Columbia Valley Pioneer - August 6, 2026

VALLEY VIEWS

The Columbia Valley Rockies are currently looking for families interested in becoming billet families for the upcoming hockey season. The team is in need of permanent billet families for the full season, as well as 10 temporary billet beds available until the middle of September.

Families will receive a monthly stipend of $850 to help offset the cost of housing a player.

If you’re interested in becoming part of the Rockies family and making a difference in a player’s season, or would like more information please reach out to cvrockies.coach@gmail.com

Invermere councillor to step down

By Steve Hubrecht  steve@columbiavalleypioneer.com

Longtime Invermere councillor and former Invermere mayor Gerry Taft will not seek re-election in this fall’s municipal election.

When Taft steps down in October, it will be the end of a municipal political career stretching back nearly a quarter century

He’s calling it quits in part because he feels it’s a good time to go — current councillors are good and many of them plan to run for office again, so council will likely remain stable from this term to next, he says — and in part to be able to dedicate more time to his wife and kids, his real estate career, and other personal projects.

“I’m in a really good spot right now to leave on a high note. Despite what it might seem sometimes, this position is not my whole life,” he told the Pioneer

Taft first ran for council in 2002, when he was just 20 years old, and was elected as a councillor. He held that position through two terms, then was elected as mayor in 2008. He was mayor for three terms over the course of a decade, up until 2018, before stepping back from that role and being a councillor again for two more terms from 2018 until now.

This means Taft, who is now 46, has been on Invermere council for quite literally more than half his life.

He’s seen tremendous change, both in Invermere and in life in general across his time in office.

“There was no social media when I started, let alone smart phones,” he said. “I was a still a bit of a kid myself then, and I grew up through the process of going to these (council) meetings and other (municipal and regional political) events.”

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Continued on page 4

EXPRESSION OF INTEREST Property Management Services

The Shuswap Band is inviting qualified property management companies to submit an Expression of Interest (EOI) to provide property management services for our off reserve properties that include:

• Parson School – Parson, BC

• Two Residential Homes – Invermere, BC Services include regular property inspections, preventative maintenance coordination (lawn care, snow removal, seasonal maintenance), contractor coordination, emergency response, and property reporting.

Interested proponents should submit a company profile, relevant experience, references, proposed management approach, and fee schedule.

Submission Deadline: August 20, 2026

For additional information or to submit an Expression of Interest, please contact:

Shuswap Band – Lands Department

Email: sstump@shuswapband.ca

The Shuswap Band reserves the right to accept or reject any or all submissions and is under no obligation to proceed with this Expression of Interest.

RCMP REPORT

By Sgt. Jeff Witzke Columbia Valley RCMP

The Columbia Valley RCMP recently received a Garmin SOS for a hiker who became ill.

A search and rescue crew attended the scene via helicopter and returned the hiker to safety where they were taken to the hospital for assessment.

In another incident, the Columbia Valley RCMP were made aware of a missing person near Lake Lillian. The missing had not been seen in over three hours. The search crew was engaged along with several residents and visitors who aided in the task. Thankfully the missing person was located and reunited with their family.

On July 25 the Columbia Valley RCMP were contacted via iPhone emergency satellite for three stranded hikers near the Bugaboo Provincial Park. Search and rescue technicians were dispatched, however, due to the darkness they could

not attend until first light at which time the hikers were helped off the mountain. One of the hikers had sustained a knee injury and required medical attention.

The next day police were made aware of a brush fire behind the Edgewater transfer station. Wildfire crews and a helicopter were quickly on scene and were able to contain the fire before it grew out out of control and spread toward Edgewater.

The RCMP would like to acknowledge and thank search and rescue personnel, local firefighters, wildfire crews, helicopter pilots, BC Emergency Health Services (EHS), and the doctors, nurses, and hospital staff for their dedication and hard work during the first half of the summer.

It has been an exceptionally busy start to the season in the Columbia Valley, and their professionalism, commitment, and tireless efforts have played a vital role in keeping residents and visitors safe.

Taft not seeking re-election

Continued from page 3

Taft has experienced plenty of both high points and low points on council during the past 26 years, including the high of seeing the thennew Columbia Valley Centre open in 2017 (“getting it designed, funded and built was such a big undertaking for the community,” he said), and the low of being sued in a defamation lawsuit related to Invermere’s deer cull, which incidentally was also in 2017 (“it really did nearly bankrupt me” he said).

He’s proud that the Invermere councils he served with were always able to function in a civil and nonpartisan manner. Taft says that’s not always the case at the federal or provincial level, and even in some municipalities, these days. And, he noted, it wasn’t always the case in Invermere, either.

“In the 1980s and 1990s, the District of Invermere unfortunately had a history of very negative infighting. Sometimes past mayors felt they

had to leave town,” he said. “I’m glad we never had anything like that. We may not have always agreed, but there were no major fights, drama or scandals.”

But on a less positive note, Taft is somewhat disheartened because he thinks local governments have become less effective at delivering service over the past two decades, thanks to increasing bureaucracy. “It’s not a political thing, it’s more just about how our systems works ... it seems to me that in a lot of cases we almost have ‘over regulation’,” he said.

