Columbia Valley Pioneer - June 4, 2026

VALLEY NEWS

Donald Sam re-elected

By Steve Hubrecht  steve@columbiavalleypioneer.com

The recent ?Akisq’nuk First Nation election saw incumbent Nasu?kin (Chief) Donald Sam reelected for another term.

The main poll for voting was held on Tuesday, May 19 at the ?Akisq’nuk Health Centre, and online voting ran from May 5 to May 19. When all the ballots were tallied, Sam had earned 122 of 161 votes cast.

In total, there were seven candidates on the list. The one receiving the highest number of votes becomes Nasu?kin, and the second highest and third highest become councillors, all for fouryear terms from 2026 to 2030.

Stephanie Sam and incumbent councillor Darcy Fisher claimed the two councillor spots open in the election. Stephanie Sam got 73 votes, while Fisher got 53.

Candidates who missed the cut included Janice Alpine, Allan Nicholas, and Jason Nicholas, who each garnered 43 votes, as well as Lillian Rose, who got 28.

“It (the election) went well,” ?Akisq’nuk chief administrative officer David Bach told the Pioneer. The First Nation used Indigenous technology company OneFeather to help run its online voting, which went quite smoothly, explained Bach.

The ?Akisqnuk are governed by a five-person council: Donald Sam, Stephanie Sam, and Fisher will join two other current ?Akisq’nuk councillors — Janice Alpine and Faro Burgoyne, who are both serving four-year terms from 2024 to 2028.

Astute readers will realize that this means the ?Akisq’nuk hold staggered elections every two years, but each for four-year terms. So, the election for Nasu?kin and the first and second councillor positions was held this year. It will be held again in 2030, then 2034, 2038 and so on.

The election for the third and fourth councillor positions was held in 2024, and will be held again in 2028, then 2032, 2036, 2040 and so on.

Even more astute readers will have noticed that Janice Alpine is in the midst of a four-year term as councillor (from 2024 to 2028), but also ran in this year’s election (although she did not win a seat).  Bach explained that although this is not typical, it’s certainly allowed. If Alpine had earned the most votes, she would have become Nasu?kin. Although she didn’t win that position, or win a 2026-2030 council seat in the 2026 election, she retains her 2024-2028 councillor position.

Voter turnout amounted to slightly less than 10 per cent of total ?Akisq’nuk First Nation membership.

“It’s a bit lower than we’d like to see, but it is in keeping with years past,” said Bach.

The First Nation had hoped voter turnout might be higher in part because “our overall membership has actually grown a lot in the last several years,” he explained, having gone from 300 to more than 650.

Bach couldn’t say for certain what is driving the huge jump in membership, but it is clear that it involves ?Akisq’nuk people living off reserve, since the on-reserve ?Akisq’nuk population has remained stable at roughly 100 people through the same time period.

He suspects (emphasizing it is just a guess) that recent federal government efforts to change relief provision related to official Indigenous status as well as to make it easier for people who have lost official Indigenous status to get it back may have played a role.

The ?Akisq’nuk will hold events later this year in Alberta, Cranbrook, Kelowna and Vancouver, in the hopes of engaging some of their new members, and having a better understanding of what’s behind the membership increase.

Salmon release educational for youth

Submitted

Shuswap Band Kukpi7 Barb Cote stood at the edge of the Columbia River, where a crowd attended the Ceremonial Salmon Release on May 20.

She recounted that her grandmother grew up with plentiful salmon to eat until 1939, when salmon stopped returning to her home territory.

Washington State finished building the Grand Coulee Dam in 1942, which remains impassible to salmon.

The annual Ceremonial Salmon Release draws attention to this history and retains the upper Columbia as a place where young salmon begin their long journey to the Pacific.

Kukpi7 Barb Cote never learned about the Columbia River and the sqleltn (salmon, in the Eastern Secwepemctsin dialect) in school, despite the impact of disappearing salmon on her relatives.

Today, local schools teach more about the river system and its important history.

Cote expressed her joy at seeing children from schools around this section of the Columbia River Valley take part in the first half of the ceremonial release at historic salmon spawning sites.

In its third year, the Okanagan Nation Alliance (ONA) Fish in Schools Program in Rocky Mountain School District 6 saw the participation of six schools – McKim Middle

School in Kimberley, Windermere Elementary School, J.A. Laird Elementary and David Thompson Secondary School in Invermere, Edgewater Elementary School and Golden Secondary School.

