The Free Press, December 20, 2012 by Black Press Media Group

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Former Rider has new role - Page 17 ARTS

RedGirl gets festive Page 15 CHRISTMAS

A visiting family from Britain enjoyed a skate with Santa and Ghostriders Matt Carr, and Josh McKissock.

Best decorated homes - Page 3

SPARWOOD

Amber’s journey to recovery- Page 3

RCMP

Crime reports - Page 28

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Barnett opts to represent himself at trial By Annalee Grant Townsman Staff

he man accused of abducting his three-year-old son elected a trial by Supreme Court Justice and jury in Cranbrook Provincial Court Monday afternoon. Robert Barnett is charged with abduction by a parent/guardian and theft over $5,000 in relation to an incident on November 16 that sparked an Amber Alert when three-year-old Alvin Barnett disappeared during a supervised visit in Fernie. The boy was then smuggled over the B.C./Montana border. Robert Barnett and the child were found the next day in Whitefish, Montana, after spending the night in an allegedly stolen vehicle. The boy was returned to Canada safe.

Barnett, wearing a black T-shirt and jeans, appeared in person before Judge Lisa Mrozinski on December 17 for arraignment and election, and advised court he was representing himself. Crown counsel Andrew Mayes said Barnett had already had a bail hearing and was to be detained pending trial. Barnett told court he had contacted over a dozen lawyers and was having difficulty finding one that would take legal aid. Both counsel Rick Strahl and Greg Sawchuk, who were in court for other matters, advised court they had conversations with Barnett, but had not taken him on as a client. Sawchuk said he had informed Barnett of the availability of legal aid and explained his options

for a trial. Mrozinski cautioned Barnett, and suggested he wait before selecting a method for trial. “I don't know that you want to do your electing today,” she said. Barnett said he wanted the matter to be moved forward as fast as possible and advised he wished to elect trial by judge and jury. “I think the Crown's case speaks for itself,” Barnett said, adding that it would be up to them to prove his innocence or guilt, and he planned to call few witnesses. Barnett also queried about an assessment order of his mental ability, but Mrozinski said he would have to collect information to the court to prove or disprove an illness. She

later said if Barnett wished to have an assessment done on himself, he would have to bring that before the next judge to hear his case. Mrozinski cautioned further about the choice to proceed without counsel, but Barnett opted to continue. “I have a right to not have a lawyer and have things go as fast as possible,” he said. Barnett also asked to waive his right to a preliminary hearing, which is held ahead of a trial to gather the information for a case and determine the permissibility of evidence at a trial, and whether there is enough evidence for a trial to be held. Mrozinski said it was certainly Barnett's right to not have a preliminary hearing, noting that it would make the matter go through the courts quicker, but said it

may not be in his best interests to not have one ahead of his trial. Barnett said he was concerned about the child at the centre of the case. “There's a three-year-old involved here,” he said. Mrozinski said that should Barnett opt to seek counsel at a later date, they may have difficulty representing him. In the end, Barnett opted for a trial by judge and jury and waived his right to a preliminary hearing. He will appear before a Supreme Court Justice in person on January 14 at 10 a.m. He did not enter a plea. Barnett, who has dual American and Canadian citizenship, returned to Canada earlier this month after initially fighting extradition from Montana.

THE FREE PRESS Thursday, December 20, 2012

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School reports ‘hazing’ incident Have a wonderful Christmas and an amazing New Year!

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he Elk Valley RCMP is dealing with complaints of “hazing” at one of the secondary schools. A few weeks ago, a member of the volleyball team was subjected to an initiation into the team, commonly known as “hazing.” The RCMP said they are working with the school to try to stop this practice. “We received a call a few weeks ago and the complainant informed us that there had been an incident involving a member

isitors to Fernie may soon have a new place to pitch their tents and park their RVs. The owner of the property commonly known as the wrangler or rodeo grounds is proposing to turn the lot into a campground. Reto Barrington owns close to 30 acres of land located west of the Fernie Golf Club and north of McDougall Creek. He’s asking the City of Fernie to allow him to rezone the lot from Rural Residential to Parks and Open Space to allow for campground development. While the City supports the proposed campground, Director of Planning Bruce

Lennox explained that the location of the property poses a potential concern. “The lot is in the one and 200 year flood plain of the Elk River,” said Lennox. “However the proposed campground use is a use that is typically found in flood plains throughout the province.” Lennox went on to say that a covenant would be registered to the property’s title to address the key issues with developing in the flood plain; the City would not be held accountable for any claims relating to damage from flooding or erosion, the roads accessing the site would be wide enough and maintained to ensure vehicles can leave quickly in the event of a major flood,

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being something that the school needs to deal with.” Sgt. Thien said the victim has not been willing to disclose information at this point. “We need the victim to disclose things to us in order for us to continue our investigations, but we can’t force him to do that. “It’s an educational process that needs to take place between the school and the parents. However, our communication with the school is ongoing. We have to handle it very carefully. These are kids we’re talking about.”

New campground for Fernie By Nicole Liebermann Free Press Staff

Have a happy holiday season and remember those less fortunate

of the volleyball team and the practice of “hazing” which we believe is some form of initiation,” said Sgt. Will Thien from the Elk Valley RCMP. Sgt. Thien said that unless the victim is prepared to disclose more information, there is not anything the police are able to do. “The practice of ‘hazing’ is, in my opinion, stupid, but from the police side of things we have to determine whether or not a criminal offence has taken place. The practice is not usually something we can charge people with and it may end up

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and RVs would be kept on their wheels so they can be removed within short notice. Another location point Lennox brought up is a wetland area at the south end of the site that currently serves as a well-used wildlife corridor for deer, birds, fish, and frogs. A report done by the Ministry of Forest, Lands, and Natural Resource Operations recognizes the area as a ‘wetland complex’ with high wildlife values. Property owner Reto Barrington said that a wildlife identification study would be done before they proceed with any development to that portion of the lot. “We will identify the area that is potentially sensitive and then we’ll send a biologist in there to tell us how sensitive it is,” commented Barrington. “The impression I got from the report was that you could have walking paths and that sort of thing in there, which could actually be an added amenity to the project.” Barrington estimated that about one third of

the property will be identified and maintained as wetland, leaving the remainder for campsites. “I’m expecting that we’ll have probably at least 20 acres that we can actually work with. On the basis of typical densities we would probably be starting with a first phase of 200 sites.” While council felt there were some potential pauses for concern with the lot itself, they were unanimous in recognizing the benefits the campground would bring to Fernie. “I think we need to keep our eye on the net benefit to the community,” remarked Councillor Willard Ripley. “Just think of all those RVs that roll through here every summer and don’t stop. “This is, to me, a brilliant idea to change that land into an RV park and campground, and bring people into the community.” The next step in the process is holding a public hearing to give residents a chance to voice their opinions on the project. The City will schedule a hearing for January.

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Chamber announces Sparwood's best decorated By Jenna Jensen Contributor

n partnership with Black Gold Bus Lines, Lilac Terrace and Sparwood Futures Society the members of Sparwood Chamber of Commerce toured the town with Sparwood seniors taking in all of the best decorated homes. Many were in the holiday spirit and had homes beautifully adorned with lights and decorations. Winners are: Best Overall: Bob & Darlene Nickerson - 1247 Valleyview Drive Best House: 1st Place Bruce and Shelly Dingerville - 450 Mountain Ash Crescent, 2nd Place Randy and Charlotte Roberts - 126 Pine Ave, 3rd Place Mike and Deanna Chala - 1304 Wildwood Drive, 4th Place Rae & Colleen Morandini - 488 Pine Ave. Honorable Mention: Fudd & Pauline Krall Best Mobile Home: 1st Place Henry Volkman and Jennifer Egan - 113 Spardell, 2nd Place Wayne Magee and Family - 53 Spardell. Honorable Mention: Sheryl & Sam Stephenson Best Balcony: Verle Jones - Ponderosa Manor Best Business: Vantage Point - Whiskey Jack Drive Best Overall Basket: Vantage Point

Norma McDougall, Sparwood Chamber Manager and Tonda Redgwell, Director of Sales for Vantage Point present Darlene Nickerson with a gift basket donated by Vantage Point for winning the best overall decorated home. Submitted photo

Amber Funk’s journey to recovery By Jenna Jensen Contributor

mber Funk is on her way to recovery after the October 2011 accident that almost claimed her life. Although she still has years ahead of her to relearn even simple tasks, her body has healed well enough physically that doctors and her family will now be focused on the other aspects of her injuries.

Funk has spent much of the first year healing, spending a month in an induced coma and dealing with the repercussions of her brain injury and seizures. She is currently unable to walk and has been coping with spells of intense anger and aggression, brought on by her brain injury and frustration in being unable to understand why she is in the hospital, and why she is unable to complete many day to day activities.

"Immediately after her accident she was in Foothills Hospital in Calgary. In February, something happened and things changed. She became really aggressive, and she ended up having to be strapped down to her bed. The doctors in Calgary agreed that her recovery was not moving forward and Amber was then transferred to Kamloops where they could better deal with her anger," said Amber’s mom Teresa McGillis. Since being in Kamloops things have been looking up. Amber is being medicated for her anger and beginning to cooperate. "We were in a situation where it was the only thing we could do to get her anger under control, so Amber would participate in some physiotherapy. It is better now than it was, but this is something that will most likely affect her for the rest of her life," said McGillis. Amber's family is now waiting patiently to hear if Amber can be

transferred to Ponoka, AB where they would be able to focus on her relearning day to day activities and deal with issues that arise from her brain injury. "Ponoka will be really good for her, there they teach everything without overdoing it. She really needs to be in a place where doctors can focus specifically on her brain injury," she said. "There are times where if she doesn't see me for a while, she forgets who I am. She remembers some old friends at times, but doesn't really recall her niece and nephew so it is clear that her memory, short term especially, has been affected. The doctors tell us she may never remember the week before her accident. She doesn't remember Victor or what happened and I'm not sure when that information will be worked into her life. For now, we try to keep her friends at bay, so too much info or memoires aren't unloaded on her at once, as that could be detrimental

Amber poses for a smile in the hospital in Kamloops. to her recovery." Despite all the trials and struggles, Amber’s mom is happy to have her daughter alive and on the road to recovery. "It's baby steps. This journey has been hard on everyone. Now, it is especially hard as Amber is so far away and I just don't have the money to see

Submitted photo

her. We are a really close family and are just trying to keep it together as best we can.” Donations can be made to Amber’s Wish at the Scotiabank in Fernie.

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THE FREE PRESS Thursday, December 20, 2012

Transit changes in the Elk Valley

Community Supporting Community

South Country bus cancelled while Elk Valley service is booming

s a strong promoter of supporting local businesses through my role at the Chamber of Commerce my husband and I try to do as much shopping and using local trade’s people as possible. Recently the Chamber hosted a luncheon that promoted the TenPercentShift; a simple initiative that challenges us all to shift our spending and think local first. We are fortunate enough to have a diverse businesses community that offer a great range of products & services; this is only possible because ‘we’ are all prepared to support these businesses. I will be going to visit my family for Christmas and they are all receiving something Fernie!!

By Nicole Liebermann Free Press Staff

Sarah Parry, Executive Director Fernie Chamber of Commerce and Visitor Information

Local business voted one of the best in B.C. By Nicole Liebermann Free Press Staff

ernie’s own Loaf Bakery and Restaurant has been named one of the top 10 best small businesses in the province. The B.C. public has voted Loaf to be one of the finalists who will compete in the Small Business B.C. Successful You Awards (SYA). Managed by Small Business B.C., the contest is free to enter and open to all new and existing small businesses across the province. Nominations were accepted during the months of October and November, with online votes deciding the top 10 finalists in the six award categories; Best Company, Best Concept, Best Employer, Best Green Business, Best Online Marketer, and Best Community Impact. Loaf is competing for the Best Company Award, which recognizes the business that

best demonstrates exceptional leadership, along with a proven track record of growth and profitability. The artisan bakery has been open in Fernie since 2009 and has always been popular with locals and out-of-towners. Loaf has only got busier since relocating to their larger, downtown location earlier this year. Loaf was also voted Best New Business 2010 by Fernie’s Chamber of Commerce, and owner Phil Gadd was included in Forty Foodies under Forty 2012. Moving forward, Loaf will complete a detailed application and provide supporting materials to submit to a panel of judges, who will select the five finalists in each category. The top five will be announced on January 30, and the final winner will be named on February 28 in Vancouver at the Successful You Awards ceremony.

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Donating a tasty Christmas

Dot Gildea, owner of Cabinets Plus Inc and Anne Zweerink, owner /manager of Fernie Extra Foods, with the food they donated to the Salvation Army. Submitted photo By Angela Treharne Free Press Staff

abinets Plus Inc and Extra Foods of Fernie recently combined

together to donate 10 turkeys and all the trimmings to the Salvation Army for their Christmas food hampers.

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tarting in 2013, BC Transit will no longer offer service between the Elk Valley and the South Country. Effective on January 2, the Regional District of East Kootenay is cancelling transit service on route Number 2, South Country. The bus service ran on Thursdays only and had an average of less than one ride per hour. Corporate Spokesperson for BC Transit Maribeth Burton explained with such low ridership numbers, the cost of the service was just too high. “It was almost a taxi service for the one or two people that used the service,” remarked Burton. December 27 will be the last chance for Elk Valley and South Country residents to ride the route that begins in Fernie and includes stops in Grasmere, Baynes Lake, Jaffray, and Elko. While one bus service is slowing to a halt, transit ridership in Fernie, Sparwood, and Elkford is booming. September 2012 was the third most productive month in the history of Elk Valley transit. Burton suspects it has a lot to do with increased ridership from Fernie Academy students. “Transit service has become attractive to parents who don’t have to drive their own kids once they are old enough,” commented Burton. “Whether it’s strength in numbers, or just the right combination of kids in the right age group, certainly students going to the Academy get a lot of credit for increased ridership.” The months of September and October saw dramatic increases in the number of trips on BC Transit in the Elk Valley. In comparison to September of last year, ridership grew by 39 per cent, and the year-over-year increase in October was 25 per cent.

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to you this season!

from the Doctors and staff of

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THE FREE PRESS Thursday, December 20, 2012

Fernie loses out on being named top ski town By Angela Treharne Free Press Staff

fter making it to the semi finals, Fernie was beaten in the last hour of voting in the semi finals of Powder Magazine’s Ski Town Throwdown online competition. Fernie has blown away competition so far to make in into the top four ski towns in north America. Fernie beat Jackson/Teton Valley, Wyoming, last week to move on to the semi finals against Bozeman, Montana. But Bozeman, home of Big Sky resort,

proved tough competition, and a tight race ended with a win for Bozeman. However, Fernie did receive a huge 4,819 votes. Bozeman received 4,980 votes. Jikke Gyorki, from Tourism Fernie, said, “We all worked very hard to try and win and we should be proud of the vote count we rounded up. It was a tense two days and it wasn't until the last 60 minutes where we ended up losing to Bozeman. “Thanks to all for fighting the fight. I almost feel like we just went through an Olympic battle!” The final is currently underway between Rossland/Nelson and Bozeman.

Individual dead following fire By Nicole Liebermann Free Press Staff

fire at a Lake Koocanusa campground this weekend has resulted in a man’s death. Elk Valley RCMP received a call at 12:15 p.m. on Saturday reporting the incident. “There was a fire at one of the campsites over the weekend. Unfortunately the single occupant that was involved is deceased,” stated Sergeant Will Thien. “The coroner was at the scene, and we brought in the major crime scene investigators, and it is a suicide.” Thien said that the family of the deceased have been in contact with the police, however RCMP will not be releasing the name of the individual until the incident has been 100 per cent confirmed.

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Impaired driving down in the Elk Valley By Angela Treharne Free Press Staff

lk Valley RCMP are calling the changes in drink driving laws a success after statistics were released that showed a drop in drunk drivers. In the Elk Valley, the number of impaired driving investigations nearly halved in 2012 compared to the previous year. Between January 1 2011 and November 29 2011, there were 109 cases, but only 59 in the same time period in 2012. “Impaired driving has definitely gone down in the Elk Valley,” said Sgt. Will Thien from the Elk Valley RCMP. “The immediate roadside prohibition (IRP)

has been a great tool to use in cracking down on offenders. The number of Immediate Roadside Prohibitions we have issued has also gone down, and not because we are not looking for offenders anymore. I really think the message is getting through to people.” Between January 1 2011 and November 29 2011, 30 IRPs were issued, but only 11 were issued in the same time period in 2012. “I think people are more aware of the IRP now and it has had a tremendous impact,” said Sgt. Thien. “However it is still an issue. We don’t want to see any impaired drivers on the roads.” Province-wide, an

estimated 104 lives have been saved since the provincial government introduced the tough new impaired driving law two years ago. In the five years before the immediate roadside prohibition program, there were an average of 114 people killed a year in alcohol-related collisions. In the first year of the program, 66 were killed in alcohol-related crashes; in the second year, 58. The reduction in deaths in those two years compared to the average is 104. Drivers who are impaired in B.C. face immediate penalties that can include impounding their vehicle, temporarily losing their licence, and fines and fees ranging from $600 to $4,000.

Safety is at our core Teck is committed to everyone going home safe and healthy everyday – at work or at play. That’s why we support the Canadian Avalanche Centre’s South Rockies field team. These avalanche technicians spend the winter here in our local backcountry, collecting vital data on the changing snowpack and weather conditions. That information helps the CAC produce the best daily avalanche forecast for this area - to help you plan your safe trip.

Photo by Ben Shaw

Dave Tracz

Jen Coulter

Gord Ohm

Dave Tracz has been an active member of the Canadian Avalanche Association for three years. In 2012, Dave completed a Master of Science degree in Civil Engineering specializing in Snow Avalanche Risk Control from the University of Calgary.

Jen Coulter has been working in the avalanche industry for 12 years, most recently as a full-time member of the Fernie Alpine Resort Ski Patrol, where she was involved in community education.

Gord Ohm is a familiar face to anyone who sleds or skis in the South Rockies backcountry. He has been living in Fernie for 24 years and was previously a ski guide at Island Lake Lodge. He has his Canadian Avalanche Association Operations Level 2 and is a certified avalanche control blaster and an ACMG Assistant Ski Guide.

This is his second year as an Assistant Avalanche Field Technician for the Canadian Avalanche Centre’s South Rockies Field Observer program. He is excited to be working with the other dedicated professionals at the CAC, and to be involved with such a unique program dedicated to public safety.

She has been actively involved in local search and rescue and she is a Canadian Avalance Rescue Dog Association handler and instructor.

Go Farther. Check www.avalanche.ca for the latest forecast

Gord appreciates the fieldwork aspect of his job—snow and weather observations, hazard evaluation and avalanche forecasting. He enjoys travelling in the South Rockies backcountry and networking with other snowmobile and ski enthusiasts.

THE FREE PRESS Thursday, December 20, 2012

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Call 250-423-4666 for Subscriptions Established in Fernie, B.C. in 1898 and published weekly each Thursday by The Free Press, a division of Black Press Group Ltd. and distributed throughout the Elk Valley and South Country. Free circulation 6,000. Reproductions of any material contained in this publication is forbidden without the prior consent of the publisher.

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Letters Welcome The Free Press wants to hear your opinion, especially on local issues. We reserve the right to edit letters for legality, length and good taste, as well as the right to refuse publication of any submission. Copyright in letters and other materials submitted to the publisher and accepted for publication remains with the author, but the publisher and its licensees may freely reproduce them in print, electronic or other forms. Your letter must include your full name, address and phone number. All letters to the editor will be published with the authors name. 300 word limit per letter.

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Letters to the Editor

by Angela Treharne

Christmas, at least, according to the media, advertising, and everything else that bombards us with messages every day, is about spending time with family, having a big feast, sharing gifts and being filled with ‘Christmas cheer.’ That’s OK for everyone who has a family that fits into the mould of the ‘perfect’ family. Happy faces, laughing children, people who love you, and an abundance of cash, that is. But, guess what? Not everyone has a home from a Sears catalogue. Rather than being the happiest time of year, for many people Christmas is an unbearably lonely time. For those who don’t have family to share food and gifts with, being surrounded by images of Christmas merriment and perfect families only highlights the fact that they don’t fit the mould. Everywhere you turn, advertisements, magazines, TV and radio are all telling us we should have a family or someone special to spend Christmas with. For those who can’t be with loved ones, or do not have any, this just highlights the fact that they are alone. The fact is, for every person enjoying the Christmas that the TV, magazines and stores are telling us we should be, there is a person who is not, and who is feeling left out. There was an incident in the South Country this week that, according to the RCMP, appears to have been a suicide. Canadian statistics from helplines have shown that both the number and severity of calls by depressed persons increases every year through November and December, returning to normal volume towards the end of January. Christmas is depressing. But sometimes, all that is needed is someone to notice a person’s existence. If you know anybody who is spending Christmas alone, stop by with a card, invite them for dinner, or just knock on their door and say Merry Christmas. How good does it make you feel when a stranger smiles at you for no reason other than to show friendliness? Walking down the street, look people in the eye and smile. Make sure those who are feeling like they have nobody, know that other community members care, and they are not alone. Merry Christmas from all the staff at The Free Press: me, Dave, Bonny, Nicole, Andrea, Val and Kaitlyn.