Taft is willing to help out anyone interested in running for Invermere council in the fall election, saying “I’m happy to sit down and chat with them, explain what the role is and what it involves. If you’re a team player, you have an open mind, and you’re in it for the right reasons you should put your name forward.”

Come October, Taft said he’ll be glad for “more family time and hopefully some travel that is not focused on UBCM and other conferences.”

Lussier springs to temporarily re-open

By Steve Hubrecht  steve@columbiavalleypioneer.com

The Lussier hot springs in Whiteswan Provincial Park may temporarily re-open this fall.

The largely natural hot springs lie not far southeast of Canal Flats and are very popular with valley residents and visiting tourists alike. And why not? Large rocks arranged around the springs have created several pools of varying temperatures (from piping hot to pleasantly lukewarm) to dip in, all in a dramatic setting at the bottom of the Lussier Gorge, with the icy Lussier river rushing by.

The Lussier springs are often touted as a less developed alternative to the bigger, more commercial and often busier Radium Hot Springs and Fairmont Hot Springs pools.

But since January this year the Lussier hot springs have been closed, after provincial park staff found large, dislodged rocks in the upper

pool and a compromised retaining wall. A geotechnical review confirmed unstable rock features, and given the risk to public safety, the pools and the path down to them have been shut ever since, while BC Parks assesses its options.

To help stabilize the site while it is closed, material from the damaged retaining wall has been moved within the upper pool area as a temporary measure.

But not everybody has been patient with progress, and local residents fed up with waiting launched an online petition on Change.org, calling for a clear plan and timeline to re-open the hot springs, as well as better communication and regular updates on progress.

The petition has — digitally — gathered nearly 2,300 signatures.

The Pioneer reached out to petition organizer Shelby Thompson for comment, but Thompson did not reply.

But the provincial Ministry of Environment and Parks did give an update, explaining in a

statement that BC Parks “is working on a shorterterm temporary opening plan which we hope to implement by early fall 2026.”

At the same time, the agency is still working on a long-term redesign and construction plan for repairs and improvements to the hot springs.

“We hope to open temporarily starting later in 2026 and begin construction (on the long-term fixes) after spring runoff in 2027,” read the statement.

Asked if there would be public consultation on the project, the ministry said that “BC Parks is working on a broader communication strategy including public engagement.”

Ripple effect of drug crisis

The drug crisis gripping British Columbia and communities across Canada is often discussed through statistics: overdose deaths, emergency room visits, crime rates, and public health costs. But behind every number is a person, and behind that person is a network of family members, friends, co-workers, neighbours, and loved ones whose lives are also deeply affected.

For many Canadians, addiction does not begin with the intention of becoming dependent on drugs. It may start with experimentation, attempts to cope with trauma, mental health struggles, chronic pain, or social pressures. What begins as occasional use can gradually develop into a powerful addiction that changes the course of a person's life.

The consequences extend far beyond the individual. Parents spend sleepless nights wondering if their child will come home safely. Spouses watch relationships deteriorate under the weight of substance use. Children experience instability and uncertainty. Friends often struggle with feelings of helplessness as they watch someone they care about disappear into addiction.

Communities across British Columbia have felt the impact. Healthcare workers, first responders, social service agencies, and law enforcement officers face increasing demands as they respond to overdoses, mental health crises, and the complex challenges associated with substance use disorders. These frontline professionals carry an enormous emotional burden while attempting to save lives and support those in need.

The financial costs are equally significant. Taxpayers fund emergency medical responses, hospital care, social services, policing, and community support programs. Businesses face losses from theft and property crime, while residents express growing concerns about safety.

Crime is one of the most visible consequences of severe addiction. Many individuals caught in the cycle of substance dependence find themselves committing theft, fraud, or other offences to obtain money for drugs. While criminal behaviour cannot be excused, addiction often drives desperate actions that would have once seemed unimaginable to the person involved.

Continued on page 7

Canada's drug crisis: the ripple effect

Continued from page 6

This reality fuels an ongoing debate. Some argue that substance use begins as a personal choice and that individuals must take responsibility for their actions. Others point out that addiction is a complex medical condition that can fundamentally alter brain function, decision-making, and impulse control.

The truth often lies somewhere in between. While the first decision to use a substance may be voluntary, addiction can eventually reach a point where stopping is far more complicated than simply choosing to quit. Recovery frequently requires professional treatment, ongoing support, stable housing, counselling, and a strong support network.

For families and friends, the journey can be equally challenging. Many experience emotional exhaustion, anxiety, depression, financial hardship, and feelings of isolation. They often struggle to balance supporting their loved one while protecting their own well-being.

Saskatchewan has become a focal point in Canada's addiction debate after introducing and passing legislation that allows for involuntary addiction treatment in certain severe cases. The province's new Compassionate Intervention Act is designed for individuals whose addictions have reached a point where they are unable to seek help on their own and are considered a serious risk to themselves or others.

Under the legislation, family members can apply through the courts to have a loved one assessed for treatment. Police and other authorities may also intervene when an individual's substance use creates an immediate danger to themselves or the public. The government argues that the law is intended

as a last resort for the most extreme cases, not as a replacement for voluntary treatment programs.

The Saskatchewan government reports the initiative is part of a broader recovery-oriented strategy that includes expanding treatment spaces, increasing detox capacity, and investing more heavily in mental health and addiction services.

