If you have fond childhood memories of playing in the sprinkler on hot summer days, well, there is a good chance you did not grow up in Cranbrook.

Actually, things are better now than they once were. In the early days, Cranbrook often suffered twice each year; the water dried up in the summer and froze in the winter, and then there were those nasty spring floods.

Surrounded by rivers: the Kootenay, St. Mary’s, Moyie, Bull, and Wildhorse, not to mention St. Joseph’s and Gold Creeks, Cranbrook still manages to find itself coming up short on the aqua court year after year.

How does a city find itself in such a predicament? You, dear readers, will have two months to ponder that particular question as Janus once again signs off for the summer.

Thanks to all those who have taken the time to share their memories, opinions, ideas and memorabilia. Heartfelt thanks also to the management and staff of The Daily Townsman for all their help and support. Janus will return come autumn and in the meantime, “Tap ‘er cool...and go easy on the ice.”