The Free Press, December 24, 2015 by Black Press Media Group

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Chef competes on national TV - Page 15 SPARWOOD On Dec. 14, City Council voted in favour of an amendment to bylaw 2028, regarding mobile food vendors in the city. By Leah Scheitel Free Press Staff

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n Dec. 14, the City of Fernie council voted in favour of amending the Business Licensing and Regulation Bylaw 2028. The amendment is in reference to mobile food vendors and food trucks in Fernie. Under the new regulation, mobile food vendors are only allowed to operate between First and Second Avenue on Sixth Street, near Station Square in the downtown core. Outside of the downtown core, they have to be at least 50 metres away from a restaurant to operate legally, unless the mobile food vendor receives written permission from the food or beverage establishment. Street vendors can park outside of established food or beverage restaurants in the downtown core if they are not stationary for more than 30 minutes.

City Council gallery was busy, as people on both sides of the argument waited to give their opinion on the regulations. Council also received numerous letters and emails regarding the amendment, both for and against. Some concerns raised at the meeting were that while the amendment stipulated how near a vendor can stay in front of a restaurant, it did not specify how far they would have to move in order to operate again. Essentially, as the bylaw currently specifies, the mobile food vendor could be in one spot for up to a half hour, move 10-feet, and continuing operating legally. Another concern, brought forward by Sydney Salvador, owner of the Chopstick Truck, is that while the bylaw stipulates an assigned area for mobile food vendors, it does not delegate the spot specifically for them â&#x20AC;&#x201C; meaning if a vendor goes there to operate and all the spots are already taken by other vehicles, the truck cannot operate

for the day. The last concern raised was in regards to the noise that could be generated by food trucks appealing to late night crowds. Under the bylaw, food trucks are allowed to operate until 3 a.m., and some residents are concerned about the amount of noise pollution and litter that may cause. City Council cited this amendment as a step in the right direction, and understand that there may be more revisions and amendments in the future to address some of the concerns and others that may come through operation. City Council has been working on modeling a bylaw regarding food trucks for over two years. Council looked at models from other cities, including Kamloops, Victoria and Portland, among others, to model the bylaw amendment from.

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THE FREE PRESS Thursday, December 24, 2015

New coal mine project proposed near Sparwood By Bryn Catton Free Press Staff

oalMont, a Canadian subsidiary of CanAus Coal Limited has submitted a Project Description to develop a stand-alone, coking coal operation 15 km southeast of Sparwood. The Project area covers approximately 5,000 hectares or 500,000 acres. It sits between Teck’s Elkview and Coal Mountain mining operations. The Michel Creek Coking Coal Project is comprised of the companies coal licenses for Loop Ridge, Tent Mountain and Michel Head. According to a presentation provided by John Pumphrey,

Chief Operating Officer (COO) for CanAus Coal Limited, the mine will produce around two million tonnes of raw coal with the potential for more. “Annual production is estimated at 3.3 million tonnes of raw coal (2 million tonnes clean), with potential to increase clean coal output up to 3 million tonnes,” Pumphery said, citing the presentation that was made on Dec. 8. The mine will be an open pit layout with a minimum pit life expectancy of a decade. “The existing Loop Ridge Mine proposal has a potential for a pit life of approximately 10 years, however with the future addition of surrounding coal deposits, the life of the mine is beyond 20 years,” said Pumphrey. According to Pumphrey, the location is ideal for a mine. The area is adjacent to existing rail, road and power infrastructure. This means the company does not have to build roads, rail track or bring power to the mine site, saving them money. CanAus has been researching and working towards mining the land since 2013.

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“In 2013 CanAus focused on exploration drilling, environmental data collection, consultation and resource development. In 2014, a national instrument for the Standards of Disclosure for Mineral Projects within Canada (NI43-101) was completed. In 2014 Environmental Assessment teams were formed, and have ongoing work,” said Pumphrey. “In 2015 a pre-feasibility study for the Michel Creek Coking Coal Project was finished. In 2015, the BC Environmental Assessment Office issued an environmental assessment order for Loop Ridge Mine and is formally started. In 2015, CanAus acquired an option to purchase the land Jemi Fiber Corporation had in the Michel Creek Valley.” CanAus believes that they can strike equilibrium between sustainable practices and economics. “Through innovation and ‘design by consultation’, we believe that coal mining is achievable in a way that achieves a sustainable balance with project economics,” said Pumphrey. CanAus is looking to achieve this goal by creating teams with a focus on innovation and sustainability, public consultation, eliminating tailing ponds and traditional coal dryers.

Michael Delich appointed to CBT Board of Directors

to 2012 and Chair from 2013 to 2015. olumbia Basin “On behalf of the Trust’s Trust announces Board and staff, I would like s e v e r a l to thank Greg Deck for his updates to its Board of contributions to the formation Directors, including the and growth of the Trust,” said appointment of Rick Jensen. “For over 20 years, he Jensen as Chair and the has been an instrumental part retirement of current of this organization and has Chair Greg Deck. Local dedicated his efforts to the businessman, Michael well-being of our region and Delich, has also been its residents.” appointed to sit on the “I’d like to thank Greg Deck Board of Directors and is for his years of dedicated the lone representative service and leadership as from the Elk Valley. chair of the Trust, and for all “It is an honour to the help, sound guidance and serve on the Board of the advice he has shared with me Columbia Basin Trust and personally as a resident of the I’m proud to follow Ev Columbia Basin and in my Cutts, a previous Fernie work as an MLA and minister,” representative,” said Fernie local Michael Delich was said Minister of Energy and Delich in an email to The appointed to the Columbia Basin Mines Bill Bennett. Free Press. The Trust’s 12-member Trust Board of Directors last week. Delich was appointed Board consists of individuals Submitted photo for a one-year term, which appointed by the provincial will expire in December President of the Canadian government: six from the of 2016. Institute of Excellence and a five regional districts and the Delich is originally from director of Columbia Power Ktunaxa Nation Council, and Rossland, but has been in the Corporation. He has also six others. All directors must Elk Valley for 25 years. served as President and CEO live in the Basin. From Cranbrook, Jensen of Panorama Mountain Village. The Board meets five times is replacing Deck as Chair as The Trust also thanks and a year in communities around of January 1, 2016. He joined extends its best wishes to Greg the Basin. The public is invited the Trust Board in 2013 and Deck, who is now retiring. From to attend in order to meet the served as Vice-Chair in 2015. Radium Hot Springs, Deck directors and ask questions He is the Chair of New Dawn has been on the Board since about the organization’s work Developments, a director the Trust’s inception in 1995, in the Basin. The next meeting of New Dawn Restorations, serving as Vice-Chair from 2008 is in Nelson on Feb. 12, 2016. Submitted

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THE FREE PRESS Thursday, December 24, 2015

Teck charged for death of sheep Communities By Bryn Catton Free Press Staff

eck has been charged under the Environmental Management Act. On July 15, 2014 five bighorn sheep were found dead at Teck’s Greenhills Operations. Teck’s internal review found the deaths were due to injestion of a material used for blasting. Teck has said that they pledged to move forward and learn

from this event, creating new procedures and improving the ones that are currently in place to prevent this kind of thing from happening again. “Teck is committed to learning from incidents and taking the steps necessary to improve our performance. We have implemented improved procedures and facilities across our steelmaking coal operations to ensure an incident like this does not happen again,” said Robin Sheremeta, Vice President of Operations.

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.

Thank You From Our Entire Team 1792 9th Avenue, off Hwy. 3 Fernie

A division of

looking for new surgeon By Leah Scheitel Free Press Staff

he four Elk Valley governing bodies – Fernie, Sparwood, Elkford, and the Regional District of the East Kootenay (RDEK) Electoral A – are pooling their resources to finance the search for a new surgeon. The collaborative initiative is in preparation to replace the current surgeon serving the area, Dr. Colm Nally. “Our surgeon, Dr. Nally, is wanting to retire this summer sometime. He won’t leave our community without a surgeon, so if we can’t find one, he won’t retire,” said Mike Sosnowski, Director of Area A for the RDEK. “Talking with Dr. Clark and Dr. Michal, they said they felt we should start recruiting and they would do it, but they didn’t have any money to do it. So I made the motion that I would put in $10,000 if the other three communities in the Elk Valley – Elkford, Sparwood and Fernie – would do the same and they agreed. So we are funding that up to $40,000 if required.” The money will be managed by the City of Fernie, but a recruiting team comprised of local doctors will be able to rely on the pool of money to search for a new surgeon for the area. “When the four local governments realized that we had to step up to the plate and when we share things, the expense, it isn’t onerous for any one local government,” said Sosnowski. The funds from the RDEK came from a different tax imposed on local coal mining operations. “The coal mines in the Elk Valley are taxed a little differently than other properties. They are taxed through a tax sharing agreement that predetermines how much of their payment goes to each of the communities in the Elk Valley. A portion of that comes to Electoral Area A, so that’s the fund that this pot of money and grant is being paid out of,” said Shawn Tomlin, Chief Financial Officer for the RDEK. Sosnowski said that they are hoping to have a replacement for Dr. Nally by the time he is set to retire this upcoming summer.

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THE FREE PRESS Thursday, December 24, 2015

Conservation officers warn of wildlife hazards By Bryn Catton Free Press Staff

A fox was sighted behind Rocky Mountain Village on Dec. 18.

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We wish everyone in the Elk Valley and Crowsnest Pass a safe and happy holiday season.

here has been no new information or confirmed sightings of the cougar in the Fairy Creek area that was responsible for killing a dog a few weeks ago. If a cougar is seen please report it to the authorities immediately for investigation. “There have been no attacks, new information or confirmed sightings of this cougar in the Fairy Creek area reported to the Conservation Officer Service,” said Frank DeBoon a Conservation Officer for the Fernie area. “Any sightings or aggressive cougar behaviour around Fernie should be reported immediately to 1-877-952-7277 so that hounds can be used to locate the cougar and it can be removed, if deemed necessary, for public safety.” Photo by L. Scheitel During this time of year drivers that see wildlife will most often find deer and elk, or, depending on the region, bighorn sheep. DeBoon recommends that drivers slow down and warn other drivers by using their four-way flashers when safe to do so. He cautions that the majority of sightings will likely happen at dawn or dusk when the animals are most active. “The most common animals seen along the highways this time of year are deer and elk throughout the area and bighorn sheep between the tunnel and Elko on Highway 3,” said DeBoon. “Drivers should slow down if they see wildlife along the roads and drive to road conditions. Hazard lights can be used to advise oncoming traffic of animals on or near the roads. Be especially vigilant at dusk and dawn and watch ahead for any unusual driver behaviour, which could signal drivers avoiding animals on the road.” In the Elk Valley communities, foxes are being sighted more often. deBoon asks residents to refrain from feeding and conditioning these animals to people. “Foxes are becoming more common around Elk Valley communities and residents should avoid feeding them or conditioning them to people, as they can prey on cats and other small pets,” said DeBoon. Concerning hunting seasons, DeBoon notes that there is an open season for wolves and cougars at this time. He also adds that the biggest concern, especially for pet owners, is the trapping season. UP TO 75% OFF! 60% OFF! “Currently there is Paderno Belle Fleur fry pans feature a completely Cavendish flatware set, an open season for PFOA free, non-stick coating (interior & exterior) 4x5pc place setting. that is safe on all cooktops including induction. List: $99.99. cougars and wolves 22cm/8.6” Belle Fleur non-stick fry pan. but the biggest List: $99.99. Now $24.99! concern for pet 26cm/10.5” Belle Fleur non-stick fry pan. List: $109.99. Now $29.99! owners is the trapping season. Snares and other killing traps are being used by trappers and dogs can get caught in them if $3999 they are unleashed SPECIAL! or running at large,” Paderno vegetable spiral slicer - makes spiral cuts said DeBoon. for many of your favourite vegetables and fruit. “Watch for signs Comes with three interchangeable stainless steel blades, no-slip suction bottom, and advising of traps makes perfect cuts in just seconds. in areas you are List: $41.99. recreating in-cross country skiing, snowshoeing, etc. and $2699 keep dogs restrained. Another concern can ON NOW THRU DECEMBER 31ST ONLY AT: be dogs running into INVERMERE aggressive moose FERNIE Invermere Home Hardware or deer, particularly Fernie Home Hardware 9980 Arrow Road if they run ahead of Building Centre their owners.” 300 Manitou Road DeBoon encourages CRANBROOK the public to inform Home Hardware the conservation Building Centre office of any major 1901 McPhee Road wildlife sightings. SON NA

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THE FREE PRESS Thursday, December 24, 2015

