Columbia Valley Pioneer August 7, 2025 by Columbia Valley Pioneer

Free Bike Valet

Beach gets additional security patrols

Columbia Valley Pioneer staff

Ongoing vandalism, littering, and after-hours parties prompted the Regional District of East Kootenay (RDEK) to hire additional security at Windermere Beach on the August long weekend.

“We have had security in place on roving patrols throughout the summer months since these issues arose last year and found it did make a difference on site over the Canada Day weekend,” said RDEK general manager of operations Grayson Mauch, adding they saw late-night parties involving large groups consisting primarily of young people.

“We are grateful for the ongoing exceptional efforts of our park contractors and staff who’ve been doing a tremendous job of cleaning up the garbage and debris left behind, and to the neighbours who’ve also been dealing with this unfortunate situa-

tion,” he noted.

Regular security patrols will continue throughout the summer months as they have been since spring.

The RDEK has requested increased enforcement from the Columbia Valley RCMP expressing serious concern, not only about the impacts on public spaces, but also on neighbouring residents who have had to endure these issues on their private property.

“The ongoing lack of respect for this community, the neighbours, and public property is unacceptable,” said Area F director Susan Clovechok.

“While we are doing what we can to discourage this activity at the public beach, we continue to appeal to the public – no matter your ageto respect the park and its rules, respect the neighbours, and stop this unnecessary behaviour.”

The RDEK established additional security patrols at Windermere Beach on the long weekend.

FILE PHOTO

Mudslide closes part of road

Columbia Valley Pioneer staff

Last week the RDEK reported a partial road closure due to a mudslide on Horsethief Creek Forest Service Road (FSR) at approximately the 40-kilometre marker.

This road is a main access to Lake of the Hanging Glacier and will be closed until further notice. Crews have been working to get signage orga-

nized at the intersection of Horsethief Creek FSR and Westside Road, and the public should stay off this upper section of the road until it has been reopened.

While there were people on the upper side of the mudslide, no one was injured and everyone is safely out of the area, according to the RDEK. At least one vehicle will need to be recovered once the road reopens.

Lightning the way - Another brooding storm grumbles its way past Windermere Beach, complete with finger lightning.

PHOTO CRISANNA MACLEOD

Columbia Lake resident eyes buoys

By Steve Hubrecht steve@columbiavalleypioneer.com

As the Regional District of East Kootenay (RDEK) begins tagging the ever-increasing number of mooring buoys in Lake Windermere, residents living on the shores of Columbia Lake are pointing out that the issue affects their lake as well.

Columbia Lake resident and Wildsight Invermere branch president Tracy Flynn was at last week’s Canal Flats council meeting, explaining that once the RDEK finishes tagging the buoys on Lake Windermere they will also do so on Columbia Lake. She was quick to add, however, that “given the amount of buoys on Lake Windermere, I don’t know when they’re going to make it here (to Columbia Lake).”

Flynn also warned councillors “there’s an active push from people coming down to Columbia Lake. They’ve shown up at our community, seeing if they can drop in buoys randomly. That may happen more if the enforcement (of unregistered mooring buoys) at Lake Windermere picks up.”

Canal Flats mayor Mark Doherty agreed that it will be some time before RDEK enforcement of buoys arrives on Columbia Lake “just because they’re overwhelmed on Lake Windermere” and added that he hasn’t personally seen any mooring buoys popping up on Columbia Lake.

“There is certainly proliferation on the west shore (of Columbia Lake). They’ve probably doubled in the last couple of years,” said Flynn.

Doherty said if these buoys springing up are unregistered, they will be caught by the RDEK when it starts tagging on Columbia Lake.

Anyone asking at the Village of Canal Flats of-

fice about setting up mooring buoys is told they aren’t permitted, added Canal Flats interim chief administrative officer Sylvie Hoobanoff. “I have been asked over the year (about buoys) numerous times, but it hasn’t actually been an issue,” said Hoobanoff. “Most people listen. We did have one (noncompliant buoy) and we dealt with it through bylaw enforcement.”

Flynn also asked about community docks within the village.

Hoobanoff said they are allowed, and that there is one in particular that did not receive a necessary permit from the provincial government, and which the village now needs to make

sure gets removed.

“It’s a dock that’s been there for a long time, so to be frank, it isn’t a heavy topic for us right now. We know we need to address it, but it just hasn’t come to the top of the to-do list. But we do need to tackle it,” said Hoobanoff.

During the same meeting, Canal Flats council received a letter from the Lake Windermere Ambassadors expressing concern about shoreline development, unauthorized docks, and the increase of noncompliant buoys. The letter urged consistent enforcement among regional and municipal governments against such buoys and docks.

- The District of

is hosting a number of summer events including a recent movie on

Some Columbia Lake residents are awaiting a similar buoy-tagging system that Lake Windermere will undergo.

PHOTO SYD DANIS

Movie in the Mountains

Invermere

Kinsmen Beach

PHOTO CORTNEY PITTS

Crime time

The 2024 police-reported crime statistics in Canada are promising to the BC government, but ask anyone on the street and they will lament that much more needs to be done.

The province’s Crime Severity Index (CSI) fell 11 per cent last year (the lowest level in six years), according to the Ministry of Public Safety and Solicitor General.

Minister Nina Krieger attributes this to efforts from the province, local governments, police, community organizations, and businesses. She adds that crime reduction is a direct result of focused investments in policing, mental health (and addictions) support, housing and crime prevention initiatives. For example, targeted enforcement against repeat violent offenders. She pointed out that violent firearm offences dropped by 20 per cent, while homicides fell by 24 per cent, followed by robbery (down eight per cent).

But the minister is right when she admits that if anyone has been a victim of crime, these statistics do not make them feel better or safer. That’s why more efforts are needed to enhance public safety.

In the StatsCan report, the country’s CSI (which measures volume and severity of crime) only fell by four per cent. This was primarily influenced by a decrease in non-violent crime, including property and drug offences. Violent crime only saw a decrease of one per cent. According to the statistics, there were 788 victims of homicide in 2024 (eight fewer than in 2023). Police-reported hate crimes dropped by one per cent, while youth crime fell by four per cent.

