We want you to be a part of the 40th Annual Raft Race on Saturday, June 5th, 2004. Our theme this year is 'The Railway-Yahk's Heritage.' We're inviting teams from Idaho, Montana, the Creston Valley, Cranbrook and
beyond. We're challenging community groups, police & fire departments, businesses and schools. Find the rules and regulations for the Race on the website www.yahkkingsgate.com. Come for the kick off of Raft Race Weekend on Friday night or the pancake breakfast and parade on Saturday morning. Stay all day or all weekend. Our new event this year is an antique car "Show & Shine."
There's sure to be something for everyone. Enlist your friends and family to enter the race or come and cheer you on!
The 2004 Raft Race promises to be as exciting as ever with prizes of 40% of entrance fees received for first place; 20% for second place and 10% for third place. There is a $40 fee entry fee for each raft entered in the race. Some rafts are available for rent at $10. each on a "first come, first served" basis. These must be returned. Bring your own paddles and approved flotation device!
Or perhaps you'd like your team to participate in our Slo-Pitch, Bocci or Horseshoe tournaments? Or come set up your table outside and sell your wares for only $10.00 a day
Bring an instrument and join in the jam session in the Refreshment
Gardens. Raffle prizes are worth more than $1000!
Meanwhile, check out our website. We hope you'll come and be part of the
fun. We're looking forward to your participation and we'll be in touch with more
details just as soon as we hear from you.
Regards,
Bill Currier Raft Race Co-ordinator (250) 424-5452
Email: ykwebsite@yahoo.ca
The Fire Department phone number : 424-5161.
VOLUNTEERS NEEDED IMMEDIATELY
Training and equipment available
Look inside for :
GOOD BYE STEVE & NOREEN
HAWKINS CREEK INFO
ELECTRICITY HISTORY
SCHOOL UPDATE
ETC...
Spring Bake Sale
On March 27th we held our annual Spring Craft and Bake Sale, and true to form we woke up to a dusting of snow. As the day progressed the weather turned nicer and that started to bring people out to view the many crafts and to enjoy our soup and sandwich lunch, or to just have a snack and coffee.
We had 19 tables booked, which saw crafters come from Kimberley, Cranbrook, Creston. Local participants included a table from our Seniors group. Despite some slow sale tables, participants enjoyed themselves.
Our lunch was very successful, with a nice profit being realized. This could not of happened without the generous donations from: Hay U Country Kitchen, Kootenay Cafe and Deb Whitehouse, Judy Dickson, Penny ap Anderson, Lynne Yaremkewich, and Elizabeth Cotton.
A thank you is in order to Delta Fay Cruikshank, Joyce Johnson, Kurt Hill, and to Don Russett for getting the tables finished in time for the sale. Thanks goes to Cresteramics of Creston for their generous donation of door prizes. We'd also like to thank all the participants that donated prizes for the door prize raffle.
A big thank you to everyone that came out and supported this event and hopefully we will see you all in the fall for our FALL CRAFT and BAKE SALE in late November. Cathy Adams
School Information
Plans are underway to take our year-end trip on June 28th and 29th. We have booked our
trip to the Tipi Camp Nature Retreat on Kootenay Lake. Check out their website at
www.tipicamp.bc.ca
to see this beautiful spot.
To Rebecca who won first place in the Local Royal
Canadian Legion Poppy Poster Contest and 2nd in the zone.Way to
go!!!!!
GOOD BYE ...TWO SCOOP STEVE & NOREEN
Passing the "Torch"
If you have been to Yahk, B.C. then you probably have met Steve Shaw. Along with his
wife Noreen, they ran the famous TWO SCOOP STEVE ice cream shop, MAGGIE'S TEA
ROOM, a
bed& breakfast, and a gift shop on their property along the highway on Johnson Road. Recently, the residents of Yahk, and surrounding area, came to say goodbye to Steve and Noreen who are officially retiring from their business. They made many friends along the way, the locals, the regular travelers through Yahk, including the railway workers who would stop their trains across the street, all came to Two Scoop not only for the ice cream but to spend time chatting with Steve. If customers weren't there for the ice cream then it was for a chance to sample some of the tasty treats at Maggie's Tea Room. Noreen (Maggie) was renowned for her Rhubarb Coffee cake, one of those hard to resist temptations on the menu. Steve and Noreen put a lot of energy into their business and developed their property with beautiful walking paths and sitting areas down to the Moyie River just behind the shop. It is a nice quiet place to get away from it all and take a stroll down to the river. Their passion has centered on good service for their customers, and whether you were a first time customer, you felt like family there and always welcome.
Mike, Marlene, and their daughter Angela will continue the Two Scoop tradition and have recently purchased the business. Their plans will include keeping the TWO SCOOP STEVE ice cream going at full speed with an early May opening. Maggie's Tea Room and Coffee Cabin will have a few changes (the rhubarb coffee cake will be there), and the quaint bed and breakfast
will continue. Next door to the existing business the Mitchell's are building a new shop for their other business, the
Goat Mountain Soap Company. Marlene has been making goat milk and Glycerin soaps for just over four years and is looking forward to the new production area. A portion of the new building will also include retail space to sell the soaps and other giftware, especially showcasing products of the Kootenays. Opening of Goat Mountain Soap Company will take place in June. The Mitchell's
Report from Hawkins Creek
Since our last report, the members of the Hawkins Creek Stewardship committee have
continued to develop our resources and extend our understanding of watershed issues. Perhaps
the most unexpected development was the formation of an International Restoration Task Force
under the auspices of the Kootenai River Network, consisting of individuals, groups and agencies
from Canada and the US collaborating in cross-border preservation and restoration initiatives in
the Moyie and Yaak River drainages including Hawkins Creek, Freeman Creek and the West
Yahk River. The first meeting of the task force was held in January at the Yahk Hall, and
participants had the opportunity to make first contact with other members and exchange views
and information. We learned a great deal about the achievements and concerns of the people
working on watershed issues in Montana, and as a result several assessments have been planned
in our watershed for the coming summer to gather more information about mutual areas of
concern.
Some of these planned projects require hiring professionals and are contingent on funding, while
others only require volunteer labour and will proceed whether or not funding is acquired to
cover the costs incurred by the volunteers, although we anticipate that more people will be
willing to help if it doesn't cost them anything. The planned projects include a fish habitat
assessment, a beaver reintroduction feasibility study, a westslope cutthroat trout genetic purity
analysis, monitoring turbidity on America Creek during the flood, and a forage assessment.
Volunteers to assist in some of these projects would be greatly appreciated!
Lots of work is available that doesn't require any particular skill, just people who are
willing to spend some time up Hawkins Creek this summer, making observations and reporting to
us on what they see.
The most recent CRMP (Community Resource Management Program) meeting was on
March 22nd. The resource users all reported on their plans for the summer. On the north side,
Tembec will doing some work on the bottom seven km. of the Cold Creek road, and putting in a
temporary bridge to access a planned cutblock on the west side. There will also be road
construction in the vicinity of Ryan Creek. Their harvest schedule is currently uncertain, since
most of their resources will be going to harvesting firekill in other areas. On the south side, BC
Timber Sales have completed the Screw Creek road and will be selling a cutblock there this
summer, and they will be extending Otto South to access planned cutblocks. Two cuts are
planned for the King Creek area in the fall. BCTS reports no pine beetle problems to date.
The range users' grazing plans are essentially the same as last summer, with small
variations. Total number of cattle in the watershed will be 60 yearlings and 320 cows with
calves. Blackmores will not be using their tenure, and Schofers are filling it with a temporary
permit. Heavy concentrations of cattle in Freeman last season resulted in the range users being
found out of compliance during the fall inspection. This was the first time they have received a
non-compliance report, and it resulted in a warning future non-compliance reports will result in
fines. We are hoping to get the senior range agrologist out from Victoria to evaluate Freeman this
year, as recommended in his 2002 report on Hawkins.
The new Forest and Range Practices Act will place more responsibility
for planning and operations on the tenure holders, and shift the focus from prescriptive
processes to results-based management. Under FRPA, resource users will be required to protect
timber, wildlife, fish, soil, water, biodiversity, and cultural heritage resources. The committee
hopes to have input into defining the measures to address these objectives in our watershed
through the CRMP. This will allow us to entrench our values in the standards that are set for the
tenure holders to meet in our drainage, and hopefully provide greater protection for our
environment and natural resources. Fines for non-compliance under FRPA will be much higher
than under the current system, and we hope that this means the resource users will be more
motivated to operate responsibly. However, it also means that the community must take greater
responsibility for monitoring conditions in our watershed and reporting incidents of non-
compliance, since MoF will n longer be making routine inspections.
A bird-watching field trip is planned for Hawkins and Freeman for May 29th. A group of
birders will be coming down to join up with community members for the day to observe and
inventory the bird species in our watershed.
The HCSC held a public meeting on April 21st to share more details on these issues with
the community and get input into our plans for the coming season.
