Peachland Post February 13_2026

ROMANTIC STORY A couple’s story of finding love in the later years of life P.3

Peachland POST

The week of February 13, 2026

FOREST FINDINGS Report released on the status of BC’s forests P.6

ABOUT TOWN Find out what’s going on and where it’s happening P.11

IT’S OFFICIAL!

By Teresa Harris Triggiano

No doubt that by now we have all learned of the remarkable February 4 announcement proclaiming Peachland to be the Kindest Community in Canada. And with this well deserved title, an empowering award of $100,000 for Peachland charities.

But how did this delightful turn of events come to be? Here’s how.

The contest was created in 2024 by Coca Cola and Coke Canada Bottling (a family owned company) in cooperation with Community Foundations of Canada. According to Coca Cola, the contest was created and designed to “bring together Canadians, spread holiday cheer, and emphasize acts of kindness.”

The first winning community, the town of Jarvis, Ontario, was awarded $50,000. The contest was such an enormous success, the prize money was doubled for 2025.

Over 800 communities entered the current contest, with over 5,400 submitted stories collected across the country from Colinet, NL to Iqaluit, NU all the way to Chemainus, BC. The top ten finalists were determined by the number of valid entries submitted per capita for each community. A judging panel consisting of representatives from the previous town winner, Jarvis, Coca Cola,

CANADA’S KINDEST COMMUNITY Peachland confirmed as HOW IT ALL CAME ABOUT

Coke Canada Bottling, the Community Foundations of Canada, and an independent third party then selected a winner through a blind evaluation of each of the finalist community’s submissions. Peachland’s submissions were especially touching with stories ranging from poignant descriptions of the generosity of neighbours opening up their homes to strangers during the wildfire evacuations, to heartwarming accounts of the fine work of our numerous volunteers with the Food bank and Peachland Wellness Center. As Abbie Norrish, the

Interim Managing Director of the Central Okanagan Foundation, says, “Peachland is a community that shows up for each other.”

Despite inquiries about the number of stories entered by residents, the total is unknown. But, after a little research, it was discovered that Kim McFadden, a Peachland resident, certainly began the chain of events that increased our odds.

In what can only be described as an appropriate example of kindness, Kim was volunteering her time for the Salvation Army’s 2025 Christmas Kettle Campaign,

ringing bells at a donation kettle stationed in front of the Peachland IGA, when she noticed literature and signage about the search for Canada’s “Kindest Community.”

After returning home on December 12, 2025, Kim posted a message on the Peachland Good Neighbours Facebook page stating, “Peachland Neighbours -- I think WE LIVE in Canada’s Kindest Community. Do you?” In the post, Kim mentioned that the winning community would receive a $100,000 prize for their community charities.

Peachland POST

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• Peachland Community Newspaper Society

5878C Beach Ave., Peachland, B.C. V0H 1X7 250 859 4295

• Board of Directors

President Keith Fielding

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Director Geoff Trafford

Director Donna Cave

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• Managing editor Keith Fielding 250 859 2429 editor@peachlandpost.net

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• Office Enquiries 250-859-4295•

We respectfully acknowledge our society operates on the traditional territory of the Syilx/Okanagan People. Peachland Post gratefully acknowledges office space supported by Brenda Renewables.

Peachland Elementary students in writing contest

Peachland Elementary grade 3 student, Alicity Bieksa, has shared with us the poem her teacher has recommended be submitted to the writing contest organized by the BC Teachers’ Federation magazine, Teacher.

In what will doubtless be a hotly contested event, selected students across B.C. in grades K-3, 4-6, 7-9 and 10-12 are eligible to win a certificate and $50 bookstore gift card for entries in any of four categories: personal narratives, essays, stories, and poems.

At right is 8-year old Alicia’s entry.

Good luck Alicia and to other students whose work has been submitted to the contest.

Thanks to support from Principal Lisa Wilson and teaching staff at Peachland Elementary, Peachland Post will be reporting from time to time on student news.

I Feel Warm Inside

I feel warm inside when I lay on my trampoline and a storm is brewing up in the sky, but the sun comes out just for the pleasant surprise of a Rainbow!

I feel warm inside when my dad tucks me in at night and says “Te Amo”. I feel warm inside when the grass is silky kelly green with fresh dewdrops in the morning.

I feel warm inside when the sun is setting on the balcony and I enjoy the twilight skies.

I feel warm inside when I write songs, listening to the melodies play. I keep them to myself like my own.

I feel warm inside when I play mission impossible in the dark, hearing laughter and deep breaths.

