The Free Press, January 01, 2015 by Black Press Media Group

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Avalanche Awareness Days - Page 5 ELKFORD

Christmas decorating contest- Page 3 COMMUNITY

Remembering Connor Gliege - Page 6

SPORTS

Yalaine Hames, Kerri Holmes and Rebecca Edwards played at the Loaf on December 20 as part of the Jingle Jam concert series.

Local brings home gold - Page 13

BUSINESS

Donation jar stolen from local store By Katelyn Dingman Free Press Staff

L Loaf hosts five year anniversary - Page 2

Photo by S. Kucharski

ocal RCMP are investigating the theft of the “Smiles for Shyanne” donation jar, which was stolen from the Fernie 7-11 store between Christmas Eve and Christmas Day. The donation jar was set up to raise funds for local Shyanne Osmond

who will be undergoing a multitude of surgeries in 2015 to treat her rare form of an arteriovenous malformation (AVM) — a type of congenital formation that creates an abnormal connection of blood between the arteries and veins. Police say the funds were stolen from the 7-11 between 5:30 a.m. on December 24 and 7:15 p.m. on

December 25. “The staff at 7-11 didn’t see anything,” Elk Valley Sgt. Will Thien said. “At this point, if the public has any information, please give us a call.” The amount collected has not yet been determined, and according to the Smiles for Shyanne Facebook page, the jars will be removed from

several locations around town. Thien noted that this type of theft is not uncommon during the holiday season. “We do see this kind of stuff quite often during Christmas time,” he noted. “Christmas brings out the best in people but it also brings out the worst in people.”

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THE FREE PRESS Thursday, January 1, 2015

Avalanche Canada highlights changes at workshop

different look, it actually works in a whole new way,” said Coulter. The website is now predominantly taken up by a colour-coded map that will allow mountain-goers to zoom in on their specific area and receive avalanche updates from both officials and other recreational users on the mountain who will form the Mountain Information Network. “It’s meant to be a one-stop Avalanche Canada will be hosting an information workshop in shop for public avalanche weather forecasts,” Fernie. Photo submitted by Raven Eye Photography explained Coulter of the By Sarah Kucharski update. Free Press Staff Coulter adds that the Mountain Information Network is meant to create a community that valanche Canada will be hosting a work- is engaged and will allow users to provide shop in Fernie to inform the public about their own observations from the mountain, changes within the organization and building on Avalanche Canada’s former one-way to educate locals on their new approach to communication of sending out crunched data engaging powder enthusiasts. numbers to the public. “We want to let people out there in the “With the Mountain Information Network,” community know about us and we want to said Coulter, “we allow backcountry users, who introduce ourselves,” said Avalanche Field aren’t necessarily professionals to submit their Technician Jennifer Coulter. own snowpack and avalanche observations and Having undergone a name change from the have them be viewed by not only the avalanche Canadian Avalanche Centre to Avalanche Canada, forecasters but also the riding community as a Coulter said that one of the main messages of the whole. In this way, we as recreational users of workshop is to inform the public of the many the backcountry can share observations with changes the organization has gone through — each other to help make the backcountry a safer including its new map-based website. place.” “We have a brand new website that’s been The workshop will take place January 8 from launched this fall and it’s more than just a 7-9 p.m. at the Fernie Golf Course.

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Locals celebrated the Loaf’s five year anniversary on December 20. By Sarah Kucharski Free Press Staff

oaf Bakery and Restaurant in Fernie celebrated its five year anniversary on December 20, cutting into a cake and welcoming eager locals through its doors. “We had a really great time and lots of local faces came in, which was nice,” said owner Phil Gadd. “We're so grateful for all the local support we've received since 2009,” added his wife Claire. Over five years, Loaf has expanded from its original small location, a miners cottage on

Submitted photo

6th ave. to its current premises on 2nd ave. as well as a smaller store in Sparwood that was acquired in February 2014. “We’ve grown from a small five-person company to employing over 20 employees … It’s been a pretty rapid journey, but a good one,” said Gadd. Gadd noted that locals seem to embrace the hand-made products that Loaf is famous for, notably their artisanal bread. Customers present had their names entered into a draw to win a Christmas basket during the celebrations.

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U.S. Senate moves to protect Flathead watershed By Sarah Kucharski Free Press Staff

ast month, the U.S. Senate officially passed the North Fork Watershed Protection Act, which will ban the development of mining, oil and gas in the entire transnational Flathead watershed. The act has been in the works since 2010 when the B.C.-Montana Memorandum of Understanding was signed by former Govenor of Montana Brian Schweitzer and B.C. Premier Gordon Campbell, promising to put an official ban in place. “We have this beautiful watershed that’s protected from those kinds of activities, however, there is still a loophole in both the Canadian and American legislation which allows those developments to happen in rock quarries. So that’s a piece that still needs to be cleaned up,” noted Wildsight’s Southern Rockies Program Manager Ryland Nelson. “The flathead is one of the most biologically important places in North America. It’s right in our backyard and it’s a place where these

kinds of development are just not appropriate.” He went on to say, “It’s been great working with both of our partners in Canada and in the U.S. to make them … commit to legislating an affirmative ban on mining, oil and gas developments.” Nelson noted, however, that there is a loophole in the legislation that allows mining, oil and gas developments to continue in rock quarry areas of the Flathead, which he said Wildsight will continue to work towards adding to the banned legislation. In addition to hosting a dense population of grizzly bears and a rich diversity of plant species, the Flathead is also home to the Waterton-Glacier National Peace Park. Nelson notes that the B.C. portion of the Flathead is the “missing piece” of the Peace Park that is not officially protected park area, as the portions that cross through Alberta and Montana are. “It’s time for B.C. to match that protection by adding the southeastern one-third of the WatertonGlacier National Peace Park,” said Nelson.

Decorating Elkford homes for the holidays

Elkford hosted their annual Christmas decorating contest with Terry and Rosemarie Penney winning in the downtown category for their “Christmas is for Children” display, John and Vera Reese winning in the midtown category with their “Simple and Elegant” display and the Bert Schalekamp Family taking home the uptown prize for their “The Maple Leaf” decor. Submitted photo

THE FREE PRESS Thursday, January 1, 2015

Mental health for children and youth -

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veryone has times of feeling anxious, scared or fearful. In fact, without our body’s how to get help if you need it innate ability to sense and respond to Dr. David Smith pending danger, we would never have survived as humans. These days, however, anxiety disorders are like a car alarm repeatedly sounding when there is no real threat. Anxiety disorders are the most common mental health concern for children in B.C., affecting an estimated four per cent of all children, impacting their day-to-day life, their friendships, their school performance, their physical health and their sense of well-being. My colleagues and I in the mental health field are concerned that in this modern, fast-paced, wired world, anxiety disorders in children are greatly increasing. We are seeing more children than ever before who are constrained and made miserable by their fears when they should be feeling safe, secure, confident and happy. Anxious feelings include a rapid heartbeat, difficulty catching one’s breathe, a sense of doom, sweaty palms, an upset stomach or stomach pain, even nausea and vomiting. Focusing on the feelings can cause them to intensify; it’s a vicious cycle. Anxious symptoms become a true anxiety disorder when the anxiety leads to avoidance of the situation that is causing the anxiety and causes significant physical distress and disruption of daily life and functioning. An unresolved anxiety disorder can often lead to depression or substance use problems in future years. Anxiety, however, exists on a spectrum. A certain amount of anxiety is normal and beneficial. It keeps our children safe and conscientious; it motivates them to perform well. Children who tend to be anxious are often model students: high achieving, diligent, analytical, sensitive, alert, creative and imaginative. Too little anxiety and a child or teenager may take foolish risks or lack motivation to succeed. But too much anxiety and children become so paralyzed by fear that they may be unable to leave their parent’s side, leave the house, go to school, make friends or participate in normal life. The good news is that anxiety can be very successfully managed or treated when required. Regular exercise and reliable routines in children are often all it takes to quell mild cases. Mild and moderate anxiety is very responsive to Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), which is a process of addressing the unhelpful thoughts and actions that underlie anxiety. Thought stopping, talking back to negative thoughts, not believing everything you think, relaxation techniques like calming breathing, mindfulness meditation, and gradual safe exposure to the things you fear are all examples of types of CBT. All children — and adults, too — could benefit from learning simple CBT techniques to turn off their body alarms that are sounding unnecessarily. In more long term or severe cases of anxiety — such as panic disorders, Post Traumatic Stress Disorder, Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder — treatment may include a period of anti-anxiety medication in addition to teaching the child age-appropriate CBT techniques, an approach called “pills plus skills.” If you are worried about your child or teenager’s anxiety, there are many places to get help. Many online resources as well as books, some written for specific age groups, are available to give in depth information about anxiety and step-by-step instructions for specific CBT techniques. For parents of children and youth, the FORCE Society, in partnership with MCFD’s FRIENDS Program, offers an online parent program for parents of children ages 4-13 years. Anxiety BC (anxietybc.ca ) is another great site and offers detailed pages for adults and youth. Other sites include mindcheck.ca and keltymentalhealth.ca. If you feel your child needs professional help, see your family doctor or call Service BC at 1-800-661-8773 and ask for the MCFD Child and Youth Mental Health office in your community. Next column, we will talk about depression in children and teenagers.

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THE FREE PRESS Thursday, January 1, 2015

Raging Elk Hostel spreads Christmas joy to Fernie locals Submitted

ith music in hand, head lamps, and Santa hats, the carolers sang as long awaited snow fell from the sky. Starting at the Raging Elk Hostel, backpackers and locals, young and old, took to the streets of Fernie on the eve of December 23. The group brought the old Christmas tradition of door to door caroling to life. Sadie Howse, owner/operator of the

Raging Elk Hostel and Kodiak Lounge organized the evening of singing. She made sure the group stopped by the Trinity Lodge and Tom Uphill Manor to share the fun and spirit with some local seniors. Even a few local deer came out of a back alley to enjoy the show. The children were amazed that ‘Santa's reindeer were listening too.’ The carolers stumbled through a few songs but laughed it off and kept going. By

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Regional District of East Kootenay

2015 Board Dates

The 2015 RDEK Board Meetings will be held as follows: January 9 June 26 February 6 August 7 March 6 September 4 April 10 October 2 May 1 November 6 May 29 December 4 The meetings begin at 9:00am in the RDEK Board Room at the Cranbrook RDEK office. Committee Meetings are held the Thursday immediately before Board. Both the Committee Meetings and Board Meetings are open to the public. Agendas can be viewed a week prior to the Board Meeting on our website www.rdek.bc.ca. 19 - 24th Avenue South, Cranbrook BC V1C 3H8 Phone: 250-489-2791 Toll Free: 1-888-478-7335 Email: info@rdek.bc.ca Website: www.rdek.bc.ca

the end of the night they realized their talents lay with simpler songs such as Rudolf the Red-Nosed Reindeer. Residents were extremely appreciative. Grateful comments on Facebook were immediate. This reaction was exactly what Howse was hoping for. Some residents gave unexpected donations, which Howse chose to pass on to the Elk Valley Hospice.

re you

The Parent Trip

making a New Year’s resolution? I am. I usually make one to be nicer, or more Shelby Cain generous, or to go to the gym more than once a month. One year it was to re-connect with long lost relatives. I never actually did any of those things. I tried for patience last year but blew that one before brunch was over. Back to the drawing board. I have a new idea. This year, my New Year’s resolution is to act more like my kids. Maybe being a mature adult is overrated. Is this a good idea? Probably not. But the other day as I was lecturing them about why they should hang their snow pants in the boot room to avoid making puddles, I had one of those out-of-body experiences. You know those ones where you suddenly hear yourself, as if from the perspective of an outside observer? Well, as I listened to myself drone on about wet socks all I could think was, Oh, get over it! Who the hell cares? It was like an epiphany. The looks on my kid’s faces were a perfect combination of confused sympathy. Like, are wet socks really that disastrous Mom? Just take them off, duh! I couldn’t agree more. Lately it seems like the more I try to keep order in my house, the more I sound like the warden in a prison for preschoolers. Not much fun. Time to lighten up a little. And no one knows how to keep it light more than kids. So how will I actually apply this resolution to my everyday life?

1. Focus on the overall goal, instead of the irrelevant details. Are the cookies delicious? Yes. Does the kitchen look like the scene of a messy cocaine bust? Oh well. Backpackers and locals caroled through the 2. Ask more questions. Instead of streets of Fernie on December 23. Submitted photo trying not to rock the boat, I might give it a little shake. 3. Determine the value of something by how it makes me feel, not how much it costs. Price tags are irrelevant. 4. Be proud of how old I am. 5. If someone tells me I’m good at something, believe it. Then stand a little taller. 6. Eat deliciously unhealthy food with unbridled joy. What’s the point of feeling guilty? I’m going to eat it anyways. KYLE KYLE HAMILTON HAMILTON PHOTOGRAPHY PHOTOGRAPHY 7. Dance to the songs I like. Anywhere. 250 250423 4230904 0904 8. Cry when www.kylehamiltonphotography.com www.kylehamiltonphotography.com I’m sad. Being tough gives me a headache. 9. Show how happy I am to see my friends. Invite them over, even if it’s not a good time. 10. If my socks get wet, I’ll just take them off.

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THE FREE PRESS Thursday, January 1, 2015

THE YEAR IN REVIEW

JANUARY 2014

Having a blast at FAR’s Avalanche Awareness Days By Nicole Obre Free Press Staff

Kids gather round for avalanche safety tips.

