The Free Press, December 12, 2013 by Black Press Media Group

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Thursd a y , De cem b er 1 2 , 2013

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

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Christmas cards from Clawhammer

Riders rake Leafs Page 19 ELKFORD

Fire Rescue shaves for a cure - Page 14 SPARWOOD

Seeking some help Page 12

SPORT

Mike Hepher of Clawhammer Letter Press and Gallery gave an introduction into how the printing works at his shop in a card making class on Dec. 8 to a group of five and six-year-olds. Pictured with Mike is Anna Schmidt, age five; Kate Dryborough, age six; Milly Gadd, age five and Evie Gadd, age six. Photo by A. Horton

Fernie Academy skaters - Page 20

ARTS

Art Tappas and wine - Page 13

Fernieâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s humble heroes take action By Tamara Hynd Free Press Staff

casual glance in the rearview mirror led a young Fernie couple rushing to help Richard Altvater save his family. On December 1 the couple (a boyfriend and girlfriend) were driving home from Kimberley on Hwy 3. The roads were slushy with two tire tracks and a berm in the middle of the road so they were driving below the speed limit at 85

kms/hr. They were the only ones on the road until the girlfriend noticed a minivan travelling behind them in the rearview mirror. She glanced in her rearview mirror again in time to see the van launch off to the right of the highway and begin to lift as if it was about to flip. At 1:54 pm the boyfriend called Emergency Medical Services (EMS) before they had even turned their car around. They had no idea what they would find when they arrived at the accident scene. EMS had the boyfriend relay the

accident location, while the couple followed the tire tracks in the snow. They found the vehicle upside down in a beaver pond eight kilometers west of Fernie; it had broken through the ice and the engine was off. It was all reaction at that point. The boyfriend tossed the phone at his girlfriend and he ran down the bank breaking through the ice into waist deep water. He fought his way to the van, going to the passenger side first as it was higher

out of the water and seemed the best chance to enter. The girlfriend started flagging down traffic passing by on the highway. A mother and daughter stopped, so the girlfriend gave them the phone to continue relaying information to EMS. Then she made her way to the van too. The boyfriend went to the front passenger door first but it wouldnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t open. The door handle was submerged in the black and murky water. Continued on page 11

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THE FREE PRESS Thursday, December 12, 2013

BCAS food drive 2013 By Sara Moulton Free Press Staff

he British Columbia Ambulance Service (BCAS) station 406 would like to thank everyone who contributed to their 2013 Christmas food drive on Friday, Dec. 6 and Saturday, Dec 7. BCAS personnel braved temperatures as low as -22 degrees while driving through Fernie’s

neighbourhoods to collect food for the Salvation Army. Sheree Haydu, unit chief of the BCAS 406 station, was pleased to report that the generous donations piled over six tables with non-perishable food, which will be donated to local families. Anyone who missed the drive is encouraged to drop donations off at the ambulance station or directly to the Salvation Army.

Gaming grants Submitted

B.C. Ambulance Service collected six tables of food on Dec. 6 and 7. Photo submitted by Sheree Haydu

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hree organizations vital to the safety of people who enjoy outdoor recreation in the East Kootenay are receiving a total of $132,680 in community gaming grants. The Canadian Avalanche Rescue Dog Association (CARDA) is receiving $70,000, the Sparwood Search and Rescue Society is receiving $56,500 and the Fernie Volunteer Ski Patrol Society is receiving $6,180. “It takes an exceptional effort to train a rescue dog and handler,” Kootenay East MLA Bill Bennett said. “Volunteers with Sparwood’s search-and-rescue, who have helped re-unite missing loved ones with their families, deserve our admiration and support.” The Fernie-based CARDA, founded in 1978, is dedicated to saving lives by partnering specially trained animals with people ready to respond to avalanches at a moment’s notice. This grant was awarded under the Public Safety category of the Community Gaming Grant Program, which allows non-profit organizations to apply for provincial gaming revenues. Gaming Grants are also awarded in the categories of Sport, Human and Social Services, Environment, and Arts and Culture. In the 2012/13 fiscal year, the B.C. government distributed a total of $135 million in gaming grants for eligible community programs and services. For organizations interested in applying for Community Gaming Grants, full application information can be found at www.pssg.gov. bc.ca/gaming.

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THE FREE PRESS Thursday, December 12, 2013

BC Employment Standards CALL for SAND Branch receives complaint against Fernie’s Tim Hortons

By Tamara Hynd Free Press Staff

.C. Federation of Labour President Jim Sinclair called on the RCMP on Monday, Dec. 9 to launch an investigation into Tim Hortons in light of serious allegations of theft and fraud committed against employees who are Temporary Foreign Workers. According to claims by the workers, their boss at Fernie Tim Hortons demanded cash payments for any overtime wages they received. As well, workers allege they were asked to make payments to cover the employer’s cost for the Temporary Foreign Worker Program. Sinclair said these allegations go well beyond infractions covered by B.C.’s Employment Standards Act, and if true, likely constitute serious criminal offenses. Richard Pepito has filed a complaint with B.C. Employment Standards Branch against Fernie Tim Hortons. Pepito and his girlfriend, Heidi Kibanoff, were hired in 2009 under Canada’s Temporary Foreign Worker Program (TFW) by Pierre Pelletier, owner of the Fernie Tim Hortons franchise. Allegations include that Pelletier made TFW employees pay back all or a portion of their overtime wages to him in cash. Pelletier is also accused of charging employees the processing fees for renewing their temporary work permits which, according to regulations, the employer is responsible for paying. Tim Hortons Public Affairs Manager, Olga Petrycki, commented, “We’re reviewing the allegations and can say that we are treating the matter seriously and are currently conducting a review in full cooperation with B.C. Employment Standards.”

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Heidi Kibanoff and Richard Pepito both worked at the Fernie Tim Hortons under the Temporary Foreign Workers Program. Photo by T. Hynd

“We have been cooperating since the allegations have come up and are continuing to fully cooperate with B.C. Employment Standards,” said Kristine Hovind–Pelletier, Pierre Pelletier’s wife in a statement to The Free Press. The Pelletiers could not comment further on the issue as they have been instructed to redirect media to the Tim Hortons head office. The Pelletier’s are known in the community for sponsoring local Timbits hockey teams and donating to Friends for Friends charity with proceeds from the Smile Cookie campaign. The Pelletier’s also own the Tim Horton’s franchise in Blairmore, Alberta. Alex Hanson from United Steelworkers Local 9346 said the union was approached 10 days ago by VancouverKensington MLA Mabel Elmore to investigate claims made by current and former workers at the Fernie Tim Hortons’ location. Alex Hanson, also an executive for the East Kootenay Labour Council said, “We were told they weren’t getting overtime on their regular paycheck. The employer would pay their overtime on a separate check, drive them to the bank to cash the cheque, then ask for some of the cash back telling them it was for their own good.” “The problem is the employers

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have too much power over their employees,” said Hanson. “They come here to obtain a better life and the employer is the gatekeeper.” “We’re asking for local businesses in the East Kootenays to step up and help us find alternative employment for any affected workers,” Hanson said. “This is simply a case of workers in our community stepping up to help other workers in need.” There are 12 Filipino employees at the Fernie Tim Hortons working under a Temporary Worker Permit. Worker’s complaints made to the Employment Standards Branch can go through the four routes of resolution, mediation, adjudication and/or penalty. Pepito’s case is scheduled to go before an adjudicator on Feb. 13, 2014 in Kelowna. At that time, penalties may or may not be levied. “There is rarely a sufficient penalty leveled against the employer by the provincial Employment Standards Branch,” said Sinclair. Despite the federal government’s promise to increase enforcement, and many well-documented cases of exploitation, few employers have been cited for non-compliance. “This case is yet another example of the shameful exploitation that happens with Canada’s Temporary Foreign

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THE FREE PRESS Thursday, December 12, 2013

CORRECTION NOTICE The Jeep Sales Event ad that appeared in this newspaper during the week of November 25, 2013 incorrectly stated that the 2014 Jeep Grand Cherokee SRT with option equipment shown had a price of $48,315. The correct price for the 2014 Jeep Grand Cherokee SRT with optional equipment shown is $64,690. We are sorry for any inconvenience this error may have caused.

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Andre Bloemink extends his stay in the Philippines

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Fernie Writers’ Series 2013 Presented by the Fernie Heritage Library

Grant Lawrence The Lonely End of the Rink Tour

Thursday, December 12, 8:00 pm At the Fernie Heritage Library With music by ‘Redgirl’ “I hate hockey, but I love this book”

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Call the Library at 250-423-4458 or check our website for details at http://fernie.bclibrary.ca

Family Literacy Day Writing Contest Family literacy is all the ways families seek learning together, it is all the ways that families learn and grow. This includes reading books, doing puzzles, singing songs, making up rhymes, baking and writing stories and letters.

Andre Bloemink was deployed to Bantayan island in the Philippines in November to assist ShelterBox recovery efforts after the destruction of Typhoon Haiyan on November 7. Submitted photo By Andre Bloemink Submitted

he days have been full bringing ShelterBox aid to those most vulnerable. The island of Bantayan is where I am currently located. I am currently leading a team of two Americans and one Englishman whom have hit the ground running. We have also been working very closely with other aid organizations and most importantly the Bantayan Volunteer Emergency Response Team (BVERT). This is a group of young 20

January 27th is Family Literacy Day. The Free Press and Columbia Basin Alliance for Literacy want to hear about how you and your family learn together. Contest categories: Grades 5-7: Write a story about your favorite family trip or vacation. Tell us what you did and what you and your family learned. (150-250 words) Grades 2-4: Write a story about your family and how you learn together. Who is involved? What kinds of things do you do? What do you learn? Why do you like it? (100-200 words) Kindergarten and grade 1: Colour a picture of your family learning together and label it. The winner in each category will receive a prize as well as their writing/drawing published in The Free Press!

something locals who have been working tirelessly to help bring a sense of normality to their friends and neighbours. We are employing the BVERTS to aid us with our field assessments and the erection of the tents. We are focusing on those most vulnerable following the storm. These are families with infants or women in the last term of their pregnancies, the elderly, sick or injured, people with special needs who have suffered a total loss of their home to Typhoon Yolanda. Yolanda is

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what the locals have named the storm. My team is the third one to come to this island. By the time we are done there will be nearly 1500 ShelterBox tents on this island. Please do not forget that we have teams in three other areas of the islands affected by the typhoon. The people here are what I will truly take home with me. For the most part, they are getting on with their lives as best they can. The storm has affected them on many fronts. The two primary sources of income here on the islands

is either farming, primarily poultry, or fishing. Both of these livelihoods have seen devastation on a large scale. In some areas damage to the fishing fleet is upwards of 80 per cent and the

fatality rate within the poultry farms near 50 per cent. Despite all of this chaos, the aid workers here are greeted daily with many smiles and many waves. The children are always the shining stars. We, the volunteers, are a bit of a curiosity to them but they are generally not shy. High fives and fist bumps have been a fun way to interact. I have even been allowed to pilot one of their homemade kites of which there are many. I hear the fundraising events are taking place back home with great success. You can feel proud that your efforts are making a tremendous impact here in the Philippines. The relief efforts are far from over so please continue to spread the good word. Be nice to whoever was getting stuck to your school walls. Most importantly, have fun! I will update again as I have extended my stay here to December 20.

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Entries are due January 15, 2014. Mail to: Meghan Morton Community Literacy Coordinator 44 Mt. Washburn Fernie, BC V0B 1M3 or Email: publisher@thefreepress.ca or mmorton@cbal.org

Typhoon Haiyan had winds of 315 km/hr and 5,960 deaths have been confirmed. Submitted photo

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Teck’s Elkview Operations recognized with TSM Leadership Award Award recognizes facility-level excellence in corporate responsibility Submitted

“I congratulate Elkview for its leadership in environmental management, for how it engages with its communities, and for being a model for other mine sites across Canada.” Pierre Gratton MAC’s President and CEO

“Teck employees live and work in this region and they are dedicated to making sure that resource development is sustainable and creates real benefits for the community,” said Marcia Smith, Senior Vice President, Sustainability and External Affairs, Teck. “This achievement reflects the tremendous work of employees at

Elkview Operations who continually work to improve our sustainability performance.” While Elkview’s scores reflect leadership across all TSM categories, the facility stands out for its best practices in Aboriginal and community outreach. In this category, Elkview achieved the highest possible ranking of level “AAA” across all of the indicators that make up this protocol. This includes establishing processes to communicate with a facility’s communities of i n t e re s t , understanding the viewpoints of the communities, and ensuring that those communities are informed of the mine’s activities and performance. “This award shines a light on Elkview’s strong commitment to engaging with the people who live in the community, the Ktunaxa First Nation and the broader public at every stage of the mining life cycle,” noted Gratton. As further evidence to its strong community outreach and

engagement practices, Teck established an advisory panel in March 2012 comprised of representatives from the local community to foster dialogue about its operations and to incorporate community priorities and perspectives into the mine’s decisionmaking. This initiative is aligned with one of Teck’s community sustainability goals: to put processes in place to maximize community benefits and collaboration. Teck’s Elkview Operations is the company’s secondlargest open pit mine, with more than 1,000 full-time employees. It is located just east of Sparwood in southeastern B.C. and produces high-quality steel-making coal. The current annual production capacities of the mine and preparation plant (on a 100 per cent basis) are approximately 6.5 million and 6.5 million tonnes of clean coal, respectively. At current planned production rates, Elkview is estimated to have a remaining reserve life of 34 years.

BC Employment Standards Branch receives complaint against Fernie’s Tim Hortons about them and their welfare. “We came to Canada trying to build a better future for us and for our family. I’m just asking for us to be treated fairly with respect and dignity.” “Local union members are behind these Tim Hortons’ workers 100 per cent,” said Brian Lefebvre from International Union of Operating Engineers, Local 115 (Sparwood). “We want to help any exploited workers escape abuses. “Until a full and robust series of investigations settle this matter, the labour movement in the Elk Valley will provide legal and moral support for workers stepping forward in these uncertain times.” East Kootenay Labour Council in conjunction with Steelworkers Local 9346 and Operating Engineers Local 115 are holding a Tim Hortons Worker Support Rally for the community on Sunday, December 15 at the Fernie Arts Station 11:45 am-1:30 pm featuring guest speaker MLA Mable Elmore.

Continued from page 3

Worker Program,” said Sinclair. “And while this case itself warrants an RCMP investigation, the program itself is equally to blame.” Pepito and Kibanoff resigned from Tim Hortons in the summer of 2013. Both have found new jobs in Fernie. Pepito quickly learned at his new work place that overtime is paid on his regular paycheck. “We did not know how things were suppose to be in Canada; it was a new country for us.” “We’re speaking up for the truth and standing up for our rights,” said Pepito, “not just for us but for Filipinos to be treated well and for Temporary Foreign Workers not to be taken advantage of by their employers.” Kibanoff added, “What we’re fighting for is for all of us, especially for the Filipinos still working there. I’ve been free from that situation for six months, but I still feel the stress and the pain. I feel for the people that are still (working) there. I’ve been in their shoes but I never forget to think

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or its outstanding performance in the Towards Sustainable Mining (TSM) initiative’s three focus areas— environmental footprint, communities and people, and energy efficiency— Teck’s Elkview Operations in British Columbia has been awarded with a special TSM Leadership Award. Teck joins just two other companies with a mine site that has achieved this distinction in the TSM program’s 10-year history. Teck was presented with the award at a reception hosted by the Mining Association of Canada (MAC) on Nov. 28 in Sparwood, British Columbia. The event was attended by Teck employees, members from the local community and government officials. “We are pleased to recognize Elkview with the TSM Leadership Award, which is an important and rare distinction that celebrates a facility for its achievements in the TSM initiative,” said Pierre Gratton, MAC’s President and CEO. “I congratulate Elkview for its leadership in environmental management, for how it engages with its communities, and for being a model for other mine sites across Canada.” TSM Performance Awards are presented annually to MAC members that achieve high levels of performance, and meet or surpass benchmarks in the areas of tailings management, Aboriginal and community outreach, energy use and crisis management planning. A facility’s TSM results must be externally verified to be eligible for this recognition. Teck’s Elkview

Operations was honoured with awards in each of the four performance areas, as well as the TSM Leadership Award for its 2012 results. This award is granted only when a facility meets (or exceeds) a level “A” ranking in their results across all of the four performance categories known as “protocols”.

THE FREE PRESS Thursday, December 12, 2013

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THE FREE PRESS Thursday, December 12, 2013

Opinion

Phone: 250-423-4666 Email: editor@thefreepress.ca

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Editorial by Andrea Horton

I couldn’t let this edition pass without paying respect to a man recognized across the globe for his forgiveness, compassion, and desire to ensure all people are treated equally. On December 5 the world lost an icon, Nelson Mandela (July 18, 1918 – December 5, 2013). While reading Mandela’s famous quotes, I couldn’t help but think of how they were relevant to this week’s local headlines. “What counts in life is not the mere fact that we have lived. It is what difference we have made to the lives of others that will determine the significance of the life we lead.” Upon reading this quote I immediately thought of our front page story this week, where a selfless young couple risked their own well-being to save the lives of a family who had gone off the road and ended up in the Elk River. I thought about the allegations made against another local couple who are accused of mistreating their employees when I read the following quote; “A fundamental concern for others in our individual and community lives would go a long way in making the world the better place we so passionately dreamt of.” How much better the world would be if we lived by Mandela’s wisdom. We can all learn from a man who spent 27 years in prison and, upon being released, chose forgiveness and reconciliation instead of preaching anger and hatred toward his captors. At Mandela’s public memorial service at the First National Bank (FNB) Stadium in Soweto, 91 world leaders joined 90,000 citizens on Tuesday December 10. Perhaps we can look to our leaders at this time of loss as Barack Obama and Cuban President Raul Castro took a page out of Mandela’s book putting aside their differences and shaking hands at his service. Mandela’s funeral will be held on Sunday December 15, 2013. He will be laid to rest in Qunu in the Eastern Cape province.

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Copyright® All rights reserved. Contents copyright by The Free Press. Any reproduction of material contained in this publication in whole or in part is forbidden without the expressed written consent of the publisher. It is agreed that The Free Press will not be responsible for errors or omissions and is not liable for any amount exceeding the cost of the space used and then only such portion where the errors actually appeared. We reserve the right to edit or reject any submission or advertisement that is contrary to our publishing guidelines.

Tamara Hynd

REPORTER

I am getting tired of all the propaganda that is raised over employment rates. B.C.'s rate is up for November, 2013 but is also up for Alberta and Saskatchewan, but our B.C. news media fail to mention this. If you look at the rates from Jan to Nov/2013, you will see that each month, B.C. is always in fourth place each month out of the 10 provinces. So are the other provinces. e.g.: Saskatchewan is always first, Alberta second, Manitoba third, B.C. fourth, etc. Never changes. Only changes in the minds of the B.C. media spreading propaganda. Also when Stats Canada says that E.I. claims are down is not because these people have found jobs. Their EI.. has run out and now they have gone to file a claim with the provincial income assistance branch in their province. WHY IS THIS NEVER MENTIONED? What has happened to the days when we can read news that has had all of the facts listed before making propaganda news headlines? Joe Sawchuk Duncan, B.C.

CONTRIBUTOR

Shelby Cain

CONTRIBUTOR

Jacquie Zutter FRONT OFFICE In Absentia

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. Email your letter to editor@thefreepress.ca

Letters to the Editor Get the facts straight

Jenna Jensen

Canada Post choice

The wording in the article regarding changes to hours at the Jaffray Post Office has led to misconceptions. "The Jaffray Post Office is proposing to change its hours" is not true -- Canada Post is proposing changes to the hours at Jaffray Post Office. The postmaster was never consulted in this regard, never asked for input. Nor was the community. This pending change is not the choice of the local postmaster. Quite the contrary. This is a busy post office, and given the volume processed, it would be difficult to maintain the same service with cut hours. Incoming parcels have increased dramatically with the advent of online shopping. We are a rural community, the Jaffray Post Office being the hub of our other smaller ones in the rural area. The crux of the matter is: this is a Canada Post choice, not a Jaffray Post Office choice, as suggested. Dave Allen Jaffray, B.C.

Deer cull

So, I heard on CBC this morning the Town of Elkford "The Wildlife Capital of BC" is going to cull up to 40 deer. They are an apparent problem in a wildlife capital? If it was not so cruel and uncalled for it would be a joke. Mankind’s answer to nearly all so called wildlife problems. I take Elkfords approach as really obnoxious, first they take over wildlife territory then they have the audacity to bill themselves as the "Wildlife Capital of BC" to supposedly attract tourists to make money. Then when they cannot co-exist, oh well, we will just kill them, seems to work for deer, bear or anything else that gets in our way. Was this cull decided by a referendum? If so how many people actually voted? So many times in politics, politicians use numbers to convince, if a hundred people vote in favour of something out of 5000 - politicians will say it was 100 per cent passed from the number of votes submitted, giving the impression all of the people wanted whatever it was that the referendum was for. Elkford (and any other community for that matter, who might be considering such a move) should be ashamed. They offer up the idea that the meat would go to the local food bank as some kind of reason or justification of this extermination. I say, learn to live with wildlife; they are trying to live with us. That, in my opinion makes them the better living being; we have a lot to learn. David R Gildea Fernie.B.C.

POLL OF THE WEEK Do you have an emergency kit in your vehicle?

Yes 66% No 34% This week’s poll question: Have you done your Christmas shopping yet?

log onto www.thefreepress.ca to make your vote count This web poll is informal, not scientific. It reflects opinions of site visitors who voluntarily participate. Results may not represent the opinions of the public as a whole. Black Press is not responsible for the statistical accuracy of opinions expressed here.

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Letters to the Editor continued from page 6 Re: “BC Employment Standards Branch receives complaint against Fernie’s Tim Hortons” December 5, 2013 Please accept this as an open letter to the people of the Elk Valley, Crowsnest Pass, and especially Fernie. We have a long-standing, personal relationship with the town of Fernie and its residents, including our employees. Kristine was born, raised, and went to school in Fernie and Pierre has lived here for over 34 years and also went to school here. We’ve both worked for local restaurants, small businesses, and the coal mines for over 15 years, earning honest wages to build a life and family and, eventually, invest in and own our own small business. We have many close friends and family here and affiliations with different local groups, charities, and volunteer organizations. We are actively involved in many community events and our children’s schools. At this time, we would like to express how extremely saddened and shocked we are at this recent turn of events and want to set the record straight with our local community. As you know, we employ Temporary Foreign Workers as part of our restaurant team because of the significant shortage of food service workers in the area. Fernie, along with many other communities, has been in a critical labour shortage for many years. Having the Temporary Foreign Worker Program available to us has not only allowed us to keep our doors open, serve our community, and maintain our hours of operation and therefore, jobs for our other employees, but also to protect our family’s future. We are real people, local Fernie-ites who, like everyone, work hard to make a living. Our Temporary Foreign Workers are valued members of our business and community. Some have moved on to other jobs and cities, and some have brought families to our area with our assistance. And we as employers have

been proud to get to know and trust them on a personal and professional level, attending weddings, births, birthdays, parties, and just about anything else you do with someone you call a friend. We feel it’s very important to set the record straight on our support of Temporary Foreign Workers and mention that not only have we provided jobs for these team members, but have also given assistance by providing vehicles, bikes, furniture, laptops, groceries and clothing to help get them started. We’ve also written letters of confidence to the government so they could return after they went home to visit families. ALL of our team members are important to us and we help out whomever we can, however we can. At this time, we want to assure everyone that we are dealing with these allegations as they unfold, and are fully cooperating and complying with the B.C. Employment Standards Board. We intend to respect the process and are not in a position to comment publicly on employment issues or matters relating to the investigation. We want people to know that we have always sought to maintain and run our business with integrity. We have always worked hard to maintain high standards in our business practices, as we have in our community. You all know the many local charities, children’s events, sports teams and community events that we take part in and support. And many of you know us on a personal level and know our character. We’d like to take this opportunity to thank everyone for the overwhelming outpouring of support: the calls, texts, emails and words of encouragement. We will do our best to get through this with courage and dignity. At this time, we respectfully request your patience while we try to deal with this through the proper channels. Thank you for your continued support, Pierre and Kristine Pelletier Fernie, B.C.

