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Members of Crowsnest Community Choir and Crowsnest Symphony Orchestra held a special Christmas Concert on Dec. 4 at Horace Allen School. Directed

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BC Employment receives complaint against Fernie’s Tim Hortons

By Tamara Hynd Fernie Free Press

A complaint has been filed with B.C. Employment Standards Branch against the owner of Fernie Tim Hortons by former employees Richard Pepito and Heidi Kibanoff. The couple was hired under Canada’s Temporary Foreign Worker Program by Pierre Pelletier, owner of the Fernie and Crowsnest Pass franchises.

Allegations include Pelletier making employees pay back a portion their overtime wages to him in cash. Pelletier is also accused of charging employees the processing fees for renewing their temporary work permits, which according to regulations, the employer is responsible for paying.

“We’re reviewing the allegations and can say

that we are treating the matter seriously and are currently conducting a review in full cooperation with B.C. Employment Standards,” commented Tim Horton’s Public Affairs Manager, Olga Petryci.

The East Kootenay Labour Council is assisting the couple with the case.

Alex Hanson, executive for the Council said, “We were told they weren’t getting over-time on their regular paycheck. The employer would pay their overtime on a separate cheque, drive them to the bank to cash it, then ask for some of the cash back telling them it was for their own good.

The problem is the employers have too much power over their employees,” said Hanson.

“They come here to obtain a better life and the employer is the gatekeeper.

“The Labour Council is not going away until the owner makes it right.”

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David Currie, Public Affairs Officer Ministry of Jobs, Tourism and Skills Training and Minister Responsible for Labour said “There is an open complaint against the Tim Hortons in Fernie. However under the Employment Standards Act the ministry does not comment on open Employment Standards complaints.”

Worker’s complaints made to the Employment Standards Branch can go through the four routes of resolution, mediation, adjudication and/or penalty.

Pepito and Kibanoff’s case is scheduled to go before an adjudicator on Feb. 13, 2014 in Kelowna. At that time, penalties may or may not be levied.

“We have been cooperating since the allegations have come up and are continuing to fully cooperate with B.C. Employment Standards,” said Kristine Hovind–Pelletier, Pierre Pelletier’s wife in a statement to The Free Press.

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Thursday, December 12, 2013 Crowsnest Pass Free Press

Family of five submerged in Elk River in motor vehicle accident

By Tamara Hynd Fernie Free Press

The Crowsnest Pass Symphony, one of the oldest in the province, brought another entertaining and moving selection of Christmas songs to local music lovers.

Photo by J. MacFarlane

Head of Public Works to retire

By Joni MacFarlane Editor

Frank Besinger, Director of Planning, Engineering & Operations for Crowsnest Pass announced his retirement on Friday, Dec. 6.

Besinger said he would stay on with the municipality until the end of March 2014 to see some of the municipality’s major projects through.

“I want to stay through

the process for recruiting and help someone into the role,” he told The Free Press.

He said he also believes his experience and knowledge will be helpful during the 2014 budget discussions as well as seeing the Disaster Flood Recovery Program underway to ensure work is done before next spring’s runoff.

Besinger has land in the Valleyview area, east of Grande Prairie. The land has

been leased out for the past few years, but Besinger said he’s looking forward to living there and relaxing after many years of working.

Besinger started with the municipality in February 2012.

Besinger’s resignation follows on the heels of the Chief Administrative Officer, Myron Thompson, who is leaving his position shortly before Christmas.

A father and his three children under the age of 10 are recovering from their injuries after a traffic accident thanks to the quick assistance of a Fernie man on Sunday, Dec. 1.

A family of five was travelling eastbound returning home to Coaldale, Alberta when their vehicle left Highway 3, plunging into an arm of the Elk River.

The vehicle, a white Chevrolet minivan, came to rest upside down in the water.

A passing motorist and his girlfriend went down into the river and rescued all five occupants from the mini-van.

At approximately 2:30 p.m., Elk Valley RCMP from Fernie and East Kootenay Traffic Services (EKTS) responded to the collision on Highway 3 about eight km west of Fernie known as Vanghal’s straight stretch.

“Witnesses at the scene and RCMP members engaged in CPR on the female passenger but tragically, she was pronounced dead at the Fernie Hospital,” said Elk Valley RCMP. “RCMP members and a traveling physician managed to revive the four-year-old child by con-

ducting CPR. The male driver and one of his children were treated at Sparwood Hospital with minor injuries including hypothermia.

The other two children were transported to Alberta Children’s Hospital by air ambulance with severe injuries.”

The Fernie man who helped rescue the family was treated for hypothermia and released.

RCMP is in contact with the young man who is asking for his privacy.

Sgt. Don Erichsen commented on the Fernie man’s heroic actions.

“It’s an extremely traumatic situation and he risked his own life to help. One person did die and when you stand that close to death that’s a large cross for any one to bear. He is asking for privacy at this time.”

Road conditions at the time of the collision were slushy on the center of the roadway way due to an overnight snowfall.

In the initial investigation, it appears that the minivan may have been attempting a pass and lost control on the slushy center area of the straight stretch of roadway.

An investigation into the collision is continuing.

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Crowsnest Pass Free Press Thursday, December 12, 2013

Student elected mayor Submitted

My name is Nathan Milford and I am in Grade six at Isabelle Sellon School.

This year as part of Social Studies, each grade six class held elections at the same time as the Crowsnest Pass Municipal elections.

I ran for mayor in our class and our town’s name is Riverstone.

We went to the voting station and saw what happened while people came and got their ballots.

I was elected mayor of Riverstone and four of my classmates, Kennedy, Kyler, Alan, and Alice were elected as councillors by my classmates.

Since then, we have had a town hall meeting and five council meetings.

We have had to make decisions about building a resort that costs $1,295,240 in our town and wheth-

Grade 6 student Nathan Milford was elected Mayor of the town of Riverstone and has been involved in high-level decisions having significant ramifications. The elections were held in conjunction with those of the Municipality of Crowsnest Pass.

