Shootin' the Breeze – Jan. 17, 2018

January 17, 2018 Year 7, Issue 19

A weekly breath of fresh air!

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Welcome, Annabelle

Annabelle Renée Bruder was welcomed as the first baby of the new year at Pincher Creek Health Centre. She was born Jan. 3 at 9:30 a.m. to proud parents Cam and Katheryne Bruder of Twin Butte. Annabelle weighed eight pounds seven ounces and is the Bruders’ first child. In the background is a quilt from the Pincher Creek Quilters Guild. The group creates special blankets each year for the Christmas and New Year’s babies.

Photo by Georgia Dale

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Page 2

Shootin’ the Breeze

January 17, 2018

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

Community patrols assist police

By Jessica Buhler Citizens on Patrol began in Pincher Creek in 1997 and has helped keep the community safe and informed since then. In 2010, volunteers from the MD of Pincher Creek, Cowley and rural areas came on board and later the group name was changed to Pincher Creek District COP. Since its inception, the group’s purpose has been to deter vandalism and other criminal activity in our communities.

Robyn Dowson, the local president, has participated since 2010 in the group, which now has 22 members.

The mission statement of all the Alberta COP groups is: We are the extended eyes and ears for our local law enforcement agency.

“We are out there observing, and if something seems suspicious, or off, we call either the officer on duty, or to dispatch,” says Robyn.

“If you ever watch NCIS, with Gibbs always going with his gut, a lot of us do that too. Many of our patrollers notice little things.”

“For example,” she says, “that light is always on and now it’s off.

The gate to the business is always closed or locked and now it’s open, and there aren’t lights or vehicles around the premises. Or there is a vehicle parked by a business and no one is around.”

When suspicious activity is noticed, “We drive a safe distance

away, but near enough to observe ... call the officers and wait for them to come and check it out,” she says.

“If we see someone run out and get into a vehicle, we try to get as much detail as we can. Vehicle colour, make, model, licence plate number is very useful, and what the person was wearing. Pictures are worth a thousand words as well.”

Citizens on Patrol can follow at a safe distance after informing the RCMP, but once the officers are on-scene, the COP members turn around and continue their patrols.

“What happens from then on is not our business, but officers may later ask us for any info we have written down,” says Robyn.

During one patrol at a car dealership, “members observed a vehicle parked across the road from it with three occupants, who slouched down when our members drove past,” she says.

“The members were immediately suspicious and drove on to a safe distance and called it in. Within three minutes, two patrol cars were on-scene.”

COP members also leave cards in business doors and have found numerous doors left unlocked. In fact, at one business the keys were found left in the lock.

“We will write on the back of [the card] if we’ve observed something like a window left open. We also put the time and

Citizens on Patrol member Kimberly Hurst assists RCMP with a pre-Christmas

Photo by Brenda Shenton checkstop in Pincher Creek.

date the door was carded,” Robyn says.

“We’ve had a lot of favourable responses from businesses over the years and they’re especially grateful if we’ve found their business door unlocked.”

If you are interested in helping to keep your community safe, COP is always looking for new members. Your commitment would be patrolling once every two months, for a minimum of three hours. Meetings are held every two months at Lundbreck Community Hall.

The first step for anyone interested is to contact the group either through Facebook or by email at pinchercreekcop@ gmail.com. The next step is to complete a criminal record check application at the RCMP detachment and provide two

forms of identification.

Upon receiving the results, after about a week, interested parties meet for an interview with Robyn and her husband, George, who is a director on the Alberta Citizens on Patrol Association board.

After a signed membership form is filed at the RCMP detachment, the person receives about three hours of training using an ACOPA manual. The person then goes out on patrol with an experienced patroller, and when ready can go out with other members. Two members always patrol together.

“We are the extra eyes and ears for the RCMP, but we are by no means RCMP officers,” says Robyn. “This means we cannot See CITIZENS ON PATROL,

continued on page 3

G

YOUR LOCAL GROW TEAM Pincher Creek Co-op is proud to introduce its new Grow Team: Jason Bruns – Agro Manager Abby Zur – Agro Clerk Britnie Zur – Agro Clerk Barb Shenton – Agro Specialist Jim Peace – General Manager

Pincher Creek Growing Our Communities

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

Pass emergency workers lead the way to successful backcountry rescue

By Shannon Robison Crowsnest Pass Fire/Rescue led search-and-rescue efforts when a snowmobiler was reported missing on Jan. 7.

A group of four were recreating in the Tent Mountain area near the Alberta-British Columbia border when contact was lost with one of the riders after he became separated from the group.

The person in trouble, a male in his early 40s, was from the Lethbridge area. He was riding a snow bike — a dirt bike with a ski on front and a snowmobile track on back.

Fire Chief Jesse Fox says the man purposely rode down an embankment around 6:30 p.m. and the rest of the group lost contact with and sight of him.

He says RCMP were contacted around 9 p.m., with Fire/Rescue formally contacted at midnight.

A search-and-rescue operation was activated at this time.

“Up until that point, they were hoping the missing person would walk out,” Chief Fox says.

“There was no active searching going on for this person at that time.”

Thirteen members of Fire/ Rescue were involved in the operation. They met with RCMP and developed a plan.

Three trained and qualified personnel were sent out in a side-by-side to search the backcountry in the dark.

“It was a very complicated search procedure because it was the middle of the night and it was pitch black out, and they were in a high-risk location with an avalanche threat,” Chief Fox

says.

Having no contact with the missing person, nothing was pinpointed and searchers had only a rough idea of where to look in the hazardous darkness.

“There was a lot of involvement from supporting agencies in this challenging operation,” says Chief Fox. This included assistance from RCMP, Pincher Creek Search and Rescue, Sparwood Search and Rescue and members of the CrowSnow Riders.

Searchers worked through the night and a helicopter was ordered to enhance efforts in the morning.

When daylight broke at 8:33, air support from Sparwood Search and Rescue did a flyover of the rider’s last known location and found him.

Chief Fox says the man was underneath his snow bike and it was determined he had been involved in a Type 1 avalanche (the lowest level of avalanche).

“He was in good condition, but just cold,” Chief Fox says.

“He got a lucky day for it, being plus 3.”

“It was a good-news story for us,” he adds. “It was a successful operation where we had a good outcome, where none of our people got hurt.

“It proves the need for people to be prepared and know what to do if something goes wrong if they want to recreate in our backcountry.”

To find detailed conditions, avalanche warnings and other backcountry resources, visit www.avalanche.ca.

CITIZENS ON PATROL, continued from page 2 apprehend or arrest anyone, and we do not carry guns. Personal safety of our members is of utmost concern.”

The local Citizens on Patrol group is one of 72 in Alberta, with over 20 new groups forming in the last couple years since the economic downturn.

“People are tired of the break-ins, stolen vehicles and vandalism that seems to have reached an all-time high, and they want to take back their communities,” Robyn says.

“We’re also more respectful of what our local police have to deal with on a daily basis, and we enjoy working with and helping them whenever we can.”

The group’s liaison with Pincher Creek RCMP is Const.

Annie Starzynski. If there are any “hot spots” in the community, she or office staff will contact Robyn with the information, which will be passed on to COP members.

“In being closely involved with the detachment, we are sometimes told confidential information,” Robyn says. “This information is like the saying about Vegas. What happens in our group stays within our

group, and I cannot stress the confidential factor enough to our members.”

Involvement in Citizens on Patrol can be exciting, rewarding and informative. Robyn has learned much since beginning with COP and offers a few crimeprevention tips for community residents: — Always be aware of your surroundings, especially if you’re out at night.

— Leave an outside light on if you’re out after dark, or have a motion light installed by your garage and home doorways.

— Cut down any obscuring shrubs around your home; these make good hiding places for vandals.