THE FREE PRESS Thursday, December 12, 2013

Scotiabank donates to kids’ hockey

Scotiabank donated $1,000 to the Fernie Atoms hockey teams. Presenting the cheque from Scotiabank are Claudette Daigle, Debby Bales, Patti Cooke and Corrine Staley. This donation is based on Scotiabank’s Community Hockey Sponsorship Program. Photo by Holly Helgren

SECURITY for Sparwood Nordic Club Once again Sparwoods Nordic Club trails are being destroyed by inconsiderate trespassers. Last year Eask Kootaney Security/ Bylaw services donated their services to patrol the Nordic Club ski trails for unwanted snowmobiles and ATV users. Dean Juneau of EKSS comments, "It's a shame that people can be so inconsiderate to the enjoyment and families that give so much of themselves to such a great activity in our area. We will be posting signs and patrolling the trails on foot and tracking down violators on our own patrol snow machines. We were very active last year and proud to give our time to such a great club." Dean Juneau is also Sparwood's own district Peace Officer and makes it very clear that anyone that is caught destroying the ski trails will automatically have their quad or snowmobile seized and a fine up to $2000.00 can be issued by him due to his provincially approved Peace Officer authority. Sparwood is a great place to live and so many great people spend their own free time to make it such a wonderful town. Please work with us and report any misguided people so we can make this ski season a great one once again.

College of the Rockies n Fernie Campus

Electrical Construction and Industrial Foundation Program

Cake Jar Fundraiser My name is Meghan Weber, I am a member of Team in Training (TNT) raising money for the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society. I will be selling cake jars and taking donations at Canadain Tire in Fernie December 14 and 21 to meet my donation goal, for a marathon my team and I are running in Florida this January. www.cakejars.blogspot.ca www.teamintraining.ca 519-276-8181 (cell)

BC & NARSA HD Certiﬁed

MANGLED

RADIATORS LTD.

“For all your cooling or heating requirements come on over and see the professionals Bus - 250.425.6413 at Mangled Radiators Ltd!” Cell - 250.425.5283 Answering service after hours

COMPLETE RADIATOR SERVICE INDUSTRIAL TRUCK & HEAVY EQUIPMENT * Automotive * Gas Tank Repairs

Box 1767 * Aluminum Welding * Steam Cleaning Sparwood, BC SERVING THE MINING & LOGGING INDUSTRY SINCE 1982 V0B 2G0

Coming to the Fernie Campus January 13 – June 27, 2014

About the program n Get all of your first year Electrician training at home in Fernie! The Electrical Construction and Industrial Foundation Program covers the basic levels of theory and training preparing graduates for entry level positions. n Program includes Year 1 technical training credit that can be applied towards Apprenticeship and 350 work-based hours credit towards completion of the Construction Electrician Apprenticeship Program.

Limited Seats! Register Today! Fernie Campus is currently accepting applications. Call today to get your application package. To register or for more information contact: College of the Rockies Fernie Campus phone: 250-423-4691 email: fernie@cotr.bc.ca

toll-free 1-866-423-4691 n 250-423-4691 n email: fernie@cotr.bc.ca n www.cotr/fernie

In the Banff section please make it’s ‘are’ $15.00 inGuides Hut’.

THE FREEstead PRESSofThursday, December 12, 2013 ‘at’ and add ‘sold at

Starting Friday, December 13 to Thursday, December 19

The Hobbit:

Frozen

The Desolation of Smaug 3D

Rated: G 7:00 pm ONLY

Rated: PG 7:00 pm ONLY

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Banff Mountain Film Festival

Want your event listed?

Add it online!

Fri., Jan. 3, 2014Tickets are $15.00 sold at The Guide’s Hut

s Event submission

Go to www.thefreepress.ca/calendar/submit/ now

3:00 pm Matinees on Sat & Sun $6.50 2D and $8.50 3D 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-)

are free!

$2.00 Extra $6.50

Around the Valley

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

Mondays

Tuesdays

• 6:30am to 1:00pm – Public Swim at the Fernie Aquatic Centre • 8:45 to 10:15am – Adult Shinny at the Fernie Memorial Arena • 9:00 to 9:45am – Aqua Blast at the Fernie Aquatic Centre • 9:30 to 10:15am – Co-ed Aquafit at the Elkford Pool • 10:00 to 11:00am – Kindergym in the Holy Family Centre, Fernie • 10:00am to 1:30pm- Crafts Fernie Seniors Drop In Centre • 10:00am to 5:00pm- Elkford Library Open • 10:00am to 8:00pm- Sparwood Library Open • 10:30 to 11:15am – Gentle Fit at the Fernie Aquatic Centre • 10:30 to 11:15am – Free Public Skating at the Fernie Memorial Arena • 10:30am to 12:00pm - Toonie Swim at the Elkford Pool • 11:00am to 6:00pm- Fernie Library Open to Public • 11:15am to 12:00pm- Storytime at the Fernie Library for ages 3-5 years • 12:00 to 1:00pm – Skate & Shoot at the Sparwood Arena • Afternoon – Seniors Curling League Play, Fernie • 1:30 to 2:30pm – Parent & Tot Skating in the Sparwood Arena • 3:30 to 8:00pm – Public Swim at the Fernie Aquatic Centre • 6:30 to 8:00pm – Public Swim at

the Sparwood Pool • 7:00 to 8:00pm – Public Skating in the Sparwood Arena • 7:30pm – Cribbage Fernie Seniors Drop In Centre • 8:00 to 9:00pm – 14+ Swim at the Sparwood Pool

Wednesdays

• 6:30am to 1:00pm – Public Swim at the Fernie Aquatic Centre • 7:00 to 10:00am – Early Bird Swim at the Sparwood Pool • 8:30 to 9:15am – Active Fit at the Fernie Aquatic Centre • 8:30 to 9:30am – Gentle Fit at the Sparwood Pool • 8:45 to 10:15am – Adult Shinny at the Fernie Memorial Arena • 9:30 to 10:15am – Co-ed Aquafit at the Elkford Pool • 10:00 to 11:00am – Kindergym in the Holy Family Centre, Fernie • 10:00 to 11:00am – Aqua Fit at the Sparwood Pool • 10:00am to 5:00pm- Sparwood Library Open • 10:00am to 5:00pm- Elkford Library Open • 10:30 to 11:15am – Free Public Skating at the Fernie Memorial Arena • 10:30am to 12:00pm - Toonie Swim at the Elkford Pool • 11:00am to 6:00pm- Fernie Library Open to Public • 11:15am to 12:00pmToddlertime at the Fernie Library for ages 2 & under • 12:00pm- Fernie Rotary Meeting Park Place Lodge • 12:00 to 1:00pm – Skate & Shoot at the Sparwood Arena • 1:00pm- Cribbage Fernie Seniors Drop In Centre • 1:15 to 2:30 pm – Skate & Shoot at the Fernie Memorial Arena • 3:30 to 4:45 pm – Lego Club & Board Games at the Fernie Library, ages 6-10 years • 3:30 to 5:00pm – After School Rec Hockey in the Sparwood Arena • 3:30 to 8:00pm – Public Swim at the Fernie Aquatic Centre • 6:30 to 8:00pm – Public Swim at the Sparwood Pool • 7:00pm – Free Dance Lessons in the Fernie Legion Hall • 7:00 to 9:00pm- Sonrise Healing Rooms Open for Prayers 1361 Eighth Ave. Fernie • 7:00 to 9:00pm – Adult (19+) Badminton, Fernie Community Centre • 7:30pm- Alcoholics Anonymous Meeting, Christ Church Anglican, 591 4th Ave. Fernie • 8:00 to 9:00pm – 14+ Swim at the Sparwood Pool

Thursdays

• 6:30am to 1:00pm – Public Swim at the Fernie Aquatic Centre • 8:45 to 10:15am – Adult Shinny at the Fernie Memorial Arena • 9:00 to 9:45am – Aqua Blast at the Fernie Aquatic Centre • 9:30-11:30am - MOMs Group at the Fernie Library • 10:00am to 8:00pm- Sparwood Library Open • 10:30 to 11:15am – Gentle Fit at the Fernie Aquatic Centre • 10:30 to 11:15am – Free Public Skating at the Fernie Memorial Arena • 10:30am to 12:00pm - Toonie Swim at the Elkford Pool • 11:00am to 6:00pm- Elkford Library Open • 11:00am to 8:00pm- Fernie Library Open to Public • 12:00 to 1:00pm – Skate & Shoot at the Sparwood Arena • 3:30 to 8:00pm – Public Swim at the Fernie Aquatic Centre • 6:00 to 8:00pm – Public Swim at the Elkford Pool • 6:30 to 9:00pm – Public Swim at the Sparwood Pool • 7:00 to 8:00pm – Public Skating in the Sparwood Arena • 9:30 to 11:00pm – Adult Rec Hockey in the Sparwood Arena

Fridays

• 6:30am to 1:00pm – Public Swim at the Fernie Aquatic Centre • 7:00 to 10:00am – Early Bird Swim at the Sparwood Pool • 8:30 to 9:15am – Aqua Blast at the Fernie Aquatic Centre • 8:30 to 9:30am – Gentle Fit at the Sparwood Pool • 9:00 to 11:00am- Adult Badminton Fernie Community Centre • 9:30 to 10:15am – Co-ed Aquafit at the Elkford Pool • 10:00 to 11:00am – Kindergym in the Holy Family Centre, Fernie • 10:00 to 11:00am – Aqua Fit at the Sparwood Pool • 10:00am to 5:00pm- Sparwood Library Open • 10:30 to 11:15am – Gentle Fit at the Fernie Aquatic Centre • 10:30am to 12:00pm - Toonie Swim at the Elkford Pool • 11:00am to 6:00pm Fernie Library Open to Public • 11:00am to 6:00pm- Elkford Library Open • 11:15am to 12:00pm- Storytime at the Fernie Library for ages 3-5 years • 12:00 to 1:00pm – Skate & Shoot at the Sparwood Arena • Afternoon – Seniors Curling

League Play, Fernie • 1:15 to 3:15pm – Public Swim at the Elkford Pool • 3:30 to 4:45pm – Word Play at the Fernie Library, ages 11-13 years • 3:30 to 8:00pm – Public Swim at the Fernie Aquatic Centre • 4:00 to 5:30pm – Free Public Swim at the Sparwood Pool • 6:00 to 8:00pm – $3.00 Swim at the Elkford Pool • 6:30 to 9:00pm – Public Swim at the Sparwood Pool • 7:00 to 8:15pm – Public Skating at the Fernie Memorial Arena • 7:30pm- Jitney Darts Fernie Legion • 7:30pm – Cribbage Fernie Seniors Drop In Centre • 8:00 to 9:00pm – Teen Swim (Grades 7-12) at the Elkford Pool

Saturdays

• 10:00am to 5:00pm- Sparwood Library Open • Noon to 5:00pm- Elkford Library Open • 1:00 to 5:00pm- Fernie Library Open to Public • 1:00 to 3:00pm – DnD for Teens at the Fernie Library • 2:00 to 3:45pm – Public Skating at the Fernie Memorial Arena • 2:00 to 8:00pm – Public Swim at the Fernie Aquatic Centre • 2:00 to 5:30pm – Public Swim at the Sparwood Pool • 2:30 to 4:30pm – Public Swim at the Elkford Pool • 4:00 to 6:00pm- Meat Draw & 50/50 Fernie Legion • 5:30 to 8:00pm – Public Swim at the Elkford Pool • 6:30 to 9:00pm – Public Swim at the Sparwood Pool • 6:45 to 8:15pm – Public Skating at the Fernie Memorial Arena

Sundays

• 12:00 to 2:00pm – Public Swim at the Sparwood Pool • 1:00 to 2:30pm – ‘Game On!’ board games at the Fernie Library • 1:00 to 5:00pm – Fernie Library Open to Public • 1:00 to 5:00pm – Public Swim at the Elkford Pool • 2:00 to 5:30pm – Public Swim at the Sparwood Pool • 2:00 to 8:00pm – Public Swim at the Fernie Aquatic Centre • 2:15 to 4:00pm – Public Skating at the Fernie Memorial Arena • 3:00 to 4:45pm – Public Skating in the Sparwood Arena (most Sundays) • 7:30pm- Alcoholics Anonymous Meeting, Christ Church Anglican, 591 4th Ave. Fernie

UPCOMING EVENTS DECEMBER 12

Booked! Fernie Writers’ Series: Grant Lawrence, 6:45pm for pass holders & 8pm general public 13 Holiday movie: Afterschool Drop-in, Fernie Library, 3:304:45pm, ages 6-10yrs 13 Friends of Opera, LaBoheme by Puccini, Fernie Arts Station, 7pm 14 Jingle Jam, Fernie Heritage Library, 2-4pm 15 Carol Jam: The Ukulele Underground Circle, Fernie Heritage Library, 2pm 17 B3 King Festive Jazz, Fernie Arts Station, 7pm 17 Story Time Christmas party, Fernie Library, 11:15am-12 noon 17-20 Heart Warming: Afterschool Drop-in, Fernie Library, 3:304:45pm 18 Toddler Time Christmas party, Fernie Library, 11:15am-12 noon 20 Holiday movie: Afterschool Drop-in, Fernie Library, 3:304:45pm, ages 6-10yrs 20 Fernie Ghostriders vs. Columbia Valley Rockies, Fernie Memorial Arena, 7:30pm 20 Community Christmas Show, Fernie Arts Station, 7pm 21 Christmas Celebration, Fernie Library, 2pm 21 Jingle Jam at Beanpod in Fernie, 2-4pm 21-23 Christmas Crafts & Games, Fernie Aquatic Centre, 4-5pm 22 Shortbread Showdown, Fernie Arts Station, 1-3pm 23 & 24 Griz Kidz Ski & Photos with Santa at Fernie Alpine Resort 24 Christmas Eve Matinee, Fernie Library, 2-3:30pm 28 Yule Create Kids Camp, Fernie Arts Station, 9 am-noon 28 Fernie Ghostriders vs. Kimberley Dynamiters, Fernie Memorial Arena, 7:30pm 30 Fernie Ghostriders vs. Columbia Valley Rockies, Fernie Memorial Arena, 7:30pm 31 Griz Kidz Family New Years Eve Fun Event at Fernie Alpine Resort 31 Polar Bear Swim, Fernie Aquatic Centre, 6pm 31 New Year’s Eve Griz Bar Party at FAR

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THE FREE PRESS Thursday, December 12, 2013

CONNECTION

CITY OF FERNIE BRITISH COLUMBIA

City of Fernie CONNECTION | Community Information and Opportunities | www.fernie.ca SurvEIllAnCE CAMErAS In tHE DoWntoWn CorE SurvEy

City Council Meeting Schedule

Do you support the use video surveillance cameras in the downtown core to assist with crime control? As part of our public engagement process, the City of Fernie is inviting you to share your comments on the use of this technology.

December 2013 1 8 15 22 29

2 9 16 23 30

3 4 5 6 10 11 12 13 17 18 19 20 24 CITY 25 OF 26FERNIE 27 BRITISH COLUMBIA 31

7 14 21 28

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

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 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)

For all Police, Ambulance or Fire related emergencies: Call 911

FErnIE AquAtIC CEntrE Holiday Hours Dec 23 Dec 24 Dec 25/26 Dec 27 Dec 28/29 Dec 30/31 Jan 1 Jan 2/3

6:30am-8pm 6:30am-3pm CLOSED 6:30am-8pm 2 - 8:00pm 6:30am-8pm CLOSED 6:30am-8pm

Please visit the City’s website at www.fernie.ca for more information. This survey shall remain open until 9:00AM on Monday, January 6, 2014, the results of which shall be formally presented at the Committee of the Whole meeting on Monday, January 13, 2014. Michelle Martineau, CMC, rP® Director of Corporate Administration Services

WIntEr PArKInG In EFFECt novEMBEr 1 to APrIl 15tH Do you know the parking schedule for your area?

Alternate Parking Schedule: no PArKInG permitted on the South or East Side of the Roadways- Monday, Wednesday, Friday and Sunday no PArKInG permitted on the North or West Side of the Roadways- Tuesday, Thursday and Saturdays Residents living in Ridgemont area and 15th St (Hospital Road) please pay attention to posted signage. Enforcement Winter parking regulations will be enforced. Any vehicle parked contrary to posted signage, or the regulation, is subject to towing, vehicle impoundment and fees. It is your responsibility to ensure that doesn’t happen to you! Visit the city’s website at www.fernie.ca for a copy of the parking map or stop by City Hall Mon – Fri between the hours of 8:00AM – 5:00PM towed vehicles For Information regarding towed vehicles please contact City Hall at 250 423-6817 Mon – Fri between the hours of 8:00AM – 5:00PM After Hour and Weekends Contact the Aquatic Centre at 250.423.4466 ext. 0 during the following hours to pay for your towing fees: Sunday, 2-8PM; Monday, 5-6PM; Tuesday, 5-8PM; Wednesday, 5-8PM; Thursday, 5-8PM; Friday, 5-8PM; Saturday, 2-8PM Vehicles are available for pickup Sunday – Saturday 7:00AM – Midnight. ONLY FOLLOWING PAYMENT OF FEES. If you have paid the tow fees at City Hall or the Aquatic Centre please contact the Fire Hall at 250.423.4226 to arrange for the collection of your vehicle.

WIntEr SIDEWAlKS

Snow/ice covered walkways and driveways make it difficult for people to get around. Please ensure that your sidewalks are cleared and safe for everyone to use. The owner or occupant of any business or private property adjacent to a sidewalk is deemed responsible for the removal of ice and snow from that portion of the sidewalk before 9:00AM each day, failure to do so could result in a fine. Plan Ahead: • Be sure you have the proper tools to maintain your walks. A good snow shovel, an ice chipper and sand are all essentials that you should have throughout the winter months. The City of Fernie appreciates your cooperation!

Holiday Events Join us for fun and interactive Holiday themed games and crafts. Ages 3+ are welcome! Sat. Dec 21 Sun. Dec 22 Mon. Dec 23

4-5pm 4-5pm 4-5pm

Polar Bear Swim Tues. Dec 31st 6:00pm

ByPASS to ElK rIvEr

The City of Fernie wishes to advise area residents that in order to dispose of excessive amounts of storm water in the sanitary sewer collection system due to recent rain and snow melt it is necessary to temporarily bypass treated effluent to the Elk River. This bypass will take place December 4 to December 18, 2013 in accordance with the Ministry of Environment Operating Permit. For further information please contact City Hall at 250-423-6817.

GEorGE S. MAjIC SPIrItuS AWArD Please join us in congratulating Mr. Mario Rocca this year’s recipient of the George Majic Spiritus Award Presentation Ceremony will be held at City Hall on Monday, December 16 at 6:00 PM prior to the Regular Meeting of Council. Congratulations Mr. Rocca for being Fernie’s “Unsung Hero” for 2013.

FErnIE lEISurE SErvICES Winter registration Is now open!

Now is the time to sign up for your favorite Leisure Services Program. Lessons, Gymnastics, Fitness Classes, and Children’s Programs are available! 250.423.4466 / 250 Pine Ave

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THE FREE PRESS Thursday, December 12, 2013

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

Upcoming Meetings of Council Monday, December 16 Monday, January 6

(in Council Chambers) Regular Meeting at 7:00 pm Regular Meeting at 7:00 pm

Notice of Road Closure

Toilet Replacement Rebate Program Ending Soon Since 2011 the District has operated the Toilet Replacement Rebate Program in which we will give you up to $100 back when you install an eligible toilet as a replacement for your old 13L per ﬂush (or greater) model.

2. IMPORTANT: Take your old toilet to the Sparwood Transfer Station; 3. Obtain a Signature from an Attendant at the Sparwood Transfer Station conﬁrming that you have dropped off a 13L (or greater) toilet for recycling; and 4. Bring Signed Application and Original Receipts to the Main Ofﬁce, or the Engineering Department by January 15, 2013.

The program will be ending on December 31, 2013 Where? but residents and commercial businesses have until Red Cedar Drive Centennial Notice of from Road Closure January 15, 2014 to submit a form for a toilet Street to Alpine Place (the Hill). purchased in 2013. Where? When? Questions? What Red Cedar Drive from Centennial Street to Alpine Place (the Hill).to do? Beginning the week of December 2 for Please contact the Engineering Department at 1. Purchase and install any brand new CSAapproximately When? 2 - 4 weeks. 250.425.6271 for additional information. approved, 6L or dual flush toilet; Beginning the week of November 26 for approximately 2 - 4 Why? weeks. To repair the embankment on Red CedarWhy? Drive. To repair the embankment on Red Cedar Drive. Notice is hereby given that a Public Hearing will be held on Monday, December 16, 2013 at 7:00 p.m. in What? Council Chambers, 136 Spruce Avenue, Sparwood, BC, to consider a proposed amendment to the District of Soil nailing - a method of placing What? Sparwood “Zoning Bylaw No. 264 1981”. steel rods or tubes into the Soil numerous nailing - a method of placing numerous steel rods or tubes into side the side of the embankment on on an the soil. of the embankment an angle angletotostabilize Applicant: District of Sparwood stabilize the soil. Property affected: All properties within the Agricultural Land (A-1) zone. Who? Who? The General Contractor will be Geostabilization International In general terms, Bylaw 1131 cited as "Zoning Bylaw No. 264, 1981 Amendment Bylaw 1131, 2013” will (GSI) The General Contractor will be address land use changes required to reduce conflicts in land use due to the proposed Agricultural Land Geostabilization International Commission exclusion of a number of A-1 properties. However, additional housekeeping changes have been Detour? (GSI) added Use Centennial Street to Spruce Avenue and Pine Avenue to to this Bylaw amendment proposal including clarifying some of the language surrounding density and Detour? detour. secondary suites. Use Centennial Street to Spruce Avenue and PinePedestrian? Avenue to detour. All persons who believe that their interest is affected by the proposed bylaws shall be afforded a reasonable Both staircases will stay open and the pedestrian trail on the opportunity to be heard in person, by a representative, or by written submission on the matters contained Pedestrian? north side of Red Cedar Drive (above the fence) will remain open. within Bylaw 1131 at the Public Hearing. Written submissions may be sent to the District of Sparwood, Box Both staircases will stay open and the 520, Sparwood, BC V0B 2G0. Electronic submissions by email should be sent to sparwood@sparwood.ca. pedestrian trail on the north side of Questions? Please note that due to potential email issues, all submissions sent by email should be confirmed by phone Contact Engineering at 250.425.6830. Red Cedar Drive (above the fence) will www.sparwood.ca/roads at the number listed below. These submissions must be received by no later than 4:00 p.m. on December 16, remain open. 2013 in order to ensure their availability to Council at the Public Hearing. All submissions must include your Questions? name and street address and are considered public information, pursuant to the Freedom of Information and Contact Engineering at 250.425.6830 Protection of Privacy Act. www.sparwood.ca/roads Following the close of the Public Hearing, no further submissions or comments from the public or interested persons can be accepted by members of Council.

NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING

Disposition of Land: Whitewood Crescent

Thinking about moving to Sparwood? There are endless reasons why you should: a great community spirit, exceptional location and incredible lifestyle opportunities.

