On Saturday March 14, 2026, members of the Oliver curling community gathered to mark the end of another fantastic year of curling. The event started off with Glow Curling, where teams of three were in the dark (especially the curlers who don't usually curl with a stick) trying to hit the lit up broom. Everyone enjoyed the novel format, and look forward to more curling like this in the future. To see more images, have a look at More Glow Curling.
The action then moved upstairs. A delicious dinner of chicken, pulled pork sliders, mac & cheese and salads, with fresh fruit and cookies for dessert was catered by Oliver Eats. Around a hundred people attended, including nine Honourary Life Members who were invited as the guests of honour.
After everyone had eaten their fill (and taken leftovers to enjoy later), the awards part of the evening began with a speech from Club President Diane Tetreault who welcomed the Honourary Life Members and sponsors Ted and Lorraine Kane from Riverstone Estate Winery. She then proceeded to thank the many people who have contributed to the success of the Oliver Curling Club this year, including Ed Waugh, our ice maker, and his helpers, the Board, including outgoing members Arnie Janzen, Brad Dufour, Rick Martin and John Surovy. She pointed out that we are looking for new members to be Directors on the Board, and that the Annual General Meeting will be held on May 27, 2026. She continued to thank all the people who have specific roles, as well as the League Reps for their contributions. To read the full text of Diane's remarks, read President's Remarks. Cathy Pidduck spoke next, pointing out new initiatives that she has noticed such as the powerwashing of the outside, the Art Gallery in the lobby, more attractive posters and new fundraising initiatives such as the meat draws with the Elks, and the Recycle-It! program. She thanked the Board of Directors for encouraging these and other improvements.
The Awards took over the next part of the program. All the leagues, except for the Monday Fun Stick League, recognize the teams that finish at the top after a season of fun and spirited competition. To see the winners in each league, go to League Winners.
The culmination of the awards ceremony was the induction of our newest Honorary Life Member. This award was presented by Pat Batchelor and Wanda Casorso. Their remarks began with: Honorary Life Membership is one of the highest recognitions our club can bestow. It is reserved for individuals whose long-standing commitment, service, sportsmanship, and dedication have helped shape not only our programs and facilities, but also the spirit and culture of the Oliver Curling Club. This award recognizes many years of consistent effort, participation, and contribution, and tonight we are proud to present it to a truly deserving nominee: Donna Cooke. To read the full presentation, go to Donna Cooke.
The presentation ended with details about some of the fundraising initiatives that have been taken on this year. The Recycle-It Challenge, organized by Sherry Stackhouse, brought in $1178 to the club. The Tetreault team brought in the most money and donated their prize back to the club. Ken Giffen's team won the random draw and also donated the prize back. Next was the Hog Jar Challenge that earned close to $300 from January to March. Simone Douglas was the lucky rock hogger, and she also donated her prize back. Finally, Tracy Marcy won the evening's 50/50 draw and took home $297.50. The final remarks were from Denis Buckley who wanted to recognize Diane Tetreault for a wonderful year as President, and hoped that she continues next year (she will).
(Glow Curling photograph courtesy of John Chapman, other photographs courtesy of Linda Schroter)
