Crowsnest Pass Herald - June 5, 2024

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Crowsnest Pass

Herald

Vol. 94 No. 22 June 5, 2024 $1.25

Serving our communities since 1930

CCHS holds Mock Accident with help of Emergency Services

Nicholas L. M. Allen Photos

Crowsnest Consolidated High School held a ‘Mock Disaster’ for students on the morning of June 4. They explained details of the rescue and the steps emergency services takes in an incident such as this.

This was an example of a single-vehicle collision where the occupant was trapped inside. The fire department performed a removal of the door and then rescued the ‘victim’ from the vehicle with the help of EMS. RCMP was on scene to assist and gather evidence.

Pictures with students have been withheld for privacy reasons.

2 - CROWSNEST PASS HERALD - Wednesday, June 5, 2024

Alberta Government assemby-roundup news GEORGE LEE Macleod Gazette - LJI Reporter

Routing Fort Mac evacuations, preparing for post secondary education, filling cancer doctor shortage, telling two economic tales IN-AND-OUTS FOR FORT MAC ROADS TAKE TOO LONG—NDP

The province should put its pedal to the metal to create more escape routes and reduce evacuation pinch-points at the oilsands capital of Alberta, the NDP said May 16.

Lorne Dach, the NDP’s transportation and economic corridors critic, hinted that the province had unnecessarily abandoned one set of improvements for others, even though the Regional Municipality of Wood Buffalo in northeastern Alberta had endorsed a new highway dubbed East Clearwater.

The highway would have paralleled Highway 63, the major in-and-out, northsouth route for Fort McMurray. It would have dropped south from near Fort MacKay to Anzac, on its way past connecting with the city on its east side.

At the time of the endorsement, the estimated cost of East Clearwater was $1.5 billion. The plan has since been dropped by Wood Buffalo council.

Regardless of what improvements the province has chosen, it isn’t showing enough progress, said Dach. “The transcontinental railway took less time,” the member for Edmonton-McClung quipped.

Devin Dreeshen, the minister of transportation and economic corridors, said construction could start next year on improvements to an existing route in and out of Fort McMurray. Highway 881 is “a very important, critical road in the province of Alberta,” he said.

Highway 881 links the city – which in government parlance is called an urban service area – with Highway 55 at Lac La Biche.

Engineering on 14 passing lanes and consultations with First Nations along 881 are under way, said Dreeshen, the UCP member for Innisfail-Sylvan Lake.

Dreeshen continued: “ Whether it’s northern Alberta or other places across this province, we want to make sure that our road network is there not just to help out the economy and truck traffic but also (to make) sure that communities are safe.”

Meanwhile, a 200-plus-kilometre, gravel extension of Highway 686 is in the planning stages. Dollars are earmarked for consultation with three First Nations: Bigstone, Loon River and Peerless Trout.

The First Nations are helping choose the route, essentially marking a line on a map from Fort McMurray to Peerless Lake, Dreeshen said.

That type of consultation will make sure it’s a supported plan that gets developed, he said.

COLLEGIATE SCHOOLS ENDORSED AS POST-SECONDARY PREP PATHS

An Alberta system of specialized programming successfully primes students for their post-secondary futures and helps Alberta meet job market needs, the UCP member for Cypress-Medicine Hat told the legislature May 16.

Justin Wright said he has home knowledge of college schools. “Some of the best collegiate programs in our province are located in my charming constituency,” he said.

“Collegiate programs bring together students with similar interests to benefit from enriched courses, specialized facilities and enhanced learning opportunities through a unique delivery model.”

Education Minister Demetrios Nicolaides said collegiate schools reflect Alberta’s support of choice in education, noting that the current budget assigns them $123 million in capital funding over three years.

“Collegiate schools play such a critical and vital role in not only our history of school choice and promoting school choice in the province but helping to ensure that young Albertans are able to learn the skills and competencies that are essential for success,” said Nicolaides, the member for Calgary-Bow. Twelve collegiate schools are approved, five of them having opened in the 202324 school year. Seven are scheduled to open in 2024-25.

The province’s website says collegiate schools offer specialized programming in a subject or field and provide a “clear pathway” to post secondary education and careers. They can operate within any category of public school – regular public, separate, francophone or public charter – or as accredited private schools.

Collegiate schools may be eligible for startup funding, sometimes including a one-time grant of $50,000 to support the completion of applications. Each school must have a formal agreement in place with at least one post-secondary institution.

Hands-on learning like work experience is a requirement, along with bridging or dual-credit programming into a post-secondary future.

GOVERNMENT HEALTH CARE IGNORES NEEDS OF CANCER PATIENTS – NOTLEY

Restructuring the delivery of health services amounts to a missed opportunity to address shortages of cancer care doctors and other front-line health care workers in Alberta, Opposition Leader Rachel Notley charged May 21.

Notley said that the target time to see an oncologist is four weeks, yet under the current health minister and premier it can take double that to see a medical oncologist and triple that to see a “crucially important” radiation oncologist.

B.C. and Ontario are outperforming Alberta by “aggressively recruiting” cancer care physicians, said Notley, the NDP member for Edmonton-Strathcona. In one year, B.C. attracted 60 oncologists while Alberta attracted 17 practitioners under the broader umbrella of cancer care physician.

Premier Danielle Smith said that Notley isn’t recognizing the importance of what the government calls a refocusing of health services delivery, part of which will allow it to do a better job of providing cancer care.

“The members opposite misunderstand what it is that we are doing,” said Smith, the UCP member for Brooks-Medicine Hat. Smith said that the number of licensed oncologists in Alberta grew from 107 on March 31, 2015, to 142 on March 31, 2024, an increase of 33 per cent. Another 17 cancer care physicians will begin practising in 2024 and 2025.

Meanwhile, Calgary’s new cancer centre is recruiting for five vacancies, the premier added.

Responded Notley: “That is a fraction of what we are seeing in other provinces.”

She continued: “Albertans seeking cancer care are desperate. Why is it taking so long? Why is (Smith’s) government ignoring them?”

Smith said the doctors, nurses and support staff are being recruited, and the province has seen a “massive increase” in the number of accredited Alberta nurses.

“No one is ignoring anything,” the premier said.

OPPOSING PERSPECTIVES ON ALBERTA ECONOMY NARRATED TO ASSEMBLY

It is the worst of economic times, it is the best of economic times.

Mangled Dickens aside, a tale of two Albertas arose from the floor May 21 as a pair of duelling elected members traded statistics and opinions.

Side Worst was represented by Nathan Ip, the NDP’s jobs, economy and trade critic, and its member for Edmonton-South West.

“Since the UCP took office, Albertans’ incomes, purchasing power and standard of living have plummeted to lows never before seen in our province,” said the member for Edmonton-South West. “The minister is trying to avoid drawing attention to his government’s role in this, hopelessly insisting that we’re only looking at half the picture, but here’s the big picture: Alberta was once the envy of Canada, and we are falling behind on this government’s watch.

“When is the minister going to admit this growing crisis needs decisive action, or is he determined to further erode what used to be the Alberta Advantage?”

