PM# 40011867
- Your onlY locallY owned newspaper • serving the cnp since 1930 • JanuarY 15, 2020 ~ vol. 90 no. 2
New maps made for PPK
$1.00
Herald contributor photo
Robin Derkatz grew up in the Crowsnest Pass and has spent countless hours on the local ski hill. Using skills she acquired over her years at the Northern Alberta Institute of Technology in Edmonton, she created a new 2D image of the mountain for the Pass Powderkeg to use for maps. This season the PPK will be selling trail map postcards for $2 to raise funds towards replacing the four large exterior trail maps at the hill.
Looking Back Page 13
retiring Page 16
Minor Hockey Pages 8,9 & 10
2 – CrowsnesT PAss HerALD – Wednesday, January 15, 2020
Pass Community Pool Society
agm
Tuesday, January 27 6:00 p.m. Municipal Council Chambers 8502, 19th Ave., Coleman
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Thunder Hockey The Crowsnest Pass Thunder Pre-Novice played in Sparwood on January 12. These two teams are very well matched which makes for some great games to watch! Sparwood won the game. Crowsnest Pass was not far behind. Both teams played great! All the kids played amazing and had a ton of fun! Mikka Kufftinoff, Griffin Luini and Abbott Graham all scored goals. Abbott Graham scored his first goal of the season! Great game everybody! If you would like to come watch some great hockey and cheer on some great little hockey players, the CNP Thunder will be playing this following weekend in Sparwood as they host their home tournament. CNP plays both on January 18 and 19 January 18th: 8:00 AM & 3:45 PM January 19th: 8:00 AM
Crowsnest Pass Music Festival update MiChele piTT CNP Music Festival
The Crowsnest Pass Music Festival Committee is excited to welcome everyone to the 2020 festival, running March 9 – 13, 2020, followed by the Grand Concert on Friday, March 20, 2020. Since 1957, the festival has offered students in the Crowsnest Pass and neighbouring communities a chance to perform in front of a live audience and receive valuable feedback and encouragement from qualified adjudicators. It is also an opportunity for the community to enjoy fine musical performances and support young people in their music pursuits. This year, to adjudicate bowed strings and piano classes, we are pleased to welcome back
Crowsnest Pass native, Kirk Muspratt. Conductor Kirk Muspratt of Northwest Indiana Symphony Orchestra, New Philharmonic and DuPage Opera Theatre, has a dynamic perspective on how music touches the listener. In his theatre, anything is possible. Recently named a “Chicagoan of the Year” by music critic John von Rhein and the writing staff of the Chicago Tribune, Kirk Muspratt has made “concert-going an interactive experience that was both enlightening and…fun”. Appreciation begins with the young and he supports young artists by providing important performance opportunities through Young Peoples’ Competitions and “sideby-sides” with the symphony. Another program he instituted includes a popular Solo Competition for children that results in a child performing at almost every Northwest Indiana Symphony Concert. He enjoys visits to area schools. When school groups visit his auditorium for a performance, he takes time to offer a warm and instructional chat. We welcome Trevor Cooper to adjudicate our fretted strings and school band classes. The guitar has become a passport to Trevor Cooper and it travels with him wherever he goes. It has taken him from his upbringing in the cold western Canadian Prairies to the heat of southern Spain. Born and raised in Edmonton, he started playing guitar
This year, to adjudicate bowed strings and piano classes, we are pleased to welcome back Crowsnest Pass native, Kirk Muspratt. Conductor Kirk Muspratt of Northwest Indiana Symphony Orchestra, New Philharmonic and DuPage Opera Theatre. at a young age, studying locally with Michel Forestier. At 17 Trevor was accepted into the University of Toronto Faculty of Music Performance program. There he studied guitar with Dr. Jeffrey McFadden and Performance Practice with Dr. Kevin Komisaruk. During this time, he gained local success and won the Guitar Trophy at the 2012 Greater Toronto Kiwanis Music Festival. He received national recognition with 1st Place in Guitar at the 2013 FCMF National Music Festival in Waterloo. In 2018 he toured western Canada and Norway with Henry Reitan. He has performed recitals with the Guitar Societies of Edmonton, Calgary and Vancouver and has recently given masterclasses at Mount Royal University, the University of British Columbia, and Concordia University of Edmonton. To adjudicate vocal, musical theatre and choral speech classes, from Calgary, we welcome Karen Charlton. Adjudicator Bio: It has been my privilege to adjudicate 17 years of big city festivals, small town festivals and Provincials. I’m happy to use this bio space to commit to apply-
ing all my knowledge and experience to the best of my ability while adjudicating your performers – treating each individual with respect and kindness while providing constructive opinions and suggestions that are supported by practical, technical and artistic applications. Festivals are intended to encourage, grow and appreciate our performers. We can all strive for creating a festival environment that emboldens exciting performances as these artists strive for the highest level of their own personal achievements. I would also like to express my gratitude to all the volunteers that make this festival and its invaluable performing opportunities possible. I can’t wait to celebrate this year’s festival together! The Music Festival Committee is excited about the 2020 Festival and invite all music students to enter, regardless of instrument or style of music. Adults and families are also welcome and encouraged to register. For more information and to register online, please visit our website at www.crowsnestpassmusicfestival.com Registration Deadline is January 25, 2020.
Wednesday, January 15, 2020 - Crowsnest PAss herAlD - 3
In the lIne of fIre Between December 20 and January 13, Crowsnest Pass RCMP responded to a total of 133 calls for service including the following reported incidents. One (1) assault, five (5) break and enter (residential), one (1) break and enter (other), two (2) fraud/forgery, one (1) threat/harassment, one (1) mischief/vandalism, four (4) theft of a motor vehicle, six (6) thefts, three (3) impaired driving, one (1) disturbing the peace, four (4) other criminal codes, ten (10) other provincial statutes, nineteen (19) driving complaints, twenty-four (24) motor vehicle collisions, fourteen (14) assistance to general public, eight (8) suspicious occurrences, three (3) lost and found, thirteen (13) assistance to other agencies, seven (7) 911 calls (invalid), two (2) false alarms, three (3) animal calls, and one (1) municipal bylaw. Traffic Stops On December 21st, 2019, at approximately 9pm, there was a traffic stop in Coleman. A 42year-old male admitted to consuming alcohol. He provided two breath samples, which were both over the legal limit. He was charged with impaired driving and released on documents for Pincher Creek Court. His vehicle was also towed.
plaint of a possible break and enter of a residence in Lundbreck. Police attended and the doors of the residence were locked and all windows were closed. There did not appear to be entry to the residence. Break and Enter On December 24th, 2019, there was a complaint of possible break and enter of a residence in Coleman. The complainant heard a loud noise. Police attended and checked the residence. There was no evidence anyone had entered the residence and nothing appeared to be missing. Thefts On December 26th, 2019, there was a complaint of theft of a wallet from a parked vehicle on 16 Avenue in Coleman. On December 27th, 2019, there was a complaint of theft of a 2014 Arctic Cat skidoo, which was locked in the back of a truck. The vehicle was parked at 133 Street and 20 Avenue in Blairmore. Traffic Stop On December 29th, 2019, RCMP completed a traffic stop, which revealed outstanding warrants for a 51-year-old male from Sundre. He was arrested and later released when he paid the outstanding fine.
On December 21st, 2019, at approximately 9pm, a second traffic stop occurred in Coleman. A 55-year-old male provided breath samples, which resulted in his licence being suspended for 72 hours and his vehicle was towed.
Hit and Run On December 31st, 2019, there was a complaint of hit and run damage to a bridge on 16 Avenue in west Coleman. The incident occurred on December 20th or 21st. It appears the vehicle hit the bridge causing substantial damage.
On December 21st, 2019, at approximately 10pm, a third check stop occurred in Coleman. A 31-year-old female showed signs of alcohol consumption. She provided two breath samples that resulted in charges of impaired driving. She was released on Documents for Pincher Creek Court and her vehicle was towed.
