Fernie Fix December 2017 by Claris Media

DECEMBER 2017 | ISSUE 132

The Holiday Issue Feature Artist Alana Minifie-Rybar on what being an artist means to her. Feature Resident Alesha Thompson on giving back to the community. New columnist Shantelle Weir and her take on snowmobiling. Tom Gibson gets serious about core. FERNIEFIX.COM

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EDITOR’S FIX | 5 BUSINESS IN THE VALLEY | 6 Business News/New Business Business Advice with Patty Vadnais – Holiday Time Money Matters – Rental Properties by Gerald Price, CPA CA and Ken MacLeod, CPA CA CGA

ARTS AND ENTERTAINMENT | 16 Feature Artist – Alana Minifie-Rybar At Peace and Yet On Fire with Sadie Rosgen – “With Holidays” Rental Fix – Wonder Woman by Andrew Vallance Musical Notes – Choir Decks the Halls with Fa-la-la-la by Carolyn Nikodym

COMMUNITY AND EVENTS | 24 Feature Resident – Alesha Thompson by Krista Turcasso You’ve Got Male: The Next Chapter by Adam K MacDonald FernieFix.com Events Calendar Family Stoke – Party Time by Shelby Cain

OUTDOOR LIFE | 33 Two Trails Diverged in a Wood by Jeff Colden – Christmas Tree Hunting Full Throttle: Fall in Love with Snowmobiling by Shantelle Weir Never Have I Ever – Wine in Little Italy by Jesse Bell Hurt So Good - Core By Tom Gibson Hitting the Trails: Nordic Skiing at the Fernie Golf and Country Club by Julie Kelly, FTA

HEALTH AND LIFESTYLE | 43 Fernie Flavours by Katie Hamar – Food’s Role in Celebration Fit to Challenge – 11 Years of Fitness by Sarah Ingram, Practicing Kinesiologist Food Intelligence – Healthy Holiday Swaps by Tiffany Schebesch, RD, BASc Family Wellness: Preparing for the Holiday You Want by Dr. Taina Turcasso, N.D., R.M.

BITS AND BYTES | 51 The Answer Guy – Travelling with Your iPhone by Kevin McIsaac Astrology with Yann Loranger

FERNIE FUN | 54 Fix Trivia COVER: It’s looking like a White Christmas! Photo by Kyle Hamilton, Khphotograph.com THIS PAGE: Snowshoeing Lazy Lizard. Photo by Vince Mo, Vincentmo.com

DECEMBER 2017 ISSUE 132

THE HOLIDAY ISSUE

We would like to THANK all y e l l a V k l of our sponsors and supporters. With E s were able to support ree your helpthewefollowing T f o l a v organizations: i t Fes

The Elkford Food Bank • Sparwood Skateboard Park Fernie Friends for Friends • Elk Valley Hospice Sparwood Treehouse Daycare • Toys for Tots Sparwood Community Fund • Jumpstart Fernie Pride Society • The Arts Station Bright Beginnings Preschool • Fernie Nordic Society

Training for basic obedience to complex behaviour AND

Thanks to your support four scholarships have been established that will be awarded to students in the Elk Valley. We can’t wait to see you again next year!

@elkvalleyfestivaloftrees

Day training/training walks Katie Guille, DCBC (Certified Behaviour Consultant)

www.projectk9.ca katie@projectk9.ca • 250-423-0702

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The Good Earth 601 2nd Ave., Fernie, BC | 250-423-7121 | Mon–Fri 10:00 am–6:00 pm • Sunday Closed

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EDITOR’S FIX

he holidays and I go way back.

Growing up, it was the influx of family. The Finnish traditions on Christmas Eve my mom instilled in us. The slow and calm of Christmas Day and dinner in Nana’s tiny house with 30 people, many using TV trays. It spanned the Christmas Tree Hunt in early December to the promise of a New Year on January 1 (with the biggest holiday blues).

personal. Quiet moments, with my sisters and parents. Often my Nana. Sitting in our sunroom late into the night, talking and laughing, reminiscing and drinking wine. Those nights are etched into my very being. Like all things, change is inevitable. And thus, the holidays evolved again… with the addition of children. It’s become exciting and a different kind of magic carries us. What is interesting is it brings back those original memories, and it’s as though we’ve come full circle.

When I left for school, I was that person wearing a Santa hat while madly studying for exams. That person awaiting their exam schedule and calculating how many days before Christmas I would have home (because we all know those days are the most precious of the year, right?).

This holiday season, I wish you happiness and love, wherever you are, whoever you’re with. And that it continues into 2018, bypassing the possibility of holiday blues. Love, gratitude and giving can be with us, all year round. Krista Turcasso Editor This December,Vanessa and I have an abundance of gratitude for two amazing writers who have submitted their last column to us. Thank you, Sarah and Adam.You have helped shape our magazine and will be dearly missed.

This time of year, we often spend a lot of time ruminating… on change, those we’ve lost, chances not taken. But it’s also a time of hope. A time of giving, a time of love. We FERNIE FIX | FERNIEFIX.COM Published monthly by Claris Media. To advertise and for feel more connected and in the moment, and it’s a fantastic opportunity to find ways general inquiries: info@clarismedia.com Box 1124, 361A 1st Ave. Fernie, BC V0B 1M0 to uplift one another and feel uplifted in p: 250-423-4062 www.clarismedia.com return. Each Christmas, I spend a little time Editor | Krista Turcasso Then, there was a lull. A time when I Creative Director | Vanessa Croome remembering all those that came before. I couldn’t get many days off for the holidays. Associate Editor | Carolyn Nikodym find ways to give back to my community All content copyright Claris Media. The views expressed in A time when many of our relatives couldn’t or to those in need. And then, I work hard this magazine are not necessarily the views of the publisher. make it either. “Christmas” changed, and at to be in the moment, enjoying what is first it was tough. It just didn’t feel the same. happening right here, right now. As it truly But it slowly began to feel beautiful and is the most wonderful time of the year. ADAM K. MACDONALD wishes everyone the happiest of holidays. ANDREW VALLANCE is a cinophile nerd who currently lives on the west coast. Girlfriendless, he spends his time going to movies, buying DVDs and flirting. GERALD PRICE of GPI Chartered Profesional Accountants has experience in preparing audit, review and notice to reader financial statements and corporate, personal, estates and trust income tax returns. Gerald enjoys skiing, water skiing, trapshooting and riding motorcycles. JEFF COLDEN is expanding his horizons all the time, always looking for the next adventure in wine, photography and the great outdoors. JESSE BELL spends a Friday night with Alfonso Elia making wine. She discovers the significance of a good grape, a fallen cherry tree, and a great family. A family that makes her feel a little Italian, even if she’s not. JULIE KELLY is the Manager for the Fernie Trails Alliance and loves spending time on the Fernie trails.

KATIE HAMAR grew up in the Maritimes and has lived in Fernie for the past five years. She is a self-professed foodie, wine lover and works as the Sales and Event Coordinator at Island Lake Lodge. KEN MACLEOD can be found playing hockey, golf,curling,biking or enjoying the other activities and culture events that Fernie has to offer.

KEVIN MCISAAC haunts the coffee shops and streets of Fernie to find his column source material. PATTY VADNAIS is the Executive Director of the Fernie Chamber of Commerce, a winter-time wanna-be ski bum, and summer-time golf slice professional. SARAH INGRAM, practicing kinesiologist, is retiring from the Fernie Fix after 11 years! Don’t worry, you can still find her at Evolution gym. If you need help with your exercise program, call 250-423-9167 or visit sarahsactiverehab.com Born and raised in the Kootenays, there’s a reason SHANTELLE WEIR calls Fernie home. Owner of Weir Boondocking Snowmobile Clinics, Shantelle spends her winter sharing her passion for snowmobiling with others.

SHELBY CAIN was raised in the East Kootenays. After spending a decade wandering the prairies - she’s back, baby. Writing and mothering and enjoying her daily dose of #ferniestoke. Her first novel, Mountain Girl, is now available! Tweet her @ShelbyCainWrote DR. TAINA TURCASSO is a naturopathic doctor and midwife practicing in Calgary, Alberta. She spends most of her time catching gorgeous babies, and is slowly inching her way back to Fernie. TIFFANY SCHEBESCH is a registered dietitian and owner of Peak Nutrition Consulting located in Fernie, BC. With a basis in mindful and intuitive eating, she helps clients create lasting changes towards their nutrition goals. TOM GIBSON is all things skiing by winter, all things bikes by summer. “Go fast, be good, have fun, go faster.” YANN LORANGER from Happy-Culture Inc. is your local resource for Astrology, Tarot and Apitherapy. Astrology courses are offered at the College of the Rockies in Fernie. happycultureinc@gmail.com

FERNIEFIX.COM

& Curiosities

TREASURES

Collections are the heart of any museum and tell the ory. community’s st

In a rare peak into the Museum’s vaults, the Fernie Museum presents 150 treasures and curiosities from its collections in its final exhibition celebrating Canada 150.

DECEMBER 1, 2017 to MARCH 31, 2018 Opening Reception: December 1, 7pm A FERNIE MUSEUM SHOP

nicknaultphotography.ca

ARTIST SHOWCASE

Named after the grand department store once located next door, the Fernie Museum’s shop features a curated collection of jewelry, clothing and accessories, home décor, books, and stationery representing Fernie’s geography, culture, and heritage.

Matti Martin | December 1, 2017 to January 31, 2018 Matti Martin’s jewellery is inspired by the simple shapes and form often seen in Fernie’s architecture and the natural beauty of gemstones, rugged landscapes and mountain vistas.

Sarah Pike | February 1 to March 31, 2018 Sarah’s pottery is inspired by the landscape around her home, the rich history of ceramics, and antique tinware, textured metal and other old things found in the barns around Fernie. 491 2nd Avenue, Fernie BC | OPEN 10:00 AM to 5:30 PM DAILY from DECEMBER 2, 2017

461 - 2nd Ave. Fernie, BC 250-423-3532 straightlinefernie.com

Business in the Valley

BUSINESS NEWS

Elk Valley Festival of Trees

he Elk Valley Festival of Trees is an inclusive community celebration of holiday traditions that runs November 17 to December 3 at the Park Place Lodge in Fernie. The Elk Valley Festival of Trees is a registered not-forprofit organization and intends to unite the communities of the Elk Valley in the spirit of giving and celebration while providing for the needs of others and promoting local businesses and not-for-profit organizations.

With each year the festival grows because of the amazing support of sponsors and communities. The committee would like to thank everyone who has supported the Festival including all of the volunteers, photographers, decorators, not-for-profit organizations, Mr and Mrs Claus, Fernie Rotary and the Park Place Lodge. Many new events are in the process of being planned for next year to make the Festival an even bigger event.

V. CROOME PHOTO

Not Just Pizza SUBMITTED IMAGE

Visit ElkValleyFestivalofTrees on Facebook for more details or email evfestivaloftrees@gmail.com.

Fernie Golf and Country Club Golffernie.com

018 marks the 100th year of the Fernie Golf and Country Club. First established in 1918, the original golf course has evolved significantly over the years. Starting with only a few holes in the Prentice Park location, the club added more holes, a clubhouse, grass greens, and amalgamated with the tennis club. The course expanded to 18 holes in 1986 and a new clubhouse built in 1996. Today the Fernie Golf and Country Club A Centennial Celebration on New Years Eve is a renowned 18-hole championship 8::00PM / Fernie Golf Course Club House / $50.00 SUBMITTED IMAGE course in a majestic mountain setting with Tickets available at: Golf Course Clubhouse 250-423-7773 Open to everyone, members and non-members. Must be 19 one of the best views in town from the Clubhouse deck. Numerous centennial events+and celebrations are planned for the 2018 golf season.In 2018 , the Fernie Golf Course turns 100 and we are kicking off the celebration with a NewYears Party! Join us for music , a midnight buffet , special prizes , and a glass of bubbly at midnight to ring in the New Year.

To kick-start the centennial celebrations, they areCentennial hosting an exciting New Year’s party at celebrations will be happening all year long . Follow us ondancing, Facebook and read the Fernie Free Pressbuffet, to stay up to date. the Clubhouse. Celebrations start at 8pm with music, midnight and special prizes. Tickets are $50 available at the pro shop. 250-423-7773.

