February 07, 2019

My blog entry “Seniors Speak From the Ledge” was a compilation by seven (7) members of the original Kootenay Columbia Seniors Housing Cooperative (KCSHC) to outline the success and history of the Grandview Project in Castlegar, B.C. The project experienced financial difficulty and an ad hoc committee felt that statements of fact were necessary to permit the public to understand the demise of the cooperative and allow those, who may be planning development of seniors housing, to limit any similar financial exposures.

I acted as the Project Manager for the project from 2005 to early 2014. I have no official position in the project at this time and I am merely providing this update for the benefit of those who may have interest as to where the Project is today.

I personally needed to review all this for my own perspective and closure.

A) Site Preparation

Project was started two (2) years after conceptual designs were prepared by Lubor Trubka & Associates, Vancouver, B.C. (see photos below)

Clearing of Grandview Drive looking North March 22, 2007

Grandview land clearing March 13, 2007

Grandview site grading June 06, 2007

Grandview site grading June 06, 2007

B) Discussions with City of Castlegar (CoC)

The original enquiry for zoning of the property was presented to Council by the sponsoring society the Doukhobor Cultural Association (DCA) in 2005. Comments from some Council members included :

1. “You have to be out of your mind to think that anyone would want to live on that property located halfway to Trail!”
2. Where would the people come from?”

C) Approval of the subdivision was in 2007. Here is the current development status (see photos):

1. 55 seniors friendly, ground level units were proposed
   1. 47 units have been constructed, (financed by seniors) as of February 07, 2019
   2. 8 lots have been purchased by a Developer who had negotiated with the former KCSHC to construct the first stage of a 238 multi-care facility. The 8 lots are adjacent to the Chateau Grandview which was the name given to that project
2. 57 residential lots were proposed
   1. 39 lots were sold prior to bankruptcy
   2. Balance are being sold by the Mortgager, Heritage Credit Union (HCU)
      1. Status of 11 lots is unknown but it is possible that a developer may have purchased them
   3. 41 houses constructed and occupied (as of February 07, 2019)
      1. 5 under construction
3. 44 lot potential, phase II planned future residential subdivision
   1. KCSHC negotiated a trade with the Project Contractor, Marwest Industries Ltd., (MIL) in exchange for unpaid costs. MiL was able to complete a purchase of the land parcel with the Trustee, Moroso & Co., (M&C) with the result:
      1. 28 lot first phase is under construction
      2. Information provided by MiL is that a large portion are spoken for
4. 13 acre reserve lot (still legally owned by KCSHC) for Supportive, Assisted and Residential Care Project they called Chateau Grandview
   1. 5 acre parcel is serviced and zoned for 205 unit project
   2. 62 unit Chateau Grandview Supportive Living Project was negotiated as a first phase of a 82 unit project. Drawings and construction estimates were completed with a Developer. Canada Mortgage & Housing (CMHC), British Columbia Housing (BCH) and Columbia Basin Trust (CBT) would not guarantee a construction loan. Take-out financing was available from three (3) mortgage firms. Further negotiations were interrupted by the bankruptcy in 2014.
   3. Drawings are available for the entire project by the Developer / KCSHC
   4. Land is under bankruptcy dated 2014, with mortgages to:
      1. $450,000, original 1st mortgage, to HCU
      2. $1,200,000, original 2nd mortgage, to 51 members of the KCSHC
   5. The status of the bankruptcy is not known (February 07, 2019) as there has not been any meetings with the Trustee since the initial one in November 2014

Perhaps the populace of a growing Castlegar have recognized that the location (despite the original opinion of some Council members) is desirable and suitable (all photos taken February 07, 2019):

Corner of 16th Avenue and Grandview Drive looking South on 16th Avenue. Residential Housing  16 th Avenue looking South into possible future Chateau Grandview site Corner of 16th and Grandview Drive looking East. Residential Housing on left side and Seniors Housing on Right Corner of 16th Avenue and Grandview Drive looking South. Seniors Housing both sides Grandview Drive looking South. Seniors Housing both sides and Chateau Grandview future possible site on right side

Grandview Drive looking North with Phase II Residential Subdivision under construction

D) Attempt to resurrect the project using Katrine Conroy NDP MLA for West Kootenay

Since the bankruptcy meeting in November, 2014, all active administration of KCSHC has ceased. There are no Directors nor any meetings of any kind as legally the KCSHC does not have any liquid assets to function as an entity.