Threats On January 3rd, 2020, there was a complaint of disturbance at a residence in Coleman. Police attended and arrested a 24year-old male from Lethbridge. He was charged with uttering threats and possession of controlled substance. He was released on documents for Pincher Creek Court.
Break and Enter On December 22nd, 2019, there was a com-
Break and Enter On January 4th, 2020, there was a complaint of a
~ rCMP news ~
break and enter to a residence in Bellevue, which occurred between December 25th and 26th of 2019. Stolen items include cash and firearms from a gun safe. It is still under investigation. Break and Enter On January 5th, 2020, there was a complaint of a break and enter of a residence on 18 Avenue in Coleman. It occurred between January 4th and 5th. Prescription medication was taken. Fraud On January 6th, 2020, there was a complaint of fraud. The complainant advised an email was received saying money was owed and to click on a link. The complainant did so. The next day, an email was received alerting that someone had accessed his or her bank account. The bank is continuing to investigate and it appears the suspect is from Quebec. Hit and Run On January 6th, 2020, there was a complaint of a hit and run that damaged a fence. The incident occurred on January 3rd or 4th on 12 Avenue in Bellevue. Truck Theft On January 7th, 2020, RCMP received a complaint of truck theft sometime overnight. The 2015 Dodge 3500 was located later that day in a ditch off of highway 3 near Lundbreck. Scam On January 8th, 2020, there were three complaints of a scam from someone claiming to be Service Canada and that Social Insurance Numbers had been compromised. No information was given. Lost iPhone On January 8th, 2020, there was a report of a lost white iPhone sometime around December 26th of 2019. The phone was lost in the York Creek area. Traffic Stop On January 9th, 2020, a traffic stop occurred near Burmis. There was an odor of marijuana in the vehicle. A 30-year-old male driver from Leth-
bridge was charged with having a substance within reach of the driver. A violation ticket was issued. Theft On January 13th, 2020, there was a complaint of theft of items including a rifle from a parked vehicle on highway 940 approximately 5km north of Coleman. A 2004 Ford truck was broken into. Found bikes turned into Crowsnest Pass Bylaw Be aware of a new scam. Victims get phone calls from someone pretending to be from Service Canada or another government agency, saying their social insurance number (SIN) has been blocked, compromised or suspended. The call might be one of the latest variations on caller ID in which fraudsters disguises the number seen on the ID display in order to trick victims into answering phone. The person will ask for SIN and other personal info, such as date of birth, address, etc. Victims who provide personal info are at risk of identity fraud. Anyone with information regarding any crime is urged to contact the Crowsnest Pass RCMP Detachment at 403562-2867, or Crimestoppers to remain anonymous at 1-800-422TIPS. Reminder to residents of computer scams, credit cards scams, Grandparent scams, Revenue Canada scams asking for money or cash cards and saying warrants out for arrest, do not give out personal information to persons you don't know. DO NOT OPEN EMAILS if you are suspicious of its origin. Do NOT purchase gift cards for payment to Revenue Canada. Do not send monies to person claiming you have won a prize and need to send money for delivery. Crime mapping is available online to residents who are interested can login online at Municipality of Crowsnest Pass website (RCMP crime map for Crowsnest Pass). Crime mapping shows property crimes that occurred within the past two weeks in our area.
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4 – crowsnest PAss HerALD – Wednesday, January 15, 2020
Wednesday, January 15, 2020 - crowsnest PAss HerALD - 5
22 years of
service to our country Lt. Anna McNeil was presented the 2nd clasp for her Canadian Forces Decoration for 22 years of service on December 19th, 2019 by Capt Loyd Oldon from the Air Cadet Gliding Program Standards Evaluation Team based out of 2 Canada Air Division in Winnipeg. The Canadian Forces Decoration is given out to a person after completing 12 years as a member of the Canadian Forces. After the first 12 years are completed and you have your CD, you only have to put in 10 years to have a Clasp added. McNeil received her first clasp along with her two sisters in 2009. Herald contribtutor photo
Local realtor to host an appreciation night Randall Whiteside to host event at PPK
Stone’s Throw Café
celebrates
16 years in business! If you were part of our success we want to thank you! If you've never been in before, now is the time because there's free birthday cake and coffee.
Tuesday, January 21 1-3pm Stop by, visit with friends and enter to win some door prizes!
Main Street Blairmore, Crowsnest Pass
MonuMent Sale Ends January 31, 2020 10%off all cemetery monuments
DaviD SelleS Pass Herald Reporter
Realtor Randall Whiteside from Century 21 Foothills South will be hosting a community appreciation night next month as a way to give back to the Crowsnest Pass. “The idea behind it is a client appreciation event but I'm broadening it to a full community appreciation event. The Crowsnest Pass has been very good to me over the years and I want to show my gratitude,” said Whiteside. Whiteside says part of the reason for this event is his recent success. “I just finished my most successful year in real estate and ultimately I want to give back. The Crowsnest Pass is most of my real estate work. I've been a licensed realtor since 2006 and the Pass was where I started and I just want to celebrate my success a little bit.” Some local businesses are also helping with the event. “Spry, Alpenland, Crowsnest Coffee and Rebel BBQ have all generously donated prizes for the event,” said Whiteside. John Warlow with Tin Dogs Pub is generously donating the food. “He will be barbequing burgers and hot dogs for free but guests are encouraged to make donations to John’s local charity Crowsnest Awareness,” said Whiteside.
“I just finished my most successful year in real estate and ultimately I want to give back.” - Randall Whiteside C21 Foothills South Whitseside also encourages guests to bring a non-perishable donation for the local food bank. Whiteside says he'll also be supplying free drinks donated by friends in Lethbridge. Whiteside says he wants to make sure the businesses that are sponsoring the event get part of the spotlight as well. “What I'd really like to do for the local businesses who are sponsoring us is make sure they get the recognition.” According to Whiteside anyone in the community is invited to come but anyone interested in attending will need to sign up. “The whole community is available to come I just need to know who's coming. I'm allowed 150 people on the hill. My initial fear was that 300 people would show up and we'd have to turn 150 away. We need to know who's coming. Whiteside says that around 70 people have already signed up and that anyone who comes will receive a free lift ticket as part of the event. Whiteside says his previous involvement with the ski hill is one of the reasons he chose the
location. “In the past I have been quite involved with the Powderkeg. I believe this to be a huge asset for our community and I’m very happy to help support the hill on a day they otherwise would be closed and not generating revenue. I want to give a big thank you to Katherine Selenski for reaching out to me, which helped in the creation of this event.” The event is scheduled for February 4th from 5:30pm-8:30pm and Whiteside says he’d love to have people who may not have the chance to ski normally take advantage of this event and hopefully raise some money for some important local charities. “I really want to give back. I'd love to see some kids on the ski hill from the community that otherwise wouldn't have the chance to go. I'll be providing free rentals for anyone who needs them. To me, the focus is on the community.” People can sign up through Facebook Events by searching for Randall's Ski Party, by calling Randall at 403-915-6000 or by email at randallwhiteside@shaw.ca.
