Fantasy cabin experience expanding near Blairmore Charmed Resorts adding fantasythemed accommodations Nick AlleN Pass Herald Reporter
Charmed Resorts is adding additional cabins to its existing collection of fantasy-themed accommodations north of Blairmore. The owners of Charmed Resort, Tyson and Audrey Leavitt, have been building playhouses for close to seven years but opened the resort just over a year ago. “We did our first cottage a little over two years ago,” said Tyson Leavitt. They said opening during the pandemic worked well for the business, providing a place for people to be with cohorts and have the space all to themselves. “I think a lot of Albertans were looking for something close to home, and so we had a lot of local support that first summer,” said Audrey Leavitt. They said having a more local audience allowed them to learn what people wanted out of visiting Charmed Resorts. Tyson Leavitt said there are now people coming for a stay in their cottages from as far away as Australia The duo said they loved their job building playhouses and the ability to expand their creativity and skills but not being able to see their work again after they were done was saddening. “Few people can afford a luxury playhouse or have room in their backyard for a luxury playhouse,” said Audrey Leavitt, “[We] wanted to make a place where all sorts of people could come and enjoy what we build without having to buy one and take it home.” Tyson Leavitt explained this is how they get to keep their creations close. Charmed resorts started with three cottages and has been steadily growing since. By the end of the summer, they plan to have 10 more unique experiences for vis-
Nick Allen photos
The owners of Charmed Resort, Tyson and Audrey Leavitt, with their ‘Elven’ cottage at the resort on July 7.
itors in a second location. “So, we have a few that are still secret, but we have announced a couple, so we've announced Bell’s cottage from Beauty and the Beast, so it'll be like a little French cottage,” said Audrey Leavitt, “We've announced two of our Peter Pan builds. One is going to be Wendy's townhouse and one is going to be the Lost Boys Treehouse.” They revealed a third one relating to Peter Pan as well. Captain Hook’s pirate ship. “I think that's [going to] be probably a crowd favorite with people,” she said. There are also plans to add amenities in each of the existing cottages along with adding a restaurant. No theme was unveiled for the restaurant yet but they expect people to be excited. A plan is also being devel-
oped to add a fairy trail that leads from one section of the resort to the other. Work on the resort takes time according to the couple. The hand carving for the beanstalk on one cottage took a “good month” to complete. “We have a team that is obviously extremely talented, a lot of them have been with us for a lot of years,” said Audrey Leavitt, “We even have some people that have been with us since the beginning of our company.” They also thanked the community of the Crowsnest Pass for embracing the business. Requests have been coming in for a town event, so they started planning for Halloween activities at the resort. Visit charmedresorts.ca for more information or to book your fantasy experience.
2 - CROWSNEST PASS HERALD - Wednesday, July 13, 2022
Children’s book author visits local library Nick AlleN Pass Herald Reporter Author Pamela McDowell is touring southern Alberta with her newest book, coming to the Crowsnest Community Library on July 15 at 2 p.m. The new book, Fire on the Mountain, was inspired by the Kenow wildfire that happened in 2017. She said for that reason, the story might be of particular interest to residents of the Crowsnest Pass. “The important thing about fire on the mountain is that it doesn't attempt to create fear about fire. Instead, I try and convey the idea that fire is a natural part of our environment and that we can prepare for it,” said McDowell. It is not the first of her books to be set in the Waterton area, with her previous four children’s novels sharing the
setting. She said she was inspired by the biodiversity of Waterton. “Where the mountains meet the plains is just so abundant with different species of wildlife and species that are at risk and things like that... there's a lot to write about,” said McDowell. She said connecting with the young readers is fun with her presentations focusing on science. “Science is a big part of each of my books. I do extensive research generally into the species, whether it's ospreys, salamanders, bats or cougars.” said McDowell. For this book she did a lot of research into wildfire including the causes of it, how animals respond to wildfire, how people respond, the technology to track fires and how to battle wildfires. “It's educational for both the adults that might bring the kids as well as the young readers,” said McDowell, “Reading part of the story to the kids is always lots of fun too.” She enjoys connecting with the reader's imagination and tries to keep that in mind while writing. McDowell focuses on creating books for young people who are just experiencing reading on their own, maybe for the first time. “Their imagination is growing and so to be able to write a story that excites them and inspire them, that really is my favorite part about writing,” she said. Visit pamelamcdowell.ca to see the rest of the books
she has published including her non-fiction work.
Nick Allen photo
The cover of Pamela McDowell’s new book, Fire on the Mountain. She is visiting the Crowsnest Public Library on July 15 at 2 p.m.
International Readers Look who we caught reading the Pass Herald in the sun! Mira Heitland, from Germany, is in town visiting relatives and stopped to take read the local news. Lisa Sygutek photo
Wednesday, July 13, 2022 - CROWSNEST PASS HERALD - 3
Police Briefs 2022 JUL Media Summary for the week of: 04 - 11 Between July 4 and 11 the Crowsnest Pass Detachment received 56 calls for service. These calls included one assault, three threats/harassment, two mischief (vandalism), two thefts, three disturbing the peace, two other criminal code, three other provincial statutes, 10 driving complaints, 13 motor vehicle collisions, three assistances to the general public, five suspicious occurrences, three assists to other agencies, one 911 call, one false alarm, three lost/found and one abandoned vehicle. Hit and Runs On July 5, 2022, there was a complaint of a hit and run involving a building in Blairmore. The vehicle and driver were located in Pincher Creek. A 23-year-old male from Lethbridge was arrested and charged with mischief, failing to remain at an accident, no registration, no insurance, misuse of licence plate and driving while unauthorized. His vehicle was seized and towed by police, and he was released on documents for Pincher Creek Court. On July 8, 2022, there was a complaint of a hit and run to a parked vehicle on 22 Avenue in Coleman resulting in damage to a 2021 Toyota. Shoplifting On July 5, 2022, the detachment received a complaint of shoplifting from a business in Coleman. The female suspect from Elk Valley was identified and police contacted her regarding the incident, and she was advised to pay for the items taken. Restaurant Disturbance On July 6, 2022, there was a complaint of a disturbance at a restaurant in Blairmore. Police attended and arrested a 62-year-old male from Medicine Hat. He was charged with assault and causing a disturbance. He was released on documents for Pincher Creek Court.
Canada Day Incident On July 7, 2022, the police received a report of damage to a vehicle parked in Blairmore. The incident occurred on July 1 and is under investigation. Attempted Theft On July 7, 2022, there was a report of an attempted theft of a gas gauge from outside a shop in Coleman. The item was located a short distance away in back alley
DiD you know?
