The Loop the Lake event attracted 540 registrants on Saturday, Aug. 9. For many, it was an
and have
Free Bike Valet
Hit and run victim speaks out on safety
Columbia Valley Pioneer staff
The victim of a disturbing hit and run in Invermere is worried about community safety and the lack of accountability that some people are demonstrating through their reckless behaviour.
Duane Lowder is still recovering from multiple injuries after he was struck by a dirt bike rider on 1st Street (between 10th and 11th Avenue) on Sunday, Aug. 3.
He was out walking his dog at approximately 10 p.m. when he heard a motor bike in the area. He then observed the vehicle “weaving” towards him at a fair rate of speed; too fast for a residential street.
“I could hear the bike decelerate momentarily, and then almost immediately crack the throttle and continue to accelerate towards me,” Lowder recalled. “In this split second my only thoughts were to get my dog to safety. I shoved him towards the ditch and attempted to follow; clearly I did not make it out. My dog is okay which is the most important thing.”
Lowder told the Pioneer that the motorbike struck him on the left hand side, “and the next thing I knew is that I was lying on the pavement in a lot of pain.”
The rider (in his early 20s) appeared genuinely upset and asked if Lowder was okay and what he could do to help. Lowder said he should be having a conversation with the RCMP.
“When it was suggested that the
police be involved that’s when he began to panic. He mentioned something along the lines of ‘I can’t get caught, I’m already in trouble.’ “He offered to pay me money to not call the police.”
The suspect then struggled to start his bike as Lowder “”peeled” himself off the ground and hobbled over to take a photograph of the young man’s licence plate. But Lowder said the vehicle had no plates, no brake lights or headlight.
The police arrived approximately 20 minutes later.
“I understood they have problems with rogue dirt bikes on public streets, and I have read similar statements in the RCMP reports,” Lowder added.
As for his injuries, the bike’s brake rotor sunk into his shin which required several sutures. He suffered a cut scalp that required three or four sutures, and the inside of his lip had a cut that also required sutures. He suffered a concussion, plus numerous cuts and scrapes all over his body.
“This person needs to be identified and brought to justice. He would have killed my dog had I not taken the actions that I did. He could have killed me. If he gets away with this he will not learn his lesson and maybe next time he will kill somebody,” Lowder told the Pioneer
The RCMP said they believe the motorbike is not ‘street legal’ and have identified a suspect in the ongoing investigation.
The hit and run occurred on 1st Street between 10th and 11th Avenue in Invermere on Sunday, Aug. 3.
PHOTO DUANE LOWDER
Funding shortfall felt by victim services
Columbia Valley Pioneer staff
A funding shortfall for victim services in the Columbia Valley has a local non-profit worried for survivors of crime and domestic violence.
Family Dynamix executive director Ute Juras and victim services coordinator Amy Lange expressed this concern to the Regional District of East Kootenay (RDEK) during a committee meeting on August 7, when they requested $40,000 in annual funding to expand the program.
Family Dynamix has administered the crisis response program since 1980, but the emerging challenge is meeting the growing demand, Juras said, noting they are only funded (by the Ministry of Justice) for 23.5 hours a week, which “doesn’t even scratch the surface” (of what needs to be done).
Juras stated they want to add more hours (11.5) to lessen wait times and strengthen support in the valley. She added that applying for grants in aid is onerous and doesn’t give them any sustainability.
Lange said victim services are vital to the community.
“Every day survivors reach out for help, but far too often they are met with wait lists, closed doors, and burned out staff,” she lamented, adding the program is not a luxury but a lifeline. She noted that victim services help survivors find safety, heal from trauma, and rebuild their lives.
Lange said underfunding leaves survivors vulnerable. In fact, some of the victims have to return to the dangerous situations that initially brought them to the program’s doorstep. She then told board directors that one day any one of them could be a victim in need of support.
Director David Wilks, a retired member of the RCMP, said victim services are invaluable in any community, noting that if victims are turned away they will likely be seeing police again because of the cycle of abuse they endure.
Columbia Valley RCMP Sgt. Jeff Witzke said the signficant growth of the program, coupled with rising mental health calls, has left the current parttime hours insufficient to meet client needs. He noted that a full-time victim servics worker would reduce officer time required for crisis support, family notifications, and trauma follow-up, freeing police resources for patrol and investigations.
“Restoring full-time hours for our victim services worker is not just a request, it is a proven necessity,” Witzke said in his correspondence to the board.
Director Mike Gray, mayor of Radium Hot Springs, said everyone sees the benefit of the program but noted the challenge is where the funding comes from. “The taxpayer on our end definitely gives us pressure to keep those (funds) in line.” Gray added that he would rather see the provincial government cover the program.
Director Roberta Schnider said she would like to see local First Nations involved in this discussion.
Fellow director Susan Clovechok agreed the work that victim services does is very important, not only for the well-being of victims but for the RCMP as well.
Juras reiterated the extra funding would give them flexibility to do more training and spend more time with the victims and their families.
Director Rob Gay asked about the probability of a referendum on the topic, which prompted Juras to say every single person who casts a vote has likely been touched by some form of trauma or crisis.
Clovechok asked if Family Dynamix has the capacity to conduct surveys or engage the public if a referendum was needed to help make a decision on funding. Juras said if that’s what it takes, they would make it work.
Gray said one challenge they have with other organizations requesting funds is every year the scope tends to expand and more money is requested. But Juras said she doesn’t see Family Dynamix “taking a mile” after being given an inch.