Sparwood is situated in the South-Eastern corner of BC. Sparwood is a family-friendly Rocky Mountain community nestled in the heart of BC's Elk Valley. Our community offers exceptional lifestyle opportunities just out the back door that include world-class skiing, ﬁshing, hiking, biking and hunting or simply spending time in the great outdoors. Sparwood was founded on a coal mining heritage and we're still the same hard working families and great folk that make this one of the world's great places to live.

Whether you are considering moving here or already live here and are considering building your own home, we have four residential lots available for sale at very reasonable prices. ** NEW REDUCED PRICES **

Lot 5 6 8 23

District Lot 4135 4135 4135 4135

Plan NEP82630 NEP82630 NEP82630 NEP82630

Address 1309 Whitewood Crescent 1311 Whitewood Crescent 1315 Whitewood Crescent 1306 Whitewood Crescent

Sale Price $66,600 $58,050 $58,050 $58,050

Located in Sparwood Heights and only a short walk to the proposed Whiskey Jack Resort, local trails and parks, Whitewood Crescent is a desirable location for your new home.

All new homes in Whitewood Crescent must have the design approved by Council as per the registered Building Scheme and must include an attached garage. Zoning for this subdivision permits single family dwellings and modular homes. Building Deadline Sales for Whitewood Crescent will be subject to an Option to Purchase that will be registered on title. In general terms, the Option states that a building permit must be obtained within one year of purchasing the property. The owner then has two years after the permit is obtained to substantially complete construction on the lot, including receiving Occupancy Certificate and finishing driveway and landscape areas (including grading). Failure to comply with these deadlines could result in the District purchasing the lots back at 90% of the original sale price. Purchase Process Sales will start December 13, 2013 at 8:30 a.m. MT at the District Office and are on a first come, first serve basis and must be in person or by an authorized agent. A 10% deposit is required and you must enter into a sales agreement with the District of Sparwood to pay the balance within 42 days. Note that prices listed do not include applicable taxes. For More Information: Contact the District of Sparwood Engineering Department at 250.425.6271

The above Bylaws and related staff reports and background information may be inspected at the Municipal Ofﬁce, 136 Spruce Avenue, Sparwood, B.C., from December 2, 2013 – December 16, 2013 during regular ofﬁce hours of 8:30 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. local time, Monday to Friday. Additional information may be obtained by contacting the Planning Department at 136 Spruce Avenue or (250) 425-6271. Dated December 2, 2013 Nelson Wight Manager of Planning

Holiday Hours and Information

The District of Sparwood Municipal Ofﬁce and Engineering Ofﬁce Hours: December 24, 2013 December 25, 2013 December 26, 2013 December 27, 2013 December 30, 2013 December 31, 2013

8:30 am - Noon CLOSED CLOSED CLOSED 8:30 am – 4:00 pm 8:30 am – 2:00 pm

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 Wednesday, December 25, will be picked up on Tuesday, December 24 and all garbage normally picked up on Thursday, December 26, will be picked up on Friday, December 27. All garbage normally picked up on Wednesday, January 1, 2014, will be picked up on Thursday, January 2, 2014. PLEASE HAVE YOUR GARBAGE SET OUT BY 8:00 A.M. There are no limits on number of garbage bags from December 16, 2013 to January 11, 2014. 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, 2013 December 25 and 26, 2013 December 31, 2013 January 1, 2014

10:00 am to 4:00 pm Closed 10:00 am to 4:00 pm 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 10, 2014. Please ensure that you have removed the tinsel before discarding tree. For further information, please contact the Public Works Department at 250.425.7760.

Animal Pound Emergencies For animal emergencies, please call 250.425.7718 From Council and Staff of the District of Sparwood have a Safe and Happy Holiday Season

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THE FREE PRESS Thursday, December 12, 2013

Fernie’s humble heroes take action Continued from page 1

He tried the passenger sliding door and it opened all the way. The van was full of water except for a six-inch air pocket at the top. He could see Richard who had managed his way into the back. He was yelling that he had a wife and three kids in the van. “There was zero visibility in the water so it was crucial that the father could communicate that to us because we couldn’t see a thing,” said the boyfriend. Again the boyfriend tried the front passenger door but it was stuck with all the mud. He went back to the back passenger side and “suddenly there was a little girl in my arms who was scared and in shock. Her dad must have gotten her free”. The boyfriend gave the little girl to his girlfriend who brought the child up the steep bank where she gave the girl her down jacket and left her in the safety of a warm truck with a family who had stopped. “The dad never gave up,” said the boyfriend. “Richard couldn’t feel his hands anymore but we kept trying. He must have unbuckled his kids.” The boyfriend reached into the water with his arms as far as he could with water up to his neck when suddenly a boy was in his arms. He could see the boy was trying to breath as he carried him to shore wiping away the water coming out of his mouth. He passed the boy to his girlfriend

who cleared the child’s airway, as she knew he had been under water for a while. “I didn’t have time to think,” said the girlfriend. “Autopilot turned on. I needed to make sure each person was safe before leaving them. When one was OK, then I could go back (to the van).” The boyfriend called out for a knife to the several people who had stopped by then. He ran back down to the van and cut the front passenger seatbelt by reaching around from behind the seat. He still couldn’t feel anyone in the dark water. He knew then he needed to get the passenger door open. “I started yelling for help to the people on the shore and two men rushed into the water to assist me,” said the boyfriend. The three men pulled on the door in unison as the boyfriend called out “one, two, three, pull” over and over, heaving the door open inch by inch until it was wide enough to reach inside. He finally reached the mother, Kunthea Altvater, and carried her to shore and up the steep slippery bank to the roadside. The couple performed two person CPR on her for approximately five minutes until EMS arrived. The girlfriend went in the ambulance continuing with assisted breathing on the mother, arriving at the Elk Valley Hospital at 2:35 pm. The boyfriend stayed to help EMS package the little

boys on to spine boards and into the ambulances. Eventually he changed into a dry set of clothes he had in their car. He was shaking violently and sat in the car to warm up before driving himself to the Elk Valley Hospital in Fernie to pick up his girlfriend. Then they drove home. “We’re so thankful that we do have first aid training and feel good that we could help,” said the couple. They both have Occupational First Aid Level 3. Looking back at the incident four days later, the couple had a very clear reflection of the traumatic event. “The role of the father was crucial,” they said. “He (Richard) told us how many people were in the van so we knew who to look for and EMS could send several more ambulances and resources immediately. Plus the father’s familiarity with the van made all the difference. He was able to open the back door, pull the luggage out and unclip the rear seat to get at the youngest child in his car seat. “So many people gave assistance that day. People at the side of the road had blankets and clothes; the mother and daughter speaking with EMS.” “We don’t want the baggage of the press,” added the girlfriend. “This is a time to respect the loss the Altvater family has endured.” Hearing that representatives from the B.C. Humane Society

and the B.C. Yukon Branch of the Lifesaving Society feel the couple should be awarded for their bravery the boyfriend responded, “It’s an action; anybody could and should do it. It’s a tough time for the (Altvater) family and that’s what the focus should be.” Sadly, Kunthea passed away after she arrived at the Elk Valley Hospital. Richard and their seven-year-old daughter Rachelle were treated for

hypothermia and minor injuries at the Sparwood hospital and released. The two younger boys, Alex and Ben, were transported to Alberta Children’s Hospital in Calgary by air ambulance in severe condition. Four-year-old Ben has since been transported to an Edmonton hospital and remains in a medical induced coma. The Altvater family is from Coaldale, Alberta.

The Altvater family from Coaldale, Alta., were travelling in their minivan on Sunday, Dec.1 near Fernie when their vehicle skidded off Highway 3 and into a branch of the Elk River. Kunthea Altvater, the mother of three and wife of Richard Altvater, was killed. The couple’s daughter and Richard Altvater were treated in hospital, and their two sons are in critical condition. Photo by M. Greenwood

Sparwood Community & Facility Services 367 Pine Avenue, Box 669, Sparwood, BC V0B 2G0 Phone: 250-425-0552 Fax: 250-425-0551 Email: recoffice@sparwood.ca

January 13, 2011

2014 SWIM LESSON SCHEDULE WINTER SET #1

3:30 – 4:00 pm 4:00 - 4:30 pm 4:30 – 5:00 pm

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Monday – Friday 12:00-1:00 pm Monday 3:30-5:00 pm Tuesdays & Thursdays 7:00-8:00 pm (Most) Sundays 3:00-4:45 pm Parent & Tot Tuesdays 1:30-2:30 pm After School Rec Hockey Wednesdays 3:45-5:00 pm Adult Rec Hockey Thursdays 9:30-11:00 pm

The District of Swim Sparwood is pleased to announce the After School Club

ideally positioned to clearly and consistently share our Salamander

community’s story,” said Terry Melcer, The District of

11:30 – 12:00 Noon 3:30 – 4:00 pm 4:00 - 4:30 pm

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important audience first — our own community.”

YOUTH 3-ON-3 The initial results of the branding exercise include a new DROP IN HOCKEY

logo, new taglines, a community website, professional Sparwood’s Chief Administrative Officer. Lace ‘em up and hit the ice! A great opportunity for youth ages Level 6, Level 7 12 and up to come out and experience a 3 on images, 3 hockey game. posters, trade show materials, ads, and other Level 4, Level 5

Referee and supervision supplied. Unlike many community brands, Sparwood’s brand has

• December 23, 27, 28, 29, and 30 • $8.00 not been developed primarily to increase tourism orPER SKATER PER January 14th – February 13th, 2014 SESSION; Goalies FREE Tuesdays & Thursdays - 2 visitors. Hours - $170 attract destination Rather, its brand •development Runs from 7:00 - 8:30 pm $32 Manual & $35 Pocket Mask • NO TEAM REQUIRED is to strengthen its distinctive characteristics, demonstrate • Full Gear Required 3:30 - 5:30 pm Bronze Medallion • Waiverand of Liability must a desire to continue to develop economic diversity, FOR MORE INFORMATION CALL (250) 425-0552 be signed (1x) by parent www.sparwood.ca/recreation to continue to provide a solid foundation to increase 4:30 – 5:00 pm

Tuesday & Thursday 6:45 - 7:45 pm October 15 - December 12, 2013 Drop In or ALP Come out & experience yoga with your community. Move your body, and add this class to your fitness schedule!

Tuesday 1:00 - 2:00 pm October 15 - December 10, 2013 Drop In or ALP Connect coordination, flexibility, and balance in a comfortably paced environment. This is a great class for men and women looking to increase vitality on and off the mat. (Must be able to get up and down from the floor.) Melcer. “This allows our brand to resonate with our most

Skate & Shoot Public Skating

January 14thof- its February 13th,and 2014 launch new brand identity. “We’re now Tuesdays & Thursdays - ½ Hour - $38 (10 Lesson Set) 11:00 - 11:30 am

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informational collateral, as well as recommendations on how to implement the brand as the community moves forward and begins to proactively share its story. “We’re not intent on strictly developing as a tourism community,” says Melcer. “But we are intent on

www.thefreepress.ca

THE FREE PRESS Thursday, December 12, 2013

Products and prizes on show at Fernie Information Trade Fair By Sara Moulton Free Press Staff

ocal businesses showcased their products and services at the third annual Fernie Information Trade Fair last Thursday, December 5. This year’s event, hosted by Tourism Fernie and the Fernie Chamber of Commerce, provided an opportunity for attendees to talk directly to representatives from various businesses in the Elk Valley. With complimentary food and drink available in addition to

Julie Comete from the Royal Hotel and Steph Fleming from Infinitea talk to attendees at the Fernie Information Trade Fair. Photo by S. Moulton

of the catskiing adventure and plans to share the prize with his girlfriend, Jade. Rachael Fitzios from the Fernie Chamber of Commerce is already looking forward to next year’s event and is hoping that the turnout will be even stronger. “The night went well and we’ll be holding another at the beginning of the next winter season,” said Fitzios. “We’d love to see more attendees from front-line and customer service positions.”

Seeking some help this holiday season By Jenna Jensen Contributor

“

Shaun Williams wins a day of cat skiing with Fernie Wilderness Adventures. Photo by S. Moulton

some great door prizes, the fair’s new location at the Best Western Plus was well attended by local residents. While several vouchers and items were given away during the event, the much sought-after main prize was a day of catskiing with Fernie Wilderness Adventures. In order to qualify for the prize, attendees were required to visit all of the tables and obtain stickers after speaking to a representative from each business. Shaun Williams, an employee at the Fernie Alpine Resort, was the lucky winner

We will help" stands out in bold on the poster circulating throughout Sparwood as a local man suffering from lung cancer can no longer face his struggles alone, and his friends are seeking community support for help. Merv Miller, a long time, and well recognized Sparwood resident may be facing his last Christmas, and friends want to show him how much he is cared for. After seeing his health decline, and realizing his financial stress and worry, Miller's friend Angel Hutton, knew she couldn't just stand by and watch. "I am putting together this fundraiser to help him back on his feet, so he can relax for what remaining days he has left and to show him he's not all alone anymore just fading in a apartment, forgotten,” said Hutton. “Merv has been such a big part of the community and has put a smile on many people's faces. Now I feel he deserves to know that he's loved and supported. "Merv is falling behind on rent and has lost a lot of weight and strength, so money, food and clothing, are just a few of the things he needs. Mostly, to know he is not alone, and to see a community that loves and cares about him is really something that would bring

so much light into his life right now.” The fundraiser is set to be held on Friday, December 13 beginning at 6 pm at the Sparwood Legion, where donated beef on a bun will be sold. Due Clause Trio will be performing at 9 pm and high hopes are held that this fundraiser will give Merv the chance to rest. "He's a very simple man who refuses to ask for help; any help given would really make such a big difference to him,” said Hutton. “Also, he mentions how much he misses his family, so if anyone has pictures of them and

Friends are seeking community support for Sparwood longtime local, Merv Miller. Photo by J. Jensen

Looking for Crews? Problem Solved. Call 1-855-678-7833 today for more details.

could put them in a card, he would really appreciate it. I know this time of year is tight for everyone. I hope though, if everyone can give just a little, it will make a huge impact. Even just a simple card, letter or home cooked meal would make Merv smile, and that is all we want to do," said Hutton. For those unable to make it to the fundraiser, a card, letter or donation can be mailed to Merv Miller at PO Box 555 Sparwood, B.C. V0B 2G0. For more information Angel Hutton can be reached via Facebook or by phone or text at 1-780-228-6547.

Arts&Entertainment

THE FREE PRESS Thursday, December 12, 2013

‘Art Tappas’ and wine

Jingle all the way

On Dec. 6, Jodie Parker teaches the fine art of felting at ‘Art Tappas’ a sampling of art night for adults. Three instructors Michelle Senior, Leslie Graham and Jodie Parker offer a sampling of three different art mediums including felting, 2D flat painting, and the pottery wheel. “They have been really fun in the past,” said Senior. “A night for adults is a night out for us too.” For more information contact The Arts Station or the College of the Rockies, Fernie campus. Photo by A. Horton

Husband and wife, Sheila and Van Redecopp entertained the crowd at Mug Shots Jingle Jam put on by the Fernie and District Arts Council on Saturday, Dec. 7. The Hank Raving Sirens will lead this Saturday’s Jingle Jam at the Fernie Heritage Library from 2 - 4 pm. Photo by A. Horton

Musicians arrive by Holiday Train

Festive jazz in Fernie Submitted

The CP Holiday Train made a stop in Sparwood, Fernie and Jaffray on Dec. 10. Musicians played for the crowd on their box car stage decorated with LED Christmas lights. The Holiday Train travels across Canada and the United States raising money, food and awareness for food banks and hunger issues. Major James Hagglund of the Fernie Salvation Army was there on behalf of the Fernie Food Bank to collect the donations of food brought by spectators. The Holiday Train reaches more than 150 communities each year for a combined distance of 10,000 kilometres.

he B3 KINGS are at The Arts Station on Tuesday, Dec. 17. The jazz band was formed in 2002 for a Christmas concert at The Cellar Restaurant / Jazz Club in Vancouver, B.C. The show was such a huge success the concert has become an annual event. The shows sell out well in advance and their concerts are eagerly anticipated every year. In 2004 the B3 KINGS went into the studio to record their first Christmas Album. The funky quartet shared the bill with pianist Bruno Hubert Trio and produced 'A Cellar Live Christmas.' The album has received rave reviews around the world. Jazzreview.com called it “one of the greatest Christmas recordings ever." The quartet is anchored by Canadian vocal sensation Denzal Sinclaire. Sinclaire also doubles as

the drummer for this band. Denzal is known internationally as a jazz star and has had his praises sung by the likes of Diana Krall and Cassandra Wilson. Hammond B3 Organist Chris Gestrin is responsible for making this group as funky as it is with his wicked organ grooves and creative arrangements of the Christmas classics. Saxophonist Cory Weeds is perhaps best known for his work with the great Dr. Lonnie Smith and brings an unbridled enthusiasm to playing the saxophone. Guitarist Bill Coon is as funky as they come but brings with him a wonderful jazz sensibility that really completes the quartet. Have a question or want to know more about this event or any others happening at The Arts Station? Call 250-423-4842 or send an email to info@theartsstation. com.

Photo by T. Hynd

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!

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THE FREE PRESS Thursday, December 12, 2013

www.thefreepress.ca

Elk Valley to see new sustainable thrift store By Jenna Jensen Contributor

his week Elk Valley residents will see the grand opening of the new Elk Valley Thrift Shop Society’s 100 per cent not-for-profit and volunteer run organization committed to sustainability and giving back. The new thrift shop, located in Sparwood aims at reusing and recycling everything from paper office supplies to plastic, and their no dumping policy will mean all items donated will be used for a good cause. "We are quite different from what most people would expect from their usual thrift store experience. Everything is clean, organized and in great condition," says Katrin Taylor, store manager. "We have something for everyone, and carry everything from clothing and shoes to kitchen items and gifts. If clothes come to us with a tear or rip, we fix it; if something is a bit stained, we have an onsite washer and dryer so everything is clean and neat. Absolutely nothing, unless it is completely destroyed or damaged, will be dumped or tossed out. We even have a section for those clothes that are unsalvageable, and they are turned into rags. We will put in the elbow grease to make sure all our items are in great condition." To keep with their no dumping policy, items that do not get on the racks in the thrift shop go to the Mustard Seed Bin, which will go to clothe the homeless in Calgary, or to the Salvation Army/Hospital Auxillary Bin which will then go to Cranbrook. "We believe that everyone can be helped in some way, whether

its locals shopping here and saving money, or some of the clothes that we choose not to shelve are going to programs to help people in other areas or even around the world,” said Taylor. A big steel box will soon be available at Race Trac Gas in Elkford, to be used as a drop off bin, to better accommodate residents. The Elk Valley Thrift Shop Society also offers free pickup of items in the area and hopes that all residents will never have to consider taking their unused clothes to the garbage. "Shoppers are sure to have a great experience with items sorted and sized, clearly priced, and even the kids have a play area to keep entertained while their parents look around. We just want to give people an alternative, and the peace of mind to know that when they

make their donation of clothing or other items, it will go to good use," said Taylor. The grand opening of the Elk Valley Thrift Shop society will take place on Thursday and Friday from 10 am - 4 pm. Regular hours will be Monday - Friday from 10 am - 5 pm and Saturday from 10 am - 2 pm. Currently, only cash is accepted, but a debit machine is a likely possibility for the future. "We welcome everyone in the valley to come check us out, and to keep us in mind when getting rid of old or unused items. We are really proud of this store and our sustainability practices," said Taylor. The Elk Valley Thrift Shop Society is located at 127 Centennial Square. For more information or for item pick up, contact Katrin at 250-425-3884, or contact the store at 250-4250853.

Residents of the Elk Valley will see a great new thrift shop committed to sustainability and giving back, opening in Sparwood.

Big honking head shave in Elkford

By Sara Moulton Free Press Staff

n December 6, the team at Elkford Fire Rescue participated in the 'Big Honking Head Shave' to raise money for cancer research. Fire Chief Bernie Van Tighem and Deputy Chief Corey Kortmeyer were joined by Elov Simmons, Kalon Kliment, Harvey

MacPherson, Neil Hawthorne and Sheldon Thiel in colouring their hair pink before taking the plunge and shaving it all off. The team collectively raised approximately $4500, which was the second highest amount of any team in British Columbia. Van Tighem also achieved the second highest individual amount in the province.

Corey Kortmeyer gets his head shaved for charity by hairdresser Rebecca Robinson from Kuts N’ Kurls. Submitted photo

Photo by J. Jensen

College of the Rockies n Fernie Campus

Health Care Assistant Treat yourself to the finer things Fresh Frozen Seafood from Digby Nova Scotia and the Atlantic Waters available in Fernie and surrounding area

Thank you to all our staff, volunteers, community partners and funders for their support and assistance this year!

Coming to the Fernie Campus February 2014 About the program

n This 27-week program covers the knowledge, skills and attitudes required to provide personal care to individuals in residential care as well as in community settings (home support and assisted living).

n Graduates are eligible for registration with the BC Care Aid and Community Health Worker Registry. n The program is offered full-time from February 3, 2014 - August 8, 2014 (27 weeks).

From, Columbia Basin Alliance for Literacy

n Academic requirements are Grade 10 with a minimum 60% in English 10 and Applied Math 10, or Adult Basic Education Intermediate level certificate with a minimum 60% grade in ENGL 070 and MATH 070, or assessment to an acceptable level.

Train to become a Health Care Assistant - Fernie Campus is currently accepting applications. Call today to get your application package.

To register or for more information contact: College of the Rockies Fernie Campus phone: 250-423-4691 email: fernie@cotr.bc.ca

toll-free 1-866-423-4691 n 250-423-4691 n email: fernie@cotr.bc.ca n www.cotr/fernie

Lobster – meat & tails Dry Fish (Fish Jerky) Scallops Dulce Haddock Salt Cod (Baccala) Cod Atlantic Smoked Salmon

Ocean Perch Alaskan King Crab Legs Digby Clams Snow Crab Meat (Opilio) Bar Clams Black Tiger Shrimp (Jumbo) Tuna Steaks

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Pre-order your live lobsters for Christmas For prices/to order: * Call Shawn 250-423-5551 or Ryan 403-903-8326 * or email coasttocoastseafood@hotmail.com * or facebook: coast to coast seafood Fernie

www.thefreepress.ca

THE FREE PRESS Thursday, December 12, 2013

The Free Press drivewayBC.ca |

Welcome to the driver’s seat

Driving can be challenging no matter where you live in the province at this time of the year. Bob McHugh

Visit the photo gallery at drivewayBC.ca

Winter Weather: Planning to arrive alive

‘‘

’’

Top ten winter road trip tips: 1. A full night’s sleep ahead of a long drive is important. 2. It’s also a good idea to let a friend know when you’re leaving and the time you expect to arrive. 3. Fill the windshield washer bottle with seasonal cleaner and carry an extra container in the trunk. 4. Don’t forget to bring sunglasses – glare from snow can be hard on the eyes. 5. Wear (warm) clothes that allow good movement to steer and operate the foot pedals. 6. Bring water plus non-perishable food supplies on longer trips. 7. An emergency (first aid) kit. 8. Check the weather forecast, road conditions and for road closures on your route before heading out on a long trip. 9. Good winter tires are mandatory on most high-elevation BC highway routes during the winter. 10. If you must drive in bad weather, it’s a good idea to refuel when the tank drops below half full. If the car breaks down or gets stuck in the snow, having engine heat until help arrives could be important. Useful winter driving web sites: drivebc.ca, icbc.com

When to install winter tires? 100% performance level

flake symbol on the sidewall Winter weather has already to indicate that it meets a touched most parts of BC specific winter tire industry and there is a threat of performance test. A series more severe snowstorms in of tragic accidents that the coming days. involved vehicles equipped Driving can be challenging with all-season tires, mainly no matter where you live on the Sea-to-Sky Highway in in the province at this What makes a BC, played a significant role time of the year. The heavy BC winter road trip in the adaptation of this tire rain, fog, wind or slushy uniquely challenging designation. snow that’s common in The traction qualities of a coastal areas can present (and interesting) is winter tire will deteriorate an unpredictable and more as it wears and loses tread dangerous driving situation that it’s possible to experience all (or depth. As a general rule, than sub-zero, crunchy a half-worn winter tire hard-packed snow. Then most) of the above performs at about the same there’s the biggest driving conditions, in a same- level as a good all-season challenge of them all – ice tire in cold, slippery condiin its various road surface day drive. tions. A half worn all-season incarnations. Bob McHugh tire will perform about the What makes a BC winter same as a good summer tire. road trip uniquely challengAnd a half-worn summer tire… well, let’s ing (and interesting) is that it’s possible not go there! to experience all (or most) of the above When road traction conditions are poor, conditions, in a same-day drive. try to avoid asking tires to do more than Even if daytime temperatures are mild, one job at a time – specifically, don’t overnight temperatures typically drop steer and brake at the same time. Start close to or below the freezing mark on a braking sooner and try to get all braking regular basis. done while the vehicle is in a straight line, Your car’s tires are what keep you on the in advance of a turn. Steady and smooth road and out of the ditch. Before you set steering actions work best and use a out today, be it to work or to pay a visit gentle push on the gas pedal as you exit to friends or family across the province, the turn. please check your tires. According to ICBC, about one-in-25 Below seven degrees Celsius, the rubber crashes in BC are caused by wildlife colcompound used in a winter tire (or lisions. Although they tend to be more all-weather tire) remains softer and active in spring and fall, they can be offers better traction qualities than attracted by roadside vegetation and an all-season or summer tire. you need to be extra watchful for A winter or all-weather tire is wildlife during the dusk and dawn. marked with a mountain/snow-

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Question OF THE WEEK:

Do you plan to install winter tires this year? – If not, why not? ?

