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August 18, 2021 ~ Vol. 91
No. 33
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Crowsnest Pass
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Heat Wave
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Long stretches of heat waves have wreaked havoc on many areas across Alberta and BC. Both western provinces have seen intense heat that has caused wildfire problems across large areas of each province. Many communities in the BC interior are now facing evacuation notices due to the large number of out of control wildfires. Fire crews continue to battle hot temperatures with little to no rain falling over the last number of weeks. These temperatures have made for one of the worst fire seasons in BC in years.
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2 – crowsnest PAss HerALD – Wednesday, August 18, 2021
Government says no to coal mining Feds makes decision on Grassy Mountain, Benga Mining to fight back
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DAviD SelleS Pass Herald Reporter
The Federal decision on the Grassy Mountain Coal Project has come down, despite requests by Benga Mining Limited (Benga) to hold off on a decision while they explored their legal options. In a press release from August 13th, Benga says they have "applied to the Federal Court of Canada for a judicial review of decisions against the Grassy
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Mountain Steelmaking Coal Project (Project) by the Minister of Environand Climate ment Change, Jonathan Wilkinson, and the Cabinet, on the grounds that those decisions were unlawful, incorrect, unreasonable and/or unconstitutional." The decision on the Project from Minister of Environment and Climate Change, Jonathan Wilkinson, was released on August 6th and states that the Project "is likely to cause significant adverse environmental effects” and which referred the Project to the Cabinet (Referral Decision). the Cabinet’s decision on the Project also states “significant adverse environmental effects” that the Project, “is likely to cause are not justified in the circumstances." In Benga's press release, they state they have already "applied for an order that quashes or sets aside the Minister’s decision of August 6, 2021. Benga is also seeking to quash the Cabinet’s decision that the, “significant adverse environmental effects” that the Project, “is likely to cause are not justified in the circumstances.” The Minister’s determination was based on a decision by the Joint Review Panel (JRP) on June 17, 2021, to deny the Project, and was made despite applications being filed with the Court of Appeal of Alberta on July 16 and 19, 2021, by Benga and two separate First Nations, the Piikani Nation and the Stoney Nakoda Nations. In their press release, Benga states that their applications "challenge the JRP’s decision on the grounds that it made a number of errors in law and contraventions of procedural fairness and that the JRP’s report was fundamentally and fatally flawed." According to Benga, they also tried to make contact with the Minister and the Impact Assessment Agency of Canada to no avail. "Benga’s legal counsel wrote to the Minister on June 26, 2021, formally requesting that he take no action at this time, in order to allow Benga to
pursue its legitimate legal avenues on appeal. The Minister did not respond. Benga then wrote to the Impact Assessment Agency of Canada on July 6, 2021, advising that failure by the Minister to hold the federal process in abeyance pending resolution of Benga’s legal challenges in the Court of Appeal of Alberta would seriously prejudice Benga and potentially those Indigenous groups that may benefit from the Project. The Agency did not respond." CEO of Benga, John Wallington, said in a statement "we are dismayed that Canada’s Minister of Environment could render a decision so hastily, and based on a report that is facing multiple legal challenges. Not only were the Minister’s and Cabinet’s decisions premature and ill-informed, they were also made without adequate consultation with the relevant First Nations, something that is unconscionable within the rigours of a modern regulatory approval process.” In their press release, Benga states the judicial review in the Federal Court of Canada is being sought on grounds that: "• The Minister improperly failed to consider Benga’s request to hold a decision statement in abeyance while the Alberta Court of Appeal considered the JRP’s decision; • The Minister improperly relied on a fundamentally flawed JRP report to reach his decision; • The Minister reached a decision prematurely, knowing that if the JRP report was quashed or sent back for reconsideration, then the Minister’s decision would be invalidated. • The Minister unreasonably found that the Project is likely to cause significant adverse environmental effects; and • Prior to the Minister’s Referral Decision, the Federal Crown failed to consult, or failed to adequately consult, with Indigenous groups." Benga also says they are "seeking a judicial review on the grounds that
the Cabinet’s decision incorrectly or unreasonably relied on the Minister’s fundamentally flawed Referral Decision. If the Referral Decision is quashed or set aside, the Cabinet’s decision must also be quashed or set aside." Wallington stated in the press release that Benga has done everything they were supposed to do throughout the process. “Throughout the years-long application process which Benga has diligently followed, Benga and its First Nations partners have respected and adhered to the rules,” Wallington said. “Benga’s parent company has to date outlaid in excess of $700 million in acquiring the Project and in pursuing the necessary regulatory approvals. At the time of acquiring the Project, we were warmly welcomed and made to feel that Canada was very much open for business and intent upon attracting international investment and capital for the development of large-scale projects that would stimulate the economy and provide employment opportunities and jobs. We were acutely aware of Canada’s international reputation as a destination of choice for mining projects that could be developed without political interference within an open, transparent and fair regulatory regime. However, the Minister’s and Cabinet’s decisions that we are now seeking to review raise serious questions about sovereign risk and just how open, transparent and fair the regulatory regime actually is.” Crowsnest Pass Mayor Blair Painter says he is also disappointed in the decision. "I'm quite disappointed in their decision. I don't think they really did the investigating that needed to be done. I believe they based their decision on the AER's decision only. The statement they put out was really just a blanket statement. They didn't get into a whole bunch of detail. I'm still awaiting to hear from them personally to try and get more details from them."
Wednesday, August 18, 2021 - Crowsnest PAss herAlD - 3
In the lIne of fIre Between August 9 and August 16, Crowsnest Pass RCMP responded to a total of 57 calls for service including the following reported incidents. Two (2) assaults, two (2) threats/harassments, two (2) mischief/vandalism, one (1) theft of motor vehicle, one (1) theft, one (1) impaired driving, one (1) disturbing the peace, six (6) other criminal codes, seven (7) other provincial statutes, seven (7) driving complaints, seven (7) motor vehicle collisions, six (6) assistance to general public, two (2) 911 calls, two (2) animal calls, two (2) municipal bylaws, one (1) lost and found and one (1) abandoned vehicle. Abandoned Vehicle On August 10th, 2021, there was a complaint of an abandoned vehicle in a parking lot. Enquiries were made and it was determined the vehicle was left there for repairs. Outstanding Warrants On August 10th, 2021, a male turned himself
into the detachment on outstanding warrants from another Alberta Agency. He was released on document for Pincher Creek Court. Suspicious Male On August 12th, 2021, there was a complaint of a suspicious male outside of a commercial business. The male was urinating outside the building. Police attended and located a 37-year-old male from Foothills County. He was issued a violation ticket under Environment and Protection Act. Littering On August 12th, 2021, there was a complaint of a female dumping garbage in an alley behind a residence in the back alley of 115 Street in Blairmore. The female was caught and cleaned up garbage. Impaired Driver On August 13th, 2021, there was a complaint of a possible impaired driver. The vehicle was located at a liquor store parking lot. A 40-year-old female driver from Brooks
~ rCMP news ~
showed signs of alcohol consumption and provided a breath sample of fail. Her driver’s licence was suspended for 30 days and her vehicle was towed and seized. Lost Hikers On August 13th, 2021, there was a report of two lost hikers in the Ranchlands area. Foothills Search and Rescue were called and located the two hikers from Edmonton area. Illegal Dumping On August 14th, there was a complaint of illegal dumping of sewage and garbage on 63 Street on the road to Knowles Flats. Suspects could be charged under the Environment and Protection Act if located. Damaged Vehicle On August 14th, 2021, there was a complaint of a damaged vehicle down an embankment on East Hillcrest Drive. The owner was contacted. He advised the vehicle had been stolen overnight. The vehicle was towed
The Simple Raven’s Post by Avner Perl
What makes us tick? When you are a child, you think that the greatest thing is to grow up. Adults have all the freedom that you envy, and they get to make the rules. I remember my teenage years and later watched a “replay” as my kids were growing up. All adults can tell you that becoming an adult is just the beginning, not the end. There is a lot to learn, but most people are afraid to do things. The catchy phrase is, “who is going to pay for it”. We try, learn, and pay for our mistakes that we adults know we will make. Who is going to pay is also the main reason for people to choose a political philosophy to follow through life. We have three main political systems to choose from. Christian: give your material possessions away and attend to helping the poor. Only monks and crazy people follow it. “I fought and worked hard for my things and will not give them away.” Well, the funeral director tells me that eventually, we do. The Liberal system is another. We place all of our resources and efforts into looking after all humans and guide them to be fruitful if they can. They cheat and try to live well while we work hard to pay for it. They should have done what we did, so they would have what we have. As my old hunting partner used to say, If they want to eat they must work. We can work moving forward or be stuck in a dead-end job until the end. Next comes the Conservative view, greatly promoted by the writings of Charles Darwin about evolution. Nature looks after all problems. Now it’s the Market, not nature. The fittest survive and the weakest perish. Big dog eats smaller dogs and governments should stay out of it. That philosophy is missing a major component. The wolf pack can hunt the great bear. The ants defeat the grasshopper and the viruses beat the mighty humans. That philosophy denies taking chances and expanding. Young people are eager to face life, believing that they will work and study hard and have a significant life, and a few do. If we include all the world population, we see that most people struggle hard to have the bare minimum and often less. That is the direct outcome of our greatest invention, money. Gold and other rare metals used to be the medium of exchange. For convenience, we changed it to paper money and recently into electronic digits. Both are plentiful and can’t easily be controlled. First, we were strict about how much was circulating
from location. REMINDER to residents and owners of PETS, do NOT leave your pet in vehicles in the extreme heat, it could be extremely fatal to your PET Reminder to property owners to lock your doors and vehicles. Also mark your belongings and record serial numbers of tools and other important items. Reminder to residents of computer scams, credit cards scams, Grandparent scams, Revenue Canada scams asking for money or cash cards and saying warrants out for arrest, do not give out personal information to persons you don't know. DO NOT OPEN EMAILS if you are suspicious of its origin. Do NOT purchase gift cards for payment to Revenue Canada. Do not send monies to person claiming you have won a prize and need to send money for delivery. CrimeStopppers Tips 1-800-222-8477