The End

By Alicity Bieksa, Age 8 Peachland Elementary School

It’s never too late for romance in the next chapter

Having arrived early, I sat in Bliss Cafe, excited to meet Ken Scott and Diana (though widely known as “Nan”) Chevallier. When I asked how I should recognize them, Ken jokingly replied, “We’ll be the cute couple.” He may have been kidding, but he wasn’t wrong. When one of the happiest and absolutely without a doubt “cutest” couples I have ever seen walked through the door, I knew immediately it was them.

HOMETOWN HEART

Teresa Harris Triggiano

Given that reportedly over 80% of Peachland residents are over the age of 55, I was especially interested in the story of how these two met. Ken is a youthful 87 years old, and the lovely Nan, a spritely 77 years of age. Remarkably, they met at 81 and 71 years old. So dear Peachlanders, if you are on your own and uncertain whether love is possible in these later chapters of life, as

Nan puts it, “Don’t give up!”

I sit across in wonder at Nan and Ken’s easy rapport and marvel at their obvious happiness in each other. They smile widely and have a tangible aura of joy about them. Nan reports that she had a great love in her life. She was happily married for 40 years to a good man named Larry, who sadly passed away thirteen years ago.

“I didn’t think I could ever fall in love again,” says Nan.

“And, I wasn’t interested in dating again,” smiles Ken.

Having been through a few painful experiences, Ken, upon meeting Nan, warned her that he likely “was only good for another five years or 5000 miles -- whichever comes first!” I laugh but get the distinct feeling that neither would have taken a chance on love again … for anyone else but each other.

On February 21, 2019, Ken was out with a friend at his favourite hangout -- a country bar in Kelowna where regulars knew him as the guy to watch dance. Nan arrived with a friend, who as it turned out happened to be Ken’s friend’s Aunt. Before they knew it, Ken and Nan spent the evening dancing and chatting alone. As fate would have it, Ken was soon heading to Cabo San Lucas while Nan had also been planning a trip to Cabo with her girlfriend that same month. They arranged to

see each other in Mexico, and the rest as Ken put it, “is history.”

Ken is a character full of great one liners. “I was told Nan doesn’t throw away old stuff. That bodes well for me!” Ken beams. He then takes Nan’s hand and tells me, “Nan is the most beautiful soul you could ever meet.” Nan appears almost teary in response. He goes on to share a quote that says it perfectly. “I can’t promise to love you for the rest of your life, but I can promise to love you

for the rest of mine.” To which, all three of us sit in Bliss looking teary. There we have it, Peachland. Love abounds and is possible in every chapter of life. Who knows who’s around the next corner!

Teresa Harris Triggiano is the founder of a restorative justice program. She was a columnist in the Vancouver Sun and appeared as a weekly expert on Global’s BC Noon News for fourteen years. Email: theheartofpeachland@gmail.com

In response to our request for special proposal stories in celebration of Valentine’s Day, we received this lovely submission.

NYE 1988 after getting back from the reworks at Schutterlindenberg Mountain, Germany, visiting my then-military boyfriend of 8 months, he asked me to sit in the front room. He put on the song “Just the Way You Are” and left the room. Returning with a box in his hand, knelt down on one knee, took my hand and said,

“I love you with all my heart and soul and want to spend the rest of my life with you – will you marry me?” Almost 38 years later, he is still my person! ~ Rebecca Weaver

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR

Ideas clarified in edited letter to editor

Dear Editor,

Since writing and proclaiming that Historic Peachland was “dead in the water” and seeing the published responses, I feel compelled to point out that much

of my original letter, and some key points, were edited out for brevity. So please allow me to clarify.

Some people read the letter and concluded this dummy hasn’t stepped out to see what’s in front of his nose; others, I suspect, didn’t even finish reading. Some, I hope, considered more deeply the prin-

THE DISTRICT OF PEACHLAND IS NOW ACCEPTING APPLICATIONS FOR ELECTION OFFICIALS (10 POSITIONS) TO SUPPORT THE 2026 PEACHLAND BY-ELECTION. THIS IS A GREAT OPPORTUNITY TO CONTRIBUTE TO THE DEMOCRATIC PROCESS AND SERVE YOUR COMMUNITY.

About the Role:

Election Officials help set up the voting location, register voters, distribute ballots and help count ballots after polls close.

Election Officials also help clean up the voting location (such as removing posters, signage, moving tables and chairs.)

Applicants must be:

• 18 years of age or older

• Able to work a 12-hour day and remain on site at all times;

• Legally able to work in Canada;

• As a condition of working any local government election, all election workers are required to make a solemn declaration that they will faithfully and impartially fulfill their duties, and that they are not personally connected with any candidate in the election.

