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VALLEY NEWS
Survey reveals concerns over lake impacts
By Steve Hubrecht steve@columbiavalleypioneer.com
A survey released by the Lake Windermere Ambassadors (LWA) points to concerns over the waterbody’s capacity to accommodate all of its recreational activities when it comes to safety and water quality.
The month-long survey, conducted in late summer and early fall 2023, is part of a larger two-year project studying recreational impacts on Lake Windermere. Last year a report on recreational impact and sediment quality in Lake Windermere — an earlier part of the same two-year project — showed elevated levels of arsenic, copper and lead in the lake, as well as very high densities of an algal bloom-forming and potentially toxic phytoplankton cyanobacteria at Kinsmen Beach.
The 2023 public survey shows community concern over the recreational carrying capacity of Lake Windermere, said the Ambassadors in a press release accompanying the survey results.
Among the key findings, the group explained that the survey “revealed a strong preference for non-motorized activities, with swimming — 85 per cent (of respondents) and paddling/stand up paddle boarding (SUP) — 80 per cent (of respondents) — being the most popular. Activities like fishing and boating also featured prominently, but to a lesser extent.
More specifically, the survey data showed 30 per cent of respondents choosing boating as a preferred type of recreation on Lake Windermere, and 30 per cent of respondents choosing fishing.
“A significant 77 per cent of respondents believe there should be a maximum number of boats allowed on the lake at any one time. Safety concerns
were highlighted by 56 per cent of respondents who feel the lake is already over capacity, with many reporting issues with aggressive boating and wake impacts,” continued the Ambassadors.
In the survey data, 23 per cent of respondents believed there should not be a maximum number of boats on the lake at any one time. Aside from the 56 per cent who feel the lake is already over capacity, 28 per cent feel it does sometimes reach capacity; six per cent feel that the lake is indeed busy, but that there is room for more boats; three per cent have no concerns at all; and seven per cent chose ‘other’ as their answer.
For safety concerns, respondents were asked to rate their concern on a scale of ‘one’ to ‘five’, with ‘one’ indicating you never feel unsafe on the lake, and ‘five’ indicating you very often feel unsafe on the lake. A total of 48 per cent chose ‘four’ or ‘five’ (25 per cent ‘five’ and 23 per cent ‘four’), showing they either very often or at least somewhat frequently feel unsafe on the lake; a total of 24 per cent chose ‘one’ or ‘two’ (10 per cent ‘one’ and 14 per cent ‘two’); showing they never or only infrequently feel unsafe; and 27.5 per cent were in the middle, choosing ‘three’ on the scale.
“The community expressed considerable concern (in the survey) over the ecological health of the lake. Key issues include shoreline erosion, with 68 mentions (in the survey); water quality, including drinking water safety; and the impact of large boat waves on the ecological values of the lake,” said the Ambassadors. “While there is strong support for new bylaws to regulate boat activities, respondents emphasized the need for effective enforcement. About 87 per cent would adhere to voluntary codes of conduct to protect the lake’s sensitive areas and water quality.”
Continued on page 5
RCMP REPORT
Sgt. Ed deJong
Columbia Valley RCMP
On June 29 police responded with EHS and Windermere Fire Rescue to Windermere Community Beach for a 47-year-old male drowning victim. The male was transported to hospital and flown via STARS helicopter to Calgary Foothills Hospital where he sadly passed away. There is nothing suspicious regarding the death; it is suspected he may have suffered a medical event while in the water.
On June 26 police received a call regarding a male staggering to his vehicle and getting in the driver’s seat. Police responded and conducted patrols, locating the vehicle a short time later.
The driver was spoken to and detained for an impaired driving investigation. The driver provided two
Average Water Temperature: 18.6°C
Average Water Depth: 4.7 m
Average Turbidity: 1.5 NTU
Average D.O.: 10.0 mg/L
Average pH: 7.6
Water colour was clear at the north sites and a cloudy green colour with lower clarity at the south site. Most likely due to runoff inflows coming into the lake from the south end. We notice a lot of pollen in the upper water column, and the areas near Windermere had a lot of debris on the surface. Most likely resulting from freshet runoff from Windermere Creek.
samples of his breath confirming he was grossly intoxicated by alcohol. Impaired driving charges have been forwarded to Crown for approval.
On June 27 the Columbia Valley RCMP responded to a cement truck rollover at the intersection of Hwy 93/95 and Fairmont Resort Road. The loaded truck failed to negotiate the turn and flipped on its side. The driver was taken to Cranbrook hospital with a possible concussion. The investigation continues.
The Columbia Valley RCMP are looking for assistance to locate Lukas Wokoeck for outstanding warrants. Wokoeck is believed to be in the Brisco/Edgewater area and is described as a 35-year-old Caucasian male with brown hair, green eyes, standing 175 cm (5’9”) tall and weighing approximately 77 kg (170 lbs). If you have any information, don’t approach but call the Columbia Valley RCMP at 250-342-9292.
Thank you this week to Emma and to the crew at the District of Invermere for supplying the boat.
To volunteer with the Ambassadors on the lake this summer, please contact us at (250) 341-6898 or info@lakeambassadors.ca
Invermere launches composting survey
By Steve Hubrecht steve@columbiavalleypioneer.com
The District of Invermere is taking steps to set up a municipal composting program and wants input from the general public.
The idea of such a program has been discussed, off and on, by Invermere council for several years. But the plan is now gathering momentum and next week the district will launch a survey to gauge residents’ opinions on the program and how it ought to operate.
“It’s been on the agenda for a while now,” new Invermere planner Amy Fletcher told the Pioneer. “The idea is to divert food waste out of the landfill.” (See an upcoming issue of the Pioneer for a profile of Fletcher.)
The survey will be available online and in hard copy until July 19. Links to the online version will be posted on the District of Invermere website, and hard copies can be obtained at the district office downtown.
A key point that officials hope to glean from the survey is whether residents favour a series of several communal compost collection sites (such as exist in Canmore) or weekly curbside compost collection (similar to garbage pickup).
