in honour
John Ashby for his 90th birthday.
than 60 friends and family came to celebrate a local legend who has contributed so
to the
John
a big supporter of ICAN and was a founding member of Summit Trail Makers Society in 2001; he even has his very own hiking trail on Mount Swansea called The Ashby Ascent. John continues to get out and enjoy nature.
Columbia Valley Pioneer staff
A conservation working group wants the provincial government to formally recognize a newly proposed ecological corridor at Columbia Lake.
Kootenay Connect recently presented the initiative to the Regional District of the East Kootenay (RDEK).
Veteran ecologist Marcy Mahr said the Columbia Lake Ecological Corridor would be one of the first established wildlife corridors in the province. Its boundaries would extend from the protected parks along the Rocky Mountains west to the Purcell Wilderness Conservancy, and from Canal Flats to the southern tip of Lake Windermere. It was noted this area is important for many species at risk and for wildlife such as bighorn sheep, badgers, elk, mountain goats, grizzly bears and migratory birds.
The Village of Canal Flats, Area F, and a small portion of Area G are included in the boundary. The RDEK was asked to embrace the idea and consider a resolution of support for the concept, which embraces its own ideology — people care for the land and it takes care of the people.
Mahr said they are proposing a large enough area to support multiple species in a changing climate — a corridor to facilitate their movement with the focus on maintaining
and enhancing connectivity, Fellow research scientist Michael Proctor clarified that the corridor would not be a park, but a place for animals to move without impacting the public.
During question period, Area F director Susan Clovechok asked if the corridor would negatively impact the tourism aspect of people floating down the Columbia River, noting that approximately 20,000 people go through this area yearly.
Proctor said most activities in the corridor are compatible, noting it appears the entry point for floats is north of the lake, so it is not believed that a conflict would exist. “Everyone will get along. It seems very compatible to us.”
Proctor said the proposal doesn’t need any new legislation or changing of laws.
“The province is interested in the idea, we’re just wrestling on how it would look . . . it’s just a recommendation; it’s not a heavy lift for the province or the RDEK,” Proctor said.
Mahr added the proposal is still in draft form and not ready for public consumption.
In the end, the RDEK carried a motion to invite Kootenay Connect to review the Official Community Plan in the Columbia Lake area and report what changes or updates would be required to accommodate the corridor.
Edgewater Senior Society
Edgewater Seniors present an evening slide show on Baffin Island presented by Jim Hoover. April 10, 2026 at 7:00 pm
Edgewater Community Hall
Admission by donation, light refreshments served
By Steve Hubrecht steve@columbiavalleypioneer.com
Radium Hot Springs officials and local residents recently got a first glimpse of what the village’s new purpose-built rental housing project may look like.
The village, like most Columbia Valley communities, has been hit hard by a housing crunch, resulting in an acute shortage of affordable housing and long-term rentals. This was underscored by Radium’s latest housing report and emphasized by planning consultants who helped the village update its Official Community Plan (OCP).
Last spring the village announced it had purchased four acres of land on Ridge Road in north Radium (for $410,000), with the intent of building rental housing and a small park there.
At council’s March 24 meeting, 2B Developments senior project manager Nick Lorraway presented two initial site plan concepts for councillors to consider.
Both plans encompassed 48 units of housing (a mix of one-bedroom, two-bedroom and threebedroom units) arranged in three buildings.
Option A — dubbed the ‘roundabout style’ — had 65 parking stalls, centred on a roundabout in the middle of the parking lot, with a single, central parking lot entrance, and with the green space concentrated near the road. On the other hand, Option B — termed ‘two lots’ — had 61 park-
ing stalls in two distinct parking lots (each with its own entrance), green space in a ‘linear park’ along the side of the development, and a jogged ‘dynamic’ building profile for one of the main buildings.
Radium councillors preferred Option B.
“It’s more attractive, and less industrial looking for sure,” said councillor Erin Palashniuk.
Radium mayor Mike Gray noted that Option B has more windows on the housing units. “I think that actually adds a lot ... it’s not just a door and then one window right beside the door,” said Gray. “And the jog in the building (in Option B), instead of it just being a box, it’s (the building) going to be something more.”
Councillor Christi Ferguson-Huston liked Option B from an emergency response perspective, noting that “two entrances and two exits is always better.”
Neither Option A nor Option B had a hallway in any of the buildings. Instead, each housing unit is accessed by its own exterior doorway.
That will help “enhance a sense of community,” said Lorraway.
2B will next work on more specific housing unit layout and building design, and once that’s done, there will be public consultation with Radium residents.
Gray estimated that consultation will happen in late spring or early summer. “We’re very excited about this project,” said Gray.
By Steve Hubrecht steve@columbiavalleypioneer.com
Time has been top of mind for many Columbia Valley residents recently, and likely will remain so in the coming weeks.
The provincial government announced on March 2 that most of the province would permanently switch to Pacific daylight savings time (PDT, now called just ‘Pacific time’), but left the door open for Kootenay communities to make their own time zone choice. A week and a half later, on March 13, the Regional District of East Kootenay (RDEK) board narrowly voted 8-7 to stop switching between mountain standard time (MST) and mountain daylight savings time (MDT), and stay permanently on MST.
MST and the new ‘Pacific time’ may have different names but are the same time. The vote means that, starting this coming November, the East Kootenay will observe the same time as Vancouver, and be one hour different than Calgary. Up until now, the opposite has been true.
But the RDEK vote — and in particular, the lack of any public consultation with local residents — has sparked a torrent of opinions in the Columbia Valley. Strong emotions swirl on all sides of the issue, with some ardently in favour of the RDEK’s move, some staunchly opposed to it, and still others deeply resentful at the lack of opportunity for citizen feedback.
Radium Hot Springs mayor Mike Gray brought up the time zone change during last week’s council meeting on March 23.
“There has been a tremendous amount of feedback and I wouldn’t be surprised if this comes back to the (RDEK) board to reconsider in
April,” Gray told other councillors.
As Radium mayor, Gray is also a director on the RDEK board, and during the March 13 meeting, he advocated for giving constituents an opportunity to weigh in.
At the March 23 council meeting, Gray explained East Kootenay communities have three main options — keep switching between MST and MDT (as they currently do), move permanently to MST, or move permanently to MDT.
In the many conversations Gray has since had with Radium residents on the topic, “no matter what their opinion is, I try to argue the opposite with them …there are a lot of pros and cons on every side, and I try to highlight that ... I think it just shows how complicated the issue is,” he said.
No matter which option the RDEK eventually settles on, “I think it is really important there is public engagement,” added Gray.
Radium councillor Dale Shudra will fill in for Gray (who will be away) during the RDEK’s April board meeting, and Gray directed the other Radium councillors and Radium residents with concerns or opinions on the time zone change to talk with Shudra before the April meeting.
Invermere councillors too heard “a lot of feedback,” explained mayor Al Miller after council’s March 24 meeting.