Tim Hortons receives warm welcome in Sparwood

surprised with how the night shifts have gone. “Hopefully we keep it like that. n Dec. 11, the much It’s been busy overnight. I’ve been -anticipated Tim Hortons in really surprised by that.” Sparwood opened its doors The biggest hurdle to currently for its first day of operation. Mark overcome is the daily demand Nelson, owner of the new location, for doughnuts. The store isn’t reported that the first day was able to keep up with the amount busy, and it hasn’t really slowed of doughnuts ordered, which is down since then. putting stress on the baking staff, “The opening weekend was very most of whom are new. busy. We had a hard time keeping “Doughnuts are going faster up. It’s kind of leveled off a little than we can make them. We have bit now, but for a new location, this adjusted our orders accordingly one has been the busiest location now, but our bakers are new and for daily sales so far for any of the they are struggling to handle that, other two that I have ever opened,” which is completely expected,” said he told The Free Press. Nelson. “I’m actually working some Nelson and his wife are the owners night shifts tonight and tomorrow of four Tim Hortons locations. They night with the bakers to figure opened their first one in Pincher out how to meet the demand. I’m Creek, Alta. about five years ago getting a lot of big doughnut orders and their second in Fort McLeod early in the morning and it’s hard. after that. Last year, they purchased By about 6 a.m. the showcase is the Blairmore location. When it looking pretty empty because most came time to find owners for the of the doughnuts are spoken for Sparwood location, the Nelsons before we even get our initial bake were a natural choice. finished. It’s kind of cool, but at the “To be honest, Tim Hortons has same time, it’s kind of terrifying. been working on opening one here If you don’t have doughnuts or for quite some time. Basically, they Mark Nelson, owner of the newly opened Tim Hortons in Sparwood, says he has been pleasantly anything in your showcase and you Photo by L. Scheitel would have done it with or without surprised with the number of customers the restaurant has already seen. can’t sell anything, people get pretty me but, being closer to it, and with very exciting, so we usually have a good of them have no experience at all. But upset by that.” another location down the road, they turn out for the opening crew and staff,” they are catching on very quick. I am very Nelson added that he has full confidence decided to offer it to us,” he said. said Nelson. “We are just about full on happy with them so far.” in his new employees and says that the With the exception of the store manager, staff. Training is very hard because there Thus far, the Sparwood location has been small hiccups will likely sort themselves Nelson has hired local residents. is over 30 new people and local staff. Most open 24-hours a day, and Nelson has been out within three weeks. “The initial opening of Tim Hortons is By Leah Scheitel Free Press Staff

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

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.

Food Bank Fundraiser a Success!

On December 13th, Elkford Fire Rescue hosted a well-attended and successful Christmas Food Bank Fundraiser. The event saw families sledding, mingling, and enjoying a BBQ and hot chocolate. All food was available by cash donation and a total of $900.00 was raised for the Elkford Food Bank! In addition, Elkford Community Cinema showed Home Alone, and all proceeds from the cinema were donated to the Food Bank. Thank you to all who attended, donated and showed support for the Elkford Food Bank.

The District of Elkford Mayor, Council and Staff wish you and yours a Merry Chrismtas and prosperous New Year!

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.

2016 Dog License Renewals

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.

THE FREE PRESS Thursday, December 24, 2015

Opinion

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

Production Manager Bonny McLardy Creative Laura Burke Member of

Circulation Jennifer Cronin

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

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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.

Editorial by Leah Scheitel

The one event that has caused nearly as much excitement and anticipation as the actual holiday season is the release of the newest Star Wars movie. The Vogue Theatre in Fernie nearly sold out of all of their weekend showings, making it the most profitable movie of the year. The timing of Star Wars to be released during the holiday season was no accident and to me it makes more than just financial sense. The Star Wars franchise has a history of benevolence that complements the Christmas spirit. The most recent example of the good will Star Wars stimulates was last month, when director JJ Abrams held a private viewing for Daniel Fleetwood. Fleetwood, who was 32, was terminally ill, with a very aggressive form of cancer, and his dying wish was to see the newest installment before he passed. “If I get to see the movie, I might actually die of happiness,” Fleetwood told People magazine. The campaign to support Fleetwood gained traction on the Internet, with the hashtag #ForceforDaniel trending on Twitter. Mark Hamilton, who played Luke Skywalker in the original series, said he was elated that Abrams held a private viewing for Fleetwood. He saw the movie just days before he passed away on Nov. 10, and if seeing Star Wars eased his pain at all, the campaign was entirely worth it. The franchise’s history of benevolence goes deeper with that, much of it coming from its creator, George Lucas. When Lucas sold Disney the rights to Star Wars in the fall of 2012, he donated most of the $4 billion sale to education initiatives. “I am dedicating the majority of my wealth to improving education. It is the key to the survival of the human race,” Lucas wrote in a pledge letter. “We have a plan for our collective future – and the first step begins with the social, emotional and intellectual tools we provide to our children. As humans, our greatest tool for survival is our ability to think and to adapt – as educators, storytellers and communicators, our responsibility is to do so.” With an attitude like that, “The Empire Gives Back” would be a better title for one of his movies. Admittedly, I’m not the biggest fan of Star Wars or the holiday season. But I am a fan of events and initiatives that remind me of the good in people. These two things do just that. I hope everyone enjoys their holiday season, with Star Wars or anything else that makes them smile.

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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.

Leah Scheitel EDITOR

Bryn Catton REPORTER

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

Letter to the Editor re: Paris Summit

Letters to the Editor Letter to the Editor re: OffLeash Dogs On a recent beautiful winter day, my run on the Fernie dike trail was a bit tarnished by off-leash dogs. First, I was charged by an exuberant, large black dog. “Don't worry,” said her owner, “She's ok”. But I certainly wasn't ok. It's not ok for an animal I don't know to run up to me and try to put her paws on my chest, friendly or not. About five minutes later, a couple held their two dogs (breeds known for their strength) by their collars as I ran past. On my return trip, I called out to this family to warn them of my approach, but the dogs acted too quickly and ran at me, charging into me hard enough that I stumbled. “This is why we

usually hold onto them”, said one half of the couple. We were on the dike trail, an area where what's required is leashes, not just holding. After being rammed a second time by these dogs, I felt intimidated enough to descend from the dike and finish my run on city streets. Many animals enjoy a frolic outside on a beautiful day. But coexisting with domesticated animals on public property works best when the rules are followed. If you own a dog, please leash it where required so that we can all make the most of being outdoors together. Your hands and voice are no substitute for a leash, and my body is not a dog toy. Heather Kerr Fernie, B.C.

Negotiations are difficult by nature. Managing negotiations between 195 countries is nearly impossible. This was the dilemma facing the negotiators of the Paris climate Summit. To solve it they brought in a unique management strategy. The trick to getting through over-complicated negotiations comes from the Zulu people of South Africa, called “induba”. Instead of repeating stated positions, each party is encouraged to speak personally, and state the “red lines” they are unwilling to cross. While telling others their hard limits, they must provide solutions to find common grounds. “Including everyone and allowing even hostile countries to speak, achieved a remarkable breakthrough,” writes The Guardian. An historic first, the Agreement was adopted without objection. As Ottawa now turns to reaching a detailed national climate strategy with the provinces by early March while also moving toward a North American agreement, it would do well to utilize this effective strategy that brought consensus to vastly different nations. After all, we may be a diverse population, but we are one Canada. Yvonne James Nakusp, B.C.

Letter to the Editor re: A plea for help

Do you have something to say? We’d love to hear from you. Please send your Letters to the Editor to editor@thefreepress.ca.

I am a 54-year-old disabled man fighting M.S. One year and 10 months ago I was a victim in my own backyard - I was beaten into the ground by three or more men. Both of my dogs were taken and I am waiting for one year and 10 months for some justice. I was told to go to small claims court to seek compensation for my personal injuries. I was told that I have to take the summons for the small claims court to the men who helped beat me up myself. I cannot afford to pay someone fifty dollars to take the summons over for me. Fifty dollars is a lot of money for me. I thought I could get a personal injury lawyer to take my case but I couldn’t get one lawyer in Fernie or Cranbrook to take my case. What is so hard about my case? I am a disabled man who got beaten into the ground and there is not one lawyer to help me claim for personal injuries in the area. Even legal aid for low-income people told me that they don’t help victims anymore. Why should I go to Calgary or Vancouver to get help? This is not fair to me. I am not a punching bag for people to hit. I am a human being who needs help. Darcy Bruno Elko, B.C.

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THE FREE PRESS Thursday, December 24, 2015

Accidents close a section of Highway 3 over weekend

By Bryn Catton Free Press Staff

n Dec. 19, four vehicle accidents occurred within a few hours along Highway 3 between Sparwood and Coleman, Alta. Three of four accidents were single car incidents while the fourth, which stopped the highway for three hours, was between two transport trucks.

“Within a two hour span we had four accidents,” said Sgt. Will Thien of the Elk Valley RCMP. “It was still extremely icy between Sparwood and Coleman on the Alberta side. That usually gets that way because the trees cover the road. The sun comes out and melts the stuff on the road but doesn’t really dry anything.”

Thien said that no one was seriously injured, but one accident did have a driver attended to by paramedics. “We started with one vehicle off-road five kilometers east of Sparwood. The vehicle flipped into the ditch, the three occupants were not injured. Shortly after that, a single vehicle did not roll, but went off the highway and landed in Michel Creek. The two occupants of the vehicle did not sustain any injuries that we know of,” said Thien. “The third one was about 10:30 a.m. This driver was attended to by an ambulance but released with minor injuries if any.” Due to previous accidents being cleared from the highway the first transport was stopped waiting for the roadway to be

cleared of debris. It is believed that due to weather conditions the second transport rear-ended the first transport. “I think what happened was the first truck was stopped because the highway crews and emergency services were dealing with the three collisions prior. By this time, the road was a bit wet and the sun was above the eastbound lane and caused some glare,” said Thien. “The second transport truck collided into the back of the first one. According to the transport that did the rear-ending there was some glare from the road in their eyes.” It’s believed that the second transport hit the first with speed. The driver of the second truck was brought to the hospital but soon released with what is believed to be

minor injuries. “We do not have any exact speeds but the collision was witnessed by the Sparwood Fire Department and they estimate the speed to be 80 or 90 km. The cab was demolished and the driver had to be extracted by the firefighters and he was transported to the hospital for precautionary reasons,” said Thien. “It was determined the driver sustained only minor bruising and cuts, maybe a mild concussion but that is not for us to formally release because we do not know.” The last accident shut down the highway for three hours before being partially re-opened via an alternating single lane of Highway 3. Thien reminded everyone to drive with caution at this time of year.

Fernie residents on the new Star Wars movie Question: Are you excited that Disney is continuing to make Star Wars movies? Mike Harrison manager of Vogue Theatre

David and Karen Macdonald

Allen Ivanco “This is the first time I have seen it. I am excited for everything, I saw the first one when I was four, I’m 42 now and I am a big fan. I still have all the original toys.”

“I’ve seen it. We had a sell out Thursday, almost sold out last night and tonight will probably sell out. It is definitely the biggest film we have had this year. That just means we hang on to it longer.”

“It’s our second time seeing it, it’s an enjoyable experience, fun and makes you feel like a kid again,” said David. “We watched them all before we came to this one,” said Karen.

enhancing the

Construction and General Contracting Taking on Residential and Commercial projects 250.423.1871 ferniecontracting@gmail.com

economic future

Sports Injury Rehabilitation • Custom Foot Orthotics • Concussion Evaluation and Treatment • Bracing Proud to Provide ONE-ON-ONE Injury Rehabilitation. Always. FernieAthleticTherapy.com 250-423-4800 1-888-423-9006

of fernie

Monthly networking events:

Fresh • Food • Fast 561A 2nd Avenue

Coffee & Conversations Banter, business & beer

Educational session:

Hosting timely sessions on a variety of topics Discover the business advantages in Fernie and the Kootenay region InvestKootenay.com

Saving you money:

Discounted group insurance Savings on office supplies Merchant service discounts Shipping savings

Basin Business Advisors Program

Need business advice? The Basin Business Advisors Program provides free business counselling to small business owners and social enterprises. For advice contact: Bob Bougie, BBA Business Advisor, 250.489.4356 ext. 108 bbougie@bbaprogram.ca A PROGRAM OF

www.bbaprogram.ca

www.ferniechamber.com facebook.com/ ferniechamberofcommerce @ferniechamber

Business Retention and Expansion Survey

Taking the pulse of the business community. Call the Fernie Chamber to participate 250.423.6868 SPONSORED BY

ADMINISTERED & MANAGED BY

Contact the Chamber to discuss becoming a member - 250.423.6868

www.thefreepress.ca

THE FREE PRESS Thursday, December 24, 2015

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

Star Wars: The Force Awakens VII 3D

Saturday, Dec 26 - Thursday, Dec 31

Rated PG • 7 & 9:30 pm Nightly 3 pm Matinees Daily

Holiday Hours:

Daddy’s Home

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

Rated PG • 7 pm & 9 Nightly 3 pm Matinees Daily

Closed Christmas Day

ADD IT ONLINE

321-2 Avenue, Fernie

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

Event submissions are FREE!