In 2017, some of the surviving members of the original ad hoc committee approached MLA, Katrine Conroy’s office to discuss any possible method to restart the Chateau Grandview. The committee was limited to attendance of three (3) members and met with Adena Brown, Executive Assistant to Hon. Katrine Conroy, October 03, 2017 at the constituency office. Here is a brief synopsis of the event (the email record starts with the most recent email to the top of the chain):

“………From: Brown, Edena MCF:EX [mailto:Edena.Brown@gov.bc.ca]
Sent: October 26, 2017 9:01 AM
To: ‘Elmer Verigin’
Cc: ‘a-k-bigs@shaw.ca’; ‘willenstedt@yahoo.com’; ‘marilyn.verigin@shaw.ca’; ‘mqhuchet@gmail.com’; ‘nora@jukes.ca’
Subject: RE: Meeting request

Hello Elmer,

Thank you for your email.

I don’t have much to update at this point however I am continuing to work on your file. There is a backlog of requests flooding into Victoria at this time and things are slowly moving forward.

Will stay in touch.

Cheers,
Edena

Edena Brown, Executive Assistant to Hon. Katrine Conroy

Minister of Children and Family Development and Minister Responsible for CBT, CPC and CRT

Cell: 250-480-8627 Email: Edena.Brown@gov.bc.ca……………….”

“…………From: Elmer Verigin [mailto:emverigin@shaw.ca]
Sent: Tuesday, October 24, 2017 4:43 PM
To: Brown, Edena MCF:EX
Cc: a-k-bigs@shaw.ca; willenstedt@yahoo.com; marilyn.verigin@shaw.ca; mqhuchet@gmail.com; nora@jukes.ca
Subject: RE: Meeting request

Edena

Do you have an update on this matter?

Thanks

Elmer…………….”

“………………From: Brown, Edena MCF:EX [mailto:Edena.Brown@gov.bc.ca]
Sent: October 3, 2017 2:14 PM
To: ‘Elmer Verigin’
Cc: ‘a-k-bigs@shaw.ca’; ‘willenstedt@yahoo.com’; ‘marilyn.verigin@shaw.ca’; ‘mqhuchet@gmail.com’; ‘nora@jukes.ca’
Subject: RE: Meeting request

Thank you Elmer, Monique and Alden.

It was very nice to talk to you all this morning. I will work on presenting your case and will be in touch if I have any questions.

Cheers,
Edena……………….”

“…………………….From: Elmer Verigin [mailto:emverigin@shaw.ca]
Sent: Tuesday, October 3, 2017 11:27 AM
To: Brown, Edena MCF:EX
Cc: a-k-bigs@shaw.ca; willenstedt@yahoo.com; marilyn.verigin@shaw.ca; mqhuchet@gmail.com; nora@jukes.ca
Subject: Meeting request

Adena:

Thank you for meeting with Monique, Alden and I this morning.

The rendering of the proposed Chateau Grandview is appended.

The successful Developer that we were working with was Casey Van Dongen of Tri-City Contracting Ltd from Kamloops

He had advanced to the stage of:

1. Drawings for a total development of:
2. Supportive Living
3. Assisted Living
4. Residential Care
5. Operational contract with H & H Total Care
6. Total dated pricing for construction and rental rates

It is our recommendation that the B.C. Government consider this “shovel ready” project to meet the local strong demand for seniors housing.

The residents at Grandview are more than prepared to work with whoever may be able to assist in advancing this project to fruition.

Should you have any further questions, do not hesitate to contact those in attendance and the those that are copied on this email

Elmer…………………..”

After the response from Adena, October 26, 2017, there was no further responses from Katrine Conroy’s office and so I sent this email:

“……………..From: Elmer Verigin [mailto:emverigin@shaw.ca]
Sent: Saturday, October 20, 2018 8:45 AM
To: Brown, Edena MCF:EX <Edena.Brown@gov.bc.ca>; Conroy.MLA, Katrine <Katrine.Conroy.MLA@leg.bc.ca>
Cc: willenstedt@yahoo.com; marilyn.verigin@shaw.ca; mqhuchet@gmail.com; nora@jukes.ca; Alden Bigsby <allbigs@shaw.ca>
Subject: RE: Meeting request

Katrine and Edena

I am making contact on my own but sending copies to the other participants in this effort

It has been almost a year since we last heard from your offices…………………………..?????

I recall when the NDP was in opposition and how well your office did to address the Grandview seniors with promises as to the changes that would take place when the NDP would become the government

I voted for you…………………………when in the past I did not!