Gray, who commended the program, said
he didn’t think it was right for local government to fund it, but conceded that is the reality. He expressed his support for going forward with a referendum to create a service area to fund it. Therefore, he recommended the board go with option 3, which is that Family Dynamix be advised that consideration of advancing an elector assent process would be dependent on them conducting a broad scale survey to gauge community support for program taxation.
Wilks said the province has shrugged its responsibility for years, resulting in municipalities having to step up financially. “If it was me, I would strongly encourage to move option 1 because waiting is not an option.” Option 1 is that annual funding requests from Family Dynamix for victim services costs continue to be submitted to the RDEK’s discretionary grants-inaid program. Option 2 is to deny the funding request.
Clovechok said she couldn’t support option 1 indefinitely because she favours going to a service area via referendum.
In the end, the board carried option 3.
Regional directors listen intently to a funding request by victim services that is run by Family Dynamix. SCREENSHOT
Out of control
An avid thrift store shopper was aghast as he squinted to ensure he wasn’t mistaken. In a glass case sat a small box that contained a matchsticksized video game cartridge. The price . . . $749.95. Surely, you mean $7.49? No, five cents shy of $750. Must be a pricing error, the gentleman thought. How wrong he was.
No, folks, some corporate thrift store prices border on insanity and are totally out of control. Let’s wander down the clothing aisle, shall we? A pair of distressed jeans: $25. Another pair: $50. Atrocious! A merchandising fiasco of the tallest order. A scandal perpetrated by greed. And the kicker? All of these items are donated.
The shopper digressed for a moment. The establishment that yearned for his money gave to some form of charity, purportedly. That lessened the blow somewhat, but he had to wonder how much of it was going to managerial wages.
The man erased the thought from his mind and continued shopping, but in less than 30 seconds was assaulted again by an $18 price tag for a long-sleeve shirt. ‘Ay caramba!’ Vacating the premises post haste was his primary objective before his psychological wallet was infirm.
Disgruntled, the fellow drove to the next thrift store where he knew the prices would be better, but not by a landslide. Short sleeve shirts were $9 and up. Pants were $12 and up, and the ‘boutique’ rack (a term they use to justify the prices) had jackets and jeans tagged from $20 to $70. What, you have to be a lawyer or a dentist to shop here?
But again, one must factor in the causes that these shops raise money for: food banks, shelters, and hospitals. No doubt they deserve every cent, even from the aghast shopper. Yet the point is the ‘thrift’ aspect has sadly disappeared from many of these establishments. What used to cost $2 has leaped in price to a point where many consumers can no longer afford to shop second-hand.
But thank the heavens there are still auxiliary thrift stores that truly understand the challenges that people face in feeding and clothing their families. They’ve hung on to yesteryear’s prices by only charging $2 and $3 for shirts and $5 for jeans, yet they still manage to raise hundreds of thousands of dollars for medical equipment in their communities. Invermere is a prime example.
It’s time these ‘corporate’ thrift stores learn something from these auxiliaries and stop price gouging commoners.
Lyonel Doherty, editor
OPINION
Historical Lens
LWA supports buoy action
The following letter is addressed to the Regional District of East Kootenay (RDEK)
As a community-based water stewardship organization with a long-standing mandate to monitor and protect the health of the Columbia River Headwater Lakes, the Lake Windermere Ambassadors (LWA) would like to express our strong support for greater coordination and enforcement of dock and buoy regulations on Lake Windermere and Columbia Lake in the East Kootenay.
We endorse the call from Wildsight Invermere for timely action on enforcement of surface zoning bylaws and are encouraged to see the Re-
gional District of East Kootenay moving forward with efforts to inventory buoys this summer. We urge other jurisdictions around both lakes to collaborate on similar measures to ensure transparency, better enforcement and environmental protection.
In recent years, LWA has observed increasing community concern about shoreline development, unauthorized docks, and the proliferation of buoys that lack compliance with provincial and federal regulations. Without consistent enforcement, these issues can undermine water quality, aquatic habitat, and the public’s ability to enjoy the lake safely.
Continued on page 15
Cheri Hann
Chris Moseley
Lyonel Doherty
Christina Boucher Office Administrator
Percy and Linnie Lake with their five children inside their Athalmer cottage in 1926. PHOTO WINDERMERE AND DISTRICT HISTORICAL SOCIETY
Local to compete in Transplant Games SPORTS
By Steve Hubrecht steve@columbiavalleypioneer.com
Windermere resident Mark Rievaj is set to take part in the World Transplant Games in Dresden, Germany next week.
In late 2017 Rievaj got a second chance at life after a last-second liver transplant. And he’s made the most of his second chance: the father of four recovered from his transplant with gusto, and is as active and outdoorsy as ever, becoming a regular participant in the local Wasa Triathlon.
He’ll soon push his athletic bar a little higher, heading to the World Transplant Games from August 17 to August 24 to compete in six different events — the 10 kilometre cycling time trial; the 20 kilometre cycling time trial; the 30 kilometre cycling road race; the sprint triathlon; the javelin; and as part of Canada’s three-on-three basketball team.
Rievaj grew up in Ontario but moved to Calgary to pursue an athletic career in speed skating and to go to university. During his time in Calgary he was diagnosed with primary sclerosing cholangitis (PSC), a progressive liver disease that doesn’t have a cure. When diagnosed, Rievaj was told it could become a serious problem a decade or two decades down the road. Not exactly the news anyone wants to hear, but Rievaj was in his early 20s and that future seemed a long way off.
He continued speed skating for several more years, and met his wife Michelle. The couple finished university, welcomed four kids (Anika, Seth, Naomi and Meghan), and in 2014 moved to the Columbia Valley, immersing themselves in the great outdoors and volunteering at many community events.
