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VALLEY NEWS

Canal Flats set to adopt ATV bylaw

By Steve Hubrecht steve@columbiavalleypioneer.com

The Village of Canal Flats has been working for months on an offhighway recreational vehicle bylaw, and was poised to adopt it just as this issue of the Pioneer went to press.

The bylaw is not meant to discourage all-terrain vehicles (ATVs) in the community, but rather aims to keep them on certain main streets and avenues, instead of having them all over the village.

“We do have a fair bit of traffic, of people accessing the backcountry on ATVs through Canal Flats,” village chief administrative officer Cynthia White told the Pioneer. “So we want to provide a safe way for ATVs to travel through the community, to be able to get to things such as the gas

station, and then on into the backcountry.”

White outlined that there was some community concern, but at the same time the village appreciates that both locals and visitors want to be able to recreate.

It is essentially “a safety bylaw; we are trying to make corridors (for the ATVs),” explained White.

The bylaw received three readings during the April 13 Canal Flats council meeting and was on the agenda to be officially adopted at April 27 meeting (after the Pioneer press deadline).

Canal Flats mayor Mark Doherty and councillor Patricia Reed have met multiple times with members of the Canal Flats ATV Club to help develop the bylaw.

Aside from quads, the ATV by-

law also applies to dirt bikes, dune buggies, go-karts, mopeds, or other four-wheeled, three-wheeled or two-wheeled motorized vehicles that fall outside the purview of the Motor Vehicle Act.

The map included in the Canal Flats council documents at the April 13 meeting indicated that ATVs will be allowed on the Canal Flats frontage road paralleling Highway 93/95,

on Grainger Road (running northsouth through the village), and on Baille Grohman Avenue, Burns Avenue and Beatty Avenue (which all run east-west across the village).

The bylaw also stipulates that ATV riders must wear helmets.

The Canal Flats ATV Club will be responsible for issuing licences and permits to those wishing to ride ATVs through the village.

You’ll fall in love with our Annual Heirloom and Speciality Tomato Sale.

Home grown right here in the Columbia Valley

Map from Canal Flats council documents showing which roads ATVs will be able to drive on in the village under the new bylaw.

– Residential Installation – Maintenance – Repairs Darren Ross

Box 72, Canal Flats, B.C. V0B 1B0

Bookmobile ready to roll

By Steve Hubrecht steve@columbiavalleypioneer.com

The Invermere Public Library’s bookmobile is, quite literally, ready to roll.

The bookmobile is, as its name suggests, an old cargo van that’s been refitted as a library on wheels. It will let the library offer its books, programs and services to residents living in the valley’s outlying communities and to those with mobility challenges, or who otherwise find it difficult to visit the physical library.

Library staff and board members have been working to make the bookmobile a reality for three years, and on the afternoon of April 24, the project was finally unveiled to the public.

A few dozen curious residents came to check it out, and all were suitably impressed. And why wouldn’t they be? On the outside, the bookmobile is decorated with eye-catching designs (dreamt up by library staffer Japhy Hunt) and inside, book shelves on wheels line the walls, offering patrons the chance to peruse hundreds of book, DVDs, and more. There are popular titles, new titles, board books for kids, and even a few free paperbacks for those who don’t have a library card but really want something to read.

The idea for the bookmobile came from library director Blair McFarlane (other staff teasingly call the van 'Blair’s baby') and she is both delighted and relieved to have it set to roll at last.

“It has been a long time coming. To have it ready to serve the community is very exciting,” McFarlane told the Pioneer.

Aside from books, the bookmobile will act as a wifi hot spot, and will offer some of the library’s programs (such as storytime and book clubs), as well as simple tech support. It can even do home delivery for people who need it.

“There are a lot of bookmobiles in cities, but there is also a real need in rural areas too,” said McFarlane. “Public transportation is limited and

not everyone has a car.”

She noted there are even some people in Columbia Garden Village who don’t walk down to the library in winter because of icy sidewalks, or in the height of summer, when the four-way intersection near the library (which must be crossed) becomes chaotically busy.

The bookmobile’s first official trip will be on Thursday, April 29 when it heads to the Windermere Community Hall from 10 a.m. to 11 a.m.

Library staff are still ironing out a schedule, but for the first few weeks there are plans to make stops in Windermere, Fairmont Hot Springs, Canal Flats, Edgewater, Brisco, Spillimacheen, Panorama Mountain Resort, Wilmer, and Lakeview Manor and Columbia Garden Village. The bookmobile will also be at the ?akisq'nuk First Nation open house on May 8, at Pynelogs on May 20 for the 20th anniversary celebration of Art from the Heart, and at the Fairmont Hot Springs Picnic Palooza on May 23. There are plans to work with local First Nations to set up regular stops at both ?akisq'nuk and Shuswap Band.

Library staffer Dallas Husar will be the bookmobile driver and is keen to get behind the wheel.

“It’s going to be great,” Husar told the Pioneer. “I hope we not only get more books to people, but that the sheer nostalgia of bookmobiles might get some people who don’t normally pick up books back into reading.”

That nostalgia may indeed be a factor.

Invermere councillor Grant Kelly attended the bookmobile launch, and immediately set to reminiscing. When he grew up in a small, rural village in Quebec in the 1970s there was no public library, but there was a bookmobile.

“It was huge. I remember quite looking forward to it. The anticipation of it coming, and then going to see what sports books I could find was huge,” recalled Kelly.

Continued on page 5

Proud Invermere Public Library staff and board members gather in front of the new bookmobile during its launch last week.

PHOTO STEVE HUBRECHT

Mobile library brings books to you

Continued from page 4

Fairmont Hot Springs residents Maegan and Cory Stanbury shared Kelly’s enthusiasm.

“It makes everything a lot more accessible. I think it’s going to fill a big gap,” said Maegan.

The bookmobile seemed a hit with younger valley residents too. Invermere brothers Emilio, 12, and Andre Hernandez, 10, loved it.

