Fernie Fix February 2018

FEBRUARY 2018 | ISSUE 134

THE SIMPLIFY ISSUE Feature Artist Wild Wolves and how they are inspired by simplicity in nature

Feature Resident Marsha Curchill on balancing entrepreneurship, health and family

Jeff Colden discusses being out in nature, time alone and reflecting

Tiffany Schebesch talks about how we can simplify our diets for a healthier heart

Dr. Taina Turcasso on four impactful steps that can improve your health.

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BUILDING A SUSTAINABLE FUTURE IN THE ELK VALLEY We are excited to announce an important change at CanAus Coal Limited. Effective immediately, we have changed the name of the company to North Coal Limited and launched a new brand identity.

Our overriding goal is to make a meaningful contribution where we live and work through a commitment to safe operations, collaboration and sustainable management of the land and resources.

While our name and look have changed, our core values and commitment to transparency, accountability and innovation remain the same. We will continue to work cooperatively with First Nations and communities to address important issues, maintain open, honest and continuous dialogue about our future plans, treat people with dignity and respect, and operate in a responsible manner.

Be sure to keep an eye out for the launch of our new website northcoal.ca coming soon.

NC Ad Fernie Fix.indd 4

Should you have any questions about North Coal Limited, please contact our office at 778-518-0775.

2018-01-18 12:25 PM

2:25 PM

FEBRUARY 2018 ISSUE 134

EDITOR’S FIX | 5

COMMUNITY AND EVENTS | 24

BUSINESS IN THE VALLEY | 7

Feature Resident – Marsha Churchill Planning Ahead: Managing Burnout While Parenting Your Cat by Kerri Wall Family Stoke – Letting Go

by Shelby Cain Out and About with Rebecca Hall Not Keeping Up

Business News/New Business Making Social Media Work Optimize Your Facebook Page

by Christina Pilarski Business Advice with Patty Vadnais – Simplify and Personalize the Route to Purchase Money Matters – Shareholder Remuneration: Wage or Dividend

by Jaime Hanson, CPA

ARTS AND ENTERTAINMENT | 16 Feature Artist – Wild Wolves At Peace and Yet On Fire with Sadie Rosgen and Featuring Anna Schmidt: The Haiku Rental Fix – Top Movies of 2017

by Andrew Vallance Musical Notes – Keep Calm and Listen to Music by Carolyn Nikodym

RECREATION AND OUTDOOR LIFE | 35 Two Trails Diverged in a Wood

by Jeff Colden – Whose Woods These Are I Think I Know Full Throttle: Learn to Adjust Your Machine by Shantelle Weir Never Have I Ever – Big Bang Bagels

by Jesse Bell Hurt So Good – Best Year Yet

by Tom Gibson Hitting the Trails: Running in Montane

by Julie Kelly, FTA

HEALTH AND LIFESTYLE | 45 For the Love of Food

by Katie Hamar – Comfort Food

THE SIMPLIFY ISSUE

The Find – Simple Pleasures

by Crys Stewart Food Intelligence – Simplify Your Diet for a Healthy Heart

by Tiffany Schebesch, RD, BASc Family Wellness – Simplify Your Health in Four Easy Steps

by Dr. Taina Turcasso, ND, RM

BITS AND BYTES | 55 The Answer Guy – Data Loss

by Kevin McIsaac Astrology with Yann Loranger

FERNIE FUN | 58 Fix Trivia COVER: Nathan Froehler entering a sparkle tornado during a five day ski camp at the height of the Purcell mountains.

Photo by Jordan Boratynec @jordan.boratynec THIS PAGE: Dana McMahon contemplating life on ice above the Bull River. Photo by Ben Ross @snowaydude

Griz Days

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Griz Days Parade The Griz Competition Plaid Pub Crawl

Party in Plaid • Fireworks Live Music in Station Square Refreshment Garden Rocky Mountain Lumberjacks Craft Fair

For more information call the Fernie Chamber of Commerce at 250-423-6868 Pick up your Griz Days Magazine in town mid February!

www.ferniegrizdays.com/registrations

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EDITOR’S FIX “Everything should be made as simple as possible, but not simpler.” ~Albert Einstein

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o often people say, “You’re so busy.” And immediately you might feel… insulted.

Like, somehow you are doing something wrong. Perhaps I should be slowing down, you might think, and “smelling the roses.”

Start my day with meditation. Make more coffee dates. Go for long, slow walks along the river…

First of all, busy is subjective. Second, I am so done with the word “busy!”

What if we focused on fine-tuning life and its many facets, to make the most of family,

work, friends, and interests? We’ve all tried to “downsize,” so to speak, (probably after hearing the above…) and if you’re like me, you have in many ways (learning how to say “no” is a great start), but inevitably what happens is… you’re invested, you’re interested, and the commitments you make are sincere and dear to your heart. They fit with you and your life, they make your life richer, they challenge you and they keep you keeping on.

I say it’s all about finding what’s right for you. What makes you feel alive, what connects with your core values and intentions. How can you have the most impact, both in your life and in that of others? If this is what fills your schedule, you won’t feel busy.You will feel fulfilled.

Albert, you were so right. While it’s important to make it simple, let’s not focus on simpler. It’s fantastic to rise to the occasion… push ourselves, push others, fight for our right, and to live the way that fits best with you. And to the rest, learn how to confidently and firmly say, “no.”

Krista Turcasso Editor FERNIE FIX | FERNIEFIX.COM Published monthly by Claris Media. To advertise and for general inquiries: Clarismedia.com Box 1124, 361A 1st Ave. Fernie, BC V0B 1M0 p: 250-423-4062 www.clarismedia.com Editor | Krista Turcasso Creative Director | Vanessa Croome Associate Editor | Carolyn Nikodym All content copyright Claris Media. The views expressed in this magazine are not necessarily the views of the publisher.

CONTRIBUTORS 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.

CAROLYN NIKODYM invites you to use the power of music to rejuvenate, reinvigorate and re-invent yourself.

CHRISTINE PILARSKI of CIPR Communications believes in the power of meaningful relationships and strategic engagement, both on and offline.

After a 35-year career in publishing, CRYS STEWART now takes epic road trips with her husband back and forth from Fernie to their cottage in Ontario. When she’s not writing, taking photographs or riding shotgun, she’s sharing a good glass of red with family and friends.

JAIME HANSON is a staff accountant at GPI Chartered Professional Accountants.

When she is not busy bean counting, she enjoys the great outdoors and experiencing all that Fernie life has to offer.

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 morning making bagels and drinking coffee at Big Bang Bagels this past summer. She thinks a bagel on the way to the ski hill is the best idea there is. Or on your way home. Or to nowhere, just bagels.

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.

KERRI WALL does healthy public policy work for IH, and mediation/parent coaching/group facilitation on the side. You can find her online at kerriwall.ca.

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.

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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.

KEVIN MCISAAC haunts the coffee shops and streets of Fernie to find his column source material.

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.

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.

TOM GIBSON is all things skiing by winter, all things bikes by summer. “Go fast, be good, have fun, go faster.”

REBECCA HALL hasn’t done it all yet, but she’s working on it. She loves the Everly Brothers, new ice, and William Morris motifs.

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

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ANGELA MAGLIOCCO SilverLiningEvents@shaw.ca 250-430-7818

Business in the Valley

BUSINESS NEWS

NEW BUSINESS

Birr Wearebirr.com

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new marketing agency has been established in Fernie by Jude Smith and Kyle Hamilton. birr offers a full suite of marketing services and was responsible for The Fernie Elf this past December which created an audience of millions across social media and prime time TV.

Mother Nurture Doulas Mothernurturedoulas.com 250-946-6322

M

other Nurture Doulas is excited to welcome Sally Bevand to the team of DONA trained and certified Doulas serving the Elk Valley and South County with prenatal education, pregnancy support, birth doulas, breastfeeding education and support, and postpartum care.

Sally’s journey began after the birth of her second child. Her first birth was empowering but it was the intimate homebirth, supported by midwives and a doula, of her second child that demonstrated the value of doula support. She believes that every birth experience is as unique as every woman, and supporting them and their partner through their birth experience is inspiring work.

TECK covers the majority of the birth doula fee and if you identify as First Nation your fee is also covered.

Both Sally and Rachel look forward to supporting local families on their 2018 birthing journeys.

For more information, visit their website, call them directly, email mothernurturedoulas@gmail.com or visit their Facebook page - Ferniedoula.

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birr is already working with clients in Fernie and Cranbrook and is looking to engage with more businesses and organizations that want to get more from their marketing spend.

The team at birr offers the local business community an alternative to seeking marketing partners in “The Big City.” They offer big-city agency services and quality with smalltown Kootenay charm. Don’t worry about sitting at a drab, downtown boardroom table in the city – they will help you develop a creative marketing strategy right here, which gives you more time to enjoy the local lifestyle.

Cedar Valley Wood Floors 250-430-3012

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re your wood floors starting to look worn? You may feel that your wood floor seems too old and beat up to be restored. It could be that you’re worried about clouds of dust billowing out the windows while your floor is being sanded.

Cedar Valley Wood Floors can restore your wood floors with minimal dust. They also offer a maintenance coating service for those floors that just need some refreshing. With 20 years of experience, they install solid or engineered hardwoods, both unfinished and prefinished. They offer onsite sanding and finishing, complete restorations, and custom staining, all while offering environmentally SUBMITTED PHOTO friendly finishes. They can source and supply materials and are happy to work with residential homeowners, contractors, developers and designers.

Jared Robinson, owner of Cedar Valley Wood Floors, is currently working towards being a Bona Certified Craftsman. Call directly or visit their page on Facebook or Instagram at Cedar Valley Wood Floors.

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Having trouble finding exactly what you want?

We can build it.

Every project at River City Woodworks is completely custom and the final outcome is always driven by your vision. Call us.

info@rivercity.ca | ph: 250.423.3331 | www. rivercity.ca

Business in the Valley

NEW BUSINESS

Fernie Copper Works Ferniecopperworks.ca 250-423-0292

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im Popowich can hardly contain his enthusiasm about his new business, Fernie Copper Works Inc. After a long career in sheet metal, he went back to school and participated in the TIOW at the College of the Rockies. After 14 weeks of training with the College he was accepted into the small business program through WorkBC. Upon completion, Popowich was ready to start his own venture, and for the first time, he feels like he’s being creative.

Working with a natural material such as copper allows for one-of-a-kind projects, tailored specifically to each client’s needs. Popowich builds strong relationships with his clients and is involved at every step, from planning, to fabrication and installation. His passion and love for what he does is evident in his work.

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Fernie Feminists Present The Vagina Monologues

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his February, a group of local Fernie women are incredibly proud to be launching a production of Eve Ensler’s award winning and internationally acclaimed play, The Vagina Monologues, to raise money and awareness for local and international organizations that work to stop violence against women and girls.

This world-renowned play, currently celebrating its 20th anniversary, is based on Eve Ensler’s interviews with more than 200 women. With humour and conviction, the piece celebrates women’s sexuality and strength through real women’s stories of intimacy, vulnerability and sexual self-discovery.

Performances will take place at The Fernie Arts Station on Friday, February 9 at 7pm and Saturday, February 10 at 1 and 7pm.

Tickets are available for $15 at Polar Peek Books & Treasures or from any cast member.

10% of all proceeds go to V-Day and the remaining 90% will be donated to the Fernie Women’s Resource Centre.

EVE PERFORMING VAGINA MONOLOGUES | JOAN MARTIN PHOTO

In the January issue of the Fernie Fix, Silver Lining Events’ contact information was printed incorrectly.They can be reached at 250-430-7818 and via email at silverliningevents@shaw.ca.They also now have a FB and instagram page with additional details. Our apologies, Angela.

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The Urban Settler is a oneof-a-kind 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, Fernie, BC | 250-423-0820

Business in the Valley

MAKING SOCIAL MEDIA WORK

Optimize Your Facebook Page

by CHRISTINA PILARSKI

Y

ou started January with that BIG goal of ensuring your social media presence reflects your goals, personality, and tells the story of your business. Now think about one platform at a time as you simplify your big goal into a few manageable ones. This month, prioritize your Facebook Page.

Who should use Facebook? Everyone.