Anyone wanting to participate can contact
Melissa Fuller at 424-5465 or mfuller@cyberlink.bc.ca
Bull Trout
by Les Halvarson
As fishing season approaches I find myself daydreaming of past years and time spent
walking the banks of the Moyie River with fishing pole in hand. Memories of trout, rainbows,
cutthroats, brookies and bull trout fighting on the end of my line. I look forward to this year's
fishing season and all that it may bring. However, one thing troubles me. Bull trout. What's
happened to the bull trout in our river. Last year I didn't catch any. The year before that I only
caught one. Talking with other anglers I find that they're experiencing the same results.
When I first moved here in 1974, there was a healthy population of bull trout in the river. Many
of them were in the 24 inch plus range. They have been in steady decline. Bull trout are an
indicator species. They're one of the first species to go when you have environmental problems
in a river system. They need cold unpolluted water with clean gravel to survive. They don't
reach sexual maturity till 5 to 7 years of age and then spawn every other year. They can live up
to 12 years. Spawning occurs in small streams. Bull trou
Montana's Flathead Lake have been observed to travel up to 250 km to spawn. Montana
closed all the tributaries in the Flathead river to bull trout fishing years ago in an effort to protect
the species. Idaho has a public awareness program on the plight of their bull trout.
The decline of the bull trout can be attributed to many factors. Poor logging practices
put silt in the streams smothering fish eggs. Cutting of shade trees along the riparian areas
causes increases in water temperature and further erosion. Cattle grazing in riparian areas causes
increased pollution and soil erosion. Over fishing and poaching of spawning trout also cause
major declines in bull trout populations. Introduction of species such as the brook trout have also
been detrimental as they are more aggressive than their cousins the bull trout.
Fisheries biologist Kenton Andreashuk has applied the past two years for funding to do a
radio telemetry study on the bull trout in the Moyie River. He's also monitored spawning the
past 4 years and the number of spawning redds over that period has steadily declined to where
only 13 were observed last year. Biologists are concerned and we all should be. This great fish
is in trouble here in the Moyie. It's well on its way to extinction here.
If you want to learn more about efforts to save our bull trout population you can contact
me. If you've caught bull trout in the past few years I'd like to hear about it. If you've had
similar sad fishing experiences for bull trout I'd like to hear about that too. We need more public
awareness of the dilemma facing this valuable resource.
Call Les Halvarson at 250-424-5524
THANK YOU
Marcia Matheson would like to give her heart felt thanks to the Yahk Kingsgate
Recreation Society for their generosity as well as community members.
Thank you,
Marcia Matheson
In Passing... We are saddened by the loss of our community members:
John Brisdon:April 17th, 2004
Hank Cowan
Bill Denny:January 13th, 2004
Erma Hicklan: December 19th, 2003
Bruce Hall:March 29th, 2004
Arnie & Roni GuentherJanuary 7th, 2004
Gordon Matheson:February 2nd 2004
Emergency Response Committee Report of the Meeting March 30, 2004
There has been $16,000 approved for the Wild Fire Awareness Meetings to be held throughout the entire RDCK. We have been asked to submit a Date, Time, & Place so the schedule can be made up. It is hoped these meeting will be completed before the end of June. (The tentative Yahk/Kingsgate meeting is June 9th/04. Contact Rod Yaremkewich for more details 424-5488)
The 1st Responder Program was started in 1980 and is designed for outlaying areas to provide aid before the Ambulance arrives. Do we want to find out what is required to set a program up in the Yahk area?
Flood risk is low because of the below normal, upper elevation snow pack in the Kootenays.
Hall Mountain Fire Association Report
The fire department has already been called out on three wild land fires. One fire occurred up Hawkins Creek and two fires were in the USA. One structure fire occurred involving a small manufacturing business. Two buildings were completely involved when the first truck arrived. This was a difficult fire to fight as the metal roofing had already collapsed over the fire hiding contents consisting of many propane bottles, oxygen and acetylene bottles, and two 500 gallon tanks of used oil. Firemen responded at approximately 3pm and remained on the scene until 10pm. New wild land gear has been purchased and handed out. New structure turnouts have been ordered. The money for this comes from US grants. Remember the fire department is always looking for volunteers!!
Call Bill Whitehouse (250)424-5583
Rod Yaremkewich 424-5488
Bill Currier424-5452
Feel free to talk to any member of the Fire Department for information.
Yahk's Electricity
Canadian Pacific Railway (CPR) bought Kings Sawmill at Yahk in 1917. Some time
after that CPR put in a power plant and supplied Yahk Hotels and store and very few houses with
32-volt electricity. There was No power on Mill Street on the flats.
Bob Murray had a power plant in the garage that burnt January 2000. He supplied power
only for Mill Street.
Power started at 7:00 am and was shut of at 10pm. The operator blinked the lights twice
before shutting the power plant down. Dances until midnightyou grabbed a match and lit an oil
lamp.
Our 3-room house had one light hanging from the ceiling in the each of the 3 rooms. We
had no plug ins. The wiring ran on 5"long and ¾" square white insulators on the ceiling and
inside walls. I never saw an electrical meter cost per month.
1955
Power was brought in from Eastport Idaho to Yahk.
In 1966 I dug 34 holes for power poles and anchors bringing the power to Lyle Draper's
home (Jess Johnson residence then) and to Walter Kloss. Our cost from Bruce Parks (Livesley's
residence then) was $1000.00. This was divided three ways to equal $335.65 each.
I got a rebate of $6.35 because I had dug the holes. Gus Zeiler (Reiny's dad), supplied
the material and wired our home for $325.
Note, BC Hydro bought the power from the USA and sold it to their customers.
Eventually the line reached Irishman's Creek in the 1970's and to the top of Goatfell Hill.
Then the Hydro line was connected to Moyie and we got power from the Cranbrook end.
The bad thing about this was that Hydro disconnected all the equipment from Kingsgate, so when
there's a power outage, we can't use an USA source.
The Creston line eventually reached Joe Hollick's (now Merv Goddards) and a
transformer and shut of switch was installed. The Goatfell line reached to Joe Hollick's from the
other side as far as Kitchener closing the line gap to Creston.
submitted by Roy Johnson
Thank you Roy for the memories!
There was Yak in Yahk.and a railway station and a sawmill and
many other things, but there has always
been the trees and bushes and flowers and birds
and animals.continued next page
Shepherdia canadensis, shown left, better known as soopolallie, is in bloom at this time, and
likely was here when Thompson came by in 1808. Take a look on your property and see if you
have it blooming. After it blooms, it will have bright red berries on a bush about 1-2 metres high.
"APRIL 20TH, 2004"
LEE & DOROTHY ROSE
50TH WEDDING ANNIVERSARY
They met in Missouri in 1954. Moved to Canada in 1968 where they lived in Houston BC
for 35 years. They moved to Yahk last september. The Senior's group had a cake for the
Rose's.
Mr. Rose said ," the years went by like pages in a book."
HAPPY 50TH ANNIVERSARY
Thank You
Kurt Hill !
Kurt was our maintenance person and dedicated his time and effort to the Hall well
beyond his regular duties. For this we Thank you!
Welcome Silke (Colin) Schmuland as our new Maintenance personnel
We would like to take this opportunity to thank all the good people of Yahk and surrounding area for their friendship, patronage and conversations during our stay at the restaurant. Our good memories will stay with us for the years to come.
A special thank you to Rod & Lynne Yaremkewich, Vette Cotton, Bill & Linda Currier, and George Beattie for all their help in closing out. Respectfully Roy and Deb
We are sad to say that Roy has since passed away.
RYAN
KNAPTON
To everyone in the Yahk/ Kingsgate area, I finished my year with the JR B Medicine Hat
Cubs hockey team and we ended our year in second place in our division and were
eliminated by the Okotoks Bisons in the second round of the playoffs. Next year our team
hosts the JR B Nationals so we are automatically in it. My Goals Against Average was
1.84 and my Save Percentage was .947 Thank you everyone in yahk for you local support.
Ryan
There was Yak in Yahk.(continued)
In May of 1808 the mighty Moyie and all it's tributaries like Irishman Creek and
Englishman Creek were overflowing and making travel very uncomfortable. David
Thompson and his Indian guide, Ugly Head, struggled on foot and horseback for 14 days
along the wet and muddy shores of the Moyie to get to Moyie Lake from Kootenay Flats
(near present day Creston).
Thompson would have seen many of the same shrubs and plants that we are watching
come in bud and bloom now.
One of the shrubs would have
been Shepherdia canadensis, better known as "soopolallie"
It's a really neat looking plant at this time of the year; the leaves stick up like rabbit ears
from the buds. The buds are round and yellow and have little 'antennae' sticking out of
them. This plant has been known as Indian ice creamthe berry pulp can be whipped up
into a soapy, bitter froth. Actually the name soopolallie is Chinook for soap berry. The
berries are rich in iron and have been used medicinally by the indigenous peoples for
everything from heart attacks to indigestion.
Thompson also likely heard the song of the American Dipper. She is a beautiful little
bird that 'fishes' the Moyie River. She gathers her feed from the waters edge, and will
even dive into the water and float down on the current until she gets to another rock to
grab floating insects and other edibles. They have the most beautiful songsit by the
Moyie, look for a dark bird along the edge or on rock in the river, and you'll hear it!