QUESTION OF THE WEEK!

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Safety Tip: If you’re looking for a new vehicle as a holiday gift, consider looking for some of the latest safety features such as electronic stability control and ABS brakes. For a small price differential, you could get a whole lot more protection.

Find more online at

drivewayBC.ca

THE FREE PRESS Thursday, December 12, 2013

Variable speed limits are used throughout Europe and seem effective.

‘‘

Keith Morgan

’’

SLT MODEL SHOWN

Reader reaction to our posted speed limit poll, conducted with Insights West, was, well, speedy! No sooner had the paper hit the streets, revealing that 37 percent of those polled believe a higher than 100 km/h limit should be posted on our major highways, than the emails began flying. Yours truly expressed some surprise that a majority did not share that opinion and that 55 percent believed speed limits should be left alone. While some readers

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ditions and congestion. It is a recognition that speed alone is not the major cause of road carnage but excessive speed combined with over-driving the weather/road conditions does kill. The provincial government is currently reviewing posted limits and Jack Dubberly believes Victoria should hike them forthwith. “If the roads are better engineered, cars are safer . . . . then why not increase the speeds to that “average comfortable speed” that

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BCGMCDEALERS.CA

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

ON NOW AT YOUR BC GMC DEALERS. BCGMCDEALERS.CA 1-800-GM-DRIVE. GMC is a brand of General Motors of Canada. ‡/†/^/ Offers apply to the lease of a new or demonstrator 2014 GMC Sierra 1500 Crew Cab 4x4 (1SA/G80/B30/I04), 2014 Terrain FWD (3SA), 2014 Acadia FWD (3SA). Freight ($1,600/$1,650), PPSA and PDI included. License, insurance, registration, administration fees and taxes not included. Dealers are free to set individual prices. Offers apply to qualified retail customers in BC GMC Dealer Marketing Association area only. Dealer order or trade may be required. ‡1.5%/0%/1.9% lease APR available for 36/48/48 months on a new or demonstrator 2014 GMC Sierra 4X4 Crew Cab 1SA/2014 Terrain FWD 3SA and 2014 Acadia FWD 3SA O.A.C by GM Financial. Annual kilometre limit of 20,000 km, $0.16 per excess kilometre. Down payment or trade and/or security deposit may be required. Bi-weekly payments may vary depending on down payment/trade. Offer may not be combined with certain other consumer incentives. $3,500 manufacturer to dealer delivery credit has been applied to the purchase, financing and lease offers of 2014 Sierra Crew Cab, and is applicable to retail customers only. † Offer valid only to eligible retail lessees in Canada who have obtained credit approval by GM Financial, have entered into a lease agreement with GM Financial, and who accept delivery from October 11, 2013 through January 2, 2014 of a new eligible 2014 model. General Motors of Canada will pay the first month’s lease payment (inclusive of taxes and any applicable prorate amount normally due at lease delivery as defined on the lease agreement). $0 first month lease payment means no bi-weekly payments will be due in the first month of your lease agreement. After the first month, lessee will be required to make all remaining scheduled payments over the remaining term of the lease agreement. PPSA/RDPRM is not due. Insurance, license, dealer fees and applicable taxes not included. This offer may not be redeemed for cash and may not be combined with certain other consumer incentives available on GM vehicles. General Motors of Canada Limited reserves the right to amend or terminate this offer, in whole or in part, at any time without prior notice. Void where prohibited by law. Additional conditions and limitations apply. See dealer for details. Ôffer only valid from December 10, 2013 to January 2, 2014 (the “Program Period”) to retail customers resident in Canada who own or are currently leasing a Chevrolet HHR, Equinox, Tracker, Uplander, Venture, Astro, Lumina APV, Blazer, Traverse, Trailblazer; Saturn Vue, Relay, Outlook; Pontiac Montana/SV6, Transport, Torrent, Aztek, Sunrunner; Buick Rendezvous, Terraza, Enclave, Rainier; Oldsmobile Silhouette, Bravada; GMC Safari, Jimmy, Terrain, Acadia or Envoy, that has been registered and insured in Canada in the customer’s name for the previous consecutive six months, will receive a $1,000 Holiday Owner Bonus credit towards the lease, purchase or finance of an eligible new 2014 GMC Terrain or Acadia delivered during the program period. Only one (1) credit may be applied per eligible vehicle sale. Offer is transferable to a family member living in the same household (proof of address required). This offer may not be redeemed for cash and may not be combined with certain other consumer incentives available on GM vehicles. The $1,000 credit includes HST/GST/QST/PST as applicable by province. As part of the transaction, dealer will request current vehicle registration and/or insurance to prove ownership for the previous consecutive six months. GMCL reserves the right to amend or terminate this offer, in whole or in part, at any time without prior notice. Void where prohibited by law. Additional conditions and limitations apply. See your GM dealer for details. Ôffer only valid from December 10, 2013 – January 2, 2014 (the “Program Period”) to retail customers resident in Canada who own or are currently leasing (during the Program Period) a GM or competitor pickup truck to receive a $1,000 credit towards the purchase, finance or lease of an eligible new 2014 Model Year Chevrolet Silverado Light Duty, Silverado Heavy Duty, Sierra Light Duty, Sierra Heavy Duty, or Avalanche. Only one (1) credit may be applied per eligible vehicle sale. Offer is transferable to a family member living in the same household (proof of address required). This offer may not be redeemed for cash and may not be combined with certain other consumer incentives available on GM vehicles. The $1,000 credit includes HST/GST/QST/PST as applicable by province. As part of the transaction, dealer will request current vehicle registration and/or insurance to prove ownership. GMCL reserves the right to amend or terminate this offer, in whole or in part, at any time without prior notice. Void where prohibited by law. Additional conditions and limitations apply. See your GM dealer for details. †*Comparison based on 2012 Wards segmentation: Middle/Cross Utility Vehicle and latest competitive data available, and based on the maximum legroom available. Excludes other GM brands. ‡*Cargo and load capacity limited by weight and distribution. Comparison based on 2013 Wards segmentation: Large/Cross Utility Vehicles and latest competitive data available. Excludes other GM vehicles. **The 2-Year Scheduled Lube-Oil-Filter LOF Maintenance Program provides eligible customers in Canada, who have purchased, leased or financed a new eligible 2014 MY Chevrolet, Buick, or GMC vehicle (excluding Spark EV), with an ACDelco oil and filter change, in accordance with the oil life monitoring system and the Owner’s Manual, for 2 years or 40,000 KMs, whichever occurs first, with a limit of four (4) Lube-Oil-Filter services in total, performed at participating GM Dealers. Fluid top offs, inspections, tire rotations, wheel alignments and balancing, etc. are not covered. This offer may not be redeemed for cash and may not be combined with certain other consumer incentives available on GM vehicles. General Motors of Canada Limited reserve the right to amend or terminate this offer, in whole or in part, at any time without prior notice. Void where prohibited by law. Additional conditions and limitations apply. See dealer for details. +The Best Buy Seal is a registered trademark of Consumers Digest Communications, LLC, used under license. ∞For more information visit iihs.org/ratings.

drivewayBC.ca

The need to speed is not universal among BC drivers everyone is travelling at when the police are not looking? “The police can spend more time looking for bad drivers rather than speeding drivers and maybe the general driving public will then respect them more.” Transportation Minister Todd Stone will give BC residents an opportunity to express their views directly in a series of eight regional public forums set to run between now and January 24, 2014.

keith.morgan@drivewaybc.ca

drivewayBC.ca

ahead of General Motors. Most surprising is that the strong sales have established without have a vehicle to compete in the fastest growing segment, the compact SUV. Now, with the introduction of this all-new Jeep Cherokee, Chrysler has something to take on establish players like the Ford Escape, Honda CR-V and Toyota RAV4. Looks Some might not remember the old boxy Cherokee that was sold in the 1990s; it was a very simple design that appealed to diehard Jeep enthusiasts. This new Cherokee is trying to win over new buyers, not just the Jeep faithful. It might look a bit odd at first but when you are in its presence, the design actually grows on you to a pint that it has a futuristic, very modern twist on an iconic nameplate. Inside The Cherokee is covered in soft-touch materials, comfortable seats and a large touch screen in the centre of the dash for connectivity. The base screen is 5-inches but a larger 8.4-inch screen is available on the $29,995 Limited model. In addition, all models get a second 3.5-inch screen imbedded in the instrument cluster that is fully programmable and provides custom readouts.

The back seat isn’t huge but the seats again are contoured nicely and provide good comfort. They also slide forward to elongate the cargo area if larger objects need to be carried. The rest of the dash has a stylish design that is a good combination of the bigger Grand Cherokee and the functional Dodge

THE FREE PRESS Thursday, December 12, 2013

The

A worthy new Jeep Cherokee at long last ‘‘ 2014 Jeep Cherokee The Chrysler group is on a tear these days with month after month of consecutive growth and awards to back it up. Who would have thought a few short years ago that Chrysler, of the Detroit Three, would be in second place in Canada, just slightly behind Ford and well

T:5.81”

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Quote The starting price is the best on the market, the technology is second to none, and the ride is smoother and quieter than the competition and the interior class above.

’’

Zack Spencer

2014 Dodge Grand Caravan Crew Plus shown. Price: $31,790.§

2014 DODGE GRAND CARAVAN CANADA VALUE PACKAGE

19,998 CANADA’S BEST-SELLING MINIVAN FOR MORE THAN 30 YEARS

Journey. Sweeping lines and attention to detail make this a class leader in terms of style and design. Drive Not content to use existing engines and transmission in this new Cherokee, Chrysler is showcasing brand new technology in this compact SUV, providing good fuel economy and value. All trim levels come standard with a 9-speed automatic transmission. That’s right, nine gears, the very first vehicle on the planet to come with this many cogs. Having a chance to drive it with the base 184hp 2.4L 4-cylinder through the canyons outside of Malibu California, I can report that the transmission is so smooth and refined that the driver forgets there is so much at work. The up side is the Cherokee is capable of 9.6.L/100km in the city and 6.4L on the highway. The 4-cylinder engine is a great choice for commuters and the handling is crisp and sure-footed, more like a sedan than an SUV. The optional V6 engine is the first application of the 3.2L V6 Pentastar engine. The bigger 3.6L is used across the Chrysler family but this newly developed, smaller version is wonderful value as it is only $1,300 more to equip it on any Cherokee, from the least expensive

The Lowdown

Power: 2.4L 4-cylinder

with 184hp or 3.2L V6 with 271hp Fill-up: 9.6L/6.4L/100km (city/highway) Sticker price: $23,495$$32,195 FWD model to the most expensive AWD trim. For $1,300, you get 271hp and a lot more grunt for passing and highway runs. This would be the choice if you do a lot of highway driving to the cabin or skiing. The downside is the added weight of the V6 makes it less nimble compared to the 4-cylinder but both are excellent choices. In addition to carving though the mountains, I had a chance to drive over them in the Trailhawk off-road model. This really is the enthusiast version; it had no problem scampering up anything it came across from big boulders, to sand and mud. Verdict The starting price is the best on the market, the technology is second to none, and the ride is smoother and quieter than the competition and the interior class above. The styling does take a while to get used to but it does look better in person. zack.spencer@drivewaybc.ca

•

PURCHASE PRICE INCLUDES $8,100 CONSUMER CASH* AND FREIGHT.

FINANCE FOR

36 MPG AS GOOD AS

HIGHWAY 7.9 L/100 KM HWY

114 4.29

BI-WEEKLY‡

FOR 96 MONTHS WITH $0 DOWN

AVAILABLE FEATURES • 3.6 L Pentastar VVT V6 with 6-speed automatic • Third-row Stow ‘n’ Go® 60/40 split-folding seats TM

with tailgate seating • UconnectTM 130 Multim a Centre • Air conditioning with dual-zone temperature control • Seven air bags • Keyless entry • Premium Interior

GET UP TO

1,500

HOLIDAY BONUS CASH ON MOST MODELS ¥

REAL DEALS. REAL TIME.

Just go to www.dodgeoffers.ca to easily find special offers, incentives and current inventory from your nearest dealer.❖

Wise customers read the fine print: •, *, ‡, § The Be S’elfish Sales 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 3, 2013. Offers subject to change and may be extended without notice. All pricing includes freight ($1,695) and excludes licence, insurance, registration, any dealer administration fees, other dealer charges and other applicable fees and taxes. Dealer order/trade may be necessary. Dealer may sell for less. •$19,998 Purchase Price applies to 2014 Dodge Grand Caravan Canada Value Package (29E) only and includes $8,100 Consumer Cash Discount. *Consumer Cash Discounts are offered on select new 2014 vehicles and are deducted from the negotiated price before taxes. ‡4.29% purchase financing for up to 96 months available on the new 2014 Dodge Grand Caravan Canada Value Package model to qualified customers on approved credit through Royal Bank of Canada, Scotiabank and TD Auto Finance. Example: 2014 Dodge Grand Caravan Canada Value Package with a Purchase Price of $19,998 (including applicable Consumer Cash Discounts) financed at 4.29% over 96 months with $0 down payment equals 208 bi-weekly payments of $114 with a cost of borrowing of $3,644 and a total obligation of $23,642. §2014 Dodge Grand Caravan Crew Plus shown. Price including applicable Consumer Cash Discount. ¥Holiday Bonus Cash of up to $1,500 is available on most new 2013 Dodge Dart, Ram Heavy Duty trucks and FIAT models (excluding the FIAT 500 Pop and Ram Cab & Chassis) and on most new 2014 Chrysler, Jeep, Dodge, Ram and FIAT models, excluding the following: Chrysler 200 LX, Dodge Dart, Grand Caravan CVP, Journey CVP/ SE, Avenger CVP, Viper, Jeep Compass Sport 4x2/4x4, Patriot Sport 4x2/4x4, Cherokee, Ram 1500 Reg Cab trucks, Ram Cab & Chassis, Ram Cargo Van, Ram ProMaster, FIAT 500 Pop, 500C, 500T and Abarth models. Bonus Cash will be deducted from the negotiated price after taxes. See your dealer for complete details. ¤Based on 2014 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. 2014 Dodge Grand Caravan – Hwy: 7.9 L/100 km (36 MPG) and City: 12.2 L/100 km (23 MPG). ❖Real Deals. Real Time. Use your mobile device to build and price any model. TMThe SiriusXM logo is a registered trademark of SiriusXM Satellite Radio Inc. ®Jeep is a registered trademark of Chrysler Group LLC.

drivewayBC.ca

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THE FREE PRESS Thursday, December 12, 2013

AUTO DEALERS

LAST OF THE 2013’S

ONLY 4 LEFT! 2013 CHEVROLET SPARK LS 5 DR

Family pricing on now for all Teck Coal employees. Save thousands off of all new vehicle purchases. Plus Mexico, Hawaii, and Las Vegas Vacations giveaways still on with every purchase!

MSRP $16,995

SALE $14,588

This mint condition vehicle offers best value for this cost. This vehicle is driven 106,000 km and run very smooth. Contact one of our courteous staff member for any question or queries you may have.

C547

SAVE $2,407

5,900

NOW $

2004 Chevrolet Optra LT

This mint condition vehicle offers best value for this cost. This vehicle is driven 141,000 km and run very smooth. Contact one of our courteous staff member for any question or queries you may have.

C540

13104

2013 CHEVROLET CRUZE ECO SEDAN MSRP $24,270

SALE $20,357

7,900

NOW $

2007 Ford Focus SE

This mint condition vehicle offers best value for this cost. This vehicle is driven 115,000 km and run very smooth. Contact one of our courteous staff member for any question or queries you may have.

T1559

SAVE $3,913 2007 Dodge Grand Caravan SE 13107

This mint condition vehicle offers best value for this cost. This vehicle is driven 26,000 km and run very smooth. Contact one of our courteous staff member for any question or queries you may have.

T1582

2013 CHEVROLET MALIBU ECO 1LT SEDAN MSRP $31,890

17,900

NOW $

2009 Jeep Wrangler Sport

SALE $26,039

9,900

NOW $

Diesel, Diesel, Diesel!!

T1496

SAVE $5,851

22,900

NOW $

2005 Dodge Ram 2500 SLT 13114 T1566

This mint condition vehicle offers best value for this cost. This vehicle is driven 52,000 km and run very smooth. Contact one of our courteous staff member for any question or queries you may have.

2013 GMC TERRAIN SLT1 FWD MSRP $38,710

SALE $32,419

SAVE $6,291

23,900

NOW $

2011 Ram 1500 SXT

Wow, lots of extras, A/T tires, fender flares, Cummins diesel engine, almost new condition, don’t wait on this one hurry in today.

T1577

32,900

NOW $

2008 Dodge Ram 3500 SLT 13512

Documentation fee of $199 is not included in the price

T1406

The King of the off road, legendary Jeep Grand Cherokee. Fully loaded and V6 engine asures fantastic fuel economy..

New & Used • Stop in Today! CarProof

Verify

was $31,900

all our preowned inventory

2011 Jeep Grand Cherokee Laredo

26,900

NOW $

*plus $399 doc fee*

Go to www.ferniechrysler.com and check out the inventory 250-423-9288 D.L. # 9819 • Fernie, B.C.

802 Highway #3, Fernie • 250-423-5532 DL23837

THE FREE PRESS Thursday, December 12, 2013

Sports

Riders rake Leafs in 7-2 thumping

The Fernie Ghostriders celebrate after their victory against the Nelson Leafs. By Sara Moulton Free Press Staff

Standings as of December 11, 2013 DIVISION: Kootenay Conference: Eddie Mountain

Team

Creston Valley Thunder Cats Fernie Ghostriders Kimberley Dynamiters Columbia Valley Rockies Golden Rockets

GP W L T OTL Pts 27 26 29 32 30

18 13 14 9 8

9 10 14 17 19

0 0 1 3 0

0 3 0 3 3

36 29 29 24 19

DIVISION: Kootenay Conference: Neil Murdoch

Team

Nelson Leafs Beaver Valley Nitehawks Castlegar Rebels Grand Forks Border Bruins Spokane Braves

GP W L T OTL Pts 29 29 30 27 31

22 20 15 10 10

3 6 11 13 18

1 1 1 2 0

3 2 3 2 3

48 43 34 24 23

DIVISION: Okanagan/Shuswap Conference: Doug Birks

Team

Kamloops Storm 100 Mile House Wranglers Chase Heat Sicamous Eagles Revelstoke Grizzlies

GP W L T OTL Pts 31 32 30 28 30

25 16 15 12 7

5 12 13 14 20

0 0 0 0 0

1 4 2 2 3

51 36 32 26 17

DIVISION: Okanagan/Shuswap Conference: Okanagan

Team

Kelowna Chiefs Osoyoos Coyotes North Okanagan Knights Summerland Steam Princeton Posse

Free Press of the

GP W L T OTL Pts 31 30 30 28 28

20 17 16 14 8

8 13 13 12 17

0 0 0 1 0

3 0 1 1 3

43 34 33 30 19

he Fernie Ghostriders fought back from their previous week’s slump to win two games in a row, including thrashing the Nelson Leafs 7-2 on Friday, December 6. The Riders worked hard during their midweek road game in Golden on Wednesday, December 4, with the score tied at 2-all at the end of the third period. As the game went into overtime for their third match in a row, Aaron Neufeld (assisted by Spencer Bender) scored the winning goal for the Ghostriders. Back in Fernie, fans were excited at the prospect of a doubleheader weekend at home. However, the exceptionally cold weather affecting

Photo by S. Moulton

the region caused the Creston Valley Thunder Cats to cancel their trip to Fernie on Saturday due to frozen brakes on their bus. The unexpected night off didn’t seem to faze the Riders, who were still in high spirits after their win against Nelson the night before. The Ghostriders showed their skill and strength right from the beginning of Friday’s match, but it was rookie Kale Johnston who really shined when he scored his first hat trick in his junior career. Jon Thompson, Spencer Bender, Kurtis Bond and team captain Ben Primeau all added to the scoreboard as the Leafs failed to match the energy of the home team. By the end of the first period, the Riders had almost as many shots on goal as Nelson achieved

Holly Kichler

Holly is a Grade five student at Isabella Dicken Elementary School (IDES). She has just completed her third marathon. Holly is a diabetic, but nothing stops this girl from running!

for the entire game. The extra practise since the Ghostriders previous defeats seems to be paying off, with only one goal out of four being conceded while short handed this week. Johnston has been consistent in both goals and assists during his first season with the Ghostriders, but despite scoring three goals in the game against Nelson he was quick to acknowledge his teammates. “I’m playing on an amazing line with our captain (Primeau) and an assistant captain (Burgess); they’ve been giving me some great options and tonight, scoring three goals, I can only really take credit for one of them.” The team has also been appreciating the support of the evergrowing crowds as the winter season brings a new wave of seasonal residents to the Valley. “It feels amazing,” said Johnston. “Growing up in a small town, in Powell River, we get our parents coming to our games but that’s about it. Coming into this atmosphere just makes you want to excel.” With the Riders now placed second in their division,

the upcoming weeks should bring some great hockey to the Fernie Memorial Arena. The next home game will be held on Saturday, December 14 at 7:30 pm against the Castlegar Rebels, and will feature

the annual Teddy Bear Toss. Bring along a teddy, toque or mitts to throw onto the ice when the Ghostriders score their first goal of the night.

Curling results Submitted

ast week of round robin play in Elk Valley Superleague Curling saw Elk Valley Bighorn Outfitters only needing four ends to defeat Sparwood Esso 9 - 3. Rocky Mountain Driver Training handed Coal Valley Motor Products their

first loss of the season 10 - 5. A&B Liquor Store with a couple big ends early to defeat Falkin’s Insurance 9 5 and Kal Tire over Alpine Lumber 7 - 2. Championship round is next Monday with Coal Valley Motor Products facing Falkin’s Insurance to decide this years championship.

