The Free Press, May 07, 2015

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Brain Injury Association - Page 4 COMMUNITY

Mother’s Day gift donations - Page 5 ARTS

Sparwood maintenance employee Stu Tanton raised carp-shaped flags as part of the district’s celebration of Children’s Day. For the full story and more photos, turn to page 2.

Photo by S. Kucharski

Fernie Academy does Shakespeare - Page 15

SPORT

Local Extreme Huntress - Page 17

Deaths of two dogs under investigation

By Katelyn Dingman Free Press Staff

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he BC SPCA has begun an investigation after two dogs were allegedly shot and killed in Elkford on Friday, May 1.

The owner of the dogs, Jen Bryant, said that the incident occurred after her son accidentally left their back gate open, prompting the dogs to go into the neighbour’s yard, killing that individual’s chickens.

The Bryant’s family friend Aaron Hunink said that he saw the dogs

in the yard and after shooing them away, he watched the dogs walk back towards their owner’s house.

Hunink however noted that later that evening he saw the two dogs in the back of the neighbour’s truck and he and his girlfriend Ashley Cook followed the truck 8-10 kilometres north of Elkford in an attempt to intervene.

Hunink claimed that after stepping out of his truck he heard a gunshot and he and Cook walked down a trail to find one dog dead and the other injured.

“We were yelling at him to stop,” Hunink said. “I was going to jump in but when a guy has a gun, you don’t jump in.”

It was at that point that the neighbour shot the other dog, Hunink said.

Hunink took photos of the deceased dogs and brought them to the Elkford police station, later telling the family of the incident.

“It’s pretty devastating,” Bryant said. “I think anybody that loses an animal would know that feeling.”

She added, “We’re not saying

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our dogs were innocent. They shouldn’t have been out of the yard and they definitely shouldn’t have killed those chickens but we would have bought a hundred chickens to save them. There are other ways to handle the situation.”

The mother of four said that the loss of the dogs has impacted her family tremendously.

“My son isn’t even at school today,” said Bryant. “My four-yearold is devastated. She still asks where the dogs are.”

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THE FREE PRESS Thursday, May 7, 2015

Sparwood flags honour sister city’s children

By Sarah Kucharski Free Press Staff

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our carp-shaped flags snapped in the breeze at Sparwood City Hall on Tuesday, May 5 as part of an annual flag raising ceremony to honour a national holiday in their sister city of Kamisunagawa, Japan.

Children’s Day — known in Kamisunagawa as “Kodomo no Hi” — is celebrated on May 5, the fifth day of the fifth month, to respect children’s personalities and to celebrate their happiness.

Sparwood council members

greeted Kindergarten and Grade 1 students from Frank J. Mitchell Elementary School as they gathered beneath the flags.

Coun. Brad Bowen delivered a welcome speech to the children.

“On this day, families raise carp-shaped flags because legend has it that a carp that swims upstream becomes a dragon,” said Bowen to the children in attendance.

Following the ceremony, the children were welcomed inside City Hall to enjoy juice and cookies, while listening to a traditional story from Japan about Children’s Day.

From top left: Coun. Lois Halko, Coun. Joe Jarina, Coun. Brad Bowen, Coun. Margaret McKie and Coun. Jenna Jensen greeted Kindergarten and Grade 1 students during Sparwood’s annual flag raising ceremony.

Photo by S. Kucharski

Concerned parents share childcare experiences

By Katelyn Dingman Free Press Staff

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olding back tears, a mother stressed her concerns over childcare in the Elk Valley during last Wednesday evening’s Elk Valley Childcare Barriers and Opportunities Survey Information Sharing event.

Nearly a dozen concerned parents made their way to the College of the Rockies Fernie campus to discuss their issues with childcare in the Elk Valley.

“I won’t be coming back to work after my maternity leave because I can’t afford childcare on what I make,” Fernie School Aged Care manager Brittany Villemaire stressed, adding, “I wouldn’t put my kid in the childcare here because the quality is bad.”

Highlighting the lack of incentives for Early Childhood Education (ECE) workers in addition to the limited childcare spots available, parents and soon to be parents were able to share their experiences with the Elk Valley Child Care Advisory Initiative (EVCCAI).

The EVCCAI was established out of the 2012 Teck Advisory Initiative, which was initially set up to foster dialogue and communications between its Elk Valley operations and the people and communities within the operations’ area

of influence.

Villemaire attributed this harsh reality Because the issues around childcare to the industry’s high employee turnover in the Elk Valley are considered to be rate. complex, the EVCCAI felt that in order In addition to the lack of financial to better understand them, they needed incentives, Villemaire said that parents to seek out a social research specialist are constantly struggling to find a daycare to survey the communities and develop spot, with many being forced to go on a recommendations for the valley. two-year waiting list.

Last week’s community input sessions, “There’s no push to get quality care which were held in because parents Sparwood, Fernie will take anything “There’s no push to get and Elkford, marked they can get, so the quality care because the first phase of the quality of care for parents will take anything survey. these kids is actually Although parents going down,” they can get.” acknowledged that the Villemaire noted.

Brittany Villemaire survey would not be And for the Fernie School Aged Care distributed until late mother holding manager May or early June, the back tears during information sessions the meeting, low provided them with an quality care isn’t outlet. even an option as she struggles to find a Villemaire, who is currently pregnant spot for her son just a month before her with her first child while working as a maternity leave concludes. childcare provider herself, noted that there Despite these, and many other concerns, is little incentive for ECE workers to live some believe childcare continues to be and work in Fernie. viewed as a low priority issue on the “They’re really making just over municipal level. minimum wage,” she stressed. “In some “During the election last year I knew cases they’re making $14/hour.” it was an important issue to me since I She went on to say, “People have quit was going to have a child,” father Rob because they make more money scrubbing Klein said. “[but] it didn’t seem to me that toilets at the mine.” candidates recognized how significant of

Cracking the curber code…

an issue it was for some people in the community.”

Despite their acknowledgement of the issue and their willingness to help, Klein noted that several candidates for City of Fernie council didn’t seem to think it was the place of the city to take on a leadership role when it came to the childcare issue.

“It didn’t seem to be as big as some of the other issues,” he stressed, adding. “It would be nice to see a committee that pulls together all of the different childcare providers in Fernie and says ‘okay, lets really talk about what the problem is and what the city can do to help solve it.’”

As the childcare issue remains unsolved, the EVCCAI continues to work with communities in the hopes that their survey will help to resolve some of the barriers parents are experiencing.

Researcher Phoebe Scotland was hired in March to develop, implement and analyze the Childcare Barriers and Opportunities Survey and to report on findings in addition to making recommendations.

Those unable to attend any of the three informal public meetings taking place in Fernie, Sparwood and Elkford are invited to share their childcare experiences by emailing Scotland at elkvalleychildcare@ gmail.com or sharing their comments on the Elk Valley Child Care Survery Facebook page.

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Accept the baton and join us this year at the Mardi Gras themed Relay – celebrating successes and a brighter future.

Elk Valley Relay For Life June 20, 10 am – 10 pm Pool & Leisure Centre, Sparwood BC elkvalleyrelay@bc.cancer.ca Register at relayforlife.ca

#WhyIRelay

New playground to be built at Ridgemont Park

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THE FREE PRESS Thursday, May 7, 2015

Calling for social media action

Urging Fernie to join Facebook

By Katelyn Dingman Free Press Staff

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— had 8,500 members; making up more than the population of Fernie and Sparwood combined.

“In reality a lot of people are already [using Facebook],” Klein said, noting that the District of Sparwood began using Facebook in 2010 and already has over 1,500 followers.

Council agreed that incorporating Facebook into their practice is essential.

“I think it’s something we’ve known for a while,” Coun. Dan McSkimming said.

“I appreciate you putting it in context.

We need to have that discussion and set a timeline and commit to it.”

Coun. Jonathan Levesque said that because the city already does updates on their main webpage, it could be as simple as copying and pasting that information to Facebook.

City of Fernie Mayor Mary Giuliano, said that the Facebook administration duties would be assigned to the corporate officer, a position that has been unoccupied since the end of November 2014.

“It’s a matter of being short staffed,” Giuliano stated. “I believe once we get a corporate officer, we will do just that.”

Despite this feedback, Klein still said that the City of Fernie needs to make the use of the social media site a priority, adding, “If it’s a priority you have to be able to make it happen.”

Coun. Ange Qualizza reiterated Klein’s remarks, stating that during a presentation by the former Mayor of Golden, she stated, “If you think you can ignore Facebook anymore, I’m here to tell you, you can’t.”

“There seemed to be an urgency acebook was created 11 years ago to have the project completed,” and is now available globally, with said Mertz. “A full community 1.44 billion active monthly users as of he Ridgemont Park new engagement and needs assessment March 2015, but despite this reality, the City playground proposal was requires a lot of time and department of Fernie is not active on Facebook. contracted to local landscap- resources.”

During the April 27 council meeting, Rob ing company Mow and Snow Land He went on to say, “I feel that we Klein approached council to discuss the Care during the April 27 council have a project going forward that need to incorporate the social media site meeting, despite suggestions from meets the requirements that [the into their municipal updates. council to allow the surrounding neighbourhood] brought forward.”

“Since the City of Fernie represents the community to rebuild the park.

Coun. Phil Iddon agreed with residents and we’re making decisions on The proposed redo will include Mertz remarks, stating, “Having behalf of them, I think it’s tremendously e q u i p m e n t formerly lived in that important that the city find ways to themes that are neighbourhood, it’s effectively communicate with the people “It’s going to consistent with something that’s fairly that live in Fernie and make sure they be a great the surrounding long overdue. It’s going understand what the decisions are that are landscape; a canopy addition to the to be a great addition to being made,” Klein said. “Social media that will provide neighbourhood.” the neighbourhood.” is an effective way to communicate with shade, a unique Iddon, however, residents and followers.” swingset, climbing Phil Iddon questioned if the city Klein listed a series of benefits to the social features, picnic City of Fernie could propose that the media site, including posts taking little time tables, an expanded councillor neighbourhood take and effort to share, no cost being associated basketball court some ownership of the with the site, being able to communicate surface and park, whether that entails important messages quickly and making additional trees and planting additional trees updates as necessary. benches. In addition, a new sign or erecting their own signage.

After following the 2014 Fernie municipal will be erected, welcoming guests “Is there an opportunity for the election, Klein discovered that a lack of civic to the park. neighbourhood group to add some participation in local government was a key “The proposal was reviewed by value to that? Is there anything issue. staff and the neighbourhood group that they could add to the project, Klein came to the conclusion that by the and deemed to be acceptable,” [something] that they could take city engaging in social media, this issue may Director of Leisure Services Cam ownership of?” Iddon questioned. be resolved.

Mertz said. “The city has a really Mertz noted that there would be He noted that a study revealed that 59 good working relationship with the no issues with doing this. per cent of Canadian adults over the age company.”

The playground itself is expected of 18 visit Facebook on average nine times The park proposal was tendered to be completed at the end of June a week, and as of April 19, Elk Valley out in March 2015. Mow and Snow 2015.

Garage Sale — a Facebook page where was the only company to submit locals can buy and sell used and new items a proposal to the city at the price of $83,959.31, a figure Mertz said was within the city’s initial budget UP TO 65% OFF! Canadiana fry pans feature our toughest, for the project. most durable, non-stick enviro-friendly coating that is PFOA free.

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CRANBROOK INVERMERE Prior to the tendering Home Hardware Invermere Home Hardware process, city staff met Building Centre 9980 Arrow Road with representatives 1901 McPhee Road in the neighbourhood to define the design criteria, Mertz said, but because of urgency, the city did not propose full community engagement.

Information & dealers: 1-800-A NEW-POT or www.paderno.com. Not all locations open Sunday. Quantities limited, please be early. Sale items may not be exactly as shown.

By Katelyn Dingman Free Press Staff

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THE FREE PRESS Thursday, May 7, 2015

Elk Valley Spring Clean - last chance to register Submitted

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omorrow, Friday May 8 is your last chance to register for the Elk Valley Spring Clean event that will take place in Elkford and Sparwood on May 23 and in Fernie on May 24.

We already have a huge number of homes and businesses registered; they will all appear on our exclusive map that will be published in the Thursday May 21 edition of The Free Press. Don’t miss out on your chance to take part in the most exciting and wellattended event in the Elk Valley in years!

Don’t forget the Garage Sale is a fundraiser for the East Kootenay Brain Injury Association and it’s a great way to build awareness about the great work that they do.

So don’t miss out. It is only $20 to register, and you will benefit from the huge advertising campaign. Most importantly you will have your garage sale listed on a very special map that will be in The Free Press the week of the event, this will enable shoppers to find your garage sale on the day. You get to keep all the profit from your sale.

Registration for hosting your own Garage Sale is open now, and can be done online at www.elkvalleyspringclean.blogspot.ca or by filling in the application form in today’s Free Press. The closing date for applications is Friday May 8.

For any further inquires, please get in touch with Rachel Cline at 250-946-6322 or email her at elkvalleyspringclean@gmail.com and be sure to follow all the great bargains that people are selling on our Facebook page www.facebook.com/Ferniespringclean.

Remembering locals lost in work-related deaths 50-60 individuals attended the ceremony.

Representatives from Teck, major contractors and local workers were present for the prayer and ceremony, which included a speech from District of Sparwood Mayor Cal McDougall.

Hanson said, “Canada has one of the worst records in the developed nations for workers not going home at the end of the day. When you add in workplace death and occupational work and safety disease deaths, they might not be dying on the worksite but [rather] die from an occupationalrelated illness, we’re sitting at just about 1,000 a year.”

He added, “We’ve lost a lot of Sparwood honoured the men and women killed in workplace incidents during the Day of Mourning ceremony, coalminers in the Valley over the years so it’s real [for me] … Mining is held on Tuesday, April 28.

Submitted photo a dangerous business and we make it as safe as possible but the reality is

By Sarah Kucharski there’s still a risk.”

Free Press Staff The Day of Mourning came just weeks after eads were bowed in prayer at Sparwood an explosion at the Greenhills mine near Elkford Centennial Square on Tuesday, April 28 sent three to hospital.

Of the explosion, Hanson said, “When we as workers in the valley honoured those hear the Senior Inspector of Mines Al Hoffman lost in workplace fatalities.

The Day of Mourning is an international say that it’s a ‘routine’ explosion, it signals that ceremony to remember those who have died we, as workers, have a lot to do in regards to educating the ministry on health and safety from work-related accidents or illnesses.

According to United Steelworkers 9346 standards.”

President Alex Hanson, due to the good weather,

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Elk Valley Spring Clean - Garage Sale application Name: Address:

Contact Number:

Contact Email:

Location of sale:

Elkford

Sparwood

Fernie

Stall Fee: $20 and must be received by May 8th at 5pm.

Cheques payable to East Kootenay Brain Injuries Association

What to do next:

Elkford & Sparwood

Saturday 23 May rd

Fernie

Sunday 24th May Elk Valley Spring Clean

Or email: elkvalleyspringclean@gmail.com elkvalleyspringclean.blogspot.ca

Both days

10am-2pm Why not have a sale that includes crafts or cooking?

• Fill in the application form above. Closing date May 8th, 5 pm.

• Return to Elkford - Karen Mills, Chamber of Commerce, Return to Sparwood - Norma McDougall, Chamber of Commerce Return to Fernie - Jennifer Cronin, The Free Press • If you haven’t received confirmation of your garage sale and a Partici pants Pack via email/post by May 12th, please email: elkvalleyspringclean@gmail.com or phone 250 946 6322 Talk to your friends and neighbours about having a sale!

The more garage sales there are in one street, the better.

If you don’t have a garage, why not share with a friend that does?

There are also a number of pitches for hire on a first come first served basis.

Please email for further details.

www.thefreepress.ca

Rocky Mountain Auxiliary celebrates Mother’s Day O

n Monday, May 4, Rocky Mountain Auxiliary volunteers were busy preparing flower arrangements and gifts to present to Rocky Mountain Village mothers for Mother’s Day. For the last nine years, the auxiliary members have presented residents with flowers and presents.

“We are very few but mighty volunteers,” said president of the Rocky Mountain Auxiliary Wilda Quail.

The auxiliary also presents gifts on many other holidays, including Easter, Christmas and resident’s birthdays.

In the past, equipment such as oxygen generators and aspirator suction machines have been given to residents as well as personal items such as hygiene products.

The Rocky Mountain Auxiliary encourages donations and support from community organizations.

• •

By Sarah Kucharski Free Press Staff

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Rocky Mountain Auxiliary members wrap Mother’s day gifts. Photographed above, from left: Joanna Pitt, Gloria Blakey, president Wilda Quail, secretary Celia Roccamatisi, treasurer Doreen Neidig and Rosa Rocca. Missing from the photo is Charlotte Leffler and Margarette Caldwell.

Photo by K. Dingman

fforts to raise funds in the aftermath of the Nepalese earthquake continue in the Elk Valley with Fernie Secondary School (FSS) students announcing they will participate in this year’s Community Garage Sale event.

“This year we had a student council that were really interested in participating in social justice movements and so they’ve elected to participate in this year’s garage sale,” said FSS teacher Tara Elliot. “It’s been really great to see them step up and take part in events like the 30 Hour Famine and fundraising for Nepal,” she added.

The FSS student council consists of approximately 20 students from Grades 7-12.

All proceeds from FSS’ participation will be put towards earthquake relief. Elliot said a likely charity candidate for the school will be the Red Cross.

“We want to make sure we donate to a registered charity so that we can take advantage of the government fundraising match incentive,” explained Elliot.

This year’s Elk Valley Garage Sale will take place on May 24.

District of Elkford 816 Michel Road P.O. Box 340 Elkford, B.C. V0B 1H0 P.250.865.4000 • F.250.865.4001 • info@elkford.ca • www.elkford.ca

Safety Tips for Outdoor Burning

Scholarship Notice

Fires must be attended until extinguished.

Have fire control tools handy including: water supply, shovels and rakes.

Watch the wind and be prepared to extinguish all open burning.

If you suspect the fire is out of control, call the Fire Department immediately by dialling 9-1-1.

The District of Elkford requires you to have a permit to burn.

There is no cost to this. Permits can be obtained at the District of Elkford Office at 816 Michel Road during regular office hours, Monday to Friday, 8:00 AM to 4:30 PM.

• May 7th

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Secondary students sell for Nepal

By Sarah Kucharski Free Press Staff

With summer approaching and fire pit season in full swing, the Elkford Fire Department reminds you to follow some basic safety tips for burning outdoors: • •

THE FREE PRESS Thursday, May 7, 2015

The District of Elkford scholarships are open to students graduating from Elkford Secondary School.

Applicants are required to provide: • • •

Proof of residency in the District of Elkford Proof of attendance at Elkford Secondary School Proof of registration in a post-secondary institution

Applications can be picked up at the District of Elkford Municipal Office or accessed online at www.elkford.ca under Elkford News. Applications must be submitted to the District of Elkford Office by Thursday, June 4, 2015. Scholarships will be awarded to those students pursuing a post-secondary education.