The program was also discussed during last week council’s meeting. Invermere director of public works and operations Angela MacLean explained that the compost collected — whether through communal collection sites or through curbside collection — will go to the new Regional District of East Kootenay (RDEK) composting facility being built in Athalmer, between the sewage lagoons and Ray Brydon Park. That facility is still under construction, but the pavement is poured, the mechanical and electrical systems are in place, and there are just a few outstanding pieces left to go, outlined MacLean, adding that “it should be operational in the fall.”
The Athalmer composting facility will not have finished compost available to the public, explained MacLean in response to a question from the gallery at the council meeting.
“I understand that they are looking at maybe using some of it for the top layer in the landfills,” added Invermere Mayor Al Miller.
Invermere corporate officer Kindry Luyendyk noted that curbside compost programs are “still fairly new in places that are in major wildlife corridors” and that the entire Columbia Valley, of course, is a wildlife corridor.
Another member of the audience said that, in her opinion, once-a-week
Lake survey concerns
Continued from page 3
Lake Windermere Ambassadors board chair Taoya Schaefer told the Pioneer that “our survey shows an overwhelming majority of people prefer non-motorized water sports.” This she said confirms the findings of the third Vital Signs report released by the Columbia Valley Community Foundation (CVCF) in early 2023. That report found that 83 per cent of second home owners in the valley preferred non-motorized water sports.
“Between the two surveys, it seems that clearly people would love a quieter lake,” said Schaefer. She hastened to add, however, that the survey does not show — and the Ambassadors are not raising – objections to all kinds of motor boats on Lake Windermere. “The problems seem to be related very specifical-
CVBA responds
The Columbia Valley Boating Association (CVBA) told the Pioneer that a very low number of people actually completed the survey.
It added the survey was not known to most members of the boating community, noting that only 27 per cent of respondents were part-time residents who make up a large portion of the boating community.
curbside compost collection might not be frequent enough, precisely because Invermere is in a wildlife corridor.
“I don’t think that works,” she said. “It (compost) can be pretty stinky stuff. Some people won’t like to keep it in their home. And not everyone has a garage or shed to store it in. So they’ll leave it outside, even though they are not supposed to, and it will attract wildlife.”
Invermere councillor Gerry Taft felt that adding curbside composting
collection in the district along with curbside garbage and recycling pickup would be impressive.
“Invermere is one of the only communities — maybe the only community — in the Columbia Valley to have curbside collection services. In Radium there is no curbside collection of anything. In all the (unincorporated) communities on the east side of the lake there is no curbside collection of anything,” he pointed out.
ly to really large wake boats. And really that is just a small number of the boats on the lake. Most of the smaller boats don’t make such large wakes or so much noise.”
The Ambassadors’ online survey ran from August 31 to October 1 in 2023 and garnered 222 responses. The nonprofit group combed through names and email addresses of respondents to make sure some respondents were not filling it in more than once. Of the 222 respondents, 71 per cent were fulltime residents; 27 per cent were second home owners or otherwise part-time residents; and two per cent were visitors.
“The high response rate and detailed input highlight the community's vested interest in maintaining the lake as a safe and sustainable resource,” said the Ambassadors.
The CVBA stated that policy should be driven by lake users.
“There was no question about where in the valley respondents reside or use the lake.”
The group also pointed out the Invermere portion of the lake is frequently busy while the south half is completely empty.
The CVBA has already initiated a boaters’ code of conduct and has lobbied the government for enhanced enforcement.
The District of Invermere wants to set up municipal composting and is seeking input from local residents. PHOTO TERR24/GETTY IMAGES
News a labour of love at CVP
Editorial
Unless you’re in the news gathering business, it’s hard to relate to the ‘daily’ challenges of operating a ‘weekly’ newspaper.
Making all the pieces fit on deadline day is quite a feat. In fact, it’s like a game of Snakes and Ladders; you roll the dice and go up seven rungs, slide down four, win another 10, and fall down 12 on your way to the end goal.
Last-minute changes, late ads, corrections, and oddball spaces to fill are par for the course. Letters need editing, breaking news takes precedence, and stories get ‘bumped’ until the following week (or two). It’s a mad, mad world, but a labour of love.
What makes the Columbia Valley Pioneer tick like clockwork are its weekly advertisers and contributors, not to mention its dedicated staff who really try to keep it a community-minded product.
You won’t see sensationalistic headlines, shocking accident photos, or fake news. Just local stories, features and pictures highlighting what’s happening in your community.
The Pioneer loves it when readers send in their photographs and letters to the editor. If an issue weighs heavy on you, get it off your chest. If you have a solution to a problem, people want to hear (read) about it. Maybe a local politician will pick up on it and start the wheels of change.
Not surprisingly, letters that stray into unfair criticism, racial discrimination or hate of any kind will be filed in the do-not-publish folder. It’s not censorship, it’s social responsibility. Yes, you really have to watch what you say today for fear of being politically incorrect or insensitive. To read what was published in newspapers years ago is quite shocking.
As one can imagine, producing a newspaper is a lot of work, both in print and online (don’t forget to check out the Pioneer’s website at columbiavalleypioneer.com).
But sometimes in the pursuit of perfection, there is imperfection, which proves that we are all human. Just know that we would never use the headline: ‘Police begin campaign to run down jaywalkers.’
While numerous media outlets in Canada have folded over the past few years, the Pioneer has flourished primarily because of local support and its strong sense of community.
Lyonel Doherty, editor
Let’s not create false conflicts
The letter writer under the headline ‘Options for Lake Windermere’ (June 20) asks for civil discussion without mudslinging. To that I would also request that we exclude alarmism, arguments from absurdity and on/off options.
Let’s be clear about what primary problems require solving and whether responsible practices will largely mitigate them.
Many but not all people regularly enjoy a range of activities that activists try to segregate in order to create false conflicts.