362 2nd Ave 250-423-9277

ocated in downtown Fernie in Town Centre Market, Not Just Pizza offers an extensive selection of fresh and appetizing pizzas and non-pizza options. All food is made to order and baked in a deck oven. Dough and sauce is hand-made in small batches, including a gluten-free option. Catering to everyone from the hardcore carnivores to gluten and dairy free individuals, popular menu items include burritos, donairs, salads, wraps, pizzas, and potato wedges. This December, consider booking a pizza party for your holiday gathering. Not Just Pizza can cater any size, any time, anywhere in the Fernie area. With just 24-hour advance notice, you can sit back and enjoy the party. Or for those days off the hill with no dinner prep, enjoy their Pizza Happy Hour from 4-5pm or consider their Pizza Party Special – three large, two topping pizzas! Visit Notjustpizza.com for the full menu and more details. FERNIEFIX.COM

The Urban Settler is a one-of-akind lifestyle, design, and dĂŠcor company. Their unique style reflects the seamless blending of the contemporary with the rustic, the modern with the historic, raw solid forms and earthy textures, brought to life with touches of polished style.

Their thoughtfully curated collection of wares -such as modern couches, gorgeous dĂŠcor items, sumptuous bedding, and unique lighting options, are all displayed in warm and inviting arrangements that ignite daydreams of renovation or redecorating.

The Urban Settler also offers full-service professional interior design. They can help you with everything from articulating the perfect idea, with in-home consultations, detailed floor plans, 3D renderings, and project management to complete every detail to perfection.

www.urbansettler.com | 701 2nd Avenue (main floor) | 250-423-0820

Business in the Valley

BUSINESS NEWS

The Royal 501 1st Ave 250-946-5395

he best little dive bar in “the coolest town in North America” is now under new management with the same owners, Julie Comete and Dave Longshaw. Manager Jenn Johnson is responsible for booking acts and running operations at The Royal Hotel, which was erected in 1909.

The Royal has a long history of owners, management, bands, DJ’s and clientele – everyone in Fernie surely has a favourite Royal memory. That dive-bar feel will remain, but changes include upgraded sound and lighting, some aesthetic renovations and a few additions to the beer, wine and liquor selections. This year, locals and seasonaires are encouraged to join the 100 Hour Dance Challenge, which provides a loyalty card including a drink upon entry, front of line access, no cover before 11pm and reduced cover for special events. Don’t miss their sixth anniversary celebrations: December 1 for a local band night and December 2 local DJ’s.

THE

ROYAL F e r n i e SUBMITTED PHOTO

Fernie Mountain Bike Club – Race Team

year ago, Tom Gibson and Mike Bragg brainstormed the idea of a Fernie mountain bike race team en route to Six in the Stix in Cranbrook. Neither imagined the success the team would go on to achieve in its inaugural year. The objectives were to bring people together, encourage people to get into racing and have a good time in the process. All objectives were met with 34 team members, weekly group rides and a great showing at events. FMBC jerseys were seen on start lines all over Western North America and not only did the team take the start line but they also ended the season with top results. Part of the success was due to the support from their sponsors. The FMBC Race Team would like to thank The Guides Hut, Super 8, Teck, Rooftop Coffee, Play it Forward Therapy, Fernie Property Care, SOAR Studios and Fernie Physiotherapy.

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Visit Bikefernie.ca or visit the FMBC Race Team on Facebook for further details or to get involved.

FERNIEFIX.COM

10 Years

January 26 - 28, 2018 @ the Vogue Theatre, Fernie, BC

2009 - 2018

The Early Bird Gets the Worm...

5 Feature Films 5 Short Films Gala Receptions Special Guests

Plus...

Little Reels

Showcase

Yes, Early Bird All Access Passes are now available!

$40/each (Reg. $50) All Festival Pass Holders entered into draw for 2 Wapiti 2018 Passes!

> ReelFilmFest.ca >

Teck Kootenay Cup Hosted by the Fernie Nordic Society

EQUIPMENT FOR MOUNTAIN SPORTS 250.423.6464 432 Victoria Ave. Fernie, B.C. manager@skibase.com

www.skibase.com

A race for nordic skiers of ALL ages and abilities. Located at the Elk Valley Nordic Centre December 30 & 31, 2017 11am - 3pm Register at www.zone4.ca Open until December 27, 11pm (MST)

For more information visit: www.fernienordic.com

Business in the Valley

NEW BUSINESS

MONA Woodworking and Design Co. Mo-na.ca

ONA Woodworking & Design Co. is a bespoke design and build studio owned and operated by Nick Marks. The studio specializes in custom woodworking, custom engraved signage, and graphic design services. Following a path in design, Nick has set out to join traditional woodworking with new advanced tools such as Computer Numerical Control (CNC) Router and laser engravers. His creative background in Fine Arts, Architecture, Graphic Design and Fine Woodworking have allowed him to explore new techniques and applications that cross pollinate these mediums. SUBMITTED PHOTO

You can see Nick’s latest engraved signs around town at the Fernie Brewing Company tasting room, The Valley Social Coffee Co., Four Cubs Kit & Clothing, as well as custom woodworking at Fernie Museum and Element 7 Nine Gold Craft Design. His vision is simple: a hands-on approach with modern technology to produce high-quality products with timeless appeal made in Fernie. For more information visit mo-na.ca or on Instagram @monadesignco.

Wish list: belly rubs new bed

big juicy bone squeaky toys daily romps in fresh snow

Where’s Rebbie 2017 Contest Follow Us on Instagram & Facebook to Win Prizes Daily Including a Samsung Tablet! December 10th - 24th Fernie’s one stop shop to get your pets ready for the holidays. Open 7 days a week for your convenience.

791a 2nd Ave ~ Downtown Fernie, BC 250.423.4332 www.barkside.com FERNIEFIX.COM

Growing the people that power Fernie. The Fernie Chamber helps: Build Your Business • Education sessions • Networking events • Local promotions • Mystery Shopper Program (coming soon) Build Your Community BeyondTheSummitPDD.com Photo

• Advocacy • Employment Housing Connector • Coworking Feasibility Study • Fernie Ambassador Program (next dates Dec 11 and 14)

Join the Chamber of Commerce, Fernie’s largest and most broadlybased business organization. Find out how membership pays for itself.

Strengthening Fernie.

FernieChamber.com

Business in the Valley

BUSINESS ADVICE

Holiday Time by PATTY VADNAIS

tudent life was great. Sometimes I long for the days. The holiday season would come and you would finish the last final, close the books, and start winter break. Most of our work opportunities do not have the same luxury of shutting down from the Thursday or Friday before Christmas until the Monday or Tuesday after New Year’s Day. The holiday season was a time to travel home and visit family, to reconnect with old friends, and to recharge. Adulting does not always allow for the same extended days off during the holiday season as school years did. Our responsibilities to clients and customers influence when we can take a day off, when we need to be at full staff, and when we can shut down. But what about vacation time? Academic studies show that even a short break from work, i.e. four days, can improve one’s health and wellbeing. And vacation time is also found to lower absenteeism and lower stress levels. So, while we know time off is beneficial, and time off during the holidays is coveted, how does a business manage the requests for time off while keeping the doors open and the customers happy? Here are a few strategies to look at to make the most for everyone this holiday season. 1. Plan it collectively. There are some businesses that need all hands on deck during the busy holiday season. If your business is busiest during the holidays, take some time to talk with all team members about the holiday work-load expectations. This conversation on expectations can include discussing days that are available for time off. The days that fewer team members are needed to meet the customers’ needs. Together, your team can figure out how to support each other’s needs.

BUSINESS EXCELLENCE AWARDS 2017 | VINCE MO PHOTO

With this comes the caution of balance and being fair to everyone. Employees with school-aged children or those with family from out-of-town may make those with more life flexibility or local family feel like they get the short straw. Be sure these individuals are not making all the concessions. 2. Don’t be judgmental about how people spend their time off. We all recharge in different ways. Some people ski and some people board, others ride snowmobiles and others fat bike. But seriously, scheduling the time off is not to be judged or prioritized by the employee’s activities. Let people spend their time away from work in a way that suits their needs. 3. Consider a full-scale shutdown. We have seen many restaurants do this in the off-season preparing for the upcoming busy season. Examine if your operation can shut down. A common shut-down is between Christmas Day and New Year’s.

Or, perhaps extend a day or two beyond Boxing Day. Studies show even a four-day vacation can provide health and wellness benefits for employees. If you are lucky enough to get extended time off during the holidays, do not stress about how you spend your time off. One study analyzed how people spent their vacation time. Some did physical activities while others did not. Some spent time socializing while others did not. No matter how the individuals spent their holiday, they reaped the same benefits from time off. The good news in all of this – vacations benefit employees and benefit businesses. The business will see better retention of staff, less stressed staff, and less absenteeism. Take care this holiday season. Be sure to take some time with your favourite people. I hope you can all celebrate the successes of the past year while looking forward to a great future. FERNIEFIX.COM

SHUTTLE & CHARTERS FERNIE, B.C. Calgary Airport â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Fernie Shuttle guaranteed 5 days a week!

Fernie Counselling & Consulting Specializing in Child and Family Care, Play Therapy and EMDR Therapy

Bus/Van Charters Ski Resort Transfers Airport Shuttles Wedding Shuttles

Services Include Family Law Mediation, Child-Parent Relationship Therapy, Anxiety & Depression, Trauma & Loss, Stress Reduction, Grief, Self-Esteem, Eating Disorders, ADHD, Abuse Issues, Crisis Trauma Response

Cheryl Hulburd MSW RSW CPT RPT

250-423-5008 (Toll Free: 866-423-4555) info@mountainhighshuttle.com

(Certified Play Therapist) EMDR CERTIFIED

250-423-2608

C O N F I D E N T I A L A N D P R I V AT E

NOW OPEN SATURDAYS

The purpose of the Communities of Interest Advisory Initiative is to foster dialogue and communication between the five coal operations and community representatives within their area of influence.

COMMUNITY REPRESENTATIVES INCLUDE: Local Government ENGOs Michel Creek/GN Rd Resident Youth

Seniors Business Housing Education Health Care

www.evcnpvoice.com Sign up for the newsletter for more information.

Social Services Community Safety Recreation Users Aboriginal Teck Next month meet members of the team!

Tanglefoot Fernie Vet Clinic would like to thank you for the tremendous support Fernie and area has given us. We are pleased to announce that starting January 6th 2018 we will be taking routine appointments on Saturdays. Hours 9am to 5pm

1161 7th Avenue, Fernie BC 250-423-2620 Tanglefoot Veterinary Services

Business in the Valley

Rental Properties

a loss and you can only claim capital cost allowance against rental profits.

by GERALD PRICE, CPA CA AND KEN MACLEOD, CPA CA CGA

When you claim expenses you need to have records to support the claim if you are audited. That means you need to keep invoices, receipts, contracts, to prove the deductions. Credit card statements and debit machine printouts are not sufficient to prove an expense amount. You must have the invoice that includes a description of the expense, the date, amount, terms and name of vendor.

he Internet has changed the way we live. More than ever before, it is easy to rent a spare room to a complete stranger for their week-long vacation or to rent your entire house while vacationing in Mexico.You can list your property for rent on one of many Internet sites and start watching the money pour in. However, prior to posting that listing you should be aware of a few things. The City of Fernie has adopted Bylaw No. 2325 that provides municipal rules regarding short-term rents. The Bylaw states that you must get a business license and comply with other rules such as inspections, adequate parking, and snow removal. For the complete set of rules contact the City of Fernie. The Income Tax Act requires us to share our wealth with the Federal and Provincial Governments. Rental income is subject to income tax whether it is for a single night or for years of continuous living. Rental income and expenses are reported on form T776 of your T1 personal tax return.You can deduct the expenses you incurred to provide the accommodation; however, if you are renting a single spare bedroom in your house with access to the bathroom, kitchen and living room, you must come up with a reasonable method to allocate shared expenses. Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) publishes Guide T4036 Rental Income to provide information on their interpretation of the law. In the guide, CRA suggests that a property with rental use and personal use must divide expenses that relate to the whole building between personal part and rented area. Using the number of rooms or square metres of use is suggested. You may also have to consider periods of occupancy. For example, consider a scenario for a one-room rental where you

MONEY MATTERS

STOCK PHOTO

More than ever before, it is easy to rent a spare room to a complete stranger for their week-long vacation or to rent your entire house while vacationing in Mexico. have a tenant occupying the room from January to April, your child occupying the room May to August while home from university and the room is empty from September through December.You would only be able to deduct shared expenses on the square footage basis for the four months the room was rented. Current expenses are deducted in the year they are incurred but you can only deduct a portion of capital expenses each year. Current expenses are those outlays that are consumed in the year, such as utilities and supplies like toilet paper. Items such as furniture are considered capital expenses, as they provide benefit over more than a single year. Capital outlays get added to capital pools and only a portion may be deducted each year through capital cost allowance (depreciation). Capital cost allowance cannot be used to create

GST may need to be charged on rent if the rental period is less than thirty days and you are not considered a small supplier. To qualify as a small supplier for GST purposes, you and all of your associated businesses must have annual sales under $30,000. If your combined annual sales from all business activity is over $30,000 you must be GST registered and charge GST on all short-term rents. If your short-term rental business is successful you may get a surprise when you sell your house. Used residential property is GST exempt. However, if the primary use of your house has become short-term rents, rather than your own personal residence, you no longer have a used residential property; rather, you have commercial property similar to a hotel, which is not GST exempt. If this is the case you have also lost the access to the principle residence exemption for that year, meaning that you could owe income tax on a portion of the gain when you sell your house. If you are renting more than four rooms, under BC provincial legislation, you must charge and remit an 8% accommodation tax. Additional municipal and regional district tax of up to 3% may also be applicable. The rules for these taxes can be found in PST Bulletin 120 â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Accommodations. For more information please consult with your professional tax advisor.

