The Free Press, July 09, 2015 by Black Press Media Group

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FR E E

Elk Valley celebrates Wildfire calls for evacuation Canada Day

in Baynes Lake

MON-TUES MADNESS! Ask us for details.

1221 7 Ave, Hwy 3 Fernie

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By Sarah Kucharski Free Press Staff

COMMUNITY

2nd annual Dumpster Art Project - Page A15 BUSINESS

Elkford Drug Store opens - Page A17 ENTERTAINMENT

Touring band Sun K perform - Page A16

SPORTS

Roller girls skate to win - Page B7

Women on stilts, decked out in red and white led the Canada Day Pet & Bike Parade around the Fernie Aquatic Centre. For more photos and the full story, turn to pages A10 and A11. Photo by K. Dingman

n evacuation alert was sent out to residents of the Kragmont and Baynes Lake areas on Sunday morning following a wildfire that broke out earlier on Saturday. An earlier mandatory evacuation order in Kragmont was later rescinded by Sunday afternoon. Under the order, Kragmont residents were informed to leave immediately and register at the Jaffray Community Hall. The presence of strong winds throughout the late afternoon on Saturday and into the night created “very aggressive fire behaviour” in a wildland fire that broke out over the weekend, according to Communications Manager for the Regional District of East Kootenay (RDEK) Loree Duczek. Overnight precipitation and lighter winds helped to settle the fire since it initially flared. By Tuesday morning, approximately 75 per cent of the fire had been contained and the BC Wildfire Service obtained a solid GPS reading, mapping the fire at 117 hectares. Forty-two firefighters were on scene Tuesday to contain the blaze. In Kragmont, the evacuation was applicable to residents living in properties south of 1347 Waldo Rd. — including Conroy Road, Tranquility Road, Gavin Road, Canyon Cut Off, Grasmere-Dorr Road, Dorr Cut Off Road and Elko Grasmere Road. As a precaution, Baynes Lake residents were placed under an evacuation alert. “Now is the time for people in the Baynes Lake area to get prepared in the event that conditions worsen and the Evacuation Order boundary needs to be expanded. We encourage people to gather important documents, medications, papers, and personal supplies so that they are ready to go should an order be issued,” advised Duczek. Baynes Lake residents living north of 1347 Waldo Rd. to Kikomun Road were advised to follow evacuation protocol. According to Duczek, the RDEK declared a State of Local Emergency for both areas and the local emergency programs were activated to coordinate the evacuation orders and alerts as well as provide Emergency Social Services to support those affected by the wildfire. The BC Wildfire Service worked to contain the fire, which blazed south of Baynes Lake, near the Elk River. Air tankers were used to douse the fire and helicopters are continuing to drop water while ground crews and heavy equipment tended to the flames on site, according to an RDEK press release issued at approximately 3:30 a.m. on July 5.

OPEN DAILY JUNE 27 - SEPTEMBER 6

THE FREE PRESS Thursday, July 9, 2015

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Traffic halted following Canada Day collision

of the Ready Mix area (Garrett Ready Mix Ltd. area),” Thien explained. “Somehow the trailer started to give way.” woman in her 50s was treated for nonThien added that the trailer life threatening injuries then fishtailed, causing vehicles after being involved in a in the opposite lane to quickly “A vehicle hauling a Highway 3 collision three kilobrake, including a tanker truck. bunch of gravel came metres west of Sparwood on July Thien said that five vehicles out of the Ready Mix 1. were involved in the collision. Although unconfirmed, a family area [and] somehow “There was no fuel leak or pet is also suspected to have been the trailer started to anything from the tanker,” he killed in the incident. give way.” noted. The collision, which occurred Due to the location of the at Olson Crossing, occurred at Will Thien accident, where there are no approximately 10:45 a.m. after a Elk Valley RCMP detours, traffic was backed vehicle hauling gravel tipped and up on Highway 3 for several its trailer collided head-on with a hours. Dodge pickup truck, Elk Valley “Unfortunately because of the location of the RCMP Sgt. Will Thien said. collision, it actually caused a four to five hour “A vehicle hauling a bunch of gravel came out backlog,” Thien explained. By Katelyn Dingman Free Press Staff

Celebrating 100 years at Overwaitea Appointment Notice Rick O’Connor, President and CEO of Black Press Group Ltd. is pleased to announce the appointment of Andrew Franklin as Director of Digital Development for the Black Press Group British Columbia Divisions. Andrew will be responsible for developing, implementing, tracking and optimizing digital marketing and audience development across British Columbia. He will work with digital staff and group Presidents to further develop our websites and mobile platforms as we continue to grow the digital part of our media business. Andrew has managed award-winning teams over his 30-year newspaper career and has received North American-wide industry recognition for innovative digital initiatives over the last five years. Recently he has taken a lead role in launching new products including the crowdfunding program BlackPress4Good. Andrew currently serves as director of both the CCNA and BCYCNA newspaper associations and will continue to hold his position of Publisher at The Abbotsford News and Mission Record. He also serves on multiple committees and boards in the community. He has been awarded Rotary’s coveted Paul Harris Fellow on two occasions. He is married and lives in Abbotsford. Andrew has a passion and a key understanding of the steps we need to take to further enhance Black Press’ s’ capabilities in the digital space. Please join me in congratulating Andrew ulating An ndrew in this new role with Black Press. Rick O’Connor President and CEO Black Press

Andrew Franklin Director of Digital Development

blackpress.ca ◆ bclocalnews.com

From left: Lori Dvorak, Cory Dvorak, Rob Foster, Kurtis Caldwell and Mark Lento stand in front of a historic Overwaitea vehicle. The store celebrated their 100th anniversary on July 3. Photo by K. Dingman

a local supporter and a community event supporter,” Lento said. “We try our best to be involved in everything that is Fernie.” ocals were invited to join the Overwaitea In addition to a free barbeque in Fernie, Foods staff on July 3 in Fernie and July 4 the Creative Energy Arts Factory also danced in Sparwood as they around the Overwaitea lot, celebrated the stores’ 100th showcasing their moves before they anniversary with dancing, “It’s a big event head to Disneyland this summer, prizes, hot dogs and ice celebrating our where they will dance for Disney’s cream. 50th Diamond Anniversary parade. rich history.” “It’s a big event “They did a fantastic job,” Lento celebrating our rich Mark Lento said of the group. history,” Fernie Overwaitea Overwaitea store A historic Overwaitea truck was store manager Mark Lento manager also displayed out front of both said. locations. At each location, Sparwood Overwaitea store Overwaitea donated all of manager Ryan Ogden highlighted the historic the food and drinks for the barbecue. Hot dogs value of the store, stating, “I think it’s important and pop were available by donation with all to recognize the store’s history.” the proceeds going towards local charities. The truck will be on display at all of the “We’re such a local part of our community Overwaitea locations throughout B.C. and that’s what we pride ourselves in, being

By Katelyn Dingman Free Press Staff

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THE FREE PRESS Thursday, July 9, 2015

Campfire ban in Kootenays

RCMP seek public help following Elkford assault

the public is otherwise notified, is an addition to the current Category 2 and Category 3 open burning prohibitions already in place, a press release sent out by the Ministry of Forests, Land and Natural Resource Operations on June 30 said. The prohibition covers all BC Parks, Crown lands and private land, and includes campfires as defined in the wildfire regulation, the burning of waste or other materials, stubble or grass fires of any size, the use of fireworks, sky lanterns, tiki torches, chimineas, burning barrels or burning cages of any size, the use of binary exploding targets and the use of air curtain burners. Boundaries of a local government that has forest fire prevention bylaws and is serviced by a fire department are exempt from the ban. The fire ban, however, is in place in Fernie. On Thursday, July 2, the City of Fernie sent out a press release notifying the public that the city, Fire and Emergency Services Department is prohibiting all campfires (including all fire pits) A ban on personal fireworks has been put in place by the City of Fernie, Fire and fireworks within the city and Emergency Services Department. Photo by S. Kucharski boundaries. A $345 ticket may be issued to By Katelyn Dingman anyone found violating the fire Free Press Staff prohibition, in addition to an administrative penalty of $10,000 or, if convicted in court, a fine of up to $100,000 aking effect at noon on Friday, July 3, campfires and/or a one-year jail sentence. are banned in the Southeast Fire Centre. To report a wildfire or open burning violation, call The fire ban, which will remain in place until 1-800-663-5555 toll-free or *5555 on a cellphone.

By Sarah Kucharski Free Press Staff

n investigation into the assault of a woman in Elkford is open to public assistance, according to the RCMP. The incident occurred early in the morning of Sunday, June 28 when a male suspect assaulted a female who had been walking alone near the Elkford Recreation Centre. The suspect is described as 5’8” and approximately 175 lbs, wearing a plain white t-shirt and black athletic shorts with long, dark hair that was slicked back. The male suspect may be injured and was last seen near the Wildcat Days Cabaret. Further details of the assault have not been released. Any relevant information can be provided to the Elk Valley RCMP by phone at 250-425-6233 or anonymously through Crime Stoppers by calling 1-800222-8477.

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

January 13, 2011 2015 SUMMER

District of sparwooD Launches new BranD

SWIM LESSON SCHEDULE All classes run Monday - Friday 30 minute lessons: $20/week 1 hour lessons: $40/week

Summer Set #2: July 13th - July 17th, 2015 9:30 - 10:00 am

Pool Schedule June 29 – September 3, 2015

SUMMER DANCE CAMPS

Level 2, Level 3, Level 4

10:00 - 10:30 am

Sea Otter, Level 1

10:30 - 11:30 am

Level 8, 9, 10 (1 hour lesson)

10:30 – 11:00 am

Salamander

11:00 – 11:30 am

Level 5, Level 6

Ages 5 - 7 August 24 - 28, 2015 9:00 - 11:30 am Monday - Friday Cost: $125.00

Ages 8 - 11 August 24 - 28, 2015 12:30 – 4:00 pm Monday - Friday Cost: $155.00

Start working on regaining your previous flexibility levels and get your "dance legs" back for the upcoming 20152016 dance season. Use this week long session to try a sampling of different styles of dance and find out what truly piques your interest.

Early Bird Swim

Mon, Wed & Fri

6:30 - 9:30 am

Gentle Fit

Mon & Wed

8:30 - 9:15 am

Aquafit

Tues & Thurs Tues

8:30 - 9:15 am 8:00 - 9:00 pm

Lane Swim

Mon - Fri Mon - Sat Sat & Sun Sun

Yours & Mine. together. OTHER FUN THINGS TO DO

12:00 5:30 1:00 5:00

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pm pm pm pm

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Sat & Sun

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Public Swim

Mon - Fri Mon, Wed & Sat Tues, Thurs & Fri Sat Sun

1:00 - 4:00 pm 6:30 - 9:00 pm 6:30 - 8:00 pm 3:00 - 5:30 pm 3:00 - 5:00 pm

SPARWOOD WATER PARK For those hot days of summer, enjoy this great green space The District of Sparwood is pleased to announce the Melcer. “This allows our brand to resonate with our most located behind the Leisure Centre. Now Open dawn till Summer Set #3: July 20th - July 24th, 2015 Free Swim Fri 4:00 - 5:30 pm dusk. launch of its new brand and identity. “We’re now important audience first — ourTues own community.” 14+ Hot Tub Only 8:00 - 9:00 pm 9:30 - 10:30 am Level 8, 9, 10 (1 hour lesson) PICKLE BALL 14+ Thurs 8:00 - 9:00 pm ideally positioned to clearly and consistently share our Have fun playing in the court behind the Leisure Centre. 9:30 – 10:00 am Salamander Equipment is available to sign out at the Leisure CentreThe frontinitial results of the branding exercise include a new District of office. 10:00 – 10:30 amcommunity’s Level 2 story,” said Terry Melcer, The

11:30 – 12:00 pm

Whale

Chief 10:30 – 11:00 amSparwood’s Sea Otter, LevelAdministrative 1

DISC GOLF Officer.

Parwood Disc Golf Course is a beautiful Mountain Course located 11:00 – 11:30 am Level 3, Level 4, Level 5 in the Sparwood Heights area. Unlike many community brands, Sparwood’s brand has 11:30 – 12:00 pm Level 7 There are eighteen baskets to enjoy. Great for not #4: been developed to increase tourism orall ages! Discs are Summer Set July 27th – Julyprimarily 31st, 2014 available to rent and instructions are available at the Leisure Centre. visitors. Rather, its brand development 9:30 - 10:00 am attract destination Salamander, Sunfi sh, Crocodile

HIKING TRAILS its6,distinctive characteristics, demonstrate 10:00 - 10:30 amis to strengthen Level 5, Level Level 7 Sparwood offers many hiking trails from paved to forested. These are 10:30 - 11:00 ama desireWhale, Level 3 to develop economic diversity, and to continue guaranteed to satisfy the explorer in you! 11:00 - 11:30 am Sea Otter, Level 4

to continue to provide a solid foundation to increase

SUMMER ADVENTURE CAMP

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forward Get andoutbegins proactively its story. and betoactive! A varietyshare of activities will be “We’re

offered. A summer camp is incomplete without its games. Join us for some fun times! Create something special inspired by Mother Nature! Explorers will experience not intentsportsmanship on strictly and developing a tourism creativity, individualityas while learning in a fun and friendly environment.

community,” says Melcer. “But we are intent on

THE FREE PRESS Thursday, July 9, 2015

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Sparwood Market to go on Market founder steps down

Co-chairs Tracy Kaisner and Jen Gardiner recently took over the Sparwood Farmer’s Market after former member and market founder Amy Cardozo stepped down.

Photo take from Sparwood Market Facebook page.

“A major issue was what time we would open the gate. We felt as a chamber we didn’t want to open the gate until 3 p.m. because we had to ollowing management and organization think about the safety of tourists around the Titan complications, the Sparwood Market Truck. People were coming in earlier and earlier continued with its regular scheduling on to set up and get there first to obtain shady spots. Friday, July 3 in the district. For us, we couldn’t have trucks backing in and Organizing issues arose when former Farmer’s out when we have little kids and tourists around Market Society member, and market founder, the truck,” explained McDougall. Amy Cardozo ended the market due to what A day following Cardozo’s post and e-mails Cardozo felt was a lack of support from the to market vendors cancelling the summer series Sparwood Chamber of Commerce and the (June 30), a reborn Sparwood Market Facebook district’s staff. page was created by current Sparwood Market “Being a person who very much believes in co-chairs Tracy Kaisner and Jen Gardiner. creating solutions, not According to Gardiner and McDougall, it was a problems, we need a scramble to get the second market ready in time chamber who cares following Cardozo’s departure. about their members “It was a surprise for us that she was leaving,” and goes out of their said Gardiner, “but we way to help want to thank Amy, [ t h e m ] , the founder, for all the “Being a person who not cause hard work she did when very much believes hindrance. she was involved with We need our in creating solutions, the market. We’re still district to not problems...we excited to move forward support our need our district to and we’ll try to make local small some changes, including support our local businesses,” new vendors as well as small businesses.” w r o t e bigger and better live Cardozo in music.” Amy Cardozo a post to the Gardiner added, “We Former Sparwood Sparwood feel really good about the Farmer’s Market Society Farmer ’s market moving forward member M a r k e t and we have a ton of Facebook support from the district page, dated and chamber.” June 29. McDougall concurred, saying, “I think everyone Cardozo described came together really well last Tuesday [June 30] her experiences with between district staff and chamber staff as well as requiring approval the existing two members of the market. I think for board signs, a lack that was wonderful.” of follow through in On Tuesday, July 7, Kaisner and Gardiner met assistance from the with McDougall to discuss future plans for the district in booking market. live music and the “The Chamber of Commerce has always been district providing here to assist with the market and we always former Farmer ’s want to do whatever we can to make sure it’s a Market vendors with go,” said McDougall. a competing business According to McDougall, the chamber has license external to the offered to pay for live music at the market for the market. next two to three weeks as well as pay for four Sparwood Chamber new sandwich board signs to be made. of Commerce Manager The Chamber of Commerce will also be joining Norma McDougall the lineup of tents at the market and will serve as refuted Cardozo’s a type of information centre for the market. claims, particularly The Sparwood Market will continue for the rest that of the gate opening of the summer until September 4, every Friday for vendors to set up night from 4-8 p.m. for the market’s 4 p.m. For more information on the Sparwood Market, start time. visit www.sparwoodmarket.com.

By Sarah Kucharski Free Press Staff

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

Park Place Lodge 742 Highway 3 • Fernie

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THE FREE PRESS Thursday, July 9, 2015

Fernie SAR assist injured biker Slow Down, Move Over

Fighting against a rain storm, Fernie Search and Rescue carried a 24-year-old biker down Mount Proctor’s Swine Flu trail on the evening of Monday, June 29. Submitted photo By Katelyn Dingman Free Press Staff

ernie Search and Rescue (SAR) and the Fernie Fire & Emergency Services Department assisted an injured biker on Mount Proctor’s Swine Flu trail the evening of Monday, June 29. The biker, a 24-year-old local man, fell off his bike near the top of the trail, sustaining injuries that raised concern over possible spinal complications, SAR manager Simon Piney said in

a press release. The male was stabilized on a spinal board, and a wheeled litter carrier, ropes and manpower were used to bring him down to Highway 3. SAR and Fernie Fire responded to the incident at 9 p.m. and the injured individual was passed on to British Columbia Ambulance Service (BCAS) shortly after midnight on Tuesday, June 30. “We are grateful to all the responders who came out to help,” SAR manager Rob Lanthier said. “The descent was slowed considerably by a severe thunderstorm during the rescue, which made the trail very slippery, but we are happy to hear that the injured man is now doing

well.” Fernie SAR also responded to a missing person’s case on Tuesday, June 30, assisting Cranbrook SAR with their search for a 67-yearold woman who went missing from Rock Lake campground following a dispute with family members. She was later found safe and sound. During Canada Day, Fernie SAR also provided rescue support for the Cardboard Boat Race on Maiden Lake.

These changes sought to provide maintenance and utility workers, land surveyors, animal ith summer heat comes control workers and garbage summer construction collectors with more protection and sitting in both as from passing traffic. seasonal traffic piles up on East Mainroad is reminding drivers Kootenay roads. As summer to look for cone zoned areas maintenance where East and construcKootenay crews tion activities are working “To minimize impact come into full to complete to the driving public... swing this sumsummer season we aim to schedule mer, Mainroad maintenance. maintenance during is reminding In Fernie, this non-peak traffic drivers of the means road periods.” Slow Down, base repairs and Move Over in Elkford the Al Sander regulation. widening of the General Manager for “To minimize Fording River Mainroad East Kootenay impact to the Road. Other Contracting LP driving public, operations in the especially on East Kootenay Fridays, we will include dust aim to schedule maintenance control, grading on gravel roads, during non-peak traffic periods. patching potholes and paving. Please visit DriveBC.ca before Mainroad recommends driving heading out,” noted Al Sander, with extreme care in cone zoned General Manager for Mainroad areas, staying alert, minimizing East Kootenay Contracting LP in distractions and showing respect a press release. for the person working at the side The January 2015 amendment of the road. to the Slow Down, Move Over Mainroad is responsible for the law requires drivers to slow to 70 plowing and road maintenance km/h in speed limit zones of 80 of provincial highways and roads km/h or higher and down to 40 in many areas including the East km/h in speed limit zones below Kootenay. 80 km/h.

By Sarah Kucharski Free Press Staff

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

Fire Ban in Effect for the East Kootenays Effective at noon Pacific Time on Friday, July 3, 2015, campfires will be prohibited throughout the Southeast Fire Centre to help prevent humancaused wildfires and to protect public safety. This ban also includes any fires within the District of Elkford. All local fire pit permits have been rescinded until further notice. The campfire prohibition will remain in place until the public is otherwise notified. This measure is in addition to Category 2 and Category 3 open burning prohibitions that are already in effect. For more information visit www.bcwildfire.ca.

