Fernie Fix September 2019

SEPTEMBER 2019 | ISSUE 153

T HE

B EG I N N I N GS

I SS U E

Special Feature, Keith Liggett on Demo Derby, what it is and why the Lions do it.

Feature Resident Bob Livsey, how we’ve all come to know and love “Nature Bob.”

Shelby Cain reminisces as she discusses endings to make room for new beginnings.

Lacey Wilson and Barrie Elliott on what the field to table experience means to them.

FERNIEFIX.COM

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The organizers of the Wapiti Music Festival would like to thank everyone that has supported our festival!

We would especially like to thank our sponsors and volunteers. And a huge thanks to you the citizens and businesses of Fernie that support the arts and culture in our community. Special thanks to our 2019 artist Brina Schenk and those who participated in the Wapiti Art Expo.

OUR SPONSORS

Teck•City of Fernie•Leavitt Machinery•Stanford Resort Red Tree Lodge•Best Western Plus Fernie Mountain Lodge Park Place Lodge•Fernie Super 8 Hotel•TD Bank Claris Media•The Fernie Fix•Cameron Enterprises Kootenay Mountain Culture Magazine•Save On Foods RCR Summit Fund•Flameguard Safety Services•Tourism Fernie Fernie Brewing Company•Snow Valley Mini Storage Fernie Golf Club•Fernie Home Hardware Building Centre Fernie Arts Station•Fernie Chamber of Commerce sponsored by

www.wapitimusicfestival.com

SEPTEMBER 2019 EDITOR’S FIX | 5 BEGINNINGS ISSUE SPECIAL FEATURE | 7 The Demo Derby by Keith Liggett

BUSINESS IN THE VALLEY | 11 Business News/New Business It’s in the Numbers by Roman Rybar, CFP What New Investors Need to Know

ARTS AND ENTERTAINMENT | 17 Feature Artist – Michael Penny Preserving the Past: Building For the Future - Beginning Again by Elana Zysblat and Rebecca Hall ArtBeat - Beginning to End by Michael Hepher At Peace and Yet On Fire – Rise Up by Sadie Rosgen Rental Fix – Good Omens by Andrew Vallance

COMMUNITY AND EVENTS | 30 Feature Resident – Bob Livsey by Krista Turcasso City Corner with Ange Qualizza – The Friendly Face of Bylaw Planning Ahead - Begin With the End in Mind

by Kerri Wall Family Stoke – The End by Shelby Cain

RECREATION AND OUTDOOR LIFE | 39 Fernie Mountain Mammas – Now, Let’s Begin!

by Yvonne Prest Never Have I Ever - Great Greens by Jesse Bell Hitting the Trails: Transrockies by Julie Kelly, FTA Beneath the Mountains We Grow - Restart by Amy Attalla

HEALTH AND LIFESTYLE | 45 Elements of Movement – More Core with Maddy Alaric Fundamentals: Elk Burgers with Huckleberry Margaritas

by Lacey Wilson, Recipes by Barrie Elliott A Look Down Second Ave – Wear Denim by Emma Polit

BITS AND BYTES | 49 Astrology – September by Ashley Kristina

FERNIE FUN | 50 Fix Trivia COVER: Bookworm. Photo by Emily Park, FB: Emily Park Photography THIS PAGE: Fall Colours on HyperExtension. Photo by Ben Campbell, firstlightvisualmedia.com

ISSUE 153

THE BEGINNINGS ISSUE

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EDITOR’S FIX

“

The beginning is the most important part of the work.” ~ Plato

Recently, I completed a multi-stage mountain bike race for the first time since having kids. It felt big… an intention set two years before turning 40. And I’ll tell you, crossing the finish line in Fernie after seven days of epic-ness felt better than any race prior.

Don’t be fooled - it was tough. Not just the race, but balancing it all. And if you had been there when I first started biking years ago, you’d be surprised I ever continued.

I am pretty sure I openly stated (yelled? cried?) I would never step on a mountain bike ever again.

So, what happened? About 12 years ago a group of women took me under their wing and with their support and encouragement, I quickly developed a love of this sport. Every root, every rock, every trail conquered provided such a sense of accomplishment… and utter shock. I had never considered myself as athletic, and to be honest was told often I was quite the opposite. So not only did it change the CONTRIBUTORS

AMY ATTALLA is a 12 year old writer who attends the Fernie Academy. She has two sisters, a puppy named Rossi and enjoys biking, skiing, public speaking and writing.

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.

ANGE QUALIZZA is a nutty economist who has a passion for policy, governance and everything to do with municipal government! Let’s lift up the carpet and take a closer look inside City Hall.

ASHLEY KRISTINA has studied astrology for over twenty years and has been reading/teaching for five. For an in depth natal chart reading, email mountainashastrology@gmail.com.

BARRIE ELLIOTT and LACEY WILSON are the talent and inspiration behind Fernie Catering Co., specialising in family style dinners, casual fine dinning three-course dinners, passed canapés, charcuterie boards and anti-pesto platters.

EMMA POLIT likes to wander the world, swim in the seas and ride in the mountains. You may also find her sipping margaritas and eating tacos.

way I saw myself, it became an outlet, a sanctuary, a time to contemplate and feel connected with something so much bigger.

I don’t think about what might have happened if I had not persevered, if I had never done that ‘most important part of the work.’ Instead I focus on the lessons I’ve learned and continue to learn along the way, and try to share this with others, especially my daughters.

This July nearly every morning when the start gun went off, and nearly every time I crossed that finish line, my girls were there.

“Mom, are you nervous?” Aila would ask, just before we set out for the day.

“Yes, of course I am! Really nervous. But, that means it’s important to me and that I’ll feel that much prouder when we finish.”

She would tilt her head and look up at me, trying to figure it all out.

Last week, she was extremely nervous for a creative arts camp she had been excited about for weeks. So nervous, she nearly didn’t begin, exclaiming she was fine with just going to school and no programs for the rest of her life. To everyone’s relief, she did it and while was nervous each morning, JESSE BELL gets ready to go back to school, but first spends her summer mowing grass at the golf course. Then she discovers mowing grass is about so much more than clean cuts and fast greens.

JULIE KELLY is the Manager for the Fernie Trails Alliance and loves spending time on the Fernie trails.

KERRI WALL specialises in group facilitation, mediation, parent coaching, and leadership training.

She welcomes inquiries at kerriwall.ca.

MADDY ALARIC is a lover of putting things down and picking them back up again, whether it be weights or her two year old daughter. She loves inspiring people through her classes at Soar Studios and looks forward to sharing this love through her column, “Elements of Movement.”

she was excited, happy and keen each night.

On the last day, friends and family were invited to see what this awesome group had been working on through a performance, and it melted our hearts.

“Aila, I’m so proud of you! Are you proud of yourself? Are you happy you went that first day?”

“Yes, mom. It was so fun!”

She was just pickled. She overcame her fears, she persevered and gained confidence. And maybe, just maybe she made the connection and the next time she approaches something important to her, she embraces those nerves a little and falters a little less at the beginning.

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

REBECCA HALL works at the Fernie Museum.

She loves Fernie’s architecture and hopes that the Heritage Master Plan will help to spark joy in the hearts of Fernie’s residents.

ROMAN RYBAR has worked in the financial industry since 1996. He became a Limited Partner with Edward Jones in 2004. When he is not helping clients he can be found enjoying bike trails or manning the bbq for family and friends.

Every month SADIE ROSGEN teams up with some of Fernie’s brightest young writers collaborating on a given theme. If you are reading this and think that you are that person, drop her a line at sadiepumps@ gmail.com.

MICHAEL HEPHER is a painter, printmaker, sculptor and musician living and working in Fernie. His work is collected internationally and can be seen locally at Clawhammer Press and a variety of galleries in Western Canada.

SHELBY CAIN has lived in the East Kootenays most of her life. She’s a full-time writer and musician, her first novel, Mountain Girl, is available at a book store near you. Her second? Any day now…

MICHELLE SENIOR has operated the Cottage Daycare for the last two years as well as running children’s summer camps with Jodie Parker. She loves children’s creative process and the endless opportunities to explore and learn together.

YVONNE PREST wears a lot of hats: New mom, writer, teacher, councillor, chips and salsa fanatic.

Her favourite hat is being a Fernie-ite.

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AUG 30 - SEPT 8 IS OUR ANNIVERSARY

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gearhub.ca

250-423-5555

BEGINNINGS ISSUE SPECIAL FEATURE

The Demo Derby

by KEITH LIGGETT

N

o one is sure how it started. A bet?

A dispute over a woman? Two guys trying to prove who’s the top dog? Maybe it was a case of road rage. Instead of taking it outside, into the alley behind the bar, they took it to the county fairgrounds.

Whatever the roots, Demo Derby’s are a staple of rural Canadian life. In Fernie, the Lions Club originated and sponsored the Demo Derby for 45 years now. (Maybe more, but they can say 45 years for sure.)

The concept is simple. Put a bunch of stripped down cars in an arena.

“Gentlemen, start your engines.” And the last one still running wins. Sort of a Gladiator on Wheels approach to driving.

There are classes, so a VW Bug is not jousting with a Hummer. And there’s a Powder Puff division so the women can prove their mettle (metal?). Oh yeah, and there are trucks, too.

To enter, you don’t just drive up and pay your entry fee. The cars are stripped of all glass. Additional reinforcement built into the passenger compartment. Seat belts are required. And so on. Full rules are available on Fernie Lions Derby Facebook page. It’s not as hard as it might seem.

While the day is a celebration of mechanical chance and driving skill (avoiding the most serious of the wrecks), the beginning of the Derby was to fund the charitable works of the Lions. Over the last 45 years the Lions have raised and distributed over $500,000 directly into the Fernie community.

This support is simple, like the BBQ’s they hold for the residents of the Tom Uphill Center and the Rocky Mountain Village.

Or more complex, in providing support for athletic teams to compete around the province. Teams supported include the Ghostriders, the Fernie High School women’s volleyball team (to compete in

VINCE MO PHOTO

Over the last 45 years the Lions have raised and distributed over $500,000 directly into the Fernie community.

Provincials in Vancouver), figure skating and the list continues with a host of other programs and events.

It’s a community event. Plenty of businesses close and use the Derby as a staff party day.

It’s perhaps the biggest event of the year.

And the beginning of a new year of giving for the Lions.

So, this year, head on down to the Derby.

Bring the kids. Buy a hot dog. Buy a burger. Have a beer or two. Watch the mayhem. The crunch of steel. The crash of speeding iron. Anticipate the winners and the losers.

We’re all rednecks for one day.

The notable aspect - all the Lions funds raised are spent in the community to support community members.

And ICBC, you ain’t got no invitation to this party.

While the event’s beginnings are humble, the result created the beginning of vast opportunity for youth and community members in Fernie.

Fernie Lions Demo Derby Derby Arena/Trico Homes Land 1800 Railway Ave. Engines Rev at Noon September 1, 2019 FERNIEFIX.COM

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SEPTEMBER 19 - 22, 2019 A celebration of Fernie’s heritage, cuisine, music and art now in its 5th year!

ferniechautauqua.com

Festival Schedule Now in its fifth year, the Fernie Chautauqua & Fall Fair is a four-day celebration of music, arts, heritage, cuisine and community, held in Historic Downtown Fernie. The event is a revitalized and invigorated version of the traditional Dominion Chautauqua of the early 20th century, set against the spectacular B.C. Rocky Mountains.

THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 19 6:30 PM 7:30 PM

STORIES FROM PIONEER DAYS, Fernie Heritage Library. Free.

6:30 PM 7:30 PM

UPSTAIRS AND DOWNSTAIRS HISTORIC HOME TOUR, Fernie Museum. Advance tickets only, $20

8:00 PM 9:30 PM

CHAUTAUQUA OPENING GALA, Fernie Arts Station. Featuring live entertainment by Red Girl and Hark Raving Sirens and the culinary artistry of Fernie’s celebrity chef, Barrie Elliott. Free, with cash bar.

FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 20 12:00 PM - LUNCH AND LEARN, Introduction to Ktunaxa 1:00 PM Culture with Janice Alpine, Fernie Seniors Centre.