Then in the fall of 2017, Rievaj’s health declined rapidly. He needed to nap every day, and was forced to pause and rest before almost any sort of activity. “It felt like I was an 80 year old trying to live as a 35 year old,” recalled Rievaj. “I couldn’t even keep up with my kids.” By late November things were even worse, and Rievaj had to be driven to the Invermere hospital. His blood pressure was so low that at first the nurse thought the sphygmomanometer was broken. A pair of
local doctors worked to keep Rievaj alive until he could be airlifted to Calgary. After five days in Calgary, he was sent to the transplant clinic in Edmonton. Rievaj went immediately from not being on any sort of liver transplant list to being the top priority on the national transplant list just because of how sick he was.
Doctors predicted he would live only another two or three days on his failing liver. Things seemed grim. “Luckily a liver showed up at the 11th hour,” explained Rievaj.
Surgery followed. Rievaj’s body accepted the new liver, but there were complications from the surgery (his heart stopped twice, and there was a lot of internal bleeding). He spent six weeks (instead of the normal one week) in the intensive care unit (ICU), and a total of six months in the Edmonton hospital, as well as a few months more there as an outpatient.
It had been a close call, but Rievaj had pulled through.
The path to full recovery was a long one, but Rievaj was determined. He started physio and remembers that he “was just happy to be able to move pain free again.” Rievaj kept improving, and before long he was able to do sports again. He set a goal to keep motivated in his recovery: he wanted to do his first-ever triathlon.
In June 2019 he achieved that goal, competing in the Wasa Triathlon along with his oldest daughter Anika.
Rievaj was amazed at what his body was capable of — he was healthier than he’d been in many years. The Wasa Triathlon is now an annual tradition, and Rievaj has also done several long distance inline skating and roller-skiing races across the continent.
He heard about the World Transplant Games, held every two years, and was intrigued. In 2023 the Games were in Australia (a bit too far away for Rievaj to travel to) but this time around, with the Games in Germany, he decided to go for it.
The World Transplant Games are open to donor recipients, living donors, and donor families. The 2025 Games will feature 1,513 athletes, with an additional 700 coaches, managers and other supporters on hand representing more than 50 countries.
PHOTO SUBMITTED
The Canadian team numbers 86 — 53 athletes (including Rievaj) and 33 supporters. The 53 athletes comprise 39 living donor recipients (including Rievaj), 11 living donors, and three donor family members.
The Games will be a great chance to not only represent Canada, but also just to meet other transplant recipients.
“Outside of the clinic (in Edmonton) I’ve only ever knowingly met a small handful of other transplant recipients,” said Rievaj. “It will be really interesting to meet a lot of other people who have gone through the same thing I have.”
Of Rievaj’s six events, three are cycling races and another one (the sprint triathlon) has a cycling component. Cycling appeals to him because “it’s a good way to stay fit, it’s great cardio and I like it much more than running,” he explained.
In terms of results, Rievaj said he’s simply out to do his best “and hopefully not come last in the javelin. Really, I’m just thankful that I’m in the position I’m in”
He hopes his participation in the Games and this news story in the Pioneer can help increase awareness about becoming an organ donor.
“There’s always an opportunity to keep someone else alive or to vastly improve the quality of their life,” said Rievaj.
He underscored that the medi-
cal science to allow transplants is relatively recent, with human transplants only starting on a large scale in the late 1960s, and the development of drugs that greatly improve the chances of keeping transplant patients alive coming in the 1980s.
“Almost everyone at the Games and almost everyone at the transplant clinic in Edmonton would not have been there, would not have been alive, even just 50 years ago,” he said.
Anika told the Pioneer she couldn’t possibly be any prouder of her dad heading to the World Transplant Games.
“There was a time when we didn’t know how it would turn out, if my dad would make it. It was not an easy time for us as a family,” said Anika. “So it’s amazing to now see my dad represent Canada, and to do so many different events.”
Anika added she’s become particularly fond of racing in the Wasa Triathlon with her dad. This year the race was on Father’s Day, and Anika and Mark ran the last five kilometres hand-in-hand, crossing the finish line together.
Visit register.transplant.bc.ca (in British Columbia) or myhealth. alberta.ca/pages/otdrhome.aspx (in Alberta) to find out more about becoming an organ donor. Check out wtgf.org to find out more about the World Transplant Games.
Windermere resident Mark Rievaj (in back) is heading to the World Transplant Games next week. He is shown here with wife Michelle and children Anika, Seth, Naomi and Megan.
COLUMBIA VALLEY CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
OUT OF OFFICE…
Summit Hub Coworking: Your Productive Spot in Invermere
Visiting Invermere and looking for a quiet place to work that’s not a busy café? Or maybe you’re a local entrepreneur ready for a change of scenery? Summit Hub Coworking offers the perfect blend of comfort, connectivity, and community—without the noise and distractions of your average coffee shop. Located inside the Summit Youth Centre, the Hub has just freshened up two upstairs rooms designed for quieter work sessions or small meetings for up to eight people. Whether you need to jump on a video call, brainstorm with your team, or focus on a deadline, these rooms give you the privacy and calm
you’ve been missing.
On the main floor, you’ll find hot desks for getting down to business, couches for more casual work or relaxed meetings, and high-speed internet to keep you connected. It’s the ideal setup for digital nomads, visiting professionals, and who needs to work out of the house.
Best of all, Summit Hub Coworking is a social enterprise pilot project—profits go straight back into programs and opportunities for local youth. By working here, you’re making a direct, positive impact in the community.
