The Free Press, December 26, 2013 by Black Press Media Group

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Thursd a y , De cem b er 2 6 , 2013

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

FREE

GHOSTRIDERS

Mario Rocca receives Spiritus award Merry Christmas from the Ghostriders - Page 3 ELK VALLEY

Bennett wins fourth term as MLA Page 19 SPARWOOD

Sparwood receives investment - Page 23

FERNIE

Mary Christmoose Page 2

COMMUNITY

Financial assistance for flood damage Page 20

Anne Majic, Geri Rocca, Mario Rocca, Anna Gris, Dryden Gris and Mayor Mary Giuliano celebrate the George S. Majic Spiritus award at a ceremony at City Hall. Photo by A. Horton By Andrea Horton Free Press Staff

n December 16 at a quaint gathering at City Hall, the George S. Majic Spiritus award was presented to this year’s recipient, Mario Rocca. The award is presented annually in memory of long-time Fernie resident George Majic. It was inspired by his family and friends in Sault Ste. Marie, Ontario where George first won the Spiritus award

when he was 16 years old. “This year’s recipient was really honoured,” said Mayor Mary Giuliano. “It is a privilege for us at council to be able to honour someone from this community because it is people like Mr. Rocca that make this community what it is.” Rocca has been involved with the Rod and Gun Club for 45 years where he works with children; he is a member of the Elks and he has done snow removal for seniors in the community for years.

“He is the kind of guy that if you have mechanical problems with your vehicle, he will fix it for you, no problem,” said Giuliano. “He just goes about his business and that is what this award is about, honouring somebody who doesn’t get accolades; they just go about their business quietly.” Rocca graciously accepted the award noting that his wife, Geri, also deserves recognition as she has stood beside him all through the years.

This award is especially meaningful to Rocca as he knew Majic personally. In the beginning the awards that were given to the recipients were made out of granite from Sault Ste. Marie. This year the City of Fernie had Adam Rigby make new awards out of rock from Fernie. The awards are in the shape of a mountain. The original award with all the recipients’ names on it can be found at the Fernie Heritage Library.

www.thefreepress.ca

THE FREE PRESS Thursday, December 26, 2013

Mary Christmoose!

The

By Tamara Hynd Free Press Staff

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R DE K Ho liday Hours

Fernie Transfer Station

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

December 31 January 1

9:00am to 4:00 pm Closed

Sparwood Transfer Station

(New Hours Effective January 2, 2014: 9:00am to 5:00pm Monday to Saturday)

December 27 to 30 December 31 January 1 January 2

10:00 am to 5:00 pm 10:00 am to 4:00 pm Closed 9:00am to 5:00pm

Elkford Transfer Station

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

December 26 to 27 January 1 January 2-3

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

RDEK Cranbrook Office

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

December 31 January 1

t will be a good Christmas for Mary, the calf moose named by West Fernie residents. Mary the moose was successfully translocated on Dec. 16 by the Fernie Conservation Officer Service (COS). “It was reported to conservation officers through the RAPP line and from personal calls that the female calf moose was living in the West Fernie area in peoples back yards,” said Conservation Officer Patrica Burley. “The cow was known to be struck and killed on Hwy 3 just west of Fernie. The calf has been living around people since then for the last 3-4 months.” The translocation of ungulates is not a common practice for the CO’s to conduct. “The immobilization drugs can be hard on the animal causing them more stress and a difficult recovery,” said Burley. “Not all ungulates that are immobilized and translocated recover from the drugs or survive in their new surroundings.” The B.C. provincial wildlife vet, wildlife biologists and COS do not support the public feeding wildlife such as deer and moose in residential areas. It is the same concept as bears; the wildlife becomes habituated to people (lose their fear) and become dependent on people for food. Some people had been hand feeding the moose.

Photo submitted by Conservation Officer Service

“Mary was being fed continuously by West Fernie residents,” said Burley. “Even though people may think they are helping the young calf, they are doing more damage to it by making it comfortable around humans. The calf had reportedly charged and stomped at residents which reminds people how dangerous they can be.” Mary is a Shiras moose weighing approximately 113136 kilograms, but will grow to weigh about 226 kgs. (500 lbs). Shiras moose in the southern eastern areas of B.C. are genetically smaller than the Western/Canada and Alaska moose found in northern B.C., the Yukon and Alaska. For public safety reasons the CO’s removed the calf to an area north of Sparwood

at Ken Musil’s ranch. Musil has accepted three other translocated moose in the past to start off on his property before moving on to live normal lives. Mary will be corralled and will be fed willows, straw and maybe a carrot or two to regain her strength. She will likely stay on the ranch for the winter to make it through the harsh weather conditions. In the spring she will be free to graze and move on. Musil has cattle and horses on his ranch and the three previous relocated moose were not a problem with the farm animals. The COS would like to thank the volunteer’s that helped with the relocation of Mary the Christmas moose and thank Ken Musil for his generous help with orphaned moose.

Dino opener track meet Submitted

asstrak’s first track meet of the indoor season was hosted by the University of Calgary Dinos on Saturday, December 14. Five Passtrak athletes attended and took part in 12 events. Mosese Ratudradra ran three races in the 10-year-old boy’s category. He placed eighth in the 800 m, eighth in the 150 m and fifth in the 60 m which he ran in 10.99 seconds, a mere 4/100 of a second off his personal best. Tim Jorgensen ran in the

New Year’s

TIDINGS

8:30am to 3:00pm Closed

For more information, contact the RDEK at 1-888-478-7335

Mary the moose who was relocated from west Fernie to a ranch north of Sparwood on Dec. 16.

Guardian First Aid Service LTD

11-year-old boys category where he finished seventh in the 60 m in 9.55 seconds and sixth in the 150 m in 23.86 seconds. This was Tim’s first official indoor competition so he set new personal bests in both races. Zion Ratudradra ran two races in the 13-year-old boy’s age group. He finished twelfth in the 150 m in 23.37 seconds and fifth in the 800 m in 2:52.97. Alisi Ratudradra competed in the girls 14-year-old division. She placed sixth in the 60m hurdles in 10.58 seconds just 5/100 of a second from a life-

When the party finally comes to an end, know that our wish for you remains. May you reach for the stars and may all of your dreams come true.

Elkford, BC • 250-425-5946 • email - guard1fa@telus.net

time best. She then ran the 200 m in 29.19 seconds for fourth place and also finished fourth in the 60 m in 8.64 seconds only 9/100 of a second from her current personal best. Tate Kenny is a newcomer to Passtrak and this was his first official competition. He placed seventh in the 800 m in the 15-year-old boys age group. His time was 2:53.55. He then finished sixth in the 200 m in 29.22 seconds. The next competition for Passtrak is scheduled for January 4 also in Calgary.

Happy New Year ALL THE BEST TO YOU AND YOURS FOR 2014! from the staff at the Causeway Bay

102 Red Cedar Dr, Sparwood • 250-425-2003

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THE FREE PRESS Thursday, December 26, 2013

Tragic ending for missing CP Holiday Train garners support for Pincher Creek man By Joni MacFarlane The Crowsnest Pass Free Press

incher Creek RCMP announced that the body of missing Pincher Creek resident Taylor Elliott was found on the morning of Tuesday, Dec. 17. RCMP said the deceased was located near his residence and no foul play was suspected. Elliott had been missing since 4:30 am on Dec. 1 and, after the official search and rescue effort was called off, volunteers and private individuals from the

surrounding communities went out daily combing the area. Search coordinator Rod Sinclair told The Crowsnest Pass Free Press earlier that the weather had been against them since the beginning of the search. A private helicopter joined the search for two hours on Dec. 12 but had to be shut down because of high winds. Elliott disappeared on foot without a trace in the early morning hours of Sunday,

Dec. 1 just as a heavy snow storm enveloped southern Alberta. Since then, the area had been plagued with extreme temperatures and severe winds with blowing snow. Pincher Creek RCMP would like to thank the community for their support during the many searches following Elliott's disappearance. Next of kin have been notified and the family has requested not to be contacted by media.

Merry Christmas from the Fernie Ghostriders

The Fernie Ghostriders wish their fans a safe and happy holiday week! Don’t miss their next home game on Saturday, December 28 against their archrivals, Kimberley. Row 1: Phoenix Logan-Hill, Kurtis Bond, Spencer Bender, Austin Wells, Ben Primeau, Blake Arcuri and Dylan Robertson. Row 2: Jake MacLachlan, Anthony Gilbert, Josh Teves, Josh Odelein and Kale Johnston Row 3: Randy Teeple, Brendan Bell, Aidan Geiger and Austin Hirano Row 4: Colby Burns, Joel Burgess, Aaron Neufeld, Cole Weber and Jon Thompson. Absent: Travis Thomsen, Cole Keebler and Matt MacDonald. Photo by S. Moulton

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Tuesday: 9:15 – 10:00 am 10:15 – 11:00 am 12:05 – 12:50 pm 5:15 – 6:00 pm

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Sparwood food bank By Jenna Jensen Contributor

undreds of residents gathered around to catch sight of the CP Holiday Train on December 10 as it rolled into Sparwood. The train not only brought in amazing entertainment, a visit from Santa and an astounding display of lights, but also proved how important supporting the local food bank is to everyone. As the Sparwood Lions Club served up hot chocolate during the chilly afternoon, hearts were warmed by the outstanding display of support for the food bank as several parties made significant and generous donations. CP Rail donated $10,000; Tammy Ogden from Teck offered a cheque for $5,000; Alex Hanson from the United Steel Workers gave $1,500 and Bruce Doey on behalf of CUPE gave $500 to each the food bank and Toys for Tots program. One thousand dollars was given from the Sparwood Futures Society; $250 for each Toys for Tots and food bank from the District of Sparwood. On behalf of the Emergency Services Food Drive, Ed Ehrler was pleased to announce that they collected double the food donations

from last year and were proud to be able to gather these food and monetary contributions from the community. Those attending the event brought grocery bags full of donations, filling a old rail cart to the brim. As Sparwood Mayor Lois Halko took the stage, she gave thanks to the CP Holiday Train and all of the volunteers for making a stop in Sparwood and for all of the generous support and recognition it brought to local food banks in the area. Sparwood Food Bank Coordinator Carol Walmsley accepted the donations, and was given the opportunity to address the crowd. She said she was 'blown away', and commended the community and the CP Holiday Train for the generous support. "We need it, and it is there. The community is so good to us, and everybody has reached out,” said Walmsley. “We are able to help during this time of year, and through the year with all of the support. We never have turn people away, or look at empty shelves. When people come in to use the food bank, they are also very thankful for all of the support."

Many families gathered around the holiday train and brought heaping bags of food to support the food bank. Photo by J. Jensen 6:00 – 6:50 pm 7:00 – 8:00 pm Wednesday: 9:15 – 10:15 am 10:15 – 11:15 am 12:05 – 12:50 pm 4:00 – 5:00 pm

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THE FREE PRESS Thursday, December 26, 2013

Happy New Year

Join us at the Lamplighter with

Mark Lorenz

Province proposes grizzly hunting around Kimberley, Fernie, Sparwood and Elkford By Sally MacDonald Townsman Staff

Back by popular demand

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!