ContaCt Fantin’s Funeral Chapel For an appointment 403-562-8555
6 – crowsnest PAss HerALD – Wednesday, January 15, 2020
Editorial and Opinions What at career As the Pass Herald celebrates 90 years in the community I realized yesterday that I’ve worked at the Pass Herald for 20 years this year. Yes, 20 years. I will tell you this isn’t the career I thought I’d have after six years of university. When I graduated I thought I’d go and conquer the world, I’d have some big corporate job in Human Resources and I would make my mark. Well, as you can see things didn’t quite work out that way for me. Shortly after graduating in 1996, I started work at the University of Lethbridge in their HR department. I loved it, but around the same time I met this engineer from Saskatchewan and fell in love. He worked at the mines here in the valley and I gave up my dream job to follow a man. Yes, I was that girl! Within the year I was pregnant with Keiran. When he was around 8 months old we had an employee we had to fire when my parents were on holidays so I stepped in to help in the interim. I would bring Keiran to the office with me and work as well as I could with a baby. 20 years later I’m still here and I find it ironic that Keiran grew up under my desk, like I grew up under my moms. I remember being a little girl sitting under my mom’s desk pretending to answer the phone. It’s been a lifetime of saying, “Pass Herald, Lisa speaking”, both real and pretend. When I was a little girl I delivered the Pass Herald door to door while sitting in the truck box of one of my dad’s Fords. Unfortunately, if you tried that today.... All three of my boys have delivered papers and stuffed flyers. I love the smell and feel of the newspaper. I love the feel of the ink on my fingers. There is a familiarity to it all that brings back memories of times where we were all together here at the Pass Herald. Time, however, waits for no one and the Pass Herald, like all weekly newspapers, has taken a hit by the digital age. So in keeping with times we are now offer our customers the opportunity to purchase an e-subscription. We are re-vamping our website and we are having success when other papers are failing. Our website is one of the most hit here in the Crowsnest Pass with around 13,000 15,000 unique hits a month. We are excited about serving more readers throughout the Crowsnest Pass. Right now 3000 people read our paper per week, and here’s hoping for another 3000 with the ability to go digital. So as we head into our 90th year of producing your locally owned newspaper, we are doing so on a digital and paper platform. We are trying to make ‘real’ news available to everyone, not just the stuff you read on the Internet and social media. So thank you for your continued patronage, while several long standing newspapers in Alberta are shutting down, we are still here every week keeping you up to date with the happenings of the Crowsnest Pass. We are your history. I won’t do digital myself. Every week I wait for the paper to arrive after it’s been printed by the press in Lethbridge and on those really special days the paper is still slightly damp from the process of printing. Those are my favourite days, a slightly damp paper with the ink transferring onto my fingers. Brings a smile to my face every time. LS
Community Update Jim Prentice Wildlife Corridor receives support from Canadian Pacific Railway Nature Conservancy of Canada Canadian Pacific (CP) is joining the Nature Conservancy of Canada (NCC) in support of a critical wildlife corridor through the Crowsnest Pass. The Jim Prentice Wildlife Corridor is located between Crowsnest Lake and the town of Coleman. It will connect Crown forest reserve lands in the north to the Castle parks network (consisting of Castle Provincial Park and Castle Wildland Provincial Park), as well as to Waterton Lakes National Park and Glacier National Park to the south. CP is providing $500,000 to help conserve and steward lands within the targeted corridor and will be the presenting sponsor of several key community events being held to raise awareness for the corridor. Announced in October 2018, the Jim Prentice Wildlife Corridor will create a network of conservation lands across Highway 3 in an area that naturally funnels wildlife movement north and south through the Rocky Mountains. This corridor is named after the former Al-
berta Premier Jim Prentice, who was an active supporter of conservation, including NCC’s work, both during his time as Premier of Alberta and as Minister of the Environment with the Government of Canada. Since the launch of the campaign to conserve the wildlife corridor, NCC has seen a very positive response from the community and from caring supporters of the project. To date, NCC has successfully conserved more than 80 per cent of the target lands within the corridor area. NCC is in discussion with the remaining landowners and hopes to conserve the final properties in 2020. CP’s funding will also be used to conduct research, which will begin in 2020, on wildlife movement across the Jim Prentice Wildlife Corridor. This research will use cameras to capture photos of wildlife using the corridor so we are able to better understand which species are moving through the area, and gather important information on the timing of their crossings. This is a project of international significance, as conserving a wildlife corridor through the
Crowsnest Pass will benefit wildlife travelling through the Rocky Mountains in Canada and the United States. This natural link between protected spaces has been a priority for conservation organizations for decades. Quotes The Jim Prentice Wildlife Corridor is the accumulation of many years of work in the Crowsnest Pass and is a major conservation achievement. This natural link between protected spaces has been a priority for conservation organizations for decades. The Nature Conservancy of Canada is very proud to have Canadian Pacific Railway as a supporter of this important project. Bob Demulder, Regional Vice-President of the Nature Conservancy of Canada CP is proud to be a contributor to this important initiative in memory of Jim Prentice, an active supporter of conservation and a former member of our Board of Directors. CP has a long history operating through the Crowsnest Pass and recognizes the potential impacts our operations can have on wildlife and ecosystems along our right of way. We are committed to helping grow the North American economy in a sustainable manner, while supporting meaningful programs and
research such as this. Glen Wilson, Managing Director Environmental Risk, CP Facts • Development in the pass has created challenges for wildlife movement. This has affected animal populations by limiting genetic diversity, increasing mortality rates and impacting the ability to migrate. The Jim Prentice Wildlife Corridor initiative will ensure that open, undeveloped areas will remain to facilitate wildlife movement. • Almost all of the wildlife species that live in the foothills and mountain regions of Alberta will use this corridor. This includes ungulates (elk, deer, moose and bighorn sheep) and carnivores, (bear, wolverine and cougar). about The Nature Conservancy of Canada (NCC) is the nation’s leading notfor-profit, private land conservation organization, working to protect our most important natural areas and the plants and animals they sustain. Since 1962, NCC and its partners have helped to protect 14 million hectares (35 million acres), coast to coast to coast. In Alberta, NCC has helped to protect more than 450,000 hectares (1.1 million acres).
Letters PoLicy The Pass Herald welcomes Letters to the Editor that examine issues, but reserves the right to edit for length, libel and syntax. Writers must sign letters and include first and last names, address and telephone number. Address and telephone numbers will not be published. Only in exceptional cases will the Pass Herald withhold the name of the writer and in those cases the writer must disclose his/her name, address and telephone number to the Editor. Electronic email will be considered an electronic signature. Letters to the Editor do not reflect the opinion of the Pass Herald. Letters cannot exceed 1,000 words. We have limited space, but we do enjoy printing every article. So please, to allow everyone to express their opinion, keep the letters short and to the point. We do have the right to refuse any letter that in our judgement may contain libel or libelous opinions. Should a litigation result from your letter, you as the writer are responsible but so is this newspaper as the publisher. The Pass Herald is a family owned community newspaper and therefore reserves the right to refuse any advertisement that in our opinion does not follow our mandate. We cannot accept advertisements or letters criticizing or disparaging other advertisers, companies or individuals or any advertisements directed to a religion or race.
The Only lOcally OWned neWspaper serving The crOWsnesT pass & area
established in 1930
Serving the community for 90 years e-Mail: passherald@shaw.ca___Website: www.passherald.ca SUBScrIPtION rateS: (GSt Included) • Single copy: $1.00 • crowsnest Pass and area - $40/year (within a 40-mile radius) • Seniors -$35.00/year • Outside a 40-mile radius - $60/year •USa - $75/year
Lisa Sygutek - Publisher/Editor Mike Chambers - Production Manager David Selles - Reporter
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Owned and Operated by Lisa Sygutek Located at 12925 - 20th Ave. • P.O. Box 960 • Blairmore, Alberta • TOK OEO
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Wednesday, January 15, 2020 - crowSneSt PASS HerALD - 7
John Pundyk.CoM
Simply Selles by David Selles Well, after a three-week break and time spent with family and friends, I’m officially ready to get back to work now. While the break was extremely refreshing and fun, I like the fact that I will have some structure in my life again, along with some quieter days. Don’t get me wrong, my family is amazing but having all 25 or so of us in the same two rooms for a few hours a day on multiple different occasions can get a little hectic. I made some great new memories over the break including watching Canada win gold at the 2020 World Junior Championship with my oldest nephews, game nights with parents and siblings and so much more. Now I can turn my focus to 2020 and all it will have to offer. I already have some plans in the works for the year, including a trip to Edmonton for the 2021 World Junior tournament. As exciting as those things may be, I also need to try and focus on the here and now which includes being back at work and many other daily tasks. Last year I wrote a column on how the world has almost forces people to look so far ahead that they miss what’s right in front of them. Take going camping for example, if you want to be guaranteed a certain timeframe in the summer, you have to book your sites months in advance. I’m also falling into that trap this year as my friends and I will be purchasing our tickets for the World Juniors, which take place in December and January 2021, this week already. It makes it that much harder to live in the now when plans for the future can be so exciting but we need to do our best. One way to do that is to plan things more frequently and closer to the day you’re at. I’ve made plans for this Friday with my dad and two oldest nephews which helps me live more in the now than if I was only focused on my plans for the end of the year. I guess you could say that’s my resolution for this year. I’m going to try my best to live more in the present because I don’t want to miss all the amazing things this year will offer me all because I’m focused on my plans for December. I hope we can all enjoy our first year of the new decade to the fullest!