250-423-7111 Movieline

go to:

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. • 3:30 to 5:30pm - Red Cross 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. • 5:30 to 6:30pm – Lane Swim at the Spwd Pool • 6:30pm - Ladies Archery at the Elks Hall • 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 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 • 9:00 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 • 3:00 to 8:00pm – Public Swim and Lane Swim at F.A.C. • 3:30 to 5:30pm - Red Cross Swim at F.A.C. • 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 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. • 3:30 to 5:30pm - Red Cross Swim at F.A.C. • 3:45 to 4:45pm – Swim Club at the E.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

E.A.C. • 12:00 to 1:00pm – Lane Swim at the Spwd Pool • 12:00 to 1:00pm – Skate & Shoot at Spwd Arena • 3:00 to 8:00pm – Public Swim and Lane Swim at F.A.C. • 3:45 to 4:45pm – Swim Club at the E.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. • 1:30 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 • 7:30pm – A.A. Meeting, Christ Church Anglican, 591 4th Ave. Ferni

UPCOMING EVENTS DECEMBER 24 24 24 29 31 31

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

16 23 29 30 31

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 Kokanee Snow Dreams Festival, Fernie Alpine Resort Fernie Ghostriders vs. Columbia Valley Stoke Folk the Party, Fernie Community Centre Snowed In Comedy Tour, The Northern

FEBRUARY 6 6 8

Fernie Snowdrags, Demo Derby Grounds on Railway Ave. Fernie Ghostriders vs. Creston Valley, Fernie Arena Fernie Ghostriders vs. Kimberley, Fernie Arena

www.thefreepress.ca

CITY OF FERNIE BRITISH COLUMBIA

THE FREE PRESS Thursday, December 24, 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

Fernie On Fire Fundraiser

Holiday Hours at City Hall City Hall will be closed the following dates over the 2015 Holiday Season: December 25 (Friday) December 28 (Monday) January 1 (Friday) We wish you a Safe and Happy Holiday Season!

What do you do with your Christmas tree after the big day comes around? What you CAN do this year is put your tree out on your front yard curb by 8am January 9 to be picked up by our local firefighters. Then come out in the afternoon and enjoy a community event starting at 4pm at the Aquatic Centre where the trees will be set ablaze to light up the toboggan hill for you to enjoy! There will be music, street hockey, BBQ, hot chocolate, 50/50 and raffles for some very generous donations from local businesses. All proceeds will be donated to the Fernie Pets Society for construction of the Off Leash Dog Park at the base of Ridgemont Avenue just past the Bottle Depot. Don’t miss it!

Mobile Vending in Fernie

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

For those citizens looking to find your favorite mobile food truck head to 6th Street between 1st and 2nd Avenue. Business Licencing and Regulation Bylaw No. 2028, Amendment No. 2, Bylaw No. 2285, 2015 & the Mobile Vending Operating Guidelines were adopted by Council on Monday, December 14 at their Regular Meeting. These documents provide the conditions by which Mobile Vendors will be permitted to operate in the City of Fernie and comply with relevant municipal laws/policies and Provincial & Federal legislation.

Office Hours: Mon.-Fri. 8 am-5 pm (Closed statutory holidays) After Hours Phone: 250.423.4226

For further information regarding the operating guidelines and bylaw please go to www.fernie.ca.

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. Recycling 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

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!

Leisure Services HOLIDAY SCHEDULE 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.

www.thefreepress.ca

THE FREE PRESS Thursday, December 24, 2015

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

www.sparwood.ca

Upcoming Meetings of Council Monday, December 21, 2015

(in Council Chambers)

Regular Meeting at 7:00 pm

Monday, January 4, 2016

MEETING CANCELLED

Monday, January 18, 2016

Regular Meeting at 7:00 pm

2016 COUNCIL MEETING SCHEDULE

District of Sparwood 136 Spruce Avenue, PO Box 520, Sparwood BC V0B 2G0 Phone: 250.425.6271 | Email: sparwood@sparwood.ca | Website: www.sparwood.ca Regular District of Sparwood Council meetings are held on the first and third Monday of each month (except when the meeting falls on a statutory holiday, then it is held on the next day that the District Office is open) in Council Chambers, 136 Spruce Avenue, Sparwood, BC. The meeting on the first Monday is held at 1:00 pm and the one on the third Monday is at 7:00 pm. Meetings are televised on Shaw Cable on Tuesdays at 6:00 pm and again on Fridays at 11:00 am. Meeting videos are also available on the District’s website at www.sparwood.ca/councilmeetings and on our Facebook page at www.facebook.com/sparwood.bc. Council Meeting Date January 4, 2016

January 18, 2016

February 1, 2016

February 15, 2016

Time CANCELLED

7:00 pm

1:00 pm

7:00 pm

March 7, 2016

1:00 pm

March 21, 2016

7:00 pm

April 4, 2016

April 18, 2016

May 2, 2016

May 16, 2016

June 6, 2016

June 20,2016

1:00 pm

7:00 pm

1:00 pm

7:00 pm

1:00 pm

7:00 pm

Council Meeting Date July 4, 2016

July 18, 2016

August 2, 2016

August 15, 2016

Tuesday, September 6, 2016

September 19, 2016

October 3, 2016

October 17, 2016

November 7, 2016

November 21, 2016

December 5, 2016

December 19, 2016

CANCELLED

7:00 pm

CANCELLED

7:00 pm

1:00 pm 7:00 pm

1:00 pm

7:00 pm

1:00 pm

7:00 pm

1:00 pm

7:00 pm

Committee of the Whole (COTW) Meetings are held on the last Monday of the month and commence at 1:00 pm in the Council Chambers of the Municipal Ofﬁce, 136 Spruce Avenue, Sparwood, BC. COTW Meeting Date

February 29, 2016

Tuesday, March 29, 2016

April 25, 2016

May 30, 2016

June 27, 2016

Time

1:00 pm

COTW Meeting Date

July 25, 2016

August 29, 2016

Time

CANCELLED

1:00 pm

September 26, 2016

CANCELLED

1:00 pm

October 31, 2016

1:00 pm

November 28, 2016

1:00 pm

This schedule of Regular and Committee of the Whole meeting dates is available throughout the year on the District’s website at www.sparwood.ca and at the District Ofﬁce and is subject to change with notice. Michelle Martineau Director of Corporate Services

Business Licences

The District of Sparwood Animal Control Bylaw requires every dog to have a current year licence by January 15. A neutered or spayed dog tag, with vet certificate, is $10.00 or $30.00 for an unaltered dog. Why licensing your dog should be your number one priority: • If your dog gets lost, even in a neighbouring community, a licence is the fastest way to reunite you with your dog. Even if your dog is microchipped, a licence tag is immediately visible and doesn’t require a scanning device. Dogs are often returned by contacting the dog’s owner at their address on file with the District; • Your dog’s licence shows that you are a responsible dog owner. When you walk your dog people will notice the licence on your dog’s collar and know that you really care about your dog’s welfare; • Licensing lets others know that your dog is not a stray. Often found dogs are kept by the people who find them, who assume an unlicensed dog is a stray; and • It’s the law! Failure to licence your dog by January 15 may result in tickets and impound fees. For more information, or to renew or purchase a dog licence please contact the District Office at 250.425.6271 or at 136 Spruce Avenue.

Time

Items for inclusion in the agenda must be received by the Corporate Ofﬁcer by noon on the Wednesday preceding the meeting. Anyone wishing to address Council may do by submitting an “Application to Appear Before Council as a Delegate or Delegation” prior to the deadline. Applications are available on the District’s website, by fax or request at the front counter.

January 25, 2016

Dog 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.

Mayor, Council and Staff of the District of Sparwood Extend Their Very Best Wishes for the Holiday Season We wish you all Peace, Happiness and Good Health in 2016 Please Drive Safely Over the Holidays

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 24, 2015

What’s on in the Elk Valley this week.

Fernie Library hosts an all ages Christmas celebration

everywhere.” Dressler believes the two biggest he Fernie Heritage public draws to Library invited the event are the the community caroling and an to their seventh annual appearance from Christmas Celebration the North Pole’s on Dec. 19. The two-hour biggest celebrity, event had something for Santa. everyone, including all “The two big ages caroling and crafts things are music, for kids. The event has getting a chance to steadily been growing sing together with and brings in a larger your neighbours portion of the public and the other every year. part is the story“This is our seventh telling. We even year doing the event get a special and we usually get visitor from the anywhere between 400 North Pole in the to 500 people coming afternoon,” said through. It’s a big spread Kids enjoyed a reading of The Night Before a Canadian Christmas during the Dressler. of ages, anywhere from Library’s Christmas Celebration on Dec. 19. Photo by B. Catton Events like this babies to the elderly. do more than homes have had senior easier and more comfortable What is really lovely is that just bring the community groups attend the event for for seniors who attend the people are adding it to their to the library; they morph the past few years. While event. holiday calendars,” said there were some seniors at “Sometimes they even ride the definition of the public Emma Dressler, Library the celebration, the snow and the bus. It didn’t work out library into something more Director. “It’s changing all weather made it difficult to get this year but we do have some than a book-based building. the time. At the beginning “We pride ourselves as the to the event. That didn’t stop that came out. And that’s it was only for children and the library from adapting the why we started to put chairs library, we call ourselves the families with young children. event to fit the seniors. They out and offer tea, just to make community living room. The Now we have made it into a have added chairs and tea them more comfortable,” said idea you can just come in community celebration.” and relax. You don’t have to to their offerings to make it Dressler. Community retirement From ukulele be here a certain time. They supported Christmas come they go, they enjoy it,” carols on the main floor to said Dressler. This can be seen by the movies in the basement there was something number of volunteers that being offered on every donate their time to the event. The age and background floor of the Library. “Upstairs we have of the events volunteers children storytelling, on range,from retired locals and the main floor we have seasonal workers to high hot apple cider, crafts, school students. “We have loads of and caroling with some ukulele and most of that volunteers as well. People happens at quarter after serving cider, doing crafts, 3,” said Dressler. “We and they volunteer their time do a peace chain at the which is really kind,” said front when guests come Dressler. “There are young in. One of the things people that come too, we people always love is our have skiers that are down for Christmas cards, so we the season that are in their do that at the front as early 20s and come in and Participants enjoyed putting a circle on the peace chain upon well. We have it so there volunteer their help.” is something going on entry to the event. Photo by B. Catton By Bryn Catton Free Press Staff

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THE FREE PRESS Thursday, December 24, 2015

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Choir concert entertains crowd

faces of the valley

Santa Claus

The Fernie Community Choir dazzled a large audience on Dec. 18 at the Holy Family Catholic Church. Conductor David Pasivirta led the choir to sing songs from J. Brahms, Mozart and Melchior Franck among others. At the end of the concert the crowd all joined in to sing some favourite Christmas carols. Photos courtesy of R. Greene

By Jennifer Cronin Free Press Staff

anta Claus took time out of his busy schedule to sit down and answer some very important questions this past week. In person, he is as rotund and jolly as all of his pictures make him out to be. With his bushy white beard, and long hair, he looks just like his pictures! I wanted to ask him if he ever trimmed his beard, but I forgot! Next year for sure! Santa eased into the big armchair and settled in with a jolly laugh. I have always wanted to know how he gets into houses that don’t have a chimney. “I sometimes come in the front door, as Mommy and Daddy will leave it unlocked,” Santa said. I have a big dog, and I needed to know why she never barked at Santa. “I keep dog biscuits in my pocket for them,” he chuckled as he pulled one out with his gloved hand to show me. Santa knows if children have been naughty or nice as he has many many elves that keep a close eye on all of the children. “There are hundreds of elves, and they are not always small. Some look just like regular people. You could be walking down the street and pass an elf and you would never even know it,” Santa shares. “The elves are busy all year round. They take turns looking after the reindeer, cleaning the stalls and grooming and feeding them. There are elves who cook for the toy-making elves, and they all pitch in and load the sleigh. All of the toys fit on the sleigh at once, as Santa’s bag is loaded very carefully,” Santa confides. Santa even conceded that every now and again, one of the elves falls into his sack of toys, and it may be quite some time until he is found! All of the letters that get sent to the North Pole are read by Santa, Mrs. Claus and the elves, and a list is carefully made of what each little boy and girl would like for Christmas. This year Santa has had a lot of requests for Lego and hover boards. Santa admits that he cannot always bring what children ask for as sometimes he runs out of things, but he will always bring something special that he has chosen with love. Santa admits “When children ask for nice things for others that is my favourite request.” The reindeer only fly one night a year, and it is magic, and Rudolf is still the leader of all the reindeer. His bright nose shines in the dark sky and lights the way to all of the cities of the world. Even when there is no snow on the rooftops, the reindeer land softly so as not to wake the sleeping children. Santa slips down the chimney, or through an open window or door, and leaves gifts. His favourite cookie is a soft and chewy chocolate chip cookie. He admits that the crunchy ones leave lots of crumbs in his beard. The reindeer are especially fond of carrots and apples. Santa and the elves do not take holidays, as there is nothing in the world that can compare to their life at the North Pole. The workshop is filled with happy elves, and Mrs. Claus is busy knitting scarves, mittens and sweaters, and even making Santa’s red suits. There is magic everywhere in the workshop, and singing fills the air. “It is terribly important to be polite, as it shows respect for other people, and it benefits everyone. Santa likes to see children with good manners,” Santa said, and then as quickly as he arrived, he was off again once more to check his list in preparation for Christmas Eve! With a HO HO HO and a Merry Christmas, Santa Claus is this week’s “face of the valley”.

