Crowsnest Pass Herald - September 4

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Crowsnest Pass

Herald Serving our communities since 1930

Eric Clarke from Canada’s U16 wins at World Lacrosse Championship Eric Clarke, a member of Canada’s U16 national team won gold at the IIJL World Championship held in New York, United States, from August 29 to September 2.

The team won all six games with a final victory against the United States. Clarke scored a pivotal goal in the third period to break a tie, which put the team ahead, heading into the fourth period with a final win of 10-8.

Clarke wishes to thank the community and everyone who sponsored him in the tournament leading to his incredible opportunity to represent the Crowsnest Pass and Canada on the world lacrosse stage.

Vol. 94 No. 33

September 4, 2024 $1.25

2 - CROWSNEST PASS HERALD - Wednesday, September 4, 2024

Someone is stealing rocks from the Frank Slide NICHOLAS L.M. ALLEN Pass Herald Reporter

Unprecedented Rock Removal at Frank Slide: Alberta Government Responds The Alberta government has been alerted to an unprecedented issue involving the unauthorized removal of rocks from the Frank Slide, a Provincial Historic Resource.

Carrie-Ann Lunde, Director of Communications for Arts, Culture and Status of Women at the Government of Alberta, confirmed that the Heritage Conservation Adviser for southern Alberta was first notified about the activity on March 15 by staff at the Frank Slide Interpretive Centre, with a follow-up email on July 23.

Additionally, Alberta Transportation in Pincher Creek reported on July 30 that

their road maintenance contractor, Volker Stevin, had observed recent rock removal, although no specifics were provided.

According to Lunde, rocks were taken from various locations along 21 Avenue in late 2023, near the access road to the Frank Slide Interpretive Centre in early March 2024, and at a pullout on Highway 3 on July 21. Witnesses observed individuals loading the rocks into pickup trucks and onto a flatbed trailer on separate occasions. However, further details were not available.

Occurrences of this nature are rare, and the removal of the rocks at this historic site is without precedent. Lunde explained that Alberta’s government, through its Heritage Conservation Advisory Services, typically provides technical conservation advice and coordinates approvals for interventions within Provincial Historic Resources. However, the recent rock removal was not an authorized intervention.

In response to these events, Lunde urged residents to report any further removal or defacement of rocks within the Frank Slide to the Frank Slide Interpretive Centre and local law enforcement. The government continues to monitor the site and encourages the public to be vigilant.

The unauthorized activities contravene Section 20(9) of the Historical Resources Act. Under Section 52 of the Act, penalties for such violations can include fines of up to $50,000, imprisonment for up to one year, or both.

Nicholas L.M. Allen photos

Rocks from the Frank Slide were removed from various locations along 21 Avenue in late 2023, near the access road to the Frank Slide Interpretive Centre in early March 2024, and at a pullout on Highway 3 on July 21.

Keep your eyes open for our

The Crowsnest Museum is located in downtown Coleman - 7701 18 Ave, Coleman, AB T0K 0M0 Open 7 Days a Week from 10 am - 5 pm

Hunting Supplement September 12, 2024!

Wednesday, September 4, 2024 - CROWSNEST PASS HERALD - 3 Frank Slide Template.qxp_Layout 1 2023-01-30 11:44 AM Page 1

Violation Statistics

POLICE BRIEFS

Traffic Collissions - 2 Speeding Tickets - 8 Moving Traffic Violations - 12 Child Welfare Act - 1 Mental Health Act - 1 911 Act - 1 Duisturbing the Peace - 2 Written Traffic Offenses - 1 Victim Services (Declined) - 2 Proactive Referral - 1

AUGUST 27 @ 11:43 AM - DOMESTIC VIOLENCE A female resident contacted the RCMP regarding Domestic Violence information. The officers explained how to make a safety plan. The RCMP would like to make the public aware of Clare’s Law. People can go on the internet and goggle Clare’s Law. If you input a person’s name you can find out if he/she has been charged with a previous domestic violence offence. There is no fee attached to the search. If the public has any questions on the Law, you can contact the detachment.

AUGUST 27 @ 11:44 AM - FAMILY MATTER Peaks to Pines called for assistance concerning the behaviour of a family member of a patient. RCMP attended and made sure the facility had a safety plan.

The family member had left by the time the RCMP had arrived.

AUGUST 27 @ 4:00 PM - MISSING CAMPERS RCMP were contacted from an out-of-town family who had not heard from their sons after they went camping up Highway 40. The young adults had not been in contact with their family for two days. RCMP and Conservation Officers found the two people, who didn’t realize that they did not have cell coverage.

AUGUST 28 @ 12:21 PM - DOMESTIC VIOLENCE RCMP attended a domestic disturbance at Circle K in Blairmore during a child exchange between two parents. No physical altercations took place, however, there was damage to property.

AUGUST 28 @ 2:00 PM - THEFT RCMP attended the Red Apple in Blairmore for a shoplifting incident of cat food and treats. The person was given a trespassing letter.

AUGUST 28 @ 2:38 PM - DOMESTIC VIOLENCE RCMP attended a domestic incident regarding a child custody agreement. RCMP facilitated the custody arrangement.

AUGUST 27 @ 2:43 PM - MISSING CAMPERS RCMP attended a call for a theft in a home. When they arrived, nothing had been disturbed. The incident fell under the Mental Health Act. A Registered Nurse was brought in for assistance.

AUGUST 28 @ 6:10 PM - SOS RCMP received an SOS activation up Kananaskis area near Oldman Falls. Two people found themselves not prepared for the weather. No hospital was needed and RCMP helped with transport to a motel.

Assault - 1 Theft Under $5000 - 2 Mischief - 1 Break and Enter - 1 Abandoned Vehile - 1 Animal Calls - 3 Breach of Peace - 1 Assistance to Public - 1 Wellbeing Check - 2

AUGUST 30 @ 1:30 AM - ESCAPE RCMP assisted a 911 call for a senior who escaped from Peaks for Pines. The patient who was followed by staff was picked up by the RCMP and brought back to the facility.

DIDYOU KNOW

In a deck of cards the king of hearts is the only king without a moustache.

HWY #3, Frank • 562-8043

AUGUST 30 @ 8:00 AM - RETRIEVED RCMP attended the Crowsnest Pass Hospital regarding the senior who escaped earlier from Peaks to Pines. The senior had an appointment at the hospital upon which he left without help. Peace officers located the senior at the 4-way stop in Blairmore and returned him to the hospital.

August 30 @ 9:00 am - BEAR 911 was called regarding a bear on the walking path. A cyclist came upon the bear scaring it away.

Signs have been posted in the area to keep the public aware.

AUGUST 30 @ 4:50 PM - FOUND? RCMP were contacted regarding a missing person from Victoria. The caller indicated that they recognized a missing person at the Chinook Campground.

RCMP attended and could not locate the person in question.

AUGUST 31 @ 2:30 PM - VERBAL ABUSE RCMP attended Peaks to Pines regarding a second call from a spouse of a patient who was being abusive to staff. The person refused to leave, yelling and swearing. The spouse removed the patient from Peaks to Pines, bringing them back to the home.

SEPTEMBER 1 @ 12:30 AM - INTOXICATION RCMP received a call about four intoxicated males yelling, screaming and berating patrons at the Cosmopolitan Inn in Blairmore. When police arrived, the males were gone.

SEPTEMBER 1 @ 3:30 PM - MENTAL HEALTH RCMP received a call from a person indicating that someone was breaking into their home. No evidence of foul play. The police gave a health referral to the family.

SEPTEMBER 1 @ 4:15 PM - FIGHT RCMP received a report from a mother who indicated her son’s friend had been punched in the nose.

The Victim did not want to proceed with charges.

SEPTEMBER 2 @ 12:15 PM - CRASH RCMP received an iPhone alert of a car crash.

There were no gps coordinates and no vehicle observed throughout the community.

AUGUST 29 @ 10:30 PM - MENTAL HEALTH RCMP received a 911 from an individual with dementia. The person was confrontational with their spouse, whom they didn’t recognize and thought it was someone from years in the past. EMS was contacted and the person was taken to the hospital.

SEPTEMBER 2 @ 1:30 PM - TRESPASSING RCMP received a complaint regarding a neighbour dispute. One person was upset that the neighbour was mowing the lawn on their side of the fence. No weapons or drugs on site. The issue was referred to local by-law officers.

AUGUST 29 @ 11:15 PM - FEMALES FIGHTING RCMP were called to a local bar for two females fighting. When police arrived, the females were gone.

SEPTEMBER 3 @ 10:30 AM - NEIGHBOUR ISSUE RCMP were called to a neighbour dispute regarding yelling and harassment. RCMP talked to the person.

You can pick up the Pass Herald at: Bellevue - Crockets Trading Company Blairmore - Pharmasave, IDA, IGA, The Pantry and Circle K Coleman - Remedy’s RX and Happy Mart NOTICE:

If you have a digital subscription and your paper stops coming into your e-mail, your subscription is due.

