Since 1952 the Castlegar Air Cadets have been active participants in community events like Castlegar’s Sun Fest, the Pass Creek Fall Fair, Remembrance Day ceremonies and Castlegar’s Winterfest just to name a few.

The Squadron has had many homes in its nearly 70 years of serving the community. Starting its early days in the old Castlegar Elementary School which stood where the Castlegar Courthouse now stands. This headquarters was followed by Stanley Humphries High School, the Kinnaird Hall and then old Airport Terminal Building.

And finally the Kiwanis Hall, our current home since 1994. It is also the home of the community Sharing Pot, a soup kitchen that typically runs on Tuesdays at noon.

Why we’ve started a GoFundMe Campaign – Our current building is in need of desperate and emergency repairs.

In October of this year, members of the Sponsoring Committee, who regularly check on the building, noticed puddles of water on the main floor which has resulted in water damage. Water damage that will require significant remediation to the ceiling, main floor and basement.

Although we had hoped the roof leak would be resolved by a repair, we have been advised a full roof replacement is now required. We are fortunate that our insurance will cover the extensive water damage that has occurred to the interior of the hall, with a deductible of $5,000.

However, the roof repair is NOT covered by insurance. The squadron sponsoring committee of the Castlegar Air Cadets is looking at approximately $30,000 to replace the roof. As a result of COVID and other fundraising challenges we are starting this GoFundMe campaign to raise the $30,000.

We are seeking your financial support to ensure that our Cadets and the community soup kitchen will continue to have a safe and secure place. Any excess over the $30,000 goal will be used for other building upgrades, and/or invested in other cadet programs (upgrade flight sims etc).

Thank you for your support.
581 Castlegar Air Cadets Squadron Sponsoring Committee

East Meets West Sports Weekend

Annual Cadet Sports and Fitness Weekend

January 28, 2020                                                               581 Royal Canadian Air Cadet Squadron

Castlegar, BC – Over 150 Cadets and Officers from all 12 East and West Kootenay units meet this past weekend to engage in friendly sports and fitness competition.

Sea, Army, and Air Cadets from Creston, Fernie, Invermere, Golden, Elkford, Cranbrook, Trail, Nelson, and Kimberly joined their host, the 581 Castlegar Air Cadets, at Selkirk College to take part in activities ranging from volleyball and basketball to 20 m shuttle runs and push-ups and even a dance.

“We put a huge focus on having a variety of activities to ensure everyone is having fun,” stated Tyler Visona, a Volunteer Instructor for the 581 Squadron and former cadet himself.  “All the while meeting new friends from other units.”

The goal of the Air Cadets is to develop in youth the attributes of good citizenship and leadership; promote physical fitness; and to stimulate the interest of youth in the sea, land and air activities of the Canadian Armed Forces.  As part of this goal, each Cadet unit is required to participate in a fitness assessment at least once a year.

“Cadets were able to earn their Cadet Fitness badge, compete in sports activities and learn leadership skills.” said Capt. Gerry Rempel commanding officer of the 581 Castlegar Air Cadets. “Additionally, they got to participate with youth from other units while also making new friends.”

“My favorite part was being a role model to my cadets, and getting to show them all of the benefits cadets has to offer.” Said Sierra Johnson a Flight Sargent with the 581 Castlegar Air Cadets.

“East meets west is fantastic … (and) makes cadets feel more connected to their fellow cadets…” said F.Sgt Dylan Hastie when asked about the event.  “My favorite part was interacting with different cadets from all over the region.”

The cadet program is open to all youth between the ages of 12-18 years old with a focus on leadership, citizenship and healthy living.  Individuals interested in joining or volunteering with the cadets are encouraged to check out aircadetleague.com and www.cadets.ca.  You can also visit the 581 Casltegar Air Cadet Facebook page at www.facebook.com/CastlegarCadets.

Strike A Pose. Photo Credit: Matthew Mussio

F.Sgt Sierra Johnson and her 2IC (2nd In Charge) take a moment to pose of the camera. Photo credit: Matthew Mussio

Push up time. Photo Credit: Matthew Mussio

2020 East Meets West Sit and Reach Station. Photo Credit: Matthew Mussio

Cadets from around the Kootenay’s took part in the 2020 East Meets West Sports Weekend at Selkirk College. Photo credit: Major Kevin DeBiasio

December 3, 2019                                                            581 Royal Canadian Air Cadet Squadron

Castlegar, BC – Local Castlegar resident Dave Blancher is no stranger to supporting his local community or country; having served in the Canadian Armed Forces for just over 20 years between 1989 to 2009, he now works as a Primary Care Paramedic (PCP) for the BC Ambulance Service.  Now he can add a new item to his list of accomplishments after being sworn in as an Officer Cadet for the Castlegar Air Cadets.