Photo by N. Obre

kiers and boarders took a break from the slopes on Saturday to learn the importance of avalanche awareness. Put on by the Canadian Avalanche Centre and CP Rail and hosted at the base of Fernie Alpine Resort, Avalanche Awareness Days was full of interactive and educational activities. Set up by the Deer Chair was everything one needs to know about avalanche awareness and safety, including transceiver education and a practice course, as well as avalanche and backcountry trivia. Avalanche rescue dog Digger stopped by with his trainer Kirk Gutzman to say hi to the crowd and give a Canadian Avalanche Rescue Dog Association demonstration. After a screening of Throttle Decisions, a snowmobile backcountry educational video in the Daylodge, the day wrapped up with a fundraising Trainer Kirk Gutzman gets ready to show the crowd what avalanche rescue dog Digger can do. Photo by N. Obre auction in the Griz Bar. 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

Christmas Tree Disposal Christmas trees will be accepted for disposal at the RDEK Transfer Station, #6 Inkaneep Road in the Industrial Park. This is the only approved location within Elkford. Transfer Station Hours of Operation Tuesday to Friday: 9:30 am - 3:00 pm Saturday: 10:00 am - 5:00 pm Sundays, Mondays and Holidays: Closed

Business License Renewals The 2015 Business License Renewals have been sent out. The Annual Business License fee is $100. If payment is received by January 15, 2015, the renewal fee is reduced to $75. If you have a 2014 Business License and did not receive your 2015 renewal notice, please contact the District Ofﬁce.

Dog License Renewals The 2015 Dog License Renewals have been sent out. The fee is $25 or $11 for a spayed or neutered dog license. A late fee of $5 will be charged if the license is not purchased by the end of February. If you are a new pet owner, you are required to purchase a license for your dog. For ﬁrst time registration, please bring the certiﬁcate of spaying/neutering.

2015 Council Meeting Schedule January 12 and January 26, 2015 February 10 and February 23, 2015 March 9 and March 23, 2015 April 13 and April 27, 2015 May 11 and May 25, 2015 June 8 and June 22, 2015 July 13 and July 27, 2015 August 10 and August 24, 2015 September 14 and September 28, 2015 October 13 and October 26, 2015 November 9 and November 23, 2015 December 14, 2015 Meetings commence at 6:00 pm in the Council Chambers. Elkford Municipal Ofﬁce 816 Michel Road Elkford, B.C.

NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING

District of Elkford Official Community Plan Amendment Bylaw No. 763, 2014 TAKE NOTICE that pursuant to Section 890 and 892 of the Local Government Act the Council of the District of Elkford will hold a Public Hearing to hear representations of persons who deem their interest affected by the proposed District of Elkford Official Community Plan Amendment Bylaw No. 763, 2014 at: 6:00 pm on Monday, January 12, 2015 Council Chambers, 816 Michel Road Intent of Bylaw Amendment No. 763, 2014: To amend Schedule “A” of the District of Elkford Official Community Plan Bylaw No. 710, 2010 including: 1. Adding Policy 4 to subsection 8.2.4.1 Civic/Institutional to read: “P 4. Civic/Institutional land uses could include commercial accommodation that would complement the institutional development.” 2. Amending Section 9.2.4 Floodplain Development Permit Area Guidelines. 3. Amending Section 9.3.4 Wildfire Development Permit Area Exemptions. 4. Changing the chapter number for Implication and Monitoring from Chapter 10.0 to Chapter 12.0 and re-number all the sub-sections of the chapter accordingly. 5. Adding Chapter 10.0 Temporary Use Permits to allow for the consideration of a temporary use in all of OCP area. 6. Adding Chapter 11.0 Development Approval Information Area to allow the District to request information to help determine potential development impacts within all of OCP area. Location: District Wide (entire OCP area). Applicant: District of Elkford. The proposed bylaw may be inspected between the hours of 8:00 am and 4:30 pm, Monday through Friday, excluding holidays, from December 18, 2014 to January 12, 2015 at the District of Elkford Office, 816 Michel Road, Elkford, BC and on the District’s website at www.elkford.ca. If unable to attend the Public Hearing, persons may submit written comments no later than 4:30 pm, January 12, 2015 to: District of Elkford P.O. Box 340, 816 Michel Road Elkford, BC V0B 1H0 info@elkford.ca All persons must include their name and civic address in the submission. All submissions will form part of the record of the Public Hearing. Please note that no further information or submissions can be considered by Council after the conclusion of the Public Hearing. Curtis Helgesen, Chief Administrative Officer December 18, 2014

THE FREE PRESS Thursday, January 1, 2015

Opinion

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Editorial by Katelyn Dingman

The holidays are finally over and like many others, I feel as though I need a holiday from my holiday. Before the holidays, I wrote an editorial encouraging people to relax and enjoy conversing with friends and family. But now that the holidays are over, I’ve realized that this is easier said than done. With so many people to see and so much food, too much food to eat in fact, the holidays seemed more like a full time job than a break from the daily grind. But now the New Year is upon us and it’s time to set goals, whether those goals entail getting fit, saving money or spending more time with family. After breaking countless New Year’s resolutions year after year, I’ve decided to make my New Years resolution simple this year. I’m simply going to work towards being a happier, healthier version of myself. I know this isn’t going to happen right away, especially after indulging in copious amounts of Christmas food this holiday season, but I know that this goal is attainable. I think it becomes challenging to achieve your New Year’s resolution when you set your goals too high. You see it happen year after year; January hits and the gyms crowd with men and women eager to fulfill their resolution. Inactive people try to do a complete 180, and they go from sitting on the couch day after day to going to the gym seven days a week. I’m not saying this is a bad thing at all, it’s just something that commonly doesn’t last for people. I find it a lot easier to slowly ease into a healthy lifestyle, to set simple goals, reach them and then set further goals for yourself. When is the last time you stuck with your resolution? It’s definitely a difficult task. Maybe it’s just enough to say, “I’m going to have a better year this year.” That means something different for everyone, but when you set a goal like this, many individuals will be able to look back on the year prior and know their resolution was achieved and they did in fact, have a better year than the one before. Failure is not something anyone is fond of, so instead of setting ourselves up to fail, why not make realistic, attainable goals this New Year and work day by day to fulfill them. The Free Press staff are looking forward to 2015, and after a year of covering a wide array of stories ranging from community events and local fundraisers to an attempted robbery and unfavourable road conditions, we look forward to bringing you more local news this coming year. I hope everyone had a safe holiday and we looking forward to serving the Elk Valley in 2015.

Katelyn Dingman EDITOR

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FRONT OFFICE In Absentia

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FEBRUARY 2014

Conz Memorial Park Rail Jam remembers Connor Gliege

Wapiti Ski hill spent Saturday celebrating the life of Connor Gliege with the Conz Memorial Park Jam. By Tamara Hynd Free Press Staff

apiti Ski hill spent the day celebrating a young man friends call the CONZ with a rail jam. Connor Gliege, 22, was killed near Fernie last August while dirt biking on a forest service road. Three days prior to his tragic death, the Hosmer/ Fernie resident had volunteered to

design, build and groom a new rail park at the Wapiti ski hill, said event organizer Scott Courtemanche. “Connor was an amazing kid,” said Courtemanche. “Hopefully we can do him justice today. We added a couple of Connor’s rails [to the park].” The park is in a new location on the ski hill and has different sized jumps than last year.

T. Hynd

Approximately 40 tricksters ranging in age from 10 to 35 rode the rails and launched the jumps during the park jam. Huge prizes included Fernie Wilderness Adventure cat skiing, a Fernie Brewing Co. keg of beer, gift certificates from El Guapo and Mugshots Cafe, gear and gift cards from Gear Hub Fernie, gear from Commit, Edge of the World Fernie and Boardstiff.

POLL OF THE WEEK Do you plan on celebrating New Years with a bang (fireworks)?

Yes 21% No 79% This week’s poll question: Did you make a New Year’s resolution?

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

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MARCH 2014

Localized flooding hits valley By Nicole Obre Free Press Staff

fter a week of warm weather and more rain hitting the Elk Valley on Sunday, the rapid melting of snow and runoff has led to localized flooding throughout the region. Several homes and businesses have reported water in basements, as well as pooling or running water in yards. At this point, no one within the Regional District of East Kootenay has been displaced from their homes. For those affected, sand and sandbags are available at the Fernie Mainroad Contracting yard on Dicken Road and Shop Road. A crew from the Wildfire Management Branch filled over 2,000 sandbags by hand in the Elk Valley Sunday and Monday and with the help of an automatic sandbagger were expected to fill a few thousand more on Tuesday. Members of the Jaffray Volunteer Fire Department assisted with pumping and diverting water Monday night at a residence in Jaffray as rapid melting started to cause some overland flooding. The unit crew from the Wildfire Management Branch also assisted with sandbagging in Jaffray. Sand and sandbags are available at the Jaffray Pub and Sunrise Grill parking lot. There will also be sand and empty bags for residents to self fill if the supply of filled bags runs out. With the run-off conditions seeing little change and stockpiles of sandbags completed in Fernie on Monday, Emergency Management B.C. recalled the unit crews and they will no longer be available to assist.

“We are so grateful to the Wildfire Management Branch and the members of the unit crews who have been working long hours doing everything from filling sandbags by hand to placing sandbags from Gold Creek to Fernie and all points in between,” said Information Officer Loree Duczek. “This is hard, physical work and many people have been able to access sandbags quickly under rapidly changing conditions this week thanks to their efforts.” Although the unit crews were pulled out on Monday, the need for sandbagging in the Jaffray area remained. “There is a lot of water starting to run in Jaffray and we would like to be ready if the forecasted warmer temperatures materialize this week and the water levels start to increase there,” commented Duczek. The self fill sandbag station remained set up at the Jaffray Pub parking lot and members of the Jaffray Volunteer Fire Department continued to fill sandbags Tuesday night. At press time, the forecast was calling for drier conditions and temperatures between 8 and 10 degrees above zero for the rest of the week. The Regional District of East Kootenay is advising people to stay off lakes and away from rivers, streams, and creeks as ice conditions can be highly unpredictable given the current conditions. The Ministry of Transportation and Infrastructure and Mainroad Contracting were also working on a number of issues along roads and highways in the Elk Valley throughout the week. For the latest road conditions, visit www. drivebc.ca.

APRIL 2014

Noisy situation as public overflows Council Chambers By Tamara Hynd Free Press Staff

he Fernie City Chambers were overflowing as the public came to discuss the issues relating to noise disturbances in the downtown core. Over 60 people filled the Council Chambers with 15 more spilling out into the landing on the morning of April 16. Elk Valley RCMP Sgt. Will Thien and Liquor Inspector Graeme Anderson from the province's Liquor Control and Licensing branch were present. Twenty-one people ranging from residents to business owners addressed Council. Comments were mixed with support for a vibrant downtown core to include a thriving nightlife to some residents feeling unsafe, stating the activities downtown are completely out of control. Most present were in agreement that whatever the cause may be, the gathering of people in the downtown core after closing hours of establishments is the common cause leading to occurrences of public drunkenness, littering, vandalism, public urination, noise and vomit on the streets and sidewalks. Mike Delich addressed Council stating he was part of the downtown task force committee formed in 2008. They created a list of tasks recommended to the City which included dealing with street vendors, closing some alleyways, lighting and cameras. He asked for Council to complete the outstanding tasks while they are still in their present term of office which ends in six months. “Six years later we have the illumines and

there's a request for proposal for the cameras,” said Delich. “We need your conviction to complete the matters.” Other speakers pointed out the lack of a public washroom available after 8 pm, a small taxi service and a street vendor with a City permit to serve food beyond 2 am. Several bar managers and owners mentioned their efforts and willingness to make improvements and welcomed suggestions. Many bars have had an audio engineer evaluate sound system audio readings and in November ran a course for staff on safe audible levels. It is important to note that a business's authority to manage patrons behaviour ends at the establishment's door. The RCMP and City bylaw officer take over from there. Anderson did confirm that there have been fines and licence suspensions in Fernie establishments over the last 18 months. He later commented that Fernie's pub and bar activity is busier than similar establishments elsewhere in the region. For example, Cranbrook liquor licensees are only starting to become busy again as the city is economically recovering. He said there is a penalty schedule that all licensees are well aware of and if identical contravention occurs in any 12 month period the penalties do increase. Councillor Dan McSkimming was acting mayor in Mary Giuliano's absence. McSkimming touched on the subject at the regular council meeting later that same evening commenting that city staff will be compiling the information gathered from the public for the council to review.

THE FREE PRESS Thursday, January 1, 2015

Don't Forget Fernie Rotary Weekly Meetings Wednesdays at 12:00 Noon at the

Park Place Lodge 742 Highway 3 • Fernie

January 16-18 Vogue Theatre

Presenting Five Feature Films:

Fernie’s 7th Annual

5 Feature Films Shorts & Childrens’ Programming Opening & Closing Receptions Get your Festival Passes NOW for just $40 each at the Arts Station Single show tickets at the door.

Monsoon

For all the latest info visit:

ReelFilmFest.ca

www.thefreepress.ca

THE FREE PRESS Thursday, January 1, 2015

Want your event listed in Around the Valley and on-line?

THE HOBBIT:

The Battle of the Five Armies RATED PG • 7 pm Nightly 6:45 & 9:30 Fri., Sat. & Tues.