Humans are the Only Animals That Enjoy Spicy Foods!
Highway Accident On July 8, 2022, there was a report of injury from a highway vehicle accident. A 43-year-old male driver from Alabama was injured and taken to Calgary Hospital via Stars for his injuries. The accident occurred in the Atlas Flats area . Weapon in Public On July 9, 2022, police received a complaint of a suspicious person walking around property in Frank with what appeared to be gun. Police located the 32-year-old male suspect where he was arrested and charged with possessing a weapon dangerous to public peace and breach of release conditions. A Justice Hearing was held where he was later released on documents for Pincher Creek Court. Lost and Found Found tools in Coleman. Anyone missing tools please contact RCMP detachment. Found house key with Swiss flag key tag. Reminders to the Public Residents are asked to be aware of phone scams saying they are from Border Services that there is a suspicious package for them and possibly a warrant for arrest. Reminder to property owners to lock your doors and vehicles. Mark your belongings and record serial numbers of tools and other important items. Reminder to residents of computer scams, credit cards scams, Grandparent scams and Revenue Canada scams, 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 money to a person claiming you have won a prize and need to send money for delivery.
The Simple Raven’s Post by Avner Perl
You have been cheated One of the worst feelings is finding out that someone has cheated on us while another is that someone doesn’t trust us. I fend off many attempts by others trying to cheat me and know people who have been severely harmed. I guess some folks make cheating into an extensive business. A relative of mine was cheated out of thousands of dollars. He was not a rich person but a hard worker who saved all his life to have a decent retirement. Another, a widow, lost her retirement home and had to move to a senior care facility. We hate those who cheat, but if we meet them, they don’t look like scammers. They are often nice and we admire them for being good businessmen who “made it.” I also know good people who made it by doing more than others were willing or able to do. It’s possible to be successful while being honest. Sometimes it seems as if God favours honest, hardworking people. Other people make you wonder how God can allow such evil in the world. People say, “if there is a God…” and go on from there. Parents try to shield their kids from harm so they teach them to cheat, in self defence, of course, but it doesn’t stay that way. I remember when my son was young, a coach for little kids’ hockey, doing his best to teach the tykes how not to get caught cheating. He was honestly trying to help the little guys to win and build their self-confidence. Now we see regular reports of mass shootings. There are always victims, often innocent children. They are trusting little creatures who are cheated out of life. A person wants to prove a political point and kills children to get a point publicized in the media. Cheating and expecting cheating as a way of life became the norm. Many of us wouldn’t leave home without a radar detector activated in the vehicle. Traffic laws and speed limits are there to protect us and to lower insurance costs. Most of us employ accountants to do our tax declarations and save money from the tax authorities. That is the money that pays for our public infrastructure, government services, and national defence. We shouldn’t need accountants and lawyers since having them gives us an advantage that poor people can’t afford.
HWY #3, Frank • 562-8043
Insurance Companies don’t warranty repair work. Repair Shops do.
Quality Workmanship • Guaranteed
YOUR choice for auto body repair.
403 563 3999
People in the medical professions are fighting to get reimbursed for investing in their own education while there is a movement towards diverting public funds into private hands reducing health investment per capita. Sick people are shuffled around the country in search of healthcare and those who have the means jump to the front of the line. “Reducing wait lines” we are told. Rural communities no longer enjoy emergency health services. The latest mass cheating is making the news as I write. Premiers and Prime Ministers are exposed to doing what the electorate doesn’t agree with and get kicked out. They resign with fanfare and come back the next day as interim leaders. They cheat their voters to gain time to finish doing what got them fired in the first place. Often, finishing the job includes great personal benefits that are not available to the taxpayers who finance the ventures and suffer the consequences. The president of the richest empire on Earth was impeached twice, lost the elections, and is planning to run again. Much of the cheating that plagues humankind is available to abusers, since the masses cannot learn the truth. The mass media used to expose cheating but has been bought by big businesses that depend on cheating to be in power. We teach reporters in school to be the eyes and ears of the public, but they can’t find employment if they are honest. Where we have assumed democracies, billions of people end up voting against their self-interest, believing that they are saving themselves from corruption. Protecting ourselves from cheating is a very expensive proposition. Police, lawmakers, courts, and ultimately armed forces eat up half or more of our collective earnings from what we produce. There is only one planet suitable for human habitation that we have access to. It seems to be tailor-made to provide all that we need. We have a built-in ability to shape it into what the mystics described as paradise. Ancient religions told us about that utopian place where humans and other living things enjoy eternal existence. Go to any religious writings and you will find a description of a perfect place where everyone is happy and there is no cheating or effort to catch cheaters. First, you notice that there is equality there. Perhaps everyone is equally poor. That wouldn’t work, since being poor is associated with suffering or shame. In Heaven, there are no poor people. How would all be happy if there were a disadvantaged class? Perhaps all are rich. Again, it wouldn’t work. The rich wish to be better than everyone else. The solution is what we already have. All people have some gifts that others don’t and they trade and share. Equal but different and proud to be what they are with no need to shame themselves by cheating. I know of a place where there are signs that people understand the concept that if we hurt others; we harm ourselves. I live here. Look around. Here is a link to my blog: https://thesimpleravenspost.blogspot.ca/ Feel free to check other articles and comment.
4 - CROWSNEST PASS HERALD - Wednesday, July 13, 2022
Herald Editorial
Herald ‘Letters to the Editor’ Policy 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 600 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. Deadline for submission is the Friday prior to publication.