Capt. Gerry Rempel, the commanding officer of the 581 Squadron, swore in his new officer on November 19^th, during a regular parade night for the Air Cadets.  “I’ve known Dave for just over 8 years, starting when he and I were both involved with St John Ambulance.” said Capt. Rempel, “He will be an important addition to our Squadron and we are lucky to have him.”

As an Officer Cadet, Dave is now a member of the Cadet Instructors Cadre branch of the Canadian Armed Forces.  His primary duty will be as the assistance supply officer and instructing Cadets.  “Before I joined the regular forces, I was with the Nelson squadron for 4 years.  It really helped prepare me for a life in the armed forces” said OC Dave Blancher.

Cadet Instructors Cadre (CIC) consists of specially trained part-time members of the Canadian Forces. CIC officers are responsible for cadet training, supervision and administration; and are an important piece of the puzzle when it comes to the Cadet program.

“We are always looking for new volunteers to join and help support this great program.” said Capt. Rempel.  “Without Officers and the volunteers who run our Squadron Sponsoring Committee we couldn’t have a Cadet squadron here in Castlegar.  Individuals donate large amounts of time and it shows in how successful out Cadet Program has been.”

If you are interested in volunteering with the Castlegar Air Cadets either as an Officer or volunteer you can visit their Facebook page at www.facebook.com/CastlegarCadets or their website at 581castlegaraircadets.ca for more information.

Dave Blancher (right) and Capt. Gerry Rempel (left) Photo credit: F.Sgt Corbin Johnson

Dave Blancher signing his paperwork, making him an official CIC officer as Capt. Gerry Rempel and F.Sgt Anthony Ismay look on. Photo credit: F.Sgt Corbin Johnson

November 29, 2019                                                         581 Royal Canadian Air Cadet Squadron

Castlegar, BC – When the Canadian Armed Forces tweeted out an appeal for holiday greetings for soldiers serving away from home this holiday season, the Castlegar Air Cadets answered the call and got right down to work.

“I have a friend who has served overseas, in a variety of operations, so I know how important caring contact from home can be.”  Said 2Lt Barb. Makortoff the squadron’s administration officer who organized the letter-writing night. “not all soldiers have a supportive family back home, but even those that do, appreciate the care and thoughtfulness of those at home, known or unknown.”

The Castlegar Air Cadets recently visited seniors in local care homes around the community during Remembrance Day activities and took part in the Castlegar Remembrance Day Services held on November 11.  “It only seemed like the next step to take to teach the younger generation, what it is all about…LEST WE FORGET.” said Makortoff.

The aim of the Air Cadets is to “develop in youth the attributes of good citizenship and leadership; promote physical fitness; and to stimulate the interest of youth in the sea, land and air activities of the Canadian Armed Forces”.  The Castlegar Air Cadets have been strong members of the local community since 1952, when they first received their charter.

“It makes me feel good to know that someone who might not have gotten a letter from home will get one now for the holiday season.” Said F.Sgt Dylan Hastie when asked about the letter he wrote.

The cadet program is open to all youth between the ages of 12-18 years old with a focus on leadership, citizenship and healthy living.  They meet every Tuesday night at 6 pm.  For more information, you can visit their Facebook page at www.facebook.com/CastlegarCadets or website at 581castlegaraircadets.ca

Members of the 581 Squadron holding their letters to be sent to Canadian Armed Forces members serving away from home. Photo credit: Matthew Mussio

November 20, 2019                                                          581 Royal Canadian Air Cadet Squadron

Castlegar, BC – The Castlegar Air Cadets recently invited the public to join them for a movie night at the Castle Theatre on November 12, 2019.  The movie of the night? “Top Gun”, a true 80s classic.  A video showing off some of the amazing things Air Cadets do was shown to the audience prior to the screening.

The Air Cadets collected both cash and non-perishable food donations from patrons.   Half the financial donations which they recently presented to the Community Harvest Food Bank on November 20.

“It was a much deserved fun night after all the training and effort they [Cadets] put in to preparing for and participating in Remembrance Day,” said Shelley Hastie who is part of the Squadron Sponsoring Committee.  “We wanted to do a fun night that would also benefit the local community.  We intend to do more events like this in the future.”

The Castlegar Air Cadets will also be hosting a “Paws for Claus” photo shoot event on November 30 with a portion of the proceeds going to support the local SPCA.  For more information about Paws for Claus you can check out the Castlegar Air Cadets Facebook page.

The Castlegar Air Cadets have helped to serve the local community since 1952, when they first received their charter.  They are proud to be strong community members and help support local causes.