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Royal LePage South Country Real Estate Services Ltd. mountain property Great opportunity to own a mountain acreage close to Lee Lake and en route to Castle Mountain Ski Resort. This acreage offers many opportunities for someone who would like to keep horses or other farm animals on a small piece of land. Small acreages in this area are rare because of the subdivision process and requirements. Just off of Highway 507. $249,000 CALL JOHN MLS
Large family bungalow in central Blairmore location with fully developed basement. 3 bedrooms up, 2 down. Spacious living area with vaulted ceiling and a 3-sided gas fireplace. Great covered deck off the dining area for BBQ or entertainment. The master bedroom features a soaker tub and separate shower. Large media room/family room. Fully fenced yard. Large attached garage and paved drive. Fantastic value. $429,900 CALL JOHN MLS
coleman Full lot with exceptional mountain views. House is to be removed so this property is priced for the lot value only. One of the very few sites where you can see Crowsnest Mountain, Tecumseh and the South Range all at the same time. $69,000 GST CALL JOHN MLS
coleman Great opportunity. Bright, well laid out 2 bedroom, ground level apartment is located in the well kept Rocky Mountain Condo complex. The condo fees include heat and town utilities. Located in a beautiful area with lots of sun and scenic mountain views. Why pay rent when you can own and build equitY. $99,000 CALL JOHN MLS
belleVue Fantastic opportunity for commercial location along busy Highway 3. East and West bound traffic access. Currently occupied as a successful flyfishing shop, known to fly fishermen throughout Canada and the U.S. Can be sold as a business to someone wishing for a change of pace or for a property that can be re-purposed. Present zoning is C1 allows for different opportunities. High traffic volume in front of the property. $435,000 CALL JOHN MLS
timberline ridge Great opportunity to buy affordable building lots in Timberline Ridge, Bellevue. Fully serviced lots with great sun exposure. Level building site. Very nice development with wide paved streets and all underground utilities. Build now or buy a lot to build in the future. Don't miss the opportunity to consider this location. Lots starting at $68,000 + GST CALL JOHN MLS
blairmore condo Very reasonable condo fees with in suite washer & dryer. Expertly updated for the comforts of modern living in the Canadian Rockies. An affordable option as a home or as an investment. Excellent main street location. Parking at rear of building. Ski hill, swimming pool and other amenities within walking distance. $84,000 CALL JOHN MLS
commercial lot Commercial land with east/west access on busy Hwy 3. Located at first entrance to Bellevue. Has access to municipal water and sewer. This bare land property can be acquired with bordering property, Crowsnest Angler. Tremendous traffic count in front of property. Suitable for many different activities. $190,000 CALL JOHN MLS
#4 blairmore condo Great Condo apartment in historic building in central Blairmore. Expertly updated for modern living in the Canadian Rockies. Affordable option as a home or as an investment. Parking at rear. Ski hill, swimming pool within walking distance. Offers carefree condo living. $84,000 CALL JOHN MLS
blairmore Historic brick home located on extralarge corner lot. 5-bedroom, 4-bathroom home was built with brick. Stain glass windows. Beautiful central staircase. Self-contained apartment on second floor. Amazing decks and backyard. Huge lot. 24’ x 38’ garage, large garden shed and fenced RV parking. Great access front and back lane. $619,000 CALL JOHN MLS
65 ironstone High quality 4 bedroom mountain condo at Ironstone Lookout in beautiful Crowsnest Pass. Bright open floor plan where you can choose high-end woodwork and cabinetry. Spacious main floor laundry. Large garage with double car driveway. Still time to choose from a variety of quality finishes. Enjoy maintenance free luxury living at an INCREDIBLE price. $349,000 + GST CALL JOHN MLS
inVestment property QE II Highway Commercial. High visibility and easy access. For Sale or Lease. Five acre developed parcel along busy Calgary-Red Deer Corridor. This fantastic piece of land is located on the southeast approach to Bowden in Red Deer County. Fully fenced and gated with industrial chain link fence. Sewer and water in the road in front of property. $950,000 CALL JOHN MLS
hillcrest Charming, quiet street in Hillcrest. Scenic with babbling brook nearby. This 3+1 bedroom home was recently moved into this location and placed on an ICF basement. Newer mechanical systems. Original hardwood floors. Large, bright basement. Great for new family or a retirement home. Garden shed. $279,900 CALL JOHN MLS
coleman
belleVue acreage Large acreage in Crowsnest Pass. 5.88 acres with grass, suitable for horses. Several building sites. Awesome deal for this many acres. Beautiful mountain views. Build a walk-out bungalow, if you choose. Water well on property. Power and gas nearby. Lots of sun. $219,500 CALL JOHN MLS
office space blairmore
coleman Submitted photo
jpundyk@shaw.ca
blairmore
Spacious 3 bedroom home. This one level house is expertly rebuilt with an addition featuring a large sitting room and an ample sized master bedroom. Large family room with a gas fireplace and bright front room with fantastic mountain view. Large screened porch. Garage accessible from the back lane. Excellent starter home or revenue property. $172,500 CALL JOHN MLS
On January 13, at the Coleman Arena, Scotiabank donated $1000 to our local CNP Thunder Minor Hockey Club as a part of our Scotiabank Community Hockey Program. Scotiabank has made this commitment to minor hockey in every community where Scotiabank is in Canada. Along with a cash donation Scotiabank also provides some fun items for the players. This year there were skate drying towels, toques, pucks, as well as luggage tags.
562-8830
Affordable 50’ x 100’ flat lot in Coleman Crowsnest Pass. All services near property. Close to mountain back country. Fantastic fly fishing. Renowned mountain biking, motorized, groomed sled and hiking network of trails near-by. York Creek staging area just around the corner. Popular walking path. Back lane access. Adjacent lot also available for sale. $39,000 CALL JOHN MLS
Fantastic Opportunity for first class office space in a busy downtown Blairmore location. Currently used as a mine office, but may be re-purposed into any other commercial use. Current zoning is commercial. Perfect location. Call Lister for more details. $104,000 CALL JOHN MLS
24 ironstone 4-bedroom, 3-bathroom, bungalow with vaulted ceilings and open floor plan. Hardwood flooring, alder wood cabinets and quartz counters. Stainless steel appliances and gas fireplace. Master suite with large walk-in closet and 3-piece bathroom. Double car garage. Main floor laundry hookups and downstairs laundry. Spacious family room downstairs with wide stairway incorporating both living areas. Ample parking and beautiful green space. $345,000 CALL JOHN MLS
Vacant properties for all types of deVelopment. residential or commercial. economy or deluxe. contact John for details
8 – Crowsnest Pass HeraLD – Wednesday, January 15, 2020
Celebrating Minor Hockey Week January 10th - 19th, 2020 DaviD SelleS Pass Herald Reporter
This week is Minor Hockey Week in the Crowsnest Pass. Communications Director for Crowsnest Pass Minor Hockey, Anne Marie Bishop, says this year has been a positive one. “It's been going really good. We have our initiation and pre-novice teams playing and also the novice teams out of the pass and then our atom team has combined with Pincher Creek but they do
some of their practices here, which is nice.” Bishop also says the initiation and novice level teams have been playing in the High Country League and have also been doing tournaments on the side of that. As for the Novice team, they have a home tournament this coming weekend and there are also two other tournaments on the docket for the team. “In Novice we have our home tournament coming up this weekend
and then we have a second home tournament that we're doing in March. We'll also have a tournament in Claresholm.” Overall, Bishop says the kids are enjoying it. “The kids are having a lot of fun. At the prenovice, initiation and novice stage a lot of it's focused more on having fun, being coachable and being a team player.” Bishop also believes that the number of kids in the local association will increase in the years to
come. “We've seen over the past couple of years in the younger levels that we've stayed consistent with numbers. Next year as the younger kids go through we fully expect to have our atom team iced here.” According to Bishop, while overall numbers are down across Canada, she finds that Hockey Canada and Hockey Alberta have done a lot of work mitigating some of the things parents were concerned about. “There's a lot of
awareness on signs of concussions and how to detect and prevent them. I feel like we're at a place where numbers have been consistent and we hope our numbers will increase as these kids go through.” When it comes to the Crowsnest Pass Atom team, they combined with the Pincher Creek Hockey Association and President Jeff Kaupp says that the year there has been going well and that the combined team has worked well overall.
