Shootin' the Breeze – July 12, 2017

July 12, 2017 Year 6, Issue 44

FREE

A weekly breath of fresh air!

Special Features This Week: Best of Summer — Page 9 | Pets and Heatstroke — Page 10

Sinister 7 Ultra punishes racers for 10th straight year

Sinister 7 Ultra runners pass through Frank Slide on the first leg of their 100-mile adventure race Saturday morning. This was the 10th annual ultramarathon held in Crowsnest Pass and the challenging course paled in comparison to the scorching heat that left many racers exhausted in the dust. See more on page 2.

Photo by Shannon Robison

* New houses for sale * General contracting * Build with confidence Mountain View Heights Subdivision Lots for sale Builders welcome Established in 1977 Let our 39 years of experience benefit you!

Geroconstruction.com albertaportablebuildings.com 403-339-5356 – Sheldon Boese 403-627-9256 – Darren Boese 403-627-5356 – Office 1375 Hunter Street, Pincher Creek

THE FABULOUS DOT SALE! 30%

40%

50%

60%

On Now — Don’t Miss Out! The more you buy, the more you save!

Ruffles Boutique

2012 Ltd.

403-627-4640 Monday to Saturday – 10 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.

803 Main Street

Pincher Creek

Page 2

Shootin’ the Breeze

July 12, 2017

Distributed weekly to Town and MD of Pincher Creek, Crowsnest Pass, Brocket, Hill Spring and Glenwood

Sinister 7 Ultra celebrates 10 years of adventure racing

By Tyler Ryan A decade ago, Brian and Sarah Gallant and Andrew and Erin Fairhurst decided to bring an ultramarathon to Crowsnest Pass.

Getting their race off the starting line a year later was much more difficult than they expected.

“We really struggled with the format, the name and how long [the course] should be,” Brian says.

As they determined the logistics of bringing a gruelling, multi-part race to the Pass, inspiration for the name came from an unlikely source: a map.

“We tossed names back and forth and I just so happened to look at a map on my wall that said ‘the Seven Sisters Mountain,’ ” Brian says.

After reading something online that used the word “sinister,” he looked back at the map and “transposed sinister and sister.”

“I thought, ‘the Seven Sinister,’ but that didn’t sound quite right,” Brian recounts. “But ‘Sinister 7’?

That’s exactly what we should call it.”

Brian ran the name by Andrew and it instantly stuck.

Andrew designed a course with seven different stages, where teams of up to seven runners could take on the newly minted Sinister 7.

“We just felt that we wanted to start an event that we could repeat year after year,” Brian says, after being asked about the differences between the Sinister 7 ultramarathon and the similar Full Moon in June race that required the organizers to find a new venue every year.

“We wanted to make it manageable and make it something that the community could look forward to every year.”

In 2008, the first Sinister 7 race attracted 160 participants.

Darren Froese came out on top that year with a solo race time of 17 hours 13 minutes 53 seconds.

Annie Rogochewsky was the first solo female runner to cross the finish line at 22:23:24.

The Fast Trax Run & Ski Shop team took top spot home with a time of 12:24:41.

point — only 18 per cent of solo runners crossed the line.

The average number of solo finishes is 35 per cent but weather plays a factor.

In 2016, the average temperature was 20 C and 40 per cent of solo racers crossed the finish line.

This year, racers took off from Blairmore’s Gazebo Park at 7 a.m.

Saturday, with 30 hours to run, walk or crawl the 100-mile course that boasted an elevation gain of 6,401 metres.

The average temperature sat in the mid-to-low 30s throughout the weekend. In some parts of the Pass, thermometers read 35 degrees.

The third leg of the race pushed runners through Willoughby Ridge and was considered the most difficult part of the race. Runners hit the ridge at 2 p.m. and the sun beat down on them from the highest point in the sky.

Racers traversed the area of the Lost Creek Fire that raged back in 2003. Brian says competitors were “exposed to the sun because there is very little tree cover and [racers] could go long stretches without water.”

Elevation gain reached 1,357 metres through Leg 3 and this

Twenty-seven runners did not finish the first race.

As the years flew by, tweaks and changes were made to the course.

By 2014, Sinister 7 had officially become a 100-mile ultramarathon — equivalent to 161 kilometres.

Through word of mouth, the legend of the Sinister 7 Ultra spread like wildfire, and in recent years registrations for solo and team competitors have sold out within minutes.

A milestone race in 2017 This year was no different.

Three hundred people registered in the solo category and 1,300 more registered among 205 teams for the 10th annual race.

Hundreds of volunteers were required along the route to assist runners and make sure everything ran smoothly.

The Sinister 7 Ultra has built a reputation as one of the toughest ultramarathons on the planet for even the most experienced athletes, and this year proved the

See SINISTER 7 continued on page 3

Photo by Tyler Ryan

Known locally as the BBK, this group of Crowsnest Pass runners was second among female teams to cross the Sinister 7 finish line. From left are Kendra-Ann Kennedy, Jackie Woodman, Laurie Huska, Kathy Wakaluk-Yanco with grandson Emerson, Christine Misseghers, Lana Ross and Jody Peebles. See more on page 4.

SPECIAL RETIREES' HEARING AID!

EVERYTHING MUST GO

50% to 75% OFF

A remarkable new hearing aid is now available and getting rave reviews from retirees! It is easy to use, looks great in the ear, and marks a MAJOR advancement in hearing technology!

At last. The hearing aid that thousands have wanted is now available.

The latest digital hearing aid technology solves the biggest challenge for hearing aid wearers–hearing well in noisy environments.

Nobody will notice it because of its minute size, fitting snugly and comfortably just behind your ear.

Everything works automatically. There are no controls to worry about and adjustments are easy to make–even from your smart phone. So you can get back to enjoying your relationships, rather than thinking about your hearing.

Because these new hearing aids collect and digitally processes natural, 360 degree sound thousands of times

CELEBRATE CANADA 150!

per second, they have been shown to reduce the strain that effortful-listening puts on the brain and even to improve recall from conversations in noisy listening environments. In fact, these hearing aids improve speech understanding in background noise 30% better than even the previous top-of-the-line hearing aids.

Hearing professionals are celebrating the biggest advancement in 30 years of fitting hearing aids and patients credit it with providing a substantial improvement in their ability to communicate in large groups and noisy social settings.

A hearing test takes less than 60 minutes, you don’t need a doctor’s referral, and there’s no cost or obligation whatsoever.

Call now to try these hearing aids for yourself!

Earn 150 AIR MILES® reward miles when you join us for a FREE Hearing Test Call now or visit HearingLifeCanada.com

OFFER ENDS JULY 31 ST

THE LEARNING BOX Ranchland Mall Pincher Creek 403-904-5055

Leishman’s VISIT US ON THE

3 R D TUESDAY OF THE MONTH

Where:

When: Call:

Blairmore | Liscombe Chiropractic Clinic at the post office building – 12525-20th Avenue Tuesday, July 18th – 9:00am-12:00pm Tracey at 1-855-561-9759

TRUSTED CFappreciation ca PARTNER OF Hearing tests are provided free of charge for adults ages 18 and older. Some conditions may apply. Please see clinic for details.

Offer not valid in Quebec. Reward Mile offer is limited to adults ages 50 and over and is non-transferable. Please allow up to 45 days for the reward Miles to appear in your collector account. ®†™†Trademark of AIR MILES® International Trading B.V. Used under license by LoyaltyOne Inc. and Canada Hearing Ltd. Offer ends July 31st.

Promo Code:

LEISH

SAT-RTIR-SHTB

Distributed weekly to Town and MD of Pincher Creek, Crowsnest Pass, Brocket, Hill Spring and Glenwood

July 12, 2017

Shootin’ the Breeze

Page 3

Eavestroughing Business For Sale 16 ft cargo trailer with gutter machine, tools and supplies.

Ready to work.

Call 403-627-7313 or 403-627-4943

Need Protection From Ransomeware?

Photos by Tyler Ryan

Ailsa MacDonald of St. Albert made Sinister 7 history on the weekend by being the first female soloist to ever win the race. Here, she accepts the goods to go along with her bragging rights from race director Brian Gallant.

Sign up for our Managed AVG Internet Anti-Virus including Remote Support

$3.99

SINISTER 7, continued from page 2

Per Month

— coupled with the heat — caused many to drop out of the race from exhaustion.

There was one unconventional remedy that apparently helped many racers make it to the end: pickles. Huge jars of them were added to the lists of supplies for aid stations.

“People found that eating pickles and drinking pickle brine helped their stomach, because they got a lot of gastro stress and may be puking a lot during the race,” Brian says.

Pickle juice can help alleviate cramping and nausea, he says, and pickles will most likely be included in future iterations of the race.

However, pickle juice couldn’t help all the racers make it to the end. Several dozen dropped out of the race and received medical attention for dehydration.

“It’s not surprising,” Brian says.

“I knew going into it that, despite preparations, people will quite often under-consume their water.”

Racers may underestimate the temperature, “and then suddenly, they realize they’re cooking.”

A few were hospitalized because they were dehydrated or incapacitated.