Facebook has this incredible ability to reinvent itself and stay relevant. We complain after Facebook makes a change but we end up embracing it; today over 1.8 billion people are Facebook users.

Why Facebook for your business?

Facebook users are a bit older; over 70% are adults, which means they can make consumer-driven decisions. This is a good thing for your business. Facebook tracks all sorts of data points related to users making it very simple for businesses to find their target audience – for example, did you know that there are just under 1,000 people in a ten-mile radius of Fernie that are interested in home improvements?

Facebook just told me that. And finally, Facebook now owns Instagram. This social media giant is now acquiring other social platforms and integrating features, advertising, and management.

Facebook is not going away. Over two billion searches for people, businesses, and products are performed on Facebook each day. Make sure you show up when your target market is searching by optimizing your Page in these four ways: 1. Examine the Settings In the main navigation bar of your Facebook Page Settings are on the top right. Make sure your settings reflect your target audiences, your goals, and your business. Add featured Pages to showcase

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Facebook rewards Pages that post regularly by ranking them higher in search results and newsfeeds. your partners or other ventures, edit the Page so the template and tabs reflects the content you have and the business you run, and turn notifications on so that you know when your customers are trying to reach you (you keep the ringer on your phone on – think of this the same way). Make sure your Page is verified.

2. Perfect Profile Pics Your profile picture should be a clean, colour, crisp company logo. It must be at least 180 pixels by 180 pixels (or you can use a larger size that is in a multiple of 180).Your cover photo should showcase your expertise or your product. Preferably this photo is dynamic and features people.

You will want to make sure your photo looks sharp on mobile and desktop. Go to facebook.com/PageSizeDimensions for great sizing tips.

3. Post Regularly Facebook rewards Pages that post regularly by ranking them higher in search results and newsfeeds. Facebook identifies these Pages as active and relevant – Facebook wants its users to have the best experience so keep your posts fresh and up to date to be recognized. Content tells your story and helps you meet your goals.

4. Spend Money Set aside a budget for Facebook Ads each month.You can do a lot for $25. Use it to grow your presence – and keep your product top of mind for your target audience. Remember those 1,000 people who are interested in home improvement?

You can target them with an ad each month to remind them about your expertise – regular content and a verified Page helps keep you on the top of their mind and hopefully converts them to clients when they are ready.

I encourage you to start experimenting, posting, and building your Facebook audience. I look forward to seeing your Facebook posts pop up. Share your Facebook success with me at @ CIPRComs by tagging #PRPower and #FernieSuccess.

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Come visit us at 671 Second Ave

Business in the Valley

BUSINESS ADVICE

Simplify and Personalize the Route to Purchase

by PATTY VADNAIS

A

couple years back, I had the opportunity to be one of the coaches for the Elk Valley Dolphins Swim Club.

It was my first go at coaching and Cath Liversidge gave me a crash course. One of the first, and most valuable, things she taught me was you cannot focus on more than one thing at a time. If she told me to think about my arm position, breathing, and kicking all at the same time I was able to improve none. To improve as a coach I took workshops and read books. This theme of focusing on one thing at a time kept coming to the forefront. If we were working on arm position, that was all we worried about and the other pieces we could deal with another time. Perfect that one thing and then it will work with the others. We had to simplify what we worked on and refine each piece on its own to go faster.

As consumers, we like things simple as well.

Researchers Patrick Spenner and Karen Freeman developed a “decision-simplicity index.” This index gauges how easy it is for consumers to gather and understand (or navigate) information about a product or service. They found that the higher the index (the easier the purchase decision) the more likely a consumer is to purchase, to re-purchase, and to recommend the product or service. In a Harvard Business Review article, Spenner and Freeman note three ways you can improve our decisionsimplicity index.

1. Aiding Navigation Customers will seek information about you through your website and your staff.

Are you giving your customers a clear path to what they want? Look for ways to create an efficient path to the information

SIMPLIFY AND PERSONALIZE | RAVEN EYE PHOTO

they want; the more you can personalize the route the better.Your customers are looking to understand how your product and services meet their needs, and they are also looking for reviews about your products and services. Are you making it easy for them to find this information?

I was recently on a national electronics company’s website. I abandoned my search because the pathways were hard to follow and I kept ending up away from the product I was looking for and feeling like I had to start over. Keep the navigation simple.

2. Building Trust Think about the last time you were researching a purchase online. Did you read product reviews? Deloitte reports that 81% of people read reviews and check ratings on their path to purchase. Reviews and information gathered by the consumer are tools you can use to build trust. Make it easy for your customers to access reviews while ensuring transparency in the information you are providing. Gather reviews from people who have used your products and services that speak about their experiences. The decision-making process is simplified when consumers trust the information you are presenting.

3. Making it Easier to Weigh Options

In helping consumers make purchases, sellers will often provide technical details, use industry jargon, and provide side-byside comparisons. However, this does not help the consumer answer their questions.

For example, I really don’t want to learn the difference between an i3, i5, and i7 processor for my computer. I want help choosing a computer for work (or for gaming or for design). Are you making it easy to understand your products’ features and benefits in terms that make sense to your customer? Instead of side-byside comparison, why not educate your consumer with tools that help them identify and weigh the features most relevant to them.You must identify the essential features of your product and explain them to the customer. For example, the quality of diamonds is measured by the “4 Cs” (cut, colour, clarity, and carat).

Knowing what makes a quality diamond, the consumer now has tools to weigh essential features and make an informed choice.

There are a lot of actions to help increase your decision-simplicity index. Just like the athletes, tackle one piece at a time. Work on navigation with simple paths. Build trust around your product and services, and assist the consumer in weighing options. And then build simple paths to your products and services that help the consumer find what they want.

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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.

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MEET SOME MEMBERS Simon Howse, Owner of Parastone Development, has been a part of the Initiative since it began in early 2012 and he has been the Chair of the Steering Committee for the past five years. He represents Fernie, housing and business.

Anita Palmer, Manager of the College of the Rockies Fernie Campus, has participated in the Initiative from the beginning and has been the Vice Chair of the Steering Committee for the past 5 years. She represents RDEK A and education.

Sign up for the newsletter for more information.

www.evcnpvoice.com

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Gordon Galloway, a retiree from Elkford, has also participated in the Initiative from the beginning and has been an active member of the Steering Committee.

Gordon represents Elkford and Motorized Recreation.

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Business in the Valley

Shareholder Remuneration: Wage or Dividend

other hand is reported on a T5 Slip by the last day in February and there is no payroll account to maintain or source deductions to submit.You are, however, required to make personal tax instalments if your prior year income tax owing is $3,000 or greater. This is more likely to be the case with dividend income, as regular remittances are not being made.

by JAIME HANSON, CPA

A

very common question asked by small business shareholders is “Should I compensate myself with wages or dividends?” The answer is more complex than simply the overall tax implications.

Let’s begin by looking at the most basic difference between the two. Wages are an expense to the corporation, thus reducing profit and related corporate income tax expense. Dividends are not an expense to the corporation and are paid from after tax earnings of the corporation. There are a number of factors to consider in the wage versus dividend decision.

Corporate Tax - As mentioned, wages are an expense that reduces corporate profit and thus reduces corporate tax.

Dividends are not an expense, and therefore corporate tax paid will be higher under the dividend option. The current combined provincial and federal corporate tax rate on active business in British Columbia for corporations qualifying for the small business deduction is 12% for income after January 1, 2018.

Personal Tax - Income earned from wages is taxed at a higher personal rate than income earned from ineligible (regular) dividends. In 2018 the tax rate on wage income in the highest personal income bracket (> $205,842) is 49.80% compared to the top bracket rate for regular dividend income of 43.73%.

Canada Pension Plan (CPP) – CPP contributions are payable on wage income.

In 2018 the maximum pensionable earnings for CPP is $55,900 for a combined self-employed maximum annual contribution of $5,187.60 (both employee

MONEY MATTERS

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...there is not a one size fits all solution. In many cases a combination of wages and dividends may be the best strategy. and employer portions). While this does bring about a cash flow consideration, CPP can be a good retirement planning tool especially for those not likely to save and plan for retirement on their own.

RRSPs – Wage income creates RRSP contribution room, while dividend income does not. The annual RRSP contribution room is calculated on 18% of the previous year’s wage earnings. Unused amounts are carried forward to the next year and accumulated. In 2018 the limit is $26,230, which is 18% of $145,722.

CNIL – For taxpayers with a cumulative net investment loss (CNIL) balance, paying dividend reduces the balance so more of the capital gains deduction can be accessed in the event of a sale of qualified shares.

Reporting – A CRA payroll account must be in place for wage income, source deduction remitted regularly and a T4 filed by the last day in February. For a corporation with other employees, adding the shareholder to payroll is not much of a burden; however, for a corporation with a single shareholder and no other employees, the additional calculations, remittances requirements and reporting could be a consideration. Dividend income on the

Work Safe BC Premiums – Premiums must be paid on all shareholder wage income up to the max assessable earnings amount, which is $82,700 in 2018. No exception. Work Safe BC premiums are assessable on dividend earnings only to the extent that dividends are paid for active work in the corporation.

Combined Income Tax - From a straight income tax perspective, let’s look at a scenario comparing the total tax paid under the wage versus dividend option.

Assume a corporation is a CCPC, qualifies for the small business deduction, and has $10,000 of income. The shareholder is trying to decide between paying a wage or paying corporate tax on the $10,000 and then paying a dividend with the remaining balance. Which of the two options results in the most after-tax dollars for the shareholder?

If the shareholder is in the top income bracket they will end up with $5,020 after tax dollars under the wage option and $4,952 under the dividend option.

A difference of only $68. Under the same scenario, only for a shareholder in the lowest tax bracket (>$39,676) the difference between the choices is a mere $6 in favour of the wage option.

These are just a few of the factors to consider, and as you can see there is not a one size fits all solution. In many cases a combination of wages and dividends may be the best strategy.

This article is for general information purposes only.You should discuss your specific situation with a qualified professional.

FERNIEFIX.COM

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Arts and Entertainment

FEATURE ARTIST

WILD WOLVES Wild Wolves Design began in 2013 when I, Erika, was determined to explore a new art medium and try my hand at pyrography (wood burning). After multiple unsuccessful attempts with an old soldering iron, my dad surprised me with a pyrography pen and encouraged me to try again. Better equipped, I was able to achieve the results I was hoping for. Shortly after, the demand for different pieces resulted in the collaboration with my younger sister, Laryssa, and then later, my older brother, Brock. Laryssa’s eye for design and love for jewellery and textiles offered a fresh perspective and expansion of our work. Brock’s attention to detail and passion for woodworking enabled us to make custom and unique handmade items.

Growing up in a creative family, we all have a fond appreciation for art and, more specifically, woodworking. Our dad has always enjoyed woodworking as a hobby.

As West Fernie Wood Works, he builds custom wood pieces, specializing in beautifully handcrafted barnwood picture frames. His father, our “Papa”Verne, has also been influential to us. Whether he is painting local historical buildings around Fernie or crafting detailed wooden birdhouses, his creativity and craftsmanship is inspiring.

Throughout the initial years, I was attending university and our time to create together was limited to my short visits home from the east coast. However, it was during this time that I was exposed to laser

cutting and the opportunities that this technology could offer. Upon completion of my Master of Architecture last spring, I packed up my car with an array of laser cut designs and when I arrived back in Fernie, we went straight to work. The three of us spent the summer collaborating and attending the markets within the valley.

Feedback via the markets and through social media was encouraging and resulted in requests for a variety of custom pieces.

As the summer ended, the purchase of a laser cutter was pivotal to the development of our work. It allowed us to continue to meet these demands, push the capabilities of wood as a material, and grow as artists.

To date we have made custom laser engraved and hand burned picture frames, shelves, decorative boxes, urns, coasters, necklaces, earrings, bracelets, key chains, cake toppers, wine racks, photo ornaments, crib boards, artwork, signs, photo albums and souvenirs.

As fifth-generation Fernie-ites, we grew up with a love for nature, and inspiration from this town is abundant. The natural elements that surround us, the simple lifestyle that mountain living has to offer and the mountains’ underlying, basic geometric shapes are all aspects that influence our designs. It is this simplicity that drives

our creations. As a result, we strive to create minimalist and unique pieces that combine art and function. Since wood is naturally a beautiful material, we aim to work with the material rather than against it to maintain its organic appeal.