— Always take your valuables out of your vehicle, or put them out of sight and lock it, especially if not parked in a garage. Never leave your keys in the vehicle.

Asked what the most enjoyable aspect of being a member is, Robyn replies, “The feeling that you’ve accomplished something worthwhile in trying to help keep your community and family as safe as possible.”

January 17, 2018

Shootin’ the Breeze

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Shootin’ the Breeze

January 17, 2018

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

Clockwise from top left: Impressive bucks in the archery category still have some spring velvet on their antlers; Ken Hildebrandt shares serious lessons learned in the heart and on the trapline; a European mounted moose in the rifle category; and Lindsey Paterson presents an award to Taylor Rice for his bighorn sheep in the archery category.

Photos by Georgia Dale

Willow Valley club holds 69th trophy day

By Georgia Dale Trucks lined the streets and mounts lined the walls of Pincher Creek Community Hall on Saturday as the Willow Valley Trophy Club celebrated its 69th annual trophy day.

Over 200 mounts were on display, and prizes were awarded for the best sportsmen and sportswomen in categories ranging from photography to biggame archery. People came out in droves to exhibit their impressive mounts and share stories about adventures in hunting, sustainability and conservation.

Ken Hildebrandt, the keynote speaker at the event, is a trapper from Crowsnest Pass. He shared stories about overcoming adverse

situations such as polio-related disability, injuries sustained on the trail and tragedies in the family. He talked about how hunting and trapping has sustained him through dark times and enabled him to enjoy the outdoors for a lifetime.

The club also took the time to discuss threats to the tradition of hunting, such as chronic wasting disease, which is an ailment much like hoof-and-mouth disease that is transmitted through cervid species. Studies show that the risk to humans from CWD could be greater than once thought, with transmissions proven between cervids and macaques, which are biologically similar to humans.

Emphasis is placed on

controlling the spread of CWD throughout North America so that game stocks can be preserved and the safety of hunters and their families can be ensured for future generations.

With dedication to future generations of game and hunters both, the Willow Valley Trophy Club always honours its youth members and encourages their participation in every category.

Speakers conveyed the perpetuation of the sportsperson is essential for conservancy and the tradition of hunting because an early introduction to the

Wear your jersey for the winter walk

By Georgia Dale Feb. 7 is Jersey Day in Pincher Creek — an opportunity for hockey fans to demonstrate their love of the game and vie for Kraft Hockeyville honours and prizes.

Hockeyville is a nationwide competition that has been held annually since 2006. Participants across the country share stories about their hockey-crazy communities and the events that make them unique.

The grand prize is $250,000 in arena upgrades and the opportunity to host an NHL pre-season game. Three other communities will each win $25,000 in upgrades.

Coun. Wayne Elliott is a hockey enthusiast and leader of the community’s participation in Hockeyville. He says Pincher Creek could use a few arena improvements, but that it’s less about winning and more about community pride.

Wayne says the positive feeling created by people getting together to celebrate their love of the game is “by far the greatest outcome” of Pincher Creek’s participation in Hockeyville.

Community spirit and counting our town’s blessings will be the name of the game this Jersey Day.

Our neighbours in Fernie, B.C., experienced a tragedy at their arena in October when an ammonia leak claimed the lives of three maintenance staff. Wayne believes Fernie should be a major contender for the grand prize, and we will wish them all the best, from one community to another.

In Pincher Creek, schools, clubs and individuals will don their jerseys at noon and get together for a walk along the creek trail, then share their photos under the hashtag #PincherCreekLovesHockey. After the walk there will be hot chocolate and cookies served at the swimming pool.

Residents can participate further by sharing pictures and personal stories about how hockey in the community has shaped their lives and given them awesome experiences, or by simply sharing why this community is the most wild for hockey, by visiting www.krafthockeyville. ca/#find_rink.

At right is Wayne Elliott, perhaps Pincher Creek’s most avid supporter of Kraft Hockeyville and Jersey Day. Photo by Brenda Shenton

outdoors often ensures a lifelong dedication and commitment to its preservation for future generations.

Youth members could enter any of the main categories in big game, fishing, game birds and photography, but two prizes in particular reflected the value that the club puts on young hunters.

These were a raffle where Justin Estalos won a $500 RESP, and the Savanna Koebisch Youth Huntress Award, which goes to one of the girls who enters any big game category. This year’s winner was Lauren Kunz.

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

January 17, 2018

Shootin’ the Breeze

Page 5

Brewery named new business of the year

Adam and Brittany Wilsgosh at the Pincher Creek Chamber of Commerce Awards of Excellence gala in October.

Photo by Shannon Robison

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space we have tried to create.”

The small-liquor manufacturing sector has been growing in the past few years.

“Most of the growth that has happened in the industry has occurred Calgary and north, so we have not seen much effect on the market that we are currently in,” she says. “We have not seen a change in competition since we have opened, but I am sure that won’t last for long.”

Since the birth of the Alberta Small Brewers Development Program, the number of producers has grown from 45 to almost 60.

E

12813 - 20 Ave, Blairmore

12750 - 19 Ave, Blairmore

Pass, along a major tourist highway, it seemed like a prime location.

“We wanted to grab the Lethbridge and Calgary tourist traffic that frequents our area and also passes us on their way to B.C.,” says Brittany.

Since opening their doors last summer, they have found their clientele to be diverse, usually between ages 30 and 65, from the surrounding area as well as travelling through from other parts of Alberta.

“We have a very supportive local crowd and, as we are still fairly new, we are always seeing new faces,” says Brittany. “We feel we have been well received by most people. Everyone seems to enjoy our staff and the relaxed

OU TO

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Photo by Tyler Ryan

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#12 6101 - 20 Ave, Coleman

Adam Wilgosh conducts a sneak-peek tour of Oldman River Brewery last spring when the business hosted a chamber of commerce mix and mingle.

RCHASED PU

the years, he moved from boxed beer to all-grain and eventually went to commercial brewing when he got a job at Olds College as an assistant brewer.

Through a shared love of fly fishing, Adam met Dan Christenen, who was intrigued by the idea of owning a brewery.

Together, Adam, Brittany and Dan decided to go all in and create Oldman River Brewing.

They were able to start moving forward with their venture after minimum production-capacity requirements for Alberta liquor manufacturers changed in 2013. They decided to open in Lundbreck because there were no other breweries within an hour’s radius, and it was close to home.

Because Lundbreck is central to Pincher Creek and Crowsnest

The Australia Day celebration is in aid of Jake, who has a very rare disease called Pelizaeus Merzbacher. We look forward to the community’s ongoing support in helping the kids who need it most.

RYONE WHO VE

By Jessica Buhler When Adam and Brittany Wilgosh travelled, they always enjoyed visiting new breweries and often talked of how they would love to bring new and interesting flavours to Alberta.

In October, Oldman River Brewing was named new business of the year at the Chamber of Commerce Awards of Excellence in Pincher Creek, proving that dreams can become reality.

“We felt very honoured to have won beside so many other extraordinary new businesses,” says Brittany. “It was great to know that people are enjoying what we are trying to create.”

It all began with a home brewing kit that Adam started about 10 years ago, which led him to fall in love with the craft. Over

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Shootin’ the Breeze

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

January 17, 2018

Thank You

My Little

CORNER

An editorial column

by Shannon Robison

Thank you for the many expressions of sympathy extended to our family upon the recent passing of our mother, grandmother and great-grandmother Rose Marie Johnson.

Thank you to Eden's Funeral Home for their assistance at this time.

Shootin’ the Breeze was started as a niche publication that contained positive stories and positive news only.

As a person who tends to view the world through rose-coloured glasses, this worked well for me. Feedback told us it also worked well for our readership.

There is never a shortage of feel-good stories and positivity to share, but as our reader base grew, so did the number of requests to also include more “hard news.”

