South Shuswap Scoop January 2023

Dedicated Snowblazers Volunteers Maintain Fly Hills

By Barbra Fairclough

The Salmon Arm Snowblazers volunteers ride and maintain the family friendly Fly Hills Snowmobile Area. Located just outside of Salmon Arm to the west, it is easily accessible from Highway 1.

Sandy Milne, President of the Salmon Arm Snowblazers confirms there is a long history of sledding beginning sometime in the seventies. In the early years, activities took hold with a casual group of folks and as interest grew, the club became a registered nonprofit society. Sandy acknowledges the dedication and hard work of the many volunteers, “Over the years there has been an amazing infrastructure that volunteers have built.”

The club, through partnership with Recreation Sites and Trails BC maintains over 200 km of trails and the facilities in the Fly Hills trails area. Through trail fees collected from trail users, trails are maintained and groomed, and warming huts

are well kept. Important necessities like chopped wood and toilet paper mean that facilities are comfortable and go a long way to make a day of sledding more enjoyable.

Fees help to maintain and pay for trail grooming equipment and the five warming huts located throughout the trail system. The newest hut is the largest at 12 x 12 ft. Fondly called “Harvey’s Cabin”, it is named after a long time dedicated volunteer who has passed. Sandy speaks highly of the volunteers and says, “We strive to treat our volunteers well.”

In December, the BC Snowmobiling Federation announced that member clubs received $500K in funding through Pacific Economic Development Canada- Tourism Relief Fund. As members of the federation the Salmon Arm Snowblazers benefit from this grant with the acquisition of a trail groomer.

Snowblazers Facebook photo

Dedicated Snowblazers Volunteers Maintain

Fly Hills continued from front

“This year you will see the retirement of the old blue tractor as we introduce the BR180 Bombardier snowcat.” says Sandy Milne. “Thanks to club member Jason Parent for heading up the procurement team and Tim McCoy and Tyler Kosick for heading to Smithers to pick up this “new to us” unit.”

As with any used equipment, club volunteers are working through the minor gremlins to ensure the reliability of the machine on the mountain ensuring safety for grooming operators. Sandy confirms “Your trail fees and memberships support initiatives like this.”

Sandy describes the club atmosphere as being one of great times and good people. All kinds of folks are welcome to join in on events. The club hosts a variety of fun gatherings throughout the riding season.

To welcome everyone back there is usually a fall ATV poker run in September or October prior to snow. Friends are welcomed and everyone’s interest is peaked for getting out on sleds in the incoming winter season. The Fly Hills Tour and Open House is a wonderful place to learn on the trails and meet other riders. Information about various poker runs through the season is available on its Facebook

page.

Sandy says members number around fifty and new folks are always welcome.

They enjoy a good relationship with the ATVers who ride in the area during summer months. It helps keep everything maintained and it keeps vandalism down, Sandy adds.

Some trails have sweeping vistas of the surrounding lake area. Other sledding areas near Sicamous are visible and there is also a view of mountains towards Kamloops.

Trails are groomed at least once per week. Good trail signage makes getting around easy without worrying about getting lost.

With the new highway improvements, access to the Silver Creek Road from Hwy one is through the new exits and through the roundabouts. Be sure to check for directions prior to coming out. The Fly Hills can be reached by a graded forest service road. At the top you have a great parking area with cement blocks placed by banks for easy loading and unloading.

Salmon Arm Snowblazers Facebook is one of the best ways to find out more. Message them or call 250 833 4833.

2022 A Year in Review

By Barbra Fairclough

When we did our year in review last January, we made a nod to a change in weather to bring magic for us this year. 2022 was a year of change.

An overriding story for 2022 was incorporation.

INCORPORATION AND GOVERNANCE

Incorporation Study shifted to the public engagement phase with open houses in January. A panelist discussion followed in February with officials from other jurisdictions bringing their experience to the discussion.

In March the regional district board supported a referendum on Incorporation. On April 30, those who voted chose to not incorporate. The new default change was the separation of Area C into two areas, C and G.

In 2022 we also saw Area C and

F Directors, Paul Demenok and Jay Simpson make a delegation to school district 83 to make a case for Sorrento High School to be added into the long range plan.

After ten years as Area C director, Paul Demenok retired leaving the field open for new candidates when the local government nomination period began Aug 30.

Nick Najda and Marty Gibbons entered the race for position of Area Director for the new Area C. Natalya Melnychuk was unchallenged for Area G Director. School District Trustee candidate Corryn Grayston was also unchallenged in her bid for the position. On election day, October 15, Marty Gibbons was confirmed director for Area C.

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Area G Director’s Scoop -

Natalya Melnychuk, PhD

Electoral Area G (Blind Bay, Sorrento, Notch Hill, Carlin) Email: NMelnychuk@csrd.bc.ca

Happy New Year

January, as always, is a time for new beginnings. For Area G, the beginnings are endless. Bylaws, maps, and other pieces of material are being adjusted to reflect this new jurisdiction. Plans are scheduled to be updated such as the Area’s Liquid Waste Management Plan and the Community Wildfire Resiliency Plan. Loftus Lake (next to Balmoral Road) is scheduled to become a park. 2023 is certainly shaping up to be a busy year.

As the Area’s Director, I am striving to be at the interface between the community and the Regional District as this progression happens. I will aim to listen to the interests of constituents and community groups, facilitate community conversations and help, through

participation at the CSRD Board table, make strategic decisions that are for the benefit of our Area G’s current and future residents and the broader Columbia Shuswap region.

This all said, one of the first topics on the docket for 2023 is a proposed Telus cell phone tower for Sorrento. The tower, if constructed, will provide improved high-speed internet access and wireless service to the Sorrento community. I have heard from multiple people already on this proposal. One concern that has been raised is that the period for public engagement is too short and not thorough enough as it overlapped with the holiday season. We heard this concern and will extend the engagement period and include an opportunity for an online town hall meeting. The meeting has been set for the evening of February

23rd. A meeting advertisement will be posted in the papers and through social media.

I welcome people to voice their thoughts on this proposal. The best ways to do this are to complete the survey provided in the proposal on the CSRD website: https://www.csrd.bc.ca/485/ Cell-Tower-Proposals or to attend the public meeting. You are also welcome to reach out to me. I hope that in all these interactions, people will remember to be respectful of the diversity of views that exist in our community. It is important to also think critically of the origin of information used to support different ways of thinking. We all have the freedom to voice our opinions but I hope as adults we can all be sensitive and aware of how to share our views in a polite way and in appropriate places.

Having not had the opportunity to meet the community during the election, newly acclaimed candidates Director Melnychuk and School district Trustee Grayston hosted a public meet and greet for residents.

Morgen Matheson CSRD Shuswap Tourism Team Lead, was elected to the board of Okanagan Tourism Association.

COMMUNITY SAFETY

Last year saw community safety emerge in the news.

In January, the CSRD approved an application to the Disaster and Adaptation Fund for the erosion mitigation project for Newsome Creek, but no grants for the project have been announced.

Shuswap Mara Lake Decibel Coalition announced a bid for a quieter lake with nearly 700 people commenting to Transport Canada in the process to have a decibel limit set.

The Shuswap Marine Search and Rescue announced celebration of its ten year anni versary May 14 with the two res cue boats Tolonen and Rescue One in the main dock area in Sicamous. Volunteers performed maintenance in May of all the Kids Don’t Float Kiosks. On May 18, a groundbreaking ceremony was held for the start of a boathouse project in Sicamous.

Director Paul Demenok wrote about the CSRD request proposal for Community Wildfire Resiliency Plan for Electoral areas C and D.

The Shuswap Emergency Program chose the ALERTABLE app for mass

notification system for residents and visitors alike.

PARKS AND PUBLIC SPACE Park announcements were timely with post pandemic gatherings beginning again. Halls readied for opening and began improvement projects.

Notch Hill received $32,000 from the Community Works Fund at the Feb CSRD board meeting in support of a new water well and water treatment system that will allow the hall to open its kitchen.

Corryn Grayston announced the Sorrento Community Association is making plans for physical improvements to the Sorrento Memorial Hall and is

Loftus Lake Fen and the Eagle Bay Community Park at Eagle Bay Hall. Shuswap Trail Alliance is working on the final design plans and phase two for a dog park and trailhead parking at Loftus Lake.

December CSRD announced partnership with Shuswap Trail Alliance for the maintenance of Sorrento Blind Bay Park.

The South Shuswap Trail Planning Project began at the end of May.

ENVIRONMENTAL

The second major algae bloom in three years happened on Shuswap Lake. Interior Health issued a cautionary cyanobacteria advisory June 28, recommending the public avoid contact with the bloom. The advisory was lifted July 14 after two quality samples tested negative for the toxin that can be associated with cyanobacteria blooms. On June 29, Interior Health issues Beach Water Advisory for Sunnybrae Beach due to unacceptable e coli levels.

exploring the in terests of the community.

The Eagle Bay Community Association announced a $79,365 grant for hall upgrades to improve accessibility. Work continues through the year on the community park development at the Eagle Bay Hall.

Parks got a boost in 2022. Blind Bay Sorrento Community Park improvements to a multipurpose sports court announced with $40,000 grant.

CSRD announced funding for

This high return year of the salmon in the Adams River brought the Salute to the Salmon Festival to welcome the salmon home. From September 30 (National Truth and Reconciliation Day) to October 23, Salute to the Sockeye took place. The festival opened with a Secwepemc prayer followed by a grand entrance.

In October Shuswap Watershed Council called for more action and intervention from the province to prevent future algal blooms, in a letter to

With Our Thanks

By Barbra Fairclough

Twelve issues and 536 pages later we take a moment to give our thanks to everyone who has contributed to the SCOOP in 2022.

Advertisers, the support you bring makes it possible for us to fund the production of this community newsletter. This is so instrumental, and it keeps us moving forward. When the first issue of the SCOOP was published it was eight pages and black and white. We have come along way.

It’s so important to be able to bring the paper close to our readers and we also thank the myriad businesses who have been wonderful partners in distributing the SCOOP. The SCOOP is easily accessible at newsstands, store fronts and offices thoughout the Shuswap.

And our gratitude to our column and article contributors. The many non-profits who share event updates and interesting neighbourhood and community viewpoints. As well our community leaders keeping us informed and updated.

Thank you to our readers, who make it all worthwhile. Many tell us they are always pleased to be able to pick up a SCOOP and hang on to it, dog ear the pages and refer to it until the next month’s issue comes.

The community is the news in every issue of the SCOOP.

The very first issue of the SCOOP was printed in April 2016. Our goal was to create a sense of community and network with non profit organizations, residents, and businesses by sharing news, events, services, music, and art in and effort to get the SCOOP out about what is going on in the South Shuswap. We also wanted to create a place where businesses could advertise their goods and services to locals and visitors.

Our gratitude to the many advertisers, writers and contributors who have supported this goal with the SCOOP in 2022.

All of us at the South Shuswap SCOOP extend a heartfelt thank you to everyone for making 2022 a wonderful year. We all welcome and look forward to continuing our work with you in 2023.

2022 A Year in Review

(continued from page 5)

George Heyman, Provincial Minister of Environment and Climate Change Strategy.

November the province announced permanent regulatory changes banning the widespread sale and use of rodenticides. Residents will need to use other methods of pest control such as traps and removing food sources.

WildSafeBC program operated in Area C for its second year.

CONNECTION

After two years of retreat due to pandemic conditions, residents take steps to gather and connect again.

Shuswap Community Foundation invited the community to Gathering of Gratitude in June. Dr. Melany Dyer said, ”We want to bring together the people we have a touchstone with.”

During the pandemic when so much went online it was difficult for many to connect through the internet. The fragmented internet connections in the South Shuswap are being addressed with proposed Telus and Rogers cell towers in the area.

CSRD offered sustained funding for South Shuswap Transportation Society for its South Shuswap Rides Service as part of the Area C Transit function.