Friday, Jan. 2 - Thursday, Jan. 8

BOOK THE ARCADE FOR YOUR NEXT AFTERNOON OR EVENING PARTY! Visit www.ferniemovies.com for more info. Call 250-423-3132 to book.

NIGHT at the MUSEUM:

321-2 Avenue, Fernie

RATED PG • 7 pm Nightly 7 & 9 pm Fri., Sat., & Sun. 3 pm Matinees Sat. & Sun. Extra Matinees on Dec. 22-24 & Dec. 27-Jan. 1 ($6.50 - 2D & $8.50 - 3D)

250-423-7111 Movieline

Secret of the Tomb

www.ferniemovies.com

ADD IT ONLINE

Find out what’s happening in your community and submit your own local events.

Event submissions are FREE!

go to:

www.thefreepress.ca/calendar/submit/

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

• 6:15 to 8:00am – Early Bird Swim at the Sparwood Pool • 7:00am to 8:00pm – Fitness Centre Open at the Fernie Aquatic Centre • 7:00am to 1:00pm – Public Swim at the Fernie Aquatic Centre • 8:00 to 9:30am – Lanes and Leisure at the Sparwood Pool • 8:30 to 9:15am – Active Fit at the Fernie Aquatic Centre • 8:45 to 10:15am – Adult Shinny at the Fernie Memorial Arena • 9:30 to 10:30am –Aquafit at the Sparwood Pool • 10:30 to noon – Lanes and Leisure at the Sparwood Pool • 12:00 to 1:00pm – Lane Swim at the Sparwood Pool • 12:00 to 1:00pm – Skate & Shoot Hockey 18+ at the Sparwood Arena • 3:00pm to 8:00pm – Public Swim at the Fernie Aquatic Centre • 3:45 to 5:00pm – Public Skating at the Sparwood Arena • 4:00 – Special Olympics Athletes Bowling at Sparwood Lanes • 4:00 to 5:30pm – Public Swim at the Sparwood Pool • 5:30 to 6:30pm – Lane Swim at the Sparwood Pool • 7:30 to 9:00 pm – Women’s Night at Old School Boxing • 8:00 to 9:00pm – Aquafit at the Sparwood Pool • 8:00 to 9:00pm – 14+ Swim at the Sparwood Pool

Tuesdays

• 7:00am to 8:00pm – Fitness Centre Open at the Fernie Aquatic Centre • 7:00am to 1:00pm – Public Swim at the Fernie Aquatic Centre • 8:45 to 10:15am – Adult Shinny at the Fernie Memorial Arena • 9:30 to 10:15am – Low Impact Aquafit at the Sparwood Pool • 9:30 to 10:15am – Aquafit at the Elkford Aquatic Centre • 10:30 to 11:15am – Free Admission Public Skate at the Fernie Memorial Arena • 10:30 to 1:00pm – Lane Swim at the Sparwood Pool • 10:30 to noon – Toonie Swim at the Elkford Aquatic Centre • 10:30 to 11:15am – Gentle Fit at the Fernie Aquatic Centre • 12:00 to 1:00pm – Skate & Shoot Hockey 18+ at the Sparwood Arena • 1:00 to 2:30pm – Lanes and Leisure at the Sparwood Pool • 1:30 to 2:30pm – Parent and Tot Skating at the Sparwood Arena • 1:30 to 2:30pm – Water Walking at the Sparwood Pool • 3:00pm to 8:00pm – Public Swim

at the Fernie Aquatic Centre • 3:45 to 4:45 pm – Swim Club at the Elkford Aquatic Centre • 4:00 to 6:00pm – Water Slide Open at the Fernie Aquatic Centre • 5:30 to 6:30pm – Lane Swim at the Sparwood Pool • 6:30 to 8:00pm – Public Swim at the Sparwood Pool • 6:30 to 8:30pm – Opt Fernie Clinic at the Elk Valley Hospital • 7:00 to 8:00pm – Public Skating at the Sparwood Arena • 8:00 to 9:00pm – 14+ Swim at the Sparwood Pool

Wednesdays

• 6:15 to 8:00am – Early Bird Swim at the Sparwood Pool • 7:00am to 8:00pm – Fitness Centre Open at the Fernie Aquatic Centre • 7:00 to 1:00pm – Public Swim at the Fernie Aquatic Centre • 8:00 to 9:30am – Lanes and Leisure at the Sparwood Pool • 8:30 to 9:15am – Active Fit at the Fernie Aquatic Centre • 8:45 to 10:15am – Adult Shinny at the Fernie Memorial Arena • 9:30 to 10:30am –Aquafit at the Sparwood Pool • 9:30 to 10:15am – Aquafit at the Elkford Aquatic Centre • 10:30 to noon – Lanes and Leisure at the Sparwood Pool • 10:30 to noon – Toonie Swim at the Elkford Aquatic Centre • 12:00 to 1:00pm – Lane Swim at the Sparwood Pool • 12:00pm - Fernie Rotary Meeting Park Place Lodge • 12:00 to 1:00pm – Skate & Shoot Hockey 18+ at the Sparwood Arena • 1:15 to 2:30pm – Skate & Shoot at the Fernie Memorial Arena • 3:00pm to 8:00pm – Public Swim at the Fernie Aquatic Centre • 3:45 to 5:00pm – Public Skating at the Sparwood Arena • 3:45 to 5:00pm – After School Rec Hockey at the Sparwood Arena • 3:45 to 4:45 pm – Swim Club at the Elkford Aquatic Centre • 4:00 to 5:30pm – Public Swim at the Sparwood Pool • 5:30 to 6:30pm – Lane Swim at the Sparwood Pool • 7:00 to 9:00pm – Healing Rooms Open at Mountainside Church • 7:30 – Ladies Darts at the Fernie Legion (new members welcome) • 8:00 to 9:00pm – 14+ Swim at the Sparwood Pool • 8:00 to 9:00pm – Aquafit at the Sparwood Pool

Thursdays

• 7:00am to 8:00pm – Fitness

Centre Open at the Fernie Aquatic Centre • 7:00am to 1:00pm – Public Swim at the Fernie Aquatic Centre • 8:45 to 10:15am – Adult Shinny at the Fernie Memorial Arena • 9:30 to 10:15am – Low Impact Aquafit at the Sparwood Pool • 10:30 to 11:15am – Free Admission Public Skate at the Fernie Memorial Arena • 10:30 to noon – Toonie Swim at the Elkford Aquatic Centre • 10:30 to 1:00pm – Lane Swim at the Sparwood Pool • 10:30 to 11:15am – Gentle Fit at the Fernie Aquatic Centre • 12:00 to 1:00pm – Skate & Shoot Hockey 18+ at the Sparwood Arena • 1:00 to 2:30pm – Lanes and Leisure at the Sparwood Pool • 1:30 to 2:30pm – Water Walking at the Sparwood Pool • 3:00pm to 8:00pm – Public Swim at the Fernie Aquatic Centre • 3:45 to 4:45 pm – Swim Club at the Elkford Aquatic Centre • 5:00 to 6:00pm – Lane Swim at the Elkford Aquatic Centre • 5:30 to 6:30pm – Lane Swim at the Sparwood Pool • 6:00 to 8:00pm – Public Swim at the Elkford Aquatic Centre • 6:30 to 8:00pm – Public Swim at the Sparwood Pool • 7:00pm – Darts at the Sparwood Legion • 7:00 to 8:00pm – Public Skating at the Sparwood Arena • 7:30 to 9:00pm – Women & Men’s Night at Old School Boxing • 8:00 to 9:00pm – 14+ Swim at the Sparwood Pool • 9:30 to 11:00pm – Adult Rec Hockey 19+ at the Sparwood Arena

Fridays

the Fernie Aquatic Centre • Noon to 12:45pm – Public Skate at the Fernie Memorial Arena (No School Fridays) • 12:00 to 1:00pm – Lane Swim at the Sparwood Pool • 12:00 to 1:00pm – Skate & Shoot Hockey 18+ at the Sparwood Arena • 3:00pm to 8:00pm – Public Swim at the Fernie Aquatic Centre • 3:45 to 4:45 pm – Swim Club at the Elkford Aquatic Centre • 4:00 to 5:30pm - Free Swim at the Sparwood Pool • 5:00 to 6:00pm – Lane Swim at the Elkford Aquatic Centre • 5:30 to 6:30pm – Lane Swim at the Sparwood Pool • 6:00 to 8:00pm - $3.00 Swim at the Elkford Aquatic Centre • 6:30 to 8:00pm – Public Swim at the Sparwood Pool • 7:00pm to 8:15pm – Public Skate at the Fernie Memorial Arena • 7:00pm – Jam Night every 2nd Friday at the Sparwood Legion • 7:00pm - Jitney Darts at the Fernie Legion – everyone is welcome • 8:00 to 9:00pm – 13+ Swim at the Sparwood Pool • 8:00 to 9:00pm – Teen/Adult Swim at the Elkford Aquatic Centre

Saturdays

• Noon to 6:00pm – Public Swim at the Fernie Aquatic Centre • Noon to 6:00pm – Fitness Centre Open at the Fernie Aquatic Centre • 1:00 to 2:00pm – Lane Swim at the Sparwood Pool • 2:00 to 3:00pm – Family Swim at the Sparwood Pool • 2:00 to 3:45pm – Public Skate at the Fernie Memorial Arena • 3:00 to 5:00pm – Public Swim at the Sparwood Pool • 2:30 to 5:00pm – Public Swim at the Elkford Aquatic Centre • 4:00 to 6:00pm - Meat Draw at the Fernie & Sparwood Legion • 5:00 to 6:00pm – Lane Swim at the Sparwood & Elkford Pool • 6:00 to 8:00pm – Public Swim at the Sparwood & Elkford Pool • 6:30 to 8:00pm – Women & Men’s Night at Old School Boxing • 6:45 to 8:15pm – Public Skate at the Fernie Memorial Arena

Sundays

• Noon to 1:00pm – Lane Swim at the Sparwood Pool • Noon to 6:00pm – Fitness Centre Open at the Fernie Aquatic Centre • Noon to 6:00pm – Public Swim at the Fernie Aquatic Centre • 1:00 to 2:00pm – Family Swim at the Sparwood Pool • 1:00 to 5:00pm – Public Swim at the Elkford Aquatic Centre

• 2:00 to 4:00pm – Public Swim at the Sparwood Pool • 2:15 to 4:00pm – Public Skate at the Fernie Memorial Arena • 3:00 to 4:45pm – Public Skating at the Sparwood Arena • 4:00 to 5:00pm – Lane Swim at the Sparwood Pool • 5:00 to 6:00pm – Lane Swim at the Elkford Aquatic Centre • 7:30pm - Alcoholics Anonymous Meeting, Christ Church Anglican, 591 4th Ave. Fernie

UPCOMING EVENTS JANUARY 1

2 2 2 2 2

2 3

3 3 3 5

5 6 8

Night Skiing on the Mighty Moose at Fernie Alpine Resort 4:00 – 9:00 pm Banff Mountain Film Festival World Tour, Vogue Theatre Polar Bear Swim at the Fernie Aquatic Centre 1:00 – 3:00 pm Mark Gallup Opening Reception at the Fernie Arts Station Fernie Ghostriders vs. Creston Valley Thunder Cats 7:30 pm Fernie Arena Night Skiing on the Mighty Moose at Fernie Alpine Resort 4:00 – 9:00 pm DJ Cellie Reggae Night at the Royal Hotel 9:00 pm Night Skiing on the Mighty Moose at Fernie Alpine Resort 4:00 – 9:00 pm Griz Kidz Crafty Kids at Fernie Alpine Resort 6:30 – 8:00 pm Texas Hold’em at the Fernie Legion register 6:00 pm start time 6:30 pm Fernie Ghostriders vs. Golden Rockets 7:30 pm Fernie Arena Days for Girls Sewa-thon 1:00 – 9:00 pm Christchurch Basement 561 4th Ave Indie Film Festival presents: Force Majeure at the Vogue Theatre 7:00 pm Clean Eating Reset at College of the Rockies 6:00 pm – Call 250-423-4691 Beautea Spa Night at Infinitea 6:00 – 8:00 pm

www.thefreepress.ca

THE FREE PRESS Thursday, January 1, 2015

CONNECTION

CITY OF FERNIE BRITISH COLUMBIA

City of Fernie CONNECTION | Community Information and Opportunities | www.fernie.ca Dog Licencing – It’s the Law!

City Council Meeting Schedule January 2015 4 11 18 25

5 12 19 26

1 2 6 7 8 9 13 14 15 16 20 CITY 21 OF 22FERNIE 23 BRITISH COLUMBIA 27 28 29 30

3 10 17 24 31

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

Holiday Hours City Hall will be closed January 1 and January 2, 2015 We wish you a Safe and Happy Holiday Season!

Community Open House Development Cost Charge Bylaw No. 2079 Update The City has been working with consultants, Urban Systems Ltd., to update the Development Cost Charge bylaw. Development Cost Charges (DCCs) are fees levied by the City to help pay for the cost of expanding and upgrading the City’s roads, water systems, parks, drainage and wastewater infrastructure to keep up with demand and growth. We are hosting a Community Open House and invite the public to join us. Consultants and staff will be on hand to explain the outcomes of the update and how they might impact growth in Fernie. When:

Monday, January 5, 2015 (from 6pm – 8pm) Where: Senior Citizens Drop In Centre 562 – 3rd Avenue, Fernie, BC (Light refreshments will be provided). Please visit our website for background information on DCCs and join us for this important conversation.

