Columbia Valley Pioneer - July 2, 2026

Radium rental housing project

By Steve Hubrecht  steve@columbiavalleypioneer.com

Planning consultants recently gave Radium Hot Springs council an update on the proposed Ridge Road purpose-built rental housing project.

The project will be constructed in north Radium on Ridge Road, on four acres of land purchased by the Village of Radium Hot Springs in 2025, and is an attempt by municipal officials to help alleviate the ongoing and acute shortage of affordable housing and long-term rental housing in Radium.

The first glimpse of what the Ridge Road project may look like came this past March, when representatives of 2B Developments outlined their vision for 48 units arranged in three buildings.

“I don't think we've solved it. They're (the critics) going to describe it as putting lipstick on.”

Radium mayor Mike Gray

Radium residents then gave feedback on this concept. During the June 22 council meeting, 2B Developments senior project manager Nick Lorraway presented an updated plan, with multiple tweaks to address concerns raised during that public feedback.

Some of the major changes include adding more parking stalls (seven more within the development parking lot and 20 more on the proposed road, for a total of 93 parking stalls both onsite and offsite); adding dividing screens (made from wooden slats) on the covered porch to give residents more privacy; and adding paneling to the front of the building and removing some posts to make the building look less like a motel or hotel.

In previous discussions consultants seemed to favour having a municipal corporation be the official owner of the project (to keep it off the village’s books), but during the June 22 meeting they leaned more toward having the Columbia Valley Housing Society (CVHS) lead the project and lease the land from

the village. Lorraway explained that having the CVHS in charge could make it easier to secure grants and other funding for the project.

Councillors were generally happy with the tweaks, but most of them wanted to adjust the look of the buildings even more.

“I think it looks better than it did, but it’s a cosmetic change rather than a fundamental change,” said Radium mayor Mike Gray, wondering “can we do more to change the curbside appeal ... I don’t think we’ve solved it. They’re (project critics) going to describe it as putting lipstick on.”

Lorraway defended the design, saying the planned wraparound balcony on the Ridge Road project was in fact partly “inspired by being in Radium ... I think most residents (of the project) would find it a feature and not a ‘bug’.”

The senior project manager noted that he and other planners had seen and liked similarly styled porches or balconies on inns and homes in the village during their stays there. But he did concede that the plans can be tweaked further.

“I like the project, I want it to go forward. But I don’t want the community not to like the project because of how the front looks,” maintained Gray, adding it’s worthwhile to spend a few thousand extra dollars on design work if that means more community buy-in for the Ridge Road project.

During discussion on how to pay for the project, Lorraway replied that unfortunately the provincial government has cut back on its housing funding in recent months, but that, on the other hand, with the Ridge Road project “we have a really good argument” to help secure grants.

At the end of discussion, councillors voted to spend $320,000 to complete the rest of the design process, including architectural and engineering work.

Lorraway said he hopes to apply for a development permit in July, and then a building permit by the end of summer.

“We do want to move at a reasonable pace,” he said. “Overall we feel we’ve had some good momentum with (potential) funders. We want to keep that.”

Kade in 'Country' final

By Steve Hubrecht  steve@columbiavalleypioneer.com

A Radium Hot Springs country musician has a shot at the opportunity of a lifetime — she just needs a little help from Columbia Valley residents to vote her to success.

Emma Kade is a top-three finalist in the Country Rising Canadian music talent search contest, run by beverage company Cottage Springs and record company Starseed Entertainment.

The contest winner is determined through online voting, which runs until July 20.

Kade has been playing music for more than a decade, and has already had some big highlights, having opened for country star Dean Brody in Fort Steele and having also played the Brett Brett Boat Concert with the famous Brett Kissel in Windermere. But even with those achievements under her belt, winning Country Rising would radically change Kade’s career, giving her an opening slot on a nation-wide tour for an established Starseed artist, as well as a recording contract and an artist development package.

“It’s super exciting. I’ve been trying to do something like this for a while,” Kade told the Pioneer

Kade applied to be part of Country Rising last year but didn’t make the cut. She applied again this spring, didn’t hear back and so assumed she’d missed out again. In fact, she’d almost forgotten about it altogether when contest organizers reached out about a month ago and told her that among the hundreds of applicants from across Canada, she was one of three finalists.

The other two finalists in this year’s edition of Country Rising are Carson Janik from Tecumseh, Ontario and Paige Penney from St. John’s, Newfoundland.

Both those musicians already have fairly strong social media presences and more recognition compared with Kade, but that does not deter her one bit.

“I may be starting out smaller than them, but that’s fine. I am a small-town, homegrown artist. I’m representing not just Invermere and the Kootenay region, but all of western Canada in this contest, and I’m going to do my best. It’s a big honour ... it’s a huge opportunity and this could really change my life,” said Kade.

Visit www.cottagesprings.ca/countryrising to vote for Kade. You can vote once each day until July 20.

New Pinto Ridge homes now selling

Columbia Valley Pioneer staff

TRC Projects Ltd. is now selling homes in its Pinto Ridge development in Radium Hot Springs.

Pinto Ridge includes three and four-bedroom walk-out bungalows and two-storey bare land strata homes in north Radium, ranging in size from 1,800 to 2,300 square feet, and ranging in price from $499,000 to $599,000 + GST.

The homes are located on the north side of Radium, within easy walking distance of downtown, but the neighbourhood will be quiet and peaceful with a private oneway road.

“We worked a lot with the Village of Radium Hot Springs to nail down a really good site plan,” explained TRC owner Kevin Blackwell. “Radium is a great place to live, and it gets better all the time, with new businesses and restaurants opening and an amazing outdoor lifestyle.”

The 23 modern energy-efficient homes come with heat pumps, oversized patios, single and double garages, fenced private backyards that adjoin a village park, and ICF foundations and party walls. Inside they come with a nine-foot main floor ceiling height, full stainless steel appliance package, quartz countertops, Woodcraft kitchen cabinets, electric fireplace, and vinyl plank flooring.

Each home has outstanding views, with west facing patios, backing onto the newly created village park and the energy-efficient design means homeowners will save plenty on their home’s energy and operating costs in the long term.

Strata fees are modest at only $52 per month for street and sidewalk maintenance.

The bare land strata setup gives homeowners leeway to make their properties their own, including private fenced backyards, but with limited future strata expenses with only

sidewalk and road snow removal.

“We’re excited to start selling,” said Blackwell. “We’ve only just started (selling) and we’re already seeing interest.”

The homes will appeal to a wide demographic of people, from fulltime residents to recreational homeowners to first-time homeowners.

In recent past projects in the Columbia Valley, Blackwell has seen some homeowners move from places such as Canmore and Calgary to live here. He won’t be surprised if that happens with Pinto Ridge too.

“Radium has so much to offer, but it’s still affordable compared with many other mountain towns. I think people are starting to realize that, so now is the best time for the best prices,” he said.

Pinto Ridge got underway this April, with servicing for lots and foundations. Homes will be ready for owners to take possession in winter 2026 and will have possessions until fall of 2027.

TRC was formed in 2014 in Calgary, and started also developing new homes in Radium in 2016. The company focuses on only one project at a time, and takes pride in its forming long-term working relationships with high-quality local contractors, including highly regarded Kris Newman Building Construction.

“Kris is the most experienced builder in the valley, and he’s very hands-on. He’s on site every day. There is no better person or builder to be working with in the Columbia Valley,” said Blackwell.