Hosted by Fernie Museum. Advance tickets only, $15.

1:30 PM 2:30 PM

FERNIE’S ITALIAN HERITAGE, Fernie Museum. Music and refreshment by Fernie’s Italian community. Launch of the new Fernie’s Pioneer Italian Community virtual exhibit. Free.

5:00 PM 7:00 PM

THE COMMUNITY PICNIC, City Hall. Live DJ, with hot bbq and beer garden available.

7:00 PM 10:00 PM

CHAUTAUQUA COMMUNITY DANCE, Fernie City Hall. Headlined by Craig Moritz. Beer garden available.

SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 21 9:00 AM 11:00 AM

CHAUTAUQUA PANCAKE BREAKFAST, Fernie Family Centre. Hosted by the Elk Valley Dolphins Swim Club.

11:00 AM - CULTURE ON THE LAWN, City Hall. Celebrate arts 4:00 PM and heritage with a series of engaging events designed to peek inside the lives and work of artists, artisans and heritage organizations. Immerse yourself in traditional art and crafts on the Chautauqua grounds with ‘painting en plein air’ demonstrations and art installations or join members of the Ktunaxa for insights and stories on Indigenous life. Live music and family entertainment throughout the day.

11:00 AM - DOORS OPEN. Explore seven buildings not usually 4:00 PM open to the public and Family Safety Day at the Fernie Fire Hall. Free.

11:00 AM - THE CORNER STAGE. Fernie’s vibrant busking 4:00 PM culture comes alive on the corners of 2nd Avenue and 5th and 6th Street during Chautauqua. Free.

11:00, 1:30 and 3:00 PM

HISTORIC WALKING TOURS, Fernie Museum.

Discover more about heritage restoration efforts underway in Fernie today through heritage walking tours hosted by Heritage Fernie. Free.

4:00 PM 6:00 AM

CHAUTAUQUA HAPPY HOUR, Fernie Distillery. Join the cocktail masters from Fernie Distillers for tours of their production space and sample from their tasting board ($5).

8:00 PM 12:00 AM

ART AFTER DARK. Touring five venues, guests will explore the Fernie’s vibrant art and culinary scene, with performance art by the Circus Insomniacs and live entertainment throughout the evening. Advance tickets, $70; must be 19+ to participate.

SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 22 10:00 AM - FERNIE FALL FAIR, City Hall. Includes horticultural 3:00 PM displays, blue ribbon contests, craft exhibits, art demonstrations, a small backyard livestock zoo, agricultural demonstrations and live music throughout the day. Free.

11:00 AM - THE CORNER STAGE. Fernie’s vibrant busking culture 4:00 PM comes alive on the corners of 2nd Avenue and 5th and 6th Street during Chautauqua. Free.

5:00 PM 8:30 PM

CHAUTAUQUA CULTURAL DINNER, historic Fernie Central Hotel. Celebrates the contributions of Fernie’s early Sikh community to the cultural fabric of Fernie with special speaker Dr. Michael Hawley and live entertainment. Advance tickets required, $35

Dr. Van Hooligan, Magician Culture On the Lawn

Craig Moritz Chautauqua Community Dance

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For the month of September the Fernie Cardlock will donate 4 cents per liter of fuel puchased on debit to the Fernie Lions Club.

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Call or visit our website to get a FREE quote!

1562 9th Avenue Unit A info@copper-tip.ca 250.423.6937

www.copper-tip.ca HOURS OF OPERATION: Monday – Friday 8:00am – 4:30pm

5 1 0 4 62

Fernie Lions Club

7 6 9 5 30 8 7 7 2 1356918 4382 GPI Chartered Professional Accountants in Fernie offers a full range of accounting and taxation services for the communities of Fernie, Elkford, Sparwood, throughout the Elk Valley and beyond for a wide variety of business and personal customers.

No membership or account required. photo credit: Vince Mo / Tourism Fernie

602 2nd Avenue Fernie, BC 250-423-6881 fernieaccountant.com

Business in the Valley

BUSINESS NEWS

Fernie Chautauqua and Fall Fair ferniechautauqua.com

N

ow in its fifth year, Fernie Chautauqua and Fall Fair is a four-day celebration of music, arts, heritage, cuisine and community, held in Historic Downtown Fernie. The event is a revitalised and invigorated version of the traditional Dominion Chautauqua of the early 20th century.

VINCE MO/TOURISM FERNIE PHOTO

Enjoy live music throughout the weekend, celebrate arts and heritage with a series of engaging events designed to peek inside the lives and work of artists, artisans and heritage organisations. Taste the bounty of harvest season sampling the food truck vendors, enjoying the pancake breakfast and taking in the Fall Fair.

Creativity is curated on the Art after Dark Tour Saturday evening. This four-hour extravaganza is hosted at a series of art locations, featuring unique sound and culinary creations. The Chautauqua Cultural Dinner closes the festival on Sunday evening. Don’t miss this celebration of Fernie’s heritage, cuisine, music and art, September 19 to 22.

City of Fernie 501 3rd Ave 250-423-6817

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he City of Fernie is proud to support the mining industry by organising an event that provides opportunities for competitors to test their skills against industry standards and help train their members in safe and controlled environments. The National CARY MOFFAT PHOTO Mine Rescue Competition showcases the vast knowledge, training, commitment and professionalism that mining emergency response and rescue teams dedicate themselves to.

Teams from Saskatchewan, British Columbia, North West Territories, Nunavut, Alberta and Wyoming USA will compete in both Underground and Surface competitions on September 6 and 7.

The public is invited to show its support for mine rescue emergency response teams by coming to watch. The schedule of events can be found in the Fernie Free Press and on the City of Fernie web page, fernie.ca.

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Fernie Cardlock 1592 9th Ave 250-423-7205

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ocated just off Highway 3, Fernie Cardlock offers all fuel types and pay at the pump service, 24 hours a day and accepts Visa, Mastercard, and Debit cards. No membership is required, everyone is welcome to enjoy their competitive pricing.

In May of 2015, owners Lila and Gary started offering a fundraising program for organisations in the Elk Valley.

“The groups range from Fernie Pets to Avalanche Girls/Bomb Squad to the Elk Valley Dolphins Club. We donated close to $4000 in our first year, and it has increased every year - this year we are close to $7500 with a few months left,” says Lila.

The last recipient was the Fernie Trails Alliance, and this September Fernie Cardlock is raising funds for the Lions Club. “We want to thank everyone who has participated in our program - it would not operate without you!” Visit ferniecardlock.com for more details.

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HAUL TRUCK This four-week program offers an introduction to safe and efficient operation of a haul truck in a surface mining or oil sands site. Haul truck operators are in demand in mines across Canada, including the Alberta oil sands.

Our program uses simulators for both Komatsu and Caterpillar haul trucks, which are most commonly used in large surface pit operations in Canada.

The program includes instruction in the following safety tickets: Mine Supervisor Certificate (Health, Safety and Reclamation Code for Mines in BC), Standard First Aid for Industry (two-day), WHMIS and Construction Safety Training System (CSTS).

September 3 to 27 October 28 to November 22 Instructor: Rob Doka

OFA 3 The ultimate course in first aid! Recognized in both Alberta and BC, this course prepares you to take on the responsibilities of the first aid attendant providing emergency care in your industry, and covers a variety of emergency medical techniques. The course fee includes your books, exam fee and certificate, which is valid for three years.

Friday to Wednesday | September 20 to 25 Saturday to Tuesday | September 28 to October 1 Instructor: Jen Hebert Monday to Friday | October 21 to November 1 Instructor: Tyler Carson Saturday to Tuesday | November 23 to 26 Friday to Wednesday | November 29 to December 4 Instructor: Jen Hebert

FOR MORE INFORMATION: Phone: 250-423-4691 email: fernie@cotr.bc.ca

Business in the Valley

BUSINESS NEWS

Noresca noresca.ca

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obert Greczko, P. Eng., MBA, PMP is the owner and operator of Norsca Inc., an engineering and project management firm out of Calgary and Fernie. Rob admits he enjoys watching Home Improvement shows.

“Whether it is a DIY project or you’re hiring a contractor, what gets found in ceilings and walls is always a mystery, leading to Change Orders. Change Orders can be costly and how changes get managed properly is from good planning. Remember – luck favours the prepared hence why it’s important to have experience in your corner.”

Here are his Top Five rules to keep costs down:

Mountain Life Pilates mountainlifepilates.com

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ountain Life Pilates is thrilled to announce that it is moving to a new location to accommodate its growth, sharing a space with Elk Valley Pilates at 1101-A 2nd Ave, starting September 1.

Mountain Life Pilates will still be offering private physiotherapy-based sessions (covered by insurance), but is excited to now be able to offer specialised classes and small group sessions. Owner Kate Richardson is very excited to see the Pilates community grow in Fernie, with the addition of Elk Valley Pilates; together they hope to make pilates accessible and helpful for everyone, whatever your needs and experiences may be.

1. Well written contracts and drawings.

SUBMITTED PHOTO 2. Knowing what you want before you start and sticking with it.

3. Good soil (we don’t necessarily always have that luxury!)

4. Good contractors – it’s worth the money.

5. Knowing your limitations – if you have limited experience in construction, hire a Project Manager that will look out for your best interests!

Tara Higgins Studio 762 3rd Ave

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ara Higgins is excited to announce the opening of her new studio and gallery. Located behind Barkside on the alley side of 3rd Avenue, stop by to admire the latest paintings from Tara’s easel and hot out of the kiln pieces from Fernie potter Kerri Holmes. There is pottery for everyday service as well as larger, more sculptural pieces on display alongside Tara’s landscape paintings and studies, with the occasional wildlife portrait sneaking in. Tara is also using the space to work, and encourages people to pop in and watch the process. Come the fall, workshops will be held in both pottery and painting at the space.

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Opening hours are Thursday to Saturday 11am to 5pm and Sunday noon to 4pm.

FERNIEFIX.COM

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Business in the Valley

NEW BUSINESS

Elk Valley Pilates elkvalleypilates.com

C

onquer the evil villain that is chronic stress and return to life thanks to the power of Pilates!

Sandra Robertson is certified in both classical and contemporary Pilates and has been teaching the method since 2010.

Utilising the specialised spring-loaded apparatus, which has the unique ability to support, strengthen, SUBMITTED PHOTO lengthen and challenge all at the same time, you can be sure to experience an incredibly efficient, effective and fun movement adventure that’ll transform your life.

Offering both small group apparatus and mat classes, available to book online, Elk Valley Pilates is now open at 1101-B 2nd Ave.

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ernie Chimney Sweeps is pleased to announce it will be offering its services this fall in the Elk Valley.

branchoutlearningtherapy. com

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With the magic of Fernie and its mountains, we adventure consciously in to the self, immersing in Svadhyaya (Self discovery).

Travel through daily yoga practice with Living YogAdventures, meditation, and journalling to encourage discovery of the mind, body, and breath while opening the truest, most genuine sense of self.

Fernie Chimney Sweeps ferniechimneysweeps@ gmail.com

Living YogAdventures -Yoga and Wellness Retreat

xperience the magic of the mountains, dive into adventure and uncover conscious exploration of the body and mind. The physical and internal self connect as you discover your personal inner workings through physical yoga practice, meditation and journalling.

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Embark on this weekend of wellness and adventure to explore, retreat, recharge and find balance.

To register visit livingyogadventures.ca/ retreats-workshops or call 250-999-9363.

Proceeds benefit Branch Out Learning and Behaviour Therapy. Branch Out supports families and children with developmental disabilities, autism, or challenges in learning or behaviour.

For more information visit branchoutlearningtherapy.com.

Owner Tyler Murray is a professional Chimney Sweep and attended the Chimney Sweep Institute of America.

He is dedicated to ensuring the safe and efficient operation of your wood burning system.

Fernie Chimney Sweeps will be operating from September 23 to November 8 in 2019. The season is limited, so don’t delay in booking your appointment by emailing ferniechimneysweeps@gmail.com, and get your wood stove or fireplace ready for winter.