In reality, cyclists drive cars, hikers ride mountain bikes, wake surfers go paddle boarding and early morning water skiers also fish. It’s not either or.
Advocacy groups spring up when they feel their cause is under threat and their voices are not
heard. When attacked or vilified the discussion and resulting actions may turn ugly. At their best they are a valuable resource to promote best practices and steer their community toward better outcomes for everyone.
Sometimes education won’t mitigate a problem fast enough to prevent permanent damage and regulation is required. Invasive species are a good example; once introduced it can be expensive or even impossible to remove.
We can all agree that we love Lake Windermere. Let’s proceed with thoughtful discussion, promote responsible use, mitigate selfish behaviours and only when necessary, regulate.
John Parkin, Windermere
LETTERS
Fix the STR problem before it’s too late
Short-term rentals (STRs) such as Airbnb and VRBO are an issue in the Regional District of East Kootenay.
To address the issue, the RDEK approved a system of Temporary Use Permits (TUPs) in July 2023 and implemented it in October 2023. From the reaction of Area F residents at the June 25 Town Hall meeting in Windermere, the system is not working.
We heard from:
• A businesswoman who houses employees in her home because there is no affordable housing
• An older man who has had to call the police three times due rowdy behaviour at an adjacent STR.
• Hotel operators who can’t find housing for staff and unlike STR owners, pay business taxes, charge tourism taxes, and create and support community initiatives.
• A teacher who had to resign because his long-term rental was sold to be a short-term rental and he couldn’t find housing.
• A group of residents who submitted 11 letters of protest about a TUP application which was subsequently approved.
• Many who wish RDEK had chosen to follow the provincial legislation limiting STRs to primary residences.
We live in Fairmont where 134 properties are listed on Airbnb. Only five of them have applied for a TUP. We live near one such house. Its large deck, bright lighting, hot tub and sound system attracts partiers who drink and swear until late, occasionally throw rocks at deer and leave out garbage that attracts bears. It rents for $750 per night and it’s busy all summer.
The owner lives in Calgary, uses a property manager, and pays no business tax. Like most STR owners, he hasn’t
even applied for a permit and why would he? There are no deadlines to apply or consequences for not applying for this $1000 piece of paper. Almost a year after the policy was approved, there still are no consequences. For those who do apply, the district has rubber stamped every applicant, no matter the number or nature of complaints that have been made.
While short-term rentals bring in tourists who support local businesses, their impact on communities cannot be understated. First, they make property unaffordable. After all, it’s more profitable to run an STR than a long-term rental, so there are fewer places to rent. When single family homes become revenue-generating machines, property values increase to the point home ownership becomes unattainable for many. Second, short-term rentals change the very nature of communities. Our communities were designed for families. They have been enhanced with tax dollars and volunteer work to include parks and walking trails and bike paths and libraries and community gardens and waterside facilities. As former homes become a revenue stream for absentee investors, our neighbourhoods see an unending stream of holidaymakers who use this infrastructure, often with no recognition of community standards or respect for the way of life we have built.
We wonder why the RDEK’s board of directors is so keen to accept unlimited numbers of short-term rentals. We wonder why they have designed a permit process with no enforcement measures. Don’t they care about the quality of life of the people who elect them? Do they own short-term rentals? Would they be negatively impacted financially should they implement a STR policy like
that of the provincial government that requires that the STR also be the primary place of residence?
Studies have determined that social connections are an important, maybe the most important factor impacting community happiness. How can that happen if your ‘neighbour’ changes every three days?
A balance needs to be found between making money and community well-being, but what’s the right balance? We see the balance tipping away from those who built our communities. We see the essence of our friendly mountain communities disappearing in the interests of the wealthy few.
What kind of communities do we want? Ones filled with short-term rentals that are owned by absentee investors and guests with no emotional or monetary investment in the community? Or ones where people know their neighbours, depend on them in times of crisis, rally together to build and maintain trails, and volunteer for events like Wings Across the Rockies and FireSmart?
What kind of communities do we want? It’s a question that needs to be answered before it’s too late.
Len and Nicola Ramsey, Fairmont Hot Springs
Short-term rentals in the RDEK are still a bone of contention with some residents like Len and Nicola Ramsey. GETTY IMAGES
New municipal stage may be costly to utilize
By Steve Hubrecht steve@columbiavalleypioneer.com
The District of Invermere has a new mobile stage, purchased earlier this spring, but exactly how and when it will be available for use by community groups and nonprofit organizations is proving more complicated than expected.
Invermere council discussed the issue at length during last week’s meeting, prompted by a request from the Columbia Valley Rockies to use the stage during the upcoming Bull Riding in the Rockies event on Friday, July 19. The event is one of the largest fundraisers for the Columbia Valley Rockies hockey team and occurs in the downtown rodeo grounds — the empty lot on 13th Street to the east of the Invermere Curling Club. The event usually includes a dinner and dance with live music. It’s for this post-rodeo party that the Rockies want to use the new stage.
The district acquired the stage — a Stageline SL 75 — in March, purchased using Resort Municipality Initiative (RMI) money. The provincially run RMI program sees revenue from hotel taxes returned to B.C.’s 14 designated resort municipalities (Invermere-Panorama is one of the 14), with the caveat that it can only be spent on certain projects, which generally are supposed to help enhance local tourism industries.
Invermere had hoped to use the stage at some of the many events that happen in the district and throughout the Columbia Valley, but there’s a catch: it may end up costing a lot more money (and costing district staff a lot more time) than originally anticipated.
Part of the problem is that the stage can only be transported, set up, or taken down by District of Invermere staff who are certified to do so. Those staff must also remain on site to monitor the stage for the duration of the event.
Invermere now has four staff members certified to do the work, but when the training fees are factored in, and when wages for the hours that staff must spend — moving the stage, setting it up, watching it for as long as the event takes, pulling it apart, and moving it back to its storage place — are also considered, using the stage even just once costs a pretty penny. Some Invermere council members pegged that price as much as $3,000 to $4,000 per use.