Many times lately I’ve placed articles onto pages of Shootin’ the Breeze that have made me uncomfortable.

My brother, Cary, who edits the newspaper’s copy each week, has been known to make comments such as “That’s not very Breezy” or “Not sure that printing this can be reconciled with the paper’s description as a weekly breath of fresh air.”

I don’t disagree with him.

Southwestern Alberta is filled with wonderful people, businesses and organizations, and this is where we continue

to shine the brightest spotlight.

Every community also deals with tragedy and controversy ­— Pincher Creek and Crowsnest Pass are not exceptions.

At times, things occur that shouldn’t be swept under the rug, even if it would be easier to turn a blind eye.

In these pages we do our best to present such situations as accurately and respectfully as possible.

At times, the best way to do this is to simply share the news as it has been presented officially.

Below is an edited press release from Alberta Law Enforcement Response Teams regarding an arrest made last week in Pincher Creek.

It is important to present because police continue to investigate, but is meant with no disrespect to the innocent.

Tough calls are sometimes made from the publisher’s desk.

If you have any relevant information, please contact local police.

We are so thankful for Maricel Cabutotan's care and friendship that enabled Mom to enjoy life at home for another four years.

We also thank the staffs at Crestview Lodge, Home Care and Vista Village for their kind and respectful support.

We are fortunate to live in a community that offers many levels of care.

The Johnson and Calvez Families

The Price is Right!

Package will include return transportation to Cranbrook from Pincher Creek and Blairmore, a ticket to The Price is Right and a room at Casino of the Rockies

OLDMAN RIVER BREWING, continued from page 5 “It’s great to see people’s views of beer changing from the mainstream,” says Brittany.

“The biggest reason we wanted to get into this business was to bring flavours that just didn’t exist in our area, or if they did, you would have to pay quite a bit more than the average beer to get it.”

New developments are in store this year for Oldman River Brewery. While the beer so far has been offered on tap, soon it will also be available to take home in cans and bottles. As

well, the owners hope to have the patio open for the summer, so prepare for relaxation and good company.

Oldman River Brewery will be involved in numerous events throughout the year, including Alberta beer festivals and local farmers markets.

Brittany says such events are “a great opportunity to get out to people that just haven’t been able to make the trip yet out to our location.”

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Pincher Creek man arrested on pornography charges An elementary school teacher in Brocket has been charged with possessing, accessing and distributing child pornography.

Mark Anderson, 44, was arrested Jan. 11 following an investigation by ICE, Alberta’s Internet child exploitation unit.

The arrest was made with the assistance of Pincher Creek RCMP, Piikani Nation RCMP and Lethbridge Police Service.

A number of computers and electronic devices were seized from the man’s Pincher Creek

home for forensic examination.

While the investigation and charges are related to alleged online offences, ICE is encouraging anyone with information about this case to contact local police or www. cybertip.ca.

The investigation began in July 2017 when ICE received a referral from the National Centre for Missing and Exploited Children concerning a social media user uploading child sexual exploitation materials.

ICE conducted an investigation to identify the user, and recently learned the suspect was a teacher. The suspect has also been involved in youth-related programs on the Piikani Nation reserve, such as minor sports and Scouts Canada.

Anderson is expected to appear in court Jan. 30.

ICE — an integrated team with members from Lethbridge, Calgary, Edmonton and Medicine Hat police forces and the RCMP — investigates offences involving

child pornography, computerrelated child sexual abuse, child luring over the Internet, voyeurism involving victims under age 18, and child sex trade and tourism.

It is a unit of ALERT, the Alberta Law Enforcement Response Teams.

Press release from Alberta Law Enforcement Response Teams

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

Small Business Award of Excellence winner in 2013

EDITORIAL

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 Friday at noon

www.shootinthebreeze.ca

Shootin’ the Breeze is available digitally 24/7

Shannon Robison, Publisher – Design, Writing, Photography Cary Robison – Editing, Accounting, Tech Brenda Shenton – Admin. Assistance, Photography, Distribution Management Maureen Bevan – Advertising Sales Jaiden Panchyshyn – Photography, Design, Social Media Management Auralea Boldt, Jessica Buhler, Caitlin Clow, Georgia Dale, Erin Fairhurst, Leslie McCallum – Contributing Writers Gary Andrews, Brian Kitchen, Sue Leong Neumann, Blaise O’Rourke, Kari Zieffle – Distribution

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

Submit to ads@shootinthebreeze.ca 403-904-2227 or 403-563-9192 Advertising deadline is Friday at noon

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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

January 17, 2018

Shootin’ the Breeze

Page 7

Design chosen for Waterton visitor centre

Parks Canada has unveiled the design concept for the new visitor centre at Waterton Lakes National Park.

The centre will welcome Canadians and visitors from around the world, providing opportunities to learn about the park’s cultural and environmental significance. Waterton is part of a world heritage site, and together with Glacier National Park in Montana it forms the world’s first international peace park and international dark sky park.

The town plaza design option was selected for the new visitor centre following public consultations, a community open house and the careful review and consideration of three design concepts.

The chosen design features a central plaza that will complement the beautiful setting of the community. This main public plaza will become a vibrant

part of Waterton’s commercial district and will include an outdoor theatre.

Most importantly, the proximity of the new centre to services in the Waterton business district and the townsite campground will provide Parks Canada with opportunities to connect directly and more frequently with the greatest number of visitors, enabling enhanced visitor experiences.

Through its valued relationship with the Blackfoot, Parks Canada is also working closely with indigenous partners to develop interpretive materials for the new centre that reflect Blackfoot history, traditions, culture and contributions to Waterton Lakes National Park.

The town plaza design will also provide a new nature-based playground for families with children. The existing playground and splash park will be relocated

Affordable New Homes Coming to Pincher Creek!

Gero Construction is offering new affordable homes in Pincher Creek.

Homes are 1275 sq. ft. with two bedrooms and two bathrooms all on one level.

Nine foot ceilings throughout. Large 14 x 24’ attached garage.

These homes would be a great retirement option with wide doorways allowing for wheelchair access.

The homes are located on lots with amazing mountain views and come fenced and landscaped. Each home has rear lane access.

to another area of the townsite (Block 42 school site on Waterton Park Community Association leasehold land), as per the agreement in principle with the association and Improvement District No. 4.

The project will be managed to ensure the best use of taxpayers’ money and will allow for the consolidation of three Parks Canada assets: the aging Falls Theatre and townsite administration buildings, along with the former visitor centre, which was struggling to accommodate the growing volume of visitors to the park, even before the structure burned down in the Kenow wildfire in September.

More than 500,000 people visit Waterton each year.

Parks Canada will continue working closely with stakeholders, First Nations partners, community members and other interested Canadians in

the next steps of the project, and will finalize the detailed design and environmental assessment this winter.

In the fall, Parks Canada will work with Public Services and Procurement Canada on tendering the building contract.

Construction is expected to begin in 2019, with an opening date in 2021.

Over five years, Parks Canada is investing $3 billion into visitor, heritage, waterway and highway infrastructure across the country.

Waterton Lakes National Park is receiving about $100 million to ensure the quality and reliability of its visitor facilities.

Visitors can currently obtain information from park staff at the Waterton Lakes operation building, Monday to Friday from 8 a.m. to noon and 1 to 4 p.m., and at the park gate on Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays.

Parks Canada

Robbie Burns Celebration At the Pincher Creek Legion

Priced at $329,000 plus net GST. For more information please call 403-627-5356

AUSTRALIA DAY CELEBRATION IS SOLD OUT!

You read that correctly!

Last week we sold out of tickets for our Australia Day event!

Riversdale would like to thank everyone who purchased tickets — we can’t wait to see you on the 27th!