Part of the reason some RDEK directors forged ahead and voted on the time zone change without formal public feedback is because such consultation could cost between $20,000 and $25,000, added Miller. Like Gray, Miller is also on the RDEK board of directors.
Other Invermere councillors were equivocal on the matter.
Continued on page 9
Copper City Dental is pleased to announce that we will be moved to our new office, conveniently located beside our old office, at 510 14th St. Invermere B.C. The move will take place over the Easter long weekend, and we will be fully moved in on April 7th, 2026.
Stop what you’re doing and ask yourself this important question: Is my house and property easily prone to catching fire? Are there flammable materials nearby? In other words, is my biggest investment FireSmart?
Too many homeowners are lax and complacent when it comes to fireproofing their properties. They let pine needles build up, gutters to clog, branches to overhang, propane tanks to lean against the house, and lovely trees to stand guard just outside the window —all the makings of a tragedy waiting to happen.
But it never used to be that way. Our homes painted a grand picture of security, beauty, resilience, and apple pie. The more trees the better.
However, that mindset led to a ‘legacy problem’ where subdivisions were built next to forests (the interface), ramping up the fire hazard amidst a climate run amok. The earth is burning up, summers are getting hotter, and devastating wildfires are more frequent than ever. When icebergs are melting, something is very wrong with the planet.
More people have to start changing with the times by adopting FireSmart principles. These not only protect your own ‘ass’-sets, but your neighbours’ too. It only takes a morning or an afternoon to make a significant difference by removing fire hazards from your home. You don’t want to make it easy for a nearby wildfire to consume everything you’ve worked so hard to achieve.
Become a FireSmart neighbourhood through a coordinated effort with the Jones and the Applebys next door. A free home assessment is only a phone call away. You can even get $1,000 in FireSmart funding for residential wildfire mitigation.
In the meantime, governments need to think of new home building regulations to protect property owners from the loss and tragedy that wildfires cause every summer. This may entail removing liability trees in some areas and planting new, fire-resistant trees elsewhere.
Humankind continues to defy and challenge Mother Nature, which never loses a fight; she just gets mad and unleashes a power that we will never control, let alone comprehend.
But if climate can change, we can too.
Lyonel Doherty, editor
Communities across the Columbia Basin are taking concrete steps to reduce wildfire risk and strengthen local resilience thanks to more than $3 million in support provided through a partnership between the Province of British Columbia and Columbia Basin Trust.
Guided by FireSmart principles, 23 organizations are putting practical measures in place, from managing wildfire fuels to educating residents to help keep people, homes and community spaces safer.
Projects like these help communities stay healthy, act proactively and adapt to the realities of a changing climate. This includes managing fuels, planning how to respond if a wildfire hits, or helping residents understand what they can do to reduce risk around their own properties.
The program is tailored specifically to the Columbia Basin and is one component of the province of BC’s Community Resiliency Investment Program. The Ministry of Forests, BC Wildfire Service and Columbia Basin Trust are partners in delivering this support.
Funding helps communities take a range of
actions, such as hiring FireSmart coordinators, preparing fuel-treatment plans, carrying out on-the-ground fuel management and providing FireSmart training. Below is an example of a project underway:
The District of Invermere is planning ahead by developing fuel-management prescriptions for 56 hectares of hillside terrain that borders neighbourhoods, access routes and local recreation areas. It will also reduce wildfire fuel on about 17 hectares within the town limits. These steps help the community move quickly when treatment opportunities arise.
“By completing prescription development, archaeological assessments and invasive species surveys ahead of time, the District of Invermere can move directly into treatment when opportunities arise,” said Cass Dearlove, FireSmart coordinator. “Alongside treating 17 hectares, the goal is to reduce wildfire risk in high-priority interface zones, improve public and responder safety, and protect community values.”
Columbia Basin Trust
Submitted by Justin Sain
Rumours swirled that Chuck Norris died on March 20 at the age of 86, but seriously, death doesn't take Chuck Norris; he stares it down until it backs off. And if he did step into the great unknown, you can bet it wasn't quietly — it was with a roundhouse kick that shook the universe.
Somewhere right now, death is probably looking over its shoulder, wondering if it's still running the show. Because legends like Chuck don't fade away — they level up.
You've probably seen him somewhere in his five decades of laying down justice in Walker, Texas Ranger, throwing fists in Delta Force, facing off with Bruce Lee in Way of the Dragon, or carrying entire action films like Missing in Action, Lone Wolf McQuade, and Code of Silence on his shoulders. Back then, if explosions outnumbered lines of dialogue, there was a good chance Chuck was in it — calm, steady, and letting his fists do the talking.
Chuck wasn't born a legend—he built it, earned it, and fought for it, long before anyone ever turned his name into a myth.
Born Carlos Ray Norris in 1940 in a small town, Oklahoma, he was a quiet kid who got bullied. He joined the Air Force, discovered martial arts in Korea, and came back with something most people never develop — discipline. He trained. He lost. He got back up. He didn't stop—and that's where the truth sits, not in the memes, but in the grind it took to become a legend.
Of course, the memes (more like Chuck facts) are legendary too. For example, Chuck Norris can slam a revolving door. When Chuck went off to college, he told his father, you are the man of the house now. Chuck can unscramble eggs. And, Chuck Norris counted to infinity — twice. Maybe ridiculous, but also perfect. Because those one-liners didn't fall out of the sky—they came from a guy who stared the rules down, worked harder than them, and eventually made them tap out.
Chuck once said, "A lot of people give up just before they're about to make it."
That's not a movie line — that's real life. People don't fall short because they can't do it. They fall short because they hesitate, stall out, and convince themselves it's not worth
the fight, and walk away right before things start to turn.
Chuck also said, "Nobody is coming to save you. There's no shortcut, no magic moment where everything suddenly gets easy. If you want something — really want it — you've got to go get it. Train for it. Work for it. Show up when you don't feel like it — especially when you don't feel like it."
So, roundhouse your excuses— don't negotiate with them, don't entertain them, just shut them down and move forward.
Even later in life, Chuck lived with that mindset. At 84, he posted a video boxing and stated he felt like he was 48. He talked about listening to his body, staying disciplined, and refusing to slow down. He said progress isn't about perfection — it's about having the courage to keep going. That's it, and that's the secret most people are looking for.
Maybe he was out here in the valley on a quiet ridge, taking it all in—exactly the kind of place a legend like Chuck would choose to stand.
So, maybe Chuck is gone. Or maybe he just moved on to a place that needed a little more order, or maybe death hasn't worked up the courage to tell him yet. Either way, the lesson sticks: Stay sharp. Stay disciplined. Stand your ground and learn to laugh when things get difficult.
When life steps up to challenge you, don't flinch and don't fold— meet it head-on and finish it. Obstacles don't stop Chuck Norris … they get out of the way.
Be the person that your doubts are afraid of.
(Justin Sain is a Columbia Valley resident and former Hollywood stuntman.)