The Draft Community Energy Efﬁciency Plan is available for public review on the District of Elkford Website. Please contact Planning and Development Services if you would like additional information 250.865.4000.

Upcoming Council and Committee Meetings

Summer Programs Children will get creative to build unique birdhouses and make homemade bubbles, followed by some carefree time to play with their bubbles. If time permits, instructors will lead children in a fun game. Backup location in case of bad weather is the Elkford Community Conference Centre. Come and rock with us! At this two-day Summer art camp, we will be collecting rocks from alongside our beautiful Elk River and Boivin Creek to turn them into a variety of artistic objects and décor. The ﬁrst day will be spent outdoors collecting rocks, so please ensure children are dressed accordingly and send a light snack and water bottle.

Summer Rocks Art Camp #1 (5 - 8 Years) Date: Time: Location: Cost: Min./Max.

July 22nd & 23rd 1:00 pm - 3:00 pm Art Studio Elkford Recreation Centre $37.12 Minimum: 5, Maximum 10

Pre-registration required. Registration Deadline: July 15 • July 13th • July 27th

Regular Council Regular Council

@ 6 pm @ 6 pm

Carefree Craft Day #2 Date: Time: Location:

Cost: Min./Max. Ages:

August 11th 12:30 pm - 2:30 pm Meet at the Elkford Community Conference Centre Group will walk to Ball Diamonds $21.00 Minimum: 12, no maximum All ages are welcome, but children under the age of 5 are required to have a parent stay with them.

Pre-registration required. Registration Deadline: August 4 These meetings will be held in the Council Chambers at 816 Michel Road and are open to the public.

THE FREE PRESS Thursday, July 9, 2015

Opinion

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

Production Manager Bonny McLardy Creative Kaitlyn Haarstad Member of

Circulation Shannon Stewart

Editorial Office - 342 2nd Avenue Box 2350, Fernie, B.C. V0B 1M0 Tel: (250) 423-4666 Toll Free 1-866-337-6437 Editorial email: editor@thefreepress.ca Advertising email: advertising@thefreepress.ca Publisher’s email: publisher@thefreepress.ca website: www.thefreepress.ca

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Editorial by Katelyn Dingman

This year’s Canada Day went off with a bang. Literally. Fernie’s Canada Day fireworks lit up the night sky, with locals oohing and aahing at the spectacle for what seemed like nearly half an hour. Moving to Fernie from a big city, I have to say I am quite impressed by the amount of effort that is put into hosting a major annual celebration. I spent the day covering Canada Day activities, while our reporter Sarah headed off to Elkford and Sparwood to celebrate our country and take some great photos. In Fernie, the wide array of activities appeared to keep locals entertained throughout the entire day and into the evening. Starting with the Cardboard Boat Race at 11 a.m. at Maiden Lake, followed by the annual Pet & Bike Parade, three dances performed by the Creative Energy Arts Factory, cake and refreshments, the Fernie Aquatic Centre’s Free Swim, the Old School Boxing Club’s demonstration and finally topped off with fireworks, the activities for adults and children alike seemed endless. Due to abnormally high temperatures this Canada Day, the field and parking lot adjacent to the Fernie Aquatic Centre seemed to remain consistently filled with patrons. For those individuals needing to cool off, the splash park, the Fernie Aquatic Centre pool, the Avalanche City Roller Girls (ACRG) dunk tank and the beer tent, also run by ACRG, gave them an ample opportunity to get wet, cool down and continue to enjoy the day’s festivities. In addition, the various mobile street vendors provided copious amounts of food. Vendors set up during the Canada Day celebration included Yama 2 Go Sushi, the Chopstick Truck, Cook’s Cabin and Happy Cow. Along with the various types of food offered through the mobile food vendors, visitors also enjoyed food stands, including the Fernie Hotel stand. The Fernie Mountain Market kicked off their season in Fernie last Wednesday as well, selling clothing, craft items and yes, more food. Live music was another key feature in this year’s Canada Day celebration, with both local and touring bands making their way to Fernie to perform short sets in the afternoon and longer sets in the evening. Despite the heat keeping many locals off the hot cement parking lot, the music travelled to the shaded tent beside the stage, keeping patrons entertained. Kudos goes to all the organizers and participants of the Canada Day celebration here in Fernie. It truly did blow me away, keeping me full and captivated throughout the entire day.

Katelyn Dingman EDITOR

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Letters to the Editor

Jemi Fibre recently logged near Josephine Falls in Elkford. Submitted photo

Destructive ways Twenty-five years ago I bought my condo in Elkford, the ‘Wilderness Capital of British Columbia,’ as a mountain getaway for recreation purposes. What happened? Over the years this pristine valley has suffered huge swaths of clear cutting forest harvest that definitely has changed this wilderness capital! Each winter, residents and visitors are amazed at yet another clear cut area. The most recent cut just east of Elkford townsite is one of the ugliest. Climbing the roadway to Line Creek and Fording River coal mine sites, the landscape takes on the appearance of mass destruction. Trees and shrubs have been mowed down, leaving huge piles of unwanted tree trunks that look

like massive graves! Oh, if Emily Carr could comment on this mess. The Elkford viewpoint on Fording Road looks more like a World War I battleground. Gone are the wildflowers: arnica, violets, fireweed, miner's lantern as well as raspberries, saskatoons and cow parsnip. Gone is the habitat for moose, elk, red squirrel, bear and deer. Gone are the stately lodgepole pine. Continuing up this road, we come to the Josephine Falls, Lily/Lost Lake hiking trails ... wow, what happened to our summer/winter paradise? With this winter's clear cut, trails were wiped out and I got lost trying to find my way to Josephine Falls in February. On the May long weekend, we drove down a forestry road searching for the trails and a solo hiker/new Elkford resident approached us, totally disorientated and asked for directions back to town! This recreational area and Josephine Falls Trail was Elkford's most visited site. Not anymore – now the views are an appalling mess of debris! Permanent residents of Elkford must be very upset. How is it possible the B.C. forestry industry was allowed to destroy this beautiful recreational area? I understand that jobs and income are important, but surely there must be a new better way to harvest this resource? I have traveled to many countries where the forest industry is important and selective logging is a common practice. Nowhere did I see such ruthless mass destruction. Isn't it time to change Canada's old clear cutting techniques to better preserve this natural resource. Recreation is very necessary in our modern stressful world. My wife and I, along with many friends/fellow residents, have enjoyed hiking, snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, downhill skiing, quadding and snowmobiling in the Elkford area. These activities will be curtailed for the next 10 years due to the recent clear cutting. It’s too bad because that is a long time to wait. Recently, friends sold their condo because it was heartbreaking to see the devastation ... what can be done before there is more clear cutting? Richard Smith, Deerbourne condo owner, Elkford, B.C.

POLL OF THE WEEK Do you safely extinguish your fire when you camp?

Yes 71% No 29% This week’s poll question: Have you been affected by the recent logging n Elkford?

log onto www.thefreepress.ca to make your vote count or call our office at 250-423-4666 This web poll is informal, not scientific. It reflects opinions of site visitors who voluntarily participate. Results may not represent the opinions of the public as a whole. Black Press is not responsible for the statistical accuracy of opinions expressed here.

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Letters to the Editor continued from page 6 Restaurant owners and street vendors The debate between the brick and mortar restaurant owners and street vendors has re-emerged in downtown Fernie. In attempting to seek a solution, the debater, however, must consider the principles on which the Canadian government and economy are built: democracy and capitalism. These two principles permit any Canadian, landed immigrant, or foreign guests who meet the Canadian criteria to be able to establish a legitimate business. No seller of property, landlord, or government agent may use discriminatory measures to hinder or prohibit the entrepreneur’s endeavours. Embodied in the capitalistic/free enterprise system is competition. The success of a business relies primarily on the provision of goods and services that prove to be in accordance with the need and demand of the public or a clientele. Consequently, an entrepreneur must be in

A reply to Joe Sawchuck’s recent tax letter

THE FREE PRESS Thursday, July 9, 2015

tune with the need and demand of its customers, provide quality at a price a customer is willing to pay, balance income with costs, and make a profit so as to pay his costs and earn a livelihood. In the competitive, capitalistic/free enterprise system, the opportunity of achieving either success or failure is part and parcel of the system. Success is the aim; however, failure may result if those previous business requirements aren’t met. At times, competition may be unfair. A competitor may undercut another business, exercise unscrupulous acts, or exert undue pressures. Although he may succeed by these means and become prosperous in the immediacy, most likely he will acquire an unfavourable reputation that can prove to be detrimental later. Under the capitalistic/free enterprise system, there is no debate between the brick and mortar restaurant owners and street vendors. In all cases, the customer ultimately determines the success or failure in accordance with the need and quality of goods and services. The argument that street vendors deter from the brick and mortar restaurants has little credence or statistical evidence. The two businesses are very different from one another and cater to different clientele with different needs. If, indeed, a brick and mortar restaurant owner

bailed out by the International Monetary Fund, Conservative PM Brian Mulroney took a $200 billion deficit from Trudeau Senior and turned it into a $514 billion deficit (and then imposed the GST to pay for his incompetence) and right-wing BC premier Gordon Campbell turned a $1.56 billion NDP surplus into a $2.65 billion deficit in one year. In 2012, the Harper Conservatives' finance minister took $6 billion from the public purse and “stimulated” a mere $600 million worth of new business. At a level understandable to the rest of us, only a fiscal incompetent would take $6,000, for example, and invest it for a guaranteed return of $600.

In his song of praise to corporate tax breaks, (Letter to the Editor, Free Press, July 2) Joe Sawchuck has ignored one indisputable fact. They don't work. If every percentage point that corporate taxes are raised means that there are fewer jobs, as Sawchuk claims, then every point that they are lowered means that there should be more jobs. This has not happened. In addition, with Canadian corporate tax sinking ever lower, Canada's economy should be correspondingly stronger. However, economists agree that the Canadian economy has, in fact, grown weaker, even after years of taxpayer-funded corporate JC Vallance subsidies. Fernie, B.C. Just recently, for instance, Canada experienced “negative growth” for the fourth quarter running and in 2014 dropped to 15th in global competitiveness from 9th in 2009, according to the World Economic Forum index. As Montreal investment company MRB says, the $83 billion gifted to corporations over recent years by the Harper government, and now squirreled away in Luxembourg or in George Town, Grand Cayman, should with have been re-invested. MRB suggests in MLA technology — a proven Bill Bennett economic driver which 1. Those of us in the Kootenays who either work in the could have yielded 150,000 jobs for mining industry or have friends and family who do so know Canadians. that a new mine is a big deal. Silvertip just got approval The unpalatable to develop its high-grade, silver-lead-zinc deposit in facts for the Harpers Northern B.C. and Sawchucks of this world are that, when 2. The Silvertip mine represents between 150-200 wellCanada's economy was paying jobs for 20 years. This is on the heels of the at its most productive, in the 1950s and early announcement earlier this month of the opening of the '60s, our corporate Red Chris mine that will employ over 350 for 30 years. tax rate was at its highest ever, and that 3. This is the seventh new mine opened since 2011. Conservative, rightWe have come a long way! wing fiscal competence is an urban myth. Bill Bennett After all, MLA, Kootenay East Conservative PM John www.billbennettmla.bc.ca Diefenbaker had to be

About the new Silvertip Mine...

experiences less profits and perceives the loss is due to the nearness of his competitor, the brick and mortar restaurant owner can elect to improve or change their product to draw a different and/or larger clientele or move to a different location. No brick and mortar restaurant owners, either individually or as a group, however, can alter the bedrock of Canadian principles by pressuring government officials to grant special privileges to remove competitors for any reason. If the City Council should comply with the grievance of the brick and mortar restaurant owners in downtown Fernie in order to prohibit street vendors or any other business so deemed to be in competition with them, the council will have succumbed to a special interest group. The issue is not a debate between the brick and mortar restaurant owners and the street vendors. The issue is about whether or not the City Council will permit a special interest group, the brick and mortar restaurant owners, to persuade the council to exclude the rules of democracy and capitalism/the free enterprise system to benefit special interest. Carolyn Woodfine, Fernie, B.C.

A face in the crowd Sponsored by

& The Free Press If you are the individual in this photo you have won a $10 gift voucher from Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory. Drop into The Free Press office for your prize.

In The Free Press, June 2 article “Kodiak Lounge to be under liquor license regulation” Joe Howse was referred to as the co-owner of Raging Elk Hostel. This information is incorrect. Howse is the sole owner of the Raging Elk Hostel, a seperate business from the Kodiak Lounge.

Thank You Out of the Box: A Dumpster Art Project would like to extend their thanks to all who made this year’s event a success!

A special thanks to: Courtney Baker City of Fernie Resort Municipality Initiative Vanessa Croome Gail Adams Columbia Basin Trust Julie Comete Southeast Disposal Samantha Lloyd Fernie Fix Oz Parsons Royal Hotel Denise Baughan Jim Paul Sarah Pike DJ JayRay Fern Marriot DJ Ash Mayor Mary Giuliano And to all our amazing Artists! Aidan Lindsay, Scott Cable, Sasha Potter, Troy Cook, Peggy Black, Brina Schenk, The Fernie Academy, Teresa, Ava and Sara Lewis, Brandi and Gianna Campisi, Fernie Rangers.

Thank you for all your support and we look forward to seeing everyone next year!

www.thefreepress.ca

THE FREE PRESS Thursday, July 9, 2015

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Around the Valley

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

Mondays

Tuesdays

• 9:00 to Noon – Red Cross Swim at Fernie Aquatic Centre • 9:00 to 8:00pm – Fitness Centre open at Fernie Aquatic Centre • 9:00 to 8:00pm – Public Swim and Lane Swim at Fernie Aquatic Centre • 9:30 to 10:15am – Aquafit at the Elkford Aquatic Centre • 10:30 to 11:15am – Gentle Fit at the Fernie Aquatic Centre • 10:30 to noon – $3.00 Swim at the Elkford Aquatic Centre • 11:00 to 1:00pm – Lane Swim at the Sparwood Pool • 11:15 to noon – Storytime (ages 3-5) at the Fernie Library • 1:00 to 2:30pm – Lanes and Leisure at the Sparwood Pool • 1:30 to 2:30pm – Water Walking at the Sparwood Pool • 3:00 to 5:00pm – Waterslide at Fernie Aquatic Centre • 3:45 to 4:45pm – Swim Club at the Elkford Aquatic Centre • 5:00pm – Ladies Night at Mountain Meadows Golf Club in Elkford • 5:00pm to dark – Men’s Night at Sparwood Golf Club • 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 • 8:00 to 9:00pm – 14+ Swim at the Sparwood Pool

Wednesdays

• 6:30 to 8:00am – Early Bird Swim at the Sparwood Pool • 8:00 to 9:30am – Lanes and Leisure at the Sparwood Pool • 8:30 to 9:15am – Gentle Fit at the Sparwood Pool • 8:30 to 9:15am – Active Fit at the Fernie Aquatic Centre • 9:00 to Noon – Red Cross Swim at Fernie Aquatic Centre • 9:00 to 8:00pm – Public Swim and Lane Swim at Fernie Aquatic Centre • 9:00 to 8:00pm – Fitness Centre open at Fernie Aquatic Centre • 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 – $3.00 Swim at the Elkford Aquatic Centre • 11:15 to noon – Toddler Time at the Fernie Library • 12:00 to 1:00pm – Lane Swim at the Sparwood Pool • 12:00pm - Fernie Rotary Meeting Park Place Lodge • 3:00 to 5:00pm – Waterslide at Fernie Aquatic Centre • 3:45 to 4:45pm – Swim Club at the Elkford Aquatic Centre • 4:00 to 5:30pm – Public Swim at the Sparwood Pool • 5:00pm to dark – Ladies Night at Sparwood Golf Club • 5:30 to 6:30pm – Lane Swim at the Sparwood Pool • 8:00 to 9:00pm –14+ Aquafit at the Sparwood Pool

Thursdays

• 3:00 to 5:00pm – Waterslide at Fernie Aquatic Centre • 3:45 to 4:45pm – Swim Club at the Elkford Aquatic Centre • 5:00pm – Ladies Night at Mountain Meadows Golf Club in Elkford • 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 9:00pm – Public Swim at the Sparwood Pool • 7:00pm – Darts at the Sparwood Legion • 7:30 to 9:00pm – Women & Men’s Night at Old School Boxing • 8:00 to 9:00pm – 14+ Swim at the Sparwood Pool

Fridays

• 6:30 to 8:00am – Early Bird Swim at the Sparwood Pool • 8:00 to 9:30am – Lanes and Leisure at the Sparwood Pool • 8:30 to 9:15am – Gentle Fit at the Sparwood Pool • 8:30 to 9:15am – Active Fit at the Fernie Aquatic Centre • 9:00 to Noon – Red Cross Swim at Fernie Aquatic Centre • 9:00 to 8:00pm – Public Swim and Lane Swim at Fernie Aquatic Centre • 9:00 to 8:00pm – Fitness Centre open at Fernie Aquatic Centre • 9:30 to 10:30am –Aquafit at the Sparwood Pool • 9:30 to 10:15am – Aquafit at the Elkford Aquatic Centre • 10:30 to 11:15am – Gentle Fit at the Fernie Aquatic Centre • 10:30 to noon – Lanes and Leisure at the Sparwood Pool • 10:30 to noon – $3.00 Swim at the Elkford Aquatic Centre • 11:00am – Nine & Dine at Sparwood Golf Club • 11:15 to noon – Toddler Time at the Fernie Library • 12:00 to 1:00pm – Lane Swim at the Sparwood Pool • 3:00 to 5:00pm – Waterslide at Fernie Aquatic Centre • 3:45 to 4:45pm – 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 - Public Swim at the Elkford Aquatic Centre • 6:30 to 9:00pm – Public Swim at the Sparwood Pool

• 7:00pm – Jam Night every 2nd Friday at the Sparwood Legion • 8:00 to 9:00pm – Teen/Adult Swim at the Elkford Aquatic Centre

Saturdays

• 9:00am to 12:30pm - JaffrayBaynes Lake Market at Baynes Lake Comm. Centre • Noon to 6:00pm – Fitness Centre open at Fernie Aquatic Centre • Noon to 6:00pm – Public Swim and Lane Swim at Fernie Aquatic Centre • 1:00 to 2:00pm – Lane Swim at the Sparwood Pool • 1:00 to 5:00pm – Waterslide at Fernie Aquatic Centre • 2:00 to 3:00pm – Family Swim at the Sparwood Pool • 2:30 to 5:00pm – Public Swim at the Elkford Aquatic Centre • 3:00 to 5:00pm – Public Swim at the Sparwood Pool • 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

Sundays

• Noon to 6:00pm – Fitness Centre open at Fernie Aquatic Centre • Noon to 6:00pm – Public Swim and Lane Swim at Fernie Aquatic Centre • Noon to 1:00pm – Lane Swim at the Sparwood Pool • 1:00 to 2:00pm – Family Swim at the Sparwood Pool • 1:00 to 5:00pm – Waterslide at Fernie Aquatic Centre • 1:30 to 2:30pm – Family Swim at the Elkford Aquatic Centre • 2:00 to 4:00pm – Public Swim at the Sparwood Pool • 2:30 to 5:00pm – Public Swim at the Elkford Aquatic Centre • 4:00 to 5:00pm – Lane Swim at the Sparwood Pool • 5:00 to 6:00pm – Lane Swim at the Elkford Aquatic Centre • 5:00 to 6:00pm – Kayaking at the Sparwood Pool • 7:30pm Alcoholics Anonymous Meeting, Christ Church Anglican, 591 4th Ave. Fernie

UPCOMING EVENTS July

11 11 11 11-12 11-12 16 16 17 18 19 22 23 25 26 29 30 30

SCOTT Thursday Night Race #2 Fernie Alpine Resort (FAR) Avalanche City Roller Girls vs. Dam City Rollers Fernie Arena Lost Boys Lungbuster – MTB Hill Climb & Uphill Run (FAR) Sparwood Legion Golf Tournament Sparwood Golf Club Club Championship Fernie Golf & Country Club Kootenay Rockies Enduro Series Tony Servello Senior Open Fernie Golf & Country Club SCOTT Thursday Night Race #3 Fernie Alpine Resort (FAR) Felted Pictures Ages 12 -16 Fernie Arts Station He/She Tournament at Mountain Meadows Golf Club Elkford Sunday Social – 2nd Ave – Fernie’s Got Talent & Dog Days of Summer Wednesday Concert Series – Downtown Fernie – Cam Penner SCOTT Thursday Night Race #4 Fernie Alpine Resort (FAR) Griz Kidz Summer Carnival Fernie Alpine Resort (FAR) Sunday Social – 2nd Ave – Sports Day Wednesday Concert Series – Downtown Fernie – Highlife Band SCOTT Thursday Night Race #5 Fernie Alpine Resort (FAR) Opening Reception: New works by The Visual Arts Guild Fernie Arts Station 7pm

August 1 2 5 5 6 7-8 8 8 8 8-9 9 11

Porky Blue Ride – visit www.fernietrails. com for details Sunday Social – 2nd Ave – Artsy Fartsy Wild Nature Tours Hike – Heiko’s Trail/ Island Lake Lodge 7am Wednesday Concert Series – Downtown Fernie – Slocan Ramblers SCOTT Thursday Night Race #6 Fernie Alpine Resort (FAR) Wapiti Music Festival Annex Park Wild Nature Tours Hike – Fernie Ridge Wildflower Walk www. wildnaturetours.com 36th Annual He & She Tournament Fernie Golf & Country Club Highline 100 at Koocanusa/South Country Area Men’s Open Tournament at Mountain Meadows Golf Club Elkford Bibbity Boppity Boo Children’s Festival at Rotary Park Ladies Open Tournament at Mountain Meadows Golf Club Elkford

THE FREE PRESS Thursday, July 9, 2015

r e m Sum

e n e c S

Mountain Market makes its mark Annual summer market kicks off

you by o t t h g u o br rnie BC

e th Ave, F 500 1622 – 7 250-423-5 m o .c ie n rnfer stweste e .b w w w

What’s H OT

OUNTAIN FERNIE M

LODGE

By Sarah Kucharski Free Press Staff

nie’s newest Dumpster art! Check out Fer Art Project is dumpster art. The Dumpster Commerce part of the Fernie Chamber of Sunday Summer Social!

