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?Akisq’nuk aim for lake stewardship plan
By Steve Hubrecht steve@columbiavalleypioneer.com
The ?Akisq’nuk First Nation is leading efforts to create an official stewardship plan for Lake Windermere.
Both ?Akisq’nuk council members and citizens have noticed an increase in use of (and pressure on) local lakes in recent years, ?Akisq’nuk chief administrative officer David Bach told the Pioneer, adding that given the First Nation’s long history of stewarding the lakes, this trend is naturally cause for concern for the ?Akisq’nuk.
“There’s not really many regulations in place for many aspects of the lakes, or if there are regulations they aren’t always enforced,” explained Bach. To fill that gap the band wants to work with the provincial government and with other local governments here in the valley to create an overarching plan to guide decisions about the lakes.
“As stewards . . . since time immemorial, we hold a deep and enduring responsibility to care for the lake . . . ”
Chief Donald Sam
“It’s been on our radar for a couple of years, but we are still very much in the early stages,” said Bach.
The ?Akisq’nuk discussed creating a plan with the provincial Ministry of Water, Land and Resource Stewardship (WLRS), and recently invited the District of Invermere (the largest community on Lake Windermere) to join these efforts. The First Nations will also ask the Regional District of East Kootenay (RDEK) since it touches both Lake Windermere and Columbia Lake, and the Village of Canal Flats, which is on Columbia Lake.
The invitation came in the form of a letter to Invermere council in late May.
“As stewards of ?amak?is Ktunaxa since time immemorial, we hold a deep and enduring responsibility to care for the lake, its ecosystems, and its role in sustaining
all living things - ?akxam’is q’api qapsins - who live in and around it,” wrote ?Akisq’nuk Nasu?kin (chief) Donald Sam. He later added “we believe that now is the time to come together as governments to identify shared values and responsibilities and to develop a long-term vision rooted in respect, sustainability, and mutual benefit.”
Bach explained that the ?Akisq’nuk are keen to collaborate with other levels of government and other stakeholders because a stewardship plan “will only be successful if we take a larger approach.”
Concerns have arisen among ?Akisq’nuk members not only about the rising number of lake (and river) users, but also about the possible effect of fertilizer runoff (especially at the south end of Lake Windermere where there seems to be an increasing amount of weeds), and about the potential impacts of certain types of recreational lake use — specifically wake boats, which Bach said can have an effect eight metres down in the water column. Lake Windermere, he pointed out, is a very shallow lake, for the most part ranging in depth from three metres to six metres.
Very few of these concerns have been the subject of detailed scientific studies, said Bach.
But he wanted to be clear: the ?Akisq’nuk do feel recreation has a place on the lake. “We are not antidevelopment. We are not saying ‘no use of the lake at all’. We just want to step back and take a look at the bigger picture. We want to make sure what we’re doing is healthy for the lake in the long term,” said Bach.
Indigenous people have been present in the Columbia Valley area for at least 10,000 years, noted Bach, which may help explain why the ?Akisq’nuk feel it is important to think long-term when it comes to the lake, and why they take their stewardship role seriously.
Invermere councillors were pleased with the invite.
Councillor Kayja Becker said that Invermere is really interested in being part of the project, and is very happy to have the ?Akisq’nuk take the lead on it.
The ?Akisq’nuk First Nation wants to create an official stewardship plan for Lake Windermere.
PHOTO CHERI HANN
Grass fire quickly contained
Columbia Valley Pioneer staff
The Windermere Fire Department was quick to contain a small grass fire in the Westroc Mine Road area on June 4.
Jon Tames, deputy chief of Columbia Valley Rural Fire & Rescue, said a cyclist reported the incident.
“This early detection was key to our crew being able to get it quickly actioned and extinguished.”
Six firefighters and three pieces of apparatus responded to the fire that was approximately 20 feet by 20 feet. The cause has not been deter-
mined.
“This is a good reminder that even though it is still early in the season, conditions are dry,” Tames cautioned.
Residents are encouraged to visit the BC Wildfire Service website (www.bcwildfire.ca) or contact the Southeast Fire Centre for the latest information on burning prohibitions, wildfire activity, and burning preparedness tips.
Category 3 fires are now prohibited and residents are urged to use extreme caution while conducting any type of burning. Conditions are very dry in the Columbia Valley.
Windermere firefighters extinguish a small grass fire in the Westroc Mine Road area on Wednesday, June 4.
PHOTO SUBMITTED
First Nations encourage repatriation
By Steve Hubrecht steve@columbiavalleypioneer.com
In recent years the repatriation of Indigenous relics, artifacts and cultural objects has made headlines all over Canada, and indeed around the world.
Most recently the Assembly of First Nations, the Manitoba Keewatinowi Okimakanak and the Assembly of Manitoba Chiefs called for the return of cultural, ceremonial and sacred objects from the Hudson’s Bay Company, which is facing creditor protection and has been liquidating its assets.
That particular case has garnered attention around the globe. But repatriation of Indigenous relics is an issue that local First Nations in the Columbia Valley deal with too.
“It takes away from the context of our history . . . these are not just relics but a tangible part of our identity.”
Joshua Martin
Shuswap Band manager of guardians and heritage, Joshua Martin told the Pioneer that several artifacts have been repatriated to the band during the past few years.
“It is becoming a little more common,” explained Martin.
The pieces include projectile points (such as arrowheads and spearheads) and clothing items such as gloves. Martin has put some of them in shadow boxes to display in the Shuswap Band office.
The Columbia Valley is filled with plenty of Indigenous artifacts, but unfortunately many of them have already been taken by non-Indigenous people.
This problem has existed since colonialism began — people simply went and grabbed artifacts (sometimes even including human remains such as skulls) and then brought them home, outlined Martin. It wasn’t always ‘pot hunters’ out specifically looking for cultural objects, but also people constructing buildings, highways, forestry roads and other forms of development.
Those who took the relics perhaps didn’t realize the full weight of what they were doing (under the provincial Heritage Conservation Act it is illegal to collect objects that pre-date 1846 on public or private lands), said Martin, but it certainly does have an impact, especially if people continue to hold onto the relics (when, for instance, they inherit them from an older relative).
“It takes away from the context of our history ... these are not just artifacts but a tangible part of our identity,” said Martin.
Finding objects in situ (in the exact place where they were) helps Indigenous archaeologists such as Martin determine the items’ age and also offer clues as to what exactly the artifacts are, how they were used, and their cultural significance. Removing the objects from where they were found can make figuring that out much harder.
Martin related how he was able to trace the origin of artifacts repatriated to the Shuswap Band to the east side of Columbia Lake. Others had origins in parts of Idaho and Montana. Other pieces can be clearly linked with certain types of stone in the Kimberley area and near Top of the World provincial park.
“It really shows the trade networks that once existed, and how widespread they were,” explained Martin. It’s also important because
“some of these relics do have sacred meanings and may have been used in ceremonies,” he added.
Some of the artifacts point to human habitation in the local region stretching back roughly 13,000 years, to the last ice age when glacial lakes dominated the area.