The awaited change in government did take place.

What did not change is the arrogance that the former Liberals had toward our Castlegar seniors and that habit accepted by the current NDP / Green Parties

On behalf of Elmer, I am very disappointed!!!!!!

Have a good day.

Elmer……………”

I admit the above email is almost ‘Trumptisized’ but this is my blog. This is the response I received from their office:

“…………………From: Conroy.MLA, Katrine [mailto:Katrine.Conroy.MLA@leg.bc.ca]
Sent: October 22, 2018 11:25 AM
To: Elmer Verigin
Subject: RE: Meeting request

Good morning, Elmer:

Just so you know Edena is Katrine’s executive assistant in her capacity as the Minister’s assistant and no longer works on constituency related matters. .  At the time of your meeting we did not know what Edena’s role was to be as an executive assistant and was clarified after that meeting.  As well,  I am a little confused by the email below………….”

So Elmer Verigin sees no point in pursuing the matter as he does not have any authority at this time to carry on a discussion that does not seem to have any interest to our MLA.

E) An interesting final comment from Elmer Verigin

In retrospect, the idea that the DCA brought forward with sponsorship of a budget of $50,000 and was later undertaken by the KCSHC was that seniors may use their assets to receive seniors accommodations with a minimal dependence on governments. Some of the challenges were that the KCSHC did not have sufficient members who understood the complicated systems that make up the development business.

I will continue to refer to original KCSHC objective of a complex (Chateau Grandview) that was to include Supportive / Assisted / Residential Care complex as Chateau Grandview for this discussion.

1. Includes a complete serviced site (Lot 52), 1.75 ha adjacent to 16th Avenue and zoned for
   1. 82 Supportive Seniors Units
   2. 80 Assisted Seniors units
   3. 76 Residential Care Units
   4. Total 238 housing units
2. A legally connected parcel to Lot 52 of 5.22 ha in size on the lower level that includes the original Calamida Racetrack.
   1. In about 2010, B.C. Housing approached the KCSHC to apply for funding of about 50 units built with Manufactured Housing that would serve low income families
   2. Two (2) senior officials from BC Housing attended the site with KCSHC representatives
   3. City Council was made aware of this site visit as the application would need to applied for by the Municipality
   4. City of Castlegar did not send anyone
   5. BC Housing passed on the funding to another municipality
3. KCHSC had developed a plan with a Developer for a portion of the upper property for the 82 Supportive Seniors Units. I will show the perspective here again for clarity:
4. An appraisal was conducted by Adrian Rizzo, AACI, P.App., of Kent – Macpherson, Kelown, B.C., dated August 18, 2011.
   1. Land value of the upper portion was $1,500,000
   2. For the proposed first phase of 62 units, this would equate to $1,500,000 / 62 = $24,673.48 per unit. (As developers call this as $24,673.46 per door)
   3. Appraisals such as this usually are conducted as part of an on-going development
   4. It can be estimated that at a total developed 1.75 ha site an estimated extrapolation would be 238 units x $24,673.48 = $5,872,288.24
   5. The profits that the KCSHC anticipated would subsidize Care units for under privileged. A dream not to come true
5. At this time the project is in bankruptcy and the appraisals obtained by the Trustee range in the neighborhood of $700,000 far below the developed value.
6. The KCSHC was intending to create enough capital to be able to pay its Shareholders Loans and extraneous construction cost as listed in ‘Seniors Speak From the Ledge’
7. At this time after five (5) years since bankruptcy, I do much possibility that the second mortgage loan holders will receive any money. I also do not visualize that any Developer will foresee a Chateau Grandview development but a number of units similar to the 47 ground floor seniors units may take place.
8. It is unfortunate that the City of Castlegar, B.C. Housing, Ministry of Health (subsidized Residential care allocation for Castlegar), CMHC, CBT cannot be assembled by our local MLA to cooperate in a solution for Chateau Grandview because the potential of this project is not recognized. Statistics Canada suggests that the market is there

This blog has been temporarily updated to February 14, 2019. by Elmer Verigin

Happy Valentines Day!

In my previous blog on “You Now I Know What It Feels to Have a Diagnosis of Cancer dated 2017/08/24”, I detailed my journey through the early stages of diagnosis of infection on the inside surface of the bladder, the surgical removal of same (TURBT) and the treatment with the same virus that Tuberculosis is effectively treated. I start this as predicted, there will be a long journey!