Submitted photo

er to evacuate to get at the oil under our town.

We had three council meetings and voted on three by-laws meant to keep our citizens safe.

I have enjoyed this activity in our class, it has taught me a lot about running a town and how government works.

On Dec. 3, I went to a municipal council meeting and got to see firsthand how our municipal council works. They go through a lot of information before making decisions.

After the meeting I was addressed by Mayor Blair Painter and got a picture taken with Mayor Painter and the councillors. I shook hands with council and got a pin.

John Barlow seeks PC nomination

By Joni MacFarlane Editor

munity for 20-some years, so I’m just going to take this to a different platform. I’ve built my reputation on integrity. I firmly believe I have a strong The fourth candidate for federal reputation in my area.” representation of the Macleod riding “As a journalist, you have your finger believes his experience and community on the pulse of your community, you involvement will give him an edge as know what the issues are, you know Ottawa’s representative. who the sources are,” John Barlow who cursaid Barlow. “I’ve built rently works as the associsome very strong netate publisher and editor of works of sources and the Okotoks-based Western at all levels of governWheel newspaper, announced ments... When I get to his intention to seek the that point I’ll know Conservative Party’s nominawho to contact and tion for the federal riding of I’ll have relationships Macleod with the retirement with those key people of current MP Ted Menzies. already in place.”

Barlow’s previous political Barlow said he foray into politics was in 2012 admired Ted Menzies when he ran as the Progressive and the impact he Conservative candidate in the made in Ottawa.

Highwood constituency. He “He showed with a ran against Danielle Smith, strong work ethic and leader of the Wildrose Party, strong character, he finishing second.

“It definitely gave me some John Barlow currently works as associate publisher and editor of the built himself up to the vital knowledge into how the Okotoks-based Western Whell newspaper and is seeking the Con- Minister,” he said. “It just goes to prove that election process works, but servative nomination for the Macleod riding.

I think the most important Submitted photo if you’re dedicated and committed, you can part was the connections and have an impact and the networks I was able to develop through that process,” he said. culture industry in terms of supply- that’s exactly what I intend to do.”

Barlow grew up in Saskatchewan and “I had phenomenal response, and even management and ensuring access to has been in Alberta for about 25 years though I wasn’t successful, we had new markets.

“I want to eliminate some of the first in High River where he worked for some outstanding support and that support comes to the forefront with this obstacles for getting our value-added the High River Times and currently in products to international markets,” he Okotoks. He is married with three chilcampaign.” dren ages 15, 20 and 22.

Barlow said he’s chosen now to run at said.

There are currently four candidates Another area Barlow wants addressed the federal level because he sees issues is streamlined access to the temporary seeking the Conservative nomination that need to be addressed.

“I think I have the skill set and foreign worker process so industries for Macleod. A by-election must be the experience to be a strong voice in who rely on the program have easier held within six months of outgoing MP Ted Menzies announcement to Ottawa but I want to make sure some access.

As a journalist, Barlow also believes retire. At this point, the date of the bythings I’ve seen through the provincial process, through my work as a journal- his experience gives him a good skill set. election hasn’t been set.

“I’ve been a strong voice for my comist, get done,” he said.

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“First and foremost I want to make sure that southern Alberta isn’t forgotten in terms of flood recovery and flood mitigation,” said Barlow. “I want to make sure that in Ottawa funding is still available to complete some of these recovery projects.”

Barlow also sees issues in the agri-

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The Ladies of the C.N.P. Royal Purple Lodge #15 would like to thank the vendors and all who attended our Christmas Craft Sale.

Also to all members and non-members & Brother Elks who helped in any way to make this a very successful event.

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Thursday, December 12, 2013 Crowsnest Pass Free Press

Opinion

Phone: 250-509-0177 Email: publisher@cnpfreepress.ca For news tips, community, sporting and other events, please contact Joni MacFarlane at 403-563-7725 or email: joni.macfar@gmail.com

Crowsnest Pass works together Once again, Crowsnest Pass has shown what it can do when it works together for the good of the community. Although it’s not a slam-dunk, advancing to the semi-finals in a contest that would give money to the Pass Powderkeg Ski Hill is a coup we should all be proud of.

The contest includes so many worthwhile causes - helping children, seniors, wildlife - I’m glad I’m not one of the judges deciding who wins and who doesn’t.

But getting this far sends a clear signal that residents and others who believe in the potential of the Crowsnest Pass can come together to help the community.

What a chair lift would do for the Pass Powderkeg is immeasurable. Striving to be one of Alberta’s best family ski resorts, the hill offers local youth and families an opportunity to stay active and socialize in the great outdoors.

Researchers have shown a demonstrable link between physical activity and children’s performance in school.

Then there’s our burgeoning tendency towards obesity with almost a third of Canadians aged five to 17 classified as overweight or obese, according to Statistics Canada. This is a real public health concern given the tendency for excess weight in childhood to persist through to adulthood.

Having an affordable ski hill on our doorstep is one more reason to get out and get physical – for all of us.

As a facility geared towards families and youth, the Pass Powderkeg is a wonderful opportunity to learn the sport of skiing and snowboarding, to make new friends, and to enjoy those long winter months – all at a reasonable cost.

Voting closed on Dec. 11 and the finalist ideas will be announced on Jan. 28.

There are so many organizations, groups and individuals in the Crowsnest Pass who give of their resources and time, it is truly inspiring to see the generosity of a community working together to help us become better.

Kudos to all of you.

The Crowsnest Pass Free Press welcomes letters to the editor that are of interest to our community.

Whatever the subject, there are a few basic guidelines to follow before Crowsnest Pass Free Press will publish your comment.

• Letters must be received by 4 p.m. Thursday for the following week’s paper.

• One letter per person per month.