FERNIEFIX.COM

Arts and Entertainment

FEATURE ARTIST

Alana

MinifieRybar

When asked to be the Feature Artist for the Holiday issue, I was touched and baffled. Like many working creatives, I don’t often see myself as an artist but as a doer, maker and creator. So, to be referred to as an artist can give many of us creatives a little thrill, a feeling that maybe you have arrived. To work creatively, putting your art out into the world, never knowing how it will be received, is almost an act of insanity, a dance with hope and fear, a delicate tango with that uncompromising foe called uncertainty. Being called an artist is one of the highest forms of gratitude a working creative can receive and it’s never a term I take lightly.

I am a writer, director, producer, choreographer, performer and teacher. But really I am a dreamer, a creator, a risk taker, a maker and a mentor. I create magic on the stage, or at least try to. And, when I say magic I mean that in so many different ways. I mean the way dance, and theatre, song and story cannot only bring joy to an audience, but also the way it can connect and uplift everyone involved, from the performer to the creators, to the community. That, to me, is the real magic. I have been doing “my thing” since I can remember: from childhood, writing stories and choreographing shows that I

forced my brothers and cousins to perform for my family; to working for the Banff Centre; to returning to Fernie to start a performing arts studio that would focus on creating opportunities for youth. I started the studio, Creative Energy Arts Factory, to give local kids the opportunities that I wish I had, the opportunities that don’t always exist in small towns. When I first opened the studio I thought getting 20 kids who love to dance, act and sing would be fantastic. That first year we had 123 kids register. I was blown away. My emphasis is always on collaboration, creativity and joy.You create much more,

not just artistically but in every way, through collaboration and connection and creating a culture of friendship and joy. I’ve always taken the approach that I was creating young artists that would use the mediums I was teaching – like dance, drama and theatre – to create characters and stories that would uplift and inspire themselves and others. All people, especially kids, thrive in this kind of environment. Creative Energy went on to produce many incredible and original shows and performance art pieces, even winning performance awards in Disneyland. During an interview with a journalist after a successful fundraiser my dancers and I put on for a digital mammography machine, I was so moved when she asked how it felt to have changed the face of the performing arts in the Elk Valley. With humility and gratitude I answered back, “simply amazing.” I have always felt a necessity to create art with meaning, and I think battling and surviving cancer solidified that mission even more. I made the commitment to align every project I create or take on with something bigger. It must have meaning and purpose beyond just staging a show or choreographing a dance or

writing a script. I always ask, does it uplift and inspire? Does it make people think, generate emotion or dialogue? Does it bring a community together? Much of my work, and story telling on stage uses dance, drama, mime, singing and music and focuses on the themes of courage, friendship, authenticity, and finding your voice in the world. Although I feel that my work should have meaning and purpose, I also like to leave an audience uplifted and inspired, creating positivity, leaving them with questions and giving them an opportunity to explore their emotions and feelings. In 2016, I made the tough decision to close the Creative Energy studio. It was a bit of a Seinfeld moment really. Everything was going great. We had just finished an incredible adaption of Shakespeare’s Midsummers Nights Dream, but I was experiencing a deadly combination of burn out and boredom. I felt that I had served as much as I could in this capacity. In 2017 I fulfilled another dream and opened a theatre company, the Heart and Soul Dance and Theatre Collective. It’s ever evolving, and continues to be an adventure.

Our inaugural project Under the Big Top, a story about friendship and finding your place in the world, went on to win a BC Platinum Award for Youth Theatre. Our current project Sugar Coated is set to stage on December 2/3 and is best described as a feminist version of the Nutcracker. We’ve challenged all the traditional female roles and given them a modern makeover, but still managed to keep the magic and wonder of the original story. Our youth ensemble is fantastic. For the next project, The Athena Project, I’m stretching myself and following another dream, creating a performance art festival that is women focused. With a degree in Women’s Studies, a love for mentoring young women and collaborating with female artists, this is a dream come true. But, this is a new project and different territory again for me. So, once again I put art into the world and hope that someone finds it meaningful or is changed by it. I will dance with fear and tango with uncertainty, but all the while feeling the blessing that comes with being able to create everyday.

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Arts and Entertainment

AT PEACE AND YET ON FIRE

“With Holidays” by SADIE ROSGEN

ey Fernie! It’s time to get poetic. I love poetry and know you will too! Every month I will team up with some of Fernie’s brightest young writing talent and we’ll collaborate on a given theme. One poem from me, one poem from them. If you are reading this and think that you are that person, drop me a line at sadiepumps@gmail.com. I would love to hear from you! “Poetry is just the evidence of life. If your life is burning well, poetry is the ash.” - Leonard Cohen

looking through the lens of celebration anticipation strikes hard a table is decorated expectations infuriated the time away is here time to reap time to slow time is running out it’s on the wallpaper that distant gasping lullaby from a certain time you always remember in comes a gentle cleansing breath a rumble in the street branches buckling beneath my feet I march the same path I once did callously cold begging to believe I was older than I am now I am older now I once saw these trees as a minefield, a filthy graveyard of the person I neglected now it’s a weighted blanket of discovery recovery and the absolution of my pain letting go is the future that I’ll gain FERNIEFIX.COM

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Arts and Entertainment

Wonder Woman by ANDREW VALLANCE

he Wonder Woman character was created by American psychologist and writer William Moulton Marston, who drew his inspiration from early feminists – such as the birth control pioneer, Margaret Sanger. Wonder Woman first appeared in All Star Comics in October 1941, and has since been published by DC Comics almost continuously except for a brief hiatus in 1986. Wonder Woman became one of DC Comic’s most popular characters, and became a feminist icon in the 1970s when the likes of Gloria Steinem championed her. She also appeared in other media, including a short lived television series which aired from 1975 to 1979. The series starred Lynda Carter as Wonder Woman and Lyle Waggoner as Steve Trevor, Wonder Woman’s love interest.

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But it was not until 2017, after a couple of false starts, including a rejected script by Joss Whedon, that Warner Bros finally brought a Wonder Woman movie to the big screen. The film tells the story of Dianna of Themyscira, the island of the Amazons, and her quest to go forth into the world and destroy Ares, god of war. In the process of seeking out this evil, Dianna assumes the role of Wonder Woman. Gal Gadot plays Dianna. Her film credits include Furious 7, Batman v Superman, and Keeping up with the Joneses. She was a supermodel before turning to acting, and while she has few credits to her name, she still does an excellent job in her portrayal of Wonder Woman. Other notable performances include Chris Pine as Steve Trevor, and Danny Huston and Elena Anaya as the film’s principle villains, two high ranking German army officers. Pine is best remembered for his

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role as Captain Kirk in the latest Star Trek trilogy as well as Hell or High Water (2016) and The Finest Hours (2016). Huston is best known for his roles in Magic City,The Constant Gardener, Children of Men, and most recently in Frankenstein (2015), All I See Is You (2016), and The Last Photograph (2017). Connie Nielsen plays Hippolyta, Dianna’s mother and Queen of the Amazons. Robin Wright is impressive as Antiope, sister to Hippolyta. Both give good performances. The film does, however, have one major flaw. When the Wonder Woman comic started its run in the the ’40s, her adventures took place against the backdrop of World War II, considered by some to be the last “good” war, a conflict that could be framed as a battle against tyranny. Wonder Woman’s adventures in this most recent movie take place against the backdrop of the First World War, a conflict that most people agree had less moral justification, and that could be said to have increased the amount of tyranny in the world. Because of this post-modernist view of WWI, it is difficult to see the Germans as truly villainous. The stakes aren’t as high as they would have been in a WWII scenario. In spite of the differences in the original source material and the film, it still deserves two thumbs up. FERNIEFIX.COM

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Arts and Entertainment

MUSICAL NOTES

Choir Decks the Halls with Fa-la-la-la by CAROLYN NIKODYM

usic is the most unique of creative forms because of the physical changes it causes in the body – for both the musician and the audience. Simply, sound waves cause the eardrum and other inner ear parts to vibrate at the same frequency of the music being heard. Singers double down on this magic by also forcing their vocal cords to vibrate. Basically, when there is a room with musicians, singers and an audience, all are vibrating at the same frequency. Back in 2013, a Swedish study of choral singers uncovered some interesting findings in how the heart rates of the singers synced up when they were singing. When songs required more structured breathing – only at the end of phrases, for example – the more synchronicity there was in the heart rates of the singers. This is especially fascinating when you consider that a person’s heart rate changes speed depending on whether you are inhaling or exhaling. Maybe this is all too scientific, but it makes the ineffable feeling I get listening to music make sense to me. When I recently had the opportunity to watch the Fernie Community Choir warm up for a performance, there was something cathartic about listening to the many voices create a single entity of sound. “I know that research has shown that it really helps with self-regulation for students – helping to calm yourself down – it’s kind of meditative, because you’re focusing on where you’re breathing, how you’re breathing,” explains David Pasivirta, choir director and former Fernie music teacher. Pasivirta discovered his affinity for choral direction while still in high school, where

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Music is the most unique of creative forms because of the physical changes it causes in the body – for both the musician and the audience. he volunteered to run a junior choir with a fellow student. It was homage to his own choir teacher. He wanted to give others what his teacher had given him: helping people find their voices. And not just musically, but also in a holistic sense. And since the choir started – four years ago in January – it certainly has found its voice. It has been performing twice a year since its inception, in spring and at Christmas, and this fall the Fernie Community Choir performed for Octoberfest. The fall performance was a fundraiser for the choir’s trip to Banff in April, where the choir will be travelling to the Canadian Rocky Mountain Music Festival as performers. While performers

compete to get in, the festival itself is not competitive and focuses on professional development of choirs and concert bands. The choir also had renowned choral clinician Dinah Helgeson come to Fernie for an intensive workshop at the beginning of November. “She gave us vocal technique, instruction and she helped place the voices so we had the best possible matching for tone. And it was really helpful and the members of the choir really loved it,” Pasivirta says. “And I did too – it was totally valuable. And I am really grateful to the Columbia Basin Trust for giving us a grant to bring her in. That was a big bonus for us.” For its annual Christmas concert, the choir will be performing a selection of traditional and seasonal songs, from sacred, religious to modern-day carols. It will be a chance to gather and celebrate, a chance to unify hearts and beats. The Fernie Community Choir performs at Holy Family Catholic Church on Friday, December 15 at 7pm.

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Community and Events

FEATURE RESIDENT

BRIAN POLLOCK PHOTO

Alesha Thompson by KRISTA TURCASSO

ast year, we were approached by a new holiday organization for support. This organization, the Elk Valley Festival of Trees, was just getting off the ground and had aspirations to raise funds for ten nonprofit organizations in the Elk Valley. We got on board and were excited to see how the fundraising would go. They had a very successful year, uniting the communities of the Elk Valley in the spirit of giving. There are a few faces behind this organization but one that stood out to us was Alesha Thompson. Owner and operator of Lilac Media, Alesha is often in touch in regards to clients she represents… many who are non-profit organizations. Many, we learned, that she volunteers her time to support. Over coffee, I learn that although Alesha first came to Fernie years ago, she moved here permanently with her daughter (Leela) three years ago this month. She

still had contacts here and touched base with them to help her get settled. “It was pretty rad,” she recalls. With a background in art and a diploma in Print and Digital Graphics from SAIT, Alesha decided to start her own business, Lilac Media just six months after arriving. “I love working with my hands and being creative, and needed the flexibility of being my own boss.”