“The art (the bookmobile design) is very good, and there really are a lot of books,” Andre told the Pioneer

“It’s beautiful. I really like that now everybody will be able to go to the library no matter where in the valley they live,” added Emilio. “I’m surprised at how they were able to fit all the books in there. They were smart about how they packed them in.”

Getting the bookmobile on the road cost about $260,000, and library staff and board members were extremely grateful for all the groups and donors that contributed.

“It was a huge community effort, people really stepped forward,” said Invermere library trustee Rod Martin.

“Normally you have to go get the book. Now the book is coming to you,” added library board chair Claes Palmgren.

“I love that it’s not just books, it’s all library services. Everything from wifi to community connection,” said Heather McLeod, another Invermere library trustee.

Visit invermere.bc.libraries.coop/our-services/bookmobile-library-on-the-road/ to find out more, including the book mobile’s schedule.

•

Invermere brothers Emilio, 12, and Andre Hernandez, 10, give the new bookmobile a thumbs up (but only after they could be persuaded to tear their eyes from the engrossing reads they found onboard).

PHOTO STEVE HUBRECHT

Can't afford to lose it again

It’s very enlightening to see local Indigenous and Metis bands reaching out to schools to share their culture and traditions with the students.

For example, a camping experience that Elders and Knowledge Keepers offered to local pupils this winter, teaching them relationships with the land and the importance of responsible stewardship.

For many folks nearing their senior years, it brings back memories of learning Indigenous history in the classroom; the assignments on how they caught salmon, how they cured hides, and the tools they used to hunt. Not much focus was placed on residential schools or the colonization that took place to obliterate Indigenous culture and their way of life.

Sadly, a lot of the First Nation language and time-honoured traditions were lost under this oppression, and it has taken a long time, with much effort, to regain this heritage and teach it to the younger generation. That’s why it is so inspiring to see the ?akisq’nuk First Nation and Shuswap Band offering these experiences to our youth. (You can’t beat cooking bannock on a stick over an open fire.) The stories and legends they tell are fascinating, and the shared traditions take you back to a time and place where land and animals were sacred, unlike today.

There was a time when some people felt being of Indigenous descent was not something to be proud of due to many years of systemic racism. But today, being First Nation, even though discrimination still exists, is something to be very proud of. Speaking to an Elder or Knowledge Keeper is an honour, and watching the youth carry on those traditions is, again, inspiring. There is so much beautiful heritage here that we cannot afford to lose it again.

Lyonel Doherty, editor

OPINION

Politicians erred on time

Some people in the East Kootenays wonder why we’ve been on the same clock time as Alberta. It’s simply that geographically we are surrounding the longitude of about 115 degrees GMT West. In fact, Cranbrook, Fernie, Invermere, and Golden are all near the centre longitude line of Alberta, which is the same 115 degrees. Longitude is how we calculate correct global standard time zones.

For thousands of years, humans have lived with a dawn and dusk time of equal duration of natural sunlight before and after 12 noon, when the sun is at its highest. This was our natural rhythm until artificial light was invented and gave us time options. But having daylight 1/2 in the morning and 1/2 in the afternoon aligns with our ingrained circadian rhythm.

For the East Kootenay latitude, we’d be best on standard time all year long to avoid mental hardships affecting some people, and for anoth-

er huge problem.

Daylight savings time all year in the most populated areas of BC will soon be discarded because of commuting in morning darkness.

Other countries have found there’s a lot more vehicle accidents from tired people [unnaturally up three hours before sunrise] and pedestrians [kids mostly] getting injured or killed in the dark. So these countries of similar latitude have wisely corrected back to regular time all year, relative to their longitude.

BC politicians have erred with choosing steady daylight savings time; they didn’t talk to experts. I’ll bet anyone that by sometime this midwinter, people will realize the dangers involved with very dark mornings until after 9 a.m. for commuting, and they will revert back to standard time all year.

Bill Ark, Invermere

Christina Boucher

VALLEY NEWS

Earth Day Fair brings community together

Submitted

On Saturday, April 18 the Columbia Valley Centre was filled with incredible organizations, businesses and individuals showcasing their work toward improving the sustainability of the Columbia Valley.

The Earth Day Fair kicked off with a community clean-up, and the community really showed up, collecting 21 full bags of garbage, eight bags of recycling and 75 pounds (34 kilograms) of scrap metal.

More than 60 participants came down and cleaned up around the valley from Wilmer to the river banks, downtown and the Shuswap area. Folks dispersed to all of the usual spots and returned to sort their findings and win instant prizes

Workshops from local businesses and community members included topics such as the future of energy efficiency in the Columbia Valley and how to organize your fridge to reduce food waste.

Columbia Valley Food & Farm

showcased their new ‘Nourish’ food recovery program and provided delicious home-made snacks made with recovered ingredients. They also discussed the true cost of food waste across Canada.

Repair zone experts shared knowledge and expertise on electronic repairs, and local sewing experts fixed attendees’ textiles right there on site.

It was a real sense of the strong and resilient community we have here in the Columbia Valley as orga-

nizations showcased their ongoing work as well as an interactive, bustling kids zone.

Community members left with smiles as they rode off with refurbished bikes from Bike it Forward, leading up to Invermere’s Farmers Market where Wildsight is bringing back their free community bike valet, encouraging residents to bike to the market starting June 13.

It was a great first Earth Day Fair and one the organization hopes to continue into the future.

The recent Earth Day Fair in Invermere offered something for everyone. At left, Joan Gallaway and Brian Wesley show off the $20 American bank note they found in the trash during the clean-up.

PHOTOS

PAT MORROW

Radium village gets new settling pond

By Steve Hubrecht steve@columbiavalleypioneer.com

The Village of Radium Hot Springs will begin construction on a new piece of water system infrastructure this year.

Late last year, Radium councillors agreed to allot up to $5.5 million in the budget for a new water intake and settling pond. Then recently they awarded the contract for the work to Cranbrook-based Galley Equipment Ltd.

