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Crowsnest Pass

Herald

Vol. 95 No. 2

January 15, 2025 $1.25

Serving our communities since 1930

Protest photo by Frank McTighe Around 90 demonstrators gather in Fort Macleod earlier this week to protest the potential opening of the Grassy Mountain coal mine.

Alberta revises Coal Policy amid tious.The updated policy builds on the 2021 Coal Policy Committee’s recommendations and the 1976 Coal Development Policy. It prohibits mountaintop removal Grassy Mountain Opposition mining, a practice not previously used in Alberta, and prevents the approval of new NICHOLAS L. M. ALLEN Pass Herald Reporter

Government introduces stricter environmental measures as protests continue The Alberta government has announced updates to its coal policy, introducing new measures aimed at modernizing coal development practices while addressing environmental concerns. The Alberta Coal Industry Modernization Initiative (CIMI) establishes stricter guidelines for coal mining and includes provisions to protect natural ecosystems and water resources. Meanwhile, discussions surrounding the Grassy Mountain coal project in the Crowsnest Pass area remain conten-

open-pit coal mines in the Eastern Slopes. Future coal projects will be required to use advanced mining technologies designed to minimize land disruption and prevent contaminants, such as selenium, from affecting waterways.

Energy and Minerals Minister Brian Jean stated that the government is working toward a balanced approach to coal development.

“We are not handing over the keys for unlimited coal development in Alberta’s natural spaces,” Jean said, “Instead, we’re working with industry to ensure that environmental safeguards are prioritized.”

Consultations with industry stakeholders are scheduled to begin in early 2025, with a finalized policy framework anticipated by year’s end.

Public concerns about coal mining have been evident in recent protests. On January 6, a “No to Coal” rally was held in Fort Macleod, where participants carried signs stating, “Mountains Not Mines” and “Protect the Eastern Slopes.” The protest reflected opposition to coal development in Alberta’s foothills.

Cont’d on page 7

2 - CROWSNEST PASS HERALD - Wednesday, January 15, 2025

Pass Herald’s “Shop Local” Christmas contest wraps up with $57,000 boost to local economy

The Pass Herald’s “Shop Local” Christmas contest came to a festive conclusion on Monday, December 18, with five lucky winners walking away with an array of prizes, including gift baskets, gift cards, wine, glasses, and wreaths adorned with gift certificates. These generous prizes were all donated by the participating local businesses.

Thanks to the community’s enthusiastic participation, the campaign proved to be a major success, injecting an impressive $57,000 into the local economy! Each completed stamp pass, which required $300 in purchases, helped contribute to this total. It’s clear that when Crowsnest Pass shops local, everyone benefits.

The 2025 winners of the contest were: Rhonda Bond, Ryan Demoustiez, Tammy Wall, Irene Bradbury, and Heather Warlow.

A big thank you goes out to the local businesses that made this event possible: Allied True Value, Blairmore Rx Drug Mart (IDA), Chris’ Restaurant, Copy Magic, Crocket’s Trading Company, Crowsnest Pass Herald, Crowsnest Pass Public Art Gallery, DFO (Diesel Fuel Only), Greg’s Liquor Store, Magnolia Floral Studio, Merch on Main, Pass Automotive (Napa), Pharmasave, Rebel BBQ, Summit Home Hardware, The Pantry, Tuesday’s Bookshop, and Work n’ Play.

These community-minded businesses are the true winners, having benefited directly from the Crowsnest Pass’s dedication to supporting local. Well done, everyone!

EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY @ Please follow the link for more detailed information!

AI for Business:

Join the Workshop!

Herald Contributor

Calling all Crowsnest Pass entrepreneurs, innovators, and business owners!

Are you curious about how Ai can streamline your operations, boost efficiency, or help you stay ahead of the curve?

Join RINSA and Community Futures Crowsnest Pass for an interactive session exploring the fundamentals of artificial intelligence for business! Charlee Sereda is the Program Manager for the Regional Innovation Network of Southern Alberta, and has spent years studying and working with artificial intelligence tools for businesses, alongside coaching entrepreneurs on how to utilize these tools and how to evaluate artificial intelligence products on the market for their unique needs. Charlee is a leader in incorporating and streamlining Ai solutions, with expertise in building out robust data systems and automations, integrating Ai into routine workflows, and generating content for marketing and communications through artificial intelligence.

By attending Intro to Ai for Business, you can expect to gain: A basic understanding of how artificial intelligence works A basic knowledge of several Ai tools and their unique use-cases.

An understanding of generative vs. closed repository artificial intelligence Increased confidence in using artificial intelligence for business.

This workshop is in-person only, so please bring your own laptops and devices, as there will be hands-on exploration of the tools covered.

Please see attached for more information.

We will be providing lunch, please email bfehr@albertacf.com with any dietary restrictions.

REGISTER BY JANUARY 20th TO BFEHR@ALBERTACF.

Wednesday, January 15, 2025 - CROWSNEST PASS HERALD - 3 Frank Slide Template.qxp_Layout 1 2023-01-30 11:44 AM Page 1

Mental Health Concern Over Imaginary Intruders

Police Briefs

On January 8 at 11:00 p.m., police responded to a report of people in an alley behind a residence. The complainant claimed to have chased them away with a baseball bat and issued threats if they returned. Patrols found no individuals, and inquiries were negative. The complainant repeatedly hung up on police when updates were provided.

Traffic Stop Leads to Warrant Arrest

Between January 6 and 13, the Crowsnest Pass Police Department responded to 32 calls On January 9 at 3:00 p.m., a routine traffic for service, of which two were unfounded. A total of 10 charges were made during this pe- stop resulted in the arrest of an individual with an outstanding Form 21 warrant. riod.

DID YOU KNOW

The only thing that can destroy a diamond is intense heat.

HWY #3, Frank • 562-8043

Allegation of Stolen Keys and The calls included one traffic collision, Teeth Reported eight speeding violations, two other moving traffic violations, three other non-moving On January 10 at 3:10 p.m., a complainant traffic violations, one Fire Prevention Act, two Mental Health Acts, three written traffic reported that neighbors had entered their home offence warnings, one victim services offered and stolen their keys and teeth. The matter re(declined), one harassing communications, mains under investigation. one assault with weapon or causing bodily Domestic Violence with harm, one assault, three thefts under $5000, Firearm Reported one mischief, two animal calls and two items lost/found.

On January 12 at 6:23 p.m., RCMP were alerted by the Calgary Distress Centre about Five Vehicles Damaged by a domestic violence situation involving a fireMetal on Highway arm.

The suspect allegedly threatened to kill the On January 7 at 7:54 p.m., RCMP received multiple calls about five vehicles on Highway victim. Police provided the complainant with 22 with flat tires caused by a piece of metal resources and information about leaving viosuspected to have fallen from a semi-truck. lent relationships.

By the time police conducted patrols, no metKidnapping Report Leads al debris was found. Incidents like this have to Domestic Assault occurred in the past due to sharp metal debris Investigation such as angle iron from mud flaps.

Teenagers Allegedly Stealing in Backyard Unfounded At 3:54 a.m. and 4:00 a.m. on January 8, a complainant reported teenagers stealing items from their backyard. The complainant claimed to have chased them away multiple times and later alleged the teens were digging holes across the street. Police patrols found no evidence of suspicious activity. Possible mental health or substance abuse issues are suspected.

Harassing Phone Calls About Pizza Reported On January 8 at 1:46 p.m., a complainant reported receiving harassing phone calls, including statements about pizza being ready and derogatory remarks. Police advised the complainant on blocking unknown and spam numbers.

On January 12 at 7:21 p.m., a report of a kidnapping in progress brought a coordinated response from RCMP detachments in Pincher Creek and Crowsnest Pass.

Upon arrival, police determined no kidnapping had occurred. Instead, it was revealed to be a domestic assault incident involving an individual with an outstanding warrant for domestic violence.

The investigation is ongoing.

Garage Fire and Confrontational Homeowner On January 13 at 4:57 p.m., RCMP assisted Crowsnest Pass Fire Rescue with a garage fire under investigation.

Later that evening, at 8:40 p.m., police returned to the scene after the homeowner became confrontational as firefighters managed a hot spot. Police ensured peace was maintained during the response.

You can pick up the Pass Herald at: Bellevue - Crockets Trading Company Blairmore - Pharmasave, IDA, IGA, The Pantry and Circle K Coleman - Remedy’s RX and Happy Mart NOTICE:

If you have a digital subscription and your paper stops coming into your e-mail, your subscription is due.

Renew at passherald.ca

4 - CROWSNEST PASS HERALD - Wednesday, January 15, 2025

NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING

NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING

NOTICE OF DEVELOPMENT PERMIT

MUNICIPALITY OF CROWSNEST PASS IN THE PROVINCE OF ALBERTA PROPOSED BYLAW NO. 1210, 2024

MUNICIPALITY OF CROWSNEST PASS IN THE PROVINCE OF ALBERTA PROPOSED BYLAW NO. 1211, 2024

The Development Authority of the Municipality of Crowsnest Pass recently approved the following PERMITTED Development Application(s):

7:00pm, February 4, 2025 Municipality of Crowsnest Pass Council Chambers 8502 – 19 Avenue, Coleman

7:00pm, February 4, 2025 Municipality of Crowsnest Pass Council Chambers 8502 – 19 Avenue, Coleman

• DP2024-353 – 7 Kananaskis Drive, Coleman (Lot(s) N/A Block N/A Plan 0714098) For a “Single-Detached Dwelling” – (permitted use)

PURSUANT to sections 216.4, 606, and 692 of the Municipal Government Act, Revised Statutes of Alberta 2000, Chapter M-26, the Council of the Municipality of Crowsnest Pass in the Province of Alberta hereby gives notice of its intention to consider proposed Bylaw No. 1210, 2024, being a bylaw to amend Bylaw No. 1165, 2023, being the municipal land use bylaw.

PURSUANT to sections 216.4, 606, and 692 of the Municipal Government Act, Revised Statutes of Alberta 2000, Chapter M-26, the Council of the Municipality of Crowsnest Pass in the Province of Alberta hereby gives notice of its intention to consider proposed Bylaw No. 1211, 2024, being a bylaw to amend Bylaw No. 1165, 2023, being the municipal land use bylaw.

The purpose of Bylaw No. 1210, 2024 is to redesignate the lands legally described as a portion of Lot 11, Block 7, Plan 820L, containing ±0.04 ha (0.11 acres), as shown on Schedule ‘A’, from “Retail Commercial – C-1” to “Drive-In Commercial – C-2”. The subject lands are known municipally as 1610 77 Street and are located in Coleman.

The purpose of Bylaw No. 1211, 2024 is to redesignate the lands legally described as Lot 5, Plan 961 1980 within the SW¼ 16-8-4-W5M, containing ±6.365 ha (15.7 acres), as shown on Schedule ‘A’, from “Grouped Country Residential – GCR-1” to “Non-Urban Tourism Accommodation and Recreation – NUTAR”. The subject lands are located in Coleman.