-B

i f in te

Kitchen always open

Fun at Night

B ou

ti q u e

Patio & ive L Music

Thursday - Sunday Wilde Roots Duo play live 8pm Friday - Stacey Chambers plays live 8pm NewSunday Summ-e$10 r MeBBQ nu$5 Cocktail DJ Beats 6-9pm Monday - $6 meals all day & night Serving Lunch Dinn er readings from 8pm Wednesday& - Tarot Book Infi nitea for your Private Functions infinitea@mail.com Patio Lic enced Noon untilemail: 10pm Located on 5th St downtown Located on 5th St. downtown Fernie

Custom Tea Ice-Cr eam

When you look good, we look good!

READY FOR A CHANGE?

Marlene Shears - Master Stylist Keeping up with Current Trends

The summer schedule for the annual Mountain Market kicked off on Sunday, July 5. Continuing every Sunday throughout the summer, Fernie’s Rotary Park will see stalls lining its green grass and trees and customers lining up to get their hands on vendors’ goods. Prominent selling points are fresh, locally grown fruit and veggies as well as food stalls and trucks like Yama 2 Go and Vietnamese spring rolls. “This will be our 15th year for the Mountain Market, and we are so excited for another amazing season,” said Mountain Market coordinator Sandra DaCosta. Other draws to the market are handcrafted jewelry and clothes as well as art capturing the beauty of Fernie. This year’s Mountain Market made its initial debut during a special showing at the

Stanford Hotels & Resort

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Chicken Malai Kebab 6 pieces ............ $12.95

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Prawn Tandoori 6 pieces ............ $11.95

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Wednesday: Thursday: Friday:

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One Samosa, veggie or meat ..... $8.95

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Aloo Tikki 2 pieces ............... $9.95 Your choice of a glass wine (Merlot/Recolte Blanche) or a pint of Fernie beer

100 Riverside Way | Fernie BC | Toll Free 1-877-423-5600 | 250-423-5000 info@ferniestanfordresort.com | www.stanfordresorts.com

Fernie Canada Day event on Wednesday, July 1. The regularly scheduled market will take place every Sunday beginning at 10 a.m. throughout the season.

Best Bevvies This week’s recommended beer is North Vancouver’s Green Leaf Brewing Co Bitter Leaf IPA which is a crisp refreshing beer that pairs perfectly with a BBQ’d steak.

Drink recommendations are from Brigid Cook, the manager of Spirits Cold Beer & Wine Shop at the Park Place Lodge

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THE FREE PRESS Thursday, July 9, 2015

www.thefreepress.ca

Elk Valley locals proudly celebrate Sparwood By Sarah Kucharski Free Press Staff

he Sparwood Aquatic Centre opened its doors to host the district's annual Canada Day celebrations on Wednesday, July 1. A train took children and their parents for a ride around the outdoor track, while a number of bouncy castles and activities kept attendees entertained indoors. Mini golf, statue building and throwing games were just some of the activities children celebrating Canada Day got to enjoy. Coun. Jenna Jensen handed out root beer floats by donation, fundraising for the Sparwood Skate Park Project, as well as assisting Coun. Brad Bowen and Coun. Lois Halko in handing out Canada Day cupcakes and cake to everyone. Smokies, chips and pop were also sold with funds raised going towards the Early Childhood Development Committee's Toddler Park Project. The Sparwood Fire Department also brought children along for a ride around the neighbourhood on the district’s fire truck.

(Left to right) Londyn Freiheit, 6; Brooklyn Freiheit, 2; and Ava Degrazio, 4 enjoy Canada Day cupcakes at the Sparwood celebration. Photo by S. Kucharski

A train took adults and children alike around the outdoor track. Photo by S. Kucharski

District of Sparwood Coun. Lois Halko helps to cut the Canada Day cake. Photo by S. Kucharski

(Left to right) Kierra Kinch, Kaley Marshall, Emma Harrington and Vicki Scarpelli helped lead the crowd gathered at the Sparwood Aquatic Center in a singing of O’Canada. Photo by S. Kucharski

Elkford By Sarah Kucharski Free Press Staff

anada Day celebrations in Elkford were enjoyed under the summer sun just outside the Elkford Aquatic Centre. Attendees helped themselves to a free family barbecue, which was served by youth representatives Miss Elkford Nicole Klein and Elkford Princess Elli Takenaka. Children enjoyed a bouncy castle and face painting from PT the Clown while Canada Day cupcakes were available for everyone to taste. Elkford councillors as well as Mayor Dean McKerracher were in attendance to sing the national anthem O’Canada alongside residents. “I think the event just gets bigger every year,” commented McKerracher on the turn out for the celebration. An afternoon of free swimming followed the outdoor activities.

Ava VanRywsyk, 4, had her face painted for Canada Day. Photo by S. Kucharski

PT the Clown provided facepainting for all children in attendance at Elkford’s Canada Day celebrations. Photo by S. Kucharski

Silas Wildeman, nine months, proudly wears his patriotism. Photo by S. Kucharski

Youth representatives Miss Elkford Nicole Klein (left) and Elkford Princess Elli Takenaka assisted in the Elkford Canada Day festivities. Photo by S. Kucharski

www.thefreepress.ca

148th Canada Day Fernie

PUBLIC HEARING NOTICE - BYLAW 2602 & 2603 Bylaw Amendment - Elk Valley Zoning Bylaw

Bylaw No. 2603 cited as “Regional District of East Kootenay – Elk Valley Zoning Bylaw No. 829, 1990 – Amendment Bylaw No. 76, 2015 (Bryant Rd. / Burnett)” will amend the designation of part of Lot B, District Lot 3047, Kootenay District, Plan EPP4094, from RR-8, Rural Residential (Country) Zone to RR-4, Rural Residential (Hobby Farm) Zone. A public hearing will be held at:

Hosmer Community Centre Front Street & 6th Avenue Hosmer, BC Thursday, July 23, 2015 at 7:00 pm

The Board has delegated the holding of this hearing to the Directors for Electoral Area A and the District of Sparwood. If you believe that your interest in property is affected by the proposed Bylaw, you may prior to the hearing: • inspect the Bylaw and supporting information at the RDEK office in Cranbrook from 8:30 am to 4:30 pm Monday through Friday, excluding statutory holidays; • mail, fax or email written submissions to the addresses/numbers shown below; or • present written and/or verbal submissions at the hearing. Submissions cannot be accepted after the public hearing. All written submissions are public information pursuant to the Freedom of Information and Protection of Privacy Act. This notice is not an interpretation of the Bylaw. For more information, contact Tracy Van de Wiel, Planning Technician, at 250-489-0306, toll free at 1-888-478-7335, or email tvandewiel@rdek.bc.ca.

Photo by K. Dingman

Composting Workshops Want to learn HoW to compost? The RDEK is hosting Composting Workshops over the next few weeks. The Workshops are just $20 and include a FREE COMPOSTER.

Tuesday, July 14/15 6pm to 7:30pm

Fernie rotary park - 6th street & 5th street Mayor Mary Giuliano (left) presented F.I.R.E. founder Grace Brulotte (right), pictured with her mother Janice Brulotte (middle) with the City of Fernie and Fernie Chamber of Commerce Junior Achievement Award. Photo by K. Dingman

Regional District of East Kootenay

Bylaw No. 2602 cited as “Regional District of East Kootenay – Elk Valley Official Community Plan Bylaw No. 2532, 2014 – Amendment Bylaw No. 1, 2015 (Bryant Rd. / Burnett)” will amend the designation of part of Lot B, District Lot 3047, Kootenay District, Plan EPP4094, from RR, Rural Resource to LH, Large Holdings.

The Creative Energy Arts Factory danced during the Fernie Canada Day celebration.

ernie's Canada Day festivities kicked off on the morning of July 1 with the annual Cardboard Boat race, followed by the singing of O'Canada, three dances hosted by the Creative Energy Arts Factory and the Pet & Bike Parade. Visitors enjoyed Canada Day cake, handed out by Mayor Mary Giuliano, in addition to an Old School Boxing Demo at 7:15 p.m. Several local vendors set up shop, including

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The Regional District of East Kootenay (RDEK) Board of Directors is considering an amendment to the Elk Valley Zoning Bylaw. If approved, the amendment will change the designation of part of the subject property to enable a boundary adjustment subdivision to improve an adjacent farm operation and leave the subject part of Lot B, Plan EPP4094 as a 5.2 ha residential parcel. The subject land is located at 6888 Bryant Road, 5 kms east of Fernie, as shown on the attached map.

Competitors raced across Maiden Lake on the morning of July 1 as part of the annual Cardboard Boat Race. The Canadian Tire team took first place. Photo by K. Dingman

By Katelyn Dingman Free Press Staff

THE FREE PRESS Thursday, July 9, 2015

Yama 2 Go Sushi, and the Fernie Mountain Market hosted their kick off to their weekly Rotary Park market. In between live performances, put on by various local groups and touring groups, including Sun K and The Burn Ins, Giuliano presented Fernie Adaptive Ski Program F.I.R.E. founder Grace Brulotte with the Junior Achievement award, presented annually to an individual who shows dedication in the community. At approximately 11 p.m. fireworks lit up the night sky as locals roared with excitement, concluding the evenings Canada Day festivities.

Thursday, July 16/15 6pm to 7:30pm

sparwood spray park - red cedar crescent

Must be pre-registered Guest presentation by Groundswell. Pre-registration is required by July 13 for the Fernie Workshop and July 15 for the Sparwood Workshop. To register, call the RDEK at 888-478-7335 and ask for Lukas or Rhiannon.

19 - 24th Avenue South, Cranbrook BC V1C 3H8 Ph: 250-489-2791 • 888-478-7335

www.thefreepress.ca

THE FREE PRESS Thursday, July 9, 2015

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Right on the corner... Right on the price! Deferrals up to 6 months are available on vehicles that qualify OAC.

Go to www.ferniechrysler.com and check out the inventory Jimmy Heller

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Aaron Young

Sales Manager

OAC, rates are subject to change. Plus $399 documentation fee, government tax, applicable levies and fees. Vehicles may not be exactly as shown.

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THE FREE PRESS Thursday, July 9, 2015

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CONNECTION

CITY OF FERNIE BRITISH COLUMBIA

City of Fernie CONNECTION | Community Information and Opportunities | www.fernie.ca Pesticide Use Control Bylaw No. 2093, 2010

City Council Meeting Schedule

Just a reminder to everyone, the use of pesticides is prohibited on City-owned and residential property in the City of Fernie.

July 2015 5 12 19 26

6 13 20 27

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

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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 am-4 pm (Closed statutory holidays) After Hours Phone: 250.423.4226

Fernie Aquatic Centre

250 Pine Avenue Phone: 250.423.4466

Fernie Memorial Arena 1092 Highway 3

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

Campfire & Fireworks Ban Effective Noon, Friday, July 3, 2015 the City of Fernie, Fire and Emergency Services prohibits all campfires (including all firepits) and fireworks within the City boundary due to hot and dry conditions and to help prevent humancaused wildfires and protect public safety. This ban is in effect until further notice. The Southeast Fire Centre also reminds the public that anyone found in contravention of a fire prohibition may be issued a ticket for $345, required to pay an administrative penalty of $10,000 or, if convicted in court, fined up to $100,000 and/or sentenced to one year in jail. If the contravention causes or contributes to a wildfire, the person responsible may be ordered to pay all firefighting and associated costs. To report an illegal fire in the City of Fernie boundary call 250-423-4226 or to report a wildfire or unattended campfire outside the City boundary call 1-800-663-5555 toll-free or *5555 on a cellphone. For all fire related emergencies please call 911.

The City of Fernie Pesticide Use Control Bylaw No. 2093, 2010 regulates the use of non-essential pesticides within the City. The purpose of the bylaw is to reduce the amount of pesticides used for non-essential purposes on outdoor plants and grass, maintaining outdoor trees, shrubs, flowers, turf or other ornamental plant. Some pesticides are still permitted under this bylaw, to learn more see Bylaw No. 2093 at www. fernie.ca and to get a list of pesticides that you can still use or contact bylaw@fernie.ca.

Notice of Proposed Property Disposal (Land Exchange) (Pursuant to Section 26 of the Community Charter) Notice is hereby given that the City of Fernie intends to dispose of municipal property to Montane Developments Ltd., Inc. No. BC0936724 under the terms of Land Exchange Agreement between the City of Fernie and Montane Developments Ltd., Inc. No. BC0936724. Under the terms of the Land Exchange Agreement, the following City owned properties located near Whitetail Drive would be transferred in fee simple to Montane Developments Ltd., Inc. No. BC0936724 after statutory pre-requisites under the Community Charter have been satisfied: 1. Parcel Identifier: 029-574-803, That part of District Lot 4589, Kootenay District, shown as Closed Road portion “A” on Plan EPP50690; 2. Parcel Identifier: 029-574-811, That part of District Lot 4589, Kootenay District, shown as Closed Road portion “B” on Plan EPP50690; and 3. Parcel Identifier: 029-574-820, That part of District Lot 4589, Kootenay District, shown as Closed Road portion “C” on Plan EPP50690. The above properties would be consolidated with lands owned by Montane Developments Ltd., Inc. No. BC0936724. In exchange Montane Developments Ltd., Inc. No. BC0936724 would dedicate as park to the City of Fernie an equal area of land as delineated on the attached Sketch Plan prepared by WSP. The total area of land being disposed of by the City is approximately 798.7 square metres and the total area acquired by the City is approximately 798.6 square metres. For more information contact Jim Hendricks, Chief Administrative Officer by telephone at 250423.2225 or by email at jim.hendricks@fernie.ca. A copy of the Land Exchange Agreement may be obtained from the undersigned. Jim Hendricks, Chief Administrative Officer This is the first of two notices, dated this 9th day of July, 2015.

Notice of Annual General Meeting Monday, July 13, 2015 The Annual General Meeting for the City of Fernie to receive submissions and inquiries from the public respecting the 2014 Annual Municipal Report will be held on Monday, July 13, 2015 at 7:00pm. in the Council Chambers at City Hall, 501 3rd Avenue, Fernie, BC. The 2014 Annual Municipal Report is available on June 29, 2015 for public inspection on the City’s website at www. fernie.ca or a hardcopy of the Annual Municipal Report may be reviewed at City Hall during regular office hours. The Annual Municipal Report contains the 2014 audited annual financial statements; a listing of the permissive tax exemptions granted and the amount of property taxes that would have been imposed on the property if it were not exempt for 2014; a report respecting municipal services and operations for 2014; a progress report in relation to the objectives and measures established in the 2013 Annual Report for the 2014 fiscal year; and a statement of municipal objectives, and the measures that will be used to determine progress respecting those objectives for the current and following year. Anyone wishing to provide their comments to Council but are unavailable to attend the meeting on July 13, 2015 are encouraged to submit their comments in writing by any of the following methods: • • • •

In Person: Drop off written submissions at the reception desk, City Hall 501–3rd Avenue; By Fax: to (250) 423-3034; By Mail: City of Fernie, Director of Corporate Administration Services, PO Box 190, Fernie BC V0B 1M0; or By Email: E-mail submissions should be sent to cityhall@fernie.ca

The deadline for written submissions is 4:00PM on MONDAY, JULY 13, 2015. 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 Corporate Administration Services at 250.423.6817 or via email at cityhall@fernie.ca.

City Hall Summer Hours Residents are advised that City Hall located at 501 – 3rd Avenue will be on summer hours effective Friday, July 3, 2015. Hours will be from 8:00am - 4:00pm, Monday through Friday (excluding statutory holidays). Have a Safe & Happy Summer!