• Letters should be typed or neatly written and present the issues as clearly as possible in 350 words or less.

• All letters must contain the name, address and signature of the writer, and a phone number where they may be reached during business hours.

• Anonymous letters will not be published and pen names may not be used, except in exceptional circumstances at the discretion of the editor.

• The editor reserves the right to edit for length, clarity or reject letters over matters of libel, legality, taste or style.

Letters published do not necessarily reflect the editorial policy or belief of this newspaper.

Man still missing from Pincher Creek

By Joni MacFarlane Editor

Pincher Creek RCMP said the ground search for missing 22-yearold Taylor Elliott has been called off.

On Friday, Dec. 6, police said that until the ground cover changes or until further clues come up, the search has come to an end.

Elliott disappeared on foot without a trace in the early morning hours of Sunday, Dec. 1 just as a snow storm warning enveloped southern Alberta. Since then, the area has been plagued with extreme temperatures and severe wind with blowing snow.

Pincher Creek Search and Rescue were joined by members from the Calgary Search and Rescue team, Southeastern Alberta Search and Rescue from Medicine Hat and Lethbridge Area Search and Rescue.

On Friday, crews conducted grid searches on foot in areas north and

Twenty-two-year-old Taylor Elliott has been missing from the Pincher Creek area since Sunday, Dec. 1. Anyone with any information on his whereabouts is asked to contact RCMP. Submitted photo

west of Pincher Creek. RCMP police dogs were also called in to assist in the search as well as Alberta’s RCMP helicopter.

While the Pincher Creek RCMP have suspended the ground search, family and friends are still out looking for him. Their search effort is based at the Pincher Creek Golf Course Club House.

A website and Facebook page have been started to help raise awareness and assist with the search.

Elliott is described as 6-feet tall weighing 190 pounds with dark hair and a full beard. He was last seen wearing a tan Carhartt jacket, blue jeans, a dark hoodie and carrying a medium-sized grey camouflaged backpack and a .270 rifle.

Anyone with information on Elliott’s whereabouts is asked to call the RCMP Pincher Creek detachment at 403-627-6000.

Free Press

the

Crowsnest Pass

12707, 20 Avenue, Blairmore, AB T0K 0E0 • 250-509-0177 Chris Hopkyns, Publisher Email: publisher@cnpfreepress.com

Published weekly each Thursday by The Crowsnest Pass Free Press, a division of Black Press Group Ltd. and distributed throughout the Crowsnest Pass. Free circulation, 1,700.

Chris Hopkyns PUBLISHER/SALES

Joni MacFarlane

REPORTER/EDITOR

Bridget Fix

PRODUCTION

Crowsnest Pass Free Press Thursday, December 12, 2013

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Public advised to use caution near Grassy Mountain Mine project Press Release

Riversdale Resources Limited (Riversdale) would like to inform the community that it will be commencing drilling operations on its Grassy Mountain Project, approximately six kilometres north of Blairmore, starting the week of Dec. 9.

This is an exciting milestone for the Grassy Mountain Project and marks the commencement of ground based activities under Riversdale ownership.

The initial drill program involves the drilling of 15 to 20 holes and is expected to take about three months.

This will be followed in 2014 with a more extensive drilling program and other ground based activities.

Throughout this program, there will be heavy trucks and other large equipment on both the road access to the project known as the Grassy Mountain Road and across the Grassy Mountain Project area.

The use of larger equipment increases the risk of incidents involving vehicles travelling on the Grassy Mountain Road and the project area.

To ensure the community is fully informed of the location of activities, Riversdale has placed signs along the Grassy Mountain Road indicating where they are taking place. In the interests of the safety of the community and the employees/contractors of Riversdale, we ask that the community limit the use of the Grassy Mountain Road where possible so as to reduce the risk of incident.

A safety person will be monitoring the Grassy Mountain trail to advise users of the current activity as it happens. Should there be a need to use the access road, we ask that speed be reduced and extra caution be taken.

As the activities on the project ramp up in 2014, Riversdale may implement additional safety controls on and near the project area to further manage the risk of incidents between the community, recreational users and Riversdale’s activities. Riversdale will keep the community informed at all times.

If anyone has any questions or concerns, please contact Riversdale either at the Blairmore Office (1233120th Ave.) or call (403) 753 5160.

GOT A NEWS TIP OR STORY YOU’D LIKE COVERED? CALL 403-563-7725 OR EMAIL joni.macfar@gmail.com

Left: Desiree Simoneau, manager of the Crowsnest Pass Food Bank, accepted a donation of $75from the Crowsnest Pass Chamber of Commerce. The funds were raised through the sale of decorated trees at the Chamber’s Christmas in the Mountains Dance.

Right: First prize winner in the Parade of Lights during Christmas in the Mountains was Rhonda Waldner from Hillcrest who took home $500 cash.

Submitted photos

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Thursday, December 12, 2013 Crowsnest Pass Free Press

Crowsnest Pass Free Press Thursday, December 12, 2013

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Thursday, December 12, 2013 Crowsnest Pass Free Press

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Students at Isabelle Sellon School place their orders for books and activity games at the Book Fair on Nov. 28. The annual Book Fair is open to everyone and raises money for the school’s library.

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HR position deferred to new CAO

By Joni MacFarlane Editor For the second time so far in this council’s term, the position of Human Resources Administrator was deferred.

At the Dec. 3 council meeting, Chief Administrative Officer Myron Thompson brought the issue to the table with a recommendation that the position be reincorporated into the municipality’s organizational structure so that it could be filled in the new year.

Hiring a human resources administrator was highlighted in both the recently completed municipal inspection conducted by the province and the recently completed Workplace Assessment initiated

Municipal appointments

By Joni MacFarlane Editor Council made a number of appoint-

by the union representing municipal staff.

Twenty-five per cent of that report’s recommendations were dependent upon the position. A letter of support from the union accompanied Thompson’s recommendation.