The province has committed funding to add hundreds of treatment and recovery spaces while creating additional secure detox options for youth and adults.

Supporters of the legislation argue that many families have spent years watching loved ones cycle through overdoses, homelessness, emergency rooms, and the justice system without meaningful intervention. They believe there are situations where addiction becomes so severe that individuals lose the capacity to make decisions that are in their own best interests. For these families, compulsory treatment represents an opportunity to save lives before tragedy occurs.

Critics, including some medical organizations, have expressed concerns about involuntary treatment. They argue that recovery is often most successful when individuals willingly participate and warn that compulsory treatment requires strong safeguards, oversight, and adequate treatment capacity.

Some experts have also raised questions about long-term outcomes and whether involuntary treatment alone can address the root causes of addiction.

The debate highlights one of the most difficult questions facing Canada today: At what point does society intervene when addiction has stripped away a person's ability to help themselves? Communities want safer streets, businesses want less crime, families want their

loved ones back, and individuals struggling with addiction deserve a chance at recovery. Saskatchewan's approach is an attempt to balance those competing realities.

Whether this model becomes a blueprint for other provinces remains to be seen. What is certain is that Canadians are increasingly asking how to protect individual rights while also ensuring public safety. The challenge is finding solutions that are compassionate enough to help those suffering from addiction while effective enough to restore confidence that communities are safe places to live, work, and raise families.

Experts stress that addiction should be approached with both accountability and compassion. Communities need effective law enforcement to address crime and public safety concerns, but they also need accessible treatment programs, mental health services, recovery resources, and prevention initiatives.

The drug crisis is not someone

else's problem. Its effects reach into schools, workplaces, hospitals, businesses, and homes across Canada. Whether directly or indirectly, everyone pays a price when addiction takes hold of individuals and communities.

Yet amid the challenges, there remains hope. Thousands of Canadians recover from addiction every year. Families rebuild relationships. Communities develop innovative support programs. Recovery is possible, but it requires understanding, resources, and a commitment to helping those affected find a path forward.

If you or someone you know is struggling, support is available. Canadians experiencing a mental health or suicide crisis, or those concerned about a loved one, can contact the 9-8-8 Suicide Crisis Helpline by calling or texting 988 for free, confidential support available 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

All Night Wrong Premieres in the Columbia Valley

This August 21 & 22, the Columbia Valley will celebrate the local premiere of All Night Wrong, a feature film shot entirely in the Columbia Valley. Join us for this exclusive two-night premiere and see the Columbia Valley on the big screen.

Hosted by Travel Columbia Valley, Columbia Valley Community Economic Development, the Invermere Film Festival, and the District of Invermere, this red-carpet event is a chance for our community to celebrate being back on the big screen.

When the production team arrived in the Columbia Valley, the community stepped up. Businesses welcomed cast and crew. Property owners opened their doors. Some folks even had the opportunity to work on set, behind the scenes and on camera! This film truly became a community effort.

One of the film’s featured locations was The Lido Motel in Radium Hot Springs. For owners Val Efimov and Robbie Percival, seeing their business become part of the production was an unexpected highlight.

“When we took over The Lido Motel, we knew we were taking on a property with a lot of history, but we never imagined we’d be watching it on the big screen,” said Val Efimov. “What we love most is that the motel was chosen for exactly what makes it special, its authentic character and nostalgic charm. Every day we meet guests who have their own memories of The Lido, and it’s exciting to know that the motel is now part of a story that will create new memories in a completely different way. We’re honoured and grateful to be responsible

for a place that means so much to both visitors and the community.”

The Lido wasn’t just a filming location. It also hosted members of the cast and crew throughout production, giving the owners a front-row seat to the filmmaking process.

Many residents also had the chance to experience life on set.

Angela Mainland spent two evenings working as an extra, first during the party scene filmed at Pynelogs and then again in the alley beside Selkirk.

“It was very interesting and heartwarming to see so many people gathered together to work on one focused creative goal,” she said. “As a local, I really enjoyed talking to the crew about the Columbia Valley and what it has to offer for film projects and its unique beauty. I really think the production of All Night Wrong will kickstart more films being created here. When that happens, I’ll be anxiously

waiting to be part of them.”

For those who worked on the film, the premiere is a chance to look back with pride. For everyone else, it is an opportunity to see the Columbia Valley through a different lens.

Over the past several years, the Columbia Valley has been working to grow its screen-based industry. Local organizations have invested in crew training, location scouting, film-friendly policies, and industry partnerships. All Night Wrong proves that where there is a will, there is a way.

Productions bring business during quieter seasons. They fill hotel rooms. They support restaurants, caterers, transportation companies, retailers, tradespeople, and countless local businesses. They also create opportunities for residents to build careers in the screen industry without leaving home.

All Night Wrong shows what is possible. It demonstrates that the Columbia Valley is more than a beautiful backdrop. It is a place where stories can be told and a film industry can grow.

Whether you hosted a crew, worked on set, appeared in the background, or simply felt the buzz and energy during filming, this is your chance to celebrate what we accomplished together.

We hope you’ll join us for this special celebration August 21 (Friday) & 22 (Saturday) at the CV Centre Theatre; get your tickets now online on the Invermere Film Festival website: iffmovienights. eventive.org. Doors open at 6pm, the movie starts at 7pm!