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THE FREE PRESS Thursday, December 24, 2015

In the Saint Nick of Time Craft Fair

The “In the Saint Nick of Time Craft Fair” was hosted at the Fernie Community Centre last Saturday. Photo by B. Catton By Bryn Catton Free Press Staff

any vendors attended the “In the Saint Nick of Time” Craft Fair and products ranged from apple cider to jewelry. The craft fair was hosted at the Fernie Community Centre and ran from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Dec. 19. It is the fourth fair in a series organized by Fernie Craft Fairs. Artisans set up their booths

A division of

inside and outside of the Fernie Community Centre. Claude Poirier of Breaking Bread Bakery believes that if it were not for the conscious decision of buying quality, local items he would not have the opportunity to be at the event. “We are doing artisanal sourdough breads. People are getting more and more conscious and they just want our product. Five years ago I would not have been able to sell this bread,” said Poirier.

Above: Claude Poirier from Breaking Bread Bakery is a regular on the craft fair circuit. Below: This was the fourth in a series of craft fairs held throughout the year. Photos by B. Catton

Sales, fairs and farmer’s markets are the main way that Poirer sells his handmade bread. “It’s a bakery but we don’t have a physical place. We only sell at farmers markets and Christmas fairs,” said Poirier. Unfortunately, Poirier believes that the weather had a negative effect on attendance. “This one is a little slower than the previous one. I think it is from the snow, it is still good for us though,” said Poirier.

#UsedHelps

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THE FREE PRESS Thursday, December 24, 2015

COTR partners with UVic Submitted

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

Let us know who it is, and we will share it in next week’s edition! Local Birthdays December 22 Rod McKay, Happy 50th!!!

Do you know someone who has an upcoming birthday?

Just email their name and birth date (no year required) to Jen at customerservice@thefreepress.ca or call 250-423-4666 and we will publish it in

The Free Press

Special to The Free Press - tell us your birthday wishes and give the recipient’s phone number and on their birthday they will receive a special call from a talented local singer with a very special birthday song.

Celebrity Birthdays December 24 Ryan Seacrest, 40 December 25 Emma Slater, 26 December 26 Andy Biersack, 24 December 27 Salman Khan, 49 December 28 John Legend, 36 December 29 Ross Lynch, 19 December 30 Tiger Woods, 39

R DE K Ho liday Hours Fernie Transfer Station

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

December 24 December 25 December 26 December 31 January 1

9:00am to 3:00pm Closed 10:00am to 4:00pm 9:00am to 3:00pm Closed

fficials from College of the Rockies and the University of Victoria have signed two new partnership agreements for guaranteed admission to a broad range of UVic degree programs. The new dual admission and guaranteed admission agreements will greatly expand educational opportunities for local students. College of the Rockies students will have access to a host of new degree pathways, while remaining home for the first two years, providing significant cost savings over the course of a fouryear degree. Through the dual admission agreement, eligible high school students can apply for dual admission to both College of the Rockies and UVic with one application package. Students accepted for dual admission are guaranteed a seat in select degree programs at UVic after two years of study at the college with satisfactory grades. The guaranteed admission agreement provides guaranteed UVic admission to students who have already begun their studies at College of the Rockies. Under the guaranteed admission agreement, eligible college students with acceptable grades are guaranteed a seat in selected UVic Bachelor degree programs. Eligible College of the Rockies programs includes Fine Arts, Pre-Education, University Arts and University Science. Most UVic Bachelor degree programs in science, the humanities and social science are included in the agreements. Pre-education students at the College transfer to the UVic/East Kootenay Teacher Education program, held at the Cranbrook main campus, after completing 10 courses. “Students who take advantage of these new agreements will not only have a guaranteed spot in their degree program but will have access to co-op program opportunities, academic advising and scholarships from both institutions. In addition, students from the East Kootenay region, who remain at home during their first two years, can see a savings of at least $20,000 $25,000 over those who complete their entire four years at a university,” said College of the Rockies Vice-President, Academic and Applied Research,

Sparwood Transfer Station

(Regular Hours: 9:00am to 5:00pm Monday to Saturday)

December 24 December 25 December 26 December 31 January 1 January 2

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

Elkford Transfer Station

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

December 24 December 25 December 26 December 31 January 1

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

RDEK Cranbrook Office

8:30am to 3:00pm Closed 8:30am to 3:00pm 8:30am to 3:00pm Closed

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

Submitted photo

Stan Chung in a press release. “At College of the Rockies, we recognize that each student has their own path to follow when pursuing post-secondary education, and we are committed to creating new opportunities for students in the East Kootenay region to reach their goals,” said College President and CEO David Walls. “We have seen that students who start their post-secondary education at the College before moving on to university to complete a degree have a very high rate of success. These new agreements give our students additional options to continue to succeed.” In May 2015 the British Columbia Council on Admission and Transfer (BCCAT) reported on transfer student success among B.C. postsecondary institutions. The report found that College of the Rockies transfer students excel after transfer to a new institution, graduating with among the highest grade-point-averages in the province for transfer students. Further, 85 per cent of College of the Rockies transfer students completed their degree – the highest completion rate of transfer students from any B.C. institution. For Dr. Catherine Mateer, Associate VicePresident for Academic Planning at UVic, the new agreements are a perfect fit with student needs. “The University of Victoria is delighted to build on its longstanding partnerships with College of the Rockies in developing new innovative admission agreements that provide more accessible degree pathways for students in Southeastern B.C. In our experience, B.C. college trained students are wellprepared to succeed when they arrive at UVic. Starting postsecondary education at the College allows students to live at home and work toward their goals while saving money. When they begin their studies at UVic, they know what they want to study and have the confidence to do well. It’s our pleasure to work together to put more university degrees within reach of B.C. students.”

KYLE KYLE HAMILTON HAMILTON PHOTOGRAPHY PHOTOGRAPHY

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

December 24 December 25 December 26 December 31 January 1

College of the Rockies Vice-President Academic & Applied Research Stan Chung and Dr. Catherine Mateer from UVic sign two new partnership agreements as Dean of Instruction Heather Hepworth, Dean of Instruction Darrell Bethune, Director of Student Affairs Doris Silva and Dean of Instruction Jack Moes look on.

250 250423 4230904 0904 www.kylehamiltonphotography.com www.kylehamiltonphotography.com

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THE FREE PRESS Thursday, December 24, 2015

Fernie chef to be featured on Chopped Canada By Bryn Catton Free Press Staff

an Worth will be the second Fernie chef to appear on Food Network’s highest rated Canadian original series of the year, Chopped Canada, a program where four chefs compete for $10,000 by making the best three-course meal possible with a limited amount of time and a basket full of mystery ingredients that must be used. Worth has some big shoes to fill as he follows Barrie Elliott to prime time television. Elliott, who was then the head chef at the Livery Restaurant, won the competition last year. “When I applied for the show I didn’t know there would be someone on from Fernie. I had some pretty big shoes to fill, she did really well,” said Worth. Worth and his wife are owners of the ice cream shop, Happy Cow Ice Cream and Desserts in Fernie, where he makes hand made ice cream from ingredients that he often grows himself. Worth owned a restaurant for ten years prior to opening the Happy Cow where he worked as the head chef. Chopped Canada is Dan Worth’s favourite culinary show and he wanted to see if he could be a chef again. “I love the show. My wife Wendy and I used to have a restaurant in New Brunswick for 10 years and I was the chef there. It has been a few years since I was in a restaurant kitchen so I just thought I’d like to get back in there and see if I can still do it,” said Worth. Before the competition began, Worth did not get to interact with his competitors or

the judges. “I didn’t really know any of them until we started cooking. I didn’t get a chance to skulk my competitors to figure out what their strengths and weaknesses are. We just met that morning so I had no idea what they were good at,” he said. To Worth, the excitement was more than just the cooking. It was the progression from start to finish. “For me it was the whole process, between the application, the interviews, getting accepted. That was pretty amazing. And then because it is one of my favourite cooking competitions it was pretty surreal to be standing there in the Chopped Canada kitchen. I had to pinch myself to see if I am still really here. I admire the judges so to be standing in front of them was a real honour,” said Worth. “At the end of it all it was just an amazing experience. For me it was a matter of following my heart and putting myself out there. That was the big thing for me.” Worth was glad to see that what viewers see on screen is almost identical to what the contestant goes through. “The cool thing about it is what you see on TV is what actually happens. No one has an advantage,” he said. “Everyone gets the same ingredients, everyone finds out at the same time, you don’t get a lot of time, once you open your basket it’s time to go. As far as cooking competitions to me, this is chef against chef. If you have a good day then you’re good, if you make one mistake you’re gone.” This was Worth’s first ever culinary contest. Instead of getting nervous and

Dan Worth of Happy Cow Ice Cream and Desserts competed on Chopped Canada. The episode is set to air in March. Photo by B. Catton

trying to over prepare for the event he focused on remaining calm. “I’ve never gone into any sort of culinary competition before. I have done food shows and stuff but I really didn’t know what to expect or how I would react. I wasn’t nervous, I think I remained really calm. There was nothing I could do to really prepare for it. I was there, and I enjoyed every minute of it,” said Worth. Worth is proud to represent his business, his fellow chefs, and his city on a national program.

Wishing You a Warm & Cozy Christmas We’re grateful to be part of such an amazing community. Many thanks for the support of good friends and customers like you!

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“It was a real honour to represent Happy Cow and Fernie. There should be some really good footage, the TV crew came here and did some filming around town,” said Worth. “Without going into too much detail, I think Fernie will have a pretty bright spotlight. There are some really good chefs in this town, for me I always think about getting back into having my own restaurant again. There was a nice little experience in that.” The episode featuring Worth is schedule to air sometime in March of 2016.

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THE FREE PRESS Thursday, December 24, 2015

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Recycling Tips That’s a Wrap Paper based wrapping paper can be recycled in any of the yellow bins in the East Kootenay and in the curbside recycling programs in Fernie and Invermere. From cards and envelopes to wrapping and tissue paper, please recycle as much as possible.

Recyclable: ✓ Paper based gift wrap ✓ Cards ✓Envelopes ✓ Gift tags ✓ Tissue paper ✓ Cardboard boxes ✓ Brown shipping/packaging paper

Not Recyclable ✕ Foil based wrapping paper ✕ Envelopes or gift tags with foil lining ✕ Bows and Ribbons

If everyone in Canada wrapped just three gifts in reused paper or gift bags, it would save enough paper to cover 45,000 hockey rinks.

What You Need to Know About Glass The glass collection bins in the East Kootenay are for container glass only. That means only container glass that holds food and beverages. Some examples include: ✓ Jam jars ✓ Pickle jars ✓ Cheez whiz jars ✓ Olive oil jars ✓ Iced tea or wine bottles These containers must be well rinsed with lids removed. The following are NOT accepted in the glass bins: ✕ Dishes of any kind (clear drinking glasses, pyrex dishes, corel ware, pottery, plates, etc). No dishes! ✕ Shower doors, windshields ✕ Lightbulbs ✕ Picture frame glass ✕ Glass trinkets (like candlestick holders and tree decorations)

Flip Your Lid!

Metal lids cannot be recycled in the yellow bins. Please make sure you remove the lids before putting glass containers in the recycling bin. Metal lids can be recycled for free at Columbia Recycle in Marysville.

Please Keep it Clean Our yellow recycling bins are often on private property and it is so important that we keep them clean. Please put all recyclables in the bin. Over the holidays, the bins see a huge increase in volume. While our contactor will be working hard to empty the bins more frequently, sometimes they will be full. If you encounter a full bin, please look for another bin in the area or come back. Never leave recyclables on or around the bins. Thank you for helping us keep our recycling areas clean!

To find the holiday hours at RDEK transfer stations and landfills, visit

www.rdek.bc.ca

Yellow Bin Basics

Electronics and Small Appliances Electronics are often a hot holiday gift item. Old electronics that are still in good working condition can be taken to an RDEK Reuse Centre; however, if they’re no longer working, they may be able to be recycled.

Both alkaline and rechargeable batteries are recyclable. Drop off locations include:

The following items can be dropped off FREE OF CHARGE for recycling:

No Styrofoam

Styrofoam is NOT recyclable in the yellow bins. The only Styrofoam recycling depot in the East Kootenay is the Cranbrook Bottle Depot.

The Cranbrook and Fernie Depots (not Invermere) also accept more than 120 small electrical appliances, ranging in size from electric toothbrushes to countertop microwave ovens.

