VALLEY VIEWS
The Columbia Valley Rockies are currently looking for families interested in becoming billet families for the upcoming hockey season. The team is in need of permanent billet families for the full season, as well as 10 temporary billet beds available until the middle of September.
Families will receive a monthly stipend of $850 to help offset the cost of housing a player.
If you’re interested in becoming part of the Rockies family and making a difference in a player’s season, or would like more information please reach out to cvrockies.coach@gmail.com
Invermere bylaw enforcement to change
By Steve Hubrecht steve@columbiavalleypioneer.com
The District of Invermere plans to tweak how it deals with people breaking local bylaws.
Invermere councillors recently gave three readings to a new enforcement bylaw which lays out which breaches get tickets, sets new bylaw fines (and new timelines to pay those fines), appoints screening officers to check disputed bylaw tickets, and will see the district join the Regional District of East Kootenay (RDEK)’s bylaw adjudication registry once Invermere is added to the province’s adjudication system.
The main problem with the way Invermere currently handles bylaw
enforcement is that any disputed tickets must go to provincial court.
Because it is provincial court, the district must make its case with “a burden of proof beyond a reasonable doubt,” explained District of Invermere staff member Abbe Teasdale. This means that for a disputed noise complaint ticket, for instance, “you need the same documentation and evidence as you need for a criminal matter ... for a $100 (bylaw) fine that is a lot of (district) staff time,” she noted.
Going to court is also costly, and for these reasons, bylaw breaches sometimes go unenforced, Teasdale pointed out.
Also under Invermere’s current system, the bylaw officer must
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serve the ticket to the offender face to face, something that is not always possible, let alone practical for Invermere bylaw officer Tyler Inwood, said Teasdale.
It’s a cumbersome system, and one that 145 other B.C. municipalities have already circumvented by either setting up their own bylaw adjudication registry, or joining a regional one.
Under the proposed new system, bylaw tickets could be sent by mail or electronically. Offenders can pay or can dispute the ticket. If they dispute it, the case will be reviewed by a District of Invermere screening officer. If that does not resolve the issue, it will go on further to a provincially appointed independent
adjudicator.
If offenders pay the fine early (within 14 days, for example), they will pay a lower fine. If they pay between 14 and 30 days, they’ll pay the normal amount. And if they pay late (after 30 days, for instance) the fine will be higher.
Teasdale explained that the new system would apply mostly to minor bylaw infractions — major ones will still go through provincial court.
“It’s a faster, friendly way to resolve bylaw disputes,” summed up Teasdale.
Invermere councillors like the new system. “It’s a good way to go forward if our bylaws are to have any teeth,” said Invermere mayor Al Miller.
Garage Sale Garage Sale
Saturday, July 25 9:00am - 1:00pm 2133 - 14th Ave., Invermere Door #2
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Peters Hill fire extinguished
Columbia Valley Pioneer staff
A local homeowner is raising concerns about human encampments on Crown land in relation to wildfires, particularly the one sparked in Invermere on July 15.
Lisa Lehr told the Pioneer that the 0.1 hectare blaze near Peters Hill at Toby Creek was not far from her residence.
“There is an encampment close to where the fire was started. This is the second fire this year,” she said. (However, local authorities did not confirm that the fire was linked to the encampment.)
The BC Wildfire Service (BCWS) reported that the fire is now out and will not spread past what has already been burned. Officials suspect it was human caused.
The Pioneer contacted Invermere Fire Rescue Chief Jason Roe, whose crews were on scene. He would only say that the fire was on Crown land and that the BCWS was the lead agency in the investigation.
Lehr said the only thing that can be done in regards to encampments is to report them on the RAPP line (Report all Poachers and Polluters) and contact the local MLA.
Sioban Staplin, constituency advisor for Columbia River-Revelstoke MLA Scott McInnis, told the Pioneer that the MLA is well aware of the July 15 incident and the ongoing issue of encamp-
ments on Crown land.
She said their office will be working with the East Kootenay Forest Task Force to address issues in the Columbia Valley. She added they will be coordinating a town hall meeting soon to inform people and organize a response.
Staplin said a key component is to identify a regional coordinator and recruit volunteers, while looking for participation from the regional district, foresty, social development, and poverty reduction representatives.