Each class raised 50 salmon from eggs and had the opportunity to learn about salmon life cycles, ecosystem connections and food webs, the history of commercial exploitation of salmon in the Columbia River, the history of hydro-electric dam development and their impacts on fish passage, First Nations culture and salmon reintroduction efforts. The classrooms joined Shuswap Band leadership and community to learn about Secwepemc traditions while releasing salmon fry.

Children from local schools watched their salmon fry swim into the river after release.

Mark Thomas, Salmon Chief and Shuswap Band Councillor, guided each class on how to send the salmon on their way followed by ceremonial songs from the Shuswap Band as kids lined up to release salmon fry into the river.

Through his seat at the Columbia River Treaty (CRT) process, Thomas advocates for redress of harms dams have caused. The CRT, signed in 1961 to manage hydroelectric power and water sharing between the U.S. and Canada, is now in renegotiation with several First Nations representatives at the table.

Continued on page 5

SHOW & SALE for Margie Gibb’s Paintings & Art Supplies

JUNE 6 - 12-3pm

Columbia Valley Centre

New and used art supplies including easels, brushes, table palettes, canvases, canvas boards, and picture frames.

All money raised goes to Margie’s Scholarship Fund to assist high school graduates pursue a career in primary education. Cash or cheque payments accepted.

All purchases and donations of $25 or more will be issued a tax receipt.

Celebration of Life - Open House

Alice Katherina Hale

September 18, 1934 – December 17, 2025

With love, gratitude, and cherished memories, the family of Alice Hale warmly invites the community to gather in celebration of her life. Alice was a creative force, teacher, accomplished potter, gardener, traveller, choir member, badminton player and longtime contributor of the Columbia Valley arts community. Alice lived life on her own terms - independent, talented, determined, and unapologetically herself. A trailblazer in many ways, she left a lasting mark on the Columbia Valley through her creativity, curiosity, and commitment to the arts. Please join us for an Open House Reception: Saturday, June 13 1:30 PM – 3:30 PM Pynelogs Cultural Centre – Invermere Friends, neighbours, fellow artists, and all who crossed paths with Alice are invited to drop by, share memories, enjoy refreshments, and celebrate a woman who lived boldly, creatively, and with great passion for life.

Kind students win awards

By Steve Hubrecht  steve@columbiavalleypioneer.com

Some Invermere students have recently been recognized for helping making other people’s days a little bit brighter.

J.A. Laird Elementary School honoured 32 kind-hearted youngsters last week, ranging from Grade 4 to Grade 7, with its first-ever Lamplighter Awards in a ceremony on Tuesday, May 26.

“We wanted to highlight the positives and all the great kids we have at the school,” principal Don Reid told the Pioneer, speaking about why the school launched the awards.

“If you watch the news, see the state of the world, sometimes it can seem overwhelming in a negative way. But there is still also a lot of good in the world, and we have a lot of good right here at Laird.”

The name of the awards comes from the 1885 poem ‘The Lamplighter’ by Scottish author

Robert Louis Stevenson. The poem draws from Stevenson’s childhood experience of watching lamplighters walking city streets at dusk, lighting up gas lamps one by one (in the days before electricity).

To the poem’s narrator the lamplighters are wondrous, since they “poke holes in the dark,” noted Reid. “And that’s what our lamplighters at Laird do too. Sometimes a smile or a kind word is all it takes to bring light into someone else’s day, and these kids do that consistently.”

The award ceremony “was a great event. The show up and support from family and the larger community was excellent, more than we expected,” he said, adding the awards were also well received by Laird staff and students.

The 32 Lamplighter Award winners were nominated by the school’s teachers.

“I think it helps us create a stronger school community and a stronger community across the whole valley,” said Reid.

Salmon honoured during big release

Continued from page 3

Salmon Chief and Shuswap Band Councillor Mark Thomas helped his grandson scoop up salmon fry for release.

Shuswap Band Guardians, caretakers of the land who actively monitor wildlife and conditions in Secwépemcúl’ecw (Shuswap Band caretaker area), checked the river temperatures that morning to ensure conditions were right for the young fish. The Guardians take part in a larger initiative of scientific and cultural work through the Columbia River Salmon Reintroduction Initiative.