Repatriating relics to local First Nations “contributes to the healing of our communities. It is a concrete first step in reconciliation,” outlined Martin. “It enables elders and knowledge keepers to reconnect with younger generations through
traditional teachings related to these objects ... and it also allows the Shuswap Band, and other First Nations, to be stewards of their own heritage.”
Anyone in the Columbia Valley with artifacts they want to repatriate can contact the Shuswap Band or ?Akisq’nuk First Nation by calling them (250- 341-3678 for the Shuswap Band and 250-342-6301 for the ?Akisq’nuk First Nation) or by stopping by their offices during work hours.
Repatriation of Indigenous relics is an issue that local First Nations are dealing with.
PHOTO STEVE HUBRECHT
VALLEY VIEWS
Heed the cry: Don’t drink and drive
One of the most profound tragedies in this region has caused an emotional ripple effect that will haunt many residents for years to come. But one can only hope this will serve as a stark reminder to others that their actions, even for a moment, can destroy lives forever.
Last summer a motor vehicle incident in Wilmer robbed the lives of three young men because someone chose to drink and drive.
As graduation ceremonies are put into high gear, parents, teachers and civic leaders need to implore our youth not to make the same mistake . . . not to let misery dictate their future (or the future of friends and family in the community).
Young people want to have fun. We get it. They want to be cool, go fast, and impress their friends. But they need to truly understand the consequences when they throw alcohol into the mix.
The driver of last summer’s tragedy never intended to hurt anyone . . . she just wanted to have fun. Now everyone has to suffer and carry this ball and chain around.
How many more deaths will it take before the message sinks in? How many more mothers and fathers must cry themselves to sleep? They shouldn’t be outliving their sons and daughters. Nobody should.
Some people believe drastic measures are needed to save these innocent lives because all of this talk, all of these seminars and workshops are not changing behaviours. Do we ban alcohol again . . . go back to prohibition? Should all vehicles be equipped with ignition interlock systems that prevent starting when alcohol is detected? Should it be mandatory that students take a don’tdrink-and-drive course before they graduate?
Of course, the other solution, which has been advocated for years, is making the impaired driving laws (and consequences) far more stringent. It won’t bring our loved ones back, but it will serve as a more convincing deterrent to others who choose to play roulette behind the wheel.
Lyonel Doherty, editor
Historical Lens
LLC honours local doctor
Submitted
As an award-winning national non-profit founded in the Columbia Valley, local leadership has been instrumental in guiding Living Lakes Canada’s growth and deepening its impact.
To honour the lasting contributions of three departing directors, Living Lakes Canada commissioned handmade Kintsugi bowls from Kimberley ceramicist Asha Robertson as gifts.
Recently, Executive Director Kat Hartwig presented Dr. Jane Fleet with her bowl at Lake Windermere, the place where Living Lakes officially became a charity in 2017, and where Jane began her eight-year journey on the board.
Bowls were also gifted to Mandi McRobbie (2017–2023) and Jen Theberge (2017–2024).
Kintsugi, the Japanese art of repairing broken pottery with lacquer, symbolizes the fragile nature of freshwater ecosystems, as well as the care and commitment to conservation given by these directors. We are deeply grateful for their leadership in helping steward Living Lakes from its very beginning.
Lyonel Doherty
Christina Boucher
Dr. Jane Fleet (left) receives her Kintsugi bowl from Living Lakes Canada executive director Kat Hartwig.
PHOTO LLC
LETTERS
Concerns raised about mitigation project
We attended the RDEK town hall meeting on Wednesday, June 4, which included a presentation on the status of the Cold Spring Creek Debris Flow Mitigation Project.
While the RDEK congratulated themselves on achieving “substantial completion” of this $13.6 million project on budget, what was not made clear is the staggering financial burden this has placed on residents in the Local Service Area which was set up to pay for the Fairmont Flood and Landslide Services.
Since 2020, taxes in the Local Service Area have increased by 600 per cent, rising from $90.99 in 2020 to $630.72 in 2024 in our case. This massive increase has occurred without a vote by elector assent, despite earlier indications that such a vote would be required. Instead, the project was forced through using director consent.
The additional capital cost of $1,150,000 and the unknown ongoing maintenance costs are falling solely on roughly 1,100 property owners in the Local Service Area, many of whom are seniors living on fixed incomes.
At the November 30, 2023 town hall meeting in Fairmont, Area F director Susan Clovechok advised that this same process of director consent could be used again in other areas such as Windermere Creek and Panorama, under provisions of the Local Government Act. This sets a troubling precedent.
Since 2015, our Local Service Area taxes have increased from $0.13 per $1,000 of property value to an approved $0.90 per $1,000 as of 2021. At the October 23, 2023 meeting and again recently, we were told that even that will not be sufficient for the project’s ongoing maintenance and that we should expect further increases — in perpetuity. This project addresses a federally controlled
waterway on private land. It is unclear why such an immense financial responsibility has been placed on such a small, local group of residents. While we do not suggest that no action was necessary, many residents believe the scale and scope of this project represents government overreach — or as one resident aptly put it at a meeting, “it’s killing a mosquito with a baseball bat.”
They remember when the Wilders would send workers up to clean out the debris and keep the creek flowing. It is also worth noting that none of the prior assessment reports available on the ‘engage’ site reflected the 2021 modelling by BGC Engineering that was ultimately used to justify the project.
The lack of clear, prior disclosure has left many feeling that the decision was made without a full and open evaluation of alternatives or impacts. With another large-scale project looming on Fairmont Creek, we ask: what impact will that have on our taxes, and will we have a say in its scope and approval?
We need assurances that lessons have been learned from this process and that affected residents will be engaged in a transparent and meaningful way going forward.
Residents in the Local Service Area have raised serious concerns — many of which are documented in the video of the town hall meeting posted on the engage site. Other parts of Fairmont, such as Dutch Creek, which benefit from shared infrastructure and amenities, are not part of the Local Service Area and are not contributing to these costs. Why is there not sufficient funding available both provincially and federally to support this project rather than putting this burden on the Local Service Area?
not afford to bear this kind of financial burden again without full disclosure, accountability, and most importantly — the ability to have our voices heard. It happened to us. It could happen to you.
Harold and Linda Pfeiffer, Fairmont
•
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us to experience the wonders of a garden center.
Shown here is the mitigation project’s concrete dam.
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Celebrate National Indigenous Peoples Day
Columbia Valley Pioneer staff
June 21 is National Indigenous Peoples Day and local First Nations are inviting young and old to take part in the celebration.
The Shuswap Band is hosting a special event at Columbia Valley Centre on June 20 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. The celebration will feature dancers, drumming, Indigenous craft vendors, food vendors, activities, games, and more.
People are asked to bring cash for the food and craft vendors.
?Akisq’nuk First Nation is planning a “community strengthening dinner” at Lakeshore Campground on Wednesday, June 18 from 5 to 7 p.m.