4 - CROWSNEST PASS HERALD - Wednesday, September 4, 2024

NOTICE OF DEVELOPMENT PERMIT

NOTICE OF DEVELOPMENT PERMIT

LAND USE BYLAW No. 1165-2023

LAND USE BYLAW No. 1165-2023

The Development Authority of the Municipality of Crowsnest Pass recently approved the following Permitted Development Application(s):

The Development Authority of the Municipality of Crowsnest Pass recently approved the following Discretionary or Development Application(s) with Variances:

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DP2024-224 – 8617 19 Avenue, Coleman (Lot 29 Block 29 Plan 8210726) For existing “Accessory Buildings or Uses up to 72.8m2” (Shed 8.36m2 and 7.44m2) (permitted use) DP2024-234 – 1517 130 Street, Blairmore (Lot 14 Block 1 Plan 1341LK) For an existing “Accessory Building or Use up to 72.8m2” (Shed 1 – 14.85m2 Shed 2 – 11.89m) (permitted use)

The Development Authority of the Municipality of Crowsnest Pass recently approved the following Discretionary or Development Application(s) with Variances: •

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DP2024-169 - 8617 16 Avenue, Coleman (Lot N/A Block N/A Plan N/A) For a “Temporary Storage Yard” including gravel, sand and topsoil) (discretionary use) for two years.

DP2024-225 – 22713 10 Avenue, Hillcrest (Lot 6 Block 37 Plan 1429LK) For existing “Accessory Buildings up to 72.8m2” (Shed 1 - 13.89m2, Shed 28.41m2 with a 23% variance to the side yard setback, Shed 3- 8.41m2 with a 23% variance to the side yard setback and a 20% variance to the rear yard setback) (permitted use).

DP2024-235 - 1506 130 Street, Blairmore (Lot 8 Block 1 Plan 1341LK) For an existing “Accessory Building or Use up to 72.8m²” (Shed 1 - 8.93m²) with a 28% variance to the west side yard setback (Permitted use) and For an existing “Accessory Building or Use up to 72.8m²”(Shed 2 - 4.47m²) with a 62% variance to the east side yard setback (Permitted use) DP2024-242 - 6717 17 Avenue, Coleman (Lot 10 Block J Plan 2446AA) For two existing “Accessory Buildings or Uses up to 72.8 m²” (shed - 3.57 m² and shed - 6.85m² ) (Permitted use) with variances to the rear and side yard setbacks.

DP2024-250 - 2934 222 Street, Bellevue (Lot 5 Block 1 Plan 7711490) For an existing “Accessory Building or Use up to 72.8m2” (hot tub gazebo with ground level deck – combined area 16m²) (permitted use) with a 100% variance to the rear and west side yard setbacks.

DP2024-256 - 1746 E. Hillcrest Drive, Hillcrest (Lot 1 Block 1 Plan 0912678) For an existing “Accessory Building or Use up to 95.2m2” prior to the establishment of the principal use (Shed - 8.93m2) (discretionary use) DP2024-276 - N/A, Bellevue (Passburg) (Lot 17 Block 19 Plan 1411336) For a “Manufactured Home” (discretionary use)

Any persons claiming to be adversely affected by the above Discretionary Development Permits or Variances may file an appeal by September 19, 2024, to SUBDIVISION AND DEVELOPMENT APPEAL BOARD (SDAB) through our Municipal online form or to the or the Land and PROPERTY RIGHTS TRIBUNAL, as may be applicable.

Subdivision and Development Appeal Board: Online Form Submission: https://portal.laserfiche.ca/ o8468/forms/Development_Appeal Fee of $400.00 must be paid with the appeal (will be contacted for payment once the form is sent).

Land and Property Rights Tribunal: 1229-91 Street SW Edmonton AB T6X 1E9 Development Officer Municipality of Crowsnest Pass Phone: 403 562-8833 Email: development@crowsnestpass.com

DP2024-294 - 10509 20 Avenue, Blairmore (Lot 5, Block H, Plan 2411380) A. A Mixed-Use Development (71,000ft² to 92,000ft²) consisting of:

Permitted uses: Accessory Building or Use up to 18.6m² (200ft²), Animal Care Service Facility (Small), Arts and Crafts Studio, Financial Institution, Food and/or Beverage Service, Mixed-Use Development, Office, Personal Service, Recreational Facility (Indoor - Small), Retail Store (Small), Retail Store (Large), Medical and/or Dental Clinic, Cannabis Retail Sales, Sign Types: A-board, Canopy, Fascia and Wall, Freestanding, Murals, Portable, Projecting, Subdivision or Development Marketing, and: Discretionary Uses: Accessory Building or Use over 18.6m² (200ft²), Community Facility, Cultural Establishment, Drive-In Food Service, Entertainment Establishment.

B.Development Permit approval is requested for: A Comprehensive Site Development Plan for the overall development - all uses (permitted and discretionary), all phases, landscaping, private utilities, site access, parking and loading areas, sidewalks, sign types, location of free-standing signs, yard setbacks, building height, lighting, relevant development standards, and the range of schematic design theme options for building elevations, exterior finishing, and signs; and Phase 1 construction (2024-2025): pads G.1 to G.3 (future building 3,300ft²), pads G.4 to G.6 (future building 3,300ft²), and pads H.1, H.2 and I (total future building 5,385ft²), including asphalt paved site access off 107 Street and one on 20 Ave, asphalt paved parking and loading areas, concrete sidewalks, accessory structures for waste & recycling, landscaping, lighting, bike parking, and signs; and Provided that the developer adheres to the approved Comprehensive Site Development Plan, approval of the Phase 1 buildings on pads G.1 to G.3 (future tenant), pads G.4 to G.6 (future tenant), pad H.1 (future tenant), pad H.2 (future tenant), and pad I (Drive-in Food Service), including the selection of final elevations, exterior finishing, and signs, is delegated to the Development Officer; and Provided that the developer adheres to the approved Comprehensive Site Development Plan, approval of Future Phase (2026 to 2028) construction of pads and buildings on pads A (23,000ft² to 26,000ft² Retail Store Large - Grocery Store), B (4,000ft² to 5,000ft² – future tenant), C (4,000ft² to 5,000ft² – future tenant), D (9,000ft² to 11,000ft² – future tenant), E (4,000ft² to 6,000ft² – future tenant), and F [up to 22,000ft² – future tenant – two-storey 14m (45.9ft) height], including a third asphalt paved site access (20 Ave), asphalt paved parking and loading areas, concrete sidewalks, accessory structures for waste & recycling, landscaping, lighting, bike parking, and the selection of final elevations, exterior finishing, and signs, is delegated to the Development Officer.

Any changes from the Comprehensive Site Development Plan shall require a new development permit application(s) for review by the Municipal Planning Commission.

Any persons claiming to be adversely affected by the above Discretionary Development Permits or Variances may file an appeal by September 19, 2024, to SUBDIVISION AND DEVELOPMENT APPEAL BOARD (SDAB) through our Municipal online form or to the or the Land and PROPERTY RIGHTS TRIBUNAL, as may be applicable.

TRAFFIC FOCUS SCHOOL BUS SAFETY Please be extra cautious when passing kids walking or biking and NEVER pass a school bus that has its lights flashing and stop sign extended!! This means that kids are getting on or off the bus and could be crossing the road in front of the bus.

In order to ensure the safety of passengers getting on and off the bus, our CPOs will be proactively targeting individuals who disregard flashing school bus lights and pass when they are activated. This will ensure the safety of the passengers.

BYLAW FOCUS WILDLIFE ATTRACTANTS CNP Protective Services will be proactively patrolling to target the placing and storage of wildlife attractants, including garbage and refuse found on properties. We would like to remind the public to please ensure they are taking proactive measures to ensure their yards are free of refuse or household rubbish to prevent being a wildlife attractant, particularly as bears are looking for extra food sources in the coming weeks.

To view a complete list of homeowner responsibilities regarding wildlife attractants and penalties for contravention of such, please see Community Standards Bylaw 1045, 2020. at www.crowsnestpass.com/municipal-government/ council/bylaws

COMMUNITY CLEANUP COMMUNITY CLEAN-UP - September 20 & 21 Residents can drop off household items as well as large items such as furniture, tires, fence boards, or appliances; fridges and freezers containing Freon will be charged a $30.00 fee that must be purchased in advance at the Municipal Office prior to bringing to the site. For more information, please call 403-562-8833.

Community Clean-up is not intended for commercial or construction materials or grass clippings; toxic materials including oil, paint, and electronics will not be accepted, (but they can be brought to the Toxic Round-up)

September 20 from 8:00am – 3:00pm September 21 from 8:00am -4:00pm

If you have any questions regarding the types of items that will be accepted at the Community Clean-up, please phone the Operations Department at 403-563-2220.

TOXIC ROUND-UP – September 21 The Municipality coordinates with the Alberta Recycling Management Authority to bring Toxic and E-Waste Roundup to the community.

Bring your old computers, TVs, paint, oil, car (lead acid) batteries, brake and transmission fluid, printers, computer cables, servers, keyboards, and other household hazardous materials. Visit www.albertarecycling.ca for a complete list of accepted items.