It was after the 12th treatment that Cancer was again detected on the inside surface of my bladder. My last blog update noted that samples were sent to the Lab for analysis but the visual diagnosis by Dr. Robinson, was that I had Cancer and a “radical” treatment would be the likelihood of further treatment.

Yesterday, January 30, 2019 was the consultation with Dr. Robinson as follows:

1. Stage T1 which is interpreted as penetrating the Urothelium (inside lining) and entering the Lamina Propria (the next lining before the Muscle
2. Penetration of the Muscle must be prevented as that allows the Cancer to enter the rest of the body
3. The medical professionals cannot accurately assess the stage without radical surgery
4. Continuing TURBT treatment will allow the Cancer a stronger foothold and is not recommended
5. Recommended treatment is removal of the bladder and replacement with a part of my stomach.
6. Installation of a Stoma and an ILEAL OSTOMY procedure that requires an external bag to collect urine.

Options, of course is to continue with TURBT treatments but that is not a recommendation.

The risks are the same as in any invasive surgery but the experience is that no Chemotherapy nor Radiation will be required in the follow up.

I met with my family last night and all my four children and my 57 year partner agree on this operation.

We are advising DR. Robinson to proceed with the scheduling in Trail. The alternative is the University Hospital in Vancouver where 30 operations a month take place whereas Trail has only 2 a month. We all felt the attending Doctor is local and the follow up issues can be facilitated easier here in the Kootenays.

The operation is expected in March 2019.

Of course, I have a nervousness about this which is normal but I understand that there is an organization of Bladder Cancer patients in Canada that I can contact for information and support.

I will keep you posted.

January 30, 2019 0805 hours

February 08, 2019

Dr. Robinson called ne yesterday with the results of my CT Scan February 06, 2019

“You do not show any spread of Cancer as I noted from my visual diagnosis. All cancer is concentrated within you Bladder. good News!”

That was very comforting and I thanked him for calling.

So now I need to continue with the process of programming myself to accept whatever will come with the operation and accept a major change in my life. This is a personal journey and cannot be borrowed nor can it be shared. People come and tell me that they “understand how I feel” but this really does not help me but in fact I find it stressful. I wish people would just leave the conversation o “i wish you a successful operation and a speedy recovery.” that would suffice and be more comfort.

I still find it strange that I am confronted with all this but, I feel that I am rising to the occasion each day. I need my collection strength in body and soul and I know that is will get through it so that I can contribute more to this world and make it a better place for all.

1150 hours, February 08, 2019

Dr. Robinson mailed me a requisition for Lab Work. I took this today, February 12, 2019 at the Castlegar Hospital Clinic.

1510 hours, February 12, 2019

As of December 13, 2018

From the Owl:

Having a bath circa 1942 in house where I was born, eight (8) miles NE of Canora, near the former Phoneix country school

There has been so much excitement around the Verigins that we have a difficult time keeping everything in perspective. We have another grandchild wedding to attend in August 2019 and we are preparing to receive another two (2) great grand children to add to the three (3) healthy great grandsons. What a treat…we spoil them rotten and their parents can take them home to discipline them. All our grand children have significant others except our youngest Macy and she is not admitting to anything.

Marilyn and I still have difficult saying “NO” and still get involved which only means that we cannot retire from good purposes. We find that the second and third generations are leading the way and we hobble along and try to keep up.

The Baunya is operational at Whatshan Lake Retreat. It was my last “Dirty Hands Project” but very enjoyable as the younger generations impressed us with their commitment to volunteer.

Here we are having a “beer break”. The People Counter from the Expo ’86 Egyptian Pavilion is tracking all Users. You need to come to Whatshan Lake Retreat and see it for yourselves.

We are patiently waiting for Water Rights to approve our Bulk Water Licence so that we can complete our zoning application. Our pure water sales are intended to facilitate needed programs that are in the planning stages.

From the Pussycat:

Pussycat standing on bank behind her current house (circa 2012) at 145-4200 Grandview Drive, Castlegar, B.C.

On December 23, we will be celebrating 57 years of wedded bliss (???)

Wedding for Pussycat, Marilyn and Owl, Elmer at the Marigold in Saskatoon, December 23, 1961 with beloved sister Mary and brother-in-law John Khadekin in background

. Over these years we made 64 trips to see our beloved families and friends in Saskatchewan. As we leave the mountains, we look at each other, knowing that the skies will open up and we will pass through Alberta (blue??) and then travel down the country roads take us back ‘home’.