Galley’s bid scored the highest under village staff’s evaluation, and also came in significantly under budget, at just under $3.5 million.

The pond will be part of the village’s water treatment plant, up Forster Creek, and will be in addition to the settling pond already there, helping the village expand its water capacity and making its water system more resilient to the effects of climate change.

“It will really help with water sustainability,” Radium mayor Mike Gray told the Pioneer in late 2025, after councillors set aside the money for the project.

The new settling pond means more time for silt and other particulate material in the water to settle.

“That’s a good thing for us, especially in freshet (spring runoff) season,” explained Gray. “It adds an extra level of early natural filtration and it also extends the lifespan of the existing settling pond.

The village is improving its water system by adding the new settling pond in part because the village’s

population has shot up in recent years (between the 2016 and 2021 censuses it surged 72.6 per cent to 1,300 residents, the highest growth rate of any incorporated B.C. municipality), but also in part because, as Gray outlined “the water itself has changed. The water comes down (from the mountains into the water system) with higher particulate matter.”

This is not because there’s suddenly more particulate matter in Forster Creek. Rather the ratio of particulate matter in the water is higher, because the overall volume of water there is lower. That’s due to persistent drought-like conditions in the Columbia Valley, and indeed throughout the interior of British Columbia during the past five years.

Climate change may mean those drought-like conditions are a new normal rather than just an odd rough patch, which is why the village needs to be proactive.

“This is something that’s going to pay for itself — more than pay itself — in the long run,” said Gray, adding local officials three decades ago had the foresight to think long term and developed a water system that took into account the needs of future generations.

“We’re still enjoying the benefits of that. We have one of the best water systems in the province. The quality of Radium’s water shows that,” said Gray. “That spirit (of planning ahead) has been instilled and continues, and we need to do today what’s right for Radium residents 30 years down the road.”

Gray added this sort of forward thinking is particularly important when it comes to infrastructure, noting that the longer you put off a key project, the more it costs once you actually get around to it.

Village staff hope to tender the work in 2026, with an eye to construction starting in spring or summer. They’ve pursued grants

and other funding to help pay for the project, and have already secured a provincial grant worth $2.5 million. Last summer they applied for $3 million in funding from the Union of British Columbia Municipalities (UBCM) Strategic Priorities Fund, and the village can also use money from the village’s sewer utility reserves, if need be.

Radium Hot Springs is improving its water sytem by adding a new settling pond.

PHOTO ISABELLE SOURIMENT/GETTY IMAGES

Thursday April 30

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 May 1

1:00pm - Tennis for Everyone - Columbia Valley Mixed Doubles Tennis, Rotary Park Tennis Courts.

1:00pm - Duplicate Bridge at the Invermere Seniors Hall.

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

Saturday May 2

1:00-8:30pm - Radius Retreat, Radium Hot Springs. Join in for a celebration of valley community at Radius Rhythm & Riffs 2026! Enjoy a full day of local, original live music set against stunning mountain views, plus a family fun zone, food trucks, local vendors, and cold brews. Free shuttles will be running in and out throughout the event. Get your tickets now: radiusrnr.ca

2:00-5:00pm - Wildwood. Four Points Books. Celebrating the new edition of Wildwood by Elinor Florence. Elinor will be in the store, come by to chat with her and have your book signed.

4:00-6:00pm - Meat Draw and 50/50 in the Legion. Members and guests welcome.

Sunday May 3

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

Monday May 4

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 - Tennis for Everyone - Columbia Valley Mixed Doubles Tennis, Rotary Park Tennis Courts.

1:30pm - Cribbage at Invermere Seniors Hall.

6:30pm - Fun Bridge at Invermere Seniors Hall.

Tuesday May 5

11:30am - Scrapbooking at Invermere Seniors Hall.

6:00pm - Elvis Rocks the 75th! Celebrate the District of Invermere’s 75th Anniversary with an evening of rock ’n’ roll, film and retro fun. In partnership

with the Invermere Film Festival.

6:00 pm – Live music by local band the Blue Suede Crew. 7:00 pm Feature Film – EPiC: Elvis Presley in Concert Documentary. Enjoy 1950s themed fun all night! Come dressed in your best Elvis or 50s inspired outfit for a costume contest with prizes and capture the moment at our retro photo booth. Bring your friends, family and your blue suede shoes for this fun community celebration. Free cupcake for the first 75 ticket holders! Tickets: $7.50 at invermerefilm.org 6:30-8:00pm - Second Winds Community Band Practises every Tuesday at the Catholic Church in Invermere. New members are welcome.

Wednesday May 6

1:00pm - Duplicate Bridge at the Invermere Seniors Hall.

1:00pm - Tennis for Everyone - Columbia Valley Mixed Doubles Tennis, Rotary Park Tennis Courts.

2:00-3:00pm - Sewcial Hour Invermere Public Library. Bring your textile projects. Come and enjoy a cup of tea and connect with other makers. All welcome to attend.

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

To see your event in the Pioneer, send event details to admin@columbiavalleypioner.com

Site Maintenance Contractors Required

Recreation Sites and Trails BC is seeking two qualified contractors - one for the Invermere area and one for the Kootenay-White area - to provide regular maintenance services at recreation sites.

The Invermere contract includes 44 site visits across three recreation sites. The Kootenay-White contract includes 30 site visits across ten recreation sites. Site visits typically occur between May and September, with potential for additional project work. Duties include painting and minor repairs of recreation infrastructure, removing litter, cleaning outhouses, removing deadfall along access roads and within recreation sites, updating signage, reporting safety or maintenance concerns, and other related tasks as directed by the recreation officer.