September 21 | 10:00am - 2:00pm Crowsnest Sports Complex 8702 - 22 Avenue, Coleman

HATE SOCIAL MEDIA? GET IN THE LOOP

Subdivision and Development Appeal Board: Online Form Submission: https://portal.laserfiche.ca/o8468/ forms/Development_Appeal Fee of $400.00 must be paid with the appeal (will be contacted for payment once the form is sent).

Land and Property Rights Tribunal: 1229-91 Street SW Edmonton AB T6X 1E9 Development Officer Municipality of Crowsnest Pass Phone: 403 562-8833 Email: development@crowsnestpass.com

8502 - 19 Avenue, Coleman Box 600, Crowsnest Pass, AB, T0K 0E0 ph: 403-562-8833 e: reception@crowsnestpass.com www.crowsnestpass.com After Hours Public Works Emergencies: 403-562-2021

Wednesday, September 4, 2024 - CROWSNEST PASS HERALD - 5

Backpacks donated to schools throughout the Pass and Elk Valley LISA SYGUTEK Pass Herald

After 13 years the Women of Steel are ready to deliver 96 backpacks to students in need, so they have everything they require to start the year On August 28th, the ‘Women of Steel’ geared up for their annual donation of backpacks and supplies to the Crowsnest Pass schools.

Sarah Thompson, Women of Steel Co-Chair, said that this initiative by the United Steel Workers Local 9346 works like a “well-oiled machine”.

This is the 13th year that the Women of Steel Committee out of Sparwood has spearheaded this initiative. “We provided 96 backpacks full of all the needed school supplies to kids in the Crowsnest Pass, Fernie, Sparwood, Elkford, and Jaffray this year. All the money is fundraised for this campaign. It cost us over $10,000 to run this program this year”, explained Thompson.

They host barbecues at the bus stop where the Elkview employees go on and off shift. They feed them supper, including burgers, chips and pop.

“Fundraising activities include having Bus Stop BBQ’s in June at the Elkview Bus Stop feeding, miners, staff, and contractors supper as they come onto night shift and off of day shift. We do 4 BBQ’s in June and get an amazing amount of support. Thank you to all who came for a burger to support this worthy cause. We also have different businesses and unions donate money for this cause including USW Locals in Elkford, Cranbrook, and Trail, as well as A Crew Social Club, Teck

www.lrsd.ca hello@lrsd.ab.ca

School begins Tuesday, September 3 Livingstone School (K-12) 403-628-3897 www.livingstoneschool.ca

Horace Allen School (K-3) 403-563-3998 www.horaceallenschool.ca

Isabelle Sellon School (4-6) 403-562-8816 www.isabellesellonschool.ca

Crowsnest Consolidated High School (7-12) 403-563-5651

www.crowsnesthighschool.ca

Watch for students near buses and crossing roads.

Do NOT pass a school bus from either direction when red lights flashing.

Lisa Sygutek photo

From left to right: Horace Allen School administrative assistant Amber Stafford, Women of Steel co-chair Jenn Riley, Allison Thompson, Women of Steel, and Sarah Thompson, Women of Steel co-chair in front of the donated backpacks and supplies for the schools in the Crowsnest Pass.

Corporate and Maxam.”

Thompson noted that over the years the committee has provided over 1,000 kids with everything they need to get back to school. Our mandate is to have, “all kids equal on the first day,” said Thompson.

“While we don’t get to all the kids who may need it, we feel and are told that we are getting most, and this program has been very successful over the years.’

“As inflation has increased, things are getting more expensive, and families are struggling more so now than ever. As a Union, we are happy we can help our communities that we live and work in”.

According to Thompson, all the students and families remain anonymous. “We do not know who any of them are. We talk to the Sparwood food bank, Fernie Women’s Resource Centre, and school administration in the Crowsnest Pass to determine the need. We never meet or publicize the names or identities of the kids or their families, we are just given numbers for how many boys and how many girls in each grade for each school that need a backpack. We get the class school supplies list for each grade from each school and fill up the backpacks accordingly. The full packs are then distributed back to the food banks, the Women’s Resource Centres, and schools for distribution to each child”.

The group said they are always looking for donations of supplies, including backpacks, paper and binders. For specialty items, they prefer to fill out the school list themselves.

The Women of Steel can be contacted at the Steelworker office in Sparwood, the phone number there is (250) 425-0131.

6 - CROWSNEST PASS HERALD - Wednesday, September 4, 2024

Herald Editorial LISA SYGUTEK A little bit of this and that in my editorial this week!

First, on Sunday, I was in Calgary at Heritage Park when I was stung by a wasp. I have never been stung by either a wasp or a bee before and was shocked at how much it hurt.

That night the itch started. I was stung on the fleshy part of my arm just above my elbow. Throughout the night my arm felt warm, itchy and sore. When I woke on Monday morning, my arm was visibly swollen and throbbing.

I rarely use Google MD but, in this situation, I figured I’d check it out. To my surprise it said I should go to emergency.

I felt a bit silly going to the hospital for a wasp sting, but off I went. When I got to the ER, which was very quiet, I met with the doctor who took one look and said I needed an antibiotic and a cream. The wasp had given me an infection. I had no idea you could get an infection from a wasp sting, let alone need antibiotics.

From what I understand there is an issue with wasps right now everywhere in Alberta. Some say it is because of the wildfires forcing them out of the forest and another said it’s a five-year cycle. Either way it’s being referred to as ‘waspageddon”.

The hospital informed me that they have seen several people in the ER and the pharmacist said she is averaging at least three prescriptions a day for these stings.

So, my advice, if you get stung, and it gets abnormally red and swollen, see the doctor.

The second topic I want to talk about is about policing. There are rumours around that the Provincial Government is looking to replace the RCMP in this province with a new “independent agency police service”.

Earlier this year, the Alberta Government introduced Bill 11, establishing a new independent agency police service in Alberta. This decision was made without consulting Albertans, municipalities, or existing law enforcement agencies and follows the unsuccessful Alberta Provincial Police initiative.

The National Police Federation released the results of their first survey since the announcement of the Independent Alberta Police Service. Conducted by the independent research firm Polara Strategic Insights in June 2024, this survey is consistent with previous polling, showing a strong support for Alberta RCMP members. The new research also indicates a lack of awareness and support for a new independent police service.

Key findings from the survey: • 84% of respondents believe there are more pressing priorities in Alberta than changing the local policing structure.

• 87% of respondents agree that before any changes to municipal policing, there needs to be detailed accounting of costs and impacts on service levels.

• 86% of respondents want to retain the RCMP, with some local improvements.

• 77% of respondents, in RCMP-served communities, are satisfied with their current policing service.

I must ask why the Provincial Government is even looking at this initiative? We have far more pressing matters to deal with within this province, from housing shortages to high rental rates to extreme stress in our medical system. From my experiences with our local RCMP Detachment, I think they are fantastic. The issue isn’t the police, it’s the policies of the Federal Government not holding criminals to account.

The police are arresting them, the courts are the ones letting them out. Changing out our Provincial police force won’t fix this, a change in Federal Government is the answer!

Herald “Letters to the Editor” Policy

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 600 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 libellous opinions. Should a litigation result from your letter, you as the writer are responsible but so is this newspaper as the publisher.

Back to School: Safety First!

ALBERTA HEALTH SERVICES Back-to-school is right around the corner for many families across the province. Parents and caregivers are encouraged to talk with their kids and teens about active and safe ways to travel to school. Active travel can boost physical health, build independence and encourage kids and teens to spend time outside.

Here are some practical ideas to get kids and teens safely active this school year.

Help your child plan for active travel: Talk with your child or teen about ways they can walk or wheel to school such as riding a bike, scooter or skateboard. For younger children, map out the route and practice it together. For older children and teens, help them think through the details, such as the route they’ll use, and the time it will take to get there. They may need your advice to avoid busy, high-speed roads.

Keep safety top-of-mind: Talk with your child or teen about gear, such as bright reflective clothing, that will help them stay safe when they’re wheeling to school. Help them make sure their helmet fits properly. For a how-to checklist, go to MyHealth.Alberta.ca and search “bike helmet yes test.” Talk with your child or teen about staying alert when walking or wheeling to school. Remind them to put their phones and ear buds away so they can be aware of what is going on around them.

Remember to role model safe active travel. For example, if you are walking to school with your child, cross the road only at marked intersections or crossings. Explain traffic signs and lights. If you are biking to school together, be sure to wear your helmet too.

Support safe active travel in your community: Find out if there are active travel groups or events at your local school, such as clubs or walking school buses. Help your child connect with other kids who walk or wheel to school. It can be motivating, social and fun for them to travel together.

Listen to your teen’s ideas about how to make ac-

tive travel more appealing. For example, help them advocate for more pathways or bike, scooter, or skateboard storage racks in public places, or take part in community clean-ups or outdoor art projects.

School bus stop safety tips: Make sure your child understands these pedestrian safety rules for crossing the road safely: • Cross the road at marked crosswalks.

• If there isn’t a crosswalk, cross at a corner of the road. If there isn’t a corner (like in a very small town), show your child the safest way to cross the road to get to the bus stop.

• Don’t cross the road during a red light.