The purpose of Bylaw No. 1210, 2024 is to redesignate the lands legally described as a portion of Lot 11, Block 7, Plan 820L, containing ±0.04 ha (0.11 acres), as shown on Schedule ‘A’, from “Retail Commercial – C-1” to “Drive-In Commercial – C-2”.

The subject lands are known municipally as 1610 77 Street and are located in Coleman.

The purpose of the proposed amendment is to provide for the opportunity to use and develop the lands in accordance with the provisions of the “Drive-In Commercial – C-2” land use district.

THEREFORE, TAKE NOTICE THAT a public hearing to consider the proposed Bylaw No. 1210, 2024 will be held in the Municipality of Crowsnest Pass Council Chambers at 7:00pm on February 4 , 2025. Each person shall be allotted 5 minutes to present their position.

AND FURTHER TAKE NOTICE that anyone wishing to provide slide decks, maps, videos or a written submission regarding the proposed bylaw should email: Bonnie Kawasaki, Executive Assistant to the CAO at bonnie.kawasaki@crowsnestpass.com with the bylaw number and public hearing date clearly marked in the subject line no later than 12:00pm on January 23 , 2025. Verbal presentations (limited to 5 minutes) will be accepted at the public hearing.

For questions regarding the proposed Bylaw Amendment please contact the Development Officer by calling 403562-8833 or emailing development@crowsnestpass.com

The purpose of the proposed amendment is to provide for the opportunity to use and develop the lands in accordance with the provisions of the “Non-Urban Tourism Accommodation and Recreation – NUTAR” land use district.

THEREFORE,

TAKE

NOTICE THAT a public hearing to consider the proposed Bylaw No. 1211, 2024, will be held in the Municipality of Crowsnest Pass Council Chambers at 7:00PM on February 4th , 2025. Each person shall be allotted 5 minutes to present their position.

AND FURTHER TAKE NOTICE that anyone wishing to provide slide decks, maps, videos or a written submission regarding the proposed bylaw should email: Bonnie Kawasaki, Executive Assistant to the CAO at Bonnie.Kawasaki@crowsnestpass.com with the bylaw number and public hearing date clearly marked in the subject line no later than 12:00pm on January 27th , 2025. Verbal presentations (limited to 5 minutes) will be accepted at the public hearing.

• DP2024-354 – 11334 20 Avenue, Blairmore (Lot(s) 11 18 Block 6 Plan 2347BS) For a “Fascia / Wall Sign” – (permitted Use) • DP2024-355 – 13550 18 Avenue, Blairmore (Lot(s) 8 & 9 Block 3 Plan 6050L) For an “Accessory Building or use up to 72.8m2” (Shed 33.44m2) (permitted use) The Development Authority of the Municipality of Crowsnest Pass recently approved the following DISCRETIONARY or Development Application(s) with Variances: • DP2024-351 – 14861 21 Avenue, Frank (Lot(s) 8 - 10 Block 29 Plan 3661I) For a “Home Occupation - Class 2” (Esthetic Studio) (discretionary use) Any persons claiming to be adversely affected by the above Discretionary Development Permits or Variances may file an appeal by January 30, 2025, to SUBDIVISION AND DEVELOPMENT APPEAL BOARD (SDAB) through our Municipal online form or to the or the Land and PROPERTY RIGHTS TRIBUNAL, as may be applicable.

Subdivision and Development Appeal Board: Online Form Submission: https://portal.laserfiche.ca/ o8468/forms/Development_Appeal Fee of $400.00 must be paid with the appeal (will be contacted for payment once the form is sent).

Land and Property Rights Tribunal: 1229-91 Street SW Edmonton AB T6X 1E9 Development Officer Municipality of Crowsnest Pass Phone: 403 562-8833 Email: development@crowsnestpass.com

For questions regarding the proposed Bylaw Amendment please contact the Development Officer by calling 403562-8833 or emailing development@crowsnestpass. com.

A copy of the proposed bylaw may be inspected at the municipal office during normal business hours.

DATED at the Municipality of Crowsnest Pass in the Province of Alberta this 18th day of December 2024.

A copy of the proposed bylaw may be inspected at the municipal office during normal business hours.

BOARD VACANCIES

DATED at the Municipality of Crowsnest Pass in the Province of Alberta this 11th day of December 2024.

The Municipality of Crowsnest Pass is looking for applicants to serve on the following Boards & Committees for Terms commencing January 2025.

2025 COMMUNITY HANDBOOK

Crowsnest Pass Seniors Housing Board Parks and Recreation Advisory Committee

SPRING & SUMMER EDITION We are now accepting applications for the 2025 Spring & Summer Community Handbook!

To feature your facility events (e.g., community or fundraising events) or organization contact information in this year’s handbook, please complete and submit the Community Handbook Application Form available on our website here: https://portal.laserfiche.ca/o8468/forms/ CNP_Community_Handbook

The Board & Committee Application Form and the applicable Bylaw or Terms of Reference for each Board & Committee are available at the Municipal Office, or online at www.crowsnestpass.com.

Applications may be returned to the attention of Bonnie Kawasaki by: Mail - Municipality of Crowsnest Pass, PO Box 600, Crowsnest Pass, AB T0K 0E0 Email - bonnie.kawasaki@crowsnestpass.com In Person - 8502 – 19 Ave., Coleman, AB Deadline for submission: February 7, 2025.

The Municipality does not retain applications. If you are Don’t miss this opportunity to showcase your events and interested in volunteering, please resubmit your applicaconnect with the community! tion.

8502 - 19 Avenue, Coleman Box 600, Crowsnest Pass, AB, T0K 0E0 ph: 403-562-8833 e: reception@crowsnestpass.com www.crowsnestpass.com After Hours Public Works Emergencies: 403-562-2021

Wednesday, January 15, 2025 - CROWSNEST PASS HERALD - 5

All-Star Showcase Recap: Crowsnest Crush Represented on Home Ice

Marlo DeRosa (#33, Goaltender – Team White) DeRosa has played in 12 games this season with 5 wins and a .920 save percentage, allowing 18 goals on 225 shots. His consistent goaltending has been crucial for the Crush and was evident during the showcase.

Pass Herald Reporter

Jack Grier (#77, Team White) Grier, another forward for the Crush, has 11 goals and 12 assists for 23 points in 21 games. He brings a physical edge to his game, accumulating 153 penalty minutes this season.

Event highlights talent across the National Junior Hockey League

Race Jenkins (#60, Assistant Captain – Team Blue) Jenkins, representing the Crush on Team Blue, has 17 goals and 24 assists for 41 points in 23 games. His versatility is reflected in his 3 power-play goals, 3 short-handed goals, and 4 game-winning goals.

NICHOLAS L.M. ALLEN

The 2024/2025 National Junior Hockey League All-Star Showcase took place on January 11 at the Crowsnest Pass Sports Complex. The event brought together top players from across the league, with Team White and Team Blue competing in front of an enthusiastic local crowd. Several members of the Crowsnest Crush were selected to participate, showcasing their contributions to one of the league’s strongest teams this season. Team White won the All-Star game with a score of 7-6 after multiple overtime periods with the Crush’s Jack Grier scoring to win the game Crush Player Highlights Raiden Peter (#68, Assistant Captain – Team White) Peter, a forward, entered the showcase as one of the league’s leading scorers with 42 goals and 34 assists for 76 points in 23 games. He has been effective on special teams with 6 power-play goals and 3 short-handed goals, including 5 game-winning goals this season.

Hayden Wilson (#22, Captain – Team White) Wilson, a defenseman, has contributed 3 goals and 8 assists in 21 games this season. Known for his physical style, he has 39 penalty minutes and provides steady leadership as the Crush captain.

The 2024/2025 NJHL All-Star Showcase brought energy and excitement to the Crowsnest Pass Sports Complex on January 11, as top players from across the league competed in a highly anticipated match-up between Team White and Team Blue. Fans packed the stands to cheer on their favourite players, including seven representatives from the Crowsnest Crush, who showcased their skills and sportsmanship throughout the game. From intense action on the ice to smiles in the stands, the event highlighted the passion for junior hockey in the region.

Photos By Nicholas L. M. Allen

Dalane Rabbit (#71, Team Blue) Rabbit has been a top performer this season with 36 goals and 41 assists, totaling 77 points in 24 games. His offensive contributions include 8 power-play goals and 2 short-handed goals.

Carter Baron (#6, Team Blue) Baron, a defenseman, has played 23 games with 5 goals and 15 assists, totaling 20 points. He has 3 power-play goals and is known for his two-way play.

Crowsnest Crush Season Performance The Crush currently hold a 23-4-0 record in 27 games, with a .852 win percentage. They have scored 201 goals while allowing 78, giving them a +123 goal differential. The team is on a two-game winning streak and ranks among the league’s top contenders this season.

Post-Game Celebration Following the showcase, fans enjoyed live music by the Lani Folkard Band in the curling lounge, creating a festive atmosphere to close out the event.

The All-Star Showcase provided an opportunity for players to demonstrate their skills in a competitive yet celebratory environment, while also highlighting the strength and contributions of the Crowsnest Crush to the league.

6 - CROWSNEST PASS HERALD - Wednesday, January 15, 2025

Herald Editorial LISA SYGUTEK The holidays have come to an end, and I’ll be honest I’m feeling a bit down. It was a much needed break, but I’ve come to realize that two weeks just isn’t enough. In fact, I think I’d really benefit from two months off! As we approach the 95th anniversary of the Pass Herald, this is the second issue of the year. Yesterday, it dawned on me that I’ve been with the Pass Herald for 25 years now. This year, I’m eligible for the Silver Quill award, presented by News Media Canada to those with 25 or more years of active involvement in the news industry, regardless of their role. My mom has one for her 47 years in the business, and Buddy has a Gold Quill for 67 years of service.

Looking back, this career wasn’t what I had in mind when I graduated after six years of university.

I thought I’d dive into the corporate world, land a big job in human resources, and make a name for myself.

But, as life often does, things didn’t go according to plan. After I graduated in 1996, I worked in the HR department at the University of Lethbridge, a job I really enjoyed. Then I met an engineer from Saskatchewan, got married, and followed him to our valley where he worked in the mines. I gave up my dream job to support him, and yes, I was that person! Within a year, I was expecting Keiran. When he was about eight months old, an employee at the Pass Herald had to be let go while my parents were on vacation, so I stepped in to fill the gap. I’d bring Keiran to the office and do the best I could while juggling motherhood.

Twenty-five years later, I’m still here, and I find it kind of funny that Keiran grew up under my desk, just like I did under my mom’s. I still have vivid memories of sitting under my mom’s desk, pretending to answer the phone. Saying, “Pass Herald, Lisa speaking,” has been part of my life for as long as I can remember, both for real and in my imagination.

When I was younger, I even helped deliver the Pass Herald, sitting in the back of my dad’s truck. Of course, you’d never see that today! All three of my boys have delivered papers and stuffed flyers! I have a deep love for the feel and smell of the newspaper.

The ink on my fingers, the texture of the paper. There’s something about it that brings back so many memories of the days when we were all here together at the Pass Herald. Time, however, doesn’t wait for anyone. Like all weekly newspapers, we’ve been affected by the rise of digital media. But instead of just lamenting the decline, I’ve decided to act. We should have some results from our Class Action Lawsuit against the forces that have harmed our industry. As you know, I’m more of a doer than a complainer.