Hamlet regions like the Columbia Valley, no matter how beautiful, can never escape big city crime. Just recently the RCMP reported the armed robbery of four occupants of a vehicle. The suspect pointed a gun at the driver and demanded the keys and cell phones.

In the first quarter of 2025, the local RCMP saw a significant drop in calls for service (from 703 in the first quarter of 2024 to 615 this quarter). They also saw a reduction in property crime, but an increase in online fraud (against seniors), which is a concerning trend of late.

No matter how insignificant, residents are urged to report any suspicious behaviour when it happens. As for fraud, never give sensitive information to anyone online or over the phone.

Lyonel Doherty, editor

Reader respectfully disagrees

I write to respond to the letter recently submitted to RDEK by Michella Pritchard and presented in the July 24 edition of the the Columbia Valley Pioneer

I agree with some points made by Pritchard and respectfully disagree on other points, including the primary thesis that current fees for temporary use permits (TUPs) to operate short-term rental (STR) properties are unfair and not in the public interest. For context, I am a long-time permanent resident in the Windermere area (Timber Ridge) on the east side of Lake Windermere, where STR property density has increased by an order of magnitude in recent years and continues to do so.

During this short interval, six STR operations have commenced within a two-block radius of

our home, and there are many more within the broader community. As homes have occasionally been listed for sale over the past 15 years in the community where I live, most have been converted at purchase to STR properties.

It is noteworthy that all of the STR properties surrounding my home are owned by investors who live outside of BC, and this is commonplace across the region, meaning that associated net revenues largely transfer out of the region. These STR properties are unstaffed micro-hotels generally operating within a residential single unit zoning (R1) community, where business operations are indicated not to be permitted, with the exception of limited home-based businesses undertaken by residents.

Continued on page 7

Lyonel

A group relaxes in a bath house at Radium Hot Springs in 1916. PHOTO WINDERMERE

More than enough consultation on STRs

Continued from page 6

The density of STR properties matters — one or two of these operations has manageable impact, if guests are well-behaved (as is usually, but not always the case). As the density increases, the impacts also increase, sometimes exponentially.

Referencing TUP fees, Pritchard states that “… this significant new fee was implemented without meaningful consultation with the property owners who shoulder the vast majority of the tax burden in this region” and that “these same homeowners — who have invested in the valley for decades — are now being unfairly targeted with an additional cost that will ultimately be passed on to visitors …”

“I am surprised by the accusation that the TUP fee structure was implemented without meaningful consultation.”

- Dale Johnson

This is incongruent with the reality in my community, where investors have purchased homes within the past 15 years and converted them to STR properties. Part-time residents do not pay the TUP fees as is suggested — only property owners who choose to operate STR properties pay the fees.

I am surprised by the accusation that the TUP fee structure was implemented without meaningful consultation. I twice attended during two rounds of public and stakeholder consultation sessions on STR

policy and criteria that the RDEK hosted from 2021 to 2023. While I am not fully satisfied with the STR policy that was developed during and following the consultation process, I feel that the RDEK’s consultation process was reasonably robust.

Pritchard states that “It must be recognized that these homes have never been, and will never be, viable long-term rentals.”

I agree that the higher-end STR properties would not qualify as affordable rental housing. However, there is long-term rental demand for many of the STR properties, as evidenced by three of the six STR properties surrounding my home.

Demand in our region for STR properties drops sharply during the winter months and, at different times, the aforementioned three STR property owners contracted with long-term renters for half of the year to improve occupancy. None of these owners continued with this process even though the demand exists. Rather, the BC Residential Tenancy Act is so onerous for landlords that the STR property owners elected not to cater to long-term renters.

In my view, $1,500 is a very modest fee for a three-year TUP. At average STR rental rates, this is approximately equivalent to revenue from one night of rental operations per year.

My hope is that the TUP fees cover RDEK’s increased costs (fully burdened) for staffing and administration of the STR policy, as I have no wish for these costs to be covered by general taxpayers.

Pritchard comments that “…

RDEK should focus its energy on streamlining the permitting process.” It is unclear to me how STR permitting could be much more streamlined, as it is almost a rubberstamping process at present. There is no pre-approval inspection of STR properties or meaningful due diligence on property owners — submission of a credible application form and payment of a fee does the job.

Finally, I agree with Pritchard that more could be done in bylaw monitoring and enforcement, and creating more favourable conditions for housing construction.

In my view, the RDEK’s STR policy is flawed, and I have been communicating separately with the RDEK on this.

Dale Johnson, Invermere

Some local readers agree there was adequate consultation on STR policy in Invermere. GETTY IMAGES

Residents encouraged to register for PC

Submitted

East Kootenay doctors are encouraging residents without a primary care (PC) provider to register with the Health Connect Registry, a provincial service that helps connect patients with primary care providers in their community.

You can also register family members or a person in your care.

The Health Connect Registry is a vital tool that helps health care teams better understand and plan for local needs, strengthening access to primary care across the region.

“If you don’t currently have a family doctor or nurse practitioner, signing up for the Health Connect Registry is a key first step toward accessing care,” said Dr. Ashlee King, physician lead for the East Kootenay Division of Family Practice.

“Even if you don’t need a family doctor immediately, you should still register and secure a spot on the waitlist. The registry helps us understand the needs across our communities, informs physician recruitment strategies, and allows us to match people with available primary care provid-

ers in a more organized and effective way.”

Registration takes less than five minutes and requires the following information:

• Personal Health Number from your BC Services Card

• Home address

• Email address and phone number

Once registered, individuals will remain on the Health Connect Registry until a provider becomes available in their community, at which point they will be contacted with information on next steps.

While matching generally follows a firstcome, first-served process, priority is given to individuals with urgent health needs.

Residents can register online at www.healthlinkbc.ca/find-care/health-connect-registry.

If you need help with your registration or have questions, you can call HealthLink BC at 8-1-1 for support. Translation services are available in over 130 languages. For the deaf and the hard of hearing, contact 8-1-1 using Video Relay Services (VRS) or Teletypewriter Relay Services (TTY) at 7-1-1.

Illegal dumping costly at $10K

Illegal dumping at the Fairmont transfer station has prompted some changes on site.

Regional district staff report that illegal dumping of green waste has resulted in lock blocks and chains being installed.