• Able to attend a mandatory training session in Peachland on February 26, 2026, at 4:00PM. Rate of Pay for attending the mandatory training session is $75.00

• Available to work the following dates:

o March 4, 2026

o March 11, 2026

o March 14, 2026

Daily rate of pay is $325.00

Applications are available at the District of Peachland Office and at www.peachland.ca/elections

Please submit your completed application to Jennifer Sawatzky, Chief Election Officer by 4:00 p.m. on Monday, February 16, 2026.

Applications can be submitted in person at the District of Peachland Office (5806 Beach Avenue, Peachland) or by email to elections@peachland.ca

cipal ideas outlined in the letter.

Towns where a distinctive character is established like Fort Langley or Whistler Village don’t just happen. Unlike Peachland they have design guidelines directing new builds or renovations to preserve and incorporate their vision, be it “historic town” or alpine ski village.

Peachland has no guidelines in place to preserve our history, if that is what is desired.

Past Councils have generally let new designs be established by property developers. Everything newly built along Beach Avenue in the last 10 years fits the 2 to 4 storey ultra modern, glass fronted, flat roofed, single and multifamily residence style termed (according to Google) “Okanagan Modern”. This architecture is impressive, however, the word “historic” doesn’t pop out.

Plans are to relocate the municipal offices and Fire Hall, and with 19 of 50 lots in the downtown core up for sale, a massive redevelopment in Okanagan Modern style is coming. For proof simply look at the new PeachView commercial/residential

building, and renderings for the proposed, (now failed), PeachTree and Crystal Waters complexes.

“Dead in the water” refers to a losing (perhaps lost) cause. If residents want historic, you (and Council) are going to have to get active. Preserving history is a difficult, uphill walk if you’re up for it.

Perhaps changing the Welcome Sign is easier?

Robert Muller, Peachland

Bins a grey area

Dear Editor,

Will pink and grey save the day, or is this just another feel good environmental initiative?

I’m not sure what impact this will have on the environment but you can be sure it will have an impact on our regional tax bill. I wonder what the cost will be for implementing and maintaining it? Did our town council have approval for this program or any say on the feasibility of implementation?

Also, who’s going to pick up all the plastic blowing around if it happens to be a windy collection day?

David Chapman, Peachland

POST LETTERS: We encourage readers to submit letters to the editor on appropriate subjects. We reserve the right to edit letters for clarity, brevity and legality.

Send your submissions to editor@peachlandpost.net

My wife’s female intuition is so highly developed she often knows I’m wrong before I even open my mouth.

•••

Marriage is when one person handles the flights, passports, bags, hotel bookings, rental car and itinerary…and the other one asks, “Where are we going again?”

NOTICE TO BY-ELECTION CANDIDATES

Candidates wishing to purchase campaign advertising space in Peachland Post can do so in any, or all, of the following three editions:

Friday, February 20; Friday February 27; and Friday March 6 For advertising rates and further information please contact Geoff Trafford sales@peachlandpost.net or call (604) 328-5924

Keeping Peachland Post fresh and alive MUSINGS

Readers may have noticed that this edition of Peachland Post has a few more advertisements than usual. Readers may also have spotted some new content topics introduced recently that we hope will be of interest. Advertising revenue is of course the key ingredient needed to ensure our sustainability as a community newspaper. So, we are delighted whenever we can see an increase in the amount of space needed to meet that demand -even if there is some impact on the amount of space for other content. But that impact can be minimized.

In our case the “trick” to doing so lies with our secret weapon: Kiana Haner-Wilk, our wonder-

LOOKING FORWARD

fully talented Designer! Every week she brings her design and layout skills to the task of making the paper look appealing, the content readable, and the whole fit together like an intricate jigsaw puzzle. Don’t ask me how she does it, but being able to incorporate more advertising space without reducing other content is just one component of her magical tool box.

If, as we hope, our advertising revenue continues to grow we have the option of adding additional pages to the paper thereby accommodating increased demand while at the same time and adding content likely to be of interest. We are some way from that condition right now but it is an option.

And here’s an interesting snippet. Did you know that

there are regulations governing the ratio of advertising space to non-advertising space? That ratio believe it or not is no more than 70% advertising and not less than 30% other content. Yes, really. We would consider ourselves fortunate if those numbers were reversed! Back now to new content.

Last week we introduced Lou and Martha, two Peachland friends who love to bake and cook. They will join us from time to time to share some favourite recipes -- such as the Linzer cookies they wrote about last week. And this week, the start of a collaboration with Peachland Elementary School. This one is evolving but will, we hope, become a regular “student news” corner. Our thanks to staff and 8-year old Alicity Bieksa for getting us started.