“We don’t allow people to languish in the woods,” Brian says.

“As soon as we get a call or have an emergency, we’re on top of it.”

There were two bear sightings along the course, but the animal encounters did not result in an emergency.

The champions History was made this year when Ailsa MacDonald from St. Albert crossed the finish line.

With a time of 18:54:57, Ailsa was the first female racer to come out on top among solo competitors in all the years of the race.

She was followed by male solo runner Alex Petrosky from Edmonton in second (20:32:06).

Alex Petrosky shows his award for top male soloist.

Special 70% discounted rate per device

403-627-2922 1-866-768-0516 Ranchland Mall Pincher Creek service@inspiris.ca

Yard of the Month

FOR SALE BY OWNER

Nominate an Outstanding Front or Backyard for July

Immediate Possession Location, Location, Location!

Why?

Drew Sommerfeldt was the oldest soloist to finish the race.

Ailsa says being crowned champion felt “a bit surreal.”

“This was my first 100-miler,” she says, adding that the Sinister 7 Ultra was her biggest race of the year.

“I’ll give myself some recovery time and then ramp up the training again,” she says, mentioning that she has a 50-kilometre race in September.

This was the second year that the Association of Canadian Ultramarathoners chose the Sinister 7 as its 100-mile Canadian championship race. Ailsa and Alex earned the distinction of being the top 100-mile runners in Canada.

The first time Sinister 7 Ultra was chosen by the ACU as the championship race, in 2015, Alissa St. Laurent and David Proctor achieved the same status.

Local racers had a very strong showing on the podium this year in both the solo and team categories.

Drew Sommerfeldt from Lethbridge was the last racer to cross the finish line. At age 65, Drew was the oldest solo competitor to finish the race.

He says he has competed before, in the fledgling year of the race and last year as well, but in 2016 he did not finish.

“It felt great to finish,” he says.

When asked about how he kept himself going, Drew says, “I had a great crew who kept encouraging me.”

The Sinister 7 Ultra is more than just a race; it’s a test of endurance, willpower, and “a mental game,” as Brian puts it.

“Say you’ve already run 100 kilometres and you have 60 more to go,” he says. “If you’re not feeling it or if you’re not in the right state of mind, you’re going to talk yourself out of continuing.”

Crossing the finish line is a major achievement.

For a full list of placings, please visit www.sinister7.com.

{ Celebrating the efforts of our neighbours in beautifying Pincher Creek’s neighbour hoods. { Recognizing homeowners’ efforts at enhancing their properties. { Encourage the planting and maintenance of gardens. { Profile top yards as models for others. { Community involvement.

Who:

$265,000

Just north of Waterton National Park, 656 McDougall Street, Pincher Creek 4 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, finished basement.

Must see large private yard and deck, 26 x 24 shop with 12 ft door.

Call Ray @ 250-689-1565

Anyone can nominate a front or backyard

When: The first two weeks of the month of July

How: In person at Recreation Office By phone to 403-627-4322 Online – www.pinchercreek150.ca All nominations receive a certificate of recognition.

The winner’s yard will be announced through social media, newsletters, put on Google tour map and marked with a “Yard in Bloom” sign.

GARAGE SALES Saturday, July 15 Multi-Family Garage Sale 2315 TWP Rd. 7-3A From Lundbreck Falls follow signs – 1 km west of falls, south side of Crowsnest River.

8:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.

Furniture, kitchen & household items, construction materials, tools, truck canopy, 16’ stock trailer, saddle & tack and jewelry Garage sale season is here!

Use this inexpensive group ad to drive more people to your sale. Listings may include as much detail as you like.

Listings cost $10 (per week) and include up to 25 words.

Additional words are 15 cents each.

Consecutive weeks, without changes, are half price.

Email your sale info to office@shootinthebreeze.ca or call 403-904-2227 Deadline is Thursday prior to publication at noon

NEWLY-RENOVATED HOUSE IN PINCHER CREEK Available August 1st Upper-floor unit – 1,500 sq. ft., 3 bedrooms, one bath, $1,400 per month Basement Suite – two bedrooms, one bath, $800 per month

Call 403-627-5356 for more info

Page 4

Shootin’ the Breeze

July 12, 2017

Distributed weekly to Town and MD of Pincher Creek, Crowsnest Pass, Brocket, Hill Spring and Glenwood

Local Sinners earn podium spots

By Tyler Ryan Running in the Sinister 7 Ultra or volunteering to make it happen is something many locals look forward to each year.

To see familiar faces on the podium of such a difficult race is incredible.

Having sold his share of Sinister 7 Ultra ownership a few years back, Andrew Fairhurst of Coleman tackled the course for the first time as a solo runner this year.

He was the third competitor overall to finish, securing second place in the men’s division with a time of 20 hours 45 minutes 29 seconds.

He crushed his goal of finishing within 24 hours.

Shirlene Gietz from Coleman was the second woman to cross the finish line with a time of 24:48:52. She had competed in previous years with Team BBK, also from Coleman, but this was her first time running solo.

“My whole goal was to finish, and I wasn’t going to quit,” she says.

She had solid support from Sasha Harriet and her crew, along with her family and the other soloists who helped her take the race “one leg at a time.”

She has no intention of running in the race next year, saying “it was one of those bucket list kind of things.”

Team BBK placed second in the female team category, just behind the RRAC female team from Edmonton.

Members of team BBK were Kathy Wakaluk-Yanco, Jody Peebles, Jackie Woodman, Christine Misseghers, Kendra Kennedy, Laurie Huska and Lana Ross.

The ultramarathon also offers Photo by Tyler Ryan a $500 scholarShirlene Gietz took second place in the women’s diviship for students sion of the Sinister 7 Ultra. from Crowsnest

Western FINANCIAL GROUP

Pass Consolidated High School to compete. It has been provided to the students for nine years.

Jody and Ryan Peebles were the first to organize and coach the young athletes.

This year, Andrew and Erin Fairhurst took the reins to coach the co-ed high school students team, Running on Teen Spirit. They finished in 33rd place in the mixed category, with a combined time of 22:27:51. Team members were Sommer Hagley, Samantha Williams, Anna Koevoet, Hayley Williams, Stanley Van Buul-Gustafson, Noah Schuh and Christian Wadstein.

In total, seven teams and five solo runners from Crowsnest Pass and Pincher Creek participated in Sinister 7.

The ultramarathon has a huge economic impact on Crowsnest Pass, giving many local businesses a boost. The race attracts runners from all over Canada and there are even international competitors who come out.

Jessica Atkinson, owner of Stone’s Throw Café in Blairmore, has been a sponsor since the first year, and says the race “absolutely” benefits her business.

“We love the Sinners, because they’re the happiest group of customers that we see in our store,” she says, using the nickname given to race participants.

“I think it definitely brings in all kinds of business to the restaurants and the liquor stores and the gas stations and the holiday homes and hotels,” she says. “Everybody is full and it’s a busy weekend for everyone.”

Susan and Ian Lowe-Wylde are the owners of Spry, a fitness and yoga shop in Blairmore that also sponsors the race.

Susan echoes Jessica, saying the economic impact on both her business and Crowsnest Pass in general is fantastic.

She constantly hears visitors say they want to return to the Pass with their families, and racers tend to come back to experience the running trails.

“Our community has really embraced all of these runners who are coming from far and wide,” she says.

This year, Susan and Ian donated Icebug running shoes and Luna sandals to race winners.

Management at the Kanata Hotel in Blairmore also attest to the race’s impact. The hotel was completely booked with racers, their partners and families, as were many other local hotels and

campgrounds.

Brian says the race brings in an estimated $2 million in revenue for businesses in Crowsnest Pass, citing an economic development officer who helped assess the value of the event.

Even though the 2017 Sinister 7 Ultra has just finished, Brian is already looking forward to next year’s race on July 8 and 9.

Registration opens Dec. 1 at noon and is Photo by Shannon Robison expected to fill Andrew Fairhurst closes in up very quickly. on the Sinister 7 Ultra finish Brian plans line at about 4 o’clock Sunto keep the day morning. He was third number of to finish and placed second racers fairly among male soloists. consistent over the next few years, but hopes to eventually draw more solo runners and female athletes.

“I would like to start to see over 500 solo runners in the race, but that will take some time,” he says. “It could take another 10 years to get it to that level.”

“I’m just happy to see it increasing over time and I’m not particularly chasing a number.”

Even though the race is difficult, it’s not insurmountable. Shirlene Gietz thinks anybody can compete if they push hard enough, remove any self-doubt and “just take it one leg at a time.”

“The support from the community is unbelievable,” she says. “Being out there on the trail, you meet so many people who are going through the same struggle that you’re going through.”

kup

Chec

Distributed weekly to Town and MD of Pincher Creek, Crowsnest Pass, Brocket, Hill Spring and Glenwood

Sproule Farms

July 12, 2017

High Voltage Enterprises

Lost Creek Services Wild West Automotive

Steel Dragon Machining

Shootin’ the Breeze

Page 5

Page 6

Shootin’ the Breeze

Distributed weekly to Town and MD of Pincher Creek, Crowsnest Pass, Brocket, Hill Spring and Glenwood

July 12, 2017

Soulfest highlights Canadian music

By Auralea Boldt “The hosts are fantastic!” says area resident Ola Crook when you ask what she liked best about Soulfest. “The music was grand.

