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Fun Spring Fling fundraiser to support Elk Valley Air Cadets

The public is invited to shake off some of the winter blues and attend a Spring Fling fundraiser, Saturday, April 5.
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The Elk Valley Air Cadets were the recipients of two recent donations.

The public is invited to shake off some of the winter blues and attend a Spring Fling fundraiser, Saturday, April 5.

The event, organized by the Elk Valley Air Cadets Squadron Sponsoring Committee (EVAC SSC), will be held at the Michel-Natal Royal Canadian Legion in Sparwood, 8 pm to midnight, and will feature the music of Common Soul. Tickets are $15 in advance and available from members of the SSC, by calling SSC Treasurer Anne Thompson at 250-425-2355, or for $20 at the door the evening of the fundraiser.

SSC Chair, Yvette Doratty, said this is the third year for the fundraiser and it’s always a lot of fun.

“It’s really a wonderful way to raise money for the cadet squadron. There’s a ton of prizes donated from businesses and individuals in the Elk Valley, a 50/50 draw, and a nice buffet, plus you get to enjoy a great band. It’s a great evening and even better because you know all money raised will go towards funding the activities our cadets participate in, like trips, sports nights, and campouts.”

Doratty says the Air Cadets program is a very positive one. She has seen a strong response from the public to support it because the squadron is so active in the community.

“The cadets don’t just meet once a week and that’s it. They do so much for the community, and it’s being recognized more and more,” she explained. “In the last year the squadron has helped with repairs to the Wapiti Ski Hill, the Sparwood Lions TV Auction, selling poppies for Remembrance Day, as well as participating in the Remembrance Day, Coal Miner Days, and Elkford Wildcat Days parades. They also help out the Arts and Heritage Society with the Christmas tree lighting event and the trade fair.

“It’s a very positive environment for teens. Everyone is included and treated so well. I’m grateful, as a parent, my boys have had this experience, and that our community continues to support this wonderful program.”

The squadron is based out of Sparwood, but is open to teens ages 12 to 18 from across the Elk Valley. The cadets learn marksmanship, first aid, drill, survival skills, and public speaking, and can even receive their pilot’s licence through the program. Summer camps are free to attend as are all other trips, training and uniforms. The program also promotes physical fitness, leadership and community involvement.

Drill nights are held every Wednesday at the Eagles Hall in Sparwood, from 6 to 9 pm. For more information, contact the squadron commanding officer, Captain Murray Clow, at 250-425-1271.