VALLEY VIEWS
In top photo, the Invermere seniors donated the proceeds from its April 28 bingo to the Kinsmen Club of Windermere Valley to use for the community's Canada Day fireworks display. A total of $900 was donated. Thank you to all the bingo players for helping out and thank you Invermere seniors! From left are Darcy Oliver, Gerriann Donahue, Blayne Kirby, and Terry Schreder. In right photo, local students impressed the community recently with their 'Art From the Heart' masterpieces.
Geologist proposes bike trail network
Columbia Valley Pioneer staff
An ambitious proposal for a mountain bike/e-bike trail network connecting the East and West Kootenays has been presented to the regional district.
Local geologist John Bell from Jumbo Resources Ltd. unfolded the plan to RDEK directors last week during a meeting of the board.
Growing up in Panorama, Bell developed a “big passion” for the outdoors and wants to reconnect the Kootenays by way of a 20-40 kilometre phased trail project via Earl Gray Pass and/or a six to eight kilometre phased trail via Jumbo Pass.
“This will generate positive energy for everyone,” he told directors, noting the initiative aims to create a world-class, sustainable trail system that leverages the region’s natural beauty, cultural history, and vibrant biking community to deliver economic, health, and cultural benefits.
Bell pointed out the proposal is only in the early stages and requires consultation and suggestions from stakeholders, particularly First Nations who have used these paths for thousands of years.
In a report to the board, Bell said the trail via Earl Grey Pass and/or Jumbo Pass will boost tourism by attracting mountain and e-bike riders to the area, stimulating lodging and dining services. It will also create jobs in trail maintenance, guiding, and hospitality, he added.
He indicated that low-cost do-
mestic hydro power will enable affordable e-bike charging stations at trailheads and community hubs.
“Establishing these trails enable crossings in three to five hours with zero emissions, versus 300-kilometre, six-hour drives around the Purcells — slashing time and carbon footprint.”
Bell said integrating mining history and the historic ‘Beef Trail’ (used to transport cattle in the 19th century) while utilizing interpretive signage and Indigenous collaboration will enrich rider experience and foster cultural pride. He noted the trails cross Sinixt, Syilx, and Ktunaxa lands, offering opportunities to incorporate storytelling, such as the history of pit houses.
The project will align with BC Recreation Sites and Trails, ensuring that all trails are developed as an “authorized trail area” in partnership with local organizations such as the Columbia Valley Cycling Society in Invermere.
Bell’s report highlights a 61-kilometre trail through the Purcell Mountains, historically used by First Nations and miners in the late 1800s, connecting Toby Creek (near Invermere) to Argenta near Kootenay Lake.
The route offers diverse terrain, from old-growth forests to challenging river crossings, and is steeped in history, including Earl Grey’s 1909 cabin.
Continued on page 5
By Steve Hubrecht steve@columbiavalleypioneer.com
A new bench at Frater’s Landing in downtown Invermere honours the memory of longtime valley resident Jim Fisher.
Fisher died last summer at age 92, having lived in the Columbia Valley for nearly 30 years. Before that he lived in Ontario where he was an electrician, a teacher, and a business owner. There, in middle age, he met and married Maureen Thorpe.
The two packed up their bags and moved west as their ‘honeymoon’, finding a new home in a cabin at the foot of the Rocky Mountains.
The valley lifestyle suited Fisher just fine, and he enjoyed chopping the firewood for the couple’s cabin even into his 90s. Jim was also an avid runner and played old timer’s hockey with the Silver Tips.
When Fisher moved to the valley, he was surprised to find there was no formal running group, so together with Thorpe he started the Fast Track-
ers Running Club. It was through this club that many local residents know Fisher.
Thorpe explained that Fisher only took up running in his mid 50s, “when things started falling apart on him.” He began doing casual runs with his kids, got faster, and ended up running 26 official marathons, including qualifying for and then, at age 71, completing the famous Boston Marathon.
“He was still running when he was 89,” Thorpe told the Pioneer
The bench commemorating Jim went up in Frater’s Landing in early May. It was a spot Fisher knew well, as he frequented the Circle Cafe (and its many previous iterations) on the landing most Saturday mornings for coffee.
“It was his tradition,” explained Thorpe.
The bench has a plaque with Fisher’s name and a pair of running shoes with angel wings.
Thorpe thanked Frater’s Landing owner Jay Balabas and Fairmont Goldsmiths owner Brandon Szott for their help with the bench and plaque.
The bench in downtown Invermere commemorates Jim Fisher who died last summer at the age of 92.
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RDEK hears bike trail network pitch
Continued from page 3
Bell indicated that Jumbo Pass, a shorter, high-alpine route in the Purcell Mountains, is accessible from Invermere, offering stunning views. He noted this pass is less logistically complex but equally scenic, with potential for integration into existing trail networks such as those at Panorama Resort. “Both routes would be evaluated for environmental impact, trail sustainability, and community support to determine the optimal path.”
Bell suggested the trail network would draw domestic and international riders year-round with race events, including winter fat tire biking, extending the tourism season beyond summer. He added that the trail’s appeal could spur the development of campgrounds, glamping sites, or eco-lodges. A new pub could double as a lodge or café, serving as a trailhead hub with bike rentals, food, and accommodation, Bell noted.
According to the report, trails (maintained by local clubs) will minimize soil disruption and avoid invasive species zones. These trails will be constructed with sustainable materials and techniques, prioritizing low-impact design.
Bell said the idea is to establish a maintenance fund through donations and grants, with planning and consultation to cost $50,000, trail construction $500,000, promotion and events
$30,000, and maintenance $20,000 per year. The total initial investment will be approximately $580,000, according to the report.