• If your child needs to cross in front of the bus, make sure they wait until the bus driver sees them.

• Walk on the sidewalk. If there isn’t a sidewalk, walk on left side of the road, facing traffic.

• Teach your child to point, pause, and proceed before they cross the road.

• Point at the crosswalk with your arm to tell drivers that you’re ready to cross.

• Pause to look for traffic. Look in all directions.

Make eye contact with drivers and wait until all vehicles have come to a full stop.

• Proceed across the street with your arm out. Look in both directions as you cross to make sure it’s safe.

To get to the bus stop safely, also teach your child to: • be at the bus stop at least 5 minutes early • walk (don’t run) to the bus • not use a mobile device (like a cell phone or tablet) or other distracting things until they’re in a safe place It’s a good idea to walk the bus route with your child until they know how to get to the bus stop safely.

If you have young children, always walk them to and from the bus stop. If you can’t walk with your child, have another adult walk with them.

Alberta Health Services encourages all Albertans to live a healthy life. These weekly Wellness Articles are created by a team of healthcare professionals from AHS in collaboration with provincial healthcare experts in Alberta and content from myhealth.alberta.ca.

Our experts ensure this information is factual, current, and written for Albertans.

Lisa Sygutek Owner/Publisher Tina Pedersen Advertising Nick Allen Community Reporter Devon Brady Community Reporter John Kinnear Feature Reporter Published every Wednesday Subscription Rates (includes GST): Single Copy: $1.25 Annual Subscriptions:

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Wednesday, September 4, 2024 - CROWSNEST PASS HERALD - 7

Future of AHS and hospitals BRENT MCKAY St. Albert Gazette - LJI

Premier Smith reveals plans to transfer hospitals away from AHS At a UCP town hall event in Drayton Valley, Premier Danielle Smith revealed the next phases of her government’s restructuring of health care in Alberta, including plans to remove Alberta Health Services (AHS) as the operator of some hospitals and turn facilities over to other operators like Catholic health care provider Covenant Health.

The Alberta government is currently setting up a structure where the government retains ownership of facilities and leases them to AHS and is “prepared to also take away their authority to operate hospitals as well,” Smith said at the town hall on Aug. 17.

“Because if our operator isn’t performing the services we need them to we’re going to take (the hospital) back,” Smith said.

“The next phase is to see how many of those hospitals that AHS currently operates that we can retake ownership over. We can’t do it for all of them.”

Smith said this strategy will improve the delivery of health care and help eliminate service disruptions in rural hospitals by introducing two incentives into the existing system — competition and fear.

“When you’re dealing with a monopoly, and they believe that they can deliver any type of care, and there are no consequences, they’re going to continue to deliver bad service. And competition is one option.

That’s why we’re offering chartered surgical centres and why we’re offering Covenant,” Smith said.

“But the other is the fear of having it taken away.

That is going to be a very powerful competitive incentive for the managers to say, ‘Oh my goodness, if we continue to deliver terrible care in Drayton Valley, then somebody else is going to be chosen for the operator.’”

In La Crete, Smith said the government is already moving the hospital authority over to Covenant Health.

She told the town hall that Covenant Health “has never closed down rural hospitals . . . and it may well be that we just need different operators in the smaller communities so that we can get back to delivering that level of care.”

These changes will be slow, Smith said, and the government will campaign to get the “authority from Albertans to go forward and make these changes.”

Change for the sake of change Lorian Hardcastle, associate professor in the faculty of law in the Cumming School of Medicine at the University of Calgary, said changing hospital administrators would come with substantial investments of time and money, and that it doesn’t address key issues within the health care system which cause temporary closures.

“It seems to be more of what we’ve already seen, which is change for the sake of change, and not change with a view to improving access or improving quality,” Hardcastle said.

“AHS has been running these facilities for a long time and has that expertise. For Covenant to take over those facilities is going to take time. It’s going to take money. And it’s not clear what the payoff is. There may also be some providers who aren’t interested in continuing to work at a facility if Covenant takes it over, and so it’s not clear that this is going to help recruitment and retention, and it might make it worse”.

Cont’d on page 8

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Solid, straight cinder block building built in 1985. ormerly, a small convenience store. Building now used as a workshop and front is leased to Canada Post.

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IRONSTONE 56

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Beautiful, freshly painted bungalow at Ironstone Lookout . Main floor laundry. Two bedrooms and two bathrooms on the main level with additional two bedrooms and bathroom on lower level. Vaulted ceilings and open floor plan, with nice integration of all the living areas. Fine woodwork and luxurious counter tops upstairs and down. $444,000 CALL JOHN MLS

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Sheltered location. 1965 home was moved onto a newer concrete walkout basement. Original hardwood flooring on main level. Inviting open floor plan.

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BLAIRMORE LOT

Discover the charm of this historic property located in downtown Coleman. Exceptional rock and brick craftsmanship, well preserved with impeccable straight lines. Property showcases the rich history of the area. Offers a main floor adorned with high ceilings, towering windows that flood the space with natural light, and captivating wood floors. Front, side, and back access.

Opportunity to be a part of Coleman’s legacy. Upper floor, has own access with residential use. Two land titles. $450,000 CALL JOHN MLS Back lane access.

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COLEMAN

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Great 2 bedroom weekend or retirement property. Nice quiet location with big yard.

BELLEVUE FLY SHOP High traffic prime commercial business in Crowsnest Pass, along busy Highway 3. This fully serviced property and the adjacent lot, also for sale, has East and West bound traffic access. Located on first approach to Crowsnest Pass. Currently occupied as a successful Fly-Fishing shop,

has an acute shortage of residential accommodations. This is a great opportunity to get into this market. $299,000 CALL JOHN MLS

Rare opportunity to acquire a level lot in Blairmore which may be suitable for a modular home. This lot is close to the municipal services. Lot is 39’ x 115’ with back lane access. Close to medical services and shopping. Beautiful walking trail just outside the front door.

Crowsnest River nearby. $119,000 CALL JOHN MLS

LUNDBRECK

Lundbreck, with attached double car garage. Situated on a very large, double lot.

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frontage. Main level open floor plan with 2 bedrooms and 2 bathrooms. Main floor laundry. Very bright with large windows with beautiful mountain views. The lower level has a large media room, two bedrooms and a bathroom. Attached double car garage with a spacious driveway. Ironstone Lookout provides high quality One of 4 final units to be built at craftmanship in a beautiful Ironstone Lookout. Bungalow style mountain home. $499,900 semidetached home with very large CALL JOHN MLS

Very affordable, modern building on main street Bellevue.

Recently rezoned to multiple residential zoning, can now be converted to apartments. Large lot adjacent to the building, allows for additional development on this property. There is also a shop area with a 10’ door at the rear. The street in front of the building, including pavement and underground

services, are being revitalized this summer. Spectacular mountain views in very active community. $459,000 CALL JOHN MLS

COLEMAN LAND promising piece of development land.

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8 - CROWSNEST PASS HERALD - Wednesday, September 4, 2024

Future of AHS and hospitals cont’d from page 7 Hardcastle said the claim that Covenant Health would be better suited to run rural hospitals is unfounded, and that the premier needs to provide a rationale for why changing operators would have an effect on the number of rural doctors in a community or their availability to work.

“That’s just something that she’s made up as a theory, and there’s no factual support for that. The fact that Covenant hasn’t had any ER closures in facilities they run doesn’t mean they wouldn’t have closures if they ran the same facilities that AHS runs,” she said.

Public notices from Covenant Health show there have been multiple temporary emergency department closures at its facilities in Bonnyville and Killam due to staffing shortages.

Transferring hospitals to a religious facility operator would also create issues around access to forms of care it does not permit to be performed, Hardcastle said.

Covenant does not allow staff to provide emergency contraceptives, abortion, medical assistance in dying, and other medical procedures.

Dr. Luanne Metz, Alberta NDP health critic, said the loss of these services in hospitals would create major challenges in rural Alberta.

“It will be devastating for these communities if they lose access to a whole avenue of health care that is provided to other Albertans, and that may be reproductive health care as well as medical assistance in dying, which (Covenant) also does not support,” she said.

Metz said the province’s ongoing health care changes have resulted in budget cuts for AHS that impact the services it needs to provide, while more money is going to restructuring and consultants. The government are the ones “dictating what AHS can do . . . they’re putting all the blame on AHS when, in fact, they’re the ones pulling the puppet strings,” she said.

Talk of changing hospital operators risks adding “another layer of instability” that would make attracting doctors and nurses more difficult and indicates plans for further privatization of the public health system, Metz said.

“I really think that this is part of our move towards privatization. I don’t think it’s really just a story about Covenant versus AHS. It’s a way of introducing the concept

Sunday

1

Hours

Monday

2

LABOUR DAY

Monday-Friday 8:30-4:00

(Closed)

*Closed for lunch between 12:00-1:00*

Tuesday

3

10:00-11:30 Reminiscing Group 2:00-3:30 Drop-in Open Activities (you choose!)