By 1898, Canadian Pacific railway had built a rail line through southern British Columbia
and through the
area that we all know now as Yahk. By 1904, passenger trains went
through Yahk to the east and to the west dropping off settlers & freight. The Spokane
Soo Passenger Train was coming up from the states by 1905. By 1912 Yahk boosted a
C.P.R. railway station. Most of the newcomers came in by train. One local woman
remembers her first minutes in Yahk, coming in on the train from the east in 1933,
stepping off the train, and being greeted by a young fellow. This fella informed them that
there was a Christmas concert going on in town and that they should attend. That young
fellow stills livesas does that same young girl.
By 1906 the King Sawmill was built and then in 1917, the C.P.R. developed that sawmill
into a very big operation. The mill was on the Sommerfeld property just on the east side
of town. With the development of this mill came electricity, but when the mill shut down
in 1933, the electricity went with it. One old time Yahk resident Rosie Brenner has told
me many wonderful stories about growing up in Yahk. One of these stories was the day
that electricity came back to Yahk! It was October 7, 1955, her son's birthday party.
Everyone knew that the power was coming back. Rosie's house was already wired.
Before they sat down to light the birthday candles, they flicked the switch on, and just as
they blew out the candlesthe lights came on! Rosie had also saved all her ironing so
that she could get it done the easy way, with an electric iron!
Rose and her husband Adolph ran Brenner's Café in downtown Yahk was 1956 until
1973. She opened with the intention of only serving sandwiches from her front room.
Her
first customer was famished and
commented that it had been ages
since he had had a home-cooked meal, so, well as he put it, the roast was already cooked,
she whipped him up a full course roast beef diner, and that was the beginning of a
successful business. The café no longer stand, but it was beside Race Trac Gas. Rose
cooked up to 25 full course suppers in a day on a wood cook-stove. She had one propane
burner to help make getting out the meals easier! She is still renowned for her baking and
her wedding cakes she decorated for Yahk families.
Rose was born in Spokane in 1921. After 6 months, her family moved to Aldrich, a
railway section camp near the village of Moyie, about where the Eagles nest Resort is
now. When Rose was four, her family moved to lived on Mill Street in Yahk.
Mill Street ran between the Moyie River and the CPR Sawmill. Cottonwood trees lined
both sides of the street. Travelers coming through Yahk would take Mill Street and
always remembered it as being so beautiful, like a Lovers Lane.
We have so much to be proud of here in Yahk and Kingsgate and Glenlily and Ryan and
Goatfel; a colorful history and a diverse natural history.
I would like to thank Rita and Tom Dickson for using their book, the Unforgotten
Memories of Yahk, for information. Also, a thank you to June Johnson and Rose
Brenner for their memories. The information about the soopolallie came from
Plants of Southern Interior British Columbia by Parish Coupe Lloyd, just the best
identification book.
Story by Delta Fay Cruikshank
BIRTHDAY DRAW
A friend or family member included your name for the Birthday draw for $15 gift
certificate at participating merchants in Yahk Kingsgate area:
Rick Aldrich
Jean Brisdon
Pearl Brohm
Amber Burt
Dorothy Burt
TylerBurt
Rebecca Burt
Jim Cowan
Bill Currier
Linda Currier
George Dickson
Tom Dickson
Rita Dickson
Lyle Draper
This draw includes birthdays to June 1st, 2004. Let us know when your friend or family
member birthday is so we can include it in the next draw. Last WINNER drawn at April
14ths general meeting:
Congatulations... Simon Gray
George Hohl
Joanne Hollis
Barb Hollis
Mini Johnson
Roy Johnson
Sieglinde Krampitz
Gunter Krampitz
Joyce Johnson
Paul McCartney
Jessica Milbourne
Haley Patterson
Melanie Sommerfeld
Glen Wesche,
Catlin Wesche
Jerod Wesche
Bill Whitehouse
NEW YKRS
BOARD OF DIRECTORS
Bill Mawley President
Rod Yaremkewich Vice President
Monika Currier Secretary
Cathy Adams Treasurer
Lynne YaremkewichHall Bookings
Paul McCartney member at large
Don Russett member at large
For hall bookings call 424-5462 please leave message
Board members can be contacted through
the WEBSITE: www.yahkkingsgate.com
THANK YOU PREVIOUS BOARD
MEMBERS FOR ALL YOUR WORK
Elizabeth Cotton
Joyce Johnson
Noreen Shaw
HAPPY 65th BIRTHDAY
GEORGE DICKSON
! MAY 24 TH !
Love Judy...
Yahk Kingsgate Children's Christmas Party Report
We had another successful year, and our thanks to the volunteers, the business establishments and the community for their on going support.
The Children's Christmas Fund offers a $100.00 Bursary to the High School graduates of the (424) area. Jason Dutton, (2002 grad) and John Esler, (2003 grad) have received the bursary.
Jason attends school in Lethbridge and John took safety
courses in Calgary and is currently working in Lethbridge.
There is still time for the 2003 grads, before September 2004, to apply. The up and
coming grads of 2004 can apply as soon as the requirements are met. Those requirements
are a High School graduation diploma, a letter stating a bit of their future plans and a
receipt of payment to a post-secondary course.
For information contact
Deb Whitehouse @ 424-5583.
Congratulations to all the grads of the
Yahk Kingsgate area!!!!
Summer 2004
Spring 2004
Spring 2004
Summer 2004
IMPORTANT GENERAL MEETING... SEPTEMBER 14TH 7:30pm
Vote on Proposed Waste Management Agreement (SEE LAST PAGE FOR DETAILS...)
Thank you! Volunteers, people that attended, donated and
advertised for:
The Yahk-Kingsgate 40th Annual
Raft Race Weekend
June 4 - 6, 2004
We want to thank all the folks that helped out for this years 40th Annual Raft Race weekend.
The rain didn’t stop anyone! The paddles were flying. The New Dugouts protected the players
from the rain...they look great! Our new event this year, the antique car "Show & Shine" went
well. We heard the parade was the largest in years. There was something for everyone including
great food. Please take a look on the website for more pictures from the weekend.
Website:www.yahkkingsgate.com
Regards,
Bill Currier 2004 Raft Race Coordinator
Simon Gray & Ed Dickson
won the 2004 Raft Race!
(Second time in a row for Ed!)
2nd:Lyle Todhunter & Andrew McCartney
3rd: Ken Cervo & Quinton McCartney
.FALL FAIR ... SEPTEMBER 18TH
New Feature this year... a Farmers Market!
Join us 11am at the hall! Book your tables early!
*Many categories *Outdoor Concession: Chili & Corn *Raffle at 4:30 pm *Entry forms at:
Remember: Have official entry form in by Sept.10th, 3pm
Forming a
Chamber of Commerce in the Yahk Area
has many benefits and helps promote our wonderful community and businesses.
Interested
businesses please call
424-5115.
Hey everyone...
Submit all Fall Fair entries by Sept 10th on :
”Official Entry Forms “
Please mail completed forms and fees (chq or Money Order) to:
YKRS Fall Fair
Box 13,
Yahk B.C.
V0B 2P0
or drop off at:
Daphne’s Laundromat
Grouse Mountain Store
Yahk Discount Foods
RAFT RACE 2004 & VARIETY
FALL FAIR! Bocce! & Horseshoes! I’ll be there! The Farmers Market is from 11am -7
pm and
Participants are allowed to sell entries at 6 pm !
NICE DUGOUTS!
2004 SLOW PITCH WINNERS:
1ST - BALL BINGERS
2ND- PYRAMID ISOTOPES
3RD- LOWER KOOTENAY BAND
Report from Hawkins Creek
This summer sees the first of our planned assessments taking place in the Hawkins Creek and West
Yaak watersheds. The HCSC was awarded funding from Columbia Basin Trust to conduct a fish
habitat assessment in the drainages. There are a few reasons why getting a fish habitat assessment
is very important. First and foremost, what’s good for fish is good for everyone. If we want to
make our watershed healthy, approaching preservation and restoration from a fish habitat
perspective is a foolproof method. To sustain a healthy fish population, you need clean cool water,
stable banks and beds, and plenty of vegetation in the riparian area. The same can be said for
birds, wildlife, and humans. Anything that the assessment identifies as being unhealthy for fish is
sure to be something unhealthy for all who use the creek. This assessment will identify areas that
have been impacted by forestry and range use. Under the new Forest and Range Practices Act,
resource users who do not address identified sources of degradation risk substantial fines. The
report won’t have much information in it that’s new to the people who live and play in the Hawkins
watershed – what’s important is that this information is formally recorded in an officially
recognized format, with all the background information included so that anyone who reads it will
understand exactly what the problems are. The contract for this assessment was awarded to
Purcell Resources Inc., a consulting firm which has conducted previous work in both watersheds
and has access to substantial background information.