Leisure Services Happenings Interested in becoming a lifeguard? The Fernie Aquatic Centre is hosting a Bronze Medallion Course, July 13 – 17 and Bronze Cross Course July 27 – July 31 both course run daily 9:00am-5:00pm. These courses focus on managing spinal injuries, leadership skills, and preventing the loss of life while developing stroke endurance and fitness training skills. The prerequisite for this course is 13 years of age. These courses are a main requirement to become a National Lifeguard. Contact the Fernie Aquatic Centre at 250 423 4466 if you have any questions. Adventure Camps / Swim Lessons Looking for a little fun this summer? Check out the Fernie Aquatic Centre’s week long Adventure Camps or Swim Lessons. Swim lessons run Monday to Friday mornings all summer long. The full day swim and play camps include Red Cross Swim lessons, crafts, games, and outdoor activities for ages 5-6 and 7 -12 years of age. Please call 250 423 4466 to register for Camp or Swim Lessons. Fernie Memorial Arena The arena is open for Dry Pad Rentals until August 1, 2015 and will reopen for Ice Rentals on August 10, 2015 at preseason rental rates. Contact Leisure Services for details 250 423 2245. Employment Opportunities The Fernie Leisure Services Department is now accepting applications for the following positions. Aquatic Slide Attendant: (Regular Part-time, Unbenefited, No Guaranteed Hours) Candidate must have the following current awards: Bronze Cross; Standard First Aid and CPR ‘C’ (or equivalent). Additional aquatic orientated qualifications will be considered an asset to this position. Must be 15 years of age or older at time of hire. Detailed applications marked “Aquatic Slide Attendant” are to be submitted to the undersigned no later than 4pm local time, Friday, July 10, 2015. Ticket Taker/Skate Monitor (Arena) The Regular Arena Season starts in September and extends to March, dependent upon program attendance. This is an unbenefited position, with a wage rate as per the CUPE Collective Agreement. A probation period of 60 days is required. Persons applying for this position must be available to work evenings and weekends. Duties and Responsibilities: The Monitor/Ticket Taker is responsible to the Director of Leisure Services. Principle responsibilities include the taking of admission fees and/ or tickets during public skating sessions and to ensure that the skating sessions are operated in a safe and enjoyable manner. Detailed applications containing resume and references are to be submitted to the undersigned by 4:00 p.m. Friday, July 17th, 2015. Applications for either of these positions should be addressed to: Leisure Services Department, Ken Kreiger/Acting Director of Leisure Services City of Fernie, P.O. Box 190 Fernie, BC V0B 1M0 Fax: (250) 423-6608 Telephone: (250) 423-2245 Email : ken.kreiger@fernie.ca Or dropped off at City Hall 501 – 3rd Avenue or Leisure Services 401 – 4th Avenue

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THE FREE PRESS Thursday, July 9, 2015

www.thefreepress.ca

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

www.sparwood.ca

Upcoming Meetings of Council (in Council Chambers)

Monday, July 20

Monday, August 17

Regular Meeting at 7:00 pm

Nuisance Mosquito Control Program

The District of Sparwood has operated a Nuisance Mosquito Control Program for over 20 years. This is a ‘nuisance’ mosquito control program to control the mosquito larvae under a Pesticide Management Plan, approved by the Province of BC. The goal of the Nuisance Mosquito Control Program has been to reduce their numbers to tolerable levels using integrated pest management measures. Adult mosquito control is not part of the program.

For the past four years the District of Sparwood has contracted Culex Environmental Ltd. to carry out the Nuisance Mosquito Control Program using an environmentally sensitive approach. With close monitoring and surveillance of mosquito development sites, Culex Environmental Ltd is able to treat these areas with larvicide containing naturally occurring soil-bacteria known to be specific to mosquito larvae. A qualified treatment team will be making ground-based and aerial applications to ensure optimum results. To report instances of nuisance mosquitoes, please fill out the online form at www. sparwood.ca/mosquito or contact the District of Sparwood at sparwood@sparwood.ca or 250.425.6271. Please include your name, instance location, and contact information when reporting instances of nuisance mosquitoes. For more information about the program or how to take personal precautionary measures, visit the District of Sparwood website at www.sparwood.ca/mosquito.

Are You Parked Legally?

In order to provide the safest environment possible, the District of Sparwood would like to remind all vehicle owners to be aware of where they can and cannot park.

When parking, be sure you aren’t obstructing the view of nearby crosswalks and stop signs as this could pose a threat to pedestrians and people driving by. Curb sides that have been painted yellow are prohibited to park by, as well as the marked disabled parking spots, unless you have the proper permit to do so. Vehicle owners can park for a maximum of 24 hours on public streets and parking lots before being penalized.

Failure to comply with this bylaw may result in a ﬁne, or your vehicle being towed under the Sparwood Trafﬁc, Parking and Highways Regulation Bylaw No 472, 1987.

To report a possible violation or ﬁnd out more about your responsibilities, please contact the District of Sparwood Ofﬁce at 250.425.6271.

• • • • • • • • • •

Mosquito Control Tips

Get rid of old tires, tin cans, buckets, drums, bottles, or any water holding containers Fill in or drain any low places (puddles, ruts) in yard Keep drains, ditches, and culverts clean of weeds and trash so water will drain properly Cover trash containers to keep out rain water Repair leaky pipes and outdoor faucets Empty plastic wading pool at least once a week and store it indoors when not in use Make sure your backyard pool is properly cared for while on vacation Fill in tree rot holes and hollow stumps that hold water with sand or concrete Change the water in bird baths and plant pots or drip trays at least once a week Keep grass cut short and shrubbery well trimmed around the house so adult mosquitoes will not hide there

Yard Waste Compost Sites

Compost, yard waste, and lawns are all organic substances, and they all factor "organically" into the District’s waste reduction program. Examples of organics include the grass on your lawn, sod, tree leaves, blooms and leaves from your garden ﬂowers, fruit or vegetable plantings. NO household garbage, recyclables, branches or trees. There are two convenient sites located in the community for citizens to dispose of their yard waste. They are located by the: 1. In lower Sparwood by the Fire Hall recycling area; and 2. Sparwood Heights next to the ball ﬁelds.

Your yard waste should be in a compostable yard waste bag or left loose. If you use plastic bags, please empty at the receptacle. Leaving litter, garbage, refuse or other waste material on private or public property makes the community look dirty and unhealthy. Litter Control Bylaw No. 421 helps keep our community and public areas clean. Bylaw Enforcement Officers are authorized to enforce the litter control regulations within the bylaw for the amounts defined in the Municipal Ticket Information Bylaw for noncompliance. If you wish to report a violation or find out more about your responsibilities, please visit the District’s website at www.sparwood.ca or contact the Bylaw Enforcement Officer at 250.425.6820 or by email at bleo@sparwood.ca.

Help us keep Sparwood attractive and safe.

HELP MAKE SPARWOOD MORE AGE-FRIENDLY An age-friendly community is one that supports and enables older people to ‘age actively’ – thatATTEND is, to live in security, enjoy good health and continue to participate fully AN AGE-FRIENDLY CONVERSATION in society. An age-friendly community not only improves the quality of life for seniors, it also creates a moreSESSION inclusive, safe and community for everyone, including COMMUNITY SESSION (OPTION 2) COMMUNITY (OPTION 1) accessible people with disabilities and families with young children. ALL AGES WELCOME! ALL AGES WELCOME! Thurs,about June 25 (from 1- 2:30and pm)desires for (from 6 - 8of pm) We want to Wed, hearJune from24residents all ages and abilities their needs at the Seniors Centre at the Seniors Centre aging in Sparwood, today or in the future. Complete and submit a survey by July 15 for a chance to win one of two $75.00 Overwaitea gift certificates. Take the survey on line at We encourage to register for the Community Sessions by JuneCentre, 19th to the Leisure Bit.ly/Sparwood or paper you copies are available at the Seniors Drop-In recoffice@sparwood.ca but drop-ins are also welcome. Centre, the District Office, or by email at recoffice@sparwood.ca

Sprinkling Regulations

As a reminder, the District of Sparwood sprinkling regulations are in effect from June 1 through September 30 each year, to promote water conservation.

Even numbered addresses can water on even calendar days, and odd numbered addresses can water on odd calendar days. Homes with automatic irrigation systems can water daily, provided it is between 12:00 am and 6:00 am. Exceptions to sprinkling restrictions include nurseries, golf courses, farms, turf and tree farms, municipal parks, playing ﬁelds, and other municipal properties. There will be special permission for those residents who have installed a new lawn (either seed or sod) for a period of 21 days after installation of the lawn.

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Arts&Entertainment WhatsOn THE FREE PRESS Thursday, July 9, 2015

What’s on in the Elk Valley this week.

One man’s trash, is another man’s art

CAN’T MISS

Dumpster Art Project returns to Fernie

Fernie Academy students participated in the Dumpster Art Project. Photo by S. Kucharski

By Sarah Kucharski Free Press Staff

umpsters lined 6th Street in Fernie last weekend, drawing the attention of all who passed. Not due to their odour, but their beautiful new coat of paint. Eight artists and the community itself applied their skills to dumpsters donated to the vibrant second annual Dumpster Art Project. Organizer Courtney Baker first envisioned the event a few years ago and was encouraged by Mayor Mary Giuliano to move forward with it. “It’s really great having the city’s support on something like

this and it’s a way for people who might not normally get involved with public art to get involved,” said Baker. She added, “It’s great because groups can do it too, as well as people of any age and artistic ability ... It takes something normally not lovely, like a dumpster, [and turns it] into something accessible and beautiful.” Artists ranged from the current such as Aidan Lindsay whose works were on display at Inside Out Fernie Wellness last month, longtime muralists Troy Cook, and relative artistic upcomers Scott Cable and Sasha Potter. Lindsay’s dumpster was transformed by her theme of imagination, featuring two children looking into their cloudy subconscious of possibilities on her dumpster’s front. “It’s a good different and it’s a really fun challenge working on a dumpster versus a normal canvas. Your perspective needs to be so different,” said Lindsay. Cook and his niece Lania took to their dumpster with a plethora of pink, multiplying designs of pink bunnies and rockets on their metal canvas. “I haven’t done civic art in awhile so I just wanted to take part in something like this,”

said Cook. For his design, Cook said he just wanted to paint things he liked. Others employed a more spiritual artistic approach, like Cable, a growing artist over the last two years. “I really wanted to show my work more as an artist and get my work out there, this seemed like a really great opportunity,” he said. Cable and Potter’s work included a galactic, starry sky, and a meditating figure. Between the two of them, well over 20 hours of painting was put into their dumpster.

The Free Press book review Memory Man - David Baldacci

Submitted by Adrienne Raczki

brain-altering football tackle in his National Football League (NFL) debut has left Amos Decker with a gift, and a curse. Years later Amos has parlayed his hyper-amnesia into a successful career as a detective with the Burlington Police Force. After wrapping up a case, Amos returns home to find his

family murdered, sending his life into a downward spiral, which culminates in his eventual homelessness. A year later, a vagrant wanders into the precinct and confesses to the Decker family murders, and across the small town, tragedy strikes yet again. Amos uses his amazing memory to slowly unravel these concurrent

crimes, all the while battling his own lack of social graces and habit of stepping on toes. This is a gripping crime novel, with little romance or sugar coating to cloud the excitement. David Baldacci has written a killer novel of a small town tragedy turning one loner cop into the key component in two murder investigations.

For all of your personal, commercial or industrial automotive repair needs!

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250-425-6535

Now hiring for service, parts and warehouse. PLEASE DON’T DRINK & DRIVE

Fernie Memorial Arena:

Avalanche City Roller Girls Roller Derby. 6:30pm The Avalanche City Roller Girls hit the track for their second home game of the season versus the Dam City Rollers from Castlegar. Doors open at 6:30pm, game starts at 7pm.

July

Women’s ‘Get Into It’ Mountain Bike Camp:

July

11-12

9:00am - 1:00pm Looking to improve your skills, increase your confidence, and spend time with like-minded women? Call 250-423-3650 for more information or to register. Minimum participants: 4. Group size: 6 - 7 students.

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 served.

Space donated by The Free Press

ELK VALLEY Libraries FERNIE PUBLIC LIBRARY

ELKFORD PUBLIC LIBRARY

SPARWOOD PUBLIC LIBRARY

592 - 3rd Ave. 250-423-4458

816 Michel Rd 250-865-2912

110 Pine Ave. 250-425-2299

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

Mon. Closed

Mon. Closed Tues.-Wed. 10am-5pm Tues. 10am-8pm Thurs.-Fri. 11am-6pm Wed. 10am-5pm Thurs. 10am-8pm Sat. 12-5pm Fri.-Sat. 10am-5pm Sun. Closed Sun. 12-4pm

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250.423.4458 • fhlprogrammer@gmail.com • fernie.bclibrary.com

A16

THE FREE PRESS Thursday, July 9, 2015

faces of the valley

Kim Serwatkewich – An entrepreneurial spirit By Jennifer Cronin Free Press Staff

Kim was born in Coronach, Sask. to Earl and Iris McPeek. At the age of six, the journey to Fernie began. As an entrepreneur, Kim’s father followed his dreams, which took the family to Regina, North Battleford, Camrose, Leduc and Edmonton, arriving in Fernie on July 1, 1971. Kim speaks of her father with admiration as she recalls his jobs that ranged from Ross Thatcher’s campaign manager to starting a lumber business. When the family settled in Fernie, her dad bought a cement plant, but got out in the 1980s, as no one was building at the time. He subsequently ran a restaurant at what is now the Raging Elk Hostel, purchased the old Motor Inn, and tackled other endeavours. The oldest of five girls, Kim recalls her first impression, as a 13-yearold, of Fernie, “I thought I was being punished. With no buses, malls and no track and field at the high school, it was trauma. It was a long time until Fernie felt like home. I always expected to move again.” The family initially took up residence at the Fernie campground, living in a U-Haul. “We cooked on a campfire. I thought we were camping,” Kim shared, “When I became an adult I realized we had actually been homeless!” Eventually the family settled in Fernie. In 1972, Kim met her nowhusband Len who had come from Saskatchewan to work for her father in the construction business, arriving by bus from Ituna. During a trip to Rossland in 1978 Kim and Len eloped. Meanwhile, back at home, Kim’s mom Iris had gone berry picking and got lost in the bush. As there was no point in searching in the dark, it wasn’t until the next morning that Iris was found, only to be greeted by the news that her daughter was married. Kim had a variety of jobs before settling on hairdressing. She attended school in Nelson in 1977. Upon her return, Kim apprenticed and learned the barbering trade from Doug the Barber. In 1985 she bought her own business. On New Year’s Eve 1986, Kim and Len welcomed their only child, daughter Chantal who Kim refers to as “a gift.” Two months after Chantal’s arrival, Kim returned to work. Soon after, Len secured a position as a Heavy Equipment Operator for the City of Fernie. Trying to find the perfect location for her business, Kim test-drove a number of spots before buying her shop, Mirror Images, on 7th Avenue. After six months of renovations, she opened the doors in 1998. She continues to work in the shop and presently is a representative for both Scentsy and Norwex. Kim feels the changes to Fernie have made the town “prettier,” increasing the property values, but she said she feels saddened when she looks at its future. “Tourism is good to a certain degree, but it doesn’t pay well, and with the cost of living, our kids cannot afford to live here. There have been schools closed, and now there is a baby boom, and soon there will not be enough schools.” She went on to say that she feels that the charm of Fernie was that of a heritage town, and now this is being forgotten. In the past 44 years, Kim’s perspective of Fernie has changed. “Every time I leave and return I breathe a sigh of relief as I come down the valley and see the mountains,” she noted. With Len’s retirement imminent at the end of August, Kim shares, “I would really like to sell the business and perhaps work for someone else a few days a week. It is time to look after myself.” Kim and Len will continue to spend time at Lake Koocanusa where they have had their trailer for over 20 years. As a business owner, and her father’s daughter who is never afraid to try new things, Kim Serwatkewich is an entrepreneurial “face of the valley.”

www.thefreepress.ca

Toronto group brings the sun on Canada Day Fernie, featuring songs from their debut album Northern Lies. “We’ve never been here before [but] we heard really good things,” lead singer and guitar player Kristian Montano said, adding that the group recently befriended local group Shred Kelly. “They’re great guys and girl. They always talk about how great Fernie is and we jumped at the chance to come here and play.” The group played five songs during their afternoon performance, featuring their popular hit “Cowboys and Drugs” – a song the group renamed as “Cowboys and Pugs” for their younger Canada Day crowd. “When you have little kids dancing that makes it that much better,” keyboard and trumpet player Stuart Retallack said of the group’s afternoon performance. Sun K’s album Northern Lies was released on March 12 and the band has been touring the country since, with recent stints in Vancouver and Kelowna. “The special thing about Sun K’s lead singer Kristian Montano performed during Fernie’s this album is that it’s unlike Canada Day celebration. Photo by K. Dingman anything that we’ve done before because it’s the By Katelyn Dingman only album we’ve done,” Free Press Staff Retallack joked, adding in a “We’ve never been [to more serious tone, “We’ve he young and fresh Fernie] before but we heard heard great things. We’re Toronto folk n’ roll really good things.” just trying to keep on going bank Sun K had around the country and tour youngsters flailing their Kristian Montano [the album].” arms and stomping their Sun K lead singer The group played a full feet at the Fernie Canada setlist later in the evening, Day celebration on July 1. featuring between 10-12 As part of their Western songs off their Northern Lies album. Skis summer tour, Sun K played two sets in

Coming Soon! Did You Know?

Helping to Prevent Compulsive Internet Usage

July 7th - August 21st Ages 6-12 Tuesday - Friday 10:00 - 12:00 For more information call 250-425-2299 or join us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/ sparwoodlibrary

It is estimated that 1 in 8 Americans are struggling with some sort of compulsive internet use. With Facebook, Twitter, and online video games the speed, ease of access and immediate feedback technology provides can be in itself an extremely rewarding habit. To help us perhaps we can pay attention to some common signs: • Internet usage is interfering with your child’s sport, family dinner or school. • Your child appears exhausted and doesn’t go to bed when they normally would. • Poor focus on homework long enough to finish without logging on to the computer. • Losing interest in things that excite them, such as playing outside or with friends. • If your child becomes abnormally irritated when you try to cut down internet time. By limiting the time our children spend online we can help to keep usage under control. The American Academy of Paediatrics suggests a daily limit of two hours of screen time. It is important that as parents we lead by example and not spend hours on the computer when children are home or constantly be updating Facebook during family time. Some games are designed to never shut off such as reality based games as there is always someone online somewhere in the world ready to play. By recognising the signs of excessive compulsive internet usage and taking some simple steps as precautions we can ensure our children develop responsible internet usage and an overall healthy online experience.

Adapted from ‘Is Your Child Addicted to the Internet?’ By Abigail L. Cuffey. Sourced from www.womensday.com East Kootenay Addiction Services Society has sponsored this column. The intent of this column is to provide information and to encourage healthy choices. Free, confidential services are available to anyone dealing with their own or someone else’s substance addiction or misuse. For more information contact 250-423-4423, 1-800-644-6144 or visit www.ekass.com

www.thefreepress.ca

THE FREE PRESS Thursday, July 9, 2015

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Bringing prescriptions closer to home Elkford Drug Store opens after decades with no local pharmacy

Opened on April 22, the Elkford Drug Store provides locals with over-the-counter medications in addition to prescription medications. Photo by K. Dingman

Elkford Drug Store owner and pharmacy manager Ahmed Elmaddah wanted locals to have easier access to medications. Photo by K. Dingman By Katelyn Dingman Free Press Staff

lkford recently welcomed Elkford Drug Store with open arms. Opening on April 22, patients are pleased to have access to owner and pharmacy manager Ahmed Elmaddah’s services. “Part of the healthcare system is to have a doctor, a pharmacy and a nurse. [In Elkford] this link was not complete,” Elmaddah said. “A pharmacist has a role in explaining drugs and medications. This kind of input is important for patients in any community.” After a friend recommended Elkford as a small community in

need of a pharmacy, Elmaddah he said, noting that he previously packed his bags and moved across worked in the small community the country from Hamilton, ON. of Port Hardy, B.C. “ I like small With a total communities of 13 years where it’s easy “Part of the health care of pharmacy to do activities experience, like hiking.” system is to have a including With acres doctor, a pharmacy and previously upon acres of a nurse. [In Elkford] this working as b a c k c o u n t r y, link was not complete.” pharmacy Elmaddah is manager, a in luck when Ahmed Elmaddah pharmacist it comes to Elkford Drug Store owner and and a relief finding places pharmacy manager pharmacist, to hike in Elmaddah Elkford. enjoys being As for why he in a small wanted to open community. his own pharmacy, Elmaddah “I know how things are in explained, “I just wanted to open small communities and I like it,” my own place and implement my

The

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own policies.” Currently the pharmacy only has two employees, Elmaddah and his assistant Angela Gostick. Open Monday to Friday from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. and on Saturday from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. the Elkford Drug Store provides patients and customers with over-the-counter medications, vitamins, first aid supplies, dental products and prescription medications. In addition, locals have access to counseling and medication reviews, which entails having the pharmacist go through all the patients medications and advising them on when and how to take them. In terms of future plans for the pharmacy, Elmaddah said, “I’m

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planning to expand more with the front store stuff and getting more products to provide customers with a better selection.” Elmaddah said he also plans to get his diabetes certification, which would allow him to effectively counsel diabetic patients. But for now, the new pharmacist is still getting settled in the Elkford area. With the store directly off Highway 43, it is visible and easily accessible to customers. For more information on the Elkford Drug Store, call Elmaddah at 778-521-5181 or stop into 4 Front St., Suite B, Box 370.

