The Free Press, December 17, 2015 by Black Press Media Group

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The CP Holiday Train made its way through the Kootenays, with stops in both Sparwood and Fernie on Dec. 13. By Bryn Catton Free Press Staff

Figure Skating Exhibition - Page 21

COMMUNITY

Save-On-Foods grand opening - Page 3

he CP Holiday Train stopped in Fernie on Sunday night to help the local Salvation Army branch with cash and canned food donations. Fernie and Sparwood were two of approximately 150 communities that the two brightly decorated trains stopped in. Starting in Montreal, The “Canadian Train” travels west and finishes in Port Coquitlam, British Columbia while the route that the “US Train” takes makes stops across the U.S. Northeast and Midwest before returning to Canada for stops in Saskatchewan and Alberta. “I thought it went fantastic. A lot of good people and children enjoyed it and adults were dancing around. I thought it went extremely well

and it’s good support for the food bank,” said the Salvation Army’s Major, James Hägglund. The performers for Fernie’s event were Blue Rodeo’s Jim Cuddy, Devin Cuddy of the Devin Cuddy Band and country singer Kelly Prescott. The crowd seemed to enjoy the concert as they were dancing, singing, and enjoying the holiday spirit. The event brought more people than expected, as the United Church ran out of refreshments before the festivities ended. “The United Church was out helping, doing the hot chocolate. They served twice as much as they did two years ago and they ran out,” said Hägglund, adding he thinks they served over 400 cups this year. The Holiday Train raised over a thousand dollars and ample nonperishable items.

“In cash it was a little bit over $1100 that came in. As far as food donations, I had half a truckload that I took back, which is equivalent to 20 to 25 banana boxes of canned goods. The community really rallied fantastically,” said Hägglund. This is only a portion of what the Salvation Army raises and needs to operate every year. The two largest contributing events are the donations made by mail and the Christmas Kettles. “It’s been good, what we had donated is just a fraction of what we need and use for a whole year,” he said. “Our Christmas Kettles, which we have out now, are one of our major resources, between that and the donations made by mail. We get the bulk of funding we need that allows us to operate year round.” Food bank usage has more than quadrupled since Hägglund began

Photo by B. Catton

working with the Fernie Salvation Army. “We have a food bank that we have open Tuesdays and Thursdays. We have been averaging 15 to 20 families that come through in a week. It’s more than four times what it was when I first arrived here”said Hägglund. Hägglund wants to thank everyone who contributed to make the evening great and CP Rail for making Fernie a stop on the train’s schedule. “I think it was an excellent event. CP Rail is to be congratulated for coming through every couple years,” said Hägglund. “I greatly appreciate the support of the community. I know the use of the food bank has more than doubled over the past year so I greatly appreciate the help of everyone who donated.”

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THE FREE PRESS Thursday, December 17, 2015

Reported theft at Thrift Store celebrates anniversary Trinity Lodge By Bryn Catton Free Press Staff

By Bryn Catton Free Press Staff

n Dec. 8 around 4 a.m., a local resident at the Trinity Lodge Senior Complex had his recently purchased Christmas lights stolen and his property vandalized. “He is pretty upset. He doesn’t want his name put out because he is afraid of retribution,” said Val Drader on the victim’s behalf. Amongst things stolen and broken where multiple heavy duty extension cords, Christmas lights, ornaments and outdoor lighting, such as floodlights. “He said that there were two heavy duty extension cords stolen, two of the brand new colour changing [Christmas] multi-lights. The ornaments were smashed that he had out there,” said Drader. “They also tried to unscrew the lights that he had around his doorway.” According to Drader, the man who had his property vandalized and stolen is stand up gentleman. “If someone can’t put up lights, he is the one that puts them up. He shovels the walk for whoever he can. He is just a really nice guy,” said Drader. The majority of Trinity Lodge’s residents decorate the backside of the building with lights and festive ornaments for the holiday season. “The seniors take a lot of pride in their lights and stuff. For one thing, he can’t afford to replace them,” Drader said. “Most are all living off old-age security [pensions]. Now he is scared to put anything out there again. Now a lot of them are probably not going to want to put them out anymore.” The police have been contacted and there is an investigation underway. Anyone with information regarding the incident is encouraged to contact the local RCMP.

he second anniversary of the Elk Valley Thrift Store (EVTS) was on Dec. 12, with door prizes, refreshments and baking being offered in conjunction with the event. The store carries a variety of items. “There were six door prizes but the ‘big’ prize was for a completely decorated Christmas Tree, with a $100.00 value, won by a lady named Donna,” said Katrin Taylor, a volunteer and manager of the EVTS. “The EVTS carries pretty much everything, from clothing, sports gear, books, kitchen wares, electronics,

crafting supplies, home decor and much more,” said Taylor. “We cater to anyone and everyone.” This year has brought some positive memories for the shop. “We expanded our shop which has made it possible to carry more inventory. The EKCCU [East Kootenay Community Credit Union] donated a van to us in the spring, which has been a huge help. This year Christmas Store was a huge success, we pretty much sold out in two weeks,” said Taylor. The thrift store has recycled over 30 tonnes of textiles this year. All recycling payouts were put into the causes that the thrift store supports.

“This year alone we have sent over 36,000 lbs. to our Vancouver Textile Recycling Plant, thus, saving 18 tons from our local landfill. We were also paid $7,000 for our efforts, which, of course, was donated directly back to one of our causes,” said Taylor. The store has donated over $80,000 this year and has helped more than 50 separate groups and individuals within the valley. “We are going to set our goals high for 2016 and hope to donate over $100,000. This will be made possible by donations from the public and the super-dedicated volunteers of the EVTS.”

RCMP warns of icy road conditions By Leah Scheitel Free Press Staff

he Elk Valley RCMP is warning the public of dangerous road conditions after a number of recent collisions. Will Thien of the Elk Valley RCMP said recent weather conditions are the main culprit behind the dangerous roads. “The problem on the highway is because of the weather we are having – the snow and cold and then it heats up again,” he said in an interview with The Free Press. “There is a layer that is not evaporating or there is a layer that keeps building up so we do have a lot of people who lose control, especially along

Highway 43.” A 41-year old man from Blairmore, Alta., died in a collision north of Sparwood on the evening of Dec. 6 and there have been other incidents in the area this week. “We are reminding people that because of fluctuations in the temperatures, that layers of black ice are being built up. We are asking everybody to use extra caution in terms of speeding up or stepping on the gas,” said Thien. “Even though you are not driving fast, if you’re not good at handling slippery situations and you lock it, that’s it. You lose control totally.” Thien also said he expects to see more traffic on the highways because of the upcoming holiday season.

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THE FREE PRESS Thursday, December 17, 2015

Save-On-Foods grand opening in Fernie

Left: Community members joined Save-On-Foods manager, Mark Lento, in dontating Christmas toys to Major James Hägglund of the Salvation Army. Right: Members of the community, including Mayor Mary Giuliano, joined Mark Lento and regional manager Jim Tennant, along with other staff members at Save-On-Foods for the grand opening of the grocery store on Dec. 11. Photos by A. Horton

Columbia Basin Trust to fund education initiatives Submitted

olumbian Basin Trust has committed $1 million to two environmental education initiatives. Dubbed “Know Your Watershed” and “Columbia Basin Environmental Education Network” the programs are designed to educate Columbia Basin children and communities and give them an appreciation of nature. According to Tim Hicks, Columbia Basin Trust Manager, Water and Environment, programs like these have a positive outcome. “These initiatives have proven successful, and we’re pleased we can commit additional funding to help them become more sustainable, plan into the future and grow,” said Hicks in a press release. “Through these initiatives Basin students will continue to have hands on opportunities to increase their understanding of the natural environment, which Basin residents have told us is a priority.” Over three years, $540,500 will be given to the “Know Your Watershed” program. The project has been in development since 2010 while working with environmental educators in the area. The program is intended to help grade eight students understand how they use water and where it comes from. Wildsight, an organization that works to encourage sustainable communities has also been a part of the program. “Wildsight is thrilled to continue working with the Trust to deliver Know Your Watershed,” said Monica Nissen, manager for Wildsight’s education programs. “We hear from teachers and students across the Columbia Basin how much they love the action-oriented, hands-on learning of the program. Because it incorporates knowledge from local community experts, not only does it make a big impact on students, but it also strengthens the community as a whole.” In the same duration, $500,000 will be given to the Columbia Basin Environmental Education Network (CBEEN). The program was created in partnership with the trust in 2002, by educating participants about the environment around them. The project also features “Wild Voices for Kids”, where local experts give in school curriculum linked programs. “CBEEN is excited to continue to play a

key role in encouraging environmental stewardship and sustainability in the Canadian Columbia Basin by supporting environmental education,” said Duncan Whittick, CBEEN Executive Director. “There are so

many educators from across our region who provide excellent learning opportunities for both classrooms and communities, and we look forward to continuing to work hard to support their efforts.”

Happy Holidays Here’s hoping your holiday season is packed with good times, good friends and happy surprises. We’re filled with happiness and gratitude, thanks to our many wonderful friends and customers. We couldn’t ask for a better gift than your loyal support.

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THE FREE PRESS Thursday, December 17, 2015

The Tandoor and Grill Restaurant re-opens

About the Senate… with MLA Bill Bennett 1. The federal government announcement that a committee will make recommendations to the Prime Minister about who should be put into the Senate does nothing to help BC and therefore, we cannot support it. 2. The Maritime provinces combined have 2 million people and 24 Senators. BC has almost 5 million people and we have 6 Senators. That is not “effective” and it is not democratic. 3. BC believes the Senate should either be fixed by making it equal for all provinces, or it should be abolished. This committee process is no different than how Senators were selected over the past century. The PM makes the final decisions.

Head chefs Dilip Shand (left) and Keshab Sabkota (right) beside manager Elise Bryant at the Tandoor and Grill Restaurant. Photo by B. Catton

Bill Bennett MLA, Kootenay East www.billbennettmla.bc.ca

he Tandoor and Grill restaurant at the Stanford Resort is finished its renovations and reopened to a closed event on Dec. 9. On Dec. 10, the restaurant opened to the public. With an international cuisine menu inspired by ethnic Indian food created by head chefs, Keshab Sabkota and Dilip Shand, the restaurant looked forward to introducing new diners to their new cuisine and giving experienced ones the flavors they seek. “Tonight is the first opening, our special guests are coming. It will also go to see how we deal with the work,” said Sabkota prior to the event. Shand believed that there would be 60 people for the special opening. The initial

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opening focused on appetizers, also known as “appies”. “[Tonight will be] appies, it will be something special to show off the kitchen and what we can do,” said Shand. The restaurant opened to the public on Dec. 10 at 4 p.m. There was a buffet style dinner featuring entrees, appetizers, salads and chutneys for $20. “We would like to invite all of Fernie people as they will love every time they eat our food, which is Indian authentic. We welcome everybody,” Sabkota said prior to the opening. On behalf of the restaurant, manager Elise Bryant and chefs Sabkota and Shand would like to invite Fernie residents and members of the surrounding community to the restaurant. “We would like to invite all of Fernie,” said Sabkota. The restaurant has had some

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major renovations to open the dining area, enhance the view and make it more welcoming. “We have changed our atmosphere in hopes that people will join us and come sit down. We have renovated the old restaurant. It is no longer as closed off, you get a better view, it’s more spacious, welcoming, and comfortable,” said Bryant. The head chefs hail from South Central Asia and have come to Fernie because of client demand and mountain views. “We are both from Nepal,” said Shand. “We came because there is a customer base,” said Sabkota. “The mountains bring us here,” said Shand. “This is something new, you get this view. [The room is] open. You can see the people skiing right out the window. It’s beautiful,” said Sabkota.

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Canada Post belongs to all of us. We believe its time to get back to basics. We want improvements instead of unnecessary cuts. It’s time Canada Post redirects itself to meeting the needs of the people.

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THE FREE PRESS Thursday, December 17, 2015

New boutique shop opens in Fernie By Bryn Catton Free Press Staff

new storefront has emerged in the downtown core of Fernie. Coal Town is a boutique shop that offers handmade items that owners Diana Peake and Nicole Leckenby have sourced themselves. “It’s all handpicked, handcrafted items that we have found over the years at markets, online or through friends,” said Leckenby. “It has to be well made, it has to have quality. It needs to be unique enough that you won’t necessarily find it in a whole bunch of other stores locally. Ideally, it is something

The Elk Valley Society for Community Living would like to thank those who

eyes of Leckenby and Peake - the blue-collar undertones supported our combined with a level of elegance. Summer Program for Children “Fernie is a coal town at its core. There are a bunch of ski with Special Needs towns but Fernie has a soul and because it is a special place people come from all over the world so there is still a level of by buying tickets in our sophistication,” said Leckenby. Annual Christmas Raffle. While there are a number of ski towns in the area, Leckenby and Peake believe that Fernie has something more so they We would like to congratulate made a store that caters to the people who mirror the town. Don Moore of Fernie, “Fernie girls are the ones who can go run up the ski hill, go hunting, or mountain biking then come back and get all dolled the winner of the $500.00 prize. up for a nice dinner at one of the awesome restaurants in town,” said Leckenby. The duo came from the West Coast, but both have been in Fernie for more than a decade. “We are both from the Coast, we both met working at Yamagoya. To make a long story short, we became Thomas Northcut / Digital Vision / Thinkstock fast friends,” said Leckenby. “Yeah, both the same age, lots of similarities,” said Peake. “We were on what it means to be HIV-positive empowered me. setting up beside each other all the HIV hasn’t stopped me from doing anything. I always wanted to do a time at the markets.” triathlon. So I did.” The market circuit is where the idea for a bricks and mortar retail To arrange a test call a nurse at: shop started. The two wanted to 1-866-778-7736 have something that they could walk Find out more about HIV at: away from everyday by closing a door rather than the constant set up and tear down they became accustomed to through their time at the markets. “Then we just thought one day that it would be so cool to just close and lock a door at the end of the day and walk away. Then here we are,” said Leckenby. “Then everything flowed serendipitously. We already had all these business cards and contacts of all these people so we already had a way to fill a store with all the awesome stuff we knew of,” said Peake. “It all happened so easily that it was meant to be.”