Summer Hours of Operation

Cont’d on page 3

Pass Herald is open Monday to Wednesday from 1 - 4:00 pm For Advertising Bookings email - passheraldads@gmail.com For Story Ideas email - passheraldreporter@gmail.com For everything else email Lisa - passherald@shaw.ca

Wednesday, June 5, 2024 - CROWSNEST PASS HERALD - 3 Frank Slide Template.qxp_Layout 1 2023-01-30 11:44 AM Page 1

POLICE BRIEFS Between May 27 to June 3, the Crowsnest Pass Police Department responded to 47 calls for service, of which three were unfounded. A total of one charge was made during this period.

The calls included one traffic collision, nine provincial traffic offenses, two Mental Health Act, one Trespass Act, one other provincial statute, one municipal bylaw, one failure to comply with order, one written traffic offense warning, two victim services proactive referral, one assault, eight thefts under $5000, one theft under or equal to $5000 from a motor vehicle, one theft of truck, three mischief (damage to property), one fraud less than or equal to $5000, one break and enter, one Emergency Protection Order, four suspicious persons/vehicles, one animal call, one false alarm, two lost/found, one assist to the general public and two well-being checks.

Trailer Theft Behind A&W This week, there was a report of another trailer theft. This time, it was a recreational trailer, stolen from behind the A&W restaurant. RCMP urge residents to be vigilant and report any suspicious activities around such vehicles.

Fraud Alert on Marketplace There have been multiple reports of fraud on online marketplaces. In one incident, a resident reported losing over $4,000 after listing an item for sale. The buyer appeared to send an e-transfer, but it was actually a withdrawal from the seller's account. The detachment advises everyone to double-check transactions and be cautious of potential scams.

False Alarm on Stolen Property A resident reported a suspected break-in, claiming two chairs and a case of antique coins were stolen. Lat-

er, it was discovered that the resident’s son had simply moved the items to the basement.

Suspicious Males in Yards There was a report of suspicious males with flashlights seen entering yards in a neighbourhood. They left in a dark extended cab pickup truck. No damage or theft was reported. The detachment conducted patrols but found no suspects. RCMP ask residents to stay alert and ensure their security cameras are operational.

DID YOU KNOW

Elephants are the only mammal that can't jump.

Theft of Vehicle Tires A vehicle owner reported that two tires were stolen off their car overnight. There were no suspects or other affected vehicles in the area.

Family Dispute

HWY #3, Frank • 562-8043

Officers responded to a family dispute involving a father and child. The father declined to press charges despite an assault occurring. No further action was taken.

Stolen Truck Recovered A stolen truck was reported missing but was later recovered in Turner Valley. There was no surveillance footage available at the time of the theft.

Utility Trailer Stolen A utility trailer was reported stolen from a backyard on June 1. It has not yet been recovered.

Vandalism at Livingstone School A Ford Ranger had its gas tank drilled into while parked overnight at Livingstone School in Lundbreck.

The detachment is awaiting footage from the school to aid in the investigation.

Suspicious Vehicle in Alleyway A suspicious vehicle was reported in an alleyway, occupied by two males who had been there for several hours. Upon investigation, it was found that they were working on video editing and posed no threat.

Bike Safety Reminder With the increase in bicycle traffic, RCMP wish to remind cyclists to adhere to the rules of the road. This includes stopping at stop signs and using hand signals when turning.

Assembly-roundup news cont’d from page 2

Representing Side Best was Matt Jones, the governing UCP’s minister of jobs, economy and trade.

“The Alberta Advantage is alive and well,” he said. I could point to 35,000 jobs created in the last four months or maybe 105,000 created over the last 12 months or maybe the fact that Alberta represented 90 per cent of private-sector job creation in Canada over a six-month period,” said the member for Calgary-South East.

“The members opposite are only looking at half the picture because they don’t want to look at the other half, which is that we have the lowest taxes in the (country), meaning that Albertans keep more of what they earn. They don’t have a sales tax. They have the highest basic amounts and world-class public services.”

Ip: lower than the Canadian average in economic growth, productivity and business investment; weakest wage growth of all provinces; less affordable two major cities than Toronto.

Jones: forecasted highest economic growth in Canada; highest productivity, youngest and most productive workforce in the country; high in-migration and wages; low taxes.

And so it went.

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The Crowsnest Museum is located in downtown Coleman - 7701 18 Ave, Coleman, AB T0K 0M0 Open 7 Days a week from 10 am - 5 pm.

4 - CROWSNEST PASS HERALD - Wednesday, June 5, 2024

A Piece of History Demolished What was once the Blairmore Seniors Clubhouse is no longer

Lisa Sygutek photo

On Monday, June 3, the final boards were removed from the Seniors Club House in Blairmore. The building has been derelict for many years and most recently used for fire practice for Crowsnest Pass Search Rescue.

The following is an excerpt from the book Crowsnest and Its People Millennium Edition compliments of the Crowsnest Pass Museum.

The Blairmore clubhouse, west of Lyon’s Creek on the south side of the tracks, now used by the Blairmore Seniors Centre, has an interesting history. It began as a temporary manual arts stop for boys in the old Blairmore school and was located just west of the Harrington Apartments to replace the new school which had burned down. That school had been designed to provide space for home economics, industrial shop, typing room, and the auditorium.

When it became necessary to remove the library from the old West Canadian Collieries building, on the south side of the track in the early 1950s, the structure moved was moved by Charles Sartoris’s crew to its present location. The building had become the property of the Elks Club sponsors of the library. The building served as a library and with a later addition, was considered to be very good, (c. 1961 - Blairmore Anniversary Book).

When the Blairmore Municipal Building was built north of the post office space was provided in the basement for a library and the old structure became vacant.

In the 1950s, the movement for seniors to gather and make recommendations into government actions that affected them, gained momentum. At first, like all beginning organizations, they had no place to call their own and met in basement rooms, or loaned premises in the evening to hold their meetings. Finally, about 1971, the seniors acquired their present premises.

Through the years the seniors have worked to make the facility meet their needs. The building was improved to accommodate those with disabilities.

In 1999 it became necessary to make extensive renovations to meet with standards. The kitchen had to be moved to the east wall away from the washrooms. The work was done by volunteerism except for the new blue and white tile floor. The cost of the renovation was three thousand dollars. Fundraising which had been on-going included dinners, pot luck suppers, yard sales, bake sales, bingo and cards.

The membership fee was very nominal, only $2.00 and was open to anyone over 45 years of age.

The executive members included: President Alberta Reynolds, Vice-president, Charles Martin Secretary, Vivian Reynolds, Treasurer, Connie Funk.