Business in the Valley

NEW BUSINESS

Oliva Griffioen, Registered Psychologist

O

livia Griffioen is a Registered Psychologist in BC (#2429) and Alberta (#4938) who recently moved to Fernie and opened a part-time private practice.

Olivia offers psychoeducational assessments for children, adolescents, and adults.

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Joy Ride jayanddebsjoyride.home. blog

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ernie residents Jay and Deb Zammit have cycled across Canada this summer - 73 days and almost 7,000 kms of cycling on back roads and pathways. The final kilometres through Newfoundland are postponed until next year due to a bike crash injury. But this adventure wasn’t just about them – they donated a special needs bike in each province. In a bike passionate town like Fernie, it can be appreciated that these bikes give mobility and joy to people who never thought they would be able to ride a bike. Hence, Joy Ride.

There have been nine Joy Ride bike giveaways across the country, and their last donation will be here, in Fernie.

Thanks to others’ generous donations, more than four additional bikes are in the planning stages. So in fact, there will be two bikes to giveaway at Isabella Dicken Elementary School in September! They will continue to accept donations towards special needs bikes - if you would like to donate, please check out their blog site.

Psychoeducational assessments evaluate thinking and reasoning abilities, along with underlying psychological processes (e.g., executive functioning, attention, processing speed, memory, and phonological processing), academic achievement (e.g., reading, written expression, mathematics, expressive and receptive language), behaviour, and social-emotional functioning. Psychoeducational SUBMITTED PHOTO assessment provides clients and their families a thorough understanding of strengths and areas of need, along with tailored, evidence-based suggestions to support the client across settings.

Olivia’s experience working as a School Psychologist in several school districts across the country contributes to her unique expertise in mental health and learning to support the academic, social, behavioural and emotional success of all learners.

For more information, please contact oliviagriffioen@gmail.com.

Thinking of Selling?

Now’s the time!

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Expert advice. Genuine care. Proven results.

Jolanda Bjorkman

SALES REPRESENTATIVE & PROPERTY MANAGER

c: (250) 420-1102 | e: jolanda@c21fernie.ca 362B 2nd Avenue, Fernie BC. FERNIEFIX.COM

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Open 7 days a week!

Thunder Meadows

Health & Wellness

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Registered Massage Physiotherapy & Acupuncture

The need for protective eyewear goes beyond safety glasses for work. Most eye injuries happen at home or while participating in sports or hobbies.

We can help you choose the right pair for you and your family.

5 Massage Therapists Online Booking Evening & Weekend Appointments

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ET Hair Studio Our Strength is Your Beauty

20% off all AG products for the month of September.

462 2nd Ave., Downtown Fernie 250-423-4813

FERNIE 250-423-4467 • BLAIRMORE 403-562-7144 • ELKFORD 250-865-2022

Business in the Valley

What New Investors Need to Know

providing resources for retirement or helping pay for your children’s college education.

Knowing your own investment personality Everyone has different investment personalities — some people can accept more risk in the hopes of greater rewards, while others are not comfortable with risk at all. It’s essential that you know your investment personality when you begin investing, and throughout your years as an investor.

by ROMAN RYBAR, CFP

I

f you’re starting out as an investor, you might be feeling overwhelmed. After all, it seems like there’s just so much to know.

How can you get enough of a handle on basic investment concepts so that you’re comfortable in making well-informed choices?

Actually, you can get a good grip on the investment process by becoming familiar with a few basic concepts, such as these: Stocks versus Bonds When you buy stocks, or stock-based investments, you are buying ownership shares in companies. Generally speaking, it’s a good idea to buy shares of quality companies and to hold these shares for the long term. This strategy may help you eventually overcome short-term price declines, which may affect all stocks. Keep in mind, though, that when buying stocks, there are no guarantees you won’t lose some or all of your investment.

By contrast, when you purchase bonds, you aren’t becoming an “owner” — rather, you are lending money to a company or a governmental unit. Barring default, you can expect to receive regular interest payments for as long as you own your bond, and when it matures, you can expect to get your principal back. However, bond prices do rise and fall, typically moving in the opposite direction of interest rates.

So if you wanted to sell a bond before it matures, and interest rates have recently risen, you may have to offer your bond at a price lower than its face value.

For the most part, stocks are purchased for their growth potential (although many stocks do offer income, in the form of dividends), while bonds are

IT’S IN THE NUMBERS

STOCK PHOTO

It’s essential that you know your investment personality when you begin investing, and throughout your years as an investor. bought for the income stream provided by interest payments. Ideally, though, it is important to build a diversified portfolio containing stocks, bonds, Guaranteed Income Certificates (GICs), government securities and other investments designed to meet your goals and risk tolerances.

Diversification is a strategy designed to help reduce the effects of market volatility on your portfolio; keep in mind, however, that diversification, by itself, can’t guarantee a profit or protect against loss.

Risk versus Reward All investments carry some type of risk: Stocks and bonds can decline in value, while investments such as GICs can lose purchasing power over time. One important thing to keep in mind is that, generally, the greater the potential reward, the higher the risk.

Setting goals As an investor, you need to set goals for your investment portfolio, such as

Investing is a long-term process It generally takes decades of patience, perseverance and good decisions for investors to accumulate the substantial financial resources they’ll need for their long-term goals.

G OUR COMMU VIN NI R TY SE

25 YE A R S 1993 - 2018

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Arts and Entertainment

FEATURE ARTIST

Michael Penny My first attempt at chainsaw carving did not turn out like I thought it would. It was absolutely terrible. It was a human face and it was really bad. I did however know where my mistakes were. So I set out to carve another one right away and I made almost all the same mistakes.

I didn’t get discouraged though and I told myself that I’ll keep at it until I get it. All this happened at Pierre Turgeon’s log house on my hometown ski hill in Rawdon, Quebec. A few weeks later Pierre was going into deep Ontario for a big international chainsaw carving symposium and I managed to talk myself into going as a carver. There were about 35 pro carvers there from all around the world. And me. It was

thrilling and terrifying and I loved it.

They placed me right beside Bob King from Washington State. BOB KING! Now, it’s difficult to say who is the best chainsaw carver in the world but Bob’s name would have to be high up on that list. I watched with amazement at what this man created over four and a half days. Absolutely spectacular! A composition with deer, wolves, bears and a lynx. All in one log! I was blown away.

During that event I managed to carve a contemporary piece with two human heads incorporated. I didn’t make those same mistakes and my sculpture came out quite nicely. A small municipality

in Ontario bought it and installed it in a public garden. I was pretty stoked. I was all in after that. When I came home from that event I was never very far from my chainsaw.

These days, chainsaw carving competitions are part of what I do. I enjoy them more and more for many reasons. I am consistently impressed with the scope and ambition of the art that is created in such a short period of time. With only three and a half days we transform a huge log into intricate, detailed sculpture. Another aspect of these events that is priceless is the camaraderie among the carvers. I have made many great friends from around the world through chainsaw carving

competitions. Though we compete against each other, we are often each other’s greatest support, lend a helping hand or offering some of our favourite tools if it can help out a fellow carver. When we go to these events we forfeit the sculpture to the event’s organisers. Often these sculptures are installed throughout the towns and cities that host them.

It’s happened to me more than once that someone from another town will stop in at my studio and tell me how much they like the carving as they explain to me where they see it every day.

I began carving professionally when we moved to Fernie four years ago. I have to admit that I feel a surge of pride when I am being addressed at these events as Michael Penny from Fernie, BC. I have even managed to pick up a nickname on the circuit, “Fernie Mike” or sometimes just “Fernie.” Come to think about it, it’s the best nickname I have ever had.

For more information on Michael and his work, visit Fernie Log Carver on Facebook.

FERNIEFIX.COM

19

Arts and Entertainment

PRESERVING THE PAST: BUILDINGS FOR THE FUTURE

Beginning Again

the bricks will be restoration of spalled surfaces and replacing the mortar with a traditional product.

Previous repair work was carried out with a high cement content mortar and this has contributed to the cracking and water damage that can be seen on the exterior.

Additional maintenance will be required to the damaged panes on the diamond-pattern windows and to the exterior woodwork, which shows signs of weather damage.

by ELANA ZYSBLAT AND REBECCA HALL

A

s introduced in the June edition, the Built Heritage Grants, funded by Columbia Basin Trust and administered

by Heritage BC, are helping to restore some of Fernie’s most significant and historic buildings. One of these is Knox United Church.

As one of Fernie’s six historic church buildings and one of only three which still operate as places of worship, Knox United Church is an important piece of Fernie’s heritage. The current church was built between 1909 and 1910 immediately after Fernie’s Great Fire of August 1908.

Have you recently demolished a structure made from Fernie brick, or have some stacked in your garden or yard? As the unique bricks are no longer available for purchase, the congregation is asking for the community’s help in sourcing any Fernie bricks that could be donated to the restoration effort.

Built from locally made cream-coloured brick from the Fernie Brick Company in West Fernie, the church is a replica of the original wooden church that stood on this site. The only significant difference between the two structures is that the entrance door was moved from the bell tower to the gable end of the building, and the use of the fire-proof building materials.

Following a thorough Heritage Conservation Plan conducted by Ance Building Services in October 2018, several key areas of the church were identified as requiring attention. Possibly the most significant, and certainly the most visible, will be the restoration of the top of the bell tower. The congregation have chosen to restore the tower to its 1930’s appearance, when it featured a corbelled cornice, but no longer had the original crenellations. The cornice was removed prior to 1979 along with the front façade art glass windows, which were relocated to the rear wall of the building. The new cornice will be more sympathetic to the appearance of the building and provide additional protection for the brickwork, which is being damaged by poor drainage

Thankfully, the interior is in generally good repair. Renovations may include adjustments to the tri-level altar, which is impractical for many of the current performances, the church having more recently become a popular venue for choral events and dramatic theatre. Further renovations may include the heating system and accessibility to create a fully functional space that continues to meet the needs of the changing community.

SUBMITTED PHOTOS

and the inappropriate finish of the current tower.

While some displacement can be seen on the front façade of the building, it appears that this is no longer an issue following the installation of structural tie rods in 1974.

The majority of the work required on

Renovations at Knox United will no doubt be carefully observed by the congregation of Christ Church Anglican on 4th Avenue.

While the CBT funding does not currently include restoration work for this location, the Church was able to secure funding to draft a Statement of Significance and Conservation Plan which clearly identifies the current state of the building and work that can be conducted in the future.

Learn more about these – and other – ongoing restoration projects and needs during ‘Open Doors’ on Saturday, September 21 during Fernie Chautauqua.

Arts and Entertainment

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Back to School Portraits

by MICHELLE SENIOR

T

he sunny weather might linger well into September but summer fun changes with the start of the school calendar. It is a perfect time to hit the pause button and find time to complete an art project. This self portrait project can capture your child’s wild summer days or in contrast, her first day of school. This simple work of art can have a huge impact on the viewer because of it’s important subject- your child!

Materials for the self portrait: Print a black and white headshot of your child. I ordered the largest size available online at photos.ca and picked it up at our local, Independent grocers a week later.

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Self adhesive laminating sheets or clear sheet protector Paint (tempora or similar) Paint brushes or foam rollers Liquid chalk markers Bingo dabbers

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How to: The child will get to paint directly on the photograph. I encourage the child to start painting the background first before applying any paint to their image. It is most successful if the child uses smaller paint brushes or takes her/his time when adding any paint details to their image.

Once the paint dries on the photograph you can place it in the clear, plastic sleeve.

Your child can take the colourful liquid chalk markers and add whatever detail they choose directly on top of the plastic sleeve to the portrait. If they are not happy with the markers they will simply wipe off the clear sleeve. Do they want to give themselves a crown or trace their lips in

SUBMITTED IMAGE

This self portrait project can capture your child’s wild summer days or in contrast, her first day of school. rainbow colours? How do they want to portray themselves? How do they see themselves?

Talking about self portraits with your child: It is always fun to try out a medium, such as painting on an actual photograph but a discussion about what a self portrait is and what it can mean to a child adds a wonderful depth to the project.

