Memory Tree
The Ashcroft and District Hospice Society’s Memory Tree is now up inside the Ashcroft post office, which is still open. There are ornaments and pens beside the tree, and you can leave a message on the tree in memory of a cherished family member, friend, or pet who remains forever in your heart. Volunteers from the Hospice Society will be there in person from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Thursday, Dec. 12 and Friday, Dec. 13; donations to the Hospice society are gratefully accepted.
Breakfast with Santa
The Savona Community Association is hosting a pancake breakfast with Santa from 9 to 11 a.m. on Sunday, Dec. 15 at the Savona Community Hall. Breakfast is $10 per person (children 6 and under are free), and includes scrambled eggs, sausage, ham, pancakes, juice, and coffee.
Skate with Santa
The Ashcroft Terminal is once again hosting a free Skate with Santa session at the Drylands Arena in Ashcroft, from 3:30 to 5 p.m. on Saturday, Dec. 14. Come on by for free skating with Santa, Mrs. Claus, and the Grinch, a snack, and a chance to find out from the Big Man himself whether you’re on his naughty or nice list this year.
Pet photos with Santa
Who’s a good dog, then? If your four-legged friend is on Santa’s nice list (or even if they're not), bring him or her over to the Ashcroft HUB from 10 a.m. to noon on Sunday, Dec. 15 for a picture with Santa Claus.
Cache Creek lights contest
Cache Creek is holding a Christmas Lights Contest, and residents can decorate their homes for a chance to win prizes and showcase their holiday spirit. Sign up by Dec. 16 at https://bit.ly/4gnkfCZ or pick up a form at the village office. Voting takes place online from 5 p.m. on Dec. 17 to 7:30 p.m. on Dec. 19, and on the 19th you can also vote in person at the village office (and/or enjoy a cup of hot cocoa) from 4 to 8 p.m. First prize is a local gift card worth $100; second prize is a $50 card, and third prize is a $20 card.
Coffee’s On
Coffee’s On sessions are back, and taking place at the 70 Mile Community Hall every Tuesday from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m.; the next one will be on Dec. 17. The event features coffee, a by-donation lunch, and a chance to get together with others for conversation and camaraderie. Anyone interested in “stepping things up” a bit with crafts, art, card games, and more is encouraged to bring their ideas (and themselves!) to the sessions.
If you are interested in helping out by providing soup, bread, or desserts on specific dates, call Sally at (250) 395-0278.
Hope and Healing service at St. Alban’s
Do you find this time of year difficult? Are you lonely, missing a loved one, or just sad?
All around us we see festive Christmas lights and beautiful displays of trees and ornaments, special foods and gifts; everywhere we turn, we encounter people and places carrying an unrelenting message that shouts at top volume, “’Tis the season to be jolly!” Yet we recognize that the month of December is also difficult for many people, for many different reasons. Christmas may not be as joyful for us as it seems to be for others.
If this is a difficult time, join us at St. Alban’s Church in Ashcroft on Wednesday, Dec. 18 at 4 p.m. for a time of readings, prayers, and fellowship. We will be lighting our Advent wreath and enjoying the increasing light. We will share stories and encourage each other, then end the service with a time of fellowship in the hall.
Many blessings at this time! From The Rev. Linda LaGroix
Suddenly One
The Suddenly One: Building Connections program has returned, and takes place every other Thursday from 1:30 to 3 p.m. at the Ashcroft Library (private meeting room at the back). The next meeting will be on Thursday, Dec. 19.
Suddenly One is for men and women of all ages who suddenly find themselves alone. The event will feature coffee, tea, and conversation, with people able to share their thoughts, stories, and experiences surrounding loss and living alone. There is no agenda; topics and activities are up to the participants, all in an accessible, respectful, and confidential space.
There is no cost to take part, and participants can attend as many or as few sessions as they would like. For more information, email ashcroft.hospice@gmail.com.
Savona Christmas light-up
Savona is all lit up for the holidays, and you can vote for your favourite light display from now until Dec. 20. Simply make a note of your choice (street address) and leave your vote in the drop-box at Miller’s Store.
Ashcroft Library book sale
The Ashcroft Library is holding a sale through the month of December, with assorted books, CDs, DVDs, audiobooks, and magazines available for purchase via cash donation. Homeschooling families can bring their own box or tote and fill it for just $5. All proceeds from the sale go to library programs and programming.
Adult badminton
Badminton season has started again, with free drop-in sessions taking place every Thursday from 7:30 to 9:30 p.m. at the Cache Creek Community Hall. Adults from throughout the region are welcome to attend; for more information call (250) 457-9164.