Small festival, big heart!”

This past weekend, cowboys, hippies, hipsters, rockers and ordinary people united at the 11th annual festival.

Soulfest is the brainchild of Jeny and Phil Akitt, owners of Twin Butte Country General Store and Mexican Restaurant, and is an expression of their love of music.

“We have this festival to highlight the bands,” Jeny says.

They host what she describes as a “tiny, community-oriented festival” over a July weekend on their picturesque acreage near Twin Butte.

The land is transformed into a festival site complete with a barn-wood stage, large tents, porta-potties and this year an enormous Slip ’n Slide.

The ticket price was $60 for the weekend of music, dinner on Saturday evening and breakfast on Sunday morning.

The festival featured blues, alternative, rock, folk, bluegrass, country, gypsy and indie music.

Cam Penner and John Wood were the hosts for the event.

Bill Durst kicked off the festivities to a warm reception on Friday evening.

He is an award-winning blues artist who has been a featured performer at prominent festivals such as the Montreal International Jazz Festival. He was a founding member of the band Thundermug from London, Ont., for which he was inducted into the city’s music hall of fame.

Patrick Alexandre, Caroline Mark, Rotary Park, and Boots and the Hoots were other featured performers.

While the temperature rose over the weekend, adults and children stayed cool in the creek, in the shade, or taking turns down the Slip ’n Slide.

The audience built gradually in size throughout the day on Saturday.

Against the backdrop of a full moon, Blackberry Wood Circus — an eclectic band with a gypsy, folksy, alternative sound — served as the climax of the festival on Saturday evening, They wowed the crowd with their unique music and enthusiasm, but also with their overall

performance. As their name implies, watching the band is a little like attending the circus.

They even brought their own boa constrictor, wrapped around the body of one of the band members.

Along with its headline acts, Soulfest attracts a loyal following of fans who return year after year for the festivities.

One concertgoer says she has been here every year for nine years — except for the weekend she had to attend her son’s wedding.

“Once you go to Soulfest, you are a lifer,” says Jeny, organizer of the event.

While it does grow to a larger size some years, the small scale of the festival is a major part of its charm.

“I love that by Saturday night you can have met everyone there and have made 20 new friends,” says Kassandra Chancey, a Twin Butte restaurant employee who worked behind the scenes on the weekend. “It’s all about the community and being together.”

“We become a family for the weekend,” Jeny says.

If the T-shirt stands, mass vendors, food trucks, liquor licence and mass advertising came in, Soulfest would be something else entirely.

It hasn’t sold out, in either the literal or the metaphorical sense.

“Soulfest is straight from Jeny and Phil’s heart,” says concertgoer and area resident Karla Breeze. “And everybody who goes can feel it.”

Photos by Auralea Boldt

In first photo, festivalgoers Lisa Melanson Zilavec, left, Darci Lounsbury and April Lambert gush over Lora D’Agnillo’s wares, a unique collection of jewelry and artwork. In centre photo, Daelen Breeze stays cool, despite the hot temperature, by riding down the huge Slip ’n Slide. At right, Carolyn Mark starts the Saturday afternoon show on a high note, even getting the crowd to sing along. At top right is a new festival sign created by Phil Hogg of Mountain View.

The Pincher Creek Mustangs would love for you to

JOIN OUR TEAM! Our football family promotes lifelong values such as commitment, hard work, teamwork and respect.

Registration is now open for our regular season Fees are $300. All equipment is provided except for cleats and girdles.

Peewees – Born 2004 to 2008 Bantams – Born 2001 to 2003 (no Grade 10s) Seniors – Grades 10 to 12 For more information, please contact Faith at 403-627-7751 Registration forms can be picked up from Pincher Creek Vet Clinic

CLOSED FRIDAYS The office of Shootin’ the Breeze will be closed Fridays effective July 7

Please contact Shannon Robison, publisher, by phone at 403-904-2227 or by email at shannon@shootinthebreeze.ca if you require assistance when the office is closed Advertising and editorial deadline is Thursday at 4 p.m.

697A Main St.

Pincher Creek

Distributed weekly to Town and MD of Pincher Creek, Crowsnest Pass, Brocket, Hill Spring and Glenwood

July 12, 2017

Shootin’ the Breeze

Page 7

Archers enjoy 3D shoot at Castle Mountain

By Tyler Ryan Archers were broken Skiers and snowboardinto flights — groups of six ers may zoom around — and competed amongst Castle Mountain Resort all themselves to see who was winter, but the only things the best. zooming through the air In addition to the comon Canada Day weekend petitions, there were raffle were arrows. prizes given out, including Ninety-six archers of a compound bow donated all skill levels travelled to

by Pincher Creek Co-op. the resort for the second Even though there annual 3D Archery Shoot, was an aspect of friendly put on by the Pincher competition, Duane says Creek Archery Club. the shoot was more about Club president Duane having a good time and Filipuzzi says the archery enjoying the beauty of weekend was a great time Castle Mountain. for everybody involved.

Due to the overwhelm“For our very first ingly positive feedback for time doing [the shoot] the 3D Archery Shoot, he in a venue like this, we plans to run it again next were really happy with year if he can. He’s very the turnout,” he says. He thankful to all the sponsors adds that shoot organizers and to Castle Mountain Ski have been getting a lot of Resort for being so accompositive feedback because modating. the ranges were scenic and “I just really want to say Photo by Tyler Ryan challenging. thank you to all of our club Dean Thornton, left, and John Haluck line up a shot during the shoot-off competition at the 3D Duane says the number members that helped orgaArchery Shoot held Canada Day weekend at Castle Mountain. of archers this year was nize [the archery shoot] almost double the number and make it happen, and who came to the first shoot thanks to all of the busiAlthough he was a little rusty, he Steve Milan won the shoot-off last year. nesses that supported us because had a great time over the course competition and pocketed $30.

Most were shooting with comthere were a lot of them,” Duane of the weekend and was in awe of In the compound bow category, pound bows but there were a few says. the other talented archers.

Mel Corbett came out on top and traditional bow shooters as well.

More events are in the works “Some of these guys are really won $100. Cory Smandych was a Travis Jagielski used a comfor the Pincher Creek Archery good and some are even sponclose second and snagged $50. pound bow and, between shots, Club. There are plans to have sored,” he said.

In the traditional category, Ray said the event was “awesome, and a turkey shoot at ChristmasThroughout the weekend, a Neumeyer was crowned chamCastle Mountain is one heck of a time and there may be another series of competitions challenged pion, netting $50. Ross McIlwraith venue.” club-sponsored shoot next March. archers and their aim, such as came in second and won $25.

John Haluck, another com“I’m sure this is going to get a long-shot competition and a There was even a competition pound bow user, was also on the bigger,” Duane says. “We’re hopeshoot-off. for kids. Joe Schmid won first hill practising his aim before the ful that we can continue with this Champions were crowned at place and $20, while Paige Hutton long-shot competition began. venue for a few years to come.” the end of the event. took second place and $10.

Page 8

Shootin’ the Breeze

Distributed weekly to Town and MD of Pincher Creek, Crowsnest Pass, Brocket, Hill Spring and Glenwood

July 12, 2017

Scorching heat didn’t stop Blueweed Blitz

By Tyler Ryan It was blisteringly hot last Saturday, but the heat didn’t stop over 70 volunteers from pitching in at the 15th annual Blueweed Blitz held just south of Pincher Creek.

Weeders broke off into groups and tackled weed-infested areas within 13 different landholdings and along the creek.

“It’s basically neighbours trying to organize a day to gather and pick weeds and make it a community event,” says Bradley Bustard, one of the organizers.

Alan Jacklin is an expert on blueweed and has been involved with management of the invasive species since the late 1980s.

He explains that blueweed is a biennial plant and a single blueweed can produce hundreds of seeds.

“Nothing eats blueweed,” Alan says. “It likes the flats along the river and the moisture gets it going.”

In the first year of growth, blueweed develops a roseate that sprouts close to the ground, distinguishable by its long green leaves and round shape.

A year later, it becomes a tall, spiny plant with identifiable blue flowers.

The noxious weed can take over large swaths of land if left untouched.

A squad from the ShellWaterton Complex and a team from Parks Canada based in Waterton turned out to help clear the weeds. The MD of Pincher Creek sent a spray crew who steered clear of the creek to ensure the water was not contaminated.

Blueweed shares similar characteristics with neighbouring lupins, making it hard to pinpoint.

Key differences between the plants include blueweed typically growing a spiny stalk and the flowers that are straight and long.

The lupin has a rotund flower and stalk that is not prickly.

When weeders returned, they offloaded bright yellow bags filled with the invasive plants to be taken away for disposal.

Many volunteers mentioned the importance of careful handling of blueweed. Because the plant can host hundreds of seeds, weeders need to be gentle to ensure the seeds aren’t spread.