As we head into our 95th year of publishing your locally owned newspaper, we continue to serve you through both print and digital platforms. Our mission is to deliver “real” news, the kind that doesn’t just get lost in the noise of social media and the internet. So, thank you for your continued support. While many long-standing newspapers in Alberta are shutting their doors, we’re still here, week after week, keeping you informed on what’s happening in the Crowsnest Pass.

The largest cost for a newspaper is the cost to print it. In the past, I have often wished we had an electronic-edition only. I’ve dreamed of the money we could save. However, after the Canada Post strike, I quickly realized that isn’t attainable, or even something I want.

The seniors struggled to read the paper online, and I got the sense that no one liked it, including me. The strike may have saved me some printing and mailing costs, but I think deep down it did diminish the product. It didn’t feel like I was producing a real paper.

Since the end of the strike, I eagerly await the arrival of the freshly printed paper from Lethbridge. On those special days when the paper is still a little damp from the printing press, I can’t help but smile. There’s something magical about the ink transferring onto my fingers. It’s one of those simple pleasures that always makes my day, and now I appreciate it even more.

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 libellous opinions. Should a litigation result from your letter, you as the writer are responsible but so is this newspaper as the publisher.

Being a good citizen.

Get involved PETER JOWETT Fort Macleod I remember recent calm, warm feelings over Christmas as I attended several community events. It helped me feel, at least in our local world, that everything is OK. Our community is pretty healthy, pulling in the same direction, these are folks you could count on. I’m amongst Good Citizens.

Then came 2025. I don’t know about you, but New Year wishes caused me to push back a flood of negative thoughts about regional, provincial and world events. There is so much bad stuff going on that will drastically alter our current and future quality of life.

Bummer. But what can I do? The issues are too overwhelming; too depressing! I’m too busy! Other folks will take care of this stuff. Hey, I felt this way; tried to ignore things. Then the Northback Grassy Mountain coal project, previously rejected in 2021, received a fresh push from Brian Jean, Minister of Energy & Minerals as he “suggested” (told) the Alberta Energy Regulator (AER) to “consider” the project. The AER is supposed to be an unbiased/arms-length entity.

But they get their paychecks from the AB government (wink-wink). So here we are with AER currently holding public hearings even after their Bosses announced their plans for future coal development and gave their

blessing for mining Grassy Mountain. They did this on Dec 20th , hoping we wouldn’t notice while we were busy wrapping gifts and knowing full-well the damage it will cause. Sneaky, under-handed, undemocratic! Will the AER decision be unbiased despite their employer’s pressure?

And so here I am, pulling in the same direction as a lot of good Alberta citizens as we fight against a local coal project proven not to make economic or environmental sense. And I feel good; well, better!

Gone are feelings of helpless apathy, isolation, vulnerability. I’ve earned the right to put other issues on the shelf without guilt and concentrate on an issue that’s winnable. I’m working amongst a group of like-minded good citizens and retaining those hopeful feelings from Christmas. I’m trying to be a good citizen, fighting for my, your and Alberta’s future.

So, here’s a winning suggestion to help you feel better and protect the future of your family, community and province; Get Involved! Sure, family and work commitments can leave you with little spare time, but it doesn’t have to be much. Monitor what’s going on and how you can help via Facebook groups like Crowsnest Headwaters and Protect Alberta’s Rockies and Headwaters. Email a short letter opposing Grassy Mountain coal mining to your riding MLA (Chelsae Petrovic, Livingstone.Macleod@assembly.ab.ca or Rob Miyashiro, Lethbridge.West@assembly.ab.ca or Nathan Neudorf, Lethbridge.East@assembly.ab.ca.) and Brian Jean, Minister of Energy and Minerals, FortMcMurray.LacLaBiche@assembly.ab.ca. There you go, Easy Peezy…5 minutes.

Thanks for your help and I hope this helps you feel better about 2025.

More letters cont’d on page 8

Bricks and Bouquets This is your column, THE READERS, use it but please don’t abuse it. All Bricks & Bouquets are expressions from OUR READERS and do not necessarily reflect the policies or opinions of THIS newspaper. If you wish to expressly thank someone, please use our CARD OF THANKS section of this newspaper. We appreciate you making this column a success, and keep sending us your Bricks and Bouquets. All Bricks and Bouquets are kept on file at the Pass Herald.

BOUQUET To all the volunteers who have worked to create an outdoor ice rink in Bellevue. It’s so awesome to go out with my children to such a wonderful, community driven, area. Well done!

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Wednesday, January 15, 2025 - CROWSNEST PASS HERALD - 7

Nick’s Notes NJHL All-Star Showcase

Saturday night at the Crowsnest Pass Sports Complex was one for the books. The 2024/2025 NJHL All-Star Showcase brought together the best young hockey players in the league, and the event didn’t disappoint.

I had the pleasure of attending to take photos, watch the highly anticipated skills competition, and, of course, enjoy a fantastic meal from Cadillac Kitchen.

Walking into the rink, the atmosphere was electric.

Fans packed the stands, proudly wearing jerseys of their favourite teams and players, and the energy was contagious.

Camera in hand, I wandered the arena, capturing moments that showed both the intensity of the competition and the excitement of the crowd.

The skills competition was a highlight of the evening.

Watching players showcase their speed, accuracy, and finesse in events like hardest shot and fastest skater was impressive.

Seeing local Crowsnest Crush players go head-tohead with other league standouts made it even more special for hometown fans.

During the competition, I stopped by Cadillac Kitchen for dinner, and it was an experience in itself. Their menu offered a variety of comfort food classics, but the best part for me was the burger and Tibb’s Fries.

It was perfectly cooked, packed with flavour, and the ideal way to recharge before heading back to capture more moments from the showcase.

The NJHL All-Star Showcase wasn’t just a night of hockey; it was a reminder of how events like these bring communities together.

From thrilling on-ice action to delicious food and lively conversations, it was a night that highlighted everything we love about junior hockey in the Pass.

I look forward to seeing what the Crowsnest Crush can do in the second half of their season!

Coal policy cont’d from page 1 In Brocket, members of the Piikani Nation also protested against explorational drilling proposed by Northback Holdings at the Grassy Mountain site, which is located less than 100 kilometres upstream from their community. Some community members voiced frustration with leadership following Chief Troy Knowlton’s announcement of the council’s support for the testing proposal. Concerns were raised about the potential environmental impact of the project.

Chief Knowlton addressed these concerns in a statement, explaining that the council’s support is limited to testing and does not indicate approval of the mine itself.

“We neither support nor oppose the mine at this stage. We need to see and consider the results of testing before an informed decision can be made,” Knowlton stated.

He also acknowledged differing opinions within the community and committed to holding a vote once the testing data is available.

As Alberta implements its updated coal policy, discussions surrounding projects like Grassy Mountain highlight the ongoing debate about the balance between resource development and environmental protection. The government’s next steps include refining its policy framework to address these competing interests.

JOHNPUNDYK.COM

403-563-0771 Royal LePage South Country Real Estate Services Ltd.

NORTH COLEMAN

COLEMAN ACREAGE Beautiful 3.34 acreage with fantastic mountain views and mature evergreen forest. This acreage has a great building site with municipal water. There is also no timeline to build. Close proximity to hundreds of miles of Crowsnest Pass mountain ski areas only 45 minutes away. backcountry multi use $309,900 trails. Fernie and Castle CALL JOHN MLS

BLAIRMORE CONDO

Beautiful, bright 3-bedroom, 1.5-bathroom home with tremendous mountain views in all directions. The bathrooms have been updated. This is a great character home that takes full advantage of the surrounding mountains and year-round sun exposure.

Close to skiing, hiking, fishing, and other backcountry part of an active and welcoming small mountain adventures. This mountain community. $444,000 is a great opportunity to be CALL JOHN MLS

laundry and a great modern kitchen with a dishwasher. Newer flooring and paint and a large deck off the living room. Close to all amenities and beautiful walking trails that connect the different communities of the Crowsnest Pass. Amazing potential. $269,000.00 CALL JOHN MLS

Located in the centre of Blairmore, this two-bedroom condo has an in-suite

BELLEVUE RIVERBOTTOM Fantastic location in one of the nicest spots on the Crowsnest River. This 3-bedroom home is situated on a huge lot which could be a suitable location for a carriage house garage, or large garage. Main floor laundry.

Beautiful mountain views.

jpundyk@shaw.ca

COWLEY Beautifully converted former church in Cowley. Currently operated as a Bed and Breakfast. 2 bedrooms up and one bedroom down. 2 bathrooms, open floor plan, vaulted ceilings, with large windows and a well crafted door with authentic barn door hinges. The property is surrounded by wide open prairie sky and breathtaking views of the Livingstone Range. $324,900 CALL JOHN MLS

SOLD

BLAIRMORE

SOLD

Great access to all types of mountain activities. Hundreds of miles of mountain trails. $379,000 CALL JOHN MLS

COLEMAN

Immaculately maintained 20’ x 76’ manufactured home newly placed on its own lot in a great Blairmore location, close to walking trails.

3 spacious bedrooms, two bathrooms, and a large kitchen.

Very bright throughout. Close to shopping, dining, hospital, medical offices, and walking trails. $379,000 CALL JOHN MLS

BLAIRMORE COMMERCIAL

Very clean, new paint, flooring, and bathroom upgrades. Functional basement can accommodate more development. Electrical service recently upgraded.

Large double car garage. Very sunny location with opportunity for solar power or a garden. Quiet location. $355,000.

CALL JOHN MLS

Fantastic commercial location - includes 3 residential apartments – Downtown Blairmore. Approximately 8,550 sq. ft. on three levels including a walk out basement to the back lane.

SOLD

Great 2 bedroom weekend or retirement property. Nice quiet location with big yard.

BELLEVUE FLY SHOP High traffic prime commercial business in Crowsnest Pass, along busy Highway 3. This fully serviced property and the adjacent lot, also for sale, has East and West bound traffic access. Located on first approach to Crowsnest Pass. Currently occupied as a successful Fly-Fishing shop,

449,000.00 CALL JOHN MLS

BELLEVUE COMMERCIAL

attracting many fly fishermen throughout Canada and the U.S. Present zoning is C1 which allows for many different commercial opportunities. 435,000 CALL JOHN MLS

COLEMAN

Older manufactured home nicely transformed into a charming bun-

galow circa 1985, as per municipal assessment on record. There is a very nice addition, also drywall and newer windows throughout. Very recent modern updates to the kitchen and bathroom. Excellent flooring throughout. Three spacious bedrooms. Open floor plan with comfortable dining and living areas. There is also a storage room and lots of space to park an RV. $259,000 CALL JOHN MLS

Very affordable, modern building on main street Bellevue.

Recently rezoned to multiple residential zoning, can now be converted to apartments. Large lot adjacent to the building, allows for additional development on this property. There is also a shop area with a 10’ door at the rear. The street in front of the building, including pavement and underground

services, are being revitalized this summer. Spectacular mountain views in very active community. $459,000 CALL JOHN MLS

COLEMAN LAND promising piece of development land.

