North Shuswap Kicker December 2022

North Shuswap Young Author Book to Support Care for Animals

By Jan Penner

The North Shuswap has a new author and her name is Jamie Bentley. This Salmon Arm Secondary Grade 12 student created Forever Farm – Our Story, as her Capstone Project, a graduation require ment. It focuses on the animals that have accumulated on the family farm and how helping them helps her.

Jamie has dealt with anxiety issues since she was very young. She found going to school a challenge. Interacting with the animals on her farm and learning about them helped her to cope with situations she encountered when she was away from home. In Kindergarten, she brought chickens and chicks to school to share with her class. Talking about what they did, how she cared for them - es pecially if there was some thing special about them that required extra attention, such as the chicken with a crossed beak – was therapeutic and helped her to be more comfortable in school.

During class awards in Mrs. Schmidt’s class, around Grade 4 or 5, it was predicted that Jamie was the most

likely member of the class to work in a zoo or to have her own zoo. What an incredibly accurate prediction! The Bentley farm is home to well over 100 animals including 27 cows, 90 chickens, 3 goats, 2 llamas, 3 pigs, 3 horses, 4 cats and a dog. 90% of the animals are res cues. Some were rehomed at the farm because their owners were no longer able to look after them for one reason or another and they asked Ja mie and her family to take them on. Some were left at the entrance to the farm with no ex planation, knowing that the Bentleys would take them in. Still others were simply abandoned on back roads and when found, made their way to the farm.

In the past 12 years, many rescued animals have come to the farm. Taking care of so many animals is a lot of hard work and time, but Jamie loves it. It also takes a great deal of money. In a year, food bills are huge and the yearly supply of hay alone can total upwards of $10,000. Aging animals, just (continued on page 3)

Jamie Bentley with her book Forever Farm – Our Story (photo contributed)

North Shuswap Young Author Book to Support Care of Animals continued

like aging people, often need lots of medical care. Vet care for things such as dental issues, neurological problems, urinary stones, spaying and neuter ing are constant costs. When there is nothing that can be done for an animal because of age or illness, they are eutha nized which is sad and another vet cost. In the last 2 months, 2 senior dogs, 1 cat and 1 horse have been put down. Thank fully, the happy times and memories outweigh the heartbreak of losing an animal. While some have passed away, the lives they lived with Jamie and her family were filled with loving care and attention.

Jamie’s love for ani mals was the inspiration for a story she wrote in Grade 10 while doing an on-line English course in which she wrote from an animal’s perspective. Her on-line teacher loved her work and it was the beginning of Forever Farm - Our Story. Writing and compiling the story and pictures took Jamie over 4 months. The 60-page book is self-published. The cost of publishing can run to over $100 per book but Jamie takes advantage of multiple orders to bring the cost down substantially. The

book is available to order through Jamie’s e-mail: jamiebentley2095@ icloud.com. It sells for $30, which covers the cost of publishing and allows for a $10 donation towards the care of the animals. The book is filled with bright photographs and stories that tell about many of the animals that live and have lived with Jamie over the years. The stories are well written and thought provoking.

Anxiety continues to be something Jamie deals with every day. Her courage in undertaking this project is inspiring for all of us, but especially for those of us who have difficulty dealing with everyday issues. Working with the animals helps Jamie to center herself and focus on the job at hand. She hopes to continue working with animals, and is considering Animal Protection, Con servation and Rehabilitation, Animal Assisted Wellness, or a career with a similar focus.

Jamie would like to thank her family and friends, her teachers and the community for their support with mak ing Forever Farm – Our Story a reality.

North Shuswap

By Alison Elmes

The Christmas Hampers will be distributed on Wednesday, Decem ber 14, 2022 between 1pm and 2pm at the North Shuswap Community Hall, 5456 Squilax/Anglemont Road, Celista.

If you or someone you know is need of a hamper, please call Janice at 250-955-2393 for more information by Sunday December 4. Pick up of hampers will be “Drive Through” only.

Donations of non

and/or gifts can contin ue to be dropped off at Scotch Creek Market and Ross Creek Market until December 11. Cheques made payable to the North Shuswap Food Bank can be mailed to North Shuswap Food Bank, 7465 Squilax/ Anglemont Road, Anglemont, B.C. V0E 1M8. Non tax-deductible receipts will be issued.

Jamie with her calf Ellie (photo contributed)

Shuswap

at Home

Although scammers are always active, this is their busiest time of year. When people are distracted preparing for Christmas, the scammers ramp up their efforts to take your money and personal information.

Some of the scams at Christmas involve emails with fake purchase invoices using the name of a reputable company or a Shipping Status mes sage. With so many online orders being shipped at Christmas time, people are more likely to click something they wouldn’t normally click. Clicking on the link can install malware or take you to a phishing page which will attempt to obtain sensitive information such as usernames, passwords and credit card details.

Don’t respond to direct messages. Scammers are good at using the logos of legitimate businesses to make it look legit. Instead, go to the website of the company directly, do not click on the link because it could take you to their fake site. Never reply to emails that ask you to verify your information or confirm your user ID or password. Never disclose information about your finances, bank accounts or credit cards (not even the credit card expiry date).

Along with the annoyance of constant phone calls from spammers, we are bombarded with texts now that want you to click on a link to deposit supposedly free money. You can be sure they wouldn’t go to all this trouble if they weren’t successful often enough to make it profitable. We constantly must be vigil and doubtful whenever we answer the phone, look at text mes sages and emails or use social media sites.

They also use spoof phone num bers, now that most of us have call

By Editor Jo Anne Malpass

By Editor Jo Anne Malpass

display. We get a lot of fake calls from 955 numbers, which at first glance appear to be from the North Shuswap. One of the latest scams was a husband receiving a call from his wife’s cell number. A woman was screaming in the background pretending to be his wife and the caller said they had kidnapped her. None of this was true and luckily the husband called police, his wife hadn’t been kidnapped and he did not email transfer any money.

One of our readers recently shared with us a conversation they had with someone interested in purchasing the vehicle they had listed on Facebook and Kijiji. Even though they had a Car fax.ca report, the potential buyer was insistent they get one from vehiclefax. ca, which they quickly discovered is a scam site. We were also directed to a site called scamdoc, which evaluates “digital identities” reliability (email ad dress or website). This is one more tool to use. Google the website and add scam doc to find out if this is a known spam site.

If you have a friend or relative you think may be at risk, talk to them about scammers before it happens. Let them know you are available if they have any questions about an email or a phone call.

If you or someone you know has been the target of a telephone, Internet, email or other type of scam and gave personal or financial information by mistake, you should contact the Royal Canadian Mounted Police Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre. Toll-free: 1-888495-8501

The Kicker staff wishes everyone a Merry Christmas and a happy, scam free New Year.

Kickin’ it up with Jay at

NorthShuswap.Info

Jay Simpson - Director, Electoral Area ‘F’ (North Shuswap & Seymour Arm ) Columbia Shuswap Regional District Email: JSimpson@csrd.bc.ca

Christmas is coming, I know I’m getting fat, won’t you please put some non-perishable food stuff or a cheque in the North Shuswap Christmas Hampers hat! Yes, that time again, and though I’m not the greatest wordsmith, the sentiment is there. Now is the time to help out those less fortunate through donations, a helping hand, or even just kind words.

And speaking of donating, I’ve had a few conversations with our friendly neighbourhood waste technicians at the transfer station (dump). The re-use shed is not getting enough use it seems. Every day they see good items going into the bins when they could be dropped off for re-use. This is a great way to reduce waste, and help out others in the community. This is far, far better than placing your well-loved couch or stove at the end of your road, hoping that someone will pick it up, and in the meantime, it makes the community look like a dump. Let’s use the tools we have to make our community, and neighbours, better.

And speaking of making things better, I’ve had a few First Meetings with community members who are interested in Food Security, Child Care and Seniors Housing. Interest ingly, these three topics cover us from birth to, well, our later years. These first meetings have been set up to gauge inter est, and get a skeleton group together to try to move things forward. These groups need to be driven from, and by, the community. I am very interested and supportive of all of these initiatives and I can access some resources to help, but we need broad based support, and more people able to focus on each issue.

The Food Security group met November 15th and we were joined by the Shuswap Food Action Society. This group has been around since 2010 and we invited them (and then they brought lunch!), so we could get some idea of the pro grams, resources, needs of a group that has that much experi ence. I think they are doing a number of things that we aren’t ready for yet, but they have great insight into the working of a community food program and are ready and willing to help. That’s awesome.

At the meeting we talked about the threats to the food supply; natural disasters (like floods or fire), war (naa, that’ll never happen), droughts (can anyone say California), basical ly the supply lines that we rely on to get food from a long way away, to our mouth. We chatted about the grain mill in Celista and how they’re trying to get more acres in grain so that they can provide local bakeries and the public with fresh ground, very healthy, flour. We chatted about the virtual impossibility of making a good living being a small farmer, even a liv ing wage is challenging (mostly a labour of love). And we wondered how the community can get involved in support ing local farms. Right now, there is but one farm providing weekly food boxes of fresh veggies to people in our commu nity. They, and other farms, would love to add more acres of production, but need people in the community to commit to taking the local fresh produce. And ideally, early enough in the year that they can plan, and plant, to provide it. Knowing in February or March allows them to begin seed germination,

Kickin’ it up with Jay

(continued from page 5)

so that enough veggies come up early and often. Contact me…

Child Care in the North Shuswap was another meeting last week. There are businesses out here that need staff, year-round as well as the summer season. There are families out here, that have young children, that cannot take those jobs as there is no child care available. We met at the school where Chris, the principal, was very enthusiastic about the school being a good place for child care as it already has the playground, is fenced from the road, and has other facilities necessary. Allison from SD83 (School District 83) told us about new govern ment programs that may be available. Kimberly Martin and Kaytlyn Mac donald are two mothers who are ready to begin the process. BUT, we need more information from the community. Are there ECE or ECE-A’s out there in the North Shuswap that we don’t know about? (Early Childhood Educators) Also, how many families need/want childcare? You can email northshuchildsociety@gmail.com for further information.

Hmm… I’m coming to the end of my allotted space in the Kicker so I’ll leave Seniors Housing until next month. But what I’m really saying here is that these groups are all important to the wellbeing and future of our com munity. If it takes a village to raise a child, just think of what our communi ty can do. Contact me if you have any questions or an interest and I’ll fill you in on the next steps.

Please have a safe and enjoyable Christmas holiday 2022! And may your 2023 be even better!

Jay Simpson JSimpson@csrd.bc.ca 250-517-9578 FB & Web: NorthS huswap.Info

RECOVERED STOLEN VEHICLE

On November 5, 2022 at 2:48 pm, Chase RCMP officers who were on routine patrol observed a suspicious white Chevrolet pickup on First Avenue near Pine Street. When Police approached, a man ran off. Further investiga tion revealed that the vehicle had been reported stolen from Kamloops in October. The vehicle was towed to a local impound yard to be returned to the registered owner.

STOLEN VEHICLE

On November 6, Chase RCMP were advised that a white Chevrolet pickup was stolen from a local busi ness during the night. The theft was captured on video surveillance – the theft is still under investigation.

COLLISION

On November 7 at 4:23 pm, Chase RCMP were advised of a head-on collision on the Trans Canada High way, west of Chase. Both vehicles were fully engulfed in flames when Police arrived. All five occupants were out of their vehicles thanks to the assistance of Good Samaritans. All the occupants suffered injuries which ranged in severity, but are expected to survive. Good Samari tans stayed with the injured, providing First Aid on the side of the highway despite challenging weather condi tions. Chase Fire Department attended, extinguished the fire and assisted in caring for the injured. Three ambulances were required to transport the injured to hospital. Witness

RCMP News

(continued from page 7)

es explained that a Dodge Durango travelling westbound lost traction on the icy road and entered the oncoming lane where it struck an eastbound Mazda pickup that was unable to avoid the collision.

CHECK WELL BEING

On November 8, Chase RCMP received several calls from concerned citizens who reported that a white semitruck had been parked on the side of the highway near Pritchard for several days. Callers were concerned that the driver had suffered a med ical emergency or might be in need of assistance. Police attended and spoke with the driver, who was alive and well. He explained that his truck broke down two days ago and the mechanic was de layed due to the weather. The driver said that he appreciat ed the wellness check.

SUSPICIOUS CIRCUMSTANCES

On November 9 at 3:48 pm, Chase RCMP received a report that three adults were smashing rocks at the Chase Public Works yard. They were seen leaving the area in a black sedan. Police located the vehicle nearby and spoke with the occupants. The driver said that he was a gold pros pector and did not realize that particular rock was private property.

NOT A STRUCTURE FIRE

On November 10 at 6:41 pm, Chase RCMP were advised of a possible structure fire near Hillside Avenue. The caller said he could see yellow flashing lights at a residence but did not want to get involved and had no further information. No exact address was provided. Police

(continued on page 9)

and the Chase Fire Depart ment responded and carried out patrols. The only fire located was safely contained in a propane fire pit.

IMPAIRED DRIVER

On November 11 at approximately 7:00 am, a Chase RCMP officer couldn’t help but notice when a grey Ford pickup made a bizarre left hand turn from Balmoral Road into the oncoming lane of the Trans Canada High way. The officer reacted to prevent a head-on collision, as the pickup hopped two curbs, struck a concrete barri er and then conducted a U-turn. The pickup exited back onto Bal moral Road, began to fishtail and drove into a ditch. The driver, a 20-year-old male with an Enderby address, was not injured in the colli sion. The officer noted that the driver’s breath smelled of alcohol. The driver was therefore required to provide samples of his breath into the roadside screening device. The breath samples produced ‘fail’ readings, which indicat ed the driver’s ability to drive was impaired by alcohol. The driver was prohibited from driving for 90 days. His vehi cle was towed from the ditch to the impound lot, where it will remain for 30 days.

