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Date: Oct 31, 2009

Entry: Every year, we look forward to the Halloween Bonfire and Fireworks sponsored by the Armstrong Spallumcheen Fire Department. We just came back from this years event - and these volunteers outdid themselves! The bonfire was great - enough to keep the large crowd warm and the firemen handed out free hot chocolate and hotdogs to those attending. After a bit of waiting, the display we were all waiting for started - and what a display it was! Everytime the crowd thought the finale had happened, another round of fireworks went off - each one better than the last. The crowd oohed and ahhed - and cheered. What a great community event - parents with their little ones in costume, teens with their friends and family, and seniors - all looking towards the night sky anticipating the next boom and explosion! Thank you Firefighters - once again, you have given our community a night to remember!

Community Bonfire & Fireworks

Date: Oct 31, 2009

Entry: While most of Western Canada suffered in the grip of a record-breaking heat wave, more than 100 Reining and Working Cow Horse enthusiasts donned their straw hats and sunscreen, and set out for Armstrong. They knew that the competition would be as hot as the sun’s rays from above, but 14 Championship buckles and over $21,000 in cash and prizes were up for the taking, and no one wanted to be left in the dust. Warm-up classes on Thursday afternoon allowed riders the opportunity to prepare their horses for the full slate of NRHA and NRCHA classes on offer over the next three days. New for 2009 was show approval with National Reined Cow Horse Assn (NRCHA), as well as the American Quarter Horse Assn (AQHA), giving competitors the opportunity to earn qualifying points towards the respective World Championship shows, as well as recorded lifetime points and earnings. Strategically interspersed among the intensity of the competition were several interesting perks, including The Oasis, a gathering place for competitors to sit and relax, and enjoy a complimentary cup of coffee, a homemade muffin, or a refreshing beverage. The Oasis was the place to be late Friday afternoon, when Diana’s Monogramming generously provided complimentary Bratwurst and Beer to all competitors, and again on Saturday for the Ranch style dinner. But the excitement was tantamount to the buzz over at the show arena mid Sunday morning, when 41 eager Deal Or No Deal envelope holders gathered to learn their fortune. World Champion auctioneer Don Raffan was on hand to auction one last envelope – a Wild Card – available to anyone on the grounds who could secure the final bid. And then the opening of the envelopes. First a miscue by an over zealous envelope holder, then finally, after reading the fine print, Carmen Teixeira, from Canoe, BC and current RITS Show chair, realized she was the lucky holder of the Deal Or No Deal envelope proclaiming her to be the winner of tickets for two to the NRHA Futurity in Oklahoma City! As the sun set over the hazy hills at the Armstrong Fairgrounds, it was determined that over the course of 3 ½ days, 379 runs had been scored, countless friendships had been renewed, and an indeterminate amount of fun had been had. The Show Committee is already hard at work, planning for the 2010 edition of Reinin’ In The Sun.

Reinin’ In The Sun

Date: Oct 31, 2009

Entry: With the increase in the cost of fuel, community members becoming more aware of their environment, and a desire for uncrowded highways, several members of the community have been carpooling. Using www.carpoolworld.com residents can register to let others know they are either looking for a ride or willing to provide one. This is handy for students and those commuting to work in neighbouring communities. Way to go carpoolers!!!

Residents utilizing Carpool Opportunities

Date: Oct 30, 2009

Entry: For most of the year, the skateboard park in Armstrong is used constantly. Skaters 8 - 30 have used the park since it was built in 2001. The park is 1045 square meters and features slopes to accomodate all levels of skate ability. Various skate events are held here, and you will find residents stopping by to see the skaters in action. A great addition to our community - built with funds raised by local youth and service organizations.

Getting Air!!

Date: Oct 30, 2009

Entry: Your time to be part of Olympic History.

The City of Armstrong and the Township of Spallumcheen are very excited to announce that the 2010 Olympic Games Torch Run will be coming to Armstrong/Spallumcheen on January 26th, 2010. Yes, the actual Olympic Torch will be carried through our communities (on a route soon to be confirmed) and local torch bearers will be included. It is a very exciting time in our community and you and your family are going to be an important part of the moment. The Armstrong/Spallumcheen Olympic Relay Community Celebration Committee, under the Co-Chairs of Councillor Shirley Fowler and Councillor Janice Brown, is actively working with a diverse group from our communities to ensure that there is a huge crowd out to cheer on the Torch Bearers and that the Community Celebration planned for after the Torch departs, is as open and inclusive and fun filled as it can be. The celebrations will be colour coded to the five colours of the Olympic Rings (red, green, yellow, blue and black) and it is hoped that you will choose your colour and come out and participate. The entire Run will be videoed and played at the Nor-Val Centre (our official Olympic Live Site) that night – come be part of our communities history. More information will be available soon via our Schools and the web sites of the Township and the City. If you are interested in being involved don’t hesitate to call either the Township Hall or City Hall