Response to Peter Ross Peter quotes, "because they have little chance of forming the next government anyway.” He did not explain to the readers his reasons. Maybe Peter should note that in the Alberta provincial legislative there are four sitting NDP MLAs. In Saskatchewan, the NDP was the official opposition party before the 2011 election call, with 20 sitting NDP MLAs. After the election, they ended up with nine. They were not even the government in power and yet the Saskatchewan taxpayers blew them out the door. Saskatchewan is known for Tommy Douglas country, and today, Saskatchewan does not have one

sitting federal MP. In Manitoba, the NDP does hold government and in this year’s budgets, they gave the Manitoba taxpayers the highest tax increases that Manitobans have seen in 25 years. The NDP Sellinger government spends the taxpayers’ money like there is no tomorrow. In Ontario, the NDP is the third party, and holds 19 seats. The NDP was a one-term government in Ontario under Bob Rae and since then the taxpayers have put the NDP out to pasture. Quebec, New Brunswick, and Prince Edward Island do not have one elected provincial NDP MLA. Newfoundland has five NDP MLAs. The NDP is government in Nova Scotia and is being returned to opposition status in the spring election as Nova Scotians have

had enough. Once again, a one term government like that of Dave Barrett in B.C. and Bob Rae in Ontario. Peter seems to forget that Glen Clark was returned to government for a second time only with a three-seat majority. Peter is shooting off from the hip without thinking. Peter is a person that would not take back

a former spouse from a previous divorce to re-create the nightmare but is willing to do it with government. From 1952 to 2013, B.C. would have had 61 years of provincial governments, 48 with coalition governments and 13 with NDP governments. NDPers that voted for the Glen Clark government should note, "Fool me once, shame on you, fool me twice, shame

on me.” Peter has also not explained why he thinks the NDP will win government when in fact, they would be voted out in May of 2017. In future, Peter, maybe sort out your thoughts before commenting. A lot of us readers were not born yesterday. Joe Sawchuk, Duncan

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Letters to the Editor continued from page 6 No to Jumbo I would like to congratulate Mr. Peter Ross for his excellent letter. I too, question the complete destruction of wildlife habitat. I wonder about skiing on glaciers, especially since a recent scientific study has found that glaciers all over the world are melting at a far greater rate than formerly predicted. I think we need to protect every fresh water source, not deliberately destroy them. In November, I went to Cranbrook to take part in a demonstration opposing and condemning the pending so-called development. It was amazing to be with so many people, all who were protesting the devastation of this wondrous place. For centuries, the Ktunaxa people have considered Qat'Muk a special holy place where animals, plants and water should and are honoured and respected. Apparently, some people just call it another way to make money. I was angry before I heard that two councillors and a mayor had been appointed, then I was told that these people are being paid the grand sum of a million and a half dollars for "expenses" and they don't even need to be on site to "earn" this money. That really made me fume. This whole scheme to me, is nothing but a land grab and as far as I am concerned, if it is allowed to happen will destroy paradise and line the pockets of already rich people. That is my opinion anyway. Florence Phillips Fernie

THE FREE PRESS Thursday, December 20, 2012

High winds create chaos rollovers Winds in Southern Alberta cause problems for motorists on Highway 22 and Highway 3 By Joni MacFarlane Crowsnest Pass Promoter

Southern Alberta’s infamous winds wreaked havoc on Highway 22 last week, flipping over four vehicles between Maycroft and Highway 3. Crowsnest Pass RCMP were called out on Tuesday, December 11 at 9:13 a.m. as a semi tractor-trailer flipped over near Willow Creek Road. Before the morning was over, another two semi tractor-trailers and a vehicle pulling a utility trailer had all experienced a similar fate. Crowsnest Pass RCMP reported the four rollovers occurred between between 9 a.m. and 11 a.m. Minor injuries to two of the truck drivers were reported but no one was transported to

hospital. RCMP said the wind made it hard for officers to stand on the side of the road to investigate and assist motorists.

was 143 km/hour, he added. Last year, a task force initiated by Alberta Transportation that included RCMP and Alberta Health

the wind tunnel near Cow Creek. An RWIS is similar to the Alberta Motor Association cameras, he said, but detects more information such as wind

“When a certain wind velocity is detected (by the RWIS), the flashing lights will come on and the message will tell drivers what the wind speed is and to use an alternate route.” Rick Lemire Maintenance Contract Inspector, Alberta Transportation

A l b e r t a Transportation’s Rick Lemire, maintenance contract inspector, told The Promoter that the problem area starts at kilometre seven and runs to kilometre 20 along Highway 22 northbound from Highway 3. The strongest wind velocity recorded along this stretch was 189 km/hour. On the morning of Dec. 11, it

Services EMS proposed a system to warn motorists – particularly truck driver – of the excessive winds along this route. According to Lemire, Alberta Transportation is in the midst of setting up such a warning system. A Road Weather Information System (RWIS) has been installed on Highway 22 at the north end of

velocity, road temperatures, maximum gust speeds and other data. Lemire said the RWIS will be connected to two digital signs consisting of flashing lights and a “dynamic” message. “When a certain wind velocity is detected (by the RWIS), the flashing lights will come on and the message will tell drivers what the

District of Elkford 816 Michel Road P.O. Box 340 Elkford, B.C. V0B 1H0 P.250.865.4000 • F.250.865.4001 • info@elkford.ca • www.elkford.ca

Holiday Hours The District Ofﬁce, Community Conference Centre, Recreation Centre, Aquatic Center and Public Works will be closed December 25th and 26th, 2012 and January 1st, 2013. In case of an emergency please see the On Call Notice posted on the District of Elkford boards, go to our website at www.elkford.ca or call 250.910.4026.

Wishing you and yours a happy Holiday Season!

2013 Dog Licence Renewals The 2013 Dog Licence Renewals will be sent out in the next few weeks. The fee is $25.00 or $11.00 for a spayed or neutered dog licence. A late fee of $5.00 will be charged if the licence is not purchased by the end of February. New pet owners are required to purchase a licence. For new licences please bring the certiﬁcate of spaying/neutering.

Upcoming Council and Committee Meetings • January 14 General Meeting @ 6:00 pm • January 28 General Meeting @ 6:00 pm These meetings will be held in the Council Chambers at 816 Michel Road and are open to the public.

2013 Business Licence Renewals

The 2013 Business Licence Renewals have been sent out. The Annual Business Licence fee is $100. If payment is received by January 15th, 2013, the renewal fee is reduced to $75. If you have a 2012 Business Licence and do not receive your 2013 renewal notice, please contact the District Ofﬁce.

We’re on the prowl for adventurous spirits:

Manager of Planning and Development Services For more information: www.elkford.ca

wind speed is and to use an alternate route,” he said. One sign will be installed on Highway 3 at the south end of Highway 22 so drivers can continue on and use Highway 2 northbound. The other will be at the west end of Secondary Highway 533 from Nanton. Lemire said the project is currently in the design phase and sizing is being determined. They are also deciding what the wind speed should be to trigger the flashing lights and messaging, but suspects it will be around 80 km/hour. The system is expected to be in place in February or March, said Lemire.

www.thefreepress.ca

THE FREE PRESS Thursday, December 20, 2012

Around the Valley

Vandalized track stops coal train

Around the Valley is a free listing to any local service. Please send an email to editor@thefreepress.ca or drop off a brief description of your event at The Free Press office.

By Angela Treharne Free Press Staff

Banff Mountain Film Festival

Starting Friday, December 21 to Thursday, December 24

The Hobbit in 3D

Rise of the Guardians

Jan 3, 2013- Tickets on sale Nov 15 at The Guides Hut

Rated: PG 6:00 & 9:00 pm Rated: G 7:00 & 9:00 pm 2:30 pm matinee ONLY 3:00 pm matinee ONLY Matinees on Saturday & Sunday - $6.50 per person

321 2nd Avenue in Historical Downtown Fernie 250-423-7111

General

Senior

Family

$10.00

$8.00

$29.00

3D MOVIES

Child (12-)

$2.00 Extra $6.50

coal train was damaged last month after it hit a six-foot piece of rail that had been deliberately placed across the railway

tracks. The Canadian Pacific Police Service is investigating the incident near Sparwood and is looking for anyone with information to come forward. Kevin Hrysak from Canadian Pacific said the train had been damaged as a result of the November 12 incident and was forced to make an emergency stop. “At 12:05 p.m. a CP train was required to make an emergency stop after it made contact with a

six-foot piece of rail that was placed across the tracks,” he said. “This deliberate act of mischief resulted in damage to CP equipment and railway infrastructure and temporarily halted traffic on our rail line in this region. This incident could have resulted in more serious consequences in the surrounding community and personal injury.” CP Police Service along with local law enforcement are looking for the public’s help to solve this crime and prevent these types of actions from occurring in the future. If anyone has information relating to this investigation, contact the Canadian Pacific Police Control Centre at 1-800716-9132, Elk Valley RCMP at 1-250-425-6233 or Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS(8477).

THIS WEEK Thursday, December 20

• TOPS (Take Off Pounds Sensibly) meets every Thursday night, 6:15 -7:30 p.m. in the Salvation Army building. Call Isabel, 250-423-7043. • Every Thursday 6:30 p.m. onwards – fun darts at Sparwood Legion. • Fernie Elks Lodge meeting – promoting and supporting community needs. Call 250-423-7536. • 4-H Community Christmas Concert (music, fun, goodies and of course, Santa) welcome all young and young at heart. Pioneer Hall ,Grasmere. 7 p.m.

Friday, December 21

• Cribbage at Senior Drop-In Centre, Fernie, every Friday 7:30 p.m. •Sparwood Legion open jam session at 7 p.m. • Jitney darts every Friday at Fernie Royal Canadian Legion, 7:30 p.m. Drop in and meet new people. All adults welcome. If you are interested phone the lounge at 250-423-6218 for details.

Saturday, December 22

• Every Saturday meat draw and 50/50 draw at Sparwood Legion 4 to 6 p.m. • Fernie Legion meat draw 4 - 6 p.m.  Fun and Entertaining. All welcome to join us.

Sunday, December 23

• Alcoholics Anonymous meet at 7.30 p.m. in Fernie Anglican Church. Call 250-423-2131 for details. • LDS Family Services women’s only support group for spouses of those struggling with all addictions. Anonymous call-in group meets every Sunday 7 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. Call toll-free 1-877-453-7266 and enter meeting number ID 2977. • Pageant and potluck at Christ Church Anglican, Fernie. 9:30 a.m.

Monday, December 24

• Sonrise Healing Rooms open for prayer, 1 to 3 p.m. at 1361 Eighth Avenue, Fernie. • Holy Eucharist at Christ Church Anglican, Fernie. 4:30 p.m.

Tuesday, December 25 Merry Christmas!

Wednesday, December 26

• Alcoholics Anonymous meet at 7.30 p.m. in Fernie Anglican Church. Call 250 423-2131 for details. •Cribbage, Senior’s Drop In Centre, every Wednesday, 1 p.m. •Darts, Senior’s Drop In Centre, every Wednesday, 7 p.m. • Sonrise Healing Rooms open for

prayer, 7 to 9 p.m. at 1361 Eighth Avenue, Fernie.

Thursday, December 27

• TOPS (Take Off Pounds Sensibly) meets every Thursday night, 6:15 -7:30 p.m. in the Salvation Army building. Call Isabel, 250-423-7043. • Every Thursday 6:30 p.m onwards – fun darts at Sparwood Legion. • Fernie Elks Lodge meeting – promoting and supporting community needs. Call 250-423-7536. • Red Cedar Book Club for grades 4 to 7 at Fernie Heritage Library 6:30 to 7:45 p.m.

Friday, December 28

• Cribbage at Senior Drop-In Centre, Fernie, every Friday 7:30 p.m. • Jitney darts every Friday at Fernie Royal Canadian Legion, 7:30 p.m. Drop in and meet new people. All adults welcome. If you are interested phone the lounge at 250-423-6218 for details. •Sparwood Legion open jam session every second Friday at 7 p.m.

Saturday, December 29

• Fernie Legion meat draw 4 p.m. to 6 p.m.  Fun and Entertaining, All welcome to join us. • Every Saturday meat draw and 50/50 draw at Sparwood Legion 4 - 6 p.m.

Sunday, December 30

Monday, December 31

• Mahjong at Seniors Drop in centre, Fernie, every Monday at 7 p.m. • Dominoes at Seniors Drop in centre, Fernie, every Monday at 1 p.m. • Fernie Chamber Orchestra meets every Monday at 7 p.m. Musicians of all abilities are welcome. For more info call Yolaine at 250-423-7825 or wyhames@gmail.com • Sonrise Healing Rooms open for prayer, 1 to 3 p.m. at 1361 Eighth Avenue, Fernie.

Your Hometown Sears would like to wish everyone a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year! Come visit us Boxing Day and check out the great deals.

Tuesday, January 1 Happy New Year!

743 2nd Ave, Fernie (250) 423-6821

City Council Meeting Schedule December 2012 2 3 4 9 10 11 16 17 18 23 24 25 30 31

1 5 6 7 8 12 13 14 15 19 20 21 22 26 27 28 29

Regular Council meetings are open to the public and held at City Hall at 7:00 p.m.

City of Fernie Contact Info: City Hall

Office Hours: Mon.-Fri. 8 a.m.-5 p.m. (Closed statutory holidays) After Hours Phone: 250-423-4226 Fernie Aquatic Centre 250 Pine Avenue Phone: 250-423-4466 Fernie Memorial Arena 991-6th Avenue (Highway 3) Phone: 250-423-2254 For all Police, Ambulance or Fire related emergencies: Call 911

Merry Christmas! Members of the Fernie Fire Rescue Department would like to “Wish everyone a safe and happy holiday season” and remind everyone about the importance of fire safety at Christmas time. Don’t let fire ruin your holiday celebrations. Have a safe and Merry Christmas from Fernie Fire Rescue!

Season’s Greetings

Council and Staff for the City of Fernie wish everyone the best of the season. Warmest thoughts and best wishes for a wonderful holiday and a Happy New Year! City Hall - Holiday Hours Monday, December 24 Tuesday, December 25 Wednesday, December 26 Thursday, December 27 Friday, December 28 Monday, December 31 Tuesday, January 1, 2013

8:00 – 4:00 p.m. Closed Closed 8:00 – 5:00 p.m. 8:00 – 5:00 p.m. 8:00 – 5:00 p.m. Closed

In the Case of an emergency please call the Fire Hall at 250 423.4226

THE FREE PRESS Thursday, December 20, 2012

Christmas Pool Schedule

Fernie Aquatic Centre

Holiday Activities are scheduled for:

Happy Holidays

Dec 23, 2012 - Jan 5, 2013

Days of the week Date Sun Dec 23 Mon Tues Wed Thurs Fri

Ph: 250-423-6817 Fx: 250-423-3034 Email: cityhall@fernie.ca Website: www.fernie.ca 501-3rd Avenue, Box 190 Fernie, British Columbia V0B 1M0

www.thefreepress.ca

Sat Aqua-Fit Gentle Fit

Dec 30 Dec 24

Dec 31 Dec 25

Public Swim 2 - 8 pm

Water Slide 2:30 - 8 pm

Lane Swim 2 - 8 pm

8:30 am - 3:00 pm

11 am - 3:00 pm

8:30 am - 3:00 pm

CLOSED

Jan 1

for Christmas Day, New Years

Dec 26 Jan 2

8:30 am - 8:00 pm

Dec 27

Jan 3 Dec 28

Jan 4 Dec 29

Jan 5 Dec 24, 28, 31 2012 Jan 2, 4 2013 Dec 27, 2012 Jan 3, 4 2013

& Boxing Day! 12 - 6 pm

8:30 am - 8:00 pm

12 - 6 pm

8:30 am - 8:00 pm

12 - 6 pm

8:30 am - 8:00 pm

2 - 8 pm

2:30 - 8 pm

2 - 8 pm

8:30 am - 9:15 am 10:30 am - 11:15 am

December 24 December 25 & 26 December 27 & 28 December 31

12 noon – 2:00 pm Closed 4:30 – 6:30 pm 12 noon – 2:00 pm

January 2, 2013

6:00 p.m. (POLAR BEAR SWIM) 4:30 – 6:30 pm 4:30 – 6:30 pm

January 3 January 4

Classes will be continuing throughout the holiday Classes will be continuing throughout the holiday

250-423-4466 ext “0” - New Winter & Holiday Swim & Skate Schedules online at www.fernie.ca

Fernie Memorial Arena Holiday Skating Schedule Youth Shinny Dec 27, Dec 28, Jan 2, Jan 3, Jan 4 11:30 am - 1:00 pm Adult Shinny Dec 24, Dec 27, Dec 31, Jan 2, Jan 3 8:45 am - 10:15 pm

Public Skating During the Week Dec 24, Dec 27, Dec 28, Dec 31, Jan 2, Jan 3, Jan 4 1:30 pm - 3:00 pm

Public Skating On the Weekends Dec 22, Dec 23, Dec 29, Dec 30 pm 2:00 pm- 3:45 pm

2013 Council Meeting Schedule Notice In accordance with section 127 of the Community Charter and City of Fernie Council Procedure Bylaw No. 1956, notice is hereby given that Council has confirmed the 2013 schedule of the dates, times and place of Regular Council meetings. The schedule is posted on the City of Fernie Public Notice Board located adjacent to the Heritage Library at 492 - 3rd Avenue, Fernie B.C. A paper copy of the schedule is available to the public at any time during regular office hours which are Monday through Friday from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. except statutory holidays and is also posted on the City of Fernie website at www.fernie.ca

For Private Christmas Ice Booking please call 250 423-4466 ext 228

Council and Committee of the Whole Meeting Schedule

Holiday Garbage & Recycling Collection - Schedule Change

2nd and 4th Monday of each month (except for the month of December & Statutory Holidays) in Council Chambers at City Hall & 501-3rd Avenue. When a meeting falls on a statutory holiday, the meeting will be held on the next day City Hall is open.

The following changes will apply to the residential garbage and recycling collection schedule over the holiday season: Garbage Collection Regular Pick Up Tuesday, Dec 25 Wednesday, Dec 26 Thursday, Dec 27 Tuesday, Jan 1 Wednesday, Jan 2 Thursday, Jan 3

Revised Schedule Monday, Dec 24 no change no change Monday, Dec 31 no change no change

Recycling Collection Collection Area Collection Date Area 1 (Annex, Maintown, Dec 21 and Jan 4 Alpine Trails) Area 2 (West Fernie, Mt View Dec 28 and Jan 11 Castle Mtn, Ridgemont)

Please visit the website for the full 2013 garbage and recycle collection schedule www.fernie.ca. Fernie Transfer Station

Regular Hours: 9:00 - 5:00 pm Monday to Friday 10:00 - 4:00 pm Saturday and Sunday December 24 December 25 December 26 December 31 January 1

9:00 - 3:30 pm Closed 9:00 - 3:30 pm 9:00 - 3:30 pm Closed

Committee of the Whole Meetings are held at 10:00 a.m. Regular Council Meetings are held at 7:00 p.m. JANUARY

JULY

Monday 14 | Monday 28

Monday 8 | Monday 22

Tuesday 12 | Monday 25

Monday 12 | Monday 26

Monday 11 | Monday 25

Monday 9 | Monday 23

Monday 8 | Monday 22

Tuesday 15 | Monday 28

Monday 13 | Monday 27

Tuesday 12 | Monday 25

Monday 10 | Monday 24

Monday 16

FEBRUARY MARCH APRIL MAY

JUNE

AUGUST

SEPTEMBER OCTOBER

NOVEMBER DECEMBER

The regular meeting schedule is subject to change with notice. For more information regarding Council meetings or to request to be delegation please contact: Michelle Martineau,

Director of Corporate Administration Services (T) 250.423.2231 (F) 250. 423.3034 (E) michelle.martineau@fernie.ca

www.thefreepress.ca

THE FREE PRESS Thursday, December 20, 2012

d is tr i c t o f spa rwo o d Box 520, 136 Spruce Avenue, Sparwood, BC V0B 2G0 Phone: 250.425.6271 | Fax: 250.425.7277 Email: sparwood@sparwood.ca

www.sparwood.ca

HOLIDAY HOURS AND INFORMATION

The District of Sparwood Municipal Office and Engineering Office will be closed Monday, December 24, 2012 to Friday, December 28, 2012 inclusive and Tuesday, January 1, 2013. Both offices will be open for regular hours Monday, December 31, 2012. Anyone wishing to make tax or utility payments can do so by leaving a cheque in the drop box located at the front entry, or by internet payment through your financial institution.