CHIMNEY FIRE

On November 13 at 1:26 pm, Chase RCMP were advised of a house fire on Loakin Bear Creek Road. Police were told that the residence was outside the ‘Fire Protection Area’ and as such, no fire departments would attend. Police attended and learned that the home owner had been battling a chimney fire – alone, with a garden hose – since early that morning. By the time Police arrived, the fire appeared to be out and structure relatively undamaged. There was little that Police could do, other

than to ensure everyone was fine and wish them all the best.

HOUSE FIRE

On November 17 at 8:27 pm, Chase RCMP were requested to assist at a structure fire in Celista. Upon arrival, Police learned that a small residence was fully engulfed. Only one person was in the home and had escaped with no injuries. The fire was caused by flammable materials placed too closely to a wood stove. The resi dence was not equipped with functioning smoke detectors. By the time the home owner was alerted to the fire, it was already out of control.

Three North Shuswap Fire De partments attended: Anglemont, Celista, and Scotch Creek.

North Shuswap First Responders and BCAS para medics were also on scene to ensure everyone was well cared for.

HOUSE FIRE

On November 19 at 12:25 am, Chase RCMP were advised of a house fire on Ska Cheen Drive. Adams Lake Fire Department at tended and contained the fire, thereby preventing damage to neighbouring residences. Unfortunately, the home was completely destroyed. Ini tially, Police could not locate the occupants of the resi dence. To everyone’s relief, the residents later arrived at the scene and confirmed that no one had been inside. The cause of the fire is not considered to be suspicious in nature.

Chase RCMP would like to take this opportunity to encourage everyone to review their home fire safety protocols in preparation for the winter season. Local Fire Departments are an excellent source of information and are typically happy to answer any fire safety questions.

. . . . SideKick

Focus on Kicker Advertisers and Supporters

By Sionna McTavish

THE HUB in Scotch Creek is not only a Restaurant and Pub where residents and visitors to the North Shuswap can enjoy dining out, events, and live music in a “family atmosphere” said Angela Lagore (Bischoff), Co-Owner of THE HUB and the Scotch Creek Family Fun Centre, there is a Fitness Centre on the lower level of the building with 24/7 access, the Fresh n’ Tasty summertime ice-cream shop, and plans for other amenities cur rently being developed that will contribute to THE HUB further becoming a “community gathering hot spot.”

Related to settlers who arrived in the North Shuswap during the late 1800’s, and living here since she was born, Angela has deep roots and connections to the community that span across past, present and future: this is where I “wish to spend the rest of my life ” she said. Just as Angela provided care for patients in her previous career as a nurse, Angela contin ues to care about her community.

Thus, in 2018 when multiple busi nesses in Scotch Creek had closed and com mercial buildings sat vacant, Angela saw an

opportunity for change, and stepped away from nursing to focus on entrepreneurship. At the heart of Angela’s vision compelling her to strive towards creating economic growth, employment, and long-term viability in the North Shuswap is the belief that we can work “together to make a more efficient and sustainable commu nity for our generation and generations to come.”

It is important to Angela and THE HUB Team to continue hosting and supporting events for local community organizations, and expanding services and facilities in Scotch Creek. For in stance, they recently began managing THE HUB Car Wash. After extensive cleaning and upgrades, all three bays are now fully operable, a new vacuum is available, and a debit or credit card tap system has been installed to “streamline payment and prevent theft” said Angela. Additional improvements are forthcoming.

As well, exciting plans for expansion are underway at the Family Fun Centre. Along with pre-existing mini golf, arcade games, and bowling, there will be outdoor laser tag, a batting cage, and e-scooters. Upgraded single and quadriped rental bicy cles have been added to the fleet, making it possible for groups of two to six people to ride together.

Live outdoor performances – music, theatre, etc. – for children and families are also being scheduled at the Fami ly Fun Centre for the upcoming 2023 season, which will run from May to September. And, a Steak and Pasta House restaurant is slated to open, creating more employment opportunities in Scotch Creek.

THE HUB currently has a “strong, core group of twelve year round employ ees” said Angela. The number of staff increased to approximately sixty this past summer, most of whom are youth, and numbers are expected to rise again this coming year. Angela views the hiring process as a learning experience, espe

Mini Golf at the Fun Centre

from page 10) cially for youth, and ensures each applicant submits a cover letter with resume, and has a formal interview.

It’s remarkable to see self-con fidence emerge and grow in young employees, and by the end of the season many are thriving and eager to return the following year, as they have formed friendships, received training, excelled in their positions, and “express interest in other fields” said Angela.

THE HUB has also purchased a shuttle bus that will start servic ing a route ranging from Squilax to St. Ives at the beginning of December, and the Van Shuttle will be in operation for two events this month.

One being a Community Karaoke Christmas Party. A table can be pre-booked for this festive evening of music, dinner and drinks by calling THE HUB Restaurant at 250-955-2002. The Lions Club meat draw every Saturday at 3:00 pm will take place in December, too. Thereafter, THE HUB will be closed for the holidays starting December 24 to January 3, 2023.

A very Merry Christmas and New Year of prosperity and success is wished for THE HUB. Thank you for supporting the North Shuswap Kicker through advertising and all of the posi tive contributions your company makes to our community.

CSISS Invasive Mussel Sampling 2022

CSISS Release

The Columbia Shuswap Invasive Species Society (CSISS) has wrapped up another field season monitoring 12 lakes for invasive mussels across the Columbia-Shuswap region. Between June and September, staff collected 116 water samples that were analyzed for the presence of invasive mussels. No invasive mussels were detected in any of the samples collected this season.

Invasive zebra and quagga mussels have been the focus of the Province’s Invasive Mussel Defence Program, which involves early detection lake monitoring, in addition to water craft inspection stations, education and outreach. The CSISS is supported by the Ministry of Land, Water and Resource Stewardship, the Habitat Conservation Trust Foundation and the Shuswap Watershed Council to monitor priority lakes in the upper Columbia and Shuswap watersheds at-risk of intro duction of invasive mussels.

Currently, there are no known infestations of zebra or quagga mussels in B.C., including the Columbia Shuswap region. If invasive mussels were to become established in a waterbody in B.C., it would be extremely difficult to eradicate them and very costly to manage and mitigate the negative impacts. Cleaning, draining and drying watercraft and stop ping at mandatory watercraft inspection stations are easy and effective methods to prevent the introduction and spread of aquatic invasive species across the province.

When visitors with watercraft travel to our province, there is always a risk of accidental introduction of aquat ic invasive species, including zebra and quagga mussels. Through their summer outreach program, CSISS staff found that 55% of boaters (115 surveyed) were local to the Colum bia Shuswap region, 20% were from other areas of B.C., and 20% were from Alberta; almost half of the visiting Albertans keep their boat in the Columbia Shuswap year-round.

CSISS staff also visited smaller lakes with hand-launch sites, like Cedar Lake near Golden and Williamson Lake in Revelstoke, to provide information to owners of smaller wa tercraft, like canoes and paddleboards, which are also capable of spreading aquatic invasive species.

Unlike B.C.’s native mussels, zebra and quagga mus sels attach to hard surfaces, like hulls and engines of water craft. Due to their small size, they often go unnoticed while hitchhiking on watercraft moving between waterbodies. An introduction of invasive mussels into B.C. would seriously threaten our native aquatic ecosystems.

Zebra mussels were recently detected spreading further east in Canada, into Lac Témiscouata in Québec. This lake is found in the northern reaches of the St. John River watershed

CSISS staff sampling at Pierre’s Point on Shuswap Lake (photo contributed)

which covers a large portion of New Brunswick, a province that has yet to see an infestation of invasive mussels.

This new occurrence of zebra mussels in Canada high lights the potential risk for humans to serve as vectors for transporting aquatic invasive species. Watercraft owners must remain vigilant and recognize the important role they play in preventing or slowing the spread of aquatic invasive species.

Members of the public are encouraged to report any suspected invasive species using the provincial “Report In vasives BC” smartphone application (available for download from www.gov.bc.ca/invasive-species) or, if invasive mussels are suspected, to call the Report All Poachers and Polluters hotline at 1-877-952-7277.

SWC Launches Fourth Intake to Water Quality Grant Program

SWC Release

The Shuswap Watershed Council (SWC) is inviting another round of applications to its Water Quality Grant Pro gram, beginning December 1.

“One of our objectives as a watershed council is to protect and maintain the water quality in Shuswap and Mara Lakes,” explains Erin Viei ra, program manager for the SWC. “In particular, we’re focussed on reducing nutrient inputs to rivers and lakes.”

Excessive amounts of nutrients, especially phospho rus, contribute to algal blooms which reduce the quality of water for drinking and recre ation, and may become toxic to people, pets and livestock.

The purpose of the grant program is to provide financial assistance for projects and management practices that keep nutrients on the land and in the soil, being used by crops and vegetation – not washing off into nearby creeks and rivers through rain, snowmelt or flooding.

Up to $55,000 is available in the current intake. Farm ers, agri-businesses, hobby farmers, landowners, and stewardship groups within the Shuswap watershed are invited to apply for funding to go toward projects or new agri culture and land management practices that reduce, capture, or divert nutrients away from

surface waters. Applicants are required to contribute at least 50% of the total project cost in cash and/or in-kind contribu tions. Funding will be distrib uted to successful applicants in early 2023.

To-date, the SWC has provided 9 grants to Shuswap-area farms and stew ardship groups for projects that improve nutrient retention and management including riparian restoration, riverbank stabilization, wetland develop ment, livestock fencing, flood protection, manure and efflu ent storage, cover crop trials, and field drainage improve ment. Prospective applicants to the grant program can learn more from a short video the SWC produced in 2020, avail able on their YouTube channel (youtube.com/@shuswapwa ter).

Last month, the SWC published a Phosphorus Action Plan for the Shuswap watershed as another initia tive to encourage and inform residents about how to reduce their ‘phosphorus footprint’, thereby helping to protect water quality.

More information about the grant program and an ap plication package is available at www.shuswapwater.ca. The application period is open from December 1 2022 – Jan uary 31 2023.

Chamber News

Adam Oruclar, President clar@gds1.ca / 403-805-6227

“Collaborative Growth”

Hello Residents and Business Leaders. The North Shuswap truly is an unparalleled paradise … The North Shuswap Chamber of Commerce represents over 100+ businesses from all areas of our 100km+ shore line. Our mission is to provide a safe and nurturing commu nity for all families and individuals to live, work and play. Where businesses can thrive and support one another for positive growth and sustainability. Where an enhanced quali ty of life is a shared responsibility.

Join me in appreciation … My name is Adam Oruclar, and I now have the privilege of leading the North Shuswap Chamber of Commerce as President. A little more about me later, as I first wanted to thank all the com munity residents and business members who contribute and make the North Shuswap the best place on Earth.

I would specifically like to thank Angela Lagore who has served as the NSCC Board President for the last 4 years. Angela’s dedication to the community and passion for a healthy business environment is second to none and contin

Please also join me in thanking Jeff Tarry for serving the NSCC in many roles, most recently as the Treasurer. We ap preciate all of Jeff’s efforts over the years serving the Board

A big shout out to Sharon Toews who will now fill the Vice President role, as well as Angela Cudmore who is our Thank-you to Michelle Cyr, Joseph Berger, Rob Pawluk, Amanda Chypiska, Karla Bragg, and Jesse Kon who will continue their terms as Board directors into the 2023 year.

Our Board would also like to recognize Jay Simpson for

Chamber President Adam Oruclar

Finally, please join me in welcoming David Leard to the NSCC as our newest Board member!

A little bit about me … I have been a part-time resident in the North Shuswap since 1998. After my fathers’ death in 2013 (and his last wish to be buried in the North Shuswap ceme tery), I knew that the North Shuswap was destined to be my permanent home. After several years of living part time here in Magna Bay, 2022 was the year in which my family decided it was time to finally make the move after a realization that we had life backwards! Instead of coming out here for every long weekend and holiday throughout the year, then heading back to the city, why not just go into the city on certain weekends and truly LIVE out here! This was a tough decision, however one that my wife and three boys are glad we made.

My business background has primarily been focused on consulting. I have worked with many organizations on their business and project development strategies, representing a wide range of industry sectors, from Information Technology to Land Development. I am a founding Board member of the CSRD Economic Development Society, and I am also a volun teer Firefighter with the Celista Fire Dept.

I hope to utilize these skills and experience to provide val ue to the NSCC and the North Shuswap community as a whole.

My guiding principles … The central theme that will guide my efforts as the NSCC President will be centered around “Collaborative Growth”

With such a diverse collection of organizations calling the North Shuswap home, it is imperative that the community works together in a collaborative nature to drive sustainable growth for everybody.

From established family businesses to larger companies working in the area, to new organizations, and work-fromhome start-ups, there has never been a better time to thrive in such a dynamic environment. (Not to mention that the North Shuswap is one of the most beautiful places to work on the planet!)

While our sub-committees will continue to work on ini tiatives like business promotion and recognition, area beau tification, community marketing, and food sustainability, our primary focus will always align these efforts around providing Collaborative Growth for everyone. Every business; big or small, every resident.

I welcome any and every opportunity for dialog and feed back. If you have thoughts, comments, concerns and/or ideas, I would love to hear from you. Adam Oruclar aoruclar@gds1.ca

Detailed Design Presented to Pathway Team

By Jo Anne Malpass

With the goal of an active transporta tion pathway from Squilax to St. Ives, Law son Engineering has completed a detailed 90% design plan with an opinion of prob able costs for the first prioritized section

from Ross Creek Park to Fraser Bay.

Columbia Shuswap Regional District Team Leader of Community Services Ryan Nitchie and Blake Lawson presented the plan to the North Shuswap Pathway Team in late October.