In the past, a Director position reporting to the CAO was in place but this position was cut from the organizational structure along with the HR Clerk in 2012, said Thompson.

Several councillors offered their opinion that although they support the addition of an HR person, they believe the incoming Chief Administrative Officer should undertake it.

“I don’t feel we should be making any changes to the organizational structure

ments on Dec. 3 to various municipal boards and committees.

They are as follows: Agriculture Services Board – Christopher Smith (2-year term)

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Culture & Heritage Committee – Tyler Folkard (3-year term) Community Economic Development & Tourism Advisory Committee – Chad Petrone (3-year term)

until we have a new CAO in place. We need to bring that person in and take a look at what we’ve got, what our needs are, and have it brought back to council,” said Councillor Dean Ward. “I don’t think we should build that person’s team.”

“As much as I know there’s a need for this person and believe me, I do, I do have to agree with Councillor Ward,” said Councillor Dave Filipuzzi. “I think because of [Thompson] leaving and the challenges facing a new CAO, we should start there and see what his direction is and get his feel on it too.”

A motion to leave the organizational structure as is until a new CAO was in place was carried.

and Lynnette Jessop (3-year interim term) Family & Community Support Services Board – Leslie McCallum (3-year term) and Lindsey Douglas (3-year term)

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Municipality of CNP Library Board – Cathy Pierzchala (3-year term) and Pam Hellevang (3-year term) Municipal Planning Commission – Tim Juhlin (3-year term) Community Policing Committee – Derek Medland (3-year term) Pass Powderkeg Ski Hill Society – Henry Bruns (3-year term) Sports & Recreation Committee - Derek Medland (3-year term) and Cameron Willoughby (3-year term).

Vacancies are still available for the Agriculture Services Board, CNP Senior Housing Board, Community Policing Committee, Municipal Planning C o m m i s s i o n , M u n i c i p a l Subdivision & Development Appeal Board, Culture & Heritage Committee and the Community E c o n o m i c Development & Tourism Advisory Committee.

Deadline for submissions has been extended to Dec. 27.

Crowsnest Pass Free Press Thursday, December 12, 2013

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Volunteers from Mountain Radio, Bridge City Chrysler and the Crowsnest Pass Food Bank accepted donations for their annual Pack the Pickup at Blairmore Sobey’s on Saturday, Dec. 7.

Photo by J. MacFarlane

Fire/Rescue briefs

By Joni MacFarlane Editor

For the month of November, Crowsnest Pass Fire/ Rescue Department responded to 10 calls for service. They included: On Nov. 1, fire/rescue staff responded to a single vehicle that rolled and wedged into the A&W sign at the Fas Gas station in Frank. Fuel and antifreeze spilled onto the ground.

Seven staff responded for traffic control and clean-up.

On Nov. 3, fire/rescue staff responded to a tractortrailer that spun out

of control west of Coleman. Five staff were called by RCMP to assist with traffic control.

On Nov. 3, a backcountry rescue was called in at the same time as the tractor-trailer incident.

Hunters who had hired a guide were presumed lost in the York Creek area near the old plane crash. The hunters walked out while the guide continued looking for them.

One search manager responded and no injuries were reported.

On Nov. 5, fire/rescue staff responded to an incident when a vehicle hit and sheared the

gas line on the back of the Cosmopolitan Hotel in Blairmore.

Nineteen responders were called out. Three engines were staged on two corners and a third was staged on the rear due to the size of the building. There were no injuries.

On Nov. 16, nine fire/rescue staff responded to an incident in the Frank Industrial area. A propane tank had been dumped off and opened releasing gas into the air.

On Nov. 19, four fire/rescue staff were dispatched for traffic control when a vehicle hit the ditch west of Coleman.

Police briefs

By Joni MacFarlane Editor

Between Nov. 27 and Dec. 3, Crowsnest Pass RCMP responded to 50 calls for service.

They included: Assault: 2 Threats/Harassment: 2 Mischief/Vandalism: 1 Theft: 2 Impaired Driving: 1 24-Hr Driving Suspension: 1 Disturbing Peace: 1 Driving Complaints: 10 MV Collisions: 7 S u s p i c i o u s Occurrences: 2 Assistance to General Public: 5 Assistance to Other Agencies: 8 False Alarms: 4 911 Calls (invalid) 3 Municipal Bylaws: 1 Prisoners held: 2 Copper bandit On Nov. 27 at 11

a.m., police received a complaint from a TransCanada employee about theft of copper wire stolen from Burton Creek compressor station on Highway 22. The break-in occurred sometime between Nov. 17 and 19.

Estimated value was unknown. The matter is under investigation.

complaint of a possible impaired driver leaving Bellevue. The suspect vehicle was located in Coleman and a 24-year-old male from Crowsnest Pass was arrested. Two breath samples were obtained and he was charged with impaired driving.

A court date of Jan. 7 has been set.

Hit & run I On Nov. 27 at 12:40 a.m., police received a complaint of a hit and run to a parked vehicle at 119 St. and 20 Ave. Blairmore. A 2004 Ford F250 truck was damaged. The incident is under investigation and police are looking for a red/maroon truck.

Domestic assault On Nov. 29 at 11:35 p.m., police received a complaint of domestic assault at a Coleman residence. The 33-yearold male suspect had left the residence before police arrived but he was later arrested and released on conditions to appear in court. A court date of Dec. 10 was set.

Impaired On Nov. 28 at 11:50 p.m., police received a

Young driver On Nov. 30 at 10:45 p.m., while on patrol,

Both lanes of Highway 3 were temporarily closed while the vehicle was removed.

On Nov. 19, 12 fire/rescue staff responded to assist motorists after Highway 3 was closed west of Coleman due to severe weather conditions.

On Nov. 20, 13 fire/rescue staff responded to a smoke alarm at a Blairmore residence.

The smoke was caused by a popcorn cooking incident.