In the fall, Guardians and staff from all three Canadian Columbia River First Nations (Syilx- Okanagan Nation Alliance, Ktunaxa Nation Council, Secwépemc Nation) collect Okanagan River sockeye salmon broodstock for the Syilx-Okanagan Nation Alliance kł cp'ek' stim' Hatchery in Penticton.

In January, the gift of sockeye salmon eyed eggs for each incubation tank arrived from the Syilx ONA kł cp'ek' stim' Hatchery.

After the schools’ participation was done, Shuswap Band held the ceremonial release of the remaining 1,500 fry raised that year. Junior Salmon Chief and Guardian Devin Capilo released the fry into the river.

Leaders from the Ktunaxa Nation Council Society and ?Akisqnuk First Nation joined Shuswap Band to provide words celebrating the salmon release. Herb Alex, a Sinixt Nation member, spoke on behalf of the Upper Columbia United Tribes, speaking to the importance of collaboration on fish restoration and data collection.

Kukpi7 Barb Cote closed her speech by pointing out young faces in the crowd. It would take hard work to bring the salmon home, she said, but “these teenagers will be the ones who catch Chinook salmon in our river one day.”

Fund Raising Opportunity for your Group!

Columbia Valley Classics Car Society

At Columbia Valley Classics, we are passionate about vehicles of all types! Cars, trucks, restromods, vintage, antique and modern-day classics. Everyone with a liking for vehicles is welcome in our club. You don’t even need to own a vehicle (yet..).

Annual Show and Shine Fund Raiser

If you are looking to raise funds for your volunteer group or charity, look no further than helping out at our annual Show and Shine! This year it is being held on Saturday, September 19, 2026.

As a part of this Show and Shine, we ask volunteer groups or charities to help us out with managing our recycling and garbage. In return we allow your group to run the annual 50/50 draw. This one day draw typically raises $7,500 for the group running the 50/50. We provide all the garbage/recycling bins and bags as well as a Gator to pick up garbage/ recycling. You deliver the garbage to our garbage trailer and keep the cans/bottles for added revenue for your group. Full details will be provided to the group we select.

If this opportunity sounds interesting for your group, please send us a letter outlining details of your group and why we should choose you to run our 50/50 draw this year. Past groups are also welcome to apply. Email your letter to: ColumbiaValleyClassics@gmail.com

Letters must be received by June 30, 2026. We look forward to hearing from you!

Want to be politician?

Think you have what it takes to be a local politician?

We know what you’re thinking; you’d rather be a gnat in a windstorm.

But seriously, it’s something to think about now because general elections are happening this fall.

If you haven’t heard (or read) yet, the mayors in Invermere, Radium, and Canal Flats are seeking re-election, as are Area F and G’s regional directors.

Many people would agree that these people have done an admirable job leading their communities and electoral areas. It’s not an easy job and it can set you up for criticism, but it’s very rewarding when you help shape something good in your community, such as affordable housing or better health care. And the pay isn’t bad either, considering you have the power to give yourself a raise. The RDEK did just that to attract new people to the board table.

Folks often grumble and complain about their municipal councils or regional districts, but are seldom willing to come up with ideas or solutions to problems. Those who think they can do better, well, October will be the time to prove it. But being a mayor or councillor takes commitment, patience, a lot of reading and, most importantly, listening. Not to mention a level head. If you don’t have any of these qualities, don’t waste your time.

There are a lot of issues in Invermere, Radium and Canal Flats that need careful consideration and insight. Your ideas and passion could make a difference in turning the community around when it comes to housing, food security, water quality, and crime prevention.

While the election is five months away, it’s time to consider your potential role in local politics. Yes, the word itself turns off many people, but it rejuvenates others into action. Of course, if you think the incumbents are doing a super job, give them your full support on voting day.

Lyonel Doherty, editor

OPINION

No more power boats, please

A week ago there was a letter complaining about the development moratorium on the Athalmer boat launch. The writer alleged that there were more individuals wanting power boat access to the lake than those opposed.

I personally was involved over 30 years ago with the East Kootenay Environmental Society. Since then many locals have been involved in Wildsight, Wings Over the Rockies, Living Lakes, and Lake Windermere Lake Ambassadors. All of these groups have expressed concern with motor boat traffic on the lake.

