Vernon
Vernon deploying sensors around the North Okanagan that will detect wildfires Sensors a 'game changer' High-tech sensors are being deployed around the North Okanagan that will detect wildfires and alert officials. Several wood piles were set ablaze at Vernon's Ellison Provincial Park Friday as part of a test of the equipment, that passed with flying colours. The sensors by SenseNet Inc. continuously monitor the environment and identify anomalies that often precede a fire outbreak. A warning is then sent to fire officials who can use the system's cameras to see the area immediately. Hamed Noori, SenseNet founder and CEO, said the closer a fire is to a sensor, the quicker it will be detected. He said a fire one kilometre away will be detected in less than 10 minutes. The system uses seven different sensors to detect anomalies that can indicate a wildfire. “We have been developing this technology over the last four years, and because it is literally going to save lives we don't want to rush it,” Noori said, adding the testing conducted Friday was a “validation of the system which is operational right now. We can install a sensor wherever we want and it will pick up a fire in a matter of minutes.” Wes Brassard, with Vernon Fire Rescue Services, said the sensors are “a game changer.” “The most crucial thing we have out there is responding to a fire in a timely manner,” Brassard said. “The quicker we can respond to something, the faster we can put it out or control it or make appropriate operational decisions.” Brassard said this technology has been needed for a long time. “Responding to a fire early on is really based on the detection...so this system can give us that early wildfire detection,” he said. Having cameras mated with the sensors is a huge benefit to fire crews. “We have the ability to view these cameras from an iPad or from our TVs at the fire hall and then we can be making decisions based on what we are seeing.” Sensors were in place last summer when a wildfire broke out at Ellison Provincial Park, but crews were not immediately alerted. “Our system was still in the learning stages. We went back in the data and we did notice that there was an anomaly detected roughly 20 minutes before the first report, but as we were still in the testing stages we weren't alerted,” Brassard said. Noori said the system is now fully operation.
Vernon historian uncovers footage from Whistler in the late 1960s Skiing Whistler 50 yrs ago Today's time machine takes us back to Whistler in the late 1960s. Vernon historian and videographer Francois Arseneault has unearthed colour footage of the B.C. ski hill from more than 50 years ago. Whistler was originally conceived as part of the bid to win the 1968 Winter Olympics. Despite the bid failing, construction started, and the resort opened in January 1966. “It has since become the largest ski resort in North America and has the greatest uphill lift capacity. But 55 years ago, it was just Vancouver’s ski hill,” says Arseneault. “Possibly inspired by the likes of Warren Miller and his famous ski films of the day, Vancouver resident Imre Michalik, set out to capture his own ski film with friends,” says Arseneault. Michalik emigrated from Hungary in 1956 and, after some years in Toronto, relocated to Vancouver and was employed as a draftsman at H.A. Simons and as a realtor on the North Shore. “He was a brilliant photographer and left many works of his time in the mountains. He was an accomplished mountaineer and rock climber making many ascents in Squamish, Quebec in the U.S.A.,” says Arseneault. Michalik passed away in 2018, his wife a few years later. They had no children. “These reels, forgotten in a rental storage locker, may have ended up in the landfill otherwise. I’m honoured to be the custodian of them all and look forward to sharing more,” says Arseneault. The footage appears to have been captured over several visits to the hill between 1967 and 1970, making it some of the best amateur early footage of Whistler. “At the 3:40 mark, you’ll spot an orange sign alluding to the 1976 Olympic bid. At the 6:16 mark, look for a ski patrol member wearing a brown and yellow waist pack, this may be helpful in determining a specific year it was in use, as later ski patrol members wore the more familiar red jackets with white cross,” Arseneault said. “At the 7:13 mark, a sign post at the 6,400-foot elevation lists some nearby runs, some may have changed names since then. Look for a Yamaha-sponsored skier at 7:49 showing off some skills. Perhaps he is a well known skier of the day. Incredibly, Imre captured footage of a skier caught in an avalanche at the 12:11 mark. He appears to be safe.” Arseneault is always looking for more information on the vintage footage he digs up, and he encourages people to add their input in the comments section on his Youtube page. Anyone who may have old 16 mm or 8 mm film footage of the Vernon and Okanagan area is invited to email Arseneault at [email protected].