Close to services.

Several subdivision possibilities.

Subject to municipal approval, this piece of land could see multiple uses.

This listing involves multiple parcels of land in West Coleman. $450,000

14.5 acres of land in Coleman, Crowsnest Pass. Excellent opportunity to acquire a CALL JOHN MLS

Top 1% of more than 19,000 Royal LePage realtors coast to coast.

8 - CROWSNEST PASS HERALD - Wednesday, January 15, 2025

Letters to the Editor The Christmas coal messenger DAVID MCINTRYE Crowsnest Pass The tolling of cathedral bells echoed across the land as the Minister of Lignite and Conflagration rose to deliver a powerful, bituminous, pre-Christmas message: there would be no new mining of coal in the Holy Land … except as it would occur on one mountain … a mountain once grassy … and then elsewhere as it would be determined at a later date.

As the minister spoke, many listeners reported hearing the Australian national anthem playing in the background.

All across the land, people blindsided by the announcement and its blatant betrayal of their expressed

wishes looked on in disbelief. Many listeners wept.

Even faithful parishioners stood in slack-jawed bafflement and bewilderment. What part of their NO COAL MINING message was misunderstood?

Only industry lobbyists, coal mine crusaders, and those in support of industrially levelled mountains rejoiced, opened sooty-black hymnals, and sang their favourite stanza from Sixteen Tons: Some people say a man’s made outa mud A poor man’s made out of muscle and blood Muscle and blood, skin and bone A mind that’s weak and a back that’s strong Standing behind the Minister of Lignite and Conflagration, the Minister of Flame and Ignition seemed to glow in the absorbed radiance of the Yuletide message.

At its conclusion, the Minister of Flame and Ignition, wearing a warm and combustible smile, stepped forward to endorse the mountain-excavating, contradictory words of the Christmas Coal Messenger: no mines means one mine, … and then many more.

Saint Peter, don’t you call me, ‘cause I can’t go I owe my soul to the company store Throughout this vast land, career geologists joined housewives, engineers, mechanics and inquisitive children as they attempted to follow the Christmas Coal Messenger’s articulated vision promising no new open pit coal mines; a vision that included a need— and a commitment—to

mine coal in water-starved mountains.

There, in a perpetually thirsty watershed, a longdead mine with its polluted pit lakes is seen as a comatose zombie, a wounded train-wreck of a mine that lies in perpetual agony, in writhing, screaming need of ministerial resuscitation and a critical life-support system.

The Christmas Coal Messenger, responding to questions from reporters, used flailing hands and disarticulated baffle-speech to explain that what happens on a mountain, once grassy, stays on the mountain (once grassy), and how any water that falls on this mythical mountain has no hydrological connection to the meagre springs that flow from its base. He “explained,” too, how coal could be mined from a mountain while, incongruously, sparing the mountain … except, of course, for its thin—divinely extracted—seams of mined coal.

The minister’s parting vision revealed that here in the Holy Land, he would sacrifice only one mountain … … … at a time.

Downcast and disillusioned, the people living in the Promised Land looked with sadness upon their Christmas stockings … filled with coal. Again.

Bio for David McIntyre David lives on the land he loves in the storied headwaters of southwestern Alberta’s Oldman River. He has passionate interest—and knowledge—in diverse natural history disciplines, and is a strong advocate for the long-range economic and ecological worth of intact landscapes. David holds a MSc from the University of Washington (College of the Environment) and, for decades, led multi-day study tours for the Smithsonian Institution—via hiking and whitewater rafting trips— throughout the U.S. West and the Canadian Rockies.

25013KA0

The Crowsnest Museum is located in downtown Coleman - 7701 18 Ave, Coleman, AB T0K 0M0 Open Monday to Saturday 10 am - 5 pm CLOSED Sundays

The Crowsnest Museum is located in downtown Coleman - 7701 18 Ave, Coleman, AB T0K 0M0 Open Monday to Saturday 10 am - 5 pm CLOSED Sundays

Wednesday, January 15, 2025 - CROWSNEST PASS HERALD - 9

Celebrating Minor Hockey in CNP Crowsnest Thunder growing each year NICHOLAS L.M. ALLEN Pass Herald Reporter

Local hockey community sees rising participation and successes Crowsnest Pass is joining communities across Alberta in celebrating Minor Hockey Week, a province-wide initiative to promote youth hockey and encourage greater participation in the sport. For local minor hockey president Travis Gibboney, the week is an opportunity to spotlight the importance of hockey in the community and inspire more families to get involved.

“Minor Hockey Week is a time to celebrate youth hockey and put a focus on its importance here in Alberta,” Gibboney said, “We hope it gets more kids interested in playing and excited to join the sport.”

While no formal events are planned during the week itself, Gibboney highlighted a home tournament this weekend for the local U13 team.

“There will be six teams competing, so it’s a great chance for the community to come out and support youth hockey,” he said.

One of the challenges facing minor hockey organizations, including the Crowsnest Pass Minor Hockey Association, is declining participation over the years.

Gibboney noted that there was a time when two teams existed at every age group, but now some divisions struggle to field a single team. In response, the association has introduced affordable registration fees to encourage more families to sign up.

“This year, we offered $50 registration for anyone who signed up before July 1, and it’s always $50 for introductory hockey, which covers U7 and U9,” Gibboney explained, “It’s a way to lower the cost barrier and get more kids involved.”

The efforts have paid off, with local minor hockey seeing a significant increase in participation.

“For the first time in over a decade, we have a U15 team,” Gibboney said, “We’ve grown from about 20 kids six years ago to over 100 players now.”

Thunder PUPS: Back row left to right: Ron Schultz, Cody Pirozzi, Travis Panisiak, Jordan Bley, Mike Kaprowski, Dillon Williams, Jenaya Launstein, Chris Lafreniere, and Jordan Litchfield.

Middle row left to right: Back row: Weston Van Niedek, Maverick Bley, Brier Miller, Bennett Trembley, Liam Filipuzzi, Marley Senkow, Jayden Brown and Atlas Oslund.

Front row left to right: Lydia Panisiak, Max Pirozzi and Henley Litchfield.

Thunder U7: Back Row left to right: Cody Pirozzi, Chris Lafreniere, Jenaya Launstein, Jordan Bley, Jaclyn Hamilton, Travis Panisiak, Dillon Williams and Ronald Schulz.

Middle Standing left to right: Kayden Yeliga, Korbin Filipuzzi, Kevin Pirozzi, Carson Van Der Aa, Ayla Storey, Gwenyth Graham, Lynon Miller, Waylon Weaver, Austin Bley and Jude Shortreed-Sangwin Middle Sitting left to right: Jordan Litchfield, Rhett Weber, Devin Hamilton, Jeremiah Jans, Rebecca Rexer, Adelina Mangone, Finn Sinnott, Wesley Zanoni, Jesse Brotchie and William Zanoni.

Front Left to right: Edison Burton, Lawson Williams, Nixon Lafreniere, Van Pawlowski, Mykhail Shipowich, Owen Mckenzie, Andrew Sherlock and Sebastian South.

Missing from photo: Hasithreddy Allu and Bjorn Power

Cont’d on page 12

Prestige Cleaners

Downtown Blairmore

Thunder U9: Back Row left to right: Coady Macdonald, Jesse Hnidy, Mike Kaprowski, Owen Christopher, Jaclyn Hamilton and Kevin Michalsky.

Middle Standing left to right: Hudson Parks, Jay Senkow, Emmett Riewe, Bowden WIlliams, Colter Michalsky, Haven Self, Finn Graham Hudson Priest and Hudson Bell.

Middle Sitting left to right: Parker Pow, Declan Colucci, Rylan Weber, Jack Kaprowski, Benji Christopher, Rory MacDonald and Jade Hamilton.

Front Left to right: Blake Fillipuzzi, Eddie Hattingh, Williams Trotz, Kyson Mckee, Gus Trotz and Arlo Fulkerth.

Missing from photo: Coaches: Dillon Williams, Joey Parks and Cooper Trotz

10 - CROWSNEST PASS HERALD - Wednesday, January 15, 2025

Celebrating youth, community, and the spirit of Canada’s Game At its core, Minor Hockey Week is about more than just the game, it’s a celebration of the values that hockey instills in youth. The event serves as an opportunity for families, schools, and local communities to rally around their young players, encouraging physical activity and mental development while fostering a love for the sport. Across the country, from small towns to major cities, local hockey associations organize tournaments, special games, and celebrations that allow players of all ages and skill levels to come together and compete. These activities are often complemented by community events designed to engage fans, such as autograph sessions with local hockey heroes, skills clinics, and hockey-themed fundraisers.

In 2025, Minor Hockey Week will also focus on inclusivity and diversity, aiming to ensure that the sport is accessible to all Canadians, regardless of gender, socioeconomic background, or physical ability. National and local initiatives in recent years have worked to break down barriers to participation, and this year’s celebrations will continue that progress. From introducing programs that encourage girls’ hockey participation to supporting Indigenous youth in remote communities,

Minor Hockey Week will highlight these efforts and promote hockey as a sport for everyone.

Moreover, the event underscores the role that hockey plays in shaping the character of Canadian youth. It’s not just about skating and scoring goals; it’s about teamwork, discipline, respect, and leadership. For young players, Minor Hockey Week is an opportunity to learn and grow, both on and off the ice. Coaches and mentors help players develop skills that translate far beyond hockey rinks—such as time management, goal setting, and how to handle adversity.

Throughout Canada, Minor Hockey Week provides a sense of pride and unity, uniting diverse communities in their shared love of the game. It’s a reminder of how integral hockey is to Canadian culture and how it helps to shape the next generation of players and citizens. As the 2025 edition of Minor Hockey Week unfolds, the event will serve as a powerful reminder of the importance of youth sports in fostering positive values, building strong communities, and nurturing the potential of young Canadians.

Nicholas L.M. Allen photos U11 Thunder hockey players participated in a scrimmage and puck clean-up during the intermission of the National Junior Hockey League All-Star Showcase on January 11 at the Crowsnest Pass Sports Complex. The game was officiated by U15 player Branson Gillard and U13 player Malcom Banting.

Coal to Goal: Powering the Future of Hockey!

Just like steel sharpens skates, Grassy Mountain’s steelmaking coal can help build arenas, helmets and nets!

Northback is proud to support Crowsnest Minor Hockey

Thank you to our coaches, volunteers and the community for supporting our kids!

Celebrating Minor Hockey Week Find us on FB CNP-Thunder

because every slapshot, save and celly deserves a solid foundation.

Together, let’s score big for our community!

Wednesday, January 15, 2025 - CROWSNEST PASS HERALD - 11

CNP Waste Disposal 563-5220 • 563-0321

U13 home game win

Shannon Burton

403-563-3242

R. Rinaldi Welding 403-562-2511

Celebrating Minor Hockey Week

over 20 years of service in Historic Downtown Coleman

403-562-2168

12 - CROWSNEST PASS HERALD - Wednesday, January 15, 2025

Celebrating Minor Hockey in CNP Celebrating Minor Hockey week cont’d from page 9

Thunder U11: Back Row left to right: Andy Bradbury, RyanLegroulx, Derek Sagrafena, Kevin Michalsky and Travis Ball.

