Columbia Valley Pioneer - January 15, 2026

VALLEY NEWS Water woes concern Fairmont resident

By Lyonel Doherty editor@columbiavalleypioneer.com

A long-time Fairmont resident is questioning the integrity of the local water utility that has been plagued with leaks, power failures and boil water advisories over the past year.

Sue Coy told the Pioneer there were 18 boil water advisories in 2025. The last one was issued on November 18 but it has since been rescinded.

“There are many things wrong to include 18 water boil advisories and the day we couldn't flush toilets or do laundry or have a shower or anything.”

On November 18 Fairmont Hot Springs Utilities posted a boil advisory due to a complete power failure in the system that led to a depressurization in the entire service area. This prompted many concerns from residents who queried the contributing factors and what was being done to address the issue.

Fairmont Hot Springs Resort general manager Jesse Ferguson told the Pioneer the resort operates its water and utility systems in compliance with all applicable regulations and under the oversight of the appropriate governing authorities.

“Infrastructure challenges are not unique in Fairmont Hot Springs and occur periodically in regulated systems across the province,” he said.

But Coy has been pressing the issue, claiming that the private utility is not properly maintaining area fire hydrants and is using the community’s potable treated water to cool the resort’s pools.

Coy said she relayed these concerns to Ferguson, particularly her claim that no debris has been removed from the hydrants for more

than a year to ensure they will work properly in case of a fire.

“Still today I am questioning the integrity of the water utility that is supposed to maintain our hydrants as per our water utility money paid to them all year," she said.

Coy expressed these concerns to the local fire department, adding these hydrants should be tested. She also questions why the regional district won’t make this a law.

In response, Ferguson said that hydrants within the service area are inspected annually in accordance with the requirements of the governing authorities.

Area F director Susan Clovechok told the Pioneer the RDEK does not own or operate the system, therefore it is not within its jurisdiction. But she noted she has been working with community members to advocate to the Comptroller of Water Rights and the Ministry of Water Lands and Resource Sustainability to address the problem.

Coy said one official with the utility denied that it is using potable water to cool the resort’s pools.

“I went up there at 2 p.m. to photograph the people who were in the mountain pool while us paying customers had no water until the next day,” Coy lamented.

There has been a lot of discussion (concerns) about the issue on the Fairmont Community Association Facebook page. The Pioneer reached out to the association for comment but was told it is waiting for a response from provincial ministries before it takes any action.

Sioban Staplin, the constituency advisor for local MLA Scott McInnis, said he and the association sent letters to the ministries following a meeting in late fall but have not heard any response yet.

VALLEY SOLUTIONS

HOME

Peace of mind while you’re away Services include:

• Regular home checks

• Storm & weather damage inspection

• Maintenance reporting

• Keyholder service

Call or Text: 250-341-8443

Serving Invermere, Fairmont, Windermere, Radium & area

Locally Owned. Reliable. Insured. Whether you’re gone for a weekend or the whole season, we’ve got you covered.

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Ski hill opens platter lift

Columbia Valley Pioneer staff

The Fairmont Hot Springs Resort ski hill finally opened last weekend.

It was a limited opening, with only the Happy Trails platter lift and the magic carpet up and running, with access to just a few beginner runs (the chairlift is still shut down), but for snow-starved Fairmont skiers and snowboarders, it was a chance to make turns on the slopes nonetheless.

wrote in an email to season pass holders, adding that when it comes to ski lessons “we are currently looking at options to see what we can offer.”

Prior to that email, social media posts from the resort over the holidays about the ski hill being closed drew mixed responses, with some commenters expressing thanks to the resort’s staff for working to open up, and others outlining frustration at the situation and the amount of communication from the resort on it.

Columbia Valley Search and Rescue

Open House

Saturday, January 24, 2026 at 4:00 pm

If you are interested in joining the team and want to learn more about what we do, the training requirements and the time commitment, please join us at the the Columbia Valley Search and Rescue hall, at 1627 BC HWY 93/95, Windermere, BC (between the Windermere Fire station and the Go Carts). Email info@columbiavalleysar.ca for an application. Applications close January 31, 2026.

Several dozen families were out at the ski hill on the afternoon of Sunday, Jan. 11, and most had wide grins plastered on their faces.

The ski hill was at the centre of numerous discussions and rumours throughout the fall, with many local residents concerned the ski season would be altered or delayed after multiple senior staff at the hill resigned from their positions late in the summer or early in the fall.

In October the resort said on social media the ski hill was “scheduled to open as usual” and announced it had hired a new director of ski and golf, and followed that up with several posts through November showing efforts to get the hill ready.

On November 19, the resort, in a reply to a social media comment, wrote “we normally open the ski hill around December 21 each year.”

But weeks of warmer than usual temperatures (and drenching rain) in the lower elevations of the valley across much of early December prompted another social media post from the resort on December 15, outlining that “we need a little help from Mother Nature. Cold temperatures for snowmaking and natural snowfall haven’t arrived yet, so we don’t have a confirmed opening date ... opening day will depend entirely on the weather.” Four days later the resort posted social media photos of snow guns blowing, and Fairmont Hot Springs Resort general manager Jesse Ferguson told the Pioneer in an email that “for snowmaking, we require sustained temperatures of approximately -4 degrees Celsius or colder, with daytime temperatures staying below freezing to retain snow.”

The ski hill remained closed throughout the Christmas holidays and into the new year, but on Friday, Jan. 9 the resort announced it was ready to open the platter and magic carpet lifts starting on Saturday, Jan. 10. “We just need a little more help from Mother Nature before we can open the chairlift—but we know it’s on the way,” the resort

Calgary resident Wendy Tynan replied to a December 28 post, noting her family buys season passes specifically to ski over the Christmas holidays and wondered if a refund was possible.

The resort did not respond to Tynan online and she explained to the Pioneer that she’s also been unable to get an answer by calling. She and her family even tried to see what was happening at the hill in person by driving up there, but they found the access road blocked.