During question period, Bell was asked by director Norma Blissett if he has been contact with the Ktunaxa First Nation, noting it is critical that they be involved from the start to avoid problems later. Bell acknowledged this is the first step, noting there has been a precedence of First Nations being heavily involved in the construction of these trails. He reiterated these pathways have been an ancient travel corridor for Indigenous Peoples.
Director Thomas McDonald said he is a huge advocate of getting youth outside to experience recreational trails.
Bell said trail building is almost becoming a science, pointing to how trails are being designed today. “They are making trails that are going to last hundreds of years, I think . . . it’s not just slashing and putting up a trail.”
Director Mike Gray suggested that Bell work closely with groups such as the Kootenay Conservation Program that use specific criteria for trails. He added that preserving wildlife corridors is vitally important. “You want to make sure you make those connections early,” Gray said.
Director Steve Fairbairn mentioned the popular West Coast Trail and the fact you have
to book a year ahead to use it. “I have no doubt these two trails (being proposed) would be popular beyond anybody’s imagination in this room.” He then asked Bell what is the plan for tourism and travel load, sanitation (clean-up), and highway access.
Bell said that a master plan would be needed to address trail safety, sanitation, and keeping motorized traffic off the trails.
Fairbairn said he can see the potential for these trails linking to the rest of the province. Bell agreed.
UPCOMING COURSES
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Screenshot shows proposed trail network through Earl Grey Pass and Jumbo Pass.
On the trail
For mountain bike and e-bike fans, the proposed Kootenay trail network presented to the RDEK last week is a dream come true.
Connecting the east and west via Earl Gray Pass and/or Jumbo Pass would generate a lot of interest, not to mention several economic benefits. But no doubt the proposal would not sit well with some people who frown at any kind of development in Mother Nature’s backyard.
On paper, the proposal sounds intriguing, if not ambitious, touted as a “world class, sustainable trail system” that would honour the region’s beauty and cultural history.
The project would create employment and boost tourism via lodging, dining, and guiding services, and not just during the summer season.
And to think these e-bikes would not leave a carbon footprint (zero emissions) through the Purcell Mountains is comforting to know.
There is also the potential to involve local First Nations to incorporate Indigenous culture and history as part of the trail experience. But, it must be said that the Jumbo Pass/Toby Creek watershed area is a sacred place to the Ktunaxa people; a place called 'Qat'muk' where the Grizzly Bear Spirit was born. So, to assume the Ktunaxa Nation would automatically support such a trail network would be naive.
Whenever you choose to develop in nature, there’s going to be negative impacts. For example, constructing or expanding trails will affect wildlife habitat and the surrounding ecology. It doesn’t take much to disturb nesting grounds or push a certain species out of an area if somebody is digging nearby.
And even if there are signs urging people to stay on the trail, guess, what? Somebody is going to go off the trail like Curious George to explore uncharted areas. And no doubt garbage will find its way on nature’s ground instead of where it belongs.
Another disconcerting thought is the potential development of campgrounds or ‘glamping’ sites in the area. Constructing trails for cycling is one thing, but adding commercial enterprises that will leave a footprint may be pushing this envelope too far. In any case, environmental impact studies, not to mention public consultation, will need to be set in stone before this project sees the light of day.
Lyonel Doherty, editor
OPINION
STR operator speaks out
I am writing as a longstanding homeowner and licensed short-term rental (STR) operator in Fairmont Hot Springs to express my complete opposition to the recent agenda being advanced by the Fairmont Hot Springs and Windermere community associations regarding short-term rentals.
I want to make it absolutely clear that I am not a member of the Fairmont Hot Springs or Windermere community associations, nor do I support their ad-hoc fringe agendas. These groups do not speak for all property owners in Fairmont Hot Springs, and I strongly disagree with the direction and messaging they are attempting to promote on behalf of the broader community.
Fairmont Hot Springs has always been a tourism and resort-based community. People have invested here for decades because of golf, recreation, seasonal tourism, vacation homes, and
the ability to responsibly share those properties through short-term rentals. To suddenly portray STR owners as some kind of threat to the community is both unfair and disconnected from the reality of what Fairmont has always been.
I have responsibly operated a successful short-term rental business in Fairmont for several years. My property is provincially registered, compliant, and contributes directly to the local economy through tourism spending, local jobs, trades, restaurants, golf, and service providers.
It is also important to recognize that the provincial government itself recently acknowledged the unique nature of resort-based communities by exempting designated resort areas — including Fairmont Hot Springs — from many of the broader provincial short-term rental restrictions imposed elsewhere in BC. Continued on page 7
LETTERS/OP-ED
STR owner questions group's agenda
Continued from page 6
That decision recognized the obvious reality that communities like Fairmont are fundamentally tourism-driven and economically dependent on visitor accommodation.
What I find most concerning is the argument attempting to link short-term rentals to Fairmont’s water restrictions and boil water advisories. Frankly, that logic makes no sense.
Most STR properties in Fairmont are not occupied anywhere near full time. Many likely average only about 35 per cent occupancy annually. Restricting STRs and converting those same homes into permanent fulltime occupancy or long-term rentals would likely place even greater continuous demand on Fairmont Utilities’ water and sewer infrastructure — not less.
The real issue is infrastructure planning, capacity management, and perhaps an aging and outdated water and sewer system that may be increasingly prone to service disruptions and failures — not whether visitors stay in Fairmont for a weekend versus a full year.
It is also important to recognize that many property owners in Fairmont are not represented by these associations and do not support their increasingly aggressive anti-STR agenda. There are many responsible homeowners and operators who believe in balanced regu-
lation, good neighbour policies, and respectful tourism without resorting to arbitrary density caps, spacing rules, and fear-driven narratives.
The suggestion that Fairmont should somehow distance itself from tourism and short-term rentals ignores the very economic foundation upon which this community was built.