Thursday August 6

August 6 - 9 - Minor Baseball - 2026 13U A East BC Provincial Championships. Columbia Valley Minor Baseball is proud to welcome teams from across British Columbia at Crossroad Ball Park and Pynelogs Rotary Ball Park.

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.

1:00pm - Storytime in Canal Flats. Canal Flats Lions Park . Join us for stories, songs and a craft. Geared towards preschool age, but all welcome to attend. 1:30pm - Floor Curling at the Invermere Seniors Hall.

1:45 - 2:45pm - Summer Reading Club in Canal Flats. Canal Flats Lions Park. For kids in grade 1-7. One-time registration required. Free program with crafts, games and fun!

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, including people who have never tried it before.

Friday August 7

9:00am - Tennis for Everyone - Columbia Valley Mixed Doubles Tennis, Rotary Park Tennis Courts.

10:30 -11:00 - Pop-Up Story Time - Mt. Nelson Skate 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.

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

Saturday August 8

Loop the Lake - Register today at loopthelake.ca.

50th Annual Lakeside Event returns! Canada's longest running light aviation meet held at Mt. Swansea and James Chabot Beach. Hosted by the Columbia Valley Hang Gliding and Paragliding Society.

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.

1:00pm - Traditional Pow Wow - Columbia Lake Recreation Centre. Celebrate community, culture, and tradition in this welcoming, alcohol and drug free event. 4:00 - 6:00pm - Meat Draw and 50/50 in the Legion. Members and guests welcome.

Sunday August 9

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

Monday August 10

9:00am - Tennis for Everyone - Columbia Valley Mixed Doubles Tennis, Rotary Park Tennis Courts.

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.

11:00AM - 3:00PM - Know what's in your supply. Ankors drug testing Shuswap Band Health Centre, 9975 Kinbasket Trail 1:30pm - Cribbage & Darts at Invermere Seniors Hall.

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

Tuesday August 11

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. 2:00 - 3:30pm - 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

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Wednesday August 12

New director for CV Chamber of Commerce

By Steve Hubrecht  steve@columbiavalleypioner.com

The Columbia Valley Chamber of Commerce has a new executive director.

Chris Insull took over the role in July, after longtime executive director Pete Bourke stepped down. Insull is a very familiar face to those who regularly deal with the chamber, having served as the organizations manager of administration and operations for nearly five years, starting in 2021.

When he spoke with the Pioneer a couple weeks ago, Insull was 21 days into his new job and it “was so far so good ... I’m excited to take this (role) on, learn some new things, and put my own stamp on the chamber as we keep doing what we do to support businesses in the valley.”

Insull is originally from Winnipeg, where he worked as a professional photographer and camera shop manager for 14 years. He and his wife Kristin moved to the Columbia Valley in 2021, part of a wave of new residents at the time inspired (or pushed) by the COVID-19 pandemic to leave larger urban centres and live somewhere smaller and more outdoorsy.

“We were looking past Canmore and Banff, which can get busy and crowded at times, for something a little quieter,” said Insull.

The Insulls were already familiar with the Columbia Valley, having come here on vacation several times in the past.

On their first-ever visit, they stayed in Radium

Hot Springs and hiked to Floe Lake in Kootenay National Park.

“After that, it sort of became our default summer holiday spot,” explained Insull.

The couple now live permanently in Radium. Kristin found work as a vice principal with Rocky Mountain School District Six.

Chris knew he wouldn’t get a job running a camera store here in the valley (where there aren’t any camera stores), but soon ended up at the chamber.

He’d never worked at a nonprofit before, so there was a steep learning curve, but he loved it.

“There’s always something new, something else to learn about,” said Insull. “I’m someone who likes doing. I like to get my hands into things.”

Insull credited Bourke with helping him learn the ropes and forming a great team at the chamber. “He (Bourke) really did an amazing job,” said Insull.

Those compliments were returned by Bourke, who told the Pioneer that Insull is “incredibly capable” and “has a natural, genuine interest in the work.”

Bourke stepped down as executive director in order to have more time to pursue other projects, both personal and professional, and to be able to split his time between the valley and Vancouver.

“It’s been an incredible ride in terms of the work, the impact we had, and the connections made,” Bourke said of his seven and a half years leading the chamber.

Pickleballers to get dedicated outdoor courts

Columbia Valley Pioneer staff

Invermere pickleballers don’t have dedicated outdoor courts to call their own quite yet, but they will very soon.

Local officials and Invermere Pickleball Club (IPBC) members gathered together earlier this summer for a ground breaking ceremony for the new the Pynelogs pickleball courts. The project will see eight pickleball-specific courts built just to the north of the Pynelogs Rotary

ball diamond, in the northeastern-most corner of the public parkland and greenspace encompassing Kinsmen Beach, Dorothy Lake, the Pynelogs Cultural Centre, and the old CPR Lodge.

It’s been a long time coming for pickleballers, who have been lobbying Invermere councillors for such a space for the better part of four years.

