Pass Herald - December 11, 2024

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Crowsnest Pass

Herald

Vol. 94 No. 47

December 11, 2024 $1.25

Serving our communities since 1930

Christmas in the Park

Nicholas L.M. Allen photos

Families and friends embraced the holiday spirit during Christmas in Coleman at Flumerfelt Park on December 8, enjoying festivities from 5 to 7 p.m.

2 - CROWSNEST PASS HERALD - Wednesday, December 11, 2024

Charity Checkstop

The Crowsnest Pass Fire Rescue (CNPFR) team and our peace officers hosted the 2024 Charity Checkstop on December 6, raising an impressive $8,144.95 and collecting 177 lbs of food in just three hours.

These contributions, along with the time and effort dedicated, will greatly support the work of the Crowsnest Pass Food Bank.

Photos by Nicholas L. M. Allen

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Wednesday, December 11, 2024 - CROWSNEST PASS HERALD - 3 Frank Slide Template.qxp_Layout 1 2023-01-30 11:44 AM Page 1

Minor Injuries Reported in Traffic Collision

Police Briefs

A minor collision earlier this month resulted in minor injuries. The incident is under investigation, and no charges have been laid at this time.

Uttering Threats Reported, No Charges Laid On December 5, a report of uttering threats was made to RCMP. Officers collected information, but no charges were filed.

Between December 2 and 9, the Crowsnest Pass Police Department responded to 55 calls for service, none of the calls were unfounded. There were are a total of 19 charges made during this period.

The calls included one non-fatal injury traffic collision, two reportable traffic collisions, 13 speeding violations, three other moving traffic violations, nine other non-moving traffic violations, one check stop, one Mental Health Act, one disturbing the peace, one breach of Prohibition order, six written traffic offence warnings, three victim services offered (declined), two victim services proactive referrals, one harassing communications, one uttering threats against a person, one theft from mail under $5000, one theft of other motor vehicle, two mischiefs, one fraud less than or equal to $5000, one business break and enter, one residence break and enter, one abandoned vehicle, one assist to the general public and one well-being check.

Check Stop Yields Positive Results RCMP conducted a check stop on December 7, focusing on traffic safety. Officers reported good compliance from drivers, with tickets and warnings issued where necessary.

Well-Being Check Finds No Issues RCMP responded to a well-being check earlier this month. The individual was located, and there were no concerns.

Attempted Break-and-Enter Reported An attempted break-and-enter was reported on December 3. Patrols were conducted, but no suspects were located. No entry was gained, and nothing was stolen.

DID YOU KNOW

Most dinosaurs lived to be more than 100 years old.

Intoxicated Individual Released When Sober RCMP detained an intoxicated individual on December 5 after a disturbance. The individual was released once sober and no further action was taken.

HWY #3, Frank • 562-8043

Neighbour Dispute Resolved Without Incident A dispute between neighbours was reported earlier this month. Police mediated the situation, which did not escalate further.

Attempted Break-and-Enter on December 6 Another attempted break-and-enter was reported on December 6. The suspect did not gain entry, and police continue to investigate.

Breach of Prohibition Under Investigation RCMP are investigating a breach of a no-contact order reported on December 9. The case remains active.

Fraudulent Phone Calls Reported On December 9, RCMP received reports of ongoing fraudulent phone scams. No funds were exchanged, but police urge the public to remain vigilant against such scams.

Traffic Enforcement Continues RCMP continue to focus on traffic enforcement throughout the region, issuing numerous tickets and warnings for violations such as speeding, running stop signs, and improper vehicle operation. Officers report that compliance among drivers remains high, contributing to safer roads.

Coal supporters file complaint against Headwaters Group NICHOLAS L.M ALLEN Pass Herald Reporter Citizens Supportive of Crowsnest Coal have formally filed a complaint against the Crowsnest Headwaters group, raising concerns over its failure to register with relevant authorities despite its outspoken opposition to resource development in the Crowsnest Pass. The complaint comes amid rising tensions surrounding the debate over coal mining in the region.

Carmen Linderman, spokesperson for Citizens Supportive of Crowsnest Coal, expressed satisfaction with the recent vote that showed overwhelming support for the return of coal mining to the Pass. “We are pleased that the vote passed with strong support and look forward to the return of coal mining to the Pass,” she said, underscoring the group’s stance on the economic benefits of mining for the community.

As of now, no official response has been received from the Crowsnest Headwaters group, which has remained largely silent on the issue. The controversy highlights the growing divide between groups advocating for economic development through resource extraction and those concerned with environmental preservation and sustainable land use in the Crowsnest Pass.

The outcome of the complaint and ongoing discussions will likely influence the future of resource development in the region.

Piikani Nation Chief statement regarding proposed testing The following can be attributed in whole or in part to Chief Troy Knowlton, Chief of the Piikani Nation. Chief Knowlton is not available for interviews today.

Piikani Chief and Council support the testing proposed by Northback. We neither support nor oppose the mine itself. We need to see and consider the results of testing before an informed decision can be made. Further, we understand that our members feel strongly about this issue – some for, and some against. That’s why, after we receive data from testing, we will subject this issue to a vote on the Nation. In the meantime, we fully support our citizens’ right to make their voices heard.

4 - CROWSNEST PASS HERALD - Wednesday, Deecember 11, 2024

NOTICE OF DEVELOPMENT PERMIT

NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING

LAND USE BYLAW No. 1165, 2023

THE PURPOSE of this bylaw is to close to public travel, create titles to and dispose of portions of a public roadway in accordance with section 22 of the Municipal Government Act, Revised Statutes of Alberta 2000, Chapter M-26, as amended.

THEREFORE, TAKE NOTICE THAT a public hearing to consider the proposed Bylaw No. 1208, 2024 will be held in the Municipality of Crowsnest Pass Council Chambers at 7:00 pm on January 14, 2025. Each person shall be allotted 5 minutes to present their position.

The Development Authority of the Municipality of Crowsnest Pass recently approved the following Discretionary or Development Application(s) with Variances: • DP2024-175 – 11414 19 Avenue, Blairmore (Lot(s) 34 Block 1 Plan 8010276) For an existing “Accessory Building or Use up to 72.8 m2” (Shed 10.42m2) (Permitted use) with a 25% variance to the west side yard setback.

• DP2024-190 – 13329 18 Avenue, Blairmore (Lot(s) 23 & Pt. 22 Block 5 Plan 3380T) For an existing “Accessory Building or Use up to 72.8 m2” (Garage 28.38m2) (Permitted use) with a 68% variance to the east side yard setback.

• DP2024-206 – 7726 269 Avenue, Coleman (Lot(s) 15 Block 3 Plan 1355LK) For an existing “Accessory Building or use” (Shed 1 – 2.67m2) (permitted use) with a 45% variance to the west side yard setback and; For an existing “Accessory Building or use” (Shed 2 – 3.61m2) (permitted use) • DP2024-238 – 8109 26 Avenue, Coleman (Lot(s) 1 Block 8 Plan 8211078) For existing “Accessory Buildings up to 72.8 m2” (Shed 9.6m2) (Gazebo 13m2) (permitted use) and; For an existing “Accessory Building” (Raised Deck) (permitted use) • DP2024-333 – 2302 77 Street, Coleman (Lot(s) 2 Block A Plan 1310378) For a “Short-Term Rental / Bed & Breakfast” (discretionary use) • DP2024-338 – 13245 17 Avenue, Blairmore (Lot(s) 19 & 20 Block 7 Plan 3380T) *Revision* For a “Single Detached Dwelling” with a “Secondary Suite - Attached” (Basement) – (permitted use) with a 15% variance to the front yard setback and a 6% variance to the height. This permit revokes DP2023-179

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 December 31 , 2024. 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 403-562-8833 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 27th day of November 2024.

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

Crowsnest Pass Seniors Housing Board Parks and Recreation Advisory Committee

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. � 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 The Municipality does not retain applications. If you are interested in volunteering, please resubmit your application.