Community Events Listing Sponsored by: Event

Date

Time

Place

Peaks to Pines Yard Sale

CANCELLED

CANCELLED

CANCELLED

Seniors’ Tea

June 6

1:30 - 2:30 pm

ISS

Spring Community BBQ

June 6

4 - 7:00 pm

Gazeboo Park

Senior’s Karaoke Fun

June 7

1 - 4:00 pm

Coleman Seniors’ Centre

June 8

2 - 4:00 pm

Guided Wildflower Walk

Frank Slide Interpretive Centre parking lot sign

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

passheraldads@gmail.com

Wednesday, June 5, 2024 - CROWSNEST PASS HERALD - 5

NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING

NOTICE OF DEVELOPMENT PERMIT

SUMMER WATERING RESTRICTIONS

MUNICIPALITY OF CROWSNEST PASS IN THE PROVINCE OF ALBERTA PROPOSED BYLAW NO. 1185, 2024

LAND USE BYLAW No. 1165, 2023

Residents with ODD house numbers may water on Wednesdays, Fridays and Sundays between the hours of 4:00 AM to 10:00 AM and 4:00 PM to 11:00 PM

7:00pm, June 25, 2024 Municipality of Crowsnest Pass Council Chambers 8502 – 19 Avenue, Coleman

The Development Authority of the Municipality of Crowsnest Pass recently approved the following Permitted Development Application(s): • DP2024-075 – 21350 25 Avenue, Bellevue (Lot 32-35 Block 6 Plan 6099AQ) For an existing “Accessory Building up to 72.8m2” (Shed7.8m2) (permitted use); and For an existing “Accessory Building up to 72.8m2” (Shed/ Gazebo – 43.9m2) (permitted use)

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 • DP2024-084 – 11942 20 Avenue, Blairmore (Lot 10-12 and depicted in the sketch below.

Block 3 Plan 2347BS) For two existing “Accessory Buildings up to 72.8m2” THE PURPOSE of this bylaw is to close to public travel, (Sheds – 5.67m2 each) (permitted use) create titles to and dispose of portions of a public roadway in accordance with section 22 of the Municipal Gov• DP2024-089 – 11718 18 Avenue, Blairmore (Lot 15 ernment Act, Revised Statutes of Alberta 2000, Chapter Block A Plan 0511996) M-26, as amended.

THEREFORE, TAKE NOTICE THAT a public hearing to consider The Development Authority of the Municipality of Crowsthe proposed Bylaw No. 1185, 2024 will be held in the Munici- nest Pass recently approved the following Discretionary pality of Crowsnest Pass Council Chambers at 7:00pm on or Development Application(s) with Variances: June 25 , 2024. Each person shall be allotted 5 minutes to present their position • DP2024-087 – 12310 22 Avenue, Blairmore (Lot 23 Block 15 Plan 2347BS) AND FURTHER TAKE For an existing “Accessory Building up to 72.8m2” (ShedNOTICE that anyone 13.4m2) (permitted use) with a 33% variance to the rear wishing to provide yard setback. slide decks, maps, videos or a written • DP2024-098 – 21407 29 Avenue, Bellevue (Lot 28 Block submission regarding 3 Plan 1211031) the proposed bylaw Short Term Rental / Bed & Breakfast (discretionary use) should email: Bonnie Kawasaki, Executive Any persons claiming to be adversely affected by the Assistant to the CAO above Discretionary Development Permits or Variances at bonnie.kawasaki@ may file an appeal by June 20, 2024, to SUBDIVISION AND crowsnestpass.com DEVELOPMENT APPEAL BOARD (SDAB) through our Muwith the bylaw numnicipal online form or to the or the Land and PROPERTY ber and public hearing RIGHTS TRIBUNAL, as may be applicable. date clearly marked in the subject line no Subdivision and Development Appeal Board: later than 12:00pm on Online Form Submission: https://portal.laserfiche.ca/ June 17, 2024. Verbal o8468/forms/Development_Appeal Fee of $400.00 must be paid with the appeal (will be presentations (limited to 5 minutes) will be accepted at contacted for payment once the form is sent). 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.

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

DATED at the Municipality of Crowsnest Pass in the Province of Alberta this 8th day of May, 2024.

There shall be NO outside watering between the hours of 10:00 AM and 4:00 PM nor between the hours of 11:00 PM and 4:00 AM Effort shall be made to minimize watering during rain events and to minimize runoff into the roadway from overwatering. There shall be NO watering on Mondays Special 21 Day permits will be made available, ONCE PER YEAR, at the municipal office at NO CHARGE, for exceptions to this policy for newly seeded or newly sodded lawns or other extraordinary circumstances which would allow them to water outside the restricted hours.

The schedule of fines for non-conformance with this schedule shall be as follows: • First Offence $75.00 • Second Offence $150.00 • Third Offence $225.00

BOARD VACANCIES The Municipality of Crowsnest Pass has vacancies on the following Boards & Committees: PASS POWDERKEG SKI SOCIETY The Mission of the Pass Powderkeg Ski Society is to engage with the community to cultivate and promote active life-styles and generate support for activities that contribute to the betterment of Pass Powderkeg Ski Area for the benefit of the community.

COMMUNITY MARKETING ADVISORY COMMITTEE The Community Marketing Advisory Committee’s mandate is to advise Council relating to key opportunities, marketplace trends and issues relating to the Municipality’s marketing strategies and programs.

MUNICIPAL PLANNING COMMISSION The Municipal Planning Commission (MPC) reviews development permit applications related to the variance of development standards that are outside of the Development Officer’s mandate and the consideration of discretionary uses in accordance with the provincial land use policies, the Municipal Government Act and the associated Subdivision and Development Regulations, and the Municipality of Crowsnest Pass Land Use Bylaw and statutory plans.

How to Apply The Board and Committee Application Form and the applicable Bylaw or Terms of Reference for each Board & Committee are available at the Municipal Office or online at https://www.crowsnestpass.com/municipal-government/boards-and-committees/board-and-committee-application-information.

Return applications to the Attention of Bonnie Kawasaki by mail to: Municipality of Crowsnest Pass, P.O. Box 600, Blairmore, AB T0K 0E0 Email: bonnie.kawasaki@crowsnestpass.com In person: 8502 – 19 Avenue, Coleman (Monday to Friday, 8:30am to 4:30pm)

On April 23, 2024, Council amended Bylaw 1186, 2024 the Water Services Bylaw, as follows: During the months of May through September inclusive, outside sprinkler watering will be allowed on the following basis: Residents with EVEN house numbers may water on Tuesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays between the hours of 4:00 AM to 10:00 AM and 4:00 PM to 11:00 PM

FCSS 2024 GRANT FUNDING APPLICATION Crowsnest Pass FCSS is now accepting 2024 Grant funding applications.

Deadline to apply is July 31st, 2024 Grant applications can be found at crowsnestpass.com For more information, please contact Kim Lewis at 403563-2207 or by email at kim.lewis@crowsnestpass.com

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

6 - CROWSNEST PASS HERALD - Wednesday, June 5, 2024

Herald Editorial LISA SYGUTEK As the summer sun brightens our days and the season of warmth and renewal unfolds, I want to take a moment to share some significant changes to my office hours and the motivations behind them. This year, more than ever, has been a period of reflection and reassessment, and these changes are rooted in both professional observations and deeply personal experiences.

Over the past few months, I’ve noticed a trend: a significant decline in the number of people coming into the office to discuss work-related matters. Instead, most of the in-person visits have been centered around council issues, with the majority of our daily tasks being efficiently managed through remote communication tools.

The evolution of our work environment into a more flexible, digital-first model has proven successful, allowing us to maintain productivity without the constant need for physical presence.