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www.thefreepress.ca

THE FREE PRESS Thursday, July 9, 2015

Heat stress warning for WorkSafeBC employees By Katelyn Dingman Free Press Staff

ith temperatures ranging from the low to high-thirties forecasted in parts of the Kootenay region last week, WorkSafeBC is warning employers and workers of the increased risk of developing heat stress and heat stroke symptoms. “Workers in the construction, transportation and forestry sectors comprised the majority of the 27 time-loss claims we had in B.C. last year,” WorkSafeBC’s Regional Prevention Manager, South Okanagan-Kootenay Shawn Mitton said. “It’s important to remember anyone working outside is potentially at risk.” Symptoms of heat stress include excessive sweating, nausea and dizziness and, if not addressed quickly, additional symptoms such as heat cramps can rapidly develop.

WorkSafeBC is advising employers and workers to drink one glass of water every 20 minutes, wear light-coloured, loose fitting clothing made of breathable fabric, take rest breaks in a cool well ventilated area, allow your body to cool down before restarting your work, do the hardest physical work during the coolest part of the day and recognize the signs and symptoms of heat stress. As appropriate, heat stress assessments are being conducted by WorkSafeBC employers, which includes a heat stress mitigation plan, personal protective equipment, education and training in recognizing symptoms of heat stress and heat stroke, and participating in monitoring conditions and checking co-workers for symptoms. WorkSafeBC employers and workers can contact the WorkSafeBC Prevention Line with any questions or concerns at 1-888-621-7233.

A heat advisory was issued last week for all WorkSafeBC employees in the Kootenay region. From The Free Press files.

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

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ALL SIZES • Stream Protection AVAILABLE! • Unstable Ground Support • Custom Water way Drilling & Landscaping

Classes Work Space Paper Crafting Mini Albums Home Decor

Call George 250-423-7040 or e-mail: t4237040@telus.net

PHONE: (250)423-5805 9839 ELK STREET

If your ad was here, it would have been seen by now!

FERNIE BOTTLE DEPOT

Call 250-423-4666 today!

250-423-3530 • 592-8th Ave, Fernie wine@elkvalleywine.com

Elk Valley Thrift Shop Society Thrifting at it’s finest! Phone: 250-425-0853 Town Centre Sparwood

Wilson’s Drill & Blast Service

re e h d a r You

♦ Make your own Craft Wine - Using our Equipment and Expertise ♦ Perfect for Weddings or other Special Occasions ♦ Finish to perfection with Personalized Labels

Adrienne Raczki

Owner/Master Lash Artist 403.719.9873 301-410 1st Ave, NE, Calgary, T2E 0B4

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

We take electronics and ensure they are recycled safely.

Coalminer’s Gallery

Monday to Friday 10 - 4 Saturday 10 - 2

& Picture Framing Ltd.

*Unique Custom Frame & Mat Design *Certiﬁed Professional Framer *YOU NAME IT ~ WE FRAME IT! *25 years serving the Elk Valley

Phone: 1-888-649-5577

All framing services provided coalminersgallery@gmail.com

www.communitylistingservice.com info@communitylistingservice.com Advertising opportunity: - Go to the website / select your province and community - Bookmark it as your Homepage - Sign up – cost is $100 for the whole year - Create your ad – change and update - every day if you like - Advertising like you’ve never used before - Shop local, know local - AND SO MUCH MORE

“Reduce, Reuse, Recycle”

..... connect to your COMMUNITY

• Afﬁdavits • Wills • Contracts

ELECTRICAL CONTRACTING

Dave Sykes 20% Discount for Seniors Commercial & Residential Ph: 250.425.2688 Fax: 250.425.2608

Cell: 250.425.9149 dsykes@telus.net

Know your community: - Go to the website / select your province and community - Bookmark it as your Homepage - Check the weather / check local events - Select a tab and browse - Shopping / dining / schools / real estate / contractors - Volunteer opportunities / recreation - AND SO MUCH MORE

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

• Leases • Real Estate

Business: (250) 425-2114

• Business Transfers

Fax: (250) 425-2204

• Mobile Homes

Toll Free: 1-800-668-7729

• Mortgages

Email: marian@gravellenotary.com

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Recycling to fund summer programs Returnable bottle/can program to benefit Children with Special Needs

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The Elk Valley Society for Community Living has been working on a recycling program. Photo by S. Kucharski

A powerful connection has arrived in Fernie.

By Sarah Kucharski Free Press Staff

he Elk Valley Society for Community Living (EVSCL) has been working with the Regional District of East Kootenay on a recycling program to benefit the environment and children with special needs. Since 1975, the EVSCL has provided a summer program for children. This year, the Summer Program for Children with Special Needs will run from July to August in both Fernie and Sparwood. “We are hoping that the receipts from the returnables will help us fund our Summer Program for Children with Needs,” said EVSCL treasurer and summer program coordinator Gayle Vallance. She added, “This program provides parents with respite and the children with integrated activities over the summer months.” The returnable bottle/can program is currently run at the Fernie Transfer Site where the EVSCL have garbage barrels inside for collection. So far, donations have been received from Home Hardware, Canadian Tire, A-Signs and Overwaitea. The EVSCL is a charitable non-profit organization that has advocated for people with mental and physical challenges since their inception in 1971.

THE FREE PRESS Thursday, July 9, 2015

TELUS Fibre delivers the fastest and most reliable Internet technology * right to your door.

Be one of the first to experience fibre. Call 1-855-595-5588 now or go to telus.com/fernie

TELUS STORES Cranbrook Tamarack Centre

101 Kootenay St. N

717 Industrial Rd. 2

*Traditional copper wire or copper-wire hybrid networks are subject to capacity constraints and environmental stresses that do not affect TELUS fibre optic technology, which is based on light signals. TELUS, the TELUS logo, telus.com and the future is friendly are trademarks of TELUS Corporation, used under licence. © 2015 TELUS.

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THE FREE PRESS Thursday, July 9, 2015

WHEN YOU PAY WHAT WE PAY

IT’S EASY TO GET INTO A FORD

2015 FORD ESCAPE /

STK NT1459

$32,849 EMPLOYEE PRICE $29,755 OR $ 222 BI WEEKLY 84 MONTHS

2015 FORD F150 SUPERCREW XLT / STK NT1486

2015 FORD F350 XLT DIESEL

STK NT1427

14, $ E SAV

MSRP

$44,899 EP $40,153 $298 BW 84 MONTHS

$65,649 EP $50,897 OR $377 BW 84 MONTHS

MSRP

2015 FORD F150 SUPERCREW LARIAT / STK NT1507

1,4 1 $ E SAV

$51,269 EP $41,433 OR $305 BW 84 MONTHS

752

MSRP

2015 FORD F350 LARIAT DIESEL

309

STK NT1478

16, $ E SAV

MSRP

$47,899 EP $43,328 OR $321 BW 84 MONTHS

2015 FORD F150 SUPERCREW PLATINUM / STK NT1493

E SAV

$62,549 EP $51,131 OR $378 BW 84 MONTHS /

STK NT1484

,57 4 $ E SAV

9,83 $ E SAV

2015 FORD EXPLORER /

E$ V A S

MSRP

STK NT1488

,74 4 $ E SAV

4 3,09

MSRP

2015 FORD EDGE /

$76,739 EP $60,430 OR $446 BW 84 MONTHS

MSRP

67 $12,

$71,519 EP $58,845 OR $435 BW 84 MONTHS

2015 FORD F350 LARIAT DIESEL

STK NT1514

441

16, $ E SAV

MSRP

$77,649 EP $61,208 OR $452 BW 84 MONTHS

All payment at 4.99 % interest $0 down calculated on all payments OAC example NT1459 total interest paid for72 months would be $6,394.76 Total payments would be $40,404. 499.00 documentation fees calculated on all payments Conditions apply See the team at Fernie Ford for more details

Visit our new Brenner Road location

NOW OPEN!

New extended hours to serve you better. Monday - Thursday till 7 pm Friday till 6 pm And Saturday till 5 pm

Associated with Legacy Auto Group

250-423-9211

www.fernieford.ca

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THE FREE PRESS Thursday, July 9, 2015

Junior programs can be very beneficial!

s in other sporting disciplines, it is always beneficial to acquire the techniques of golf at a young age. Even though there aren’t many children who have the opportunity to start playing at the age of two, as the illustrious Tiger Woods did, they might as well start off on the right foot. Many golf clubs offer programs for young players. Throughout the summer, children can take lessons during which they’ll become skilled in the basic techniques, participate in tournaments and learn about golf etiquette. Programs usually include weekly clinics allowing them to become familiar with all aspects of a golf game. From analysis of the swing, to drives and different types of chips, young players have the opportunity to develop their skills, to tackle the psychological aspect of the sport and enjoy being in a group. A few tournaments will enrich the learning experience, giving them the opportunity of putting into practice what they have learned and getting a feel for competition. In some clubs, the junior program ends with a tournament where the winners are awarded prizes within the different age categories. As well as giving young people the opportunity to start off on the right foot, the program will ensure future generations of players for the club. Many of these children will want to continue taking lessons for several years and then enrol as adult members. And, when the time comes, they can collaborate by giving lessons themselves. Junior members, who excel at the provincial or national level, also bring a sense of pride to the club who watched them grow up.

A golfer’s nightmare: the sand trap T

he sand trap is the obstacle, often located near a green, so dreaded by many golfers and which can soon ruin a good golf score. Even worse than the big lake on the right or the wooded area on the left, the sand trap, or bunker, represents a real nightmare for many golfers. Because golfers slow their swing for fear of overshooting the green, the ball often falls short and is caught in the bunker. Has that ever happened to you? In order to produce a good shot to get out of the sand trap, a golfer must use a sand wedge. All you have to do is to adopt a slightly open position and to place yourself in such a way that the forward foot is level with the ball. Don’t grip the club too tightly. Open the face of the club and hit about 5 cm behind the ball. At the end of the line, it’s the sand which propels the ball out of the bunker. The rules stipulate that trying a practice shot in a sand trap is forbidden under pain of penalty. On the other hand, if water is present in the trap, the player can, if the ball is in the water, move it out of the water but not in the direction of the hole. As in all aspects of the game, in order to be at ease when playing in a sand trap, don’t hesitate to take some lessons and to practice. A lot of golf clubs have practice areas with a sand trap. And now that you’ve got yourself out of that nightmare, be sure to level the sand with the rake.

Injuries: your worse handicap T

he pros will all tell you the same thing: you have to be in good shape to play golf. Apart from affecting your performance on the golf course, your physical limitations can lead to serious injury. Even though golf is less demanding on the cardiovascular system than activities like hockey, tennis, soccer, or football, it is still very important to prepare for this sport in order to avoid back pain, tendinitis, or muscular pain. Before teeing-off, it is strongly advised to follow a training program. The lower back, wrists, elbows, shoulders, and the torso are the areas of the body most used by a golfer. Training that includes stretching, walking, cycling, and warm-up exercises will help to improve your flexibility and strength. They will also help with your endurance,

an important factor for regular rounds of 18 holes. And don’t hesitate to ask the advice of a golf pro or a physiotherapist about the best posture for a swing. Before each game, take a few minutes to gradually stretch your muscles. Be sure to use suitable equipment; avoid playing with clubs that are too long or too heavy. Because a round of golf represents about 6 km of walking, invest in some good quality shoes, and ensure that your bag isn’t too heavy if you carry it on your shoulders. If you choose a nonmotorized golf cart, it is always preferable to push it rather than pull it. Lastly, don’t forget to drink lots of water and to protect yourself from the sun. Injuries can become your worst handicap when playing golf !

201 Fairway Drive, Fernie - 250-423-7773 Ranked #2 Public Golf Facility in British Columbia

Summer Junior Camps start July 20th Twilight Rates ~ 7 Days/Week $28 for 9 after 5pm and $48 for 18 after 4pm Pro Shop fully stocked! Watch for weekly specials.

Local Rates reduced this year!

$43 – 18 Holes $26 – 9 holes (Mon-Tues)

THE FREE PRESS Thursday, July 9, 2015

Sports

Summer SCOTT race series heats up Fernie Alpine Resort weekly downhill bike race returns for the season

By Sarah Kucharski Free Press Staff

he SCOTT Thursday Night Race Series made their 2015 debut on Thursday, July 2, inviting riders to take part in fun downhill mountain bike races at Fernie Alpine Resort (FAR). Simone Bourassa and Darcy Neniska took top spots in the adult female and male categories respectively. Neniska finished with the overall fastest time, shooting across the finish line at two hours and 10 minutes. Bourassa’s top time for the ladies was two hours and 38 minutes. Now in its thirteenth season, organizer Karen Pepper said that the series is a “fun, yet competitive, gravity-fed race series ... [that’s] a super fun evening for all ages.” The opening race for the season had an

excellent turn out, according to Pepper, with 41 competitors in five categories ranging in age from eight to 55. Weekly draw prizes from sponsors SCOTT and Fox as well as a post-race social at Kelsey’s Restaurant followed the event. Winners in the junior categories were Jacob Rosenegger in the kids male category (ages 8-12), JJ Goodison in the youth male division (ages 13-17) and Derek Bird who clocked in at two hours and 16 seconds for the 40+ group. The course will vary every week. Entry is $5 and participants can register at the Adventure Centre by 6:30 p.m. on race day. The Thursday night series sets bikers down FAR’s trails every week at 7 p.m. An overall series champion will be crowned at the end of the summer once points are tallied from each race.

Locals ride free at FAR Resorts of the Canadian Rockies. Mosteller noted that new summer trails have been introduced as well as a new fficially one week into their summer viewing platform and season, Fernie picnic spot a 20-minute Alpine Resort walk from the top of the “We feel it is vital to give hosted a customer appreTimber Express Chairlift ciation day on Sunday, everyone in the area a at Lost Boys Pass. July 5 — encouraging chance to check out “We have been really locals to take advantage summer operations at working hard on offering of hiking and biking new walking and hiking Fernie Alpine Resort.” trails with free chairexperiences from new lift rides and access for Matt Mosteller trails to programs with Fernie residents. Senior VP Marketing & Resort Nature Bob, as well “Our team is woven Experience, Resorts of the making sure all existing tightly into Fernie and Canadian Rockies trails are signed so guests the Elk Valley and we can experience summer feel it is vital to give mountain time by foot,” everyone in the area a said Mosteller. chance to check out summer operations at FAR is open for summer operations until Fernie Alpine Resort,” said Matt Mosteller, Sunday, Sept. 6. For more information, visit Senior VP Marketing & Resort Experience, www.summer.skifernie.com

By Sarah Kucharski Free Press Staff

An excellent turn out of 41 competitors took to Fernie Alpine Resort’s downhill trails for the SCOTT Thursday Night Race Series opener. Photo courtesy of Fernie Alpine Resort

Sponsored by Submitted by Jill Snell

Rita Jackson Rita Jackson played an excellent game for the Avalanche City Roller Girls (ACRG) on Saturday, July 4. One of the team’s two jammers, Jackson assisted in ACRG’s big win over St. Albert Heavenly City. If you are the athlete in this photo you have won a free pizza from Just Pizza! Drop into The Free Press office to collect your prize. Email your Athlete of the Week nominations to customerservice@thefreepress.ca

Golf Results

Ladies’ day results: June 30, 2015 Regular Event: Flighted low gross 0-24 handicap (Hdcp): Shannon Takacs (who we understand may have played her best round ever) 25-29 Hdcp: Karen Lozza 30-34 Hdcp: Anne Majic 35+ Hdcp: Aysha Haines 0-29 Hdcp Closest to the pin (KP) on 5: Ursula Schroeder 30+ Hdcp KP on 5: Anita Mitchell Deuce pot: Pushes, as there were no deuces on the course this week Skins: Heather Boyd, Patti Vadnais, Kay Chesley Gross quota points: 1st Titia Born, 2nd Shannon Takacs, 3rd Chris Stockey, 4th Christine Stein, 5th Ursula Schroeder, Anne Majic, Arlene Bye, Karen Lozza, Val Emond, Bridget Hemsted, Donna Miller

Attendance prize: Overwaitea - Val Emond Ferne Chiropractic - Deb Then For those who want to get involved in other club events here are some dates to remember:

Saturday and Sunday, July 11 and 12: Fernie Golf and Country Club - Club Championship Friday, July 24: Fernie Golf and Country Club - evening alternate shot event Saturday, August 8: Fernie Golf and Country Club He/She Tournament Tuesday, September 8: Fernie Hosted Ladies Amateur Open and later in the day Golf Fore the Cure

Please call (250-423-7773) or stop by the pro shop at the Fernie Golf and Country Club to register for any of these events.

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THE FREE PRESS Thursday, July 9, 2015

Coal Creek dam removal

Fernie Nordic Society

Threatened fish species’ spawning affected

ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING

The Coal Creek dam was demolished due to its negative effects on local fish spawning Submitted photo

Submitted

The weather is heating up, the water is clear and what’s more refreshing than swimming in clean mountain waters? Clearly Coal Creek is desirable for local swimming, with an elaborate dam in place to raise the water level and create a swimming hole. This may be fun for folks but bad for fish. With low snow and runoff this past winter, when the water drops these types of dams are obstacles to fish. Local fisher John Poirier came by the office the other day and reported a 65 cm, 20 pound bull trout and several Westslope cutthroat trout impounded behind this barrier. “Both of these species are threatened and bluelisted in B.C.,” said Poirier, Director with the Elk River Alliance (ERA). “This dam is diminishing the success of spring spawning cutthroat trout and impairing migration of fish back to the

mainstream of the Elk River.” Later that afternoon, another resident called to report that a bull trout was dead and floating belly up. A few weeks ago, volunteers removed the dam to open up fish passage and this week it was rebuilt. “We aren’t fun wreckers, we just want to make sure fish have passage up and down Coal Creek,” noted Lee-Anne Walker, ERA Executive Director. “These fish are going to be stressed soon with low flows.” “We are so lucky to have clean, clear water to swim in right in town. It is great people are out having fun in the water and spending time near streams and the river. If we love these water bodies, we are more likely to care for them,” said Walker reminding locals that, “We have to remember that fish also depend on these water bodies.” There are provincial and federal laws that protect fish habitat. Legally, to make any modification to the nature of a stream Section 9 approval of the BC Water Act is needed. Federally, the Fisheries Act requires authorization to work in and around water to avoid harmful destruction of fish habitat. The ERA connects people to the watershed keeping it drinkable, fishable and swimmable for future populations. “People have choices about where we swim. Fish need our help to ensure healthy future populations and for the sustainability and productivity of fisheries,” concluded Walker. The public can report violators to conservation officers at the Report All Poachers and Polluters (RAPP) at 1-877-952-7277 (dial toll free for 24 hr service).