STANDINGS as of December 10, 2013

PTS

Coal Valley Motor Products

Falkins Insurance

EV Bighorn Outfitters

Kal Tire

Alpine Lumber

A&B Liquor Store

Rocky Mountain Dr Tr

Sparwood Esso

Upcoming Home Game vs Game Night Sponsor:

Sponsored by

Best Western

Fernie Mountain Lodge

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

CALL US FOR ROOM SPECIALS

Dr. A.M. Kahane

Saturday, December 14 7:30 pm * Fernie Memorial Arena

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THE FREE PRESS Thursday, December 12, 2013

The Fernie Academy Fernie Atoms Team Black figure skaters wow Tournament Champions! their classmates

The Fernie Atoms Team Black went undefeated during their home tournament on the weekend of Nov. 30-Dec. 1. Back row: Maia Coccollio, Alexander Johnson. Second row: Conner Will, AJ Bernemann, Rhys Baker, James Coccollio, Tom Medlicott, Liam Samycia. Third row: Cole Hutchinson, Elliot Burt, Bo Hutchinson, Remy Gris. Goalies: Tyler Palmer, Drayton Desjardins Photo by Caira Hutchinson The Fernie Academy figure skating students. By India Stewart Submitted

he Fernie Academy figure skating students gave an amazing show on the ice on the afternoon of November 19, as they participated in a competition simulation, also known as ‘sims’. Six students from grades three to 10 showed off their impressive skill, complimented with beautiful skating costumes and fitting musical themes for each girl. Some of The Fernie Academy classes were lucky enough to watch the simulations, and were a great audience.

Happy New Year

Submitted photo

Among the skaters were Olivia Sombrowski from Grade three, as well as Emma Nieuwesteeg, Emma Morgan, and Ava Hozjan from Grade seven. Representing our high school were Hunter Bezak and Anna Koltai from grade nine and 10. Over a short period of time, all skaters demonstrated hard work, determination, and skill in an amazing sequence of axles and backspins galore. The grade nine class would like to offer their congratulations on the great performance, and we wish them luck in their future competitions!

Join us at the Lamplighter with

‘Dare to Dream’ Submitted

he Fernie Nordic Society fundraiser was held this past weekend with guest speaker Beckie Scott. Approximately 80 people were in attendance for Beckie’s inspirational speech, Dare to Dream, about her road to becoming an Olympic medalist. In addition to a basket of local items donated for Beckie (such as Robertson Estate vinegar, Home spun soap and Carosella fudge) artist Kerri Holmes presented one of her honey pots and honey from Elk Valley Apiaries. There were over 40 items in the silent auction, a brown bag draw and door prizes all donated by local businesses including an original painting by Angela Morgan. Locals had a chance to speak with Beckie after her speech and have their photo taken, get autographs and hold her gold and silver medals. The winner of a two night, two for one airfare to Vegas from Fernie Chrysler was Olympian Beckie Scott pictured with Fernie Nordic Society president Megan Lohmann.Photo by Tim Nakoneczny Kerri Holmes.

Sparwood Towing

Mark Lorenz

Back by popular demand

24 Hours

December 31, 2013 Prime rib and salmon dinner $24.95 per person From 6:00 pm to 9:30 pm. Reserve ahead and save your seat. Champagne, appies and favours at midnight. Designated drivers available. Call 250-865-4320

Lamplighter Pub & Grill in Elkford 2200 Balmer Drive

New Years Day Champagne Breakfast 11:00 am to 3:00 pm The Staff and Management wishes Everyone a Safe and Happy Holiday!

“Proudly Celebrating 30 Years In Business” Watch this ad for dates on upcoming open houses!

Towing / Recovery / Storage Glen & Jeanette Leyden

(250) 425 2721 / 866 425 2721 Fast service at competitive rates, serving all emergency road service clubs. 155 Ind. Rd 3 Box 68 Sparwood, BC

Did You Know? Alcohol and Pregnancy

There is no known safe amount of alcohol to consume during pregnancy, but we do know this for sure: using alcohol and other drugs during pregnancy can cause babies to have learning, behaviour, or health problems as they grow up. Drugs (including alcohol, medication, and cigarettes) have the ability to pass from you into the baby¹s bloodstream. Even though binge drinking is linked to greater risk, any alcohol consumption poses a risk to an unborn child. Newborns don’t always show the effects caused by alcohol and other drugs right away. It can take a few years before you see the problems. The effects of drinking are different for every woman and her baby therefore comparing yourself to your friends is not an accurate indicator. Other factors like eating habits, living conditions and using other drugs (including tobacco) play a role. Health professionals agree it is best not to drink, smoke, or use any drugs at all during pregnancy. Even for women who drink heavily and stop, they are more likely to have a healthy baby than those who don’t. Call a community health nurse, midwife, counsellor, or doctor you trust for more information or support. Make wise choices this winter and keep your family safe! Canadian Center for Substance Abuse: Give and Take A booklet for pregnant women about alcohol and other drugs. Retrieved from: www.ccsa.com. East Kootenay Addiction Services Society has sponsored this column. The intent of this column is to provide information and to encourage healthy choices. Free, confidential services are available to anyone dealing with their own or someone else’s substance addiction or misuse. For more information contact 250-423-4423, 1-800-644-6144 or visit www.ekass.com

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THE FREE PRESS Thursday, December 12, 2013

Seniors enjoy Christmas dinner and entertainment

On December 4, a Christmas dinner was held at the Tom Uphill Manor with invited guests coming from Trinity Lodge, New Horizons, Veneto and Tom Uphill Manor. The dinner was organized by Fernie Family Housing and guests enjoyed not only a delicious dinner of ham, turkey and all the fixings with many different types of desserts but also prizes and music as part of the festivities after dinner. Photos by Mary Giuliano

Business Card Directory

SAVE Bellevue THE HST ! VET CLINIC

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

1-403-563-5400 Toll Free:1-866-563-5400 Mainstreet, Bellevue, Alberta

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

OVER 10 YEARS EXPERIENCE. After hours appointments available. No charge consultation.

250-423-7236 302A 2nd Avenue, Fernie, BC V0B 1M0

Coalminer’s Gallery

Call for a free estimate today!

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

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 • Acrylic Tub Liners, Wall Surrounds & Showers

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

• Afﬁdavits • Wills

& Picture Framing Ltd.

• Contracts

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

• Leases • Real Estate • Business Transfers

Phone: 1-888-649-5577

• Mobile Homes

FREE DELIVERY IN THE ELK VALLEY

Dr. Karley Denoon, ND NATUROPATHIC DOCTOR Family focused primary care

DrDenoon.ca OFFICE: 571B (UPSTAIRS) 2ND AVENUE, FERNIE BC PHONE: 250-531-0154

FAX: 1-800-858-8623

Classes Work Space Paper Crafting Mini Albums Home Decor

ROCK

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

Wilson’s Drill & Blast Service Call George- 250-423-7040 Cell- 250-946-6222

Pampered Paws Boarding Kennel

25% off

for October and November

Your Dog is Our Priority

Big or Small We Cuddle Them All!

Trit-Trot Farms PHONE: (250)423-5805 9839 ELK STREET

ALL SIZES AVAILABLE!

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

Fax: (250) 425-2204 Toll Free: 1-800-668-7729 Email: marian@gravellenotary.com

• Mortgages

from the historic Morrisey Quarry

Business: (250) 425-2114

FERNIE BOTTLE DEPOT Tuesday - Saturday 10am-5pm 1291 Ridgemont Ave. Phone: 250-423-2009

We take electronics and ensure they are recycled safely.

DJ Services

covering the Elk Valley • Weddings • Parties • Events Jacob MacDonald 250-430-7781 Hosmer74@gmail.com

THE FREE PRESS Thursday, December 12, 2013

Dear Santa, Plees can I hav a iPad for Christmas? Plees Santa and it is bloo. Plees Santa. Merry Christmas. From Elek Dear Santa, I want a Xbox for Christmas. How are you doing? Love, Cedar Dear Santa, I hope your reindeer are doing very good. May I please have a dog for Christmas? Love, Saphira Dear Santa, If you go to my house, can you eat my cookies? But for Christmas can you give me a Lego mine craft? I like you Santa. From Amos Dear Santa, This year I don’t need anything. Could you please deliver them to poor kids that don’t have much? Rudolf, I’m sure you make it magic. I’m sure you and yourselves are good. Love, Sarah Hello Santa, I hope you’re good and I hope your reindeer are not sick. What I want for Christmas is eaarings and a crown and a dress. Love, Imogen Dear Santa, I think you are still tired from last Christmas. Here’s my list: an iPod touch, Star Wars lego, Jaba’s ship, barg and a ferby please. I hope you have a good flite. From Cohen

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The Fernie Academy Grade 1 – Mrs. Baughan

Dear Santa, I hope that you have a Merry Christmas. For Christmas I would like playmobile set. From Claire Dear Santa, Haf a safe trip. I woob lake a panda. I hoap you lake are cookies. I hoap you haf a Merry Christmas. From Chloe Dear Santa, I hope you have a good Chrismis. All I want for Chrismis is a playmobile sets. I will wish you a Mary Chrismis. Love, Emma Dear Santa, I hop your rander are ready for thar flite. I think you shod come throo the door. Can I ples hav a few soprises? Love, Oliver Dear Santa, I hope you are ready for the flite and all I would like for rite now is a minee wite board. Sincerely from Lachlan Dear Santa, I’m looking forward to your presents. I hope Rudolf ’s nose is bright. All I want for Christmas is a clock. I hope you have a safe flight. Love, Jack Dear Santa, I hav bin good. Can I pleas hav a Xbox 360? Santa, how are your elfs? Are they good? From Sawyer Dear Santa, I hope you like my cookies. May I plees have a Barbie? Have a merry little Christmas with the elfs. From Himari

Dear Santa, I have bin good. Can you give me Grand Theft Auto 5 for kids? From Shane

Dear Santa, Santa, how are yor reindeer? Dear Santa Claus, can I have a gun please? Dear Santa, can I have two cars? Dear Santa, can I have two Transformers? Love, Nathan

Dear Rudolf, I hope you are not being bullied. How are your friends? From Nicholas

Dear Santa, I was very good. I want a toy Sackboy and a pool and Rudolf. Love, Arvo

Dear Santa, Is your sled rustee or cleen? I wont a the lego starship. I hoap your reindeers are ready to fly. Love, Jeff

Dear Santa, I hope you are feeling well. I would like glass slippers. Love, Michal

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THE FREE PRESS Thursday, December 12, 2013

IDES

Kindergarten – Ms. Spergel

Dear Santa, How are things up North? Please can you send present to the kids in the Philippines? Thank you! Your Friend, Stella xoxo Dear Santa, I love Santa! Can you bring my dad a brand new snowmobile? Please and thank you. James Dear Santa, Can your reindeer come to my house? I want a kitty that has a pink ribbon please. I love your coat! Love, Taylor Dear Santa, I can’t wait to see you! Can I please have a Bay Man? I love you! Your friend, Jarren Dear Santa, Merry Christmas! Can you bring Nest and me a Lego set? A fire one! Have fun! Your friend, Winston Dear Santa, Thank you for your present. Can you make my throat better? I love you! Love, Jorja

Dear Santa, How are you, Santa? Can you give someone who is sick a card? You’re the best! give Nova some love for me? You look Your friend, Mishka good in red! Love, Gwen Dear Santa, Thank you for Dear Santa, the present off my How is your reindeer doing? Can I birthday list. Can please have a Zooma? It’s a toy dog! I I have a Ninja Turtle love your beard. thingy? Goodbye! Love, Abbi Your friend, Arlo Dear Santa, Dear Santa, Is it cold at the North Pole? Can How is Mrs. Clause? Can you please you bring a new blow dryer to my friend Leela? I love you! bring my dad a toy ship? I like you! Your friend, Matthias Your friend, Chloe

Dear Santa, Dear Santa, Do penguins live at the North Pole? How are you doing? Can I have a Trespass dump Can you get me a toy maker? It makes truck please? You are so different kinds of treats! Thank you Santa! awesome! Love, Haedyn Your friend, Joe Dear Santa, How are you feeling? This year can I have a big monster truck? I love Santa. Your friend, Austin Dear Santa, I love Santa! Can I have a racecar? Thank you! Your friend, Jaxon

Dear Santa, Happy Christmas! Can you tell Grampi I love him? Please help your Dear Santa, elves. How are the reindeer feeling? Can you Love, Charlotte

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DENTISTRY COST LESS SOUTH OF THE BORDER! with

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Man still missing from Pincher Creek By Joni MacFarlane Editor Crowsnest Pass Free Press

incher Creek RCMP said the ground search for missing 22-yearold Taylor Elliott has been called off. On Friday, Dec. 6, police said that until the ground cover changes or until further clues come up, the search has come to

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an end. Elliott disappeared on foot without a trace in the early morning hours of Sunday, Dec. 1 just as a snow storm warning enveloped southern Alberta. Since then, the area has been plagued with extreme temperatures and severe wind with blowing snow. Pincher Creek Search and Rescue were joined by members from the Calgary Search and Rescue team, Southeastern Alberta Search and Rescue from Medicine Hat and Lethbridge Area Search and Rescue. On Friday, crews conducted grid searches on foot in areas north and west of Pincher Creek. RCMP police dogs were also called in to

Taylor Elliot has been missing since December 1, 2013. Submitted photo

assist in the search as well as Alberta's RCMP helicopter.

While the Pincher Creek RCMP have suspended the ground

search, family and friends are still out looking for him. Their search effort is based at the Pincher Creek Golf Course Club House. A website and Facebook page have been started to help raise awareness and assist with the search. Elliott is described as 6-feet tall weighing 190 pounds with dark hair and a full beard. He was last seen wearing a tan Carhartt jacket, blue jeans, a dark hoodie and carrying a medium-sized grey camouflaged backpack and a .270 rifle. Anyone with information on Elliott's whereabouts is asked to call the RCMP Pincher Creek detachment at 403-6276000.

Tips for the East Kootenay Outdoor Enthusiasts

Fernie Rotary Weekly Meetings Wednesdays at 12:00 Noon at the

Submitted

y being a British Columbia resident an individual receives increased privileges under the Wildlife Act, including significantly reduced licence fees, and the ability to hunt without a guide. Section 1(1) of the Wildlife Act defines a resident of British Columbia as being a person who is a Canadian citizen or permanent resident

Park Place Lodge 742 Highway 3 • Fernie

Welcome Home!

Early Holiday Deadlines The following deadlines will be in effect during the holiday season. WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 18 12:00 pm for the December 26th edition. FRIDAY, DECEMBER 27 12:00 pm for the January 2nd edition.

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 Thursday, January 2nd.

Est. 1898

o, speaking of parent trips…my husband and I went on one last weekend. We finally managed Shelby Cain to co-ordinate grandparents and friends and a place to stay with an awesome concert. So we went. Three other couples joined us, leaving a total of eleven kids with four sets of very brave, busy grandparents. It was awesome. During the drive I sat quietly, facing forward, and listened to music from anyone but Raffi. Normally I have to ice my neck after a road trip from constantly turning around and handing out a plethora of snacks. I swear they eat the entire time the car is in motion. Which is probably why the inside of our vehicle looks like Bourbon Street after two weeks of Mardi Gras. We all arrived at our destination and unloaded our tiny bags of required essentials. No pack-n-plays, booster seats, or diaper bags in site. My husband and I actually carried in our belongings in ONE TRIP. We kicked off the night with a toast to a kid-free experience. We then proceeded to talk about our kids, kids in general, and everything kid-related for the next three hours. We compared notes. Watched home videos. Divulged strategies for everything from bed-wetting to

The Parent Trip

The staff at The Free Press would like to wish everyone happy holidays and all the best in 2014!

of Canada whose only or primary residence is in British Columbia and has resided in British Columbia for six of the 12 months prior to applying for a licence. If a person is not a Canadian citizen or permanent resident of Canada, however, their only primary residence is in British Columbia, they must have resided in British Columbia for the entire 12 months immediately prior to applying

for a licence. The Conservation Officer Service wishes to remind the public that if they witness or become aware of an environmental or fish and wildlife related infraction, to please report it by calling 1-877952-7277 (RAPP). Callers may remain anonymous if they wish and they may be eligible for a reward.

stealthy tooth-fairy delivery methods. There was a lot of discussion about changing the subject to incorporate the other events occurring in our busy lives. But somehow, it always circled back to the kids. I think I know why. We were all friends long before facing the mind-blowing task of child rearing. We have all experienced the dark moments when we feel completely overwhelmed and over our heads, but have managed to come out the other side. We are the product of radical change. Big burly men who never missed a powder day and were too cool to hold their wives purses for the briefest of moments have found themselves dressed head to toe in princess garb pushing pink strollers down the street. Women who traded in two hundred dollar haircuts and crisp business suits for ponytails and Lululemon. Having kids is profoundly life altering. Discussing this fact with your peers, people who used to be cool as cucumbers suddenly freaking out over uneaten broccoli and shrieking from the Timbits soccer sideline, is incredibly therapeutic. It feels so good to realize we’re all in the same sinking ship…and we wouldn’t change a thing. And after a few more toasts that night we went from discussing the kids to acting like them, complete with dance-offs, snow-ball fights, and giggling fits. In the morning we rushed through breakfast and got on the road. We all missed our kids. But we can’t wait to do it again next year.

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The Free Press Thursday, December 12, 2013

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Pascuzzi, Felix Michael born August 25, 1924 in Fernie B.C. passed away peacefully on December 5, 2013 with family at his side. Survived by his loving wife Margaret and her family, his brothers Albert and Louie (predeceased), his children Jean, Greta-Lynn, Theresa, Michele, Albert, Cindy and his many grandchildren and great grandchildren.

I would like to thank everyone, both family and friends, who helped make the loss of my daughter, Lexine Gay Phillips, a sad and difficult time, easier for me. Thank you to the hard working ladies who prepared and served the traditional feast. Thank you also to Mary Richardson for her kind words of comfort. To all the caregivers, both family and friends, who helped make Lexine’s last days, easier for her. Thank you. Thanks also to all the friends and family who came to the funeral, even though the roads were treacherous. Last but not least, thanks to everyone for the cards and kind words of comfort. A special thank you to my brother Wayne and sister-inlaw Theresa Smith, who were, and are always there, when I need them. Florence Phillips

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Known as the barber on Cook Street, Felix touched a great many people. His infectious smile and calm demeanour could be felt in the coffee shops he visited on his daily walks. Felix lived a full life, his memory will mend our hearts. No service at Felix’s request. In lieu of flowers donations can be made to the Parkinson’s Foundation.

Place of Worship

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Place of Worship

ELK VALLEY CHURCH SERVICES ST. MICHAEL’S PARISH 741 2nd Ave., Fernie

WELCOMES YOU Sunday Meeting Morning Services

11:00 am

Corps Officers: .. Majors James & Gwen Hagglund

Fernie Office 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 KNOX

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Advertisers are reminded that Provincial legislation forbids the publication of any advertisement which discriminates against any person because of race, religion, sex, colour, nationality, ancestry or place of origin, or age, unless the condition is justified by a bona/fide requirement for the work involved.

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(formerly Fernie Baptist Church)

1622 10th Avenue, Fernie 250-423-4112 www.mountainsidechurch.ca Sunday Services 9:00 am & 10:45 am Christmas Eve Service 6:00 pm & 7:30 pm Contact Pastor Shawn Barden shawnbarden@gmail.com

24/7 • anonymous • conﬁdential • in your language

Centennial Square, Sparwood

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

TRINITY LUTHERAN CHURCH 691 4th Avenue, Fernie Sunday Worship...1:30 pm Pastor Fraser Coltman

cell 250-417-5016 Pastor David Morton cell 250-417-5017 or 1-866-426-7564

SPARWOOD CHRISTIAN CENTRE 436 Pine Avenue Sparwood BC V0B 2G0

TRINITY PENTECOSTAL TABERNACLE 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 Office 250-423-4114 Res. 250-423-4102

HOLY FAMILY PARISH Catholic Church 521 4th Avenue, Fernie

Parish Office 250-423-6127 Masses:

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

250-425-7787 Affiliated with the Pentecostal Assemblies of Canada (PAOC) Services: Sunday 10:30 am Wednesday Bible Study: 6:47 pm Everyone Welcome Pastor: Rev. R.G. (Ross) Powell

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

Elk Valley Thrift Shop Society GRAND OPENING

December 12 and 13 10am - 5pm Door prizes, coffee, baking, and awesome deals Located beside the New to You in Centennial Square Come support Sparwood's newest NON-PROFIT thrift shop

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IT WILL GO ON LINE! Obituaries

NICKERSON: SEPTEMBER 10, 1926 NOVEMBER 27, 2013 A loving mother, mother-in-law, grandma and great-grandma, Phyllis Marjorie Kathleen passed away into the loving arms of her husband Ron on November 27, 2013 with her loving family by her side at the Elk Valley Hospital in Fernie, BC. Phyllis was born in Woods Harbour, NS to parents, Garfield and Kathleen Pierce. She was one of 8 children. After the war ended, Phyllis met her soldier Ron at the medical clinic where she worked. Ron and Phyllis were married on August 30, 1947. In 1948 with their firstborn, Charles, they left the Maritimes for Robson, BC. While Ron worked, Phyllis kept the house and together they welcomed the arrival of 7 more children. During their time in Robson, Phyllis enjoyed belonging to the Robson Women’s Institute and the Pythian Sisters. The family enjoyed many camping trips in the West Kootenay’s during the summer. Following Ron’s retirement in 1990, they moved to Sparwood where Phyllis enjoyed being a part of the Eagles organization. Ron and Phyllis enjoyed many years of camping with friends and family at Rock Lake and Driftwood Bay. Phyllis is survived by 2 sons: Charlie (Lodie) Nickerson, and Robert (Darlene) Nickerson, both of Sparwood BC, 5 daughters: Pam Percival (Bob Baitley) of Jaffray, BC, Pat (Joe) Butala of Cranbrook, BC, Helen (Rick) Bush, Kerri (Ken) Neufeld, and Trudy (Dave) Corney all of Okotoks, AB, and Sherry (Steve) Farnum of Trail BC, 16 grandchildren, 15 great grandchildren, numerous nieces and nephews in Nova Scotia and her sister-in-law Thelda Rindler of Rossland BC. She was predeceased by her parents, her 7 siblings: Odessa, Flossie, Vivian, Erna, Douglas, Mike and Pauline, her sonin-law Dennis Percival and brother-in-law Con Rindler. There will be no formal service by Phyllis’s request. Cremation has taken place. Donations may be made to the Heart & Stroke Foundation or to the Multiple Sclerosis Society. The family would like to thank Dr. S. Soetaert and Dr. A. Bernard, the caring staff of the Cranbrook & Elk Valley Hospitals, Cherished Memories Funeral Services, and friends and neighbours for their love and support, but most of all, Thanks Mom for All the Great Memories! We love you, now it is time for you to rest with Dad. 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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SUBWAY IN FERNIE is now accepting applications for Food Counter Attendants and Food Service Supervisors. Food Counter Attendants Good communication skills required. Terms of employment: permanent, full-time, shift, weekend, day, evening. Salary:$10.25/hr, 35 hrs/week. Education: some high school. Experience: will train. Duties: take customer orders; prepare, heat and finish simple food items; serve customers at counters; use manual and electrical appliances to clean, peel, slice and trim foodstuffs; portion and wrap foods; package take-out food; stock refrigerators; keep records of the quantities of food used; remove kitchen garbage and trash; sweep and mop floors. Food Service Supervisors Must be customer service oriented. Good communication skills required. Terms of employment: permanent, full-time, shift, weekend, day, evening. Salary: $13.45/hr, 35 hrs/week, Education: completion of high school. Experience: 3-5 years work experience in the Food Service Industry OR 1 year as a Food Service Supervisor. Good work references required. Duties/SpeciďŹ c Skills: supervise and coordinate activities of staff who prepare and portion food; establish work schedule, estimate and order ingredients and supplies; ensure food service and quality control; maintain records of stock, repairs, sales and wastage; prepare and submit reports; establish methods to meet work schedules; train staff in job duties, sanitation and safety procedures. How to apply: By Mail: Subway, P.O. Box 2728, Fernie, BC V0B 1M0; In Person: 7am-10pm, 441 Highway #3, Fernie, BC or By

JOURNEYMAN AUTOMOTIVE Service Technician(s) in Hanna Alberta. Hanna Chrysler Ltd. offers competitive wages from $32/hour, negotiable depending on experience. Bright, modern shop. Full-time permanent with benefits. Friendly town just 2 hours from major urban centres. Website: hannachrysler.ca. Fax 403-854-2845; Email: chrysler@telusplanet.net.