Given this shift, I’ve decided to adjust my office hours for the summer. I will be embracing the flexibility that remote work offers, reducing the need for in-office presence while still being fully accessible to address any concerns or questions you might have. If you need to reach me, please do not hesitate to call my cell phone or send me an email. These channels remain open and will ensure that I am readily available to assist you.

A significant part of this decision is also deeply personal. This summer marks a poignant and fleeting chapter in my life – it is the last summer before my youngest son leaves for university. The opportunity to spend these precious months with him is one that I treasure deeply. Balancing my professional responsibilities with quality family time is a priority that resonates profoundly with me, especially as I prepare to see him embark on his next journey in life.

This perspective on prioritizing what truly matters has been profoundly reshaped by my battle with cancer.

Going through such a life-altering experience brought a newfound clarity and focus on what is essential in life.

Fighting through the illness, enduring multiple surgeries, and embracing the path to recovery underscored the importance of family, health, and meaningful connections. It taught me to value each moment, to appreciate the small joys, and to be present for those who matter most. This summer, I am committed to making memories with my son, cherishing every moment before he spreads his wings and takes flight into his future.

My journey with cancer was not just a personal struggle but a transformative experience that reshaped my outlook on life and work. It reminded me that while our professional endeavours are important, they should never overshadow the richness and fulfillment of our personal lives. Health and family are irreplaceable, and the time spent with loved ones is invaluable.

As I navigate this summer with a more flexible schedule, I encourage all of you to reflect on your own work-life balance. Embrace the opportunities to be with your loved ones, pursue your passions, and find joy in the everyday moments. Our work is significant, but it is the richness of our personal experiences that truly defines our happiness and fulfillment.

This change in office hours is not just about adapting to a new way of working but also about living in alignment with these values. It’s about recognizing that flexibility and remote work can lead to a healthier, more balanced life for all of us. It’s about making room for what truly matters while ensuring that our professional responsibilities are met with the same dedication and commitment.

Thank you for your understanding and support as we make this transition. I look forward to continuing our work together, whether remotely or in person, and wish each of you a fulfilling and enjoyable summer.

Let’s embrace this season with a renewed focus on what is truly important in our lives, both professionally and personally.

Herald “Letters to the Editor” Policy

Policy: The Pass Herald welcomes Letters to the Editor that examine issues, but reserves the right to edit for length, libel and syntax. Writers must sign letters and include first and last names, address and telephone number. Address and telephone numbers will not be published. Only in exceptional cases will the Pass Herald withhold the name of the writer and in those cases the writer must disclose his/her name, address and telephone number to the Editor.

Electronic email will be considered an electronic signature. Letters to the Editor do not reflect the opinion of the Pass Herald. Letters cannot exceed 600 words. We have limited space, but we do enjoy printing ever­y article. So please, to allow everyone to express their opinion, keep the letters short and to the point. We do have the right to refuse any letter that in our judgement may contain libel or libelous opinions. Should a litigation result from your letter, you as the writer are responsible but so is this newspaper as the publisher.

June is ALS awareness month ALS SOCIETY OF CANADA

ALS Society of Canada rallying the community together to bring awareness to nearly 4,000 Canadians living with ALS and their families ALS Awareness Month kicks off June 1, as the ALS Society of Canada (ALS Canada) brings the community together to build recognition of what amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is and the impact the relentless disease has on nearly 4,000 Canadians living with the disease and their families.

“An ALS diagnosis can be devastating. What we want people to know is – you are not alone,” says Tammy Moore, CEO, ALS Canada. “ALS Canada’s mission is to work with the ALS community to improve the lives of Canadians affected by ALS through advancing research, care, advocacy, and information. We realize that with each person diagnosed, there are roughly six additional people we touch within their circle of care.

It’s important that we’re here, united together in our support. At ALS Canada, we do this by empowering people living with ALS to navigate the current realities of the disease, be informed consumers of ALS information, and advocate effectively for change. We also invest in high-quality research, that will fuel scientific discovery and hopefully lead to more approved therapies and improved quality of life.”

ALS is a neuromuscular disease that progressively paralyses people because the brain can no longer communicate with the muscles of the body that we are typically able to move at will. As a result, people with ALS often face a swift decline in the ability to talk, walk, eat, swallow, and eventually breathe. There is currently no cure for the disease that carries a lifetime risk of 1 in 300 for each of us. In addition to advancing

research, care, advocacy and information, ALS Canada provides community-based services, including direct support provided by the ALS Canada Equipment Program and ALS Canada Community Leads to Ontario families living with ALS. This June, help us recognize ALS Awareness Month by getting involved with ALS Canada in a variety of ways: • Purple for Awareness. Keep your eyes open for lighting and illuminations of local landmarks in your area as they go purple to recognize this important month. Check out the CN Tower, Nathan Phillips Square, and Niagara Falls throughout June. Take action! Snap a picture and post on your social media channels and tag @ALSCanada to show your support.

• Lou Gehrig Day. Tune in on June 2 as Major League Baseball (MLB) recognizes Lou Gehrig Day, honouring the baseball great for his legacy and the awareness created for ALS around the world. The Blue Jays will mark the day at their home game.

• Global ALS Awareness Day. On Global ALS Awareness Day (June 21), ALS Canada will host a live webinar featuring the Chairs of the Canadian ALS Research Network (CALS) and provide an overview of the Top 10 exciting things about our understanding of ALS in 2024 presented by Dr. David Taylor, Vice-President, Research and Strategic Partnerships, ALS Canada. Register for free.

• Get Walk Ready! Get connected with the ALS community by joining the ALS Canada Walk to End ALS; for a complete list of dates and locations, visit walktoendals.ca.

• Become a Monthly Donor. During the month of June, sign up for our Circle of Hope Monthly Giving Program and your monthly gift will be matched for three months thanks to our generous matching donor. Sign up today!

• Share your story and stay connected. Whether you want to share your journey or keep a loved one’s memory alive, we encourage you to follow ALS Canada on social media at @ALSCanada on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. Let us know what #aWorldFreeOfALS means to you.

Lisa Sygutek Owner/Publisher Tina Pedersen Advertising Nick Allen Community Reporter Devon Brady Community Reporter John Kinnear Feature Reporter Published every Wednesday Subscription Rates (includes GST): Single Copy: $1.25 Annual Subscriptions:

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Wednesday, June 5, 2024 - CROWSNEST PASS HERALD - 7

4-H Achievement Day success

JOHNPUNDYK.COM

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

NICHOLAS L.M. ALLEN Pass Herald Reporter

Timer Trails 4-H Club held their Achievement Day at Lynch-Staunton’s Feedlot at the end of May The Timber Trails 4-H Achievement Day took place on Monday, May 27, against the backdrop of the Livingstone Range at Lynch-Staunton’s Feedlot. The event celebrated the hard work and dedication of the Timber Trails 4-H members, showcasing their livestock projects with pride and enthusiasm.

Anna Welsch served as the Confirmation & Showmanship Judge, lending her expertise to the proceedings. Assisting in the ring was Justin Schoening, ensuring the event ran smoothly and safely.