NOTICE OF SHORT-TERM RENTAL TEMPORARY USE PERMIT APPLICATIONS UNDER RDEK STAFF DELEGATED CONSIDERATION

In 2025, the total budget allocated to illegal dumping cleanup at rural sites in the Columbia Valley was $2,500. To date, the Fairmont transfer station has cost approximately $10,000 in cleanup efforts and added site controls.

Additional signage has been added to the site to make the public aware of these changes.

Pursuant to Section 494 of the Local Government Act, public notice is hereby given that the RDEK is considering the Short-Term Rental Temporary Use Permits (STR TUP) listed in the table below. Issuance of the permits will be considered by the delegated staff person at 10:00 am on August 20, 2025 at the RDEK office at 19 - 24 Ave S in Cranbrook, BC. PERMIT

STR 66-254431 Water Street (Wilmer)

012-021-849 4

STR 72-255173 Hot Springs Road (Fairmont Hot Springs)005-399-378 10

STR 85-254947 Merlo Road (Windermere) 011-893-303 10

STR 98-25#1 – 1492 Akiskinook Road (Windermere) 006-452-639 4

STR 103-25#10 – 1856 Greywolf Drive (Panorama) 025-412-621 10

STR 109-254735 Wilmai Road (Windermere) 013-469-665 10

STR 110-25#31 – 4926 Timber Ridge Road (Windermere)031-852-076 8

STR 111-254878 Fairmont Creek Road (Fairmont Hot Springs)005-401-054 10

STR 152-245178 Riverview Road (Fairmont Hot Springs) 011-382-571 10

All persons who believe they are affected by any of the Short-Term Rental Temporary Use Permits are encouraged to submit their concerns in writing to the RDEK office at 19 - 24 Ave S. Cranbrook, BC or by email to planningdept@rdek.bc.ca prior to 4:30 pm on August 14, 2025. All submissions should include your name and address. Please be advised that any written submissions will become part of the public record. The permit is available for viewing by email request, on the RDEK website (www.rdek.bc.ca/meetings_events/publichearings) or at the RDEK Offices between the hours of 8:30 am and 4:30 pm, Monday to Friday, excluding statutory holidays. To search for properties online, visit: www.rdek.bc.ca/departments/mapping. For more information contact planning department staff at planningdept@rdek.bc.ca or 250-489-2791. All written submissions are public information pursuant to the Freedom of Information and Protection of Privacy Act. All submissions will form part of the public record. Questions about the disclosure of your personal information may be referred to the Corporate Officer at 250-489-2791 or 1-888-478-7335.

The Health Connect Registry encourages people to register if they don’t have a family doctor. SUBMITTED

Columbia Valley Pioneer staff

More action sought on unsightly premises

By Steve Hubrecht steve@columbiavalleypioneer.com

Derelict cars and unsightly premises have dogged some parts of Canal Flats, on and off, for decades.

The issue was a big topic in the village a decade ago, the subject of numerous complaints, council discussions, and even a petition by local residents. Bylaws were amended and bylaw enforcement efforts stepped up at the time.

But some residents feel the problem was never really resolved, and the issue has continued to crop up over the years.

Most recently, it was brought up during last week’s council meeting by councillor Paul Marcil. It wasn’t the first time Marcil has touched on the topic since winning one of two vacant council seats during a byelection last summer, and it prompted discussion among other councillors and village staff.

“If you haven’t done it in two weeks, then we start threatening a fine. It’s usually taken care of by then.”

- CAO Sylvie Hoobanoff

“We’ve still got yards full of abandoned boats and derelict vehicles and stuff. I know we’re not going to get (community enhancement officer) reports on each individual yard, but are we making any headway?” asked Marcil.

“Yes, we’re making some headway,” replied Canal Flats interim chief administrative officer Sylvie Hoobanoff. “It’s always slow and hard and complicated ... to be honest, if it’s (the old boat or vehicle) on the boulevard we ask them to move it into their yard. Because we can’t — without taking them to court — ask them to get rid of these kinds of vehicles. We don’t have the budget or manpower.”

The ‘boulevard’ Hoobanoff referred to is not a street or road, but rather the piece of land (usually grassy) lying between a road and a private property line.

“As long as it’s (the old boat or vehicle) screened and it’s not a park-

ing lot, we kind of let it go,” elaborated Hoobanoff.

Marcil said having a five-foot fence along a property line to screen such old vehicles “would be helpful” and asked if village staff could follow up and make sure these kinds of fences are in place.

Hoobanoff noted that the bylaw doesn’t in fact mention five foot tall fencing, but merely says “screened.” She pointed out the term is vague and, unfortunately, subject to a good deal of interpretation.

“It is an ongoing battle,” said Hoobanoff.

Also on the topic of unsightly premises, councillor Andrew Weitzel asked if property owners should be mowing the boulevards next to their homes.

Hoobanoff replied it is indeed the responsibility of homeowners to maintain boulevards adjacent to their houses.

The Village of Canal Flats has stepped in and does in fact mow and otherwise maintain some boulevards that were being neglected by property owners, but this is not exactly fair, she outlined.

“It is on my to-do list to refine the unsightly premises bylaw to be more specific about boulevards and screening and things like that,” added Hoobanoff.

Marcil said the area around the intersection of Grainger Road and Burns Avenue deserves particular attention. “It would be a good thing to do, just for village visitors,” he said.

Weitzel asked more about homeowners not bothering with their boulevards, wondering what kind of action the village takes against them.

“We’re very lenient,” replied Hoobanoff. “We’re not asking for manicured green lawns.” She explained the village first sends a letter to the homeowners, giving them 30 days to deal with the boulevard. If that doesn’t result in action, then after the 30 days the village sends another letter giving the homeowners two weeks. “If you haven’t done it in two weeks, then we start threatening a fine. It’s usually taken care of by then. We rarely (have to) issue a fine,” said Hoobanoff.

Request for Proposal

Lake

Louise Community

Fire Guard

Lake Louise Community Fire Guard

Parks Canada is inviting proposals to conduct phase two of a mechanical tree removal project near the community of Lake Louise in Banff National Park. This phase will see 73.4 ha of the Lake Louise Community Fire Guard completed between November 2025 and March 2026. The Request for Proposal (RFP) is taking place through a transparent and competitive bidding process.