“We need to continue to pressure the natural resource officers and conservation officers to enforce the camping limits, but their capacity is stretched thin,” she told the Pioneer
Lehr said she reached out to Invermere mayor Al Miller, who said:
“The issues of crown land and encampments have certainly been frustrating for years. I have no answers, only empathy for those living close to them.”
Council has spoken to the RCMP about the issue, but no plan of action has been agreed upon. The Pioneer reached out to the Columbia Valley RCMP but did not get a response by press time.
Miller said moving the people in the encampment every two weeks is not the answer.
Lehr said there needs to be pressure from the public to prevent future wildfires and illegal dumping in the backcountry.
The fire near Peters Hill on July 15 had the potential to be very serious. Fortunately, fire crews stopped it from spreading larger than 0.1 hectares. Officials suspect it was human caused.
PHOTO SUBMITTED
Ridge Road project sees more tweaks
By Steve Hubrecht steve@columbiavalleypioneer.com
Planners have made more tweaks to the planned Ridge Road purpose-built rental housing project in Radium Hot Springs.
The project is intended to help the village deal with its housing shortage — in particular its lack of long-term rental housing and its lack of affordable housing.
Local officials and planning consultants have been working on the project for more than a year and a half, stretching to when the village purchased the four acres of land on which the housing will be built on in north Radium.
This past spring, consultants 2B Developments offered an initial glimpse of what the 48-unit housing project could look like. Since then, these plans have been changed, and now changed again, to incorporate feedback from both Radium councillors and residents.
The latest iteration of Ridge Road was presented by 2B Developments senior project manager Nick Lorraway during the July 13 council meeting, and is meant to address concerns (from the public and local officials) that the project looks too much like a motel.
The tweaks include significant changes to the building’s facade, and altered lighting, windows and landscaping.
Radium officials generally liked the changes they saw, judging
from their comments.
“It’s much warmer. It’s more inviting. I like the changes,” said councillor Erin Palashniuk.
“I think it does a much better job of answering the community’s concerns. This (building) now looks very much like something that fits in our community,” said Radium mayor Mike Gray.
He added the building’s aesthetics were a major worry for multiple residents.
“But this is a big step. I’m very pleased with where we’re at,” said Gray.
He wondered, though, how much extra the new changes would cost, and if they fit within the project budget.
“I’d hate to put (these concept images) to the community, then end up with something quite different because we can can’t afford (the changes depicted in the latest update),” he emphasized.
Lorraway cautioned that further changes could in fact come as the development process winds on, but did say “I feel good that it (the final project) should be able to meet the level that those images are suggesting.”
He was glad Radium councillors are at last happy with the design, saying “now that we have more or less aligned on what this will look like, we can move fairly quickly.”
Lorraway is confident the project will seek a development permit later this summer.
NOTICE OF SHORT-TERM RENTAL TEMPORARY USE PERMIT APPLICATIONS UNDER DISTRICT OF INVERMERE CONSIDERATION
PUBLIC SURVEY
The Regional District of East Kootenay, Town of Golden, and Columbia Shuswap Regional District Area A are gathering public input on time observance through a regional survey.
This survey will gather broad public feedback to help inform future decisionmaking. The results will not determine the outcome on their own. Any future decision will also need to consider other factors, including legislative and implementation considerations.
COMPLETE THE SURVEY: engage.rdek.bc.ca/timechange 250-489-2791
Pursuant to Section 494 of the Local Government Act, public notice is hereby given that the District of Invermere is considering the Short-Term Rental Temporary Use Permits (STR-TUP) listed in the table below. Issuance of the permits will be considered by council or a delegated authority at the Invermere District office at 914 - 8th Avenue in Invermere, BC, at the corresponding date and time as listed below:
Consideration by COUNCIL - AUGUST 11, 2026 at 7:00PM
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 Invermere office at 914 - 8th Avenue, Invermere, BC, or by email to planning@invermere.net prior to Tuesday, August 4, 2026 at 10:00AM. All submissions should include your name, address, and contact information. All written submissions are public information pursuant to the Freedom of Information and Protection of Privacy Act. All submissions will form part of the public record. Questions about the disclosure of your personal information may be referred to the Corporate Officer at 250342-9281.