Any persons claiming to be adversely affected by the above Discretionary Development Permits or Variances may file an appeal by December 26, 2024, 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

NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING MUNICIPALITY OF CROWSNEST PASS IN THE PROVINCE OF ALBERTA PROPOSED BYLAW NO. 1208, 2024 7:00pm, January 14, 2025 Municipality of Crowsnest Pass Council Chambers 8502 – 19 Avenue, Coleman PURSUANT to sections 22, 216.4, and 606 of the Municipal Government Act, Revised Statutes of Alberta 2000, Chapter M-26, as amended, notice is hereby given that the Council of the Municipality of Crowsnest Pass in the Province of Alberta will consider a bylaw to close a portion of a roadway located in Coleman, as legally described and depicted in the sketch below.

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, December 11, 2024 - CROWSNEST PASS HERALD - 5

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6 - CROWSNEST PASS HERALD - Wednesday, December 11, 2024

Herald Editorial LISA SYGUTEK The permanent residents of the Municipality of Crowsnest Pass delivered a clear and decisive message in the Grassy Mountain plebiscite: this community supports metallurgical coal mining. As stewards of this mandate, Council has a responsibility to ensure the Northback Grassy Mountain project reflects our community’s priorities of economic growth, environmental stewardship, and long-term sustainability.

To that end, Council recently attended Elk Valley Resources’ (EVR) annual Water Quality Open House. The event highlighted EVR’s decade-long effort to manage selenium levels in the Elk Valley, a challenge intrinsic to coal mining. What we learned is inspiring: significant progress has been made, and the tools and strategies used in the Elk Valley offer valuable insights for the successful development of Grassy Mountain.

Proven Progress in the Elk Valley EVR has made significant progress implementing the Elk Valley Water Quality Plan, developed in 2014, with selenium levels stabilizing and reducing downstream of water treatment. Selenium, a naturally occurring element in rock, can leach into waterways during mining operations. Left unmanaged, it can pose risks to aquatic life at higher levels. However, EVR’s investment of over $1.4 billion into advanced treatment technologies has turned this challenge into a success story.

Currently, four state-of-the-art water treatment facilities operate in the Elk Valley, capable of treating over 75 million litres of water daily. By 2027, EVR plans to expand this capacity to 150 million litres per day with five additional facilities under construction.

EVR indicated that these investments have yielded measurable improvements: • Selenium levels downstream of the Elk Valley mines have stabilized and are decreasing—levels are below the regulatory limit of 19 micrograms per litre which is set to be environmentally protective at the first permitted compliance location downstream of all EVR operations in the Elk Valley • Fish tissue monitoring consistently shows selenium concentrations well below harmful thresholds, with no significant health impacts on fish or their ecosystems.

These results underscore the effectiveness of EVR’s approach, demonstrating that modern mining can achieve both economic and environmental goals.

Adopting These Strategies for Grassy Mountain The Elk Valley’s success provides a clear blueprint for how Northback could develop the Grassy Mountain project responsibly. By incorporating proven water treatment technologies, engaging stakeholders early, and committing to transparent monitoring, Grassy Mountain could achieve similarly impressive results.

Unlike EVR, which has had to address legacy mining issues, Grassy Mountain represents a clean slate.

A chance to proactively design a new mine that integrates selenium management from the outset. By taking this forward looking approach, Northback could avoid the pitfalls of the past while setting a new standard for responsible mining.

Northback has already committed to adhering to stringent environmental standards. Drawing from the Elk Valley’s $1.4 billion investment model, Grassy Mountain can confidently address concerns like selenium contamination while securing long-term economic benefits to our community.

For the residents of Crowsnest Pass, this project is more than just mining, it’s about revitalizing our local economy while safeguarding the natural environment

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.

that defines our community. With millions of dollars in projected economic benefits and the potential for hundreds of high-paying jobs, Grassy Mountain represents an opportunity to strengthen the region while embracing the highest standards of sustainability.

A Future Built on Balance The lessons from the Elk Valley show that it is possible to balance economic development with environmental protection. Responsible mining isn’t about choosing between jobs and the environment, it’s about finding solutions that support both. The successes in the Elk Valley remind us that progress is achievable when science, innovation, and collaboration come to-

gether.

For Crowsnest Pass, the Grassy Mountain project is a chance to demonstrate this balance. By applying the proven strategies from the Elk Valley, Northback could ensure Grassy Mountain becomes a legacy project, one that respects our community’s values, fulfills the plebiscite mandate, and secures a sustainable future for generations to come.

Let’s seize this opportunity to lead with purpose, ensuring that Crowsnest Pass continues to thrive as a community rooted in tradition yet open to innovation.

Together, we can make Grassy Mountain a shining example of modern, responsible mining that benefits both our economy and our environment.

For instance, a government-funded health hub, Evolving beyond coal specializing say, in hip and knee replacements, would

JACQUELINE L. CHALMERS Claresholm Dear Editor; Coal mining consumes a lot of water. A 2021 Univer Recently, a community gasping for air voted in a non-binding referendum to approve open pit coal mining. This is a losing proposition; water will be poisoned and air polluted. A professional lobbying group, influenced by offshore Aussie support, promised a path to prosperity. Coal is a sunset industry, one that will, in a decade or so, leave the community in tatters once again.

In the alternative Crowsnest Pass would benefit greatly from a leg up by our government helping them launch into initiatives that will ensure long term employment and sustainability.

Clearly CNP citizens love their community. A promise of employment opportunities, a living wage, lower taxes, benefit and retirement plans as well as career advancement would be welcome news. The provincial government has promised public sector workers, like doctors and nurses, all these perks. The government could provide a strategy implementing similar initiatives for businesses in the private sector in our struggling smaller communities. Financial investment, coupled with passion, energy and optimism in creating and building a strong community hub on a bustling transportation route, could prove fruitful.

provide the opportunity for a real and significant economic boost. The Crowsnest Pass Health Centre is fully functioning with the initial necessary infrastructure and it’s closer than Kalispell, Montana. With no shortage of patients there will be multiple employment opportunities for surgeons to maintenance staff. There would be meaningful work; well rewarded, in both the public and the private sector. Some of the off-shoot businesses would be accommodation, restaurants, recreational activities for visitors and residents, development of boutique-style retail as well as big-box shopping and more.

With a provincial government focused on the future, and ponying up with funding, the community would grow, evolve and increase their tax base. Tax dollars would be available for needed and wanted infrastructure. Training and programs could be developed specifically investing in the young, the old and others in between. Affordable housing would be key.

So many mountain resort areas are out of reach financially for the general populace. With a dynamic Town Council and Chamber of Commerce, focusing on inclusion and affordability, CNP will shine. There are so many natural assets out the back door. The Pass would be the southern gateway known for warm and welcoming hospitality for a visit or to settle down.

Livingstone Macleod MLA, Chelsae Petrovic, parliamentary Secretary to Health Minister Adriana LaGrange may be very helpful in advancing the vision.

Recruit them to help

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Wednesday, December 11, 2024 - CROWSNEST PASS HERALD - 7

Sinister Sports expands east NICHOLAS L.M. ALLEN Crowsnest Pass Reporter Sinister Sports, known for organizing some of Canada’s most challenging endurance races, has announced plans to expand its signature events to Ontario in 2025. The new races, SOO 200 and the Blue Bully Ultra, are set to offer unique challenges and showcase the rugged beauty of Ontario’s landscapes, reflecting the continued growth and success of the Sinister Sports brand.

Scheduled for July 21-25, 2025, the SOO 200 will be only the second 200-mile race in Canada, following Sinister Sports’ Divide 200. The four-day event will take participants through the Canadian Shield and along the rugged coastal terrain of Lake Superior.

Competitors will start 150 km north of Sault Ste. Marie, arriving at the start line via the Agawa Canyon Tour Train, a popular local attraction that showcases stunning scenery. From there, racers will traverse the rocky shores of Lake Superior, head inland toward the trails south of the Montreal River, and finish at the Bush Plane Museum on the riverfront in Sault Ste. Marie.

Brian Gallant, owner and director of Sinister Sports, emphasized the significance of the route: “This race allows us to highlight the outstanding heritage of the city and the best attractions of the Algoma area to the north.”

The second new event, the Blue Bully Ultra, will take place from October 3-5, 2025, at Blue Mountain Resort. The race will span three days, beginning with a short evening run on Friday, followed by a 50-km race on Saturday and a half-marathon on Sunday. Prizes will be awarded each day, and overall awards will be given to the top three men and women who compete across all three days.