TRC Projects and Kris Newman have built 58 homes in the Columbia Valley since 2017 with a proven track record for completing projects on time and budget. If you are looking for a new home you should check them out.

Visit trcprojects.co/pinto-ridge/ to find out more.

Goodbye grads

With a sigh of relief, and no doubt some trepidation, graduates are leaving David Thompson Secondary School after four years of growing (and ‘smartening’) up.

Some will have their lives mapped out like Britannica’s World Atlas, while others will be thinking, ‘what the hell am I going to do now?’ Fear not, there is plenty of time to decide, and about a million options. Great, that narrows it down a lot (LOL).

Of course, the first bit of advice that most people would give is do what makes you happy. You can reach for the stars or settle for a hole in the ground. Happiness hides in strange places.

If you want to create a new social media platform, make it safe and anxiety-free for youth. If you want to become rich beyond your dreams, don’t do it at the expense of others; give them a hand up. If you want to work in custodial services, be the best damn custodian there is. A diplomat? The world definitely needs them right now. A health care professional? The more the better. Mental health services? You may need a psychologist yourself to keep up with the demand. Want to reduce global warming? You just might save the planet (everyone knows it needs saving).

Every grad should have the following checklist as they muddle their way through life:

• You only have one, so make it count; there is no time machine to take you back.

• Beware of unconscious racism; it can creep up on you like a disease.

• Practise optimism every day to keep negativity at bay.

• If you don’t put your phone down, life will pass you by.

• Failing is part of life; that’s how we learn.

• Don’t compare yourself to others; you’re just wasting precious time.

• Looks are only skin deep.

• You don’t have to change the world, but you can make it better.

• Feel free to wait for life, but it won’t wait for you.

• Always remember: no matter the struggle, you are never alone.

Okay, grads, now it’s time to spread those wings and see where you land. It’s okay to be unsure because the world’s greatest leaders felt the same way when they finished school.

Lyonel Doherty, editor

OPINION

Reader challenges group

You are welcome to differ and rebut opinions of others, but mind not to misquote, falsify, biasly select, misinform, and manipulate conversations.

Hopefully no one is fooled by power boaters' lobbying nonsense in denying wake surf boats damage shallow lakes. They give no scientific evidence contrary to professional unbiased studies [UBC and investigations in eastern USA]. View the negative findings on a plaque at the Athalmer boat launch, endorsed by the District of Invermere.

There is a graphic sign at this same launch, endorsed by the RDEK and District of Invermere, showing Windermere Lake depths [Columbia Lake is shallower]. I am correct, the maximum in a small percentage area is six metres [shallower in summer]. Average depth is at most three metres, given that a half length of this lake from the south end to Windermere is only between one-quarter [marsh] to three metres deep. The only way the power boating association claims there are eight metre depths must be due to wake surf boats churning eight to 10 metre deep trenches damaging soft sediment lake bottoms.

mediately restricting terrible wake surf boat damage in shallow lakes. They’ve all passed around this responsibility for 10-plus years; slothlike and shameful.

Honestly, the name should be ‘Columbia Valley Power Boating Association’ because that is their interest; not canoes, kayakers, windsurfers, sailboats, and swimmers, which they say all have environmental impacts comparing them to power boats. Nice try.

Power boaters on these two lakes are at most only five per cent of visitors and locals. Still they want appreciation for saying other activities can safely use the lakes power boat free when they don’t want, for eight months of winter, lousy weather days, and not on nice summer days, especially weekends. So generous.

Show legal permits for infrastructure of hundreds of private home docks, retaining walls, and subsequent yard extensions where once was lake, not likely.

The RDEK, municipal, provincial, and federal politicians are all feigning impotence in not im-

Various unnecessary, very harmful activities should cease immediately. CVPB Association could respect the definition of unselfish ecological altruism.

Bill Ark, Invermere

Conservation one shoreline at a time

By Megan Jamison Kootenay Conservation Program

Georgia Peck, Lakes Program Manager with Living Lakes Canada, is the third generation in her family to work in conservation. Inspired by her ornithologist grandfather and father, who dedicated his career to shorebird conservation, she found her own passion in aquatic ecosystems.

“I grew up spending a lot of time on shorelines with my dad,” she laughs. “He was often looking up, and I was far more interested in what was down at our feet: the snakes, frogs and fish. I always had such a love for water.”

After earning a degree in conservation biology from Trent University, Peck moved to B.C. and joined Living Lakes in 2020.

Today, she manages the Foreshore Integrated Management Planning program (FIMP), a shoreline assessment methodology used by environmental professionals across the province. Between 2019 and 2023, Living Lakes partnered with Fisheries and Oceans Canada to update and test FIMP on 10 high-priority Columbia Basin lakes.

Most of the lakes had been surveyed 10 to 15 years earlier, allowing researchers to assess shoreline changes over time. “The change in foreshore dynamics really does act as a cumulative impact assessment tool,” Peck explains. “This data is then used by local communities including First Nations.”

The project also revealed oppor-

tunities to strengthen Indigenous participation in shoreline assessments.

“This gap was an opportunity for FIMP to be more inclusive and holistic by including cultural assessments,” she explains. “By ensuring that Indigenous knowledge is interwoven into FIMP, by co-leading these surveys with First Nations, we’re improving the likelihood that decision-making thereafter will be far more inclusive than it was in the past.”

The lessons learned in the Kootenays led to a broader collaborative project co-facilitated with Sylix Okanagan Nations. Peck also co-authored the ‘Local Indigenous Knowledge and Values Framework’ with colleagues Claire Armstrong and Brian Holmes of the Upper Nicola Band.

Peck says collaboration remains central to her work.

“It’s so important to collaborate and hear everyone’s views. I think trust is an essential pillar in environmental work. It is always worth the time and effort to meet in person on the land and on the water, to have that boots on the ground connection with the work we’re doing and with the individuals that it’s influencing or impacting.”

Despite her enthusiasm, Peck acknowledges the emotional challenges of environmental work.

“I’m sure this is the case for all environmental work, but for water specifically it can sometimes feel so discouraging. I remember attending the United Nations water confer-

Clarification

Last week the Pioneer reported that local high school student Max LeBlanc raised a cumulative total of $57,000 through years of fundraising to find a cure for Type 1 Diabetes. In fact he has raised $37,000.

ence in 2023 in New York City, and ending up feeling the most negative I’ve ever felt about the work that we do; it was heartbreaking to hear about water issues that are experienced around the world.”

She says reconnecting with colleagues and conservation partners in the Kootenays, including through Kootenay Conservation Program (KCP) gatherings, helps restore her sense of hope and purpose.

“There’s such a sense of connection and closeness within KCP’s

partnership, and reconnecting with people always reminds me why I do this work. There’s hope that shines through in KCP gatherings and reminds us why we put in the time and effort to care for this beautiful place we all call home. It’s inspiring to hear about the projects people are leading and the work they’re dedicating their lives to. It’s an honour to be part of KCP—it’s really special to share both the challenges and the wins we experience together.”

Georgia Peck supporting invasive yellow perch removal efforts with the Upper Nicola Band on Douglas Lake.

PHOTO SUBMITTED

Experience mountain living at its finest located just minutes from Columbia Lake and surrounded by walking and ATV trails. Designed with modern comfort in mind, this home features soaring 11-foot ceilings, a chef-inspired kitchen, and oversized windows that flood the space with natural light while showcasing breathtaking mountain views. The fully finished walk-out basement offers excellent potential for a secondary suite, making it ideal for extended family or future rental income.