Plastics NOT accepted:

For details, visit regeneration.ca

the bin. Often the lids are made out of different plastics than the containers, so you have to check carefully ✕ #7 plastics

Cranbrook: • Cranbrook Photo • Staples • The Source (in Tamarack Centre) • Kootenay Communications Kimberley: • Kimberley City Hall

The yellow bins in the RDEK and curbside programs in Fernie and Invermere take the following: ✓ Mixed paper – including Christmas cards and envelopes (as long as they’re not foil) ✓ Aluminum and tin cans – please rinse well! No aluminum foil, pie plates,etc. Only cans are accepted ✓ Cardboard – all types; boxes must be flattened. Cardboard covered with wax, foil or soiled with grease or food waste cannot be recycled ✓ Plastics – Grocery bags (garbage must be removed from grocery bags) and plastics #1 - #6 (except Styrofoam)

✕ Styrofoam (even though it's marked as a #6) ✕ Unmarked plastics – if it doesn’t have a number on it, it can’t go in

On December 25th alone, over 30 million bags of garbage will be thrown out of Canadian households.

Batteries Included

Electronics recycling depots are located at the Cranbrook, Invermere and Fernie Bottle Depots. These depots are for small volumes only.

✓Computers – desktop and laptops ✓Monitors ✓Keyboards and Computer ✓Mice ✓Printers ✓Televisions ✓Fax Machines ✓Scanners ✓DVD and VHS players ✓Stereos and MP3 docking stations ✓Radios ✓Discman, Walkman, MP3 players ✓Earphones ✓Microphones ✓Speakers ✓Cable, satellite and PVR boxes ✓Vehicle audio and video systems

THE FREE PRESS Thursday, December 24, 2015

Products are divided into categories including: kitchen countertop, time measurement, weight measurement, garment care, air treatment, floor care and personal care.

Foiled Again

Tin pie plates and foil roasting pans cannot be recycled in the yellow bins. They can be recycled at the Cranbrook Bottle Depot.

Fluorescent Light Recycling The LightRecycle program accepts compact fluorescent and tube fluorescent light bulbs free of charge. The recycling program is for residentially generated lights only. There are currently four LightRecycle Depots in the East Kootenay: Cranbrook Home Hardware, 1901 McPhee Road Skyway Distributors, 304 Slater Road NW Fernie Home Building Centre, 300 Manitou Road Invermere Home Hardware, 9980 Arrow Road

Elk Valley: • City of Fernie • Fernie Aquatic Centre • District of Elkford • Sparwood Communications Columbia Valley: • Selkirk TV & Appliance • Home Hardware • The Source

Reuse Comes Before Recycle Over the holidays many people will receive gifts that will replace perfectly good older items. Instead of throwing good items away, please consider giving them away so they can be reused. There are Reuse Centres at the Cranbrook, Kimberley, Elkford, Fernie and Sparwood Transfer Stations and Columbia Valley Landfill. The Reuse Centres accept household items in good working condition. Everything in the Reuse Centres is available at no cost. Some examples of items that are accepted in the Reuse Centres include: ✓ Chairs ✓ Pictures ✓Televisions ✓ Small dishes Light fixtures ✓ ✓ Tools Items that cannot be accepted include large appliances, tires, mattresses, automotive parts, scrap metal, wood and clothing.

If each person reused two feet of ribbon this Christmas it would save 61,000 kms of ribbon.

For more infor mation contact the RDEK at 250-489-2791 or 1-888-478-7335

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THE FREE PRESS Thursday, December 24, 2015

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Recyclable: ✓ Paper based gift wrap ✓ Cards ✓Envelopes ✓ Gift tags ✓ Tissue paper ✓ Cardboard boxes ✓ Brown shipping/packaging paper

Not Recyclable ✕ Foil based wrapping paper ✕ Envelopes or gift tags with foil lining ✕ Bows and Ribbons

If everyone in Canada wrapped just three gifts in reused paper or gift bags, it would save enough paper to cover 45,000 hockey rinks.

Flip Your Lid!

To find the holiday hours at RDEK transfer stations and landfills, visit

www.rdek.bc.ca

Yellow Bin Basics

Both alkaline and rechargeable batteries are recyclable. Drop off locations include:

The following items can be dropped off FREE OF CHARGE for recycling:

No Styrofoam

Styrofoam is NOT recyclable in the yellow bins. The only Styrofoam recycling depot in the East Kootenay is the Cranbrook Bottle Depot.

The Cranbrook and Fernie Depots (not Invermere) also accept more than 120 small electrical appliances, ranging in size from electric toothbrushes to countertop microwave ovens.

Plastics NOT accepted:

For details, visit regeneration.ca

the bin. Often the lids are made out of different plastics than the containers, so you have to check carefully ✕ #7 plastics

Cranbrook: • Cranbrook Photo • Staples • The Source (in Tamarack Centre) • Kootenay Communications Kimberley: • Kimberley City Hall

✕ Styrofoam (even though it's marked as a #6) ✕ Unmarked plastics – if it doesn’t have a number on it, it can’t go in

On December 25th alone, over 30 million bags of garbage will be thrown out of Canadian households.

Batteries Included

Electronics recycling depots are located at the Cranbrook, Invermere and Fernie Bottle Depots. These depots are for small volumes only.

THE FREE PRESS Thursday, December 24, 2015

Products are divided into categories including: kitchen countertop, time measurement, weight measurement, garment care, air treatment, floor care and personal care.

Foiled Again

Tin pie plates and foil roasting pans cannot be recycled in the yellow bins. They can be recycled at the Cranbrook Bottle Depot.

Elk Valley: • City of Fernie • Fernie Aquatic Centre • District of Elkford • Sparwood Communications Columbia Valley: • Selkirk TV & Appliance • Home Hardware • The Source

If each person reused two feet of ribbon this Christmas it would save 61,000 kms of ribbon.

For more infor mation contact the RDEK at 250-489-2791 or 1-888-478-7335

THE FREE PRESS Thursday, December 24, 2015

www.thefreepress.ca

Throwback Thursday

1947

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 24, 2015

Update from Interior Health Board Chair Submitted by Erwin Malzer

s I mark my first anniversary as Board Chair of Interior Health, I’m looking back on the highlights and challenges of 2015. From wildfires that blazed through much of our region, to major investments in surgical care, and a change in leadership within our organization, it has been quite a year. We saw the departure of Dr. Robert Halpenny as President and CEO and in October, we announced his successor, Chris Mazurkewich. Prior to working with Alberta Health Services, Chris was Chief Operating Officer, Strategic & Corporate Services at Interior Health. It is great to have him back. In September, we welcomed the first patients to the new Interior Heart & Surgical Centre. Located in Kelowna, this state-of-the-art facility now delivers the highest level of surgical care ever seen in the Interior. We are thrilled to offer this calibre of health care to residents from every corner of our region. Capital projects in the area continue to move forward. The Creston Emergency Department upgrade project went to tender in November, while in Cranbrook the ICU/electrical upgrade project is in final phase of construction. 24/7 CT coverage and the combined efforts of Kootenay Lake Hospital physicians and staff now mean thrombolytic (clot buster) stroke care is available locally for Nelson and area patients, creating opportunities for better patient outcomes. The addition of a Snoezelen room at Columbia View Lodge in Trail is helping residents with cognitive issues, while an on-line tour of Kootenay Boundary Regional Hospital’s maternity ward is a great resource for those who are expecting. In Golden, patients with broken bones needing ambulance transport ride a little easier after physicians, nurses and BC Ambulance paramedics implemented a new pain management protocol. This was a great example of working together to provide the best care possible to our

patients. At Interior Health, every person engaged and, for the first time, has a I’d also like to recognize everyone who matters and I am extremely proud of majority of women serving and chairing was involved this summer when sprinklers the staff, physicians and volunteers who half of the board committees. I am confident that the next year will flooded Hardy View Lodge in Grand demonstrate this philosophy every day in bring plenty of change for the better. Forks. With everyone’s help the impact to their dedication to quality health care. residents was kept to a minimum. Our current board is exceptionally A significant milestone was reached this year when our Board approved the Letter of Understanding with the Ulkatcho First Nation, the last of eight health agreements that create a strong partnership to improve health outcomes for Aboriginal people. We also renewed an LOU with the Ktunaxa nation this year. Our work to expand access to HIV testing and treatment has led to significant increases in screening for the disease. Since 2013, HIV testing in the region has increased by 50 per cent. Screening is a critical step in controlling and eventually ending the AIDS epidemic. Throughout the year I have enjoyed touring the region to meet with staff, physicians, volunteers, and our elected ^ officials. We managed to IN-STORE cover a lot of territory & ONLINE including Cranbrook, Kaslo, Nelson, Salmo and Trail. INCLUDING ALL REGULAR, SALE AND CLEARANCE ITEMS These visits are a priority ONLY FROM DECEMBER 26, 2015 UNTIL JANUARY 4, 2016 STORES OPEN AT 8AM˚ for myself and the CEO, and Excludes gift cards. Check local store for hours of operation. over the coming year we will visit other communities in the region. There is much to celebrate, but we also have much to § ALL accomplish. In an effort to § MEN’S & ALL decrease demand on hospital WOMEN’S MEN’S and residential services, § LINED ESSENTIAL ALL we are shifting our focus BOTTOMS JEANS UNLINED to integrated primary and SAVE SWEATERS community care, embracing SALE SAVE new approaches that not only † % benefit our patients but also TO Men’s Our Reg. $59.99 - $89.99 the health-care system. SALE $29.99 - $44.99

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www.thefreepress.ca

THE FREE PRESS Thursday, December 24, 2015

Ice bar greeted with warm welcome By Bryn Catton Free Press Staff

he grand opening of Lizard Creek Lodge’s ice bar was on Dec. 19, making Cirque’s vodka bar the third ice bar in Canada. Sixty people attended the opening of the vodka bar in what has been a year-long concept and build. A gentleman in Calgary crafted the ice bar remotely and once he finished making each brick he brought the ice to Lizard Creek’s new restaurant, Cirque, and built the bar in a few days. “It’s cool, he did production in his shop in Calgary and then he sent a frozen truck here,” said Aleen Shipley, Cirque’s restaurant manager to The Free Press. “The ice came in a bunch of little packaged bricks. It only took him about two days to install the ice but a ton of time to produce it from his shop in Calgary.” Cirque’s new addition is a vodka tasting room and features many vodkas from around the world. A vodka expert who helps guests decide which vodkas they would

like to try hosts the 15-minute tour. Each legal drinking aged participant gets three ounces of vodka through the tour. There are two experiences, the Standard at $20 per person and the Elite, which costs $40. “It is a vodka tasting room - a tour of the world of vodka. There are two ‘flights’ that people can do. One is $20, you get three ounces of premium vodkas, the guest gets to choose which vodkas they get and a host is there to help them make their decisions,” said Shipley. “We have about 20 different vodkas at this time and will be adding more. Our host helps them make choices on which types of vodkas they will be interested in. Our Elite experience is $40 for three ounces. It features our highest end vodkas.” While there are around 20 vodkas being offered, currently Shipley’s favourite vodka location that The ice blocks were hand crafted in Calgary before being installed at they offer is Canada. Cirque. Photo by B. Catton “I find the most interesting than anything. vodka distiller is Canada. I “Some of the ladies wear high heels. While the floors are didn’t know that we made such good vodka. We have Vodka On The Lake from Naramata not made of ice, if vodka spills there can be a little bit of B.C., which is excellent and of course we have ice. We have not had any incidents, we just want to make Polish and Russian vodkas as well,” said sure,” said Shipley. While guests do not necessarily need to make a Shipley.. “It is a 15 minute experience, so people reservation over the phone there may be people already usually join us for dinner and then before booked for the time, especially for peak hours. It is the main course will do the guided vodka recommended that participants go early and talk to the room. They put on the big puffy coats and staff about being put into the next tour. “People can come for a drink and we can talk about we give them the safety talk and they meet our ‘Executive vice president of vodka’, Andy the tour then we will get you in there as quick as we can. Ward. He comes from Whistler’s Bearfoot When we are really busy there may be other diners that Bistro Ice Bar so we are thrilled to have are already booked in for the experience,” said Shipley. him. The only other ice bar in Canada is in “You do not need to call for a reservation, but just come in and talk to us about it and we can get people in as soon Montreal,” said Shipley. as we can.” The safety talk is more to do with ice floors

The ice bar at Cirque is the third one to open in Canada. Photo by B. Catton

5:30

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

January 13, 2011 GENERAL INTEREST

December 21 - December 27

Pool Holiday Schedule

Arena Holiday Schedule

District of sparwooD Launches new BranD

Help Wanted The Sparwood Leisure Centre is currently looking for instructors for fitness classes and programs. For more information contact the Leisure Centre at recoffice@sparwood.ca

Early Bird Swim Lane Swim

Watch for these programs starting in January and February.

