Columbia Valley Pioneer - March 28, 2024

Park waterbodies closed for another year VALLEY NEWS

By Steve Hubrecht  steve@columbiavalleypioneer.com

Keep that fishing rod and standup paddle board tucked away: waterbodies in Kootenay National Park will remain closed for at least another year.

In fall 2023, Parks Canada closed lakes, rivers, ponds, wetlands, streams and creeks in the national park (which begins immediately to the east of the Village of Radium Hot Springs) until March 2024. It made this decision after it found the parasite that causes whirling disease in Yoho National Park. Waterbodies in Yoho were also closed. (Yoho borders Kootenay National Park.) Whirling disease has extremely high mortality rates (up to 90 per cent) in certain kinds of fish, including iconic Columbia Valley species such as Kokanee salmon, westslope cutthroat trout and mountain whitefish.

At the time, Parks Canada Lake Louise, Yoho and Kootenay field unit aquatic ecologist Shelley Humphries explained to the Pioneer that the closures were a precaution, taken to prevent the spread of the parasite while Parks Canada figures out its next steps.

Last week Parks Canada extended the waterbody closures in Kootenay and Yoho for a full year until March 2025. The federal agency outlined in a statement that it spent the winter months analyzing its options and that the continued closures will help protect fish and allow Parks Canada to conduct further sampling and monitoring.

There is no treatment for whirling disease, and once the disease is estab-

lished, it is extremely difficult to eradicate.

Kokanee salmon, westslope cutthroat trout and mountain whitefish are important ecologically (both Kokanee and westslope cutthroat trout are considered keystone species in certain ecosystems). All three species are very popular with anglers (and tourists who visit the valley to fish), and all three species (especially the Kokanee) hold significance for local First Nations.

The cases of whirling disease in Yoho last year were the first cases anywhere in B.C. But the disease had been present in nearby parts of Alberta for several years. The disease probably spread across the continental divide by hitching a ride on recreational equipment such as fishing gear, stand-up paddle boards, kayaks, or boats.

“That’s the most likely method of transfer — people and recreational activities, especially if people don’t handle their equipment properly or clean it well,” Humphries told the Pioneer last fall.

To make sure fishing equipment and stand-up paddle boards are truly whirling disease free, all water, mud and plant matter must be thoroughly removed and the equipment then left to dry for a minimum of 48 hours before it is used in a different water body.

This process is inconvenient, especially for those who want to visit a certain lake one day and a different lake the next. But it’s necessary. Humphries, an avid angler herself, has two pairs of waders: if she visits two different fishing spots in one weekend, she uses a different pair of waders at each.

Clarifications

In the March 7 issue, the Pioneer reported the Valley Fitness Centre (VFC) has received registered charity status. The VFC is working on its application for registered charity status, but has not yet completed that process.

In the March 14 issue, the Pioneer reported that a farewell party was to be

held for outgoing Family Dynamix Association executive director Pat Cope at the Legion on 13th Street in Invermere on Thursday, March 21 from 1 to 4 p.m. This is incorrect - the farewell party will be held at the Legion on Thursday, March 28 from 1 to 4 p.m

The farewell party for Pat Cope from Family Dynamix will be held at the Invermere Legion on Thursday, March 28 from 1 to 4 p.m.

Continued concern about whirling disease in fish has resulted in expanded closures of waterbodies in KNP.

RCMP REPORT

By Sgt. Ed deJong Columbia Valley RCMP

This past week, March 18 to 25, the Columbia Valley RCMP responded to 42 calls for service. The following is a summary of some of the files our officers responded to:

On March 18 police were dispatched to an abandoned 911 call from the Wilmer area. It was determined the person accidently dialed 911, but instead of staying on the line and explaining to dispatch that it

was a misdial, the person hung up. When this occurs, police are dispatched to ensure there is no one in danger and in need of assistance. If you accidentally dial 911, please stay on the line and explain the mistake to the dispatcher. This will usually prevent the need for police to attend and potentially be tied up when an actual emergency is called in.

The Columbia Valley detachment staff would like to wish everyone a safe and fun Easter long weekend. If you are travelling, be mindful to the potential of quick changes in weather and drive safe.

PHOTO

Invermere adopts bylaw on respectful behaviour

By Steve Hubrecht  steve@columbiavalleypioneer.com

Those who would deface municipal property be warned: the District of Invermere has taken action to curb purposeful vandalism of its rainbow crosswalks, as well as other hateful, discriminatory actions by adopting a respectful behaviour bylaw.

It was previously discussed by council last fall, and the idea for the bylaw stems from several incidences last spring, include one in which a person stood outside the Summit Youth Hub (centre) with a sign reading: “Hey Kids, Trannies = terrorists/satanists,” as well as several acts of vandalism to the rainbow crosswalks in the district.

District staff discussed these incidences with Columbia Valley Pride, the local nonprofit group that strives to enhance the lives of 2SLGBTQiA community members in the valley, and the Summit Youth Hub, as well as the Columbia Valley RCMP. During these discussions the idea of a bylaw discouraging these acts came up.

No bylaw meant the district could not take action on its own to address such behaviour in its municipal facilities and properties, noted Invermere chief administrative officer Andrew Young in a report to council. Instead, it had to rely on the RCMP.

“It was recognized that it would be beneficial for the district to have a bylaw to help fulfill the district's

obligation to provide a workplace that is free of violence, bullying, and harassment while also considering the district's obligations under the B.C. Human Rights Code and the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms,” Young told council.

“It is disheartening to have to legislate kindness. But if we don’t do this — if we don’t have anything in place — then when we have an incident like the one in May, there’s nothing we can do. That’s not good,” said Invermere deputy mayor Kayja Becker.

Invermere councillor Gerry Taft added he hopes that people behave respectfully and that because of that the new bylaw never needs to be used. “But, if it does, at least that tool (the bylaw) is now in the tool box for authorities to use,” said Taft.

The regulation defines vandalism as the “malicious, wilful, or deliberate destruction, damaging or defacing of district facilities or other district-owned property, including equipment, vehicles, materials, and furniture.” This definition includes the rainbow crosswalks.

The bylaw’s definition of violence includes the use of profane, obscene, abusive, or discriminatory language; threats or attempts to intimidate; throwing articles or objects in a deliberate or aggressive manner that may endanger or cause injury or damage to any persons or property; physically aggressive or threatening behaviour; and attempts to goad or incite violence.

Canal Flats receives warning

By Steve Hubrecht  steve@columbiavalleypioneer.com

The Village of Canal Flats recently received a warning letter from the provincial Ministry of Environment and Climate Change about its wastewater treatment facility. The village, however, is already aware of the issues, has secured a grant to help pay to fix them, and plans to do much of, if not all, the work this year.

The letter was sent after a ministry inspection of the village’s wastewater treatment facility earlier this winter. It highlighted failures in monitoring effluent discharge rates and sludge discharges; insufficient fencing to prevent unauthorized access; and maintenance issues with the facility's infrastructure. It is the second such letter from the ministry about the facility in two years.

“There have been some issues with the sewage lagoon,” Canal Flats chief administrative officer Richard Wayken told the Pioneer, adding the first warning letter from the ministry was received in 2022 during his second day on the job.

The village has been trying to fix the situation ever since, and plans to have the problem solved later this

year, in late summer or early fall.

Better fencing will go up, the sewage lagoon liners will be replaced, and the dike will be extended.

The total cost of the upgrades is $1.748 million, and the village recently got an Investing in Canada Infrastructure Program (ICIP) grant, which will cover $1.248 million of that. The village will kick in the remaining $500,000.

“The design is starting now,” said Wayken, adding “we need to extend the dike to protect the sewage lagoon because it’s right on the watershed.”

He noted that long-term planning has not necessarily been a strong suit for the Village of Canal Flats and that many other B.C. municipalities are in the same boat.

“This (the sewage lagoon letter) really does point to the bigger issue of long-term planning, especially when it comes to capital infrastructure,” he said. “The sewage lagoon dates back to the 1960s. The village has known for a long time that it needs fixing.”

The two main methods municipalities use to pay for large capital infrastructure projects — raising taxes and pursuing grants — simply don’t cut it, in Wayken’s view.

Conintued on page 8

A critical time

Many people would agree with Allen Segstro from Radium who astutely said that Canada has a legal system that should not be misconstrued as a justice system. Others like to call it the “injustice” system for how it has been twisted around so obscenely in favour of the rights of the accused over the victim’s.

Many long for the return of a system that puts the victim first, instead of focusing all of the court’s time on whether the perpetrator’s rights have been accommodated or violated. The victim? Oh yes, they’re over there huddled in the corner waiting for justice to be served in between plea bargains, bail hearings, and pre-sentence reports.