lisa sygutek We have an election coming up on October 6th for the leadership of the United Conservative Party (UCP). There are several candidates vying for the coveted position of running this great province. I had the honour of attending a meeting with Travis Toews in the spring at the Maycroft Hall. It was an intimate meeting and I was there to hear him speak. At the time Toews was there as the Finance Minister meeting with constituents and I wanted to meet the man. I have liked Toews for a long time. He is a working class man, educated and smart. He seemed to me to have a lot of common sense and charismatic but not in a boastful way. After listening to him talk, I was not let down. He was everything I anticipated. I will tell you, I have had the pleasure of meeting several politicians, some I was in awe of and some a bit disgusted; Toews was not one of the latter. When doing a bit of research into Toews, I contacted Hugh Lynch-Staunton, who has been in the political game for years, and is as honest as they come. This was his response: Travis Toews was elected to the Legislative Assembly of Alberta on April 16, 2019, as the MLA for Grande Prairie-Wapiti. A lifelong resident of Alberta, Toews and his wife live in the Grande Prairie region and have three children and 11 grandchildren. He has considerable business experience, and holds a CPA and CMA accounting designations and prior to pursuing business interests, spent twelve years in a public accounting practice. In the past fifteen years, he and his wife Kim, have invested in, managed and grown a corporate family cattle ranching operation and an oilfield environmental company. Toews has served as a Director on a number of local non-profit boards, as well as provincial and national industry boards and committees including the Alberta Beef Producers and the Canadian Agri-Food Trade Alliance. He was elected President of the Canadian Cattlemen’s Association in 2010 and served until the term end in 2012. Toews co-chaired the Agri-Innovators Committee for then Federal Agriculture Minister, Gerry Ritz. As a Canadian representative on the Asia Pacific Economic Cooperation committee on food security and a member of the Country of Origin Labelling Canadian World Trade Organization Legal working group, Toews has worked globally to support Canadian interests in international trade. In 2012, he received the Queen Elizabeth II Diamond Jubilee Award presented by Prime Minister Stephen Harper and Governor General David Johnson for contributions to Canadian Agriculture and Trade. Toews was appointed as Alberta’s President of Treasury Board and Minister of Finance on April 30, 2019. Toews will be in the Crowsnest Pass at the Lions Pride Hall in Blairmore on July 25th from 4:30 to 6:00 owsnebuilding stpassherald.ca p.m.. There is no charge to attend. Let’s fillcrthe and ask the questions that are pertinent to our passhcommuerald@shaw.ca nity. I wonder how many candidates will take the time 403.562.2248 to come to the community. I hope a lot. I want to ask FIND Uviews S ON: them several questions about the government’s on our Garden of Eden. In order to vote for the next leader of the UCP you need to have a membership. We will be selling memberships at the door. So come down to the Blairmore Lions Hall on July 25 at 4:30 and meet the first candidate to come to the Crowsnest Pass and showcase our interest in the next leader of the UCP party. We are in interesting times in Alberta and the country. With gas and food prices on the rise, it breaks my heart thinking that people are sacrificing food to heat their homes, that kids may be going hungry. We all need to know who can run this great province and now you have a venue to do it.
Letters to the Editor Net-Zero can happen with investment Dear Editor: One year ago, the Canadian Net-Zero Emissions Accountability Act became law. The legislation commits the federal government to the ambitious goal of achieving net-zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2050. To meet its target, the government has called upon public and private stakeholders to join in this mission. Innovating and enabling the energy sector to meet these goals requires significant investment. The shifting global energy landscape is creating opportunities. Domestically and abroad, governments and key decision makers are reimagining energy dependencies and identifying solutions to transition to a cleaner economy. The private sector is investing in these new opportunities and creating innovative solutions. Canada has an impressive record of being the bestin-class energy provider in the carbon-based economy, but now needs to act boldly to attain that position in the low carbon economy. As global demands for green energy solutions persist, we have reached a watershed moment. Canada must become a destination for green energy investments, but to do so, Canada needs to foster a more appealing investment environment than it currently has. Governments traditionally play a role in infrastructure investment at times of pivotal change. Australia presents a great case study for this. The Australian Renewable Energy Agency (ARENA) is equipped with an AUD$2.5 billion fund to advance renewable energy technologies towards commercial readiness. This Federal fund is strongly supported by multiple State grant programs, such as the Queensland’s Solar 150 Program, and New South Wales Pumped Hydro Recoverable Grants Program both of which have been excellent drivers of public-private partnerships directly supporting Australia’s net-zero goals.
Crowsnest Pass
Herald Serving our communities since 1930
Australia’s Clean Energy Finance Corporation (CEFC) and Northern Australia Infrastructure Facility (NAIF) offer low-cost debt to renewable projects at all stages of development. The creation of these bodies is a strong investment signal to the private sector, that can be a catalyst to securing strategic partners and offtake agreements. Canada needs to create similar agencies with this intent. Integrating best practices from around the world will not only help Canada achieve its net-zero objectives, it will also diversify the economy, spur economic growth, produce world-class clean energy projects, and drive the creation of high-quality jobs in the clean energy and cleantech sectors. Canada is a country of innovation – and the energy sector is up to the challenge of creating a more sustainable future. Across the country industry leaders are reimagining how and where we can produce energy. In Alberta, our team is investigating how to convert an existing, idled coal mine into a renewable energy complex that will include a 320MW pumped hydro energy storage and a 100MW green hydrogen electrolyser. The proposed Tent Mountain Renewable Energy Complex will store wind and solar energy, provide essential stabilizing services to Alberta’s electricity grid, and accelerate grid decarbonisation. The green hydrogen production is planned to use renewable energy to convert sustainable, locally sourced water into the lowest carbon intensity hydrogen that can be produced. This project will revolutionise energy production in southern Alberta and will result in the permanent closure of a coal mine. Solutions like this represent the paradigm shift Canada needs to achieve its net-zero objective. To see these projects come to fruition, Canadian governments need to make seed investments like the Government of Australia is making. Local, provincial and federal government officials must work with private sector partners so together, we can transform Canada’s energy sector. Cementing Canada’s status as a global clean energy powerhouse is possible. The private sector is investing, but we need all levels of government to commit to supporting the transition to achieve this ambitious goal by 2050. Peter Doyle is the Managing Director and CEO of Montem Resources Ltd.