COLUMBIA VALLEY CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

OUT OF OFFICE…

Chamber Members Spotlight Online Auction

Ok, real talk. I love me an auction. I have a ton of fun checking out what people donate and I love seeing what people love enough to bid on, and I’m a sucker for the competition of it all! Bonus points if I can bid from my bed! This July brings the second annual Chamber Members Spotlight Online Auction; bidding opens on Friday July 10th and will continue until July 24th, with a display of auction items at Valley Appreciation Day on Saturday July 18th. Bid early, bid often and set up outbid text notifications!

We have an incredible array of businesses that are members of the Columbia Valley Chamber of Commerce, and we are excited to share some of what they do – we hope that you will find not only something new and surprising in the goods and services offered in this online auction, but also some familiar favourites!

You can see the whole lot (ha! See what I did there? Auction joke!) at www.32auctions. com/memberspotlight2026 and keep an eye out for later additions; we will be putting items up as we receive them (so if you are a little late to the game, no worries, we still got you). Even though the auction doesn’t open until the 10th, you can watch and plot and see what’s new day to day until then. Feel free to set up your account early so that you

are ready to bid – as last year, you can set outbidding notifications, and there will be extended bidding so that you have as many chances as possible to get that special thing you love!

We have a wide variety of goods and services already posted, everything from trips to gift certificates for your favourite businesses to services you might not have known about! As well as the online auction, we will be posting auction items on social media, and you can even take a look in person at Valley Appreciation Day!

The Chamber of Commerce will have a table at Valley Appreciation Day (on Saturday July 18th) from 9am to 1pm where we will have the auction items on display IRL – come down, take a look, and see what incredible offerings our members have for you to peruse! With this huge selection of goods and services, you will be sure to find something that tickles your fancy!

-Deanna Berrington Communications and Events Coordinator

Thursday July 2

10:00 -11:00am - Seniors Fitness Columbia Valley Centre. Doors open 9:30 for warm-ups and indoor walking $2 drop-in. Please note: classes may be moved to Invermere Seniors Hall when the Columbia Valley Centre is booked for larger events.

1:30pm - Floor Curling at the Invermere Seniors Hall.

6:45pm - Texas Hold'em Poker Invermere Legion, $30 buy-in.

7:00 - 9:00pm - Adults Drop-In Improv Theatre - Thursday nights at the Invermere Seniors Hall. It’s pay what you can with a suggested minimum of $10. All levels of interest and experience welcome.

Friday July 3

10:00am - Tennis for Everyone - Columbia Valley Mixed Doubles Tennis, Rotary Park Tennis Courts.

10:30-11:30 - Pop-Up Story Time - Pothole Park. Join us for stories, songs and a craft. Geared towards preschool age, but all welcome to attend.

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

2:00-3:00pm - Friday Funday at the Invermere Public Library. STEAM and art activities geared towards kids aged 6-9, but all welcome to attend. Drop off for ages 6+. Registration required

6:30pm - Meat Draw and 50/50 in the Legion. Members and guests welcome. Fri, Sat, & Sun - Steamboat Mountain Music Festival - 15th Annual Steamboat Mountain Music Festival- Edgewater BC- www.steamboatmtnmusicfest.ca/

Saturday July 4

10:30 - 11:30 - Story Time - Invermere Public Library. Join us for stories, songs and a craft. Geared towards preschool age, but all welcome to attend.

11:00am - 12:30pm - Lego Club at the Invermere Public Libray.. Drop in for free play with Lego and Duplo. This is not a supervised event.

4:00 - 6:00pm - Meat Draw and 50/50 in the Legion. Members and guests welcome. Mountain Al Fresco - Dinner in White-Presented by District of Invermere. This themed pop-up picnic event returns to a new secret location in Invermere. Everything is white, from the decorations to the plates to the diner's outfits! Visit www.mountainalfresco.com for full event details, to purchase tickets and meals. Meal orders close June 30th.

Sunday July 5

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

Monday July 6

10:00 -11:00am - Seniors Yoga 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.

10:00am - Tennis for Everyone - Columbia Valley Mixed Doubles Tennis, Rotary Park Tennis Courts.

1:30pm - Cribbage & Darts at Invermere Seniors Hall.

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

At Dark - Movies in the Mountains - Anaconda. Starts at dark Enjoy free movies every Monday evening throughout July and August in Pothole Park. Presented by the District of Invermere. Bring your lawn chairs, blankets and cash for the on site concession.

Tuesday July 7

10:00-11:00am - Seniors Fitness Columbia Valley Centre. Doors open 9:30 for warmups 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. Summer Reading Club - Invermere Public Library. Free program with crafts, games and fun! One-time registration required. Ages 5-8 @ 11am-12:30pm (5 year olds must be

finished kindergarten to attend) Ages 9-12 @ 2pm-3:30pm.

w4:00 -5:00pm - Youth Zone at the Invermere Public Libary. Programming for kids aged 9-14. A variety of art and STEAM activities. Registration required.

6:30 - 8:00pm - Second Winds Community Band Practises every Tuesday at the Catholic Church in Invermere. New members are welcome.

Wednesday July 8

10:00 -11:00am - Seniors Yoga Columbia Valley Centre. Doors open 9:30 for warm-up and indoor walking-$2 drop-in. Please note: classes may be moved to Invermere Seniors Hall when the Columbia Valley Centre is booked for larger events.

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

11:00am - Tennis for Everyone - Columbia Valley Mixed Doubles Tennis, Rotary Park Tennis Courts.

2:00 -3:00pm - Sewcial Hour - Invermere Public Library. Drop in with your textile projects or join us and have a cup of tea while you socialize with other makers. All welcome! No registration required.

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

Add Your Event to our NEW Weekly Events Listing!

Want to see your community event listed in the Pioneer? Submit event details to admin@columbiavalleypioneer.com

Socialize at 'Sundays in the Garden'

Submitted

A new community initiative is taking root in Invermere, offering residents a welcoming space to connect, and socialize.

'Sundays in the Garden,' held every Sunday from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Columbia House

Sundays in the Garden

Where Friends Meet Friends

July 5

Janny Bee Music

July 12

Bill Cropper

orscantopurchase

July 19

Martyrs Parish

July 26

Windermere Alliance Church

Healing Garden, invites seniors, caregivers, students, volunteers, and community members to gather in a relaxed outdoor setting where friendships can flourish and meaningful conversations can take place.

There is no registration required or any fees. It’s completely free.

The program is the newest initiative to emerge from the Compassionate Communities work being undertaken in the Columbia Valley by the Hospice Society in partnership with United Way and UBC.

Alongside the recently launched Walk and Talk program that takes place on Wednesdays from 1:30 to 2:30 p.m., Sundays in the Garden was developed following a local advisory committee brainstorming session focused on identifying gaps in community social programming and exploring ways to strengthen support for residents who may be experiencing isolation.

“The committee members recognized that many seniors, caregivers, and individuals facing life challenges can benefit from simple opportunities to connect with others in an informal, welcoming environment,” said Patrick Paulo, executive director of the Hospice Society of the Columbia Valley.

“Creating this program encourages people to make friends. By simply enjoying your Sundays in the Healing Gardens, we can foster a culture of care, inclusion, and neighbourly support.”