I strongly encourage the RDEK to hear from all property owners — not just a small but vocal activist segment attempting to redefine Fairmont Hot Springs into something it has never historically been.
I would also encourage other short-term rental owners and tourism-based property owners throughout the provincially protected resort communities of the Columbia Valley to unite and ensure their voices are heard. Property owners who support balanced, fair, and responsible tourism policies should not allow fringe community associations to dominate the conversation and speak on behalf of the broader community.
If you are an STR owner or supporter who shares these concerns and wishes to join a broader alliance advocating for fair representation and responsible tourism policy in the Columbia Valley, I encourage you to contact me directly at still. darren@gmail.com.
Darren Still, Fairmont Hot Springs
A short-term rental operator is expressing concern about the agenda against STRs in the valley. GETTY IMAGES
New owners offer splash at Valley Spas
PHOTOS SUBMITTED
Amanda Nason advertising@columbiavalleypioneer.com
With new business owners comes a new chapter for Valley Spas in Invermere.
Neil and Coralie Woelfle are retiring after 18 years of service and handing the enterprise over to Reid Hemsing and Greg Geiger who have merged their expertise to offer a fullservice experience in hot tubs, saunas, and cold plunges.
Valley Spas specializes in high quality, Canadian-built products including Arctic Spas (designed for harsh climates), Cold Tub (the best cold plunge company in the world, according to Reid and Greg), and custom-made saunas from a top Canadian manufacturer.
Swim spas are also offered (allweather pools that function as hot tubs but are large enough for swimming and parties).
A brand new portable shower is now available, ideal for pairing with saunas.
Smart features — saunas are programmable via smartphone with Bluetooth and WiFi, allowing users to control settings remotely (e.g., after skiing, just set the temperature and it's ready when you get home).
Valley Spas offers full-service installation; complete start-to-finish service including concrete pads and site preparation.
Maintenance service features a
two-part service model: water maintenance program with bi-weekly or customized hot tub checks, and a full-time service technician with six years of experience providing repairs, typically within one to two days of a service call.
The business plans to develop an outdoor showroom, featuring hot tubs, saunas, and cold plunges for customers to experience firsthand — come in for a mini spa day before you purchase.
The Valley Spas team currently consists of five employees, including the owners, with plans to hire one more in 2026.
Reid is originally from Brooks, Alberta, lived on the West Coast (Squamish) for 10 years, and returned to Invermere three years ago. Greg moved from Warburg, Alberta eight years ago — only 10 minutes from the Arctic Spas factory where many of their team members have personal connections.
Reid and Greg are avid users of saunas and cold plunges, bringing deep personal and professional knowledge to the business.
They are hosting a May long weekend sale to welcome the community, celebrate the transition, and to thank Neil and Coralie.
The event will include a parking lot sale and an opportunity to try a Cold Tub. The new team will also be on hand to answer questions about these products. Don’t miss it!
Valley Spas in Invermere is under new ownership.
Thursday May 14
10:00 -11:00am - Seniors Fitness at Seniors Hall. Doors open 9:30 for warm-ups and indoor walking $2 drop-in.
1:30pm - Floor Curling at the Invermere Seniors Hall.
6:45pm - Texas Hold'em Poker Invermere Legion, $30 buy-in.
5:00 - 7:15pm - The Outdoor Learning Store and the IPL are partnering to screen the presenters from the 2025/26 Four Seasons of Indigenous Learning. Tune in at the library to watch the virtual presentation, and then stay for a discussion afterwards.This month’s presenter is David A. Robertson. All welcome to attend! Registration required.
Friday May 15
10:30-11:30 - Story Time - Invermere Public Library. Join us for stories, songs and a craft. Geared towards preschool age, but all welcome to attend.
11:00am - Tennis for Everyone - Columbia Valley Mixed Doubles Tennis, Rotary Park Tennis Courts.
1:00pm - Duplicate Bridge at the Invermere Seniors Hall.
2:00-3:00pm - Friday Funday at the Invermere Public Library. STEAM and art activities geared towards kids aged 6-9, but all welcome to attend. Drop off for ages 6+. Registration required
6:30pm - Meat Draw and 50/50 in the Legion. Members and guests welcome.
Saturday May 16
10:30 - 11:30 - Story Time - Invermere Public Library. Join us for stories, songs and a craft. Geared towards preschool age, but all welcome to attend.
11:00am - 12:30pm - Lego Club at the Invermere Public Libray.. Drop in for free play with Lego and Duplo. This is not a supervised event.
4:00 - 6:00pm - Meat Draw and 50/50 in the Legion. Members and guests welcome.
Sunday May 17
2:00pm - Cribbage and Darts Come to the Legion and have some fun! Members and guests welcome.
Monday May 18
11:00am - Tennis for Everyone - Columbia Valley Mixed Doubles Tennis, Rotary Park Tennis Courts.
1:30pm - Cribbage at Invermere Seniors Hall. 6:30pm - Fun Bridge at Invermere Seniors Hall.
Tuesday May 19
10:00-11:00am - Seniors Fitness at Seniors Hall. Doors open 9:30am for warm-ups and indoor walking $2 drop-in. 11:30am - Scrapbooking at Invermere Seniors Hall.
10:30 -11:30am - Baby Goose at the Invermere Public Library. Come and learn songs and rhymes, listen to stories, and meet new friends! This program is free for babies and their caregivers! Hosted by CBAL. Registration required.
4:00 -5:00pm - Youth Zone at the Invermere Public Libary. Programming for kids aged 9-14. A variety of art and STEAM activities. Registration required.
6:30 - 8:00pm - Second Winds Community Band Practises every Tuesday at the Catholic Church in Invermere. New members are welcome.
