PHOTO
Accessible housing project proposed
By Steve Hubrecht steve@columbiavalleypioneer.com
Frustrated by the lack of accessible housing and affordable housing in the Columbia Valley, several local residents have taken matters into their own hands and are planning a new development in downtown Invermere.
The project — called the Invermere Accessible Living Plaza (IALP) — has been a dream for valley resident and Recreation Adapted (RAD) Society founder Tanelle Bolt for years. Bolt, an interior designer by profession and outdoor enthusiast by passion, sustained a spinal cord injury more than a decade ago and has used a wheelchair ever since. Her injury changed her life in countless ways, but has also made her realize how difficult living in a small mountain town can be for those who face mobility challenges.
“If I didn’t have the amazing support system I do, I probably wouldn’t be able to live here,” Bolt told the Pioneer.
Bolt has been frequently frustrated that many new housing developments in Invermere either have fairly minimal accessibility standards, or have full accessibility in only some units. She wondered: why not have all units be fully accessible? Bolt pointed out that those with mobility challenges include not just wheelchair users, but many other demographics, such as seniors, those who have suffered strokes, and just about anyone else who uses walkers.
About a year ago, she and some likeminded people decided to create their own housing project. The
project is still very much in the concept and planning stages, but plenty has been done already, and the IALP group presented to Invermere councillors during a recent committee of the whole meeting. They will also hold community engagement events on Friday, May 9 and Saturday, May 10.
The plan envisions a four-anda-half storey mixed-use residential and commercial building on 7th Avenue (Invermere’s main street), not far from 7th Avenue’s intersection with 4th Street (by Sobeys and the Columbia Valley Centre).
The plaza will include 47 fully accessible rental units (ranging from one bedroom to three bedrooms) arranged around an open courtyard, green space and a lobby, with commercial business space on the lower levels. A total of 20 per cent of the rental units will be offered at 20 per cent below market rental rates.
“The idea is that it’s a place for people not just to live, but to be able to be well, physically, mentally, emotionally, and socially,” said Bolt. “In the past, as an interior designer, I built in barriers (to accessibility) because I didn’t know any better. I want to do better, and this project is a chance to do that.”
The affordable rental units will be for residents caught in the valley’s ongoing housing crisis, explained Bolt. This includes “single parents with children, staff of local businesses, people in transition in life, who may be thinking of moving to Invermere but want to try living here for six months before finding more permanent housing, and many others,” she outlined.
Continued on page 8
Morrison re-elected
Valley Pioneer staff
Incumbent Conservative MP Rob Morrison has been re-elected in Columbia-Kootenay Southern Rockies following yesterday’s federal election.
In preliminary results, Morrison garnered 35,478 votes (50.6 per cent), while Liberal candidate Reggie Goldsbury received 19,623 votes (28 per cent). NDP candidate Kalle
Lins collected 12,581 votes (18 per cent), while Green Party candidate Steven Mafioli took 1.5 per cent of the vote with 1,044.
Independent candidate James Wiedrick finished with 842 votes (1.2 per cent), followed by People’s Party of Canada candidate Laurie Baird with 501 votes (0.7 per cent)
Voter turnout: 70,069 of 97,344 registered electors (72 per cent) in a population of 117,132.
Concept image for the proposed Invermere Accessible Living Plaza.
SCREENSHOT
Columbia
SECURITY SECURITY
RCMP REPORT
Submitted by Sgt. Jeff Witzke Columbia Valley RCMP
On April 21 the RCMP were called by an employee at a local gas station reporting that an elderly person had come to the store looking to purchase Apple gift cards.
The employee suspected the person was being scammed so they called the police. Members were able to locate the elder who was in fact being scammed online. The members provided the person with education on online scams. A shout out to the employee for recognizing this was a fraud.
The RCMP are seeing an increase in online scams where these fraudsters are requesting gift cards such as Apple, Google, Amazon, etc. The RCMP would like
to make the public aware that there are several scams going around with these fraudsters pretending to be local phone companies, Canada Revenue Agency, and even family members and are requesting gift cards for payment. These are frauds! No companies are taking gift cards as payment.
The police have also noticed these fraudsters are targeting the elder population. It’s suggested that if you have any elderly family members, check in and educate them on these scams.
On April 26 the Columbia Valley RCMP were called to a collision between an ATV and a pick-up truck that occurred on Horsethief Road. The operator of the ATV sustained minor injuries and was taken to hospital by a passerby. Police are still investigating the incident.
PHOTO AMANDA NASON
Wildfires top of mind as spring begins
By Steve Hubrecht steve@columbiavalleypioneer.com
Warmer temperatures have crept into the Columbia Valley in recent weeks, the ski hills have closed for the season, and buds are all over the tree branches.
Spring is here, and most residents are out enjoying the extra sunshine, longer daylight hours, and pleasant conditions. But for several locals the arrival of spring is a reminder that summer – and the associated spike in wildfire risk — is not far off.
At least three separate such reminders cropped up during last week’s Invermere council meeting: the new Community Wildfire Resiliency Plan (CWRP) was approved for public release; Invermere FireSmart coordinator Cass Dearlove outlined upcoming brush trimming to reduce fire risk within the district; and a Johnston Road resident sent a letter outlining the fire risk posed by a neighbouring vacant lot with thick, dry underbrush and downed/dead trees. That letter prompted discussion by council on measures Invermere can take to deal with such situations, including the possibility of a bylaw.
The thinning will happen in two “small pockets” of district-owned land in Invermere, explained Dear-
love: the slope heading down to the railway behind the Rocky Mountain School District 6 office building; and a hill slope heading down into a gully to the west of 12th Avenue near the start of Kpokl Road, as well as a very narrow public right-of-way at the bottom of that gully.
The work will be carried out by the BC Wildfire Service (BCWS), and the spots getting trimmed were identified in the wildfire resiliency plan.
The letter, from Roy Healy, outlined that the vacant lot near him is “a huge disaster waiting to happen.” He noted it has been for sale on and off for several years, and in the meantime has become covered in underbrush so thick it is “sometimes knee high” as well as plenty of fallen trees, dead branches and dead roots.
The two windstorms last year only made things worse, outlined Healy in the letter, later adding that the property poses “a very high wildfire risk” to Invermere, in particular the CastleRock and Pineridge subdivisions. He asked council to take action, given the ever increasing amount of combustible material on the property and the ever increasing risk of wildfires each summer.
Councillor Gerry Taft said the lot mentioned by Healy is not the only troublesome piece of private land in Invermere when it comes to wildfire
risk, and wondered what approach is best to deal with these properties. He said the district has an unsightly premises bylaw, which theoretically could be used to address overgrown lots, but wasn’t sure if that went far enough.
“Could we have some kind of process in which we warn the property owners that this presents a fire risk?” asked Taft.
Invermere chief administrative officer Dean McKinley previously worked in the District of Mackenzie in northern British Columbia. A mill closure there resulted in tremendous job losses and residents moving away. That translated to many lots with overgrown grass, explained McKinley. If it got particularly bad,
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The bottom of this gully beside 12th Avenue is slated for brush thinning to reduce wildfire risk.
the District of Mackenzie would send letters to the homeowners telling them they needed to get their grass mowed, and if they didn’t the district would mow it for them and then send them a bill.
“It could be an option here,” mused McKinley.
Councillor Kayja Becker felt that approach could work, especially if the initial letter to homeowners gave information on how to deal with overgrown grass and underbrush and provided a list of contractors who could help deal with it.
A new bylaw, dealing specifically with overgrown properties creating a fire risk, could be another option, added councillor Grant Kelly.
PHOTO STEVE HUBRECHT
VALLEY VIEWS
Prepare now
It’s the wee hours of the night and a soft breeze is blowing through the upstairs window.
In the dream you are having dinner with the family when someone starts pounding on the front door. But nobody gets up to answer it. The racket continues, and you stare at your wife and children who are stuffing their pie holes courtesy of a large swine cooking on a spit.
Seeing nobody put down their forks and knives, you make your way to the door which is bulging inward from all the havoc on the other side. A disembodied voice tells you not to open the door, but you feel compelled to do just that.
You suddenly awaken with heart slamming in your chest. Someone really is pounding on your door and screaming, “Get out! Get out! There’s a fire coming down the hill!