A recent Invermere council discussion included a request to use the new portable stage for the
What’s more, the District of Invermere is beset by the same labour shortage difficulties as the rest of the Columbia Valley, and whatever time district staff spend setting up and babysitting the stage is time taken away from their regular duties.
Invermere councillor Gerry Taft expressed concern during the council meeting.
“That’s quite a lot for the district to absorb, in cost and in time,” he said before ruefully adding, however, that if the district actually charges $3,000 or $4,000 for local nonprofit groups to use the stage, precious few of them will be able to afford it.
“We want to see it (the stage) used, of course,” he said, suggesting that the district should track use and costs for the summer. “Let’s see what the costs really are. If it truly does cost $3,000 to $4,000 in labour to use it, and it’s up for the Wednesday night music (the Locals Live Concert Series in Pothole Park) and there is a crowd of 40 people, then that does not make sense for us financially. If it draws a crowd of 200 people, on the other hand, that’s a different story,” he said.
“Right now it sounds like we are just throwing darts around on this,” said councillor Kayja Becker, agreeing with Taft that a firmer understanding of the cost of stage
use would be useful.
Invermere chief administrative officer Andrew Young replied that “we are not exactly throwing darts, but it (the cost) is a guesstimate.”
Invermere Mayor Al Miller explained that in the past the Rockies had used a stage belonging to Rocky Mountain School District No. 6 for Bull Riding in the Rockies, but that, from what he understands, the school district is no longer renting out that stage.
Becker pointed out that, with the event only a few weeks away, “it may be too late now for Bull Riding to get a private stage . . . we may be their only option and we don’t want to be the party poopers that killed Bull Riding.”
Councillor Theresa Wood concurred that “if we are the only option, we are kind of obliged to make it work.”
In the end, council opted to offer the Rockies use of the stage, subject to district staff availability.
Young outlined that the RMI money is “very valuable” and that “there needs to be some careful rethinking of some of the projects we are spending (the RMI money) on.” He added that “this particular stage is an interesting one . . . it has more complexity to it than was originally envisioned.”
Young likened the stage to the Columbia Valley Centre, saying the centre is “also complex . . . but when it runs well, it really runs well.” He expressed hope that the stage could be the same.
Invermere councillor Gerry Taft has raised concerns about the user costs of the new municipal stage.
upcoming Bull Riding in the Rockies event.
PHOTO CAIO PAAGMAN
Area F volunteer given big honour
Submitted by RDEK
Anyone who knows Doug Sinclair’s work in the Windermere Fire Department won’t be surprised that he is this year’s Volunteer of the Year in Area F.
The founding member of the fire brigade was recognized for more than 45 years of volunteerism and service at last week’s Area F Town Hall meeting.
“Doug’s devotion to teaching, leading, and serving his community has bettered all of those around him,” said RDEK Electoral Area F director Susan Clovechok.
“He has been an invaluable member of the fire department and his com-
mitment and dedication to his community are extraordinary.”
Sinclair was involved in every aspect of the Windermere Fire Department from its creation; from purchase of the first engine, and rallying the first firefighters, to building the original hall.
He remains active and takes a leadership role mentoring recruits and showing all members the tricks of the trade. His impact has been significant throughout his unwavering service as a firefighter, officer, trainer, and mentor.
“Doug’s legacy is evident in his leadership succession, with his son now serving as chief and his grandson as a dedicated firefighter,” Clovechok noted.
Area F Director Susan Clovechok congratulates Volunteer of the Year Doug Sinclair, a veteran firefighter.
PHOTO SUBMITTED
A mountain bluebird shows off its beauty while carrying a snack in mid-flight.
PHOTO SYD DANIS
OUT OF OFFICE…
Friday nights in the summer are always a good time!
Valley folks love a good weekend by the lake, hanging with friends and family around a campfire, or cruising on a dirt road to a favourite spot in the sun. It’s hard to find a day without something going on around town, how can it get any better? Well, lovers of everything East Kootenay, First Fridays Invermere is back for another great arts infused summer in the Valley. Launched in 2018 and originally known as Art Walk Invermere, First Fridays has grown into a dynamic evening out and about town with art events, live music in the streets, gallery shows, workshops, delicious food, and latenight shopping showcasing the Valley’s East Kootenay talents. Invermere’s First Fridays is a pop-up choose your own adventure arts and culture crawl. Walk, bike, drive… horses are welcome. Enjoy an evening of fun with friends and a great night out around town (because you know we have a pretty darn good thing going on here).
From 5 PM to 8 PM on four dates throughout the summer from June to September (pssst…it’s the First Friday of the month) summer fun is ramping up. Start up top at the Crossroads visiting the world-famous Bavin Glass Studio and make your way down the hill stopping at your favourite spots, old and new. Featuring new art shows and artist talks each First Friday, the Art Spots of Invermere showcases talented artists from near and far. You can even get your hands dirty with workshops and interactive activities, from painting and pottery to awesome community art projects, there’s a kind of art happening down here for everyone. Adding to the evening hype, our local shops are open late until 8pm, making that rush after work a little bit more fun. Take your time to try on that dress and make it a date night with a stop at one of Invermere’s sunny patios for drinks or a great meal, you may want to line up a babysitter for the next one.
Explore the Friday Night Flea Market beside Birds Eye Boutique or visit venues up and down 7th Ave for with live local music like The Yacht Rocker! He’s back and he wants you there shaking those maracas! Each First Friday will be a unique experience, so you get the chance each month to have a new night on the town… see, we told you to get a babysitter. First Fridays aren’t just all about that art stuff, it’s about the Kootenay kid at heart and while that can really mean anything (IYKYK, like we said horses are welcome), your best t-shirt and jeans are the dress code, especially on a Friday night in the East Kootenays.
Find First Fridays on Facebook and Instagram @f1rstfridays #cvfirstfridays… or just come on down July 5, August 2, and September 6 from 5-8 pm.