Parents with children really find the wake a nuisance with small ones at the shore, and almost

all swimmers bemoan the turbulence boats create. One used to be able to swim with your eyes open and see the bottom of the lake through the clear water.

I have also heard people complain about the noise of boats and jet skis.

In summary, I just want to reiterate that I would much rather see no power boats on the lake. Certainly not more.

Fish spawning and bird nesting areas take far higher priority than a few individuals who want to play with their power toys.

Sharon Wass, Wilmer

LETTERS/OP-ED

Fails to see reality of bike trail concept

I'm responding to John Bell's ideas in the article “Geologist proposes bike trail network” in the May 14 issue of the Pioneer

His chosen route over Earl Grey Pass would meet a lot of local, regional, and provincial opposition since it was established as the Purcell Wilderness Conservancy (PWC) in 1974 and will retain the status forever with non-mechanized and non-motorized activity other than by hoof or foot.

It's obvious the intent of the PWC is to leave some wilderness areas for the future opportunities of our children's children and retain some mountain forest ecosystems for carbon storage, environmental sustainability, wildlife habitat, and those seeking traditional use.

Jumbo Pass is adjacent to the north boundary of the PWC and recreation land use was established in 1992-93 under the Commission on Resources and Environment

(CORE) and a user group polygon of non-motorized and non-mechanized activities was established within the pass area.

I don't see any new 'master plan' forming anytime soon as local stakeholders have struggled with the provincial government to implement the CORE recreation multiuse masterplan from 1993 to present with no success.

From 1993 – 2015 there was a lot of planning meetings, especially focused on Forester Creek to establish a central Purcell Recreation Masterplan with the intent to be used as an adjustable template for other watersheds and reached design and implementation consensus among the 17 stakeholders but mysteriously was stopped at a local political level.

The purpose of sharing this frustrating, long-term, fruitless work done by local stakeholders is to make Mr. Bell and the RDEK directors aware that although there has

A rebuttal to letter

This is a response to Bill Ark’s letter to the editor 'The real problem with power boats' (May 21).

Healthy discussion about the future of our lakes is important, and everyone who cares about the Columbia Valley benefits when those conversations are grounded in accurate information, local knowledge, and balance. Unfortunately, Bill’s letter does not reflect the realities of lake use in our region.

The suggestion that Lake Windermere is only three to five metres deep at its deepest points during boating season is simply incorrect. Frequent lake users know many areas exceed eight metres in depth. Accurate information matters, particularly when advocating for new restrictions. The same applies to statements regarding docks and marinas.

While unauthorized docks and mooring buoys certainly exist and should be addressed through proper enforcement, the majority of infrastructure on Lakes Windermere and Columbia operate legally under provincial foreshore licences.

Many of these marinas and community docks have existed responsibly for decades and contribute to shared public access while paying significant annual fees to the province. Painting most lake infrastructure as illegal is not accurate.

Bill’s criticism of local government is also misplaced. His reference to another proposed marina approved by the District of Invermere does not align with any known municipal decision.

Public debate is healthiest when criticism is directed toward actual policies and actions rather than speculation.

Concerns about boating impacts deserve thoughtful discussion, but they also require context. Phrases such as “very high density of power boats” sound alarming without acknowledging when and where this actually occurs.

On Lake Windermere, higher boat traffic is generally limited to the north half of the lake during peak summer weekends and mostly in afternoon and early evening hours. Continued on page 9

been the CORE strategy in place for 33 years, the provincial government has never implemented the management or enforcement protocol for the central Purcell land use unit. Such areas like the Mt. Swansea bike trails are easy access and manageable front-country systems, but wild, back-country landscapes are a totally different challenge where the land alone has high levels of fragile eco zones, wildlife impacts, extreme weather patterns, and route finding concerns.

Standard mountain bikes, ebikes, and hikers have proven to not be compatible, user friendly activities but they all have one thing in common – the spider. The spider effect is man's desire and instinct to go where no one has gone before and on the alpine meadows of the high country bike tires cause a lot of damage to delicate soil horizons and plant species.

For many users these beauti-

ful places are a playground to go 'conquer the wild' to be recorded with selfies, but who collects their garbage, pays for the honeypots of outhouses to be heli-lifted, and the costs of search and rescue and creation of heli-landing zones for pick up?