Labor Day

8

Our programs are open to older adults +55 Drop-in $10/day (cash or monthly invoice available)

9

10:00-11:30 Cards & Table Games 2:00-3:30 Bingo & Brain Games

10

10:00-11:30 Reminiscing Group 2:00-3:30 Drop-in Open Activities (you choose!)

of bringing in other providers,” she said.

Metz also challenged the impact of existing private health care initiatives in Alberta.

“When (Smith) talks about chartered surgical facilities, they have not helped.

We’ve seen the numbers months ago showing that we’re not doing more surgeries.

And the whole result of this is also going to make rural health care worse, because it’s the most challenging kind of health care to provide.”

A spokesperson for the office of the Minister of Health said in an email that the work to refocus Alberta’s health care system includes transitioning Alberta Health Services, over time, to deliver only acute care services.

“Both Alberta Health Services and Covenant Health will continue to play key roles in health care service delivery, providing acute care and continuing care services to Albertans. Alberta’s government is committed to ensuring key health partnerships continue, providing Albertans with the best care possible.”

Remember that time when Amazon sponsored your church fundraiser?

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Remember when Google provided free pizza to your child’s soccer team when they won the championship?

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They need our support, now more than ever.

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Wednesday

4

10:00-11:30 Crafts & Coffee 1:00-3:30 Yard Games & Music Social 10:00-11:30 Crafts & Coffee

11

1:00-3:30 Yard Games & Music Social

Thursday

5

9:00-11:00 Seated Exercises

Friday 10:00-11:30 Coffee Social

6

Saturday

7

Closed @ 12:00pm 2:00-3:30 Art Thursdays Group

12

9:00-11:00 Seated Exercises

10:00-11:30 Coffee Social

13

14

20

21

Closed @ 12:00pm 2:00-3:30 Art Thursdays Group

Grandparents Day

15

16

10:00-11:30 Cards & Table Games 2:00-3:30 Bingo & Brain Games

17

10:00-11:30 Reminiscing Group 2:00-3:30 Drop-in Open Activities (you choose!)

22

23

10:00-11:30 Cards & Table Games 2:00-3:30 Bingo & Brain Games

18

1:00-3:30 Yard Games & Music Social

19

9:00-11:00 Seated Exercises

10:00-11:30 Coffee Social

Closed @ 12:00pm 2:00-3:30 Art Thursdays Group Oktoberfest Begins

24

10:00-11:30 Reminiscing Group 2:00-3:30 Drop-in Open Activities (you choose!)

10:00-11:30 Crafts & Coffee

10:00-11:30 Crafts & Coffee

25

1:00-3:30 Yard Games & Music Social

26

9:00-11:00 Seated Exercises

10:00-11:30 Coffee Social

27

Closed @ 12:00pm 2:00-3:30 Art Thursdays Group

Autumn Begins

29

30

10:00-11:30 Cards & Table Games 2:00-3:30 Bingo & Brain Games

CARTWRIGHT CARES ADULT DAY PROGRAM

7720 17 Avenue Downtown Coleman - QUESTIONS? Please call 403-563-9260

28

Wednesday, September 4, 2023 - CROWSNEST PASS HERALD - 9

Municipal Public Hearing gets heated NICHOLAS L.M. ALLEN Pass Herald Reporter

Residents Voice Concerns at Public Hearing on Comprehensive Ski Village Rezoning During the public hearing for the proposed rezoning of land in the Comprehensive Ski Village from recreation and open space to urban tourism accommodation and recreation, a variety of opinions were voiced. The amendment in question was Bylaw 1187-2024, which aimed to rezone the land described as Plan 0812254, Block 1, Lot 551MR. Submissions both for and against the bylaw were received and included in the council’s package.

Marilyn Bigcharles, a resident of Southmore in the Comprehensive Ski Village, spoke at the hearing and was adamantly opposed to the rezoning, particularly in regard to the development proposed for Lot 51.

Bigcharles highlighted concerns about the steepness and shape of the lot, asserting that “this lot poses many dangers… it is so dangerously steep that only deer can use it, and it should be marked as an environmental reserve because of its danger.”

She also expressed frustration with how the rezoning process had been handled, claiming that “this Council did not listen to the 41 people that represented the letters that were sent.”

According to Bigcharles, the council members who supported the rezoning “did not take in the best interest of the people of this community.”

Bigcharles raised specific concerns about the potential impact on her neighbourhood, particularly the noise and traffic that the proposed development would bring. She noted that in similar tourist homes, there have already been disturbances.

“On August 10th of this year, Brock had in his little tourist home people out talking away that we could hear from our place till 12:30 a.m.,” said Bigcharles.

In addition to the safety and noise concerns, Bigcharles questioned the integrity of the re-zoning process, particularly the potential conflicts of interest among council members. She pointed out that “two offers to purchase were talked about on Lot 50 MR in Southmore and Lot 49, which is not MR, and both of those offers were defeated. Quite likely the very same person trying to buy more of the municipal reserve for his purpose and his opportunity.”

While numerous others spoke out against the bylaw at the council meeting, there were also speakers for the rezoning. Danielle Self presented herself as a proponent of the rezoning, arguing that the development would benefit the community.

She stated, “I think that by allowing us to go forward, it will bring a lot of wealth into the community, it will bring a lot of opportunity to the businesses and the locals, and it will also allow for the opportunity for visitors to be able to come to this area and enjoy this area.”

Regarding the impact on green space, Bigcharles warned that “children would have no safe place to play on but will have to go to playgrounds elsewhere” due to the loss of green space in the area. She also criticized the proposed dwellings, describing them as “obviously they’re not handicapped and wheelchair friendly.”

Bigcharles addressed potential conflicts of interest, requesting that the mayor

“confirm and give proper evidence that there [are] no business dealings with his family’s business, Home Hardware, and the developer.”

She suggested that if such a conflict existed, “then we expect the mayor to recuse himself from all votes on bylaw 1197-2024.”

She also questioned the impartiality of local reporting claiming the paper has ties to the developer, noting that the reporter “does not mention Southmore CSV at all” in coverage of relevant meetings.

In conclusion, Bigcharles urged the council to reject the rezoning proposal, stating, “This lot 51 belongs to the neighbourhood of Southmore CSV. This commercial business in urban tourism accommodation does not belong there.” She appealed to the developers to withdraw their proposal, suggesting that doing so would “gain you much credibility in the community” and “restore your presence and business reputation of being home builders.”

Brock Fulker, a Partner at Tanrock Homes, defended the project. Fulker addressed concerns raised by community members, emphasizing that the development is not driven by personal gain but by a belief in the potential of the Crowsnest Pass.

“This project is about helping the community thrive and grow,” Fulker said, “I moved my family here because I believe in what this area has to offer, and I want others to have the same opportunities.”

Fulker clarified that the initial phase of the development will include six lots designated for short-term rentals, specifically designed for couples or small families. He assured the public that these units would have strict guidelines to minimize any disruption to the community, emphasizing that the rentals would offer a resort-like experience with features such as saunas and hot tubs.

In response to previous feedback, Fulker also announced that three additional units would be allocated for long-term rentals, addressing the community’s need for more permanent housing options. He explained that the project would proceed in phases to ensure a smooth rollout and to allow for adjustments based on community feedback.

Sustainability and property maintenance are central to the development’s design, with plans to incorporate solar panels, rain barrels, and fully landscaped properties, all managed by a professional property management group. Fulker also highlighted the steps taken to ensure the stability and safety of the homes, including consultations with soil and structural engineers.

To conclude his remarks, Fulker presented a video intended to provide a clearer vision of the project’s impact, hoping to further align the development with the community’s expectations.

After the public hearing, the matter went through second and third readings with each of the councillors and the mayor speaking to the issue.

Council members debated the potential impact of the development on local traffic, utilities and the community’s character. According to CAO Patrick Thomas, the development plan includes provisions for adequate off-street parking and is in preliminary stages of utility discussions, including water, wastewater, and energy services. A geotechnical investigation is also underway to ensure the site’s suitability for construction.

Councillor Glen Girhiny expressed concern that the rezoning, while facilitating development, could lead to unintended consequences for the neighbourhood. He highlighted the need to balance growth with preserving the area’s unique character and expressed hesitancy about approving the rezoning without considering the broader implications.

Other council members voiced support for the development, citing the need for increased tourism infrastructure and the potential economic benefits. They argued that the area was originally intended for such uses and that the development aligns with the community’s long-term growth strategy. They also noted that the proposed development fits within the Ski Village district’s goals of enhancing tourism and recreational opportunities.

Cont’d on page 15

Community Events Listing Sponsored by: Event

Date

Time

Place

Community Market

September 5

3:00 pm

Gazebo Park

Community Registration

September 5

3:00 pm

Gazebo Park

Municipal BBQ

September 5

4:00 pm

Gazebo Park

Amazing Teen Race

September 7

All Day

Various Venues

September 20

6:00 pm

Harvest of Memories

Coleman Museum

Contact The Pass Herald if your non-profit organization would like an event listed

passheraldads@gmail.com

10 - CROWSNEST PASS HERALD - Wednesday, September 4, 2024

Response to Smith’s plans for hospitals BRENT MCKAY St. Albert Gazette - LJI

Hospital plan creates redundancy, red tape, and competition for staff, AMA president says The president of the Alberta Medical Association says Premier Danielle Smith’s plan to transfer some Alberta Health Services hospitals to third-party operators would add redundancy, red tape, and bureaucracy to Alberta’s health care system and complicate the ongoing staffing crisis.