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and people could trust it to some degree, but things have changed. We now see that it was just the beginning. Money is no longer a medium of exchange, it became a way to buy pleasure, avoid work, and hoard wealth. Christ told us to give it back to the issuing government, but we failed. Some did very well, mostly by finding ways around just using the money for exchange, while others slowly gave up freedom and became enslaved to some degree or another. Now we are adults and life has no mercy. You owe, you pay. In some places like Canada, we found ways to live and negotiate credit, payments, jobs, and all else, but there is another spectrum that we are unfamiliar with. Half of the world or more is living with hardly any money and all that it brings. While we try to buy pleasure, others can’t buy the necessities of life. They are on the move. Either they will find a way to survive or they will march. We believed that our military might will save us but recently discovered that the great United States can’t even win a war against the poorest most backwords country, such as Afghanistan. The Wolfpack can hunt the great bear. Now we also have to deal with a war against a virus. We could win, but the pursuit of money stops us. It also stops us from saving our planet from being killed and buried under garbage on the surface, in the water, and in the air. For example, we can look south of us where money won against people. We are honoured to be friends of the greatest empire the world has ever seen, but we see it crumbling down. Large numbers of their citizens don’t even have Health Care when they are sick. Many kids don’t have a proper diet and education. Yet they and other countries have people who own so much money they couldn’t spend it in many lifetimes. Some call them Oligarchs. We print or create money all the time. It finds its way to the richest people in the world rather quickly while others work two jobs and hardly affords food and shelter. Eventually, the poor people discover what the Taliban did. (I don’t like the Taliban.) They get weapons and beat the system. That is not the desired outcome. Humans could create money, as we do, and use it directly to do what we need by hiring, building things, and serving people. We don’t need to hand it over to a few individuals, in China, Russia, the USA, etc, and borrow it back on interest. We, the majority in society, can set our own new rules and not listen to those who say that we can’t. It’s just another monetary theory and we don’t have to set off inflation. Money performs and is taxed back to prevent inflation. Some very rich people advocate doing it when asked for their opinion. The main idea we must remember is that we are adults and should fix things in a way that works for us, not against us. Even the biggest business needs customers and starving people shoot not buy. Under that system, all of us could have much more time for leisure, and we would pay for it. Here is a link to my blog: https://thesimpleravenspost.blogspot.ca/ Feel free to check other articles and comment.
4 – crowsnest PAss HerALD – Wednesday, August 18, 2021
Wednesday, August 18, 2021 - crowSneSt PASS HerALD - 5
Second Public Meeting on Mining Scheduled for August Citizens Supportive of Clean Coal hold update meeting for community members on future of coal in the Pass DAviD SelleS Pass Herald Reporter
After a large turnout at the first meeting held in the Pass on changing the tune around mining, residents of the Crowsnest Pass will once again have the chance to meet and discuss the future. Eric Lowther, one of the main organizers of the meeting and a former oneterm Reform Party MP for Calgary Centre, says he hopes they can build off a successful first meeting. "The first meeting was very encouraging for the community and I think it gave everybody
hope that we might see a different outcome eventually." Lowther says he wants the community to stay engaged and continue to progress towards positive change. "We hope that the community continues to engage on this. We're going to report on some really good progress we've made and it has been quite good so far but we have to make a lot more if we're going to see a different outcome. We're trying to bring the truth forward in the face of well funded climate alarmists."
"We hope that the community continues to engage on this. We're going to report on some really good progress we've made and it has been quite good so far but we have to make a lot more if we're going to see a different outcome.” - Eric Lowther According to Lowther, the main goal of these meetings is to revisit the JRP decision on the Grassy Mountain Project. "Our goal is to see the Review Panel Joint process, restarted and treated more wholesomely. One thing to note is that the panelists that
were on the JRP were appointed prior to our current Premier. They were appointed by Premier Notley and that is a cause for concern for some people. Our hope is to see that review panel open up again and more fully look at the data and come up with a more reasonable
conclusion. There are a lot of people who want to intervene and present to that panel. We hope to have an outcome that allows for responsible mining that respects the environment but also lifts the economy in a time that we so badly need it." Lowther says there are plans to invite political representatives to these meetings in the future and Lowther also says he wants to make visits to their offices as well. "We've already started that a little bit and we're going to do a lot more. I've been in touch
with the Lethbridge City Council. I've also been in contact with MLA's and many have already contacted Minister of Energy Sonya Savage. People have been writing letters to representatives as well. We want to go beyond that though. Part of the discussion that will happen at the next meeting is that we want to form delegations of community leaders that will go and visit these people in their offices and tell them the other side of the story and make sure that they are aware that this is not working for the people of the Crowsnest Pass and actually not working for the people of Alberta or Canada. This is the kind of investment our province and our nation needs. We plan to visit all three levels of government and we're entering into election season so we'll be visiting those people with a clear message." The format for these meetings usually follows the same pattern. Lowther hopes to have some elected officials present at the next meeting. "The hope for this meeting is to have some of our current elected people there. We can also have industry experts who can speak to some of the issues and then we have an open forum for questions to anybody that has presented. We also have a call to action. Once people have been informed and they understand what's going on, we're looking for people to commit to either doing something as small as sending a note into their MLA or their elected officials or actually joining us in some of these meetings with the elected officials and help with some of the public awareness programs we have underway." One confirmed speaker for the next meeting is David Wilks, Mayor of Sparwood and former MP for Kootenay-Columbia from 2011-2015. The next meeting is taking place on the August 25 at the MDM Community Centre. Doors open at 6:30 and the meeting will take place from approximately 7pm-9pm.
6 – crowsnest PAss HerALD – Wednesday, august 18, 2021
Editorial Last Sunday Prime Minister Justin Trudeau dropped the Writ. Yes, our esteemed Prime Minister decided to call an election in the middle of the fourth wave and an election that, because of COVID restrictions, could cost you the taxpayer and extra 100,000,000 dollars. Yes you read that correctly! The election is on a fixed date so get ready for September 20, 2021. The day we either make history or keep the status quo. It’s no surprise that I’m a card carrying, board sitting Conservative Member of Canada. I have no issues telling everyone what I believe, never have. I don’t want another Trudeau representing my country. He’s embarrassed us on the world stage with his Bollywood comics, he has no ethics (even a commission said so) and he bends the truth. He’s no Trump, I’ll give you that, but he’s not a decent person who had to work to make ends meet. He has no concept of the middle class. He’s holding this election so that if he gets in he’s got four years to raise taxes on everything. We have to pay for the debt we’ve accumulated in COVID. He’s handed out money like a drunken sailor and eventually we will have to pay the piper. Contrary to what he believes, money really doesn’t grow on trees. We have a huge issue going on in this country. We have had so many handouts some people have come to expect it. We can’t find people to work. They would rather collect from the government under the guise of COVID. How many places have had to reduce hours because they can’t get staff to work? Less money in the economy will result in less revenue from small businesses so more taxes for you. The money has to come from somewhere. John Barlow, our MP, is an amazing person and friend. I met him when he worked at the Okotoks Western Wheel when he first decided to run and we have been wonderful friends ever since. He’s bullet smart, kind and a ‘real’ person. He shows up to events and represents our constituency with integrity and class. I’m a member of his EDA committee and I’ve been able to watch how hard he works for this constituency. He actually shows up for community events, not just during election time, but also throughout the years. You cannot ask for a better representative for your community. I would hazard to say he’s the best MP in Canada. I truly believe it! I’d follow that man through fire if he told me to, that’s how much respect I have. So the election is coming and John will be in town and I encourage you all to show up and talk to him. I’m helping him campaign in our community so if you want to help with signs, door knocking or the process give me a call. I have signs here in the office. Lots and lots of signs. The best part of John is he believes in door knocking. I had the privilege of walking about the Crowsnest Pass, Lundbreck and Cowley with John during the 2019 election. It was one fun day of visiting, laughing and meeting with people who respect this wonderful man as much as I do. I’ll be busting my butt to get this man re-elected and it’s wonderful to be a part of the process. I know that elections in Alberta don’t make a lick of difference in who will run this country, but we do need to make sure we maintain every Conservative seat we have in this great country. Get out, vote and support the Conservative wave in this country! LS
~ Letters to the the Editor ~
Policy: The Pass Herald welcomes Letters to the Editor that examine issues, but reserves the right to edit for length, libel and syntax. Writers must sign letters and include first and last names, address and telephone number. Address and telephone numbers will not be published. Only in exceptional cases will the Pass Herald withhold the name of the writer and in those cases the writer must disclose his/her name, address and telephone number to the Editor. Electronic email will be considered an electronic signature. Letters to the Editor do not reflect the opinion of the Pass Herald. Letters cannot exceed 1,000 words. We have limited space, but we do enjoy printing every article. So please, to allow everyone to express their opinion, keep the letters short and to the point. We do have the right to refuse any letter that in our judgement may contain libel or libelous opinions. Should a litigation result from your letter, you as the writer are responsible but so is this newspaper as the publisher. The Pass Herald is a family owned community newspaper and therefore reserves the right to refuse any advertisement that in our opinion does not follow our mandate. We cannot accept advertisements or letters criticizing or disparaging other advertisers, companies or individuals or any advertisements directed to a religion or race.