Wednesday May 20
10:00 -11:00am - Seniors Yoga at Seniors Hall. Doors open 9:30am for warm-up and indoor walking-$2 drop-in.
1:00pm - Duplicate Bridge at the Invermere Seniors Hall.
11:00am - Tennis for Everyone - Columbia Valley Mixed Doubles Tennis, Rotary Park Tennis Courts.
2:00 -3:00pm - Sewcial Hour Invermere Public Library. Bring your textile projects. Come and enjoy a cup of tea and connect with other makers. All welcome to attend.
6:00 - 7:00pm - Writers Group at the Invermere Public Library. Join us to share work, receive feedback and build confidence as a writer. All welcome to attend. This month Juanita Violini will join us to talk about character development.
6:30pm - Meat Draw and 50/50 in the Legion. Members and guests welcome.
Pickleball club gets its court time
Radium Community Chipping Day
Radium will hold its annual Community Chipping Day again in 2026, on Thursday, May 21st. This program is free of charge and allows residents to remove combustible vegetation from their properties, with the chipping crew handling the debris removal. Residents can place FireSmart debris out up to 10 days before May 21st for removal on the 21st. Registration is required, as the crew will only visit the addresses on its list.
To register, email village@radiumhotsprings.ca or call 250 347 6455 and provide your name, civic address in Radium and a contact number. For more information, email Steve at firesmart@radiumhotsprings or visit the village webpage at www.radiumhotsprings.ca and search for FireSmart.
Chipping guidelines:
• The preferred branch length is one to two and a half metres, and a maximum diameter of 13cm.
• Piles must be placed 1.5 - 2m back from the edge of the road and must not obstruct any drainages or culverts.
• Piles must not be placed earlier than the indicated start date.
• The thickest end of the branches should be facing towards the road.
• Do not include rotten wood, as it cannot be put through the chipper.
• Only tree and shrub materials will be chipped (no construction materials/treated wood, leaves, needles, or bark chips).
• Do your best to keep your piles tidy and easy to pull apart.
• Make multiple 1m wide piles rather than one huge one.
• Consider thinning the trees up to a 3-metre tree spacing, and limbing the branches up to 2 metres.
By Steve Hubrecht steve@columbiavalleypioneer.com
Invermere councillors agreed to let the Invermere Pickleball Club use the Mount Nelson Athletic Park (MNAP) courts this season at the same time as it did the past few summers — on Monday to Thursday mornings as well as on Saturday mornings.
The club additionally asked council to use the courts on Friday mornings as well as on some weekday afternoons, to offer a youth program.
There have been clashing views on court space in the past between pickleball players and other user groups — in particular, teens playing basketball. As a result, Invermere councillors turned down the club’s Friday morning request, wanting instead to keep the courts open for public use on those mornings. But
they did agree to let the Pickleball club occupy half the court space on Wednesday afternoons from 3:45 to 5:15 p.m. The other half of the courts will still be open to basketball players or anyone else during that time.
Invermere councillor Gerry Taft pointed out the Wednesday time slot is only one afternoon a week, leaving the other six afternoons free, and that the youth pickleball program targets the same demographic that typically uses the court for basketball anyway.
“It seems fairly reasonable to me,” said Taft.
“The club appreciates the support of the District of Invermere mayor and council and district staff as it launches its junior program and as the sport continues to grow in the community,” pickleball club president Lisa McIntosh said after the decision.
Pedestrian only
Columbia Valley Pioneer staff
The pedestrian only zone will return in downtown Invermere.
The move sees a portion of 12th Street, right beside the cenotaph plaza, closed to vehicle traffic for the summer, with picnic tables, umbrellas, and chairs set out, encouraging people to stop and enjoy Invermere’s downtown.
This summer is the third straight year for the initiative, which has been well received by local officials and local businesses
since it began. A large majority of Columbia Valley residents and tourists interviewed by the Pioneer during the past two summers have been pleased with it too.
This year the pedestrian zone will begin operation on Friday, May 15, just prior to the Victoria Day long weekend, and will continue until the last day of September.
The stretch of 12th Street will be closed several days beforehand, starting on Monday, May 11 to allow District of Invermere public works staff to set up the space.
The Invermere Pickleball Club has once again secured play times at Mount Nelson Athletic Park.
FILE PHOTO
Once again, the stretch of 12th Street will be closed for several days in May.
'Spring Smash' tourney a smash hit
Submitted
The Invermere Pickleball Club’s third annual Spring Smash tournament, held recently at the Invermere Curling Centre, was a tremendous success.
The event welcomed players from Radium, Fairmont, Cranbrook, Golden, Fernie, Kelowna and Alberta for a weekend of competition and community connection. More than 188 players participated in 10 events.
Club players had a particularly strong showing, and the club extends a sincere thank you to the many volunteers who helped make the tournament run smoothly.
In addition to the on-court action, the club’s online auction raised
$11,000 in support of the planned outdoor pickleball facility. The club is especially grateful for the strong support shown by the community and the many local businesses and individuals who contributed items and placed bids.
With more than 200 members and over 4,000 sets of feet hitting the local courts during club play last season, participation in pickleball continues to grow rapidly in Invermere. The club is excited to launch a new junior pickleball program this season as interest from younger players continues to increase.
The club appreciates the support of the District of Invermere mayor and council and district staff as it launches its junior program.
Winners from the 3.5 women's category are (from left) Sandra McCutcheon and Lesley Casselman from Cranbrook (silver), Lori Haynes from Fairmont and Angie Duong from Invermere, and Amy Xu from Kelowna and Nathalie Sieleski from St. Albert.
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Winners from the 3.0 men's category, all local, are (from left) Conrad Journault and John Prest (silver), Colin Sherk and Dave Farrell (gold), Mark Mackay and Harold Pheifer (bronze).