The course will feature the rugged trails and elevation of the Niagara Escarpment, offering a mix of flowy terrain and challenging climbs. Gallant praised Blue Mountain Resort’s venue, describing it as having a “European ski village vibe” with a welcoming atmosphere and ample amenities.

The decision to expand to Ontario was strategic.

While Sinister Sports is deeply rooted in Alberta, the province’s endurance racing scene has grown increasingly crowded, with events nearly every weekend from spring to fall. Additionally, permitting challenges in British Columbia have made expansion westward difficult.

Looking east, Gallant consulted with a former location scout for the television series Mantracker, who recommended Sault Ste. Marie as an ideal location.

“When we were looking at new locations, we decided that a big event, like a 200-miler, would have to be farther afield,” said Gallant. “Ontario offers an incredible variety of landscapes and trails that are perfect for endurance athletes.”

Sinister Sports has grown from humble beginnings into one of Canada’s premier endurance race organizers. The expansion to Ontario reflects the company’s ambition to bring its unique style—dubbed the “Sinister Sauce”—to a wider audience.

Gallant attributes the brand’s success to its dedicated team and commitment to high standards. “At each race we host, we get comments like ‘best organized race I’ve been to anywhere’ and ‘the best community of people,’” he said. Despite this growth, the company remains rooted in its grassroots origins, emphasizing a professional yet approachable style.

Cont’d on page 18

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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

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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,

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COLEMAN LAND promising piece of development land.

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8 - CROWSNEST PASS HERALD - Wednesday, December 11, 2024

Chasing Clouds and Light The Photography of Thomas and Lena Gushul JOHN KINNEAR Crowsnest Pass Reporter I had the privilege recently to view the rough draft of a very special book that will be launched in January. It is a collaborative effort between the Crowsnest Museum and Vic Bergman and is destined to become the definitive work on the Gushul photographic legacy. And legacy it is. Much of the early history of the Crowsnest Pass was captured by these two amazing Ukrainian immigrants, who opened their first studio in East Coleman (Bushtown) in 1918 and a second in Blairmore in 1922.

Right up until the early 1960’s they, along with their talented son Evan, continued to capture moments in time that provide an invaluable record of our blended communities.

The concept for this book started taking shape as far back as 2015 when Bergman experimented with what he calls repeat photography. That is to say photographs of the same subject taken at the same location at different times. In his case he chose one of six men posing by a coal screener at the Mohawk Tipple that had been taken by Thomas Gushul in 1945. Vic decided to recreate the platform in the tipple that Gushul worked from in order to be able to match the photo positioning with a modern shot. He then blended both past and present photos into a lovely repeat. This journey more or less drew him deeper into the world of the Gushuls and the concept of a book on their remarkable story formed in his mind. It led him to write a sample chapter and approach the museum, who gave him the go ahead in 2017. Thus began seven years of researching their story and locating, scanning and cleaning up and restoring many of the 60,000 prints and negatives that make up their invaluable collection. Glass plates with scratches and a lot of what photographers refer to as “noise” was photographically repaired or removed. Vic chose to start the book’s photography story in the Pass with profiles of a myriad of early itinerant photographers that preceded the Gushuls and then weave his way through Thomas and Lena’s story of immigration and seizing opportunity. It was a daunting task, one that required designing chapters on different cultural captures and then filtering through the photos to pick the most iconic ones. This process went from 2500 to 1200 to eventually the final 275 that he felt spoke to each chapters exploration. Whether it was weddings, musicians, special events, iconic scenery or disasters, the Gushul camera masterfully captured, in high quality, their essence.

If not for Thomas Gushul recognizing the huge significance of the Hillcrest Mine Disaster we would not have those oh so important images of Canada’s worst mining disaster as it unfolded. The stories in the book of how they applied their high standards to imagery are quite remarkable. Whether it was Evan sitting in a field with his paints making sure the colorized version of a scenery shot was accurate or Thomas driving to the same spot week after week to get that perfect blend of light and clouds, there was no compromise. As a mining historian I found that Thomas’s spectacular capture of the Greenhill entry to be an important shot, one that demonstrated the technique of light painting.

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

By all reports Lena was also an excellent photographer and as it turns out took the very last shot ever in their Blairmore studio, it being one of the Del Rays Band.

Alas not one photo of hers has her signature on it but Vic has done his best to acknowledge how important she was to the family business.

This compilation, that has taken thousands of hours to bring together, is definitely a labour of love. The museum is now taking preorders for this 9 by 12 beautifully bound, with dust jacket, must have book. All proceeds from the book go to the museum only.

Author’s Note: I was given the honor of contributing the preface to Vic’s book and historian and author Ian McKenzie wrote the prologue. Last Monday, December 9th, was the one year anniversary of the loss of an amazing woman who was principle in editing Vic’s 245 pages of text for the book. She applied her meticulous talent and command of the English language to Vic’s work, making sure it was the best it could be. I know that Isabel Russell is looking down now and proud to have been a part of such an important work. The museum has posted a 4-minute video on YouTube on the book and Vic himself has a great write up on the book on his own website- vicbergman.com. This book would make a wonderful gift to friends or family, be they here or abroad.

Top photo: Greenhill entry using light painting Bottom photo: Gushul book front cover.

Photos courtesy Crowsnest Museum

Wednesday, December 11, 2023 - CROWSNEST PASS HERALD - 9

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10 - CROWSNEST PASS HERALD - Wednesday, December 11, 2024

Christmas around the world It’s beginning to look a lot like Christmas all over the world. Christmas celebrations include various time-honoured traditions that celebrants hold near and dear to their hearts. Depending on where someone lives, their Christmas traditions may look quite different from those in other parts of the globe.

It can enjoyable to learn how Christmas is celebrated elsewhere and perhaps even incorporate a few new traditions into your celebrations. Take a peek at these customs near and far. · Seafood and beachside celebrations: Australia is located in the southern hemisphere, which means Aussies are enjoying the peak of their summer come December 25. A white Christmas is unlikely, unless the “white” refers to white, sandy beaches. Santa is probably swapping his thick coat for a pair of board shorts, and heavy, roast-laden meals are unlikely to make it on to the menu. Instead, Australians dine on seafood feasts and spend Christmas outdoors camping or at the beach. · Krampus parade: Some Christmas elves are not

Campaign so jolly. Just ask residents of the Austrian, German and Hungarian Alps. Each year in this region, a true “Bad Santa” is the talk of town. Villagers believed that Krampus, a half-man, half-goat creature with a legion of ill-tempered elves, roamed the mountains wreaking havoc. Krampus was said to abduct miscreants and set unruly youth or even intoxicated adults straight. Today, Krampus is more the “bad cop” to Santa’s “good cop” persona. Krampus is celebrated as an anti-hero at parades and other events. · Las Posadas: According to scripture, Joseph and Mary had to make an arduous journey from their hometown to Bethlehem for census purposes while Mary was pregnant. When the couple arrived, they found lodgings were non-existent, and Mary ended up giving birth to Jesus in a manger surrounded by animals. In celebration of that journey, people in Mexico and Guatemala celebrate Las Posadas, a procession representing Mary and Joseph’s journey and their struggle to find lodging. · La Befana: In Italian folklore, La Befana is a witch-like old woman who, like Santa, delivers gifts to children throughout Italy. Instead of this gift-giving taking place on Christmas, La Befana hands out gifts on the Epiphany Eve in a similar way to how the Three Magi brought presents to Baby Jesus. Le Befana also is believed to fly through the night sky to sweep away all the troubles of the old year and clear the way for a

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fresh start. · Move over reindeer: Although reindeer often garner fanfare this time of year, the Yule goat is a Christmas symbol and tradition in Scandinavia and northern Europe. Each year in towns throughout Sweden and other areas, large statues of Yule goats are built on the first day of Advent and stand throughout the holiday season. This tradition dates back to ancient Pagan festivals, and some believe the goat is connected to the Norse god Thor, who rode in the sky in a chariot pulled by two goats.

Holiday traditions differ considerably in various regions of the world. Celebrants may want to consider incorporating foreign traditions into their own Christmas celebrations this year.