What the hell? Do you have an evacuation plan? Didn’t the district urge you to have one in emergencies like this?
Columbia Valley residents are urged to prepare for seasonal emergencies as warmer weather increases the likelihood of spring flooding and wildfires — the new normal.
First off, ensure that you have a grab-andgo-bag including all of the necessities your family needs in case of an evacuation order. Check the RDEK website at www.rdek.bc.ca and search “emergency kit” for more information. And don’t forget the RDEK’s Emergency Preparedness Fair in the parking lot of Eddie Mountain Memorial Arena on May 10 from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Residents who live in low-lying areas are urged to prepare for potential flooding by moving equipment (and other assets) to higher ground. If you notice a rapid drop in water levels, there could be a problem (blockage) upstream. In this case your public works department should be notified immediately.
After flooding comes the wildfire hazard.
FireSmarting your home is simple and only takes a few hours. For example, moving combustibles away from buildings, raking up pine needles, and pruning overhanging branches can go a long way in protecting your home.
To learn more about how to prepare for emergencies, visit: https://PreparedBC.ca. For flood conditions and advisories, visit: https:// gov.bc.ca/riverforecasta, and for wildfires, visit https://firesmartbc.ca/
Lyonel Doherty, editor
Taxpayer not impressed
About 10 days ago I sent this letter to the Invermere mayor, consulates and various district staff members. Nobody takes the time to answer or at least acknowledge my letter. So I decided to post it here too. It raises a valid concern
I am writing to you to express my concerns about the letter I received regarding the decision the District of Invermere (DOI) made about curbside organic collection.
I was unpleasantly surprised that this will increase our already high taxes with $138 a year when at the same time this will reduce garbage collection to biweekly. So I reached out to Amy Fletcher, environmental planner for the DOI for better understanding how DOI made this decision and if the community was involved in any way. In her emails back to me Amy explained that a survey was conducted and 75 per cent of people
taking this survey agree to this service.
But my surprise got even bigger when I was informed by Amy that only 186 people filled out the survey in question.
According to Statistics Canada in 2021 Invermere had 3917 residents. Let’s say a family dwelling consists of an average of three people. That makes about 1,305 households that your decision will impact. And you have only 139 people that approve that, with some of them expressing all kinds of concerns? That is about 10 per cent of Invermere households, but you went ahead and approved it anyway.
Doesn’t the DOI think that for decisions that involve tax increases or big amounts of taxpayers dollars being spent it needs at least 50-plus per cent of residents to agree?
Continued on page 7
Cheri Hann
Chris Moseley
Lyonel Doherty
Christina Boucher Office
Cell tower concerns unproven: physicist
Whether and where a new cell tower should be located in Invermere has sparked public comments about the safety of cell towers in general and 5G towers specifically. There are a few ways in which we know electromagnetic (EM) radiation can affect human health, and, as a physicist, I think it’s worth looking at how these work.
The first way is that EM radiation directly damages DNA which can lead to cancer. This requires EM radiation of a high enough frequency that it can affect chemical bonds: we call this ionizing radiation. Sunburn-causing ultraviolet light is at a just high enough frequency to be ionizing, and yet its frequency is ten thousand times higher than even the highest frequency in 5G communication. This means that for 5G frequencies to have the same cancer risk as standing out in the sun, you would need to be illuminated with 5G radiation one hundred million times more intense than sunlight, at which point you would instantly vaporize and cancer would be the least of your worries.
That brings us to the second type of health risk, which is that EM radiation can directly heat exposed tissue.
If you stand 10 metres away from a cell tower, the maximum heating from EM radiation will be about a thousand times less than standing in direct sunlight. This is about the same heat you would feel from a 100W equivalent LED light bulb at a distance of about one metre which we consider safe for both short and long-term exposure.
The final way in which EM radiation can affect your health is through “nerve stimulation,” where EM waves generate electric currents in your nerves and can cause a tingling sensation.
The high frequencies associated with 5G are highly unlikely to cause nerve stimulation as these frequencies are absorbed primarily by the skin. Lower frequencies, like those used in AM broadcasts, are the main culprits here since these radio waves can penetrate deep into the body. These are not a concern unless you happen to work on these types of installations where EM intensities are very high, and in any case it appears to be a short-term phenomenon: if you leave the area, it goes away.
Of course, it’s easy to be too reductionist (I’m a physicist: it’s what we do) and miss the possibility of “unknown unknowns” in how EM radiation can affect us. Off the top of my head, I can think of a few other mechanisms ranging in plausibility from “ha ha, no” to “...maybe?” The best evidence we have is consistent with there being neither chronic nor acute effects on human health for EM radiation exposure below regulatory levels. I don’t care whether or where a new tower is built – I don’t live in Invermere, and I’m not associated with any telecommunications company – but this kind of debate should be held on the actual costs/ benefits to the community and not on unsubstantiated concerns about the effect on our health.
Dr. Ryan Thomas, Area F
Decision questioned
Continued from page 6
Looks to me that posting advertising for the survey on Facebook and the local newspaper is not enough. Maybe in cases like that the DOI should consider a local referendum or a letter sent to all households explaining the exact amount of tax increase and why. There is no
problem mailing every residence their utility bill.
Obvious conclusion is that the DOI found another easy way to increase taxes without providing any additional service for this money. This is not acceptable! If that is the way the DOI conducts its business we all should be very worried, Tatyana Deimling, Invermere
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Work goes into accessible housing plan
Continued from page 3
The IALP group includes two more wellknown valley residents — Station Pub owner Ryan Karl is a partner in the project, and Mountain Homes Productions (MHP) co-owner Stephen Raaflaub is IALP’s project manager — as well as Vancouver Island-based infrastructure planner Kelly Miller and architects Melanie Wilson and Mark Ashby.
None of the housing units will be for sale, but the commercial space will be sold as strata to offset the cost of building the project.
“I want to prove that a development such as this can be viable, it can make money,” said Bolt. “That it’s not just developments with minimum
Screenshot shows the plan for the Accessible Living Plaza in Invermere where public engagement will result in community feedback.
accessibility and minimum affordability that can be financially viable, but also those with full accessibility and actual affordability.”
The project is estimated to cost $31 million in total. The group plans to raise 60 per cent of the cost through private investment, 35 per cent through BC Builds low-interest loans, and 15 per cent through grants and subsidies such as the Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation (CMHC)’s Affordable Housing Fund, the BC Builds Community Housing Fund, and the Federation of Canadian Municipalities (FCM)’s Green Municipal Fund: Sustainable Affordable Housing Fund.
Bolt said public response so far has been “overall very positive.”
Invermere councillors seem cautiously keen on the idea, but have pointed to a need to first significantly upgrade Invermere’s water and sewer capacity. This issue has already created several problems throughout the district in recent years, and has slowed several housing developments.
The IALP group will need a zoning amendment for the project’s height, but the land on which they plan to build has already been purchased, and is already zoned for mixed residential and commercial use.
The public engagement sessions will be held at the project site at 403 7th Avenue. The session on Friday, May 9 is from 2 to 4 p.m. and the one on Saturday, May 10 is from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.
To find out more visit www.ialp.ca.
On behalf of the Board and Staff of Family Dynamix, we would like to extend our heartfelt gratitude to our incredible community for their unwavering support during Family Dynamix’s Second Annual Women’s Clothing Boutique. A special thanks goes to Copper Point Golf Club for their outstanding generosity in donating brand-new Nike clothing and shoes, and to Fields Department Store for their invaluable contributions. We are deeply grateful to Royal LePage Rockies West Realty, whose continued support for Family Dynamix’s Women’s Services through the Royal LePage Foundation truly exemplifies their commitment to making a difference.
The kindness and generosity of our community inspire us every day, and we are truly fortunate to be surrounded by such amazing support.
Questions continue on CF housing society
By Steve Hubrecht steve@columbiavalleypioneer.com
In recent weeks several Canal Flats residents have pressed village council with questions about Village of Canal Flats Attainable Housing and Childcare Society (VCFAHCS).
The village vowed to send written responses to those citizens, and made its response letter public last week by including it on the agenda of the Monday, April 14 council meeting.