Household Garbage Collection All garbage normally picked up on Tuesday, December 25, will be picked up on Monday, December 24 and all garbage normally picked up on Wednesday, December 26, will be picked up on Thursday, December 27. All garbage normally picked up on Tuesday, January 1, 2013, will be picked up on Wednesday, January 2, 2013. PLEASE HAVE YOUR GARBAGE SET OUT BY 8:00 A.M. There are no limits on number of garbage bags from December 17, 2012 to January 11, 2013. A reminder that cardboard is banned from the landﬁll site and must not be put out with your household refuse. Christmas wrapping “paper” (not foil) can be recycled. All uncontaminated cardboard must be RECYCLED. Transfer Station Operating Hours December 24, 2012 10:00 am to 3:30 pm December 25 and 26, 2012 Closed December 31, 2012 10:00 am to 3:30 pm January 1, 2013 Closed

Discarding Christmas Trees You may drop off your old Christmas trees behind Fire Hall No. 1 on Pine Avenue or behind the Sparwood Heights Fire Hall. The District will provide pick up service for those who are unable to drop them off. Leave the tree at your curb for pickup any time up to January 11, 2013. Please ensure that you have removed the tinsel before discarding tree. For further information, please contact the Public Works Department at 425-7760. For any Animal Pound Emergencies call 425-7718 From Council and Staff of the District of Sparwood Have a Safe and Happy Holiday Season

NOTICE OF REGULAR COUNCIL MEETINGS FOR 2013 January 7 January 21

May 6 May 21 (Tuesday)

February 4 February 18

June 3 June 17

March 4 March 18

July 2 (Tuesday) July 15

April 2 (Tuesday) April 15

August 6 (Tuesday) August 19

September 3 (Tuesday) October 7 October 21 November 4 November 18 December 2 December 16

Items for the agenda must be received at the Municipal Ofﬁce by noon on the Wednesday preceding the meeting. Anyone wishing to address Council must submit an Application to Appear Before Council, available on the District’s website, by fax or request at the front counter. All Regular Meetings commence at 7:00 p.m. in the Council Chambers of the Municipal Ofﬁce, 136 Spruce Avenue, Sparwood, BC and are televised on Shaw Cable at 7:00 p.m. on the Wednesday following the meeting or at other times as advertised. Meetings will also be available on our website at www.sparwood.ca/councilmeetings and on our facebook page at www.facebook.com/sparwood.bc

COMMITTEE OF THE WHOLE MEETINGS FOR 2013 January 28 February 25 March 25 April 29

May 27 June 24 July 29 August 26

September 30 October 28 November 25

All Committee of the Whole Meetings commence at 7:00 p.m. in the Council Chambers of the Municipal Ofﬁce, 136 Spruce Avenue, Sparwood, BC. This schedule of Regular and Committee of the Whole meeting dates is available throughout the year on the District’s website at www.sparwood.ca and at the District Ofﬁce. Raeleen Manjak Director of Corporate Services

Request for Quotation (RFQ) Number: 2013-013

Towing Services for the District of Sparwood The District of Sparwood is requesting information from interested parties for the supply of towing services within the District of Sparwood boundaries. The District of Sparwood reserves the right to waive informalities, to reject any or all RFQ’s, or to accept the RFQ deemed most favourable in the interest of the District of Sparwood. The District of Sparwood Sparwood is situated in the Rocky Mountains of south eastern BC. Our location offers a myriad of outdoor recreational opportunities, stunning vistas, and all the fresh elements naturally afforded in a spectacular mountain setting. We're a working community. We've always been involved in the mining industry, and coal is at the core of our community. But we're more than metallurgical ore; we're a group of people who are united in interests, activities and place. Sparwood was originally a collection of five coal mining communities. During the 1960's, the communities were consolidated into one area or District, called Sparwood, in homage to the history of trees harvested in the area intended for use as masts on ships. For a complete overview on our incredible Rocky Mountain mining community, download and view our Community Profile. Local Government in Sparwood Sparwood’s local government is lead by a proactive Mayor and six Councillors that work hard to explore opportunities for diversification and growth. The Chief Administrative Officer (CAO) is appointed by and reports to the Municipal Council. The CAO oversees the overall administration of the Municipality, its officers and employees. In addition, the CAO is charged with keeping Council up to date on corporate matters, advising Council on policy and other matters and ensuring that Council policy is implemented. The CAO also leads the senior management team and sets the overall strategic direction for short and long term administrative goals The Purpose of Issuing this RFQ is to: a) Receive quotations; and to b) Award the contract for the provision of towing services within District boundaries. Interested parties are invited to respond to this RFQ by submitting a response to the District. Responses should include ideas, information, and recommendations that could result in a clarification of the requirements, cost-saving opportunities, and the identification of potential problem areas with this initiative. RFQ Specifications: Specifically, this project is to provide towing and impound services for the District of Sparwood, as required. It is expected that this quotation will outline requirements such as; a 6 am to 4 pm availability, local impound locations and hours of operation, collection and remittance of fees, and fee structure for different types of towing services. Term: The term is for a three (3) year period. The District of Sparwood will require information as to the following services provided: • Local impound yard; • Collection of fees; • 6 am to 4 pm availability; • After hours contact information and availability;

• Fee structure for towing different types of vehicles; Respondents are requested to provide a concise and focused response to this RFQ. Responses are requested in the following format: a) Brief company or personal profile; b) Name of a key contact person, including telephone number, fax number and email address; c) Your interest in providing the services; d) Brief description of experience in the towing industry; e) From your past experience, has the District identified all the major components necessary to complete this project? If not, please provide information on other necessary components; f) Please provide a list of potential problems/risks that the District may encounter during this project; g) Please provide any ideas or suggestions about how such problems/risks should be addressed in a solicitation; h) Please provide a per type of tow rate; i) Two (2) professional references; j) Your ability to provide for back-up and substitution if you are unable to provide available towing services; k) Identification and discussion of key factors that the respondent recommends the District consider when establishing its future business requirements; and l) Other required information specific to the nature of this RFQ and deemed important by the respondent. If subsequent competitive bidding opportunities are issued, the District is under no obligation to advise any vendor responding to this RFQ. Vendors are advised to monitor the District of Sparwood website (www. sparwood.ca) for any such opportunities, which will be open to all vendors regardless of whether or not a response to this RFQ has been submitted. All responses to this RFQ become the property of the District and will be held in confidence, subject to the provisions of the Freedom of Information and Protection of Privacy Act. Respondents to this RFQ consent to the District incorporating any submitted ideas, concepts, approaches, or strategies into any planning, design, procurement, or contractual activities related to any aspect of the project without any obligation, liability, or consideration on the part of the District. The District will not be responsible for any costs incurred by any vendor in responding to this RFQ. Responses should be delivered by hand, regular mail, facsimile or email to the following location before 4:00 p.m. Mountain Time on January 3, 2013 and should quote RFQ Number 2013-013. District of Sparwood PO Box 520 136 Spruce Avenue Sparwood, BC V0B 2G0 Fax: 250-425-7277 Email: mbohmer@sparwood.ca OR Contact Person: Mel Bohmer Director of Operations 250-425-7760 mbohmer@sparwood.ca

www.thefreepress.ca

THE FREE PRESS Thursday, December 20, 2012

a e r b y d d e

TOSS

When the Ghostriders

score their 1st goal throw a teddy bear

on the ice!

Friday, December 21st

Ghostriders Home Game

Bears will be taken to the

Fernie Salvation Army!

Fernie Memorial Arena â&#x20AC;˘ Game Time: 7:30 pm Purchase your teddy bear at

Canadian Tire

www.thefreepress.ca

THE FREE PRESS Thursday, December 20, 2012

Have your say on proposed underground coal mine In the spirit of the season we offer you our sincerest wishes and deepest gratitude. May you have the happiest, most fun-ﬁlled holiday season ever.

Marian B. Gravelle - Notary Public & Staff Sparwood Ofﬁce: 114 Centennial Square Toll Free:1-800-668-7729 Fax: 250-425-2204

Fernie Ofﬁce: 78 Ridgemont Drive Phone: 250-423-2161 Fax: 250-423-6149

Job opportunity The Sparwood Golf Club requires a bookkeeper on a part-time basis starting in January 2013. The position is year round, with the majority of work during the golf season. The average number of hours is between 9 and 15 per week. Applicants must be knowledgeable with recognized accounting principles, as well as proficient with Simply Accounting Pro. Duties include, but are not limited to: payroll; accounts payable; accounts receivable; monthly bank reconciliation; cash-out reconciliation; filing of all mandatory employment related costs; and submission of all government taxes. For more information, or to apply, please contact: Rod Uhll, Manager Sparwood Golf Club 250-425-2612 rod@sparwoodgolf.com

CHRISTMAS CLOSURE

By Angela Treharne Free Press Staff

he Canadian Environmental Assessment Agency is calling on members of the public to give their opinion on whether or not they should carry out an assessment on the proposed Bingay Main Coal Project near Elkford. Centremount Coal Limited is proposing the construction, operation, and decommissioning of an open pit and underground coal mine located approximately 21 kilometres north of Elkford, in southeastern British Columbia. As proposed, the project would produce two million tonnes of metallurgical coal per year over a mine life of 20 years. As part of the strengthened and modernized Canadian Environmental Assessment Act, 2012 (CEAA 2012) put in place to support the government's Responsible Resource Development Initiative, the

Canadian Environmental Assessment Agency must determine whether a federal environmental assessment is required. To assist it in making its decision, the Agency is seeking comments from the public on the project and its potential effects on the environment. Written comments must be submitted by December 23 to: Bingay Main Coal Project Canadian Environmental Assessment Agency 410 - 701 West Georgia Street Vancouver BC V7Y 1C6 Telephone: 604-666-2431 Fax: 604-666-6990 Bingay@ceaa-acee.gc.ca To view a summary of the project description or for more information on the project and on the environmental assessment process, visit the Agency’s website (registry reference number 80024). The Agency will post a decision stating whether a federal environmental assessment is

required on its website. Céline Legault , Communications Advisor at CEAA, said that if it is determined that a federal environmental assessment is required, the public will have three more opportunities to comment on this project, consistent with the transparency and public engagement elements of CEAA 2012. “Projects subject to CEAA 2012 are assessed using a science-based approach,” she said. “If the project is permitted to proceed to the next phase, this project will continue to be subject to Canada’s strong environmental laws, rigorous enforcement and follow-up, and increased fines.” The Canadian Environmental Assessment Agency administers the federal environmental assessment process, which identifies the environmental effects of proposed projects and measures to address those effects, in support of sustainable development.

Library benefits from marathon

Nufloors is CLOSED: Saturday, December 22nd to Wednesday, December 26th Nufloors is OPEN: Thursday, December 27th and Friday, December 28th 9:30 A.M. – 3:30 P.M. Nufloors will be CLOSED: Saturday, December 29th to Tuesday, January 1st Nufloors will re-open regular hours January 2nd If you need assistance while we are closed, please call the store at 250-423-4314 and leave your name and number We will get back to you as soon as possible to arrange an appointment Nufloors wishes everyone a Merry Christmas And the very Best in the New Year

Mary Ann Bernier, Fernie Half Marathon organizer, hands a cheque for $2,000 to Emma Dressler from the Fernie Heritage Library. Submitted photo By Angela Treharne Free Press Staff

hildren’s programming at the Fernie Heritage Library got a boost from the Fernie Half Marathon this month with a cheque for $2,000.

For all of your personal, commercial or industrial automotive repair needs! come into elkford and check out our newly expanded parts showroom. new stock arriving daily! From bumper to bumper and the ground up come see Mountain Mechanical for all of your repair needs!

Home of the elk valley’s Most exPerienced Mechanics!

The money comes from the proceeds of the event in October. Library Director, Emma Dressler, said, “Every year the Friends of the Fernie Heritage Library are delighted to get this boost from the half marathon for children’s programming.”

Wishing all of our clients a Happy Holiday Season! From the staff at Coal Valley Motor Products

Free local pick up and delivery! Sparwood - 743 Douglas Fir

250-425-6535

Now hiring for service, parts and warehouse. Please don’t drink & drive

Elkford - 1 Front Street

250-865-4622

16 Manitou Road, Fernie (250) 423-9288

www.thefreepress.ca

By Nicole Liebermann Free Press Staff

he cost of curbside waste and recycling collection is about to be a little lower for Fernie residents. The recent awarding of a

2013

FOCUS

new contract with Southeast Contracting Ltd. for the removal of solid waste and recycling has resulted in a large savings for the City of Fernie. The cost is paid for by Fernie residents and covers curbside service, as well as collection of the City-owned waste and

SE SEDAN

$ 2013

WELL- EQUIPPED FOR ONLY

15,999 *

1,000

VISIT BCFORD.CA OR YOUR BC FORD STORE FOR DETAILS.

recycling bins around town. The current fee residents pay for the service is $8.36 a month, or $100.32 a year. The annual charges are being reduced by just over $65,000 a year, making a significant difference in the regular fees.

THE SIMPLE

SALES EVENT

F-150 GET UP TO

SUPER CAB XLT 4X4 PAYLOAD†† TOWING†† POWER†††

WELL- EQUIPPED FOR ONLY

OFFER INCLUDES $4,000

OFFER INCLUDES $7,500

OFFER INCLUDES $3,000

MANUFACTURER REBATE AND $1,650 FREIGHT & AIR TAX.

MANUFACTURER REBATE AND $1,700 FREIGHT & AIR TAX.

MANUFACTURER REBATE AND $1,650 FREIGHT & AIR TAX.

31,499 *

“Due to the reduction in the contract, cost recovery can now be achieved at $5.81 per month, which is $69.92 a year,” explained Jim Hendricks, Director of Financial and Computer Services and Acting CAO for the City. “That’s a reduction of $30.60 per

OFFER ENDS DECEMBER 25 T H †

IN REBATES

7,500 ON VIRTUALLY ALL NEW 2013 MODELS.

2013

ESCAPE ALL-NEW

SE FWD 2.0L ECOBOOST®

WELL- EQUIPPED FOR ONLY

26,499 *

PLUS

ELIGIBLE COSTCO MEMBERS RECEIVE AN ADDITIONAL

▲

IT'S THAT SIMPLE.

ON MOST NEW 2012 AND 2013 MODELS

bcford.ca

WISE BUYERS READ THE LEGAL COPY: Vehicle(s) may be shown with optional equipment. Dealer may sell or lease for less. Limited time offers. Offers may be cancelled at any time without notice. Dealer order or transfer may be required as inventory may vary by dealer. See your Ford Dealer for complete details or call the Ford Customer Relationship Centre at 1-800-565-3673. †Until December 25, 2012, receive $750/ $1,000/ $1,250/ $1,500/ $1,750/ $2,000/ $3,000/ $3,500/ $3,750/ $4,000/ $4,750/ $5,000/ $5,500/ $6,000/ $6,500/ $7,500 in Manufacturer Rebates with the purchase or lease of a new 2013 Edge SE/ Fiesta S, Flex SE, Explorer Base, Transit Connect, E-Series/ Focus ST, Fusion Hybrid/ Focus S, Focus BEV, Mustang V6 Coupe, Taurus SE, F-150 Regular Cab XL 4x2 (value Leader)/Fusion (excluding Hybrid)/ CMAX, F-350 to F-550 Chassis Cabs/ Explorer (excluding Base), Escape (excluding S)/Fiesta (excluding S), Flex (excluding SE)/ Mustang V6 Premium/ Focus (excluding S, ST and BEV), F-250 to F-450 (excluding Chassis Cabs) Gas engine / Mustang GT, Edge AWD (excluding SE)/ Expedition / Taurus (excluding SE), Edge FWD (excluding SE), F-150 Regular Cab (excluding XL 4x2) non 5.0L/ F-150 Regular Cab (excluding XL 4x2) 5.0L, F-250 to F-450 (excluding Chassis Cabs) Diesel Engine/F-150 Super Cab and Super Crew non 5.0L/F-150 Super Cab and Super Crew 5.0L– all Raptor, GT500, BOSS302, Transit Connect EV and Medium Truck models excluded. This offer can be used in conjunction with most retail consumer offers made available by Ford of Canada at either the time of factory order or delivery, but not both. Manufacturer Rebates are not combinable with any fleet consumer incentives. *Purchase a new 2013 Focus SE Sedan/2013 Escape SE FWD with 2.0L EcoBoost engine/2013 F-150 XLT Super Cab 4x4 with 5.0L engine for $15,999/$26,499/$31,499. Taxes payable on full amount of purchase price after Manufacturer Rebate of $4,000/$3,000/$7,500 has been deducted. Offers include freight and air tax of $1,650/$1,650/$1,700 but exclude variable charges of license, fuel fill charge, insurance, dealer PDI (if applicable), registration, PPSA, administration fees and charges, any environmental charges or fees, and all applicable taxes. Manufacturer Rebates can be used in conjunction with most retail consumer offers made available by Ford of Canada at either the time of factory order or delivery, but not both. Manufacturer Rebates are not combinable with any fleet consumer incentives. ▲Offer only valid from December 1, 2012 to January 31, 2013 (the “Offer Period”) to resident Canadians with a Costco membership on or before November 30, 2012. Use this $1,000CDN Costco member offer towards the purchase or lease of a new 2012/2013 Ford vehicle (excluding Fiesta, Focus, Fusion HEV & Energi, C-Max, Raptor, GT500, Mustang Boss 302, Transit Connect EV & Medium Truck) (each an “Eligible Vehicle”). The Eligible Vehicle must be delivered and/or factory-ordered from your participating Ford/Lincoln dealer within the Offer Period. Offer is only valid at participating dealers, is subject to vehicle availability, and may be cancelled or changed at any time without notice. Only one (1) offer may be applied towards the purchase or lease of one (1) Eligible Vehicle, up to a maximum of two (2) separate Eligible Vehicle sales per Costco Membership Number. Offer is transferable to persons domiciled with an eligible Costco member. This offer can be used in conjunction with most retail consumer offers made available by Ford Motor Company of Canada at either the time of factory order (if ordered within the Offer Period) or delivery, but not both. Offer is not combinable with any CPA/GPC or Daily Rental incentives, the Commercial Upfit Program or the Commercial Fleet Incentive Program (CFIP). Applicable taxes calculated before $1,000CDN offer is deducted. Dealer may sell or lease for less. Limited time offer, see dealer for details or call the Ford Customer Relationship Centre at 1-800-565-3673. ††When properly equipped. Max. towing of 11,300 lbs with 3.5L EcoBoost 4x2 and 4x4 and 6.2L 2 valve V8 4x2 engines. Max. payload of 3,120 lbs with 5.0L Ti-VCT V8 engine. Class is Full-Size Pickups under 8,500 lbs GVWR vs. 2012/2013 competitors. †††Max. horsepower of 411 and max. torque of 434 on F-150 6.2L V8 engine. Class is Full–Size Pickups under 8,500 lbs GVWR vs. 2012/2013 comparable competitor engines. ©2012 Sirius Canada Inc. “SiriusXM”, the SiriusXM logo, channel names and logos are trademarks of SiriusXM Radio Inc. and are used under licence. ©2012 Ford Motor Company of Canada, Limited. All rights reserved.

City of Fernie to lower waste and recycling costs THE FREE PRESS Thursday, December 20, 2012

year, per household, which more than offsets the [recent] $26.52 increase in water and sewage usage fees.” The new fees will come into effect on January 1, 2013.

Available in most new Ford vehicles with 6-month pre-paid subscription

THE FREE PRESS Thursday, December 20, 2012

Regional District of East Kootenay

BYLAW 2399

Bylaw Amendment - Jaffray

The Regional District of East Kootenay (RDEK) Board of Directors is considering an application by Anderson Holdings Ltd. to amend the Jaffray, Tie Lake, Rosen Lake Land Use and Floodplain Management Bylaw. If approved, the amendment will change the land use designation of the subject property to facilitate a two lot subdivision. The subject property is located on Highway 3/93 in Jaffray and is shown on the attached map. Bylaw No. 2399 cited as “Regional District of East Kootenay – Jaffray, Tie Lake, Rosen Lake Land Use and Floodplain Management Bylaw No. 1414, 1999 – Amendment Bylaw No. 19, 2012 (Jaffray / Anderson Holdings Ltd.)” will amend the land use designation of the subject property from RR-1, Rural Residential (Estate) Zone to RS-1 Single Family Residential Zone. A public hearing will be held at: Jaffray Community Hall 7375 Jaffray Village Loop Road Jaffray, BC Wednesday, January 2, 2013 at 4:00 pm The Board has delegated the holding of this hearing to the Directors for Electoral Areas A and B. If you believe that your interest in property is affected by the proposed Bylaw, you may prior to the hearing: • inspect the Bylaw and supporting information at the RDEK office in Cranbrook from 8:30 am to 4:30 pm Monday through Friday, excluding statutory holidays; • mail, fax or email written submissions to the addresses/numbers shown below; or • present written and/or verbal submissions at the hearing. Submissions cannot be accepted after the public hearing. All written submissions are public information pursuant to the Freedom of Information and Protection of Privacy Act. This notice is not an interpretation of the Bylaw. For more information, contact Tracy Van de Wiel, Planning Technician, at 250-489-0306, toll free at 1-888-478-7335, or email tvandewiel@rdek.bc.ca.

RDEK Holiday Hours Fernie Transfer Station

(Regular Hours: 9:00am - 5:00pm Mon to Fri and 10:00am - 4:00pm Sat and Sun)

December 24 December 25 December 26 December 31 January 1

9:00 am to 3:30 pm Closed 9:00 am to 5:00pm 9:00 am to 3:30 pm Closed

Sparwood Transfer Station

(Regular Hours: 10:00am to 5:00pm Monday to Saturday)

December 24 December 25 & 26 December 27 to 29 December 31 January 1

10:00 am to 3:30 pm Closed 10:00 am to 5:00 pm 10:00 am to 3:30 pm Closed

Elkford Transfer Station

(Regular Hours: 9:30am - 3:30pm Tues, Thurs and Friday 10:00am to 5:00pm Saturday)

December 25 & 26 Closed December 27 to 28 9:30 am to 3:30pm December 29 10:00 am to 5:00pm January 1 Closed Back to regular winter hours effective January 3, 2013

RDEK Cranbrook Office

(Regular Hours: Monday to Friday 8:30am-4:30pm)

December 24 December 25 & 26 December 31 January 1

8:30 am - 3:00 pm Closed 8:30 am to 3:00 pm Closed

19 - 24th Avenue South, Cranbrook BC V1C 3H8 Phone: 250-489-2791 Toll Free: 1-888-478-7335 Email: info@rdek.bc.ca Website: www.rdek.bc.ca

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Teens put the spotlight on bullying By Jenna Jensen Contributor

n a joint effort with the District Student Advisory Council and Student Voices, teens from Cranbrook to Elkford gathered together to put the spotlight on bullying. Student Voices began in 1990, when a group of dedicated students and educators saw a need for enhancing student leadership in British Columbia. The B.C. Principals’ & VicePrincipals’ Association, with the support of the Ministry of Education, assisted the group in launching a concept called BC Student Voice. Since then, the Voice has grown to represent all regions across the province. BC Student Voice has placed representatives on provincial Ministry of Education committees and represented student opinion at regional and provincial meetings and played a very important role in students getting their voices heard and influencing decisions that affect their education. With bullying at the forefront of student and school concerns, thoughts from students who are at the heart of the issue are seen to make a huge impact on what school staff, adults and parents can do to help. Information, thoughts and ideas gathered during the

student discussions will then be taken to higher levels within the BC education system as well as being heard by the Minister of Education. Leadership students from each school within School District 5 took the trip to Elkford and spent the day in discussions focused on bullying, what resources are available and what can be done to stop the epidemic of peer bullying. The overwhelming theme to the discussions were that students felt as if teachers, principals and parents could do very little to stop bullying and it was up to the students as a collective peer group to put an end it. "Eden Miller, a grade 9 student from Parkland Elementary School, said, "It really needs to be the students taking a stand to fix this.” Kieyra Harris, a grade 11 student from Mt. Baker stressed the importance of having programs in communities that involve peers. "Sometimes our parents don't really know about bullying and aren't sure what to do to help," she said. "It is obvious that bullying is everywhere. We could talk about it all we want, but we need to actually do something about it to make a difference," said Savanah Kormil, a grade 9 student from Jaffray.