Don’t forget that you can also support the Burgman family by donating to their Gofundme page at www.gofundme.com/jakeneedsourhelp

Valentine’s Paint & Shop Event Saturday, Jan. 27 — 2 to 7 p.m.

Lundbreck Community Hall Discover your inner Picasso with Elkford artist Sue Hanlon Space is limited, sign up at www.artbeatactivities.ca There will also be vendor tables as well as a concession

• 5% administration fee • $100 plan set-up fee* • E-Courier encryption for privacy * Waived if you’re switching plans to us

BUSINESS OWNERS!

Did you know any business in Canada, incorporated or not, can have a Health Spending Account plan to cover your family’s health expenses and those of the employees you want to reward and retain?

Visit www.healthspendingaccountcanada.com to learn more or to compare your present HSA to ours.

With an HSA there are no monthly premiums and you control the annual limit for each employee. We are a locally owned business affiliated with a national HSA provider in Calgary with 5,000 business clients.

Email us at admin@draltd.com or call 403-632-5226

Saturday, Jan. 27 Highland Poems, Dancing and Music Scottish Humour and Great Companionship

Traditional Scottish Dinner: Cock-a-leekie soup, haggis, roast beef, neeps and tatties, Scottish bread pudding Doors Open at 7 p.m., Dinner at 8 p.m.

Tickets $25 per person Available at the Pincher Creek Legion Tickets are nonrefundable and a limited number are available

Page 8

Shootin’ the Breeze

January 17, 2018

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

Keep exercise goals simple

By Sheryl Baker We all have the best of intentions to begin a new, healthy lifestyle in the new year. But it’s hard to know how and where to begin.

There is a lot of information out there, so it gets confusing.

The most important thing to know is don’t complicate it. If you are exercising only once in a while, or not at all, trying to start with five or six days a week is not realistic and will be overwhelming.

Start with one or two days of structured exercise. There is no point tackling five days

a week if two is a struggle.

Allow yourself to feel success first by consistently getting two days in a week before adding another day.

If you are already working out five or six days a week and are frustrated because you can’t seem to change your body, and you keep getting sick or injured, perhaps you need to exercise less not more. Doing fewer but more structured and focused workouts will allow your metabolism to be restored and allow your body to begin to change.

There is not a quick fix.

That is contrary to what you see on social media, but it is the truth. To improve your health you need to make the choice to do the work required to get there.

It doesn’t have to be overwhelming. Start with small mini-goals, reach them, and eventually you will achieve your big goal.

Step by step, you will feel stronger, healthier and more in control of your health every day.

Sheryl Baker is owner of SGB Fitbodies in Pincher Creek.

GET A I.C.E.

Did You Know?

Crowsnest Pass Adult Education offers learning opportunities such as: General Education Development (GED) Feb. 5 to March 14 Call to inquire about upcoming dates for: Computers One-on-One, Windows 10, Canadian Restricted Firearm Safety, Workplace Hazardous Materials Information System (WHMIS), Transportation of Dangerous Goods (TGD), Food Safety Training, Wilderness and Remote First Aid. A full listing of our courses can be found in the Municipality of Crowsnest Pass Community Handbook.

CNP Adult Education is happy to set up a course specifically for your employees, group or organization.

Call Nina Ford at 403-563-8516 or email cnpadulted@gmail.com for more information.

Education courses are made possible by a grant from Alberta Advanced Education and subsidies may be available.

Please let us know if you would like more information.

FITBODY

Our drop-in classes include I.C.E., which is our cardio class. It is fun, fast paced and full of variety. It can be modified to suit your level of fitness.

Classes run Mondays and Wednesdays at 9 a.m., 12:05 p.m. and 5 p.m., and Fridays at 12:05 p.m.

Movement Improvement Mobility and Restoration

We also have Movement Improvement, our gentler, more modified approach to exercise. Classes are Mondays and Wednesdays at 10:30 a.m.

Mobility and Restoration is quickly becoming one of our most soughtafter classes. It focuses on improving your movement, reducing pain and restoring your body to improved function. You leave feeling amazing!

Classes run Mondays at 6 p.m. and Fridays at 9 a.m.

Nutrition Coaching and One-On-One Sessions Available 403-904-4042 Unit C 1348 McEachern St. Pincher Creek sgbfitbodies@gmail.com

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The Breeze

January 17, 2018

Shootin’ the Breeze

Page 9

Notes from our readers, letters to the editor and government news

MAILBOX

Crowsnest Museum sees another successful year At the Crowsnest Museum and Archives, 2017 was busy, exhausting, exhilarating and very successful.

We opened the renovated barracks of the Alberta Provincial Police in the downtown portion of the Coleman National Historic Site. We owe a great deal of gratitude to our members, sponsors, supporters and donors — not only for supporting the APP project, but also for all the past support the museum has received. On behalf of the board

of directors, thank you.

The Crowsnest Museum takes pride in protecting and preserving your great artifacts and the history of Crowsnest Pass citizens, most of whom are your family members. In order to continue, we need you to help us operate and maintain your museum.

We are currently seeking volunteers to keep the building open five days a week. Training will be provided, with a schedule of hours to choose from. Contact

the museum if that sounds interesting to you.

Members, you are requested to pay your 2018 dues, and if you know of anyone who may be interested in becoming a member, please encourage them to join.

On March 11, please join us for our annual general meeting at the Coleman Seniors Centre at 2 p.m. This meeting will be brief, as we will be having a launch event for the new Museum Friends program. This is an opportunity for you to join the new program

Vital Signs report offers detailed look at life in southwestern Alberta The Community Foundation’s annual Vital Signs report was released in the fall, offering a detailed picture of the quality of life in southwestern Alberta.

The report concludes a project examining community connections, cultural life, environment, healthy communities, lifelong learning and living standards.

Using local data, information and community sources, Vital Signs identifies areas of need by presenting the challenges and advantages of life in southwestern Alberta. This enables the Community Foundation to inform donors about pressing issues and to allocate support to charities working in those areas.

“Vital Signs has grown to become an important part of the work we do, especially this year,” says Charleen Davidson, Community Foundation’s executive director.

“Our Community Priorities granting program is now aligned with our Vital Signs work at the application stage. Applicants must now indicate which of the six impact areas their projects will address and what the anticipated outcomes will be.”

Highlights from the report: — From 2011 to 2016, deaths due to fentanyl overdose in Alberta rose by 6,000 per cent. Alberta Health Services’ south zone recorded 17

and to recognize you for your donation and continued support.

You are also invited to join the board and staff in viewing the new sustainability plan, have refreshments, visit and have your questions answered. Bring a friend!

Thank you again for a great 2017. I look forward to seeing you at the museum in 2018.

Pat Rypien, President Crowsnest Historical Society

Practise winter car smarts Across the province, RCMP and partner police agencies are warning about the repercussions of leaving your unsecured vehicle idling.

Auto thieves are roaming neighbourhoods and rural areas looking for quick opportunities.

It takes less than a minute to get into a vehicle and drive away.

“Although trucks are predominantly the vehicle of choice, don’t forget to secure your other motor vehicles, like quads, tractors and snowmobiles,” says Cpl. Curtis Peters of RCMP strategic communications.

“We have a recent example of a situation where a tractor was stolen and used to ram and disable a police vehicle. These situations are potentially deadly.”

The mindset of the driver of a stolen vehicle is not always rational. Situations involving stolen vehicles can have a significant impact on public safety and police safety. There is no expectation that a thief will take care of your vehicle.

Recently, in two different jurisdictions, police safety was put severely at risk.

Barrhead RCMP responded to a suspicious-person complaint, which escalated into the suspect stealing a tractor that had keys in it and ramming the police vehicle. In Red Deer, a 21-year-old male stole a truck that was idling and, when located by police, he rammed the police vehicle with

fentanyl overdose deaths in 2016, and 10 of those occurred in Lethbridge.