Reading the history of crime and punishment is a real eye-opener. In the Middles Ages, consequences for crimes were linked to religion since it was often considered “God’s work” to punish the evil that men (and women) do. This punishment was decided by ridiculous “ordeals” and “trials” where suspects had to partake in brutal physical challenges to reveal their guilt or innocence.

In those days fair trials didn’t exist; if you were suspected of committing a crime, you were guilty and punishment was swift. Fortunately, we are not under that archaic (and scary) system anymore, but the legal pendulum has swung to the extreme left and now we are faced with a system with very little accountability and deterrence. Bail and probation for serious offences are the norm today, and like conservation efforts, it’s a “catch-and-release” society.

A couple of disturbing incidents recently cast a shadow over our legal system. A repeat sexual offender of children was taking riding lessons at an equestrian facility in BC where he allegedly victimized an 11-year-old girl. How was that allowed to happen?

In another case, a sexual predator was released into a community without the general public knowing about it; only a small number of people were informed. Where’s the justice in that?

Enhanced credit for time served, house arrest, breach of probation, granted bail, plea to a lesser charge, “my client’s privacy rights were infringed, your honour” . . . the list goes on and on.

Many argue that jail is not the answer, that we must try to rehabilitate. While this belief is certainly valid, we must bring back what the legal system has lost in its blind pursuit of justice, and that’s deterrence and respect for the law.

Some people turn to crime because making an honest living is just too much work for them; it barely pays the bills. Society is partly to blame for that. Look how difficult it is to survive these days, thanks to rising costs, taxes, rent, and everything else. We’re seeing more poverty, homelessness, and social ills exacerbated by mental health problems, and while services are available to help, they can’t keep up.

All good things come to end

For over 25 years the Friends of Kootenay National Park Association has been working together for the protection, appreciation, education and understanding of Kootenay National Park’s cultural and natural history, as well as the neighbouring ecosystem of the Columbia River valley. But, after all these years, all good things must come to an end.

At the end of this month, the Friends of Kootenay National Park will end operations due to the retirement of the board of directors.

For years youth visiting Redstreak and Radium Hot Springs were able to get excited about the cultural and natural history of Kootenay National Park by going on hikes and playing interactive games with our program leaders.

The Nature’s Gifts & Bookstore closed at the end of November, but Parks Canada will be setting up a gift boutique within the Kootenay National Park Visitor Centre selling related merchandise.

Just because the Friends of Kootenay National Park is ending operations doesn't mean the end of everyone caring, exploring, and supporting Kootenay National Park. At the end of the day, everyone can still be a friend to one of the best national parks in Canada.

Something needs to change because this is a critical time for everyone. Write your MP, the Department of Justice, and the Ministry of Social Development and Poverty Reduction.

Over the years, the Friends have sponsored and supported various events such as the Wild Voices Speaker Series, Wings Over the Rockies, the annual Knapweed Pull, the Head Banger Trail Challenge fundraiser, Headbanger tours, heritage teas, Art with Friends, and working with Parks Canada to create new interpretive signs along the Sinclair Canyon trail for the 100th anniversary of Kootenay National Park.

Lyonel Doherty, editor

Our longest running achievement was the Junior Naturalists program at the Redstreak Campground.

Thank you everyone for all your support over the decades. Also, thank you to Tourism Radium Hot Springs and Parks Canada for their assistance and support over the years.

FKNPA board of directors

Alex, Dale, Lindsay, and Vivian

ICAN needs more members, volunteers

Invermere Companion Animal Network Society (ICAN) held its annual general meeting Sunday, March 17.

Reports from the board summed up a good year, with advances made in public appearances and fundraising activities such as a booth at Valley Appreciation Day and barbecues.

Re-elected to office were: Don Whiteford, president; Jen Harvey, vice-president; Anne Futa, secretary; and Shizu Futa, treasurer.

Also elected were two board members-at-large,

Jill MacEachern and Laura Lovett.

With plans to increase the number of barbecues to five this year, re-implementing their Golf Fore Paws at Coy Par 3, and inaugurating what it hopes will be an annual Black-and-White Catsino, ICAN is seeking reliable volunteers who can help with these events as well as cleaning.

ICAN is also looking forward to finding new ways to increase its profile and expand its service to the community.

If you are interested in becoming a member or

volunteer, you can send an email to info@icanbc.com, visit the website at https://icanbc.com/, or phone 250341-7888.

Administrative office hours are currently 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Tuesdays to Saturdays.

The golf tournament is tentatively planned for mid-August, and the Catsino for the third weekend in November. Please keep an eye out for announcements and come out to support a worthy cause.

Invermere Companion Animal Network

VALLEY NEWS

RDEK encourages more ENS sign-ups

Columbia Valley Pioneer staff

The Regional District of East Kootenay (RDEK) encourages more people to sign up for its Evacuation Notification System and is willing to help them do just that.

A registration drive has been launched to increase the number of individuals with access to the system powered by Voyent Alert. This program notifies residents and property owners in case of evacuation orders or alerts during critical events such as wildfires and floods.

“This system is critically important in emergencies,” stresses RDEK communications manager Loree Duczek. “It provides immediate notification when every second counts, and our goal is to have as many residents and visitors as possible registered.

To make this as easy as possible and to provide in-person support, the RDEK is holding a series of registration events in April and May.

The tour will include stops in Canal Flats, Fairmont Hot Springs, Invermere, Radium Hot Springs, and the communities of Shuswap and ?aq’am. All res-

idents are welcome to stop by during these scheduled visits to receive assistance signing up for the program. The schedule can be found at www.rdek. bc.ca.

Residents may also call the RDEK to ask for help signing up to the system — 1-888-478-7335. They can also sign up online by visiting the emergency information page on the RDEK website.

“We’ve seen our registrations almost double since the beginning of 2023, but still have a long way to go,” says Duczek. “If you have not yet regis-

tered, now is a great time to add this free tool as a part of your personal emergency readiness plan.”

For those who have previously registered, this is a good time to login and check that you have accurately marked your property location. During the wildfires of 2023, the RDEK found numerous users had inaccurately marked their property location. Those unsure of how to check can stop in during the registration events or contact the RDEK.

NOTICE TO REMOVE PRIVATE LAND FROM WOODLOT 0481

Please be advised that William Prytula is proposing to remove 50 hectares of private land from Woodlot Licence W0481 located in the vicinity of Harrogate, BC, Parcel Identifier 007-180-781 described as

THAT PART OF THE NORTHWEST QUARTER OF SECTION 28 LYING NORTH AND EAST OF THE RIGHT

Only written inquiries received by the above date will be responded to.

Information about this proposal can be obtained by contacting William (Bill) Prytula, 250-344-8183, wprytula@gmail.com.

The RDEK is offering to help individuals sign up for the Evacuation Notification System through Voyent Alert. Shown here is a firefighter pulling a hose during a fire. PHOTO LYONEL DOHERTY

Join National Lake Blitz in your region

and environmental concerns between May and September.

Residents up for a little science project are invited to join the 4th annual National Lake Blitz in their area.

Living Lakes Canada is looking for local volunteers to do some water monitoring on Lake Windermere, Columbia Lake, and Lillian Lake in order to protect the lakes’ ecosystem health in the face of climate impacts.

Anyone interested in deepening their connection to their favourite lake can register as a Lake Blitz volunteer. They will join hundreds of people across Canada in measuring air and water temperature, and documenting shoreline habitat, wildlife, invasive species

Living Lakes communications coordinator Emily Jerome told the Pioneer they had volunteers monitor the three above lakes last year. “We hope these volunteers return and register for this year's lake blitz to help continue monitoring these lakes.”

Teresa Wright, a volunteer who monitors Kootenay Lake, said she got involved after thinking about climate change and how she felt compelled to take some action.

“Being a lake blitz volunteer made me feel happy to be part of a community that was also taking care of our lakes,” she noted.

Each volunteer receives a free kit containing a thermometer, tape measure, field guide, and data sheets. Living Lakes will provide free online training on how to monitor a lake, from data collection to data entry.

A level 2 kit is available for purchase, allowing enthusiastic volunteers to measure additional parameters including pH and water clarity.

Volunteers will also be invited to join the Lake Blitz Speaker Series featuring experts from various water-focused fields including Ross Reid, a popular online science educator.

Last year 223 active volunteers monitored 209 lakes, collecting 1,613 data points.

Registration closes April 26 or when the supply of standard kits runs out. Join Living Lakes in getting outside this summer and help protect the lake you love.

To learn more and to register, visit LakeBlitz.LivingLakesCanada.ca or contact the Lake Blitz team at LakeBlitz@LivingLakesCanada.ca.