2015 Citizen of the Year

Upcoming Council and Committee Meetings

Citizens’ Advisory Committee @ 6 pm

• May 11th

Regular Council

@ 6 pm

• May 25th

Regular Council

@ 6 pm

These meetings will be held in the Council Chambers at 816 Michel Road and are open to the public.

Denise Sorenson-Timmerman has been named the 2015 Elkford Citizen of the Year. The Citizen of the Year program formally recognizes contributions made by dedicated individuals who make Elkford a great place to live, work, play, and learn. Denise was nominated as Citizen of the Year for serving as the President of the Elkford Food Bank for many years. She has made herself available to individuals and families and spent countless hours organizing and cleaning the food bank room, as well as organizing and attending various fund raising events. Ms. Sorenson-Timmerman accepted the District’s invitation to be the Grand Marshall of the annual Wildcat Days Parade on Saturday, June 27, 2015.

Leisure Services Programs British Soccer Camp July 6th – 10th Camps for ages 3 - 17 years To receive a FREE soccer jersey, sign up online 45 days prior to the camp’s start date at www.challengersports.com. Otherwise, stop in at the Elkford Community Conference Centre to register.

Pediatric Emergency First Aid & CPR (10 years +) May 23rd 8:00 AM - 4:30 PM $146.93 per person + tax Registration deadline: May 9th WSBC Level 1, Standard 2 Day and Transportation Endorsement 3 Days/3 Tickets (16 years +) May 29th - May 31st 8:00 AM - 4:30 PM $440.78 per person + tax Registration deadline: May 15th For more information about these and other programs, phone 250.865.4010.

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THE FREE PRESS Thursday, May 7, 2015

Opinion

Phone: 250-423-4666 Email: editor@thefreepress.ca

Production Manager Bonny McLardy Creative Kaitlyn Haarstad Member of

Circulation Shannon Stewart

342 2nd Avenue • Box 2350, Fernie, B.C. V0B 1M0 Tel: (250) 423-4666 Toll Free 1-866-337-6437 Editorial email: editor@thefreepress.ca Advertising email: advertising@thefreepress.ca Publisher’s email: publisher@thefreepress.ca website: www.thefreepress.ca

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Call 250-489-3455 or toll free 1-800-665-2382 for Subscriptions Press Council, PO Box 1356, Ladysmith, B.C. V9G 1A9 Established in Fernie, B.C. in 1898 and published weekly each Thursday by The Free Press, a division of Black Press Group Ltd. and distributed throughout the Elk Valley and South Country. Free circulation 6,000.

Reproductions of any material contained in this publication is forbidden without the prior consent of the publisher.

Editorial

by Katelyn Dingman

It seems that childcare has been a major issue in the Elk Valley for several years.

Early Childhood Education (ECE) workers wages are so low that they can barely afford to live in the Elk Valley, where the cost of living is high in comparison to many other areas in B.C. Without enough qualified childcare workers, facilities are forced to turn parents down.

During last week’s Elk Valley Childcare Barrier and Opportunities Survey Information Sharing event in Fernie, parents had an opportunity to share their personal concerns regarding childcare.

With two-year waiting lists for childcare spots, many parents seemed frustrated that they may not be given the opportunity to go back to work.

Childcare should be looked at as a necessity rather than a privilege. If the Elk Valley has any chance of growing and welcoming more young families to the community, the childcare issue has to be resolved.

During last week’s meeting, the group noted that many young families move to the Elk Valley on their own, without any kind of support network. Although individuals often begin to look at their friends as family, those relationships are not the same and many young families said they couldn’t look to their friends for the same kind of childcare support they could ask their family for.

Aside from the issue of limited childcare spots, many parents addressed their concerns over the childcare hours. With many daycares only being open until 4 p.m., including the Fernie Child Care Society, parents are often unable to work full-time hours.

I honestly believe childcare should be a top priority in the Elk Valley. Everyone has a right to continue to work after they have a child.

There are many facets to this issue but I believe that if the government stepped up to ensure childcare was a top priority, the concern over limited spaces would cease to exist. Whether that entails raising the wages of ECE workers or working to reduce the cost of daily childcare in order to make it more affordable for parents, something needs to be done. After living in the Elk Valley for a year, I’ve come to find that supporting yourself on a single income can be considered a challenge. I can’t imagine how difficult it would be to support a family on a single income. It’s not fair for families to be expected to do this. As I said before, childcare should be considered a necessity and the Elk Valley needs to work together to ensure parents have access to affordable daycare.

Katelyn Dingman EDITOR

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Letters to the Editor Thank you Fernie Alpine Resort (FAR) for caring!

bluebird hours of the 2015 ski season. Again thank you to everyone for making our annual trip to the mountains as epic as ever! See you next year!”

It was so refreshing talking to Peter and Gerri. It made me that much more appreciative and grateful for all the hard work and dedication that everyone at FAR puts in to keep us sliding down that mountain! I must say that I enjoyed some of my best days of the season during the last open week, when it would have been so easy for the staff to slack off and not really care anymore.

Next year, when you look up at the mountain during the night and see the roaming lights on the ski mountain, remember to appreciate that those groomers, ski patrol and other staff are all working through the night so that you can enjoy your ski runs the next day!

A happy resident,

During the last few days of skiing at FAR, up at Lost Boys Café, we started talking to a couple from Ottawa who were on their last day of a two week ski vacation in Fernie. Despite this season’s somewhat marginal snow conditions, Peter and Gerri Wilkes were very impressed with their ski experience in Fernie. They told me that they even sought out to find the head groomer Blair to let him know how appreciative they were for the meticulously groomed runs and for the care that was put into the White Ribbon of Hope — the snow pathway Robert Champagne that was created to allow skiers to ski out of Lizard Bowl to the bottom of the hill.

They sent me this email and asked me to include it in my letter to The Free Press: “We have been longtime fans of Fernie - the people, community and incredible ski resort and we didn't think we could love it anymore than we did already - until this year! Despite Mother Nature's refusal to cooperate, the staff at Sponsored by Fernie Alpine Resort worked incredibly hard to be positive, upbeat and create the best possible ski experience they could for every single guest.

We were especially impressed with the skill and dedication of the groomers - specifically during the last few weeks of the season when they would lovingly and painstakingly roll out the White Ribbon of Hope every morning so we could get up the mountain to seek out the snow. When the ski gods finally smiled upon he ree ress us - three days before closing - everyone could have thrown their hands up and walked away.

If you are the individual in this photo you have won a $10 gift voucher Instead, once the freshies had been tracked out, from Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory. Drop into The Free Press the groomers came out in full force to create office for your prize. immaculate corduroy for us to shred in the final

A face in the crowd

&T

F

P

POLL OF THE WEEK Do you support the changes made to the Slow Down Move Over rule?

Yes 95% No 5% This week’s poll question: Do you think six weeks is reasonable for the closure of the Fernie Aquatic Centre?

log onto www.thefreepress.ca to make your vote count This web poll is informal, not scientific. It reflects opinions of site visitors who voluntarily participate. Results may not represent the opinions of the public as a whole.

Black Press is not responsible for the statistical accuracy of opinions expressed here.

www.thefreepress.ca ‘True Blue’ than Mr. Harper's. If you are a staunch conservative who is dismayed with what Mr. Harper has done to Conservative values and the Progressive Conservative party, then you really owe it to yourself to take a good, hard look at Green economic policy. Elizabeth May believes in the power of the market and is more the true successor to the mantle of John Diefenbaker, Brian Mulroney and Joe Clark than Mr. Harper ever was.

Letters to the Editor continued from page 6 True "Green"?

People think that the Green Party is left wing but this is a mistake. The Green’s economic policy is more ethically

I

recall listening as Mike Casault taught the Drug Abuse Resistance Education (D.A.R.E.) program at Isabella Dicken Elementary School (IDES). Friendly and approachable to children and parents, Casault said hello when passing by in his police car and spoke to individuals in. Casault is admired and respected for his consistent community work, his friendliness, his compassion towards those that got in trouble and his understanding of how this affected parents. Casault truly is the policeman you want in your town, the one you look up to, the one you feel is there to protect and help you. He’s someone you can trust.

On Friday, May 1, a get-together was hosted to honour Casault on his retirement from the police force. It was great to see several retired officers and spouses as well as current officers and friends come to pay tribute to Casault.

Staff Sgt. Lorne Craig said, “Thank you for coming to this dinner in honour of Mike who has retired from the RCMP after 25 years of service.

Staff Sgt. Mike Casault Regimental #41287 first became exposed to the RCMP in 1986 when he was hired as summer student constable in McLennan, Alberta. After this experience Mike decided to volunteer as an auxiliary constable and focus efforts on his application to the RCMP. He was officially sworn as a member of the RCMP on September 11, 1989 and became part of Troop 6. Prior to attending depot division in Regina, Mike opted for language training in Montreal for seven months. On arriving at depot division he spent some time waiting for the other members of Troop 6 to arrive and start training. After six months of training Mike graduated in December 1990 and was sent immediately to Fort Nelson. In April 1994 he was posted to Fernie. He was promoted to corporal in July 2005 and voted in to a Staff Relations Representative (SRR) position in April 2007. This entailed a transfer to Kelowna and Mike and his family chose to stay in Fernie where he continued to work as the SRR representative. He was promoted to sergeant in January 2008 and given a much larger area of responsibility within the “E” Division. Another promotion came on January 2010 to the rank of staff sergeant and a transfer to Ottawa in October 2011. Another promotion and more responsibility, Mike was now in charge of the

RETIRE WITH CONFIDENCE Join me for an informative seminar

Wednesday, May 20th 3:00 p.m. or 7:00 p.m.

For more information or to RSVP, please contact:

Frank Vanden Broek, CFP® 250-421-1523 frank.vandenbroek@sunlife.com

Mutual funds offered by Sun Life Financial Investment Services (Canada) Inc. Sun Life Assurance Company of Canada is a member of the Sun Life Financial group of companies. © Sun Life Assurance Company of Canada, 2015.

National Health and Safety portfolio as the SRR. Mike left this position January 2014 and took annual leave until April 1, 2015 when he officially hung up his stirrups.”

Over the span of 25 years of service, Casault was recognized with the Queens Golden Jubilee medal, the Queens Diamond Jubilee medal, Long Service medal in recognition of 20 years of service, Bronze Clasp for 25 years of service and also received a Saint John’s Life Saving Award for delivering CPR and using a defibrillator on a retired member who had a heart attack. Casault was credited for saving his life. Casault was also a member of the Nelson Emergency Response Team in 1995 and was deployed to the Gustafson Lake standoff.

He was in the mix of the standoff and shoot out on September 11, 1995.

Staff Sgt. Lorne Craig’s joke to Casault drew laughter when he said, “There must be something to September 11, sworn in on September 11, involved in a shootout on September 11, did you happen to be in New York City in recent years? He then added that it was no wonder that Mike was recruited by the ERT Team, he is a very good marksman, earning the Crowned Crossed Revolvers, Crowned Crossed Pistols, and Crowned Crossed Rifles badges due to his exceptional marksmanship.”

The RCMP saddle blanket called “shabrack” was then presented on behalf of those attending.

This is the traditional design dating back to 1887 when “MP” was registered as the horse brand of the North West Mounted Police. With few variations, the design of dark blue cloth, singlewide yellow border, “MP” brand and crown has been the traditional appointment and is still used today on the horses of the RCMP’s Musical Ride. The scale reproduction of the saddle blanket adorned with the various badges and decorations that Casault has earned over the span of his career will be a reminder for him of his time with the RCMP. Letters of congratulations were read from friends and co-workers unable to attend and also from the Commissioner and then Fire Prevention Officer Tom Hopkins spoke about the years Casault spent as a volunteer firefighter in the Fernie Fire Hall with Alex Crawford and Gerry Dyke telling funny stories.

Congratulations and best wishes to you and your family in your retirement Mike!

BOOK AND BAKE SALE FOR SNiP SATURDAY MAY 9TH 10 AM - 2 PM AT THE ARTS STATION

Just in time for Mother’s Day! Books, baked treats, and delicious desserts!

All proceeds raised will go to the Spay and Neuter Intensive Program (SNiP) to help control the cat population in Fernie.

If you are interested in baking something for this fun event please contact our food coordinator Tanya Carre at carreyee@gmail. com for more information. Or if you would like to donate books they can be dropped off at Barkside in Fernie from April 26th - May 9th, or contact Jenn Woods at spayneuterferniepets@gmail.com.

PROUDLY SUPPORTED BY THE FREE PRESS

Do you know someone who is having a birthday this coming week?

Let us know who it is, and we will share it in next week’s edition!

Local Birthdays May 7 Darcy Diakow May 9 Terry George

Do you know someone who has an upcoming birthday?

Just email their name and birth date (no year required) to Jen at customerservice@thefreepress.ca or call 250-423-4666 and we will publish it in The Free Press

For all of your personal, commercial or industrial automotive repair needs!

Complete Radiator Service Industrial Truck & Heavy Duty Equipment

Speed Demon Lights now in stock!

SERVING THE MINING & LOGGING INDUSTRY SINCE 1982

A proud community supporter

Sparwood, B.C.

BC & NARSA HD CERTIFIED

Celebrity Birthdays May 7 Alexander Ludwig, 22 May 8 Enrique Iglesias, 39 May 9 Billy Joel, 65 May 10 Adebayo Akinfenwa, 32 May 11 Sabrina Carpenter, 15 May 12 Tony Hawk, 46 May 13 Stevie Wonder, 64

Home of the Elk Valley’s MOST EXPERIENCED Mechanics!

From bumper to bumper and the ground up come see Mountain Mechanical for all of your repair needs!

250-425-6413 Sparwood - 743 Douglas Fir

250-425-6535

Now hiring for service, parts and warehouse.

PLEASE DON’T DRINK & DRIVE

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Life’s brighter under the sun

Causeway Bay Hotel, Sparwood, BC

Leo Young Vernon, B.C.

A tribute to retiring Staff Sgt. Mike Casault Submitted by Mayor Mary Giuliano

THE FREE PRESS Thursday, May 7, 2015

Elkford - 1 Front Street

250-865-4622

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THE FREE PRESS Thursday, May 7, 2015

Want your event listed in Around the Valley and on-line?

Avengers: Age of Ultron

Friday, May 8- Thursday, May 14

BOOK THE ARCADE FOR YOUR NEXT AFTERNOON OR EVENING PARTY! Visit www.ferniemovies.com for more info.

Call 250-423-3132 to book.

Rated PG • 7 pm Nightly 7 pm & 9:30 pm Fri, Sat & Tues

Paul Blart: Mall Cop 2 Rated PG • 7 pm Nightly 7 pm & 9 pm Fri, Sat & Tues 3 pm Matinees Sat & Sun ($6.50 - 2D & $8.50 - 3D)

321-2 Avenue, Fernie

250-423-7111 Movieline

www.ferniemovies.com

ADD IT ONLINE

Find out what’s happening in your community and submit your own local events.

Event submissions are FREE!

go to:

www.thefreepress.ca/calendar/submit/

Around the Valley

Around the Valley is a free listing to any local service.

Please send an email to customerservice@thefreepress.ca or drop off a brief description of your event at The Free Press office.

Mondays

• 6:30 to 8:00am – Early Bird Swim at the Sparwood Pool • 7:00am to 8:00pm – Fitness Centre Open at the Fernie Aquatic Centre • 7:00am to 1:00pm – Public Swim at the Fernie Aquatic Centre • 8:00 to 9:30am – Lanes and Leisure at the Sparwood Pool • 8:30 to 9:15am – Active Fit at the Fernie Aquatic Centre • 8:45 to 10:15am – Adult Shinny at the Fernie Memorial Arena • 9:30 to 10:30am –Aquafit at the Sparwood Pool • 10:30 to noon – Lanes and Leisure at the Sparwood Pool • 12:00 to 1:00pm – Skate & Shoot Hockey 18+ at the Sparwood Arena • 12:00 to 1:00pm – Lane Swim at the Sparwood Pool • 3:00 to 8:00pm – Public Swim at the Fernie Aquatic Centre • 3:45 to 5:00pm – Public Skating at the Sparwood Arena • 4:00 to 6:00pm – Water Slide open at Fernie Aquatic Centre • 4:00 to 5:30pm – Public Swim at the Sparwood Pool • 5:30 to 6:30pm – Lane Swim at the Sparwood Pool • 7:30 to 9:00 pm – Women’s Night at Old School Boxing • 8:00 to 9:00pm – Aquafit at the Sparwood Pool

Tuesdays

• 7:00am to 8:00pm – Fitness Centre Open at the Fernie Aquatic Centre • 7:00am to 1:00pm – Public Swim at the Fernie Aquatic Centre • 8:45 to 10:15am – Adult Shinny at the Fernie Memorial Arena • 9:30 to 10:15am – Aquafit at the Elkford Aquatic Centre • 10:00 to ll:00am – Kindergym (1-5 year olds) Fernie Family Centre • 10:30 to 11:15am – Free Admission Public Skate at the Fernie Memorial Arena • 10:30 to noon – Toonie Swim at the Elkford Aquatic Centre • 10:30 to 11:15am – Gentle Fit at the Fernie Aquatic Centre • 11:00 to 1:00pm – Lane Swim at the Sparwood Pool • 12:00 to 1:00pm – Skate & Shoot Hockey 18+ at the Sparwood Arena • 1:00 to 2:30pm – Lanes and Leisure at the Sparwood Pool • 1:30 to 2:30pm – Parent and Tot Skating at the Sparwood Arena • 1:30 to 2:30pm – Water Walking at the Sparwood Pool • 3:00 to 8:00pm – Public Swim at the Fernie Aquatic Centre • 3:45 to 4:45 pm – Swim Club at

the Elkford Aquatic Centre • 4:00 to 6:00pm – Water Slide Open at the Fernie Aquatic Centre • 5:30 to 6:30pm – Lane Swim at the Sparwood Pool • 6:30 to 8:00pm – Public Swim at the Sparwood Pool • 6:30 to 8:30pm – Opt Fernie Clinic at the Elk Valley Hospital • 7:00 to 8:00pm – Public Skating at the Sparwood Arena • 8:00 to 9:00pm – 14+ Swim at the Sparwood Pool