Getting ready to Cheer on the 2010 Olympic Torch Relay Run through Armstrong

Date: Oct 30, 2009

Entry: Hi everyone - well, I must say my journey was quick and painless with Canada Post! I arrived at Pitt Meadows Elementary School yesterday. I have to say - those 4/5 students were really excited and so welcoming! They have already has given me a Pitt Meadows pin for my hat. And best of all - I have had lots of hugs! Ms.Seko says that the class will wait until 'Armstrong Day' to put on the Armstrong pins and they are excited to use cheese that has come from Armstrong - they thought that was a nice touch Mayor Pieper. Oh, and Megan - the picture of you and I, along with the letter from the City Council and the Chamber of Comerce are already proudly displayed on our hall window. The students and Ms. Seko say I can't come back before I eat a healthly lunch with them a feast of salad and grilled cheese sandwiches. And the class is going to take me on a tour of the school and take some pictures of our group. They have even made plans to take me to Pitt Meadows City Hall! I am going to have so much to report to City Council about when I get home. I sure hope some of my new friends come to visit us. That's it for now - I will write again next week.

An update from our Bear Ambassador!

Date: Oct 30, 2009

Entry: As a Kootenay International Junior Hockey League expansion franchise this season, the North Okanagan Knights have their foot through the door of Junior B hockey. Now, they’re trying to get more feet through the door at Armstrong’s Nor-Val Sports Centre. “Our goal right now is to increase the profile of the team around town,” said Knights general manager Bill Greene. “A lot of (promotion is done by) word of mouth.”
So far, the crowds at Knights games have been steady but the team’s brass is always trying for more. Greene believes once people see the calibre of hockey on display, they’ll be hooked. “It’s good family entertainment. It’s not expensive (tickets are $9 for adults, $7 for seniors and $5 for children) and people don’t have to go to Vernon to see good hockey. All in all, it’s a good product.” The team has developed a relationship with North Okanagan Minor Hockey by distributing tickets to young players and families. They have a similar arrangement with elementary schools in Armstrong. Last week, the Knights front office staff got a chance to meet and greet several business leaders at the Armstrong-Spallumcheen Chamber of Commerce’s Business after Business event at the arena. It was an opportunity to do a little networking and continue to grow the Knights’ brand. The Knights are the first KIJHL expansion franchise since the Chase Chiefs came on board three seasons ago. Chiefs general manager Fred Pittendreigh and Greene have been friends for 20 years, and Greene says his old pal was a good person to turn to for advice. “He was the contact we used; he had the inside track on how things are done in the league. He’s been a friend for a long time and was a great help.” The team grabbed credibility right away by inking former NHL winger and longtime Vernon Laker head coach Eddie Johnstone as the Knights’ first bench boss. Johnstone notched 122 goals in the NHL playing mostly with the New York Rangers. He went on to coach five seasons with the Lakers and several more in the East Coast and American leagues. “Getting Eddie was a big step for us and it shows that we’re serious,” said Greene, who is glad to have an experienced man behind the bench to guide the young team against more seasoned opponents. As any expansion team does, the team has experienced its share of disappointment so far, compiling a 2-12-1 record. “It’s a very young team and most of them don’t know yet what it takes to win at this level. They’re good kids and it’s coming.” The Knights boast one of the league’s most exciting players in KIJHL top goal-scorer Trevor Fitzgerald, who has sniped 17 times in 14 games. With a team like that in their backyard, North Okanagan residents should continue to fill the seats at Nor-Val to check out what the Knights have on display.

Knights get into net-work game

Date: Oct 30, 2009

Entry: Liz Pihulak wants women to fulfill their dreams. The Armstrong-based life coach is offering another one of her popular workshops this weekend, “Design Your Life — Live the Life of Your Dreams.” “This fun-filled day with like-minded women is all about reconnecting with your dreams, and leaving with a clear vision of what you truly want in your life,” said Pihulak, who runs Yes! You can...Life Coaching and NLP Consulting. At the workshop, women will learn: why we aren’t living our dreams; what’s stopping us and what we can do about it; how to reconnect with what we truly want in our lives; what’s fear got to do with it? “You’ll also be creating your own vision board, so start envisioning how you would like your life to be,” she said. “If you have ever wondered ‘what if’ this is your opportunity to find out.” The workshop takes place Sunday from 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. and includes lunch and an environment in which to explore your dreams and supplies to create your vision.