On January 19, 2026, he shared a serene Instagram photo from a snowy landscape, captioning it: "I love it out here in the snow. You can't beat views like these. Life is a gift, so cherish today and never take a single breath for granted. Here's to a great 2026! God bless."
Continued from page 5
“I was honestly expecting there to be consultation ... people want to be heard,” said councillor Theresa Wood. When other councillors proffered opinions that no matter what kind of survey or public engagement happens, about 50 per cent of residents will be upset with the RDEK’s final decision, Wood remained steadfast, saying “at least they were heard.”
“We should wait and see what Alberta does,” said Invermere councillor Grant Kelly. “If we do something first, then Alberta does something, we might find ourselves changing our minds and re-doing this all over.”
Several councillors asked what Golden is doing. The Town of Golden is geographically aligned with the RDEK (it’s 1.5 hour’s drive north of and only marginally west of Invermere), but lies just outside the RDEK’s political boundary. Golden also currently switches between MST and MDT.
District of Invermere staff replied that — from what they understand — Golden officials are watching what the RDEK does very closely, and are considering holding a referendum in Golden on which time zone to follow, in conjunction with this fall’s municipal election.
“I’m genuinely surprised at how emotional people are about it,” said Invermere councillor Gerry Taft.
But Invermere chief administrative officer Dean McKinley wasn’t shocked. If residents feel they have fewer daylight hours after work or school, “you’re messing
with people’s perceptions of their leisure time,” noted McKinley.
Taft also noted some in Invermere’s business community will want to stay aligned with Alberta, time zone wise, since Albertan visitors and second homeowners are a big part of the Columbia Valley’s tourism economy.
He re-iterated his partly jokingyet-perhaps partly serious suggestion, already made twice, that Invermere create its own time zone, a half hour earlier than the rest of British Columbia, but a half hour behind Alberta.
This would make Invermere like Newfoundland, which is a half hour different than the rest of Atlantic Canada.
“It’s a compromise,” said Taft, adding the move would be sure to bring attention to Invermere.
Other councillors concurred it would get noticed, but weren’t entirely sure if that was a good thing or not.
Kelly wondered how many other such situations exist around the world, suggesting there may be more than a few in small island countries.
As it turns out, there are multiple other time zone anomalies around the world, aside from Newfoundland. These include Nepal, which operates on UTC +5.45, putting it 2.15 hours behind neighbouring China to the north and 15 minutes ahead of neighbouring India to the south; India, which is 30 minutes behind Bangladesh to the east, and 30 minutes ahead of Pakistan to the west; and all of China being on a single time zone despite sprawling more than 5,000 kilometres east
to west. The single Chinese time zone means that, in the farthest west reaches of the country, time jumps a whopping 3.5 hours from one side of the China-Afghanistan border to the other. Not that it matters much — only local Wakhi residents and herders are permitted to cross the isolated, windswept, high-altitude 92-kilometre border.
But surely the most bizarre time zone anomaly is in the Pacific island nation of Kiribati, which once upon a time used to actually straddle the International date line. For many decades, the time zone in the western part of Kiribati was 23 and 24 hours — literally a full day — ahead of the two time zones in the eastern parts. (Put another way, if it was Thursday in the west of Kiribati, it was still Wednesday in the east).
In 1995 the International Date Line was shifted out in a large bulge to encompass Kiribati’s Phoenix Island, as well as the easternmost Line Islands. Thanks to the shift, all of Kiribati now functions on the same day (undoubtedly a huge logistical relief to all I-Kiribati). But the shift also created two brand
new time zones in eastern Kiribati — Phoenix Island time (PHOT), which is +13 Coordinated Universal Time (UTC) and Line Island Time (LINT), which is +14 UTC.
Astute readers may be surprised: There are supposed to be only 24 hours in a day, which means that a time zone could theoretically be at most either +12 UTC or -12 UTC. But PHOT and LINT put paid to that theory, meaning there is actually a 26-hour time zone span around the globe.
To Taft’s point about increased attention: Kiribati officially markets the island nation as the ‘Land of the First Sunrise’, and despite its tiny population and exceptionally remote location, it does draw tourists — particularly on or just before January 31 — eager to be among the first in the world to greet the new year.
Newfoundland tourism officials promote a similar ‘First in North America’ theme in relation to sunrise and the New Year, especially at the Cape Spear Lighthouse, a national historic site at the easternmost point on the continent.
Invermere councillor Gerry Taft says he is surprised at how emotional people are when it comes to time zones.
The Columbia Valley is set to come alive once again as the Radius Rhythm & Riffs Festival returns for its third annual edition in 2026. Building on steady growth and strong community support, the one-day outdoor music festival continues to establish itself as a new cornerstone cultural event in the Columbia Valley.
Hosted at Radius Retreat and co-presented by the CV Arts, the festival offers a lineup of local, original live music across two stages. Designed as a daytime experience, Radius Rhythm & Riffs creates an environment where parents can kick up their heels with a cool beverage while the kids are occupied, enjoying the amusements and great outdoors. An accessible and welcoming environment for community lovers, music lovers, and visitors alike.
Festival organizers Loren Bratt & Patrick Carrick, who serve as Creative Producers and Coordinators, have focused on refining both the artistic and operational elements of the event. Their goal is clear: elevate the festival into a professionally recognized regional music experience while maintaining its grassroots, community-driven spirit.
At its core, Radius Rhythm & Riffs is about showcasing local talent. The festival
prioritizes original music from artists across the Kootenays and surrounding regions, offering performers a meaningful platform to connect with new audiences. At the same time, attendees are invited into an intimate setting that emphasizes connection, creativity, and shared experience.
What sets the event apart is its balance of quality and atmosphere. While production standards continue to improve year over year, the festival remains grounded in its core
values: community-first decision making, local artist elevation and inspiration, and a family-friendly environment.
Beyond the music, the festival experience extends to a full-day outing. Attendees can expect local food offerings, a vibrant social atmosphere, and a dedicated family-friendly component that ensures accessibility for all ages. The natural setting of Radius Retreat adds to the appeal, creating a scenic backdrop that enhances the overall experience.
The festival also continues to strengthen its partnerships, notably with the Columbia Valley Arts Council, the Columbia Valley Chamber of Commerce, Travel Columbia Valley and many local businesses (big and small) supporting both community engagement and long-term sustainability. These collaborations play a key role in expanding the festival’s reach while keeping it rooted in local culture.
As anticipation builds for the 2026 edition, Radius Rhythm & Riffs stands as a compelling example of what can happen when thoughtful planning meets creative vision. With its blend of music, community, and setting, the festival is quickly becoming a must-attend event in the Columbia Valley’s cultural calendar… Tickets and info can be found at : www.radiusretreat.com
Submitted by Tracy Connery
There’s a moment—just south of Lake Windermere—when everything changes.
The traffic fades. The noise softens. Vast, crystal clear waters appear before you.
And suddenly, you remember what lake life is supposed to feel like.
Welcome to Columbia Lake.