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Wednesday, December 11, 2024 - CROWSNEST PASS HERALD - 11

How to shop on a budget The holiday season is filled with activities and steeped in tradition. The magic does not end when Thanksgiving, Christmas or Chanukah have come and gone. While people mark off the days until they can count down the hours on New Year’s Eve, another event between Christmas Day and December 31 merits attention as well.

Boxing Day is celebrated in Great Britain, Canada and British Commonwealth nations like Australia and New Zealand. The holiday originated in the United Kingdom but other European nations have since embraced it. Boxing Day coincides with the Christian holiday Saint Stephen’s Day, which is considered the second day of Christmas. St. Stephen was a deacon the Apostles ordained to take care of widows and the indigent.

Boxing Day dates back to 1871, according to Love to Know, and came about as a custom for tradesmen and women to collect “Christmas boxes” of money or presents on the first weekday after Christmas in exchange for good service throughout the year. Many workers, particularly household servants, had to work on Christmas Day, so Boxing Day provided an oppor-

Campaign tunity for them to visit with their own families. The workers took home boxes filled with foods and other gifts. In the U.K., Boxing Day is a government-mandated holiday. If it falls on a weekend, then the holiday will be observed on the following Monday. Schools and many organizations are closed on this day. Stores tend to be open, as Boxing Day sales are very popular.

As with most events, Boxing Day features some notable customs. · Workers, especially those in service positions, are honored. It’s customary to give a financial gift to people who provide services throughout the year. This includes mail carriers, sanitation workers, hair stylists, and others. · Contribute to the less fortunate. People often donate food to local food banks and support charities. · Watch or attend sporting events. Boxing Day also is marked by sporting events like horse racing and football, with the U.K. often hosting a full day of Premier League games.

Head to the stores. Boxing Day is similar to Black Friday in the United States. Boxing Day is filled with slashed prices and bargains for shoppers who are eager to spend holiday gift cards. · Meet up with friends and families. On Boxing Day, friends frequently get together to socialize and go out for dinner or drinks.

Boxing Day is celebrated the day after Christmas and provides a chance to continue the merriment of the holiday season.

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· Take a chilly swim. Some individuals enjoy participating in Polar Plunges to raise money for charities.

One annual event features people jumping into the English Channel, and similar plunges are held elsewhere.

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12 - CROWSNEST PASS HERALD - Wednesday, December 11, 2024

Decorative items to add to your Christmas home

It’s easy to recognize the holiday season has arrived. Holiday-centric sights and sounds abound this time of year. In fact, the arrival of decorations in stores seemingly comes earlier and earlier each year, perhaps to accommodate people’s undying enthusiasm for the holiday season.

Decorating a home or business for the holidays involves some familiar items, but this is a time of year when people can truly make the holidays their own. With that in mind, here are some considerations for decorations and other trinkets that can add a lot of cheer to this already festive time of year. · Wreaths: Wreaths are one of the simplest ways to dress up windows, doors or other areas of a home. These decorative items can be made from various materials.

Evergreen boughs are one of the more traditional, but there’s also colorful garlands, flowers or even ribbon that can be wrapped to make a wreath. · Lights: Lights are integral parts of both Christian and Jewish holiday celebrations. Lights adorn homes to represent Christ being the Light of the World. In Judaism, the lighting of eight candles for Chanukah represents how a small amount of Temple oil miraculously burned for eight days and nights. Filling a home with artificial lights or candles adds a festive touch to dark winter evenings. · Advent calendar: While it is called an advent calendar and traditionally ties into the time preceding Christmas, anyone can utilize an advent “countdown” calendar as they anticipate the arrival of Christmas Day. There are different iterations of advent calendars, from chocolate calendars to decorative ones featuring doors behind which there are whimsical figurines. Kids may even want to get involved in making homemade calendars. · Poinsettias: Poinsettias come in a variety of colors, but red is the hue of choice for

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Campaign holiday decorating. Perhaps surprisingly. poinsettias are tropical plants. The “flowers” you see on the plants aren’t flowers at all. They’re modified leaves called bracts. If you take good care of poinsettias, they even can be planted outdoors for the summer. · Boughs and branches: One of the easiest ways to add a festive touch to a home for the holidays is with items that likely can be scavenged from outdoors. Take a hike and gather some evergreen boughs, tree branches, pine cones, and holly sprigs, which can be turned into garlands, wreaths or centerpieces. With a little white speckle paint, you can give them a snow-covered look.

Decorating for the holidays is a popular tradition and one that can make spaces even more festive to enjoy. Various items can enhance the ambiance and set the scene for the joyous weeks to come.

Wednesday, December 11, 2024 - CROWSNEST PASS HERALD - 13

Livingstone Range School Division update FRANK MCTIGHE Contributor

SCHOOL DIVISION DEFICIT LOWER THAN BUDGETED Livingstone Range School Division finished its fiscal year with a smaller deficit than anticipated.

A review of the audited financial statements last week revealed a $188,224 deficit as of Aug. 31, which is $266,274 lower than budgeted.

Livingstone Range director of finance Jordan Gunderson presented a summary of the audited financial statements to trustees during their Nov. 26 meeting at the G.R. Davis Administration Building in Fort Macleod.

The school board’s audit committee, which includes chair Lori Hodges, trustee Carla Gimber and public member Martha Ratcliff and Gunderson, met with KPMG, the school division’s auditor.

The audited financial statements were reviewed and a report prepared for the Nov. 26 board meeting.

Gunderson began with a summary of the school division’s financial position.

“Our statement of financial position gives us a snapshot of what the division looked like as of Aug. 31, 2024,” Gunderson said.

The school division had net assets totalling $9.4-million on Aug. 31, compared to $9.59-million in 2023.

Gunderson told trustees that difference of $188,224 is less than the budgeted amount of $454,498.

“It’s in line with the deficit we had planned,” Gunderson said.

Livingstone Range has $5,488,330 of its net assets tied up in capital.

It has operating reserves totalling $1,710,432 and capital reserves of $2,203,883.

Gunderson moved on to the statement of operations, which showed the school division budgeted for revenue totalling $55.8-million but received $57.2-million, a difference of $1,323,411.

Expenses were budgeted to be $56,353,806 but were actually $57,410,943, a difference of $1,057,137.

That left Livingstone Range with a deficit of $188,224, which is less than the budgeted deficit of $454,498 by $266,274.

Livingstone Range spent $42,512,778 on instructions, $8,789,812 on maintenance and $3,478,207 on transportation.

Trustees approved the audited financial statements.

SCHOOL BOARD CANDIDATES AND RECORD CHECKS Criminal record checks may be required for Livingstone Range School Board candidates.

Trustees gave first reading last week to a by-law that would require candidates to provide a criminal record check.

“I think it would be prudent for us to pass first reading and allow feedback from the public,” trustee Brad Toone said.

Toone made the motion for first reading during the school board’s Nov. 26 meeting at the G.R. Davis Administration Building in Fort Macleod.

The Municipal Affairs Statutes Amendment Act changed local election rules and processes to require criminal record checks for local candidates.

Anyone who wants to comment on the by-law can do so by e-mailing engage@ lrsd.ab.ca by Dec. 13.

The by-law must be finalized before the end of the year, so trustees will consider second and third readings during their Dec. 17 meeting.

Toone said since the school board represents children, it is important to require criminal record checks from candidates.

“I really feel strongly this should be in place for our upcoming election,” Toone said.

School board vice-chair Lacey Poytress asked for information about obtaining criminal record checks for the next meeting.

Trustee Clara Yagos noted it is sometimes difficult to get people to run for school board.

Yagos was concerned a criminal record check would be another barrier in getting candidates.

Poytress agreed with Yagos that trustees don‘t work directly with children in their work on school board, and that the timing of getting a criminal record check done might be a barrier.

“While I understand trustee Toone’s sentiment, I am not sure there are any benefits to this,” Poytress said.

Trustee Kathy Charchun said someone who has a criminal record for a youthful or long-past in-discretion may not want that information to be public, and will not seek election as a result.

Trustee Carla Gimber said there are many unanswered questions on how the information that a candidate has a criminal record will be disclosed.

Gimber noted that if school division employees need criminal record checks, trustees should too.

People have months to apply for a criminal record check in advance of a school board election.