For more information regarding the above applications contact the Invermere Planning Department at 250-342-9281 or by email at planning@invermere.net or at the Invermere Office between the hours of 8:30 AM and 4:30 PM, Monday to Friday, excluding statutory holidays. PO Box 339, 914 - 8th Ave, Invermere BC V0A 1K0 250-342-9281 info@invermere.net www.invermere.net
The latest changes to the Ridge Road project are meant to make it look less like a motel. Screenshots from Radium council documents
Nurses need our support
Many people stand behind nurses and their fight for better (and safer) working conditions in British Columbia.
If you’ve ever been on the receiving end of a nurse during a challenging hospital stay, you know they are worth their weight in gold. Some people call them angels in disguise, taking care of our every need. But while they are looking after us, who’s looking after them?
Sadly, a nurse’s workplace isn’t ideal, with many reports of staffing shortages, patient violence, and intimidation (by some employers), which is totally unacceptable.
Unfortunately, it has come down to job action and picketing, which seems to be the only way nurses can influence change for better pay and working conditions.
Why should nurses compromise their own safety? If they get hurt on the job, they can’t provide quality healthcare, resulting in staff shortages. The provincial government should realize this and end the dispute with a fair contract addressing these issues. Sure, it’s going to cost more, but our health is worth it. Besides, a Band-Aid that keeps falling off won’t heal an infected wound.
Nurses have been delivering care in Canada for more than 100 years, predating the iconic Florence Nightingale. While history highlights the work of French Catholic and British nurses, it alludes to Indigenous healers delivering care long before Europeans settled in Canada. These healers competently used medicinal plants to treat various ailments. In one historical account dating back to the 1800s, an Indigenous healer reportedly cured a woman of intestinal infection by giving her white prairie flowers in a tea. Subsequently, colonialism suppressed these healing practices and began eradicating Indigenous culture altogether.
Today, modern medicine has changed a great deal, but it hasn’t changed the dedication and compassion that nurses bring to work every day to ease our medical burdens. They should never have to rely on job action to improve our healthcare system that is under stress already.
Lyonel Doherty, editor
Lyonel Doherty
Christina Boucher
VALLEY NEWS
Max's diabetes fundraiser another success
Columbia Valley Pioneer staff
It was another successful Canada Day of fundraising for Invermere teen Max LeBlanc.
Max, a soon-to-be Grade 9 student at David Thompson Secondary School (DTSS) was diagnosed with Type 1 diabetes when he was two. He’s been running his own annual fundraiser to help find a cure on July 1 for six years.
This year Max and his crew of family and friends raised more than $5,100 selling tacos, sangria, beer and lemonade in downtown Invermere.
A kind matching donor added another $5,100 for a total of more than $10,200 raised. Collective-
ly, Max has been able to raise more than $48,000 over the past six years.
“The day was incredible. It was really fun despite the weather,” Max’s mom Jody told the Pioneer, adding many of the same people return to the fundraiser year after year, and that line-ups still stretched down the sidewalk this year as in years past even though there was a fair bit of rain this time.
The LeBlancs extend a big thank you to local residents and visitors who supported the fundraiser and Birchwood and ULLR staff who volunteered to help out.
Max has inspired others with his determination to make a difference as one youth. Imagine what many youth could do with a cause.
Max LeBlanc raised more than $10,200 this year in his annual Canada Day fundraiser for Type 1 diabetes. PHOTO SUBMITTED
EXPRESSION OF INTEREST Property Management Services
The Shuswap Band is inviting qualified property management companies to submit an Expression of Interest (EOI) to provide property management services for our off reserve properties that include:
• Parson School – Parson, BC
• Two Residential Homes – Invermere, BC
Services include regular property inspections, preventative maintenance coordination (lawn care, snow removal, seasonal maintenance), contractor coordination, emergency response, and property reporting.
Interested proponents should submit a company profile, relevant experience, references, proposed management approach, and fee schedule.
Submission Deadline: August 20, 2026
For additional information or to submit an Expression of Interest, please contact:
Shuswap Band – Lands Department
Email: sstump@shuswapband.ca
The Shuswap Band reserves the right to accept or reject any or all submissions and is under no obligation to proceed with this Expression of Interest.
PERMISSIVE PROPERTY TAX EXEMPTION FOR 2027
Applications are now open for organizations seeking a Permissive Property Tax Exemption on 2027 property taxes.
Application forms are available at the Municipal Office (914 – 8th Avenue, Invermere) and on our website at www.invermere.net under Local Government / Document Library / Applications and Forms / 2027 Permissive Tax Exemption Application.