Various awards were given out to conclude the event, including oldest picker, longest root and best-dressed for the beach.

The coveted Bent Back Award went to the Parks Canada crew because they went above and beyond what was necessary to help eliminate the weed.

Although the weeders may have put a dent in the invasive blueweed population this year, event organizers know they may not be able to fully clear the weed out any time soon.

“It’s frustrating, because I think when we started this, we were going to eliminate blueweed from the Pincher Creek, but we’ve still got a couple years to work on that,” says Bradley.

Organizers are very thankful to everyone who came out to help with this year’s iteration of the Blueweed Blitz.

My Little

morning, runners shouted greetings as they passed me with my camera. Several called out thanks to me for being there.

That isn’t something that happens often.

All kinds of people ran up and over the hill I was stationed at.

There was a boy who couldn’t have been more than 10 and others in their senior years. There were men and women, some in top-notch shape and others a little to the softer side.

Each had a personal reason for tying up their shoes that morning and heading off to the start line.

I made several trips to the transition area for legs 5 and 6 and was amazed by both the athletes and the volunteers.

Sinister 7 runs like a smoothly oiled machine. It requires a huge volunteer effort, and everyone

appeared to enjoy what they were doing.

I listened as race participants and their support teams talked about the race. The conversations went well beyond the race itself.

Over and over I heard mention of the hospitality extended by the community as a whole.

People spoke of the volunteers and the calibre of the event — everything I heard was good.

Fourteen-year-old Ola Newrick was a one-person cheering section at this transition. With microphone in hand, she roused the crowd when she felt they weren’t supporting the runners loudly enough.

Ola’s shift was over at midnight, but she was still there when I left around 2 a.m.

It was amazing to cheer on Andrew Fairhurst as he crossed the finish line. I had been at the

line with camera in hand in the past, but it’s much different when you know the one crossing it.

What I didn’t realize at the time was that the BBK ladies had already brought their team home in second place and that Stephanie Gietz would be the second woman to finish a few hours later.

Think about it. This is a worldclass race and people we know are showing what they’re made of.

My favourite Sinister 7 moments came after the event, sitting in discussion with Erin and Andrew Fairhurst at their dining room table.

With limited space available, I’ve chosen to save that story for next week so I can do it right.

Sinister 7 is a great example of a sport extending into many facets of the community.

Kudos to all involved.

CORNER An editorial column

by Shannon Robison

I first sat down for coffee with Brian Gallant to discuss the Sinister 7 Ultra five years ago.

After this past weekend, I have a much better understanding of what the race brings to the community and what the community offers in return.

As I stood among the boulders of the Frank Slide early Saturday

Share your stories and news ideas!

Positive submissions, letters to the editor and photos are always welcome.

Please limit to 350 words.

Submit to news@shootinthebreeze.ca Editorial deadline is Thursday at noon

www.shootinthebreeze.ca

Shootin’ the Breeze is available digitally 24/7

Photo by Tyler Ryan

A positive voice in southern Alberta sharing personal and business success stories and community events.

Small Business Award of Excellence winner in 2013

Scan the QR code with your smartphone to link directly to our website.

Check it out!

EDITORIAL

Participants gathered for a group shot when the weeding was done.

Shannon Robison, Publisher – Design, Writing, Photography Cary Robison – Editing , Accounting, Tech Brenda Shenton – Admin. Assistance, Photography, Distribution Management Jessica Jensen – Pincher Creek Advertising Sales Maureen Bevan – Crowsnest Pass Advertising Sales Erin Fairhurst – Writing, Photography Auralea Boldt – Writing, Photography Tyler Ryan – Writing, Photography Jaiden Panchyshyn – Photography, Design, Social Media Management Gary Andrews – Crowsnest Pass Distribution Blaise O’Rourke – Pincher Creek Distribution

Office hours 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., Monday to Thursday

ADVERTISING Display ads, obituaries, personal ads, business directory ads and national ads are accepted for print.

Submit to ads@shootinthebreeze.ca jessica@shootinthebreeze.ca maureen@shootinthebreeze.ca Advertising deadline is Thursday at 4 p.m.

697A Main Street | Box 811, Pincher Creek, AB T0K 1W0

2,000+ copies of Shootin’ the Breeze are distributed every Wednesday to over 110 locations in Crowsnest Pass, MD and Town of Pincher Creek, Piikani Nation, Glenwood and Hill Spring

PROUD TO BE LOCALLY OWNED AND LOCALLY STAFFED! www.shootinthebreeze.ca 403-904-2227 info@shootinthebreeze.ca

Distributed weekly to Town and MD of Pincher Creek, Crowsnest Pass, Brocket, Hill Spring and Glenwood

July 12, 2017

Shootin’ the Breeze

Page 9

on vacation? enjoying a staycation? kids bored? looking for local events and specials?

Let these businesses look after your summer needs!

TOWN & COUNTRY LIQUOR STORE Canadian – 24 cans

$43.99

Includes GST and deposit

Absolut Vodka – 750 ml

$24.99

Includes GST and deposit

Check out our instore draws and many more specials!

1027 Main Street Pincher Creek like us on facebook

Kootenai Brown Pioneer Village Presents

BEERS TO YOU! Saturday, July 22 — 5 to 11 p.m.

Experience the art of craft beer with Andrew Hilton Buckets of craft beer!

• Mouth-watering hot foods • Door prizes • Auction • Live music • Ugly tie contest

Stop by Glenwood this summer!

Glenwood Pioneer Ice Cream Parlour and Museum Open Monday to Saturday Noon to 9 p.m.

78 Main Avenue Glenwood

Advance Tickets $10 each — Available at KBPV Beer, refreshments and food cost extra

30 Annual Show – August 4, 5, 6 th

1037 Bev McLachlin Drive Pincher Creek kootenaibrown.ca

Celebrating Barn Grand Opening Events start Friday at 3 p.m., see details on website Live entertainment all day Saturday and Sunday Pedal tractors are back!

Breakfast served Saturday and Sunday Saturday dinner with live entertainment Free admission for kids 16 and under

www.heritageacres.org

Take a walk through the past and connect with the future.

Open Daily – 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

403-563-5434 7701 18th Avenue Coleman

403-627-2082

From Highway 3, turn north on Highway 785 for 8.4 km then turn right

Canada 150!

Please join us as we celebrate 150 years of Canada with books, games, crafts and more!

WEDNESDAYS

Children entering Grades 1 and 2 10:30 a.m. to noon Children entering Grades 3 to 5 1:30 to 3 p.m.

Visit the library to register and for more info

Contact your sales representative for discounted rates!

More Fun at the Library!

Drop-in Programs

Maureen Bevan – Crowsnest Pass 403-563-9192 maureen@shootinthebreeze.ca Jessica Jensen – Pincher Creek 403-904-2227 jessica@shootinthebreeze.ca

Book Your Ad TODAY!

Outside Karate (Shorei-Kan)

Ages 6 to 18 with Sensei Peter July 14 & 28, Aug. 25 – 11 a.m. to noon Ask library staff about waivers on arrival

Craft Monsters

Ages 6 to 11 Aug. 18 – 11 a.m. to noon

Rocky Mountain Mechanical 403-627-2127 1088 Main Street Pincher Creek

The Importance of Bees

Ages 3 to 11 with Alberta Parks Aug. 11 – 10:30 a.m. to noon

Page 10

Shootin’ the Breeze

Distributed weekly to Town and MD of Pincher Creek, Crowsnest Pass, Brocket, Hill Spring and Glenwood

July 12, 2017

NO WALKS IN THE HEAT OF THE DAY

WATCH FOR SYMPTOMS

Watch for signs of heatstroke: heavy panting, excessive drooling, weakness, tremors or disorientation.

React quickly, if necessary.

During the summer, people are not the only ones who can suffer from the heat; your pets can also be affected. Here are some safety tips to help you prevent heat stroke and ensure your four-legged friends stay healthy and happy.

STAY COOL

Avoid exercising your dog in hot weather. Opt instead for a walk in the late evening or early morning.

HYDRATION

Prevent dehydration by making sure your dog or cat always has access to fresh water in sufficient quantities.

Use a spray bottle to lower a small pet’s body temperature. A little water on the head and legs can refresh larger animals.

IN THE CAR

Never leave your pet alone in the car or in a poorly ventilated room, even if the windows are slightly open and it’s only for a few minutes. Also, if you go on any long trips, stop at least every two hours to give your pet some fresh air and a drink.

AVOID HOT SURFACES

Be careful during heat waves; hot sidewalks can injure animals’ paws.

TRIM LONG HAIR

If you have a long-haired pet, have its coat trimmed to help it stay cooler.

Provide plenty of water and shade ...

HELP YOUR PETS BEAT THE HEAT!

H a p pe n s Shed

Annick is Back!

In-store and mobile grooming for cats and dogs Complimentary pick up and drop off Professional grooming products Servicing Cowley, Lundbreck, Pincher Creek, Hill Spring, Glenwood and Cardston

Pincher Creek Veterinary Clinic

Accepting New Clients!