“I think at this point in time I would be more inclined to say yes and vote in favour,” Gimber said.

Deputy superintendent Richard Feller noted teachers are required to provide a new criminal record check every five years, and to let administration know if there is a change.

In other election readiness business, associate superintendent of business services Jeff Perry presented a by-law to allow for additional locations to accept nomination papers.

Perry said if additional nomination locations are not established, candidates will have to travel to central office in Fort Macleod.

In a large geographical jurisdiction such as Livingstone Range, that can create hardship for potential candidates.

“What we’ve done in the past is chosen one school in each of the communities,” Perry said.

School administrative assistants are deputized by the returning officer so they can receive nominations.

Trustees gave all three readings to the by-law.

TRUSTEES FINALIZE PERSONAL MOBILE DEVICE POLICY Trustees last week finalized a new policy governing the use of personal devices and social media in schools.

Trustees gave second and third reading to Policy 24 during their Nov. 26 meeting at the G.R. Davis Administration Building in Fort Macleod.

Policy 24 acknowledges there is a place for technology in schools and classrooms when used properly.

“The board recognizes that limiting personal mobile devices in schools helps to maximize learning and supports educational outcomes for children, supports student mental health, reduces opportunities for cyberbullying and helps mitigate negative impacts of excessive exposure to social media among children and youth,” the policy states.

“Digital citizenship is key to helping students learn to use available technology responsibly to enable them to reach their full potential as learners.”

Trustees gave first reading to the policy on Aug. 22 and then circulated it to school councils and administrators for feedback.

The new procedure has been implemented in Livingstone Range schools.

“It’s working out well so I think we need to get this policy in place right away,” school board vice-chair Lacey Poytress said.

Trustee Brad Toone favoured adopting the policy without any changes.

“I’m looking forward to having a full year to get the information and the data to look at this again,” Toone said.

Toone said it is important to keep the policy consistent since the procedures are in place at schools.

“We know that implementing anything across the division is going to be a challenge,” Toone said. “I look forward to having more discussions about this in the future.”

Trustee Kathy Charchun agreed with Toone that discussions she has had with people centre around the different rules for junior and senior high students.

“In the end they say they like it, and to carry on,” Charchun said. “It’s just been a short period of time. The feedback is positive, let’s just carry on.”

The policy gives school staff the “right and authority to temporarily confiscate, restrict and/or prohibit personal mobile device usage while individuals are on school property and/or in attendance at school sponsored activities.”

Students in Kindergarten to Grade 8 are not be in possession of a personal mobile device during the school day.

Students are to store personal mobile devices in a locker where available or according to the school plan.

The exceptions are when a diagnosed health or medical reason where a physician has confirmed the need for personal mobile device use in the school.

Another exception is when an individualized educational support as approved by the administration or school learning support team in consultation with the legal guardian and where appropriate, the student.

Students in Grade 9-12 are not to have a personal mobile device during class time. They are to store the device in their lockers.

The same exceptions for Kindergarten to Grade 8 students are in place for Grade 9-12.

Grade 9-12 students can also use their personal mobile device for a specific educational task or purpose when given permission by the teacher.

The policy states that teachers are to serve as good role models for students when it comes to using a personal mobile device.

BUSING CHANGES CHALLENGING FOR DIVISION Picking up more students on bus routes made for a bumpy ride to start the new school year.

But Livingstone Range School Division continues to safely bus 1,787 students daily to and from school.

Transportation director Rick Visser and administrative assistant Michelle Hedley made a presentation to the school board during its Nov. 26 meeting at the G.R. Davis Administration Building in Fort Macleod.

Visser told trustees Livingstone Range implemented the government’s new distance qualifica-tions.

“They actually come into effect next year but we went ahead because we had planned for them this year,” Visser said of the province delaying implementation for a year.

Cont’d on page 14

14 - CROWSNEST PASS HERALD - Wednesday, December 11, 2024

Division update cont’d from page 13 The province mandated school boards must provide transportation for Kindergarten to Grade 6 students who live at least one kilometre from school.

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

Visser said projections indicated Livingstone Range would have 550 students qualified to ride the bus, but that number reached 563.

Of that number, 391 of the 563 are riding the bus, or about 70 per cent of those eligible. That’s in line with provincial projections.

Visser said the division is still receiving inquiries about busing. Students added after Sept. 30 do not qualify for government funding this year.

The change to busing qualifications meant Livingstone Range had to add three bus routes, including one each in Crowsnest Pass, Pincher Creek and Claresholm.

Staff had to redesign some routes to accommodate the in-town pick-ups and change the size of buses on some routes.

“Overall, we got through that but we did have some challenges,” Visser said.

Hedley told trustees those challenges include complaints from families that have children of different ages, so some get bused and others don’t.

“That poses a real problem for people,” Hedley said. “They don’t understand why.”

Other families have complained the in-town bus stop is too far away from their homes.

“We specifically designed those in-town bus stops to be as fair to all the kids that are in that qualifying distance,” Hedley said.

Hedley said the department received hundreds of calls and messages from families at the start of the year expressing their concerns.

“We very diligently tried to answer every one of those people,” Hedley said.

“Sometimes it took us a few days because of the backlog.”

Changes had to be made to bus stops in the Crowsnest Pass because the buses were becoming too full to accommodate all of the children.

In some areas the buses now pick up the elementary school students first, drop them off, and then return to pick up the high school students.

Problems with the computer system, unexpected construction in the Crowsnest Pass and a driver taking a leave of absence also created challenges.

Visser told trustees that two new drivers were into their training when they decided to withdraw.

Despite that, Livingstone Range had enough drivers to start the year and has kept up with all the routes.

“We do have quite a few more resumes coming in on a daily basis,” Visser said.

“I just wish we could get more in the Crowsnest Pass.”

Livingstone Range is looking at hiring a new driver with experience as a trainer so the division can do its own training without relying on other facilities.

The addition of the new in-town routes has brought a rise in the number of motorists who don’t stop when the school bus is stopped and its red lights are flashing.

Twenty-four incidents have been reported since school started. A number of charges have been laid.

“The RCMP have been very helpful,” Visser said, noting a conviction carries a $572 fine. If the person challenges the ticket in court and loses, that comes with six demerit points.

The transportation department continues to work to keep rides as short as possible for students.

The following breakdown was provided: Crowsnest Pass — Five hundred and 30 students ride the bus with the shortest ride three minutes and the longest one hour and six minutes.

Hedley told trustees the department is preparing its grant application to Alberta Education.

Alberta Education uses the number of students riding the bus and the distance each travels to determine funding.

School board chair Lori Hodges thanked Visser and Hedley for the presentation and for the work the department does.

DIVISION MAKES MENTAL HEALTH A PRIORITY Livingstone Range School Division continues to make mental health and wellness a priority.

Holly Stewart, a registered psychologist and clinical team lead in Livingstone Range, updated trustees on the work during the Nov. 26 school board meeting.

Stewart began her presentation by thanking trustees and administration for making mental health a priority in Livingstone Range.

Stewart said this time of stress and hardships is evident in students, staff and families.

“It’s really important to recognize that the mental health and overall wellness of our students is essential if we are truly to support their learning, their growth, their achievement — both academically and socially,” Stewart said.

Stewart talked about the goal of the Family School Liaison Counsellor Program, which is to effect positive change in the lives of students, their families, and school staff.

That is achieved by direct counselling services; consultation, collaboration and advocacy; and proactive and preventative programming.

Livingstone Range has 12 family school liaison counsellors and three full-time mental health therapists.

Five schools have a full-time family school liaison counsellor with part-time allocations at the other schools.

Stewart told trustees the top issues family school liaison counsellors respond to are related to stress, pressure and worry.

Emotion regulation and behavioural concerns are frequent issues. Students also

seek support for self-esteem and self-concept, as well as identity.

Family school liaison counsellors also address a high number of concerns with mood disruption, which presents as sadness, low energy and depression Alongside the mood disruption, family school liaison counsellors frequently see self-harm and suicidal ideation.

“Given these challenges, our interventions often focus on mental health education,” Stewart said, which includes knowing when it is time to seek out extra support.

There is also an emphasis on coping with stress, anxiety and emotion regulation.