The response letter outlined that the society was created in 2023 so that the village could apply for affordable housing funding but (by then awarding that funding to a nonprofit society) not be stuck managing a complicated construction project.
The society (which was recently renamed Arvora Housing and Childcare Society) is comprised of former Canal Flats chief administrative officer Richard Wayken (who has been on leave for several months), and local residents Ashley Nielsen and Annette Robinson. It manages the
daily operations of the Headwaters Academy daycare and is the leading entity behind the village’s proposed attainable housing-medical technology hub development (which includes expanding the daycare).
Through its biggest funding agreement with the village, the society has $2.6 million for the proposed project, with the money coming from the provincial government and the Columbia Basin Trust (CBT).
Under another agreement — a right of first refusal agreement – the society cannot sell the land or building for the project without first offering it back to the village for $1.
“The management and selection of developers and contractors is managed by the VCFAHCS,” reads the response letter, adding that from what village staff understand, job postings for the project were published in the Canal Flats community newsletter in July and August 2024, and tenders for contractors were also posted at www.bidcentral.ca.
“The village also understands that LIWO Developments Inc. (LIWO) was selected by the VCFAHCS to develop the attainable
housing and daycare project. All questions regarding the selection of LIWO should be directed to the VCFAHCS,” reads the response letter.
It outlined that going forward, the housing and daycare facilities will be self-funded and not paid for by Canal Flats taxpayers.
On the topic of Wayken’s role in the project and his current absence on leave, the letter indicated the village was not allowed to divulge much information, noting that “as (with) any employer, all employee matters must remain strictly confidential.
Council is not permitted to disclose any employee’s personal situation, or their arrangements made with the Village of Canal Flats.”
At the council meeting local residents in the audience asked more questions.
Former councillor Marie Delorme asked why Canal Flats formed its own housing society when there was already a Columbia Valley Housing Society (CVHS).
Canal Flats mayor Mark Doherty said when village officials talked with CVHS it became apparent the
CVHS “didn’t want to start here (in Canal Flats). They wanted to start up in Invermere with their plan ... so we (Canal Flats) would have been put on the back burner.”
Delorme said the VCFAHCS board should include more people with more diverse backgrounds.
“I agree,” replied Doherty, adding he had suggested just that to the society several times.
Local resident Dave Rae asked for Doherty’s support to join the VCFAHCS board.
Canal Flats interim chief administrative officer Sylvie Hoobanoff explained that “the village — we don’t have any further authority over that society or any other society in the Village of Canal Flats. We really don’t. They can pick and choose who they want independently.”
Doherty echoed Hoobanoff’s comments, but said he was happy to give a personal recommendation for Rae to the society’s board.
“Whether or not they take my recommendation will be up to them, but yes, I’ll make that recommendation. I support you,” the mayor clearly stated.
Young cougar dies after downtown stroll
Columbia Valley Pioneer staff
In last week’s edition the Pioneer reported on a young cougar spotted walking along 13th Street in downtown Invermere. Conservation officers, with help from the local cougar houndsman, had tracked the cat and tranquilized it. They were monitoring its condition with assistance from local veterinarian Mark Zehnder.
Columbia-Kootenay Conser-
vation Officer Sgt. Greg Kruger explained on Friday, April 18 that he was hopeful the cat would recover but he wasn’t certain.
He estimated the cougar to be between seven and ninth months old, and noted that at that age cougars are still dependent on their mothers for survival. The cougar in Invermere has clearly somehow became separated from its mother, although conservation officers had no idea how, where the mother was, or
if she was even alive.
When the Pioneer spoke again with Kruger on Monday, April 21, shortly after the newspaper had gone to press, the young cougar had passed away the previous morning.
“Unfortunately it could not re-
cover,” said Kruger, adding that more detailed assessment revealed the cat to “be even more emaciated and in even worse shape than we initially thought. It is very hard for a cougar kitten to survive without its mother for any length of time.”
Sadly, this young cougar, separated from its mother, died after it was seen in downtown Invermere on Thursday, April. 17. PHOTO MATT HOBBS
OUT OF OFFICE…
Columbia Valley Food and Farm - Get in the Guide!
Columbia Valley Food and Farm is excited to invite local food producers to “Get in the Guide” – The Columbia Valley Grown and Made Online Food Guide can be found at www.foodandfarm.ca (you can find it under the ‘Find Local Food’ tab) and is looking for local growers, raisers, makers, sellers and servers. Food & Farm is hoping that any new producers can submit their entries, or that those with a listing submit any updates by May 15th so that the guide can be shiny and new and ready for the busy season!
This local online guide spans Skookumchuk to Golden; Food and Farm has been maintaining, updating and refining the guide in various formats since 2018 and it is free to list or use the guide. A pamphlet will be distributed around the Columbia Valley directing people to food suppliers
with a map highlighting where local food is grown and raised as well as a QR code directing people to the website. The website is in the process of being updated to create more user-friendly, informative, and engaging site, with (hopefully!) the most up-to-date listings!
If you are interested in learning more and engaging with the local food scene at every level, Columbia Valley Food & Farm is committed to supporting and celebrating local food from farm to plate, through education, collaboration, and advocacy. As an organization, they envision a thriving local food system in the Columbia Valley. Visit the website for more information: foodandfarm.ca
While supporting the local food industry in all facets, Columbia Valley Food & Farm
has also been working on a new and exciting food recovery program that aims to reduce food waste: Nourish. Inspired by the nearby town of Kimberley, which has launched and has been running a very successful food recovery program since 2018 which has recovered over 620,000 lbs of food and produced over 50,000 servings, Nourish aims for similar program success here in the Columbia Valley!
If you are interested in updating your listing or creating a new one, please fill out our web form: foodandfarm.ca/guideregistration/ or email cvfoodandfarm@ gmail.com. Remember, this guide is designed for everything locally grown, raised, made, sold, and served – be a part of the local food scene, from farm to table!
COLUMBIA VALLEY CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
COMMERCE
Thursday, May 1
• 10:00am-12:00am: Cover Letter Writing - Employment Workshop Work BC Offices. Put "Your Best Foot Forward" and join us for our weekly employment workshops. There are regular and on-demand workshops happening every day. Call 250-341-6889 or visit the local Invermere office to learn more and sign-up.
• 10:30am-11:30am: Senior’s Fitness Columbia Valley Centre, $2 dropin.
• 11:30am-12:30pm: Little Lambs Baby Group. Radium Public Library. Stories, rhymes, and songs for babies and their caregivers! Every Thursday!
• 2:00pm-3:00pm. Needles & Hooks. Invermere Public Library. Join us on the 1st & 3rd Thursdays of each month for Needles & Hooks. Bring your current yarn project and meet with other makers! All welcome.
• 3:30pm-8:00pm: Summit Youth Night at the Edge. Edgewater Community Hall Basement. For all youth Grade 6 to 12. Every Thursday join us for snacks, games, food, pooltable, crafts at The Edge.
• 6:45pm: Texas Hold ‘Em Poker Invermere Legion. $30 buy-in.
• 7:30pm: Families Housing that Fits. Zoom meeting with host Ben Postmus. Inclusive and supportive housing in your community. diversefamilyroots@gmail.com
• 7:30pm: Trivia Night Windermere Whitehouse Pub. Host Mandi Cox $3/ person, teams of more than 6 will be split into two groups. Ages 19+ person, teams of more than 6 will be split into two groups. Ages 19+ Friday, May 2
• 10:00am-12:00am: Interview Skills - Employment Workshop. Work BC Offices. Put "Your Best Foot Forward" and join us for our weekly employment workshops There are regular and on-demand workshops happening every day. Call 250-341-6889 or visit the local Invermere office to learn more and sign-up.
• 10:30am-11:00pm: Family Storytime. Invermere Public Library. Join us at the library for stories, songs and a craft! Geared towards preschool age, but all welcome to attend!
• 2:30pm-4:30pm: Creative Connections. CBAL offices. Get Crafty on Fridays this Spring! Learn simple techniques while exploring springthemed crafts and watercolours. Seniors and youth (13-28) are welcome. We are bringing youth and seniors together for some fun and crafting! This program is free and all supplies are provided but registration is required. wvcoordinator@cbal.org or text 250-409-4251.
• 6:30pm - close: Meat Draw and 50/50 in the Legion! Members and guests welcome!