Come celebrate with friends, family and neighbours with laughter and mouthwatering chicken, beef, and salmon burgers. The event will also include games and a cornhole tournament.
The Ktunaxa Kinbasket Child & Family Service Society is hosting a celebration in Cranbrook’s Rotary Park on June 18 from 12:30 to 5 p.m.
The theme will be “community,” featuring
drumming, traditional dancing, booths, displays, and food to celebrate the strength, diversity and unity of Indigenous cultures.
National Indigenous Peoples Day takes place on the summer solstice, the longest day of the year when First Nations, Inuit and Métis communities celebrate their culture, language, and traditions.
The summer solstice holds deep spiritual and cultural significance for many Indigenous Peoples, marking a time of renewal, connection, and celebration.
Learn about elder abuse, dementia care
Submitted advertorial
This month the Invermere Community Response Network (CRN) will be marking the United Nations designated World Elder Abuse Awareness Day (WEAAD) with a free lunch and learn presentation - Unintentional Emotional Abuse: Strengthening Relationships in Dementia, at the Invermere Seniors Hall from 12:30 to 2 p.m. on Monday, June 16.
The organization is a member of the British Columbia Association of Community Networks and one of over 90 CRNs across the province that create a coordinated community response to adult abuse, neglect and self-neglect.
WEAAD is observed globally on June 15 and represents a unified commitment to promoting the dignity and rights of older adults by bringing together communities, organizations, and nations to celebrate aging while taking a stand against elder abuse in all its forms.
This year’s national theme "Be Bold - Age with Attitude" celebrates the strength, wisdom, and resilience of older adults while promoting their right to live free from abuse and discrimina-
tion. This approach combines celebration with education, creating communities where aging is honoured and elder abuse is prevented through awareness, understanding, and action.
Experts believe elder abuse is not only significantly under-reported, but it also remains a largely hidden crime, in part because many victims feel embarrassed, don’t want to get a family member in trouble or fear retaliation. Data from Seniors First BC, hosts of the Seniors Abuse and Information Line (SAIL), shows the number of seniors and their family members reporting abuse has increased by 92 per cent over the past five years. RCMP have also reported an 18 per cent increase in seniors being victims of a violent offence, a 23 per cent increase in being an assault victim, and an 88 per cent increase in frauds experienced by seniors over the past five years.
Getting involved in your local Community Response Network is a great way to help raise awareness and prevent elder abuse. CRNs bring together concerned community members, service providers, non-profit organizations, government and professionals who work with older adults, to better understand the importance of preventing isolation, knowing how to spot the
June 18th, 2025 - Annual Radium FireSmart Community Chipping Day
16,
or invermere.crn@gmail.com
This program allows residents to remove combustible vegetation from their properties, with the chipping crew handling the debris removal. Residents can put out FireSmart Debris up to 10 days before June 18th for removal on the 18th. Registration is required, as the crew will only visit the addresses on its list. To register, email village@radiumhotsprings.ca, and provide your name, civic address in Radium, and a contact number. For more information email firesmart@radiumhotsprings.ca
Or visit: radiumhotsprings.ca/village-living/firesmart/ radium-hot-springs-firesmart-events/
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
warning signs of abuse, and what to do to address various situations of abuse or neglect. By doing all that we can to strengthen the social support structures, we can reduce social isolation, protect communities and families against elder abuse. To learn more about CRNs in the province, and how you can get involved, visit www.bccrns. ca
Opportunity
Rate to be negotiated
Busy location in Fairmont Hot Springs Inquiries to Ryan Haynes rhaynesn49@gmail.com Text or call: 250-341-7345
ANNOUNCMENT FROM DIRTY
BLINDS REPAIR
We are happy to announce that Valley Solutions has acquired our blind repair business. Since it adds another level of service to the comforts they have been providing the valley for twenty years, we believe this is a perfect fit for their business. Going forward, please call 250-341-8443 for all your house checking and blind repair needs!
Dirty Blinds greatly appreciates your business for the past eighteen years. Thank-You!
Doug and Cathy Cowan
COLUMBIA VALLEY CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
OUT OF OFFICE…
Here comes summer!
It’s June, and that means that the Columbia Valley is beginning to fill up and take off! This is the time of year that is filled with anticipation and sometimes just a smidge of trepidation: one look at the workcolumbiavalley.ca shows you how many local businesses are looking for help for this upcoming busy season!
Kicking off the busy season, join Community Futures East Kootenay and Columbia Valley Economic development for their summer edition of She Means Business: a free women’s networking event at Trader’s Lounge at Eagle Ranch with a parfait buffet and incredible connections. See you on Friday June 13th from 8:30am-10:30am – tickets available through Eventbrite.
June is also Pride month – you may have noticed some brightly decorated windows around town. Once again the Columbia Valley Chamber of Commerce has teamed up with the Summit Youth Hub and Columbia Valley Pride with their Window Painting for Pride initiative! This is a way to visibly support inclusion and this year even more businesses are embracing the rainbow. The Columbia Valley Pride non-profit organization has also partnered with several local businesses this
year to celebrate Pride:
Thursday June 12
• 8pm: Musical Bingo at Ullr with host Tim!
Friday June 13
• Pride Flash Tattoo day at Fire Vixen tattoos – book your time now!
Saturday June 24th
• 9am-12pm: Pancake Breakfast with Akisq’nuk at their Invermere offices
• 2pm-5pm: Pride Festival at Pothole Park: vendors, food & performances
9pm: Horsethief Pub Drag Show – get your tickets now at horsethiefpub.ca
This month is also host to the second Lunch and Learn Event co-hosted with the Columbia Valley Chamber of Commerce and the Invermere Campus of the College of the Rockies; this month with KAST (Kootenay Association for Science and Technology). This, the second session in our Lunch & Learn series is: Practical AI for Your Business or Organization. Join us for this interactive lunchtime workshop gaining fresh ideas to enhance your business or organization. Explore proven ways to support and motivate your team, improve efficiency, strengthen communications and marketing, and so much more. Feeling stretched? Learn practical AI strategies and tools to boost efficiency and help your small business or non-profit thrive. Bring your laptop, a bagged lunch and your biggest challenge for this handson session. These sessions are $20 for nonmembers of the Columbia Valley Chamber and $15 for Columbia Valley Chamber members –register now by contacting the College. Summer is well on it’s way – time to work hard and play hard!
-Deanna Berrington
COLUMBIA
CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
Thursday, June 12
8:00pm: Pride Musical Bingo with Tim. Ullr Bar. Join Tim Richards for musical bingo to kick off the Pride weekend festivities! CV Pride will also be running a 50-50 raffle.
• 10:00am-12:00am: Work BC Employment Workshops – Time Management 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 drop-in.
• 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: CommuniTea. Invermere Public Library. Join us for a cup of tea and a chat on the 2nd & 4th Thursday of each month. 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+ person, teams of more than 6 will be split into two groups. Ages 19+ Friday, June 13
• 8:30am-10:30am: She Means Business. Eagle Ranch – Trader’s Lounge. The Columbia Valley is full of inspirational women in business! Whether you're leading a nonprofit organization, running your own business or thinking of stepping into the entrepreneur world, we want you to join us for coffee, parfaits and a morning of meaningful connections! Get your tickets on Eventbrite!