For news stories contact us at: Lisa Sygutek - Publisher ol. 92 No. 27 passherald@shaw.ca Nick Allen - Reporter/Photography July 6, 2022 403-562-2248 John Kinnear - Feature Writer For on-line$1.00 subscriptions visit our Avner Perl - Feature Writer website at passherald.ca Owned and Operated by Lisa Sygutek
PUBlIShEd EvERy WEdNESdAy COPYRIGHT NOTICE: The entire contents of Crowsnest Pass Herald are protected by the Law of Copyright. No portion thereof is to be reproduced without the specific permission of the publisher. EstablishEd in 1930 sErving thE community for 92 yEars
SUBSCRIPTION RATES: (GST Included)
• Single Copy: $1.00 • Crowsnest Pass and Area - $45/year (within a 40-mile radius) • Seniors -$40/year • Outside a 40-mile radius - $65/year •USA - $75/year
Office Hours: Monday to Thursday Located at 12925 - 20th Ave. Box 960, Blairmore, AB TOK OEO 10 am - 4 pm
Visit us at: passherald.ca Contact us at: passherald@shaw.ca
Wednesday, July 13, 2022 - CROWSNEST PASS HERALD - 5
6 - CROWSNEST PASS HERALD - Wednesday, July 13, 2022
Groups working together to enhance main streets Fred Bradley outlined incentive on behalf of historic resources Nick AlleN Pass Herald Reporter Nick Allen photo
A committee representative spoke with council last week about maintaining, improving and enhancing historical buildings in downtown areas of the Crowsnest Pass. Chairman Fred Bradley outlined the incentives proposal on behalf of the Municipal Historic Resources Advisory Committee (MHRAC). The proposal asked council to consider exploring and adopting policies that provide an option to incentivize commercial property owners into improving their buildings within Historical Commercial Overlay Districts and other business districts in the municipality. “This administration has suggested that we try to put together policy recommendations for Council to consider in a package,” said Bradley. According to information from the MHRAC, between 2013 and 2019 the Municipality of Crowsnest Pass developed three inventories of historic buildings in the communities that lead to the Heritage Management Plan (HMP). The HMP recommends the development of incentives for landowners to pursue getting their buildings designated as provincial or municipal historic
Downtown Coleman has several refaced business fronts and existing businesses that have been build to look historic. Above is Crowsnest Coffee, a new build that fits in with the historic motif and Artist’s Touch which has been renovated beautifully. Both building help make downtown Coleman looking historic and beautiful.
resources. The MHRAC wants council's direction to start refining these proposals and developing a community consultation program, including property owners, the Chamber of Commerce, Community Futures Crowsnest Pass, and other parties. According to Bradley, such policies will focus on the maintenance and restoration of facades for buildings and maintaining their structural integrity. Such incentives may include a joint program with Community Futures Crowsnest Pass to offer interest free Façade/Restoration Business Improvement loans for property improvements, a municipal tax incentive or credit program for Designated Municipal Historic Resources and other commercial properties and a property tax assessment freeze for Designated Municipal Historic Resources and other commercial properties for a fixed period.
“I think it's really timely that we're here to talk to you about this because this whole strategic plan, as one of its actions and milestones, [is] to create clean, vibrant and beautiful downtowns,” said Bradley, “We have some very incredible historic downtowns.” He said the historic buildings are getting new uses where they don't necessarily have to be historic. With opportunities for businesses to take over the space of old businesses for new ventures. “I think there's really good opportunity at this point in time because our Chamber of Commerce has changed dramatically, and they’ve changed their focus. I think this is a great step in the right direction,” said Mayor Blair Painter. More information on the delegation's proposal and the committee can be found at crowsnestpass.com under Municipal Government.
Wednesday, July 13, 2022 - CROWSNEST PASS HERALD - 7
Surveyors Historical Foundation pays tribute to Wheeler Dynasty Ken Allred, AlS Contributor
“I know of no more fascinating avocation than the disentangling of Nature’s puzzle in the breaking up of the original terrain and the reducing of it to a readable map.” Arthur O. Wheeler, DLS, BCLS, ALS, MLS, OLS Ken Allred, President of the Surveyors Historical Foundation, presided over a rather soggy unveiling of a monument and display panels commemorating the outstanding contributions of Arthur Oliver Wheeler to Canadian geography. The monument, located near the Upper Hot Springs in Banff, is a replica of an Alberta/British Columbia boundary monument accompanied by three display panels featuring significant aspects of his career. Despite the rain, a small crowd gathered to read the panels and commemorate Wheeler’s life as a land surveyor pioneering the art of photo-topographic surveying and founding president of the Alpine Club of Canada. The first panel, read by Dave McWilliam, describes A.O. Wheeler’s contribution as the British Columbia commissioner on the survey of the Alberta/British Columbia boundary some 100 years ago. Wheeler held five commissions, first as a Dominion Land Surveyor and then as a British Columbia, Alberta, Manitoba and Ontario land surveyor. He was a founding member of each of those organizations. The second panel was read by Isabelle Daigneault, President of the Alpine Club of Canada. This panel outlined the founding of the Alpine Club and Wheeler’s long service as president and managing director of the club. The third panel featured Claremount House, the final home of A.O. and his wife Clara. Clara was the daughter of the renowned Canadian botanist John Macoun of the Palliser expedition. This panel was read by Jennifer Wheeler Crompton of Vancouver, great granddaughter of Arthur Wheeler. Wheeler surveyed the continental divide, which forms the Alberta/British Columbia boundary, from peak to peak all the way from the international boundary to the intersection with the 120th meridian of west longitude. In ascending these mountain tops, Wheeler and an assistant had to carry heavy cameras and transits. In his keynote address entitled Grand Old Man of the Mountains, Gordon Olsson explained “To climb to the summit or a high ridge of a mountain, to take the observations and to descend could take twelve hours or more. Once they reached their destination, they often had to retreat because of bad weather, or smoke from forest fires, requiring returning another day.” This survey of approximately 1,000 kilometres extended over eleven