Layman’s look at the Selenium Fear Dear Editor, The creative ability of humans to address issues through technology is amazing and the rapid response to covid and development of vaccines is just one recent example. Another great example is the change in approach of Teck Coal in the Elk Valley to nitrite buildup and selenium leaching into streams. There have been and are issues being addressed at this time and with success. Some will say that selenium in excess happened in the Elk valley and will happen in the Crowsnest watershed. Let’s look at this fear amplified by the non-progressives (greens). Mining in the Elk Valley has been a significant factor for approximately 120 years with the common practice of establishing rock dumps. That is the removal of overburden and the dumping of the overburden over banks. It is from these rock dumps that naturally occurring selenium and calcite has leached (acid rock drainage) and made its way into the water system. The serious significance of this leeching is a more recent learning, and a “catch up” plan has been implemented with the goal of slowing, stopping and then improving on water and habitat in the Elk Valley watershed. This “catch up” process involves the application of effective water diver-
sions and breakthrough technological approaches to solve the problems. These approaches include: • Saturated Rock Fill (SRF) Technology • Geo-synthetic covering of waste rock A few statements from Teck’s web pages are helpful here: Saturated Rock Fill(SRF): The SRF facility uses naturally-occurring biological processes within the saturated zone of backfilled pits to treat the water by removing unwanted substances, namely selenium and nitrate. Mine-affected water is directed into the SRF facility where microorganisms use carbon to reduce nitrate and selenium. Geo-synthetic covers Geo-synthetic covers are low permeability synthetic membrane barriers placed over top of a waste rock pile to reduce water percolating through waste rock and carrying selenium and nitrate into the watershed. Calcite occurs naturally, but its formation can be accelerated by runoff water from mines. It is not a human health concern, but excessive calcite build-up can change the characteristics of streambeds, affecting habitat for fish and invertebrates. “Teck’s use of satu-
rated rock fills to treat mine-affected water is leading-edge sustainable technology. Saturated rock fill is extremely effective at removing selenium and nitrate from mine affected water and improving water quality” — Dr. Lisa Kirk, an affiliate professor in Montana State University’s Department of Chemical and Biological Engineering, who helped develop saturated rock fill technology. For the Crowsnest Pass River system and mining, we have the advantage of knowing there can be a problem. Knowing the significance of the problem is a first step in applying the correct counter measures which are available. We in the Crowsnest Pass can be the gifted recipients and users of new technologies that address the concerns of selenium and nitrates entering the water system, thanks to the technical developments learned from Teck’s Elk Valley experience. At the end of clause 848 of the Joint Review Panel decision we find the statement: “The Elk Valley serves as a cautionary example regarding what could occur when sources of selenium and calcite formation are not controlled. It affirms the importance of preventing problems before they arise, rather than relying on adaptive management after contamination prob-
lems have taken hold.” Section 848 and 1042 of the Joint Review Panel for the Grassy Mountain Coal Project both miss the point that the Elk Valley 120-year history is being addressed successfully and statements in clause 1042 must acknowledge the TECK Success story but guess what it doesn’t. This is another reason for reinstating the Grassy Mine Project with a panel committed to building relationships and creating jobs for Albertans. PS: We have excellent Metallurgical coal in high demand for the making of quality steel. We cannot live without steel and can “do it better” than those in other countries such as China. By better, I mean we can mine beyond basic compliance, with less impact on the environment, creating high paying jobs for Canadians rather than encouraging foreign country employment (where poorer coal yielding higher Co2 levels is mined and used as a substitute for our coal) and we can, and do, reclaim mine sites to a standard that enhances wildlife habitat. Recognizing that we can do it better than in other places in the world, should be acknowledged and alleviate the fears of the general public. Tim Juhlin Letters Cont’d Pg. 8
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Wednesday, August 18, 2021 - crowsnest PAss HerALD - 7
John Pundyk.CoM
Simply Selles Musings from your local reporter I’m back. After a whirlwind three weeks away I’m back in the Pass and ready to get back to work. I will spend some time recapping my holiday break but before I do that I want to take some time to talk about my dad. Some of you may have been wondering why a different David was writing the articles in the July 28th issue, our last one before our two-week summer break. The reason for that is I was back in Lethbridge with my family after hearing my dad was going to need surgery to replace a valve in his heart. My dad originally had open-heart surgery six years ago to replace the same valve in his heart. At that time, he chose to go with a bovine valve replacement to avoid going on blood thinners. Originally he was told that valve would last 10-15 years so it came as a massive shock to hear that suddenly, after just six years, he would need another open heart surgery. My dad ended up in the Lethbridge hospital for 5 days to be monitored before he was brought up to Calgary and while hospitals still have strict visitation rules for Covid-19 meaning I couln’t see him, I was happy to be with my family for that week as we awaited his surgery day and his recovery. My family has always been strong in adversity and we came together again through this time. The timing of all of this couldn’t have been better (or worse, depending which way you look at it). My dad got the phone call that he needed to go to the hospital for monitoring just as my mom and him were about to leave for camping. The rest of the family was going to join them at different points throughout the week for our annual family camping trip. While my family was unable to have that time together camping, we were incredibly thankful we were able to be together while my dad went through this. My dad ended up having his surgery on July 26th and everything went well. The doctor removed the old valve and they had to enlarge the area they attached the new valve to but everything went according to plan. This time, my dad got a mechanical valve, which means he’ll be on blood thinners the rest of his life but that is a small price to pay for all the amazing memories we’ll all make together still. Going into the surgery, my dad was warned this recovery may be more difficult as it’s hard on the body to go through another intense open heart surgery. My dad had other plans though as just four days after the surgery, he was on his way back home!! My mom and two older sisters were in Calgary after his surgery and the rest of my family were waiting patiently at home to see him again. We were all thrilled to hear how well his recovery was going. My dad has always been the rock of my family and now with this surgery, he’ll continue that role for many more years to come. He continues to crush his recovery at home now and will be all the way back to his normal self in a few months. Throughout all this, I was also able to enjoy my holiday break. I have a few highlights of this vacation. The first one would be making a trip up to Calgary to pick up my brother and sister-in-law who flew in from Ontario. I went up with some of my siblings to pick them up. The following days and weeks were spent doing a variety of activities. One day was a day trip to Writing-On-Stone with most of the family. I took my oldest two nephews on a trip through the hoodoos and we all enjoyed a swim in the river as well. My brother from Ontario and I also played an unhealthy amount of golf. We played so much my brother got hooked and actually bought a set of clubs before flying back to Ontario! Unfortunately, he was a better golfer than me from the get go. (I’m not sure how long the whole beginner’s luck thing lasts, we played 4 rounds and he beat me every time.) We also played a bunch of tennis where he also beat me every time. One day I’ll find something I can beat him at that isn’t a video game. The vacation also included watching my two oldest nephews play in their baseball and soccer games. My oldest nephew plays baseball and one of the games I went to watch him play he hit a triple! My second oldest nephew plays soccer and he scored a goal at one of the games I went to. The last activity I’ll touch on was a full out sports day with my three oldest nephews. We started the day with a mini baseball game, played some tennis, did an obstacle course, played some basketball and finished the day with some street hockey. My legs and arms almost fell off at the end of that day! Spending time with all my nephews and nieces is one of the best parts of going back to Lethbridge. The last major highlight of the vacation was my new niece being born the day before I left! Unfortunately I wasn’t able to meet her yet as they were still in the hospital when I left but I’m super excited to see her when I go back to Lethbridge next. I’m so grateful for all the family time I had, especially with my dad. I know it’s a long ways away but I’m already looking forward to next summer when my dad can join me and my brother in our tennis and golf games.