HIV Then

HIV Now

Getting educated

“Bush party meets sophisticate,” is how Coal Town owners describe their new shop in the downtown core of Fernie. Nicole Lechenby (left) and Dianna Peake (right) are the owners of the small boutique Photo by B. Catton

Canadian made.” Coal Town opened Nov. 30 and since the store’s opening, Peake and Leckenby have been amazed at the support that their friends, local businesses and strangers have given them. “The town is so supportive. Friends and even strangers have come by with stuff like flowers and well wishings,” said Leckenby. “Even the downtown core of other businesses have been welcoming,” Peake added. The store name, Coal Town, is a reflection of Fernie in the

Columbia Basin Trust Board and staff wish you a happy holiday season filled with warm memories & cherished moments

Dead fish found near Teck site By Leah Scheitel Free Press Staff

n Dec. 7, approximately 100 deceased fish were found by Greenhills Operation workers in a side channel that links to the Elk River. "We immediately notified the appropriate regulatory authorities and are undertaking a review," said Nic MIlligan, Manager of Community and Aboriginal Affairs. "At this time it appears the mortality was related to the recent very cold weather and ice formation in the channel." Milligan said Teck doesn’t currently have any reason to suspect that this was caused by any operations at the Greenhills Mine. There is no indication at this time that selenium or other mine-influenced water quality

constituents were a factor. Milligan noted that Teck's intention to continue investigating the cause. More information will be provided as it becomes available.

COMMUNITY

CHRISTMAS CELEBRATION

cbt.org 1.800.505.8998

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

BIG Thank You! A

M er

to the following volunteers * Kathy Letasy * Shaun Nerbas * Romain Godin Sorry we missed you.

To receive a free 2016 desktop calendar, visit cbt.org/calendar.

SAT, DECEMBER 19, 2015

ry Christmas from

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

ELK VALLEY THRIFT SHOP SOCIETY 250.423.4458 • fhlprogrammer@gmailcom • http://fernie.bc.library.com

THE FREE PRESS Thursday, December 17, 2015

Opinion

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

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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

Call 250-489-3455 or toll free 1-800-665-2382 for Subscriptions Press Council, PO Box 1356, Ladysmith, B.C. V9G 1A9 Established in Fernie, B.C. in 1898 and published weekly each Thursday by The Free Press, a division of Black Press Group Ltd. and distributed throughout the Elk Valley and South Country. Free circulation 6,000. Reproductions of any material contained in this publication is forbidden without the prior consent of the publisher.

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

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FRONT OFFICE In Absentia

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

Letters to the Editor

by Leah Scheitel

There have been a lot of warm of fuzzy feelings shared across Canada this past week. Canadians have been applauded for their welcoming nature as the first wave of Syrian refugees arrived to the country. Prime Minister Trudeau was on hand to welcome the refugees, which made international headlines and is combating the decade-long reputation of the Harper government. This is not the only thing that the new Liberal government has done to separate themselves from their predecessors. Last week, the government announced the first phase for the national inquiry into the missing and murdered Indigenous women. Despite continual requests from First Nations communities and international human rights organizations, the Harper government neglected to initiate any kind of inquiry during its ten-year reign on Parliament Hill. Trudeau’s willingness to repair relations with aboriginal Canadians should be appreciated by everyone in Canada. Our treatment of our Indigenous communities is one of the largest skeletons in our comparatively small closet. The effects of the residential school system impacted generations of families and can still be felt across Canada. And the thousands of murdered and missing Indigenous women have de-humanized an entire subset of the population. By not taking action, authorities were essentially saying their lives were valued less than others. Yet, by finally taking action and making a plan for an inquiry, the federal government is showing they do care about Canada’s Indigenous communities and they hope to make amends. “For Indigenous Peoples, life in Canada has not been – and it is not today – easy, equitable, or fair,” said Trudeau in his address to the House of Commons on Dec. 7. “We need such an inquiry to provide justice to the victims, to provide healing for the families and to ensure that as we go forward this tragedy is ended.” While his message may be slightly optimistic, he is completely right and it is a step in the right direction; the direction Canadians need to take to be more empathetic towards each other and to provide safety for everyone, including Indigenous Peoples, refugees and citizens. It’s hard to see the downside to repairing relations with Indigenous Peoples. Everyone in Canada will benefit by strengthened relations, as it will ease tensions within communities across Canada, including the Elk Valley. I believe that the more peace there is in the community, the more potential it has to grow and thrive. I was thrilled by the federal government’s announcement to pursue a national inquiry because I believe that big actions trickle down. What is done at a national level will be felt on a local one. It might not be immediate and it might not be easy, but I look forward to the changes in local communities as we work with authorities and Aboriginal communities on this issue. Even if there are no direct changes in the Elk Valley, our communities will benefit, and I’m so excited about that.

Letter to the Editor re: Donald Trump What follows is not simply a case of name-calling (as it was back in the day, when anyone politically left of centre might be referred to as a Commie rat-bastard.) But Donald Trump is a Nazi. All the signs are there: the racist rhetoric encouraging those who theorise about an Aryan-American master race; the hyper-nationalism; the glorification of the military; the worship of power encapsulated in the fuhrerprinzip, the 'one leader principle'. Trump has also conjured up the spectre of the Nazi gegenreich; literally an 'against nation'. In the same way that the Nazis made Jews a collective scapegoat and compelled them to wear the Star of David, Trump wants American Muslims to be marked so that non-Muslims can project their self-hatred onto an identifiable minority. Trump hasn't suddenly appeared out of some political desert, however. He thrives in the hothouse of an extreme right-wing Republican Party - which has belatedly issued a primer for the other Republican presidential hopefuls entitled 'Observations on Donald Trump and 2016'. It admits that he is 'a misguided missile' but at no time does it unequivocally condemn his ignorance, his bigotry,

his racism, his flagrant lying. Instead, the author writes: “Understand the points Trump makes...and ride the wave.” Unfortunately we have our own extremists who have slithered through the door cracked open for them by Stephen Harper's anti-Muslim 'wedge' campaign during the federal election. They harass and assault Canadian women wearing symbols of their faith and, just as the Nazis scrawled Juden raus on synagogues, they stain Canadian mosques with their feculent graffiti. And back in the USA, Trump's Republican supporters are already talking about a boycott of 'non-Christian' businesses. With Tennessee's Republican Caucus leader Glen Casada desperate to “round up” that state's Syrian refugees (all 30 of them), and Jerry Falwell Jr. talking in Lynchburg, Virginia about “killing Muslims”, how soon can we expect Trump to encourage an anti-Muslim cristallnacht, a repugnant repeat of the November, 1938, 'night of crystal' when shards of glass from Jewish store windows glittered on Nazi sidewalks? JC Vallance, Fernie, B.C.

Fernie welcomes refugee family

Brittany Loberg with Fernie Friends of Refugees welcomed Tereza and Mulebinge from the Congo. They arrived at the Canadian Rockies International Airport Dec. 10, and are beginning to adjust to their new lives in Fernie. Submitted photo

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Letters to the Editor continued from page 6 Letter to the Editor re: B.C. Lumber When Christy Clark said she would make a new softwood lumber agreement with the United States her top priority with a new federal government, New Democrats voiced support. We believe that a vibrant forest industry is vital to our economy. Forest dependent communities in the province, B.C. forest companies, and those over 25,000 citizens directly employed in the forest industry deserve strong support.

Unfortunately, either Premier Clark forgot to mention it, wasn’t very forceful in making the case for softwood lumber, or the new prime minister simply ignored her. There’s no evidence that trade consequences for the softwood lumber industry have registered with the federal government. The premier writes mandate letters to her new ministers. Those letters express the most important and urgent priorities of the government and order the minister to act on them. The new prime minister’s long mandate letter to the federal minister of international trade fails to mention the trade consequences of softwood lumber at all. It talks a lot about the Canadian-European Trade Agreement and about the Trans-Pacific Partnership. It talks about the auto sector, about clean technology, about energy, but doesn’t include the words “wood,” “forest” (or “forestry”), “timber,” or “log.”

THE FREE PRESS Thursday, December 17, 2015

Forest-related products remain British Columbia’s largest single export, with a value of nearly $13 billion in 2014, which is more than a third of all our exports. Maximizing the health of our forest industry is crucial for business, workers and communities around the province. Christy Clark’s B.C. Liberal government’s record has been to the detriment of forest-dependent communities, with the closure of more than 200 mills and the loss of more than 25,000 jobs. Meanwhile, raw log exports – which cost British Columbia jobs – are on pace for yet another record high this year: close to seven million cubic metres. So much for Christy Clark’s so-called first priority. Forest-dependent communities in British Columbia deserve better than Christy Clark’s empty words. Bruce Ralston, MLA (Surrey-Whalley) New Democrat spokesperson for international trade

Elk Valley locals on Canada’s refugee plan Question: Should Canada be taking in refugees? Will Fernie work well as a refugee destination? Coren Shore

Toby Klein

Bianca Glover

“I think Canada should definitely sponsor refugees. We have enough work and land here. I don’t think Fernie is a place for them because it is such a small town, it’s seasonal and really community driven.”

“I reckon yeah, it is always nice to help people who need to be helped because they’re in a pretty sticky spot. Fernie is probably not hugely ideal as it is mostly seasonal, but if we can find them jobs then that’s awesome.”

“There are a lot of countries getting it wrong in regards to refugees. They have to come somewhere.”

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

2016 Dog License Renewals

Holiday Garbage Collection Schedule

There will be no change to the residential garbage collection schedule over the holidays.

Christmas Tree Disposal A friendly reminder that Christmas trees will be accepted at the RDEK Transfer Station for disposal at #6 Inkaneep Road in the Industrial Park.

Upcoming Council and Committee Meetings January 11th Regular Council @ 6:00 pm January 25th Regular Council @ 6:00 pm These meetings will be held in the Council Chambers at 816 Michel Road and are open to the public.

Watch for Santa Claus in your neighbourhood on Christmas Eve! The Elkford Fire Rescue Team has agreed to help Santa out by showing him around Elkford in the ﬁre truck. Look to Elkford Fire Rescue’s Facebook page for updates from the North Pole regarding Santa’s visit.

Holiday Ofﬁce Closures

The District of Elkford Municipal Ofﬁce, Community Conference Centre, Recreation Centre, Aquatic Centre and Public Works will be closed on the following dates: December 25th, Christmas Day, Closed December 26th, Boxing Day, Closed January 1st, New Year’s Day, Closed The District of Elkford Municipal Ofﬁce and Public Works will also be closed on December 28th.

2016 Dog License Renewal Invoices have been sent. The fee is $25 or $11 for a spayed or neutered dog license. A late fee of $5 will be charged if the license is not purchased by the end of February 2016. If you are a new pet owner, you are required to purchase a license for your dog. For ﬁrst time registration, please bring the certiﬁcate of spaying/ neutering.

2016 Business License Renewals 2016 Business License Renewal Invoices have been sent. The fee for all new business licenses is $100. The annual business license fee is $100, but renewals will receive a reduced rate of $75 if payment is received by January 15, 2016. If you have a 2015 business license, and do not receive a renewal notice, please contact the District of Elkford Ofﬁce at 250.865.4000.

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THE FREE PRESS Thursday, December 17, 2015

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Friday, Dec 18 - Thursday, Dec 24 Holiday Hours:

Closed Christmas Day December 25 Only Daily Matinees & Late Shows Early Show Only December 31

Rated PG • 7 & 9:30 pm Nightly 3 pm Matinees Daily EARLY SHOW ONLY DEC. 24

Creed

Rated PG • 7 pm & 9:30 Nightly No Matinee EARLY SHOW ONLY DEC. 24

ADD IT ONLINE

321-2 Avenue, Fernie

Event submissions are FREE!

250-423-7111 Movieline

go to:

Peanuts

Rated G • 3 pm Matinee Only - Daily

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

www.ferniemovies.com

www.thefreepress.ca/calendar/submit/

Around the Valley

Around the Valley Legend: Fernie Aquatic Centre = F.A.C. Elkford Aquatic Centre = E.A.C. Sparwood = Spwd Fernie Family Centre = FFC Fernie Seniors Centre = FSC

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.