Timber Trails 4-H Club, consisting of 10 committed members, 8 with beef projects and 2 with lamb projects, displayed their year-long efforts in animal husbandry and grooming.

In the Market Steer Project, Sophie Lynch-Staunton took first place with her steer “Chong,” followed

by Paige Rast in second with her steer “Ross,” Mary Rast in third with her steer “Joey,” Carter Grose in fourth with his steer “Batman,” and Glen Hurst in fifth with his steer “Binoo.” Notably, Mary Rast achieved the largest rate of gain with her steer at 3.9 lbs/day.

The Heifer Project saw Will Schoening secure first place with his heifer “Artemis,” Olivia Sommers in second with her heifer “Chipotle,” and Madeline Schoening in third with her heifer “Gladius.”

In the 2-Year-Old Cow/Calf category, Madeline Schoening claimed first place with “Dyna & Harley,” Olivia Sommers took second with “Sriracha & Frank,” and Will Schoening came in third with “Mila & Clarabelle.” Will Schoening also excelled in the 3-Year-Old Cow/Calf category with “Noir & Goose” and won the Breeder’s Herd category.

The Showmanship Class saw impressive performances as well. In the Intermediate class, Mary Rast took first place, followed by Glen Hurst in second, Carter Grose in third, and Isaiah Montgomery in fourth. The Senior class had Madeline Schoening in first place, Sophie Lynch-Staunton in second, and Will Schoening in third. Madeline Schoening was named Grand Champion Showman, with Mary Rast as Reserve Champion.

Other notable achievements included Madeline and Will Schoening’s participation in the Carcass Project.

In the Market Lamb category, Isaiah Montgomery secured first place with “Buttercup,” while Mikayla Montgomery took second.

“All of the members did a remarkable job throughout the year taking care of their projects and ensuring their health, and gain. They worked hard to prepare the animals for achievement day by grooming and halter breaking them. They showcased their hard work and passion for 4-H,” said 4-H club member Carter Grose and his mother Eliza Grose.

They wished to extend a thank you to judge Anna Welsch for helping all the members feel comfortable and supported while providing constructive feedback, and to Justin Schoening for making sure everyone was safe and the event flowed smoothly.

Gratitude was also extended to the families and community for their continued support and encouragement, and to the buyers for supporting these 4-H members and helping to contribute to these amazing life lesson opportunities.

Photos on page 11

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8 - CROWSNEST PASS HERALD - Wednesday, June 5, 2024

Celebrating Seniors’ week in the Pass NICHOLAS L. M. ALLEN Pass Herald Reporter A celebration of the contributions that seniors make in the community across Alberta comes to the Crowsnest Pass from June 3 to 7.

According to the Government of Alberta website, Seniors’ Week has been recognized since 1986. It was started to celebrate and recognize the contributions seniors make to enhance the quality of life in Alberta.

Seniors’ Week was inspired by the vision of Alice Modin. More than 30 years ago, Modin began a campaign to start a seniors’ day in Strathcona County that helped pave the way for Seniors’ Week.

The Crowsnest Pass is just one of the many communities throughout Alberta to officially declare Seniors’ Week each year and hold local events showing their support.

Family Community Support Services (FCSS) Programmer Kim Lewis explained how all the different senior organizations in the Pass get together and try to do something at least one of the days during the week.

Lewis said the events are really well attended and help with social connections among the seniors, getting them engaged and visiting others in the community.

The event keeps growing as the events are better attended each year.

“I’ve been here for over 10 years, and it has really grown,” said Lewis.

She thinks it is important, particularly after winter, where a lot of seniors aren’t necessarily getting out as much.

“They can get out, they can visit and then see all their friends and meet new friends too,” added Lewis.

Lewis also mentioned she does a monthly newsletter for seniors, including all the activities happening around town.

“It can be found around town as well as on our website and on social media, on our Facebook page,” said Lewis.

The Seniors’ Week activities in the Pass run from June 3 to 7 from throughout the community.

More information is available at crowsnestpass. com

Seniors’ Week Schedule June 3 - FCSS Seniors Luncheon 11:30-1pm | MDM Community Centre in Bellevue RSVP to Kim at 403-563-2207 June 4 - Board Games & Bingo Day 1-4pm | Coleman Seniors Drop-in Centre. Everyone welcome Refreshments, no registration needed.

June 5 - Drums Alive - Fun drumming exercise class. 1:00-11:45am | Corner Hub in Blairmore. Fun, stress relieving & social activity. No registration required.

June 5 - Whist Tournament 1:30pm | Coleman Seniors’ Drop-in Centre | Lunch, refreshments, & prizes!

Everyone welcome. RSVP to Margaret at 403-5644734 June 6 - Senior’s Tea 1:30-2:30pm | Isabelle Sellon School. Coffee, tea, snacks & entertainment. RSVP to Amber at 403-562-8816 June 7 - Geology & Flower Walk with Uplift Adventures 1:30pm3:30pm | Meet at Frank Slide Interpretive Centre - east side of parking lot. Call Kim at 403-5632207 to register (space is limited).

Uplift adventures waiver must be filled out to attend.

Celebrating Our Seniors Seniors special on Foothills Ice Cream Cones Bellevue East Access (403) 564-4389

Hours: Monday, Wednesday, Thursday & Saturday 11-5pm Tuesday Closed Sunday 12-4:00 pm

Wednesday, June 5, 2023 - CROWSNEST PASS HERALD - 9

Kim Lewis photo

Seniors Week in the Crowsnest Pass kicks off with the Crowsnest Pass FCSS Municipal Luncheon at the MDM in Bellevue at 11:30 a.m. on June 3.

The lunch was catered by Chris’ Restaurant with entertainment by the Kids Kollege Kiddos. There was a great turnout with 135 people in attendance.

Nicholas L. M. Allen photos

Celebrating the Senior’s in our communities

Bellevue Legion #19

Celebrating Seniors Week

10 - CROWSNEST PASS HERALD - Wednesday, June 5, 2024

Alberta Excavation: Dedicated to quality NICHOLAS L. M. ALLEN Pass Herald Reporter

Local family brings expertise and community spirit to Crowsnest Pass with their revitalized family business Born and raised in the Crowsnest Pass, Landen Yakubowski, along with his brother Carson and their father, is revitalizing a family-owned business, Alberta Excavations. With a deep-rooted history in the construction industry, the Yakubowski family is committed to providing quality service and contributing to the local community.

Yakubowski, shared insights into the origins and operations of Alberta Excavations during a recent interview.

“My dad started the business back in 2002 while working at the mine. He chose to focus on the mine to be there for us when we were kids, but now my brother and I have taken the reins,” Yakubowski explained.

The company offers a range of services, including landscaping, trucking, demo-

Crowsnest Pass Municipal Council recap NICHOLAS L. M. ALLEN Pass Herald Reporter

Public Hearings ~ Public Participation ~ Digital Records ~ Service Area Updates ~ First Quarter Financials ~ Credit Card Payment for Utilities The Crowsnest Pass Municipal Council convened on May 28, 2024, for a session where several significant issues and bylaws were discussed.