In addition to being inspired by our surroundings, we are also inspired by the people and talent that make up Fernie.

While Wild Wolves is very much a collaborative effort between the three of us, it extends beyond us and is successful because of the support from family, friends and the greater community.

In the future, we are hoping to incorporate a variety of natural materials into our palette to push and further explore the relationship between art, nature and technology. Additionally, we are looking forward to working with other talents and businesses in the community to collaborate and expand on unconventional uses of wood.

For more information on Brock, Erika and Larissa Hornquist of Wild Wolves Design, visit them on Facebook @wildsolvesdesign or call 902-226-4834

FERNIEFIX.COM

17

February Events & Activities

• Feb. 3 & 4 - Jeep Junior Freeski presented

by Smith & Rossignol • Feb. 10 - Winter Olympics Kick Off Event • Feb. 16-18 - Griz Kidz Family Day Weekend Activities

Weekly Winter Activities

Tuesdays - Snowshoe & Dine Wednesdays & Saturdays - Yoga @ Lizard Creek Lodge Thursdays - Winter Fat Bike & Dine Fridays - Evening Uptracking Tour Saturdays - Kids Pool Party, BBQ & Movie Night Sundays - Nordic Sunday For all activities please check out SKIFERNIE.COM

ph: Nick Nault

NO SCHOOL RIDE DAYS

• February 9, 12 & 23 • March 9 & April 2 • Half Day and Full Day programs available

WEEKLY SPECIALS

Tuesdays - $20 Pasta & Wine Dinner Wednesdays - $15 Ice Bar Sundays - Half Price House Cocktails 3-6pm

Arts and Entertainment

AT PEACE AND YET ON FIRE

The Haiku

by SADIE ROSGEN FEATURING ANNA SCHMIDT: THE HAIKU

I am completely obsessed with elements of Japanese arts and culture.

Naturally, that is what drew me to Haiku poetry for this issue.

Hai, what? Haiku poetry consists of three lines in total, the first and last lines consist of five syllables or moras if you are writing in Japanese, with the middle line consists of seven syllables. Doesn’t get much simpler than that!

As nine-year old Anna and I created our Haikus, we discovered how fun and easy this form can be, especially for young writers.

Anna was an absolute joy to collaborate with and our Haikus are a reflection of the fun and heartfelt experience we shared.

Haikus by Anna Schmidt

Haikus by Sadie Rosgen

SOCKS

A DRESS THAT IS ONE COLOR

Soft and warm, All different shapes and colours, They are fun to wear.

Black, Blue, Red or Green, Shining like you’ve never seen, I eclipse the sun.

LOVE

LOVE

Roses and kisses, Sometimes love is hard to find, But worth every step.

You can repeat it, The force field protects you now Can you feel it here?

SNOW

ANGER

Plain white and sparkles, Falling in the night time sky, Beautiful and shines.

Rage in all colours, Make sure it never stays put, I see you struggle.

FERNIEFIX.COM

19

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Arts and Entertainment

Top Movies of 2017

by ANDREW VALLANCE

Murder on The Orient Express his film is an excellent adaptation of Agatha Christie’s most famous and best loved mystery novel, with legendary stage actor Kenneth Branagh expertly playing the role of the exceptional, neurotic, and incredibly brilliant Belgian private detective Hercule Poirot. Branagh is backed up by an excellent, star-studded supporting cast, which includes Johnny Depp, Daisy Ridley, Michelle Pfeiffer, Penelope Cruz, Derrick Jacobi, Judy Dench, Willem Dafoe and Josh Gadd. This wonderful film is definitely worth a look.

T

Three Billboards Outside Ebbing, Missouri Written and directed by Martin McDonough, a filmmaker probably best known for the unbelievably dark cult hits In Bruges and Seven Psychopaths, Three Billboards Outside Ebbing, Missouri tells the story of Mildred Hayes, a working class mother of two who is searching for the man responsible for raping and murdering

her daughter. Frances McDormand plays Hayes, a hard-bitten graduate of the school of hard knocks. She is not above using violence to get revenge. Woody Harrelson and Sam Rockwell do marvellous jobs in supporting roles as two ebbing police officers. John Hawkes, most famous for his role in The Sessions and Winter’s Bone, plays Hayes’ ex-husband. Peter Dinklage is in a secondary role, as James, a used-car dealer who has a crush on Mildred. This film has a great script and although dark, is a comedy and should not be missed.

It Based on Stephen King’s magnum opus from 1986, this latest adaptation of It deals with six children and their attempt to battle an evil, childeating clown who lives in the sewers of their presumed idyllic New England town. Bill Skarsgård, son of Stellan and brother to Alexander, plays an extremely frightening Pennywise, the film’s demonic villain, but the highlight of the film is no doubt the six child actors that were assembled to play our heroes.

This is a terrific movie. Two thumbs up.

Thor: Ragnorok Thor: Ragnorok is the latest edition to Marvel’s Cinematic Universe. It centres on the adventures of Thor and Loki as they seek a way to drive Hella, the evil Goddess of death, out of

THE RENTAL FIX

Asgard, and stop her from laying waste to the universe. Directed by Taika Waititi, the man behind such excellent films as Hunt for the Wilder People and What We Do in the Shadows, this movie is a hilarious romp through space and time, with both Chris Hemsworth and Tom Hiddleston getting a chance to show off their considerable comedic talents.

Also featured in this film are Mark Ruffalo as Bruce Banner/Hulk, Tessa Thompson as Valkyrie, an Asgardian warrior living in self-imposed exile, and Jeff Goldblum as The Grandmaster, a whimsical alien overlord.

Certainly worth checking out. Two thumbs up.

Ladybird Ladybird is the tale of Christine “Ladybird” MacPherson, a young girl coming of age in Sacramento, California, in the early 2000s.

The film is Gretta Gerwig’s directorial debut. She is best known for off-beat films like Mistress America and Francis Ha. Gerwig does an excellent job bringing this journey of self-discovery to the big screen, with the help of Saoirse Ronan, the wonderful actress who portrays Ladybird, this first-time director manages to create a film that is really quite excellent.

Two Thumbs up!

FERNIEFIX.COM

21

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Arts and Entertainment

Keep Calm and Listen to Music

Northern. If you haven’t been initiated, this band hasn’t put out anything solid, but it’ll definitely keep you going back for more.

But don’t worry, the Runs won’t haunt you next day. The band delivers punk (plunk?) rock that makes for a raucous dance party and mosh pit.

by CAROLYN NIKODYM

A

couple of years ago, I gave up New Year’s resolutions – as a resolution, of course. It wasn’t that I didn’t see the benefit of making positive life changes, but I did see how the whole exercise sets me up for failure. On January 1, I am going to exercise more, and eat less, and watch less TV, and do more writing, and, and, and… Pretty soon, my resolve fades at trying to tackle all of it at once, and I slip back into less-than-stellar habits. So I decided to see resolutions as an evolution of habits to build on. So it’s February, and I am absolutely crushing my goals so far, which means that I’d like to attack another: simplify.

DAWSON RUTLEDGE | SUBMITTED IMAGE

Also that night, Dawson Rutledge and band will be playing the Fernie Hotel.

The singer-songwriter performed at Wapiti last summer and gave an engaging performance on Saturday afternoon. The Cranbrook native released his debut album, Monsters, last fall, and it’s clear that this young man is going places. His songs are infused with catchy guitar and heartfelt lyrics. At just 20 years old, he’s already amassed some accolades, including making it to the 2016 CBC Searchlight Top 10 Interior & Northern BC acts.

Selci hits Infinitea on February 4 on her tour of Western Canada. Selci sings her powerful voice over her own beats. Think Grimes and Erykah Badu for a sound comparison. She is also a classically trained musician and all-around artist, so I think this show is going to be something special and out of the Fernie ordinary.

I find that when I need to feel good, to rejuvenate or to concentrate, music really, really helps. Need to finally tackle that overstuffed closet? Throw some rockin’ tunes on. Want to cook more real meals at home? Do it with a soothing soundtrack.

Want to watch less TV? Pretty hard to binge-watch with the music on. Want to spend more time with friends? Go to a show.

Thankfully, there are always plenty of ways to enjoy music in Fernie – for pretty much every taste.

I’ve never chatted about Fernie Friends of Opera here (apologies!), but the group has monthly screenings at The Arts Station from September to May on the first Friday of the month. The screening on February 2 is Claude Debussy’s Pelléas et Mélisande. It features a love triangle, where mystery woman Mélisande marries Prince Golaud but ends up falling in love with his younger half-brother Pelléas. The opera is full of unrequited love, deception and death. It is also the only one Debussy ever completed (in 1902), but is considered a landmark composition of the 20th century.

MUSICAL NOTES

WiL | JODIE GALLANT PHOTO

I find that when I need to feel good, to rejuvenate or to concentrate, music really, really helps.

Check out The Arts Station website for the remaining screenings of the season.

A few days later, WiL returns to The Arts Station to deliver, no doubt, a powerful show. The roots band – WiL is joined with Keith Gallant and Lena Birtwistle – has stage presence out the wazoo. Expect toe tapping, clapping and – I challenge you, again – dancing!

If getting out of the house to see a show is daunting – I know! Life is a constant parade of things to do! – then the one album that should turn into Fernie’s soundtrack for 2018 is the anticipated release of Shred Kelly’s Archipelago in midFebruary. The title single is already out and is a beautiful interpretation of the things that connect us as humans. (FYI, the band will be touring the new record across the country and will hit Fernie in March.)

On February 3, check out Fernie’s own number two band, the Runs at the FERNIEFIX.COM

23

Community and Events

FEATURE RESIDENT

Marsha Churchill

by KRISTA TURCASSO

I

n the early 2000’s I was regularly commuting to Fernie on weekends.

With each year, I noticed subtle changes to the downtown. New shops, cafés or restaurants opening their doors, some making it through the off seasons, others not. One not so subtle addition that seemed to be standing strong was Hempire.

Its bright colours and distinctive name were eye-catching, and immediately piqued my curiosity.

I first met Marsha Churchill, the woman behind Hempire on our way to a stagette in Canmore, catching a ride in her bright and sometimes controversial Hempire car.

Within minutes of our trip, I was in awe of her honesty, strength and determination.

Originally from small town Ontario, Marsha opened the first Hempire in Canmore, AB in 1998. She noticed the town was extremely busy in summer, but not winter so did some research on up and coming mountain towns and decided to open a second store in Fernie. “Canmore was getting too big for me,” she admits. In 2001 she came to open the store, and never left. “You could roll a bowling ball down Main street in summer and not hit a soul, and I had such a close group of friends. I loved it here.”

Around this time, Marsha was also coming to terms with the fact that she has MS – an autoimmune disease of the central nervous system. “This year is the 20th anniversary of my first symptom,” she tells me. Her legs went numb, and having done her own research she self diagnosed and her doctors never questioned her. It was the Neurologists who officially diagnosed her 15 years ago. “I cried for two weeks,” she says. “A good friend called me and told me a story about a 90 year old woman with MS.” She was in the hospital dying, but not from MS. He spoke with her to find out how, and she said that in her 20’s she

V. CROOME PHOTO

couldn’t get out of the hospital bed. One night she was so fed up, she said ‘#$%& this place, tomorrow morning I’m getting out of this bed and never coming back.’

And she did. “You tell your friend it’s all up here,” she said, pointing to her head.

“And that’s when I decided to stop feeling sorry for myself. The next day, I found a location in Banff and went on to open my third Hempire.”

With multiple stores, Marsha outlined processes and created manuals to ensure the businesses could “run themselves.” It was then the idea of Franchising came to her. “I had the procedures in place, so thought why not?” With two kids in diapers, her partner Kurtis also starting his own business, and continually working on being as healthy as possible, it was an intense but productive time.

Stress was of course a big concern, but to Marsha sitting around “thinking” about MS and suppressing her natural entrepreneurial spirit was more stressful than going for it.

It didn’t take long for Marsha to feel the weight of all she had created. The years of managing businesses, a household, children, and her health were adding up and she knew it was time to streamline. In 2007

she sold her two stores in Alberta, followed by the store in Fernie. She had a brief stint with a business in Fernie, but it wasn’t in line with her passions and was causing her stress. “Open the restaurant,” Kurtis said to her. Marsha had been talking for years about this project, something they thought Fernie needed. She had a book she’d been writing in for years, basically outlining the entire business – Lunchbox was born.