Submitted by First Fridays
Thursday, July 4
• 9:00am-12:00pm: Pickleball Mt Nelson Athletic Park. Drop-in.
• 10:00am-12:00pm: Little Explorers. Canal Flats Lions Park – look for the CBAL sign. Outdoor Learning for children ages 2-6 and caregivers. Siblings welcome. Age-appropriate learning and fun in nature. Come prepared to have fun, get dirty, maybe even wet. Free to attend but registration is required. 250-409-4251 or wvcoordinator@cbal.org to register or for more information.
• 10:30am-11:30am: Senior’s Fitness Columbia Valley Centre, $2 dropin.
• 10:30am-11:00am: Storytime in Edgewater. Edgewater Community Hall Park. Join Radium Library for stories, songs, and a craft! Geared towards preschool ages but all are welcome!
• 11:15am-12:30pm: World of Curiosities; Edgewater Summer Reading Club. Edgewater Community Hall Park. Join Radium Library for this FREE bi-weekly program with fun crafts and activities for ages 5-12. Registration is required: info@radiumbclibrary.ca
• 2:00pm-3:00pm. Needles & Hooks. Invermere Public Library. Join us on the 1st & 3rd Thursdays of each month for Needles & Hooks. Bring your current yarn project and meet with other makers! All welcome. 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, July 5
• 6:00pm-8:00pm: Music on Main. It’s time to get groovy at Music on Main! Running alongside Market on Main, this event showcases talented local bands and artists: this week is ‘Waltzing Matilda’s’.
• 9:00am-12:00pm: Pickleball Mt Nelson Athletic Park. Drop-in. 10:30am-2:30pm: World of Curiosities; Radium Summer Reading Club. Radium Library. A FREE weekly program with fun crafts and activities for ages 5-12. Registration is required (info@radiumbclibrary. ca)! Ages 5-8- 10:30am to 11:45am. Ages 9-12- 1:15pm to 2:30pm 4:00pm-8:00pm: Market on Main. Radium Hot Springs Main Street - NEW location! Join us every summer Friday evening from 4-8 pm. on Main Street West. Our market is home to artisans, crafters, farmers, bakers, and more, from Radium and the Columbia Valley. You’ll find homemade and homegrown products, including baked goods, jams, jewelry, essential oils, paintings, candles, and much more. Plus, groove to live music at Music on Main, Fridays 6-8 pm.
• 6:30pm - close: Meat Draw and 50/50 in the Legion! Members and guests welcome!
Saturday, July 6
8:30am-2:00pm: 3D Archery Shoot. Lake Windermere District Rod & Gun Club Range. Two 20 round courses plus Extreme Course option. Two day event – for more information email info@lwdrodgun.com
• 6:00pm-10:00pm: Mountain Al Fresco – Dinner in White. Secret location. Event attendees will enjoy an evening of entertainment, delicious food and great company. This event will take place at a secret location and is to be revealed on the day of the event!
• 7:00pm-9:00pm: Symphony in the Valley. Columbia Valley Centre. The Symphony of the Kootenays returns to the valley with an evening of the best of the classics. The program features over 40 musicians who will be joined, for a portion of the program, by local Ktunaxa drum group Susap-Nana. A great way to start the summer, we invite Columbia Valley residents and visitors to join us. Tickets at sotk.ca
• 9:00am-12:00pm: Pickleball Mt Nelson Athletic Park. Drop-in. 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.
• 6:30pm: Meat Draw and 50/50 in the Legion! Members and guests welcome!
Sunday, July 7
• 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, July 8
• Dusk: Movies in the Mountains. Pothole Park. Enjoy Movies in the Mountains at Pothole Park, Downtown Invermere for a variety of free movie screenings every Monday Night in July and August! Bring a blanket or a chair, cash concession, movie starts at dark. Movies are presented by the District of Invermere. Movies start at dark (time fluctuates each week). Happy Gilmore this week!
Tuesday, July 9
• 5:30pm-7:30pm: Chamber Connections. Radium Brewing. Join the Chamber and Board Members for a casual free monthly networking night. Second Tuesday of each month; no registration required.
9:00am-12:00pm: Pickleball Mt Nelson Athletic Park. Drop-in.
• 10:30am-11:30am: Senior’s Fitness. Columbia Valley Centre, $2 drop-in.
• 6:30pm-8:00pm: Second Winds Community Band. Practice at Invermere Catholic Church Annex. For info please email dalvande@ shaw.ca
7:30pm: Families on Tuesday. Zoom meeting with host Ben Postmus. Families connecting, Families Sharing, Families Supporting Families: Support, Listening, Sharing, Connecting. diversefamilyroots@gmail.com
Wednesday, July 10
9:00am-12:00pm: Pickleball Mt Nelson Athletic Park. Drop-in.
• 10:00am-11:00am: Senior's Yoga Columbia Valley Centre, $2 dropin.
• 10:00am-12:00pm: Little Explorers. Radium Hot Springs, Main Park – look for the CBAL sign. Outdoor Learning for children ages 2-6 and caregivers. Siblings welcome. Age-appropriate learning and fun in nature. Come prepared to have fun, get dirty, maybe even wet. Free to attend but registration is required. 250-409-4251 or wvcoordinator@cbal.org to register or for more information.
• 11:30am-12:00pm: Story Time. Radium Library - preschool & all ages.
• 1:00pm-2:30pm: Nature Journaling. Sinclair Creek Trail parking lot. Walk. Pause. Journal. Create. Breathe. Take a moment to connect with each other and with nature. Share some nature knowledge tidbits and use journaling prompts to inspire your personal reflection and creative freedom. Journals and art supplies provided. Registration required.
• 3:00pm-6:30pm: Wednesday AgriPark Farmer’s Market. Crossroads next to Chamber of Commerce Offices. Local Farmers Market with Live Music. Featuring Farm Fresh Produce; local meat; eggs; and honey. Chefs, artisans, and bakers come to sell their goods in the historic barn. Facebook @ agriparkfarmers
6:00pm-9:00pm: Wednesday Dinners & Meat Draw & 50/50 Invermere Legion. All welcome.