The first public hearing focused on Bylaw 1153-2023, a road closure intended to facilitate a land sale. The session was brief, with no written submissions or public comments, leading to a swift opening and closure by the presiding official. The second hearing addressed Bylaw 1156-2023, aiming to change the zoning of 2158 213 Street in Bellevue from retail commercial to residential. Similar to the first hearing, no submissions or public comments were made, resulting in a prompt conclusion.

The third hearing on Bylaw 1182-2024, concerning urban and non-urban tourism accommodation and recreation districts, garnered more engagement. Brad Kirk from Trilogy Real Estate Group submitted written support.

“I am writing as a landowner and developer within the Municipality of Crowsnest Pass to express our support for the proposed amendment to the Land Use Bylaw, which introduces two new land use districts focused on promoting the expansion of tourism development in both urban and non-urban areas of the municipality,” said Kirk in the letter to council.

Melissa Atkinson, representing a local contractor, endorsed the bylaw, citing its potential to attract high-quality developments and address shifting housing preferences due to the COVID-19 pandemic. She emphasized the demand for higher-density housing and smaller dwellings like tiny homes.

However, concerns were also voiced, with a resident opposed to the bylaw, arguing against scattering tiny homes and high-density developments in residential areas. Tanner Murphy spoke out in support of the bylaw, highlighting the positive trajectory of community development and the necessity to adapt bylaws for tourism and recreational growth.

The council discussed the amendment for Bylaw 1156-2023 concerning a largely vacant property in Bellevue, which is planned to be converted into accommo-

lition, drilling for fence posts, and material delivery.

“Basically, any work that needs to be done outside with the excavator, skid steer or a truck,” said Yakubowski.

Alberta Excavations is a testament to the Yakubowski family’s dedication to quality and community service.

“We’re here for the customer, offering free quotes and ensuring everything meets the highest standards of safety and customer satisfaction,” Yakubowski emphasized.

Their commitment to the community is evident through their volunteer work.

This year, the company volunteered at the local rodeo, bringing in dirt with their trucks. They have also supported projects like the Blairmore bike park and the local ski hill.

Yakubowski’s experience is extensive, having worked at the Crowsnest Pass Golf Course and with Goodwin Golf on various projects in Winnipeg and Calgary.

“I’ve learned a lot about landscaping and how to do things properly and efficiently, especially with the high expectations that come with golf course construction,” Yakubowski noted.

Yakubowski encourages potential clients to reach out for free quotes and consultations. As the company continues to grow, Yakubowski remains committed to giving back to the Crowsnest Pass community.

“We’ve always been keen on putting ourselves back into the community,” he said.

With their expertise and dedication, Alberta Excavations is poised to contribute significantly to the region’s development and beautification.

For more information or to see examples of their work, residents can contact Landen directly or visit their website for updates and photos of their projects. For those interested in Alberta Excavations’ services, phone 403-563-0319 or email abexcavationlck@gmail.com.

dations. Highlighting the severe housing shortage and high rental costs, council members unanimously supported the bylaw, proceeding with the second and third readings.

The council delved into Bylaw 1182-2024, which consolidates existing non-urban commercial districts into a unified tourism district, aligning with the municipality’s 2021 plan. This bylaw aims to support tourism growth and provide diverse housing options. The council acknowledged the need for flexible accommodation options, including upscale camping facilities and resorts, to bolster the local economy. Discussions touched on infrastructure challenges and the importance of public input in refining the bylaw through the legislative process. Ultimately, the council proceeded with the second and third readings of Bylaw 1182, passing it unanimously.

An amendment to the procedural bylaw regarding public participation during meetings was debated. While some council members supported the amendment for efficiency, others emphasized the value of public input. The motion was passed.

The council discussed updating the records management program to accommodate digital records. An amendment to the records retention bylaw was proposed, adjusting retention periods based on legal and administrative needs. Several outdated bylaws were also repealed, streamlining municipal regulations.

Updates were provided on various service areas, including road maintenance, fire hall leasing, and community events. The council outlined plans for pothole repairs and dust mitigation, emphasizing efficient communication channels for residents to report issues.

The council reviewed the first quarter financial statements for 2024, noting seasonal fluctuations in revenue and expenditures. Discussions highlighted the timing of property taxes, grants, and capital projects. The financial report was accepted for information.

An analysis of assessment values and their impact on property taxes from 2017 to 2020 was presented. Council members acknowledged the lag between assessed values and actual sale prices, expressing concerns about the correlation between rising property values and tax increases. The report was accepted for information.

The council approved an additional $2000 from the facilities reserve for a water softener to accompany a new commercial dishwasher for the MDM in Bellevue.

Despite concerns about potential misuse, the importance of the installation was unanimously recognized.

The possibility of implementing credit card pay for utility and tax payments was explored, providing residents with a convenient payment option. The council agreed to proceed with an agreement for credit card payments, acknowledging the potential financial strain on some residents but valuing the added flexibility.

Wednesday, June 5, 2024 - CROWSNEST PASS HERALD - 11

Summer Games registration closing soon NICHOLAS L. M. ALLEN Pass Herald Reporter

Southern Alberta Summer Games registration is closing soon for Crowsnest Pass residents With the town of Coaldale set to host the upcoming Southern Alberta Summer Games, registration will be closing soon for locals to participate.

Tracey Linderman, the regional director for the Southern Alberta Summer Games, shared important details about the upcoming event. The games, set to take place in Coaldale from July 3 to July 6, offer a variety of sports and activities for participants of all ages.

“Registration is open right now. They just extended it to June 7, so there is still time to register,” said Linderman.

Linderman emphasized that participants can register for up to three different

sports. Examples include golf, photography, and football. The event is inclusive, welcoming participants from all age groups, not just students.

There are numerous sports available, including track and field, badminton, baseball, beach volleyball, mountain biking, swimming, and various types of soccer.

Unique options such as cribbage, darts, equestrian events, and photography are also available. A new addition this year is e-sports, though no participants have registered for it yet.

Participants are not required to stay for the entire duration of the games. They only need to be present on the day their sport is scheduled. For example, adults participating in golf only need to be in Coaldale on Wednesday, July 3rd.

As of now, 15 people from the Crowsnest Pass have registered. Linderman expects more registrations, particularly in soccer and baseball, before the June 7 deadline.

Linderman encourages anyone with questions about registration or the games to contact her at 403-563-2208. She reassures potential participants that it’s never too late to register, even as the deadline approaches.

“There is a registration fee of $40. However, that helps to put the games on and they get a really cool team Crowsnest Pass T-shirt,” added Linderman.

Detailed information and registration forms can be found on the Southern Alberta Summer Games website at southernalbertasummergames.ca.

Linderman highlighted the inclusivity of the games, which cater to all ages from as young as five years old to adults. The event promises to offer something for everyone, with both individual and team sports available.

For more information or to register, visit the official website or contact Linderman directly.

Jennifer Hamilton Named Principal of FACES LIVINGSTONE RANGE SCHOOL DIVISION Pass Herald Contributor Livingstone Range School Division is pleased to announce that Jennifer Hamilton has been appointed Principal of FACES summer education program for the 2024 season.