We offer flexible memberships, monthly or drop-in, so you can work how and when you want. Whether you’re here for a week, a season, or the long haul, we’ve got a spot for you.
And here’s a reason to stay connected: we’re launching a meetup schedule for entrepreneurs, freelancers, and remote workers. Think networking, skill-sharing, and idea-swapping, right here at the Hub. Keep an eye out for the announcement!
More details: invermeresummityouthcentre.org/home/summit-hub-coworking
Thursday, August 14
• 10:30am-11:30am: Senior’s Fitness Columbia Valley Centre, $2 drop-in.
• 10:30am-12:30pm: Canal Flats Storytime & Summer Reading Club Canal Flats Lions Park. Invermere Public Library presents: Preschool Storytime at 10:30am - join us for stories and songs! This program is geared towards preschool kids, but all welcome to attend! Summer Reading Club is at 11:30am and geared towards kids in grades 1-7. Fill out a one-time registration form and drop into the days that work for you!
• 11:30am-12:30pm: Little Lambs Baby Group. Radium Public Library. Stories, rhymes, and songs for babies and their caregivers! Every Thursday!
• 3:00pm-7:00pm: Summit Youth Hub in the Flats. Canal Flats Arena. Every Thursday all summer the Summit Youth Centre will be at the Canal Flats arena with the mobile skate park, games, and BBQ! Send your teens!
• 5:30pm-6:30pm: Learn to Crochet. Invermere Public Library. Wanting to learn some crochet skills? Drop-in to get help with projects or learn some basic skills! Some supplies available to use, but we suggest you bring your own if you’re able! Other makers welcome to join with any textile project they’re working on! All welcome! This program is suitable for children ages 8+ Children must be accompanied by an adult.
• 6:45pm: Texas Hold ‘Em Poker Invermere Legion. $30 buy-in.
• 7:30pm: Families Housing that Fits. Zoom meeting with host Ben Postmus. Inclusive and supportive housing in your community. diversefamilyroots@gmail.com
• 7:30pm: Trivia Night Windermere Whitehouse Pub. Host Mandi Cox $3/ person, teams of more than 6 will be split into two groups. Ages 19+
Friday, August 15
• 5:00pm-late: Flats Fest Music Festival. Canal Flats Civic Centre. With two stages – the big, bold Columbia Stage, with well known Country Music Artists from Nashville and Canada, and the always-awesome Kootenay Stage showcasing our local talent – you’ll be dancing, singing, and soaking up the sounds from start to finish. This year we have the James Barker Band headlining on Friday night and Easton Corbin on Saturday night. But it's not just about the music – this is a full-on family affair! Little ones will love the kid zone with face painting and all kinds of fun activities. And don't miss our vibrant market where local vendors serve up tasty eats, cool crafts, funky jewelry, and more.
• 9:00am-11:00am: Tennis for Everyone. Rotary Ball Park and Tennis Courts. “Tennis for Everyone" - CV Mixed Doubles Tennis. Everyone is welcome!
• 4:00pm-8:00pm: Market on Main. Radium, Main Street West. Market on Main is back! 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, enjoy some live music and good vibes at the Market from 5:30 to 7:30 PM!
• 6:30pm - close: Meat Draw and 50/50 in the Legion! Members and guests welcome!
Saturday, August 16
• 11:00am-late: Flats Fest Music Festival. Canal Flats Civic Centre. With two stages – the big, bold Columbia Stage, with well known Country Music Artists from Nashville and Canada, and the always-awesome Kootenay Stage showcasing our local talent – you’ll be dancing, singing, and soaking up the sounds from start to finish. This year we have the James Barker Band headlining on Friday night and Easton Corbin on Saturday night. But it's not just about the music – this is a full-on family affair! Little ones will love the kid zone with face painting and all kinds of fun activities. And don't miss our vibrant market where local vendors serve up tasty eats, cool crafts, funky jewelry, and more.
• 9:00am-1:00pm: Invermere Farmers and Artists Market. Lakeview Parking Lot. All the vendors at the Invermere Farmers and Artists Market lovingly make, bake, grow their products just for you. 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, August 17
• 2:00pm: Cards, Cribbage and Darts Come to the Legion and have some fun! Members and guests welcome.
• 7:00pm: Live Music Horsethief Creek Pub & Eatery. Accompanied minors are permitted. No cover.
7:30pm: Dads Matter. Zoom meeting with host Ben Postmus. Dads connecting, Dads Supporting, Dads Inspiring. Do you have a son or daughter with Diverse Abilities? So do I. diversefamilyroots@gmail.com
Monday, August 18
• 9:00pm-11:55pm: Movies in the Mountains: Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles. Pothole Park. Movies in the Mountains returns to Downtown Invermere this summer! Every Monday evening in July and August, join the District of Invermere at Pothole Park for an exciting lineup of familyfriendly movies under the stars. Concession available! Movies will start at dusk (between 9pm-11:30pm).
• 9:00am-11:00am: Tennis for Everyone. Rotary Ball Park and Tennis Courts. “Tennis for Everyone" - CV Mixed Doubles Tennis. Everyone is 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! 30 minute sessions at 3:00, 3:30 or 4:00 pm. By Appointment Only!! Contact Invermere Library to sign up.
Tuesday, August 19
• 10:30am-11:30am: Senior’s Fitness. Columbia Valley Centre, $2 drop-in.