How to Apply: Applications must be received by May 15, 2026. For NRQ (Non-Binding Request for Quote) packages and further information, reference:

Invermere Maintenance contract: RC27.258.0001

Kootenay-White Maintenance contract : RC27.258.0003

Contact: Tara Robinson – Tara.Robinson@gov.bc.ca

ENTERTAINMENT

Rhythms and Riffs to soothe the soul

By Steve Hubrecht steve@columbiavalleypioneer.com

The summer festival season is set to kick off on a strong note here in the Columbia Valley with Radius Rhythms and Riffs just around the corner.

The community and music event is now in its third year, and has gone from strength to strength. This year’s edition is on Saturday, May 2 at Radius Retreat, just north of Radium Hot Springs, and promises to be even better than before.

“We’re very excited about having it again,” organizer Patrick Carrick told the Pioneer

The festival began as a way to showcase local Columbia Valley musicians who write and perform their own original songs. The idea has proved popular both with festival goers and with performers, and the event is fast becoming a staple of the local arts and culture scene.

market vendors, a kids fun zone (replete with bouncy castles, games, activities and more) and the forested setting of Radius Retreat, which has trails festival attendees are welcome to wander. The atmosphere makes Rhythms and Riffs a hit not only with music lovers, but with youngsters, oldsters, families and just about every other demographic you can think of.

“It’s a big old shindig,” said Carrick. “We realize that if kids are happy and busy, then so are the parents.”

Initially the festival featured musicians only from the Columbia Valley, but this year there will also be bands from Golden and Kimberley and other nearby parts of the Kootenay.

“We do want to keep that local Columbia Valley spotlight, but also wanted to broaden the reach just a little bit,” explained Carrick.

Notice is hereby given that the Council of the Village of Radium Hot Springs is considering third reading and subsequent adoption of Bylaw No. 538, 2026 Bylaw Offence Amendment at the Regular Council Meeting to be held:

Monday, May 11th, 2026 at 4:00 PM

Council Chambers – Village Office

4836 Radium Blvd.

Radium Hot Springs, BC

The proposed new bylaw will affect clauses in the Business Licence and Regulation Bylaw No. 244, 2001 (repeal clauses 4.02 (a-g) and 4.03 (1-3), and clauses in 11 other Village bylaws relating to municipal ticketing and offences and replace those clauses with updated and standardized wording.

All persons who consider themselves affected by the adoption of the proposed Bylaw No. 538, 2026 Bylaw Offence Amendment may make representations to Council by:

1. Providing a written submission by mail, fax or email to be received by 10:00am on Thursday, May 7th (contact information below); or by

2. Presenting written and/or verbal submissions at the Council meeting.

There will be an opportunity to attend the Council meeting virtually, with details provided on the Council meeting agenda, which will be posted in the Document Centre on the Village website on Thursday, May 7th, 2026.

Submissions cannot be accepted after the Council meeting.

The Bylaw is available for inspection at the Village Office, 8:30am – 4:30pm, Monday to Friday (excluding statutory holidays) and on the Village website: www.radiumhotsprings.ca

Village of Radium Hot Springs

PO Box 340, 4836 Radium Blvd.

Radium Hot Springs, BC, V0A 1M0

Ph: 250-347-6455

Fax: 250-347-9068 Email: cao@radiumhotsprings.ca

The early May timing of the festival marks it out as a ‘shoulder season’ event, falling slightly ahead of the main crush of the summer tourist season (which usually doesn’t begin in earnest until the Victoria Day long weekend in mid to late May). But that’s just what makes it appealing for local residents.

“It is a chance for us to come out of our winter caves into the light again,” said Carrick, with a laugh.

There’s plenty of local food and

Rock and rollers Leather Apron Revival are festival headliners this year, and the bill also includes Tryg Strand and the Band (who have built up a local following in the Columbia Valley over the past few years), the Jumping Rodents, Emma Kade, the Radium Project, Humungous Fungus, Kenzie Duboiz (with Dane Von Hagen), Kevin Olson, the 4 Kings of Groove, and Soul Machine (the David Thompson Secondary School jazz band).

Continued on page 11

Radius Rhythms and Riffs is just around the corner, so get your tickets now.

PHOTOS DALIA JUCHEM

Festival offers something for everyone

Continued from page 10

Radius Rhythms and Riffs attracted 400 attendees its first year, and about 600 last year. Carrick expects a similar, or even higher turnout this year.

“I think the reputation (of the festival) has grown,” he said.

In an age in which AI (artificial intelligence) is increasingly used in the music world, attending a music festival still has a unique appeal, outlined Carrick.

“I’m not against AI. But in terms of music, with AI, it is a very confusing time. But human connection is something AI will never replace, and connection is what live music is all about,” Carrick told the Pioneer “When you’re watching and listening to a musician put their soul into their performance, there is an energy to it. The audience feeds on that, and it’s amazing.”

Carrick is hoping the festival also helps encourage some of the many talented young musicians in the Columbia Valley to start playing

together. He noted that when he was young almost anyone who could play music wanted to be part of a band. These days it’s different.

“I’m not sure why that is, but I hope, with the festival, we can inspire young musicians to work with each other. There is something powerful about playing with other individuals — the creating and collaborating,” he said.

Parking at the festival site is limited, so there will be a bus from Invermere (ticket is required) or a free shuttle between Radium Hot Springs and Radius Retreat.

There will also be an after party at Goat St. restaurant in Radium following the festival, with local singersongwriter Nathan Turner.

Carrick extends thanks to the Columbia Valley Arts Council and other sponsors and partners who help make the festival possible.

To find out more or to purchase tickets, visit www.radiusretreat. com/rhythms-riffs or find ‘Radius Rhythms & Riffs’ on Facebook.

The popular music festival will include a kids zone to keep children busy and parents happy. PHOTOS DALIA JUCHEM

SPORTS

Rugby player pushing to revive sport

By Steve Hubrecht steve@columbiavalleypioneer.com

Invermere residents were treated to a very rare sight recently – competitive adult rugby.