For years, Lake Windermere has drawn the crowds—and for good reason. Just minutes down the road, however, lies a different kind of experience. One that feels more like a discovery than a destination.
Columbia Lake is quieter. Warmer. Larger. Uncrowded.
Here, mornings begin with glassy water and uninterrupted views (protected conservation land across the lake at the base of the Rockies— forever free of development). Days unfold at your pace. Even at the height of summer, there’s space to breathe.
Life on Columbia Lake isn’t about rushing from one activity to the next.
It’s about choosing how you want to spend your time—and having the space to enjoy it fully.
When you do feel like exploring, Fairmont Hot Springs and the Columbia Valley deliver: golf, hiking, biking, hot springs, skiing, and vibrant local markets and restaurants—all within easy reach.
This is lake life, refined.
Tucked along the scenic western shoreline of Columbia Lake, Springwater Hill offers something increasingly rare: a true sense of escape—without sacrificing connection.
This thoughtfully planned lakeside community blends mountain modern architecture with the natural beauty that surrounds it. Expansive, unobstructed lake views. Private lake access with a grassy beach, boat launch, and storage for all your water toys.
Launch the boat without the chaos. Swim in crystal-clear water. Paddle along kilometres of pristine shoreline. Watch bald eagles and osprey circle overhead as herons move quietly through the shallows. Or do nothing at all.
It’s a place where quiet luxury meets authentic mountain life.
At the heart of Springwater Hill is a home that captures everything this lifestyle represents.
Set on a generous, nearly half-acre lot, this ample residence is more than a show home—it’s a refined mountain sanctuary. Clean, modern lines are perfectly balanced with the surrounding landscape.
Inside, expansive windows and custom skylights flood the home with natural light, framing the breathtaking lake views from nearly every angle. Spacious bedrooms, a den, a recreation room, and a triple-car garage with oversized boat parking balance elegance with everyday practicality. Outside, a
unique, built-in hammock tucked into the deck invites you to unwind and let the lake set the pace.
This is a home designed for gathering, for retreating, for living fully in every season.
Imagine nights beneath star-filled skies untouched by city light and waking to sunrise over Columbia Lake—without ever leaving your bed.
See the Show Home for Yourself
There are some places you can only truly understand by being there.
This Easter Weekend, step into the experience of Columbia Lake living and tour this exceptional mountain modern home in person.
Or do you want to create your own custom mountain modern retreat?
A few lakeview lots are still waiting for you to build your dream!
Bring family and friends. Walk the property. Take in the views. Feel the quiet. And discover what life can be— just a little further south.
Be here on Columbia Lake.
Your escape is closer than you think.
Thursday April 2
10:00-11:00am - Seniors Fitness Columbia Valley Centre. Doors open 9:30 for warm-ups and indoor walking $2 drop-in. Please note: classes may be moved to Invermere Seniors Hall when the Columbia Valley Centre is booked for larger events.
1:30pm - Floor Curling at the Invermere Seniors Hall.
6:45pm - Texas Hold'em Poker Invermere Legion, $30 buy-in.
Friday April 3
1:00pm - Duplicate Bridge at the Invermere Seniors Hall.
3:00-7:00pm - Easter Market - 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. Join us Easter weekend on Friday, April 3 from 3pm to 7pm and Saturday, April 4 from 10am to 4pm.
Handmade goods, home décor, photography, bath and beauty, artisan food and beverage, apparel, woodworking, artwork and more. Enjoy food vendors and live music. Free entry! Columbia Valley Centre, 646 4th Street in Invermere.
6:30pm - Meat Draw and 50/50 in the Legion. Members and guests welcome.
Saturday April 4
10:00am - 4:00pm - Easter Market - 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. Join us Easter weekend on Friday, April 3 from 3pm to 7pm and Saturday, April 4 from 10am to 4pm.
Handmade goods, home décor, photography, bath and beauty, artisan food and beverage, apparel, woodworking, artwork and more. Enjoy food vendors and live music. Free entry! Columbia Valley Centre, 646 4th Street in Invermere.
11:00am - The Eggcellent Egg Hunt is Back! Presented by the District of Invermere & RE/MAX Invermere. Hop on over to Kinsmen Beach in Invermere on Saturday, April 4th at 11:00am for an eggciting morning of fun!
Look for Chocolate eggs and sweet treats scattered all around! Search for plastic coloured eggs for bigger prizes! (only one per child, let’s keep it fair and fun for everyone! )
Four Age categories: 1–3 years, 4–6 years, 7–9 years, 10–12 years Grab your baskets, your Easter spirit and get ready to hunt!
6:30 - Meat Draw and 50/50 in the Legion. Members and guests welcome.
Sunday April 5
2:00 - Cribbage and Darts Come to the Legion and have some fun! Members and guests welcome.
Monday April 6
10:00-11:00 - Seniors Yoga Columbia Valley Centre. Doors open 9:30 for warm-up and indoor walking-$2 drop-in. Please note: classes may be moved to Invermere Seniors Hall when the Columbia Valley Centre is booked for larger events. 1:30pm - Cribbage at Invermere Seniors Hall.
Tuesday April 7
10:00-11:00 - Seniors Fitness Seniors Fitness Columbia Valley Centre. Doors open 9:30 for warm-ups and indoor walking $2 drop-in. Please note: classes may be moved to Invermere Seniors Hall when the Columbia Valley Centre is booked for larger events.
6:30-8:00 - Second Winds Community Band Practises every Tuesday at the Catholic Church in Invermere. New members are welcome. 7:00pm - Invermere Film Festival - Movie Night Featuring Wuthering Heights. Tuesday, April 7, 7:00 PM. Settle in for a cozy evening and enjoy this modernized timeless romantic drama on the big screen. Columbia Valley Centre.
Wednesday April 8
10:00-11:00am - Seniors Yoga Columbia Valley Centre. Doors open 9:30 for warm-up and indoor walking-$2 drop-in. Please note: classes may be moved to Invermere Seniors Hall when the Columbia Valley Centre is booked for larger events.
1:00pm - Duplicate Bridge at the Invermere Seniors Hall. 2:00-3:00pm - Sewcial Hour Invermere Public Library. Bring your textile projects. Come and enjoy a cup of tea and connect with other makers. All welcome to attend.
6:30pm - Meat Draw and 50/50 in the Legion. Members and guests welcome.
Columbia Valley Pioneer staff
Columbia Valley resident Darryl Stettler is still skating to success in the hockey rink. Stettler grew up in the valley, and when he was younger, his hockey talent landed on the University of Alberta-Augustana team, and also took
him to Europe where he played in the Swiss First Division.
He now runs several businesses here in the Columbia Valley, including a fitness gym in Athalmer, but has kept playing hockey as well.
This year Stettler played with Cremona Coyotes seniors men’s AA team in Albert’s Ranch
Land Hockey League and helped the team to first place in the league, and then through the playoffs to win the Ranch Land championship. In the regular season the Coyotes won 16 games and lost only once.
During the playoffs, they only lost once.