“In her self portrait, a child offers herself as both subject and artist. When we look at her self portrait we see a child as she sees herself. The story of self portrait work is a tender story to tell.”~ Journeying into Inquiry, Carolina Saenz-Molina FERNIEFIX.COM

21

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Arts and Entertainment

Beginning to End

more about what this change means for me and my art. In the meantime I’m experimenting artistically, and structurally, with new ways of making sure both those things are healthy.

by MICHAEL HEPHER

A

couple of years ago I got an email from a regional business award site.

They had identified Clawhammer Press as part of the manufacturing sector, and would I be interested in being considered for an award? Simply fill out the quick questionnaire. At a glance the questions were mostly structural: What’s your website, how many employees, how long in business, etc.

There was just one question that asked a pointed question about current business health: what percentage has your business grown over the past five years? Is that really the only info they need to make an award?

Just because it is easy to quantify does not make growth an accurate metric for the well-being of a business. So many of us have moved to Fernie for lifestyle reasons, shouldn’t that be part of the equation?

How come happiness and community engagement are not counted in the metrics?

If you want to be an artist you have to be a business person, too. When I’m reasonably efficient at my communication, invoicing, planning, and bookkeeping, I might get three or four hours of actual art practice in a given day. Over the past 16 years my business has gone from one employee (me) to seven and back to one. I’ve wandered through fields of web design, print design, project management, branding, illustration, and finally settled here in the analog print world with the more recent parallel addition of oil painting. In the past two years I have downsized so much that many people don’t even know that Clawhammer Press is still a going concern (it is), and yet those same years have also been the most successful years of my career.

In art, as in business, we can fall into the trap of growth. Sell more paintings, make more prints, get more commissions, find more galleries. We run around trying to do more rather than do better. In business, as

ARTBEAT

Through these years of winding the cords of business and art together, I’ve learned to recognise these cycles as both endings and beginnings. A fresh canvas means that a painting was just completed. A new client means a project is finished and I’ve got some room on my dance card. A rejected submission means I have time to pursue an idea that otherwise would have sat dormant—time to grow better, not just bigger.

MIKE HEPHER PHOTO

We need to get better at understanding the value of what makes our lives and work truly worthwhile and deliberately move in that direction regardless of business metrics.

New York based artist Sara Genn says, “Alone, in our room, without certainty, we must rely on our compulsion to tell the story.” For me it’s there, sitting at the easel staring at a white sheet, that all the important growth happens. There’s no question in my mind that I’m going to continue to make art. The ebb and flow of scale is simply my chance to evaluate what kind of art I’m going to make—what story am I going to tell?

in art, we need plateaus and crises to push us to new ways of thinking.

Unchecked growth, in the business awards sense of the word, is simply not sustainable locally or globally. We need to get better at understanding the value of what makes our lives and work truly worthwhile and deliberately move in that direction regardless of business metrics. Finding the right size for your business means that you and your employees will be happier and more productive. Isn’t that the true success we’re looking for?

This past year has been a challenge for me to tear down, clear out, rethink, and reset.

Clawhammer Press is changing in ways I don’t fully understand. What I’m learning right now is that being in a state of flux is actually a very abundant place to be. The end of a narrative is rich and fertile soil for a garden of new ideas that grow into brand new narratives. I’ve been resisting the temptation to rush into something new and lose that agility until I know

For the record, my business growth percentage over the last five years is huge.

I’m more fulfilled, more deliberate about connecting with people, and more excited about making art than ever. I’ve grown in unimaginable ways that I’ll never be able to explain. When I filled out the questionnaire I gleefully entered ‘minus 25%’ and clicked submit. I may never win a business award, but I think being off the radar is a good indication I’m on the right track.

FERNIEFIX.COM

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Arts and Entertainment

Rise Up

AT PEACE AND YET ON FIRE

rise UP by Sadie Rosgen

by SADIE ROSGEN

F

or the last few weeks I found have myself with a lot of solo time on my hands as I heal from injury. I am lucky that I have the time to heal at all. Injury can feel catastrophic at times and most certainly when we are forced with time to heal and reflect, the mind can wander off to all of the places. Injury can feel like defeat, loss, even grief in the form of not being able to complete simple tasks. Yet again, my good fortune yields many visits from friends, help from my growing family, wine, flowers, cake! As I meditate on what it means to begin again, I am doing just that: beginning again. I will learn to trust my body and the fortitude of my mind to rise and be stronger. I am broken but will heal. This grand existence is temporary so do it, begin again, and see what you can discover.

I am a tardigrade water bear tough as nails living on the moon survivalist vacuum moss piglet phylum landing near you finding you near me as I live in your living room resilience is key I can go centuries without lunch finding the satisfying crunch elsewhere

I’m set up to be here no nuclear fear cousins with arthropods living in odd rediscovered terms I am confident pudgy eight legs and arms to hold my deliciously squished face feasting centuries on sediment I am bent on staying no decaying I am outlasting the tribe hungry to imbibe the sweet nectar

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September 2019 MONTHLY EVENTS SATURDAY 31.8.2019 Wam Bam Dirt Jump Jam @ Fernie Bike Park Wam Bam After Party featuring the Varmoors and Moon Snakes @ The Royal, 9pm SUNDAY 1.9.2019 Specialty Hike - Forestry @ Fernie Alpine Resort, 11am Fernie Lions Club Demolition Derby @ Derby Arena, 1800 Railway Ave. 12pm Derby Day Gong Show with the Runs and Goat Sauce @ The Royal, 9pm THURSDAY 5.9.2019 - SATURDAY 7.9.2019 14th Biennial National Western Region Mine Rescue Competition @ Fernie Curling Club (Friday) and Fernie Aquatic Centre (Saturday).

Fernie.ca FRIDAY 6.9.2019 Live Music: Rick Miller @ Loaf, 6-8pm Opera Screening: Rigoletta by Verdi @ The Arts Station, 7pm The Valley Rally @ Commit Snow and Skate SATURDAY 7.9.2019 Highline 100 Road Bike Ride @ Baynes Lake, 8am.

40, 100 or 160km road ride fundraiser.

Tenth Annual Fernie Tears & Gears @ Fernie Alpine Resort, 9am. Trail run and mountain bike, kids event, BBQ and music. stagleaprunning.com/ tears-gears Drawing Club @ The Arts Station with Liza Gareau Tosh, 1-3pm The Valley Rally @ Commit Snow and Skate Tigers of Youth @ The Brickhouse, 8pm SATURDAY 7.9.2019 - SUNDAY 8.9.2019 Summer Bonus Weekend @ Fernie Alpine Resort SUNDAY 8.9.2019 Fernie Mountain Market @ Fernie Alpine Resort, 10am-2pm Indie Films Fernie @ The Vogue Theatre, 5pm MONDAY 9.9.2019 Fall Registration Fair @ Fernie Community Centre FMBC Project 9 Race @ Mount Fernie Provincial Park. bikefernie.ca FMBC Little Critters Race @ Annex Park, 6pm Wednesday 11.9.2019 Story Time for All Ages @ Rocky Mountain Village, 1pm Thursday 12.9.2019 Poker Tourney @ Fernie Legion, 6:30pm

FRIDAY 13.9.2019 Live Music: Rick and Kate @ Loaf, 6-8pm Goat Sauce Live @ The Northern FRIDAY 13.9.2019 - SUNDAY 15.9.2019 Dynamic Design Workshop @ The Arts Station, Unlock methods for creating great paintings.

SATURDAY 14.9.2019 - SUNDAY 15.9.2019 Cactus Pots with Kerri Holmes @ The Arts Station, 10am-12pm. Explore hand building and ceramic design techniques.

SATURDAY 14.9.2019 Fall Tea @ Fernie Family Centre, 11:30am - 2pm Goat Sauce Live @ The Northern SUNDAY 15.9.2019 Fernie Kids Triathlon @ The Aquatic Centre, ages 4-15.

Copper Etching Workshop with Marty Ryan @ The Arts Station, 10am - 3pm.

Monday 16.9.2019 Focused Wheel Throwing @ The Arts Station, 6pm Wednesday 18.9.2019 Focused Wheel Throwing @ The Arts Station, 6pm Business, Banter and Beers @ Giv’er Shirt Works, 5:30pm THURSDAY 19.9.2019 - SUNDAY 22.9.2019 Chautauqua Cultural Festival and Fall Fair @ Fernie. Art, music, heritage and cuisine come together in this four-day community festival.

Ferniechautauqua.com FRIDAY 20.9.2019 Club Cre8 @ The Arts Station, 9am - 4pm Fun Friday: Giant Joke Book @ Fernie Heritage Library, 1-2pm. Share your best joke, cartoon or riddle and make a page for our giant joke book!

Live Music: Blue Tansy @ The Loaf, 6-8pm SATURDAY 21.9.2019 Drawing Club @ The Arts Station with Liza Gareau Tosh, 1-3pm 13th Annual Dirt Diggler DH Race @ Fernie Aquatic Centre, 10am Fernie Ghostriders Hockey Game @ Memorial Arena, 7:30pm The Unbranded Live @ The Northern SUNDAY 22.9.2019 Ladies Closing @ Fernie Golf Club, 1pm Fernie Fall Fair @ City Hall, 10am-3pm Knitting 101 with Smashlee Stitches @ The Arts Station, 1-3pm

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

MONDAY 23.9.2019

Focused Wheel Throwing @ The Arts Station, 6pm

TUESDAY 24.9.2019 Knitting 101 for Kids @ The Arts Station, 4pm Fernie Ghostriders Hockey @ Memorial Arena, 7:30pm WEDNESDAY 25.9.2019 Story Time for All Ages @ Trinity Lodge, 1:30pm Focused Wheel Throwing @ The Arts Station, 6pm Beginner Paint Date with Sue Hanlon @ The Arts Station, 7pm THURSDAY 26.9.2019 New Library Card Kick Off Night @ Fernie Heritage Library, 6:30-7:30pm Senior Closing @ Fernie Golf Club Gallery Opening: Burgers and Birds @ The Arts Station, 7pm. A collaborate shove featuring two unique viewpoints.

FRIDAY 27.9.2019 Tea and Talk Book Club: Carnegie’s Maid by Marie Benedict @ Fernie Heritage Library, 1:30pm FRIDAY 27.9.2019 - Sunday 29.9.2019 Gillbilly Festival @ Fernie. Workshops, Old Time Dance, Jams, Open Mic, concert with Del Barber and more. oldtypemusic.com/gillbilly Conscious Exploration Yoga and Wellness Retreat @ Living Yoga Adventures. Daily meditation, yoga, journalling, and meals by Fernie Catering Co. SATURDAY 28.9.2019 Fernie Mountain Bike Club High Roller @ Fernie Trails, bikefernie.ca The Art of Mantra and Sound Workshop @ Essential Yoga Studio, 9am - 7pm Bluegrass and Old Time Music Jam @ Fernie Heritage Library, 1:30pm Senior Centre Gala Dinner and Dance @ Senior Citizens Drop in Centre, 6pm. Celebrating 60 years!

Still Billy - Open Mic @ Fernie Distillers, 3:30pm Gill Billy Concert with Del Barber @ Fernie, 8pm.