College of the Rockies n Fernie Campus

Health Care Assistant

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). 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

fter a summer where Kimberley saw grizzly bears roaming through town, the B.C. government is proposing to re-open limited entry hunting for grizzly bears in the St. Mary River Valley. It's one of two areas in the East Kootenay – the other is around Fernie, Sparwood and Elkford – that could be reopened to grizzly hunting after a two-year sabbatical. “The areas where resumed hunting is being proposed have stable to increasing grizzly populations that can sustain a conservative hunt,” said Andrew Wilson, Director of B.C.'s Fish, Wildlife and Habitat Management Branch within the Ministry of Forests, Lands and Natural Resource Operations. “If hunting or other grizzly mortality exceeds mortality estimates, the hunt can be reduced or even completely closed, as has been done previously.” The government is proposing that limited entry hunting could be reopened next spring in Management Units 4-20 – the St. Mary Valley and around Skookumchuck – and 4-23 – in the Elk Valley - to allow the harvest of five grizzlies each year for three years. This target could be altered if more grizzlies are killed than the target, either through hunting or rail and road kills. “Because we recognize inherent uncertainty in our population and harvest rate estimates, conservative mortality targets are used as well as other important sources of information,” said Wilson. Grizzly hunting in the two areas was closed in 2011 because more bears – specifically female bears – had been killed than the province thought was necessary to maintain the population. The Fish and Wildlife Branch asks hunters to select male grizzlies. Grizzly hunting remains permitted in other parts of the East Kootenay. In 2012, the province issued 3,716 tags across B.C., but only 250

grizzlies were harvested. The Ministry conducted a study of the grizzly bear population in the South Rockies, with the report published in September. “The proposal to open these hunts is based on the best available science, as are all grizzly bear hunt decisions,” said Wilson. In the Elk Valley, two men were attacked by a grizzly bear on Mount Proctor in July. The pair were hiking when attacked by a sow without knowing she was nearby. After first using bear spray, one of the men shot and injured the bear, which fled. They suffered wounds to the arms and legs. In October, two hikers came across a sow and two cubs feeding on a moose on the Galloway trail. When the sow charged the hikers, one of the men shot and injured the bear. Trails in the area where closed for a week. Local wildlife ecologist Bob Jamieson, a resident of Ta Ta Creek, said all of these encounters with grizzlies indicate there is a healthy population in the Rocky Mountain Trench. “We closed the fall grizzly bear hunting season back in the 1970s and it allowed these bears to recover and they've been managed very conservatively for 30 years now. And the population has recovered. It's a huge success,” said Jamieson. “Our dilemma here in the Kootenays is this: how do we balance maintaining a healthy bear population, including many bears living in the trench, where they constitute a the risk to people who live in the rural areas in the main valley?” Jamieson has prepared a report, “Grizzly bear numbers in southern B.C., Alberta and northern Montana,” detailing the grizzly population in the region. According to Jamieson's report, there are now more than 900 grizzlies in the East Kootenay. In the Crown of the Continent region – the Waterton and Flathead areas and northern Montana – there

are an estimated 1,226 bears. In the Canadian Rockies there are an estimated 1,309 bears, and west of the Rocky Mountain Trench there are an estimate 1,767 bears, for a total of 4,302 bears. “One of the pieces of the puzzle is that most people don't realize just how many bears we have now. Grizzly bears are certainly not a species at risk anymore. We have a very healthy population that is producing an excess of bears that are moving into human occupied areas. "If you don't like hunting, you need to realize that by opposing hunting, you are not saving a bear's life. It just means the conservation officers will have to shoot it instead of the hunter,” said Jamieson. A former outfitter and rancher, Jamieson said that when he first moved to the East Kootenay 40 years ago, people would talk for a week if they saw a grizzly bear track. “From my window I'm looking out at the Kootenay River and a month ago I had a grizzly bear feeding on a dead horse right in my view,” said Jamieson. “I expect to carry a rifle or bear spray when I'm up the White River or up the St. Mary's. But I don't think it's very good for bears or people if we have to grab a bear spray when we want out of the house to walk the dog.” Jamieson supports the province's proposal to reopen the grizzly bear hunt around Kimberley and in the Elk Valley to manage this population growth. “I would suggest it's time we stabilized the grizzly bear population and that means we should be harvesting more of them. But that's a hard sell with some people, especially with people who live in Victoria who can feel good about saving grizzly bears but don't have to live with the consequences of having them in your backyard.” You can read Jamieson's report in full at www.dailytownsman. com.

Many thanks for your patronage this year. Here’s to holidays made merry with the best of friends.

FERNIE FORD SALES LTD. 1492 Hwy. #3 Box 2440, Fernie, BC 250-423-9211 fx. 250-423-3339

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Fitness for Christmas at Chrysalis House Women in Mining join with Teck and Canadian Tire to finish shelter. By Sara Moulton Free Press Staff

he Elk Valley Women in Mining (WIM) group and Teck Coal have provided healthy Christmas cheer to a local safehome. WIM arranged for the furnishing of a new fitness room at Chrysalis House in Fernie, a facility that provides support for women and children who are escaping domestic violence. The original aim was to collect Canadian Tire money throughout 2013 to purchase necessities for the shelter, but the work of WIM member Barb Anderson resulted in Teck Coal purchasing three major pieces of fitness equipment to allow the women at Chrysalis House to work out in a safe environment. Canadian Tire matched the $180 of Canadian Tire money that was raised by the group, allowing the purchase of a 32-inch television to be mounted on the fitness room

wall. The Fernie Ghostriders volunteered their time to pick up and install the treadmill, elliptical and exercise bike for the shelter.

“It’s perfect; I feel like I’ve won the lottery! I’m going to use the equipment all the time.”

Chrysalis House tenant

“This was (Anderson’s) initiative; it was her vision and her interaction with Teck that actually resulted in the equipment being furnished by Teck Coal.”

Jo-Anna Singleton President of WIM

For the tenants of Chrysalis House, the new fitness room is a welcome addition to the facility. “It’s perfect; I feel like I’ve

won the lottery! I’m going to use the equipment all the time,” said one of the women. While the effort involved a large number of individuals, WIM President Jo-Anna Singleton praised Anderson for taking the lead on the project and thanked Teck Coal for their generous contribution. “This was (Anderson’s) initiative; it was her vision and her interaction with Teck that actually resulted in the equipment being furnished by Teck Coal,” said Singleton. “It really makes me glad to be a part of the Elk Valley Women in Mining group.” WIM was established in May 2012 and has a commitment to help other groups in the Elk Valley, particularly those that cater for women. Further details about their work can be found at www. elkvalleywim.com while information on the Fernie Women’s Resource Centre can be found at www. ferniewomenscentre.com.

THE FREE PRESS Thursday, December 26, 2013

wo is Three. It is official. So for the next several months I have Three and Four. When people ask me their ages now I get a new reaction…the ‘wow’ face. As in wow, they’re close. Yes, they are. And lately it is not just in age. I am watching the metamorphosis of an Shelby Cain entirely new relationship unfold right before my eyes, and I have to say it’s fascinating. Sisters. I grew up with brothers and while I love my brothers deeply and would do anything for them, rarely have I ever told them this. Usually we target weaknesses and mock each other relentlessly. Sisters are different. Fiercely loyal. Fiercely fierce. Here’s an example. Three got a mother load of new toys for her birthday. She’s been sharing quite well with her older sister, because now they are “best sista buddies in the wold!” (Still working on the R’s). So the sister-buddies were playing a lovely game of horse-corral with some plastic horses when Four decides she needs an extra horse. Three disagrees, and then gets whacked in the face with a very hard Appaloosa. A small spot of blood appears on Three’s face. The scream starts to build like a tsunami warning horn and projectile tears erupt. The blood, mixed with the fact that Three was sharing so nicely, really boils my blood so I scoop Four off the floor and send her to her room with a pretty harsh farewell. Three comes over with her streaming tears and microscopic spot of blood and through her sobs croaks out “Mommy, don’t be so mean to my big sista.” Sisters. At their young age, they seem to have this grudge free relationship with the flexibility to literally go from hugging to slugging and back again. When Four was allowed back in to the public arena Three went over and handed her the Appaloosa, still bearing a red speck from the now-forgotten incident, and horse-corral commenced. As I watched this whole interaction unfold I felt a slight twinge of envy. I read once that siblings are the people we practice on. Sisters take it to another level. How amazing to have a lifelong litmus test of your own behavior. Be your best or be your worst, your sister will tell you what is acceptable, sometimes loudly, and then proceed with life, with your relationship, with horse-corral. I realize that I am probably in for a rough ride when the teenage years commence. I expect more bloodshed when the sharing of clothes, friends, skis, and probably (shudder) boys occurs. But hopefully I have a few more years to impart the value of their precious bond and to finish up my needlepoint ‘Sisters Before Misters’ pillows.

The Parent Trip

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

Holiday Hours The District Ofﬁce, Community Conference Centre, Recreation Centre, Aquatic Centre and Public Works will be closed December 25th and 26th, 2013 and January 1, 2014. For assistance while closed please see the On Call Notice posted on the District of Elkford boards, go to our website at www.elkford.ca or call 250.910.4026.

Registration is now open for our Winter Programs. Please call 250.865.4010 or stop by the Elkford Community Conference Centre to register.

Upcoming Council and Committee Meetings •January 13 •January 27

Regular Council @ 6 pm Regular Council @ 6 pm

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

Community Conference Centre Toboggan Hill, Lighted every evening! 5:00 PM - 10:00 PM. Outdoor Rink is now open daily! Shinny 10:00 AM – 1:00 PM Public Skating 1:00 PM – 7:00 PM Shinny 7:00 PM – 10:00 PM.

Winter Parking Bylaw The District is unable to deliver the best level of service when vehicles are parked on highways, roadways or lanes. The District asks you to please park your vehicle(s) in your driveway or parking lot, as empty roadways allow snow plows to do a better job and ensure room for sanding equipment to cover more space. To achieve efﬁciencies in snow removal and to reduce unequal windrow distribution while plowing, on-street parking is prohibited from 6:00 AM to 4:00 PM, November 1 to March 31. Parking on the street during snow plowing, snow removal, snow hauling, or sanding is prohibited. It is an offence to push, place or throw snow or ice upon a highway, roadway or lane.

Business License Renewals The 2014 Business Licence Renewals have been sent out. The Annual Business Licence fee is $100, but if payment is received by January 15th, 2014, the fee to renew the licence is reduced to $75. If you have a 2013 Business Licence and do not receive your 2014 renewal notice, please contact the District Ofﬁce at 250.865.4000.

Dog Licence Renewals

The 2014 Dog License Renewals will be sent out within the next few weeks. The fee is $25.00 or $11.00 for a spayed or neutered dog license. A late fee of $5.00 will be charged if the license is not purchased by the end of February 2014. If you are a new pet owner, you are required to purchase a licence for your dog. For the ﬁrst time registration please bring the certiﬁcate of spaying/neutering.

THE FREE PRESS Thursday, December 26, 2013

Opinion

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

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ADMINISTRATION/ CONTRIBUTOR

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By Tamara Hynd Free Press Staff

etters form words, words form sentences, sentences can turn into expression of ideas, thoughts, opinions, which can then be sent in a letter. We appreciate your comments on our web page, Facebook and Twitter. We love hearing from you. We invite you to send letters to our editor. It doesn't have to be a rant. If you like something we've covered in

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Love your letters

by Andrea Horton

Happy holidays from all of us here at The Free Press. It’s hard to believe that we are in the midst of celebrating Christmas 2013 and are preparing for another new year. The older I get, the faster time goes. This is our year in review issue so let’s take a look back at 2013 our 115th year of serving the Elk Valley. In the beginning of 2013 we saw a big corporation invest millions of dollars into our Elko sawmill, the opening of Fernie’s first naturopathic clinic and we welcomed baby Nolan, Fernie’s first baby of the New Year, to town. In January 2013 City Council agreed to form a committee to begin addressing concerns about the possibility that Fernie may have additional burial sites outside of St. Margaret’s Cemetery; the committee is scheduled to meet sometime in January 2014. We were elated when a Fernie teen “rolled up the rim” and won a car. Our hearts broke when we read about the dog in Elko that was poisoned after eating Draino that was covered in saran wrap and disguised with some kind of meat. We celebrated with George and Beth Nixon when they won our Valentines Day Sweetheart Deal contest and we congratulated the Ghostriders’ head coach, Barry Wolff when he was named the Eddie Mountain Division Coach of the Year. We watched the Randall Hopley trial unfold as he pleaded guilty to abduction of a child under 14 and break and enter in connection to the September 7, 2011 abduction of threeyear-old Kienan Hebert from the boy’s home in Sparwood. We followed the 2013 Provincial Election with baited breath to see Bill Bennett win his fourth term as MLA. We spent days reporting on all of the flooding that took place in the Elk Valley last summer and reminisced about the days of old when the Fernie Museum renovations were unveiled. We watched as the famous Elkford white bear was shipped off to it’s new home at the Calgary zoo. Congratulations again to Terry Hume for organizing Sparwood’s first ever Parkinson Walk that raised a whopping $16,000. Which brings us to December. This month has been full of stories ranging from local heroes to unfairly treated workers. We hope that we have done our jobs well throughout 2013 and look forward to serving the Elk Valley next year and beyond.

Angela Treharne

the paper, please send us a short rave. For example, if you liked seeing your favourite chemistry teacher being taped to a post, all in the name of charity of course, let us know. We'd love to hear from you. Email your letter to the editor at editor@ thefreepress.ca or send us a private message on Facebook. Please remember to include your full name, town of residence and a contact number so we can reach you for clarity sake.

Banff Mountain Film Festival showing Jan 3 By Tamara Hynd Free Press Staff

nce again the Vogue Theatre in Fernie is hosting the Banff Mountain Film Festival World Tour (BMFF). Typically known as a display of inspiring feats in visually stunning surroundings, this two and a half hour compilation of the best films from the festival in Banff will enthral and entertain you. The Vogue Theatre owners, Roxana and Dennis Djonlich, make the tough choices narrowing down the film selection. “My husband and I

personally watch each film,” said Roxana. “We select the best of all of the films played at the BMFF. It is amazing to watch some people battle the elements and show off some real talents. I think what people like most is being able to see the true spirit and sheer drive of some of the climbers, skiers and humanity at its best.” There will be two showings on Friday, Jan. 3, 2014 at 6 pm and 9 pm. Tickets are $15 each and now on sale at The Guides Hut and the Vogue Theatre during business hours. For a visually stunning preview, visit http://youtu. be/wEC4TKfBGhc.

Smile for the camera By Tamara Hynd Free Press Staff

William Fernie hand wrote letters to his sister in England during the late 1800’s. Photo by T. Hynd

Teck donates tennis equipment to schools Submitted

sabelle Dicken Elementary school (IDES) gets over a $1000 worth of tennis equipment as tennis booms in Fernie The equipment, which is to be shared between IDES and Fernie Secondary school will give over 600 kids access to tennis equipment which is tailored to their size and helps makes tennis easier to learn.