— The Oldman River’s sub-basin has an average annual flow of almost 3.5 million cubic decametres, which is enough water to fill 1.4 million Olympic-size swimming pools.

Use of this water is strictly controlled by allocation agreements, and 83 per cent is allocated for irrigation use. Allocations for municipal drinking water account for only one per cent of the subbasin’s total usage.

Other topics covered in Vital Signs include homelessness in rural communities and cultural and arts projects throughout the region.

Guest speakers at the launch included Jody Francis, a housing liaison worker from Fort Macleod, and a delegate from the Allied Arts Council of Lethbridge. Both spoke about their organizations and how their work helps to improve the vitality of life in southwestern Alberta.

The Community Foundation of Lethbridge and Southwestern Alberta connects donors with causes, and awards over $700,000 in grants annually to qualified groups throughout the southwest. To learn more, visit www.cflsa.ca.

Community Foundation of Lethbridge and Southern Alberta

the truck.

Fortunately, in both incidents, no one was injured.

Between Oct. 1 and Nov. 8, 1,420 vehicles were stolen in Alberta RCMP jurisdictions.

Many of these were vehicles left idling with the keys accessible.

Drivers are reminded: — Never leave a running vehicle unattended. If your keys must be in the ignition to warm it up, you should remain with the vehicle.

— Install a remote starter if possible. However, always make sure the vehicle is locked.

— Use a steering wheel lock to deter thieves.

— Never leave children unattended in a running vehicle.

— Never leave spare keys or garage door openers in or around your vehicle. If an opener goes missing at any time, the garage door should immediately be recoded.

— If your keys are stolen, immediately change the locks for the missing keys, including residences and vehicles.

— Vehicles equipped with a keyless ignition can still be stolen if left running, even with the key fob removed from the vehicle.

— Always lock the main door leading from a garage into a residence.

Alberta RCMP

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stop by for breakfast, lunch, Friday night dinner and Sunday brunch

Come for our fabulous Chinese buffet or order off our menu

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403-563-5227

Serving local, farm fresh, free-range eggs Rose Creek Ranch breakfast sausage Homemade soups and baking made daily 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday to Thursday 8 a.m. to 7 p.m. Friday 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Sunday

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Pincher Creek

Page 10

Shootin’ the Breeze

January 17, 2018

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

Early Childhood Coalitions set goals for new year

By Beth Pounder The new year is a time for goal setting. Individuals take note of good changes they want to make and set them into action.

The same can be said for our Early Childhood Coalitions of Alberta.

Coalitions across Alberta are preparing to review Early Development Instrument results being released by the tri-ministry of Alberta Health, Alberta Education and Alberta Community and Social Services (Early Childhood Coalitions fall under the latter).

After reviewing these EDI results, individual coalitions will set goals for the upcoming year and future.

The EDI is a 103-item questionnaire used by kindergarten teachers to assess overall development in a child’s first five years of life. Parents may choose whether to include their child in EDI collection, and no individual results are given.

Information collected through the EDI gives understanding of the current state of children’s developmental health in a community. Provincial bodies, coalitions and community stakeholders use the information to create effective action and

mobilization of resources that reflect the needs of prekindergarten-aged children.

The instrument assesses five domains of development: physical health and wellbeing, social competence, emotional maturity, language and cognitive development, and communication skills and general knowledge.

The EDI scores for each developmental area are divided into three categories: on track, at risk, vulnerable. The categories are based on percentiles that are compared to national data.

On-track scores represent expected or higher-thanexpected results for their age.

At-risk scores are lower than expected, which suggests greater risks for continuing in a low achievements and health trajectory. Children who score below the 10th percentile are considered vulnerable for problems later in childhood.

In the following five weeks we will discuss each domain more specifically, giving understanding of the skills and competencies being examined in the EDI, and provide tools for caregivers to help their little ones develop the best they can.

Curling offers wealth of benefits for young and old

By Debbie Reed Researching curling’s health benefits — along with the opportunity for families to play together, and for young and old to interact socially and physically — makes me wonder why more people are not joining this sport.

Pincher Creek Curling Club has a very strong junior program starting at age 10, and we will also look at programs for younger players in the future.

Our sturling leagues for seniors and physically challenged persons are becoming very popular.

Afternoons are filled with our junior program, students from schools learning to curl, and sturling league play. Our nights are also filled with sturling, men’s and mixed teams playing.

Check out www. pinchercreekcurlingclub.com for more information.

Benefits of curling — Drop-ins are welcome. You can join at any time during the year as an individual or a team.

— It provides an excellent cardiovascular workout, increasing balance and agility.

— Curling is a game of

etiquette. It is always includes a handshake and expression of “Good game.”

— Age doesn’t matter. Curling can be enjoyed at any age, by any gender.

— Costs are minimal for leagues and bonspiels, and equipment will last for years.

— Curling is an Olympic sport and recognized lifelong sport.

— It’s like chess on ice, because you decide your moves after each rock is thrown.

— Curling enables people from all walks of life to interact and socialize. It’s a great sport for building stronger families and communities.

— Everyone on a team plays and no one has to sit out.

— Curling is easy to learn, with few rules.

— With stick curling and grippers, young and old can play without fear of falling.

— Players can learn to master their emotions so they can trust their instincts while delivering a rock.

— Curling promotes working together to make decisions and play the game.

Debbie Reed is past president of Pincher Creek Curling Club.

SEE YOUR EVENT IN MARK YOUR CALENDAR 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 office@shootinthebreeze.ca or call 403-904-2227 Deadline is Thursday prior to publication at noon

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obin & Co. Chartered Accountant

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ACCOUNTANT IN OFFICE EVERY BUSINESS DAY IN CROWSNEST PASS

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January 17, 2018

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! Monday to Friday – Open play: 8:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.

(Thursdays to 7:30 p.m.) at Pincher Creek Family Centre.

Mondays and Wednesdays – Free community keep-fit: 10 a.m. at town hall gym in Pincher Creek.

– ICE (cardio) drop-in classes: 9 a.m., 12:05 p..m. and 5 p.m. at SGB Fitbodies.

For info call 403-904-4042.

– Movement Improvement drop-in classes: 10:30 a.m. at SGB Fitbodies. For info call 403-904-4042.

Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays – Pickleball: 2 p.m. at town hall gym in Pincher Creek.

Tuesdays and Thursdays – Afternoon fitness break: 4 p.m. at town hall gym in Pincher Creek.

– Gentle yoga: 11 a.m. Tuesday and 11:30 a.m. Thursday at town hall gym in Pincher Creek.

Mondays – Destination Exploration: 10 to 11:15 a.m. at Pincher Creek Family Centre.

– Babes & Bumps: 1 to 3 p.m. at Pincher Creek Family Centre.

– Mobility and Restoration drop-in

classes: 6 p.m. at SGB Fitbodies. For info call 403-904-4042.

Tuesdays – NIA: 2:30 p.m. at town hall gym in Pincher Creek.

– Pickleball: 7 p.m. at Canyon School in Pincher Creek.

– Monkey Moves: 1:30 to 2:30 p.m. at Monster Fitness in Pincher Creek.

Wednesdays – Little Sprouts: 10 to 11:15 a.m. at Pincher Creek Family Centre.

Thursdays – Pincher Creek RCADE (Regional Centre for Arts, Design and Entrepreneurship) drop-in program: 3:30 to 5:30 p.m. at Lebel Mansion.

– Gymtastics: 10 to 11:15 a.m. at town hall gym in Pincher Creek.

Fridays – Free gym walk program: 10 a.m. at town hall gym in Pincher Creek.

– Messy play and sensory fun: 10 to 11:15 a.m. at Pincher Creek Family Centre.

– ICE (cardio) drop-in classes: 12:05 p.m. at SGB Fitbodies. For info call 403904-4042.