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Fernie Exchange New & Used & Pawnbrokers

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t 8F HJWF MPBOT PO QBXOBCMF JUFNT XL UP XLT t

2009 ESCAPE XLT 4X4

NOW! 16,888* $

STK# UT0622

Call sales at 250-423-9211

*Plus $399 doc + taxes DLR 30507

Local Coin Collector Buying Collections, Olympic Gold & Silver Coins etc 778-281-0030

*Plus $399 doc + taxes DLR 30507

Misc. for Sale

2 Bdrm:$850 (& up)-month

2VJFU t $PNGPSUBCMF t "GGPSEBCMF

Walking Distance to Mall

Sporting Goods

r )PU XBUFS JODMVEFE

Rentals

Hot Water Included

2010 FORD RANGER SUPER CAB SPORT 4X4

PINEWAY COURT r "GGPSEBCMF

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

Heavy Duty Machinery

Sparwood, B.C.

r $MPTF UP EPXOUPXO

STK# UT0605

STK# UT0593

Call sales at 250-423-9211

2010 F150 LARIAT 4X4 SUPERCREW

Misc. for Sale

1501-9th Ave. 250-423-6625

Old fashioned clothes closet, solid wood $249; 5 piece Lionel train set (as new) 1983 Pennsylvania flyer $359; youth saddle tooled leather $299; turntables $79-$149; antique coin sorter USA $279, used lariats $10 ea; dressers $99-$979, old treadle Singer sew machine $179, 4 drawer desk $49, 4 filing cabinets, 4 drawer $49 ea; long sled Yankee clipper $159; free-standing natural gas fireplace $350; good selection Lois Lâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Armour pocket books $1 ea; Star Trek pocket books $2.50 ea; good selection fridges $250-$495, pine china cabinet $249; large oak china cabinet $475; 2 beer signs, 1 Olympia $125, 1 Burgermeister $225; area rug 6X9 (new) $49, 5 Gibson guitars (antique) 70â&#x20AC;&#x2122;s, 2 Martinâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 000XL and 1960-08; exercise bike (new) $225; wood & coal stove Enterprise good condition, warming oven, water reservoir $695; wood & coal heater Canadian made 30â&#x20AC;&#x2122;s, 40â&#x20AC;&#x2122;s $495, good selection of guitars, electric & acoustic; musical instruments, accessories, pictures 50% off, lots of antiques, DVDs, CDs. Come in and take a look.

Rentals

Transportation

Apt/Condo for Rent

Homes for Rent

Auto Financing

New Condos in Sparwood Heights 2 bedroom, 2 bathrooms in new complex comes with stainless steel fridge, stove, dishwasher, microwave and in suite washer and dryer. Building comes with elevator, onsite storage plus much more. No smoking or pets. $1150.00 to $1250.00 per month. Please call Rick @ 250-4255432 or Erin @ 250-425-7711 references required.

2-bdrm 14 wide mobile in Sparwood, newly renovated, ns, np. Call for info, (778)5180019

Rentals

Apartment Units

Call sales at 250-423-9211

Live in scenic & peaceful Elkford

ALDERWOOD PLACE Comfortable apartment units

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

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

1-250-865-7676 Condos in Sparwood Heights Well-kept condo for rent in Sparwood Heights: 411A Carbanado - 2 bedroom, 1 bathroom condo that includes fridge and stove. $850.00 per month. No pets or smoking. References required. 205 Ponderosa: FULLY FURNISHED & DECORATED 2 bedrooms, 1 bathroom condo ready to be moved into just bring your clothes. Comes with all appliances including an in suite washer and dryer $1200.00 a month. No smoking or pets. References required. Please call Rick @ 250-4255432 or Erin @ 250-425-7711

Duplex / 4 Plex Duplex Lower Sparwood 418A Mountain Ash - 3 bedroom, 1 bathroom duplex. Includes fridge and stove. Large fenced yard and shed. $1000.00 per month. References required 429B Engelman - 3 bedroom, 1 bath, larger fenced yard, deck and garage. $1,000.00 per month. Please call Rick @ 250-4255432 or Erin @ 250-425-7711 references required

Misc for Rent Furnished & unfurnished properties available for rent in Sparwood & Elkford. Call Lindsay 250-425-1180 or

House for sale/rent. 3-bdrm newer log house, executive style, 2-1/2 bath, shop, garage, near school, waterfront on Sand Creek in Jaffray. Propertyguys.com #266331 (250)429-3001 SPARWOOD, 2-storey, 3bdrm townhouse for rent w/full basement, close to school & rec centre. (250)425-4448 primeprop@mymts.net

SPARWOOD, ELKFORD & FERNIE - Furnished & unfurnished rentals available. Contact Tammie Davy at 250-425-2968 or apply on line: elkvalleylistings.ca.

Modular Homes Mobile Down Town Sparwood 373 Red Cedar - Clean 4 bedroom, 1 bath mobile close to the Rec Centre and walking distance to all the stores. Includes a fridge, stove and washing machine. Has a large porch, oversized paved driveway, garage and shed for $850.00 a month. Please call Rick @ 250-4255432 or Erin @ 250-425-7711 Mobiles in Spardell MPH 2 Spardell - 2 bedroom, 1 bath mobile reasonable rent $650.00 per month 13 Spardell - Clean 2 bedroom, 1 bathroom mobile home. $650.00 per month including pad rent 23 Spardell - 2 bedroom, 1 bath mobile for $500.00 per month 87 Spardell - 2 bedroom, 2 bathroom mobile home. Includes pad rent for $650.00 a month. Please call Rick @ 250-4255432 or Erin @ 250-425-7711

Apt/Condo for Rent

1 Unit Available $560.00 Month

(Independant Living for Seniors & Person with Disabilities) For More Info Please Call Julie 250-278-3347 or Laurie 250 278-3348

Apartments for Rent 1 & 2 Bedroom Units Furnished & Unfurnished

695 per month

1422 & 1462 â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 6th Avenue, Fernie Located behind the Best Western

For more information call

250-423-1358

Auto

Financing

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Catcher,

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Today!

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1.800.910.6402

Sparwood- 3 bedroom, 2 full bath house for rent. Fridge, stove, dishwasher, washer & dryer. 2 vehicle car port, paved RV pad. Very clean and quiet. No smoking. Pets may be considered. Available December 1st. $1400/month plus utilities. Please call 250-4253761 SPARWOOD - FOR RENT Mobile home - all appliances. $900/month Call Joe 250-425-5387

lindsay@sparwoodrealestate.ca

Vacancy At Tom Uphill Manor

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CRAWFORD Bay House Rental, 3.5 bdrm, dbl garage, new appliances, $1200 + utilities (rent negot. for upkeep) 250365-1005

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Storage SELF STORAGE: Personal & commercial. Call Finniganâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Storage. 250423-3308 or 250-423-4207.

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THE FREE PRESS Thursday, December 12, 2013

Brain Games

CHINESE FOOD

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

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PUZZLE NO. 423

PUZZLE NO. 543

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52. 54. 57.

Elk Valley WEEKEND

WEATHER updated: Wed., December 11 9:00 MST, Sparwood

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

26. 27. 29. 31. 32. 33. 35. 37. 38. 39. 42. 43.

photos! and a small description.

ACROSS 1.

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Email your pet photos to customerservice@thefreepress.ca

FRIDAY

24-hr Snow Wind SW 5 km/h Hours of sunshine 3

SATURDAY

24-hr Snow 1-3 cm Wind SW 5 km/h Hours of sunshine 2

SUNDAY

24-hr Snow 1-3 cm Wind SW 5 km/h Hours of sunshine 5

r 27, 2012 Thursday, Decembe

SPORTS

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

ape

l el r Exc FREE

Fernie Ski Hill OpensPage 14 ELKFORD

First Elkford Council Sworn in - Page 17 SPARWOOD

Sparwood Mall concept- Page 16

MURDER

as the office today. in the same location printed out of a tent The Free Press in 1908,

Warsing Murders Page 22

AVALANCHE DEATHS

Eight died doing what they loved - Page 30

It was in this shack but no station office. of starting operation all the equipment was so, with the intention shed had been that that was happening, and business. The or freight all the materials unpacked, the cases were Press a newspaper type set for same built. When out of a tent, The Free had laid and the first Free Press is still in the and equipment he was born. Free Press. G.G lot, on Second Avenue. to ordered finally arrived, it The the In August 1898 Mr. It was also home to he Free Press is one He then went east in Fernie. for thrown out of the train editor and his family plant and stock was of the oldest business Henderson arrived dumped into two feet town didn’t buy the in the quite a few weeks, to build a first and in Fernie. Almost as Although the as hotel of snow. much back then, necessary newspaper and job Free dead of winter, soon as people were settling look like The first home of The to Mr. Henderson had a hunch class was hard in the area and starting printing office, returning Press was in a 12 foot x accommodation early days want- that it was going to grow the of the build the town, they shack, to come by in amazing, late in November 12 foot rough board Fernie. of ed a community newspaper into somethingbrother Mr. same year. present in in the rear of the news, so he and his to spread the local The railway was then else R.L. Henderson bought a lot events and everything

By Angela Treharne Free Press Staff

A history of serving Fern Toll Free: 1-877-423-2001 www.fernierealestate.com

ANSWER TO PUZZLE

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First Place

59. 63. 65.

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49. 50.

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41.

ANSWER TO PUZZLE NO.423

ACROSS

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

FYFE TODD REAL ESTATE CORPORATION PERSONAL

(250)423-8989

todd@fernierealestate.com

Check out full editions of The Free Press at www thefreepress.ca

click on e-editions button top left corner of our website

www.thefreepress.ca

10 year plan for BC Hydro Submitted

ill Bennett, Minister of Energy and Mines and Minister Responsible for Core Review announced a 10 year plan that will keep electricity rates as low as possible while BC Hydro makes investments in aging assets and new infrastructure to support British Columbia's growing population and economy. Over the past several months, government and BC Hydro have worked together to reduce pressure on rates. This effort builds on the 2011 review that identified over $391 million in savings. New measures in the 10 year plan will reduce the amount of money that government takes from the utility, free up additional cash to support investments in infrastructure, and lower BC Hydro's operating costs. "This is a balanced and responsible plan that keeps rates as low as possible while funding infrastructure investments to support our growing economy and population,” said Bennett. “Since 2011, government and BC Hydro have worked hard to reduce pressure on rates and we will continue to work together over the course of this plan to keep our electricity system affordable,

reliable and sustainable." Decades ago, BC Hydro built the backbone of our electricity system. Today, major components of that system need to be repaired or replaced. Meanwhile, British Columbia's population and economy are growing and new technologies have increased household power use. In December government released BC Hydro's approved Integrated Resource Plan which sets out cost effective investments in infrastructure, conservation and clean energy to meet an expected 40 per cent increase in demand over the next 20 years. To keep rates predictable while funding investments in aging and new infrastructure: • Government will set rate increases for the initial two years of the 10 year plan at nine per cent and six per cent; • The BC Utilities Commission (BCUC) will set increases for the following three years within caps of four per cent, 3.5 per cent and three per cent; and • In the final five years of the plan, rates will be set by the BCUC and actions by government and BC Hydro will ensure increases remain low and predictable. To help industrial customers and

customers on low incomes reduce their bills by using less electricity, BC Hydro will invest $1.6 billion in Power Smart programs under the 10 year plan. In addition, a rate design review process will be launched to examine ways to provide industrial customers with more options to reduce their electricity costs, as recommended by the Industrial Electricity Policy Review Task Force. In response to another recommendation from the task force, government will initiate a review of the BCUC, through the Core Review process, with the goal of increasing the commission's effectiveness and efficiency so that BC Hydro rates can be set by the commission starting in the third year of the plan. Currently, 80 per cent of the balance in BC Hydro's regulatory accounts is being paid down under amortization schedules approved by the BCUC. Under the 10 year plan, the remaining balance will start being paid down. In addition, to keep rate increases as gradual as possible, a new account will be created to spread costs that occur in the earlier years of the plan, over a longer period. This account will be paid down to zero within the term of the plan.

THE FREE PRESS Thursday, December 12, 2013

District of Elkford welcomes teens to Council

From left to right: Taylor Wurmlinger, Senior Council Youth Representative, Mayor Dean McKerracher, Nicole Klein, Junior Council Youth Representative. Sitting in their actual seats beside the Mayor, they begin their new term on the Elkford Council. Submitted by the District of Elkford By Tamara Hynd Free Press Staff

he Distict of Elkford mayor and council welcomed Senior Council Youth Representative Taylor Wurmlinger and Junior Council Youth Representative Nicole Klein to begin their new term on Council on November 25. Wurmlinger is in Grade 11 and is the younger sister of Shelby who was the Senior Youth Representative last year.

Klein is in grade 10 and returning for her second year as the Junior Youth Representative. Both youth reps are students at Elkford Secondary School. The Districts’ policy surrounding the youth involvement on council is to increase awareness of local government activities among Elkford youth and to increase Council’s awareness of youth issues in Elkford. This is the tenth year youth have been involved with Council.

50 Years of Ghostrider Legend In 2014 the Fernie Museum is proud to be celebrating 50 years since the Ghostrider Curse was lifted off the City of Fernie. The first event in this year-long celebration is the publication of the 2014 Commemorative Calendar.

Fernie Museum 2014 Commemorative Calendars are available at the Fernie Museum Polar Peek Books Carosella Ghostrider Trading

The Fernie Museum thanks these Calendar sponsors

Best Western Maxine Wolfe– Century 21 Overwaitea Park Place Fernie Professional Firefighters Island Lake Sparling East Medical Centre Fernie Alpine Resort Koocanusa Campground and Marina

Alive with History 491 2nd Ave. 250.423.7016 history@ferniemuseum.com

www.thefreepress.ca

THE FREE PRESS Thursday, December 12, 2013

Fernie ready to “over-wow” winter visitors By Sara Moulton Free Press Staff

n unorthodox training seminar recently taught sales and service staff in Fernie some new techniques on how to “over-wow” their customers. Guest speaker Stuart Ellis-Myers spent two days on December 5 and 6 sharing his insight and expertise with staff from Fernie’s tourism and hospitality industries. Ellis-Myers, who calls himself “Twitchy”, uses his experience of living with Tourette syndrome to educate his audience on how to overcome obstacles and create positive results for their clients. While many people may envision most training seminars as being serious or bland, Ellis-Myers’ courses provide an interactive environment that is highly enjoyable for attendees. Dakota Ward is the banquet supervisor at the Fernie Best Western Plus and was full of praise for EllisMyers after attending the first day’s course. “It was great, he’s just so lively… he gets the crowd involved and really has fun with it,” said Ward. “He teaches you how to go over and above; simple little things that you

can do, even in your personal life, to become a more inspiring and better person.” Tourism Fernie organized the seminar to help businesses provide the best possible service to residents and visitors alike. The selected courses had been developed for Whistler ahead of the 2010 Vancouver Olympics, making them particularly relevant to the winter season here in the Elk Valley. Corien Sieders, interim executive officer of Tourism Fernie, would like tourists to remember Fernie for more than just beautiful scenery. “I hope that people will come here and be surprised and amazed with how great the people of Fernie are,” said Sieders. “I’ve been really happy with what we’ve been doing (until now), but it was time to think outside the box.” With such positive responses to Ellis-Myers’ techniques, Tourism Fernie expects to arrange more courses to be held next year. Further information on upcoming events can be found at www.tourismfernie.com while questions about the training can be directed to the corporate office on (250) 423 2037.

Stuart ‘Twitchy’ Ellis-Myers leads Fernie employees in a fun and interactive workshop. Photo by S. Moulton

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

PUBLIC NOTICE Alternative Approval Process FRANCHISE AGREEMENT AUTHORIZATION BYLAW NO. 752, 2014

A Bylaw to Authorize Renewal of Franchise Agreement for the Construction and Operation of Natural Gas Distribution Facilities within the District of Elkford Local governments must obtain the assent of the electors in order to sign a franchise agreement. Local governments can use the Alternative Approval Process (AAP) to do so as it is less expensive than a referendum to gauge public opinion. Some electors favour the AAP over a referendum because they have more time (at least 30 days) to express their opinion instead of the two days (advance poll and voting day) that are available to vote in a referendum. The method by which the electors express their opinion is by signing an Elector Response Form and submitting it to their local government by a given deadline. If less than 10% of electors state their opposition, a Council may proceed with its proposed action. More information about the AAP can be found at: http://www.cscd.gov.bc.ca/lgd/gov_structure/community_charter/ governance/alternative_approval_process.htm or by contacting the District of Elkford at 250.865.4000. Notice Is Hereby Given That the District of Elkford proposes to adopt a bylaw authorizing the District to enter into an agreement that grants an exclusive or limited franchise for the provision of a natural gas supply with a maximum term of an initial agreement or a renewal agreement of 20 years. The District of Elkford and FortisBC (formerly Terasen Gas Inc., formerly B.C. Gas) were parties to a Franchise or Operating Agreement dated November 1, 1992 that expired October 31, 2013. This agreement over the last 5 years has provided an average of $70,309 per year in general revenue for the District of Elkford. Pursuant to the Community Charter, in order to adopt the franchise agreement authorization bylaw the District of Elkford must obtain the approval of its electors. The District of Elkford may adopt the Franchise Agreement Authorization Bylaw No. 752, 2014 if, after the deadline, less than 10% of the eligible electors in the District have signed

Upcoming Council and Committee Meetings

and submitted individual Elector Response Forms. If after the deadline at least 10% of the eligible electors in the District have signed and submitted Elector Response Forms, the Council may not adopt the same bylaw, unless it receives assent of the electors in a voting proceeding (referendum) which the District may opt to then undertake. The number of Elector Response Forms equalling 10% of the eligible electors in the District is one hundred and ninety one (191). Elector Response Forms The response of the electors must be in the form established by the District of Elkford. Forms are available at the District Office located at 816 Michel Road, or may be printed from the website at www.elkford.ca. For an Elector Response Form to be accepted it must: • Be submitted only by an eligible elector of the District of Elkford to the District Office; • Include the full name of the elector; • State the residential address of the elector; • Be signed by the elector; • If applicable, state the address of the property in relation to which the person is entitled to vote as a non-resident property elector; and • Be submitted to the Corporate Officer before the deadline. Deadline Elector Response Forms will be accepted in person at the District Office NO LATER THAN 4:30 P.M. LOCAL TIME, ON MONDAY, JANUARY 13, 2014. Eligible Elector • An eligible elector for the purpose of this Alternative Approval Process is a resident who meets the following criteria: • is age eighteen (18) or older; and

•December 9 •December 23

Regular Council @ 6 pm Regular Council CANCELLED

• • • •

is a Canadian citizen; and has been a resident of British Columbia for at least six (6) months; and has been a resident of the District of Elkford for at least thirty (30) days upon the date of form submission; and, is not disqualiﬁed from voting by the Local Government Act or any other act.

A non-resident property elector who meets the following criteria is also an eligible elector: • is not entitled to register as a resident elector for the District of Elkford; and • is age eighteen (18) or older; and • is a Canadian citizen; and • has been a resident of British Columbia for at least the past six (6) months; and • has been a registered named owner of real property in the District of Elkford for at least the past thirty (30) days prior to the date of form submission; and • is not disqualified from voting by the Local Government Act or any other act. Corporations are not entitled to vote nor are lands held in a corporate name eligible to vote. In the case of multiple owners of a parcel, only one person may vote as a non-resident property elector, with the written consent of the majority of the owners. Questions may be directed to Dorothy Szawlowski, Assistant Corporate Officer at 250.865.4005 or by email to dszawlowski@ elkford.ca Curtis Helgesen Chief Administrative Officer November 26, 2013

These meetings will be held in the Council Chambers at 816 Michel Road and are open to the public.

www.thefreepress.ca

THE FREE PRESS Thursday, December 12, 2013

Good ol’ Saint Nick O

By Andrea Horton Free Press Staff

n December 8, The Park Place Lodge hosted a special visit from Old Saint Nick at Max Restaurant. “It’s a great community tradition to be a part of over the past 13. years,” states Scott Gilmet, director of marketing and sales for the Park

Place Lodge. “Not only is it a great opportunity for children to visit with Santa, it also helps the Park Place Lodge raise funds for charitable causes and organizations.” Three dollars from every Santa breakfast sold will be donated to the Red Cross' Typhoon Haiyan fund and the Park Place Lodge will also provide a matching $3 contribution.

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Six-year-old Blake Bannatyne asked Santa for a new right curved hockey stick and a mini hockey net for Christmas as well as Tiger Woods Golf for Wii for his eight-year-old brother Kelly who couldn’t come see Santa himself as he was in a hockey tournament. Santa was at the Park Place Lodge on Sunday, Dec. 8 visiting with children of all ages. Submitted photo

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THE FREE PRESS Thursday, December 12, 2013

Send your input on CBT’s proposed environmental focus Draft strategic plan sets CBT’s environmental priorities for next five years Submitted

ince spring 2013, Columbia Basin Trust (CBT) has been engaging with Basin residents and organizations to help renew its water and environmental strategic plans. CBT is now asking for feedback on the culmination of that input—the draft 2014 – 2019 Environmental Strategic Plan. Once finalized, the plan will guide how CBT supports activities to strengthen the Basin’s collective ability to address current and future

environmental priorities. The draft plan sets goals in five areas: water, ecosystems, climate change, environmental education and enhancing the capacities of environment-focused organizations. “Thank you to everyone who has joined the discussion; your ideas are helping to shape the Trust’s environmental focus for the next five years,” said Neil Muth, CBT president and CEO. “We now seek your help again to finalize the plan—do you feel supportive of this plan, what will this

plan mean to you in your community?” To help shape the goals, objectives and activities in the draft plan, CBT sought out a range of perspectives. Residents participated in workshops and meetings across the Basin, and in a basin-wide online survey process called Thoughtstream. CBT also consulted with environmental experts and a range of organizations, plus reviewed technical documents that identify environmental challenges in the Basin, and strategic plans from other

Basin organizations doing environmental work. To read the draft plan, visit www.cbt.org/ draftenvironmentalplan. Provide your input by emailing environment@cbt. org by noon on Thursday, January 9, 2014. CBT supports efforts to deliver social, economic and environmental benefits to the residents of the Columbia Basin. To learn more about CBT programs and initiatives, visit www.cbt.org or call 1-800-505-8998.