Monday

• 6:30 to 8:00am – Early Bird Swim at the Spwd Pool • 7:00 to 1:00pm – Public Swim and Lane Swim at F.A.C. • 7:00 to 8:00pm – Fitness Centre open at F.A.C. • 8:00 to 9:30am – Lanes and Leisure at the Spwd Pool • 8:30 to 9:15am – Gentle Fit at the Spwd Pool • 8:30 to 9:15am – Active Fit at the F.A.C. • 9:00 to 10:30am – Indoor Walking at the Fernie Community Centre • 9:30 to 10:30am – Aquafit at the Spwd Pool • 10:30 to Noon – Lanes and Leisure at the Spwd Pool • 12:00 to 1:00pm – Lane Swim at the Spwd Pool • 12:00 to 1:00pm – Skate & Shoot at Spwd Arena • 1:00pm – Dominoes at the FSC • 3:00 to 8:00pm – Public Swim and Lane Swim at F.A.C. • 3:45 to 5:00pm – Public Skate at the Spwd Arena • 5:30 to 6:30pm – Lane Swim at the Spwd Pool • 6:00pm – Bridge at the FSC • 6:30 to 8:00pm – Public Swim at the Spwd Pool • 7:00pm – Mahjong at the FSC • 7:00pm – Celebrate Recovery at Mountainside Church • 7:00pm – Community Climb Night at Evolution Climbing Gym • 7:30 to 9:00pm – Ladies Night at Old School Boxing • 8:00 to 9:00pm – 14+ Hot Tub Only at the Spwd Pool

Tuesday

• 7:00 to 8:00pm – Fitness Centre open at F.A.C. • 7:00 to 1:00pm – Public Swim and Lane Swim at F.A.C. • 9:00 to Noon – Red Cross Swim at F.A.C. • 9:30 to 10:15am – Aquafit at the E.A.C. • 9:00 to 10:30am – Indoor Walking at the Fernie Community Centre • 10:00 to 11:00am – Kindergym at the FFC • 10:30 to 11:15am – Gentle Fit at the F.A.C. • 10:30 to noon – $3.00 Swim at the E.A.C. •11:00am – Crafts at the FSC • 11:00 to 1:00pm – Lane Swim at the Spwd Pool • 12:00 to 1:00pm – Skate & Shoot at Spwd Arena • 1:00 to 2:30pm – Lanes and Leisure at the Spwd Pool • 1:30 to 2:30pm – Parents & Tots Skating at the Spwd Arena • 3:00 to 8:00pm – Public Swim and

Lane Swim at F.A.C. • 3:45 to 4:45pm – Swim Club at the E.A.C. • 5:30 to 6:30pm – Lane Swim at the Spwd Pool • 6:30pm - Ladies Archery at the Elks Hall • 6:30 to 8:00pm – Public Swim at the Spwd Pool • 6:30 to 8:30pm – Opt Fernie Clinic at the Elk Valley Hospital • 7:00 to 8:00pm – Public Skate at the Spwd Arena • 7:00 to 9:00pm – Public Drop In Climbing at COTR • 7:30pm – Cribbage at the FSC • 7:30 to 9:00pm – Mixed Boxing at Old School Boxing Club • 8:00 to 9:00pm – 14+ Swim at the Spwd Pool

Wednesday

• 6:30 to 8:00am – Early Bird Swim at the Spwd Pool • 7:00 to 8:00pm – Fitness Centre open at F.A.C. • 8:00 to 9:30am – Lanes and Leisure at the Spwd Pool • 8:30 to 9:15am – Gentle Fit at the Spwd Pool • 8:30 to 9:15am – Active Fit at the F.A.C. • 9:00 to 10:30am – Indoor Walking at the Fernie Community Centre • 9:00 to Noon – Red Cross Swim at F.A.C. • 9:30 to 10:30am – Aquafit at the Spwd Pool • 9:30 to 10:15am – Aquafit at the E.A.C. • 10:00 to 11:00am – Kindergym at the FFC • 10:30 to Noon – Lanes and Leisure at the Spwd Pool • 10:30 to Noon – $3.00 Swim at the E.A.C. • 11:45am – Gentle Fit at FSC • 12:00 to 1:00pm – Lane Swim at the Spwd Pool • 12:00 to 1:00pm – Skate & Shoot at Spwd Arena • 12:00pm - Fernie Rotary Meeting Park Place Lodge • 1:00pm – Cards at FSC • 1:00pm – Decorative Arts at FSC • 3:30 to 5:30pm - Red Cross Swim at F.A.C. • 3:45 to 5:00pm – Public Skate & After School Rec Hockey at the Spwd Arena • 3:45 to 4:45pm – Swim Club at the E.A.C. • 5:30 to 6:30pm – Lane Swim at the Spwd Pool • 6:00 to 9:00pm – Drop in Workshop at Clawhammer Press • 6:30pm – Tae Chi at FSC • 7:00pm – Quilting at FSC • 8:00 to 9:00pm –14+ Aquafit at the Spwd Pool

Thursday

• 7:00 to 8:00pm – Fitness Centre open at F.A.C. • 7:00 to 1:00pm – Public Swim and Lane Swim at F.A.C. • 9:00 to Noon – Red Cross Swim at F.A.C. • 9:00 to 10:30am – Indoor Walking at the Fernie Community Centre • 9:30 to 10:15am – Ease the Knees at the E.A.C. • 10:30 to 11:15am – Gentle Fit at the F.A.C. • 10:30 to Noon – $3.00 Swim at the E.A.C. • 11:00 to 1:00pm – Lane Swim at the Spwd Pool • 12:00 to 1:00pm – Skate & Shoot at Spwd Arena • 1:00pm – Pay Me Cards at FSC • 1:00 to 2:30pm – Lanes and Leisure at the Spwd Pool • 3:00 to 8:00pm – Public Swim and Lane Swim at F.A.C. • 5:00 to 6:00pm – Lane Swim at the E.A.C. • 5:30 to 6:30pm – Lane Swim at the Spwd Pool • 6:00 to 8:00pm – Public Swim at the E.A.C. • 6:30 to 9:00pm – Public Swim at the Spwd Pool • 7:00 to 8:00pm – Public Skate at the Spwd Arena • 7:00pm – Darts at the Spwd Legion • 7:30 to 9:00pm – Women & Men’s Night at Old School Boxing • 9:30 to 10:30pm – Adult Rec Hockey at the Spwd Arena

Friday

• 12:00 to 1:00pm – Skate & Shoot at Spwd Arena • 3:00 to 8:00pm – Public Swim and Lane Swim at F.A.C. • 3:30 to 5:30pm - Red Cross Swim at F.A.C. • 4:00 to 5:30pm - Free Swim at the Spwd Pool • 5:00 to 6:00pm – Lane Swim at the E.A.C. • 5:30 to 6:30pm – Public Skate & Rec Hockey at Spwd Arena • 5:30 to 6:30pm – Lane Swim at the Spwd Pool • 6:00 to 8:00pm - Public Swim at the E.A.C. • 6:30 to 9:00pm – Public Swim at the Spwd Pool • 7:00pm – Jam Night every 2nd Friday at the Spwd Legion • 7:30pm – Cribbage at FSC • 8:00 to 9:00pm – Teen/Adult Swim at the E.A.C.

Saturday

• Noon to 6:00pm – Fitness Centre open at F.A.C. • Noon to 6:00pm – Public Swim and Lane Swim at F.A.C. • 1:00 to 2:00pm – Lane Swim at the Spwd Pool • 2:00 to 3:00pm – Family Swim at the Spwd Pool • 2:30 to 5:00pm – Public Swim at the E.A.C. • 3:00 to 5:00pm – Public Swim at the Spwd Pool • 4:00 to 6:00pm - Meat Draw at the Fernie & Spwd Legion • 5:00 to 6:00pm – Lane Swim at the Spwd & Elkford Pool • 6:00 to 8:00pm – Public Swim at the Spwd & Elkford Pool • 6:30 to 8:00pm – Women & Men’s Night at Old School Boxing • 7:30pm – Social at FSC

Sunday

• Noon to 6:00pm – Fitness Centre open at F.A.C. • Noon to 6:00pm – Public Swim and Lane Swim at F.A.C. • 1:00 to 2:00pm – Lane Swim at the Spwd Pool • 1:30 to 2:30pm – Family Swim at the E.A.C. • 2:00 to 3:00pm – Family Swim at the Spwd Pool • 2:30 to 5:00pm – Public Swim at the E.A.C. • 3:00 to 4:45pm – Public Skate at the Spwd Arena • 3:00 to 5:00pm – Public Swim at the Spwd Pool • 5:00 to 6:00pm – Lane Swim at the Spwd Pool • 5:00 to 6:00pm – Lane Swim at the E.A.C. • 7:30pm – A.A. Meeting, Christ Church Anglican, 591 4th Ave.

UPCOMING EVENTS DECEMBER 17 18

19 19 19-20 20 23-24 24 24 29 31 31

Fernie Ghostriders vs. Creston, Fernie Arena Community Choir Christmas Concert, Holy Family 7:00pm tickets at door, Scotiabank or Museum In the Saint Nick of Time Craft Fair, Community Centre Fernie Ghostriders vs. Beaver Valley, Fernie Arena Tea with Mrs. Clause, Fernie’s Sweet Tea Parlour 3:00 - 4:00pm Connect with God, Fernie Anglican Church Ski & Photos with Santa, Fernie Alpine Resort Mountainside Church Christmas Eve Service 6:00pm and 7:30pm Mountainside Church Sparwood Christmas Eve Service 7:00pm Fernie Ghostriders vs. Kimberley New Year ’s Eve Party, The Griz Bar Family New Year ’s Eve Party, Fernie Alpine Resort

JANUARY 2 8 9 15

15 15-17

Fernie Ghostriders vs. Creston, Fernie Arena Fernie Ghostriders vs. Columbia Valley, Fernie Arena Kinky Rail Jam, Fernie Alpine Resort Booked! Fernie Writer ’s Series; Raziel Reid, Fernie Heritage Library Fernie Ghostriders vs. Nelson, Fernie Arena Seventh Annual Reel Canadian Film Festival, Vogue Theatre Avalanche Awareness Day, Fernie Alpine Resort

www.thefreepress.ca

CITY OF FERNIE BRITISH COLUMBIA

THE FREE PRESS Thursday, December 17, 2015

CONNECTION

City of Fernie CONNECTION | Community Information and Opportunities | www.fernie.ca City Council Meeting Schedule January 2016 3 10 17 24 31

4 11 18 25

1 2 5 6 7 8 9 12 CITY 13 OF14FERNIE 15 16 BRITISH COLUMBIA 19 20 21 22 23 26 27 28 29 30

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-5 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

Winter Parking and Snow Removal Winter parking regulations are now in effect. The following alternate parking schedule will be enforced through to April 15, 2015: NO PARKING permitted on the South or East Side of the Roadways

NO PARKING permitted on the North or West Side of the Roadways

Monday, Wednesday, Friday and Sunday

Tuesday, Thursday and Saturdays

For more information on the winter parking and snow removal regulations please visit the City’s website at www.fernie.ca or contact Bylaw Services at 250.423.2244 or bylaw@fernie.ca.

Holiday Garbage & Recycling Collection Residential garbage collection will be picked up as usual for all areas over the holidays. The following schedule changes affect curbside recycling collection only. Regular Collection Schedule Change Regular Collection Date

New Collection Date

Friday, December 25 Area 2 - West Fernie, Ridgemont, Mountview, Castle Mountain

Monday, December 28, 2015

Friday, January 1 Area 1 - Alpine Trail, Parkland, Annex, Maintown

Monday, January 4, 2016

Fernie and Area Resort Development Strategy Leisure Services Advisory Working Group – Invitation to Citizens HOLIDAY Under the Resort Municipality Initiative (RMI) program the City of Fernie receives an annual SCHEDULE grant from the Province for investment in approved tourism projects, programs and services designed to grow the tourism economy and help meet the needs and demands placed on resort municipalities. Recently a new 2015-2017 Resort Development Strategy (RDS) was developed by the City that includes the formation of an Advisory Working Group (AWG). The AWG will assist with preparation of reports and partner with the City to gather information and provide expertise to advance implementation of the RDS. The AWG will promote awareness of funding opportunities, assess funding applications and make recommendations to Council for their consideration of funding approval. Meetings will be held at least quarterly beginning in January 2016 (during regular business hours) for the duration of the RDS. Residents interested in filling a “Community at Large” vacancy on the AWG are invited to review the Resort Development Strategy Terms of Reference on the City’s website and forward a letter of interest outlining your related experience and a brief statement regarding what you feel you can contribute to the AWG. Please include all your contact information. Written submissions may be provided by any of the following methods: • IN PERSON: Drop off written submissions at the reception desk, City Hall, 501-3rd Avenue • FAX: 250 423.3034 • MAIL: City of Fernie, Corporate Administration Services, Box 190, Fernie BC, V0B 1M0 • EMAIL: email submission should be sent to cityhall@fernie.ca The deadline to apply is 4:00pm on December 30, 2015.

Public Notice - 2016 Council Meeting Schedule In accordance with section 127 of the Community Charter and City of Fernie Council Procedure Bylaw No. 1956, notice is hereby given that Council has confirmed the 2016 schedule of dates, times and place of Regular Council meetings. The schedule is posted on the City of Fernie Public Notice Board located adjacent to the Heritage Library at 492 – 3rd Avenue, Fernie, BC. JANUARY Monday 11 & 25 APRIL Monday 11 & 25 JULY Monday 11 & 25 OCTOBER Tuesday 11 & Monday 24

FEBRUARY Tuesday 9 & Monday 22 MAY Monday 9 & Tuesday 24 AUGUST Monday 8 & 22 NOVEMBER Monday 14 & 28

MARCH Monday 14 & Tuesday 29 JUNE Monday 13 & 27 SEPTEMBER Monday 12 DECEMBER Monday 12

Note: Both Committee of the Whole (COTW) meeting and Regular Meeting have been cancelled for Monday, September 26, 2016, (UBCM Conference) as well, both Regular and COTW meetings will be cancelled on December 26, 2016. The regular meeting schedule is subject to change with notice. For more information regarding Council meetings or meeting delegation requests please contact Sheryl Zral, Deputy Clerk (T) 250 423.2238 (F) 250 423.3034 (E) or Suzanne Garand, Deputy Clerk (T) 250 423.2221 or cityhall@fernie.ca A paper copy of the schedule is available to the public at any time during regular office hours which are Monday through Friday from 8:00am to 5:00pm except statutory holidays. Council and Committee of the Whole Meetings are held the 2nd and 4th Monday of each month in Council Chambers (except when meetings fall on a statutory holiday - they are held on the next day that City Hall is open). • Committee of the Whole meetings begin at 10:00am • Regular Council meetings begin at 7:00pm.

Christmas Tree Safety Tips from Fernie Fire & Emergency Services • When purchasing an artificial tree, look for a label that says “Fire Resistant”. This doesn’t mean the tree won’t catch fire but it does indicate the tree will resist burning and should extinguish quickly. • If using a live tree, check for freshness. A fresh tree is green; needles are hard to pull from branches and when bent between your fingers, needles do not break. The trunk butt is sticky with resin and when tapped on the ground, the tree shouldn’t lose many needles. • When setting up your tree, place it away from fireplaces and radiators. Heated rooms dry live trees out rapidly so be sure to keep the stand filled with water. Place the tree away from foot traffic and do not block doorways. • Indoors or out, always use CSA approved lights. Check each set (new and old) for broken or cracked sockets, frayed or bare wires, or loose connections, and don’t use damaged sets. • Use no more than 3 standard-size sets of lights per single extension cord. • Fasten outdoor lights securely to trees, house walls, or other firm supports to protect the lights from wind damage. Use only insulated staples, not nails or tacks, to hold strings in place; or run strings of lights through hooks. • Turn off all lights when you go to bed or leave the house. The lights could short and start a fire. Follow these tips for a safe and happy Holiday Season!