Public Swim

Home Alone Safety for Kids Vegetarian Meals Babysitter Training Indian at Home Swim Lessons Healthy & Delicious Guitar Learn How to Intro to Photography Make Perogies Photography - Creative Composition & Post Processing

December 21 - December 27 Mon, Wed Mon - Thurs Mon, Tues, Wed Sun Mon - Thurs Mon, Tues, Wed Sat Sun Sun

6:30 - 10:00 12:00 - 1:00 5:30 - 6:30 1:00 - 2:00 1:00.- 3:00 6:30 - 9:00 1:00 - 4:00 3:00 - 6:00 2:00 - 3:00

am pm pm pm pm pm pm pm pm

Yours & Mine. together. Merry Christmas CLOSED Dec. 25 Family Swim

December 28 - January 3

Early Bird Swim Lane Swim

Mon, Wed Mon - Thurs The District of Sparwood is pleased to announceSat the& Sun Sat launch of its new brand and identity. “We’re nowMon, Tues, Wed Public Swim Mon - Fri ideally positioned to clearly and consistently share Sat our Mon, Tues, Wed story,” saidof Terry Melcer, The DistrictSatof In the fitness roomcommunity’s we have a great selection Sun cardio equipment, a Universal Gym, a TRX harness Sparwood’s Officer. as well as free weights ranging fromChief 2 lbs - Administrative 70 lbs. Two courts are available for Squash, Racquetball, Wallyball & Pickle Ball.

December 21- December 27

Skate & Shoot Public Skating

Monday - Thursday Monday & Wednesday Tuesday Sunday

Merry Christmas

12:00 -1:00 3:30 - 5:00 7:00 - 8:00 3:00 - 4:45

pm pm pm pm

- CLOSED Dec. 25, 26 & Jan. 1

December 28- January 3

Skate & Shoot Public Skating

Monday - Thursday Mon, Wed, Thurs, & Sat Tuesday Sunday

12:00 -1:00 3:30 - 5:00 7:00 - 8:00 3:00 - 4:45

pm pm pm pm

6:30 - 10:00 am ARENA ICE AVAILABLE TO RENT 12:00 - 1:00 pm CHRISTMAS ICE SPECIAL $50 /HR + TAX 1:00Melcer. - 2:00 pm“This allows our brand to resonate with our most 5:00 - 6:00 pm DROP-IN RATES Adult $ 58.80 5:30important - 6:30 pm audience first — our own community.” Infant (2+ under) FREE Family $119.70 1:00 - 4:00 pm Preschool (3-5 yrs) $ 2.60 ACTIVE LIVING PASSES 2:00 - 5:00 pm Child (6-12 yrs) $ 3.60 Student/Senior 1mth - $ 50.00 6:30The - 9:00 pm results Seniorof the branding $exercise 4.35 Annual $313.20 initial include a new 6:00 - 8:00 pm Adult $ 5.60 Adult 1 mth - $ 67.00 3:00logo, - 6:00 new pm taglines, Family a community $11.40 $403.20 website, Annual professional Student Family 1 mth - $134.00 (13-25trade with Student $ 4.35 ads, Annual $820.80 images, posters, showcard) materials, and other Climbing Wall Active living passes include use Unlike many community brands, Sparwood’s brand has informational& collateral, as well as recommendations on centre, courts, Wallyball $ 3.85 of the pool, fitness December 22nd, 1:00 - 3:00 pm - Christmas Party - Come join the Call the Leisure Centre to book a time slot. ONE MONTH PASSES climbing wall, skating & drop-in festivities! With games crafts and not been developed primarily to increase tourism or more! how to implement the brand as the community moves Preschool $20.80 fitness classes. The Climbing wall is available for use during December 27th, 2:00 - 5:00 pm - Family Ball Swim - Families come Child $28.80 RACQUET COURTS business hours for bouldering and climbing. attract destination visitors. Rather, itsinbrand development andStudent begins to proactively share its story. /Senior $34.80 Child $ 3.85 have a ball the pool when we take the balls from the ball pit andforward put them in Looking for a fitness class? Adult $44.80 Punch Card $32.73 the main pool. is to strengthen its distinctive characteristics, demonstrate Family $92.80 Student/Senior $ 7.50 The Sparwood Leisure Centre offers a variety of December 31st, 1:00 - 3:00 pm - New Year Around the World DROPon IN strictly TICKETSdeveloping asPunch Card $63.75 “We’re not intent a tourism classes for all levelsaofdesire fitness. to continue to develop Celebrate New Years 10...9...8...3...2...1...Happy New Year!!! Wishing you Preschool economic diversity, and $27.30 Adult(AM) $ 7.50 365 days of good luck. For more information about fitness classes or the Child $37.80 Adult(PM) $ 9.00 community,” says Melcer. “But we are intent on to continue to provide a solid foundation increase facility call 250-425-0552. Student /Senior $45.68 Punch Card $76.50 Cost: Regular PooltoAdmission Open to All

Fitness Centre, Courts & Climbing Wall

POOL SPECIAL EVENTS

Sports

THE FREE PRESS Thursday, December 24, 2015

Ghostriders go 1-1 in past two games

Zach Befus plays the puck during Saturday’s game against the Beaver Valley Nitehawks. Photo by B. Catton ByBryn Catton Free Press Staff

he Ghostriders winning streak has been halted with a six to two loss at the hands of the Beaver Valley (BV) Nitehawks. Despite numerous good goal-scoring chances early on from the Ghostriders, the Nitehawks goaltender Tallon Kramer kept all but two pucks out of the net. “Their goalie gave them a chance after the first period. We probably should have been up three to one and he made some awesome saves and then they settled down,” said Craig Mohr, Head Coach and General Manager of the Ghostriders. “The second period was the first time in a long time we got outplayed as a team. Credit to them, that was a really good hockey team and they always are,” said Mohr. Despite some remounted

attacks by the Fernie squad in the last period, the team could not make back the goal deficit. “I thought we got back to our work ethic in the third but just couldn’t get a goal. We had a defencemen go down trying to make a play then they go down and score,” said Mohr. “We kept trying, I just thought the last 10 minutes of the second they outworked us and outplayed us. Credit to them. We got down four to one and couldn’t come back.” It was a fast hockey game with the edge spectators would expect to see in a post-season game. “It was just a hard hockey game. There wasn’t anything malicious. Just had a little bit of the playoff bite to it,” said Mohr. While the Ghostriders did not gain any points against Beaver Valley they got two against their standing rivals, the Creston Valley Thunder Cats in a seven

to four win at home on Thursday. “The team has got a taste; they have seen Kamloops now, the first place team. They have seen BV who is in a battle with Castlegar for first place. We win a big game against Creston on Thursday. We are tied for second with them so we are hanging in there.” Considering the injury list, the coach does not think Saturday’s loss against the Nitehawks to be something to worry about. “I have no issues. We have four bodies sitting out in the stands and some key components are there. This club works really hard, this is just a blip on the radar,” said Mohr. The coach hopes that the week off will allow the squad’s injury list to heal. “They have been a really hard working, honest group all year. Get some bodies healed up over the break,” said Mohr. “[Ryan] Teslak is getting there, [Cole] Keebler is getting close, Mack [Sincennes] has the broken hand from the fight so he gets an extra week for that thing to heal. If you are going to break your hand mid-season he broke it in the best healing slot. Use the time, heal up and come on back.” After the last stretch of games the Ghostriders definitely deserve their holiday break. “They have earned their break. We talked to them after and we said that we know we got out worked. We will learn from that and move on. They have earned their Christmas break, enjoy it, enjoy your family and friends, eat your Christmas turkey and when we get back here on Dec. 27 it is Kimberley, Kimberley, Creston, Creston,” said Mohr. “We are getting close to the finish and there is not a lot of time left so be ready for the experience of the Kimberley Kimberley Christmas Fiesta.” The next Ghostriders home game is Dec. 27 against the Kimberley Dynamiters.

GHOSTRIDERS HOCKEY VS

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THE FREE PRESS Thursday, December 24, 2015

Heavy snowfall at FAR pleases skiers Canada Post has been cutting hours and closing Corporate Post Offices. It’s time to make better use of the largest retail network in the country to provide more services to the public.

All the best over the holidays

By Leah Scheitel & Bryn Catton Free Press Staff

here were many happy skiers and snowboarders on the slopes at Fernie Alpine Resort (FAR) this past weekend. Heavy snowfall didn’t cease on Sunday, resulting in 16 cm of fresh snow in the past 24 hours. Overall, the mountain received over 18 cm of fresh snow in the past 48 hours and over 40 cm over the past week. Many eager riders flocked to the hill to enjoy the fresh powder. Nolan and Ethan Gertken travelled from Okotoks, Alta. just for the snow. “We come here a lot and are down for the weekend,” said Ethan. “The snow is pretty good today,” said Nolan. “Well, it’s our first run, but it looks pretty good. Way better than last year,” added Ethan. Local Sheldon Dehaan already has multiple days on the hill this season, and is happy with the snow this year. ““I work on the mountain a few days a week. I’m not originally from Fernie but I have been here about 10 years. I bought a house so I live here,” said Dehaan. “This is my seventh time out this year.” Dehaan was riding with James Higson, a friend who was visiting from his hometown of Pembroke, Ont. ““This will be my first ride of the year, so far so good already hit the powder and fell,” said Higson. “ I follow him, he shows me where all the best runs are.” Solo skier Michael Halliwell said he was enjoying the morning skiing on Saturday. “I feel good,” he said. “Snow is good, crowds are light, and we have the place to ourselves.” The hill has benefited greatly from the fresh snow, with all but one lift currently operating. The Polar Peak chair remains closed for the time being. FAR will be open on Christmas Day and Boxing Day with lifts opening at 9 a.m. and closing at 4 p.m.

Skiers and riders Michael Halliwell (above left) Ethan and Nolan Gertken (above right), Sheldon Dehaan and James Higson (below) were all happy with the weekend conditions at Fernie Alpine Resort. The hill received over 40 cm of snow in the past week. Photos by B. Catton

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Zach Befus Zach Befus is ranked as the ninth top scorer in the league. The right winger has earned points in 22 of the 30 games he has played this season.

Information obtained from, Centre for Addiction and Mental Health (2008): Partying and Getting Drunk East Kootenay Addiction Services Society has sponsored this column. The intent of this column is to provide information and to encourage healthy choices. Free, confidential services are available to anyone dealing with their own or someone else’s substance addiction or misuse. For more information contact 250-423-4423, 1-800-644-6144 or visit www.ekass.com

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If you are the athlete in this photo you have won a free pizza from Just Pizza! Drop into The Free Press office to collect your prize. Ryan Bryden peers into the Cedar Bowl earlier this week.

Photo by B. Catton

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

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

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

HAPPY HOLIDAYS From Dr. Amos & Marcela Kahane, Dr. James Jensen, Dr. Karl Peach, Rhonda, Terylene, Charlene, Debra, Jan, Samantha, Ute, Sarah, Jodi, and Julie.

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New funding announced for Elk Valley Trail project Submitted

he Elk Valley Community Directed Funds (EVCDF) Committee has allocated $430,000 to the Elk Valley Community Trail project. Efforts are now underway to secure matching funds through Trans Canada Trail, which if approved, would bring the total value of the project to almost $900,000. “From the very beginning our Committee was hopeful that we could use the Community Directed Funds to support a single project that would have a lasting and notable impact on the Elk Valley. With the ability to receive matching funding from the Trans Canada Trail to develop this route through the Elk valley, we believe that we have found such a project,” said EVCDF Committee Chair Mary Giuliano. “A quality trail system is an important component of community economic development and complements the social well-being and

healthy lifestyles of Elk Valley residents. As a Committee, we are pleased to be making this strategic investment in our Valley’s recreational infrastructure.” The RDEK, Fernie Trails Alliance, and Columbia Basin Trust will be working with the Trans Canada Trail to develop a funding agreement for the Elk Valley Community Trail project, which is proposed to connect the communities of Elko, Morrissey, Fernie, Hosmer, Sparwood and Elkford with a mostly non-motorized singletrack trail. The trail will cover a distance of 150km and help connect some of the remaining gaps in the Trans Canada Trail (TCT) through the East Kootenay. The EVCDF Program ran for three years between 2013 and 2015. The RDEK gratefully acknowledges the financial support of Columbia Basin Trust, which supports efforts and ideas of the people of the Columbia Basin.

THE FREE PRESS Thursday, December 24, 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

Holiday therapy animals

City Hall 501-3rd Ave., Box 190 Fernie, BC V0B 1M0 www.fernie.ca

The City of Fernie wishes everyone the best of the season!

Proudly serving the residents of Fernie

On Dec. 18, holiday pets toured Rocky Mountain Village to celebrate the holidays with the residents. Kim Kennedy toured with her golden retriever, Chip, Cathy Smith-Clark showed off her cat Precious, Shelley Molten carried a rabbit named Cottontail and Pat Hamilton brought her dog Percy. Photo by L. Scheitel

Photo Credit: Raven Eye Photography

Holiday Hours Merry Christmas to our patrons and have a wonderful holiday season. Closed Thursday December 24 to Monday December 28 Open Tuesday Dec 29, 30 & 31.