“We’ve had no communication at all,” said Tynan. “You hear a lot of rumours, but of course it’s hard to know what’s actually happening.”   Tynan’s two daughters are 13 and 10 years old. Every Christmas holiday since 2021, Tynan’s Toronto-based sister has flown west, given her nieces season passes as Christmas gifts, and the whole family has spent a week on the slopes at Fairmont. The family has grown to love the ski hill and the girls’ skiing has improved tremendously through the lessons they took there.

But they didn’t get the chance to add to that this year. If the resort had been transparent sooner about not being ready to open for the holidays, the family could have ‘pivoted’ and gone skiing somewhere else, explained Tynan. The family does try to get to Fairmont from Calgary for Family Day weekend, but Tynan’s sister can’t come west at that time, and missing out on the Christmas ski vacation means “we’ve lost a big window (of skiing).”

While acknowledging that warm temperatures this winter did play a role in the ski hill not opening on time, Tynan was disappointed the resort wasn’t more candid about the problem, and was disappointed that she and other season pass holders reached out multiple times through social media or by calling and got no clear answers.

“Certainly we understand that you can’t control the weather. But you can control how you communicate with customers, and I think that’s where the frustration lies,” she said.

Columbia Valley welcomes new doctor

By Steve Hubrecht  steve@columbiavalleypioneer.com

Physician recruitment efforts have paid off in spades with the Columbia Valley welcoming a new doctor.

Dr. Ogochukwu (OG) Ofiaeli relocated to Invermere with her family from Nigeria late last fall and joined the Invermere Medical Clinic.

“We’re very excited,” said Columbia Valley physician recruitment committee member Clara Reinhardt, adding that Dr. Ofiaeli had the choice of more than 20 communities and picked Invermere.

Dr. Ofiaeli’s arrival in the valley should — over time — “significantly reduce” the wait list to get a family doctor in Invermere, Reinhardt explained. “Obviously we need to be patient. It’s going to take her a while to catch up completely, but getting a new physician here in the valley is a very

“My medical practice has been quite diverse. I hope I can harness all my experience to promote the health of residents in Invermere.”

Dr. Ogochukwu Ofiaeli

big deal. Everyone in the community has been quite welcoming, and that’s also great.”

“It definitely feels good. The work we do is a long game and it’s nice to see some results from it,” added fellow physician recruitment committee member Pete Bourke

“It will certainly relieve some of the pressure

(on the wait list for family doctors).”

Both Bourke and Reinhardt emphasized that the valley still needs physicians for shortterm, medium-term and long-term locums.

Short-term locums can be as short as one or two weeks to cover local doctors who are away on vacation or other leaves, and long-term locums can be up to several months or more.

“Yes, we’ve got a new doctor, but physician recruitment continues to be a long-term and ongoing effort,” said Reinhardt.

In a website and social media post from the Columbia Valley Economic Development office, Dr. Ofiaeli said

“We chose Invermere because it seemed like a great place to nurture our family . . . Invermere fulfilled all the points on my list.”

Dr. Ofiaeli began her medical career in general practice before specializing in pediatrics, with particular interest in adolescent health and pediatric rheumatology.

She completed a fellowship in paediatrics through both the West African College of Physicians and the National Postgraduate Medical College of Nigeria. She has also served as a lecturer and honorary consultant in pediatrics at Nnamdi Azikiwe University and its teaching hospital.

“My medical practice has been quite diverse,” she said in the post. “I hope I can harness all my experience to promote the health of residents in Invermere and environs, children and families alike.”

Dr. Ofiaeli added she feels warmly welcomed, saying “the work atmosphere is great” and that “everyone has been quite supportive in helping me acclimatize to the new system.”

Property assessments up

Columbia Valley Pioneer staff

BC Assessment is reporting that property values are up in the Columbia Valley, including Invermere (four per cent), Canal Flats (nine per cent), and Radium Hot Springs (eight per cent).

In Invermere, the typical assessed value of a single family residential property was $679,000, compared to $707,000 in 2026.

In Canal Flats, the typical assessed value in 2025 was 326,000, compared to $356,000 in 2026. And in Radium, assessments jumped from $488,000 to $529,000. The current 2026 assessment notices indicate the estimation of a property value as of July 1, 2025.

Overall, the Southern Interior’s total assessments increased from approximately $323 billion in 2025 to nearly $330 billion this year.

For 2026, homeowners in the Kootenay Columbia region may see a rate of change in the minus five to plus 10 per cent range, according to BC Assessment Deputy Assessor Boris Warkentin.

When looking at the Columbia Valley, he told the Pioneer that the BC Assessment team of appraisers review sales that have occurred and ad-

just their assessment to reflect what has been indicated in the marketplace.

“The driver of those value shifts is a challenge to determine as each purchaser and seller have their own motivations and reasons to enter a real estate transaction,” he said.

Warkentin noted that overall prices in the Columbia Valley are less than most of the province, therefore they are seen as more affordable.

The deputy assessor pointed out that BC Assessment sent out more than 2.2 million assessment notices last year with a combined total of $2.75 trillion. He added that more than 99 percent of property owners accept their assessments without appeal. “This is a remarkably high accuracy rate and an accomplishment we are very proud of.”

Warkentin said a change in assessment does not mean a homeowner’s taxes will follow the same path.

Property owners can visit www.bcassessment.ca to better understand their assessment. By entering their address, they can also see other assessments in the neighbourhood as well as sales.

Notice to all Dog Owners

All dogs over 4 months require an annual licence (Jan 1–Dec 31). Licencing helps Animal Control contact you quickly if your dog is lost or injured.

If you reside within the District of Invermere you can purchase your dog tag at the municipal office:

2026 Fees:

FEMALE DOG $35.00

$35.00

$15.00

MALE DOG $15.00

Why Spay/Neuter?

Improves your dog’s health and helps reduce unwanted litters. Lower licence and impound fees apply to spayed/neutered dogs.