December 19/15 to January 3/16

Fernie Aquatic Centre CLOSED December 24 to December 26, 2015 December 31, 2015 and January 1, 2016 Public Swim Dec 19 to Dec 20 (12pm – 6pm) Dec 21 to Dec 23 (7am – 8pm) Dec 27 (12pm – 6pm) Dec 28 to Dec 30 (7am to 8pm) Jan 2 to Jan 3 (12pm – 6pm) Water Slide Dec 19 to Dec 23 (1pm – 5pm) Dec 27 to Dec 30 (1pm – 5pm) Jan 2 to Jan 3 (1pm – 5pm) Crocodile Swim Dec 19 & Jan 2 (2pm – 5pm) Dec 23 & Dec 30 (12:30pm – 2:30pm) Active Fit Dec 21 & 23 and Dec 28 & 30 (8:30am – 9:15am) Gentle Fit Dec 22 & Dec 29 (10:30am – 11:15am) Crafts & Games Dec 21 & Dec 22 (12:30pm – 2:30pm) Fernie Memorial Arena NEW! Public Skating Times on STAT Holidays! Fernie Ghostrider Home Games during Holidays Dec 19 & 29, 2015 and Jan 2 & 3, 2016 Game times 7:30pm Public Skating Dec 19 (2:00pm-3:45pm) & Dec 20 (2:15pm – 4pm) Dec 21 to Dec 24 (1:30pm – 3pm) Dec 25 & Dec 26 (3:30pm – 5:30pm) Dec 27 to Dec 31 (1:30pm – 3pm) Jan 1 (3:30pm-5:30pm) Jan 2 (2pm-3:45pm) & Jan 3 (2:30pm-4pm) Adult Shinny Dec 21 to Dec 24 (8:45am-10:15am) Dec 28 to Dec 31 (8:45am-10:15am) Family Skate & Shoot Dec 23 (11:45am-1pm) Family Shinny Dec 21 (10:30am-Noon) & Dec 25 & Dec 26 (6:30pm – 8:30pm) Dec 27 to Dec 29 (10:30am – Noon) & Dec 30 (11:45am-1pm) Jan 1 (6:30pm – 8:30pm) & Jan 2 & Jan 3 (10:30am – Noon)

Public Notice Notice of Intention to provide assistance under a Partnering Agreement (Chamber of Commerce – Fernie Ambassador Training Program) NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the City of Fernie intends to provide assistance to the Fernie Chamber of Commerce under the terms of a partnering agreement pursuant to Section 21 of the Community Charter for the provision of municipal services, for the Fernie Ambassador Training Program for the years of 2016 & 2017 providing for payment by the City of Fernie to the Chamber of Commerce the sum of $79,700 for the services described in the agreement. A complete copy of the proposed partnering agreement can be viewed at the office of the Corporate Administration Services at 501-3rd Avenue or viewed online at www.fernie.ca . For more information, please contact Corporate Administration Services at 250 423.6817 or cityhall@fernie.ca This Notice was posted on December 17 & 24 in accordance with Section 94 of the Community Charter.

THE FREE PRESS Thursday, December 17, 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 Monday, December 21, 2015 Monday, January 4, 2016

Monday, January 18, 2016

(in Council Chambers)

Regular Meeting at 7:00 pm MEETING CANCELLED

Regular Meeting at 7:00 pm

Business Licences

This is a reminder to all local business owners that your 2016 business licences are now due. Invoices went out in the mail a couple of weeks ago so if you haven’t received your invoice yet please call 250.425.6271. Anyone carrying on a business within the municipality requires a business licence. This includes all home occupations, catalogue sales, commercial, and out of town businesses. New businesses can apply in person at 136 Spruce Avenue or on-line at www.sparwood.ca.

On-Street Parking Regulations October 1 – March 31

We would like to remind residents that the District’s Winter Parking Regulations came into effect on October 1st. Section 36 of the Sparwood Trafﬁc, Parking and Highway Regulation Bylaw No. 472, 1987 prohibits on-street parking between the hours of 6am and 4pm, October 1st to March 31st. Residents should note that: • • •

Parking on the street during snow plowing, snow removal, snow hauling, or sanding operations is prohibited; It is an offence to push, place or throw or allow to be pushed, placed or thrown any snow or ice upon a highway or lane; That no advance warning is required under the bylaw and 189 (1) (n) of the Motor Vehicle Act and offending vehicles will be towed.

Please make appropriate arrangements for parking your vehicles.

Notice of Amendment to the 20152019 Financial Plan TAKE NOTICE that the Council of the District of Sparwood proposes to amend the 2015-2019 Financial Plan pursuant to Section 165.2 of the Community Charter. In general terms, Bylaw 1184 amends the capital expenditure and funding sources for the Douglas Fir paving project and the Corbin Road repairs contained in Bylaw 1168, adopted earlier this year. An opportunity for the public to provide input on the amendments will be provided at the Council Meeting held on December 21, 2015 at 7:00 p.m. The proposed Bylaw is available for inspection at the District Ofﬁce at 136 Spruce Avenue, Sparwood, BC on regular business days between the hours of 8:30 am and 4:00 pm. Michele Schalekamp Director of Finance

Notice of Amendment to Business Licence Bylaw No. 849, 2001 Monday, December 21, 2015 at 7:00 pm in Council Chambers

Pursuant to Section 59(2) of the Community Charter, notice is hereby given that Council will consider adoption of Business Licence Bylaw 849, 2001, Amendment Bylaw 1185, 2015 at the regular meeting of Council for the District of Sparwood on Monday, December 21, 2015 at 7:00pm, in Council Chambers located at 136 Spruce Avenue, Sparwood, BC. The amendment proposes to require all businesses that apply for licencing must comply with current Provincial and Federal Statutes and Regulations, to rectify the Fee Schedule within the bylaw and repeal all other schedules to the bylaw. All persons who believe they may be affected by the above proposed bylaw will be provided with an opportunity to be heard in person and/or by written submission. All written or email submissions should be sent: • In Person: Drop off written submissions at the reception desk, District Office, 136 Spruce Avenue; • By Fax: 250.425.7277; • By Mail: District of Sparwood, Corporate Officer, Box 520, Sparwood BC V0B 2G0; or • By Email: sparwood@sparwood.ca The deadline for written submissions is 9:00am on Monday, December 21, 2015. For more information please contact Sue Mortimer, Deputy Director of Corporate Services, at 250.425.6271 or smortimer@sparwood.ca. A copy of the bylaw amendment and staff report can be viewed at the District Office during regular work hours or online at www.sparwood.ca.

Mayor, Council and Staff of the District of Sparwood Extend Their Very Best Wishes for the Holiday Season

In lieu of sending Christmas cards and in keeping with the true spirit of Christmas a donation will be made to the Sparwood Food Bank and Toys for Tots. We wish you all Peace, Happiness and Good Health in 2016 Please Drive Safely Over the Holidays Looking for Fun and Healthy Stocking Stuffers and Gifts? Give the gift of health and enjoyment! Gift certiﬁcates for a multitude of activities, programs, and passes are available in any denomination, through the Sparwood Leisure Centre. For more information call 250.425.0552 or visit the Leisure Centre.

District of Sparwood Holiday Hours and Information

The District of Sparwood Municipal Office and Public Works Office Hours: December 24, 2015 CLOSED December 25, 2015 CLOSED December 28, 29, 30 and 31, 2015 8:30 am – 4:00 pm January 1, 2016 CLOSED Anyone wishing to make tax or utility payments can do so by leaving a cheque in the drop box located at the front entry, or by internet payment through your financial institution. Household Garbage Collection All garbage normally picked up on Thursday, December 24th, will be picked up on Wednesday, December 23rd and all garbage normally picked up on Friday, December 25th will be picked up on Monday, December 28th. All garbage normally picked up on Friday, January 1, 2016, will be picked up on Monday, January 4, 2016. PLEASE HAVE YOUR GARBAGE SET OUT BY 8:00 A.M. There are no limits on number of garbage bags from December 21, 2015 to January 15, 2016. A reminder that cardboard is banned from the landfill site and must not be put out with your household refuse. Christmas wrapping “paper” (not foil) can be recycled. All uncontaminated cardboard must be RECYCLED. Discarding Christmas Trees You may drop off your old Christmas trees behind Fire Hall No. 1 on Pine Avenue or behind the Sparwood Heights Fire Hall. The District will provide pick up service for those who are unable to drop them off. Leave the tree at your curb for pickup any time up to January 8, 2016. Please ensure that you have removed the tinsel before discarding tree. For further information, please contact the Public Works Department at 250.425.7760. Animal Pound Emergencies For animal emergencies, please call 250.425.7718

From Council and Staff of the District of Sparwood Have a Safe and Happy Holiday Season

Arts&Entertainment WhatsOn THE FREE PRESS Thursday, December 17, 2015

What’s on in the Elk Valley this week.

By Leah Scheitel Free Press Staff

Submitted

he Fernie Arts Co-op, a fixture in the Fernie community since 2003, would like to let the community know about its special offerings during the holiday season. Each December the Co-op enjoys using it's feature windows to display artists' works for sale where part of the proceeds go to a local organization. Last year, the funds raised went to support the Salvation Army and this year, the money will go toward the Elk Valley Hospice. The Elk Valley Hospice supports individuals and their families in end of life experiences and all of the services they

offer are free. The organization is currently working towards opening a little kiosk at the front lobby of the Fernie hospital. The funds raised by the December window sales at the Co-op will go towards the expenses of getting this project up and running. Fernie Arts Co-op members invite you to come check out their December windows to see paintings and pieces by a variety of members up for sale. 50 per cent of each piece sold from the windows will go towards the Elk Valley Hospice, throughout the entire month of December. The Co-op thanks everyone for its support of the arts and also of this great organization that helps so many in our communities.

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

Speed Demon Lights now in stock!

E NTAIN LODG

FERNIE MOU

CAN’T MISS

In the Saint Nick of Time Craft Fair –

Fernie Community Centre Saturday, December 19 10:00am - 4:00pm

The Christmas Craft Fair will be packed with one-of-a-kind gifts, stocking stuffers, ornaments and seasonal produce! Stop by and pick up a treasure to take home- just in time for Christmas.

Sing for Your Supper -

Songwriting/Spoken Word Workshop at Infinitea Saturday, December 19 at 5:00pm Get creative. Get fed. Sharpen up your pencil. Indulge in some creative juices and try your hand. 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.

Kitchen always open

i f in te

-B

Arts Co-op Update

.com rnfernie stweste www.be

ainter Leanne Stothert is locally known for creating canvases with adorable animals or whimsical scenes of children playing outside, but this wasn’t always her medium of choice. For years, Stothert created computer animation. It wasn’t until she moved to Fernie in 2000 that she switched from a computer screen to a canvas. “I started because I moved here and I was no longer able to do computer animation, which I had been doing when I lived in Vancouver,” she said in an interview with The Free Press. “I was trying to get computer animation going here from a distance to continue working in Vancouver but it wasn’t possible because at that time the software was very expensive.” Almost by default, Stothert started painting canvases, using her young daughters for reference and inspiration. “They weren’t necessarily meant to be them but after awhile, I was painting the paintings for them. But after a while I was painting the figure and using them as reference,” she said. After some time, Stothert decided to shift gears and started to use animals as the inspiration and focus of her paintings. Earlier this year, she expanded her subject taste again, and started painting trees and landscapes. While her portfolio has expanded over the years, to Stothert, the varying mediums and inspirations complement one another. “Computer animation was all about creating characters, which aren't all that different from figures on a canvas except that

they have inner skeletons and they move. For me, painting is a kind of extension of building and animating those characters on the computer.” she said. “When my daughters were little and I began painting them. It was a return to those figure drawing classes which I actually loved more than animating. Then, when I began painting animals, it was, in a way, a return to the characters I created and animated on the computer. While I paint the animals I am imagining what characters they would be if they were humans which is why my first group of bear paintings all had names such as Billy, Charles, Reggie.” Stothert now paints full time and is looking to open A sample of Leanne Stothert’s animal paintings, which were a studio and gallery space for sale at Hearth 5. She sometimes names her subjects Submitted photo in Fernie’s downtown core Billy, Charles and Reggie. sometime next year,” she just realized that it wasn’t in 2016. really the venue for larger “We are not exactly sure said. Stothert was also one of six works because people are when it will all be finished but my husband is going to artists to be featured at the going there for Christmas have an office, and maybe get Hearth 5 artisan sale, hosted presents or little things for themselves or other people,” something that he and I can on Dec. 4 and Dec. 5. She specifically makes she said. share. So I’m going to have a “It took me three years to studio space and paintings in smaller canvases featuring figure out that I needed to do town, to the right of Crumbs animals for the Hearth sales. “The first few years, I smaller work, so I did some Bakery. I’m not sure when that will be finished, but brought larger works and I small little bears.”

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Local painter moves from computers to canvases

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ti q u e

Patio & ive L Music

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THE FREE PRESS Thursday, December 17, 2015

Throwback Thursday

1969

Nursery Classes to be held in Christ Church Hall

TALK OF THE TOWN TALK OF THE TOWN

The winner of the Kinette Club doll raffle was Miss Diane Guzzi of Fernie. * About 15 members of the Senior Citizens’ choir, under direction of Mrs. Vernon Uphill, with pianist Mrs. George Hovind, traveled to Cranbrook recently where they entertained the patients in the Extended Care Unity of

Cranbrook Hospital. * Mrs. Annette Hughes was lucky enough to receive a perfect crib hand while playing the game with her mother recently. * Mrs. P. Rieger of Dusseldorf, Germany, is visiting her son-inlaw and daughter, Mr. and Mrs. Heiko Socher and family.