Some features include lower nets, small lighter rackets and bigger slower bouncing tennis balls. Tennis is being adopted by all the schools in Fernie as a sport for life program. Thanks to Tennis Canada who have provided funding for the program and Fernie Tennis Coaching who have made learning the sport so much fun. For more information visit www.tennisfernie.com

he City of Fernie is inviting your opinion regarding their potential use of video surveillance cameras in the Fernie downtown area. The six question survey touches on privacy issues; whether or not you believe video cameras should be used in public areas like streets, parks, and private property for law enforcement purposes, as long as the cameras would not be used for general surveillance purposes. If you feel this is an invasion of privacy, this is your chance to be heard. The survey is open until 9 am on January 6 so don’t wait too long to visit the site if you have an opinion on the matter. On Nov. 25 Council

directed staff that the installation of video surveillance cameras in the downtown core to assist in crime control was to be made a top priority. “The survey is part of the public process to see if residents are in favour of cameras or not,” said Jim Hendricks City of Fernie CAO. “Staff has done a bunch of the leg work already; we have talked to a local supplier. Once the rest of the background information is in place we can pull the trigger.” The City of Fernie is inviting citizens to submit their comments to Council on the use of surveillance cameras by completing an online survey at www.fernie.ca or go directly to http://fernie. crayon.ca/web/Fernie/ F e r n i e / Te m p l a t e s / news-detail.aspx?id= 10039&preview=true

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THE FREE PRESS Thursday, December 26, 2013

THE YEAR IN REVIEW

JANUARY 2013

Fernie’s first baby of the new year By Nicole Obre Free Press Staff

aby Nolan’s unexpected and early arrival caught his parents off guard, but it made him the very first Elk Valley baby of 2013! Not anticipating the appearance of their son quite so soon, new parents Penelope Simpson and Mathew Bennett were still washing freshly purchased baby clothes and preparing a room in their Annex home when Penelope went into labour, two weeks early. “We kind of had contractions start and then stop, and then we came in [to the hospital] and went home,” Penelope said. “Then we came back and they were understaffed, but we weren’t sure of the roads going into Cranbrook, so we stayed at home until 7 am until it was time to come back.” The couple returned to the Elk Valley Hospital early on Thursday, January 10, and at 11:48 am Nolan Patrick Bennett was born.

Weighing in at just 5 lbs 15 oz. the delighted new parents can’t believe how tiny Nolan is. Penelope commented, “I expected fairly small because I was measuring under the fiftieth percentile and neither one of us is very tall, but I was not expecting five pounds; I thought maybe six or seven.” Regardless of size, Penelope and Mathew are just happy Nolan arrived safe, healthy, and without any complications, even though he was a bit ahead of schedule. “We were nervous if it had been even earlier because the operating room was closed until January 7,” said Penelope. “The staff and everyone were really good and helpful, and everyone said it was pretty textbook.” She went on to say, “We did it luckily without any kind of drugs or intervention.” Now with a new family member to focus on, Mathew will continue to work as an electrical engineer at Greenhills Mine, while Penelope is handing off her commercial insurance work

Proud new parents Mathew Bennett and Penelope Simpson with Fernie’s first baby of 2013, Nolan Bennett. Photo by N. Obre

at Falkins Insurance to the rest of the staff. “They’re all really supportive taking over the workload now,” remarked Penelope, “Especially earlier than expected.”

As for baby Nolan, he’s hardly made a peep since meeting his mom and dad. “He barely even cried. He learned to cry, and then he stopped,” Penelope said. “He

has definitely been exceeding my expectations.” Mathew added with a smile, “he’s really quiet and really small.”

Fernie Memorial Arena 250-423-4666 ext. 228 Fernie Aquatic Centre 250-423-4466 www.fernie.ca

NEW LOCATION!!!

CITY OF FERNIE

LEISURE SERVICES

Fernie Leisure Services Department Ofﬁces, Facility Booking & Special Events Now located at the COURT HOUSE 401 – 4TH Avenue Fernie BC Telephone: 250-423-2245 (Located on the main ﬂoor across from Service BC.)

TER REGISAY! TOD

Indoor fun all winter long! Visit www.fernie.ca for public swim and skate schedules

Fernie Aquatic Centre 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

4:00pm - 5:00pm 4:00pm - 5:00pm 4:00pm - 5:00pm

Polar Bear Swim Come for a dip in ice cold waters! Lots of PRIZES!! Tuesday December 31 at 6:00pm Regular admission rates apply! Holiday Hours Dec 23 6:30am - 8:00pm Dec 24 6:30am - 3:00pm Dec 25/26 CLOSED Dec 27 6:30am - 8:00pm Dec 28/29 2:00pm - 8:00pm Dec 30/31 6:30am -8:00pm Jan 1 CLOSED Jan 2/3 6:30am - 8:00pm Jan 6 – Spring Break Mon – Fri 6:30am - 1:00pm 3:30pm - 8:00pm

Fernie Memorial Arena Holiday Schedule Youth Shinny - Holiday Hours Dec 23 Dec 24 Dec 27 Dec 30/31

11:30am – 1:00pm 11:30am – 1:00pm 11:30am – 1:00pm 11:30am – 1:00pm

Jan 2/3

11:30am – 1:00pm

Adult Shinny - Holiday Hours Dec 23 Dec 24 Dec 27 Dec 30/31

8:45am – 10:15am 8:45am – 10:15am 8:45am – 10:15am 8:45am – 10:15am

Jan 2/3

8:45am – 10:15am

Public Skating - Holiday Hours Dec 23 Dec 24 Dec 25/26 Dec 27 Dec 28/29 Dec 30/31

1:30pm – 3:00pm 1:30pm – 3:00pm CLOSED 1:30pm – 3:00pm 2:00pm - 3:45pm 1:30pm – 3:00pm

Jan 1 Jan 2/3 Jan 4/5

CLOSED 6:30pm – 3:00pm 2:00pm - 3:45pm

Women In Mining Operations Course January 13 – 31, 2014 Monday to Friday 8:30 am – 4:30 pm In partnership with

Only $995!

OFA Level 1 Fall Protection Mining Supervisor Safety Introduction to Haul Truck Mine Tour & Ride Along in a Haul Truck at Teck Basic Computer Skills Soft Skills Training

If you have any questions or would like to register, please contact the Fernie Campus at 250-423-4691.

www.cotr.bc.ca/Fernie

www.thefreepress.ca

THE FREE PRESS Thursday, December 26, 2013

Starting Friday, December 27 to Thursday, January 2

The Hobbit:

The Desolation of Smaug 3D

The Secret Life of Walter Mitty Rated: G 7:00 & 9:10 pm

Rated: PG 7:00 pm ONLY

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 28

28 30 31 31 31 31

Yule Create Kids Camp, Fernie Arts Station, 9am-noon Fernie Ghostriders vs. Kimberley Dynamiters, Fernie Memorial Arena, 7:30pm Fernie Ghostriders vs. Columbia Valley Rockies, Fernie Memorial Arena, 7:30pm Griz Kidz Family New Years Eve Fun Event at Fernie Alpine Resort Polar Bear Swim, Fernie Aquatic Centre, 6pm New Year’s Eve Griz Bar Party at Fernie Alpine Resort Winter Fun Drop-in program, Fernie Library, 2-4pm

JANUARY 2-3 3 4 5 10 12 16 17-19 19 25 26 30 31

Winter Fun Drop-in program, Fernie Library, 2-4pm Fernie Ghostriders vs. 100 Mile House Wranglers, Fernie Memorial Arena, 7:30pm Fernie Ghostriders vs. Kimberley Dynamiters, Fernie Memorial Arena, 7:30pm ‘Game On!’, Fernie Library, 1-2:30pm Fernie Ghostriders vs. Revelstoke Grizzlies, Fernie Memorial Arena, 7:30pm ‘Game On!’, Fernie Library, 1-2:30pm ‘Run Stop Run’, Fernie Arts Station, 8:00pm 6th Annual Reel Canadian Film Festival, Vogue Theatre ‘Game On!’, Fernie Library, 1-2:30pm Fernie Ghostriders vs. Columbia Valley Rockies, Fernie Memorial Arena, 7:30pm ‘Game On!’, Fernie Library, 1-2:30pm Fernie Ghostriders vs. Creston Valley Thunder Cats, Fernie Memorial Arena, 7:30pm Fernie Ghostriders vs. Beaver Valley Nitehawks, Fernie Memorial Arena, 7:30pm

www.thefreepress.ca

THE FREE PRESS Thursday, December 26, 2013

CONNECTION

CITY OF FERNIE BRITISH COLUMBIA

City of Fernie CONNECTION | Community Information and Opportunities | www.fernie.ca NotICE oF INtENtIoN

City Council Meeting Schedule

to provide assistance under a Partnering Agreement between the Corporation of the City of Fernie and tourism Fernie

January 2014 5 12 19 26

6 13 20 27

1 2 3 7 8 9 10 14 CITY 15 OF 16FERNIE 17 21BRITISH 22 COLUMBIA 23 24 28 29 30 31

4 11 18 25

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 Warmest thoughts and best wishes for Holiday Season and all the best for the New Year! Council and Staff for the City of Fernie

HolIdAY HouRS – CItY HAll December 25, 2013 Closed December 26, 2013 Closed December 27, 2013 Closed December 30, 2013 8:00 – 5:00pm December 31, 2013 8:00 – 5:00pm January 1, 2014 Closed January 2, 2014 8:00 – 5:00pm (back to regular hours)

Notice is hereby given that at the January 13, 2014 Regular Meeting the Council of the City of Fernie intends to consider entering into a partnering agreement pursuant to S. 21 of the Community Charter the terms of which would provide assistance to tourism Fernie for the provision of municipal services, being the operation of a Winter Shuttle Service between the City and Fernie Alpine Resort, for the 2013/14 operating (ski) season with an option for the agreement to be extended to include the 2014/15 and 2015/16 operating (ski) seasons at the discretion of the City, providing for payment by the City to Tourism Fernie the sum of $50,000 per operating season to partially pay the costs of providing the Service. Funding for the Service is proposed to come from the province’s Resort Municipality Initiative and the service is an approved project in the City’s 20122016 Resort Development Strategy. A complete copy of the proposed partnering agreement can be viewed at the office of the undersigned at City Hall, 501 3rd Avenue, during regular business hours. Jim Hendricks, Chief Administrative Officer Posted at the Public Notice Posting Place this 19 day of December 2013 and advertised in the December 19, 2013 and December 26, 2013 editions of The Free Press Newspaper.

PuBlIC NotICE

In accordance with section 127 of the Community Charter and City of Fernie Council Procedure Bylaw No. 1956, notice is hereby given that Council has confirmed the 2014 schedule of the dates, times and place of Regular Council meetings. The schedule is posted on the City of Fernie Public Notice Board located adjacent to the Heritage Library at 492 - 3rd Avenue, Fernie B.C.

The City of Fernie is inviting proposals for the development of a comprehensive strategy for our community wide trail system. Request for Proposal quotations should be clearly marked “Request for Proposal: City of Fernie trails Master Plan” to the City of Fernie, City Hall, 501- 3rd Avenue, Box 190, Fernie BC V0B 1M0.

2014 Council Meeting Schedule

Request for Proposals – Fernie trails Master Plan

A paper copy of the schedule is available to the public at any time during regular office hours which are Monday through Friday from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. except statutory holidays and is also posted on the City of Fernie website at www.fernie.ca Council and Committee of the Whole Meeting Schedule 2nd and 4th Monday of each month (except for the month of December & Statutory Holidays) in Council Chambers at City Hall & 501-3rd Avenue. When a meeting falls on a statutory holiday, the meeting will be held on the next day City Hall is open. Committee of the Whole Meetings are held at 10:00 a.m. | Regular Council Meetings are held at 7:00 p.m. JANuARY Monday 13 | Monday 27

JulY Monday 14 | Monday 28

FEBRuARY Tuesday 11 | Monday 24

AuGuSt Monday 11 | Monday 25

MARCH Monday 10 | Monday 24

SEPtEMBER Monday 8

APRIl Monday 14 | Monday 28

oCtoBER Tuesday 14 | Monday 27

MAY Monday 12 | Monday 26

NoVEMBER Monday 10 | Monday 24

JuNE Monday 9 | Monday 23

dECEMBER Monday 1 | Monday 15

The regular meeting schedule is subject to change with notice.

In the Case of an emergency please call the Fire Hall at 250 423.4226 Holiday hours for the Aquatic Centre and Fernie Memorial Arena can be found at www.fernie.ca or call 250 423-4466.

