55 years ago (1959):

The Kootenay Park acquired an ambulance and utility vehicle to be stationed in Radium Hot Springs. Kootenay National Park had three fully qualified first aid men at the time. They were Hans Nehrilings, William Fika and Cecil F. Brown.

 

50 years ago (1964):

Wilmer lost a landmark that added charm to the town. The water-tower stood for many years unused. It was standing before 1913, which was said to be proof that it was the first piped water system in the valley. A modern pumphouse was erected over the well and the contractor was Bror Carlson.

 

45 years ago (1969):

The local “March for Millions” netted nearly $2,000. 211 started and nearly 200 finished. A.J. Kraayvanger organized the march. There were six residents from Canal Flats that marched from Canal Flats to Fairmont Hot Springs — Mrs. Leonard Bond, Mrs. Joe Renwick and Betty Renwick, Terry Severty and Debby and Colin Cartwright. Marchers from Fairmont to Invermere were too many to mention, but the youngest was Casey Harmsworth, nearly four years old, and Mrs. Paul Christensen, a grandmother of 15.

 

40 years ago (1974):

Mr. and Mrs. Alex Merriman of The Colonist in Victoria paid a fraternal visit to The Valley Echo on Friday, May 3rd. Mr. Merriman was the editor of the Colonist magazine section. They were the guests of Mr. and Mrs. Albert Cooper at Horsethief Creek Ranch while in the area.

 

30 years ago (1984):

Valley Hair Styling opened for business. Susan Halverson, owner of Valley Hair Styling, was well-known in the valley. Susan grew up here and, after graduating from high school, she attended Selkirk College in Nelson. She completed a hair dressing course and holds a barber’s licence as well as a hair dressing licence.

 

20 years ago (1994):

Reaching a milestone, Brandi Edwards, an 11-year-old Fairmont resident, shot a score of 98, breaking the 100 mark at Fairmont’s Mountainside golf course.

 

15 years ago (1999):

The Insurance Corporation of British Columbia was no longer allowing Alberta tourists to get B.C. driver’s licences unless they could prove they did not have a suspended Alberta licence.

 

10 years ago (2004):

“No” remained the popular stated opinion on the Jumbo Resort proposal in the valley. On April 28th, more than three quarters of the people who spoke out about the ski resort during the District of Invermere’s public meeting stated opposition to the project.

 

5 years ago (2009):

Emergency services planned to have car crashes, sirens and flashing lights at David Thompson Secondary School on May 13th to educate graduating students on the dangers of drinking and driving.