• Saturday, May 3
• 12:00pm-8:00pm: Radius Rhythms & Riffs. Radius Retreat. Tickets: https://www.radiusretreat.com/rhythms-riffs Get ready to crank it up for 2025 because Radius Retreat is taking community connection to a whole new level! If you thought 2024 was a blast, just wait – this year is going to be next-level AWESOME! We’re adding a whole new stage for even more epic performances, plus a fresh new area filled with more food trucks, more vendors, and of course, more bands to keep the good vibes rolling all day long.
• 1:00pm-2:00pm: Author Talk: Philip Seagram. Radium Library. Join author Philip Seagram as he launches his debut publication: No Judgement and Other Busking Stories. Hear the author read excerpts and perform original music from the trip that inspired his book. Copies will be available for sale. All welcome to attend!
• 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, May 4
• 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, May 5
• Wings Over the Rockies Nature Festival. Join us in celebrating our 28th year; 2025 theme: Our Place in Nature. Stay up to date on social media and visit www.wingsovertherockies.org
• 10:00am-11:00am: Senior's Yoga Columbia Valley Centre, Invermere.
$2 drop in, open to all seniors.
• 3:00pm-4:30pm: Buddy Reading. Invermere Public Library. Practice reading aloud one-on-one with a staff member to build skill, confidence and a love of reading! 30 minute sessions at 3:00, 3:30 or 4:00 pm. By Appointment Only!! Contact Invermere Library to sign up.
• 6:30pm: Poker (Chip up for Charity). The Station Pub $50 buy-in. Every Monday.
Tuesday, May 6
• Wings Over the Rockies Nature Festival. Join us in celebrating our 28th year; 2025 theme: Our Place in Nature. Stay up to date on social media and visit www.wingsovertherockies.org
• 10:30am-11:30am: Senior’s Fitness. Columbia Valley Centre, $2 drop-in.
• 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, May 7
• 2:30-3:30pm: Invermere Community Drum Circle. Pynelogs Cultural Centre. Set free your inner rhythm, connect with your community, and let the beat move you! No drumming experience is needed and all the instruments are provided. Professionally facilitated, participants will learn about and experiment with different drums and drumming techniques from all around the world. You'll experience a fun and inclusive drumming workshop. Tickets: https://www.tickettailor. com/events/rhythmbynature/1435696
• 10:00am-11:00am: Senior's Yoga Columbia Valley Centre, $2 drop-in.
• 11:30am-12:00pm: Story Time at the Library. Radium Library. Join us for a story, songs and a craft! Geared towards preschool ages but all are welcome.
• 3:30pm-4:45pm: After School Club. Invermere Public Library. A window of transition time between school and home or extracurriculars. Come colour, bead, play with LEGO, and catch up with friends! Open to all school-aged kids. Drop-off for Grade 2 and up. Please bring your own snacks! One time registration required. Find the form on the After School Club page on our website or fill it out at the library.
• 6:00pm-9:00pm: Wednesday Dinners & Meat Draw & 50/50 Invermere Legion. All welcome.
COLUMBIA VALLEY CHAMBER OF
Resident pleads for action on big stink
By Steve Hubrecht steve@columbiavalleypioneer.com
In recent years the rancid reek of Invermere’s sewage lagoons has unfortunately become as much a rite of spring in the Columbia Valley as finding the first crocus.
The two phenomenons – one pretty and one pungent – tend to happen at roughly the same time of year; even before the snow is fully gone, you start to see purple flowers springing up in the valley’s grasslands and open woods. Shortly thereafter you start hearing Invermere residents turning the air purple as they curse the smelly stench wafting up into the northern reaches of town from the lagoons down in the Athalmer industrial park.
This year is following much the same pattern. Last week the Pioneer
featured a prairie crocus on its front cover. A few days later, during last week’s Invermere council meeting, local resident Matt Roberts pressed council to do something about the stinking lagoons.
Roberts explained that he’s lived on 13th Avenue for 20 years, and that in the first 12 or 13 years he never noticed any smell from the sewage lagoons. But for the past six or seven years, it seems to have gotten worse each spring.
“Even inside my house, with the doors and windows shut, I can smell it,” Roberts told councillors.
“My whole house smells like a Porta-Potty. My daughter’s room smells like methane ... I’d really like to see more investment put into it. Something needs to be done sooner rather than later.”
Roberts said from what he un-
The continued smell of the Athalmer sewage lagoons has some residents saying enough is enough . . . again.
PHOTO STEVE HUBRECHT
UPCOMING COURSES
INVERMERE CAMPUS
• Beekeeping Basics May 3 | $59 +GST
• Intermediate Beekeeping May 10 | $79 +GST
• Advanced Beekeeping May 11 | $99 +GST
• Traffic Control – Recert & Full Certification May 12, 13, 14 | $299 – $499
• Conversation English May 13 – 29 | $89 +GST
• Mediterranean Antipasti and Meze cooking class May 15 | $89 +GST
• Cultivating Culture Lectures May 15 AM & PM | $75
• Understanding the Exposure Triangle (Photography) May 21 - 23 | $85 + GST
cotr.ca/ConEd | 250-342-3210
derstands, the district was trying a new aeration system for the lagoons last year. But, he pointed out, that didn’t seem to stop the spring stink.
Councillor Kayja Becker agreed it is a big issue. She explained the new aeration system didn’t work as planned, and so the district is trying another new aeration system.
Other councillors agreed the foul funk must be addressed as a priority.
Councillor Gerry Taft said it would be good if the district could get data on what is flowing into its sewage lagoons.
“It’s strange in that this never happened up until five or six years ago,” said Taft. “It would be nice to know if this is related to temperatures (climate change making springtime warmer), or did the volume of sewage in our system really
increase?”
“It was fine for so long,” agreed councillor Grant Kelly.
“How did we suddenly get here? We’ve had a population increase in recent years. Is it just that – more people and so more sewage? Is it the equipment? A combination of those?”
Becker wondered if people using much-larger-than normal amounts of bleach during the COVID-19 pandemic may have somehow affected the sewage lagoons.
The acrid aroma was particularly acute in 2023, when local residents turned out in droves to council meetings. That July, councillors made dealing with the stink one of the district’s official strategic priorities, and in October they approved spending nearly $300,000 on the new aeration system.
‘Red Dress’ Day powerful reminder
Columbia Valley Pioneer staff
Seeing a red dress means different things to different people, but to many it triggers sadness, anger, strength, and hope for the future of Indigenous women and girls in Canada.
May 5 is the National Day of Awareness for Missing & Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls and Two-Spirit people.
It is also widely known as Red Dress Day, inspired by Métis artist Jaime Black who started this symbolic recognition by hanging empty, red dresses to represent the victims.
It is reported that more than six in 10 (63 per cent) Indigenous women have experienced physical or sexual assault in their lifetime. This national crisis led to an in-depth inquiry into these females who were murdered or went missing across the country. It brings to mind the ‘Highway of Tears’, a long stretch of Highway 16 between Prince George and Prince Rupert where many crimes have been perpetrated against Indigenous women. Many of the victims were last seen on this highway or found murdered there.
Red Dress Day honours the lives of these women and girls and raises awareness on the importance of improving the health and welfare of First Nations, Inuit and Métis Peo-
Invermere
on the Lake
ples.
The National Inquiry looks into the systemic causes of violence against Indigenous women and girls by delving into social, economic, cultural and historical themes. It also looks at effective ways to reduce this violence and increase safety. This has been done by survivors sharing their stories of experience, resilience and hope.
Traditionally, Indigenous women and Two-Spirit people have been revered as sacred life-givers, but they continue to be devalued and fall prey to violence.
The goal of the inquiry is to allow Indigenous women and girls to reclaim their power and place on the road to ‘truth and reconciliation.’
People are being asked to pay tribute to these women and to wear red on Monday, May 5.
The Shuswap Band is planning a community walk starting at the Invermere courthouse parking lot at 2 p.m. A barbecue will follow.