The cadet program is open to all youth between the ages of 12-18 years old with a focus on leadership, citizenship and healthy living. Visit our Facebook page at www.facebook.com/CastlegarCadets or our website at 581castlegaraircadets.ca for more information.

Uniformed and ununiformed Cadets greeting guests for the Top Gun movie night. Photo credit: Matthew Mussio

F.Sgt Dylan Hastie greeting movies goers with pizazz. Photo credit: Matthew Mussio

Capt. Gerry Rempel presenting the Community Harvest Food Bank with a cheque with cadets looking on holding non-perishable food donations. Photo credit: Matthew Mussio

Castlegar Air Cadets hand out Poppies

October 25, 2019                                                             581 Royal Canadian Air Cadet Squadron

Castlegar, BC – Every year, in the days leading up to November 11, the Royal Canadian Legion conducts the Poppy Campaign, along with thousands who volunteer across the county to raise funds in support of Veterans and their families.

From the last Friday of October to November 11, the Poppy is worn by millions of Canadians from coast to coast as a visual pledge to never forget those who sacrificed for our freedom.  Castlegar Air Cadets and the members of the local Royal Canadian Legion Branch 170 will be out and around Castlegar distributing poppies.

Castlegar Air Cadets will be at stationed at local businesses around Castlegar in the opening days of the 2019 Poppy Campaign to help raise money for the Poppy Fund.  While the Poppy is available freely to all who wish to wear one, the Legion gratefully accepts donations.

“The Poppy drive is an important activity that the Cadets take part in each year.” Said Capt. Gerry Rempel, the commanding officer of the 581 Castlegar Royal Canadian Air Cadet Squadron.  “The importance of Remembrance Day and the Poppy are something we teach to the Cadets.  The Cadets are also a big part of the Remembrance day Ceremony in Castlegar, and they spent a significant amount of time training for the day.”

The Castlegar Air Cadets have helped to serve the local community since 1952, when they first received their charter.  They are proud to take part in the Poppy Campaign and Remembrance day.

The cadet program is open to all youth between the ages of 12-18 years old with a focus on leadership, citizenship and healthy living. Visit our Facebook page at www.facebook.com/CastlegarCadets or our website at 581castlegaraircadets.ca for more information.

AC VanderHave and AC Bosch. Photo Credit: Matthew Mussio

F. Sgt. Anthony Ismay. Photo Credit: Matthew Mussio

LAC Maddy Fairclough. Photo Credit: Matthew Mussio

Associated Links

581castlegaraircadets.ca

www.facebook.com/CastlegarCadets

Contact:

Matthew Mussio

581 Squadron Sponsoring Committee Secretary

West Kootenays
Email: mmussio@gmail.com

Pass Creek Fall Fair

September 24, 2019                                                                  581 Royal Canadian Air Cadet Squadron

Castlegar, BC – Castlegar Air Cadets joined forces with the 1^st Robson Scouts and Venturers to give the public what they wanted at the 26^th Annual Pass Creek Fall Fair – “Cotton Candy”.  Always a fan favorite, the sales of the cotton candy, are an important part of the Castlegar Air Cadets fundraising.

“The sales of Cotton Candy and the money made from parking at the fall fair is a very important fundraising activity for us.” said Shelley Hastie, the 581 Squadron Sponsoring Committee treasurer.  “This year we had a limited number of parent volunteers and cadets available to look after both the parking and cotton candy booth, so we reached out to the Scouts and asked if they could help us out on Sunday.  Without them we couldn’t have made it work.  We are very thankful.”

When asked about working with the Scouts, Air Cadet Warrant Office 2^nd Class Deannah Kaiser, had this to say “I would say it was a really fun experience getting to know other people and learning how different youth groups work and what fun things they do. It was a big help having that many hands on in each shift.”

“It’s great to see youth and adults from different organizations come together supporting each other” said Scouter Deidre Price “1st Robson (scouts) is currently fundraising to send 4 youth and 2 adults to the International Scout Center in Kandersteg, Switzerland.”

The Castlegar Air Cadets have helped to serve the local community since 1952, when they first received their charter.  They are proud to be present for important events such as the Pass Creek Fall Fair.

The 1^st Robson Scouts are open for 11 and 14 year olds, and the Venturers for 15 to 17 year olds.  For more information about Scouts Canada visit www.scouts.ca

The cadet program is open to all youth between the ages of 12-18 years old with a focus on leadership, citizenship and healthy living. Visit our Facebook page at www.facebook.com/CastlegarCadets or our website at 581castlegaraircadets.ca for more information.