Jean Luc Degroseilliers created initiative to bring Ukrainian families to refuge in Canada. Community rallied and Ukrainian families were supported.

Sorrento Lions moved to their new home at Lions Manor after 49 years at the Sorrento Memorial Hall.

In September we reported CSRD suspends proof of vaccination for Firefighters and Directors.

Nonprofits moved to online fund raising as with Copper Island Health doing online 50 50 draws.

Sorrento minor ball made a call out for coaches with several kids on a wait list.

Carlin Hall announced a return to programming in March. Sunnybrae Hall coffeehouses are well attended now that 100% capacity is allowed, Cedar Heights sites two years of pandemic in their excitement of resuming activities in March.

Shuswap Economic Development

emerged with John Reed at the helm and work began on an economic development plan.

A year of change and transition and coming back together gives

fresh perspectives and renewal for the months ahead.

Thanks to everyone for 2022 and here’s to an enriching and prosperous 2023.

South Shuswap Chamber

Honoured to be Living & Working on the Traditional, Ancestral & Unceded Lands of the Secwepemc People

By Karen Brown, Executive Director

A NEW YEAR BRINGS NEW PROJECTS

Happy New Year! The Board for the South Shuswap Chamber of Commerce would like to wish the communities of the Shuswap a very Happy New Year. As 2023 is now here, the Board turns its attention to focusing on new projects for the year. Here’s what’s ‘in the works’.

ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING

The Chamber will be hosting its Annual General Meeting on February 27, 2023 at Cedar Heights Centre. Following a cocktail hour and networking from 6:30 to 7:15, the meeting will commence at 7:30 pm.

At this time we are putting out an all-call to any of our full-time members! You are welcome to run for the Chamber’s Board of Directors. The new Board for 2022/23 will be installed at the AGM in February. If interested, please contact Executive Director Karen Brown who will forward you an Expression of Interest for Directorship.

In the meantime, please mark the 27th of February, 6:30 pm on your calendar to attend the annual Wine & Cheese / Annual General Meeting event at Cedar Heights Centre.

DEVELOPMENT OF A NEW STRATEGIC PLAN

The Chamber was successful in its application to the Economic Trust of the Southern Interior for $15,000 to cover the development of a new Strategic Plan. An RFP (all call for

those interested in leading the planning process) has gone out in this issue and on social media to contract a consultant to lead the Strategic Plan with the Chamber’s Board, membership, partner organizations and community stakeholders.

The Strategic Plan when complete, will allow the Board to review the comments and input received from its members and from the community to develop a Work Plan for 2023. The Chamber is committed to reviewing the plan along with its colleagues from Shuswap Tourism and Shuswap Economic Development Society to see where efficiencies can improve and collaboration can occur to strengthen all organizations and avoid duplication of work.

EXPANSION OF OUR MEMBERSHIP

The Chamber grew by 10% in 2022 and has now reached over 160 members! We welcome all businesses in the Shuswap to become a full-time or partnered member with our Chamber. During the months of January and February, you will see testimonials shared by our current members speaking to the value they receive through the South Shuswap Chamber and the benefits to one’s business once a member. So join us! Online registration with the South Shuswap Chamber can be found: southshuswapchamber.com/become-a-member

DEVELOPMENT OF A LOCAL WORKFORCE

The Chamber is collaborating with other community organizations such as the Shuswap Economic Development Society, Salmon Arm Economic Development Society, Work BC and Community Futures to address the lack of workers available to fill job vacancies in our area. This is the #1 chal-

Stay

Shuswap waterfront owners are faced with new and changing regulations from all levels of government.

• We successfully lobbied local and provincial governments to allow for larger docks.

• We advocate for waterfront owners rights and keep our members informed of their responsibilities

• We continue to monitor the activities on the Shuswap Watershed Council and stress responsible use of taxpayers dollars

• We actively support local and provincial efforts to prevent the introduction of Zebra and Quagga mussels to BC.

• Our board members have over 300 years of experience on the Shuswap, and are familiar with issues like the new changes to the Federal Fisheries Act

• We continue to keep our members updated on the status of buoys and their removal

A two year membership of $50 will help you to stay current on issues, give you access to expert advice and to the SWOA website with information on lake regulations associated with living and building on the lake.

Shuswap Waterfront Owners Association go to SWOA.ca and click JOIN SWOA For more information email info@swoa.ca

Do you own waterfront property on Shuswap or surrounding lakes?

informed with SWOA

lenge affecting most businesses; the Chamber is committed to working with local business owners to recruit and place workers to fill the anticipated vacancies for 2023.

CANADA SUMMER JOBS HIRING OPEN

Business owners are reminded that Canada Summer Jobs is now accepting applications for subsidizing summer workers. Applications deadline is January 12. For info & application: www.canada.ca/en/employment-social-development/services/funding/canada-summer-jobs.html

CONTINUING THE WORK: DOTHESHU.COM

Do the Shu, a website created to support economic development, shopping local and tourism based operators in our area, is going strong. The response to this new website has been absolutely amazing as visitors to the area seek experiences, accommodations, dining and cultural activities to take in. As well, the site features all our businesses, organizations and also features recommendations by locals and video footage showcasing the best of what we offer here in the Shuswap. All our businesses receive a complimentary listing on DotheShu as well as our Chamber website. For more information, contact Jacquie at assist@southshuswapchamber.com

BE INVOLVED IN THE CHAMBER!

Committee involvement for the Chamber does not mean you have to be on the Board of Directors. Serving on any one of our committees is open to all members. Currently we have vacancies open on the following three committees: Tourism & Visitor Services, Economic Development and Membership. If interested, please connect with Karen Brown.

CSRD December Board Meeting

By Jo Anne Malpass

Concerns about Impact from Recycle BC Proposed Plan- Addressing concerns about the “significant financial impact” from a stewardship draft plan received from Recycle BC for stakeholder feedback, the Columbia Shuswap Regional District Board at its December meeting, approved sending a letter to the Minister of Environment.

If implemented, these changes could mean a significant financial impact of approximately $90,000 annually for recycling services or possibly result in a reduction in the level of recycling services offered through the CSRD, says a report from Ben Van Nostrand, Team Leader – Environmental Health Services.

Because of the proposed community eligibility criteria, nine of 17 existing CSRD Recycle depots would no longer be eligible for funding from Recycle BC for the collection and recycling of packaging and paper materials. Only the depots in Salmon Arm, Revelstoke, Golden and Sicamous would meet the eligibility criteria.

If the proposed “community eligibility criteria” is enacted, and the CSRD sought to continue providing the existing service, the CSRD would be required to fund the transport of Recycle BC materials collected from the out of service depots (known as satellite depots), assuming Recycle BC would consider granting satellite depot status to the nine depots. The CSRD would also be responsible for offsetting the greenhouse gas emissions from all trips associated with servicing these satellite depots, whereas Recycle BC is currently responsible for these offsets. Consumers would be responsible for paying

both on the front end (through eco fees collected at time of purchase), and on the back end for the recycling of the materials (through taxation for depot collection services). This is clearly at odds with the provincial mandate to have stewards pay 100% of the costs for the collection and recycling of their stewardship materials, says the report.

If the CSRD chose not to operate non-criteria recycling depots, many communities would no longer be funded by Recycle BC, creating a significant decrease in access to services for residents in the CSRD’s electoral areas.

Because other regional districts will also be impacted by the proposed criteria, staff in those regions are approaching their boards for support. CSRD staff will also prepare a resolution for SILGA, the Southern Interior Local Government Association and ultimately the Union of BC Municipalities.

In other business at the meeting:

Connecting Communities BC Fund - The Board authorized letters of support to TELUS’ and Rogers Communications’ applications to the Fund in their efforts to increase Internet connectivity in the region.

Rogers would like to apply to connect households in rural areas located in Electoral Areas C and D. Telus application is for rural areas around Chase, Adams Lake, Turtle Valley, Sorrento, Blind Bay and Notch Hill.

These grants require support from local government. Shuswap Economic Development has been doing testing in the future, this data can be used by the CSRD to promote areas that are underserved.

Shuswap Watershed Council letter to Interior Health - The Board directed the Chair to sign a letter expressing concerns with Interior Health’s communications regarding algal blooms in area lakes and suggesting some improvements to the process moving forward. Although warnings were issued when the blooms were reported, the advisory caused some confusion among residents and visitors recreating on the lake.

CSRD Solid Waste Management - The Board agreed to begin the process of updating the solid waste management plan for the entire regional district including a public consultation process. The Board also authorized a contract with Morrison Hershfield to complete the review, update and renewal of the CSRD’s Solid Waste Management Plan for a total cost not to exceed $160,000. This will go into the CSRD budget for 2023 and 2024.

The next CSRD Board Meeting will be held Thursday, January 19, in the CSRD board room and via Zoom.

Eagle Bay Fire Department

By Jeremy Wozniak

Happy New Years to you and yours from all of us at the department. We hope that your holidays were wonderful and filled with those you love. We are all very excited to see and be a part of this great new year to come.

Spring started a little late which helped keep the open fire danger level low for a while until the dry spell came. At one point the regional open fire bans were lifted yet everything was still very dry in our area. Good job everyone and thank you for using discretion and holding off a little longer with open burns.

Winterizing and getting winter ready aren’t always easy and winter came abruptly and caught some of us off guard, yet we’re ready now.

Now is the time to join as it gives the new recruit time to practice the skills needed to be prepared for live fire training in the spring and fall. We are currently 22 members strong and are close to having a full complement of fire fighters. If you’ve been reading these Scoop articles and are still sitting on the fence… Now is the time… Not how do I find the time. Recruitment is constantly a challenge, so if you are interested in joining us, please give our Fire Chief Alan Rendell a call 250-517-0429 and he will try to answer any questions you may have and can arrange for you to come and have a look around the Fire Hall. All training is provided, and members are paid on-call.

Thank you to our Fire Chief Alan Rendell, Deputy Chief John Edry, Training Officer Cathy Maralia and Nigel Collett our Captain. They put themselves out there to the community showing us

at

leadership and drive. Always preparing for the worst yet anticipating the best, getting us all trained up and prepared for hopefully nothing. There are those times however when all this dedication does pay off and that is what we are all about. You know who else is prepared? The street sanders and your neighbours. They’ve been on top of the changing conditions. Teamwork makes the dream work.

Last year there were 18 callouts. We started the year with a chimney fire, received several downed Hydro Line calls, a structure fire on Ivy Road, a few false alarms, several burn complaints, a motorcycle and truck accident, a boat fire in WRB, a Telus tower power line fire, a camper van fire and lastly a jackknifed lorry on Eagle Bay Road. 2021 had 20 incidents and 2020, 21. Let’s be proactive again this year to keep the trend downwards.

Last but not least thank you to all of those who supported and continue to support the Fire Department Association. Your donations have greatly helped with our ability to keep on supporting our community where it matters.

You can keep up to date on lots of fire related and fire department news on our “Eagle Bay Fire Department” Facebook page or

Jack-knifed semi-truck near power lines on Eagle Bay Road during a year end storm (Photo credit: Margaret McCormick)

on Instagram. You will also find more information about current burning regulations and the CSRD’s FireSmart initiatives.

Boat Rescue Base Construction Under Way

By Barbra Fairclough

Optimistic that the Shuswap Royal Canadian Search and Rescue (RCMSAR) boat rescue base in Sicamous will be operational for boats coming in or out by May 2023, construction is under way.

The new building will protect assets worth $1,000,000. Response vessels as well as operational supplies and equipment will be housed.

In 2021, Shuswap RCMSAR #106 saw the second highest number of station rescue missions in British Columbia. With this volume of rescue missions increasing and the need for year-round preparedness, the new boathouse will dramatically reduce the amount of hours volunteers spend on maintenance to keep vessels in top operating condition.

Twin Anchors is constructing the pontoons. Like so many construction projects, timelines are being driven to a degree by supply chain issues causing delay in materials arriving. Unfortunately, this is true for doors and windows. The rescue base will be constructed in two sections.