By Steve Hubrecht steve@columbiavalleypioneer.com
The Friends of the Invermere Public Library plan to build a new book donation centre and need a place to put it.
The nonprofit group raises funds to support Invermere’s library, and has raised nearly $300,000 during the past two decades. Most local residents are familiar with the group as the organizers of the can’t-miss Big Book Sale event each summer, which along with other books sales, brings in about $25,000 a year for the library.
To run the sale, the Friends rely on book donations from locals and visitors. And if you’ve been to the
Big Book Sale, you know that there are a truly staggering number of books on offer. The group has been using the workshop garage across 4th Street from the library as its book donation centre for the past several years, but the building is owned by the ?akisq’nuk First Nation, which plans to use the building to store equipment for its new Guardians Program.
Friends of the Invermere Public Library president Donna Smith was at the Tuesday, March 10 Invermere council meeting, explaining that the group has searched extensively for a new donated space or space to rent, to no avail. The Friends realized building their own workshop-like space to function as a
book donation centre is the best solution, she added, asking if the District of Invermere would consider donating land on which to build.
“Any help would be appreciated,” Smith told councillors.
She explained the book donation centre would need to be about 500 square feet, would need to be accessible by car, and would ideally be near the library.
The new book donation centre would probably cost about $27,000 to build, outlined Smith. “It would be a garage type building...We don’t need much. Space for a desk, space to stack boxes (of books), some shelves to sort books.”
March 30, 2026
Councillors asked if the Friends have a particular piece of land in mind, and Smith suggested a spot across 3rd Street, near the Columbia Valley Food Bank.
Please be advised that the Village of Radium Hot Springs has received an application for a Temporary Use Permit for the purpose of placing a tent structure at 4982 Highway 93, plan of which is attached to this notice.
Legal description: Lot A, Plan NEP2595, District Lot 10113
Zoning: C3 – Highway Mixed Use
Variance requested: Permit the temporary use of a tent structure
Please be advised that the Village of Radium Hot Springs has received an application for a Temporary Use Permit for the purpose of placing a tent structure at 4982 Highway 93, plan of which is attached to this notice.
Legal description: Lot A, Plan NEP2595, District Lot 10113
Invermere mayor Al Miller replied that particular piece of land was purchased by the district for additional parking for the community centre, which could become necessary if Invermere’s population continues to grow rapidly. But he said he’s open to revisiting that intended use, to see if a book donation centre can be squeeze in as well.
Council will be considering this application at their next regularly scheduled Council meeting to be held April 13th, 2026 at 5:00pm at 4836 Radium Blvd. This meeting will also be livestreamed on Zoom.
Zoning: C3 – Highway Mixed Use
Variance requested: Permit the temporary use of a tent structure
All persons who believe that their interest in property is affected by the proposed variance ask questions of staff or submit written comments, prior to 10:00am, April 9 th, 2026, to the Village of Radium Hot Springs by:
Council will be considering this application at their next regularly scheduled Council meeting to be held April 13th, 2026 at 5:00pm at 4836 Radium Blvd. This meeting will also be livestreamed on Zoom.
Mail: Box 340, Radium Hot Springs, BC, V0A 1M0
Email: planning@radiumhotsprings.ca
Fax: 250-347-9068
All persons who believe that their interest in property is affected by the proposed variance ask questions of staff or submit written comments, prior to 10:00am, April 9th, 2026, to the Village of Radium Hot Springs by:
Mail: Box 340, Radium Hot Springs, BC, V0A 1M0
Email: planning@radiumhotsprings.ca
Submissions will not be accepted after Council has considered the issue on April 13 th, 2026
Fax: 250-347-9068
Submissions will not be accepted after Council has considered the issue on April 13th, 2026
LOCATION OF SUBJECT PROPERTY
Location of Subject Property:
• FAX 250.347.9068 • www.radiumhotsprings.ca
4836 Radium Blvd, Radium Hot Springs, B.C., ph: 250-347-6455 fax: 250-347-9068
Invermere councillor Gerry Taft suggested putting the book donation centre on the hilled slope on the southeast side of the Columbia Valley Centre.
“I think there’s some space there,” said Taft, adding re-grading of the slope would be necessary.
Taft also suggested giving the Friends of the Invermere Public Library permission to rent or lease the land on which to build the new book donation centre would be much easier legally and logistically than the Friends taking outright ownership of the land.
Miller agreed, pointing out that a long-term rent or lease at a nominal rate ($1 a year, for instance) is what the district has successfully arranged with other nonprofits using municipal land, such as the Food Bank.
Councillor Grant Kelly agreed both with Miller and with Taft that either the space across 3rd Street near the Food Bank or the hilled slope by the Columbia Valley Centre could make a good home for the book donation centre.
“There’s enough available land around there. We can be creative,” said Kelly.
By Steve Hubrecht steve@columbiavalleypioneer.com
Invermere has grown leaps and bounds in recent years.
The last census was in 2021 and outlined that Invermere’s population soared 15.5 per cent between 2016 and 2021. Another census is set to take place this year, and although no one can say for certain exactly what it will reveal, most Invermere residents expect it to show plenty more growth here.
Anecdotal evidence abounds for a still burgeoning local population during the past five years: a lot of new homes built, student populations swelling in schools, new businesses opening and existing ones expanding, and the local housing crunch becoming more acute all the time (despite the new builds).
Such growth brings both benefits and barriers.
Among the challenges is that Invermere’s population has gotten so much bigger so quickly that it sometimes seems to outstrip some parts of the small mountain community’s infrastructure.
One of these spots is at 15th Avenue, and a local resident recently raised concern to Invermere council
about the crowded conditions along the road as it passes near Eileen Madson Primary School (EMP).
The avenue heads south from Mount Nelson Athletic Park (MNAP) and J.A. Laird Elementary School, snakes past David Thompson Secondary School (DTSS), then on to EMP, the new school-district run Rocky Mountain Childcare Centre, the new Pinetree Valley housing development, and the Westside Park neighbourhood.
Many local residents jokingly refer to the southern end of 15th Avenue and being ‘one and a half’ lanes wide. In fact, it’s two lanes, one in each direction, but the road is noticeably narrower there than many other streets in Invermere, meaning drivers need to slow down and take more care than they might otherwise. Cyclists and pedestrians need to be a bit more vigilant too.
A few years ago this hardly seemed to matter since the far southern end of 15th Avenue was surrounded by open, grassy land on both sides, and once you got past the school zones, traffic was pretty light.
But now there’s the Pinetree Valley development on the west side of the avenue, and the new daycare and another new develop-
ment taking shape on the east. Not surprisingly many more people are driving, biking or walking along 15th Avenue these days.
The more northern end of 15th Avenue — along DTSS and between the high school and EMP — has always been busy, but with more people in town, more students in schools, and more cars on the road, it too seems more congested than it once was.