Alesha also tries to lend a hand where she can with other non-profit organizations, such as Wildsight and the Emily Brydon Youth Foundation. Whether it’s volunteering or offering her professional services, Alesha does what she can to help these important organizations within our community make the biggest impact possible.

To meet new people and get involved with the community, Alesha joined the Fernie Childcare Society board. As Lilac Media grew and evolved, she was approached by various organizations for sponsorship and decided to go with the groups that meant the most to her. With a passion for music, Wapiti was a no brainer. “It’s such a diverse group of people, and a lot of fun,” Alesha says. Last year as the Festival of Trees was getting going, they touched base with her for support. “I liked the idea of raising money for a variety of organizations in need, and decided to help with design and print. This year, I was asked to be on the board so now I’m also helping with ideas, planning and attending events.”

Talking about all of these organizations brings us back to the Festival of Trees. Events similar to this take place in other cities across Canada. Businesses have the opportunity to sponsor a tree, which then is professionally designed and decorated and assigned a non-profit organization. The trees are up for silent auction, and individuals within the community can buy tickets and vote for their favourites. All of the money goes towards the organizations and the “most popular” receives an additional amount in recognition. Throughout the two weeks the trees are on display (at the Parkplace Lodge), events take place including a Tree Lighting, Ugly Sweater party, Date Night, multiple

opportunities to have photos taken with Santa, and the grand finale and Santa Brunch on December 3, 2017. This year, the sponsoring businesses are Finning, Sparwood Futures Society, Teck, Black Gold, Fabrite, Canadian Tire, Park Place Lodge, Cameron Enterprises, Bearspaw, Kaltire and MDG. The trees are raising funds for the Elkford Food Bank, Sparwood Treehouse, Elk Valley Hospice, Sparwood Community Fund, Sparwood Toys for Tots, Jumpstart, Fernie Pride Society, Fernie Friends for Friends, the Fernie Nordic Society, The Arts Station and Bright Beginnings Preschool. The Rotary Club is also doing a Wine Tree Raffle, benefiting the number of organizations the Rotary helps out locally. Each ticket is $20 and the winner wins $1000 at a wine store of their choice. In all, the Elk Valley Festival of Trees is a fantastic way to expose us all to the spirit of giving. We try each December to share new ways to give back within our community, and are always happily surprised to find new opportunities arising. Alesha also is appreciative for these opportunities. “I’ve had to ask for help a lot over the last few years… being on my own as a single mom and starting my own business. Helping other people and organizations is a way for me to give back. It’s hard to ask for help, but we all need help at some point and giving back is a way to show your gratitude. And it makes you feel good!” 1. When did you first arrive in Fernie and what brought you here? The very first time was 2002. Being from Saskatchewan, it was the draw of the mountains and learning to snowboard. 2. Where did you first live in town? In the Hobbit Hollow, the basement suite across from the Pub. 3. What was your first impression? That it was such a male-dominated town

that’s for sure! And I was blown away by the scenery and snow.

7. Where do you see Fernie in 5 to 10 years?

4. What keeps you here?

I feel like we’re in a huge growth phase right now, no homes for sale and no commercial vacancy. I hope Fernie continues with slow growth, but keeps its character and community feel.

I feel it’s such an amazing place to raise my child with so many opportunities for her, and a great community full of awesome people. 5. Do you have a favourite Fernie memory? I think maybe when we brought Leela here when she was two from Golden, we came for a weekend and I took her to the ski hill for the first time on the Magic Carpet on a snowboard. And then we moved here the next year. 6. What is your favourite time of the year in Fernie and why? I hate to say it, but definitely late summer/ early fall because the colours during that time and the ability to still do so many activities. And it’s a quieter time to enjoy Fernie.

8. How do you start your day or what is one of your daily rituals? Most of my days start with a snuggle and kiss from Leela followed immediately by coffee. 9. Tell us something people might be surprised to learn about you. I’m actually really shy. If I’m being open with you and talking a lot, I guess I feel comfortable! 10. Quote to live by: If the plan doesn’t work, change the plan never the goal.

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Community and Events

YOU’VE GOT MALE

The Next Chapter by ADAM K MACDONALD

his is my 64th article for the Fix. And, after 64 articles, almost six years, and approximately 40,000 printed words (half a novel’s worth), my time as a regular contributor with the Fix is coming to an end. In August of 2012, I wrote my first article for the Fix. It was about my wife and I celebrating our first anniversary, and at that point we were a family of two who spent a lot of time with our young black Lab. Today, our Lab has an undeniable amount of gray under-chin and underbelly. And our family just increased to five with the birth of our newest daughter, the newest chapter in my personal life. This month, I would like to celebrate the people who played big roles in my time with the Fernie Fix: First, my friend and writing mentor, Keith Liggett, for giving me the confidence and encouragement to believe in myself as a writer. Without Keith, being a writer would still be on the list of things I wanted to do some day. Thanks, Keith. Second, my wife and main editor, Annie. Annie proofread most of my articles before I hit the Send button. She told me which parts were confusing and which ones she loved. Occasionally she told me it was ready to go, sometimes she told me I had huge changes to make. Usually, the article was somewhere in between. Always, whether I wanted her to be or not, she was right. Thank you, Annie. My articles were always better because of you and your name deserved to be on every one of them.

V. CROOME PHOTO

Next, The Fernie Fix and its staff. Thank you. Thanks for giving your writers lots of freedom and for knowing just when to send a personal note.You have a wonderful magazine. I say that as one of your writers and as one of your readers. Any time we had friends visiting town for the first time, I was excited to show them Fernie’s high quality magazine. Each new month, I’m excited for my Fix to come in.You have played a significant role in my writing career, and you have played a significant role in showcasing and exploring the beautiful community of Fernie. The honour has been mine. Thank you. Lastly, you, the readers. Writing can be a solitary exercise.Yes, my wife would read my work when I was done, and then I would send it off into the miracle of the Internet to Vanessa and Krista at the Fix. But staring at the computer screen, waiting

for inspiration, and turning the idea into a completed article, that is done on one’s own. So, a month later, when someone stops me on Second Ave or at the queue in Overwaitea (someday I’ll switch to calling it Save-On) or in the hall at work, that is a great feeling. Sometimes it was close friends, other times it was total strangers. No matter who, to know that someone took the time to read my whole article, and that it meant something to their day, that has been a big part of my motivation in writing so many articles, motivation that I will be taking forward into future writing endeavours as I move on to the next chapter in my writing life. Thank you, everyone.

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December 2017 MONTHLY EVENTS FRIDAY 1.12.2017 Hearth Holiday Art Sale @ 1480 McDonald Ave, 4-8pm Opening Day @ Fernie Alpine Resort Chelle Power Live @ Infinitea, 8pm Six Year Anniversary Local Band Night @ The Royal, with the 100 Hour Dance Challenge beginning Kid Eh! @ The Northern Elk Run Riot Live @ The Pub Exhibit Opening: Treasures and Curiosities @ The Fernie Museum, 7pm Matti Martin @ The Fernie Museum Shop SATURDAY 2.12.2017 Hearth Holiday Art Sale @ 1480 McDonald Ave, 4-8pm Sugar Coated @ The Arts Station by Heart and Soul Dance and Theatre Collective, 7pm. Art and the Mountains Collide on the Divide @ Island Lake Lodge Fernie Snowmobile Association Gear Swap and Show and Shine @ Elk River Mountain Homes, 9am-4pm. Global Fat Bike Day Ride with the Fernie Mountain Bike Club @ Bike Gazebo, Fernie Aquatic Centre 6pm Elk Valley Festival of Trees: Photos with Santa @ Parkplace Lodge, 11am-1pm Elk Valley Festival of Trees: Date Night @ Parkplace Lodge The Due Clause Trio @ The Northern Six Year Anniversary Local DJ Night @ The Royal SUNDAY 3.12.17 Carolling Jam @ The Arts Station, 1:30pm Sugar Coated @ The Arts Station by Heart and Soul Dance and Theatre Collective, 3pm. Christmas Memories @ Fort Steele. Sleigh rides, skating, The Polar Express and Father Christmas. Indie Films Fernie: A Man Called Ove @ The Vogue Theatre, 5pm 17th Annual Santa Claus Pancake Breakfast @ Parkplace Lodge MONDAY 4.12.2017 Animated movie @ Infinitea, 5pm with free popcorn Wild Ideas Fernie: Light Bright @ Infinitea, 7pm. Alternative energy sources. TUESDAY 5.12.2017 Legends of the Titanic @ Fernie Heritage Library, ages 10+ 3:45pm WEDNESDAY 6.12.2017 Senior Storytime @ Tom Uphill Manor, 1:30pm Lego Club @ Fernie Heritage Library, ages 7+ 3:45pm Light up the Night @ Fernie Courthouse, 4-7pm. Free BBQ and opening of the outdoor skating rink. THURSDAY 7.12.2017 Calendar Kids @ Fernie Heritage Library, ages 7+ 3:45pm Beautea Night with Spa 901 @ Infinitea, 6-9pm Wreath Making Workshop @ Bright Beginnings Preschool, 7pm FRIDAY 8.12.2017 Little Me Playcare Christmas Concert @ Fernie Family Centre, 2pm Five Year Anniversary Party @ Infinitea, local jam from 8pm Beers and Queers Open Mic Night @ The Valley Social, 7:30pm DJ Cona @ The Nothern SATURDAY 9.12.2017 Tutus and Tails: A Sugar Plum Extravaganza for Kids @ The Arts Station, 11am Francophone Tortiere Soiree @ Infinitea, 5:30pm This is Home Fernie Premiere presented by Fernie Freestyle @ The Vogue Theatre

SkiiTour – Winter is Coming Tour with Mister Moffat @ The Northern. Mehditations @ The Royal, Live Reggae SUNDAY 10.12.17 Anatomy for Yoga Teaches with Dr. Claire Wilson, ND @ Essential Yoga Studio Christmas Memories @ Fort Steele. Sleigh rides, skating, Elegant Tea and more. MONDAY 11.12.2017 Free Movie from 7pm @ Infinitea The Holiday Train with Alan Doyle and the Beautiful Band @ The Arts Station/Station Square, 5:15pm TUESDAY 12.12.2017 Popcorn and Holiday Movie @ Fernie Heritage Library, 3:45-5pm ages 7+ WEDNESDAY 13.12.2017 Walkie Talkie Book Club: The High Mountains of Portugal @ Fernie Heritage Library, 10am Senior Storytime @ Rocky Mountain Village, 1pm Secret Elk Society: Make Teacher Gifts @ Fernie Heritage Library, 3:45-5pm ages 7+ Attune @ Soar Studios with Heather Ivany and Tricia Clark THURSDAY 14.12.2017 Wrap and Write @ Fernie Heritage Library, 3:45-5pm ages 7+ FRIDAY 15.12.2017 Fernie Community Choir Christmas Celebration @ The Holy Family Catholic Church, 7pm Drum and Bass and Ski School Rookie Party @ The Royal Shred Kelly @ The Northern, 10pm SATURDAY 16.12.17 Community Christmas Celebration @ Fernie Heritage Library, 2-4pm Two-Day Ladies Riding Clinic with Stephanie Schwartz @ Elk Valley Shepherds AST 1 @ Mountain Addicts. Two-day course for those venturing into the backcountry. A Fernie Holiday Story by Tunnel Theatre @ The Arts Station, 7:30pm. Michael Bernard Fitzgerald @ The Northern, 10pm Ben Fox @ The Royal SUNDAY 17.12.17 Modern Mindfulness @ Essential Yoga Studio, 4:30-6:30pm Christmas Memories @ Fort Steele. Sleigh Rides, skating and more. Orphan Christmas Dinner @ Infinitea, 6-9pm ROH Balley Nutcracker Screening @ The Vogue Theatre MONDAY 18.12.2017 Free Christmas Movie @ Infinitea, 7pm Jingle Jam @ The Kodiak Annual Gang Wars with Cona @ The Royal TUESDAY 19.12.2017 Popcorn and Holiday Movie @ Fernie Heritage Library, 3:45-5pm ages 7+ WEDNESDAY 20.12.2017 Senior Storytime @ Trinity Lodge, 1:30pm Grandma’s Christmas Vinyl with Jay Ray @ the Senior’s Centre. 11am-2:30pm. Free and open to everyone. Plaid Party & Potluck @ Fernie Heritage Library, 11:15am – 12:30pm, ages 0-5 Secret Elk Society: Make Teacher Gifts @ Fernie Heritage Library, 3:45-5pm ages 7+ THURSDAY 21.12.2017 Wrap and Write @ Fernie Heritage Library, 3:45-5pm ages 7+ Pizza League @ Fernie Heritage Library, 6pm ages 13+ Sleigh Rides @ Fernie Alpine Resort, running until January 5