• 11:00am-3:30pm: Invermere Summer Reading Club. Invermere Library. Each week’s theme will be inspired by a different colour! We will follow the order of the rainbow (red, orange, yellow, green, blue, indigo, violet). The 8th and last session will be “Rainbow Wrap Party”! We encourage you to wear the colour-of-the-week! Ages 5*-8 programming will run from 11:00am-12:30pm. Ages 9-12 programming will run from 2:00pm-3:30pm. One-time registration is required. Once the registration form is filled out, you can drop-in to any session you’d like! Register online or stop by the library to fill out the form! Reading logs are available for pick-up at the Circulation desk at the library now!
• 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 20
• 6:00pm-8:30pm: Locals Live Concert Series: Shades of Blue. Pothole Park. Locals Live Concert Series Returns to Pothole Park in Downtown Invermere! Invermere’s free summer concert series featuring incredible local talent! Join us every Wednesday evening in July and August 2025.
• 9:00am-11:00am: Tennis for Everyone. Rotary Ball Park and Tennis Courts. “Tennis for Everyone" - CV Mixed Doubles Tennis. Everyone is welcome!
10:00am-11:00am: Senior's Yoga Columbia Valley Centre, $2 drop-in.
• 11:30am-12:00pm: Story Time. Radium Library. Join us for a story, songs and a craft! Geared towards preschool ages but all are welcome.
• 3:00pm-6:30pm: AgriPark Farmer’s Market. Crossroads next to Chamber of Commerce Offices. Local Farmers Market with Live Music. Featuring Farm Fresh Produce; local meat; eggs; and honey. Chefs, artisans, and bakers come to sell their goods in the historic barn. Facebook @ agriparkfarmers
• 3:00pm-7:00pm: Summit Youth Centre in Edgewater. Frank’s Rink in Edgewater. Every Wednesday all summer long, find the Summit Youth Centre at the Frank's Rink in Edgewater. We have our mobile skate park, games, and BBQ! Bring your teens!
• 6:00pm-9:00pm: Wednesday Dinners & Meat Draw & 50/50 Invermere Legion. All welcome.
COLUMBIA
ENTERTAINMENT
Toby Benches poet returns for book event
By Steve Hubrecht steve@columbiavalleypioneer.com
Some folks just have a way with words. This is particularly true in the Columbia Valley where tall tales abound and rumours can run through the community like wildfire. A good story is a good story, after all.
Next week a local resident who has made a career out of his way with words in an altogether different manner — as a poet, a translator, and an academic — will return home for a book event at the Invermere Public Library.
Zane Koss grew up on the Toby Benches overlooking Lake Lillian. He graduated from David Thompson Secondary School (DTSS) in
2006, moved to Ontario, then Montreal, then New York, and now lives in Guelph. Along the way he found success in literary circles, earning a PhD from New York University, and having his poetry, essays and translations featured in many different publications. His second book of poetry — ‘Country Music’ came out earlier this year, and Koss will give a reading from it at the library on Wednesday, Aug. 20. from 7 to 8 p.m.
But don’t think for a second that Koss values poetry and essays any more than yarns spun around campfires or over the kitchen table. In fact ‘Country Music’ celebrates these narratives, which Koss grew up with.
“My dad and his friends, and my mom, they were always telling
stories. With my dad, it was hunting stories, fishing stories, and hiking stories. With my mom it was funny stories about what my relatives had done. I was always mesmerized by them,” Koss told the Pioneer
He’s found that in academia, these kinds of accounts often get too little attention.
“Rural, blue-collar culture in general is often disregarded by scholars. But the stories that come from rural, working class people do have value. They often contain deep knowledge, built over generations, and they also have aesthetic value,” said Koss.
With ‘Country Music’, Koss hopes to overturn some of those misconceptions.
The book alternates sections back and forth, switching from parts in italics that retell tales Koss overheard as a youngster, to parts in normal text, in which Koss reflects on his relationship to the particular tale.
In the retelling of stories, Koss
tries to replicate exactly as he remembers them told, inhabiting the voice of the storyteller. In the reflective sections, Koss speaks in his own voice.
‘Country Music’ was published in April and the response so far has been very positive, Koss told the Pioneer. At many of the readings Koss has done for the book so far, “someone in the audience comes up after, explains that they grew up in rural northern Ontario, or rural Alberta, or rural New Brunswick and then says, ‘I know these people you are talking about. That’s how I grew up too’. It seems there are a lot of people in the art and literature and academic world that have a similar background as I do, and they too find that sort of background is not valued.”
Invermere Public Library community outreach assistant Katy Scotland said they are delighted to host Koss, but did caution that the poetry does contain explicit language.
Columbia Valley poet Zane Koss will do a reading at the Invermere Public Library on Wednesday, Aug. 20. PHOTO
Artist trio to grace The Artym Gallery
Submitted
On Saturday, Aug. 16 The Artym Gallery is pleased to present an exciting exhibition featuring three BC artists, Cameron Bird, Mike Svob, and Bi Yuan Cheng.
Svob and Bird will be at the gallery from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Saturday, creating a small demo painting and chatting with visitors.
Three incredible landscape artists in one show, with a combined love of Canadian scenery expressed in their individual styles, making for a show you don’t want to miss!
In addition to this stunning show the Artym is also fundraising for ICAN, Invermere’s non-profit, no kill, no cage, cat rescue and adoption facility.
Various gallery artists have created and donated paintings that can be won through the purchase of draw tickets. All proceeds go to ICAN veterinary bills. Call us at 250342-7566 or stop in any time this month to grab your tickets and help our furry friends.