At a members-only United Conservative Party town hall event in Drayton Valley on Aug. 17, Smith said her government is prepared to take away AHS’s authority to operate hospitals if it isn’t “performing the services we need them to” and that religious operator Covenant Health may be better suited to run facilities in some areas.

Smith said removing AHS as the operator of some hospitals would incentivize improved delivery of care by creating market competition and “fear” among providers.

AMA president Dr. Paul Parks said such major changes should be based on evidence and not “done on a whim.”

“We’ve been trying to advocate with government for a year, being very, very clear that a lot of the pieces that are critical to stabilize the hospitals right now – our acute care stabilization plan as an example – that all lies with Alberta Health and the government investing and redirecting resources. It would be kind of agnostic as to who

Is the province looking to get a new police force?

NATIONAL POLICE FEDERATION Contributor

National Police Federation Releases Fresh Data on Policing in Alberta The National Police Federation is releasing our first survey results since the independent Alberta police service was announced earlier this year. This fresh public opinion re-search(opens in a new tab) from independent research firm Pollara Strategic Insights, re-affirms support for Members of the Alberta RCMP and highlights low levels of awareness, engagement, and support for a new independent police service.

This survey of 1,200 Albertans, conducted for the NPF by Pollara Strategic Insights in June 2024, reflects that Albertans are highly engaged in issues of public safety in their communi-ties and care about investing in resources for existing services.

While the government is laying the groundwork for an independent police service, the re-search affirms that these new proposed changes to policing remain deeply unpopular, with half of Albertans opposed to a new police service and a quarter unsure. With affordability being a major concern for Albertans across the province, an unwanted and likely costly new duplicative policing service appears to place narrow political interests ahead of the broader public needs.

“This research is a positive reflection of our Members and the critical work they are doing in Alberta,” said Brian Sauvé, President and C.E.O. of the National Police Federation.

“Coupled with surging recruitment and the RCMP’s ability to deploy Members to communities across Alberta, now is the time for government to capitalize on this strong momentum. We encourage the Government of Alberta to listen to their residents and prioritize investment in the highly trained, professional provincial policing service accountable to Albertans: the Alberta RCMP.” Research findings include:

is running the hospitals or who is the service provider, when really the critical bottlenecks and issues are around things like workforce and resources and funding models that are all on the desk of Alberta Health and not the actual provider,” Parks said.

Having multiple service providers would require added operational controls, administration, oversight, and coordinating bodies, Parks explained. “I’m just really worried about the added redundancies: more red tape, more bureaucracy, more administrative structure.”

These issues already exist in Edmonton Zone, Parks said, the only zone in the province with two health authorities – AHS and Covenant Health.

“The lack of coordination and issues between those two health authorities make it such that access metrics and outcomes are worse in Edmonton Zone compared to Calgary Zone, as an example.”

In both AHS and Covenant facilities, the main driver of service disruptions has been staff shortages. Pitting the two providers against each other in a competition for staff would worsen workforce issues, Parks said.

“You really don’t want multiple authorities competing for the same workforce.

You want them to be able to coordinate” and send resources to where they are needed.

Staffing issues have forced the Covenant facilities in Edmonton, the Grey Nuns Community Hospital and Misericordia Community Hospital, to cap the number of patients that are admitted overnight and reduce the number of general internal medicine teams, Parks said. When the hospitals can’t accept more patients, they are redirected to AHS facilities which have to take the “additional transfers and volume and EMS load.”

“Covenant Health has the two hospitals that are struggling the worst for general internal medicine coverage and night-time coverage for access to their hospitals.

But they don’t have to transparently report that, whereas AHS does. And so, people don’t realize that currently our Covenant Health facilities are not necessarily functioning or operating at as high a level as the AHS ones are in the same city.”

Parks said the health professionals working in Covenant facilities are overstretched and working hard to “provide amazing services. But because of the different health authorities and the issues around coordinating, it’s actually the Covenant Health facilities that are struggling the most on those kind of access issues.”

• 84% of respondents agree that there are more important priorities in Alberta right now than changing who polices local communities.

• 87% of respondents agree that before any changes to municipal policing, there needs to be detailed accounting of costs and impacts on service levels.

• 86% of respondents want to retain the RCMP, some with local improvements.

• 77% of respondents, in RCMP-served communities, are satisfied with the policing service they receive.

• 73% of respondents are satisfied with the RCMP’s response to natural disasters such as wildfires and floods.

Consistent with previous waves of research, Albertans proudly support the Alberta RCMP; about 4 out of 5 Albertans in RCMP-served communities are satisfied with their policing. These research findings also come at a time when RCMP recruitment has seen a significant resurgence, with applications exceeding 17,500 for the 2023/24 fiscal year – an 80% increase compared to years previous. The RCMP’s Experienced Police Officer Program has attracted more than 600 officers. In Alberta, K Division is seeing roughly 200 applicants a month – up 52% from last year.

In light of this data, the NPF is urging the Government of Alberta to halt the creation of a new independent police service and focus on strengthening and investing in the current policing services that are already trusted and supported by Albertans.

Any changes to the police service delivery model should be made transparently, with public consultation, and only when there is clear evidence that proposed changes would improve public safety without imposing an unnecessary financial burden on taxpayers.

About the National Police Federation: The National Police Federation (NPF) represents ~20,000 RCMP Members serving across Canada and internationally. We are the largest police union in Canada. The NPF is focused on improving public safety for all Canadians, including our Members by advocating for much-needed investment in the public safety continuum. This includes investments in po-lice resourcing and modern equipment, as well as social programs including health, addiction, and housing supports to enhance safety and liveability in the many communities we serve, large and small, across Canada.

For more information: https://npf-fpn.com/(opens in a new tab) and KeepAlbertaRCMP.ca(opens in a new tab)

If you have a story idea contact Nick at passheraldreporter@gmail.com or Lisa at passherald@shaw.ca

Wednesday, September 4, 2024 - CROWSNEST PASS HERALD - 11

12 - CROWSNEST PASS HERALD - Wednesday, September 4, 2024

Looking Back

BY JOHN KINNEAR

Labour Day Up the Crow It all started with a fault. An enormous geological thrust fault west of the Pass that runs for hundreds of miles north/south. It is named after Meriwether Lewis of the Lewis and Clark expedition fame.

The Lewis Thrust Fault took Paleozoic limestone, formed up to 600 million years ago, and thrust them over top of 220 million year old Mesozoic sandstones and shales. Then millions of years of erosion did the rest. What was left, north of Highway #3, west of Coleman, was the High Rock Range to the west, the eroded Allison Creek Valley in the middle and the magnificent Crowsnest Mountain and Seven Sisters to the east.

Having grown up in the shadow of that erosion resistant limestone parliament, known as the “Crow”, I had often contemplated climbing her. She is not your typical looking Rocky Mountain but there are few that can match her grandeur.

When an invite to “do the Crow” came my way, back in 1991, I found myself in a bit of a quandary. The big question was: “Did I have it in me to keep up with the mountain climbin’, sea kayakin’ hot dogs who had invited me along?” I anguished for about a week about whether my bad knees, sciatic leg and torn rotator cuff were too much of impairment or not.

I wondered did I have the nerve to go up that steep tricky chute halfway up the Crow’s north face. I threw dozens of mental blocks and excuses out but in the end I realized if I didn’t try there was a good chance that a dream of mine might never happen.

This unlikely mountaineer showed up at the trails head on a Labor Day Monday, be-decked in my $19.95 high top sneakers from Pay Less Shoes and sporting a small nylon packsack that cost me a whole $1 at a garage sale. The long trail that leads up from the Allison Creek valley to the toe of the mountain keeps a constant grade and is well worn. At the beginning of the scree at the mountain’s toe is where this whole trip took a very different twist. After much discussion and review of a hiking book’s confusing route description we turned left at a wet weeping rock wall at the face of the mountains first palisade and began our assault. Turns out we should have turned right!

We spent an hour or so scrambling up an incredibly steep chute before we finally realized this couldn’t be the right way. After some precarious scaling up and over steep rock faces this green horn climber determined that we had to head west at the toe of the second palisade above us to find the main trail. Eventually our somewhat un-nerved group connected back to the most commonly used route only to be confronted by a second long steep chute complete with a roped section above the second wet wall area.

The day had started out

with clear blue skies but by now the firmament above the chute had darkened somewhat with rainclouds. A scary memory came back to me then of an uncle of mine who was trapped on top of Turtle Mountain many years ago in a lightning storm.

It was a tricky scramble up that long chute that splits as it merges with the top of the second palisade. As I hoisted myself out of its top I was greeted by two Hutterite women in dresses and sneakers who were on their way down. I thought to myself, “Good grief, if they can do it surely I can.”