Vernon church spreads Christmas cheer, hopes to get permanent location Singing for the season Photo: Jon Manchester Downtown Vernon business were treated to some seasonal sounds this week as Kevin Porte and Elaine Medina spread their Christmas cheer. The pastors from the Pentecostal Missionary Church of Christ sang familiar Christmas carols and raised funds to get their church a permanent home. Currently, the fledgling church meets at the People Place. "Our mission is to provide children and youth with activities that build positive relationships, strengthen confidence, and further personal skill development," the church says. The church is involved in youth mentoring, kids camps, sports events, feeding the homeless and more.
Vernon Community Arts Centre holds community appreciation market Artsolutely says thanks Photo: Castanet file photo The Artsolutely Artisan Market wants give a big thank you to the community. So, the Vernon Community Arts Centre is holding a community appreciation event Saturday, from noon to 5 p.m. Sheri Kunzli, VCAC marketing and events co-ordinator, says this year's market is one of the largest ever, featuring 42 artists. “It is our biggest fundraiser of the year and 20 per cent of all the sales go directly back into the arts centre,” Kunzli said. Funds raised help support the numerous programs offered by the VCAC as well has helping to maintain the building in Polson Park. Appreciation day activities include hot chocolate, prizes, kids art activities, a food truck, winter carnival games, live art demos, music and more. Established in 2006, Artsolutely has grown to be one of the biggest art events in the Valley, featuring more than 10,000 hand-made, unique items made from glass, clay, wood, metal, paper, mixed media, and more. Artsolutely runs through Dec. 23. For more information, visit their website.
Santa Claus photo op at Friesens Countrytyme Gardens on Saturday Pose for pix with Santa Photo: Canadian Press file photo The Jolly Old Elf will be at Friesens Countrytyme Gardens Saturday. The free event takes place at the Coldstream eatery, 9172 Kalamalka Rd., from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Even though it is Santa’s busiest time of the year, he will be making time to take pictures with kids families and even pets. “The pictures are free because you or Santa’s elves will take pictures with your own camera,” said Aaron Luprya. “Come in decked out in your favourite Christmas jammies and get a free picture with Santa. Then stop by our store for breakfast, lunch, a sweet treat or some hot chocolate.” There will be a donation box to support the local food bank with cash or non-perishable food item.
Police dog tracks dog theft suspect on Middleton Mountain in Vernon Trio of thieves collared Photo: Vernon RCMP A police dog made quick work of tracking down a theft suspect on Middleton Mountain on Thursday. Three people were taken into custody by police after a report of suspicious activity on 11th Avenue in Vernon about 4 a.m. Vernon received a report of three people stealing from a home on the 1000 block. "Officers quickly moved in and located all three suspects. Two of the individuals were arrested without incident, while the third made a run for it and fled from police on foot," says Vernon RCMP spokesperson Const. Chris Terleski. "Once Police Service Dog Phantom was on scene, it didn't take him long to track the man to his hiding spot, where he was eventually taken into custody." The three individuals are believed to be linked to a recent string of property offences that include theft of vehicles and break and enter to community mailboxes, says Terleski. All three were released on conditions and are scheduled to appear in court at a future date. Multiple investigations will be submitted to the BC Prosecution Service for assessment of charges. "We'll continue to combat property crime, but we need the public's help," says Terleski. "Lock and remove all valuables from your vehicle and never leave a spare key inside. Put away tools, bikes, and other valuables and make sure doors, windows, sheds, and other outbuildings are locked and secure. Look out for your neighbours and report any suspicious activity immediately and directly to police so we can investigate it."