403-627-3900 1124 Waterton Avenue

Established 2007

Phone: 403 628 5955 Text: 403 339 512 Railway Avenue Cowley

Keeping your dogs well groomed in the summer heat 695 Charlotte St. Pincher Creek

SHADE IS A MUST

Make sure your pet has access to a shady spot at all times; adjust the length of the leash as needed.

403-627-5246

5955

We carry high-quality pet products Sourced and made in Canada Visit the store if you are looking for a specific brand

Take the Pledge Today!

NOHOTPETS.CA

403-627-4000 871 Elk Avenue Pincher Creek

Distributed weekly to Town and MD of Pincher Creek, Crowsnest Pass, Brocket, Hill Spring and Glenwood

July 12, 2017

Shootin’ the Breeze

Page 11

COFFEE BREAK Brought to you by Fix Auto

THREE REASONS TO LIKE OUR FACEBOOK PAGE: • Links to new stories posted throughout the day, every day • Online stories generally have more photos than appear in print • This is an easy way to share and save stories and photos you like WWW.FACEBOOK.COM/SHOOTINTHEBREEZE

MARK YOUR CALENDAR! Wednesday, July 12 – Kickball: 6:30 to 8 p.m. at Lions Park in Pincher Creek.

– Pickleball: 2 to 4 p.m. at MCC Arena in Pincher Creek.

– TD Summer Reading Club at Pincher Creek library. 10:30 a.m. to noon for children entering grades 1 and 2, 1:30 to 3 p.m. for children entering grades 3 to 5.

– Pincher Creek Family Centre Out and About: 10 to 11:30 a.m.

Thursday, July 13 – Mindful Meditation: 8 to 9 a.m. at Cenotaph Park in Pincher Creek.

– Outdoor fitness instruction: 7 p.m. at St. Michael’s School outdoor gym in Pincher Creek.

– Visit Crowsnest Community Market for family fun: 4 to 8 p.m. at Gazebo Park in Blairmore. Featuring live entertainment, handmade items, fresh produce, baking and more. www.crowsnestmarket.com.

Friday, July 14 – Boredom Busters summer camp: 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. for kids 5 to 11 years. Contact Pincher Creek recreation office for registration and information, 403-627-4322.

– Free Movie in the Park: 9 p.m. at Central Park in Pincher Creek.

– Pickleball: 2 to 4 p.m. at MCC Arena in Pincher Creek.

– Outside karate for ages 6 to 18 with Sensei Peter: 11 a.m. to noon at Pincher Creek library.

Saturday, July 15 – Historical Society of St. Henry’s Church 110th anniversary and Canada 150 celebration: 3 p.m. mass, followed by blessing of cemetery, Stations of the Cross and potluck dinner.

– Pincher Mud Bogs: tech at 9:30 a.m., races start at 11. Near Pincher Creek – visit Western Mud Slingers Facebook page for directions.

Sunday, July 16 – Entry deadline for Crowsnest Pass photo contest – see page 12.

July 17 to 21 – Summer Vacation Bible School: 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Rocky View Christian School, three miles east of Pincher Creek. To preregister, call 403-632-5082.

Monday, July 17 – Pickleball: 2 to 4 p.m. at MCC Arena in Pincher Creek.

July 18 to 22 – Vaudeville Theatre Camp for Kids: 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. daily at Crowsnest Pass Public Art Gallery in Frank. Call 403-5622218 to register.

Tuesday, July 18 – Free Lunch & Learn: 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. at Cowley Community Hall. Interactive presentation on fetal alcohol spectrum disorder to create awareness and

understanding. Supervised child activities.

RSVP by July 16 to susie.peters@mcman. ca or 403-382-8221.

– Mindful Meditation: 8 to 9 a.m. at Cenotaph Park in Pincher Creek.

– Pincher Creek Family Centre Play in the Park: 10 to 11:30 a.m. at South Hill Playground in Pincher Creek.

– Boredom Busters summer camp: 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. for kids 5 to 11 years. Contact Pincher Creek recreation office for registration and information, 403-627-4322.

Wednesday, July 19 – Kickball: 6:30 to 8 p.m. at Lions Park in Pincher Creek.

– Pickleball: 2 to 4 p.m. at MCC Arena in Pincher Creek.

– TD Summer Reading Club at Pincher Creek library. 10:30 a.m. to noon for children entering grades 1 and 2, 1:30 to 3 p.m. for children entering grades 3 to 5.

– Pincher Creek Family Centre Out and About: 10 to 11:30 a.m.

Thursday, July 20 – Mindful Meditation: 8 to 9 a.m. at Cenotaph Park in Pincher Creek.

– Visit Crowsnest Community Market for family fun: 4 to 8 p.m. at Gazebo Park in Blairmore. Featuring live entertainment, handmade items, fresh produce, baking and more. www.crowsnestmarket.com.

Friday, July 21 – Pickleball: 2 to 4 p.m. at MCC Arena in

Pincher Creek.

– Boredom Busters summer camp: 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. for kids 5 to 11 years. Contact Pincher Creek recreation office for registration and information, 403-627-4322.

Saturday, July, 22 –Beers to You: experience the art of craft beer with Andrew Hilton from 5 to 11 p.m. at Kootenai Brown Pioneer Village in Pincher Creek.

Monday, July 24 – Pickleball: 2 to 4 p.m. at MCC Arena in Pincher Creek.

Tuesday, July 25 – Mindful Meditation: 8 to 9 a.m. at Cenotaph Park in Pincher Creek.

– Pincher Creek Family Centre Play in the Park: 10 to 11:30 a.m. at Central School Playground in Pincher Creek.

– Boredom Busters summer camp: 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. for kids 5 to 11 years. Contact Pincher Creek recreation office for registration and information, 403-627-4322.

Wednesday, July 26 – Kickball: 6:30 to 8 p.m. at Lions Park in Pincher Creek.

– Pickleball: 2 to 4 p.m. at MCC Arena in Pincher Creek.

– TD Summer Reading Club at Pincher Creek library. 10:30 a.m. to noon for children entering grades 1 and 2, 1:30 to 3 p.m. for children entering grades 3 to 5.

Garage Sale Listings See Page 3 – Pincher Creek Family Centre Out and About: 10 to 11:30 a.m. at Kootenai Brown Pioneer Village in Pincher Creek.

Thursday, July 27 – Visit Crowsnest Community Market for family fun: 4 to 8 p.m. at Gazebo Park in Blairmore. Featuring live entertainment, handmade items, fresh produce, baking and more. www.crowsnestmarket.com.

– Mindful Meditation: 8 to 9 a.m. at Cenotaph Park in Pincher Creek.

Friday, July 28 – Pickleball: 2 to 4 p.m. at MCC Arena in Pincher Creek.

– Boredom Busters summer camp: 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. for kids 5 to 11 years. Contact Pincher Creek recreation office for registration and information, 403-627-4322.

– Outside karate for ages 6 to 18 with Sensei Peter: 11 a.m. to noon at Pincher Creek library.

August 21 to 24 – Turning Pointe Dance Studio summer camp in Crowsnest Pass. Phone 403-5627730 or see www.turningpointedance.ca.

August 28 to 30 – Turning Pointe Dance Studio summer camp in Pincher Creek. Phone 403-5627730 or see www.turningpointedance.ca.

Listings cost $10 (per week) and include up to 25 words. Additional words are 15 cents each.

Consecutive weeks, without changes, are half price. Listings are complimentary for events also promoted with display ads.

Email your event to office@shootinthebreeze.ca or call 403-904-2227 Deadline is Thursday prior to publication at noon

Page 12

Shootin’ the Breeze

July 12, 2017

Distributed weekly to Town and MD of Pincher Creek, Crowsnest Pass, Brocket, Hill Spring and Glenwood

Talking Around Town

Crowsnest Pass Photo Contest

With Tyler Ryan Tyler is the summer intern with Shootin’ the Breeze and a born-and-raised Albertan, originally from Calgary

oPen to all ages and levels

ENTRY DEADLINE IS SUNDAY, JULY 16 Winners will be announced August 1 Entries will be displayed at Crowsnest Pass Public Art Gallery August 1 to 27, with voting for a $50 people’s choice award.

Winning submissions will be published in Shootin’ the Breeze.

CATEGORIES – Crowsnest Pass People Crowsnest Pass Scenery Crowsnest Pass Wildlife Crowsnest Pass Heritage Images must be 8 x 10” and unmounted

$5 entry fee per photo Please pay entry fees by cash or cheque made out to Shootin’ the Breeze Number of placings and amount of prize money is based on entry fees received in each category

Drop entries off at Crowsnest Pass Public Art Gallery in Frank or Shootin’ the Breeze in Pincher Creek

Contest rules • Photo must be an original work created solely by the entrant.

• The entrant must be a Canadian resident.

• Photos must have been taken within two years of the entry date, and may not previously have won any awards.

• Prints may be in colour or in black and white, sized to 8 x 10”.

• Attach the entry form below to the back.

• Photocopies of the form are acceptable and extra copies are available from Shootin’ the Breeze or Crowsnest Pass Public Art Gallery if entering multiple photos.