The wind picked up some then and I could now smell the rain in the air. A glance upwards revealed a tortuously long winding zigzag trail on mostly talus, and some tiny human dots were visible on the skyline at the summit. The top backside of the Crow looks like an ice cream cone that has been licked hard on one side only and has a surprisingly gentle slope to it compared to what the photos depict.

Part way up that trail fear and anxiety started to work me over again. I couldn’t imagine being on top of this mountain in a wind and rainstorm nor could I picture myself climbing back down a wet limestone chute.

My heart was pounding, my breathing labored and my leg muscles screaming. I was seriously contemplating giving up when a cheery voice from my injury prone past greeted me from above. It was a physiotherapist named Sheila and her young son who were also on their way down. She assured me, as she assures all her candidates of rehab, that I had it in me and that another half hour would put me at the top. Thus inspired I resumed my climb and shortly after experienced, for the first time in my life that marvelous physical resurrection referred to as a “second wind”.

When I finally crested the summit the vista that exploded for 360 degrees around me was overwhelming. Away in the distance to the southeast I could make out the massive outline of the sacred “Chief Mountain” at the east entrance of Waterton Park. Glancing more northeastward, the massive Livingstone Range stood out, running north/south like the Wall of China. That limestone wall, which is broken only by the Pass to the south and the “Gap” to the north, where the Oldman River cuts through it, is an impressive sight. It was through that gap in 1858 that Palliser Expedition explorer Thomas Blakiston looked west and observed and christened a prominent peak after a British ornithologist named Gould.

That peak, the Gould Dome, lay before me that day, a few miles directly north of the Crow.

Scanning more to the west from Gould I was able to observe part of the Wisukitsak Range north of Sparwood and a very familiar canyon that cuts through its south side. I have never failed to be impressed by that canyon’s scale and precipitousness in the 30 years I had passed through it on the way to work at the Line Creek Mine. On that day I found its size quite diminished when placed in the visual context of the expansive vista I was now exploring. Over top of the canyon more to the northwest the glacier on Mt. Joffre that is the source of the Elk River stood out as the only surviving white patch in the Rockies that time of year.

Directly west a whole series of ranges lay in various hues of grey with the occasional high peaks, like Fisher or Empire State, rising above the rest in prominence. In the Front Range, directly below me I could see Window Mountain Lake but being perpendicular to Window Mountain, it was not visible. To the south the Pass lay below me with the sulphur plant, Crowsnest Lakes and the towns of Coleman and Blairmore spread out like a miniature display. The amazing Flathead Range to the south rose up from the val-ley and right to left I counted them, Sentry, Chinook, McLaren, Parrish and Coulthard.

There were sporadic curtains of rain drifting over top of Turtle Mountain and slowly moving towards us then, so our stay at the surprisingly small summit was short. Before we headed back down to that dreaded upper chute I glassed my old hometown of Coleman and could just make out the house where I grew up. A story came to mind then about my father’s first years in Canada after emigrating from Scotland. For a time they lived in the Pass and then moved to Calgary where dad went to grade school at St. George’s. He recounted to me a story one day about an arrogant Prussian art teacher he had in 1929.

His last name was Von Valkenberg and one day he had instructed his class to draw “Prevent Forest Fire” posters with some prominent scenery, such as a mountain they had seen, on them. On observing my father’s sketch of the Crow he exclaimed: “Where did you ever see a mountain shaped like that?” and promptly drew a big X through it and exclaimed, “Utter trash”.

I remember thinking then to myself, “ I’ll tell you where he saw it Mr. Von Valkenberg. Right smack dab in the middle of the beautiful Crowsnest Pass, standing guard over us with magnificent isolated parliamentary splendor.”

John Kinnear photos

Photos left to right, top to bottom: - Approach to the first palisade - The WRONG way up - The amazingly small top of the Crow - Some creative advertising 88 years ago atop the Crow. Joe Michalsky on the left - View of the second chute and trail to the top

Wednesday, September 4, 2024 - CROWSNEST PASS HERALD - 13

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Update on upgrades to downtown Bellevue NICHOLAS L.M. ALLEN Pass Herald Reporter

Updates on Bellevue Forcemain and Frank Wastewater Treatment Plant Phase 2 Colton Stiles, a senior project manager and wastewater engineer with Stantec, provided a comprehensive update on recent work related to the Bellevue Forcemain and Phase 2 conceptual design of the Frank Wastewater Treatment Plant. Speaking at a recent council meeting, Stiles detailed the dual-facility wastewater treatment infrastructure that currently serves the area, with the Frank Wastewater Treatment Plant handling approximately 80 per cent of the region’s wastewater, while the Bellevue Sewage Treatment Lagoons manage the remaining 20 per cent.

Stiles began, “I appreciate the time today to discuss the work we’ve recently completed for your wastewater utility. The Frank Wastewater TreatIn loving memory of ment Plant services the majority of your popuOctober 17, 1935 ~ lation and was recently September 5, 2016 upgraded with significant capital works.”

Our husband, father, He explained that the grandfather and papa Bellevue lagoons, which process wastewater from Hillcrest and Bellevue, Death changes everything are approaching the end of their operational life Time changes nothing. and require either subWe still miss the sound of your voice, all stantial upgrades or an your advice, your visits and phone calls. alternative capital investWe miss you as much today as we did the ment to extend their functionality. day you passed away.

The recent work by Stantec involved creating All our love a conceptual design for a lift station and forcemain Mary, Dale and Diane to transfer flows from the Melisa, Caleb (Kaylee) and Ryker (Paisley) Bellevue lagoons to the

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Frank plant. This would facilitate the decommissioning of the lagoons and their remediation. Stiles elaborated, “We evaluated the impacts of transferring flows to the Frank plant, including further expansion requirements and potential future upgrades.”

Three alignment options for the forcemain were explored: 1. Alignment Option One: This route proposed running the forcemain through Bellevue, avoiding most of the Frank slide site. However, Stiles noted, “Engaging with the province revealed that while this option bypassed much of the slide site, it did not avoid it entirely. Furthermore, this option was found to be significantly more expensive and had increased operation and maintenance costs.”

2. Alignment Option Two: This alignment followed the Highway 3 corridor, which offered potential cost savings if paired with future Highway 320 projects.

Stiles said, “The main advantage here was the chance to integrate the project with the Highway 320 development, but it also had significant impacts on local residents and would be cost-effective only if paired with that highway project.”

3. Alignment Option Three: This route used the service road along the backside of the Frank slide site. Stiles explained, “This option faced major constructability challenges due to boulders. We evaluated various construction methods, including open-cutting and directional drilling. Although this option presented significant construction risks, it also allowed for possible road improvements.”

Stiles provided a cost comparison for the alignment options, ranging from $11 million to $16 million. He emphasized, “Options two and three were cost-competitive, with option three offering benefits like potential road improvements but facing higher construction risks.”

The proposed Bellevue lift station would handle wastewater flows from the lagoons and is estimated to cost around $6 million. Stiles outlined, “The lift station will include four pumps, two wet wells, and odor control to minimize impacts on local residents. Emergency power generation and staff access provisions are also part of the design.”

The combined cost of the forcemain and lift station is projected to be between $18 million and $20 million. Stiles highlighted, “If the Bellevue lagoons are decommissioned and flows redirected to the Frank plant, there would likely be a need for further expansions and upgrades at the Frank facility, with costs potentially exceeding $12.5 million.”

Addressing the need for ongoing monitoring, Stiles noted, “It’s crucial to continue monitoring flows, population projections, and key operational parameters.

Changes in these factors, particularly inflow and infiltration reductions, could significantly impact the timing and scope of future upgrades.”

During the discussion, several questions were raised. One question inquired about the lifespan of the Bellevue lagoons. Stiles responded that, given recent upgrades, the lagoons could remain viable for the short to medium term but might need further investment to extend their lifespan. Another question concerned the feasibility of building a new treatment facility versus upgrading existing ones.

Stiles acknowledged the higher initial costs of new facilities but noted potential long-term benefits in terms of operational efficiency and cost savings.

Stiles concluded the presentation by emphasizing the importance of pairing the forcemain project with future highway developments to achieve significant cost savings. “Keeping an eye on the Highway 3 twinning project could provide opportunities for cost-effective implementation of the forcemain,” he said.

Wednesday, September 4, 2024 - CROWSNEST PASS HERALD - 15

Public hearing gets heated cont’d from page 9 Opposition to the rezoning was also voiced, with some council members questioning the suitability of the site for such a development. They argued that the land, previously maintained as green space, should remain untouched, and expressed concerns about the potential impact on local traffic and the character of the neighbourhood.

Councillor Dean Ward echoed sentiments about the need for growth, emphasizing that the community’s future depends on such developments. He acknowledged the challenges of balancing growth with maintaining the quality of life for current residents and stressed the importance of progressive development.

The council passed the bylaw with a vote of four to three, with Mayor Blair Painter, Councillor Dave Filipuzi, Councillor Lisa Sygutek and Councillor Ward voting in favour and Councillors Vicki Kubik, Doreen Glavin and Girhiny voting against the bylaw.

More details and all written submissions can be found on the municipality’s website under meeting packages and minutes.