years from 1913 to 1924 ological Map of Canada. Jennifer and her son Jeff, a In 1906, Arthur Wheeler and Elizabeth Parker from glaciologist, retraced Oliver’s footsteps up Mt. Everest. Winnipeg formed the Alpine Club of Canada with Their journey is depicted in Martin de Valk’s award Wheeler being the founding president and prime mover winning documentary Wheeler’s Everest. Jeff, followon this initiative. As Isabelle Daigneault, President of ing in the footsteps of his predecessors, in Jenny’s words the Alpine Club of Canada commented “As one of the “Jeff did his PhD work studying the relationships bekey founders of The Alpine Club of Canada, A.O tween glacier dynamics and bedrock geology in the St. Wheeler was a driving force behind the sharing of sto- Elias Mountains, where almost a century ago, A.O. was ries of the ‘Canadian Alps’ with the world. This greatly involved in the boundary survey, and nearly half a ceninfluenced Canadian mountain culture in the first half tury ago, J.O. mapped the bedrock geology.” of the 20th century.” Conrad Kain, an Austrian alpinist A.O. was also a member of the DLS Intelligent came to Banff to seek the challenges of the Canadian Corps in the North-West Rebellion and was wounded Rockies and stayed on as one of Wheeler’s survey as- at the battle of Batoche in 1885. He was a pioneer of irsistants during the boundary survey. rigation in Southern Alberta and conducted many land Jennifer Wheeler Crompton made the trek from surveys in Alberta and British Columbia and authored Vancouver to participate in this unveiling dedicated to two volumes of The Selkirk Range based on his surveys her great grandfather. Jennifer was active in a move in of that BC mountain range. 2011 to save Claremount House, the final home of A.O. Wheeler was a familiar figure in the Crowsnest Pass and his wife Clara. The house was located on Sulphur over a century ago. In addition to the survey of the conMountain just below the Upper Hot Springs and was tinental divide from Waterton, through the Crowsnest demolished due to its ‘structural deterioration’ and the Pass and on to Mount Robson, commencing in 1913; belief that it was in a ‘wildlife corridor.’ The monument Wheeler surveyed coal mine leases in the Crowsnest and display panels are fittingly located at the edge of Pass in 1900 and also did photo topographic surveys in the parking lot leading to the Upper Hot Springs. Southern Alberta to locate irrigation reservoir and canal The ceremony was opened by Salman Rasheed, locations in the late 1890’s. Superintendent of Banff National Park and Banff Mayor A beautiful unveiling, despite the rain, became a Corrie DiManno, followed by presentations by Gordon celebration of the life of not just A.O. Wheeler but a celOlsson of the Surveyors Historical Foundation, and Jen- ebration of five generations of the Wheeler dynasty. nifer Wheeler Crompton. Gordon’s presentation outThe unveiling was organized by Parks Canada and lined the extensive career of A. O. Wheeler as a land the Surveyors Historical Foundation. surveyor on the irrigation surveys of Southern Alberta, The Surveyors Historical Foundation is a charitable the Selkirk Mountains in BC as well as the survey of organization dedicated to preserving and publicizing the the Alberta/British Columbia boundary. As Gordon said rich history of surveying in Western Canada. in his opening “It is a remembrance and celebration of the early surveyors to whom we owe much of our early knowledge of the Rocky Mountains.” In describing the photo-topographic method of mapping he explains “The method requires two interdependent field functions the triangulation survey office SPace for leaSe and the taking of photographs. The triangulation survey provided the control for the photographs. luxury living Without All topographical features $715,000 acreage responsibility. mlS# a1167132 blairmore mlS# a1128089 to be mapped had to be blairmore shown in at least two photographs” Jennifer Wheeler Crompton gave a fascinat%/2: 287 35,&( 2 developed ing presentation on the buildings, parking. Potential for an Great rental propery Great for single rV Park or to or for that someone Wheeler dynasty. Arthur’s or multiple have a couple that wants a great businesses. son, Edward Oliver (E.O.), $185,000 horses. $525,000 starter home. $849,000 mlS# a1030553 blairmore mlS# a1146565 mlS# a1193212 coleman HillcreST who in his youth worked with his father on alpine guiding and surveys, went on to become the Surveyor General of India, conducting the first survey of Mt. Everest up to 23,000 feet in elevation, continuing the This is a once in a 3.29 acres with a to own this practice of photo-topo- lifetime nice flowing creek 3.26 acerage. that runs all year graphic surveying learned mlS# a1211631 round beside the $945,000 $1,125,000 property. Very well looked $142,900 from his father. E.O. was HillcreST mlS# a1210355 HillcreST after home. HillcreST responsible for finding the mlS# a1204918 This Home is located right in blairmore on a corner lot, close to all the Rongbuk Glacier, the amenities that blairmore has to offer. doorway to lead alpinist mlS# a1232300 1( : / Edmund Hillary and Tenz, 67 This property This property , 1* would would be a great be a great ing Norgay to its peak. Sir location for location for an apartment an apartment Oliver Wheeler was later $195,000 building. $375,000 $340,000 building. mlS# a1147246 blairmore knighted by King Edward blairmore mlS# a114722 blairmore VII. Jennifer’s father, (A.O.’s grandson) Dr. John Wheeler (J.O.), who also had the experience of working with his grandfather on alpine ventures, was the Dominion Geologist who authored the Ge-
Visit stricklyrealestate.ca for photos, maps and details!
Your property could be here! call 403.563.0257
8 - CROWSNEST PASS HERALD - Wednesday, July 13, 2022
Beautifying the Crowsnest Pass The Municipality of Crowsnest Pass has invested in self watering containers throughout the community. The plants were purchased and planted locally at the Spring Break Garden Centre. The flowers are placed throughout the community and even along bridges. Council has dedicated beautification through planters in ever budget moving forward. If anyone is interested in purchasing self watering planters contact Community Services at 403562-8833 who can facilitate purchase at a reduced price. Nick Allen photo
Wednesday, July 13, 2022 - CROWSNEST PASS HERALD - 9
Nick’s Notes
John Pundyk.CoM 403
Royal LePage South Country Real Estate Services Ltd.
Movies and Shows The Crowsnest Homecoming is fast approaching. I’m not from around here, but the idea has captured my attention and made me relate to my own experiences returning to my hometown. Home never stays quite the same. The people sometimes change along with new businesses coming and going. Back home where I went to school, they just opened a brand-new Dairy Queen. It’s almost jarring to see, but it just shows how change is constantly happening. I’d only been gone for a short time, but the town kept growing and changing. New stores came and went before I even knew they existed. As I see it, an opportunity like the Crowsnest Homecoming is a great way for people to see how their old home has changed. Learn about the comings and goings, It’s a great way to reconnect and feel a part of something bigger than yourself. To be part of a community. Bringing people back to the Pass seems like a great way to broaden the community’s ties. It can show how the people who have moved away still impact those who remain and potentially bring back lost connections. I hope it is a wonderful experience for all of those involved! Whether you are attending or helping with the planning, you deserve recognition for wanting to connect the people here in the Crowsnest Pass with old colleagues and friends from out of town. This makes me want to try and reconnect with the people I have fallen out of contact with from back home. It is a wonderful idea, and I am astonished more places don’t host a similar type of event. I hope everyone in attendance has a phenomenal time celebrating with one another. Though I will not be going to the Crowsnest Homecoming, I will for sure be attending the Show and Shine. I just NEED to go and see what classic vehicles this community has to offer. I’ll be taking photos, so if you see me feel free to come over for a chat!
July Trip of the Month Winner Alan Farano of Blairmore, 7 Night Charlottetown, P.E.I. Trip for two, valued at $2,500.00 Wayne Kobberstad of Blairmore, $200.00 Allied Ace Hardware Gift Card Joe Lumley of Bellevue, $120.00 Rum Runner Gift Card
WANTED DEAD OR ALIVE
Canadian Prairie Pickers are once again touring the area!