• No name or logo identifying the photographer may be visible on the face of the photo.

• Images may not contain obscene, provocative, defamatory, sexually explicit, objectionable or inappropriate content.

• Consent must be given by people protrayed as

the subject of any photo.

• There is no limit to the number of entries per person. Entry fee is $5 per photo and each photo must have its own entry form.

• Fees are accepted by cash or cheque made out to Shootin’ the Breeze.

• Judging criteria include originality and creativity, relevance to category theme and composition.

• The decisions of the judges are final and winners will be notified by phone or email on Aug. 1, 2017.

• Cash prizes will be awarded for each category based on the number of entrants – 100 per cent of entry fees will be paid out. The number of placings and amount of prize money will be determined by the number of entries in each category.

• By submitting this entry, the photographer agrees to abide by contest rules and consents to allow Shootin’ the Breeze to publish the photo should it be chosen as a contest winner.

entry Form Name: Address: Email: Daytime and Cellphone: Category (People, Scenery, Wildlife, Heritage): Photo Title: I have read, understand and agree to abide by contest rules above.

Signature:

Date:

COMPLETE THIS SECTION ONLY IF PHOTO SUBJECT IS A PERSON I consent to the use of my name, portrait, picture or photograph in the 2017 Crowsnest Pass Photo Contest, as well as in the publication Shootin’ the Breeze both in print and online. The intended use of this image is to showcase entries and winners in the contest mentioned above. Photos may also be used at times when a suitable companion to an article. Credit will always be given to the photographer and the photographer maintains the copyright for this image. Shootin’ the Breeze will never use the photograph in any obscene, provocative, defamatory, sexually explicit, objectionable or inappropriate manner.

Signature: Phone:

Date:

I am an adult signing on behalf of a minor. Relationship to child: ATTACH AN ENTRY FORM TO THE BACK OF EACH PHOTO SUBMISSION

QUESTIONS? Please call Krisztina at 403-562-2218 or Shannon at 403-904-2227 Photos, accompanied by entry fees, can be dropped off at Shootin’ the Breeze – 697A Main Street, Pincher Creek or Crowsnest Pass Public Art Gallery – Hwy 3, Frank

On Friday, I covered a story about Angels Within Us receiving a cheque from the Pincher Creek Elks. This was also the first time I met Ellie Weisshaar and her parents, Lachlan Rempel and Kirk Weisshaar.

For a bit of backstory, Angels Within Us and the Elks, along with many other organizations and individuals, raised enough money to purchase a special van for Ellie and her family.

After snapping a couple of photos, chatting with those gathered, and marvelling at how some of the Elks came dressed in their full regalia in the scorching heat, the presentation wrapped up and everyone retreated from the sun.

I took the long way home that night.

As I thought about Ellie’s story and weaved through the neighbourhoods of Pincher Creek, my memory took me back to junior high and a boy named Connor Tasker.

It was my first day of Grade 7 when I met Connor.

My homeroom teacher, Mrs. Case, was in the middle of roll call, and, right as she was about to call my name, Connor stomped into the classroom.

“Oh, hello Connor,” she said with a smile.

A man who looked like Dog the Bounty Hunter and wore a Dog the Bounty Hunter shirt followed Connor into the classroom.

“Hi there, Mr. Scott,” Mrs. Case said to the man.

“Can you please show Connor where his seat is?” she added, pointing to the desk directly behind me.

As Connor stomped to his desk and took his seat — I’m not trying to be mean, he seriously had very heavy footfalls — he swiped one of the whiteboard markers and started drawing on the board beside us.

“Ryan Tyler?” Mrs. Case called out as the marker squealed on the board behind me.

“Here,” I said. “And my first name is Tyler, not Ryan” — but she had gone on to the next person.

My classmates and I got to know Connor better throughout the school year. He had a pretty severe case of Down syndrome but he could count to 10, say his ABCs, and sometimes string short sentences together.

He also loved orange juice.

During the year, some students spent part of the afternoon reading to Connor or helping him with his counting. I too spent a few afternoons with Connor, reading Dr. Seuss books to him. I could tell he was really into the story because he would laugh uncontrollably and point at the pictures.

Fast-forward to Grade 9 and all of the “graduating” students had to go on a day-long retreat in nature. I don’t remember exactly where it was but it was outside of Calgary, heading into the Bragg Creek area.

While there, one activity made us calculate how much we each spent in a month.

Personally, my allowance went towards pizza, candy, books and the occasional video game, and many of my friends were the same. We were all pretty frugal (or just kids without much of a disposable income) and the average was pretty low.

Connor and his dad were with our group. When it was Connor’s turn, Mr. Tasker didn’t skip a beat and said, “Just go ahead and put down $10,000 a month.”

Everyone around the table just gawked at one another but we all had the same thought in our heads.

“Wow, I had no idea,” my friend Giovanni Quartararo said after we wrapped up the activity, confirming what we were all thinking.

As I pulled into the driveway, I kept replaying that memory.

Ten thousand a month. That’s more than I paid for my car. That’s about a full year of university tuition.

It would have taken me about six months full time at the bookstore I used to work at to raise that kind of money.

I switched off the car and fumbled around for the piece of paper Charles Price from the Pincher Creek Elks gave me during the cheque presentation.

The cost of Ellie’s van was just over $32,000, according to the document. In addition to the van, I’m sure there are many other costs Ellie’s parents incur that I won’t try and describe.

I don’t know how much support Connor got from the community and it’s not my place to speculate.

But what I will say is that if what I saw last Friday is any indication of the future, then Ellie will be in good hands.

Maybe the name Angels Within Us should be changed to Heroes Among Us. But then again, maybe that wouldn’t be fair because everyone who helped out is a hero in their own way.

Distributed weekly to Town and MD of Pincher Creek, Crowsnest Pass, Brocket, Hill Spring and Glenwood

Shootin’ the Breeze

July 12, 2017

Page 13

Pass pool officially opens for business The community outdoor pool in Blairmore officially opened on Sunday after 10 months of construction.

Mayor Blair Painter was there to cut the ceremonial red ribbon, flanked by councillors Doreen Glavin, left, and Marlene Anctil.

The pool was scheduled to open on July 2, but more time was needed for finishing touches. The main building will also receive a makeover, with renovations starting in the fall. The entire pool project is budgeted at $1.5 million.

“This is a real plus for the Crowsnest Pass,” Coun. Anctil said.

Photo by Tyler Ryan

We are honoured to have covered southern alberta since 2011 and look forward to many years of continued service to the community

We are proudly canadian!

DID YOU MISS OUR CANADA 150 SPECIAL EDITION? A limited number are available from our office!

Watch for the enhanced online edition available after July 25. It’s not to late to submit photos and/or stories!

Business Directory Sand, gravel, landscaping rock, grader, dozer, skidsteer, mini excavator Shop: 403-627-4361 Cell: 403-627-7615

Trucking Ltd.

lucas@sorgetrucking.ca www.sorgetrucking.ca

Lucas Sorge

P.O. Box 684 | 1176 Big Horn Avenue | Pincher Creek, AB T0K 1W0

Gee’s Electric Inc. Wade Giesbrecht – Owner/Operator 403-627-9258 geeselectric@gmail.com Box 1001, Pincher Creek, AB T0K 1W0

Electrical Supplies Sales Counter

Quality FLOORING installations TILE • LAMINATE • HARDWOOD 25 years experience

403-627-8318

Best prices guaranteed

Dave

403-627-2691

• General Contracting • Project Management • Commercial and Residential • ICF SUPERform • Concrete Work “Our Reputation is Building!” • Renovations

Call: 403-627-2242

• Residential • Commercial • Farm • Cell Phone Boosters • Maintenance • Generators: GENERAC & KOHLER

Toll Free: 1-855-627-2242 | Fax: 403-627-5652

1373A Hunter Street Pincher Creek www.ritelineelectric.com

info@avalanchecontracting.com 1130 Macleod Street, Pincher Creek www.avalanchecontracting.com

403-627-5756

Residential and Commercial Goods and Services

Window & Door Installation Call Rick or Richelle 403-317-4115

INFO@FORTMACLEODGLASS.COM

Your New Home and Renovation Specialists • General Contracting • Solar • Septic • Project Management • Asbestos Abatement

Contact Justin Ames at 403-563-8395 jabuildingservices@hotmail.com www.jabs-ca.com

ON LOCATION

STORAGE

Road Building • Site Prep • General Excavation • Dozer Work • Land Clearing Contract Pricing or Hourly Work Free Estimates Current C.S.T.S. and First Aid

David Froese 403-432-0344 Visit our website: grayrockcontracting.com

403-627-5356 or 403-627-9256

CONTAINER RENTALS

albertaportablebuildings.com

403-904-2227

“Your junk is our treasure”

• • • • • • •

40, 23, 12 yard roll-off bins 6, 4, 3, 2 yard dumpsters Bear-proof dumpsters Porta-potty rentals Security fencing rentals Septic services Hotshot/picker crane service