1. When did you first arrive in Fernie and what brought you here?

Lunchbox was a success from the beginning, both for their family and the town. Marsha enjoyed the work, and was also able to attend all of her kids’ activities.

Life was starting to feel easier, the weights lifting off one by one. A few years ago, they decided to list Lunchbox for sale on Kijiji… “Three days later, a guy from Calgary came to town and bought it.”

That the people were nice.

A new passion of Marsha’s is volunteering with Junior Achievers. “I go into the schools and teach Fundamental Entrepreneurship and Financial Literacy to Grades 5-7,” she says adding that her goal is to also teach Grades 10-12. “I was that person who didn’t know any of it after graduating, and it’s a time kids are under so much pressure to make decisions.”

As we finish off our long coffee date, we hone in on all of the lessons Marsha has learned on her path to simplicity… focus on what you’re passionate about, learn how to delegate, hire experts to allow you to focus on what you’re good at, stop working with people who stress you out, and sometimes you’re more successful when you do less. All great points, in life and in business. Thank you, Marsha!

2. Where did you first live in town?

Ridgemont condos.

3. What was your first impression?

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

I would love to see Heaven’s Gate closer to being completed. It’s Heiko’s, and I would love to see it fly.

4. What keeps you here?

8. How do you start your day or what is one of your daily rituals?

The people. The sense of community.

I start my day with lemon water.

5. Do you have a favourite Fernie memory?

9. Tell us something people might be surprised to learn about you.

I love the Wam Bam Dirt Jump Jam. I offered to host it with Troy Nixon last year, but everyone was bagged. I am amazed by all of the events this town comes up with.

I’m a bit of an introvert, I like quiet.

6. What is your favourite time of the year in Fernie and why?

10. Quote to live by: People do not decide their futures; they decide their habits and their habits decide their futures. F. Matthias Alexander

COAL TOWN 591 b 2nd Ave

Artwork: Merlijne Marell

Kurtis and Marsha decided she would help run his business,Valley View Contracting, and they also started a mini-storage business. “We had been so disconnected, focused on our own businesses. Now we’re focused on the same projects, and our relationship became stronger. I wish I would have done it sooner,” she tells me.

“But when the kids are little, it’s tough to simplify – you’re just trying to survive.”

2001, and I moved here to open Hempire.

Didn’t plan on living here!

Spring, because I love sunshine and the beginning of the warmer weather. Having a BBQ with your friends and hanging out outside.

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25

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April 12 – 15

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Contact the Fernie campus @ 250-423-4691 or Visit: cotr.bc.ca/ConEd

Community and Events

Managing Burnout While Parenting Your Cat

conversations with our friends about the irrational things our kids do. Irritation, judgement, and lack of patience are signs of burn out.

Teens can appear deceivingly independent.

They may exclaim, “I don’t need you anymore!” Teenagers pull back from their families, spend more time outside the home, and are probably making their own money. All of this separation and autonomy conveniently happens when we desperately need a break from supervising their lives, so it’s tempting to take our foot off the parenting pedal and just cruise.Your role is changing, but it’s not quitting time yet.

by KERRI WALL

O

nce upon a time you had a small child in your home. This child loved to be with you, missed you when you were gone, came running into your arms when you returned, and could play with you all day. Though lacking a wagging tail, your small child was basically a dog.

Then without your permission or awareness, this dog suddenly gets replaced by a cat.Your bigger teenaged child won’t come when you call, frequently stays out of sight, rarely likes to be touched, and only seems to value you for offerings of food.

How did this happen? You really liked your dog!

Dog-to-cat transformation catches most parents off guard. We know our children intimately and have cared for them year after year. We recognize their laughter in a crowded gymnasium and their footsteps in the hall.Yet forces beyond our control are changing a once-familiar family member into a whole other species.

While this story of human development may already be dramatic, it gets more intense. A perfect storm could be in the works within the very walls of your home.

Not only do you need to let go of the idea of parenting your dog-child and figure out how to manage a cat-teen – a big project on its own – you will also have to work around the inevitable burn-out that strikes parents around this time.

If you have a teenager, you have been a mom or dad for over a decade. That’s a long time to perform a high-stakes, 24/7 job. Is it possible to do this kind of work for this length of time without hitting burn-out? I don’t think so.

PLANNING AHEAD

V. CROOME PHOTO

It’s true that kids this age don’t need us like they used to, but they still need us. It may take some reflecting and investigating to sort out exactly what this means and how we can adapt.

It’s common to blame teenagers for the ways we feel confused and aggravated with them. It seems clear that THEY are different now. The cat-like behaviours of your teenager are easy to see when viewing them from the outside and comparing your daughter or son to who they used to be.

The changes that have happened to you, however, are not so apparent.

Exhaustion is sneaky. We might not feel like sleeping for a week but we may instead experience new levels of anger or impatience with our teens. Rather than feeling overwhelmed and under-motivated, it’s possible we might launch into detailed

Last month, I advised parents of teenagers to plan ahead for rewarding relationships with their kids. This month I want you to prioritize taking care of yourself and keeping your eyes open with your teens.

This dual focus will streamline and simplify your parenting. It’s true that kids this age don’t need us like they used to, but they still need us. It may take some reflecting and investigating to sort out exactly what this means and how we can adapt.

Teenagers simply need us to be interested in them. They need our curiosity more than a cross-examination. It helps teens when they can genuinely feel our caring.

Of course, they will be prickly – just like grumpy cats – but that doesn’t mean we should withhold our efforts in their direction. We need to be persistent and creative.

It’s useful for teens to see their parents taking care of themselves while staying in tune with their children. They may seem like they aren’t paying attention to us or that everything we do is dumb and embarrassing, but parents are still their number-one influence. Feelings of burn out might compel us to hide under the couch for a few years, but this is a prime time for guiding our children to adulthood.

Next month I’ll discuss how to create and keep closeness while honouring independence.

FERNIEFIX.COM

27

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SEÁN MC TERNAN PHOTO

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Community and Events

Letting Go

by SHELBY CAIN

W

hy is it so difficult to let things go? I’m wondering, as I stand before my cluttered junk drawer. Crammed with the kids’ colouring and a Dyson warranty card and hair elastics. Old bills, report cards, Band-Aids and a tube of Speed Sew. It’s bad, people. Every year I face the same dilemma. I let things I don’t need pile up. I can’t seem to absorb the fact that something I deemed valuable at one time may not hold that same value forever. The new year comes and I think, time to simplify.

I don’t need all this stuff! Standing before the clutter, I’m so overwhelmed that other, less daunting chores jump to high priority status. When’s the last time I dusted the washer and dryer? Cleaned the light switches? I’m living like a heathen…this drawer will have to wait. And off I scamper. To procrastinate somewhere else. It doesn’t feel good.

Whenever I’m frustrated and overwhelmed, I ask the Google. Guess what I learned? Clutter is killing us. Seriously.

Psychology Today cites numerous studies that show living in cluttered environments causes stress, weight gain, depression, fatigue, and sleep loss. Are you nodding as you read this? Me too! There’s a feeling of doom that creeps into me when my pantry is stuffed with almost-empty chip bags.

When I’m stepping over the recycling to reach my slow cooker and rifling through my dreaded junk drawer for the one good homework pencil. With the eraser. I hate when things get like this – so why do I let it happen?

Here’s something else from my buddy Google. There’s “organization porn.”

Not making it up. One site was called ThingsOrganizedNeatly.com … on seriously? Websites with endless images of gleaming kitchens void of a single appliance, closets with only six shirts, and desks with one perfect pencil in a tiny red cup (my personal favourite). It

FAMILY STOKE

seems we’re craving an uncluttered existence.

If we can’t summon the discipline to produce our own, we’ll covet our neighbour’s.

As I stand before my disgraceful drawer and berate myself for laziness and lack of domestic goddess-like behaviour, a terrifying thought bursts through all the others. If clutter in our homes is having such a huge impact on our health, can you imagine the damage clutter in our brains is inflicting?

There’s no escape from it. We can’t close the door and leave it behind.

We have to muck around in it all day. Rifle through the heaps of insecurity and worry, stack and then re-stack the grudges and failures piles, just to find a grocery list or the name of our friend’s new baby. Birthdays? Coffee dates? Easily misplaced beneath the to-do lists for today and tomorrow and the one you didn’t complete yesterday. Our minds, like our junk drawers, are completely overstuffed. Let’s clean house.

Tips for decluttering are plentiful. I like the “Four Piles” method. Chuck. Keep.

Donate. Move. I open the drawer. Start sorting. Don’t think too hard about my daughter’s smile when she gave me the letter that says, “Mom, you roc.” Nope.

That’s staying. But I’ll move it. I’ll get a box and I’ll keep all the kids letters in it. A nice fabric box, like on Pinterest. So now I have to go buy a box. I don’t think getting more stuff is the point. This isn’t going well.

One hour later and my drawer is done.

High priority items like scissors, keys, and

SHELBY CAIN PHOTO

the good pencil – right up front. I guess I’ll declutter my brain next. Oh boy. Talk about a muck-out. Start chucking. Selfloathing and impossible standards. Chuck.

Jealousy and old grudges. Chuck. Outdated goals, regrets, and past mistakes. Wow – I feel lighter already! Love and praise?

Donate. Often and abundantly. I move the to-do lists and future goals to paper.

Magically, possibilities become intentions.

I see them and have clarity. Now I’ll put all my keepers right up front. Kindness.

Empathy. Patience. Acceptance. Humour.

My breath comes in long, slow draws. I’m smiling. This is good. I’m organized and prioritized and I have space. For listening.

Anticipating. Noticing – your new haircut or that your voice sounded off when we spoke. I’m present. And I think letting go of things, while difficult at times, might be pretty fantastic.

FERNIEFIX.COM

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18 4

February 2018 MONTHLY EVENTS THURSDAY 1.2.2018 Beautea Night with Spa 901 @ Infinitea, 6-9pm with $10 manicures and massages Artist Spotlight: Sarah Pike @ The Fernie Museum, for the month of February FRIDAY 2.2.2018 Ladies Jam Night @ Infinitea, from 8pm Fernie Ghostriders Hockey Game @ Sparwood Arena, 7:30pm Kid Eh and Friends @ The Royal Cold Cuts Live @ The Pub Fernie Friends of Opera: Pelleas et Melisande by Claude Debussy @ The Arts Station, 7pm SATURDAY 3.2.2018 Junior Freeski Regional @ Fernie Alpine Resort, 9am-4pm Dawson Rutledge and Band @ The Fernie Hotel, 8pm Mooves Latin House with Jenn Frost and Dance Instructor @ The Royal The Runs @ The Northern SUNDAY 4.2.2018 Junior Freeski Regional @ Fernie Alpine Resort, 9am-4pm Superbowl Sunday @ The Pub Indie Films Fernie: Porcupine Lake @ The Vogue Theatre, 5pm Selci with Guests @ Infinitea, 7pm MONDAY 5.2.2018 Movie Night: The Big Lebowski @ Infinitea, 7pm Zumba Class @ Fernie Drop In Centre, 7pm Cribbage Club @ Trinity Lodge, open to all ages.

WEDNESDAY 7.2.2018 Walkie Talkie Book Club: Bel Canto by Ann Patchett @ Fernie Heritage Library, 10pm Seniors Storytime @ Tom Uphill Manor, 1:30pm Wine and Wheel @ The Arts Station, 7pm WiL Live @ The Arts Station, 8pm THURSDAY 8.2.2017 I Love LOCAL: Valentine DIY @ Fernie Heritage Library, 6:30pm Astrology Readings and Dreadlock Maintenance @ Infinitea, 6-9pm FRIDAY 9.2.2018 The Vagina Monologues @ The Arts Station, 7pm Fernie Ghostriders Hockey Game @ Sparwood Arena, 7:30pm Jeff Steiert (AKA J-Skillz) Live @ The Pub Koba (Koba Gold Records) @ The Royal SATURDAY 10.2.2018 The Vagina Monologues @ The Arts Station, 1pm and 7pm.