The estimated cost of the section from Ross Creek Community Park in Magna Bay to Fraser Bay pullout in Anglemont, is about $808,000. The detailed design has been sent to the Ministry of Transportation and Infrastructure for its review process for permitting. Little Shuswap Lake Band has been asked to do a Preliminary Field Reconnaissance and the CSRD is awaiting that report before addressing the next steps regarding indigenous consultation.

The first section is proposed to be a paved 2 metre wide, 2.4 kilometre path way, separated by 3m from the edge of the asphalt on the Squilax-Anglemont. The design proposes one crosswalk to Ross

Creek store, but this will require approval and a possible traffic assessment from the Ministry.

Once indigenous consultation and Ministry review and permitting are com pleted, (which could take close to a year) the design for that section should be shelf ready to apply for grants. The next provin cial active transportation grant is anticipat ed to be open for applications in October 2023. The provincial grant has a maximum of $500,000 per project, leaving a bal ance of approximately $300,000 needed to complete the first stage. The CSRD is also exploring grant funding opportunities through the Federal Active Transportation grant program.

The pathway team will continue to work with our Area Director on CSRD prioritization and budget implications and look at identifying other grant opportunities and potential fundraising projects.

Notes from the CSRD Board Meeting

By Jo Anne Malpass

Columbia Shuswap Regional District (CSRD) Director and City of Salmon Arm Councillor Kevin Flynn was ac claimed to the position of Board Chair and Area E Director Rona Martin was acclaimed Vice-Chair at the inaugural meeting of the newly elected officials at the November 24 regular board meeting.

Flynn was elected for his first term as Board Chair in November 2019.

Flynn also introduced the new Chief Administrative Officer John MacLean at his first boarding meeting since taking the position earlier in November. MacLean was CAO for the Regional District of Kootenay and then for the Cariboo Regional District before accepting his new position.

Before the start of the Inaugural meeting, the CSRD Board were sworn into service for the four-year term of office by BC Provincial Court Judge Mari ane Armstrong. (From left) Mayor Colleen Anderson, District of Sicamous; Mayor Ron Ozust, Town of Golden; Director Karen Cathcart, Electoral Area A; Councillor Tim Lavery, City of Salmon Arm; Natalya Melnychuk, Electoral Area G, Judge Mariane Armstrong, David Brooks-Hill, Electoral Area B; Rho na Martin, Electoral Area E, Mayor Gary Sulz, City of Revelstoke; Councillor Kevin Flynn, City of Salmon Arm, Dean Trumbley, Electoral Area D. Missing from the photo are Marty Gibbons, Electoral Area C and Jay Simpson, Elec toral Area F. (Viktoria Haack Photo)

In other business at the meeting:

Notice of Cancellation for a Community Charter Section 57 Notice on Title - The Corporate Officer received a report from a building inspector that the condition that gave rise to the filing of the notice under section 57 has been rectified and a cancellation notice was sent to the registrar of land titles to cancel the note against the property at 7761 Columbia Drive, Anglemont. Marty Herbert, Team Leader By-law Enforcement explained the property owner has met all the regulations and bylaws, since the notice was put on title in 2013. Section 57 is used to notify future purchasers and reduce liability on the CSRD.

Community Emergency Preparedness Fund Grant

The Board approved submitting an application to the 2022 Community Emergency Preparedness Fund for a

Volunteer and Composite Fire Departments Equipment and Training Program grant for up to $390,000 for training resources and firefighting equipment for the CSRD’s 13 fire departments.

The grant provides up to $30,000 per fire department to help small rural fire departments meet the demands of new training requirements instituted by the Office of the Fire Commissioner (OFC) in the new firefighter minimum training standards. It also provides for the purchase of new equipment to meet the growing demands placed on volun teer departments.

Solid Waste Management Plan (SWMP)

Ben Van Nostrand, Team Leader Environmental Health Services gave a joint presentation with engineering firm, Morrison Hershfield, recommending the CSRD initiate a full solid waste plan renewal starting in 2023, with the goal to complete the process in 2-3 years.

The key topics were dealing with compliance and new landfill criteria (liner and leaching collection system), new requirements and funding of new costs, access to collection and transfer services, diversion efforts, demolition and land clearing waste diversion, enforcement and education.

A detailed staff report will be brought to the board’s December meeting outlining the process and cost to com plete the plan renewal.

100% Renewable Energy Proposal – A presentation was made to the board by from Calvin Beauchesne regard ing the West Kootenay proposal. It recommends big moves in Transportation (switching to electric vehicles and more charger stations), Buildings (raise efficiency standards for new and increase efficiency of existing) grants available for retro-fitting, Waste (capture methane gas from landfills, reduce waste, compost program) and Electricity (make sure increase comes from clean sources). 12 communities in the Kootenays, including Golden are involved in the initiative.

WildSafeBC Year End Report – A presentation from Olivia Lemke, WildSafe BC Columbia Shuswap Coordina tor showed highlights of the program in Areas C and E.

68 garbage bins were tagged for being placed out early (on average, 75% of bins tagged in the first survey were not tagged in the second survey), Display booths saw 1,829 en gagements, Door-to-door 228 residents reached, Facebook 56 posts, increased followers from 99 (May) to 162 (Nov), Bare Campsite Program 3 campgrounds, Business Pledge. Indigenous Engagement at a Safety Fair at Skwlāx Well ness Centre and at Salute to the Sockeye. Eight bears pray workshops were held and 129 youth were reached through a WildSafe Ranger program.

Unsecured solid waste and residential fruit trees were the most common attractants for wildlife, and another chal lenge has been rats, raccoons, and other nuisance animals accessing attractants in communities.

North Shuswap Celebrates Christmas

By Jo Anne Malpass

Christmas parade, market, party, dinner and colouring contest – There’s something for everyone on the North Shuswap this Christmas season.

Colouring sheets for the Kicker Children’s colouring contest are now available. North Shuswap children wishing to enter can pick them up at PharmaChoice, Scotch Creek Market, Sunnyside (Fetch Panda), North Shuswap School and Ross Creek Store. They can be returned to the same locations by Sunday December 4. Winners to be announced at the Lion’s Club Children’s Christ mas Party on December 11 at the North Shuswap Community Hall in Celista.

On December 11, the Lions Kids Christmas Party will run from 1:30 to 3:00 pm at the Community Hall in Celista. Have your picture taken with Santa while you give him your wish list, fish pond, face painting, hot dogs, hot chocolate, coffee and juice. Raffle for the adults. For more information, contact Marlene at 250-955-0378.

Move Beyond Your Expectations

DARLA MILLER & RACHEL STONE PERSONAL REAL ESTATE CORPORATION

Lakeview Centre is hosting a Free Potluck Christmas Dinner for members and their guests on Saturday, December 17. Centre will provide the turkey, potatoes, and gravy, and each family needs to bring either a veg etable dish, salad, stuffing, or desert. This will be a Bring Your Own beverages, plates and cutlery event.

The Kicker is happy to again be joining the Lions Club at their kid’s party for the 25th Kicker colouring contest where the winners and then the other local children at the party will choose their gifts.

$3,899,000

3418 Shuswap Road, Kamloops

BEDS: 3 BATHS: 3 4,289 SQ.FT. 11.56 ACRES

Private, serene, and elegantly designed, this fully landscaped property is easily identifiable as an artist’s inspiration! Overlooking the South Thompson River & approx. 339’ of riverfront.

$499,900

The Christmas Parade in Scotch Creek starts off a busy weekend on Friday December 9. Everyone is welcome to join. The parade starts at 5:30 from the corner of Imai and Squilax An glemont Rd. at 5:30 pm, ending at Scotch Creek Market where Santa will be available for pictures. Barbequed hot dogs will be served nearby. Santa is looking for floats, big and small, to join him on the parade. To be part of the fun, con tact Debbie from the Chamber of Commerce at 250-804-8097 or email executivedirector@northshuswapbc.com

4439 Squilax-Anglemont Road, Scotch Creek

We are expecting well over 100 children there and the Kicker, with the help of generous donors, makes sure there is a gift for each one of them.

BEDS: 1 BATHS: 1 692 SQ.FT. 3.40 ACRES

A four season vacation or forever destination awaits! Located only minutes away from Shuswap Lake and Crowfoot Mountain, this private lot is the ultimate buy now, build later property.

$469,000

5247 Meadow Creek Road, Celista 31.46 ACRE LOT

Darla Miller PREC Rachel Stone 250.371.1251 778.220.2759

PAST SALE

The next day, December 10, Celista Hall Christmas Farmers’ Market will run from 10 am to 2 pm. There will be many vendors with locally produced gifts at this fundraiser for the North Shuswap Community Hall. Lunch, coffee and goodies available. Gift collection door prize, make a day of it. To book a table, call Varya at 250-318-5846.

Darla Miller PREC Rachel Stone 250.371.1251 778.220.2759

$4,950,000

3836 Zinck Road, Scotch Creek

BEDS: 4 BATHS: 4 3,194 SQ.FT. 0.48 ACRES

Welcome to the White House at Shuswap Lake! With the perfect blend of country charm and elegance, this luxurious custom-built timber frame home has 131’ of south-facing waterfront.

Darla Miller PREC 250.371.1251

$2,399,000

PAST SALE

Acres of hiking trails, diverse vegetation, and amazing mountain views, this 31.46 acre lot is the dream property you have been waiting for! With no zoning, the possibilities are endless.

Rachel Stone 778.220.2759

This popular, free community event wouldn’t be possible without the generous support of volunteers and donors. Dona tions for the Colouring Contest are now being gratefully accept ed. A donation can be an actual prize (toy, game, gift certificate, etc.) or a cheque which we at the Kicker will use to purchase prizes and gifts.

If you wish to donate, please call or text the Kicker at 250515-2830, or send us an email to kicker@kicker.ca.

5-6172 Squilax Anglemont Road, Magna Bay

BEDS: 6 BATHS: 3.5 3,222 SQ.FT. 0.55 ACRES

Luxurious, bright, and modern, this Blake Point home is the perfect Shuswap getaway! With breath taking views of the lake and mountains beyond, 115’ of prime waterfront with a dock and buoy.

Darla Miller PREC Rachel Stone 250.371.1251 778.220.2759

PAST SALE

$1,565,000

3019 Durham Road, Sorrento

BEDS: 4 BATHS: 1 1,662 SQ.FT. 0.35 ACRES

Spectacular views, privacy, and a prime location in Sorrento, this is the perfect Shuswap Lake retreat! Relax and enjoy 146’ of waterfront with 3 buoys + a dock in this three season cabin.

Darla Miller PREC Rachel Stone 250.371.1251 778.220.2759

CP Holiday Train Begins 2022 tour

The Canadian Pacific (CP) Holiday Train program began at the end of Novem ber, with the first of two brightly decorated trains departing the Montreal area for the opening shows of the tour in Maine. Over the next weeks, the program will raise money, food and awareness for local food banks with 168 performances in two countries.

“The CP Holiday Train, now in its 24th year, celebrates family, community and service to one another,” said CP Pres ident and CEO Keith Creel. “We hope the train’s bright lights and music foster celebrations across Canada and the U.S., bringing with those celebrations a reminder of our duty to help those less fortunate this holiday season.”

After two years of virtual concerts due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the CP Holiday Train program returns with in-per son concerts, including shows for the first time in Maine and the Eastern Townships of Quebec. In the coming weeks, the two trains will make stops in communities on CP’s rail net work in eight U.S. states and six Canadian provinces. The final show of the 2022 tour will take place in Port Coquitlam, B.C., on Dec. 18.

There will be shows in Sicamous, Canoe and Salmon Arm on December 15 with the last one of the day at across from Notch Hill Hall, 1639 Notch Hill Road. Train arrives 9:10 with show from 9:30 pm - 10:00 pm featuring MacKenzie Porter and Virginia to Vegas. On December 16, the train will be in Chase on Shuswap Avenue, across from Chase RCMP build ing, arrives at 2:35 pm, show from 2:45 - 3:15 pm.

Since its inception in 1999, the CP Holiday Train has raised more than $21 million and collected 5 million pounds of food for community food banks along CP’s network.

“I have always had this someday dream of riding a train and playing some music and I can’t believe that’s actually happening this Christmas. I’m so excited for the Holiday Train,” said Tenille Townes, one of eight headlining musi cians touring with the train. “I can’t wait to see so much of Canada from the snowy window view and meet up with our friends coming to the shows we are playing all along the way. And it’s all in support of the food bank and making sure people are fed and taken care of this holiday season.”

A full schedule, map, live train tracker, photos and artist information are available at cpr.ca/holidaytrain. Follow the train through CP’s Twitter, Facebook and Instagram channels @ CanadianPacific.

DID YOU HEAR ABOUT THE KID WHO DIDN’T LIKE BROKEN CANDY CANES? HE WOULDN’T TAKE THEM UNLESS THEY WERE IN MINT CONDITION!

RENO TIME

Home Repairs and Renovations

KEN EGAN

403- 852 -6956 renotime@shaw.ca

Government of Canada Announces National Funders

Shuswap Community Foundation

On November 22, the Minister of Families, Children, and Social Devel opment, Karina Gould, announced that Community Foundations of Canada alongside Canadian Red Cross, and United Way Centraide Canada have been selected to distribute funding to help a broad and diverse range of char ities, non-profits, and Indigenous Gov erning Bodies adapt and modernize, so they can support pandemic recovery in communities across Canada.

Shuswap Community Foundation will distribute the Community Services Recovery Fund to charities, non-profits, and Indigenous Governing Bodies.

The Community Services Recov ery Fund is a one-time investment of $400 million that will help charities, non-profits, and Indigenous Governing Bodies to acquire the tools they need to adapt and modernize so they can better support pandemic recovery in commu nities across Canada.

Since the early phases of the pan demic, charities, non-profits, and Indig enous Governing Bodies have strug gled with increased demand for their services, reduced revenues, declines in charitable giving due to the rising cost of living, and a greater need to make use of digital tools as part of adapting and modernizing their operations.