“The year is going really well. All our teams are competing in their divisions and it's been a lot of fun and everybody is having a good time. It's been a smooth process mainly because of parent's involvement. They were pretty open and have cooperated in making it work. It's the parents and the players that are making it work for everybody.” Both associations look forward to a solid finish to the season.
CNP Thunder Initiation Back (L to R): Shawn Pierzchala, John Hawkins, Garry Luini, David Graham, Shane Pagnucco Middle: Garrison Gillard, Charlie Hawkins, Griffin Luini, Mika Kuftinoff, Ember Cytko, Cruz McKee, Abbott Hawkins, Rory Pierzchala Front: Reggie Davis, Dawson Vanderplas, Mason Bradbury, Weston Sagrafena, Maggie Dawson, Gia Luini, Noah Burton, Levi Michalsky Photo courtesy of Jamie Hide photography
CNP Thunder Novice Back (L to R): Marshall Banting, Mike Kirkman, Craig Bishop, Jeff Dawson, Travis Gibboney, John Hawkins, Ron Gillespie Middle: Ashton Castellarin, Sam Graham, Aidan Bishop, Ryder Jorgensen, Isaac Bailey, Jack Bishop, Johnny Hawkins, Owen Kirkman Front: Parker Bunnage, Isaac Bailey, Rowan Dawson, Nicolas Gillespie, Sophie GibboneyStafford, Carsen Hruby, Malcolm Banting Photo courtesy of Jamie Hide photography
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Wednesday, January 15, 2020 - crowsnest pass HeraLD - 9
Pincher Creek Initiation Back Row - Br: Sam Quinlan, Jeff Kaupp, Chad Jessen, Cal Olson Middle - Left to Right: Daxon McKenzie, Sam Stensrud, River Koster, Nash Lunn, Michael Bevans, Tommy Quinlan, Owen Prout. Front - Left to right: (on knees) Kayden Blanchard, Jacob Urlacher, Jacob Kaupp, Rycken Armsworthy, Noah McNeil, Joe Rypien, Zander Jessen, Soula Lunn
Pincher Creek Novice Back Row Cal Olson, Kevin Olson, Lucas Sorge, Jason Szaroz, Allan Kaupp 3rd row - Maxwell Olson, Ryleigh White Cow, Karson Crow Show, Xxavier Prairie Chicken, Kayson Rodwell, Joshua Grujic, Jake Reser 2nd row - Joel Moller, Grayson Sorge, Luke Rypien, Gavin Boissoneault, Dimitri Bond, Easton Szaroz, Gage Johnson, Jasper Patrick, Ethan Maier, Jameson Patrick, Brody Allen
Pincher Creek Atoms Back Row- Cal Olson, Archie Craig, Eric Blanchard, Tommy Four Horns Middle - Gavin Samuel, Jacob Poulsen, Bronek McKenzie, Carter McGlynn, Graison Shade, Pearson Sokoloski, Drake Davis, Denley Craig Front Row- Logan Mitchell, Kian Harrigan, Pacyn Four Horns, Daelan Breeze, Keagan Grant
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10 – Crowsnest Pass HeraLD – Wednesday, January 15, 2020
Pincher Creek Pee Wee Back Row - Cory Anderson, Eric Blanchard, Dylan Prout, Chad Anctil Middle Row- Hunter McMullen, Branden Anctil, Ashton Weinberg, Walker Anderson, Hunter Little Bear, Maddox Prout, Kylee North Peigan Front Row - Landon Sokoloski, Jaden Farraj, Tristan Grant, Axel Safranka, Rowan Mackenzie, Caine Jorgenson, JJ Macgregeor
Pincher Creek Bantams Back row L - R: Travis Bastien (assistant Coach), Drew Hampel (Assistant coach), Jaydon Draper, Christian Ouellette, Brayden Anctil, Avery Stewart-Krooshoop, Quinn Douglas, Joah Randall, Jaxon Shenton, Eric Radvak, Adam Farraj, Maddix Dyck, Sean Stuckey (head coach). Front row L - R: Travis Bastien Jr, Drew Stuckey, Ryatt Thomson, Zack Hann (goalie),Lane Conely, Garrett Larson, Nathan Mitchell, & Aiden Potts. Missing from photo are Darcy Wemp (goalie) and Tony Radvak (assistant coach)
Pincher Creek Midgets Back row: Jeremy Ames . Jordan Ayoub, Colton Kirkman, Michael Kleinhans-Kaupp, Landon Yakubowski, Cooper Snider, Easton Fitzpatrick, Kieran Randall, Jace Lewis, Sam Jordan, Cole Wemp, Tommy Four Horns, Rory Snider Middle: Brad Kleinhans, Nick Crook, Dillon Stevenson, Rhett Fitzpatrick, Joaquin Four Horns, Cory Dyck, Chris Collings, Cade Lewis, Cam Hewiston, Carter Neufeld-Shea, Wes Krampe, Brayden Scotton Pincher Creek Minor Hockey photos courtesy of Jessica Maunsell photos
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Wednesday, January 15, 2020 - crowSneSt PaSS HeraLD - 11
Passtrak’s Jack Simpson meet Ritch BRaun Passtrak
The first track & field competition of 2020 took place at the University of Calgary on January 5. Passtrak had 10 athletes who contested 29 events. They accumulated 23 top three finishesalong with 12 life time best performances. Along the way they also set five new Passtrak club records. Marley Winter completed her first competition in a Passtrak uniform. She had three events in the U10 girls age group. She placed first in the 60 metres in 10.90 seconds and first in the 300metres in 1:03.23. That was a new Passtrak club record for her age group. She finished third in the150 metres in 27.96 seconds to round out the day. Cammy Hay was in the same category and the same three events. She placed second in the 60 metres in 11.02 seconds which was a life time best performance. She ran the fastest 150 metres of her life in 27.62 seconds for a first place finish. In the 300 metres she took second place in 1:09.32. Carson Hay had two fourth place finishes in
the boys U12 division. He clocked 33.49 seconds in the 150 metres and 1:14.39 in the 300 metres. Colton Sutherland had three second place finishes in the same age group. He recorded 10.81 seconds in the 60 metres, 28.87 seconds in the 150 metres and 1:00.60 in the 300 metres. Also in the U12 boys events, Cohen Folkard scored three third place finishes. He timed 11.51seconds in the 60 metres, 30.13 seconds in the 150 metres and 1:12.95 in the 300 metres. Eve Winter earned the title of Passtrak’s top athlete of the track meet by improving in all three of her events. In the girls U14 age group she placed first in the 60 metres in 9.69 seconds and first in the 150 metres in 24.40 seconds. In her third event, the 400 metres, she placed third in 1:23.20. Clara Websdale represented the club in the U16 girls category. She placed seventh in the 60 metres in 10.04 seconds and fifth in the 150 metres in 25.24 seconds. She chopped a massive 18 seconds off her personal best in the 400 metres by fin-
ishing in 1:21.37 for third place. Jack Bailey placed third in the U16 boys 60 metres in 8.82 seconds. He then cut five seconds off his previous best 400 metre time by taking second place in 1:10.50. His third event was the 60 metre hurdles where he ran a personal best of 10.86 seconds for second place. Alec Morado was in the boys U18 events. He came ninth in the 60 metres where he tied his best ever of 8.09 seconds. He ran the fastest 300 metres of his life in 43.77 seconds to place eighth then completed the 600 metre race in 1:48.76 for third place. Craig Hay represented the club in the Masters category. He ran 8.96 seconds in the 60 metres for third place which also set a new Passtrak club record. He set his second club record of the day in the 300 metres where he placed first in a life time best of 48.69 seconds. To continue the streak he set a third club record in the 600 metres and another life time best by finishing first in 2:00.07.