914 – 8th Avenue, PO Box 339

Invermere, BC V0A 1K0

Tel: (250) 342-9281

Fax: (250) 342-2934

NOTICE OF PROPOSED PROPERTY DISPOSITION AND INTENT TO PROVIDE ASSISTANCE

Pursuant to Sections 24 and 26 of the Community Charter, and in accordance with Section 94, notice is hereby given that the District of Invermere (“District”) intends to directly dispose of District-owned property. The purpose of the disposition is to facilitate the development of attainable rental housing for workforce and employment needs.

Notice is further given that the District intends to provide assistance to the Columbia Valley Housing Society (“CVHS”) by transferring the subject property for less than market value.

Description of Property:

Civic Address: 214 10th Avenue (subject property as outlined in red on the map below).

Legal Description: Parcel A (See 145490i) Lot 6 Block A District Lot 375 Kootenay District Plan 1052. (PID: 013-920-961)

2026 BC Assessment Value: $190,000

Consideration

The District of Invermere will receive consideration in the amount of one dollar ($1.00) for the transfer of the property.

For inquires concerning the proposed disposition, please contact the District of Invermere at (250) 342-9281 or by email at info@invermere.net.

"The Invermere Pickleball Club is excited to see this project move forward. The sport has exploded across Canada and the demand for courts in the valley has far exceeded what we have available. The IPBC looks forward to being in a position to run tournaments, offer pickleball clinics and continue to expand (its) junior and adult programming,” club president Lisa McIntosh explained to the Pioneer.

The courts will cost $660,000, and two of them will be wheelchair accessible. Construction could begin in a few months, with the club even hoping to possibly play on some of the new courts as early as

the fall. The facility should be complete in 2027.

"This is quite the day, and we've been waiting for this for a long, long time," said Invermere mayor Al Miller in a press release. "I quite honestly think this is going to be a great spot”

The project is currently funded with money from the District of Invermere through the Resort Municipality Initiative (RMI), along with community fundraising and some initial grants. The IPBC will seek the rest of the money through sponsorships, grants and other fundraising.

Acoustic fencing will be put around the courts to reduce noise for nearby residents, and to make things safer for pickleballers (given the courts' close proximity to the ball diamond and the chance for foul balls).

EXPRESSION OF INTEREST

OFFICE RENOVATIONS

The IPBC currently plays at the Mount Nelson Athletic Park (MNAP) during warmer months (and indoors at the curling rink in winter), but the MNAP courts are multi-use, and disagreements have arisen in past years between pickleballers and other user groups, in particular basketball players. IPBC representatives have consistently asked Invermere council for more dedicated pickleball time at the MNAP courts, but councillors have just as consistently, stuck with the current multi-use sharing arrangement.

The Village of Radium Hot Springs invites expressions of interest for VILLAGE OFFICE RENOVATIONS at 4836 Radium Blvd.

Scope of work includes:

• Renovation of approximately 3500 ft2 of office and meeting rooms including:

• Minor structural changes

• Interior framing and finishes

• Electrical, plumbing and mechanical additions & updates

Interested parties may request project details or request a site visit from Wayne Gamborski, Building/Plumbing Official at 250-347-6455 or building@radiumhotsprings.ca

Expression of interest will close on August 31, 2026

IPBC members accounted for roughly 5,000 MNAP court visits last year, and recreational pickleball play by non-members doubled that number. The club's annual tournament, currently held indoors on four courts, drew about 200 participants this year. The new eight-court facility will let the club to host larger tournaments, coaching sessions, and camps.

To donate or sponsor the project, visit www.ipbclub.ca.

?Akisq'nuk study Lake Windermere groyne

By Steve Hubrecht  steve@columbiavalleypioneer.com

The ?akisq’nuk First Nation is conducting a study to find out more about the cultural history of the rock weir (often also called a ‘groyne’) across the mouth of the Columbia River at the north end of Lake Windermere.

The groyne has been the subject of much talk in the past, and Public Services and Procurement Canada (PSPC) has said for several years

that it would do something with the structure, including possibly removing it.

But before that happens, the ?akisq’nuk First Nation want to find out more about the groyne’s past.

“We believe it could be built on an old fishing weir that may have been built or used by Indigenous people,” ?akisq’nuk director of lands and resources Lorne Shovar explained.

The study involves reviewing historical documents and archives, as well as interviewing elders and

other traditional knowledge holders to gather oral histories.

“We also wanted to do some underwater archaeology on it (the groyne) to make further determinations, but it’s been hard to secure funding for that,” added Shovar.

The ?akisq’nuk have partnered with Victoria-based Reciprocity Research Inc. on the study, and once it is complete they will send it to PSPC.

“The Ktunaxa (of which the ?akisq’nuk are a constituent nation) historically would build structures in the Columbia River to facilitate

fishing,” explained ?akisq’nuk chief administrative officer David Bach, adding there are two such barriers elsewhere in the river.

“Our elders told us that they think that is what this (the Lake Windermere groyne) could be. We are trying to get the facts and share that information with the federal government before they do something with it,” said Bach.

If the groyne was built by Ktunaxa ancestors, it might qualify for protection.

Wildfires harmful to our watersheds

Watershed

Wanderings

By Samuel Kendler

Samuel Kendler is the watershed stewardship assistant for the Lake Windermere Ambassadors.

Wildfire season is upon us. With higher heat and less snowfall over the winter months, it makes it easier for forest fires to start and possibly get out of control.