Middle left to right: Abbot Graham, Levi Michalsky, Mckenna Tremel, Chase Plowman, Aleksei Zbrodoff, Reggie Davis and Jax Bjorgan.

Front Left to right: Garrison Gillard, Jesse Byers, Emelia Mangone, Jesse Bal, Mason Bradbury, Chase Legroulx and Oliver Smaha.

Missing from photo: Coach Billy Houda, Beau Houda and Weston Sagrafena.

Refereeing, another area of concern for many minor hockey organizations across Canada, has also seen improvement locally.

“We’ve done well this year with referees,” Gibboney said, “We have over 20 referees now, but there have been years where we’ve had as few as six for the entire association.”

For those interested in officiating, the association provides opportunities for youth as young as 12 to take referee clinics and begin officiating introductory hockey games.

“I’ve been reffing for a long time and try to help new refs as much as I can,” Gibboney said.

As Minor Hockey Week continues, Gibboney encouraged the community to support the sport by attending games, cheering on local teams, and registering young children for hockey.

“The earlier kids start, the more they can enjoy the game,” he said.

With growing participation and strong community support, minor hockey in Crowsnest Pass is thriving, and this year’s celebrations reflect the passion and dedication of everyone involved.

CelebratingMinorHockeyWeek

403-562-8282 Blairmore Thunder U13: Back Row left to right: Kyle Cytko, Garry Luini, Chris Lafreniere and Marshall Banting.

Middle left to right: Cruz McKee, Griffin Luini, Tristen Mckerracher, Isaiah Montgomery, Nicolas Baker, Nash Lafreniere, Ember Cytko, Malcom Banting.

Front Left to right: Mateo Mangone, Charlie Moore, Shane Pagnucco, Zander Fulkerth, Jax Fulkerth and Noah Burton.

Allied Hardware Thunder U15: Back Row left to right: Ron Gillespie, Craig Biship, Aidan Bishop, Ryder Jorgenson, Noah Martel, Eli Bailey, Sam Graham Jack Bishop, Mike Kirkman and Ty Anctil.

Front Left to right: Branson Gillard, Joshua Heyboer, Nicolas Gillespie, Sophey Gibboney-Stafford, Parker Bunnage and Owen Kirkman.

Wednesday, January 15, 2025 - CROWSNEST PASS HERALD - 13

Thunder U9 shine at Sparwood tournament CODY BELL Thunder Media Volunteer This past weekend, the Crowsnest Thunder U9 hockey team took to the ice in Sparwood for a tournament filled with excitement and impressive performances.

The Thunder played three action-packed games, showcasing both individual talent and team spirit.

Game 1: Thunder vs. Elk Valley Kodiaks In their opening game, the Thunder faced off against the Elk Valley Kodiaks.

Goaltender Rory Macdonald (#14) was a standout, making several crucial saves to keep his team in the game. The Thunder’s offense was led by Hudson Parks (#3), who scored an unassisted goal to give the team an early lead. Despite the Kodiaks’ best efforts, the Thunder’s defense and solid goaltending kept them in control throughout the game.

Game 2: Thunder vs. Elk Valley Grizzlies The second game of the weekend saw the Thunder take on the Elk Valley Grizzlies in a fast-paced matchup. Thunder players Finn Graham (#16), Hudson Bell (#6), and Hudson Parks (#3) each contributed with unassisted goals, showing their offensive firepower. In net, Jack Kaprowski (#2) was a strong presence, ensuring the Grizzlies couldn’t find the back of the net. The Thunder’s teamwork and speed were on full display in this exciting contest.

Game 3: Thunder vs. Cranbrook Cobras The Thunder wrapped up their weekend with a dominant performance against the Cranbrook Cobras. Rory Macdonald (#14) continued his excellent play in goal, keeping the Cobras at bay. On offense, Jack Kaprowski (#2) opened the scoring with a goal assisted by Finn Graham (#16). Graham wasn’t done there, as he scored two more goals—one with assists from Gus Trotz (#5) and Colter Michalsky (#10), and another unassisted. Hudson Bell (#6) capped off the Thunder’s strong performance with an unassisted goal, bringing the final score to a well-deserved win for the Thunder.

The Crowsnest Thunder U9 Green Team showcased outstanding teamwork, skill, and sportsmanship throughout the weekend, making a strong impression at the Sparwood tournament. Their performance was a testament to their hard work and determination. Congratulations to all the players for a fantastic weekend of hockey!

U13 Thunder starts the year strong with shutouts RHONDA M Thunder Media Volunteer The U13 Thunder kicked off the new year with a pair of dominating shutout victories in their away games on January 4th and 5th. First, they blanked the High Country Rockies 6-0, followed by a 7-0 win against the Nanton Palominos the next day. Goalie Zander Fulkerth (#1) continued his stellar season, saving 94% of the shots he’s faced so far, with only 27 goals allowed out of 453 attempts in 10 regular season games. This impressive feat has kept his team as the best defensive squad in the U13T4B league. Well done, Zander!

In the January 4th game, Jax Fulkerth (#4) and Nash Lafreniere (#19) each contributed 2 goals and 1 assist. Noah Burton (#3) and Cruz McKee (#5) also scored, while Griffin Luini (#11) and Tristen McKerracher (#14) each added an assist. The following day, the Thunder’s offensive firepower continued as Jax Fulkerth (#4) and Cruz McKee (#5) each scored twice, with single goals from Burton (#3), McKerracher (#14), and Lafreniere (#19). Four players—Jax Fulkerth (#4), Mateo Mangone (#8), Griffin Luini (#11), and Charlie Moore (#12)— each earned two assists, while Burton (#3), Ember Cytko (#6), and Lafreniere (#19) each had one.

The team’s strong performance continued the next weekend, as the Thunder hosted the Foothills Flyers on January 11th. After the Flyers scored early, the Thunder quickly responded, with Lafreniere (#19) netting a goal assisted by Jax Fulkerth (#4) just five minutes later. Lafreniere went on to score a hat trick, while Jax Fulkerth also added a goal. McKee (#5) scored once, and Fulkerth’s birthday

was made even sweeter with an outstanding 53-save performance. This victory took the team’s overall record into a solid position, currently sitting in the top three in their league.

Next up, the U13 Thunder will host a 4-team tournament at the Crowsnest Sports Complex from January 17th to 19th. The Thunder will play Friday at 5:00pm, Saturday at 9:00am and 2:30pm, and Sunday at 9:00am and 11:30am (game times will depend on results from earlier games). Fans are encouraged to wear green and come cheer on the team, with free entry, tasty food from Cadillac Kitchen, and exciting activities like a live online 50/50 raffle (tickets available at Raffle Box), a Saturday raffle table with great prizes, and a fun “pluck-a-puck” game. For more updates on the tournament and local hockey action, visit the CNP Thunder’s Facebook page or their website: Crowsnest Pass Minor Hockey.

Let’s show our support and help the Thunder continue their winning ways!

Merch on Main welcomes new owner and new ideas NICHOLAS L.M. ALLEN Pass Herald Reporter

Community embraces local entrepreneur’s vision for artisan-focused shopping experience Merch on Main, a vendor consignment store in the heart of the Crowsnest Pass, has entered an exciting new chapter with local entrepreneur Kim Cunningham taking the helm. A familiar face in the community, Cunningham brings her passion for supporting local artisans and her wealth of experience as manager of the Crowsnest Community Market to the store’s new direction.

Cunningham, who has lived in the Pass since 2019, has deep ties to the area.

Her husband was born and raised in the region, and the couple returned to the community to settle down. In addition to her role as market manager, Cunningham is a real estate agent with the Real Estate Centre in Blairmore and an artisan herself.

Her decision to take over Merch on Main was inspired by her time managing the community market, where she worked with over 100 vendors.

“Merch on Main is a vendor consignment store, and I saw an opportunity to grow it into a place where the amazing artisans in our area can display and sell their work year-round,” Cunningham said, “For many vendors, once market season ends, their products are boxed up until the next season. Now, they have a place to sell during those off months.”

Cunningham’s vision for the store emphasizes its role as a hub for handmade, locally crafted goods. Currently, Merch on Main collaborates with nearly 50 vendors, most of whom are from the Pass and surrounding areas.

“This is not your typical store,” Cunningham said, “It’s the true meaning of ‘shop local.’ We ensure that everything is handcrafted, and we strive to maintain a wide variety of unique items, avoiding duplication of similar products.”

While no immediate changes are planned for the store, Cunningham’s priority is spreading the word about its distinct approach.

“We’re more than just a gift store—we’re an artisan store,” she said.

Community response has been overwhelmingly positive, especially during the busy Christmas shopping season, and new vendors continue to join the collaboration.

As for future celebrations, Cunningham hinted at a spring event to mark this new chapter for Merch on Main.

“We haven’t planned anything yet, but spring seems like the right time to do something special,” she said.

For now, Cunningham’s focus is on ensuring the store remains a vibrant marketplace for handmade goods, fostering a year-round community market feel.

“It’s all about showcasing the talent in this area and giving local artisans the opportunity to shine,” she said.

Merch on Main invites residents and visitors to explore its unique offerings and support local artisans in the heart of the Crowsnest Pass.

To renew your paper contact us at passherald@shaw.ca or 403.562.2248

14 - CROWSNEST PASS HERALD - Wednesday, January 15, 2025

Livingstone School Division board update FRANK MCTIGHE Contributor

Career practitioner sets students up for success Livingstone Range School Division’s lone career practitioner is working to set students up for success at graduation and in their careers.

Career practitioner Lettie Croskerie made a presentation to trustees during the Dec. 17 school board meeting at the G.R. Davis Administration Building in Fort Macleod.

Croskerie reflected on the changes since she joined Livingstone Range as one of three career practitioners each looking after two high schools.

That number was reduced to two, and then to one.

“I am now the sole career practitioner providing services to six schools in addition to the virtual school,” Croskerie said. “Things have changed but we are still providing awesome services to our students.

Croskerie reviewed the career services goals: • Making families aware of the range of career services available.

Croskerie gave weekly presentations in September and October based on aspects of post-secondary studies.

• Ensuring high school students understand graduation requirements.

“There is a whole team of us working towards that,” Croskerie said. “I think it’s always beneficial to have as many eyes on students and their progress toward graduation as possible.”

• Helping students develop a plan to meet the required courses and grade averages needed to achieve their career goals.

Croskerie connects with students through classroom presentations, individual appointments, events and outings.

• Helping high school graduates leave with the confidence, tools and information needed to pursue their career goals.

Croskerie told trustees about opportunities for students such as school visits by post-secondary institutions, campus tours, job and volunteer fairs, trade exploration days, skills days at rural hospitals, the University of Calgary medical school Discovery Days, and youth summits.

Croskerie told trustees there was a huge increase in enrollment in dual credit programs in the second semester.

“That’s going great,” Croskerie said.