The RCMSAR has a ten-year moorage lease with Olde Town Bay. The lease was a requirement for the grant conditions. A preferred location would be in the Sicamous channel. The master plan for the base has been conceived so that at a time in the future when moving is required, it can be deconstructed into two manageable and moveable portions. In the meantime, they continue to seek out a longer term location option in the Sicamous channel.

The Rescue Base needs four 60’ pontoons for floatation, providing two mooring bays for the two Rescue Vessels. The first was nearly complete when this photo was taken in early December, with the remaining pontoon components sitting off to one side, waiting to be joined together and welded. (Shared from RCMSAR Facebook page)

Each section will rest on two pontoons, constructed with precision welds making pontoons waterproof. The rescue base needs to be built in two halves each on two pontoons and then once constructed they will be trucked to the lake and floated, and the two halves joined. Then the roof components go on.

The boat rescue base has everything needed in one place.

Shuswap RCMSAR Director

Cliff Doherty confirms that there will be a “ready room,” and this part will be constructed by the volunteers.

The ready room will house uniforms, response gear, washroom facility and a sit down table. Classroom space is not a requirement due to facilities in the community nearby. The response room will enable volunteers to have a warm location for quickly available gear so when there is a call out gear is readily available, and wet gear can be housed after a call to dry out as needed. The sit down table is where mission details can be discussed prior to deployment. From here there is a direct gangway to the boats waiting outside.

A next step would be to install solar panels. Putting solar on the roof will take pressure off the need to fundraise to pay for utilities. The Rescue Base would be self sufficient. Cliff confirms this would be a separate and potential next project.

Cliff says “We are continuing to seek donations to help us. The charitable organization of Shuswap RCMSAR, responsible for funding for the rescue base, was given $100,000 by donors in the last five or six years.

Project manager Pat Gau, Vice President RMSAR deals

SD83 School Trustee – Area 3

By Corryn Grayston

Happy New Year to all our community members! I hope everyone had a safe and enjoyable holiday season and I look forward to representing students, parents, caregivers and our community as we embark on new projects and plans for the future growth and development in 2023 and beyond.

Before the holidays, I had the pleasure of joining the North Shuswap PAC at their December meeting. They have a lot of exciting plans for the school year and are exploring new ways in which to support students, teachers and staff at North Shuswap Elementary. If you are a parent/caregiver of a student in that community I would encourage you to join their meetings – lots of great discussion and a few good laughs too!

I also had the opportunity to attend the Carlin Elementary Middle School Winter Concert and it was so terrific to come together in person and watch how proud the students were to perform for the audience. Due to a family vacation planned for mid-December, I wasn’t able to attend any other winter concerts but I’m sure it was the same sense of community and appreciation in Sorrento and North Shuswap as they joined together in person to celebrate and applaud our amazing kids!

Last month I mentioned the Board and District have started the framework for our 5-year strategic plan which

will take most, if not all, of this school year to complete. An essential component of this plan will be feedback from you. A survey is in the works and once it’s ready for distribution, we’ll make sure everyone knows where to find it so we can secure maximum participation in this important process. Next steps and progress on the strategic plan will also be included in these monthly articles.

I also want to include a note that our North Okanagan Shuswap District PAC “DPAC” currently has a survey for parents and caretakers. Specifically, they would like to sponsor some educational workshops/talks for caregivers within SD83 and want to hear about topics you’re interested in. Their survey closes January 15, 2023 and here’s the FB link SD83 DPAC-Facebook.

The next monthly Board meeting is on January 17 and we will host it at A.L. Fortune in Enderby. These are public meetings and are open to anyone to join. You can find the board meeting package at Board Meetings – School District No. 83.

Lastly, my official email with the District is cegraysto@sd83.bc.ca and I encourage anyone who has questions, feedback or other comments on our School District to connect with me. As always, I invite you to visit www.sd83.bc.ca to learn more about all the exciting happenings in our district.

Boat Rescue Base Construction

with the day to day construction needs as project manager. Bruce Weicker, President is managing the financial aspects of the project.

From time to time project updates will be posted in FB. Are you interested in working with volunteers in constructing the ready room? Contact Bruce Weicker at 250 833 8971 or email at slspresident2020@gmail.com.

Does Your Child Start Kindergarten in September 2023?

Registration Opens Tuesday, Jan. 17 From 9 a.m. - 3 p.m.

Register at your child's catchment school (based on your physical address) or district program Bastion for Early French Immersion or South Canoe for Outdoor Learning.

All kindy registrations completed on Jan. 17 will be treated as equal so there is no need for overnight line-ups.

Registrations received after January 17th, will be date/time stamped and treated on a first come, first served basis.

To register online please contact your child's catchment school for a registration link.

To register please have your child's birth certificate, proof of residence and any legal documents around child custody.

For more information please contact your school, or check our website: www.sd83.bc.ca or email Director of Instruction, Jen Findlay: jfindlay@sd83.bc.ca

A parent meeting for those interested in Early French Immersion is being planned. Please contact Bastion at 250 832-3741 for further details.

If you are interested in the Outdoor Learning Program information is available at the school. Please contact South Canoe at 250 832-3122.

North Okanagan - Shuswap School District No. 83

Submitted by Cathy Wolf

Eagle Bay Community Association

Looking Forward - 2023 at Eagle Bay

Happy New Year - Finally we are underway with project completion set for 2023. There will be new opportunities and activities for residents and visitors to Eagle Bay starting in the spring.

It has been 6 years since the Park was first contemplated and, while it has been a long time coming, we need to turn our thoughts to playing a game of pickle ball, working out at the outdoor fitness centre, having an outdoor barbecue and picnic at the Park with friends and family, and having children and grandchildren playing in the playgrounds. Imagine having our “Pub Night” outdoors - perhaps some local theatre, and of course, lots of music and community gatherings. While the Park will be under CSRD management, we should consider a variety of options and stepping up to lead the way. Let us know if you are interested in coordinating outdoor activities this summer and/or fall and what we should think about as a Community Association to support your interests.

Renovations in the kitchen and washrooms in the hall have begun. Doors are off, walls are being relocated, washrooms are being updated and moved, new windows will soon

appear along with an outdoor serving platform. We are working with Copper Island Fine Homes to finalize details that will see new accessible washrooms, an upgraded kitchen area and a new serving window that will extend out to the Park. Good food goes along with good fun and we want to make available a kitchen that will inspire the great and not-so-great chefs of Eagle Bay. Here is your chance to bring those home delicacies to the community. That’s exciting.

And while we have been busy with the changes at the hall, Christmas time also gave us the opportunity to think about giving back to the community that has been so supportive, particularly this year, with our work on hall improvements.

In keeping with our commitments as a registered charity, at our December meeting the Board of Directors agreed to provide donations to the Sorento Food Bank, The Eagle Bay Community Church and the Shuswap Community Foundation. The Board discussed the significant contributions these three organizations make to the well-being of Eagle Bay residents and the support they offer to our Community Association in turn. Working together and with purpose, we see the benefits of connecting with our neighbours and friends in Eagle Bay and developing a longterm financial strategy through the Foundation that will serve the residents of Eagle Bay now and into the future.

So with a very exciting and engaging 2023 ahead of us, the Board of Directors extends a heartfelt wish for a Happy New Year.

Tina Hysop (left), Sorrento Food Bank receives a check from Cathy Wolf on behalf of EBCA (photo contributed)

South Shuswap First Responders Season Influenza Management

By Sandra Reutlinger

Meh. Cough. Cough. Sniffle. Ug. Headache. Body ache. Sore throat. So tired.

Sounds like the flu. Seasonal influenza is running rampant this time of year and you’re probably sick of hearing about it too. Let’s talk about management. You’ve probably heard more about your immune system in recent times than in your whole long life before all this started. The thing is, your immune system is super important and your greatest defence against the dreaded flu bug. Keep your immune system strong and give it the tools needed to fight hard. Healthy living strategies are key as is reducing environmental stressors so make sure that what you are putting into your body is going to be a benefit. This means, that as much as you enjoy that special sauce on the Big Mac, it’s not going to cut it the way kale will.

So some things to help: sleep, staying hydrated, exercise, eating whole, nutritious and unprocessed foods, sunshine, reducing stress, getting enough of the vitamins and minerals we need especially in the winter months. There is a mountain of information out there on the internet and we have some amazing health practitioners right here in the Shuswap.

Most people can manage their illness at home with fluids, rest, and over the counter remedies. What to do if you can’t manage your flu like symptoms, though especially if you are in a high risk category of people like those over 65, pregnant women, and people who are battling a chronic con-

dition or are immunocompromised? Never hesitate to call the ambulance if you are having: difficulty breathing or shortness of breath; pain or pressure in the chest or abdomen; frequent dizzy spells; confusion or severe or persistent vomiting and dehydration.

It is always the right call to make if you are concerned that what you are experiencing is a medical emergency.

The South Shuswap First Responders are trained volunteers who attend 911 medical calls to give aid before BC Ambulance arrives to transport. We have a team of dedicated volunteers and are in the process of training more members who have joined the team. We love our community and want everyone to stay safe and healthy.

For more information, call 250-833-5060 or email ssfr@ shaw.ca

Sorrento and Area Health Centre

By Celia Dyer

The happiest of New Year’s greetings to everyone!

I’m not sure why, but this New Year seems to be laced with a healthy dose of hope and positivity. Ordinarily I’m a humbug at New Year’s; I usually find it a lame attempt to recreate the irrepressible magic of Christmas. Apologies to all those who take delight in the celebrations! This year, I say: “hip hip hooray” for your high spirits and I may even indulge in a little enthusiasm myself.

Christmas 2022 was magical, after two difficult and quiet years. Every event leading up to the holiday, whether it was a craft fair, a music concert or a gathering with friends and family, seemed to be, above all, a happy celebration of being together again.

In particular, the joy of music lingers for me, which is perhaps the explanation for my uncharacteristic New Year cheer.

Like 3.5 million Canadians, I belong to a choir. More Canucks sing than play hockey! True fact. Over the past two years, choirs have valiantly kept choral music alive with online concerts but there really is no substitute for the real thing. And this Christmas, we were back in all our tuneful glory.

Music heals. Science says so:

• A 2017 study done at the Royal College of Music in London determined that singing decreases cortisol levels thus lowering stress and helping us to feel more relaxed.

• Singing can also stimulate our immune response. A study from Germany in 2004 showed that singing in a choir in-

creases immunoglobulin A, an antibody that fights infection.

• Singing is beneficial for certain lung and breathing conditions because it involves deep breathing and the controlled use of muscles in the respiratory system.

• Singing in a group enhances our sense of belonging and connectedness. Studies have demonstrated this, but I don’t need Science to tell me that! It is proven to me every week: No matter the mood I’m in before choir practice, I’m always in a better one afterwards. The world is a happier place after choir.

• Singing enhances memory for people with dementia. A 2016 study by several academics from the UK showed that dementia patients could often remember long-ago song lyrics which in turn brought back life memories that had seemingly been lost.

This last benefit of singing is the most heartwarming and truly amazing. If you want to see a real-life demonstration, have a look at the video at the following link: www.youtube.com/watch?v=fyZQf0p73QM

“Henry’s Story”, is an excerpt from the 2014 film “Alive Inside”. This documentary highlights the work of Memory and Music, an organization that provides dementia patients with personalized playlists of music on iPods that has been important in their lives. The transformations are miraculous.

Snuggle up to this film with a cup of the Virgin Irish Cream recipe from last month’s column and your New Year will be off to the best “feel-good” start ever. And who knows, you may be inspired to become Canadian chorister number 3,500,001!

Our Health Centre is off to an equally positive start to the New Year. Between NP’s Jennifer Balfour, Mary Ann Barber and Amy Sousa and Dr. Ruth Brighouse, we are blessed with talented and caring practitioners at the clinic. Many thanks to Interior Health for working hard to keep us covered in difficult times. And thanks beyond measure to Dr. Ruth Brighouse for stepping forward and agreeing to help us out. To all our practitioners, your service to our community is outstanding and wholeheartedly appreciated.