Smoke is one of the most noticeable effects we see here in the Columbia Valley.

Aside from worsening the air quality and giving an orange hue to the horizon, it affects our lakes as well.

Smoke essentially slows down the biological processes occurring,

such as plant growth. Smoke blocks sunlight and can cause photosynthesis to slow down.

Since oxygen is released as a byproduct of photosynthesis, it can lower the dissolved oxygen levels in the lakes needed to sustain balanced aquatic ecosystems.

Another interesting relationship that is still being studied is that although wildfire smoke itself does not appear to directly cause cyanobacteria (blue-green algae) blooms, wildfires and their smoke can create conditions that may increase the likelihood of blooms in some British Columbia lakes. This can happen when wildfires burn forests, then rain or wind washes ash, phosphorus, and nitrogen into lakes and reservoirs. These nutrients act as fertilizer for algae growth, including cyanobacteria.

When Lake Windermere was sampled in 2022, Phytoplankton densities were found to be moderate

in the southern sample site while the northern sites had very high densities and were dominated by the potentially toxic cyanobacteria Anacystis sp.

A fire starting in our watershed is not out of the realm of possibility, so what would happen?

A major fire event could burn through valuable vegetation, loosening the soil, which would cause more erosion on creeks and increase turbidity.

Water quality and water chemistry in the lakes would be directly affected, being polluted by ash, excess nutrients and debris which can be harmful to local freshwater ecosystems. This water may then be harder to treat, especially concerning for the communities that rely on the water as a drinking source. Furthermore, the aftermath deposits, phosphorus and nitrogen, would increase eutrophication.

The process of a lake becoming

nutrient dense, which promotes algae blooms and possibly losing the ability to support aquatic life.

As you can see, wildfires can be harmful for our watershed. Although smaller, less hazardous fire events can be beneficial in restoring ecosystems and supporting new life, this is not the case presently.

With climate change, the Columbia Valley is seeing less snowfall and less precipitation throughout the year, making fire seasons last longer and possibly more aggressive.

Although small, you can do your part as well. Make sure your property is fire safe, by removing debris that could act as fire starters or that can be a source of fuel. Also stay informed.

In 2024, British Columbia released the Fire Safety Act. Information on fire safety and being fire smart can be found on their website.

PIONEER CLASSIFIEDS

ANNOUNCEMENTS ANNOUNCEMENTS

NOW AVAILABLE: FORGOTTEN WINDERMERE

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.

CONDO FOR RENT

2 bedroom, 2 bathroom fully furnished with 2 underground parking stalls at the Pinewood in Radium. Fully secured. $1650 month. Cable and internet not included. Available Sept 1. 403-999-2783

120 pages of historic photos documenting the early history of the Windermere Valley, from Bisco to Canal Flats including Invermere, Radium and Fairmont. Forgotten Windermere is available at:

Four Points Books

Lambert- Kipp Pharmacy Pharmasave Windermere Museum Crossroad Market/Esso

Cheers to Cherrie Burke for sharing your knowledge to help a friend. Much appreciated.

Cheers to Dina at Pharmasave Health Centre for the great customer service. Even though it was at the end of the day, you didn’t rush me in making a purchase.

Cheers to Ashley Smith formerly of Red Apple. You were such a ray of sunshine in that store. Sorry to see you go.

Cheers to Krista at Service BC We appreciate your assistance.

Cheers to Murray of Zen Technology for returning my telephone call on Saturday and coming to my rescue when scammers tried to break into my computer. Your quick action prevented a disaster.

Cheers to Nate and Tom of Hi-Way 9 Trucking in Golden. You have both done a fantastic job of doing our weekly deliveries. It has been great working with you these last couple of years. I’ll miss seeing you and chatting with you each week.

In Loving Memory of Robert Alfred Beck

May 3, 1948 - July 23, 2026

Robert “Bob” Alfred Beck, born May 3, 1948, in Calgary, Alberta, passed away peacefully at Invermere Hospital on Thursday, July 23, 2026, at the age of 78.

Bob is survived by his loving wife of 54 years, Judy; his daughter, Jennifer (Corey) Gerein; and his cherished grandsons, Cooper and Owen. He is also survived by his beloved sister, Barb (Fred) Dyck; his sister-in-law, Linda Mitchell; his brother-in-law, John Mitchell; as well as his loving nieces and nephews.

Bob proudly served as a firefighter in Calgary for 33 years, retiring with the rank of Captain. His years of service were a great source of pride, and throughout his career, he formed many lifelong friendships. One of Bob’s greatest sources of companionship was his love of animals, especially the many dogs he and Judy shared over the years.

Following his retirement, Bob and Judy relocated to Fairmont Hot Springs, British Columbia, where they embraced the mountain lifestyle and built many lasting friendships. An avid golfer, Bob spent as much time as he could on the area’s golf courses, enjoying the game and working as a golf course marshal. Retirement also gave him the opportunity to pursue new passions, including downhill skiing, fly fishing, and oil painting. He also became a devoted fan of the Toronto Blue Jays and enjoyed regularly watching the CFL. Bob was predeceased by his parents, Leo and Emily Beck; his brothers, Jack (Lyla) and Bud (Thelma) Beck; and his special niece, Joanne Palmer.