Invermere resident Lindsey Sherlock frequently navigates this area and, in a letter to Invermere council, wrote that on a daily basis she sees a dangerous mix of vehicles, both moving and parked; bike and foot commuters, who often have no choice but to share narrow lanes with cars; and parents with strollers and young children walking to EMP, frequently struggling with narrow or non-existent sidewalk space.
“The lack of separated, expanded pathways creates ‘near-miss’ situations, particularly along 15th Avenue between Groundswell and EMP,” wrote Sherlock, adding that “with the recent day care and new housing developments in the vicinity, the strain on 15th Avenue will only intensify.”
Sherlock urged councillors to
consider widening 15th Avenue to better accommodate two-way traffic and dedicated sidewalks and bike lanes.
She noted there are currently no walking paths south of EMP at all, and also suggested expanding and separating sidewalks into multi-use paths to ensure safety of kids, parents with strollers and other potentially vulnerable pedestrians.
“Safe infrastructure is a necessity of our community, and I hope to see these improvements reflected in the upcoming Transportation Master Plan actions,” wrote Sherlock.
Invermere councillors discussed Sherlock’s letter during their March 24 meeting, and they agreed with most of her concerns.
“I do think it is worth looking at that whole area as it gets busier,” said councillor Grant Kelly.
“By the daycare, and by Pinetree Valley — that will just get busier and busier, especially when (the other new development) comes on there,” added Invermere mayor Al Miller.
Councillors directed district staff to examine that area of town and make note of gaps in the active transportation routes there.
This wildfire risk reduction project involves a prescribed burn led by the BC Wildfire Service and supported by Invermere Fire Rescue and the Ministry of Forests. The planned ignition will treat 24.1 hectares of land within an allowable burn area of 49.3 hectares, as part of a broader, strategic wildfire management approach.
WHERE
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The prescribed fire will take place on District Lot 4616, located on the east side of the CastleRock subdivision. See map for reference.
The prescribed fire will take p The prescribed fire will take p located on the east sid located on the east sid subdivision subdivision. See map on rev map on rev located subdivision See map on rev
Residents and travelers can expect to see smoke and flames in the area during operations. Smoke may remain visible for several days after the burn concludes. If smoke is expected to settle overnight and impact visibility, electronic signboards may be used to provide advance warning. If “blacklining” (preparatory ignitions) is initiated, it will be communicated as the official start of the burn.
WHEN WILL IT OCCUR?
Residents and travelers ca and flames in the area du area may remain visible for seve remain concludes If smoke is expe concludes. If smoke is and impact visibility, elec impact visibility, be used to provide adva be used provide adva lining" (preparatory ignition lining" communicated as the offic as seve to provide lining" ignition communicated as the offic
The burn is tentatively scheduled between late March to mid April, 2026 depending on favourable weather and site conditions to ensure both safety and effectiveness. Once initiated, the burn is expected to occur over a 48-hour period, followed by 3 to 5 days of mop-up and site monitoring. If conditions are not suitable this spring, the project may be continued at a later fall or spring date.
Prescribed burning is an important tool to support forest health and wildfire risk reduction.. It helps safely reduce the buildup of hazardous fuels, enhance ecosystem resilience, and restore natural fire cycles. Ultimately, these efforts aim to protect surrounding communities from the impacts of severe wildfires.
To learn more about prescribed fire please visit Prescribed Fire & Cultural BC’s website at www.prescribedfire.ca
conditions. is the site
Designated Smoke-Free Space
This operate cooling centre
To support residents sens To support residents sens smoke-free refuge will be refuge be smoky conditions. The Inv smoky The Centre is being considered the exact site will be confi This space may operate space operate similar to a cooling centre similar to a cooling centre environment environment.
To support residents sensitive to smoke, a public smoke-free refuge will be made available during smoky conditions. The Invermere Columbia Valley Centre is being considered as the host location, but the exact site will be confirmed closer to the event. This space may operate with extended hours, similar to a cooling centre, to provide a safe indoor environment.
Impacts of Smoke Exposure
Dedicated crews from Invermere Fire Rescue and the BC Wildfire Service will be actively managing the operation to ensure public safety at all times.
Tips
Stay indoors and keep windows and doors closed.
Smoke can irritate the eyes and respiratory system system. It may worsen pre-existing heart or lung conditions. t pre-existing conditions.
Smoke can irritate the eyes and respiratory system.
• It may worsen pre-existing heart or lung conditions.
Use a portable air cleaner (commercial or well- built DIY).
sy p o s o se if symptoms worsen sy
Limit prolonged or strenuous outdoor activity. Manage existing medical conditions and seek care if symptoms worsen.
For more information on healthcare, please refer to public health guidance or consult your heal h id
For more information on healthcare, please refer to public health guidance or consult your healthcare provider.
FOR MORE INFORMATION PLEASE
FOR MORE INFORMATION PLEASE CONTACT:
Fire Information Officer Fire Information Officer
Jason Roe
Jason Roe Jason Roe Fire Chief
Fire Chief
Invermere Fire Rescue
Invermere Fire Rescue 250-342-3200 250-342-3200 jroe@invermere net net Chief
250-342-3200 jroe@invermere.net
Fire Information Officer
Southeast Fire Centre Southeast Fire
Cass Dearlove FSC & WMS
Southeast Fire Centre
BC Wildfire Service
BC Wildfire Service BC 250-318-7715
250-318-7715
BCWS SEFCInformationOfficer@gov bc ca SEFCInformationOfficer@gov
BCWS.SEFCInformationOfficer@gov.bc.ca
Cass Dearlove FSC & WMS
Invermere Fire Rescue
250-342-3200
firesmart@invermere.net
Invermere Fire Rescue 250-342-3200 250-342-3200 firesmart@invermere ne firesmart@invermere
and performances to get people in a 'colourful' mood.
By Steve Hubrecht steve@columbiavalleypioneer.com
When Invermere resident Ian ‘Scotty’ Morrison passed away last month, tributes and comments came in from all over the country and beyond, including from major sports and news media outlets such as TSN, Sportsnet and the Globe and Mail.
Morrison was very well known in the world of hockey, as a referee and an executive. He is in the Hockey Hall of Fame, and leaves a legacy — both sporting and personal — of a life well lived. Those who knew him through hockey recall him as a dedicated, respected figure. Those who knew him personally remember him as a true family man who genuinely cared about everyone he met.
The nickname ‘Scotty’ (by which he was universally called) came because Morrison’s parents were originally from Scotland. He was born in Montreal in 1930, not long after they arrived in Canada.
Morrison loved sports. His parents encouraged him to study as a kid, but he often had copies of Baseball Digest and hockey magazines hidden under his homework to read instead. He was a decent hockey player, but while playing a junior game he was assigned to cover future Montreal Canadiens legend
Jean Béliveau.
“Béliveau got something like four goals and two assists that night, and so dad thought maybe he should look into becoming an official instead of a player,” Morrison’s daughter Joanne Gray told the Pioneer
So he became a referee. He met his wife Joanie while officiating in the junior Western Hockey League (WHL), and became the youngest referee in National Hockey League (NHL) history when he was just 24. At 35, he was the NHL’s head referee.