Canal Flats wastewater facility on notice

Continued from page 5

“We’re already taxed to death as it is. And grants are not always reliable . . . when you rely on grants, you don’t know when or if they will come through,” said Wayken.

As a case in point, he noted that this is the village’s third time applying for an ICIP grant

to fix the wastewater treatment facility.

In the meantime, while waiting and hoping to score grant funding, the infrastructure continues to sit.

“The liners (of the sewage lagoon) are really due for replacement. They are past life expectancy,” said Wayken. “It

got to the point that we’re now getting letters. And that elevates the conversation.”

He noted that it’s tough for municipalities to plan for the long term, as there are often many competing priorities, but it still needs to be done.

“We need to look to alternative solutions for funding.

We have to get creative. We have to do better as a municipality, and we can do better,” said Wayken.   What options, other than grants and increasing taxes, does a small municipality such as Canal Flats have to pay for large infrastructure projects?  Wayken noted the possi-

bility of private-public partnerships, as well as using municipal land for things such as golf courses, hotels, restaurants or other revenue-generating services. He also suggested it would be a good idea for the village to look at what other municipalities do to help pay or plan for big capital projects.

Columbia Valley Pioneer staff

Students call for more public transit

Columbia Valley Pioneer staff

A group of students at David Thompson Secondary School is putting words into action by calling for more public transit to reduce carbon emissions in the valley.

Members of the DTSS Climate Club (students in Grade 9 through 12), are tired of ‘struggling’ with transportation and always asking their parents for a ride.

“We often find ourselves needing to be somewhere in the valley and having no way to get there,” said Grade 11 student Ursula MacIntosh.

This is why the the Club and Wildsight Invermere are partnering on an initiative to improve public transit for Columbia Valley residents

MacIntosh said many locals, especially those who reside outside of Invermere, have trouble getting where they need to be and often end up having to pass up opportunities or drive more frequently.

“These issues especially affect youth because they otherwise must rely on parents for rides. Our goal is to help everyone in the valley by having a convenient and easy public transit system, and also to reduce unnecessary carbon emissions,” MacIntosh said.

Imagine if you could just hop on a bus and get to a meeting, gathering or an appointment. This could lead to activities that people might not have considered.

“Students especially could use transit to get to sports practices, lessons, band rehearsals or work, as well

as meeting up with friends,” MacIntosh said. Many seniors would benefit from this too, she pointed out.

Grade 11 student Jules Turtle said the majority of their club members are not residents of lnvermere, and the lack of public transit “certainly adds a challenge” when it comes to planning events and activities.

“I’ve spent three hours after class waiting at the school for basketball to start because there was no way to get home and back before practice.”

One Grade 9 student had this to say about the issue: “Once, me and my siblings were stuck in Invermere because we couldn’t get back to Edgewater.”

Another Grade 11 pupil said there are students who aren't able to play school sports because they live outside of town and aren’t able to get a ride home. “By having public transit, this enables more students to participate in after-school activities.”

MacIntosh said because she lives in Edgewater, her options for getting a weekend job are very limited to when her parents can drive her “because the bus doesn’t run on weekends.”

A fellow student said many people often end up driving back and forth to Invermere several times a day which is expensive, wasteful, and bad for the environment.

Teacher Michelle Rievaj said she knows several students who cannot attend after-school programs like music or sports because they can’t secure regular transportation. “Lack of transit options for students disproportionately affects families with fewer resources.”

But the Climate Club is forging ahead by conducting a short survey to gather public input and ideas as well as data about transit usage. People can fill out the survey by using the link on the Club’s Facebook or Instagram @dtss_ climate_club or @wildsightinvermere.

After the survey, students will be making a video to present to regional government about the issues that locals face with transportation. If anyone would like to participate in making the video, email cvtransportproject@gmail. com.

Members of the DTSS Climate Club are tired of struggling with transportation and asking their parents for a ride.

OUT OF OFFICE…

Explore Columbia Valley App: Discover, Explore, and Get Rewarded

Discovering the stunning sights, exciting activities, and local shops of the Columbia Valley communities just got more rewarding with the launch of the Explore Columbia Valley app. This innovative application offers an engaging way for visitors and residents alike to immerse themselves in the beauty and culture of Radium Hot Springs, Invermere, Panorama, Fairmont Hot Springs, and Canal Flats while earning awesome prizes along the way.

Users of the Explore Columbia Valley app can embark on their own adventure by selecting from a variety of itineraries showcasing a range of sightseeing, activities, pubs, restaurants, cafes, trails, local businesses, points of interest, and more. Simply explore the Columbia Valley and complete the designated stops within the itineraries to collect rewards.

“We’re thrilled to introduce the Explore Columbia Valley app, providing both locals and visitors with an exciting platform to discover all that our region has to offer,” said Jessica Fairhart, Travel Columbia Valley. “Whether you’re seeking outdoor adventures, delicious dining experiences, or unique shopping opportunities, our app makes it easy to explore and get rewarded for your discoveries.”

To get started, users can download the app from the App Store or Google Play Store. Once logged in, they can create an account to start earning points that can be redeemed for rewards at various locations throughout the Columbia Valley. The app’s map feature displays points of interest, and users can collect points by physically visiting designated locations within GPS range.

“As you collect points, you’ll have the opportunity to redeem them for amazing prizes at our Rewards locations,” added Fairhart, “From thrilling outdoor excursions to exclusive discounts at local businesses, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.”

Experience the beauty and adventure of the Columbia Valley like never before with the Explore Columbia Valley app. Download today and start exploring, discovering, and getting rewarded!

For more information and to download the app, visit www.travelcolumbiavalley.ca

For information on how your business can participate, email Theresa Wood:  advisor@cvchamber.ca

Thursday, March 28

• 3:30pm-5:00pm: Easter Egg Decorating. Invermere Library. All ages welcome. Drop-in and decorate your eggs and then let others come decorate (while supplies last). Children 12 & under must be accompanied by an adult. Limit of 2 eggs per participant (You’re welcome to bring more of your own eggs). Please wear clothes you can get messy!

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

• 11:30am-12:00pm: Little Lambs – Baby Program. Radium Public Library. Join us for songs, rhymes, and stories with your babies! No registration required.

• 2:00pm-3:00pm: Seniors Tea. Invermere Public Library. Join us for a cup of tea and a chat on the 2nd & 4th Thursday of each month. All welcome!

• 6:30pm-7:30pm: Newcomer & Community Connection Café Invermere Library. Meet new people, learn about other cultures, create a craft and share life experiences.  Free program.  All are welcome.

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

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

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

Friday, March 29

• 4:00pm-8:00pm: Invermere Food & Artisans Market. Columbia Valley Centre. The Invermere Food & Artisans Market is back for another weekend of showcasing over 60 artisans, creators and makers from the Columbia Valley and surrounding areas in BC and Alberta.  Enjoy food vendors and live music. Free entry!

• 12:00pm: Soup for Lunch. Edgewater Community Hall. Soup or chili with bun, dessert, coffee or tea $10.00 Take out available; bring your thermos or jar and container for dessert.

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

Saturday, March 30

• 9:00am: Easter Egg-Stravaganza. Radium Public Library. This free family-friendly event is held at the Radium Centre. The event includes an outdoor egg hunt, goodie bags, crafts, and face painting. Our special guest, the Easter Bunny, will make an appearance and is available for photos!

• 10:00am-4:00pm: Invermere Food & Artisans Market. Columbia Valley Centre. The Invermere Food & Artisans Market is back for another weekend of showcasing over 60 artisans, creators and makers from the Columbia Valley and surrounding areas in BC and Alberta.  Enjoy food vendors and live music. Free entry!

• 11:00am-12:00pm: Community Easter Egg Hunt. Mt Nelson Athletic Park. Join District of Invermere and the Summit Youth Centre for our annual Community Easter Egg Hunt. This fun Easter Egg Hunt begins at 11am sharp at Mount Nelson Athletic Park!

• 10:00pm: UK Sounds Carpe Noctum. Ullr Bar.  it's time for round two of our boiler room style DJ set UK SOUNDS CARPE NOCTEM. Ullr will be welcoming back 6 DJ's from all around the valley to play all UK underground style electronic music. $10 tickets in advance on eventbrite https://www.eventbrite.com/e/uk-sounds-carpe-noctemtickets-850139769937. $15.00 at the door.

• 10:30am-11:00am: Family Storytime. Invermere Public Library. Join us weekly on Saturdays for Family Storytime at the library! With stories, songs & a craft. Geared towards preschool age (2-5) but all welcome.