Date: Oct 30, 2009

Entry: Liz Pihulak wants women to fulfill their dreams. The Armstrong-based life coach is offering another one of her popular workshops this weekend, “Design Your Life — Live the Life of Your Dreams.” “This...more

Date: Oct 30, 2009

Entry: "Rented Christmas: The Musical"------ John Dale hasn't enjoyed a "real Christmas" for years. So, on the spur of the moment, he decides to "rent" a Christmas from the local rent shop. Anne is at first flustered with the requirements: a tree with presents, Christmas carols and also a wife and five children. Anne feels she has solved the problem of a Christmas family by calling the actors' guild. But the young actors come down with the measles so she turns to the local orphanage. When the guild can't locate a "mother," Anne steps in to play the role herself. Based on the short story by J. Lillian Vandervere, the story of how John Dale’s rented Christmas turns into a new life for all concerned makes this a warm story for the holiday season and a wonderful show for the whole family!  A lovely Christmas story set in the early 1900's, heartwarming, tender, full of both original and Christmas music.  It will play Nov. 25-28 and Dec. 2-5, with a matinée on Saturdays, as well as evening shows. 

Asparagus Community Theatre Holiday Show

Date: Oct 30, 2009

Entry: Dare to cut through the haunted woods...On October 31st Caravan Farm Theatre presents their Hallowe'en Event for all ages: The 6th Annual Walk Of Terror!!! We welcome you inside our Carnival Freakshow! Followed by the Feature Performance by renowned Canadian Actress and Caravan favorite Jan Kudelka in Dr Moira Messenger's Medicine Show, and dance to the Bohemian Beat of Blackberry Wood, a seven-piece band from Vancouver at the Billionaire's Ball in our brand new open air barn! But tread carefully; amongst these creepy and lovely acts of human bewilderment, lurking at the edge are the People of the Forest; hungry, desperate, with no invitation to the Billionaires Ball!

Caravan Farm Theatre Hallowe'en Event

Date: Oct 30, 2009

Entry: When people say we're cheesy - we take that as a compliment! We are in the heart of dairy farming country and home to some great events and attractions. Agriculture and ranching are the bulding blocks of our economy. Situated in the beautiful Spallumcheen valley, Armstrong enjoys a 141 day growing season and gets an average of 12.7 inches of rain each year - making this a great place to grow! From the humble beginnings of Armstrong Cheese in the early 1900's, to the Village Cheese Co., we are home to some great cheese. Don't be afraid to ask us 'where's the cheese?' Armstrong got its name in 1892, in honor or William Heaton-Armstrong, a banker who arranged financing for the railway and we were incorporated as a city in 1913. Today we are a vibrant community with a population of 4,480. Along with the basic ammenities needed by familes and seniors, we can say we are home to two homegrown theatre groups - Asparagus Community Theatre and Caravan Farm Theatre. And every year, our community hosts the Interior Provincial Exhibition and Stampede, BC's biggest agricultural fair. Downtown you will find specialty stores and services, and from April to November, the Armstrong Farmers' Market. Feel like getting back to nature? A hike up Mount Rose is only steps away and gives you a great view of the valley from Vernon to Enderby. Like wildlife? The Thomas Hayes Ecological Reserve and Otter Lake are home to many varieties of birds and small animals. The best thing about Armstrong? It's people. Friendly, welcoming and willing to share their little piece of rural heaven - Armstrong is definitely the Best Place on Earth!

The Best Place on Earth? Armstrong!

Date: Oct 30, 2009

Entry: Armstrong Spallumcheen Parks and Recreation is  again organizing the wildly popular film series – right here in Armstrong.  The series consists of 6 Friday night films and 6 Sunday Matinees: “Film Fest Fridays” for inquiring minds   and “Sunday Matinees” for kids and families.  The Fall film series runs every second weekend finishing on November 22.  The Winter series begins January 8 and runs until March 21.   For more information about upcoming films please consult either the “Everyone Plays” Recreation Guide

Date: Oct 30, 2009

Entry: Armstrong Spallumcheen Parks and Recreation is  again organizing the wildly popular film series – right here in Armstrong.  The series consists of 6 Friday night films and 6 Sunday Matinees: “Film...more

Date: Oct 30, 2009

Entry: Veterans Week November 5 - 11th Canadians will join together to celebrate Veterans' Week. To honor our Veterans, a light lunch and entertainment will be held November 5th at the Royal Canadian Legion Branch #35 Armstrong. WWII & Korean Vets free and entertainment – Sally Evans & Molly Boyd. Take this opportunity to visit with our veterans and say thank you. On November 11th, join the community at our annual Remembrance Day Ceremonies at Hassan Arena. Take a minute to give thanks and remember those who have served and are currently serving.