Another reason why getting a fish habitat assessment is important is that it is a universally
accepted first step in accessing funding for stream-bank restoration projects, which require heavy
equipment and labourers at a considerable expense, and access to experts in the field who can
recommend how the work should be done. It’s important to get funding for these things because the
community can’t afford to pick up the tab. We are very fortunate that Columbia Basin Trust has
decided to invest in our watershed. This has opened up other avenues of funding to pursue our
goals. Additional funding from Tembec and BC Timber Sales is permitting us to incorporate a
hydrological analysis into the overview assessment. This assessment will examine things that effect
the way the water flows, the causes of surge flooding and early dewatering, and make
recommendations as to how these problems might be corrected. The hydrological portion of the
assessment is being conducted by Apex GeoScience. The two consulting firms will be sharing
resources and information, allowing us to maximize the benefits from our funding dollars. All
funding is being administered on our behalf by the Columbia Kootenay Fisheries Renewal
Partnership, and the contracts were awarded by consensus between the contributors.
The Columbia Kootenay Fisheries Renewal Partnership (CKFRP) is a community-oriented
partnership dedicated to renewal and enhancement of fish populations, fish habitat and aquatic
ecosystems. Much of our progress to date is thanks to our CKFRP stewardship coordinator,
Kenton Andreashuk. Through his guidance we have learned a great deal about how watersheds
work, and how to implement preservation and restoration initiatives. Much appreciation is also
owed to our Ministry of Forests stewardship officer, Dale Anderson, whose support and guidance
have contributed immensely to this undertaking. Their assistance has been crucial in obtaining and
administering the funding we have received to pursue our goals this summer. A great deal of
support has also been provided by Jim and Laura Duncan of the Kootenai River Network. The
KRN is an alliance of diverse citizen's groups, individuals, businesses, industry, and tribal and
government water resource management agencies in Montana, Idaho, and British Columbia. At the
time of writing the details are being finalized for further assessment in the West Yaak drainage this
summer, to be funded by the KRN.
It should be noted that all the funding provided for this work comes from sources other than
government – no taxpayer dollars are being spent on these projects. The Columbia Basin Trust was
created by the Columbia Basin Trust Act in 1995 to benefit the region most adversely affected by
the Columbia River Treaty (CRT). The CRT, ratified by the United States and Canada in 1964,
led to the construction of three storage dams in the Basin (Duncan, Keenleyside and Mica Dams)
and one in Montana (Libby Dam). The purpose of these dams was flood control and power
production in both countries. Most of the benefits of the CRT were enjoyed by areas outside the
Basin while most of the negative effects were, and still are, felt by the Basin and its residents. It
was agreed that a portion of the profits from the sale of power from these dams would be set aside
to be reinvested for the benefit of Basin residents. This year the CBT decided to invest $18,350 in
our watershed. Tembec and BC Timber Sales have each contributed another $5000. The KRN
funding comes from industry, non-governmental organizations and private foundations. As a result,
we are getting the assessments that we need at no cost to the community. It should also be noted
that, at this stage, none of the funding is coming into the community either. However, once the
assessments are in place and restoration work begins, there will be contracts for heavy equipment
and labourers that could be awarded within the community.
One major step in this process which has already been completed is an aerial survey of the
drainages. This survey allows our consultants a unique and valuable perspective of the area, especially those portions which aren’t visible from the road. The helicopter alone cost us $6000, but was worth every penny for the value of the information it provided. The remainder of the funding is allocated for the cost of the consultants. The accounts for the project are being kept by CKFRP, and anyone interested in further details can contact Kenton at 417-3474. The books are open for public viewing and Kenton is willing to bring them down to Yahk some time if people are interested in reviewing the budget for this project and asking questions about how the funding has been allocated.
This summer the range use plan states specifically that cows are not supposed to be congregating
in riparian areas – it’s acceptable for them to pass through, but they’re not to settle down for weeks
on end. This is the kind of activity that causes the most riparian damage. If anyone observes a
riparian area in the Hawkins or West Yaak watersheds that they feel is being degraded by heavy
cattle use, it’s very important that they report it. The onus is on the community to monitor resource
use in the watershed and ensure that violations are reported, and it’s difficult for the HCSC to
monitor the entire watershed.
Concerns about cattle activities can be reported directly to Debby McCurrach at the range rider camp, or to Les Halvarson (lhalvarson@cyberlink.bc.ca, 424-5524)
or Melissa Fuller (mfuller@cyberlink.bc.ca, 424-5465)
POT LUCK...MUSIC JAM
Community Potluck at Currier's
Saturday August 14, 4:00 p.m.
until ????
Bring potluck and musical
instruments!
______________________________
Buffalo Burger Barbecue
& Music Jam @
Two Scoop Steve's
Sunday, August 15
5:00 - 7:00 pm
In Passing...
Esther Grafenauer
August 1st 1918 - July 6th 2004
THANK YOU
Betty McMahon and Family would like to thank
everyone who attended Esther Grafenauer’s
celebration of life at the Yahk Kingsgate Hall
Saturday, July 17th, 2004. Thank you to Mary Ann Stewart for playing the Piano and
Accordian. A
special thank you is in order for the people who helped Esther in her time of need.
FIRE PROTECTION
The Hall Mountain Volunteer Fire Association is unique to this area. Volunteer
Firefighters from Boundary County, Idaho and the Yahk Kingsgate area join together to
provide fire protection for both sides of the Border. This encompasses 350 Square
miles with 4 Fire Stations, Hall #1 - Porthill, Hall #2 - Hall Mountain, Hall #3 – Goodgrief,
& Hall #4 – Glenlily. There are currently 7 trucks and a fully equipped support vehicle.
This is a subscription Fire Department, which means: You have to subscribe yearly for
this service or pay the hourly charge-out rate if the HMVFD services are required on
your properties.
For further Information in the Yahk area contact: Bill Whitehouse (250) 424-5583
Glenlily Fire Station #4 Is located 5 km South of Yahk on Hwy 95
This is classified as a “911” area but it will only get you Ambulance and Police
To Report a FIRE call
424-5161
Hall Mountain Fire Association
2004 Membership Fees are now DUE;
These may be dropped off at the Kooteney Kafé in Yahk, BC or
sent to:
Hall Mountain Volunteer Fire Association, Inc.
Robin Young, Sec/Treasurer
Box 159
Eastport, Id. 83826
For further information regarding Membership Fees Telephone:
Canada - Debbie (250) 424-5583
USA – Robin (208) 267-2458
HMVFD news
Fire Chief ---Brad Lowther
Assistant Chief---Tom Hollis & Dallis Amoth
Training Officer--- Mike Young
New structure turnouts have been purchased through 2003 grant monies received from USA
Homeland Security/FEMA. New wild-lands turnouts were purchased from a USA Department of
Lands grant. Another grant has been approved to purchase a portable 350 GPM pump and a LCD
projector, portable projection screen, and laptop PC for training purposes.
A newer cab & chassis has been purchased and the fire apparatus from an older truck has been
installed on it, the primary use for this truck will be wild-land fires. This new truck is a short wheel
base 1989 Ford Diesel, L8000 equipped with a 1000 gal water tank and a 350-gpm pump.
The HMVFD requires more firefighters and are recruiting volunteers. Training & protective
equipment is provided. There are openings for both men and women.
For more information call Bill Whitehouse (250) 424-5583
Fire Notice: Evacuation Alert
Fire Notice: People are pre-warned about wildfire activity that may lead to an alert being put in
place.
Evacuation Alert: People are warned of imminent threat to life and property, and asked to be
ready to leave on short notice. Be prepared for worsening conditions.
Evacuation Order: People must leave the area immediately.
Evacuation Rescinded: Residents will be notified that they may return to their homes when the
danger has passed.
Office of the Fire
Commissioner
Ministry of
Community,
Aboriginal and Women’s Services
Telephone:
250-426-1272
PEP
Provincial Emergency
RCMP
Office of the Fire Commisioner of British Columbia
For Information in the Kootenay Region call:
1-800-311-7044
“When Activated”
There was a Yak in Yahk
….and a railway station and a sawmill and hotels and holiday camps, but there
has always been the forest and the flowers and the animals....
Welcome to Yahk...you'll want to come back!
Summer is here and the tourists have arrived! People have been coming to Yahk for years
to camp and relax in the bush or beside the Mighty Moyie. I have spoken to some residents
here. When asked why they came to live in Yahk, some have replied that their parents used
to vacation in the area or that they vacationed here and thought it a great place to retire.
Many tourists remind me just how beautiful it is here, and how lucky they think I am for
living here year round. I have to admit, that sometimes I do need to be reminded to get
down to the river’s edge and spend time being grateful and appreciating the gift being
presented to me.
My neighbours and I take the time to wander in our backyards and we identify the plants
that are flowering. Do you know that we have identified 39 different flowers, and the
season is not even over yet! A lot of these plants are medicinal as well as edible. The
Kootenay Indians did not have a Superstore to run to when they got hungry or sick.
Mother Nature was at their feet with all that they needed. Next time you find yourself in
the forest, look down and count how many different plants are at your feet. A really good
book to use to identify these plants is “Plants of Southern Interior British Columbia” by
Parish Coupe Lloyd.
Yahk has been a major trade and travel corridor since the turn of the century. There has
always been a place to rest here.
The Yahk Hotel was built in 1905 and provided a bar, dining room, pool room,
commissary and even a Post Office. The Hotel is still here and can still bring rest and
refreshment to weary travelers.
Beside it on Railway Avenue is the building that was known as the New Hotel. It was
built in 1924 on the ashes of the Commercial Hotel. The building stills stands, but has
become a private residence.