Funding from the Community Services Recovery Fund will enable charities, non-profits, and Indigenous Governing Bodies to invest in their own organizational capacity to adapt the way they deliver services to support the needs of their staff and volunteers; buy equipment such as computers and software; create new ways of working, such as developing new fundraising ap proaches; provide support for staff and volunteers, such as staff training, sup ports for mental health and well-being; and develop plans to receive funding from diverse sources.

(continued on page 23)

As a result of the investments provided by the Com munity Services Recovery Fund, charities, non-profits, and Indigenous Governing Bodies will be better equipped to improve the efficacy, accessibility, and sustainability of the community services that they provide.

“Charities and non-profits are at the forefront of addressing communities’ needs, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic. However, many of them are strug gling to recover and adapt their services to the changing needs of the Shuswap community. Through the Communi ty Services Recovery Fund, Shuswap Community Foun dation will be able to give organizations the support they need to serve our community.” -Roger Parenteau, Shuswap Community Foundation, Manager

The application process will launch on January 6, 2023. For more information visit www.communityser vicesrecoveryfund.ca.

‘TIS THE SEASON TO SHOP LOCAL

North Shuswap Fire Services

By Roy Phillips, Celista Fire Chief

After an unseasonably warm fall, win ter seems to have hit us without warning. We want to remind everyone to keep your chimneys clean and to use seasoned, dry firewood. Keep areas around the fireplace or stove clear of possible fuels such as papers, blankets, rugs, and firewood, be cause it just takes one spark! With the cold weather comes the use of space heaters. Power bars/strips aren’t built to handle the high current flow required by space heaters and when used may cause them to overheat and start a fire. Plug your space heater directly into the wall outlet.

In the last month the fire departments have responded to numerous calls from burn complaints, false alarms, assist to first responders and a structure fire. We train for all kinds of fires: brush fires, car fires, hydro fires, chimney fires and structure fires.

On November 17 at 8:30 pm, the pag ers went off for a structure fire in Celista. With structure fires we have all three departments respond to ensure we have enough water and manpower. Upon arrival at the residence, the structure was fully engulfed with propane tanks purging on

fire. With the assistance of Scotch Creek and Anglemont, we were able to quickly extinguish the fire. No one was injured in the fire.

As the snow falls make sure to keep your driveways accessible so that emer gency vehicles are able to reach you quickly. If you have a hydrant near your place keep it clear of snow. Clear a perim eter of three feet around the hydrant and a path to it. The time required for firefight ers to clear the snow when responding to a call, slows down our response time! The first minutes when arriving to a call are very crucial.

With Christmas approaching, remem ber to keep live Christmas trees watered, away from registers and heat sources. Check your Christmas lights prior to using them for any damage.

We have been working on our STSS accreditation for a few years, with a few bumps along the way. This fall, with the help of the Anglemont and Scotch Creek fire Departments, we have passed our shuttle accreditation. What does this mean for you the home owner/tax payer?

It means your fire protection rating has improved. Check with your insurance pro

vider and see if they can give you a better rate.

We would like to send a huge thank you to the North Shuswap Christian Fellowship, they invited all three fire departments and the first responders to an appreciation dinner. It was a great meal, and fun evening for us!

The Scotch Creek Fire Department will be at the Scotch Creek Market for a Food Bank Boot Drive on December 3 from 9am to 3pm. You can drop off cash or non-perishable food items for the Christmas Hampers.

Anglemont FD is running a food bank drive Dec 13 from 6pm to 8 pm. They will drive to houses in their fire protection area including St Ives, Anglemont, Lucerne Beach, Magna Bay, Eckerman and Lynd sey roads. Donations can also be dropped off at the fire hall until 9pm. Poster is in December Kicker.

We would like to wish everyone a very Merry Christmas! Hope to see ev eryone at the annual Christmas Parade on December 9th in Scotch Creek.

Please consider joining your local fire departments, it is a great way to help your community!

Our strength comes from having a wide range of perspectives, experiences, and talents focused toward a common goal. You will be provided with professional development, director networking, and remuneration, along with the opportunity to be innovative and strategic.

Is this your time to become a leader of this prominent regional organization?

North Shuswap Lions

By Ted Danyluk

Let’s hope hundreds upon hundreds of spectators line the parade route for this year’s Santa Parade happen ing on Friday, December 9. The parade starts from the corner of Imai and Squilax Anglemont Rd. at 5:30 pm, winding its way into downtown Scotch Creek. It is not a ru mor, but the absolute truth, Santa will be riding on the Lions float in the parade. After the parade, the jolly old elf will be available for pictures with kids young and old in the pho to hut located in the Scotch Creek Market parking lot. As well, barbequed hot dogs will also be served nearby.

There is still time to enter a float; get your neigh bours, your friends, even your family, put some lights and yard ornaments on the pick up, ATV or UTV and be a part of the fun. Contact Deb from the Chamber of Commerce at 250-804-8097 to make sure you are registered. Shaping up to be a great evening, so don’t miss out.

On December 11 from 1:30-3:00 pm, the Lions Club hosts the Annual Children’s Christmas Party at the North Shuswap Community Hall in Celista. In addition to the Kicker handing out prizes for their Christmas Colouring Contest, the Lions will have the ever popular “Fish Pond”, Face Painting as well as free snacks including hot dogs, hot chocolate & cookies. Santa will be there to hear each child’s wish list and have pictures taken with him. In

addition, adults will be able to buy draw tickets for “gi-nor mous” gift baskets containing awesome donated items.

Any family, regardless of your income, that has kids taking part in activities outside of the area can get help with transportation costs from the North Shuswap Lions. This includes school based or outside of school, extra-cur ricular activities, in arts, athletic or cultural activities, our Club might be able to help pay transportation costs with a GTI /PetroCan Gas Card. Activities may be hockey, skiing, piano lessons, painting, gymnastics, sing ing, Scouts or Girl Guides, wrestling, figure skating, to name only a few. For all the details go to our website https://e-clubhouse.org/sites/ northshuswap/ and open the link titled Lions Community Youth Fund Financial Assis tance.

Congratulations to Kane O’Brien and Annie Murphy for being voted into the North Shuswap Lions Club. If you would like to join Annie and Kane in becoming a member of the Lions, give our Mem bership person Ron Buffel a call at 250-955-0585 or President Ellen Little at 250955-0690.

Check it out, Santa is a regular at the Lions weekly Meat & 50/50 Draw held each Saturday at The Hub from 3:00-5:00 p.m. Christmas turkeys and hams will be given away on December 17, our last day before Christmas. Our first draw date in the New Year will be January 7.

North Shuswap Fire Services

• Anglemont Fire Department Chief: Graham Lucas, 250955-2212 anglemontVFD@csrd.bc.ca

• Celista Fire Department Chief: Roy Phillips, 250-8043349 celistaVFD@csrd.bc.ca

• Scotch Creek/Lee Creek Fire Department Chief: Ben Pellet, 250-955-2422 ScotchCreekVFD@csrd.bc.ca

Sppeeciiaaliizziinng g in n

ViSiT ESSiESPLACE.ORG FOR MORE iNFORMATiON

ESSiE'S PLACE iS NOW OFFERiNG AN AFFiRMiNG THERAPY PiLOT PROGRAM FOR LGBTQIA2S+ iDENTiFiED PEOPLE iN THE SHUSWAP

SD83 School Trustee –Area 3

By Corryn Grayston

The first regular meeting of the newly elected Board took place on November 15 at the District Education Support Centre. These meetings are hosted both in person as well as streamed online so I invite all our community members to participate in whatever format best suits them. That being said, I recognize it’s not always possible to schedule these meet ings into everyone’s busy calendars, so I’ll share some of the highlights.

I’m excited to share that we are about to embark on a new 5 Year Strategic Plan for our District. Superintendent Donna Kriger provided us with the framework, details and flowchart for this important and extensive project. The flowchart can be viewed in the November 15, 2022 Board Agenda items.

An extremely important part of this process is your feed back and vision for our district. With that in mind, the imple mentation schedule for December will be to collect data from our parents, caregivers, students, as well as all the other “voic es” in our district and community. The tool to collect this data will be a digital survey and I strongly encourage participation from as many of our community members as possible. Once the survey is ready for distribution, we will work diligently to share where and how you can participate and provide feedback.

Another important item to share is the K-12 Student Reporting Policy Framework. This new framework is still under development by the Ministry of Education and will come into effect in September 2023. SD83 has already incorporated certain components of this new reporting structure, however, changes will still need to be made to become fully aligned with the new reporting system. The Ministry intends to provide additional support resources for staff and parents/caregivers in advance of the new framework. More details can be found at SD83 website.

Chair appointments were also determined for the follow ing committees: Education Directions (VanBuskirk); Finance & Facilities (Krebs); Labour Relations (Gennings); Policy (Lachmuth); Partner Group (VanBuskirk); Budget (Grayston); Transportation (Gennings); First Nations Education Council (Lachmuth) and French Advisory (VanBuskirk). These Com mittees generally meet monthly and Trustees report on agenda items and determinations at the Regular Board meeting.

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

Families Need Sound Federal Fiscal Policies

By MP Mel Arnold

In August 2021, Prime Minister Trudeau was asked if he would direct the Bank of Canada to deploy federal monetary measures to fight inflation that had hit a 20-year high. In response, he smugly declared “you’ll forgive me if I don’t think about monetary policy. You’ll understand that I think about families.” Sub sequent spikes in inflation and financial pain for Canadians have proven how dangerously irresponsible Trudeau’s atti tude really was and is.

In his response, the Prime Minister used the words that he did because he wanted Canadians to think that the federal government must choose between monetary policies and families. How ever, the reality is that federal monetary policies impact the very Canadian families that are now paying for the PM’s willful ignorance and failures. Canadians know now, as they knew then, that it is they or future generations who must pay for every percent of interest on a mortgage, every increase of groceries and gas, and every cent spent by Trudeau’s government.

Thanks to the Prime Minister’s failure to support families through sound fiscal or monetary policies, pay cheques don’t go as far as they used to. Canadians are cutting their diets and moth ers are putting water in their children’s milk because they cannot afford 10% food infla tion. Winter has arrived and seniors on fixed incomes are struggling to heat their homes.

On November 3, the Trudeau government intro duced its Fall Economic Statement that once again failed to address Canada’s cost-of-living crisis created

by out-of-control government spending. Conservative leader Pierre Poilievre wrote the PM ahead of the economic statement and presented two conditions for Conservative support of the statement. The first condition was no new taxes and cancelation of all planned tax hikes including the tripling of the carbon tax. The second condition was no new spending that was not first matched with an equiva lent saving. Neither of these conditions were delivered in the economic statement.

When faced with an opportunity to enact policies to fight inflation, the Liberals looked the other way and now the Bank of Canada has signaled that interest rates will rise even higher to cool infla tion resulting in many Cana dians not being able to afford their mortgages, feed their families or heat their homes. While many Canadians can’t pay this month’s rent, the PM spent $6000 dollars a night on the most expensive hotel room in London.

Instead of creating more cash, Conservatives believe in creating more of what cash buys- more homes, more food, and more resources here at home. We are also pressing for reforms of Canada’s fed eral tax and benefit systems to ensure that whenever some body works an extra hour or takes an extra shift, they will be better off and will keep more control of the benefits of their hard work.

As the federal represen tative for the North Okana gan-Shuswap, I continue to work with my Conservative colleagues to press the government to enact policies to fight inflation and restore stability and security for Canadians.

MEL ARNOLD MEMBER OF PARLIAMENT

MERRY CHRISTMAS

Greetings for the season with hopes for a happy holiday!

Foot Care Nurse / Call: 250-574-9969 to book

Lab - Blood Collection, ECGsWed & Fri - 8am to 12noon

Public Health/Baby Wellness Clinics - last Tuesday of the month Call: 250-679-1393 to book

North Shuswap Health Centre Our Year in Review

Gail McNeil Oliver, NSHC Executive Director

Hard to believe that we are wrapping up our year! It has been an extremely busy year for the health center, and we have added new services for the community to utilize such as our Community Health Worker and our new Licensed Practical Nurse. We were able to add these vital services to our Community Health Care Center due to a grant received from the BC Association of Community Health Care Centres.

Bringing on an LPN has been most beneficial for several reasons and certainly beneficial for our doctors working remotely as Kay tlyn, our new LPN, can be their eyes and ears. Kaytlyn can also assist the doctors with several things such as blood pressure checks and providing patient updates to the doctors for patient care plan follow ups. The LPN is

a great clin ic resource to have for our community and assists while we transi tion with our doctors, espe cially with Dr. Bucarelli and her family having to relocate to Kelowna.

We were extremely sad to see Dr. Bucarelli leave, but we have been lucky that she has continued to do some re mote work with patients and Dr. Mistry is also working re motely with us. I am hopeful that the recruitment process for our new physician will soon be finalized, and it will be back to business as usual! Changes in health care delivery due to the pandemic means that much of primary health care delivery will con tinue to be virtual and phone based. But to have our new physician in clinic to assess patients in person and com plete various procedures as needed remains our ultimate goal.

Christmas is the Season of…

Jodi Wium, NSHC Community Health Worker

Here we go, Christmas 2022. What does that bring for you? For many of us there has been a sense of normalcy after Covid restrictions have been lifted and Christmas can resume as usual.

However, there are many of us who are having our first Christmas without someone we love. For our family, we have lost a close family member to brain cancer. Although we will go about the festivities as always, things will be different.

There is also the struggle with the season for many other reasons. Family conflict can run high during the season, fi nances and responsibilities are stretched once again. Especially in the North Shuswap, one can become shut in, isolated and depression can become a “thing.”