Wildlife Corner Submitted by Kathy Murray Wildsafe B.C. Community Coordinator

Fernie Bear sightings have been reported on Ridgemont Lane and Ridgemont Crescent. Please keep garbage indoors until collection day and secure all other attractants (pet food, dirty barbecues, etc). Complying with local bylaws, keeping garbage indoors and securing attractants will benefit all of us and our wildlife. Thanks for your attention to this matter and encourage your neighbours, family, friends and visitors to do the same. Bear sightings also reported on trails, black bear at the top of Red Sonya trail and grizzly bears sightings reported on Lazy Lizard trail and Heiko’s trail. Elk Valley and South Country There have been no reported wildlife sightings but be prepared and expect to encounter wildlife at any time. We live in wildlife country. The safest wildlife encounter is one prevented. Avoid surprise encounters: Call out, clap your hands, sing or talk loudly Look for signs of wildlife: Tracks, droppings, diggings, claw-marked trees, torn-up logs,

overturned rocks and food caches. Travel smart: Stay in groups, stay on marked trails and travel in daylight. Do not litter: Pack it in, pack it out. Carry bear spray: Keep it accessible and know how to use it as your last, best defence. Dog owners: Keep your dogs under control. They may provoke defensive behaviour in wildlife. Cyclists: Speed and quietness put you at risk for sudden encounters. Slow down and make noise. Never approach or feed wildlife Report human/wildlife conflict to 1-877952-7277(RAPP) or #7277 on cell. For more information on preventing human/wildlife conflict visit www.wildsafebc.com

NOTICE OF & MEMBER BBQ

Sunday, July 19, 2015 Elk Valley Nordic Centre

4:30 pm

(between Mt Fernie Provincial Park and The Cedars) Join the FNS members and Board of Directors for a complimentary BBQ starting at 4:30 pm followed by our 2015 AGM

Get The Training You Need For The Job You Want TRAINING FEE SUPPORT PROGRAM Get up to $800 for job training. Contact your local WorkBC Employment Service Centre to discuss your eligibility. For more information, visit cbt.org/tfsinfo. A PROGRAM OF

ADMINISTERED & MANAGED BY

B4Participants THE FREE Thursday, Julycriteria: 9, 2015 must PRESS meet the following eligibility

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• Unemployed • Aged 55 – 64 (in some circumstances, unemployed workers aged 50 – 54 Taorr g65eand t eupd may I n also i t i participate) ative for Older Workers J• o bBe legally entitled to work in Canada Skills Training Opportunity • Require new or enhanced skills for successful integration into new employment Who is this for? • Live in an eligible community/region Participants Who is must thismeet for?the following eligibility criteria: Be ready and committed to returning to work • • Unemployed

• Participants Aged 55 – 64 (in some circumstances, unemployed workers aged 50 – 54 must meet the following eligibility criteria: What will you get? • or 65 and up may also participate) Unemployed • • Be legally entitled to work in Canada Aged 55 – 64 (in some circumstances, unemployed workers aged 50 – 54 may be eligible to receive: • Participants Require new or enhanced skills for successful integration into new or 65 and up may also participate) • employment Class-based skill development – including job searching and career planning Be legally entitled to work in Canada • • Live in an eligible community/region (10 weeks) • Be ready and committed to returning to work Require new or enhanced skills for successful integration into new • • Funding to access training at local educational institutions/trainers What will you get? employment • Income support for the duration of in-class training Participants may be eligible to receive: • Live in an eligible community/region • Targeted wage subsidy for on-the-job training • Class-based skill development – including job searching and career planning • Be ready and committed to returning to work (10 weeks) (4 weeks) • Funding to access training at local educational institutions/trainers will • What Income support for the duration of in-class training When is it?you get? September 8 - Dec 10, 2015 • Targeted wage subsidy for on-the-job training (4 weeks) Participants may be eligible receive: When is it? September 8 - Decto10, 2015 • Class-based skill development – including job searching and career planning (10 weeks) • Funding to access training at local educational institutions/trainers Funded by the Governments of Canada and British Columbia • Income support for the duration of in-class training through Targeted Initiative forand Older Workers Funded by thethe Governments of Canada British Columbia • 250-423-4691 Targeted wage subsidy for on-the-job training • www.cotr.bc.ca/Fernie • fernie@cotr.bc.ca through the Targeted Initiative for Older Workers (4 weeks) the Fernie campus today! When is it? Contact September 8 - Dec 10, 2015

250•423•4691 • www.cotr.bc.ca/fernie • fernie@cotr.bc.ca

Funded by the Governments of Canada and British Columbia through the Targeted Initiative for Older Workers Contact the Fernie campus today! 250•423•4691 • www.cotr.bc.ca/fernie • fernie@cotr.bc.ca

KYLE KYLE HAMILTON HAMILTON PHOTOGRAPHY PHOTOGRAPHY 250 250423 4230904 0904 www.kylehamiltonphotography.com www.kylehamiltonphotography.com

School district calls changes to School Act “undemocratic” By Sarah Kucharski Free Press Staff

hanges made to the School Act, specifically the introduction of Bill 11, have drawn criticism from School District 5 (SD5) — citing the changes as a threat to the democratic process of education. Following its implementation into legislature on May 14, Bill 11 makes several amendments to the School, Teachers and Advanced Education Statutes Amendment acts that have drawn opposition from school boards, including local SD5. A key change that has sparked criticism is the shift of power to close a school or sell the property it is built on from local Boards of Education to the Minister of Education, Peter Fassbender. On this change, SD5 Chair Frank Lento said, “The decision to close a school or sell school property [used to rest] with the local Board of Education, an elected body which is required to consult, in good faith, with their community prior to decisionmaking. The recently amended School Act gives the Minister of Education the sole authority to direct a district to close a school or sell a property —without ever setting foot in the community.” He added, “Our Board believes that Bill 11, by transferring important decision-making powers to a single individual in Victoria, is a direct threat to [the Board of Education’s] democratic rights and expectations. Changes to the School Act dilute the decision-making powers of locally-elected Boards of Education while providing broad and unprecedented powers to a sole individual, the government-appointed Minister of Education.” Lento also argued that leaving teachers out of the amendment discussions is a problem in and of itself. According to Lento, the B.C. School Trustees’ Association made requests prior to the bill’s introduction into legislation to play a role in consulting on the bill. “The request went unheeded,” said Lento in a statement. SD5 decided at their June 9 board meeting to send Premier Christy Clark as well as Fassbender a letter expressing the board’s dissatisfaction with Bill 11’s passing. According to the Ministry of Education, the amendments

The introduction of Bill 11 has drawn criticism from local School District 5. Submitted photo

are meant to “help school districts reduce overhead costs, establish a modern framework for teacher professional development and put a stronger focus on accountability for student outcomes.” Accountability for student’s education and improvements to ongoing professional development for teachers were highlights made by Fassbender. “The proposed amendments to the Teachers Act will provide the minister with the authority to establish a more robust framework. Working with the profession, the goal is to enhance public confidence that certified teachers have access to, and are regularly participating in, high-quality professional development aimed at improving student achievement,” read a statement from the ministry. Fassbender said, “Most professions — such as lawyers, accountants, or nurses — set detailed standards for ongoing learning. Early childhood educators have clear requirements. It’s time to put teaching on a similar footing.” To read Bill 11 in its entirety, visit www.leg.bc.ca/40th4th/1st_ read/gov11-1.htm.

Sparwood family installs common grave plaque By Sarah Kucharski Free Press Staff

Sunday Summer Social July 19 * starting at 1:00 pm The Fernie Chamber of Commerce invites you to the

Discover 2 Avenue Summer Social nd

Food Passport and Retail Bingo

Use your completed passport and bingo cards to enter the draw for one of four prize packages. OTHER ACTIVITIES INCLUDE: • Bouncy House • Face Painters • Giant Chess AND OTHER KID ACTIVITIES FOR MORE INFORMATION VISIT

/SUMMERSOCIALS

Want to get involved in Discover 2 Avenue Summer Social Food Passport and Retail Bingo, contact members@ferniechamber.com nd

FernieCHAMBER OF COMMERCE

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Serving the Elk Valley and Area for 21 years. 250-425-6226 or 250-433-1085 250-425-4771 602 Pine Ave on Highway #3 crowsnestproperties@hotmail.com

t’s been a two-year wait, but a Sparwood family has finally made peace with their father’s death after laying him to rest alongside his late wife at Rivercrest Cemetery. The Cederholm family originally made a request to Sparwood council in January 2015 to inter the cremated remains of their father, Ken Cederholm, alongside their mother Joan in a common grave. Since November 1999, the common grave has housed 16 unclaimed and unidentified cremated remains at Rivercrest. With no legend or mapping to accompany the grave and time disintegrating the paper identification tags of the bagged remains inside, the Cederholms were unaware until last year that Joan was one if the interred 16. Now, after two years of exhumation and cemetery bylaw waivers, Ken and Joan are at rest together alongside 15 othersπ. The Cederholm family also generously offered to pay for a commemorative grave marker plaque that would list the names of all those interred in the common grave. “We would like to thank all the people who have made this possible over the last two years,” said daughter Karen Dixon.

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THE FREE PRESS Thursday, July 9, 2015

Thank You Thank You to our teams: Credit Union Crusaders Elk Valley Hopscotch Mafia Elkford Secondary School Ignited Spirits It's All About The Beads! Sparwood Walk Stars Team Causeway The Royal Rascals WAC PAC wild wally women

Top Fundraiser:

Our Entertainers:

Margaret McKie

Top Team Fundraisers: Sparwood Walk Stars

Top Youth Fundraiser: Ayden Tomera

DJâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Terry & Lorna Markus Liebe, Jeannette Marasco, Brian Mundy & Harold Schwindt Bryce Gorman Tyrone Glover Ethan Musil & Joe Plessis Jesse Sutherland Karen Sheets Robin Regular

The Canadian Cancer Society extends a big Thank You to our sponsors for supporting the continues success of your Relay For Life Event Sponsors:

Sparwood Lions Club Sparwood Futures Society

Community Sponsor: Overwaitea Fernie Alpine Resort

Media Sponsors: B 104 The Drive The Free Press

Community Supporters:

Hot Gossip Buds & Bloom District of Sparwood District of Elkford 279 Elk Valley Royal Canadian Air Cadets Squadron Coal Miner Days Society MacDonalds Angie Palmer & Jamberry Nails Starbucks The Brick Cranbrook Sparwood Chamber of Commerce Est. 1898

The Canadian Cancer Society extends a special Thank You to the Relay Committee for your invaluable passion and dedication in planning & promoting the event. Thank You to our event day volunteers, members of the community that came out to the event, donors, sponsors and supporters! A personal fight against cancer takes courage. A communityâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s fight takes commitment. The Elk Valley 2015 Relay For Life raised $28,705 and counting. Thank You all for your generous donations and commitment.

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THE FREE PRESS Thursday, July 9, 2015

Jaffray student’s art recognized Lions Club annual Peace Poster contest returns

able to provide them with the opportunity to share their visions,” Haarstad said. ayda Anselmo, a Grade 6 student at Jaffray Elementary Anselmo’s poster will advance to face stiff competition Junior Secondary School (JEJSS) has taken the first step to throughout the district, including multiple international becoming an internationally recognized artist by winning rounds of competition if she is to be declared the international a local competition, sponsored by the Sand Creek Lions Club. grand prize winner, Haarstad said. Anselmo‘s poster was among more than 400,000 entries One grand prize winner and 23 merit award winners will submitted worldwide in the 28th annual eventually be selected. Lions International Peace Poster Contest. The grand prize includes a cash award of Lions Club International is sponsoring “Our club is cheering $5,000, plus a trip for the winner and two the contest to emphasize the importance of family members to an award ceremony. The for Jayda as her poster world peace to young people everywhere. 23 merit award winners will each receive a advances in the compeThe 12-year-old from Jaffray said the certificate and a cash award of $500. tition.” theme of her poster was, “If there is peace “Our club is cheering for Jayda as her in your heart, there can be peace in your poster advances in the competition, and Dean Haarstad home, if there is peace in your home there we hope that her vision will ultimately Sand Creek Lions Club can be peace in your community, if there be shared with others around the world,” Safety Poster Chairman is peace in your community there can be Haarstad said. peace on earth!” Locally, Anselmo and 18 other students The poster was selected by a panel of the were honoured for their participation by Sand Creek Ladies Lions for its originality, the Sand Creek Lions Club on June 22 at JEJSS. artistic merit and portrayal of the contest’s theme “share To view international grand prize and merit award winners, peace.” visit www.lionsclubs.org. Sand Creek Lions Club safety poster chairman, Dean Lions Clubs International is the world’s largest service club Haarstad said he was impressed by the expression and organization with 1.36 million members in more than 46,000 creativity of the students in Mrs. Bock’s Grade 5-6 class from clubs in 210 countries and geographic areas. JEJSS. In addition to its efforts towards conquering blindness, the “It is obvious that these young people have strong ideas organization has made strong commitments to community about what peace means to them. I’m so proud that we were service and helping youth throughout the world. Submitted

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Students from Mrs. Bock’s Grade 5-6 class at Jaffray Elementary Junior Secondary School participate in the 28th annual Lions International Peace Poster Contest. Grade 6 student Jayda Anselmo won the local branch of the competition. Photo by D. Haarstad

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THE FREE PRESS Thursday, July 9, 2015

Avalanche City skates to heavenly win

Roller girls roll over St. Albert derby team 338-72

By Sarah Kucharski Free Press Staff

he Avalanche City Roller Girls (ACRG) skated circles around the St. Albert Heavenly Roller Derby League in a home game match on Saturday, July 4. The home team had several jamming plays and led St. Albert the entirety of the game, culminating in a 338-72 win. By the second half buzzer, ACRG had hit the triple digits with no intent of stopping. Tripling their score by the end of the night, ACRG co-captain Jessica DeGroot said, “Our strategy for the game was to go hard and get ahead as much as possible, really widen our lead and keep going from there.” Points were split fairly evenly between lead jammers Andrea ‘Jenna Jammerson’ Gignac and Rita ‘Meter Maid’ Jackson. “Our jammers have really excellent endurance and were out there scoring points for us so consistently and well, it was a really great game for us,” noted DeGroot.

DeGroot also credited keeping their opponents’ scores down with their diamond defense strategy. “It’s something we’ve been practicing really hard for awhile and we’ve been working hard to truly perfect this move and I think we pulled it off well,” she said. Along with their abundant point scoring, the ACRG were also subject to numerous penalties. During the game’s second half, two ACRG skaters Melissa ‘Faye Tality’ Masin-Robinson and Crystal ‘Jetta’ Hudson were pulled from the track for going over the sevenpenalty limit. “We don’t normally see that many penalties in a game against us. Referees can come from all over and sometimes you know them and sometimes you don’t. We agreed with some, but we definitely don’t normally see that high of a penalty count in a game,” said DeGroot. The ACRG will play a final home game against the Dam City Rollers from Castlegar on Saturday, July 11 at the Fernie Memorial Arena. The girls get rolling at 7 p.m. and doors open at 6:30 p.m.

Jacqueline Appelbee Fieldhouse (left) and Dawn Deydey (background) skate over to assist Melissa Masin-Robinson (foreground) and Jess DeVotchka (midground). Photo by W. Bruns

ROLLER DERBY

Last home game of 2015!

VS. Jammer Rita Jackson (center) goes shoulder to shoulder with a Heavenly Roller skater. Photo by W. Bruns

Do you know someone who is having a birthday this coming week?

Let us know who it is, and we will share it in next week’s edition! Local Birthdays July 11 Tammy Haarstad July 15 Curtis Enns Marie Worthington

Do you know someone who has an upcoming birthday? Just email their name and birth date (no year required) to Jen at customerservice@thefreepress.ca or call 250-423-4666 and we will publish it in The Free Press

Celebrity Birthdays July 9 Tom Hanks, 58 July 10 Jessica Simpson, 34 July 11 Richie Sambora, 55 July 12 Bill Cosby, 77 July 13 Harrison Ford, 72 July 14 Jane Lynch, 54 July 15 Forest Whitaker, 53

Saturday, July 11

Doors at 6:30 pm • Game at 7 pm Fernie Memorial Arena $10 Adults $5 Students/Seniors Ages 12 and under free Beer garden • Concession

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TOMBOSSO: The family of the late Dean Robert Tombosso announce his sudden death on Friday, June 26, 2015 at the age of 57 years. Dean was born in Fernie on May 25, 1958 to parents Al and Janet Tombosso. He was the happiest with a fishing rod in one hand, and a gold pan in the other. Dean is at peace now. Waiting for him on the other side is his father and grandparents, welcoming him with open arms, to a new life of sunshine, lollipops and rainbows. He leaves behind the “apple of his eye”, daughter Terilyn, his mother, his sisters and families. “Do a good turn for someone … It may change their lives forever.” Memories & condolences shared at cherishedmemoriesfs. com Arrangements entrusted to Cherished Memories Funeral Services Ltd.

e would like to express our sincere appreciation to everyone who has been so kind, helpful & caring kind, helpful & caring to Angelo & I during his hospitalization to Angelo & I during his hospitalization starting starting with Dr. McBeath, the paramedics & medical staff, with Dr. McBeath, the paramedics & medical staff, the nursesand and Father Marcel Cote.Cote. the nurses Father Marcel To our friends Bill & Christine Fleming and Minnie for Minnie visiting, for To our friends Bill & Christine Fleming and driving and supporting us and to all others who to phoned visiting, driving and supporting us and all others & offered help. who phoned & offered help.

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Cards of Thanks e are grateful for the many kindnesses shown by so many during the past month after the sudden passing of Jim. Special thanks to Tom & Diane Slywka for their immediate assistance when Jim needed it. We are proud of the first responders and police who work in our community. They served us well. So many neighbours and friends brought food and assisted in many other ways to help us through a very difficult time. We are grateful for your care and compassion. We also thank those who made charitable donations in Jim’s memory. It is very comforting to us to live in such a caring community. Kathy, Blake & Brent Rybachuk & Family

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WWW ALZHEIMERBC ORG For Rent: Elkford Immaculate 2 bedroom condo in a quiet, secure building. This end unit is bright and airy. $800. rent includes hot water. Looking for a long term quiet renter, with references. Please no pets, and no smokers. Contact 250-425-6512 or mebellerby@telus.net Available immediately New condos in Sparwood Heights 2 bed/2 bath units are $1100. per month. 2 bed/1 bath units $1050. 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 Sparwood 1 bdrm condo, @ Mtn. Air Chalets - furn or not inc util, W&D, w/deck, no pets, $700 + DD Call 403-616-6467 or 403-474-3926.

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10 Mountain View - Nice 2 bedroom, 1 bath mobile home with large yard. $900 per month plus utilities. Please call Rick 250-425-5432 or Erin 250-425-7711 or email

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Homes for Rent Sparwood 2 houses for rent 3 bedroom with full basement $650 & $800 p/m plus utilities. Available April. 1 Call Erin @ 250-425-7711 or Rick @ 250-425-5432

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Community Newspapers Weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re at the heart of thingsâ&#x201E;˘ LIVE IN YOUR OWN PARK Long term lease: Beautiful Home on 5 acres with gorgeous views. 7 min. from downtown Fernie. Cable, Wi-Fi, Gas, school bus, privacy $2,500/M + utilities. Available SEPT 1. Call 250-423-5518

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THE LUCKIEST SIGNS THIS WEEK: LIBRA, SCORPIO AND SAGITTARIUS

ARIES (March 21 - April 19)

You have the great idea of spending your vacation at home. You’re sure to feel like redesigning the flowerbeds and the landscaping. This will take up your entire vacation.

wifi available

1221A 7th Ave., Hwy. 3 Fernie • Beside ReMax

BRAIN GAMES ACROSS

1. Cradle cry 5. Festive celebration 9. Feat 12. Part of a molecule PUZZLE NO. 769 13. Rams’ companions 14. Salary 15. Space 16. Small duck 17. BPOE member 18. Brussels ____ 20. Sell 22. Sibling 24. Approval 28. Daddies 32. Single entity 33. Miss 35. Grade 36. Lukewarm 38. Aristocracy 40. ____ clock 42. Money man 45. Not obvious 50. Smashing serve 51. Past curfew 53. Elaborate solo 54. Leaders 55. Nights before holidays 56. Sly gaze 57. Allow Copyright © 2015, Penny Press 58. Parking-lot mishap

CROSSWORDS

TAURUS (April 20 - May 20)

Don’t forget your list before going to the grocery store, or else you’ll have to go back for it. You initiate lots of conversations. Some people are very stubborn with you.