Honour Susan Latka at Natal Shower SPARWOOD – A well-attended miscellaneous shower was held in St. Michael’s Hall in Natal recently in honour of Miss Susan Latka, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Andy Latka of Natal. The bride-to-be was escorted into the hall by her cousin, Mrs. Bill Fraser, and sister, Miss Elizabeth Latka, of Natal, who later assisted in the opening of the many lovely gifts. The evening was spent with the

guests playing whist and bingo. Whist winners were Mrs. V. D’Angelo, Mrs. S. DePaoli and Mrs. H. Travis, while Mrs. J. Jarina, Mrs. A. Kaisner and Mrs. J. Lant were bingo winners. Te children’s prize in bingo went to Miss Delores Gauthier. The lucky cup prize went to Miss Betty Ann Jarina, while the guest book was looked after by Miss Wendy Latka. At the close of the evening , a dainty lunch was served by the hostesses.

Frank Hughes doing well in Western League Race Fernie Minor Hockey Association recently received a cheques in the amount of $800 from the Canadian Amateur Hockey Association because Frank Hughes, a Fernie player was drafted by the Toronto Maple Leaf organization this fall. The money is payable under terms of what is known as the Pro-Amateur Agreement and represents $200 for each of the four seasons which Hughes spent with the local Bantams and Midgets. The B.C. Amateur Hockey Association has also recommended that money for 196566 and 66-67 be paid also.

Jaffray Jottings Mrs. Edna Mamrin of Cranbrook was a guest at the home of Mr. and Mrs. W.J. McKay for several days. * Mr. and Mrs. John Moss of Colville, Wash., were visiting at the home of Mr. and Mrs. Emil Shellborn last week. * Mr. and Mrs. Ed Powell and family were visiting relatives and friends in Nelson over the weekend. *

Contact Garth Rizzuto @ 250-423-0272 rizzutoconstruction.ca or rizzutoconstruction.com Building in the Elk Valley - a family tradition since 1897

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THE FREE PRESS Thursday, December 17, 2015

Spaghetti Dinner Silent Auction Benefit

Thank You

The publisher and staff of The Free Press wish to express their sincere gratitude to the following businesses and people for their generous support in making the Wallman Fundraiser a huge success. Thank you also to all those who could not attend the event but purchased tickets so that someone else could! Royal Canadian Legion Branch #36 Ladies Auxiliary RCL #36 The Relief Committee The Fernie Printing Company Ann’s Your Independent Grocer Union of Food & Commercial Workers Fernie Golf & Country Club Rocky Mountain Optometry Fernie Ghostriders Hockey Club Stephanie’s Glass Le Grande Fromage Giv’Er Shirt Works Odyssey Super 8 Resorts of the Canadian Rockies Fernie Alpine Resort Calgary Flames Hockey Club Elevation Industries Mel Brasseur Polar Peak Books & Treasures Island Lake Resort Interior Envy Green Petal Save-On Foods Elk Valley Wine & U-Brew Ghostrider Trading Eckel Maintenance

Crumbs Cakery Three Sisters Day Spa Fernie Chrysler Mow & Snow Nufloors Ant B’s Kitchen Yamagoya Roger Hockridge Kim Serwatkewich (Scentsy) Town of Pincher Creek Elk Valley Thrift Shop Michael & Muriel Pachara Avalanche City Roller Girls Elk Valley Pizza Shoppe Gary & Johann McLeod Pat & Judy Summers George & Gene Cockburn Kathleen Noakes & John Mill Al Mitchell Marty Hill Donna Smith Ron & Terry Horton Dana Chanasyk Mark Ehmann Ev Cutts Trish Hornquist

THE FREE PRESS Thursday, December 17, 2015

www.thefreepress.ca

City honours Pat Gilmar

By Byrn Catton Free Press Staff

F Mayor Mary Giuliano presents Pat Gilmar with the George S. Majic Spiritus Award on Dec. 14. Submitted photo Submitted by Mayor Mary Giuliano

Childcare for charity

hirty-three years ago Pat Gilmar began trail building so that he could ride the mountains and also because in his heart and mind he knew this would be something that people would come to Fernie for. That was over three decades ago and today he is still building except that now he is proud to say there are over 300 kilometers of trails. On Dec. 14, the City of Fernie acknowledged and honoured Pat for his dedication and volunteerism in the building of what has become a huge tourist attraction and economic driver for the community by presenting him with the George S. Majic Spiritus Award. Pat received several nominations and below are a couple of the comments that were stated by the nominators. “Pat has been a tireless worker, always in the background.”

“The guy behind the scenes” promoting responsible land use, the outdoor recreation opportunities that exist here in Fernie would not be as advanced as they are nor as responsibly developed without his constant presence. His efforts, although known, go largely unsung. He has given countless hours to trail building and mapping mountain bike and ski trails along with volunteering at numerous community events. His passionate contribution to the trail system is a tremendous benefit to the community and visitors alike, something that makes Fernie great. We are very grateful for his dedication and commitment to making our community a better place to live.” The City of Fernie congratulates Pat Gilmar and thanks him for his many years of volunteer service to this community. He truly is an “unsung hero” who deserves to be recognized for contributing incredible vision and effort required to turn that vision into reality.

ernie School Aged Care (FSAC) is donating all proceeds to the Fernie Friends of Refugees (FFoR) program when a child is registered for the “Charity Days” camp. The camp is a two-day winter camp - Dec. 29 is “Winter Wonderland” and Dec. 30 is “wacky hair and dress up day”. As of Dec. 9, 12 more registrations are available for the FSAC’s Charity Day. “During two days of our winter camp, parents have the opportunity to sign their child up knowing that 100 per cent of the fees will go directly to 'Fernie Friends of Refugees' camp, and is open to all kids in kindergarten to Grade 6,” said Mandy Potter, Director of FSAC. FSAC has chosen to support the refugee program due to the recent sponsoring of a Liberian mother and the programs recent creation. “They are a relativity new charity that has already made a difference to one family by sponsoring and supporting their new life here in Fernie and are in the process of sponsoring a single mom from Liberia. To do this they will need support, financially and physically and emotionally,” said Potter. “We also like to

involve the children in our care to understand what it is to be a globally aware citizen.” FSAC also sponsors local children in need to attend the summer camp through a Bake Sale. “We hold an annual charity bake sale in February and have a fund for summer camp and school year sponsorship for families who need our care, but are having trouble financially,” said Potter. The money raised by FSAC’s registration will go toward the financial support the new families to Canada will need. “The money will go towards financially supporting these new families in their first year in Canada. It is a big commitment and we are so happy to be able to help out. If all of the spaces are filled we will raise and donate $540,” said Potter. Parents will receive nine hours care and their children’s care cost will go to support the FFoR. “People have shown interest and think it’s a great idea. However, [they] still need encouragment to sign up and help make a difference. It really is a win-win situation,” said Potter. “They can enjoy the ski hill or just have a day to themselves all while donating to a great charity who needs this help.”

early holiday

For a happy, healthy holiday to everyone we know. We’re so fortunate to have great customers like you. From the employees, contractors and staff of

DEADLINES The following deadlines will be in effect during the holiday season. Friday, December 18 12:00 NOON for December 24th edition Wednesday, December 23 12:00 NOON for December 31st edition Holiday Hours:

FERNIE, BC

Mick 250-423-1868 or call Mike 250-423-1029

Sanding, Snow Removal, Aggregates & Construction Services

The Free Press office will be closed December 25th, December 28th and January 1st over the Christmas holiday and resume regular hours January 4th, 8:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.

250-423-4666

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THE FREE PRESS Thursday, December 17, 2015

Reduce, Reuse, Recycle - it all adds up!

Holiday Recycling Electronics Recycling The electronics recycling depot for this area is in Cranbrook at: Fernie Bottle Depot 1291 Ridgemont Ave Phone: 250-423-2009 Hours: Tues-Sat 10:00am-5:00pm Closed Sun/Mon and Stat Holidays

They accept • Televisions • Computers & peripherals (keyboard, mouse) • Monitors • Fax machines • DVD/VHS players • Scanners • Stereos, MP3 players Discman

• • • • • • •

Earphones Microphones Telephones Speakers Radios Cable, satellite and PVR boxes Vehicle audio and video systems

In addition to electronics, a number of small appliances are also now recyclable at the Bottle Depot. Products are divided into the following categories: • kitchen countertop (ie/ blenders, microwaves, slow cookers, mixers) • time measurement (ie/ clocks , timers) • weight measurement (ie/ bathroom scales, food scales) • garment care (ie/ ironing board, irons, steamers) • air treatment (ie/ air purifiers, portable heaters) • floor care (ie/ vacuums, floor mops, dustbusters) • personal care (ie/ curling irons, hair dryers, electric toothbrushes, electric razors) • power tools • sewing & textile machines For a complete list of accepted products, visit www.electrorecycle.

Fluorescent Lights The LightRecycle program accepts residential compact and tube fluorescent light bulbs free of charge. The drop off locations in the Elk Valley area are: • •

Fernie Home Building - 300 Manitou Road Fernie Bottle Depot - 1291 Ridgemont Ave

Batteries

One of the items people seem to stock up on at this time of year is batteries. Both alkaline and rechargeable batteries are recyclable. The drop off locations in the Cranbrook/Kimberley area are: • Canadian Tire • Fernie City Hall

• Fernie Aquatic Centre • The Source

Glass Glass goes in the yellow bins marked GLASS ONLY. The ONLY glass accepted for recycling is container glass. That means jam jars, salsa jars, wine bottles, olive oil bottles, etc. NO other glass (including dishes or drinking glasses) is accepted. If in doubt, please leave it out.

Recycling Basics Wrapping Paper - all paper based wrapping paper can be recycled in the yellow bins. Foil based papers cannot be recycled and should be thrown in the garbage if they can’t be saved and reused. Ribbons & Bows - cannot be recycled. They can be saved and reused. If they can no longer be reused, they go in the garbage. Aluminum Pie Plates & Roasters - both aluminum pie plates and roasters can be recycled at the Cranbrook Bottle Depot. Cardboard Boxes - all cardboard and boxboard (like cracker and cereal boxes) are recyclable. Please flatten them to conserve space in the bin or blue bag. Tin Cans - all tin food and beverage cans can be recycled. They must be rinsed out. Labels can be left on if they are difficult to remove. Styrofoam - Even though Styrofoam is marked with a #6, it is NOT recyclable in our program. Styrofoam can be recycled at the Cranbrook Bottle Depot. Plastics - all plastics with the triangular recycling symbol and the number between 1 and 6 (except Styrofoam) can be recycled in the yellow bins or Invermere’s blue bag program. They must be clean and every piece of plastic must be numbered. Plastics Not Accepted: • #7 plastics, dirty plastics, plastics with no number. They go in the garbage if they can’t be reused.

Holiday Hours FERNIE TRANSFER STATION December 24 9:00am-3:00pm December 25 Closed December 26 10:00am-4:00pm December 31 9:00am-3:00pm January 1 Closed All other days, the transfer station will be open Mon to Fri 9:00am to 5:00pm and Sat & Sun 10:00am to 4:00pm

SPARWOOD TRANSFER STATION December 24 December 25 December 26 December 31 January 1

9:00am-3:00pm Closed 9:00am-5:00pm 9:00am-3:00pm Closed

All other days, the Landfill will be open from 9:00am to 5:00pm. Closed Sundays & Holidays

ELKFORD TRANSFER STATION December 24 December 25 December 26 December 31 January 1

9:30am-3:00pm Closed 10:00am-5:00pm 9:30am-3:00pm Closed

All other days, the transfer station will be open Tues - Sat 9:30am to 3:30pm and Sun 10:00am to 5:00pm. CRANBROOK RDEK OFFICE December 24 December 25 December 28 December 31 January 1

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

The RDEK’s Cranbrook Office’s regular hours are Monday to Friday 8:30am to 4:30pm.

For more information, contact the RDEK at 250-489-2791 or 1-888-478-73 35

Wise customers read the fine print: *, †, ◊, ≥, ◆, §, ≈ The Be Your Own Santa Sales Event offers are limited time offers which apply to retail deliveries of selected new and unused models purchased from participating dealers on or after December 1, 2015. Offers subject to change and may be extended without notice. All pricing includes freight ($1,745) and excludes licence, insurance, registration, any dealer administration

fees, other dealer charges and other applicable fees and taxes. Dealer order/trade may be necessary. Dealer may sell for less. *Consumer Cash Discounts are offered on select new 2016 vehicles and are deducted from the negotiated price before taxes. †0% purchase financing available on select new 2016 models to qualified customers on approved credit through RBC, Scotiabank and TD Auto Finance. Dealer order/trade may be necessary. Example: 2016 Dodge Grand Caravan SXT with a Purchase Price of $27,790 with a $0 down payment, financed at 0% for 48 months equals 104 bi-weekly payments of $267 with a cost of borrowing of $0 and a total obligation of $27,790. ◊Holiday Bonus Cash of $500 is available until December 31, 2015, on most new 2016 Chrysler, Dodge, Jeep, Ram and FIAT models excluding the following: 2016 Chrysler 200, Dodge Grand Caravan CVP, Journey CVP/SE Plus, Durango, Charger SRT Hellcat, Challenger SRT Hellcat, Viper and Jeep Grand Cherokee models. Bonus Cash will be deducted from the negotiated price after taxes. See your dealer for complete details. ≥3.99% purchase financing for up to 96 months available on the new 2016 Dodge Grand Caravan Canada Value Package/2016 Dodge Journey Canada Value Package/2016 Chrysler 200 LX models through RBC, Scotiabank and TD Auto Finance. Examples: 2016 Dodge Grand Caravan Canada Value Package/2016 Dodge Journey Canada Value Package/2016 Chrysler 200 LX with a Purchase Price of $21,998/$19,998/$22,498 (including applicable Consumer Cash Discounts) financed at 3.99% over 96 months with $0 down payment equals 416 weekly payments of $62/$56/$63 with a cost of borrowing of $3,706/$3,369/$3,790 and a total obligation of $25,704/$23,367/$26,288. ◆3.49% purchase financing for up to 96 months available on the new 2016 Jeep Grand Cherokee Sport through RBC, Scotiabank and TD Auto Finance. Example: 2016 Jeep Grand Cherokee Sport with a Purchase Price of $25,498 financed at 3.49% over 96 months with $0 down payment equals 416 weekly payments of $70 with a cost of borrowing of $3,733 and a total obligation of $29,231. §Starting from prices for vehicles shown include Consumer Cash Discounts and do not include upgrades (e.g. paint). Upgrades available for additional cost. ≈Sub-prime financing available on approved credit. Finance example: 2016 Dodge Grand Caravan CVP with a Purchase Price of $21,998 financed at 6.99% over 60 months, equals 260 weekly payments of $101 for a total obligation of $26,134. Some conditions apply. Down payment is required. See your dealer for complete details. ^Based on IHS Automotive: Polk Canadian Vehicles in Operation data as of July 1, 2015 for Crossover Segments as defined by FCA Canada Inc. TMThe SiriusXM logo is a registered trademark of SiriusXM Satellite Radio Inc. ®Jeep is a registered trademark of FCA US LLC used under licence by FCA Canada Inc.