Don't forget, due to steep terrain and compatibility issues of ebikes, mountain bikes, and hikers, there will need to be bike-up tracks, down tracks and separate hiking trails which means a big cost along with bar and lodge construction.

I assume private investors and high trail fees would pay for construction and year round operations to remove the financial burden on taxpayers. Personally, I don't see the reality of this proposal and its required 'master plan' but it's certainly a wild dream which is fun.

Pat Bavin, Invermere

COLUMBIA VALLEY CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

OUT OF OFFICE…

Business Best Ball Golf Tournament

The Business Best Ball Chamber Golf Tournament returns June 9th at Eagle Ranch! This year was sold out in record time, and congratulations to Chad Charette for winning the Early Bird draw for a swing analysis from Brian at Copper City Physical Therapy worth $600 – it can pay to be early! The Chamber is thrilled to announce that there will be not one, but two hole-in-ones this year, sponsored by Radium Brewing and Napa Auto Parts/Kool Country Towing! We also have a Closest to the Pin hole sponsored by Max Helmer as well as a Longest Drive Challenge hole; special thanks to Eagle Ranch and Mountain Home Productions for providing awesome prizes! Finally, Beat the Chamber will be sponsored by Palliser Printing, with the owner and Chamber President herself, Dee Conklin (& friends) presiding as challenger! Thank you to new hole sponsors: AirBnB, Copper Point Resort, and Valley Vibes as well as a heartfelt round of applause for those who continue to support the Chamber year after year: Cangas, Avail, Kootenay Insurance Services, Cranbrook Pest Control, Avenue, Tim Hortons, RFE Alarms, Mountain View Suites and Residency, Travel Columbia Valley and Aspire! A huge thank you to every single business who donated something to the Putting (sponsored by Sunlife!) and Chipping (cheers to Borealis!) Challenges this year – we are overwhelmed by the generosity of our members and can’t wait

for everyone to see the incredible prizes we have this year because of you! And to round out our sponsor shout-out, huge thanks to Canadian Tire for providing the wheels this year as Cart Sponsor, and to Scott Sauermann for keeping the party hopping as the 19th Hole Sponsor. The golf tournament is a vital fundraiser for the Chamber, a fantastic networking opportunity, and always so much fun! We can’t wait to see you at Eagle Ranch this year!

The Member Spotlight Online Auction is coming up as well – with the dates set for Friday July 10 – 24 this year, we are excited to highlight all the amazing products and services that our members offer! If you want to donate, please reach out to the Chamber (communications@ cvchamber.ca). If you want to bid, check out the links going out just before the opening day, or, even better, come see us at our Auction table at Valley Appreciation Day on July 18! We will have featured items there, as well as QR codes for every item so you can scan and bid at will! We already have some donations of old favourites and exciting new auction items – don’t forget to check it out!

We have an incredible business community in the Columbia Valley, and we at the CV Chamber of Commerce are thrilled to be a part of it!

-Deanna Berrington

Thursday June 4

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

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

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

Friday June 5

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

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.

Saturday June 6

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.

Sunday June 7

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

Kid Outdoor Rock-Climbing ages 6 -12.

Come join the ACC Bugaboo Section trips for some outdoor rock climbing.

When: May 24-31, June 7, 14, 21.

Cost: $20 for ages 6-12.

Limited spots. Must be a ACC member or sign a waiver. https://www.eventbrite.ca/e/1987861389929?aff=oddtdtcreator

Monday June 8

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.

Tuesday June 9

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.

10:30 -11:30am - Baby Goose at the Invermere Public Library. Come and learn songs and rhymes, listen to stories, and meet new friends! This program is free for babies and their caregivers! Hosted by CBAL. Registration required.

4:00 -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 June 10

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 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.

Letter doesn't reflect realities of lake use

Continued from page 7

Outside of those relatively brief periods, large portions of Lake Windermere and all of Columbia Lake remain quiet and lightly used.

For as much as 290 days each year, there are no motorboats on the lakes at all.

It is also important to recognize that natural processes such as wind, ice movement, runoff, and spring freshet contribute significantly to turbidity and shoreline change.

Any conversation about environmental impacts should consider the full picture rather than

attributing every impact solely to recreational boating.

Most residents, and the Columbia Valley Boating Association, would likely agree that protecting the lakes and maintaining recreational access are both important goals.

The Columbia Valley thrives because of balance: people paddle, swim, fish, sail, wakeboard, golf, ski, hike, snowmobile, and explore the outdoors in many different ways.