If you or someone you know is experiencing signs of distress, reach out for help:
• Hope for Wellness Help Line (Indigenous centred): 1-855-2423310
• Crisis Services Canada: (Canada-wide) 9-8-8
• National Family and Survivors Circle: 1-844-413-6649
DISTRICT OF INVERMERE 914 – 8th Avenue, PO Box 339 Invermere, BC V0A 1K0 Tel: (250) 342-9281 Fax: (250) 342-2934
Water Main Flushing NOTICE
Community Water System Flushing will be taking place from April 14th, 2025, until May 26th, 2025, on Weekdays between 8.30 am & 4.30 pm. This necessary maintenance is carried out twice yearly to maintain the quality of our water supply.
During the water system flushing, you may only be impacted for a small period during this time frame as we flush the system in sections, street by street. The water quality is not affected, and regular treatment and testing will continue.
You may experience a slight drop in water pressure. Your water may appear discoloured or cloudy; the discolouration is due to minerals and sediment being flushed from the lines. We advise you to be mindful of running washing machines during this time.
If you experience water discolouration, locate a cold water tap closest to your water meter and run cold water until it runs clear; this may take up to 15 minutes, and you may need to repeat this process.
Any users who experience pressure loss, or persistent discolouration or odour, should immediately notify the Public Works Office to report the issue.
For further information, please call the Public Works Office at 250 342 3215, or visit our web site at invermere.net or our Facebook page - District of Invermere.
The District of Invermere thanks you for your cooperation during this time.
Notice to our
Readers and Advertisers
Due to the recent closure of our press in Calgary, we have shifted our printing operations to a press in St. Albert, AB, near Edmonton. While this shift presents a new set of distribution hurdles, we are doing everything we can to prevent disruption to our distribution schedule, and you can still expect to find the Pioneer delivered to its usual locations each Thursday morning.
Important Deadline Changes
To maintain our current delivery times we must now go to press Tuesday mornings, which tightens our weekly production timeline. This means we must adhere to our ad submission deadline of Friday at 5:00pm for the following week’s edition, and this now includes classified word ads (e.g. Cheers, Garage Sales, etc).
We’ve always aimed to be accommodating — especially with late ads and classifieds — and will continue to do our best. However, we ask for your cooperation in meeting this firm submission deadline as we have a reduced ability to accommodate late submissions.
Thank you for your continued support and we appreciate your understanding during this transition.
Red Dress Day is on Monday, May 5 when missing and murdered Indigenous women and girls and TwoSpirit people will be remembered and honoured.
PHOTO GETTY IMAGES
ENTERTAINMENT
‘Wannabe’ brings some Spice to town
WOWDZIA
Town Hall Meeting Topics:
• Director’s Report by Electoral Area G Director, Roberta Schnider • Rural Transfer Station Optimization Project Overview • Radium Transfer Station Update • Edgewater Post Office Update • Five-Year Financial Plan and 2025 budget as it relates to Area G
By Steve Hubrecht steve@columbiavalleypioneer.com
It’s ‘girl power’ time in Invermere.
In the mid-1990s the Spice Girls — an all-female quinquevirate of English musicians — burst onto the global music scene, churning out a series of supremely catchy dancepop tunes, garnering awards left, right and centre, and rapidly became the biggest selling girls music group of all time before splitting apart in 2000.
The swift rise to international stardom was powered in part by the band’s emphasis on women’s empowerment, female friendship, and female self reliance, often encapsulated in their slogan “girl power.”
Their impact is hard to overstate — aside from the musical acclaim, the term “girl power” was added to the Oxford English Dictionary in 2001.
If you missed out on the initial tidal wave of the Spice Girls craze, didn’t catch any of their subsequent special reunion tours, didn’t see them pull up in black cabs for a surprise performance at the 2012 London Olympics closing ceremony, and simply want to spice up your life with a little 1990s nostalgia, then you’re in for a treat: Spice Girls tribute band Wannabe will take the stage at Ullr Bar on Wendesday, May 14.
“There will definitely be a throwback 90s feel,” said Ullr event coordinator Kristina Hann. “It will be high energy, sassy, great for dancing.”
With the show happening just a few days after the second weekend in May, tickets “could be a very interesting Mother’s Day gift,” Hann told the Pioneer
Given the Spice Girls ‘girl power’ message, Ullr is collaborating with local group Boobs on Tubes to help increase awareness about womencentric outdoor events and initiatives in the Columbia Valley.
The Boobs on Tubes group currently organizes a weekly all-women’s mountain bike ride, and the eponymous Boobs on Tubes mountain bike enduro race at Panorama Mountain Resort (coming up on Saturday, July 5).
But the idea is “also just to generally encourage more women to
get into the outdoors wherever possible,” said Hann.
There will be several Boobs on Tubes representatives on hand to answer questions, and to raffle off a fat tire bike. To enter the raffle, all you need to do is head on up and talk to the representatives. “Even if you’re not into mountain biking, come up, say hi, chat, ask some questions, and learn about the group. You could win a mountain bike,” said Hann.
Wannabe is comprised of five Toronto-based performers and musicians, who — just like the original Spice Girls – started out as a group of friends. The Wannabe women were working on a musical together when they discovered a shared affinity for the Spice Girls and other superstar musicians of the 1990s and 1980s, such as Brittany Spears, Madonna, and Janet Jackson. Inspired, they planned a one-off Spice Girls tribute concert at a Toronto venue. That show was such a hit that it inspired more concerts, then a tour.
The act has since grown more popular and has sold out all over the continent.
Performer Suzy Wilde is Posh Spice in Wannabe, and told the Pioneer the band succeeded initially in part because when it launched it hit a rising wave of 1990s nostalgia. It continues to do well because “the shows are a lot of fun,” said Wilde. “Our show is unique. People who love the Spice Girls love it, for obvious reasons. But people who don’t really love the Spice Girls often like our show too. That’s because while our show is not a parody, there is certainly a bit of a wink in our dialogue, there’s comedy and personality peppered in. We get people who come because their wives dragged them to the show, but they end up having a great time. It’s a spectacle and everyone always has a smile on their face.”
The Wannabe show at Ullr is adults only and starts at 9 p.m. Tickets are $20 and can be purchased at eventbrite.com (Visit the website, and search ‘Wannabe’ or ‘Ullr Bar’).
Hann encourages attendees to dress as their favourite Spice Girl. There will be five ‘best costume’ prizes – one for the best imitator of each of the five Spice Girls (Ginger Spice, Scary Spice, Baby Spice, Posh Spice, and Sporty Spice).
Spice Girls tribute band ‘Wannabe’ will play at Ullr Bar on Wednesday, May 14.
PHOTOS SUBMITTED
Emergency Preparedness Fair planned
Columbia Valley Pioneer staff
If residents want to be prepared for the wrath that Mother Nature might bestow the Columbia Valley this year, they should mark May 10 on their calendars.
That’s when the Regional District of East Kootenay (RDEK) will host its Emergency Preparedness Fair in the back parking lot at Eddie Mountain Memorial Arena from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.
National Emergency Preparedness Week kicks off on May 4 and the RDEK is urging residents to keep that in mind as the valley heads into flood and wildfire season.
This year’s theme is “In it Together.”
“It’s important for people to know which risks we face in this area and what they can do to help not only their family prepare, but their neighbours as well,” said RDEK Protective Services Manager Christina Carbrey.
“It’s important to discuss with those around you the risks that exist and identify those people in your circle who may need extra support,” she added.
The fair will help residents learn which services are available and how they can formulate the necessary emergency plans for their households.
Fair attendees will include: East Kootenay Emergency Management Program, East Kootenay FireSmart Program, Columbia Valley Rural Fire and Rescue Service, Columbia Valley Search and Rescue, FireSmart Invermere, East Kootenay Amateur Radio Club, First Nations Health Authority, Invermere Fire Rescue, Columbia Valley RCMP, Health Emergency Management BC/Interior Health, United Way BC, the Salvation Army, and the Canadian Red Cross.
Many of these services will have emergency response apparatus on display. There will also be games for children, prizes to be won, and invaluable information about keeping your family safe.
Staff will be on hand to help people sign up for the Regional Evacuation Notification System —Voyent Alert! The annual system test is scheduled for Friday, May 9 at 2 p.m.
Together we create ripples of change
Submitted
The week of April 27 – May 3 marks National Volunteer Week. This year the theme is “Volunteers Make Waves.”
It highlights the power, impact and importance of individual and collective volunteer efforts across Canada. Like a wave, volunteering is movement building.