Paying Cash For Coin Collections, Silver & Gold Coins, Royal Can. Mint Sets. Also Buying Gold Jewelry
$ $
$
We purchase rolls, bags or boxes of silver coins
$ $
$
562-8830 jpundyk@shaw.ca 6 kananSkiS wildS
HillcReSt Beautifully crafted mountain home on 5 acres at the bottom of Adanac Road. 5 beds up and 3 beds down, with 4.5 bathrooms. Lower level features a legal suite. The home is currently operated as a Bed & Breakfast and a popular Flower Farm with a well-kept greenhouse. The property is zoned C-2 which allows for many uses. $1,250,000 CALL JOHN MLS
coleman commeRcial Alberta government-built commercial building perfect for different uses. Well built on corner lot. Basement suitable for storage. Located in Historic downtown Coleman, close to many great restaurants and the Art District. $139,000 CALL JOHN MLS
Beautiful Mountain home with Fir timber finishes. Very private, many trees, south exposure, and tremendous mountain views. 5 beds and 3.5 bathrooms. Walkout basement. Concrete patio with hot tub. Developed basement with wet bar and fine cabinetry. Granite countertops upstairs and down. Over 2,500 sqft finished up and down. Attached, heated double car garage. Paved driveway. Adjacent lot also for sale. $745,000 CALL JOHN MLS
bellevue Remarkable location in Bellevue. Large lot, spacious 3-bed, 2-bath home. Sheltered deck. Parking for an RV. Single car garage. Tremendous value as starter home, or great investment in Canadian Rockies. This home has lots of room for now, and tons of room to grow. $307,000 CALL JOHN MLS
blaiRmoRe
valley Ridge
Charming 3-bedroom mountain get-a-way located close to the ski hill and trail network. Crowsnest Pass offers tremendous mountain recreation opportunities at an affordable price. Nice private back yard with back lane access. Walking distance to shopping, pool and medical facilities. $179,000 CALL JOHN MLS
4.74 acres with stunning mountain views. Custom Alpine chalet nestled within mountain meadows above Gold Creek. 2 beds, large den, 3 baths. Wood burning stove and a sheltered hot tub. Large family room. Detached garage. Lots of parking for RV. $799,000 CALL JOHN MLS
blaiRmoRe Fantastic Blairmore location near the ski hill and mountain bike trails. Very sturdy, straight older bungalow on exceptionally good basement for a home of this vintage. Nice full yard with back lane access and plenty of parking. Close to all amenities. $282,000 CALL JOHN MLS CALL JOHN MLS
coleman lot Beautiful 50 x 100 ft serviced lot. Wonpanoramic derful mountain views and back-lane access. Close to amenities and historic downtown Coleman’s excellent dining. Also near the famous York Creek Staging Area and multi-use trail network with four season adventures. $84,900 CALL JOHN MLS
HigHway commeRcial -Fantastic opportunity for commercial location along busy Highway 3. East and West bound traffic access. Currently a successful local fly-fishing shop, known to fly fishermen throughout Canada. Zoned C1 which allows for many different uses. High traffic volume in front of the property. $435,000 CALL JOHN MLS
coleman Spacious 3 bedroom, older home with newer 24'x26'x10' garage. Corner lot, plenty of parking. Fenced yard. Close to York Creek Staging Area, blue ribbon fly fishing stream, and 4 season adventure. Great first home or investment/rec property. Affordable living in the Canadian Rockies. $239,000 CALL JOHN MLS
coleman
Pineview lot Beautiful oversized Coleman lot in Pineview. Located in a quiet cul-de-sac with mature Douglas Fir trees and wonderful mountain views. Beside green space. Close to four season adventures, including hiking and blue ribbon fishing. $129,000 CALL JOHN MLS
Attractive Investment property or first home. Two bedrooms with updated kitchen and bathroom. Beautiful, original woodwork. Newer high efficiency furnace. Full basement with possibility of development. $239,000 CALL JOHN MLS
blaiRmoRe condo
coleman Spacious 3 bedroom, one level house. Solid rebuilt addition with large sitting room and master bedroom. Family room with gas fireplace. Sunny, great mountain view. Large screened front porch. Garage accessible from back lane. Excellent starter home or revenue property. $239,000 CALL JOHN MLS
blaiRmoRe condo This one bedroom apartment condo unit is only half a flight of stairs up from the entrance. Unit 202 is conveniently located within the building, on the same floor as the laundry room. Condo fees include heat, water, sewer, and garbage. Great location. Close to shopping, medical clinics, and miles of walking/hiking trails. $137,000 CALL JOHN MLS
2 bedroom, top floor condo with southern exposure and beautiful mountain views. Crowsnest Condominiums in Blairmore is clean, quiet building. Low condo fees, close to all amenities and spectacular 4 Season adventure. $147,000. CALL JOHN MLS
coleman Nice lot in Coleman with great views. Build a mountain getaway or cabin. Adjacent lot also for sale. Close to historic downtown Coleman and the Art district. Amazing area of the Crowsnest Pass, minutes from York Creek staging area, Chinook Lake, and Nordic Cross country ski trails at Allison Recreation area. 4 Season adventure is everywhere you turn. $46,000 CALL JOHN MLS
PAYING HIGHEST PRICES To arrange a free, discreet in-home visit
call Kellie at 1-778-257-9019 Bonded since 1967
Top 1% of more than 19,000 Royal LePage realtors coast to coast.
10 - CROWSNEST PASS HERALD - Wednesday, July 13, 2022
AWNA CLASSIFIEDS Auctions For Rent To inquire about the availability of an apartment for rent in Blairmore call 403-562-8144. 1 TFN/NC
For Sale NEW! Twin bed with headboard and footboard. Metal frame, 10 inch mattress. $425. Call Rosemarie 403 753 0888. 26-TFN
Services The Crowsnest Pass AA group has moved effective January 2, 2022. We now meet once a week. SUNDAY NIGHTS ONLY at 7:00 pm. Compass Fellowship Church. 2029 - 130th St., Blairmore, AB. Looking forward to seeing you. 1-CC
~ In Memoriam ~ John osadan April 22 1940 ~ July 16 2013 He never looked for praises He was never one to boast He just went on quietly working For the ones he loved the most His dreams were seldom spoken His words were very few And most of the times his worries Went unspoken too.
ONLINE TIMED AUCTION - Big Bend Market (Business Realignment). Starting July 18 @ 9AM; Begins Closing July 21 @ 9AM. Meat, Deli & Grocery Equip., Walk-in Coolers, Coolers, Freezers, Merchandise Showcases, Food, Cashier & POS Systems, Merchandising & Storage, Office Equip., & more. See www.montgomeryauctions.com; 1-800-371-6963.
Buildings For Sale INTEGRITY POST FRAME BUILDINGS since 2008 BUILT WITH CONCRETE POSTS. Barns, Shops, Riding Arenas, Machine Sheds and more, sales@integritybuilt.com 1-8669 7 4 - 7 6 7 8 www.integritybuilt.com.