For more information regarding Council meetings or to request to be delegation please contact: Michelle Martineau, Director of Corporate Administration Services (T) 250.423.2231 (F) 250. 423.3034 (E) michelle.martineau@fernie.ca

HolIdAY GARBAGE & RECYClING SCHEdulE The following changes will apply to the residential garbage and recycling collection schedule over the holiday season: Regular Garbage Collection date Tuesday, December 24 Wednesday, December 25 Thursday, December 26 Tuesday, December 31 Wednesday, January 1 Thursday, January 2

Subdivision Mt. View & Maintown West Fernie & Annex Castle Mtn, Ridgemont, Parkland Terrace, Alpine Trail Mt. View & Maintown West Fernie, & Annex Castle Mtn, Ridgemont, Parkland Terrace, Alpine Trail

New Collection date Monday, December 23 Tuesday, December 24 No Change Monday, December 30 Tuesday, December 31 No change

Recycling Collection Schedule There will be no change to the existing schedule over the holidays. Please visit the website for the full 2014 garbage and recycle collection schedule www.fernie.ca.

Please contact Cam Mertz, Director of Leisure Services, at 250-4301766 or cam.mertz@fernie.ca for more information or visit the City's Bid Opportunities webpage to download the Request for Proposals (RFP) documents. the deadline to submit proposals is 4:00pm on Friday, January 10, 2014. The City of Fernie reserves the right to waive informalities in, or reject any or all tenders, or accept the Quotation most favorable in the interest of the owner. For more information, please contact: Cam Mertz, Director of Leisure Services City of Fernie, 501-3rd Avenue, Box 190, Fernie BC V0B 1M0 T: 250.430.1766 | F: 250.423.3034 | E: cam.mertz@fernie.ca

toWEd VEHIClES

For Information regarding towed vehicles please contact City Hall at 250 423-6817 or the Aquatic Centre at 250 423-4466. 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; and 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.

FERNIE tRANSFER StAtIoN Regular Hours: 9:00 - 5:00pm Monday - Friday 10:00 - 4:00pm Saturday & Sunday Tuesday, December 24 Wednesday, December 25 Thursday, December 26 Friday, December 27 Monday, December 30 Tuesday, December 31 Wednesday, January 1

Closed at 4:00pm CLOSED Regular Hours Regular Hours Regular Hours Closed at 4:00pm CLOSED

the City of Fernie “will not” be picking up Christmas trees after the holidays. Please take them to the Transfer station free of charge and deposit them in the yard/garden waste section. Your cooperation is greatly appreciated!

www.thefreepress.ca

THE FREE PRESS Thursday, December 26, 2013

R 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 (in Council Chambers)

Monday, January 6 Monday, January 20 Monday, January 27

Regular Meeting at 7:00 pm Regular Meeting at 7:00 pm Committee of the Whole Meeting at 7:00 pm

Notice of Council Meetings 2014 Notice of Regular Council Meetings for 2014 January 6 January 20

February 3 February 17 March 3 March 17

April 7 April 22 (Tuesday) May 5 May 20 (Tuesday)

June 2 - Cancelled June 16

July 7 - Cancelled July 21

August 5 - Cancelled August 18

September 2 (Tuesday) September 15 October 6 October 20

November 3 November 17 December 1 December 15

Items for the agenda must be received at the Municipal Ofﬁce by noon Wednesday preceding the meeting. Anyone wishing to address Council must submit an Application to Appear Before Council, available on the District's website, by fax or request at the front counter.

All Regular Meetings commence at 7:00 pm in the Council Chambers of the Municipal Ofﬁce, 136 Spruce Avenue, Sparwood, BC and are televised on Shaw Cable at 7:00 pm on the Wednesday following the meeting or at other times as advertised. Meetings will also be available on our website at www.sparwood.ca/ councilmeetings and on our facebook page at www.facebook.com/sparwood.bc

Notice of Commitee of the Whole Meetings for 2014 January 27 February 24 March 31 April 28 May 26 June 30

July 28 - Cancelled August 25 - Cancelled September 29 October 27 November 24

All Committee of the Whole Meetings commence at 7:00 pm in the Council Chambers of the Mnicipal Ofﬁce, 136 Spruce Avenue, Sparwood, Bc.

The schedule of Regular and Committee of the Whole meeting dates is available throughout the year on the District's website at www.sparwood.ca and at the District Ofﬁce. Raeleen Manjak Director of Corporate Services

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.

PAY YOUR UTILITIES EARLY AND SAVE! The 2014 Utility rates for single family dwellings and strata units are set out below. A 10% discount, is available for the whole amount, or any portion thereof, provided it is paid no later than January 31, 2014. Single Family Residence 2014 Water/Sewer/Garbage IF PAID BY JANUARY 31, 2014

$819.00 $737.10

Save $81.90

Strata Unit 2014 Water/Sewer/Garbage IF PAID BY JANUARY 31, 2014

$786.60 $707.94

Save $78.66

Residences receiving Water and Garbage Services only 2014 Water/Garbage $554.40 IF PAID BY JANUARY 31, 2014 $498.96

Save $55.44

Residences receiving Garbage services only 2014 Garbage IF PAID BY JANUARY 31, 2014

Save $35.22

$352.20 $316.98

Discounts apply only if 2013 utilities have been paid in full, payment will be applied ﬁrst to any outstanding 2013 utilities transferred to tax accounts. Discounts are available to all commercial accounts as well

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

The program will be ending on December 31, 2013 but residents and commercial businesses have until January 15, 2014 to submit a form for a toilet purchased in 2013.

What to do? 1. Purchase and install any brand new CSA-approved, 6L or dual flush toilet; 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. Questions? Please contact the Engineering Department at 250.425.6271 for additional information.

PLEASE BE A SNOW BUDDY in your neighbourhood this winter... Many of our senior citizens and persons with disabilities ﬁnd it difﬁcult to remove the snow from their driveways in the wintertime. Please look around your neighbourhood and lend a helping hand to those who may not be able to clear their own driveways. It’s the neighbourly thing to do and one of the things that make Sparwood such a great community in which to live. At the end of the winter season the District accepts nominations from residents for their “Snow Buddy”, who will be recognized at a Council Meeting.

Merry Christmas & Happy New Year From Sparwood's Mayor, Council, Staff and Employees.

www.thefreepress.ca

February 2013

Elementary kids get creative for Pink Shirt Day By Nicole Obre Free Press Staff

THE FREE PRESS Thursday, December 26, 2013

Wishing everyone a Happy New Year and all the best in 2014! Bellevue Vet Clinic Main Street, Bellevue, AB 1-866-563-5400 (Toll Free) Office Hours: Mon., Tues., Wed. & Fri., 8-5 Thurs., 8-8

From Christine, Paul, Lisa, Chris & Tammy at Bellevue Veterinary Clinic.

ith this year’s Pink Shirt Day just around the corner, children at Isabella Dicken Elementary School had some tie-dye fun. With a little help from his mom, grade three student Trey Hobb brought in all of the necessary supplies so that all of his classmates would have a pink shirt to wear on February 27. Pink Shirt Day, aka AntiBullying Day, is held during the last Wednesday of February. Originally started as a protest against a bullying incident at a Nova Scotia high school, students across Canada wear pink to take a stand against bullying. Trey’s mom explained that after getting teased for wearing a home made pink shirt last

We hope your New Year’s celebration is a great start to a great year. May 2014 hold many wonderful things for you and yours.

year, Trey wanted to make sure that all of his classmates participated in Anti-Bullying Day, happening on February 27. “We made his shirt with pink food colouring because we didn’t have a pink shirt. He

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

No order too small Any size order welcome Payment due upon pick-up/delivery

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

came to school on Pink Shirt Day, he took his jacket off, and the first thing that happened was he was bullied,” said Trish Crawshaw, Trey’s mom. “I explained to Trey that luckily he could take that pink shirt off and his bullying worries were over, because he doesn’t have to wear that shirt again. But there are kids who are getting bullied all the time about anything; being too fat, too skinny, wearing the wrong clothes, or having glasses or braces. “So Trey and I took it upon ourselves to buy everybody the supplies to make a pink shirt.” With plenty of white shirts, fabric dye, rubber gloves, and elastic bands at the ready, the kids in Trey’s grade three and four split class had a blast creating their very own pink shirts.

Did You Know? Addiction Relapse Prevention

A combination of factors can contribute to relapse and identifying these factors is the first step to successful recovery. Often relapse occurs in stages, starting with something happening called the trigger. We then interpret the event to create a core belief that we hold about ourselves, often negative, and these self-destructive interpretations can lead to cravings. At the next step we then often give ourselves permission to engage in these old behaviours. At this stage we take steps towards engaging in old patterns of behaviour and finally we then engage in the old behaviour, and find we have relapsed. Studies have shown that: • We are most likely to relapse in the first three months after making a change. • Our overall chance of relapse is high. • A relapse is not the end of the world. It is part of the natural cycle of change and a step on the way to lasting recovery. It is also important to build positive skills and patterns of behaviour that support and enhance the recovery process. Some suggestions to consider are healthy eating, getting enough sleep, exercise regularly, connecting to positive social contacts, practicing relaxation skills and daily selfmonitoring. It is also beneficial to rewards yourself for the hard work you have achieved. This Christmas, indulge in some well-earned rewards after the holiday period like a nice meal or a relaxing bubble bath! Stay safe and make healthy choices. Adapted from information on heretohelp.bc.ca and relapse-prevention. org. By East Kootenay Addictions Services Society. Addiction Relapse Prevention. 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

As we ring in the new year, we also celebrate your friendship and support. It’s been a pleasure doing business with you in 2013.

ew Years pp y N a H from

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

Backcountry Avalanche Workshop • Smartphones: the good and the bad • Choosing Terrain: interactive session to learn the nuances • Avalanche Character: understanding the nature of the problem keeps you shredding but keeps you out of trouble • Gear and Rescue: the latest trends

thursday, january 9, 7 pm – 9 pm the clubhouse, fernie golf & country club, fernie, bc free admission Special thanks to Teck, sponsor of the CAC South Rockies Observer Program

Sponsored by

www.thefreepress.ca

THE FREE PRESS Thursday, December 26, 2013

Fernie teen rolls up the rim to win By Nicole Obre Free Press Staff

i x t e e n - y e a r- o l d Leah Teeple got more than just a cup of coffee when she stopped at Tim Hortons in Fernie during her lunch break from school last Thursday. The grade 11 student ordered her usual double double and walked back to Fernie Secondary School, where she rolled up the rim of her coffee cup to discover she had won a car. “The whole school knew before I really realized what I had won,” commented Leah. “I was excited but it hadn’t really sunk in yet, I was just in shock.” Through Tim Hortons’ Rrroll Up the Rim to Win contest, Leah is now the proud owner of a brand new Toyota Rav 4, valued at $32,000. Leah will get the chance to get behind the wheel of her prize when it arrives in four to six weeks, but she will have to wait a little longer until she can take it out for a spin on

her own. She explained, “I get my ‘N’ in June so then I can drive it all by myself.” The contest began on February 18 and will see Tim Hortons customers across North America rolling up the rims of more than 260-million contest cups. Among the prizes are 100 prepaid MasterCards in the amount of $5,000, 1,000 Napoleon Gourmet Grills, as well as thousands of Tim Hortons gift cards and food prizes. Just 40 Rav 4’s will be given away, and Fernie Tim Hortons owner Kristine HovindPelletier was happy to see one of them go to a local. “It's incredible that of all the cups distributed, Fernie got the winner,” she said. “Someone won a boat after getting a coffee from us a few years ago, but he was from Calgary. It's way more fun for us to see someone actually from Fernie win.” The contest will continue until the end of April.

Through Tim Hortons Rrroll Up the Rim to Win contest, 16-year-old Leah Teeple from Fernie is the winner of a brand new Toyota Rav 4. From left: Sherry Teeple, Roll Up the Rim winner Leah Teeple, Tim Hortons owners Pierre Pelletier and Kristine Hovind-Pelletier, and Manager Patty Saluk. Photo by N. Obre

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

POOL HOLIDAY SCHEDULE December 26 - January 2

ARENA HOLIDAY SCHEDULE

District of sparwooD Launches new BranD

December 26 - January 2

Early Bird Swim Skate & Shoot (12 & under) January 13th – February 12th 2014 Friday & Monday, 7:00 - 10:00 Friday to Tuesday & Thursday, 11:00 - 12:00 Mondays & Wednesdays - ½ Hour - $34 (9 Lesson Set) Lane Swim Skate & Shoot (13 & up) No Class Monday February 10th Friday, Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, 12:00 - 1:00 Friday to Tuesday & Thursday, 12:00 - 1:00 Family Swim Public Skate 3:30 – 4:00 pm Level 1, Level 2, Level 3 Sunday, 12:00 - 2:00 Thursday to Tuesday & Thursday, 1:30 - 3:00 4:00 - 4:30 pm Salamander Lane Swim 3 on 3 Drop in Hockey 4:30 – 5:00 pm Crocodile, Whale Saturday, 1:00 - 2:00 Friday to Monday & Thursday, 7:00 - 8:30 Sea Otter, Aquatots Public Swim 5:00 - 5:30 pm Tuesday, 1:00 - 3:00 January 13th – March 12th, 2014 Public Swim Mondays & or Wednesdays 1 Hour Thursday, Friday & Monday, Wednesday, Thursday, 1:00 - 4:00 Registration fee: $10 and Public Swim Program fee: $50 or Active Living Pass Saturday & Sunday, 2:00 - 5:30 No Class Monday February 10th FREE SWIM Friday, 4:00 - 5:30 The District of Sparwood is pleased to announce the 4:00 – 5:00 pm After School Swim Club Melcer. “This allows our brand to resonate with26th our most Lane Swim December January 14th February 13th, 2014 Friday to Monday & & Thursday, 5:30 6:30 Graffi ti Skate Use your articitc talent and launch of its new brand and identity. “We’re now important audience first — our own community.” Public Swim Tuesdays & Thursdays - ½ Hour - $38 (10 Lesson Set) paint up the ice! Friday & Saturday and Monday & Tuesday, 6:30 - 9:00 ideally positioned to clearly and consistently share our December 31st 11:00 - 11:30 am Salamander

Yours & Mine. together.