The Healing Garden, located beside Columbia House, provides an ideal setting for these interactions, Paulo added.

We encourage anyone looking to meet new people, spend time outdoors, or simply enjoy a friendly conversation to join us at the Columbia House Healing Garden. Drop in, listen to music.

Both Sundays in the Garden and Walk and Talk are also connected to the broader goal of helping build a more compassionate community. Research consistently demonstrates that social isolation can have significant impacts on physical and mental well-being, so programs such as Sundays in the Garden provide a simple but meaningful way for residents to stay connected, engage with others, and contribute to a stronger sense of belonging.

By combining social connection with volunteer development, organizers hope to create lasting benefits for participants and strengthen the community's capacity to care for one another.

The goal is to host a variety of musical acts and activities throughout the summer, as the program develops and evolves.

To pull it all off, however, there is a real need to recruit local musicians/performers to help create the variety the organizers are hoping to achieve. Currently, there are spots available for musicians in July and August.

As the Compassionate Communities movement continues to grow in the Columbia Valley, initiatives such as Sundays in the Garden demonstrate how small acts of connection can help create a more caring, supportive, and resilient community for everyone.

If you are interested in taking part in either the Sundays in the Garden program or the Walk and Talk program as a participant, volunteer or performer, please reach out to Joshua Estabrooks, volunteer coordinator for the Columbia Valley, and let’s get you out in the garden!

Area F volunteer of the year honoured

By Steve Hubrecht  steve@columbiavalleypioneer.com

Fairmont Hot Springs-area resident Raylene Oram was officially honoured recently as Regional District of East Kootenay (RDEK) Area F volunteer of the year.

Oram was chosen for the award in early May, and was formally recognized during an Area F information meeting in Windermere on Thursday, June 18.

RDEK Electoral Area F Director Susan Clovechok described Oram as “the embodiment of community service.”

Clovechok first met Oram more than a decade and a half ago (while Oram was volunteering) and during that time Clovechok has lost count of just how many organizations Oram has volunteered her time, energy, and skills.

During the award presentation, the RDEK cited Oram’s volunteer efforts distributing food hampers with the Columbia Valley Food Bank, with the Invermere Health Care Auxiliary Thrift Shop, with the Lake Windermere District Lions Club, with the Lakeview Manor Society, with the Christmas Bureau, with local bonspiels, with the local community board, and with the Columbia Valley Rockies.

Oram has volunteered with the Rockies for two decades in all sorts of roles — including as secretary and treasurer, helping with budgeting, financial oversight, fundraising events, the golf tournament, and

Bull Riding in the Rockies, in many different capacities at the arena on game days, and as a billet mom to not just one but three different Rockies players each season.

“She really does a lot for the community. So much so that I’m having trouble right now thinking of an organization she hasn’t helped in some way,” Clovechok told the Pioneer. “There are so many great volunteers in the Columbia Valley, but even among company like that Raylene still stands out. She’s quite remarkable.”

For her part, Oram is humble, telling the Pioneer she volunteers so much simply because “I like to be busy.”

Oram grew up in Kimberley and lived for many years in Calgary while working for the Bank of Montreal. In 2004, she and her husband Claude moved to the Crooked Tree neighbourhood near Fairmont Hot Springs. In 2008, Oram retired but immediately started volunteering for different causes in the Columbia Valley.

“It’s a great way to help out, to get to know other people, and it makes you feel like part of the community,” said Oram. “I keep adding more (volunteer roles) because I really enjoy it, and because when someone asks ‘Can you help out?’, I haven’t learned how to say ‘no’ yet.”

She explained being a Rockies billet mom to three players at once reminds her of when her own kids were teenagers, with a full and bustling house and plenty of laughter.

Pupils learn stewardship

While the three R’s are crucial, students from Edgewater Elementary School are learning another important lesson: stewardship.

Pupils in Grade 5-7 recently participated in releasing salmon in the Athalmer Chinook salmon beds under the guidance of the Shuswap Band.

School district superintendent Aaron Callaghan reported that students are building relationships via hands-on experience, in this case, the salmon release which is teaching them environmental responsibility and meaningful partnerships.

Students are caring for salmon

from embryo to the fry stage, learning how to feed the fish, monitor tank conditions, and observing the fish’s lifecycle.

Reconnecting Kootenays mere concept

Columbia Valley Pioneer staff

An updated working plan for ‘Reconnecting the Kootenays’ by trail is merely a concept at this early stage, the Pioneer has learned.

A recent presentation by geologist John Bell to the Regional District of East Kootenay provided details from an “old working copy” of the plan. Since then, the Pioneer was given an updated version.

The document outlines the opportunity to reconnect the East and West Kootenays through historic mountain routes (existing trails) that support culture, health, and tourism. The vision is to see a community-built, sustainable connection for cycling and hiking, with a 20-40 kilometre phased build via Earl Grey Pass and/or a six to eight kilometre build via Jumbo Pass.

“At this early stage, the goal is to open a conversation to gauge interest, hear thoughts and ideas, explore potential partnerships or levels of support, and gather suggestions on the best path forward,” according to the document.

The history

The plan states that trails have always existed connecting the two Kootenays, where goods, services and people have moved back and forth for thousands of years. These travel corridors are still navigable today and extensively used by aircraft.

The document highlights that First Nations (Ktunaxa) used these passes for centuries to hunt and trade. These routes through the Purcell Mountains helped connect East

and West Kootenay communities. Earl Grey Pass, formerly Wells Pass, was one of the main historic crossings.

By the late 1800s, Wells Pass was also used by prospectors, packers, and supply travellers including Fred Marshall in the 1890s, the document points out. It adds that rampant exploration took place as silver prices spiked. Men pushed into these remote areas, building trails to move provisions between East and West.

“Cattle were driven right over the pass (Earl Grey), loaded on paddle wheelers to feed hungry mining towns sprouting up.”

The document shows that Earl Grey Pass was already a developed route linking East and West. It also notes that Lord Earl Grey, Canada’s Governor General from 1904-1911, rode the very same route in 1908 from Toby Creek, over the pass, to Hamill Creek. The pass was renamed in his honour, and his cabin still stands today.

The concept

The idea is to educate people on the legacy of these trail networks, and engage in discussion about whether reconnecting the Kootenays (via a proposed cycling route) is in the best interest of the people. The concept also promotes a viable second option for travel that reduces carbon footprint while increasing health benefits, and to show that the project is fully inclusive and sustainable. Bell says it will also set the standard for other geographically similar regions in the world.

The document highlights how

NOTICE OF INTENT

RE: LIQUOR CONTROL AND LICENSING ACT

APPLICATION FOR A NEW LIQUOR PRIMARY LICENCE

Application for a new liquor primary licence (ancillary) has been received by the Liquor and Cannabis Regulation Branch from Baseline Training & Movement Centre Ltd. to be located at Unit 2 – 315 3rd Ave.

Proposed licensed hours are: 9:00 AM to 12:00 AM. (Midnight); Daily.

Proposed person capacity will be limited to 20 persons for the interior.

