Guide 2014
Your guide to ever ything Spar wood!
What to see
What to do
Where to go
What’s inside the guide! 4. 6. 8. 10. 12. 14. 16. 18. 20. 22.
Sparwood at a glance Where the water is 5 great reasons Jenna loves Sparwood Discovering Sparwood - Calendar of Events Golfing in Sparwood Camping in Sparwood Hike, Bike, Walk Sparwood Trails Disc golf in Sparwood Coal Miner Days Map - Index
The Sparwood Guide is published once a year by: The Free Press, 342 2nd Ave, A Division of Black Press Box 2350, Fernie, BC, V0B 1M0 Phone: 250-423-4666 All content is Copyright 2013/14 and may not be reproduced without prior approval of the publisher.
SALES REPRESENTATIVE: Jenna Jensen ART DIRECTOR: Kaitlyn Haarstad PHOTOGRAPHY: Jenna Jensen WRITERS: Jenna Jensen PUBLISHER: Andrea Horton Front page photo by Jenna Jensen
we repair anything that rolls,
!
Home of the Elk crawls or just sits and swings. Valleys Most Experienced Mechanics Free pickup and delivery in the Elk Valley
Personal automotive, commercial and industrial rePair services
Sparwood 743 Douglas Fir Road 250-425-6535, Elkford 1 Front Street 250-865-4622 or Cranbrook 701 Industrial Road 1 250-426-7247 2
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Photos by Pat Allardyce and Kaitlyn Haarstad
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SPARWOOD Population: 4,200 Elevation: 1,140m Incorporated: 1966 Schools: Frank J Mitchell Elementary School (K-6) and Sparwood Secondary School (7-12) Mayor: Lois Halko
Claim To Fame: The Big Green Truck Behind The Name: Tree’s selected for harvest in the area were used for spar’s on ships. A railway stop to collect the logs onto railway cars was known as Sparwood, before even a dream of the town was born.
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Who's Nearby: Fernie, BC a 20 minute drive west, Cranbrook, BC a 1.5 hr. drive west, Pincher Creek, AB a 1.0 hr. drive east, Lethbridge, AB a 2.0 hr. drive east and Calgary, AB 2.5 hr. drive northeast.
Take Action on Water Quality Teck is working with communities, First Nations and governments to create an Elk Valley Water Quality Plan that will maintain the health of the watershed—and you can help. To learn more and get involved, go to www.teck.com/ElkValley
Where the Water is
Congratulations to our photo contest winner, Chris English, on his amazing photo of the Elk River along Matevic Road.
Please remember: For those looking to take a break near the Elk Valleys pristine waters, look no further. Many river and lake side locations can be found within a short distance of Sparwood. Whether you are looking for world class fishing, or just a place to get back to nature you will be sure to find it at any one of these locations. • Elk River & Michel Creek
Fish are in abundance in the Elk River and Michel Creek in 6
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Wildlife is abundant, so be aware and use precautions. Always tell someone where you are going and a map & GPS are recommended. Wherever your travels in Sparwood bring you, leave nothing behind but your footprints.
Sparwood. Cast a line below the walking bridge located on Matevic Road or explore many more great fishing spots down the edges of these cool rivers and creeks. Let your legs take you to discover your next adventure. Photos by Jenna Jensen and Chris English
Grave Lake
A popular location with the locals Grave Lake is the perfect spot for those who like cold mountain water to take a dip on a hot day. Depending on the day, you are bound to see a vast array of wildlife, kids swimming, people fishing, and those lounging on the beach enjoying the summer sun.
• Sulphur Springs
This gem, may be tricky to find but is well worth the effort. Totally secluded in the midst of the mountain peaks and forests Sulphur Springs is a naturally warm spring of water. The sulphur smell is unmistakable, but if you don’t mind the scent many soak away all of life’s stresses in this water that is said to have many healing and health benefits. Sparwood Guide - www.thefreepress.ca
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5 reasons Jenna loves Sparwood
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Sport At Your Fingertips Jenna Jensen
Great Community Pride It is something easily recognized within the Community of Sparwood. Something that no one tries to do, but just comes naturally. Community pride can be noticed when talking to people and listening to how much they love the community, taking a walk and seeing immaculate yards and perfectly manicured lawns, and also during events and activities that are always well attended and supported by residents.
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Limitless Courses and Programs
Sparwood has a thriving sports scene with everything from adult curling to toddlers gymnastics all well attended and very popular. The baseball and soccer fields are maintained in near perfect condition while indoor sports are always played in great environments. Ball hockey, disc golf, rock climbing, swimming, horseshoes, tennis, golf and much more can be found at your fingertips within the community of Sparwood. The Big Green Truck With a fresh coat of paint, the Terex Titan looks more vibrant than ever. This truck is special not only to the residents of the community, but provides a breathtaking sight to those stopping in for a quick visit. The Titan which once worked here in the Valley now stands as Sparwood’s biggest attraction.