On Nov. 23, 13 fire/rescue staff responded to a smoke alarm at a Coleman residence. A pan had been left on the stove.

Crow Works Engraving hosted a Chamber “After Hours” for Crowsnest Pass Chamber of Commerce members on Dec. 6 followed by an open house in celebration of iits 10th anniversary.

Photo by J. MacFarlane

Career Opportunity

On Nov. 24, a backcountry rescue was called after police received a call of a stranded snowmobiler.

A 30-year-old male from Calgary was sledding when his machine broke down.

He was inexperienced, it was his first time out, he had no survival gear and was alone. Six responders were sent to the York Creek staging area and 11 remained available for other calls.

The subject was located south of Coleman with no injuries.

Residents are advised that a fee of $425/hour/vehicle may be charged by responders in backcountry incidents.

AutOmOtive SAleS COnSultAnt Due to a strong demand for Ford automobiles, we have an immediate opening for a sales specialist to sell new and used vehicles.

The successful candidate will be energetic, personable and have a strong commitment to exceptional customer service.

We offer product training, above average pay plan, strong management support and operate in a friendly, respectful environment.

Please contact George Westholme at 403.627.4461 or email gwolstenholme@castlefordsales.com

835 Waterton Ave., Pincher Creek

www.castleford.ca

the girls at police stopped a vehicle for speeding on Highway 3 in Frank.

Police detected an odour of liquor on the breath of the 19-yearold male driver from Crowsnest Pass. He provided a breath sample of .025 and had his graduated drivers’ licence suspended for 30 days and his vehicle seized for 30 days. There is a zero tolerance for GDL drivers.

Street fighting man On Dec. 1 at 6 a.m., police received a complaint of three males fighting in the Tim Horton’s parking lot. Police believe they have the identity of the suspects and the incident is under investigation.

Hit & run II On Dec. 2 at 9 a.m.,

police received a report of a hit and run to a vehicle parked at 122 St. and 19 Ave. Blairmore.

The incident occurred on Dec. 1 about 11:30 p.m. A 2010 Dodge Journey was damaged.

A 34-year-old male from Blairmore was located and charged with mischief. A court date of Jan. 21 was set.

Hit & run III On Dec. 27 at 1 p.m., police received a report of a hit and run to a vehicle parked at 81 St. and 19 Ave. Coleman.

A 2005 Subaru Legacy was damaged. The incident is under investigation.

Provincial court in Pincher Creek was cancelled due to inclement weather on Dec. 2 and 3. Docket matters were set over to Dec. 10.

look forward to seeing you

doterra essential oils have arrived Gifts Baskets for Christmas

evening appointments available

rumorssalonandspa@hotmail.ca 403-904-1999 763 Main Street, Pincher Creek, AB

10

Thursday, December 12, 2013 Crowsnest Pass Free Press

COMMUNITY CALENDAR

Start your Year off with the Right Smile Now Accepting new patients at Crowsnest Dental

DECEMBER 14 – Christmas Bazzar, a special event for all children, will be held at the Compass

Crowsnest Dental

12513 - 21 Avenue, Blairmore, AB Phone: 877-542-2236 crowsnestdental@abledentalgroup.com

DECEMBER 15 – Bellecrest Association presents Santa in the Park at the Bellevue Legion from 1 p.m. to 3 p.m. Everyone is welcome.

DECEMBER 18 - The Metis Nation of Alberta Local Council Chinook 1880 holds a monthly meeting and Christmas get-together from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. at the Pincher Creek Provincial Building.

Please use east access. For more info. Contact 403-627-1884 or email chinooklocal1880@hotmail.com.

DomesTic Bliss lifesTyle managemenT & concierge services

• personal assistant • homemaking • organizing • events WE ARE HERE • holiday planning • errands • gift certificates

s

c

GIVE THETO GIFT OF TIME wsnest pas ro

domestic bliss

403-563-8829 403-563-8829 If youneed need itit- we do itdo it If you - we

www.domesticblisscnp.com

* holiday planning * errands * gift certificates

Baby Lock Machines

• BMP8 Professional Embroidery Machine - new includes all accessories to start a business • Ellageo Sewing/Embroidery (BLL) demo • Pro-line Serger (BL-07) - new • Imagine Serger (BL1AT) - air threading - demo • Elizabeth Sewing Machine (BL200A) new • Quilter’s Pro Sewing/Serging Machine (BLQP) - Demo • Grace Sewing Machine (BL40) - new includes extension table

Arrow Sewing Cabinets

• Gidget II Portable Sewing & Craft Table - New • Olivia Sewing Cabinet & Sewing Chair (Pistachio green) - new

Machine Luggage • Tutto 17’’ - new • Tutto 20’’ - new • Serger Trolly - new

Please call (403)563-7714 or (403)563-6438 for further details and pricing

Carry emergency equipment in your vehicle such as a cell phone, an emergency candle, blankets, booster cables, and flashlight, tow strap or tow rope. If you have troubles on the road, stay with your vehicle, do not wonder off to look for help.

Road Closures Early into this winter season, we have had two road closures due to heavy snowfall and gusting winds. These events make whiteout conditions on the highway and travelling unsafe. Under the direction of the Minister of Transportation who orders the road closure, Crowsnest Pass Fire/Rescue supports the Minister by providing personnel and equipment to man the closure gate and control traffic within the Crowsnest Pass.

If we have weather events

Printer 101 from Mountain Ink What is HP Cartridge Protection?

If you’ve purchased an HP Printer, you might notice that the printer won’t allow you to install your compatible and remanufactured cartridge. Is HP trying to block you from using these supplies? Not exactly.

On the new HP printers, HP introduced a Cartridge Protection feature that is designed to protect against counterfeit products posing as genuine HP supplies.

Unfortunately, it often has the side effect of blocking less expensive compatible and remanufactured supplies.

We’ll show you how to disable it with a few simple steps.

What is it?