To view the exhibition or the ICAN paintings to win, check us out online at www.artymgallery.com
Cameron Bird
Mike Svob
Bi Yuan Cheng
ANNOUNCEMENTS
Serving
Invermere & Area
cell 250-341-1202 gerry@gerrytaft.ca
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 End624 4th St. Invermere. Please call 250-342-2424 for more information or to speak with someone from our fellowship.
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
Valley Spas is to looking for a full time office/sales person. Send resumes via email to valleyspas09@gmail.com
Store Manager Required
Invermere Thrift Store is currently seeking a full-time/part-time Store Manager to oversee the day-to-day operations of the store. The schedule for this position is Tuesday-Saturday. For more details or to apply, please email ihcasap@outlook.com
Renovations, Masonry, Plumbing, Drywall & Painting. Please call Kevin
In loving memory of MEADOWS, Linda “Lindy” Robina
October 18, 1949 - June 28, 2025
It is with immense love that we announce the loss of Linda “Lindy” Robina Meadows, who passed away unexpectedly on June 28, 2025, at the age of 75. Lindy leaves behind a wealth of love, including her partner of 19 years, Paul; sons from her first marriage, Ian and Lee; Paul’s daughter Kaitlin; son-in-law Matthew; daughters-inlaw Samantha and Chantel; grandchildren Abigail and Emmett; and her husband from her first marriage, Eugene. She was predeceased by her loving parents, Semla “Billy” and Robert “Bob”. Lindy was born and raised in Vancouver, BC, and spent her life as someone who was thoughtful, curious, and deeply engaged with the world around her. Everyone knew her simply as Lindy, a name that suited her warmth and easy presence. She built a full life, raising her family in Windermere, BC with her first husband, Eugene. She had a way of making people feel at home. Her sons’ friends always knew they could count on a good meal and a place to feel welcome. Lindy’s creativity showed up early in her love of theatre. She went to acting school, but soon realized she was more at home directing, where her clarity and eye for detail stood out. She became a familiar presence in the local theatre community and later opened an art gallery, blending her artistic vision with her natural connection to others. At the same time, she had a deep interest in science and kept a well-stocked, well-read library. It was something she shared with her partner Paul. She was genuinely fascinated by his work as a scientist and spent time in the lab with him, taking it all in. Lindy also
loved the outdoors, including camping, fly-fishing, and hunting, which she passed on to her children. She had a particular love for poetry, and even in the face of health challenges later in life, she held onto her optimism and determination. She made the most of every moment and will be missed more than words can say. The family is thankful for the compassionate and professional care provided by Cottonwoods Care Centre in Kelowna, BC. Lindy’s family will hold a private gathering at a later date to commemorate her at Lake Enid, a place she cherished deeply and where many special memories were made. In honour of Lindy, please consider donations to Cottonwoods Care Centre through the Kelowna General Hospital Foundation, www.kghfoundation.com (when it asks “Direct my donation to” - select Cottonwoods Extended Care) Condolences may be sent to the family by visiting www.springfieldfuneralhome.com.
great night.
Cheers to Dara’s Dolphins Transportation Services for getting me to the Rock the Block Party on short notice. Sean was great. Very professional and friendly.
Cheers to Wes Raven for the good job looking after my yard. It looks great.
Cheers to RDEK for employing security guards at the Windermere Public Beach, Windermere residents appreciate this positive step!
CHEERS
CHEERS
Cheers to Christine at the legion for the great service! You do a fantastic job!
Cheers to Mountain Home Productions. The Rock the Block Party was fantastic! What a
On Thursday, August 7th, Martha Matilda Christie peacefully passed at the age of 95.
Martha, with husband Nat and their family, spent the majority of their vacation time in the Windermere Valley, before settling permanently into their dream home on their property at Larch Point. Martha was heavily involved in the Invermere community as a member of Village Arts, Board Director of the Columbia Valley Arts, the Invermere Seniors Center, Wings Over the Rockies and a volunteer for the Columbia Valley Food Bank, Meals on Wheels and the Go-Go Grannies – with whom she knit countless dish-squares in support of the Stephen Lewis Foundation. Additionally, she was an active golfer, bridge shark and longtime member of Christ Church Trinity.
Martha is predeceased by her husband Natt Christie, son Nat Christie and grandson Brendan Hamilton. She leaves behind her daughter, Paula Havard (Jonathan/Stephanie, Great Grandchildren Anders and Christopher) (James), son Phil Christie and wife Karin (Brad/Robyn, Great Grandchildren George and Eliza) (Patrick), daughter Carla-Jo Christie Hamilton (Christie, Grand dog Sula), Grandson Harrison Christie (son of Nat Christie) as well as her favourite nephews, nieces and many friends whom she considered to be part of her family.
Martha’s family would like to acknowledge Dr. Gareth Mannheimer, Amy, Karl and the staff from Invermere Homecare, the staff at Ivy House, as well as the nurses at the Invermere Hospital, whom all so lovingly supported and cared for Martha and her family during her final transition to rest.
A gathering celebrating Martha’s extraordinary life will be held on Saturday, September 20th, 2025. Details for same will be shared through the Invermere Seniors Center email list, and will additionally be posted on Martha’s Facebook page in the near future.
If you wish to make a donation in memory of Martha, please donate to the Columbia Valley Food Bank.
e-transfers: donationscvfb@shaw.ca Mail Cheque to: Columbia Valley Food Bank PO Box 2141, Invermere, BC V0A 1K0
Lake ambassadors support enforcement
Continued from page 6
We are pleased to learn of ?akisq’nuk First Nation’s interest in developing a lake stewardship plan and encourage all levels of government to come together with Indigenous governments and local organizations to co-create a long-term vision for lake health and use.