The deadline to submit a proposal is August 25, 2025

The deadline to submit a proposal is August 25, 2025.

A non-mandatory site visit will be held on August 11, 2025. Proponents or their delegates are encouraged to attend to become familiar with the site and pose questions. Interested proponents may also visit the site on their own by hiking designated trails.

For information or to register, contact: Shelley Tamelin Wildfire Risk Reduction Project Manager shelley.tamelin@pc.gc.ca

Demande de propositions

Coupe-feu de Lake Louise

Parcs Canada sollicite des propositions pour la deuxième phase d’un projet d’enlèvement mécanique d’arbres près de Lake Louise, dans le parc national Banff. Cette phase prévoit l’aménagement de 73,4 ha du coupe-feu de Lake Louise entre novembre 2025 et mars 2026. La demande de propositions s’inscrit dans un processus d’appel d’offres concurrentiel et transparent.

Une visite facultative du chantier aura lieu le 11 août 2025. Les promoteurs ou leurs délégués sont invités à y participer pour se familiariser avec les lieux et poser des questions. Les promoteurs peuvent aussi s’y rendre par eux-mêmes en empruntant des sentiers pédestres désignés.

La date limite pour présenter une proposition est le 25 août 2025.

Renseignements et inscription : Shelley Tamelin Gestionnaire, Projets de réduction des risques d'incendie shelley.tamelin@pc.gc.ca

Canal Flats council hopes to put more focus on cleaning up unsightly premises in the village.

PHOTO NICKY DOWLING/GETTY IMAGES

COLUMBIA VALLEY CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

OUT OF OFFICE…

Practical AI for your Business or Organization

I recently attended a Lunch and Learn at the Invermere Campus of the College of the Rockies in partnership with KAST (Kootenay Association for Science & Technology) and The Columbia Valley Chamber of Commerce. Presented by Priya Biswas, the subject was Practical AI for Your Business or Organization and was very well attended (shout out to support from the United Way, to pave the way for local non-profit organizations to attend)!

So, here is the thing; I am a writer. I like to put words to paper, turn out clever turns of phrase and, most importantly for me, put a little piece of me and my humour in every bit of wordsmithing I put out into the world. Using AI made me nervous – there was an undefined sense of unease whenever it was suggested I use it, or when I read something

that obviously was AI generated. I was resistant.

Priya opened the session with a plethora of examples of how we already use AI in our daily lives, sometimes without even realizing it, and how we depend on its ability to recognize patterns and collect data; generative AI is simply the next step in a collaborative journey. She talked about how AI is the ideal partner for completing repetitive tasks, transcribing meetings accurately (sometimes a bit too accurately – be careful what you say!) and providing non-judgemental feedback on draft ideas.

The session also touched on AI ethics, accur-

acy and the importance of maintaining the spirit and unique voice of your organization when using this versatile and exciting new tool: don’t share intellectual property, fact check everything and change things to make it sound like you – that’s who your customers and clients want to hear from!

I won’t say I’m a complete convert, but spending my time in this session with Priya has convinced me to start a ChatGPT account, and yes, I have used it (and not just for the social media post I put out right after the session)! AI should and can be used as a tool, not a replacement for the art of being a human!

Lunch and Learn Sessions are offered in partnership with the College of the Rockies, Invermere Campus and the CV Chamber and will resume in the fall of 2025 – watch for a new line-up of interesting and useful sessions to help your business or organization thrive! If you have an idea for as session, please feel free to reach out and share!

-Deanna Berrington CV Chamber of Commerce

Thursday, August 7

10:30am-11:30am: Senior’s Fitness Columbia Valley Centre, $2 dropin.

• 10:30am-12:30pm: Edgewater Storytime & Summer Reading Club. Edgewater Community Park. Invermere Public Library presents: Preschool Storytime at 10:30am - join us for stories and songs! This program is geared towards preschool kids, but all welcome to attend! Summer Reading Club is at 11:30am and geared towards kids in grades 1-7. Fill out a one-time registration form and drop into the days that work for you

• 11:30am-12:30pm: Little Lambs Baby Group. Radium Public Library. Stories, rhymes, and songs for babies and their caregivers! Every Thursday!

• 3:00pm-7:00pm: Summit Youth Hub in the Flats. Canal Flats Arena. Every Thursday all summer the Summit Youth Centre will be at the Canal Flats arena with the mobile skate park, games, and BBQ! Send your teens!

• 5:30pm-6:30pm: Learn to Crochet. Invermere Public Library. Wanting to learn some crochet skills? Drop-in to get help with projects or learn some basic skills! Some supplies available to use, but we suggest you bring your own if you’re able! Other makers welcome to join with any textile project they’re working on! All welcome! This program is suitable for children ages 8+ Children must be accompanied by an adult.

• 6:45pm: Texas Hold ‘Em Poker Invermere Legion. $30 buy-in.

• 7:30pm: Families Housing that Fits. Zoom meeting with host Ben Postmus. Inclusive and supportive housing in your community. diversefamilyroots@gmail.com

• 7:30pm-9:30pm: Trivia Night Windermere Whitehouse Pub. Host Mandi Cox $3/person, teams of more than 6 will be split into two groups. Ages 19+

Friday, August 8

• 9:00am-11:00am: Tennis for Everyone. Rotary Ball Park and Tennis Courts. “Tennis for Everyone" - CV Mixed Doubles Tennis. Everyone is welcome!

• 4:00pm-8:00pm: Market on Main. Radium, Main Street West. Market on Main is back! Our market is home to artisans, crafters, farmers, bakers, and more, from Radium and the Columbia Valley. You’ll find homemade and homegrown products, including baked goods, jams, jewelry, essential oils, paintings, candles, and much more. Plus, enjoy some live music and good vibes at the Market from 5:30 to 7:30 PM!

• 6:30pm - close: Meat Draw and 50/50 in the Legion! Members and guests welcome!

Saturday, August 9

• 9:00am-1:00pm: Invermere Farmers and Artists Market. Lakeview Parking Lot. All the vendors at the Invermere Farmers and Artists Market lovingly make, bake, grow their products just for you.

• 11:00am-12:30pm: LEGO/Duplo Club Invermere Public Library. We'll have Lego, Duplo, big blocks & more out to play with on Saturday mornings! All ages welcome.