This includes day-to-day strategies students can use to help themselves feel better.

Family school liaison counsellors help students with peer relationships, and building character and self-esteem, “Unfortunately, a significant portion of our work is on crisis response,” Stewart said. “This includes conducting various types of risk assessments and safety planning.”

Last year, family school liaison counsellors provided direct counselling service to 581 students or 16 per cent of the total student population in Livingstone Range.

Top concerns included social relationships, anxiety, trauma, ADHD and suicidal behaviour.

In response, counselling focused on stress management, coping strategies, anxiety reduction, emotion regulation, and fostering healthy relationships.

Family school liaison counsellors made 129 group or classroom presentations in the area of prevention, an increase of 50 over the previous year.

The presentations addressed mental health and wellness; healthy relationships, social skills, self-concept and acceptance.

Stewart told trustees work continues on data collection in the areas of suicide-related inquiries; risk assessment; Child and Family Service involvement; welfare checks; and drug and alcohol-related incidents.

Of the 383 reported incidents, 131 involved suicide self-injury, and 108 were risk assessments.

The majority of suicide and self-harm incidents involved female students, while the majority of risk assessments involved male students.

Of the 131 reported incidents, 81 were suicidal risk.

Stewart told trustees the data also showed Grade 9 students were struggling much more than their peers in other grades.

“This insight is valuable as it allows us to target our proactive and preventative programming,” Stewart said.

Of the 108 risk assessments, three were serious, 20 were substantive and 83 were transient with no real concerns.

Stewart told trustees the Mental Health In Schools Pilot Program grant, which funded two therapist positions, was extended until the end of this year.

Livingstone Range also implemented the Integrated Student Support Program at W.A. Day school in Fort Macleod with funding from the Calgary Police Youth Foundation.

W.A. Day school was allocated a full-time mental health therapist as a result.

SCHOOL DIVISION WORKING TO SUPPORT STUDENTS Livingstone Range School Division is working to provide students who are struggling academically with the support they need.

One of the ways the learning services team is doing that is by providing staff with up-to-date and easy to understand information from which plans can be made.

Deputy superintendent Richard Feller, director of learning Lisa Furukawa and early learning and inclusive learning coach Leanne Feller appeared as a delegation at the school board’s Nov. 26 meeting at the G.R. Davis Administration Building in Fort Macleod.

They showed trustees results from provincial achievement tests that identify areas of strength, as well as areas of concern.

Trustees also viewed the results from the Early Years Teacher Assessment and Evaluation, as well as the Alberta Literacy and Numeracy Screening Assessments.

Using those results, central office, school administration and teachers are able to identify areas where supports are needed.

Richard Feller referred trustees to the Alberta Education Assurance Measures overall summary.

“It clearly identifies some areas of concern as well as areas of growth,” Feller said.

An area of growth was in Grade 6 provincial achievement tests, where Livingstone Range students wrote science and social studies tests.

Livingstone Range students achieving excellence totalled 21.5 per cent compared at the provincial average of 19.8 per cent. That’s also up from the division’s three-year average of 18 per cent.

Grade 6 students who achieved at the acceptable level on provincial achievement tests totalled 71.2 per cent, compared to 68.5 per cent provincially and the division’s previous three-year average of 66.2 per cent.

An area of concern is the Grade 9 provincial achievement tests, where 12.2 per cent achieved at the excellence level and 55.8 performed at the acceptable level.

Provincially, 62.5 per cent of students met the acceptable standard and 15.4 per cent met the standard of excellence.

Livingstone Range’s previous three-year average was 62.6 per cent for acceptable and 15.5 per cent for excellence.

Livingstone Range also had 75.3 per cent of students complete high school in three years, compared to the provincial average of 80.4, per cent. The previous three-year average for Livingstone Range was 82.4 per cent.

“The provincial data for PATs and diplomas are just milestones on the learning journey of each of our students,” Richard Feller said.

Trustees were told when students come to pre-Kindergarten and Kindergarten programs they get an Early Years Evaluation Direct Assessment.

Cont’d on page 18

Wednesday, December 11, 2024 - CROWSNEST PASS HERALD - 15

Early Ukrainian Christmas Memories JOHN KINNEAR Crowsnest Pass Reporter The following are the childhood memories of a well known and respected old timer from the Michel/ Natal area who, in the Michel/Natal history book “Remember When” recalled the specific traditional way a Ukrainian Christmas unfolded for him as a child, 80 years ago.

“On or around January 7th, depending on the Julian calendar, the Greek Orthodox faith celebrates their Christmas. Everyone called this either Ukrainian or Russian Christmas and friends and relatives would gather towards the evening of that day. Children were sent to look out the windows for the first evening star while the adults would sit around and talk, the women checking the food on the stove.

As soon as the first evening star was sighted, everyone took a drink and toasted each other and wished everyone the best for that Christmas and for the future. Then they all sat down at the table which was covered with hay along with the floor to symbolize the Christ’s manger. As everyone sat around the table, the ladies of the home then covered the hay with their best homemade tablecloth. Braided loaves of bread, the staff of life, were then put on the table with a centrepiece made of fir boughs and a candle. A candle was also placed in the window as a welcoming beckon to anyone who came by. All were invited, neighbours or strangers, on this holy night. Then the meal would start after a prayer was said. The first dish was either boiled poppy seed or boiled wheat mixed with honey and chopped or crushed nuts (know as Kutia). This was followed by a cold dish of pickled herrings or rollmops made from whitefish and pickled mushrooms. Then clear borscht was served with small stuffed dumplings. The stuffing was made of wild redtop mushrooms that had been picked the summer before and dried and kept for this meal. They were then soaked and cut up and fried with onions and then wrapped in dough. After that they were boiled and put in each soup bowl. There were three kinds of perogies, two of which were made of dough filled with potatoes and cheese. The third contained

Free finance literacy class offered to residents NICHOLAS L.M. ALLEN Crowsnest Pass Reporter Families in the Crowsnest Pass are being offered a unique opportunity to gain financial knowledge through an upcoming free financial literacy class hosted by Tami Plaza of World Financial Group (WFG). Designed to make traditionally exclusive financial strategies accessible to everyone, the class aims to address pressing challenges faced by Canadians, including high debt levels and limited savings.

World Financial Group, an independent financial services marketing and educational platform, prides itself on providing unbiased financial advice. Unlike traditional institutions tied to specific products, WFG partners with over 75 major banks, insurance, and investment companies, offering clients a broad range of solutions tailored to their needs.

“We’re big on education,” Plaza explained, “Traditionally, financial strategies have been available only to the wealthy, but we believe everyone is entitled to the same level of education. Whether someone has $4 or $4 million, our goal is to help families live better lives.”

This focus on education resonates deeply with Plaza, who described her personal journey with financial stress and independence.

“I’ve been on both sides—financially independent and financially burdened.

The stress and frustration of financial insecurity are debilitating. This class is about empowering families to take control of their finances and live their best lives,” said Plaza.

The upcoming class will provide essential insights designed to simplify complex financial concepts and offer practical tools. Key topics include: Assessing how Canadians are faring financially.

Understanding financial concepts and strategies.

Learning practical steps that can make a substantial impact on financial well-being.

“We use real-life examples and easy-to-understand strategies,” Plaza noted.

“Some of the content is shocking—real numbers showing how financially troubled many Canadians are—but we want to be part of the solution.”

sauerkraut, onion and cottage filling but put into a thin potato pancake batter and then fried in butter until they were golden brown. All these types of perogies were smothered in butter and sour cream.

The meal ended with dried fruit and Christmas pastries including kolach which is rolled stuffed sweet dough filled with poppy seed, crushed nuts and honey. In some homes there were also plates of cold cuts, pickled eggs, jellied or pickled fish, salads, antipasto, canapés, pickles and assorted vegetables as well as dark and white breads or rolls. This all went down with hard drink, no mix and a beer chaser”.

According to the recounter of these memories, Mike Paskovich, this was a very buy time for his mother to get in all the celebrations. “First she had to get ready for the Canadian Christmas, then the Canadian New Year and then the Ukrainian Christmas followed by the Ukrainian New Year.

Note: Be sure to watch for recent Ukrainian immigrant Irina Alekseevna’s personal essay of her traditional and personal memories of Christmas celebrations in the Christmas greeter edition of the Herald on December 18th.