403
Royal LePage South Country Real Estate Services Ltd. blaIrmore commercIal Fantastic investment/revenue opportunity in Crowsnest Pass. Located on busy block main street Blairmore. Two-story 5,000 sq ft building is home to successful, long-established salon and spa. Two-bedroom guest suite upstairs at the front of the building. 3 additional studio apartments accessible at the rear. Double car garage from back lane. This is a "building/land only" sale. $369,000 CALL JOHN MLS
coleman Beautiful mountain acreage with stunning views of the Crowsnest Mountain and the Crowsnest Range to the south. 3 bedroom and 2 full bath home nestled in mature Douglas Fir forest. Perfect for secluded mountain cabin to call home. Minutes away from the Atlas staging area, Chinook Prov. Rec Area and the renowned Allison Creek Nordic Ski trails. $507,000 CALL JOHN MLS
562-8830 jpundyk@shaw.ca blaIrmore Beautiful mountain property in the Canadian Rockies. This two-bedroom, two-bathroom home is in Blairmore and has high quality updates, including bathrooms, kitchen, roof, flooring, paint, windows and much more. Large yard with back lane access. Wonderful central location. $289,000. CALL JOHN MLS
kananaSkIS WIlDS Beautiful mountain home with views to the south. Fully serviced with town water, municipal sewer, fire hydrants and wired high speed internet. 5 bedroom, 3 bathroom mountain home is European Alps inspired. Big timbers and artfully crafted Douglas Fir staircases. Master suite with 3 piece bath in the loft. 2 bedrooms and large room with kitchenette in lower area. 2,363 sq ft living space, plus 300 sq ft fully insulated loft above 24’ x 26’ garage. $725,000 CALL JOHN MLS
bellevue
3 IronSTone Fantastic 3 bedroom semi-detached bungalow with great mountain views. Hardwood floors, granite counters, hickory cabinets and fir doors. Main floor laundry. Fully developed with 3 bathrooms and large garage. Close to Castle Mountain and Fernie ski resorts. Great access to mountain backcountry trail network, golf course, and blue ribbon fly fishing. $384,000 CALL JOHN MLS
Fantastic opportunity for commercial location along busy Highway 3. East and West bound traffic access. Currently occupied as a successful fly-fishing shop, known to fly fishermen throughout Canada and the U.S. Can be sold as a business to someone wishing for a change of pace or for a property that can be re-purposed. C1 zoning allows for different opportunities. High traffic volume in front of the property. $435,000 CALL JOHN MLS
33 IronSTone
27 kananaSkIS courT
Under construction 2 beds up and 2 beds down. 3 bathrooms. Fantastic views. Main floor laundry. Open floor plan. Now under construction. Large double car garage. Spacious laundry room and storage area. Crowsnest Pass has beautiful mountain golf course, blue ribbon mountain fly fishing, cross-country skiing, hiking, mountain biking and short distance from down-hill ski resorts. $499,000 CALL JOHN MLS
59 kananaSkIS place
-Very large, fully serviced, mountain building lot at Kananaskis Wilds. This parcel of land, at 15,741 sq ft, has southern exposure and grand mountain views. Topography allows for a home with a south facing walk-out basement. Unusual value in this price range. Wired, high speed internet to property. Close to the Alberta Forest Reserve and hundreds of kilometres of mountain trails. Also close to Chinook Recreation Area and renowned Nordic Ski area. $127,000 CALL JOHN MLS
bellevue
Spectacular mountain views on large, fully serviced lot, high on north rim of the valley at Kananaskis Wilds. Fantastic building site. Easy topography to work with, which is a very important when choosing a building lot in the mountains. Exciting community just off Mountain Trunk Road 940. Serviced with town water, sewer, power, telephone, high speed internet, as well as fire hydrants. Development is just a few steps from rugged mountain terrain. Close to Alberta Forest Reserve. $124,000 CALL JOHN MLS
Affordable bungalow in the Canadian Rockies of the Crowsnest Pass. 2 bed, 2 bath home situated in quiet area of Bellevue backing onto green space. Fenced, sunny location. Sunroom which shares gas fireplace with living room. Quiet back yard. Crowsnest Pass offers golf course, walking trails and health care facilities. Attached garage with concrete driveway make for easy living. $319,000 CALL JOHN MLS
croWSneST mounTaIn lanD
Beautiful and still affordable mountain lot in the Canadian Rockies. Great location and fantastic mountain views. This lot is flat and suitable for many different building styles. Crowsnest Pass is a great mountain destination. The community is located on the Alberta/BC border almost equidistant between Fernie Alpine Ski Resort and Castle Mountain resort. Great access for year-round recreational activities and some of the best trail networks in the Rockies. $59,000 CALL JOHN MLS
3.5 acres near base of majestic Crowsnest Mountain and mountain range to the south. Zoned drive-in commercial allowing for potential of multiple uses. Possibility of a “Residence, secondary to an approved use” – as per municipal zoning by-law. Outstanding surroundings on the Continental Divide. $239,000 CALL JOHN MLS
coleman
hIllcreST
bellevue cafe Historic building with a mix of commercial on ground floor and residential up top. Formally known as the Bellevue Café. Private backyard. Solid foundation under the building. Perfect for a mountain get-a-way or a cool investment. $224,900 JOHN MLS
CALL
Wonderful 3 bed, 2 bath modular home in very desirable Monte Vista Park in Hillcrest. Stunning mountain views in excellent mountain community. This unit has a deluxe kitchen with beautiful cabinetry. Immaculate throughout and very affordable. $119,700 CALL JOHN MLS
coleman acreage neW IronSTone 35 New condo under construction. 2beds up, 2beds down, with 3 bathrooms. Spacious main floor laundry. Open floor plan. Large double car garage. Spectacular views and close to all amenities. Still time to choose your finishes. $499,000 CALL JOHN MLS
Mountain acreage with great view of the South Range. Close to backcountry up Kananaskis Highway and Forest Reserve. Close to town with many different building sites to take advantage of unparallel mountain living. Town water in front street. Opportunity to own 3 acres in the Canadian Rockies at a great price. $225,000 CALL JOHN MLS
AlbertA top ten royAl lepAge 2020
8 – CroWsnest PAss HerALD – Wednesday, August 18, 2021
Weed Control
On July 28, 2021, twenty-two (22) volunteers from various organizations including the Municipality of Crowsnest Pass, Waterton Lakes National Park, Nature Conservancy of Canada, MD of Ranchland and Safety Supply Chain Management Inc., gathered to hand pull (mostly) spotted knapweed from two properties in the Municipality of Crowsnest Pass. Approximately seventy (70) large yard bags (the equivalent of about 210 standard household garbage bags) of knapweed was successfully removed from the west shore of Gold Creek adjacent to the Frank Industrial Park and from the Trout Unlimited Canada Conservation property along the Crowsnest River near Hillcrest. Submitted photo
THIS WEEK AT THE PASS POOL *All are welcome for LEISURE SWIM!! (Check the schedule for many times through the week!) Leisure Swim is when all amenities (slide, hot tub, lazy river) are available except the Lap Pool.
Watch for “teen night” on Saturday, auguSt 28 – fun and gameS for teenS!
Wednesday, August 18, 2021 - CrowSNeSt PASS HerALD - 9
CNP Pass SPCA receives Community Initiative Grant Herald Contributor
For several years now, the CNP SPCA has badly needed to upgrade our animal enclosures. We were struggling with the 40 year old original floor enclosures made of expanded metal that was rusting and warping and far past being successfully repaired any longer. The existing enclosures were originally used to house dogs – cats were housed in the same room as the dogs, in plywood containments with chicken wire doors. We’ve come a long way since then! Once the extensions were completed to the facility by the CNP SPCA, the dogs were allocated distinct, separate and more than adequate
heated kennels and dog run area - the cats being housed in the main facility. Animal safety, volunteer safety, cleaning, sanithe general tizing, deterioration of the existing enclosures and the higher standards for our facility we were aspiring to, were all becoming an ongoing concern. The usefulness of these antiquated enclosures for the number of cats we were housing also became an issue. We started researching a solution and a plan to save a little each month towards the cost of new upgraded enclosures. Finally in 2018, we were fortunate enough to have developed a relationship with Bob Steven-
son of Shinesteel Custom Animal Enclosures out of Ontario who very well understood our dilemma and was willing to work with us towards a viable and affordable solution. Our first grant application, “while a worthwhile project” was not considered a priority in the criteria so we were declined for funding although we were encouraged to reapply. The second year, 2019 Covid hit – government programs were discontinued indefinitely. 2020 we were encouraged to reapply and in 2021 our grant application for our project to upgrade our enclosures was approved. Thank you very much to the CIP (Community Initiatives Program) in making our dreams come
Herald Contributor photo
The Crowsnest Pass SPCA received a much needed grant that helped pay for new animal enclosures. The new enclosures were installed at the facility on July 9th. The enclosures make a proper and safe solution to storing the number of cats currently housed at the SPCA.