Wednesdays

• 6:30 to 8:00am – Early Bird Swim at the Sparwood Pool • 7:00am to 8:00pm – Fitness Centre Open at the Fernie Aquatic Centre • 7:00 to 1:00pm – Public Swim at the Fernie Aquatic Centre • 8:00 to 9:30am – Lanes and Leisure at the Sparwood Pool • 8:30 to 9:15am – Active Fit at the Fernie Aquatic Centre • 8:45 to 10:15am – Adult Shinny at the Fernie Memorial Arena • 9:30 to 10:30am –Aquafit at the Sparwood Pool • 9:30 to 10:15am – Aquafit at the Elkford Aquatic Centre • 10:00 to ll:00am – Kindergym (1-5 year olds) Fernie Family Centre • 10:30 to noon – Lanes and Leisure at the Sparwood Pool • 10:30 to noon – Toonie Swim at the Elkford Aquatic Centre • 12:00 to 1:00pm – Lane Swim at the Sparwood Pool • 12:00 to 1:00pm – Skate & Shoot Hockey 18+ at the Sparwood Arena • 12:00pm - Fernie Rotary Meeting Park Place Lodge • 12:00 to 1:00pm – Skate & Shoot Hockey 18+ at the Sparwood Arena • 1:15 to 2:30pm – Skate & Shoot at the Fernie Memorial Arena • 3:00 to 8:00pm – Public Swim at the Fernie Aquatic Centre • 3:45 to 5:00pm – Public Skating at the Sparwood Arena • 3:45 to 5:00pm – After School Rec Hockey at the Sparwood Arena • 3:45 to 4:45 pm – Swim Club at the Elkford Aquatic Centre • 4:00 to 6:00pm – Water Slide open at Fernie Aquatic Centre • 4:00 to 5:30pm – Public Swim at the Sparwood Pool • 5:30 to 6:30pm – Lane Swim at the Sparwood Pool • 7:30 – Ladies Darts at the Fernie Legion (new members welcome) • 8:00 to 9:00pm –14+ Aquafit at the Sparwood Pool

Thursdays

• 7:00am to 8:00pm – Fitness Centre Open at the Fernie Aquatic

Centre • 7:00am to 1:00pm – Public Swim at the Fernie Aquatic Centre • 8:45 to 10:15am – Adult Shinny at the Fernie Memorial Arena • 10:30 to 11:15am – Free Admission Public Skate at the Fernie Memorial Arena • 10:30 to noon – Toonie Swim at the Elkford Aquatic Centre • 10:30 to 11:15am – Gentle Fit at the Fernie Aquatic Centre • 11:00 to 1:00pm – Lane Swim at the Sparwood Pool • 12:00 to 1:00pm – Skate & Shoot Hockey 18+ at the Sparwood Arena • 12:00 to 1:00pm – Skate & Shoot Hockey 18+ at the Sparwood Arena • 1:00 to 2:30pm – Lanes and Leisure at the Sparwood Pool • 3:00 to 8:00pm – Public Swim at the Fernie Aquatic Centre • 3:45 to 4:45 pm – Swim Club at the Elkford Aquatic Centre • 4:00 to 6:00pm – Water Slide open at Fernie Aquatic Centre • 5:00 to 6:00pm – Lane Swim at the Elkford Aquatic Centre • 5:30 to 6:30pm – Lane Swim at the Sparwood Pool • 6:00 to 8:00pm – Public Swim at the Elkford Aquatic Centre • 6:30 to 8:00pm – Public Swim at the Sparwood Pool • 7:00pm – Darts at the Sparwood Legion • 7:00 to 8:00pm – Public Skating at the Sparwood Arena • 7:30 to 9:00pm – Women & Men’s Night at Old School Boxing • 8:00 to 9:00pm – 14+ Swim at the Sparwood Pool • 9:30 to 10:30pm – Adult Rec Hockey 19+ at the Sparwood Arena

Fridays

• 6:30 to 8:00am – Early Bird Swim at the Sparwood Pool • 7:00am to 8:00pm – Fitness Centre Open at the Fernie Aquatic Centre • 7:00am to 1:00pm – Public Swim at the Fernie Aquatic Centre • 8:00 to 9:30am – Lanes and Leisure at the Sparwood Pool • 8:30 to 9:15am – Active Fit at the Fernie Aquatic Centre • 9:30 to 10:30am –Aquafit at the Sparwood Pool • 9:30 to 10:15am – Aquafit at the Elkford Aquatic Centre • 10:00 to ll:00am – Kindergym (1-5 year olds) Fernie Family Centre • 10:30 to noon – Lanes and Leisure at the Sparwood Pool • 10:30 to noon – Toonie Swim at the Elkford Aquatic Centre • 10:45 to 11:45am – Youth Shinny at the Fernie Memorial Arena (No School Fridays)

• 10:30 to 11:15am – Gentle Fit at the Fernie Aquatic Centre • 12:00 to 1:00pm – Skate & Shoot Hockey 18+ at the Sparwood Arena • 12:00 to 12:45pm – Public Skate at the Fernie Memorial Arena (No School Fridays) • 12:00 to 1:00pm – Lane Swim at the Sparwood Pool • 12:00 to 1:00pm – Skate & Shoot Hockey 18+ at the Sparwood Arena • 3:00 to 8:00pm – Public Swim at the Fernie Aquatic Centre • 3:45 to 4:45 pm – Swim Club at the Elkford Aquatic Centre • 4:00 to 5:30pm - Free Swim at the Sparwood Pool • 4:00 to 6:00pm – Water Slide open at Fernie Aquatic Centre • 5:00 to 6:00pm – Lane Swim at the Elkford Aquatic Centre • 5:30 to 6:30pm – Lane Swim at the Sparwood Pool • 5:30 to 6:30pm – Public Skate/ Rec Hockey at the Sparwood Arena • 6:00 to 8:00pm - $3.00 Swim at the Elkford Aquatic Centre • 6:30 to 9:00pm – Public Swim at the Sparwood Pool • 7:00pm to 8:15pm – Public Skate at the Fernie Memorial Arena • 7:00pm – Jam Night every 2nd Friday at the Sparwood Legion • 7:00pm - Jitney Darts at the Fernie Legion – everyone is welcome • 8:00 to 9:00pm – 13+ Swim at the Sparwood Pool • 8:00 to 9:00pm – Teen/Adult Swim at the Elkford Aquatic Centre

Saturdays

• Noon to 6:00pm – Public Swim at the Fernie Aquatic Centre • Noon to 6:00pm – Fitness Centre Open at the Fernie Aquatic Centre • 1:00 to 2:00pm – Lane Swim at the Sparwood Pool • 1:00 to 5:00pm – Water Slide open at Fernie Aquatic Centre • 2:00 to 3:00pm – Family Swim at the Sparwood Pool • 2:00 to 3:45pm – Public Skate at the Fernie Memorial Arena • 3:00 to 5:00pm – Public Swim at the Sparwood Pool • 2:30 to 5:00pm – Public Swim at the Elkford Aquatic Centre • 4:00 to 6:00pm - Meat Draw at the Fernie & Sparwood Legion • 5:00 to 6:00pm – Lane Swim at the Sparwood & Elkford Pool • 6:00 to 8:00pm – Public Swim at the Sparwood & Elkford Pool • 6:30 to 8:00pm – Women & Men’s Night at Old School Boxing • 6:45 to 8:15pm – Public Skate at the Fernie Memorial Arena

Sundays

• Noon to 1:00pm – Lane Swim at

the Sparwood Pool • Noon to 6:00pm – Fitness Centre Open at the Fernie Aquatic Centre • Noon to 6:00pm – Public Swim at the Fernie Aquatic Centre • 1:00 to 2:00pm – Family Swim at the Sparwood Pool • 1:00 to 5:00pm – Public Swim at the Elkford Aquatic Centre • 1:00 to 5:00pm – Water Slide open at Fernie Aquatic Centre • 2:00 to 4:00pm – Public Swim at the Sparwood Pool • 2:15 to 4:00pm – Public Skate at the Fernie Memorial Arena • 3:00 to 4:45pm – Public Skating at the Sparwood Arena • 4:00 to 5:00pm – Lane Swim at the Sparwood Pool • 5:00 to 6:00pm – Lane Swim at the Elkford Aquatic Centre • 7:30pm - Alcoholics Anonymous Meeting, Christ Church Anglican, 591 4th Ave. Fernie

UPCOMING EVENTS May 7

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June 7

7-8 15

IF4 Fly Fishing Festival at Vogue Theatre 7:00 pm – Tickets in advance at Elk River Guiding Mother’s Day Concert by The Vera Choir, Knox United Church 7:30 pm Adults $15. Children free Avalanche City Roller Girls vs. Nelson Kill Joys, Fernie Arena FernieAquatic Centre closes for annual maintenance Low Putts and Ladies Opening Fernie Golf & Country Club Sparwood and Elkford Spring Clean - Community Garage Sale East Kootenay Junior Open Fernie Golf & Country Club Fernie Spring Clean Community Garage Sale Opening Reception – New Works by Win Dinn at The Arts Station at 7:00 pm Bike Blitz, Elks Hall Avalanche City Roller Girls vs. Dirty South All Stars Fernie Arena Men’s Pro-Am Fernie Golf & Country Club Fishing Opens on the Elk River (closes Oct. 31)

www.thefreepress.ca

THE FREE PRESS Thursday, May 7, 2015

CONNECTION

CITY OF FERNIE BRITISH COLUMBIA

City of Fernie CONNECTION | Community Information and Opportunities | www.fernie.ca Notice of Intent To Close & Remove From Highway Dedication Portions of Unimproved Road Property Subject to Bylaw No. 2274

City Council Meeting Schedule

Pursuant to Section 40 of the Community Charter

May 2015 3 10 17 24 31

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Regular Council meetings are open to the public and held at City Hall at 7:00 p.m.

City of Fernie Contact Info: City Hall

NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that Council for the City of Fernie intends to consider Bylaw No. 2274 to close to traffic and remove from highway dedication unimproved areas of Whitetail Drive (east of Spruce Place) at the regular meeting of Council to be held on Monday, May 11, 2015 at 7:00 p.m. in Council Chambers, City Hall, 501 – 3rd Avenue, Fernie, BC. BYLAW:

Whitetail Drive Highway Closure and Removal of Highway Dedication, Bylaw No. 2274, 2015

LOCATION:

Portions of Whitetail Drive East of Spruce Place

LEGAL DESCRIPTION:

The portion of highway (unimproved road and walkway) dedicated by Plan NEP66828, District Lot 4589, Kootenay District, being approximately 798.7 square metres in area shown outlined in heavy black line (the “Closed Road”) on the Reference Plan EPP50690 prepared by Robert MacDonald, B.C.L.S.

Ph: 250.423.6817 Fx: 250.423.3034 Email: cityhall@fernie.ca Website: www.fernie.ca 501-3rd Avenue, Box 190 Fernie, British Columbia V0B 1M0

All persons who consider themselves affected by the proposed highway closure and dedication removal will be given an opportunity to be heard and to present written submissions on this matter. A copy of the proposed bylaw and other relevant documents may be viewed at City Hall, 501 – 3rd Avenue, Fernie, BC during normal business hours of 8:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m. April 30, 2015 to May 11, 2015 (excluding weekends and statutory holidays), or online at www.fernie.ca.

Office Hours: Mon.-Fri. 8 am-5 pm (Closed statutory holidays) After Hours Phone: 250.423.4226

The deadline for written submissions is 5:00 p.m. on MONDAY, MAY 11, 2015. Any submissions received after the deadline will not be accepted. All submissions must include your name and street address. All written submissions are public information pursuant to the Freedom of Information and Protection of Privacy Act.

Fernie Aquatic Centre 250 Pine Avenue Phone: 250.423.4466

Fernie Memorial Arena 991-6th Avenue (Highway 3)

Comments can be made in person at the Council meeting or in any of the following methods:

BY EMAIL:

cityhall@fernie.ca

IN PERSON:

City Hall 501 – 3rd Avenue

BY FAX:

(250) 423.3034

BY MAIL:

City of Fernie Planning Department PO Box 190 Fernie, BC V0B 1M0

For all Police, Ambulance or Fire related emergencies: Call 911

Leisure Services Happenings Fernie Aquatic Centre Summer Swim Lessons are open for registration.

Please visit the City website or call the Aquatic Centre for time and date for your child’s level.

Movie Night Join us at the pool for Movie Night on May 15, 2015 from 5:30pm to 8:30pm. Kids will have a fun time in the pool then into pajamas for the movie and popcorn. Please register by calling the Aquatic Centre at 250.423.4466 before May 8, 2015. Cost is only $14.67 plus GST. Aqua Adventure Summer Camps These full day adventure and swim camps include a Red Cross Swim lesson, outdoor activities, crafts, games, and supervised pool playtime.

Camps run Monday through Friday 9:00am to 4:30pm for children ages 5 to 12 years. Weekly fees are only $267.20 for 5 day week or $213.76 for 4 day week.

• • • • • • •

Session 1 - July 6th to 10th Session 2 - July 13th to 17th Session 3 - July 20th to 24th Session 4 - July 27th to July 31st Session 5 - Aug 4th to Aug 7th (4 days) Session 6 - Aug 10th to Aug 14th Session 7 - Aug 17th to Aug 21st

Aquatic Centre Annual Shutdown The annual maintenance shutdown for the Aquatic Centre is May 16 with reopening scheduled for July 1, 2015. Please note the Fitness Centre is also closed during the shutdown. We apologize to our patrons for this necessary disruption in service.

Until May 15th please call the Aquatic Centre to register for summer programs and camps at

For more information, please contact the Corporate Administration Services Department at (250) 423-6817.

This is the second of two notices published in accordance with Section 94 of the Community Charter.

250.423.4466 (ext 0) or visit the website for more information. During our SHUTDOWN please call 250.423.2245 or stop by the Court House Leisure Services Office located at 401 4th Avenue to inquire or register for Summer Camps and Aquatic Summer Programs and Lessons.

Canada Day The City of Fernie Canada Day Committee is seeking volunteers to join our committee. If you are interested in giving some time to organize this event or would like to help on the day of the event please contact Leisure Services at 250.423.2245.

Parks & Sport Fields At the beginning of May our staff initiate playground checks, open public washrooms and other service amenities. They commence spring cleanups in and around public facilities and repair damage inflicted by the winter season. Sport Fields and greenspaces begin to be maintained regularly and trails are resurfaced.

In times of early Spring conditions our Department is faced with many challenges as the community is desirous to get out and enjoy the weather and our various community facilities. The Leisure Services Department is asking for the public’s patience as we initiate the summer operations and respect the operational capacity of our Department to fully open our Parks, Trails, Sport Fields and Playgrounds. We want you to have a safe and enjoyable summer in our public spaces.

Please avoid accessing public spaces until they are completely dried out, especially the Sport Fields and the Dirt Jump Park. Please call our Department to report any damage or concerns immediately 250.423.2245.

Summer Facility Rentals Weddings and Family Reunions to be held in City of Fernie’s public areas require a booking through the Leisure Services Department. If you are planning an event please call 250.423.2245 to reserve the space.

Special Occasion Liquor Licencing If you are thinking of applying for a Special Occasion Liquor Licence (SOL) or Temporary Change to your existing liquor licence for an upcoming public or private event, please visit the Liquor Licences page on the City website for application information and requirements and to view the Municipal Liquor Licence Policy.

Businesses are advised a complete application including the supporting documents (as identified in Section 1.2 of the Municipal Liquor Licence Policy) must be submitted a minimum of twenty (20) business days in advance of the event(s). Applications received after this time but before the Liquor Control and Licensing Branch (LCLB) deadline for submission will incur a late penalty fee of $50. Applications after the LCLB deadline may not be accepted. Please contact the Corporate Administration Services Department for further information at 250.423.6817 or cityhall@fernie.ca.

Annual Spring Cleanup Starts Tuesday, May 19, 2015 The City of Fernie is once again offering residential households within the City of Fernie FREE pick up of LAWN AND GARDEN WASTE (NO household garbage – just grass clippings, brush, weeds and small tree branches less than 6” in diameter). Garden waste must be placed on the curb by 7:00am on your pickup day in the same location as regular garbage pick-up in all areas except the Annex and Maintown which will be picked up in the alley. You DO NOT PICK UP AREAS AND DATES HAVE TO REGISTER for this Area Pick Up Date service. GARDEN REFUSE Annex (place items in alley) & Riverside Tues May 19 & Wed May 20 MUST BE bagged in clear Thurs May 21 & Fri May 22 plastic bags and tree / brush Airport (Mt View) & Park Avenue clippings must be securely Parkland & Alpine Trails Mon May 25 bundled, tied and piled in such a way that it can be picked up Ridgemont, Silver Ridge, Pine Grove, Tues May 26 & Wed May 27 by a loader. Please do not pile Fernie Mobile Home Park, Castle up loose leaves and materials Mountain – You will be responsible for Maintown (place items in alley) Thurs May 28 & Fri May 29 cleaning up wind blown debris.

Attention SENIORS! Free Household Refuse and Reusable/ Recyclable Goods Pickup JUST FOR YOU! If you have large items of household refuse or recyclable/reusable goods that you wish to have hauled away (old furniture, old appliances, white goods with Freon removed, etc.) the City will pick up and dispose of these items during the Annual Spring Clean Up between May 19 and May 29, 2015.

Please separate your items into refuse, recyclable/reusable items and we will dispose of them for you.

This FREE SERVICE is just for seniors and YOU MUST REGISTER IN ADVANCE by calling City Hall at 250.423.6817. Please have your items to the curb by 7:00 a.m. on the dates we are in your area per the Annual Spring Cleanup schedule. To receive this free service you must be a senior 65 years or older.

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THE FREE PRESS Thursday, May 7, 2015

d is tr i c t o f spa rwo o d Box 520, 136 Spruce Avenue, Sparwood, BC V0B 2G0 Phone: 250.425.6271 | Fax: 250.425.7277 Email: sparwood@sparwood.ca

www.sparwood.ca

Upcoming Meetings of Council Tuesday, May 19

Monday, May 25 Monday, June 1

Town Hall Meeting

(in Council Chambers)

7:00 pm to 9:00 pm on Wednesday, May 13, 2015 Sparwood Recreation Centre (Arena) Foyer, 367 Pine Avenue Snacks and Door Prizes!

Regular Meeting at 7:00 pm

Committee of the Whole Meeting at 1:00 pm

Regular Meeting at 1:00 pm

2015 – 2018 Corporate Strategic Plan

The 2015-2018 Corporate Strategic Plan is now available on the District's website at www.sparwood.ca or can be picked up at the Municipal Office, 136 Spruce Avenue. The Plan which includes Council's goals and objectives, provides direction to District staff on the projects and initiatives to be undertaken during their term of office.

Citizens are encouraged to read the document and provide their feedback which shall be considered during the annual review of the Plan.

Mayor McDougall and Council invite the public to attend a Town Hall meeting on Wednesday, May 13, 2015 to provide citizens with an update on what is happening around town and with an overview of our current projects.

Setting priorities in the ever-changing municipal environment presents both opportunities and challenges – making it more important than ever that we hear from members of the community regarding the services and changes taking place in our community.

There is no set agenda at a Town Hall Meeting. This informal meeting is to provide community members with an opportunity to voice their opinions, suggest new ideas or ask questions of Council. All are welcome to attend the Town Hall Meeting in person.

Anyone not available to attend is encouraged to share their ideas and suggestions in writing to Sparwood@sparwood.ca.

Comments on other topics or concerns are welcome!