CHECK OUT THE FERNIE FIX EVENTS CALENDAR ONLINE AT FERNIEFIX.COM FRIDAY 22.12.2017 Griz Kidz Craft Night @ Fernie Alpine Resort Two-Day Learn to Fly Aerial Workshop @ Essential Yoga Studio Ugly Sweater Christmas Party @ The Kodiak Lounge Mertz @ The Royal DJ Cona @ The Northern Lantern Kids Crafts @ The Arts Station, 3pm Carolling by Candlelight @ The Arts Station, 5:30pm SATURDAY 23.12.2017 Ski and Photos with Santa @ Fernie Alpine Resort Night Skiing @ Fernie Alpine Resort, 4-9pm AST 1 @ Mountain Addicts, an essential two-day course for those venturing into the backcountry. Fernie Yacht Club Plaid Xmas and Food Drive @ The Royal The CCR Experience with Pals Country Smokes @ The Northern SUNDAY 24.12.2017 Ski and Photos with Santa @ Fernie Alpine Resort Night Skiing @ Fernie Alpine Resort, 4-9pm Christmas Eve Tortiere and Mulled Wine Night @ Infinitea, 6-9pm Ugly Sweater Party with Goffles Waffles @ The Royal MONDAY 25.12.2017 Homestyle Christmas Dinner @ Cirque Restaurant TUESDAY 26.12.2017 Kids Ski and Snowboard Camps Begin @ Fernie Alpine Resort, running to the 29. Griz Kidz Riglet Snowboard Demo @ Fernie Alpine Resort Night Skiing @ Fernie Alpine Resort, 4-9pm until January 6 Boxing Day Candy Eating Competition @ The Kodiak WEDNESDAY 27.12.2017 Griz Kidz Gingerbread House Decorating @ Fernie Alpine Resort THURSDAY 28.12.2017 Cozy Corner @ Heritage Library, 2-4pm. Stuart McLean stories, hot chocolate and games. First Chance Youth Rail Jam @ Fernie Alpine Resort, ages 15 and under Burn n’ Mahn Duelling Pianos @ The Northern, all request all night! Get Down Party with Naturalist DJs @ The Royal FRIDAY 29.12.2017 Cozy Corner @ Heritage Library, 2-4pm. Stuart McLean stories, hot chocolate, games and scavenger hunt. Tea and Talk Book Club @ Fernie Heritage Library, 1:30pm Griz Kidz Mini Carnival @ Fernie Alpine Resort Jenn Frost and Straus @ The Royal SATURDAY 30.12.2017 Teck Kootenay Cup #1 @ Elk Valley Nordic Centre, register at Zone4.ca. The Runs – Fernie’s Explosive Rock n’ Roll Band @ The Northern SUNDAY 31.12.2017 Teck Kootenay Cup #2 @ Elk Valley Nordic Centre, register at Zone4.ca. NYE Family Event and Fireworks @ Fernie Alpine Resort NYE Dinner and Party @ Cirque Restaurant Legendary Griz Bar NYE Party @ The Griz Bar New Year’s Eve Roast Dinner @ Infinitea, 6-pm New Year’s Special Three-Course Dinner @ Max Restaurant New Year’s Eve Party @ The Pub Classic Ski Bum New Year’s Party @ The Kodiak Fozzy Fest presents Good Vibes New Years @ The Royal Centennial Kick-Off New Year’s Party @ Fernie Golf and Country Club

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December 2017 WEEKLY EVENTS

DINING, NIGHTLIFE and SPECIALS MONDAYS

Pair it up Appies @ Boston Pizza Pool Tourney Mondays @ The Pub Lasagna Specials @ Elk Valley Pizza Shoppe Wing Night @ The Fernie Hotel Free Movie Night @ Infinitea Massage Mondays @ Trillium Day Spa Ladies Night @ The Northern Local Jam Night @ The Kodiak Lounge Free Pool @ The Royal Store and Tasting Room Open @ Fernie Brewing Company Snowshoe and Dine @ Fernie Alpine Resort

TUESDAYS

Gourmet Pasta Specials @ Boston Pizza Wing Night @ The Pub Bar & Grill Pizza Night @ Elk Valley Pizza Shoppe Two for Tuesdays @ Trillium Day Spa Beer, Burger and Bingo Night @ The Northern Cheap Night @ The Vogue Theatre Dinner and Swim Special @ Fernie Stanford Resort Karaoke @ The Royal Half Price Appetizers @ The Fernie Hotel. Store and Tasting Room Open @ Fernie Brewing Company Tasting Night @ The Loaf Pasta and Wine Night @ Cirque Restaurant

WEDNESDAYS

Parent Power Hour @ Fernie Chamber of Commerce Dominoes, Duplicate and Mahjong @ The Seniors Drop in Centre Pickleball @ Fernie Community Centre Indoor Walking @ The Community Centre Preschool Climbing @ Evolution Ladies Only @ Fernie Old School Boxing Parent Tot Funtimes @ Knox United Church StrongStart @ Isabella Dicken Elementary School Drop in Gymnastics @ Elk Valley Gymnastic Club ages 0-4 Tiguidous – Learn French While Having Fun @ CBAL Office Public Swimming @ The Aquatic Centre

TUESDAYS

Crib/Whist, Chess and Drop In @ Seniors Drop in Centre Storytime Ages 3-5 @ Heritage Library Ladies Archery @ The Elks Hall Junior Boxing @ Fernie Old School Boxing Club Indoor Walking Program @ Fernie Community Centre Open Climbing @ Evolution English Conversation Cafe @ CBAL Office Drop in Climbing @ College of the Rockies StrongStart @ Isabella Dicken Elementary School Fernie Community Choir @ The Fernie Arts Station Kindergym @ Fernie Family Centre Family Early Years Hub @ Fernie Heritage Library

Nacho Night @ Boston Pizza Fish & Chips @ The Pub Bar & Grill Meat Draw and Members Draw @ The Fernie Hotel Date Night Special @ Spa 901 Fish & Chip Night @ The Pub

SATURDAYS

Kids Pool Party, BBQ and Movie Night @ Lizard Creek Lodge Meat Draw & Bar Quiz @ The Legion Coffee and Baileys Special @ The Bridge Bistro Vinyl Appreciation Night @ Infinitea Rib Night @ Max Restaurant and The Pub Open Mic Night @ Fernie Hotel

THURSDAYS

Pizza Night @ Boston Pizza Jam Night @ The Brickhouse Hot and Cold Cocktail Night @ Infinitea Featured Pub Burgers @ Max Restaurant & The Pub Bar & Grill Burger and Beer Special @ The Fernie Medium Pizza Special @ Elk Valley Pizza Store and Tasting Room Open @ Fernie Brewing Company Pub Team Trivia @ The Pub Bar & Grill Thirsty Thursdays @ Kodiak Lounge

OUTDOOR & FAMILY MONDAYS

FRIDAYS

High Flyers Pool Comp @ Kodiak Lounge Wings Night @ Boston Pizza Wine Evenings @ The Brickhouse Trivia Night @ The Fernie Hotel Waxing Wednesday @ Trillium Day Spa Wing Night @ The Northern Wax On Wednesday @ 901 Spa Store and Tasting Room Open @ Fernie Brewing Company Zak’s Jam Night @ The Royal Pizza and Wine Night @ The Loaf Half Price Ice Bar @ Lizard Creek Lodge Ice Bar Tarot Readings @ Infinitea

Seniors Programming

Hip Hop Sundays @ Kodiak Lounge Cocktail Specials @ Cirque Restaurant Kids Specials @ Boston Pizza Caesars on Special @ The Brickhouse All day breakfast @ The Fernie Roast Dinner @ Infinitea Dinner and Swim @ Fernie Stanford Resort Curry Sundays @ The Pub Caesars Special @ The Bridge Bistro Roast Dinner @ The Loaf

Kids Programming

Free Guided Meditation @ Soar Studios Public Swimming @ The Aquatic Centre

WEDNESDAYS

Crib, Gentle Exercise and Tai Chi @ Seniors Drop in Centre Adult Badminton @ The Community Centre AA Meetings @ The Anglican Church Basement Competitive Boxing @ Fernie Old School Boxing Club Toddlertime Ages 0-2 @ Fernie Heritage Library Indoor Walking Program @ Fernie Community Centre Open Climbing @ Evolution English Conversation Cafe @ CBAL office StrongStart @ Isabella Dicken Elementary School Kindergym @ Fernie Family Centre Celebrate Recovery @ Mountainside Church Knit Clique @ Fernie Heritage Library Drop in Gymnastics Ages 0-4 @ Elk Valley Gymnastic Club Public Swimming @ The Aquatic Centre

THURSDAYS

SUNDAYS

Preschool Climbing @ Evolution Morning Yoga, Drop in, and Canasta/Cards @ Senior’s Centre Pickleball @ Fernie Community Centre RC Club @ Fernie Community Centre Community Basketball @ Fernie Secondary School

Swim

Library Program

Other

Mixed Senior Recreational Boxing @ Fernie Old School Boxing Youth Archery @ The Elks Hall Bellies to Babies @ Fernie Women’s Centre Open Roller Skating @ Max Turyk Gym Indoor Walking Program @ Fernie Community Centre, StrongStart @ Isabella Dicken Elementary School Free Guided Meditation @ Soar Studios Public Swimming @ The Aquatic Centre

FRIDAYS

Cribbage @ Seniors Drop in Centre Jitney Darts @ Fernie Legion Toddlertime Ages 0-2 @ Fernie Heritage Library StrongStart @ Isabella Dicken Elementary School Kindergym @ Fernie Family Centre Public Swimming @ The Aquatic Centre

SATURDAYS

Karma Meditation Class @ Essential Yoga Studio Open Climbing @ Evolution Prenatal Yoga @ Essential Yoga Public Swimming @ The Aquatic Centre

SUNDAYS

AA Meetings @ The Anglican Church Basement Public Swimming @ The Aquatic Centre Guided Meditation @ Soar Studios FERNIEFIX.COM

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www.montanefernie.ca | 250-423-4136 | info@montanefernie.ca This is not an offering for sale. Lots are sold under a disclosure statement. All maps are for relative location purposes only and are not to scale. All materials and photos, features, dimensions, specification, improvements and amenities depicted or described herein are conceptual in nature and subject to change or cancellation (in whole or in part) without notice. Certain photographs may not have been taken at the site and views are not from a particular lot.

Community and Events

FAMILY STOKE

Party Time by SHELBY CAIN

t’s party time. The snow is falling and the people that deliver the mail look like they want to burn Amazon to the ground. We are entering the season of the annual holiday soirée. That’s right. It’s time to cut loose. But when you live in a place where dinner jackets come in plaid, Uggs are acceptable footwear on a date, and said date entails a beer and a bonfire … well, we have to step up our game, people. Let’s get to it. There are three essential categories I feel require some special attention come party season. It is time to put in some effort.You heard me. So dig in, and keep reading.