true!! Bob Stevenson and Shinesteel Custom Animal Enclosures came through with flying colors. They worked very hard to keep close to their quote from 2018. Bob at Shinesteel offered advice and options and we finally settled on 3 banks of animal enclosures, 8 feet long, 3 levels high, stainless steel, easy clean, on wheels, and moveable from room to room! With the financial help from Community Initiatives Program, we were on the road to successfully completing a long, long, long awaited project. Our delivery day finally arrived on July 9, 2021. We were so excited!! Many, many, many thanks to the super big hearted people who came out to help: Frank Loseth, Coleman Seniors President, Darcy and Robin Smigelsky of Smigelsky Builders (Robin is a long term volunteer with the CNP SPCA), Aaron Miskulin of Aaron’s Drywall, Ben Clark of Wilshire Builders, Geoff Dexter, Vyk Harnett of CNP Technology Ltd./CNP Recycling for documenting our special day with photo coverage, Mabel Wrigley (long term volunteer with the CNP SPCA),
Ken Wrigley and of course our “cat distraction team” Sasha and Sam Ranson who amused the 24 cats at the facility and ensured none escaped, while the new enclosures were being brought in and assembled. The day could not have happened without all of your heartfelt help and concern. You are all valued more than you know. Thank you so much!! CNP SPCA would also like to thank Kevin Tkachuk and Allied True Value for their support with the prep materials and paint to refurbish our rooms before the enclosures were brought in, Rod Powell of RRP Services for assisting with the dismantling and the eventual proper disposal and recycling of the original deteriorating cages, and Kaitlyn Slump of Kat’s Welding & Inspection Services Ltd. and Sean Simpkins for assisting in the disposal and removal of the old enclosures. Thanks also goes out to our paint crew: Robin Smigelsky, Terri York, Kaitlyn Slump and Taylor Amos –your time and effort in cleaning, washing walls and painting prior to the arrival of the enclosures is greatly appreciated. We could not have
completed this project – so long in coming – without the support of our community and our friends of the CNP SPCA. Thank you from the bottom of our hearts to all of you who continue to donate to our cause!! We are so very grateful to the friends and supporters we have. Thank you so very much for the support you have shown us over the past. Our facility is so much better for your help and now we can continue more comfortably with our support to the community. We are an upgraded facility, we are able to better manage our responsibilities and day to day operations and we are better prepared to address any viral or health issues that may come into the facility. We are hoping in the near future to offer an “Open House” day for those of you who have not had an opportunity to visit our facility or to those who have not visited recently. We are always enthusiastic to show off our facility to whoever is interested! We have been here for you for over 40 years and will continue to support the Crowsnest Pass community for many years to come. Now with some of the Covid restrictions being lifted, we hope to resume more normal hours of operation very soon. We welcome new friends and visitors and hope you will drop in!! Watch for our new hours of operation that will be posted on our facility door and on our website at www.cnpspca.org.
10 – Crowsnest Pass HeraLD – Wednesday, August 18, 2021
A&K Self StorAge Located in the Frank Industrial Park
Units range in size from 5' x 10', 10' x 10', 10' x 15', 10' x 20', sea can 8' x 20' and a 12' x 20' building with auto garage door. Units are finished inside with hard board or plywood and freshly painted. Some units are inside chain link fenced area. All units have interior lighting. Area is secured by exterior lighting.
Residential & Commercial Excavating Landscaping • Snow Removal
jfilipuzzi@shaw.ca
403-563-7285
lorne@completeext.ca
lannie@westerraearthworks.com
Glen Girhiny 403.563.0300 glen@realestatecentre.ca
13013-20th Ave., Blairmore 403.562.2844 @RealEstateCen
Real Estate Centre
Crowsnest
t&s self storage
taxi 403.583.4000
Units in Frank Industrial Park
5’x10’ • 10’x10’ • 10’x15’ • 10’x20’
Call 403-563-8384 - availability & Prices
summit storage • Secured by Video • Dry & Clean • 24 hr Access • Caretaker on Site • 1280 CU Ft. 8x8x20 • Free Local Transport to Storage • RV Storage • Water Available
403-583-0020
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Wednesday, August 18 , 2021 - crowsnest PAss HerALD -11
Looking Back By John Kinnear
Remembering the Coleman Rodeo Part One- 1946-1954
The excitement one felt on rodeo day in my home town was palpable. It was in the air that something big was coming down. The planning and preparations were always our first clue as kids. Town crew workman could be seen erecting a massive fir archway downtown that stretched across the width of Main Street. A giant “Welcome” sign! Stores would be putting out western decorations and everyone seemed busy. We all recognized it was getting close to rodeo time.
For a young boy such as myself this was a pretty big deal. After all, there wasn’t much going on in the summer other than swimming at the West Coleman swimming hole or going “up the bush”. I have wonderful personal memories of the rodeo events as do many others of us that can harken back to the 1950’s. To really grasp just how important the rodeo became and just how big it got I am going to draw, once again, on the newspaper clippings of a writer who knew full well just how to report and promote this remarkable event. Vern Decoux’s scrapbooks from 1951 till 1960 contain all there is to learn about the evolution of the “Crow View” Rodeo. Vern is remembered by most as an important Pass photographer but he also wrote for the Crow’s Nest Pass Bureau of the Lethbridge Herald for over thirty years. He loved the Pass and skillfully wove his articles on the goings on here with passion and accuracy. The rodeo’s origins date back prior to his reporting, to 1946, when the first rodeo venture was organized. According to the interpretive sign at Flumerfelt Park it was designed as a fundraiser to “repair or replace Coleman’s hockey arena.” That year the hill above the park (now Horace Allen High School grounds) was graded and covered with fill by the International Coal Company in time for the first rodeo. The sign states that besides drawing the top cowboys and performers of the day to the event, it boasted a carnival, a parade, the crowning of a rodeo queen and a western dance. If you thought there wasn’t much work to setting up a rodeo you would be gravely mistaken. In Crowsnest and Its People Volume 1 I found two sentences that elaborate in detail on what it took to pull one off. Be sure to take a deep breath before reading the second sentence because it’s a dandy. “Hours of work were spent in constructing the judges’ stand, corrals, chutes, grandstand, catch-pens, and ground improvement. Some other activities were erecting wire and split-rail fences, digging post-holes, contracting for stock and feed, unloading and herding stock, compiling, printing and distributing advertising material, arranging the parade and carnival, building booths and ordering supplies for them, drawing up prize lists, securing cowboys, judges, and entertainers, selling tickets, and arranging to film the events. Whew! Okay you can breathe now. What say we wend our way through Vern’s annual write ups to give you the reader an idea of the broad spectrum of happenings throughout the rodeo’s 15 year history, starting in 1951. 1951: Headline - “Hundreds Watch Colorful Parade As 6th Annual Coleman Rode Opens” Vern describes the site as follows, “The grounds are nestled in a valley on the west side of which a gradual sloping hill forms a natural side for bleachers. From the grounds can be seen all the well known mountain peaks in the Pass.” That year Gloria Ryznar was crowned rodeo queen by Mayor Frank Aboussafy. As an aside; Frank Nageeb Amil Aboussafy, originally from Lebanon, was first elected mayor of Coleman in 1943 and served in that capacity until 1962 . Frank retired in Calgary and lived to the age of 101. Bands in attendance that year were the Michel-Natal Brass Band, the West Canadian Collieries Band and the Coleman Pipe Band. There was no mistaking master piper Mr. Moore as he led his band proudly down the street for years. 1952: “Two-Day Stampede At Coleman Proves Outstanding Success” In charge of the arena that year and for many years after was none other than Herman Linder, a rancher and rodeo promoter and competitor from Cardston. Linder eventually won the Canadian All round championship 7 times and the North America championship 5 years in a row. The rodeo ran for two days that year and was “an outstanding success”. Rodeo winners listed in his 1952 report came from places like Sweet Grass, Montana; Newgate, B.C.; Ponoka and Hardisty, Alberta; Los Angeles, Arkansas. Buddy Heaton, a wildly entertaining rodeo clown, from Hogoton, Kansas, showed up with his famous trained jackass. Buddy also used to ride an old bison named Old Grunter and true to his free-spirit rode him in John F. Kennedy’s inaugural parade in 1961. Apparently without security clearance. Also in the entertainment section that year was the remarkable Pauline Picard and her golden palominos. The history of North America rodeo contains images of many fabulous women trick riders like Pauline. In front of a huge hillside crowd she jumped those palominos over a late 1940’s Chevy convertible. Now that’s entertainment! 1953: There were several related articles that year in the Lethbridge Herald because the 8th annual rodeo became an integral part of Coleman’s Golden Jubilee. It was a weeklong memorable occasion that started with the always entertaining Hose Laying Competition traditionally held on July 1st. It was reported that there were over 4,000 people at the rodeo which had, in the always enjoyable entertainment section, a slack rope artist named Calgary Red who was expert at balancing on a loose wire. The rodeo Brahma bull winning rider that year was Ralph Sappington from Roseberg, Oregon and the calf roping award went to Bill Stover from Tularosa, New Mexico. These were pro-rodeo competitors and came each year from all over North America to compete at Coleman which became part of the official rodeo circuit. 1954: This was a huge year for the 9th annual rodeo. The big deal that year was a blackout bingo at the arena where a new 1954 Pontiac was the prize. It was won by a 9-year-old from Michel. Town policeman Ed Corson was always the principle parade organizer, a huge job back then. That year featured rodeo stock from Kessler and Bold, the Cranbrook Girls Band, 60 floats, clowns, decorated bicycles and cars and stretched a mile long. The rodeo, which was sponsored by the Coleman Board of Trade, was underwritten that year by Pass businesses should it not break even. Everybody was committed to making this event a success. There was a lot of extra preparation that went into 1954 as the rodeo became more successful. Repairing fences and corrals smashed by the Brahma bulls was one of them. For us, as kids, there was no wilder entertainment than the brahmas and that event was always held last. They had a tendency to wreck things. You just never knew how things would go with the brahmas. We all hoped one of the big beasts would break free and head north up the McGillivray Mine way. Of course if it were to happen we would all have to go looking for that wildeyed menace, which we envisioned as a dangerous and exciting game. One of Vern’s 1954 headlines read “Taber Cowboy Wins Top Award At Coleman Rodeo”. That cowpuncher was Bud Van Cleave, who took home the honours of winning the all-round cowboy and also won the steer decorating award, taking home $400 and two saddles. His award was sponsored by none other than the Great West Garment Company (GWG). Vern was absolutely religious about his reporting details and not a single name nor any important detail was missed in these huge event reports. This took a tremendous about of diligence and his work stands as an important historic record of just about every significant thing that happened in the Pass throughout his career. Also within the article in mentions that Princess Wapiti , Queen of the Calgary Parade, led the Coleman parade. The one and only Bruno Engler also showed up that year to photograph, in black and white, rodeo scenes and the parade itself. Bruno was renowned as a photographer, mountain climber and guide and at one time was a ski instructor at our ski hill. Bruno’s work was turned over to the CBC in eastern Canada for showing over television. So we were re- Photos from top: Famous Coleman rodeo arena director Herman Linder - Vern Decoux, Pauline Pickard jumping ally hitting the big time by 1954. her palominos - Vern Decoux, The one and only Coleman rodeo parade - Crowsnest Museum, Coming out Author’s Note: The size and success of the rodeo continued to build through the following six years to a point that of Chute 5 -Backbreak BIlly - Crowsnest Museum, The will literally astound you with the statistics that emerged from Vern’s reporting. His imagery is iconic and memorable. natural ampitheatre rodeo grounds" - Crowsnest MuSo be sure to check out Part Two – The Coleman Rodeo – 1955 to 1960 soon. seum.