• 3:00pm-4:30pm: Buddy Reading. Invermere Public Library. Practice reading aloud one-on-one with a staff member to build skill, confidence and a love of reading! 30 minute sessions at 3:00, 3:30 or 4:00 pm. By Appointment Only!! Contact Invermere Library to sign up.

• 6:30pm: Meat Draw and 50/50 in the Legion! Members and guests welcome!

Sunday, August 10

• 2:00pm: Cards, Cribbage and Darts Come to the Legion and have some fun! Members and guests welcome.

• 7:00pm: Live Music Horsethief Creek Pub & Eatery. Accompanied minors are permitted. No cover.

• 7:30pm: Dads Matter. Zoom meeting with host Ben Postmus. Dads connecting, Dads Supporting, Dads Inspiring. Do you have a son or daughter with Diverse Abilities? So do I. diversefamilyroots@gmail.com

Monday, August 11

• 9:00pm-11:55pm: Movies in the Mountains: Adventures in Babysitting. Pothole Park. Movies in the Mountains returns to Downtown Invermere this summer! Every Monday evening in July and August, join the District of Invermere at Pothole Park for an exciting lineup of familyfriendly movies under the stars. Concession available! Movies will start at dusk (between 9pm-11:30pm).

• 9:00am-11:00am: Tennis for Everyone. Rotary Ball Park and Tennis Courts. “Tennis for Everyone" - CV Mixed Doubles Tennis. Everyone is welcome!

• 10:00am-11:00am: Senior's Yoga Columbia Valley Centre, Invermere. $2 drop in, open to all seniors.

Tuesday, August 12

• 5:30pm-7:30pm: Chamber Connections. 93 Street Eats. Join us for a casual drop in networking event and check the new Smokehouse digs in

downtown Invermere! This casual, drop-in networking event will have at least two Chamber Board members in attendance, and there is no registration required. Let’s talk business!

• 10:30am-11:30am: Senior’s Fitness. Columbia Valley Centre, $2 drop-in.

• 11:00am-3:30pm: Invermere Summer Reading Club. Invermere Library. Each week’s theme will be inspired by a different colour! We will follow the order of the rainbow (red, orange, yellow, green, blue, indigo, violet). The 8th and last session will be “Rainbow Wrap Party”! We encourage you to wear the colour-of-the-week! Ages 5-8 programming will run from 11:00am-12:30pm. Ages 9-12 programming will run from 2:00pm-3:30pm. One-time registration is required. Once the registration form is filled out, you can drop-in to any session you’d like! Register online or stop by the library to fill out the form! Reading logs are available for pick-up at the Circulation desk at the library now!

• 7:30pm: Families on Tuesday. Zoom meeting with host Ben Postmus. Families connecting, Families Sharing, Families Supporting Families: Support, Listening, Sharing, Connecting. diversefamilyroots@gmail.com

Wednesday, August 13

• 6:00pm-8:30pm: Local Live Concert Series: L8. Pothole Park. Locals Live Concert Series Returns to Pothole Park in Downtown Invermere! Invermere’s free summer concert series featuring incredible local talent! Join us every Wednesday evening in July and August 2025.

• 6:00pm-6:30pm: Bedtime Storytime. Invermere Library. Come in your PJs and join us for stories and songs before bedtime! Geared towards preschool age, but all welcome to attend!

• 9:00am-11:00am: Tennis for Everyone. Rotary Ball Park and Tennis Courts. “Tennis for Everyone" - CV Mixed Doubles Tennis. Everyone is welcome!

• 10:00am-11:00am: Senior's Yoga Columbia Valley Centre, $2 drop-in.

• 3:00pm-6:30pm: Wednesday AgriPark Farmer’s Market. Crossroads next to Chamber of Commerce Offices. Local Farmers Market with Live Music. Featuring Farm Fresh Produce; local meat; eggs; and honey. Chefs, artisans, and bakers come to sell their goods in the historic barn. Facebook @ agriparkfarmers

• 3:00pm-7:00pm: Summit Youth Centre in Edgewater. Every Wednesday all summer long, find the Summit Youth Centre at the Frank's Rink in Edgewater. We have our mobile skate park, games, and BBQ! Bring your teens!

• 6:00pm-9:00pm: Wednesday Dinners & Meat Draw & 50/50 Invermere Legion. All welcome.

COLUMBIA VALLEY CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

Celebrating cross border salmon run

Submitted

The Confederated Tribes of the Colville Reservation, in collaboration with the Spokane and Coeur d’Alene Tribes, continue to make significant strides in the effort to reintroduce salmon into the Columbia River upstream of blockages caused by dams.

This joint initiative, which begins in the waters of northern Washington State, has produced a re-

markable return of salmon into the Upper Columbia River and even into British Columbia.

As of mid-2025, more than 125 adult Chinook salmon have returned to the Columbia River following their original release throughout the blocked areas of the Upper Columbia River, marking a major milestone in the restoration of salmon populations.

On July 8, a Chinook salmon was verified to have reached the

Pulse Check

Submitted by Lake Windermere Ambassadors

Week of July 22, 2025

A Water Quality Snapshot from Lake Windermere & Columbia Lake How are our lakes doing this week compared to long-term health goals?

Cascade Falls in the Kettle River in the first known occurrence since the dams were built.

Over 4,000 salmon have been released into the blocked area of the Columbia River since 2019. Over 2,100 were released just last year, and 1,700 of those were above Grand Coulee Dam. Also in 2024, the U.S. reintroduction program partnered with the Sinixt Confederacy to launch a transboundary tracking study. Fifty-nine adult Chinook were tagged with hydroacoustic devices and released in Northport, WA. Eighty-three per cent of these tagged fish were detected in British Columbia, indicating cross-border migration and spawning.

Researchers anticipate similar success in the near future as restoration efforts continue. One hundred and fifty summer Chinook were released at Northport last week. These were all spaghetti tagged. Such tags may be identified visually and enable the fish to be tracked with drones. Another approximately 250 summer Chinook were released on July 30, and another release is anticipated in the near future.

The released fish are tested for

LAKE NOTES

Lake Windermere: The water quality is overall healthy, with extremely clear water, a stable depth, and near perfect levels of oxygen to support aquatic life. However, the pH is on the higher end of the recommended acceptable range, making the water slightly alkaline. No concerns yet regarding pH unless the trend continues.