Dinner at the Blue Diamond, in Saskatoon, July 2018 with former Saskatoon Doukhobor Youth. Left to right: Dorthy and Mitch Ozeroff, Elmer, Betty Kabatoff, Ruth and John Sirota, Olive Epp, Marilyn, Donna Hunchak and Edna Wright.

Neither of us could choose as to which home we like best. We love them both, the people we know and have known are all responsible for making us the people we are today.

 Last Supper Doukhobor Cultural Association (DCA) November 2018

Our hearts are overflowing with the feelings and ideas we have exchanged with each and every person we have been in contact with. Not always has there been mutual understanding of topics at hand but there has been an understanding that each opinion must be heard and respected.

These are lessons that must be passed on to future generations to attain the elusive ‘World of PEACE’ we so desperately seek.

Enjoy the remaining days of 2018 and the beginning of the New Year.

Till we meet again!

Elmer and Marilyn

PRAYER CIRCLE FOR JONATHAN KALMAKOFF

AT BRILLIANT CULTURAL CENTER

1500 HOURS, SUNDAY, DECEMBER 09, 2018

Standard Doukhobor Greetings directed to Listeners, by Ensemble at BCC, led by Michael Kanigan (responses will take place on receiving end and not audible)

Elmer Verigin begins:

“:……..We welcome our friend, Jonathan Kalamakoff, to our Prayer Circle here at Brilliant Cultural Center in the Kootenays.

I also wish to welcome members of Jonathan’s family:

• Daughters Katherine (Katya), Emily (Milya) and son Jake (Yasha) at home with Jonathan
• Father Larry Kalmakoff and partner Oney Pollock in Canora
• Sisters Janna Kalmakoff in Squamish and Carrie Kalmakoff in Calgary

These participants before you, consist of the Kootenay Mens Choir, those who travelled to Veregin in 2017, as well as others who have just completed a Moleniya at the Brilliant Cultural Center earlier today.

Medical Professionals already know the power of Prayer in the healing process. Scientists are now convinced that there is a particle in every atom that directs its activity. Cell Biologists have also recognized that each of our cells actually communicate with Quantum Physics and therefore agree that there is a God. So it appears that all Religions and Science are finally together on the existence of God.

There never was any doubt amongst Doukhobors as to existence and powers of God and so they say:

Где есть Любовь, есть Бог (Where there is Love, there is God)

We have an abundance of Love in this room today.

I now will ask the assembled group to hold hands in what we will call a “ flat circle”

Jonathan, you may want to the same with whoever is with you in Regina, with your TV set and our ensemble completing your Prayer Circle.

Those in other parts can duplicate.

We are essentially enabling our collective spiritual strength, today, to be transmitted to you, Jonathan, on your continuing journey to receive a compatible kidney and a successful operation to a complete recovery. We ask God in Jesus’s Name, to assist you.

Individual members will recite six (6) psalms and followed by our ensemble singing a psalm, Lord’s Prayer Ochi Nosh and a hymn, My God is a Mountain Мой Бог Скала

You may close your eyes and permit the transmission of our vibrations and love to your entire self so that we are joined together in body and spirit.

I will now return to my place so that the circle will not be broken and we will begin………….”

• (Three (3) men followed by three (3) women will recite individual psalms
• The choir knows who the last Reciter is followed by
• The Lord’s Prayer is started by the appointed member and sung by the choir followed by reciting in unison
• The appointed person then starts Мой Бог Скала)

Elmer then steps out and:

“…………We have provided you with our spiritual message so that it may add to your positive mind and resolve to complete your personal journey successfully.With the love and support of your family, this challenge will be overcome…………

“…………..мы просим Бога о вашем хорошем здоровье (We request that God provides you with good health)

Пока мы встретимся снова (We will see you soon) ……………..”

Presented via bcc uscc You Tube at 1450 hours, Sunday, December 09. 2018

Updated by Elmer Verigin 0825 hours PST, Saturday, December 11, 2018

On Mon, Dec 10, 2018 at 11:36 PM Elmer Verigin <emverigin@shaw.ca> wrote:

Jonathan

We were all very much wrapped up in this spiritual effort

On behalf of all of us, The best to you!

Elmer

Sent from my iPhone On Dec 10, 2018, at 7:37 PM, Jonathan Kalmakoff <jon.kalmakoff@gmail.com> wrote:

Elmer,

A deep bow and my heartfelt gratitude to everyone who cared enough and took the time to participate in the wonderful prayer circle yesterday, and you in particular, for all the time and energy that undoubtedly went into organizing this. As my children and I watched and prayed along, here in Regina, we could feel your presence among us, despite the vast distance. My daughters were very moved by this show of community support, and I myself feel truly spiritually refreshed.  Thank you for sharing the Doukhobor message of love, peace and hope, and for including us in the broader Canada-wide Doukhobor community!!!