Water is in constant motion, always flowing, shifting, and transforming with every powerful wave or quiet ripple. And so is each volunteer’s contribution toward creating impact in our communities.
Each individual volunteer contribution, big
or small, creates momentum and has the power to influence and inspire, joining a wave of positive change.
Building on the tides sent out before us, waves swell with each generation of volunteers. Our actions ripple out to broader community benefits, like improved well-being, increased social cohesion, and enhanced resilience in the face of change and uncertainty.
Each wave is unique and brings something vibrant and new to the ecosystem.
During National Volunteer Week 2025, we come together nationally, provincially and locally to recognize and celebrate all the ways volunteers make waves in our communities. Together we create ripples of change. And through the power
of our amplified impact, ‘Volunteers Make Waves.’
The sharing of time, skills, empathy, and creativity is vital to the inclusivity, strength, and wellbeing of our communities. By coming together, committing support, and increasing our collective efforts and impact, volunteers contribute exponentially to the quality of life we all strive for.
If you are an individual looking to explore local volunteer opportunities, or a local organization looking for volunteers, head over to ivolunteer.ca and follow the easy instructions.
If the online world is tricky for you or you want to connect in person, please reach out to Joshua Estabrooks, volunteer coordinator for the Columbia Valley at 250-688-8012 or send an email to volunteer@hospicesocietycv.com.
The RDEK is hosting its Emergency Preparedness Fair on Saturday, May 10.
PHOTO SUE COY
Celebrating 20 years offering security
Submitted advertorial
Twenty years is indeed a remarkable feat.
David Read started Valley Hawk Security (VHS) at the tender age of 23, inspired by his late Aunty Sue, who pointed out the lack of security in the valley back in 2005.
He moved to Invermere, started VHS on May 1, 2005 and the rest is history. Through booms, recessions, raising his own family, COVID-19, and beyond, he has built Valley Hawk Security — a unique and
trusted partner for our community.
Serendipitously, his children's first name initials are S, H, and V— who knew the stars would be so aligned?
Over the years, David has become a guardian and peacekeeper for the valley.
Offering security personnel, commercial and residential patrols, and alarm response from Golden to Canal Flats, he is proud to partner with numerous organizations, from RFE to all the local trades, stratas and the RCMP.
BC Timber Sales Kootenay Business Area
2026-2031 Forest Stewardship Plan #1030
The public is invited to review and comment on the proposed 2026 to 2031 Forest Stewardship Plan (FSP) #1030 for BC Timber Sales (BCTS), Kootenay Business Area, which will replace the current FSP #914.
The FSP is a landscape-level plan that identifies how the holder of the plan will be consistent with government objectives for managing and protecting forest and range values through the results, strategies and measures proposed in the plan. The FSP also provides a means to solicit and consider the expectations of the public and stakeholders and to consult with First Nations concerning the use of Crown land and resources. Once approved, the FSP will guide future forest development, including road construction, timber harvesting and silviculture activities.
This FSP applies to BC Timber Sales planning and proposed operations, licences and permits within the Rocky Mountain Natural Resource District and the Selkirk Natural Resource District and includes Forest Development Units covering the Boundary, West Kootenay and East Kootenay regions.
The draft FSP is available to the public for review and comment from April 28 to June 30, 2025, and can be viewed online at: https://tinyurl.com/4ja99fs5
Paper copies of the draft FSP are available upon request by phone, email or in-person at:
Planning Officer
BC Timber Sales - Kootenay Business Area
1907 Ridgewood Road, Nelson, B.C., V1L 6K1
Tel: 250 443-0314
Written comments can be submitted by mail to the address above or by email to tko.FSP@gov.bc.ca. Comments must be received on or before June 30, 2025. Please include “FSP” in the subject line of all correspondence.
His team of dedicated guards is a testament to his outstanding leadership. Whether it’s David, Norm, Abel, or any of his guys, you can rest assured that you're in good hands.
Those who know David know his patient, calm, and easy demeanor. He's also quite the funny guy.
David is more than reliable; he's trustworthy, kind, and a welcome presence, even in the most stressful situations.
He's always the first to respond, be it cleaning out a broken freezer with spoiled meat, responding to a 2
a.m. call, or solving a panic-inducing issue like a loud alarm in the middle of the night during a windstorm.
For 20 years, David has been a shining example of dedication and kindness. We all need someone like him in our lives.
To say we are proud of him is an understatement, and I know many share this sentiment.
Congratulations, David - here's to 20 more.
From Xo Sue-Rose, Sofia, Henry and Vaida
The Read family has something to celebrate after David (left) has been in business for 20 years. PHOTO SUBMITTED
Conservation fund supports wildlife
By Megan Jamison Kootenay Conservation Program
Nine important conservation projects were approved by the Regional District of East Kootenay (RDEK) to receive funding from the Columbia Valley Local Conservation Fund (CVLCF) in 2025.
The CVLCF distributes funding each year to eligible projects taking place in the area between Spillimacheen and Canal Flats.
"First Nations and stewardship organizations in the Columbia Valley area are leading important conservation work," said Kendal Benesh, Local Conservation Fund manager for Kootenay Conservation Program, which partners with the RDEK to administer the fund. "The CVLCF supports a wide range of initiatives, from ecosystem restoration and wildlife habitat enhancement to water quality and quantity monitoring —all of which help sustain our environment and quality of life.”
Monitoring of local water bodies, like Lake Windermere, Columbia Lake, and the Columbia Wetlands is especially important in the context of climate change and is an important component of several of the projects.
The Columbia Lake Stewardship Society will receive funding for the second year of their project to monitor water quality and hydrometrics on Columbia Lake, including working with residents and volunteers to train citizen scientists and improve lake stewardship.
The Columbia Wetlands Stewardship Partners (CWSP) is working to mitigate the loss of open water habitat in the Columbia Wetlands and bench land wetlands in the valley. Living Lakes Canada will collaboratively develop a hydrological model of Wilmer and Boulder Creek watersheds to support sustainable water management decisions and conservation planning. Lake Windermere Ambassadors are protecting the ecological integrity of the lake by addressing immediate threats to its biodiversity and promoting longterm sustainability through monitoring and education.
Projects supporting wildlife in the Columbia Valley include Wildlife Conservation Society Canada’s Bat Habitat Enhancement and Monitoring project to create roost sites for a variety of bat species. The Wild Sheep Society of BC is protecting bighorn sheep populations by testing and assessing the risk of M.ovi transmitting from domestic to wild sheep, informing farmers about the importance of sheep separation, and building connections to promote healthy domestic and wild sheep populations in the region.
CWSP’s Conservation of Biodiversity project supports collaborative conservation including actions to enhance biodiversity hotspots in the Columbia Valley. All these projects support the conservation of local wildlife and their habitats including local bat species, Western painted turtles, American badgers, Lewis’s woodpeckers, and bighorn
Bats are returning
Submitted
Bats are interesting. They make up 21 per cent of mammals and are useful as a natural pesticide. But they are endangered with only one pup a year and unfortunately have a bad rap.
But there’s help.
Bravo to the District of Invermere, in partnership with the Kootenay Community Bat Project, Columbia Basin Trust, Columbia Valley Community Foundation, and the RDEK for installing bat signage on the upper walkway of Dorothy Lake and mounting a bat box between the upper and lower walkways.
If you sit on the bench by the
sheep.
Another project supporting local biodiversity is the East Kootenay Invasive Species Council’s goal to contain and reduce the spread of leafy spurge, an aggressive invasive plant that displaces native vegetation, reduces biodiversity, and diminishes forage for livestock and wildlife.
A new recipient of CVLCF funding this year is Summit Trail Makers Society, who plan to restore the alpine meadow section of the popular Brewer Creek Trail by rerouting the trail away from a sensitive meadow to allow vegetation to regrow, and building a boardwalk on a short and steep section of the trail to prevent further erosion.
Also new this year is a project by the BC Wildlife Federation to restore habitat in the headwaters of the Kootenay River, on a tributary which has been impacted by industry and recreation. This project aims to enhance watershed resilience in the upper Columbia Valley by installing beaver dam analogues, planting willow and cottonwood live stakes along the floodplain, and monitoring the effectiveness of these actions
on improving local hydrologic conditions and habitat complexity.