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

11:30 – 12:00 Noon

Sea Otter

ARENA SPECIAL EVENTS DURING DAYTIME PUBLIC SKATE

The initial results of the branding include a new Countdown exercise to New year Skate - Join us for a pretend

POOL SPECIAL logo, EVENTS countdown to ring in the New Year! new taglines, a community website, professional

December 27th Closes at 3:00 pm - December 31 DIVE IN MOVIE Closed 1 images, posters, trade show materials, ads,January and other Come join us with your floaties for a Christmas 4:00 - 4:30 pm Level 4, Level 5 Unlike many community brands, Sparwood’s brand has movie in the pool. informational collateral, as well as recommendations on 4:30 – 5:00 pm Sunfish 7:00 pm - Regular Pool Admission - Open to All not been developed primarily to increase tourism or how December 31st - to implement the brand as the community moves January 14th – February 13th, 2014 WORLD Tuesdays & Thursdays - 2 Hours - $170 attract destination visitors. Rather, its brand development NEW YEAR’S AROUND THE forward and begins to proactively share its story. Lace ‘em up and hit the ice! A great opportunity for youth Celebrate New Year’s with us as we will highlight $32 Manual & $35 Pocket Mask is to strengthen its distinctive characteristics, demonstrate ages 12 and up to come out and experience a 3 on 3 different games and actitivies from around the world. 3:30 - 5:30 pm Bronze Medallion hockey developing game. Refereeas anda supervision 1:00 - 3:00 pm - Regular Pool Admission - Open to All on strictly “We’re not intent tourism supplied. a desire to continue to develop economic diversity, and Contact District of Sparwood Recreation office for Closes at 3:00 pm - December 31 FOR MORE INFORMATION CALL (250) 425-0552 community,” says Melcer. “But we are intent on information. Closed January 1 www.sparwood.ca/recreation to continue to provide a solid foundation to increase 3:30 – 4:00 pm

Sparwood’s Chief Administrative Officer. Level 6, Level 7

YOUTH 3-ON-3 DROP IN HOCKEY

www.thefreepress.ca

THE FREE PRESS Thursday, December 26, 2013

The Free Press drivewayBC.ca |

Welcome to the driver’s seat

There are a few coupes still available and one that is worthy of consideration is this new 2014 Honda Accord Coupe V6. Zack Spencer

Visit the Honda Accord Coupe photo gallery at drivewayBC.ca

Honda’s contemporary on a dying breed 2014 Honda Accord Coupe V6 It’s fascinating to watch trends in the auto industry play out over time. Some changes happen quickly, with one manufacturer coming out with a feature, then the rest of the industry following suit. Backup cameras would be a good example of this. Other trends are much slower, changing because of demographic fluctuations. One example of a slow-moving trend is the two-door coupe falling out of favour and its replacement by sedans and crossovers. This trend is greatly affected by baby boomers getting older and buying more for practical reason, rather than styling. In the 1980s, and even the beginning of the 90s, there were plenty of coupes to choose from and they sold well. But where are the Honda Prelude, Toyota Celica, Pontiac Sunfire and Ford Probe coupes? Now gone and many not replaced with newer models. I’m thrilled to report that there are a few coupes still available and one that is worthy of consideration is this new 2014 Honda Accord Coupe V6. Looks The Accord Coupe is based on the all-new Accord sedan that has been selling very well for Honda. In fact, it won the Canadian Car of the Year this year as decided by the Automobile Journalist Association of Canada. Honda has done a good job of updating this big coupe with a more modern twist. Sold in three configurations from the base EX to the EX-L Navi (L stand for leather and navi is self-explanatory),

which are both 4-cylinder way the radio stores and equipped models. The top retrieves pre-set radio trim is the EX-L Navi with stations. It took a long V6. This top trim level is the time to set the stereo model seen here: it comes up and having to go with LED projector headback and forth between lamps, 18-inch wheels and different screens is not duel chrome exhaust tips. If you like the idea that intuitive. The rest of The 4-cylinder equipped the dash is large, with big models come with halogen of a smart looking car cup holder and plenty of headlamps and 17-inch storage areas. that is well equipped alloy wheels. The coupe The steering wheel and powerful, you starts at $26,400, a $2,500 buttons and heat controls premium over the regular might want to move on on the dash use first rate an Accord Coupe. sedan but when the switches and they are sedan is equipped with placed with precision. Zack Spencer alloy wheels, the price is Drive Another trend almost identical. The EX-L that Honda is bucking, with this Accord is $30,100 for the leather and navi and Coupe, is the inclusion of a 6-speed the V6 premium is $35,500. Not an manual transmission and V6 engine. The inexpensive car but most are very well latest movement is to turbo or superequipped. charged 4-cylinder engines to replace V6

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’’

Inside It’s a big and comfortable coupe. The back seat is actually usable for adults and the front seats are very comfortable. The trunk is huge and the back seat folds for extra long items but the seats do not split and fold, plus the opening to the back seat is small. Standard feature on all Accord models is a backup camera and heated seats. Honda, in my opinion, has raised the bar in the mid-sized category and produced the nicest dash I have seen in this class. There are two screens in the centre console, one for the navigation unit and the other for the radio. They are framed in beautiful, high quality satin metal, chrome and soft touch materials. One area that could be improved is the

power plants and duel clutch automatic transmission in favour of a manual. I’m glad that Honda still offers this layout; it shows they are serious about being a true enthusiast’s car company. Granted, most buyers will get the very good 6-speed automatic transmission with the 3.5L V6, but with 278hp and 252 lb.ft. of torque it will be a very lively car in either configuration. The manual is a joy to use and it is like a throwback to drive a V6 equipped manual car. The 4-cylinder models have 185hp from a direct injection 2.4L engine and either a manual transmission or continuously variable transmission (CVT) for added fuel savings. The CVT is capable of 7.8L/100km in the city and 5.7L on the highway. The

V6 uses more at 10.0L/100km in the city and 6.1L on the highway. Verdict When I started reviewing cars back in the early 1990s, cars like this were common: a mid-sized sedan with a V6 engine and a manual transmission. I can clearly remember driving a Toyota Camry, Nissan Maxima and Accord equipped this way. While most companies are moving away from this design, Honda is sticking with it for now. Soon Honda will have smaller turbocharged 4-cylinder engines available and this big coupe might too be fitted with something more efficient. If you like the idea of a smart looking car that is well equipped and powerful, you might want to move on an Accord Coupe V6 before it follows the latest trend.

The Lowdown Power: 2.4L 4-cylinder with 185hp or 3.5L V6 with 278hp Fill-up: 7.8L/5.7L/100km (city/highway 4-cylinder) Sticker price: $26,400-$35,500 zack.spencer@drivewaybc.ca

Don’t be a Deer in the Headlights... We can put your advertising into HIGH GEAR! Contact Nicole Obre - Advertising Consultant Phone: 250-423-4666 Email: advertising@thefreepress.ca

Question OF THE WEEK:

What is your favourite car colour and why? Please explain why you have made that decision.

QUESTION OF THE WEEK!

Go to drivewayBC.ca to submit your answer.

Safety Tip: Over the past five years, 10 people were killed and 36 were seriously injured in impaired driving related crashes in B.C. between Christmas Eve and New Year’s Day. Share the responsibility of being the designated driver this holiday season, or if you’re hosting a New Year’s bash have taxi numbers on hand.

Find more online at

drivewayBC.ca

Boxing Day Blowout 2009 F150 CREW FX4 4x4 2011 Escape Limited 4WD

WAS $

24,477*

WAS $

NOW! 23,988* $

STK# UTO556

199.00/biweekly

STK# UT0593

25,977*

NOW! 23,727* $

187.84/biweekly

60 months - $5,000 down, 5.99%

84 months - $0 down, 5.99%

2011 Escape XLT 4x4

2002 Explorer XLS 4x4 *LOW KMS*

WAS $

The 2014 Toyota Tundra is a truck for the Wild West The 2014 Toyota Tundra has deep roots in the Wild, Wild West. The 1794 Edition is a tribute to the ranch, founded in the year 1794, on which the Tundra plant is located in San Antonio, Texas. In 2002, Toyota began the search for a US facility to build the second generation Toyota Tundra. The 2,000-acre ranch site was acquired and ground breaking took place Oct 17, 2003. Just like the ranch it replaced, hard The ride was a work and dedication prevailed bringing production numbers perfect combination up to 200,000 units. On September 18, 2013, the one-millionth truck, a Sunset Bronze Mica colored, 1794 Edition of on-road comfort Tundra, rolled out. and off-road This truck has a completely new body design with an toughness. aggressive grille that extends from the bumper to the raised hood. The fender flares are larger and more defined, and the Ian Harwood tailgate has Tundra stamped into the sheet metal. The top of the line Western themed 1794 Edition comes with a unique chrome grille and

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’’

22,747*

NOW! $21,610* $

STK# UTO565

149.96/biweekly

84 months - 2,500 down, 5.99% $

2012 Escape Limited 4WD ONLY 19,000 km

NOW! $28,747*

STK# UT0567

Low km’s. Fully Loaded. MINT

197.15/biweekly

STK# UTO604

WAS $

10,427*

NOW! $7,777*

2010 F150 Lariat 4x4 CREW

WAS $ STK# UT0605

29,947*

NOW! 28,747* $

199.92/biweekly

84 months - $3,500 down, 5.99%

72 months - $6,600 down, 5.99%

2008 Escape XLT V6 4WD

2005 F250 Superduty XLT 4x4

WAS $

drivewayBC.ca

www.thefreepress.ca

THE FREE PRESS Thursday, December 26, 2013

18,448*

NOW! $16,878* $

STK# UT0577

148.00/biweekly

60 months - $2,750 down, 5.99%

STK# UT0610

NOW! $10,947*

169.24/biweekly

36 months - $1,000 down, 7.49% O.A.C

120 *Plus $399 doc + taxes

DL# 30507

1492 Hwy #3, Fernie • 250-423-9211 • www.fernieford.com

chrome and silver bumper. It’s almost like a large belt buckle! The inside screams Country music with its exclusive premium saddle tan brown leather seats with embossed and suede accents. Soft-touch materials are found on the center console, the front and rear door trim, and the instrument panel. Rich maple wood-grain covers the steering wheel, dash and shifter. Big improvement to the back seat of the Double Cab and Crew Max where a 60/40 split bench flips up with a one handed latch to allow more cargo space. The Tundra is equipped with Toyota’s advanced display audio system with AM/FM Radio, CD, MP3/WMA capability, USB and auxiliary input, and voice recognition. It also includes standard Bluetooth and an integrated backup camera. A SR model has a 6.1-inch display, while the SR5, Limited and Platinum models feature a 7-inch display with integrated Sirius XM Satellite Radio. Two engines available, depending on the model you choose. The 4.6 L i-force V8 that puts out 310 horsepower and 327 lb ft of torque and the 5.7 L i-force V8 with 32 valve dual overhead cam engine that generates 381 horsepower and 410 lb ft of torque. Both motors are connected to a 6 speed automatic transmission with sequential shift mode. Fuel economy numbers are; 5.7 L: 14.2/10.5 L/100 km (city/highway) 4.6 L: 11.0/13.6 L/100 km (city/highway) Driver and front passenger airbags, roll-sensing, head/side curtain and front mounted side airbags, and the first 1/2 ton pickup to include driver and front passenger knee airbags. Toyota’s star safety system includes electronic brake force distribution, smart stop technology, anti-lock brakes, vehicle stability control, and active traction control. The side mirrors have the blind spot monitor system that detects a vehicle in your blind spot. The ride was a perfect combination of on-road comfort and off-road toughness. The truck has exceptional steering response and firm enough not to nose dive in the corners. The seats are spacious and very comfortable; I compare it to a living room couch with seat belts. It has a very quiet cabin, which I found to be true with the previous model, with very little road noise. I am happy they continued with the larger oversized buttons and knobs, which you can operate while wearing gloves. With the popularity of the Tundra growing, I can easily see the two-millionth truck roll out before the next design change. Tundra Range Sticker Price: Tundra 4x2 Double Cab SR 4.6L $30,750 Tundra 4x4 Regular Cab SR 5.7L $30,825 Tundra 4x4 Double Cab SR 4.6L $34,825 Tundra 4x4 Double Cab SR 5.7L $36,650 Tundra 4x4 Double Cab SR Long Bed 5.7L $36,865 Tundra 4x4 Double Cab Limited 5.7L $46,950 Tundra 4x4 Crew Max SR5 5.7L $39,990 Tundra 4x4 Crew Max Limited 5.7L $48,120 Tundra 4x4 Crew Max Platinum 5.7L $53,700 1794 Edition $54,000