The City of Fernie requires that all dogs be licenced under the Dog Licencing, Regulating and Impounding Bylaw and every dog owner to have a dog licence tag attached to their dog’s collar while in public. Dog owners may be fined for violation of these regulations. The annual fee to licence your dog for the period of January 1st to December 31st is $15.00 if your dog is spayed or neutered. The fee is $35.00 if your dog is not spayed or neutered. For more information on these regulations please visit the City’s website or contact Bylaw Services at 250.423.2244 or bylaw@fernie.ca.

Leisure Services Happenings Fernie Memorial Arena We offer skating programs for the whole family. Take part in Adult Shinny, Skate & Shoot and No School Friday skating events. Holiday Hours and Programs January 1 Public Skating 1:00pm – 2:30pm and 4:00pm – 5:30pm January 2 Public Skating 3:00pm – 4:30pm January 3 Family Shinny 10:30am – Noon & Public Skating 2:00pm – 3:45pm January 4 Family Shinny 10:30am – Noon & Public Skating 2:15 – 4:00pm (In the event of a Ghostrider home game public skate times will be cancelled. Fernie Ghostrider hockey games on January 2 & 3, 2015 start at 7:30pm). Fernie Aquatic Centre The Aquatic Centre is offering a new swim schedule and new lesson sets starting January 4th, 2015. Drop in to register at 250 Pine Avenue or please call us at 250-423-4466 for more information. Holiday Hours The Aquatic Centre will be closed on January 1, 2015. Please check the website or call the Aquatic Centre at 250.423.4466 for the complete Holiday Schedule. Polar Bear Swim Are you brave enough to join us for a refreshing dip in the pool during our Polar Bear Swim? We drop the water temperature in the pool and add some ice and snow just like the real thing! Join us Friday, January 2, 2015 from 1:00pm – 3:00pm. Winter Swim Schedule (January 4 – March 7, 2015) Public Swim

Monday to Friday – 1:00pm -3:00pm and 3:00pm – 8:00pm Saturday and Sunday – 2:00pm- 6:00pm

Water Slide

Monday to Friday – 4:00pm – 6:00pm Saturday and Sunday – 2:00pm – 6:00pm

Aqua Fit Active Fit Gentle Fit Crocodile Swim

Mon/Wed/Fri – 8:30am – 9:15am Tues/Thurs/Fri - 10:30am – 11:15am (NEW TIME!) 1st and 3rd Saturdays each month 3:00pm – 5:00pm

For information on these and other Aquatic programs and private aquatic bookings including Birthday Parties, Meeting Room rentals, and Lifeguard Training please call the Fernie Aquatic Centre at 250.423.4466. For all other facility inquiries and bookings call Leisure Services at 250.423.2245. Detailed Schedules for the Arena and Aquatic Centre are available on line at www.fernie.ca.

Holiday Garbage and Recycling Schedule The following change will apply to the residential garbage collection on New Year’s Day: Holiday Garbage Collection Schedule Regular Garbage Collection Date

Area

New Collection Date

Thursday, January 1 New Year’s Day

Area 3 Castle Mountain, Ridgemont, Ghostrider, Alpine Trail/ Parkland

Monday, December 29

There will be no change to the Recycling collection schedule for curbside pickup over the holidays. Fernie Transfer Station Hours Regular Hours (9:00am – 5:00pm Mon-Fri & 10:00am-4:00pm Sat-Sun) Holiday Schedule: Thursday, January 1 Friday, January 2

CLOSED Open Regular Hours

You can dispose of your live Christmas tree at the Yard and Garden pile at the Fernie Transfer Station, 6000 Highway 3.

Public Hearing Notice is hereby given that a Public Hearing will be held on Monday, January 12, 2015 at 7:00PM in Council Chambers at Fernie City Hall, located at 501 – 3rd Avenue, Fernie BC so that Council may hear representations from the public who deem an interest in the properties affected by the proposed amendments to Zoning Bylaw No. 1750 for: APPLICANT: LOCATION:

Stacey Goldade & Noel Van Oostenbrugge C-HWY Zoned Properties in the City of Fernie (as identified on the City of Fernie Zoning Map)

LEGAL DESCRIPTION: N/A BYLAW: Bylaw No. 2264, cited as Zoning Bylaw No. 1750, Amendment Bylaw No.172, 2014 Bylaw No. 2264 proposes to text amend Zoning Bylaw No. 1750 by adding “barber shops and beauty parlours” as a permitted use under Section 4.2.10.2, C-HWY - Highway Commercial Zone. Comments can be made in person at the Public Hearing, or in any of the following methods: BY EMAIL: IN PERSON: BY FAX: BY MAIL:

cityhall@fernie.ca City Hall 501 – 3rd Avenue (250) 423.3034 City of Fernie Planning Department PO Box 190 Fernie, BC V0B 1M0

Any submissions received after 5:00PM, Monday, January 12, 2015 will not be accepted. No representation will be received by Council after the conclusion of the Public Hearing. All submissions must include your name and street address. All written submissions are public information pursuant to the Freedom of Information and Protection of Privacy Act. For more information, please contact the Planning Department at (250) 423.6817 or via email at cityhall@fernie.ca. A copy of the proposed bylaw amendment, Zoning Bylaw No. 1750, City of Fernie Zoning Map and other relevant documents may be viewed at City Hall, 501 – 3rd Avenue, Fernie, BC during normal business hours of 8:00am to 5:00pm December 29, 2014 to January 12, 2015 (excluding weekends and statutory holidays) or online at www.fernie.ca. Please note City Hall is closed December 25 & 26, 2014 and January 1 & 2, 2015. This Notice is published in accordance with Section 892 of the Local Government Act.

www.thefreepress.ca

THE FREE PRESS Thursday, January 1, 2015

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

Notice of

Regular Council Meetings for 2015 January 5 Cancelled January 19 February 2 February 16 March 2 March 16 April 7 (Tuesday) April 20 May 4 May 19 (Tuesday) June 1 June 15 July 6 - Cancelled

Public Notice Danger – Falling Trees

On November 29, 2014 a winter storm with high winds came through the Elk Valley. The property on the west side of Highway 43, south of Sparwood Heights Drive, sustained heavy damage from the winds. Hundreds of trees were knocked down and many of the standing trees have been weakened at the root ball. Due to the danger of falling trees this area will be cordoned off and signs will be placed prohibiting entry to the area. The removal of trees will commence once a contract has been awarded. Public entry into this area is prohibited for any purpose until the clearing of trees and debris is completed and the signage restricting entry removed.

July 20 August 4 - Cancelled August 17 September 8 (Tuesday) September 21 - Cancelled September 28 October 5 October 19 November 2 November 16 December 7 December 21

Items for the agenda must be received at the Municipal Ofﬁce by noon on the Wednesday preceding the meeting. Anyone wishing to address Council must submit an “Application to Appear Before Council as a Delegate or Delegation” before this deadline. Applications are available on the District’s website, by fax or request at the front counter.

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

Committee of the Whole Meetings for 2015 January 26 February 23 March 30 April 27 May 25 June 29

July 27 - Cancelled August 31 - Cancelled September 28 - Cancelled October 26 November 30

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

Time to renew or purchase a new dog licence

The District of Sparwood’s Animal Control Bylaw requires every dog to have a current year licence by January 15th. A neutered or spayed dog tag, with vet certiﬁcate, is $10.00 or $30.00 for an unaltered dog. Why licensing your dog should be your #1 priority:

1. If your dog gets lost, even in a neighbouring community, a licence is the fastest way to reunite you with your dog. Even if your dog is microchipped, a licence tag is immediately visible and doesn’t require a scanning device. Dogs are often returned by contacting the dog’s owner at their address on ﬁle with the District. 2. Your dogs licence shows that you are a responsible dog owner. When you walk your dog people will notice the licence on your dog’s collar and know that you really care about your dog’s welfare. 3. Licensing lets others know that your dog is not a stray. Often found dogs are kept by the people who ﬁnd them, who assume an unlicensed dog is a stray.

4. It’s the law! Failure to licence your dog by the 15th of January may result in tickets and impound fees.

For more information, or to renew or purchase a dog licence please contact the District Ofﬁce at 250.425.6271 or at 136 Spruce Avenue.

Are You Worried About Radon In Your House?

Then mark January 14, 2015 on your calendar. Representatives from Health Canada are coming to our region to present information about the health risk of radon exposure, how to test for radon in your home, and how to mitigate when necessary. The Building Inspector from the District of Sparwood as well as a representative from the Canadian Cancer Agency will also be present to answer questions and provide a limited number of radon test kits at a reduced price. Event details: 7:00 p.m. January 14, 2015 at the Senior’s Drop-in Centre, 101 4th Avenue, Sparwood.

Photo by: Marija Goetting

Discarding Christmas Trees

You may drop off your old Christmas trees behind the No. 1 Fire Hall 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, 2015. Please ensure that you have removed the tinsel before discarding tree. For further information, please contact the Public Works Department at 425-7760.

Business Licences

All people carrying on a business within the municipality require a business licence. This includes all home occupations, catalogue sales, commercial, and out of town businesses. This is a reminder to all local business owners that your 2015 Business Licences are now due.

If you have not purchased your current licence please come into our ofﬁce and bring your account up to date. New businesses can apply in person at 136 Spruce Avenue or on-line at www.Sparwood.ca under application forms.

2015 Utilities Pay Early and Save!

Discounts are available for all residential and commercial accounts.

Option 1: 10% Discount - Pay by January 31, 2015

10% discount is available for the whole amount, or any portion thereof, if paid by January 31, 2015. Single Family Residence 2015 Water/Sewer/Garbage IF PAID BY JANUARY 31, 2015

$848.16 $763.34

Save $84.82

$814.56 $733.10

Save $81.46

Residences receiving Garbage services only 2015 Garbage $362.76 IF PAID BY JANUARY 31, 2015 $326.48

Save $36.28

Strata Unit 2015 Water/Sewer/Garbage IF PAID BY JANUARY 31, 2015

Residences receiving Water and Garbage Services only 2015 Water/Garbage $573.00 IF PAID BY JANUARY 31, 2015 $515.70 Save $57.30

Discounts apply only if prior year (2014) utilities have been paid in full. Payment will be applied ﬁrst to any outstanding prior year utilities transferred to tax accounts.

Option 2: 5% Discount - Pay Utilities Quarterly The November 30 5% discount has been replaced with a quarterly 5% discount for utilities paid on or before the 15th of the month that the quarterly invoice is due. Therefore, each quarter’s utilities must be paid by March 15 (1st quarter), June 15 (2nd quarter), September 15 (3rd quarter) and December 15 (4th quarter) to be eligible for the 5% discount.

THE FREE PRESS Thursday, January 1, 2015

May 2014

West Fernie to be incorporated into the City of Fernie By Nicole Obre Free Press Staff

ernie council has initiated a boundary extension process that will incorporate West Fernie into the city if they receive the consent of West Fernie property owners. The city is working with the Regional District of East Kootenay (RDEK) on a possible five year term transition to bring properties in the extension area up to the full municipal tax rate. “There’s a lot more to do and there’s things that need to happen, both with respect to this and beyond it, but the fact that we’re having this discussion and making this resolution right now has a very significant place in Fernie’s history,” commented Councillor Randal Macnair. “If we, and [Area A] Director Sosnowski, can bring this forward with the residents of West Fernie, because certainly, we’re one community, and this reflects that, we’re all stronger as a result.” Following last year's Union of BC Municipalities' conference, several discussions took place between city of Fernie staff, RDEK staff, and members of the Minister's staff regarding the potential boundary extension. On December 9, 2013, a letter was sent by Lee-Ann Crane, Chief Administrative Officer with the RDEK, to Marijke Edmondson, director of local government structure with the Ministry of Community, Sport, and Cultural Development, asking the Ministry to provide a detailed offer of restructure assistance to help Fernie council move forward with a decision to incorporate West Fernie. On March 6, 2014, Fernie Mayor Mary Giuliano and Area A Director Mike Sosnowski received a response from Minister Coralee Oakes. The letter stated it was the Minister's understanding that the restructuring will ultimately bring the entire area of West Fernie into the city, the infrastructure upgrades will precede boundary change, and the implementation will take place in phases over a number of years. The letter went on to specify that the RDEK will establish a water and sewer service area in West Fernie by petition, which will replace the West Fernie Waterworks District. The RDEK

will undertake borrowing to upgrade the infrastructure, and only once the upgrades are complete will the area be incorporated into the city. The Minister made an offer for restructure assistance that includes: a Municipal Restructure Assistance (per capita) Grant of $347,500; a Restructure Implementation Grant to convert the West Fernie Waterworks District of $20,000; a Restructure Implementation Grant to update land use bylaws of $50,000; and a Provincial Rural Property Tax Transfer of $36,745. Bringing West Fernie residents into the city will likely raise the population above 5,000, which will require Fernie to pay for policing costs. With the current offer, the Ministry of Justice has agreed if the population of the city is under 5,000 in the 2016 census, the population will not be reevaluated again until the 2021 census, regardless of the boundary changes that would be made after census day in May 2016. The letter also indicates the Ministry of Transportation and Infrastructure generally continue to maintain local roads through its existing maintenance contract until the end of the five year transition period or until the maintenance contract ends. Moving forward, the RDEK will inform West Fernie property owners of the city's intention to take them into the city and what the impact will be. If consent from the area residents is received, the city will develop a boundary extension proposal and submit it to the Ministry for consideration. At this point, the city's electorate would be informed of the intention and impacts of incorporating West Fernie and asked for approval. If the city's electorate reject the proposal, the boundary extension would not continue. However, if the electorate approves the proposal, the boundary extension will be brought forward for cabinet's consideration. More information on the West Fernie boundary extension can be found in the regular council meeting agenda for May 12, viewable on the city of Fernie website at www.fernie.ca.