Students from across the District gather together at Elkford Secondary School to discuss bullying. Photo by J. Jensen

Students all said that peer support, and a strong peer counseling system is somewhat effective in combating bullying. "It is the peer support that is necessary," said Scott Takenaka, a grade 12 student from Elkford Secondary School. "At our school we have a group of girls and guys available for peer support. It’s completely helpful. Teachers and adults don't really make a big difference but when a student is getting bullied and they are able to come talk to other peers about the situation it helps.”

Notice of planned work Teck will be carrying out slope remediation work on Sparwood Ridge near Highway 3, 1km east of the Highway 3/43 intersection. Work is expected to begin in mid-December, if weather permits. Phase 1 will involve ground work in preparation for slope remediation, which is expected to be carried out in early 2013. During this time, heavy equipment will be operating between Highway 3 and the power line. For your safety and ours, please do not enter this area. This work will not affect highway traffic flow, but please be aware heavy equipment will be accessing the site from the Coal Discovery Centre intersection on Highway 3 in Sparwood. Further information will be advertised before Phase 2 of this project. If you have any questions, contact Nic Milligan, Manager of Community and Aboriginal Affairs, at 250 423 3335 or nic.milligan@teck.com

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Arts&Entertainment

THE FREE PRESS Thursday, December 20, 2012

For the love of dance By Jenna Jensen Contributor

any proud parents, family members, friends and guests attended Sparwood's first ever dance recital titled 'For the Love of Dance.’ Hosted by the District of Sparwood Community and Facility Services, 65 kids between two and 13 danced the night away in perfectly organized routines taught by Sparwood's newest dance teacher, Kelly Stoffelf. The recital, held at Sparwood Secondary School saw many ballet and jazz performances by all of the dancers and special guest dancer Reagen Etue wowed the crowd. "This program was hugely popular,” said Sheri Taylor from Sparwood Recreation Department. “This is the first time we have had a dance program in Sparwood and the community absolutely loved it, so much we have even had to add on extra classes. So many people came out to the recital and all the dancers had so much fun and loved the experience." Registration is again underway for classes and the Sparwood Recreation Department is looking forward to another successful dancing year for kids in the community. Dancers put on an excellent performance at Sparwood’s first ever dance recital.

Celebrate the holidays with the Fernie Heritage Library By Nicole Liebermann Free Press Staff

he Fernie Heritage Library invites everyone out to their annual Christmas Celebration this Saturday, from 2 to 4 p.m. Adults and children are welcome and there will be activities for

all to enjoy. Come and have fun with cookie decorating, showings of The Grinch, crafts, plus a poetry writing Xmas Slam workshop for kids ages nine through 12, with Natalie Fisher and Adam Macdonald. It’s not all about the kids, adults can take

HAPPY HOLIDAYS

from Dr. Amos Kahane, Dr. Marcela Kahane, Dr. Karl Peach, Rhonda, Deana, Ute, Jan, Samantha, Philomena, Sarah, Terylene & Jodi

part in the Christmas cookie potluck starting at 3:15 p.m., and everyone can join in on the community carol sing from 3:30 to 4 p.m. The festivities will also include a few special surprises, a wacky photo booth, and of course, lot of gingerbread and cider!

Submitted photo

Shortbread showdown By Angela Treharne Free Press Staff

Do you have the best shortbread recipe and are dying to show it off? Here’s your chance! The second annual Shortbread Showdown is happening this Sunday, so get your oven mitts at the ready as this contest is sure to heat up! Enter a few dozen cookies and see how yours stack up. Or, if you are not blessed with baking skills, come and enjoy tasting! Cookies are displayed without bakers’ names attached so there is no favouritism. You just pay an entry fee, then get tasting. Vote by putting money in the jar in front of the tastiest cookie! All money raised will go towards the fundraising efforts for the Youth Public Art Project. Register by Friday, December 21 and drop off cookies on Sunday, December 23 at noon. The competition will be on Sunday from 1 to 3 p.m. at The Arts Station, Fernie. For more information or to register call 250-423-4842 or email info@theartsstation.com.

RedGirl to Jingle Bell Rock The Arts Station By Nicole Liebermann Free Press Staff

ernie favourite RedGirl will delight audiences with a free, holiday themed performance tonight. The local band will take the stage at The Arts Station as part of Fernie’s What the Dickens winter festival. Frontwoman Anie Hepher will also lead the Fernie Ukulele Orchestra in their very first performance as the opening act. The orchestra, featuring 30 young ukulele players, will play in the lobby of The Arts Station

from 7:30 p.m. until 7:50 p.m. RedGirl will get the main event started at 8 p.m. on the main stage. While everyone is welcome to come check out the Ukulele Orchestra at no cost, a ticket is required to stay for RedGirl’s show. While admission is free, there’s only a limited amount of space available. Just 90 tickets can be picked up at The Arts Station prior to the concert. Donations will be welcome, with all of the proceeds going to the Earl family, in support of two-year-old Lily Earl’s ongoing leukaemia treatment.

At this holiday time we wish to thank you for your valued business. Serving your dental needs is our pleasure and we look forward to serving you in the New Year!

check us out at www.kahane.ca Dr. A.m. Kahane Inc. 292-2nd Ave., fernie Ph: 250-423-6838 fx: 250-423-6839 dentist@kahane.ca

We InvIte YOu tO cOme See Our neWLY remODeLeD OffIce WHen We reOPen On JAnuArY 14! Please remember that we are closed for renovations from December 20 thru Januar y 14.

THE FREE PRESS Thursday, December 20, 2012

www.thefreepress.ca

Student rewarded for bicycle safety By Nicole Liebermann Free Press Staff

rade one student Ruby Staples is the lucky winner of the Elk Valley RCMP’s Get Caught Being Good bicycle safety program. The Isabella Dicken Elementary School student has received a $500 gift certificate to The Guides Hut, meant to be used towards the purchase of a new bike. In conjunction with Teck Coal, Get Caught Being Good encourages and recognizes safe bicycle practices in Fernie, Sparwood, and Elkford.

RCMP, along with local firefighters, spent time on the streets over the last few months looking for individuals wearing properly fitting bicycle helmets, and acting as positive role models for bicycle safety in their community. Adults and children who were found demonstrating safe bicycle practices were given the chance to enter a draw for the program’s grand prizes. Ruby has received the youth prize, while an adult will be rewarded with a gift certificate for a night’s stay at Island Lake Lodge.

May your Christmas be stuffed with spirited times and wonderful things. Bellevue Vet Clinic Main Street, Bellevue, AB 1-866-563-5400 (Toll Free) Office Hours: Mon., Tues., Wed. & Fri., 8-5 Thurs., 8-8

Constable Dave Trenholm with the Elk Valley RCMP and Tammy Ogden with Teck Coal present Ruby Staples with a $500 gift certificate to purchase a new bike. Photo by N. Liebermann

Caught being good goes great By Jenna Jensen Contributor

R ! s a tm Merry Chris

tometry from the statt at Rocky Mountain Op

unning for the second year in a row, the Caught Being Good program has been a huge success in many ways. The program, which runs from May until September, was initiated after police had attended to sev-

eral unfortunate head injuries stemming from local residents falling off their bikes without wearing a helmet. "We really noticed that people biking in the backcountry, and on trails did in fact wear helmets frequently. It was the people just biking around town that didn't,” said Cpl. Don

Thank You

Hope it’s your best one yet!

Thank you to the community for its continued support in fundraising for Muscular Dystrophy and the Burn Unit. A special thank you the little boy from the Bean Pod Naoise Heavey who gave us his big bowl of tips from the day. Thank you Fernie and surrounding area! Fernie Fire Rescue

Come and check out our newly renovated ofﬁce. We carry a wide range of frames including: Oakleys, Rudy Project, Maui Jim and many more!

Rocky Mountain Optometry 250-423-4467 • Fernie 250-865-2022 • Elkford 403-562-7144 • Blairmore

Wishing You lots of

Christmas Fun

Elk Valley Denture Clinic 302A 2nd Ave Fernie, BC (250) 423-7236

Erichsen, who was instrumental in bringing this initiative to the valley. "We really felt like in this circumstance it would be beneficial to acknowledge positive behaviour instead of the negative, and that's where Caught Being Good began," he said. Throughout the summer months the RCMP and firefighters were seen out and about, identifying and acknowledging residents that were obeying the rules, mainly by wearing a helmet. Those caught being good were given a voucher, and entered into a draw. Early in November the draw was made for prizes, and thanks to a successful program partnership with Teck, the stakes were higher, and prizewinners were drawn for each community in the Elk Valley. The youth winners were awarded a $500 gift certificate for a new bike, and the adult winners each received a one-

night stay, including breakfast and dinner at Island Lake Lodge. "We are extremely blessed that Teck is such a generous corporate partner for this program and that we could extend it across the entire Elk Valley," said Erichsen. The youth will each be presented their award at their school, ensuring more positive exposure for the program. "Injury from riding bikes in town without a helmet was a serious public safety issue, and we have seen no reoccurrences in the last 12 months," reported Erichsen. Caught being good will resume again in 2013. The 2012 youth winners were: Benjamin Durban (Elkford), Charli Allardice (Sparwood) and Ruby Staples (Fernie). The adult winners were: Mary Haybour (Elkford), Sidharth Mehta (Sparwood) and Aaron Anderson (Fernie).

14K diamond earrings made in store in about 1 hour Starting at $169.00/pair "For the Gifts You Give With Pride, Let Jay's Jewellers Be Your Guide."

Jay's Jewellers

652 2nd Avenue, Downtown Fernie, 250.423.7814

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THE FREE PRESS Thursday, December 20, 2012

Former Ghostrider embraces new role as father

Brendan Burge with new baby daughter Bodene Raleigh Rogal Burge. Submitted Photo ByMatt Laurin Sports Contributor

rendan Burge knew in his heart it was the right thing to do. As the due date for his first child grew nearer, the 20-year-old forward for the Fernie Ghostriders found it increasingly difficult to focus on playing hockey. With his girlfriend Becka expecting any day, Burge found his mind wandering from the ice in Fernie to his family in Invermere.

On December 2, everything changed. Shortly after 4 a.m. Bodene Raleigh Rogal Burge entered the world – and Brendan became a father. “She’s just the cutest thing I’ve seen in my whole life,” Burge said of his new daughter. “It’s just an amazing feeling.” And while Burge has embraced his new role as a dad, it came with another tough decision – to part ways with the Fernie Ghostriders, his hockey team for the

past three seasons. Burge will play the remainder of the season with the Columbia Valley Rockies, so he can be close to his family. “Playing in Fernie in the last couple of years has been one of the better times in my hockey career. I’ve been treated better there then anywhere else in my life,” Burge said. “Things came up in my life where family became a part of it, and I have a little baby girl now. The way I look at it is family is everything, and hockey is a game.” While the decision was not an easy one, in the end it was the right thing to do. “The closer we got to her due date, the more my gut just couldn’t leave. I wanted to go back, but I didn’t,” Burge said, sounding wise beyond his years. “I felt like I had to make a decision based on my gut, and in the end it was right.” Heading into the season, Burge had every

intention of finishing his junior career with the Riders. His billets in Fernie were aware of his situation, and more than willing to help. “I know people have done it, and I probably could have done it in Fernie, but I feel like I would have wanted to be at home with them too much. I really appreciate everyone who offered to help try to make it work.” Making the decision easier for Burge, Ghostriders head coach Barry Wolff fully supported the move. And while it wasn’t easy for Wolff to part ways with his best player, it reflects on the coach’s emphasis on a family-first mentality. “It was really the best way anyone could have handled it,” Burge said. “He was very upfront and very forward, and I understand that I was a big part of the team in Fernie, but Barry was very understanding of the decision I made.” Burge said it was

an honour to play for Wolff, who even made a point to send a gift to the new family. Teammates were also supportive of Burge’s decision. “When I broke the news to them, they were so understanding. Obviously they didn’t want to see me go, which made it that much tougher, but they were all very supportive,” Burge said. “It was a really tough thing to do, but I couldn’t ask for better guys to have my back. I’ve made some of my best friends playing hockey in Fernie.” Josh McKissock, the Ghostriders captain, echoed Burge’s sentiments. “At the end of the day, hockey is just a game and family comes first,” McKissock said. “We’re all very supportive of his decision.” McKissock acknowledged that Burge’s departure leaves a hole on the roster, but said it opens the door for other players to

increase their role. “It’s something we’re definitely feeling. But guys are starting to step up, and we’ve got a lot of character on this team.” The Ghostriders had the opportunity to see their old friend, when they played the Rockies in Invermere on Tuesday. Burge admits it will

Safety is at our core Teck’s vision is everyone going home safe and healthy every day – whether you are driving home from work or making an extra special trip this Christmas. We wish you a safe and happy holiday season and a prosperous year in 2013.

be strange to play against his former teammates. But at the end of the day, he knows he made the right decision. “Looking back on it, I don’t have any regrets. I get to see my baby girl every day, be with my girlfriend, and most of all, we get to be a family the right way.”

www.thefreepress.ca

THE FREE PRESS Thursday, December 20, 2012

That’s a Wrap Paper based wrapping paper can be recycled in any of the yellow bins in the East Kootenay and in the curbside recycling programs in Fernie and Invermere. From cards and envelopes to wrapping and tissue paper, please recycle as much as possible.

Recyclable: ü Paper based gift wrap ü Cards ü Envelopes ü Gift tags ü Tissue paper ü Cardboard boxes ü Brown shipping/packaging paper

Not Recyclable û Foil based wrapping paper û Envelopes or gift tags with foil lining û Bows and Ribbons

If everyone in Canada wrapped just three gifts in reused paper or gift bags, it would save enough paper to cover 45,000 hockey rinks.

Recycling Tips To find the holiday hours at RDEK transfer stations and landfills, visit

www.rdek.bc.ca

Recycling 101 The yellow bins in the RDEK and curbside programs in Fernie and Invermere take the following: ü Mixed paper – including Christmas cards and envelopes (as long as they’re not foil) ü Aluminum and tin cans – please rinse well! No aluminum foil, pie plates,etc. Only cans are accepted ü Cardboard – all types; boxes must be flattened. Cardboard covered with wax, foil or soiled with grease or food waste cannot be recycled ü Plastics – Grocery bags (garbage must be removed from grocery bags) and plastics #1 - #6 (except Styrofoam)

Plastics NOT accepted:

û Styrofoam (even though it's marked as a #6) û Unmarked plastics – if it doesn’t have a number on it, it can’t go in the bin. Often the lids are made out of different plastics than the containers, so you have to check carefully û #7 plastics

What You Need to Know About Glass

No Styrofoam

Our yellow recycling bins are often on private property and it is so important that we keep them clean. Please put all recyclables in the bin. Over the holidays, the bins see a huge increase in volume. While our contactor will be working hard to empty the bins more frequently, sometimes they will be full. If you encounter a full bin, please look for another bin in the area or come back. Never leave recyclables on or around the bins. Thank you for helping us keep our recycling areas clean!

Cranbrook: • Cranbrook Photo • Staples • The Source (in Tamarack Centre) • Kootenay Communications Kimberley: • Kimberley City Hall

Styrofoam is NOT recyclable in the East Kootenay, even though it is a type of #6. If it can't be reused, it's garbage.

Foiled Again

Please Keep it Clean

On December 25th alone, over 30 million bags of garbage will be thrown out of Canadian households.

Both alkaline and rechargeable batteries are recyclable. Drop off locations include:

The following items can be dropped off FREE OF CHARGE for recycling: üComputers – desktop and laptops üMonitors üKeyboards and Computer üMice üPrinters üTelevisions üFax Machines üScanners üDVD and VHS players üStereos and MP3 docking stations üRadios üDiscman, Walkman, MP3 players üEarphones üMicrophones üSpeakers üCable, satellite and PVR boxes üVehicle audio and video systems

THE FREE PRESS Thursday, December 20, 2012 19

Batteries Included

Electronics recycling depots are located at the Cranbrook, Invermere and Fernie Bottle Depots. These depots are for small volumes only.

For details, visit electrorecycle.ca

These containers must be well rinsed with lids removed.

Metal lids cannot be recycled in the yellow bins. Please make sure you remove the lids before putting glass containers in the recycling bin. Metal lids can be recycled for free at Columbia Recycle in Marysville.

Electronics are often a hot holiday gift item. Old electronics that are still in good working condition can be taken to an RDEK Reuse Centre; however, if they’re no longer working, they may be able to be recycled.

Products are divided into categories including: kitchen countertop, time measurement, weight measurement, garment care, air treatment, floor care and personal care.

That means only container glass that holds food and beverages. Some examples include: ü Jam jars ü Pickle jars ü Cheez whiz jars ü Olive oil jars ü Iced tea or wine bottles

Flip Your Lid!

Electronics Recycling Expands

The Cranbrook and Fernie Depots (not Invermere) also accept more than 120 small electrical appliances, ranging in size from electric toothbrushes to countertop microwave ovens.

The glass recycling bins in the East Kootenay are for container glass ONLY.

The following are NOT accepted in the glass bins: û Dishes of any kind (clear drinking glasses, pyrex dishes, corel ware, pottery, plates, etc). No dishes! û Shower doors, windshields û Lightbulbs û Picture frame glass û Glass trinkets (like candlestick holders and tree decorations)

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Tin pie plates and foil roasting pans cannot be recycled. Consider non-disposable options or rinse & reuse them.

Fluorescent Light Recycling The LightRecycle program accepts compact fluorescent and tube fluorescent light bulbs free of charge. The recycling program is for residentially generated lights only. There are currently three LightRecycle Depots in the East Kootenay: Cranbrook Home Hardware, 1901 McPhee Road Skyway Distributors, 304 Slater Road NW Fernie Home Building Centre, 300 Manitou Road

Elk Valley: • City of Fernie • Fernie Aquatic Centre Columbia Valley: • Selkirk TV & Appliance, Invermere

Reuse Comes Before Recycle Over the holidays many people will receive gifts that will replace perfectly good older items. Instead of throwing good items away, please consider giving them away so they can be reused. There are Reuse Centres at the Cranbrook, Kimberley, Elkford, Fernie and Sparwood Transfer Stations and Columbia Valley Landfill. The Reuse Centres accept household items in good working condition. Everything in the Reuse Centres is available at no cost. Some examples of items that are accepted in the Reuse Centres include: ü Chairs ü Pictures ü Televisions ü Small dishes ü Light fixtures ü Tools Items that cannot be accepted include large appliances, tires, mattresses, automotive parts, scrap metal, wood and clothing.

If each person reused two feet of ribbon this Christmas it would save 61,000 kms of ribbon.

For more infor mation contact the RDEK at 250-489-2791 or 1-888-478-7335

www.thefreepress.ca

THE FREE PRESS Thursday, December 20, 2012

Recyclable: ü Paper based gift wrap ü Cards ü Envelopes ü Gift tags ü Tissue paper ü Cardboard boxes ü Brown shipping/packaging paper

Not Recyclable û Foil based wrapping paper û Envelopes or gift tags with foil lining û Bows and Ribbons

If everyone in Canada wrapped just three gifts in reused paper or gift bags, it would save enough paper to cover 45,000 hockey rinks.

Recycling Tips To find the holiday hours at RDEK transfer stations and landfills, visit

www.rdek.bc.ca

Plastics NOT accepted:

What You Need to Know About Glass

No Styrofoam

Cranbrook: • Cranbrook Photo • Staples • The Source (in Tamarack Centre) • Kootenay Communications Kimberley: • Kimberley City Hall

Styrofoam is NOT recyclable in the East Kootenay, even though it is a type of #6. If it can't be reused, it's garbage.

Foiled Again

Please Keep it Clean

On December 25th alone, over 30 million bags of garbage will be thrown out of Canadian households.

Both alkaline and rechargeable batteries are recyclable. Drop off locations include:

THE FREE PRESS Thursday, December 20, 2012 19

Batteries Included

Electronics recycling depots are located at the Cranbrook, Invermere and Fernie Bottle Depots. These depots are for small volumes only.

For details, visit electrorecycle.ca

These containers must be well rinsed with lids removed.

Products are divided into categories including: kitchen countertop, time measurement, weight measurement, garment care, air treatment, floor care and personal care.

That means only container glass that holds food and beverages. Some examples include: ü Jam jars ü Pickle jars ü Cheez whiz jars ü Olive oil jars ü Iced tea or wine bottles

Flip Your Lid!

Electronics Recycling Expands

The Cranbrook and Fernie Depots (not Invermere) also accept more than 120 small electrical appliances, ranging in size from electric toothbrushes to countertop microwave ovens.

The glass recycling bins in the East Kootenay are for container glass ONLY.

www.thefreepress.ca

Tin pie plates and foil roasting pans cannot be recycled. Consider non-disposable options or rinse & reuse them.