• 10:30am-11:00pm: A Pride Storytime Starring Glimmer! Invermere Public Library. Join us at the library for stories, songs and fun to celebrate Love and Acceptance! Join Glimmer, your fat fairy godmother for this special storytime. All welcome to attend!
• 12:00pm-6:00pm: Flash Your Pride. Fire Vixen Tattoos. Flash tattoo day at Fire Vixen with Columbia Valley Pride. $120 for a flash piece. Contact the shop to save a spot! (250) 342-8844.
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 days: A fun, new craft each session.
• 6:30pm - close: Meat Draw and 50/50 in the Legion! Members and guests welcome!
• Saturday, June 14
• 9:00am-12:00pm: Free Pancake Breakfast for Pride ʔakisq nuk First Nation
Invermere offices. Kick off the morning with a FREE Pancake Breakfast, hosted by ʔakisqnuk First Nation at #506 - 625 4th Street Invermere (next to the Courthouse).
• 2:00pm-5:00pm: Pride Festival. Pothole Park. Join us at our annual Pride Festival in Pothole Park! All ages festival with great vendors, booths, and performances. Free BBQ too!
• 9:00pm-11:30pm: Columbia Valley Pride Drag Show. Horsethief Pub. Wrap up Columbia Valley Pride with a bang! Join hostess April Storm, with special guests Angelina Starchild and Shane Onyou, for a night of fierce performances, laughter, and celebration. The Columbia Valley Pride Drag Shows at the Horsethief are always a hot ticket—so grab yours early!
• 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, June 15
• 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, June 16
• 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
Tuesday, June 17
11:00am-8:00pm: Business Best Ball Golf Tournament by the Columbia Valley Chamber of Commerce. Radium Springs Course. This annual event is not to be missed! You'll work up an appetite after your best ball, shotgun start tournament and be rewarded with a delicious buffet dinner! Thanks to our amazing sponsors!
• 10:00am-11:00am: Work BC Employment Workshop – Transferrable Skills. 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 drop-in.
• 10:30am-11:30am: Home School Meet Up. Invermere Library. Drop-in, all ages programming with open-ended STEAM play, group activities and art projects! This week: Lego Gap Crossing Experiment. Contact us to get on the Home School email list!
• 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, June 18
• 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
3:30pm-4:45pm: After School Club. Invermere Public Library. A window of transition time between school and home or extra-curriculars. 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-7:00pm: Write On! Writing Group. Invermere Library. A monthly writing group to share work, receive feedback, and build writing skill and confidence. Contact the library to get on the Write On! email chain. All welcome to attend.
• 6:00pm-9:00pm: Wednesday Dinners & Meat Draw & 50/50 Invermere Legion. All welcome.
Canal Flats funding motion goes to UBCM
By Steve Hubrecht steve@columbiavalleypioneer.com
A resolution put forward by the Village of Canal Flats seeking better provincial funding opportunities for infrastructure projects was endorsed earlier this spring at the Association of Kootenay and Boundary Local Government (AKBLG) convention in Kimberley. It will now go to the Union of British Columbia Municipalities (UBCM) convention in Victoria in late September.
The resolution was prepared by Canal Flats officials in part because of their frustration over being mandated by the provincial government to make expensive upgrades to their water and sewer system (quite possibly including a new water treatment plant).
Many Canal Flats residents are upset at the move since their water always passes quality tests, and since the upgrades could cost up to
$5 million — a staggering price tag for a municipality with a population of just 800.
The resolution points out that small communities in B.C. face challenges due to rising infrastructure costs and increased provincial permitting requirements for providing essential services, such as drinking water.
The cost of upgrades to meet these new regulations is “too great to be passed on to residents by taxation and is far above borrowing capacity or funding by small local governments,” reads the resolution, which then suggests the UBCM talk with provincial authorities about developing new funding opportunities for infrastructure projects and new funding specifically for municipalities with fewer than 5,000 residents to help with essential services.
Canal Flats mayor Mark Doherty pointed out that money for capital infrastructure projects flows steadily
Mountain Al Fresco
A Dining Experience in White
to large municipalities, but barely trickles into smaller ones. On one hand this makes sense because there are more people in larger cities. But on the other hand, smaller communities with smaller populations need the financial help more than big centres since tiny towns simply don’t have a large enough tax base to pay for such projects.
Metro Vancouver’s NorthShore wastewater treatment plant, for instance, is already $2.8 billion over budget, noted Doherty. The provincial and federal government have committed a combined $405 million for that project. For Canal Flats they’ve committed nothing.
“The big ones (municipalities) get the money because that’s where the votes are,” said Doherty. If the same $405 million from the province and the feds flowed instead to local governments in the Columbia Valley, every community here could have not just a new water treatment
plant, but also every other infrastructure upgrade they might need too, he pointed out.
Doherty was happy the resolution was endorsed by the AKBLG, but not surprised. Several other Kootenay local governments also put forward similar resolutions too, so it was clearly a popular notion, he said. “I think they picked ours to forward to the UBCM (over the other similar resolutions) just because they liked the way ours was worded.”
He said he hopes the resolution gets a good reception at the UBCM and added he’s looking forward to meeting with provincial officials.
“What it will result in, I don’t know, but I’m always hopeful,” said Doherty.
He noted that many other Columbia Valley municipalities have aging infrastructure, most of it at least 60 years old. “If we stick together and speak with one voice, it can help,” he said.
2025
Canal Flats council feels the village is getting short-changed by the government on infrastructure funding.
PHOTO SYD DANIS
12:00pm – Secret location revealed via email
6:00pm – Event grounds open
7:00pm – Wave your napkins- it’s dinner time!
6:00pm – 8:00pm – Singer & Songwriter Maddisun 8:00pm – 10:00pm – DJ Sound Logic JULY
Massif Projects Inc. offers earthworks
Submitted advertorial
Massif Projects Inc., a new to the valley excavation company, has a goal to become a trusted organization specializing in small and large earthworks services for the region.
This family-run organization began in 2018 near Water Valley, AB with Blair and Adrienne Donnan.
Blair was a heavy equipment operator working in the Alberta oilfields, while Adrienne worked closely with new home builders in residential construction.
Though they found success working in the Calgary area, the desire to be part of a smaller community and have more engagement with their clients drew them towards the Columbia Valley.
Massif’s latest and most sought-after service is stump grinding, which involves a grinding at-
tachment that fits onto their excavator and can grind almost any sized stump in a fraction of the time that it would normally take.
“It’s pretty cool to watch in action and after completion you can even repurpose the wood chips for landscaping or as a base for planter boxes and beds,” Adrienne said.
“As you can imagine, there are many people who have an annoying stump (or several) in their yard that would benefit from utilizing this service,” she noted.