Peter Swain
Director of South Region at Ministry of Environment and Parks
Is there anyone free of addictions? Are all addictions negative? Can we be cured of addictions? Would humans be better off if we didn’t get addicted? There is no end to the questions and no one correct answer. I was sitting in my favourite chair at home enjoying the life which I worked so hard to have. A life long of hardships, constant risk-taking, and sacrifice, many fights, lost and won; and I was looking at a pill container, thinking. If I just swallow those, I will fall to sleep and … nothing. Just a short while before that time I almost died and was revived by some brave paramedics and now I was wondering if saving my life could have been a mistake. I considered the possibility that I am a burden upon my loved ones and that I finished my contribution and became a liability. Those who pay my pension would agree. On TV a reporter was talking about Fentanyl. A new miracle drug that is by far more addictive than Heroine and causes people to commit suicide. On my back, I had a prescribed Fentanyl patch. The pain clinic specialist told me to get off it calling it an “end-of-life medication”. I was planning to talk to my doctor about it but just about missed the mark. If I swallowed the pills in front of me, I would not have to make difficult choices. The new opiates that included Fentanyl were marketed as a great new discovery and doctors fell for the well-planned campaign which enriched a few pharmaceutical companies and their shareholders at the expense of the rest of us. Some people lost their lives to gun violence, but many more did and still do to the legal drug crisis. Soon after, the illegal element joined in. Thanks to our good Canadian public health care system which includes mental health components, my and other’s lives have been saved after a long horrible fight. Getting off an addiction is a lot harder than getting on. My deadly fight against Fentanyl is one example of the fight against addiction behaviour, but there are millions of us by Avner Perl at a lethal war with addictions at all levels every day in every walk of life. It affects our families, employment, studies, and the costs are astronomical. When we think about addictions, many of us zoom in on smoking. Fifty years ago North America identified cigarettes as a main contributor to some illnesses, lung cancer and cardiovascular included. That war has been won but still, people with limited imagination are sticking to it ignoring new and old threats that should be dealt with more seriously. I see us ignoring major new addictions while chasing seniors and hospital patients who smoke, out into cold streets to freeze, while having a cigarette. There is a perspective problem here. I observed common addiction problems during the recent holiday, on the people around. It wasn’t hard to find. I saw the alcohol addicts telling about losing jobs, driving privileges, families and all that mattered to them. Others live with addictions to harsh substances like Heroin and crystal meth. They all show signs of depression. Somehow life is not offering them what they want or often they envy others who live better, in their opinion. Addiction is a behaviour that often harms people, but they can’t quit doing it. My friend who is heavily involved in Alcoholics Anonymous says that it is a disease and must be treated as such. I don’t doubt it. It is not criminal behaviour and the infected person rarely is able to quit using what harms them without the help of others. Those who become addicted ruin their lives and commonly the lives of those around them. It is easy to go to any major city and find an area where addicts roam. They are recognizable by their erratic behaviour and the willingness to do anything for the next “fix”. Some times they are people whom we knew at better times. We look at them and pray that it will never happen to us, but we don’t know. When someone is in the clutches of dangerous well-known addiction help is very limited, since it is costly. Another related problem is the more acceptable addictions, which are not so easy to see, but ruin lives just the same. Just a note: In the US in 2018 every 7.5 minutes someone died from an overdose.
The Simple Raven’s Post
Addictions, of body and the mind
Here is a link to my blog: https://thesimpleravenspost.blogspot.ca/ Feel free to check other articles and comment.
12 – CROWSNEST PaSS hERald – Wednesday, January 15, 2020
Council Briefs DaviD SelleS Pass Herald Reporter
The following topics were discussed at the council meeting on Tuesday, January 7th. North Coal Update North Coal provided council with an update on where they are regarding their mining operation at
Michel Head and Loop Ridge. North Coal is currently targeting a June 2020 submission to the BC Environmental Assessment Office. Once the submission is made, The BCEAO can take 12 months to make a decision. North Coal is also currently targeting construction for 2021-2022
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and first coal in 2023. Museum Block Plan Council spent some time discussing a master plan in conjunction with the Crowsnest Museum. The master plan would include proposed upgrades to areas around the museum. The main discussion was around whether or not council should provide funds for this. After further discussion, Councillor Filipuzzi made a motion that council find the funds for the master plan. Council spent a few moments discussing the motion and then carried the motion. Mountain Pine Beetle Council also spent time discussing problems with the Mountain Pine Beetle in the area. In the fall of 2019, Administration was contacted by an Alberta Agriculture and Forestry Forest Health Officer saying approximately 100 trees in the area were infested by MPB’s. Administration was told that approximately 30 of these trees were located on private land meaning they are outside of the control program that the province would be completing later in the fall of 2019. Administration was advised to apply for a grant through
the Mountain Pine Beetle Municipal Grant Program to cover the costs of the tree removal. Under the program, the Municipality would hire a contractor and would coordinate permission and access to the private lands. Administration completed the grant application with support from our local Forest Health Officer and has obtained land owner permission for access and removal of the trees. In addition, the Province has now completed the removal of the trees that were located on Crown land. Administration was advised on December 20, 2019 that funding would not be applied to the Mountain Pine Beetle Grant Program and instead the Province would be focusing funding to
Crown land. They did advise however that the they are not cancelling the program as of yet, and there may be funding opportunities in October 2020. In addition, they have requested that the Municipality contacts the Federal Minister of Natural Resources to support the Alberta MPB Federal Funding Request. With the federal funding, it is likely that they could better support the Municipal Mountain Pine Beetle Grant Program. Administration has already written back to the Director of Forest Health and Adaptation asking for them to reconsider the decision on the grant funding as the removal of these trees on private property has the potential of eradicating the MPB from our area.
Also, given that the surrounding properties are Crown land, any spread from these trees will result in increased efforts and costs of their department in future years. After further discussion on this topic, Councillor Sygutek made two motions that letters be sent to multiple government heads explaining the situation. Both motions were passed by council. Kananaskis Rodeo Association Skijoring Event Request The Kananaskis Rodeo Association requested that council approve their skijoring event for 2020. After a brief discussion on it, Councillor Ward moved that the request be accepted and the motion was carried.
Cox Electric giving back to its community
ProPerTies for sale 2041-135 Street, Blairmore 2033-135 Street, Blairmore
Both properties are vacant and are open for inspection. Very good Blairmore locations Building report, RPR’s, and Compliance letters are current. All offers will be considered. Must be sold!
Herald contributor photo
Left to right, Doug Cox, Desiree Erdmann and Melissa Singer with a donation cheque to the Crowsnest Pass Food Bank Society, in hopes of making this the happiest of holidays for the folks in the community!
DaviD SelleS Pass Herald Reporter
Tel 1-709-219-2022
Doug Cox, founder of Cox Electric – a Division of Neu-Lite Electric & Melissa Singer - Neu-Lite Electric, presented a donation cheque to the Crowsnest Pass Food Bank Society, in hopes of making this the happiest of holidays for the folks in the community! This past year was a busy, productive and ex-
citing time for Cox Electric, which included partnering up and becoming a member of the Neu-Lite Electric family, based in Lethbridge, AB. With Neu-Lite having proudly provided residential, commercial, industrial and agricultural services throughout Southern Alberta for the last 45 years, and Doug Cox and his team offering prompt service, cost effective and
honest electrical solutions to the Crowsnest Pass area for over 20 years, this partnership just made sense! Doug and his crew attribute their ongoing success to their strong commitment to meeting the needs of the people and businesses in the community they proudly call “home”, and thank you all for your continued trust and support in our company!