Each activity has some environmental footprint, which is why thoughtful management matters.

However, continually increasing restrictions on one group without clear evidence or balanced analysis risks creating unnecessary division in a community that depends on both recreation and tourism.

Constructive solutions come from respectful dialogue, sound science, and practical local understanding — not from overstating problems or dismissing the interests of others who also care deeply about these lakes.

Columbia Valley Boating Association

Evacuation alert issued for Fairmont Creek

By Steve Hubrecht steve@columbiavalleypioneer.com

The Regional District of East Kootenay (RDEK) has issued an evacuation alert for part of the Fairmont Hot Springs community.

The alert covers 97 properties, including multiple strata developments and campsites along Fairmont Creek. It was issued on Saturday, May 30, following sustained heavy rainfall, including 17 mm in just five hours at the Fairmont weather

station, with plenty more rain forecasted in the week ahead.

The rain came just as the annual spring ‘freshet’ (or runoff) was picking up, following a year when several spots in or near the Columbia Valley reported above-average or in some cases record-high snowpacks. This is a time of year that has seen several disastrous large-scale flooding or debris flow events in the Fairmont Hot Springs area in the past decade and a half.

Fairmont Creek had not overtopped its banks

at the time the alert was issued, but upper debris traps were filling with debris.

RDEK staff were on site, monitoring the creek, but strongly encouraged residents to sign up for the evacuation notification system.

Sinclair Canyon may see traffic delays

By Steve Hubrecht  columbiavalleypioneer.com

It could take a little longer than normal to leave or arrive in Radium Hot Springs en route to (or from) Banff and Calgary this summer.

This June, Parks Canada will start repairs to the Sinclair Creek rock tunnel on Highway 93 near the famous Radium Hot Springs pools, as well as on the retaining wall at the southwest end of Sinclair Canyon.

Driving through the slender gap of Sinclair Canyon on Highway 93, just beyond the Village of Radium Hot Springs-Kootenay National Park boundary, is one of the signature experiences of the Columbia Valley. But while the Sinclair repairs are underway, Parks Canada warns traffic may be reduced to single lane, alternating with possible delays of up to 45 minutes during peak traffic periods.

The repairs will run from June to October.

The agency outlined that the repairs are “critical infrastructure upgrades.”

The hot pools themselves and the bustling Redstreak campground will not be affected, but the popular pedestrian sidewalks through Sinclair Canyon will be closed, as will the southbound parking lot immediately to the north of the canyon, the northbound parking lot about 150 metres south of the canyon, and the bunkhouse area near the old West Gate.

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Senior girls place well at provincials

By Steve Hubrecht  steve@columbiavalleypioneer.com

The David Thompson Secondary School (DTSS) Lakers senior girls soccer team capped a stellar season with a fine performance at provincials last week.

The Lakers came eighth at the British Columbia finals held in Kamloops from Thursday, May 28 to Saturday, May 30.

“The girls are ecstatic. They’re really happy,” co-coach Ben Tregigdo told the Pioneer on the eve of the seventh-eighth place game against Revelstoke Secondary School.

He noted the conditions had been tough, with blazing hot temperatures, but that the Lakers had rallied and played well in spite of the heat.

During the group stage, the girls finished second in their pool of four teams,  starting off with a 0-1 loss against Duncan Christian School, then a 2-1 win over Vancouverbased Jules-Verne École Secondaire, followed by a 2-0 win over Fort St. James Secondary.

That put DTSS into a four-team knockout to determine 5th through 8th places. The Lakers lost the semifinal of the knockout 0-2 to Queen Margaret’s School from Duncan,

setting up the seventh-eighth showdown with Revelstoke.

Although the Lakers lost to Revelstoke 0-2 to finish eighth, “it was close all the way through. We were very well matched with Revelstoke, but they (Revelstoke) just seemed to have a little bit more extra energy to run a bit more than us.”

Last year’s DTSS senior girls also made provincials and finished 16th out of 16 teams in the tournament. That was the first time they’d been to provincials in a very long time and so was quite a feat. But this year’s Lakers wanted to see if they could improve on that result, and were delighted they did.

“We’re very pleased. Very positive vibes all around and target met,” said Tregigdo.