The family would like to extend their heartfelt gratitude to the many wonderful friends and health care professionals (especially Dr. Brown) who supported Bob throughout his recent health challenges.

A celebration of Bob’s life will be held at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the Canadian Cancer Society or a local SPCA.

Big shout out to the Invermere Fire Department, BC Ambulance Service & Columbia Valley Search & Rescue Team for outstanding efforts in rescuing an injured cyclist on Legacy Trail. Cheers to doctor & nurse. A total Team effort plus STARS to rescue the cyclist. As Trial Ambassador CHEERS.

Cheers to Jaye at Selkirk Cellulars. You are patient and a very good teacher. I am grateful for your help.

Cheers to Mountain Home Productions for bringing in Blue Rodeo, Melissa Etheridge and their openers. What a great weekend of live music!

A BIG Cheers to the Brigade Team for their outstandng maintenance and clean-up services on the Markin McPhail Westside Legacy Trail, especially with now having the 4 legged critters - cows grazing on the Trail - as a Trail Ambassador CHEERS!!

Bookkeeper / Finance Coordinator

Eagle-Eye Tours is seeking a detail-oriented and highly organized person to provide ongoing bookkeeping and finance support for our specialty tour company. Based in Invermere, we are Canada’s largest birding tour operator.

Core responsibilities include:

• Recording and maintaining accurate financial transactions

• Assisting with payroll, GST, accounts payable, accounts receivable, and financial reporting

Requirements include:

• Bookkeeping, accounting, or finance-related training & experience

• Strong spreadsheet and computer skills

• Excellent attention to detail and organizational skills

This is an opportunity to play a key role in a growing, missiondriven travel company. We offer a competitive wage, benefits, flexibility, interesting work, and a collegial, positive work environment. We anticipate work beginning as soon as you are available.

Please see eagle-eye.com/careers for more information and to apply. Application deadline is August 16 by 5 pm

Find a digital replica of the print edition of the Pioneer online, available early morning every Thursday at columbiavalleypioneer.com

Help Wanted Front Desk Administrator

We are looking for a friendly, reliable, and organized Front Desk Administrator to join our team, part-time or full-time for the right person..

Responsibilities:

• Greet and assist clients in a professional manner

• Answer phones and respond to inquiries

• Schedule appointments

• Process payments and maintain accurate records

• Perform general administrative and office duties

Qualifications:

• Excellent customer service and communication skills

• Strong organizational and multitasking abilities

• Basic computer skills (Microsoft Office and email)

• Previous front desk or administrative experience is an asset

• Attention to detail is a must

Position Details:

• Part-time or full-time

• In-office position

If you enjoy working with people and have strong administrative skills, we’d love to hear from you!

Please send your resume to advertising@columbiavalleypioneer.com or apply in person at The Columbia Valley Pioneer, Invermere, BC, or call 250-341-1111.

NOTICE

NOTICETOCREDITORS,HEIRS,ANDOTHERCLAIMANTS

IntheMatterofthe IndianAct,R.S.C.1985c.I 5asamended,andinthematteroftheEstateof

No.

2026 GENERAL LOCAL ELECTIONS

PUBLIC NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN AS FOLLOWS: NOTICE OF

NOMINATION

Nominations for the offices of: Mayor (1)

Councillor (4)

And for the School District No.6 (Rocky Mountain) Trustee Electoral Area 3: School Trustee (1)

will be received by the Chief Election Officer or a designated person, as follows:

By hand, mail or other delivery service:

District of Invermere Box 339, 914 – 8th Avenue

Invermere, BC V0A 1K0

By fax to:

250-342-2934

By email to: info@invermere.net

From 9:00 am September 1, 2026 (MDT) To 4:00 pm September 11, 2026 (MDT)

Excluding statutory holidays and weekends

From 9:00 am September 1, 2026 (MDT) To 4:00 pm September 11, 2026 (MDT)

Excluding statutory holidays and weekends

Interested persons can obtain information on the requirements and procedures for making nominations including nomination forms at the District of Invermere beginning August 4, 2026 during regular office hours (8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.) Monday through Friday) to the close of the nomination period.

QUALIFICATIONS FOR OFFICE

A person is qualified to be nominated, elected, and to hold office as a member of local government if they meet the following criteria:

• Canadian citizen;

• 18 years of age or older on general voting day October 17, 2026;

• resident of British Columbia for at least 6 months immediately before the day nomination papers are filed (prior to March 10, 2026) and

Beatrice Martha Stevens

Beatrice Martha Stevens ?Akisq'nuk First Nation

intheProvinceofBritishColumbia,DECEASED

June 24, 2026 August 31, 2026

Gayle Michel

3251 93/95 Hwy

Windermere BC V0B 2L2

Noticeisherebygivenpursuanttosection8oftheIndianEstatesRegulationsthatallcreditors,heirsandother claimantshavingclaimsordemandsagainsttheEstateofthesaid whodiedonorabout ,arerequiredtosendbypostprepaidorto deliveronorbefore to: theirnamesandaddresses,fullparticularsoftheirclaims,statementoftheiraccounts,andthenatureofthe securities(ifany)heldbythem.