Dog Control

For dog related issues, call 250 342 1404.

Dog Control Bylaw 1072 Fines

$50.00

$100.00

Dog Areas

Ray Brydon: Off leash beyond gates. Wildlife present. Mount Nelson Athletic Park: Not a dog park. Dogs must be on leash.

Kinsmen Beach: No dogs on beach or grass May 1 – Oct 30. Leash required at other times.

Waste Reminder

Please use biodegradable

DISTRICT OF INVERMERE

Good and bad

Another new year has begun, and while some people will look at it through rose-coloured glasses, others can’t help but feel trepidation for what lies in wait.

But let’s start with some good news worthy of celebration: a new doctor has joined the Invermere Medical Clinic. Welcome Dr. Ogochukwu Ofiaeli who could have chosen many other communities to work in, but she chose Invermere because it fulfilled all the points on her checklist.

Kudos to Columbia Valley Community Economic Development and the physician recruitment team for helping bring Dr. Ofiaeli to the district.

Bring on some more good news with the hiring of Cynthia White, who is the Village of Canal Flats’ newest chief administrative officer. Like The Little Engine That Could, Canal Flats has done some impressive things in the community, and White, who is also a youth sports coach, will hopefully guide the village to greatness. Of course, the big challenge that awaits her is the water treatment dilemma that has plagued the community for months. Let’s hope it gets resolved in the new year without being too much of a financial burden on the taxpayer.

Speaking of water, some Fairmont residents have been reaching for extra strength Tylenol over their water utility that caused some headaches in 2025. Leaks, power failures, and boil water advisories have inconvenienced homeowners, so 2026 will be the year to put an end to these problems so that life in Fairmont can return to normal.

Moving on to short-term rentals (oh no, do we have to?), it has been a bane for some folks in the valley who have noticed a proliferation of STRs. While they certainly provide a boost to the local economy, they really do change the face of the neighbourhood and affect long-term housing availability. Yes, there are regulations, but not everyone adheres to them. In 2026 we need responsible operators, consistent enforcement, and residents to have patience and faith in the system.

Speaking again of a similar faith, many are awaiting the sentencing of a local woman who pleaded guilty to impaired driving that took the lives of three young men in 2024. It’s going to be another tough road for the parents and the guilty party, but there will finally be closure for everyone involved. It's yet another painful lesson about drinking and driving and the devastation it can cause in the blink of an eye.

Lyonel Doherty, editor

Historical Lens

WCA shares highlights

The Windermere Community Association (WCA) would like to share a few highlights from the past year and our plans for 2026.

With financial support from the RDEK we completed FireSmart upgrades to the exterior of the Windermere Community Hall, helping ensure it can be protected and used as a safe gathering place in an emergency. We also secured a Columbia Basin Trust grant to replace the aging heating system and insulate the crawlspace. These improvements will lower long-term energy costs and make the hall more comfortable for years to come.

These upgrades respond directly to the community’s message from past meetings: the hall is valued and worth maintaining. With major infrastructure work underway, we are now looking ahead to future projects. In 2026, we plan to fun-

draise for additional community initiatives, including progress toward a multi-use walking path connecting Taynton Road and Dell Road, allowing residents to avoid walking along the highway, with a pedestrian bridge over Windermere Creek.

In addition, the WCA has an active planning committee that continues to support the community by monitoring development issues, including short-term rental density, and working to ensure that growth in Windermere respects our Official Community Plan.

Anyone interested in becoming a member, donating to future projects, or receiving community updates is welcome to contact us at wcabrd@ gmail.com.

On behalf of the WCA, we wish everyone all the best in 2026.

Windermere Community Association

editor@columbiavalleypioneer.com

OPINION

Momentum starts with conversation

Invermere is changing — not suddenly, but steadily.

Let’s use our imagination for a second. Stay with me here.

What if there was a place where you could stretch, recover, relax, focus, train, lift weights, run, bike, sauna, shower, have a work meeting, get a massage, cry with your therapist, drop your kids off, grab a coffee, catch up with friends, play sports, climb, host or attend events, eat breakfast, lunch or dinner?

When we talk about infrastructure, we often think of roads, pipes, and buildings. But there’s another layer that’s just as important - spac-

es that support movement, health, connection, and daily life.

Right now, much of our recreational and wellness opportunities are seasonal, scattered, or pushed elsewhere. Families travel for sport. Athletes and outdoor workers piece together their different recovery options (which can be costly). Seniors and residents looking to stay active year-round have limited indoor choices. These aren’t complaints, they’re signals.

Signals that Invermere has grown into a place that needs more than what worked 20 years ago. Signals that the Columbia Valley is

functioning as a year-round engine, not just a seasonal destination.

This town deserves a multi-purpose movement, sport, and wellness space. Think YMCA, but shaped for a small mountain town and the realities of modern life.

I bet you have questions. Let me stop you. I’ve heard them!  Where would it go? Who’s involved? How would it work? What services would be offered? Who’s paying for this? How could something like this be sustainable? Wouldn’t this just be a ‘nice to have’?

There are two paths forward. One is continue doing our best with

what we have, stretching our existing options thin to meet growing demand. The other is to bring the right people together, set shared priorities, and think long-term about the kind of infrastructure that supports residents, families, and visitors alike (psst, I like the second option).

The question isn’t whether Invermere will change. It’s whether we take the time to shape that change with intention. If we do take the time, well then, we won’t have to use our imagination anymore.

Momentum starts with conversation. Let’s start talking about this.

Daven McMurray, Invermere

RDEK seeks nominations for VOTY

Submitted

The Regional District of East Kootenay is currently seeking nominations for the 2026 electoral area Volunteer of the Year.

“Volunteers are the heart of our communities, and they are all around us. Is someone close to you making a positive change for those around them? These are the individuals or couples that the RDEK wants to celebrate,” says RDEK board Chair Rob Gay.

“Please take a moment and nominate a volunteer who lives in your electoral area, as honouring the people who make a difference in our region is so important.”