A week prior to the provincials, at a practice at Mount Nelson Athletic Park (MNAP) in Invermere, the Pioneer met with the Lakers, who were understandably excited about the tournament.

The team is mostly made up of Grade 11 and 12 students. They began practicing at the start of April, but as team member Embry Brunner pointed out, the same girls have essentially been playing soccer together at various club and school levels since they were about five or

six years old.

“We’re basically one big group of friends,” said Embry.

Several of the girls cited coming in second in the Cranbrook tournament earlier in the season, and holding the fearsome Cranbrookbased Mount Baker Secondary School team to a respectable 0-3 loss as a major turning point for the Lakers. Mount Baker has a much higher student population than most other East Kootenay high schools, and consequently competes in a higher tier at provincials. But when the Mount Baker Bears do play other East Kootenay schools, they typically trash them by very wide margins (think 12-1 or 9-0).

When the senior Lakers realized they could almost keep pace with

the Bears, they knew they could put together a special season.

The girls managed to reach the provincials by finishing third at the zones (thanks to a shootout win), but felt they hadn’t yet reached their full potential.

“We’re glad we got to provincials, but at the same time, we know we can play better than we did (in zone finals) where we got third. If we pull together, we can do really well,” said team member Holly Tregigdo.

The senior Lakers came good on that potential and then some — evidenced by the fact that the two East Kootenay schools that finished first and second in zones, ahead of DTSS, ultimately came in 13th and 14th at provincials.

ANNOUNCEMENTS

TEAM!

CELEBRATION OF LIFE

GERRY TAFT

250.341.1202

ROBIN SHMIGELSKY

250.342.1548 NEW BROKERAGE! NEW

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.

As previously announced, Mike Haltman peacefully passed away on January 29, 2026, at the age of 88.

We invite you to join us for a Celebration of Life on Saturday, June 20, 2026, from 2:00p.m. to 4:00 p.m. at the Windermere Community Hall in Windermere, BC.

Friends and family are welcome to attend and share memories. Refreshments will be provided.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Columbia Valley Food Bank.

George Arthur Gibson

November 9, 1929 – May 22, 2026

It is with great sadness that the family of George Gibson announces his passing at the age of 96 in Maple Ridge, BC.

George was born in Vancouver but lived in many small towns and villages throughout BC until residing in Radium Hot Springs for over 40 years. After the death of his wife Margie, in 2010, he moved to Coquitlam to be near his son Wayne, and family.

George worked in many fields such as fish canneries, ferries, furniture sales, construction, prison guard and motel owner.

George was an avid sports fan and a passionate player of baseball and lacrosse. He briefly played semi pro basketball and even played against the Harlem Globetrotters.

George had a positive attitude right until the end and a spirit of resilience no matter what challenges life delivered.

A mentor to many, George was also an active member of Alcoholics Anonymous for over 50 years.

George is survived by longtime companion Shirley Whitford, daughters Kim Leighton (Jack), Barbara Beaumont, sons Wayne Gibson (Jackie), Brian Gibson (Lorie), and grandchildren Bryanna (Nick) and Waylon.

George was predeceased by wife Claire, wife Margaret, sister Barbara Jaheny and step-son Rodney Wall.

A private celebration of life will be held in Coquitlam, BC on Thursday, June 11, 2026.

Employment Opportunity

Labourer

The usual hours of work are 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., five days per week (40 hours/week). Limited evening and weekend work may be required. Wage range $23.00 - $ 27.00 per hour, depending on experience.

The full job description is available on request.

Deadline to apply – This posting remains open until a suitable candidate is hired.

Applications (or questions regarding the position) may be sent to the attention of: Michael Glavin, Director of Engineering and Public Works: depw@radiumhotsprings.ca

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

Beside the Horsethief Pub

Radium Liquor Store is currently accepting resumes. The successful applicant will:

• Maintain a high level of customer service

• Maintain a high level of product and service knowledge

• Generate sales

• Participate in merchandising and promotional activities

• Ensure accuracy in all transactions, inventory, and procedures

• Participate in all manners of store maintenance

• Stock shelves with product

• Work in partnership with Store Managers and other employees to maximize store sales and in-store presence

• Maintain a professional appearance, demeanor, and attitude at all times

• Rate established based on position and experience

Experience in retail and/or hospitality would be an asset.