A Permissive Tax Exemption is a means for Council to support organizations within the community that further Council’s objectives of enhancing quality of life and the delivery of services economically. Approval is strictly at the discretion of District of Invermere Council, in accordance with the Community Charter
Eligible Organizations
Not-for-profit organizations
Charitable or philanthropic organizations
Athletic or service clubs or associations
• Licensed Community care facilities or private hospitals
• Municipal partners by agreement under s. 225 of the Community Charter
Other local authorities
• Organizations eligible under s. 220 statutory exemption (e.g., public worship, senior homes, hospitals)
Application Deadline: August 14, 2026 at 4:30 pm local time. Late submissions will not be accepted.
For more information, please contact the Municipal Office at 250.342.9281.
Karen
Coté Director
of Finance
Local woman wins award for conservation principles
By Lorene Keitch, Wildsight
Surrounded by mementos of a life spent exploring the great wide world, and with sweeping views over the Columbia Wetlands outside her windows, Baiba Morrow was recognized recently for a lifetime of environmental stewardship and conservation leadership.
Friends and fellow advocates, many connected through decades of shared conservation work, filled Pat and Baiba Morrow’s living room this June to celebrate Morrow as the recipient of the 2026 Ellen Zimmerman Award .
If you’re lucky enough to know her, the honour comes as little surprise.
Presented annually by Wildsight, the Ellen Zimmerman Award recognizes a woman who has made outstanding contributions to environmental conservation and education in the Upper Columbia Basin. The award honours the legacy of the late Ellen Zimmerman, a tireless advocate for the Columbia Wetlands, women’s rights and future generations.
“There could be no better recipient than Baiba,” Wildsight Executive Director Robyn Duncan told those gathered to celebrate.
Duncan noted that Morrow's environmental advocacy began long before she and Pat moved to the Columbia Valley nearly 20 years ago, with conservation efforts in B.C.’s Stein River Valley and Alberta’s Bow Valley. Shortly after moving to Wilmer, a small, close-knit community just north of Invermere, she spent 12 years as president of Wildsight Invermere. Notable amongst her countless achievements, Morrow helped spearhead the Wild & Scenic Film Festival (the branch’s biggest annual fundraiser, now in its 13th year), supported the restoration of an abused local recreational lake, as well as quietly recruited an entire new generation of volunteers. She also served on Wildsight’s regional board for multiple years.
Duncan described Morrow's “big tent” approach, bringing people together through shared values, welcoming newcomers and encouraging everyone to contribute in whatever way they can.
“We are all very much richer for having you here, as part of the Wildsight community, and as an advocate and defender of this incredible place," reflected Duncan.
Current Wildsight Invermere president Tracy Flynn laughed as she recalled becoming one of Morrow's recruits.
“She kind of commandeered me and said, ‘Hey, you should be part of Wildsight.'”
Flynn added that the organization continues to benefit from her mentorship, institutional knowledge and ability to spot future volunteers. "We wouldn’t survive without Baiba’s influence.”
For Morrow, building community has long been as important as protecting landscapes.
When she stepped down as Wildsight Invermere president in 2023, Morrow reflected that years of travelling and documenting mountain cultures around the world had only deepened her appreciation for the place she now calls home.
“I feel a very, very strong connection to this place,” she said at the time. “Having travelled for so many years … knowing the value of that connection to place … it puts this area into perspective, how precious it is.”
She also described leadership as working alongside people.
“I feel like we’re a team, and you just do what you have to do,” she said. One of her goals, she explained then, was to “create a footprint where it makes it easier for the next person.”
That philosophy was evident in Morrow's acceptance speech. Instead of reflecting on her own accomplishments, she turned the spotlight back to the roomful of people gathered who helped build and sustain Wildsight Invermere, from founding members and longtime volunteers to current board members, monthly donors and supporters who continue to carry the work forward.
“The roots go deep. That’s what we rely on,” she said, adding that while she was deeply honoured with the award, “I’m surrounded by people who are doers. Who are part of the community. Who are passionate. It’s humbling, really."
She ended by turning attention away from the room and sweeping her hand toward the sparkling waters of the Columbia Wetlands outside.
“And of course there’s this place,” she said. “It keeps us going. It reminds us of what we have and what needs to be protected.”
Those who nominated her for the award described a calm, steady approach to leadership.