Please feel free to share this with the other choir members, if you so choose.

Sincerely,

Jon

Stories that have taken place with my friends keep drifting through my head from time to time and so I will recount this funny one that Walter Demoskoff told me.

Walter was a Logger that took him away from his family. He would leave Sunday night to return the Friday afternoon.

This particular Friday in midsummer was very hot. Walter liked cold beer and so he arrived home and took his beer down the basement to relax. He had no air conditioning and decided to strip right down to cool off.

His children ran into the house, screaming “a bear, a bear is in our yard, Dad something!”

So Walter ran up the stairs and grabbed an axe that was just in the porch. As he said after, “I had no idea what to expect and my immediate reaction was that I should have something to protect myself.”

“Where is the bear?” he called out to his children.

“Out by the Baunya” they pointed in that direction.

He admitted that it may have been a fool thing to do but at the time I was thinking of my family’s safety and off he went to the Baunya.

” I was coming around one end of the Baunya and the bear was coming from the other end and we were both were surprised to meet. I hollered while raising my axe as I was going to retreat. The bear obviously never saw a naked man with an axe before and we both retreated to opposite ends,” Walter recalled.

” I recovered slightly and decide to go to house not realizing that the bear was going the same direction as my dog Jeb started barking and scared the bear up a tree. I decided that the cold beer was waiting for me and cautioned the children to stay back and let the bear escape and went back to my beer.”

“Jeb thought that it was his responsibility to guard the yard and sat on his haunches to bark at bear. This carried on into the night making sleep an impossibility. Jeb barked until he went hoarse and I thought that would be the end of it.”

“Bill Voykin’s dog came from next door to continue the vigil and barking”

“At early dawn, I sleepily took my chainsaw from the back of my pickup and decide to fall the tree so the bear could get away. I neglected to do my normal looksee and sure enough, the tree fell on another and became a ‘leaner'”

“So I proceeded to fall the other tree and both fell downhill away from my house. The trees were about 60 feet high and so as the bear crawled out from the branches, he looked back at me and I swear he waved with his front paw as if to thank me and say goodbye.”

“I automatically waved back and watched him walk away.”

And so this is a story about my friend Walter and a bear.

Walter and his good wife Ann are both deceased now.

The incident happened about 1975.

Written by Elmer Verigin December 03, 2018

The surviving members of the Doukhobor Cultural Association (DCA) met at the Sandman Inn, Castlegar, B.C., to socialize and bid adieu to each other.

Extreme left to right clockwise:

1. 1. Joe Podovinikoff (back to photo)
   2. Betty Zarikoff
   3. Irene Tamelin
   4. Mary Picton
   5. Kathy Popoff
   6. Ann Zibin
   7. Lawrence Popoff
   8. Marilyn Verigin (standing)
   9. Wanita Hunter-Oglow (Caterer, standing)
   10. Pat Picton
   11. Elmer Verigin (standing)
   12. Fred Chursinoff (standing)
   13. Dorothy Dergousoff (standing)
   14. Molly Konkin
   15. Nellie Kerieff
   16. Ann Chursinoff
   17. Bill Voykin
   18. Paris Voykin (photographer)

Sunday, November 18, 2018, marked 50 years since the Doukhobor Cultural Association was established. It is also a few years since it has disbanded.

17 surviving members met for a dinner organized by Ann Zibin and Marilyn Verigin to share memories at the Sandman Inn.

I want to thank all those who were members over the years that successfully proved that if people listen to each other, hear and understand what is being said that equal representatives from the three Doukhobor groups in 1968, could live and work together.

We also learned how to have fun together!

Achievements are:

1. Full development of 48 seniors units in Delta, B.C., with local interested people
2. Full development of 10 seniors units at Rosewood Manor in Castlegar, B.C.
3. Assisted In development of 28 seniors units at Parkside Villa in Grand Forks, B.C.
4. Assisted in development of the Doukhobor Village in Castlegar, B.C.
5. Development of Whatshan Lake Retreat at Edgewood, B.C., and establishing the Doukhobor Heritage Retreat Society #1999 (See Miracle at Whatshan in my blog)
6. Funding of feasibility study and organization of the Kootenay Columbia Seniors Cooperative and start construction of over 100 housing units at Grandview Housing in Castlegar, B.C. (See Seniors Speak from the Ledge in my blog)
7. Green City “Functions”
8. 
9. Contributing funds to The Castlegar Hospital and Hospice
10. Many other contributions too numerous to list here
11. They also took a course at Selkirk College in parliamentary procedures and successful association so that all members learned how to Chair and handle an organization successfully

I am proud to have been associated with such a group that have now moved into the sunset.