Invermere man wins Roland Michener award
By Steve Hubrecht steve@columbiavalleypioneer.com
Invermere resident Ben Mitchell-Banks was recently honoured with the Roland Michener Award at the Canadian Wildlife Federation (CWF)’s annual general meeting.
The award — named for former Canadian Governor General and noted outdoor enthusiast Roland Michener — is given out each year to an individual who demonstrates commitment and action in the conservation field.
Mitchell-Banks earned this year’s award for his long career in various conservation and environmental public services roles and for his volunteer efforts over the past decade in the Columbia Valley, including the ongoing restoration of Abel Creek (which has been the subject of multiple Pioneer reports through the years).
“I was surprised and honoured to get the award,” Mitchell-Banks told the Pioneer, modestly adding that there are so many other people doing excellent conservation work that he feels deserve recognition above him.
Mitchell-Banks received the award at the CWF meeting in Moncton, New Brunswick on Saturday, June 15.
The CWF is an umbrella group for the various provincial wildlife federations (such as the B.C. Wildlife Federation). The provincial federations in turn serve as umbrella groups for constituents member organizations that include many of B.C.’s local rod and gun clubs (such as the Lake Windermere Rod and Gun Club) and well as other conservation associations.
tain of exactly how he wanted to spend his life. Then one day, he and a friend were in northern B.C. and went through a roadside conservation officer checkpoint.
“I instantly recognized it as something I could do for a career. It had all the components I wanted: working outdoors, working with people and doing something of value,” recalled Mitchell-Banks.
At the time, in the mid to late 1970s, there was a rising environmental consciousness, with issues such as acid rain and nuclear power at the forefront of public discussion, and Mitchell-Banks held those values too. A career in conservation aligned with those values, he realized.
In 1980 he moved to the East Kootenay for a conservation officer posting and immediately fell in love with the region.
In 1985 he changed course, taking a position with the federal Department of Fisheries and Oceans (DFO) as a general duty fisheries officer. This job was interesting too, and involved managing commercial and sport fisheries as well as Indigenous food fisheries.
“There was quite a lot of habitat work,” said Mitchell-Banks.
In 1991 he transferred to the DFO’s South Coast division to take a job with its special investigation unit. This new position had Mitchell-Banks dealing with particularly difficult commercial-scale crimes.
“It was the kind of investigations that a general duty officer just doesn’t have the time or resources or sometimes even the training to deal with,” explained Mitchell-Banks.
Mitchell-Banks was originally born in London, England, but immigrated to Canada as a child with his family in 1964, growing up in Prince Rupert.
“Ever since I was young, I’ve had a love of the outdoors,” said Mitchell-Banks. That passion stayed with him through his teenage years.
When he was 18 and 19 years old, like many young people, he was uncer-
For instance, Mitchell-Banks was, for a time, an undercover agent posing as an English supermarket owner trying to buy a million pounds of fish, poached by Taiwan drift net fleets, canned in Southeast Asia, but smuggled into the European Union as Canadian-caught fish.
Continued on page 13
Ben Mitchell-Banks has been honoured with the Roland Michener Award by the Canadian Wildlife Federation. PHOTOS KIMBERLEY RAE
Mitchell-Banks known for conservation
Continued from page 12
“There was a lot of controversy around the issue at the time,” said Mitchell-Banks. “The investigation resulted in jail time for the Japanese yakuza member who was controlling the racket for the Taiwan ships.”
Although it sounds like a job straight out of a Hollywood blockbuster, Mitchell-Banks clarified that “it was work that could be boring for long stretches, but then yes, could turn on a dime and be quite exciting.”
In 1993 Mitchell-Banks returned to the B.C. conservation officer service, becoming the field supervisor for the service’s newly created special investigations unit. In 1997 he switched roles again, returning to a ‘normal, uniformed’ position as the senior conservation officer for Northeastern B.C. From there he moved into a role with the B.C. Oil and Gas Commission’s compliance and enforcement branch, helping develop new regulations and environmental safeguards for the energy industry.
Finally, in 2011 Mitchell-Banks retired and in 2012 he and his partner Kathleen O’Neill moved to Invermere, in the CastleRock neighbourhood. Not long after that, he met a friend near Abel Creek and the friend told Mitchell-Banks about the problems a dam was creating for the creek. Mitchell-Banks threw himself headlong into the issue.
By 2015 that dam was pulled out and salmon and rainbow trout were able to come partly up Abel Creek. In 2018 a culvert on the creek was rehabilitated, and in summer 2023 another one was replaced. In fall 2023 Lake Windermere District Rod and Gun Club members led by Mitchell-Banks placed 40,000 fertilized Kokanee eggs on a gravel bed in the creek.
In his speech accepting the Roland Michener award, Mitchell-Banks emphasized the benefits of volunteering — for communities, for the environment, and for the volunteers themselves.
“There are significant mental health benefits to volunteering. When you do something that’s not for external reward, internally you get something back. In today’s society, with political divisions, misinformation, false news and cyberbullying, there are a lot of mental health issues,” said Mitchell-Banks, noting that suicide is the second leading cause of death among 15 to 34 year olds, and that suicide is often closely linked with mental health issues.
“I have been trying to encourage local rod and gun clubs to look for ways to involve young people in volunteer capacities in conservation projects, even if those people do have the hunting or fishing backgrounds typical of most rod and gun club members,” said Mitchell-Banks. “It can help everyone.”
Public Notice
In accordance with Forest Planning and Practices Regulation section 20 (1), the public is invited to review and comment on an amendment of CANFOR’s new Forest Stewardship Plan #985 which proposes to add the following forest licenses and licensees/signatories to the FSP:
• FLA78604 – North Star Planing
• FLA91307 – Tobacco Plains Indian Band
• FLA91309 – Lower Kootenay Development Corp.