Nomination forms are now available and, as it has in past years, the regional district will be honouring one outstanding volunteer or couple from each of its six electoral areas.

Nominees must be residents of an electoral area (outside of incorporated municipalities) and make voluntary contributions to the spirit, culture or people of the community. Past winners have truly made a difference in people's lives.

Nomination forms can be filled out on engage.rdek.bc.ca/volunteer and can also be picked up at the Cranbrook and Columbia Valley RDEK offices.

The deadline for nominations is 12 p.m. on Monday, Feb. 2.

RDEK launches RTS project

Submitted

The Regional District of East Kootenay (RDEK) board of directors has requested that a report be prepared that presents potential options to optimize and modernize the rural transfer station system.

This is a brand new project, and no decisions have been made. The RDEK will be seeking feedback from the public on how the rural transfer stations are used and what services are important to those who use them. This project will support key goals from the Solid Waste Management Plan, including: encouraging waste diversion, reducing the amount of waste sent to landfill, and identifying opportunities to improve recycling and diversion services.

“Our rural transfer station system has remained largely unchanged since it was first estab-

lished over 20 years ago,” said Jamie Davies, general manager of operations. “Starting this project will give us an opportunity to take a look at all aspects of the system and optimize the transfer stations to better suit our residents."

There will be several opportunities throughout the process for the public to share feedback and provide input. A public survey launched on January 13, and a project page will be hosted at engage.rdek.bc.ca/RuralTransferStations.

Rural transfer stations are located throughout the Columbia Valley and central sub-regions. There are currently 15 rural transfer stations, all of which accept household garbage and provide Yellow Bins. Some locations also accept yard and garden waste, scrap metal, and wood waste.

The RDEK encourages all residents and users to take part and stay informed by following along at engage.rdek.bc.ca/RuralTransferStations.

VILLAGE OF RADIUM HOT SPRINGS Grant in Aid Applications

The Village of Radium Hot Springs is welcoming applications for grants in aid to non-profit community groups for endeavors, events or programs that benefit Radium Hot Springs in 2026. Applicants may contact finance@radiumhotsprings.ca to request a guide for the application.

The deadline for applications is February 9, 2026

'Skimo' racer falls short of Olympics

By Steve Hubrecht  steve@columbiavalleypioneer.com

Canadian competitive ski mountaineer Aaron Robson fell agonizingly short of his Olympic dream earlier this winter.

Aaron is currently based in Lander, Wyoming, but calls the Columbia Valley home, and on the first weekend in December at least four pairs of eyes in Invermere were glued to a livestream of the final World Cup ski mountaineering race in which athletes could qualify for the Milano Cortina Winter Games in February.

Those four pairs of eyes belonged to Aaron’s parents — Phil and Gill Robson, his sister Kelsey and his brother-in-law Andre (Aaron’s preschool aged niece Juniper may also have cast a few curious glances at her uncle on screen too). They watched online as Aaron and his race partner Emma Cook-Clarke yoyo-ed up and down a ski mountaineering course in Solitude, Utah, vying to become Olympians.

Competitive ski mountaineering – or ‘skimo’, as it is more often called — has existed for decades in Europe. It is essentially ski touring in competitive format. Athletes race against each other through a series of checkpoints arranged along a mountain (or mountains) in a way that alternately demands skinning (or boot packing) up, then skiing back down, then back up, then down, and so on.

Aaron became a ‘skimo’ racer two years

ago, nearly two decades after his first Olympic dream — as a runner — ended amidst injuries and setbacks. During those two decades he met and married his wife Gwen, became a teacher, then lived in Senegal in West Africa, before the couple settled in Lander and welcomed their daughter River. As his family and career grew, Aaron looked for ways to stay fit. He took up trail running, then nordic skiing, and eventually – at a friend’s suggestion — competitive ski mountaineering.

As it turns out, Aaron is pretty darn good at ‘skimo’, and over the course of the past year he teamed up with Cook-Clarke in an attempt to reach the 2026 Olympics in Italy in the mixedgender relay category.

The pair posted great results, and when the World Cup season wrapped up at the end of last winter, they were one point ahead of the U.S mixed gender team in the overall standings for the final outright qualifying spot.

In ‘skimo’ a single point is not much of a lead at all. The winning team of a given World Cup race usually gets 100 points, the second place team 80 points, the third place team 60 points, and so on in a descending scale all the way down to one point for a 30th place finish.

What this meant was that whichever of the U.S. and Canada teams placed better in the first World Cup race of this winter in Solitude would punch their tickets to Milano, Cortina.

Continued on page 9

Pursuant to Section 494 of the Local Government Act, public notice is hereby given that the District of Invermere is considering the Short-Term Rental Temporary Use Permits (STR-TUP) listed in the table below. Issuance of the permits will be considered by council or a delegated authority at the Invermere District office at 914 - 8th Avenue in Invermere, BC, at the corresponding date and time as listed below:

Consideration by DELEGATED AUTHORITY - JANUARY 29, 2026 at 10:00AM

All persons who believe they are affected by any of the Short-Term Rental Temporary Use Permits are encouraged to submit their concerns in writing to the Invermere office at 914 - 8th Avenue, Invermere, BC, or by email to dpcoordinator@invermere.net prior to Wednesday, January 28, 2026 at 12:00PM. All submissions should include your name, address, and contact information. All written submissions are public information pursuant to the Freedom of Information and Protection of Privacy Act. All submissions will form part of the public record. Questions about the disclosure of your personal information may be referred to the Corporate Officer at 250-342-9281.

For more information regarding the above applications contact the Invermere Planning Department at 250-342-9281 or by email at dpcoordinator@invermere.net or at the Invermere Office between the hours of 8:30 AM and 4:30 PM, Monday to Friday, excluding statutory holidays.

PO Box 339, 914 - 8th

Man only 23 seconds from qualifying

Continued from page 8

But even if the U.S. finished ahead of Aaron and Cook-Clarke, the Canadians still stood a chance of qualifying through the backdoor, if their results were fast enough to squeak past some of the European teams in the overall standings.

