Beaver Valley Arena 50th Anniversary

Celebrating 50 Years of Community Spirit: A Look Back at Beaver Valley Arena's Milestone Event

After seven months of meticulous planning, the Regional District of Kootenay Boundary (RDKB) recently welcomed over 200 people to the Beaver Valley Arena to celebrate its 50th anniversary. The event was a spectacular showcase of community spirit, camaraderie, and heartfelt appreciation for the volunteers who have been the arena's backbone over the past five decades.

From the moment the doors opened, the arena buzzed with excitement. The first 150 guests were greeted with a nostalgic treat – original BV Minor Hockey Jerseys and buttons – setting the tone for an evening rich in history and shared memories. Food by Kim's Creations and drinks from Vintage Pour kept attendees energized and in high spirits throughout the festivities.

To celebrate the arena’s past, present, and future, the event featured a visual tribute with photos of past hockey champions, highlights from the Beaver Valley Master Plan, and foundational moments from the Beaver Valley Skating Club. Fun facts revealed during the evening was that the arena originally cost $864,338 to build with 58% coming from the Provincial and Federal governments. Today, the same build would cost an estimated $15 million, underscoring its value and significance to the community. The Beaver Valley Minor Hockey Association was also created in 1980 with 500 kids participating in the league.

One of the evening's highlights was the Family Game Show by Altitude Entertainment. The lively and interactive show brought together families and friends, sparking laughter and friendly competition – a poignant reminder of the arena's role as a community hub.

As the evening progressed, attention turned to the true heroes of the Beaver Valley Arena – the volunteers. During the Volunteer Appreciation Presentation, hosted by the ever-charismatic Wayne Kelly, stories of dedication and community service were shared, drawing heartfelt applause from the crowd.

Jayme Fowler, Beaver Valley Recreation’s event coordinator, expressed her gratitude to say, "Volunteers are the backbone of the Beaver Valley Arena, providing essential support that ensures its smooth operation year after year. Their dedication and hard work are the foundation of our community's spirit, and we owe them a debt of gratitude."

A significant moment of the night was the unveiling of the new electric Zamboni machine. This state-of-the-art equipment promises to enhance the arena's operations with its eco-friendly technology. "The introduction of the electric Zamboni represents our commitment to innovation and sustainability," said Mark Daines, RDKB’s manager of facilities and recreation. "It's a step forward that not only benefits our facility but also reflects our dedication to a greener future for the community."

Special thanks go to the event’s sponsors: Teck, Columbia Power, Columbia Basin Trust, RDKB, City of Trail, and Hall Printing.