CALL NOW FOR ALL YOUR SEPTIC NEEDS • Commercial • Residential • Industrial • Farm

ads@shootinthebreeze.ca

Office: 403-627-2242

info@southwestwaste.ca

Cell: 403-627-3585

www.southwestwaste.ca

BOBCAT SERVICE LTD. • Certified Septic Design & Installation • Rubber Track Mini Hoe • Track Hoe & Dozer • Demolition • Chain-Link Fencing

• • • • • •

Acreage Development Civil Work & Site Prep Laser-Guided Equipment General Excavation Weeping Tile & Drainage Top Soil & Gravel

PINC HER CREEK 403-627-5991 403-627-9188 CELL

NOW OFFERING THE FOLLOWING SERVICES GENERATORS

SOLAR

• Service • Sales • Installation service@ritelineelectric.com

• Design • Sales • Installation – Residential, Commercial, Off Grid, Grid Tie solar@ritelineelectric.com

1373A Hunter Street Pincher Creek 403-627-5756

Page 14

Shootin’ the Breeze

Distributed weekly to Town and MD of Pincher Creek, Crowsnest Pass, Brocket, Hill Spring and Glenwood

July 12, 2017

Final payment made on Ellie’s van

By Tyler Ryan With the sun still blazing in the evening sky, the Pincher Creek Elks were dressed in their best Friday to present a cheque to Kevin Parkin of Angels Within Us — reimbursement for a large contribution toward a specially equipped van for Ellie Weisshaar.

Elks treasurer Charles Price says Angels Within Us had initially stepped up and donated $4,500 to help buy a Dodge Caravan fitted with a lift for Ellie’s wheelchair.

“Angels Within Us fronted the money to buy the van, so that [the family] could get the van and get the lift installed,” Charles says.

The Elks then began working toward reimbursing Angels Within Us. Ellie has a rare genetic disease, 15q13.3 microduplication syndrome, and is unable to walk due to insufficient muscle tone and issues with her hips.

Ellie and her family needed a modified van to accommodate her wheelchair.

With help from the Elks, Angels Within Us, Ricky Ryp Foundation, Rotary Club of Pincher Creek, Chinook Spitzie Masonic Lodge, Pincher Creek Legion, Pincher Creek and Cowley Roaring Lions, Pincher Creek Lions Club

Photo by Tyler Ryan

Pincher Creek Elks present a $4,500 cheque to Angels Within Us. From left are Lachlan Rempel and Kirk Weisshaar with daughter Ellie in front, Kevin Parkin with Angels, and Elks members Ken Kitigawa, Rick Clark, Elsie Neumann, Ken Neumann, Bruce Baker, Charles Price and Edi Clark.

and all who supported the fundraising efforts, Ellie was able to get a new ride.

Lachlan Rempel and Kirk Weisshaar are very grateful to everyone in the community who helped make their daughter’s van a reality.

“Kirk and Ellie and I are more than thankful for the Elks and everyone who has been involved from start to finish,” Lachlan says.

“It’s been a long process but we’re happy that we’ve raised the whole amount.”

The Pincher Creek Elks set up two 50-50 raffles to raise a portion of the money needed, and

requested additional support from the Alberta Elks Association.

In the end, the Alberta Elks matched the local Elks donation of $4,500.

Both Jim Duncan and Craig Jensen, winners of the 50-50 raffles, donated a sum of their winnings to help with the purchase of the van.

Including purchase and installation of the wheelchair lift, Ellie’s vehicle cost just over $32,000.

For Ellie, Kirk and Lachlan, it is more than just a van.

“It’s a lifesaver for sure,” Lachlan says.

CLASSIFIEDS Local classifieds appear in bold text, ahead of the blanket classified ads. Weekly local ad rate is $10 for up to 25 words, additional words 15 cents each. Ads are charged at half price for consecutive weeks running without changes. To place your ad call 403-904-2227 or send an email to office@shootinthebreeze.ca.

CAREER TRAINING ALL MUSIC EDUCATORS take note: 23rd International Kodaly Symposium - August 8-13, 2017 at the Augustana Campus, UofA, Camrose, Alberta. Register Now! www.kodalysymposium2017. com EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITIES BLANKET THE PROVINCE with a classified ad.

Only $269 (based on 25 words or less). Reach over 110 weekly newspapers. Call NOW for details 1-800-282-6903 ext 228; www.awna.com.

DOZER & EXCAVATOR Operators needed. Oilfield experience an asset. Room & board paid. H2S, First Aid, clean DL. Call 780-723-5051, Edson, Alberta.

SEEKING A CAREER in the Community Newspaper business? Post your resume for FREE right where the publishers are looking. Visit: awna. com/for-job-seekers.

FREIGHTLAND CARRIERS, a tri-axle air ride flatdeck carrier is looking for Owner/Operators to run Alberta only or 4 Western Provinces. Must

have own plates, insurance & WCB. 1-800-9179021. Email: ed@freightland.ca.

INTERIOR HEAVY EQUIPMENT SCHOOL. HandsOn Training. Funding & housing options available. Employment assistance for life. Find out what makes IHE the industry leader, call 1-866399-3853 or visit www.IHESCHOOL.com.

MEDICAL TRANSCRIPTION! In-demand career!

Employers have work-at-home positions available. Get online training you need from an employer-trusted program. Visit: CareerStep.ca/ MT or 1-855-768-3362 to start training for your work-at-home career today!

Full Time Reporter for weekly newspaper in Viking (130km from Edmonton). Previous experience, Quark, Photoshop knowledge required.

Office, iMac, camera provided. Email eric@cariboupublishing.ca

HOUSEKEEPERS, COOKS AND SERVERS Wage is dependent on experience We offer ... * competitive wages * on-duty meal allowances * plus many more benefits

Phone 403-627-5000 or come to the front desk for information

919 Waterton Ave.

Pincher Creek

SAWMILLS from only $4,397 - Make Money & save money with your own bandmill. Cut lumber any dimension. In stock ready to ship. Free info & DVD: www.NorwoodSawmills.com/400OT. 1-800-566-6899 ext: 400OT. HEALTH CANADA BENEFIT GROUP - Attention Alberta residents: Do you suffer from a disability? Get up to $40,000 from the Canadian Government. Toll free 1-888-511-2250 or http://start. canadabenefit.ca/alberta/ NOTICES

HEATED CANOLA buying Green, Heated or Springthrashed Canola. Buying: oats, barley, wheat & peas for feed. Buying damaged or offgrade grain. “On Farm Pickup” Westcan Feed & Grain, 1-877-250-5252.

Thinking of Relocating? Call The Municipality of Pembina Home! Located in South Central Manitoba, we welcome you to our warm and safe community.

Raise your family here - retire here. Affordable Housing - Low taxes. Great Amenities -local shopping, education, health care, indoor and outdoor sports & recreation, culture & arts.

Short drive to many employment opportunities. Live HereGrow Here - Play Here! Check us out at www.pembina.ca

FOR SALE

SERVICES

Full Time Reporter for weekly newspaper in Tofield (65km from Edmonton). Previous experience, Quark, Photoshop knowledge required.

Office, iMac, camera provided. Email eric@cariboupublishing.ca FEED AND SEED

METAL

is currently looking for

available at over 55 Distributors. 40 year warranty. 48 hour Express Service available at select supporting Distributors. Call 1-888-263-8254.

ROOFING

&

SIDING.

37+

colours

CRIMINAL RECORD? Why suf-

3” wide version

e squeethezmost out of your advertising dollars Place your ad in this newspaper 12345 wide and province $ with a combined circulation of over 800,000 for only...

995 plus GST/HST

Value Ad Network Alberta Weekly Newspapers Association toll free 1-800-282-6903 x228 email andrea@awna.com or visit this community newspaper

fer employment/licensing loss? Travel/business opportunities? Be embarrassed? Think: Criminal Pardon. US entry waiver. Record purge. File destruction. Free consultation 1-800-347-2540; www.accesslegalresearchinc.net.

GET BACK ON TRACK! Bad credit? Bills? Unemployed? Need Money? We Lend! If you own your own home - you qualify. Pioneer Acceptance Corp. Member BBB. 1-877-987-1420. www.pioneerwest.com.

Distributed weekly to Town and MD of Pincher Creek, Crowsnest Pass, Brocket, Hill Spring and Glenwood

July 12, 2017

Shootin’ the Breeze

Page 15

Kathy Allsop Memorial Golf Tournament

Thanks You! Sincere thanks to everyone who helped to make our 2017 Kathy Allsop Memorial Golf Tournament such a success!

Burrows Building Corp.

Teck

Dr. J. Maritz

A&B Liquor Store

Janne Aikins

Servus Credit Union

Art Ellwein

Crowsnest Medical Clinic Westcastle Motors and Castle Ford

Kathy & Dick Koentges

Davis Dodge

Crowsnest Pass Golf Course

Harold Kind

Crowsnest Dental

Kanata

Caber Logging

Chris’ Restaurant

Telus

Greg’s Liquor & Cold Beer

Crowsnest Insurance Agencies

Logomotives

Dwyer Construction

Lethbridge Casino

3 Rivers Rentals

Crowsnest Angler

Riversdale Resources

The Old Dairy Ice Cream Shoppe

Royal Bank

Spray Lakes Sawmills Coleman Lions

5-Rivers Pizza

Randy Rinaldi Welding Ltd.