Keith Fielding is President of the Peachland Community Newspaper Society and editor of Peachland Post. He is also a former Peachland mayor and councillor.

FOREST FUTURE

Provincial Forestry Advisory Council issues new report

Last time I wrote about a post wildfire report.

Kristen Jones, Peachland’s Communications Coordinator, responded on behalf of the District in response to my questions about how they can address the report’s recommendations.

“The District has been in touch with geoscience consultants to conduct a slope stability and risk assessment for the Munro Creek wildfire and will proceed once the emergency-related expenditure is authorized.

“The District has found no impacts on water quality, water intake structures from sediment and debris due to wildfire activity. During and immediately following the fire, District staff were in contact with Interior Health for guidance regarding potential

wildfire related water quality concerns. As a precaution, staff implemented a weekly comprehensive analysis for one month following the fire to detect any changes in water chemistry. No significant changes were identified.

NATURAL WONDER

Judy Wyper

“Operators continue to monitor turbidity levels in the creek and pH levels in the treatment process.”

DISTRICT OF PEACHLAND DECLARATION OF CANDIDATES

February 6, 2026

I, JENNIFER SAWATZKY, Chief Election Officer for the DISTRICT OF PEACHLAND, do hereby declare, pursuant to section 97 of the Local Government Act, the following persons as candidates in the 2026 Local By-Election:

Candidates for the office of Councillor:

BANI-SADR, Ali 203 -4350 Ponderosa Drive, Peachland, BC V0H 1X5

HALL, Eric 301-1610 Gordon Drive, Kelowna, BC Vl Y 3G9

McFARLANE, George 4253 San Clemente Avenue, Peachland, BC V0H 1X6

RICHARDSON, Chris 4171 Ponderosa Drive, Peachland, BC V0H 1X5

WALSH, Nick 4993 Princeton Avenue, Peachland, BC V0H 1X8

Given under my hand at PEACHLAND, British Columbia, this 6th day of February, 2026.

In the meantime, things have been happening at the Ministry of Water, Lands and Forest Stewardship. (WLRS) From Conflict to Care: BC’s Forest Future: A New Sustainable System for Communities, Economies and Ecologies, was issued on February 2, from the Provincial Forestry Advisory Council. Eighty pages!

In 2020 a government-sponsored report came out with 14 recommendations for better forest management, especially for old growth, and WLRS was subsequently formed.

They have been very slow to implement the recommendations because to do so would mean an overhaul of the way that forestry is conducted in B.C. While they deliberated, mills closed, industry relocated to more profitable places, and people lost jobs. People saw that current practices are not sustainable, and that’s how we got into this mess in the woods with diminishing timber supply. The easily accessible and profitable timber is minimal. The report that just came out is a plan for how change could happen.

It was written by Registered Professional Foresters, industry, biologists, and representatives from UBC and the Forest Practices Board. The plan addresses all aspects of forestry, from timber supply to maintaining jobs.

Here are some of the highlights: Use Lidar to inventory all public lands for a baseline of what’s there. Make an independent body for data and inventory management. Make an arm’s length assessment of High Value Old Growth. Legislate Regional Forest Management Areas with their distinct land managers for decision-making. Make the Annual Allowable

Cut a result of long term planning for each specific area.

• Establish Wildland Urban Interface zones to prioritize wildfire risk reduction.

• Create an arm’s length oversight body to oversee transitions.

• Avoid partisan interference with forestry practices.

The authors state that their recommendations are the first steps of a roadmap for change, and their timeline suggests a 5-year implementation. They note that misalignment of strategies and ecological conditions arose from using old management practices that no longer fit current conditions climatically and environmentally. The plan aims for a cohesive approach that can bring health to ecosystems and jobs to people and prosperity to communities. Otherwise we head for collapse. The plan gives me hope.

Judy Wyper is with the Peachland Watershed Protection Alliance and the South Okanagan Chapter of the Council of Canadians.

$100,000 awarded to Peachland to support local needs

KINDEST FROM PAGE 1

The ripple effect was immense, with dozens immediately springing into action to spread the word and enter stories on the Coca Cola contest page.

Having picked up the news, Peachland Post printed a story on December 26th warning of the impending deadline of January 1st. It appears the story launched a chain of events spurring numerous additional residents to also submit their stories detailing the various generous acts of kindness witnessed in Peachland. So what exactly happens now? The much welcomed prize money given by Coca Cola and Coke Canada Bottling will be placed into the care of the Central Okanagan Foundation (COF).

Then, noted Abbie Norrish, COF will be reviewing submissions as well as connecting with Peachland’s community leaders to help guide decisions regarding which charities receive the money.