Conscious Relationship: Tools for Growing Together and Separately @ Soar Studios, 7:30pm Freddy J (Calgary) @ The Royal Strawberry Extravaganza @ Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory SUNDAY 11.2.2018 Fernie Ghostriders Hockey Game @ Sparwood Arena, 7:30pm Strawberry Extravaganza @ Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory MONDAY 12.2.2018 Movie Night: Pulp Fiction @ Infinitea, 7pm

Strawberry Extravaganza @ Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory TUESDAY 13.2.2018 Strawberry Extravaganza @ Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory WEDNESDAY 14.2.2018 Seniors Storytime @ Rocky Mountain Village, 1pm Couples Tarot Readings with Cocktail and Dessert Special @ Infinitea, from 7pm Valentine’s Three-Course Dinner Special @ Max Restaurant Strawberry Extravaganza @ Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory THURSDAY 15.2.2018 Pizza League @ Fernie Heritage Library, monthly drop-in for teens (ages 13+) for free pizza and games.

RSVP: Date Night With a Book @ Fernie Heritage Library, 6:30pm.

FRIDAY 16.2.2018 Fun Friday: The Adventures of Captain Underpants @ Fernie Heritage Library, 3:30-5:30pm for ages 7+ Fernie Snowmobile Association Festival: Thunderstruck Film Night and Fundraiser Dinner @ The Griz Bar, $50 Get Down Party @ The Royal Jeff Steiert (AKA J-Skillz) Live @ The Pub Café Con Leche Live @ Infinitea, from 8pm Fernie Ghostriders Hockey Game @ Sparwood Arena, 7:30pm Griz Kidz Family Day Weekend Activities @ Fernie Alpine Resort SATURDAY 17.2.2018 Weekend Storytime @ Fernie Heritage Library, 1-1:30pm Super Saturday: The Adventures of Captain Underpants @ Fernie Heritage Library, 3:30-5:30pm for ages 7+ Fernie Snowmobile Association Festival: Sled Drags and Corbin Sled Ride @ Fernie. Sled Ride at staging area, 10am.

Ben Fox (Nelson) @ The Royal SUNDAY 18.2.2018 7th Annual Winterfest @ Elk Valley Nordic Centre, with a fun race day and social. All welcome.

Fernie Ghostriders Hockey Game @ Sparwood Arena, 7:30pm

CHECK OUT THE FERNIE FIX EVENTS CALENDAR ONLINE AT FERNIEFIX.COM

Griz Kidz Family Day Weekend Activities @ Fernie Alpine Resort SUNDAY 18.2.2018 Griz Kidz Family Day Weekend Activities @ Fernie Alpine Resort MONDAY 19.2.2018 Movie Night: Happy Feet @ Infinitea, 5pm Wildsight Wildideas Focus Group @ Infinitea, 7pm with meal specials TUESDAY 20.2.2018 Cooking Class Hosted by Local Chef @ Infinitea, 6-9pm for $35 THURSDAY 22.2.2018 Ukulele 101 @ Fernie Heritage Library, 6:30-7:30pm Astrology Readings and Dreadlock Maintenance @ Infinitea, 6-9pm Exhibit Opening: Jesse Bell @ The Arts Station, 7pm FRIDAY 23.2.2018 Tea and Talk Book Club @ Fernie Heritage Library, 1:30pm Linden Anthony Live @ The Pub Fernie Mountain Film Festival @ Fernie Community Centre Seed: The Movie Screening @ The Arts Station, 7pm Hark Raving Sirens Live @ Infinitea, from 8pm Duplex and PK Sound @ The Royal SATURDAY 24.2.2018 Seed Saturday @ Fernie Family Centre, 10am-2pm. Swap and purchase seeds, with speakers and activities.

Fernie Mountain Film Festival @ Fernie Community Centre 403 DnB DJs (Calgary) @ The ROyal MONDAY 26.2.2018 Days for Girls Monthly Sew-a-thon @ Christ Church Anglican, 561 4th Ave from 1-5pm Movie Night: Team America @ Infinitea, 7pm German Sparkle Party @ The Royal TUESDAY 27.2.2018 Birr Agency Marketing Workshop @ Fernie Chamber of Commerce, 10-11:30am WEDNESDAY 28.2.2018 Seniors Storytime @ Trinity Lodge 1:30pm

GET OUT YOUR BEST #madforplaid #grizdays

March 2-4, 2018

Go to Ferniegrizdays.com for schedule of events

February 2018 WEEKLY EVENTS

CONTACT INFO@CLARISMEDIA.COM TO SHARE YOUR EVENTS, BOTH ONLINE AND IN PRINT. IT’S FREE!

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 Monday Mayhem with Goffles @ The Royal Store and Tasting Room Open @ Fernie Brewing Company Snowshoe and Dine @ Fernie Alpine Resort Pasta Night @ Loaf Happy Hour @ Loaf, 3-5pm Pizza and Beer Specials

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 Happy Hour @ Loaf, 3-5pm Pizza and Beer Specials Pasta and Wine Night @ Cirque Restaurant

OUTDOOR & FAMILY MONDAYS 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 Ladies Only @ Fernie Old School Boxing Parent Tot Funtimes @ Fernie Family Centre 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 Cribbage Club @ Trinity Lodge, Grades 1-6 Open Skate @ Outdoor Rink, 6-7pm. No Sticks 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 Free Guided Meditation @ Soar Studios Public Swimming @ The Aquatic Centre Book Trailer Films @ Fernie Heritage Library

WEDNESDAYS

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 Half Price Ice Bar @ Lizard Creek Lodge Ice Bar Tarot Readings @ Infinitea Happy Hour @ Loaf, 3-5pm Pizza and Beer Specials

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 Pizza Night @ Loaf Happy Hour @ Loaf, 3-5pm Pizza and Beer Specials Winter Bike and Dine @ Fernie Alpine Resort

Seniors Programming

Kids Programming

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 Wine and Wheel @ The Arts Station Latin Vibes: Rhumba @ The Arts Station Lego Club @ Fernie Heritage Library, ages 7+ Apres Ski Yoga @ Lizard Creek Lodge THURSDAYS Morning Yoga, Drop in, and Canasta/Cards @ Senior’s Centre Pickleball @ Fernie Community Centre RC Club @ Fernie Community Centre Community Basketball @ Fernie Secondary School 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,

FRIDAYS

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 Live Music @ Loaf, 6-9pm Happy Hour @ Loaf, 3-5pm Pizza and Beer Specials

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 Happy Hour @ Loaf, 3-5pm Pizza and Beer Specials

SUNDAYS

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 Happy Hour @ Loaf, 3-5pm Pizza and Beer Specials Half Price Cocktails @ Cirque Restaurant Swim

Skate

Library Program

Other

StrongStart @ Isabella Dicken Elementary School Free Guided Meditation @ Soar Studios Public Swimming @ The Aquatic Centre Knits and Knots @ Fernie Heritage Library, ages 8+ Open Skate @ Outdoor Rink, 6-7pm. No Sticks 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 Evening Uptracking Tour @ Fernie Alpine Resort Pre Ski Saturdays Stretch and Warm Up @ Lizard Creek Lodge Open Skate @ Outdoor Rink, 6-7pm. No Sticks SATURDAYS Karma Meditation Class @ Essential Yoga Studio Open Climbing @ Evolution Prenatal Yoga @ Essential Yoga Public Swimming @ The Aquatic Centre Open Skate @ Outdoor Rink, 12-2pm. No Sticks SUNDAYS AA Meetings @ The Anglican Church Basement Public Swimming @ The Aquatic Centre Guided Meditation @ Soar Studios Open Skate @ Outdoor Rink, 12-2pm. No Sticks

FERNIEFIX.COM

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Community and Events

INSIDE AND OUT

Not Keeping Up

1

by REBECCA HALL

I

n the hustle and bustle of our 21stcentury, multitasking, 24-hour news cycle, multi-home/vehicle/job, blended family lifestyles, the constant prompting to simplify and slow down can be as stressful as the lives we lead. And then you ask Fernie-ites how they simplify and they look at you quizzically; how do you simplify a life that is already removed from having/being/wanting “too much?”

Sure, a Fernie life is a non-stop routine of kids-work-activities-shopping-planning and so much more, but isn’t that one of our blessings? That for the most part, we’re not trying to keep up with the Jones’ as much as keeping up with Jonesey’s sled. That we are less interested in glass ceilings and climbing corporate ladders than we are with glass ice and scrambling up mountains. That we don’t mind if the bacon has a little less fat as long as we get it home somehow. Smug as it may sound, most Fernie-ites seem pretty happy with their lot; even when their lot is a lot less.

After the ho-ho-holiday season of nonstop parties, presents and piling on the pounds, I wanted to see how some of those who are busiest at the holidays – retail and front-line staff – like to simplify and unwind when the season winds down. The overwhelming response was that, while most already live deliberately simple lives, there are a few go-to refuges for recharging when it’s time to clear the head.Yoga featured highly. I’ve recently rediscovered its calming benefits, and while my practice is still woeful, it gives me a real sense of peace and clarity. With time, hopefully the peace and clarity will replace the clutter and clamour that is my unfocused mind.

Getting out into nature was also a popular answer. Snowshoe. Nordic Ski. Walk the dog. A young visitor from Latvia summed it up perfectly – Unplug. Back in Fernie for three weeks after a season in 2015, he

is happily skiing, reading and avoiding his laptop as much as possible. Bliss!

In the powderful first days of 2018, I avoided anything hectic, focusing instead on trying to develop some routines in my life. It’s harder than it looks, but I will keep at it in the pursuit of simplicity. On January 10th, I did drop by the Fernie Library’s Booked! event to hear the lovely Esi Edugyan speak and was reminded that some events can encourage a simpler life.

In February, I hope you will take advantage of BC Family Day to find time to focus on whatever simple pleasures you enjoy. I’m looking forward to the wonderful escapism of the Fernie Mountain Film Festival on February 23-24 – there’s nothing quite so beautifully simple as the idea of devoting yourself to a single outdoor pursuit, as many of the features often portray. The community atmosphere is like a warm hug on a cold day. See you there?

4

2. Katie - pictured at work at

Elevation Showcase – takes time to focus on mental and physical health teaching and practicing yoga at Evolution Fitness and Essential Yoga.

2

3. Ula - pictured at work at

3

Grow Children’s Boutique — kept things simple over the holidays with her young family, and then enjoyed decluttering and restoring routines.

5

1. The Elk Valley Nordic Centre One of Fernie’s favourite places to get away from it all. Cathy and Gord from Calgary visit regularly.

Trail Ambassadors Jill and Eileen, pictured with Fernie Trails Alliance Manager Julie, welcome visitors to the cosy trail hut on weekends.

4. Patrice and Glen - enjoy quiet time on the Nordic and snowshoe trails when they are not volunteering as mountain hosts at Fernie Alpine Resort.

5. Martin from Latvia -

was all smiles after a day on the slopes at Fernie Alpine Resort.

There’s nothing quite like the Fernie Factor to help melt away all the stress of everyday life.

FERNIEFIX.COM

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Outdoor Life

TWO TRAILS DIVERGED IN A WOOD

Whose Woods These Are I Think I Know

by JEFF COLDEN

Whose woods these are I think I know.

His house is in the village though; He will not see me stopping here To watch his woods fill up with snow.

Robert Frost

I

t is natural to reflect on the classic Frost poem this time of year. The holidays have passed and we have had the chance to recover. Between the holiday hangover, the lack of sunlight, or – hopefully not this year – a January thaw-induced rain, keeping you off the hill, we often feel a little lost this time of year. So what to do about this?

While introverts know they need time alone, they often do not get enough.

However, extroverts, such as myself, often underestimate the value of quiet reflection.

This time of year, some quiet reflections can be just what the doctor – or local magazine outdoors lifestyle columnist – ordered. So what are the options to incorporate introspection? Go for a long walk, get a massage, maybe take a bath – but since this is an outdoors column, we should probably have an outdoors solution.

My suggestion is to go on a short walk, find a place with a nice view where no one will come by, and sit.

Just sit.

For a long time.

30 minutes, an hour, two hours. However long you need. Don’t squeeze it in, amidst errands where you have a tight window and you have somewhere you need to be. Make time. Take time. Let your mind wander. Meditate if that is your thing, or pray if that is. For me, neither is, so I just sit and reflect.