Ensuring quality Primary Care to our local residents is a collaborative, community effort. If you would like to be a part of the team that works diligently to make sure our community has access to medical care, we would love to have you! Please call me, Celia, at 250 675 2346 and I will gladly answer any questions.

Wishing you health, happiness and a song in your heart, for 2023 and always.

Citizens Supporting our Communities

By Mel Arnold, MP North Okanagan-Shuswap

As we begin 2023, I wish to send best wishes for a happy, healthy, and prosperous year to everyone across the North Okanagan-Shuswap!

When we rang in 2020, none of us expected the pandemic, economic and atmospheric storms, social divisions and other challenges we have contended with these past few years. However, throughout the unexpected developments, there have been reassuring and commendable examples of community and public service that have sustained and supported our communities.

Law enforcement, firefighters, and emergency medical and health service personnel have consistently served our communities while other essential workers have also extended themselves to ensure we were able to access the goods and services we need for our daily lives. Students have continued to benefit from education and social connections supporting their growth as teachers, school administrators and support staff have quickly and repeatedly adapted. Our Legions and other community organizations and services also persisted thanks to the tireless volunteers who kept them running. All these citizens, and many others, have sacrificed and demonstrated exemplary service under difficult circumstances, and they deserve our thanks.

When Canadians face increasingly severe difficulties, the peoples’ House of Commons must focus on delivering results for the benefit of citizens. Responsiveness and accountability go hand in hand, and the federal government’s responses to COVID-19, mounting inflation, and troubling developments in foreign relations have precipitated polarized views of those responses.

Throughout Parliamentary debates and political dust-ups in Ottawa, I consistently reflect on what I hear from constituents who count on me as their representative in Parliament. This is not always easy considering natural diversities of opinions across our region- opinions that can be contradictory. Within this reality, I do my best to find the common ground and balance that supports positive outcomes.

In the weeks when I am not required to be in Ottawa, I connect with constituents across our region and hear their perspectives, concerns, and priorities. My work in Parliament is also informed by connecting with Indigenous and local governments and elected provincial representatives across the constituency to identify priorities and opportunities for cooperation. Yes, my work is of a formal political nature, but I also consider it to be the work of one citizen of the region elected to work and advocate on behalf of his neighbours- the citizens of North Okanagan-Shuswap.

Our communities are sustained by the people who give of themselves every day, through thick and thin, good years and the tough ones, to support their friends and neighbours. In the same way that we benefit from the strengths of our communities, we all have something to contribute to our community. It is unclear what 2023 holds for our region and nation, but for better or worse, we have each other and if we continue to find ways to cooperate and support each other, we can strengthen and sustain our communities in the face of what challenges may come.

A Happy New Year to all!

MEL ARNOLD MEMBER OF PARLIAMENT

Many thanks from Sorrento Food Bank

To the Citizens, Businesses, Churches, Schools, Fire Halls, Groceries, Clubs, Organizations, Drivers, Volunteers…those who donated food, money, gifts, time, bottles/cans…….

To ALL who assisted in providing Christmas Hampers within our community this year.

YOU ARE ALL SO APPRECIATED - THANK YOU!

Copper Island Health and Wellness

By Sandra Reutlinger

It’s 2023 and we are working towards a community that is healthy for both you and for me. I could rhyme the whole article, but I feel like someone out there is already rolling their eyes.

Copper Island Health and Wellness Centre (CIHWC) is looking ahead to a fantastic year and very grateful for the support of our community throughout the past years.

We are a voice for our communities in the Shuswap and the Province. The lack of adequate health care is being addressed on every government level and we are advocating to bring primary care, health and wellness services here to our area of the South Shuswap.

We extend a warm welcome to Carla Lyons who is our Program Coordinator Administrative Assistant. Throughout the year ahead, we are looking to offer more programming and activities and Carla is going to help bring them to you. Nutrition, healthy aging, mental health and many more information/educational sessions will be offered.

Our Free Indoor Walking Program continues at Shuswap Lake Estates on Monday and Thursday afternoons, 1:30-2:15. Joyce is a certified instructor who will be onsite to assess and instruct.

Some people have no idea that there are mobile lab services right in Blind Bay, meaning no need to drive to Chase or Salmon Arm. Perhaps you can help

spread the word: Tuesdays and Thursdays from 8:00am -12:00pm right at the CIHWC, you can have lab work done including blood tests, sample drop off and ECG’s.

Some Thursdays, the Community Paramedic is on site to take and talk about blood pressure and many other chronic health conditions. Call the office at: 250-675-3661 to book an appointment.

We offer computer training for Seniors along with resources and information on support services for Seniors. It’s also almost tax time and we are offering free income tax preparation for individuals with a modest income and simple tax situation.

Speaking of taxes, we are now a registered charity though South Shuswap Health Services Society and thus able to issue tax receipts for personal donations to support our efforts to Bring Health Care Closer to Home and Build Healthy Communities. Unfortunately membership fees are not receipt-able and yet, so worthwhile as they go a long way to support the operations at the Centre.

Your thoughts and suggestions are welcome so please send them to us along with any inquiries or to obtain a membership form: sshealthss@gmail.com

Please feel free to stop by the CIHWCentre on a Tuesday or Thursday morning to check it out and say hi to one of our amazing volunteers.

Unplug and Play Family Literacy Week 2023

By Jo Anne Malpass

Literacy Alliance of the Shuswap Society (LASS) has announced the return of in-person events for Unplug and Play Family Literacy Week, January 21 – 29, 2023.

The goal is to encourage families to unplug from technology and enjoy the freedom of play. In 2019 it had over 2500 people attend Unplug and Play events and LASS gave away more than 700 books. LASS is hoping 2023 will see a return of familiar events and the addition of some new ones, as well as increased family participation.

Sierre Allison, LASS Assistant Literacy Outreach Coordinator, said North and South Shuswap Community Resources (www.nsscr.ca) will be hosting an Unplug and Play Cooking Challenge for the third year. “There is always a lot of enthusiasm and creativity around this event (which does require pre-registration). The South Shuswap library is hosting a Reptile Show with the Bug Guys on Saturday January 28 from 1-2 pm and there is also a Friends of the Library Book Sale on Friday January 27 and Saturday January 28.”

Play Shuswap (playshuswap.com) is hosting a region wide scavenger hunt that families can do on their own and then submit photos to be entered for a grand prize.

“Anecdotally,” said Allison, “we are hearing that families are struggling to reign in screen time after the increased use during the pandemic. We are looking forward to offering over 50 Unplug and Play activities in communities throughout the North Okanagan - Shuswap, that will hopefully support families in reducing screen-time for the week of January 21 - 29. The schedule of events will be distributed through elementary schools again this year.”

The positive response to the call for event hosts exceeded expectations and LASS is delighted to see many new activities as well as the return of annual favourite such as magic shows, free family skates and story times.

LASS would like to thank all the businesses and organizations who are supporting Unplug and Play Family Literacy Week. Check shuswapliteracy.ca to see the full schedule of events and start planning a week of unplugged fun.

In 2023

I think senility is going to be a fairly smooth transition for me.

New Items in CSRD Recycling Programs

CSRD Release

Residents across the Columbia Shuswap Regional District (CSRD) can now recycle even more items at their local recycling depots or in their home recycling programs.

Effective January 1, 2023, Recycle BC is adding single-use products and packaging-like products to its residential recycling program. The CSRD recycling program partners with Recycle BC to provide recycling services through local depots.

The expansion of service is the result of an amendment to the BC Recycling Regulation. Previously, only plastic, metal and glass packaging, and paper products were included in the Recycle BC program. This change adds items that are used as packaging or a single use to the list of accepted materials.

These new items must be placed in the correct bin at the CSRD depot to be properly recycled. A list of the newly accepted items indicated which category the item belongs in.

Recyclable with paper products: Paper party décor (paper decorations, signs, hats, tablecloths, pinatas); Paper gift bags and boxes; Cardboard moving, filing boxes

Recyclable with containers: Plastic plates, bowls and cups; Paper plates, bowls and cups (with thin plastic lining); Plastic food storage containers; Plastic cutlery and straws; Plastic hangers (that come with clothing); Aluminum foil wrap; Aluminum foil baking dishes and pie plates; Metal storage tins (thin gauge)

Recyclable with flexible plastics (at depots only): Plastic sandwich and freezer bags; Plastic shrink wrap; Flexible plastic drop sheets and covering; Flexible plastic bubble wrap (no bubble wrap-lined paper); Flexible plastic recycling bags (blue, clear bags, or yellow or blue bags used for curbside collection); Flexible plastic carryout shopping bags (reusable)

This expanded material list will allow more material to be recycled and keep it out of landfills and the environment. Residents play a key role in recycling this material as the first step in the process –allowing materials to be collected – by putting it in their bins or taking it to a depot. View the full list of newly accepted materials at RecycleBC.ca

Adult Technology Learning Available Online

By Barbra Fairclough

Prior to COVID, patrons at the Downtown Kelowna branch of the Okanagan library would meet at the branch for live sessions to learn about how to navigate their tablet or smart phone. During COVID, the in person sessions stopped and the library made these sessions available online. Now the program can be accessed by folks that may not be able to travel to the branch.

The next online sessions begin on February 7 for android users and February 9 for iPhone. There are three one hour sessions for each series and patrons are asked to attend all three sessions as one builds on what is learned in the previous session.

The first session is basic orientation and you learn how to turn on and use your tablet or phone. The second session patrons learn about settings and how to change the settings to suit individual needs

and use, and the third session is designed to help patrons learn about apps and how to download.

Sessions are convened using microsoft teams and usually there are no more than ten people. Staff at the library confirm that usually these sessions are offered spring and fall, occasionally in the summer.

Registration opens for Android phones on January 24 at 8am for February 7, 2pm session online meet up. For iPhones and iPads, January 26 at 8am for February 9 session. The series of three sessions all run during the month of February. Addition information will be sent to you after you register. This is a workshop for adults. Go to the Okanagan Regional Library calendar at https:// orl.evanced.info/signup/ and click on the session you are interested in or call 250 860 4033.

Our Focus in 2023

By Greg Kyllo, MLA Shuswap

The new year should be a time of optimism and excitement, yet I know many people are feeling uneasy as we delve into 2023. Amid an uncertain economic outlook and the aftermath of the pandemic, my BC Liberal colleagues and I are working hard to raise our constituents’ most pressing concerns to government. Housing availability, the health care crisis and rising unaffordability are still at front of my mind and my focus for this year.

I will continue to hold the government to account for its job to provide relief for our constituents. I am actively advocating for winter shelters after the Salvation Army Lighthouse in Shuswap was closed last May. I will continue to voice my concerns with the new Housing Minister to ensure unhoused people in Salmon Arm have somewhere warm and safe to sleep.

Furthermore, the health care crisis is an issue our entire BC Liberal caucus is extremely passionate about working to improve. Our health care system is nearing a point of total collapse and what we need are real actions and improved outcomes.

Along with the deteriorating state of health care, the cost of living continues to skyrocket across British Columbia.

Despite the Province showing off a major surplus to provide relief, people continue to pay the excruciating price for rent, groceries and gas.

The government has delayed acting on many serious challenges and people are tired of waiting for the results they were promised. As your MLA, I will work every day to change that and to provide relief and peace of mind for our community.

By Michael Shapcott, Executive Director

Sorrento Centre

The season of giving

Snow is blanketing the main campus of the Sorrento Centre, like the rest of the Shuswap. Late December rain has added a thick layer of ice. As we were preparing to welcome the new year, a pair of Trumpeter swans visited our waterfront – offering a graceful entry into 2023.