Casual Labourer

Celebrate BC Mining Week – May 3 – 9, 2015

District of Sparwood Community & Facility Services Department Application Deadline: Monday May 18th, 2015

Sparwood is looking for interested applicants for a casual labourer position to work with the Sparwood Leisure Centre maintenance team. The Casual Labourer helps to maintain the Leisure Centre facilities and parks throughout the year. The incumbent provides custodial services, removes garbage, sets up and takes down events, assists in the installation of ice surfaces, maintenance of parks, fields, landscaping, snow removal etc. This is a great entry level position for those interested in becoming a permanent employee at the District of Sparwood. Incumbents must have or are willing to get their Refrigeration Safety Awareness Certificate and basic first aid. Other qualifications include a valid class 5 driver’s licence, WHIMIS, a basic understanding of, and skills in, plumbing and carpentry. The incumbent must be physically fit and have exemplary customer service skills. The successful applicant will be required to demonstrate basic skill sets prior to a final offer of employment. The current wage is $24.64 and is a casual on call position. Applications including a cover letter, resume and references may be forwarded to Box 669, 367 Pine Ave. Sparwood, BC V0B 2G0 or via email at dlawrence@sparwood.ca no later than Monday May 18th at 3:00 pm.

RESIDENTIAL SPRING CLEANUP Begins Tuesday May 19th, 2015

Any person wishing to take advantage of this service is required to register at the District Office no later than Friday May 15th, 2015 and pay the required fee of $20.00.

Seniors 65 and over receive this service free of charge.

Please register in person or by calling the District Office at 250.425.6271. **Limit of 1 Pickup Truck Load per Household**

All refuse including household furniture; white goods, metal and wood will be picked up including fridges, freezers and air conditioners. All refuse for disposal must be separated, placed just outside your property line and piled in such a manner that it can be picked up with a loader. Small branches must be tied or secured in bundles.

The following items WILL NOT be picked up: ✔ Trees and large branches ✔ Tires over 16” in diameter ✔ Vehicles ✔ Construction refuse ✔ Batteries ✔ Special Wastes as defined by the ✔ Oil or used oil filters Ministry of Environment Recyclable material (must be taken to recycling depots) ALL REFUSE MUST BE OUT BY 8:00AM ON TUESDAY MAY 19TH, 2015

The District of Sparwood is Proud to Salute all the Mines in the Elk Valley

We recognize the on-going support that the mines provide to the community, not only by way of taxation and employment, but also by the support they give the community through donations, time and scholarships.

Join Teck Coal for a free mine tour of one of their five operations in the Elk Valley.

Call the Chamber of Commerce at 250.425.2423 to book a tour.

This is an opportunity to see where steelmaking coal comes from and to learn about mining from exploration to production to reclamation.

Your chance to help make history!

Sparwood is turning 50 and we are looking for someone who would like to contribute to this great occasion by working with the organizational committee.

50th BIRTHDAY – ADMINISTRATIVE SUPPORT CONTRACT POSITION

Join a team of community volunteers to help organize Sparwood’s 50th Birthday, taking place in May of 2016.

This short term, part time contract is for the provision of administrative support to the Committee, between now and May of 2016. If you are: • • • • •

Highly organized and able to work without supervision Able to commit to approximately 20 hours a month, daytime and/or evening Well versed in Microsoft Office Word, PowerPoint, and adobe software (in-design would be an asset) Able to compose correspondence, create agendas and take minutes Full of creative ideas

We want to hear from you!

While we greatly appreciate all the replies we receive, regretfully only those selected for an interview will be contacted. This contract position pays $20/hour, with no guaranteed number of hours per month.

Please submit your resume to tmelcer@sparwood.ca by 4:00 pm May 11, 2015 to be considered.

Terry Melcer, CAO District of Sparwood Box 520, 136 Spruce Avenue Sparwood, BC V0B 2G0 Tel (Direct) 250 425-6810

THE FREE PRESS Thursday, May 7, 2015

Happy Mother’s Day

bouquet of flowers is a classic gift that never goes out of fashion. They’re beautiful, colourful and fragrant, and they’re always appreciated by the re­cipient. What sort of flowers will you be offering your amazing mom on Mother’s Day? Ideally, you should give your mom a bouquet of her favourite flowers, but maybe you don’t know which ones she likes best. Don’t worry; there are a few ge­neral guidelines to help you choose. Peonies symbo­ lize sincerity of feeling, lilies express both sweetness and purity and white orchids represent purity of love.

They are all popular for Mother’s Day, right alongside classic roses, the ultimate symbol of love.

You could choose a bouquet of only one kind of flower or a floral composition combining lilies with other varieties. When choosing a colour scheme, opt for soft pastels such as pink and white. If your mom prefers brighter colours, opt for a bouquet in shades of orange or purple, or for a bouquet of different-coloured roses.

If you want to give a gift that lasts more than a few days (and your mother has a little bit of a green thumb), you can opt for a potted plant rather than cut flowers. Lilies and orchids, for example, are usually available in pots as well as in bouquets.

One last tip: go to the florists early enough in the day to avoid the rush and have your pick of the choicest flowers. Flower shops are always busy on Mother’s Day.

Stanford Tandoor & Grill

Mother’s Day Dinner Buffet All mothers receive a flower!

Sunday, May 10 ~ 5:00 to 10:00 pm Delicious East Indian Dinner Buffet

Adults ~ $25.95

Seniors ~ $22.95

Kids (6-10) ~ $12.95

Kids Under 6 ~ FREE

Please phone for reservations

Fernie Stanford Resort 100 Riverside Way | Fernie BC | Toll Free 1-877-423-5600 | 250-423-5000 info@ferniestanfordresort.com | www.stanfordresorts.com

Gifts to thrill your mom

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PHOTO: BANANASTOCK / THINKSTOCK

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Which flowers to give the world’s best mom?

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other’s Day is almost here and you’re still searching for the perfect gift, one that will make your mother’s eyes shine with delight?

Don’t get discouraged. Here are some suggestions that could ins­pire you.

• Jewelry, the ultimate in fashion accessories, is always popular. A great way to express your love is to have an af­ f ectionate message engraved inside a beautiful ring.

There are also all kinds of heartshaped pendants and earrings that are perfect for saying “I love you, Mom.” • How about a gift to fuel one of your mother’s passions. Watch her glow with happiness when she realizes you’ve given her tickets to a show starring her favourite singer, a subscription to a specialized magazine, a book by a recommended

author, a boxed DVD set of a TV show she likes, kitchen accessories or a gift certificate for a new pair of shoes. You know your mother well enough to identify what she lo­ves most.

• Some gifts can’t be bought, but they’re no less valuable. You could help her out by preparing a week’s worth of meals or washing all her windows — you know how much she hates that particular chore. Or simply spend the day with her; go out for a walk together, watch her fa­ vourite movies or play some board games.

If you really don’t know what would please your mo­ ther most, take her shopping a few days before Mother’s Day and take note of what catches her eye. Then you can go back without her to buy the perfect gift.

Mother's Day Brunch

Sunday, May 10th 10am - 2pm

Full Buffet with Carving Station Includes Coffee, Tea and Beverages $25.00/person $15 12yrs and under 20% off Seniors Reservations Recommended 102A Red Cedar Drive, Sparwood Phone: 1-250-425-2003 Fax: 1-250-425-2023 Email: infosparwood@causewaybayhotels.ca

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THE FREE PRESS Thursday, May 7, 2015

Happy Mother’s Day

“Mommy” A little word filled with so much love “

M

ommy” is just a small, two-syllable word, and yet it is so important to every one of us. Often the first word spoken by babies, “Mommy” represents the magical heart of the ever-expanding universe of young children. The relationship between a child and its mother or mother figure cannot be compared to any other human relationship.

In the best of worlds, “Mommy” evokes gentleness and firmness, kisses and hugs.

She is the angel of the night come to rescue us from nightmares. She is the nurse who tends to scraped knees, the caregiver who dons an apron to prepare healthy meals, and the fairy who never forgets to make you a birthday cake. She is the one who feels the pain of your heartache and who will always defend you when you’re attacked.

Your mother is the one who knows you best, the one who helps you overcome obstacles and dreams of a beautiful future for you. She helps you build your confidence and surpass yourself. She shows you the value of wisdom rather than misplaced pride.

Baby birds grow up

and leave the nest to lead their own lives.

With maturity, a growing child learns discernment and sees parents for the human beings they are, with their strengths and weaknesses. Rather than spoiling their love, this discovery is often the source of a closer relationship for adult children and their mothers. Even if your childhood was less than ideal, the affection that unites you both will only grow as you understand that your mother did the best she could with the resources she had.

Make this Mother’s Day a time of gratitude.

Thank your mom for guiding you and helping you become the adult you are today.

The word “mother” evokes gentleness and firmness, kisses and hugs.

Join us for Mother’s Day Brunch Buffet Sunday, May 10 10 am to 1 pm

CHOOSE FROM THE FOLLOWING AND MORE: •Fresh baked bread and pastries •Pancakes with Canadian maple syrup •Eggs Benedict •Bacon and breakfast sausages •Roast beef carving station •Roasted small potatoes •Wild Sockeye Salmon with herb and lemon sauce •Oven baked chicken drumsticks & St Louis ribs •Mac and cheese casserole •Antipasto platter, cold cuts and cheeses •Variety of salads •Mussels, shrimp and smoked salmon •“Sliders” •A selection of homemade desserts and •Everyone’s favourite, the chocolate fountain! •Tea & coffee

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$

95

adult

10

$

95

kids

Children 5 & Under Eat Free!

Taxes and gratuities not included.

Call for Reservations 250-423-3002 | 301 Hwy 3 All mothers get a complimentary mimosa.

THE FREE PRESS Thursday, May 7, 2015

Happy Mother’s Day

13

Moms are celebrated around the world

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Let her know how grateful you are

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others give so much of themselves to their children, from the time they’re babies, through childhood and beyond the trials of adolescence. That’s half a lifetime spent caring for their children! Honoured since antiquity, motherhood represents the source of life and nurturing.

Why not make your cherished mother’s greatest wish come true for Mother’s Day? If you and your sibling haven’t been on speaking terms for months, if you’re annoyed with a family member over a trifle, why not bury the hatchet, turn the page, and try to get along for your mother’s sake. A family reconciliation might very well be the most wonderful gift she could receive.

Perhaps you don’t demonstrate the love you feel for your mother on a regular basis.

PHOTO: DIGITAL VISION / THINKSTOCK

verybody is convinced that Sunday in May as Mother’s Day. the best mom in the world is theirs. That’s probably why Since then, many countries Mother’s Day is celebrated in including Canada, Brazil, Italy, dozens of countries around the Japan, and Belgium have followed world, although not always on the this lead and made the second same date.

Sunday in May a day of flowers There’s nothing new about and words of love for moms. honouring a mother’s unique role Strangely enough, Mother’s Day within the family and society as a is celebrated on a wide range of whole. Ancient Greeks were dates around the world. It’s known to celebrate Rhea, the celebrated as early as February in mother of the Gods, and countless Norway and as late as December other religions have celebrated the in Panama and Indonesia. fertility and nurturing qualities of Between these two extremes, women. hardly a month goes by without The perpetuation of this some country honouring their tradition in North America goes mothers with a special day. One back to an American, Anna Jarvis, thing is certain though, no matter who lost her mother on the second the place or the date, mothers Sunday of May, 1906. She deserve to be celebrated! convinced the authorities in her small Virginian town to mark Mother’s Day with a religious ceremony the following year. The idea was so popular that the entire state of Virginia began an official celebration for mothers in 1907. A few years later, in 1914, U.S. President Woodrow Mother’s Day is celebrated on different Wilson officially dates around the world. designated the second

Mother’s Day Brunch Sunday May 10, 2015 • 10am to 2pm Cold Items: Hot Items: Applewood Smoked Bacon Spolumbo’s Maple Breakfast Sausages Fresh Scrambled Eggs with Fine Herbs Eggs Benedict with Housemade Hollandaise Housemade Hash Browned Potatoes Chef Carved Herb Crusted Triple A Alberta Prime Rib with Au Jus and Horseradish Atlantic Salmon Loins with Lemon Scented Cream Sauce Grilled Coconut Chicken Breasts with a Spicy Apricot Mango Curry Sauce Spicy Asian Shrimp Kabobs Garlic Roasted Russian Fingerling Potatoes Wild Rice Mix Pilaf Seasonal Fresh Vegetables

A Variety of Pastries and Local Breads Fusilli Pasta Salad with Pesto Mayo, Sun Dried Tomatoes, Artichokes, Olives and Red Peppers Caesar Salad with Housemade Dressing Mykonos Greek Salad with Feta Cheese and Kalamata Olives Assorted Canadian and European Cheeses with Fresh Fruit Selection of Iced Seafood including Shrimp, Crab & BBQ Salmon

Reservations recommended Walk-ins welcome Adults $30.95 Seniors $19.95 Youth (7-12yrs) $13.95 Under 8 yrs free with adult

Mother’s Day is the ideal moment to express this love, with heartfelt wishes, gifts, or gestures that will go straight to her heart. If you have a limited budget, offer her some quality time, spent together doing an activity she particularly loves. Or help her out with some chores she finds difficult. At the very least, a pretty card in which you express your wholehearted love for her will surely bring her joy.

Another great idea is to develop the habit of expressing your gratitude to your mother and spoiling her every chance you get. It will allow you to build a closer relationship with her, something that might feel great for both of you. Why wait for Mother’s Day to show your affection to the one who gave you life and to tell her how much you love her?

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THE FREE PRESS Thursday, May 7, 2015

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Arts&Entertainment WhatsOn THE FREE PRESS Thursday, May 7, 2015

What’s on in the Elk Valley this week.

From left to right: Fernie Academy Players Joy Attalla, Olivia Sombrowski, Rachel Barden and Chloe Savage reenacted Shakepeare’s A Midsummer Night’s Dream.

Photo by S. Kucharski

Baughan, adding, “Each of the plays last approximately 20 minutes because it’s Shakespeare bridged,” he Fernie Academy Players she explained of the night’s took on a variety of performances, which was an encore Shakespeare plays to delight of the Academy’s Shakesperean a packed audience at Knox United debut the night before.

Church on Tuesday, April 21.

“It’s been a challenging process The fourth for the students annual “Night to master such of Shakespeare” “It’s been a difficult texts was opened with challenging process but they’ve a brief prelude of really taken to for the students to “Royals” by Lorde, the material and master such difficult foreshadowing the they’re a great texts but they’ve contemporarily group of kids,” really taken to the dressed rendition of she said. material.”

As You Like It that The night followed. continued on Denise Baughan One of a light note Fernie Academy drama Shakespeare’s with another of teacher earliest comedies Shakespeare’s kept attendees c o m e d i e s laughing with following the amusing entanglements of mistaken quintessential tragedy. A Midsummer love and mistaken identity being Night’s Dream saw fairies flutter, a played across the stage. donkey laugh and actors conduct The modernity ended here, a play within a play before the though, as the Grade 4-7 students students had their final bow. paid tribute to the Shakespeare The night was rounded out with classic Romeo and Juliet in traditional performances of Richard the Third costumes. and King Lear.

The students themselves had been Music teacher Alison Pace and practicing the material since mid- Katie Lane also played vital roles in December under the direction of bringing the project to life. drama teacher Denise Baughan.

“The kids have been great,” said

By Sarah Kucharski Free Press Staff

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ELKFORD PUBLIC LIBRARY

SPARWOOD PUBLIC LIBRARY

592 - 3rd Ave. 250-423-4458

816 Michel Rd 250-865-2912

110 Pine Ave. 250-425-2299

Mon. Closed Tues.-Wed. 11am-6pm Thurs. 11am-8pm Fri. 11am-6pm Sat. 1-5pm Sun. 1-5pm

Mon. Closed Tues.-Wed. 10am-5pm

Mon. Closed Tues. 10am-8pm Wed. 10am-5pm Thurs. 10am-8pm Fri.-Sat. 10am-5pm Sun. 12-4 pm

Thurs.-Fri. 11am-6pm Sat. 12-5pm Sun. Closed

Space donated by The Free Press

favourite holidays is coming up. Well, technically it Shelby Cain isn’t actually a holiday, but I anticipate it as if it were a full week vacation in Hawaii. Mother’s Day. It’s a big deal around our house. The girls have been working tirelessly on their school presentations. They are both hosting a tea party, where I get to come and be served and celebrated. I can’t wait. I know they’ll be doing some sort of song or poem in front of the group, but the content has been very top secret. They haven’t leaked a word of what I can expect. When I asked Four, she simply answered me in a singsong voice, “I can’t tell, but I know there will be some tears.” And she’s right. I can’t hold it together when it comes to my kids. Before I had them, I would go years without actually shedding a tear. I’ve just never been much of a crier. I’d rather punch something…or someone. But that was before kids. Now I’m a big weepy mess at the slightest show of their love or appreciation for me. Or if I see certain commercials. Or a sad pet. What the heck is wrong with me? The flood gates have been opened. Or maybe it’s the hormone gates. Last year both the girls had to fill out forms describing my likes and dislikes.

It was hilarious. And very enlightening.

Four guessed I was about eight years old.

Six’s guess was a little closer, at 99. Ouch.

Their answers then ran the gamut of being very accurate, like that my favourite food to cook is guacamole, the stuff I’ve never uttered before, like that my favourite sport is beach volleyball. One thing really struck me. When asked what my favourite thing to do was, their answers were identical.

Cleaning. My mom loves to clean. Oh man. It made me realize that where kids are concerned, action speaks louder than words. I can tell them until I’m blue in the face that my favourite things to do are to go for family hikes, ride my bike, have campfires. It doesn’t matter. They observe our behaviours, and come to conclusions based on them. They call our bluff. The thing my mom spends the most time doing on a daily basis, or at least talking about doing, must be what she likes the best. Otherwise, why would she do it? It reminded me that we are setting an example every day for these little brains to soak up, and while being able to see the floor of their bedrooms can be important, so is learning to drop everything and go kick a ball around in the yard. And being kind. And laughing a lot. And making really good guacamole.

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FERNIE PUBLIC LIBRARY

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Kitchen always open

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ELK VALLEY Libraries

The Parent Trip

In

Where for art thou Fernie Academy

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Patio & ive L Music

Thursday: $8 espresso martinis (2oz) Friday: HARK RAVING SIRENS PLAY LIVE FROM 8PM Sunday: $10 roast beef 6-8pm (May is the last roast month!!)

New Summer Monday: Menu $6 meals all day!

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CAN’T MISS Vogue Theatre:

Tonight

7:00 p.m. (doors open at 6 p.m.)

Featuring the latest and greatest Fly Fishing Films including the new ‘Secrets’ from Fly Fusion TV, shot in and around Fernie!

Tickets: $15 in advance at Elk River Guiding Co. / $18 at the door if available.

Great prizes!

Knox United Church:

May

8

A Mother’s Day Concert The Vera Choir of Jaffray invites you to: “Mothers of all Life Within”, a concert of choral music honouring all mothers.

7:30 p.m.

201 – 2nd Ave., Fernie Admission $15 – Free for Children

Submit your posters and approximately 50 words of text describing your event to customerservice@thefreepress.ca Only two events will be sponsored, so first come first served.

Best Bevvies

This week’s recommended drink is Prohibition Smuggler Scotch Ale. It’s a traditional dark Scottish Ale perfect for those looking for a robust pint without a bitter taste.