The company offers many other compact excavation services such as yard cleanup (brush, stumps, deadfall), slope retention and stone retaining walls, concrete prep, utilities trenching, drainage and more. Visit their website for a full list of services. (www.massifprojects.ca)
Massif’s mission statement is to provide value to people’s lives and build an integral company that is trusted within the community.
Adrienne and Blair Donnan’s family-run business, Massif Projects Inc., specializes in large and small earthworks services. The latest and most sought-after service is stump grinding.
June 14, 2025 10am-1pm 5938 Columbia Lake Road Fairmont Hot Springs, BC
Kodi-Lee Logan Associate Broker Royal LePage Rockies West Realty Cell: 250-688-1374 (Call or Text) Office: 250-342-5599 www.kodileelogan.com
Friday, July 4
Porch Parties around town From 4-10pm
July 5
Music on Stage
day from 11am - Edgewater Community Park
Party in the Hall at 10pm
July 6 Workshops at All Saints Churchyard - 11am-3pm
Mark Lorenz
Spruce Tops
Intended
PHOTO SUBMITTED
Gerriann Donahue named top volunteer
By Steve Hubrecht steve@columbiavalleypioneer.com
Black Forest Heights resident Gerriann Donahue has been named Regional District of East Kootenay (RDEK) Area F Volunteer of the Year.
In giving the award, RDEK officials cited Donahue’s volunteer efforts with the Friends of the Invermere Public Library, the Invermere Seniors Association board of directors, and the Columbia Valley Rockies.
Area F director Susan Clovechok told the Pioneer that even back in the 1970s, when Donahue worked as a teacher in the Columbia Valley and was raising her kids, she was always volunteering. She continued to help
out when she moved to Yellowknife, and volunteered even more when she later moved back to the valley.
“This is just a way of life for Gerriann,” said Clovechok. “She may be retired as a teacher, but she doesn’t think of retirement the same way most people do. For her it just means she has even more time to give back to the community.”
Clovechok pointed out that Donahue’s various volunteer roles see her helping out many different age demographics — seniors through her work with the Invermere Seniors Association, young adults through the Rockies, and kids through her focus on children’s literacy with Friends of Invermere Public Library.
“It’s a reflection of who she is —
LEARN HOW TO
BETTER PROTECT YOUR HOME FROM
HOME ASSESSMENT WILDFIRE
she likes to help everyone,” said Clovechok.
With the Friends of Invermere Public Library Donahue often sets up the children’s section at used book sale fundraisers. When the COVID-19 pandemic hit it was her idea to hold the BIG Book Sale outdoors — the event was so popular it continues to to be held on the August long weekend each year. Donahue also came up with the pop-up book sales, held in the parking lot near the downtown Invermere Farmers and Artists Market all summer.
With the Columbia Valley Rockies, Donanue has been the smiling face at the ticket table for more than 15 years. She also helps with prizing and fundraising events.
For the Invermere Seniors Association Donahue has started or helps organize many programs, including fitness, yoga, carpet bowling, floor curling, scrapbooking, cribbage and poker, among others. She is also known for her emails to Seniors Association members, keeping them up to date on activities, community events, health issues, and community issues they may have an interest in. Donahue also created the InterGenerational Program, which connects Kindergarten, Grade 1, and Grade 2 students from elementary school with local seniors, sharing educational and social time.
Donahue was honoured on Wednesday, June 4 at a town hall meeting in Windermere.
Gerriann Donahue (left) accepts the honour of Volunteer of the Year from RDEK Area F director Susan Clovechok.
Bull Riding in the Rockies celebrates 25th
By Stephanie Stevens
It started out as a crazy but wonderful idea: Bull Bustin’ in Eddie Mountain Memorial Arena, a fundraiser for the Columbia Valley Rockies hockey team.
You could buy a ticket, settle in with a plate of beef and baked beans, watch the kiddies in mutton bustin’ and then on to the main event: bulls, cowboys, dust and adrenaline, all on the blue line.
It was a great idea . . . one that grew and grew until the arena just couldn’t hold it anymore.
Flash forward 25 years and the event, now Bull Riding in the Rockies, is held in the lot across the street from the Eddie and draws upward of 2,400 spectators, and it remains the hockey team’s biggest fundraiser of the year.
“It is a huge part of our annual budget,” said Rockies president Brett Holt. “Northcott Rodeo Inc is
booked and Cole Malone is coming back again for the dance after the bull riding.”
Professional rodeo clown Dennis Halstead is also booked for the July 18 event.
“We are in a really good place (as an organization) and we want to expand the event, keep it fresh,” said Holt. “Radium Brewing is coming up with a label design just for the event.”
The location is once again across from Eddie Mountain Memorial Arena, thanks to longtime supporters Nina Reilly and Phillip Sommerville.
In addition to the main event, there will be a Rockies BBQ, 50-50 draw and beer garden.
Tickets are available exclusively on Showpass.com and includes the rodeo followed by a dance under the tent with headliner Cole Malone.
There is still a lot to get done before the bulls and cowboys ar-
CLASS of 2025
Proud
Share your pride and congratulations with a personalized ad in the Pioneer’s Graduation Feature, and create a lasting keepsake for your graduate seen by family, friends, and the entire community.
Celebrate their hard work and achievements in style! Create your own or let our graphic designer do it for you at no extra charge.
Publish date: July 3, 2025
Submission deadline: June 13, 2025
Contact Cheri Hann sales@columbiavalleypioneer.com
250-341-6299 x103
rive, but this year the added stress and expense of having to rebuild the bleachers is not one of them.
There will be a painting party to freshen things up, hence the need for volunteers to help prepare and run the day.
The call is also out for sponsors for cowboys, bulls and bleachers. If you want to get your name in the program or on the bleachers, reach out to Paige Holt at cvrockies.marketing@gmail.com.
Bull Riding in the Rockies returns to Invermere on July 18.
PHOTO CAIO PAAGMAN
Track time!
J.A. Laird Elementary School students with a penchant for running took to the track for the 1,500 metre run on Tuesday, June 3. Solo runners are Lennox Kokko and Nate Shanks.
SPORTS
Invermere on the Lake
ANNUAL MEETING AND 2024 REPORT
Pursuant to Section 98 of the Community Charter (BC), the Annual Meeting and presentation of the 2024 Annual Report for the District of Invermere will be presented during the June 24, 2025 Regular Meeting of Council. The Annual Meeting will take place at 7:00 pm in the Invermere Council Chambers located at the District of Invermere Municipal Office at 914 – 8th Avenue, Invermere, BC VOA 1K0
Invermere Council invites submissions and questions concerning the 2024 Annual Report. In order to be considered by Council, submissions and questions need to be submitted to the Municipal Office before 4:30 pm on June 23, 2025.
Please email submissions, questions, or comments to info@invermere.net
Copies of the 2024 Annual Report are available for public inspection at:
• District of Invermere webpage
• District of Invermere Facebook page
• District of Invermere Municipal Office located at 914 – 8th Avenue, Invermere, BC VOA 1K0
Tel: 250-342-9281
Fax: 250-342-2934
(copies are available during regular business hours, 8:30 am to 4:30 pm)
Questions concerning the content of the 2024 Annual Report may also be addressed to District staff by email: info@invermere.net, telephone call to 250342-9281, or by in-person visit at the Municipal Office.