While every new year is an opportunity for reflection back and looking ahead, the year 2023 is very special for the Sorrento Centre as we mark our 60th anniversary. Six decades of welcoming guests from near and far, six decades of nourishing body and mind and soul, six decades of music and yoga and wood carvers and quilters and spiritual retreats. Hundreds of young people have worked their first summer jobs at the Centre.

Joy is the theme of our 60th anniversary – and there will be joy in abundance throughout the year. Joy as we welcome old friends, some of whom have been coming home to the Sorrento Centre for decades and share lots of stories. Joy as we meet new friends, who will visit for the first time in 2023 and start to make their own memories.

Looking back, the time since the onset of the COVID-19

pandemic in March of 2020 has been challenging for our Centre (like everyone else in our region and around the world). We’ve always been a not-for-profit retreat and conference centre, welcoming thousands of guests annually. But our core work – to serve as a gathering place for all – was abruptly suspended when we could no longer welcome people to our beautiful 24acre main campus. We did establish a virtual community hub, and offer a variety of programs on-line, as well as hosting community events and coalitions.

When the important and necessary public health restrictions forced us to close our doors early in 2020, we pivoted to focus on being a good neighbour here in the Shuswap. We couldn’t open our doors to guests, but we could help in practical ways. As food charities were closed to prevent the spread of the pandemic, our commercial kitchen stepped up. Our tiny but mighty kitchen crew have been working seven days a week, 365 days a year, providing tasty and nutritious meals for a variety of community agencies in our region.

Swans at waterfront near Sorrento (Photo credit: Michael Shapcott)

Each morning, every day of the week, our van delivers meals – almost 30,000 each year for the past three years. Weekends, holidays, weekdays – the meal deliveries continue. We ramp up for special times of the year – on Christmas Eve, our van delivered freshly cooked turkey for 600 people. This is a wonderful collaboration with Rotary Clubs in Salmon Arm, plus two churches.

A good meal is important, and so too are other forms of care. In 2022, the Sorrento Centre became a hub in the South Shuswap for the BC Community Response Network, which focuses on vulnerable and neglected seniors. We work with a variety of community groups on practical initiatives.

As public health restrictions eased in April of 2022, we ramped up our events and activities. We hosted almost 3,000 overnight guests, and thousands more day visitors. There were many highlights – from the annual banjo festival to a powerful event on Indigenous language, culture, law and spirituality. Just before Christmas, we hosted hundreds of students, staff, parents and families for the first Sorrento Elementary holiday concert since the start of the pandemic.

Looking ahead, our Centre has planned a wide variety of events in 2023 from reunions of old friends to new activities. Dozens of events are already listed on our website, and more will be added in the coming days.

We are grateful that our founders created a home for all in the Shuswap 60 years ago. We are grateful for the visionaries who built up the Sorrento Centre with our reputation for lively and engaging programming. We are grateful to be able to serve our neighbours in many practical ways.

The joy which is our theme for 2023 comes bursting forth from all that gratitude, from that wonderful history, and from the prospect of more wonderful days ahead.

In the depths of winter, we are focusing on serving our neighbours. As the weather warms, we will become to welcome more and bigger events.

Please know that you are welcome to share the joy with all of us at the Sorrento Centre as we celebrate our 60th anniversary throughout the year.

Lots of information here: www.sorrentocentre.ca

launchltd@telus.net www.launchconstruction.com

Four-Legged Warmth for Winter Days

By Barbra Fairclough

According to the Canadian Animal Health Institutes 2020 pet population survey, 58% of Canadian homes report they own at least one dog or cat. That’s quite a few fury friends to keep us company.

Some breeds are well suited to the wintery days but some need a bit of human care to stay warm and avoid frost bite.

Puppies and older dogs can find it a bit challenging to stay warm. Any condition that hinders blood flow to the extremities puts them at greater risk of frost bite.

Hypothermia can show in dogs with signs of shivering and lethargy. It can also show itself in stumbling and lack of coordination. Gums can become grey in color.

The BC SPCA suggests keeping all animals indoors during cold weather. And if you have domestic or farm animals outside, ensure they have warm protected shelter that is off the ground and properly insulated.

If it’s cold for you, it’s likely cold for your pet. According to the American Kennel Club when temperatures reach about 4 degrees Celsius it is a good time to put on a coat.

Dogs short to the ground, where bellies sit low enough to brush up against the snow, or with a shorn coat, are well suited to wear a winter coat.

Leaner breeds with short hair like greyhounds or whippets will be happier with a coat. Northern breeds such as malamutes or huskies or large dogs with thick coats have a natural protection to the cold.

Many of the toy or miniature short hair breeds do not generate and retain heat well and a coat is a best option.

Be mindful of more sensitive senior dogs as they can have a harder time with heat regulation and other maladies like arthritis and wearing a coat can make going outdoors much more agreeable. Choosing a bright color can make your dog easier to see.

A coat fitting snugly without restricting movement covering the base of the neck to the base of the tail can work well.

Keep paws protected. Snow ice and salt can be hard on sensitive paw pads and cause drying of skin on pads. If you have concerns about salt, a quick dip in water prior to drying off can help. This also prevents ingesting the salts when your pet licks their feet. Protecting pads with a balm or petroleum jelly prior to walks can add a protective layer too. Check paws from time to time to ensure they are healthy and not cracked and dry. Just like for humans, moisturizing helps.

Retrievers or other breeds that have long hair in the toes are subject to uncomfortable snowballs forming between toes. Boots can prevent this and keep your dog protected from frozen surfaces and salts.

The biggest challenge in finding the right dog boot is to find one your dog will actually wear. Soles should be textured for traction and flexible to allow for walking naturally. Adjustable Velcro straps are good also. A good romp in deep snow can tug at them. Velcro makes adjusting easy. It will feel odd to your dog to have boots on so try them on your dog inside for short periods. This will give you a chance to see how your dog adjusts.

When you have your pet outfitted and you are comfortable heading out, remember to keep your pet on a leash when walking near natural bodies of water. Your pet won’t know how thick the ice is and risks falling though.

A little bit of preparation will make winter fun with your four legged friend more enjoyable.

Ernie Smith likes winter walks (Photo credit Arlene Smith)

D V A N T A G E G U T T E R S

Sorrento Memorial Hall

Submitted by Karen Brown HAPPY NEW YEAR!

The Board for the Sorrento Memorial Hall would like to wish everyone a happy and healthy 2023! We were pleased to host a number of well-attended events over the holiday season. We hope that you were able to spend time with your family and friends. Take a look at what we’ve got planned for the new year!

EXTENSIVE RENOVATION & EXPANSION CONSIDERED FOR THE HALL ITSELF

The Sorrento Memorial Hall Board is currently working with architect Marc Lamerton to plan and design a community hall that will better serve multi-generational families and will offer indoor recreational options in the community.

To gain a sense of what is needed in this community, the hall has launched a survey and has received dozens of replies already, especially from younger families, as to what they’d like to see in the community. Before any definitive plans are made, this is the essential piece – defining our community need.

To access an online copy of the Community Needs Survey for the Renovation of the Sorrento Hall, please visit: southshuswapchamber.com/directory/sorrento-memorial-hall

HALL WILL EXPAND ITS INVENTORY OF AMENITIES & SUPPLIES

The Sorrento Memorial Hall, with much thanks to the Shuswap Community Foundation, has been able to purchase and install a number of amenities to better serve those wishing to rent the hall for events, large & small. Just recently, due to a $10,000 grant received from the Foundation, Board members were able to purchase a large glass beverage area cooler unit, a washer and dryer, 16 large round tables, table dollies, linens & toppers, a pour-over coffee station with accessories and a water cooler.

In this next phase, the Sorrento Memorial Hall will acquire the following to serve up to 200 in the venue: dinnerware, a large variety of glassware including water, wine, beer and champagne flutes, serving dishes, pitchers and cutlery. It has been years since these amenities were upgraded. The Hall has worked hard to raise monies through the annual Christmas Market and will look to community grantors and sponsors for further support to ensure it is well equipped.

With a full kitchen facility, bar area and plenty of parking, the Hall is the perfect spot to host your event! For rental information, please contact Sandra: 250.675.2222.

DRIVE SAFE IN WINTER Weather

Cedar Heights Community Association

“Where neighbours become friends”

By Shaunne Letourneau

December was a busy month of Christmas activity at the Cedar Heights Centre. Kids Only Shopping was held December 3 and 145 children from the area were helped by Santa’s elves to find presents for family members, friends and even pets. Santa’s elves also wrapped all the presents so they were ready to put under the tree with strict instructions to parents of “no peeking”. It wasn’t clear who was having more fun –the children or the elves!

The event wouldn’t be possible without the efforts of over 100 volunteers who donated 600 hours of time. Success is also due to the generosity of all of those who donated items for the kids to choose from. The over $1900 raised from this event has been donated to a local family to assist with extraordinary medical expenses for one of their children.

The annual Christmas dinner and dance was sold out with 96 people attending. In addition to a delicious catered dinner, those attending played a blackout game of “Christmas Carol Bingo”. There were also draws for door prizes and for the four Christmas Raffle baskets. The 50/50 draw prize was over $175. Our ever-popular DJ, Brian Waddington, had everyone out on the dance floor to rock the night away.

The next event held in December was the very popular annual Christmas Bake Sale. This is a fund raiser for the Association and Association

members (women and men!) donated a variety of their favorite Christmas baking to the cause. This important fund raiser supports various programs and the overall operation of the Centre.

The Centre was filled with Christmas music at the last

event before Christmas - the Christmas Shed Party. The evening was led by Betty Davies, the new ukulele band leader. While the ukulele was the predominant instrument, there were guitars, an accordion, and harmonica also providing instrumental accompaniment. As always, Peter Blacklock added the piano to the instrumental mix. Of course, the 65 people attending brought their singing voices. It was truly a memorable musical evening, including solos by Linda Balser, Carol Johnson and Dorothy Lind.

Come January the Centre resumes normal programs –Keep Fit classes, Yoga, Canasta and Carpet Bowling. While the Keep Fit classes are full, there is still room for participants in the Yoga classes. Yoga is held once per week on Wednesday mornings. Check out the website for dates and times for all programs.

There are two events in the planning stages to help us through the darker months of January and February. Stay tuned for information on the Chinese New Year’s Dinner and Valentine’s Dinner. Details of the events will be posted on the Cedar Heights website when they are available. (www. cedarheightscommunity.ca)

Cedar Heights - Bake Sale (photo contributed)

Santa’s Elves for Kids

Shopping included Susan and Russ McLeod. Susan coordinated the event assisted by Russ. (photo contributed)

Carlin Hall Community Association

By Jane Stephenson

Happy New Year and welcome to 2023!

The Carlin Hall Community Association Board of Directors hopes you made wonderful Christmas memories a few weeks ago, and that this New Year brings you good health and much happiness.

The Board congratulates the FACES program for its delightful winter concert held in December. The instructors are to be commended for sharing their passion of music, art, and dance with all of the students involved in the programs.

As always, though, it is the children who captured the hearts of the audience members. Playing to a full house was an exciting time as most of the kids had not been on stage before. Many proud parents and family members, along with their teachers, enjoyed the show.

With the New Year underway, activities at the Hall are up and running as per usual. The Tuesday evening acoustic workshop/jam and the Wednesday afternoon intermediate jams begin on Tuesday January 10 and Wednesday January 11 respectively.

Tuesday evenings offer 8 sessions from 6-8 pm for $50 (call Larry 250 675 5426). Wednesday’s jam is from 1-3 pm and is $40 or $5 per drop in (call Diane 250 517 0861).

January 15-February 19 is the time for Carlin Makerspace. Gather with others to start and/or finish projects you’ve been thinking about. Call Diane 250 517 0861 for details.

February’s edition of the Carlin Hall Coffeehouse (February 4 at 7pm) will feature The Mobley Road Gang (Joanie Robertson, Robbie Milne, James Clark, and Libby Jay Chisholm). There might even be a John Prine song or two in their set list! Local musicians interested in all things coffeehouse related are asked to contact Diane for info. 250 517 0861

It appears as though there is some winter ahead of us but the days are getting longer! Take your time as you travel near or far. Icy conditions still exist.