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

• 2:00pm-4:00pm: Buddy Reading. Invermere Public Library. Contact us to book a 30 minute session to read with a librarian. Practice reading aloud one-on-one to build skill, confidence & a love of reading! Open to all ages and reading abilities.

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

Sunday, March 31

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

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

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

Monday, April 1

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

• 6:30pm: Poker (Chip up for Charity). The Station Pub $20 buy-in. Every Monday.

Tuesday, April 2

• 3:00pm-5:00pm: Seniors Game Days. Invermere Seniors Hall. Come out to the Invermere Seniors' Hall for an afternoon of playing board games and connecting!  Snacks and beverages will be provided.  This is a free event and pre-registration is encouraged: wvcoordinator@cbal.org or call/text 250-409-4251.

• 7:00pm-9:00pm: Invermere Film Festival Presents: Bob Marley One Love. Columbia Valley Centre. This month’s featured film – buy tickets at invermerefilm.org

• 10:30am-11:30am: Homeschool Meetup. Drop-in, all-ages programming with open-ended STEAM play, group activities and art projects. A chance for homeschool kids and families to get together!

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

• 1:00pm-3:30pm: Art in the Afternoon. Radium Public Library. A free program for local artists and art enthusiasts! Whether you sketch, paint, carve, knit or crochet, bring your supplies and work alongside fellow artists.

• 6:30pm-8:00pm: Second Winds Community Band. Practice at Invermere Catholic Church Annex. For info please email dalvande@ shaw.ca

• 7:00pm: Ullr Presents: Musical Bingo with Tim Richards. Ullr Bar. Every Tuesday - $5 per card.

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

• Wednesday, April 3

• 10:15am-11:15am: Baby Talk. Invermere Library Mezzanine. A FREE drop-in program for caregivers of infants 0-12. Bring your baby for fun, informative sessions and meet with other new parents. Please bring a blanket to sit on.

Todays Topic: Starting Solids

• 7:00pm-8:45pm: Invermere Community Drum Circle. Pynelogs. Professionally facilitated, participants will learn about and experiment with different drums and drumming techniques from all around the world. You'll experience a fun and inclusive drumming workshop, but that's only the beginning! Please text if you intend to stop by to experience the magic! +1-250-409-4110. rhythmbynature.ca

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

• 11:30am-12:00pm: Story Time. Radium Public Library - preschool & all ages.

• 3:00pm-4:30pm: After School Club. Invermere Public Library. A window of transition time between school and home or extracurriculars. Come colour, bead, play with LEGO and catch up with friends! Open to all school-aged kids and teens. Drop-off allowed for Grade 2 students and up. Younger kids are welcome with a grown-up. Please bring your own snacks! Register. https://invermere.bc.libraries. coop/

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

BEY ND THE BLUE LINE

So long, Rockies, thanks for the ride

Homegrown

By Stephanie Stevens

Hey boys,

I am sitting and sorting through a season’s worth of photos to send you, your parents and your coaches and writing this bit, this column, this… well, not quite a goodbye, but definitely à la prochaine (see you next time).

It has taken me longer to start writing than I care to admit, ding-dang it.

Back in the day, when I did this for the first time as a sports reporter for The Echo in early 2000s, I would be in the darkroom developing 3200 T-Max film and making contact sheets, poring over each one with a loupe to see if anything turned out.

Back then, the guys would come into my office and squint at those tiny images to find the ones they wanted me to print out for them (they were nearly all black and white) and come back a day or two later to pick up the enlargements.

Now, a click and share and you have the entire game folder to choose from.

Oh my, how times have changed.

When Scott Dubielewicz asked me to wade back into this gig of covering the Rockies, I thought no problem, I can do this again. And this time, I will keep it simple. No getting to know the players,

no close-game tense moments with my stern face on the bench, no emotion, no heart. Keep it simple. Show up, get the shots, cover the game, go home.

I should have known better. It took a few games, but it was inevitable.

And it was all so familiar. The same whiff of the locker room (a fragrance one never truly forgets), the same whoosh of cold air as you came charging back to the bench or skating past full force, the same awful lighting in the northeast corner of the Eddie … and the same change from kids to young men when you put on your skates and hit the ice.

At first I had to remind myself who I was watching when I saw numbers.

Not Mix … 14 is Mulligan. Not Botterill … 8 is Fath, not Billinghurst … 16 is Sather.

Bull, Scheffer, Tanemura, Prince, Carder, Simoes … on and on. Same numbers, new lads, all with their own styles and personalities.

And then one game, I realized I was back in it for real.

One of you got hurt in a particularly nasty check, and dang if I didn’t want to follow trainer Hannah Ewing onto the ice. After all, those are my boys out there.

You may not have really known me, but I knew you.

Twenty years later I am still friends

Resource, Developm Thank You for Making our International Women’s Day Event Wonderful

Family Dynamix Women’s Centre extends a huge thank you to all who generously donated clothing/ jewelry/hangers and volunteered their time for our 1st Annual Free Women’s Clothing Boutique event on International Women’s Day (March 8).

A special thank you to Tara, Bird’s Eye Boutique, who provided the clothing racks and her advice on how to transform the Women’s Centre into a “high-end boutique” for the day.

Sixty women attended this fun event with free shopping for clothing and jewelry, door prizes, photo shoots, cupcakes by Diane, and a wonderful positive vibe of women supporting women.

Our staff continue to be in awe of the generosity and community spirit in our amazing community of Invermere/Columbia Valley.

Hope to see you at our 2nd Annual Free Women’s Clothing Boutique on March 8, 2025!

with some of those first Rockies. Talked to them quite a bit this season, reminiscing, asking for their thoughts, asking for advice when I realized I didn’t know the game as well as I used to.

I did get to know some of you off ice, and it was really nice to have that connection. And some I got to know on the bench.

Teo Fath apologizing to me for the cuss words I was hearing, grinning a rueful grin.

Jaiden Jakubowski had me snorting trying keep laughter in a few times with his trash talk to the other teams.

My favourite line still makes me snortle.

I don’t recall the team, don’t recall the number (let’s use 22), but he was laid out flat on his back right in front of our bench, and as clear as words carry on a crisp winter night, Jaku said “22, what are you even doing with your life?”

I had to walk away for a moment.

(And for the record, 22 smiled when he skated away.)

There were moments I felt frustration when I didn’t get shots of all of you on the ice (though I must have 234 Gromnisky draw shots). And in part I wanted those shots because your coach Tayler Sincennes was right: you don’t know what this season meant to you yet. But you will. And you will never forget it. Or them. Trust me. Twenty years later, it still brings me to gruff tears to think of those last games.

I saw you all. I saw how you skated, how you shot, I got to know what would frustrate you, what would elate you, and I saw what this game means to you.

I was there with you that final game, I felt it, the emotion, especially in the 20 year olds doing their last skate as a Rockie. I know what it meant. I felt it all again.

And I was so proud of you.

Thanks for letting me hang out with you this season, guys. You did good.

Love, Stevens.

PHOTO STEPHANIE STEVENS

The Rockies have not only grown as a team, but a close-knit family as well.

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

Pursuant to Section 494 of the Local Government Act, public notice is hereby given that the RDEK is considering the Short-Term Rental Temporary Use Permits (STR TUP) listed in the table below. Issuance of the permits will be considered by the delegated staff person at 10:00 am on April 5, 2024 at the RDEK office at 19

Cranbrook, BC.

All persons who believe they are affected by any of the Short-Term Rental Temporary Use Permits are encouraged to submit their concerns in writing to the RDEK office at 19 - 24 Ave S. Cranbrook, BC or by email to planningdept@rdek.bc.ca prior to 12:00 pm on April 2, 2024. All submissions should include your name and address. Please be advised that any written submissions will become part of public record. The permits are available for viewing by email request, on the RDEK website (www.rdek.bc.ca/meetings_events/publichearings) or at the RDEK Offices between the hours of 8:30 am and 4:30 pm, Monday to Friday, excluding statutory holidays. To search for properties online, visit: www.rdek.bc.ca/departments/mapping.

For more information contact planning department staff, at 250-489-2791 or by email at planningdept@rdek.bc.ca

All written submissions are public information pursuant to the Freedom of Information and Protection of Privacy Act. All submissions will form part of the public record. Questions about the disclosure of your personal information may be referred to the Corporate Officer at 250-489-2791 or 1-888-478-7335.