Photo credit Crowsnest Museum

Pass Ukrainian Drama Club - 1930

The first session is set to take place soon, with plans to offer additional classes biweekly. Attendees can register by scanning a QR code to secure their spot, ensuring an easy and accessible process. Plaza hopes the article will help spread the word to as many people in the community as possible.

“This is just the first of many opportunities,” Plaza said, “I’m excited to see how many people are interested in taking control of their financial future.”

The class also aims to tackle specific financial challenges faced by Canadian families. As Plaza highlighted, the traditional single-income household has become a rarity, and even dual-income families often struggle to make ends meet.

“We help families fine-tune their finances, whether it’s paying less in taxes, maximizing their investments, or protecting what they have,” Plaza said, “For those seeking additional income streams, we also offer a mentoring program to help individuals build their businesses in financial services.”

Despite the widespread need for financial education, many families may hesitate, believing it isn’t for them. Plaza challenges that notion with a series of thought-provoking questions: “What if I could make sure my child can attend any university they want? What if I could pay less in taxes?” Plaza said, “What if I didn’t have to worry about retiring? Would even one of these questions be worth one hour of my time?”

This initiative by World Financial Group not only aims to improve financial literacy but also seeks to foster a stronger, more financially secure community in the Crowsnest Pass.

The upcoming class is designed as the first step in an ongoing journey. WFG offers additional resources, including a six-step process to build, grow, and preserve wealth. The organization also provides entrepreneurial training for those looking to escape the traditional nine-to-five grind.

“We like to say we’re there from cradle to grave,” Plaza explained, “This is just the beginning of a lifelong partnership in helping families achieve their 24122DS1 financial goals.”

With its mission of leaving no family behind, World Financial Group hopes this free class will spark a ripple effect of empowerment and positive change throughout the Crowsnest Pass and beyond.

16 - CROWSNEST PASS HERALD - Wednesday, December 11, 2024

Livingstone Range honours emerging artists FRANK MCTIGHE Contributor The work of student artists in southwestern Alberta was celebrated last week in Fort Macleod.

Livingstone Range School Division held its 18th Emerging Artists’ Gala on Nov. 26 at the G.R. Davis Administration Building.

“It’s a night of celebrating art from all across the division,” school board vicechair Lacey Poytress said.

Students from Kindergarten to Grade 12 received $25 cash prizes during a ceremony that in-cluded a slide show of the art.

The students’ art is framed and displayed on the walls of the G.R. Davis Administration Building, which is home to the school division’s central office.

Some of the student art is available for purchase.

The following students were honoured on November 26: W.A. Day school — Kade DeKok, Jace Zielinksi and Emmy Gunderson.

Willow Creek Composite — Sam Van Dyke, Allyson Holman-Keim, Aurora Lelek, Jasmine Santos, Tristan Renaud McLean and Sam McPhee.

Livingstone school — Brooklyn Neil, Walker Mallard and Ainsley Harriott.

J.T. Foster school — Sante Anchoris, Arden MacDonald and Ryliegh Savichunas.

Isabelle Sellon school — Edelle Gregor, Anna Gong, Mateo McGaughey, Abi Arbuckle-Bryne, Kabrina DeVlieger and Zander Fulkerth. The school’s all-grades composition was also honoured.

Horace Allen school — Lennon Seaman and Liam Lundrigan.

Canyon school — Emma Thomas, Lacey Welsch and Zyon Epp. A.B. Daley school — Layla Higgins and a class project from Kindergarten.

Waterton Colony school — Clara Wurz.

Thompson Colony school — Amber Tschetter, Jacoby Tschetter and Jethro Tschetter.

Frank McTighe photos

Photos left bottom: An untitled piece by Edelle Gregor, a student at Isabelle Sellon school; A piece titled ‘Butterfly’ by Lennon Seaman, a student at Horace Allen school.

Top photo: An untitled piece by Mateo McGaughey, a student at Isabelle Sellon school.

Spring Point Colony school — Jacobi Walter and Liza Walter.

Pincher Creek Colony school — Cornell Gross, Amaris Gross and Gregory Gross.

Livingstone Colony school — Marcus Walter, Esther Walter, Amy Walter and Hadessah Walter.

Jumbo Valley school — Kylie Hofer.

Greenwood Colony school — Rebecca Waldner, Adam Waldner and Miranda Waldner.

Clear Lake Colony school — Jaden Hofer, Andrea Hofer, Leane Wipf and Angela Wipf.

Hockey Update Media Coordinators THUNDER U9 On Saturday, November 30th, Thunder White faced off against the Elk Valley Kodiaks in a home game filled with high energy and impressive hustle.

The players brought their A-game, with goals scored

by Bowden Williams, Arlo Fulkerth, Hudson Priest, Haven Self, and Rylan Weber. Goaltender Parker Pow gave it his all between the pipes.

Thunder White’s next game is against the Elk Valley Wild on December 14th at 9:00 AM in Elkford.

Contact Nick at passheraldreporter@gmail.com if you have a story for us to cover

Community Events Listing Sponsored by: Event

Date

Time

Place

Song Writing Contest

Now to Jan. 31

www.crowsnestpass

musicfestival.com

PPK Ski Society BBQ

December 14

11:00 am - 1:00 pm

Pass Powderkeg Ski Hill

Ski with Santa

December 21

1:00 pm

Pass Powderkeg Ski Hill

December 22

1:00 - 3:00 pm

January 18

All Day

Pass Powderkeg Ski Hill

December 7

4:00 - 6:00 pm

Bellevue Legion

Skate with Santa Jersey Day at PPK Million Lights Festival

Coleman Complex

Contact The Pass Herald if your non-profit organization would like an event listed

passheraldads@gmail.com

Wednesday, December 11, 2024 - CROWSNEST PASS HERALD - 17

Nature is Magic Scientifically Speaking Leanne Marie Cameron Wirch

Ice is Nice! (originally published by the Western Parent February 1999)

I think ice is rather nice.

Sparkly, frosty, picturesque ice!

So much so that I’ll say it twiceI think ice is rather nice!

In the midst of winter, when we find ourselves slipping and sliding on the dreaded stuff, most of us would tend to disagree with this sentiment. However, if you asked a child, he or she could probably come up with a whole list of reasons as to why ice is really quite nice. This past February, I focused on birding as a way to enjoy our winter both indoors and out. This month I will explore one rather interesting reality of winter - ice.

I discovered many resources which contained both indoor and outdoor ice-related activities designed with minimum expense and maximum fun. Most projects listed are simple enough for children to master with little supervision. However, you may decide to adopt some as family winter projects. * Create your own icicles: Use a push pin to make a tiny hole in the bottom of a 2 or 4 litre plastic milk jug, about 2.5 cm back from the corner opposite the handle. On an evening when the temperature is just below freezing, fill the jug with water and leave it open. Then attach a wire or string to its handle and hang it from a tree. The water should be slowly dripping out one drop at a time. (If it is coming out too fast, try again, by making a smaller hole in another jug. Or put packing tape over the first hole and make another one in the same jug.) The next day you should be rewarded with your own icicle! If the day remains cold, you can try making your icicle longer by adding more water to your jug.

Extra activity: Try creating unusual icicles by adding food colouring to your water or try creating 2 icicles from the same jug.

(Note: the icicle activities were adapted from Kid Style Nature Crafts: 50 Terrific Things to Make with Nature’s Materials by Gwen Diehn & Terry Krautwurst.)

Jack Frost was here!

* Make a frost design: To create your own design, blow on a small portion of the window to melt the frost. The frost will reappear in a new pattern. Experiment with warming the window to create interesting patterns and images. Sketch your designs.

(Note: the frost activities were adapted from Winter Book by Harriet Webster.) * Ice Sculptures: Another way to experiment with ice is by building an ice sculpture. Fill clean recycled plastic containers with water coloured with food colouring and leave them outside with the lids off to freeze. To observe how ice expands when freezing, mark the level of water before freezing and then compare it to the level when it is ice.

(The ice will take up more space than the water.)

Remove the ice from the containers. (If you want to loosen the ice by running warm water over the containers, you will want an adult to help. Otherwise, try leaving the containers indoors for a few minutes.)