12 – CROWSNEST PaSS hERald – Wednesday, august 18, 2021
Busy Year for Sweet Riders Sweet Riders Youth Mountain Bike Summer Camp happened during July 17-20th. It was the first time they ran consecutive day camps and it was a great success, the Sweet Rippers Camp aged 5-8 ran from 8:30-12:30 for three days and the Gravity Grinders Camp aged 8-14 ran for 4 consecutive days. A total of 25 youth came out for the fun. Sweet Riders will also be running an August Youth Camp, from the 17-20th and there are still a few spots open. See Sweetriders.com for more information and registration. Herald staff photo
~ Letters to the the Editor cont’d from pg. 6 ~ Westslope Cuthroat Trout Dear Editor, In January of 2021, I submitted an article to the local papers regarding: Cutthroat the Spotted Owl of the Crowsnest Pass? Unfortunately, my prediction came true in the negative decision on the Grassy Mtn Mine project and here is a small excerpt from that article: It appears that biologists want the habitat for cutthroat to be deemed critical not only in the stream and stream buffer strips, but also for the entire landbase. It is in this way that the Cutthroat can become the perfect surrogate for halting all development of the Eastern slopes and thus
rendering communities depending on primary resources to poverty status. Surely there are means by which to develop a West Slope Cutthroat Recovery Plan that allows for development and increasing numbers of pure stream WSCT in lower population number streams? In that article I referenced Elizabeth Nickson’s book Eco-fascists: How Radical Conservationists are Destroying our Natural Heritage. I find myself again considering this book in light of the cutthroat theme. Here are a few lines from page 202 of Eco-Fascists that are relevant to Alberta:
“According the Norman Macleod, executive director at the recently founded Environmental Sciences Independent Peer Review Institiute7 in Washington, D.C., the Fish and Wildlife Service likes to manage everything by sub species and distinct population segments. But there are a considerable number of biologists who don’t agree that you should manage anything by subspecies or even that there is validity to subspecies, much less distinct population segments. It is likely that the very slight genetic differences in fish from one creek to another -- which is what is meant by “distinct popu-
lation segments’--- are unnecessary for the survival of the species as a whole. But Fish and Wildlife manages those creeks as if each were absolutely critical… … Here’s the point. Is the goal to protect habitat or prevent human activity on the landscape?” Westslope Cutthroat (WSCT) are found in abundance in the Yukon and British Columbia and as biologists survey Alberta streams along the eastern slopes, more and more segment streams are found to contain pure stream WSCT. The placing of two small streams into a higher risk is not a mine project denial position! The two streams on either side of the Grassy Mountain Open pit mine
are small drainages with limited populations of WSCT and they drain into the Crowsnest River where perhaps there are no pure stream cutthroat. Fishing is very limited with no guided fishing occurring on the streams due to poor access and rough terrain. It seems reasonable to recognize the economic benefits of mines and the purchase power of mine dollars to complete enhancement work on other streams in the area for cutthroat. The net result would be a positive for WSCT recovery planning. This ability of coal mines to generate funds for research & enhancement to meet Recovery Plan objectives for threatened species like WSCT is also a posi-
tive for five needle pines (Limber and Whitebark Pines threatened by White Pine Blister Rust) and rough fescue . The ability of “Mines” to provide offset funding to meet recovery plan goals cannot be ignored in the assessment of a future coal policy for Alberta. The benefits of completing enhancement work for WSCT on other streams on the eastern slopes of Alberta was not considered in the Grassy Mtn Coal Review process. This is another reason for reinstating the Grassy Mine Project with a panel committed to building relationships and creating jobs for Albertans. Tim Juhlin
Crystal Meth - What is it and where can a person go for help? Cpl Mark aMatto Crowsnest Pass RCMP
Addicts of methamphetamine can be extremely unpredictable, violent and aggressive; this presents a challenge for Emergency Medical Workers and Law Enforcement Officers when
they interact with a client who is under the influence of this drug. Crystal Methamphetamine is listed in Schedule I of the Controlled Drugs and Substances Act; it is illegal to posses, sell (trafficking) or consume this illicit drug of
RCMP photo
Crowsnest Pass RCMP are making residents aware of the dangers of Crystal Meth. There are many dangerous side effects that can come from consuming methamphetamine. It is important for everyone to recognize the potential harm this dangerous drugs can cause.
the amphetamine family. Methamphetamine earned its “Crystal” moniker due to the crystalline shards that drug users recognize it by, however it may appear in the form of capsules, pressed pills or powder. Methamphetamine is consumed orally, inhaled by snorting, smoking and injection. Upon the consumption of this powerful psychostimulant, the effects are felt almost instantly and the users feel more alert and more dominant. Users typically present a variety of symptoms such as insomnia, anxiety and depression; and may also display psychotic symptoms such as paranoia, hallucinations and obsessive delusions. Methamphetamine users may display the following physical disorders: • General deterioration • Flushed or pale complexion • Dilated pupils • Headaches • Trembling/shivering
• Dry mouth coupled with a persistent unpleasant taste in the mouth • Loss of appetite and weight • Extreme acne/open sores • Constipation or diarrhea
• Hyperthermia, convulsions and death Where to go for help? • Addiction and Mental Health Hotline (866) 3322322 This 24hr/7days a week service is staffed by a multidisciplinary team
comprised of Nurses, Psychiatric Nurses, Social Workers, Occupational Therapists and Psychologists. • Crowsnest Pass Addiction Clinic (403) 562-5041 • Crowsnest Pass Mental Health Clinic (403) 5623222
Crowsnest Crossing update DaviD SelleS Pass Herald Reporter
The Municipality of Crowsnest Pass announced last month the selling of the old hospital site for the purpose of commercial development. The land was sold to 293038 Alberta Ltd, a Lethbridge based real estate developer. The company has previously constructed Westgate in west Lethbridge and also own a number of other retail and industrial properties in Lethbridge. So far, a Dairy Queen, Edo Japan, a cannabis retailer and a Wyndham Branded Hotel have been confirmed as users on the site. Mayor Painter says the decision was an easy one for the municipality to make. "We wanted to sell it and we felt the area would be best suited for highway commercial." Mayor Painter adds that this was a good opportunity for certain businesses to come to the Pass. "It's an opportunity for our commercial sector to grow. I think this is a great opportunity for more highway commercial type businesses to locate in this area." Construction on the site could start as early as October 2021.