By the end of 2026, Coca Cola and Coke Canada Bottling have promised to return to Peachland to celebrate this win with an event we can all partake in. Though many residents report wishing they could have been present at the February 4th announcement, the Mayor states he was bound to secrecy until 9:20 that morning in order to ensure the results did not leak prior to the formal announcement at 10:00 am.

Without doubt, the credit of being bestowed the amazing title of “Canada’s Kindest Community” belongs to the town as a whole.

For without each story entered, each volunteer giving selflessly of their time, each home opened to welcome those in need during the fires, each member who works in service to this town, and every smile offered up to a passerby, this thrilling turn of events

could not have been possible. As Coca Cola has put it, “kindness is contagious.”

The sum of which adds up to create a town we love and are proud to have recognized for its warmth and kindness. ••

CIVIC AWARD NOMINATIONS

{

Nominate a group or individual in your community for one of the following awards:

• Citizen of the Year

• Youth Citizen of the Year

• Unsung Hero

• Lifetime Service Award

• Excellence Awards

• Leadership

• Volunteerism

• Health Promotion

• Community Spirit

• Arts & Culture

• Sports & Recreation

Join Our Board of Directors! 2025

Peachland Wellness Centre Society (PWC)

Nomination deadline is: MARCH 6, 2026

Nomination forms are available at the Community Centre and www.peachland.ca/civic-awards

SELECTIONS WILL BE BASED ON THE NOMINEE’S ACHIEVEMENT CONTRIBUTION FOR THE YEAR OF 2025 {

For more information please call: 250-767-2133 or email: recreation@peachland.ca www.peachland.ca

The Peachland Wellness Centre Society, a licensed charitable non-profit organization, is seeking an experienced, community-minded leader to join its volunteer Board of Directors.

TIME COMMITMENT:

Quarterly 2-hour meetings, plus committee and fundraising participation. IDEAL CANDIDATES DEMONSTRATE:

• Leadership experience, preferably a minimum of two years as a Chair, Vice-Chair, or Director

• Governance expertise, including knowledge of the BC Societies Act

• Experience in strategic planning, policy development, accountability to governing bodies, and fiduciary oversight

• Strong collaborative and respectful interpersonal skills

Please submit your resume and a brief statement of interest outlining your relevant experience to:

milly.pwc@outlook.com by April 3rd, 2026

THE CORPORATION OF THE DISTRICT OF PEACHLAND 2026 LOCAL BY-ELECTION

NOTICE OF ADVANCE VOTING

PUBLIC NOTICE IS GIVEN AS FOLLOWS:

ADVANCE VOTING DATES AND LOCATION

TWO ADVANCE VOTING OPPORTUNITIES will be HELD between the hours of 8:00 AM to 8:00 PM,

MARCH 4, 2026

PEACHLAND COMMUNITY CENTRE

4450 6TH STREET, PEACHLAND, BC V0H1X6 - and –

MARCH 11, 2026

PEACHLAND COMMUNITY CENTRE

4450 6TH STREET, PEACHLAND, BC V0H1X6

ELECTOR REGISTRATION

You may register at the time of voting by completing the application form available at the voting place and making a declaration that you meet the requirements to be registered as set out below:

RESIDENT ELECTORS:

To register as a resident elector you must:

• be 18 years of age or older on general voting day March 14, 2026;

• be a Canadian citizen;

• be a resident of British Columbia for at least 6 months immediately before the day of registration (at time of voting);

• be a resident of the District of Peachland on the day of registration (at time of voting); and

• not be disqualified under the Local Government Act or any other enactment from voting in an election or assent voting and not otherwise disqualified by law.

NON-RESIDENT PROPERTY ELECTORS:

To register as a non-resident property elector you must:

• be 18 years of age or older on general voting day March 14, 2026;

• be a Canadian citizen;

• be a resident of British Columbia for at least 6 months immediately before the day of registration (at time of voting);

• be a registered owner of real property in the District of Peachland for at least 30 days immediately before the day of registration (at time of voting);

• not be entitled to register as a resident elector; and

• not be disqualified under the Local Government Act or any other enactment from voting in an election or assent voting and not otherwise disqualified by law.

In addition, for non-resident property electors:

• the only persons who are registered owners of the 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.

• If more than one individual is registered owner of the property, only one of those individuals may, with the written consent of the majority of the individual owners, register as a non-resident property elector.

In addition, in order to register at time of voting:

Resident electors must produce 2 pieces of identification (at least one with a signature). Picture identification is not necessary. The identification must prove both residency and identity.