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THE FREE PRESS Thursday, December 17, 2015

Memorial art project remembers avid skier commemorate all lost loved ones and be a place of remembrance. “It can be extended to other lost loved ones. The idea is something that Seth would have thought that was cool. He would have overengineered it for sure and done

“The idea is to leave your photo on the fence. It won’t look trashy with the plaques; the tickets would disintegrate in the weather. Its like a time capsule,” said Thibaud While the initial concept is to remember Seth, it can also

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Seth Eichenthal, who passed away before getting to ski in Fernie, is the inspiration behind a new art project starting on Jan. 1.

UP TO

Submitted photo

By Bryn Catton Free Press Staff

new art project that encourages public participation will begin to take shape Jan 1. Seth’s Fence is an art project that encourages the public to attach their old seasons passes from Fernie Alpine Resort (FAR) to a fence in Prentice Park. The inspiration behind the project was Seth Eichenthal, who was planning to ski in Fernie in March with his childhood friend Evan Thibaud who lived here at the time. Unfortunately, Eichenthal passed away three months before his planned trip on New Years while on a ski trip in Austria in 2013. The fence’s location in Prentice Park is between the two ballparks. There is a waist-high fence that stretches 20 feet in length, and is attached to a swinging gate. “It’s going to be a piece of public art. Anyone that has ever skied a season at Fernie or will ski a season at Fernie can leave a little mark that says, ‘Hey, I was in Fernie’,” said Thibaud. “If this thing takes off, then people would move towards the north of the fence. We don’t want people filling the ball field fence because then people won’t be

everything in his power to make it moving or something like that,” said Thibaud. “I feel like he would have really loved Fernie, and it would have been a good time with him. It just didn’t work out, three months shy.”

able to see the game. I don’t know how long it will take but the idea is to fill that side of the fence first.” The installation is set to begin on the first day of the New Year. There will not be any formal event to celebrate it; instead participants are invited to add their old passes whenever they can. If contributors are not able to make it to Fernie or attach the passes themselves, they are invited to mail the passes to the City of Fernie. “I want people to start it on Jan. 1. That’s the day he passed away, it’s not an event or anything. I just want it to kind of grow naturally,” said Thibaud. “The City has provided their address so if you can’t make it just mail it to them and they will attach it for you.” While Thibaud wants to have as many people as possible affix their passes to the fence, he requests that people refrain from using day passes. Paper based day passes will shred and weather much faster than the plastic plaque-style season pass. Another reason for the season passes is to leave a photo of yourself, creating a fence filled with faces. After attaching the pass to the fence, participants are encouraged to then post a photo of their pass to the Facebook page and hashtag the photo on Instagram.

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THE FREE PRESS Thursday, December 17, 2015

faces of the valley

www.thefreepress.ca

Left to right: Ryan Scarff, Fyfe Scarff, Oscar Schafer, Dennis Schafer, Mike Hepher, Nell Cline, Nicholas Ward and Jessica Ward create card ornaments at Clawhammer Press by using printing, stamping and drawing techniques that Mike Hepher taught them on Dec. 13 Photo by B. Catton

The story behind the Glenn and Tania Wallman benefit By Jennifer Cronin Free Press Staff

his week, I want to recognize all the people that pitched in to help us raise $7380 for Glenn and Tania Wallman! I have known Glenn and Tania for about 10 years, and I remember when Tania lost her son Michael when he was 25. My youngest son, at that time was about the same age, and I recall thinking that there could not be anything worse. That was until, months later she was diagnosed with leukemia. This she fought through, and I told Tania, “You are one of the strongest ladies I know.” Fast forward four years, and I was stunned when I heard of Glenn’s illness, and ultimate loss of his leg. It was in early November, Andrea, the publisher of The Free Press, and I had a conversation regarding Christmas, and wouldn’t it be wonderful if we could really make a difference in someone’s life. At this time, we had no one on our radar, but we knew we wanted to do something. It was on November 10th that, in a passing conversation with Tania, I could see the stress she was under, and it became clear that this was the family we were meant to help. Things moved quickly from there. Before I could even mention anything to Tania and Glenn, I had to determine what was possible. I contacted Bev Mandel at the Legion in Fernie, and asked if the Ladies Auxiliary would be willing to do the cooking if we put on a benefit. As it happened, they were meeting that night, and immediately after the meeting, Bev called and said, “we’re in, and the Legion will donate the hall!” The next step was to confirm with my colleagues that they were on board. Without hesitation, they all said yes, and Andrea committed the staff resources required. Now came the tough part, would Tania and Glenn agree to us sharing their story? After considerable convincing, they reluctantly agreed, bolstered by the knowledge that the Legion would benefit also. Many steps followed, Char at the Fernie Printing Company did not hesitate when asked to donate and print posters and tickets, Ann at Ann’s Independent Grocer and the United Food and Commercial Workers jumped at the chance to cover the cost of the food. The Relief Committee did not hesitate when asked to donate their time to play for the event. It was amazing! Next, we canvassed the businesses in the valley for donations for the silent auction. So many business owners came forward to offer their support, we were overwhelmed! The donations started coming in, and tickets were flying out the door. We received phone calls from as far away as Las Vegas inquiring ‘what could they do to help?’ One of the things that struck me was how many people did not know Tania and Glenn. This was odd because with all the tragedy that had struck this couple, I thought everyone would know. It doesn’t work that way. Tania and Glenn are humble people, they are helpers, the first to be there if someone needs them, not the type to talk of themselves. When this realization struck me, I knew we had made the right choice as to which family to reach out to. The other thing that resonated with me was the magnitude of the generosity from so many people in our valley that also did not know Glenn and Tania. To all of you who showed your support for the Wallmans, whether you knew them, or not, this column is for you. You are truly amazing, we thank you all, and you are this week’s “face of the valley!”

Major James Hägglund sang at a dinner hosted at the Fernie Family Centre by the Holy Family Parish on Dec. 14. Money for the dinner was raised by ticket sales and homemade pie sales in the summer. Photo by L. Scheitel

Sports

THE FREE PRESS Thursday, December 17, 2015

Ghostriders roll the Rockets for a double win weekend

The Ghostriders celebrate after scoring against the Spokane Braves on Friday night. Photo by B. Catton By Bryn Catton Free Press Staff

he Ghostriders won both home games over the weekend, with a 5-2 win against the Spokane Braves Friday and a big 8-2 win over the Golden Rockets on Saturday. While these teams were lower than Fernie in the division standings, they give the squad much needed points in their battle with the Creston Valley Thunder Cats for second place. “We pick up four big points on a couple of teams a bit lower in the standings that people expect us to win, but you still have to go out and do it,” said Craig Mohr, head coach and general manager of the Ghostriders. “Credit to the guys, they didn’t get cocky about who we were playing, they did what they were supposed to do, go out and get four points.” The coach believes the team is on its winning streak due to their dedication and work. It is reflected in shots on goal and final game scores. “I think first and foremost again, we are playing hard. Our work ethic in both games, it’s almost like it is becoming a habit for the guys so, as a coach, you start there and when you have the work ethic and the competitive level, more times than not it just works itself out,” said Mohr. “I was a little worried today, outshooting them 41 to 13 and only up three to one. But, we were just telling the guys, ‘you’re doing everything right. Goals will come in’ and sure enough, I think we just wore Brody [Nelson the Rocket’s goaltender]

out. He played awesome.” The Fernie squad has been passing and making plays successfully over the past few games. “Right off the start, I thought our execution was on - we were sharp, we were making passes. We have been working on our entries; they have been a little sloppy as of late, so we did quite a bit of work over the mid-week practices on it. It was good to see,” said Mohr. The game against the Rockets had a lot of penalties, amongst them was Mack Differenz’ first fight in the league. “Mack gets in his first KIJHLA scrap which was entertaining, you never see anyone sitting down when there is a healthy scrap on the ice,” said Mohr. “They did it right in front of the benches so kudos to them.” The Ghostriders play their closest point rival, Creston Valley Thundercats, on Thursday, and the perennial powerhouse team, the Beaver Valley Nighthawks, on Saturday. The team is getting ready for the tough upcoming games by keeping humble and disciplined. “For us I think that we can’t get the big head. We can’t think that we are bigger than the process we are doing right now and as coaches that will be our focus in practices. We are on a little bit of a nice roll here and you have got to remember what is getting the wins for you,” said Mohr. “We are outworking teams and we have to continue to do that. That is the number one key.” Both games will be played at the Fernie Memorial Arena. Game time is 7:30 p.m.

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THE FREE PRESS Thursday, December 17, 2015

Warm Wishes One of the real joys this Holiday Season is the opportunity for the Doctors and staff of Rocky Mountain Optometry to say thank you for your continued support this past year.

We wish you a very Merry Christmas and the happiest of New Years!

Fernie, 250-423-4467 Elkford, 250-865-2020 Blairmore, 403-562-7144

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

Thanks, Folks.

Shaw’S EntErpriSES Ltd. 250-425-2119

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A big Ghostrider welcome to Coleton Dawson By Bryn Catton Free Press Staff

fter playing for the Ghostriders for two games, newcomer power-forward Coleton Dawson, has already made an impact, both physically through big open ice hits and on the scoreboard through two assists Friday and two goals Saturday. The team’s coach, Craig Mohr believes that Dawson has integrated into the team well and adds some size and power that the team needed. “Got to give a big tip of the hat to Coleton Dawson. Comes in, gets here at 2 p.m. on Thursday afternoon, gets set up in the billet house and comes back here to get two beautiful assists [Friday] and bags two really nice goals tonight,” said Mohr after the Ghostriders 8-2 win against the Golden Rockets. “We have been looking to add some size and sandpaper up front. We were looking to get a little bigger, a little tougher, a little meaner up front and you know what, I knew he had pretty good hands too, but for a big body he sure has some puck skills. He played very well.” Hailing from Nelson B.C., Dawson has played on multiple teams over his career, with eight team moves, both inside and outside of the Kootenay International Junior Hockey League (KIJHL). Dawson was an alternate player for the Nelson Leafs when he was 16 before bouncing around to other teams, including the Beaver Valley Nighthawks, the Revelstoke Grizzlies and the Grand Forks Border Bruins. “I went down to California to play for the Ontario Avalanche in the WSHL [Western States Hockey League] and then I came back up this season starting in Bow Valley, now I’m in Fernie,” said Dawson. “The guys like to chirp me and call my a suitcase but whatever, I’m having fun.” Despite the friendly heckling of Dawson’s team mates, he has seemed to successfully integrate into the Fernie squad. “The guys are open, it’s pretty easy actually. They have just been wide open. I am not playing any different, things are just clicking and going right,” said Dawson Although he is 20 and in his last eligible season in the KIJHL, Dawson had more offers from teams than he expected. “It’s cool, a 20-year-old and there are only five spots per team. So I didn’t think any teams would call me. I was thinking of going to 100 Mile House, they have a really good team. They

As we reflect on this past year’s successes and accomplishments, we wish you and your families a very safe and prosperous year in 2016!

Happy Holidays and Happy New Year!

Coleton Dawson celebrates one of his goals during the Saturday night game agsinst the Golden Rockets. Photo by B. Catton

are second in their division,” said Dawson. “I got a call from Craig [Mohr] and that didn’t take long. I decided over night. I remember playing maybe a total of five games here and it was just packed. Packed with Aussies and I just love the atmosphere, it’s a fun place to play.” Coach Mohr believes he is a good fit as well, as he is immediately fitting in with the Ghostriders. “Sometimes you just find the good fit. He is someone we were looking to add,” said Mohr. “It’s his last year and it’s kind of his last kick at the can and he is getting along with the guys in the room right off the bat and it looks like it will be a nice little marriage here.” Dawson believes his physical play-style is one of the reasons why he was offered a spot on the Ghostrider roster. “I think a couple of years ago I led the league in penalty minutes, and I shouldn’t be proud of it, but I am. I like throwing the body around, I am not really a goal scorer, but it seemed like it was working out today for me,” said Dawson after Saturday’s Ghostrider win. “It’s good. I like the guys I’m playing with so far and it’s working, it’s clicking, I am glad I’m here.”

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THE FREE PRESS Thursday, December 17, 2015

Skaters impress at holiday exhibition

By Leah Scheitel Free Press Staff

he local skating club put on a performance, embracing the holiday season. Roughly 40 skaters ranging in ages from three to 17 participated in the event, which was held at the Sparwood Arena on Dec. 10. “We are really excited to be putting on the exhibition,” said Lisa Skubovius, head coach of the Fernie Skating Club. “It’s a real win-win because the skaters love doing these little numbers and performing for the audience and also it’s a really great experience for them to get out in front of an audience and have the feeling of putting themselves on the line, putting their skills to the test in front of an audience. So it’s a really great opportunity for them to gain that experience and have fun while they are doing it.” The youngest skaters were the pre CanSkate, most of whom just learned how to skate this season. “You will see skaters from three years old who are just

Siblings Hayden and Makayla Bristow perform to Run Run Rudolph during the holiday exhibition held in Sparwood on Dec. 10. Photo by B. Catton

learning how to move on the ice to our most advanced senior skaters who will be doing double jumps and really spectacular moves. It’s really great to see that range of skating,” said Skubovius. There were 18 performances, including 10 solo performances. All of the group performances were set to holiday-themed music. The exhibition’s intent was to allow for all skaters to gain experience performing in front of an audience while celebrating the holiday season. “For this exhibition, we just asked that the skaters wear whatever they feel reflects the joy of the season, whether it’s colourful or sparkly, or if they want to wear their favourite skating dress. The kids won’t be matching, but they will all be adorned in festive regalia,” said Skubovius. “The main thrust is for the kids to get out there and have fun and gain some experience in front of an audience. We also love that the audience joins in and it helps everyone get involved in the spirit of the season.