“Since the Conservation Fund was established, it has been our priority to see the funding directed toward projects that will make a positive impact on the ground. The projects approved for funding this year most certainly achieve that goal, and we look forward to seeing them unfold over the coming months,” says RDEK Columbia Valley Services chair Allen Miller.
The CVLCF was established by the RDEK in 2008 by referendum. Property owners in the service area pay an annual tax of $20 per parcel towards this dedicated fund, which provides financial support to local projects helping to conserve and restore the area’s wildlife and habitat.
To find out if your idea for a conservation project qualifies, or if you have any questions about the fund, contact Local Conservation Fund Manager Kendal Benesh at kendal@ kootenayconservation.ca.
The application intake for 2026 projects will open this fall. For more information on the CVLCF, please visit https://kootenayconservation. ca/columbia-valley/.
DISTRICT OF INVERMERE
NOTICE OF A TEMPORARY USE PERMIT APPLICATION UNDER DISTRICT OF INVERMERE CONSIDERATION
Pursuant to Section 494 of the Local Government Act, public notice is hereby given that the District of Invermere is considering a Temporary Use Permit (TUP) listed in the table below.
The proposal being considered is for a Temporary Use Permit for 93 Street Eats which would allow for the operation of a seasonal, outdoor food service business consisting of auxiliary structures which will remain on site for the term of the TUP. TUP’s can be granted for terms of up to 3 years with one extension of up to 3 years possible.
lake below, in the summer near 10 p.m., you will see the little brown myotis bats come for their first nightly drink.
Thank you to a number of ‘roost stewards,’ land owners and citizen science participants in our valley, who count bats each summer and submit their numbers to bcbats.ca for research.
If you see bats, be curious, but never touch a bat with bare hands. To help this endangered species, put up a bat box or volunteer for the BC Annual Bat Count.
An information session ‘All About Bats’ will be held at the Invermere library on May 14 from 7 to 8 p.m.
The Issuance of the permits will be considered by council at the Invermere District office at 914 - 8th Avenue in Invermere, BC at the corresponding date and time as listed below:
Consideration by COUNCIL - May 13, 2025 at 7:00PM
APPLICATION NO. TUP 25.01 ADDRESS 1010 - 7th AVENUE PARCEL ID 017-310-580
All persons who believe they are affected by the Temporary Use Permit are encouraged to submit their concerns in writing to the Invermere office at 914 - 8th Avenue, Invermere, BC or by email to planning@invermere.net prior to May 9, 2025 at 12:00PM (noon) MST. All submissions should include your name, address, and contact information. All written submissions are public information pursuant to the Freedom of Information and Protection of Privacy Act. All submissions will form part of the public record. Questions about the disclosure of your personal information may be referred to the Corporate Officer at 250-342-9281. For more information regarding the above applications contact the Invermere Planning Department, at 250-342-9281 or by email at planning@invermere.net or can be viewed at the District of Invermere Office between the hours of 8:30 am and 4:30 pm, Monday to Friday, excluding statutory holidays.
PO Box 339, 914 – 8th Ave, Invermere BC V0A 1K0 250-342-9281 | info@invermere.net | www.invermere.net
WVMHA celebrates season with awards
Submitted by Gregg Walker
On Wednesday, April 16 the annual Windermere Valley Minor Hockey Association awards night was held at Columbia Valley Centre. The event represents the culmination throughout the season of hard work and dedication by players, volunteers, officials, and parents. All were deserving of medals.
The award winners
• Mike Warriner Coach of the year: Steve Atkinson
• Female player of the Year: Cara Jaskela
• Dave White Most Dedicated Player: James Smith
• Eddie Mountain Volunteer of the Year: Christine Banham
• George Gibson Most Inspirational Player: Coulter Henyecz
• RCMP Most Sportsmanlike Team: U15
• Senior Official: Brad Cable
• Junior Official; Keegan Kelly
During the ceremony, the WVMHA also recognized several players who have played in this community throughout their minor hockey years and are now graduating from minor hockey. These players were Everett Friesen, Coulter Henyecz, Myles Altmann, Thomas Meena and Saffian Douglas.
The WVMHA teams had another fantastic year of sport, fun, development, and camaraderie. There were 154 players in minor hockey this year, a slight increase from the previous season.
The WVMHA had teams at each age division, from age 5 to 17, and most of these were coed teams. At the U18 level there was a team spe-
cifically for female players.
All the teams had their successes, challenges, and stories to tell at the end of the season. The U7 team reported that these youngest players practised hard and learned a lot this season; how to skate, handle the puck, and participate in their first games in several tournaments.
The U9 team had a successful season, playing many games throughout the season, and playing on full ice for a tournament at the end of the season at home.
There were two U11 teams this season and both competed well in their respective league and tournament games, had fun as a team, and developed enormously. The U13 team was strong this year, going to the provincial championships in Osoyoos in March and winning the Fair Play Award in that tournament. The U15 team had a successful season, bringing in two new players and winning several tournaments. The U18 all-female team brought together players from several age divisions and many communities in the East Kootenay region to play on a team in the Southern Alberta Female Hockey League. The U18 coed team had a full roster of players, including some returning players and one new player, competing in the East Kootenay League and in many tournaments.
In addition to regular programming this season, WVMHA successfully initiated power skating and dryland fitness training programs, as well as goaltending and bodycontact clinics to improve skill and development of players and support healthy lifestyles.
Continued on page 19
Above, Weston Shanks readies himself to sing O Canada at the WVMHA awards night held on April 16 at Columbia Valley Centre.
PHOTOS CHRIS MOSELEY
Players, coaches, volunteers recognized
Continued from page 18
In March this year, WVMHA hosted the NHL/NHLPA First Shift Program, an introduction to hockey for players age 6 to10 years old that have never played before.
The WVMHA would like to thank all who donated or volunteered to raise funds during the season. Special thanks go to those who participated in our annual Purdy's Chocolate sales and to those at Mountain Home Productions and the volunteers and donors who supported fundraising through the 50:50 draws at these special events.
Hockey is a fantastic sport for kids as it promotes physical fitness, teamwork, and discipline. The fastpaced nature of the game helps improve cardiovascular health, coordination, and agility. Playing hockey teaches children the importance of working together towards a com-
mon goal, fostering a sense of camaraderie and cooperation. The sport also instills discipline and perseverance as kids learn to practise regularly and strive to improve their skills. Beyond the physical and mental benefits, hockey provides kids with an exciting way to stay active and make new friends.
Registration for the 2025/2026 minor hockey season will open in early May, with early bird rates available until July 1.
The Windermere Valley Minor Hockey AGM will be held on Wednesday, May 28 at 6:30 p.m. at the Invermere Fire Hall. Come down to see what the association is planning for next season.
Information on registration, age divisions, coaching, safety, and much more can be found at windermerevalleyminorhockey.com.
Gregg Walker is president of the WVMHA.
Above: members of the U7 team are about to receive their season medals. Top right: WVMHA President Gregg Walker announces the U15 team as winners of the RCMP Most Sportsmanlike Team award presented by RCMP Cst. Danny Butler. Middle right: members of the U11B team stand at the awards table. Bottom: The U18 female team.
PHOTOS CHRIS MOSELEY
Emery, Joan
It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Joan Emery, who passed away at the Invermere hospital on April 20, 2025.
Joan fought a long hard fight against cancer, yet had such a positive outlook and was planning one more year in her flower gardens. Sadly it is not to be.
She is survived by her loving husband Wayne Emery, her son Bryan, stepkids Tammy and Todd (Angela), her sister Gladys, brothers Bert and Ralph, eight grandkids, four great-grandkids, and a very special niece Debbie.
Joan was predeceased by her parents, two brothers, her beautiful daughter Suanne, and one grandson, Byron Perrault.
We would like to thank the doctors and nurses for their kind care of Joan.
There will be a celebration of Joan’s life and the spreading of her ashes at a later date.
OH FOR JUST ONE MORE HUG!!