Non-resident property electors must produce 2 pieces of identification (at least one with a signature) to prove identity, proof that they are entitled to register in relation to the property, and, if there is more than one owner of the property, written consent from the majority of the property owners.

TYPES OF DOCUMENTS THAT WILL BE ACCEPTED AS IDENTIFICATION

You must produce at least two (2) documents that provide evidence of your identity and place of residence, at least one (1) of which must contain your signature. The following classes of documents will be accepted:

a) BC Driver’s Licence;

b) BC Identification Card such as i. a photo BC services card; ii. a non-photo BC services card;

c) Owner’s Certificate of Insurance and Vehicle Licence (issued by ICBC)

d) BC CareCard or BC Gold CareCard;

e) Ministry of Social Development and Economic Security Request for Continued Assistance Form SDES8, (now “Monthly Form EA181”);

f) Social Insurance Number card or confirmation of SIN letter issued by the Government of Canada;

g) Citizenship Card issued by Citizenship and Immigration Canada;

h) Property tax notice;

i) Credit Card or Debit Card;

j) Utility Bill (such as electricity, natural gas, water, telephone or cable services).

The above listed identification documents MUST be accepted by election officials. An election official may also accept other forms of documents that provide evidence satisfactory to the election official (e.g., a valid, current passport).

For further information on these matters, please contact the Election Office by:

Phone: 250-767-3704

Email: elections@peachland.ca

Web: www.peachland.ca/elections

The diary of a tour guide

By eric Hall

British people love coming to Canada. Some have family connections, but most just dream of seeing the Canadian Rockies. They have read the books and seen the photographs. One of the most popular tours that I looked after started in eastern Canada and then travelled to Calgary and Banff. Despite the attractions such as Quebec City and Niagara Falls, arriving in the Canadian Rockies changes everything. So many visitors told me that they wanted to return to Canada but only for the Rocky Mountains.

Many European countries have spectacular mountains but not Great Britain. The highest point in Great Britain is Ben Nevis in Scotland at 1345m (4413ft) above sea level. I have to explain to British people that when they are in their hotel room in Banff, they are higher than they would be at the top of Ben Nevis, as Banff is at 1383m (4537ft). There is always some confusion about that.

People wonder why Canada allows railways to run through Banff and Jasper National Parks. The answer is that the railways were there first. It was William Van Horne, the manager of the CPR (Canadian Pacific Railway), that was the driving force behind the

creation of Banff National Park. It was originally called Rocky Mountain Park when it was established in 1887. Hot springs had been discovered in the Banff area and Van Horne wanted to build a hotel and promote tourism. Being a railway stopping point, the original name for Banff was “Siding 29.”

The name Banff comes from Banffshire in Scotland. The president of the CPR, George Stephen, was born in Banffshire; it must have seemed an appropriate name when it was suggested. Word of mouth promotes tourism in the Rocky Mountains but the Canadian government continues to advertise Banff as open for business; the result is too many visitors. In recent years there have been attempts to reduce automobile traffic through Banff and new restrictions on parking. But the problem of too many visitors continues, despite the high cost of accommodation.

As the Banff area is in a National Park, it is under the control of Parks Canada, a federal organization. It wasn’t until 1989 that the town of Banff had a Mayor and Council; prior to that, Parks Canada was responsible for the town. Even today, you cannot live in Banff unless you have a reason to be there.

In my experience, Parks Cana-

Peachland Places of Faith

Lake Avenue at 13th Street 250-767-9237

Sunday Morning Service: 10:30 am

Pastor: Lyle Wahl peachlandbaptistcanada.com

There is a sermon audio available on our website each week.

da staff seem to consider animals as top priority and people as very much a lesser consideration. If you drive through Banff National Park, you may have noticed some strange bridges. Twenty years ago, when Highway One was widened, bridges were built just for wildlife. Many people were skeptical that animals would use them, but they do and today they are considered a big success story. Previously tunnels had been built to allow animal migration. But many deer and elk found their predators waiting for them at the other side. With the wildlife overpasses,

Peachland United Church 4421 4th St., Peachland 250-767-1155

“Let Us Worship Together”

ZOOM AND IN-SANCTUARY

SERVICES AT 10 AM

Pastor: Ian McLean

ALL ARE WELCOME

For 10:00 am zoom service, visit www.peachlandunited.ca

it is easier for animals to look around and assess any danger. Parks Canada have cameras to monitor animal movement and they have detailed knowledge of animal migrations. Some animals have very visible white ear tags and occasionally, you see an elk with a radio collar. These are the “bad” animals that keep returning to the town, where they are not welcome. Surprisingly it is elk, not bears, that present the most danger in urban areas. Elk don’t seem dangerous, but if you get too close for that special photograph, you can quickly get into serious trouble.