Residents located within a 0.5 mile (0.8 km) radius of the site may comment on this proposal by:

1) Writing to:

THE GENERAL MANAGER

C/O SENIOR LICENSING ANALYST

LIQUOR AND CANNABIS REGULATION BRANCH PO BOX 9292

VICTORIA, BC V8W 9J8

2) Emailing: LCRB.SLA@gov.bc.ca

Referencing: Job 153692

PETITIONS AND FORM LETTERS WILL NOT BE CONSIDERED

To ensure the consideration of your views, your comments, name, and address must be received on or before July 25, 2026. Please note that your comments may be made available to the applicant or local government officials where disclosure is necessary to administer the licensing process.

the same corridors fuel world-class hiking and backcountry adventures, noting that mountain biking and eBikes are the fastest growing outdoor activity in BC.

Because recent wildfire activity in the Hamill Creek area has opened up the landscape, it is the ideal time to restore and upgrade the Earl Grey

and Jumbo corridor, according to the plan.

“This trail resurrects and improves the ancient and historical connections across the Kootenays,” the document says, adding it will reconnect people and culture, boost tourism and local businesses, and make BC more accessible.

More book sales coming this summer

This week’s column was written by Radium Friends of the Library volunteer Donna Tunney and library co-director Mark Anderson. Call 250347-2434 for more information.

It’s that time of year when people are searching for the perfect beach read. Fortunately, you won’t have far to look since the Friends of the Radium Library have scheduled three Pop-up Book Sales through the summer months.

Check us out during the Market on Main event on the following Fridays: July 31 and August 28.

You’ll find us in front of Radium Brewing, on the corner of Main Street west and Saint Mary's Street from 4 to 6 p.m.

We’ve got a great selection of gently used books in all your favourite genres — romance, mystery, fantasy, and more.

If you miss us there, don’t fret. You can visit our two Little Blue Libraries in the village anytime. One is by Radium Brewing, the other is in front of the Radium Post Office on Radium Boulevard.

If you have books you’ve already read that are taking up room on your bedside table, feel free to leave them at one of our Little Blue Libraries for someone else to enjoy.

If you’re looking for newer titles, or advice on which author to read next, visit the Radium Public Library in the Radium Hot Springs Centre at 4863 Stanley Street.

It's also that time of year when the Radium Library offers its annual Summer Reading Club program for children and youth, ages 5-12.

Please join us at 2 p.m. each Friday during the summer months (July 3, 10, 17, 24 and 31, and August 7, 14 and 21) for this exciting opportunity to meet new friends, to participate in games, crafts, and activities, and, of course, to read a wide variety of interesting and engaging books.

You can pre-register by e-mailing info@radium.bclibrary.ca or phoning 250-347-2434.

Implement shed history

Curator's Corner

By J.D. Jeffery Museum Curator

As the museum grounds were growing with more buildings to display artifacts collected from valley residents, the workspace was in shorter supply.

The first building to be built at the museum was the implement shed in 1983; it provided a workspace and additional storage for building equipment. With a threewalled foundation on the bottom, the top floor was built as a storage area for building equipment as well as workshop space.

The workshop never came to fruition due to a lack of insulation in the walls, so the space was too cold in the winter and too hot in the summer. The space became a great place to store the large artifacts that were hard to display.

The bottom floor consisted of three cement walls and a dirt floor; this area became a display space for the outdoor equipment. A screen

fence in front allowed visitors to view the items while wandering the grounds as well as protect the equipment on display.

In 2009 it was decided to enclose the display area to help control the excessive dust that was always having to be cleaned off of the farm equipment. A cement floor was poured, two roll-up doors and a man door were installed, lights were wired in and the walls painted to finish everything off. With a nice clean look, the space was ready to display things centred around farming, gardening and forestry. The building then became known as the implement shed due to the tools that were on display.

January 1985 had discussions on purchasing a fireproof safe to protect all the documents the museum had acquired. By March, the discussion had moved from getting a safe to building a vault for future growth. Moving into the fall, an announcement was made that the vault was finished and the paint was still drying. The small 10x10 room was going to give the museum space to store documents in a fireproof, environmentally controlled manner.

Volunteering in the Valley

Columbia House

• Gardeners are needed to do light watering, weeding and planting. There are no set days or times it would be entirely based on volunteer’s availability.

• BINGO callers are needed (Mondays @ 2:00PM and Fridays @ 10:30AM)

• Local arts programs are looking for any artists who could run very simple arts and crafts programs with the residents (weekly, biweekly or monthly).

• Have you been on an interesting or exotic adventure, and would like to share stories from your travels, expeditions, or even some local history with the residents? Presentations are always welcomed!

• Volunteers are needed to facilitate a reading program where residents and volunteers read in small groups for about an hour a week.

Hospice Society of the Columbia Valley

• Walk and Talk program volunteers (young people are more than welcome) needed to visit with seniors in the Healing Gardens on Wednesdays from 1:30-2:30 pm.

Navcare/WeCare volunteers needed to provide social support to those who have life limiting diagnosis/illness.

• Musicians needed for Sunday entertainment in the Healing Gardens from 10-1.

Columbia Valley Food and Farm

• Volunteer drivers are needed to deliver prepared meals to seniors in their homes once a week for the Nourish program.

Family Dynamix

• Volunteers are needed for the Better at Home program, spending time visiting with seniors, taking them to medical appointments or helping them with their daily or weekly errands.

If any of these opportunities appeal to you, or you would like more information on volunteering in general, please reach out:

Joshua Estabrooks Volunteer Coordinator

Hospice Society of the Columbia Valley 250-688-8012 volunteer@hospicesocietycv.com

Cycling 4 Cause, Try-It Day a success

By Steve Hubrecht  steve@columbiavalleypioneer.com

The first-ever Cycling 4 A Cause Summer Solstice Poker Ride and the Recreation Adapted (RAD) Society’s Try-It Day both wheeled to success recently.

Cycling 4 A Cause was organized by the Columbia Valley Cycling Society (CVCS) as a fundraiser for RAD and for the Summit Youth Centre Hub. It was held on Saturday, June 20 and drew far more participants than organizers anticipated, with

more than 100 poker riders showing up.

During the Poker Ride, the RAD Society demonstrated its collection of adaptive mountain bikes and trikes at the Lake Lillian-Johnson trailhead. The next day, on Sunday, June 21, RAD held the Try-It Day at James Chabot Provincial Park in Invermere, allowing local residents and visitors to use those same adaptive mountain bikes and trikes, including the society’s new Bowhead Rogue.

“It was awesome,” RAD founder

Tanelle Bolt told the Pioneer. “Both days were very successful.”

The RAD Society got the Bowhead Rogue through the BC Parks licence plate program, which sells specialty licence plates (those ones featuring the Bugaboos and the white Kermode ‘Spirit’ bear, among other designs) to raise money for parks, wildlife conservation and accessibility initiatives.

The Rogue was a hit, and James Chabot was a great location for the Try-It Day, explained Bolt.

“It offered a bit of rock to ride on, a bit of sand, a bit of grass, and a bit of path. It was fun,” she said.

Poker ride organizers were also pleased.

“It (Cycling 4 A Cause) ended up with much higher numbers than we anticipated, which was wonderful,” said CVCS member Carolyn Kurtz. She explained the society would’ve been happy with about 25 to 40 riders, so was delighted that more than 100 turned out.

“It was very inclusive for families and for those with mobility challenges,” said Kurtz, referencing the RAD demos. “It was an amazing day and we will definitely be running the event again next year.”

DAVID THOMPSON SECONDARY SCHOOL

Graduates of 2026

Ready to discover who we can become

By Findlay Whittick Valedictorian

To the graduates, teachers, staff, families, and friends—thank you for being here to celebrate this milestone with us.