& Area
250-341-1202
Al-Anon. Are you concerned about or affected by someone else’s drinking? For more information or to speak with someone from our fellowship, please call 250-878-2448 or 250-342-8392
Alcoholics Anonymous. If alcohol is causing problems or conflict in your life, AA can help. All meetings are at 7 pm. Columbia United AA, Invermere: Saturday, Sunday, Tuesday and Wednesday at the BC Service Building, South End624 4th St. Invermere. Please call 250-342-2424 for more information or to speak with someone from our fellowship.
IMPORTANT NOTICE
Deadline for submitting a Cheers is now Friday at 5:00pm for the following week’s edition.
Cheers to Steve Bush for organizing extra basketball games so our Valley kids can keep playing the game they love!
Cheers to the three nice people at Zen Technologies for being so nice, friendly and helpful to me when I had problems with my computer.
Cheers to Mary O. for your help. You scored a great deal for me !!!!
Bouquets of joyful cheers to Jacqui and our server Mae at the Black Forest Restaurant, along with our dear friends who joined us to celebrate our “big” birthdays in April! CR & GC. Cheers to the two siblings who were playing the piano at the legion on Wednesday April 23rd. It was a pleasure to sit, relax and listen to the beautiful melodies. You both are very talented!!!!
Cheers to Atkinson Promotions for the incredible merchandise sale and giveaways. Made our family very excited to wear awesome brand name clothes!
In Loving Memory of
James “Jim” Isaac Jackson
Jun. 11, 1935. High Level, AB. - Jan. 28, 2025. Salmon Arm, BC and
Donna Jacoba Jackson (Zwiers)
Dec. 3, 1940. Edson, AB. - Nov. 1, 2019. Kelowna, BC
Donna and Jim met in Lethbridge. At the time Donna was working at the home of Mrs. Captan. On her usual bus ride to work one morning, an attractive young man caught her eye. Surprised when the good-looking guy got off at her stop, she then became annoyed to find him still following her as she walked up to the door of her work. Donna turned around to then let young man know that this was very inappropriate! The now embarrassed young man was barely able to sputter out that this was his mother’s home. Two years later all was forgiven, and they were married in Edgewater, BC on June 11, 1960.
Donna and Jim spent their retirement decades in Malakwa, BC. Giving to their community, Jim was a volunteer fireman, and Donna organized the Unitarian Church thrift store. Jim stayed long enough at the fire hall to become Chief, and then the unofficial mascot. Donna will be remembered for her carpentry, baking and fabulous garden.
They will be sadly missed by friends and family. They leave behind their children, Paul, Shawn, Kathy, grandchildren and great grandchildren.
Their remains will be interred at the Edgewater Cemetery on May 24, 2025. A gathering will follow at 1:00 pm, at the Edgewater Community Hall. Open to all old friends.
Cheers to Arnie G. for your thoughtfulness and willingness to help me. I appreciate it.
Cheers to the people who, during an election, respect the diverse opinions and values of voters and refrain from stealing or vandalizing election signs of parties they do not support. Cheers to people who support a strong democracy based on choice and the freedom to make that informed choice.
Gals Animal Rescue would like to say CHEERS to all the people that donate their bottles to us.
A huge Cheers to Wildwynd Logging for helping make the Windermere Hall firesmart. Bringing in your machine and truck to dig out the juniper bushes saved us countless volunteer hours and made the hall much safer for the upcoming fire season. Cheers to Jay and Terry for your professionalism.
Cheers to the flaggers on the Radium Hill, you make my day with all the smiles and waves, you’re the happiest I have ever seen!! Cheers for your amazing demeanor and keeping us all safe.
Cheers to Jackpine for taking our soccer team to the Cranbrook 5v5 tournament. We enjoyed every moment and appreciate all the time you (and Caden) have put into our training. Thank you from all of us for this fun opportunity.
Gals Animal Rescue would like to say CHEERS to Hopkins Harvest for the generous donation from their adult easter egg hunt.
A big Cheers to Heart of the Valley Kitchen for the fabulous meal Sunday night and to the great servers. It was a great treat.
818 - 12th Street, Invermere
We are looking for a dynamic, caring, joyful, energetic, creative, physically fit individual to work full time with children of all ages.
The candidate will be with the 5 and up group during the summer, leading various activities and going on out-trips.
Having an ECE or ECE A, is an asset but not required. Training will be provided. We have an excellent compensation package.
Please email Charlotte at dragonflydiscoverycentre@gmail.com
Cheers to Evan at VIVID Painting for sponsoring our soccer team at the Cranbrook tournament. It was an awesome experience. Much appreciated.
Cheers to my sweet friend Ricky Meyer for dropping off homemade jam. It is yummy!
Cheers to Ken Mitchell for his quick, professional work installing the new infield at Wittman Field in Edgewater- just in time for baseball season! Let’s play ball!
Cheers to my friend, Gwen, for picking and delivering to my house a pretty bouquet of purple crocus and shooting stars flowers. They made a lovely centrepiece for our Easter dinner. You are very kind.
Yard Sale
Lots of items 1610-10 Ave, May 3, 10 am
Yard Sale
Saturday May 3rd, 9-3. 350 Borden St. Athalmer. (Just down from Rona.) Toys, books, clothes, household goods, etc. Rain or shine.
THE HEARTFELT COMPANION Services for Seniors. Since 2014 we’ve provided kind and compassionate non-medical care, transportation to Cranbrook, overnight care, meal prep, grocery shopping and more. Excellent local references. 250-341-5683
Heartfeltcompanionservices.com
Invermere on the Lake
DISTRICT OF INVERMERE 914 – 8th Avenue, PO Box 339 Invermere, BC V0A 1K0
Tel: (250) 342-9281 Fax: (250) 342-2934
EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY
Position: Gardener I
Department: Public Works
Status: CUPE – Seasonal
Classification: Gardener I
The District of Invermere has an opening for a Gardener I position in the Public Works Department.
Under the general supervision of the Public Works Supervisor and under the daily direction of the Gardener II, the Gardener I performs horticultural tasks in construction and maintenance of District parks, landscapes, floral displays and shrubs. The position involves physically demanding work in all weather conditions. The position is responsible for the care and maintenance of seasonal flower beds and pots, shrub beds, rock gardens as well as hedge trimming.
TYPICAL DUTIES AND REPONSIBILITIES:
• Performs a wide variety of horticultural tasks across all District of Invermere properties including, propagation, design and planting, plant health care and integrated pest management, pruning, irrigation and weed control.
• Plans and completes flower bed preparation and planting.
• Performs flower and shrub bed maintenance
• Planning and conducting work to meet maintenance expectations efficiently and safely.
• Presents and maintain a professional, positive and tactful attitude when dealing with internal and external stakeholders.
• Provides excellent services to the community, ensuring professional, friendly, and efficient interactions with community members
• Ensure all work sites are set up and work procedures conducted in accordance with all District Policies & Procedures and WorkSafe Regulations.
• Providing training, technical guidance, and motivation to assigned work crews.
• Inspecting and assessing plant health needs, making recommendations, and completing corrective actions.
• Plan and conduct work efficiently, meeting maintenance expectations within budgetary requirements.
• Assist other staff and municipal departments, and perform related work as required.
This position is within C.U.P.E. 2982 bargaining unit. The current wage rate for this position falls within the range of $33.72 - $34.73 per hour plus benefits as detailed in the Collective Agreement. The Gardener I position is expected to work 40 hours per week Monday to Friday from 8:00 am to 4:30 pm from April 15th to October 15th each year. Some weekend work will be required.
Persons interested in applying for this position are invited to submit their resumes by 2:00 pm on Thursday, May 8th, 2025 to:
Kindry Dalke, Director of Corporate Services District of Invermere 914 – 8th Avenue
Box 339
Invermere, BC V0A 1K0
Email corporateservices@invermere.net
We thank all applicants for their interest; however, only those considered for an interview will be contacted.
STAND ABOVE THE CROWD!
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
The Hearing Loss Clinic has become an integral part of my family’s healthcare team. As an athlete and coming into the medical field myself, I can appreciate how each aspect of our health contributes to the bigger picture. Hearing health is an important part of how we interact with the world, which correlates to so many other parts of our humanity. It’s all connected. The Hearing Loss Clinic team really understands this and it shows in their passion for what they do and how they treat their patients, from the moment someone walks in the door to the final testing and fitting. Dr. Hayley Wickenheiser, 4-time Olympic Gold Medalist Hockey Canada