The Cranbrook and Kimberley-based Rocky Mountain Rogues rugby club played two matches against the Cochrane, Alberta-based Bow Valley Grizzlies at David Thompson Secondary School on Saturday, April 18. One was a women’s ‘7s’ game (meaning seven players per side), the other a men’s ‘15s’ game (15 players per side).

The Grizzlies won the women’s 7s game, while the Rogues took the men’s 15s game, but winning wasn’t the point. Both rugby clubs travelled from their home bases to Invermere in an effort to showcase good quality adult rugby to Columbia Valley residents, and potentially spark interest in forming an official rugby club here.

That’s the dream of the matches’ organizer and Canal Flats resident Kelsey Olson. “I want to at least get people talking about it, and hopefully light a fire here,” Olson told the Pioneer Olson, an Indigenous education support

worker, has lived in the Columbia Valley for nearly a decade. But prior to that she was in Victoria for a long time, where rugby is popular and where she was part of a rugby club. When she moved to the valley, she was surprised to find no rugby clubs here.

To fill the ‘rugby void’ in her life, she began coaching the DTSS high school rugby team, and eventually, in 2022, joined the Rocky Mountain Rogues.

Even though the Rogues are based almost an hour to the south, becoming part of that club “was like finding my home again,” said Olson.

Still, she believes there is plenty of potential within Invermere, Radium Hot Springs, Canal Flats, Fairmont Hot Springs, Windermere and other valley communities to form a proper rugby club of the valley’s own.

As evidence of that potential, Olson pointed out there once was in fact, just such a club — the Invermere Tigers Rugby Football Club (RFC). It was founded in the late 1960s and lasted into the early 2000s.

Many of the “old boys” — alumni of the for

mer Invermere Tigers RFC – came to watch the Rogues and Grizzlies matches, as did a fair number of other community members.

“We had good turnout, which was great,” reported Olson. “And the rugby itself was good. It was very entertaining. There were a lot of talented players out there.”

Olson has started an informal Columbia Valley Tiger RFC group, paying tribute to the original Invermere Tigers without copying them verbatim. Right now the group functions more as a hub for all things rugby-related in the valley than it does as an actual club per se, but it’s got a social media presence, and Olson plans to start co-ed touch rugby (i.e non-contact) for adults on Monday nights, with hopes to build up a full-blown club from there.

“I’ve always found rugby to be a very inclusive sport, where there is space for everyone,” Olson told the Pioneer. “Rugby has a unique culture in that way, and I want to share that with the valley.”

Find ‘Columbia Valley Tigers RFC’ on Facebook to learn more.

See more on page 18

The Rocky Mountain Rogues and Bow Valley Grizzlies played two rugby matches in Invermere recently

Seniors program needs more volunteers

Submitted

Most of us who live and work in the Columbia Valley know about Family Dynamix, and their passionate and dedicated team that provides mental, social, physical, and financial wellness to residents of all ages from Canal Flats in the south to Spillimacheen in the north and every community in between.

The Columbia Valley Better at Home is a province wide program funded by the United Way BC to support seniors to age in place, stay connected to their community and prevent social isolation.

“This program has a positive impact on the seniors who receive our services as well as a huge impact on the caregivers and the families of the seniors in our program,” said Family Dynamix Executive Director, Ute Juras, adding that “if the extended family is from out of town, it gives them peace of mind to know their relative is being supported.”

The Columbia Valley Better at Home Program provides non-medical services such as friendly visits, transportation for medical appointments, groceries, prescription pickup, and delivery. A staff member provides light housekeeping. All services are delivered on a sliding scale depending on the senior’s income.

Currently, there is a real and immediate need for more volunteers in the Better at Home program, said Columbia Valley Better at Home Coordinator, Jennifer Lindal. “I would

like to see another twenty volunteers,” she said. “That would allow us to support more clients. We don’t expect our volunteers to be available all the time so if we have enough to draw from, we can make sure all seniors in the Columbia Valley that have a non-medical need are helped.”

Volunteering for the program can be as simple as making periodic friendly phone calls to check in with an isolated senior or taking them grocery shopping. Volunteers are compensated for their mileage when they transport a senior and Family Dynamix tries to pair volunteers and seniors within their respective communities.

“Local placements also help the participants build stronger relationships within their own community,” said Lindal.

Feedback from the programs participants has been overwhelmingly positive, with clients, caregivers and even volunteers expressing how meaningful and impactful these connections have been. One client’s family said that in the brief time their family member has utilized the program, they have noted “the considerable difference social interaction has made for them. They look forward to each of the interactions throughout the week.”

More positive feedback from one of the clients themselves expressed their heartfelt appreciation for the incredible support they have received from the program. “Thanks

to your efforts, I’m able to get to and from local appointments with ease, enjoy freshly prepared dinners and benefit from weekly housekeeping.” These services have made the senior’s daily life more manageable and have brought comfort, peace of mind and a sense of connection. “One thing that stands out to me is the thoughtful consistency of the whole team,” they said. “Whether it’s the friendly drivers, delicious meals, or the care taken in cleaning my home, every gesture reflects genuine kindness and respect.”

The Columbia Valley Better At Home Program has had inquiries from seniors throughout the Valley who have immediate needs that Family Dynamix would like to be able to support as soon as possible, and more volunteers are needed to make this happen, Lindal said.

“We need a volunteer to drive a senior to get groceries and another senior needs a ride to medical ap-

pointments,” she said. Another client needs their groceries picked up and delivered once a week, she said. “I also have seniors in communities throughout the Columbia Valley that need rides to medical appointments and to run errands.”

So if you have some time, and are looking to give back to your Columbia Valley community in the most meaningful way possible, and in doing so help make your community more compassionate by supporting seniors to remain in their home and age in place, then you should definitely reach out to Jennifer Lindal at Family Dynamix, by emailing jlindal@fdx.family or by calling 250.342.5566 / 250.342.1110 for more information.

If you or someone you know could benefit from the Columbia Valley Better at Home Program, please reach out to Jennifer as well at the same contact information listed above.