We Salute our Veterans!

Date: Oct 30, 2009

Entry: 'THE STORY' by Martha Ross - The nativity told as a love story between Joseph and Mary, along with 3 Kings, some Shepherds and an Angel. Funny and sweet – great entertainment for the whole family. Show begins December 12th with a preview show and continues until December 31st. This event has become a holiday tradition with many families who enjoy the opportunity for live outdoor theatre, a winter sleigh ride and a chance to spend time together.

Caravan Farm Theatre Winter Show

Date: Oct 30, 2009

Entry: During the winter months, Armstrong Spallumcheen Parks and Recreation presents a fun evening of skating – great music, groovy lights, and a chance to meet friends all add up to great winter fun. 100+ skaters attend each Friday. Spot prizes, fun activities, disco lights, special effects and the best music! New for 2009 - music videos on the big screen while you skate. Be active!

Date: Oct 30, 2009

Entry: During the winter months, Armstrong Spallumcheen Parks and Recreation presents a fun evening of skating – great music, groovy lights, and a chance to meet friends all add up to great winter fun. 100+...more

Date: Oct 30, 2009

Entry: Gather up some friends and join the fun! This is a super fun way to keep active, socialize and have a great time. Bring your own racket and non-marking shoes and call Armstrong Spallumcheen Parks and Recreation to participate!

Date: Oct 30, 2009

Entry: Gather up some friends and join the fun! This is a super fun way to keep active, socialize and have a great time. Bring your own racket and non-marking shoes and call Armstrong Spallumcheen Parks and Recreation...more

Date: Oct 30, 2009

Entry: The 3rd Annual Armstrong Spallumcheen Fall Equinox Women's Hockey Tournament was held in September - great hockey and a chance to enjoy a truly Canadian sport! Maybe next year the Canadian Olympic Women's Hockey team will register!

Fall Equinox Ladies Hockey Tournament

Date: Oct 30, 2009

Entry: Armstrong Spallumcheen Parks and Recreation hosted their first even 'Camp & Play' hockey tournament in September. Two levels of play - 19+ Men and a Senior's division made sure everyone could play and have fun! Free camping, a skills competition and hockey, hockey, hockey made for a great weekend! Maybe next year Vancouver Canucks right wing Mikael Samuelsson can join the fun!

1st Annual Camp & Play Hockey Tournament

Date: Oct 30, 2009

Entry: Dorian Kohl, one of Armstrong's most creative and quietly passionate residents and a dedicated member of the Arts community will present her environmental musical on November 13th. 'Woman Alive' was first performed in 1995 to 3 sold-out audiences. It then went on tour, followed by performances in the Okanagan Valley. Dorian said she was first inspired to write the piece because of the impending development of Armstrong's wetlands and in the larger picture, the abuse and disrespect of the environment throughout the world. 'It was important to bring awareness to the importance of respecting and honouring Mother Earth and the feminine aspect of the world' says this activist, writer and accomplished actress. 'Woman Alive' is a compilation of song, music, storytelling and dance. The upcoming Armstrong performance is timely and sponsored by the Armstrong Spallumcheen Environmental Trust, which will use all of the revenue generated for a bursary to be awarded to a 2010 graduate who plans to be environmentally active and pursue studies in the field.

Woman Alive!

Date: Oct 30, 2009

Entry: The newest crop of PVSS graduates are already planning their big day - and among their activities, a huge fashion show which will raise funds for Dry Grad activities. The “Dry Grad Party”, is a non-alcohol and substance-free event, organized by parents for the graduating classes. The event offers graduates a safe place for a “final fling” at the end of the grad night. The show will take place Saturday November 7, at PVSS, and will include a Silent Auction with great items, a concession and door prizzes. Live music will be provided by the band class. Get a group of friends together, enjoy a night out, and support a good cause - Dry Grad 2010!