Whether you want to construct jewelry, go to fitness boot camp, or learn how to make authentic perogies, these and many other courses are hosted by the Sparwood Recreation Department. Over the year, hundreds of courses and programs are held for people of all ages. Children’s programs are impressive, with loads of great activities that are low in cost, while adults can always find something new to try. For more information on upcoming courses and programs visit the Sparwood Recreation Department.
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Sparwood Public Library One of my favourite things to do is curl up with a good book, thus making Sparwood Public Library on my list of some of my much loved things about Sparwood. With chairs in cozy corners and endless amounts of books, the library offers a peaceful and friendly environment. Whether you need to send a fax, use the internet, browse the latest magazine or just spend an afternoon inside the pages of a good book, the Sparwood Public Library has it all. 8
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• Affidavits • Wills • Contracts • Leases • Real Estate
Don’t miss next years
Business: (250) 425-2114 Fax: (250) 425-2204
Toll Free: 1-800-668-7729
Email: marian@gravellenotary.com
• Business Transfers
Wildcat Days! 2014 ELKFORD WILDCAT DAYS Sponsored by the District of Elkford
June 28th & 29th
• Mobile Homes • Mortgages Sponsored by:
114 Centennial Square, Sparwood, BC
Photos by Jenna Jensen
A fun Weekend for All Ages
Fortis
Fun for ever yone young, to young at heart.
We have: • Face Painting • Slow Pitch Tournament • Poker Tournament • and more!
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Calendar of Events
Discovering Sparwood THE BIG GREEN TRUCK The Terex Titan is the located in the heart of Sparwood and is the key attraction of the community. The truck is one of the largest trucks in the world, and standing beside it one cannot help but be astonished at its staggering size. The Titan was built in London, Ontario in 1973 and began its service at the Kaiser Steel iron mine in 1975 and after that was sent by train to its current home in Sparwood where it consistently hauled loads of earth exceeding 350 tonnes. In 1993 the Terex Titan retired and now sits as a public monument. THE ROOTS OF SPARWOOD Though no visual sign of Sparwood’s deep history can be seen, the roots and heritage are never forgotten. Michel, Natal and Middletown are how Sparwood really began. People from around the world travelled to this area hearing of the prospect of a coal boom and plenty of jobs. Homes, families and futures began in these newly established villages. Sparwood was built and first used to house mine bosses, but slowly many others relocated to the tiny, but growing town. Some longtime locals can still be found recalling their days and sharing stories of living in Michel, Natal or Middletown. Photo’s, artifacts and much more information can be found on these communities in the Sparwood - Michel - Natal Museum located next to the East Kootenay Community Credit Union on Aspen Drive. SPARWOODS SISTER CITY Kamisunagawa is Sparwood’s sister city. The sister city agreement to strive for economical, industrial and cultural exchange, as well endorse friendship and understanding was signed on September 23rd, 1980 by Sparwood’s former Mayor Frank Fairclough. Many artifacts and information on Kamisunagawa can be found at the District of Sparwood’s Planning and Development Office. PARKS, PARKS, EVERYWHERE Throughout the community of Sparwood beautifully kept green spaces, parks and playgrounds can be found almost everywhere. Centrally located surrounding the Sparwood Recreation Department is Sparwood’s Water Spray Park, two children’s play parks, a skate board park and bike park. Parks and green spaces can also be found at Frank J Mitchell Elementary School on Pine Ave and on Pinyon Drive and Cypress Drive in Sparwood Heights.
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Photos by Jenna Jensen, and submitted
February & March - Sparwood & District Fish & Wildlife Fundraiser March - Old Timers Hockey Tournament March - Sparwood Figure Skating Year End Show April - Arts and Culture Week (Taste of Sparwood, Dance Recital) May - Coal Miner Days Comedian Fundraiser May - Move for Health Week June 6, 7 & 8 - Coal Miner Days June - Sparwood Secondary High School Commencement June - Teck Ball Tournament July 1 - Canada Day (Children’s Festival) July & August - Farmer’s Market August 10 - Nagamma Samy Soccer Tournament September 4 - Fall Community Information & Registration Night September - Terry Fox Run September - Parkinsons SuperWalk September - Search & Rescue Open House October - Fire Prevention Week Events November - Fall Craft Fair November - Christmas Tree Lighting – Centennial Square
TAKE THIS TEST: Do you have... Yellow Teeth? Sensitive Teeth? Crooked Teeth? Broken Teeth? Bad Breath? Unwanted Space? Fear of Dentistry?