Wednesday, January 15, 2020 - crowsnest PAss HerALD - 13
Looking Back
By John Kinnear
Remembering the Ostash Tragedy I have dipped into Mrs. Mundie’s scrapbooks once again and will take you back to the era when natural gas conversions were going on in the Pass. It was an amazing time in which the old coal furnace and the continuous chore of feeding and banking it was replaced by a burner that only required a thermostat. No shoveling coal, no cut wood and no ashes. In this particular scrapbook are two full pages of clippings about a 1964 tragedy. I was sixteen that year; two years after these conversions had begun and actually worked digging shallow gas lines for the town as a part-time summer job. In October of that year there was a disaster that unfolded connected to this conversion that was unprecedented in Pass history. On Tuesday, March 24 of that year the Ostash family in Coleman were overwhelmed by a deadly colorless, odourless gas in their home. An investigation later revealed that the house’s chimney had been partially blocked with soot that had accumulated before the furnace was converted. That day in was -28 centigrade outside so their furnace was probably running quite heavily. I remember my father, who was fire chief here at the time, talking about it to me. He said he got a call from Chief Corson that something was wrong at the Ostash home on 19 Avenue in Coleman. Jack Ostash, who had been elected town mayor the previous October, had not come that morning to open up the Coleman Hotel. Something was not right. The phone kept ringing busy. The Coleman Hotel, where the new Country Encounters Bed and Breakfast building stands, had been owned by him for some time. Police Chief Corson and my father both broke into the house to see what was wrong. What they found was the whole family, scattered through different parts of the house, overcome and unresponsive. Chief Corson recognized it could be a gas issue and they immediately smashed out some windows to get more air into the house. A call went out for more help. Jack Ostash’s 18 year-old son Eddie was found dead in his bed. His mother Marie was found draped over his body and it appeared she was trying to rouse him when she collapsed herself. Jack was found unconscious on his bed and responded somewhat when shaken, as did his wife Marie. Jack’s 16-year-old son Allan and 11-year-old daughter Mary Jane also responded somewhat when shaken and were immediately taken to hospital where it was assumed they would recover. I recall my father telling me about their flushed red blotchy faces and surmising that gas could be the cause. This red flushing is a listed symptom of carbon monoxide (CO) poisoning but does not necessarily occur in all instances. What is known though is what happens when CO enters the body. It bonds with the hemoglobin in our blood more readily than oxygen does. The result of high levels of CO is reduced oxygen in the body eventually causing dizziness, shortness of breath, fatigue, drowsiness, nausea and vomiting and ultimately death. Apparently the family had had a dinner of liver, corn and peas on the Monday night. That was March 24th, 1964 and at that time their youngest daughter Noella was in hospital suffering from a stomach ailment. It is not clear if Noella was taken there on the Monday or earlier in the week. Noella had been born the previous Christmas Day and was four months old when they took her to the hospital where she stayed for observation. It is not a stretch to suggest that the insidious carbon monoxide (CO), swirling unnoticed throughout the house, could have been at play there in Noella’s sickness. It is also sobering to realize that being there and not home probably saved her life. It appears that the hospital’s doctors may have also suspected that some other toxin might be an issue. They had a special anti-toxin for botulism flown in to Fort Macleod and then driven directly to the hospital to be administered. The belief that Allan and Mary Jane would survive was tragically not to be. Mary Jane died at hospital at 5 pm that night and Allan passed early the next morning. Jack Ostash had moved here from New Westminster in 1959 and had just bought the house in which this heartbreaking disaster had occurred. His wife Marie, who was 37, recovered from this bizarre brush with death and was released the following Monday. I cannot imagine for the life of me what it must have been like for her to take the news that her three oldest children were gone. Jack remained in critical condition in hospital and didn’t regain consciousness until Friday when he was moved to University Hospital in Edmonton where, it was reported, he underwent some kind of kidney treatment. When so much of your bodies oxygen is displaced in such a manner all kinds of short term and long term damage can result. In Jack’s case I am assuming this was the issue. I remember helping decorate the gymnasium for graduation that year at Horace Allen High School. We placed black silhouettes of all the grad’s face profiles up on the gym wall and there was one also for Eddie who would have graduated that year. While looking at this silhouette it all hit home to me. Eddie was gone. An autopsy of Eddie was done in Lethbridge that very Tuesday night of the disaster which verified carbon monoxide poisoning. An inquest was ordered by then Coroner F. S. Radford. On every occasion that I go to the Coleman Catholic Cemetery to visit with my brother Alex, I take the time to walk to the very west end of the cemetery and pay my respects to Eddie, Allan and Mary Jane. The whole family are all there now in that special plot with a beautiful statue of the Virgin Mary on a pedestal towering over Mary Jane’s marker. Mother Marie passed in the year 2000 and is on their right and Jack who passed in February of 2018 at the age of 96 is on their left. Jack was a remarkable man who managed to live his life to the fullest for another 54 years despite enduring the terrible loss of his three children all at once. I recall seeing Jack walking around town years after the accident and noticed his right leg was rigid when he walked . I believe someone told me back then that he had lost it because of the carbon monoxide poisoning. Some research revealed to me that it can happen that the CO damage is so bad that doctors are forced to amputate to save the person’s life. The Ostash parent’s plots frame their children’s resting place. It struck me that this is symbolic in a way, of parents always being beside their children. In this case in life and in death. But what of the four month old Noella? I finally found her obituary in the Calgary Herald. She unfortunately passed away on November 1, 2015 at the age of 51. Her full name was “Noella Joy Eve”. A child born on Christmas Day indeed! Author’s Note: I hope that retelling this story does not offend anyone, whether it be remaining family or others. It is a part of our history and lessons were learned. I will always remember the Ostash family with reverence. A good part of the 50 or so scrap books of Mrs. Mundie have clippings from what is known as CNP Bureau. Vern Decoux was the prime reporter for this bureau for many many years and his contribution to documenting Pass history is remarkable. Whether it be a tragic event like this, a graduation or wedding photo or any other significant story here, Vern, working through the Lethbridge Herald CNP Bureau covered them all. It must have been heartbreaking for him to cover this story. - Lethbridge Herald front page coverage of Ostash tragedy - courtesy of Lethbridge Herald CNP Bureau and Mrs. Mundie - Next day coverage showing Marie Ostash holding Noella and shot of chimney - courtesy CNP Bureau and Mrs Mundie. - Eddie, Mary Jane and Allan Ostash - courtesy CNP Bureau and Mrs Mundie. - Coleman Catholic Cemetery plots for John (Jack), Allan Anthony, Mary Jane Ann, Edward James and Marie - Ostash - courtesy of Cory Gray of findagrave.com - Edward James Ostash's marker at cemetery- courtesy of findagrave Cory Gray - Front Page Photo - Mary Jane Ann Ostash - 11 years old when lost
14 – Crowsnest pass HeraLD – Wednesday, January 15, 2020
3” wide version
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In loving memory of our parents Hilda Edna (Wall) Mercereau • May 1932- July 1952 August Pierre Mercereau • May 1929- Dec 2019 Together again at last. We shall not forget. ~ Love Annette
EXPIRY DATE:___________________
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Feed and Seed
HEATED CANOLA buying Green, Heated or Springthrashed Canola. Buying: oats, barley, wheat & peas for feed. Buying damaged or offgrade grain. "On Farm Pickup" Westcan Feed & Grain, 1-877-2505252.
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Health HIP/KNEE REPLACEMENT? Other medical conditions causing TROUBLE WALKING or DRESSING? The Disability Tax Credit allows for $3,000 yearly tax credit and $30, 000 lump
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Estate of RuSSELL ChARLES MONTALbETTI, call Kellie at 778-257-8647 who died on October 24th, 2019. Bonded since 1967
The majority of our subscriptions are due January 1, 2019. Check the label on the top left corner of the Pass Herald to see when you are due.