Building Supplies GET YOUR MESSAGE SEEN ACROSS Alberta. The Blanket Classifieds or Value Ads reach over 600,000 Alberta readers weekly. Two options starting at $269 or $995 to get your message out! Business changes, hiring, items for sale, cancellations, tenders, etc. People are increasingly staying home and rely on their local newspapers for information. KEEP people in the loop with our 90 Weekly Community Newspapers. Call THIS NEWSPAPER now
or email classifieds@awna.com for details. 1-800-282-6903, 780-4348746 X225. www.awna.com.
Career Training BLANKET THE PROVINCE with a classified ad. Only $269 (based on 25 words or less). Reach almost 90 weekly newspapers. Call NOW for details. 1800-282-6903 Ext 225; www.awna.com.
Coming Events FIREARMS WANTED FOR AUGUST 2022 LIVE & ONLINE AUCTION: Rifles, Shotguns, Handguns, Militaria. Auction or Purchase: Collections, Estates, Individual items. Contact Paul, Switzer's Auction: Toll-Free 1800-694-2609, sales@switzersauction.com or www.switzersauction.com.
Employment Opportunities ROCKY MOUNTAIN EQUIPMENT is NOW HIRING: Managers, AG Equipment Techs, Heavy Equipment Techs - Journeyman & Apprentices, Parts Techs. View Open Roles & Apply: www.rockymtn.com/careers. Relocation Offered.
Feed and Seed ALBERTA FEED GRAIN: Buying Oats, Barley, Wheat, Canola, Peas, Screenings, Mixed Grains. Dry, Wet, Heated, or Spring Thresh.
He was there... a firm foundation Through all our storms of life A sturdy hand to hold on to In times of stress and strife.
Cookie and Mary JaCkson July 13, 2013 Those we love can never be More than a thought apart For we’ll always keep your memories Living on in our hearts Your presence we deeply miss Your memory we treasure, Loving you always Forgetting you never With loving remembrance, Your sons, Bruce (Rhonda) & David Your loving grandchildren Brayden & Raegan
2130 - 128th St. Blairmore Friday, July 15 • 3 - 6 pm Saturday. July 16 • 10 am - 3 pm Household and furniture items
Services CRIMINAL RECORD? Why suffer employment/licensing loss? Travel/business opportunities? Be embarrassed? Think: Criminal Pardon. US entry waiver. Record purge. File destruction. Free consultation. 1-800-3472540. www.accesslegalmjf.com. THE ACTIVATED QUILL - when you don’t know how to say it! Do
Wanted NUMISMATIST PURCHASING COIN COLLECTIONS & ACCUMULATIONS! Royal Canadian Mint, Canada & World Collections Wanted. Also buying 9999 bullion, old money, jewelry, nuggets, sterling, gold, silver, coins, bars, monster boxes+++ESTATES WELCOMED! Todd 250-864-3521. WANTED: Old advertising dealership signs, gas pumps, globes, pop machines, light ups. White Rose, Red Indian, Buffalo, North Star, Case Eagles, etc. Collector paying TOP PRICES. 306-221-5908.
April 26, 1991 – July 13, 2003
In Memory of
8301 - 19th Ave. - Coleman
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.
Devon Coates JaCkson
Love Sheryl, Trevor and Brandan Shelly and T.J.
9 am - until everything is sold
Land For Sale BEST HUNTING IN SASKATCHEWAN right by Sask River. Excellent fishing and very high Deer population. Thick pine & poplar bluffs, close to water coulee. Old yard site with old power and water. Revenue on crop and hayland. East of Prince Albert. $248,000. Call Doug 306-716-2671.
you have something important to say but the words won’t come? Perhaps an apology is owed or forgiveness is stuck in your throat. Have you drifted away from someone you love? Screwed things up? Are unspoken thoughts disrupting your sleep? We offer help to clarify personal communication in sensitive situations. We are professional writers offering one-on-one word smithing to help you clear the air and get your point across. Visit us online www.theactivequill.ca. Contact us by email at TheActiveQ@gmail.com or by text or phone call to 877-9668766. PRIVATE MORTGAGE LENDER. All real estate types considered. No credit checks done. Deal direct with lender and get quick approval. Toll free 1-866-405-1228; www.firstandsecondmortgages.ca.
In loving memory of
A true friend we could turn to When times were good or bad One of our greatest blessings The man we called Dad.
Saturday, July 16
Prompt Payment. In House Trucks, In House Excreta Cleaning. Vac Rental. 1-888483-8789. WE BUY DAMAGED GRAIN Heated, Mixed, Tough, Light, Bugs, Spring Thrashed....Barley, Wheat, Oats, Peas, Flax, Canola. "On Farm Pickup". Westcan Feed & Grain 1-877250-5252.
Another year has gone by, There going by so fast, Still, it seems like an eternity… Since we’ve seen and held you last. 19 years ago today Devon, Is the day that we lost you And for a time for us, it felt as though Our lives had ended too Although life beckons us to forge and carry on There never goes a day That we don’t long to hear your voice, To have you come through that door smiling and say “Hey” We never try to stop the moments We just let them flow through It's just our way of getting to spend some time Once again with you Your Poppa has come to join you How very happy you two must be Finally embracing one another, After how very long it has been We’re jealous, yet so happy, As you are apart no more We know you were the first to greet him When he came to heaven’s door We know you’re watching over Your brother, sister and your nephew too, They really miss your presence And will forever cherish the memories they have of you So today is like no other, Your memory kept close as always in our hearts Embracing your beautiful spirit as we are never really…ever far apart So deeply missed and forever loved, Your loving family, Mom, Dad, Raegan and Brayden Grandma, Uncles, Aunts and Cousins
Wednesday, July 13, 2022 - CROWSNEST PASS HERALD -11
Journeyman Certified Carpenter Licensed and Insured
Journeyman Certified Carpenter Licensed and Insured High Energy Maintenance Free PVC Windows & Doors
Bus: 403-634-3858 email:pkkingsly@gmail.com
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
lannie@westerraearthworks.com
Wild Dog Contracting Services Etc.
• Hauling • Moving • Skid-steer work As well as in shop services like welding, framing, and other odd jobs.
(403) 582-0179
Our equipment includes a 14 foot dump trailer, a 18 foot flat deck, a 14 foot cargo trailer, a S510 bobcat.
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
PRESTIGE CLEANERS RENT A CARPET CLEANER Clothing Alterations, Zippers, Coverall Rentals, Etc.