WhatsOn What’s on in the Elk Valley this week.

you by brought to e, Fernie BC

h Av 5500 1622 – 7t 250-423-

.com rnfernie stweste www.be E NTAIN LODG

FERNIE MOU

CAN’T MISS Banff Mountain Film Fest World Tour

Tickets are on sale now! This will be a fundraiser for ‘Fernie Trails Alliance’! Tickets are $20.00 and can be purchased at ‘The Guides Hut’ and the theatre for a 6pm (all ages show) and 9pm (adults only show) on January 2! Don’t miss out, get your tickets now!

Shred Kelly

Jan.

has a new CD coming out January 2015. Check out their latest video release, “Family Oh Family”. Be sure to get tickets to see Shred Kelly when they are in Fernie on January 31 at the Community Centre (CD release) We promise it will be a “foot stompin’” good time!

Submit your posters and approximately 50 words of text describing your event to customerservice@thefreepress.ca Only two events will be sponsored, so first come first serve.

Dave’s Faves

JUNE 2014

Police ask for the public’s help in finding attempted robbery suspect

n Elkford East Kootenay Community Credit Union (EKC) employee was taken to hospital and treated for a stab wound after an attempted robbery on Saturday morning. The victim was stabbed in the leg during the incident and has since been treated and released from the hospital, RCMP Sergeant Will Thien said in a press release. Police say the suspect had already fled the scene when Elk Valley RCMP responded to the incident at 9 a.m. on Saturday. “While the employee (victim) was opening up for business for the day, a male suspect forced his way into the credit union,” Thien said. After being told by the EKC employee that he could not

access any money, the suspect left the credit union branch. “No money was taken,” Thien said. The suspect also had bear spray but it was not used during the scuffle, EKC Marketing Consultant Jane Davies said in a press release on Tuesday. The Elk Valley Critical Response Team has since been to the site of the incident. Counseling services are being provided to EKC employees, Davies said. The branch reopened Wednesday, June 4. The suspect is described as a 5'10” male, 40 to 50-yearsold, weighing between 160 and 170 lbs. The male was wearing rounded goggles with dark mirrored lenses, a black toque, black gloves, medium colored jeans, black footwear and a red windbreaker jacket with white or beige piping. Anyone with information is asked to call the Elk Valley RCMP at 250-425-6233 or Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477).

SPARWOOD PUBLIC LIBRARY

592 - 3rd Ave. 250-423-4458

816 Michel Rd 250-865-2912

110 Pine Ave. 250-425-2299

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

Mon. Closed Tues.-Wed. 10am-5pm

Mon. Closed Tues. 10am-8pm Wed. 10am-5pm Thurs. 10am-8pm Fri.-Sat. 10am-5pm Sun. 12-4 pm

Thurs.-Fri. 11am-6pm Sat. 12-5pm Sun. Closed

Space donated by The Free Press

i f in te

-B

ELKFORD PUBLIC LIBRARY

Kitchen always open

FERNIE PUBLIC LIBRARY

By Katelyn Dingman Free Press Staff

ELK VALLEY Libraries

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ti q u e

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This week’s recommended drink is Revelstoke BC’s Mt. Begbie Tall Timber Ale. Make it your New Year’s resolution to enjoy more BC brewed craft beer.

Drink recommendations are from Dave Hamilton, Manager of Spirits Cold Beer & Wine Shop at the Park Place Lodge

THE FREE PRESS Thursday, January 1, 2015

www.thefreepress.ca

The Free Press DrivewayCanada.ca |

drivewayBC.ca

Welcome to the driver’s seat

Hot Laps in the Subaru WRX STI with retired WRC Driver Tommi Mäkinen.

Visit the gallery at DrivewayCanada.ca

2014 car year in review It’s hard to believe that 2014 is over. Subaru WRX STI: Where did it go? At a time when we tend MSRP $37,995-$44,995 to reflect on what we’ve done, what we The all-new 2015 Subaru WRX STI is can do better and what was awesome, an incredible car within its own right. that brings me to my personal Car Year It has a cult following and has the in Review. street cred to back it up. And just when It takes a special vehicle or experience you think you’re getting the hang of by Alexandra Straub to stick in my memory. Not to say that putting it around the Buttonwillow short-term memory loss is a problem but Raceway in California, you let Tommi with constant streams of information bombarding Mäkinen take you for a spin. Gosh, it’s like he could my brain, it’s not hard to forget where I was and drive ten times faster, smoother and more confidently what I was testing a week ago! in his sleep. Heck, he had one arm on the windowsill Though this is a review of wheels past, because we when he wasn’t shifting or going into a tight corner. often test vehicles well ahead of their full production Moral of the story: the car makes you feel like a hero this also points to what people will be driving in even if you can’t drive like Tommi. And what a cool 2015. experience. Let’s start small because the micro cars might be Dodge Challenger SRT Hellcat: miniscule in price, but aren’t about to disappoint. MSRP $63,495 (but the new 2015 Challenger SXT Nissan Micra: MSRP Range, $9,998-$15,748 starts at an MSRP of $28,495) For under $10K, this pint-sized vehicle can be yours. The name says it all. Put “Hell” in something and But just because it’s inexpensive doesn’t mean it’s you’re bound to have a helluva good time, right? cheap. And it’s a blast to drive. Sure, 109 horsepower Especially when you have 707 horsepower at your won’t get you where you need to go in a flash, but disposal. But to say I wasn’t apprehensive to take this that’s not the point of this car. Besides, for basic beast on the track at Portland International Raceway transportation, it has the goods. would be a lie. And the reason is, American muscle cars haven’t always been the pinnacle of exceptional Ford Fiesta 1.0L, $15,999 + $1,500 for the 1.0L option; for an MSRP of $17,499 handling dynamics. Sure, it has a lot of horses, but will it get me through the corner with minimal body roll? Ford’s smallest engine available here in Canada sure Or will the steering have enough feel that I won’t be packs a lot of punch. And considering it only weighs constantly inputting actions? 98 kg when assembled, this 1.0L, 3-cylinder powerIn this case? Hell(cat) yes. I was blown away as to plant is pretty impressive. If you opt for this bitehow well this car drove, not just on the track, but on sized engine, you’ll be getting 123 horsepower and the street, too. Disclaimer: if you need to get anywhere 125 lb-ft of torque (148 lb-ft with the overboost). The quickly, this isn’t the car for you. People will talk your Fiesta was designed and engineered in Europe so it ear off about it if you give them an opportunity. isn’t bad to look at either.

Mercedes-Benz GLA 250 4MATIC: MSRP $37,200 (AMG version is $50,500) Another vehicle that shone brightly is Mercedes-Benz’s GLA. The luxury compact crossover starts at under $40K but does so many things well. It has a hatchback, great styling and the fuel economy is quite good, too. I wouldn’t even need the AMG version to keep me happy. It’s just a stellar vehicle. MINI Cooper S: MSRP starts at $25,490 Perhaps the biggest disappointment this year comes in the shape of the MINI Cooper S. I’ve loved these cars for so long, but perhaps electronics have ruined it for me. Yes, it’s much more competent and has some great features, but I miss the days of the supercharged version. Don’t get me wrong, it’s still a super fun car to drive, but the downshift rev matching in the Cooper S with the manual transmission was not amazing. It was harsh and jerky. I also feel it lost a little bit of personality along its way to adulthood. I’ll forever love them, quirks and all. Honda Fit: MSRP range $14,495-$21,295 The Fit is on my list because I think it is just such a fabulous little car. The Magic Seats really are magic, but the new touchscreen is a huge deterrent. I strongly dislike it. I like buttons. I don’t mind if there are a few to complement the screen but I feel it takes my eyes off the road for too long, even if I’m familiar with the system. Volvo V60 T6: MSRP $51,200-$66,895 Long live the Swedish wagons. They can do very little wrong in my books. They’re just fantastic. alexandra.straub@drivewaybc.ca

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

Question of the Week The price of gas has dropped significantly in recent weeks. If you plan to buy a car this year will lower prices at the pump encourage you to buy a larger vehicle? Go to DrivewayCanada.ca to submit your answer. QUESTION

OF THE WEEK!

Safety Tip: January is one of the worst months for crashes in B.C. with approximately 23,200 on average. In poor conditions, slow down, increase your following distance and give yourself plenty of time to get to your destination.

www.thefreepress.ca

THE FREE PRESS Thursday, January 1, 2015

JUly 2014

New residential community set to launch

this incredible piece of land.“ The project did however raise concern over the relocation of hydro lines. arlier this month, Parastone — a locally Those concerns were addressed during an owned construction and development information session at the Seniors’ Drop In company — announced they would be Centre on July 2. developing a subThe previous developer stantial portion of requested that BC Hydro and the the 660 acre par“Montane references the City of Fernie relocate the hydro cel of land one lines along Coal Creek Rd. defining experiences and kilometer from When Parastone took over the features of mountain living Fernie’s historic development, they made an agreeand perfectly symbolizes our downtown. ment with BC Hydro that any vision for this incredible piece Naming the vegetation not interfering with the of land.” residential comnewly located power lines would munity Montane, be left in its natural state. Simon Howse the project, once “We understand we are already General Manager of Parastone completed, will cutting through a swathe of forest be Fernie’s larand we didn’t want to compromgest property ise the natural beauty of the area,” development to date. Howse said in a media statement. “That beauty is “We are very excited about this acquisition and what is so alluring about this place.” to unveil the community’s new name,” general Parastone expects the relocated power lines to manager of Parastone Simon Howse said in a be completed by August. press release on July 11. “Montane references the For more information on the development, visit defining experiences and features of mountain www.montanefernie.ca. living and perfectly symbolizes our vision for

By Katelyn Dingman Free Press Staff

Locally owned construction and development company Parastone announced they would be developing over 600 acres of land near Fernie’s historic downtown. From The Free Press files.

AUGUST 2014

Local brings home gold from special olympics By Katelyn Dingman Free Press Staff

n Elk Valley local brought home Olympic gold last month after dominating in her 5-pin bowling category at the Vancouver Special Olympics. Kathy Sheppard, 32, was the first athlete from the Elk Valley’s Special Olympics BC Society to compete in nationals in over 17 years, Community Coordinator Georgina McIntosh said. And she was the first to win. “It was just so exciting,” she said. “I’m sure she could have heard me (yelling) from Vancouver. I wish actually I

could have got down there fast enough to see.” In just four days, Sheppard bowled a total of nine games at the Special Olympics British Columbia (SOBC) Summer Games. “It was tiring after a while,” Sheppard said. “It was quite different.” But Sheppard didn’t let the exhaustion get to her, as her and her teammates, coined the Port Alberni Alley Brats, won gold medals. “We were so excited,” she said. “My team was so excited.” Sheppard was picked from a small group of individuals based on her high provincial bowling scores. This year she bowled a 203 while practicing for the nationals, a score that earned Janet Laing the Highest Pins Over Average title in the 2013 SOBC Summer Games. And McIntosh said Sheppard will have to continue training just as hard if she makes it to Worlds next year. “The next few months there is going to be a lot of

practice,” McIntosh said. Sheppard may be selected to compete in the Special Olympics World Games in Los Angeles. The selection process is based on a combination of her teams overall average and Sheppards’ individual scores, but McIntosh said she will likely not know Sheppard’s standing until February of next year. If selected, Sheppard will be one of 7,000 athletes from 177 nations around the world to compete in the games. The World Games run from July 25 to August 2, 2015.

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Send us your Kathy Sheppard shows off her Olympic gold medal. Photo by K. Dingman

This week’s feature:

THE YEAR IN REVIEW…

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THE FREE PRESS Thursday, January 1, 2015

September 2014

B.C. teachers cut a deal, school reopens By Sarah Kucharski Free Press Staff

s the official days of summer die out, school re-opened on Monday to kick off the fall season after B.C. teachers and the government finally cut a deal to end the strike. Details of the deal that ended a five week lockout for B.C. teachers reveals the BCTF and provincial government met somewhere in the middle on their demands. Last Thursday, 86 per cent of teachers said ‘yes’ to accepting the proposed deal. “There will be more classroom and specialist teachers in schools to help our students. Our teachers teaching on call will

get fair pay for a day’s work, and all our members will get a salary increase,” said the B.C. Teacher’s Federation president Jim Iker. When bargaining initially began last spring, both sides had drawn their lines firmly on the chalkboard. The BC Liberals would not stray from the basic contract formula that had been delivered and accepted by almost half of the province’s public sector workers. Equally as unyielding, B.C. teachers were clear they would not accept a deal that denied changes to class size and composition, as they had previously won this right twice in Supreme Court. In the end, after subjecting parents and students to a five week, full-scale school

lockout, the two sides came together at last the government agreed to drop the controversial E80 clause, which teachers to put an end to the strike. On the government’s part, $100 million said have nullified those victories. Teachers ended up accepting the basic was added to its learning improvement fund, totaling $400 million spread out salary increases, subject to the other public sector workers. over five years. They will also That money will go “There will be more classroom and receive an $11.9 towards hiring as specialist teachers..” million boost in many as 850 new extended health teachers each year. Jim Iker and dental To soften the B.C. Teacher’s Federation President benefits and blow of five an increase in weeks with no paycheques, teachers accepted a payout of on-call rates. This new contract will expire in 2019, at $105 million in grievances, distributed by which point we will see if any feelings of the union as a signing bonus. Lastly, to protect the teacher’s court wins distrust amongst the two factions remain. in the case of class size and composition,

PROFESSIONAL DIRECTORY Call 250-423-4666 or email customerservice@thefreepress.ca

Featured This Week

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THE FREE PRESS Thursday, January 1, 2015

In Memoriam 2014 Remembering loved ones we’ve lost..