“Baiba is one of those quiet people who just gets the job done,” wrote friend Joan Gallaway in her nomination. “She has been a champion for environmental and conservation initiatives all her life and will continue as such in the future. The world needs more Baiba.”
Baiba Morrow is the recipient of the 2026 Ellen Zimmerman Award. PHOTO PAT MORROW
Thursday July 23
10:00 -11:00am - Seniors Fitness Columbia Valley Centre. Doors open 9:30 for warm-ups and indoor walking $2 drop-in. Please note: classes may be moved to Invermere Seniors Hall when the Columbia Valley Centre is booked for larger events.
10:15am - 1:00pm - Tech Time with CBAL. Invermere Public Library. Contact us to book a one-on-one tech help appointment.
1:00pm - Storytime in Canal Flats. Canal Flats Lions Park . Join us for stories, songs and a craft. Geared towards preschool age, but all welcome to attend. 1:30pm - Floor Curling at the Invermere Seniors Hall.
1:45 - 2:45pm - Summer Reading Club in Canal Flats. Canal Flats Lions Park Park. For kids in grade 1-7. One-time registration required. Free program with crafts, games and fun!
2:00pm - Novel Idea Book Club - Invermere Public Library. This month we’re reading The Borrowed Life of Frederick Fife by Anna Johnston. Stop by the library to pick up your copy, or request a large print. All welcome to attend.
6:45pm - Texas Hold'em Poker Invermere Legion, $30 buy-in.
7:00 - 9:00pm - Adults Drop-In Improv Theatre - Thursday nights at the Invermere Seniors Hall. It’s pay what you can with a suggested minimum of $10. All levels of interest and experience welcome, including people who have never tried it before.
Friday July 24
9:00am - Tennis for Everyone - Columbia Valley Mixed Doubles Tennis, Rotary Park Tennis Courts.
10:30-11:00 - Pop-Up Story Time - Columbia House Healing Garden! 10:3011:00am. Join us for stories, songs and a craft. Geared towards preschool age, but all welcome to attend.
1:00pm - Duplicate Bridge at the Invermere Seniors Hall.
6:30pm - Meat Draw and 50/50 in the Legion. Members and guests welcome.
Saturday July 25
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 July 26
2:00pm - Cribbage and Darts Come to the Legion and have some fun! Members and guests welcome.
Monday July 27
9:00am - Tennis for Everyone - Columbia Valley Mixed Doubles Tennis, Rotary Park Tennis Courts.
10:00 -11:00am - Seniors Yoga Columbia Valley Centre. Doors open 9:30 for warm-ups and indoor walking $2 drop-in. Please note: classes may be moved to Invermere Seniors Hall when the Columbia Valley Centre is booked for larger events.
1:30pm - Cribbage & Darts at Invermere Seniors Hall.
6:30pm - Fun Bridge at Invermere Seniors Hall.
At Dark - Movies in the Mountains - Starts at dark Enjoy free movies every Monday evening throughout July and August in Pothole Park. Presented by the District of Invermere. Bring your lawn chairs, blankets and cash for the on site concession.
Tuesday July 28
10:00-11:00am - Seniors Fitness Columbia Valley Centre. Doors open 9:30 for warmups and indoor walking $2 drop-in. Please note: classes may be moved to Invermere Seniors Hall when the Columbia Valley Centre is booked for larger events. 11:00am - 12:30pm - Summer Reading Club - Invermere Public Library. Free
program with crafts, games and fun! One-time registration required. Ages 5-8 @ 11am-12:30pm (5 year olds must be finished kindergarten to attend) Ages 9-12 @ 2pm-3:30pm.
6:30 - 8:00pm - Second Winds Community Band Practises every Tuesday at the Catholic Church in Invermere. New members are welcome.
Wednesday July 29
9:00am - Tennis for Everyone - Columbia Valley Mixed Doubles Tennis, Rotary Park Tennis Courts.
10:00 -11:00am - Seniors Yoga
Centre. Doors
9:30
2:00 -3:00pm
See you at the Big Book Sale on August 1
Submitted
“The Big Book Sale is the highlight of our summer.”
“I plan my vacation around the Big Book Sale."
“My whole family waits for the Big Book Sale.”
The Friends of the Invermere Library hear comments like these every summer.
Local and visiting book lovers can’t wait for the 18th annual Big Book Sale on Saturday, August 1. As usual, thousands of gently used books sorted into dozens of categories will be offered at bargain prices.