Dean McKinley
Chief Administrative Officer
PHOTOS STEVE HUBRECHT
Canal Flats to establish upgrade committee
By Steve Hubrecht steve@columbiavalleypioneer.com
The Village of Canal Flats will soon start looking for volunteers for its Civic Centre Upgrade Review Committee.
Councillors were set to discuss the terms of reference for the committee during their meeting last week, just after the Columbia Valley Pioneer went to press.
The general idea is that the committee will function in a somewhat similar vein as the Canal Flats Water Advisory and Protection Committee, in that it will be formed of local citizens who will research the issue (in this case the issue is looking at what upgrades are needed for the civic centre, how they should be prioritized, how much that may cost, etc) and will then produce a report for council.
“It’s much better to have input from citizens in this way, than for us to just decide as a council,” Canal Flats mayor Mark Doherty told the Pioneer. “Once we (council) get their report and their recommendations, we’ll see what we can get done and make some decisions.”
The matter was also discussed a few weeks ago during the May 26 Canal Flats council meeting. At that meeting councillor Paul Marcil pressed his case that civic centre up-
grades should be a high priority.
“There’s going to be serious demolition of what’s existing and we have no plan for putting it all back together,” said Marcil.
He questioned if it’s possible to get the work scheduled for this summer (which includes reinforcing trusses, putting in new ceiling tiles and re-doing electrical work) by the end of September.
Marcil worried that failing to finish by the end of September could mean loss of grant funding, and he added there are further measures that ought to be taken to improve the civic centre.
Canal Flats chief administrative officer Sylvie Hoobanoff clarified that the grant money was only for energy upgrades such as solar panels, and that the work set for this summer is not quite as large scale as it may seem.
“We will not have to remove the whole roof. The plan is the tin or metal that’s on there now is going to come off. There would be some cables that go in to shore it up ... (then) insulation over that, and (then) the roof (back on),” said Hoobanoff. In fact, she added the scale of the work is small enough that “it may be done in-house (by village staff). We may not have to put it out to contract.”
Hoobanoff was confident it will be done by the end of September.
She added that further upgrades can easily be done in the future.
“It doesn’t have to be all or nothing (for upgrades right now). It could be done in phases,’ said Hoobanoff.
She noted an engineering report done in either 2007 or 2008 estimated the civic centre had only 15 years left.
“That 15 years has come and gone. But because we have been doing maintenance, because we’ve been taking care of it (the centre) ... now they think we can save this building,” she said.
In terms of making the civic centre a higher priority, she said “we have a lot of things we (the village) need to buy that may be more important than a new hall.” She listed a new public works building, a new fire hall, water system upgrades, and sewer system upgrades.
Marcil was not convinced.
“We need a plan,” he insisted. “I think the building (the civic centre) is an extremely ugly building,” he said.
Marcil was also concerned about accessibility, or lack thereof.
“I can’t believe that we allow a public building in our village to not even have accessible doors. It’s a shame that we’re not looking at things like that,” he said. “That’s what the committee should be doing, and that should be formed ASAP and get
New SPU trailer acquired
Submitted
The Columbia Valley Rural Fire and Rescue Service departments (Edgewater, Fairmont Hot Springs, Panorama, and Windermere) have acquired a new type 2 Structure Protection Unit (SPU) trailer.
With this trailer, an average of 35 structures
can be protected from the threat of wildland urban interface fires.
This meaningful resource would not have been possible without funding from Columbia Basin Trust through a Small Community Wildfire Readiness Support grant.
The Regional District of East Kootenay is grateful to the Trust for its continued support.
it started.”
Doherty conceded that an accessible door must be added and that the already-scheduled upgrades are needed, but aside from that, he defended the centre, noting “there are a lot of people in this community of the opinion that it’s a viable place.”
Many of the Canal Flats residents who pitched in to build the centre decades ago still live in the village, Doherty pointed out, adding they are proud of their work and would probably be offended to hear council members dismiss their efforts as “ugly.”
“It needs a facelift,” Marcil maintained.
Doherty responded that the committee is being struck precisely to figure what needs to be done, and how pressing each aspect of that is. “That’s what the committee is about,” he said.
“I asked to put the committee together. I sent you the letter (asking) to do that,” interjected Marcil.
“And that’s what we’re doing,” replied Doherty.
“What are you doing?” shot back Marcil. “You’re going to start a committee. Who’s going to run the committee? Who’s going to be chair of the committee?”
“We’ll have a discussion about that later,” Doherty answered.
Notice of Annual Report and Meeting
Pursuant to
Council invites submissions and questions concerning the Annual Report. In order to be considered they need to be submitted to the Village Office before 4:00 pm on Monday, June 23rd, 2025.
Please email submissions, questions, or comments to cao@radiumhotsprings.ca
Copies of the Annual Report are available for public inspection at: • Village of Radium Hot Springs webpage: www.radiumhotsprings.ca •
Adrian Bergles Chief Administrative Officer
D I S T R I C T O F I N V E R M E R E :
S H O R T - T E R M R E N T A L U P D A T E
S H O RT-T E R M R E N TA L ( S T R )
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w h e r e s h o r t - t e r m r e n t a l s a r e p e r m i t t e d b y l o c a l
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T E M P O R A RY U S E P E R M I T S ( T U P s ) :
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a r e n o t n o r m a l l y p e r m i t t e d , p r o v i d i n g a
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T h i s i s l o c at e d w i t h i n o u r R e s o r t a n d
To u r i s t R e c r e at i o n z o n e , w h i c h p e r m i t s
S T R u s e
Fish with dad weekend
Columbia Valley Pioneer staff
Families are invited to Lillian Lake on June 14 (from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.) to celebrate Father’s Day weekend with a fishing adventure.
The free event is one of five hosted in the Kootenay region courtesy of local fish and game clubs, fish hatcheries, and community organizations promoting the joy of angling.
No experience is necessary to take part as many events provide hands-on instruction as well as loaner rods, reels and tackle. Event activities include fishing clinics, fly-tying clinics, free rod and tackle loans and stream clean-up projects as well as fishing derbies.
During the Father’s Day weekend, licence requirements for both fresh and saltwater fishing are
waived, eliminating the financial barrier to participation. While Canadian residents are permitted to fish licence-free over the three days, some requirements remain in effect.
The Freshwater Fisheries Society of BC was created in 2003 as a private, not-for-profit organization, funded mainly through freshwater fishing licence revenues.
In partnership with the province, the Society annually stocks six million trout, char and kokanee in 800 B.C. lakes. It also manages special hatchery programs for endangered species including white sturgeon, conducts fisheries research, education and conservation programs, and works to make angling more accessible for all.
To find out more about Father’s Day weekend, visit gofishbc.com.
