod. He leaves behind his devoted wife, Shirley, and their children: Kathleen (Paul), Michelle (David), Scott (Judy), and Steven (Dawn). He was a proud and loving grandfather to Mark, Luke, Ellen, Cameron, Brian, Logan, Mitchell, Keaton, Abbey, and Nate, as well as their spouses and partners.
John will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing him. His legacy of kindness, wry humour, and dedication to his family, profession, and community will be fondly remembered.
A celebration of John’s life will be held at Mountainside Golf Course, Fairmont Hot Springs, B.C. on May 31, 2025, at 12 pm. In lieu of flowers, donations in his memory would be gratefully accepted by the Heart and Stroke Foundation or the Columbia Valley Food Bank. Condolences, memories, and photos may be shared and viewed with John’s family at mcphersonfh.com
Little blue - A striking bluebird sits on a post during a spring outing of seed gathering.
PHOTO SYD DANIS
DISTRICT OF INVERMERE
NOTICE OF SHORT-TERM RENTAL TEMPORARY USE PERMIT APPLICATIONS UNDER DISTRICT OF INVERMERE CONSIDERATION
Pursuant to Section 494 of the Local Government Act, public notice is hereby given that the District of Invermere is considering the Short-Term Rental Temporary Use Permits (STU-TUP) listed in the table below. Issuance of the permits will be considered by council or a delegated authority at the Invermere District office at 914 - 8th Avenue in Invermere, BC, at the corresponding date and time as listed below:
Consideration by DELEGATED AUTHORITY - APRIL 15, 2025 at 2:30PM
APPLICATION NO.
STR016.005.25
STR232.830.25
STR230.630.25
STR232.700.25
STR254.031.25
ADDRESS
STR161.365.25
STR264.184.25
STR262.024.25
All persons who believe they are affected by any of the Short-Term Rental Temporary Use Permits are encouraged to submit their concerns in writing to the Invermere office at 914 - 8th Avenue, Invermere, BC, or by email to dpcoordinator@invermere.net prior to April 7, 2025 at 10:00am. All submissions should include your name, address, and contact information. All written submissions are public information pursuant to the Freedom of Information and Protection of Privacy Act. All submissions will form part of the public record. Questions about the disclosure of your personal information may be referred to the Corporate Officer at 250-342-9281. For more information regarding the above applications contact the Invermere Planning Department at 250-342-9281 or by email at dpcoordinator@invermere.net or at the Invermere Office between the hours of 8:30 AM and 4:30 PM, Monday to Friday, excluding statutory holidays. PO Box 339, 914 - 8th Ave, Invermere BC V0A 1K0
info@invermere.net www.invermere.net
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 permits will be considered by the delegated staff person at 10:00 am on April 16, 2025 at the RDEK office at 19 - 24 Ave S in Cranbrook, BC.
All persons who believe they are affected by any of the Short-Term Rental Temporary Use Permits are encouraged to submit their concerns in writing to the RDEK office at 19 - 24 Ave S. Cranbrook, BC or by email to planningdept@rdek.bc.ca prior to 4:30 pm on April 9, 2025. All submissions should include your name and address. Please be advised that any written submissions will become part of public record. The permit is available for viewing by email request, on the RDEK website (www.rdek.bc.ca/meetings_events/publichearings) or at the RDEK Offices between the hours of 8:30 am and 4:30 pm, Monday to Friday, excluding statutory holidays. To search for properties online, visit: www.rdek.bc.ca/departments/mapping.
For more information contact planning department staff at planningdept@rdek.bc.ca or 250-489-2791. 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.
A rocky tour - An inquisitive Max explores his watery surroundings during a grey day journey .
PHOTO SYD DANIS
The Hearing Loss Clinic has become an integral part of my family’s healthcare team. As an athlete and coming into the medical field myself, I can appreciate how each aspect of our health contributes to the bigger picture. Hearing health is an important part of how we interact with the world, which correlates to so many other parts of our humanity. It’s all connected. The Hearing Loss Clinic team really understands this and it shows in their passion for what they do and how they treat their patients, from the moment someone walks in the door to the final testing and fitting.
Dr. Hayley Wickenheiser, 4-time Olympic Gold Medalist Hockey Canada