Then there were all the camps and restaurants. Allen’s Auto Camp was first built and run
by the Frank Allen’s in 1908. Their little log cabins nestled in amongst pines attracted
many tourists from all over.
The Auto Camp and the rustic cabins have been holiday home away from home for many
thousands of people. The cabins are still here, at the Hay U Ranch Resort.
In the 30’s, Sunset Auto Camp was built a few miles south of town. A few miles down the
road was the Pine Auto Camp. These businesses had cabins, stores and gas for people
coming to spend their holidays in Yahk. Right in town were Hopper’s Log Cabins, and at
Ryan were Charlie Beason’s cabins. The last of Hopper’s Cabins still stands across from
the school. At Irishman Creek was The Dine and Dance. Travelers kept coming back for
Midge’s chicken dinners and lemon pie.
Yahk even had a museum. It was built in the sixties and was known as the Pioneer
Museum. It is now a private home along the highway east of town..
The Sunset Auto Camp was rebuilt in the fifties and renamed Holiday Haven. There was
even a trout hatchery built and the restaurant specialized in Trout dinners. Fiddlers Attic
Antiques and the gas station at the junction are there now.
People still come here to holiday and relax. Last year I met a couple from Ontario. They
have driven out here to camp in the Yahk Provincial Park for sixteen years!
I have used Rita Dickson’s book, ‘Unforgettable Memories of Yahk’ and ‘Plants of S.E.
B.C. by Parish Coupe Lloyd for my information.
by Delta Fay Cruikshank
There was a Yak in Yahk….continued
This year I ran out of time and energy to plant my garden in the traditional ways, you know,
like with rows and no weeds. By the time I got my seeds together and my energy in tow, then
out to the plot, I noticed that Mother Nature had done a pretty good job of seeding. I did find
some surprises! I found Canby’s Lovage...The leaves taste a little like celery. Another was
Sharptoothed Angelica. Angelica is from the latin word for angel. Legend says that an
archangel presented it as a medicinal plant. Therefore it was believed to have healing powers.
Both likely ‘planted’ by a bird passing by. The ‘weeds’ in the veggie plot were cilantro,
calendula, dill and johnny jump ups that ‘volunteered’ from last year. All great additions to
the salad bowl or medicine chest. So, I just planted other seeds I had to fill in the gaps.
Delta Fay Cruickshank
The new dugouts are up! The Diamond was looking marvelous! We couldn’t have done it
without you.....a Big Thank You! to all the volunteers that participated and donated to
the cause. I think Rod is still driving in Circles.
This was a great community building experience.
Last week Kurt Hill, Joyce Johnson, Collin & Silka had a truck load of weeds, hand pulled
to continue the effort.
Thank You!
Peoples choice
“Alice” Jim Currier (1st page)
Stock Car
1st#44 Ron Shafer
2nd#43 Mason
3rd#50 Ken Boyd
Modified
#47 Charles
Classic Implement
Lynne Yaremkewich
Trucks
1st#45 Glen Wesche
2nd#41 Rod Yaremkewich
3rd#48 Bill Currier
www.yahkkingsgate.com or email ykwebsite@yahoo.ca
BIRTHDAY DRAW
A friend or family member included your name for the Birthday draw for $15 gift certificate at
participating merchants in Yahk Kingsgate area:
Donna Abney
Jenn Abney
Kat Banham
Joyce Beattie
Sandy Crawford
Mike Krysa
Daphne Cross
Marg Dent
Judy Dickson
Randy Foggin
Les Halvarson
Doreen Kisch
Sally Longo
Jocelyn Ludwar
Mary Martin
Terry Moore
Elaine Maisonneuve
Marcy Matheson
Millie McCartney
Debbie Milburn
John Milburn
Rigel Patterson
Mike (Spike) Stemplowski
Deb Whitehouse
Lynne Yaremkewich
Rod Yaremkewich
Emily Zeiler
& Rosie
This draw includes birthdays to September 30th, 2004. Let us know when your friend or family
member birthday is so we can include it in the next draw. Last WINNER drawn at our last general
meeting:
Congatulations... Pearl Brougham
WASTE MANAGEMENT
page 1 cont. ...The executive of the YK Rec. Society and the RDCK have come to a tentative agreement
for the proposed waste management. This will be presented to the people in the Yahk area at the
September 14, 2004 general meeting.
The Executive feel that this is a very good opportunity for the mortgage of the hall to be paid down
and the necessary repairs be funded through this venture with the RDCK. Pamphlets will be made
available on the waste management and recycling for this area. Recycling bins have been installed
on the community hall site and people are starting to use this service. The site has been kept very
clean. the executive committee encourages the townspeople to attend the
September 14th, 2004
meeting
to hear the proposal and vote to on this issue.
7:30 p.m. @ the Hall.
Bill Mawley President
Rod Yaremkewich Vice President
Monika Currier Secretary
Cathy Adams Treasurer
Lynne Yaremkewich Hall Bookings
Paul McCartney member at large
Don Russett member at large
For hall bookings call 424-5462 please leave message
Board members can be contacted through the WEBSITE: www.yahkkingsgate.com
BOARD OF DIRECTORS
CLASSIFIED ADS
FOR SALE
Old Fashioned Wood Stove, working. $350.00 firm
424-5039
FOR SALE by OWNER
HOBBY FARM
!!!!!! RIVER FRONT !!!!!!
5.19 Acres
main Floor 1444 sq ft
4 bedrooms
3 baths
ASKING $198,500.00
PH: (250) 424-5512
leave a message
8250 Highway 95 S
Yahk, BC
www.yahkkingsgate.com or email ykwebsite@yahoo.ca
next deadline... October 15th
We will be working hard to showcase our community:
If you have any stories or pictures to share please contact :
Our 3rd Annual Fall Fair was a nice success even though the weather didn’t co-operate until later in the day. We still had a lot of people who came out to support it and who participated in it.
We had 109 entries in various categories. We had some new
categories this year and it was nice to see some entries in them.
This year saw some newcomers to our community center. This was very nice to see and we encourage them and others to attend other events.
Our friends in Kitchener
supported us with their entries as well as some ladies came out and
participated in the Flea Market. It would be nice to see a few more locals enter, as we all know we have some very talented people in our community, as well as some great gardeners.
Hopefully next year we will see some more entries from these people. Don’t be modest!!
Our vegetable, canning and
baking sections had lots of beautiful entries. Our craft section fruit and
flowers were down this year, but what we had was wonderful! Our
photography, painting and drawing was very nice, but again only a few entries. Wood working was down and I know we have a lot of wood workers out there.
I would like to thank all those people who took the time and pride to enter what they had, please keep it up, without you we wouldn’t have a Fair.
Grizzly Basin Ranch hosts Rheinland Pfalz Saar Int’l inspection
The Rheinland Pfalz Saar International is a German Warmblood horse Verband (association). As all European Warmblood breeds, the name comes from the area where the horses were
developed. In this case, the Rheinland Pfalz Saar, comes from the area along the Rhine River in Germany, known as the Rheinland Pfalz. In the nearby Saar area is where the “Zweibrucken” ( two bridges) are located, and this is where the
Verband gets its logo from. The
Verband works with breeders to develop top sport horses, and helps with training and marketing as well as the most important responsibility, evaluation of stock .
The Verband sends out
inspectors to host sites, to do this. At the host sites breeders gather from the surrounding area and present their horses in an “in hand” fashion. The horses are shown in a halter, for youngsters, older horses in a bridle, on a “dressage horse in hand triangle”. Basically, the horse is walked on a triangle pattern, and then shown at liberty. The inspector evaluates the horse’s conformation, and then it’s movement at the walk, trot, and canter.
As Rheinland Pfalz Saar horses began gaining popularity in the US. It became necessary to organize inspections there. The
Verband began it’s international office in Riverside California and the Rheinland Pfalz Saar International (RPSI) took off!
About 10 years ago there were inspections in a few states. This year, almost every state has a host site, and the inspection tour takes about 6 weeks.
The inspector, Herr Otto Schalter, comes directly from
Germany. He usually flies into Dallas and begins the tour, covering the south then eastern States and works his way West.
This year was extra special. Not only was the president of the RPSI , Herr Karl Heinz Bange, on tour with Herr Schalter, but Canada had it’s first host site!! The first Canadian host site on the list was, no other, than Grizzly Basin Ranch in Yahk British Columbia.
On September 17th 2004, the RPSI group arrived to a rainy Canada. Nine horses of various ages were
presented. Not only did we have
several foals, but the mares of the foals were also entered into the stud books, as were a couple of yearlings. The weanlings and mares were scored, and all did very well.
The medals are given in regards to scores. All the medals were covered, with the three foals that were
presented. Grizzly Basin Ranch’s own GBR Prism by the stallion Fi’s Tuxedo scored high enough to achieve the all elusive and rare Gold Medal. Gin Fiz, Owned by Sonja Walker by the stallion Gatsby, achieved a Silver Medal and GBR Eclipse, by the stallion Fi’s Tuxedo achieved a Bronze Medal.
Grizzly Basin Ranch is hoping to make this inspection an
annual event.