Elk Valley: • City of Fernie • Fernie Aquatic Centre Columbia Valley: • Selkirk TV & Appliance, Invermere

If each person reused two feet of ribbon this Christmas it would save 61,000 kms of ribbon.

For more infor mation contact the RDEK at 250-489-2791 or 1-888-478-7335

NOW AT YOUR BC CHEVROLET DEALERS. Chevrolet.ca 1-800-GM-DRIVE. Chevrolet is a brand of General Motors of Canada. */**Offers apply to the purchase of a 2013 Silverado EXT 2WD (1SA), 2013 Cruze LS (1SA), 2013 Equinox LS (1SA) equipped as described. Freight included ($1,500). License, insurance, registration, PPSA, administration fees and taxes not included. Dealers are free to set individual prices. Offer available to retail customers in Canada. See Dealer for details. Limited time offers which may not be combined with other offers, and are subject to change without notice. Offers apply to qualified retail customers in BC Chevrolet Dealer Marketing Association area only. Dealer order or trade may be required. GMCL, Ally Credit, TD Auto Financing Services or Scotiabank may modify, extend or terminate this offer in whole or in part at any time without notice. Conditions and limitations apply. See Chevrolet dealer for details. **Offer available to retail customers between December 17th, 2012 and December 30th, 2012. Applies to new 2012 Chevrolet Sonic and Cruze and 2013 GM vehicles excluding 2013 Chevrolet Camaro, Corvette, Volt, Spark, Orlando, Express, Traverse, and Trax, GMC Savana and Acadia, Buick Enclave and Encore, and Cadillac ATS and XTS at participating dealers in Canada. Employee price includes freight and PDI but excludes license, insurance, registration, fees associated with filing at movable property registry/PPSA fees, duties, marketing fees and taxes. Dealer may sell for less. Limited quantities of 2012 models available. Dealer order or trade may be required. Offer may not be combined with certain other consumer incentives. GMCL may modify, extend or terminate this offer, in whole or in part, at any time without notice. See dealer for details. †To qualify for GMCL’s Cash For Clunkers incentive, you must: (1) turn in a 2006 or older MY vehicle that is in running condition and has been registered and properly insured in your name for the last 3 months (2) turn in a 2006 or older MY vehicle that is in running condition and has been registered and properly insured under a small business name for the last 3 months. GMCL will provide eligible consumers with a manufacturer to consumer incentive (tax inclusive) to be used towards the purchase/finance/lease of a new eligible 2012 or 2013 MY Chevrolet Colorado, GMC Canyon, Chevrolet Silverado, GMC Sierra, or Chevrolet Avalanche delivered between October 2, 2012 and January 2, 2013. Incentive ranges from $1500 to $3,000, depending on model purchased. Incentive may not be combined with certain other offers. By participating in the Cash For Clunkers program you will not be eligible for any trade-in value for your vehicle. See your participating GM dealer for additional program conditions and details. GMCL may modify, extend or terminate program in whole or in part at any time without notice. ^Based on latest competitive data available. ~ OnStar services require vehicle electrical system (including battery) wireless service and GPS satellite signals to be available and operating for features to function properly. OnStar acts as a link to existing emergency service providers. Subscription Service Agreement required. Call 1-888-4ONSTAR (1-888-466-7827) or visit onstar.ca for OnStar’s Terms and Conditions, Privacy Policy and details and system limitations. Additional information can be found in the OnStar Owner’s Guide ^^Based on WardsAuto.com 2012 Upper Small segment, excluding Hybrid and Diesel powertrains. Standard 10 airbags, ABS, traction control, and StabiliTrak.

20 THE FREE PRESS Thursday, December 20, 2012

he Fernie Ghostriders helped out the Salvation Army on December 10. Members of the Junior B hockey team manned the Christmas Kettles outside Overwaitea, collecting donations that will go towards local families in need.

Fernie Free Press

UP TO

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Riders raise funds for Kettles Multiple reasons

By Nicole Liebermann Free Press Staff

to raise a glass

By Angela Treharne Free Press Staff

Josh McKissock, Chris Solecki, and Aaron Neufeld man the Salvation Army’s Christmas Kettles at Overwaitea. Submitted photo

3,000

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o mark Fernie Brewing Company’s upcoming 10th Anniversary, the brewers are releasing a new limited release and decadent brew. Big, strong and well-aged, Fernie Brewing Co.’s Black Mammoth Winter Ale is now available in Fernie throughout the festive period and into the New Year.

MSRP*

32,440

MSRP*

28,535

MSRP*

16,495

SCAN HERE TO FIND YOURS

Call Coal Valley Motor Products at 250-423-9288, or visit us at 16 Manitou Road, Fernie. [License #9819]

“Our most decadent brew yet – a rich, strong winter black ale. A healthy addition of chocolate malt, plus infusions of dark organic cocoa and curacao orange peel provide unique flavour. Extra aging on oak adds smoothness and complexity. Perfect for those special times. Endulge!” describes Brewmaster, Gord Demaniuk. January 2013 will mark 10 years since the first beer left the Manitou Road building.

TH NLY! O 0 3 IT’S BACK! FROM DEC 17

YOU PAY WHAT WE PAY

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Do your part for the environment by upgraDing your olD vehicle to a new pickup. Recycle your 2006 model year or older vehicle and receive up to $3,000 towards the cash purchase, financing or leasing of an eligible 2012 or 2013 Chevrolet Silverado (HD amount shown).

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Sports

THE FREE PRESS Thursday, December 20, 2012

Hwy. 3 (250)423-3211 Featuring Healthy Vegetarian Dishes

Riders slide into second FAST skier makes tracks The captain led the way offensively for the Riders, scoring a goal and adding three assists. He now has 24 points in 20 games fter nearly a month on top of the this season. Eddie Mountain Division, the “Any time you can contribute offensively Ghostriders slipped into second to help the team get the W it’s nice. The place this weekend after losing 4 – 0 in other guys around me played really well, Golden on Thursday. so I can’t take all the credit,” McKissock The Riders (18 – 8 – 1 – 2) quickly said. responded with a 6 – 5 overtime win The Riders almost let it slip away. Dylan at home over the Summerland Steam on Rota’s powerplay goal with four minutes Friday, but the Rockets now hold a two- remaining looked as though it would point lead heading into a crucial stretch of hold up as the game winner, until Steve divisional games. Semenoff scored for the Steam with only “There were definitely some lapses five seconds left to send the game into throughout the game, but I thought for overtime. the most part we played pretty well,” said Derek Georgopoulos played hero for Riders captain Josh McKissock, following the Ghostriders, scoring with just over a Friday’s win. “It’s definitely a big two minute left in double-overtime. points for us this time of year.” Head coach Barry Wolff was happy with his team’s resilience. “That was a good character win for us. They just kept battling and that will be really important for us down the road,” Wolff said. as of December 19, 2012 Only three points separate the top teams in the Eddie, although the DIVISION: Kootenay Conference: Eddie Mountain Riders have several games in hand on Team GP W L T OTL Pts both the Rockets and the Kimberley Fernie Ghostriders 30 19 8 1 2 41 Dynamiters. Golden Rockets 33 19 11 1 2 41 Kimberley Dynamiters 34 19 15 0 0 38 With four games against the rival Columbia Valley Rockies 35 12 20 0 3 27 Dynamiters before the New Year, Creston Valley Thunder Cats 32 11 17 0 4 26 including a home and home series DIVISION: Kootenay Conference: Neil Murdoch beginning this weekend in Fernie, the Team GP W L T OTL Pts Ghostriders will look to regain top Nelson Leafs 32 24 6 1 1 50 spot in the division. Castlegar Rebels 33 20 7 5 1 46 Before setting their sights on Beaver Valley Nitehawks 33 20 11 1 1 42 Kimberley, the Ghostriders head to Spokane Braves 32 12 18 1 1 26 Invermere on Tuesday to play the Grand Forks Border Bruins 35 5 28 0 2 12 Columbia Valley Rockies. DIVISION: Okanagan/Shuswap Conference: Doug Birks “This game is huge for us. Invermere Team GP W L T OTL Pts beat us in overtime last time we Sicamous Eagles 31 20 5 2 4 46 played them, so it’s a payback game North Okanagan Knights 33 20 10 1 2 43 for us,” Wolff said. Revelstoke Grizzlies 32 16 12 3 1 36 The Riders next home game goes Kamloops Storm 36 13 17 2 4 32 Chase Heat 34 7 23 3 1 18 Friday, when they host the Nitros in one of the most anticipated games of DIVISION: Okanagan/Shuswap Conference: Okanagan Team GP W L T OTL Pts the year. “We’re going to get to know them Princeton Posse 32 20 11 0 1 41 a lot here in the next few weeks. It’s Kelowna Chiefs 33 20 12 1 0 41 Osoyoos Coyotes 33 18 14 0 1 37 important we start by winning the Summerland Steam 33 15 16 0 2 32 one at home.” Penticton Lakers 32 8 22 0 2 18 As always, puck drops at 7:30 p.m. By Matt Laurin Sports Contributor

By Angela Treharne Free Press Staff

Fernie Alpine Ski Team skier has taken top Canadian honours at a downhill race in Colorado, representing the Women’s BC Ski

Team. Sarah Freeman of Pincher Creek, Alberta finished in fifth place at the Copper Mountain Nor-Am downhill earlier this month. "I definitely would have been ecstatic with a podium finish today, but I'm happy with fifth after not finishing the previous day,” she said. “I knew I had a good approach yesterday, so I went for the same thing today. I lost time when I had to make a bit of a saving maneuver near the bottom, which is not the fastest thing to do in downhill. It could have been a mental thing because it was in the same section where I missed the gate yesterday. I'm getting closer to where I know I can FAST athlete Sarah Freeman. Submitted photo be."

Standings

Free Press of the

Charley Field, Hallie MacLachlan, Sarah Freeman, Emma King and Sarah Elliot from the Women’s BC Ski Team. Submitted photo

Sarah Freeman FAST athlete and Women’s B.C. Ski Team member, Sarah Freeman of Pincher Creek, Alberta finished in fifth place at the Copper Mountain NorAm downhill earlier this month.

Upcoming Home Games Friday, December 21 @ 7:30 pm Fernie Memorial Arena

Sponsored by

Best Western

Fernie Mountain Lodge

1622 - 7th Avenue, Fernie, BC 250-423-5500

CALL US FOR ROOM SPECIALS

Game night sponsor:

This is also teddy bear toss night!

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THE FREE PRESS Thursday, December 20, 2012

A nation hungry for hockey

Bring Your Furry Pal in for a AY SPRUC D I EU OL P H

Offering Full Services Throughout December at Great Prices!

•Blueberry Facials •Deep Conditioning Treatments •Breed Specific Clips

791A 2nd Avenue 250-423-4332

Alayna's Place Enjoy the experience that's more than just a haircut!

From our families to yours - We wish you the happiest holiday season.

114 Centennial Square • 250. 425.0770

Christmas is such a wonderful time because it brings family and friends together in celebration. We hope all your family and friends are able to gather together to share this very special time of year. Thank you for your business and Happy Holidays from our home to yours.

The 2012 World Junior Hockey Championship tournament is keeping Canadian hockey fans happy during a holiday season without the NHL By Matt Laurin Sports Contributor

hile Gary Bettman and Donald Fehr remain determined to cement the NHL’s reputation as the biggest joke in professional sports, even they can’t cancel Christmas. As redundant updates from the NHL lockout fall further into oblivion, this year’s World Junior Hockey Championship has created a buzz amongst hockey purists across the country. “It’s the best time of year. This is what Christmas is to me.” Those were the sentiments of Ed Quinn, a hockey fan who came out to catch a glimpse of Team Canada’s national junior team, during last week’s selection camp in Calgary. The three-day camp featured the best young hockey players that our country has to offer. Thirty-six young men, ranging from 17 to 19 years old, competed for a chance to represent Canada when the annual tournament begins on Boxing Day, in Ufa, Russia. With the final roster now set, the emphasis now shifts to the arduous task of bringing home a gold medal, something Canada has

been unable to do since 2009. This year’s lockout should help. Thanks to the incompetence of the NHL, several players who would otherwise be playing for their professional teams will have the opportunity to play in this year’s tournament. Of the notable players taking part, there is no bigger name than Ryan Nugent Hopkins. The 2011 first overall pick of the Edmonton Oilers will captain Team Canada, and is one of many players

O’Brien, who recently lost his job, was getting players’ signatures for two Canada jerseys that he plans on giving to his sons for Christmas. Because of the tournament’s location, most of Canada’s preliminary games will be played during the middle of the night. For fans like O’Brien, that won’t stop them from taking in the action. “I’ll be staying up all night if I have to,” O’Brien said, adding that the kids will be allowed to stay up as

“We’ve got some of the best junior players that were in the NHL, now being able to play in this tournament. I mean, Nugent Hopkins. What can you even say?” Peter O’Brien Junior Hockey Fan

who would not be taking part in this tournament if there was an NHL season. All week in Calgary, eager fans lined up to meet the future superstars. “We’ve got some of the best junior players that were in the NHL, now being able to play in this tournament,” Peter O’Brien, a junior hockey fan, said after the final practice on Saturday. “I mean, Nugent Hopkins. What can you even say?”

well over the holidays. If there was one thing clear from the selection camp, it is that Canadians are hungry to watch international hockey. At Tuesday’s Red vs. White game in Calgary, it was standing room only. Outside the doors of the arena sat a growing pile of food, donated as admission to catch a glimpse of this year’s junior team. Here are five storylines to watch this year in Ufa, Russia: 1) T e a m Canada’s head coach Steve Spott has built this team around speed, which was evident when Tom Wilson was cut from the team on Thursday. Wilson, a first round pick by the Washington Capitals, is your prototypical

power forward, and many were surprised when he was cut. Can Canada keep up with the speed of the Russians and Swedes on the big ice?

2) Thanks to a recent rule change, Canada is set to bring three goaltenders to Russia. Youngster Jake Paterson will be the odd man out, while Jordan Binnington and Malcolm Subban will vie for time in net for Canada. Subban plays on international size ice for his junior team in Belleville, and has experience playing in Russia. Whether that will be enough to earn him the starting job is yet to be seen.

3) Two 17-yearold players, Nathan Mackinnon and Jonathan Drouin, beat out older talent at camp. How will Spott utilize the youngsters, and how will they fare on the world stage?

4) Spott may have opted for speed and finesse, but that’s not to say Canada can’t play the physical game. Boone Jenner, Anthony Camara and Brett Ritchie all have enough sandpaper in their games to make life tough on opponents. How much of a shutdown role will they play?

5) D u r i n g two previous lockouts, Team Canada has excelled at the World Junior Hockey Championships, going unbeaten and winning two gold medals. Will that trend continue in 2013?

Classes Work Space Paper Crafting Mini Albums Home Decor

441 Highway 3 • Fernie

PHONE: (250)423-5805 9839 ELK STREET

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Working towards a Fernie Francophone school By Nicole Liebermann Free Press Staff

newly formed association is bringing Fernie’s Francophones together. Association Francophone des Rocheuses du Sud (AFRoS), translates to Francophone Association of the Southern Rockies, and is working to promote French education and culture in the Elk Valley. “The reason to form the society was twofold, partly to help get more French education here, and also to have a hub for Francophones in the East Kootenays,” said Heather Kerr, with AFRoS. “We started this association here in Fernie because we wanted to build a Francophone community in this area, but our mandate theoretically extends to the wider East Kootenay region.” The non-profit association incorporated just last spring and is lobbying for a Francophone school in Fernie. Kerr explained that School District 93, B.C.’s Francophone school district, requires a group of 10 eligible students within a threeyear age span to start up a school. There have been several attempts in the past, and a group of parents did come close in 2008. “In September 2008 in Fernie they did have the 10 students, but one family

at the last minute decided on a change of plans and withdrew their registration, and so then the school district withdrew it’s funding,” said Kerr. “There were a lot of people who were really disappointed and that had done a lot of rallying. “So there was definitely a need recognized at that point to build a more cohesive Francophone community in the Elk Valley and South Country, and help get the word out.” Now with AFRoS getting roughly 45 families on board, they’ve started up communications with School District 93 once more. Kerr commented, “We’ve identified more than 10 eligible students for a K1-2 class starting in September 2014, so it’s looking really promising in terms of numbers.” A representative from the school district is coming to Fernie in January to meet with AFRoS and further discuss the possibility of a Francophone school. In the meantime, AFRoS is making sure members meet often with regular preschool story-time gatherings. Parents get together for a chat, while the kids have a chance to listen to stories and do crafts, all while speaking and learning French. “The little ones are able to hear other people, including people their

size, speak French,” remarked Kerr. “It’s also for them to improve their French language and vocabulary. I think for preschool aged children too, it’s all about social development and literacy development.” She went on to say, “For the parents who go it’s also a bit of community building so that we see each other regularly. For those of us who are wanting a Francophone school, you get to know the other parents who might actually be your child’s classmate’s parents.” Anyone interested in learning more information about AFRoS can visit their website at www. afros.ca, or email francofernie@ gmail.com.

Where Family and Fun Come Together

VENICE POOL TABLE

MANHATTAN POOL TABLE

BRISTOL POOL TABLE

LONDON POOL TABLE

NOTHING OVER

2699

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AN Ins FR YW ta EE HE llat RE io FR IN n BC E

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All photos by N. Liebermann

liday messag o h e A May the spirit of the season live in your hearts until the end of time. Wishing the happiest of holidays to all our friends and neighbours.

Christmas erry from

TJ’s Auto Body 1301 Railway Avenue Fernie, BC 250-423-3416

Merry Christmas! Our sincere thanks for your patronage. OpEN Mon-Sat: 8am- 9pm Sun: 8am-6pm

250-423-4222 1791 9th Avenue FERNIE, (Just off Hwy 3)

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THE FREE PRESS Thursday, December 20, 2012

HE De RE liv IN ery BC

CHECK OUT OUR WEBSITE FOR MORE DETAILS

• Solid Maple • 1 Inch Slate •Leather Pockets Models •6Available

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THE FREE PRESS Thursday, December 20, 2012

East Kootenay

www.thefreepress.ca

Raising money with baking By Jenna Jensen Contributor

Over 35,000 copies will be distributed across the East Kootenay including the Cranbrook, Fernie, Sparwood, Elkford , Invermere, Creston Valley and Golden

COMING SOON! Publishing: Thursday, January 24

he lovely ladies of Lilac Terrace filled the mall with hustle and bustle as they held their annual bake sale recently. With tables filled with fresh baked treats many attended to give in to their sweet tooth and get an early start on their holiday baking. Over $2,500 from the event was raised.

The Greenwood Mall was filled with holiday cheer as ladies from Lilac Terrace sold tables full of baked goods. Photo by J. Jensen

Ad Deadline: Wednesday, January 9

Say “I Do” to a great advertising opportunity plus when you purchase a full page ad you receive 1/2 page advertorial to promote your business. Deadline for editorial (approx. 300 words) and editorial photo is January 4, 2013.

CONTACT Andrea Horton - Advertising Consultant 250-423-4666 Email: advertising@thefreepress.ca

The spirit of Christmas is alive in Sparwood

Kettle Volunteers Needed week of December 17-22

Phone 250-423-4661 www.ferniesalvationarmy.ca for on-line kettles booking.

Kettle Goal $14,000

The District of Sparwood, businesses and individuals generously donated to Toys for Tots program ensuring a merry Christmas for many. Photo by J. Jensen

To donate online, go to: http://my.salvationarmy.ca/KylaMcKenzie

Text HOPE1011 to 45678 to donate to our kettle campaign All monies and donations raised in this campaign go to support local programs and assistance. 741 2nd Ave, Fernie (250) 423-4661 www.salvationarmy.ca

250-423-4620 • #672F 2nd Ave

New Arrivals

Scarves & gloves Purses Tribal Sportswear Cords Sweaters Cord Skirts Tribal Leopards & Roses Unique Tunic Tops Casual Dresses

Open Mon-Sat 9:30 – 5:30 Sunday 12 – 5

Winter coats 20% - 50% 0ff * Down * Poyfil * wool * Pirmalof

Dresses

20% - 50% off Girl Friday Robert Kitchen Michael Tyler NO HASSEL EXCHANGES FREE Gift Wrapping Friendly helpful staff Free smiles & chocolates

Thank you for shopping Odyssey!

By Jenna Jensen Contributor

s always, the community of Sparwood has generously outpoured their Christmas spirit by donating their time, toys and food for those in need. Many gifts were collected for Toys for Tots ensuring the 60 children in need will have a happy Christmas morning. Food for over 120 Christmas hampers was collected by local volunteers. This year, the Food Bank will be taking on the fresh fruit and veggie program, leaving Toys for Tots able to better support putting youth in need into community programs and activities throughout the year.

www.thefreepress.ca

THE FREE PRESS Thursday, December 20, 2012

Residents get wise about the changing climate

Thanks for shopping local!

Have a happy & safe holiday season From Sandra & staff at Bear Necessities

461A 2nd Avenue Downtown Fernie

250-423-5536

Happy Holidays! There’s joy in the air and much fun to share! Merry Christmas from the management & staff at

District of Sparwood staff, CBT representatives and expert speakers Dr. Mel Reasoner and Dr. Hans Schreier take a moment for a photo. Photo by J. Jensen By Jenna Jensen Contributor

parwood residents recently had the unique opportunity to learn and discuss all aspects of climate change and natural disasters, learning what they, and the District, could do about it. Residents were invited to ask questions, share ideas and provide input on how the residents and the District could work together to adapt to climate change. Approximately 40 residents and special guests, including District of Elkford councillors attended the event. Hosted by the District of Sparwood, the seminar titled Fires Floods Ice and Storms invited the public to listen and learn as highly renowned speakers discussed topics of climate change, how to mitigate risks and prepare for impacts. Following the experts’ presentations, in an open house format, guests had the opportunity to speak to District staff and learn about programs and projects already underway in Sparwood. The first speaker, Dr. Mel

Reasoner a climate scientist and geologist spoke of climate change, warming temperatures and the massive impact they are having on the globe.