You have made this place a better place with your efforts

Thank you!

Posted November 29, 2018 by Elmer Verigin

Those who may be interested to know more about the DCA may search my blog for reports and other articles on this society.

Just thought I should post my reflections on this event last weekend.

The Society Rental Coordinator, Nona Kucher, Jim Laktin, President and myself, Elmer Verigin, Past President of the Doukhobor Heritage Society #1999, attended a local event at the Whatshan Lake Retreat.

It was billed, as the “last weekend of summer music festival” but it was more than that, it was a successful local entertainment event. It was a great pleasure meeting friends from the past and new faces that I had the opportunity to meet for the first time. Smiles by everyone and some great concession stands with great food. I do hope that some of these with consider future events including the Whatshan Jam in the second weekend of July 2019. Yes, 2019 will be a twenty (20) year celebration of when the project was dedicated to society in July of 1999.

Many of the Musicians were part of a local group that would prepare “pot luck” entrees in 1998 and 1999, and come to the Retreat building under construction and to lift the spirits of the volunteers who were building at that time. There amongst the piles of drywall, insulation and tools, we ate and then the music would start. I recall “Banjo” singing up a storm with his rendition of “Seven Spanish Angels” with a definitive Hank Snow twang. Bill Penner and many more would round off the spontaneous program.

They all never really understood what encouragement it was to those who had travelled from far on that building program. Kudus to all of you!

Many local entertainers made the day and evening enjoyable with donations to the Edgewood Fire Department. I was especially impressed with the volunteers who prepared the Pancake Breakfast. Definitely, very professional and those would missed it are forever handicapped (healthwise, I mean).

Thank you very much to Dean and Patti Taylor who did much to organize this event and the Society is very appreciative of your efforts far and beyond your Care-Taking duties at the Retreat.

Note that Rodeo, Taylor’s ‘watch dog’ made friends with Nona right away and was much relaxed by the music.

It was great to see Bob on stage and happy to see his healthy face. Thank you also, to Bill Penner, our first Care-Taker and long time volunteer, to come and say hello.

Bob Baker brought the Gingersnap Lady out and I was disappointed that she didn’t bring a bag of ‘snaps’ out. I am sure that Larry noticed that too! Yes Bob, the bunkbeds that Bill and you constructed and donated to Cabins 6 through 8 inclusive, are still performing as they were intended. Thank you very much!

A lot of hugs with Karen and Judy (I hope Bill and Orville understand). They say what happens in Whatshan stays in Whatshan but at Whatshan people are old-fashioned with their appreciation of each other and we do not need CNN to dictate what we can do in normal lives.

I understand that I missed a great dance and music within the Retreat on Saturday Night. Please understand that my “candle does not burn as long as it used to”!

Then perhaps, the Baunya steam bath with Jim may have compromised my stamina. The report that Jim gave us was that it was a great event and well attended.

I look forward to this fund raiser taking place next year and I hope that it was as financially successful as it was socially.

Thank you all!

Elmer

October 01, 2018

That is Elmer Verigin with his new monitor, looking at his program CadPro

I recently came to the conclusion that retirement is much to stressful. When a body is used to action 105% of the time, leisure becomes too difficult to adjust to.

Yes I know that we all need breaks and I do that but soon I become irritable and difficult to live with (so Marilyn admits now).

My back has been seriously compromised over the years and my step not as high as it used to be.

I saw this ad for CadPro, a computer drafting program. I had look at CADD previously but the earlier programs were too challenging and required Plotters, etc., rendering them applicable only to serious Engineering and Architectural firms.

So I investigated and now am reasonably adept at developing drawings which I used to do with old fashioned drafting boards, parallel arms, etc., and was not as exciting but just work.

My family was quick to offer projects:

• Daughter Nona – interior renovations of her house
• Daughter Lori and Rick – New detached garage for their new housr
• Daughter Tamara and Kyle – interior house renovations.

The practice was good but it was a tough battle uphill to associate all the icons with an application to achieve what I knew was the intended results. Progress was very promising.