There are other opportunities where students can travel and earn high school credits, as well as a summer forest ranger program.

Croskerie shared with trustees the results of a recent survey of Grade 12 students that resulted in 114 replies.

“The nice thing is that almost 100 per cent are considering post-secondary education at some point within the next five years,” Croskerie said.

Most students would like to enter post-secondary immediately following high school graduation while some are considering a one- to two-year break.

The majority of students considering post-secondary favour a two- to three-year diploma program or a four-year degree.

Most students want to stay in Alberta for post-secondary, according to the survey.

Almost 58 per cent of students indicated they need financial help to attend post-secondary, including grants, loans and scholarships.

Croskerie works to let students know where funding is available and how much is likely needed, as well as the requirements for entry into their chosen field of study.

“I always say my job is to help students save time and money,” Croskerie said.

In response to a question from trustee Kathy Charchun, Croskerie admitted being the lone career practitioner for the school division is at times difficult.

“I think the time constraint and the geographical restrictions are always going to be a challenge,” Croskerie said. “At this stage I am managing.”

Croskerie attempts to visit each school once a week for a half or full day.

If there are more students requesting her services Croskerie will make more time for that particular school.

“I go where the need is greatest,” Croskerie said.

Off campus programs benefit students Students in Livingstone Range School Division are earning high school credits while getting real life work experience.

The Work Experience, Registered Apprentice and Green Certificate programs put students into workplaces across the division.

Off campus co-ordinators Rob Charchun and Eliza Grose appeared as a delegation at the Dec. 17 school board meeting at the G.R. Davis Administration Building in Fort Macleod.

Grose is responsible for the east-west corridor of Livingstone Range, which includes Crowsnest Pass, Matthew Halton and Livingstone schools, as well as the Gateway school.

Charchun looks after the north-south corridor which includes J.T. Foster, Willow Creek Composite and F.P. Walshe schools as well as the Crossroads Campus outreach school.

Grose and Charchun share responsibility for the virtual school students.

“It allows for us to maximize our time to meet the needs of our students, limiting our travel and being able to work in a partnership,” Grose said.

Grose praised the work Charchun has done over the years for the off campus program.

Grose and Charchun connect with school administrators and work to ensure students who need credits are able to earn them.

“We are making sure that we are meeting the needs of our high priority students,” Grose said.

Students can earn high school credits in the Work Experience (15), Green Certificate (16), and Registered Apprenticeship (41) programs.

More than 70 Livingstone Range students are registered in the Work Experience program, which places them in such locations as a seniors’ residence, deli, candy store, coffee shop, motel and museum.

The breakdown for student placements in Work Experience is as follows: Crowsnest Consolidated, 19 students; Livingstone school, four; Matthew Halton, 16; F.P. Walshe, six; Willow Creek Composite, 12; J.T. Foster, nine; Crossroads, four; Pursuits, one; and Gateway, one.

“The exciting part is we’re meeting the need, or the interest, at every school,” Grose said. “We haven’t had to turn students away, which is fantastic.”

Ten Livingstone Range students are earning credits through the Registered Apprenticeship Program (RAP), including two students from each of Crowsnest Consolidated, Livingstone and F.P. Walshe; three from Matthew Halton and one from Crossroads.

The RAP focus is in the areas of welding, millwright, automotive, heavy duty mechanic and motorcycle technician.

Forty-six students are in the Green Certificate Program, which has focus in the areas of cow-calf, equine, feedlot, swine, poultry, dairy and crops.

The Green Certificate Program breakdown is as follows: Livingstone and F.P. Walshe, five; Matthew Halton 12; J.T. Foster and Pursuits, six; Willow Creek Composite, nine; and Crossroads, three.

“It’s a great opportunity for our students,” Grose said. “We are really special in Livingstone Range to have ag as one of our areas that our students are exposed to.”

Grose told trustees about some of the professional development opportunities as well as community connections that have been made.

Charchun took the opportunity to recognize three site managers who help Livingstone Range students, including Donelle Tenyke at the McDonald’s Restaurant in Fort Macleod, Rachel Agus at IGA in Claresholm, and Kristen Hall of The Hive in Nanton.

Charchun said they are willing to take students and help them to ensure the young people are successful.

“While these people aren’t on our payroll, they are teachers,” Charchun said.

“There’s lots more, of course.”

Livingstone Range welcomes international students Students from around the world continue to arrive in Livingstone Range School Division in large numbers.

Sixty young people, or 45 full-time equivalent students, have enrolled in high schools across the division this year, and that number will grow.

“This is shaping up to be one of our larger years, for sure,” associate superintendent Chad Kuzyk said. “We’re still continuing to take students into the program.

It’s exciting to see those numbers right now.”

Kuzyk made a presentation on the international student program during the Dec. 17 school board meeting at the G.R. Davis building in Fort Macleod.

Kuzyk told trustees the international students come from diverse backgrounds.

“We have students from all over,” Kuzyk said.

The students enrolled in Livingstone Range this year are from Belgium, Brazil, France, China, Germany, Italy, Mexico, Spain, Thailand, Turkey, Viet Nam and Japan.

Kuzyk said an effort is made to place about 10 students in each high school so as not to overload any one school.

The ability to balance placements, however, depends on the number of host families in each community willing to take on an international student.

Willow Creek Composite in Claresholm has the highest intake of international students with 16, followed by F.P. Walshe school in Fort Macleod with 15.

There are nine international students at J.T. Foster school in Nanton, eight at Crowsnest Consolidated, seven at Livingstone school in Lundbreck and five at Matthew Halton school in Pincher Creek.

“So far, so good,” Kuzyk said. “They’ve settled in very nicely.”

A summer program for international students saw 11 students from Japan take programs at the PEAKS campus in the Crowsnest Pass.

“I look forward to that continuing on for years to come,” said Kuzyk, who visited the high school in Japan in the fall to build the relationship.

The high school in Japan is an Alberta credited high school.

“It was our first one and the students appeared to enjoy and the staff did as well,” Kuzyk told trustees.

The international students travelled as a group to the Tyrell Museum in Drumheller and to a Calgary Flames hockey game.

“It’s almost a little like team bonding for the international crew to be able to be together and do those trips,” Kuzyk said.

Cont’d on page 15

Wednesday, January 15, 2025 - CROWSNEST PASS HERALD - 15

Livingstone update cont’d from page 14 Livingstone Range will work to maintain international enrollment at about 45 full-time equivalent students and to spread them evenly through the communities.

The goal is to have representation from countries around the world.

“We’re limited by the number of homestays in the program, which we always will be,” Kuzyk said, stressing the need for more host families in the western part of the division.

The goal this is year is 55 full-time equivalent students, increasing to 65 next year.

“We try to grow sustainably,” Kuzyk said.

Kuzyk also told trustees work is under way to develop student ambassadors at each high school to help the international students as they arrive.

“A friendly face to say hi to when they arrive,” Kuzyk said. “We hope to have that established by the end of the year.”

School board vice-chair Lacy Poytress praised the international program.

“Having these international students in our schools is huge for our students,” Poytress said. “They really become a huge part of our community. Fort Macleod is very aware of those 15 students.”

The students volunteer at events and participate on the sports teams.

“It has a huge impact on our communities,” Poytress said. “It’s a wonderful thing for our students to get to know these international students.”

Life-long connections are made between the Livingstone Range students and their international visitors.

“The culture in our schools has greatly benefited from what those international students bring,” trustee Brad Toone added. “The bonds they make with the students and the families is just great”.

Kuyzk agreed.

“The international students bring a lot of benefits to the community and the school,” Kuzyk said.

Trustee candidates won’t require criminal record check Livingstone Range School Division will not require candidates to undergo a criminal record check.

A proposed by-law did not receive second reading during the Dec. 17 school board meeting at the G.R. Davis Administration Building in Fort Macleod.

Trustees gave first reading to the by-law at their Nov. 26 meeting and considered second reading on Dec. 17.

Trustee Brad Toone introduced the motion for second reading to get discussion under way.

School board chair Lori Hodges said as she reflected on the by-law following first reading, she wondered what problem the provincial government was trying to solve.

The government passed legislation allowing municipalities and school boards to make criminal record checks a requirement for candidates.

The decision to require those record checks, was left to councils and school boards and not made mandatory.

“If the government wanted it, why did they not implement it?” Hodges asked.

The criminal record would not be posted by the school division, but someone could request it.

However, there are no details provided on the criminal record, only that the person has one.

Hodges said the requirement of a criminal record check could prove to be a barrier that would stop people from running for trustee positions.

The record check only indicates there is something on a person’s file, but not what the offence was that led to criminal conviction.

Potential candidates could decide that record check is more trouble than it is worth.

Hodges also noted school board members do not work directly with children in their role as trustee.

“I’m not comfortable with it as it stands,” Hodges said.

Toone didn’t want to analyze the government’s motive for opening the door for criminal record checks.

Toone said requiring criminal record checks is simply “another tool in the toolbox” for school boards.

“I think this is a positive thing,” Toone said.

School board vice-chair Lacey Poytress did not favour implementing the requirement.

“I really have a hard time thinking about putting this into practice,” Poytress said.

Poytress said the school board is right to question the government.

Poytress said it makes work for the RCMP, who do the criminal record check, for little real benefit.

Trustee Clara Yagos agreed with Poytress, and said the criminal record check will only serve to deter people from entering an election.

Trustee Greg Long said the criminal record check doesn’t solve any issue.

Long was against using criminal record checks as a way to judge a person’s character bed on something that may have only been a youthful indiscretion.

“There is no way a criminal record check is any proof of a character of a person,” Long said.

Trustee Carla Gimber supported requiring a criminal record check.

Gimber said the criminal record check provides additional information the pub-

lic can use to make an educted decision when it is time to vote.

“I would be in favour of it,” Gimber said.

Trustee Kathy Charchun did not support the by-law, seeing it as a deterrent to people entering the election.

At present under the Local Authorities Elections Act, a person is not eligible to be nominated as a candidate if within the previous 10 years they have been convicted of an offence.

Nominations for the municipal election on Oct. 20, 2025 open in January and are accepted until noon on Sept. 22, 2025.

Toone said other school boards are requiring criminal record checks.

“I think it’s unfortunate if this board chooses not to do this,” Toone said. “I think it’s another opportunity for transparency.”

Requiring a criminal record check would only serve to elevate the role of trustees, Toone added.

The vote to give the by-law second reading was defeated by a vote of 5-2, with only Toone and Gimber in favour.

School board gets financial update Livingstone Range School Board received an update in December on the division’s finances.

Director of finances Jordan Gunderson provided details with the board’s audit committee’s report.

Trustees reviewed the report during their Dec. 17 meeting at the G.R. Davis Administration Building in Fort Macleod.

School board chair Lori Hodges said the board’s audit committee met with staff on Dec. 11 to review the report, which represents 25 per cent of the fiscal year and 30 per cent of the school year.

Gunderson told trustees the report shows a $133,222 decrease in the division’s financial position from the previous year.

Livingstone Range had revenue totalling $14,230,461 as of Nov. 30, which is $162,597 over budget.

Expenses totalled $14,363,683, which is $216,738 more than budget.