“I have travelled the world, and what you are doing here is at the forefront.”

Dr. Hans Schreier UBC Professor

Dr. Hans Schreier, UBC Professor and Hydrologist, spoke next. He commended both the District of Sparwood and the District of Elkford for what they are doing in the area of climate change and mitigating impacts due to climate change. "I have travelled the world, and what you are doing here is at the forefront," he said. Following the presentations, District of Sparwood staff were on hand and eager to answer questions and share information on what safety plans and projects are happening within the District. Danny Dwyer, Director of Engineering and Approving O f f i c e r,

561 2A Downtown Fernie

and Mel Bohmer, Director of Operations, said, "We are using the most forward thinking we can, and continuously working towards adaptation and mitigation in various ways." They each spoke of the steps that are being taken to preserve and minimize water consumption through leak detection, water quality and supply monitoring, the water metering program, as well as the Water Smart Ambassador program and rebates for water saving such as the low flow toilet rebate. Duane Lawrence, Director of Community and Facility Services, and Jim Jones, Fire Chief, addressed those who had questions regarding wildfires and fuel loads. "We just recently mitigated four areas that were classified as high risk," said Lawrence. "What we are trying to do is reduce the chance of a wildfire coming into the community and creating structure fires, by creating buffer zones and getting rid of floor fuels," he said.

Merry Christmas to You & Yours! F rom: Management & Staff 300 Manitou Road Fernie (250) 423-4694

2.8125” x 3”

At this festive time of year, we would like to express the gratitude we feel for the privilege of serving our fine customers and friends.

www.mountainsidechurch.ca

Come Join Us Christmas Eve December 24th

5:30 to 6:30 pm or 7:00 to 8:00 1622 10th Ave, Fernie

Warmest thoughts and best wishes for a wonderful holiday and a happy New Year. Twitter

Facebook

RSS

Twitter

Facebook

RSS

Cranbrook office holiday hours: December 24, 25 and 26 - Closed December 27, 28 and 31 - 8:30 a.m.- 4:30 p.m. January 1 - Closed Regular office hours will resume January 2, 2013. www.cbt.org • 1.800.505.8998

Join us:

Thanks, Folks.

Shaw’S EntErpriSES Ltd. 250-425-2119

www.thefreepress.ca

THE FREE PRESS Thursday, December 20, 2012

Santa you are the best. Love Cass Dear Santa, I want video games and a DVD player and a laptop and a remote control boat and a million dollars. Love Ryan Dear Santa, How are you Santa? I want Skylander Pilot. Love Brandon

The Fernie Academy From Shaila Gulyas’ grade one class: Dear Santa, How are the reindeer? Please can I have walkie talkies for Christmas. Love Rylee Dear Santa, This is my Christmas list. I hope your reindeer are doing good. For my Christmas list I want an Easy Bake Oven and candee house. HoHo. Love Charlotte

Dear Santa, How many elves do you have? Santa how are you? I have been good. Santa I want you to come to my house. Santa I hope you will have fun. Love Jayda Dear Santa, How many elves to you have? I want Skylanders Giant and its sworm. I have been good. Love Jackson

Dear Santa, How are you? How are your elves? I have been a good girl. Love Georgia Dear Santa, I want a moe stuffee and a meme stuffee. Sparcalx high heel Toms. How do the reindeer fly? You are the best. I’ve been good. Santa I love you. Love Ruby

Dear Santa, I would like lego for Christmas. Do you like egg nog? Love Tomas Dear Santa, How are you? How many elves do you have? I have been a good girl. Love Emma Dear Santa, How are you? How many reindeer? I will give you cookies and milk. I have been good.

Dear Santa, How many elves do you have? How many reindeer do you have? I would like for Christmas an easy bake oven and a doctor kit with a cast in it and a phone and a necklace. I have been a good girl over the year. Love Fiona Dear Santa, I want cars. How many elves do you have? 100? How many reindeers do you have? Zorain Dear Santa, Do you have yetis

instead of elves? I want world of warcraft. How many reindeer do you have? I have been good. Nico Dear Santa, How are you? I wish I could have a remote control snow cat. HoHoHoHo. How much snow do you have in the North Pole? Love Luke Dear Santa, One of my favourite activities is sledding. When I go sledding first I get dressed for winter. Next I make a big snow mountain with my sisters. Mommy and Daddy join in. Then we all slide down the big hill together. Wheeeee! L o v e Benjamin Dear Santa, I wish I had an iPod. I wish I had a billion bucks. I wish I had a computer. I wish

I had a pet dog. Santa how are you? Love Tanner

Dear Santa, I have been good. How are you? How much snow do you get in the North Pole? I will give you cookies and milk and nine carrots for the reindeer. I want squnkies and new pj’s and Polly Pockets and some surprises. Love Holly

Dear Santa, How are you? How many elves? How many deers? Do you have a Christmas tree? Do you celebrate Christmas? I have been good. Love Libby

Dear Santa, For Christmas I would like car sets, angry birds, Mario Kart, coca cola, train, air hockey, walkie talkies, a watch, legos. I have been good. Love Arvo

Warmest wishes from your friends at Tim Hortons.

Wishing everyone in our community the happiest of holidays. Best wishes for the New Year from Pierre Pelletier & Kristine Hovind and the team members at your local Tim Hortons in Fernie.

www.thefreepress.ca

THE FREE PRESS Thursday, December 20, 2012

Grown-ups have fun with Santa too By Mary Giuliano Mayor of Fernie

n Tuesday, December 4, residents of the Tom Uphill Manor, family members and guests from New Horizons and Veneto were treated to a delicious Christmas tea buffet dinner with prizes, music and good company. Resident Ruth Hopkins played Santa as she had individuals choose names from a bucket for prizes under the tree while lively carols played in the background and seasonal decorations added to the festivities.

Tom Uphill Manor residents enjoy a Christmas buffet. Photos by Mary Giuliano.

Vogue donates Santa Pups sales to Women’s Centre By Nicole Liebermann Free Press Staff

he Vogue Theatre has made a sizeable donation to the Fernie Women’s Resource Centre based on Santa Pups ticket sales. The Vogue held two matinee showings of Santa Paws 2: The Santa Pups on November 24 and 25. Tickets were sold for $6.50, with a portion of the pro-

ceeds promised to the Women’s Resource Centre. The Disney movie was filmed in Fernie last fall and features several downtown locations, as well as a few locals appearing as extras. Anticipation to see the town on the big screen was high and the screenings were a success, with Fernie residents filling 400 seats over the weekend. Theatre owners Dennis and Roxana Djonlich were able

to donate $1,100 from the ticket sales to the centre. “That’s a substantial donation for us,” remarked Lauren Fox, outreach worker with the Fernie Women’s Resource Centre. “Sometimes I think people think they need to make a huge donation to make a difference, but something like this is so important for us.” At this point, Fox doesn’t know what the money will go towards,

but she said donations are generally used for extras the centre doesn’t receive funding for. “In the past there’s been different activities or different little things that we can do or see a need in the community for. When we’re not able to afford those directly through funding from the provincial and federal governments, then we use donations.” Fox added, “It’s never used for anything like wages, it’s always

for things above and beyond what we’re normally able to do.” “There’s lots of different ways we can get creative, and we always use the money towards things that are going to benefit the community and the clients we’re serving in ways we couldn’t otherwise.” Some of the possibilities include snacks, special activities, and grocery vouchers.

Welcome Home!

The staff at The Free Press would like to wish everyone happy holidays and all the best in 2013!

Early Holiday Deadlines The following deadlines will be in effect during the holiday season. WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 19 12:00 pm for the December 27th edition.

Sarah FortisBC, Dispatch Coordinator

A safe holiday is a happy holiday Make safety a priority this holiday season with these simple tips:

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 27 12:00 pm for the January 3rd edition.

• Never kick or hit your meter if ice builds up. Call us for assistance at 1-888-224-2710.

Holiday Hours:

The Free Press office will be closed December 25th, 26th and January 1st. Open December 24th, 9:00 am to Noon. Regular hours resume Wednesday, January 2nd.

• After a snowfall, brush snow away from your meters by hand and clear a path for the safety of our meter readers. • Around your fireplace, consider using a hearth safety gate to help protect small children from the heated glass. For more winter safety tips, visit fortisbc.com/safety.

Est. 1898

FortisBC uses the FortisBC Energy name and logo under license from Fortis Inc. (12-336.4 12/2012)

THE FREE PRESS Thursday, December 20, 2012

Fernie Skating Club will be hosting their KidCanskate and Canskate registration on December 18th and 20th, 2012 for the upcoming session which will start on January 8th, 2013. ** Show off day is December 20th for these skaters so come out and watch some fantastic skating! We are in need of volunteers for our upcoming East Kootenay Competition in January and we will have sign up sheets at registration. For more information, please contact Marni Wilson at 250 423 4614 or email mlwil@live.ca.

Happy Holidays from the Fernie Skating Club

Happy Holidays

During this holiday season and every day of the year, we wish you all the best. Roman Rybar, CFp 596 2nd Avenue Fernie, BC

Member- Canadian Investor Protection Fund

250-423-3122

www.edwardjones.com

o ! H H ! o o ! H Merry Christmas Ski Sale

Volkl Kendo/Kenja w/binding Reg. $950 SALE. $750

Dynastar Legend Eden w/binding Reg. $749 SALE. $549 Buy a Smith Helmet and get a goggle 50% off! Saturday ONLY!

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RCMP REPORT

- Crime in the Elk Valley

Saturday, November 24 • In Fernie at 10:44 a.m. a theft of a camera was reported. • In Sparwood at 11:15 a.m. there was a hit and run. A licence plate was obtained and police are following up. • In Sparwood at 1:59 p.m. harassing phone calls were reported. • In Sparwood at 3:15 p.m. a cashbox was stolen from a business. • In Sparwood at 10:07 p.m. police dispatched an injured deer. • In Fernie at 10:18 p.m. an unwanted individual was refusing to leave a business. Members attended and the individual had already left. Sunday, November 25 • In Roosville at 1:03 a.m. the border agents notified police of a possible impaired driver. • In Fernie at 2:59 a.m. there was a false business alarm. • In Sparwood at 9:20 a.m. there was a disturbance at a business between the owner and a customer. Police attended to negotiate an agreement. • In Fernie at 1:25 p.m. an individual was driving a snowmobile on a pedestrian path. The snowmobile driver was

ELK VALLEY Libraries

located and issued a warning. • In Fernie at 4:50 p.m. police checked on an individual who was breaching court ordered conditions. • In Elkford at 6:27 p.m. there was a single vehicle accident when an erratic driver forced a motorist off the road. The erratic driver was not located. Monday, November 26 • In Fernie at 9:22 a.m. there was a false business alarm. • In Fernie at 9:21 a.m. an abandoned vehicle was reported. • In Hosmer at 11:39 a.m. a suspicious vehicle was reported. Police attended and the vehicle was not located. • In Fernie at 4:24 p.m. police assisted an individual in dealing with family members. • In Elkford at 8:05 p.m. there was an abandoned 911 call. Tuesday, November 27 • In Sparwood at 1:09 a.m. a wellbeing check was made after a complainant heard noises in their home. All was fine and there was nothing suspicious in or around the home.

Wednesday, November 28 • In Fernie at 11:51 a.m. a truck was reported for running a red light. A partial plate was given, and the vehicle was not located. • In Sparwood at 1:48 p.m. police assisted the Ministry of Children and Families with advice. • In Sparwood at 4:16 p.m. an aggressive driver was reported. The investigation is ongoing. • In Sparwood at 4:22 p.m. another call was received on the aggressive driver. The investigation is ongoing. • In Elko at 10:36 p.m. there was a noise complaint. Upon police arrival, there was no more noise. Thursday, November 29

FERNIE PUBLIC LIBRARY

ELKFORD PUBLIC LIBRARY

SPARWOOD PUBLIC LIBRARY

592 - 3rd Ave. 250-423-4458

816 Michel Rd 250-865-2912

110 Pine Ave. 250-425-2299

Mon. Closed Tues.-Wed. 11am-6pm Thurs. 11am-8pm Fri. 11am-6pm Sat. 1-5pm Sun. Closed

Mon. Closed Tues.-Wed. 10am-5pm Thurs.-Fri. 11am-6pm Sat. 12-5pm Sun. Closed

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e art! v e e H i r l u o e Y l B Al with

And the magic of the season will be yours.

The

Merriest

of Christmases

@ Snow Creek Lodge on the Ski Hill 250-423-9252

• In Elko at 3:37 a.m. a sheep was reported to have been hit on the road. • In Fernie at 7:19 a.m. a parking complaint was made. • In Fernie at 12:57 p.m. an erratic driver was reported. Patrols were made and the vehicle was not located. • In Fernie at 10:37 p.m. a vehicle hit a deer on the highway. No injuries were reported.

and the

672 2 Ave Fernie 250-423-6615

Happiest of New Years to you and yours.

• In Fernie at 12:22 a.m. police members found an individual urinating on the sidewalk. The individual was issued a ticket. • In Elkford at 12:33 a.m. there was a false business alarm. • In Elkford at 2:10 p.m. police were requested to keep the peace in regards to a civil matter.

Friday, November 30 • In Fernie at 3:24 a.m. two calls were made reporting loud music south of Fernie. It was coming from the Mogul Smoker event but police could not locate it. The investigation is ongoing. • In Fernie at 8:39 a.m. a missing person was reported. The person was located at the Mogul Smoker event sleeping. • In Fernie at 12:36 p.m. there was a two vehicle accident. One vehicle was partially blocking traffic. • In Fernie at 1:39 p.m. a suspicious person was reported making strange comments. • In Elko at 5:17 p.m. a rear licence plate was reported missing. • In Sparwood at 6:57 p.m. a possible fraud was reported through Kijiji. The individual had lost a substantial amount of money through the incident. The investigation is ongoing. • In Fernie at 8:02 p.m. police attended to a wellbeing check. All was fine. • In Fernie at 8:13 p.m. a mischief complaint was made when youths were seen on the roof of the seniors’ centre. The investigation is ongoing.

Saturday, December 1 • In Fernie at 12:30 a.m. an individual was arrested for being drunk in public. He was held in a cell until sober and issued a ticket. • In Sparwood at 1:05 a.m. an abandoned vehicle was reported after the vehicle had been involved in an accident. Police attended and no one was located in the area, but the vehicle was removed the following day.

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THE FREE PRESS Thursday, December 20, 2012

The Free Press Thursday, December 20, 2012

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2008 JEEP SAHARA UNLIMITED 4X4

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In Loving Memory Raymond Augustus McIntyre December 23, 2009 Fernie, B.C.

In Loving Memory PHONE: 250.423.4666 OR: 1.866.337.6437

MEISTER: Ninety-six year old Lincoln (Linc) Alexander Meister passed away at the Rocky Mountain Village on Friday, December 7, 2012. He was born in Laidlaw, BC on December 23, 1915. Linc is survived by 4 sons: Daniel (Karen), Stephen, Jonathan, and David (Marina), his daughter Marielle (Robert) Maundrell and 4 grandchildren: Lincoln, Alice, Malcolm and Devon. He was predeceased by his son Joel in 1988, his brother Elmer in 1998, and his wife Marceline in 2009. No Funeral Services by request. Messages of condolence may be made to the family at www. cherishedmemoriesfs.com Arrangements entrusted to Cherished Memories Funeral Services Ltd.

Tyson Ryan Alan Stiles

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July 7th 1980 December 27th 2001 Memories of you are like threads of gold. They never tarnish nor with time, do they grow old. Always loved and missed

Mom, Dad & Clinton

What would I give to clasp his hand, His happy face to see, To hear his voice and see his smile, That meant so much to me. Remembered by Brother Pat, Irene, & Michelle

Place of Worship

Mark

Place of Worship

741 2nd Ave., Fernie

WELCOMES YOU Sunday Meeting

Morning Services

10:30 am

Corps 2fÀcer: Lt. .yla Mc.en]ie

Fernie 2fÀce 250-423-4661 Fx 250-423-4668

KNOX UNITED CHURCH

201 2nd Avenue, Fernie Sunday Service 10:00 am Sunday School 10:00 am Nursery Available UCW Women’s Group 1st Tues each month 7:00 pm Clergy: Jane Clarke D.L.M. 250-423-6010 www.elkvalleyunited.com YOU’RE WELCOME AT .NO;

(formerly Fernie Baptist Church)

1622 10th Avenue, Fernie 250-423-4112 www.mountainsidechurch.ca Night Church will be held at Mugshots @ 7:00pm. Sunday Service, 10:00am. Contact Pastor Shawn Barden shawnbarden@gmail.com

cell 250-417-5016

10:30 am

Everyone Welcome

For more information call: 250-423-3516

Everyone Welcome

1361 8th Avenue, Fernie EVERYONE WELCOME

Sunday Worship & Children’s Ministry ...10:30 am Wed; Fellowship & Bible Study...7 pm Friday Youth Group...7 pm Pastor Dennis Williamson 2IÀce 250-423-4114 Res. 250-423-4102

Elk Valley Church Services

HOLY FAMILY PARISH 521 4th Avenue, Fernie

3arish OIÀce 250-423-6127

Mass: Tues. & Wed. 9:00 am Saturday 5:00 pm Sunday 9:00 am Confessions: Before 5:00 pm Mass on Saturday or by appointment Father Bart Van Roijen

CHRIST CHURCH ANGLICAN 591 4th Avenue, Fernie 250-423-6517

Christ Church Anglican Fernie

Sunday Service

8:30 am BCP

Sunday Service & School 9:30 am BAS Wednesday Service

10:00 am

The Rev Trevor Freeman, Parish Priest

like you turn to the Classifieds to find the items they need at prices they can afford.

in the Classifieds.

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he family of Wendy Anderson would like to thank everyone who sent cards, flowers, sympathies, condolences and food during a very difficult time.

Obituaries

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Services: Sunday 10:30 am Wednesday Bible Study: 6:47 pm

GOOD NEWS CONGREGATIONAL CHURCH Sunday Worship

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ST. MICHAEL’S PARISH YOU ARE INVITED! Mass Times: Saturdays: St. Michael’s ~ 7:00 pm Sundays: St. Michael’s ~ 11:00 am St. Bernard’s Mission, Elkford ~ 4:00 pm Thursdays: St. Michael’s ~ 6:30 pm Fridays: Lilac Terrrace ~ 11:00 am Confessions: Following each mass, or by appointment. Pastor: Father Bart Van Roijen 250-425-6444

SPARWOOD CHRISTIAN CENTRE

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Obituaries

LEONARD EDWIN KOSIEC November 7, 1943 – December 8, 2012 Leonard was born to Louis Julian and Mary Kosiec of Fernie. Leonard graduated from Fernie High School in 1961. He earned a Bachelor of Education (Elementary) from the University of Victoria in 1968. He earned a Master of Education in Teaching and a Master of Education in Special Education from Gonzaga University in Spokane, Washington, in 1981. He continued to pursue his education and earned a Doctor of Philosophy degree in Leadership in 1988. He began his teaching career in Michel-Natal Elementary School in 1964. He taught in Invermere, B. C. from 1965-1967. He came to Fernie in 1968 and retired in 2001. After his retirement; however, he continued to be active in education until 2011. During his teaching career, he was well respected in the Fernie District Teachers’ Association and the British Columbia Teachers’ Association. He served as a union representative on behalf of teachers and as a member of the bargaining team for many years. His compassion for his fellow teachers and experience serving as a union representative and bargaining team member led him to study in depth the needs of workers and their conditions in the workplace. He is recognized for his work concerning a Holistic Stress/Burnout Treatment for Workers in Fernie, B. C. Leonard was also very community and civic minded. He was a member of the New Democratic Party and held several offices for the Kootenay East Constituency. He was a member of The Royal Canadian Legion Branch 36 and devoted much service to the Legion portion of the Cemetery. He belonged to the Elks. He was active in the Canadian Cancer Society. He was a founding member of the Elk Valley & South Country Health Care Coalition, the Fernie Nordic Society, Fernie Arts Theatre Ensemble Society, Tenth Avenue Annex Park Committee, and the Fernie Heritage Cemetery Restoration Society. Leonard was a person of strong faith and guided in all walks of his life by Christian principles. He served as both junior and senior warden of Christ Church/Anglican in Fernie. Leonard loved his family and family life. He is survived by his wife, Barbara McFarlin-Kosiec and his son, James McFarlin-Kosiec who remember him for his love, humor, and generosity. In memory of Leonard, donations may be made to the Fernie Heritage Restoration Cemetery Society, P.O. Box 1275, Fernie, BC V0B 1M0. Messages of condolence may be made to the family at www.cherishedmemoriesfs.com Arrangements entrusted to Cherished Memories Funeral Services Ltd.

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HELP WANTED H&R Block is currently looking for an Office Administrator H&R Block is the country's leading tax service company. We endeavour to help our clients build a better financial future any way that we can. We provide fast and accurate tax preparation services. Our experts are committed to delivering assistance and solutions that are second to none. H&R Block is currently looking for an Office Administrator to provide skilled and efficient administration support to our tax office in Fernie BC. Duties include greeting clients, answering telephones, completing reports, processing payments, handling client concerns, completing and submitting Income Tax Returns and other duties as assigned. The successful candidate will have: t At least 3 years of office administration and customer service experience t Ability to operate a computer and applicable software packages t Excellent interpersonal, communication and multi-tasking skills t Must be willing to work flexible hours t Must be willing to complete the â&#x20AC;&#x153;On-the-jobâ&#x20AC;? Income Tax return training Do you have what it takes to be the â&#x20AC;&#x153;New Kid on the Block?â&#x20AC;? If so, we invite you to fax your resume to 250-489-1598

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An Alberta Construction Company is hiring Dozer and Excavator Operators. Preference will be given to operators that are experienced in oilfield road and lease construction. Lodging and meals provided. The work is in the vicinity of Edson, Alberta. Alcohol & Drug testing required. Call Contour Construction at 780-723-5051.