Date: Oct 30, 2009

Entry: The newest crop of PVSS graduates are already planning their big day - and among their activities, a huge fashion show which will raise funds for Dry Grad activities. The “Dry Grad Party”, is a non-alcohol...more

Date: Oct 30, 2009

Entry: All groups are very busy with fundraising - and all for good causes - many of them give youth a chance to experience opportunities they normally would not be able to. Local Girl Guides are getting a chance to travel to a Guide gathering Summer 2010 in Guelph Ontario called 'Guiding Mosiac'. Part of the fundraising efforts include Girl Guide cookie sales featuring those great Mint Chocolate cookies. Sears Armstrong has come on board as a depot for cookies for those who miss door-to-door sales. In addition, local guides are offering their help over the holiday season to help out with events - serving, doing dishes, coatchecks - all the things that make your event work! Just think how great it would be to have someone serve your meal, then help out with the cleanup afterwards - and all you have to do is provide a donation towards their project.

Get the Guides to do it!!

Date: Oct 30, 2009

Entry: Local Volunteer Services Coordinator Julie is putting out a call for volunteers to help with one of the many valuable porgrams provided locally - the 'Good Morning Call' program. The program provides a phone call to designated seniors living in Armstrong from Monday to Friday. For seniors wishing to have a safety check or just contact with another person for added support, this program is invaluable. It is offered free of charge and operated by Interior Health Volunteer Services. This offers seniors the opportunity to keep connected with a phone call from a volunteer at a specified time each day. Calls are strictly confidential and both the volunteers and the seniors enjoy their interaction.

Date: Oct 30, 2009

Entry: Local Volunteer Services Coordinator Julie is putting out a call for volunteers to help with one of the many valuable porgrams provided locally - the 'Good Morning Call' program. The program provides a...more

Date: Oct 30, 2009

Entry: The Okanagan-Shuswap Century Ride is a fun, recreational event for cyclists of all abilities. Riders from 8 to 80-years-old have participated in this wonderful sightseeing extravaganza and it’s something the whole family can enjoy. Since it’s beginning in 1999, participation has grown from 50 to more than 300 riders! Entry is now limited to 400 participants to ensure the event remains successful and does not exceed limitations of the area’s infrastructure. The festive atmosphere at our community's Memorial Park and along the route creates a memorable day with friends, both old and new. COBRA are proud supporters of Bicycles for Humanity. Two dollars from every registration is donated to this worthy cause. The Okanagan-Shuswap Century Ride is grateful to the continued support of our sponsors who embrace OSCR as a healthy community-based event. There will be three routes offered through some of the Okanagan’s most scenic rural farmland: 14 km, 56 km and 100 km. All rides start and finish at Memorial Park on Pleasant Valley Road in Armstrong. We provide support in the way of great volunteers and food/refreshments on route. Three rides to choose from: The 14 km Ride - This one is designated for kids and families or those that would like a short ride. This ride also starts at Memorial Park and loops around the town of Armstrong. The Half-Century Ride (56 km) - Go about half the distance but have just as much fun, the 56 km ride also begins at Memorial Park in downtown Armstrong. This is an out and back route that turns around at the first pit stop. The course is moderately challenging with rolling hills throughout. The Century Ride (100 km) - This ride begins at Memorial Park in downtown Armstrong and heads north along scenic country roads to Salmon Arm and then returns along Deep Creek Road. This course is moderately challenging with rolling hills throughout. A 2 km climb on Okanagan Avenue in Salmon Arm leading to our second and final rest stop poses the most significant character builder on the course.

Okanagan Shuswap Century Ride

Date: Oct 30, 2009

Entry: Welcome to the new Enderby-Armstrong Ringette Association website! www.enderbyarmstrongringette.ca/
We are members of the Thompson Okanagan Ringette League and our district has a total of 5 teams - one Bunny, one Novice, one Petite B, one Tween B and one "oldies" team! Our season runs from September to March and our games are played from Salmon Arm to Penticton, British Columbia. Our schedule page will be available shortly for a complete look at each team's schedule. New registration is always welcome for all boys and girls between the ages of 4 years old and 18, or for anyone wanting to join our "oldies" team!

Armstrong Enderby Ringette

Date: Oct 30, 2009

Entry: Our scouting families had a firsthand experience at camping in the fall. They enjoyed an overnight Family Camp recently at Meggait Farm and it was a great opportunity to meet our Scouting families in a casual setting. Young and the young at heart played games of fun and skill during the camp. Campers made a keepsake leaf print t-shirt, all the while learning about the different shapes of local foliage. That evening, campers enjoyed singing around the campfire with songs that bring every age together. The next day, Scouts Own joined the group and they all went on a beautiful fall hike up to where the water comes out of the mountain. The rock formations in the canyon were amazing! Watch for the scouts in the community as they participate in the many ongoing activities and events. Our youth appreciate your support!

Adventures in Scouting

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