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Valley Voices graced by EMP students
Submitted by Sue Porlier
The Valley Voices choir took to the stage again on May 1-3 with their annual spring concert.
This year’s theme was appropriately “Together in Song” and included both Canadian and world music pieces.
The choir is made up of choristers from Edgewater to Fairmont. They meet once a week under the co-direction of Sue Porlier and Sally Woodard and they are accompanied by Jana Van Urk.
Although not a professional group, the choir offers a cherished activity for many seniors and local choral music lovers in our community.
In the past few years, the choir has been joined by the Eileen Madson Primary children’s choir directed by Claudette Villeneuve.
The children are Grade 2 and 3 students who practise during recess twice a week. Their youthful energy is always enthusiastically received by the audience.
The choir is already eagerly looking forward to their next concert, a prelude to Christmas this December, and extends a warm invitation to all valley residents to attend.
DEVELOPMENT COST CHARGES OPEN HOUSE
Windermere Community Hall 4:00pm – 7:00pm | Tuesday May 26
The RDEK is currently in the process of developing a bylaw to introduce Developer Cost Charges (DCC’s) for the East Side Lake Windermere Water System. DCC’s are a financial mechanism levied against new development in order to fund growth related infrastructure, which in this case is for water infrastructure.
This Open house is for the public and developers to come view some of the key content that will be included in the bylaw and to ask questions. For more information: Tom Smith Engineering Services Manager tsmith@rdek.bc.ca or 778-860-7544
Learn more about this DCC bylaw at engage.rdek.bc.ca/dcc
The Regional District of East Kootenay (RDEK) is looking for interested people to join the Columbia Valley Economic Development Advisory Commission.
The Mandate of the Commission is to provide strategic direction on community economic development priorities that will diversify and strengthen the economy. The current priorities include but are not limited to Workforce Development and Attraction, Sector Development, Infrastructure Development.
To round out the expertise on the Commission, we are looking for people who have experience in agriculture, technology, youth, health care, forestry, manufacturing, arts and culture, building, trades, or tourism.
The appointments to the Commission will be for a two-year term. The Commission will meet four to six time a year.
If you are interested, please submit a letter of application and brief resume including reasons for your interest and related experience to the RDEK.
In person: at the RDEK Offices - 1164 Windermere Loop Road, Windermere or 19-24 Ave S, Cranbrook
Via email: info@rdek.bc.ca
By mail: Regional District of East Kootenay, 19-24 Ave S, Cranbrook BC, V1C 3H8
Application deadline: Thursday May 21, 2026, 5:00pm
Learn more: www.rdek.bc.ca/careers
Members of Valley Voices are joined by Eileen Madson Primary school students in concert.
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Gruelling run for food bank cause
By Steve Hubrecht steve@columbiavalleypioneer.com
Cameron Hartwick moved to Invermere last fall to turn his life around.
And he has, one step at a time, both figuratively and literally.
The figurative steps? He left downtown Ottawa and found a new home on the other side of the country, made new friends, switched careers from the restaurant industry to carpentry, stopped drinking and using hard drugs, lost 40 pounds (18 kilograms), and started getting outdoors for the first time in many years.
The literal steps? Those came on Saturday, May 2 during the Last One Standing backyard ultra marathon in Cranbrook, when Hartwick managed to complete six laps of the endurance race.
The last of these literal steps was a doozy indeed, as Hartwick trod over the finish line for the sixth circuit, then literally collapsed from leg cramps.
“I was bawling my eyes out ... I couldn’t even stand for a while until my legs eventually realized the world wasn’t ending. I’m just finally starting to feel normal again today,” Hartwick told the Pioneer four days after the race.
In a backyard ultra, participants head off the start line with one hour
in which to complete a 6.7 kilometre loop course, usually on single track through rough and rugged terrain. All runners who fail to complete the loop in under an hour are eliminated. Those who finish on time regroup for a second lap, on the same course with the same one-hour time constraint. These laps keep repeating, each on the hour mark, consecutively (so, for instance, if the first lap starts at 9 a.m., the second starts at 10 a.m., the third at 11 a.m., and so on), until just one runner is left.
It’s as gruelling as it sounds, and the only breaks runners get depend on how quickly they finish each lap. For example, if runners go quickly and complete the first lap in 35 minutes, they have 25 minutes to rest before the second loop starts. On the other hand, runners who deliberately pace themselves more carefully, and get the first lap done in 55 minutes, only have a five minute break before they are back on the start line for the second loop.
Is it better to go faster out of the gate in order to get longer breaks? Or wiser to be slower so as to avoid burnout? That kind of strategic consideration plays as much a role in the race as does each individual runner’s physical and mental stamina, how demanding (or easy) the course is, what the weather is like, and — if the event goes on long enough —
how to deal with sleep deprivation (catch a 10-minute nap between laps? Or just keep pushing on?).
Hartwick’s six loops equate to more than 40 kilometres in under six hours. He tried to keep each loop at about 45 minutes. That’s a pretty good clip, and even more so when you consider it’s Hardwick’s first endurance race of any kind. In fact, he only just started hiking — never mind actually running — earlier this spring.
“I definitely could have trained more,” said Hartwick, with considerable understatement.
His race doubled as a fundraiser for the Columbia Valley Food Bank.
When Hartwick was a kid, his family sometimes used a food bank, so he knew firsthand just how valuable a service it provides.
“I wanted to give back to the Columbia Valley community, because the community has been so good to me,” he told the Pioneer. “It’s been a big life change for me. A great chance to hit the reset button.”
Most food banks see the overwhelming bulk of donations come in around Christmas time and Thanksgiving, but the needs of those using the food bank are year-round, explained Hartwick.
“I wanted to help raise a bit of awareness about that, and to hopefully get some funds flowing in (to the Columbia Valley Food Bank) at a
time when normally they don’t,” he said.