We offer professional and personal growth through educational opportunities. If you are interested in working in a fun productive environment submit resume to:

Mike Paquin

radiumliquorstore@gmail.com or hand deliver to Radium Liquor Store, 7538 Main Street East, Radium Hot Springs, attn: Mike Paquin

CHEERS CHEERS

Cheers to the Windermere School staff and parents for running a well-organized track and field meet on May 27 at the DTSS Track. In addition, I appreciated their respectful and encouraging attitude towards students, appreciating their efforts. Students, too, had positive attitudes, supporting their classmates and friends. It was fun to watch!

Cheers to the Spur Valley Cantina for the for the Taco Tuesday special. It was delicious!

Cheers to Jason, Lori and Reikel of Woody’s Plumbing for the first class care they give to me and my property. You are the best!

Cheers to the Horsethief and Mayor Mike for the two incredible hot lunches provided to the students of Edgewater Elementary School this year. Your support to EES students is greatly appreciated!!!

MOVING SALE

Sale dates are June 6/7 (Best Selection) & June 13/14 (Best Deals). Items include: gardening tools (incl. shovels, picks, pails etc.), household furniture, bar fridge (new), pressure washer, dehumidifier, window air conditioner (near new), furniture moving cart, hide-a-bed with matching love seat, desk, etc. Also golf clubs, bed sheets (new).

107-4874 Edelweiss St. Radium

Information Meetings

AREA G JUNE 9 7:00 PM

EDGEWATER COMMUNITY HALL 4818 Selkirk Ave – Edgewater

Fairmont and District Lions Club Garage Sale

Saturday, June 6 10:00 - 4:00PM

Sunday June 7

10:00 - 4:00

Lions Den 5003 Hot Springs Road Fairmont Hot Springs

SERVICES

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

Multi Family Garage Sale Cul de Sac at 5109 Riverview Close, Fairmont Hot Springs.

Saturday June 6, and Sunday June 7 at 9 am. Household items, furniture, clothes, tools, golf items, bikes and more.

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

Saturday June 6 10:00 - 2 1919-13th Ave, Invermere Something for everyonegames, puzzles, kitchen items, toys, dance wear, office and store supplies, books... Plus scrapbooking store clear-out (stock up with a box for $15.00). You don't want to miss this.

AREA F JUNE 18 7:00 PM

WINDERMERE COMMUNITY HALL 4726 North St – Windermere

To begin the evening, we will honour Area G Volunteer of the Year: JOHN HAGUE

This meeting is open to everyone from Area G and will provide information and updates on the following projects and services:

• FireSmart • Five-Year Financial Plan

• Rural Transfer Station Optimization Project

BUOY TAGGING SYSTEM

To begin the evening, we will honour Area F Volunteer of the Year: RAYLENE ORAM

This meeting is open to everyone from Area F and will provide information and updates on the following projects and services:

• STR Process Update • Five-Year Financial Plan

• Rural Transfer Station Optimization Project

Over the coming weeks, the Regional District of East Kootenay (RDEK) will continue the process of tagging the mooring buoys on Lake Windermere. This process began last summer, approximately 130 buoys were tagged with approximately 160 remaining.

If you have a buoy in the lake that is not tagged or you would like to place a new buoy and are unsure if it would be permitted, please complete the form available online at New Buoy Tagging System - Lake Windermere | Engage East Kootenay and forward to Kim O’Farrell, Compliance Officer, kofarrell@rdek.bc.ca. This form is not an application form or registration form; it is a request to review the location of the proposed or existing buoy to determine whether the placement complies with the Columbia Valley Zoning Bylaw. Buoys must be clearly marked with the owner’s name, address, phone number and “PRV”.

Buoys located within the area of the lake where water zoning has been adopted will be tagged as follows:

GREEN TAG This buoy conforms with the regulation and is compliant

BLUE TAG This buoy is non-conforming but considered to be grandfathered and must be placed/removed on an annual/seasonal basis. If use is discontinued for a year, any future use must comply with the regulations. RED TAG This buoy may have been placed contrary to the Zoning Bylaw. These buoys may be subject to removal if the owners do not contact the RDEK to confirm eligibility.

Residents and property owners can learn more about the Transport Canada Regulations, view copies of the Columbia Valley Zoning Bylaw and Lake Windermere Management Plan and see samples of the new tagging system online at engage.rdek.bc.ca/buoy or by contacting the RDEK.