Sparwood Dental Clinic We can help you with all your dental needs.
Call: 250-425-7081, 1-877-325-7081
New Patients Welcome
139 Centennial Square, Sparwood PO Box 1330 V0B 2G0 www.sparwooddental.com
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Sparwood Golf
S
parwood Golf Club is B.C.'s eastern most golf course and a key attraction in the community. The course is always perfectly manicured and set in a backdrop of beautiful mountain scenery. Sparwood Golf Course will offer hours of challenging fun for all experience levels. The fairways are surrounded by tall pine and spruce forests and the signature hole # 7, par 3 offers an elevated tee, well bunkered green and a putting surface shaped with undulation from front to back. At the Clubhouse you will find the Green Tee restaurant with light menu 12 www.thefreepress.ca - Sparwood Guide
items. The Pro Shop at the course houses a shopping experience for every golfer to enjoy with high quality clothing, gear and gifts.
Sparwood Golf Course Offers: 9 Holes Driving Range Golf Carts Pro Shop Rentals Lessons Lounge Bar Great Rates Great Golfing Great Views
Causeway Bay Sparwood 102 Red Cedar Drive 250 425 2003 Like us on Facebook!
With numerous events and challenges throughout the year the Sparwood Golf Club will bring golf enthusiasts many challenges or simply, a relaxing day in the mountains. For those who want even more of a workout - a well defined 4.5 km trail system winds around the course presenting bikers, hikers and runners with even more of the beauty that borders the course. Photos by Jenna Jensen
CHECK OUT THE LIBRARY...
We are more than books.... WiFi Internet, Copier, Scanner, Fax...and much more. Hunter Specials Contractors Welcome Full restaurant & lounge Banquets & Special Event Hosting Wedding Packages
www.sparwood.bclibrary.ca (250) 425-2299 Sparwood Guide - www.thefreepress.ca 13
Camping in Sparwood
This beautiful campground boasts: 63 Serviced Sites Internet Hot Spot at the Office Water, Power & some Sewer Sani-Dump Handicapped Access Picnic Area Firewood Hiking Pull Through Sites Playground (New in 2008) Hot Showers (Heated Buildings) Cart Path to Golf Course Group Sites Free Wi-Fi
M
ountain Shadows Campground is nestled in a forest just minutes from downtown Sparwood. The campground runs during the summer months and is known for its true camping atmosphere, great scenery and plenty of amenities. Mountain Shadows Campground is operated and maintained by the Sparwood Futures Society and was established in 1986. Tent's, RV's and Trailers are welcome.
AIN SHADO NT
WS.ca
MOU
Full service tent/RV site in Sparwood, BC 606 Sparwood Drive - East side of Hwy 3 near Kal Tire stay@mountainshadows.ca 250-425-7815 www.mountainshadows.ca
Campground
Come visit us nestled in the embrace of the Rocky Mountains and create memories to last a lifetime . 14 www.thefreepress.ca - Sparwood Guide
Photos by Jenna Jensen
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• Coal Discovery Trail
This 32 km trail system runs from Sparwood to Fernie and offers stunning views of greater Sparwood, the Elk River and the Valley from Sparwood to Fernie. The trail starts at both Mountain Shadows Campground and the entrance to the Sparwood Golf Course. 16 www.thefreepress.ca - Sparwood Guide
o
This 4.5 km loop runs around the Sparwood Golf Course and offers much opportunity for taking in all the beauty surrounding the course. This trail starts at the entrance of the Sparwood Golf Course. All trail systems in this guide offer the chance to take in the amazing scenery, while experiencing all types of treed forests, rivers, meadows and more.
r Days R e n i M oc l a
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Hike, Bike, Walk Sparwood Trails
• Mountain Shadows Loop
• Elk River Trail
Approximately 5.5 km in distance the Elk River Trail runs parallel to the Elk River offering fantastic sightseeing opportunities. Beginning at the new Elk River Bridge and Iron Rails Crossing this 2 m wide trial is great for families and people of all ages wanting to discover the beauty surrounding Sparwood. Photos by Duane Lawrence
New Patients Welcome
Dr. A.M. Kahane
Health. Beauty. Happiness. Confidence Dr. Karl Peach 292 – 2nd Ave, Fernie, BC, V0B 1M0
dentist@kahane.ca
www.kahane.ca
Our business is built on a foundation of quality concrete & dependable service! Fernie: 250.423.7719 Sparwood: 250.425.7772
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Please remember: This course is new, and is still in some final stages of development.