HP’s Cartridge Protection feature first started appearing with the HP OfficeJet Pro 8600; it soon began appearing in the Photosmart 5520 series, among others.

As we said, it is designed as a protection against counterfeit products masquerading as Genuine HP products. This system will alert users that the cartridge is not genuine, and

www.domesticblisscnp.com

Blow-out Prices

The Pass Pottery Club displayed a variety of eclectic and traditional tableware and art works at their annual Christmas sale on Dec. 7.

Photo by J. MacFarlane

Before heading out, remember these safety tips

CNP Protective Services Submitted

is not equipped * Food and Water (energy bars, chocolate, dried fruit, nuts.)

If you plan to visit the * First Aid Kit Backcountry and take part in * Water Proof matches and snowmobile or quadding activ- fire starter ities, please be sure to pack for If you are heading to the climate and terrain.

Avalanche prone areas, check Plan ahead, plan your routes with www.avalanche.ca for and let someone know where details before you head out. you will be or the general area Winter Driving of your trip. Below are some After a nice spring and sumof the items that you should mer of paved roads, it’s time pack along for the ride.

MAKE YOUR LIFE EASIER again for the winter season. * Global Positioning System This means have you winter (GPS) tires installed on your vehicles * Shovel and drive LIFESTYLE MANAGEMENT & with caution. * Map of the area Winter tires should have the CONCIERGE SERVICESsnow flake symbol on the side * Compass * Extra Gloves and Socks * wall and can also be studded. * personal assistant Flashlight with spare batteries Slow down further in advance * Hand and Foot Warmers for intersections or stop signs, * homemaking * Emergency Blanket/Shelter give extra room between you * organizing * Knife and the vehicle in front and * Rope behind in case any of you have * events * Small tool kit if your machine to stop in a hurry.

The gifT of Time We are here To make your life easier

DECEMBER 13 - The Crowsnest Pass Youth Group (Four Twelve – YOUth) is hosting a community concert as a fundraiser for two local families, the Murray’s and the Goods. The concert will feature musical and artistic performances and is at the Crowsnest Christian Centre Church in Coleman at 7 p.m. There is a $5 entrance fee and children under 12 are free. A donation coffee bar with home-baked treats and festive beverages will be set up and after the program, a bake and Christmas craft sale will be held. All the funds raised will go to the Murrays and the Goods.

Centre (2029-130 St. Blairmore) from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Come and pick out gifts for your parents and siblings for a small donation.

Wrapping on site. Hot drinks, treats for parents while you visit. All donations will go towards the Compass 2014 Orphanage Mission Trip.

it will also block the cartridge from being used. This is good news for identifying counterfeits.

However, it’s an aggravation for users who are blocked from using their legitimate remanufactured and compatible ink cartridges. We’ve covered the many benefits of remanufactured ink cartridges before, and for buyers looking to save money, this can be a real problem.

Disabling Cartridge Protection When trying to use remanufactured ink cartridges with these models, the best solution is to disable Cartridge Protection. If you later wish to verify that a cartridge labeled as a Genuine HP product is actually genuine, you can always re-enable the feature.

Here are the steps.

1. Click the Start button, and click Devices and Printers.

2. Find your HP printer in the list and double-click it to open the Settings page.

3. Click the text for Estimated Ink Levels under the heading of Shopping Resources. This will open the HP Toolbox window.

4. Click the tab for Cartridge Protection.

5. Click the radio button next to Disable HP Cartridge Protection.

6. Click the Save Setting button to save your new setting.

Then, close the window.

7. You may need to remove and reinstall the cartridge for it to be recognized properly.

Disabling Cartridge Protection on a Network Printer If your printer is connected via network, rather than a USB port, you can still disable the feature, just follow these steps: 1. Click the Start button, and click Devices and Printers.

2. Find your HP printer in the list and right-click it, then look for the IP address in the Location field.

3. Copy and paste the IP address into your web browser and hit Enter. The embedded web server for your printer should open, with several options to change.

4. Click the Settings tab at the top, then click Cartridge Protection in the left column.

5.

Click the radio but-

starting in our area, please log onto www.crowsnestpass.com and look for the road closure information or updates on possible road closures.

Early warning can give residents on the other side of the gates able to have children picked up from school and get home before the closure happens.

Designated parking has been established with large trucks without Dangerous Goods able to park on 20th Avenue from the Lost Lemmon Bridge to Tim Horton’s and also utilizing 107 Street by the old hospital site working back towards Tim Horton’s. Trucks hauling Dangerous Goods are instructed to stage at the large parking lot in Frank or back to the Burmis Scales.

ton next to Disable Cartridge Protection, and click Apply. You can now close the browser.

6. You may need to remove and reinstall the cartridge for it to be recognized properly.

While the HP Cartridge Protection setting is useful for identifying counterfeit printer supplies, it goes a bit too far in blocking users trying to save money with remanufactured and compatible supplies.

Luckily, you can disable the setting using the steps above, and if you ever suspect you have a counterfeit supply, just re-enable the setting in order to test it properly.

Mountain Ink is your local supplier of printer equipment, brand name & compatible ink & toner cartridges, office supplies and also offers fax, copy and printing services. You can find us at PO Box 508, 2722 216 St Bellevue AB T0K 0C0.

For more information or if you have a question or specific topic you would like discussed in this column, contact MJ sales@ mountainink.ca, 403.564.4303, find us on Facebook, follow us on Twitter.

Crowsnest Pass Free Press Thursday, December 12, 2013

11

I’ll do it tomorrow

By Linda Germo Changes

“I’ll do it tomorrow is a common refrain. (And tomorrow never comes, we all know that.)

I kept saying it, about getting my health in order, getting my weight in check and before I knew it......60 pounds had crept onto my body! Where the heck did that fat come from?

I wasn’t eating junk food, in fact, I was hardly eating!

I was working 14 hours plus everyday, so when did I have time to sit down to eat?