When I found out I had been chosen as valedictorian, I was honoured and a little surprised.

I spent much of this past year away from the classroom, pursuing opportunities and goals outside of school, which reminded me that learning happens in many different places.

Some of us spent every spare minute studying. Some balanced school with sports, jobs, businesses, volunteering, family responsibilities, or personal challenges that no one else saw. Some of us know exactly what we wanted to do after graduation. Others are still figuring it out. And that's okay.

If there's one thing I hope we take away from our time here, it's that our value has never been measured by a percentage, a transcript, or a title.

Those things matter. They can open doors. But they don't tell our whole story.

The people in this room today are talented in ways that will never appear on a report card. They are leaders, creators, athletes, musicians, workers, problem-solvers, and friends. Some of the biggest lessons we learned here didn't happen in a classroom at all.

We learned how to recover from failure.

We learned how to handle disappointment.

We learned how to keep going when things didn't go according to plan.

We learned how to support each other.

And we learned that growth often happens when things are uncomfortable.

As we leave high school, we're all heading in different directions. Some are going to university. Some are heading to trades programs. Some are entering the workforce. Some are taking a gap year. Some are still deciding.

But no matter where we go next, none of us have it all figured out.

Despite what social media might tell us, there is no deadline for success. Success means something different to each and every one of us. Everyone will have an opinion on what you should do with your life, but you are the only one who will decide what is right for you.

There is no age where you're supposed to have your entire life planned.

The people who accomplish great things aren't always the ones who knew exactly where they were going. They're often the ones who were willing to keep learning, keep adapting, and keep moving forward even when they weren't sure of the path ahead.

So as we leave this chapter, I hope we give ourselves permission to be curious. Permission to change our minds. Permission to not care what others think. Permission to take risks. Permission to fail and try again.

And permission to define success for our-

selves rather than letting someone else define it for us.

To the teachers and staff, thank you for your patience, guidance, and belief in us.

To the parents, guardians, families, friends, and supporters, thank you for every early morning, every ride, every sacrifice, and every moment you stood behind us when we needed it most.

And to the Class of 2026: Be ambitious. Work hard. Chase big goals.

But don't get so focused on achievements that you forget to enjoy the journey.

And while we're all chasing different versions of success, it's important to remember that some of the most important parts of our lives won't be found in our achievements at all.

The people you choose to have in your life will matter far more than anything else. Family will always be there for you, but the people who choose to stand beside you through everything are worth holding onto. Give your time, energy, and love to those who truly value it, because the relationships we build are often what shape our lives the most.

The friendships, memories, challenges, and experiences we've had together are what we'll remember long after tonight.

We came into high school as kids trying to figure out who we were. We leave as young adults ready to discover who we can become. Congratulations, Class of 2026!

DAVID THOMPSON SECONDARY SCHOOL

DAVID THOMPSON SECONDARY SCHOOL

Graduates of 2026

Congrats Class of 2026!

Always let your curiosity for life be bigger than your fear. Be curious.

Dream without limits.

Build a life that makes you feel alive.

DAVID THOMPSON SECONDARY SCHOOL

Graduates of 2026

DAVID THOMPSON SECONDARY SCHOOL

Graduates of 2026

The path we’ve walked, a memory bright, Now stretches out to a hopeful light. A bridge of dreams, a future vast, With lessons learned that forever last Special Congratulations to Charlotte Carey & Cohen Lawrick!

DAVID THOMPSON SECONDARY SCHOOL

Graduates of 2026

DAVID THOMPSON SECONDARY SCHOOL

Graduates of 2026

DAVID THOMPSON SECONDARY SCHOOL

Graduates of 2026

DAVID THOMPSON SECONDARY SCHOOL

Graduates of 2026

It's the Bookmobile!

This week’s column was written by Dallas Husar, the new Bookmobile captain at Invermere Public Library. Visit their website or call 250342-6416 for more information.

Do you love diving into a good book but find you just can’t make it to the Invermere (or Radium) library? No worries because we are here to help.

The Invermere Public Library officially launched the Bookmobile in April. Since then, we have been driving up and down the valley, bringing the library to the people. We are stopping monthly in Spillimacheen, Brisco, Edgewater, Wilmer, Panorama, Lakeview Manor, Columbia Garden Village, Windermere, Fairmont, and Canal Flats. The route schedule can be found on our website (invermere.bc.libraries. coop), social media pages, or give us a call (250-342-6416).

We understand that not everyone can make it to the library, and for some, even making it to the Bookmobile may be out of the question. In these cases, we are offering home deliveries via the Bookmobile. Homebound patrons can order books and have them dropped off at their door. A signed user agreement is required, so please give us a call (250-342-6416) if this is a service you

would like to set up.

We are also thrilled to be a part of community events throughout the valley, having already attended the ?akisq'nuk open house, Fairmont Picnic Palooza, Art from the Heart, Canal Days, Pride Festival, and Indigenous Peoples Day celebrations. Maybe you spotted the Bookmobile in the Canada Day parade. We pride ourselves on being the community gathering place and it’s wonderful to be able to extend that beyond the four walls of the library.

We will also be using the Bookmobile to support Pop-up Storytime and Summer Reading Club in Canal Flats and Edgewater. This will be a great chance for families and children to take advantage of this library on wheels and stay flush with summer reading materials. For more information on Summer Reading Club, visit our website.

This endeavour has been the result of many folks working together, lots of grants, private donations, and a ton of support. We are so grateful to everyone who has made this project possible. If you would like to contribute to the operation of the Bookmobile, donations are truly appreciated. Donors and grantor information can be found on our website.

Don’t have a library card yet? Bring government ID with a local address to the Bookmobile or the library, and we will get you started. Contact us for other membership options.

I look forward to seeing everyone out and about on the Bookmobile.

Local student wins deaf art competition

A Grade 8 student from DTSS recently won first place in the Deaf Art Competition, and third place in a BC-wide communication contest.

Nevaya’s piece entitled ‘Love is Equal’ took top honours in the competition with the theme ‘Not Disability, but a Difference.’

Nevaya stated that her art shows the theme because “everybody is different in their own way. Differences can be visible or invisible.”

Participants used American sign language or spoken English to demonstrate their communication skills.

The school community is very proud of Nevaya's accomplishment and encourages her to continue working on her art.

Grade 8 student Nevaya from DTSS took top honours recently in a deaf art competition with her piece titled 'Love is Equal.'

SCREENSHOT

Laird student wins Principal's Award

Columbia Valley Pioneer staff

Local student Kinley Tagg is the winner of this year’s J.A. Laird Elementary School Principal’s Award.

The award is given out annually to recognize excellence in both character and achievement, including academic performance, leadership, moral values, contribution to the school community, and personal growth and perseverance.

Laird principal Don Reid outlined that the Principal’s Award recipient serves as a role model, embodying the values and vision of the school while making meaningful contributions both inside and outside of the classroom.

J.A. Laird Elementary student Kinley Tagg receives the Principal's Award from Don Reid during a special presentation.

PIONEER CLASSIFIEDS

OBITUARY

Gibbs, Nick

April 4,1948- June 17, 2026

It is with deep sadness and much love that we say goodbye to Nick Gibbs, husband to Judy, father to Kate and Natalie (Mitch), brother in law to Joanne (Steph and Berlin family), Jeff (Shelia) and Jim (Karen).

Nick passed away peacefully in the care of amazing doctors and nurses at the Invermere hospital where he was surrounded by family.