ian.harwood@drivewaybc.ca

drivewayBC.ca

T:5.81”

www.thefreepress.ca

By Keith Morgan

Drives-U-Crazy… Pedestrians

The

Charging ahead with plug in hybrids and all-electric cars The future of cars may be electric but do not expect 2014 to be the dawn of the new age. In fact, I predict there’s a long road ahead for manufacturers trying to woo the driving public into buying a car with a chord attached. Throw in the sales numbers for all-electric cars, plug-in hybrids and gas-battery hybrids and they don’t come anywhere near five percent of total vehicle sales. The commercial conundrum is that these (more) eco-friendly vehicles come with a premium sticker price beyond most folks and the only way to bring them in range is to sell many more! Most provincial governments have incentive rebates for those that make a green choice. While successful to a degree, they alone are going to turn us all on. If gas prices soar then some more buyers will go the hybrid route but that said there are an awful lot of four-cylinder vehicles out there that are remarkably economical on gas. Let’s get our heads out of the dark clouds and accept that economy of purchase and operation are what drives most sales. I am not an electric car naysayer, far from it, but we have to recognize that much needs to happen before the majority buy into this future. Sticker price is one thing but the single biggest challenge has to be the slow pace of infrastructure to fast-charge cars, whose batteries have run down mid-journey. ‘Range anxiety’ is a major mental obstacle for those with the resources to contemplate the purchase of an all-electric car such as the Nissan Leaf or Mitsubishi iMIEV. For that reason, it seems likely that the likes of the Chevrolet VOLT will enjoy more sales success as a main means of transport because an onboard gas-powered generator is ready to kick in to recharge the battery when the juice runs out. Similarly, the new BMWi3 while available as a pure electric vehicle can also be purchased with a range extending engine. Other manufacturers are set to follow that same route but in the meantime, the plug-in hybrid, which combines the pulling power of a gas engine and electric motor is the early winner of people’s green-tinged hearts. But back to the thorny issue of infrastructure. Many advocates want government to play a lead role but with all the demands made on the public pure that’s a dead end street. Maybe the tax incentives they can offer will encourage the private sector. For instance, the Canadian company Sun Country Highway has announced plans for a charging station network along the length of the Trans-Canada Highway. Other companies operating alongside major highways are extracting planning concessions from local government by installing recharging points. Hats off to BMW and its holistic approach. The German giant is collaborating with small tech companies, who will work with customers to make sure their homes don’t require a major power refit just to own one of the new i3s. And, as Dr. Ian Robertson, a BMW management board member, told me at the LA Auto Show recently there are many other power opportunities right in front our eyes. Urban areas are awash with street lights, which could be used as a source for curbside recharging. He also pointed out that there are many discontinued public phone sites in today’s cities. They have power wired to them and are ready to be tapped, should the phone company want to make a profit of more than a quarter per call. keith.morgan@drivewaybc.ca

THE FREE PRESS Thursday, December 26, 2013

37 MPG AS GOOD AS

HIGHWAY 7 L/100 KM HWY 7.7

2014 Dodge Journey R/T AWD shown. Price: $32,290 §.

19,998 2014 DODGE JOURNEY CANADA VALUE PACKAGE

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Don’t you hate it when pedestrians step on an off the corner? You are ready to brake to allow them to cross then they step back onto the sidewalk because they fear you are not going to stop quickly enough. Meanwhile, cars behind slam on their anchors and hit their horn in protest at your apparent indecision. As you pull away, the pedestrian glares at you!

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THE FREE PRESS Thursday, December 26, 2013

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THE FREE PRESS Thursday, December 26, 2013

March 2013

New affordable housing for seniors

Members of the Baynes Lake Seniors’ Housing Society join Minister of Community, Sport and Cultural Development Bill Bennett, Kootenay Columbia MP David Wilks, RDEK Electoral Area B Director Heath Slee, and RDEK Board Chair Rob Gay in the official ribbon cutting. Submitted photo By Angela Treharne Free Press Staff

eniors in Baynes Lake celebrated the official opening of Spirit Pond Haven, a new affordable housing development for seniors and persons with disabilities in Baynes Lake on Friday, March 8. The Spirit Pond Haven is a new development providing eight units of seniors’ housing, funded by the governments of Canada and British Columbia along with community partners. "Our government's top priorities are creating jobs, economic growth and long-term prosperity," said David Wilks, Member of Parliament for Kootenay-Columbia.

“We are thankful for the support from our government partners and the community that made these apartments possible. We look forward to many more anniversary celebrations here at Spirit Pond Haven for years to come.”

Happy New Year

2014

Doug Lyon Chairman of the Baynes Lake Seniors’ Housing Society

"Through investments in Spirit Pond Haven, we have helped to increase the number of affordable housing options for seniors in need of a hand up and contributed to the economic and social wellbeing of the entire community." Through an amendment to the Canada-British Columbia Affordable Housing Agreement, the federal and provincial governments contributed a combined total of over $1.1 million for the construction of eight seniors' rental housing apartments. The Regional District of East Kootenay provided the land, valued at $213,000. Columbia Basin Trust also contributed to the overall capital costs of this site. Spirit Pond Haven is managed and operated by the Baynes Lake Seniors’ Housing Society. "The Regional District of East Kootenay is pleased that the province had granted us the land so that we had it available to give to the society for the development of Spirit Pond Haven, providing seniors in our regional district with more affordable housing solutions they so richly deserve," said Heath Slee, director, Regional District of East Kootenay - Electoral Area B. "Residents of Spirit Pond Haven have truly taken great pride in making these homes their own," said Doug Lyon, chairman, Baynes Lake Seniors’ Housing Society. "We are thankful for the support from our government partners and the community that made these apartments possible. We look forward to many more anniversary celebrations here at Spirit Pond Haven for years to come."

Stop by and pick up a cold bottle of bubbly!

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www.thefreepress.ca

THE FREE PRESS Thursday, December 26, 2013

April 2013

EKCCU celebrates one year anniversary in Sparwood

By Nicole Obre Free Press Staff

t’s been one year since East Kootenay Community Credit Union (EKCCU) opened their Sparwood branch and they celebrated with the community on Wednesday, March 27. The sun was shining as the festivities got started, featuring a barbeque, refreshments, and entertainment from DJ McRae. PT the Clown kept the kids happy with balloon animals and face painting, while adults took cover from the wind in a heated tent.

EKCCU CEO Jody Burk held the crowd’s attention as he thanked staff members, Board Director Barb Nunes, and Branch Manager Eric Johnstone for a successful first year. “Eric’s leadership of the branch here has been great,” said Burk. “As well as his leadership of community events that we do here.” Burk went on to emphasize how grateful EKCCU is for Sparwood residents that had been credit union members long before the local branch opened. “We wouldn’t have this

branch here today if it wasn’t for those members because they drove up to Elkford when they could have just gone down the street to do their banking, or they drove to Fernie. We’d really like to thank those members that did that for many, many years.” He added, “What you see over the last year is just a little bit of what’s to come. The credit union, we believe, is an integral part of the community and we look forward to the many, many years ahead of us.” Sparwood Search and Rescue donated their time to run the barbeque for donations, with EKCCU promising to match the money raised. Johnstone was happy to present Search and Rescue with a cheque for $750. The real party got started following the speeches. EKCCU mascots Fat Cat and Moneybags created a dance floor and got everyone moving, including Sparwood Mayor Lois Halko, with the hokey pokey and the chicken dance.

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THE FREE PRESS Thursday, December 26, 2013

MAY 2013

Bennett wins fourth term as MLA By Angela Treharne, Arne Petryshen and Sally MacDonald Black Press Staff

iberal candidate Bill Bennett has cruised to a win for the fourth straight

time. Bennett has held the Kootenay East riding since 2001 when the B.C. Liberals took power. His party also formed another majority government, despite broad polling throughout the election campaign and before that suggested the NDP would form a majority. At his party's celebration at the Heritage Inn in Cranbrook Tuesday night, Bennett said he was happy to hear that his party was poised to take a majority lead in the province. “I never believed that we had no chance,” Bennett said. “I always believed we had a good chance at winning.” About his own victory in the riding, Bennett echoed the sentiment. “I'm really, really grateful that I won,” Bennett said. “I have a lot of support in Kootenay East. I know people personally. It's not like a big city riding where you don't know your constituents.” Bennett is currently Minister of Community, Sport and Cultural Development and has served as a cabinet minister under both Gordon Campbell and Christy Clark. Bennett thanked those who voted for him in the Elk Valley. “I'm particularly humbled by the support I received in the Elk Valley today, because I know that there were a lot of union workers in the coal industry and the forestry industry whose union leaders were telling them to vote NDP. I know this,” he said. “We ran into it a lot over the last 28 days, and despite that they came out to the polls, them and their families, and they voted for me. What that means to me is that it generates a trust between us. I

Free Press

need to perform for them. I need to represent them vigorously and effectively as I can. It means I have to fight against a park in the Flathead. It means that I have to stand up for coal mining and coal mine workers. It means that I have to support and represent the values of the people in the whole riding and they're not that much different in the Elk Valley then they are here. “This is rural Canada. This is not downtown Vancouver. You have rifles in the backs of trucks and people driving around with dogs barking; they're on their way out hunting and that's the way we live here.” Bennett is an avid hunter and fisherman. Before moving to Cranbrook, he owned and operated wilderness fishing and hunting lodges in the Northwest Territories for 15 years. The only other candidate, Norma Blissett, is a high school teacher at Cranbrook’s Mount Baker Secondary. She has also worked in the forestry industry. She serves as president of Citizens for a Livable Cranbrook. She was surrounded by supporters chanting her name at Cranbrook pub Dee Dee Magee's as the election was called for Bennett Tuesday night. “I thought we had a good chance, but obviously the voters have spoken and they wanted Mr. Bennett back,” she said. Blissett said she has been campaigning door-to-door since February, “and we’ve had other people helping in the past month, and we’ve been phoning and canvassing. We had some good communications, so I think we ran a good campaign. It’s just the will of the people; they really wanted to support Mr. Bennett and the B.C. Liberals. Her campaign team was hardworking and dedicated, Blissett went on. “I have had wonderful support. We have a great team of volunteers...they came through big time for me. Between all the

Bill Bennett, the newly re-elected MLA for Kootenay East, accepts congratulations from his supporters at the B.C. Liberal gathering held at the Heritage Inn in Cranbrook, Tuesday evening, May 14.

Photo by Arne Petryshen

scrutineers we had today, and people manning the office, and the sign crew did a fantastic job. So I am so pleased with all the volunteers,” she said. Like many people in British Columbia, Blissett said she was surprised the B.C. Liberals won

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the province. “The last polling I was looking at on the weekend showed us being nine points ahead,” Blissett said. “I knew this would be a tough riding. Kootenay East would be hard, but I thought we had a shot.

“And I felt confident that we would be forming government, so I am quite surprised.” Kootenay East has now had four liberal MLAs, six NDP and three Social Credit.

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THE FREE PRESS Thursday, December 26, 2013

www.thefreepress.ca

June 2013

Financial assistance for flood damage

The only way to get to the Fernie Forge over the weekend was by boat. The Hosmer business was one of many properties affected by the one in a hundred year flood that began on June 20. Photo by Sandra Barrett By Tamara Hynd Free Press Staff

he Province has approved the Regional District of East Kootenay’s (including all rural areas and municipalities) application to Emergency Management B.C. (EMBC) for Disaster Financial Assistance (DFA) for “overland flooding” in response to the flooding events over the past week. This means full-time residents can fill out claim forms and submit them for a portion of the cleanup costs related to the flooding that are not covered by insurance.

The DFA program is provincial and is only available to full-time residents. People who have experienced flooding should book a damage assessment as soon as the water has been receded for two days. To book an assessment, contact the RDEK’s Building & Protective Services Department at 250-4892791. If water got into any electrical outlets, fixtures or appliances (such as hot water tanks), contact the B.C. Safety Authority or visit their website to get a list of certified contractors to do electrical inspections. This is required before power can be

turned back on in homes that had power disconnected, but is also recommended for anyone who experienced water in electrical outlets or fixtures. There is a fee for this inspection. If flooding compromised your septic field, you will need to have it inspected by a qualified sewage practitioner. Once water has receded, you will need to disinfect your well. Take before and after photos to document everything. Get a letter of claim denial from your insurance company. Keep receipts for any and all clean-up costs related to the flooding and resulting repairs.