SPORTS

Minor hockey awards

The Windermere Valley Minor Hockey Association held its annual awards night at the Radium Hot Springs Centre on Wednesday, April 15, celebrating the hard work, dedication and achievements of the athletes from the past season.

Featured were team and individual awards, recognition of volunteers and coaches, and time to reflect on a great year of hockey.

PHOTOS CHRIS MOSELEY

Weston Shanks sings the national anthem to open the awards night.

Award winners honoured

Senior and Junior Referee of the Year: Colin Gallaway and Ernie Parent

Eddie Mountain Volunteer of the Year: Steph and Jason Botterill

David White Award for Most Dedicated Player: Ethan Dewey

Most Sportsmanlike Team of the Year: U11A (right photo)

Female Player of the Year Award: Sydnee Brooks

George Gibson Award for Most Inspirational Player: Bruce Bush

Mike Warriner Coach of the Year: John Bourbeau

This season was the last in minor hockey for these graduating U18 players (left

The Wood Lane Watermain Replacement Project is underway in Windermere. The $1.44 million project will also include additional components such as curb stops, isolation valves, hydrants, and other related infrastructure.

During construction, temporary access may be required to areas adjacent to the construction zone and temporary water outages are expected. Please follow posted signs and instructions from our construction crews for your safety.

We will provide construction updates to help keep residents informed along the way on the Wood Lane project page listed below.

LEARN MORE engage.rdek.bc.ca/woodlane

photo). From left, Chase Kinsey, Calden Stanbury, Keegan Kelly, Cara Jaskela, Sydnee Brooks, Erica Pfisterer, and Maya Eccles.

DTSS Lakers kick off soccer season SPORTS

By Steve Hubrecht steve@columbiavalleypioneer.com

The David Thompson Secondary School (DTSS) Lakers have kicked off the girls soccer season in style.

The mountains were still snow clad and local ski slopes still open when the Lakers girls team, both senior and junior, took to the soccer pitches to begin practising, but spring has arrived in the Columbia Valley in earnest and the Lakers are already posting strong results.

The senior DTSS girls (Grades 10, 11 and 12) hosted their home tournament on Saturday, April 10 and Sunday, April 11, placing third. They then took part in the Mount Baker tournament in Cranbrook on Saturday, April 17 and Sunday, April 18, where they came in second.

“We’re extremely happy,” said Craig Wilcock, one of the senior girls coaches (along with Ben Tregidgo). “We are really playing well as a team, and the girls do a really good job supporting each

other on and off the field.”

The Lakers have frequently come up against the juggernaut Mount Baker Secondary School senior girls squad and battled bravely against their big-town rivals. Mount Baker has a much larger student population, and often blows out other East Kootenay by wide margins on the soccer field (think scores of 9-0 or 16-1). But not the Lakers. This year, although DTSS has lost each time against Mount Baker, the Lakers have kept the scores quite close and given the Mount Baker Wild Bears a real run for their money.

“We’re punching way above our weight,” Wilcock told the Pioneer

The DTSS senior girls will host the zone championships in Invermere, squaring off against other Kootenay schools on Wednesday, May 13.

Wilcock encourages community members to come to Mount Nelson Athletic Park (MNAP) and cheer the Lakers on. If the Lakers do well at the zone championship, they’ll qualify for the provincial finals in Kamloops on May 28 to May 30.

The junior DTSS girls (Grades 8 and 9) have also played two tournaments to date. They hosted their home tournament at DTSS, coming in fourth, and then last weekend travelled to Creston for the Kootenay River Secondary School tournament, where they came in third (although they were tied for second on points, and came third only based on goal differential). Across the two tournaments the junior Lakers have played seven games total, posting a record of three wins, one tie, and three losses.

“Without a doubt, every game we play, we get a little bit better ... every player on the team seems to want to keep learning. I think that’s starting to show and the girls believe in themselves too. So it’s very optimistic so far,” said junior girls coach Ryan Stimming.

The junior Lakers will play their zone championships at Selkirk Secondary School in Kimberley on Wednesday, May 6, with the same aim as their senior counterparts to advance to the provincial finals.

The DTSS Lakers senior girls soccer team has started the season strongly and will host the zone championships at Mount Nelson Athletic Park in May.

SPORTS

The DTSS Lakers junior girls soccer team's season is also underway. They held their home tournament on April 15-16 and played well against visiting East Kootenay teams.

PHOTOS CHRIS MOSELEY

Fans hope rugby fever catches on

that

It is hoped

a new rugby club can be established in the Columbia Valley again.

PHOTOS KELSEY ADELE PHOTOGRAPHY

Here To Serve You

Pupils learn Metis culture with sash

Columbia Valley Pioneer staff

Students from Martin Morigeau Elementary School recently learned about Metis culture by attending a sashing ceremony.

More than 20 students of Metis ancestry were presented with mini sashes by Elder Pheb Goulet during the ceremony. They also received

a book called ‘I am Metis’ gifted by Metis Nation BC.

Goulet shared the history and significance of the sash, which is a long strip of colourful woven cloth that is a profound symbol of Metis identity and culture.

The ceremony concluded with Metis jigging (traditional dance) to celebrate the occasion.

Radium Community Chipping Day

Radium will hold its annual Community Chipping Day again in 2026, on Thursday, May 21st. This program is free of charge and allows residents to remove combustible vegetation from their properties, with the chipping crew handling the debris removal. Residents can place FireSmart debris out up to 10 days before May 21st for removal on the 21st. Registration is required, as the crew will only visit the addresses on its list.

To register, email village@radiumhotsprings.ca or call 250 347 6455 and provide your name, civic address in Radium and a contact number. For more information, email Steve at firesmart@radiumhotsprings or visit the village webpage at www.radiumhotsprings.ca and search for FireSmart.

Chipping guidelines:

• The preferred branch length is one to two and a half metres, and a maximum diameter of 13cm.