Disc Golf in Sparwood T
he Sparwood Disc Golf Course, recently completed this year is a true gem of Sparwood. The track is an 18 basket course allowing users to have the option of playing the front nine, back nine or both. It is both challenging for disc golf enthusiasts and also enjoyable for people of all ages who enjoy taking
in nature as much as the sport. The course entrance can be found by heading past the Sparwood Heights Fire Hall onto the maintained gravel road, until the road ends. For those who are new to the sport, the Sparwood Recreation Department has discs available for rental.
113 Red Cedar Dr Sparwood, BC - (250) 425-6489
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Photos by Nicole Obre
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Coal Miner Days C
oal Miner Days is Sparwood's largest and most anticipated annual event celebrating the community and the coal mining heritage. The festivities draw in crowds from near and far and attract those seeking great family fun. Many events are held throughout the weekend including everything from a Lions Club Pancake Breakfast to a
kids festival, tug of war competition and street market. The community of Sparwood rallies around event coordinator Renee MacCormack offering hundreds of volunteer hours to see the event is successful. With fireworks, a parade, bed races, shows and attractions of all kinds, Coal Miner Days is Sparwood's event of the year.
ONE
slow truck driver can reduce fleet productivity by
25%
How much would this cost you? Following the recent acquisition of RW Consulting and Training Services Ltd, CAE Mining now delivers on-the-job operator training with over 30 qualified trainers located all over the world. Our tailored programs for open pit and underground equipment improve the average performance of operators, increasing fleet productivity and reducing costs. Contact us today. E: caemining@cae.com W: www.cae.com/mining
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Photos by Nicole Obre
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Their first concrete pour was at the top of a new lift at Fernie Alpine Resort. Since then, Garrett
Garrett Ready Mix
Drs. Kahane, Dr. Jensen, Dr. Peach and our team of professionals are committed to providing superior dental and orthodontic care to our patients in a comfortable and friendly environment.
Dr. A.M. Kahane
The Causeway Bay Hotel and Conference Centre in Sparwood offers 83 deluxe rooms & over 5,400 square feet of meeting space. All rooms have hair dryers and in-room coffee makers, microwaves, refrigerators, and high speed internet. We have a selection of King, double, single beds, and some rooms with jetted tubs. Most rooms are non smoking, & we are Pet Friendly. 102A Red Cedar Drive Sparwood, British Columbia V0B 2G0 www.causewaybayhotels.ca/sparwood 1-250425-2003.
Causeway Bay Hotel
CAE Mining now delivers on-the-job operator training with over 30 qualified trainers located all over the world. Their tailored programs for open pit and underground equipment improve the average performance of operators, increasing fleet productivity and reducing costs.
CAE Mining
A tenting and RV/trailer site situated near Highway #3 and nestled in a cozy forested
Mountain Shadows Campground
The Elk Valley’s most experienced mechanics. For all of your personal automotive, commercial and industrial repair needs.
Mountain Mechanical
The premier trusted Notary in the Elk Valley located at 114 Centennial Square in Sparwood (250) 425-2114 marian@gravellenotary.com.
Marian B. Gravelle Notary Corporation
John Pundyk is one of the leading realtors in southern Alberta. He has been selling real estate in the Crowsnest Pass and surrounding areas for the past 10 years.
John Pundyk
The Elk Valley’s Chartered Accountants specializing in income tax reduction strategies for business and individuals as well as other business accounting needs.
GPI Chartered Accountants
Ready Mix has supplied concrete for two more ski lifts, hotels, lodges, and other residential and commercial projects supporting the influx of workers and tourists.
Adver tisers Index
22 www.thefreepress.ca - Sparwood Guide A weekly newspaper serving Fernie, Sparwood, Elkford and the South Country since 1898. Published every Thursday and can be viewed online at www.thefreepress. ca.
The Free Press
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Teck is the largest employer in the Elk Valley with over 3,700 employees and five mines including Coal Mountain, Elkview, Fording River, Greenhills and Line Creek.
Teck
The Sparwood Public Library is a non-profit society run by an elected board of directors. It is open Tuesday to Saturday and located, at 110 Pine Avenue in Sparwood, B.C. 250-425-2299 sparwood.bclibrary.ca.
Sparwood Public Library
We are a dental practice devoted to restoring and enhancing the natural beauty of your smile using conservative, state-of-the-art procedures that will result in beautiful, long lasting smiles, minutes from downtown Sparwood.
Sparwood Dental
Overwaitea Foods has been serving and supporting B.C. communities for over 95 years. We’re B.C.’s very own food people – your very own food people, since 1915.
Overwaitea Sparwood
setting just minutes from downtown Sparwood.
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Photos courtesy of the District of Elkford, Pat Allardyce and Jenna Jensen
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