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It is important to note the deadline date for EMBC to receive DFA application forms is September 22. When filling out the forms, make sure you indicate a damage date between June 19 to 21, as this is the timeframe DFA has been approved for. This is a provincial assistance program and will only cover a portion of costs for approved claims. If you have questions about the program, contact EMBC at 1-888-257-4777. Part-time and seasonal property owners are not eligible for assistance through the Provincial Disaster Financial Assistance

Program (DFA). If flooding has damaged your property, a free clean up kit can be delivered to you by contacting the RDEK’s Building and Protective Services Department at 250-489-2791. These kits include very basic items to help get started with cleaning up after a flood, such as Javex, a mop and gloves. If people want to hire a remediation company, the RDEK has a list of companies. This would be at your own cost. Contact your insurance company to determine whether your policy might provide any coverage.

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. 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.

FOR MORE INFO GO TO WARRENMILLERCANADA.COM

The winner in each category will receive a prize as well as their writing/drawing published in The Free Press!

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

www.thefreepress.ca

THE FREE PRESS Thursday, December 26, 2013

July 2013

Wilk’s kidnapping bill receives Royal Assent By Nicole Obre Free Press Staff

ill C-299, sponsored by KootenayColumbia MP David Wilks, received Royal Assent on June 26. The bill will amend the Criminal Code and impose a mandatory minimum sentence of five years for a stranger that kidnaps a child under the age of 16. “I am very proud that Bill C-299 has received Royal Assent. The protection of children across Canada is paramount,” stated Wilks. “This addition to the Criminal Code will ensure that those convicted of kidnapping of a child under the age of 16 receive adequate sentencing.”

The bill was introduced by Wilks, following the kidnapping of three-yearold Kienan Hebert from his Sparwood home in September 2011. Hebert was returned home safely and without injury just a few days later, while his kidnapper, Randall Hopley, was arrested and pleaded guilty to the abduction. “There was a gap in the criminal code with regards to kidnapping,” Wilks explained. “Specifically to the Hopley case where this came to fruition, was that under Section 279 of the Criminal Code there was nothing recognizing the kidnapping of a child by a stranger.” He went on to say, “(The bill) was specifically put forward not in whole for the Hopley case, but certainly that had

an influence on it, because very rarely do you have a stranger kidnapping where the child is found alive.” The Government of Canada’s support for the proposed legislation is in keeping with the Plan for Safe Streets and Communities, one of four priorities identified by the Prime Minister. This plan focuses on holding violent criminals accountable, enhancing the rights of victims, and increasing the efficiency of the justice system. Wilks commented, “In going to Ottawa, my expertise, or my leaning, was towards areas of justice and I wanted to ensure that I could do something for all Canadians that would be a benefit, so I’m quite happy about it.”

Happy NewYear all the best in

2014

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The Board and Staff wish everyone a Merry Christmas and very Happy New Year!

From left: Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada Rob Nicholson and Kootenay-Columbia MP David Wilks are pleased to see Royal Assent given to Bill C-299. Submitted photo

Dr. A.M. Kahane

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

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

Check us out at www.kahane.ca 292-2nd Ave., Fernie Ph: 250-423-6838 Fx: 250-423-6839 dentist@kahane.ca

HAPPY HOLIDAYS from Dr. Amos & Marcela Kahane, Dr. James Jensen, Dr. Karl Peach, Rhonda, Terylene, Deana, Jan, Samantha, Ute, Sarah, Jodi, and Philomena.

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THE FREE PRESS Thursday, December 26, 2013

August 2013

In the spirit of the season we offer you our sincerest wishes and deepest gratitude. May you have the happiest, most fun-ﬁlled holiday season ever.

TransRockies takes Fernie full throttle

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

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

College of the Rockies n Fernie Campus

Electrical Construction and Industrial Foundation Program

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!

Over three hundred bikers competed at the twelfth TransRockies Challenge, riding single track trails around Fernie. More photos at www.thefreepress.ca. Photo by T. Hynd

Fernie Campus is currently accepting applications. Call today to get your application package.

By Tamara Hynd Free Press Staff

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

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he twelfth year of North America's original mountain bike stage race, the TransRockies Challenge, began in Fernie on July 27 and ended in Canmore Thursday, August 1. Almost 300 mountain bikers rode the trails on three different routes over three days in Fernie before they moved on to the last race days in Blairmore and

Canmore. Riders from 22 countries, including Canada, the United States, Australia, Ecuador, South Africa, and Portugal experienced real epic mountain biking in the Canadian Rockies, to 'find out what's inside, outside'. The Stage three start at the Fernie Alpine Resort was delayed due to an injured moose on one of the trails. As of press time, Oliver Zurbruegg, Paul Rermy and

Cory Wallace were the top three racers in the TR 7 Open Men category with times just under six hours. A part of this event will live on with the launch of the Fernie TR3 in 2014. On June 28, 29 and 30, 2014 riders will be welcomed back to ride some of the best trails in Western Canada in a premiere cross country mountain bike event. For more information on results, photos and video from the race go to www.transrockies.com.

Seasonʻs Greetings and Happy Holidays, From our family to yours.

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www.thefreepress.ca

THE FREE PRESS Thursday, December 26, 2013

September 2013

Sparwood to receive multi-million dollar investment By Angela Treharne Free Press Staff

parwood’s downtown is to receive a multimillion dollar facelift, including a major renovation of the mall, a new development including a hotel, restaurant and retail area, plus a walkway connecting the new development to the downtown. Kootenay East MLA Bill Bennett made the announcement on Tuesday. The minister hinted that this initial investment is just the start, and there may be more to come. The first stage of the development plan includes investments from Joy Global, Schickedanz West, Teck, BC Hydro and Noort Investments. Jude Smith, business development liaison at the District of Sparwood, said he hoped this investment would act as a springboard to attract a wider mix of quality retail and restaurants to Sparwood. “Hopefully people will want to spend their time and money in Sparwood,” he said. “This investment will bring in employment opportunities and help the economy. It’s a big step forward and will be the

catalyst for more.” The first thing that will happen will be the renovation of Greenwood Mall. Noort Investments, owners of the mall, has committed $500,000 to the redesign and development of the mall including new frontages, parking area development and internal improvements. The biggest investment will be from Joy Global, who are investing $35 million in a flagship corporate facility. Joy Global is a worldwide leader in high-productivity mining solutions and is a key supplier to Teck. Speaking of the investment, Steve Droste, Regional Manager, Western Operations at Joy Global said, “This new facility is the next step in our commitment to our customers, to our employees and to the future of mining in the Elk Valley. The facility will provide our employees with the best environment, tools and equipment which will enable us to provide the highest level of service to our customers. We are excited to be part of this major investment initiative in Sparwood and look forward to the growth and prosperity it will bring to

the region.” A pedestrian underpass will connect Joy Global’s facility with the downtown core on the other side of the highway. Regional developer Schickedanz West is investing $14m in the construction of a hotel, retail and restaurant development, which will occupy a prime highway position. They are currently seeking a compatible restaurant to complete the site. As part of its Beautification Program for municipalities, BC Hydro will contribute approximately $290,000 towards the cost to relocate the existing overhead power line infrastructure to underground in the vicinity of the planned development in Sparwood. Teck has also acquired eight acres of land off Highway 3 for future development. Minister Bennett said, “It is an honour for me to participate in today’s celebration of Sparwood and Sparwood’s future. I know Mayor and Council have worked hard on this development and it is very exciting to see it all come together for them and the whole

Land Act: Notice of Intention to Apply for a Disposition of Crown Land FrontCounter BC Cranbrook has accepted an application made by the Fernie Nordic Society at Box 843 Fernie, BC V0B 1M0, on behalf of the Ministry of Forests, Lands and Natural Resource Operations (MFLNRO), Kootenay Region, for a License of Occupation – Roadway to facilitate the installation of a bridge for the purposes of snowcat grooming of nordic ski trails on Lizard Creek near Fernie BC on Provincial Crown Land adjacent to the East ½ of DL 4129 KD and containing less than 0.01 hectare, at approximately 12 sq. m. The MFLNRO File Numbers that have been established for this application is 4405440. Written comments concerning this application should be directed to FrontCounter BC, 1902 Theatre Road, Cranbrook, BC, V1C 7G1 or email to: AuthorizingAgency.Cranbrook@gov.bc.ca. Comments will be received by FrontCounter BC until Jan 12 2014. FrontCounter BC may not be able to consider comments received after this date. Please refer to our website http://arfd.gov.bc.ca/ApplicationPosting/index.jsp. Go to Search, select Search by File Number: 4405440 for more information. These applications will be available for viewing at FrontCounter BC in Cranbrook, BC. Be advised that any response to this advertisement will be considered part of the public record. For information, contact the FOI Advisor at the Ministry of Forests, Lands and Natural Resource Operations in Cranbrook.

Pictured left to right: Steven Droste, Joy Global; Bill Bennett, MLA for East Kootenay, Minister of Energy and Mines; Roland Kraemer, Shickendanz West; Lois Halko, Mayor of Sparwood; David Wilks, MP Kootenay - Columbia and Nic Milligan, Teck. Photo by A. Horton

community. I am proud to represent such a forward looking community with such strong leadership. And as well, I welcome the new voters who will come with this significant investment.” Mayor of Sparwood, Lois Halko, said it wasn’t planned that all the investments would come together at the same time,

but it was something that had been worked on by District staff for a long time. “There has been a lot of hard work put in leading up to this,” she said. “It’s the most significant economic development and investment since Sparwood became Sparwood. I think all of our staff and Sparwood’s residents will be very pleased with this.

“It has been recognized for a while that the mall, which was built in the early 1970s, is in need of an upgrade. It’ll be a huge perk to get this done.” She said the District will also be contributing by developing a T intersection with a traffic control light at the junction of Highway 43 and Highway 3.

From our families to yours we wish you a

Merry Christmas & a safe Happy New Year.

Please don’t drink and drive. Mountain Mechanical ServiceS ltd. Sparwood - 743 Douglas Fir 250-425-6535 Elkford - 1 Front Street 250-865-4622 Cranbrook - 701 Industrial Road 1 250-426-7247

THE FREE PRESS Thursday, December 26, 2013

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The Free Press Dear friends, readers, and advertisers, As a newspaper, our mission is always to inform you of whatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s happening in your community. Throughout the year, we have been your eyes and ears as we do our best to report the news that matters to you. In 2014, we will once again be your witness to the daily happenings in and around our town. We thank you once again for your loyalty and hope that you will take advantage of every moment of happiness in the year to come. Hereâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s to a calm and prosperous new year!

Best wishes from our entire team. PHOTO: JUPITERIMAGES / THINKSTOCK

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THE FREE PRESS Thursday, December 26, 2013

The Free Press Thursday, December 26, 2013

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ADVERTISE in the LARGEST OUTDOOR PUBLICATION IN BC The 2014-2016 BC Hunting Regulations Synopsis

CANCEL YOUR Timeshare. No risk program. Stop mortgage and maintenance Payments today. 100% money back guarantee. Free consultation. Call us now. We can help! 1-888-356-5248.

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In Memoriam

If tears could build a stairway, And memories were a lane, I would walk right up to heaven, To bring you home again. No farewell words were spoken, No time to say good-bye, You were gone before I knew it, And only God knows why.

Please call Annemarie 1.800.661.6335 email: ﬁsh@blackpress.ca

In loving memory

Thomas Talarico

My heart still aches with sadness, And secret tears still flow, What it meant to lose you, No one will ever know. Missing you... Love Mom, Dad, Jordan and Daymon In Memory of Blayne Wilson May 21, 1982 - Dec. 28, 2008 Those we love remain with us for love itself lives on.

Cherished memories never fade

because one loved is gone. Those we love can never be more than a thought apart

For as long as there is a memory

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Love Always and Forever Amy and family oxoxo

Volunteer your time, energy and skills today.

Personals PREGNANT? NEED HELP? 1-800-665-0570

Place of Worship

Did you know that he loved to play hockey from the age of 3….and over the years could skate faster backwards than forwards? Did you know that he was a heavy duty mechanic by trade…..but at one point in time he wanted to be an accountant and later on a teacher of mechanics? Did you know he liked fast cars and started re-building a car when he was 14 yrs old, which he called his poor man’s vet? He instilled some precious values within us and every day we get a gentle reminder of the impact he made on us and how truly special he really was! In heaven now he resides, to watch over us with love and pride. We know one day we’ll meet again, until we do just know how much we miss you always. Forever in our hearts, love Mom, Dad, Joey, Bambi, Jaime and families

Place of Worship

ELK VALLEY CHURCH SERVICES

Did you know he had a son Joey? He was 10 at the time, lots has changed in 5 yrs…he is no longer a child but now a young man that misses his father terribly. Did you know he loved to do things with his nieces and nephews? He taught them how to ride their first dirt bike, took them boating, snowmobiling, and spent lots of time with them!

CENTURY PLAZA HOTEL Best Rates. 1.800.663.1818

Place of Worship

Did you know he was a “nerdy kid” and bullied at a young age...his sisters Bambi and Jaime fought many battles for him and would to this day if given the chance!

Did you know that he always helped friends and family when they needed a helping hand? It took a long time to get used the fact that we couldn’t just pick up the phone and “Ask Kane”

Fight Back.