Morrison later moved in executive roles, serving as chair and chief executive officer of the Hockey Hall of Fame, spearheading its early 1990s move to a new location on Yonge and Front Street in downtown Toronto. In 1999, a year after retiring, Morrison was inducted in the Hockey Hall of Hame at the same time as Wayne Gretzky.
Morrison and his wife raised a big family — eight kids, 26 grandkids, and four great-grandkids — and, despite Morrison’s career success — family was the most important thing in his life.
Indeed it was, in part, to be closer to his family (Gray, her husband and kids in Panorama; and daughter Carolyn, her husband and kids in Calgary) that Morrison moved to the Columbia Valley eight years ago from Haliburton, Ontario.
Morrison made friends everywhere he lived, including plenty here in Invermere.
“He was true to form and very social right until the end,” Gray told the Pioneer. “He was as stubborn as the day is long, and that’s probably why he lived to 95. He was never afraid to speak his mind, and he was always willing to lend his voice for those who needed someone to speak for them.”
Gray added: “He expected a lot from people, and he got a lot from people. He gave you that little extra push, that extra support, and encouraged you to really reach for your potential.”
It was exactly that kind of nudge from dad that helped Gray knuckle down and focus on being part of Hockey Canada during the 1998 Nagano Olympics, the first Games ever to feature women’s hockey.
When summers rolled around, the Morrisons — all 10 of them — would leave Toronto and head to their beloved cottage in Haliburton.
“Other kids went to summer camp, but we just went to the cottage. That was our camp, and we loved it ... dad always made it clear that family was number one, and
he made time for us, no matter how busy he was. We had so much fun ... and it didn’t matter what we did on Saturday night, we always drove in (to Haliburton) for mass the next morning,” remembered Gray, with a laugh.
That family focus was also evident in Invermere, where Gray’s six kids would visit their grandfather at Columbia Garden Village almost every day after school without fail, despite their own full schedules.
As you might expect from a career referee and executive, Morrison took pride in being organized.
In Columbia Garden Village
“he had a two-bedroom suite. One room was his office, with a desk that he loved. The files were perfectly arranged, and there were letter-openers and highlighters all set to go, iPad, bookcase … he was very executive,” described Gray.
When Morrison had to move into a smaller room, the desk came too, even though it barely fit.
“Scotty was really a very special human,” said Invermere physiotherapist Mel Irwin, who worked with Morrison for years. “He had a unique ability to connect with anybody.” Continued on page 19
Continued from page 18
Irwin designed all sorts of exercise regiments to keep Morrison as active and fit as possible “and no matter how crazy the ideas I came up with were, he was game for it. His work ethic was so strong,” she added.
Morrison had photos up of every single member of his family, and “he would always, always tell you stories about each of them; what they each were up to and how they were doing ... he was so proud of his family,” said Irwin.
Olympic alpine ski racer Cassidy Gray is Morrison’s granddaughter and explained how his family pride was impossible to miss.
“I think he was my biggest fan ever. He used to wear a shirt (in Columbia Garden Village) that said ‘Team Cassidy Gray’ and he clipped out every newspaper story about me and put it up,”
she told the Pioneer.
“To know my grandpa was to love him. He had such a big heart and was such a funny guy.”
“He was very kind, but very rule-oriented and very matter of fact. As you would expect from a good referee,” said Morrison’s doctor (and family friend) Bill Brown. “He cared deeply for his family, and for anyone, really. He was a great storyteller. He always had these amazing stories, both from his family and from hockey. He’d tell them to me, and he always started them with ‘Bill, you’re really going to laugh at this one’.”
Former NHL head coach and former Hockey Canada president Tom Renney first got to know Morrison at the 1994 Lillehammer Olympics.
The two became friends as their paths kept crossing in the hockey world through the 1990s, and continued that friendship to the Columbia Valley once Morrison moved here (Renney lives
in the valley part time).
When it came to hockey officiating and his executive roles, Morrison “really knew his stuff. He was very well respected. He was a gentleman, and humble, no question about that. But he always had command of the room, and was firm and decisive ... he had a presence,” Renney told the Pioneer
As a friend, Morrison was “a great guy. A gift to have in your life. He was very social, and very genuine,” added Renney.
When Morrison and Renney would meet up, Morrison “always asked first about Glenda (Tom’s wife) and the girls ... he loved his family, and he always checked in on yours.” Renney counts Morrison among those who’ve strongly influenced his life, and said “I take a little bit of Scotty with me everywhere I go ... he was top rung.”
Invermere resident and Hockey Hall of Famer Ian ‘Scotty’ Morrison dedicated his life to family, friends and the game of hockey.
PHOTOS SUBMITTED
TAFT
Al-Anon. Are you concerned about or affected by someone else’s drinking? For more information or to speak with someone from our fellowship, please call 250-878-2448 or 250-342-8392
Cheers to Frances and Carol for all their help making John’s birthday party a success.
Alcoholics Anonymous. If alcohol is causing problems or conflict in your life, AA can help. All meetings are at 7 pm. Columbia United AA, Invermere: Saturday, Sunday, Tuesday and Wednesday at the BC Service Building, South End624 4th St. Invermere. Please call 250-342-2424 for more information or to speak with someone from our fellowship.
Cheers to all our guests at our community dinner on March 22nd. We appreciate the thoughtful cards to commemorate our first year! It was a pleasure to have our supporters from Family Dynamix in house to share a meal with us. With much gratitude, Heart of the Valley Kitchen.
Cheers to the Invermere Seniors Centre for the very reasonable rental of the hall for a special 90th birthday party. What an excellent facility.
Established Cleaning Business for Sale – Turnkey Opportunity
Profitable and well-established cleaning business in Golden BC, with a loyal client base and strong reputation. Generating consistent revenue with low overhead and reliable subcontractors in place. Ideal for an owneroperator or investor looking for immediate cash flow. Includes client list, systems, and training support for a smooth transition.
Serious inquiries only.
Contact: 647-335-9595
Email: kickinghorsecleaning@hotmail.com”
Cheers to Dixie B. at Invermere Transfer Station for showing kindness and compassion to me in a weak moment.
Cheers to French Irene. You are a kind and generous soul.
Join Our Team for the 2026 Season!
Fairmont Mountain Bungalows is now hiring for multiple seasonal positions.
We are looking for hardworking, reliable individuals to join us in the following roles:
• Housekeeping
• Front Office / Laundry
• Grounds & Maintenance
Starting Wage: $22/hour
Ready to work in a beautiful mountain setting?
Call Jess at 250-345-6365 for more details or to schedule a time to drop off your resume.
Cheers to Hannah at Huckleberry’s Restaurant for the great service and always having a smile on your face.
There are not enough CHEERS for my daughter Catherine D. who is taking care of each and everyone. You have a heart of gold!
Cheers to Penny, Mark and their helpers for the delicious meal.