Check our website for children’s programming during the holidays. Call the Library at 250-423-4458 or check our website for details at http://fernie.bclibrary.ca

Tues

Dec 22

10 - 5 PM (No evening hours)

Wed

Dec 23

10 -5 PM

Thurs

Dec 24 10 -3 PM (Early Closure. No Evening Hours)

Fri

Dec 25-Mon Dec 28 CLOSED

Tues

Dec 29

10 - 5 PM (No evening hours)

Wed

Dec 30

10 -5 PM

Thurs

Dec 31 10 -3 PM (Early Closure. No Evening Hours)

Fri

Jan 1

CLOSED

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THE FREE PRESS Thursday, December 24, 2015

DID YOU KNOW…

www.thefreepress.ca

Visits from Santa

That non-resident women of any age can access services from the Women’s Resource Centre?

Tel: 250 423 4687 1592 10th Ave, Fernie BC Drop-in Hours: Monday-Friday 9-1 | Wednesday 9-3 www.ferniewomenscentre.com

Above: Travis Tougas, 7, tells Santa his wishlist at the Greenwood Mall in Sparwood on Dec. 14. Below: Cheyanne and her sister Carlett Vanoostenbrugge get some special time with Santa at Cirque at Lizard Creek Lodge on Dec. 13 Photos by B. Catton

We hope your New Year’s celebration is a great start to a great year. May 2016 hold many wonderful things for you and yours. As we ring in the new year, we also celebrate your friendship and support. It’s been a pleasure doing business with you in 2015.

py New Year Hap from

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on what it means to provide another $50 million for Health Research… with MLA Bill Bennett

1. By supporting the Michael Smith Foundation for health research, this government gives the opportunity for over 1600 projects to move forward in a sector that contributes $14.4 billion to BC’s economy. 2. An example of a successful BC project is a $50 smartphone oximeter that measures blood oxygen levels saving thousands for hospitals and makes anaesthesia and surgeries safer. 3. BC Doctors, through this foundation, have identified the genetic composition of the deadliest form of breast cancer and have discovered procedures to reduce transmission of HIV/ AIDS that are being adopted worldwide. Bill Bennett MLA, Kootenay East www.billbennettmla.bc.ca

www.thefreepress.ca

THE FREE PRESS Thursday, December 24, 2015

A face in the crowd Sponsored by

& The Free Press Ladies of Beta Sigma Phi, chapter XI Delta Kappa of Fernie and Sparwood have a decade-long tradition of donating toiletry items to the senior’s homes in Fernie. Submitted photo

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

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

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DJ Services

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

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

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

..... connect to your COMMUNITY

THE FREE PRESS Thursday, December 24, 2015

www.thefreepress.ca

Your Community Newspaper

Happy Holidays and Happy New Year

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THE FREE PRESS Thursday, December 24, 2015

The Free Press Thursday, December 24, 2015

www.thefreepress.ca A27

To advertise in print:

Browse more at:

Call: 250-423-4666 Email: customerservice@thefreepress.ca Self-serve: blackpressused.ca Career ads: localworkbc.ca

A division of

INDEX IN BRIEF FAMILY ANNOUNCEMENTS COMMUNITY ANNOUNCEMENTS TRAVEL EMPLOYMENT

Announcements

In Memoriam

Information

Obituaries

In Loving Memory of DANNY BJARNASON April 13, 1980-Dec. 28, 2008

Jeanne Faucher

BUSINESS SERVICES PETS & LIVESTOCK MERCHANDISE FOR SALE REAL ESTATE CANADA BENEFIT Group Do you or someone you know suffer from a disability? Get up to $40,000 from the Canadian Government. Toll-free 1-888511-2250 or www.canadabenefit.ca/free-assessment

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Copyright and/or properties subsist in all advertisements and in all other material appearing in this edition of Used.ca. Permission to reproduce wholly or in part and in any form whatsoever, particularly by a photographic or offset process in a publication must be obtained in writing from the publisher. Any unauthorized reproduction will be subject to recourse in law.

ON THE WEB:

Personals If tears could build a stairway, And memories were a lane, I would walk right up to heaven, To bring you home again. No farewell words were spoken, No time to say good-bye, You were gone before I knew it, And only God knows why. My heart still aches with sadness, And secret tears still flow, What it meant to lose you, No one will ever know. Missing you... Love Mom, Dad, Jordan and Daymon

Obituaries

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

Travel

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

Obituaries

ELLIOTT: It is with heavy hearts that we announce the sudden death of Carolynn May Elliott, beloved wife, mother, and grandmother. Carolynn died peacefully at home on Saturday, December 12, 2015 at the age of 64. Carolynn was born in Moose Jaw, SK on April 9, 1951 to parents Harold and Christina Butler. She attended elementary school in Bladworth & Loreburn, SK, and high school at Walter Murray Collegiate in Saskatoon and the Saskatchewan Institute of Applied Arts & Sciences (SIASS), where she excelled in Dietary Technology. While attending SIASS, Carolynn loved to curl and she took her women’s curling team to the Western Finals. On May 5, 1973 she married Jim Elliott, and shortly afterwards, moved to Sparwood where she worked at the Michel Natal hospital before taking a job for 10 years at the Blairmore hospital as the Food Service Manager. In 1976, she and Jim welcomed their daughter, Krista and 3 years later, Jim Jr., into their lives. After 10 years in Blairmore, Carolynn took a career change and purchased Greeenwood Florist. Often referred to as the “flower lady”, Carolynn was the go-to florist for flower arrangements, holiday centrepieces, wedding bouquets, and gift ideas. Customers were always greeted with a smile and very often became regular visitors, just stopping by for a chat. Many great conversations were shared over a cup of coffee in the back of her store. Carolynn and Jim were also very well known within the hockey, figure skating, and baseball community when their children were growing up. Proud supporters of youth sports, the Elliott’s were always available whenever/wherever assistance was needed. Carolynn was the first president of the Sparwood Lioness Club and served as a loyal Lions member for over 25 years. She loved her community! Carolynn’s family eventually grew to include 5 beautiful grandchildren who she lovingly doted over; proudly sharing their dreams and accomplishments. Grams was one of their greatest cheerleaders, and they will miss her! Carolynn is survived by her husband of 43 years, Jim Elliott, her children: Krista from Sparwood and Jim Jr. (Sabrina) from Grande Prairie, AB, and her precious grandchildren: Tyson and Travis Soobotin, Evan Coupland, and Carissa and Alyssa Elliott. She is also survived by her sisters Karen (Ross) Travis, Brenda (Richard) Larabee and countless nieces, nephews, and cousins. She was predeceased by her parents, and her brother Cliff. Should friends so desire, donations may be made in Carolynn’s name to the BC Lung Association, Heart & Stroke Foundation or the BC Cancer Society. Memories & condolences shared at www. cherishedmemoriesfs.com Arrangements entrusted to Cherished Memories Funeral Services Ltd.

May 3, 1920 – Dec. 14, 2015 The family of Jeanne Faucher is saddened to announce her passing on Monday, December 14, 2015.She lived a wonderful 95 years and will be missed by all. Jeanne was born in Rockland, Ontario to René & Dora Hamelin. Their family, including sisters Theresa and Gertrude, & brothers Charlie & Gerry, moved west in 1936 and settled in Maillardville (Coquitlam) B.C. On May 21, 1938 she married Joseph Faucher. Together they raised three sons: René, Denis, & John. Their eldest son René passed away as a teenager in 1958, after a brief battle with leukemia. In 1964 the family moved to Fernie to take ownership of the King’s Hotel on 2nd avenue. They built their home in the new Ridgemont subdivision in 1970, and lived there until Joe’s passing on Aug. 14, 1975. Jeanne then returned to Maillardville where she spent the remainder of her life. Jeanne was very involved with the Catholic Church and in particular the church choir. She also took in a number of foster children in support of the Catholic Aid Society. Upon her return to Maillardville, she worked and volunteered with seniors until her eventual retirement. Mom’s trademarks were her laughter; her passion for food; and most especially, her love for her grandchildren. She is survived by her sister Theresa; her sons Denis (Barb) and John (Shelley); 5 grandchildren: Shawna (Glen), Carmen (Will), Bryan (Alex), Colin, & Liam (Emily); 4 great grandchildren: Logan, Saje, Jadyn and Cole; as well as several nieces and nephews. A funeral service will be held on Tuesday, December 29 at Our Lady of Fatima Church, Coquitlam.

Place of Worship

ELK VALLEY CHURCH SERVICES ST. MICHAEL’S PARISH

741B 2nd Ave. Fernie

Centennial Square, Sparwood

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

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. Michael’s ~ 7:00 pm Sundays: St. Michael’s ~ 11:00 am St. Bernard’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 & Children’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

TRY A CLASSIFIED AD

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THE FREE PRESS Thursday, December 24, 2015

A28 www.thefreepress.ca

Thursday, December 24, 2015 The Free Press

Employment

Business Opportunities

Education/Trade Schools

Professional/ Management

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.

HEALTHCARE DOCUMENTATION Specialists in huge demand. Employers prefer CanScribe graduates. A great work-from-home career! Contact us now to start your training day. www.canscribe.com. Call 1-800-466-1535. Email: info@canscribe.com.

WHATSHAN Retreat is accepting resumes for Caretakers (April 1-Oct 31, 2016). Closing date December 31, 2015. Send to tammy.veriginburk @gmail.com. www.whatchan.com.

Career Opportunities THE S&A Group is currently looking for a professional and eager Administrative Assistant for a rapidly expanding company in Vancouver,BC! -Data Entry -Schedule meetings Answer and direct phone calls -Prepare scheduled reports -Filing, faxing, scanning, email correspondences -Strong use of Microsoft Office and other office management systems Job Requirements - -Must have Microsoft office experience -1-2+ years administrative assistant experience -Provide exceptional customer service -Must have good organization skills -Multi-task in a fast working environment -Must have experience in Excel -Must be able to pass a full background check -Must be computer literate Starting Pay is $27.00 - $29.00 p/hour. Paid Holidays and benefits after 90 days. Please send your resume to : daveclaerhout11@hotmail.com

Career Service / Job Search

START A new career in Graphic Arts, Healthcare, Business, Education or Information Tech. If you have a GED, call: 855-670-9765

FIND EVERYTHING YOU NEED IN THE CLASSIFIEDS

Medical/Dental

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

Work Wanted 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.

MEDICAL TRANSCRIPTION! In-demand career! Employers have work-at-home positions available. Get online training you need from an employertrusted program. Visit: CareerStep.ca/MT or 1-855-7683362 to start training for your work-at-home career today!

Classiﬁeds Get Results!

Career Service / Job Search

Services

Merchandise for Sale

Rentals

Financial Services

Heavy Duty Machinery

Apt/Condo for Rent

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

Scenic Downtown Elkford

Move in special - receive $300 after 3 months. Also receive 20% of your damage deposit back after 1 year - some conditions apply. We have a one and two bedroom in fully newly renovated building. Some furnished suites with all new furniture. Pet friendly (some conditions apply) $775 to $925.

INCOME TAX PROBLEMS? Have you been audited, reassessed or disallowed certain claims by Canada Revenue Agency? Call Bob Allen @ 1250-542-0295 35yrs. Income Tax experience, 8.5yrs. with Revenue Canada. Email: r.gallen@shaw.ca C- 250-938-1944

Personal Care “We care about your hair loss”

Capilia Hair & Scalp Centre

Thinning hair or hair Loss Dandruff, dry or oily scalp Psoriasis & Eczema Chemotherapy/radiation therapy Wigs & hair systems for men & women 3019 Hwy 3

CRESTON, BC

250-428-0354 www.hairandscalpcentre.ca

HAVE YOU been denied Canada Pension Plan disability benefits? The Disability Claims Advocacy Clinic can help you appeal. Call 1-877-793-3222 www.dcac.ca info@dcac.ca

A-1 FURNACE & Air Duct Cleaning. Complete Furnace/Air Duct Systems cleaned & sterilized. Locally owned & operated. 1-800-5650355 (Free estimates) KOOTENAY DUCT CLEANERS Locally owned & operated. Affordable, professional, & insured Duct Cleaning Services & System Sterilizations. Toll free 1.844.428.0522 FREE Estimates

Plumbing 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.

Merchandise for Sale

Food Products BC INSPECTED

Help Wanted

WANT TO DELIVER NEWSPAPERS?

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

Heavy Duty Machinery Wanted:Will pay cash for construction equipment, backhoes, excavators, dozers, (farm tractors w/loaders)1985 or newer. Skid steers, wheel loaders, screeners, low beds, any condition running or not. 250-260-0217.

Apt/Condo for Rent

Rentals Rent To Own 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 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 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.