Arrange the ice into an interesting shape. (A snow person, elephant, castle, bear, etc..) To cement the ice pieces together, use a water bottle to spray a little water on the desired surfaces and then press hard. (Caution: try to keep your mitts dry as they may stick to the sculptures as well!) Make sure to give your sculpture a strong base so that it doesn’t fall over.

Add extras such as twigs, pine cones, rocks, etc.. When your creation is complete, immortalize it by taking a picture or sketching it!

Growing icicles

Rainbow Falls

Fun for all ages (don’t try this at home) Photo by Eda Burgess

* Observe frost outside: On a cold morning take a walk to examine some frost. With a magnifying glass study the way in which frost covers each blade of grass, tree branches, rocks, and the ground. How is it different? How is it the same? Sketch some of your observations. * Observe frost inside: Frost is formed on windows when the air outside the window is cold enough to cool the air inside the window. (That’s why frost doesn’t often appear on storm windows because the inside air is too insulated to get chilled.) Factors such as swirling air currents, irregularities in the glass, impurities such as dust, and melting and refreezing of the ice crystals, all play a hand in determining the patterns that are created on the glass.

(Note: adapted from Exploring Nature in Winter: A Guide to Activities, Adventures. and Projects for the Winter Naturalist by Alan M. Cvancara, and Nature Crafts for Kids: 50 Fantastic Things to Make with Mother Nature’s Help by Gwen Diehn & Terry Krautwurst).

Now you must agree that ice is rather nice!!

Photos by Leanne Wirch unless otherwise indicated.

Use a magnifying glass to examine the patterns on the windows. Of what do they remind you? (Feathers, seaweed, flowers, trees, stars, or something else?) Or do they remind you of a magical scene?

Write a poem or short story about it.

Sketch your favourite design or scene.

Cool Ice Facts: * Ice is frozen water (a liquid mineral composed of the elements hydrogen and oxygen). * When water freezes into ice, it expands. * Ice is less dense than water which is why ice floats in water. * Ice forms crystals of the hexagonal system (basically symmetrical 6 sided shapes). * Snow is composed of porous ice crystals. * There are about 1 million ice crystals in a patch of snow 60 cm wide, 60 cm long, and 25 cm deep. * Frost is composed of ice crystals and is the winter equivalent of dew.

(When the air at the surface of the ground cools and loses some of its moisture, the moisture is deposited on the ground and dew is formed. In the winter, usually during clear, still nights, frost is formed when water vapour changes directly to ice without condensing first.)

Frost on trees. Photo by Eda Burgess

Leanne Wirch Bio I have often looked to the natural world as an inspiration and a teacher. From exploring the creek and fields on the farm where I grew up, to my many roles as an educator (naturalist, elementary school teacher, and museum educator), experiencing and sharing the magic of nature has been a vital part of my life.

Leanne Wirch is a retired teacher and museum educator who now resides in the awe-inspiring Crowsnest Pass with her wonderful husband and two adventurous cats.

18 - CROWSNEST PASS HERALD - Wednesday, December 11, 2024

THE

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November 2, 1956 – December 5, 2024 Irene Matkowski, of Blairmore, AB, beloved wife of James, passed away peacefully with her family at her side, at the Crowsnest Pass Hospital in Blairmore, on December 5, 2024, at the age of 68 years

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Irene was born in Lethbridge, AB, on November 2, 1956, to Frank and Margaret Trncik. She spent her youth in Picture Butte, AB, until by chance she met James at Campbell’s Hardware store and her heart was stolen. She followed James to the Crowsnest Pass and they spent the next 46 years as husband and wife. They welcomed two beautiful children: Andrea Lynn, February 19, 1979, and Michael James, May 20, 1982. Irene worked for 41 years at the IGA deli as manager. Her work ethic will never be matched, and her customer base was proof of her personal integrity. Irene led the IGA deli to be the highest rated deli for 3 years and locally it was the best place to grab a homemade sandwich specific to your liking. Irene always had a smile and took great pride in ensuring her deli was cleaned, meat rotated, and garnish fresh. Her trays were made with love, and she grew fresh parsley to ensure they had a homemade feel. Anyone that stopped by her home was guaranteed a homemade meal and even a bag of her homemade bread or spudnuts to go.

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Her greatest role and joy in life was being a grandma, which she actively participated proudly in their lives. Irene is survived by her forever soulmate James,daughter Andrea (Tony) Clarke, their children; Declan and Gabby, son Mike (Stephanie) Matkowski. Her cat fur baby Rocky who is missing his Mom. Sister Mary (Dave) Brown and their son B.J., her brother John (Jackie) Trncik and their daughter Jaydon. Irene was a beloved auntie to numerous nieces and nephews. The family wants to give special thanks to her niece Dawn (Mike) Peta for all the love and support. A Special thanks to Dr. Botha and the nursing staff, especially Tracy Marshall at the Crowsnest Pass Hospital for their compassionate care. Irene was blessed with many friends too numerous to mention whom she loved deeply.

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In respect for Irene’s wishes, no Funeral Service is to be held, a private family celebration of life will be held at a later date. Condolences may be registered at www.fantinsfuneralchapel.ca.

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Division update cont’d from page 14

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Crowsnest Pass Health Foundation “Palliative Care” in Irene’s name (PO Box 455 Blairmore, AB T0K 0E0).

Her legacy for caring for others should live on.

3.75” wide version

Children are assessed in awareness of self and environment; cognitive skills; language and communication and physical development.

“No one has ever become poor by giving.” – Anne Frank “We try to get them all assessed so teachers are able to put a plan in place and supports in place before they even come HELPto us,” Furukawa said.

COUNCIL #8045 The Early Years Evaluation isAIRDRIE done again at the end of the year to see where SUPPORT CHARITIES improvements have been made and areas that need to be targetted in Grade 1.

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In addition to attracting top runners from around the world, Gallant envisions The Alberta Numeracy Screening Assessment show that of the 255 Grade 1 students, 78 were at risk at the beginning of the school year. That number dropped to Sinister Sports as a way to promote adventure tourism in Canada, showcasing the nation’s accessible wilderness and friendly hospitality.

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Of the 267 Grade 2 students assessed, 84 were at risk, with that number dropping The response from the endurance racing community has been overwhelmingly to 65 by the end of the year. positive. Even before course details were officially released, racers from across Of the 257 Grade 3 students who were assessed, 74 were at risk, with that num- Canada began expressing interest and planning trips to participate in the new events. ber dropping to 61 by the end of the year.

“People are looking to sign up, even though we have not even announced the Trustees also viewed a new “dashboard” showing results of diploma exams that course,” said Gallant. “We even have competitors from western Canada booking provides detailed information. holidays in Ontario so that they can experience our new events.”

“We believe the data dashboard is going to have significant influence over the With the addition of the SOO 200 and Blue Bully Ultra, Sinister Sports continwork that our staff are able to do,” Richard Feller said. ues to redefine endurance racing in Canada. By introducing these events in Ontario, In June, Learning Services staff met with each school administration to discuss the company not only expands its reach but also elevates Canada’s profile in the what was needed to support student learning.

A three-year plan has been developed that has a community of practice and pro- global trail-running community.

Gallant remains optimistic about the future: “It’s about sharing what Canada fessional development opportunities.

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19 - CROWSNEST PASS HERALD - Wednesday, December 11, 2024

Landscaping • Trenching • Trucking

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20 - CROWSNEST PASS HERALD - Wednesday, December 11, 2024

A lump of steelmaking coal for everyone on the nice list.

'Tis the season for twinkling lights, festive treats and stockings full of… coal? Fear not, for that lump of steelmaking coal in your stocking is a gift reserved for the nicest on Santa’s list!

From the North Pole to the South, steelmaking coal, like what is responsibly produced in the Elk Valley, is an essential input into steel which goes into many things we use everyday like bridges, refrigerators, and holiday gifts! Skates, skis and stainless-steel water bottles are just a few of the thousands of potential gifts made using steel. Whether you are looking for something special for a loved one, or are adding to your own wish list, consider putting some products derived from steelmaking coal in your stocking this year.

Happy Holidays from everyone at Elk Valley Resources!

evr.com