Hartwick drummed up interest in his effort the old fashioned way by putting up posters and typing up a letter and going door-to-door around town, collecting pledges. He wasn’t entirely sure how much he’s raised so far, when he spoke with the Pioneer, but knows it’s close to a couple of thousand. Hartwick is hopeful a few more post-race donations push him closer to his goal of raising $3,300. (He chose that figure because he turns 33 this year.)
Visit www.cvfoodbank.ca/donate-to-the-columbia-valley-foodbank/ to donate.
With his appetite whetted, Hartwick may try another backyard ultra in June. “It was approachable. It’s doesn’t feel like a normal marathon,” he said.
That’s in part because the running is done lap by lap, and in part because the uneven, bumpy, hilly nature of the course means that, about half the time, it’s more efficient for participants to simply hike quickly instead of actually run.
Harwick also enjoyed how Last One Standing runners banded together, continually encouraging each other to keep going and finish the lap they were on.
“There was a real sense of camaraderie. It was nice,” he said.
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Cameron Hartwick completed six laps at the recent Last One Standing backyard ultramarathon in Cranbrook, and raised several thousand dollars for the Columbia Valley Food Bank.
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A Day in the Life
Near destitute family seeks better life
Columbia Valley Pioneer staff
Leaving their homeland for a better life made all the difference for one local family that risked it all 47 years ago.
A flood of memories washes over Inga Lipkov as she remembers the decision she and her husband Lev made to leave the Soviet Union in 1979 to improve their quality of life, particularly for their children Yuri and Marianna.
Leaving their birthland was a difficult choice but necessary since Inga and Lev could no longer tolerate the government’s “lies” and their lack of freedom in an undemocratic system where human rights are not respected.
Inga said an historical window existed in the 1970s and 80s when ethnic Jews who wanted to leave the USSR were usually allowed to do so by Soviet authorities. This was ostensibly for humanitarian reasons, but in reality for political expediency, she pointed out.
“It must be emphasized that the Soviet Union adopted an isolationist policy that blocked emigration to non-Communist or non-allied countries for nearly all citizens,” Inga explained. “Even a short tourist trip to a neighbouring socialist country like Bulgaria was a privilege reserved for a select few.”
The Lipkov family’s main hazard was the risk of being denied permission to emigrate after submitting their request to the authorities. “The fate of the so-called ‘refuseniks was unenviable – they were generally not allowed to work in their profession and were ostracized as ‘traitors’ for simply daring to want to live elsewhere,” Inga said.
The family had only one month to sell or give away almost all of their meager possessions accumulated over 40 years of life, and so left the country nearly destitute. Leaving the USSR seemed like a risky decision for the family of five, including Inga’s aging mother Klara Kaplan since Lev was the only one with any
prospect of generating income.
After several months in Europe awaiting Canadian visa approval, they finally arrived in Calgary in September 1979.
“We immediately felt welcomed,” Inga said. A charity organization provided some initial assistance, such as a hotel stay, followed by a rental apartment with an allowance. Lev quickly landed a job with one of the service companies for Calgary’s booming oil industry. Son Yuri attended English-as-a-secondlanguage classes, and within a few months, Inga began working as a piano accompanist for a voice teacher.
“Immigration is never an easy path; one is faced with having to adapt to a completely new environment and a different society, all while learning a foreign language. Lev was lucky to have had a working knowledge of English, while the family and I had to start from nothing.”
But Inga’s ear for music led her to become a notable pianist, educat-
ed in St. Petersburg; first in a special music school and then the worldrenowned Leningrad Conservatory. Her musical disciplines are piano soloist, ensemblist, accompanist, collaborative pianist, and educator.
“I would not call myself famous on the world stage, but I think my work was respected," she said in modesty.
In her years in Calgary, she combined teaching with performing. She had a class of 25 students, and also gave concert recitals with soprano singer Lucy Pildysh, and with violinist Cenek Vrba.
Inga’ mother, also a pianist, lived to the advanced age of 105 before passing away in Invermere in 2013. Marianna, who teaches piano too, now lives with her family in Denver, CO, and Yuri, a geophysicist in Calgary, is married with two daughters. Lev sadly passed away in 2023, but he was an accomplished geologist and a geophysicist. He also had a breadth of experience in the Soviet Arctic under the most difficult conditions. Continued on page 15
A Lipkov family portrait including son Yuri, Lev, Inga, and daughter Marianna. The family left Russia for a better life in Canada 47 years ago.
Leaving Russia behind changed it all
Continued from page 14
Not surprisingly, he had many a harrowing (and humorous) tale to tell. Lev was an enthusiastic alpine skier well into his retirement in the Columbia Valley.
Inga told the Pioneer that her most cherished memories are the 62 years that she spent with her true love, Lev. Thinking back, she found that laughter came too easy for life to pass them by. She recalls one time when Lev instructed her to go to the bank and cash a cheque. Fearfully, she said, “But I don’t know a single word of English!” Lev replied that she didn’t need to know anything; just put the cheque in front of the teller and tell her that you want money. Well, she did what she was told, however, she became like a deer in headlights when the teller asked her what she wanted to do. Did she want to make a deposit? No. Did she want cash? Inga looked at the teller like a confused child. Once again, the teller asked her if she wanted cash. Inga then blurted, “No, I want money!”
No doubt Lev shook his head at that one when she got home.
Good ol’ Lev and the stories he used to tell. Many times he reminisced about Kotelny Island and his field work adventures in the Siberian Arctic. His journals highlight tales of the bitter cold and exchanging hunting ammunition for a few polar fox pelts and some vodka.
Those hunting trips were not what you would call pleasurable, according to Lev’s writings.