Bennett Pohonda, Joan Marie

Neidig, Allen

January 15

January 18

Dayman, Mary Jean

Crabb, John Johnson “Jack”

February 7

February 8

Janco, Mary

O’Sullivan, Jason Andrew

Koop, John Herbert

Scott, Krystyna

Miles, Stuart Harry “Crusher”

Gregg, Richard “Dick”

January 30

February 4

Lilly, Gena

January 27

Pinotti, (Mary) Pauline “Granny”

MacArthur, Brandon Lee

Friesen, Edgar William February 17

February 22

February 23

Churchill, Arnold

February 24

Mitchell, Marie Mitze February 24

Bailey, Keith

February 26

Crewe, George

March 6

Ebert, Florence May

Roo Sarah Elaine

Sarabun, Grace Evelyn

Baratelli, Ida

Bernardo, Alfio “Bonanza” March 24

Kubos, Bessie

March 24

Manning Ann

Stark Shirley “Marlene”

Gordon, Marguerite Elizabeth

Vicic, Diana Louise

Hartley, John Henry

Perry, Crystal “Chris”

February 23

March 6

March 28

March 16

April 2

February 8

March 17

April 3

February 13

March 24

April 12

April 16

www.thefreepress.ca

THE FREE PRESS Thursday, January 1, 2015

In Memoriam 2014 Remembering loved ones we’ve lost..

Aasen, Albertine Theresa Marie

Camilli, Linda

Matthews, Joyce

Cooke, Randal Michael

Warner, James Calvin

Rotella, Pietro “Pete”

Turner, John “J.T.”

Halko, Thomas Michael

Porco, Tilio

Walker, John

Cornish, Ronald

July 2

July 7

Lant, Angelina

April 24

June 1

May 7

May 15

May 17

May 26

May 27

June 3

June 11

Klein, Ivan John

McLaren, Rosemary

McIntyre, Elixena Marie

Jaegli, Burton George “Burt”

Mills, Ann Christine

Nelson, Betty

Stribbell, Dennis

Strandquist, Lori-Anne

Faulkner, Adam “AJ”

Montemurro, Loretta Anita

Williams, Wilfred Robert “Wilf”

August 3

Letasy, Agatha “Lena”

August 10

August 14

McKerracher, Randy Alexander

Kowalyshyn, Orest Walter

Herrick, Elizabeth Carmell

Peters, Elizabeth

Bayer, Kurt Gunther

Moosman, Else Gurina

July 17

July 27

August 16

July 17

August 1

August 26

July 18

August 3

August 31

July 23

September 14

July 26

September 18

July 12

July 27

September 20

www.thefreepress.ca

THE FREE PRESS Thursday, January 1, 2015

In Memoriam 2014 Remembering loved ones we’ve lost..

Williams, Kim Marie

Bezak, Frances Emily Ann

Thomson, John Edward

Miller, Mervin Richard

Ashmore, Wilfred Arthur

Danylak, Lucy

McMahon, Adeline

Tipton, William Robert “Bill”

Simpkin, Donald James

Spreadbury, Shirley Evelyn

Gold, Pauline Beresford

Gorrie, George Alexander

Allan, Mable Nancy

Trautman, Marie Elizabeth

Basarab, Ronald

Domin, Ella May

Anderson, Irene Bruce “Rene”

Altomare, Armida Maria

September 24

October 8

October 30

Doubinin, Gail Marie

November 20

Quenneville, Anne December 9

September 25

October 8

September 25

October 14

September 26

October 14

September 30

October 27

October 5

October 27

October 30

November 1

November 12

November 14

November 17

Beech, Edgar Christian

Dodgson, Helen

Nelson, Arnold

Dunn, Karle Bruce

Leneveu, Sharon Lucille

December 1

December 2

Trautman, Howard Joseph

Stefano, Annie

November 26

November 28

Kibala, Derna Luigia “Lucy”

Beranek, Laddie Louis

Smith, Margaret Elsie

December 10

December 15

December 18

December 21

December 28

www.thefreepress.ca

THE FREE PRESS Thursday, January 1, 2015

Your Best Choice for Great Hong Kong Style Cuisine!

Brought to you by Fernie’s premiere Chinese restaurant

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YOUR HOROSCOPE for the week of January 4 to 10, 2015

THE LUCKIEST SIGNS THIS WEEK: SCORPIO, SAGITTARIUS, AND CAPRICORN

ARIES (March 21 - April 19)

Boxing Day sales continue, and if you work with the public, this exceptional consumer traffic brings you many benefits, including better pay.

TAURUS (April 20 - May 20)

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BRAIN GAMES ACROSS

CROSSWORDS

The full moon inspires you to say some beautiful things. Your beloved cherishes everything you say. There is lots of fun to be had with the family and your children make you smile.

GEMINI (May 21 - June 21)

Lottery tickets are often received as gifts. If this is the case with you, you should check them; you may win the means to invite your family on a sunny beach vacation.

CANCER (June 22 - July 22)

You’re ready to set your New Year’s resolutions into action. You feel a great need to be active. You unearth an amazing bargain, especially if it’s a luxury item you’re looking for.

LEO (July 23 - August 22)

At the beginning of this New Year, you decide to undertake some major projects. You demonstrate initiative, both professionally and personally.

1. Hole punchers 5. “You ____ My Lucky Star” 8. Spat PUZZLE NO. 742 12. Hen’s home 13. Maiden 14. Bloodhound’s trail 15. Nero’s garment 16. Permanently 18. Deep, violet blue 20. Said yes to 21. Dried plum 24. Snatches 26. Dinghy paddle 27. At what time? 29. Clarinet’s kin 33. Elaborate 35. Fearful person 37. Minus 38. Stair part 40. Scrap 41. Fur 43. Walk leisurely 45. Horse’s relative 48. Fasten 50. Army prison 52. Wild try 56. Adventurer Marco ____

57. Golf gadget 58. Sensitive 59. Small mark 60. Misstep 61. Oxen harness

DOWN 1. Play a part 2. Flirt with 3. Jot down 4. Barcelona’s nation 5. Ancient 6. Steep-sided valley 7. Refinement 8. Cruise of “Top Gun” 9. Adored one 10. Golf cry 11. Stew 17. Filch 19. Politician Gingrich

21. Kitty 22. Unlikely 23. Footed vases 25. Female pig 28. Pause 30. Fishhook point 31. Uttered 32. On ____ (tense) 34. Volcanic residue 36. October stone 39. Dealer 42. Implore 44. Sloppy 45. Certain vipers 46. Whoa! 47. Song for one 49. Look intently 51. Barracks item 53. As well 54. Biblical vessel 55. Stinging insect

ANSWER/LAST WEEK - PUZZLE NO. 741

VIRGO (August 23 - September 22)

If you’re single, your charm will earn you lots of attention when you’re out and about. You keep busy because as far as you’re concerned, the celebrations aren’t over yet.

LIBRA (September 23 - October 22)

The holiday season has transformed you into someone who is happy to focus on others; just make sure your family doesn’t take advantage of your good will.

SCORPIO (October 23 - November 21)

You’re given the opportunity to follow your inspiration in developing future projects. The full moon appears to illuminate the path you need to follow to find happiness.

SAGITTARIUS (November 22 - December 21)

Your presence is required at various events. A romantic getaway may start badly, but harmony is restored before the end of the week.

CAPRICORN (December 22 - January 19)

You’re the best person to resolve family disputes. It’s easy for you to see the compromises than can help your loved ones find a more harmonious way to relate.

AQUARIUS (January 20 - February 18)

The return to work is quite a shock (in a good way). Your talents and the quality of your products are the foundation of this success. The full moon broadens your client base.

PISCES (February 19 - March 20)

You’re still in a partying mood when you go back to the office, and you find it hard to settle back in to the routine. But you do remember that sometimes, it’s important to have fun while working.

PUZZLE NO. 478

HOW TO PLAY : Fill in the grid so that every row, every column, and every 3x3 box contains the numbers 1 through 9 only once.

Answers:

Each 3x3 box is outlined with a darker line. You already have a few numbers to get you started. Remember: You must not repeat the numbers 1 through 9 in the same line, column, or 3x3 box.

FOR ADVERTISING CONTACT SARA MOULTON advertising@thefreepress.ca 250-423-4666

THE FREE PRESS Thursday, January 1, 2015

OCTOBER 2014

Cemetery Committee discusses monument to honour Fernie’s lost souls

The Cemetery Committee plans to place a monument, honouring the over 300 lost souls outside of the fenced area of the Monroe Cemetery. Photo by K. Dingman By Katelyn Dingman Free Press Staff

espite the ground penetrating radar results still being unavailable to the city, plans to install a monument recognizing the lost souls scattered through Fernie’s gravesites are underway. During the October 9 Cemetery Committee meeting, the committee pushed forward in their discussion of the monument that, as of this point, is set to be placed outside of the fenced area of the Monroe Cemetery. The Cemetery Committee also discussed placing the names of the over 300 lost souls on the dedication monument. “I think that we should put as many of the names as we have and recognize the course of events that led to the

monument,” Coun. Randall Macnair said adding, “Those people should have a place in history.” However, John Gawryluk, funeral director of Cherished Memories and an active member of the Cemetery Committee, said that before they can move forward with erecting the monument, they need to verify their years of research with city records. Gawryluk noted that as time passes they will likely find additional names of people buried in Fernie and recommended purchasing a stone that allows for names to be added and removed, as documentation gets updated. “Things do happen in history,” he noted. “As time goes on we will find documentation.” But the Director of Leisure Services,

Cameron Mertz, questioned moving basement of Fernie City Hall. “I think all of this is a misunderstanding,” forward with placing names on a monument without proper documentation. Haarstad noted, adding that records prior Giuliano further questioned the to 1948 were turned over to the City of availability of cemetery records stating Fernie and are readily available in the that she was unaware of council having basement of the city hall building. Concerns over funding were also brought access to any cemetery records. Mertz added, “Are there examples where up during the meeting, but Haarstad noted we could erect a monument where we that if the area is deemed a historical site, could pay tribute to our purpose without there are grants they can ask for in order to cover funding before relying on city having names on it?” But several committee members felt that money. “I don’t think you need to worry that we the names were vital to the monument. Both Macnair and Gawryluk, expressed will be spending excess dollars,” Giuliano the need for names, with Gawryluk going assured the public, noting that they will as far as saying the monument should not work diligently to ensure the cost of the even be erected if they are not going to monument does not exceed $30,000. Another issue that was brought forward recognize the names of those misplaced was the design of and the the monument. h i s t o r y “I think that we should put as Gawryluk, who that led to many of the names as we have and has an extremely individuals recognize the course of events that vested interest in b e i n g the design and misplaced. led to the monument. Those people installation of After years should have a place in history.” the monument, of researching was under the Fernie’s lost Randall MacNair impression that souls, several City of Fernie Councillor he would be able committee to bring forward members felt his own designs. Gawryluk This however, was deemed a conflict of and Corlyn Haarstad’s findings are enough to move forward with the erection interest, as Gawryluk is a member of the city run organization. of the monument. In response to this, Gawryluk offered “We have many of the pieces of information to move forward,” Macnair to fund the entirety of the project in order said. “If we didn’t have a strong idea of to avoid said conflict, and a motion was who was out there, I’d be more inclined to put forward to accept a written funding go the route Mr. Mertz is suggesting [but] proposal and review Gawryluk’s designs during the next Cemetery Committee we have a solid foundation.” In terms of the lost records, both meeting to be held on November 6 at 4 Gawryluk and Haarstad assured Giuliano p.m. that the cemetery records are in the

Grizzly bear shot unexpectedly near Flathead River By Katelyn Dingman Free Press Staff

his spring, an over three decade old grizzly bear named Aggie was shot unexpectedly near the Flathead

River. Wildlife Research Ecologist Bruce McLellan had been tracking Aggie since 1984, when he first collared her. But this spring, McLellan found her collar tied to a water bottle and thrown over the flat head bridge.

“Someone must have shot her,” he said. “It’s sad when they get that close to dying of old age.” McLellan has been putting radio collars on bears in the Flathead River Valley since the 1970s. He said he began monitoring the bear population as a way of examining and managing the major limiting factors on bear’s habitat, such as oil and gas exploration and salvage logging. The ecologist however, admits that other human interferences contribute to the

decline in bear populations. In fact, since beginning his research, approximately 34 bears with active bear collars have been killed, mostly by people. “You sort of get hardened to it,” McLellan said. “It’s really sad the number that have been shot that didn’t have to be. A lot of people think they’re threatened when they’re really not.” He went on to say, “There’s a lot of things hunters can improve. You don’t have to shoot [the bears] usually.”

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McLellan suggests carrying bear spray and making sure campsites are clean in order to reduce wildlife conflict. Simple messages like these, McLellan said, can help prevent incidents like the shooting of Aggie. Conservation Officer for the East Kootenay Zone, Joe Garay is asking for the public’s help in finding the individual responsible for shooting Aggie. Anyone with information is advised to call the RAPP line at 1-877-952-7277.