Drink recommendations are from Brigid Cook, the manager of Spirits Cold Beer & Wine Shop at the Park Place Lodge

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THE FREE PRESS Thursday, May 7, 2015

The Free Press book review

We are Water by Wally Lamb

The Library is getting painted

A review of the implosion of an American family

Come in and check it out!

Thank you for your patience and understanding

Have you checked out the Events Calendar on our website?

It's a great place to check out the latest happenings at the library!

Call the Library at 250-423-4458 or check our website for details at http://fernie.bclibrary.ca

We watch the family evolve through divorce, gay marriage and childhood tragedy. Annie is painted as an insecure and hot-tempered mother, often cold and withdrawn. The readers will find themselves loving her for her flaws, in spite of her reckless destruction of her classic American family.

The characters are unique and relatable. Among them are Orion Oh, Annie’s doting and distracted husband, Marissa Oh, her struggling actress daughter; and don’t be surprised if you can even find sympathy for cousin Kent, an instrumental and dislikeable cog in the machine that is Annie Oh. Wally Lamb designs characters that feel tangible and human, textured and robust.

A most enjoyable and thought-provoking read, and the most reader-friendly of Lamb’s creations.

Submitted by Adrienne Raczki

H

aving just finished this masterfully crafted novel I am saddened that it is over. The story unfolds as it is being narrated by many integral characters, each chapter illuminating a new facet of the growing story. We are introduced to Annie Oh, wife, mother and artist. A woman blackened by her tragic childhood, who uses her past to create her ‘Angry Art.’ The story pivots around Annie and her upcoming wedding to Viveca, the art dealer she ultimately leaves her psychologist husband for.

Set in New England and New York, this layered and complex novel melds together like a well-shuffled deck, each chapter weaving the yarn of the story into a beautiful tapestry.

PROFESSIONAL DIRECTORY Call 250-423-4666 or email customerservice@thefreepress.ca

Elk Valley Wine

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& U-Brew

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Sports

THE FREE PRESS Thursday, May 7, 2015

17

Local huntress takes a top spot in world competition

Elkford hunter Erica Forsyth was nominated to compete Huntress competition.

By Katelyn Dingman Free Press Staff

C

onquering the Elk Valley forests, Elkford local Erica Forsyth recently gained a semi-finalist spot in the global Extreme Huntress competition.

In the competition against hundreds of females around

the world, the young local hunter has to Elkford to raise their children. the opportunity to hunt at the worldAs a mother of two daughters, aged seven and fourForsyth noted that she brings her daughters out hunting renowned 777 Ranch in Texas.

Over the next few months, Forsyth with her as much as possible, adding. “One of my biggest achievements is that I’ve made two future will be judged huntresses.” based on online Aside from sharing her love of hunting votes, in addition to “I’m so passionate with her daughters and husband, Forsyth her self-promotion about it because you is also a member of the East Kootenay Big and entrance essay. feel so strong and Game Club and the Elkford Rod and Gun “It’s about proyou learn so many Club, a club she has been a member of for moting women different abilities that the past seven years. and bringing other “It’s wonderful,” Forsyth said. “They do women into the outyou never would have so many different activities. Everybody supdoors,” Forsyth said known.” ports each other.” of the competition.

It’s that community support Forsyth is “It’s [about creatErica Forsyth hoping to receive as she heads into the ing] awareness and Local hunter second round of the Extreme Huntress comletting everybody petition. know that this is a Over the next month, Forsyth will be positive thing.”

Born and raised in the Elk Valley, judged based on her online votes, online profile and her Forsyth began hunting with her father ability to successfully campaign herself as an Extreme at a young age. Her passion for hunting Huntress.

If Forsyth is chosen as a top six finalist, she will travel grew when she met her husband and to the famed 777 Ranch in Texas for a head-to-head comstarting hunting with him in Alberta.

The eager huntress said it took moving petition that will test the women on their physical fitness, away from her hometown of Elkford to tracking and hunting skills. The Extreme Huntress show in the Extreme truly realize her passion for the sport. will be aired on Sunday, October 5, running for a total of Submitted photo “I’m so passionate about it because 13 weeks.

Supporters will have a chance to vote after each epiyou feel so strong and you learn so many different abilities that you never sode and the winner of the Extreme Huntress show will would have known,” Forsyth said of her penchant for be announced at the Dallas Safari Club convention on hunting. “I think it’s very important to get children and January 16, 2016, where they will receive bragging rights women into this so they can set goals and achieve them in addition to an exclusive Extreme Huntress award sculpted by artist Mark James. for themselves.”

To view Forsyth’s profile and vote for her, visit www.

Missing the forests and mountain peaks of British Columbia, Forsyth and her husband Dylan moved back extremehuntress.com

Elk Valley Dolphins Support for sport society splash into spring A

By Sarah Kucharski Free Press Staff

pleased to partner with ViaSport to establish the PacificSport Columbia Basin Society. It will draw on the expertise of the broader provincial alliance to advance local priorities,” added Muth.

“ViaSport’s mandate is to increase awareness, opportunity and participation in sport across the province, at every stage of life and in every community,” said Cathy Priestner Allinger, ViaSport CEO.

n initiative to promote sport and physical activity in the Columbia Basin has been formed.

The PacificSport Columbia Basin Society will provide services and programs for local athletes, coaches, officials and volunteers as well as promote health by encouraging and helping the public to participate in physical activities.

“The Trust has been working on this since May 2013 to determine how we can best support sport and physical activity in the Basin,” said Neil Muth, Columbia Basin Trust Wednesday, May 20 – 7:00pm President Annex Room in the Fernie Memorial Arena and CEO in a press release.

The society will receive $10 membership to be $1.1 million in funding allowed to vote split between CBT and New members always ViaSport over welcome the next three years. “ We ’ r e

Fernie Ghostriders Hockey Club

The Elk Valley Dolphin Swim Club (EVDSC) hosted a swim meet on the weekend of April 24-26.

Submitted photo Submitted

T

he Elk Valley Dolphin Swim Club (EVDSC) hosted over 260 swimmers from seven clubs in B.C. and Alberta on the weekend of April 24-26. Thirty-eight EVDSC swimmers competed and many achieved personal best times with some even achieving provincial standards (A or AA) times! Coaches Hailey Wright, Elisa Ogura, Patty

Vadnais and Jera Kipnik said they couldn’t be prouder of all the swimmers. They congratulated them on all their hard work and dedication over the last year.

The EVDSC would like to thank all the coaches, officials, volunteers, sponsors, and spectators for coming out and supporting the competitors.

Without their support, the swim meet would not have been the success it was.

A.G.M.

18

THE FREE PRESS Thursday, May 7, 2015

about BC’s Clean Electricity Future

www.thefreepress.ca

Wetlands workshop makes waves

The workshop itself included indoor training hosted at the College of the Rockies as well as hands-on mapping at the McDougall Wetlands, BC Wildlife Federation (BCWF) work- located on the east end of the city. shop highlighting the importance of wet“We had some great feedback lands in the Elk River from participants who said they was held on Sunday, April learned a lot,” said Fletcher, “The workshop was 26. who noted that a number of The workshop was set up to support an members from ERA and the appropriately timed to take initiative that the Elk Fish and Game Club were place on the heels of the River Alliance (ERA) is in attendance in addition to BCWF convention that was members of the public. currently undertaking to hosted in Fernie just a few “For many who don’t know increase their capacity days prior. much about the wetlands, it to manage floods in the Sixteen individuals was an eye-opener on why area.” attended the workshop to they’re so important here and to learn more about how to society at large. For others more Neil Fletcher increase community capacity experienced, they received Wetlands program to map and conserve some information that inspired coordinator wetlands in the Elk River. them to do more mapping in “The workshop was set up the Elk River watershed,” said to support an initiative that Fletcher. the Elk River Alliance (ERA) The workshop was funded by a number of grant is currently undertaking to increase their capacity agencies including the Columbia Basin Trust, to manage floods in the area,” said Wetlands the provincial government and Environment program coordinator Neil Fletcher.

Canada.

By Sarah Kucharski Free Press Staff

with MLA Bill Bennett 1. In BC, unlike Alberta and Ontario, 95% of our electricity is produced without fossil fuels. The Site C project will provide another 100 years of clean energy to add to one of the world’s most reliable electric systems.

2. 20% of our electricity comes from private renewable power projects scattered across the province with wind farms and run of river hydro being the most common technologies. In the future, once Site C is completed, we will need more electricity from these renewable technologies.

3. As Minister of Energy and Mines, my focus is keeping rates as low as possible. British Columbia has one of the most ambitious conservation programs in North America which helps keep costs down by avoiding the need to build new generation facilities. When we do need new generation, we need to buy the most cost effective power available and private sector competition between various renewable technologies will ensure that ratepayers get the best deal.

Bill Bennett MLA, Kootenay East www.billbennettmla.bc.ca

A

Regional District of East Kootenay Public Hearing Notice - Bylaw Amendment BYLAW 2597 - Highway #3 / Webster

Public Hearing Notice - Bylaw Amendment BYLAW 2598 - West Fernie / Heslop

The Regional District of East Kootenay (RDEK) Board of Directors is considering an amendment to the Elk Valley Zoning Bylaw. If approved, the amendment will change the designation of part of the subject property to permit a subdivision to create one new residential lot. The subject land is located at 3909 Highway 3, about 2.4 kms south of Fernie Alpine Resort, as shown on the attached map.

The Regional District of East Kootenay (RDEK) Board of Directors is considering an amendment to the Elk Valley Zoning Bylaw. If approved, the amendment will change the designation of the subject property to permit a two lot subdivision. The subject land is located at 1369 and 1389 Hand Avenue in West Fernie, as shown on the attached map.

Bylaw No. 2597 cited as “Regional District of East Kootenay – Elk Valley Zoning Bylaw No. 829, 1990 – Amendment Bylaw No. 73, 2015 (Highway 3 / Webster)” will amend the designation of part of District Lot 12747, Kootenay District Except Part Included in Plan R368 from RR-8, Rural Residential (Country) Zone to RS-4, Single Residential (Extensive) Zone.

The public hearing will be held at: Fernie Family Centre 521 - 4th Avenue Fernie, BC Wednesday, May 20, 2015 at 4:00 pm The Board has delegated the holding of this hearing to the Directors for Electoral Area A and the City of Fernie.

If you believe that your interest in property is affected by the proposed Bylaw, you may prior to the hearing: • inspect the Bylaw and supporting information at the RDEK office in Cranbrook from 8:30 am to 4:30 pm Monday through Friday, excluding statutory holidays; • mail, fax or email written submissions to the addresses/ numbers shown below; or • present written and/or verbal submissions at the hearing.

Bylaw No. 2598 cited as “Regional District of East Kootenay – Elk Valley Zoning Bylaw No. 829, 1990 – Amendment Bylaw No. 74, 2015 (Hand Ave. / Heslop)” will amend the designation of Parcel B (See K6737) of Lot 8, Block 4, District Lot 5455, Kootenay District, Plan 1613, from RR-2, Rural Residential (Small Holding) Zone to RS-1, Single Residential (Urban) Zone.

The public hearing will be held at: Fernie Family Centre 521 - 4th Avenue Fernie, BC Wednesday, May 20, 2015 at 4:00 pm The Board has delegated the holding of this hearing to the Directors for Electoral Area A and the City of Fernie.

If you believe that your interest in property is affected by the proposed Bylaw, you may prior to the hearing: • inspect the Bylaw and supporting information at the RDEK office in Cranbrook from 8:30 am to 4:30 pm Monday through Friday, excluding statutory holidays; • mail, fax or email written submissions to the addresses/numbers shown below; or • present written and/or verbal submissions at the hearing.

SUBMISSIONS CANNOT BE ACCEPTED AFTER THE PUBLIC HEARING.

SUBMISSIONS CANNOT BE ACCEPTED AFTER THE PUBLIC HEARING. All written submissions are public information pursuant to the Freedom of Information and Protection of Privacy Act. This notice is not an interpretation of the Bylaw. For more information, contact Tracy Van de Wiel, Planning Technician, at 250-489-0306, toll free at 1-888-478-7335, or email tvandewiel@rdek.bc.ca.

All written submissions are public information pursuant to the Freedom of Information and Protection of Privacy Act. This notice is not an interpretation of the Bylaw. For more information, contact Tracy Van de Wiel, Planning Technician, at 250-489-0306, toll free at 1-888-478-7335, or email tvandewiel@rdek.bc.ca.

You are invited to attend the upcoming RDEK Area A Town Hall Meeting and Volunteer of the Year Celebration. Mark your calendars and join us!

Wednesday, May 20 - 7:00pm

Area A - Hosmer Community Hall

The Volunteer of the Year Celebration will be held at 7:00pm. Please join us for refreshments and cake as we celebrate Shelby Rawson and her many contributions.

The Area A Town Hall meeting will begin at 7:30pm.

19 - 24th Avenue South, Cranbrook BC V1C 3H8 Ph: 250-489-2791 • 888-478-7335

www.thefreepress.ca

THE FREE PRESS Thursday, May 7, 2015

The Free Press Thursday, May 7, 2015

19

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The publisher shall not be liable for slight changes or typographical errors that do not lessen the value of an advertisement. bcclassified.com cannot be responsible for errors after the first day of publication of any advertisement. Notice of errors on the first day should immediately be called to the attention of the Classified Department to be corrected for the following edition. bcclassified.com reserves the right to revise, edit, classify or reject any advertisement and to retain any answers directed to the bcclassified.com Box Reply Service and to repay the customer the sum paid for the advertisement and box rental.

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APPLY NOW: A $2,500 Penny Wise scholarship is available for a woman entering the Journalism Certificate Program at Langara College in Vancouver. Application deadline May 31, 2015. Send applications to: fbula@langara.bc.ca.

More information: www.bccommunitynews.com/ our-programs/scholarship.

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In Memoriam

In Memoriam

In Memory

Advertisers are reminded that Provincial legislation forbids the publication of any advertisement which discriminates against any person because of race, religion, sex, colour, nationality, ancestry or place of origin, or age, unless the condition is justified by a bona/fide requirement for the work involved.

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STEPHEN MICHAEL

Linda Camilli May 7, 2014

“No one knows how much we miss you, No one knows the bitter pain We have suffered, since we lost you Life has never been the same.

In our hearts your memory lingers, Sweetly, tender, fond and true.

There is not a day dear mother That we do not think of you.”

Forever in our hearts John, Deana, Derek, Nicole, Amanda, Lisa Ty, Lisa, Johnathan, Kaylie, Jake, Kaylynn, Travis & Gerald

Edward Michael Zmurchyk May 3, 2014

N

o farewell words were spoken, No time to say goodbye.

You were gone before we knew it, And only God can tell us why.

It broke our hearts to lose you, But you didn’t go alone, For part of us went with you, The day God called you home.

Always in our Hearts Sisters, Diane (Joe), Pam (Rick) Brothers, Fred (Marlis), John (Susan) & Families

APRIL 21, 1969 – APRIL 16, 2015

Stephen Michael CLEGG passed away on April 16, 2015 in Kelowna BC. Stephen was born April 21, 1969 in Fernie BC., to Joyce and Robert CLEGG. He is predeceased by his father Robert. He is survived by wife Cynthia, son Roy (Kris), grandson Landyn, mother Joyce, brothers Peter (Ann), Tim (Barb), David (Pat) and Robin, sisters Sue (Alan), and Joy (Gren) as well as numerous nieces and nephews.

JUDITH DENA DAVIS 1938 – 2015 The youngest of four children, Judi was born on October 19, 1938 to John Wesley Sr. & Kathleen Stone at Bell California. In 1944 her family moved to Chester in Northern California where Judi was a valuable member of the Chester Community Methodist Church & Choir. She was a member of the school band, a member of Job’s Daughters and a member of Eastern Star at Westwood California. Judi graduated in 1956 from Chester High School and attended Chico State College for one year. She had wanted to be a Veterinarian, but found that women weren’t welcomed into that profession in those years. Judi returned home, bought her 1st horse – named Lil Britches which began her lifelong love affair with animals.

Judi and her life partner of over 40 years – Jack Cutts – lived at Sheep Mountain Ranch. She loved the Ranch – even the hard work. Judi always loved her flower gardens, tended to her chickens with loving care & more than once had livestock in the house overnight. She had many wonderful dogs over the years and her latest dog Sassy will miss her many treats! Judi also enjoyed cooking at the hunting camp in the McEvoy and always had stories to tell about their adventures at camp.

In her spare moments you would find her reading – a favorite hobby, or writing in her diary. She loved books and was a regular at the Fernie Heritage Library where she made many friendships with the staff.

Judi loved having company and made endless pots of tea & coffee. She always took pride in everyone’s accomplishments and always encouraged the kids to pursue their dreams.

Judi had a full and varied life – a life she lived the way she chose.

She touched many lives and those memories will live on for generations to come.

Judi was a loving Step Mom, Grandmother & Great Grandmother, Sister and Aunty. She is survived by many loving family & friends.

Judi was predeceased by her life partner John (Jack) Cutts, her parents, a sister, a brother & a nephew.

Memorial tributes may be made in Judith’s name to the Fernie Heritage Library, PO Box 448 Fernie BC V0B 1M0 or to CNIB, 1929 Bayview Ave. Toronto ON M4G 3E8.

Memories & condolences shared at www.cherishedmemoriesfs. com Arrangements entrusted to Cherished Memories Funeral Services Ltd.

DINGREVILLE, OLIVE MARY JANUARY 26, 1925 APRIL 29, 2015 Olive entered into eternal rest at the Rocky Mountain Village at the age of 90 years.

She was predeceased by her husband Paul, infant daughter Robin, her parents Henry & Elma Weir, & brother Gerald Weir. Olive is survived by her children: Paulette (Bud) Hutchinson, Brian (Andrea) Dingreville, Robert (Wendy) Dingreville, Bruce (Shelley) Dingreville & Shari (Ray) Rybachuk; 10 grandchildren; 14 great grandchildren and 2 sisters: Norma Slopak & Joan Lord and their families.

Olive was born in Moose Jaw, SK but spent her childhood living at Lundbreck Falls. After high school she began working as a telephone operator when she met the love of her life, Paul Dingreville. They were married in December 1945. Throughout the years, Olive worked at various jobs, from Real Estate to helping run a trailer park in Sparwood. Olive & Paul loved camping, and spent many weekends at Lundbreck Falls, or Koocanusa Lake. After Paul’s passing Olive lived at the Tom Uphill Manor, later moving into Rocky Mountain Village where she remained until her passing.

In lieu of flowers donations may be made to the Alzheimer’s Society of BC, #300 828 West 8th Ave., Vancouver BC, V5Z 1E2.

Memories & condolences shared at www.cherishedmemoriesfs. com Arrangements entrusted to Cherished Memories Funeral Services Ltd.

SCHELLER: Eileen was welcomed into the world on October 16, 1943 in Wadena, SK to Anne and Olav Haarstad, and left us on April 26, 2015 at the East Kootenay Regional Hospital, with her family by her side.

Eileen was the 4th of 5 children. She had 3 brothers and 1 sister. During her time in Saskatchewan, she attended school, helped on her parent’s farm and become a very good skip on the curling team.