Jennifer holds Bachelor of Arts and Education degrees from the University of Saskatchewan and a Master of Education (Educational Studies) degree from the University of Alberta. Teaching since 2005, Jennifer has been the Assistant Principal of Crowsnest Consolidated High School for the past two years.

In this additional leadership role as Principal of FACES, Jennifer will oversee the organizational and instructional leadership of the program; train staff in curriculum, pedagogy, and assessment; and work collaboratively with all leaders to provide an incredible outdoor experiential academic experience for the more than 600 students enrolled in the program each year.

“We are incredibly proud of our unique FACES Summer Education Program and its growth each year,” says Superintendent Darryl Seguin. “We look forward to the passionate leadership and student-centered approach that Jennifer will bring as Principal.”

Jennifer is enthusiastic about this opportunity. “I’m excited to be part of a pro-

Timber Trails cont’d from page 7 Photos of the Timber Trails 4-H Club Achievement Day submitted

by Eliza Grose.

gram that has made a difference in the lives of so many youth over the years through personal reflection and meaningful land-based experiences,” says Jennifer. “I look forward to working with the FACES team to support their vision for students as it aligns so well with ours.”

Jennifer enjoys hiking and camping in the beautiful mountains of the Crowsnest Pass with her husband, 4 kids, and 2 dogs. She enjoys watching her children build their mountain biking and skiing skills. Jennifer also trains in Olympic-style weightlifting and attends regional and international competitions.

Congratulations to Jennifer on her new role.

12 - CROWSNEST PASS HERALD - Wednesday, June 5, 2024

Award winning artist plays at the Art Gallery PASS HERALD CONTRIBUTOR In March 2020, Canadian folk & country artist Sarah Jane Scouten was living in rural Scotland. With tours cancelled, days stretched endlessly, punctuated only by the steady unfolding of Scottish springtime, leaf by leaf, petal by petal. Growing up on the west coast of Canada, to her the flora of Dumfries and Galloway was a pageant of scent and colour, altogether new but still strangely familiar. This is where Sarah Jane was initiated into herbal medicine – hawthorn, valerian, yarrow.

The plants’ subtle power drew her onto an unexpected path. In May 2020 she applied to a professional programme in herbal medicine in the UK, qualifying in June 2023. Training in an entirely different field gave her perspective and space from a career in music which demands everything. It renewed Sarah Jane’s love of live performance, which had been diminished by life on the road. Studying herbs, and just as importantly people, gave her music a deeper dimension and she began to write again. Now for the first time this decade, she is releasing new music.

Sarah Jane Scouten’s upcoming fifth album Turned to Gold (Light Organ Records) is a road trip album, drawing on Tom Petty, Linda Ronstadt, Emmylou Harris and Christine McVie. Opening up the record, “Wanderlust” is a highway dream. “Wilder When I Was With You”, with its irresistible chorus, was co-written with Samantha Parton (BeGood Tanyas). “Rose and Carnations” is a tribute to John Prine and “The Great Unknown” reveals a family experience of medical assistance in dying (MAID). For the title track “Turned to Gold”, Sarah Jane revisits the impact of the sudden loss of her biological mother, exploring the theme of alchemical transmutation. Made in a heatwave in Vancouver, she collaborated with producer Johnny Payne (The Shilohs), Matt Kelly on keys and guitars (City and Colour), Leon Power on drums (Frazey Ford) and James McEleney on bass (Andrew Collins Trio).

Sarah Jane Scouten has been nominated for 4 Canadian Folk Music Awards, a Western Canadian Music Award and an International Folk Music Award. She has performed at Vancouver Folk Music Festival, MerleFest, Calgary Folk Music Festival, Salmon Arm Roots and Blues, Dranouter Festival, Maverick Americana Music Festival and more. She has opened for Corb Lund, William Prince, Ron Sexsmith, The Sadies and shared the stage with Martha Wainwright, The Strumbellas, Allison Russell, Martin Carthy, Mandolin Orange (Watchhouse) and more. According to CBC q’s Tom Power, “Stan Rogers was able to do it, Ron Hynes was able to do it, Kate McGarrigle was able to do it – and Sarah Jane Scouten is able to do it.”

Wednesday, June 5, 2024 - CROWSNEST PASS HERALD - 13

Looking Back

BY JOHN KINNEAR

Every Stone has a Story Exploring the Old Blairmore Cemetery

Last Sunday was designated by the Crowsnest Memorial Society and the Municipality of the Crowsnest Pass as Cemetery Day. This 6th annual event is a day of opportunity for the public to get out and explore any one of the twelve beautiful and historic places of rest here.

I personally have been wandering cemeteries for the better part of my life and know full well that every single marker has a story. Every headstone and the information on it throughout the Pass was documented in 2013 by Alison Glass and Pat Goulden, dedicated findagraver’s that have mapped dozens of cemeteries. All marker information, an exact location description, and a picture of the marker can be found there. The findagrave.com website is simple to use and generally these two dedicated mappers went the extra mile, where they could, and posted the newspaper obits on the individual’s site. They also, whenever possible, link all related family members together (spouses, siblings and parents) which allows for in-depth research. It is a remarkable example of volunteerism.

The Old Blairmore Union is a spectacular site perched on a steep hillside east of the Blairmore Catholic. Most of the upper graves have built-up platforms of concrete and it is amazing to see just how far up the slope they went. In 2022 members of the Memorial Society organized yet another major cleanup there as this cemetery did and still does need a lot of work. I arrived on cleanup day equipped with a machete, pruning shears, clippers and a bush ax. My primary target was the Reuben Steeves grave, one of the nicest in the Pass.

It is a rose coloured tapered cylindrical masterpiece that stands about nine feet high. It was totally overgrown by brush and vines. When all was said and done and the site opened up I discovered yet a second flat marker under the vines. The name on it is Mary C. Klish- (1931-1991).

Findagrave allowed me to dig deeper into the linkage and with the help of Ian McKenzie’s must own book, Heritage Cemeteries of Crowsnest Pass, the Steeves story can be studied. Ian added cemetery maps for each cemetery and marked out on them an interesting cross section of graves he researched with numbers that correspond to the stories in the book. “Reuben Steeves (1860-1908) - #9. B-1A-10) was a member of the first Frank village council and a self-made businessman who amongst other things owned the Imperial Hotel, the brick yard, part of a wholesale liquor business in Frank and the Windsor Hotel in Lundbreck.” The story goes that the then 48-year-old Steeves drowned in a small lake near Stavely while hunting ducks with his partners.

He was paddling a canvas canoe, driving the ducks towards the hunting party when it overturned. It took nine days to finally find him and his funeral was reported in the Coleman Miner newspaper as the biggest the Pass had ever seen. Findagravers like Alison dip into the University of Alberta’s -Peels Prairie Provinces, a website of scanned newspapers like the Coleman Miner and the Blairmore Enterprise to find details to post along with the grave information. Mary C.Klish, it turns out, was Reuben Steeves granddaughter and the daughter of Reuben’s son Gordon. Gordon was only 16 when

he lost his father and went on to graduate with a degree in pharmacy and ran pharmacy stores in both Blairmore and Coleman for many years. The huge toppled marker next to Reuben’s is that of his daughter Eva May Steeves who was only 16 when she passed in 1907, ten months before her father.