Celebrating Canada Submitted

elebrate Canada is an eleven-day celebration that takes place from June 21 to July 1, and the deadline to apply is January 15, 2014. Canadian Heritage provides financial support for activities organized during the Celebrate Canada period. These activities

celebrate National Aboriginal Day on June 21, Saint-JeanBaptiste Day on June 24, Canadian Multiculturalism Day on June 27 and Canada Day on July 1. Eligible recipients for funding include Canadian not-for-profit organizations, unincorporated associations, Canadian businesses organizing projects of a non-

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Members of Crowsnest Community Choir and Crowsnest Symphony Orchestra held a special Christmas Concert on Dec. 4 at Horace Allen School. Directed by Deborah Goldstein, the concert featured a blend of traditional pieces with contemporary world music and humorous carols.

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BC Employment receives complaint against Fernie’s Tim Hortons By Tamara Hynd Fernie Free Press

A complaint has been filed with B.C. Employment Standards Branch against the owner of Fernie Tim Hortons by former employees Richard Pepito and Heidi Kibanoff. The couple was hired under Canada’s Temporary Foreign Worker Program by Pierre Pelletier, owner of the Fernie and Crowsnest Pass franchises. Allegations include Pelletier making employees pay back a portion their overtime wages to him in cash. Pelletier is also accused of charging employees the processing fees for renewing their temporary work permits, which according to regulations, the employer is responsible for paying. “We’re reviewing the allegations and can say

that we are treating the matter seriously and are currently conducting a review in full cooperation with B.C. Employment Standards,” commented Tim Horton’s Public Affairs Manager, Olga Petryci. The East Kootenay Labour Council is assisting the couple with the case. Alex Hanson, executive for the Council said, “We were told they weren’t getting over-time on their regular paycheck. The employer would pay their overtime on a separate cheque, drive them to the bank to cash it, then ask for some of the cash back telling them it was for their own good. The problem is the employers have too much power over their employees,” said Hanson. “They come here to obtain a better life and the employer is the gatekeeper. “The Labour Council is not going away until the owner makes it right.”

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David Currie, Public Affairs Officer Ministry of Jobs, Tourism and Skills Training and Minister Responsible for Labour said “There is an open complaint against the Tim Hortons in Fernie. However under the Employment Standards Act the ministry does not comment on open Employment Standards complaints.” Worker’s complaints made to the Employment Standards Branch can go through the four routes of resolution, mediation, adjudication and/or penalty. Pepito and Kibanoff’s case is scheduled to go before an adjudicator on Feb. 13, 2014 in Kelowna. At that time, penalties may or may not be levied. “We have been cooperating since the allegations have come up and are continuing to fully cooperate with B.C. Employment Standards,” said Kristine Hovind–Pelletier, Pierre Pelletier’s wife in a statement to The Free Press.

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Family of five submerged in Elk River in motor vehicle accident By Tamara Hynd Fernie Free Press

The Crowsnest Pass Symphony, one of the oldest in the province, brought another entertaining and moving selection of Christmas songs to local music lovers. Photo by J. MacFarlane

Head of Public Works to retire By Joni MacFarlane Editor

Frank Besinger, Director of Planning, Engineering & Operations for Crowsnest Pass announced his retirement on Friday, Dec. 6. Besinger said he would stay on with the municipality until the end of March 2014 to see some of the municipality’s major projects through. “I want to stay through

the process for recruiting and help someone into the role,” he told The Free Press. He said he also believes his experience and knowledge will be helpful during the 2014 budget discussions as well as seeing the Disaster Flood Recovery Program underway to ensure work is done before next spring’s runoff. Besinger has land in the Valleyview area, east of Grande Prairie. The land has

been leased out for the past few years, but Besinger said he’s looking forward to living there and relaxing after many years of working. Besinger started with the municipality in February 2012. Besinger’s resignation follows on the heels of the Chief Administrative Officer, Myron Thompson, who is leaving his position shortly before Christmas.

A father and his three children under the age of 10 are recovering from their injuries after a traffic accident thanks to the quick assistance of a Fernie man on Sunday, Dec. 1. A family of five was travelling eastbound returning home to Coaldale, Alberta when their vehicle left Highway 3, plunging into an arm of the Elk River. The vehicle, a white Chevrolet minivan, came to rest upside down in the water. A passing motorist and his girlfriend went down into the river and rescued all five occupants from the mini-van. At approximately 2:30 p.m., Elk Valley RCMP from Fernie and East Kootenay Traffic Services (EKTS) responded to the collision on Highway 3 about eight km west of Fernie known as Vanghal’s straight stretch. “Witnesses at the scene and RCMP members engaged in CPR on the female passenger but tragically, she was pronounced dead at the Fernie Hospital,” said Elk Valley RCMP. “RCMP members and a traveling physician managed to revive the four-year-old child by con-

ducting CPR. The male driver and one of his children were treated at Sparwood Hospital with minor injuries including hypothermia. The other two children were transported to Alberta Children’s Hospital by air ambulance with severe injuries.” The Fernie man who helped rescue the family was treated for hypothermia and released. RCMP is in contact with the young man who is asking for his privacy. Sgt. Don Erichsen commented on the Fernie man’s heroic actions. “It’s an extremely traumatic situation and he risked his own life to help. One person did die and when you stand that close to death that’s a large cross for any one to bear. He is asking for privacy at this time.” Road conditions at the time of the collision were slushy on the center of the roadway way due to an overnight snowfall. In the initial investigation, it appears that the minivan may have been attempting a pass and lost control on the slushy center area of the straight stretch of roadway. An investigation into the collision is continuing.

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Crowsnest Pass Free Press Thursday, December 12, 2013

Student elected mayor Submitted

My name is Nathan Milford and I am in Grade six at Isabelle Sellon School. This year as part of Social Studies, each grade six class held elections at the same time as the Crowsnest Pass Municipal elections. I ran for mayor in our class and our town’s name is Riverstone. We went to the voting station and saw what happened while people came and got their ballots. I was elected mayor of Riverstone and four of my classmates, Kennedy, Kyler, Alan, and Alice were elected as councillors by my classmates. Since then, we have had a town hall meeting and five council meetings. We have had to make decisions about building a resort that costs $1,295,240 in our town and wheth-

Grade 6 student Nathan Milford was elected Mayor of the town of Riverstone and has been involved in high-level decisions having significant ramifications. The elections were held in conjunction with those of the Municipality of Crowsnest Pass. Submitted photo

er to evacuate to get at the oil under our town. We had three council meetings and voted on three by-laws meant to keep our citizens safe. I have enjoyed this activity in our class, it has taught me a lot about running a town and how government works. On Dec. 3, I went to a municipal council meeting and got to see firsthand how our municipal council works. They go through a lot of information before making decisions. After the meeting I was addressed by Mayor Blair Painter and got a picture taken with Mayor Painter and the councillors. I shook hands with council and got a pin.

John Barlow seeks PC nomination By Joni MacFarlane Editor

munity for 20-some years, so I’m just going to take this to a different platform. I’ve built my reputation on integrity. I firmly believe I have a strong The fourth candidate for federal reputation in my area.” representation of the Macleod riding “As a journalist, you have your finger believes his experience and community on the pulse of your community, you involvement will give him an edge as know what the issues are, you know Ottawa’s representative. who the sources are,” John Barlow who cursaid Barlow. “I’ve built rently works as the associsome very strong netate publisher and editor of works of sources and the Okotoks-based Western at all levels of governWheel newspaper, announced ments... When I get to his intention to seek the that point I’ll know Conservative Party’s nominawho to contact and tion for the federal riding of I’ll have relationships Macleod with the retirement with those key people of current MP Ted Menzies. already in place.” Barlow’s previous political Barlow said he foray into politics was in 2012 admired Ted Menzies when he ran as the Progressive and the impact he Conservative candidate in the made in Ottawa. Highwood constituency. He “He showed with a ran against Danielle Smith, strong work ethic and leader of the Wildrose Party, strong character, he finishing second. “It definitely gave me some John Barlow currently works as associate publisher and editor of the built himself up to the vital knowledge into how the Okotoks-based Western Whell newspaper and is seeking the Con- Minister,” he said. “It just goes to prove that election process works, but servative nomination for the Macleod riding. I think the most important Submitted photo if you’re dedicated and committed, you can part was the connections and have an impact and the networks I was able to develop through that process,” he said. culture industry in terms of supply- that’s exactly what I intend to do.” Barlow grew up in Saskatchewan and “I had phenomenal response, and even management and ensuring access to has been in Alberta for about 25 years though I wasn’t successful, we had new markets. “I want to eliminate some of the first in High River where he worked for some outstanding support and that support comes to the forefront with this obstacles for getting our value-added the High River Times and currently in products to international markets,” he Okotoks. He is married with three chilcampaign.” dren ages 15, 20 and 22. Barlow said he’s chosen now to run at said. There are currently four candidates Another area Barlow wants addressed the federal level because he sees issues is streamlined access to the temporary seeking the Conservative nomination that need to be addressed. “I think I have the skill set and foreign worker process so industries for Macleod. A by-election must be the experience to be a strong voice in who rely on the program have easier held within six months of outgoing MP Ted Menzies announcement to Ottawa but I want to make sure some access. As a journalist, Barlow also believes retire. At this point, the date of the bythings I’ve seen through the provincial process, through my work as a journal- his experience gives him a good skill set. election hasn’t been set. “I’ve been a strong voice for my comist, get done,” he said.

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The Ladies of the C.N.P. Royal Purple Lodge #15 would like to thank the vendors and all who attended our Christmas Craft Sale. Also to all members and non-members & Brother Elks who helped in any way to make this a very successful event. A special thanks to Sieghert & Rose Gail for the lovely music they supplied. The raffles were a success & all fifteen prizes were claimed by the winners.

Thursday, December 12, 2013 Crowsnest Pass Free Press

Opinion

Phone: 250-509-0177 Email: publisher@cnpfreepress.ca For news tips, community, sporting and other events, please contact Joni MacFarlane at 403-563-7725 or email: joni.macfar@gmail.com

Crowsnest Pass works together Once again, Crowsnest Pass has shown what it can do when it works together for the good of the community. Although it’s not a slam-dunk, advancing to the semi-finals in a contest that would give money to the Pass Powderkeg Ski Hill is a coup we should all be proud of. The contest includes so many worthwhile causes - helping children, seniors, wildlife - I’m glad I’m not one of the judges deciding who wins and who doesn’t. But getting this far sends a clear signal that residents and others who believe in the potential of the Crowsnest Pass can come together to help the community. What a chair lift would do for the Pass Powderkeg is immeasurable. Striving to be one of Alberta’s best family ski resorts, the hill offers local youth and families an opportunity to stay active and socialize in the great outdoors. Researchers have shown a demonstrable link between physical activity and children’s performance in school. Then there’s our burgeoning tendency towards obesity with almost a third of Canadians aged five to 17 classified as overweight or obese, according to Statistics Canada. This is a real public health concern given the tendency for excess weight in childhood to persist through to adulthood. Having an affordable ski hill on our doorstep is one more reason to get out and get physical – for all of us. As a facility geared towards families and youth, the Pass Powderkeg is a wonderful opportunity to learn the sport of skiing and snowboarding, to make new friends, and to enjoy those long winter months – all at a reasonable cost. Voting closed on Dec. 11 and the finalist ideas will be announced on Jan. 28. There are so many organizations, groups and individuals in the Crowsnest Pass who give of their resources and time, it is truly inspiring to see the generosity of a community working together to help us become better. Kudos to all of you. The Crowsnest Pass Free Press welcomes letters to the editor that are of interest to our community. Whatever the subject, there are a few basic guidelines to follow before Crowsnest Pass Free Press will publish your comment. • Letters must be received by 4 p.m. Thursday for the following week’s paper. • One letter per person per month. • Letters should be typed or neatly written and present the issues as clearly as possible in 350 words or less. • All letters must contain the name, address and signature of the writer, and a phone number where they may be reached during business hours. • Anonymous letters will not be published and pen names may not be used, except in exceptional circumstances at the discretion of the editor. • The editor reserves the right to edit for length, clarity or reject letters over matters of libel, legality, taste or style. Letters published do not necessarily reflect the editorial policy or belief of this newspaper.

Man still missing from Pincher Creek By Joni MacFarlane Editor

Pincher Creek RCMP said the ground search for missing 22-yearold Taylor Elliott has been called off. On Friday, Dec. 6, police said that until the ground cover changes or until further clues come up, the search has come to an end. Elliott disappeared on foot without a trace in the early morning hours of Sunday, Dec. 1 just as a snow storm warning enveloped southern Alberta. Since then, the area has been plagued with extreme temperatures and severe wind with blowing snow. Pincher Creek Search and Rescue were joined by members from the Calgary Search and Rescue team, Southeastern Alberta Search and Rescue from Medicine Hat and Lethbridge Area Search and Rescue. On Friday, crews conducted grid searches on foot in areas north and

Twenty-two-year-old Taylor Elliott has been missing from the Pincher Creek area since Sunday, Dec. 1. Anyone with any information on his whereabouts is asked to contact RCMP. Submitted photo

west of Pincher Creek. RCMP police dogs were also called in to assist in the search as well as Alberta’s RCMP helicopter. While the Pincher Creek RCMP have suspended the ground search, family and friends are still out looking for him. Their search effort is based at the Pincher Creek Golf Course Club House. A website and Facebook page have been started to help raise awareness and assist with the search. Elliott is described as 6-feet tall weighing 190 pounds with dark hair and a full beard. He was last seen wearing a tan Carhartt jacket, blue jeans, a dark hoodie and carrying a medium-sized grey camouflaged backpack and a .270 rifle. Anyone with information on Elliott’s whereabouts is asked to call the RCMP Pincher Creek detachment at 403-627-6000.

Free Press

the

Crowsnest Pass

12707, 20 Avenue, Blairmore, AB T0K 0E0 • 250-509-0177 Chris Hopkyns, Publisher Email: publisher@cnpfreepress.com

Published weekly each Thursday by The Crowsnest Pass Free Press, a division of Black Press Group Ltd. and distributed throughout the Crowsnest Pass. Free circulation, 1,700.

Chris Hopkyns PUBLISHER/SALES

Joni MacFarlane

REPORTER/EDITOR

Bridget Fix

PRODUCTION

Crowsnest Pass Free Press Thursday, December 12, 2013

Public advised to use caution near Grassy Mountain Mine project Press Release

Riversdale Resources Limited (Riversdale) would like to inform the community that it will be commencing drilling operations on its Grassy Mountain Project, approximately six kilometres north of Blairmore, starting the week of Dec. 9. This is an exciting milestone for the Grassy Mountain Project and marks the commencement of ground based activities under Riversdale ownership. The initial drill program involves the drilling of 15 to 20 holes and is expected to take about three months. This will be followed in 2014 with a more extensive drilling program and other ground based activities. Throughout this program, there will be heavy trucks and other large equipment on both the road access to the project known as the Grassy Mountain Road and across the Grassy Mountain Project area. The use of larger equipment increases the risk of incidents involving vehicles travelling on the Grassy Mountain Road and the project area.

To ensure the community is fully informed of the location of activities, Riversdale has placed signs along the Grassy Mountain Road indicating where they are taking place. In the interests of the safety of the community and the employees/contractors of Riversdale, we ask that the community limit the use of the Grassy Mountain Road where possible so as to reduce the risk of incident. A safety person will be monitoring the Grassy Mountain trail to advise users of the current activity as it happens. Should there be a need to use the access road, we ask that speed be reduced and extra caution be taken. As the activities on the project ramp up in 2014, Riversdale may implement additional safety controls on and near the project area to further manage the risk of incidents between the community, recreational users and Riversdale’s activities. Riversdale will keep the community informed at all times. If anyone has any questions or concerns, please contact Riversdale either at the Blairmore Office (1233120th Ave.) or call (403) 753 5160.

GOT A NEWS TIP OR STORY YOU’D LIKE COVERED? CALL 403-563-7725 OR EMAIL joni.macfar@gmail.com

Left: Desiree Simoneau, manager of the Crowsnest Pass Food Bank, accepted a donation of $75from the Crowsnest Pass Chamber of Commerce. The funds were raised through the sale of decorated trees at the Chamber’s Christmas in the Mountains Dance. Right: First prize winner in the Parade of Lights during Christmas in the Mountains was Rhonda Waldner from Hillcrest who took home $500 cash. Submitted photos

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Thursday, December 12, 2013 Crowsnest Pass Free Press

Crowsnest Pass Free Press Thursday, December 12, 2013

Thursday, December 12, 2013 Crowsnest Pass Free Press

10% discount off your Christmas Arrangement if you pre-book by December 16 • FRIENDLY • VaRIETY • CREaTIVE • ExPERIENCED

C & D Floral www.floralexplosion.com Located in the Pincher Creek Ranchland Mall Phone: 403-627-4704 Toll Free: 1-888-999-0992

All that Will Be Sold! Diamond Rings

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Spend $150 on Pandora Collectable Pandora Ornament

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Gabriel & Company New York Sterling Silver w/Diamond Swarovski Crystal

Michal Negrin

(made in Israel) pendants

Icon Couture

dress up your boots

Extended Christmas Hours: Thursday & Friday 10am-8pm Sundays 1pm-4pm

Blackburn Jewellers

768 Main St., Pincher Creek, AB (403)627-3292 www.blackburnjewellers.com

24 Days of Christmas

Sale on Now e Check out the Man Cav Great gifts for Dad

Students at Isabelle Sellon School place their orders for books and activity games at the Book Fair on Nov. 28. The annual Book Fair is open to everyone and raises money for the school’s library. Photo by J. MacFarlane

HR position deferred to new CAO By Joni MacFarlane Editor For the second time so far in this council’s term, the position of Human Resources Administrator was deferred. At the Dec. 3 council meeting, Chief Administrative Officer Myron Thompson brought the issue to the table with a recommendation that the position be reincorporated into the municipality’s organizational structure so that it could be filled in the new year. Hiring a human resources administrator was highlighted in both the recently completed municipal inspection conducted by the province and the recently completed Workplace Assessment initiated

Municipal appointments By Joni MacFarlane Editor Council made a number of appoint-

by the union representing municipal staff. Twenty-five per cent of that report’s recommendations were dependent upon the position. A letter of support from the union accompanied Thompson’s recommendation. In the past, a Director position reporting to the CAO was in place but this position was cut from the organizational structure along with the HR Clerk in 2012, said Thompson. Several councillors offered their opinion that although they support the addition of an HR person, they believe the incoming Chief Administrative Officer should undertake it. “I don’t feel we should be making any changes to the organizational structure

ments on Dec. 3 to various municipal boards and committees. They are as follows: Agriculture Services Board – Christopher Smith (2-year term)

Rose Peddler Flowers and Gifts

Pre-order for Christmas now We offer:

• Willow Tree • LED pictures, angels, snowmen • Christmas Tree in a Can - while stocks last • Baby Snoozies • Lots and lots and lots of ornaments • Kitras • Large selection of Western ornaments • Only location for Painted Ponies in the Pass • Giftware • Christmas Snow FRee Globes • Swiss Army Knives Hot appele • Friendship Balls Cider evyry • Floral Pics Frida

Pincher Office Products (2000) Ltd. & Christine’s Gift Shoppe 750 Main St., Pincher Creek, AB 403-627-2628 • Fax 403-627-2916 Email: poffice763@gmail.com

Call Christo advertiser

(250)509-0177

• Unique ﬂoral arrangements • Christmas centerpieces • Silk wreaths & arrangements • Pointsettias & Christmas dish gardens

New in store:

• Hendrik Boesch Nature Photography $5/card or 5 cards for $20, photos available in variety of price ranges 13047-20th Ave., Blairmore, AB

(403) 562-7373

Culture & Heritage Committee – Tyler Folkard (3-year term) Community Economic Development & Tourism Advisory Committee – Chad Petrone (3-year term)

until we have a new CAO in place. We need to bring that person in and take a look at what we’ve got, what our needs are, and have it brought back to council,” said Councillor Dean Ward. “I don’t think we should build that person’s team.” “As much as I know there’s a need for this person and believe me, I do, I do have to agree with Councillor Ward,” said Councillor Dave Filipuzzi. “I think because of [Thompson] leaving and the challenges facing a new CAO, we should start there and see what his direction is and get his feel on it too.” A motion to leave the organizational structure as is until a new CAO was in place was carried.

and Lynnette Jessop (3-year interim term) Family & Community Support Services Board – Leslie McCallum (3-year term) and Lindsey Douglas (3-year term)

Christmas shopping made easy...

Baskets, gift cards, giftware, and of course a huge selection of liquor!

Weekl specialsy! Located Highway 3, Blairmore West Access, (Next to Tim Hortons)

(403)562-2664

Municipality of CNP Library Board – Cathy Pierzchala (3-year term) and Pam Hellevang (3-year term) Municipal Planning Commission – Tim Juhlin (3-year term) Community Policing Committee – Derek Medland (3-year term) Pass Powderkeg Ski Hill Society – Henry Bruns (3-year term) Sports & Recreation Committee - Derek Medland (3-year term) and Cameron Willoughby (3-year term). Vacancies are still available for the Agriculture Services Board, CNP Senior Housing Board, Community Policing Committee, Municipal Planning C o m m i s s i o n , M u n i c i p a l Subdivision & Development Appeal Board, Culture & Heritage Committee and the Community E c o n o m i c Development & Tourism Advisory Committee. Deadline for submissions has been extended to Dec. 27.

Crowsnest Pass Free Press Thursday, December 12, 2013

Volunteers from Mountain Radio, Bridge City Chrysler and the Crowsnest Pass Food Bank accepted donations for their annual Pack the Pickup at Blairmore Sobey’s on Saturday, Dec. 7. Photo by J. MacFarlane

Fire/Rescue briefs By Joni MacFarlane Editor

For the month of November, Crowsnest Pass Fire/ Rescue Department responded to 10 calls for service. They included: On Nov. 1, fire/rescue staff responded to a single vehicle that rolled and wedged into the A&W sign at the Fas Gas station in Frank. Fuel and antifreeze spilled onto the ground. Seven staff responded for traffic control and clean-up. On Nov. 3, fire/rescue staff responded to a tractortrailer that spun out

of control west of Coleman. Five staff were called by RCMP to assist with traffic control. On Nov. 3, a backcountry rescue was called in at the same time as the tractor-trailer incident. Hunters who had hired a guide were presumed lost in the York Creek area near the old plane crash. The hunters walked out while the guide continued looking for them. One search manager responded and no injuries were reported. On Nov. 5, fire/rescue staff responded to an incident when a vehicle hit and sheared the

gas line on the back of the Cosmopolitan Hotel in Blairmore. Nineteen responders were called out. Three engines were staged on two corners and a third was staged on the rear due to the size of the building. There were no injuries. On Nov. 16, nine fire/rescue staff responded to an incident in the Frank Industrial area. A propane tank had been dumped off and opened releasing gas into the air. On Nov. 19, four fire/rescue staff were dispatched for traffic control when a vehicle hit the ditch west of Coleman.

Police briefs By Joni MacFarlane Editor

Between Nov. 27 and Dec. 3, Crowsnest Pass RCMP responded to 50 calls for service. They included: Assault: 2 Threats/Harassment: 2 Mischief/Vandalism: 1 Theft: 2 Impaired Driving: 1 24-Hr Driving Suspension: 1 Disturbing Peace: 1 Driving Complaints: 10 MV Collisions: 7 S u s p i c i o u s Occurrences: 2 Assistance to General Public: 5 Assistance to Other Agencies: 8 False Alarms: 4 911 Calls (invalid) 3 Municipal Bylaws: 1 Prisoners held: 2 Copper bandit On Nov. 27 at 11

a.m., police received a complaint from a TransCanada employee about theft of copper wire stolen from Burton Creek compressor station on Highway 22. The break-in occurred sometime between Nov. 17 and 19. Estimated value was unknown. The matter is under investigation.

complaint of a possible impaired driver leaving Bellevue. The suspect vehicle was located in Coleman and a 24-year-old male from Crowsnest Pass was arrested. Two breath samples were obtained and he was charged with impaired driving. A court date of Jan. 7 has been set.