PHONE:___________________________________________
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PAYING HIGHEST PRICES
If you have a claim against this estate, you must file your claim by: February 17th, 2020.
send resume to: hr146@boilermakers.ca 'or more info, visit: boilermakers.ca/non-member
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NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND CLAIMANTS To arrange a free, discrete in-home visit
To arrange a free, discrete in-home visit t TIG 8&-%&34 t # 13&4463& WELDERS
Jerry Fisher Box 112 Blairmore, AB. T0K 0E0
Paying Cash For Coin Collecti Silver & Gold Coins, Royal Can. Mint Sets. If you do not file by the date Also above,Buying the estateGold property Jewelry can lawfully be distributed without regard to any claim you
PAYING HIGHEST PRICES call Kellie at 778-257-8647
touring the area!
sum refund. Take advantage of this offer. Apply NOW; quickest refund Nationwide: Expert help. 1-844-453-5372.
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Employment Opportunity IS NEWS YOUR GIG? Shootin' the Breeze has a full-time position open for a weekly newspaper reporter in Pincher Creek, AB. For job description and details, please contact Shannon; publisher@shootinthebreeze.ca.
Wednesday, January 15, 2020 - crowsnest PAss HerALD - 15
Jacquie From brings Indian Head Massage to clients DaviD SelleS Pass Herald Reporter
Last year, Jacquie From started a small aromatherapy business in the Crowsnest Pass. Following a successful start to it, From is now adding a new service to her business. From will now be offering Indian Head Massage as part of her
business. From says the massage can aid with multiple different things. “It helps migraine headaches and back pain, promotes hair growth, assists with detoxification, combats insomnia, relieves symptoms of anxiety and depression, renews energy levels and boosts memory capabili-
ties.” The way the massage aids in headaches and back pain is that it relieves tension in the upper back and head, which are often, causes of these symptoms. The massage also improves blood and oxygen flow, which help with the other symptoms From mentioned. From says the mas-
sage is a nice treatment for multiple reasons as well. “It's a nice treatment because it's portable, you don't have to come to me to do it. I can go to people who want it as well. It’s also nice because you don't get unclothed or lay down. You sit in a chair and basically it covers your shoulders up the neck and down the forearms.”
According to From, the massage lasts about 30 to 40 minutes. From says she’s adding this to her business because she wants to expand what she can offer to customers. “It's something extra to add to what I'm doing. There are also similar aspects to aromatherapy but it’s just the hands instead
of oils. It was just something extra for me to add to a service to provide to different people. From will also be training in Indian Foot Massage at the end of the month to further expand the services she offers. People interested in the services offered by From can contact her at 403-583-5003.
30 Years Experience Residential & Commercial Senior Discounts - Free Estimates Good Workmanship
Serving the Crowsnest Pass and area since 2005 Garry Friedley - Master Electrician Cell: 403.583.2231 • Res: 403.564.5158
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Call 403-563-8384 - availability & Prices
PRESTIGE CLEANERS RENT A CARPET CLEANER Clothing Alterations, Zippers, Coverall Rentals, Etc. & TUXEDO RENTALS
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taxi 403.583.4000
16 – CRoWsnest PAss HeRALD – Wednesday, January 15, 2020
Wayne Robutka retires after 45 years with community DaviD SelleS Pass Herald Reporter
Wayne Robutka has spent his entire life in the Crowsnest Pass and he’s seen a lot of change over that time. Robutka has worked for the municipality since 1984 when he started off on a garbage truck and then found other jobs in public works over the years before working his way up to operations manager in 2014. Robutka says he’s seen both positive and negative change in the Crowsnest Pass over his time here. “We've done some good projects. We've done the downtown Blairmore project and the downtown Coleman Revitalization for starters.” Robutka has also seen the population of the Pass fluctuate over the years and is happy to see the number of weekenders and out of town folks moving to the area re-
cently. “The more people we have in the area the better off we are,” said Robutka. With some of those newcomers entering the community, Robutka says he’s also encouraged by the new subdivisions that are in the Crowsnest Pass now. Robutka says he’d like to see some of the mines get going in the area, as he believes it will help grow the community. “If any of the three mines get going it will be helping out the community for sure.” Robutka says he’d like to see more money spent on trying to fix certain aspects of the community like sidewalks and just see overall improvements to the community in those aspects as well. Robutka hasn’t only seen positives over his time in the Pass though. “The loss of our industry really hurt us. We have to rely on people
more.” Robutka also mentioned a time where he wasn’t pleased with what happened to the fire department. “Another negative thing I didn't like, and it's nothing against the current council we have now, but in 2012 when management and council decided to force the volunteers of the fire department out. That was something I wasn't happy with. I was there for 32 years. They just didn't work with the fire department to make it better they made it worse. I work with the fire department we have here now and I have no problem with the guys here. It was just that time.” He also mentioned a previous event that was held in the community for many years. “The loss of Thunder in the Valley really hurt the community because we used to have around 20,000-30,000 people here
David Selles photo
Wayne Robutka is retiring after 36 years of working for the municipality. Robutka began working for the municipality in 1984 in public works and then took a management role with the municipality in 2014.
that weekend.” Overall, Robutka is pleased with where the Crowsnest Pass is headed and says that his time working for the municipality was positive and that anyone who ends up with a position in the municipality should be pleased. “People should be
happy if they get a job with the municipality because it's a good job in all aspects.” As for what Robutka has planned now, he’ll take some time off before beginning his next chapter. “I'm helping out the municipality right now until they get someone in
Friday, January 24th • 4 - 8:30 pm Saturday, January 25th • 4 - 8:30 pm 2020 • Year oF the rat Special Gifts • Special Buffet
Submitted photo
The friendly staff at Ben Wong Restaurant is celebrating Chinese New Year on Friday, January 24th and Saturday, January 25th and everyone is invited to join in the fun and delicious food. Surprise gifts will be handed out, incredible meals will be served, and all can benefit from the good fortune of taking part in this cherished traditional event.
• Szechuan Style BBQ Ribs • Sweet & Sour Pork • Sliced Beef with Black Bean Sauce and Vegetables • Special Fried Rice • Stir Fried Thin Noodles with Vegetables • Special Won Ton Soup • Delicious Salad Bar
• Chicken and Stir Fried Mixed Vegetables • Salt & Pepper Big Tiger Prawn & Squid • Sliced New York Steak with Mushroom & Onion and Black Pepper Sauce • Deep Fried Chicken Wings • Ginger Beef • Grilled Pork Dumpling and Spring Rolls • Shanghai Noodles w/BBQ Pork • BBQ Duck
Ben Wong Restaurant
13249-20th Ave., Blairmore 403-562-8388
ReseRvations Recommended
FREE DELIVERY
on orders over $130 before tax within Blairmore
10%OFF on Cash Pick-Up over $130 before tax
place. I'm going to go to Mexico for a month and a bit and then I'm going to start my own little consulting company so that if anyone needs my help here I will work with them. This is a really beautiful community and I hope in the future it continues to be a better place for people to come to.”
Pass Herald Staff Chinese New Year is celebrated internationally by billions of people, and now you can join in the fun again this year at Ben Wong Restaurant in Blairmore – now able to seat over 100 people. The Wongs are celebrating the occasion on Friday, January 24th and Saturday, January 25th with a dinner buffet from 4 to 8:30 p.m. They will be serving a special menu of delicious traditional foods,
including tiger prawns, squid, sliced New York steak, ginger beef, pork chops with black pepper sauce, and so much more. If that’s not enough to make your mouth water, the staff at Ben Wong Restaurant will also be giving out surprise gifts throughout the evening. According to Chinese mythology, 2020 is the Year of the Rat. Rat is the first in the 12-year-cycle of Chinese zodiac signs. People
born in the year of rat are generally born with the zodiac rat characteristics. They are believed to be very industrious and thrifty, diligent and positive. They love to enshrine and collect. Red is a traditional colour for Chinese New Year, indicating good fortune for all. Join the Wongs and their staff for these wonderful festivities and gain a little of that good New Year’s fortune for your own family.
Lunch Buffet Business Hours Sunday - 11 am - 9 pm Tuesday - Saturday - 11 am - 9:30 pm Dinner Buffet Monday - CLOSED Friday & Saturday • 5 pm - 8:30 pm Tuesday-Friday • 11 am - 2 pm