Columbia Lake: Water quality remains healthy. Though, chlorophyll levels are gradually rising in the lake: likely a result of phytoplankton growth, caused by the warmth and available nutrients in the water.

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

diseases such as whirling disease and IHN to ensure the population remains healthy.

The Colville Tribes recently assumed full ownership of the Chief Joseph Hatchery, one of several hatcheries built to help the salmon population survive the construction of the dams, so brood stock will continue to be available.

Reports of the salmon population are vital to research and conservation efforts. Anglers who legally catch Chinook salmon in Canada are encouraged to report their catch to Herb Alex with the Sinixt Confederacy at 202-514 Vernon Street, Nelson, at telephone number (509) 419-9801.

The chairman of the Sinixt Confederacy and of the Colville Tribes, Jarred-Michael Erickson, said, “The Sinixt and Colville people are dedicated to restoring the salmon that have nourished our people physically and spiritually since time immemorial. We have a sacred responsibility to do this restoration work for the good of the ecological balance and all people. We are thrilled that our efforts are producing positive results.”

Work continues to successfully reintroduce salmon into the Columbia River upstream

Columbia River Headwater Lakes

Ice Cream Days

National Ice Cream Day might be over, but the delicious summer sweet treats are just getting started! The Columbia Valley has no shortage of cool, creamy goodness—whether it’s your team classic cone or something plant-based and refreshing, there’s something for every sweet tooth. Two must-try spots:

✰ Chill Out Ice Cream – Known for bold flavours and generous scoops.

✰ Eat Pure Food – A tasty stop for clean, natural treats that don’t skimp on flavour. What’s your favourite place to grab a scoop of delicious?

Photo by XXX XXXX

Runners get ready to Loop the Lake

By Steve Hubrecht steve@columnbiavalleypioneer.com

The longstanding Loop the Lake race will stride back to Invermere soon.

The 28th edition of the event is set for Saturday, Aug. 9 and will see local and visiting runners put their best foot forward in a half marathon, a 10-kilometre race, and a five-kilometre race.

In 2024 Loop the Lake attracted more than 500 participants, a 15 per cent increase from 2023. And the race is set to grow even more this year; when the Pioneer spoke with organizers last week they’d already seen a 15 per cent increase in registration for 2025 compared with 2024.

“It should be a pretty good party,” organizer Jamie Carrick told the Pioneer.

The race began in the mid-1990s and has been held every year since, except 2020 and 2021, when it was

cancelled because of the COVID-19 pandemic. It returned from this twoyear hiatus in 2022, and participation has shot up ever since.

What’s driving this surge?

“We’re not exactly sure. Running is a hot sport right now. During the pandemic and then continuing after it, people seem to have discovered the joys of running and pushing themselves in a running race,” said Carrick, adding this trend is evident not only in Loop the Lake but also in foot races all across Canada.

Another factor that makes Loop the Lake popular is the race’s family friendly nature. For the top runners it’s a competitive event, but there are a lot of participants simply out having fun, including kids of all ages, seniors and parents pushing infants in strollers.

The race got its name because decades ago it used to send runners down Westside Road, then back up along Highway 93/95, making them literally loop around Lake Winder-

mere. These days traffic on Highway 93/95 makes that a dangerous proposition, and the race route has long since changed. For most of the past decade runners have enjoyed powering along a route that includes the paved multi-use Markin-MacPhail Westside Legacy Trail as well as on Westside Road.

The trail is a great amenity, offering runners stellar views over Lake Windermere and the Rockies, said Carrick.

In light of ongoing international trade disputes and the subsequent ‘Buy Canadian’ movement, Loop the Lake organizers have shifted their sponsorship this year, making it 100 per cent Canadian. They are also making all their half marathon finisher medals out of British Columbia red alderwood.

Continued on page 15

Did you know

that you can get a FireSmart Rebate up to $5000 for completing FireSmart work on your home and yard in the Village of Radium Hot Springs?

✓ Start with a free FireSmart Home Assessment.

✓ Complete some or all of the work indicated on the Assessment worksheet.

✓ Apply for the rebate and receive 50% of your expenditures, up to $ 5,000.

Contact Steve at FireSmart@radiumhotsprings.ca to register or for more information

Alternatively, you can visit the FireSmart page under Village Living and navigate to the FireSmart Assessments tab to register online.

PUBLICNOTICE: FORESTOPERATIONSMAPREVIEW

InaccordancewiththeForestandRangePracticesAct, CanadianForestProductsLtd.(Canfor)invitesthepublicto reviewitsForestOperationsMap(FOMID: 2482)intheRocky MountainandSelkirkNaturalResourceDistricts.TheFOM describesareasproposedforCuttingPermitandRoadPermit developmentwithinthenextthreeyearsstartingon July29th,2025,andendingonJuly29th,2028.Wewelcomeyour commentsandfeedbackduringthereviewperiodstarting July29th,2025.Pleasesubmityourcomments byAugust28th,2025.

Themapisaccessibleforreviewandcommentsubmission onlineat: https://fom.nrs.gov.bc.ca/public/projects

Alternatively,in-personreviewandcommentscanbecompleted byappointmentonlyatthefollowinglocationduringofficehours (MondaytoFriday8:00am-4:00pm):

1000IndustrialRoad1,Cranbrook,BC,V1C4J7

Alternatively,in-personreviewandcommentscanbecompleted byappointmentonlyatthefollowinglocationduringofficehours (MondaytoFriday8:00am-4:00pm): 1000IndustrialRoad1,Cranbrook,BC,V1C4J7

Commentsmayalsobesubmittedbymailtotheaboveaddress orbyphoneat604-773-3490or toashleigh.harvison@canfor.com

Many participants don’t see Loop the Lake as a competition but rather a fun, family event.

PHOTO SUBMITTED

Running event set for Aug. 9

Continued from page 14

“We wanted more of a Canadian focus” said Carrick. “As an event, we’re making that a priority.”

About half of Loop the Lake participants are from Calgary and there is a sizable contingent from Cranbrook, but most of the rest are Columbia Valley locals.