Nick was a well known and respected member of our beautiful community of Invermere, in which he lived and loved for over 40 years.

Nick left his home in England at a young age as a trained red seal chef, travelled throughout Europe and then found his way to western Canada where he started working for CP Hotels.

Nick settled in Invermere, where he met his wife and had his two daughters. Many people here knew him as a talented, passionate chef and the owner of Portabella restaurant. What a great way to cap his long and successful career!

Nick instilled an incredible work ethic in both daughters. He shared with them his love for history, music, adventure and his creative spark.

His beautiful English garden was enjoyed by many who passed by the Gibbs residence. He had a passion for skiing, travelling, and golf, and was a proud member of the Kinsmen club.

The Gibbs family extends a heartfelt thank you to Dad’s caring medical team. We truly appreciate all the support we received.

A celebration of life will be held at a later date. Right now, a great way to remember Nick would be to raise a glass of fine red wine and enjoy a beautiful meal. We will miss you Dad… and will never eat the same again.

GERRY TAFT

250.341.1202

ROBIN SHMIGELSKY

250.342.1548

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.

Sentinel Storage, located at : 1508 Hwy 93/95, Windermere BC V0B 2L1

Hereby gives notice under the Warehouseman’s Liens Act of auction of a Grey Wells Cargo box Utility Trailer.

# H03 P. Bansal

Auction to be held on www. Bid13.com on Tuesday July 7th 2026. Terms are debit or credit only. Cash deposit required. See website for terms and conditions.

July 4, 2026 9 am- 1 pm 305B 12 Ave

New Peddle Boat, 1 man pontoon boat, plants -household, inside outside, Xmas, tools, misc

OBITUARY

In Loving Memory

August 7, 1937 — June 17, 2026

Our beautiful Mama, Oma, sister, wife and friend peacefully passed away on June 17th, 2026, at Ivy House in Invermere, BC. Edeltraut was born in Osterwieck am Harz in Germany in 1937, and lived there with her parents and two younger sisters Eva and Rita. As a teenager Edeltraut and Eva were smuggled out of what was East Germany before the wall went up. She stayed with her aunt who was a nun in a convent in West Germany. It was there she met her husband to be, Elmar, at a party with friends. He took one look at her and told his buddy that he was going to marry her. He took his date back home and went back to the party to get to know his beautiful, sweet future wife. They got engaged and made plans to emmigrate to Canada. Elmar went ahead and found a place in Calgary, Alberta to settle. Edeltraut followed a year later and they were married in Calgary on April 12, 1958 at St.Mary’s Church. They raised their three daughters, Susan, Elke and Monica in Calgary. Edeltraut always worked - as a seamstress, 20 years for Shell Canada in the drafting department and busy at home cooking, baking, gardening, and shopping. She was an avid member of the St.Boniface German church and sang in the church choir for many years. Mom loved to travel - to Germany to visit family, to Mexico and especially to Hawaii, and enjoyed spending evenings visiting with friends and was always up for an all-night game of canasta. Edeltraut loved her family and friends, always making everyone feel comfortable and

Garage Sale Canada Day!! All July long weekend! 4716 Mercury Street Windermere Wednesday, July 1 Noon -4 pm Thurs thru Sun July 2-5 10 am to 4 pm

Dutch Creek Community Garage Sale on July 11th from 9am-2pm

Annual Multi Family Garage Sale at Dutch Creek RV Resort 5478 Hwy 93/95 Fairmont Hot Springs, BC Saturday July 4, 2026 9am-2pm

welcome in our home. She was always described by everyone as a classy lady, inside and out. She enjoyed spoiling her children and grandchild and all of her dogs and many granddogs, especially at Christmas which she always made memorable for us.

Edeltraut was predeceased by her parents Margarete and Paul, her daughter Susan, her loving husband Elmar (on June 17, 2021), by sister Eva, and many beloved pets and grand-dogs.

Edeltraut is survived by two daughters, Elke (Perry, Chanel) and Monica ( Rino, Aspen); grandson Dustin; son-in-law Larry; sister Rita (Günther); nieces Marion, Birgit, and Andrea (Hermie); great-nieces Denise and Michelle; family in Arizona Heidi and Norbert , Melissa (Jeff, Kayden, Noah) and Phillip; as well as many friends in Calgary.

To honour mom’s wishes a private family service will be held with immediate family. We invite those who knew her to share memories with us on the McPherson funeral home website. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in Edeltraut’s name to the Alzheimer’s Society of Canada or the Calgary Humane Society.

Special thanks and we are so grateful to Dr. Schaffer and all the staff at Ivy House and Columbia Garden Village in Invermere who took such good care of mom while she lived there.

Murphy,

Myrtle Helen (Ruthven) April 22, 2026-June 15, 2026

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of our mother, Myrtle Helen (Ruthven) Murphy, on June 15, 2026 at the age of 90 years.

Myrtle was born in Lacombe, AB on April 22, 1936, to Albert and Frances Ruthven, she being the youngest of four children. Their family lived in Bawlf, AB where Albert was a section foreman with CP Railway. Their home was very close to the tracks, and Myrtle remembered the dishes rattling whenever the trains passed by.

Myrtle attended Nursing School, and soon thereafter, met the love of her life, Dennis. They married in 1956, and were parents to seven children. Myrtle was able to apply her nursing skills in the raising of her active young family.

Dennis began his teaching career within the Catholic School Board in Hay Lakes and Ponoka, AB. In 1968, they moved their young family to Calgary, AB, where Dennis continued his teaching career, and Myrtle took on part-time work with Sears and Woodwards. There, she met many new friends and stayed with Woodwards until the store closed permanently in 1993.

Dennis and Myrtle loved the Windermere Valley in British Columbia, and in the 1980’s, purchased a lot in Indian Beach Estates. They worked together, along with family and friends, building a beautiful retirement home, which was always open for everyone to come and visit, and many special celebrations were hosted in their home and yard. They both had green thumbs, growing fruit and vegetables, and delicious tomatoes. Myrtle was a master at growing beautiful flowers, and her jams were exceptional.

Many treasured friendships were forged in the Valley, and Dennis and Myrtle were active members of the Canadian Martyrs Catholic Perish in Invermere, B.C. They both loved golf and were members of the Men’s and Ladies Leagues at the Windermere Valley Golf Course. They made a dream trip to Europe and were fortunate to see a live presentation of “The Oberammergau Passion Play”, with special friends, Frank and Esther Dyck. In 1967, they loaded up the kids into a station wagon and drove all the way across Canada to experience Expo 67 in Montreal. While there, they took in a baseball game at Wrigley Field, Chicago. When checking in, the incredulous attendant asked if all those kids belonged to them – to which they cheerfully replied, “Yes!” He let them in at no cost.

Myrtle is survived by her seven children, Gregory (Lorelea) Murphy, Colleen (David) Schnell, Michael Murphy, Shannon Grossi, Lorraine Shipton, Daniel (Gail) Murphy, and Grant (Lindsay) Murphy, along with 11 grandchildren, four great-grandchildren, and sister-in-law, Amy Ruthven. Myrtle was predeceased by her husband, Dennis Roderick Murphy, granddaughter Sarah Schnell, and sons-in-law Gerry Shipton and Dr. Victor Grossi. We would like to express our heartfelt gratitude to Columbia Garden Village in Invermere, for the exceptional care which everyone gave to Myrtle during her final years. We remain deeply grateful.