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

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THE FREE PRESS Thursday, December 17, 2015

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Fernie Hustlers ladies’ hockey team

Season’s Greetings

It’s the most wonderful time of the year, and we hope it brings you much joy!

Patsy & Richard Boivin 109 Centennial Sq., Sparwood * 250-425-4401

Christmas Update

The Fernie Hustlers ladies’ hockey team after a 4-1 win at a recent tournament in Whitefish, Montana. Submitted photo

As of December 12 we have raised almost half of our goal amount ($35,584.55) out of $72,000. All donations $20.00 and over will receive a receipt, if the information is with the donation. Donations may be dropped into any Salvation Army Fernie Kettle, dropped off at The Salvation Army, or mailed to The Salvation Army, PO Box 2259, Fernie, BC V0B 1M0. Thank you for helping us help the less fortunate in our community.

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Hayden & Makayla Bristow If you are the athletes in this photo you have won a free pizza from Just Pizza! Drop into The Free Press office to collect your prize.

Brother and sister duo, Hayden and Makayla performed at a recent figure skating exhibition, celebrating the holiday spirit. Their cute performance to Run Run Rudolph earns them Athlete of the Week!

Email your Athlete of the Week nominations to customerservice@thefreepress.ca

Regional District of East Kootenay Public Hearing Notice - Bylaw Amendment BYLAW 2649 - Cunliffe Road / Canning

Public Hearing Notice - Bylaw Amendment BYLAW 2661 - McDonald Ave. / Botrakoff

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 the subject property to permit highway commercial land uses including RV and boat storage. The subject land is located at 6208 Cunliffe Road, 0.3 km north of Fernie, as shown on the attached map.

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 the subject property to permit subdivision. The subject land is located at 1679 McDonald Avenue in West Fernie, as shown on the attached map.

Bylaw No. 2649 cited as “Regional District of East Kootenay – Elk Valley Zoning Bylaw No. 829, 1990 – Amendment Bylaw No. 78, 2015 (Cunliffe Rd. / Canning)” will amend the designation of Lot 6, District Lot 4139, Kootenay District, Plan 802, Except Plan 7617, from RR-2, Rural Residential (Small Holding) Zone to CG-4, Highway Commercial Zone with a text amendment to permit indoor and outdoor RV and boat storage.

Bylaw No. 2661 cited as “Regional District of East Kootenay – Elk Valley Zoning Bylaw No. 829, 1990 – Amendment Bylaw No. 80, 2015 (McDonald Ave. / Botrakoff)” will amend the designation of Lot A, District Lot 5455, Kootenay District, Plan NEP64826 from RR-2, Rural Residential (Small Holding) Zone to RS-1, Single Residential (Urban) Zone.

The public hearing will be held at: Fernie Family Centre 521 - 4th Avenue Fernie, BC Monday, December 21, 2015 at 7:00 pm

The Board has delegated the holding of this hearing to the Directors for Electoral Area A and the City of Fernie.

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.

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 submissions will form part of the public record and will be published in a meeting agenda posted online. Personal contact information such as phone and email will be removed from written submissions. Questions about the disclosure of your personal information may be referred to the Corporate Officer at 250-489-2791 or 1-888-478-7335. 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.

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

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THE FREE PRESS Thursday, December 17, 2015

The Free Press Thursday, December 17, 2015

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THANK YOU Thanks to everyone for the kindness and generosity you have shown to our family these past few weeks. A special thanks to Teck, Greenhills, and the Social Club as well as everyone that took the time to come to Tomâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s service. Your sympathy and thoughtfulness will always be gratefully remembered and deeply appreciated. Family and friends are such a gift, especially during times like this. We couldnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t be more grateful for the amazing people in our lives. Thank you from Julie, Richard, Rainey, Andre, Jackie, Brody, TJ, Kasandra, Rob & Payten.

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BOTLEY: It is with unimaginable heartache that we announce the death of Alysha Dawn Fay Botley. Alysha died at her home in Sparwood on Sunday, December 6, 2015 at the age of 25 years. She was born in Port McNeill, BC on January 29, 1990. Alysha was enrolled in the Adult Grade 12 program at the College of the Rockies in Fernie. She was also very serious about fitness, and could often be seen running or weight training. Alysha enjoyed taking long walks with her beloved dog Woolah, or taking a scenic cruise on her motorbike with Patrick. Always together, Alysha and Patrickâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s favorite times were spent with his daughters Kieran and Brae, hiking, playing Frisbee golf and simply enjoying each otherâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s company. Alysha loved the girls as her own. Alysha was especially close to her mom; they were each otherâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s best friend. Their many road trips generated great conversation, lots of laughter, and some very memorable adventures! Alysha loved spending quality time with Gwen and visited regularly, always anticipating the next family get-together. Family was important to Alysha; she loved and appreciated those in her life, and she shared many special relationships. Beautiful inside and out, Alysha was a spirited, friendly, outgoing young lady who made friends easily. A devoted confidante, Alysha was always there for a shoulder to lean on, with kind words of advice when they were needed. â&#x20AC;&#x153;When a loved one becomes a memory, that memory becomes a treasure.â&#x20AC;? Rest in Peace, Sweetpea! Alysha will be forever missed by her fiancĂŠ Patrick Cox with his daughters Kieran and Brae; her mother Gwen Botley and Dave Anderson with his children: Lisa, Doug and Sherill; her father Brian Botley; 2 brothers: Michael Botley (Azure-Dee Mullin) with children Bryce Botley and Chase and Kiana Mullin, and Rory Botley; her maternal grandmother Ella Anderson, and her adoptive grandparents, Al and Nancy Anderson, as well as many extended family members including aunts, uncles and cousins. Alysha was predeceased by her maternal grandfather, Gilford M. Anderson, uncles Gilford L. Anderson and Ralph Anderson, and her paternal grandparents, Fred and Pearl Botley. In honor of Alyshaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s love for animals, donations may be made in her name to the S.P.CA. Memories & condolences shared at www.cherishedmemoriesfs.com Arrangements entrusted to Cherished Memories Funeral Services Ltd.

HELEN CRABB NOVEMBER 14, 1926 â&#x20AC;&#x201C; OCTOBER 7, 2015 Helen passed peacefully on October 7 after a year-long fight with cancer.Â She was in good spirits and was active until the very end. Born Helen Patricia Wolfer in Wetaskawin Alberta, to Ella and John , she was the second of three children. She was predeceased by her daughter Jennifer, brother Robert, granddaughter Chelsea and her husband of 64 years, John (Jack).Â She leaves behind her brother Everett, five children, Jacqueline of Madeira Park, Jeri (Harry) of Calgary, Jocelyn of Madeira Park and the twins John (Lynn) of Port Coquitlam, and Jake (Rita) of Edmonton, along with 12 grandchildren and 10 great grandchildren. A long-time resident of Fernie, she and Jack moved to Calgary for a short time before retiring on the property in Madeira Park. Helen was an inspired cook.Â Her kitchen was the hub of the home, open to everyone and full of laughter and tantalizing aromas.Â She had a green thumb and worked tirelessly turning her home in Madeira Park into the spectacular garden property it is today. Together Helen and Jack built a cottage at Tie Lake, the Junction Dairy Bar at the corner of Highway 93 and 3, worked with the group that started up Fernie Snow Valley Ski Hill and in their retirement, were part of the team that built the Pender Harbour Golf Course (just so she wouldnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t have to drive so far!). Helen loved bridge and made many life-long friends through cards. Her favourite days were when she golfed in the morning and played cards through the afternoon. Helen was an artist, who tried her hand at many mediums, samples of which are distributed throughout the family home.Â She was an explorer and loved â&#x20AC;&#x153;road-tripsâ&#x20AC;?, travelling across the continent and south through Mexico.Â She inspired those around her to work hard, play hard and think independently. A Celebration of Life will be held in July. She will be very dearly missed

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Place of Worship

ELK VALLEY CHURCH SERVICES ST. MICHAELâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S PARISH

741B 2nd Ave. Fernie

Centennial Square, Sparwood

WELCOMES YOU Sunday Meeting Morning Services - 11:00 am Corps Officers: Majors James & Gwen HĂ¤gglund

Fernie Office 250-423-4661 Fx 250-423-4668

ferniesalvationarmy.ca Community Carol Sing-December 12, 7:00 pm Christmas Eve Service-December 24, 6:00 pm

SNOW VALLEY CHRISTIAN FELLOWSHIP

HOLY FAMILY PARISH

KNOX UNITED CHURCH 201 2nd Avenue, Fernie Sunday Services 10:00 am Everyone welcome.

YOU ARE INVITED! Mass Times: Saturdays: St. Michaelâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s ~ 7:00 pm Sundays: St. Michaelâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s ~ 11:00 am St. Bernardâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Mission, Elkford ~ 4:00 pm Fridays: Lilac Terrrace ~ 11:00 am Confessions: Following each mass, or by appointment. Pastor: Father Marcel Cote 250-425-6444

Catholic Church

1361 8th Avenue, Fernie EVERYONE WELCOME

521 4th Avenue, Fernie Parish Office 250-423-6127

250-423-6010 www.knoxunitedferniebc.ca email: KnoxUCFernie@outlook.com YOU ARE WELCOME AT KNOX!

Masses: Tues. 9:00 am Wed. at Rocky Mtn Village 11:00 am Saturday 5:00 pm Sunday 9:00 am Confessions: Before 5:00 pm Mass on Saturday or by appointment Father Marcel Cote

Monday Mens Fellowship...7 pm Sunday Worship & Childrenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Ministry...10:30 am Friday Youth Group...7 pm Affiliated with the Pentecostal Assemblies of Canada. Office 250-423-4114

SPARWOOD CHRISTIAN CENTRE (formerly Fernie Baptist Church)

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

Sunday Services

436 Pine Avenue Sparwood BC V0B 2G0

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

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

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

Contact Pastor Shawn Barden shawnbarden@gmail.com

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

Everyone Welcome

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Thursday, December 17, 2015 The Free Press

Announcements

Obituaries

DONALD: On Monday, December 7, 2015, our beloved father, grandfather, and uncle, William Napoleon Donald, passed away at the age of 88 years. Bill was born in St. Louis, SK on August 5, 1927 to parents John and Marie Donald. An avid sports fan and armchair referee, Bill was devoted to his New York Rangers and Saskatchewan Roughriders. He was also a dedicated golfwer, and was always ready for a crib game. Bill will be fondly remembered for the $0.25 (1950’s), $2.00 (1960’s), $5.00 (1990’s) and $10.00 (2000 to present) every child received when Uncle Bill, Nono, Papa was in town. His memory will remain a treasure to those who loved him. Bill will be dearly missed by his children: Sharon (Maurice) Fraser, Maryanne Mauro, Bill (Kathy) Cytko, Joanne (Wes) Chatterson, John Cytko, and Denise (Quentin) Dixson, 10 grandchildren, 12 great grandchildren, 4 great great grandchildren, his sister Doreen Elliot, 10 nieces and 14 nephews. He was predeceased by his parents, his wife Lucy, sister Clara Tolley, brothers Robert and John, and grandsons Dwaine Fraser and Michael Mauro. Prayers were held on Friday, December 11th at St. Michael’s Catholic Church. A Memorial service will follow in the Spring 2016. Donations may be made in Bill’s memory to Lilac Terrace. Message & condolences shared at www.cherishedmemoriesfs. com Arrangements entrusted to Cherished Memories Funeral Services Ltd.

GRIESER: On Thursday, December 10, 2015, our beloved husband, father and grandfather, Juergen “Gary” Grieser passed away peacefully at home following a long, but courageous battle with cancer. Gary will be dearly missed by his wife of 45 years, Ellie Grieser; daughters Rhonda (Matthew) Down and Tammy Holt (Norm Lefebvre); 5 grandchildren: Tyler and Trystn Down, Akaysha Grieser, Jayden Holt and Tiana Lefebvre, and brothers Dieter (Uli) Grieser and Klaus (Marilyn) Grieser as well as many nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by his parents, Georg and Louise Grieser. Gary was born in Ohringen, Germany and immigrated to Trail, BC with his parents and brothers when he was 7 years old. In 1964 he graduated from high school in Trail and returned to Germany where he completed a Machinist apprenticeship. He returned to Canada in September 1969 and began working for Cominco Trail as a Machinist. A short time later he met and married his best friend and soulmate, Ellie Coates. In 1971 the Griesers settled in Elkford where Gary began working for Fording River, a brand new mine in a brand new town. After 35 years, Gary settled happily into retirement in 2006. He enjoyed many years of volunteer work, from building, to maintaining and managing the local ski hill. Always an active man, Gary loved traveling and doing all things outdoors with family and friends. He was also a dedicated member of the Elkford Lions Club. Gary was lovingly devoted to his wife, his daughters and their families; they were the center of his world. His legacy of love will continue to live on within their hearts forever. Upon Gary’s request there will be no funeral service. A private family gathering will be held. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Canadian Diabetes Association or to the BC Heart & Stroke Foundation. Memories & condolences shared at www.cherishedmemoriesfs. com Arrangements entrusted to Cherished Memories Funeral Services Ltd.

! y u B Buy! Buy! SELL! S e ! ll! l l Se

Employment

Automotive

Career Opportunities

WATKIN MOTORS Ford, Vernon, B.C. immediately requires an experienced Ford Diesel Technician. Visit us online: watkinmotors.com About us, Employment, to apply and review required qualifications.

Business Opportunities GET FREE vending machines can earn $100,000 + per year. All cash-locations provided. Protected Territories. Interest free financing. Full details call now 1-866-668-6629. Website www.tcvend.com. HIP OR knee replacement? Arthritic Conditions/COPD? Restrictions in walking/dressing? Disability Tax Credit $2,000 Tax Credit $20,000 Refund. Apply today for assistance: 1-844-453-5372.