Allied Tru Hardware

Mountain Ink

Blairmore IGA

Vyk Harnett – CNPTech

Bamboo Bistro and Black Rock Pizza

Burmis Bed & Bales Drain Brothers Construction Ltd.

Peter Amundsen Photography

Dr. Allan Garbutt Professional Corp.

Adanac Adventures

Robin & Co. Chartered Accountant

Joanne Liddell

Karen Taminga-Paton Darren Gierulski Artist’s Touch

John Pundyk, Royal LePage

Pharmasave

Rocky Mountain Optometry

Bonnie Linderman

Stone’s Throw Café

Rose Peddler

North & Company LLP

Sparwood Golf Club

Morency Plumbing

Heather Fletcher

Nestor & Willie Chorney

Rum Runner

Pat Rypien

Ken Roome

Trotz Brothers Holdings Ltd.

Heather Kennedy

Thank you to the golfers who joined us for the day and a special thank you to all the volunteers who helped out.

Also, thanks to the Crowsnest Pass Golf and Country Club and the clubhouse for the great meal.

See you in June 2018!

Photo by Tyler Ryan

From Left, Pincher Creek councillor Doug Thornton, Mayor Don Anderberg, Crestview Lodge manager Millie Loeffler, Reeve Brian Hammon from the MD of Pincher Creek and Sahra Nodge, who chairs the Pincher Creek Foundation, gathered for a presentation of cheques that will aid in the construction of the new Crestview Lodge.

Crestview Lodge receives capital funding boost

By Tyler Ryan Residents of Crestview Lodge have another reason to smile because they may be able to move into their new homes sooner than expected thanks to a series of cheques presented to the lodge.

Pincher Creek Mayor Don Anderberg, town councillor Doug Thornton and Reeve Brian Hammond from the MD of Pincher Creek recently presented three cheques to Millie Loeffler, manager of Crestview Lodge.

“The town of Pincher Creek and the MD of Pincher Creek each committed $1.3 million towards this capital construction,” Coun. Thornton said. He added that the Village of Cowley also contributed $20,000.

Ms. Loeffler said an addi-

tional $600,000 was provided by the Pincher Creek Foundation to assist in the completion of the new lodge.

Coun. Thornton said that in order for Crestview Lodge to receive any federal or provincial funding, the three councils needed to use money from their own reserves to spur on the other levels of government.

Just prior to the last provincial election, the federal and provincial governments finally agreed to combine their funding and provide $9.8 million dollars to the project.

Some of the money will be used to complete the building and hopefully the new facility will be open by Aug. 22.

Once the new building for Crestview Lodge is completed, the old building will be

torn down. A portion of the money that was given by all levels of government has been earmarked for demolition.

The new building’s 50 rooms will be much larger than those in the old lodge.

Ms. Loeffler said the entire building will be at least twice the size of the old lodge.

There will also be more spaces that are barrier-free, to help accommodate wheelchairs and ambulance gurneys.

Ms. Loeffler said there will be various green spaces on the second level of the new lodge and residents will be able to tend to flower and vegetable gardens if they wish.

“It would actually be a pretty good place to come and live,” said the mayor.

Business Directory Artist’s Touch Fine Art Gallery * Photography * Custom Picture Framing Commission Artwork * Art Consulting * Interior Design * Photo Restoration

Donna Bilyk, BFA, MFA

Owner/Artist

587-220-4457 artisttouchdonna@gmail.com 7819 17th Avenue Coleman

www.inspiris.ca 403-627-2922

• Lenovo Laptops and Desktops • MS Office Software • AVG Antivirus • Remote Support

Ranchland Mall

Pincher Creek

Naked Windows?

Let us dress them!

Cheri Bobyk 403-627-4782 www.nakedwindows.ca

Fantin’s Funeral Chapel 1-877-896-8555 13461 – 20 Ave. Blairmore www.fantinsfuneralchapel.ca

Recipient of “Excellence in Customer Service Awards”

Pincher Creek Eye Clinic Dr. Bart Anderson

Dr. Laura Chisholm

403-627-2930 761 Main Street Pincher Creek

Professional and Specialty Services Honouring Life’s Memories . . .

Eden’s Funeral Home

A division of Caringroup

403-627-3131 Box 924, 966 Elm St., Pincher Creek, AB

www.edensfuneralhome.com

Dennis Novak

NEED A LIFT?

Care Bears can provide transportation to medical appointments in Pincher Creek, Lethbridge and Calgary.

Call 403-339-CARE

Monday to Thursday, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Book your directory ad today!

Contact Jessica at 403-904-2227 ads@shootinthebreeze.ca

mr-b Computer Services

Mobile computer lab serving southwestern Alberta Computers • Networking • Websites Call for a free consultation

403-795-9750

www.mr-b.ca

Shawn Kyllo

MARTHA PARIDAEN

HOME on the Range

REALTOR® LEED Green Associate

403-628-2355 martha@realestatecentre.ca crowsnestrealestatecentre.com

Page 16

Shootin’ the Breeze

July 12, 2017

Distributed weekly to Town and MD of Pincher Creek, Crowsnest Pass, Brocket, Hill Spring and Glenwood

The annual walk is held in memory of Darcy Rinaldi and Kelly Rinaldi

Darcy’s Nature Walk for Mental Wellness is Celebrating 10 Years of Increasing Awareness Surrounding Mental Health and Wellness, Increasing Physical Activity Levels and Raising Funds for Local Mental Health Initiatives

With the support of local businesses, organizations and individuals, the 2017 event raised $11,000 SPECIAL THANKS TO BLAIRMORE LIONS CLUB, COLEMAN LIONS CLUB AND CARMEN PRION-FRANK! Thank you to the 400 people who took part in this year’s anniversary event and to all volunteers, prize donors and in-kind contributors. Darcy’s Nature Walk would not be possible without your support!

A&B Liquor

CNP Fire Rescue

Heather Kennedy

Mary Lammirato

Rum Runner

A-1 Pizza

IGA Blairmore

Melissa Tiagen

Sears – Anita Ferguson

Allied Tru Hardware

CNP Health Foundation

James McKenzie

Artist’s Touch

Copy Magic

Jan Aikins

Mike Aleskow – Muddy Mouse Pottery

Shelley & Tynan Groves

Ashley Thompson

Cori Ploscz

Jasmine Qureshi

Monika Guild

Shirley & Gary Enzsol

Backstage Hair Studio

Crockets Trading Company

Jennifer Blair

Monique Hunkler

Side Trax Diner

Jill Metcalfe

Mountain Ink

Sinistra Salon

Crow Signs & Embroidery

Jill Salus

Mountain Radio

Shootin’ the Breeze

Crowsnest Angler

Joan Koinberg

Nathalie Kiernan

Crowsnest Coffee

Jody Campbell

Crowsnest Dental

Joe Fortanazo

Old Dairy Ice Cream Shoppe

SpringBreak Flower Farm

Debbi & Larry Ruzek

John Dodsley

Denise & Rob Amatto

Judith Parson

Don Harvey

Karen Taminga-Paton

Fernie Fish Sticks

Kinga’s Hair Shop

Bonny & Brian Linderman

Fiona Youden

Launstein Imagery

Bamboo Bistro and Black Rock Pizza Barb Pollice Becky & Jerry Rinaldi Becky Giesler

Spry

Pass Beverages

Stone’s Throw

Peter Amundsen

Subway

Pharmasave

Sue Weikert

Pincher Creek Pottery

Summit Home Centre

Pinecones & Coal

The Bargain! Shop

Pure Country Bar & Grill

The Health Hub

Five Rivers Pizza

Lens on Nature

Border Building Supplies

Gary Carpenter Woodworking

Limber Pine Smokehouse

Rachel Newrick

Top Gunn Automotive

Bound for Mountain Photography

Goosen Plumbing & Heating

Linda & Larry Pedersen

Racian Glass Art

Trent Enzsol

Randy Rinaldi Welding

Brian Vanderlinden

Livia Young – Chopped Leaf

Turtle Mountain Pharmacy

Chris’ Restaurant

Greg’s Cold Beer & Liquor Store

Reimer Construction Remedy’s Rx

Vito’s Restaurant

Cindi Bradley

Headlines

Marie’s Poutine House Mary Filipuzzi

Willie & Nestor Chorney

Cinnamon Bear

Heather Fletcher

Rocky Mountain Optometry Rose Peddler

Yvette Penman

Bellevue Legion Ben Montgomery Ben Wongs Blairmore Forestry Department

Tina Wilham

Thanks to all who took part in this special day!

Over the last few years, mental illnesses have received increased publicity. However, there is still a heavy stigma associated with mental illness.

Many people do not seek help when experiencing symptoms because of the shame, discrimination or unsupportive/uneducated support resources.

Darcy’s Nature Walk for Mental Wellness is a way of raising awareness about these illnesses and offering a venue for people to start talking about mental health issues.