A collaborative stewardship framework would ensure that shortterm enforcement actions are not mistaken for comprehensive solutions, and would allow all parties to contribute to proactive, forwardthinking lake management.
Seniors advocate calls for more beds
Submitted
by
Office of the Seniors Advocate
A new systemic review released shows B.C. is not prepared to care for the most vulnerable seniors today or in the future due to the ongoing, increasing shortage of longterm care beds.
“Our province is at the beginning of a massive increase in the seniors’ population and we are not ready to help people age with the care, supports and services they need to stay safe and healthy,” said Dan Levitt, BC Seniors Advocate. “We need to plan and invest in more publicly-subsidized long-term care beds and assisted living units, home support services, respite for caregivers and increase rigour and transparency in the waiting and placement processes to better support families.”
Over the past 10 years, the waitlist for long-term care in B.C. has ballooned. Between 2016 and 2025, the number of people waiting to be admitted to long-term care rose from 2,381 to 7,212, an increase of 200 per cent.
The provincial average wait time has grown by 98 per cent over the past eight years, from 146 days in 2018, the first year data was collected, to 290 days in 2025.
grows over 700 per cent to meet the ministry’s projected future longterm care demand of 16,000 beds by 2035/36.
The BC Seniors Advocate made six recommendations in his report ‘From Shortfall to Crisis: Growing Demand for Long-Term Care Beds in B.C.’ aimed at meeting current and future demand:
• Ministry of Health, in collaboration with the Ministry of Infrastructure, extend and update the Long-Term Care Bed Expansion Plan to increase the supply of new long-term care beds with funding commitments beyond 2030/31 to increase capacity, meet growing demand and reduce wait times.
• The Ministry of Health improve access to community-based supports to help seniors remain at home longer and reduce the demand for long-term care by: Eliminating the financial barrier to accessing the provincial home support program; increasing the availability of adult day programs; and increasing the availability of respite care.
• The Ministry of Health strengthen the navigation of the long-term care system by establishing a consistent and transparent process, and expand access to essential supports for seniors and families waiting for publicly-subsidized long-term care. Improving supports for seniors and their families should include eliminating the home support assessed client contribution cost for people waiting for long-term care.
We believe this work should be paired with clear commitments to address illegal structures, including a pathway to remove non-compliant docks and buoys, rather than legalizing them after the fact.
Thank you for your attention to this matter and for your continued commitment to protecting our shared waterways.
The Lake Windermere Ambassadors are eager to collaborate in shaping both immediate actions and the longer-term vision for responsible lake use and stewardship.
“Most people are willing to care for an ageing loved one at home, but they need clear information about how the long-term care placement process works, as well as better supports inside the home to ensure the senior is well cared for and the caregiver can avoid burnout,” said Levitt. “Currently, caregivers tell our office that many community-based services can be unreliable and costly. This must change if we want to help people age in place and reduce demand on the long-term care system.”
Over time, the long-term care system has gone from 77 beds per 1,000 people (75+) a decade ago to 58 beds today, and this will drop to 41 beds by 2035/36 if beds are built and replaced at the current rate.
• The Ministry of Health, in collaboration with the ministries of Housing and Infrastructure, develop a comprehensive plan to expand access to a broader range of publiclysubsidized seniors’ housing options.
• The Ministry of Health must act with urgency to conduct a comprehensive review of health authority waitlist management practices and develop wait time targets.
• The Ministry of Health develop a detailed action plan outlining how it will address the findings and recommendations of this report, including clear timelines and deliverables with annual updates.
Taoya Schaefer, board chair, LWA
The Ministry of Health’s current 10-year bed expansion plan aims to increase the number of new beds by 10 per cent (2,935 beds) from 2025 to 2030; no additional beds are planned after 2030.
Society
As part of our role, the Lake Windermere Ambassadors would be glad to contribute monitoring data, community engagement support, and on-the-ground education that complements enforcement efforts.
Today, there is a 2,000-bed shortfall and that gap widens and
This plan must be submitted to the BC Seniors Advocate by October 1, 2025, the International Day of Older Persons.
Christie, Martha Matilda
Singer, songwriter finding her groove
By Steve Hubrecht steve@columbiavalleypioneer.com
Columbia Valley music lovers should get set for a psychedelic storm next week, when emerging Vancouver singer-songwriter Ayla TeslerMabé rolls into Invermere.
The show will be at ULLR Bar on Tuesday, Aug. 19.
The young musician’s rise on the British Columbia scene has been swift: she started out playing guitar in middle school and high school bands. She got more serious in her later teen years, and caught widespread attention as part of indie rock band Calpurnia and part of art pop trio Ludic.
Then two years ago she released her solo extended play (EP) album ‘Let Me Out!’ a genre blending mix of what Tesler-Mabé describes as psychedelic soul rock. Listen to a few songs and you’ll find plenty of guitar but also a lot of groove, and more than a small touch of the 1960s.
“A lot of people describe it as Brian Wilsoninspired, or like ‘Magical Mystery Tour’ but with a bit of funk,” Tesler-Mabé told the Pioneer
And why not? Tesler-Mabé first became interested in music through playing The Beatles: Rock
Public Notice
Public Notice
Vancouver singer-songwriter Ayla Tesler-Mabé will be in the Columbia Valley next week as part of her solo tour.
Band video game as a kid. She started out playing bass, then switched to guitar.