Apt/Condo for Rent

695 per month

in Fernie, Sparwood and Elkford 1422 & 1462 – 6th Avenue, Fernie Located behind the Best Western

250-423-4666 • 342 2 Avenue customerservice@thefreepress.ca

Includes heat, lights, & hot water

peaceful Elkford

1 & 2 Bedroom Units Furnished & Unfurnished

WE HAVE LOTS OF ROUTES AVAILABLE

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

Live in scenic &

Apartments for Rent

From

Spacious NEW apartments

250-865-2722

Business/Ofﬁce Service

Household Services

Help Wanted

Misc. for Sale 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.

ALPINE COURT

For more information call

250-423-1358

ALDERWOOD PLACE Comfortable apartment units

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

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

1-250-865-7695 SPARWOOD, B.C. Quiet • Comfortable • Affordable

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

Hot Water Included

Walking Distance to Mall

PineCrest Apartments Sparwood BC

Contact Manager - 778-518-2253 or view at www.glprentals.com

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

Modular Homes 14’ wide Mobile Home for Rent 3 bedrooms, all appliances Call Joe at 250-425-5387 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 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 Houses in Spardell for rent. 3 bedroom houses, 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

SPARWOOD, 2-storey, 3bdrm townhouse for rent w/full basement, close to school & rec centre. (250)425-4448 primeprop@mymts.net Sparwood and Elkford: Property Management Services **************************** Furnished & Unfurnished houses and condos available for rent. Call Tonda at 250-433-7024 to match you up to the perfect home!! tonda@sparwoodrealestate.ca

250-865-2722 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.

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

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

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

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

Transportation

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.

250-423-3308 or 250-423-1236

Townhouses 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

Boats World’s Finest FISHING BOATS

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

www.thefreepress.ca

THE FREE PRESS Thursday, December 24, 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 27 to January 2, 2016 THE LUCKIEST SIGNS THIS WEEK: SCORPIO, SAGITTARIUS AND CAPRICORN..

ARIES (March 21 - April 19)

You’re not able to just twiddle your thumbs during the festivities. Even if you’re not the host, you get actively involved, perhaps by preparing or serving the food.

wifi available

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

BRAIN GAMES ACROSS

CROSSWORDS

PUZZLE NO. 792

TAURUS (April 20 - May 20)

You’re the centre of attention. You’re very talkative and your sarcasm makes people laugh. You may even be applauded at times.

GEMINI (May 21 - June 21)

You spend the week with family. You devote all your time to your children or your elderly parents. You experience a wonderful strengthening of family bonds..

CANCER (June 22 - July 22)

You have plenty to say for yourself and you take the lead to make everything to go smoothly. You’re absolutely right, even if you lack tact.

LEO (July 23 - August 22)

VIRGO (August 23 - September 22)

1. 4. 8. 12. 13. 14. 15. 16. 18. 20. 21. 23. 25. 27. 30. 31. 32. 33. 34. 36. 37. 38. 41. 42. 45. 48. 49. 50. 51. 52. 53.

Starlet’s secret? Liquid rock Boutique Overcame Highway sign Song Diary Watch, e.g. Decomposes One who finishes Shriek Difficulty Mississippi transport Cured pork Nights preceding ____ up to (admit) Floor model Joined Financial officer Tie Metallic sound Burn with steam Thaw Postnuptial vacation European mountain Martial ____ Still Golly’s partner Athletic event Low grades Coop product

DOWN

1. Shoemaking tool 2. Messy stuff 3. Inscribed 4. Correspondence 5. Center of rotation 6. Vigor 7. Consumed food 8. Scam 9. Colored 10. Not twice 11. Equal 17. Soil enricher 19. Lode loads 21. Make beer 22. Learn’s partner 23. Scattered

24. Granny 26. ____ yesterday 27. Birthright 28. Minister’s word 29. “____ & Mindy” 32. Boring 34. Orderly 35. Pictures 36. Made holy 38. Farce 39. Apple remnant 40. Initial bet 41. Beauty spot 43. In-between 44. Solemn lyric poem 46. Chair support 47. Tent stake

ANSWER/LAST WEEK - PUZZLE NO. 791

Lots of action is in store for you. You’re quite surprised at all the initiative you demonstrate. People follow you blindly, even when you’re being silly.

LIBRA (September 23 - October 22)

A little meditation is required. You spend some time reviewing the year, including the high and low points. You take stock of your life before making any resolutions.

SCORPIO (October 23 - November 21)

You’re in charge of an event that brings together a lot of friends and loved ones. You achieve something that will be remembered for a long time to come.

SAGITTARIUS (November 22 - December 21)

You have a lot of cleaning up to do. You’re a great host and you organize a lavish event for your family that is a huge success in every way.

CAPRICORN (December 22 - January 19)

If you buy lottery tickets with family members, you may win the means to finish the holidays by travelling together. Lots of fun is on the horizon at the very least.

AQUARIUS (January 20 - February 18)

Someone may reveal a family secret. You’re particularly sensitive and you may give a wonderful speech that moves a lot of people.

PISCES (February 19 - March 20)

You’re a fairly sensitive person, so perhaps it would be wise to stay away from family conflicts as much as possible, especially if they don’t concern you.

PUZZLE NO. 528

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

Answers:

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

FOR ADVERTISING CONTACT SOPHIE HOWDEN advertising@thefreepress.ca 250-423-4666

Wise customers read the fine print: *, †, Ω, ◊ 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 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 Ram 1500 and Ram Heavy Duty models to qualified customers on approved credit through RBC, Scotiabank and TD Auto Finance. Dealer order/trade may be necessary. Example: 2016 Ram 1500 Quad Cab SXT 4x4 (25A+AGR) with a Purchase Price of $29,998 with a $0 down payment, financed at 0% for 60 months equals 130 bi-weekly payments of $231 with a cost of borrowing of $0 and a total obligation of $29,998. Ω$10,000 in total discounts includes $7,500 Consumer Cash, $1,500 Loyalty/Conquest Bonus Cash and $1,000 Holiday Bonus Cash. Consumer Cash Discounts are deducted from the negotiated price before taxes. $1,500 Ram Truck Loyalty/Conquest/Skilled Trades Bonus Cash is available on the retail purchase/lease of 2015/2016 Ram 1500 (excludes Reg. Cab), 2014/2015/2016 Ram 2500/3500, 2014/2015/2016 Ram Cab & Chassis or 2015 Ram Cargo Van and is deducted from the negotiated price after taxes. Eligible customers include: 1. Current owners/lessees of a Dodge or Ram Pickup Truck or Large Van or any other manufacturer’s Pickup Truck or Large Van. The vehicle must have been owned/leased by the eligible customer and registered in their name on or before December 1, 2015. Proof of ownership/Lease agreement will be required. 2. Customers who are skilled tradesmen or are acquiring a skilled trade. This includes Licensed Tradesmen, Certified Journeymen or customers who have completed an Apprenticeship Certification. A copy of the Trade Licence/Certification required. 3. Customers who are Baeumler Approved service providers. Proof of membership is required. Limit one $1,500 bonus cash offer per eligible transaction. Some conditions apply. See your dealer for complete details. ◊Holiday Bonus Cash of up to $1,000 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. ≤Based on 3500/F-350 full-size pickups and competitive information available at time of publication. Based on max towing comparison between 2016 Ram 3500 - up to 31,210 lb, 2015 Chevrolet 3500 - up to 23,200 lb and 2016 Ford F-350 - up to 26,500 lb. TMThe SiriusXM logo is a registered trademark of SiriusXM Satellite Radio Inc.

30 THE FREE PRESS Thursday, December 24, 2015 T:10” www.thefreepress.ca

†

ON MOST 2016 RAM 1500 TRUCKS

FOR 60 MONTHs

FINANCING PLUS $ ◊

ON MOST MODELS

IN TOTAL DISCOUNTS INCLUDing $1,000 HOLIDAY BONUS CASH

10,000

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GET $7,500 IN TOTAL DISCOUNTS ON 2016 RAM HEAVY DUTY

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≤

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THE FREE PRESS Thursday, December 24, 2015

Sparwood seniors choose best decorated homes Submitted

Futures Society and Lilac Terrace for help making this a fun night for our seniors,” said the Chamber. They would also appreciate the amount of people who decorate their

homes for the season. “The Sparwood Chamber would like to thank everyone who takes the time to decorate their homes, it really does make Sparwood look beautiful during the

holiday season. Thank-you to everyone that made this evening and event happen for our seniors. Merry Christmas to everyone from the Sparwood Chamber,” said the Chamber.

he Annual Senior Night was held by the Sparwood Chamber on Dec. 16. The chamber toured Sparwood with a group of seniors looking at holiday decorations and judging homes. The judging was for the “best decorated” homes and the homes that showed the most Christmas spirit. The categories are – “Top 3 homes” where judges decide what three homes they visited were the most spirited. “Top Mobile” the mobile home with the most holiday show. And the “Top 8 ‘Must See’” homes that did not make the top three but are well worth the visit. “We toured Sparwood, with the seniors, looking at lights and judging homes. We returned to Lilac Terrace for refreshments, cake, door prizes and entertainment. All prizes for the decorated homes are supplied by the Sparwood Futures Society, and the cake from Overwaitea,” said the Chamber in a press release. The top three homes as decided by the Chamber and their party were the homes of Bob and Darlene Nickerson at 1247 Valleyview ranked at number one, Henry Colkman at 113 Spardell at number two and third place was Jack and Tammy Doratty The fastest and most reliable internet technology* at 316 Lodgepole Pl. is now in Fernie.† Trust TELUS Fibre to help you The Top Mobile recognition was Pat stay connected, with crystal-clear HD video calls and Joan Glynn from Mountain View lot on Internet 150. number 55. The top eight must Get Optik TV TM and Internet 25 for $50/mo. see homes can be found in Sparwood at for 1 year when you sign up for 3 years.‡ 402 White Oak, 1339 Cherrywood, 452 Mountain Ash, 301 Pacific Yew, 488 Pine, 463 White Birch, 1319 Briarwood Place and 126 Pine Avenue. Learn more at The Sparwood telus.com/fernie Chamber recognizes the help they received during and after the event. “The Sparwood TELUS STORES Chamber would Cranbrook 101 Kootenay St. N 717 Industrial Rd. 2 like to thank Black Tamarack Centre *Traditional copper wire or copper wire hybrid networks are subject to capacity constraints and environmental stresses that do not affect TELUS fibre optic technology, which is based on light signals. †Not all homes are covered. ‡Offer available until December 31, 2015, to residential customers Gold Bus Lines, who have not subscribed to TELUS TV or Internet in the past 90 days. Cannot be combined with other promotional offers. Offer includes Optik TV Essentials and Internet 25. The Essentials is required for all Optik TV subscriptions. A cancellation fee applies to the early termination of the service driver Sonny Saad, agreement and will be $10 for the PVR and Wi-Fi modem rental multiplied by the number of months remaining in the term. Regular prices apply at the end of the promotional period. Minimum system requirements apply. Final eligibility for the services will be determined by a TELUS representative. reserves the right to modify channel lineups and packaging, and regular pricing without notice. HDTV-input-equipped television required to watch HD. TELUS, the TELUS logo, Optik, Optik TV, telus.com and the future is friendly are trademarks of TELUS Corporation, used under licence. Overwaitea Foods, TELUS All copyrights for images, artwork and trademarks are the property of their respective owners. © 2015 TELUS.

A powerful connection to what matters most .

www.thefreepress.ca

THE FREE PRESS Thursday, December 24, 2015

Associated with Legacy Auto Group

Andrew Moore General Manager

Where Quality & Service Meet Without Compromise

Jesse Johnson

6165 Brenners Road, Fernie, BC • 250-423-9211 • www.fernieford.ca

Finance Manager

Don Siska

Sales Specialist

Diane Isakson Sales Specialist

2015 Ford Focus SE

2015 Ford Flex LTD AWD

2015 Ford Taurus SEL AWD

$23,499 or $182 BW for 84 months

$50,099 or $383 BW for 84 months

$42,849 or $321 BW for 84 months

Stk. NC1093

Stk. NT1539

FINANCING ON FORD F150’S

2016 Ford F150 Supercrew XLT

2015 Ford F150 Supercrew Lariat

2015 Ford F150 Supercrew Platinum

$44,549 or $327 BW for 72 months

$56,900 or $415 BW for 72 months

$64,999 or $472 BW for 72 months

Stk. NT1573

Stk. NT1507

Stk. NT1493

FERNIE PRE-OWNED * LOOK FOR THE LEGACY MARK DOWN

2014 F150 Supercrew Platinum

2010 Lincoln MKZ AWD

2014 Toyota Rav4

2013 Hyundai Sonata Hybrid Limited

$44,900 or $169

$18,990 or $97

$29,900 or $115

$19,900 or $87

Stk. UT0267

Week for 84 months

Stk. UC0265

Week for 60 months

Sales Specialist

Stk. NC0195

Michelle Hattie

Stk. UT0739

Week for 84 months

Stk. UC0255

Week for 72 months

All payments calculated at 4.99% except where noted. $0 down calculated on all payments OAC. Example UC0265 total paid interest is $3003.87. Total payments would be $25,420.20. Conditions apply. See the team at Fernie Ford for more details.