• Piles must be placed 1.5 - 2m back from the edge of the road and must not obstruct any drainages or culverts.

• Piles must not be placed earlier than the indicated start date.

• The thickest end of the branches should be facing towards the road.

• Do not include rotten wood, as it cannot be put through the chipper.

• Only tree and shrub materials will be chipped (no construction materials/treated wood, leaves, needles, or bark chips).

• Do your best to keep your piles tidy and easy to pull apart.

• Make multiple 1m wide piles rather than one huge one.

• Consider thinning the trees up to a 3-metre tree spacing, and limbing the branches up to 2 metres.

A Metis sashing ceremony at Martin Morigeau Elementary School.

y p the

BC Ser vice Building, South End. 624-4th St. Invermere.

Rural Range Patrol

Annual General Meeting

Wednesday May 3, 7 pm at Columbia Valley Chamber of Commerce meeting room

NEW BROKERAGE! NEW TEAM! ANNOUNCEMENTS

GERRY 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

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 Two Lane Blacktop. We had so much fun at the legion. The dance floor was always full. What a great night. That was our first time going to one of your shows. We have been missing out on some great entertainment!

SUSANNAH E. MCAFEE (nee Calwell)

CLASSIFIED ADVERTISING

IN MEMORIUM

MEMORIUM

In Loving Memory of Ted

February 3, 1934 to April 24, 2006

If the roses grow in heaven Lord, please pick a bunch for me

Place them in my husband's arms and tell him they're from me

Tell him that I love him and miss him, and when he turns to smile, place a kiss upon his cheek and hold him for a while

Because remembering him is easy, I do it everyday; but there is an ache within my heart that will never go away.

Tell him that I love him and miss him, and when he turns to smile, place a kiss upon his cheek and hold him for a while Because remembering him is easy, I do it everyday; but there is an ache within my heart that will never go away.

Love you forever Until we meet again - Love Edel

Love you forever. Until we meet again - Love Edel

Cheers to Penny, Mark and the gang for the great meals you prepare.

Cheers to the Fairmont Lions and the Columbia Valley Stewardship Society for the great Highway Clean up Event. Well organized with a fantastic lunch to follow!

Cheers to KKCFSS for hosting the Community Strengthening Dinner on April 20. We appreciate the hard work that goes into preparing such good food. The chicken pot pies were delicious!

Cheers to DOI for taking care of the ditch adjacent to my property line. By cutting down the 4 feet tall brush and weeds, you are making the area FireSmart. Much appreciated.

Cheers to Lori Sluth. You are a great cook!

Tony Peterson (Anton) 64, of Wilmer, BC, passed away on April 7, 2023 at Invermere District Hospital with his wife & children by his side.

Cheers to Dr. Sveen for the great care I received and for being so thorough when I came into the ER.

Tony was born in Invermere, BC to Arnold & Florence (Wells) Peterson on August 19, 1958

He lived in the valley his whole life & was a hard working man from a young age, working in the forestry industry & small mills his entire life.

Cheers to Andrea at the Invermere Lab. You took one for the team by offering to try to get blood from my teeny-weeny veins. I know I can count on you to get the job done. You are awesome!

He enjoyed camping, fishing, hunting, golf & gambling. His family was always his top priority Spending time watching his kids play hockey & baseball were things he really loved.

His 6 grandkids were his pride & joy always. He loved watching their hockey games & playing with the little ones.

A great big Cheers to the residents of Lakeview Manor for the awesome surprise potluck party to celebrate my retirement. Cheers to Nelda & Ellie for spearheading this fun filled evening with lots of food, drinks and fun. I appreciate the flowers and gift certificates. Cheers to Michelle for the pretty tasty chocolate cake. Cheers to each and every one of you for making me feel special!

January 25, 1939 ~ April 4, 2023

It is with sadness that the family of Susannah E. McAfee (nee Calwell) announces her passing on April 4, 2023 in lnvermere, BC.

Tony is survived by his love of 46 years, Dianne His children; Adam (Sara) Peterson-grandkids, Jaecie & Brayden, Ashley (Ryan) Barlow- grandkids, Julie & Ty, Megan (Scott) Cocciolo-grandkids, Cameron & Kayla. His siblings; Pat, Kathy, Angie, Bruce, Sandy, Lizzy, Ina, Rusty, Kristine & their families.

A Celebration of Life for Tony, will be held at Radium Hot Springs Centre on Sunday, April 23 at 3:00 p.m

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Invermere Health Care Auxiliary Society, palliative care room, 1229 7th Ave, Box 571 Invermere, BC V0A 1K0 or a charity of your choice The family wishes to extend our gratitude to everyone who has been here for us & for Tony during the past few months.

Susan was born on 25th of January, 1939 at Elrose, SK and trained to become a psychiatric nurse While nursing in North Battleford, SK she met her husband Dr David McAfee Susan and David enjoyed an active community life and lovingly raised their three children who are left to cherish her memory: Shane (Donna); Sean (Joyce) and children Chloe, Olivia and Declan; Wendi and her son Sean (Ellie) all residing in Calgary, AB. Also left to cherish Susan’s memory are her siblings: Pat Gulak (Lloydminster), Ila Tatomir (Elrose), Jim (Joyce) (Elrose), and Ivan (Lori) (Blind Bay) and sisters-in-law Tena and Lorna.

Susan was predeceased by her husband in June of 2002 and by her siblings Tom, Grant, Bob, and Verne.

A private family interment will be held in North Battleford, SK at a later date Memorial donations can be made to Angel Flights East Kootenay (angelflightek.ca).

We offer competitive wage, a great benefit package, uniforms with laundry, and a Monday to Friday work week. Email your resume to k5integratire@gmail.com , Call 250-342-9316, or stop in and chat with us!

Just a reminder… The classified deadline is 12 noon Monday

Cheers to Invermere Legion for the great entertainment on Saturday April 18th. What a fun night.

Cheers to Katie at Tim Horton’s. You are a great addition to the team and we love your service with a smile!