562-2112 Blairmore • 425-7272 Sparwood
12 - CROWSNEST PASS HERALD - Wednesday, July 13, 2022
Looking Back By John Kinnear
So Sayeth Charles Earle Funk
The English language, with all its complexities and double meanings contains many words that were born, or grew, or acquired their meanings in an unusual manner. Most word sources can be traced back to Old English or French, Latin or Greek by using dictionaries but they tell us very little about how they came to be.
The job of defining word origins falls to lexicographers who are generally a dry, methodical lot, prepared to go to no ends to get a word's story right. One of America's most renowned lexicographers was Charles Earle Funk of Funk and Wagnall fame. Mr. Funk's dissections of some of our more interesting words makes for good reading and it is some of his stories from his 1950 book "Thereby Hangs a Tale" that I'd like to share with you. I'll start off with one of his simpler dissections just to wet your appetite. Alligator: “English writers of the 16th century correctly called this creature a "lagarto". That is the Spanish name for this huge saurian -"lizard" but because Spaniards, like Arabs, are accustomed to putting the definite article al before a noun--al lagarto, the lizard-- careless English writers assumed that this was a single word - allagarto. This became further corrupted in the 17th century to allegator and the present spelling became established in the early 18th century." There, that wasn't too bad was it? Now here's one that will leave some heavy equipment operators at the coal mines shaking their heads. Bulldozer: "Following the American Civil War between the States and the abolition of slavery there was a natural tendency for the newly enfranchised Negroes of the South to vote for the political party represented by their emancipator, Abe Lincoln. (no kidding!) Southern whites objected. Violence and threats of violence sprang up towards the eve of all elections, continuing for many years. In Louisiana especially, the terrible bull whack, bull walloper, or bullwhip, as it was variously called, was employed to intimidate the Negro voters. This was a long, heavy, leather lash, fixed to a short wooden handle, and used chiefly by Texan drovers to keep strings of cattle from straying off the road. It is a matter of dispute whether the whites were the first to threaten refractory Negroes with a "dose of the bull", or whether Republican Negroes, spurred on by northern carpetbaggers, used the threat against such of their own brethren as were suspected of an intent to vote Democratic. In either case, the victim was first warned then flogged, "given the bulldose," as it was called. The term was spelled both bulldose and bulldoze. From it was developed bulldozer, a bully, one who wields the bulldose, who intimidated through superior power or strength. Thus, because of its great power, the mechanical bulldozer of today inherited the name. Of course we here in the Crowsnest Pass have another name for the bulldozer and that is caterpillar, another word with an interesting history. Caterpillar: "Pilare is the Latin for "to grow hair" and gives an adjective pilosus, meaning "hairy". From this and their own word chat, a cat, the French formed chatepelose, "hairy cat", which may be compared to "wooly bear, the common name by which English children refer to the same fuzzy creature, the caterpillar. The French word, chatepelose, was in due course taken into English; but the significance of the latter part of the word was not recognized. It was actually confused with the stem of the old English word "to pill," meaning "to strip or plunder," the idea being that the caterpillar strips leaves off trees. This is the reason why the spelling of the word has departed from the French form." As we know the caterpillars at the coal mines in the Elk Valley are more likely to take the top off of a mountain never, mind strip the leaves off a tree! We make much ado about winning trophy’s these days and as the Avalanche hoisted the sacred Stanley Cup the other day I wondered about the word “trophy”. Charles Earle Funk provided some interesting clarification. Trophy: "After a victorious battle it was a custom of the Greeks of early days to take from the field the weapons of the enemy and hang them up on the stump of a tree in such a manner as to imitate an armed man, the helmet on top, breastplate about the stump, and shield, sword, and spear attached to branches left for the purpose. Such a monument was called a tropaion, literally, "a turning point", for it signified the turning point of a battle, the place where the enemy had been put to flight. If the enemy permitted the monument to be erected it was a confession of defeat. The Greek term became tropaeum amongst the Romans, who followed a similar custom, but it was later altered to trophaeum, from which our term trophy is derived. In reference to things monetary, Mr. Funk relates a fascinating story about the word "dollar". Dollar: Silver was discovered in the valley of the Joachim, a few miles west of Prague, in 1516. This valley was then part of the vast estate owned by the Count of Schlick and, as was then the custom, the Count decided to mint his own coins. The first of the coins were produced in 1518 and was intended to have the value of the gold florin, then in circulation. Because the valley, and the town within it, had been named in honour of St. Joachim, the new coin bore a picture of the saint upon its face. For that reason the coin could be readily identified and, from the name of the valley where it was produced, was known as Joachimsthaler, literally, "of the valley of Joachim," from thal, meaning valley. The name was contracted to thaler, and this in turn became daler in some of the German dialects and in the speech of the Low Countries. Thus the name came to England as dollar. Forgetful or ignorant of the source of the term- that it meant "of the valley" and thinking of it only as the name of a coin, the English used it to designate the Spanish pers duro, better known to us as a "piece of eight" because of the large figure 8 on its face. This silver coin was widely circulated in colonial America, and thus the name dollar, already familiar, was applied to the unit of value in the United States when the first currency was minted in 1787." My favourite colour is purple and one of my favourite childhood memories is dying eggs purple using boiled vinegar and a "Paas" egg-dying kit. Early church memories bring back the image of our local priest bedecked in a brilliant purple and gold garment at Easter, the statues in the church shrouded in purple cloth and it seemed to me this colour was relegated to special people and special occasions. Turns out I was right. Purple: Hundreds of years before the Christian era the Phoenicians who dwelt along the coast of the Mediterranean Sea near Tyre discovered a curious shell fish attached to the adjacent rocks. This shellfish or mussel was found to yield a minute quantity of fluid which imparted a dark crimson color to cloth. It is said that the stain was first observed about the mouth of a dog which had crushed and eaten one of the mussels. The Greeks called this shellfish porphyros, because the color it yielded resembled the red volcanic rock that we call porphyry, then quarried in Egypt. The name was altered to purpura, in Latin, further corrupted in English to purple. The dye that was thus discovered became greatly desired because of its scarcity. The mussels were found only along the shores in nearby Tyre, and there was but a tiny amount in each mussel. None but emperors or men of great wealth could afford "Tyrian purple", as it was called. The dye, used only in the finest cloths, became the distinguishing mark of the dress of emperors and kings. Thus, the expression, "born to the purple", still denotes a person or royal birth.
Middle photo: traditional Paas egg dyeing kit All pics from wikipedia