For more information or any requirements contact :
Monika Currier 250-424-5200.
Other reference sources are
www.grizzlybasinranch.com
www.rhpsi.com
www.pferdezucht-rps.de
Thank you Laurie for the photos
Some goals the school has set for the year are to
purchase a new digital
camera and a new DVD/VCR for the school.
Tom Gibson for your help with the weed problem at the ball diamond.
BOARD OF DIRECTORS
Bill Mawley President
Rod Yaremkewich Vice President
Cathy Adams Treasurer/secretary
Lynne Yaremkewichmember at large
Don Russett member at large
Lori Chamberlain member at large
Paul McCartney Hall Bookings
For hall bookings call 424-5462
please leave message
Board members can also be contacted through
the WEBSITE: www.yahkkingsgate.com
Yahk Kingsgate Recreation Society
Contact information:
Box 13, Yahk B.C. V0B 2P0
424-5462
Al Skucas and his colleague spoke at the general meeting about the Trans Canada Trail Trails BC.
They represent the Rockies/East Kootney Region Council.
Trails BC, also known officially as the Trails Society of BC, is a non-profit registered society (1995) under the Provincial Societies Act. Trails BC became a Registered Charity effective December 1st, 1996, and can issue Income Tax receipts for donations. The mandate is to "facilitate the development of shared use and sustainable trail networks, including the Trans Canada Trail, within British Columbia".
Trails BC has been designated by the Trans Canada Trail Foundation to facilitate the development of the Trans Canada Trail in BC.
Immediate goals are:
To gather public support for our efforts to build and manage trails.
To build a local community-based membership of trail-minded individuals and groups.
To promote a provincial trail network and to record existing trail routes throughout BC.
Achievements include:
The development of about 40% of the Trans Canada Trail in BC (southern route), and the registration of 53% of the trail with the Trans Canada Trail Foundation, as of January 2000.
Amendments to provincial legislation, increasing opportunities for the general public to have recreational access to private and leased lands.
Advocacy work with the Land Use Coordination Office, resulting in government recognition of the need for a province-wide trail strategy.
For more information
www.tctrails.ca
ELECTIONS
This December we will be having our
ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING
We will be voting on By-Law changes and having
elections for the Board. This is also the time to join committees such as the Communications (Newsletter/Website) etc. Please attend. Watch for meeting date!
-------------------
The lone applicant Bill Mawley received the Waste Management position. He will be at site (TBA) Wednesday and Saturday Hours (TBA).
-------------------
A Waste Management Committee
consisting of Bill Mawley, Paul McCartney , and Bill Currier was formed to address concerns of the garbage and placement of bins.
-----------------------
Proposed BY-LAW CHANGES will be voted on at the Decembers Annual General Meeting. The Board will be making these changes
available to you.
---------------------
It is important for the membership to vote on the By-Law changes and participate in the elections.
--------------------
Lori Chamberlain has filled the vacant position that was created when Monika Currier resigned.
BINGO
CARPET BOWLING
NEXT
GENERAL
MEETING
7 PM
NOV. 9TH,
Interested in forming a
CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
IN OUR AREA?
CALL
424-5166
BIRTHDAY DRAW
A friend or family member included your name for the Birthday draw for $15 gift certificate at participating merchants in Yahk Kingsgate area:
Kenny Boyd
Bill Hollis
Bob Hollis
Tom Hollis
Paul McCartney
Louise N’Ha Ruby
Dorothy Spicer
Tre Ann Wyler
This draw includes birthdays to December 31th, 2004. Let us know when your friend or family members birthday is so we can include it in the next draw.
Lazlo Patko October 16th
Agatha (Gertie) Hollis
October 8th
...You will be missed
Thank you
MOUNTAIN MIST LADIES
The Yahk Kingsgate Recreation Society would like to thank the Mountain Mist ladies, for their very generous donation of their coffee urn, various take out dishes, napkins, aluminum foil, stretch wrap, craft supplies, misc. other items and plastic tubs with lids to the Hall. This donation was greatly appreciated.
We would also like to thank them for their cheque of Five hundred and thirteen dollars to go towards our Newsletter. Thank you Ladies! We are sorry to see that you have found it necessary to disband.
RDCK - JOHN KETTLE
We would also like to thank the RDCK and John Kettle for the Grant in Aid cheque of one thousand dollars to help out with our Website and our Fall Fair. This was greatly appreciated!
Submitted by Board member Cathy Ad
.
HALLOWEEN PARTY
SUNDAY, OCTOBER 31ST
Hall Mountain Volunteer Fire Department
Is having their annual or angoooal
Halloween Howl
CLASSIFIED ADS
1996 Ford F150. 147,000km, tonneau cover, complete with 4 mounted snow tires in addition to regular rims and tires. $9000
250-424-5488
FOR SALE
by OWNER
HOBBY FARM
!!!!!! RIVER FRONT !!!!!!
5.19 Acres
main Floor 1444 sq ft
4 bedrooms
3 baths
ASKING $198,500.00
PH: (250) 424-5512
leave a message
8250 Highway 95 S
Yahk, BC
Children’s
Christmas Party
Christmas will soon be here and once again we will be raising funds for the Yahk Kingsgate Children’s Christmas Party. This will be funded by donation Jars placed around the community. Extra monies go into a special account for Bursary funding for Graduates of Yahk Kingsgate area. Watch for poster on times and dates of Concert and Party.
WELCOME
TO ALL THE NEW FOLKS IN OUR AREA
Please don’t
hesitate to contact the Board of
Directors or the communications committee with any
inquiries you may have. We would be happy to help or we will point you in the right directio
We will be working hard to showcase our community:
If you have any stories or pictures to share please contact :
Penny ap Anderson 424-5596
Delta Fay Cruickshank 424-5115
Monika Currier 424-5200
Marcy Matheson 424-5597
www.yahkkingsgate.com or email ykwebsite@yahoo.ca next deadline... DEC 2004
Fall Edition 2004
School Christmas Concert
The school would like to thank everyone who attended the concert. They would also like to thank Trans Canada Pipeline for the Donation of $1000 that was used to
purchase a TV and DVD/VCR combo and to help update the schools resource centre.
Winter Edition 2005
Trans Canada Pipeline Donation
We would also like to thank Trans Canada Pipeline for their generous donation to the Hall. This was greatly appreciated!
Thank you to the out going Board members...
Cathy Adams; we couldn’t have done the events without you. From the Raft Race to engineering the Fall Fair, plus the Immense help with the Craft Fair, not to mention all your duties as Treasurer of the Board!
Bill Mawley; our president was instrumental this year getting what we needed...You may have noticed the changes in the Hall...New Curtains, noise Baffling, and a sound system!
Lynne Yaremkewich; Hall rentals, Raft Race, benefits and helping where needed.
The spirit, cooperation and the best interests of our community were portrayed by these folks and their dedication is appreciated. We also would like to thank the volunteers at the School and throughout the community. Help keep it strong!. THANK YOU...
www.yahkkingsgate.com or email ykwebsite@yahoo.ca
Photo by Marlene & Mike Mitchell
Yahk Elementary School
Contacts :
Teacher - Linda Allred
Principal - Joanne Wilson
Phone: (250)424-5585
Fax: (250)424-5220
E-mail: yahk@sd8.bc.ca
! FAMILY FUN NIGHT !
Anyone interested in Volleyball? Shuffle Board? Or other activities that the community can join in… contact Bill Mawley at 424-5489
Monika Currier
In the fall of 2001, a lone Canada goose flew round and round, honking repeatedly over our farm. I starting talking to it, telling it that there was no water around here and she’d have to look elsewhere. The goose promptly landed about 20 feet from me. It didn’t seem hurt or anything, and it allowed me to approach it.
I had some grain with me and made the Cardinal error of
feeding this wild animal. She
tentatively approached me and began eating from my hand. I left her with a pile of grain and water, and tried to walk home. Our house is about a half-kilometer from the barns and as I walked the goose started to follow, honking loudly. When I got too far away, she flew to catch up with me.
Afraid that she would get hurt as she continued to follow me along the hiway, I attempted to catch the goose. She wasn’t
terribly happy about it, but then settled down to cuddle my neck as I carried the 40-pound bird to my house.
Upon arrival, I set the goose down in the porch, and she proceeded into the main house checking things out, chasing the cat etc. I scooped her up again, and confined her to the porch.
Local Conservation officers, though thinking it was cute,
reminded me that I couldn’t confine this wild animal, but also, Canada Geese were not protected or endangered, so I should just shoo her away.
Easier said than done.
“Goosey” faired quite well her first winter with us. She hung out with the horses and followed me everywhere. She finally learned that the barns were where she should stay, if she was going to stay. She did freeze a toe that first winter, and so, on really cold nights, I would put her in a heated shed with a bed of straw. She seemed indignant at being coddled, but it was for her own good.
She was very protective of me and followed me on horse rides, flying around and dropping down in front of the horses, trying to make them stop. I figure she thought it was far too dangerous, and I should get off.
There was no fear that a coyote or dog would get her, as she was very, very aggressive. Some visitors also, found
themselves at the unfriendly end of “Goosey” on several
occasions.