One of the ways we can counter the downs of December is to be proactive about one’s mental health. Changing sleep and health habits over the winter might be something to consider. Putting less, not more pressure on oneself, is a great start. Another seasonal issue is not having enough light (even too much light can trigger this same condition) and can prompt a mental health disorder known as “S.A.D” or Seasonal Affec tive Disorder.

To determine depression symptoms or symptoms associ ated with Seasonal Affective Disorder, check out this website: https://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/topics/seasonal-affective-dis order/index.shtml

A L L I E D H E A L T H S E R V I C E S

Jasmine Zilkie Registered Massage Therapist Donna Peters Massage Practitioner Jodi Wium Registered Clinical Counsellor

There are also some very simple ways to test out what you rate on the depression scale like the PHQ-9 test. It is available online, but often is done through a health professional, doctor or even a therapist/psychologist/counsellor.

During the month of December, we have two upcoming support groups being held at the North Shuswap Seniors & Community Resource Centre. On December 27 from 10-12, the Commu nity Health Worker and a special guest will review some of the issues from Elder Abuse explored in last month’s paper and on Dec 29, I will be hosting three depres sion groups, 10-12, 1-3 and 3-5. We will complete the PHQ-9 assessment at each session, and introduce interested partici pants to the BOUNCE BACK program, which is an online program you can work through for mild to moderate depression. Go to: https://bouncebackbc.ca/ if you would like to check out this program.

After our group meeting, most coaching can be done online, on the phone or in person. The online com ponent will last 6 –8 weeks starting in January and there is room for eighteen participants.

Please email me at: community healthworker.nshc@gmail.com to enroll and I also encourage you to call for a mental health check in, some support for yourself or your family, and/or book an appointment. The community health worker is available for appointments Monday to Thursday from 5-9, online, by phone and in person. I can be reached by phone, or messages can be left for me at: 1-236-586-4398

The holidays can be a wonderful time of year and can also be a tough time of year. If you or someone you care about is dealing with grief & loss, check out this refreshing & interesting video on “Grief and the holidays” by Grief Counsellor, David Kessler at: http://www. holidaygrief.com

North Shuswap Seniors’ Corner

Schedule of Events for December at the NS Seniors & Community Resource Centre

Tuesdays & Thursdays,10 am – 12 pm

Tuesdays:

Dec. 6: Your Story matters

Dec. 13: Refreshments and Friendship

Dec. 20: Refreshments and Friendship

Dec. 27: Jodi Wium- workshop on Elder Abuse

Thursdays:

Dec. 8: Refreshments and Friendship

Dec. 15: Ellie -Christmas flower arrang ing

Dec. 22: Christmas lunch / sharing traditions $5.00

Dec. 29: Jodi- workshop on Depression *Closed and re-opening Tuesday

January 10th for Refreshments and Friendship Please contact Lorna Joy with any questions and to register: 780-721-2293 or Lornajoyp@gmail.com

First Responders

911...What Is Your Emergency?

Submitted by Karen Boulter

With winter producing lots of those lovely white flakes, shoveling snow to clear walkways and driveways can be a daily event. It is very hard work and can put severe stress on your heart as well as stress and strain on your back and shoulders, knees and groin. These stresses are a very common cause of low back strains and verte bral disc damage. The following are a few tips to help you keep healthy when shoveling snow:

1. If you experience pain of any kind, stop and seek as sistance. Your body is more important than clearing the walkway. There is always someone willing to help. Ask.

2. Be sure your muscles are warm before you start shov eling. Cold, tight muscles are more likely to strain than warm relaxed muscles.

3. Use a shovel that is the correct size for you.

4. Push the snow, rather than lifting, whenever possible.

5. If you must lift, squat with your legs apart, knees bent, belly pulled in, and back straight. Lift with your legs. Do not bend at the waist.

6. Grip the shovel with at least 35 cm (13 inches) between your hands. This distance increases your leverage and reduces strain on your body.

7. Remember that snow can be very heavy. Never remove deep snow all at once. Take an inch or two off. Rest

and repeat. Pace yourself by taking breaks to gently stretch your back, arms and legs.

8. Use a smaller shovel scoop. It might require additional trips, but the weight will be more manageable. Take the time. It will be worth it in the end.

Finally, for those of us who are able bodied, it is always worth remem bering neighbours nearby who might not be able to, or who shouldn’t be, removing snow from their driveways or walkways on their own. A few minutes of help can make the world a safer place.

Together “We Make a Difference.”

If you would like to order your green and white reflective address sign, they are only $40 and certainly priceless when a loved one needs help. Signs can be printed vertically or horizon tally with your house numbers, so please take a moment to decide where you will mount your address sign, and which orientation will be best for you. You may send a message to NSFRinfo@gmail.com or call Margaret at 604-217-1638 to place an order. We look forward to hearing from you today.

If you would like to find out more about becoming a First Responder, please contact Kath at 250-318-0317. For more information about becom ing a Dispatcher, please contact Judy at 778-207-2088.

Farrell’s Field Ice Rink Opening When Weather Allows

By Jo Anne Malpass

Work is underway to get the Columbia Shuswap Re gional District’s four outdoor skating rinks ready for out door recreation this season. This includes Farrell’s Field at 5051 Meadow Creek Road, Celista.

Tracy Hughes, CSRD Communications Coordi nator explained making ice must wait until temperatures reach a level of -7 degrees or lower for at least 10 days. A sustained period of cold is needed before ice rinks can be built and maintained according to rink safety standards.

During the winter, Farrell’s Field (also known as the Celista Ice Rink) is a popular 17,000 square foot outdoor ice rink funded by the CSRD. The rink has a heated skate shack, flood lights for night skating and a sound system for music. Goal nets are available for hockey games. Operating hours, once it is open are from 7:00 am to 10:00 pm. Regular main tenance on rinks generally takes place between 7:00 and 10:00 am, so skating may be temporarily interrupted

during those times.

The ability to open the outdoor rinks is entirely weather dependent. Parks contractors are working on preparing the rink areas and will get the rinks open safely as soon as conditions allow, said a CSRD release. As con ditions differ widely across the region, it is difficult to predict an opening day for each rink. Generally, outdoor ice rinks in the CSRD open in early to mid-December. Tracy Hughes added that con tractors watch the long-range forecast to ensure conditions will remain adequate to maintain the ice long enough to make it worthwhile.

Bruce Excavating of Scotch Creek was awarded the contract this year to oper ate Farrell’s Field Ice rink.

The Kicker would like to thank Brian and Karen Ruddock for taking such good care of the ice rink for the past dozen or so years. The community appreciates all your hard work.

For updates on rink openings, check the CSRD Outdoor Ice Rinks page on its website, Facebook, Twitter or Instagram pages.

Skmana Ski and Snowshoe Season Registration Open

By Jo Anne Malpass

With winter upon us, Ski Skmana ski and snowshoe club is looking forward to seeing you on the trails when the snow flies.

Skmana offers 18 kms of track set classic ski trails and a generous offering of designated snowshoe trails on a va riety of terrain which includes lake trails, moderate inclines on closely treed trails as well as a challenging 4 km push into heavy powder snow. “Users often rave about the secluded and relaxing feeling they experience on our trials. A cozy and warm hut awaits you with expansive and of ten sunny views. There are very few clubs with trails that provide the scenery found at Skmana. Check it out,” says the website.

Families, social groups and individual skiers and snow shoers will all find the trails very user friendly.

The website during the season includes a snow report

(continued on page 33)

Photo shared from Ski Skmana Facebook

so you can plan for conditions and the club is planning to hold an open house later in the season.

Skmana Ski and Snowshoe Club is excited to announce that registration is now open for Jackrabbits (6 - 9-yearolds). Coaching will happen on Satur days from 2 - 3 PM this year and with an adult + a child membership + $25 Rabbits Registration, there is access to no-cost equipment for the season (size permitting).

NEW DIRECTORS NEEDED -

The Skmana Ski & Snowshoe Board of Directors is looking to fill 2 or 3 Director positions. “Filling a director position allows you to have a say in what does or does not happen with our Club going forward. It allows you to share ideas and be involved in activities within our Club other than the Ski or Snowshoe outings. It will require at tending no more than 2 meetings a year and helping with specific tasks such as fund raising, membership drives, trail upgrades, increasing community involvement and awareness of what our Club offers. Please contact Bill McPherson at 604-626-3443 for more information.”

Harry Benns Folk Art

By Sionna McTavish

During an interview with local artist Jackie Wambolt about her paintings featured in the Celista Estate Winery Fine Art Show this past August, Jackie spoke of her late father Harry Benns and the exten sive collection of his “beau tiful” painted wood carvings she had – many still adorned with Jurors’ Choice Award ribbons. Upon seeing the carved scenes, it was evident why Harry’s work was very popular and won first place time and again.

Memories built by Harry’s large hands are those of someone who has worked long hours and days before dawn on a farm. Tools specific to the task at hand in each carved scene, and equip ment that would have passed over his palms many times, is re-created with as much attention and care as the other components in every diorama: living and non-living, all play an important role or provide a function in Harry’s Folk Art narratives.

Harry would spend the first 8 years of his life in Toronto after he was born in 1905, until his father moved the family to a farm in rural Ontario – the source of many fond memories depicted in his artwork, explained Jackie. Later in life, Harry would go on to carve such scenes as gathering wood, and getting ice blocks to prepare for storage in straw. In another, a horse is being shod – an anvil

rests nearby.

Although, it wasn’t until the Christmas of 1967 in Calgary, that Harry began bringing his memories into

Harry relaxing in front of his log cabin in Celista

this three dimensional Folk Art form. The “first horse harness he ever built was from an old leather boot”, a gift for Jackie that she continues to cherish. A Breyer ornamental horse Harry bought was fitted with the harness and saddle; thereafter, he built a blue wag on for the horse to pull, and his designs for wagons and cutters became increasingly complex and detailed.

While still in Calgary, Harry was asked by a gen tleman named Doc to build a miniature replica of an Olympic horse show jump ing course he was setting up in New York City. Harry’s wood working hobby/career was definitely underway and would continue to be a pastime he loved for the rest

(continued on page 35)

of his life.

The next harness and saddle Harry made Jackie for Christmas in 1969, was completed with a Breyer horse pulling a cutter (one horse sleigh).

In 1981, several years after Harry had moved to the North Shuswap, a published author and art instructor visited the Benns’ fami ly home. She saw Harry’s harness es and thought he should start carving the horses rather than using the Breyer ornamental ones. An idea that Harry developed very suc cessfully. The art instructor’s suggestions were instrumental in prompting him to begin carving and painting both people and horses – each one having a distinct character – and initiating his Folk Art show displayed at the Fort Steele living museum that year.

Simultaneously rugged and refined, the human and animal figures Harry has carved are rarely idle unless sitting to ride in a carriage or wagon. Even then, horses are in mid-stride, and reins are held in such a way that re-direction might happen in the next moment. Chickens in the yard lean over about to peck another morsel off the ground, Jackie’s dog Coke – a springer spaniel, collie cross – is only stationary to survey the situation, on alert for the next adventure.

Harry went on to carve scenes inspired by his other life experiences and photographs or concepts he was intrigued by. Such as, an Arctic dog sled team, and First Nations Village he saw during a trip south with Jackie to Sun dance, Wyoming, where his uncle Bill had once lived after marrying a rancher’s daughter.

Many of Harry’s carvings were done after he retired and moved with Jackie, her husband, and three children in 1974 from Burns Lake to the North Shuswap. The family purchased a property on Line 17, and cleared the land so that their homes could be built. Harry’s was constructed using logs from a forest fire

on Crowfoot Mountain. He lived and carved in his log home until 1998, when he passed away at the age of 92.

The materials Harry used to carve and construct the scenes were often ordinary and readily available in most workshops. Jackie said he didn’t use any special type of wood, fire wood would do. Harry’s primary carving tool was a pocket knife, and paint in small cans was from the hardware store. The countless small components including wagon wheel axels, and door hinges that move, are all fashioned from whatever he had handy.

Harry’s artwork resonates with inventiveness, and bespeaks his inner strength and sensitivity, creativity as a storyteller and historian, and his ability to see the forest and the trees.

The following excerpt from a book about Harry that his granddaugh ter Rhonda compiled and edited, best describes his remark able painted wood carvings and scenes:

“Harry Benns was truly a selftaught Folk Artist. Through his craft, he left an enduring visual legacy of his life, and the gener ation that preceded him. He created his detailed models in the same honest, and quietly industrious manner that he lived his life.”

(PhotosbyKickerstaffandfrombookofHarry’swork.)

A day with the blacksmith

Kickin’ Tech News Hi Tech Christmas Ideas

By John Seymour

Christmas is coming and as usual we find ourselves short on one or two gift ideas. Not to worry though as there are plenty of useful and/or fun high-tech gifts out there that would please almost everyone young or old.

Let’s start with voice assistants. Google Nest and Ama zon Echo are currently the most popular voice assistants on the market. Both have a few models at different price points with the Google Nest Mini and the Amazon Echo Dot at the low end at less than $50. If you’re not familiar with voice assistants, they are tiny computers that connect to the Inter net and have the ability to respond to your voice commands. Not only fun to use but they are also powerful Smart Home controllers capable of controlling the majority of your Smart Home devices such as smart lights, switches and plugs.

Speaking of which - smart lights, switches and plugs also make great and affordable gifts. They allow you to con trol lights and electrical devices around your home from an App on your phone. You can put them on a simple schedule or add them to a voice assistant routine. For example, in my house when I wake up, I say ‘Good Morning’ to my Google Mini and it tells me the time, the weather, turns on the radio, a few lights and starts my coffee. Nice!

Another great gift idea is a Bluetooth speaker. There are a lot of different brands and prices out there, but you’ll

(continued on page 37)

not want to cheap out on this gift. It’s a speaker so sound quality is important. You can’t go wrong with Bose or Sonos but you’ll want to check reviews on anything else.