– Mobility and restoration drop-in classes: 9 a.m. at SGB Fitbodies. For info call 403-904-4042.

Saturdays – Who Let the Dudes Out?: 10 a.m. to noon, first and third Saturdays, at Pincher Creek Family Centre.

Wednesday, January 17 – Wag Your Tale: 5:30 to 6:30 p.m. at Pincher Creek Family Centre. For info call 403-627-5569.

Tuesday, January 23 – Angels Within Us annual general meeting: 7 p.m. at Heritage Inn banquet room in Pincher Creek.

Saturday, January 27 – Family Literacy Day, held annually to raise awareness of the importance of reading and engaging in other literacy-related activities as a family. For info see www.FamilyLiteracyDay.ca.

– Robbie Burns celebration: 7 p.m. doors open, 8 p.m. dinner, at Pincher Creek Legion. Traditional Scottish dinner, Highland poems, dancing and music. Tickets ($25) available at the Legion.

– Valentine’s paint-and-shop event:

2 to 7 p.m. at Lundbreck Community Hall. Space is limited; sign up at www. artbeatactivities.ca.

– Riversdale Resources Australia Day celebration: 6 p.m. cocktails, 7 p.m. dinner, 8 p.m. live and silent auctions, 9 p.m. dance, at MDM Centre in Bellevue, in support of Jake Burgman. For info call 403-753-5160. Tickets are sold out; to support the Burgman family see www. gofundme.com/jakeneedsourhelp.

– The Polyjesters in concert: 7:30 p.m. at Empress Theatre in Fort Macleod.

Wednesday, February 7 – Shootin’ the Breeze moves to a paid model, $1.25 (GST included) per copy.

Per-issue cost is lower if you choose a subscription.

– Winter Walk and Jersey Day in Pincher Creek. Wear your jersey and meet at noon at the swimming pool for a community walk along the creek trail.

Hot chocolate and cookies served afterwards.

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

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

January 17, 2018

No one says it will be easy Everyone has their two cents to share when it comes to stories about pregnancy and childbirth. And some simply can’t resist sharing their most gruesome and traumatic birthing stories with this first-time mom.

While I don’t have any great illusions about my birthing day, and would like my baby’s debut to be as blissful, stress-free and painless as possible, I’ve heard enough to know it could be the opposite.

I repeat, I’ve heard enough! From the footling breech baby popping out a foot on a 100-mile-an-hour drive to Lethbridge, to the audible chop of the episiotomy scissors; people, specifically moms, haven’t spared me the gory details.

I’ve heard it all this last eight months: from third-degree tears, hernias exploding and excruciating brow presentations to cruel doctors and thoughtless nurses.

Believe it or not, none of these unsolicited horror stories are helping me. I’m just trying to enjoy the last bit of selfish relaxation that I’ll have for the next, oh, 20 years or so.

It sounds like parenting will be a raft of anxieties, and undertaking a birth will be the first of many. But thinking about birth, strangely enough, doesn’t make me that nervous. I wonder if it’s a biological imperative, or if I have a screw loose.

Or, perhaps it’s the miraculous gang of confident and optimistic women around me counteracting the unwitting fearmongers, some with stories that have them glowing and teary some 35 years after the birth itself.

Maybe the nerves will strike when my child starts to walk, or run, or use the Internet. Or maybe not. Maybe this model for nervous, hyper-vigilant motherhood is just a form of control; continuous policing to make sure moms keep babies in their place, insulated and secure forever.

Aren’t our bodies built for this? I believe thousands of years of evolution and generations of practical medicine are going to give me and my baby a darn good chance of surviving this wild endeavour. And I don’t want to spend my life from here on paralyzed with worry. Because if it’s not birth, it’s babyhood, childhood, adolescence, adulthood and on

and on forever. I refuse to think that entering parent life means the end of my formerly “carefree” existence.

Stress is a killer, so I am going to try to banish needless nervousness and worry from my experience as a parent. Actually, this all started when I saw the second little strip of dye on the pregnancy test. I realized that I could no longer hold space for all of the worry and doubt that I carried with me while we were trying to conceive. I’d had enough of that for a lifetime.

I know, all you professional mothers out there are laughing your heads off at me. But I’m serious! I’m done stressing.

The literature that they feed us pregnant women is full of precautions to take, signs to look for, and behaviours, emotions and habits to avoid completely. Well, when I finally got pregnant, I decided that it would better serve me and the baby to let it all go and, for once, relax. It’s working, and I want to hold on to that feeling.

Does this mean I kept tossing back the booze and took up a pack-a-day habit? Absolutely not.

But it does mean that I enjoyed my morning coffee, kept having my yolks soft and ate a couple of pieces of sashimi and a fair bit of unpasteurized cheese. (Think French pregos forgo le fromage? I think not.)

I kept riding my horses until I physically couldn’t get up in the saddle anymore. I kept watching horror movies (to my husband’s dismay), working three jobs and eating ... did I already mention eating?

During my first two trimesters, I was too hungry to care how much nutrition, refined sugar or carbohydrates were in my food. I just needed the damn food. Besides, what better time is there to let it go and enjoy the generous shape of my new body? (Ask me this again in bikini season ’18).

Does banishing worry mean that I will take reckless chances with my precious baby?

Again, no. I’m not about to thumb my nose at conventional medicine, but it does mean that I will be taking modern wisdom with a healthy pinch of salt and that I will try, very hard, not to sweat the small stuff.

Part of that means honouring the generations of women who came before me

Shootin’ the Breeze writer Georgia Dale has a bun in the oven and shares her thoughts on becoming a first-time parent.

and managed to perpetuate the race in spite of poverty, heavy and physical workloads and limited diets.

While becoming pregnant necessarily elevates a person’s status in any culture, I’m not sure if it should disempower them by putting the needs of the unborn baby ahead of their own and piling them with a bunch of extra stress. After all, what’s good for the goose must be good for the gosling!

Footnote to this story: I just had the wonderful opportunity of photographing the area’s first baby of the year. Even though she was already a week old, and perfectly average in newborn size … wow, she is tiny! And alarmingly, adorably delicate.

The thought that in six short weeks I’ll be bringing home a baby similar to her size and shape (if I could be so lucky) has changed my mind: I’m actually nervous as hell and will probably be worried about her from now on until the day I die.

PLAY W IT H YOUR F OOD! Get toothpicks and your favourite snack to build a house, tower or circle by attaching the snack with toothpicks.

Best part is you can eat it (not the toothpicks, of course)!

How do you learn as a family?

Tell us: #FamilyLiteracyDay

l @abclifeliteracy

Find more ways to learn at play as a family at www.FamilyLiteracyDay.ca

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mr-b Computer Services

Computers • Networking • Websites Call for a free consultation

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

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Mobile computer lab serving southwestern Alberta 403-795-9750

Turnbull Trucking Hauling • Topsoil & Fill Crushed & Pit-Run Gravel

Gordon Turnbull 403-627-3690 • 403-627-8022 • 403-627-8701

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

Call 403-339-CARE

Professional and Specialty Services

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Passtrak

Crowsnest Pass Track and Field Club

Crowsnest Pass The Jack Simpson Open Track Meet took place at the University Track Field Club of Calgary on Jan. 7.& Fifteen Passtrak athletes took part in 37 events and produced 10 lifetimebest performances, set six new club records and brought home one first-place, two second-place and five third-place finishes.

Finley Wilmot and Carson Hay ran neck and neck in the tyke (age 10 and under) boys races. In the 60-metre race they placed 14th and 15th with times of 13.16 and 13.52 seconds respectively.

In the 150 metres they reversed the order of finish, with Carson 14th and Finley 15th in 34.62 and 34.84 seconds. Their final race was the 400 metres. Carson placed 15th in 1:49.95 and Finley 14th with a new Passtrak club record of 1:47.88.