“Just imagine yourself closeted for a couple of days in the tight cabin of a roaring diesel monster (tractor) with very rigid suspension creeping forward at four miles per hour,
breathing its exhaust and fumes, (and) crawling on your belly over wet tundra hassocks with rifles at ready trying to get close to the alert caribou herd.”
There was a lasting “hatred” of the canned bully-beef that was permanently implanted deeply into everyone’s genes, but it helped them endure all of the discomforts, Lev admitted.
One time, after roaming the hills for 10 hours in search of caribou, the tractor went through the ice. The hapless hunters limped to shore. Back in the barracks, the crew explained the mishap to the manager and outlined a solution: recover the tractor and bring it back into operation for half a case (six bottles) of vodka. In a foul mood, the manager refused, stubborn as he was. So, the perturbed crew said no vodka, no hauling, which ended in a stalemate. The manager was later transferred somewhere else and the subject became moot. However, in the spring, the crew attached a long steel cable to the tractor and pulled it out, overhauled the engine, replaced all of the electrical wiring, and after some negotiation with the new manager, exchanged it for a case of vodka and some badly needed spare parts for their vehicles.
So, you see, all roads lead to vodka in the high Arctic. In fact, the quoted amount (one bottle) of vodka allocated to members of the “proletariat” (workers) would “knock the average Canadian senseless under the table.” But for the average “Polarnik” (polar explorer) this would be a mere starter, like having a couple of Caesars before dinner, Lev wrote.
Did you know...
Inga and Lev Lipkov took the bold step in leaving the USSR in 1979 for better opportunities.
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Inga's mother Klara Kaplan.
PHOTO SUBMITTED
Student chef turns heads in contest
By Steve Hubrecht steve@columbiavalleypioneer.com
If anyone in the Columbia Valley knows their way around a chicken chasseur, it’s Ashton Walker.
After all, the David Thompson Secondary School (DTSS) Grade 12 student has spent the past several months making the classic French hunter’s stew over and over (and over) again.
Ashton practised slavishly to perfect the hearty dish because it was on the menu when he took part in the Skills Canada British Columbia cooking competition provincials in Abbotsford in April.
The contest brings together some of the best secondary school and post secondary school students across B.C. in a variety of trade-andtechnology oriented disciplines (including, for instance, welding, hairstyling, landscaping, carpentry, mobile robotics and cooking).
In the secondary school category of the cooking competition Ashton squared off against eight other high school chefs from other parts of B.C., who had all qualified for provincials through regional contests.
With a tightly set timeframe, Ashton and the other competitors each butchered a chicken, demonstrated knife skills, and cooked an Andalusian gazpacho (a cold tomato soup) and the chasseur (using the chicken pieces they’d just butchered).
While the clock ticked down, judges scrutinized the students, analyzing their speed, technique, cleanliness, food safe practices, their cooking uniforms, and more. Although there were recipes to fol-
low for the soup and stew, the teens had leeway to be creative, especially in the presentation of the dishes, and in what kind of carbohydrates and vegetable sides to add (and just how to make those sides).
Once the time was up, the dishes were whisked away for a short public presentation window, then carried on to the judges, who rated the victuals anonymously.
“It was super fun. I was pretty nervous going in. I thought it would be stressful to have so many people watching me cook,” Ashton told the Pioneer. But when competition began “I sort of locked in, zoned out and could only think about the food in front of me. That was the only thing on my mind.”
“It’s very strict. You need excellent time management,” said DTSS chef instructor and teacher Andrea Salzbrenner.
Ashton isn’t 100 per cent sure how he fared in the competition. Medals were only given for first, second and third place, and he didn’t get one of those. But he does know he did pretty darn well — only about half the field of participants managed to finish before the deadline, including him, and several senior people involved with the competition told Ashton how impressed they were at his performance, particularly given that he was at the contest for the first time.
Salzbrenner has been a culinary arts teacher at DTSS for 13 years, and this is the first time she or her fellow chef instructor Stephanie Howell-Fellows have had a student go to the Skills Canada provincials. There have been a few other students in the past that had the talent to do so, but none wanted to spend
dozens and dozens of extra hours of their own time practising in the lead-up to the contest.
“It takes the right kind of student to do a competition like this. You need to not only be passionate about cooking, but you need that internal drive. You have to be independent and dedicated,” said Salzbrenner.
Ashton certainly ticks all of those boxes. He grew up in a big family, and got into cooking as a kid, helping his grandma bake chocolate chip cookies and prepare family dinners and potlucks. DTSS is the only high school in B.C. east of Salmon Arm with a commercial kitchen for its culinary arts program, and when Ashton walked into the facility for the first time, in Grade 10, he was amazed.
“The creativity I saw in there ... I fell in love with it,” he said.
Ashton stuck with the program right through high school, and earlier this year he was accepted to the Southern Alberta Institute of Technology (SAIT)’s cooking school. It’s one of the top chef schools in Canada, and after graduating he plans to become a Red Seal chef, and then perhaps one day open his own restaurant.
He’ll start at SAIT in September and is excited.
“It will be a great way to open my eyes to other cultures and other ways of cooking that I haven’t tasted or baked yet,” said Ashton.
In the meantime, having eaten it many, many times recently, Ashton family’s has grown to enjoy a good bowl of chicken chasseur.
DTSS Grade 12 student Ashton Walker has much support from family, friends, and mentors as he pursues his passion for culinary arts.
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Ashton Walker prepares a dish under the watchful eye of a judge during competition. PHOTO SUBMITTED
Local First Nations, Métis, students and other Columbia Valley residents gathered in downtown Invermere on Tuesday, May 5 (National Red Dress Day) in remembrance of
murdered Indigenous women, girls, and 2SLGBTQI+ people.
PHOTO JENNY HUBRECHT
ANNOUNCEMENTS
NEW BROKERAGE! NEW TEAM!