JEFF COLDEN PHOTO

Think about whatever you want. Take a moment to pause and contemplate the now. The hustle and bustle of day-today life often leaves us missing the larger pattern of our lives, unable to see the forest for the trees, if you will. Ponder what stresses you out, what makes you happy, your job, your kids, your relationship or pull a Seinfeld and think about nothing.

Contemplate what you value in your life and what you want to change.

Take in the stunning scenery of the Elk Valley, breathe our fresh air in deeply, and give your mind space in the freedom of the outdoors.

Despite all appearances, this is not the most risk-free activity. Since it is winter,

and we are discussing wandering alone in the woods, where people will not stumble across you, you should take some precautions. Tell someone where you are going, stay out of avalanche terrain, go a short distance, take lots of warm clothes, and ensure that you can communicate, whether that is by staying in cell range, or taking a SPOT or inReach device.

You could wander down to the river and watch the ripples. Snowshoe in the park, then step off the trail when the mood suits you. Either way, most of us need to unplug, to put down the devices, and simplify. I know it is cold outside, but don’t let that daunt you. Bundle up, grab a blanket and set out To watch [the] woods fill up with snow.

FERNIEFIX.COM

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Outdoor Life

Learn to Adjust Your Machine

by SHANTELLE WEIR

S

leds are complex machines, but there are some simple adjustments you can make to really change your ride and step up your game. The setup of that machine is necessary to be able to ride comfortably and smoothly. It could be the difference of a day riding on top of the snow or getting stuck IN the snow, which can be exhausting. Bar height, suspension and ski pressure are a good place to start personalizing your ride.

When you get a brand new or new-to-you sled, chances are it is not set up right for you. Experimenting with these adjustments will help match your set up to you and your riding style, making your day of sledding much more enjoyable.

Bar height It is common for people to set their bar height while standing in the garage. This may seem practical, but it doesn’t work well in the mountains because we spend a lot of time with our sleds on edge. Setting your bars about 2” lower than what’s comfortable while on a flat surface will ensure that you are able to effectively use your body while riding off-cambered terrain.You should have to reach down for your bars. This seems and feels unnatural at first, but as soon you get onto a side hill, it gives you more leverage. When you have your bars too high it changes your body position and leaves you with your bars in your chest or pushing you far back on your sled. Both of these instances lead to rounding uphill or wheely-ing excessively, making you less efficient and less controlled.

FULL THROTTLE

shocks in the skid, a front and a rear. The best way to learn what they do is to go to the extreme on each one.

Set them really light to start, see how it feels and how it handles and then keep changing it until you find the attributes that work for you.

If adjusted incorrectly, the sled will handle poorly. For example, you may experience darting, pushing, weird weight transfer and all-override instability. Adjusting the rear suspension can really change the attitude of your sled. It allows weight transfer.

When you accelerate, the weight transfers off of the skis and onto the track. This changes how the sled feels by making it lighter during throttle applications. If the sled transfers too much weight, it can make you feel out of control, lifting the skis high in the air. A huge difference can be made in overall ride predictability here.

Ski Pressure Ski pressure adjustments usually start with the front shock in the skid. Lots of pre-load makes light skis and vice versa.

So, lower those bars! Or at least try it.

The main question here is whether you want to use your skis to steer or to balance. Ski pressure is unique to each rider. Some people like to run with heavy skis. The advantage to this is it will steer well on the trail, generally drives easy and goes in the direction the skis are pointed.

The disadvantage to this is the sled feels heavy and is hard to ride in more advanced terrain.

Suspension The main goal with suspension set up is balance. To put it simply, there are two

If your sled has light ski pressure, it will try to push through the corners even when your skis are turned. While this sounds counter intuitive, the advantage is it helps

MATT KUHN PHOTO

you put your sled on edge resulting in a nimble and manoeuvrable ride. Playing with these shocks will give you the chance to really find what suits your riding style best.

Front suspension, which is the shocks for the skis, mostly adjusts how your sled feels in the bumps and uneven terrain. Again, going to both extremes, stiff and soft, will allow you to understand how this affects handling.

In any case, spending a little time to set up these few simple things can make your ride a lot more efficient. Always adjust one thing at a time so you can be sure about the results.You can visit your local sled dealer to help with this, because a well set up sled will up your sledding game!

FERNIEFIX.COM

37

Outdoor Life

NEVER HAVE I EVER

Big Bang Bagels

by JESSE BELL

F

or years I’ve stumbled into Big Bang Bagels on early mornings. Whether to cure the hangover I nurse on New Year’s Day, or to fill my stomach before rushing to the ski hill, I can always count on the bagel shop, as dependable as the line-up that overflows outside its doors.

“Can I get an Avolauncher, on a salty-top whole wheat with fried ham, please?” I order. My go-to. Salty. Filling. Delicious.

Or the Big Banger, for those days where you just need an egg.

Then finally, on a hot summer day in August, I make bagels. Don’t tell anyone, but I got their secret recipe:

just kiddin this isnt the recipe fooled yo 3 squirts of Just kidding. I don’t know the recipe. But I do know that if you want to make bagels at Big Bang you have to get up early.

Painstakingly early. So early you feel like a shell of a human.

I wake up at 5am and drag myself to the little corner brick shop on Main Street.

The air’s already warm, and Michael Bull greets me – a bagel-maker turned school teacher, who still makes bagels in the summer months. Tina Turner blasts through the speakers overhead, and the shop’s alive before it even opens. I need coffee.

JESSE BELL PHOTO

“How do we make bagels?” I ask Michael, unaware that last night’s mascara shadows my eyes.

to one, hot sauce and jalapenos to another, cinnamon and raisin, cheddar. One batch of dough makes five batches of bagels.

into the oven to bake. The shop smells decadent, rich, cheesy. I smell decadent, rich, cheesy.

“I can’t tell you.” Cheeky. I wash my hands and get to work.

We cut 4.4 to 4.6 ounces of dough, roll, connect both ends into the shape of a skinny donut. The dough rises, and Cat, a new bagel-maker, puts the bagels into a giant pot of boiling water. She takes them out, tops them with shredded cheese, poppy seeds, cinnamon, and slides them

I’m hungry.

We work our way through the first batch of dough, add flour and other ingredients to Hobart, the mixer, turn him on, wait.

The dough reaches desired consistency and we separate it into five—add blueberries

“Making bagels means we get to eat them, right?”

“I eat about three bagels a day,” replies Michael. He’s skinny, the proud owner of a fast metabolism that leaves me cursing

beneath my breath. “Sometimes I have cookies for breakfast.” Seriously?

Bomb. Two-and-a-half pounds of bagel and ingredients.

Big Bang Bagels begins in Carolyn Doyle’s kitchen in 2008. Carolyn bakes 200 bagels in her house every Saturday, and sells all 200 at the Fernie Mountain Market on Sundays. She develops the Fernie-style bagel; fluffier, bigger, better than the counterpart Montreal-style bagel.

Michael finishes The Bomb in 42 minutes once, sort of. He pukes along the way. The record? Five minutes, 35 seconds.

When Carolyn outgrows her kitchen, she asked to use the kitchen at 2-for-1 Pizza uptown. The owner happily hands her the keys, and twice a week that autumn she delivers specialty bagel orders from her bicycle.

One year after she sells out at her first Mountain Market, Carolyn opens Big Bang Bagels on Main Street.

50,000 bagels; that’s how many they’ve made this summer. A reflection of success, of support from Fernie and its visitors.

Inside, there’s a framed photograph of a man with his face in a giant bagel – The

“We’re now a part of Fernie,” Carolyn says.

“There are so many locals who come out of the woodwork in the shoulder season.

We love our staff, we have a lot of fun.”

Indeed, Big Bang Bagels is notorious for throwing the best staff parties. They nearly always win best costume at the annual Raft Race. I can’t help but notice the camaraderie between staff. It’s barely 7am.

Not just staff, but family.

When time comes for me to fold my last bagel, I don’t want to leave. I could stand in the back with Michael all day, dance to Tina Turner, eat bagels, drink coffee.

Though, if I ate three a day I wouldn’t last long. I grab a bag of day old bagels from out front, and carry on my merry, bagelfilled way.

January Group of the Month is the Community Fund

This is Tyler’s sled. Don’t be like Tyler. nicknaultphotography.ca

Safe sledding.

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Outdoor Life

HURT SO GOOD

Best Year Yet

by TOM GIBSON

I

n this month’s issue I’m going to take a look at ways to make this year the best year yet – cliché, I know!

1. Set Intentions Not Goals In my world, I often hear people talk about setting goals for themselves; however, recent research has proven that setting goals doesn’t really help us succeed and it certainly doesn’t make us any happier.

This is typically how people set goals: set a goal, work towards said goal, complete that goal, create a new goal, work towards new goal, complete goal, set a new goal – and so on, believing that happiness and fulfilment is the other side of the goal, and if we meet our goals we will be happier and more successful. However, this is actually completely backwards to how the brain works, if we can raise the brain’s happiness in the present then we start to get what Shawn Anchor calls the “happiness advantage.” When we live in a happy positive state our brain is 31% more productive than in any other state.

This makes us more creative, gives us more energy, and overall, makes us more productive. So this year, let’s focus on the present not the future, write down things that went well today, focus on your current performance, not future performances. For a deeper understanding of this topic, take a moment to read some of Shawn Anchor’s studies.

2. Write it Down, Make a Plan You don’t have to make a fancy training plan or calendar, but just writing down what classes, activities or sports you want to do is going to help motivate you to get out there and do them. Look ahead at your work-week and social-life schedule. If you see spare time, then fill it with something you want to do. But if you’ve got a hectic week at work or you’ve got lots on the go, then simply don’t over load yourself.

TROY NIXON PHOTO

Missing a couple of workouts isn’t going to ruin your overall fitness. Remember to also include time to rest, the body and mind need time to rest and repair tired muscles.

3. Focus On the Positives When I’m coaching skiing, I really try to always add to my client’s or athlete’s skiing.

I reinforce what’s already working, make them aware of what they are doing well, and also point out when they make a great move. Try this with your own sport. Instead of trying to take away what’s not so good about your technique, try to add the move you need to get better and change. It’s a way more beneficial way of improving.

4. Join a Team, Club or Group I love nothing more than chasing friends

around the mountain on skis or trying to keep up to them on a bike. It pushes me to become better, but it also gives me the motivation to get out there when I may otherwise choose to be lazy. If we make plans with a group to go out and ride, then we’ll often be more motivated to get out there and do it. This could be joining a spin class, or joining in the women’s crosscountry ski nights. Fernie has a lot of teams, clubs and groups in almost every sport the valley has to offer. I highly recommend you seek out a group or team and join in their activities.

Next month, I’ll be hitting the toughest classes led by female athletes, and reporting back here. Wish me luck!

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JULIE KELLY PHOTO

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Running in Montane

by JULIE KELLY, FTA

Distance: Approx. 7 km Time: 1-1.25 hours Difficulty: Blue

L

et’s keep it simple this month. This route requires minimal equipment and travel time. Put on your trail running shoes and head to the old barn in Montane either by foot or car.You can park just off Coal Creek Road by the barn.

Jump on the trail, following the “multiuse” signs. This is a nice warm up on level terrain. Stay right and cross the bridge for a short grunt up to your first road crossing.

Stay right on Montane, climbing some gradual switchbacks. Continue meandering through the trees, crossing a number of bridges on undulating single track. Once you hit the power line stay left for a short climb up to Montane hut. Take in the amazing views and head in to the hut if you need to warm up. Head back the way you came. Lucky you, it’s all down hill!

online booking available FERNIEFIX.COM

43

Thunder Meadows

Health & Wellness

Certified Professional Massage Therapy & Acupuncture Services

Open 7 days a week!