Devon MacGregor was Passtrak’s only entrant in the 11-year-old girls category. She ran the fastest 60 metres of her life in 10.49 seconds for sixth place. Then she ran her fastest 150 metres in 26.06 seconds for fourth place. She then took on the 400 metres for the first time and recorded a 1:21.81 time for third place.

There were seven Passtrak athletes in the 12-year-old age group. In the girls events, Summer Musschoot placed 10th in the 60 metres in 10.08 seconds, Clara Websdale 18th in 11.40 seconds, Avaya Ellis ninth in 10.04 seconds and Abigail Talbot 17th in 11.11 seconds, which was a lifetime-best performance for her.

The next race was the 150 metres, where Summer ran her fastest time ever in 24.50 seconds for sixth place.

Avaya also ran her fastest time ever, 24.56 seconds for seventh, and Abigail also ran a lifetime best in 28.55 seconds for 17th.

In the 400-metre race, Summer placed fourth in 1:19.80 while Avaya took sixth in 1:20.54. Hayley Whidden ran her first race as a Passtrak athlete and placed ninth in the 400 metres in 1:28.77. Abigail finished off her day with a 10th place result in the 400 metres in 1:40.88.

By Passtrak Coach Ritch Braun

Clara Websdale chose the 1,200 metres for her final event, which she completed in 5:36.33 for fifth place, setting a new club record for her age group.

Passtrak’s last two 12-year-old athletes were Edison Wilmot and Sawyer Sawatzky, who contested the boys events. Edison had one race, the 60 metres, where he placed ninth in 11.66 seconds. Sawyer ran the 60 metres in 10.41 seconds for sixth, then the 150 metres in 26.55 seconds for fifth. His final event was the 1,200 metres, which he completed in 5:51.46 for fifth place.

Jack Bailey was Passtrak’s lone 13-year-old entrant. His 60-metre time was 10.54 seconds for second place. His 150-metre time was 27.96 seconds for third place and he finished the 400 metres in 1:27.61 for another second-place result.

Libbey Wilmot ran in the 14-yearold girls division. She ran the fastest 60 metres of her life in 9.78 seconds for 13th and her fastest 150 metres in 24.14 seconds for 12th. She then ran the 1,200 metres for the first time and finished third with a new Passtrak club record of 4:46.28.

Carter Whidden ran in his first official track and field meet in Calgary. He ran the 14-year-old boys 60-metre race in 8.99 seconds for seventh place.

Paige Richards took seventh place in the 15-year-old girls 60 metres in 8.93 seconds and then placed fifth in the 60-metre hurdles in 11.24 seconds.

Craig Hay competed in the master men’s 35-to-39 age category. He ran the fastest 60 metres of his life in 8.88 seconds for a third-place finish.

He then ran his first 300-metre race, where he placed first in 50.34 seconds and set a new Passtrak record for his age group.

The club’s final event of the day was the four-by-200 relay. Avaya, Devon, Hayley and Clara teamed up to take third place in the race for girls aged 12 and 13. They finished in 2:34.49, a new club record for that age group.

January 17, 2018

Shootin’ the Breeze

Page 13

Robert Allan Close Robert (Bob) Close, beloved husband of the late Barb Close, passed away at home on Jan. 4, 2018.

Bob was born in Hafford, Sask., and had many adventures with his five siblings growing up on the farm together. Bob went to the Albertown one-room school for grades 1 to 8, and when he reached high school he attended Hafford Central School, where he played football.

Bob left high school and moved to work for a farmer in the Wilkie-Unity area, where met Barb in the spring of 1967. They were married in the summer of 1968. They made their home in many places as Bob had his dad’s nomad foot.

They lived in Saskatoon, where Bob went to mechanics school, and in 1977 their daughter Leanne was born. Soon after, they moved to North Battleford, where they had their second daughter, Rebecca. Here Bob worked hard at running his own transmission shop while Barb worked at the Royal Bank.

They briefly moved to Edmonton for a new job for Bob, but returned to North Battleford a few months later. In 1987 the family moved to Pincher Creek, where they finally put down some roots.

Bob had many different jobs while in Pincher Creek. He worked as a mechanic and service manager at Future Ford and Westcastle Motors. Then he poured his heart into managing the Pincher Creek Golf Course and running the Clubhouse Restaurant, which allowed him to pursue his loves of cooking and golf.

After a few years at the golf course, Bob took a job working for Lee Hochstein at the feedlot. He enjoyed feeding the cows, doing odd jobs around the farm and helping with seeding and harvesting the fields.

In 2009, Bob suffered a farming accident that caused him to lose all the fingers and some of his thumb on his dominant right hand. Showing his true spirit, strength and determination, he learned to be left-handed and live a full and active life.

Once the healing process was complete, Bob returned to work for Sproule Holdings until he passed away. He thoroughly enjoyed his work at both farms and often posted beautiful photos of harvest time for all to see.

Bob had many hobbies, including golf, curling, cooking and reading. In recent years, he loved the time he spent with his granddaughters the most.

Bob was very involved with clubs and volunteering in every community he lived in. He was awarded a lifetime membership in the Kinsmen Club. He had been highly involved with the Knights of Columbus in Pincher Creek, and loved his volunteer time with them. He could always be called on to help with anything, any time of day.

Barb and Bob also loved to travel together and had many dreams and plans.

Bob is survived by his two daughters, Leanne (Chris) and Rebecca (Jason); three grandchildren, Emily, Abby, and Kayla; two brothers, Jon and Donald, and two sisters, Betty and Darlene; and many loving nieces and nephews and other relatives.

He was predeceased by his wife, Barb; his parents, Josephine and Edward; and his brother Fred.

A prayer service was held on Jan. 11, 2018, and funeral mass was held at St. Michael’s Catholic Church in Pincher Creek on Jan. 12, 2018.

Funeral arrangements entrusted to Eden’s Funeral Home 403-627-3131 www.edensfuneralhome.com

Robert William Francis Lee 1936 – 2018

Crowsnest Pass Pre-novice Thunder Report

By Michelle Hruby

Some great hockey was played Sunday in Crowsnest Pass against the Fernie pre-novice team. This was a close game, with a score of 4-3 for Fernie. Our hometown team worked hard, making the coaches and parents really proud of their continued efforts and team spirit.

Thunder goals were scored by Rylan Foster/Ryder Jorgenson and Nicolas Gillespie.

Special thanks go out for all the hard work of team manager Abby Dawson, and to the coaches, who spent countless hours teaching kids the love of the sport.

The Pre-Novice Thunder play their next game on Saturday, right here in Crowsnest Pass, against Sparwood. Please join us for this game, starting at 2:15 and ending at 3:45 p.m.

Crowsnest Pass Peewee Thunder Report

By Rupert Hewison The Crowsnest Pass Peewee Thunder hockey team played two games this past weekend.

On Saturday they played against the Picture Butte Blades at the Coleman arena. It was an exciting and close game. Unfortunately, they lost by a score of 4-3.

Quinn Douglas scored two goals and Kenna Lewis scored one.

On Sunday, the Peewee Thunder travelled to Fort Macleod to play against the Mavericks. Crowsnest Pass played well but ended up

losing 6-3.

Brayden Anctil scored all three Thunder goals, and Luca Canderan assisted on all three. Quinn Douglas also assisted with two of the goals.

The team has two home games this weekend. They play at the Sports Complex in Coleman on Friday at 6:45 p.m. and on Sunday at 1:15 pm. Take these opportunities to come out and cheer them on.

It is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of Robert (Bob) Lee of Blairmore on Jan. 5, 2018, at the age of 29,892 days.

Bob was born in Oshawa, Ont., on March 4, 1936. He visited Crowsnest Pass once in 1961, and then returned in 1991 to make the town his permanent home.