NOTICE – BYLAW AMENDMENT – Bylaw 3302 – Windermere

The Regional District of East Kootenay (RDEK) Board of Directors is considering an application from the owners in Phase 1 of Strata Plan NES21 to amend the zoning designation of the 1 ha (2.48 ac) portion of property (Phase 1) to accommodate 9 existing cabins constructed between 1989 and 1992, and to help facilitate changing one of the existing cabins from it’s current ownership designation in the strata as ‘limited common property’ (shared ownership) to an individual strata lot so it can be sold by the strata to an individual owner. The property is located at 1492 Akiskinook Road in Windermere as shown on the attached map.

Bylaw No. 3302 cited as “Regional District of East Kootenay – Columbia Valley Zoning Bylaw No. 3255, 2023 – Amendment Bylaw No. 8, 2024 (Windermere / Owners in Strata Plan NES21)” will amend the zone designation of Phase 1 of Strata Plan NES21, District Lot 20, Kootenay District, from R-3, Multiple Family Residential - Medium Density Zone to R-5, Multiple Family Residential - Community (Cluster) Zone.

A public hearing for the proposed bylaw will not be held pursuant to Section 467 of the Local Government Act which states that a local government must not hold a public hearing if:

a) An Official Community Plan is in effect for the area that is the subject of the proposed bylaw,

b) The bylaw is consistent with the official community plan,

c) The sole purpose of the bylaw is to permit a development that is, in whole or in part, a residential development, and

d) The residential component of the development accounts for at least half of the gross floor area of all the buildings and other structures proposed as part of the development Bylaw No. 3302 is consistent with the Columbia Valley Official Community Plan Bylaw No. 3255, 2023. The Official Community Plan designation for the subject property is R-MF, Residential Multi-Family which supports multi-family and cluster-style single-family development.

Bylaw 3302 will be considered for 1st, 2nd & 3rd readings by the RDEK Board of Directors on April 12, 2024. If the bylaw is introduced, it will forwarded to the Ministry of Transportation and Infrastructure for approval prior to being considered for adoption.

If you believe that your interest in property is affected by the proposed Bylaw, you may:

• inspect the Bylaw and supporting information by requesting that an information package be emailed to you by contacting tvandewiel@rdek.bc.ca. Information packages may be requested up until Friday, March 29, 2024 at 4:30 pm.

• mail or email written submissions to the addresses shown below before Friday, March 29, 2024 at 4:30 pm.

SUBMISSIONS CANNOT BE ACCEPTED AFTER THE DEADLINE.

All submissions will form part of the public record and will be published in a meeting agenda posted online. Personal contact information such as phone and email will be removed from written submissions. Questions about the disclosure of your personal information may be referred to the Corporate Officer at 250-489-2791 or 1-888-478-7335.

This notice is not an interpretation of the Bylaw. For more information, contact Tracy Van de Wiel, Planning Technician at 250-489-0311 or toll free at 1-888-478-7335 or email tvandewiel@rdek.bc.ca.

Invermere on the

Lake

DISTRICT OF INVERMERE

914 – 8th Avenue, PO Box 339

Invermere, BC V0A 1K0

Tel: (250) 342-9281

Fax: (250) 342-2934

PUBLIC HEARING NOTICE

Official Community Plan Amendment Bylaw No. 1658, 2024 and Zoning Bylaw Amendment Bylaw No. 1659, 2024

The Council of the District of Invermere gives notice that it will meet and hold a Public Hearing, on April 4, 2024, at 6:00 pm MT, at the Columbia Valley Centre located at 6464th Street, Invermere, BC to consider an application by the Metis Nation British Columbia to amend the land use designation and zoning of the following property:

Civic Address: 1102 – 13th Street (property highlighted on the inserted map below)

Legal Description: Lot 2, District Lot 1092, Kootenay District Plan NEP15924, PID: 009-047-239 (the Subject Property)

Application Intent: The intent of the application received by Council is to support amendments to the Official Community Plan (OCP) and Zoning Bylaws to allow for the development of a four-storey rental residential building with approximately 36 rental units and a separate 3,000-square-foot community gathering and office space building on the subject property. The Bylaw amendments necessary to support the application are as follows:

OCP Amendment Bylaw No. 1658, 2024 proposes a change the land use designation of the North portion of the Subject Property in Invermere’s OCP Bylaw No. 1495, 2015 Residential Map 3.2 (as amended) from PLANNED RESIDENTIAL to MULTI FAMILY RESIDENTIAL (HIGH DENSITY) and;

A change to the Land Use Plan – Parks, Pathways, and Institutional Map 3.3 of OCP Bylaw No. 1495, 2015 on the South portion of the Subject Property from PLANNED RESIDENTIAL to PUBLIC INSTITUTIONAL

Zoning Amendment Bylaw No. 1659, 2024 proposes a change in the zoning of the Subject Property from R-2 LOW DENSITY RESIDENTIAL to CDZ- 6 COMPREHENSIVE DEVELOPMENT ZONE 6: MNBC.

A copy of proposed OCP Bylaw Amendment Bylaw No. 1658, 2024 and Zoning Bylaw Amendment Bylaw No. 1659, 2024 and related documents may be inspected at the District of Invermere Municipal Office at 914 – 8th Avenue, Invermere, BC between the hours of 8:30 am to 4:30 pm from March 21, 2024, to April 4, 2024. The proposed bylaws may also be inspected online at the District of Invermere website: https://invermere.net/news/ Persons who wish to comment on the proposed bylaws and amendments, can submit them in one of the following ways:

• Mailed or hand delivered to the District of Invermere Office at 914 – 8th Avenue, PO Box 339, Invermere, BC V0A 1K0, provided they are received by the Corporate Officer not later than 12:00 pm MT, Wednesday April 3, 2024

Email to corporateservices@invermere.net received by 12:00 pm MT, Wednesday April 3, 2024

Facsimile to 250-342-2934 received by 12:00 pm MT, Wednesday April 3, 2024

By attending the Public Hearing on Thursday April 4th at 6:00 pm MT

Written comments received will be distributed to Council for their consideration at the public hearing. Those members of the public in attendance at the hearing will be allowed to make presentations to Council or present written submissions respecting matters contained in the proposed bylaws.

If you have questions or require more information, please contact the District of Invermere at (250) 342-9281 extension 1228 or by email to info@invermere.net

Rory Hromadnik

Director of Development Services

Official Community Plan Bylaw No. 1495, 2015, Amendment Bylaw No. 1653, 2024

And Zoning Bylaw No. 1145, 2002, Amendment Bylaw No. 1654, 2024

NOTICE is given that the following bylaws have received first and second readings by the District of Invermere Council:

• Official Community Plan Bylaw No. 1495, 2015, Amendment Bylaw No. 1653, 2024 and

Zoning Bylaw No. 1145, 2002, Amendment Bylaw No. 1654, 2024 and pursuant to Part 14, Division 3, Section 464 of the Local Government Act a Public Hearing for these bylaws is to be held in the Columbia Valley Centre located at 646 – 4th Street, Invermere, BC at 7:00 pm MT on Thursday, April 4, 2024. The hearing is scheduled to address: Official Community Plan Bylaw No. 1495, 2015, Amendment Bylaw No. 1653, 2024 which will if adopted:

Add provisions to the District’s Official Community Plan (OCP) to provide guidance and direction to the public and the District of Invermere (the District) when considering a Temporary Use Permit (TUP) application for a Short-Term Rental Accommodation Unit (STR). In the District of Invermere a STR TUP is intended for use where the District’s Official Community Plan (Bylaw No. 1495, 2015, as amended) or Zoning Bylaw No. 1145, 2002, as amended, do not otherwise allow an STR; for example, Invermere’s single-family residential and low-density residential areas. The District’s preference for managing STRs in these areas, where it is appropriate, is with TUPs.

Zoning Bylaw No. 1145, 2002, Amendment Bylaw No. 1654, 2024 which will if adopted: Add provisions to the District’s Zoning Bylaw to provide guidance and direction to the public and the District of Invermere (the District) when considering issuing a business licence for a Short-Term Rental Accommodation Unit (STR) where the use is permitted under the District’s Zoning Bylaw No. 1145, 2002, as amended.

In general terms the purpose of the Public Hearing is to provide an opportunity for public input respecting the two bylaws. Following the Public Hearing the Council of the District of Invermere may consider giving third reading to Official Community Plan Bylaw No. 1495, 2015, Amendment Bylaw No. 1653, 2024, and Zoning Bylaw No. 1145, 2002, Amendment Bylaw No. 1654, 2024.

Persons who wish to provide written comments on the proposed bylaws and amendments, can submit them in one of the following ways provided they are received by the Corporate Officer not later than 12:00 pm MT, Wednesday April 3, 2024:

By Mail or Hand delivery to the District of Invermere Municipal Office at 914 – 8th Avenue, PO Box 339, Invermere, BC V0A 1K0

Email sent to corporateservices@invermere.net

Facsimile sent to 250-342-2934

By attending the Public Hearing on Thursday, April 4th at 7:00 pm MT

Written comments received will be distributed to Council for their consideration at the Public Hearing.