2026 LOCAL BY-ELECTION

MAIL BALLOT APPLICATIONS AVAILABLE

Mail Ballot Voting is available to all eligible electors for the District of Peachland 2026 Local By-Election.

Applications are now available at the District of Peachland office located at 5806 Beach Avenue, Peachland, BC V0H 1X7 or on our website at www.peachland/elections.ca

CROSSWORD SUDOKU

See puzzle answers below

Fill the grid so that every column, every row & every 3x3 box contains the numbers 1 to 9.

RATING:

Roman garments

Fidget, ... one’s thumbs

(behind)

TOPHAM PLACE

This road is named for the Topham family, members of which have played major roles in the affairs of Peachland ever since their first arrival in 1911.

The Topham story began in England, where Fred Topham, a stonemason, and Beatrice Broscomb were married in 1904. Later that year they immigrated to Winnipeg and then, in 1911, came further west to Peachland.

The Tophams had eight children and, in 1931, two of their sons – Ted and Arthur – planted 50 cherry trees and 600 peach trees on land they had purchased between Renfrew Road and Bulyea Avenue.

The orchard flourished for

ROAD NAME OF THE WEEK

several decades before being developed for housing. When this occurred, the road that connects the orchard area to Lipsett Avenue was named Topham Place.

Over the years, the Tophams participated significantly in the affairs of Peachland.

Fred Topham Sr. was Peachland’s ninth Reeve, serving 1934-35, and Fred Topham Jr. (Ted) was the fifteenth, serving 1950-51. Several descendents of this family still reside in Peachland, including Grant Topham, who served as Peachland’s Fire Chief from 2004 to 2013, commanding the forces who successfully fought the huge Trepanier Creek fire in 2012.

POST EVENTS

Registration may be required for the following activities or events. Please contact the organization for more details.

SATURDAY

50 PLUS CENTRE 250-767-9133

Carpet Bowling 9:30 AM-noon

OUR SPACE

okfolkschool.ca

Register for various workshops

Hearts Festival Feb. 7-16

Various events

Story Slam Doors 5:30 Slam 6-8 PM

PEACHLAND ART GALLERY

Wed. to Sun. 10 AM-4 PM

Exhibit ends Feb. 16

Peachland Art Group, Passion 4 Art, Art in Peachland

PEACHLAND COMMUNITY CENTRE

Cooking class-Antojitos 11AM-1PM

PEACHLAND LEGION 250-767-9404

Tues. to Sun. open at noon

Kitchen Wed. to Sat 2-6 PM

Wings or Bacon Cheeseburger & Fries

Meat Draw 3-5 PM

PEACHLAND MUSEUM & VISITOR CENTRE 250-767-3441

Open Daily 10 AM-6 PM

Train exhibit is operating

SUNDAY

50+ ACTIVITY CENTRE

Bluegrass 2-5 PM

OUR SPACE

Beginner Stained Glass 10-4:30 PM Register

PEACHLAND ART GALLERY

Sun. 10 AM-4 PM

PEACHLAND COMMUNITY CENTRE

Pickleball 3.0-3.5 9-11 AM

Pilates Fusion 11-noon

Pickleball 2.0-2.5 11:15AM-1:15 PM

Family Day Pottery: 1:30-3:30PM

Pickleball 3.75-4.0 1:30-3:30 PM

MONDAY

50 PLUS CENTRE 250-767-9133

50+ Fitness 8-9 AM

Variety Singers 9:30-11:30 AM

We Art Here 12 PM

Bridge 1 PM

Tae Kwon Do 5:30-7:30 PM

OUR SPACE

Acrylic Painting With Wally Jan. 5-Feb 9 10 AM-2 PM Register peachlandarts.ca/workshops

PEACHLAND COMMUNITY CENTRE

Family Day Roller Skate 12-4 PM

Events listings are free to non-profit and community groups. Submit by Friday, 3 PM for publication the following Friday at info@peachlandpost.net