Aaron and Cook-Clarke raced their hearts out, but came in 10th place in Utah, while the U.S. team won and locked up the final outright Olympic qualifying spot. Heartbreakingly, the Canadian also missed out on ‘backdoor’ qualification by the narrowest of margins —  a mere 23 seconds.

Aaron told the Pioneer he knew beforehand that the race in Solitude would be tougher than any other so far. The U.S. team had cycled through several different female racers on their mixed-gender team the season before, but recently settled on top-notch skimo racer Anna Gibson.

So good is Gibson that the U.S. went from being a solid-but-unspectacular team to being one of the very best in the field.

“She was the biggest X-factor,” said Aaron. “Going in, we knew things would be very different from what we saw from the U.S. previously . . . but we tried to stay optimistic. We wanted to see how things played out.”

When the race began, Cook-

Clarke roared off the start line, completing her first leg of the relay at a blistering pace. She handed off the relay baton to Aaron with the Canadians in second place, about five seconds behind leaders Italy, but only five seconds ahead of a mob of other teams — the Germans, the Swiss and the U.S. These teams stayed together in a fairly tight pack as Aaron skinned up and down through the second leg.

Then disaster struck.

While transitioning from downhill to uphill skiing, both of Aaron’s skis blew off his boots.

“I put my skis back on, and I had to skin 20 or 30 metres to the (relay baton) hand off. I took off, but my skis just popped off — one, then the other,” he said. “I still don’t know exactly what happened. I can’t pinpoint anything I did wrong. My guess is that the pin on the side of my bindings was just pinching my boots instead of actually in the little divot it’s supposed to be in. It’s one of those weird things. It’s never happened to me before in a race.”

By the time Aaron passed the relay baton to Cook-Clarke for the third leg, the Canadians were about 10 to 20 seconds behind the U.S. When Cook-Clarke passed the baton again to Aaron for the fourth and final leg, the U.S. had stretched that lead to nearly one minute.

— barring a truly major mishap — the U.S. would beat Canada. Aaron’s attention shifted to the ‘backdoor’ qualifying option and he poured every ounce of energy he could muster into the race.

“I put everything I had out there,” he told the Pioneer.

His fourth and final lap was his fastest ever in a relay skimo race, but in the end Canada lost out on the backdoor qualification to Poland by 23 seconds.

At that point it was obvious that

HEY BABY!

Did you welcome a new addition to your family in 2025?

Show off your little bundle of joy in the January 22nd edition of The Columbia Valley Pioneer!

Simply submit a high resolution photo of your baby (or grandbaby, niece, nephew...) along with the child’s full name, date of birth, weight at birth, parents’ names and a fun fact about the child.

The cost is $35 +tax.

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250-341-6299 x102

advertising@columbiavalleypioneer.com

Deadline for submissions is Friday, January 16

“It’s a pretty gutting feeling,” Aaron conceded. “Over the course of a half hour race, 23 seconds really isn’t that much.”

He admitted “all the ‘what ifs’ do play through your head. Not just the race itself (in Solitude), but the injuries and sicknesses Emma and I both dealt with in the months leading up to the race. There really is an endless list of stuff that could’ve made a difference. The part that hits the hardest is that this feels very final. I will be 43 (years old) in the next Olympic

cycle. That’s old. It’s not impossible for me to try again, but it’s a long way off, and it would be really hard.”

When Aaron spoke with the Pioneer by Zoom just before the Christmas holidays, he was riding a stationary bike. “I’m pedalling right now, so I don’t go completely crazy,” he said with a rueful laugh.

But this exercise is several steps down from how hard Aaron trained throughout his Olympic bid. He suffered a meniscus tear last year, and had surgery to fix it, but his training regime didn’t allow him to rest his knee as much as he should.

“So I’ll take some time now and let it (his knee) heal completely. Once that’s sorted, I do want to race again. I’m not sure if that’ll be later this season or next season. But I don’t want that race (in Solitude) to be my last ever ski mountaineering race,” said Aaron. “I am really grateful for the experience I’ve had, even though it didn’t end how I wanted.

Continued on page 13

STAGELINE 75 STAGEPARTNERSHIP OPPORTUNITY

The District of Invermere is inviting a local nonprofit organization to become the official operator of the Stageline 75 mobile stage a community asset featured at beloved local events including the Snowflake Festival, Locals Live in Pothole Park, Bull Riding in the Rockies, and Canal Flats Fest.

As the stage owner, the District will continue to handle inspections, safety requirements, and long term maintenance. Four District staff are certified operators, and new operator training will be provided to the selected nonprofit.

What the Nonprofit Will Do

• Carry liability insurance for events

• Safely transport the stage to and from event sites

• Manage setup, takedown, and on site operation

• Retain all stage rental revenue to support your programs

Sponsorship opportunities Businesses and organizations can also support the Locals Live summer concert series through sponsorship, helping sustain vibrant live entertainment in the community.

Why This Matters

This is a rare chance for a nonprofit to help shape local cultural experiences, keep a valued community asset active, and build revenue for its own mission. If a suitable operator or sponsor is not found, the District may consider selling the stage, making community partnership even more important.

Interested parties are invited to submit inquiries or expressions of interest to:

Deadline: January 29, 2026

Contact: Kindry Dalke corporateservices@invermere.net | 250

COLUMBIA VALLEY CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

OUT OF OFFICE…

CVCC - Looking Forward

As we settle into the comfortable coziness of this time of year, while taking time to reflect, we also look forward to the brightness and light that will come for the next year. Things move forward, and the Columbia Valley Chamber of Commerce is looking ahead to a new year of serving the business community from Spillimacheen to Canal Flats!

Our pillars of membership remain our foundation for how we serve each one of our unique members – we recognize that every member business has their own challenges and successes and we are always striving to celebrate and provide support where we can.