HI my name is Vandy, $1000 reward for anyone who can author a life story about the ups and downs of my intriguing life...Creativity and imagination is an asset, short and sweet on the poetic spectrum preferable, whilst keeping within the guidelines of fact overriding fiction, embellishment an option but not most likely not necessary as my life is interesting enough to be authored and published within local newspapers without exaggeration as a necessity. You can reach me @ 778677-5446 or 885-8002 or e-mail vandybuck@hotmail.com

HIRING LOCAL DRIVERS to transport railway crews. Vehicle & training is provided. Class 4 driverâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s license is required, assistance will be provided for those who require upgrade. Flexible schedule for a 24/7 operation. F/T & P/T opportunities WINTER WAGES $19.50/HR Contact Wolf Bigge: wolfgang.bigge@hallconcrewtransport.com

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A- STEEL SHIPPING STORAGE CONTAINERS / Bridges / Equipment Wheel loaders JD 644E & 544A / 63â&#x20AC;&#x2122; & 90â&#x20AC;&#x2122; Stiff boom 5th wheel crane trucks/Excavators EX200-5 & 892D-LC / Small forklifts / F350 C/C â&#x20AC;&#x153;Cabsâ&#x20AC;?20â&#x20AC;&#x2122;40â&#x20AC;&#x2122;45â&#x20AC;&#x2122;53â&#x20AC;&#x2122; New/ Used/ Damaged /Containers Semi Trailers for Hiway & StorageCall 24 Hrs 1-866-528-7108 Delivery BC and AB www.rtccontainer.com A- STEEL SHIPPING STORAGE CONTAINERS / Bridges / Equipment Wheel loaders JD 644E & 544A / 63â&#x20AC;&#x2122; & 90â&#x20AC;&#x2122; Stiff boom 5th wheel crane trucks/Excavators EX200-5 & 892D-LC / Small forklifts / F350 C/C â&#x20AC;&#x153;Cabsâ&#x20AC;?20â&#x20AC;&#x2122;40â&#x20AC;&#x2122;45â&#x20AC;&#x2122;53â&#x20AC;&#x2122; New/ Used/ Damaged /Containers Semi Trailers for Hiway & StorageCall 24 Hrs 1-866-528-7108 Delivery BC and AB www.rtccontainer.com

Misc. for Sale

2006 ESCAPE LTD 4WD Hal at Fernie Ford 250-423-4311 *Plus $399 doc + HST DLR 30507 800-423-4311

2012 DODGE CALIBER SXT Low kms, *MINT* $

17,641*

STK# UC 0189

Don at Fernie Ford 250-423-4311 *Plus $399 doc + HST DLR 30507 800-423-4311

Estate Sales

13,541* STK# UT 0535

2012 FORD FUSION SE Low kms

17,851* STK# UC 0188

Hal at Fernie Ford 250-423-4311 *Plus $399 doc + HST DLR 30507 800-423-4311

Custom blueprints.Visit: wwldesigns.ca Save! Save! Save!

Farm Services

2006 FORD F-150 FX4 4X4 Super cab

14,477* STK# UT 0498

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PINEWAY COURT

ALPINE COURT

Apartment Units

Just in time for winter! Fully Loaded, Power Group $

14,167*

STK# UT0487

Don at Fernie Ford 250-423-4311 *Plus $399 doc + HST DLR 30507 800-423-4311

Food Products BUTCHER SHOP

BC INSPECTED GRADED AA OR BETTER LOCALLY GROWN NATURAL BEEF Hormone Free Grass Fed/Grain Finished $100 Packages Available Quarters/Halves $2.55/lb Hanging Weight Extra Lean Hamburger $4.00/lb TARZWELL FARMS 250-428-4316 Creston

Don at Fernie Ford 250-423-4311 *Plus $399 doc + HST DLR 30507 800-423-4311

GREAT GIFT IDEA! ChillSpot is The COOLEST Dog Bed-A new and innovative, thermodynamically cooled dog bed, that enhances the cool tile surfaces our pets rely on during the warm weather months. Use promo code COOLGIFT For 10 % off! www.chillspot.biz HOT TUB (SPA) COVERS. Best price. Best quality. All shapes & colours available. 1-866-652-6837 www.thecoverguy.com/newspaper? STEEL BUILDINGS /metal buildings 60% off! 20x28, 30x40, 40x62, 45x90, 50x120, 60x150, 80x100 sell for balance owed! Call 1-800-457-2206 or online: www.crownsteelbuildings.ca

Real Estate Other Areas 20 ACRES FREE! Buy 40-Get 60 acres. $0-Down, $168/mo. Money Back Guarantee. NO CREDIT CHECKS. Beautiful Views. Roads/Surveyed. Neaer El Paso, Texas. Call 1800-843-7537. www.sunsetranches.com

Rentals Apt/Condo for Rent Well kept 2 bedroom Condo for rent in Sparwood Heights Includes fridge, stove, washer/dryer, storage area, use of exercise room & sauna. No Smoking, No Pets. Available Dec. 15th or Jan. 1st $875 unfurnished or $925 furnished Plus utilities. Heat included. Call 250-423-3598 2 bdrm condo Sparwood Heights Ponderosa Manor. Furnished. Call 250-423-1687.

Rentals Apt/Condo for Rent

Modular Homes Newer Mobile Homes in Sparwood. F, S, W & Dryer. 2 to 3 bdr. 250-425-4424 or 250-425-4646

FURNISHED & UNFURNISHED rentals available immediately in Sparwood or Elkford. Contact Tammie Davy at 250-425-2968 or Lindsay at 250-425-1180. On-line application available at: elkvalleylistings.ca.

r )PU XBUFS JODMVEFE r :PVS OFX IPNF

1 Bdrm - $775-month

1 bedroom:$710-month

2 & 3 Bdrm- $850 (& up)-month

2 bedroom:$800-month

Includes heat, lights, & hot water

250-425-9912

250-865-2722

SPARWOOD, B.C.

Live in scenic &

+Ă&#x2022;Â&#x2C6;iĂ&#x152;Ă&#x160;UĂ&#x160; Â&#x153;Â&#x201C;vÂ&#x153;Ă&#x20AC;Ă&#x152;>LÂ?iĂ&#x160;UĂ&#x160; vvÂ&#x153;Ă&#x20AC;`>LÂ?i

peaceful Elkford

SPARWOOD 2 bdrm, close to school & Greenwood Mall, recently upgraded, very clean & quiet, common laundry, extra storage, covered carport. N/S & N/P. References reqâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;d. Available immediately. Rental options considered. Call 250425-6642 or 250-425-3761.

GOLDEN OAK GARDENS

ALDERWOOD PLACE

Sparwood, BC Pineway Court Apartment units, close to downtown, affordable, hot water included, your new home. 1 bdrm $710/mth, 2 bdrm $800/mth 1-250-425-9912

1 bedroom - $710/month 2 bedroom - $800/month Hot Water Included

1 Bdrm - $775-month 2 & 3 Bdrm - $850 (& up)-month

Sparwood, B. C. Quiet + Comfortable + Affordable Golden Oak Gardens 1bdrm - $710/mth, 2 bdrm $800/mth, hot water included. Walking distance to Mall. 1- 250 - 865-2722

250-865-2722

Comfortable apartment units

Includes: covered parking, sauna, heat, lights & hot water

1-250-865-7676

One bedroom unfurnished apartment for rent above the ReMax office on 7th Ave. $750/month incl. heat & power. Long term tenants only & must provide references. Call Gloria at 250-423-4444.

Scenic Downtown Elkford Alpine Court Spacious New apartments 1 Bdrm $775/mth. 2 & 3 bdrm - $850 (& up)month. Includes heat, lights & hot water 250-865-2722

Misc. for Sale

Rentals

Furnished 2 Bdrm condo in Elkford. 2 full bths, nice view and balcony, Covered parking, 3 appliances, Quiet building, for only responsible people, No pets, Available immediately. $950 per month + DD includes all utilities. 403-938-6779

Spacious NEW apartments

r "GGPSEBCMF

Bartering

2007 RANGER SPORT 4X4

Scenic Downtown Elkford

Walking Distance to Mall

Merchandise for Sale

Contractors

Sparwood, B.C.

r $MPTF UP EPXOUPXO

Super crew, Nav + DVD $

Homes for Rent

Fernie Annex, 2 bdrm, 1 bath, $1000 + DD. N/S, pets possible, long term lease preferable. Call 406-871-7333.

HALF house for rent. Opposite Esquimalt High on 828 Colvile Rd. 3 Bedrooms, large yard for pets and kids. 250-885-8002 or 250-885- 8090

Live in scenic & peaceful Elkford - Alderwood Place Comfortable apartment units 1 bdrm - $775/mth, 2 & 3 bdrm $850 (& up) - month. Includes: covered parking, sauna, heat, lights & hot water 1-250-8657676

SPARWOOD Ponderosa Manor 2 bdrm condo $900, 2 bdrm furnished $1200. Rick 250-425-5432

Mobile Homes & Pads SPARWOOD MOBILE for rent airtight stove 250-423-1520

Recreation

2008 CHEV TAHOE LT Fully Loaded, Looks Amazing $

17,711*

STK# UT 0528

Don at Fernie Ford 250-423-4311 *Plus $399 doc + HST DLR 30507 800-423-4311

Storage

SELF STORAGE: Personal & commercial. Call Finniganâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Storage. 250-423-3308 or 250-423-4207.

STORAGE PLUS: Bays heated or cold & service bays with air, minor repairs. 250-4237492.

There is a better way.

Fernie Exchange New & Used & Pawnbrokers 1501-9th Ave. 250-423-6625 t 8F HJWF MPBOT PO QBXOBCMF JUFNT XL UP XLT t

China cabinet (large) buffet hutch $595. 6-drawer dresser $80. Armour hi-boy $150, 3-5 drawer hi-boys pine $95-$150. 3 antique dressers with mirrors $350-$950. Fridges $150-$450. End tables $29-$49. Night stands $45. Nice Navajo love seat $150. Round table oak replica with claw feet 4 press back chairs $379. Stack fiberglass chairs (yellow) $8 ea. 2 air rifles $249, $179. Good selection gold jewelry and diamonds - various prices. Good selection of collectors knives, swords, bayonets. Good selection antiques, collectibles, guitars, fiddles, bass guitar, banjos, mandolins, trumpets, trombones, amplifiers, musical accessories, small buffet hutch pine $159, 9 drawer pine dresser hutch mirror (blond) $195. DVDs, video games, selection of mens skates, hockey gear, helmets. Various power & hand tools, utility trailer (newer) ramp $595. 12 tires, 3 sets end table lamps $35 - $49 ea. Older piano tuned Canadian $595. Washer, dryer $399 set. Pine armour (entertainment center) $149, small bar fridge $65, filing cabinets 4 drawer legal & letter $49-$79, good selection of frames, pictures, oil & prints, 2-110 volt dryers $149 ea. Danby spin washer (newer) $299, Danby auto washer apartment size $299, stack bunk bed set (frame only) maple no posture boards $150, exercise bike (new-still in box) $199.

Apt/Condo for Rent

Apartments for Rent 1 & 2 Bedroom Units Furnished & Unfurnished From

695 per month

1491-5th Ave, Fernie Located beside the hospital and behind the Best Western

For more information call

250-423-1358

www.evergreenpeaks.com

Got something you really want to sell? Put it in front of the faces of thousands of readers everyday in the Classifieds. Call today to place your ad! Est. 1898

www.thefreepress.ca

250-423-4666

www.thefreepress.ca

THE FREE PRESS Thursday, December 20, 2012

A32 www.thefreepress.ca

Thursday, December 20, 2012 The Free Press

Transportation

Auto Accessories/Parts

Aircraft

Auto Financing

Commercial Vehicles

Sport Utility Vehicle

Trucks & Vans

2012 KIA SORENTO AWD

1998 DODGE Ram, reg. cab, shortbox, 4 x 4, 318, 5-speed, 6â&#x20AC;? lift, 35â&#x20AC;? tires, blue. $4000./obo. 250-421-7584.

21,743*

STK# UC 0175

23,257*

STK# UT 0524

Boats Hal at Fernie Ford 250-423-4311 *Plus $399 doc + HST DLR 30507 800-423-4311

Hal at Fernie Ford 250-423-4311 *Plus $399 doc + HST DLR 30507 800-423-4311

Antiques / Classics

Off Road Vehicles

Trucks & Vans

Auto Financing DreamTeam Auto Financing â&#x20AC;&#x153;0â&#x20AC;? Down, Bankruptcy OK Cash Back ! 15 min Approvals

2008 F-150 FX4 CREW 4X4 $

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25,171* STK# UT 0529

Cars - Domestic

2011 TOYOTA RAV4 AWD Great Fuel Savings, Looks Amazing

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lumbia & Co Y

Thursday, April 19, 2012

FERNIVAL

Serving the South Country, Fernie, Sparwood, Elkford since 1898

First Place

Elkford Chauncey Ridge Food Mart Elkford General Store Elkford Mini Mart (Fas Gas) Elkford Video Store Gas Plus Kootenay Market

Fully Loaded

Sparwood A&W Sparwood Causeway Bay Hotel Express Mart Middletown CafĂŠ Overwaitea Peopleâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Drug Mart Royal Bank Sparwood Chamber Sparwood Esso Sparwood Heights Foods Sparwood Husky Sparwood Legion Sparwood Mall Sparwood Pool

2002 WINDSTAR SEL

1967 Chev Custom Sport CST. Very unique colour scheme with stained box wood to match. This Truck is Loaded has it all. Appraised at $58,500. Sell For $32,000. John 250-803-2816

PICK UP YOUR COPY AT THE FOLLOWING LOCATIONS:

Fernie IGS Value Drug Mart Overwaitea Foods Fernie Stop â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;n Shop Midgeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Mags Husky Station Extra Foods Red Tree Lodge 7-Eleven Lizard Creek Lodge Mountain Pantry Fernie Chamber (Highway) Extra Foods Gas Bar Free Press OfďŹ ce

STK# UT 0531

READ ALL ABOUT IT EVERY WEEK! South Country First Perk Coffee Jaffray General Store Jaffray Hardware Store Jaffray Pump & Pantry (Shell)

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2010 FORD FUSION SPORT

er Exce FREE

The Free Press brings home gold!

The fun is over Page 2 ARTS

Pottery with a twist Page 19 EKC AWARD

Rod and Gun club awarded $12,500 Page 22

VOLUNTEER WEEK

Your community newspaper has been named the best one of its size in B.C. and the Yukon. Publisher Dave Hamilton (left) and Editor Angela Treharne (right) accepted the award at the gala event at the River Rock casino in Vancouver on Saturday. For the full story, turn to page 14. Submitted photo

Couple found safe after three day search By Angela Treharne Free Press Staff

couple from Fort Mcleod who had been missing for three days, have been RCMP found safe after sending an emergency call for help. Police and Search and Rescue in the Elk Valley and Alberta had been searching extensively for the couple after they left for a day trip on Saturday morning and did not return. Their family and friends had not Crime reports - Pages heard from them since they 16, 24 and 30

Judith Johannson Page 29

left. At about 4 p.m. on Tuesday, the Elk Valley RCMP were notified of a radio transmission received from a remote area in Bow River. A woman with a European accent indicated that she and her husbandâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s car had become stuck, and they could not get it out. Her husband had an injured knee, but otherwise they were OK. The transmission was very broken, and no further details could be ascertained. A helicopter was dispatched to the area,

and located two people confirmed to be Jacob and Anja Oosterwijk, the missing couple. The Oosterwijks were transported to the hospital to be evaluated. Apparently, after becoming stuck, the two were able to locate a cabin with a radio, and make the call for assistance. Shortly after the transmission, and once a narrower area was determined, a police dog was able to locate the stranded vehicle. Jacob and Anja were found safe Tuesday.

TIME IS RUNNING OUT! List your property with us to be included in the Fernie Real Estate Magazine, 2012 Summer Edition.

Submitted photo

THE FREE PRESS Thursday, December 20, 2012

Brain Games PUZZLE NO. 541 640 PUZZLE NO.

ACROSS 1.

5. 9. 12. 15. 16. 17. 18. 19. 20. 21. 22. 23. 25. 27. 28. 29. 30. 31. 33. 35.

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39. 41. 42. 44. 45. 48. 50. 52. 54.

CHINESE FOOD

ACROSS 1.58. Heating Earlierdevice than 60. present Tune the 61. Surmounting 4.63. Fawn’s Honest mother logs 8.64. Sawed Fedora and 65. Against fez 67. Retaliate for 68. Hawaiian 12. Line welcome 13. Desire 70. Imagine 72. Regal 14. Touched 73. At the end down 74. Showed once 15. more, Go as ona TV program 17. Buddhist 76. Household 77. Card game monk 78. Confidence game 18. Bible book 81. Small dowel 19. Saunter, western style Copyright © 2011 by Penny Press 20. Soup 79. Bit for Fido Breathe scoop 80. Before “blastoff” Seed coat 23. Historic 81. Huff and puff Did the butterfly 82. Radio operator Flight epoch 83. Feminine pronoun Biblical pronoun 25. Certain 84. Pasture sound Showy lily 85. Hence Overweight woodwind 86. Aquatic plant Boor 26. Admired 87. Role for Holly Building wing ANSWER TO PUZZLE NO. 541 shape one 88. Stately tree Container 89. Theater 27. Plant fluid enthusiast, e.g. Approach 30. Sealed 90. Wicked Char Law 32. Dedicate Copyright © 2012 by The Free Press Bond DOWN 10. Standards 11. Kind 12. Trigonometric function 13. Horrify 14. Sallow 24. Kind of collar 25. Ms. West et al. 26. Wander 29. Basic 32. Complain 34. Part of “M*A*S*H” 35. Relay, e.g. 36. Epochal 37. Grain grinder 38. Not well 40. Supplication 43. Accustomed 45. Quaker pronoun 46. Rime 47. Olden times 49. Sedan, e.g. 51. Prophet 53. Shade of gray 56. Sane

55. 57. 59. 60. 62. 64. Skedaddle! 66. Colorful march 68. Presently, formerly 69. Role model 71. Fight 72. Neither rhyme ____ reason 75. Breed of cattle 77. Terrible

1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8. 9.

Cheeky Similar Tiny landmass Recline lazily Acrobats’ garments Soft wool Air Lemon beverage Motorist’s aid

(Best in Town) Hwy. 3 (250)423-3211

ment 34. Haw’s 27. Popular 42. “How do I PUZZLE NO. 542 2. Thick and cohort refreshment love28.____?” “____ of the SpidermeaWoman” sticky substance 28. Upon 35. Shade 43.30. Coal Influence 3. Personal trees 29. Brash sures 31. Northern Weasel 4. “You Only 37. Garlic 31. Wriggly 45.32. Nurse’s 33. Barbers’ trim Live ____” feature 33. Russian ____ 34. Newsreel maker “Eyes of Laura 5. Rave’s 38. Caustic drink 47.35. Fore____” partner chemical 36. Consolida- and-____ 37. Soft fabric Pin-up girl 6. New 39. Change tion 48.39. Draw on 40. Blame 7. Nice sumto fit 39. Restless 49.43. Be in the College vine 44. Adult scrod mer? 40. Crazy 40. Greek wrong 45. Whetstone 8. Saint’s 44. Foulletter 50.47. Clouds’ Sheer curtain fabric headgear smelling 41. Painful region 49. Mechanic’s milieu 9. Pity! 46. Sound 52. Body ANSWER/LAST WEEK - PUZZLE NO. 639 54. Yonder 10. Clock return 57. Exact 11. Remain 47. Stirs 59. Grabbed a bite Copyright © 2011 by Penny Press 51. In the past 16. False85. Farr’s feature ACROSS hoods 48. Dizziness 52. G-men 1. Steeple part 50. Mexican food 86. Lease 19. Gentleman 53. Deluge item 6. Pouchlike part 87. Attack 51. Reasonor refuge 9. Venetian ruler20. Lomond 13. Anglers’ boots Buzzing insect DOWN Ness 53. 54. Votes for shade 15. Purplish 55. Roll 1. Gulp 17. Poet Pound 21. 56. Gauzy fabric Having 55. Deuce 2. Tropical rodent Glacial cover 57. Moonlike 3. Roman date talent beater 18. 19. Embarrass 58. Untrue ANSWER TO PUZZLE 4. Family room 20. Sow’s mate 22. 60. Circle around Terrible 56. Meddle 5. Gay Nineties, e.g. 21. Fuel for KITT Aquatic mammal 6. Bro or sis fate 62. 22. Hat 64. Rapid ____ 7. Cry of dismay 24. Poles DOWN 24. Mulligan ____ 67. Skirt panel 8. Large dwellings 26. Zip 68. Bad actor 26. Leisurely 1. Circle 9. Society gal 27. segAllied by nature 69. Straightforward 29. 31. 34. 35. 36. 38. 41. 42. 44. 46.

Theft Enchant Iron, e.g. Manners Desert retreat Dress for Caesar Militarize Ape Place of worship Equestrian’s leash

10. 11. 12. 14. 15. 16. 23. 25. 27.