But there are a few changes and upgrades this year. The 2026 Big Book Sale takes place in the comfort of the Columbia Valley Centre.
COVID required the sale to move outside, which volunteers and customers enjoyed, but threats of heat, smoke and rain were stressful. Now, after five successful outdoor sales, the Friends of the Library are pleased to present the event inside the centre.
The layout of the sale has been carefully planned to give everyone space to select their books.
Big Book Sale hours are extended this year, running from 8:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. to give everyone more opportunities to hunt for special volumes.
The Friends prefer customers to buy books with cash to maximize the benefit to the library. However, in keeping with our technical age, there will be an opportunity to pay for books with credit and debit cards.
Whether your book interests are mystery, historical fiction, cooking, Canadian authors, travel, arts, romance, non-fiction or many other categories, the Big Book Sale will have books for you. The kids’ section has books for children of all ages, from board books for babies to teen novels and fantasy.
Mark Saturday, August 1 on your calendar and be at the Columbia Valley Centre at 646-4th Street for the Big Book Sale.
All funds raised support the Invermere Public Library programs.
Bull Riding in the Rockies no bull, but all bull
By Amanda Nason
The 26th annual Bull Riding in the Rockies is quite simply, no bull!
Held on Friday, July 17, the event is the biggest fundraiser of the year for our Columbia Valley Rockies hockey team.
As the saying goes, they sell you the whole seat, but you only need the edge!
Every time a rider burst out of the gate, the crowd was on the edge of their seats, cheering through every thrilling eight-second ride and heart-stopping moment. One of the highlights, of course, was the cowboy poker event, sponsored
hombres fly every which way but loose!
From the excitement in the arena to the incredible community support, Bull Riding in the Rockies again proved why it's one of the Columbia Valley's most anticipated events of the summer.
Hats off to everyone who attended, volun
A lot of thrills and spills entertained the crowds at the 26th annual Bull Riding in the Rockies on July 17.
PHOTOS AMANDA NASON
PIONEER CLASSIFIEDS
It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Lorraine Ann (Chatson) Ross. Lorraine passed away on July 12th, at the Kimberley Special Care Home in Kimberley, B.C., with her husband Cecil at her side.
Lorraine was born in Kimberley, B.C. to Ken and Hazel Chatson on April 13, 1941. Lorraine married Cecil Ross in 1959 and moved to Alberta in 1967. They lived in Calgary where they raised their three daughters, and returned to the East Kootenay in 1998. They settled in Invermere, B.C. to be close to their daughter Nancy (Wilfley) and their grandson James (Wilfley). They enjoyed being back in B.C. and were happy to be close to family in Kimberley.
Lorraine enjoyed volunteering for the Windermere and Invermere Ladies Auxiliary, where she made many lasting friendships.
Lorraine’s happy place was spending time with her family. She loved gardening and was a phenomenal cook.
Lorraine leaves to mourn her passing her husband of 67 years, Cecil Ross, and her daughters Debra (Barry), Nancy (Chuck), and Catherine (Mike).
She will be fondly remembered by her grandchildren James (Alyssa), Jessica (Rob), and Garth (McKayla); great grandchildren Riley, Gabriella, and Charlotte; sister Janice (Mike); nieces and nephews Tracy (Al), Shawn, Clayton, Jean (Glen), and James; and sisters-in-law Catherine (Bill) and Juanita.
She is predeceased by her beloved parents Kenneth and Hazel, and her brother Brock, sister Marie, brother-in-law, Mike, and nephew Brent.
Lorraine gave us a lifetime of love and memories, and we will cherish them.
There is no service as per Lorraine’s request. A family Celebration of Life will be a held at a later date.
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.
K. B. Creations
Handyman services, Renovations, Masonry, Plumbing, Drywall & Painting. Please call Kevin 250-688-2897
-2 MEC Venture kayaks w paddles & life jackets-$1250. -1 Pelican Canoe w paddles and back support seats-$500. -2 Tennis Rackets $60 250-341-3342
Cheers to Yvonne C, our Elder Representative for the great job you are doing by keeping us informed.
Pfrunder
In Loving Memory of James
Ten years have passed since James left us. He was 36 years old, and Odessa, his daughter, was just 9 months old.
Born on June 19, 1980, in Brisbane, Australia, James moved to Melbourne, Australia, after university, then to Banff, Alberta, for his love of the mountains. In 2014, he moved to Invermere, British Columbia, with his partner, Zara.