• FLA93497 – Lower Kootenay Development Corp.
For any questions, to request a meeting/viewing of the proposed amendment wording and/or to provide comments, please contact: Paul Picard, RPF Harvest Planner, Kootenay Woodlands, Canadian Forest Products Ltd 1000 Industrial Road #1, PO Box 2200, Cranbrook, BC, V1C 4C6
Ph.: 250-402-3681
Email: paul.picard@canfor.com
In order to be considered, comments must be received by July 20th, 2024.
David Thompson Secondary School Grad Walk 2024
PHOTOS CHRIS MOSELEY
David Thompson Secondary School Grad Walk 2024
PHOTOS CHRIS MOSELEY
David Thompson Secondary School Grad Walk 2024
PHOTOS CHRIS MOSELEY
David Thompson Secondary School Grad Walk 2024
PHOTOS CHRIS MOSELEY
Canada Day parade unites community
Large crowds turned out to enjoy the Canada Day parade in Invermere on Monday, July 1. Numerous creative entries entertained local residents and visitors alike.
PHOTOS JENNY HUBRECHT
Couple wins top small business award
By Steve Hubrecht steve@columbiavalleypioneer.com
Invermere couple Bryan and Lauren Kroker recently won a prestigious business award.
Their company — Vision Project Services — may only be a few years old, but has gone from strength to strength, and in early June it won the 2024 Canadian SME (small and medium enterprise) Small Business Award for a business with fewer than 50 employees, beating out a field full of cutting-edge artificial intelligence companies.
The pair received the award at gala in Toronto on Friday, June 7.
Bryan, true to his farm boy upbringing and his love of small town Invermere, modestly told the Pioneer that “I was surprised and honoured (to get this award) . . . everything we’ve achieved at Vision Project Services has been done by committee . . . I actually feel that this award belongs with other people who work for me.”
In further evidence of his strong
small town values, he explained that he was surprised to find out the awards gala was quite literally a red carpet affair held at the Metro Toronto Convention Centre (the Met Centre) attended by 700 people.
“I initially thought it would be a smaller, barbecue type event,” he told the Pioneer. “Part of the reason we went is that I thought it would be a really great date night.”
Make no mistake – those small town values are exactly what has helped propel the Krokers to success.
“What probably won us the award was our brand recognition and our growth,” said Bryan.
The company launched in 2021 and offers top-to-bottom construction renovations, interior and exterior, as well as planning and landscaping (as Bryan put it “anything to do with your property, we can do it”).
When Vision Project Services started it had a staff of two. In just three years that’s expanded to a staff of 30 – significant growth indeed. Bryan chalks this
up to a commitment to relationships and honesty, and explained he takes genuine pride in his staff’s personal growth.
This means Vision Project Services is able to attract and retain high-calibre staff, even as the Columbia Valley experiences a labour shortage, he explained.
Bryan grew up on a farm in rural Alberta which he credits with forging his work ethic.
“It gave me problem solving skills and taught me how to operate when times are good and when they are bad” he said.
He had a passion for skiing, and in 2004 he moved west to Kananaskis, then later to the Banff-Canmore area, and became a snowcat operator. Bryan loved the ski industry so much that he spent a couple of years pursuing an ‘endless winter’ – spending the North American winter in Banff-Canmore and then the North American summer at ski
hills in Australia (where it’s winter in July and August). In between he made sure to return to his family’s farm to help with planting in the spring, and harvesting in the fall.
Bryan eventually launched a consulting business, travelling to other ski resorts to teach snowcat operations, and to develop terrain parks, among other things.
In 2016 that role brought him to the Columbia Valley. Bryan fell in love with the place, and it’s now home to him, Lauren and their kids. He has been operations manager at Panorama Mountain Resort for years now, a role he continues in and that he loves even as he and Lauren grow Vision Project Services.
During the awards gala, Bryan used his acceptance speech to encourage other small business owners to focus on what really matters: creating meaningful relationships with other people.
Invermere couple Bryan and Lauren Kroker at the 2024 Canadian SME (small and medium enterprise) Small Business Award gala in Toronto on Friday, June 7.
The delivery schedule for the Columbia Valley Pioneer has changed. Delivery will now occur on Thursday afternoons, and delivery time may vary slightly week-to-week. You will still be able to find the Pioneer in the usual locations, and our E-edition will continue to be available for viewing and downloading in the early morning each Thursday, at columbiavalleypioneer.com
PIONEER CLASSIFIEDS
Cheers to Josette, Irene, Birgit, Jodi, Daniel, Ian, CID, Sherry S. and Val for joining us for the museums painting bee. The trim on the cabins looks excellent thanks to your laborious efforts.
Cheers to Tina at Lambert Kipp Pharmacy for your friendliness and willingness to help when I come into the store.
Cheers to Jamie B. for your help with ordering from Amazon. I really appreciate it.
Cheers to the Volunteers/ staff for the Edgewater Summer Daze Parade, Kevin for his mad grilling skills, Roxanne for her amazing set up/service, Gloria for giving out the Sugar, Gayle, Roberta, & momma Lang for the professional judging, Nancy/Colette for slinging the best cocktails & Jamie & Daniel for “winging” it.
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 End-624 4th St. Invermere. Please call 250-3422424 for more information or to speak with someone from our fellowship.
Narcotics Anonymous. Open meeting.
Mondays 7 pm at the BC Service Building, South End. 624-4th St. Invermere
July 6, 9-12
9th Ave
Cheers to the Lake Windermere Ambassadors for continuing your care and stewardship of our lake. We need more people like you. Well done. Keep up the good work!
Cheers to the EMP Fun Day parent organizers and volunteers! Cheers to Copper Point Golf Club, the Invermere Public Library, Dairy Queen, Black Star and the Invermere Fire Department. We appreciate all the effort and time to put on this annual tradition at our school.
Cheers to Della for the great job on my eyebrows!