The Board wishes you a happy, healthy January and all the best in this New Year. Until next time, take good care.

Wills & Estates Conveyancing

Sorrento Lions Club

By Judi Kembel

We would like to wish everyone a very Happy New Year and the best for 2023.

Here is a run down of what we have accomplished in 2022 from July to December.

We presented $8,000 in bursaries to students who graduated from Salmon Arm Secondary and who have enrolled in post-secondary institutions in BC.

We held our first craft sale on November 5 and hope to make it an annual event and on November 26, held our annual Seniors’ Christmas Party and Silent Auction

We Donated $1,000 to South Shuswap Health Society, $1,000 to Shuswap Hospital Foundation, $800 to BC Diabetes Foundation, $5,000 to Camp Winfield Easter Seals Camp for disabled children, $1,000 to Hillcrest Elementary School PAC for their breakfast program, $100 to Salvation Army Turkey Drive in Salmon Arm and $1,970 to purchase hygiene products, and $1,800 to the Sorrento Food Bank to purchase hams and turkeys for the Christmas hampers.

We hope we can continue to serve our community the same way in the coming new year.

We would appreciate any ideas our community may have so that we may continue serving you the best we can. You can send your ideas to sorrentolionsclub@yahoo.ca .

Our weekly meat draws resumed on January 6 and will continue every Friday until June 23.

Preparations are well underway for our 50th Charter Night in May 2023.

We are proud to serve our community in any way we can, and we look forward to continuing our work in the community. New members are always welcome - both women and men over 19 years of age are welcome to join. If you are interested in helping in your community, please consider joining our club as either a member or a “Friend of the Lions” volunteer.

We meet on the 1st and 3rd Thursday of the month (September to June) at 6:45 pm at the Shuswap Lions Manor, 2780 Falaise Road, Sorrento. If you would like more information about becoming a Lion, do not hesitate to contact the Sorrento Lions Club at our email address: sorrentolionsclub@yahoo. ca

. We would love to hear from you! Check out our website at http://e-clubhouse.org/ sites/sorrentobc/

Lion Gary Pfeifer presenting cheque to Jen Gilfillan of the Salvation Army

Lion Gary Pfeifer presenting cheque to Tina Hysop of the Sorrento Food Bank (Photos contributed)

Lion Judi Kembel presenting bursary to Holly McAskill

Salmar Community Association Receives $100,000 Grant

Media Release

A $100,000 Christmas gift for the Salmar Community Association from Telefilm Canada and the Canada Arts and Culture Recovery Program

The Salmar Community Association is truly one of the most unique movie entertainment organizations you’ll find. In fact, the Salmar was one of the very first non-profit groups in North America to operate a first-run multiplex.

The association was formed in 1946 for the purpose of constructing an arena as a memorial to local veterans of World War II. It was decided to build a movie theatre to raise the necessary funds and the brand new Salmar Theatre (now the Salmar Classic) opened for business in May of 1949.

In 1997, the association built the Salmar Grand Cinemas, a four-plex cinema bring the best in first-run Hollywood movies to Salmon Arm.

All along, the Salmar Community Association has put 100% of profits back into theatre improvements and into the community, constructing the Legion building across from the Grand, along with giving out hundreds of thousands of dollars in donations to local non-profit groups to support healthcare, education, sports, and the arts. The Salmar has helped to build playgrounds, fountains, trails, and helped build better futures for young people through annual scholarships to high school and college students.

The theatre industry has been hit hard since March 2020 as a result of COVID-19. The Salmar had to drastically restrict operations, including a complete shut-down for 6 months; with reopening a long, hard road while dealing with health authority regulations and patiently waiting for new content from major motion picture companies.

“The financial impact from the pandemic has been significant to the Salmar. Ticket sales are down, while maintenance costs of our facilities and staffing expenses have increased” stated Chris Papworth, Salmar Board Chair.

Salmar Theatre manager, Jody Jones came across a grant she felt the Salmar qualified for and applied in November 2022. She tearfully announced the confirmation of the $100,000 grant to the Salmar Board at its December 15 board meeting.

The Canada Arts and Culture Recovery Program (CACRP) aim is to help Canadian arts, cultural and heritage organizations who have experienced revenue losses due to venue capacity limitations and audience concerns about returning to performances as a result of COVID-19.

Telefilm has allocated a portion of the recovery and CACRP funds through this program to support exhibitors across the country to recover and resume pre-pandemic level of activities.

“This funding is a ray of light in an unknown time for us. We are beyond thrilled to accept this funding and are looking forward to the future and success of the Salmar” said Jody Jones, Salmar Cinemas General Manager.

People can support the Salmar by purchasing a membership, buying pass books and coming out to watch some of the fantastic movies coming out over the holiday season. Stay tuned for two Canadian films airing at the Salmar in the coming year - an easy part of the grant requirements the Salmar is happy to comply with.

Holistic Nutrition & Wellness - The Body’s White Knight

By Daniella Najda

Your immune system isn’t a group of organs or in a specific place of the body, but rather everywhere, even behind your knees! It doesn’t get much notice or thanks for the invaluable work it does. Maintaining a properly functioning immune system is what allows you to attain and maintain true health.

What is the immune system? It’s the first line of defense to protect your body from infection and disease. In short, it’s like a white knight from within identifying those things that belong in your body and those things that don’t and must be destroyed, like an evil dragon. The stronger the force of your white knight, the stronger you are.

A major part of your immune system is the lymphatic system, functioning as a pathway for the immune cells and for the elimination of toxins and wastes. An even larger part is the gut! 80% of your immune system is in the gut. The beneficial gut bacteria are like little marching soldiers who play a large role in immune function, regulating your immunity throughout life.

When your white knight can’t do its job, neither can the soldiers nor the lymphatic pathway. This is when you may feel fatigued, have repeated infections, inflammation, pain, arthritis, or have diarrhea often.

There is a long list of suppressors of the immune system and even more lists of things you can do to boost your immunity or reverse a weakened white knight.

A couple common suppressors are stress and lack of sleep. Many people are busy all day running around accomplishing daily tasks for family, friends, a job, volunteering, taking care of pets, the house, and the car that you forget to slow down and take a breath. You don’t realize all this constant activity is a strain to your body, but it adds up. When

you’re constantly in high gear, it wears on your loyal white knight who needs a break too and it gets in the way of a restful night’s sleep. You go to bed with thoughts running rampant in your head about all the items you need to accomplish the next day or worse, what you forgot to do that day! The littlest one keeps coming into your bedroom with complaints and in need of your help or the cat feels energized at night and loves to use your head as part of its raceway, as you try in vain to find that elusive dimension called sleep.

A way to boost your immune system in and amongst all this activity is to slow down, practice mindfulness, and take some time for yourself. At least once a day practice breathing for 10mins, get out for a short walk, and once a week do something for yourself. You can enjoy alternative therapies like massage, Craniosacral Therapy, Reflexology, sound healing, Reiki, Tai Chi, Yoga, and meditation.

Another powerful means of awakening your white knight is to enjoy a balanced diet with fresh organic fruits and vegetables, fermented foods, complete proteins from meat and non-meat sources like beans, and other whole foods. A great meal is grandma’s hearty chicken noodle soup recipe with homemade broth from free-range chicken bones, lots of garlic and onions, and whatever veggies you want to throw in with noodles, all organic of course. Her soups achieved legendary status in combatting winter illnesses for a reason!

This article is not medical advice. Please consult with your doctor before undertaking any changes in your healthcare.

Daniella Najda is a Registered Holistic Nutritionist, Certified Reflexology and Craniosacral Therapist. If you have any questions, feel free to email awakeningnutrition@ proton.me

(Credit: @ThankYouFantasyPictures)

SASCU Donates $50,000 to Food Banks and Shelters

SASCU Release

SASCU traditionally supports local food banks and shelters each year at Christmas. Driven by the greater community need, due to cost of groceries, housing shortages, and rising cost of living, SASCU boosted its donations to $50,000 to help community organizations through the holiday season and into 2023.

SASCU distributed $50,000 to volunteer groups throughout the Shuswap: Salmon Arm Salvation Army Food Bank, Second Harvest Food Bank, Eagle Valley Food Bank, Sorrento Food Bank, North Shuswap Food Bank, Feed Enderby & District Food Bank, and the Shuswap Area Family Emergency (SAFE) Society.

“The dedication and hard work of these organizations are part of what makes the Shuswap community so strong,” said Dave King, Chair of SASCU Board of Directors. “Thank you to all the volunteers that give their time to these efforts.”

Through the Community Support Program, SASCU funds non-profit projects and vital community programs. A sample of supported organizations and projects in 2022 include the Annual Downtown Salmon Arm Farmers Market, The Shuswap North Okanagan Rail Trail, Shuswap Association of Community Living, Eagle Bay Hall renovation, South Shuswap Transportation Society, and the Notch Hill Town Hall accessibility improvements.

SASCU is partnered with Do Some Good, an online platform to help maximize awareness and the impact of programs and volunteers in the Shuswap. Accounts are free for non-profits: https://dosomegood.ca/login

Dave King, SASCU Board Chair and Tina Hysop, Sorrento Food Bank

By Ted Hillary

Our annual Salmon Arm Christmas Bird Count was held on Sunday December 18. It was a bone-chilling cold day with temperatures ranging from -12 to -16 degrees. And it was windy, with gusts in some places at times almost up to gale force. All participants were very glad of their winter woolies! It was overcast with ice fog over the areas of the lake which were not frozen over.

The 32 participants were in 13 parties mostly in groups of 2 to 4. There were 463 kilometers covered in vehicles for a total of 42.25 hours. In addition, participants on foot covered 15.3 kilometers in 12 hours and 5 minutes.

A total of 62 species were seen, two fewer than last year; an additional 3 were seen during count week. This is our lowest count ever, considerably below our average of about 75. The total number of birds seen was 5449, also one of our lowest counts ever. The early cold weather, with much of the lake frozen over, would be a contributing factor.

There were some very notable sightings. For the first time on all our counts a snow goose was seen, flying with mallards west of the wharf. This bird was present for a couple of days feeding with mallards in front of the Prestige Inn. A hermit thrush was seen flying in South Canoe. This close relative of a robin has only been counted on 3 previous counts, the last time in 2003. A long-eared owl was spotted near the mouth of the Salmon River on December 17, the first time one has been seen in the count period since 2008.

The most common species was the mallard with 1189 birds scattered over our entire area. Trailing in second place were dark-eyed juncos with 818 birds. The 534 Bohemian waxwings, the 497 rock pigeons, and the 390 European starlings were not nearly as numerous as usual. Only 5 Canada geese were seen when usually there are many hundreds.

The varied thrush did put on a show for count participants. A total of 253 were seen scattered all over our area. The previous high count was in 2005 when 44 birds were seen. I do not know why it should be such a great year for thrushes. Perhaps the early cold weather brought them here from the north. There are lots of ash berries and other berries for them to eat which may explain why there are staying here.

Also a record 127 California quail were seen. The previous high was in 2017 when 114 birds were seen. The quail are a dry land bird which have been increasing in numbers here as it is becoming drier, and the winters are generally warmer with less snow. The quail have been taking over the habitat of the ring-necked pheasants which have slowly been decreasing in numbers; only 19 were seen in this year’s count.

Some of our sparrows showed up in record numbers. The 818 juncos broke the previous record of 387 set in 2016. There were 29 spotted towhees which shattered our previous record of 8 set in 2020. The number of song sparrows was 119, a bit higher than our previous record of 97 seen in 2021. Perhaps the numbers of feeders and the availability of food in urban areas can account for these numbers.

I would like to give a big thanks to everyone who participated in this count and braved the frigid weather. Without your help the count could not happen.