Land Act: Notice of Application for a Disposition of Crown Land
Take notice that I/We, District of Invermere, from Invermere BC, have applied to the British Columbia Ministry of Water, Land and Resource Stewardship (WLRS), Kootenay Boundary Region, for a Licence of Occupation for Public Works situated on Provincial Crown land located in the vicinity of Invermere.
WLRS invites comments on this application. The Lands File is 4406556. Written comments concerning this application should be directed to the Senior Authorization Specialist, WLRS, Kootenay Boundary Region, at 1902 Theatre Road, Cranbrook, BC V1C 7G1. Comments will be received by WLRS up to July 17, 2025. WLRS may not be able to consider comments received after this date. Please visit the website at http://comment.nrs.gov.bc.ca/ for more information.
Be advised that any response to this advertisement will be considered part of the public record. Access to these records requires the submission of a Freedom of Information (FOI) request. Visit http://www.gov.bc.ca/freedomofinformation to learn more about FOI submissions.
Families are invited to Lillian Lake on June 14 for a Father’s Day weekend fishing adventure. PHOTO ROB MATTINGLEY/GETTY IMAGES
Lillian Lake will be the venue for a Father’s Day weekend fishing event on June 14.
ANNOUNCEMENTS
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
BUYING OR SELLING?
Invermere & Area
cell 250-341-1202
gerry@gerrytaft.ca
James Arthur Widmer July 6, 1993 - June 14, 2015
Time slips by and life goes on but from our hearts you’re never gone We think about you always, we talk about you too We have so many memories but we wish we still had you ‘Til we meet again Code Dad, Mom, Kalie
CHEERS are due for Invermere Glass and their resurrection of the front planters. The flowers are beautiful, and it is wonderful to see a nice floral display welcoming customers to the office. People are like bees and always attracted to flowers! CHEERS from a recent and appreciative customer.
Cheers to the DOI works department for deploying weed whackers into the overgrown town environment. It is good to see the weeds being cut prior to setting seed. That is the only way to control weeds without chemicals. What benefit the gorgeous floral displays if the surroundings are ugly???
Cheers to Jason, Laurie and Brent of Woody’s Plumbing for all the work they completed in my yard so that this senior is prepared for the warm days ahead. Well done!
Huge Cheers to the Copper Point Golf Course team for the excellent job on hosting International Women’s Golf Day this past Thursday! From the moment we arrived, to the end of the evening they made us feel special. It was truly an amazing golf day! Great service, great food and lots of prizes!
Cheers to Ptarmigan Cleaning for the awesome and professional service cleaning our carpets. Extra Cheers to Cade their new employee!
Cheers to Dr.Linda of Life Path Dental for the wonderful care you constantly give to your patients. Your outgoing, friendly personality make it a pleasure to be your patient. Keep up the good work.
Cheers to Deb Fenton. You are a ray of sunshine. I so appreciate your kind words. You validated my feelings. You are a special lady!
FREE to a deserving partyA 32 ft Class A Motorhome located in Invermere, needs very doable repairs Call Larry 403-830-9046 for details. FREE
HOME FOR SALE
Home for Sale 948 Copper Point Way
Windermere BC
Beautiful 3,462 sq/ft open concept with massive central wood fireplace. 6 bedrooms, 3 full bathrooms. Features island kitchen w/ quartz countertops, s/s appliances, patio, master bedroom w/ensuite, laundry room, huge finished basement, double car insulated garage. $850,000. call: 778-526-5216 or 778-220-0350
with
Stick your neck out and be seen by thousands of readers in print and online!
Call Christina at 250-341-6299 ext 101 to promote your business in the Pioneer
1978 KW C500 Dump Truck Big Cam ll 400, 18 spd trans Rockwell diffs big 6 suspension
1979 JD 450C/W Backhoe Bucket/Lumber Forks& Grapple rake. Both in good running condition.
Phone 250-341-5090
Cheers to Marilyn at Huckelberry’s. You know what I am going to order before I say a word. Great service!!
Cheers to Pam, Murray and Thomas of Zen Technology for coming to the rescue of a senior and sending important papers to the car dealership in Cranbrook. All done on short notice. Great service!
Cheers to the youth umpires, coaches and families that made last weekend’s 11U Baseball Tournament a great success! You hit a grand slam!
Cheers to Christina Boucher, you always make my day! You are appreciated!
Cheers to all the staff at McCafe that fill your cone all the way to the bottom
Cheers to Tina at Lambert Kipp Pharmacy for the great, friendly service.
SWIM LESSONS at Fairmont Hot Springs with Rocky Mountain Swim lessons. Book online at: www.rockymountainswimlessons.ca
HOUSE FOR RENT
Small house in Athalmer. $1250/month. No pets. Call Terri - 250-342-5492
ROOM FOR RENT
Chic one bedroom fully furnished contemporary suite in downtown Invermere. Walking distances to lake, all services and amenities. Includes fully equipped kitchen, insuite laundry and walk-in closet . Perfect for professionals or couples. $1850 plus utilities Non smoking, references please.
Available July 1. Email: hogglorna@hotmail.com
& area optionsseniorcare@gmail.com 250-341-5959
Rock & Mud Into Money Mudding, Taping, Drywall 20 years experience in the valley. Immediate Availability Brian Peterson 250-409-5802 anybrain4@gmail.com
K. B. Creations Handyman services, Renovations, Masonry, Plumbing, Drywall & Painting. Please call Kevin 250-688-2897
B. B.’s Home and Design Services Renovations,
or 403-861-8782
Cody
Request for Proposal (RFP)
Position: Clinical Supervisor Organization: Family Dynamix Association
Contact Information: Ute Juras, ujuras@fdx.family
Overview: Family Dynamix (FDx) is seeking a qualified Clinical Supervisor to support staff with case and file management. This role involves facilitating professional learning and development by providing structured, reflective supervision sessions. The selected supervisor will offer guidance to enhance knowledge, skills, and competence through agreed, regular support with staff.
Submission Requirements
• Proposal Format: All proposals must be submitted in Word or PDF format
• Submission Method: All proposals must be submitted via email to ujuras@fdx. family
• Deadline: June 26, 2025
Working Conditions
• This position is in an office environment with time spent at various office locations providing clinical support to staff.
• Services to be provided in person unless otherwise noted by the Executive Director or Director of Program Management.
Key Duties and Responsibilities
• Designs, implements, and evaluates clinical supervision of all Direct Service Staff.
• Provides regular clinical supervision with established timelines.
• Delineates roles, relationships, and expectations of supervision.
• Demonstrates and promotes a commitment to professional growth, development, and accountability.
• Establish safe, trusting working relationships that promotes a learning alliance.
• Works from a trauma informed practice and approach.
• Uses an individualized approach based on the learning needs and style of the supervisee.
• Adheres to a staff centered, strengths-based approach with a culturally and contextually responsive focus.
• Models outstanding communication skills with an aptitude in resolving issues and conflicts.
• Understands and demonstrates the ability to be comfortable dealing with risk assessment and analysis.