When Bob wasn’t busy working as an electrician, he enjoyed hiking and watching motor sports, but his favourite pastime was making people smile — something he was very good at.

Bob was a proud member of the Royal Canadian Legion Branch 9, Coleman, and he was well known in the community for his larger-thanlife personality. His expansive character was put to good use when he appeared in Brokeback Mountain and The Secret of the Nutcracker.

Bob’s cheerful spirit will be greatly missed and fondly remembered.

Left to mourn his passing and celebrate his life are his devoted sons Robin (Linda) Lee of Calgary and Ryan (Jacquie) Lee of Langdon, Alta.; his cherished grandchildren, Rebecca Lynne and Kaitlin Ashley; his dear siblings, Lloyd (Yvonne) Lee of Aldersyde, Alta., and Yuma, Ariz., and Pat (John) Wade of Oshawa, Ont.; numerous nieces and nephews; many individuals he called his “kids,” as well as all of his friends in Crowsnest Pass.

He was predeceased by his parents, Francis and Bessie Lee; his youngest son, Jason Lee; and his stepdaughter, Kathy Barrette.

With respect for Bob’s wishes, no funeral service will be held, and his cremated remains will be placed in the family plot in Oshawa at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations will be gratefully accepted by the charity of your choice. Condolences may be registered at www. fantinsfuneralchapel.ca.

Fantin’s Funeral Chapel entrusted with the arrangements 403-562-8555

Page 14

Shootin’ the Breeze

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January 17, 2018

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In memory of Bernie Weninger Bernard Francis (Bernie) Weninger passed away peacefully on Jan. 14, 2017, at the age of 82, surrounded by family at the Pincher Creek Health Centre, after battling TMB (too many birthdays).

Bernie was born and raised on a farm near Allan, Sask., to Joseph and Johanna Weninger. Bernie cherished his childhood years on the farm and the close relationships he had with his parents, brothers and many relatives. He was an avid researcher of his ancestry and took a keen interest in the history of his beloved parents’ families.

Bernie studied at the University of Saskatchewan and the University of Toronto before laying down roots in southern Alberta in the 1960s. Grounded in a strong Catholic upbringing, Bernie was a deeply faithful man who tried his best to serve God in everything he did. In his later years, Bernie attended Foothills United Church in Cowley with his wife, Lou, as well as St. Michael’s Church in Pincher Creek.

Bernie was a highly intelligent and educated man and, as a teacher, he shared his love of knowledge and learning with hundreds of students over the years. Bernie taught for many years at the Pincher Creek Colony, as well as Matthew Halton School and Catholic Central High School in Lethbridge. Bernie’s friendships with members of the Pincher Creek Colony continued well after his retirement in 1989, right up until his final days.

Following his teaching days, Bernie entered the business world and worked briefly in sales before running the Co-op gas bar in Pincher Creek, which he dubbed “Bernie’s Tempo.” Bernie thoroughly enjoyed his gas bar days and the opportunity it gave him to socialize with his many friends in the Pincher Creek area.

Bernie had a deep love for the Pincher Creek area. He volunteered for numerous organizations and was instrumental in the development of the Windsor Heritage Dropin Centre in Lundbreck.

In his last decade, he grudgingly travelled to exotic locations such as the Maritimes, the United States and Mexico with Lou. Though he secretly enjoyed these vacations in his retirement, he would often complain about not being able to sleep in his own bed.

Bernie is survived by his brothers, Albert, Ozzie (Eva) and Ray (Emily); his wife, Mary Louise “Lou” Niven; his first wife, Lorraine Babick, and their children, Russell (Hiroko), Stephan and Marie (Paul); grandchildren Allison, Haley, Ethan, Chelsea, Jessica and Rory; and numerous cousins, nieces and nephews.

Bernie was predeceased by his mother, Johanna Weninger (née Ebertz); his father, Joseph Weninger; and sister-in-law Theresa Weninger.

Bernie will be remembered as a kind and gentle man, a noble friend, and a loving and devoted father, grandfather, husband, brother and uncle. He was loved by many people and especially adored by his children. He always looked forward to and enjoyed the time he spent with his family, and his love and support for them never wavered.

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SPRUCE POINT PARK ASSOCIATION accepting applications for position of Park Manager (Seasonal) for May 1st through September 30th with flexiProgram-value-ad.indd bility on September end date. Spruce Point Park Campground and Marina facility is on Lesser Slave Lake 285kms northwest of Edmonton, AB near Hamlet of Kinuso. For complete package and details call 780-775-3805 or 780-805-0801 or email sprucepointpark@gmail. com. Closing date February 15, 2018 or until suitable candidate is found.

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Grass Roots

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

by Jody Best

January 17, 2018

Shootin’ the Breeze

Page 15

A prairie meditation

Let Jody Best’s descriptive narrative take you away to a warm summer day and an escape from what has so far been a harsh winter.

Come away with me for a while. Grab your hat, sunscreen and some water. Find a patch of wild prairie and look around.

All around us are native grasses gone to seed, rustling in the August wind, deeply rooted and profoundly essential to the ranching community and wildlife populations in the area. Can you hear the seeds rattling on the culms, almost ready to be released to find a resting place on the ground?

Over there, do you see the fir and limber pine poking towards the sky on the ridges of the Porcupine Hills? Some say it is these trees that gave the Porcupine Hills their name.

Look down, there’s some blazing star. Its bright fuchsia flower is as dainty as dragonfly wings. The seeds will be yellowish

pink and hairy to the touch.

And there, I see a stone with at least five different colours of lichen. How long do you think that stone has sat there? How old do you think the lichen is? How many fires have burnt here over the ages, scarring this stone with heat cracks, ash and charcoal?

How many different grass species do you see around you? How many wild flowers?

Can you close your eyes and differentiate between the sounds of grasshoppers and bees and crickets and flies? Did you hear that bird behind us?

Look up slowly. A deer bedded down shows only her ears perked up out of the tall grass on that hill over there. She doesn’t think we’ve seen her and we’ll let her believe that. We know it’s a doe because the stags are growing

antlers at this time of year. I wonder if she has a fawn nearby.

Taste the grass. Cattle and horses and elk enjoy it, why can’t we? The best part is low down near the soil where the leaf blade comes away from the stem. The stem is juiciest here and full of flavour without being dry and crunchy. What do you think?

Some grasses have the fresh taste of garden peas to me.

Let’s sit. The ground feels spongy and comfy to rest on, with so much carry-over, though some folks worry about fuel loads and fire hazards.

Sit tall and breathe deep.

Slowly, slowly … close your eyes … feel the wind on your face, caressing your cheeks. Soak in the sun like you are a plant that requires sunlight so your chlorophyll can do the work of

Business Directory Trucking Ltd. Lucas Sorge

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producing sugars and oxygen.

Feel this process of cleansing and renewal.

Let the wind buffet you, knowing that, like the plants that surround you, you are deeply rooted. The rule of thumb for grasses is that roughly one-third of the plant is above ground and two-thirds is below ground.

Let’s explore this: Close your eyes and breathe deeply. Let your roots travel from your seat down through the shallow topsoil to the sandstone beneath. Explore that cool roughness, find the cracks and fissures, travel into those crevasses in the moist darkness.

Let the peace of these deep stones creep slowly over you until you feel that you are part of the sandstone. Rest …

When you are ready, let your eyes open.

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Page 16

Shootin’ the Breeze

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

January 17, 2018

,

Effective with the Feb. 7, 2018 issue, the newsstand price of Shootin’ the Breeze will be

$1.25

Per Copy GST Included

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per print copy GST included

2018 print subscriptions begin Feb. 7 Subscriptions all expire Dec. 31 of the calendar year

Local Rate $40.50 (GST included)

Post office boxes in Town and MD of Pincher Creek and Municipality of Crowsnest Pass only

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