Over the winter of 2003/2004, Goosey had attached himself to one of our older geldings. Goosey attached himself to various
individuals at different times. We sold that gelding in the spring of 2004 and Goosey, just wasn’t himself after Jarazab left. He started flying around the area, almost as if to look for the horse.
Each spring, a pair of geese would come to visit Goosey. The first couple of springs, Goosey tried to chase the geese away. The spring of 2004, Goosey was a
little friendlier to the pair. (Goosey was bigger than the one goose of the pair, so we assume She was a He) When other geese flew overhead, Goosey would twist to look skyward, but stayed
absolutely silent.
Over the winter of 2003/2004, Goosey had attached himself to one of our older geldings. Goosey attached himself to various
individuals at different times. We sold that gelding in the spring of 2004 and Goosey, just wasn’t himself after Jarazab left. He started flying around the area, almost as if to look for the horse.
Goosey left the farm for extended periods. He never did that in the three years he lived with us. People thought Goosey didn’t fly, but he did!
I spotted him over at Ralph Spicer’s, and then at Sandy Staneland’s. I also heard stories of a Canada goose
terrorizing the Dickson’s on the flats. That could only have been Goosey.
Goosey had been gone for several weeks about the time the rain was coming down in buckets and I had to move the horses out of the meadow pasture, below the barns on Raft Race Weekend in June of 2004. The field had filled with water and there were about a dozen Canada geese wading about.
As I approached, all the geese eased away from me. That is, all but one. There was no mistaking Goosey. He gave me a confident sideways look, and I muttered to him as I always did.
That was the last time I ever saw him. I half expected Goosey to return to spend the winter, but he hasn’t. For three years this wild Canada goose, chose to stay with us. We never forced him to stay, and though I miss Goosey, I can only hope he’s happy wherever he might be. Good Luck Goosey!
Good Luck Goosey
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We are a private group of 22 Monaco motor homes on a journey to the Calgary Stampede together. We would like to stop over nite on June 30th 2005. We need 1 to 2 acres of flat hard surface area to park our Motor homes. We would arrive about 1Pm. and depart the next morning about 10am. We are all retired persons enjoying life to it's fullest. Most folks would enjoy eating out. if you can accommodate us. If there are things to do and see in your area we would be interested. 22 motor homes is 44 persons. Think of these as being 22 Greyhound buses with a tow car behind each. We are excited to hear from you. Please E-mail djexecl@earthlink.net Thank you, Dan Ross
Can Anyone Help ???
www.yahkkingsgate.com or email ykwebsite@yahoo.ca
page 2
I woke this morning with a headache. Could be the barometric pressure change, could be I slept in an awkward angle and my neck is out of alignment or whatever happens there. Do I rush to the medicine cabinet and take an aspirin or do I try something else? I know that if I take aspirin, I will have an upset stomach for the rest of the day. Today I have tried something different. I have added a few drops of lavender essential oil to vegetable oil and have slowly massaged this scented oil onto my temples, along my sinuses, under my eyes and on my neck. The massage has soothed me, it is a good thing to spend time with oneself, taking care of yourself, and giving myself the time I need, rather than popping a pill and rushing out the door. This headache is to let me know that something is not right with my body, and it needs the time to heal. And you know what, I am beginning to feel a lot better. As I write this, the headache is still there, but it is
Interested in forming a
CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
IN OUR AREA?
CALL
424-5166
No matter who you are or what your life story is all about, learning to think of yourself with warmth, generosity and nurturance will add a huge measure of abundance and joy to your life and to the lives of those you touch.
Take the
Thyme for Rosemary
Drawing by Delta Fay Cruikshank
gradually receding to the back of my head, I am feeling almost invigorated and my energy is returning. This works!
I like the idea of knowing more about what I am using to help my body heal itself. My headache is almost gone now. It was
lavender that helped me to feel better. And I know what lavender is. It grows in my garden; I walk past it every day. I use it in bouquets, I use it in shortbread, and I use it in soap. Lavender derives its name from the Latin lavare, to wash. The Romans and Greeks used it in their bath waters; to smell of lavender was a mark of wealth and elegance. It was also thought to help relieve one from being sore and stiff and fatigue. John Gerard, a
herbalist in the 1600’s prescribed lavender for A light migraine or swimming of the brain. It is used by herbalists to ease headaches, soothe tense muscles, treating halitosis, and to soothe upset babies with colic and irritability. It is also used as an insect repellent; hence the lavender scented linen closets from the Victorian era. In the language of flowers, lavender
symbolizes devotion, success and soothes the trembling and passions of the heart. I have grown lavender successfully Yahk. It is a native of the Mediterranean, so bear that in mind when you look for a spot in the garden. It likes an open sunny spot with good
drainage. It is hardy to B30 degrees.
I encourage you to read more and get a good understanding of lavender and any other herb that you wish to grow and to use, medicinally or otherwise. Like
anything, too much of anything can be toxic and harmful, be informed before you dive into treating yourself or your family. I believe that by just having the useful herbs in my garden, working and
enjoying their properties, their essences are beneficial to me.
Now is the time of year the gardens need a rest. Protect against freezing and thawing with mulches, don’t get too neat, as the stalks etc. will help to trap snow, which will protect the plants against winter. Plan on doing some
designing and trying to grow some herbs, if for nothing else, just as a beautiful plant that encourages the bees and friendly bugs to come to your garden.
Until next time remember, ‘The goal of life is living in agreement with nature.
’ Zeno 335-263 B.C.
The best quality oils are extracted from the L.angustifolia and L.stoechas. Here I have grown Lady Lavender and Munstead variety. I pick the flower spikes just as the flowers are opening. Pick them in the morning, after the morning dew has dried, but before the hot sun comes out. Hang bundles upside down in a dry, dark place. When they are
thoroughly dry and the flowers are dropping,
remove the flowers from the stalk and keep them in a jar in a cool, dark place. Save the stalks, as they are scented as well. Do not be surprised if you find yourself quite drowsy whilst working with your harvest.
www.yahkkingsgate.com or email ykwebsite@yahoo.ca
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Winter 2005
FALL EDITION 2004
Year End Trip
TIPI CAMP on Kootney Lake
Halloween Party! ...At the FireHall............>
(continued from page 1)
FALL FAIR
I would like to thank the Hay U Country Kitchen, Kootenay Kafe, and Judy Dickson for the delicious donations of pots of chili and borsch. A big thank you to Kathy Muhlbach for the wonderful pies she made and donated for the Fair. Any donation of food that I may have missed, I say thank you to the generosity of those who donated.
A big thank you to Millie McCartney and her volunteers who did such a great job in the kitchen. A big thank you to Elizabeth Cotton who helped in so many ways. Without Joyce Johnson’s guidance, help and encouragement this Fair would not have happened. Thank you Joyce! Rod Yaremkewich was the man behind the scene responsible for designing our Fall Fair Booklets and getting them ready to go to the printers. Thanks Rod, a great job! Thanks goes to Pirjo mawley for her lovely display of dolls throughout the Fair. Thanks to Paul McCartney and Donald Dalton for your help whenever we needed something done on the spur of the moment.
Our judges did an excellent job on their judging. Some of these people were asked at the last minute due to cancellations. A big thank you to Morris Greenhouse, Sunset Seed and Cresteramics, all of Creston, for the donation of door prizes. First was won by Doreen Kisch, 2nd Elizabeth Cotton, 3rd Angela Mitchell. Thank you all!
We realized a nice profit from our Fall Fair and would like to thank everyone who supported us and helped us in any way. We hope to see you all again next year the Annual Yahk Kingsgate Fall
Fall Fair Coordinator Cathy Adams
spring 2005
Spring 2005
Seniors’ Activities in Yahk-Kingsgate
For the most part, we’ve had a great winter. The weather has been remarkably mild—almost too mild, if we concern ourselves about summer water shortages and forest fires. We, Seniors, have enjoyed several pleasant social occasions. Our Christmas party was one that we all enjoyed. There was a wide variety of excellent food, and an exchange of gifts. Those who prepared the hall and the food really outdid themselves. The décor added a festive ambiance to the occasion.
Our Valentine lunch was similarly outstanding. We enjoyed a special lunch (very few of our lunches are ordinary), followed by ice cream with a homemade strawberry topping. The exchange of valentine cards between members seemed to bring to mind how caring and important we all are to each other.
In January, (or was it February?) we came up with the idea of forming a drama group. We would welcome anybody from the community, but so far, it is composed entirely of seniors. We are rehearsing a couple of plays, working on costumes, and stage props and practicing our lines at every opportunity. We had hoped to stage a performance of the plays this spring, but time flies by so fast…
Even now, past the equinox, the enthusiasm our group remains high. Some are stage hands, lights and curtain managers, costume designers and prop builders. Those not actually on stage serve as audience members while the actors rehearse, providing feedback about clarity and projection of voice, and movement patterns about the stage. After all the rehearsals they have seen, it is surprising to see the persisting grins on their faces. It looks like we have selected good plays.