Those members of the public in attendance at the Public Hearing will be allowed to make presentations to Council or present written submissions respecting matters contained in the proposed bylaws.

A copy of proposed Official Community Plan Bylaw No. 1495, 2015, Amendment Bylaw No. 1653, 2024, and Zoning Bylaw No. 1145, 2002, Amendment Bylaw No. 1654, 2024 and related documents may be inspected at the District of Invermere Municipal Office at 914 – 8th Avenue, Invermere, BC during regular business hours 8:30 am to 4:30 pm Monday through Friday from March 21, 2024, to April 4, 2024. The proposed bylaws may also be inspected online at the District of Invermere website: https://invermere.net/news/

If you have questions or require more information about Bylaw No. 1653, 2024, or Bylaw No. 1654, 2024 please contact the District of Invermere Municipal Office at (250) 342-9281, or by email to: info@invermere.net

Andrew

Young, MCIP, RPP

Rory Hromadnik, RPF Chief Administrative Officer Director of Development Services

Centre ups security

between youth.

The Windermere Valley Youth Centre is upgrading its security system thanks to a $3,500 grant-in-aid from Area F and Area G.

The upgrade will include a new camera in addition to additional outdoor cameras to secure the building.

The centre (commonly known as the Summit Youth Hub), explains that its current security system is outdated, leaving large blind spots, and does not allow staff to see with precision, which can be tricky when arguments break out

“The youth centre has to be a place where all youth feel safe and we rely on video cameras to guarantee no theft occurs or no accusations are pursued without proof,” management says.

It should be noted that the security upgrade adheres to the centre’s privacy policy that outlines the collection, use, and access to personal information.

The centre has been operating in the Columbia Valley for nearly 30 years, offering support and services to teens from Spillimacheen to Canal Flats.

Valley soccer

the

been

$5,500 to cover

accommodation, food and coaching expenses. Here, the Kinsmen Club of the Windermere Valley donates $500 for his trip. PHOTO SUBMITTED

Deputy Director of Finance

Permanent Full-Time Position

Invermere is a rapidly growing community of approximately 3,800 permanent residents nestled on the shores of Lake Windermere in the Columbia Valley. The District of Invermere is seeking an enthusiastic and experienced individual to become our Deputy Director of Finance. If you enjoy the outdoors and wish to live in a community that offers year-round activities and an incredible quality of life, Invermere is your ideal place to live, work and play.

Reporting to the Director of Finance, the Deputy Director of Finance is responsible for and supervising the completion of month-end and year-end accounting procedures including journal entries, reconciliations and adjustments; prepares year-end working papers, schedules, reports and statistics for financial statements, annual reports, and provincial reporting; assist the Director of Finance and the District’s management team with the financial administration of a variety of statutory programs and financial processes; and manages line staff functions within the Finance Department.

The preferred candidate for this position will possess the following or equivalent:

A University Degree

Enrolment in the CPA Professional Education Program

Chartered Professional Accountant (CPA) designation, or significant advancement in the CPA Professional Education Program with completion and designation anticipated. A minimum of three years of accounting work experience.

Municipal work experience will be considered an asset.

The selected candidate will be expected to possess:

• Knowledge of Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (GAAP), Public Sector Accounting Board (PSAB), and municipal/fund/public accounting.

Proficient with financial accounting software.

Intermediate level knowledge of Excel.

Ability to analyze financial information while maintaining a high degree of accuracy and attention to detail.

Ability to plan, prioritize, and communicate effectively.

Ability to deal tactfully with the public, in person and on the telephone, in a courteous manner.

Ability to communicate effectively with the public, elected officials, other staff including management both verbally and in writing, including reports.

Exceptional attention to details.

Strong interpersonal skills and desire to work in a team-oriented environment.

Excellent organizational, time management, and priority assessment skills including ability to perform effectively while under pressure.

• Proven capability to maintain confidentiality and to exercise a high degree of tact, diplomacy, and discretion.

Ability to defuse sensitive situations in a tactful and professional manner.

Sensitivity to the political and organizational environment.

Salary will be commensurate with experience and education. The pay range for this position will be between $46.70 and $54.94 per hour plus benefits. This is an exempt position, and the Deputy Director of Finance is expected to work 35 hours per week Monday to Friday from 8:30 am to 4:30 pm, some evening work may be required.

A job description for this position is available on the District of Invermere website. Persons interested in applying for this position are invited to submit their resumes by 2:00 pm, Monday, April 22, 2024 to:

District of Invermere

Attn: Kindry Luyendyk, Corporate Officer

Box 339, Invermere, BC, V0A 1K0

Email: corporateservices@invermere.net

We thank all applicants for their interest; however, only those considered for an interview will be contacted.

Off to Peru - Columbia Valley teen Caden McMurray is off to Peru in mid-April to play for the youth team that will represent Canada at the IFA7 Copa America Raising Starts soccer tournament. McMurray will be the first Columbia

player to participate in

tournament and has

trying to fundraise

flight,

Columbia Valley Pioneer staff

PIONEER CLASSIFIEDS

www.columbiavalleypioneer.com

HELP WANTED

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

Al-Anon. Are you concerned about or affected by someone else’s drinking? Meeting Mondays 7:15 pm, at Canadian Martyrs Parish front side door. 712 12 Ave. Invermere. For more information or to speak with someone from our fellowship, please call 250878-2448 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 End-624 4th St. Invermere. Please call 250-3422424 for more information or to speak with someone from our fellowship.

Get-ER-Done Handyman

Cheers to Heath at Selkirk Cellular for the great customer service!

Landscaping, Asphalt Pads, General Contracting, Cleaning Gutters, House Checks, Pressure Washing. Call Ryan 604-346-5087

Cheers to Steve and Audrey at The Local View. The quality of your work is on point and the service is always top notch . Best print shop in town!

Serving Invermere & Area cell 250-341-1202 gerry@gerrytaft.ca

Narcotics Anonymous. Open meeting.

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 End-624 4th St. Invermere. Please call 250-3422424 for more information or to speak with someone from our fellowship.

Mondays 7 pm at the BC Service Building, South End. 624-4th St. Invermere

Narcotics Anonymous. Open meeting.

Annual General Meeting of the

Mondays 7 pm at the BC Service Building, South End. 624-4th St. Invermere

Tuesday,

Annual General Meeting of the Edgewater Recreation Society

Tuesday, April 9, 2024 7:00PM at the Community Hall

Everyone Welcome (Voters must have registered for membership by March 10, 2024)

Cheers to Tracy L. at Chisel Peak Medical Clinic. You go above and beyond. You are awesome!

Cheers to Louise at No Frills. You are my favourite cashier. You are friendly, efficient and always make the effort to provide great customer service!

Cheers to Ray Feuz who scored spectacular Hat Trick Goals Monday March 11th for Team #1 of the Old Silver Tips Hockey Team during a close fought game against Team #2.

Cheers to Dave Matheson from Selkirk Appliance Repair. Same day service at a reasonable price. Punctualyou show up on time. Great service, honest, reliable and trustworthy. Highly recommend!

Cheers to the gals at Lamber Kipp Pharmacy for the friendly service.

Cheers to the delivery guys from The Brick for doing a great job delivering the fridges on Saturday.

Cheers to Kevin, the gentleman who rushed to my assistance when I had a nasty fall on the sidewalk in downtown Invermere. Your kindness is very appreciated.

B. B.’s Home and Design Services Renovations, Masonry & Handyman Services, Blinds, House checks, eavestrough/ yard cleaning/dump runs. 250-688-2897 or 403-861-8782

Cheers to Stolen Church coffee for donating to the St. Patrick’s Day Tea.

Cheers to Kandi at Couture Beauty for the great haircut. I’m very happy. I will be back!

THE HEARTFELT COMPANION

Cheers to Palliser Printing for donating a large print crossword. The seniors love it!

Produces up to 12 litres of water per hour. Compact, light-weight, effective, simple to use, simple to maintain, inexpensive, no electricity required, no replacement parts, lasts a lifetime. Treat unsafe piped water, lake, river and stream, rain water, and canal water. See www.cabincleanwaterfilter.com

Cheers to Kirsten H. for treating me to dinner. It was a great evening with great conversation.

LAWN RANGER

250-342-9222

Lawn & Dump Services

• Yard Cleans

• Hedge & Brush Trims

• Dump Runs

Cheers to the O.K. Tire staff. We have been customers for many years and want you to know that you are great at what you do. We appreciate the excellent service.