Eileen met William Scheller in Saskatchewan and the two were married on July 7, 1967. Shortly afterwards, with their children Leeann and Shane, they moved to Wasa, BC. A few years later they welcomed another child, Clayton, into the family. While living in Wasa, Eileen had two horses that she cared for and rode. She took the horses to competitions around the area and won many ribbons.

The Schellers moved to Jaffray in 1976, where she made a loving home for her family and raised granddaughter Crystal as her own. During her life in Jaffray, she loved going to all the Motocross races to watch her sons Clayton and Shane race. She always had a big, beautiful garden every year and she always made her famous dill pickles for her family. She was always outside taking the grandkids for rides on her lawn tractor.

Throughout Eileen’s life she also took care of her horses, cats, dogs, and the “pet” ducks on the pond. She looked forward to her trips with Bill to Saskatchewan every year to visit all of their relatives. Eileen never missed a curling game or a Calgary Stampede Chuckwagon Race on TV, and thanks to Eileen’s phone calls, neither did her sister Annette.

Eileen will always be remembered as someone who never complained, always took care of everyone else before herself, and was always so proud of her grandkids and their accomplishments.

Eileen leaves to mourn her passing, husband Bill Scheller, son Shane (Rose) Scheller, granddaughter Crystal (Mike) Haarstad, grandchildren: Jessica, Emily, Samantha, Damon and Kate, great grandchildren: Justice, Danny, Madison, Mikey, Charlie, Chanel and Aiden, brother Gordon (Lynn) Haarstad, and sister Annette Kulcheski as well as many nieces and nephews. She was predeceased by her son Clayton, daughter Leeann, brothers Harvey and Erland Haarstad and parents Anne and Olav.

Memories and condolences shared at www. cherishedmemoriesfs.com Arrangements entrusted to Cherished Memories Funeral Services Ltd. “If love could have saved you, you would have lived forever”

20

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Education/Trade Schools MEDICAL TRANSCRIPTION! In-demand career! Employers have work-at-home positions available. Get online training you need from an employertrusted program. Visit: CareerStep.ca/MT or call 1855-768-3362 to start training for your work-at-home career today!

Thursday, May 7, 2015 The Free Press

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CHIEF EXECUTIVE Officer, Gitga’ at Development Corporation, Hartley Bay, B.C. For full job description visit www.firstnationsjobsonline.com under management positions.

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COMMUNICATIONS/EVENTS Coordinator required. Nak’azdli Whut’en Fort St. James B.C. Email applications to: executiveassistant@nakazdli.ca Attn: Maureen. For full details of this job visit: www.firstnationsjobsonline.com under management.

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Employment Opportunity

School District No. 5 (Southeast Kootenay) is now accepting applications for the following positions in Cranbrook and the Elk Valley:

PERMANENT PART-TIME PROPERTY MANAGER required in SPARWOOD, BC for townhouse rentals. Must be honest, trustworthy, fair, frugal, good judge of people, have great common sense.

Position includes organizing, administrating, record keeping, reporting, purchasing, hiring & supervising. Send resumes to primeprop@mymts.net or fax 1(204)633-8945

C112-14-15 Education Assistants – Casual on Call T215-14-15 Teachers Teaching on Call For complete details and to apply for this position please visit our website: www.sd5.bc.ca and follow the links to staff, employment.

When applying please quote posting number.

Deadline to apply – May 29, 2015. Applicants are encouraged to apply early.

For further information contact Heather Hockley, Human Resources Coordinator at: heather.hockley@sd5.bc.ca (no telephone calls please)

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PRODUCT RECALL

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Kidde Canada in conjunction withh Health Canada has announced a voluntary recall to replace certain Kidde black plastic valve disposable fire extinguishers.

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As a seasoned Publisher, you will achieve financial growth by developing and implementing strategic marketing and sales plans to generate new business and achieve the company’s business objectives.

You will have at least five years’ experience in a sales or business development role, and knowledge or experience in a community newspaper publishing environment. Your success in developing and implementing sales strategies is a result of your entrepreneurial spirit, well developed customer service and communication skills, knowledge of the publishing industry, and extensive business connections.

As the largest independent newspaper group with more than 170 titles in print and online, Black Press has operations in British Columbia, Alberta, Washington, Hawaii and Ohio.

This is a full-time position with a competitive compensation and benefits package. Qualified applicants should send a resume and covering letter before Friday, May 29th to: Black Press BC South c/o Kelowna Capital News 2495 Enterprise Way, Kelowna, B.C. V1X 7K2 Email: brucem@blackpress.ca

Place of Worship

Place of Worship

Sunday Meeting 11:00 am

Corps Officers: ..

Majors James & Gwen Hagglund

Fernie Office 250-423-4661 Fx 250-423-4668

KNOX UNITED CHURCH

SNOW VALLEY CHRISTIAN FELLOWSHIP 1361 8th Avenue, Fernie

521 4th Avenue, Fernie

EVERYONE WELCOME

Parish Office 250-423-6127 Masses:

Clergy: Jane Clarke D.L.M. 250-423-6010 www.elkvalleyunited.com

Tues. & Wed. 9:00 am Saturday 5:00 pm Sunday 9:00 am Confessions: Before 5:00 pm Mass on Saturday or by appointment

Monday Mens Fellowship...7 pm Sunday Worship & Children’s Ministry...10:30 am Friday Youth Group...7 pm Friday Morning Prayer Group...10 am

YOU’RE WELCOME AT KNOX

Father Marcel Cote

Office 250-423-4114

SPARWOOD CHRISTIAN CENTRE (formerly Fernie Baptist Church)

1622 10th Avenue, Fernie 250-423-4112 www.mountainsidechurch.ca

Sunday Services

Help Wanted

Emergency Social Services Director

YOU ARE INVITED! Mass Times: Saturdays: St. Michael’s ~ 7:00 pm Sundays: St. Michael’s ~ 11:00 am St. Bernard’s Mission, Elkford ~ 4:00 pm Thursdays: St. Michael’s ~ 6:30 pm Fridays: Lilac Terrrace ~ 11:00 am Confessions: Following each mass, or by appointment.

Pastor: Father Marcel Cote 250-425-6444

HOLY FAMILY PARISH Catholic Church

201 2nd Avenue, Fernie

Help Wanted

CONTRACT POSITION

Centennial Square, Sparwood

WELCOMES YOU

Help Wanted

Regional District of East Kootenay

ST. MICHAEL’S PARISH 741B 2nd Ave., Fernie

www.blackpress.ca

The Employment Program of British Columbia is funded by the Government of Canada and the Province of British Columbia.

ELK VALLEY CHURCH SERVICES

10:00 am 1st Tues each month 7:00 pm

Career Opportunities

A : 3 0 2 c 2 n d Av e, F er n i e P: 4 2 3-4 2 0 4

Place of Worship

Morning Services

Career Opportunities

Bruce McAuliffe, President

Need a Resume?

If you believe you may have one of these fire extinguishers please contact Kidde Canada at 1-844833-6394 (8am - 5pm) Mon-Fri or visit www.kiddecanada.com and click “Safety Notice.�

Sunday Service UCW Women’s Group

Help Wanted

436 Pine Avenue Sparwood BC V0B 2G0

250-425-7787

We are looking for a compassionate, hardworking, organized individual to fill the role of Emergency Social Services (ESS) Director for the Elk Valley and South Country Emergency Program.

The ESS Director, working on a contract basis, will receive $27.50 per hour (200 hours maximum per year) including expenses paid for training, travel and on-call.

A detailed description of the contract requirements are available on the RDEK Website www.rdek.bc.ca/careers Applicants may submit a resume the following ways: , In Person at the RDEK Office Via email to mmunro@rdek.bc.ca

By Mail to Melody Munro, RDEK, 19-24th Avenue South, Cranbrook BC V1C 3H8 Resumes will be accepted until Friday, May 8th, 2015 at 4:30 pm. We thank all applicants for their interest however only those selected for interviews will be contacted.

For more information, contact Melody Munro at 1-888-478-7335 or mmunro@rdek.bc.ca

Affiliated with the Pentecostal Assemblies of Canada (PAOC)

10:00 am in Fernie 4:00 pm Sparwood Campus gathering

Services: Sunday 10:00 am Wednesday Bible Study: 6:47 pm

Contact Pastor Shawn Barden shawnbarden@gmail.com

Everyone Welcome Pastor: Rev. R.G. (Ross) Powell

19 - 24th Avenue South, Cranbrook BC V1C 3H8 3h 2 -489-2 91 ‡ 888-4 8- 33 Email: info@rdek.bc.ca Website: www.rdek.bc.ca

www.thefreepress.ca

THE FREE PRESS Thursday, May 7, 2015

The Free Press Thursday, May 7, 2015

www.thefreepress.ca A21

Employment

Services

Services

Help Wanted

Financial Services

Paving/Seal/ Coating

S.M. QUENNELL TRUCKING

is looking for LOG TRUCK drivers, based in

Cranbrook.

Full time work; home every night.

Excellent medical, dental, & pension benefits, Wages competitive with industry standards.

Fax resume and drivers abstract to:

fax:250-426-4610 or call: 250-426-6853 Sunshine Houseboats located on Lake Koocanusa is seeking positive & enthusiastic individuals or a couple for the position of Host/Campground Attendant of Gold Creek Bay campground from mid May to mid September 2015. Fax resume & cover letter to (250)489-2680

Teachers GPRC, FAIRVIEW Campus requires Heavy Equipment Technician Instructors to commence August 15, 2015. for more information visit our website: www.gprc.ab.ca/careers

Trades, Technical

GET BACK ON TRACK! Bad credit? Bills? Unemployed?

Need Money? We Lend! If you own your own home - you qualify. Pioneer Acceptance Corp. Member BBB. 1-877-987-1420 www.pioneerwest.com TAX FREE MONEY is available, if you are a homeowner, today! We can easily approve you by phone. 1st, 2nd or 3rd mortgage money is available right now. Rates start at Prime. Equity counts. We don’t rely on credit, age or income.

Call Anytime 1-800-639-2274 or 604-430-1498. Apply online www.capitaldirect.ca

Home Improvements FULL SERVICE Plumbing from Parker Dean. Fast, reliable, 24/7 service. Take $50 off your next job if you present this ad. Vancouver area. 1800-573-2928.

Household Services A-1 FURNACE & Air Duct Cleaning.

Complete Furnace/Air Duct Systems cleaned & sterilized. Locally owned & operated. 1-800-5650355 (Free estimates)

Trades, Technical

NOTICE

BLACKTOP NOW! Driveways & Parking Lots 1-888-670-0066

421-1482

FREE ESTIMATES!

Presently we are seeking applicants for the position of Log Scaler / Yard Supervisor.

Reporting to the Assistant Fibre Manager, you will play a key role in ensuring all loads delivered to the mill are scaled to both Company Standards and to all Provincial Regulations. You must hold a valid BC Scaling license with a minimum of 2 years scaling experience. In this role you will monitor the log quality program, ensuring the safety and efficiency of all log yard operations and maintenance of scale equipment.

Your experience includes: • Weighing log loads, preparing daily reports, and month end reports • Hand scaling sample loads as per company standards and provincial legislation • Creating and maintaining log yard decks and inventory records • Maintaining scale platform to within regulatory tolerances • Operate rubber tired and tracked log loaders • Supervising loader operators • A working knowledge of the SAFE companies program • Excellent communication skills • Ability to use various software packages is an asset

Rentals

Auctions

Misc. for Sale

Apt/Condo for Rent

Modular Homes

Scenic Downtown Elkford

Sparwood - Several Mobile Homes for rent $600 - $1000 per month.

Utilities not included.

Please contact

BC INSPECTED

GRADED AA OR BETTER LOCALLY GROWN NATURAL BEEF Hormone Free Grass Fed/Grain Finished Freezer Packages Available Quarters/Halves $4.90/lb Hanging Weight Extra Lean Ground Beef Available TARZWELL FARMS 250-428-4316 Creston

SAWMILLS FROM only $4,397. Make money and save money with your own bandmill.

Cut lumber any dimension. In stock ready to ship. Free Info and DVD: 1-800-566-6899 Ext: 400OT www.NorwoodSawmills.com/400OT

POWER PAVING

SERVING ALL THE KOOTENAYS

Spacious NEW apartments

Misc. Wanted

2 & 3 Bdrm- $850 (& up)- month

Private Collector Looking to Buy Coin Collections, Silver, Antique Native Art, Estates + Chad: 778-281-0030 in town.

250-428-2734

Rare opportunity to purchase private 150 acres 5 minutes from Cranbrook BC. Borders crown land on 3 sides.

Mixture of timber and fields.

Not in the ALR zoned RR60.

Serious inquiries only, $675,000.

250-489-9234

KWIK Auctions Commercial Food Equipment & Restaurant Auction House - Burnaby & Kelowna - Live & Online - visit KwikAuctions.com for Catalog, Pics, Video Preview

Home Improvements

A-CHEAP, LOWEST PRICES STEEL SHIPPING Dry Storage Containers Used 20’40’45’53’ and insulated containers all sizes in stock. 40’ containers as low as $2,200.

Also JD 544 & 644 wheel Loaders & 20,000 lb CAT forklift. Ph Toll free 24 hours 1866-528-7108 1-778-298-3192 8am-5pm. Delivery BC and AB www.rtccontainer.com

Home Improvements

Apt/Condo for Rent Sparwood, B.C.

PINEWAY COURT Apartment Units

“Retractable screen doors cool your home naturally while keeping the bugs out.” www.miragescreensystems.com

r $MPTF UP EPXOUPXO r "GGPSEBCMF r )PU XBUFS JODMVEFE r :PVS OFX IPNF 1 Bdrm plus den $775 (& up) month

1-800-860-3136 Serving the entire Elk Valley Free Estimates | Professional Installations www.nufloorsfernie.ca | info@nufloorsfernie.ca

Apt/Condo for Rent

Apt/Condo for Rent

Apartments for Rent 1 & 2 Bedroom Units Furnished & Unfurnished From

695 per month

$

2 Bdrm plus den $850 (& up) month

250-425-9912 Live in scenic & peaceful Elkford

ALDERWOOD PLACE Comfortable apartment units

1 Bdrm - $775 (& up)-month 2 & 3 Bdrm - $850 (& up)-month

1422 & 1462 – 6th Avenue, Fernie

To apply for this position, please Email your CV to: jo-anne.shea@celgar.com

For more information call

Located behind the Best Western

250-423-1358

Includes heat, lights, & hot water

250-865-2722 SPARWOOD, B.C. 2VJFU t $PNGPSUBCMF t "GGPSEBCMF

www.sutcliffefarms.com sutcliffefarms@gmail.com

Classifieds Get Results!

1 Bdrm - $775 (& up)-month

Rentals Acreage

Heavy Duty Machinery

ALPINE COURT

STEEL BUILDINGS “Spring sales with hot savings!” All steel building models and sizes are now on sale. Get your building deal while it’s hot. Pioneer Steel 1-800-668-5422 www.pioneersteel.ca

FRESH ASPARAGUS NOW AVAILABLE Sutcliffe Farms Creston, BC Place your order to ensure availability NEW and ONLY pick-up location 1252 Indian Road (off Lower Wynndel Rd)

Zellstoff Celgar is just minutes from Castlegar, BC in the West Kootenay region.

(Apologies in advance; only those considered for an interview will be contacted)

Dryer in excellent condition asking $100.

Call 250-423-3598 or 250-423-1224

Fruit & Vegetables

CALL NOW!

Auctions

Zellstoff Celgar operates a World Class1,500 tonne/day modern bleach kraft pulp mill located in Southeastern BC. This market kraft operation is committed to being its customers preferred supplier of customized pulp while maintaining its responsible position within the community.

Merchandise for Sale

Food Products

NO JOB TOO SMALL

CALL

Merchandise for Sale ONSITE AUCTION - MAY 7, 2015 All Assets - Formerly Akari Japanese Restaurant 112 - 3000 Lougheed Hwy, Coquitlam, BC Complete Cooking Line, Sushi Cases, High End Furnishings & More!!!!.....View all lots ONLINE, Register to Bid & Bid via Live Broadcast. Visit www.activeauctionmart.com or call 604-371-1190 buyit@activeauctionmart.com

Merchandise for Sale Working together to be the best for our communities, our environment…our future!

21

Includes: covered parking, sauna, heat, lights & hot water

1-250-865-7676

GOLDEN OAK GARDENS 1 Bdrm - $775 (& up)- month 2 Bdrm - $850 (& up)- month

Hot Water Included

Walking Distance to Mall

250-865-2722 2 Bed, 1 Bath condo for rent in Sparwood Heights. $900 per month, utilities not included.

Call Erin at 250-425-7711 or Rick at 250-425-5432 2 bedroom, 1 bath fully furnished condo for rent in Sparwood Heights. Just bring your clothes. $1150. per month Call Rick at 250-425-5432 or Erin At 250-425-7711 For Rent: 2 Condos turned into one very large, clean 2 bedroom, 2 bath fully furnished condo for rent in Sparwood Heights. This unit has everything you need including Jacuzzi tub, dishes, bedding.

Just bring your clothes.. $1200 per month.

Call Rick at 250-425-5432 or Erin at 250-425-7711 New condos in Sparwood Heights 2 bed/2 bath units are $1100. per month. 2 bed/1 bath units $1050. per month.

These units are in a new complex. New stainless steel appliances, granite counters, in suite washer/dryer. Building comes with an elevator and on site storage unit. No smoking or pets allowed. References required. (Utilities not included) Call Rick at 250-425-5432 or Erin at 250-425-7711 PineCrest Apartments Sparwood BC 1 & 2 bedroom apartments newly renovated, furnished and unfurnished available immediately starting at $800/month Contact Manager - 778-518-2253 or view at www.glprentals.com

Sparwood 1 bdrm condo, @ Mtn. Air Chalets - furn or not inc util, w/deck, no pets, $700 + DD Call 403-616-6467 or 403-474-3926.

Unit 4 Rent - Baynes Lake

Seniors Subsidized Housing 55+

New building beautiful views, In unit Laundry.

Call 250-531-0025 or

email:southcountryhousing@gmail.com

Career Resources.

Just one of the reasons to like LocalWorkBC.ca on Facebook.

/localwork-bc

@localworkbc

Modular Homes 14’ wide Mobile Home for Rent 3 bedrooms, all appliances Call Joe at 250-425-5387 Located in Coleman - Newer 3 bedroom 2 bath mobile home on its own lot - $900 per month utilities not included.

Call Erin at 250-425-7711 or Rick at 250-425-5432 or email assistant@sparwoodrealestate.ca

Rentals

assistant@sparwoodrealestate.ca

or call 250-425-7711 for more information.

Homes for Rent Furnished and Unfurnished Properties for rent in Sparwood and Elkford Contact Tammie Davy with Custom Real Estate and Property Management at 250-425-2968 or log on to www.elkvalleylistings.ca for more information.

Sparwood 2 houses for rent 3 bedroom with full basement $650 & $800 p/m plus utilities.