Not all of our members are interested in drama. We still have carpet bowling as our main activity, and card and board games for others. In preparation for our bowling tournament with Cranbrook in May, we are getting in all the practice sessions we can. Our association is quite small, compared to those in larger towns, but there is a warmth and camaraderie in our group that is valuable. We have come to feel like family members and we enjoy getting together. If there were more of us, it would make it possible to participate in even more activities. We know there are more seniors in our area whom we would like to have in our association. If you think you might like to join us (even on a visitor basis) drop in on any Wednesday afternoon at 1:00 pm or call Jeff at 424-5118. If you are only interested in the Drama Group, call Jeff or drop in at 1:00 pm on Fridays. Lee Rose
Spring Craft Sale
The Craft and Bake Sale on April 2nd welcomed 22 Crafters. Some local; others from Creston, Arrow Creek, Kitchener, Cranbrook and Kimberly. Soup, sandwiches and Desserts were enjoyed by all the workers, donors of food and door prizes and all who came out.
When an outage occurs, homeowners should disconnect or turn off as many appliances as possible—especially those which draw heavy loads of current. When an entire area is to be re-energized, it puts a great load on that part of the grid. When a sudden load (like having everybody’s appliances turn on at once) is placed on a local area line, there is a drop in voltage. This can be damaging to appliances, and may cause another outage almost immediately. Hydro takes measures to prevent having the entire area re-energized at once, by throwing switches in succession, but it is wise for the homeowner to follow a similar procedure.
1.Leave a small number of lights turned on, so as to alert you to the restoration of power.
2.Disconnect (or turn off) large appliances, such as well pumps, electric hot water heaters, electric space heaters, ovens, large motors, etc.
3.After power has returned, wait for a few minutes before beginning to turn appliances on. This will give the grid time to stabilize.
4.Computerized appliances are particularly susceptible to power or voltage fluctuations. It is wise to wait until there has been time for the grid to stabilize before turning such items back on.
5.Large motors may draw 2 or 3 times as much current to start than they do to run. Starting several at once will put a larger than usual load on their circuits.
6.Avoid approaching the vicinity of fallen power lines. Such a line might be carrying sufficient voltage to cause injury to persons walking close, just by the current flowing into the surrounding surface of the earth (even without touching the wire).
Area B Regional District Director John Kettle say's it is a GO on the Fire Protection Referendum!
The Provincial Government released the RDCK by-laws establishing the taxation and service area for a new Yahk Kingsgate Fire Protection area. Director Kettle noted, "This has been an extremely frustrating exercise from the start. We have now dotted all of the i's and crossed the t's and it's time to give the people of the Yahk Kingsgate area the democratic right to vote. We have met as a Regional District the parameters set out for us by the province and now we need to get on with providing fire protection for the people. Because of the delay , we are now looking at September 17th, 2005 date for the referendum. This time schedule meets the guidelines set out by the province and we will meet those guidelines."
For more information contact John Kettle Director Area "B" of the RDCK
Phone: 428-5560 or e-mail: jrkettlejgalt@shaw.ca
RDCK UPDATES:
WHAT IS HAPPENING AT THE SCALES?
3.1 million dollars is being spent as part of a Federal Provincial Infrastructure Program. This enhancement will accommodate any future increase in traffic from the United States if the Kingsgate port is deemed a "super port" by the Americans.The Ministry of Highways project Supervisor is very happy with the progress of the facility. It may also help us get a new Tourism booth for travelers coming into Canada.
GRANTS HELPING AREA "B"
We received a "grant in aid" of $1000 for Clean-up in our community. These are descretionary funds that our Regional Director, John Kettle, also gave to the Friends of Kitchener Community Clean-up and the Canyon Hall Community Clean up.
RDCK COLUMBIA TRUST
is a regional initiative whereby monies are allocated to AreaB and John Kettle our Director works with a public group to receive and distribute the grant monies throughout the area. This year Area B gave out approx $40,000 in CBT grants in our area." I want to thank all of the volunteers and organizations who work so hard to make our area better. I look forward to continuing this relationship for the future and sincerely thank Columbia Basin Trust for the Community Initiatives Program that allows us as Directors to work hand in glove with our communities".
The RDCK has funded $4650.00 toward the project through a grant from the Columbia Basin Trust. Thank You and Bon appettite
$4650.00 received for OUTDOOR KITCHEN!
9:00 am SATURDAY August 6TH 2005
OUTDOOR KITCHEN REPAIRS & WORK BEE
Please join community members as we clean up the grounds around the community hall and do repairs to the outdoor kitchen. For more information contact: Bill Currier at 424-5452
Summer is here !!!!!
Pictures courtesy of penny ap anderson
ELECTOR QUALIFICATIONS
RESIDENT ELECTORS:
- age 18 or older; and
- a Canadian citizen; and
- a resident of British Columbia for at least 6 months immediately preceding the day of registration; and
- a resident of the proposed service area of the Regional District of Central Kootenay for at least 30 days immediately preceding the day of registration; and
not disqualified by any enactment from voting in an election or otherwise disqualified by law.
NON-RESIDENT PROPERTY ELECTORS:
- age 18 or older; and
- a Canadian citizen; and
- a resident of British Columbia for at least 6 months immediately preceding the day of registration; and
- a registered owner of real property in the proposed service area of the Regional District of Central Kootenay for at least 30 days immediately preceding the day of registration; and
- the only persons who are registered owners of the real property, either as joint tenants or tenants in common, are individuals who are not holding the property in trust for a corporation or another trust; and
- not entitled to register as a resident elector; and
- not disqualified by any enactment from voting in an election or otherwise disqualified by law; and
- if there is more than one registered owner of the property, only one of those individuals may, with the written consent of the majority of the owners, register as a non-resident property elector.
These rules are set by the provincial government under the Local Government Act.
The Regional District will be advertising in August which will indicate how to register as an elector in advance of the vote as well as the day of the vote.
Look for more stories by going to the home page click on newsletter summer 2005...
Disclaimer: All article are provided by community members. They are the opinions of the writers. No editing has been performed.
Archives
FALL 2005
Storms Don’t Last—Do They, Darling?
by R. Lee Rose
It has become a tradition, here in Yahk-and a darn good one, too. Every year, in late summer, Ken Boyd makes an open invitation to people in the area to a musical pot-luck party at his house. To avoid conflicts with other activities, he chose August 23rd this year, and at about 1:30 pm, cars and RV’s started filling up the space in the spacious lawn east of his house. Everything was trimmed, mowed and tidied up like a school marm’s parlor. Lawn chairs began to appear in the shady recesses beneath the cotton woods where the bright rays of the sun were reduced to mottled patterns of filtered sunlight. Cool drinks, introductions and good friends re-met, activated the social atmosphere, and soon everybody was involved. Meanwhile, casseroles and covered plates of food, in addition to the cakes and fresh-baked pies, accumulated in the room at the back of the carport.
It was a beautiful sunny day, and before long, the instruments resting in their stands along the left side of the covered area were taken up by the musicians Ken had invited to take part in the festivities. The first song was played and sung by Kauno Kattelus. Hardly had the applause died away before Lyle Draper sang another, and from that point on, the music didn’t stop for over two hours. Ken scattered dry straw over the asphalt to make it smoother for dancing. The hint was well taken, and soon dancers were whirling around the floor—some sedately, and some boisterously—but all enjoyably.
The musicians played as if they had practiced together for ages, smoothly taking “breaks” in the performance, adding runs and rich harmonies in a most professional way. In addition to Kauno and Lyle, both of whom played acoustic guitars, Gordon Stewart sang a fine assortment of good country songs, accompanying himself quite masterfully on his electric guitar. Cal Beebe played rhythm banjo and mandolin as well as acoustic guitar. He also sang several songs in a voice reminiscent of Hank Snow’s. Later on, he did a couple of very colourful yodeling songs. Hedley Lewis’s collection of double-noted harmonicas added a beautiful quality to the music, and as unlikely as it may sound, he even played and sang one number.
One of the key players was Roy Bredly who played his fiddle in a real “down-home” style that warmed the hearts of us all. After a little urging, Myrt Draper joined Lyle in several selections, adding her rich harmony to his mellow voice. Later on, Cal Beebe switched to a mandolin, and Allan Midtdal sat in with his four-string banjo. His wife, Wendy, skillfully rounded out the tones with her accordion, and the involvement of the audience just got more and more enthusiastic.
Sometime during the afternoon, the bright sunny day, changed to a thunder storm, and the lawn chairs moved under the roof, but the festivities were unaffected. Kauno sang “Storms Never Last--Do They, Darling?” and we all carried on. Neither the music nor the dancing ever stopped until it was time to eat. If anything, the closer seating just brought the crowd together, both in proximity and mood. We clapped for the music, laughed until our sides hurt and danced up our appetites.
There was no lack of food or drink. The two coffee makers were charged and waiting, and vegetable plates, and salads complemented the steaming dishes. The desserts were delicious.
After eating, the tables were removed, and the music and dancing resumed. Towards the end of the evening, we all sang “For He’s a Jolly Good Fellow” to Ken, and he, in his shy, almost boyish voice, said, “Well, if it hadn’t been for you people coming, there wouldn’t have been much of a party.”
That’s odd. We thought he was the one who made it all happen. And we were glad he did. What a fine tradition he has fostered! We can’t wait until he does it all again, next year. Thanks, Ken!