How about wireless earbuds? Again, lots of choices and price points but expect to pay a little more for this gift. Bose, Sony and Apple are generally safe bets but there are many other good alternatives. Check the reviews once again before buying.

Another high-tech de vice that’s gaining traction is the Smart watch. Essentially a computer for your wrist, each model has different features making this a somewhat difficult gift to give someone but at the end of the day, they do still tell

time.

More gifts to consider are smart doorbells, smart locks and wireless camer as. Big names here include Google, Eufy, Ring and several others depending on the device type. These gifts are great choices and allow the homeowner to monitor aspects of their home when they are away. Other useful hi-tech gifts include portable phone chargers and wireless chargers. Anyone with a smartphone would appreci ate either one.

Hopefully something on this list will help you finish your Christmas list.

Have a great Christmas everyone!

(250) 804-8740

johnseymour@Lakesidetech.ca www.lakesidetech.ca

Moving to Engel Volkers

The decision to move

was a deliberate strategy to

with a

Our

asked for a higher level of

office in Kamloops

that image of contemporary sophistication. The “Shuswap Style ‘’ will be embraced by our colleagues and we are honored to work alongside them.

Jessica and Lynn

Shuswap Specialist

Shuswap Specialist

Christmas Bird Count

By Claudette Carlsen

Once again, we will be having our Annual Christmas Bird Count in the North Shuswap and surrounding area on Friday, December 16 and we ask all who are feeding the birds if you would try to count them and then give me a call at 250-679-8148.

Once again, our area comprises Magna Bay to the Adams River bridge, Sorrento to White Lake including Blind Bay and areas around there.

We will have people out counting in these areas, but we really appreciate the calls from people who are

feeding the birds as we don’t always know who you are. And I was so thankful for those who phoned me last year.

Jack and I will do our area – Magna Bay to Celista and all the area above the main road. Our highlight is lunch at the Magna Bay store - thank you to the Isleys. I hope the weather will co-operate and give us a nice day.

Once again, the count will be tallied in our house in Chase BC and anyone who wishes to come and learn about this Count is welcome. The Swan and Eagle count will be on January 15, 2023. So happy Birding.

LAKEVIEW COMMUNITY CENTRE SOCIETY

ANGLEMONT AND SURROUNDING AREA

By Denise Meier

December is here and Christmas is fast approaching. We hope you all were able to support our local vendors by purchasing some Christmas gifts at our Craft Fair. Thank you to all the members who provided baking for the bake sale table, and the vendors who helped make the event a success.

Thank you to all the members who showed up to help decorate the hall for the season. It looks very festive.

We held our first half of the AGM on November 15, and we now have a new board in place for the upcoming year. This includes: Jim Dingeldein as President, Tony Hudson as Past President, Darla Dingeldein as Treasur er, Marge Mayer as Secretary, Jim Leduc as Maintenance Man, Shauna Scott as Events Coordinator, Bob Ewert as Membership Coordinator, Bud Hackett as Landscape Main tenance, and Denise Meier and Jeff Ratcliff as Directors at Large. We are excited to have so many board members and new energy going forward.

There will be no breakfast at the Centre in December, however, mark your calendars for Saturday, December 17. The Centre will be hosting a Free Potluck Christmas Dinner for members and their guests. We will provide the turkey, potatoes, and gravy, and each family needs to bring either a vegetable dish, salad, stuffing, or desert. This will be a Bring Your Own beverages, plates and cutlery event. Come join us for an evening of good food, good neighbours, and Christmas Cheer. Treats will be provided for the kiddos.

Stay tuned for announcements for the New Year that will include pickleball - something to look forward to!!

If you have not been a member of the Lakeview Centre previously, you could sign up now for next year. If you are new to the area, we encourage you to check our website to see what we have to offer that may interest you. Member ships are one of the few ways we have of bringing in funds to keep the building up and running. You can find our membership form on our webpage at https://www.lakev iewcommunitycentresociety.com/. Financial contributions can also be made and tax receipts can be issued. We prefer payments are made online via e-transfer to the Lakeview e-mail address: lakeviewcommunitycentre@gmail. com . Any other inquiries should be directed to Tony Hudson778-765-1506. If you have ideas for new activi ties, clubs or events, or would like us to do something that we used to do, please let us know. Thanks to our members, supporters and most importantly, our volunteers.

Lakeview Centre Membership fees: $20/yr (per person)

7703 Squilax Anglemont Rd Anglemont, BC V0E 1M8

Hall Bookings/Games Room: Tony 778-765-1506

Email: lakeviewcommunitycentre@gmail.com

Web: www.lakviewcommunitycentresociety.com

ED’S RENOVATIONS

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

By Jan Penner

This month’s item goes by many names including boomer, level load binder, cinch and chain binder. Congratulations to our draw prize winner Cody Mitchell who claims the $25 prize. For simplic ity’s sake, I will be using the term binder.

A binder is actually a very sim ple device. When this item was in use, one end of a length of chain was attached to one hook and the chain was tossed over and around a loaded trailer of some sort. Then, the other end of the chain was attached to the other hook and the lever was used to tighten the chain and snug it in place, thus securing the load. Any teamster worth his salt was wear ing gloves and paid very close attention to what he was doing because there was a tendency for the lever to flip back up if the chain was a bit too tight! Care also had to be taken to make sure that the chain was tight enough because too much slack could result in the entire load coming loose.

NAME THAT THING DECEMBER 2022

In the days of horse drawn vehicles, I assume that this tool would have been used for the transportation of logs, lumber, possibly pipe or crated goods; any thing that was stacked and needed to be secured. As far as I can tell, this particular style of binder would have been used to secure a light to moder ate weight load. For heavier loads, the hooks would have been larger to accom modate a heavier chain and possibly a ratchet binder.

I think it is important to point out that binders are still very much in use today. There have been some changes to materials used in their construc tion and style, but to all intents and purposes, this is a tool that has stood the test of time.

Email: kicker@kicker.ca call/text 250-515-2830

Or drop answer in one of our drop boxes at Scotch Creek Market or Ross Creek Store in Magna Bay. - HINT: 3.5 feet tall Entry Deadline: Dec 18

Do you own waterfront property on Shuswap or surrounding lakes? Stay informed with SWOA

When I first saw this item in the Chase and District Museum and Archives, I mis-identified it as some type of come-along. One of the guesses we received was that the item is a wire fence puller. While there are similarities, best as I can tell, there is a difference between these and a binder. However, I would like to point out that necessity often re quires one tool to substitute for another. For anyone who has seen a binder used for something else, I want to acknowledge that your guess is not wrong as such, just that it is possibly not quite right. On that note, I need to tighten a screw on my chair…where did that butter knife get to?!

Here is our item for next month. Get your guess in by the deadline and you could be the next $25 draw prize winner. Thanks to the Chase and District Museum and Archives for sharing this item with us.

Chase Country Christmas

By Jo Anne Malpass

Everyone is welcome to come enjoy the fun at Chase Country Christmas, starting on Friday December 2 at 4:00 pm with street vendors and in-store specials, Museum kid’s only Christmas store in the Nation wide Building and Young Learners kids’ store at Tru Value.

The parade from the arena to PharmaChoice starts at 5:30 pm, followed by a tree light up, music, street hockey, Lion’s Club fire in Pocket Park with smores and

hayrides by donation.

Saturday will start with a pancake breakfast, 8:00 am to 11:00 am at the Chase Curling Rink. Starting at 10 am, there will be free pictures and story time with Santa and Mrs. Claus at the Tru Value Building, craft and vendor fair at the community hall and more kids’ shopping.

The day finishes off with crafts for the kids, a free skate at the arena, cupcake decorating and an old fash ion cake walk.

MERRY CHRISTMAS

Shuswap Music Festival Registration Open

Shuswap Music Festival Society

The Board of Directors and the Rotary Clubs in Salm on Arm are pleased to host the Shuswap Music Festival from April 11 to April 29, 2023.

The Music Festival in Salmon Arm offers adjudicated sessions in piano, strings, voice, choral and band.

Registration for the 2023 festival runs from December 1, 2022 to January 31, 2023 and is open to residents of the Shuswap as well as the BC Southern Interior. Register on line at www.ShuswapFestival.com. Check the website for an introduction to the adjudicators and more information about the annual festival.

The purpose of the Shuswap Music Festival is to encourage, support, challenge and celebrate music students and amateur musicians by providing opportunities for learning and performing on the road to musical excellence.

In addition, the Festival provides the opportunity for constructive and professional evaluations of musical per formances.

The Festival is produced by a not-for-profit society managed by a volunteer board of directors.

Merry Christmas!

North Shuswap Automotive is now permanently closed. We would like to take this opportunity to thank you all for your support and wish you all the very best holiday season.

Ryan and Karla Bragg

Chase Legion BR # 107 would like to thank all who attended, participated and contributed to this year’s Poppy Campaign & Remem brance Day Ceremony, on Friday, 11th November 2022, in the Chase Community Hall.

The question has been asked if this money goes to the Legion. The answer is NO. The money raised in our area, that is Pritchard, Chase, North Shuswap & Sorrento / Blind Bay, is held in trust, in a separate account from Le gion accounts, to support veterans in BC.

The keepers of the poppy trust fund are John Angus – Poppy Chair man, Past President Branch 107 - Paul Lamoureaux, Dave Smith – Branch Vice President 107

JohnH.Angus,Poppy/ RemembranceDayChairman, ChaseLegionBR#107

Why was the snowman embarrassed at the grocery store? He got caught picking his nose!

North Shuswap Community Association

December already! Where did 2022 go?

The North Shuswap Community Association was thrilled to present prizes to some kids with outstanding costumes at the Fun Center’s Kids Halloween Party. 34 kids entered the costume contest and our 4 deserving winners were:

1. Sophie Patterson, age 8 - $100 Prize

2. George ‘unknown’, age 6 – Prize Un claimed – if anyone knows George or how to get in touch with him, we have a prize of $50.00 and a candy bag we would love to get to him!

3. Khali Bomford, age 10 - $100 Prize

tions, Marilyn! Be sure to make your way to the North Shuswap Community Hall on Mondays for your chance to win some money, play some bingo and have a fun evening out!

The NSCA would like to extend a huge thank-you to Bob Kendall, The Dock Doctor, for all his work with the NSCA’s docks – he always does such an incredible job. Thanks, Bob!

Marilyn White (left) with Loretta Greenough won $1000 at the October 24th BINGO night.

4. Jocelyn Cyr, age 11 - $50.00 and a candy bag Congratulations, kids! Your costumes were fantastic!

Also, great BINGO news! Marilyn White, pictured with Loretta Greenough, NSCA Vice President, won $1000 at the October 24 BINGO night! Congratula

Make sure to make your way to the Christmas Parade on December 9 at 5:30 pm in Scotch Creek–a little birdie told me that the NSCA float will have some candy….

A reminder that memberships are $10 per individual or $20 per family, consider joining the NSCA and being a part of a great community association. We are happy to accept cash, cheque or e-transfer to NSCommAssoc@gmail.com.

Happy Holidays.

North Shuswap Community Hall 5456 Squilax Anglemont Rd. Celista, BC, V0E 1M6 Hall Bookings: Debbie - email: deb.mack65@gmail.com or call 403-625-0191. info@northshuswapcommunityhall.ca www.northshuswapcommunityhall.ca Membership fees: $20/family, $10/individual

Fun Center’s Kids Halloween Contest

By Karla Bragg

Jocelyn Cyr, age 11

Khali Bomford, age 10

George (unknown)- age 6

Sophie Patterson, age 8

Thrift Store Winds Up Another Year

By Kathleen Lucas

The North Shuswap Community embraced The Thrift Store at St. David’s with so much enthusiasm. We opened at 10:00 each Wednesday and during the busy summer weeks we would have line ups to browse and buy.

Laughter, friendship, catching up on news, or just coming to look and to get all the best deals, were enjoyed by all. The expression “One person’s cast off are another’s TREASURES” was so true. Sometimes we receive items that we have no idea of their use. Our visitors always can help us figure it out.

Through the dedication of our small band of volunteers we were able to make sizable donations to the North Shuswap Food Bank, North Shuswap Elementary Lunch Program, Kicker Colouring Contest, Chase and Area Food Bank, Chase Victim Services (which serves the North Shuswap), North Shuswap Better At Home Services, Salmon Arm Safe House for Women and Children, Turtle Valley Donkey Rescue ( in remembrance of two founding members), and the Indigenous Language Program in Chase.

The Thrift Store at St. David’s is in need of NEW VOL UNTEERS to enable us to continue serving such a vital service in the area. We are a very flexible, diverse group, and although we are located at St. David’s church our Thrift store is a sepa rate entity. We are a Thrift store that serves our community.

If you would like to be part of our dedicated group, for a short time or a season please contact Jane Sinclair at 403 801 3861

Thank you and see you near the end of April, 2023.

Chase and District Fish and Game

By Secretary Helen Dalin

Chase

and District

Fish and Game wants to send out the biggest thank you to citizens of Chase and sur rounding communities in our District. Our club feels very privileged to have such support. Our Big Fall 50 50 and Silent Auction was a great fundrais ing success because of the generosity and encouragement of this community.

Not only were we given some amazing silent auction items, and strong support for our 50 50 tickets, we were blown away with the amount of donations that people made to our club. The club feels valued, and it helps the volunteers keep up incentive to improve and carry on with projects to maintain our wonder ful facilities for future generations. We do have some great facil ities that many people just don’t seem to know about and have never seen. Our 50 50 winner, Kevin Kelly, received his cheque from our president Ralph Bischoff at our November meeting.

The CDFGC range is across from the Buffalo range at 724 Turtle Valley Road. If you turn a sharp left there and follow the signs you will drive uphill to find a locked gate. Of course you can’t enter unless you are CDFGC member and have taken an orientation on the rules and regulations, or unless a member brings you up as a guest and orientates the guest on the rules and safe use of the range.