K. B. Creations Handyman services, Renovations, Masonry, Plumbing, Drywall & Painting. Please call Kevin 250-688-2897

Looking to connect with art and community? Volunteer as a CVArts Gallery Host. Welcome guests, enjoy lake views, and spend time in a relaxed, social setting—coffee included. Email: columbiavalleyarts@gmail.com

at 5208 84 Avenue SE, Calgary, AB claims a PPSA Lien against Perry, Jeanette of Radium Hot Springs, BC for arrears of container rent amounting to $3,391.62, plus any additional costs of storage that accrue. If not paid in full, the contents of the storage container filled with what we believe to be furniture, ladder, boxes, bicycle, and other miscellaneous items, will be sold via online auction, on Ibid4Storage.com on May 1, 2026. Two full-time positions available:

CHEERS WITHOUT TEARS WANTED

WANTED

The use of a secure space for the storage of a snow blower for about six months.

prapro@shaw ca 250 341 3540

Cheers to the Rotarians for once again raising their provincia ags on the museum grounds A great addition to ou communit y

Cheers to the Rotarians for once again raising their provincia ags on the museum grounds A great addition to our communit y

HELP NEEDED

In search of person to help with flowers 4 days per week

Watering, pruning, etc.

Apply at terravistagm@gmail.com

Accounting Clerk (Permanent Part-time)

The Village of Canal Flats has an immediate opportunity for a part-time Accounting Clerk to work in our office. The successful candidate will report to the Chief Financial Officer or delegate and be part of a dynamic office team three days per week (21 hours).

Position Profile

The Accounting Clerk provides a wide variety of accounting related functions including, but not limited to:

• Accounts payable, accounts receivable, property taxes, and payroll

• Preparation of journal entries and financial reports

• Responds to telephone and in-person inquiries from staff and the public

• Performs cashier duties

• Performs related clerical duties such as word processing, maintaining filing and record systems, faxing and photocopying

• Performs other related duties, as required

Required Knowledge, Abilities and Skills

• General Knowledge of office procedures and protocol

• General computer literacy including good keyboarding skills, preferably with Microsoft Word and Excel

• Proven ability to receive and reconcile cash Proficiency with financial management software

• The ability to maintain harmonious relationships with all members of the public and other staff members

• Grade 12 or equivalent with three years of general accounting or related experience in the last five years

Preferred Criteria

• Experience working in Local Government finance

• Experience with Aptean iCity software for municipalities Successful completion of college-level accounting courses and certifications

Wage and Benefits:

The position offers a wage of $22-$27 per hour, contingent upon experience and qualifications.

The Village of Canal Flats offers the following workplace benefits:

• Extended health, dental and life insurance benefits paid by the employer;

• Earn paid sick and holiday time;

• Enrollment in the Municipal Pension Plan with employer matching;

The Village of Canal Flats is proud to be an equal opportunity workplace and strives to promote and preserve a culture of diversity, equity and inclusion. We know that our greatest strengths come from the people who make up our teams, working together to deliver responsible and responsive public service to create a more vibrant community.

To be considered for this excellent opportunity, please send your cover letter and resume to Cynthia White, Chief Administrative Officer by email to cynthia.white@canalflats.ca or in person at the Village office. Applications, including three references from your work life, will be received until April 17, 2026.

We thank all interested individuals for their applications for this position, however, only those selected for an interview will be contacted.

P.O. Box 159, 8866 Grainger Road, Canal Flats, BC, V0B 1B0

Phone: 250-349-5462 Fax: 250-349-5460 Email: village@canalflats.ca

Operator (Temporary full-time)

The Village of Canal Flats is a Genuine Lifestyle community. Come join us and be a part of all the good things happening in the village!

Public Works Operator

Reporting to the Public Works Foreman, the Operator is a part of a team that looks after roads, sidewalks, drainage, diking, water and sewer utilities for the Village. Canal Flats has a small Public Works crew and the tasks are varied and interesting. The Village is seeking a hard-working, self-starting, quick-learning, versatile team member who enjoys working in a small community environment. This is a temporary position for a 1 year term with the potential for permanent placement.

Required Knowledge, Abilities and Skills

The successful candidate will have:

• Grade 12 or equivalent

• Class 5 BC Driver’s License with air endorsement (Class 3 preferred)

• Certification in WD, WWC or WWTP through EOCP (Level 1 in all 3 preferred)

• Two years labouring experience

• Two years experience running equipment

• Local Government Public Works experience and or training is an asset.

Hours of Work

• 7:30 AM to 4:00 PM Monday to Friday (40-hour work week)

• Overtime and on-call after hours, on weekends and holidays will be required.

Wage and Benefits:

The position offers a wage of $30 - $35 per hour, contingent upon experience and qualifications. A generous workplace benefits package is available.

Send cover letter, resume and copies of certifications via email to Sjac Pronk, Public Works Foreman, Village of Canal Flats ( sjac.pronk@canalflats.ca ) by May 1, 2026. Please note, only short-listed candidates will be contacted.

P.O. Box 159, 8866 Grainger Road, Canal Flats, BC, V0B 1B0 Phone: 250-349-5462 Fax: 250-349-5460 Email: village@canalflats.ca

All the Buzz - Well-known local resident L. F. “Buzz” Harmsworth (middle) was presented with two certificates marking 65- and 70-year membership in the Masonic Order. Buzz, who served as the local conservation officer for many years, was initiated into Freemasonry in Victoria’s St. Andrew’s Lodge in 1956. He affiliated with Invermere’s Columbia Lodge after arriving here. He is the first recipient of a 70-year certificate in the history of the local Masonic Lodge. Brian Stringer and Don Tegart hold the certificates and Buzz is surrounded by other local Masons: Barney Maslaniec, Ray Picton, Greg Constable, Ken Fisher, Floyd Verge, Andy Stuart-Hill, and Doug Kipp.

PHOTO SUBMITTED