I also remember in my earlier years with Verigin Industries Limited (ViL), being the “design department” and met many clients that needed a custom house or a renovation. I enjoyed meeting these people and translating their dreams to reality. I also found that I could easily suggest changes that would render their plans much more economic. In many instances, the result was that they saved more money than what they paid for their plans. In most instances, ViL became the General Contractior.

That progressed to the design and development of:

• 98 unit Townhouses at Glenmerry Village, Trail, B.C.
• Dental Building, Grand Forks, B.C.
• Various subdivisions
• and much more

So my mind is still active, why not apply this to the plans of people who need this guidance??

So I printed some business cards and named my new enterprise:

ELMER VERIGIN DESIGNS

(250) 608 2215 cell

EMVerigin@shaw.ca

Posted Elmer Verigin, May 20, 2018

This is the President’s Report to be delivered at the AGM Monday, May 21, 2018 at the Doukhobor Discovery Center, Castlegar, B.C.

I served as President of the former Doukhobor Heritage Retreat from 1981 through 1999. There were a few years, during the time of Doukhobor Heritage Retreat Society #1999, that several Directors undertook this elected position. Now that I am voluntarily stepping down, I can vouch that the position is very challenging. I wish Jim Laktin, as incoming president, all the good wishes that can be provided.

In the end, it is the Directors and the members that require their entire commitment to ensure that this Society to continue as a success.

We can take brief snap shots at our successful history:

• Financial contribution from fifteen families in the Doukhobor Cultural Association (DCA) in 1980 to support a loan of $150,000 to pay for the two parcels of land now owned by the DHRS #1999
• The orderly process to selectively log the large parcel that retired the loan completely
• The founding of Doukhobor Heritage Retreat Society (DHRS) in the early 1990s by a portion of the early DCA and supporting individuals to conceive the concept of a Retreat
• The cash contribution of 7 members to pay the $1,400 Building Permit fee for the Retreat Building
• The contribution by the DCA of 3 loads of logs to initiate the cash for start up funding
• The long list of Donators of materials, equipment and labor to build the Retreat Building
• The entry of Allan Markin and his contribution of $1 million (and subsequent donations) to establish the basis for the current Doukhobor Heritage Retreat Society #1999 (DHRS #1999) in 1999
• The approval of charitable tax status by the CRA in 1999
• The continuing process of construction that followed in this order:
  • Start Retreat Building in 1995 and completion in 1999
  • Cabins 1 through 5 inclusive along with the Whispering Pines Center in 2003
  • The Volunteer Campsites in 2003
  • Cabins 6 through 8 inclusive and the stage in 2004
  • The Care-Taker / Office building in 2005
  • Wells #4 and #5 and water distribution system in 2006
  • Well #6 and the Fire Suppression System in 2014

All this was achieved by exceptional cooperation of all Funders and Volunteers who had a vision that attracted their attention. I am proud to have been associated with all this these 46 years!

As I look around this room, I see some of you who have been with me all this time. There are many more who are here in sprit only but continue to support from where they are.

If I begin to thank each of you individually, I would miss one or more of you. You were all fundamental to the success. Yes, we had fun as we worked. The saying that “whatever happens in Whatshan stays in Whatsan” is our secret. Those who want to know, will need to find out for yourselves when you able.

As the Founders age, we are being supported by enthusiastic Supporters. We can now support paid staff that was once all volunteer but today is impossible to achieve that way. I want to congratulate:

• Nona Kucher, our Rental Coordinator and Caretaker Contact
• Tamara Verigin-Burk, our CEO

The day to day operations are continuing to become “business as usual” and do not require emergency trips to Whatshan by the President to resolve site issues.

The financial statements show that all bills are being paid with a reserve funding at this time. This is a vast difference from when the project was started and there was no money for a keg of nails. The principle and policy is that there will not be an mortgages nor debts created for the DHRS #1999.

What is in the future? The CEO and RC will report what is taking place and some of the objectives for the future include:

1. Refund the Markin invested funds in the Vancouver Foundation ($180,000) which is underway
2. Use this funding to initiate the Society entry into Bulk Water Sales
3. Complete the zoning application to permit Bulk Water Sales
4. With Bulk Water Sales revenues, reduce dependence on donations to balance the books
5. Once all the above is established, search new ways in which the objectives of the Society can be directed.

Whatshan has been my life as well as that of many of my contemporaries, I wish Jim Laktin and the new Board every success to achieve greater heights of success.

Elmer Verigin