I would start my day with a bowl of cereal, or a slice of toast and run out the door making sure my family was looked after, then off to my salons to make sure my staff and clients were looked after....never looking

after me! Dinner might be a salad, an apple and a piece of cheese. On days off, I would eat normally, and sometimes overeat.

Finally my body ran out of fuel and collapsed, and then I had to pay attention. Eating only a few calories a day, I thought it was enough to keep me going and I thought should have kept me thin. It actually did the opposite.

In order for the body to run at full capacity it needs a minimum amount of protein per pound for that particular body, a minimum amount of carbohydrates, at least four cups of vegetables and lettuces each day and a fruit serving. My body was storing everything I ate into fat because it was in starvation mode.

So many of our foods today are filled with hidden sugars

that we don’t even realize that we are eating three-quarters of a small freezer bag size of sugar everyday.

Think about it - bread, yogurt, soups, dressings, milk, ice cream, cakes, cookies, candies, gum, canned goods, kids treats and the list goes on.

Label reading is something I teach at Changes. My clients are surprised to find they thought they were reading labels correctly and found out otherwise.

An interesting study has found that a child obesity epidemic is on the rise. We can change this by changing our health.

Check in next week for more healthy tips from Changes.

Changes is owned and operated by Linda Germo. For more information on Changes weight loss and wellness, please call 403-562-2111.

A Chronicles of times for the Crowsnest Pass

By Bill White Prayer Canada Let’s take a look back at our heritage in the Crowsnest Pass.

Just from memories and written histories, I want to capsulize some events known to me. In no way would I consider this writing as accurate as historians would validate.

The early days saw North American Indians travel the trails over hill and vale and some travel by canoe and water.

Saddle horse and wagon, buggies, sleighs were at one time the only way to travel. Trails are still evident, artifacts continually show up and Histories are continually talked of and enjoyed immensely.

As settlers came to discover the Pass and to seek out its treasures, the coal seams became evident and bountiful and also became exploited for household heat and cooking became easier and acceptable in all homes by the use of coal for fuel. How wonderful it was in the cold of winter to shanty up backwards to the old coal stoves and potbellied heaters and absorb a type of heat on the hands and posterior that those old stoves would emanate. Oh Glory.

Coal became so popular each town saw a coal mine or two come into operation and prosperity became the order of the day. People of almost every country emerged to seek out a living and then sent for their wives and children to join them in their good fortune.

Along with this infusion of peoples came the desire to recognize God the Father and Jesus Christ as their source of their quality of life they were used to and their desire to continue their spiritual life. Without fail one of the first buildings to be erected was the local church in each of the towns.

Customarily as today each town saw churches of various denominations arise and flourish – Awesome! Each church in those days would have a wonderful choir, great singers and great old hymns would grace the congregations. The spirit of the church was strong and vibrant.

The spirit of the coal miners was also strong in the area of “care and concern” for each person that went underground. This spirit permeated through all the families which also were made up of all nationalities and color and the mining peoples cared for each other.

The mines also had their times of tragedies, with the explosions causing much loss of life and the aftermath of that resulted in numerous widows being left to raise families. The “care and concern” spirit had a lot to do with the abilities and faithful friends helping in the raising of families “Praise the Lord”.

Modernization finally saw the closing of our mines and multitudes left the area. During the prosperous days of the mines 18 churches in the Pass saw a reasonable success and congregations flourished. And then the days of the exodus of much of what we call the older clan, the miners, the lumberman came into being. Our churches also suffered a decline and now there remains only eight organized congregations in the Pass.

This situation has become of great concern to some of us here in Bellevue and we have now registered a body of believers known as “Kingdom First Ministry and Fellowship”. This group will be under the direction of Pastor’s Ray & Donna Block and Pastor Bill White.

Services will take place at the Internationale Prayer Centre in Bellevue, regularly on Sunday morning at 11 a.m. and a Wednesday Fellowship night at

7 p.m. e will be available for Christian Counseling · We will be available to perform weddings · We will be available to offer funeral services · We will do hospital visitation regularly · Children’s Sunday school will be available as the demand warrants · We are vitally concerned for youth and teenager activities here and in association with others · Community outreach activities will be forthcoming continually · Doctrinal statements are available We are anxious to serve you.

You’ll be glad you came. Be a participant and not an onlooker.

The Internationale Prayer Centre has been operating in Bellevue for more than 30 years under the guidance and authority of Prayer Canada. We have represented Canada in Jerusalem at a World Convocation of Prayer where 160 Nations of the World attended. Awesome! We have also toured Canada, being on the road 35 days and visiting 60 Prayer stations and churches.

We also visited Bible Colleges in Western Canada for several years addressing students meetings and general public.

Watch for our Open House activity at the Prayer Centre very soon.

We are so anxious to serve you here in the Pass and simple say, Come One, Come All. Put us to the test and together we will truly be able to call this – A Homecoming. Amen Pastor’s: Ray and Donna Block Pastor: Bill White, The Committee – Kingdom First Ministry Fellowship, Phone 403632-5407, 403-564-4994.

Help us raise funds for a chairlift Meet and Greet - A Vision for the Future Dec. 12 • Ski Lodge • 4:00-7:30pm

rget Don’t foyour to buypass ski

eet) meet & gr e at the

An opportunity to see the future plans for our ski hill and how the community can get involved in our fundraising efforts.

(availabl

Alberta’s Affordable Family Ski Area

Phone: (403) 562.8334 www.passpowderkeg.com Crowsnest Pass, Alberta. Canada Located off Hwy #3 Crowsnest Pass, Southern Alberta’s Hidden Treasure

Santa in the Park

Sunday Dec 15 • 1-3pm at the Bellevue Memorial Park Hotdogs, hot chocolate, games and a visit from ‘Ol Saint Nick

Brought to you by Bellcrest Community Association and Sponsored by Sobeys

12

Thursday, December 12, 2013 Crowsnest Free Press

Stone’s Throw Café All Day Breakfast

Open every day 7am-5pm Sunday 10-4pm 13019-20th Avenue, Crowsnest Pass, AB

Ph/Fax 403-562-2230

www.stonesthrowcafe.ca

Crowsnest Cafe and Fly Shop Dine in or Take Away

Organic Breakfasts , Lunches and Sweets made from scratch. Bold flavours from around the world : featuring foods from China,India, Mexico, Thailand...