Available April. 1 Call Erin @ 250-425-7711 or Rick @ 250-425-5432

assistant@sparwoodrealestate.ca

SPARWOOD, 2-storey, 3bdrm townhouse for rent w/full basement, close to school & rec centre. (250)425-4448 primeprop@mymts.net Sparwood and Elkford: Property Management Services **************************** Furnished & Unfurnished houses and condos available Call Tonda at 250-433-7024 tonda@sparwoodrealestate.ca

Seasonal Accommodation

For rent: 2 RV Moyie River front lots, fully serviced, side by side, 100x40, at 3 Valley Resort in Yahk, BC, $1000/year each including services. Email for more info: green_thumb_lina@hotmail.com

Storage SELF STORAGE: Personal & commercial. Call Finnigan’s Storage.

250-423-3308 or 250-423-1236

Townhouses

27 Juniper - 3 bedroom townhouse with fenced backyard.

Close to Rec Centre, park and schools. $850. per month plus utilities. Call Rick at 250-4255432 or Erin at 250-425-7711 assistant@sparwoodrealestate.ca

Very nicely furnished newer 1 bedroom, 1 bathroom apartment in Sparwood. $700 p/m including utilities Call Rick at 250-425-5432 or Erin at 250-425-7711

assistant@sparwoodrealestate.ca

Transportation

Beaters under $1000

1993 Toyota Corolla FOR PARTS,

has some rust, only starts once in a while, 165,400 km, blue color, GAS PEDAL IS ON THE LEFT SIDE, asking $500 obo.

Located In Cranbrook Please call (250)919-7797

Boats World’s Finest FISHING BOATS

Weldcraft, Hewescraft, Lund, Godfrey Pontoons Mark’s Marine, Hayden, ID 1-888-821-2200 www.marksmarineinc.com

22

www.thefreepress.ca

THE FREE PRESS Thursday, May 7, 2015

Your Best Choice for Great Hong Kong Style Cuisine!

Brought to you by Fernie’s premiere Chinese restaurant

250-423-3211

YOUR HOROSCOPE for the week of May 10 to 16, 2015

THE LUCKIEST SIGNS THIS WEEK: GEMINI, CANCER AND LEO

ARIES (March 21 - April 19)

You may need to get some rest in order to stay healthy. Be sure to relax before starting anything new. You must organize your time more efficiently.

TAURUS (April 20 - May 20)

wifi available

1221A 7th Ave., Hwy. 3 Fernie • Beside ReMax

BRAIN GAMES ACROSS

1. Shed tears 5. Deeds 9. Use a wok 12. A wheel spins on PUZZLE NO. 760 this 13. Halt!

14. Fib 15. Seating section 16. Brightly colored beetles 18. Resound 20. Just fair 21. “____ So Fine” 22. Summer refreshment 24. Louts 28. Dull person 30. Hit 31. Come forth 35. Restaurant 37. Volcano’s overflow 38. Glance at 40. Worry 41. Frequently, to Keats 42. Spoiled 45. Slippery 48. Stock unit 50. Couric’s office 54. Shade sources 55. Amaze Copyright © 2015, Penny Press 56. Female singer

CROSSWORDS

You expand your network of contacts as well as your social circle. You’re in charge of an event that brings together lots of people, in either a professional or social context.

GEMINI (May 21 - June 21)

You manage to set a major project in motion, at work as well as at home. You may possibly find the money to purchase a property.

CANCER (June 22 - July 22)

You plan a big trip for your next vacation.

You may also take advantage of the summer to register for a course that will really help you get ahead in your career.

LEO (July 23 - August 22)

You’re a very sensitive person at times and it doesn’t take much for you to change everything around you. You may even decide to move on the spur of the moment.

VIRGO (August 23 - September 22)

57. Smell strongly 58. Gosh!

59. Large number 60. Chances

DOWN

1. Look at 2. Deport 3. Entreaties 4. Gull-like bird 5. Punching tool 6. Follower 7. Commotion 8. States 9. Winter ill 10. Fit out 11. Affirmative word 17. Helping hand 19. Crowd 23. Below-average grades 25. Beer’s kin

26. Distant 27. Agent 007, e.g.

29. Fall on ____ ears 31. Santa’s worker 32. Dent 33. Eden dweller 34. Evaluates 36. Hill insects 39. Wolflike animal 42. Made hay blocks 43. Bearing weapons 44. Classroom furniture 46. Well-known periods 47. Lounge around 49. Sub sandwich 50. Bother 51. Pasture mom 52. Like Willie Winkie 53. Tend the lawn

ANSWER/LAST WEEK - PUZZLE NO. 759

You may have to intervene to resolve a conflict either at work or in your social circle. Your presence and personality help you find some concrete solutions.

LIBRA (September 23 - October 22)

You have lots of work to do with plenty of small details to settle. You may also start a fantastic diet before the summer, one that shows fast results.

SCORPIO (October 23 - November 21)

Allergy season is in full swing and you may feel some discomfort. Take the time to find a healthy diet for yourself and you’ll see the symptoms diminish.

SAGITTARIUS (November 22 - December 21)

A birth or a major move is announced within the family. You seriously consider the option of selling your home if you now have an empty nest.

CAPRICORN (December 22 - January 19)

If you’ve witnessed some kind of injustice, you have a lot to say about it. You won’t be shy in shouting about it from the rooftops and trying to correct the situation.

AQUARIUS (January 20 - February 18)

You let yourself be influenced by friends to go shopping or splurge on some kind of treatment, which will significantly improve your health.

PUZZLE NO. 496

HOW TO PLAY : Fill in the grid so that every row, every column, and every 3x3 box contains the numbers 1 through 9 only once.

Answers:

Each 3x3 box is outlined with a darker line. You already have a few numbers to get you started.

Remember: You must not repeat the numbers 1 through 9 in the same line, column, or 3x3 box.

PISCES (February 19 - March 20)

You’re sure to get involved in some kind of long-term project. You’re able to assemble a good team to support you in a personal or professional way.

FOR ADVERTISING CONTACT SARA MOULTON advertising@thefreepress.ca 250-423-4666

www.thefreepress.ca

THE FREE PRESS Thursday, May 7, 2015

23

Shop wisely to start the season right

N

ow’s the time to make some smart choices that will boost your season on the fairways. Whether you’re an experienced golfer or just a beginner, this is the time to assess what you need in the way of equipment and to plan your golf games according to your budget.

First of all, it’s important to get some good advice if you’re a newcomer to this sport. Qualified personnel in specialized stores will be able to guide you in your choices. Initially, it isn’t always necessary to invest in a complete set of clubs, as you won’t use them all anyway. It’s also possible to rent equipment so you can see what works best for you.

There’s also lots of choice as far as golf bags are concerned. A lighter bag is the best bet for players who carry their own. Other models are designed to be set on a cart that has two, three or four wheels.

When choosing shoes, the important criteria are comfort, traction and waterproofing. Don’t skimp; it’s worth paying a few extra dollars for good quality shoes.

Expensive, high performance balls are a waste of money for new players. Mid-quality balls are less costly and therefore more economical for newbies.

To complete your starter setup, select a few wellchosen accessories such as a glove, tees, a fork to repair pitch marks on greens, umbrella and hand towel.

When shopping for clothes, be sure to choose items that meet golf club dress codes. Now all you have to do is to decide if you want to purchase a membership to a particular club or if you prefer to play on different courses, depending on your availability and your budget. Have a great season!

It’s important to choose the right equipment for your playing level, your needs and your budget.

Learning golf at school T

he popularity of golf as a sport is beginning to be reflected in schools across the country. Thanks to sportstudy programs offered in many schools and private colleges, young people can combine academics with training in their favourite sport.

Following the example of other sporting disciplines, special golfing programs offer a school schedule which includes a time slot for training sessions. Normally, students will study academic subjects during the morning and practice their sport in the afternoon. During different classes, students learn the techniques of driving, game strategies, psychological aspects of the game, golfing etiquette, equipment and nutrition.

Physical fitness is also an important part of the program. During the first two months of the

school calendar, outdoor training sessions on a golf course allow students to put into practice the techniques they have learned. They can also evaluate their skills and their competitive instincts by participating in school tournaments.

During the winter, training continues in a gymnasium or in an indoor golf training centre.

Students can also continue to develop their abilities by using specialized equipment. It is also a time of year when the development of good physical fitness is essential. Body-building and cardio sessions help prepare young golfers for a good start once spring arrives.

And, the moment the nice weather arrives, the students will be happy to return to the golf course for the last few months of the program.

201 Fairway Drive, Fernie - 250-423-7773 Ranked #2 Public Golf Facility in British Columbia

360 Card Program

Discounted rates!

Earn points towards free golf!

Call for details.

Pro-Shop, Restaurant, Range and 9 Holes Now Open

24

www.thefreepress.ca

THE FREE PRESS Thursday, May 7, 2015

UP TO $2,500 REBATE

when you recycle your current 2008 or older vehicle and purchase or lease an eligible new Ford!*

FERNIE FORD...

YOUR PRESIDENTS AWARD WINNER

IF THE LEGACY MARKDOWN ISN’T ON IT ... YOU PROBABLY PAID TOO MUCH!

2014 FORD FOCUS TITANIUM HATCHBACK / STK NC0184

$31,564 $26,318 OR $197 BW 84 MONTHS

2015 FORD FUSION TITANIUM AWD / STK NC0187

MSRP

SALE

$40,699 $38,997 OR $302 BW 84 MONTHS

2015 FORD F150 SUPERCREW XLT / STK NT1470

$50,239 SALE $46,850 OR $348 BW 84 MONTHS

$48,419 $41,114 OR $305 BW 84 MONTHS

STK NT1476

/

MSRP

SALE

2015 FORD EDGE TITANIUM AWD

/

2015 FORD TAURUS SEL AWD

MSRP

MSRP SALE

$43,949 OR $312 BW 84 MONTHS

2015 FORD F350 SUPERDUTY DIESEL / STK NT1427

MSRP

SALE

$41,949

STK NC0188

MSRP SALE

$52,718

$65,649 OR $395 BW 84 MONTHS

FERNIE PRE-OWNED 2009 FORD RANGER

2013 FORD FIESTA

/

SALE

Only 22,000 kms $14,900 OR $129 BW 72 MONTHS 2010 CHEVY SILVERADO

/

SALE

/

STK UC0248

STK UT0704

Rare long box $15,900 OR $162 BW 60 MOTHS

Rare standard transmission $14,990 OR $152 BW 60 MONTHS

SALE

2010 JEEP WRANGLER SAHARA

/

SALE

2008 PONTIAC TORRENT

/

STK UT0703

STK UT0708

Removable hard top $23,995 OR $240 BW 60 MONTHS

SALE

$15,995

STK UT0707

AWD OR $163 BW 60 MONTHS

2011 FORD F150 SUPERCREW

/

SALE

STK LT0004

Only 66,000 kms $27,499 OR $234 BW 72 MONTHS

All payments at 4.99% interest $0 down calculated on all payments OAC. Example Nc0184 total interest paid for 84 months would be $5,668.72 .

Total payments would be $35,854. $499 documentation fees calculated on all payments. *Conditions apply. See the team at Fernie Ford for more details.

Visit our new Brenner Road location

NOW OPEN!

New extended hours to serve you better.

Monday - Thursday till 7 pm Friday till 6 pm And Saturday till 5 pm

Associated with Legacy Auto Group

250-423-9211

www.fernieford.ca

Mining WEEK

May 3 - May 9, 2015

Teck Photos

141A Aspen, Sparwood, BC V0B 2G0 (250) 425-2423 http://sparwoodchamber.bc.ca/

We thank Teck Coal and the various companies associated with the Elk Valley mining industry for their ongoing support of the Sparwood Chamber of Commerce and our local business community.

Mining Week luncheon Friday, May 8

with keynote speaker the Hon. Bill Bennett, MLA, Minister of Energy and Mines

B2

Mining Week ~ May 3 to 9

THE FREE PRESS, Thursday, May 7, 2015

Celebrating Mining Week

The importance of mining to Canada’s economy

F

irst celebrated in 1996, National Mining Week recognizes the importance of the Canadian mining industry to the economic development of Canada.

It is a chance to celebrate the important role that mining plays in the lives of Canadians. It is hard to imagine a life without minerals and metals — every day, we all use and rely on products made from them.

Mining takes place in almost every province and territory in Canada — creating jobs and business opportunities, and supporting industries and workers from rural, remote and Aboriginal communities to our large urban centres.

British Columbia’s mining and mineral exploration industry

has a rich history and a promising future. B.C. has been one of the world’s major mining regions since the mid1800s and to this day is a key international player.

It is a chance to celebrate the important role that mining plays in the lives of Canadians.

Encompassing the largest part of the Canadian Cordillera, a mountain belt rich in minerals and coal, B.C. produces and exports a significant amount of copper, gold, silver, lead, zinc, molybdenum, coal and industrial minerals

every year.

Historically, B.C.’s vast mineral resources have contributed extensively to the province’s growth and development.

The Hudson’s Bay Company first started producing coal on Vancouver Island in the 1840s, and the discovery of gold along the Fraser River in the 1850s sparked a major gold rush, which was ultimately responsible for the settlement of many parts of that region.

As B.C.’s population increased, the provincial infrastructure improved, and miners were able to explore more and more of the province’s terrain, leading to many new mineral deposit discoveries.

Throughout the century following

Teck photo

the Fraser River Gold Rush, most mining activities in British Columbia took place underground. But in

the early 1960s, the feasibility of open-pit production increased tremendously, and as a result, several huge

REBUILD IT RIGHT! EXTEND THE LIFE OF YOUR MINING EQUIPMENT WITH FINNING’S MACHINE REBUILD PROGRAMS. PERFORMANCE ANALYSIS COMPONENT REPAIRS OR REPLACEMENTS MACHINE OVERHAULS CERTIFIED REBUILDS

Finning Sparwood | 250-425-6282

copper mines opened, including Highland Valley Copper— the largest open-pit operation in all of

North America, and, of course, the coal mines here in the Elk Valley.

THE FREE PRESS, Thursday, May 7, 2015 B3

Mining Week ~ May 3 to 9

We are proud to support and serve the mining industry and the Elk Valley!

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B4

Mining Week ~ May 3 to 9

THE FREE PRESS, Thursday, May 7, 2015

Mining industry executives SHAW’S take pies in the face in ENTERPRISES LTD. support of sick kids in B.C. Proudly supplying our local area mines

From the staff and management at

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Each year, the B.C. Mining industry’s Mining for Miracles campaign hosts a series of fundraising events in aid of BC Children’s Hospital, including the Teck Celebrity Pie Throw. This year’s event will take place on May 7, 2015 in Vancouver and the Elk Valley’s Robin Sheremeta is hoping to raise enough donations to avoid a pie in the face.

Photo courtesy of Mining for Miracles Submitted

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he Teck Celebrity Pie Throw is an annual Mining for Miracles event in support of BC Children’s Hospital Foundation taking place on May 7, 2015 at the Vancouver Art Gallery. At the event, participants toss the world’s most expensive cream pies in the faces of mining industry leaders, all in support of B.C.’s sick and injured children.

This year Teck’s Robin Sheremeta, Vice President, Coal Operations from the Sparwood office is competing in the pie throw. Robin will be joined by other mining industry executives from companies across B.C. volunteering to take a pie in the face while asking friends, family and colleagues to pledge their support.

The goal is to raise $600,000 at the pie throw to support the development of the new BC Children’s Hospital CAUSES Clinic. For parents, nothing is worse than having a sick child and not knowing what is wrong. But sadly every year hundreds of children arrive at BC Children’s

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Hospital with “mystery illnesses”. The CAUSES Clinic will provide advanced diagnostic DNA testing to support the accurate and efficient diagnosis of rare genetic diseases in children who would otherwise require numerous tests or might not be diagnosed at all.

One test in the CAUSES Clinic will scan for over 7,000 genetic disorders, provide quick and conclusive diagnosis in 50 per cent – 70 per cent of cases, prevent unnecessary tests, and save time, money and children’s lives.

Premier Christy Clark joined B.C. mining industry representatives earlier this year to launch this new fundraising initiative.

"B.C.’s mining industry has raised more than $23 million for BC Children's Hospital through this campaign,” said Premier Clark. “Mining for Miracles is a clear example of how our resource sector benefits communities right across British Columbia."

Visit www.miningformiracles.ca for more information and to donate.

Member of the MSCCA

THE FREE PRESS, Thursday, May 7, 2015 B5

Mining Week ~ May 3 to 9

More women in skilled trades is a win-win

By Marcia Smith Senior Vice President, Sustainability and External Affairs, Teck

“...low-income women in Canada face a larger wage gap with their male counterparts than low-income women in most other OECD countries.

Getting more women into skilled trades positions can be part of the solution to changing this equation.”

M

uch has been written, and much discussion has followed, about the need to increase the number of women on boards of directors and at senior levels of management in Canadian companies.

While this is an important topic, another opportunity related to women in the workplace has received far less attention, yet has the power to truly change women’s lives for the better—lots of women’s lives.

That opportunity is increasing the number of women employed in the skilled trades.

At a time when skilled trades— defined broadly as an occupation that requires specialized skills and knowledge, and apprenticeship training and certification—are more in demand than ever, we have the opportunity to help women substantially improve their standard of living.

While women are fairly well-represented in a few servicesector trades—florists and hair stylists, for example— they are seriously underrepresented in trades such as electricians, heavy duty mechanics, welders and millwrights, to name a few. The gender mix in skilled trades continues to be highly unbalanced.

In fact, men accounted for 93.4% of all trades workers in 2011, with this proportion not having changed materially over the past two decades.

When you marry this with the fact that Canada’s labour market already suffers from an acute shortage of skilled workers—a recent report by CIBC suggested as much as one-fifth of the labour market does not have enough qualified workers— we have a significant opportunity to increase women’s participation in trades and, by extension, their

Marcia Smith, who worked in 2013 as General Manager of Teck’s Line Creek Operations in Sparwood, is promoting the need to increase the number of women working in skilled trades in Canada.

Submitted photo

wages. In the sector I work in, mining, it is expected that we will need to find 81,000 new workers over the next decade as many in the industry head towards retirement.

Considering that the average salary and benefits for someone working in B.C.’s mining industry in 2013 was $114,600, one wonders why more women are not pursuing these jobs.

Particularly when you

compare, for example, an electrician’s average hourly wage of $34 to that of a florist, whose typical hourly wage is approximately $14.

While women’s overall participation in the work force has increased dramatically over the past number of years, they continue to face low-income conditions. In fact, low-income women in Canada face a larger wage gap with their male counterparts

in skilled trades.

Industry, labour and governments have an important role to play in this. The second is that we start having the discussion about getting women into skilled trades much more broadly. It needs more attention on the national policy discussion stage.

Parents need to see a future of possibilities for their daughters that includes jobs such as carpenters, electricians and industrial mechanics.

Our educators and career counsellors need to promote these jobs as viable career options for women.

I have had the

privilege of meeting skilled trades women working in our company and I’ve asked about the barriers to entering these roles. There are not many that they cite, other than a general lack of awareness about the

opportunities and a lack of role models.