June 8, 1976-Dec. 28, 2008 Those we love don’t go away. They walk beside us everyday. Unseen, unheard, but always near. Still loved, still missed and very dear. Always in our hearts, Mom, Dad & Janice

Kane Did you know? It’s been 5 yrs since Kane suddenly left us. We never got to say goodbye or to tell him that we loved him…we think of him everyday and at times our grief consumes us. That will never change. Did you know he was Rod and Dianne’s only son? A part of them both died with him and they were forever changed from what they once were... they now live with a constant shadow as life doesn’t seem as bright anymore.

In Memoriam

Travel

May 28, 1978 to Dec. 28, 2008

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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

(formerly Fernie Baptist Church)

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

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

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Thursday, December 26, 2013 The Free Press

Employment

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Misc. for Sale

Apt/Condo for Rent

IF YOU own a home or real estate, Alpine Credits can lend you money: Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s That Simple. Your Credit / Age / Income is not an issue. 1.800.587.2161.

HOT TUB (SPA) COVERS. Best price. Best quality. All shapes & colours available. 1-866-652-6837 www.thecoverguy.com/ newspaper?

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TRAIN TO be an Apartment/Condominium Manager online! Graduates get access to all jobs posted with us. 33 years of success! Government certified. www.RMTI.ca or 1800-665-8339, 604-681-5456.

Legal Services

Help Wanted Experienced parts person required immediately for James Western Star in Williams Lake. Full time, competitive wages, benefits and signing bonus. Fax resume to 250-398-6367 or email: nwejr@jamesws.com

STEEL BUILDINGS/Metal buildings 60% off! 20x28, 30x40, 40x62, 45x90, 50x120, 60x150, 80x100 sell for balance owed! Call 1-800-4572206 or visit us online at: www.crownsteelbuildings.ca

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

Rentals

â&#x20AC;˘ Labourers â&#x20AC;˘ Tradesmen â&#x20AC;˘ Class 1 Drivers

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/Specific 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

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GENERAL LABOURERS

Call 24Hr. Free Recorded Message 1-888-213-2854

Apartment Units

Household Services A-1 FURNACE & Air Duct Cleaning. Complete Furnace/Air Duct Systems cleaned & sterilized. Locally owned & operated. 1-800-5650355 (Free estimates)

Telephone Services DISCONNECTED PHONE? National Teleconnect home phone service. No one refused! Low monthly rate! Calling features and unlimited long distance available. Call National Teleconnect today! 1866-443-4408. or visit online: www.nationalteleconnect.com

Pets & Livestock

Feed & Hay HAY FOR SALE small square $160/ton 250-428-4316

Food Products BUTCHER SHOP

BC INSPECTED GRADED AA OR BETTER LOCALLY GROWN NATURAL BEEF Hormone Free Grass Fed/Grain Finished $100 Packages Available Quarters/Halves $2.65/lb Hanging Weight Extra Lean Hamburger $4.00/lb TARZWELL FARMS 250-428-4316 Creston

Help Wanted

Apt/Condo for Rent Well kept 2 bedroom Condo for rent in Sparwood Heights Includes fridge, stove, dishwasher, washer/dryer, storage area, use of exercise room & sauna. No Smoking, No Pets. Available immediately $900 furnished Plus utilities. Heat included. Call 250-423-3598 or 250-425-4431

Misc. for Sale

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.

Misc. for Sale

1501-9th Ave. 250-423-6625 t 8F HJWF MPBOT PO QBXOBCMF JUFNT XL UP XLT t

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.

Help Wanted

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

Hot Water Included

Vacancy At Tom Uphill Manor 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

Fernie Exchange New & Used & Pawnbrokers

Help Wanted

GOLDEN OAK GARDENS

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

695 per month

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

For more information call

250-423-1358

Help Wanted

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Ofď&#x192;&#x17E;ce Support EVENCE Ltd is a furniture supply company and we are looking for an administrative assistant for our busy office. This position requires strong organizational skills, attention to detail and good interpersonal skills. Duties include but are not limited to data entry, reception and production administration. The Successful candidate will: -Have strong analytical and communication skills, -Be a self-starter who is able to work with minimal supervision, -Have a sound knowledge of MS Office (Excel, Word, Outlook) Candidates with more than 2 years experience will be given preference.Salary is very attractive with other benefits attached. Please forward resume and cover letter to tass@offurntre.com for consideration.

Trades, Technical JOURNEYMAN AUTOMOTIVE Service Technician(s) in Hanna Alberta. Hanna Chrysler Ltd. offers competitive wages, relocation allowance, negotiable depending on experience. Bright, modern shop. Full-time permanent with benefits. Friendly town just 2 hours from major urban centres. More info at: hannachrysler.ca. Fax 403-854-2845; Or send by email to: chrysler@telusplanet.net

Request for Qualified Applicants: Specialized Business Consultants Community Futures invites consultants interested in providing on-call consulting services for the Basin Business Advisors program. This successful program helps small and medium businesses including social enterprises. We are seeking consultants with skills in, but not limited to, the following areas: Âˇ Âˇ Âˇ Âˇ Âˇ Âˇ Âˇ

human resources; financial; new technology; sales/marketing; social enterprise; other business related specialties; and other skills as needs arise.

Learn more at www.futures.bc.ca

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THE FREE PRESS Thursday, December 26, 2013

The Free Press Thursday, December 26, 2013

Rentals Apt/Condo for Rent 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

Rentals 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

SPARWOOD - FOR RENT Mobile home - all appliances. $900/month Call Joe 250-425-5387

Ofﬁce/Retail 302 2nd Ave Fernie 1200 sq. feet, handicap washroom, heating & air con, on ground level. Call Joe 250-423-1076

SELF STORAGE: Personal & commercial. Call Finnigan’s Storage. 250423-3308 or 250-423-4207.

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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

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

Transportation

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Legal Notices

Land Act: Notice of Intention to Apply for a Disposition of Crown Land FrontCounter BC Cranbrook has accepted an application made by the Jack Mindek (Elko Hilltop Services Ltd) of 5385 Hwy #3 Elko, BC V0B 1T3, on behalf of the Ministry of Forests, Lands and Natural Resource Operations (MFLNRO), Kootenay Region, to amend their License of Operation - Quarry to extend the dates of operation within the quarry near Elko BC located on Provincial Crown land within & adjacent to lots 1-20 Blk 57B and lots 1-10 Blk 55 and containing 2.2 hectares more or less. The MFLNRO File Numbers that have been established for this application is 4401720. Written comments concerning this application should be directed to FrontCounter BC, 1902 Theatre Road, Cranbrook B.C., V1C 7G1 or email to: AuthorizingAgency.Cranbrook@gov.bc.ca. Comments will be received by FrontCounter BC until Jan 22, 2014. FrontCounter BC may not be able to consider comments received after this date. Please refer to our website ->http://www.arfd.gov.bc.ca/ApplicationPosting/ index.jsp -> Search -> Search by File Number: insert Lands File Number for more information. These applications will be available for viewing at FrontCounter BC in Cranbrook, BC.

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

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

Be advised that any response to this advertisement will be considered part of the public record. For information, contact the FOI Adviser at the Ministry of Forests, Lands and Natural Resource Operations regional office in Cranbrook.

Modular Homes

4 OUT OF 5 PEOPLE WITH DIABETES DIE OF HEART DISEASE. Better your odds. Visit getserious.ca

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

Area of Application

Boats World’s Finest FISHING BOATS

Weldcraft, Hewescraft, Lund, Godfrey Pontoons Mark’s Marine, Hayden, ID 1-888-821-2200 www.marksmarineinc.com

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THE FREE PRESS Thursday, December 26, 2013

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PET 14. 24. 26. 27. 29. 31. 32. 33. 35. 37. 38. 39. 42. 43.

photos! and a small description.

My name is Cyrus, I am a Siamese Rat that is dearly loved and friendly.

updated: Fri., December 20 9:00 MST, Sparwood

r 27, 2012 Thursday, Decembe

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Fernie Ski Hill OpensPage 14 ELKFORD

First Elkford Council Sworn in - Page 17

WEEKEND

WEATHER

SUNDAY

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

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on uk

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Sparwood Mall concept- Page 16

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

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

24-hr Snow N/A Wind N/A Hours of sunshine N/A

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

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October 2013

Grizzly shot near Mount Fernie Provincial Park By Tamara Hynd Free Press Staff

he Conservation Officer Service (COS) asked owners and land managers to close the trails temporarily on the west side of Mount Fernie Provincial Park (MFPP) and part of the F.A.R. ski hill area accessing the Lizard Creek (Gorby Creek trail network) after a sow grizzly bear was shot and injured by a hiker on Wednesday, October 2.

Two adults were hiking on the Galloway trail near Gorby trail when they came across a sow grizzly bear with two 2-year-old cubs that were feeding on a moose carcass. Initially the sow came towards the hikers and diverted into the bushes with her two cubs. The sow came out from the bushes without the cubs and came at the hikers. The male hiker had a high-powered rifle and discharged one shot at the sow that was 10 to 15 feet away. When the shot hit the sow,

THE FREE PRESS Thursday, December 26, 2013

she went into the grass by the trail allowing the hikers to depart the area. The hikers notified COS as soon as they got out of the area by mid afternoon. The hiker had the appropriate license for the firearm. COS initiated an investigation of the area in the evening of October 2 until it became dark. COS returned to the area on Thursday, October 3 looking for the bear. COS notified Island Lake Lodge, Fernie Alpine Resort and B.C. Parks requesting they tell their guests and flag off trails warning of an injured bear in the area. COS followed a blood trail for 75 to 100 yards which headed towards a creek with

thick brush. Due to safety reasons the search was called off. “Dealing with an injured sow with cubs and a food source at a crucial time of year is a high risk situation,” said COS Joe Caravetta. “Our hearing ability was compromised because of the creek noise and a bear would not be able to smell us as the wind was coming towards us.” The area is closed for approximately 10 days to give the moose carcass time to be eaten by scavengers. COS is relying on the public to report any bear sightings in the area. “There are two possibilities with the sow grizzly,” said COS Joe Caravetta. “The

bear perished in the bushes and we hope the cubs will return to their winter dens from last year. Or the bear is still alive and continues to feed preparing for winter. If she’s not dead, she could return to the moose carcass to feed.” With that in mind, the trails in the area are closed until after the Thanksgiving weekend in the hope that scavengers will eat the remains of the moose. There is the real possibility that other bears may come to feed on the moose carcass. The areas closed are the west end trails of Mount Fernie Provincial Park, F.A.R. trails leading into the MFPP and the southwest property of Island Lake Lodge.

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THE FREE PRESS Thursday, December 26, 2013

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November 2013

Teck continues random drug testing at Elk Valley coalmines By Tamara Hynd Free Press Staff

he United Steel Workers local 9346 (Elkview) took Teck Coal Ltd.’s drug and alcohol testing policy to the Court of Appeal while the issue is before the Labour Relations Board in efforts to halt the testing in the interim. On Nov. 12, the B.C. Court of Appeal dismissed the appeal for an interim injunction on Teck's drug and alcohol policy on the grounds that the Labour Relations Board has jurisdiction on the matter. That means Teck can continue to randomly test

employees for drug use at five of the open pit coalmine facilities in the Elk Valley while the matter is currently before the Labour Relations Board. The Court of Appeal made no determination as to the actual injunction, the merits of the case, or any other determination regarding the legality of random testing. They simply stated that they did not have the jurisdiction to even look at the injunction case, and decided it belonged before the Labour Board where it now currently resides. "It’s unfortunate that the Court of Appeal has

refused jurisdiction,” said Alex Hanson, president of United Steelworkers Local 9346. “We do have another appeal before the Labour Board. We continue to believe the Arbitrator committed fundamental errors in his decision not to grant us an injunction as happened in Alberta with the Suncor injunction. "The Supreme Court of Canada has already ruled this type of testing is not permissible except under extreme conditions which do not exist in our mines. We are asking the Labour Board act quickly to hear our appeal.”

Success By 6 parties with Shred Kelly By Tamara Hynd Free Press Staff

The City of Fernie wishes everyone a Happy New Year and all the best for 2014

501-3rd Avenue, Fernie Phone: 250-423-6817 Fax: 250-423-3034

wo musicians from Shred Kelly took the stage for a free dance party at The Arts Station on Nov. 7 to a crowd of very youthful and excited fans. Over 70 children aged six and younger practiced their dance moves thanks to the Fernie Early Years (FEY) team. FEY coordinator Jodie Parker helped organize the concert to celebrate the 10 years Success By 6 has been in the Elk Valley. Keyboardist and vocalist Sage McBride and lead singer and banjo plucker Tim Newton soon had the hopping crowd spinning like tops and singing

out farm animal sounds. As a preschool teacher, McBride has taught many Fernie children so Shred Kelly’s fan base includes an abundance of young children. A peacock feather headband and a red felt cowboy hat worn by McBride and Newton inspired the children to sing along to animal noises including creating a sound for a fox. The imaginative crowd fed into Shred Kelly’s lively stage presence. The Fernie Early Years Team assists families in accessing information that supports healthy child development and addresses the importance of the first six years of a child's life.

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