Juno award nominated Fernie Ghostriders Hockey Game @ Memorial Arena, 7:30pm Karaoke @ The Fernie Legion High Roller After Party @ The Royal, 9pm SUNDAY 29.9.2019 Mens Closing @ Fernie Golf Club, 12pm

For events in your inbox each week, sign up for our e-Fix newsletter on Facebook or at ferniefix.com

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

September 2019 WEEKLY EVENTS

DINING, NIGHTLIFE and SPECIALS MONDAYS Gourmet Pizza Night @ Boston Pizza Pool Tourney Mondays @ The Pub Lasagna Specials @ Elk Valley Pizza Shoppe Wing Night @ The Fernie Hotel $8 Meals @ Infinitea Ladies Night @ The Northern Local Jam Night @ The Kodiak Lounge Monday Mayhem with Goffles @ The Royal Store and Tasting Room Open @ FBC Happy Hour @ Loaf, 3-5pm Pizza and Beer Specials Pizza Specials @ Fernie Pizza and Pasta Kick Off the Week Americano Specials @ Freshies Mojito Mondays @ Smokehouse, Red Tree Lodge Date Night Mondays @ Island Lake Lodge

Wing Night @ The Northern Wax On Wednesday @ 901 Spa Store and Tasting Room Open @ FBC Zak’s Jam Night @ The Royal Half Price Ice Bar @ Lizard Creek Lodge Ice Bar Happy Hour @ Loaf, 3-5pm Pizza and Beer Specials Coffee With a Friend @ Freshies, two for one coffee Wine and Beer Specials @ Sushi Wood Taro Readings from 7pm @ Infinitea Featured Burgers @ The Pub and Bistro Restaurant Wine and Beer Specials @ Sushi Wood Wine Tasting Wednesdays @ Island Lake Lodge

Fish & Chip Night @ The Pub Live Music @ Loaf, 6-9pm Happy Hour @ Loaf, 3-5pm Pizza and Beer Specials Live Music @ Infinitea Prime Rib Night @ The Old Elevator Chinese Restaurant

TUESDAYS Pasta Night @ Boston Pizza Wing Night @ The Pub Bar & Grill Pizza Night @ Elk Valley Pizza Shoppe Beer, Burger and Bingo Night @ The Northern Cheap Night @ The Vogue Theatre Karaoke @ The Royal Curry Night @ The Fernie Hotel Store and Tasting Room Open @ FBC Happy Hour @ Loaf, 3-5pm Pizza and Beer Specials Toonie Tuesdays @ Freshies Pizza Specials @ Fernie Pizza and Pasta

THURSDAYS Buy Two Appies, Third for Free @ Boston Pizza Jam Night @ The Brickhouse 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 @ FBC Pub Team Trivia @ The Pub Bar & Grill Thirsty Thursdays @ Kodiak Lounge Happy Hour @ Loaf, 3-5pm Pizza and Beer Specials Create Your Signature Mocha @ Freshies Cocktail Specials @ Infinitea Brisket and Beer Night @ Smokehouse, Red Tree Lodge Fundamentals of a Wellness Lifestyle @ Infinitea, 7pm

WEDNESDAYS 1/2 Off Wings @ Boston Pizza Wine Evenings @ The Brickhouse All Day Happy Hour @ The Fernie Hotel

FRIDAYS Rib Night @ Boston Pizza Fish & Chips @ The Pub Bar & Grill Meat Draw and Members Draw @ The Fernie Hotel

OUTDOOR & FAMILY MONDAYS 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 Public Swimming @ The Aquatic Centre Drop-In @ Elk Valley Gymnastics, 11-12pm for ages 0-4 Early Twilight @ Fernie Golf Club, 1pm Strong Start @ IDES, 9-12pm for ages 3-5 (Mon to Fri) 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 Free Guided Meditation @ Soar Studios Public Swimming @ The Aquatic Centre Teens Drop in @ Elk Valley Gymnastics,7:45-8:45pm Early Twilight @ Fernie Golf Club, 1pm Ladies Night @ Fernie Golf Club Group Run @ Stag Leap Fernie Two-Knee Race Series @ Fernie Trails, bikefernie.ca Strong Start @ IDES, 9-12pm for ages 3-5 (Mon to Fri) Word Search @ Fernie Heritage Library, ages 7-11 KinderGym @ Fernie Family Centre, 10-11am WEDNESDAYS Crib, Gentle Exercise and Tai Chi @ Seniors Centre Adult Badminton @ The Community Centre AA Meetings @ The Anglican Church Basement Competitive Boxing @ Fernie Old School Boxing Club

Summer Outdoor

Seniors Programming

SATURDAYS Kids Pool Party, BBQ and Movie Night @ Lizard Creek Lodge Meat Draw & Bar Quiz @ The Legion Coffee and Baileys Special @ The Bridge Bistro Pint Night with Overtime Beer Works @ Infinitea Rib Night @ The Pub Open Mic and Live Music @ Fernie Hotel Happy Hour @ Loaf, 3-5pm Pizza and Beer Specials Large Pizzas for the Price of a Medium @ Boston Pizza Early Bird Breakfasts @ Freshies Dragon Cod Fish Night @ The Old Elevator Chinese Restaurant Central Saturdays @ The Central with DJ Sweet Irie, 10pm SUNDAYS Kids Meal Specials @ Boston Pizza Caesars on Special @ The Brickhouse Mini Jugs and Caesars @ The Fernie Hotel Off the Grill Sundays and Caesar Specials @ The Pub Caesars Special @ The Bridge Bistro Happy Hour @ Loaf, 3-5pm Pizza and Beer Specials Dinner Buffet @ The Indian Kitchen Fernie, Stanford Inn 4-9:30pm

Early Bird Breakfasts @ Freshies

BBQ and Beats @ Infinitea, 6-9pm Rib and Wing Night @ Smokehouse, Red Tree Lodge Kids Programming

Toddlertime Ages 0-2 @ Fernie Heritage Library Indoor Walking Program @ Fernie Community Centre Open Climbing @ Evolution English Conversation Cafe @ CBAL office Celebrate Recovery @ Mountainside Church Drop-In @ Elk Valley Gymnastics, 11-12pm for ages 0-4 Public Swimming @ The Aquatic Centre Adults Drop in @ Elk Valley Gymnastics,7:30-9pm Yoga @ Lizard Creek Lodge Fernie Women on Wheels @ Bike Trails, 6:30pm.

DH Trail Work Party @ Bike Trails, 6:30pm, FMBC.ca Yoga for Mountain Bikers and Trail Runners @ Essential Yoga Studio, 6:30pm Men’s Night @ Fernie Golf Club Strong Start @ IDES, 9-12pm for ages 3-5 (Mon to Fri) Word Nerd Board Games @ Fernie Heritage Library, ages 7-11 Unpredictable Wednesdays @ Ghostrider Adventure Riders, 5:30pm KinderGym @ Fernie Family Centre, 10-11am THURSDAYS Morning Yoga, Drop in, and Canasta/Cards @ Senior’s Centre Pickleball @ Fernie Community Centre RC Club @ Fernie Community Centre Mixed Senior Recreational Boxing @ Fernie Old School Boxing Bellies to Babies @ Fernie Women’s Centre Open Roller Skating @ Max Turyk Gym Indoor Walking Program @ Fernie Community Centre, Free Guided Meditation @ Soar Studios Public Swimming @ The Aquatic Centre Kid’s Cafe @ Mountainside Community Church, 9:3011:30am. Everyone welcome!

FMBC Work Party @ Bike Trails, 6:30pm, FMBC.ca

Swim

Library Program

Other

Seniors Day @ Fernie Golf Club Strong Start @ IDES, 9-12pm for ages 3-5 (Mon to Fri) Word Puzzles @ Fernie Heritage Library, ages 7-11 FRIDAYS Cribbage @ Seniors Drop in Centre Jitney Darts @ Fernie Legion Toddlertime Ages 0-2 @ Fernie Heritage Library Public Swimming @ The Aquatic Centre Storytime Social @ Library, 11:15-12:45pm ages 0-5.

Adult Heels and Pump @ Solebeats, 8pm for 18+ Yoga for Mountain Bikers and Trail Runners @ Essential Yoga Studio, 10:15am Fernie Women on Wheels Ride @ Bike Park, 9:30am Strong Start @ IDES, 9-12pm for ages 3-5 (Mon to Fri) KinderGym @ Fernie Family Centre, 10-11am SATURDAYS Karma Meditation Class @ Essential Yoga Studio Open Climbing @ Evolution Prenatal Yoga @ Essential Yoga Public Swimming @ The Aquatic Centre Historic Walking Tours @ Fernie Museum, 11am, 1pm and 3pm SUNDAYS AA Meetings @ The Anglican Church Basement Public Swimming @ The Aquatic Centre Guided Meditation @ Soar Studios Drop-In @ Elk Valley Gymnastics, 3:45-4:45pm ages 5-12’ Yoga for Mountain Bikers and Trail Runners @ Essential Yoga Studio, 6pm Historic Walking Tours @ Fernie Museum, 11am, 1pm and 3pm

FERNIEFIX.COM

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THE RENTAL FIX

Arts and Entertainment

Good Omens

They are both excellent in their roles.

The supporting cast includes actors who normally give great performances, including Nick Offerman, John Hamm.

Francis McDormand, Michael McKeen and Miranda Richardson. Interestingly, McDormand narrates the story as the voice of God. Michael McKeen plays a Scottish witch hunter but unfortunately does a terrible Scots accent. All of these excellent actors didn’t have much to work with in this mini-series.

by ANDREW VALLANCE

G

ood Omens:The Nice and Accurate Prophecies of Agnes Nutter,Witch (1990) is a World Fantasy Award-nominated novel written as a collaboration between the English authors Terry Pratchett and Neil Gaiman. The book is a comedy about the birth of the son of Satan and the coming of the End Times. There are attempts by the angel Aziraphale and the demon Crowley to sabotage the coming of the End Times, having grown accustomed to their comfortable lives in England. There are couple of interesting subplots that enrich the story. One features a mix-up at the small country hospital where the Antichrist Adam is born, and his growing up with the wrong family and in the wrong country village. A second subplot concerns the summoning of the Four Horsemen of the Apocalypse, each a big personality in their own right.

In 2003, the novel was listed at number 68 on the BBC’s survey The Big Read.

Gaiman is perhaps best known for producing the extremely popular Sandman comic book series. He also wrote the novel American Gods upon which the hit Amazon series of the same name was based. Pratchett is most well-known for his comedic Disc World novels. He died in 2015 after suffering from Alzheimer’s disease for a number of years.

Gaiman and Pratchett had known each other since 1985. It was their own idea, not that of their publisher, to collaborate on a novel. According to Gaiman, he originally began the book as a parody of Richmal Crompton’s Williambooks, named William the Antichrist, but it gradually outgrew the original idea.

The book has become a cult classic and as such has been adapted several times into other mediums, including a radio drama starring Mark Heap and Peter Serafinowicz, and a theatrical production

I have to say that over-all I was disappointed in the mini-series. Since much of the material in the book is quite surreal, the people behind the production seemed to have had difficulty translating the imagery onto film.

One thumb up.

[Good Omens: The Nice and Accurate Prophecies of Agnes Nutter, Witch (1990)] is a comedy about the birth of the son of Satan and the coming of the End Times.

by Cult Classic Theatre in Glasgow. In November 2017, a stage musical version of the novel was produced by an Australian theatre company. There was also a film to be directed by Terry Gilliam that did not materialise.

The most recent attempt to adapt Good Omens to the screen is the Amazon Prime mini-series featuring Michael Sheen as Aziraphale, and David Tennant as Crowley.

Tennant is probably best known for his role as the doctor in fifty-nine episodes of Doctor Who, and the menacing villain Kilgrave in Marvel’s Netflix series Jessica Jones. Sheen is memorable for his roles as Tony Blair in The Queen and as Dr. William Masters in the Showtime series Masters of Sex.

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29

Community and Events

FEATURE RESIDENT

Bob Livsey

by KRISTA TURCASSO

W

hen I think about teachers in the Elk Valley, numerous people come to mind but one is omnipresent - Nature Bob. A fixture of our community, especially when it comes to the outdoors, Bob has been sharing his love and passion with our community for the past 19 years, ever since he arrived in the Elk Valley. So, just how did it all begin?

Bob was living in Ontario, where he was teaching both downhill and Nordic skiing.

“I taught for 58 years,” he tells me over coffee. “I’ve been on boards a long time.”

He had a nephew who was teaching snowboarding at Fernie Alpine Resort who called him and said, “You better come out here, they need you!”

“I enjoyed teaching skiing so much, and had a wonderful time in the ski industry,” he says. “But I never got rich,” we both laugh. They made the move across the country in 2000, Bob as a ski instructor and wife Linda as the “den” mother at the ski school. “She would make sure they had their bibs on, that the lunch program was running smoothly.” A few years in, Bob started taking the kids who were in the summer camp at the hill out into nature.

“Twice a week, I would take the day care kids out on adventures.”