Wednesday, August 18, 2021 - crowsnest PAss HerALD - 13
NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND CLAIMANTS Estate of MONICA LINDA pRIMROSE, who died on June 14th, 2021. If you have a claim against this estate, you must file your claim by September 20th, 2021. and provide details of your claim
For Rent
For Sale
To inquire about the availability of an apartment for rent in Blairmore call 403-562-8144. 1 TFN/NC
Lovely bi-level home for sale. 3 bdrm upper with 1 bdrm legal suite (optional) in lower. 3 baths, den, wood-burning stove, gas fireplace, 2 outdoor decks, double garage shed and cassita. Asking $350,000. Phone 403-715-3965 or 403-753-5379; at 2922-225St. Bellevue, AB. 33-1C
One bedroom, two bathroom for rent, laundry and den. 1000 sq. ft. Walk in, single attached garage and two car off street parking. 10X10 fenced private patio. Southern exposure. Quiet senior upper unit opportunity for long term. Family plan is to keep house as vacation property. Rent $1000 including utilities. No pets, N/S. Not a party house $1250 if you have a small pet. Call John at 403-562-7999. 22-TFN
Services Is alcohol affecting your life? Alcoholics Meeting are Wednesdays and Sundays at 7:00 pm at the Lion’s Club, 12130 Ave. Blairmore. 1-TFN
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Rick Rypien RemembeRed August 15
We held you when you Came into this World A beautiful gift from above You grew into a fine young man A man everyone loved You were a hero and a treasure As short as your life was And you brought so much pleasure As a talented young man does We will always remember you From the moment you were born Until the last breath you drew Forever your loss we mourn We held you when you left this world With a sorrow ever deep And try to accept how one so young Has met with eternal sleep One day we will meet again Altho’ we know not when To laugh, to love, you will never leave For this we pray, for this we know You told us to always believe ~ Always loved, always remembered Dad, Nola Judge, Grammy, And the entire Rypien family Life is not measured by the number of breaths we take, But by the moments that take our breath away - Maya Angelou
MORE! Visit www.montgomeryauctions.com or call 1800-371-6963.Coming Events FIREARMS WANTED FOR AUGUST 21st, 2021 LIVE & ONLINE AUCTION: Rifles, Shotguns, Handguns, Militaria. Auction or Purchase: Collections, Estates, Individual Items. Contact Paul, Switzer's Auction: Toll-Free 18 0 0 - 6 9 4 2609, sales@switzersauction. com or www.switzersauction.c om. STRATHCONA VINTAGE TRACTOR ASSOCIATION Antique Tractor Pull/Show August 28-29. Bremner Historic Mansion Farm site. 53452 Range Rd 225, Sherwood Park, AB. Free Camping, Kids Activities, Vendors, Tents, Garage Sale. $5/day. Website: strathconavintagetractor.com.
Farm Machinery BLANKET THE PROVINCE with a classified ad. Only $269 (based on 25 words or less). Reach almost 90 weekly newspapers. Call NOW for details. 1-800-282-6903 Ext 225; www.awna.com.
ing. Awnless. Excellent variety for Forage or Feed Grain production. Low inputs - high Profits. Call 403-556-2609 or text 403-994-2609; mastinseeds.com. ALBERTA FEED GRAIN: Buying Oats, Barley, Wheat, Canola, Peas, Screenings, Mixed Grains. Dry, Wet, Heated, or Spring Thresh. Prompt Payment. In House Trucks, In House Excreta Cleaning. Vac Rental. 1-888483-8789. HEATED CANOLA buying Green, Heated or Springthrashed Canola. Buying: oats, barley, wheat & peas for feed. Buying damaged or offgrade grain. "On Farm Pickup" Westcan Feed & Grain, 1877-250-5252.
Health HIP/KNEE REPLACEMENT. Other medical conditions causing TROUBLE WALKING or DRESSING? The Disability Tax Credit allows for $3,000 yearly tax credit and $30,000 lump sum refund. Take advantage of this offer. Apply NOW; quickest refund Nationwide: Expert help. 1-844-453-5372.
Real Estate
Services
Hunters Paradise - Land for sale. SE12 . 80 . 12 – W6. Bonanza, Alberta. Recreational – Young growth trees $280,000. Phone: 403-773-2438 Serious Inquiries only.
CRIMINAL RECORD? Why suffer employment/licensing loss? Travel/business opportunities? Be embarrassed? Think: Criminal Pardon. US entry waiver. Record purge. File destruction. Free consultation. 1-800-347-2540. www.accesslegalmjf.com
Feed and Seed PINTAIL WINTER WHEAT. Extremely hardy. High yield-
with
Morgan Primrose Box 931 Coleman, AB. T0K 0M0
If you do not file by the date above, the estate property can lawfully be distributed without regard to any claim you may have.
pART-Time HOme ViSiTOR in cROWSneST pASS Ab – 19.5 hrs/week Are you a caring, empathic individual looking to make a difference in the lives of young children, parents and your community? On the hunt for meaningful, rewarding part-time work in Crowsnest Pass and area? Join our team! We offer an exceptional benefits package including vision, dental, extended health, health spending account, three weeks vacation, plus time off between Christmas and New Years. Home visitors provide information, support and encouragement families need to help their young children develop optimally during the early years of life through home visits, group programs, child screenings, and referrals to community resources. Ideal candidates will possess a strong background in early human development and parent education along with superior communication, networking and interpersonal skills. Assets include a human services related diploma or degree, such as child and youth care, and applicable supervised experience. Valid driver’s license, insurance and roadworthy vehicle required. Candidates are invited to apply with cover letter and resume to: Attn: Program Manager South Region Parents as Teachers #71, 4510 Fairmont Gate S. Lethbridge, Alberta T1K 8J3 parentsasteachers@lethsd.ab.ca Fax: 403-320-5989 To view the full posting visit our website: www.southregionpat.ca
14 – Crowsnest pass HeraLD – Wednesday, August 18, 2021
Celebration of Life
NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND CLAIMANTS
Brian Luini
Estate of ISAbEL MARgARET SquIRES, who died on July 25th, 2021. If you have a claim against this estate, you must file your claim by September 20th, 2021.
The Graveside Ceremony honouring Brian’s life will be held on Saturday, August, 21 at 1pm in the Hillcrest Union Cemetery with Deacon Renso Castellarin officiating. Fantin’s Funeral Chapel in charge of arrangements. 403-562-8555
and provide details of your claim with
The estate of the late Isabel Margaret Squires 35545 RR43 Red Deer County, AB T4G 0L7
If you do not file by the date above, the estate property can lawfully be distributed without regard to any claim you may have.
STEPHEN ALPHONSE OSADAN February 23, 1943 ~ July 31, 2021 It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Stephen “Steve” Osadan on July 31, 2021 at the Chinook Regional Hospital, Lethbridge, AB. He was 78 years of age. Steve was born in Blairmore, AB on February 23, 1943 to proud parents, Martin and Annie Osadan, and he matured into a hardworking and good-natured young man. His upbeat personality and bright smile helped him win the heart of the love of his life, Cathy Beck. The happy couple married on July 25, 1987 and they went on to be blessed with almost thirty years of marriage. Growing up in the Crowsnest Pass, Steve had a true appreciation for the outdoors and he enjoyed it whenever he could while hunting, fishing, or camping. He also liked going to casinos to try his luck. Over the years, Steve was an active volunteer for many organizations in the Crowsnest Pass, Lundbreck and Pincher Creek such as Citizens on Patrol and the Royal Canadian Legion - most recently Branch 43, Pincher Creek. He also loved dogs and, more than anything else, spending time with his family and friends. Steve was an incredibly happy person who almost always had a smile on his face and a joke at the ready. Wonderful memories of him will remain in our hearts forever. Left to mourn his passing and celebrate his life are his many nieces and nephews including Margaret Jones and children, Lindsey Jones and Ryan (Elisha Self) Jones, Leslie (John) Orleni and children, Brenda (Aaron Frederick) Verbaas and Michael Verbaas, and Byron Voytko; his great and great-great nieces and nephews; his brother-in-law and sister-in-law, Billy and Jill Beck of Osoyoos, BC; and countless friends, especially his best friend, Les Robertson of Pincher Creek, AB. He was predeceased by his beloved wife, Cathy Osadan; his parents, Martin and Annie Osadan; his brothers and their wives, Martin (Midge) Osadan, Joe (Carol) Osadan and John (Margaret) Osadan; and his sisters and their husbands, Veronica (Frank) Edl and Cathy (Leon) Grosso. With respect for Steve’s wishes, no funeral service will be held. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations will be gratefully accepted by your local S.P.C.A. or animal shelter. Condolences may be registered at www.fantinsfuneralchapel.ca
Fantin’s Funeral Chapel entrusted with the arrangements. (403) 562-8555
IRIS RUZEK (Née: Garrett) March 25, 1929 ~ July 28, 2021 It is with immense sadness that we announce the passing of Iris Ruzek on July 28, 2021 at the Crowsnest Pass Continuing Care Centre, Blairmore, AB. She was blessed with ninetytwo well-lived years. Iris was born on March 25, 1929 in Coleman, AB to nurturing parents, Bert and Olive Garrett. She matured into a beautiful, kind young woman who captured the heart of Rudolph “Rudy” Ruzek. The happy couple wed on July 27, 1946, then went on to raise a lovely family of their own and to create countless wonderful memories over their sixty-year marriage. Iris was a hardworking, devoted wife, mother and grandmother who was well-known for her baking and cooking, especially her dumplings, pickled eggs and cabbage rolls. She also had a talent for knitting and crocheting. When she wasn’t busy taking care of her home and family, Iris enjoyed gardening, camping, dancing and playing cards. (She would often take advantage of her advancing years to bend the rules of the latter.) Iris was always quick to offer help and support to her family, friends and community. Over the years, she was a proud and active member of the Royal Canadian Legion Branch 19, Bellevue, the Maplevue Hall Association and the Bellevue Seniors’ Centre. Many words come to mind to describe Iris: intelligent, independent, determined, accepting and gracious to name but a few. She also had a dry, very “British” sense of humour and was a jokester who knew how to throw a good fast butterball. Iris meant so much to so many, and she leaves behind a legacy of precious memories. She will be forever remembered with love and respect. Left to mourn her passing and celebrate her life are her children, Judy Biafore, Larry (Debi) Ruzek, Brian (Marie) Ruzek, Richard (Bonnie) Ruzek and Holly (Bob) Gardiner; her grandchildren, Chad, Shonalie, Carly, Brandi, Kristopher, Ryan, Shelbey, Alycia, Kelsey, Jordan, Meghan, James and Mariah; her great grandchildren, Karson, Landen, Joey, Rosie, Lucca, Leonardo, Crimson, Carter, Cloe, Bryce, Korbin, Jaxon, Brie and Weston; her brother, David (Wendy) Garrett; as well as her extended family and many friends. She was predeceased be her husband, Rudolph “Rudy” Ruzek; her parents, Bert and Olive Garrett; her son, Roy Ruzek; her great granddaughter, Jacey Uphill; her brother, Roy Garrett; and her son-in-law, Carmen Biafore. The Funeral Service will be held at 11:00am on Thursday, August 5, 2021 at Fantin’s Funeral Chapel (13461 – 20 Ave., Blairmore, AB) with Rev. Renso Castellarin officiating. Immediately following the Funeral Service, interment will take place at the Hillcrest Union Cemetery, Hillcrest, AB, followed by a luncheon at the Royal Canadian Legion Branch 19, Bellevue (2401 – 213 St., Bellevue, AB) hosted by the Bellevue Legion Ladies’ Auxiliary. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations will be gratefully accepted by the York Creek Lodge Residents Association (PO Box 1050, Blairmore, AB T0K 0E0). Condolences may be registered at www.fantinsfuneralchapel.ca.