Health Benefits

Some things are too good to change – the Chambers Plan Employee Benefits is still Canada’s #1 plan for group benefits and is customizable for each members specific needs.

Membership Privileges

This is the pillar that most members use in the most different ways – with everything from

corporate discounts to facility and advertising discounts to Visitor centre racking (come refill your brochures and say hi!), the Chamber can help in so many ways! From our newsletters where you can offer member deals or let our wider network know about your next event; this year we hope to create more tailored promotional e-blasts for our Champion tier members

Networking & Education

The continuing success of Chamber Connections is exciting – thank you to everyone who attended any of our casual networking events throughout the year (with a very special mentions of those who attended enough to earn their very own custom nametags – you know who you are)! The Chamber is continuing to plan these events on the second Tuesday of every month, but this year they are hoping to add an activities or service to each venue, to feature as many members as possible. If you are interested in hosting or partnering, please contact Deanna at communications@cvchamber. ca. The next Chamber Connections will be January 13 at the Invermere McDonalds with Karaoke! Also

stay tuned for exciting Lunch & Learn and other educational partnerships throughout the year.

Advocacy

The Columbia Valley Chamber continues to work behind the scenes, maintaining relationships with regional partners, government representatives and key stakeholders regionally and beyond – we have formed a Policy and Advocacy Committee and will soon have a dedicated space on our website to celebrate Advocacy throughout the Chamber’s spheres of influence.

The New Year is full of promise and excitement, steadfastness and change, and the Columbia Valley Chamber of Commerce is thrilled to support their members, and the larger business community throughout the Valley! Here is to an amazing 2026!

BEYOND THE BLUE LINE

Rockies cruise past Coyotes at home

Submitted by Columbia Valley Rockies

The Columbia Valley Rockies fed off a raucous crowd of 437 at Eddie Mountain Memorial Arena on Saturday, Jan. 10, exploding out of the gates and never looking back in a convincing 4-1 win over the Osoyoos Coyotes.

It took just 25 seconds for the Rockies to ignite the building. Evin Bossel wasted no time snapping home the opener off crisp feeds from Parker Cutts and Carter Hensch, sending the home crowd into an early frenzy.

The momentum barely had time to settle before it surged again. Just over a minute later

Chance Cole buried a beauty set up by Cole King and Trae Lees, and suddenly the Coyotes were on their heels with the Rockies flying.

The opening frame ended 2-0 but the scoreboard hardly captured the tone of the period. Columbia Valley dictated pace, won races and set the standard early.

The pressure continued in the second period. Lachlan Hanton kept his hot stick rolling finishing a slick passing play from Ethan Cerone and Peter Godley to make it 3-0. Moments later Carter Hensch found twine with help from Cutts and Karson Schick, pushing the lead to 4-0 and bringing the crowd to its feet once again.

The Rockies locked things down from there, playing smart structured hockey and getting strong goaltending from Ryan Tamelin who was calm and composed as the Coyotes pushed back late.

Osoyoos would manage a lone goal but the outcome was never in doubt as the Rockies skated off with two massive points in the playoff race.

After the game, head coach Tucker Braund reflected on a week filled with emotion and change. “We had a busy and stressful week with the trade deadline,” Braund said. “Moving Johnny Lozeman and Isaac Sommer, they were great players for the Rockies. But we were able to acquire two very solid defensemen in Luke Lawford and Danil Timchuk who are excited to be here and help us push towards the playoffs.”

Braund praised his group’s mindset and execution. “The boys were very excited for this one right from the get go. We’ve been talking about good starts and jumping on teams early and lately we’ve been doing that. I thought we strung together a full 60 minutes of good hockey which we’ve been preaching.”

He also highlighted the team’s defensive commitment and goaltending. “Our goaltending was very good and the guys played strong in front of Ryan to help him get the win.”

“We've been talking about good starts and jumping on teams early and lately we've been doing that.”

- Rockies head coach Tucker Braund

One player continuing to make an immediate impact is Lachlan Hanton who now has three goals in four games since joining the club. “Lachlan is turning into a really good player for us,” Braund said.

“He’s a real leader on the bench, has great character and will be a leader going forward. I’ve been very happy with our additions; Siemens, Hanton, Lawford and Timchuk have all been great since joining the team.”

With momentum building the Rockies now head out on the road for a crucial two-week stretch playing five games away from home as they look to gain ground in the playoff chase.

The next home game will be Tuesday, Jan. 27 when the Rockies return to Eddie Mountain Memorial Arena to host the Kimberley Dynamiters at 7 p.m.

Fans can expect another high energy night. as the Columbia Valley Rockies cllontinue their push toward the postseason.

Ski mountaineer hopeful

Continued from page 9

Not everyone gets this kind of opportunity.”  Aaron added that in four years’ time, if — as he suspects — he’s not competing to qualify for the 2030 Winter Games, he wants to be part of Skimo Canada in a different capacity.

“I saw firsthand what (Olympic) qualifying is like. I’ve got a good sense of where the pitfalls are, and I have some ideas to help build a better support system to get Canada skimo athletes to the Games,” he said.

Notice to

Readers

Aaron’s family in Invermere say they understand his disappointment, but nevertheless are impressed that he came so close to the Olympics.

“It’s very mixed emotions. You do feel the heartbreak for him, knowing how much it meant to him, and how he almost got it. But also I feel pride — a lot of pride — to see him go so far in a new sport,” his sister Kelsey told the Pioneer.  Kelsey has a young family, just like Aaron, which underscored to her just how tricky it is to balance being a good parent with finding enough time to pursue personal and athletic passions to the degree Aaron does.

“We’re obviously sorry he didn’t make it. We know he was devastated,” said Aaron’s dad Phil. “It was two years of sacrifice and he worked very, very hard for it.”

“But it was great to see him compete, to do as well as he did,” added his mom Gill.

CLASSIFIED ADVERTISING

ANNOUNCEMENTS

BROKERAGE! NEW TEAM!

GERRY TAFT

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.