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November 2014

Preliminary Elk Valley municipal election results Several new faces join the District of Elkford and the City of Fernie council

By Sarah Kucharski Free Press Staff

reliminary election results are in across the Elk Valley with new faces as well as incumbents elected into their respective seats. In Fernie, Mayor Mary Giuliano won by acclamation and former councillor Willard Ripley lost his seat. The newly elected Fernie council stands as Jon Levesque, Dan McSkimming, Ange Qualizza, Dennis Schafer, Joe Warshawsky and Phil Iddon who came out on top with the most votes once again.

In Elkford, Mayor Dean McKerracher was re-elected by a landslide over David Jones. Kris Wilde was the only candidate edged out for a council position. Elkford will be welcoming back all five councillors who opted to run this year which included Ken Wildeman who claimed the most voted spot, Steve Fairbairn, Mandy McGregor, Joe Zarowny and Craig Robinson. Denise Bertrand will be the newest face on Elkford council. With 13 candidates running for Sparwood, the possibility of a whole

new council nearly came to fruition but Coun. Margaret McKie hung on to her spot. Joining her will be former mayor Lois Halko, leaving the pair as the only remnants of Sparwood’s former council. Newcomers Jenna Jensen, John Baher and former-alderman for the district Joe Jarina taking the top spots in the councillor’s race. Brad Bowen finishes off this term’s council of six. Two former councillors Hungry Baytaluke and Joanne Wilton as well as acclaimed School Trustee Electoral Area 2 Bev Bellina fell short of the mayoral spot

which went to Cal McDougall. While Mike Sosnowski won by acclamation, the Electoral Area A Director candidates, Stan Doehle and Morgan Dilts were paired up in the race for Area B. Voting was fairly close, but Doehle ultimately won the director’s seat. School trustees for Electoral Areas 1-3 who won by acclamation were Frank Lento, Bellina and Curtis Helgesen. In Area 4, Jacqueline Blumhagen defeated Jeannette Selwood, winning a seat. Numbers are not official and the final tallies will be released Tuesday.

Hunter recovers after grizzly bear attack By Katelyn Dingman Free Press Staff

unter Wilf Lloyd is continuing to recover after a grizzly bear attack near Fernie left him on the brink of death. The Cranbrook local and his son-inlaw Skeet Podrasky were hunting elk in the Morrissey area last month when a grizzly came out of the woods and attacked Lloyd. “I knelt down to pick up the horns [of a white tail deer] and I heard a noise below me and there was a thud,” Lloyd said, adding that the next thing he saw was a bear running at him full tilt. “His eyes [were] locked on mine. I went to stand up and I yelled at Skeet ‘bear’ and [the bear] hit me in the chest and rolled me over.” The 56-year-old taxidermist said the bear was going for his throat, so he forced his arm and hand into the bear’s

mouth. defend himself from the bear. In an attempt to protect his father-in“There’s just so much adrenaline and law, Podrasky shot at the bear, but rather you’re trying to stay alive and there’s than running back into the wilderness, so many different factors that you don’t the bear stopped for a few seconds and really think of the pain,” Lloyd said then continued to of his gunshot attack Lloyd. wound. “It’s “It’s hard to just a heat of “It’s hard to explain just the explain just the fear the moment fear that comes over you that comes over [thing] and it and you think that this is it. you, and you think happened and There’s so much adrenaline that this is it,” Lloyd we’ve moved said of the traumatic past that.” and you’re trying to stay alive experience. He went on and there’s so many different After several to say, “He factors that you don’t really shots, the men [Podrasky] sees think of the pain.” were able to escape the great things from the bear that he’s done Wilf Lloyd encounter, but because he Local Hunter they didn’t escape saved my life.” unharmed. During Since the the encounter, incident, Lloyd Podrasky inadvertently shot Lloyd in has undergone five surgeries and now the knee as he was lifting his knee up to has two metal rods in his leg that are

being stabilized by a cement gel. Despite not having a left knee cap, Lloyd is thankful to have escaped with his life. “I’m alive and it’s all good,” he said. Lloyd has not only Podrasky to thank for his life, but Podrasky’s wife, Fernie search-and-rescue and the paramedics who kept him alive after the incident. “They were just so professional and all a part of saving me,” Lloyd said. “It’s truly amazing.” In spite of losing his short-term mobility, which Lloyd hopes will be restored with a prosthetic knee, the 56-year-old said he is thankful for every moment since. “Once you’ve had your life flash in front of you, things mean a lot more and you respect things a lot more for sure,” he noted. Lloyd said he still plans to continue hunting. “It’s something that’s in my blood. It’s a passion that I don’t think I’ll ever lose.”

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. 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.

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If tears could build a stairway, And memories were a lane, I would walk right up to heaven, To bring you home again.

Ella Domin’s family wishes to thank Family & Friends for your unending support before, during and after Mom’s recent illness and passing. We also thank; Rocky Mountain Village caregivers, wait & cleaning staff; Home Nursing; Dr. Lisa Tessler; ER doctors & nurses; Ambulance crews; Lee & staff at IGS; and Cherished Memories for your exemplary care of our Mother/Grandmother. Thank you so much We are indebted to you always Rodney & Deborah Domin, Wendy Johnson, Marie Worthington and Joanna & Walter Fantuz & Families

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to join our team at a busy ophthalmology and retinal subspecialty practice in Vernon. We strive to provide high quality patient care in a friendly and team-oriented setting. Our office is paperless and uses the latest in eye care technology. We are looking for an experienced MOA who is highly organized, able to multi-task and communicates effectively.

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My heart still aches with sadness, And secret tears still flow, What it meant to lose you, No one will ever know.

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This position fulfills a leadership role in our clinic and will command a high wage. Please email cover letter and resume to hhollands.office@me.com

SMITH: It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Margaret Elsie Smith, on Thursday, December 18, 2014 at the Elk Valley Hospital, aged 90 years. Margaret was born in West Fernie to Nicholas and Mary Ewanick and spent many years in the Fernie area with her loving husband Stan raising her family. She will remembered for her many years of work at the Fernie Hospital where she was the head of housekeeping. Left to mourn her passing are her children; George, Ginny (Herb), Gary (Kathy), Randy, Glen (Janice), and Terrilyn (Bill); 12 grandchildren; 15 great grandchildren; 3 sisters and a brother. Margaret was predeceased by her husband and soul mate, Stan, parents Nick and Mary Ewanick, special sister, Isabele and 2 brothers Johnny and Billy. Cremation was held. Funeral Services will be held at a later date. Memorial donations may be made to the Children’s Charity of the donor’s choice. Memories and condolences shared at www. cherishedmemoriesfs.com Arrangements entrusted to Cherished Memories Funeral Services Ltd.

TRAUTMAN: Howard Joseph Trautman, loving father and grandfather, passed away suddenly in Fernie, BC on Sunday, December 21st at the age of 90 years. Howard was born August 5, 1924 in Culros, ON, the only son for parents Joseph and Ethel. When Howard married Marie in 1970, the self-proclaimed bachelor became an instant father; welcoming her children from a previous marriage into his life. Howard supported his new and growing family working at an automotive factory in Kitchener. By 1993 the Trautmans settled into retirement, moving West to be closer to their daughter Nancy and her family. Howard enjoyed cooking and prepared all of the family meals. An armchair referee, Howard cheered on his favorite teams, the Toronto Maple Leafs and the Blue Jays. He also loved hunting, fishing, playing cards and camping; and always looked forward to his birthday at Koocanusa with Dan and Nancy. Wanting to keep busy, Howard liked to work with his hands, fixing small engines, or helping Dan with his latest project. A devout Catholic, Howard’s unwavering faith comforted him throughout his life. Never one to complain, Howard loved bringing smiles and laughter to those around him with his great sense of humour and his quick wit. He loved his family deeply, and will be forever missed. Howard is survived by his stepchildren, Bruce (Brenda) Williams and Sandra (George) Barlen; his children, Gary Trautman, Nancy (Daniel) Kurschenska, and Paul Trautman; 12 grandchildren; 4 great grandchildren, and his sister Kathleen Maynard as well as many nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by his parents, 6 sisters: Sister Leona, Elmina, Helen, Agnes, Mary and Rita, his stepdaughter Carol-Ann Braby and son-in-law David Braby, grandchildren Michael, Cynthia-Lou and Cheryl-Lyn Braby, his stepson David Williams, his son Frank Trautman, and on October 30th, his beloved wife Marie. Prayers were held at the Holy Family Catholic Church on Tuesday, December 23rd with burial following in Kitchener, ON on Monday, December 29th. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the Recreation Dept. c/o Rocky Mountain Village. Arrangements entrusted to Cherished Memories Funeral Services Ltd. Memories and condolences shared at www.cherishedmemoriesfs.com

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June 8, 1976-Dec. 28, 2008 Our hearts still ache in sadness $nd secret tears still ÁoZ, What it meant to lose you, Only Ze Zill ever NnoZ. Love...bears all things, believes all things, endures all things, love never ends... $lZays in our hearts, Mom, Dad & Janice

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Sparwood Elkford Thursday, January 23, 2014

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

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Avy Awareness Days is a blast! Deer cull will

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Blairmore Pincher Creek Crowsnest Pass

Monday, January 20, 2014

Welcome to

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By Nicole Obre Free Press Staff

Avalanche Awareness Days - Page 2 ELKFORD

Deer cull given go ahead - Page 3 SPARWOOD

THE

FRE

EP RE

District drafts OCP Page 3

SPORT

Girls rule the ice Page 17 INSIDE THIS ISSUE nor Hockey Week Mi January 19 to 26, 2014

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Winter HOME IMPROVEMENT

Mini skiers and boarders took time off from their lesson at Fernie Alpine Resort to watch a Canadian Avalanche Rescue Dog Association demonstration during Avalanche Awareness Days on Saturday. For the full story and more photos, turn to page 2. Photo by N. Obre

ollowing an investigation and a one week suspension, the permit for Elkford's deer cull has been reinstated. While a date has not yet been set, the District of Elkford is free to resume culling deer anytime up until March 10. â&#x20AC;&#x153;[The District] has received a warning and will now be under a much more watchful eye around observing the permit conditions,â&#x20AC;? said John Krebs, regional manager, Recreational Fisheries and Wildlife Programs, Kootenay Boundary Region of Ministry of Forests, Lands and Natural Resource Operations. â&#x20AC;&#x153;We did reinstate the permit on Thursday afternoon (January 16) last week and Elkford is now remobilizing things to get their people and their equipment organized to reinitiate the operational part of the cull.â&#x20AC;? The District of Elkford initially began the cull at the start of January to decrease the population of 78-148 mule deer currently living within town limits. A license was issued by the B.C. Ministry of Forests, Lands and Natural Resources and Operations, allowing the District to kill up to 50 mule deer with the use of a clover trap and bolt gun. The 14 page permit issued outlined several guidelines and regulations, including that deer only be harvested during the night. â&#x20AC;&#x153;We suspended the permit on January 7 due to some complaints and concerns that we had with trapping outside of permit conditions, specifically trapping during daylight hours, which is not consistent with the permit,â&#x20AC;? explained Krebs. â&#x20AC;&#x153;We did an investigation with the Conservation Officer Service once we suspended the permit with the parties and followed up with that in Elkford.â&#x20AC;? He went on to say, â&#x20AC;&#x153;We sat down with the District and the contractor and the Conservation Officers over the whole situation and what the complaints and concerns were. We've made it very clear that we expect that the operation meets the terms of the permit.â&#x20AC;?

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Rare 3 bdrm corner unit. Open, spacious floor plan. In suite storage, balcony.

A must see! 4+ bdrms and 4 bathrooms located on one of the best lots in Fernie.

$1,999,000

Build your dream home in Fernie's premier mountain community 'Alpine Trails'. Jason & Candace 2390673

141B Aspen Dr. Sparwood, BC Phone: 250-425-2722

Candace Grey 2391879

$389,000

Melanie MacKay 2393397

$264,900

Jason & Candace 2394455

Luxurious Unit

Affordable Condo

Location, Location!

Lizard Creek Lodge

Great Location

Commercial/Residential

Full share-2 bdrm, 2 bath condo at Lizard Creek. Unit comes fully furnished.

Fully furnished 3 bdrm condo-over 1700 sq ft. Lock off bdrm.Balcony,hot tub

Extremely well maintained 3 bdrm home. Bright, open main floor plan. Hot tub.

Top floor 1 bedroom unit with high vaulted ceilings and lots of windows.

This 2 bdrm corner unit is fully furnished & well maintained. Great views.

4 bdrm house zoned C-Hwy on .083 acre. Prime highway location. Detached shop.

$38,500

$419,900

Candace & Jason 2394261

Jason & Candace 2203444

A Must See!

Ski In, Ski Out

Luxurious 2 bdrm, 3 bath condo at 901 Fernie. This unit is not GST applicable.

This 'deluxe studio' unit sleeps four comfortably. Fully furnished and stocked.

$499,900

Jason & Candace 2192672

$220,000

Candace & Jason 2206083

5 Acre Parcel

$359,000

Situated minutes from Fernie wth great views. Many building sites.

Candace & Jason 2389113

Jason Andreola

Elk Valley 250.423.1645

Craig Bell

$269,000

Candace & Frank 2392625

Custom Built Home

$474,900

Jason & Candace 2393526

$249,500

Candace & Jason 2394028

Reduced!!