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Clothing. When preparing for a Christmas party, the first dilemma that we have to examine is, what are you going to wear? Sadly, because some of us have acquiesced to an overly comfortable wardrobe over the years, a lot of people simply answer, “this.” As in, whatever they happen to have on at the moment. Now, I have nothing against Carhartt’s and FBC T-shirts and a High Roller hat. Really, I don’t. But what if we all reached deeper into the closet. Men, go past the toosmall plaid shirt you never wear, past the hockey jersey, and before your wedding suit. Anything there? Itchy sweater, maybe? Come on. Dig deeper. Find that black button up you used to wear anytime anyone celebrated anything. Old faithful. Put it on. And if you have to ask, “is this too wrinkled?” the answer is yes. Always. Now, you have a choice. The tight dark blue jeans that pinch you after you start to bloat, or the dress pants that go with the suit. There you go, now you’re stylin’. Ladies, I’m not as worried about you. We all kept the tight jeans and the black top for just this occasion. Or maybe it’s the stretchy black dress that requires Spanx. Not that you ‘d wear them, I’m not asking for miracles, but you know the one. It’s

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been out of commission for a while, but we can make it work. Get a wet cloth and wipe off the white deodorant stains from last year’s Christmas party, dig around in your drawer until you find those blingy earrings that hurt after an hour, and haul out the fancy make-up you keep under the sink.You know. The party make-up. Now, don’t hold back. Footwear. Men, this one works in your favour.You can pretty much pull off anything from the new runners you bought for Crossfit to your wedding shoes that you only wore once. Don’t wear your golf shoes, I know it’s tempting, and don’t even try to get away with the giant steeltoed rubbers that go to your knee. I know it’s snowy, but you’ll be okay. Okay girls, we’re in tough on this one. It’s gotta be the heels. And here’s why. If we don’t wear them now, we never will. Skip one major event, and they begin to look like the absurd foot-wreckers they truly are. Those heels will be covered in dust and bagged up for the Sally Ann before Easter. So, have a pre-game shot of Fireball and

strap those babies on. Fluff up the cleavage. You look great. It’s party time. Dance Moves. Here’s where we have to be careful. For your health. When the magical hour arrives, what moves are you prepared to break out on the dance floor? Think. Are you instantly flashing back to that time you pulled off an epic worm at your brother’s wedding? Did you hold that opening handstand just a second longer than necessary, your feet poised in the air and the crowd gasping and calling your name? When your chest contacted the floor, did your spine follow in a perfect assembly of vertebrae – one after the other – until your knees made contact with the floor and your chest rocketed back up for the next full coil? Remember that? Yeah. That was awesome. But you’re old now. Dance accordingly. I recommend a shuffle, a head bob, and a slight overbite as you scan the room with smolder. The smolder is money. But if you think you can still pull that epic worm off without needing traction? Giv’er. Have fun out there, and happy holidays! FERNIEFIX.COM

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Outdoor Life

TWO TRAILS DIVERGED IN A WOOD

Christmas Tree Hunting by JEFF COLDEN

s the Christmas season approaches every year, the reruns of the great Christmas movies come on TV. Everyone has their favourites of course; a Miracle on 34th Street, It’s a Wonderful Life, or for the less traditional, Die Hard. Then there are some we would just as soon as forget. For me there is one I never seem to avoid, National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation. I’ve always wondered if the beginning of the movie, as Chevy Chase tortures his poor family with an all day journey to get the perfect Christmas tree, did more for the artificial Christmas tree market than anything else. Most of us live in Fernie for the access to the great outdoors, yet in the shoulder season, once mountain biking has wrapped up and before skiing starts, many of us hole up inside, waiting for the snow. One of the many blessings of living here is that it could not be easier to get your own tree. 94% of British Columbia is Provincial Crown Land, much of it surrounds us here in the Elk Valley. As a resident of British Columbia, you are entitled to retrieve one Christmas tree per year from Crown Land without applying for a permit, of any kind. You only need to print off and fill in a free use permit form from the Government website. To find it, just google “Rocky Mountain Christmas tree permit.” Permit in hand, you can now set forth on your very own Christmas tree adventure. A Christmas tree only lasts for about four weeks, so you will want to go get yours in early December. As there is often snow on the ground by then, this leaves you one of two options. For the more energetic, you can get out the snowshoes and head into the woods, perhaps up Coal Creek, or down towards Morrissey. For those looking for a tamer path, head down to south country, south of Highway 3 towards the

FIND YOUR CHARLIE BROWN | VINCE MO PHOTO

As a resident of British Columbia, you are entitled to retrieve one Christmas tree per year from Crown Land without applying for a permit, of any kind. Canada-US border. The ground is quite flat, by local standards, and makes for an easy walk, especially as there is often very little, if any, snow on the ground, so the walking is easy. While walking through the woods looking for your very own tree, your eyes may play tricks on you. Remember that everything looks a lot smaller in the woods that in

your living room! This is a good time to bring up another Christmas classic, A Charlie Brown Christmas. Trees in nature bear much more resemblance to Charlie Brown’s famous Christmas tree than to the perfectly balanced and pruned farmed trees. Look for a tree that has mostly evenly distributed branches and remember that one side can always be strategically oriented towards the wall. No matter which tree you choose, it will have a character all its own and new memories to match. While getting your own tree is not an annual tradition for some, it is at least a rite of passage. So get a thermos of hot chocolate, bundle up, and grab your saw. Go out and complete the rite, and maybe just start your own annual tradition. FERNIEFIX.COM

photo credit: Raven Eye Photography

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Outdoor Life

FULL THROTTLE

Fall in Love with Snowmobiling by SHANTELLE WEIR

ome call it snowmobiling, but we call it sledding. Imagine hanging onto someone’s back, ripping along at high speeds, occasionally in the dark. These are some of my first memories on a sled. Not really my idea of fun, but for some reason I always went along, even though fear was at the forefront of my mind. What on earth was the appeal? How could someone enjoy hanging on to one of these heavy, noisy machines in the first place? What changed my mind? It all started when I met this great guy, one of our first dates was a snowmobile outing. Just imagine how thrilled I was. Oh great, here we go again, I thought, hanging on to this beastly machine, with him in total control of my life, at breakneck speeds. Some mental preparation was involved, I told myself I can do this but I was definitely a little nervous. And then came the life changing moment. Andy was going to let me ride my own sled. First, how am I going to keep this thing on the trail without being sucked off into the deep, never-ending snow? Will I be stuck with no way out, while he is off having a blast? Or will I have to heave and pull and quickly become exhausted? Will I end up hating this sport even more? This wasn’t exactly meeting my expectations of a fun date! However, after being shown some tricks, something in me changed and I started enjoying getting out there and riding my own sled. It was the beginning of a romance with both Andy, who is now my husband, and snowmobiling. Andy has been teaching people how to ride for years and has developed a bag full of tricks to make the journey enjoyable. Going right back to the basics, he taught me about body positions and where and why to utilize them. We would spend the day practicing throttle

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control, downhill turns, side hilling, and technical lines. If I didn’t want to be stuck up to my armpits in powder I would have to use these skills. I am not very big or very strong so I have to rely on these skills to get me places I want to go. This was a huge challenge for me, but one that I accepted and grew to love. It feels like I have found the perfect sport that keeps me challenged, and coming back for more, and I’m just lucky to live in the perfect part of the world for it. Our sledding dates continued and now we both teach snowmobile clinics for Weir Boondocking. I understand how intimidating this sport can be, especially at first. I love these clinics because I can support and encourage the kind of growth I experienced through patience and determination. It’s amazing to watch a transformation in attitude and ability. From greeners to go getters! I’m so thankful that these skills I’ve developed have enabled

me to thoroughly explore this beautiful place we call home, and teaching clinics has given us the ability to share it with the community we live in. The last number of years have been a true adventure and sledding has turned into an unexpected passion for me. The places we have been, the epic scenery, the challenges, and the excitement, helps keep us alive and well. Not everyone enjoys sledding right away because there is a learning curve and some skill involved to it. However, you really don’t have to struggle and muscle the machine around and get stuck at every turn, if taught the proper techniques, sledding can be for everyone. I want people to know that it doesn’t have to be that hard. It really can feel more like riding a bike. So take the leap! Learn the proper technique and positioning, fast track the learning curve and fall in love with the backcountry that much faster.

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Outdoor Life

NEVER HAVE I EVER

PHOTO BY JESSE BELL

Wine in Little Italy by JESSE BELL

our years ago we buy a house in Fernie’s Little Italy. The backyard is half garden; cherry, plum and apple trees, asparagus along the fence. Rose bushes soft pink, peonies deep red. We find a jug of old wine hidden beneath a loose step to the basement. A simple house, our first house, in Fernie. Over the fence one day our neighbour, Alfonso Elia, hands me some homegrown beans. A few weeks later his daughter-inlaw Lois passes me a container of spaghetti. That September, to my delight, Alfonso gifts me a bottle of wine.

As I walk the few short blocks home, I can’t think of a better way to spend a Friday night than making wine in Alfonso’s garage in Fernie’s Little Italy. “We make a’ wine in the garage,” he says, his Calabrese accent thick despite 60 years in Fernie. “You come a’ make sometime.” Alfonso, always generous, looks after us the way a good neighbour should. Time passes; we buy a new house, move. Though I don’t particularly miss the old house, I immediately miss our neighbours.

Then, at the grocery store this September I run into Alfonso, now 90. “We make a’ wine this Friday,” he says. “You come to make a’ wine.” So, I go. On a Friday night mid-September I arrive at Erminia and Alfonso’s house. I’m barely inside the garage before handed a glass of wine. Naturally, making wine is also about drinking wine. There’s a spread of sliced cheeses, prosciutto and figs, and 19 boxes of fresh grapes from California ready for crushing. Alfonso’s son Emilio and grandson Darren trucked the grapes in from Calgary’s Italian Supermarket. Each box of grapes weighs 36 pounds, and makes ten litres of wine.

The grapes are dumped into a handcranked crusher that rests on a barrel. The crusher breaks grape skin, and the juice sits, allowing for tannins to emerge. The juices and grapes are scooped to another barrel to ferment for a week, then pressed into a demijohn (large glass jug), ferment another three weeks (or six, depending on the grape varietal), and put into another demijohn to age two months more—in a nutshell. Emilio and Gino run me through the steps, tell me a bit about Alfonso. “Making wine was something we had to do as kids,” Emilio explains. “A chore. Everyone makes wine in Italy. Dad brought it here.” Alfonso and Erminia moved to Fernie in 1958, a runaway love story from Calabria, Italy. Promised to others, the pair eloped and moved to Canada. Alfonso worked with the City of Fernie, and together they raised three boys. This past July, Alfonso and Erminia celebrated their 65th anniversary.

I crave more history, but Alfonso’s grandson Christian pours me a second glass of wine and leaves me distracted. We eat, sip, crush. Emilio pours everyone, Alfonso included, homemade limoncello in a crystal glass. Suddenly, I’ve three drinks to tend to. How did this happen? “To Alfonso,” I say. We toast. The limoncello is sweet, strong with alcohol. I walk with him to the backyard, a flutter beneath my feet. “We miss a’ you,” Alfonso says, and gently taps me on my forearm. “We miss you too, Alfons.” I look over the fence we used to share; the cherry tree in the backyard has fallen, the garden overgrown. How strange to look upon a place you used to call home when it no longer is. Nostalgic, bittersweet. Back inside the garage, Alfonso takes charge.

“Take it eas’,” he says to the boys.Voices grow louder. Everyone, myself included, is a little loosey-goosey – no surprise with an endless supply of wine. Before long, plates of prosciutto and figs are empty, grapes crushed. I tell Emilio I feel rather sauced when he interrupts me. “Have a wine, have a chip, you never get drunk,” he laughs, and passes me a cracker. The night comes to an end. I thank Alfonso and the rest of the Elia family, tell them I wish I were Italian, and leave with a bottle of homemade wine (to drink with dinner over the holidays). The threegeneration wine-making affair leaves me flushed with envy – it’s also the wine. Truthfully, I feel a little Italian tonight, with credit to the Elia’s. As I walk the few short blocks home, I can’t think of a better way to spend a Friday night than making wine in Alfonso’s garage in Fernie’s Little Italy.

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Outdoor Life

HURT SO GOOD

PAUL’S CORE CLASS AT EVOLUTION | PHOTO BY MATT KUHN

Core by TOM GIBSON

n this new segment I’ll be exploring some of Fernie’s other, less obvious and maybe lesser-known fitness activities. Those of you looking to try something new, or trying to pass the time through these long dark nights – this is for you. Each month I’ll be sacrificing myself all in the name of research.

it have a positive affect on performance, it can also reduce the risk of taking time off due to injuries. Increasing strength through our core can take pressure off other more susceptible parts of our bodies, creating a more balanced and powerful body. I hit up three different classes this month, all with their own unique personality.