A Chartered Accountant by profession, James worked at Sunshine Village and Panorama Mountain Resort so he could ski during his breaks, and later with Interior Health and the Provincial Government as a public servant.
James truly came alive in the outdoors. He loved climbing, mountaineering, skiing, biking, sailing, motorbiking, camping, skating, and paragliding. Adventure was part of who he was. When it came to skiing, he loved every form of it: downhill, telemark, backcountry, classic cross-country, and skate skiing. When it came to climbing, he loved every form of that too: trad climbing, bouldering, ice climbing, scrambling, mountaineering, and even climbing the mast of a sailing boat.
He was involved in exploring and developing new rock climbing routes in the Grampians, Australia, and was one of the founders of Crux magazine, Australia’s only climbing magazine at the time. After moving to Invermere, he volunteered with the Columbia Valley Cycling Society. At home, James enjoyed cooking, barbecuing, hosting friends, listening to music, reading classic novels, tinkering with his bike, and taking on home renovation projects. He was always planning the next project or the next adventure.
His greatest adventure was becoming a father. Odessa was the centre of his world. He embraced every part of fatherhood—from late-night diaper changes and baby sign language to taking her hiking in a baby backpack. Although his time with her was far too short, the love he had for his daughter continues to shape the life she is living today.
Ten years later, James is remembered not only for his adventurous spirit and love of the outdoors, but also for his quiet kindness, intelligence, generosity, and unwavering love for his family. He is lovingly remembered by his partner, Zara; his daughter, Odessa; his mother, Gillian; his father, Colin; his brother, Anthony; his sister, Louise, and her husband, Nick; and his nieces, Isabelle and Olivia, who were born after he passed. His memory lives on in the stories shared, the lives he touched, and the daughter who carries a part of him every day.
On July 24, 2016, James lost his life while competing in the William XC paragliding event in Golden, BC. While he is remembered for the incredible person he was—not for the way he died—we hope his story also encourages others to pause and reflect.
Forever loved. Forever remembered. Never forgotten.
Cheers to Weaver’s Bee Co. for the wonderful fresh fruit and vegetables. I love shopping at your fruit stand.
Cheers to servers Christine and Mark at the Invermere Legion. The service is always top notch no matter how busy and hectic it is. Keep up the great work!
Huge Cheers to JCL for jumping on it when our heat pump conked out. You solved the problem without a moment’s hesitation. Our heat pump is rolling again! Phew! The technology is not magic and sometimes it fails - but JCL IS magic, and they have never failed us!
SWIM LESSONS at Fairmont Hot Springs with Rocky Mountain Swim Lessons. Book online at www. rockymountainswimlessons.ca
Lorraine Ann (Chatson) Ross
HELP WANTED Help Wanted Front Desk Administrator
We are looking for a friendly, reliable, and organized Front Desk Administrator to join our team, part-time or full-time for the right person..
Responsibilities:
• Greet and assist clients in a professional manner
• Answer phones and respond to inquiries
Schedule appointments
• Process payments and maintain accurate records
• Perform general administrative and office duties
Qualifications:
• Excellent customer service and communication skills
• Strong organizational and multitasking abilities
Basic computer skills (Microsoft Office and email)
• Previous front desk or administrative experience is an asset
• Attention to detail is a must
Position Details:
• Part-time or full-time
• In-office position
If you enjoy working with people and have strong administrative skills, we’d love to hear from you!
Please send your resume to advertising@columbiavalleypioneer.com or apply in person at The Columbia Valley Pioneer, Invermere, BC, or call 250-341-1111.
NOTICETOCREDITORS,HEIRS,ANDOTHERCLAIMANTS
IntheMatterofthe IndianAct,R.S.C.1985c.I 5asamended,andinthematteroftheEstateof No.
intheProvinceofBritishColumbia,DECEASED
Noticeisherebygivenpursuanttosection8oftheIndianEstatesRegulationsthatallcreditors,heirsandother claimantshavingclaimsordemandsagainsttheEstateofthesaid
whodiedonorabout
June 24, 2026
,arerequiredtosendbypostprepaidorto deliveronorbefore to:
August 31, 2026
3251 93/95 Hwy Windermere BC V0B 2L2
theirnamesandaddresses,fullparticularsoftheirclaims,statementoftheiraccounts,andthenatureofthe securities(ifany)heldbythem.