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

ACCOMMODATIONS WANTED

Looking for long term 2-bedroom rental for midFebruary. Furnished or unfurnished. Preferably Invermere, Wilmer, Windermere.

I am a non-smoker, employed, clean, quiet male. References on request. Phone 250-342-1657

Six foot tall three-piece wired Christmas tree with stand. Call 250-342-6149 to pick up.

SERVICES

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

Stick

GENERAL MEETING

Edgewater Community Hall

7:00 pm Friday, February 20, 2026

• Membership Renewal

• Report on Society Activities

• Bursary Report

• Financials

• 15th Annual Festival Plans

• Election of Directors

• Coffee/Tea Dessert

• Music & Mingle

Cheers to Val Jenner. for the kindness and care you show to me. You are a wonderful person.

Cheers to Steve and Audrey at The Local View for the great job you do on my annual Wintermas card. Service is top notch as usual.

Cheers to Alicia at Veritas Integrative Health. You are always so kind and professional whenever I have questions.

Heartfelt cheers to Dr. Schaffer, Dr. Mannheimer, and the incredible nurses at Invermere Hospital whose warmth and compassion brought comfort to Fern and peace to our family.

Cheers to Darla N. for your patience and understanding.

FOR SALE

Tiny house on wheels

$14,000 obo. Beautiful little cabin on wheels. 20' long 8' wide, 12' height. Solid and cozy. Built for mountain winters. Has an electrical panel. Easily plugs in. No running water. Email stephanieoconnor@ gmail.com or call/text Ian at 250-688-9565 for photos and additional info.

Help available Compassionate care for Columbia Valley residents

Have you or someone you love recently received a life-changing diagnosis? If so, and you are seeking support or simply someone to talk to, a new program launching in the Columbia Valley may provide the assistance and connection you need.

As part of a UBC Okanagan study project focused on developing more compassionate communities, a team of community members reviewed the supports available in the Valley for individuals seeking emotional assistance immediately following a life-changing diagnosis and identified a gap in existing services.

Team Lead Michele Neider noted that the W.E.C.A.R.E. program has the potential to meaningfully enhance the well-being of individuals navigating the uncertainty that can accompany a decline in health. “A diagnosis can be an isolating and overwhelming experience, and we recognized that with some thoughtful adjustments, the support already offered through NavCare could be extended to address a need that was not fully being met,” she explained.

Armed with this knowledge and supported by a modest budget provided through the study, the team developed a new program designed to address this unmet need.

W.E.C.A.R.E.—a non-medical, non-counselling initiative—stands for Welcome, Everyone, Connecting, Advocating, Resourcing, and Engaging and is delivered entirely by specially trained local volunteers.

If this program sounds like something you would like to be involved in—either as a recipient of support or as a volunteer providing it—a series of community presentations will be held throughout the Valley over the next two months. Sessions are planned in Canal Flats, Fairmont Hot Springs, Windermere, Invermere, Radium Hot Springs, and Edgewater, ensuring the information is accessible regardless of where you live.

Thursday, February 5th at 6:00pm

Windermere Community Hall

Invermere

Tuesday, February 10th at 12:00pm

Invermere Seniors' Hall

Fairmont Hot Springs

Thursday, February 12th at 6:00pm

Lions' Centre

Radium Hot Springs

Tuesday, February 17th at 6:00pm

Radium Brewery

Edgewater

Wednesday, March 4th at 6:00pm

Edgewater Legion Hall PLEASE

a

Do you have questions? Concerns? Unsure where to go from here? Contact us

Because help means everything at a time like this.

Peaks Storage Solutions Location: 1308 Industrial Rd. #1, Invermere, B.C. Notice is hereby given under the Warehouseman’s Lien Act of the auction of a CanaVenture boat and trailer in stall number 340, rented to Channing Plochl, to be held on https:// bid13.com on Thursday, cont...

January 29th, 2026. Terms: Debit or credit card only. Cash deposit required. See website for full terms and conditions.

Peaks Storage Solutions Location: 1311 Industrial Rd. #3, Invermere, B.C. Notice is hereby given under the cont...

Warehouseman’s Lien Act of the auction of the contents of units 175, 185, and 207, occupied by Mary E. O’Brien, to be held on https://bid13. com on Thursday, January 29th, 2026. Terms: Debit or credit card only. Cash deposit required. See website for full terms and conditions.

Peaks Storage Solutions Location: 1311 Industrial Rd. #3, Invermere, B.C. Notice is hereby given under the Warehouseman’s Lien Act of the auction of the contents of unit 194, occupied by Rebecca Barnaby, to be held on https://bid13.com on Thursday, January 29th, 2026. cont...

Terms: Debit or credit card only. Cash deposit required. See website for full terms and conditions. of the auction of the contents of unit 60, rented to Rob Ronan, to be held on https://bid13.com on Thursday, January 29th, 2026. Terms: Debit or credit card only. Cash deposit required. See website for full terms and conditions.

Peaks Storage Solutions Location: 400 Laurier St., Invermere, B.C. Notice is hereby given under the Warehouseman’s Lien Act cont...

Pursuant to Section 494 of the Local Government Act, public notice is hereby given that the RDEK is considering the Short-Term Rental Temporary Use Permits (STR TUP) listed in the table below. Issuance of the permits will be considered by the delegated staff person at 10:00 am on January 28, 2026 at the RDEK office at 19 - 24 Ave S in Cranbrook, BC.

125-25 1889 Greywolf Drive (Panorama )

All persons who believe they are affected by any of the Short-Term Rental Temporary Use Permits are encouraged to submit their concerns in writing to the RDEK office at 19 - 24 Ave S. Cranbrook, BC or by email to planningdept@rdek.bc.ca prior to 4:30 pm on January 22, 2026. All submissions should include your name and address. Please be advised that any written submissions will become part of the public record. The permit is available for viewing by email request, on the RDEK website (www.rdek.bc.ca/meetings_events/publichearings) or at the RDEK Offices between the hours of 8:30 am and 4:30 pm, Monday to Friday, excluding statutory holidays. To search for properties online, visit: www.rdek.bc.ca/departments/mapping. For more information contact planning department staff at planningdept@rdek.bc.ca or 250-489-2791. All written submissions are public information pursuant to the Freedom of Information and Protection of Privacy Act. All submissions will form part of the public record. Questions about the disclosure of your personal information may be referred to the Corporate Officer at 250-489-2791 or 1-888-478-7335.