First up was Core Yoga with Katie Joyce at SOAR. Apart from some too little, too late stretching after skiing I’ve never really taken part in a yoga class. Katie promised This month I put my core muscles to work, I’d be able to keep up and wouldn’t be too well lack of core muscles. As an avid bike embarrassed. Her class was great, the hourrider and racer in summer and alpine and long early morning class found muscles I Nordic skier through winter I really should never knew I had. I really liked the way increase my core strength. Not only will

Katie increased the difficulty of each move as the class went on. The class focused on slow, thoughtful movements, holding form and moving with delicacy. The class concluded with slower more relaxation style moves, which was a great way to finish. I may not be blessed in this area but managed to be somewhat successful. Regardless of experience, everyone would benefit from Katie’s class. While some poses were challenging, nothing was too advanced. The second class I tried was Francesca’s Core Class at Essential. By this time I had a few yoga classes to my name and felt a little more confident. Francesca’s class was quicker paced with harder poses. Less about

movement and way more finding those muscles deep in our core area. It didn’t take long for me to get my sweat on. Some of the sequences were really tough. Each one held just long enough to really feel it but not too long that I would collapse on my yoga mat, almost like Francesca had done one or two classes before! This class is certainly not the type of class you can just rock up to with zero core, I would strongly advise to try some easier classes before jumping in. However if you feel you have a decent base then this class will really help you discover muscles you may have previously missed. With the guidance of Francesca, this is a great class for those looking to really improve and get strong. My final class and certainly the one that I was most intimidated by was Paul Attalla’s Hard Core Ball Class at Evolution. Paul gave me a friendly warning about his class, which had me curious about what was to follow. It was 110% from the first second. Paul’s energy was contagious, as was that of the other super humans in the room. He jumps through a variety of moves, reps and stretches; the furious pace of the class was what made it so challenging. At first it was difficult to keep up, but I quickly got into the rhythm. Even though each set of reps was challenging, there was an easier option that I was only more than willing to use! After the first 45 minutes the class moved into a circle with everyone kneeling on their ball. The group played an intense game of what can only be described as “hot potato” while balancing on a ball. The idea is to utilize all core muscles and coordination while fatigued, replicating times when you’re forced into making a move while fatigued in your sport. Maybe it’s a Bode style recovery whilst skiing or saving a front wheel washout at the end of a long descent. A base fitness level and willingness to push yourself will help with this class. Next month I’m doing some body maintenance, going in search of ways to keep our bodies in top condition so we can make the most of our amazing winter.

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Outdoor Life

HITTING THE TRAILS

FERNIE GOLF AND COUNTRY CLUB | PHOTO BY V. CROOME

Nordic Skiing at the Fernie Golf and Country Club by JULIE KELLY, FTA

Distance: 10-12 km Time: Approx. 1-1.25 hours Difficulty: Green

his is a great time of year to celebrate how lucky we are in Fernie to have so many winter activities to choose from. Each sport has numerous locations and terrain choices. Specifically for Nordic

skiing, you can choose from the Fernie Golf and Country Club, Island Lake Lodge, Elk Valley Nordic Centre, Fernie Alpine Resort and the Montane area. A great place to start early season is the Fernie Golf and Country Club. They generally open early, depending on snowfall of course. It is easily accessible from town with parking available at the Clubhouse. And the terrain is mostly flat, making it suitable for all levels. From the parking lot I like to go down the hill by the Clubhouse, continue straight then stay to the right and loop around. Once you get back to the Clubhouse

continue straight and take the left up the hill that parallels Fairway Dr. I like to do a few hill repeats to work on technique and get the heart pumping a little bit. Head back down the hill, continuing straight following the track, which parallels Fairway Dr. Loop back to the Clubhouse with one final push up to the parking lot. If you donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t have a Fernie Nordic Society season pass there is a box by the Clubhouse to deposit your $10 daily fee. Please respect the No Dogs policy. If you would like to bring your pooch along please check out Montane or Fernie Alpine Resortâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Nordic trails.

FERNIEFIX.COM

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Health and Lifestyle

FERNIE FLAVOURS

Food’s Role in Celebration by KATIE HAMAR

hen I was growing up, my mom asked me each year what I wanted for my birthday dinner. For many years, it was fajitas and chocolate cake. Something about this combination further solidified it was my day. I was queen of deciding what was for dinner and the day felt extra special to me for this reason. The role food plays in celebrations is significant. Peanut butter balls are only made at Christmas, barbecues are indicative of long summer nights and Thanksgiving goes hand in hand with turkey dinner. Reuniting with a friend you haven’t seen in a while? Go to a restaurant. Why do our celebrations involve food? There are two reasons: we either celebrate with food or for food. Celebrating with food involves a reward for or an accompaniment to an already great situation. When something good happens like a promotion at work, we want to reward ourselves with something delicious.You’ve accomplished something; treat yourself! Similarly, we nurture our loved ones with food by cooking for them or taking them out when we want to make them feel special, cheer them up or build on a relationship. For thousands of years, sharing food has signified trust and closeness. Nourishing another with food is an act of love. In these situations, we celebrate notable moments and important people with food. Celebrating for food dates back centuries. Throughout history and in the present day, food has been scarce for much of the population. Having enough food to go around is a sign of abundance beyond sustenance, and it is a cause for celebration. Within cultures where agriculture was the main source of community survival and prosperity, seasonal events were held

CHRISTMAS HOLIDAY CELEBRATION | PHOTO BY JESSE BELL

where prayers were offered for an abundant harvest. Over the years, these occasions evolved into festivals of celebration that feature the same themes of abundance and gratitude. Korea’s Chuseok Thanksgiving Day and Britain’s Lammas Harvest Festival are a couple of examples. Food is one the most vibrant parts of a culture. A group or family’s culture could involve the belief that the holidays are synonymous with peanut butter balls and hazelnut crescents. To take these goodies away would not only mean they’d miss them, it would also be changing their

culture. Likewise, Fernie’s culture includes its restaurants, food trucks, and foodcentred events. Food is a significant part of the community’s customs and what makes the city the place we love. The role food plays in celebration is deeply rooted. It is a reward for an accomplishment, an expression of love, and an important cultural custom that instills tradition. Sometimes, having sufficient food and loving people to share it with is the cause for celebration. Sometimes, the birthday brings the fajitas and chocolate cake. FERNIEFIX.COM

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Health and Lifestyle

FIT TO CHALLENGE

11 Years of Fitness SARAH INGRAM, BSC.HONS.KINESIOLOGY, BCAK PRACTICING KINESIOLOGIST

hen Krista contacted me back in the fall of 2006 to ask if I would do a three-article series on ski season fitness in her new magazine I was excited. I have always loved writing and I am passionate about fitness and educating people about how to be their healthiest self. I never imagined that this phone call would lead to 11 years of monthly articles. A wedding, name change and two babies later, this is my 132nd column and my last. So in the spirit of celebration, I want to share with you some of my favourite and least favourite memories. Proudest moment. I had a new client come in with a photocopy of the Fernie Fix article “Exercises to Prevent Neck and Low Back Pain” (July 2014) that his doctor had given him to get him started on his rehabilitation. Favourite “celebrity” moment. “Dad, did you know Levi’s mom is actually a superhero?” Comment from a friend about his son seeing me in, “Superhero Exercises to Build Superpowers.” (July 2016) Close second is being recognized as the girl from the Fernie Fix at a Ghostrider game… followed by the comment, “Wow, I thought you would be way taller.” Favourite article. “March Madness Workout Game.” (March 2014) I normally try not to read my articles once they go into print because I am always my worst critic and there is nothing you can change once something is in print. This one, however, I cut out, glued to some cardboard and played often with my kids, clients and friends. If I could have you cut out and keep one article… It would be the dynamic range of motion warm up. Also known as

SARAH AND LEVI, 2011 | V. CROOME PHOTO

the “Pre-ski Routine.” (January 2007) This simple list of ten range-of-motion exercises is such a great way to keep your body in motion and out of pain. Close second, “Roll Away Sore Muscles” (December 2014) because foam rollers are amazing!

Did I really do that? “Pumpkin Workout.” (October 2012) Perhaps this was when I really let my ego go for the greater good of the magazine and put on a Mexican wrestling mask and worked out using a pumpkin as a medicine ball.

Least favourite picture. In the “30-minute Kitchen Work-out” (Nov 2014) I decided to really get into the article so my kids and I dressed up in full ’80s attire, blasted ’80s music and did ten different exercises each for one minute. Vanessa was there to capture it and while my kids look adorable, my outfit was not that flattering!

Article I got the most feedback from: “It’s All About Balance” (Aug 2017) This was the first time I strayed from giving fitness advice and got personal about how I like to spend my time unplugged on the weekends. It was also the most vulnerable I ever felt handing in an article. Close second: “June Abs Challenge” (June 2014, 2016, 2017) The only topic I did more than once because who doesn’t like great abs in time for the summer?

Favourite picture: “New Mom’s Springing Back into Shape.” (April 2011) The pictures that went with this article on how incorporate your baby in your workout were of my then-seven-monthold son being used as a weight for shoulder presses. Whenever I look at this picture, I can remember his giggles every time I hoisted him up.

Thank you to Krista for that phone call 11 years ago,Vanessa for taking all those pictures and to all my readers for your positive feedback. Good health and happiness to you all, Sarah.

FERNIEFIX.COM

Health and Lifestyle

FOOD INTELLIGENCE

Healthy Holiday Swaps by TIFFANY SCHEBESCH, RD, BASC

olly can’t wait – her countdown has started and there are only 25 days until Christmas! She’s already embarrassing her children by blasting holiday tunes in the car and decorating the house top to bottom in green and red tinsel. What she’s not excited for, however, is the inevitable six pounds she gains at Christmas every year. This is the one yearly holiday that seems to really kick her in the butt, she’s officially dedicated a pair of jeans one size bigger as her “Christmas jeans.” She doesn’t want to be a downer by not attending her holiday function invites, but she feels that this minor weight gain over the years is really starting to add up. Holly visits her local Fernie dietitian to get some advice on how to survive this holiday season in a healthy, sustainable manor. Top five tips for a healthier holiday season: 1. Make modifications. Holiday dishes are often laden with extra calories that don’t add a lot of flavour. Try these swaps to lighten up your favourites: roast potatoes in olive oil and use low fat milk instead of mashing potatoes with cream and butter; choose white turkey breast and skip the skin instead of dark meat; make homemade cranberry sauce to cut out added sugar and make sure to have lots of vegetable dishes available to choose from; And remember, just because it’s “holiday food,” you don’t have to eat it. Unless you truly get satisfaction from a dish or treat, don’t eat it – I’m looking at you Aunt Edna’s fruit cake! 2. Balance out your plate On Christmas, studies have shown we may eat up to 6000 calories… in one day! This is more than three times what most of us usually eat in a day. This point goes to prove

SUBMITTED PHOTO

that how much, is just as important as what you put on your plate. Start by loading half your plate with colourful vegetables,

skip the cream sauce on these and opt for seasoning with fresh herbs and spices. The rest of your plate should be broken into

one quarter grains and starches; this could look like half a cup of mashed potatoes, and half a cup of stuffing. The final quarter of your plate should have your lean protein, such as a deck of cards sized slice of turkey breast. 3. Plan your home for success. The countless holiday events, family dinners and work parties seem to create a holiday that is a month long, rather than the one day like Thanksgiving. Although the myriad of social events may be inevitable (and fun!) planning to keep a “healthy holiday household” will allow you to make smart choices the rest of the week. Stock your fridge with loads of fresh veggies, whole grains like quinoa and lentils. and lean proteins like tuna and tofu. Pack your breakfast, lunches and healthy snacks to avoid grabbing too many holiday cookies from the staff room.

Although we can’t “outrun the fork,” spending an extra 60 minutes a day outside could burn up to 600 calories and give you a big hit of feel good endorphins. Try spending your weekends out on the slopes, walking through town or making snowmen with your kids in the backyard. 4. Play in the snow. We’re so fortunate to live in a beautiful ski town, which provides endless hours of outdoor activities. Although we can’t “outrun the fork,” spending an extra 60 minutes a day outside could burn up to 600 calories and give you a big hit of feel good endorphins. Try spending your

weekends out on the slopes, walking through town or making snowmen with your kids in the backyard. It doesn’t matter what the activity is, just ensure you’re getting your heart rate up for at least 30 minutes every day! Bonus, this also limits the time you’re inside mindlessly snacking on holiday leftovers. 5. Create a plan. While all these ideas are great, they’re not going to be much help if we don’t implement them. Research has shown that setting goals each week will increase our chances of actually following through with them. Some great examples could be to walk for 30 minutes, five days a week or to have a balanced breakfast every day. Write down each goal, and post it at eye level in your house so you’re sure to follow through! Keep these five healthy holiday tips in mind to have a joyous and happy season while feeling strong come the New Year!