Hit & run I On Nov. 27 at 12:40 a.m., police received a complaint of a hit and run to a parked vehicle at 119 St. and 20 Ave. Blairmore. A 2004 Ford F250 truck was damaged. The incident is under investigation and police are looking for a red/maroon truck.

Domestic assault On Nov. 29 at 11:35 p.m., police received a complaint of domestic assault at a Coleman residence. The 33-yearold male suspect had left the residence before police arrived but he was later arrested and released on conditions to appear in court. A court date of Dec. 10 was set.

Impaired On Nov. 28 at 11:50 p.m., police received a

Young driver On Nov. 30 at 10:45 p.m., while on patrol,

Both lanes of Highway 3 were temporarily closed while the vehicle was removed. On Nov. 19, 12 fire/rescue staff responded to assist motorists after Highway 3 was closed west of Coleman due to severe weather conditions. On Nov. 20, 13 fire/rescue staff responded to a smoke alarm at a Blairmore residence. The smoke was caused by a popcorn cooking incident. On Nov. 23, 13 fire/rescue staff responded to a smoke alarm at a Coleman residence. A pan had been left on the stove.

Crow Works Engraving hosted a Chamber “After Hours” for Crowsnest Pass Chamber of Commerce members on Dec. 6 followed by an open house in celebration of iits 10th anniversary. Photo by J. MacFarlane

Career Opportunity

On Nov. 24, a backcountry rescue was called after police received a call of a stranded snowmobiler. A 30-year-old male from Calgary was sledding when his machine broke down. He was inexperienced, it was his first time out, he had no survival gear and was alone. Six responders were sent to the York Creek staging area and 11 remained available for other calls. The subject was located south of Coleman with no injuries. Residents are advised that a fee of $425/hour/vehicle may be charged by responders in backcountry incidents.

AutOmOtive SAleS COnSultAnt Due to a strong demand for Ford automobiles, we have an immediate opening for a sales specialist to sell new and used vehicles. The successful candidate will be energetic, personable and have a strong commitment to exceptional customer service. We offer product training, above average pay plan, strong management support and operate in a friendly, respectful environment. Please contact George Westholme at 403.627.4461 or email gwolstenholme@castlefordsales.com

835 Waterton Ave., Pincher Creek

www.castleford.ca

the girls at police stopped a vehicle for speeding on Highway 3 in Frank. Police detected an odour of liquor on the breath of the 19-yearold male driver from Crowsnest Pass. He provided a breath sample of .025 and had his graduated drivers’ licence suspended for 30 days and his vehicle seized for 30 days. There is a zero tolerance for GDL drivers. Street fighting man On Dec. 1 at 6 a.m., police received a complaint of three males fighting in the Tim Horton’s parking lot. Police believe they have the identity of the suspects and the incident is under investigation. Hit & run II On Dec. 2 at 9 a.m.,

police received a report of a hit and run to a vehicle parked at 122 St. and 19 Ave. Blairmore. The incident occurred on Dec. 1 about 11:30 p.m. A 2010 Dodge Journey was damaged. A 34-year-old male from Blairmore was located and charged with mischief. A court date of Jan. 21 was set. Hit & run III On Dec. 27 at 1 p.m., police received a report of a hit and run to a vehicle parked at 81 St. and 19 Ave. Coleman. A 2005 Subaru Legacy was damaged. The incident is under investigation. Provincial court in Pincher Creek was cancelled due to inclement weather on Dec. 2 and 3. Docket matters were set over to Dec. 10.

look forward to seeing you

doterra essential oils have arrived Gifts Baskets for Christmas

evening appointments available

rumorssalonandspa@hotmail.ca 403-904-1999 763 Main Street, Pincher Creek, AB

Thursday, December 12, 2013 Crowsnest Pass Free Press

COMMUNITY CALENDAR

Start your Year off with the Right Smile Now Accepting new patients at Crowsnest Dental

DECEMBER 14 – Christmas Bazzar, a special event for all children, will be held at the Compass

Crowsnest Dental

12513 - 21 Avenue, Blairmore, AB Phone: 877-542-2236 crowsnestdental@abledentalgroup.com

DECEMBER 15 – Bellecrest Association presents Santa in the Park at the Bellevue Legion from 1 p.m. to 3 p.m. Everyone is welcome. DECEMBER 18 - The Metis Nation of Alberta Local Council Chinook 1880 holds a monthly meeting and Christmas get-together from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. at the Pincher Creek Provincial Building. Please use east access. For more info. Contact 403-627-1884 or email chinooklocal1880@hotmail.com.

DomesTic Bliss lifesTyle managemenT & concierge services

• personal assistant • homemaking • organizing • events WE ARE HERE • holiday planning • errands • gift certificates

GIVE THETO GIFT OF TIME wsnest pas ro

domestic bliss

403-563-8829 403-563-8829 If youneed need itit- we do itdo it If you - we

www.domesticblisscnp.com

* holiday planning * errands * gift certificates

Baby Lock Machines

• BMP8 Professional Embroidery Machine - new includes all accessories to start a business • Ellageo Sewing/Embroidery (BLL) demo • Pro-line Serger (BL-07) - new • Imagine Serger (BL1AT) - air threading - demo • Elizabeth Sewing Machine (BL200A) new • Quilter’s Pro Sewing/Serging Machine (BLQP) - Demo • Grace Sewing Machine (BL40) - new includes extension table

Arrow Sewing Cabinets

• Gidget II Portable Sewing & Craft Table - New • Olivia Sewing Cabinet & Sewing Chair (Pistachio green) - new

Machine Luggage • Tutto 17’’ - new • Tutto 20’’ - new • Serger Trolly - new

Please call (403)563-7714 or (403)563-6438 for further details and pricing

Carry emergency equipment in your vehicle such as a cell phone, an emergency candle, blankets, booster cables, and flashlight, tow strap or tow rope. If you have troubles on the road, stay with your vehicle, do not wonder off to look for help. Road Closures Early into this winter season, we have had two road closures due to heavy snowfall and gusting winds. These events make whiteout conditions on the highway and travelling unsafe. Under the direction of the Minister of Transportation who orders the road closure, Crowsnest Pass Fire/Rescue supports the Minister by providing personnel and equipment to man the closure gate and control traffic within the Crowsnest Pass. If we have weather events

Printer 101 from Mountain Ink What is HP Cartridge Protection? If you’ve purchased an HP Printer, you might notice that the printer won’t allow you to install your compatible and remanufactured cartridge. Is HP trying to block you from using these supplies? Not exactly. On the new HP printers, HP introduced a Cartridge Protection feature that is designed to protect against counterfeit products posing as genuine HP supplies. Unfortunately, it often has the side effect of blocking less expensive compatible and remanufactured supplies. We’ll show you how to disable it with a few simple steps. What is it? HP’s Cartridge Protection feature first started appearing with the HP OfficeJet Pro 8600; it soon began appearing in the Photosmart 5520 series, among others. As we said, it is designed as a protection against counterfeit products masquerading as Genuine HP products. This system will alert users that the cartridge is not genuine, and

www.domesticblisscnp.com

Blow-out Prices

The Pass Pottery Club displayed a variety of eclectic and traditional tableware and art works at their annual Christmas sale on Dec. 7. Photo by J. MacFarlane

Before heading out, remember these safety tips

CNP Protective Services Submitted

is not equipped * Food and Water (energy bars, chocolate, dried fruit, nuts.) If you plan to visit the * First Aid Kit Backcountry and take part in * Water Proof matches and snowmobile or quadding activ- fire starter ities, please be sure to pack for If you are heading to the climate and terrain. Avalanche prone areas, check Plan ahead, plan your routes with www.avalanche.ca for and let someone know where details before you head out. you will be or the general area Winter Driving of your trip. Below are some After a nice spring and sumof the items that you should mer of paved roads, it’s time pack along for the ride. MAKE YOUR LIFE EASIER again for the winter season. * Global Positioning System This means have you winter (GPS) tires installed on your vehicles * Shovel and drive LIFESTYLE MANAGEMENT & with caution. * Map of the area Winter tires should have the CONCIERGE SERVICESsnow flake symbol on the side * Compass * Extra Gloves and Socks * wall and can also be studded. * personal assistant Flashlight with spare batteries Slow down further in advance * Hand and Foot Warmers for intersections or stop signs, * homemaking * Emergency Blanket/Shelter give extra room between you * organizing * Knife and the vehicle in front and * Rope behind in case any of you have * events * Small tool kit if your machine to stop in a hurry.

The gifT of Time We are here To make your life easier

DECEMBER 13 - The Crowsnest Pass Youth Group (Four Twelve – YOUth) is hosting a community concert as a fundraiser for two local families, the Murray’s and the Goods. The concert will feature musical and artistic performances and is at the Crowsnest Christian Centre Church in Coleman at 7 p.m. There is a $5 entrance fee and children under 12 are free. A donation coffee bar with home-baked treats and festive beverages will be set up and after the program, a bake and Christmas craft sale will be held. All the funds raised will go to the Murrays and the Goods.

Centre (2029-130 St. Blairmore) from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Come and pick out gifts for your parents and siblings for a small donation. Wrapping on site. Hot drinks, treats for parents while you visit. All donations will go towards the Compass 2014 Orphanage Mission Trip.

it will also block the cartridge from being used. This is good news for identifying counterfeits. However, it’s an aggravation for users who are blocked from using their legitimate remanufactured and compatible ink cartridges. We’ve covered the many benefits of remanufactured ink cartridges before, and for buyers looking to save money, this can be a real problem. Disabling Cartridge Protection When trying to use remanufactured ink cartridges with these models, the best solution is to disable Cartridge Protection. If you later wish to verify that a cartridge labeled as a Genuine HP product is actually genuine, you can always re-enable the feature. Here are the steps. 1. Click the Start button, and click Devices and Printers. 2. Find your HP printer in the list and double-click it to open the Settings page. 3. Click the text for Estimated Ink Levels under the heading of Shopping Resources. This will open the HP Toolbox window.

4. Click the tab for Cartridge Protection. 5. Click the radio button next to Disable HP Cartridge Protection. 6. Click the Save Setting button to save your new setting. Then, close the window. 7. You may need to remove and reinstall the cartridge for it to be recognized properly. Disabling Cartridge Protection on a Network Printer If your printer is connected via network, rather than a USB port, you can still disable the feature, just follow these steps: 1. Click the Start button, and click Devices and Printers. 2. Find your HP printer in the list and right-click it, then look for the IP address in the Location field. 3. Copy and paste the IP address into your web browser and hit Enter. The embedded web server for your printer should open, with several options to change. 4. Click the Settings tab at the top, then click Cartridge Protection in the left column. 5. Click the radio but-

starting in our area, please log onto www.crowsnestpass.com and look for the road closure information or updates on possible road closures. Early warning can give residents on the other side of the gates able to have children picked up from school and get home before the closure happens. Designated parking has been established with large trucks without Dangerous Goods able to park on 20th Avenue from the Lost Lemmon Bridge to Tim Horton’s and also utilizing 107 Street by the old hospital site working back towards Tim Horton’s. Trucks hauling Dangerous Goods are instructed to stage at the large parking lot in Frank or back to the Burmis Scales.

ton next to Disable Cartridge Protection, and click Apply. You can now close the browser. 6. You may need to remove and reinstall the cartridge for it to be recognized properly. While the HP Cartridge Protection setting is useful for identifying counterfeit printer supplies, it goes a bit too far in blocking users trying to save money with remanufactured and compatible supplies. Luckily, you can disable the setting using the steps above, and if you ever suspect you have a counterfeit supply, just re-enable the setting in order to test it properly. Mountain Ink is your local supplier of printer equipment, brand name & compatible ink & toner cartridges, office supplies and also offers fax, copy and printing services. You can find us at PO Box 508, 2722 216 St Bellevue AB T0K 0C0. For more information or if you have a question or specific topic you would like discussed in this column, contact MJ sales@ mountainink.ca, 403.564.4303, find us on Facebook, follow us on Twitter.

Crowsnest Pass Free Press Thursday, December 12, 2013

I’ll do it tomorrow By Linda Germo Changes

“I’ll do it tomorrow is a common refrain. (And tomorrow never comes, we all know that.) I kept saying it, about getting my health in order, getting my weight in check and before I knew it......60 pounds had crept onto my body! Where the heck did that fat come from? I wasn’t eating junk food, in fact, I was hardly eating! I was working 14 hours plus everyday, so when did I have time to sit down to eat? I would start my day with a bowl of cereal, or a slice of toast and run out the door making sure my family was looked after, then off to my salons to make sure my staff and clients were looked after....never looking

after me! Dinner might be a salad, an apple and a piece of cheese. On days off, I would eat normally, and sometimes overeat. Finally my body ran out of fuel and collapsed, and then I had to pay attention. Eating only a few calories a day, I thought it was enough to keep me going and I thought should have kept me thin. It actually did the opposite. In order for the body to run at full capacity it needs a minimum amount of protein per pound for that particular body, a minimum amount of carbohydrates, at least four cups of vegetables and lettuces each day and a fruit serving. My body was storing everything I ate into fat because it was in starvation mode. So many of our foods today are filled with hidden sugars

that we don’t even realize that we are eating three-quarters of a small freezer bag size of sugar everyday. Think about it - bread, yogurt, soups, dressings, milk, ice cream, cakes, cookies, candies, gum, canned goods, kids treats and the list goes on. Label reading is something I teach at Changes. My clients are surprised to find they thought they were reading labels correctly and found out otherwise. An interesting study has found that a child obesity epidemic is on the rise. We can change this by changing our health. Check in next week for more healthy tips from Changes. Changes is owned and operated by Linda Germo. For more information on Changes weight loss and wellness, please call 403-562-2111.

A Chronicles of times for the Crowsnest Pass By Bill White Prayer Canada Let’s take a look back at our heritage in the Crowsnest Pass. Just from memories and written histories, I want to capsulize some events known to me. In no way would I consider this writing as accurate as historians would validate. The early days saw North American Indians travel the trails over hill and vale and some travel by canoe and water. Saddle horse and wagon, buggies, sleighs were at one time the only way to travel. Trails are still evident, artifacts continually show up and Histories are continually talked of and enjoyed immensely. As settlers came to discover the Pass and to seek out its treasures, the coal seams became evident and bountiful and also became exploited for household heat and cooking became easier and acceptable in all homes by the use of coal for fuel. How wonderful it was in the cold of winter to shanty up backwards to the old coal stoves and potbellied heaters and absorb a type of heat on the hands and posterior that those old stoves would emanate. Oh Glory. Coal became so popular each town saw a coal mine or two come into operation and prosperity became the order of the day. People of almost every country emerged to seek out a living and then sent for their wives and children to join them in their good fortune. Along with this infusion of peoples came the desire to recognize God the Father and Jesus Christ as their source of their quality of life they were used to and their desire to continue their spiritual life. Without fail one of the first buildings to be erected was the local church in each of the towns.

Customarily as today each town saw churches of various denominations arise and flourish – Awesome! Each church in those days would have a wonderful choir, great singers and great old hymns would grace the congregations. The spirit of the church was strong and vibrant. The spirit of the coal miners was also strong in the area of “care and concern” for each person that went underground. This spirit permeated through all the families which also were made up of all nationalities and color and the mining peoples cared for each other. The mines also had their times of tragedies, with the explosions causing much loss of life and the aftermath of that resulted in numerous widows being left to raise families. The “care and concern” spirit had a lot to do with the abilities and faithful friends helping in the raising of families “Praise the Lord”. Modernization finally saw the closing of our mines and multitudes left the area. During the prosperous days of the mines 18 churches in the Pass saw a reasonable success and congregations flourished. And then the days of the exodus of much of what we call the older clan, the miners, the lumberman came into being. Our churches also suffered a decline and now there remains only eight organized congregations in the Pass. This situation has become of great concern to some of us here in Bellevue and we have now registered a body of believers known as “Kingdom First Ministry and Fellowship”. This group will be under the direction of Pastor’s Ray & Donna Block and Pastor Bill White. Services will take place at the Internationale Prayer Centre in Bellevue, regularly on Sunday morning at 11 a.m. and a Wednesday Fellowship night at

7 p.m. e will be available for Christian Counseling · We will be available to perform weddings · We will be available to offer funeral services · We will do hospital visitation regularly · Children’s Sunday school will be available as the demand warrants · We are vitally concerned for youth and teenager activities here and in association with others · Community outreach activities will be forthcoming continually · Doctrinal statements are available We are anxious to serve you. You’ll be glad you came. Be a participant and not an onlooker. The Internationale Prayer Centre has been operating in Bellevue for more than 30 years under the guidance and authority of Prayer Canada. We have represented Canada in Jerusalem at a World Convocation of Prayer where 160 Nations of the World attended. Awesome! We have also toured Canada, being on the road 35 days and visiting 60 Prayer stations and churches. We also visited Bible Colleges in Western Canada for several years addressing students meetings and general public. Watch for our Open House activity at the Prayer Centre very soon. We are so anxious to serve you here in the Pass and simple say, Come One, Come All. Put us to the test and together we will truly be able to call this – A Homecoming. Amen Pastor’s: Ray and Donna Block Pastor: Bill White, The Committee – Kingdom First Ministry Fellowship, Phone 403632-5407, 403-564-4994.

Help us raise funds for a chairlift Meet and Greet - A Vision for the Future Dec. 12 • Ski Lodge • 4:00-7:30pm

rget Don’t foyour to buypass ski

eet) meet & gr e at the

An opportunity to see the future plans for our ski hill and how the community can get involved in our fundraising efforts.

(availabl

Alberta’s Affordable Family Ski Area

Phone: (403) 562.8334 www.passpowderkeg.com Crowsnest Pass, Alberta. Canada Located off Hwy #3 Crowsnest Pass, Southern Alberta’s Hidden Treasure

Santa in the Park

Sunday Dec 15 • 1-3pm at the Bellevue Memorial Park Hotdogs, hot chocolate, games and a visit from ‘Ol Saint Nick

Brought to you by Bellcrest Community Association and Sponsored by Sobeys

Thursday, December 12, 2013 Crowsnest Free Press

Stone’s Throw Café All Day Breakfast

Open every day 7am-5pm Sunday 10-4pm 13019-20th Avenue, Crowsnest Pass, AB

Ph/Fax 403-562-2230

www.stonesthrowcafe.ca

Crowsnest Cafe and Fly Shop Dine in or Take Away

Organic Breakfasts , Lunches and Sweets made from scratch. Bold flavours from around the world : featuring foods from China,India, Mexico, Thailand... Fine Rooibos Teas ,Free trade Coffees... famous Breakfast Bagel...

SALE IN FLYSHOP

10%-35% Off Selected Items Fly Fishing Rods, G. Loomis T.F.O, Reels, Vests, Waders, Boots and Flies! Patagonia, Fishpond, Loomis, Hardy Winter Hours: Wed-Sun 8-5 Gift certificates available Healthy food on Highway #3

403-563-8510

www.crowsnestcafeandflyshop.ca

Quality Ingredients, Pizza by thee slice availabl for lunch

Better Pizza! ...now that’s good food!

FIVE R I V E R S PIZZA

(403)564-4545

11001-20th Ave., Blairmore, AB (next to the Bargain Shop) Hours: Sun. 11am-9pm, Mon. Closed, Tues. & Wed. 3-10pm, Thurs.-Sat. 11am-11pm

Have you booked your Christmas Party Yet?

Crowsnest Pass Eat & Drink CHEF DEZ ON COOKING

Culinary Stocking Stuffer Ideas Being a man, I am sometimes mistakenly slotted into the stereotype of a last minute shopper. Nothing could be further than the truth. Hurriedly pushing my way through the crowds at the mall on December 24th is not how I want to spend the eve before Christmas. Therefore to help you avoid this ordeal I am offering you some stocking stuffer ideas for the hobby chef on your list. Zester - This is a hand tool that removes the aromatic coloured segment of the peel from citrus fruits while leaving the white bitter pith part on the fruit. Great for adding extra citrus flavour to almost any recipe, or to enhance garnishing presentation. Mini Whisk – Approximately the same size of a ball point pen. It always comes in handy for small whisking applications like mixing individual drinks, beating one egg, or small amounts of sauce. I have even seen ones that are attached to a key chain hoop. Melon Baller – Great for its intended purpose of creating bite-size balls of melon, but works just as well on cheeses and an assortment of fruits and vegetables. Caramelized balls of potato, for example, makes for an appealing side dish. Olive Pitter – This tool resembles a pair of spring-loaded pliers. It has a circular base to hold an olive on one of the ends, and a prod on the other. When squeezed together, the prod inserts into the olive and pushes the pit through the opposite side. It works great on cherries too. Garlic Press – I have gone through many poorly made garlic presses in the past, but there is one brand that has never let me down. I highly recommend the Switzerland made “Zyliss” brand. I have literally crushed hundreds of cloves with this brand, for the past five years, with out fail. Apple Corer – Simply push this tubular tool through the center of an apple or pear, and proceed with slicing… or eating. Butcher’s Twine – Not only great for trussing stuffed turkeys, but also for chickens and a variety of stuffed roasts, meats, and seafood too. Silicone Spatula – Silicone kitchen tools like spatulas and bowl scrapers are great because they can withstand high heat temperatures and they are very flexible. Fantastic for omelets, where ones made of rubber or plastic would melt in the hot pan. Dough Scraper – A flat-edged tool that easily scrapes dough or flour together on the counter. They are available in metal or plastic. Great for anyone that likes to bake. Lemon Reamer – A wooden hand held tool to efficiently juice lemons or limes.

Please call 403-563-5555 for reservation

up to 80 seats available. Visit our Facebook page daily specials

The Best Western Fusion Restaurant in the Pass.

Popiel’s

R E S TAU R A N T 8329 20th Ave Coleman, AB 403 563 5555

Call Chris to reserve your spot on our Eat and Drink Page (250)509-0177

Peking & Cantonese Cuisine Western Food - Fully Licensed

free DeLiVerY on orders over $65 (before tax) within Blairmore

10% Off

on cash pick up over $65 (before tax) our book yw for o party n as & christmear’s new Y

Lunch buffet

tuesday - friday 11am-2pm

Dinner buffet

friday & Saturday 5pm-8:30pm hours: Sun. 11am-9pm, Tues.-Sat. 11am-9:30pm, Mon. closed

Ben Wong Restaurant and Grill Ben

13249 20th Ave., Blairmore, AB

(403)562-8388

Dine in - tAKe Out - DeLiVerY

Specials 11-8pm

Wednesday-Steak Day 7 oz NEW YORK Thursday-Pasta (including Spaghetti or Baked Lasagna) Friday - Homemade Fish and Chips Saturday - BBQ RIB Night

Pick Up Orders 403-564-4522

I hope this helps relieve some of your shopping burdens. The kitchen section of department stores and smaller specialty stores are filled with many great gift ideas – who knows, you may even run into me! Dear Chef Dez: I noticed that many Chefs on TV use a flat grater that lays across a bowl to remove zest from citrus fruits. Is the best way to do this? Charlotte E. Surrey, BC Dear Charlotte: I actually recommend using a “zester”. It is a hand tool that has five little circular blades at the end. When it is dragged across a citrus fruit, it produces beautiful curls of zest while leaving the bitter pith behind. Although flat graters remove the zest in small bits, and thus prevent further chopping, there is no guarantee that one will not grate too far into the bitter white pith. Besides, the curls of zest make great garnish! Send your food/cooking questions to dez@chefdez.com or P.O. Box 2674, Abbotsford, BC V2T 6R4 Chef Dez is a Food Columnist, Culinary Instructor & Cooking Show Performer. Visit him at www.chefdez.com

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