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Employment

Services

Merchandise for Sale

Work Wanted

Personal Care

Food Products

Annex - Need your Driveway or Parking Lot Plowed? I have a Bobcat for quick/efficient snow removal. Call any time, day or night, 7 days/week. 250-423-1306 or 250-423-0477 $20. per driveway. $80/hr. for parking lot.

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KOOTENAY DUCT CLEANERS Locally owned & operated. Affordable, professional, & insured Duct Cleaning Services & System Sterilizations. Toll free 1.844.428.0522 FREE Estimates

More than 1.5 million Canadian families are in need of affordable housing. Your contributions provides Habitat with the resources it needs to help families.

Donate Today!

BC INSPECTED

GRADED AA OR BETTER LOCALLY GROWN NATURAL BEEF Hormone Free Grass Fed/Grain Finished Freezer Packages Available Quarters/Halves $4.90/lb Hanging Weight Extra Lean Ground Beef Available TARZWELL FARMS 250-428-4316 Creston

Community Newspapers We’re at the heart of things™ Furniture

USED 5 STAR HOTEL FURNITURE - BY THE PIECE..One of Vancouvers 5 Star Hotels is renovating their rooms making available a great selection of high end furnishings. By 1 piece or buy multiples: Queen Headboard & Frame $50 / King Headboard & Frame $60 / Upholstered Arm Chair(multiple colors) $49 / Desk $99 / Dresser $79 / Bedside Table $69 / Pedestal Table $69/ Ottoman $29 / Benches $29 / Brass Lamp $19 / Vanity Mirror $39 / Framed Picture $9 . Call 604-371-1190, email Buyit@activeauctionmart.com or www.activeauctionmart.com

Heavy Duty Machinery

A-CHEAP, LOWEST PRICES STEEL SHIPPING Dry Storage Containers Used 20’40’45’53’ and insulated containers all sizes in stock. 40’ containers as low as $2,200DMG. Huge freezers. Experienced wood carvers needed, full time. Ph Toll free 24 hours 1-866-528-7108 or 1778-298-3192 8am-5pm. Delivery BC and AB www.rtccontainer.com

Misc. for Sale www.habitat.ca

Plumbing

Help Wanted

WANT TO DELIVER NEWSPAPERS?

WE HAVE LOTS OF ROUTES AVAILABLE

in Fernie, Sparwood and Elkford 250-423-4666 • 342 2 Avenue customerservice@thefreepress.ca

FULL SERVICE Plumbing from Parker Dean. Fast, reliable, 24/7 service. Take $50 off your next job if you present this ad. Vancouver area. 1800-573-2928.

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SAWMILLS FROM only $4,397 - Make money & save money with your own bandmill - Cut lumber any dimension. In stock ready to ship. Free info & DVD: www.NorwoodSawmills.com/400OT 1-800-5666899 Ext:400OT.

The Free Press

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Thursday, December 17, 2015

THE FREE PRESS Thursday, December 17, 2015

www.thefreepress.ca A25

Rentals

Rent To Own

Apt/Condo for Rent

Homes for Rent

Townhouses

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

House in Sparwood Heights Large 3 bedroom, 2 bathroom house with attached garage, large yard on greenbelt, deck and shed. $1400 per month plus utilities. Call Rick 250-425-5432 or Erin 250-425-7711

27 Juniper - 3 bedroom townhouse in lower Sparwood. $800 per month with 6th and 12th month discounted to $400. Please call Rick 250-425-5432 or Erin 250-425-7711

RENT TO OWN Little Acres Mobile Home Park Sparwood - 2 and 3 bedroom mobiles. Will customize to fit your budget. Please call Rick at 250-425-5432

Apt/Condo for Rent 2 Bed, 1 Bath condo for rent in Sparwood Heights. $800 per month, with reduced rate to $600 for the first 6 months on a one year lease. Utilities not included. Call Erin at 250-4257711 or Rick at 250-425-5432 Clean 2 bedroom, 1 bath condo in Carbanado Court Sparwood. No pets. $750 per month. Please call Rick at 250-425-5432 or Erin at 250-425-7711. Clean 2 bedroom, 1 bath condo in Carbonado Court Sparwood. No pets. $750 per month. Please call Rick at 250-425-5432 or Erin at 250-425-7711.

Apt/Condo for Rent

Sparwood, B.C.

PINEWAY COURT Apartment Units • Close to downtown • Affordable • Hot water included • Your new home! 1 Bdrm plus den $775 (& up) month 2 Bdrm plus den $850 (& up) month

250-425-9912

Apt/Condo for Rent

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

695 per month

Scenic Downtown Elkford

SPARWOOD, B.C.

ALPINE COURT

Quiet • Comfortable • Affordable

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

Located behind the Best Western

For more information call

250-423-1358

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

Hot Water Included

Includes heat, lights, & hot water

Walking Distance to Mall

250-865-2722

Live in scenic & peaceful Elkford

ALDERWOOD PLACE Comfortable apartment units

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

1422 & 1462 – 6th Avenue, Fernie

GOLDEN OAK GARDENS

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

1-250-865-7695

Sparwood 1 bdrm condo, @ Mtn. Air Chalets - furn or not inc util, W&D, w/deck, no pets, $600 + DD Call 403-616-6467 or 403-474-3926.

14’ wide Mobile Home for Rent 3 bedrooms, all appliances Call Joe at 250-425-5387

TO LEARN WHAT’S ON SALE?

YOUR NEWSPAPER:

More than 1.5 million Canadian families are in need of affordable housing. Your contributions provides Habitat with the resources it needs to help families.

Duplex / 4 Plex 1291 Sycamore Sparwood Heights 3 bedroom, 2 bathroom 1/2 duplex, three level split with a large yard on green belt. $900 per month with 6th and 12th month reduced to $450. Call Rick at (250)425-5432 or Erin at (250)425-7711

The link to your community

A division of

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

For Rent: 2 Condos turned into one very large, clean 2 bedroom, 2 bath fully furnished condo for rent in Sparwood Heights. This unit has everything you need including Jacuzzi tub, dishes, bedding. Just bring your clothes.. $1200 per month. Call Rick at 250-425-5432 or Erin at 250-425-7711

WHERE DO YOU TURN

Houses in Spardell for rent. 2 bedroom houses & loft, 1 bath on large lots, appliances, town water, and school bus pick up nearby. Prices vary between $600 and $800 per month plus utilities. Please contact Rick 250-425-5432 or Erin 250-425-7711

Donate Today!

Modular Homes

Sparwood - Several Mobile Homes for rent $400 - $1000 per month. Utilities not included. Please contact

assistant@sparwoodrealestate.ca

or call 250-425-7711 for more information.

Homes for Rent Fernie Rental - 4 bdrm, 2 full bath, stove, fridge, dishwasher stall for w/d. 1,500 sq ft. Deck, carport. Heat & Hydro incl. $1,300 p/m.Ph: 250-423-3216

www.habitat.ca

Transportation

Storage SELF STORAGE: Personal & commercial. Call Finnigan’s Storage.

250-423-3308 or 250-423-1236

STORAGE PLUS: Bays heated or cold & service bays with air, minor repairs. 250-423-7492.

#UsedHelps

Boats World’s Finest FISHING BOATS

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

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THE FREE PRESS Thursday, December 17, 2015

Your Best Choice for Great Hong Kong Style Cuisine!

Brought to you by Fernie’s premiere Chinese restaurant

250-423-3211

YOUR HOROSCOPE

for the week of December 20 to December 26, 2015 THE LUCKIEST SIGNS THIS WEEK: CANCER, LEO AND VIRGO.

ARIES (March 21 - April 19)

You’re going to be doing a lot of travelling, so make sure the car is in good repair before hitting the road. You take this opportunity to change your cell phone or computer.

wifi available

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

BRAIN GAMES ACROSS

CROSSWORDS

PUZZLE NO. 791

TAURUS (April 20 - May 20)

However much you try to stick to a budget, your generosity prevails and you really spoil your loved ones. You could face an unexpected expense as well.

GEMINI (May 21 - June 21)

You may be the person who tries to bring a smile to everyone’s faces. You feel responsible for the happiness of your loved ones and you go to a lot of effort to make things go smoothly.

CANCER (June 22 - July 22)

You may reach the finish line feeling pretty exhausted. A healthy diet should significantly improve the situation and give you the energy to participate in lots of celebrations.

LEO (July 23 - August 22)

You’re quite the perfectionist as a host and want your guests to feel at home. You do everything you can to satisfy them, despite the extra effort this requires.

1. Desert plants 6. “Married to the ____” 9. English beverage 12. Divvy up 13. Metal source 14. Author Serling 15. ERAs, e.g. 16. Tattered cloth 17. Know the ____ and outs 18. Dial sound 19. Courteous 21. Cattle calls 23. Cozy abodes 26. Existed 29. Consumer 31. Inner being 32. Once more 34. Harmonize 36. Gull-like bird 37. Facts and figures 39. Smidgen 40. Groovy! 42. Share 44. Shadow site 46. Chats 50. Jogged 52. Barely passing grade 53. Cold-weather treat

54. Frost 55. Rummy game 56. Pester 57. Sleeping spot 58. Superman’s letter 59. Pares

DOWN

1. Hurl 2. Choir voice 3. Family group 4. Carved pole 5. ____ in the bag! 6. Glum 7. Uttered 8. Start 9. Auditions: 2 wds. 10. Geologic age 11. TV revenue source 19. Sat, as for a portrait 20. Quiz

22. “____ Miss Brooks” 24. Sandwich fish 25. Toboggan, e.g. 26. Douses 27. Over 28. Shielded 30. Graded, as a movie 33. Nothing more than 35. Dark beige 38. Outsiders 41. Sill 43. Dull buzz 45. Oahu souvenirs 47. Teenager’s woe 48. Billiards game 49. Speaks 50. Torso bone 51. Serve for a point 53. Bottle top

ANSWER/LAST WEEK - PUZZLE NO. 790

VIRGO (August 23 - September 22)

It’s not the time to put up the decorations when the guests are arriving. It’s better to just take a deep breath, enjoy the moment and accept that not everything is perfect.

LIBRA (September 23 - October 22)

Far from being conventional, you decide on the spur of the moment to spend the holidays away. You look to other cultures to do things differently this year.

SCORPIO (October 23 - November 21)

HOW TO PLAY :

SAGITTARIUS (November 22 - December 21)

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

You’re particularly emotional during the holiday season this year. You decide to organize a small family reunion and experience the joy of intimate moments together. You finally decide to focus on your relationship just before the start of the holidays. Take some time away from your responsibilities to calm your worries.

CAPRICORN (December 22 - January 19)

To your great surprise, your boss entrusts you with added responsibilities. The new situation looks strangely like a promotion with a generous pay increase.

AQUARIUS (January 20 - February 18)

If you’re single, you’re sure to be very surprised to meet someone interesting at this time of year. Your self-esteem improves considerably.

PISCES (February 19 - March 20)

Virtually all the festivities take place at your house, even though it wasn’t planned that way. Take care to be very tactful with some family members in particular.

PUZZLE NO. 527

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 SOPHIE HOWDEN advertising@thefreepress.ca 250-423-4666

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THE FREE PRESS Thursday, December 17, 2015

Letters to Santa from Ms. Spregel’s kindergarten class Dear Santa,

Dear Santa,

I like that you give us presents. I would like you to bring me a remote control racecar. I hope you are have a great fly!

I am a good boy. Can I have a drum please? My mom said I was allowed to.

Hi! Why is it snowing? Can you get dad a guitar so he can play me music? Then he will have two. I want him to have two.

I love your red hat! Can you give lots of money to the people who can’t buy anything. They need food and groceries!

Love, Cole

Love Malakai

Dear Santa,

I like your reindeer! They are fun! Can you take my family to the movies? Maybe “Big Hero Six”. We would get popcorn. Merry Christmas! I love you!

There is snow in Fernie. I want a toy car please.

I like your red hat! I would like you to bring my sister some kind of game so I can play it with her. She likes to play with me! Merry Christmas!

You are great! I would like to give other kids toys because some kids don’t have any toys and I have lots. This would make me happy. Merry Christmas,

Love Ben

Love, Levi

Dear Santa,

How are you? I would like a Jeep that has a passenger seat and a front seat and two back seats. I love you!

Merry Christmas! I would like a remote control car for Christmas. Can you bring this? A red one.

I love Christmas. I would like some new clothes because I like fashion. Maybe a new sweater because I lost my old one. Merry Christmas,

I love Santa! Could you bring dad a truck because he really needs one for carrying wood? Thanks.

Love Marley

Love Oakley

Dear Santa,

Merry Christmas! Can you please bring my sister some more Trash Packs. She really likes them!

Can you bring me some transformers and Ninja Turtles? Thank you!

Dear Santa, I really want my own toy house that is made out of plastic and that comes with dollies. You are awesome! Love Avery

A division of

Love Avery A.

Lenaya

Love Keiran

Dear Santa,

Love Anika

Dear Santa,

Love Sunny

Thank you, Ema

Love Averie

How cold is the North Pole? Can you please bring my toy Stars Wars Lego. Thank you. Love River

Love Nolan

Dear Santa,

Which is your favourite reindeer? Can you bring me a mini figure castle that has mini princesses? Like mini ones? Merry Christmas!

What is it like at the North Pole? Can you bring my family a ski trip to the Fernie Ski Hill? I like to ski and I am learning. Merry Christmas!

I don’t really play with my robots anymore. You can have them. Can you bring me some Lego. Whatever kind! Thank you!

I have lots and lots of toys. I don’t need any. I would like to give away my rocking horse to help you. Could you give my mom some jewelry?

Love Lily

Love Sarika

Love Oliver

Thank you! Love Lilly

THE FREE PRESS Thursday, December 17, 2015

www.thefreepress.ca

We wish our friends, neighbours and customers a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year!

Thank you for your support and business throughout the year.

Associated with Legacy Auto Group

Where Quality & Service Meet Without Compromise 6165 Brenners Road, Fernie, BC • 250-423-9211 • www.fernieford.ca