GEMINI (May 21 - June 21)

You calculate and recalculate your vacation budget. However, as some details are always forgotten, be prepared to spend a bit extra rather than having to sacrifice some activities.

CANCER (June 22 - July 22)

Your sense of initiative is remarkable. You create opportunities and exploit them to their full potential, both at work and elsewhere. You’re overflowing with energy.

LEO (July 23 - August 22)

You prepare your budget before going on vacation and tend to agonize over the cost of living. Where emotions are concerned, love always comes knocking when you least expect it.

59. Minus

DOWN

1. Damages 2. At the summit of 3. Anchor 4. Bullets, for short 5. Obtaining 6. Astound 7. Bounded 8. Dozing 9. Imitated 10. Hail 11. Toddler 19. Employ 21. Movie-rental choice 23. Barren 24. Mowed 25. Buck

26. Pinch 27. Twig 29. Amigo 30. Gallery showing 31. Earth’s upper atmosphere 34. Least binding 37. Had a fight of honor 39. “____ Are My Sunshine” 41. Desire strongly 42. Scoop out water 43. Complexion woe 44. Lofty home 46. Bat’s target 47. Pine, e.g. 48. Tells a whopper 49. TV’s rabbit ____ 52. Bo’s number

ANSWER/LAST WEEK - PUZZLE NO. 768

VIRGO (August 23 - September 22)

You feel extremely sociable. This is the time to relax a bit where work is concerned. Take longer lunch breaks in order to socialize more with your colleagues or employees.

LIBRA (September 23 - October 22)

You may end up using your vacation to complete personal projects at home and professional ones for work. Don’t forget to get some rest as well.

SCORPIO (October 23 - November 21)

The joys of life dominate your week, and there are lots of opportunities to party. You start choosing what you want to read during your next vacation. The choice won’t be easy.

SAGITTARIUS (November 22 - December 21)

You feel the need for a change. In fact the timing seems perfect. You take advantage of your vacation to implement your business projects or start looking for a better job.

CAPRICORN (December 22 - January 19)

You attend conferences and participate in some major negotiations. You get tired of having to do everything at home. You resort to drastic measures to change certain habits.

AQUARIUS (January 20 - February 18)

You might feel some worry when you go on vacation; you have stay in touch with the office because of some outstanding issues. Where love is concerned, someone new keeps you waiting.

PISCES (February 19 - March 20)

You manage to finish all your work before going on vacation. Avoid improvising at this time of year, as all the best places could be fully booked. Make your reservations this week.

PUZZLE NO. 505

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 ANDREA HORTON advertising@thefreepress.ca 250-423-4666

B11

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Celebrating Tourism

For the love of Fernie

If one thing is clear these days itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s that the world is changing at an unprecedented rate. Globalization, shifting economies and increasing competitiveness are simply a fact of the new millennium.

approximately19,254 tourismrelated businesses, employing about 132,000 people (DBC, 2013). With this expansion and growth of the tourism industry, governments and private industry around the world are seeing the value of

by Mike McPhee Marketing Director Island Lake Lodge Photographer/Writer

Communities across B.C. and North America have realized that having a diversified economic base is one of the keys to long-term stability and greater overall success. Fernie is fortunate to have the mining and forestry industries as major economic drivers, and it is also lucky to have a robust tourism economy. Tourism is one of the largest industries on the planet contributing about 9.1 per cent of GDP and one in 11 jobs globally (UNWTO, 2014), sustained worldwide growth rate of 4.0 per cent to 4.5 per cent is set to continue through 2015 and beyond. In Canada, tourism is worth approximately $78.8 billion. In B.C. it is worth about $13.9 billion and here in the Kootenays about $1.3 billion. In B.C. there are

tourism in a new light. Shifting economic trends are pushing destinations to enhance, build and market their local tourism industries like never before. Fernie is the envy of many towns across North America, as we have a fairly diversified economy already. We have more desirable tourism amenities than many places and these are true assets to the economy and community as a whole. From a world-class ski hill, to hiking and biking trails, to fly-fishing and the historical downtown, Fernie has a solid mix of offerings. In addition to recreation, there are a great blend of retail, restaurants, arts and culture. These amenities are not only attractive to the visitor, but add to the overall quality of life for all that live here. Fernie has been recognized

...having a diversified economic base is one of the keys to long-term stability... by the province as a Resort Municipality and through this designation, receives a fair bit of extra infrastructure money. The projects that have benefited from these funds enhance the community overall and will be enjoyed for many years to come by locals and visitors alike. Our local Destination Marketing Organization Tourism Fernie, is working hard to keep this part of the local economy prosperous and healthy. This is an important task, as the tourism industry becomes a more competitive place in the new economic landscape we live in. Staying top of mind with visitors, potential investors, other industries and government is advantageous for a host of reasons. Though tourism is just one of our local economic pillars, its substance and growing potential are incredibly important. All in all I hope that we can join together as a community and celebrate our tourism industry and its assets as a substantial part of our economic mix and valuable part of our cultural DNA.

Top: On the deck at Island Lake Lodge; middle: Heikoâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Trail, one of Fernieâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s many premier hikes; bottom: fishing the Elk Valley. Photos by Mike McPhee

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Turbocharging tourism: Canada - open for business

The Canadian Chamber of Commerce _______________________________________________ Uh-oh! Canada’s economy shrank by 0.6 per cent in the first quarter. Consumers stopped spending, business investment is in retreat and inventories are piling up. Wouldn’t it be great if we could get foreigners to come spend money here in Canada? That’s why tourism is one of the top priorities of the Canadian Chamber of Commerce. We need it now more than ever. The Governor of the Bank of Canada warned that Canada’s first quarter would be “atrocious” and he was right. Consumers have put their credit cards away and spending barely grew, at just 0.1 per cent. More importantly, the hit from falling oil was severe as business investment fell by 2.5 per cent and support activities for the extraction sector plummeted by 30 per cent. With a weak domestic economy, Canadian business increasingly needs to look for opportunities in international markets. Thank goodness Canada’s second largest export industry is tourism because it is gaining strength! It also benefits restaurants, retailers and so many more companies that don’t export. Tourism is a huge industry, larger than agriculture or the auto sector. It supports 170,000 small and medium-sized businesses across the country, contributes over $88 billion to the Canadian economy

and generates over 627,000 jobs. It is also one of the rare bright lights in the Canadian economy. In the first quarter of 2015, overnight arrivals to Canada hit 2.32 million, a 6.8 per cent increase compared to the same period last year. Visits from the USA were up six per cent and China (+23.9 per cent) and Mexico (+37.8 per cent) were particularly strong. With a growth rate more than double what we saw last year, is it time to celebrate?

...supports 170,000 small and medium-sized businesses across the country, contributes over $88 billion to the Canadian economy and generates over 627,000 jobs. The performance is good, but it comes after years of stagnation and decline. A decade ago, Canada was among the top five international tourist destinations, and now it is in 16th place. The Canadian Tourism Commission (CTC), responsible for marketing Canada as a tourist destination, has watched its budget steadily decline from $105.9 million in 2009 to just $58 million in 2014. A few

years ago, the CTC stopped marketing in the U.S. to focus on other markets. In May, the Prime Minister announced an additional $10 million per year to market in the U.S. The problem is that $10 million is a drop in the bucket. The government spends around $90 million per year to market its own programs in Canada. Proctor and Gamble spends $275 million annually to market Crest toothpaste in the U.S. If only more people knew about its rich cultural attractions, the potential is enormous. Marketing works. Last year, tourism revenues from countries where Canada is actively marketing itself grew by 13.7 per cent, nearly triple the growth from countries where it doesn’t market. An Australian report showed that each $1 of additional marketing was returning $16 of revenues from tourists, an extraordinary return on investment. The U.S. tourism industry is currently booming. April had the highest occupancy ever (66.8 per cent) and the highest room demand (99.4 million) ever. U.S. hotels are struggling to keep up with demand. With our cheap loonie and our soft economy, this is a great time to let the Americans know that we’re open for business. That’s why the Canadian Chamber is calling for a much larger investment, of around $120 million annually, to market Canada internationally. Visit #StandUpForTourism to join the conversation on Twitter and learn more on our campaign to Stand up for Tourism!

This is Our

Fernie

The Fernie Museum oﬀers visitors a look into those adventures through its exhibit, This is Our Fernie. The exhibit has numerous sections including Fernie Through Time, We Work Hard, We Play Hard and Experience Fernie. Visit Fernie, now and then, and enjoy our authentic mountain town!

2015 EXHIBITS FERNIE AT WAR: THE MORRISSEY INTERNMENT CAMP 492 2nd Ave. Box 1527 Fernie, BC V0B 1M0 Call: 250.423.7016 Web: www.ferniemuseum.com Email: info@ferniemuseum.com

June 5 to September 7, 2015 The exhibit titled Fernie at War: The Morrissey Internment Camp explores a painful period in Canada’s history showing the impact of an international war on the Elk Valley.

AN IMMIGRANT STORY: THE RISE AND FALL OF EMILIO PICARIELLO September 9, 2015 to January 3, 2016

Open Daily 10am to 5:30pm Museum & Visitor Information Center

The exhibit and related programming will provide insight into the immigration history of Fernie and will explore the impact of Prohibition on individuals and the communities in which Picariello lived and operated his legitimate and illegal businesses.

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CULTURAL TOURISM:

Celebrating Fernie’s mountain culture and heritage Fernie is a global tourism destination. People come for a variety of reasons – our legendary powder, our pristine waterways, the plethora of excellent trails, and to experience a community with a dramatic

landscape that shapes them. One of the fastest growing tourism markets, cultural tourism largely attracts high spending, educated visitors that are culturally savvy and environmentally aware. As a result, the impact of

by Ron Ulrich Fernie Museum

history and a burgeoning arts and culture scene. By definition, cultural tourism is connecting travellers with the unique character of a place – its people, their history and the

this market segment on the environment or local culture is generally minimal while making significant contributions to the local economy and the support of cultural organizations and

events. Fernie offers a wide range of year-round cultural experiences, including numerous galleries, the Arts Station, the Museum, the Library, live music, and excellent local cuisine. Opportunities to experience local culture expand in the summer. Visitors can experience the region’s natural heritage through popular hikes such as the Coal Creek Trail or on a float trip down the mighty Elk River. Visitors can discover Fernie’s culture through art walks and historic walking tours. Events such as the Wapiti Music Festival provide opportunities to explore different sides of Fernie’s unique culture and way of life. Critical to cultural tourism is authenticity, and here Fernie excels. Unlike many resort communities, Fernie has retained its

Critical to cultural tourism is authenticity, and here Fernie excels...Fernie has retained its heritage by maintaining its historic streetscapes and natural landscapes. heritage by maintaining its historic streetscapes and natural landscapes. As a community, we have not divorced ourselves from our historic roots and embrace our coal mining heritage and economy. Preserving and promoting our community’s cultural, natural and built heritage not only contributes to a sense of place, but it makes for good investment towards a vibrant tourism economy. Funds from the Resort Municipality Initiative continue to support the ongoing development and maintenance of our cultural

tourism infrastructure, including the Museum, Arts Station, local trails, and a variety of community events and festivals. Cultural tourism is not just about good business. We welcome vistiors to Fernie to experience what we have long known … that Fernie is a great place to live, work and recreate. Celebrating our community’s heritage and sharing our way of life not only creates a memorable vacation for visitors, it also contributes to our own sense of pride and identity.

Beauty & Sleep... Guaranteed

• Outdoor Hot Tub • Indoor Pool & Hot Tub • Fitness Room • Kitchenettes • Suites • 100% Smoke-Free • Free Wi-Fi

• Banquet & Meeting Facility • Complimentary Breakfast • Boston Pizza • Liquor Store • Massage Studio • Car Rental • Pet Friendly

Fernie Mountain Lodge 250-423-5500 Toll Free: 1-866-423-5566 www.bestwesternfernie.com

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Fernie, the Canadian ski town that could Fernie is a true Canadian ski town. And while skiing has always been a huge part of the community’s heritage, it was made official in the 1950’s when the first tow lift was installed and operated on the south face of Mt. Proctor (behind the Fernie Chamber of Commerce). From there we jump to 1962. With the donation of land from Galloway Lumber, and many countless

by Cali Sammel Fernie Alpine Resort Snow Valley, now known as Fernie Alpine Resort on opening day in January 1963. Photo Fernie Historical Society

volunteer hours from dedicated individuals and businesses, the Fernie Snow Valley Ski Resort officially opened on January 10th, the slopes filled with smiling powder lovers. After the official opening of the ski hill, development kicked into gear with Heiko and Linda Socher. There were many exciting milestones over the next decade, including the beginning of the Ski School in 1968 by Linda Socher, the opening of Lizard Bowl and part of Cedar Bowl in 1969, and the first on-hill accommodation in 1970 - one of the first ski in/ski out lodging properties built in the Rockies.

Purchased in 1997 by resort operators, Resorts of the Canadian Rockies (RCR), Fernie Alpine Resort has blossomed into a top winter destination in the world, and was recently voted as the Best Resort in North America by the World Ski Awards. Today Fernie Alpine Resort has 142 named runs, five alpine bowls and up to 37 feet of powder a season! In 2012, celebrating its 50th anniversary, the resort had a mid life growth spurt bringing skiing and riding all the way to the peak with the addition of new Polar Peak chairlift. You have to experience this chair to believe it (think of riding through the clouds to the most epic terrain in the region)!

Resorts of the Canadian Rockies is forever grateful for the passion of the people from Fernie, B.C., for their ongoing support of the resort, for their neverending love of winter, outdoor adventure and most of all for where they live! In fact, Resorts of the Canadian Rockies created the ‘Summit Fund’ in 2007 to support community programs, schools and charities wherever possible. The first five years of the Summit Fund supported over 150 community organizations and projects totaling over $150,000. After a brief hiatus RCR renewed another five year commitment to the community starting in 2013. While skiing and snowboarding is a huge draw for people from all over the world to visit Fernie, it’s by far not all there is to this ‘powder promised land’. Staying on mountain at Fernie offers guests the chance to relax and not worry about driving with over five on mountain ski in/ski out properties, over six on mountain eating venues, a convenient on-mountain grocery store and the famous Après Ski Bar - the Griz Bar – “Keeping Rippers Ripped Since 1962”. Venturing to the nearby town offers unique local artisans, the quaintest of bakeries and coffee shops, charming brick architecture, bars full of ski bums from all over the world, and a whole lot of stories & history to learn! Fernie, B.C – where the beer is brewed locally, but the server who brings it to you may be imported, known as “The greatest place on Earth” and where the ‘no friends on a powder day rule’ is observed with full commitment. If you find you never want to leave once you’ve visited, well, that’s not the first time we’ve heard that.

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Insights from Tourism Fernie When you think tourism, what comes to mind? Out-of-towners strolling about with a camera and a map? An influx of excited people on the river and trails? Patios busy with visitors chatting about the day’s events? Tourism is all of that and much more.

The World Tourism Organization defines tourism as ‘a social, cultural and economic phenomenon which entails the movement of people to countries or places outside their usual environment for personal or business/professional purposes.’ As a mountain resort community Fernie has been hosting visitors for decades, not only for its scenic beauty but also for the vast unique experiences available. Since 2000, accommodation revenues in Fernie have increased 132% from $6 million annually to over $15 million in 2014. Many businesses and locals rely heavily on tourism to sustain their business and provide jobs, and much of the recreational infrastructure and opportunities in Fernie, available to visitors and locals, are a result of the local tourism economy.

Fernie Accommodation Revenues Since 2000

132% As per the City of Fernie’s Official Community Plan: ‘Fernie boasts a relatively diversified economy compared to some surrounding communities. Two sectors – natural resources and tourism– are particularly important drivers. As the tourism industry in general has developed, and with improvements to transportation infrastructure such as Highway 3 and the regional airport in Cranbrook, resort investment has soared. With mountain biking, golfing, and skiing, tourism in Fernie has become a year-round industry.’ The importance of tourism to Fernie is evident at every corner. Many local families own or operate tourism businesses. Much of Fernie’s population relies on the industry for both year-round and seasonal employment. From hotels and restaurants, to resorts, activity providers, attractions, grocery stores and gas stations, the tourism economy is a key component of what defines Fernie.

TourismFernie.com

So what does the future hold for Fernie? Given the passion and professionalism of the local tourism industry, the global desire to visit beautiful and unique places, and the community’s growing collaborative effort in destination management we see further prosperity and sophistication. There is no doubt that there are external factors that impact tourism, such as the lack of snow most of Western North America encountered last season to oil prices in Alberta, but like any industry tourism weathers the storms and learns from them. The more Fernie can work together to maximize the success and sustainability of tourism and to better understand the metrics and value of the industry the further the community’s economy will grow. Tourism is here to stay.

THE FREE PRESS Thursday, July 9, 2015

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TRANS CANADA TRAIL: Fernie, the missing link It’s well known that Fernie has become a worldwide destination for athletes and those seeking a thrill on our hills and mountainsides in both summer and winter.

by Sarah Kucharski Free Press staff

Fernie on the right track.

Latin American cuisine and cocktail lounge, located in the center of Fernie’s vibrant Downtown on 2nd Avenue 531 2nd Ave 250-423-5566

With Fernie being selected as the next city to be marked by the Trans Canada Trail (TCT) — a network of bike trails that stretches from the Atlantic to the Pacific and on to the Arctic ocean — that recognition as an outdoor recreation hub is being solidified. The TCT itself is a 24,000 kilometre long endeavour that will be completed by 2017. The TCT currently connects 1,000 communities across the country and soon will be adding Fernie and its surrounding areas to that list. While there is only a select adventurous handful who will undertake biking the entirety of the TCT, being mapped by such an illustrious national trail literally puts Fernie on the biking map and will invite riders from near and far to ride into town and access everything Fernie has to offer for bikers and beyond.

Bikers crossing the provincial border through the TCT will find their first impression of British Columbia through the Elk Valley, allowing Fernie and its surrounding areas to be a provincial biking ambassador for eastto-west TCT riders. Plans for the exact route of Fernie’s portion of the TCT are still being determined, and though new trails will be constructed for its purpose, the TCT can also plug into pre-existing Fernie trails. Attaching Fernie to the vastly spanning route arteries of the TCT will not only bring added trail adventures for local riders looking to dominate new bike tracks, but will also allow for out-of-province bikers to explore Fernie’s already-expansive trail network of almost 100 trails through the TCT. In this way, it creates a beneficial opportunity for experienced local

Photo Sarah Kucharski

riders and newbie Fernie trail adventurers alike. Fernie’s prosperous biking culture will appeal to visiting TCT bikers who can take advantage of our various riding amenities while they’re in town such as Gear Hub, Straight Line Bicycle & Skis, Ski Base and The Guide’s Hut. Being able to increase our local businesses’ clientele will boost commerce and jobs in Fernie. Encouragement for visiting bikers to make use of Fernie’s mountain bike shuttles and bike guides will encourage higher numbers and ridership of Fernie’s famous single track trails. Further extensive use of these trails will foster the development of more single track paths to accommodate higher ridership numbers and more staff to maintain pre-existing trails to keep up with substantial use from local and tourist bike riders.