A Funeral Mass will be set for a later date.

MOVING SALE

Everything must go! 10% discount on purchases of $20 or more. July 4, 2026 11am-4pm. 4784 Selkirk Ave, Edgewater Household items, Christmas, Halloween decorations, novelties, camping equipment, tools, and more.

CHEERS

Cheers to Dr. Parkins and his staff at Copper City Dental for being so kind and patient with me. Special shoutout to Leslie, Lyndsay and Maggie.

CHEERS

Cheers Braiden StuartMOST ahmazing; can-doeverything-handyman… a thinker; brings tools; puts stuff away (imagine). Strong. Fast n fun. Pay me a gazillion dollars and I might give you his number… (see him at Bosley’s) plus…a fabulous unique spray-paint artist. So appreciate who you are Braiden. Welcome home.

Big cheers to Judy Grant of Kimberley. Your singing and entertaining made our Invermere Seniors Centre BBQ a special event. See you next year.

CHEERS

Cheers to Reg for coming to my house on short notice to fix a problem in my yard. You are an expert at every job you complete.

Cheers to over 100 riders for making the 1st Annual Cycling 4 a Cause - Summer Solstice-Poker Ride a resounding success. Cheers to Panorama Bike Park Staff for providing First Aid at each trailhead. Kudos to our over 25 local businesses of the Columbia Valley who generously donated prizes.

Career Opportunity Recreation Coordinator

The Village of Radium Hot Springs seeks an organized and self-motivated person with a passion for community recreation as its Recreation Coordinator.

Primarily using Village indoor and outdoor public spaces, the Recreation Coordinator enthusiastically and creatively organizes all aspects of recreation planning and delivery, focusing on customer service and safety.

The ideal candidate will hold a grade 12 diploma at minimum with additional certifications considered an asset. A valid class 5 BC driver’s licence and a satisfactory criminal record check are requirements of the position.

In return the Village offers a wage of $28 to $32 per hour depending on experience and based on an anticipated 25-hour work week with opportunity for additional hours as required. Some evening and weekend work is an expectation of the position.

The position offers an opportunity to grow and learn with the organization and comprehensive benefits including a defined benefit pension through BC’s Municipal Pension Plan.

The position is a one-year term position with potential for extension for the right candidate.

Reporting to the Chief Administrative Officer, the successful candidate will represent the Village in a positive, professional, and friendly manner. Creating welcoming, inclusive, fun, safe, and engaging experiences for participants of all ages and fitness levels.

A monthly recreation calendar will be developed in advance and marketing and communications, including web and social media, will be important elements of the position.

Desired knowledge includes:

• Basic knowledge of the Village’s recreation assets

• Sound knowledge of recreation programs, practices, and objectives

• Ability to organize, lead, and participate in recreation programs and activities

Demonstrated athletic aptitude and related experience in delivering programs and activities for diverse audiences

• Ability to establish and maintain effective communications with different publics of all ages and abilities

Personality is key! Awesome candidates should submit a resume and cover letter by Friday July 17, 2026 to:

Jill Logan, Corporate Officer

Village of Radium Hot Springs jill.logan@radiumhotsprings.ca

The Village of Radium Hot Springs thanks all applicants for their interest. Only applicants selected for an interview will be contacted.

Village of Radium Hot Springs P.O. Box 340, 4836 Radium Blvd, Radium Hot Springs, B.C., ph: 250-347-6455 fax: 250-347-9068

CHEERS

Cheers to Sharrie and Wayne from Heaven’s Best Carpet Cleaning. My carpets look brand new. Great job!

Cheers and Hugs to Ozzies Amusements from the J.A. Laird staff for your kindness...we had so much fun!

SWIM LESSONS

SWIM LESSONS at Fairmont Hot Springs with Rocky Mountain Swim Lessons. Book online at www. rockymountainswimlessons.ca

SERVICES

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

STRATA GROUNDSKEEPER

Strata Maintenance Personnel

POSITION SUMMARY – Akiskinook is looking to fill seasonal groundskeeping positions. This is an outdoor hands-on role assisting with lawn maintenance and gardening, as well as care of the marina, beach, tennis courts, boatyard, recreation centre, and overall grounds.

POSITION SUMMARY - Akiskinook is looking to fill a full time, year round, maintenance position. This is an outdoor hands-on role assisting with lawn maintenance and snow removal, as well as care of the marina, beach, tennis courts, boatyard, recreation centre, and overall grounds.

RESPONSIBILITIES – You will be accountable for the overall maintenance of the common areas throughout the resort at a level consistent with the high standards expected of Akiskinook.

RESPONSIBILITIES - You will be accountable for the overall maintenance of the common areas throughout the property at a level consistent with the high standards expected of Akiskinook.

QUALIFICATIONS – The successful candidate must possess the following competencies and experience:

QUALIFICATIONS - The successful candidate must possess the following competencies and experience:

• High attention to detail

• High attention to detail

• Team player

• Team player

• Ability to run and maintain equipment

• Ability to run and maintain equipment

• A love of the outdoors and a great work ethic

• A love of the outdoors and a great work ethic

• Swimming pool operator certification is an asset, but not a requirement.

Wage will be determined based on experience and qualifications. Resumes may be submitted to akisk01@telus.net or faxed to 250-342-0122.

Wage will be determined based on experience and qualifications. Resumes may be submitted to akisk01@telus.net

FAITH

Salvation, God's gift to man

Pastor Wayne Frater Radium Christian Fellowship Church

It has been six months since Christmas, summer is here and flowers continue to bloom in the garden. I love the garden, and it is one of the places I meet with God, as the song we sing reminds us "He walks with me, and He talks with me and He tells me that I am His own."  In those times He reminds me of His love, and His free gift of salvation. All I have to do is believe and receive.

Romans 10:9 tells me “That if I confess with my mouth the Lord Jesus and believe in my heart that God raised Him from the dead, I will be saved”. I believe, I receive, and you can too.

Ephesians 2:8–10 provides us with some additional details: You are saved by grace through faith. Salvation is a gift. You are not saved because of any good works you ever did. But you were made to do good works and point people to

Christ. God prepared many good things for you to do. As you live by saving faith, you will supernaturally produce good fruit, works, and evidence that you are no longer a slave to sin.

Paul in Ephesians 1 has a prayer, and it goes like this: “Therefore I also, after I heard of your faith in the Lord Jesus and your love for all the saints, do not cease to give thanks for you, making mention of you in my prayers that the God of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of glory, may give to you the spirit of wisdom and revelation in the knowledge of Him, the eyes of your understanding being enlightened, that you may know what is the hope of His calling, what are the riches of the glory of His inheritance in the saints, and what is the exceeding greatness of His power toward us who believe, according to the working of His mighty power.” Verses 15-19.

God has a plan for each of us, a good plan, a God plan, and with trust in Him He will show us what that plan is.

A good place to start, to learn about God and His plan  is the Bible. Blessings Thrift Store in Radium Hot Springs has a good selection from testaments to large print complete Bibles, and they are free, no charge, just like the salvation Jesus came to give.

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)

No Sunday services in July and August except for Sunday July 26 1pm service at All Saints in Edgewater 7pm service at Stolen Church in Windermere 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

JESUS IS LORD CHURCH, INVERMERE

Sunday Service: 10:30am 1310 7th Ave Invermere (Invermere Inn Hotel)