Fine Rooibos Teas ,Free trade Coffees... famous Breakfast Bagel...

SALE IN FLYSHOP

10%-35% Off Selected Items Fly Fishing Rods, G. Loomis T.F.O, Reels, Vests, Waders, Boots and Flies!

Patagonia, Fishpond, Loomis, Hardy Winter Hours: Wed-Sun 8-5 Gift certificates available Healthy food on Highway #3

403-563-8510

www.crowsnestcafeandflyshop.ca

Quality Ingredients, Pizza by thee slice availabl for lunch

Better Pizza! ...now that’s good food!

FIVE R I V E R S PIZZA

(403)564-4545

11001-20th Ave., Blairmore, AB (next to the Bargain Shop) Hours: Sun. 11am-9pm, Mon. Closed, Tues. & Wed. 3-10pm, Thurs.-Sat. 11am-11pm

Have you booked your Christmas Party Yet?

Crowsnest Pass Eat & Drink CHEF DEZ ON COOKING

Culinary Stocking Stuffer Ideas Being a man, I am sometimes mistakenly slotted into the stereotype of a last minute shopper. Nothing could be further than the truth. Hurriedly pushing my way through the crowds at the mall on December 24th is not how I want to spend the eve before Christmas. Therefore to help you avoid this ordeal I am offering you some stocking stuffer ideas for the hobby chef on your list.

Zester - This is a hand tool that removes the aromatic coloured segment of the peel from citrus fruits while leaving the white bitter pith part on the fruit. Great for adding extra citrus flavour to almost any recipe, or to enhance garnishing presentation.

Mini Whisk – Approximately the same size of a ball point pen.

It always comes in handy for small whisking applications like mixing individual drinks, beating one egg, or small amounts of sauce. I have even seen ones that are attached to a key chain hoop.

Melon Baller – Great for its intended purpose of creating bite-size balls of melon, but works just as well on cheeses and an assortment of fruits and vegetables. Caramelized balls of potato, for example, makes for an appealing side dish.

Olive Pitter – This tool resembles a pair of spring-loaded pliers. It has a circular base to hold an olive on one of the ends, and a prod on the other. When squeezed together, the prod inserts into the olive and pushes the pit through the opposite side. It works great on cherries too.

Garlic Press – I have gone through many poorly made garlic presses in the past, but there is one brand that has never let me down.

I highly recommend the Switzerland made “Zyliss” brand. I have literally crushed hundreds of cloves with this brand, for the past five years, with out fail.

Apple Corer – Simply push this tubular tool through the center of an apple or pear, and proceed with slicing… or eating.

Butcher’s Twine – Not only great for trussing stuffed turkeys, but also for chickens and a variety of stuffed roasts, meats, and seafood too.

Silicone Spatula – Silicone kitchen tools like spatulas and bowl scrapers are great because they can withstand high heat temperatures and they are very flexible. Fantastic for omelets, where ones made of rubber or plastic would melt in the hot pan.

Dough Scraper – A flat-edged tool that easily scrapes dough or flour together on the counter. They are available in metal or plastic.

Great for anyone that likes to bake.

Lemon Reamer – A wooden hand held tool to efficiently juice lemons or limes.

Please call 403-563-5555 for reservation

up to 80 seats available.

Visit our Facebook page daily specials

The Best Western Fusion Restaurant in the Pass.

Popiel’s

R E S TAU R A N T 8329 20th Ave Coleman, AB 403 563 5555

Call Chris to reserve your spot on our Eat and Drink Page (250)509-0177

Peking & Cantonese Cuisine Western Food - Fully Licensed

free DeLiVerY on orders over $65 (before tax) within Blairmore

10% Off

on cash pick up over $65 (before tax) our book yw for o party n as & christmear’s new Y

Lunch buffet

tuesday - friday 11am-2pm

Dinner buffet

friday & Saturday 5pm-8:30pm hours: Sun. 11am-9pm, Tues.-Sat. 11am-9:30pm, Mon. closed

Ben Wong Restaurant and Grill Ben

13249 20th Ave., Blairmore, AB

(403)562-8388

Dine in - tAKe Out - DeLiVerY

Specials 11-8pm

Wednesday-Steak Day 7 oz NEW YORK Thursday-Pasta (including Spaghetti or Baked Lasagna) Friday - Homemade Fish and Chips Saturday - BBQ RIB Night

Pick Up Orders 403-564-4522

I hope this helps relieve some of your shopping burdens. The kitchen section of department stores and smaller specialty stores are filled with many great gift ideas – who knows, you may even run into me!

Dear Chef Dez: I noticed that many Chefs on TV use a flat grater that lays across a bowl to remove zest from citrus fruits. Is the best way to do this?

Charlotte E. Surrey, BC Dear Charlotte: I actually recommend using a “zester”. It is a hand tool that has five little circular blades at the end. When it is dragged across a citrus fruit, it produces beautiful curls of zest while leaving the bitter pith behind. Although flat graters remove the zest in small bits, and thus prevent further chopping, there is no guarantee that one will not grate too far into the bitter white pith. Besides, the curls of zest make great garnish!

Send your food/cooking questions to dez@chefdez.com or P.O. Box 2674, Abbotsford, BC V2T 6R4 Chef Dez is a Food Columnist, Culinary Instructor & Cooking Show Performer. Visit him at www.chefdez.com

Here to make you happy 1130 Table Mountain Street, Pincher Creek, AB • 403-627-2787