“At first I was all about just the guitar. But then over time, I began to care a lot more about all the other different elements that make a great song, and that’s how I kind of morphed into a singersongwriter,” said Tesler-Mabé. “It’s fine to have technically awesome guitar playing, but at the end of the day it doesn’t amount to too much if
part of Canfor’s Forest Stewardship Council Certification and Sustainable Forest Management Plan, the public invited to comment on the updated forest development proposals in the areas listed below
As part of Canfor’s Forest Stewardship Council Certification and Sustainable Forest Management Plan, the public is invited to comment on the updated forest development proposals in the areas listed below
Forest License A19040/K1W/A94545 - Elko/Sparwood/Cranbrook
est License A19040/K1W/A94545 - Elko/Sparwood/Cranbrook
Area
Area Landscape Unit/ Location
Yahk/Boyd/Gilnockie C09/ Yahk River
Yahk/Boyd/Gilnockie
the whole song doesn’t mean anything.”
Tesler-Mabé decided to do a solo album because “after collaborating with others for so long, I was curious to see what it would sound like and feel like to do something on my own,” she said.
The response to ‘Let Me Out!’ and the several singles that have followed the album is encouraging, said Tesler-Mabé, explaining “I’m definitely finding fulfillment in ways I’ve never found it before ... it feels like I’m finally just now starting to hatch out of my shell. I have a clearer sense of artistic identity and even personal identity.”
Tesler-Mabé has always been drawn to creative endeavours. But music holds a particular pull for her.
“Part of it I can’t explain. It’s always spoken to me. There’s something very alive about it. It’s expressive. I can’t put words to it,” she said.
The show at ULLR is part of Tesler-Mabé’s first-ever solo tour, which includes several stops in the Kootenay region. She has never visited this corner of the province, but her grandparents visited Invermere many years ago and “always talked about how beautiful it was, so I’m really looking forward to finally getting to see it,” she said.
Tickets for the show are $15 and can be purchased on Eventbrite.
Landscape Unit/ Location
Plumbob C11/ Teepee Creek Wigwam C14/ Wigwam
Lost Dog
C09/ Yahk River Plumbob C11/ Teepee Creek Wigwam C14/ Wigwam
C31 / Lost Dog - Mather
East Elk C38 / East Elk
Lost Dog
Mathew Creek C08 / Kimberley Watershed Perry Creek C02 / Perry – Moyie
C31 / Lost Dog - Mather East Elk
Bootleg Creek C07 / White Creek
C38 / East Elk
West Elk C23 / West Elk
Mathew Creek C08 / Kimberley Watershed Perry Creek
Sparwood Interface C24 / Lower Elk
Contact Kennedy Thomson, RPF @ 250-426-9320 or email at kennedy.thomson@canfor.com
Forest License A20212/A20214 - Creston
C02 / Perry – Moyie Bootleg Creek
C07 / White Creek West Elk
C23 / West Elk
Area
Sparwood Interface
Landscape Unit/ Location Boulder Creek K08/ Duck Lake Cold Creek/ Mahon K03/ Hawkins
C24 / Lower Elk
Contact Kennedy Thomson, RPF @ 250-426-9320 or email at kennedy.thomson@canfor.com
Contact Kennedy Thomson, RPF @ 250-426-9320 or email at kennedy.thomson@canfor.com
Forest License A18978- Canal Flats
est License A20212/A20214 - Creston
Area
Landscape Unit/ Location
Mt. Allen East/TaTa Creek I03 / Skookumchuck
Area
Boulder Creek
Landscape Unit/ Location
Johnson Lake South I04 / Premier Mutton Creek I10 / Nine Mile
K08/ Duck Lake Cold Creek/ Mahon K03/ Hawkins
Kootenay River I11 / Kootenay
Contact Paul Picard, RPF @ 250-402-3681 or email at paul.picard@canfor.com
Contact Kennedy Thomson, RPF @ 250-426-9320 or email at kennedy.thomson@canfor.com
Forest License A18979- Radium
est License A18978- Canal Flats
Area
Landscape Unit/ Location Pedley Creek I24/Pedley
Area
McDonald Creek I26/Horsethief
Mt. Allen East/TaTa Creek
Landscape Unit/ Location
South Steamboat Mountain I29 / Steamboat
I03 / Skookumchuck
Contact Brian Feeney, RFT @ 250-347-6655 or email at brian.feeney@canfor.com
Johnson Lake South
Tree Farm License 14- Parson
I04 / Premier Mutton Creek
Area
Kootenay River
I10 / Nine Mile
Landscape Unit/ Location Mitten Lake Road I35/Lower Spillimacheen
I11 / Kootenay
Contact Paul Picard, RPF @ 250-402-3681 or email at paul.picard@canfor.com
Contact Brian Feeney, RFT @ 250-347-6655 or email at brian.feeney@canfor.com
est License A18979- Radium
Please contact the appropriate Area Forester at the numbers listed above to arrange a mutually agreeable time to review the plans. Comments received by Sept. 14, 2025 will be considered in the planning and harvesting phases.
Area
Pedley Creek I24/Pedley
McDonald Creek
✓ Start with a free FireSmart Home Assessment.
✓ Complete some or all of the work indicated on the Assessment worksheet.
that you can get a FireSmart Rebate up to $5000 for completing FireSmart work on your home and yard in the Village of Radium Hot Springs? Contact Steve at FireSmart@radiumhotsprings.ca to register or for more information
✓ Apply for the rebate and receive 50% of your expenditures, up to $ 5,000.
Alternatively, you can visit the FireSmart page under Village Living and navigate to the FireSmart Assessments tab to register online.
Landscape Unit/ Location
I26/Horsethief