632 2nd Ave. 250-423-2673 Convenient Online Booking ThunderMeadowsHealth.ca

rockies notary & legal

Fernie Counselling & Consulting

A Division of Rockies Law Corporation

Specializing in Child and Family Care, Play Therapy and EMDR Therapy

Real Estate, Family Law, Business Law, Corporate and Commercial, Civil Litigation, Personal Injury, Tax Law, Wills and Estates

Karen Tse | Graeme R. Nunn | Marian Gravelle

Fernie

Sparwood

PO Box 490, Suite 202, 502 Third avenue Fernie, BC V0B 1M0 Tel: (250) 423-4446 | Fax: (250) 423-4065

PO Box 1886, #116 - 101 Red Cedar Drive Sparwood, BC V0B 2G0 Tel: (250) 425-2114 | Fax: (250) 425-2204

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

Health and Lifestyle

FERNIE FLAVOURS

Comfort Food

by KATIE HAMAR

M

ac and cheese. Salty French fries. A steaming bowl of chicken noodle soup just like Mom used to make. Makes you feel warm and fuzzy just thinking about these comfort foods, doesn’t it? Is there a magic ingredient in these dishes that makes us happy, or is it something else that creates this comfort?

Oftentimes, we affiliate comfort with high-calorie, and it’s true that many of our favourite comfort foods are not the healthiest. Foods high in sugar and fat activate our brains’ reward systems and give us a feeling of wellbeing. If it’s been a bad day, we want a hug in the form of ooey-gooey-ness; something to ground us and provide consolation. It could be argued that comfort-food consumption is a form of emotional eating in less diagnostic terms; a coping mechanism for something we’re going through. Research has found, however, that the feel-better formula is not as straightforward as unhappiness plus comfort food equals happiness.

A NASA-funded study by the Health Psychology journal and researchers at the University of Minnesota found that comfort food has no effect on improving a person’s mood. The study was created to test if food could be a way to maintain astronauts’ contentedness on long missions, such as to Mars. Researchers showed study participants various upsetting movie scenes, then asked them to rate their mood. Understandably, they said they felt awful. Next, some of the participants were given their favourite comfort food, some were given a bland snack, and others received nothing. They were then asked to rate their mood again. It was found that all participants’ moods had lifted at the same rate, regardless of if they had eaten their favourite comfort food. The study concluded that there is no ingredient in comfort food that magically lifts a person’s

ISLAND LAKE LODGE’S CHORIZO AND CLAM PAPPARDELLE PASTA MIKE MCPHEE PHOTO

mood more than just waiting for the cloud to lift. It is undeniable, however, that there’s something comforting about a cosy stew and crusty bread on a cold day – so why is this?

Most researchers agree that the power of comfort food resides in the association it calls to mind, not the actual food itself.

Grilled cheese feels like childhood, a simpler time, less responsibility, and coming in from playing in the backyard for lunch.

Chicken noodle soup is synonymous with being taken care of, feeling safe, and belonging. That dish you always make when your best friends come over? It makes you feel good because it brings back feelings of closeness, fun and excitement.

It could be argued, then, that if association is the magic of comfort food, senses other than taste could provide similar nostalgia.

Smell, after all, has been deemed the strongest memory trigger and can provide

time-warp style flashbacks that leave your heart thumping.

So, the question is: If the comfort aspect of comfort food is not associated with the actual food but is, in fact, just nostalgia that could be triggered via other stimuli, is there still a point in eating these comfort foods at all? HECK YES! Eat that mac and cheese but eat it, not because it’s magic, but because it’s damn delicious.

Some of Fernie’s best comfort foods: Nevados’ Tortilla Soup and Cornbread with Jalapeno Pineapple Marmalade and Cilantro Lime Butter Himalayan Spice Bistro’s Malai Kofta and Garlic Naan Island Lake Lodge’s Chorizo and Clam Pappardelle Pasta

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Health and Lifestyle

THE FIND

Simple Pleasures

by CRYS STEWART

USING LESS TO DELIVER MORE IN LOVE AND LIFE.

Good Clean Fun Does it surprise you that Fernie shoppers have a thing for a fuchsia and zebra-striped bath soap called Wild Thang? Me neither. It’s flying off the shelf at The Healing Hollow. But is there more to this than just wishful thinking? Wild Thang creator, Karey Pion of Elko-based Soco Soaps, explained “I went out of my comfort zone to do something crazy and fun. The zebra stripes make it pretty and also super strong – like East Kootenay girls!” It’s also about as pure as you can get, using only eight ingredients. Compare that to the 16 ingredients used in a leading brand of “pure” soap (OK, Dove Pure & Sensitive Beauty Bar). But Jess Snively of The Healing Hollow’s head store in Kimberley, got straight to the point. “It’s a top seller, for sure,” she said. “It just smells good – an aphrodisiac kind of smell.” What’s not to love?

Wild Thang soap, $6.50, also available in Big Softy Lotion Bar, $14, both at The Healing Hollow, 571 2nd Ave., and at socosoaps.com.

WILD THANG HANDMADE BAR SOAP AND LOTION BAR

BY SOCO SOAPS.

It’s a Spring Thing Sarah Pike’s pottery is striking, not only in the way she’s worked the clay (she hand-rolls each piece rather than using a wheel) but also in how much her subtle designs convey. Take one of her recent works, a large bowl finished with hand-drawn songbirds. The inspiration for the one-of-a-kind piece lies outside the windows of her studio in West Fernie – a stretch of wild wetland bordering the Elk River. In the spring, she explained, “We get tons of birds. We hear them calling to each other.

Whether you’re in a long-term relationship or you’re single, you feel that buzz in the air.” If this bowl is calling to you, act fast. It’s the only one of its kind and part of Sarah’s collection being featured in the Fernie Museum’s Artist Spotlight for the month of February.

Large bowl, $250, available starting February 1 at the Fernie Museum, 491 2nd Ave. Learn more at sarahpikepottery.com.

SARAH PIKE WITH HER ONE-OF-A-KIND BOWL.

A Bed with Real History Willard Ripley and his team at River City Woodworks are known for their drop-dead gorgeous custom kitchens but it might be Willard’s own bed that gets you romancing the past and future. His bed’s frame is made from one huge cedar tree burnt to a tall stump during one of Fernie’s disastrous fires over a hundred years ago. Deep grizzly claw marks and large holes made by pileated woodpeckers give new meaning to the term “distressed wood.” How can you have a bed of your own steeped in time and place and worth handing down to future generations? Start by walking out your back door and go stump hunting. A bed commission will take River City Woodworks a minimum of eight weeks to complete. And if you’d rather they source the wood, they can do that, too.

Queen-sized bed, starting at approximately $5,000, at River City Woodworks, 11 Kutenai Rd., 250-423-3331, or contact rivercity.ca.

WILLARD RIPLEY’S FOUND WOOD BED MADE BY HIM AND HIS TEAM AT RIVER CITY WOODWORKS.

Together But Not “The objective was to create something physically light and draws you in,” said local goldsmith and jewellery designer Matt Martin, describing the two sterling silver bangles he held up for me to get a closer look. “They profile each other,” he pointed out. His deceptively simple design takes the notion of stacking bracelets and gives it a twist. Although the two bangles look like they should fit snugly, a closer look reveals that they do more of a dance with each other than lay flat together. Kahlil Gibran’s oft-quoted advice to lovers included “Let there be spaces in your togetherness.” If that works for you, these bangles will, too.

Profile bangles, $129 each, at Element7Nine, 592 3rd Ave., Unit B, element7nine.com.

MATTHEW MARTIN OF ELEMENT7NINE HOLDS HIS STERLING SILVER PROFILE BANGLES.

FERNIEFIX.COM

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#mydogloves2018 For the month of February join us on instagram and facebook for a chance to win a years worth of Petcurean Pet Nutrition Dog Food!

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Health and Lifestyle

FOOD INTELLIGENCE

Simplify Your Diet for a Healthy Heart

by TIFFANY SCHEBESCH, RD, BASC

A

hh, can you feel it? Love is in the air this month. Hunter is a loving dad to his children and partner; however, with his kids starting high school he feels that it’s finally time to give himself a little more TLC. In light of February’s heart health month, he decided to check his blood pressure while out getting groceries and to his surprise, it was quite high, 148/92. He had never smoked, was a healthy weight and tried to keep his stress levels down at work. Upon checking in with his doctor, he learned that as you get older, and with his father passing away from a heart attack, he was at a higher cardiovascular risk.

Hunter knew it was time to get some more information to stay healthy for his family and have the ability to keep up with his active teens. Thankfully, he visited his dietician to learn about a few more steps he could take to keep his most vital organ in superior shape.

1. Choose (your fats) Wisely Not all dietary fats are created equal. But when you’re looking online for the best types to choose, you quickly become bombarded with mixed messages – one day eggs are healthy, the next they should be completely avoided. Back in the day, doctors touted the message that more fat in our diets equals clogged arteries; new research has shown this isn’t quite the case.

However, it is important to consider the type of fat you’re eating, and remember that fat adds a lot of calories to your diet – so it should be used in moderation. I’ve compiled a quick breakdown on heartsmart fats to choose more often and which to avoid, from top to bottom:

SUBMITTED PHOTO

Omega-3 Fats When it comes to heart health, research has shown that these are the best fats to choose.

Omega -3 fats not only increase our HDL

(good) cholesterol in our bodies but they also decrease our triglycerides (unhealthy blood fats), and help to reduce the risk of Continued on next page FERNIEFIX.COM

49

Health. Beauty.

Happiness. Confidence.

New patients welcome Dental insurance accepted For all your orthodontic needs

Dr. Peach

292 - 2nd Avenue, Fernie, BC

250-423-6838

dentist@kahane.ca • www.kahane.ca

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heart disease. These powerhouse fats are found in fatty fish such as salmon, herring, char, and lake trout. Alternately, a few great plant sources include chia seed, flax seeds, pumpkin seeds and walnuts.

Unsaturated

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There are two types of unsaturated fats polyunsaturated, and monounsaturated.

The monounsaturated fats help to decrease LDL (bad) cholesterol and increase HDL cholesterol in our bodies – these are the best fats to choose for everyday cooking and eating. Find them in canola oil, olive oil, nuts, seeds and avocado. The polyunsaturated fats can help lower LDL cholesterol if used in moderation and are found in the “S” oils - sunflower, safflower, and soybean oils.

Saturated

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Saturated fats are found in two sources: animal products such as meat and dairy, and some plant products such as coconut and palm oil. These fats cause your body to make more LDL (bad) cholesterol, which increases the risk of blockage in your arteries. This increases your risk of heart attack and stroke. The simple way to distinguish saturated from unsaturated fats? Saturated fats are usually solid at room temperature, whereas unsaturated fats are liquid at room temperature.

Trans These bad boys are the worst fats; they increase your LDL (bad) cholesterol and decrease your HDL (good) cholesterol.

They can be found in processed foods such as fried foods, shortening, and commercially baked goods. Bonus tip, limit foods that have “hydrogenated” on food label ingredient lists.

2. Get Back to Basics Our modern society’s expectation of fast and efficient as the new norm is having detrimental effects on our country’s health.

We’re slowly moving away from the simple life tasks that have kept us healthy for generations. I’m speaking specifically here to good ol’ home cookin’. It’s really

...it is important to consider the type of fat you’re eating, and remember that fat adds a lot of calories to your diet – so it should be used in moderation. as simple as that. Any idea where the majority of sodium, unhealthy fats and excess calories in our diet stem from? You got it, fast and convenience foods – or in technical terms, ultra-processed foods.

Interestingly, 75% of the sodium in our diets arises from these processed foods, not the salt shaker on the table. Lowering sodium in your diet helps lower high blood pressure, which is linked to heart disease and stroke. Aim for less than 5% sodium on food labels, use herbs and spices to flavour dishes, and cook with more whole foods.

3. Exercise Your Hardest Working Muscle Every day, your heart is tasked with pumping over 7000 litres of blood through your body’s system of blood vessels, which span over 96,500 kilometres – enough to circle around the world twice! It comes with no surprise that your heart needs a regular workout to continue pumping strong. Aim for about 30 minutes of aerobic activity, five days of the week.

Some examples of aerobic activity include hiking, swimming and fast-paced walking.

The harder you workout, the higher your heart rate rises, meaning your heart is getting even stronger! Pressed for time?

Even a few quick walks during the day is great – just ensure at least ten minutes of continuous, heart-pumping activity to get the best cardiovascular benefit.

The bottom line? Consider using more omega-3 and unsaturated fats in your cooking. Cook your meals at home, with a variety of whole foods. And finally, get out biking, jogging or dancing your way to a healthier heart!

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Health and Lifestyle

FAMILY WELLNESS

Simplify Your Health in Four Easy Steps

by DR. TAINA TURCASSO, N.D., R.M.