That left the $133,222 deficit, which is $54,943 higher than budget.

Gunderson told trustees the school division had operating reserves of $1.71-million at the end of last year.

At the end of November that amount was $1.57-million.

Gunderson reminded trustees the 2025 budget calls for a $524,936 deficit.

The forecast now is for a $381,035 deficit.

“Forecasts at this time of year are very volatile — we still have three quarters of the year to go,” Gunderson said. “But it is a good sign of where we’re at in our budget.”

Contract negotiations with staff are one of the unknown factors at present that will impact the division’s financial position.

Livingstone Range will also receive a financial adjustment from the province at some point that will impact revenue.

Trustees write minister about transportation Education Minister Demetrios Nicolaides will learn of local concerns with the government’s changes to school busing.

Livingstone Range School Board directed it advocacy committee to write the minister regarding the changes.

“I think this is a timely advocacy letter to be written,” school board chair Lori Hodges said.

The decision to write a letter to Nicolaides and Livingstone-Macleod MLA Chelsea Petrovic came at the board’s Dec. 17 meeting at the G.R. Davis Administration Building in Fort Macleod.

The province had mandated school boards must provide transportation for Kindergarten to Grade 6 students who live at least one kilometre from school.

Trustees learned Dec. 17 that distance is now being increased to 1.6 kilometres for Kindergarten to Grade 6 students.

Transportation must also be provided for Grade 7-12 students who live two kilometres or further from school.

Trustees heard at their November meeting from transportation director Rick Visser the new rules created problems for some families with children in multiple grades, who must ride different buses.

Livingstone Range had to add bus routes, hire new drivers and may need more buses to accommodate the government’s regulations.

Trustees will meet again with the transportation department before the letter is drafted.

Returning officer The school board appointed associate superintendent of business services Jeff Perry as returning officer for the next election.

Trustees also appointed administrative assistant to the superintendent Nikki Litwynn as substitute returning officer.

President’s Award The school board learned that trustee Brad Toone received the Alberta School Boards Association’s President’s Award.

The award was presented during the association’s fall general meeting.

The award recognizes trustees for their work on behalf of education in Alberta.

“Brad is well known for his commitment to this work,” school board chair Lori Hodges said.

Toone thanked the other trustees and administration for their support.

16 - CROWSNEST PASS HERALD - Wednesday, January 15, 2025

Acknowledging Intangible Cultural Heritage IRYNA OLEKSIIVNA Nowadays, people are travelling more, taking an interest in everything that is happening in the world and expanding their horizons, all of which is wonderful. Every different country evokes some associations in us, be it their national flag, language, their unique nature, architectural monuments, certain sports and, of course, their traditional cuisine. My country, the Ukraine, is known to the world, amongst other things, for its sports, cultural achievements and delicious traditional food.

Upon arriving in Canada, I was pleased to find pierogi and my favorite dish cabbage rolls here. These dishes are very popular in Ukraine, so the very first thing I decided to do was to cook Ukrainian borscht for my new friends. This type of soup is not only food for us, but also a real cultural heritage. Borscht is known not only in Ukraine though; it is on the list of national dishes of Belarus, Russia, Lithuania, Poland and Jewish cuisine. There were many disputes about the origins of borscht.

According to many experts, borscht originally appeared in Ukraine in the late Middle Ages and gradually spread to other territories.

These days tourists coming to the Ukraine can find this dish in almost any restaurant, regardless of its classification and status. They will be pleasantly surprised by the varied taste and original presentation of this dish. For example, it can be placed in the center of fresh cabbage or brought in a pot made of bread. In 2020, a Museum of Cooked Borscht appeared in one of the Ukrainian villages in the Poltava region. Poltava Oblast (region) is in the center of Ukraine and known for its outstanding theater scene, art galleries and cultural centers.

The museum’s owner has collected at least 365 borscht recipes and every day visitors can not only get acquainted with the history of this dish, but also try borscht cooked according to one of his recipes. The first written mention of Ukrainian borscht appeared in Kyiv in 1584 and there is much archival evidence that for century’s borscht has been and is a favorite dish of Ukrainians of different social status. It has become a classic dish that has swept the entire country.

In 2022, UNESCO announced the inclusion of the culture of cooking Ukrainian borscht in the List of Masterpieces of the Oral and Intangible Cultural Heritage of Ukraine in need of preservation. By definition intangible heritage is part of the living cultural heritage (knowledge, practices and expressions) that community’s value.

For those who are unaware, borscht is a vegetable soup made with beets and cooked in pork or beef broth. It has a distinctive sweet and sour taste and red color, which is given to it by the beets. In order to achieve the desired degree of acidity, people used to add sour berries, beet kvass (fermented beet juice), apples or cherries to borscht. Later, they began to use tomatoes. Borscht also contains finely chopped fresh cabbage. The ingredients for this dish vary depending on the region in which people lived.

As an example, in my family, one grandmother lived in a forest zone and cooked borscht with collected forest mushrooms, and the other lived in the steppe zone and added sweet peppers and beans to her dish. What’s surprising is that in both cases, borscht did not lose its characteristic aroma and taste. If there was a stove in the house, borscht was cooked on coals, using a clay or cast iron pot and the borscht was incredibly aromatic.

My parents’ house still has my grandmother’s cooking pot and many other old memorabilia that Ukrainians used at that time. There is a very old wooden board for ironing and a vereteno (spindle for a spinning wheel) which my grandmother used to weave rugs for the floor. In the city of Kyiv you will find the Pirogov National Museum of Folk Architecture and Life of Ukraine. This museum is located in the open air and is a landscape complex of all regions of Ukraine. It contains the same household items as in our family collection and I am very glad that they have been preserved as a memory of our ancestors.

As for borscht, it is unique in that it can be used as a full breakfast, lunch or dinner.

Usually, borscht is served with sour cream and buns with garlic, green onions and hot red pepper. If borscht is prepared for guests, then a shot of vodka can be served with it. I can safely call the preparation of this dish is a real creative process. Each housewife brings something of her own to it. For example, some can add smoked pear or dried plums to borscht, and some recipes include river fish. In our family, borscht was also cooked in different ways. My grandmother sometimes cooked borscht from a domestic rooster, adding a lot of sour cream and fried bacon to it. My second grandmother was quite religious and often cooked lean borscht in vegetable

broth. With the onset of spring, she sometimes added some fresh nettles and greens grown in her garden to her borscht. We had a distant relative who knew how to cook special borscht and everyone he treated to his culinary masterpiece believed so. They said that he boiled the meat on the bone for a very long time over low heat, and then gradually added vegetables and spices. He tried to achieve the same taste as borscht cooked in the oven, and he succeeded. There is a memory in the family that he spent half a day on this. I don’t know if it’s true or not, but no one has ever managed to make the same borscht as his. He lived in the Ukrainian city of Zhitomir and in our family we called his borscht “Zhitomirskiy borscht”.

Nowadays, borscht has become a common everyday dish, but in the past it was served to guests at weddings and other celebrations including being served at the Christmas table. Borscht was also cooked on memorial days. Since there is no single correct recipe for Ukrainian borscht, this dish was the subject of disputes among housewives, because each wanted to boast of her own special recipe. Interestingly, it is impossible to teach how to cook this delicious repast. To do this, you need to visit your relatives and friends’ houses more often, share your recipes, and enjoy delicious food and a warm, pleasant atmosphere.

The secret of cooking delicious Ukrainian borscht is this. The vegetables and tomatoes need to be fried in a frying pan or baked in the oven ahead of time. But the most important secret is to cook it only while in a good mood, with thoughts about your loved ones and those dear to you.

My last word on this cultural specialty is this, “If borscht is prepared for guests, then a shot of vodka should be served with it, and then definitely washed down with green onions, previously soaked in salt. There is an opinion out there that this sequence is very beneficial for health. I will not claim this, but the men in Ukraine certainly think so.

I can safely call the preparation of this dish a real Iryna Oleksiivna photos creative process and each Borscht ready to go; Seated at grandmothers spinning housewife brings somewheel; Grandmothers ironing board; Cooking pot and thing of her own to it” oven; Hand woven rugs.

Wednesday, January 15, 2025 - CROWSNEST PASS HERALD - 17

Looking Back

BY JOHN KINNEAR

Looking Back at the Passsed 2024 saw many beloved family members slip away from us all here in the Pass.

The list is long and varied but each one was a life well lived and each one played an integral part in what makes up our amazing community. I have read through that list and with some names there are personal stories or observations that come to mind that I would like to share. I trust that the families of those mentioned will see it is an acknowledgment by the writer of some part of their special lives.

Starting in January the name Rose Marie Cocciolone came up and a memory of her starting every day in pin curls and a hair net came to mind. Rose Marie or Tootsie as she was called was one of 10 children of Joseph and Rosie Cocciolone.

I knew some of her siblings like Frank, Tony, Nata (Milvain) and Frena (Langille) and of course Joey. I interviewed Joey in 2017 and his story is on line at (passheraldarchive.ca) and is entitled “Tales of a York Creek Trapper”. Rose Marie outlived all her siblings and was a colourful character indeed.

On January 21st came the news of the abrupt passing of the enigmatic David Edgar Cole or Choppy as he was known. Choppy’s life and career here is symbolic of those who chose to play a part in enriching and protecting their community. Choppy served two terms on town council, was for many years a volunteer firefighter, fire marshal, member of the Masonic Lodge, refurbisher of the Bellevue Mine and one of the builders of our cherished Fireman’s Park. Someone shared a funny story with me about him that goes back to the days when he worked as a caretaker at the high school. It seems that the biology lab had a pet iguana named Iggy who one day got loose and hid under the baseboard heater. The caretaker was called to help get at him but it turned out that Choppy was absolutely terrified of Iggy. At one point he said, “If that thing even moves its tail I will make a new hole in the wall to get out of here.” His was a life well lived.

In early February Milo Alphonse Marcial passed away at the age of 99. What a life this man had and he lived it to the fullest. An excellent carpenter, Milo ran Milo’s Contracting for over 40 years. He served as a volunteer fireman for 45 years and was given the Governor General award on two occasions for his service. As Fire Chief Milo and his team created Thunder in the Valley in 1992. He was a member of the Knights of Columbus and by all reports a great hockey player, playing for the Crow United Seniors Men team. I learned that in that capacity he had the nickname Spider, as he was all arms and legs and even took the practices seriously.

Milo said of the Pass, “it’s the most beautiful place on earth”.On April 12th another well known character from Bellevue passed at the age of 92. Yolanda Gregory was known as an outstanding baker and caterer and like many others always involved in our community. She could be a lot of fun. I laughed when I read that one of her commitments was called Citizens on Patrol where she and Marge Houda patrolled the community looking for troublemakers. I can’t imagine being confronted by those two as a teenager. At a garage sale years ago I bought a special belt from Yolanda that was her husband Bill’s. It is unique in that it has a hidden zipper around part of the inside of it for stashing money. “Riposa tranquilla ti vogliamo bene“ On May 4th Avner Perl left us bringing to an end a remarkable career that eventually led him here where his well educated and philosophical mind was offered to the public weekly. The column was called The Simple Raven’s Post and it was a deliberate twist that Raven is the letters Avner rearranged. His columns were influential and “spoke to the hearts of the people of his community.” He saw change was badly needed in our society. “He believed that as a collective humanity we needed to fundamentally change the way we were living, grasping back on to more simpler roots, and in his own words, “that is more beneficial to all”. It is worthwhile to read his obituary on-line. He had a huge career before here and he is sorely missed.

where for many years he could be found on every Saturday afternoon, along with Earl Scott, playing for the special dancing community that gathered there. A picture of him and my beloved sister Nancy singing together hangs on my office wall.