Greater Vernon Water switches to Kal Lake source as Duteau reservoirs low Reservoirs running low Photo: RDNO/file photo Low levels in the Duteau Creek reservoir system are forcing a change in water source for many Greater Vernon Water customers. GVW says the Kalamalka Lake water source will be supplied to area of Coldstream and Vernon (see map) usually served by the Duteau Creek source. "Duteau Creek reservoirs are lower than normal for this time of year, due to a lack of fall precipitation," the water utility says. "To conserve water in those reservoirs, some areas have already been changed to the Kalamalka Lake source. This change expands those areas." Customers who are not usually on the Kalamalka water source, especially those who have in-home water treatment systems or aquariums, may notice their water is harder and has higher alkalinity and pH. GVW will notify customers of any further changes. Photo: RDNO
Vernon program introduces immigrant and refugee kids to Canada's national pastime Welcome to Canada's game It doesn't get much more Canadian than kids playing hockey. And on Saturday, youths from a variety of nationalities who may not be familiar with the sport will get a free introduction to the national pastime at Vernon's OTR training rink. “The No.1 thing is social inclusion,” says Mission Hill Elementary teacher Chad Soon. “That's the driving thing behind this whole program, is trying to get these kids to feel like they are included and at home here in Canada.” The majority of the kids who will hit the ice are immigrants and refugees, but there are also some local Indigenous children whose families might not be able to afford the experience otherwise. The Hockey 4 Youth program was founded by Moezine Hasham in 2015. Hasham's family immigrated to Canada in the 1970s from Uganda, and he will be at the skating rink to encourage participants. The event is also in honour of Vernon's Larry Kwong, who was the first person of Chinese decent to play in the NHL, in the 1940s. “That's what drew Moe to our little town,” said Soon, adding the program is typically held in larger centres. “We have all kinds of different languages represented.” Since it started, Hockey 4 Youth has seen 700 children and youth from 41 countries take part, including from Syria, Brazil, Afghanistan, Yemen, India, Ukraine, Ethiopia, Vietnam, Sri Lanka, Jamaica, Somalia, Cuba, the Philippines and Mexico. Soon says the program is free, with all gear and coaching provided to the youths. There is also an off-ice component to the charitable program. “There are field trips, team-building activities and stuff like that,” says Soon. When Hasham was six years old, a neighbour gifted him with hockey gear, something that changed his life and lead to the formation on the Hockey 4 Youth program, says Soon. “He fell in love with the game, so he started Hockey 4 Youth to pay it forward.” For more information on the program, visit the Hockey 4 Youth website.
KingFisher Boats provides Christmas hampers for Archway society A tradition of giving Photo: Kingfisher Boats Vernon's KingFisher Boats has continued its tradition of giving by delivering 15 Christmas hampers to the Archway Society for Domestic Peace. "Bringing joy to our community, especially during the festive season, holds a special place in the hearts of the KingFisher family,” said KingFisher volunteer Katherine Chappell. “We extend our heartfelt appreciation to our generous suppliers and local businesses who have joined hands with us in spreading warmth and holiday cheer.” Archway, formerly the Vernon Women’s Transition House Society, provides a range of services for survivors of domestic and sexual violence, including safe shelter, counselling, child and youth advocacy, outreach services, and collaborative community projects. “Enriching lives is not just a commitment, it's a tradition we cherish, and we are grateful for the opportunity to make a positive impact once again this year,” said KingFisher's Noa Hamer. This year's delivery was made possible through the support of local businesses, including The Hot Room and Bloom Salon, who contributed to make the holidays brighter for those in need. For more information about Archway, visit its website.
Vernon man badly burned in drug fire elects to be tried by judge alone on weapons charges Facing weapons charges Photo: Darren Handschuh A Vernon man with a criminal past has elected to be tried by judge alone on his latest spate of charges. James Karl Iverson faces several charges, including two counts of uttering threats, possession of a weapon, and use of an imitation firearm. Iverson will return to court Dec. 18 to fix a date. He is also facing two charges of breach of a release order. In March 2017, Iverson pleaded guilty to criminal negligence causing bodily harm and arson by negligence in an Aug. 14, 2015, incident at an apartment building on Okanagan Avenue. The fire took place in the bathroom of a unit at 3413 Okanagan Ave. Iverson and another man were attempting to make hash oil. The two “were engaging in a process whereby they were extracting marijuana oil from marijuana shake,” said then Crown prosecutor Juan O'Quinn. The two were using butane to process the marijuana oil, leading to a significant amount of the gas in the small space and, when someone turned on the fan, there was an explosion and fire. “The explosion was so great, it reached into the ceiling and blew off some of the eaves,” O'Quinn said, adding that $170,000 damage was caused to the apartment. “Other tenants in the building were put in jeopardy that day as were his girlfriend's children (who were in the apartment).” Both Iverson and the other man present were severely burned. Iverson suffered third-degree burns to 85 per cent of his body and damaged his esophagus and lungs, court was told. After the fire, the accused was put on life support and into an induced coma for almost a month. His friend suffered burns to 25 per cent of his body.

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