PEACHLAND WELLNESS CENTRE

Adult Day Service 9 AM

Chair Yoga 10:30 AM

Ladies Social 1 PM

TUESDAY

50 PLUS CENTRE

Yoga 8:30-9:30 AM

Carpet Bowling 9:30-noon

AA 12-1 PM

Mahjong 1-4 PM

Passion 4 Art 1-4 PM

Line Dancing 4:30-5:30 PM

Cloggers 6-6:45 PM

Treasure Hunters 6:45 PM

PEACHLAND COMMUNITY CENTRE

Flow Yoga 9-10 AM

Learn to Play Pickleball 10:30-11:30 AM

Remedy Yoga 10:30-11:45 AM

Novice Pickleball 11:45-12:45 PM

Fitness Blast 12:30-1:15 PM

Pickleball 3.7-4.0 1-3PM

Senior Strength, Balance and Core 1:30-2:4PM

Cycle Fusion 5:45-6:45 PM

PEACHLAND LEGION

Catch the King 5 PM

Darts 7 PM

PEACHLAND WELLNESS CENTRE

Ladies Cards 10:30 AM

Men’s Coffee & Crib 1 PM

Love, Loss, Grieving Group 1:30-3 PM

Register with PWC Meet at United Church Hall 4421 4th Street

PEACHLAND WHEEL NUTS

A&W 4-6 PM

WEDNESDAY

50 PLUS CENTRE

50+ Fitness 9-10 AM

Chair Yoga 10:30-11:30 PM

Bridge 1-3:30 PM

Tae Kwon Do 5:30-7:30 PM

OUR SPACE

Drawing with Terry Moore 1-3 PM $5

PEACHLAND COMMUNITY CENTRE

Indoor walking 8-9 AM

Pickleball Drop-in 1.5-2.0

9:15-11:15 AM

Functional Fitness 9:30-10:45 AM

Pickleball Drop-In 3.0+

11:20AM-1:30PM

Pickleball 2.5-3.0 1:45-3:45 PM

Mini Kickers Boys 4:30-5:15 PM

Soccer Fundamentals Boys 5:15-6:15 PM

Yoga and Beyond 5:15-6:15 PM

Pickleball 4.0+ 6:30-8:30 PM

PEACHLAND LEGION

Karaoke 3-5 PM Sherry

PEACHLAND MODEL TRAIN

GROUP 6:30 PM Museum

PEACHLAND WELLNESS CENTRE

Tai Chi 10 AM

Sunshine Singers 1 PM

THURSDAY

50 PLUS CENTRE

Yoga 8:30-9:30 AM

Iron & Silk 11-12 AM

Ukelele 1-2:30 PM

Bingo Doors 5:30 Starts 6 PM

PEACHLAND COMMUNITY CENTRE

Pickleball 3.0-3.5 8:15-10:15 AM

Pickleball 3.5-3.75

10:30AM-12:30 PM

Yoga Strength 11 AM-12:15 PM

Fitness Blast 12:30-1:15 PM

Pickleball 3.75-4.0 1-3 PM

Senior, Strength, Core and More 1:30-2:45 PM

Sport ball 4:30-6 PM

Volleyball & Badminton 5-6 PM

Zumba Toning 5:30-6:30 PM

Pickleball All Play Drop-In 6:15-8:15 PM

PEACHLAND LEGION

Meat Draw 3-5 PM

Liver & Onions or Roast

Beef Dinner $17.25

PEACHLAND LIBRARY

Preschool Story Time 11 AM Drop In

Stay & Play 11:30 Drop In

PEACHLAND WELLNESS CENTRE

Adult Day Service 9 AM

FRIDAY

50 PLUS CENTRE

50+ Fitness 1-10 AM

Coffee Bean 10:15-noon

Chair Yoga 10:30-11:30 PM

Canasta 1-4 PM

Knitting 1-3 PM

OUR SPACE

Artisan’s Showcase Open House

PEACHLAND COMMUNITY CENTRE

Indoor Walking 8-9 AM

Flow Yoga 9-10 AM

Creative Play Time 10 AM-noon

Myofascial Yoga 10:30-11:45 AM

Pilates Fusion 11 AM-noon

Pickleball 2.5-3.0 12:30-2:30 PM

Pickleball Drop-In (All Play)

2:45-4:30PM

PEACHLAND LEGION

Crib 1-3 PM

Fish & Chips $17.50

Quiz Night 6:30 PM

PEACHLAND LIBRARY

Cozy Stitch Group 1 PM

Adults Drop In

For information on more programs at Peachland Community Centre search on-line at peachland.ca/recguide. For additional information re: Pickleball lessons and games, contact Zoe at 250-767-2133.

NO HISTORY? KNOW HISTORY by RICHARD

SMITH

Peachland resident had a dangerous job during the Second World War

Hamish McNeil MBE was the Municipal CEO (clerk) after the war. He had a most dangerous and important job during World War 2 of ferrying aircraft of all kinds around the war zone including across the Atlantic and navigating DC3 aircraft full of paratroopers in operation “Varsity”.

For his outstanding military service he was awarded the MBE (Member of the British Empire) by King George VI. He had an orchard at the top of Princeton Avenue .His three daughters still live here.