RURAL TRANSFER STATION OPTIMIZATION PROJECT

The RDEK Board of Directors has requested that a report be prepared that presents potential options to optimize and modernize our rural transfer station system. In order to effectively do that, all perspectives need to be considered. So we will be seeking feedback from the public on how the rural transfer stations are used and what services are important to those who use them.

The survey will remain open until 4:30

ONLINE: Throughout the process we will be updating a public engagement page at engage.rdek.bc.ca/RuralTransferStations

This page will contain related documents, background information, a Questions and Answers portal as well as a map that shows where the rural transfer stations are located.

EMAIL UPDATES: Regular email updates will be sent out throughout the process with information on progress as well as to highlight ways that the public can engage and provisde feeback. Please sign up for the email list to stay up-to-date at: www.rdek.bc.ca/EmailGroup

OFFICE COORDINATOR

Job Type: Full Time

Location: Invermere, BC

Schedule: Monday to Friday, 8:30 am to 4:00 pm

Location: Office Based

Application deadline: January 21, 2026

Job Description

Department: Kenpesq’t Holdings Ltd

Reporting to: General Manager

Hourly: $26 to $32

Start date: January 22, 2026

Kenpesq’t is seeking a highly organized, detail-oriented Office Coordinator to join our dynamic, growth-focused team. This role is primarily focused on financial and accounting operations, while also supporting essential office administration functions. The Office Coordinator is central to ensuring accurate and timely financial management, effective communication with customers, vendors, stakeholders, leadership, and the Board of Directors, and the smooth day-to-day operation of the office.

Key Responsibilities

Manage accounts payable (AP) and accounts receivable (AR) in Sage Intact, ensuring accurate invoice coding, processing, payment tracking, reporting, and reconciliations.

Perform bank reconciliations and credit card reconciliations regularly.

Monitor bank accounts for debits, credits, and discrepancies.

Collaborate with accountants to ensure books are accurate and up to date.

Prepare, file, and remit GST returns and ensure timely and accurate payment in accordance with regulatory requirements.

Prepare, file, and remit WCB (WorkSafeBC) reports and payments, ensuring compliance with applicable legislation and reporting timelines.

Prepare financial reports and assist with reporting to managers and the Board of Directors.

Set up and maintain vendor accounts and ensure vendor records are accurate and current.

Assist in budget planning and financial reporting.

Serve as the primary point of contact for business inquiries and internal communication.

Coordinate meetings, conferences, events, appointments, and travel arrangements.

Maintain secure and organized storage of digital and physical documents.

• Prepare and distribute meeting agendas, minutes, reports, presentations, and other documents.

Support document production, template development, formatting, and final quality assurance edits.

Administer corporate safety programs and coordinate employee training sessions.

Manage digital platforms, including Linkedin, social media, and website content.

Manage incoming and outgoing mail and packages.

Conduct research, gather information, and prepare memos and briefs as needed.

Ensure proactive management of office supplies and equipment.

• Perform other duties as assigned to support the team and office operations.

Identify opportunities to use Al and other digital tools to automate routine tasks, improve reporting, and streamline office and accounting processes.

Experience

Minimum 5 years of relevant administrative experience, preferably in forestry, civil engineering, project management, government, or construction sectors.

Certificate or diploma in business administration or related field preferred.

Strong experience with accounts payable, accounts receivable, reconciliations, and invoice coding.

Expertise in Sage Intacct or similar accounting software.

• Proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite; familiarity with SharePoint, including lists and tools. Indigenous engagement experience or cultural sensitivity is an asset.

Skills & Abilities

Strong communication skills, both written and verbal.

Friendly and professional attitude with strong interpersonal skills.

High level of discretion and ability to handle sensitive information.

Ability to work independently in a fast-paced environment with changing priorities.

• Excellent organizational and time management skills.

Strong attention to detail

Kenpesq’t offers a wide variety of perks, including: 35 hour work week.

Employer-matched pension plan after three months.

Extensive health and benefits package.

Employee training opportunities.

About Kenpesq’t

Kenpesq’t is the Shuswap Band’s economic development corporation. Headquartered in Invermere, BC, we primarily focus on forestry operations, civil and earthworks construction projects, archaeology, and other industrial and environmental services. We conduct our operations safely and recognize that our people are our core asset. Growing economic opportunities through the expansion of our internal capacity and capabilities are key to our success. We are committed to balancing economic growth with responsible business. Our values include transparency, stewardship, and cultural heritage. We communicate openly, treat others with compassion and respect, and place emphasis on fairness and equity.

Information related to the application process:

Please submit your resume and cover letter via email to admin@kenpesqt.ca with the subject line “Kenpesq’t Office Coordinator Application - [Applicant Name]”, or in person at the Kenpesq’t office building located at 3A - 492 Arrow Road, Invermere, BC VOA 1K2

This posting may remain open until a qualified candidate has been hired. Kenpesq’t hires based on merit and is committed to employment equity. We value diversity and welcome all qualified candidates to apply. Employment and promotion of an Indigenous person or Shuswap Band member will be administered in a fair and reasonable manner and is consistent with the Canadian Human Rights Commission Policy on Aboriginal Employment Preference.

Columbia Valley Churches

LAKE WINDERMERE ALLIANCE CHURCH

While you are with us, you are always welcome to join us. Sunday at 10:30 am 326 10th Avenue, Invermere 250-342-9535 | www.lwac.ca

WINDERMERE VALLEY

SHARED MINISTRY (Anglican - United) 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

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