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JANUARY 3, 2013
1927-2013
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Vol. 61, Issue 2
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Kimberley accordion festival calls it quits after 39 years KIOTAC Committee cites economy, increasing costs
C A R O LYN G R A N T Daily Bulletin
It has always been the granddaddy of Kimberley festivals. It was the first, and for many, the face of Kimberley, an institution. It’s the Kimberley International Accordion Championships, and the new year begins with the news that there will not be a KIOTAC in July of 2013, nor will there be one again. “It is with a heavy heart, that we the Executive Committee, make this announcement today,” wrote Jeany Irvin, Chair of the KIOTAC Committee in a letter to patrons, accordionists, volunteers and Kimberley Mayor and Council. “The Kimberley International Old Time Accordion Championships will not continue its long history as an event. After a number of years of increasing costs and falling revenues, it has become apparent that the event is no longer economically sustainable. After 39 years it is quite apparent that attempting to host an exemplary and meaningful event would be a detraction from the many years of success that
the event has entertained.” “It’s a loss,” said Mayor Ron McRae. “It’s been 39 years of a major event, a huge accomplishment for all the volunteers who supported it.
“It wasn’t an easy decision to make, but we’d rather go out on top than fall on our face. It’s been a good run.” Jeany Irvin KIOTAC Committee Chair
“It could be a reflection of a changing economy, not just with Kimberley, but in general terms, and changing demographics. “Those who have attended and supported KIOTAC in the past are aging. “It’s really unfortunate and there will be an economic effect. We’ll feel it. Most of the organizers had such a long history with the event and I’m sure it was a difficult decision, one not made lightly.” ANNALEE GRANT PHOTO
See KIOTAC , Page 4 Comment , Page 7
BRAND NEW IN 2013: It took three days into 2012 for there to be a New Year’s baby at the East Kootenay Regional Hospital, but for 2013, baby Sylis just couldn’t wait. The baby boy was born to mom Nikki Rossetti at 4:20 p.m. on New Year’s Day, January 1.