A great big Cheers to Fred and Richard at K5!  Great service; great people.  I appreciate you always taking such good care of my car for me. Carol B.

Local Electrical Contractor looking for Journeyman Electrician. Wage DOE. Email resume to: ekelectric@telus.net.

Help Wanted: Cross River Education and Retreat Centre www.crossriver.ca Seasonal cook required, May 15 - September 30, 2024 Email resume and salary expectations to: rob@crossriver.ca Parttime housekeeping required for various times during summer Part-time maintenance/ carpenter helper required for various times during summer rob@crossriver.ca

Cheers to Sobeys, Cris (posters) Gail (baby blanket) Elaine (apron) and to all the people that attended Edgewater/Radium Hospital Auxiliary St. Patrick’s Day Tea!! What a wonderful event.

Cheers to Nozomi for making such adorable crochet chicks for our Grade 3 class. The gesture was very thoughtful and a lovely surprise.

Ken Tegart and family would like to thank all the friends and family who helped make the celebration of Ken’s 95th birthday such a great day.

B. B.’s Home and Design Services Renovations, Masonry & Handyman Services, Blinds, House checks, eavestrough/ yard cleaning/dump runs. 250-688-2897 or 403-861-8782

4 bedroom, 3 bathroom home in Windermere for long term rental.

THE HEARTFELT COMPANION

1 year lease $2500/ month plus utilities. 403-519-9634

Services for Seniors. Since 2014 we’ve provided kind and compassionate non-medical care, transportation to Cranbrook, overnight care, meal prep, grocery shopping and more. Excellent local references. 250-341-5683 Heartfeltcompanionservices. com

Landscaping, Asphalt Pads, General Contracting, Clean ing Gutters, House Checks, Pressure Washing. Call Ryan 604-346-5087

Produces up to 12 litres of water per hour. Compact, light-weight, effective, sim ple to use, simple to main tain, inexpensive, no electric ity required, no replacement parts, lasts a lifetime. Treat unsafe piped water, lake, river and stream, rain water, and canal water. See www.cabin cleanwaterfilter.com

Chisel Peak Medical Clinic is looking for a student to join our team for the summer. If you are graduating this year or will be returning to university we would love to hear from you. Please drop off your resume, or email it to medicalclinic@chiselpeak.ca

Chisel Peak Medical Clinic is looking for a student to join our team for the summer. If you are graduating this year or will be returning to university we would love to hear from you. Please drop off your resume, or email it to medicalclinic@chiselpeak.ca

Mac-Neil Landscaping is looking for hard working individuals to join our team this season. No experience needed, wage based on skills that you bring. Please send email to gord@mac-neil.com if you want to join our great company.

Mac-Neil Landscaping is looking for hard working individuals to join our team this season. No experience needed, wage based on skills that you bring.

Please send email to gord@mac-neil.com if you want to join our great company.

Help Wanted: Cross River Education and Retreat Centre www.crossriver.ca Seasonal cook required, May 15 - September 30, 2024 Email resume and salary expectations to: rob@crossriver.ca Parttime housekeeping required for various times during summer Part-time maintenance/ carpenter helper required for various times during summer

Rent a deer proofed community garden bed at Groundswell Mt Nelson or the Groundswell Greenhouse Garden and serve organic veggies all summer long.  Garden with friends, learn lots. To events@groundswellnetwork.ca Cheers to our Home Care Nurses!! They are amazing. I appreciate the help you’ve given me to deal with a life changing surgery with dignity and grace!

A special shout out to Gabbie, Jenn, Kelsey and Carol! You ladies are ROCK STARS!! With gratitude from Lisa

Cheers to Bonnie M. for treating me to dinner. It was a nice evening with great company and conversation.

HUGE cheers to Jacquie, Nick, all your staff, and especially Kathryn and Destiny at the Black Forest. It was another wonderful dinner for a special birthday celebration. Everyone raved about the food and service. You managed all 17 of us with such grace.

Services for Seniors. Since 2014 we’ve provided kind and compassionate non-medical care, transportation to Cranbrook, overnight care, meal prep, grocery shopping and more. Excellent local references. 250-341-5683 Heartfeltcompanionservices. com

Alpine Building Operations is looking for lawn maintenance staff at Panorama Resort. Duties include mowing, weed trimming, garbage removal, skid steer operation and general labor. Phone: 250-2700435

Doug’s Small Engine Tune-ups and repairs. Chain saws, mowers and much more. For professional service call 250-342-6068

Lawn & Dump Services

•

Email: alpinebuildingops@gmail.com

Cheers to the lady (I’m sorry, I don’t know her name) that works at the Invermere transfer and recycling station. She is always pleasant, always working, and maintains that entire area impeccably clean and in tip-top shape!

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• Dump Runs

LAWN RANGER

The family of James Douglas Hagman sadly announce his sudden passing on March 13, 2024, at his home in Radium, BC. James, a community minded gentle soul, served as volunteer fireman for many years and also instructed and certified folks in Core Hunter Training and Firearms Safety here in the valley.

Known by many as Doug, James is survived by his daughter Heather (John) Russell, his son Jeremiah (Khaye) and granddaughter Phoenix Hagman, his son Jessie Hagman, his brothers Terry (Sherry) Hagman and Kevin Hagman, his sister Karen and his close friend Leslie, as well as numerous cousins, nieces, nephews and friends.

James was predeceased by his young wife Sharon, his parents Jim and Ruth Hagman, and his sister Penny Heerschop.

A memorial service for James will be held at Valley Christian Assembly, 4814 Highway Dr. on Highway 93, Windermere, BC on March 30, 2024 beginning at 1 p.m. Lunch to follow, Pastor Justin Furse officiating. Arrangements by McPhersons Funeral Services.

‘Boogie Bash’ is back May 18 at the Eddie

Submitted by Jeff Parry and Stephen Raaflaub

In Loving Memory

Robert Douglas MacQueen 1950-2024

Doug was born to Clarence and Lenora MacQueen on June 17, 1950 in Sydney, Nova Scotia, where he grew up and attended school, joining the RCMP in 1970. While posted in Saskatchewan, he married Judy in 1973 and in 1974 they were blessed with twins.

Doug was transferred back to Nova Scotia where he and Judy, his wife of over 50 years, raised their boys.

Doug retired from the RCMP in Sydney in 1995 after serving 25 years. They later moved to Calgary to be closer to their grandchildren but moved again to Ladysmith BC, where they enjoyed life on Vancouver Island and operated a yacht club in Maple Bay. After living on the island, RV life was their next adventure. Doug and Judy ran a number of large RV resorts and enjoyed full time RVing throughout Canada and the USA. They finally retired from Fairmont Hot Springs Resort and later settled in Canbrook.

Doug suffered from heart and lung illness for a number of years and passed away at home on Monday, March 18, 2024.

Doug is survived by his wife Judy and twin sons Richard (Britta) and Jeff (Gael), granddaughter Jessica, grandson Callum, step grandson Tom, step-grandaughter Tara, sister-in-law Ruth (Rob) Jameson, their children Amber and Ryan and their children; his brother-in-law Charles (Sandra) Morley and their daughter Nicole Morley, and by his only sister Carolyn Pynn (nee MacQueen), and cousins Russell and Warren Crooks and many friends.

Doug wished for cremation and no services. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to a charity of your choice.

Our family wishes to thank the Paramedics and Fire Department of Cranbrook for their help on Monday, and a special thank you to Dr. William Brown and the hospital and home care department in Invermere, Dr. Erin Sawatsky, and Kim Shatford, RN, of the Heart Foundation Clinic in Cranbrook. Their care was endless and gave us time to share with Doug.

Arrangements entrusted to McPherson Funeral Services in Cranbrook, British Columbia.

Mountain Home Productions is proud to announce the ‘Boogie Bash’ is back at Eddie Mountain Memorial Arena May 18 with award winning Canadian blues guitarist and bandleader Colin James and special guests from Invermere, Humongous Fungus.

Tickets go on sale April 4th and include a limited number of discounted early bird tickets and VIP area seating. The VIP tickets will allow for a private area near the stage, use of the upstairs lounge and private bars. Tickets are available through SHOWPASS. An ad in next week’s Pioneer will give a ticket link.

Mountain Home Productions (MHP) traces its origins back to the pandemic, where the collaborative efforts of Stephen Raaflaub, Jeff Parry, and Kelly Carlson emerged to sustain Mountain Home Yoga (MHY) amid the challenging times. Both Kelly and Stephen, being yoga teachers, joined forces with Jeff, who sought a space to continue his practice. Together, they innovatively introduced a streaming version of Mountain Home Yoga, allowing the company to thrive without in-person sessions.