John Gamble 1930 ~ 2023 GAMBLE, John (“Jack”, ”Pa”) William -1930-2023. With great sorrow, John’s family wish to announce his passing on July 27, 2023 at the age of 92 surrounded by his loved ones after a long, brave battle with illness.

John is survived by his 3 daughters and their families, Leslie Gamble and Michael Lowen, Megan, Bailey and Matthew, Kyle; Leanne and Rob Huot, Danielle and Ali, Jordan and Tessa and Sunny; Meridi and Craig Webber, Delaney, Cole and Oluchi; and his sisters, Ruth Walker and Joyce Mytz, as well as many nieces and nephews and their families.

John was predeceased by his beloved wife and son, Grace, and Craig Gamble, his mother, and father, Mabel and Chester Gamble and his sisters, Eileen Walker and Shirley Moreau. John grew up on a farm near Mannville Alberta.

At the age of 15, he left home to work in the Viking-Kinsella gas fields

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where he lived in camps in the bush and worked six days a week laying pipeline. As a young adult, he, as well as many of the kids from the farm would meet at the Rainbow Ballroom in Edmonton to enjoy each Advertise other‘s company and dance to the country and western music. This is where he met the love of his life, Grace Solowan. He was quickly taken by more than just her beauty and she was smitten with his charm as they Province-wide with a combined visited and danced the night away. Pa always enjoyed music so much, and to his delight, he soon discovered circulation of over 650,000 for only...

Grace could sing every country song, and was a talented, self taught guitar player and artist. They got married in 1953, and in 1957 their first child, Craig, was born. John went to work for the city of Edmonton where he plus GST Ask about the Value Ad Network worked for 35 years as a power engineer. It was at this time, John realized the important value of education, Alberta Weekly Newspapers Association which was also demonstrated by his mother being a passionate school teacher. John was very determined toll free 1-800-282-6903 x225 and resilient and over the years, pursued further education with many night school courses to advance his email classifieds@awna.com or visit your community newspaper career as he rose to the pressures of providing for his expanding family now with the twins, Leslie and Leanne, being born in 1960. Their family became complete with the arrival of their fourth child, Meridi in 1969.

Grace And Jack enjoyed the simple pleasures in life: nature, visiting with loved ones, playing guitar and singing with family and friends, as well as travelling mostly in a decked out van. Pa always loved his vans and 3.75” wide version eventually became known as “the van man with a plan”. Pa effortlessly made friends wherever his travels NOTICE TOREACH CREDITORS AND CLAIMANTS BROAD at an AFFORDABLE PRICE took him as people were drawn to his down to earth warmth, his positivity, his sense of humour, and his sincerely kind and friendly nature. He was often the life of the party, telling jokes, sharing stories, enjoying Estate of JEAN MIYEKO ARMSTRONG, who died on music and singing, “I’m my own grandpa,” which he miraculously could always remember all of the words MAR 9, 2024. to. Pa enjoyed planning projects and dreaming of the future, while simultaneously living in the moment with a combined circulation of plus GST over 650,000 for only... and enjoying the simple pleasures in life, like stopping to smell the roses, or in fact the wildflowers, along If you have a claim against this estate, you must file your Ask about the the way as he enjoyed his daily hikes in the wilderness of Crowsnest Pass. Pa was very active with his mind claim by SEPT 24, 2024 Value Ad Network and body and he enjoyed planting his garden and sitting back, relaxing, and enjoying it with the bees and Alberta Weekly Newspapers Association hummingbirds while it bloomed. He always ensured he got fresh air and physical activity every day, going toll free 1-800-282-6903 x225 with OGILVIE LLP email classifieds@awna.com for many walks in the countryside. Pa had an incredibly strong work ethic, which he instilled in his family. He #1200, 1015 – 4 Street SW or visit your community newspaper always had a notebook, a pen and a project he was planning and dreaming about. Pa worked so hard and Calgary, Alberta T2R 1J4 remained devoted to his family’s well-being throughout his entire life. He was very passionate about nature Attn: ANGELA L. YEE-HAMSHAW and the Earth’s preservation and he was an animal whisperer sharing a special connection with many animals If you do not file by the date above, the estate property especially the family’s horses, cats, and dogs that all adored him. Although Pa was an environmentalist that can lawfully be distributed without regard to any claim strived to leave a minimal environmental footprint, his existence on this Earth actually had an enormous you may have. impact on those who knew him through the support and love he shared so readily. Pa believed in lifelong learning, and had a vast knowledge, a sharp mind, a strong passion and activism in earth conservation, and a keen interest in politics, history, and world events. In fact, he could have an intelligent conversation on almost any topic. Pa loved his many years spent in the Crowsnest Pass, where he truly felt at home, breathing the mountain air, enjoying the company of good friends, being immersed in nature, soaking up the scenery, and marvelling at each beautiful sunrise and sunset. Pa had a real spark for life and always strived to live in the moment, appreciating the beauty and the little things in life which he called “joy units”. He was an eternal optimist with a positive attitude that was infectious to those around him. He lived by the idea that the happiest and most successful people don’t always have the best situations, but they learn to make the best of the situation they have, and he worked hard to always look at the bright side. He enthusiastically shared this advice readily with those he loved. John had such a positive impact on all those who were lucky enough to cross his path, and those who he loved in his long and meaningful life.

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He will forever be missed by his family, who loved him so dearly, and treasured every moment with him, and his many friends he made along his journey. Pa, we will cherish all the beautiful memories we’ve shared and will keep them locked in our hearts forever.

16 - CROWSNEST PASS HERALD - Wednesday, September 4, 2024

Stranded climbers spend two nights on mountain JESSICA LEE Rocky Mountain Outlook - LJI A group of climbers spent two chilly nights at about 9,500 feet on the northwest face of Mount Birdwood in Kananaskis Country over the weekend after their rope became stuck on descent.

The two climbers began their trek Friday (Aug. 23) and summitted the peak in Spray Valley Provincial Park but were forced to spend that night on the side of the mountain with just the clothes on their backs.

“They were rappelling and during the rappel, their ropes became stuck. It was also getting fairly late at the time, so it was fairly dark, and the group just made the decision to sit tight,” said Kananaskis Mountain Rescue specialist Mike Koppang.

Bad weather had also started to roll in overhead in the form of rain, lightning, extreme winds, as well as snow and freezing temperatures.

In nearby Bow Valley Provincial Park, the closest weather station located at a much lower 4,200 feet recorded 6.4 millimetres of precipitation and wind speeds up to 20 km/h overnight – felt more severely in higher, exposed terrain.

“That was a fairly intense storm and left them quite cold, with a bit of snow on them, and fairly strong winds,” said Koppang, who responded to the incident with a rescue team the following day.

Kananaskis Mountain Rescue was alerted via a satellite device and the climbers fortunately had one bar of cell service high up on the mountain to also notify friends of exactly what happened.

A response that was initiated Saturday morning (Aug. 24) with assistance from Alpine Helicopters was hindered by cloud cover and wind.

“We couldn’t see where the people were, but we knew what area they were in based on a GPS location off their phone,” said Koppang. “We weren’t able to access them and because of the winds, we weren’t able to land close.”

What was a planned rescue via heli-sling quickly changed to a climb.

Koppang and another rescuer were dropped in over the Burstall Pass region.

“We were able to ascend the ridge through technical terrain to reach the people that were still on their rope,” he said. “That happened at about 4 o’clock with fairly strong winds and light snow while we were climbing.”

The two climbers were lowered to a bigger ledge and treated for exposure from spending the night mostly unprotected from the elements.

“They were tired, but it was becoming clear we weren’t going to make it off the mountain that night, so we decided to shelter in place for the evening in a bothy bag,” said Koppang.

A bothy bag is a portable emergency shelter used in hikes and mountain expeditions to provide protection against the elements.

“We did have a fairly good shelter that was able to get all four of us inside, and everyone sat on their backpacks. We had enough clothes to keep ourselves warm and extra clothes to give to the other people to get them to a more adequate temperature. But, bottom line, it’s not pleasant,” said Koppang of spending the night mountainside in harsh conditions.

“You’re sitting on a backpack under a tarp in very significant winds and it’s loud. You don’t really get much sleep. You kind of go through all the different stories you can and then some of them, you go through two or three times just to keep yourself entertained … You just kind of work together as a group to make the night go as quickly as you can.”

The next morning, the group was transported off the ridge via heli-sling and back towards Burstall Pass, where they were able to enter the aircraft and then dropped off at the Burstall Pass parking lot.

The two climbers were subsequently checked over by Alberta Health Services EMS. Koppang said the incident serves as a reminder to always prepare for something to go wrong when out in the mountains. This includes bringing adequate equipment, including warm clothing, a satellite communication device, and checking the weather forecast.

He said it’s also important to ensure an objective – be it a hike, scramble, climb, or anything else – is within your skill level. And if the weather turns or conditions change, turn around.

“There are tons of different ways we can get into the mountains and enjoy them.

So that’s kind of the big takeaway there – the mountains are going to be there for a long time. Don’t be scared to turn around and leave that mountain for another day.

If you don’t think you’re gonna be able to get down safely or you see a bad storm coming, it’ll always be there the next day.”

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