Bob admits that he has been intrigued with nature since he was five years old, having grown up beside the Royal Botanical Gardens, Cootes Paradise. From there he worked with the department of Lands and Forest, and eventually started his own landscaping business which he ran for 30 years. “It worked well with ski instructing,” he says. When Bob started to run the snowshoe tours and hiking/nature adventures at FAR, a friend and fellow staff member Lu Furber said, “We should call you Nature Bob,” and it stuck. “All the kids started calling me that. Many of them are 17 or 18 now, but they still call me Nature Bob.”

EMMA POLIT PHOTO

When Bob talks about teaching kids, his eyes light up and he can’t stop smiling.

“The young ones, they have really good eyes and all of the stuff in nature that is really important is the small stuff,” he says, then he immediately starts looking for his magnifying glass. “I always carry it around, so they can see it even closer.

Kids are so responsive, even now that I’m in the Nature Centre it’s the same.

I teach by guided discovery… leading them to discover what I want them to see.” The Nature Centre was created with all of Bob’s “stuff ” he had collected over

the years. “They told me, we’re going to open up this centre in the yurt, use your stuff, and make it pretty. “It’s like at tiny museum!” Everything in there allows me to share little stories.”

His passion and knowledge goes far beyond fossils and rocks and flora. Bob is an active bird watcher, and has been documenting every bird he has seen since 1951. Using a program called e-bird, Bob shows me how he has seen 719 species and completed 1807 checklists. “The first bird I ever remember recording was a barn owl

in Ontario in 1951. I started with that one, somehow I was able to keep track of all of them in my head. Memory has served me well, it has been an interesting journey.”

In recent years, Bob has struggled with his health and can no longer run the Fernie Nature Club, which he started in 2006, or the hiking adventures at FAR. “Three days a week at the Nature Centre is enough for me right now,” he tells me. “It’s tough though to not to be able to lead the hiking.”

While Bob has accepted these changes, he plans to continue to be a steward and teacher of nature. “The Natural History of Fernie is something I have been involved with since I got here,” Bob says. “Recently, I’ve been keeping my eyes on things like the Heron nests and beaver dams and try to ensure people are aware of these sensitive areas. Natural history needs to be considered and respected.”

This month, Bob turns 80. “I can’t predict what will happen health wise, but for as long as I can, I’ll be a steward and a teacher.

I love having visitors at the Nature Centre, giving guests a wonderful experience and an appreciation for our natural history. It fills my bucket.”

4. What keeps you here?

Right now, the love of the job. I still get a great deal of satisfaction in having the kids there, playing around and getting really dirty in the “fossil box.” My passion for teaching children and adults… it is very satisfying to have more curious adults!

I can’t really honestly say I hope for growth, I want it to stay similar to what it is now. The closeness and friendliness of the people. But progress is going to happen, we know that. It is going to grow.

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

I think it probably recurs everyday because no matter where I go, I have people who I’ve taught who remember me and remember hiking or skiing with me.

Wish I could say I start like I did for years… I don’t jump out of bed in the morning anymore! I start my day, if it’s warm enough sitting out on the back porch and listening to birds. If I can do that with my dressing gown on, then that’s great.

6. What time of the year do you love most in Fernie, and why?

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

I love the summer, because of what I just said… you can communicate with not just our neighbours but everyone in town.

Every Wednesday at the Social, half the town is there.

I was called Ranger Bob at a golf course I worked at in Ontario for years!

5. Do you have a favourite Fernie memory or pastime?

7. Where do you see or hope to see Fernie in five years?

10. Quote to live by: The five precepts - be honest, don’t steal, be sexually proper (don’t cheat on your lovely wife), don’t use intoxicants (I’ve been with AA for 43 years), and be kind!

The purpose of the is to foster dialogue and

Happy birthday, Bob. Thank you for continuing to inspire, teach, protect and lead.You fill our buckets, too.

and community

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

November 2000, powder skiing, soft snow, less humidity! I skied on ice for years.

2. Who did you first meet?

When I first came to town? I guess Wendy Reed as I already knew John (Burrell)!

3. Do you remember your first general impression of Fernie?

Driving from Sparwood to Fernie Alpine Resort, my first impression was… how will I ever ski that steep son of a bitch facing me? We saw the three fingers, and we skied them all. Decline is my favourite.

BACK TO SCHOOL To help keep children safe as they return to school, visit the Public Safety Canada site at: www.getprepared.gc.ca/cnt/rsrcs/s�tps/tp201009-eng.aspx for safety �ps and reminders.

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31

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Community and Events

CITY CORNER

The Friendly Face of Bylaw

by ANGE QUALIZZA

T

he bylaw department and service at the City of Fernie comes up frequently, and by frequently, I mean every time I hit the grocery store I get a bylaw observation! People are surprised to hear that our bylaw service investigates on a complaint basis, so if you don’t call it in, we aren’t investigating.

A bylaw officer holds a very important function within the organisation which includes; managing business licensing, animal control, streets and traffic regulations, waste regulations, and unsightly premise. The goal of bylaw is to make Fernie a great place to live, assisting us to live in a safe community. When our bylaw officers are responding to a violation, they also respond to safety concerns they might come across which includes dogs at large.

Tracy Seille has really lent her natural enthusiasm for bylaw to show us all that through conversation, education and discussion bylaw can be a real positive experience for the community.

My conversation with Tracy; What is the most challenging thing about working bylaw?

I tell people all the time when describing my job, I am paid to have difficult conversations daily. We as officers have to address concerns that are usually of a sensitive nature. A neighbour’s dog pooping on their lawn, unsightly properties, dog bites, parking issues and the list goes on. Sometimes the recipient of the messaging isn’t always happy to hear what you have to say, this can be quite challenging. My approach has always been solution oriented and non-bias, let people speak, listen and give effective feedback in order to gain compliance. There is a time and a place for enforcement action,

CITY OF FERNIE PHOTO

but always try to work towards voluntary compliance.

What is the most rewarding thing about working bylaw, or an incident that you really enjoyed in your career as a bylaw officer?

Making a difference. Whether it be helping a bonified stray animal or dealing with a contentious issue in the community, you can make a great impact by finding solutions and that is truly rewarding.

What are the most common misconceptions about bylaw in the community?

People have a pre-conceived notion of what/who a Bylaw Officer is, usually the idea is that we are insensitive, power tripping, dog catching, ticket writing officers… and that simply is not the case!

If you had one thing you would want to communicate about bylaw to the community, what would it be?

Bylaw officers are here to make the community a safer place for all to enjoy.

If you see an officer out and about share some love and kindness - it brightens our day!

Local governments want to make sure members of our community feel safe in our shared spaces and that citizens can enjoy their property without feeling impacted by their neighbours. Our bylaw officer is a critical component to make that happen.

If you see a Bylaw Violation you can report it by phone or email, and your personal information will not be disclosed to the individual or business under investigation.

Here are the instructions; fernie.ca/EN/ main/residents/city-services/bylawservices-business-licences/bylaw-services. html.

In the meantime, be kind out there to one another and be sure to say hello to our bylaw officers, it absolutely will brighten their day.

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Community and Events

Begin With the End in Mind

up their mental autonomy you could invite them to talk with you by saying what you really mean. Perhaps something like, “I’ll be able to enjoy my evening if I’m not worrying about where you are. Could you tell me where you think you’ll be tonight?”

You could try, “Confirming plans for your tournament this weekend is important to me. I have ten minutes right now to talk about it with you. Does that work?”

by KERRI WALL

A

wise way to approach parenting is to begin with the end in mind. What kind of human would you like to guide into existence? How do you want your son or daughter to be in the world as an adult?

How closely connected would you like to feel?

It’s difficult to deliberate on these deep questions when a person is sleep-deprived and surrounded by diapers.Yet the opportunity to explore the future we want to create for our families won’t magically show up; we need to carve out the time and allow our imaginations some space to bubble. Let’s begin!

If you want a garden you have to plant seeds People have been raising kids for as long as there have been people. For almost our entire time on earth the focus for families has been survival – procreating to perpetuate the species and produce group members to hunt and gather. This non-strategic, biologically driven method worked for an indescribably long time.

Our brains evolved over hundreds of thousands of years where lifespans were short and you could have ten generations within 150 years. Due to these circumstances it made sense for women to raise their children the same way their mothers and grandmothers raised theirs.

And the teenage phase wasn’t a thing!

Questioning one’s parenting never made sense for centuries. But it no longer makes sense NOT to question these things. The pace of change is too rapid, and the threats to humanity that exist now weren’t here even in our own childhoods.

PLANNING AHEAD

Actions speak louder Many of us begin our parenting journey with infants who don’t understand our words. Communication is almost entirely physical at that stage, and responding to their needs immediately with a steady and gentle touch tells our babies they can depend on us.

V. CROOME PHOTO

What kind of human would you like to guide into existence? How do you want your son or daughter to be in the world as an adult?

Say what you mean How many times have you asked your teenager to listen to you? This is common shorthand that parents use when they want their child to pay attention. But is that what you actually desire? Try being impeccable with your word. This requires real clarity about both the outcome you are hoping to achieve and your technique for communicating that.

Saying, “I want you to pay attention because I’m trying to give you information about X,Y,Z that you will need to know after school,” is a message with more respect and integrity than, “You’re not listening!”

Would you like to know where your son is going? Are you attempting to talk with your daughter right now about the weekend? Instead of demanding they give

It’s an exciting development when we can use language to communicate with our young ones as they grow, but our actions still provide the bulk of our message. Do we actively play on the floor with them?

This says their world is valuable and interesting and worth being a part of. Do we look them in the eyes with relaxed patience as they explain a convoluted story? This tells them we deeply care about their experience and perceptions.

Once your kids become teenagers they can read you like a book by the way you walk and the tone of your voice; our actions give us away all the time. Another superpower that teens have is recognising justice and integrity – or perhaps a lack thereof. If you fib to your daughter that you didn’t drink until you were 19, she will likely smell your deception. And if you attempt to give different curfews to your sons – watch out!

The fairness judge will appear to set you straight.

Human intelligence and ingenuity have always been incredible. Now that we have more refined abilities to think critically and plan ahead, it makes sense to apply that knowledge to our most beloved relationships.

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35

Community and Events

FAMILY STOKE

The End

by SHELBY CAIN

F

or eight years, I’ve written a column about my experiences with parenting.

It started with weekly stories in the local paper, followed by over four years of monthly anecdotes about hard-learned lessons I recorded right here, in the Fernie Fix. The therapeutic benefits of writing through my mothering challenges have been so abundant I think I might actually come out of this small-child phase relatively sane. (*Sanity is yet to be determined.) Recently, life has steered me down some new and very exciting roads. I feel I have no choice but to pinch myself, be grateful, and start walking. Besides, my girls are older now and don’t shout out things like, “Mom, I pooped in my pants so I left them on the driveway!” as they run by me. Pant-less. Now they’re maturing and sensitive and they don’t want me to print their thoughts in a magazine their friend’s mom might read. Fair enough. In the words of legendary writer and hardcore cowboy Louis L’Amour: “There will come a time when you believe everything is finished. That will be the beginning.”

What a ride. It’s been a great privilege to be granted this platform – spitting out my concerns and light bulb moments in hopes you might read them and say – me too! I craved your camaraderie in times when I wondered if I was doing this parenting thing right.Your comments, support, and high-fives on the street have meant everything to me. We’re not alone in this.

I went back into the archives to see if I could summarise what I’ve been trying to tell you. The pearls of parenting wisdom I’ve attempted to leave you with. I came out of the mechanical room three hours later with a tear-stained face and a deep appreciation for the motherhood. Ladies, you rock. Because being a mother is the most humbling, exciting, shit-wiping, self-doubting, all encompassing trip you’ll ever take. I laughed, and then ugly-bawled reading about the time Two devoured a

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jar of cream, or decided to try on all her clothes at once, then sneezed and peed right through them. When Four packed a glass of water in her suitcase. The moves.

The falls. But most of all, the love. It oozes from the paper. The emotions of those moments are so vivid in my heart that I clearly hear their voices and shrieks of laughter. It raises the hair on my arms. I see my desperate need for reassurance as I asked you – is this normal? Is it normal that she didn’t stop at just one bite of the chalky cream? Meeting the status quo seemed so important at the time. Now, a little older and a lot wiser, I encourage them to be themselves, whatever quirky incarnation that may be on any given day.