Fantin’s Funeral Chapel entrusted with the arrangements. (403) 562-8555
Wednesday, August 18, 2021 - crowsnest PAss HerALD - 15
ELIZABETH (BETTY) LESKOSEK March 08, 1930 ~ August 02, 2021 Elizabeth passed away peacefully with family members at her side in Rocky Mountain House, Alberta. She leaves behind children Frances Owen, Leslie Leskosek, Rudy (Lois) Leskosek, Wes North, Frank (Donna) Leskosek, Pauline Pettersen, Mary (Andy) Warnock, Otto Leskosek, Kathleen (Rick) Leavitt, Peter (Charmaine) Leskosek, Joe Leskosek and 34 grandkids, 44 great grand children and 7 great great grand children. A funeral service to honour Elizabeth will be held on Wednesday, August 11th, 2021 at the Seventh Day Adventist Church, 5204 – 48th Street, Rocky Mountain House, AB at 1:00pm. Interment to follow at the Pine Grove Cemetery with a reception to follow at the family farm, located 1.5km east of the cemetery. Those wishing to make a donation in Elizabeth’s name may do so to ADRA Canada (Adventist Development and Relief Agency) or STARS AIR Ambulance. Condolences may be forwarded to: www.rockyfuneralhome.ca Cremation entrusted to Rocky Mountain Crematorium, Rocky Mountain House, Alberta Rocky and Sylvan Lake Funeral Homes and Crematorium, your Golden Rule Funeral Homes, entrusted with the arrangements, 403 845 2626.
GEORGETTE ELIZABETH ERNESTINE VIGNA (Née: Podgornik) June 8, 1946 ~ August 8, 2021 It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Georgette Vigna of Coleman, AB on August 8, 2021. She was 75 years of age. Georgette was a dynamic individual with many interests. She could often be found enjoying the outdoors while gardening or going for rides in the backcountry. In quieter moments, Georgette liked to curl up with a good book or create a variety of crafts. Both her social and competitive sides were satisfied when she engaged in playing darts, cribbage and bingo. More than anything, Georgette cherished time spent with her family and friends. The love she had for them is eternal and she will live on in precious memories. Left to mourn her passing and celebrate her life are her children, Lynn (Marius) Mortensen of Okotoks, AB, Dean (Sylvia) Vigna of Brooks, AB and Brenda Vigna of Blairmore, AB; her grandchildren Crystal Heer, Cecil Mortensen, Jessica Heer, Joey Mortensen, Angel Woitte, Jamie Vigna, Brittany Vigna, Breanna Mortensen, Ashley Vigna and Jennelle Mortensen; her great-grandchildren, Amber, Aiden, Lucas James, Vienna, Izabelle, Tetra, James and Lucas; her brother, John Podgornik of Blairmore, AB; as well as her extended family and many friends. She was predeceased by her husband, Dominic Vigna; her parents, Thomas Podgornik and Louisa Podgornik (Née: Houze); her sons, Brian David Vigna and Wayne Brian Vigna; her granddaughter, Janessa Lynn George-Vigna; and her long-time companion, Cecil Oelke. With respect for Georgette’s wishes, no funeral service will be held. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations will be gratefully accepted by The Lung Association, AB & NWT (www.ab.lung.ca). Condolences may be registered at www.fantinsfuneralchapel.ca.
Fantin’s Funeral Chapel entrusted with the arrangements. (403) 562-8555
ISABEL SQUIRES 1929 ~ 2021 In the afternoon of July 25th, 2021, Isabel Margret Squires (Nee: Cumming) passed away peacefully at the Crowsnest Pass Continuing Care Centre in Blairmore, Alberta. She was 91 years old. Isabel passed away just over a month after the passing of her beloved husband of 72 years, Leslie Squires; they shared a long and happy life together on earth and have now been reunited in a better place. Born in Ardrossan, Alberta of pioneering Scottish stock, Isabel was raised on a homestead in the Edson area where her family lived off of the land and engaged in mixed farming. As a teenager, Isabel was determined to strike out on her own. Saving up the proceeds from her trap-line, she headed to the big city (Edmonton). From there, Isabel and her sister, Chris, joined the adventure that was the building of the Alaska Highway and soon found themselves in Whitehorse where Isabel met, fell in love with and married a young soldier named Les. Over the next 20 years, their young army family grew and Les and Isabel were posted to various bases in almost every province in Canada. Isabel was a fiercely independent and intelligent woman who kept her sometimes rebellious children and her husband on the straight and narrow through a combination of sheer willpower, love and an evil eye that could stop any misbehaving child or husband in their tracks. Always interested in current events, Isabel loved to talk politics and enjoyed a lively debate on almost any subject. To her family, she was just Mum, a woman who loved her children and tried her best to ensure they had good, happy and fulfilling lives. Isabel and Les had many great adventures together. They died as they lived their lives, following one another onto the next great adventure. She will forever live in our hearts and in our memories. Isabel is survived by her children, Sandra, Leslie (Pat), and Douglas (Constance); her grandchildren, Shauna, Patricia, Jonathon and Natalie; great grandmother of Jackson, Kieran and Scarlet; and her brother, John. She will also be fondly remembered by her many nieces and nephews. She was predeceased by her husband, Leslie Squires; her son, Stuart Squires; her parents, John and Myrtle Cumming; her siblings, James, Muriel, Christine and Robert; her son-inlaw, Keith; and sister-in-law, Margaret. A private family gathering was held at Fantin’s Funeral Chapel to pay tribute and to say farewell to this amazing and inspirational lady. In lieu of flowers, donations in memory of the late Isabel Squires may be directed to the Shriners’ Association. Condolences may be registered at www.fantinsfuneralchapel.ca.
Fantin’s Funeral Chapel entrusted with the arrangements. (403) 562-8555
16 – CrowSneSt PASS HerALD – Wednesday, August 18, 2021
Pass Piranha’s Swim Meet
The Pass Piranha’s Swim Club held a meet at the Crowsnest Pass Pool on Saturday, August 14th. Swimmers of various ages from across southern Alberta took part in the daylong swim meet. Overall, the day was a great success as the swimmers got to showcase their skills in one of the first swim meets since the lockdowns. David Selles photos
Grassy Mountain Mine – Restart JRP update MDM Community Centre Wednesday - August 25th Doors open At 6:30pM Meeting stArts At 7:00 pM • good news updates • statements from our elected representatives. • Benefits of Coal industry David Wilks, Mayor of sparwood and former Mp for Kootenay-Columbia from 2011-2015. • Call to action Citizens Supportive of Crowsnest Coal. Responsible Mining, Environment and Economy.