AndtakenoticethataftersuchlastmentioneddatetheAdministratorwillproceedtodistributetheassetsof thedeceasedamongthepartiesentitledthereto,havingregardonlytoclaimsfiledbeforethatdateorwhich theMinisterordersmaybelaterreceived,andthatthesaidAdministratorwillnotbeliableforthesaidassets oranypartthereoftoanypersonorpersonsofwhoseclaimsnoticewasnotfiledbythatdateunlessthe Ministerordersitmaybelaterreceived.

Windermere

Datedat , ,on Administrator/Executor 172(01),

Gayle Michel British Columbia June 26, 2026

SWIM LESSONS

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

• not disqualified under the Local Government Act or any other enactment from voting in an election in British Columbia or being nominated for, being elected to or holding the office, or be otherwise disqualified by law.

CAMPAIGN PERIOD EXPENSE LIMITS

In accordance with the Local Elections Campaign Financing Act, for the 2026 general local election, the following expense limits for candidates during the campaign period apply:

Mayor

Councillor

School Trustee

$12,323.78

$6,161.89

$6,161.89

THIRD PARTY ADVERTISING LIMITS

In accordance with the Local Elections Campaign Financing Act, for the 2026 general local elections, the following third party advertising limits apply:

Mayor

Councillor

School Trustee

$924.28

$924.28

$924.28

For further information on the nomination process, please contact: Kindry Dalke, Chief Election Officer 250-342-9281 ext. 1228

Dean McKinley, Deputy Chief Election Officer 250-342-9281 ext. 1225

For further information on campaign period expense limits and third party advertising limits, please contact Elections BC: Toll-free phone: 1-855-952-0280

Email: lecf@elections.bc.ca Website: www.elections.bc.ca/lecf

Amanda Nason at 250-341-6299 x102 or advertising@columbiavalleypioneer.com

2026 GENERAL LOCAL ELECTIONS

Are you eligible and registered to vote in the 2026 RDEK General Local Elections for Electoral Area Directors or School District No. 5 and School District No. 6 Trustees in Electoral Areas B, F or G?

RESIDENT ELECTORS:

This year the RDEK has updated its election registration processes and will now be using the Provincial Voters List, prepared by Elections BC, for resident elector registrations. If you are an eligible resident elector and would like to make sure you are on the Provincial Voters List, you can register or update your information with Elections BC before August 18, 2026, at www.elections.bc.ca or by calling 1-800-661-8683. Eligible resident electors may also register at the time of voting.

NON-RESIDENT PROPERTY ELECTORS:

Non-resident property electors must register directly with the RDEK. Advance registrations for non-resident property electors will be accepted at the RDEK office in Cranbrook until 4:30 pm on August 25, 2026. After that time, eligible non-resident property electors may register only at the time of voting.

To find out if you are registered as a non-resident property elector you can visit the RDEK office at 19 – 24 Avenue South, Cranbrook, by calling us at 250-489-2791, or by sending an email to elections@rdek.bc.ca. The office is open from 8:30 am to 4:30 pm Monday to Friday (excluding statutory holidays).

ELECTOR QUALIFICATIONS

RESIDENT ELECTORS:

• 18 years of age or older on the day of registration;

• a Canadian citizen;

• a resident of British Columbia for at least 6 months immediately before the day of registration;

• a resident of the specific RDEK electoral area; and

• not disqualified under the Local Government Act or any other enactment from voting in an election and not otherwise disqualified by law.

NON-RESIDENT PROPERTY ELECTORS:

• 18 years of age or older on the day of registration;

• a Canadian citizen;

• a resident of British Columbia for at least 6 months immediately before the day of registration;

• a registered owner of real property in the specific RDEK electoral area for at least 30 days immediately before the day of registration;

• the only persons who are registered owners of the property, either as joint tenants or tenants in common, are individuals who are not holding the property in trust for a corporation or another trust;

• not entitled to register as a resident elector;

• not disqualified under the Local Government Act or any other enactment from voting in an election and not otherwise disqualified by law; and

• if there is more than one registered owner of the property, only one of those individuals may, with the written consent of the majority of the owners, register as a non-resident property elector.

LIST OF REGISTERED ELECTORS

Beginning September 1, 2026, until the close of general voting for the election on October 17, 2026, a copy of the list of registered electors will be available for public inspection at the RDEK office in Cranbrook, during regular office hours. Before inspecting the list, a person must sign a statement that they will not inspect the list or use the information included in the list except for the purposes of Part 3 – Electors and Elections of the Local Government Act. An elector may request that their address or other personal information about them be omitted from or obscured on the list of electors. The elector must contact the Chief Election Officer or the Deputy Chief Election Officer to make this request.

OBJECTION TO REGISTRATION OF AN ELECTOR

An objection to the registration of a person whose name appears on the list of registered electors may be made in accordance with the Local Government Act until 4:00 pm on September 11, 2026. An objection must be in writing and may only be made by a person entitled to be registered as an elector of the specific RDEK electoral area and only on the basis that a person whose name appears on the list of electors has died or is not qualified to be registered as an elector.

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION, on these matters, the following persons may be contacted at 250-489-2791 or 1-888-478-7335:

Tina Hlushak, Chief Election Officer

Nikki Bradshaw, Deputy Chief Election Officer

19 – 24 Avenue South, Cranbrook BC

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| 1-888-478-7335 | info@rdek.bc.ca | www.rdek.bc.ca