Another life well lived.

The Gresl name is well known in the Pass and Bob, son of Charles Gresl, and father to Captain Charles (Chuck) Gresl, an Operations Officer with 32 years of service, passed on August 12th. Bob’s father Charles was one of six brothers working in the Coalhurst Mine when it blew up in 1935. Three of them didn’t make it out. Bob’s father attempted to rescue his brothers in a mine which was full of gas, but it was too dangerous and to no avail. Bob himself worked at Phillips Cable for 20 years and then at Summit Lime Works for 27 years. I am the proud owner of two copies of History of the Summit Lime Works (2008) that Bob compiled. It is a complete and wonderfully detailed comprehensive history of this limestone quarry that dates back to 1905. A nice contribution to community, Bob. On August 10th Elizabeth Anne Sherrington passed at Peak to Pines. I visited her there several times and knew her well as a retired nurse. A delightful and open hearted woman, Liz shared stories with me about her amazing career. Liz took four year of general training at Canterbury, 18 months of post graduate in orthopedics and one year’s training in midwifery. She also took a year of dental training prior to her general training. Liz put 42 years of service in and never lost her love of nursing. She was always quick to correct me when I would say someone had passed.

She would insist that that was improper and the right thing was to say was that they had died. Period!

Liz’s very first opportunity at applying her skills occurred on Kangaroo Island, off the south coast of Australia, where she worked at a clinic that was quite inaccessible. If a doctor was required she was to call the mainland and he would come by boat. One day she got a call from a farmer stating that Emma had broken her leg and he was bringing her in. She felt she could handle this and, with the receiving area prepped, in walked a farmer with a pig in his arms. And yes Liz splinted that reluctant porcine. She was a magnificent human being and will be missed by many.

In and amongst these noted pioneers I have chosen to mention are dozens of people that slipped away throughout the year. They all had worth, a story and were loved by many.

Death does not take a holiday in December and in that month there are three that I took note of. On Dec 5th it was a shock to hear that Irene Matkowski, at age 68, was gone. It was astounding to learn that she had put in no less than 41 years with IGA and its previous owners as deli manager. That is huge and almost incomprehensible but Irene was a gracious and dedicated person who consistently ensured a quality product was given out. I learned she even grew her own parsley so that her presentations had a homemade feel to them. I remember her smile and her competent service.

Seven days later, on the 12th, it was Irene Elizabeth (Zeith) Hill, who had lived for 94 years, that was gone. I remember her well as a waitress at the Satellite Cafe (now the Taberna). She worked along with a gal named Peal Myslicki who I learned later was her sister. A 25 cent giant plate of fries served up by them at the Satellite was a true delight for us acne ridden teenagers. Irene loved animals and this was evident from her place on Blairmore Road which is adorned with figurines and statues. It is a deer haven, a place where they always felt safe.

At the end of the year, on Christmas Day, the good Lord chose to take Alberta Dase, at age 95. They wheeled her from extended care to Keith Krish’s room (her brother) in the hospital a little over a year ago just before he passed. She sang a native song in Czechoslovakian to him. She was the reason Brent Dase organized the amazing Cache the Pass events. To acknowledge all the AHS workers here in the Pass. Brent’s daily visits to Alberta at extended care where he observed the morale issue struggle drove him to create the wildest, most fun chase you could imagine. It was uplifting for all those AHS workers who joined this scavenger hunt free-for-all.

So there were many more than this select few that crossed over. As I said, everyone was important, everyone was loved and every one of them will always be remembered.

On May 8th a man born the same year as me passed. James Jim Hardy was a character I remember well from my student coal mining days. We were a team at Coleman Collieries B-Level Mine where I helped him run an electric supply car that caused us no amount of headaches. He was funny and hardworking and we took the job of getting supplies to the mechanical miners that gobbled up coal, seriously. When the supply car couldn’t make it up the slope we used a tugger (hoist) to take the timbers and other materials further up. It was air driven and would seize up with frost at times, which required pouring alcohol on the exposed cylinder. On one occasion Jimmy went outside for a jug of alcohol and while holding the jug decided to have a smoke outside. When he lit up, the alcohol fumes ignited and took his eyebrows and eyelashes off. It was a shocker to see him after and we laughed like hell. There were not to be cigarettes at B-Level but miners that rode the bus to this high mountain mine, hid them under their hats. A solid coal miner he was.

On July 4th Robert “Obie” O’Brien from Lundbreck chose to leave us after cancer stripped away his amazing mechanical skills and his remarkable talent as a musician. I was honoured to lead the service for him at the Hillcrest Miner’s Club,

Bob O’Brien and Nancy Kinnear in concert

18 - CROWSNEST PASS HERALD - Wednesday, January 15, 2025

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July 4, 1930 – January 6, 2025

OBITUARY

Alberta Eleanor Dase (Nee: Krish)

February 7, 1929 – December 25, 2024 It is with great sadness we announce that Alberta Dase of Coleman, AB passed away peacefully on December 25, 2024.

Alberta was born in Coleman, AB on February 7, 1929 to parents Laddie and Alma Krish. As a young lady, she met the love of her life, Edward Dase and together they raised a large family in their little house on the hill. Alberta loved the Crowsnest Pass and spent almost her entire life in the surroundings which she adored. If she wasn’t tending to her flowers, she could often be found enjoying creation and fishing in her favourite lakes and ponds. Alberta also spent countless hours sharing the hope that the Bible holds with her family and friends, of which she had many.

Alberta leaves behind a large, loving family that continues to grow and who will miss her dearly. In the words of her granddaughter and grandson, “She will be missed by everyone who met her. Genuinely such a special person”; “Good-bye Grandma.”

With respect for Alberta’s wishes, no services will be held at this time.

Condolences may be registered at www.fantinsfuneralchapel.ca.

It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Evelyn Mary Habdas on January 6, 2025. She was 94 years of age.

Mom was born in Coleman, AB on July 4, 1930 to William and Evelyn Hopkins. As a young woman, she married William “Cobbler” Habdas, and they went on to have many happy years together.

In addition to creating a warm & nurturing home for her family, Mom also worked outside of the home. Over her professional career, she was a receptionist for AGT and Drs. John and Joan Baum’s chiropractic clinic in The Crowsnest Pass and Pincher Creek. In her younger years, Mom enjoyed horseback riding. Throughout her life she was well-known for knitting and sewing – her talents in these areas will definitely be missed, and she loved to gamble. Hers was a life well-lived, and she will be remembered with love and respect. Rest in peace Mom. Left to mourn her passing and celebrate her life is her daughter, Brenda Hill; her grandchildren, Shane (Lilith), Harley (Michele), Amanda, Jaelyn and Tyler; her great-grandchildren, Allie, Avery, Jacie, and Rowan; her extended family; as well as many friends including Barbara Stone, Pete Sikina, Jude Ewashen, Norma Stuart, George Bester, Ed and Marilyn Gray, Christine and John and those at Peaks To Pines Senior Lodge.

She was predeceased by her husband, Cobbler; her son, Terry Habdas; her great-grandson, Lucas; her brother, Norman; and her son-in-law, Butch Hill.

With respect for Mary’s wishes, no services will be held. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations will be gratefully accepted by the Crowsnest Pass SPCA (PO Box 725 Blairmore, AB T0K 0E0). Condolences may be registered at www. fantinsfuneralchapel.ca.

Fantin’s Funeral Chapel entrusted with the arrangements. (403) 562-8555

19 - CROWSNEST PASS HERALD - Wednesday, January 15, 2025

20 - CROWSNEST PASS HERALD - Wednesday, January 15, 2025

Precious Metals Recycling Roadshow coming to

Pincher Creek & Crowsnest Pass

Terry Burrill is a precious metals buyer and President of TC Precious Metals Gold, Silver & Coin headquartered in Airdrie Alberta. Gold is reaching record high prices, and Silver remains very strong.

Then a cash offer is made, and you decide to sell or not.

“If you decide to sell after hearing the quote, great, but it’s also about information” says Burrill. “A lot of times people just need to know a ballpark price of what items are worth. There is no obligation and we don’t pressure anyone into selling.” That’s what sets us apart from the Quebec buyers, and their claim to pay the highest prices.

TC Precious Metals will be making its way through Western Canada. You can bring your gold, silver, coins and Canadian paper money to the venue each day.

TC Precious Metals has the unique advantage of dealing direct with a smelt. This allows us to cut out one or even two middlemen.

Cash in your old & broken

GOLD, SILVER, JEWELRY & COINS COME SEE US

Nearly half of the world’s annual gold Blairmore Lions Club harvest comes from recycled gold.

Energy costs are about $500 to mine a 12130 20th Ave new ounce of gold where recycled gold Mon & Tues • Jan 27 & 28 is about $10 per ounce. A result of this 10am-5pm is gold and silver purchased at the . shows and later smelted goes . back into the market with a Pincher Creek Elks Hall . lower environmental impact. 1047 Bev McLaughlin Dr

TC Precious Metals purchases gold and silver from the general public as well as other gold buyers, pawn shops, dentists, jewellers and jewellery makers.

Wed & Thurs • Jan 29 & 30

.

Out-of-fashion jewellery, 10am-4pm . single earrings, broken Terry has extensive . chains, unloved jewelry, experience working with . charm bracelets, dental estate executors, widows . gold, nuggets, fine gold and widowers in a respectful . and Sterling silver flatware sets are all accepted. Another valuable and caring manner. item is coins with silver content. Dimes, TC Precious Metals analyzes your gold, quarters, half dollars and dollars from Canada and America can be sorted and silver, coins and paper money while you watch, with the process explained the silver content determined in no time to you in detail. Coins with numismatic at all. People are encouraged to bring in any and all coins for assessment. (collectable) value are set aside from

No Obligation No pressure

those with a ‘melt’ value. Silver items such as jewelry and Sterling flatware are analyzed for hallmark identification.

Items thought to contain gold will also be analyzed for hallmarks, and then confirmed using precise testing that is done while you watch.

TC Precious Metals can assess and purchase Canadian and Dominion of Canada paper money.

No appointment required.

Free Analysis & Quote

WE PURCHASE Canadian Paper Money Platinum Earrings Bracelets Rings Gold Charms

Dental Gold Broken Chains Gold Nuggets Steling Silver Sterling Flatware COINS COINS COINS

Excecuters, Estate Sales & Coin Collectors Welcome Valid Goverment Photo ID required

TC

Precious Metals, Gold, Silver & Coins

1-844-394-GOLD (4653) Alberta Owned & Operated