Cheers to Ashley at Red Apple. It’s nice to go into the store and be greeted with a smile.
Cheers to Steve and Audrey at The Local View for the quick turnaround time doing my print jobs.
K. B. Creations
Handyman services, Renovations, Masonry, Plumbing, Drywall & Painting. Please call Kevin 250-688-2897
LOST- A gold ring with sapphire stones. Sentimental value. $100 reward offered if returned. Please call 250-342-6178 and leave a message.
April 3rd and 4th, 5011 Fairway Drive, Fairmont Hot Springs. Many household & decorative items, canoe, kayak, life jackets, ladders, much original art, tools, skates, snowshoes, games. 9:00am - 4:00pm.
By J.D. Jeffery
Learn more about what’s happening at the museum by visiting www.windermerevalleymuseum.ca.
Modern children go to school in large buildings with many rooms with controlled features that are used to enhance student learning.
Progress has come a long way since the 1900s. As people came to the valley they created their homes, families cropped up and communities grew. Before places got big enough to be a community, families who gathered in the same area generally created a school to educate their children.
The first school in Brisco was built in 1906 to allow students in the area to attend classes. To have children go to school back then, regulations required there be at least six registered students. Classes could be held in any building, but if a school house was built, the land it stood on
was always donated for the purpose of having a school.
In 1920, a second school was built, and the original school was used for storage on the Mitchell farm.
In September 1979, Mr. Watkins consented to donate the Brisco school but it was still in use. Then in 1980, the Mitchell family donated the school to the museum, and it opened to the public with displays in 1981.
A provincial heritage grant allowed restoration of the school so it could represent the original pioneer classroom. For accuracy of the display, a few of the early students who originally attended the school were consulted. There was a single wood stove in the centre of the room for heat and student desks on either side for students to learn their lessons. There was a chalk board at the front of the room with the teacher's desk. Students from all grades would attend this one-room school and the teacher had to be knowledgeable in all grades up to grade 8.
A standard school day started with the teacher arriving early and starting the fire to warm the room; the rest of the day the students would keep the fire going. Classes would get their assignments, and the teacher would work with the classes using the books and chalk board at her disposal. Quiet was expected among the students so the teacher could give the lessons without disruption.
By Brent Woodard Windermere Valley Shared Ministry
Stephen Miller, one of the chief architects of immigration policy in the Trump administration, said in January that “the real world is governed by strength, force, and power.” He described these as the “iron laws of the world,” rather than, as he said, “niceties.” Miller is a prominent leader in the MAGA movement that claims to represent Christian America. I’d like to raise the question: How do MAGA Christians square the idea of the real world being governed by strength, force and power with their devotion to Jesus, who was crucified on a cross? In the Roman world, the cross was a sign of the empire’s strength, force and power over people. A person dying on a cross was a billboard saying “this is what will happen to you if you challenge our authority.”
way: “God chose the weak things of the world to shame the strong. God chose the lowly things of this world and the despised things—and the things that are not—to nullify the things that are.”
The crucifixion of Jesus introduced a new moral order to the universe. Might isn’t right. The world doesn’t belong to the elites. The lowly are valuable. The weak have a strength. The despised in the eyes of humans are not despised in the eyes of God.
LAKE WINDERMERE ALLIANCE CHURCH
While you are with us, you are always welcome to join us. Sunday at 10:30 am 326 10th Avenue, Invermere 250-342-9535 | www.lwac.ca
WINDERMERE VALLEY
SHARED MINISTRY (Anglican - United) Sundays at 10:30 either in-person or online (the link is available on our website – wvsm.ca) Minister: Brent Woodard 110 - 7th Ave. in Invermere 250-342-6644
VALLEY CHRISTIAN ASSEMBLY
Pastor: Justin Furse Sunday 10 a.m. Worship Service 4814 Highway Drive, Windermere 250-342-9511 | www.vcachurch.net
Jesus, who said things like “blessed are the meek,” “love your enemies,” and “the greatest among you will be your servant” (niceties) intentionally turned the world of strength, force and power upside down. It took time, but eventually followers of Jesus saw the cross not as a sign of empire’s power, but as a sign of the way of love. They inverted the message of the cross.
The earliest Christians proclaimed that the crucified disturber was, in fact, God in flesh. That in his weakness, God’s power was made perfect. The cross, the Roman instrument of terror, became for Christians, the sign of hope and liberation.
Paul, writing to the Corinthians, put it this
In 2015 Donald Trump said of John McCain: “He’s not a war hero. He was a war hero because he was captured. I like people who weren’t captured.” He is saying only the victorious are valued, or only those who fight until they die are valued. Not those who serve, not those who suffer, not those who are “weak” enough to be captured, and even tortured in their captivity, as was John McCain. Arguably, this way of thinking would say “Jesus is not a hero. I like people who weren’t crucified.”
It’s Easter weekend. On Good Friday we remember the crucifixion of Jesus. On Sunday we remember his resurrection.
One of the understandings of the resurrection is that it was God’s affirmation of Jesus – of the way of Jesus.
Good Friday and Easter Sunday are not irrelevant to the world we live in. We are still deciding if the real world is governed by strength, force and power, or if the real world is governed by love, kindness and cooperation. We are still deciding if the world belongs to elites or to everyone. Easter asks the question: What world do we want to take part in creating?
ROMAN CATHOLIC CHURCH
St. Anthony’s, Canal Flats: Saturday, 4 pm Canadian Martyrs’, Invermere: Sat 5 pm, Sun 9 am St. Joseph’s, Radium: Sunday 11 am Father Francis Dela Cruz | 712 -12th Ave., Invermere 250-342-6167 canadianmartyrs.ca
RADIUM CHRISTIAN FELLOWSHIP
Sunday 10 a.m. Worship service Pastor Wayne and Linda Frater | 250-342-6633 #4, 7553 Main St. Radium | 250-347-9937
CHURCH OF JESUS CHRIST OF LATTER-DAY SAINTS
Worship Service, Sunday, 11 a.m. Sunday School, 10 a.m. President Kendyn Mackensie • Columbia Valley Branch • 5014 Fairway, Fairmont Hot Springs 250-439-9041
CHURCH OF CHRIST (Iglesia ni Cristo)
Worship Service: Sunday 9 a.m., Thursday 7:45 p.m. Chamber of Commerce (Lions Hall) For inquiries: 250-688-1643 250-270-2208 or 250-688-0629
For more info about the church, you can Google online at incmedia.org or pasugo.com.ph
The Hearing Loss Clinic has become an integral part of my family’s healthcare team. As an athlete and coming into the medical field myself, I can appreciate how each aspect of our health contributes to the bigger picture. Hearing health is an important part of how we interact with the world, which correlates to so many other parts of our humanity. It’s all connected. The Hearing Loss Clinic team really understands this and it shows in their passion for what they do and how they treat their patients, from the moment someone walks in the door to the final testing and fitting.
Hayley Wickenheiser, 4-time Olympic Gold Medalist Hockey Canada