Don’t hold back, and don’t worry what others may think. The people that matter will find you extraordinary. Just be kind, be a good friend, and surround yourself with

the people who lift you higher.

I compiled this list five years ago. It still rings so true to me, I had to share it one more time.

Lessons My Children Have Taught Me 1. When your kid tells you anything with urgency, act immediately, or it’s on you.

Literally.

2. You need breaks. The minute you get one, you’ll miss your kids. Try to remember this when there’s no break in sight.

3. You are the most important person in your child’s life. They imitate and quote you incessantly when you’re not around.

Act accordingly.

4. Get excited about small things. It’s fun.

5. Never sacrifice who you are to fit in. Be proud of your differences, and shine on.

6. Worrying is a huge waste of time. If you can do something about it, do it. If you can’t, move on.

7. We all make mistakes. Sometimes they’re big. Apologise. Do better. Forgive yourself.

8. Play. Put down whatever you’re doing at least once a day and play with your kids. Be a sea turtle. Ride a skateboard.

We will never get this time back.

9. Laugh. Often and hard. With your kids. With your partner. At yourself.

When you drop the bag of rice. When your kids ask why you have all those lines on your forehead. Laugh. It’s the key to a happy life.

See you soon, my friends.

The beginning.

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Recreation and Outdoor Life

FERNIE MOUNTAIN MAMMAS

Now, Let’s Begin!

by YVONNE PREST

B

irth is the ultimate beginning. Each new parent patiently waits nine months to meet their little one and begin the big adventure. With this beginning comes one of the purest forms of joy but also restless nights and extreme fatigue. I co-created the Fernie Mountain Mamas instagram to combat how tired I was as a new mom to inspire myself, as well as others, to push through. To begin again, each day, and really go after it! Whatever “it” is that makes you feel grateful to be alive and eager to jump out of bed.

They say September is a time for new beginnings, but I would challenge that each moment is an opportunity to be reborn and to follow your curiosity into the unknown.

I encourage everyone this month to put each plan into motion as soon as the idea sparks. Habitually, I like to start new things on Mondays. There’s something about the beginning of the week, the fresh start after a busy weekend with your first coffee of the day. But then something happens and my sails lose their wind. A Monday happens, I suppose. Statistically Mondays score as the lowest day of productivity in the workplace.

Upon honest reflection, I do not actually like to begin new ventures on Mondays but instead procrastinate over the weekend that I will begin healthy eating or roasting my own coffee beans or going for a run on Monday in order to put it off. And now, as a mother, I rarely know what day it is and find it difficult to begin new tasks amidst the demands of parenthood. Enter: Fernie Mountain Mamas. A collective group and ideal to inspire new beginnings amongst new parents. To celebrate that the time to start something new and to get outside is only ever NOW. Not tomorrow, not Monday, but now.

Becoming a Mountain Mama has introduced me to so many new incredible women and families in Fernie. Individuals that motivate me to keep my fernie stoke

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They say September is a time for new beginnings, but I would challenge that each moment is an opportunity to be reborn and to follow your curiosity into the unknown. alive. To take my son, Lennox, outside and show him why we love Fernie and why we choose the mountains as our home. In Fernie, connecting is what we do best as a community. We are also lucky to have such an extensive network of programs that offer guidance and support in pursuit of our new beginnings, whether it be as new parents or new to town.

Human motivation works best when paired with accountability. Finding your

tribe is central to fuelling your ambition and overcoming new challenges. As a new mom, spending time with other parents has been my saviour. We cheer one another on in the middle of the trail when we need to suddenly stop and deal with a stage three blowout! If you’re ever feeling like a new beginning is too hard or that you’ll get to it next Monday, phone a friend. Phone a fellow Mountain Mama and explore the outdoors together, strollers in tow. The time is now. So now, let’s begin!

Are you also a Fernie Mountain Mama?

Please feel free to share your outdoor adventures, family stories and photos by writing to ferniemountainmamas@gmail. com, or hashtag #ferniemountainmamas to encourage more parents to take their little ones outdoors and share in all the fun that Fernie has to offer.

Happy beginnings!

FERNIEFIX.COM

39

Recreation and Outdoor Life

NEVER HAVE I EVER

Great Greens

by JESSE BELL

T

he streets are incredibly quiet at 5am I know this because for the summer I’m up before the sun rises. It’s early, but I don’t resent it because holy moly do I ever love my job.

I’m a part of the maintenance crew at the Fernie Golf Club.

I was in a funk. An I’m-almost-32-anddon’t-know-what-I’m-doing-with-mylife kind of funk. Lacking fulfillment and feeling misdirected, I decided to quit my job. I applied to school, and sought out something fun for the season. A mental health break, if you will, before my first semester.

That’s when my friend Shannon suggested I work in the maintenance department at the golf course. “Ray and Jay are the best bosses,” she told me. “That was the best job I ever had.”

Ray and Jason (Jay) Bryant—a father-son duo long an integral part of Fernie Golf Club. Ray and his wife Kim drove through Fernie in 1981, during their honeymoon.

They never left. Never moved back to Ontario. Never thought twice.

They raised their family here, and for nearly 35 years since Ray’s been the superintendent of the golf course. He jokes he’s a short-grass farmer, but he really is. A man who knows grass, and who’s happy to.

He started bringing Jason onto the course when he was just seven—23 years later, Jason’s the assistant superintendent.

Jason hires me, and I quickly learn that being a part of the maintenance crew is more than just about mowing grass.

I see a fox with black feet and a whitetipped tail on my first day. On the third, two speckled newborn fawns. I rake sand traps, dodge golf balls, pull thistles from gardens, and learn to hand-mow

JESSE BELL PHOTO

I was in a funk. An I’malmost-32-and-don’t-knowwhat-I’m-doing-with-mylife kind of funk. the greens. One wet morning I save a dragonfly from drowning in the wet grass, and he hitches a ride in my cart until the sun dries his paper-thin wings. I hate to admit it, but I’m a little like Tony, who’s worked here for 19 years. “I always talk to the animals,” Tony says.

And just once or twice a week, for fun, I pull my cart into a secret spot and have myself a little dance—the best job ever.

But it’s being a part of the maintenance crew that truly takes the cake. The lunch room is never dull, filled with witty banter and playful heckling. There’s Brad, the rough mower man who collects toonies for the weekly lottery. Rachel, who’s often mistaken for the ‘cart girl’ because of her long blonde hair, but is actually the fastest

hand-mower on the greens. Rob, who grew up in Fernie and has worked with Ray since before Jason was born.

Rob, who’s never floated the Elk River— until today.

We finish work a little early mid-August, and gather our floaties at the maintenance shop before making our way to the river.

The plan’s to float the river to Ray’s house in West Fernie, then play games and eat spaghetti.

We gather in a circle on the sand, drinks in hand. “Thunderstruck” by ACDC booms from Kevin’s portable speaker, and every time the word thunder appears in the song one person starts chugging their drink until the next thunder clamours. After the five-minute song is over, we literally fall into our tubes and begin the float.

The sun’s warm, the water frigid, and I’m yelling because I’m having the best time ever. Drunk and happy, with coworkers who feel more like friends, we float

casually like the grass-mowing posse that we are until we reach Ray’s backyard.

We play badminton and beersbee. Ray sits on a bench outside the kitchen door in the afternoon light and talks to Jason when, despite my gin-infused haze, I realise they’re the same in so many ways. Working outside on the golf course is already such a wonderful place to be, but to work with your dad in just such a place must be the most wonderful thing there is.

Soon we gather along an extra-long table to eat dinner. I think about the best way to end a summer before going back to school at the ripe old age of 32. It’s here in Ray and Kim’s backyard, in the company of people who appreciate a straight-cut line on the green.

Being a part of the golf course maintenance crew is like going to the Olive Garden— when you’re here, you’re family. Except Ray’s spaghetti and meatballs is better than anything you’ll ever find at the Olive Garden.

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41

Recreation and Outdoor Life

HITTING THE TRAILS

TransRockies

by JULIE KELLY, FTA

S

eptember is a great time to reflect on the summer and maybe think about getting back to something whether it’s a goal or activity.

The Fernie Trails Alliance (FTA) and the community of Fernie were happy to welcome back the TransRockies Classic this summer. From its inception, Fernie has been a part of this event hosting either the start or finish. In 2013 the race was rebranded to the Singletrack 6 moving around British Columbia to showcase trails in a variety of communities.

With demand for the return of the original point-to-point style race, organisers resurrected the TransRockies Classic and challenged riders to a long and strenuous ride from Panorama to Fernie over seven days. As hosts of the final stage, Fernie treated riders to the classic Porky Blue trail, Contra and FloWrkr. TransRockies paid for the helicopter time to brush and clear Porky Blue to reopen it and ensure participants had a great ride. Thank you to all the volunteers who helped clear the trail and support this event in general.

V. CROOME PHOTO

challenging yourself at one of the many local trail events that line the calendar in September - Fernie Tears & Gears, the Project 9 Race, Dirt Diggler and the High

Roller Poker Ride. What are you waiting for? Now is always the best time to begin working towards your goals.

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I touched base with Aaron McConnell, President of TransRockies and here is what he had to say about this year’s event and next year.

“I’d like to thank Pat Gilmar and Rick Wiess for their help in putting together an epic final stage into Fernie this year that offered a true adventure and some of Fernie’s finest trails as well. We’re looking forward to being back with Singletrack 6 in 2020 for two awesome stages - we’ll be starting the route planning process in September.”

We look forward to having the SingleTrack 6 back next summer to showcase our fantastic trail network and enhance tourism in Fernie. Maybe your goal will be to take part next year! A great way to start is by

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Recreation and Outdoor Life

BENEATH THE MOUNTAINS WE GROW

Restart

giving up, keep running! All it takes to start again is to run through that ribbon! Given that every ending has a start, when you finally step over that line and realise that you have not only just finished, you’ve just inaugurated a new way of doing something!

by AMY ATTALLA

“

Once upon a time” is a common phrase used to start a story.

“And they lived happily ever after,” is just as common when bringing the story to its end. Although both sentences may seem different, perhaps they are closer than we could have ever imagined.

In most fairy tales we watch as the damsel in distress sings about longing for her happily ever after. Her future is a new beginning. So perhaps the shoe fitting was not the ending to a life full of pain and sorrow, but the beginning of a life filled with happiness and hope?

Although beginnings can appear frightening (because change is sometimes challenging), a new start is a handed time

TRACY DEMMINGS PHOTO

to grow. It’s okay to be scared to restart!

But when you’re too scared to start, that is when it’s not okay.

For instance, imagine you are running a race and all that’s needed to declare you’ve finished is for you to run through a ribbon, right through the finish line. Opportunities are similar to running races. When your shoe is untied; tie it. When you feel like

Now, this could be a beginning for some but also might seem frustrating and not always living by the rule book. One special woman in my life has authored a new rule book: my mom. She is the bravest, strongest person I know… partially because she lacks the fear of change.

There is no time to dwell on the past if you keep moving forward. The beginning is always lurking in the shadows of time, and when it’s all over and the end wraps its tail around the body of experience, a new beginning is exhumed from the shadows and into the light.

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Health and Wellmess

ELEMENTS OF MOVEMENT

More Core

by MADDY ALARIC

W

hen you hear the words core strength, what’s the first thing that comes to mind? For many of us, it’s a well defined six pack. While this outer layer is involved, there is much more to it. Our abdominal muscles on the front and sides, the erector muscles of the back, our lats and psoas and even our glutes are what make up our bodies ‘core.’ Simply put, it is this group of muscles that stabilise and control the pelvis and spine.

ROLL UP

BIRD DOG

These muscles must work together to create stability for the spine. Without this stability everyday tasks such as getting out of bed, picking your child up and riding a bike would be impossible. The simple action of walking requires core stability to prevent you from falling to the side with each step.

In a quest for a stronger core there is a common misconception that a rippling six pack is built on endless sit-ups and crunches. I think it’s important to express that abdominal definition can be achieved through diet alone if the body fat is low enough. A rippling six pack however is not the marker of a strong core just as sit-ups and crunches aren’t required to build it. I prefer to train the core with a variety of other movements. “The McGill Big Three” made popular by Canadian core and back expert Dr. Stu McGill are movements that can be done anywhere with no equipment.