W

e are a month into the new year and many of us have been hard at work trying to stick to our resolutions, “Dry January,” cleanse, or whatever January has held for us. For me, January is a month to complete a round of “Whole30,” which allows me to reset my body with 30 days of a whole foods, grain/alcohol/dairy free diet. The challenge with resolutions or a 30-day cleanse (or anything designed to be short-term) is trying to figure out how to use it to improve the quality of your life and your health long-term. The reason we make these changes is because we want to improve on what we were doing before, not because we want to slip back into our old habits.

Most of us are familiar with the idea that a new routine takes 30 days to become a habit, but I believe that it can take up to several months. One way to make these changes stick is to start small and make simpler changes. Big, long-lasting life changes often start with small steps that you build upon over a long period of time.

Here are four small but impactful steps that you can take to improve and simplify your health long term: Drink More Water An adequate amount of clean water should not be understated as an important aspect of health. Many Canadians are not meeting their minimum water requirement and some drink no water at all, drinking only pop, coffee, and juice. While juice does provide hydration, caffeinated beverages actually increase your need for water intake.

Water is so important for maintaining healthy skin and hair, promoting optimal functioning of your internal organs, and improving energy. The average adult

V. CROOME PHOTO

Big, long-lasting life changes often start with small steps that you build upon over a long period of time. requires two to three litres of water daily, more if engaging in moderate exercise or drinking caffeinated beverages. Start by buying a water bottle and carrying it around with you so you can work on meeting your water goals throughout the day. As an added bonus, you will reduce the amount of plastic, single use water bottles being sold.

Move Your Body Almost all New Year’s resolutions revolve around some form of physical activity. We resolve to train for a marathon, sign up for a triathlon, or to suddenly start lifting weights when jumping straight into these activities (for most of us) will lead to injury and ultimately abandonment of the long term goal. Be aware of your current fitness level and simply resolve to move your body more. Train for a 5k, start going for a daily walk, or start lifting weights under the guidance of a trainer who will adjust based on where you are at.You are much more likely to ultimately run that half marathon if you start out at a pace that is easier to maintain.

Make Simple Shifts to a Healthier Diet It is very difficult to suddenly overhaul your diet completely and stick with it long term, especially if you are starting out with the typical Canadian diet. Start by eliminating pop or any artificially flavoured or sweetened beverage, buy most of your food on the perimeter of the grocery store and not in the centre aisles (reducing your intake of processed food), start cooking your own food rather than eating out, getting take out, or reheating frozen foods, and eat mindfully. This sounds simple but these changes go a long way towards shifting your diet to a healthier one. Commit yourself to cooking your own food and taking the time to eat, being mindful of every bite and not just inhaling your dinner in five minutes while watching television. Find some fun chefs who cook healthy, whole foods to follow on Instagram and be inspired to try new ingredients or techniques or share recipes with friends. Make it fun and plan social events around these healthy meals.

Practice Mindfulness Many of us are aware of the benefits of mindfulness-based activities like meditation and yoga, including (but not limited to) better sleep, reduced stress, improved mood and increased longevity, but few of us are able to jump into a full practice.

Start slowly by downloading a meditation app or start with five or ten minutes of breathing exercises daily. Resolve to simply focus on the present and be more aware of your surroundings as you go through your day. Be mindful.

We all have the best of intentions when we make our resolutions and are so hard on ourselves when we fail, and most of us ultimately fail. Set yourself up for success and this time next year, you will be building upon the changes you have made this year rather than resolving to start over again.

Y A M A G O Y A

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BOOKED! Fernie Writers’ Series 2018 Presented by the Fernie Heritage Library

JOSEPH BOYDEN

2 2 2 2 2 GILLER PRIZE WINNER Friday March 9th, 7:00 pm

Fernie Heritage Library Doors at 7:00pm Reading at 8:00pm

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Bits and Bytes

Data Loss

KeyPass file – and they have access to everything. KeyPass even allows for notes with each entry so I can make specific requests for each item if I want.

by KEVIN MCISAAC

A

recent tragedy reminded me of the fragility of life, but also its ability to endure after someone’s passing. Anyone that has dealt with the death of a family member will be all too familiar with the fact that someone’s passing starts a whole new chapter for those left behind. Dealing with the inevitable paperwork can be challenging.

To add to that challenge is our new digital life. The vast majority of us now have significant portions of our lives living in bits here and there. Some of it on the computers and devices we own. Some of it on the Internet. What happens to it all when we die?

Please bear in mind that I am not a lawyer and am not giving legal advice. My advice is that you get proper legal advice.

If you haven’t made a plan, then the answer is very muddy. In theory power of attorney over your estate includes your online life, but since many pieces of information are kept on systems outside of Canada, for example, even that may be a little fuzzy at times.

There are still very few laws that speak directly to post-life digital laws, but most of the usual laws, such as privacy and ownership still apply.

Aside from getting good legal advice, there are a few things that you can do to help with the management of your affairs upon your passing. They are mostly comprised of what information you should collect and share.

The first and best piece of advice is to collect all of your usernames, passwords, and PINs and store them in a secure fashion. Then decide who is going to be responsible for dealing with your digital affairs and ensure that they will have access to this file.

THE ANSWER GUY

You don’t have to use KeyPass. Even a simple spreadsheet file will work. Excel lets you put a password on a spreadsheet. So, you can use that for storage.

Of course your executor needs to have access to it to make use of it.

STOCK PHOTO

As with all estate planning, sitting down with pen and paper and making a list...and collecting the information in advance are the keys to easing your digital passing.

Think for a brief moment of all the things you have sitting on your computer.

Pictures, videos, emails, bank statements, etc. Something as trite as not having your Window’s login can become a huge burden for your family in trying to access those.

You may be in the position where you have information that doesn’t belong to you. Most of us work with or for businesses and organizations. Much of the correspondence and files associated with those may be owned by them. Hopefully, they have policies regarding that data that you will simply follow, but maybe not.

I use an application call KeyPass. It’s available for Windows, Macs, phones, etc.

It securely stores usernames, passwords and other data. I store all my information in there. It has extremely secure encryption.

Now I only need provide my executor with one password – the one to my

A simple way is to email your executor your KeyPass file every month and include the password for the file with your will and other documents. Be sure to clearly explain who is to receive it. This way the person with your KeyPass file won’t be able to use it until needed, but they will always have a current copy.

It is also a good idea to make sure that you are not the sole possessor of information needed by organizations you work with.

Several times over the past few years I’ve been called after someone’s passing, asking if I can retrieve important information that the person possessed, now needed by the organization, and no one else has a copy nor access. A burden I’m sure the person never intended to foist on them.

Social media accounts, online shopping accounts, email accounts, etc. All of these need to be thought of. Do you have reoccurring online purchasing, such as for domains you own? Credit cards stored on eBay or Amazon? Do want your social media accounts closed? An announcement made on them?

As with all estate planning, sitting down with pen and paper and making a list, discussing it with your family, and collecting the information in advance are the keys to easing your digital passing. 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.

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Embrace the

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Bits and Bytes

February 2018

by YANN LORANGER

T

he first half of February is under the influence of the total lunar eclipse that took place January 31. Then St.Valentine’s Day occurs and the energies shift to an impressive dance between Mars and Venus.

While the first half makes us feel very selfless, the second half provides many lessons on our sentimental life.

Since 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) Impatience People around you are doing things you might not normally consider. While they are all getting at it, and you’re waiting for them to do “more important things” your curiosity kicks in. Don’t be afraid or overcautious, you might enjoy new activities and the experience they bring.

Taurus (April 20 - May 20) Imbalance You feel either stressed and wired, or sleepy and depressed. Not great to hear, I agree, but there is a reason for such feelings.

The total lunar eclipse sets the line for you in a challenging way.You feel like your personality is not important to be considered and yet all you are learning emotionally stimulates you.

Gemini (May 21 - June 20) Lightweight The decisions being made around you are beyond your understanding.You’re usually happy to meet people and talk, but now find there is less talk and more decisions, less meeting and more happening, less thinking and more following. It is somehow unusual, but not bad at all.

While the first half [of February] makes us feel very selfless, the second half provides many lessons on our sentimental life.

Cancer (June 21 - July 22) Discretion You are there, alive and present, but not everybody seems to see you.You have an important and reassuring role, but nobody will really notice at first glance.You will have the ability to calm others with your simple presence, a valuable gift for February.

Leo (July 23 - Aug 22) Frustration You feel rather odd. The total lunar eclipse just happened in Leo.Your sentimental life will be a bit tense.Your emotions seem powerful and as you finally feel comfortable sharing them, an earthly cloud shades everyone once again, leaving you alone with this ball of emotions.

Virgo (Aug 23 - Sept 22) Uncertainty A lot of important things are happening, and you are not sure how to get a good grasp on them.You can see and feel them, but the nature of what is happening is vaster than what you usually think about.

You feel as though you are missing an important point or are losing control.

Libra (Sept 23 - Oct 22) Dance The great dance of Mars and Venus will impact you the most. Why? Simply because you are the most sensitive to human dynamics, human love, the very unique interaction of the human will, heart and mind within oneself and with each other.

ASTROLOGY

Scorpio (Oct 23 - Nov 21) Landing Jupiter is slowing down his course and will come to a pause in Scorpio early in March.

You will feel like a meteorite entering the atmosphere and preparing to touch ground… in other words: hot, fast, unique but heavy.

Sagittarius (Nov 22 - Dec 21) Manager Mars in Sagittarius will first form a square with Neptune, then with Venus. Your fire energy will try to push, change and organize those two Pisces champions. This is “Mission Impossible” and will generate a lot of confusion. Questions bring answers it is a great opportunity for your masculine side to start understanding your feminine side.

Capricorn (Dec 22 - Jan 19) Silent You are the quiet force. Although indirectly, your influence is strong and leads the entire game this month. People around you are trying to read your silent language, everything you do will be amplified.

Aquarius (Jan 20 - Feb 18) Trickster This month, you steal the show!

Something very special happens when Aquarius does that: since he doesn’t do it for his own pride, it opens the door to more elevated realities to manifest.

Pisces (Feb 19 - March 20) Beauty The beauty of the “Divine Feminine” will be blessing you throughout February. After St-Valentine’s day, it will start colouring your feelings and if you are able to respect those feelings, it will become a great source of inspiration.

FERNIEFIX.COM

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Fernie Fun

FIX TRIVIA

ferniefix

FernieFixMag

SPOT THE DIFFERENCE

RIDDLES

Can you spot the five differences between these two images?

Credit: Riddles.com

Have a picture to submit for Fernie Fun? Send it to info@clarismedia.com.

FernieFix

1. Which one of Santa’s reindeer can be seen on Valentines day?

2. What fruit has its seeds on the outside?

3. I go up when rain comes down. What am I? 4. How do you divide the sea in half?

5. What do you call a sleeping bull?

FIND THE Somewhere in this issue is a little pink heart. Can you find it?

ANSWER SPOT THE DIFFERENCE JANUARY

Credit: HDWallpapers.com

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ANSWERS TO BRAIN TEASERS:

1. TCupid 2. A strawberry 3. An umbrella 4. With a sea saw. 5. A bulldozer!

your next adventure starts here BR

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LOT LOT SOLD 23

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• All lots within 300m of Montane trails.

• Choose from several preferred homebuilders.

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From $198,000 Build your dream home in Fernie’s newest mountain community.

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BREW

23 Custom Home Lots Montane Stage 4

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Future Development Montane Stage 5 Proposed 2018

MONTANE PARKWAY

LEGEND STAGE 1-2 THE COTTAGES STAGE 3 STAGE 4 FUTURE LOTS

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.

FERNIEFIX.COM Certain photographs may not have been taken at the site and views are not from a particular lot.

59

Ski-in Ski-out AT F E R N I E A L P I N E R E S O R T

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Polar Peak

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L O DG E S

CABINS

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Contact First Choice Realty, Lauren Gervais 250 946 6758 or Jolanda Redeker 250 420 1102.

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Pricing includes all appliances, fully finished walkout basement & private hot tub.

Floor layouts, interior design and features call: Lori Russell, Fernie Real Estate 250-278-6444

Fernie’s British Columbia Georgie Award Winner and Canadian National Award for Housing Excellence Winner. www.fernievacationproperties.com