Historical Lens Historical Lens PERSPECTIVE Thanks for the memories

By Joanne McQuarrie editor@columbiavalleypioneer.com

After working in the Columbia Valley region for close to seven months, I’m moving on.

I am grateful for the opportunity to work at the Pioneer, and to my supportive coworkers, who have been immensely helpful throughout my time here.

I’m grateful also, to have learned about many people who are dedicated to the health and protection of the land and the wildlife in this area, that we have the privilege of experiencing. That commitment is what all of us need to keep practicing or start practicing, and is taken to a deeper level with a quote by Albert Einstein: ‘Look deep into nature, and then you will understand everything better.’

It’s beautiful here. Hiking trials highlight amazing rivers and lookout points all over. I was thrilled to see Kokanee salmon in the Bugaboo area. I was also thrilled NOT to see cougars and bears up close on the hikes although maybe they were around… I learned how friendly/hungry ducks and seagulls are as I relaxed at James Chabot Park at Lake Windermere.

And speaking of ‘friendly’, it has been wonderful to be greeted by smiles from folks in a variety of places in the region, during daily routines and on excursions.

Greg Skinner is stepping into the editorship and brings with him many skills to fill the overall realm of the position.

I leave you with words of wisdom from Nelly McClung, activist and author: ‘Never retreat, never explain, never apologize - get the thing done and let them howl!’