$825,000

This 3/2 bdrm home shows pride of ownership throughout.Double garage. Jason & Candace 2392499

$239,900

Lovely corner 1 bdrm condo on 2nd floor with ski hill views. Open floor plan. Candace & Jason 2213159

Nice Unit

$265,000

This great 1 bedroom, 2 bath unit sleeps 6. Main floor location with balcony. Lorene Giles 2393725

$209,900

Candace & Jason 2389636

Ski In, Ski Out

$385,000

Jason & Candace 2210853

Commercial Lots

$207,500

Gorgeous fully furnished 1 bedroom, 2 bath condo at Lizard Creek Lodge. Jason & Candace 2391303

$286,000

Two CS-1 zoned lots in the Annex area. Must be purchased together.

Fernie Golf Estates

Prime Location!

Polar Peak Townhome

Triple Tree Estates.

Ski In, Ski Out

3/1 bedroom 1/2 duplex located on the 12th fairway. Tastefully finished.

Beautiful 2 bdrm corner unit at Fernie Alpine Resort.Ski in ski out location.

Very well maintained 3 bdrm, 3 level townhome with ski-in access.Garage.

South Country's newest acreage subdivision located in Grasmere. 6.4 acres.

Unique deluxe studio with loft situated on top floor with lovely views.

$1,199,000

Elk Valley 250.430.1162

Lorene Giles

Elk Valley 250.430.1066

$549,500

Candace & Jason 2392231

Candace Grey

Elk Valley 250.423.1044

$259,000

Jason & Candace 2218803

Melanie MacKay

Elk Valley 250.423.1800

Tricia Croteau

Sparwood 250.433.6996

$589,000

Candace & Jason 2201146

Frank Hughes

Elk Valley 250.425.5555

$159,900

Jason & Candace 2210918

Paula Smith

Elkford 866.425.3690

Fernieâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Winter Festival

Candace & Frank 2391186

Ski Hill Home

Luxurious 4 bdrm, 3.5 bath townhome at ski hill. Decks with hot tub. Garage. Jason & Candace 2391477

2013

$849,000

Craig Bell 2394296

Fernie Cafe & Coffee This business has been a successful operation for over 20 years. Hwy location

$289,900

Candace & Jason 2216444

Britainy Ernst

Sparwood 250.425.4188

March 1 - 2 - 3

Brought to you by the Fernie Chamber of Commerce

Carrie Lightburn

Personal Real Estate Corporation

Cranbrook 250.421.3629

Continued on page 3

Complete Real Estate, Property & Strata Management, and Mortgage Brokerage Services

for listing details, open houses with maps, property rentals & mortgages

@ www.thefreepress.ca The Free Press ~ March 2013

le edu Schnside I

www.thefreepress.ca

THE FREE PRESS Thursday, January 1, 2015

The Free Press Thursday, January 1, 2015

Rentals

Apt/Condo for Rent

Sparwood, B.C.

PINEWAY COURT Apartment Units r $MPTF UP EPXOUPXO r "GGPSEBCMF r )PU XBUFS JODMVEFE r :PVS OFX IPNF 1 Bdrm plus den $775 (& up) month

2VJFU t $PNGPSUBCMF t "GGPSEBCMF

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

Hot Water Included

2 Bdrm plus den $850 (& up) month

Walking Distance to Mall

250-425-9912

250-865-2722

Scenic Downtown Elkford

For Rent: Sparwood Fully furnished and decorated 2 bedroom, 1 bathroom condo ready to be moved into. Just bring your clothes. Comes with appliances including in suite washer and dryer. $1200 per month. No smoking/no pets. Call Rick at 250-425-5432 or Erin at 250-425-7711. References required.

ALPINE COURT Spacious NEW apartments 1 Bdrm - $775 (& up)-month 2 & 3 Bdrm- $850 (& up)- month Includes heat, lights, & hot water

250-865-2722 Live in scenic & peaceful Elkford

ALDERWOOD PLACE Comfortable apartment units

www.thefreepress.ca A23

Rentals

SPARWOOD, B.C.

Rentals

1-250-865-7676

Rentals

Transportation

Boats

Duplex / 4 Plex

Modular Homes

Homes for Rent

Sparwood - Several Mobile Homes for rent $700 - $1000 per month. Utilities not included. Please contact

Elkford 4 Bedroom Rancher with basement. Large rec room, fenced yard & single car garage. Call Tish for more info at 250-423-1487

House for Rent Sparwood Heights 3 bedroom, 2 1/2 bath home with newer paint and carpets. Large kitchen & dining area, large rec room with fireplace, large attached garage with a fenced yard. $1400 per month does not include utilities. Call Rick at 250-425-5432 or Erin at 250-425-7711

assistant@sparwoodrealestate.ca

or call 250-425-7711 for more information.

Furnished and Unfurnished Properties for rent in Sparwood and Elkford Contact Tammie Davy with Custom Real Estate and Property Management at 250-425-2968 or log on to www.elkvalleylistings.ca for more information.

assistant@sparwoodrealestate.ca or 250-425-7711 or 250-425-5432

1/2 Duplex in downtown Sparwood. 3 bedroom, 1 bathroom duplex with fresh paint, new flooring, new kitchen, fenced yard & shed. Great location downtown close to the school and a park across the street. $1000. per month. References required. Call Rick at 250-425-5432 or Erin at 250-425-7711

Modular Homes 94 Spardell - Newer 3 bedroom, 2 bathroom mobile home with an executive ensuite. Located in Spardell with a large fully fenced yard. No pets/no smoking. $1300 per month plus utilities. Please contact Erin at

Mobile Downtown Sparwood 373 Red Cedar-Clean 4 bedroom, 1 bath mobile close to the Rec Centre. Includes fridge, stove and washing machine. large porch, shed, large driveway - Older but clean. $850 pm. Utilities not included Call 250-425-7711 or email

Sparwood - Mobile homes for rent - Call 250-425-5387

Apt/Condo for Rent

assistant@sparwoodrealestate.ca

Sparwood House for rent. 1 Acre of Land, Workshop. Call 250-425-5387

Centennial Square, Sparwood

741B 2nd Ave., Fernie

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 Marcel Cote 250-425-6444

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 Sunday Service UCW Women’s Group

1 & 2 Bedroom Units Furnished & Unfurnished

695 per month

10:00 am 1st Tues each month 7:00 pm

1361 8th Avenue, Fernie EVERYONE WELCOME

Monday Mens Fellowship...7 pm Sunday Worship & Children’s Ministry...10:30 am Friday Youth Group...7 pm Friday Morning Prayer Group...10 am Office 250-423-4114

521 4th Avenue, Fernie

Clergy: Jane Clarke D.L.M. 250-423-6010 www.elkvalleyunited.com

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

YOU’RE WELCOME AT KNOX

Father Marcel Cote

(formerly Fernie Baptist Church)

1622 10th Avenue, Fernie 250-423-4112 www.mountainsidechurch.ca

Sunday Services

250-423-1358

TRINITY PENTECOSTAL TABERNACLE

Parish Office 250-423-6127 Masses:

SPARWOOD CHRISTIAN CENTRE

For more information call

for more information 1-800-663-6189 www.transplant.bc.ca

HOLY FAMILY PARISH Catholic Church

201 2nd Avenue, Fernie

Apartments for Rent

Located behind the Best Western

Give life .... register to be an organ donor today!

Sparwood 3 bdrm, 2 bath, full kitchen, dishwasher large deck, hot tub. No pets. $1800/mo. References required. 250-531-0565.

ST. MICHAEL’S PARISH

for information.

1422 & 1462 – 6th Avenue, Fernie

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

ELK VALLEY CHURCH SERVICES

assistant@sparwoodrealestate.ca or 250-425-7711 or 250-425-5432.

Mobile home for rent in Little Acres Mobile Home Park. 3 bedroom, one bathroom mobile with an addition, deck and fenced yard. $650 per month. (Utilities not included) Call Rick at 250-425-5432 or Erin at 250-425-7711

World’s Finest FISHING BOATS

SPARWOOD, 2-storey, 3bdrm townhouse for rent w/full basement, close to school & rec centre. (250)425-4448 primeprop@mymts.net

House for rent - Sparwood 3 bedroom log home 1800 sq. ft. 3 bathroom, full basement, wrap around deck, large yard on acreage, privacy, beautiful views - $1500 per month plus all utilities. (Propane heat) No pets or smoking. Call Rick at 250-425-5432 or Erin at 250-425-7711. References required.

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

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

Rentals

1228 Pinyon - One of the largest duplexes in Sparwood. This unit has 3 bedrooms/2 bathrooms and a fully finished basement, new paint, paved driveway, shed and a large fenced yard. $1200. per month not including utilities. Please contact Erin at

New condos in Sparwood Heights 2 bed/2 bath units are $1250. per month. 2 bed/1 bath units $1200 per month. These units are in a new complex. New stainless steel appliances, granite counters, in suite washer/dryer. Building comes with an elevator and on site storage unit. No smoking or pets allowed. References required. (Utilities not included) Call Rick at 250-425-5432 or Erin at 250-425-7711

From

436 Pine Avenue Sparwood BC V0B 2G0

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

250-425-7787 Affiliated with the Pentecostal Assemblies of Canada (PAOC)

10:00 am in Fernie 4:00 pm Sparwood Campus gathering

Services: Sunday 10:00 am Wednesday Bible Study: 6:47 pm

Contact Pastor Shawn Barden shawnbarden@gmail.com

Pastor: Rev. R.G. (Ross) Powell

Everyone Welcome

Christ Church Anglican Fernie

Sunday Service Wednesday Service

We've got you covered The Free Press Distribution Area

Number of papers distributed FFP- Fernie Free Press

Elkford FFP - 723

www.thefreepress.ca Sparwood

THE FREE PRESS

FFP - 1785

Fernie

Est. 1898

FFP - 2735

Jaffray Elko

South Country

FFP - 649

8:30 am BCP

Sunday Service & School 9:30 am BAS

Total

FFP- 5892

10:00 am

www.thefreepress.ca

THE FREE PRESS Thursday, January 1, 2015

DECEMBER 2014

Winter storm blasts through the Elk Valley By Sarah Kucharski Free Press Staff

stranded motorists in the darkness of the storm when highway conditions proved treacherous or closed as part of Sparwood’s Emergency Social Services (ESS).

“The people who attended were very appreciative, they always are,” said Sylvia Jones, director of ESS. “Our volunteers have always showed up and we’re

extremely professional and I have a great group.” The centre offered hot beverages and snacks to all who dropped by.

nvironment Canada issued a storm warning for Fernie and the Elk Valley on Friday, November 28 and by the following Saturday morning, approximately 33 cm of snow fell in the area according to Fernie Alpine Resort. Previous rainfall also left the Elk Valley blanketed in frost. Heavy snow combined with winds blowing between 50-70 km/hour rushed When you get cozy with a TELUS Satellite TV and Internet bundle. through the Elk Valley and made for poor driving visibility. Locals were advised to stay off the roads unless absolutely necessary. At the Elkview mines in Sparwood, approximately 37 workers were stuck due to highway closures, preventing them from going offsite. Alex Hanson, president of United Steelworkers 9346, posted an update on the Elk Valley Road Report Facebook page regarding the workers’ conditions. Although Hanson said that Teck has a contingency plan for weather-related emergencies such as this to ensure workers will have access to hot meals and cots, he still appreciated the outpouring of support that soon piled in from local businesses such as Extra Foods Get a FREE 40" Samsung Smart TV when you and Funky’s pizza in Sparwood offering sign up for TELUS Satellite TV and Internet for 3 years. their food services. “It was cool to see the community pitch in and say, ‘What can we do about the situation?’,” said Hanson. “Seeing social media actually get put to good use was cool. Thankfully, the storm blew in and out within a few hours.” “It’s happened before,” said Hanson Call 310-MYTV (6988), go to telus.com/snuggleup or visit your TELUS store. of the situation, “but we just want to make sure that more people don’t get trapped in TELUS STORE OR AUTHORIZED DEALER the weather trying Cranbrook to get food to these Tamarack Centre 101 Kootenay St North 717 Industrial Rd 2 workers.” 1. Offer available until December 31, 2014, to residential customers who have not subscribed to TELUS Satellite TV or Internet in the past 90 days. Minimum system requirements apply. Final eligibility for the services will be determined by a TELUS representative. TELUS reserves the right to modify channel lineups and packaging, and regular pricing without notice. Cannot be combined with other offers. HDTV-input-equipped television required to watch HD. A retail value of $689, based on the manufacturer’s suggested retail price, plus a 2 year extended warranty, provincial government eco fees and shipping. TELUS reserves On Friday, the the right to substitute an equivalent or better product without notice. A cancellation fee applies for early termination of the service agreement. The cancellation fee will be the value of the promotional gift received in return for your term commitment, multiplied by the number of months remaining in the term (with Sparwood Leisure a partial month counting as a full month), divided by the total number of months in the term, plus applicable taxes. If you have chosen free PVR and digital box rental, an additional cancellation fee applies and will be $10 multiplied by the number of months remaining in the term. Rental equipment must be returned in good condition upon cancellation of service, otherwise the replacement cost will be charged to the account. TELUS, the TELUS logo, telus.com and the future is friendly are trademarks of TELUS Corporation, used under licence. Samsung and the Samsung logo are trademarks or registered trademarks of Samsung Centre also served as Canada. All other trademarks are the property of their respective owners. © 2014 TELUS. a warming spot for

Snuggle up to a FREE TV.