On our range we have a Clubhouse that has a kitchen that can feed a group and a large outside deck. We have one running water toilet at the clubhouse (used in summer) and 3 brand new vault toilets

that are spread out across the range for members. We have a 60 yard archery range for archery practice that mem bers can use anytime except when Trap or Skeet practice is on. We have a Trap field and a Skeet field with throwers for shotguns. The club’s electric throwers are only avail able under supervision, but any member can bring their own throwers and use the fields. We have a 100 yd rifle range and rifle house and a 25 yd pistol range and shed. We have 2 horse shoe pits and a forested section with trails that is perfect for setting up 3-D archery targets in the trees and creeks. We have free dry camp ing for families who come to the range to partici pate in weekend activities such as our annual 3-D shoot. Many other clubs consider our facilities as one of the nicest to attend. Ev eryone should see what the Fish and Game has to offer our community at least once. Membership are coming due at the end of December. You can get a mem bership at Village U-Brew or you can download a membership form off our website at cdfgc.ca on December first for 2023. Locks to the gates will be changed Jan 1st. It costs $5 for the key, which you can’t get until you take a one-time range orientation. Our club meets the 3rd Monday of the month at 7 pm at Creekside Senior Center. We do not meet in July and August. We hope to see our club continue to grow. We have had steady growth these last few years which helps keep our club healthy.

CDFGC - 50 50 winner, Kevin Kelly (left) receiving cheque from president Ralph Bischoff at November meeting

Road building — land/Lot clearing

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR

Seymour Arm Community Wharf

Many people outside of our community may not be aware that the community wharf in Seymour Arm was closed last month due to the structure being unsafe.

Some of our residents met with CSRD Area F Director Jay Simpson in 2019 to look at what needs to be done and what the costs will be. An Engineers Report and financial quote was provided at that time and, since then, no communication has been forthcoming and the wharf had to be closed.

As First Responders, we can tell you first hand that the wharf was used approximately 12 times to transport patients from Seymour Arm to Sicamous in medical emergencies over the past year. What happens in an emergency now?

BC Ambulance takes 2 ½ hours to come by road and, with our main bridge closed, the detour route adds an extra 30 minutes each way (and that’s if the FSR is passable in winter

conditions). BC Air Ambulance can only fly in good weather conditions so that leaves Search and Rescue by boat which isn’t feasible now be cause a patient can’t be taken down the wharf to the boat.

We are a small, caring community with many full-time elderly residents who rely heavily on our First Responders in emergency situations. We need help! We need financial support! We need to get CSRD’s attention and we need our wharf fixed!

We cannot stress enough the importance of the wharf to this water access only community. It is our muster station and our lifeline.

This IS a matter of life and death.

Seymour Arm First Responders Society

Paula Salamandyk, Secretary

Poor Election Turnout

Is it just me or did you also think the turnout for the civic election was pathetic? I know a lot of people have tuned out of politics but what they don’t understand is that when they do that, they are giving all their power away to someone else. And the truth is: your vote has the most power during a civic election.

I do want to thank all those who voted for me and I’m sorry that not enough people cared enough to vote. We could have made a big difference!

When it comes to politics, people have a lot of apathy. I understand that. But when you don’t vote, you are actually supporting the incumbent. Elections are always the incum bent’s to lose.

And in an election, it is not enough just to vote. People vote in Russia! You also have to be active supporting whom ever you are supporting.

Democracy loses every time an elector doesn’t vote. That makes it easier for those in power to stay in power and we all know how much they care about us! The fewer people who vote, the weaker democracy becomes, making it easier for a dictatorship type of gov’t to take over.

Eugene Eklund

School News

By Jan Penner

The Remembrance Day assembly was held on Nov. 9th. Thanks to all the guests who attended. We were for tunate to have 3 Chase Le gion members and 2 RCMP Chase Detachment members travel to our location. They made up the ceremony’s Co lour Guard and were piped into the gymnasium by Mr. John Angus. Presentations included an address by the principal, My Own Two Hands, sung by Division 1 and 3 classes, and a Grade 5 student read in Flan ders Field. Remem brance Day themed student art work was displayed on the walls. It was nice that this observance of the day was once again possible.

On November 30, the North Shuswap Volleyball team played in a Jamboree to mark the completion of the Volleyball season. Coach Schmidt was pleased with the progress of his players, seeing improvement from everyone. All the players had fun throughout their games. Congratulations to all the players and their coach!

Poinsettia Sales, a PAC fundraiser, was well support

ed. Thanks to all the family and friends who purchased poinsettias and other festive decorations. There will be a low-key Christmas Concert this year, complete with a Bake Sale. Please check this issue of the Kicker for more information about the concert.

Colds/Flu/Covid cases have been hitting students and staff very hard. Taking as many precau tions as possible will hopefully lessen the severi ty and frequency of illness. En suring your child is dressed for the weather is a great first step. Everyone is continuing to wash their hands frequently which is also a big help. Thanks to all our parents who have been keeping their children home when they are feeling under the weather.

Winter break is fast ap proaching. The first formal Learning Update went home on November 30. The last day of classes is December 16, with a return to school on January 3 in the New Year. We wish everyone a safe and Merry Christmas. Happy New Year everyone and we will see you in 2023!

North Shuswap Elementary Christmas Concert

By Sionna McTavish

Everyone is welcome to come and enjoy this year’s Christmas Concert at North Shuswap Elementary on Thurs day, December 15, 1:00 pm.

The Best Gift Ever musical will feature each class singing a Christmas Carol or festive song between short skits performed by students from multi-grade levels. As well, students have been merrily making a beautiful array of Christmas art and decorations that will be displayed.

If mouth-watering aromas greet you at the door, it’s be cause the Parent Advisory Committee (PAC) has organized a Bake Sale fundraiser for ongoing projects, including the Hot Lunch program which is completely funded by community support, explained Sabrina Byerley, PAC President. Hope to see you for some holiday cheer and tasty treats!

EnjoY Your school BrEak!

CALENDAR OF EVENTS

NORTH SHUSWAP

Scotch Creek FD Food Bank Boot Drive - at the Scotch Creek Market on December 3 from 9am to 3pm. You can drop off cash or non-perishable food items for the Christmas Hampers.

North Shuswap Christmas Hampers – Add your name or someone else’s. Deadline Dec. 4. Call Janice at 250-955-2393. Do nations at Scotch Creek Market & Ross Creek Store until Dec. 11. Christmas Hampers will be distributed on Dec. 14.

Kicker Christmas Colouring Contest - Pick up entries at PharmaChoice, Scotch Creek Market, Sunnyside (Fetch Panda), North Shuswap School and Ross Creek Store. Returned to the same locations by December 4. Gifts awarded Dec. 11 at NS Commu nity Hall. See details on page 20.

Indoor pickleball at the Celista Hall - You must know how to play to attend. Dec 2, 1-3pm/ Dec 5, noon-2pm/ Dec 7,8 1-3pm/ Dec 12, noon-2pm/ Dec 16,17 1pm-3pm/ Dec 19, 9-11am/ Dec 21, 23, 1-3pm. You must know how to play to attend. Lessons available for those who want to learn. Contact Bonnie Dunn 250-371-7567 for info on pricing & lessons.

Scotch Creek Hub Events - Community Christmas party Dec 17 / Ugly Sweater Party Dec 23 / Lions Club Meat Draw Saturdays 3pm to 5pm, Open Mic on Sundays at 2pm. Closed December 24 to January 3. See ad on page 10.

Santa Claus Parade - Evening of Dec. 9, starting at 5:30 pm at Imai Road/Squilax Anglemont in Scotch Creek. See ad on page 5.

N.S. Health 12 Days Christmas Raffle - Tickets drawn each day from Dec. 10 to 21 at the health centre. Check website or Face book for ticket sale details. See teaser ad on page 8.

Celista Hall Farmers MarketChristmas sale on December 10 in the NS Community hall, from 10am to 2pm. See ad on page 7.

Lions Kids’ Christmas Party & Kicker Colouring Contest gifts - Dec. 11, 1:30-3:30 North Shuswap Community Hall, Celis ta. Photo with Santa, games, hot dogs, raffle, door prizes. See ad on page 21.

Anglemont Fire Dept. Food Drive - Dec. 13 from 6 to 8pm. Fire department members will be collecting donations to benefit the North Shuswap Food Bank. For more details, see ad on page 33.

Christmas Concert - by North

Shuswap Elementary students on Thursday, December 15, 1:00 pm. Bake sale, everyone welcome. Christmas School Break - last day of classes at NS Elementary is Dec. 16, with a return to school on Jan. 3.

Potluck Christmas DinnerLakeview Centre on December 17. Free for members and their guests. Centre will provide the turkey, potatoes, and gravy, and each family needs to bring either a vegetable dish, salad, stuffing, or desert. This will be a Bring Your Own beverages, plates and cutlery event. Become a member at https://www.lakeviewcommu nitycentresociety.com/

Lions Meat & 50/50 Draw - Saturdays 3-5 pm at the Hub in Scotch Creek. Christmas turkeys and hams on Dec. 17, at last draw before Christmas. Next draw on Jan. 7.

Support groups - at N S Seniors & Community Resource Centre. Elder abuse issues Dec. 27 from 10-12, Depression groups on Dec 29, 10-12, 1-3 and 3-5. FMI and to enroll communityhealthworker. nshc@gmail.com

Support the Pink Piston Pad dlers - Breast Cancer Survivor/ Supporter Dragonboat team to attend an International Festival in March 2023 in New Zealand. Donations at Bottle Depot in Scotch Creek and PharmaChoice in Scotch Creek and Chase.

Lakeview Centre Regular Events - Carpet BowlingThursdays. Call Blair at 250955-0032 if you care to join or sub. Arts Group meets Tuesdays 10am-2pm upstairs. Crafts Group also meets Tuesdays at 10 am downstairs. Table Tennis is Mondays at 1 pm, and Cribbage players meet Thursdays at 1 pm. Check Lakeview Centre calendar for any December changes.

Certified NS First Responder - Red Cross training sessions twice monthly. Join the team and provide valuable service to the community. For more informa tion: Don 250-572-7735/Kath 250-318-0317.

Bingo - at North Shuswap Community Hall - every Monday except stat holidays. Bingo starts at 7:00 pm. See ad on page 35.

Hiking group for women –Monthly free organized outdoor experiences. Welcome to The Lady Alliance - Shuswap Chapter. FMI www.shuswapadventuregirl. ca or https://theladyalliance.com

Anglebay Entertainers – if you are interested in joining this fun-loving amateur entertainers group, call Alison 250-955-2588

or Ann 250-955-2899. In need of a musical director for this group to continue.

AA Meetings - Tuesdays at 7:00 pm at North Shuswap Christian Fellowship, 4079 Butters Road, Scotch Creek.

Doctors/ Labs in the Clinic - To book for lab work and for doctor appointments, call NS Health Centre at 250-955-0660 or check nshealthcentre.ca for clinic ser vices and availability of doctors. See ad on page 28.

StrongStart Program - Tues. & Thurs mornings from 8:30 to 11:30 at North Shuswap Elemen tary School for parents/caregivers with their children up to 5 years old. FMI 250-955-2214, or email: samclean@sd83.bc.ca

CHASE

Chase Country ChristmasDec. 2 & 3. Starts Friday at 4:00 pm with street vendors and shop ping for kids. Parade 5:30 pm, then tree Light up, Street Hockey, hay rides etc. Saturday- Breakfast, Craft Fair, Pictures & Story Time with Santa & Mrs Claus. Every one Welcome.

Chase Curling Club Pan cake Breakfast - Dec. 3, 8am to 11am. Pancakes, sausage, eggs, coffee, juice. CurlingHas started. New members welcome. FMI chasecurling. ca or Janice at 250-679-4471 or admin@chasecurling.ca. Leagues Tuesday morning and Wednesday evenings. Open curling Friday mornings.

Santa Sacks Chase LibraryAnytime after Dec 6, call Chase Library to arrange for a Santa Sack. Each sack will contain some activity sheets, colouring pages, easy paper craft, a surprise and some surprise library ma terials for children and tweens/ teens, just let staff know the ages! 250.679.3331 (library materials will be checked out to your card and must be returned)

Chase & District Fish & Game - meets the 3rd Monday of the month at 7 pm at Creekside Senior Center. (Except in July & August).

SOUTH SHUSWAP

‘Snow Ball’ Dinner/Dance - Fri. Dec. 2 at Shuswap Lake Estates Community Centre. Doors open at 6:00 pm. Fundraiser by South Shuswap Chamber.

Breakfast with Santa – Sat. Dec. 3 at Sorrento Memorial Hall. Pancake breakfast, photos and visits with Santa and kids take home a special gift from Santa. Reservations are required for 9:00 am and 10:15 am sittings. Go to

https://bit.ly/3VepKcm

Children’s Christmas PartyNotch Hill Hall Dec 4. Limited entry and pre registration is a must, FMI / registration call Mari anne Romyn at 250 835-4721.

Carlin Hall Coffeehouse - Dec 3rd featuring Making Do (bring donation for food bank. Jan 7, 7:00 pm Feature Act is Sunnyside Bluegrass, with Harold Pudwell and Friends. FMI, please contact Diane at 250 517 0861.

Christmas Dinner and Dance – Mon. Dec. 5 at Cedar Heights Centre. Tickets on sale now. FMI www.cedarheightscommunity.ca

Sunnybrae Hall CoffeehouseSat. Dec. 10. Doors and per former sign-ups at 6:30pm, show begins at 7:30pm. www.sunny braecommunityassociation.com ; Chilli and a Bun at the Seniors Hall from 5:30pm.