Let’s look at three body weight movements you can do at home.

Roll up • Lie flat with one knee bent and the other straight.

• Place hands under low back (this keeps spine in a neutral slightly arched position for next step).

• Pick head off ground a few inches and hold for 5-10s.

• Head comes back down. Rest and switch sides when ready.

MODIFIED PLANK

PLANK SUBMITTED PHOTOS

A rippling six pack however is not the marker of a strong core just as sit-ups and crunches aren’t required to build it.

The goal is to perform a curl up without any movement in the low back. Lifting the head/chest too high will cause low back to round and pressure into the spine.

Side plank • Lie on side with legs bent and upper body supported from elbow.

• Opposite hand comes to shoulder or hip.

• Lift hips so that only knee and arm support your body weight.

• Hold 5-10 seconds and repeat on opposite side. * Option to straighten legs bringing one foot in front of other.

* If unable to accomplish modified plank, try a side lying leg lift.

• Lay on side stacking legs.

• Engage core and lift both legs.

• Hold 5-10 seconds. Lower and repeat opposite side.

Bird dog • Come to hands and knees. Keep a neutral spine (very slight arch).

• Extend one leg backwards and opposite arm until fully straightened making sure there is no movement through low back.

• Bring arm and leg back to starting position, repeat opposite side. * Kick heel of foot straight back. Make a fist and engage arm muscles as arm holds extended position.

Try 3 sets of 5 reps per side of each.

Hold each movement for 5-10s.

Rest 30s between movements.

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45

Health and Lifestyle

FUNDAMENTALS

Elk Burgers with Huckleberry Margaritas

by LACEY WILSON, Recipes by BARRIE ELLIOTT

S

eptember marks the creeping of crisp mornings and blissfully warm afternoons, the turning of trees and fragrant smell of decaying leaves are a few of my favourite characteristics of autumn. These elements are nostalgic to me. As a young person growing up, those crisp mornings also meant the start of a new school year.

The unwrapping of new pencils and binders was one-part excitement and one-part anxiety. I’ve since traded in the unwrapping of pencils and binders for the brewing of coffee for thermoses, the packing of lunches and ammunition to name a few things in a much more robust pack sack. The ratio of excitement when September first arrives is one- and threequarter parts excitement to one quarter part anxiety, just enough to keep me on my toes.

My love for hunting was spawned from my love for cooking. I felt it was important to become part of the whole process. I wanted to be hands-on in the truest sense, of the field to table experience. The result was that I fell completely in love with it.

In my previous years, just being out in the bush and being quiet, observing the natural world became my favourite activity. Throw in hot coffee, lunches and snacks with the often hilarious, conflicting stories by my two silver haired hunting partners about their youth, and this is a recipe for a great day. Much like cooking, hunting offers a lifetime of learning and opportunities of shared experiences. Feeding friends and family with your harvest from your garden and meat from a successful hunt is incredibly rewarding. Dinner tables are filled with stories of hunting adventures both present and past that are as rich as the

MATT KUHN PHOTOS

My love for hunting was spawned from my love for cooking...I wanted to be hands-on in the truest sense, of the field to table experience. morel mushroom sauce I like to prepare for my Elk and Venison roasts.

The crisp morning walks to school are now replaced with early morning stalks through the dewy bush. My new classroom is filled with trees, scat and animal tracks, which if I’m lucky will render the toasting of glasses and many dinners with family and friends for the next three seasons until those crisp fall mornings return. It’s September first and for me, school’s in.

Elk Burgers 2lbs of Ground Elk 2tsp Worstershire 1tsp of salt

.5 tsp ground pepper 1tsp BBQ Sauce 1 tsp chopped rosemary Combine all ingredients and form into 150 gram patties, we kept this recipe very minimal to be able to focus on the flavour of the elk itself. Being that elk meat is very lean the cooking time is quite a bit quicker, BBQ each patty 2 to 3 minutes each side depending on thickness. Dress with your favourite accoutrements on top of a brioche bun.

Zucchini Pickles 1 teaspoon kosher salt 1 medium zucchini diced or in ribbons (about 1 pound) 2 cups apple cider vinegar 1 cup granulated sugar 1½ tsp ground mustard 1½ tsp mustard seed ¾ tsp turmeric ½ tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional) Combine the vinegar, sugar, mustard seed, turmeric and red pepper flakes in a small

EST D 1998

Huckleberry Margarita Per margarita, multiply as necessary 1.5 ounce 100% agave silver/Blanco tequila .5 ounce Triple Sec 1 ounce fresh lime juice .5 ounce simple syrup ½ cup frozen huckleberries ½ cup ice cubes 2 teaspoons kosher with ½ teaspoon chilli powder for rim.

saucepan over medium heat. Simmer for 15 minutes, stirring occasionally to be sure that the sugar dissolves, then remove from heat and set aside. Place the zucchini in a large jar (or multiple smaller jars) and pour over the pickling liquid ensuring that all of the zucchini is covered. Place lid on jar and refrigerate for at least one day before serving. The pickles can be stored in the refrigerator for up to two months.

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47

Health and Lifestyle

A LOOK DOWN SECOND AVE

When in Doubt, Wear Denim

by EMMA POLIT

D

enim. My numero uno.

I looove summer, but giirrrrl, do I love to wear jeans. They’re my staple, and that’s a tough spot to be in when the temps are hitting anywhere over 22 degrees (that’s my cut off). This summer (can we call it that when it’s 3 degrees in the morning?) has been kind to the jeans lover. I’ve been able to squeeze in quite a few days in my fave jeans and tee combo. The beauty of mountain living is that even on warmer days, it usually cools off in the evening perfect for denim! I (clearly) have a thing for jeans, but there is so much more in the denim world. Shorts, skirts, dresses, jackets, tops, jumpsuits – it’s endless. Denim can be worn all year long.You can turn any item into the perfect garment to wear from season to season.

The rise of the skinny jeans in the early 2000s was fast and furious. EVERYONE wore them, and there wasn’t much else available. While the denim trend has moved past the skinny obsession, there is still something to be said about the perfect pair of black high-waist skinny jeans. They will forever (that’s a bold claim I may one day take back) be the ideal accompaniment for every top that you own. Call them your go-to, your saviour, your salvation – they get you, and will always do you a real service. All hail the black skinny! Pick up the perfect pair of Levi Mile High Super Skinny jeans from Freyja.

While the skinny popularity might never truly leave our closets, it’s clear that the wider, more relaxed-fit, vintage style jeans are having their moment. Volcom has the skinnies slightly looser cousin, the straight leg, and they’re available at Edge of the World. They have a high waist, fit straight through the hips and have managed to pull off the distressed, well-loved look without going over the top.

My favourite denim skirt is the RVCA high rise Jolt Denim Skirt, available at Commit.

It is the perfect colour, the ideal length, rigid, vintage look to the denim and a high waist.

Pop on a white tee, some sneakers and sunnies and you will look just right.

Easy to wear over anything/everything, the Billabong Sun Seeker Overall from Boardstiff will have you relaxing into your day. It has a slightly fitted bodice, a relaxed fit through the thigh and tapers at the leg. Be it the beach, couch or lunch these fun overalls will have you coverall’d (sorry, couldn’t help myself).

Denim short’s are easily one of the most popular items in warmer weather.

They are as versatile as jeans – they go with everything. No. 3 Boutique has a great brand, Articles of Society, in-store and their Meredith shorts are super cute. Tattered hems and loose threads give these high-waisted cutoffs a well-worn and well-loved appeal.

To complete your denim experience, throw on the Levi’s Ex-Boyfriend Trucker Jacket from Freyja. It’s big, long and loose with an extra-relaxed silhouette for an oversized look.You can wear it over anything, which again, is the best part about denim.

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Bits and Bytes

September 2019

by ASHLEY KRISTINA

S

eptember will be a very practical month and getting organised after summer is the focus. September will be all about work and service, scheduled duties and getting the daily tasks of life in good order. A full moon occurs September 14 in Aries and it will be tightly conjunct Chiron, the place we all feel our wounds, so mid-month will feel like a new moon: inward and dark, possibly painful. Saturn, the planet that rules time and tradition, rules, structure, responsibility, discipline, restriction, obstacles, hardships, karma, strength and self-mastery will go direct at 13 degrees of Capricorn on September 18 after a long five month retrograde period so we will see more ambition and methodical independence occur. There will be a bit more forward momentum however we still have three heavy-weight planets sitting retrograde (Pluto, Neptune, Uranus) which means that life is still a little slow and the energy is more internalised.

The New moon of the month occurs at 5 degrees of Libra on September 28 at 12:26 pm.

Aries September is grounding for you. It will be a good time go on a cleanse and get your health in order. The full moon will affect you, and descending into your heart to sense your inner wisdom and discover what may be buried becomes your journey.

Taurus Virgo energy is very similar to your energy: feminine, earthly, the harvest. It’s a good time to connect with the earth and get your home and garden in order, perhaps begin a new health regime.

Gemini Both you and Virgo are ruled by the planet Mercury so this month, with the four main planets sitting in Virgo energy, you will in

many ways feel in your element however it will help direct your energy more. There is momentum forward for you in whatever you decide to do.

Cancer September is emotionally grounding for you which supports you to be more practical. Enjoy getting your home organised which will create order within yourself as well.

Leo This month is all about family for you and you will see momentum in business occur towards the end of the month. September might feel more boring as it is very practical and reserved however it is needed.

Virgo You shine this month and will feel very in your element. To-do lists get done, everything gets organised‌ a good fall detox would be awesome for your health, too. Happy birthday,Virgo!

Libra The first three weeks of this month will help direct your energy into a scheduled and practical way. Momentum forward in whatever you put your energy into will occur well for you. Happy birthday to some of you!

Scorpio A health regime such as an exercise schedule and mild detox or attention to your diet would be the best place to put your energy this month. Work becomes more full on and schedules become important again. Good luck!

Sagittarius You are another energy that would do well focusing on cleaning up your diet and creating a healthy schedule, including a healthy sleep schedule. Organisation creates peace and this month brings improvements for you.

ASTROLOGY

Capricorn The real energy you will feel this month is when your ruling planet goes direct on September 18. The momentum forward will feel good as I can imagine the past five months have felt like you have been a bit stuck in mud. Enjoy!

Aquarius Discipline is good for you this month, especially for your exercise, diet and sleep.

Embrace the mid-month moon as it will feel emotional for all involved. The last week of September will be more aligned with you as the Sun moves to your fellow air-sign, Libra, giving lighter energy.

Pisces All this Virgo energy sits directly across the Zodiac from you so it stabilises you! Duties and service, organsation, practicality - these energies balance your life. A scheduled regime creates waves that will last for the rest of the year.

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Fernie Fun

FIX TRIVIA

SPOT THE DIFFERENCE Can you find five differences between these two pictures?

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

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FernieFixMag

ANSWERS AUGUST SPOT THE DIFFERENCE FIND THE Somewhere in this issue is this image. Can you find it?

NAME THE BUSINESS/ BUILDING These businesses or buildings are located in downtown Fernie, can you name them?

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Spa-tember, Dining and Beer!

Spa-tember As summer slowly changes to fall, the colours are on display and the temperature cools off a bit, making it the perfect time for a spa getaway. September only: $15 Healing Hollow Mini Facial with any Massage or Body Treatment including any Spa Package (save $20). Have a look at our website for a full menu and list of Packages. Spa More - You deserve it.

Beer Makers Dinner - Thursday, Sept 26th. Join us for a 4-course dinner paired with 4 beers. $99 per person. Partnered with Fernie Brewing Co.

Monday Date Nights - until Sept 30th!

2 entrĂŠes, 2 glasses of bubbly and an appetizer to share - $99 per couple Wine Tasting Wednesday - Until Oct 2nd!

4 courses paired with wine.

- $99 per person

Avoid disappointment - call ahead to inquire about reservations and availability. Check our website for restaurant hours, spa offerings, dining menus and accommodation packages.

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