Simultaneously, Jeff's company, Annerin Theatricals/Jeff Parry Promotions, created the Beyond Van Gogh (BVG) immersive art exhibit. The exhibit has played in 60 North American cities to date, opening for its UK debut in Liverpool, England in mid June. Each BVG exhibit incorporated Mountain Home Yoga, enriching the experience

with a specially crafted yoga class that focused attention on the art using yoga postures. This unique blend of yoga and art became a resounding success, particularly when practised in front of Van Gogh's immersive experience, creating a beyond mind-blowing and truly exceptional experience in this innovative format.

The Columbia Valley is a magical place filled with a diverse range of offerings, from outdoor adventure to a vibrant sense of community. Since the pandemic, the Columbia Valley has seen a surge of people coming to the area to experience the beauty and slower style of living. With this growth, it provides new opportunities, and as Jeff spent more time here, he began to realize the vast untapped commercial potential of the music and entertainment industry.

In collaboration, Stephen and Jeff founded Mountain Home Productions with a shared vision of orchestrating impactful events that not only contribute to the community but also foster the growth of local culture and involving local businesses. In 2024, MHP is slating 15 per cent of profits for community initiatives, initially to support the Valley Fitness Centre and the Summit Youth Hub centre in Canal Flats, Invermere and Edgewater.

We are working on announcing further headline acts this summer to bring more music to the Valley. Stay tuned for further information. We are very grateful to be part of the community and eager to contribute to the beauty of the Columbia Valley.

James Douglas Hagman 1955 – 2024

SPORTS

Valley students compete at Ski Nationals

By Steve Hubrecht  steve@columbivalleypioneer.com

A pair of Columbia Valley teens recently took part in the Nordiq Canada Ski Nationals held in Quebec.

David Thompson Secondary School (DTSS) students Anika Rievaj and Virginia Denchuk started their March break a week early this year, leaving the valley to head to Gatineau for the 2024 nordic nationals from March 10 to March 16.

Warm temperatures made for challenging snow conditions at the Nakkertok nordic centre, but that did nothing to dampen Anika and Virginia’s spirit. The pair managed to participate in three separate U18 (under 18 years old) races, although the lack of snow (and the slushy nature of what little snow there was) meant some of the events they were to take part in had to be altered or cancelled at the last minute. They returned to the valley with plenty of positive memories.

“It is great being able to compete with athletes across Canada that have the same ambitions and interests as me. Nordic skiing has such a strong supportive community and it is really fun being able to get together with other clubs and ski with each other all season creating life long relationships and memories,” Anika told the Pioneer

“Being at nationals is an amazing experience. The fact that everyone, all 500-plus athletes, are there because they have the same passion and goal as me makes the atmosphere powerful and exciting,” added Virginia.

Anika found connecting with other cross country skiers to be the highlight of her time at Nakkertok, saying that “it is such a cool experience supporting other athletes and creating stronger

relationships with them. We may be in competition, but off the race course we are all really close.”

Both teens were supposed to ski in a one-kilometre skate ski sprint, a seven-and-a-half-kilometre skate ski race, a 15-kilometre classic ski race, and a classic ski team sprint race. But the snow conditions meant classic ski events of any kind were out of the question, so Anika and Virginia ended up racing the one-kilometre skate ski spring, the seven-and-a-half kilometre skate ski race, and an alternate five kilometre skate ski race.

“It was really warm out and people were racing in a T-shirt and shorts. We really struggled with snow and volunteers were working day and night shovelling and making enough snow. We were only able to race on two and a half kilometres of track the whole time, and it was very difficult to keep the track in decent condition. The snow conditions were super slushy and slow and races had to be re-scheduled or cancelled in order to preserve the track as much as possible,” said Anika. “This was super hard as the plan was constantly changing and thus so did our mindset. We did our best to stay positive and give it the best we could, given the conditions. At the end of the day, everyone was in the same boat so we all had to navigate the conditions together.”

Unlike most sports, nordic skiers do not qualify for nationals based on results in other events. Instead, the top level cross country ski event in Canada is open to any nordic skiers of any ability from across the country, so long as they hold a nordic race licence.

That said, the Outaouais is a long way from the Columbia Valley, and Virginia and Anika spent weeks fundraising more than $6,000 to cover the costs

of participating in nationals. Donations from local private and nonprofit groups helped the pair raise the money.

For Virginia the trip to Gatineau was her second time at nationals (she went last year), but for Anika it was the first time. Both are experienced cross country skiers: Virginia has done the sport for 11 years, and Anika for six.

“I chose nordic skiing because I never liked team sports and it was something that we could do as a family to stay active in the winter. And as I got older, I realized that I enjoyed becoming fit and wanted to build on that,” Virginia told the Pioneer

“I started nordic skiing because all of my friends were in it and it was an affordable winter activity. It is really important to have a supportive community in whatever sport you do and I have really found this in nordic. I find it super important to encourage younger athletes to continue with sport and I try really hard to make sure all the younger

athletes in the (Toby Creek) Nordic Ski Club feel safe, supported and that they always have fun,” said Anika. “Nordic skiing is a very tough sport and it can be super hard to continue, especially if that support is not seen by the athletes. Our club has gone through a lot of changes recently and it is super important to show the younger athletes what is possible and that it is a sport for life, especially when coaching and organization is limited.”

Toby Creek Nordic Ski Club general manager Quentin Randall said in an email that “it’s exciting to see (Virginia and Anika) represent our community on the national stage.

Opportunities like this are the result of Virginia and Anika's hard work, as well as support from community members who build and maintain trails, volunteer to coach, and support our club in one way or another . . . everyone in our club is very proud of them.”

Anika Rievaj (top photo) and Virginia Denchuk recently competed in the 2024 Nordiq Canada Ski Nationals in Gatineau, Quebec.

Invermere resolution rejected

By Steve Hubrecht  steve@columbiavalleypioneer.com

The provincial government has turned down a Union of British Columbia Municipalities (UBCM) resolution that originated in Invermere.

The UBCM has asked the province for more flexibility in its funding requirements for the Growing Communities Fund.

One of the current requirements is that local municipalities own any affordable housing or purpose built rental project that the funds are used for.

This requirement struck Invermere councillors the wrong way earlier this year, as it prevents them from using the fund for some of the affordable housing efforts currently underway in the district.

and operates the affordable housing units.

Invermere councillors outlined that this arrangement makes sense since the nonprofits usually have much more expertise at managing housing, and the district does not have enough money to own and manage affordable housing on any kind of meaningful scale.

They crafted a resolution asking the Ministry of Municipal Affairs to get rid of the ownership requirement. The UBCM approved the resolution by vote, and it was passed on to the ministry.

The ministry responded in a recent letter, telling the UBCM and District of Invermere that “local government ownership is considered crucial to this program as it helps ensure accountability, and the continuity of the maintenance and renewal of the funded infrastructure.”

In the past the district has partnered with local nonprofit entities (notably the Family Dynamix Association) and will likely in the future (such as with the Columbia Valley Housing Society), and in these cases

The ministry said no, but not without burying the sentence at the bottom of a long-winded paragraph.

Invermere councillors and district staff were withering in their assessment of the letter.

The District of Invermere is disappointed that its resolution endorsed by the UBCM has been turned down by the province.

NATURE FESTIVAL

MAY 6-12, 2024

WINGS ‘WAY OVER’ THE ROCKIESTHE BIG PICTURE

Music Concert

OvertheMoon

Friday, May 10, 2024

100+ events

Online Auction

Online Events Calendar Preview begins Thursday, March 28 10am MDT

Online Ticket Sales begin Tuesday, April 9 10am MDT

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

Minister: Brent Woodard

Sundays at 10:30 am, in-person or on Zoom. For the Zoom link, please visit our website at wvsm.ca. 110 - 7th Ave. in Invermere.

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: Saturday 5 pm, Sunday 9 am St. Joseph’s, Radium: Sunday 11 am

Father Francis Dela Cruz | 712 -12th Ave., Invermere 250-342-6167

ST. PETER’S LUTHERAN CHURCH

Sunday 1:30 p.m. Worship Service at Valley Christian 4814 Highway Drive, Windermere lutheranstpeter@gmail.com

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

Gala Dinner

Keynote Speaker

BobMcDonald

Saturday, May 11, 2024

www.wingsovertherockies.org

CHURCH OF JESUS CHRIST OF LATTER-DAY SAINTS

Worship Service, Sunday, 10 a.m. Relief Society, 11:15 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

Cool reflection - An otter relaxes on the edge of the ice on Lavington Pond.

PHOTO SYD DANIS

PHOTO: ROBERT EDE