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Health and Lifestyle

FAMILY WELLNESS

ISLAND LAKE EXCURSION | VINCE MO PHOTO

Preparing for the Holiday You Want by DR. TAINA TURCASSO, N.D., R.M.

t may be hard to believe, but the holidays are suddenly upon us again. Every year we get caught up in the hustle and bustle, planning parties and dinners, buying gifts, and losing all sense of self-care that we may have established beforehand. What ends up happening is that the holidays pass frenetically in a blur of obligation and before we know it, it’s over and we feel sick, tired, and maybe even a little disappointed. This year, try to have the holiday season that you and your family wants, maybe even needs. It is possible to come through the holidays and be a little bit healthier and happier, instead of the other way around.

This year, try to have the holiday season that you and your family wants, maybe even needs. It is possible to come through the holidays and be a little bit healthier and happier, instead of the other way around. Here are five ways to create a healthy and happy holiday: 1. Intention. The first (and perhaps most difficult) step is to sit down with your family and figure out what you, collectively as well as individually, want from your holidays. Do you want to spend more time outdoors? More time together as a family? More time volunteering? Eat healthier meals?

Which events that you’ve gone to or hosted in the past have been your favourite? Do you want to decorate more? Or less? Maybe even take a minute and do a quick visualization exercise to help get some inspiration around what your ideal holiday might look like. Be choosy, and make a list of the things that you determine to be the most important to you and your family. 2. Do/buy less. All the parties and activities for you and your kids may sound fun in theory, but in practice it’s a different story between gifts, snacks, scheduling, outfits, and ultimately, time. Make a short list, and only plan to participate in the things that really work towards creating the holiday you envisioned. Explain to friends and family why you are doing this, and maybe they will be motivated to do the same.You will truly get more out of the things that you

3. Fit your “self” in. As the time before the holidays really picks up, we tend to just dive into the festivities head first, abandoning all of our good habits. It’s kind of like a cascade of unhealthy eating and inactivity starting slowly with one thing, and leading to complete abandonment of everything that keeps us healthy and happy. This year, work really hard to prevent this from happening. Make a plan to fit in some of your self-care (including your healthy diet and exercise). Maybe this means that you commit to having a healthy breakfast and lunch everyday, and being more flexible with dinner and snacks. Maybe this means that everything stops at 8pm for your nightly

bath ritual. Maybe this means that you fit in 30 minutes of exercise ever day, even if it means getting up a bit early, or having a babysitter look after the kids. Stay true to your self-care rituals, whatever they may be. This self-care will not only help you enjoy things in the moment, but will also help you to feel well, both physically and mentally, when the holidays abruptly end. 4. Practice gratitude and kindness. It may seem like a no-brainer, but gratitude and kindness are two of the simplest ways to enhance your holiday season (and your life) and, as a result, the holidays of others. If you have kids, make it a fun exercise every morning to list something you are grateful for, and plan an act of kindness for the day. It will turn into something fun, and maybe even a healthy challenge between members of your family. Focusing on gratitude and being kind to others will be particularly helpful if the holidays are a tough time for you, as they are for so many. These practices will help to divert your own challenges into something positive.

5. Be in the moment. Once you’ve done all of this prep and have narrowed down your list of activities/gifts etc., just stop and enjoy everything you have decided to do. Wherever you are, just be there taking it all in and not worrying about the next thing. It’s really ok if you forgot to pick up cranberries, missed sending a card to someone, or don’t have a new dress for your Christmas dinner. These events in our lives will happen whether we are ready for them or not so at a certain point you have to just let it go and enjoy the moment. Otherwise, what is the point of doing them at all? This list may be simple, but if you implement even one or two of these ideas into your holiday planning, you will notice yourself enjoying things more fully and being more present with your family, and hopefully you will have an easier time settling back into normal life in January. Have a wonderful holiday season!

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i fi n t e

do over the holidays if you do less of them. The same thing applies with gift giving. Try a gift exchange with your family or friends so that you buy one really nice gift rather than a bunch of meaningless things. Consider giving the children in your family only one gift rather than a bunch of things (and I know how hard this can be).

-B

Bou

ti q u e

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Bits and Bytes

THE ANSWER GUY

Travelling with Your iPhone

Watch your data limits though. Uploading 20-30 pictures to Instagram or Facebook will eat up 20-30MB in no time.

by KEVIN MCISAAC

Also, if you’re doing this, go into your Settings - Cellular and turn off cell data for everything you’re not using. And turn off background app refresh in Settings General. This will keep apps from eating up your data while you’re not looking.

can still remember when travelling around a foreign country meant buying a Lonely Planet and a phrase guide and a relentless search for Internet cafes to try and communicate back home. These days, I just bring my iPhone.

It’s also worth checking your commonly used apps, such as Facebook. Facebook’s advanced settings let you turn off Cellular Data, and HD video and audio.

With my iPhone I have a map, compass, phrase book, translation dictionary, camera, research tool, message sender, phone, and a flashlight for finding the toilet in the middle of the night. To make the most use of your iPhone there are several things you should do before you go. And what you should do depends a bit on how you intend to use your phone. If you want to use your phone, but don’t want to spend too much money then the best way to travel is with airplane mode on and wireless on. As long as airplane mode is on then you will not have any cellular charges.Your phone is still surprisingly useful in this mode. Let’s start with maps. It is possible to use Google Maps offline, but the process is not simple nor is it easy to use. A far better bet is Galileo Pro. The app is free, but maps cost money. $1.99 gets you three maps. $5.99 gets you all of them. Simply pick the maps of the places you are going and download them before you leave.You can do most things that Google Maps will do, with the exception of street view. It’s very fast to load and the GPS locator is the fastest I’ve seen in any app. This is the best map application for your phone. Get Whatsapp. In Canada and the US it’s not as popular as most people simply use SMS or Messenger, but in the rest of the world it’s the communication app. It also let’s you message, make calls, and group chat via wifi, no cellular connection

V. CROOME PHOTO

needed. It’s secure and easy to use. And when you’re travelling and want to contact a guest house, driver, restaurant, or almost anything, having their phone number is enough to put you in touch. The group chat is perfect for travelling with a group that is not always together, but wants to coordinate. Or you can add all your family members and get your “All Okay” message out to everyone at once. Add Uber and/or Lyft and set up an account before you go. In Canada it may be controversial, but not in most countries. Add a VPN app, if you’re concerned about communication security. I use Private Internet Access, which costs about $60 a year. It ensures that no matter where I connect, all my online communication is secure. Note, that this is becoming less important as time goes by, as Gmail, bank apps, Facebook, etc. are all moving to HTTPS (secure) connections only. If you want to use your phone as a phone while travelling then consider contacting your provider. Most have travel plans that let you use a limited amount of voice minutes and data. From Telus these run around $10 a day to $30 a month and go up from there depending on the country.

The last option is to go local. This means buying a SIM card in the country you’re in and swapping it into your phone. These are prepaid SIM cards that come with a local phone number and a stack of minutes and data. If you’re somewhere such as the Sahara desert (and I’ve tested this) wifi is hard to come by, but cellular connections are almost everywhere.You’ll still be able to use your phone. Note – you must unlock your phone before you can do this. As of December 1 you can have your phone unlocked for free in Canada. Do it. Don’t wait until you need it. Just unlock it. As soon as it is unlocked you can change your plan and you can change your SIM. Most major airports will have a kiosk somewhere that will sell you a SIM card. And cellular costs in most countries are vastly cheaper than Canada. For example, in Portugal you can buy a SIM card from Vodaphone that gets you 500 minutes and 5GB of data for a month for about $30. Just don’t lose your current SIM card. I recommend keeping one of those plastic cases that come with memory cards and writing SIM on it. Happy Travels. p.s. If you have any specific questions for the Answer Guy send them to info@clarismedia. com. Chances are good that if you want to know others do too. FERNIEFIX.COM

Fernie Writers’ Series 2017 Presented by the Fernie Heritage Library

WINTER 2018!!

2 2 2 2 2 ESI EDUGYAN January 10, 2018

JOSEPH BOYDEN

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Bits and Bytes

December 2017 by YANN LORANGER

he most dramatic aspect of December takes place on Winter Solstice and will remain active through Christmas. It is a conjunction involving Saturn, the Sun and Venus in Capricorn. It marks the beginning of Saturn remaining in Capricorn for three years, an impressive shift encouraging us to apply great ideas instead of simply talking about them

ince we all have a little bit of each sign within us, consider each of the following as addressing a specific part of yourself. Read it all for every aspect within yourself.

Aries (March 21 - April 29) Winding Down Your impulses have hit a wall. A wall made by the good will of a nation ceaselessly working to find the solutions for its own future. The plain conviction, logic and grounded attitude of the people erecting this wall allows you to finally slow down and understand that you don’t have to keep going with the same keen but ignorant energy as usual.

Taurus (April 20 - May 20) Hope You feel the change, with winter and the longest night of the year you know that the forces of light somehow vanquished darkness because you will feel light growing within.You’re not 100% comfortable, but indubitable hope cheers you up.

Gemini (May 21 - June 20) Tardiness The vastness of the ideas brought to you these last months are beyond your grasp. You stay tuned to them trying to make sense of it all, but try not to miss the concretization train that passes by in late December as those ideas start transforming into reality.

[A conjunction] marks the beginning of Saturn remaining in Capricorn for three years, an impressive shift encouraging us to apply great ideas instead of simply talking about them. Cancer (June 21 - July 22) Self-Confidence You know that taking care of your feelings is essential in bringing stability in a time of change and are determined and empowered to do so. Throughout winter celebrations, you bond, share and care for family members and friends.

Leo (July 23 - Aug 22) Consciousness Shift Throughout December certain lights will turn on within you.You finally understand that the new progressive ways proposed by so many are not endangering you nor your personal interest. It will bring evolution for all since your natural charisma makes you so influential.

Virgo (Aug 23 - Sept 22) Eagerness You have heard enough promises and sweet words, and are now ready to see them come to fruition.Your patience is getting slim towards inapplicable concepts.

Libra (Sept 23 - Oct 22) Lukewarm You’re not too concerned with the impact these changes will have on your relationships.You’re attached to certain ways of dealing with people, including those closest to you and feel that this will shift as well.Your imagination will help you decide how this change will occur.

ASTROLOGY

Scorpio (Oct 23 - Nov 21) Catalyst You feel the power in your hands. Nothing will happen without your consent. It is up to you to say yes or no. Behind this lays the right to vote and the wit of our democratic system.You must vote for each one of your own actions to enable them to be part of this big shift.

Sagittarius (Nov 22 - Dec 21) Revelation Your inspiration leads you into unprecedented understanding.Your journey shines brightly allowing you to have a sense of the future. Alongside Christmas preparations, plan for moments of introspection and meditation.

Capricorn (Dec 22 - Jan 19) Exposure This is your time to explain to the world why you behave like you do. Why you enjoy solitude and come across as so serious. Those around you are looking to you and awaiting your help.Your virtues will shine.

Aquarius (Jan 20 - Feb 18) Reality Check You’re impressed by the steps being undertaken. For a long time, you’ve had the naive concept that you could work towards an idea without it affecting your personal life. Now you realize that your most personal energies have to be fully committed.

Pisces (Feb 19 - March 20) Blessing You are connected to the source of inspiration that keeps our world balanced. When making a difficult decision that demands courage and that transcends your actual situation, you need comforting and you need love. December is all about this exact love for you!

FERNIEFIX.COM

Fernie Fun

FIX TRIVIA

ferniefix

FernieFixMag

FernieFix

SPOT THE DIFFERENCE Can you spot the five differences between these two images? Have a picture to submit for Fernie Fun? Send it to info@clarismedia.com.

WHAT AM I RIDDLES Credit: Riddles.com

1. A slender body, a tiny eye, no matter what happens, I never cry. What am I? 2. I am useless when together but useful when I am broken apart. What am I ? 3. I can be written, I can be spoken, I can be exposed, I can be broken. What am I?

FIND THE Somewhere in this issue is a santa hat. Can you find it?

ANSWER SPOT THE DIFFERENCE NOVEMBER

Credit: Pexels.com

ANSWERS TO WHAT AM I RIDDLES:

1. A needle 2. An egg 3. News

Happy Holidays We wish everyone in the Elk Valley and Crowsnest Pass a safe and happy holiday season.

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