White Lake New Horizons

By Lester McInally White Lake

New Horizons held its annual Christmas gathering on Wednesday Dec 14. Part of the activities was a Christmas Basket Raffle, which was won by Allison Patrick. The basket was donated by Cindy & Paul Thorpe.

All funds went to the Sorrento Food Bank with the club matching up to $250. Alan Cook & Paul Thorpe presented the Sorrento Food Bank with a donation of $515.

White Lake New Horizons is a social group for +50 that meets at the White Lake Community Hall for PotLuck dinners and social activities on the second and fourth Wednesday of each month.

Alan Cook (left) and Paul Thorpe present $515 donation to Sorrento Food Bank

South Shuswap Library Events

Submitted by Teresa Wiebe

Come on in, the library is warm and cozy! We have a great selection of books, DVD’s, CD’s, and magazines to check out. We ask that you sanitize your hands before you browse.

Our two computer stations are available to use. We also have chairs and tables available for use in branch and free Wifi.

We have a great selection of online resources on our website, homework help, magazines, ebooks, audiobooks, Rosetta Stone and more! Check us out at www.orl.bc.ca

CHILDREN’S PROGRAMMING

• South Shuswap Lego. Come on in and ask to use the Lego. We ask that you wash your hands prior to use. Drop-in.

• Kids Paper Craft with Karen. Come in and make a paper craft with Karen. Tuesday, January 24 3:004:00pm. Registration required. Limit of 8 school aged children. Please call the branch to register 250-675-4818.

• Take and make bags to go. Stop by the branch the first Saturday of the month and pick up your craft bag to

go. Limit of 25 bags. First come first serve. School-aged.

• PJ Storytime with Rebecca. Facilitated by and in partnership with the N.S.S.C.R. Come and have some fun at the library! Songs and rhymes with a light snack. Tuesdays 6:00 –6:45pm. February 7, March 7 and April 11. Drop-in.

• Mother Goose with Rebecca.

• Come and join this lively hour filled with songs, rhymes and fingerplays, facilitated by N.S.S.C.R.! A light snack will be served. Fridays 10:15 – 11:15am. January 13, 20th, 27, February 3, 10. Drop-in.

• Unplug and Play Week. The Bug Guys will be at our branch Saturday, January 28 from 1:00-2:00pm. Come and see what kind of reptiles Stuart will bring for us to see and learn about. Drop-in.

• Friends of the Library Book Sale. Come check out the great selection of books to buy on January 27 10:00-5:00pm and January 28 10:004:00pm. Accepting donations of five years or newer books. Call the branch for details.

ADULT PROGRAMMING

• Card making with Karen.

Learn basic stamping and die cutting/ dry embossing with a machine. Beginners welcomed. Two sessions to choose from Thursday, January 12 and February 9 from 1:00pm to 2:30pm. Registration required call 250-675-4818. Limit of 8 adults.

• Take and make bags to go. Stop by the branch the second Saturday of the month to pick up your craft bags to go. Limit of 25 bags. First come first serve. Adults.

• Page Turners Book Club is held the first Thursday of the month at 10:00 am. Registration required. Call 250675-4818.

• Blind Bay Garden Club meets at 10:00 AM on the second Tuesday of the month.

• Fireside Knitters 1st and 3rd Fridays of every month at 10:00am. Drop-in. Please call the branch if you have any questions – 250.675.4818

What programs would you like to see in your library? Email us at sostaff@ orl.bc.ca with your suggestions.

Travelling SC P

We found the SCOOP! in Italy!

In shops through Rome and random piazzas in villages there was a SCOOP. Viewpoints and overlooks in Civita de Bagnoregio had the SCOOP. The tobacconist in Rome had the SCOOP! So did Monte Fegatsis at the foot of Dantes monument.

The SCOOP is everywhere. Where’s yours?

#findyourscoop

This past year has been our busiest and most challenging to date. Thank you to our wonderful customers for your continued support and understanding as we continue to provide the best service we can. We would like to wish you all a very healthy, happy and a prosperous New Year!

Shuswap Overland Adventures Not Today

By Jason Lutterman

The numbness of a borderline turkey induced coma has been replaced with the fresh energy of a new year. For some reason, this always comes along with a burden of expectancy. The rain-checked adventures previously put on hold for another day blend together with the crumpled list in my pocket. As our trip around the sun begins again, so does staring at old maps of the Shuswap.

Jeeps are fairly small rigs and heaving this adolescent St. Bernard over the rock sliders and into the passenger seat is becoming harder each time. I truly believe it won’t be long before he may not fit. Heading to the trail I can’t help but continue to look his direction as he drools like the dog from the Beethoven movies on my freshly wiped down dash. There is no amount of defrost that overpowers St. Bernard.

the Shuswap were the original roads in and out of this once remote community.

Over the years exploring the endless trail networks I have come across many things. Old camps and mining sites, caves of all shapes, sizes and depths along with classic cars hidden by the overgrowth. Trying to kill two birds with one stone, the first being take this gorilla of a dog and run him through some deep trail. He’s in his element in the deep snow and moves through it in a way I could only wish.

The second is to navigate the trail without any of the landmarks visible in summer and find some of the old cars. The steep valleys of White Lake are spotted with these finds. Cars mostly from the 30’s and 40’s though the odd 50’s cruiser can be found protruding from the earth as if mother nature were attempting to reclaim her property.

recent prints left behind by a large cat easily identified as a cougar by the print being nearly double the size of a bobcats.

While we didn’t achieve our goal of capturing a picture of a snow-covered relic, we did manage to get out of the trail with only two more small battles for traction and while we were looking to see some of nature’s treasures, I suspect nature was watching us as we walked down the trail.

The warmest day of the season after some of the coldest weather leaves the snow conditions as bad as they could be. Untouched trail is being broken and as we move farther into the backcountry my concern of us getting out grows. Much of today’s multiuse trails surrounding

It’s not usually a good sign as the jeep shudders to a stop half turned on the trail. The depth and wetness of the snow has won and we’re stuck. Not badly but enough to realise we won’t be going too much further without a fight. Equipped for almost every possible hurdle we regain our footing and continue in a bit further. I open the door for the aptly named “wrecker” and we tread through knee deep snow to the trailhead. Far more snow than anticipated lays in the thick forest. Spots I knew for sure that had what we came to see were buried in heavy wet snow. We covered far less ground than I expected as the evergreens wept on us relentlessly. The only sightings on the trail today were the

Recycling depots

SORRENTO

1164 Passchendaele Rd

(parking lot of Fire Hall #1)

Wed - Fri, Noon to 4pm

Sat & Sun, 10am - 4pm, Stat Holidays Closed

SALMON ARM

Bill’s Bottle Depot 2840 - 13th Avenue SW

Mon - Sat, 8:30am -4:30pm

Stat Holidays Closed

SALMON ARM

From the valley bottom to the mountain tops, I promise we’ll show you as much of the Shuswap backcountry in 2023 as we can, and I invite you to come along. Visit us on Facebook at Shuswap Overland Adventures or follow us here in the Scoop. Cheers

Transfer

4290 – 20th Ave SE

April 1 to Oct 31 Daily 9am - 5pm

Nov 1 to Mar 31 Daily 9am - 4pm

Christmas, New Years & Remembrance Day Closed

SKIMIKIN

2281 Skimikin Rd

Fri to Tues 10am - 4pm

Stat Holidays Closed

COMMUNITY EVENTS CALENDAR

SOUTH SHUSWAP

Canada Summer Jobsaccepting applications for subsidizing summer workers. Application deadline is January 12th. For info & application: www.canada. ca/en/employment-socialdevelopment/services/funding/ canada-summer-jobs.html

Sunnybrae Hall CoffeehouseSat. Jan 14. Singer-songwriter, poet, potter and world-wide wanderer Lowell Friesen combines a tender-hearted sensitivity, an edgy simmering angst and a dash of tongue in cheek humour to his brand of modern folk, alt-country music. Doors and performer sign-ups at 6:30pm, show begins at 7:30pm.

Registration at SD83 - for kindergarten (English and French Immersion) and some of SD83’s programs of choice opens on Tuesday, January 17 for September 2023. Register at your local or specialty school (Bastion for Early French Immersion or South Canoe for Outdoor Learning). FMI or to register on-line, go to SD83.bc.ca See ad on page 13.

Unplug and Play - Family Literacy Week January 21 to 29. Encouraging families to Unplug from technology and enjoy the freedom of Play! See ad on page 18 for events and registration details.

Lions Club Meat Draw - each Friday, 5 to 7pm at Copper Island Bar and Grill in Sorrento. Carlin Hall Coffee HouseFebruary 4, 7pm. Will feature The Mobley Road Gang (Joanie Robertson, Robbie Milne, James Clark, and Libby Jay Chisholm). FMI call Diane at 250 517 0861. Tuesday workshop/jam - at Carlin Hall, from 6:30-8:30 pm. Contact Larry at 250-675-5426. For Wednesday afternoon jams, 1-3 pm and CRAFTERNOON Jan. 29 to March 5, contact Diane at 250 517 0861.

South Shuswap Library - Kids Crafts, take and make bags to go, Story time, The Bug Guy, Book Sale and adult programs. More details in article on page 33.

Proposed Telus cell phone tower for Sorrento - online meeting set for Feb. 23, presentations at 5 pm and 5:30pm. For info on joining the meeting or complete the survey, go to https://www.csrd. bc.ca/485/Cell-Tower-Proposals

Chamber AGM - February 27 at Cedar Heights Centre. Cocktail hour and networking from 6:35 to 7:15, meeting will commence at 7:30 pm. To become a member of FMI manager@ southshuswapchamber.com See ad on page 9.

Sorrento Centre Events - Weekly playgroup, art course, Wild Church Sorrento, and so much more! The 2023 program and courses are now online. www. sorrentocentre.ca

Sunnybrae Seniors - Wednesday Games Days - Coffee is on at 10:30am, games, cards, sit and be fit, start at 11:30am. Zumba 11 am on Tuesdays. Monday Night Football with appies, Arts and Crafts on Mondays at 11am Email sunnybrae.srs@gmail.com for further details.

TOPS Sorrento - Every Thursday, 8:30 am weigh-in, 9am meeting. 2932 Buckley Rd at the clubhouse. FMI Eileen 306-2212657

Sorrento Lions Club - meet on the 1st and 3rd Thursday of the month (September to June) at 6:45 pm at the Shuswap Lions Manor, 2780 Falaise Road, Sorrento. FMI or to join, sorrentolionsclub@yahoo.ca

Sorrento & Area Health Centre - Appointments Monday - Friday 9:00 am -12:00 pm and 1:00 pm - 4:00 pm. Please phone (250) 675 2167 first / Immunization Clinics 4th Monday, call 250833-4101 for appointment.

Take Steps for Fitness - walking program at Shuswap Lake Estates Lodge, Monday and Thursday 1:30-2:15. FMI 250675-3361

Keep Fit classes - Mon, Wed and Fridays, 9am at Cedar Heights Centre. Sit and Be Fit classes, same days at 10:45am. Yoga offered Wednesday mornings. January to the end of May. www. cedarheightscommunity.ca

Blind Bay Painters - Tuesdays, 9:30am at Blind Bay Memorial Hall. Drop in or FMI Jean Toker 250-253-6965

Electric Monday Jams - at White Lake Community Hall 7 to 11 pm. 3617 Parri Rd.

Copper Island Health CentreMobile Lab Tues and Thur 8:00 am to noon, Foot Care Wed. The Smile People Dental Clinic 3rd Fri, community paramedic last Thurs. of the month. To book appointments and access seniors resource services, call 250-6753661 To book immunizations call 250-833-4101. Located in the

Blind Bay Market Place.

NORTH SHUSWAP Dinner Theatre - Dinner at Eight, Dead by Nine on January 20-22 at the Lakeview Community Centre. Presented by The North Shuswap Players. Two lunch matinees, one dinner show. For tickets and more information contact lakeviewcommunitycentre@ gmail.com 250-299-2158.