This year race organizers are once again partnering with the Columbia Valley Food Bank and

donating some of the proceeds from Loop the Lake to the local nonprofit. Last year they donated $2,500 to the food bank.

“We’re chugging along. It’s a great community event,” said Carrick.

Race organizers are still looking for volunteers to help with Loop the Lake. Registration will remain open until race day.

Visit www.loopthelake.ca to learn more, to register for the race, or to become a volunteer.

Application forms for organizations which might be eligible for a Permissive Tax Exemption are now available at the Municipal Office, 914 – 8th Avenue and on our website at www.invermere.net under Local Government/Document Library/Applications and Forms/2026 Permissive Tax Exemption Application.

A Permissive Tax Exemption is a means for Council to support organizations within the community which further council’s objectives of enhancing quality of life and delivery of services economically. A Permissive Tax Exemption is strictly at the discretion of the District of Invermere Council.

The application forms are for a tax exemption for 2026 property taxes as per regulations set out in the Community Charter.

To be eligible, nature of the organization must be:

• Not for profit organization

• Charitable or philanthropic organization

• An athletic or service club or association

• Care facility or licensed private hospital

• Partner of the municipality by agreement under s.225 of the Community Charter

• Other local authority

• Organization eligible under s.220 statutory exemption (e.g. public worship, senior home, hospital)

Deadline for the receipt of applications: August 15, 2025 at 4:30 pm local time.

Please call our office at 250.342.9281 if you require any additional information.

Karen Coté Director of Finance

The popular Loop the Lake race returns for its 28th edition in Invermere on Saturday, Aug. 9. The 2024 version of the event (shown here) attracted more than 500 eager participants. PHOTO

Brett Brett boat concert just smashing

PHOTOS MAT LOYOLA PHOTOGRAPHY

The Brett Brett Baltac Boat Concert on Lake Windermere on August 1 was a memorable and moving experience for all.

The two Bretts pulled it off again with a stupendous boat concert in Invermere on August 1. Proceeds from the event go to mental health support for adolescents.

PHOTOS MAT LOYOLA PHOTOGRAPHY & FILM

Youth demonstrate entrepreneurial savvy

By Steve Hubrecht steve@columbiavalleypioneer.com

Columbia Valley kids with a flair for business — or those who simply wanted to learn more about being in business — got some handson experience recently during the Young Entrepreneurs Market.

The first kids market saw nearly a dozen elementary and primary school would-be tycoons operating a total of six farmer’s marketstyle booths in the grassy space just outside Roi’s Resale second hand shop near the cenotaph plaza in downtown Invermere on Saturday, July 26. A second kids market was scheduled for August 2 (after this issue of the Pioneer went to press).

The kids sold a wide assortment of goods, from made-from-scratch dog treats, to handmade arts and crafts, to used toys and all sorts of food and drink.

The young vendors seemed to do brisk business during market

hours from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m, and when the Pioneer stopped by at about 12:30 p.m. on July 26, a few of them even appeared close to selling out of their stock.

The market was the idea of Roi’s Resale owner Roi Golan. He wanted to teach his own son a bit about running a business, and then thought to expand it into a kids market. Golan had heard of similar markets happening in other communities, but as far as he knows this is the first one in the Columbia Valley.

“I basically wanted to give them a chance to learn about business through firsthand experience. What is revenue? What are your costs? What is your profit? How do you promote yourself? How do you interact with grown up customers? How to you advertise yourself? Even small things like how do you make change when a customer hands you a $20?” explained Golan.

Continued on page 21

The Young Entrepreneurs Market was very busy in Invermere on July 26. Above, Chris sells dog treats. At left, Ember sells homemade crafts, and below, Avery sells toys.

PHOTOS STEVE HUBRECHT

Kids market brings out business sense

Continued from page 20

These are all things that could be taught in school on a theoretical level, but nothing beats learning by doing, he added.

At the first market, on July 26, “there was everything from the classic lemonade stand to Rice Krispies (treats), cupcakes, popcorn, and some of the kids made and sold their

own art,” noted Golan. “It was actually pretty successful ... a lot of the kids did it all themselves, from A to Z, with no help from their parents. They set up, they sold their items, they did all the talking, handled all the money ... it was really good to see.”

When the Pioneer spoke with Golan last week, after the July 26 market, but before the August 2

market, he said he’d had a lot of inquiries from additional prospective kid vendors for the second market, “so I think there will be even more booths (on August 2).”

Edgewater Elementary school students Elina and Tija Schmid sold cookies and other baked treats at the market along with their friend Kyree Kohorst. Their parents Melanie and Raffael say it was a good experience

for the girls.

“They learned some good life lessons — that you have to work for money, how to talk with people, the math of managing money — all in a practical way. They also had a lot of fun and were excited,” said Melanie. “They took real ownership. They came up with a plan, and prepared. That was great to see.”

At left, Elina, Tija, and Kyree (with Devin in the background) learn how to operate a business by selling baked goods. And below, Jude awaits customers at his stand of homemade knick knacks.

PHOTOS STEVE HUBRECHT

ANNOUNCEMENTS

BUYING OR SELLING?

Serving Invermere & Area

cell 250-341-1202 gerry@gerrytaft.ca

Alcoholics Anonymous. If alcohol is causing problems or conflict in your life, AA can help. All meetings are at 7 pm. Columbia United AA, Invermere: Saturday, Sunday, Tuesday and Wednesday at the BC Service Building, South End624 4th St. Invermere. Please call 250-342-2424 for more information or to speak with someone from our fellowship.

Al-Anon. Are you concerned about or affected by someone else’s drinking? For more information or to speak with someone from our fellowship, please call 250-878-2448 or 250-342-8392

CHEERS

Cheers to Locals Live Concert Series. We attended on Wednesday July 30. Rockinomix was amazing!!

Cheers to Ashley at Red Apple. You are always willing to help me find a product in the store! Great service!!!!!

Employment Opportunity OFFICE ADMINISTRATOR

The Village of Radium Hot Springs, known for its small-town charm and warmth, is seeking an organized and detail-oriented Office Administrator to join our growing Village team!

When residents or visitors arrive at the office, you will be the first to greet them and determine the reason for their visit! Personality is key! The successful candidate will wear ‘multiple hats’; is an excellent communicator; and is comfortable dealing with the public in a role that requires tact, empathy and diplomacy.