The women in these jobs may be small in number today, but they are powerful in the message they send to others. They can become the role models for other women coming behind them and when more girls in high schools can see themselves in a skilled trade, we will see participation rates increase and women will reap the benefits these careers offer.

This article first appeared in The Globe and Mail on July 15, 2014.

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than low-income women in most other Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) countries.

Getting more women into skilled trades positions can be part of the solution to changing this equation.

I have two suggestions for how we can make progress.

The first is that we put formal targets in place for women

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B6

Mining Week ~ May 3 to 9

THE FREE PRESS, Thursday, May 7, 2015

Crows Nest Pass Coal Company Archives Hidden Treasure

Antique keys for desks, doors, cabinets ad infinitum.

Display of old style calculators, mineral collection and an oak stereoscope (for viewing air photos).

By John Kinnear

“There are dozens of framed pictures hanging from the cantilevered perimeter of the room depicting past officers of the company, mining scenes and an imposing classic portrait of William Fernie.

Below the pictures on oak filing and storage cabinets lie dozens of intriguing artifacts that speak to the wide variety of devices required to run and maintain an active coal mine in the early twentieth century.”

Panorama of San Francisco 1906 fire- 500 blocks destroyed.

O

n another of the oak desks in the archive one can find a collection of old style calculating machines, one of which is a Marchant Figurematic, an ancient calculator I had occasion to use in the early 1970’s. It has several hundred individual gears within it and I used a similar one for calculating field surveys using nine decimal place logarithmic and tangent tables. I swear this machine lied to me a few times and I was convinced that that many gears can’t possibly turn perfectly every time.

There are dozens of framed

pictures hanging from the cantilevered perimeter of the room depicting past officers of the company, mining scenes and an imposing classic portrait of William Fernie. Perhaps the most unusual picture in the hanging collection is a special panoramic view of the aftermath of the 1906 San Francisco earthquake and fire. How and why this picture came to be in the archives is another of the collection’s many mysteries. Below the pictures on oak filing and storage cabinets lie dozens of intriguing artifacts that speak to the wide variety of devices required to run and maintain an active coal mine in the early twentieth century.

They represent a cross section through the company’s complex history and include things like a massive diamond drill bit, a cast iron underground mine phone, dozens of fossils and mineral samples, compasses, several unique tripods, old style drafting equipment, stacks of cancelled stock certificates and several brass nameplates that once graced the front of the main office.

At one time the coal company

ran several separate corporate entities like the Morrissey, Fernie and Michel Railway, the Crows Nest Pass Electric Light and Power Company and Crowsnest Industries Ltd., which was a later renaming of the original coal company and included its logging and oil and gas arms.

One cannot operate for this long period of time without accumulating a significant number of keys, and the archives collection is fascinating to study for its variety and unusual shapes.

It seems that when I first began working with and displaying this part of the collection I discovered, at home, a key that looked like it belonged to this unusual collection and so, assuming I had misplaced it, added it to the archive pile. I finally figured out it was the unusually shaped key to my safety deposit box which had remained locked for my 25 years in Fernie as I could not locate the key and was loathe to pay a locksmith to open what turned out to be an empty box in 2005!

Continued on page C7

Photos by John Kinnear

THE FREE PRESS, Thursday, May 7, 2015 B7

Mining Week ~ May 3 to 9

Crows Nest Pass Coal Company Archives Hidden Treasure cont’d

Dominion of Canada $4 dollar note.

Continued from page C6

The cornerstone of the Crows Nest Pass Coal Company office can be found in the building’s southeast corner. Behind the 1600 pound block of Morrissey limestone, dated 1905, there was placed at that time a time capsule. It was a small tin box (4 inches by 5 inches by 8 inches) that contained a variety of important commemorative artifacts including a January 12, 1899 copy of the Fernie Free Press (Vol. 1 No. 1) and a selection of coins and dollar bills of that era. Unfortunately time and the seepage of water into this supposedly secure area had a devastating effect on the box.

On revealing the contents for Fernie’s centennial in 2004 it was discovered that most of the capsule’s contents were badly damaged and the oxidized box was now nothing but a few rusted pieces of metal. Amongst the capsule’s remains, now stored in the archives, was a $4 bill dated July 2, 1900. They are a uniquely Canadian denomination first issued in 1882 to convert pounds and shillings and have images

of Lord and Lady Minto and the Sault Ste. Marie boat lock on the front. The inventory of the time capsule was well documented over a hundred years ago and the release of what should have been some rather rare documents and coins proved to be a dramatic let down for the centennial celebrations.

The artifacts connected to the archives room do not represent the whole company story as there are three bank vaults in the building that were at one time used for additional storage.

The basement vault and the room leading into it are still significant archive areas where one can find, yet again, pieces of the CNPCC puzzle. The room leading into the basement vault contains hundreds of studies and reference texts including area geology and mining studies, old building codes, statistical reviews, corporate law and books covering just about every area that an all encompassing coal company like the CNPCC needed to be versed in. On an opposite wall to these studies there are dozens of Statutes of Canada texts that date back from prior to 1920 to 1961

Reference material on any topic imaginable.

and 26 beautifully leather bound Statutes of British Columbia that date from the late 1880’s on. It is understandable for a company to conduct its business back then that they be well versed in all aspects of federal and provincial government law.

As an aside I was somewhat surprised to find correspondence in the archives from none other than J. Edgar Hoover to the coal company about how to deal with security issues but as I said this company used every resource available to it to ensure its survivability and success within the community.

Moving through this reference library one finds the basement bank-type vault in which most of the Glenbow transferred company records had existed and where their irreplaceable drafting records were kept.

Racks of drawings, many of which were done on coated Irish linen, rest in horizontal bins along one wall. Up high above

them are detailed mine plans, drafted on a type of canvas, on which were recorded the oh-soimportant mine development surveys. Canvas is a very stable drafting material and was less likely to expand and contract with temperature. Minimizing small plotting cumulative errors for the surveyor/draftsman was important.

Several mine disasters have occurred because of inaccurate mine plans, including the 1969 flood at Balmer South. The company was required to submit, as part of any fatality inquiry, a detailed plan of an accident.

There are several sobering drawings in this collection that include one for the May 22, 1902 explosion that shows where 130 miners died in Coal Creek and also a detailed blueprint for the Balmer North 1967 blast that took 15 lives.

With regards to disasters the center table in the archives room has seven 14 inch by

22 inch ledger books that are a remarkable compilation of accidents diligently kept over five decades by the company.

The ledgers were printed with columns specifically laid out for this purpose and detail everything from occupation, nationality, location, nature of injury, cause of accident and so on. Probably the most disturbing column in each two-page spread is the one labeled: “Fatal or NonFatal”.

Just about any area of these archives could provide a researcher with enough material for a thesis and the resource is one that needs to be further enhanced and perhaps made available to the public somehow. It is the legacy of the mining history of the principle mining company that explored and developed the huge deposits of the Crowsnest and Elk Valley coal fields for 70 years.

“Unfortunately time and the seepage of water into this supposedly secure area had a devastating effect on the box. On revealing the contents for Fernie’s centennial in 2004 it was discovered that most of the capsule’s contents were badly damaged and the oxidized box was now nothing but a few rusted pieces of metal.

The inventory of the time capsule was well documented over a hundred years ago and the release of what should have been some rather rare documents and coins proved to be a dramatic let down for the centennial celebrations.”

A snapshot of the thousands of injury entries.

Photos by John Kinnear

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Mining Week ~ May 3 to 9

THE FREE PRESS, Thursday, May 7, 2015

The Coal Alliance

By Katelyn Dingman Free Press Staff

T

he Coal Alliance was established three years ago to bring together representatives from the coal industry who work to fight back against some of the opposition the coal industry faces.

Having a prominent

role here in the Elk Valley, the Coal Alliance works with organizations like Teck and Canadian Pacific (CP) railways to ensure that the proper information is being distributed across the country.

The Coal Alliance partners with mining organizations in order

to provide accurate, detailed information about the coal industry, the product they are producing and how the production of coal is necessary for the B.C. economy.

Feeling as though the voices of the coal industry employees were being drowned out by the opposition,

the Coal Alliance worked on creating a website where those individual voices could be heard. The website workingwithcoal.ca allows the public to hear from the men and women working in the industry, including safety representatives, United Steelworkers Union (USW)

Feeling as though the voices of the coal industry employees were being drowned out by the opposition, the Coal Alliance worked on creating a website where those individual voices could be heard.

When Seconds 94th Count Come out and show your support for the

Annual East Kootenay Zone, Mine Rescue and First Aid Competition

E.K.M.I.S.A.

representatives, project managers and municipal government officials. Through a variety of short films, individuals can get a better understanding of the importance of the coal industry and how the industry, that creates over 26,000 well-paying jobs in mining, transportation, equipment and many other sectors, has helped them.

Former Sparwood Mayor Lois Halko is featured in one of the videos highlighting the importance mining has on the District of Sparwood and the Elk Valley as a whole.

Noting that the mining industry employs 4,000 people throughout the Elk Valley, Halko said that mining is the foundation of Sparwood’s local economy.

Halko also highlighted the average yearly earnings in Sparwood, stating that in 2010 the average family income was over $90,000, which is more than

$15,000 above B.C.’s average family income.

Allen Fryer, spokesperson for the Coal Alliance said that a lot of people who oppose the coal industry, specifically those in the lower mainland don’t understand that B.C.’s economy is based on coal as a resource.

He referred to ‘fear mongering’ as being a main source of opposition to the coal industry, noting that health concerns are often exposed with no data to back up certain claims.

The Coal Alliance, however, works to bring data forward to communities through community outreach programs. By speaking to Fernie, Cranbrook and Sparwood council over the next month, Fryer hopes to encourage communities that depend on coal to pass resolutions that support the industry.

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Have some fun cheering on all the teams and learn about this unique event.

Team Head to Head Grand Finale - New in 2015 Everyone welcome!

When: Saturday, May 9, 2015. 8 am - 2 pm Where: Elkford Arena Area, Michel Road, Elkford, BC Hosted by Teck Coal Ltd – Greenhills Operations

Free spectator BBQ hosted by SMS and Finning

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THE FREE PRESS, Thursday, May 7, 2015 B9

Mining Week ~ May 3 to 9

Couples in Mining The Free Press asked Elk Valley couples about the benefits – and challenges – of both working in the mining industry.

Jennifer Tailor: Accountant at Teck Daniel Tailor: Coordinator, Staff Recruitment at Teck From: Fernie

H

ow long have you been together?

Five years

Did you meet through work?

We both had corporate careers in Calgary with industry-leading companies in oil and gas, which led to meeting through mutual friends.

What are the benefits of the both of you working in mining?

Mining, specifically working with Teck, offers us both stability and diversity, and an opportunity to work and live in the Valley. There’s huge benefit of working for an organization that places real value on its people and our community, something we see in the office and at home.

On a practical level, we both get to travel to/from work every day with our children, whose daycare is adjacent to our office – quality time, spent together - a far cry from our daily commute across the city!

What are the challenges of both working in mining, and how do you overcome them?

We both love what we do which naturally leads to often taking “work” home - it’s still a work in progress but after three years, we’re getting a lot better at switching off work and turning on play.

Raising a young family creates the occasional logistical challenge but being on a “flexible” work schedule and having an understanding peer group allows us to proactively tackle these challenges as they arise.

What opportunities have your mining careers given you as a couple?

An opportunity to have fulfilling, progressive careers yet maintain an enviable work life balance – to live, work and play where people come to vacation? It’s a no-brainer and we both consider ourselves very lucky.

Daniel and Jennifer Tailor with their two children.

Submitted photo

Amy Mac Con: Superintendent Human Resources, Teck Elkview Operations Ronan Mac Con: Electrician at SMS equipment, Elkford From: Fernie

H

ow long have you been together?

20 years

How did you meet?

We met in University. We both shared the desire to move to the “best place on earth” for exactly that reason.

What are the benefits of both of you working in mining?

We both never imagined we would end up in mining but the opportunity came up and we both dove in. To work and play in this area is unprecedented.

What are the challenges of both working in mining, and how do you overcome them?

Modern families today in any industry face challenges raising a family. Two working parents are the rule more than the exception today and we have always found a way to make it work. It takes careful planning and compromise especially with no immediate family in the area and at times long days. You have to be creative and plan ahead. Ronan’s schedule allows him to be home with the kids often. We use the calendar and schedule ahead accordingly to make sure the bases are covered. In the early years we were involved in getting the Fernie Childcare Society off the ground. Today there are more options available to families including nannies and after school care. We recommend taking advantage of all available options.

Ronan and Amy Mac Con and their children.

Submitted photo

What opportunities have your mining careers given you as a couple?

The overwhelming opportunity our mining careers have given us is the ability to raise a family in an incredible community. Mining provides the means to enjoy the lifestyle this valley has to offer. Nowhere else in the world can you enjoy the career benefits of resource extraction and live in proximity to such a beautiful place.

Proud supporters of Mining in the Elk Valley

Come read about mining history at the Sparwood Public Library We are open: 10 am - 8 pm Tuesday and Thursday, 10 am - 5 pm Wednesday, Friday and Saturday.

12 noon - 4 pm Sunday.

We are closed Mondays and Statutory Holidays!

Fernie Mountain Lodge 1622 7 Ave, Fernie

250-423-5500

bestwesternfernie.com

For more information call 250-425-2299 or join us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/sparwoodlibrary

B10

Mining Community Elkford, BC Activity Book

THE FREE PRESS, Thursday, May 7, 2015

Mining Week ~ May 3 to 9

Name _____________

Proud to support the mining community!

Mining Games a n g i s De ! o n Di

A Dinosaur That Roamed the Elk Va

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Open 7 days a week

What will you name your dinosaur?

651 Douglas Fir Road Sparwood BC V0B 2G0 250-425-2077

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2 2200 Balmer Dr, Elkford, BC (250) 865-2327

MineralsEd is non-profit, non-partisan organization dedicated to encouraging geoscience, mining and mineral resources education in school. Our mission is to support BC teachers and their students with relevant, comprehensive earth science and mining educational resources and learning opportunities.

We are proud supporters of mining in the Elk Valleyis non-profit, non-partisan MineralsEd organization dedicated to encouraging www.MineralsEd.ca

geoscience, mining and mineral resources education in school. Our mission is to support Dinosaur’s N Overwaitea Foods Sparwood BC teachers and their students with relevant, comprehensive earth science andMining mining Community Elkford, BC __________ Activity Book educational resources and learning opportunities. proudly supports Mining Week

Thank you all for shopping local

250-425-6489 2-101 Red Cedar Dr., Sparwood

City Hall 501-3rd Ave., Box 190 Fernie, BC V0B 1M0 www.fernie.ca

Celebrating our mining heritage From the mayor, council and staff The City of Fernie

We recognize the support that the mines provide to our Elk Valley communities.

Story Scramble WordElkford Scramble

Name _________________

www.MineralsEd.ca

14

Unscramble the letters in the left column to make a word in the blanks on the right.

1. nemi 2. nimucomty 3. amp 4. drusonai 5. gleend 6. hosloc 7. danesnotes 8. gierneen 9. holevs 10. droflek 11. tointfrop 12. stoinmaun 13. elest 14. loac 15. sloifs 16. oplexre 17. tlanp 18. rifend 19. mailan 20. tytricleeci 21. menect 22. lafe 23. kroc 24. spawm 25. rayles 26. gikbin

__ __ __ __ __ __ __ __ __ __ __ __ __ __ __ __ __ __ __ __ __ __ __ __ __ __ __ __ __ __ __ __ __ __ __ __ __ __ __ __ __ __ __ __ __ __ __ __ __ __ __ __ __ __ __ __ __ __ __ __ __ __ __ __ __ __ __ __ __ __ __ __ __ __ __ __ __ __ __ __ __ __ __ __ __ __ __ __ __ __ __ __ __ __ __ __ __ __ __ __ __ __ __ __ __ __ __ __ __ __ __ __ __ __ __ __ __ __ __ __ __ __ __ __ __ __ __ __ __ __ __ __ __ __ __ __ __ __ __ __ __ __ __ __ __ __ __ __ __ __ __ __ __ __ __ __ __ __ __ __ __ __ __ __ __

Answers: 1. mine, 2. community, 3. map, 4. dinosaur, 5. legend, 6. school, 7. sandstone, 8. engineer, 9. shovel, 10. Elkford, 11. footprint,12. mountains, 13. steel, 14. coal, 15. fossil, 16. explore, 17. plant, 18. friend, 19. animal, 20. electricity, 21. cement, 22. leaf, 23. rock, 24. swamp, 25. layers, 26. biking

and our communities!

Elkford

9

THE FREE PRESS, Thursday, May 7, 2015 B11

Mining Week ~ May 3 to 9

Mine rescue teams to compete in Elkford

Teck photo

Submitted

T

he Elk Valley mining industry’s emergency responders will be on display next Saturday, May 9 at the 94th East Kootenay Zone Surface Mine Rescue and First Aid Competition.

The annual competition is hosted locally by the East Kootenay Mines Industrial Safety Association (EKMISA) and gives mine rescue teams the opportunity to be judged on how they would deal with five skill challenges – First Aid, Fire, Bench, Rope and an extrication – or ‘Other’ task.

All five of the Elk Valley’s mine operations will be taking part in the competition. Each year a different mine operation takes on the task of organizing the competition - this year it is Greenhills Operations and the competition is being hosted in Elkford at the Elkford Arena area on Michel Road.

The first and second place teams from the zone competition will go on to compete in the provincial competition in June in Smithers, B.C. and the B.C. champion will take part in the National Western Regional Mine Rescue biennial competition which will be held in Fernie in September 2015.

Local industries’ Occupational First Aid (OFA) teams will be competing as well as the up-andcoming Intermediate (16-19 yrs) and Junior (1215 yrs) First Aid teams. These teams compete in their own emergency event and showcase their first aid skills.

The competition day is a fun event for families - volunteer ‘victims’ and extreme make-up help to make the scenarios more realistic for the teams and spectators and there will be a free spectator barbecue sponsored by Finning and SMS.

Fabrication • Cranes • Repairs • Metal Buildings

We salute Teck Coal for their operations and continued community support

Did you know?

Salute to all the mines in the Elk Valley.

Mining Facts Direct jobs in the Elk Valley: 3500 Worksafe B.C. statistics show that the mining industry is the safest heavy industry in BC. Coal represents a third of the industrial traffic at the Port of Vancouver, the largest port in Canada.

Mining is one of the highest paid industrial sectors nationwide.

The coal stocks of southern British Columbia and Alberta are among the richest in Canada.

Major minerals produced in BC (as a % of Canada’s production): Coal (66%); Copper (40%); Silver (50%); Gold, Lead, Molybdenum & Zinc.

Canada is one of the worlds leading mining countries.

Advocating responsible exploration and mining practices, conservation standards and a future for our communities.

SPARWOOD • 250-425-7738

250-464-9559 • www.ekcm.org

B12

Mining Week ~ May 3 to 9

THE FREE PRESS, Thursday, May 7, 2015

Mine Rescue Competition 2014

Free Press file photos

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