AndtakenoticethataftersuchlastmentioneddatetheAdministratorwillproceedtodistributetheassetsof thedeceasedamongthepartiesentitledthereto,havingregardonlytoclaimsfiledbeforethatdateorwhich theMinisterordersmaybelaterreceived,andthatthesaidAdministratorwillnotbeliableforthesaidassets oranypartthereoftoanypersonorpersonsofwhoseclaimsnoticewasnotfiledbythatdateunlessthe Ministerordersitmaybelaterreceived.
Datedat , ,on
Administrator/Executor 172(01),
Beatrice Martha Stevens
Beatrice Martha Stevens ?Akisq'nuk First Nation
Windermere
Gayle Michel
'Forgotten Windermere' brings glorious past back to life again
By Steve Hubrecht steve@columbiavalleypioneer.com
A new historical photography book is set to bring the Columbia Valley’s past back to life in vivid fashion.
Publisher Keith Powell will release ‘Forgotten Windermere’ later this month. It’s the latest book in a series that, so far, includes ‘Forgotten Cranbrook’, ‘Forgotten Kimberley’, ‘Forgotten Creston’ and ‘Forgotten Moyie’.
‘Forgotten Windermere’ will have 120 pages of historical photos from the Columbia Valley, from Spillimacheen in the north to Canal Flats in the south.
“The idea is to give a snapshot of the region, a historical look at the area through the images,” Powell told the Pioneer
Powell has spent more than a year working on ‘Forgotten Windermere’, and when he spoke with the Pioneer in late June, he was waiting for copies to arrive from the printers.
To create the book, Powell collaborated extensively with the Windermere District Historical Society (which runs the Windermere Valley Museum), although he did get some photos from a few other sources.
Powell worked in the publishing business for three decades, and is releasing ‘Forgotten Windermere’ through his own Wild Horse Creek Press publishing company. He points to the popular region-wide ‘Lost Kootenay’ Facebook group and the resulting ‘Lost Kootenay’ photo book as inspiration. The success of ‘Lost Kootenay’ prompted Powell to try something similar, but focused solely on Cranbrook. When that was a success he turned his eye to other nearby East Kootenay communities. Those too were hits, and Powell soon had Columbia Valley residents asking him when he’d do a book on this region.
“There seems to be a great appetite for these,” he said.
Powell is an avid history buff, and greatly enjoyed rifling through the local museum’s exten-
sive photo archives.
“Some of the images are truly outstanding,” he said.
Powell is particularly fond of some of the early photos of Sinclair Canyon, long before the BanffWindermere road was built through it in the early 1920s. There are some of the David Thompson Memorial Fort, and one of Baillie Grohman and crew working to build the ultimately futile canal that was to connect the Kootenay and Columbia River systems (and which gives Canal Flats its name). And there’s even some documenting the early golf courses in the valley, which believe it or not go all the way back to a nine-hole course near Pynelogs in the 1920s or 1930s.
Another photo Powell admires is from the time that the then-owners of Fairmont Hot Springs wanted to name their hot pools ‘Radium’ – even though that name was already firmly associated with those other famous Columbia Valley hot pools, now in Kootenay National Park.
“So, for a brief little while you had two Radiums — one in the north and another in the south,” said Powell, adding that’s just one of many oddities he came across in the annals of the valley’s past.
“It really is fascinating once you start delving into history,” he said. “History is important. It’s a glimpse into the past ... I’ve always loved the history of the Kootenay. It’s dynamic and there are so many great characters.”
Powell starts the book with an outline of the local ?akisq'nuk First Nation (which is part of the larger Ktunaxa Nation Council) and the Shuswap Band, noting their histories in the Columbia Valley are far deeper and stretch back far longer in time than the history captured in old photographs. He also extended a big thank you to local resident and professional historian Alex Weller, who runs the ‘In the Windermere’ blog, and who helped Powell improve his book.
‘Forgotten Windermere’ will be available at Four Points Books, in local pharmacies, and several other locations in Invermere. Powell said he is excited to see the book come out.
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)
No Sunday services in July and August except for Sunday July 26
1pm service at All Saints in Edgewater 7pm service at Stolen Church in Windermere 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)
The book 'Forgotten Windermere' takes you on a nostalgic trip into the past.
PHOTO SUBMITTED