Winter Festival - February 1819. Involves community groups & venues throughout the North Shuswap. Presented by NS Chamber of Commerce. Lions Club bed races on Feb. 19. More details to come in February Kicker. www.kicker.ca Yoga - Mondays and Wednesdays at the North Shuswap Hall in Celista. North Shuswap Seniors and Community Resource CentreTuesdays and Thursdays 10 am to noon.

Indoor pickleball - at the North Shuswap Hall in Celista - You must know how to play to attend. 1:00 to 3 pm. January 14, 18, 21, 25, 28. Contact Bonnie Dunn 250-371-7567 for info on pricing & lessons.

Scotch Creek Hub EventsOpen Mic on Sundays at 2pm. Lions Meat & 50/50 Draw - Saturdays 3-5 pm at the Hub in Scotch Creek.

Bingo - at North Shuswap Community Hall - every Monday except stat holidays. Bingo starts at 7:00 pm.

SALMON ARM & AREA Trumpeter Nicholas Dysonkicks off a 12-show season of the Salmon Arm Jazz Club on Thursday, January 12 at the Nexus at First Community on Okanagan Avenue in Salmon Arm. Doors open at 6:30 pm, show at 7:00 pm, admission is by donation. FMI visit www. jazzsalmonarm.com

Harry Manx - world-renowned Canadian artist will perform on Sunday, Jan. 22 at Song Sparrow Hall. For tickets and information, visit https://rootsandblues.ca or phone 250.833.4096

Snowed in Comedy Tour - Feb. 9, 7:30pm - 10:30pm at Salmar Classic. Four international comedians come together to create one amazing show with each bringing a unique and hilarious take, providing something for everyone. www. snowedincomedytour.com

Shuswap Storytellers - meet on the first Thursday of the month at 7pm, next one Feb. 2. Everyone welcome to attend whether you want to tell stories or be a dedicated listener. Info at 250 546-6186.

The Metropolitan Opera - Sat. Jan 14, 9:55am -- “Fedora”, Umberto Giordano at the Salmar Classic, On Alexander, Downtown. For more information, check out ttps:// www.metopera.org/season/incinemas/ Shuswap North Okanagan Rail Trail Governance Advisory Committee - Jan.27, 9:00am to 12:00pm. Splatsin Development Corporation Boardroom (Above the Splatsin Tim Hortons, parking available behind the building). Meeting will be inperson with an option to attend virtually. FMI CSRD events calendar - https://www.csrd. bc.ca/Calendar.aspx?EID=738

Shuswap Music Festival Registration - for the 2023 festival until Jan. 31, 2023. Open to residents of the Shuswap. Festival April 11-29, 2023. Register online at www. ShuswapFestival.com.

Piano Concerto - The Kamloops Symphony’s next Salmon Arm Series concert of the 2022/23 Season is Mozart’s Dark Side, in The Nexus at First on Sunday, February 5 at 2:30 pm. kamloopslive.ca or 1-866-3745483

2nd Annual Salmon Arm Winter Fun Fest – February 18 and 19 at Salmon Arm Fairgrounds. Full lineup of activities https://www. salmonarmfair.com/winterfunfest

Enderby Folk & Pattern Dance - All ages welcome. First Friday of the month at the Enderby Drill Hall, next one Feb 3 at 7pm. More info at 250 546-6186

Coffee House at Gleneden Hall – Every third Saturday, next one Jan. 21. 6:30 pm performer registrations, starts at 7 pm. Music and poetry. FMI Call 250.832.2300

ONLINE / WEBINARS etc

CSRD Board Meeting - Thursday, Jan. 19 at 9:30 am. Pre-register at www csrd bc ca (Noteusually third Thursday) Agenda available approximately one week in advance of the meeting

CSRD Learn how you FireSmart - watch a 30 minute online webinar. Pre-register at www. csrd.bc.ca/firesmart 1-888-2482773.

CLUBS & ORGANIZATIONS

Arts Council for the South Shuswap

Karen Brown 250-515-3276

Blind Bay Bridge Club

Vicki 250-675-2141, vicki00@telus.net Blind Bay Community Society 250-675-3139 blindbayhall@gmail.com

Blind Bay Painters Jean Toker 250253-6965 jtokersix@gmail.com

Blind Bay Garden Club Susan 250-835-2351

Blind Bay Citizens Patrol Carolyn & Tom 403-796-7221 info. bbcp@shaw.ca

Carlin Country Market

Angela Inskip 250-833-2094, carlinpac@hotmail.com

Carlin Elementary Middle School PAC Angela Inskip 250-833-2094, Carlinpac@hotmail.com

Chamber of Commerce (South Shuswap)

Karen Brown 250-515-3276, manager@southshuswapchamber.com

Chase Fish & Game Club

Helen 250-679-8019

Copper Island Health & Wellness Centre 2417 Golf Course Dr. Blind Bay Market 250-675-3661

Copper Island Seniors Resource Services (CISRS)

(beside Spinnake r Cafe) 250-6753661, cisrcbb@gmail.com

CRIMESTOPPERS 1-800-222-8477

CSRD Area C Director Marty Gibbons, mgibbons@csrd.bc.ca

CSRD Area G Director - Natalya Melnychuk, nmelnychuk@csrd.bc.ca

Cruising the Okanagan Car Club Facebook or email Anna-Marie Eckhart

cruisingtheokanagan@gmail.com

Emergency Support Services

Cathy Semchuk and Tom Hansen 250833-5927 sep@csrd.bc.ca

FIRE DEPARTMENTS

Eagle Bay

4445 Eagle Bay Rd., Chief Alan Rendell, 250-517-0429, EagleBayVFD@csrd.bc.ca

Sorrento Hall #1

1164 Passchendale Road, Chief Gary Hoult, 250-517-7980 ShuswapVFD@csrd.bc.ca

Sorrento Hall #2 2505 Greer Rd.,

Chief Gary Hoult, 250-517-7980 ShuswapVFD@csrd.bc.ca

Tappen/Sunnybrae

3732 Sunnybrae-Canoe Point Rd.,

Chief Marc Zaichkowsky, 250-835-8696 TappenSunnybraeVFD@ csrd.bc.ca

White Lake 3607 Parri Rd., Chief Bryan Griffin 250-835-4500, WhiteLakeVFD@csrd.bc.ca

Fire Services CoordinatorA Sean Coubrough 250-833-5955 scoubrough@csrd.bc.ca

FIRST RESPONDERS

Debbie Edwards, ssfr@shaw.ca

GT Dragon Boat Society Susan Eisenberger 250-803-6864, www.gtdragonboatsociety.ca

HEALTH SERVICES

South Shuswap Health Services Society Sue McCrae 250-675-3661, http://sshss.ca Sorrento Health Centre

250-675-2167

Sorrento Health Centre Society Eldene Lindberg 250 675 4168

Neighbourhood Emergency Preparedness Cathy Semchuk and Tom Hansen 250-833-5927 sep@csrd.bc.ca North/ South Shuswap Comm. Resource nsscr@live.ca, Leigh 250-515-4682 Notch Hill Cemetery Society Louise 250-253-5776

Okanagan Regional Library (ORL) South Shuswap Leigh Schaffer 250-675-4818, lschaffer@orl.bc.ca Blind Bay Market www.orl.bc.ca/branches/south-shuswap Probus - Lakeview-Sherry St.Germaine lakeviewprobus@gmail.com Probus - Copper Island- Lynne Lowes ekxpat@gmail.com

ROAD MAINTENANCE

Acciona Infrastructure Maintenance Inc - 1-866 222-4204, Vernon Moti 250-503-3664, aimroads@acciona.ca School District #83 - Area 3 Trustee.. Corryn Grayston cgraysto@sd83.bc.ca Shuswap Back Country Riders.. Dave Crowfoot 403-512-9111 d.crowfoot@gmail.com Shuswap Better at Home Central Intake 250-253-2749, sbahintake@outlook.com Shuswap Community Foundation 250832-5428, www.shuswapfoundation.ca Shuswap Emergency Program Cathy Semchuk and Tom Hansen 250833-5927 sep@csrd.bc.ca Shuswap Hospice Society 250-832-7099, 250-675-2568 (Sorrento)

Shuswap Lake Aero Modelers 1-866-293-3851, info@slams.ca / www.slams.ca Shuswap Theatre Society https://shuswaptheatre.com

Shuswap Volunteer Search & Rescue Luke Gubbles 250-803-1095, shuswapvsar.org

Shuswap Tennis sletennisclub@gmail.com

Shuswap Waterfront Owners Association (SWOA) info@SWOA.ca / www.SWOA.ca

Sorrento Drop In Society 1148 Passchendaele Rd. 250-675-5358, sdis@shaw.ca / www.sdis.ca

Sorrento Food Bank Tina Hysop 250-253-3663,sorrentofoodbank.ca

Sorrento Lions Club Sorrento Lions Manor. sorrentolionsclub@yahoo.ca Web: Sorrento Lions Club - Lions e-Clubhouse

Sorrento Minor Ball Geoff 250-804-6923, sorrentominorball@gmail.com

South Shuswap Canada Day Committee Tammy Packer 250-463-2495

Turtle Valley Donkey Refuge Shirley 250-679-2778 or donkeyrefuge@gmail.com Victim Services

Guy Ramsay 250-679-8638

White Lake Community Hall Society 3617 Parri Road, 778-231-8810, whitelakehall@cablelan.net

White Lake Residents Assoc. - (WLRA) info@wlra.ca / www.wlra.ca

White Lake New Horizons Seniors Club - Gary Loeppky 250-803-2828

DISCLAIMER – The information in this publication is carefully gathered & compiled to ensure maximum accuracy. The South Shuswap Scoop cannot, and does not, guarantee the correctness of all information furnished them, nor the complete absence of errors or omissions: therefore, no responsibility for same can be nor is assumed. Press releases and reports from community organizations and businesses are encouraged but may be edited to fit available space. We reserve the right to refuse any ad or item that conflicts with the intent of this paper. Articles, advertisements and design in this publication may not be reproduced in any way without prior permission of the author. ERRORS AND OMISSIONS: Advertising is accepted on the condition that, in the event of a typographical error, the portion of the advertising space occupied by the error will not be charged for, but the balance of the advertisement will be paid for at the applicable rate.

COMMUNITY HALL INFORMATION

Please check with your local community hall for more information and scheduled events

Blind Bay Memorial Hall 2510 Blind Bay Rd. 250-675-3139 blindbayhall@gmail.com

Facebook: Blind Bay Memorial Hall & Reedman Gallery www.blindbaymemorialhall.ca

Carlin Hall 4051 Myers Rd. Tappen www.carlinhall.net Hall rentals: 250-675-5426 carhall4051@gmail.com

Cedar Heights Community Association 2316 Lakeview Drive, Blind Bay 250-675-2012 www.cedarheightscommunity.ca

Eagle Bay Community Hall 4326 Eagle Bay Rd. www.eaglebayhall.ca Hall rentals: 778-888-7391

Notch Hill Town Hall 1639 Notch Hill Rd. Pres. Anna-Marie Eckhart 250-804-3374

Check us out on Facebook Heritage Rentals - Marianne Romyn 250-835-4721 Event Coordinator - Carol Mowers 250-804-5229

Shuswap Lake Estates Community Centre sle@shuswaplakeestates.com www.shuswaplakeestates.com 250-675-2523

Sorrento Memorial Hall 1150 Passchendaele Road, 250-675-2222

Sunnybrae Community Hall 3595 Sunnybrae Canoe Point Rd. Hall Rentals - Rob Milne: 250-8358657

Facebook.com/SunnybraeCommunityAssociation sunnybraecommunityassociation. com

Sunnybrae Seniors Hall 3585 Sunnybrae Canoe Pt. Rd. sunnybrae.srs@gmail.com 1-877-452-0719

White Lake Community Hall 3617 Parri Road 250-803-4616 whitelakehall@cablelan.net