Huge CHEERS to Birgit Koster, Sandi Jones and Josette Jarche for their time, effort and support in the search for a bookkeeper for the Windermere Valley Museum.
Cheers to Keija for the wonderful relaxing pedicure.
Sincere cheers to Dr Linda at Lifepath Dental! I chipped a front tooth, not earth shattering but we were leaving for a family reunion the next day. Dr Linda graciously came in the early the next morning so that we could be on our way, with big smiles!
Big Cheers to Roxanne for always being my partner in crime, volunteering for events, helping with school lunches, or anything that we need, you are soo appreciated!
Huge Cheers to Berta and Kyle, Brisco Riding Club, Edgewater Fire Department, Edgewater Seniors, Brock and Leona, and the rest of the Community for making our Summer Daze Parade a success, soo fun!
A big cheers and thanks to Lisa Tenta, principal of Distributed and Alternate Learning in our school district, for her hard work and dedication to students with different learning needs. Your efforts have not gone unnoticed.
Lost: Green Emerald Pendant in Gold Setting. Lost on either Findlay Falls Trail or Source of the Columbia Trail (Canal Flats) on approx. May 25th. If found please contact Janice at kootenay22@gmail.com
I have a number of green 8ft t-bars used to cage fruit trees. Perfect for keeping out deer. They’re available now. $7 each Items located near Edgewater. 403-669-2797 kissjs@telus.net
ary School. Need a pet friendly long term unfurnished accommodation. Responsible pet owner with pet insurance & tenant liability insurance coverage. Reliable, been living in Kimberley & area since 2015 & can provide long term housing reference. Thomas.Golbeck@sd6.bc.ca
ACREAGE FOR SALE
ACREAGES FOR SALE
Last four acreages in Elkhorn Country Estates. 2.5 to 2.89 acre parcels. Individual wells, no building time commitment. Starting at $329,000 + GST For more information, contact Elkhorn Ranches: 250-342-1267 www.elkhornranches.com
baking and quality we have an opportunity for you. If you’re interested in joining a dynamic fun team. Shifts are during the day, there is some flexibility as to the shift – definitely No evenings. Negotiable per hour wage and benefits. Please apply at bighorncafe1@outlook. com or phone 403-861-2978
care, transportation to Cranbrook, overnight care, meal prep, grocery shopping and more. Excellent local references. 250-341-5683 Heartfeltcompanionservices. com
Get-ER-Done Handyman Landscaping, Asphalt Pads, General Contracting, Cleaning Gutters, House Checks, Pressure Washing. Call Ryan 604-346-5087 Well Water Dowsing Call before you drill
GARAGE SALES
VALLEY VIEWS
Clockwise from top left: The Mountain Mosaic Festival (photo by Steve Hubrecht) returned to Invermere after a five-year hiatus with plenty of people turning out on Monday, July 1. Cheri Hann’s sunset in a mirror in Windermere. Larry Halverson’s rainbow along the Columbia River near Brisco. And a bee in a flower by Syd Danis
by Arnold Malone
Canada is an amazing country
In July we celebrate Canada Day. While Canada Day is now over, we still have much to celebrate. We are a lucky population and we live in a special place.
Canada has more national parks than most other countries. In fact, we have so many big national parks that their collective size, about 400,00 square kilometres, is larger than the size of 167 countries. We also have some very old cities. Montreal was established in 1642 and is older than New York. The oldest city in North America is St. Johns, Newfoundland which was formed in 1497.
Given that water, not oil, is likely the geo-political resource in critical demand in the 21st century, it is comforting to know that more than half of the world’s lakes are in Canada.
Mount Logan, Yukon is the tallest mountain in Canada. It also has the largest base of any mountain in the world.
We have the world’s most diverse temperatures and the coldest ever recorded - minus 63 - is equal to the average cold temperatures on Mars. Perhaps because of the cold, we are a cool place because we produce 80 per cent of the world’s maple syrup. We are also the world’s largest importer of roasted coffee.
If you are feeling a tad heavy there is a Canadian solution - go to Hudson Bay where gravity has less pull and there you will weigh less than anywhere on earth. The Canadian Shield is the world’s oldest rock so we Canadians have a rock-solid history.
At the closest point, Russia is only 3.8 km from North America and when you are in Resolute, Nunavut the closest capital city is Moscow, Russia.
Our Indigenous friends have occupied these lands for 15,000 years and the bison is also Indigenous. Speaking about hanging around for a long time, William Lyon Mackenzie King was Prime Minister for more than 20 years.
A Canadian law makes it illegal to kill a sasquatch. Bigfoot will be pleased to know that.
We are gold medal champions at eating doughnuts. We consume more than one billion every year; not bad considering that we have only 0.5 per cent of the world’s population. However, we have a literacy rate of 99 per cent; likely from reading while eating those doughnuts.
The diversity of Canada allows us to experience so much of what nature and humanity has to offer; great varieties of landscapes and wonderfully diverse populations of birds, animals and people.
Perhaps one of the least appreciated values is space. Anyone who has walked the streets of New Deli or Beijing will know the value of space. We are in fact more human when we are not crushed into the personal space of unknown others. Canada is fortunate in having so much space.
Canada has more influence in world organizations than any other country with a population of only 40 million people. We can be very proud of our country; we have so much to celebrate.
About 50 kilometres west of Calgary on the Trans-Canada Highway - for many months - there has been an ongoing collection of people demonstrating while using very large signs demanding freedom. The demonstrators also have signs with nasty words written about a national politician. Nevertheless, they are allowed to express their view. Not one of those organizers nor any of the participants have fallen out of a window of a high-rise building nor have they found themselves in a plane that unfortunately exploded in mid-air. Perhaps the freedom they seek is the freedom they already have.
For all the news that is broadcast about whatever goes wrong on any given day, we are a fortunate group of people. So, thank you Canada.
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
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
or pasugo.com.ph
courtesy
The fireworks display
of the Kinsmen Club of the Windermere Valley wowed the crowd on Canada Day.
PHOTO AMANDA NASON