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Characters and rivers - a true Trout Town Fernie and the Elk River Valley seem to be one of those rare places that is brimming with authentic character. The cast includes: the indigenous mountain trout of the area – Cutthroat and Bull trout, the plethora of gin clear - freestone rivers, the unique geography and climate of the Elk Valley, the historical coal mining town of Fernie and of course the many unique folk that reside in this picturesque Rocky Mountain landscape. These are some the

by Mike McPhee Fly-fishing Journalist/ Photographer

reasons why Fernie is gaining a reputation as one of the premiere fly-fishing destinations in North America and a true Trout Town. One of the first things you will notice after interacting with the locals is the diverse mix of personalities. You have the born and bred locals, a population of ski bums, fish bums, mountain bikers and other outdoor recreationalists and those seeking escape from the big city. Many of these have come for a season and stayed for life. This makes for an ever-interesting combination of characters.

The character of the rivers and local geography

are also unique. The Lizard Range of the Canadian Rocky Mountains rises up along the Elk Valley in majestic fashion – rivaling what you would find in the National Parks. The Elk River winds through this unique landscape with its cold mountain water journeying from the high country in the North. At least a dozen tributaries of the Elk are prime trout streams as well – each with their own personalities. A couple of the unique components of the Elk and its tributaries seem to be a perfect combination of cold mountain water which the Cutthroat and Bull Trout thrive in - plus the perfect valley temperatures for abundant insect life. The Elk itself is the perfect drift boat river and that is what most of the local guides depend on. I have yet to see so many unique, productive and consistent trout streams as those in the Elk Valley. The Elk River and its tributaries hold the largest population of pure Westslope Cutthroat left in North America - or the world most likely. A healthy population of Bull Trout and Whitefish round out the indigenous fish species of the area. One of the most endearing character traits of “Cutties” is the fact they will surface feed on dry-flies at most times of the day, in all weather and most seasons. The other attributes that make me love Cutties are the places they inhabit. The high mountain streams that are too cold for other trout species seems to be perfect for these guys. Those quiet, out of the way high places are great for the inner explorer and let your inner hunter instinct roam. It’s not unusual to catch beautiful 16-18 inch trout on tiny tributary streams that on first look may seem unworthy. This mixed cast of characters and the places they inhabit keep me at least addicted to

stream fishing.

Locally Owned Guide Service Cat Skiing • Fly Fishing • Wildlife Tours Local Rates 250..423.6704 1.877.423.6704 info@fernieadventures.com

Canadian fly-fishing author and TV personality Jim McLennan catches a beauty of a Bull Trout on the Wigwam River. Photo by Mike McPhee

I had only experienced this type of fishing a few times before coming to the Elk Valley and I have to admit that it has only added to my character – building patience and giving me more appreciation for the quiet corners of the landscape. The fish, the terrain and the time alone within it have built more character within myself then many years in other outdoor activities. Between the voracious dry fly eating Cutthroat and monster Bull Trout, and the ample drift boat or wading opportunities - the Elk River Valley is a stream fishing paradise full of authentic characters and well worth the moniker - Trout Town.

Park Place Lodge is proud to be a community supporter & tourism partner in Fernie.

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Fa ce s

Pl ac es

(CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT): THE GUIDES HUT: From left: Russ Hanson, Lucia Glasse-Davies, Geoff Halstead and owner Mark Gallup. Gallup opened The Guide’s Hut in 1995. Since that time, the business has grown in to a biker’s paradise, providing locals and visitors with bicycle merchandise, service and repairs, rental bikes (both townies and mountain bikes) and soft good products for year-round use. They currently employ four full-time staff members and four part-time staff members. TOURISM FERNIE: From left: Rebecca Hall, Jikke Gyorki and Nancy Gillis. Tourism Fernie works with visitors to plan the best possible visit to Fernie’s small, yet vibrant city. Three individuals dedicated to spreading information on Fernie’s history, culture and beautiful landscapes currently work at Tourism Fernie, in addition to 11 members occupying seats on the Tourism Fernie Board of Directors. CANYON RAFT COMPANY: Owned and operated by Blair Craig and Lynn Muller, was incorporated in 1995. Employees brave the Elk River rapids on a daily basis from May until August. Currently they have seven full-time and between four and five parttime employees. The locally owned rafting company takes locals and visitors on an incredible eight hour tour of the Elk River’s breathtaking landscapes. NEVADOS: From left: Holly Kimola, restaurant owner Kurt Saari, Xavier Cedeno, Steph Nault, Barrie Elliott and James Newman. Bringing culture to the Fernie’s downtown core, Nevados provides patrons with authentic Latin American tapas, in addition to 35 high-end tequilas and mescals. Currently employing 15 staff members, the unique restaurant is open from Monday to Saturday from 5 p.m. to 10 p.m. and on Sunday from 12 p.m. to 5 p.m. During the summer months, their gorgeous patio is often filled with laughter, great food and delicious drinks.

Retail Shops

STANFORD HOTELS & RESORTS: From left, back row: Michael Holmes and Jack Rigg. From left, front row: Sharlene Andns, Brianna Cartwright, Elise Bryant, Marley Hess and Corien Sieders. Fernie Stanford Resort offers hotel units, apartment style units and family units for guests. In addition, The Tandoor & Grill Restaurant, located inside of the Stanford, offers a unique blend of Indian and Mexican style food made from fresh ingredients. Fernie Stanford Resort currently employs 25 staff members dedicated to making tourist’s visits to Fernie memorable.

TOURISM

contributes to employment Lodging

Marketing

Restaurants

Recreation

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THE FREE PRESS Thursday, July 9, 2015

Fernie - a welcoming destination by Patty Vadnais Executive Director Fernie Chamber of Commerce

Fernie – a place where people make plans to go on vacation years in advance. As a kid, I remember being excited for months about the upcoming school ski trip to Fernie. Everyone wants to come to Fernie. And, a few of us get to live here. I am new to Fernie, been here just over a year, every day I look out

my front window at Mount Fernie and think I am on a holiday. I drive to work thinking I am on a holiday. And why wouldn’t I think this. Over 12,000 visitors walk into the Visitor Information Centre every year to come and see Fernie. What a coveted place. Let us share it. Let us share it with that family

from out of town, that couple on a honeymoon, that group of girls or guys on a stag/ staggette party, that wife who planned a 40th birthday party get away for her husband, in Fernie. The Fernie tourism sector employs over 800 people in the winter and over 200 people in the summer. Some employees are lifelong residents, and some are coming to ‘do a season’ in Fernie. They are all here because of its beauty and its community. Here in Fernie we have some of the best dining anywhere. I grew up in a town of similar size, if I want to go out to eat with my parents when visiting them, our options are Subway or Dairy Queen. We are definitely

spoiled here in Fernie when it comes to dining options in a town of fewer than 5000 people. The visitors allow us to have two grocery stores and many retail options. This selection of shops and services are things not found in other towns of similar size without the scenery, the adventure, and the charm. The Fernie Chamber of Commerce finds over 30 per cent of its membership self-identify as being in the tourism sector. A third of our town lives and thrives off those who want to see what Fernie has to offer. Whether they are retail shops, guiding businesses, ski operations or bike shops, it is the weekend warriors and family adventurers that keep our

shops afloat and allow us, who get to call this place home, the luxury of choice and selection. I love Fernie. I want to soak up all it has to offer. I want others to be able to come and enjoy it for a moment or a lifetime. If we embrace that visitor, and welcome them with our small town charm they will come back, and that is a good thing. Perhaps they are budding entrepreneurs who will choose Fernie for their business and help diversify our economy. Customer service is now about the experience, and I hope we can give visitors to Fernie an experience that is fantastic and memorable.

Photos by Kyle Hamilton and Mike McPhee

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RMI FUNDING:

Resort Municipality Initiative supporting the community Fernie was traditionally a resource-based area, however it has developed into an established and diversified resort destination. Mining and forestry remain very significant to the city, and growth in food and beverage, accommodation,

of the Resort Municipality Initiative (RMI). It receives funding that provides Fernie the opportunity to invest in tourism programs and infrastructure to create the world-class experience that visitors expect when they are here.

by Mary Giuliano Mayor of Fernie

entertainment, recreation, retail, personal services, construction, government and technological services have become fairly extensive. This growth has allowed Fernie to become a member

These investments are not otherwise possible through customary revenue sources without adding considerable burden to the municipality. The RMI is a $10.5 million a year program that addresses

the unique situation of resort municipalities to develop and enhance local tourism related infrastructure and amenities. Fernie has received $2,454,207 in funding from the RMI program since 2009. It is a results-based program, which requires accountability of funding to the province. An example of the impact of this program was evidenced during the flood and resulting damage in 2013. With the damage sustained it was necessary to hire contactors and mobilize equipment to remediate the damage. The commitment of RMI funding, in the 20122016 Resort Development Strategy, to reconstruct the Dogwood Park Sport Fishing Boat Launch allowed the City to coordinate that project with the riverbank remediation, resulting in significant savings on the Boat Launch project. This is a key example of

an initiative that couldn’t have been taken on if not for the funding made available through the RMI program. In addition to the Boat Launch reconstruction, significant progress was made to the Nordic trail network and other trails within and around Fernie. In addition the City has purchased a mobile stage and helped fund the Summer and Wednesday Socials, the Wam Bam Dirt Jump Jam, and Griz Days. Art walks, concert series and winter shuttles as well as many other organizations and projects have benefited from RMI funding. Our goal is to increase capacity and the number of successful festivals and events so as to enhance both the resident and visitor experience. This program means a great deal to Fernie. Although mining is still the backbone

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of the community economy, tourism is also providing a great deal of benefit to the area. As part of the RMI group, Fernie contributes greatly to the B.C. economy, however the low population doesn’t support the tax base of infrastructure demand for increased tourism. The RMI funding leads to an escalation in private investments and a boost to employment through the increased number of visitors coming to our area. The RMI program is very important to Fernie, however, this funding is not totally secure. At present the province has committed to the funding until 2017. Local government leaders understand this concern and talks are underway as to how to best address this concern so that the benefits for all resort communities will continue in the future.

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Saying “I do” to Fernie tourism by Jennifer Cronin Free Press staff

Fernie has become a destination wedding spot. With breathtaking scenery, a wide range of venues for every budget, outrageously good food and the comfortable welcome of a small town, we have it all. The revenue generated in Fernie from a single wedding is hard to fathom and the spin off effects even more so. A bride and groom will pay for meals, accommodations, venue, and minister or officiate, photographers, flowers, musicians, hairdressers, estheticians, transportation and much more. A small wedding will have 30 guests and a large one may have up to 300, all of whom also need accommodation, meals, beverages and entertainment. There may not be one singular event that generates more revenue for our town, or impacts as many businesses and families. Often the groom and his groomsmen play a round of golf, go rafting, fishing or take a tour of the brewery the day before the wedding. The bridal party spends this day being pampered; getting their nails done, doing a test run for their make-up and hair, and of course, shopping. At the end of the day, the bridal party, family and guests will often meet up

Photo by Kyle Hamilton

for a rehearsal dinner. All of these things are a cost to the happy couple, and a benefit for Fernie. From the time the bride says, “I do,” to Fernie, the town is put under the spotlight. A trip will be planned to come and visit their chosen venue, perhaps have a food sampling, visit with their minister, meet their hairdresser, consult with the photographer etc. This trip is not without cost, and all of the monies spent support local business, and therefore our families. After the wedding is over, the entourage has gone home, and the dust settles the spin off effect will continue. Hopefully some of the guests will have

enjoyed their stay enough to return with their families to make their own memories. With upwards of 100 weddings in Fernie in a year, and over half of those being visitors, the benefit to the people of Fernie is staggering. Not many cities can boast of scenery and beauty that compares with what Fernie has to offer. The beauty, combined with the amenities and available activities will continue to bring happy couples to our area for many years to come. Meeting the people that make up the fiber of the tapestry that is Fernie, will bring visitors back time and time again!

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THE FREE PRESS Thursday, July 9, 2015

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DESTINATION EVENTS:

The importance of events to tourism development

by Rebecca Hall Tourism Fernie It’s been 14 years since the first TransRockies event rolled through town, bringing with it mountain bikers from around the globe hungry for new and exciting trails. Fernie delivered, and in the relatively short amount of time since that first event, has become a mecca for travellers seeking out trail riding destinations. As per Dan Savage of the Fernie Transrockies Society: “Riding in the Moab Valley, it’s apparent how well-known Fernie is

as a great mountain biking location everyone you meet has either been or wants to come.” Success can be measured in incremental and return business. Transrockies events put our trail network on the map and brought thousands of international travellers to ride Fernie’s trails. They took the message home with them, and like a viral message on social media, the word spread quickly. The event was the catalyst for more and more events each year, and for summer 2015, Fernie is boasting a massive 65 scheduled mountain bike events including races, camps, and weekly rides for all ages from four to 64 (and beyond!) Businesses gain from events too - of a sampling of downtown businesses surveyed following 2014’s Fernie 3 event, over 55 per cent reported increased sales, and over 89 per cent felt the event had a positive impact on the local economy. Scott Gilmet, director of Sales & Marketing with Park Vacation Management says it’s not just about the event weekend alone: “Events are

a product that can be utilized to bring unique markets to town. Events like Wapiti and the Half Marathon appeal to a specific demographic. Even weddings bring groups of people who may not otherwise have planned a trip to Fernie. Once they’re here they are a captive audience; if Fernie shows them a great time, they will share that message with their friends and family.” Past events like the Taste of Fernie helped to put the local culinary scene on the map. Former head - organizer Kevin McIsaac feels the event helped raise awareness of, and interest in, Fernie as a dining destination: “We went from restaurants that were busy from Christmas to Easter, thanks to the ski season, to restaurants that are busier now in the summer than the winter. That transition was happening during the time that Taste of Fernie was happening. Towards the end, restaurants were simply too busy to spare the staff to attend the event. Fernie has long had great winter dining and more than our fair share of great restaurants. It’s great to see their patience and hard work rewarded with year-round support.”

Fernie 3

Kavu Event

Wapiti Film Festival

Reel Canadian Film Festival

Photo Tourism Fernie

Photo Olivier Gosselin

Photo Tourism Fernie

Photo Olivier Gosselin

Yamagoya was once a winter-only on-mountain option serving just a handful of customers each night; now people queue into the street for half an hour before it opens, almost every day. The Tandoor Restaurant and Grill is following suit. Formerly only available for a few months in winter, the Nepalese chefs now serve up authentic Indian cuisine yearround. That’s just two of many great restaurant success stories. To capture the destination event market, it’s important to send the word out well in advance. The success of these events and others like the Tears & Gears, Mountain Film Festival and the Wam Bam Dirt Jump Jam has, in part, been due to a well planned marketing strategy- great branding, a clear message, updated websites, social media campaigns and a date published well in advance. Typically, long-haul visitors are in the planning stages around 9-12 months prior to travel. Having a calendar packed with the great events, Fernie is famous for is a great way to inspire visitors from every demographic and corne

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Weaving a small town tapestry by Katelyn Dingman Free Press staff

A mountain community nestled in the Southeastern corner of British Columbia, Fernie locals are spoiled by a beautiful landscape and a thriving arts and culture community. And the city, keen to share all that Fernie has to offer, welcomes visitors to the area. Tourism truly drives the economy here in Fernie. From guests checking in to the various mountain hotels to visitors filling up with gas, a lot of businesses rely on the tourism industry. Local Fas Gas franchise employee Tash Malek estimates that 60 per cent of their business comes from tourism during peak seasons. Tourists from Europe, the USA and even as far as New Zealand and Australia filter into Fernie during the winter months, embracing the powdery slopes and the mountain town lifestyle. But those tourists don’t solely spend their hard earned cash on the slopes. They head to the local grocers to stock up on food, and visit one of the many sport shops in town to pick up a new pair of ski gloves or goggles. Funds from tourism filter down in one way or another to nearly every business in the area. Whether they’re taking advantage of the wide

Photos Kyle Hamilton

variety of local restaurants or looking into renting a car from Practicar, many local businesses rely on tourism. Although the slopes offer a great winter escape for tourists during the winter months, the tourism industry is still very prevalent during the summer. Malek said that during the summer months, he estimates that 70 per cent of their clientele are tourists. Mainly heading into Fernie from Alberta and Saskatchewan, tourists soak up the great outdoors here in the Elk Valley, taking advantage of our beautiful campgrounds, hiking trails, rivers and biking trails. With so much to offer, it’s not hard for tourists to fall in love with our little mountain town. Fernie is home to world-renowned fly-fishing on the Elk River, and with dozens of fly-fishing guides, visitors are sure to have a great and memorable experience out on the river. Anglers can also pick up supplies from one of the local experts in town,

including Fernie Fly-fishing, the Elk River Guiding Company Ltd. and the Kootenay Fly Shop. And for those tourists looking to tune up their bicycle or grab some new hiking gear, The Guides Hut, Straight Line Bicycle & Skis, Gear Hub and Ski Base are all great places to visit. You can leave it to the professionals when it comes to getting the best gear in town. The Visitors Information Centre is also a great place to check out. With a variety of different hiking and biking maps, the Fernie Visitors Centre employees help you choose the best trail for your needs, whether that means showing you the long, yet breathtaking, Heiko’s Trail route or introducing you to an easier flat trail that’s suitable for the whole family. Weekend after weekend, Fernie is inundated with fresh faces and the community always seems to band together to ensure tourists have an unforgettable experience.

FROM GUIDING TO GEAR, ELK RIVER OFFERS IT ALL. We have professional fishing guides ready to take you down the river, as well as a year round fly shop, stocked with all the latest hunting and fishing gear!

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Donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t miss the BEST day of your summer!

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SCENERY APPRECIATED Excerpts from The Free Press August 20, 1920

By J.F. Spalding ________________________________________ Those who were at the Chautauqua last evening heard what Tom Skeyhill had to say about the scenery around Fernie. For the benefit of those who were not there I am going to repeat it. “I did not come here to speak about your progressive and solid little town nor about your surroundings, but I cannot go away without expressing my admiration for the beauty of it all. The magnificence of your mountains surpass in all respects those at Banff, in fact in all my travels I have never seen such wonderful scenery as you have right here.” To give force to this statement he told us where he had travelled, through Australia, New Zealand, Tasmania, the entire United States, the greater part of Canada and throughout Europe. This statement was entirely spontaneous on his part as I have not met him and do not believe he was prompted to say it by anyone else. He simply agrees with every tourist through here, that this section of the country is the scenic centre of America and that when it is better known thousands will come to see it, but as he said, working together and a proper community spirit by the people here, is the only way to accomplish anything. Hitherto the Canadian Pacific Railway Co. Have ignored this town entirely, the only place in which we appear in any of their literature

is in their time tables. I did think that when they opened up the tourist Camp at Lake Windermere they would at least mention Fernie as being in the line of route, but as usual nothing is said about us in their booklet, Cranbrook gets it, so last week I wrote a long letter to Mr. J. M. Gibbon their publicity agent at Montreal expressing the Fernie Board of Trade’s surprise at this omission and pointed out to him that a great number of the tourists going to that camp have to go through here and that the best scenery in the whole distance is between here and Elko. I went into the matter thoroughly and have hopes that they will be induced to give us the representation we are entitled to in their literature henceforth. I shall probably hear from him in the next few days and next week will publish my letter and his reply. Having had to spend an entire day this week with the directors of the Elk Valley Lumber Co., I took the opportunity of broaching the subject of the conversation of the timber around Island Lake, pointing out to them that we hoped to make the Lake one of the drawing cards to the town. Mr. Campbell and Mr. Liggeg made a trip up to the Lake and were impressed with its beauty and told me yesterday that they would be glad to co-operate with us and reserve the timber adjoining it. They are going into the matter and desire to have a survey made, but want us to state exactly what we want done.

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