GERRY TAFT
250.341.1202
ROBIN SHMIGELSKY
250.342.1548
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.
Cheers to Anne Zurbriggen for escorting a senior to the hospital during and after her medical procedure. Your caring nursing expertise was very much appreciated.
CHEERS CHEERS
Cheers to Wes Raven for the great job looking after my yard.
Cheers to Dr. Radermacher for squeezing me into her busy schedule. Much appreciated.
Cheers to all the staff at OK Tire in Invermere. I had a huge repair possibility. They found it was a simple problem and fixed it right away for a fraction of the cost I expected. Such honesty is refreshing!
Cheers to Copper City Dental. I called with an urgent dental care issue, and they were able to get me in the same day. Dr. Parkin is kind and compassionate and his staff are great too. They went above and beyond to provide the care and assurance I needed. Special shout out to Leslie who has been amazing to deal with! Cheers to Wendi Ede for selling me such a great assortment of puzzles. Can’t wait to start working on them. Cheers to head librarian Blair McFarlane for service above and beyond books. Your continued efforts are greatly appreciated. The rest of the staff is also to be commended for making the library such a happy place.
Cheers to Gilian, Jai and Anna for winning at the Enactus Nationals Competition. We are so proud of you! Good luck at the World Cup in Brazil!
Cheers to Bill Robinson for your incredibly kind gesture. Our family is grateful for what you did to help our mom.
Cheers to Cheri Hann for dropping of treats and fresh flowers from your garden. The tulips are beautiful; so bright and cheery.
Cheers to the Edgewater Seniors for a delicious Mother’s Day pancake breakfast...delightful.
Cheers to Patrick from Wilmer for finding and returning my lost iPad. Honest people like Patrick are exactly what makes our community so great. Right on!
LOST & FOUND
Lost in Invermere on April 30. Silver drop earring with turquoise stone. Has sentimental value. If found, please call Shirley: 236-330-1230
IKEA crib with mattress $120 Evenflo highchair $50 Evenflo portable playpen $70 Grandma selling. All in good condition. CASH only please. Ph 250-345-0157
K. B. Creations
Handyman services, Renovations, Masonry, Plumbing, Drywall & Painting. Please call Kevin 250-688-2897
LESSONS
SWIM LESSONS at Fairmont Hot Springs with Rocky Mountain Swim Lessons. Book online at www. rockymountainswimlessons.ca
Employment Opportunity Seasonal Labourer
Village’s Public Works infrastructure.
The usual hours of work are 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., five days per week (40 hours/week). Limited evening and weekend work may be required. Wage range $23.00 - $ 27.00 per hour, depending on experience.
The full job description is available on request.
Deadline to apply – This posting remains open until a suitable candidate is hired. Applications (or questions regarding the position) may be sent to the attention of: Michael Glavin, Director of Engineering and Public Works: depw@radiumhotsprings.ca
Village of Radium Hot Springs P.O. Box 340, 4836 Radium Blvd, Radium Hot Springs, B.C., ph: 250-347-6455 fax: 250-347-9068
LANDSCAPING HELP NEEDED
Full-time all summer, can start immediately. Competitive wages. Apply at terravistagm@gmail.com
If you:
Labourer Wanted
• are a hard worker
• are eager to learn
• have reliable transportation to Radium
• want full time hours ( 7:30-4:00PM )
• can start May 19
Hourly rate $20-$23, based on experience. Send your resume to: kevin@trcprojects.ca
FAITH
All things are truly possible
By Pastor Wayne Frater Radium Christian Fellowship Church
In Mark 9:23 Jesus said “If you can believe, all things are possible to him who believes.”
From believing comes saying, when those around you talk about the price of gas, taxes, the weather, the economy, the possibility of losing their job, what are you saying?
When you hear of terror threats, world war, drought, famine and all kinds of possible danger, what are you saying?
When the doctor states the prognosis, what are you saying?
When your mind tells you that nothing in your circumstances will ever change, what are you saying?
In the world as we know it today, what is the one thing we can be sure of? The word of God. And you know what, it is time to replace our words with God's word.
You may not believe in God, however, he is real, his word the Bible is full of promises, and he asks us to believe in him and his word.
He has the answer to every problem, every
circumstance the enemy tries to throw at us. It is time for us to replace our words with God's word, if we want to see his promises come to pass in our life, we have to learn to use his words.
God's word is our infallible guide.
We need to renew our minds with God’s irresistible word.
Let’s take our position with God’s word as our weapon and our refuge, God's word will never fail us.
Nothing can stand in the way of the words that God speaks.
There is no force in the universe that can refute, come against, or deny the power in God’s irresistible and irrefutable word.
There is no force strong enough to nullify God’s word.
The Bible is God’s word; no word of his is void of power or impossible to fulfillment.
If you are interested in what I am saying come check us out Sunday mornings at 11 for muffins, coffee, Bible study and prayer. If you need a Bible we have them also. Blessings Thrift Store in Radium Hot Springs has a good selection from testaments to large print complete Bibles, and they are free of charge. Just like salvation is a gift, all we have to do is believe and receive.
Romans 10:9 tells us “That if you confess with your mouth the Lord Jesus and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved.”
Columbia Valley Churches
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) Sundays at 10:30 either in-person or online (the link is available on our website – wvsm.ca) Minister: Brent Woodard 110 - 7th Ave. in Invermere 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)
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
JESUS IS LORD CHURCH, INVERMERE
Sunday Service: 10:30am 1310 7th Ave Invermere (Invermere Inn Hotel) Pastor: Barkley Bayani 250-341-5160
J.A. Laird Elementary School students marked April (Canada’s national poetry month) with a poet-tea celebration last week.
PHOTO JENNY HUBRECHT