71. “The ____ is mightier . . .” 72. Poorly lit 75. Of the ear 77. Cleanse 79. Convert to a cryptogram 82. Go up 83. Dinghy support 84. Muss

PET adoption

PUZZLE NO. 372

PUZZLE NO. 543

PUZZLE NO.544 53. Attention Shiver 54. Enclosure Scatter seed for swine Egg-shaped 55. ____ the line Final drink (conform) Wild ox of 56. Decoration Sulawesi 58. Moreover 14. Budget item 60. Telephone part 17. Playwright’s 61. Sin offering 62. Crooked 23. Black bird 64. Cleave 25. Glacial snow 69. Group of rooms 29. Slow, in music 70. Lodger 30. Kiddie pie ingredient 72. MGM’s mascot 31. Miner’s rock 75. Brink 33. Ambush, e.g. 77. Take by force ROSiE 34. Grave 78. Popcorn topper 35. Dove’s noise 79. Potpourri 37. Time period 81. Choir member 38. Each 82. “Backdraft” event 40. Prevent legally 83. Malicious look 42. Cedar, e.g. 84. Drought-ridden HOW TO PLAY: 44. Film producer 85. Platter Copyright © 2011 by Penny Press Fill in the grid so that every row, every column, and every Hal ____ 87. Male cat 78. Indefinite number Newspaper 3x3 box contains the numbers 1 through 9 only 47. once.Etching fluid 89. Relative section 80. Merrill or Meyer 48. Contributor Make angry 82. Bouquet seller Wed in secret Each 3x3 grades box is outlined with a darker line. You51. already Passing 86. Warn have a few numbers88. to get you started. Remember: In a foreign Certain film country You must not repeat90. the “____ numbers 1 through 9 in the in My Hard drinker same line, column, or 3x3 box. Heart” Wigwam’s 91. Jargon relative 92. Total ANSWER TO PUZZLE NO. 543 Hot chocolate 93. Antitoxins “Cheers” seat 94. Indian pole Site for rods 95. Photocopier’s and cones fluid Work group 96. Card Lethargy Bloodhound’s DOWN enticer December 21 December 23 1. Scottish maiden December 22 “Berlin Express” 2. African lily plant mister Scattered Few Scattered 3. Matrimony Appetite 4. Hurrah Flurries Flurries Flurries Basil sauce 5. Tony’s singing Electric unit High Temp. -4°Cgroup High Temp. -7°C Yell High Temp. Solemn notice Main Low Temp. 6.-10°C Low Temp. -12°C Low Temp. 7. Function thoroughfare Wind SE 5Barrel km/h Wind E 5 km/h Wind Woolly mother 8. plug 9. 10. 11. 12. 13.

49. 50. 52. 54. 57.

Elk Valley WEEKEND

WEATHER updated: Wed., December 19 9:00 MST, Sparwood

66. 67. 68. 71. 73. 74. 76.

14. 24.

is a purebred toy poodle looking for her forever home. Her only wish to Santa 26. 27. is between was for someone to adopt her and give her the love she deserves. ROSiE 29. 6 and 7 years old, current on all her shots, spayed and micro chipped. 31.She is good 32. with kids, not nippy and loves to play fetch. She is good around other dogs but likes 33. 35. Copyright by Penny Press will to chase cats. Being only 8 pounds she is not much of©a2011threat to them. 37. 32. ____ out Her adoption 64. Angle price is $200. ACROSSloving companion. 38. make someone a very good (dwindle) 65. Write 1. “Home Again” requirement, shortly 5. Hollow grass 9. Like some winter roads 12. Physique, for short 15. Grandmother 16. Toward shelter, nautically 17. That girl 18. Previously, in verse 19. Sacred picture 20. Bore 21. “____ North Frederick” 22. Personal quirk 23. Knight 25. Small landmass -9°C 27. Greek porch -14°C 28. Run-down E30.5 Chaney km/h portrayal

comments on 34. Chance ____ 68. Battery type lifetime 70. Immediately, 36. Weight allowance on “ER” 37. Tossed dish 71. Dream 38. Belch 73. Timidity 39. Pro 77. Attack command 40. Black cuckoo 78. Droop 41. Market 79. Relieve 43. ____ Years’ War 81. Eye test 47. Convene 82. Biblical vessel 48. Pulpit 83. Stringed 50. Have an ____ instrument to grind gold! 84. Astringent Free Press brings home 51.TheKingly rod 85. Area 54. Better 86. Sure! 56. “____ Don’t 87. Each Leave” 88. Reason (Lange film) 89. One-pot meal 57. Irritate search 58. Coupl Dishevel e found safe after three day DOWN 59. AAbrasive material 1. Edit a reel 61. Anglo-Saxon peon 2. South American rodent 63. British brew G OUT!

39. 42. 43.

Please contact Oh-Dogs at 250-429-3453 for a list of adoptable dogs.

FRIDAY

P.O.P. 24-hr Snow

SATURDAY

70% 5-10 cm

P.O.P. 24-hr Snow

80% 5-10 cm

SUNDAY

P.O.P. 24-hr Snow

40% Close to 1 cm

ford since 1898 e, Sparwood, Elk h Country, Ferni Serving the Sout

2012 Thursday, April 19,

ape

l el r Exc FREE

FERNIVAL

The fun is over Page 2 ARTS

Pottery with a twist Page 19 EKC AWARD

Rod and Gun club awarded $12,500 Page 22

VOLUNTEER WEEK

Treharne (left) and Editor Angela Publisher Dave Hamilton Submitted photo to page 14. B.C. and the Yukon. For the full story, turn best one of its size in has been named the in Vancouver on Saturday. Your community newspaperat the gala event at the River Rock casino award (right) accepted the

and located two people left. Jacob and on confirmed to be misAt about 4 p.m. Anja Oosterwijk, the Tuesday, the Elk Valley sing couple. of a couple from Fort RCMP were notified The Oosterwijks were received to the hosMcleod who had radio transmission area in Bow transported been missing for from a remote pital to be evaluated. been River. A woman with a after becomthree days, have an European accent indicated Apparently, the two were found safe after sending ing stuck, that she and her husband’s able to locate a cabin with emergency call for help. stuck, and call Police and Search and car had become it out. a radio, and make the and they could not get after Rescue in the Elk Valley an for assistance. Shortly Her husband had once Alberta had been searching the transmission, and knee, but otherwise was deterarea extensively for the couple injured narrower a day they were OK. The transa police dog was after they left for a was very broken, mined, locate the stranded trip on Saturday morning mission details could able to and did not return. Their and no further A helicopter vehicle. not be ascertained. family and friends had area, them since they was dispatched to the Crime reports - Pages heard from 16, 24 and 30 By Angela Treharne Free Press Staff

Judith Johannson Page 29

RCMP

TIME IS RUNNIN

found safe Tuesday. Jacob and Anja were

us to be included in List your property with the Fernie Real Estate Magazine, 2012 Summer Edition.

www.fernierealestate.com

Call 250 423 2000

ANSWER TO PUZZLE

lumbia & Co Y

First Place

59. 63. 65.

Small sword Antelope Electric fish Pastrami seller Yucca fiber Hurrah Yearning Gambler Baltimore ____ (bird) Kind of coffee “Mr. ____ Goes to Town” Substitute Turf Not mine Kind of collar Terror Type size Worrisome ROSiE Fresh talk Uncouth person Show anger Travel Attila’s soldiers

barely makin it animal rescue, rehab, oh-dogs rescue and adoption

Bri tis

43. 45. 46.

5. 6. 7. 8. 9. 10. 11. 12. 13.

41.

Organic compound

OH DOGS RESCUE 250-429-3453

on uk

1. Gentle as a ____ 5. Uncertainty 10. Submarine finder 15. Wing-shaped 16. Ridiculous 18. Sheeplike 19. Short-billed rail 20. Frankfurter 21. Four-wheeled vehicle 22. Domestic 24. FBI agent 26. “____ Old Black Magic” 27. Electrically charged atom 28. Breakfast dish 30. Extinct bird 32. Possessive pronoun 35. Long for 36. Top 39. Compel

Contact Wendy 4. at Card game

ANSWER TO PUZZLE NO. 372

ACROSS

Atmosphere layer Wheat, for one Ahead of schedule Tear apart Tyke Bamboozle Revenue Ire Overpowering respect

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THE FREE PRESS Thursday, December 20, 2012

Business Card Directory SAVE Bellevue THE HST ! VET CLINIC

After hours appointments available. No charge consultation.

Mainstreet, Bellevue, Alberta

Quality Bathtub Products Installed for a Lot Less 1. Less Time 2. Less Mess 3. Less Expense • Made to measure tubliner & tubwalls can be installed over your existing tub, tiles & ceiling. • Guaranteed Installations

302A 2nd Avenue, Fernie, BC V0B 1M0

• Acrylic Tub Liners, Wall Surrounds & Showers

ROCK

P.O. Box 1886 114 Centennial Square Sparwood, BC V0B 2G0

• Afﬁdavits

• Contracts

*Unique Custom Frame & Mat Design *Certiﬁed Professional Framer *YOU NAME IT ~ WE FRAME IT! *22 years serving the Elk Valley

Tel: (250) 423-7689 Toll Free: 1-877-742-2288 www.kootenaytubliners.com

250-423-7236

• Wills

& Picture Framing Ltd.

KOOTENAY BATHTUB LINERS

OVER 10 YEARS EXPERIENCE.

1-403-563-5400 Toll Free:1-866-563-5400

Coalminer’s Gallery

Call for a free estimate today!

Complete, Partial and Immediate Denture. Emergency Repairs, Relines and Sport Mouthguards.

Mon, Tues, Wed & Fri: 8am-5pm Thurs: 8am-8pm

• Stream Protection • Unstable Ground Support • Custom Waterway Drilling & Landscaping

• Leases • Real Estate

Fax: (250) 425-2204

• Mobile Homes

FREE DELIVERY IN THE ELK VALLEY

Email: marian@gravellenotary.com

CLEANING: house, business & move-out

Pampered Paws Boarding Kennel

• INSURED • BONDED • ALL GREEN

Your Dog is Our Priority

”I will return your empties personalized Light Custodial Service and donate the refund Contact Guy to the for a free estimate Fernie 250-423-3482 Womenʼs Cell 250-430-1836 Resource cell 250-430-1836 Centre” guybeaulieu@shaw.ca

Ellen Kathleen Fyfe, LPN . Mobile Licensed Footcare . DVA Provider . Basic, Advanced & Diabetic Footcare

Big or Small We Cuddle Them All!

Trit-Trot Farms

4991 Hwy 3, Fernie, BC 250-423-6883 cell 250-430-1993 trittrotfarms@gmail.com www.trittrotfarms.com

TOTAL MAINTENANCE SERVICES BONDED • INSURED

Starting a STARTING A NEW NEW BUSINESS ? BUSINESS ?

s Collin Turner

We can help!

Email: collin.turner09@hotmail.com Phone: 250-946-6555

Country House Lighting and Shades

url: www.countryhouse.ca email: info@countryhouse.ca

Phone for an appointment: (bus/fax) 778-519-0041 • (c) 506-874-1993 1601, corner of 10th Ave and 16th, Fernie

Chimney Sweeping Fireplace & Woodstove Servicing Visual Inspection & Installations WETT Certified Technicians

EMAIL: tmsfernie@shaw.ca

Farrier S erv

Lighting restorations, historic replicas, custom design, shades and lamp parts.

Owner: Richard Hedrich Phone: 250-919-3643 Email: tiptopchimneys@gmail.com

PROUDLY SERVING THE ELK VALLEY FOR OVER

• Superior Yard/Lawn Maintenance • Irrigation Installations, 19 YEARS! Repairs and Blowouts • Home Maintenance & Security • Annual Maintenance Programs • Snow Removal Services Residential/Commercial

ice

T p Top Chimney Services

1521B - 9th Avenue, Fernie, B.C.

CELL: 250-423-8722

oose L r

ALL SIZES AVAILABLE!

Call George- 250-423-7040 Cell- 250-946-6222

Toll Free: 1-800-668-7729

• Mortgages

from the historic Morrisey Quarry

Wilson’s Drill & Blast Service

Business: (250) 425-2114

• Business Transfers

Phone: 1-888-649-5577

Tu r

/week

Based on a booking for 12 consecutive weeks.

/week or email

Call 250-423-4666 advertising@thefreepress.ca

Wise customers read the fine print: •, *, ♦, ≤, ‡, § The Holiday Event offers are limited time offers which apply to retail deliveries of selected new and unused models purchased from participating dealers on or after December 1, 2012. Dealer order/trade may be necessary. Offers subject to change and may be extended without notice. See participating dealers for complete details and conditions. •$19,998 Purchase Price applies to 2013 Dodge Grand Caravan Canada Value Package (29E+CL9) only and includes $8,100 Consumer Cash Discount. $19,998 Purchase Price applies to 2013 Dodge Journey Canada Value Package (22F+CLE) only and includes $2,000 Consumer Cash Discount. Pricing includes freight ($1,500-$1,595) and excludes licence, insurance, registration, any dealer administration fees and other applicable fees and applicable taxes. Dealer order/trade may be necessary. Dealer may sell for less. See participating dealers for complete details. *Consumer Cash Discounts are offered on select new 2013 vehicles and are deducted from the negotiated price before taxes. Amounts vary by vehicle. See your dealer for complete details. ♦Holiday Bonus Cash up to $1,000 is available on most new 2012/2013 models, excluding the following: Chrysler 200 LX, Dodge Caliber, Dart, Grand Caravan CVP, Journey CVP/SE, Avenger, Viper, Jeep Compass Sport 4x2 & 4x4, Patriot Sport 4x2 & 4x4, Wrangler 2 Dr Sport, Grand Cherokee SRT8, Ram 1500 Reg Cab & ST & SXT Trucks, Ram Cab & Chassis, Ram Cargo Van, FIAT 500 Abarth and 2012 FIAT 500 Pop models. Bonus Cash will be deducted from the negotiated price after taxes. See your dealer for complete details. ≤4.99% lease financing available through WS Leasing Ltd. (a wholly owned subsidiary of Westminster Credit Union) (“WS”) to qualified retail customers on new 2012/2013 Chrysler, Jeep, Dodge, Ram and FIAT models at participating dealers in B.C., Alberta, Saskatchewan, Manitoba and the Territories. Example: 2013 Jeep Grand Cherokee Laredo with a Purchase Price of $34,298 including $1,000 Holiday Bonus Cash and $2,500 Lease Delivery Credit. Purchase Price includes freight (1,595) and excludes licence, insurance, registration, dealer charges and taxes. Lease offer is based on a 60 month term at 4.99% APR and 130 bi-weekly payments of $199. Down payment of $0 and applicable taxes, $475 WS registration fee and first bi-weekly payment are due at lease inception. Total lease obligation is $25,892. Taxes, licence, registration, insurance, dealer charges and excess wear and tear not included. 22,000 kilometer allowance: charge of $.18 per excess kilometer. Some conditions apply. Security deposit may be required. See your dealer for complete details. ‡4.49% purchase financing for up to 96 months available on the new 2013 Dodge Grand Caravan Canada Value Package/2013 Dodge Journey Canada Value Package models to qualified customers on approved credit through Royal Bank of Canada, Scotiabank, TD Auto Finance and Ally Credit Canada. Dealer order/trade may be necessary. Dealer may sell for less. See your dealer for complete details. Examples: 2013 Dodge Grand Caravan Canada Value Package/2013 Dodge Journey Canada Value Package with a Purchase Price of $19,998/$19,998 (including applicable Consumer Cash Discounts) financed at 4.49% over 96 months with $0 down payment equals 208 bi-weekly payments of $115/$115 with a cost of borrowing of $3,823/$3,823 and a total obligation of $23,821/$23,821. Pricing includes freight ($1,500-$1,595) and excludes licence, insurance, registration, any dealer administration fees and other applicable fees and taxes. Dealer order/trade may be necessary. Dealer may sell for less. §2013 Dodge Grand Caravan Crew shown. Price including applicable Consumer Cash Discount: $27,395. 2013 Dodge Journey Crew shown. Price including applicable Consumer Cash Discount: $27,595. Pricing includes freight ($1,500-$1,595) and excludes licence, insurance, registration, any dealer administration fees and other applicable fees and applicable taxes. Dealer order/trade may be necessary. Dealer may sell for less. ■Based on Ward’s 2012 Small Van Segmentation. Excludes other Chrysler Group LLC designed and/or manufactured vehicles. ≠Based on R. L. Polk Canada Inc. January to October 2011 Canadian Total New Vehicle Registration data for Chrysler Crossover Segments. ^Based on 2013 Ward’s Middle Cross Utility segmentation. ¤Based on 2013 EnerGuide Fuel Consumption Guide ratings published by Natural Resources Canada. Transport Canada test methods used. Your actual fuel consumption will vary based on powertrain, driving habits and other factors. 2013 Dodge Grand Caravan – Hwy: 7.9 L/100 km (36 MPG) and City: 12.2 L/100 km (23 MPG). 2013 Dodge Journey SE 2.4 L 4-speed automatic – Hwy: 7.5 L/100 km (38 MPG) and City: 10.8 L/100 km (26 MPG). TMThe SiriusXM logo is a registered trademark of SiriusXM Satellite Radio Inc. ®Jeep is a registered trademark of Chrysler Group LLC.

www.thefreepress.ca

T:10.25”

SCAN HERE FOR MORE 2013 DODGE GRAND CARAVAN CANADA VALUE PACKAGE CANADA’S #1 SELLING MINIVAN FOR 29 YEARS

19,998 •

2ND ROW OVERHEAD 9" VIDEO SCREEN

115

PREMIUM SOFT-TOUCH INTERIOR

OR FINANCE FOR

2ND ROW POWER WINDOWS

2013 DODGE JOURNEY CANADA VALUE PACKAGE CANADA’S #1 SELLING CROSSOVER ≠

INCLUDES $2,000 CONSUMER CASH* AND FREIGHT.

19,998 •

BI-WEEKLY‡

GET UP TO

BEST-IN-CLASS STORAGE^

THE FREE PRESS Thursday, December 20, 2012

2013 Dodge Grand Caravan Crew shown.§

LEASING IS BACK!

ASK ABOUT OUR INTRODUCTORY RATE OF 4.99% FOR UP TO 60 MONTHS $

BI-WEEKLY‡

INCLUDES $8,100 CONSUMER CASH* AND FREIGHT.

2ND ROW SUPER STOW ’n GO®

4.49 %

ALL-WHEEL DRIVE CAPABILITY

BONUS CASH

1,000

≤

115 4.49 @

FOR 96 MONTHS WITH $0 DOWN

36 MPG

7.9 L/100 KM HWY ¤

HWY

BEST-IN-CLASS

283HP

AVAILABLE FEATURES FOR THE 2013 DODGE GRAND CARAVAN

PARKVIEW® REAR BACK-UP CAMERA

7.5 L/100 KM HWY¤ MPG HWY

2013 Dodge Journey Crew shown.§

OR FINANCE FOR

FOR 96 MONTHS WITH $0 DOWN

IT’S YOUR JOURNEY, MAKE THE MOST OF IT.

With these available features:

LARGEST TOUCH-SCREEN IN ITS CLASS^

ON SELECT MODELS

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GREAT OFFERS

Dodge.ca/Offers

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THE FREE PRESS Thursday, December 20, 2012

Do you have something to tell us? Teck has a new feedback mechanism to help our communities communicate with our Elk Valley operations. We invite anyone who may be affected by or who has an interest in Teck’s coal operations in the Elk Valley to forward questions, issues, ideas, concerns, suggestions or complaints to a central location. Our feedback coordinator can then capture these comments and respond to you in a timely, consistent fashion. There are three ways to submit feedback:

Sparwood, BC

Fernie, BC

1. Call toll free to 1-855-806-6854 and leave a message.

The District of Sparwood Office Building – 136 Spruce Avenue

The College of the Rockies, Fernie Campus – 342 3rd Avenue

2. Send an email: feedbackteckcoal@teck.com

The Greenwood Mall, South Entrance – 101 Red Cedar Drive

The Fernie Chamber of Commerce and Business Information Centre – 102 Commerce

Teck Sparwood Office – 609 Douglas Fir Road

Fernie Secondary School – 102 Fairway Drive

Teck Shared Services Office – 421 Pine Avenue

The Fernie Academy – 451 2nd Avenue

Teck Recruitment Centre – Highway #3

Crowsnest Pass, AB

Sparwood Secondary School – 101 Pine Spur Avenue

The Municipality of the Crowsnest Pass Town Office – 8502 19th Avenue, Coleman

Ktunaxa Nation, Cranbrook, BC

The Crowsnest Pass Chamber of Commerce – 12707 20th Avenue, Blairmore

3. Complete a Feedback Submission form which can be found at various locations supplied with locked drop boxes for the completed forms. These forms and boxes can be found at: Elkford, BC The District of Elkford Office Building – 816 Michel Road Chauncey Ridge Food Mart Mall – 2200 Balmer Drive

St. Mary’s Band Office – 7470 Mission Road, Cranbrook

Elkford Secondary School – 2500A Balmer Drive Once we receive your feedback, we will: 1. Acknowledge receipt so you know we have it (please contact the Feedback Coordinator toll free at 1-855-806-6854 if you have not had acknowledgement within 3 weeks of submitting your feedback)

2. Contact you for further information if necessary 3. Try to identify the cause of your feedback and develop a response 4. Provide a formal response to your feedback 5. Ask you to confirm if you are satisfied

Crowsnest Consolidated High School – 8901 20th Avenue, Coleman

6. If your feedback is submitted anonymously, it will still be investigated and the response will be advertised in local newspapers. If you have any questions, please contact Sharon at 250-425-3343, toll-free 1-855806-6854 or feedbackteckcoal@teck.com