Cadets and Scouts making cotton candy.. Photo credit: Deannah Kaiser

It is a sticky job but someone has to do it. Photo credit: Deannah Kaiser

Cadets Fundraising

September 27, 2019                                                        581 Royal Canadian Air Cadet Squadron

Castlegar, BC – Castlegar Air Cadets are out selling fudge and peanut brittle for a limited time.  Money raised will go to support their yearend trip and other activities.  With 12 flavours of fudge and 11 varieties of peanut brittle available for purchase, they are bound to have something for everyone.

Available for $7 each or 3 for $18 these are a great deal.  A full list of available options is included below:

Thank you everyone for supporting our Air Cadets! Orders are now closed, we will keep you updated on our Facebook page for order pickup.

The cadet program is open to all youth between the ages of 12-18 years old with a focus on leadership, citizenship and healthy living. Visit our Facebook page at www.facebook.com/CastlegarCadets or our website at 581castlegaraircadets.ca for more information.

Cadets walk to support local seniors

September 26, 2019                                                        581 Royal Canadian Air Cadet Squadron

Castlegar, BC – Air Cadets from the 581 Royal Canadian Air Cadet Squadron took to the streets today.  With members of the Castlegar Rebels, West Kootenay Kennel Club, 99.3 the Goat FM, and many others from the community to support the CastleWood Village Alzheimer’s Walk.  An annual fundraising event to support local Alzheimer’s care.  Bringing awareness to the community about dementia.

Lead by F.Sgt Dylan Hastie and F.Cpl Searra Corke the procession started out at CastleWood in downtown Castlegar.  Passing by the Castlegar Community Library and the Castlegar Court House before returning to Castlewood.

“It was fun serving juice and coffee to the seniors.  It is great to interact with these seniors and help out with this great cause.” said F.Sgt Dylan Hastie, the senior Cadet who helped lead the procession around town.

Joined later by F.Sgt Sierra Johnson, the Air Cadets helped to serve coffee, juice and hot chocolate and chat with some of the senior citizens.

The Castlegar Air Cadets have helped to serve the local community since 1952, when they first received their charter.  They are proud to be present for important events such as this and Remembrance day.

F.Cpl S. Corke, F. Sgt S.Johnson and F.Sgt D. Hastie chatting with a retired Air Force Veteran. Photo credit: Gerry Rempel

F.Sgt D. Hastie and F.Cpl S. Corke lead the procession down the street. Photo credit: Gerry Rempel

Putting the Air back in to Air Cadets

September 9, 2019 – 581 Royal Canadian Air Cadet Squadron

Trail, BC – Despite some grey cloudy weather and a few rain drops the Cadets from the local Castlegar Air Cadet squadron 581 made the trip to The Trail Regional Airport to take to the skies on the morning of September 8, 2019.

Crew members CI Howard Grantham, Capt. Craig Ralph, Capt. Kim Hoath and 2nd Lt Andrew Stoney from the Regional Gliding School based out of Oliver and Major Kevin DeBiasio from Trail, BC were on hand to talk with cadets and teach them about gliding operations.

“Gliding is fun and filled with potential opportunities such as glider courses at summer camps. If you aren’t as interested in gliding you can also take a course on an actual pilot’s license course making it a potential career choice as well.” said F/Sgt. Dylan Hastie who has been a cadet for 4 years when asked what he thought about gliding.

During the day Cadets were offered a chance to learn about the gliders, take part in ground operations and go for a ride.  It is an opportunity to “…put the air back in Air Cadets…” says Capt. Kim Hoath who piloted the tug plane responsible for towing the glider in to flight.  Cadets were also given an opportunity to ride in the tug plane with Capt. Hoath.

The glider, a Schweizer model SGS 2-33A, weighs in at just over 450 kgs, can carry a pilot and a passenger to altitudes greater than 1200 meters.

In addition to taking part in gliding days like these, the Castlegar Air Cadets has 6 flight simulators available for Cadet use.  “Cadets can participate in flight simulator training to earn their flight sim badge.” said Hue Anderson a former cadet whose passion for the cadet program has him earned him a spot as a volunteer instructor.  Cadets can also earn credits towards high school graduation and even earn a pay check when attending various Cadet Training Centres (CTCs) during summer months.

The 581 Squadron of the Royal Canadian Air Cadets meets every Tuesday night at 6:00 pm at the Air Cadet hall in Castlegar.  The squadron is always opening to welcoming new cadets who are between the ages of 12 and 18. Adults who would like to volunteer with squadron are also welcome.

Photo of AC Amber Smith moments before take off – Photo Credit – Matthew Mussio

Photo of 2nd Lt. A Stoney giving Cadets their preflight safety

Photo of AC Amber Smith preparing for her first ever glider flight – Photo Credit – Matthew Mussio