Computer experience (emphasis on Microsoft Office) is required, as is basic accounting knowledge. The ability to work independently within established policies and procedures is key.

If you thrive in a busy environment, are skilled at managing multiple priorities and are willing to learn new systems and skills, this opportunity is for you!

This role offers a wage of $28-32/hour, depending on experience, plus excellent benefits.

For more information on the role and qualifications, please email corporate@radiumhotsprings.ca

To apply, email your cover letter and resume to corporate@radiumhotsprings.ca, or send by mail or fax to the Village Office.

Applications must be received at the Village Office no later than August 11th, 2025 at 4:00pm local time.

We thank all applicants in advance; however, only those selected for an interview will be contacted.

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

CHEERS

Cheers to Mat Loyola Photography for the great shots taken at local DOI events around town.

Cheers to Dina at Invermere McDonald’s. You always have a smile on your face. You are awesome!

Cheers to Cortney at DOI for organizing Locals Live Concert Series. What a great mix of talent. We are fortunate to have this in our little town.

Cheers to Darla Gray for helping us when we are short-handed. You are a great team player.

Cheers to Bowen for the great job doing our weekly delivery.

CHEERS

CHEERS to Amanda at the service desk at Sobeys.

I came in looking for an iTunes card. There were none on display, so she took the extra step in locating some behind the counter. Most people would have said “none left” but she went that extra mile. Great customer service. Sobeysyou have a great employee in Amanda.

Cheers to my good friend Ricky Meyer for dropping off homemade raspberry jam. You are a gem!

VALLEY SPAS

HELP WANTED OFFICE/SALES POSITION

Valley Spas is to looking for a full time office/sales person. Send resumes via email to valleyspas09@gmail.com

SERVICES

K. B. Creations

Handyman services, Renovations, Masonry, Plumbing, Drywall & Painting. Please call Kevin 250-688-2897

LESSONS

at Fairmont Hot Springs with Rocky Mountain Swim lessons. Book online at: www.rockymountainswimlessons.ca

RV FOR SALE

Keystone Passport travel trailer. 26 foot. One owner. One slide. Hitch included. Asking $28,000 613-13th Ave 250-341-5808

extras. $4,500 Located in Windermere call 403-615-5880

ANNOUNCEMENTS

with

Stick your neck out and be seen by thousands of readers in print and online!

Doug’s Small Engine Repair 250-342-6068 Call Christina at 250-341-6299 ext 101 to promote your business in the Pioneer

Call Christina at 250-341-6299 ext 101 to promote your business in the Pioneer

SWIM LESSONS

FOR SALE

16’ Starcraft aluminum boat with Honda 45 HP engine and trailer. Full convertible top. Many

PHOTO SYD DANIS

The post office of yesteryear

Fresh old ideas

By Arnold Malone Pioneer Columnist

The post office has been around for a long time. In fact, the post office pre-dates Canada.

The first post office in our land opened December 14, 1755 in Halifax. Two years earlier Benjamin Franklin was appointed Deputy Post Master General of Britain’s Colonies. North America’s colonies, then, consisted of Nova Scotia, Newfoundland, New Hampshire, Massachusetts, Rhode Island, New York and eight other eastern USA states.

Canada did have a pony express – a short one – that ran from Halifax to Digby Gut.

Our post office has been an institution loaded with nostalgia for communities big and small across our massive landscape. It was much more than a place to pick up mail. In the hamlets and villages across Canada, including the high north, the post office was a gathering place.

It was in the post office where parents hoped with heavy hearts that today’s mail would bring a letter from their son, now on the front lines during the Second World War. With a fallen heart they depart, perhaps a letter tomorrow. Also, lovers apart stayed in touch through the use of the post office.

Inside those post offices, locals came in from the cold and exchanged greetings, learned about families and considered matters affecting their community. Some people departed in haste; the hand writing on an envelope gave a desire to read this letter right now.

Persons of my age may recall that in late November and early December — perhaps by the light of a coal oil lamp — our mothers would write stacks of Christmas letters to friends and relatives. Between the 5th and 10th of December these letters were dropped at the post office hoping for an arrival before Christmas.

Some families strung their Christmas cards on the parlour wall. A lot of cards boasted, “We have many friends.” Mothers often would read the letters from aunt Marie or uncle Jake while dad and the kids listened with a vivid imagination. Far away friends and relatives were known by how well they wrote and what they wrote about.

We knew our far away relatives from the magic of their stories. Many of whom we would never meet. We found out who was recovering from an illness and who finished grade nine.

At peak operation, before the pandemic, Canada Post delivered 5.5 billion items annually. Prior to the pandemic, private operators delivered 38 per cent of parcels and the post office delivered 62 per cent. After the pandemic, the post office delivered 29 per cent of parcels and the private operators delivered 71 per cent.

Technology has not been kind to the post office. Emails and text messages along with online banking and e-Transfer for paying bills has reduced the mail volume. That has slashed the income of the postal service. Canada Post has operated every year since 2017 at a financial loss. The loss was $548 million in 2022 and $748 million in 2023.

As a child, I rode with my dad to deliver a horse-drawn sled load of grain to an elevator; then pick up the mail. Today, the railway station, the station agent, the telegraph operator, the elevators, the delivery horses, and even many branch lines are all gone. From the activity of that day, only the post office remains.

The post office is essential, but only if it adapts to a changing reality. In the USA some post offices operate in grocery stores or pharmacies.

In Europe there are post offices that also sell insurance or operate as a bank. These options may not be for Canada but what is utterly clear is that the operating model needs to be in tandem with a changing world. We need to find a workable framework fast because the post office must survive. Change is a derivative of progress and change must come.

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)

We do not have services in July and August. Our first Sunday service in the fall will be September 7th at 10:30am. 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 canadianmartyrs.ca

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)

Old Canada Post offices were considered the social gathering places of yesteryear, and they still are.

PHOTO JUN ZHANG/GETTY IMAGES

Worship Service: Sunday 9 a.m., Thursday 7:45 p.m. Chamber of Commerce (Lions Hall) For inquiries: 250-688-1643 250-270-2208 or 250-688-0629 For more info about the church, you can Google online at incmedia.org or pasugo.com.ph