Cod Gone Wild - Neighbourhood Rounds Christmas Tour, Sorrento Memorial Hall, Saturday, Decem ber 10. Tickets at www.codgone wild.com/shows

Christmas Bake Sale – Sat. Dec. 10, 10 am to 1 pm at Cedar Heights Centre. Homemade good ies made by our talented bakers. South Shuswap Library - Kids Paper Craft with Karen – Jan. 24 3:00-4:00pm. Registration required. Take and make bags to go. Stop by the branch the first Saturday of the month. Limit of 25 bags. School-aged. PJ Storytime with Rebecca. Songs and rhymes with a light snack. Tuesdays 6: – 6:45pm. Feb 7, March 7 and April 11. Drop-in. Mother Goose with Rebecca songs, rhymes and fingerplays! A light snack will be served. Fridays 10:15 – 11:15am. Dec. 9,16, Jan. 6, 13, 20, 27, Drop-in. Unplug and Play Week. The Bug Guy will be at our branch January 28 from 1:00-2:00pm. Friends of the Library Book Sale January 27 10:00-5:00pm and January 28 10:00-4:00pm. FMI 250.675.4818

Sorrento Centre Events - Week ly playgroup, Creative Journaling, Positive Psychology for happiness and meaning, Be a Picasso, Wild Church Sorrento, and so much more! For information about events go to https://www.sorren tocentre.ca/events/calendar

SALMON ARM & AREA

Roaring 20’s Cocktail Party - December 3, 2022 @ 6pm at Song Sparrow Hall. Women Who Wine community giving event featuring Rise Up Indige nous Wellness, U Grow Girl, and South Shuswap Health Services Society. Cocktail bar, live music, appetizers and games. Tickets

and

can be purchased via etransfer to info@womenwhow ine.ca or online at https://women whowine.ca/donate/ SASCU Call for Candidates - An opportunity to become a leader of this prominent regional organization. Online info. session Dec. 6 at 7pm. Submission dead line Jan. 4. See ad on page 24. Salmon Arm Jazz Club - pres ents Okanagan-based trio led by saxophonist Craig Thomson, December 8 at the Nexus at First Community on Okanagan Avenue. Doors open at 6:30 pm, show starts at 7:00 pm, admis sion is by donation. Visit www. jazzsalmonarm.com Shuswap Music Festival Reg

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

Christmas Fair - Fundraiser for Canadian Mental Health Associ ation - December 10, 9am - 4pm, 5th Ave Seniors Centre, 170 5thAve SE

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

Enderby Folk & Pattern Dance - Christmas Dance Dec. 2, 7 pm at the Enderby Drill Hall. All

ages welcome. Meet first Friday of the month. More info at 250 546-6186

The Metropolitan Opera - at the Salmar Classic, On Alexander, Downtown. Sat. Dec 10, 9:55am, “The Hours”, Kevin Puts/Libretto Greg Pierce. For more infor mation, check out ttps://www. metopera.org/season/in-cinemas/ Shuswap Singers Christmas Concerts - on the occasion of its 60th anniversary, will present two concerts on Sat. Dec. 17 and Dec. 18. Both at 2:30pm at the Nexus at First United Church, 450 Okanagan Ave. SE Admission is by donation.

Coffee House at Gleneden Hall – Every third Saturday, 6:30 pm

performer registrations, starts at 7 pm. Music and poetry. FMI Call 250.832.2300

ONLINE / WEBINARS etc. CSRD Board Meeting - Friday, December 9 at 9:30 am. Pre-reg ister at www.csrd.bc.ca. (Note - usually third Thursday) Agenda available approximately one week in advance of the meeting.

ONLINE Guided MEDITA TION Classes - Tues. & Wed. 7 - 8:15 pm / Topics vary. Register at: www.kmcfv.ca

CSRD Learn how you

FireSmart - watch a 30 minute online webinar. Pre-register at www.csrd.bc.ca/firesmart 1-888248-2773.

November 14th, 1929November 4th, 2022

With great sadness, we share the peaceful passing of our grandfather, father and friend, Hank Dueck.

He is predeceased by his wife of 64 years, Sarah. He leaves his children Sandrina (Al) Harwood, Brad (Suzan) Dueck, Colleen (Mark) Luttman, his brother John (Linda) Dueck mourns his passing as well.

Grandpa Hank will be missed by his grandchildren and great-grandchildren. They all held a special place in his heart. Many nieces and nephews will also miss him dearly.

Countless friends of all ages will remember Hank fondly for his generous spirit and helping heart.

Instead of flowers, please enjoy your coffee outdoors tomorrow if possible and teach a kid to fish.

“Our dad didn’t tell us how to live; he lived, and let us watch him do it”

To leave an online message of condolence please visit www.bowersfuneralservice.com

Heinrich (Hank) Dueck

CLUBS & ORGANIZATIONS

Adams River Salmon Society.. info@salmonsociety.com

Anglemont Estates Waterworks

After Hours emergency 1-877-996-3344

Regular hours 250-832-8194

Anglemont Ladies Golf.. Bev Shea 250-955-0365

Anglemont Men’s Golf Club.. Gerry Shea 250 955-0365

Artistic Community.. Lynn Erin 250-955-6234

Arts Council for the South Shuswap. Karen Brown 250-515-3276

AWE Society.. awesociety7@gmail.com

Baseball Club.. Melissa Bischoff, mellybischoff@yahoo.ca

Blind Bay Garden Club.. Susan 250-835-2351

Camp Grafton.. Judy MacPherson 250-374-5115

CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

North Shuswap.. Adam Oruclar 403-805-6227

South Shuswap.. Karen Brown 250-515-3276

Chase.. 250-679-8432

Chase Fish & Game Club.. Helen 250-679-8019

COMMUNITY ASSOCIATIONS

Lakeview Community Centre

Hall Bookings.. Tony Hudson 778-765-1506

NS Community Association..

Loretta Greenough 250-955-6431

Seymour Arm Comm. Assoc.. Bob Reimer 250-833-7610

Sorrento & Area Community Association (SACA).. Barry Stokes 250-675-3306

Country Kids Play School.. Alanna Stearns 250-679-3005

Country Gardens Garden Club.. Chris Trueman 250-955-6467

CRIMESTOPPERS 1-800-222-8477

Crowfoot Mtn Snowmobile Club.. Tyler Morrison 403-422-1144

Cruising the Okanagan Car Club.. Follow on Facebook or Email Anna-Marie Eckhart - cruisingtheokanagan@gmail.com

CSRD - Area F Director.. Jay Simpson 250-517-9578

Emergency Support Services..Cathy Semchuk and Tom Hansen 250-833-5927 sep@csrd.bc.ca

FIRE DEPARTMENTS

Anglemont.. Graham Lucas 250-318-7157

Celista.. Roy Philips 250-804-3349

Scotch Creek/Lee Creek.. Ben Pellet 778-694-9890

Skwlax.. Paul Gamble 250-679-4472

Fire Services Coordinator.. Sean Coubrough 250-833-5955

FIRST RESPONDERS

North Shuswap.. Kath Rowbotham 250-318-0317

South Shuswap.. Debbie Edwards, backacher@telus.net

NS First Responder Society.. Don Devine, 250-955-2101, donedevine@gmail.com

Girl Guides.. 1-800-565-8111

Heart & Stroke Foundation of BC & Yukon.. Cynthia Bentley 250-955-2222

HEALTH SERVICES

NS Health Centre Society.. Lorna Joy Pawluk 780-721-2293

North Shuswap Health Clinic.. 250-955-0660

Chase Medical Clinic. 250-679-1420

Chase Health Centre.. 250-679-1400

SS Health Services Society.. Sue McCrae 250-675-3562

Sorrento Health Centre. 250-675-2167

Sorrento Health Centre Society.. Eldene Lindberg

250-675-4168

Historical Society.. Loretta Greenough 250-955-6431

Imai Ball Park Foundation.. Brian MacDuff 250-955-2981

Lions Club.. Ellen Little 250-955-0690

Needle Bugs Club.. Gerry Kendall 250-955-6279

Neighbourhood Emergency Preparedness.. Cathy Semchuk and Tom Hansen 250-833-5927 sep@csrd.bc.ca

Notch Hill Cemetery Society.. Louise 250-253-5776

NS Art Group.. Alison Elmes 250-955-2588

NS Cemetery.. Doug Prigmore 250-955-6454 or Loretta Greenough 250-955-6431

NS Christian Fellowship.. 250-955-2545

NS Craft & Needlework Club.. Gerry 250-517-7111

NS Elementary School.. Paul Rosman 250-955-2214

Okanagan Regional Library

North Shuswap Lee Carreiro 250-9555-8198

South Shuswap.. Leigh Schaffer.. 250-675-4818

Parents Advisory Committee.. Sabrina Beyerly 250-955-2214

Parks Commission Contact.. CSRD 1-888-248-2773

Pink Piston Paddlers – Breast cancer survivor and supporter dragon boat team – pinkpistonpaddlers22@gmail.com

RATEPAYERS ASSOCIATION

Magna Bay.. Alan Nunn 250-679-2565 or 604-522-3346

Scotch Creek.. Mary Stewart 250-955-2967

St. Ives.. Miki Andrejevic 780-405-5571

Salmon Arm Toastmasters - www.salmonarmtm.com salmonarmtm@gmail.com

School District # 83 Trustee.. Marty Gibbons, mgibbons@sd83.bc.ca

Seymour Arm Snowmobile Club.. Markus Schrott 250-307-4360, seymoursledding@gmail.com

Shuswap Back Country Riders.. Dave Crowfoot 403-512-9111 d.crowfoot@gmail.com

Shuswap Community Foundation.. 250-832-5428 www.shuswapfoundation.ca

Shuswap Emergency Program.. Cathy Semchuk and Tom Hansen 250-833-5927 sep@csrd.bc.ca

Shuswap Environmental Action Society.. Jim Cooperman 250-679-3693

Shuswap Hospice Society.. 250-832-7099

Shuswap Lake Aero Modelers.. 250-515-2731, www.slams.ca Shuswap Needle Arts Guild.. Gerry 250-517-7111 or Sharon 250-832-4588

Shuswap Theatre Society.. http://shuswaptheatre.com, https://www.facebook.com/Shuswaptheatre/ Shuswap Volunteer Search & Rescue.. Luke Gubbles 250-803-1095, www.shuswapvsar.org

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

Skmana Ski club.. skiskmana@gmail.com, www.ski-skmana.com

Sorrento Drop In Society.. 250-675-5358, website: sdis.ca

South Shuswap Canada Day Committee.. Tammy Packer 250-463-2495, www.shuswapcanadaday.ca

Taoist Tai Chi.. Judy 250-679-5425

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

Victim Services.. Guy Ramsay 250-679-8638

Whittlers Club.. Marian Zackery 250-955-0359

DISCLAIMER – The information in this publication is carefully gathered & compiled to ensure maximum accuracy. The North Shuswap Kicker 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.

INGREDIENTS

• 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour

• 1 teaspoon baking soda

• 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon

• 1 1/2 teaspoons ground cloves

• 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg

• 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger

• 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt

• 1 cup dark brown sugar, lightly packed

• 1/4 cup vegetable oil

• 1/3 cup unsulfured molasses

• 1 extra-large egg, at room temperature

• 1 1/4 cups chopped crystallized ginger (6 ounces)

DIRECTIONS

1. In a large bowl, sift together the flour, baking soda, spices and salt. In the bowl of an electric mixer fitted with the paddle attachment, beat the brown sugar, oil, and molasses on medium speed for 5 minutes. Turn the mixer to low speed, add the egg, and beat for 1 minute. Scrape the bowl with a rubber spatula and beat for 1 more minute. With the mixer still on low, slowly add the dry ingredients to the bowl and mix on medium speed for 2 minutes. Add the crystallized ginger and mix until combined.

2. Scoop the dough with a small ice cream scoop. With your hands, roll each cookie into a 1 3/4-inch ball and then flatten them lightly with your fingers. Press both sides of each cookie in granulated sugar and place them on the sheet pans. Bake for exactly 13 minutes. The cookies will be crackled on the top and soft inside. Let the cookies cool on the sheets for 1 to 2 minutes, then transfer to wire racks to cool completely.

Got a favourite recipe

Contact Us at The ICKER

7320 Estate Place, Anglemont, B.C. V0E 1M8

Call/Text 250-515-2830

Web: www.kicker.ca

Director: Jan Wojciechowski

Publisher: Tracy Wojciechowski

Managing Editor: Jo Anne Malpass

Writers: Jan Penner & Sionna McTavish

Advertising Manager: Catalina Montgomery

Advertising: Cindy Korchinski, Anja Heldner

Classifieds: Lena Whittaker

EMAIL CONTACT INFO

Advertising: advertising@kicker.ca

Classifieds: classifieds@kicker.ca

Editorial: editorial@kicker.ca

General Inquiries: kicker@kicker.ca

Subscriptions: $60.00/yr (+gst)

like

share? Email it to kicker@kicker.ca

Drop boxes: Scotch Creek Market, Ross Creek Store - Magna Bay or 7320 Estate PlaceAnglemont.

@shuswapkicker @shuswapkickerscoop #shuswapkickerscoop

Honoured to be living & working on the Unceded Lands of the Secwepemc People

Twas the night before Christmas and all thru the house, not a creature was stirring, not even a mouse. All the stockings were hung by the chimney with care In the hope that St. Nicholas soon would be there. Then what to my wondering eyes should appear, A miniature sleigh and eight tiny reindeer. A little old driver so lively and quick, I knew In a moment it must be St. Nick. And more rapid than eagles his reindeer all came As he shouted, “On Dasher” and each reindeer soon flew With the sleigh full of toys and St Nicholas too. Down the chimney he came with a leap and a bound He was dressed all in fur and his belly was round He spoke not a word but went straight to his work And filled all the stockings then turned with a jerk. And laying his finger aside of his nose, then giving a nod up the chimney he rose But I heard him exclaim as he drove out of sight "Merry Christmas to all and to all a Good Night".

you would

to