That is just one site at the Union Cemetery and McKenzie picked no less than 32 varied sites and stories from that hillside garden of memories for that chapter. I went up there the other day to check on a specific site that I had also cleaned, that being the one for Joseph Kneip. Joseph died in 1927 at the age of 28 from a broken back, caused by falling off of construction scaffolding at the Kimberley smelter. Joseph was a meat-cutter who worked at the Union Meat Market in Blairmore, then started his own business in Michel and then went to work at the Success Meat Market in Kimberley. Eleven years later, in 1938, his 14 year-old son Joseph Jr. was accidentally killed while hunting and is buried in a tiered plot directly above Joseph. The reason I went to his marker was to check on the peony plant that has been growing out of a special circle in the middle of his plot for many decades, perhaps since his death. It is getting ready to bloom once again, a testament to his memory.

About half way up to the top end of the cemetery is the tiered grave of Frank Kutcher Sr., a German immigrant. Frank Sr. came here in 1913 and was a blacksmith by trade, working at the Mohawk and then Bellevue Mine until he was injured in January of 1935 and passed five days later of his injuries. His son Frank Kutcher Jr. became a mechanic to avoid going into the mine but nevertheless on June 19, 1969 found himself heading into Balmer South #1 underground to repair a jack on a mechanical miner. The mine flooded in a horrific event that cost three lives and left Frank and two others trapped for 84 hours until their rescue. Incidentally that incident occurred exactly 55 years to the day after Canada’s worst coal mine disaster at Hillcrest.

The variety of marker designs in the Union is fascinating and there is a distinct section of small Chinese markers that runs upwards in a row. The markers include the names of their birth villages written in sinograph characters. There is also another north south row of military graves that all carry the distinctive maple leaf that indicates that they are a CWGC marker (Commonwealth War Graves Commission).

I noted in my walkabout that a lovely addition has been made to these markers and every other military marker in the Union. On top of each is a white rock with the image of a poppy painted onto it, no doubt a student project that made my heart glad.

Cemetery Day should be a day that people consider coming to pay their respects to loved ones or ancestors or just to do as I do, wander about and learn about those interred there and their stories. I use my cell phone and findagrave.com, the newspaper archive site and Ian’s book to lead me through some always fascinating and important stories. Cemetery Day can be any day you like and perhaps you might even be inclined to apply a little elbow grease to a site that needs some love and care, whether it be a relative or not.

These days we choose to conduct mostly brief celebrations of life, which are important acknowledgements of those who slip away from us. All around the world cultures conduct more sophisticated and unique festivals, ceremonies and even feasts to celebrate their dead. Chuseok is the way that Koreans honor their ancestors in a celebration over three days that combines dance, food and general revelry. Rice cakes, called songpyeon, are given to the deceased for their role in providing a good harvest. Gai Jatra is the Nepalese Festival of the Cows which is an 8-day affair. Cows are thought to help guide the deceased into the afterlife, so families with a recently departed loved will guide a cow (or a boy dressed as a cow) through the streets of Kathmandu to both honor and aid their deceased.

Of course one of the most familiar celebrations that comes to mind is known as Dia de los Muertos – Day of the Dead, a Mexican tradition that occurs the day after Halloween on November 1st. Mexicans believed that the dead would be offended by mourning and sadness so they launched this annual event to honor the dead as a day separate from funerals, memorials and wakes. The desire is to separate the border between the living and the dead.

So contemplate a visit to any one of these 12 amazing repositories. You will find it a fascinating journey.

Author’s Note – Ian McKenzie’s book is available at the Crowsnest Museum and all sales monies go towards the museum. Check out the online version for more interesting photos.

John Kinnear photos

Photos left to right: Reuben Steeves plot after cleaning ~ Joseph Kneip plot with peony plant ~ Row of WW1 military markers with poppy ~ Eliza Chambers - 1902- 1st person to pass in Blairmore.

14 - CROWSNEST PASS HERALD - Wednesday, June 5, 2024

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Krista Friel Advertise 1944 - 2024$ Province-wide

EQUIPMENT FOR SALE GET YOUR MESSAGE SEEN ACROSS Alberta. The Blanket Classifieds or Value Ads reach over 600,000 Alberta readers weekly. Two options starting at $269 or $799 to get your message out!

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FOR SALE WHITE SPRUCE TREES: 5’ average $50. Installation ONLY $19. Includes: hole augered, Wurzel Dip enzyme injection, bark mulch application, staking. Minimum order 25. One-time fuel charge: $150 - 200. Crystal Springs. 403-820-0961. Quality guaranteed.

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FORAGE SEED FOR SALE: Organic & conventional: Sweet Clover, Alfalfa, Red Clover, Smooth Brome, Meadow Brome, Crested Wheatgrass, Timothy, etc. Star City, SK. Birch Rose Acres Ltd. 306-921-9942.

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Krista Friel ofwithRaymond Alberta, beloved a combined circulation of wife of the lateover Charlie Friel 650,000 for only...passed away on Wednesday, May 29, 2024, at St. Michael’s Ask about the Health Centre at the age of 80 years.

Value Ad Network Krista is survived by her two children Lucas Alberta Weekly Newspapers Association

and Jacob (Nicole Furman). Krista is also sur-

toll free 1-800-282-6903 x225 vived by her seven grandchildren, Maxwell, email classifieds@awna.com

Gracelyn, Makayla, Mason, and Gabriella Frior visit your community newspaper el, and Gavin and Genevieve Furman-Friel; her three sisters Olga McCaw (Bob), Thyra Knudsen (Patrick Capper), Kamma Thompson (Hugh), and two brothers Sigfred Knudsen, and Brooks Knudsen (Wendy); as well as numerous nieces and nephews and their families. Krista was born in Owensound, Ontario to Peter Johannes and Lillian Anne Knudsen. Krista accelerated at school despite missing weeks at a time to look after her mother. She later went on to nursing school and became a registered nurse taking her to Denmark and then back to southern Ontario, and eventually out to Alberta. She enjoyed needle point, knitting, and quilting. When she wasn’t sewing, she could also be found in the garden or reading a good book in her rocking chair by the wood stove. Krista cherished her time the most with her late husband Charlie of 53 years, they spent much of their time walking the community paths, gardening, and going for drives.

With respect to Krista’s wishes, no funeral services will be held. In lieu of flowers donations can be made to the Alberta Cancer Foundation.

Visit www.mbfunerals.com to send a condolence.

Remember when Facebook bought a case of Girl Guide cookies to support your daughter?

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Local businesses live here. They play here. They invest here.

They need our support, now more than ever.

Remember when Google provided free pizza to your child’s soccer team when they won the championship?

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Wednesday, June 5, 2024 - CROWSNEST PASS HERALD - 15

Landscaping • Trenching • Trucking

Karson Yakubowski

Landen Yakubowski

Cell 403-563-0811

Cell 403-563-0319

Box 1503 Blairmore AB T0K 0E0 Email abexcavationlck@gmail.com

16 - CROWSNEST PASS HERALD - Wednesday, June 5, 2024