• Promotes and maintains standards of confidentiality that comply with FIPPA expectations and FDx policies.
• Operates in congruence with the values and philosophy of the agency.
• Try new concepts to reach challenging goals and persist until goals are achieved and commitments met.
• Addresses challenges and manages change in support of organizational objectives.
Qualifications & Skills
• Master’s degree in clinical counselling or related field is a requirement
• Three years’ successful experience with clinical supervising and coaching.
• Strong knowledge of community resources and services.
• Excellent communication skills, both written and oral.
• Superior problem-solving skills.
• Strong conflict resolution and facilitation skills.
• Demonstrated cultural competency working with Indigenous families and community.
• Solid MS Office skills (Outlook, Word, Excel, and PowerPoint) and able to conduct research on the internet.
• Successful results of a criminal record check.
Organizational Relationships:
Columbia River Headwater Lakes
Pulse C he ck
Submitted by Lake Windermere Ambassadors Week of June 1, 2025
A Water Quality Snapshot from Lake Windermere & Columbia Lake How are our lakes doing this week compared to long-term health goals?
Metric Columbia Lake Lake Windermere MOE Objectives (Lake Windermere)*
Avg. Temperature
Avg. Depth
Averages calculated from all monitoring sites on each lake. *MOE=Ministry of Environment. Objectives have been set for Lake Windermere based on guidelines to protect drinking water and aquatic life. Objectives have not been set for Columbia Lake.
LAKE NOTES
Lake Windermere: The lake likely cooled from last weekend due to stormy weather in the evenings and cooler temperatures over the last few days. Debris from the wind storms likely played a role in increasing this week’s turbidity especially when combined with mountainous snowmelt. Mountainous snowmelt also probably contributed to the deeper lake depth readings
THANK YOU!
Special thanks to this week’s citizen scientists.
WANT TO VOLUNTEER?
Join us on the lake this summer! Learn about water monitoring! We are also looking for volunteer boat captains interested in helping out with our program.
Columbia Lake (250) 270-0348 | columbialakess.com
Lake Windermere (250) 341-6898 | info@lakeambassadors.ca
WITH GRATITUDE
We gratefully acknowledge support for our programing from: Columbia Valley Community Foundation • Columbia Valley Local Conservation Fund • The Watershed Security Fund • BC Gaming Grants • District of Invermere • RDEK • BC Conservation Foundation • REDI Grant • TD FEF • BC Hydro • BC Parks • Canada Summer Jobs • ʔAkisqnuk First Nation • Our amazing community donors!
The Clinical Supervisor reports to the Executive Director or, in their absence, to the Director of Program Management. Purple, purple everywhere in the Columbia Valley.
PHOTO CHERI HANN
FAITH
Celebrating church 100th
By Brent Woodard Windermere Valley Shared Ministry
This month marks the 100th anniversary of the United Church of Canada. On June 10, 1925, all of the Methodist, Congregational Union Churches, and 70 per cent of the Presbyterian Churches of Canada, formed the United Church of Canada. Since then, a few other smaller churches and denominations have joined.
I started attending a United Church in Calgary in 1975. I began serving as a United Church clergyperson in 1983 in Minnedosa, Manitoba.
The United Church has been a good fit for me. I understand it may not be for everyone. My late sister, for instance, found her spiritual home in the Church of the Nazarene. It was a community and culture that suited her well. The United Church was never going to be the right match for her, and that’s okay.
For me, though, there are many qualities of the United Church that I value. Some of the words I use to describe it include: liberal, progressive, inclusive, justice-focused, non-dogmatic, and open. I appreciate its commitment to critical thinking, its willingness to read the Bible metaphorically, and its ability to value ambiguity, perplexity, and uncertainty. It has a this world focus and allows both individuals and the institution itself to evolve.
Of course, the United Church has made its share of mistakes. It was once complicit in colonialism and upheld many aspects of the domi-
nant, oppressive culture. This includes its participation in the Indian Residential School system. The Church has also, at different times, legitimized war, excluded women from leadership, discriminated against LGBTQ2SIA+ individuals, and been blind to racism, both individual and systemic.
But the Church has also shown a willingness to evolve. It withdrew from operating residential schools in 1969 and later issued formal apologies for its involvement in the system, the legacy of cultural assimilation and abuse, and the denial of Indigenous spirituality. A ‘Healing Fund’ was established to support survivors.
The United Church ordained Lydia Gruchy, its first woman minister, in 1936. It has since worked to fully welcome and affirm people across the spectrum of gender identity and sexual orientation. Today, it continues to face and address racism in both its visible and subtle forms.
Since 1965, the United Church has been in numerical decline—a trend shared by many religious institutions across the Western world. It’s uncertain whether the United Church will exist in its current form for another hundred years. But the size or longevity of a tradition isn’t the only way to measure its value.
Personally, I’m very grateful for the healthy, engaged, and authentic people I’ve met through the United Church, and for the way it has allowed—and even encouraged—me to follow truth wherever it may lead. It means a lot to me to belong to a church that does not put spirituality at odds with education and reality.
I give thanks for the United Church of Canada.
LAKE WINDERMERE ALLIANCE CHURCH
While you are with us, you are always welcome to join us. Sunday at 10:30 am 326 10th Avenue, Invermere 250-342-9535 | www.lwac.ca
WINDERMERE VALLEY SHARED MINISTRY (Anglican - United) Sunday Services - 10:30 am 110 - 7th Ave. in Invermere website - wvsm.ca Minister: Brent Woodard 250-342-6644
VALLEY CHRISTIAN ASSEMBLY
Pastor: Justin Furse
Sunday 10 a.m. Worship Service 4814 Highway Drive, Windermere 250-342-9511 | www.vcachurch.net
ROMAN CATHOLIC CHURCH
St. Anthony’s, Canal Flats: Saturday, 4 pm Canadian Martyrs’, Invermere: Sat 5 pm, Sun 9 am St. Joseph’s, Radium: Sunday 11 am Father Francis Dela Cruz | 712 -12th Ave., Invermere 250-342-6167
RADIUM CHRISTIAN FELLOWSHIP
Sunday 10 a.m. Worship service Pastor Wayne and Linda Frater | 250-342-6633 #4, 7553 Main St. Radium | 250-347-9937
CHURCH OF JESUS CHRIST OF LATTER-DAY SAINTS
Worship Service, Sunday, 11 a.m. Sunday School, 10 a.m. President Kendyn Mackensie • Columbia Valley Branch • 5014 Fairway, Fairmont Hot Springs 250-439-9041
CHURCH OF CHRIST (Iglesia ni Cristo)
Worship Service: Sunday 9 a.m., Thursday 7:45 p.m. Chamber of Commerce (Lions Hall) For inquiries: 250-688-1643 250-270-2208 or 250-688-0629 For more info about the church, you can Google
or pasugo.com.ph
The Jessica McMann trio recently performed at Columbia Valley Centre, showcasing their new album ‘Prairie Dusk.’
PHOTO CORTNEY PITTS